Krishna defends denial of VISA to Musharraf

"Time is not conducive at this point of time to grant visa to the former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf. The government, after weighing all options and taking into consideration various issues, took a decision to deny the visa", External Affairs Minister S M Krishna told reporters here.

Krishna, on a private visit to his home district, however, refused to be drawn into further discussion on the issue.

Musharraf, who wanted to visit India to attend a seminar this weekend, was not given visa with official sources stating the decision was taken after the Home Ministry had expressed reservations over his visit due to his recent anti-India statements.

The government, according to the sources, also did not want convergence of elements opposed to the present government in Pakistan on Indian soil for their activities.

Musharraf, living in self-exile in Britain, was invited to attend a seminar by the Young Presidents Organisation, an international outfit involving influential business leaders in which he was among the guest speakers.

Asked about U.S. President Barack Ombama's recent visit to India, Krishna said it has helped the country on various issues including its on-going effort to get a permanent seat in UNSC.

He noted the support Obama extended for India's bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat.