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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday accepted India's invitation to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the neighbouring country's prime minister-elect Narendra Modi, a spokesman for the Prime Minister House said.
The decision was made after a series of consultations that the premier held with his close aides.
Advisor to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz told Dawn that he had a series of meetings yesterday and day before with the premier in which the issue was discussed.
Moreover, Foreign Office spokeswoman Tasnim Aslam said details of the visit were being worked out with the Indian authorities, including the composition of the prime minister’s delegation.
She said it was most likely that Aziz would accompany Prime Minister Sharif to New Delhi.
Sharif is among the leaders of member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) invited by Modi. It is the first time in Indian history that leaders from neighbouring countries have been invited to the swearing-in ceremony of a prime minister.
Analysts had asserted that a slightly delayed response was due to the fact that Pakistan would be keen to insert a meaningful agenda during the usually accommodated bilateral talks even if the occasion has a multi-lateral flavour.
FO announces schedule of PM's visit to India
The Foreign office has announced the schedule of the visit of the Prime Minister Sharif to India saying it would be a two day visit.
"In response to the invitation to the oath-taking ceremony of Prime Minister-designate of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, the prime minister would be travelling to New Delhi on May 26, 2014. Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Secretary to the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary would accompany him,” Foreign Office spokeswoman Tasnim Aslam told dawn .com.
The spokesperson said according to the programme received from India, the prime minister will have a bilateral meeting with Modi on the morning of May 27.
She said the premier would also call on the President of India and after completion of his meetings, he would return to Pakistan in the afternoon of May 27, 2014.
Read more
On DawnNews
Comments (251) Closed
May 24, 2014 11:06am
A mature respectful decision. Thank you Mr. Prime Minister for your leadership,
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May 24, 2014 11:08am
I hope this meeting opens up the doors of bilateral talks. No war or nuclear threats can ever solve our problems. It is only through these small steps that we can think of settling down our issues.We would be better nations if both of us are prosperous and peaceful. Ameen.
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May 24, 2014 11:10am
A very good decision. May Allah swt bring peace and prosperityhrough peaceful negotiations to settle all disputes since independence between both nations.
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May 24, 2014 11:10am
Finally ......
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May 24, 2014 11:11am
It is heartening to know that our Prime Minister has accepted the invitation of Modi's swear-in ceremony.This shows Sharif's magnanimity and open-mindedness.We must appreciate this pragmatic gesture.
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May 24, 2014 11:16am
It's a good and bold decision.I as an Indian believe that both the countries should have better & cordial relations ,as it will be good for many purposes .
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May 24, 2014 11:17am
A very good decision. May Allah SWT bring peace and prosperity to the impoverished citizens of Pakistan and India. All disputes between both nations must be resolved through peaceful negotiations and trade should flourish to control inflation.
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May 24, 2014 11:17am
May allah bless our two countries.. and bring peace, progress and prosperity to our millions of people struggling for survival
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May 24, 2014 11:17am
Great News. PM must not only go but go with a positive mind and heart. It would be a great success if we can reach consensus on curtailment of defense expenditure and a stop to obsession of arming ourselves with newer and newer boy toys. Pakistan in spending 25% and india is spending 17% of its budget on defense. Just imagine that if we can stop it, we can be free from dependence on IMF, World bank and other multi lateral donors, we can attain 100% literacy in ten years, we can change on our energy mix in ten years to 100% hydel with per unit cost of 0.02 paisa per unit, we can provide advance free health care for all, homes for homeless and elderly and modernize our agriculture. We can be the net exporter of technical labor force to the world. Possibilities are endless. Let common sense prevail and the likes of JuD and others be finally banished. PM must talk about a certain group that doesnt want it happen and operate behind the shadows, be wary of this group and we'll all reach the point where we can start trusting eachother again.
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May 24, 2014 11:19am
Peace Be Upon Every One
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May 24, 2014 11:20am
A very good decision. May Allah swt bring peace and prosperity through peaceful negotiations to settle all disputes since independence between both nations.
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May 24, 2014 11:20am
In the words of Ravi Shastri, a fine delivery by Modi, equally well played by Sharif. Good cricket allaround
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May 24, 2014 11:23am
Good start, many people here feel BJP will be more decisive as compared to Congress. But too early to speculate anything, this is a party time for now.
