No breakthrough in Indo-Pak talks on Siachen
13 June, 2012
ISLAMABAD: India and Pakistan on Tuesday failed to make any progress in connection with demilitarisation of the world's highest battlefield Siachen, as the 13th round of secretary level talks between the two countries ended in Rawalpindi.
Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to make serious, sustained and result-oriented efforts for seeking an amicable solution to Siachen dispute, a joint statement said.
"In the meeting, both sides explained their respective point of view over the issue and agreed that they would continue talks and would also convey each other's point of view to the political leaderships," official sources said. It was agreed to continue the dialogue on Siachen in keeping with the desire of leaders of both countries for early resolution of all outstanding issues. Both sides acknowledged that the ceasefire was in force since 2003.
They further agreed that the next round of talks on Siachen would be held in New Delhi on mutually convenient dates to be fixed through diplomatic channels. Pakistani officials explained to the Indian delegation that Pakistan wants withdrawal of forces by both sides in Siachen and station them back to the position the two countries held before 1984.
The Indian side clarified that the withdrawal could be considered after Pakistan authenticates current troop positions, delineates the boundary on the map and demarcates it on ground. The joint statement said the talks were held in a "cordial and friendly atmosphere". The two-day talks on Siachen were held at the Defence Ministry in Rawalpindi.
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