Nawaz Sharif invited for Modi's swearing-in ceremony
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ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has been invited to attend the oath-taking ceremony of India’s next prime minister Narendra Modi on May 26, sources in the Pakistani Foreign Office confirmed Wednesday.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also confirmed the invitation.
BJP spokeswoman Nirmala Sitharaman said all heads of government from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries “have been given invitations to be present at Mr Modi’s swearing in.”
“Yes we have received a formal invitation from the Indian government through the Indian High Commission in Islamabad,” a top source at the Pakistani foreign office told Dawn.com.
However, she said no decision had yet been taken as to who would represent Pakistan in the ceremony.
Sources said Sharif would consult his close aides before taking a decision on the invitation.
The BJP, a Hindu nationalist party, emerged victorious in the general elections held in the world’s largest democracy during the past two months.
Following the BJP’s sweeping victory at the polls, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had phoned the party’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his party’s win in the elections.
Sharif, who’s Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) came to power in the May 2013 general elections, also extended an invitation to Modi to visit Pakistan.
Soon after his party’s victory at the polls last year, Sharif had hinted at inviting his then-Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh at his oath-taking ceremony but no formal invitation was extended.
—with reporting by Mateen Haider from Islamabad
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On DawnNews
Comments (157) Closed
May 21, 2014 01:54pm
No doubt, absolutely great step from India to her sister country Pakistan. Long live both the countries!
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May 21, 2014 01:55pm
Good gesture, hope Mr.Shareef will visit India for regional peace
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May 21, 2014 01:55pm
Hope this initiates peace and prosperity...and cricket!!!
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May 21, 2014 01:56pm
Good move
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May 21, 2014 01:57pm
This is Positive, let their be peace with these brother Nations.
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May 21, 2014 01:58pm
Welcome to India Mr. Sharif hope you and Mr. Modi will fight with terrorism decisively.
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May 21, 2014 02:03pm
Another positive sign !. We all should prosper in a cordial and peaceful atmosphere
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May 21, 2014 02:06pm
Good beginning. Am sure Nawaz Sharif will go, reciprocating the gesture. A clear statement of intent of the new Foreign Policy by India - focus on neighbours first! Can't say I disagree...
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May 21, 2014 02:07pm
Good gesture. I expect both of these pro-business leader to declare Line of Control as permanent border and extend Lahore-Peshawar motorway to Delhi and Kabul. Let us build a better future for millions of poor people in the region.
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May 21, 2014 02:11pm
Time to come close... and build relation
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May 21, 2014 02:14pm
Nawaz Sharif visit to India will not make any difference to the relations. The issues will still remain which India and Pakistan has been demanding from each other.
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May 21, 2014 02:15pm
second time lucky? nawaz was turned down by Manmohen ealrier Nawaz invited Indian PM to visit Pakistan and made call to Modi as well after his Party's success
but then again since the invitation is to all SAARC members then maybe nawaz is not meant to feel so special
but still.. good diplomatic move BJP.
nothing but appreciation for your gesture
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May 21, 2014 02:23pm
No doubt it is good political gesture from India.
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May 21, 2014 02:26pm
@KRana
Wish had it been so easy. Wish NS had the power to run the country.
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May 21, 2014 02:27pm
@Sunil
Pakistani army will never let the relation to improve. This will affect their bread and butter. Animosity and hatred against the Indians keep them survive.
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May 21, 2014 02:30pm
If the leaders of our region behave like statesmen rather than politicians then many historical and strategic issues that are common to our region can be resolved. The people of Pakistan wish Mr. Modi and his party and country well, and hope the new leaderships in both countries would make us move forward together .
Our biggest asset is our demography, our geography and our desire to re-assert our place in the comity of nations. What is missing is the resolve to get rid of our historical baggage. Outsiders will continue to benefit from it if we keep allowing them.
If we cannot live as brothers then at least we can try to live as civilised neighbours.
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May 21, 2014 02:30pm
Good move for peace and prosperity in the region.lets hope they can solve all their issues amicably
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May 21, 2014 02:31pm
Narendra damodardas modi is the man of the century for india
Saffron flag is flying high and we hindus are feeling proud!!!
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May 21, 2014 02:31pm
Now let's see if Nawaz accepts the offer. Most probably he will not come as he would be seen as a weak prime minister in comparison to Modi.
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May 21, 2014 02:37pm
@guddi hi guddi
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May 21, 2014 02:38pm
Why is there such a big hopla about the invitation? It is just a formality. Modi has invited all SARC members; it is not a special invitation to Nawaz for a state visit.
