Marines issue: Khurshid meets PM, indicates action against envoy

Says matter will be treated with greatest urgency, will work in coordination with the SC

As speculation grew about India's next move on the Italian marines issue, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid today met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after which he indicated action will be taken against the Italian Ambassador here.

Khurshid said everything will be done to ensure that "dignity and primacy" of India in this matter is preserved after Italy reneged on its assurance given to the Supreme Court.

"We will comply with the Supreme Court order on the Italian marines issue. It is in the best interest of our country and in the best interest of our judicial system," he said.

Khurshid met the Prime Minister at his residence against the backdrop of Italy's refusal to send back the two marines to face trial on charges of killing of two fishermen off Kerala coast last year.

Asked by reporters if the Government will take action against Ambassador Daniele Mancini, Khurshid said, "We will. As we take steps we will let you know. We have to take steps and there is no question that we won't take steps."

Khurshid said government will have to work in coordination with whatever happens in the Supreme Court and it will need to factor that into any decisions taken.

"We need to keep the court informed about all decisions," he said, adding, "the matter will be treated with greatest urgency."

The minister gave his assessment of the diplomatic standoff between India and Italy even as Attorney General (AG) G E Vahanvati brought to the Supreme Court's notice that the Republic of Italy has reneged on its assurance given to the apex court.

Khurshid earlier said that the Attorney General has been asked to bring to the notice of the Apex Court the developments concerning Italy's refusal to send back the marines.

"Everything that is necessary to ensure that the dignity and primacy of India in this matter will be preserved, I can assure you that" he said.

Asked whether the Italian Ambassador will be sent back, Khurshid said, "I can't give any answers today."

"We have to factor in a lot of issues and aspirations and feelings of our own people are of paramount...And which will be kept in mind," Khurshid said, and referred to concern expressed by the Prime Minister on the matter in Parliament yesterday.