| Submit your comments on this article |
| India-Pakistan |
| India-Pakistan: Kashmir trade resumes for first time in 60 years |
| 2008-10-22 |
| (AKI) - India and Pakistan resumed trading across the Line of Control in the disputed territory of Kashmir for the first time in six decades on Tuesday. A convoy of 14 trucks loaded with food items and handicrafts left Muzaffarabad on Monday night for the city of Srinagar. The trucks, carrying stipulated items, were to cross the ceasefire line for the first time since the two countries were divided 61 years ago. They have fought three wars on the Kashmir issue. According to Pakistan's Geo News, a list of 21 items considered acceptable for trade was finalised by the two governments and the list will gradually be expanded. The long-running territorial dispute over Kashmir involves India, Pakistan and China. Kashmir is the most northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent. The trade route will link Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, and Srinagar, capital of India-administered Kashmir. The other Rawalakot-Poonch route will be formally open later this month. Reports said a total of 21 items had been approved for import and export by the Joint Working Group of the two countries. Fruits, kidney beans, honey, spices, walnuts and almonds will be sent to Pakistan while rice, spices, rock salt, dry dates and raisins will be imported to India. |
| Posted by:Fred |