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May 21, 2014 02:38pm
A great move by Modi which will put Pakistan in a quandary whether to accept it or not. However, all depends on the green signal from the military.
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May 21, 2014 02:41pm
@Nilesh Shah ... Pakistan is not a sister of India ? we are just neighbors.
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May 21, 2014 02:41pm
Good move from Both sides, first Mr. Sharif's invitation and then from Mr. Modi, please visit India Mr Sharif this visit could be symbolic and will help strengthen ties between the 2 countries. We are eagerly waiting for you to come for this ceremony.
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May 21, 2014 02:44pm
This is an oportunity for sheriff to start a new beginning with india. If you have mumbai like agenda in mind then please dont come. One thing is sure modi is a trusted man in war and peace.
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May 21, 2014 02:45pm
Great step and I am sure the civilian government of Pakistan will respond positively. Both people elected governments should enhance co-operation and bury away the past as early as possible.
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May 21, 2014 02:56pm
Great to see, so many from cross border follow the Dawn news :)
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May 21, 2014 02:57pm
In 1999 when Atal Bihari Vajpayee had met Nawab Sharif, same time Pak army had infiltrated in Kargil sector. I hope that will not be happen this time but on present time is of Modi, Zero tolerance nature.
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May 21, 2014 03:03pm
@guddi
Yes, seems Mr Sharif will have to see the sentiments across country. Still, wish he could make a start.
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May 21, 2014 03:08pm
Sharif will need to ask ISI and their non state actor arm - Hafiz Saeed for the same. Or else, we can wait a day for the shrill cry of Hafiz Saeed, who need no invitation for his trolls.
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May 21, 2014 03:22pm
Go ahead Mr.Primier Nawaz sharif
we pray this bring a new change
Be the 1st to attend
God bless you
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May 21, 2014 03:22pm
Both India and Pakistan should prosper through peace; the western nations sell us arms and make fools of us both. I feel close to home any time I am with someone from Pakistan.
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May 21, 2014 03:25pm
Mr PM I'm sure you have better things to do with your time, rather than glorify this person. We should maintain relations with india, but under Modi they will have to be at some distance. Indian voters have forgiven and forgotten the butchery in Gujerat. But we Pakistanis must not forget. Nor should we fool ourselves that he represents some friendly face of india. We know that he represents intolerance and they PM should stay away from this.
We have enough intolerance in Pakistan with sectarian groups, we should not encourage more in neighbours.
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May 21, 2014 03:35pm
He should not go to India as MMS did not come when he himself invited him during his own oath ceremony, but he will go as our politicians have no self respect neither they care for country's image.
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May 21, 2014 03:41pm
Wow.....what a happy moment for Nawaz Sharif..... That's his dream which is about to come true.
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May 21, 2014 03:43pm
A great gesture on Modi's part..let us keep the ball of peace rolling.World peace is no longer some pie-in-the-sky thing, because no single person or country is going to solve it on their own.
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May 21, 2014 03:46pm
This is positive start from Mr. Modi in India. As a Pakistani my advice to Nawaz Sharif that he should attend the ceremony and start some thing new with them. Leave what happen in past.
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May 21, 2014 03:47pm
Absolutely masterful stroke from BJP Government, that's the way to move forward, really looking forward to N.S visit to india
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May 21, 2014 03:50pm
Wow.Great gesture.It is a great opportunity.Nawaz Sharif must participate in this ceremony.We want good relations with India
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May 21, 2014 03:55pm
Appreciable move...!!
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May 21, 2014 04:04pm
@true blue! India is a father and you are bachoos. however big you might think you are, you can never be bigger than your abba; so mind it; there was no entity called pakistan hardly seventy years back, so mind it.
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May 21, 2014 04:09pm
Its a good chance. Good decision for both the countries to cool up the hot environment. NS should have joint house sitting along with Pakistan Army and take decision. I hope this will bring all institutions of Pakistan closer in the mess created nowdays.
We should try to avoid the mess in every aspect of society. Thinks as a nation and take decision by taking all stakeholders on board.
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May 21, 2014 04:11pm
Nawaz Sharif should go and get full milage out of it. That puts Modi in a defensive mode and less beligerant. Don't give Modi any excuse that Pakistan is not responsive. And who knows in the long run it might yield good relations. All those who think that invitation is to all SARC countries, they are diminishing the importance. Don't forget that in SARC there are only two nuclear powers. So the invitation has undertones here.
