 "Develop Zero-Point Border Market at Wagha-Attari border: Sahney")
India and Pakistan should develop a Zero Point Border Market at the Wagha-Attari border where businessmen from both the sides would meet without any visa requirements, SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry today said.
The point which would have state-of-art infrastructure and facilities will provide businessmen an opportunity to meet each other and discuss without any visa requirement as it will be built in a "no man's land" area, Saarc Chamber of Commerce & Industry President, Vikramjit Singh Sahney, said in a statement.
He proposed to set up conference rooms, display centers and one-window operation facilities at the point.
Also Read
It would help in cementing business relationships," he said adding Pakistan must announce non-discriminatory access for Indian goods and services.
Despite the fact that both the countries signed a liberalised visa agreement last year, businessmen are still facing problems.
"Trade stability between India and Pakistan needs delinking of economic cooperation process from political compulsions," Sahney said.
He said, "The governments of India and Pakistan to seriously implement the idea of developing a Zero Point Border Market at the border".
It would allow the businessmen from both the countries to meet without any visa requirements.
He asked the concerned authorities to take immediate action in this regard.
"If this proposal was implemented then it would go a long way in expanding bilateral trade between the two countries, which was currently estimated around $ 2.5 billion only which is far below the potential available," he added.
He also said delay in issuance of visa to genuine businessmen and scarce flight connections are hindrance in realising the true benefits of trade liberalisation.