Joint Statement on India-Pakistan talks on Terrorism and Drug Trafficking

A joint statement was released in Islamabad after two days of talks between India and Pakistan on Terrorism and Drug Trafficking. Presented below is the full text of the statement:

11/08/2004

Within the framework of the Composite Dialogue process between Pakistan and India, resumed pursuant to the January 6 Joint Press Statement, talks on Terrorism and Drug Trafficking were held in Islamabad on August 10-11, 2004. The Pakistani delegation was led by Mr. Tariq Mahmud, Secretary, Ministry of Interior while the Indian delegation was led by Mr. Dhirendra Singh, Home Secretary.

Frank and candid discussions were held in a constructive and cordial atmosphere aimed at taking the process forward. Both sides reaffirmed their determination to combat terrorism and emphasized the need for complete elimination of this menace.

They assessed as positive the increasing cooperation and information sharing between Narcotics Control Authorities of the two countries and agreed to work towards an MOU to institutionalize cooperation in this area, and to designate nodal officials in their respective High Commissions to liaise on drug control issues.

The Indian Home Secretary called on the Minister of Interior, Makdoom Syed Faisal Saleh Hayat.

It was agreed to continue the discussions.

Islamabad

August 11, 2004

Source: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi