New Delhi: Close on the heels of a Pakistani trade delegation's visit to India, a 20-member Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) women's business delegation would be in Pakistan from August 3 to explore and enhance business and cultural ties.

"The women entrepreneurs' delegation will visit Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar and Lahore and meet concerned ministers and senators to discuss trade related issues," Chandra Garodia, leader of the delegation and chairperson of FICCI ladies organisation, said.

All relevant documents necessary for issuing visa have been sent to the Pakistan High Commission and the members hope they would get the visas soon.

"We always had such a visit to Pakistan in mind. The recent visit of the Pakistani trade delegation gave us the boost," Garodia said.

"An all-women delegation, I am sure, will generate a lot of goodwill among both the countries and go a long way in allaying the existing fears. Our cultures are so similar. I think increased people-to-people contact will help ease the tensions," she added.

Besides the one-to-one business meetings, the delegation will discuss issues related to betterment of children's health and education and employment of women with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and local bodies.

"There will be some cultural programmes also," she said.

The delegation will carry with it samples and brochures of products to facilitate business deals in focus areas like health food, cosmetics, jewellery, herbal products and fashion garments.

PTI