India, Pak agree on truck service to boost trade

India and Pakistan agreed to allow cross-border cargo truck services, aimed at boosting trade between the nuclear-armed neighbours, as part of moves to improve ties that began in 2003.

"Trucks from one side would be allowed to go to the designated points on the other side" from the Attari-Wagah border crossing starting October 1, according to a joint statement released today by Pakistan's foreign ministry in the capital Islamabad.

India and Pakistan have sought to enhance economic cooperation to find a solution to the six-decade-old conflict that has hindered growth in the region. Ties began improving in April 2003 and led to the restoration of diplomatic, sporting and transportation links.

The agreement, which came after a meeting between the officials of the two countries yesterday, will help improve transport of goods, which are now brought to the border and carried across by porters to trucks waiting on the other side.