India, Pakistan talks on Wullar barrage fail

Islamabad, June 23: India and Pakistan today concluded their two-day talks on Wullar barrage without reaching any agreement for the settlement of the long-standing issue.

Union Water Secretary Mr J Hari Narayan and his Pakistani counterpart Ashfaq Mahmood led their respective delegations at the third round of talks, held as part of the bilateral composite dialogue resumed in February 2004, to build mutual trust and resolve all outstanding issues.

''The talks on Wullar barrage and storage project/Tulbal navigation project were held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere,'' said a joint statement issued here after the meeting.

Reaffirming their commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty 1960, the two sides exchanged views on the project and said they had gained a better understanding of each other's views.

''They agreed to continue discussions during the next round of composite dialogue with a view to resolve the issue in accordance with the provisions of the treaty,'' the statement said.

UNI

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