Pakistan and India took a step toward possible reconciliation as Pakistan's military ruler formally accepted India's offer of peace talks.
In a letter to Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, Gen. Pervez Musharraf said, "We wish to see a stable and prosperous India at peace with its neighbors."
Kashmir remains the focus of violence that included an assassination attempt Tuesday against the son of the top elected official in the Indian-ruled portion of Kashmir. Musharraf's spokesman said Pakistan would also be willing to discuss nuclear arms. It was not clear when the talks would take place.