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May 21, 2014 04:16pm
Sri Lankan President also invited. What about Tamil Nadu Chief Minister? She will boycott the Modi's swearing-in ceremony?
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May 21, 2014 04:24pm
@Irfan Baloch
A very sneaky diplomatic chess game by BJPites to invite N. sharif and let us see if he will attend. After all Islamabad is only 45 minutes flight from Dilli.
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May 21, 2014 04:26pm
Fortunately the short notice is no hassle
PMs frequesnt travels have resulted in several new suits financed by the tax payer.
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May 21, 2014 04:28pm
Why Mr.Modi invited these terrorists ?
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May 21, 2014 04:30pm
@true blue! yep, just like your great grand father wasn't a forced convert, and you can trace your ancestry to great gentle Arab soldiers like most of Pakistanis. keep on living in denial. all the best
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May 21, 2014 04:34pm
A very noble gesture by the BJP. Nawaz Sharif should reciprocate in the same noble manner.
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May 21, 2014 04:36pm
@Last Word
Absolutely right! Let us see what Khaki boys say and what excuse will be given! BTW what response N. sharif had when he invited Modi in his phone conversation?
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May 21, 2014 04:38pm
Not sure Nawaz Sharif will be able to come to India, unless Zaid Hamid and Lucman gives permission to him. I dont think its gonna happen.
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May 21, 2014 04:42pm
Make correction. Nawaz Sharif is not head of the state. President is.
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May 21, 2014 04:46pm
Great news. Mr. Shareef had taken a bold initiative by calling Modi to congratulate him on his success and also went a step further by inviting him to visit pakistan.
let's hope, both leaders will focus on regional cooperation, peaceful coexistence, and fair bilateral relations promoting trade and commerce for the benefit of two neighborly nations.
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May 21, 2014 04:48pm
If he has an iota of self respect he would not go but we cannot expect this from someone who has come to power on promisesof compliance to US agenda in the region which includes giving india control over the region.
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May 21, 2014 04:49pm
Don't think PM Nawaz can make it to the swearing-in of Narendra Modi. Pak Army wouldn't let him, I guess.
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May 21, 2014 04:52pm
Surprising move. We Welcome the move
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May 21, 2014 04:52pm
Pray for peace, harmony and understanding. Living in the US for the last 20 years, have met excellent people from Pakistan. Relations in the US between Indians and Pakistanis, should be an example for Indian and Pakistani politicians.
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May 21, 2014 05:00pm
@indian You need to read history and the period from 1050 AD all the way to the Eas India Company. At least my ancestors (Sher Shah Suri, Durani, etc.) were minority (bachoo) but were ruling over the bulk of Hindustani babas. The history should be a good refresher for you to broaden you view...
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May 21, 2014 05:04pm
Narendar Modi will take Indo-Pak relations to greater heights.
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May 21, 2014 05:05pm
@guddi Agreed, but I think people are so hurry let him give at least two year, Country like Pakistan with lot of chaos is not easy to handle
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May 21, 2014 05:15pm
Its great opportunity for both India & Pakistan to establish good relation........Hope Nawaz Sharif do not miss it!
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May 21, 2014 05:18pm
Not sure what Mr Sharif's advisors ask him to do
But he should go
This could mean greater relationship with Mr Modi and his government for next five years. Mr Sharif was able to develop good relationship with Mr Vajpayee, who was from the same party..
Most welcome Mr Sharif..
Though he is no longer Prime Minister but because he wanted to visit Pakistan as he was born there ( Mr Manmohan Singh), so it would again be a nice gesture to invite Mr Singh to visit Pakistan..
The more we talk the more we walk..
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May 21, 2014 05:18pm
@rudra You will soon feel drooped and finally down!
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May 21, 2014 05:21pm
Nawaz sharif must visit India as he has been invited.It will beak the ice.
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May 21, 2014 05:25pm
History repeats, Nawaz is back again in Pakistan BJP in India and I hope Advani get to visit his home land again just hope there is no Musharaf in Kargil and freedom fighters are too busy implementing sharia on the other side of the border
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May 21, 2014 05:47pm
@guddi I believe such elements are present in both the countries who don't want the relations be improved, it all depends on
the general public of both the countries how they pressurize their leaders to have good relations.
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May 21, 2014 05:47pm
He should not go. India and Modi has rebutted all invites from Pakistan to date. There is a belief in New Delhi that Pakistan is desperate for talks and that they, India do not really need to work on the relationship. Rebutting the invitation may make Modi think. Undoubtedly it will delay any 'first meeting' but if the longer term outcomes are more positive as a consequence then it will have ben justified.
