Trade via Jehlum valley road with PoK delayed

Srinagar, Jul 17: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said trade through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, which was supposed to start from this month, may get delayed because of lack of reponse from Pakistan.

He said, ''from our side we have made all the preparations and sent a list of 100 businessmen and traders of the state to Pakistan for approval.'' These businessmen and traders are supposed to visit Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) for finalising all formalities with regard to free trade on borders, Mr Azad said.

However, he said, ''it is unfortunate that we have not yet received any clearance from the other side of border for the visit of these businessmen who could finalise trade procedures and other formalities with their counterpart.

India and Pakistan had agreed to resume trade activities through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road from July this year.

He said Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road and Poonch-Rawalakot road have helped the families divided since 1947 to meet each other.

''Our country has always tried its level best to extend hands of friendship towards our neighbouring country,'' the Chief Minister said.

UNI