Open Wagah border for trade, says Assocham

Encouraged by the successful recent talks between India and Pakistan foreign ministers, Assocham has said the two neighbours should now focus attention on economic and trade issues, including the opening of the Wagah border.

In a statement released here, Mahendra K Sanghi, president of Assocham, suggested, "The Pakistani government should be persuaded to open the Wagah border for commercial cargoes between the two countries. It should permit free imports of all products of Indian origin, on the lines of the agreements with the United Arab Emirates and Singapore. Besides, efforts be made to establish direct shipping links between India and Pakistan."

"India and Pakistan should grant business visas to visiting trade delegations on the recommendations of the leading chambers of commerce and industry associations," Sanghi said.

The Chamber wants restrictions on visiting business delegations, both in Pakistan and India, should go.

Police verification should be minimal, it said.