Sunday, October 30 2005 11:06 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Islamabad: India and Pakistan yesterday (Oct 29, 2005) night agreed to open five centers on the Line of Control to provide relief and medical assistance to quake victims from both sides of Kashmir after hectic 12-hour parleys.

The two sides agreed to open crossings at Nauseri-Tithwal, Chakoti-Uri, Hajipur-Uri, Rawalakot-Poonch and Tattapani-Mendhar to allow the quake affected people of Kashmir especially from divided families to meet each other.

A Joint Statement issued at the end of the talks late in the night here said that Pakistan had expressed its appreciation for the assistance provided by India for the earthquake victims.

"It was agreed that because of non-availability of or damage to infrastructure on these points, crossings across the LoC would be permitted on foot. The parameters and procedures as already agreed upon between the two sides being used for the Muzaffarabad-Srinagar bus service would be used for the above additional crossings and both will endeavor to expedite the clearance process preferably within ten days," the statement said.

It was further agreed that priority for crossings would be accorded to members of divided families on either side of LoC.

"For relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction purposes, it was agreed that with prior information and acceptance and depending on feasibility, relief items can be sent in either direction and handed-over to local authorities on the afore mentioned crossing points," the statement said.

The two sides agree to operationalise the arrangements on 7 November as a humanitarian measure.