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Vajpayee arrives in New York

NEW YORK, Sept 7 (PTI) — The Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, arrived here today after a long and gruelling journey dismissing recent speculation about his health.

“I am feeling fine,” responded Mr Vajpayee laughing away questions from accompanying reporters as the special Air India aircraft touched down at JFK International Airport here.

As he overflew Pakistan, Mr Vajpayee sent the customary message of greetings to the country’s military ruler from his aircraft conveying his best wishes for the progress and well-being of the people of Pakistan.

Mr Vajpayee’s message to the leaders of other countries he overflew mentioned the offices they held.

General Musharraf is already in New York but a meeting between the two is unlikely.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to address the Millennium Summit of the UN tomorrow where he will outline the hopes of the people of India and their vision for a world order.

Asked if he would address the UN summit standing in view of his knee problem, he responded, “Certainly. I will deliver my speech standing.”

The Prime Minister arrived in New York after a four-hour stopover in Zurich.

Mr Vajpayee, who is on a 13-day visit to the USA, will be flying to Washington on September 13 where, apart from holding bilateral talks with President Bill Clinton, he will also address the US Congress.

His visit, first by an Indian Prime Minister in six years, assumes political significance as it is widely expected to forge closer bilateral economic ties with focus on infrastructure development, information technology and energy sectors.

New Delhi’s concerns over Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism, nuclear issues and UN reforms are likely to figure high on the agenda during his meeting with Mr Clinton on September 15.

Mr Vajpayee will have wide-ranging discussions with Mr Clinton and utilise the opportunity to meet US presidential candidates Al Gore (Democrat) and George Bush (Republican).

Mr Vajpayee will keep his date with the US business community when he attends the US-India business summit organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry in New York.