SAARC Rallyists demand free travel facility on EU pattern

Jalandhar, Mar 28 (UNI) SAARC car rallyists have demanded free travel facility among member nations on the pattern of European Union (EU).

The first SAARC car rally, which was flagged off from Dhaka's Cox Bazar in Bangladesh on March 15, reached here today for a brief halt before entering Pakistan.

Film actress and choreographer from Bangladesh Priya Dias, who is participating in the rally alongwith her actor-husband Tony Dias told UNI that after going back to her country she would urge the political leadership to open international border atleast for the SAARC countries on the pattern of European Union for free travel.

This would further boost tourism, trade, peace, harmony among the people, she added.

Five times Indian car rally champion and 2000 Asian Zone winner Hari Singh called it a life time experience as it was a rare chance to cross borders with over 100 persons from different countries living and moving like a family.

He said the participants were overwhelmed with the hospitality and treatment they recieved during their journey.

This rally would further improve relations among SAARC courntries which would ultimately boost trade, tourism and peace among the member nations, he opined.

On the difference between this rally and the earlier ones he had participated in, Mr Singh said, ''Earlier, I had participated to win championship but this time I am participating to win hearts.'' The objective of the rally is to focus on regional connectivity amongst SAARC countries, highlight the need to improve regional trade and transport infrastructure, increase people-to-people contact, tap the vast potential for business, investment and tourism opportunities and to promote regional goodwill.

The rally, will culminate at the Maldieves on April 14, where the 15th SAARC Summit is proposed to be held in the year 2008.

UNI