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May 21, 2014 06:11pm
@indian yes true brother
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May 21, 2014 06:46pm
On the congratulatory call Nawaz Sharif invited Modi to visit Pakistan as a prime minister but like Manmohan, Modi is reluctant to visit. If Modi doesn
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May 21, 2014 06:57pm
Given the current domestic situation, I doubt if NS will go to India.. Also MMS did not go for NS's swearing-in ceremony and this could be another reason. But if NS defies all odds and go to India, it will be good gesture and will shows his commitment for regional peace and development.
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May 21, 2014 06:57pm
A very bold and positive step.
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May 21, 2014 07:32pm
good move
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May 21, 2014 07:38pm
Well done for the Pakistani Government in taking the lead.
Mr Sharif invited his then counter part when he was elected a year ago. However Mr Singh did not attend.
Lets see How the Pakistan government will respond
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May 21, 2014 07:42pm
An excellent move. May we all prosper as nations and close the gaps. It is beneficial to all.
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May 21, 2014 07:43pm
This is just an invitation to a herd. Pakistan is not just another SAARC country. Nawaz Sharif should have been sent a personal invitation from MOdi.
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May 21, 2014 08:18pm
Mr. Modi, the incoming Prime-Minister (PM) of India has invited SAARC leaders to his inauguration. Although Mr. Modi is mostly known for massacre of Muslims that happened on his watch, but his FIRST step as PM of India is to normalize relations with neighbours. A grand gesture on Mr. Modi's part which should be accepted by all invitees without any analysis. Get friendship a chance to flourish, Best wishes.
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May 21, 2014 08:38pm
Pakistan must grab this great opportunity although there are strong Rightist and obscurantist forces working in both the countries, against bringing about any thaw in relations.
Messers Narendra Modi and Nawaz Sharif, both love their respective countries. However, It is in their mutual interest that the armies, in both the countries, be gradually reduced and inter-State trade encouraged.
Pakistan-Bharat Friendship Zindabad!
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May 21, 2014 09:08pm
This is first step to show the World that Pakistan is under India's supremacy, India has not invited only Nawaz but has also invited heads of all Governments in SAARC to establish its hegemony, Pakistan without a polished Foreign Minister will not realize this covert action and should refuse this invitation politely or simply Nawaz shouldn't go there, if he does then it would mean he is toeing India's line..
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May 21, 2014 09:21pm
First of all I thank Mr. Modi for this great step to invite Mr. Shareef. Then I request Mr. Shareef to accept the invitation and GO. We need to solve our issues and walk together to eliminate the poverty from both countries. Ninety percent poor in both countries have the right to live comfortably. Let their dreams come true. Together we can fight the terrorism and extremism better. Lets do it, the time is right.
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May 21, 2014 09:21pm
There are always good chances of moving countries towards prosperity on the basis of mutual trust leaving the brutal force of terrorism by any side.
Religious terror of any side should not come in the way of growth and development. Terrorism always tries to strike at the heart & minds of economies - just discourages such misadventures...
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May 21, 2014 09:26pm
@Sami Ullah Swat
You have quoted Sher Shah Suri and Durrani which indicate that you are a Pushtoon. You have rightly mentioned that both ruled Hindustan or part of during this period but let me remind you that Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the last ruler of Pakistan and ruled upto Afghanistan before partition took place. The Maharaja defeated Pushtoons in two battles which took place in 1820 and 1823 respectively. The last one in 1823 was known as battle of Nowshera in which Pushtoon tribesmen supported by Muhammad Azem Khan Durrani governor lost the decisive battle though fighting most valiantly against Ranjit Singh's forces.
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May 21, 2014 09:37pm
Nawaz Sharif had also invited his counterpart Mr. Singh for the same purpose but he didn't come. Now it wouldn't be diplomatically correct for Sharif to accept this invitation. He should send Mr. Sartaj Aziz to attand the oath taking ceremony.
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May 21, 2014 09:37pm
Great! Now you can create the illusion of friendship with a visit n then stab your neighbor in its back like in the past!!!
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May 21, 2014 09:44pm
Whether its a formal invitation as SAARC member or personal NS must go ; it will be good for better relation between the two countries. Remember we had the best relationship during Atal Bihari Bachpayee tenure. Lets hope the best.
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May 21, 2014 09:54pm
Good gesture but this is misleading. Modi invited all SAARC South Asian leaders not just Pakistani or Nawaz Shareef.
Please get your facts straight.
