New York:
Preparations of a possible bilateral meeting between the Indian and Pakistani foreign minister unravelled after a series of fast paced developments at the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA).
First, Pakistan stepped up its offensive over Kashmir raking up the issue at the floor of the UNGA
Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi had remarked on giving the Kashmiri people the right to "self-determination through plebiscite".
Immediately, the Indian External Affairs Minister hit back with a tough yet calibrated response.
"Pakistan cannot impart lessons to us on democracy and human rights," said SM Krishna
At the end of the day, both sides were united on one issue - that the atmosphere was lacking for a productive bilateral meeting.
India though, reiterating its stand that there is no alternative to dialogue, invited the Pakistani Foreign minister to attend the Commonwealth Games to be held in Delhi..
"Foreign Minister Qureshi is welcome to come and witness at least some of the games. At least it will give us a chance to continue the dialogue," added SM Krishna
But despite the war of words, India left the door on dialogues open by extending an invitation to the CWG. The onus now lies on Islamabad to prove that it is serious about taking the talks forward.