Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 25: Describing the invitation of PM designate Narendra Modi and its acceptance by Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharief to attend former’s swearing- in ceremony as historic, the President of Jammu Kashmir Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry, JKJCCI, YV Sharma has hoped this renewal of relationship between two countries will give further fillip to cross LoC relationship.
In a statement, Mr Sharma said that willingness of two countries to accord prominence to economic development could be game changer in the region (South Asia). He observed that PM designate Narendra Modi’s visionary step of inviting PM Nawaz Sharief to New Delhi and the latter’s willingness to participate has already set tone for positive energy in the relationship between two countries.
Mr. Sharma said in the bilateral meetings that may follow between two top leaders, India and Pakistan should make a thorough review of Cross LoC trade and initiate steps for its promotion. He said said former Prime Minister Mr Vajpayee took a number of initiatives for confidence building measures between the two neighbouring countries which were also carried by UPA Government and in 2008 both the countries took a historic decision and after clearing nitty-gritty agreed to go ahead with cross LoC trade.
Sharma described the cross LoC trade as “Mother” of all CBMs so far initiated by both the countries. JKJCCI president urged the Government of India and Pakistan to address the long pending demand of traders of both the sides of the LoC including banking, Infrastructure, communication linkages and hassle- free travel permission for the businessmen.