India, Pakistan agree on joint survey of marsh

The two rivals have met several times to work out a way to demarcate the disputed strip of marshland that separates India's western Gujarat state from Pakistan's Sindh province.

Although considered to be of little strategic value to either side, it has been the scene of heavy fighting between the hostile neighbours.

"Both sides agreed to conduct the joint survey of the Sir Creek and adjoining areas and waters between November and March 2007," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna said.

He added that negotiations on marsh area will resume in August.

Technical experts from both countries will meet in Pakistan in August to work out the details for a joint survey, he said.

Others, however, described the talks as "fruitless."

"Both sides have been talking of a joint survey for years but nothing tangible has come through," said an Indian defence ministry official who participated in the two-day talks.