May 10, 2003	Saturday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 7, 1424

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BEIJING, May 9: China has postponed the opening of Sino-Pakistan border for trade and travelling following the spread of Sars virus.

The border was scheduled to reopen on May 1 after a five-month winter break.

The decision to this effect was taken mutually by the two governments, a spokeswoman for the Chinese foreign office, Zhang Qiyue, told reporters, adding that the border might now open on June 1.

The Khunjerab point on Karakorum Highway is a seasonable checkpoint that works from six to seven months a year. It is closed due to winter in early part of the year.

The spokeswoman said China had also closed its borders with other neighbouring countries at certain points and imposed restrictions on the flow of passengers and goods across some other border crossings.

Meanwhile, sources in Beijing said the sudden delay in reopening of the border had caused hardships to Pakistanis, who were on the short visit to Western region and were scheduled to return home by the end of April by road.

They are facing problems, mainly because their visa has expired and they are unable to afford air travel.

The delay, sources said, would hamper business activities between the two countries.—APP