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May 24, 2014 11:24am
Probably the only reason I like NS is that he promotes normal relations with India which I believe would solve many of our problems....Lets hope the establishment supports him.
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May 24, 2014 11:25am
Welcom to Delhi, Nawaz sahib.
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May 24, 2014 11:25am
Do you think there was a chance of him saying no to an invitation from Modi ....Thought so....
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May 24, 2014 11:26am
I seriously believe this is a wrong move. The Butcher of Gujarat ran an election on a anti-Pakistan platform and the government should not endorse his platform by showing up like smaller Rajas uses to in Delhi Darbar in Colonial times.
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May 24, 2014 11:28am
@iftakhar malik ........100% RIGHT. As an Indian, i agree that the issues between us two nations needs to be solved and the two put on the path to growth and peace. Only talks across the table with give and take attitude will resolve the endless animosity between Pakistan and India. After all we share the same blood and are the same people. Fighting brings only misery and grief and puts back the progress of the two nations. Only enemies will benefit from this endless and miserable conflict between India and Pakistan
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May 24, 2014 11:29am
Does army back this??? if so great decision otherwise another blame on present govt while announcing martial law......
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May 24, 2014 11:30am
this proves that nawaz sharif is better than man mohan singh
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May 24, 2014 11:32am
india should be carefull last time we wanted friendship, nawaz did or allowed kargil operation.
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May 24, 2014 11:34am
Well begun is half done. Gracious of Nawaz Sharif to accept Modi's invitation. Thank You.
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May 24, 2014 11:37am
WOW.....WOW............WOW ......Pm Mr. Nawaz Shariff made a very smart decision. I hope relation between India and Pakistan may become very friendly. This will help both country and also people of Pakistan and India. (Inshallah) Lets hope for the best.
Sincerely, Ashraf Mirza (USA) ashwmirza@yahoo.com
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May 24, 2014 11:39am
Welcome to India Mr Prime Minister. We Indians sincerely hope that your visit will open up a new era of peace and harmony not only in both countries but in the entire region.
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May 24, 2014 11:42am
SAARC can have a bigger vision and form the new European union like regional body
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May 24, 2014 11:42am
A very bold step by by Modi and equally bold reciprocation by Nawaz Sharif. A good beginning, but a long way to go. Hope better sense prevails than ever increasing animosity. May the both nations prosper with peace and friendship!
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May 24, 2014 11:46am
A Memorable day and week in Indo-Pak relations, thank you Mr. Sharif for accepting the invite, sensible people on both sides will be jubilant today- Aman ki Asha turning into reality, although not too much should be expected from this but surely it will open more doors ahead between our countries.
We Indians Welcome you Mr. Prime Minister...
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May 24, 2014 11:47am
Someone has to take the initiative, and I am proud that it was our side which took it. May God create peace among us neighbours
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May 24, 2014 11:48am
It would have been very ,very unfortunate if it had been otherwise
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May 24, 2014 11:48am
Welcome to India Sir !
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May 24, 2014 11:49am
Nawaz Sharif is shameless as majority of Pakistanis, they have not left any shame in their hearts. Modi regularly abuses pakistan even after that Nawaz Sharif coming to India.
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May 24, 2014 11:50am
Without talking or respect there is no chance of improvement. In that respect it is good that respect is shown to invite and accepted by the other side. It sounds strange but there is a lot more chance that BJP will make changes in the relationship then the former party did. For peace you need strong hawks and nothing else.
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May 24, 2014 11:51am
Good move by NS. Had he declined it would have taken much effort to kick off a positive initiative. Modi the tactician he is, used his swearing in ceremony constructively to bolster relations without having to see to the checks and balances skeletons of the past.
Don't be mistaken, he will take the initiative for the process because he is a leader unlike MMS but will equally be severe on adversity. He is no AB Vajpayee.
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May 24, 2014 11:51am
It is a sad day in the history of Pakistan. Sharif brothers have no shame and are not representative of the people of Pakistan.
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May 24, 2014 11:55am
A very good decision.
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May 24, 2014 11:56am
A very good decision.
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May 24, 2014 12:00pm
Wow!! Hats off to you Mr. Sharif. Only peace can bring development and prosperity in the region that has a great potential to grow. We have had enough with the third world terminology thrusted on us by so called western powers to let us remain poor, meek and feeble. But if we grow mature and keep our differences aside and work together then this region could become a powerful one.