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May 21, 2014 10:03pm
I just hope Nawaz Sharif asks Modi how he has made Gujrat almost corruption free. I have heard that when any investor used to land in Gujrat, the person receiving the investor used to hand over the business card of Modi to him and the investor was told to call Modi directly, if anyone asks for bribes. What an example that is for all developing countries to follow. This is how Modi will eradicate bribes in India. What is Mr. Nawaz Sharif doing?.
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May 21, 2014 10:22pm
@Sami Ullah Swati
History didn't start or end with sershah, durrani etc. What about Maharaja Ranjit singh and Dogras who were controlling upto Afghanistan. What about Mauryan and Gupta kings of Magadh (present state of Bihar) whose empire included modern pakistan and afghanistan? Madarsa teachings have made you ppl blind.
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May 21, 2014 10:41pm
I think this is a big opportunity for Mr Sharif, to put a good impression on the new Indian PM. Be friends with him Mr. Sharif, so both the nations can stop the stupid cold war.
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May 21, 2014 10:57pm
@Mahendra Singh
As a Pakistani in USA, I feel that NS should go to India. Aside from the tensions between the two countries, it is an opportunity to rebuild relations and let bygones be bygones. We also need to return favor of Mr. Vajpayee of BJP who visited Pakistan during Sharif's previous government and we saw a ray of hope in his statements. Only a strong and powerful party in both India and Pakistan can make concessions to each other to resolve the burning issues. As they say in America, you gather more mass with honey than with vinegar.
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May 21, 2014 10:59pm
If he doesn't attend he's setting forth a platform for failure.
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May 21, 2014 11:03pm
Great step by Mr. Modi. I hope Mr. Sharif accepts the invitation gracefully and attend the ceremony. This is about time to look forward and build trust. I want to see Pakistan as an economical strong nation and this could be done by having trustworthy relationship with India.
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May 21, 2014 11:18pm
good move by india and pm nawaz should go
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May 22, 2014 12:07am
God bless both india and pakistan !
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May 22, 2014 12:25am
Nawaz Sharif is a good leader and a good politician. It was under his rule that he tried to mend fences with India and along with Vajpayee, they both tried to bring peace to the sub-continent until Musharaff destroyed the budding friendship.
Now BJP is back in power and Nawaz Sharif is back too. Let's hope for the best.
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May 22, 2014 12:29am
Catch 22 situation, let's see how things unfold!
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May 22, 2014 01:03am
@Madhu
PM does not need anyone's permission, but depends on his policy decision by his own.MMS rejected his offer but maybe he will willingly accept to come there now it's all up to him.
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May 22, 2014 01:17am
The gesture of goodwill, if one can call it, has come and the onus is on Pakistan now, but the underlying animosity and an air of distrust will still be felt by both the leaders (that is, if Nawaz Sharif decides to attend the swearing-in ceremony), which is why Mr. Sharif has to consult his aides. However, all said and done, it should signal a positive step in the right direction for all intents and purposes. The other attending leaders should also contribute to the furthering of ties between the South Asian rivals for the betterment of the region as a whole. The event is expected to generate a lot of publicity due the nature of the results of the election in India, and that alone should be an impetus to the Pakistani leader to gain prominence in the scheme of things.
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May 22, 2014 01:19am
Its a very good gesture by Mr. Modi to invite Mr. Sharif and is an excellent start to bond together to resolve all issues and problems between the two neighbours which eventually create an atmosphere wherein people to people relations..trade & business will flourish and both countries will move forward and alienate poverty and develop together economically. I am eagerly awaiting for Mr. Sharif to accept the invitation. We welcome you Sir with open arms and kindness. Looking forward for a new beginning for people on both sides under the positive leadership of both leaders.
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May 22, 2014 01:34am
If there ever will be a war, there will be no winners. As a matter of fact, it could most likely lead to world war! So, it is best to put differences aside and try to reach a common ground. I hope the two leaders will look at what they can agree upon, rather then what they disagree on! And let us build on those areas, where we can work together. With successes achieved in those matters, who knows we might find the differences that we do have, are not that severe after all, and are able to find some resolution there too! I know it sounds very simple and I know matters are very complicated - but let us build on our strengths, to start with!
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May 22, 2014 01:40am
Seeing positive comments from both the sides. Achhe deen aane vale hai!! (That was the slogan of BJP during the election campaign, for those who dont know)
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May 22, 2014 02:01am
@Nilesh Shah brother...not sister
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May 22, 2014 02:12am
good for peaceful relations of both countries!
