India and Pakistan on Sunday signed an agreement to expedite the release of prisoners who had served jail term for accidentally crossing the border.
Indian and Pakistani border security officials, who signed the agreement in Karachi after four days of talks, have also agreed for joint patrolling of the borders and a coordinated crackdown on cross-border smugglers.
The Indian delegation was led by Inspector General of Border Security Force, G S Gill and the Pakistani team of paramilitary officials was headed by Maj Gen Javed Zia, Director General, Pakistan Rangers of the Sindh province.
The delegations discussed illegal border crossings and border demarcation, state run PTV said.
According to the agreement, anyone found to have strayed over the border by accident will be released 'without going into lengthy and complicated (repatriation) procedures," Maj Gen Zia said.
"The dialogue was held in highly congenial atmosphere. There has been sincere endeavour from both sides to encourage the local commanders at senior level to amicably resolve minor issues at the grass root level," he added.
"Also, an endeavour has been made both at the local commanders' level and through this forum to minimise the miseries of people continuing in jails of India and Pakistan despite completing their term of punishment."
Pakistan recently released around 41 prisoners held in its jails for visa violations after completion of their terms.
Still over 70 are in its custody and are expected to be released soon. India, too, has been releasing prisoners held in its prisons for visa violations.
© 2024 Rediff.com -