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May 24, 2014 12:01pm
Benazir Bhutto once said, 'Democracies don't fight democracies'. I think the democracy of Pakistan has matured. Credit goes to Mian Nawaz Sharif. Let there be more people to people interaction.
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May 24, 2014 12:02pm
I dont agree with the decision. Its too early as Mr. Modi's government has not started functioning yet. We dont know which way will he move forward. Mr. Modi is the person directly reposible for Gujrat riots in which thousands of people were killed, many of them Muslims. Mr. Sharif's will be fruitful only if Mr. Modi returns the favour.
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May 24, 2014 12:03pm
Typical MODI style. Clear goals. Waste no time. Start from Day One.....
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May 24, 2014 12:04pm
Great show of statesmanship by Nawaz Sharif, salute. If Pakistan has seen democracy for long this region would have prospered in peace. The self interest of Pak military are so deeprooted they end up thwarting such efforts at every stage.
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May 24, 2014 12:06pm
A very good decision. May Allah swt bring peace and prosperity to the impoverished citizens of India and Pakistan. The peaceful negotiations to settle all disputes since independence between Nuclear armed nations is the only solution.
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May 24, 2014 12:10pm
Congratulations to Modi for this remarkable landslide electoral victory.We are grateful to his gracious act of inviting our PM over to his swearing-in ceremony and our PM's mellifluous response in return.
Long Live Indo-Pak Relationship!
Hats off to both leaders!
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May 24, 2014 12:12pm
it is bold step among all of us, we are just spending money for our arms without solution,politician and pakistani people should understand the american game,if we hav(SAARC) good relation,in future america and other european countries are insignifikent.
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May 24, 2014 12:15pm
Wonderful decision taken by Mr. Sharif and all other big parties involved in the decision making..
Big step towards reducing the hostility between the two great nations of Asia and hopefully we can see the two nations taking part in bringing peace ,prosperity and harmony in the South Asia in future ..
I expect the hostility between Pakistan and India just goes away as the hostility between Germany and France has gone .
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May 24, 2014 12:15pm
It is good to note that Mr Sharif has accepted the invitation. Welcome to India Mr Sharif ! Hope this marks the beginning of a mature relationship to ensure lasting peace and economic and cultural growth between the people of the two countries. Thwarting the designs and intentions of those who don't want this kind of pragmatic step should be an on-going exercize to build trust between the two countries, the time for which has come. It is only the bigots and those who can only thrive on hatred and destruction who could come in the way. We should prove that the will of the leaders and the general public is much greater and do everything possible to promote harmony and peace in the sub-continent.
While the world is progressing, it would be utterly shameful and retrograde not to look forward towards peace, growth and development of our peoples and doing everything possible to achieve this. Don't we deserve this ?
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May 24, 2014 12:18pm
Sensible.
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May 24, 2014 12:19pm
A center right politician can understand a center right politician better. We hope to have a good start.
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May 24, 2014 12:20pm
Shahbaz along with PM
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May 24, 2014 12:20pm
Let us talk business. Let their be quantum jump in the bilateral trade among all SAARC members. SAARC can have a bigger vision and form the new European union like regional body. Prayers.
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May 24, 2014 12:20pm
Wonderful......Looking ahead for new chapter on Indo-Pak relationship. I am Indian staying in Dubai...while in India, I had different perspective about Pakistan but after moving to Dubai, In my initial days, most people who helped me were Pakistanis....They have very high respect for Indians and extremely co-operative.....Lets leave past behind and work on new partnership ...Thank You
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May 24, 2014 12:22pm
Even if it is going to be a photo-op it is worth it. A good gesture from both sides. Let the two governments open up trade and more people to people contact that could be the best insurance against future conflicts.
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May 24, 2014 12:25pm
I sincerely hope that this first step leads toward giant leaps forward. Both nations and the whole region has suffered a lot due to animosity between the two countries.
Foreign and some domestic elements would rather see India and Pakistan fight and keep the region unstable. Utmost commitment will be required from both sides that peace initiative not be side tracked by such elements.
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May 24, 2014 12:26pm
So, will there be cricket?
