Kasuri laments lack of progress in talks

In an interview with AFP, he called for a "confidence-building measure" on the disputed province of Kashmir and highlighted increasing business contacts between the two countries.

"The fact that we're talking is progress, but in concrete terms we are not making much progress, not just on Kashmir but even on other issues," he added on the margins of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

"The leadership in both countries should be mindful of this fact," and must not disappoint strong peace lobbies.

"Businessmen on both sides have shown a marked inclination for improvement of relations and also there have been sporting contacts, which have helped the atmosphere," he went on.

"The people to people contact has been there. We should approach this issue with greater seriousness."