New Delhi, June 24: India today suggested to Pakistan the early convening of technical level discussions for resumption of civil aviation links on a reciprocal basis. An announcement to this effect was made by the external affairs ministry spokesperson here. These discussions would be held on mutually agreed dates, as soon as Pakistan confirms its readiness to hold the technical level meeting, informed sources said. Restoration of civil aviation links, announced by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on May 2 in Parliament, could not proceed since Pakistan had not clearly indicated its position regarding overflights.
Islamabad had also subsequently indicated that the question of overflights could be addressed when technical level discussions took place for restoration of civil aviation links.
The sources said keeping this in mind, and in view of the successful process of implementation of the other two measures-- appointment of high commissioners and talks on resumption of Delhi-Lahore bus service-- India has now agreed to holding of technical level discussions on resumption of civilian flights.
Today`s move is aimed at taking further the hand of friendship with Pakistan extended by Vajpayee on April 18 in Srinagar.
Subsequently on May 26, the Prime Minister had declared India`s readiness to resume the Delhi-Lahore bus service, which had been snapped following the December 13 terrorist attack on Parliament, along with other stiff measures like suspension of air links and recall of Indian high commissioner from Islamabad.
The sources said there has been progress on the implementation of several of these measures. Both countries since have appointed their respective high commissioners. Bureau Report