[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 35, Number 27 (Monday, July 12, 1999)]
[Page 1278]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Joint Statement With Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan

July 4, 1999

    President Clinton and Prime Minister Sharif share the view that the 
current fighting in the Kargil region of Kashmir is dangerous and 
contains the seeds of a wider conflict. They also agreed that it was 
vital for the peace of South Asia that the Line of Control in Kashmir be 
respected by both parties, in accordance with their 1972 Simla Accord. 
It was agreed between the President and the Prime Minister that concrete 
steps will be taken for the restoration of the line of control in 
accordance with the Simla Agreement. The President urged an immediate 
cessation of the hostilities once these steps are taken. The Prime 
Minister and President agreed that the bilateral dialogue begun in 
Lahore in February provides the best forum for resolving all issues 
dividing India and Pakistan, including Kashmir. The President said he 
would take a personal interest in encouraging an expeditious resumption 
and intensification of those bilateral efforts, once the sanctity of the 
Line of Control has been fully restored. The President reaffirmed his 
intent to pay an early visit to South Asia.

Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of 
this joint statement.