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May 22, 2014 02:50am
What a refreshing departure from the divisive policies of the past. People of the entire subcontinent share a common and ancient history. Peace and cooperation are the only way forward. Down with military build-ups!
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May 22, 2014 03:42am
Firstly, there should be no indecent hurry in accepting this invitation as if Nawaz was just waiting for it. Secondly, if he goes, he must visit Jama Masjid to show solidarity with Indian Muslims through their current trying times. Thirdly, he must meet the Kashmiri leaders as has been the norm so far to reassure them that the moral, diplomatic and political support to their just struggle will not be reduced.
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May 22, 2014 04:57am
This is a group invitation for "All heads of SAARC nations" including Head of State of SAARC member Nation Pakistan.
At the time of Celeberations Group invitations are sent out-- this does not mean a specific purpose invitation.
This is a Ceremonial invitation.
Heading of this news is misleading.
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May 22, 2014 04:58am
Only statesmanship; without Egos, Emotions and without the sense of Hegemony on both sides is the key to real success in building meaningful cordial relationship between the two countries.
For now it is time to wait and watch further developments taking place in form of reaction of the concerned quarters. However, public in general on both sides wish, want and desire better understanding between the two Governments.
Our Prayers and Good wishes shall always be there for both,Mr. Modi and Mian Saheb.
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May 22, 2014 05:16am
@true blue! Why not?
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May 22, 2014 05:44am
I don't know if Mr Sharif's acceptance or refusal will do anything for peace in subcontinent. But I see a big change on this forum. These comment sections in the past used to be full of angry comments degenerating to abuses hurled from both sides. Am pleasantly surprised to see so many positive comments and a minuscule amount of negative comments. Hope this trend continues and ties between the two neighbors improve.
As an Indian in US, I have friends from Pakistan who are very nice people. It is amazing how your perceptions change when you meet people in person and spend time with them. When I was in India, I would have never imaged being close friends with people from across the border. My salute to people who are in the respective countries, haven't met a soul from the neighboring nation and are still talking positive despite the negativity some incidents create.
Long live humanity. Long live peace.
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May 22, 2014 05:53am
Sharif will have the opportunity to observe how successful countries do their business. It took Sharif months to pick his cabinet , he does not attend his own parliament, he still has appoint head of organizations like NAB, PEMRA etc. This man whom people are calling chai wala is a visionary man. The world will see his vision unfurled soon.
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May 22, 2014 06:47am
@Jalaluddin S. Hussain Way to go brother InShalla apki tamanna puri kare
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May 22, 2014 06:47am
Not at this time sand FM. We need to see how things develop for better relation ship from new Indian government not as big bully.
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May 22, 2014 07:55am
Excellent, The goodwill gesture is highly appreciated, Pakistani PM should initiate the disconnected ties with India from the point of Lahore declaration which was sabotaged by Musharaf through Kagil adventure. We should use our scarce resources for development and not for defense, as for the last five decades we kept citizen under-developed at the cost of huge spending on defense. This process should be revisited and resources should be diverted for development of people and not for defense.
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May 22, 2014 07:59am
@Aziz but the problem is we need many like you, which is rather a big problem.
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May 22, 2014 08:14am
Though the invitation is sent under the traditional face-saving culture of the region yet this is the first and right step towards peace talks with newly elected government.
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May 22, 2014 09:05am
Too many Indian bros are taking this invite personally - please read this article carefully:
" BJP spokeswoman Nirmala Sitharaman said all heads of government from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) "
Modi didn't personally invite Mian Sahib, and Modi's admins couldn't withdraw Nawaz Sharif's inclusion from the total group of SAARC leaders whom are all issued invites. It's part of expected protocol when a new leader is elected, so no need to get overly enthusiastic about this standard operating procedure.
The main issue after all the election hoopla settles down, is what kind of concrete resolutions will Pakistan and India finally come to an agreement on re Kashmir and the Indus Water Treaty, for starts. If neither of these contentious agendas are not resolved once and for all, then Modi as far as Pakistan is concerned is just another do nothing politician.
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May 22, 2014 09:46am
@AZMAISH totally agree.
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May 22, 2014 09:51am
No doubt that Modi realized now that he has frightened from Pakistan. Good that he has bent down and invited Pakistan. Has any body seen Modi speaking in English or Urdu?
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May 22, 2014 10:03am
I think Midi and Nawaz are the guys who can bring real and excellent change to the sub content, as marvelous & Powerful change needs Powerful Govt's, which they are, biggest opportunity for Nawaz and Modi to win the hearts of the people of Subcontent.
