India, Pak exchange maps on Sir Creek

New Delhi, May 18 (UNI) India and Pakistan have exchanged maps and charts showing their respective positions on delineation of the boundary in Sir Creek and delimitation of the maritime boundary.

The maps were exchanged at the two-day talks between the officials of the two countries at Rawalpindi which concluded today.

The two sides will study the maps and convey the outcome to their respective governments.

At the talks, the officials of both countries deliberated on the delimitation of the maritime boundary as well as the delineation of the boundary in the 96 km marshy strip in the Rann of Kutch in Western India, separating Gujarat from Pakistan's Sindh Provice.

The talks, held under the Fourth Round of the Composite Dialogue Process (CDP), constituted the first formal round of negotiations on the issue after the two countries conducted a joint survey and agreed on a common map that would help demarcate maritime boundary between them.

''The talks were held in a a cordial and friendly atmosphere,'' an External Affairs Ministry spokesman said here.

The Indian delegation was headed by Maj Gen M Gopal Rao, Surveyor General of India, and the Pakistan side was led by Rear Admiral Tanveer Faiz, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Defence.

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the successful completion of the joint survey of Sir Creek and adjoining areas and agreed to continue discussions for amicable settlement of the issue.

The Indian delegation also called on Mr Kamran Rasool, Secretary Defence.

A resolution of the Sir Creek issue will enable both countries to notify their Exclusive Economic Zones in the sea.

UNI