India and Pakistan today reiterated its commitment to fight terrorism. Both countries also agreed to adopt additional measures for cross border trade and travel. In a joint press conference External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said he held useful discussion with his Pakistani counterpart Hina Rabbani Khar in an atmosphere of reality and positive vibrations. Earlier India had strongly advocated for a terror free South Asia for peace and development of the region. Mr S M Krishna said that he is looking forward to forging a peaceful and cooperative relationship between India and Pakistan. In his welcome remarks at the beginning of India Pakistan foreign ministers talks in New Delhi today, Mr Krishna asserted that India wants a stable, peaceful and prosperous Pakistan and wished the people of Pakistan well. He said that the challenges and aspirations of the people of the two countries are similar and visualized a resurgent South Asia marching towards the path of development. The External Affairs Minister said that a terror free and harmonious atmosphere is essential for this. Mr. Krishna complimented his Pakistani counterpart Hina Rabbani Khar on her appointment and extended warm greetings to her and the delegation. In her remarks, the Pakistan Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said that she looks forward to a positive relationship and genuine engagements with India. Describing India and Pakistan as important players in the region Ms Khar said that she is looking forward to a cooperative relationship with India. The Pakistan Foreign Minister called on the senior BJP leader L.K. Advani this morning and is expected to meet Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and the leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Mrs. Sushma Swaraj during her stay in the national capital. AIR correspondent quoting government sources said that the Foreign Secretaries of the two countries who held talks yesterday finalised some confidence building measures designed to expand cross LoC travel and trade in Jammu and Kashmir. They also focussed on terrorism including progress in Pakistan in the probe into 2008 Mumbai attack and ISI's links with Kashmiri separatists. India is understood to have handed over the revised list of most wanted 48 fugitives to Pakistan. To create a conducive atmosphere for talks, New Delhi had yesterday released 91 Pakistani fishermen. They were handed over to Pakistani rangers at the Attari border near Amritsar.
News On AIR | July 27, 2011 1:59 PM
India, Pakistan reiterate commitment to fight terror