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May 22, 2014 10:23am
@indian i am shocked at your comment. if we go by your logic, it was either muslims who ruled or the british over entire sub-continent, so if you are willing to come to that state again, why not:). But referring Pakistan was not there before 70 years, well, lets not go down that road as you never know who is the ultimate loser:)
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May 22, 2014 10:25am
The invitation should be accepted for the sake of Muslims in India.
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May 22, 2014 10:28am
You will be in peace along with your neighbour.
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May 22, 2014 10:33am
Let us hope for the best..
I think both the government want peace and peace can only be restored through dialogues and not through violence.
The next thing can be people to people interaction so that other misunderstanding among common man between both countries can be removed
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May 22, 2014 10:41am
If i have to solve long standing issues, which have not been solved due to limited.. conflicting views ..i would start with a completely open mind. From the scratch, from zero, keeping all options open. That's a wise move from the new govt. But that also signifies a very ambitious and bold move. Its not a mediocre move. It signals the intent to "solve" the issues, instead of keeping them in status quo.
Lets clear the clutter of past and start afresh. Lets finally become friends, if not brother as we really are. Lets do it!
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May 22, 2014 10:55am
Mr. Modi will suffer first political blow by inviting Nawaz Sharif. NS is not the true representative of us Pakistanis. Mr Modi has only reinforced status quo in Pakistan.
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May 22, 2014 10:55am
@Supporter
Its not about bending front of Anyone.....!!
It's just good gesture from INDIA to live peacefully world.
Otherwise u know , what is your current status of Pakistan.
Example: Check Pakistan railway status 1st, then come aggressively. ;)
No need to explain more...!!
Stay peaceful, then you will surely see more good things comes for Pakistan as well as India !!
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May 22, 2014 10:59am
@indian yawn...
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May 22, 2014 11:08am
@Supporter congratulations.....perfect analysis...now go back to your madassa
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May 22, 2014 11:13am
@independentthinker Dont dream. We have creamed u guys thrice and will win hands down anyday even with one hand tied back! Stop living in a utopian world and learn to behave well and deal with us properly.
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May 22, 2014 11:17am
please wont come.
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May 22, 2014 11:19am
commendable gesture nd opportunity for both countries to start afresh with development and progressiveness for the people of both the countries...The situation is so pathetic that we should not reach to any conclusion but sometime and somewhere u start .....There is no need of extra friendly behaviour but why wasting our armed forces on the pitty issues.....Mr. MODI is willing to resolve and focus on Development than why Pakistan left behind by only holding tag of terrorism...At the END Every Country is responsible for their actions and no other country will help him and put in the path of growth....
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May 22, 2014 11:21am
@Akram Pl. remember the pain of Waziristan , Baloochistan , Sindh ,Karachi , Multan the count is high U are not able to save ur ppl. how can u save the world....Get Well Soon
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May 22, 2014 11:26am
This invitation is from BJP to Nawaz Sharif not from Modi alone and it's not a goodwill gesture either but it's a same old Indian political game being played by new players. We have to wait and see how the future will unfold for both countries.
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May 22, 2014 12:11pm
@Indian
Dear friend. Thank you for your kind words.
Our region needs compassion and justice as well as Progress. Compassion and justice like those of Ashoka, AND progress and modernity like Shershah (Farid Khan - please see Wikipaedia) in equal measures. Not one at the cost of other.
If a single countryman of ours sleeps hungry or goes without justice then we have failed as a race.
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May 22, 2014 12:24pm
Good step taken by india should be appreciated. PM Pak should accept it....
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May 22, 2014 12:27pm
@AZMAISH PMs of Pakistan, Shrilanka and Bangladesh are personally Invited by Modi. That is not mentioned here in this news.
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May 22, 2014 12:27pm
Same P.M Manmohan was invited by Nawaz Sharif in oath ceremony. That time BJP opposed, finally Singh refused to join oath ceremony. lets see what happens now
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May 22, 2014 12:31pm
@Pakistani It was MMS working under Italian Madam, This is Modi who works under no one, takes his own decisions
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May 22, 2014 02:08pm
Ball is in Pak/Nawaz Sharif's court if they want to improve relations with India, with a new elected government. But they shouldn't expect more overtures/appeasement in the future if they don't have the right intention on improving relations with India.. they could push Manmohan/Congress around showing their lack of maturity and positive intent and yet they played along...but Modi might not give a second chance...so be sincere in mending relations and taking the peace process forward with the right intent in mind, heart and perception.. else the entire sub-continent is going to pay the price for a long time...you won't get a better PM in Narendra Modi to resolve all problems once and for all!!