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May 24, 2014 12:28pm
Nawaz Sharif is not legitimate prime minister of Pakistan. He came through rigged elections and will only represent Ittefaq Foundry and his Business companies in India
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May 24, 2014 12:30pm
Nawaz did not have the courage to say No to Modi nor the grace to say YES spontaneously like others did. One hopes that he will have the courage to at least meet the leaders of frightened Indian Muslims and Kashmiri separatist leaders.
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May 24, 2014 12:30pm
Mr. Nawaz Shareef has taken a wise decision but at the same time he should be well prepared to face the over bold Indian media. He must ask for remedy for false allegation for anything going wrong in India.They immediately make movies on these topics also. Most important example is that of Samjhota Express.
Its a good beginning if India acts cordially. Best of luck and good wishes for better relationship between the two countries.
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May 24, 2014 12:33pm
Nawaz Sharief Staysafe, the right-wingers may be upset with you, hence stay safe best wishes from India.
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May 24, 2014 12:33pm
Good decision.
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May 24, 2014 12:40pm
When the emperor is being crowned, the vasal needs to be in attendance without doubt.
He has no other choice.
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May 24, 2014 12:41pm
Is this a swearing in or a coronation with all the vassals from neighbourhood lined up?
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May 24, 2014 12:42pm
It is very good step taken by both the leaders of Pakistan and India and Insah Allah all disputes will be resolved very soon.
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May 24, 2014 12:44pm
@Sufi Musafir
Well said.
Once again thanks to Nawaz Sharif and Narendra Modi for taking efforts in improving relations.
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May 24, 2014 12:48pm
Moan Mohan Singh turned down the invitation to oath taking ceremony Of Mr. Nawaz Sharif so i think the Prime Minister should thank and then excuse Mr. Modi as he may not be able to attend it due to his official engagements. He should visit India at any comfortable time since they are good neighbor.
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May 24, 2014 12:49pm
Mature decision from mature politician
Respect!
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May 24, 2014 12:51pm
In the long run, Pakistan will pay the price of this poor decision in Kashmir and Afghanistan.
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May 24, 2014 12:51pm
Great decision hope for the peace
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May 24, 2014 12:53pm
Good Step by nawaz sarif to take decision for attending indian pm oath ceremeony
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May 24, 2014 12:55pm
Well done Mr. Nawaz Shraiff. Pakistan and India must stand together to beat the nefarious goals of elements who spread poverty and untold misery in the subcontinent. Together Modi and Nawaz are capable of reaching a major breakthrough in the sub continent.
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May 24, 2014 12:59pm
Too much time taken to decide.....
1. Though Nawaz Sharif and people of Pakistan wanted to say yes but he was hesitant due to the attitude(?) of army and hardliners.
2. A no would have left Pakistan embarrassed as that would suggested negative attitude of Pakistan.
3. Only YES was the last option.
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May 24, 2014 01:06pm
Wise decision as good relation are imperative for both countries govt and masses.
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May 24, 2014 01:07pm
Good for Sharif Bros & Co. only. It will open new avenues for their business.
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May 24, 2014 01:09pm
@Pakistanwala Now Nawaz Sharief is on our(Indian) side.
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May 24, 2014 01:09pm
@alladitta Also SAARC's geographic territorial area is bigger than EU
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May 24, 2014 01:12pm
Its a right decision at the right time and a very wise move by Mr. Modi and his aids.
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May 24, 2014 01:16pm
Good decision... let the brothers always together...
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May 24, 2014 01:16pm
Great move most welcome Mr. Shareef.
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May 24, 2014 01:18pm
I request Pakistanis to forget about territorial disputes and focus on trade relations between two countries because the poor of two countries are suffering they need to be take out of poverty. Fight poverty. If Pakistan focus on territorial disputes they there will be tensions and trade will not progress and people in both countries will be poor.
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May 24, 2014 01:19pm
Hopefully Prime Minister Narendra Modi's well begun acclimatization with the galaxy of SAARC Prime Ministers will bring prosperity in the sub-continent of India and Pakistan and in it's close vicinity.
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May 24, 2014 01:21pm
Nawaz Sharif should have sent his envoy or representative e.g. Sartaj Aziz or Mr. Fatmi, but should have restrained from going himself.
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May 24, 2014 01:22pm
@Harsh Vardhan let's keep Nawaz out of this at least. Kargil was the handiwork of Musharraf at a time when India-Pak were building good relations with Nawaz playing an important role in it.
