Pakistan’s Foreign Minster Meets Indian Trade Minster

ISTANBUL, 8 June 2010: Foreign Minister of Pakistan Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi met Indian Minister for Commerce & Industry Mr. Anand Sharma on the sidelines of 3rd CICA Summit at Istanbul today.

Both the ministers discussed the immense trade potential that exists between India and Pakistan. Mr. Sharma said that he is looking forward to meet his Pakistani counterpart to discuss the issues of bilateral trade and commerce.
The Foreign Minister appreciated meeting between Pakistani and Indian businessmen in New Delhi held recently. Mr. Sharma also lauded the meeting and informed the Foreign Minister that he would send a delegation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry to Pakistan in October 2010 to further cement and explore bilateral economic ties.
The Ministers also discussed the forthcoming dialogue between India and Pakistan. They deliberated on the modalities to bridge trust deficit that exists between the two countries and the ways to take the dialogue process forward.
Mr. Qureshi welcomed Indian Home Minister Chadam Baram’s upcoming visit to Pakistan; and said that in his interaction with the Home Minister he will discuss issues of mutual concern. He reiterated that the answer to the problem of terrorism lies in enhanced engagement.
The Foreign Minister conveyed his best wishes to His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India and the Foreign Minister Mr. S.M. Krishna.
ENDS