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May 22, 2014 02:10pm
@Tight Patloon Then he shouldn't expect Narendra Modi to visit either.. and his invite then has little meaning!!! If Nawas Sharif's priority is to mend relations with India, and not just play around and waste time then he would be keen to take any opportunity presented by the new prime minister...he already wasted time and thus clamped the hands of Manmohan Singh/Congress!
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May 22, 2014 03:32pm
Good gesture. Hope Pak accepts it. Need to progress further and make region more political stable and progressive. Good for people of both the countries.
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May 22, 2014 04:51pm
This invitation from Mr. Modi is indeed a reminder sent to all the countries in South Asia region saying that there regional leader is India and come and join on the occasion of its leader's oath taking ceremony. There is nothing to read much inbetween including the invitation sent to Pakistan. Mr. Modi started to stress India's dominance in the region before taking the PM post officially. Once he is PM officially then will do the same thing in Asia (China and then India ,leaving Japan at third) and Global level during his tenture. He will give more importance to China (As he already visited there thrice for economic development activities), Russia and Japan than US. Especially with Japan he has very good relationship and many believe it may take India- Japan relationship to new high (Since Japan's PM Mr. Abe has only 3 followers in his Twitter account ,one of them is his wife , a politician in Tokyo and India's PM-Elect Mr. Modi)...so in short - This invitation is part of Mr.Modi's stretegy that he starts with a bang in his term.
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May 22, 2014 05:14pm
Nawaz Sharif might as well avail this opportunity & accept the invitation because Narendra Modi is not going to visit Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif like his predecessor AAZardari loves to get out of the country with plane load of his cronies. Another opportunity for Sharif brothers & their families to see exotic India.
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May 22, 2014 06:51pm
It is a formal invitation by the BJP led Indian Government. It is good gesture that will support the initiative to start bilateral talks.If the PM accept this visit then it is the constructive ethical responsibility of the right wing- Opposition parties not to criticize this step because neighbours cannot be changed in any circumstances. We as a nation can only prosperous, when we will come out of ethnocentrism
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May 22, 2014 07:46pm
It shouldn't take that long to decide on the Menu. The choice is Dal Makhani or Saag Aloo. Go for it Sir!
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May 22, 2014 08:43pm
He is no more Modi the "Chaiwala" -- with the heavy mantle of premiership on his improbable shoulders he has matured overnight as a diplomat. Good start.
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May 23, 2014 01:56am
This is a great opportunity for a new relationship. I hope the Pakistani premier goes on this occasion to do exactly what has been stated clearly above.
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May 23, 2014 04:01am
INDIA AND PAK. please make PEACE 4 Ever
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May 23, 2014 06:08am
This is a good move by Mr. Modi and hope Mr. Sharif accepts it. It is time that India and Pakistan live and work as two brotherly countries.
It is time that we all need to say = I love Pakistan and I love India because both are my countries.
Thanks
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May 23, 2014 09:00am
Started hating modi but in journey i saw that this man is right for indian people and he will make them prosper and i pray that he will have success not in india but in the world also..i cannot hate modi now because of media propogenda
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May 23, 2014 09:24am
Mr Sharif should accept this invitation as strengthening bilateral ties should be a priority for both countries.
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May 23, 2014 01:46pm
Very positive gesture from Indian Government. Let trade between two countries happens smoothly . Let universities accept students of each other..If their people here and our people are there..All this confusions will go..
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May 23, 2014 02:24pm
Live free or die.
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May 23, 2014 02:44pm
@Mirza We are better off without his vision-shoud we expect a pakistan basher during his whole campaign any good?
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May 23, 2014 03:10pm
@krishna
You have said something which I believe is the best way forward. If students from Pakistan are allowed to attend IITs and IIMs (of course only on merit), both countries will benefit. Just preparing for IIT entrance exam will make people in Pakistan understand the standard of education in India. As a Pakistani, who is dedicated to improving relations between the two countries, that will be fantastic.
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May 23, 2014 05:11pm
@Abaid Yes it makes sense to get an alternative perspective. Dawn seems to be the only site which is objective, seen some sites which are so blatantly anti-india....
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May 24, 2014 03:07pm
Is ground work for SAARC Common Market same lines as European Common Market .
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May 24, 2014 05:48pm
@Prof. B. K. Singh I hope there were more people like you.
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