US renews call for release
WASHINGTON- The US State Department on Saturday reiterated its call for the “immediate and unconditional release” of Daniel Pearl, The Wall Street Journal reporter abducted in Pakistan.
“We hope for Mr Pearl’s immediate and unconditional release,” according to State Department spokesman Frederick Jones. He added that the kidnappers’ cause is “not being forwarded by holding him hostage … Their cause will not be advanced by holding a journalist.”
VAJPAYEE: Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee on Saturday rubbished suggestions by Pakistan that there was an Indian angle to American journalist Daniel Pearl’s kidnapping, saying the truth would be out soon, adds Jawed Naqvi from New Delhi.
Vajpayee’s remarks during a public function at his New Delhi residence coincided with reports that Indian sleuths had foiled a plot by militants linked to Chechen rebels to kidnap a senior US Naval officer during a visit to Mumbai. The visit has been called off.
“Various allegations are being levelled. But the truth has not yet been found out,” Vajpayee said.
Vajpayee condemned the kidnapping of the US journalist saying it as an act against humanity. “It is extremely shocking and surprising that someone should kidnap a reporter. Journalists do their work for the entire humankind,” Vajpayee said.
Source: Dawn
Date:2/3/2002
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