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WAGAH: Pakistani and Indian officials resumed routine talks on border issues that had been suspended for two years because of tensions between the nuclear-capable rivals.

Indian Delegation

An eight-member delegation from India's Border Security Force crossed into Pakistani territory at the eastern Wagah border post for the talks, which had been held monthly before they were suspended.

The commander of the Pakistani post, Colonel Sher Zaman, presented his Indian counterpart Darbar Singh with a bouquet on his arrival.

'It is a very pleasant moment that both the sides have started border talks that remained suspended for two years,' Singh said on Saturday.

Backdrop

The monthly talks are held to discuss and coordinate routine affairs like border crossings, boundary pillars, the movement of cattle and patrolling.

They were suspended following an alleged attack on India's parliament in December 2001. Relations between India and Pakistan have improved since April last.

Impact of Thaw

In recent months, India and Pakistan have moved toward a thaw, restoring full diplomatic relations and a cross-border bus service. They also have agreed to revive rail and air links early next year.

The two countries have restored full diplomatic ties and resumed a bus service. They will restart flights on January-1 and a Rail service from January-15, 2004.

Pakistan and Indian border officials do not require visas if they travel within 150 metres (500 feet) of each others' territory.

Peace Talks

Pakistani and Indian border-security officials held their first peace talks in two years amid easing tensions between the two countries.

Their last meeting at Wagha, the only land crossing between the two countries, was held before bilateral relations plunged after a December 2001 episode.

'Good Atmosphere'

'We have taken up the issues in a good atmosphere,' Col. Sher Zaman, the head of Pakistani post at Wagha, told reporters. 'God willing, this process will continue.'

Wagha lies about 25 kilometers east of the Pakistani city of Lahore.

No Details

Officials gave no details about the discussions. Sardar Darbar Singh, commander of the Indian force at Wagha, only said they touched on 'some old and some new issues.'