Easier visa regime may come before year-end: Makhdoom Amin Fahim, commerce minister of Pakistan

Pakistani commerce minister Makhdoom Amin Fahim says the impediments to trade are nothing more than speed-breakers on a highway and that Indo-Pak ties will get only stronger now. In an interview with ET, Fahim talks about the need to learn from the past and the role of army in the on-going trade negotiations. Excerpts:


What has led to the deepening of trade ties between Pakistan and India of late?

We should realise that there is no use fighting with each other. Why should we not engage in a dialogue and move ahead? Trade is a binding force. We will move ahead in a lot of areas through trade. The remaining issues can also then get sorted out.

Have the growing budget deficit and borrowings also changed the way Pakistan views its neighbors?

Both countries have realised that trade can help move ahead in a way that it benefits both nations and people. Our priority is to improve the financial situation of both countries. It is like moving on a highway. You keep crossing speed breakers, but you ultimately reach your final point.

How do you view India's decision to allow Pak investments?

I must say the way Pakistan and India have started the process of dialogue is a very positive thing. We can come closer, resolve our issues and sort out future plans through dialogue. I think allowing FDI from Pakistan is a good initiative. We will definitely respond positively.

How do you want India to reciprocate to the grant of MFN status by Pakistan?

We have in principle decided to give the status of MFN to India. It is just a terminology of the WTO. The decision has to be implemented after negotiations with India. The two commerce secretaries will meet next month to discuss the issue. Once negotiations are completed, it will be formally announced.

What are the areas that Pakistan would focus on in these discussions?

I don't want to focus on one point. It is not advisable to keep one particular thing on top. Our talks are happening at the ministerial and official levels. Our experts are also meeting. They will take care of all issues.

There is a conflict on duty-free access to textiles. What concessions do you want?

In textiles, we want to be treated the same way as other neighbouring countries. It is true that textiles industry in both countries is strong. But so are the Pakistani and Indian cricket teams. But still they play the game. Sometimes one wins and sometimes the other.

How liberal will the new business visa regime be and when will it be implemented?

In principle, we have decided to give multiple-entry visa to businessmen but the final call will be that of the Indian home ministry and Pakistani interior ministry. Our target is to complete everything by end of year. We may reach a decision before time.

Do the talks have the blessings of the Pakistani army?

The Pakistani army is also Pakistani. So are the businessmen and people of the country. We are not separate. We are one. And our decisions are also one.