Pakistan and India agreed on Thursday to encourage local commanders of their border security forces to resolve minor issues related to border management in their frequent flag meetings.
The agreement came at the conclusion of a biannual meeting of the border guarding forces of the two countries here on Thursday. The Pakistani delegation was led by Punjab Rangers Director General Maj Gen Umar Farooq Burki and the Indian team by Border Security Force Director General K.K. Sharma.
Matters pertaining to border management, indiscriminate cross-border firing, smuggling and unintentional border crossing by people of both sides were discussed in the meeting.
It expanded upon the issue of expediting repatriation of those who cross the border inadvertently and agreed to ensure their safe return.
Capitalising on the decreasing trend of ceasefire violations along the working boundary, the two sides showed willingness to enhance contact at different levels to minimise the chances of misunderstanding.
Issues relating to defence construction close to the working boundary and the international border were also discussed to find out amicable solutions and address mutual concerns.
The two sides resolved to continue sharing information on cross-border smuggling of narcotics and contraband and decided to take appropriate measures to bring the illegal activity to an end.
They pledged to continue endeavours to reduce friction and create an environment for betterment and prosperity of the people of the two countries.
The next meeting will be held in the first quarter of 2017 in India.
Representatives of the interior ministry, Pakistan Rangers, Sindh, Anti-Narcotics Force and Survey of Pakistan also attend the meeting.
According to a spokesman for Rangers, the talks are a regular feature and are held alternately in Pakistan and India.
“The dialogue process provides an opportunity to discuss and resolve border management issues at bilateral level and strengthens confidence between the two border guarding forces,” he said.
