Bilateral relations: Indian diplomat stresses on strengthening ties

Says true trade potential remains untapped between neighbours.

ISLAMABAD: Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan has stressed the need for India and Pakistan to accelerate efforts that would enhance bilateral trade.

He said this while addressing a gathering of the business community at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI).

Raghavan said that there is an increasing realisation among traders that focus needs to be placed on improving the economy of both countries.

He said that it is a common trait for neighbouring countries to remain at odds with each other, but improved bilateral ties would transform relations between India and Pakistan.

He informed the audience that the Indian prime minister has urged better relations with all border sharing nations. According to Raghavan, “better relations can be achieved if we focus more on positive aspects, instead of dwelling on history.”

He said tourism promotion is a swift way for employment generation and in this context India has signed a protocol of tourism with Pakistan to promote bilateral tourism. “Efforts are afoot to address issues including Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) between the two countries.”

“We have planned to hold regular video conferences and smaller networking sessions with Pakistan chambers.”

Additionally, Raghavan assured his efforts to play a facilitative role in granting of visas to Pakistani businessmen.

Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) Chief Executive, SM Munir, said that the recent Pakistan Lifestyle Expo in India received a welcome response and for that he thanked the Indian authorities for their support.

Munir suggested that Pakistan and India should exploit their geostrategic and add more trade routes.

He urged for mobile roaming services and establishing bank branches in both countries. Additionally, Munir emphasised that India should revise its visa policy and grant it for all cities.

ICCI President Shaban Khalid said the current bilateral trade between India and Pakistan of $3 billion is much below the desired level.

“More trade is taking place via third channels and the countries should focus on eradicating these.”

Khalid said that India and Pakistan should establish direct air links and open more road links to improve relations.

“Both nations need to improve trade infrastructure and address all NTBs to facilitate business.” He vowed to work with Indian HC for bringing both countries even closer in economic relations.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 30^th, 2014.

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