India and Pakistan agree to fight terror; plan hotline
29 Mar 2011
Pakistan has finally veered round to agreeing to better cooperation with India in fighting terrorism and has, at least in principle, agreed to allow an Indian team to visit the country in connection with the probe into the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.
The decision comes ahead of the proposed "cricket" meeting of prime ministers of both countries in Mohali tomorrow.
Both sides also agreed to set up a `hotline' between the secretary of India's home ministry and the interior secretary of Pakistan to facilitate real time information sharing with respect to terrorist threats.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reaffirmed the need to bring those responsible for such crimes to justice.
Both sides exchanged views on the decisions taken in the last round of talks held in Islamabad in 2008. It was agreed that both sides remain engaged on outstanding issues and henceforth the home/interior secretary level talks would be held bi-annually.
The two sides agreed to set up a hotline between the home secretary of India and the interior secretary of Pakistan to facilitate real time information sharing with respect to terrorist threats.