It is better to forget what happened in the past and look forward to a better future. It is in both, our country's, as well as Pakistan's interest.
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May 24, 2014 01:22pm
Definitely a good move by both.
But it is irony that BJP can afford to be more friendly with Pakistan than Congress can because there is no opposition when BJP does it.
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May 24, 2014 01:34pm
A very good decision despite the pressure from army.
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May 24, 2014 01:37pm
A very bold decisio by Mr. PM equally supported by main opposition party PPP as well.
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May 24, 2014 01:39pm
A very mature decision. At least, Mr. Nawaz Sarif has shown some spine against the fundamentalists...
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May 24, 2014 01:40pm
@Sanjeev . Man, you are smart!!!
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May 24, 2014 01:40pm
British divide and rule us. We rule our self united with pride.
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May 24, 2014 01:41pm
Modi is clearly eager for recognition by cultured high-class leaders like Mian Sahib. I hope our PM will not throw away this opportunity, he should maje sure he comes back from Delhi with a commitment on the core issue of Kashmir. He should withhold any recognition until then.
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May 24, 2014 01:42pm
@Sanjeev Mr. bowled a googly very accurately.
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May 24, 2014 01:42pm
GREAT BE WISE AND DO NOT DO WHAT YOU DID IN PAST
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May 24, 2014 01:44pm
@Luke Furtado the army could have just told him not to go
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May 24, 2014 01:46pm
FIRST TIME A GOOD & TIMELY DECISION BY NAWAZ SHARIF, LETS HAVE THE BEST OF RELATIONS WITH INDIA.
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May 24, 2014 01:48pm
@Sanjeev you're not too smart
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May 24, 2014 01:48pm
@Rajesh . Nice one. Modi style, as in Gangnam Style!!
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May 24, 2014 01:49pm
great
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May 24, 2014 01:55pm
india welcomes you
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May 24, 2014 02:02pm
Good decision by PM Nawaz. Pakistani nation stands behind you.There is no place for hate when peace can prevail.
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May 24, 2014 02:06pm
Good decision.people from PTI confused party will go on raising issues of rigging. NS great leader and legitimate. PTI is looking short cuts and this party can never win elections as leadership is loosing grace while blaming everybody
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May 24, 2014 02:07pm
Well mentality and nature of person cannot change, so you accept it or not there will be no fruitful result
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May 24, 2014 02:09pm
Wonderful move by both the countries.. Hope our Both the countries will be more friendly. If India & Pakistan join as Great friends no power in this world can defeat us. If both are friends citizens of both the countries can move freely towards both the countries.It also make developments of both the countries in all aspects. All SAARC Countries should unite like European union.
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May 24, 2014 02:12pm
@Sanjeev Army never held him back. It was his wise decision to take everyone on board before accepting the invite.
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May 24, 2014 02:13pm
I wish....Both the leaders meet with plan to start resolving core issues quickly...........both countries have problematic people who do not want peace......let them voice........just surprise them by resolving issue in a jiffy.....I feel this is not that difficult to do so......
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May 24, 2014 02:15pm
Wishing a Pleasant stay in India dear Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif . This is really a Great moment in the history of both the countries. You are more Generous & Broad Minded than India's Ex Prime Minister Manmohan singh the "Robot" who rejected ur invitation to join ur swear in ceremony. Hope under Narendra Modi's leadership both the countries will have fruitful relation ship.
From, Sujith Pillai ,I am an Indian National resides in Dubai.
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May 24, 2014 02:22pm
Good decision. Glad to see maturity on both sides.....hopefully all issues are resolved and the subcontinent is peaceful.
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May 24, 2014 02:24pm
time will tell the sincerity behind Modi s invitation...bcz in the past such invitations had provided another argument for persons who only want to belie the world ...however its good to see cordial relations btw tow neighbouring countries..Hope for the best.
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May 24, 2014 02:24pm
Finally pak pm got approval from Army and ISI. .. Good that he is coming to India but the delay in approval proved once again who holds the power in pak.
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May 24, 2014 02:28pm
Funny comments here, everyone praising PM and his so called leadership. WHY ARE WE THE ONLY ONES to take a step back. NS send the invitation to India on his oath-taking which ended up in BIN without a second thought.
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May 24, 2014 02:30pm
Mian Sahib thinks he can appease Modi by showing these kind of gestures - British prime minister Chamberlane also thought the same towards Hitler. Pakistanis should learn something from history.
