ISLAMABAD, June 30: The South Asian countries will reduce telecom tariff within the region to the "lowest extent feasible" within the framework of cost orientation based on international benchmarks.

This was decided in the 2nd Saarc Communications Ministers Conference at the end of three-day deliberations here on Wednesday. The concluding session was chaired by the federal minister and special envoy of the President, Awais Leghari.

Recognizing the rapid technological changes taking place globally in the field of telecommunications, the delegates vowed to enhance regional cooperation in the field.

They agreed that a comprehensive strategy should be devised, which would facilitate the expansion of telecom services in the region. They would also share information and resources, besides exchange of fellowships and training facilities in the telecom discipline.

The plan of action, adopted by the conference, also called for harnessing technologies and social and economic uplift of the region through infrastructure development by optimal sharing of available resources.

It was decided to promote technology transfer, standardisation and human resource development by evolving a coordinated approach on issues of common concern in international telecom fora.

The member states also agreed to offer special rates for transiting/hubbing regional traffic and utilise the facilities of other members for their overflow traffic. For this purpose, licensed international long distance operators would be encouraged to frequently negotiate agreements for offering lowest possible tariff.

The delegates also agreed to further facilitate intra-regional communications for travellers and entrepreneurs by promotion of direct services, calling cards, cellular roaming and liberalised leased lines within the regulatory frameworks of the member states.

By another significant decision, the participants agreed to encourage complete digitalisation of inter-country links as early as possible and settle inter-operator revenues in line with the time frame set under international telecommunication regulations.