AMRITSAR: The Indian and Pakistani delegations are scheduled to hold the third round of discussions at Attari international border on Wednesday to finalise the remaining modalities for the visit of pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district of India through the under-construction Kartarpur corridor .

The talks hold significance not just because they come on the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, but also as the tension between two the countries is at its peak after the abrogation of the special status given to Jammu & Kashmir by New Delhi.

Earlier on August 30, technical experts of both the countries had held a meeting at Dera Baba Nanak. The meeting had concluded hurriedly as the Pakistan delegation was to observe the 'Kashmir Hour' on its side.

Sources said various issues, including the process of issuance of permits by Pakistan, final figure on the number of pilgrims who could travel across the border, travel timing, pilgrimage on foot, security issues and the amount of cash devotees could carry to Pakistan would be given final shape.

"We need to reassure that Pakistan will desist from Khalistan propaganda and keep the anti-India and pro-Khalistan elements at a bay and also not incite pilgrims with vitriolic attack against Kashmir and Punjab," sources said.

During the second round of talks held on July 14 at Wagah, Pakistan, both sides had made some progress in finalising the draft agreement with regard to the modalities. It was agreed to allow visa-free travel for the Indian passport holders and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders seven days a week. Further it was decided that 5,000 pilgrims will be allowed to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara daily throughout the year.