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May 24, 2014 02:31pm
Indeed thankful for the Gracious act of PM, Pakistan. Inshallah better ties lie ahead....
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May 24, 2014 02:32pm
Let's see what happens after the visit. Will there be change in relations or continue as it was before. It will be exciting.
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May 24, 2014 02:34pm
Good decision by PM
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May 24, 2014 02:37pm
when the pakistani forces were in kargill that time he went to us to please his masters and accepted to withdraw .Now he will definitly go becos he is a weak prime minister.
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May 24, 2014 02:38pm
A great decision, hope it only gets better from hereon.
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May 24, 2014 02:39pm
@Harsh Vardhan shame on this distasteful comment. Any Pakistani is a welcome guest in my homeland, and more so the Prime Minister.
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May 24, 2014 02:40pm
I read the news item and the comments of the readers. It only shows how immature and emotional this nation is.
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May 24, 2014 02:40pm
Nawaz Sharif,You Must Show Some Character.
Narendra Modi Will never Be Helpful To Pak,Afghan Or Any Muslims or Muslim Country
Even Sheikh Haseena,Given Excuse!!
Modi is Clever Man,So NS Hav to be More Clever.
India-Pakistan friendship is Next to Imposibl.
I personally feel,Nothing Is Worst Than Our Indian Media!!
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May 24, 2014 02:50pm
NS should have sent THE PRESIDENT - since he is the head of state, not PM! But who lets go of a photo-op? Modi wants legitimacy from his neighbors and the world. He already has it from Indians. He is going to be extra tough on Pakistan - he is no Vajpayee and NS should have known better than to accept the invitation - Modi is likely to raise all sorts of controversial issues (Hafiz Saeed, Mumbai, free trade - none of which we have a good answer for) that our press is likely to throw under carpet. NS has enough problems at home than to create a new one.
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May 24, 2014 02:52pm
Good decision. Hope this becomes the way to go in Pakistan.
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May 24, 2014 02:57pm
Good diplomacy by Mr Modi. NS had no option but to accept the invitation. Now Mr Modi should demand action against Hafeez saeed, daood ibraheem and against those who had beheaded Indian soldiers.
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May 24, 2014 03:01pm
Goofy meets brains.
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May 24, 2014 03:12pm
Excellent decision, highly appreciable, government should initiate dialogue with India from the point of Lahore Declaration with Vajpaee, which was intentionally disconnected by Pervez Musharaf through Kargil adventure. We have no option except friendship with India, if we divert our attention from high spending on defense towards development it will be in the interest of both nations. Long live INida and Pakistan friendship, not only with India we must establish cordial relation with all south Asian countries.
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May 24, 2014 03:12pm
It Is ground work for SAARC Common Market in the same line as European Common Market , good for every one
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May 24, 2014 03:35pm
Respected, and amazing decision from Pak Prime. We will go hand in hand , develop a deep sense of trust, and understanding, raise up to fight for the poor and common man of both the countries. The youngsters in both the countries need respectable backing , and support from the goverment to meet each one's aspirational goal in life....Love and be love by all
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May 24, 2014 03:39pm
Mighty big of Pak PM to accept the invitation after his invite to Indian PM to attend the oath taking ceremony was ignored. Hopefully under Modi, India will behave a bit mature.
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May 24, 2014 03:40pm
Pakistanis, you have no idea what you are up to.
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May 24, 2014 03:40pm
Indians theres no rocket science in making better relationship, all you have to do is give Pakistan back its muslim province "Jammu and Kashmir" and then were best friends forever and will boost our economy and become super power.
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May 24, 2014 03:43pm
Sensible move, however the spoilsports have already got into action with the attack on the Indian counselate in Herat, last time MNS invited MMS there we're beheadings immediately thereafter; am afraid some crazy actions by terrorists are in the offing to derail the peace initiative... Hope this time the vested interests can be kept in check!
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May 24, 2014 03:45pm
@Jahangir234@gmail.com Sheikh Haseena have given any excuse,on 26 she will be in japan as per her advanced scheduled tour much before the modi's invitation.so she has a genuine reason to skip but took care to send her one of most senior member i.e parliament speaker to Mr Modi's ceremony but NS have no such things to make excuse.
