LAHORE: The bi-annual meeting between Pakistan Rangers and Border Security Force (India) was held from July 25 to 28, at the Pakistan Rangers (Punjab) Headquarters in Lahore.
Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Pakistan Rangers (Sindh), Anti-Narcotics Force and Survey of Pakistan also attended the meeting. These talks are a regular feature and are held alternately in Pakistan and India.
The dialogue process provides an opportunity not only to discuss and resolve the border management issues at bilateral level but also strengthen the mutual confidence between the two border guarding forces.
The dialogues were held in a congenial and accommodating atmosphere. In order to continue the endeavours revived in the last bi-annual meeting held in 2015, it was mutually decided to seek solution of irksome issues through enhanced contact and communication at all levels.
Both the sides agreed to encourage local commanders to resolve the minor issues related to the border management by frequent flag meetings. The forum also dilated upon the issue of expediting repatriation of inadvertent border crossers and mutually agreed to ensure their safe return. The forum also acknowledged the concerted efforts put in by both the forces to check cross border smuggling of narcotics and contrabands.
Both the sides showed further resolve to continue information sharing on this very important aspect and take all appropriate measures to end this illegal activity, plaguing the people of two countries. While capitalising on already decreasing trend of cease fire violations along working boundary, both sides showed willingness to enhance contact at all levels to minimise the chances of misunderstanding.
Issues of defence construction close to the working boundary and the international border have also been deliberated upon to find out amicable solution and address mutual concerns. Both sides pledged to continue endeavours to reduce the friction and create environment for betterment and prosperity of their respective populace. The next meeting is decided to be held in 1st quarter of 2017 in India.
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