Shiv Sena calls off threats to disrupt tour a few hours before arrival, following meetings with Home Minister Advani. In his address on the eve of Indian Republic Day, Indian President K. R. Narayanan pleads for communal harmony. US delegation led by Strobe Talbott holds 3 days of talks in Delhi February 2. US delegation holds talks in Islamabad. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif interviewed by Shekhar Gupta, published on Feb 3 in the Indian Express.
Dates remain undecided.
Prime Minister Vajpayee decided to accept Prime Minister Sharif's invitation. On Kashmir solidarity day, Prime Minister Sharif visits the line of control, affirms solidarity with the Kashmiri cause. Announcement that the foreign secretaries of Pakistan and India will meet in New Delhi for three days of talks on February 18-20. Reports that Prime Minister Vajpayee will make his trip on February 20, and the consequent postponement of foreign secretary talks, confirmed by Pakistani officials on February 11. Bihar chief minister dismissed and President's rule imposed.