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May 24, 2014 03:49pm
India is inviting Nawaz Sharif but does not give visas to Pakistanis easily. In New York they refused visa to my family saying get a letter from Pakistani embassy stating you do not have a Pakistani passport then you can travel on US passport. My parents are in 80's and they were denied also. Come on India, what can a 80 year old do to you. Have some common sense. If people start traveling between the two countries freely, a lot of misunderstandings will clear up and trade should be allowed to flourish. We cannot be suspicious of each other. Trust is the corner stone of a good relationship. We should do due diligence but allow people to mingle. It is almost 70 years since Pakistan was created. We cannot live in past and still hate each other. Just imagine if India and Pakistan settle their differences and work together, it will create an economy comparable to Europe. All these billions that are being spent on arms and military can be utilized to eradicate hunger and poverty on both sides. Let's hope NS and Modi really work together and solve this Indo-Pak dilemma once and forever.
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May 24, 2014 03:49pm
@SamKelly What needed to be given to Pakistan was given in 1947 during partition
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May 24, 2014 03:50pm
History sometime offers some chances to solve historical blunders
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May 24, 2014 03:52pm
Aplausable dicision by the PM! In order to stabilize economic and political ties, need bilateral and stratigic gestures in the larger interest of both sides. But Islamabad must be avoided to concede any monopoly in the region.
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May 24, 2014 03:54pm
This is a shameful decision by PM, Pakistan is kicked by Indian Govt and Indian Media all the time, how dare they talk to them when they are not respective. Indian Govt is saying Pakistanis are terrorists. First they should show some respect to us and stop Pakistan bashing campaign, only then we should talk with them. Pakistani media and govt never do Indian bashing. PM please re-think or you want to be insulted there?
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May 24, 2014 03:57pm
PM and his so called advisers are simply inept. Meeting at a later time where you can discuss Serious issues facing both countries would have been better venue.
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May 24, 2014 04:11pm
Any free foreign trip and Nawaz and coterie are on it. How plane loads will he take this time. What a waste of government money.
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May 24, 2014 04:11pm
Good decision from Pakistan prime minister.
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May 24, 2014 04:12pm
Good move, win for democracy, loss for military dictatorship and terrorists.
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May 24, 2014 04:13pm
There has been long discussion whether Mr. Sharif , Honourable Prime-Minister will come to India or not on Indian channels. The time taken by Mr. Sharif in deciding itself shows that how much distance India and Pakistan has to travel for peaceful coexistance. Afterall , friendly relations among neighbouring countries are not a equation between two premiers but must have backing of a large part of population
The guss work by people including experts and ordinary ones on both sides, is a reflection that how much interest people are taking in it-in other words , how much they want this visit.
It is not that all or even any problem will be solved but being Nawaz Sharif a businessman also and Mr Modi has a business mind and economy first attitude(even in his ganga cleaning plan keeping eye on tourism) , it is good . Real life example shows that a lot of good things can happened over a cup of tea , informal chit-chat.
Many many congratulations to Mr Sharif
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May 24, 2014 04:15pm
Delhi belongs to all, to past to present and to future
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May 24, 2014 04:18pm
For peace in the region Pakistan has to let go of its expansionist attitude in Kashmir, Siachen and Sircreek.
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May 24, 2014 04:18pm
Abuses are gifts , if the person does not taken to whom it is given, it go back to the giver
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May 24, 2014 04:18pm
I hope he travels by car. On his way meet a few Indians to broden his outlook.
Shafiq
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May 24, 2014 04:19pm
Mubarkha!! I hope this opens up new doors for both countries!
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May 24, 2014 04:22pm
Well!!!!! It's not that Nawaz Shariff never wanted to visit. I am sure Mr. Shariff was dreaming about it before even INDIAN elections were called.........
Finally his dream came true.
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May 24, 2014 04:34pm
If Kashmir is the only contentious issue for which Pakistan is looking for a breakthrough, then i suspect that such expectations will be hard to meet.
India will not relent on Kashmir, and Pakistan will not give up its claim either. We are heading for no doorway route perhaps.
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May 24, 2014 04:43pm
It means that establishment also sees the sense in cordial bilateral relations between India and Pakistan. So many things clarified by this move.
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May 24, 2014 04:49pm
It is too good to start a new era of mutual
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May 24, 2014 04:51pm
Are we serious here? No true Pakistani will validate Nawaz's trip to the ceremony of Modi... People who commented here forget that this Butcher got his votes on an anti-Pakistan sentiment?
