Terming his five-day tour to Pakistan historic, Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal said here on Friday that both Punjabs were keen on economic prosperity of the region and now the onus was on the governments of India and Pakistan to carry forward the dialogue.
On his return to India, Sukhbir who headed a 45-member delegation from the state, said, "Both Punjabs have great potential for changing the profile of this region through strong trade, cultural and sports ties. During our visit, some key decisions were taken that can usher in a new era."

He added, "During talks with Pakistani Punjab chief minister Shahbaz Sharif, it was decided to form a Joint Working Committee for trade and commerce that would have 10 members each from each Punjab. "We will work out a blueprint for increasing commerce and industrial ties. The committee meetings will be held regularly," Sukhbir said.

"Another major proposal was to set up a joint industrial zone in the Wagah-Attari area, wherein a large chunk of land could be earmarked for companies from both nations to set up factories and produce goods. The goods produced in this zone can be traded between the two countries without any duty or tax," the deputy CM said.

Announcing that Sharif had consented to be the chief guest during the World Cup Kabaddi final in Ludhiana in December, Sukhbir said, "We are committed to this dialogue between the two Punjabs. Sharif will be here along with a group of ministers and businessmen."

He stated that it had been decided to start the bi-annual Punjab Cup in the disciplines of cricket, hockey, wrestling and tug-of-war.

For more details, read tomorrow's edition of Hindustan Times