Islamabad, June 17: A delegation of Indian parliamentarians visiting Pakistan today suggested the creation of a forum of legislators from both countries as also easing visa restrictions and resumption of travel links for promoting peace and removing apprehensions and doubts between the neighbours. The six Indian MPs led by Kuldip Nayyar were given a grand reception by Pakistani public and members of non-government organisations when they crossed into Pakistan at Wagh border. They were later taken to Lahore.

Upon arrival, Nayyar told reporters he was proposing a forum of Indo-Pak legislators "for dispelling misapprehensions and promoting peace and fraternity between the two countries." He said the proposed forum would meet in both countries every two months, adding he was optimistic of peace and removal of apprehensions and doubts between India and Pakistan.

Nayyar said he strongly advocated abolishing of visa restrictions and running two bus services daily besides daily train services between the two countries. He said that the Indian delegation was deeply moved by the reception they got from the common people as also the India-Pakistan peoples forum for peace and democracy, headed by former finance minister Dr Mubashar Hassan, which had invited the MPs.

Besides Nayyar, the Indian delegation included Shahid Siddiqui, Kartar Singh Duggan, Luxman Seth, Pawan Lal and Abdul Rashid Shaheen. Three more members—K M Khan, Rajiv Shukla and Athwalay-- will reach Lahore tomorrow.

Bureau Report