New Delhi, Dec 03: Moving ahead on its confidence building measures to normalise bilateral ties, India today proposed to Pakistan modalities for setting up direct communication links between Coast Guards of the two countries to address issues relating to fishermen and operational difficulties. As part of its 12 proposals, New Delhi had on October 22 suggested establishment of communication links between the Indian Coast Guard (ICC) and the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (MSA) and that flag meetings could be held at sea before and after the fishing season.
Following this up, India today proposed that the director or deputy director of operations at the ICC headquarters could establish communication through ISD with their counterparts in MSA headquarters with effect from January one, External Affairs Ministry spokesman said in a statement here. The communication links, which would be used on the basis of agreed periodicity and when required, would cover matters related to the humanitarian aspects concerning fishermen of both countries and issues arising out of the operational situation confronted by both the agencies, he said. Similarly flag level meetings between the two agencies have been proposed to be held every six months in April and September, the statement said adding "Pakistan`s response is now awaited".
Fishermen straying into each other`s territorial waters get apprehended and find their vessels seized. It takes a long time for both sides to secure their release.
As per available information, 28 Indian fishermen are currently under detention in Pakistan which has so far released 623.
Bureau Report