The Commerce Minister level talks between India and Pakistan will begin in Islamabad today.

While Indian side will be led by Commerce Minister Anand Sharma, his Pakistan counterpart Makhdoom Amin Fahim will lead the Pakistani side. Mr. Sharma will hold talks with his Pakistan counterpart on all issues to enhance trade between the two countries.

Both Ministers will also jointly inspect the progress on the construction of second gate of the integrated check post at Wagah border. Besides meeting Pak Prime Minister, Yusuf Raza Gillani and President Asif Ali Zardari, Mr Sharma will also address the 6th SAFTA Ministerial Council meeting in Islamabad on Thursday. Mr. Shama is accompanied by a high level delegation comprising 120 business leaders.

Briefing reporters in New Delhi yesterday, he expressed hope that his visit to Pakistan will help in creating a positive environment for enhanced bilateral trade. Mr Sharma said, fully normalising relationship with Pakistan and elevating it to a higher level will contribute substantially to building trust and confidence between the two neighbours and for increased economic engagements within the SAARC region.