Look beyond reciprocity from Pakistan: Sinha

Former Finance and External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha on Monday suggested that India promote an asymmetrical relationship with Pakistan and not insist on parity to build confidence in the neighbouring country.

"If Pakistan has 400-500 goods, which are on the restricted list, that is no reason for India not to permit every item from Pakistan. If Pakistan is not giving permission for Indian bank branches to open in Pakistan, then also there is no reason why we should not permit Pakistan banks to start operation in India," Sinha said at a seminar on India-Pakistan trade.

He said unless India does it, it will not be able to instil confidence in Pakistan, that is necessary in order to promote good relationship.