The two-day bi-annual meeting between Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force (BSF) concluded at Headquarters Pakistan Rangers Punjab on Thursday.
Both sides decided to seek solution of bilateral issues through enhanced contact and communication at all levels.
The meeting also discussed the issue of expediting repatriation of inadvertent border crossers and mutually agreed to ensure their safe return. They acknowledged the concerted efforts put in by both the forces to check cross-border smuggling of narcotics and contrabands. Both sides agreed to encourage local commanders to resolve minor issues related to border management by frequent flag meetings. The two sides decided to share information regarding prevention of drug trafficking and agreed upon joint patrol of the border.
The host delegation was be led by Maj. Gen Umar Farooq Burki while the Indian contingent was headed by BSF Director General KK Sharma.
Both sides expected the resolve to continue sharing information.
Both sides pledged to continue endeavours to reduce friction and create environment for betterment and prosperity of their respective populace.
The next meeting will be held in India in first quarter of next year.
On Wednesday in the first day of talks, both sides agreed on not violating the ceasefire along the border. According to a spokesman of the Punjab Rangers, matters related to border management and improving the coordination between the two forces were discussed.
Representatives from the interior ministry, the Pakistan Rangers (Sindh), Anti-Narcotics Force and the Survey of Pakistan also took part on the opening day of the discussions, the spokesman added.
The DG-level talks between the two sides are a bi-annual affair, but several times these meetings have not taken place due to a strain in relations between the two South Asian countries. The last such meeting between the BSF and the Pakistan Rangers was held in New Delhi in September last year.
