Indo-Pak relations historical with shared cultural traits: Shekhawat

New Delhi, Dec 20 (UNI) A Pakistani parliamentary delegation, led by its Senate Chairman Mohammanmian Soomro, called on Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Bhairon Singh Shekhawat here today, with the two sides affirming that such high-level exchanges would positively influence the bilateral relations.

''The relations between our two countries are historical and we have several cultural commonalities. The visit would enhance the cooperation between our two countries as also betwen our Parliaments,'' Mr Shekhawat said, welcoming the delegation.

Observing that the Parliament in Pakistan, as in India, had evolved as a representative democratic institution, he said the bicameral legislature had become an important element in the constitutional set-up of the two countries.

''The high-level exchanges and interactions have positively influenced our relations,'' Mr Shekhawat added.

The Vice-President also congratulated Mr. Soomro on being elected as the Chairman of the Asia Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Executive Committee.

Pointing out that there was immense scope to further strengthen trade and commerce between the two countries, he exuded optimism that bilateral economic ties would grow to their fullest potential.

He said cultural cooperation has an important place in Indo-Pak relations ''and we are committed to further strengthening people to people contact'' between the two countrie.

On the occasion, Mr Shekhawat presented a memento to Mr Soomro, who invited the Vice-President to visit Pakistan. He also suggested that exchange of student delegations from both the countries, which would further boost mutual cooperation.

The Pakistani delegation leader appreciated the cooperative movement in India and also its tremendous strides in the banking, telecom and infrastructure sectors.

UNI SKS MSJ GC1842