ISLAMABAD (DNA) – There is a greater realization in India and Pakistan that increased bilateral trade will act as force multiplier and help reducing poverty in both , therefore, both countries need to accelerate efforts for further promoting two-way trade, observed Mr. T.A.C. Raghavan, High Commissioner of India while addressing a big gathering of business community at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

He said all neighboring countries may have some difference, but improvement in bilateral trade has the potential to transform all aspect of relations between India and Pakistan.

He said Indian Prime Minister has urged in his speeches for better relations with all neighbors in order to advance economic growth and investment for reducing poverty and this should be the preferred approach of India and Pakistan to improve living standard of common man.

He said for improving relations, it is important that India and Pakistan should keep positive things in mind rather than the negatives. He was of the view that things were moving in right direction and more bilateral cooperation could help removing misperceptions. He said that PTV dramas have once again become popular in India and a new movie with a lead role fro Pakistani Actor was a notable progress.

He said tourism promotion is the quickest way of employment generation and India has signed a protocol of tourism with Pakistan to promote bilateral tourism and efforts were afoot to address issues including NTBs between the two countries.

He said Indian High Commission has planned to hold regular video conferences and smaller networking sessions with Pakistan Chambers and assured to play a facilitative role in grant of visas to Pakistani businessmen.

Speaking at the occasion, S.M.Munir, Chief Executive, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan said that TDAP’s recent Pakistan Lifestyle Expo in India achieved good success and thanked Indian authorities for their support for said Expo. He said being close neighbor, Pakistan and India have great potential to promote bilateral trade and both countries should open more trade routes for realizing the available potential.