ISLAMABAD, June 29: The secretary-level talks between Pakistan and India on promotion of friendly exchanges ended here on Friday with both sides agreeing to work towards speedy implementation and institutionalisation of a two-and-half-year programme of interaction in various fields.

A brief joint statement issued at the conclusion of the two-day talks held under the fourth round of the Composite Dialogue announced: “The two sides discussed a Programme of Friendly Exchanges between the two countries for the period 2007-2009, and agreed to work towards its expeditious implementation.”

The two sides also made a number of proposals for promoting cooperation in the fields of art and culture, archaeology, sports, youth affairs, traditional systems of medicine, education, information and media, tourism and visits to religious shrines, the statement said.

The Programme of Friendly Exchanges in diverse fields was proposed by the Pakistan side. “The Indian delegation was in principle receptive to the idea but said it would get back on it after consulting with the relevant departments,” a source privy to the meeting told Dawn.

“The thrust of the meeting was on institutional arrangements for ensuring a durable basis for friendly exchanges,” said one delegate, adding that the next step would be for the two sides to direct the relevant institutions in both the countries to work on MoUs for meaningful cooperation.

The Pakistan delegation was led by Salim Gul Sheikh, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, and the Indian delegation was headed by Badal K. Das, Secretary, Department of Culture, Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

High Commissioners of both the countries and senior foreign ministry officials also attended the talks.

After the talks the Indian delegation also called on federal minister for Culture, Dr G.G. Jamal. The Indian delegates also visited the Lok Virsa Museum and some archaeological sites including Taxila.