Washington: Welcoming a slew of steps by India and Pakistan to reduce tensions in the sub-continent, the White House has said it was important for the two neighbours to work together to further improve ties.

"We're very well aware of what's going on in the region between India and Pakistan, and we welcome the steps that are taken to reduce tensions in the region," White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan told reporters on December 3.

"It's important for the parties to continue working together to reduce those tensions. So we welcome efforts (to reduce tensions)," he added.

Last week, India and Pakistan announced a cease-fire along the line of control (LoC) and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir. On December 1, they agreed to restore direct civil aviation links, suspended after the December 13, 2001, attack on Parliament.

Officials of the two countries will meet in New Delhi later this month for technical level talks on resumption of 'Samjhauta Express' train.

PTI