In a sign of gathering thaw between India and Pakistan, or maybe just the searing heat in the Indus-Ganga plains this summer, an Indo-Pakistan peace meet begins in the cooler climes of Kathmandu on Friday.

On hand are ex-military brass, retired diplomats, media and peaceniks from both countries who will try to boost confidence-building measures between the two countries.

The Indian delegation, led by Gen Ashok K Mehta, told media in New Delhi: The Kathmandu meeting will try to deconstruct and demystify reasons (for tensions)?and will recommend a roadmap for peace. Also attending are former Pakistani foreign ministers Inam ul Haq, Sartaj Azis and ex-foreign secretary Niaz Naik. Indian ex-foreign secretary MK Rasgotra, and former Indian envoy to Pakistan Satinder Lamba will also be in the Indian delegation. The Indian and Pakistani ambassadors in Kathmandu will also attend.

A Nepali foreign ministry source told us the government is watching the meeting closely, and look forward to an immediate positive outcome like the resumption of Pakistani airlines flights to Kathmandu.