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Bush urges end to Kashmir conflict

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ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (CNN) -- Saying Pakistan and India have "a historic opportunity to work toward lasting peace," U.S. President George W. Bush on Saturday called on leaders of both nations "to step up and lead" to resolve the tough issue of Kashmir.

Bush said Musharraf and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh have signaled a new willingness to work on Kashmir, the disputed territory that has been the cause of two of the three wars India and Pakistan have fought since independence in 1947. Bush met with Singh earlier this week.

"The best way for Kashmir to be resolved is for leaders of both countries to step up and lead," Bush said at a joint news conference with Musharraf.

"That's exactly what President Musharraf has done, and that's what Prime Minister Singh assured me he wants to do -- and that is to resolve this situation."

Bush said both of the nuclear powers have moved toward confidence-building measures and the United States will remain active in encouraging both sides to come together.

"The atmosphere is changing," Bush said. "Pakistan and India now have a historic opportunity to work toward lasting peace. ... I encourage all sides to continue to make progress on important issues, including Kashmir."

Musharraf thanked Bush for his interest "toward resolution of disputes in the region, to bring peace into the region, and a special reference to the resolution of the Kashmir dispute."

"I did request the president to remain involved in facilitating the resolution of all disputes, including obviously the Kashmir dispute," Musharraf said.

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