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May 24, 2014 04:52pm
This is a good decision. When someone extends hand of friendship it should be reciprocated positively. This will help create a friendly environment leading towards peaceful settlement of all issues. Good working & just relationship between these two neighbours will help both
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May 24, 2014 04:57pm
Thanks Mr Sharif, history will see you as a leader who went beyond cliches. If we are friends the world would envy us. Forget about hardliners, they are on both sides.
One more request, please carry forward the momentum.
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May 24, 2014 05:04pm
Wise decision!! Bravo Prime Minister!!!
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May 24, 2014 05:06pm
Mian Sahib : Go ahead , attend inauguration ceremony, take along a plane load of your cabinet ministers. Enjoy the trip.Newly elected PM of India Narendra Modi of BJP, is not interested in any serious negotiation, at least not now. You might get a license for exporting sugar to India - a favourable trade benefit for Sharif Enterprise.
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May 24, 2014 05:14pm
@Dr Mansoor Qasim
Sir, Hold your horses, Mian Nawaz Sharif is not Barack Obama that India will feel honoured by his presence. MNS represents a country which is truly a 3rd world country, surviving on life line thrown by World Bank & IMF.It has no clout in the world affairs. If he does not show up, India won't miss his presence, celebration will go on without him.
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May 24, 2014 05:16pm
I would go back to Musharaf's time when he walked to Mr. Vajpayee and shook his hand in front of 1000's cameras. What happened then. This was a very clever move from Modi so he can picture his case of killing 1000s of his own people and still be a good man. Once a killer always a killer. You are talking about democracy, do you know, your PM-elect is not allowed to travel to US and the reason is? yes you are right, killing innocent people of Gujrat. You are calling your nation a peaceful nation, wake up from your sleep..
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May 24, 2014 05:19pm
A very good decision.
Wise counsel appears to have prevailed.
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May 24, 2014 05:39pm
It is good to visit India by nawaz.
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May 24, 2014 05:45pm
@Abhijeet
Undoubtedly the people of Pakistan are friendly and they are suffering from terrorism as well
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May 24, 2014 05:46pm
@Raj I am sure that the bilateral talks will not resolve the dispute of Kashmir or waters for another 100 years.
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May 24, 2014 05:50pm
@Shah Wrong move? No. I would like you to be my honoured guest for the occasion in Chennai to see the real picture. SK
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May 24, 2014 05:52pm
this is most expected goodwill between two countries .we hope this meeting between two premiers open a new gate way . i praise mr nawaz sharif accepted the invitation to attend the oath taking ceremony of indian prime minister mr narendra modi. the people of two countries will prosperous and peaceful .
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May 24, 2014 05:53pm
@imran ali Because he is a trainee prime minister.
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May 24, 2014 05:54pm
@Pakistanwala HOW LONG ARE YOU GOING TO BE IN A STATE OF SELF DENIAL? YOU CAN NEVER PROGRESS WITH THIS MINDSET. IT IS ALL ABOUT GIVE AND TAKE. SK
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May 24, 2014 05:55pm
@alladitta India is a Shark (among SAARC) countries.
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May 24, 2014 05:56pm
@Shah
You are making up this one . Arn't you?
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May 24, 2014 06:05pm
@Jaweed
Nawaz Sharif is now the senior statesman of SAARC nations and has made a nice and wise move. Narendra Modi can learn a thing or two about foreign policy issues from him too. The art of making deals /talks with the enemy like Talibanis has given him lots of experience which he can pass on to Modi for the good of India.
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May 24, 2014 06:06pm
@Ahmer Please stop calling indian muslims are frightened. I am an Indian muslim and I am not scare of anything. I pray Allah (PBUH) to remove your ignorance.
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May 24, 2014 06:09pm
@Jahangir234@gmail.com Don't be so na
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May 24, 2014 06:13pm
I hope this visit would produce a congenial atmosphere between the two countries that always in the real sense claim to settle the issues in the interest of two nations. So we Pashtun want both sides to shun their differences which is not only beneficent but also a slap on those who wants them in the loggerhead and destroyed.
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May 24, 2014 06:23pm
@Raj - well said. I am glad to see good people exist on both side of the border, a chance of progress for the benefit of the poor masses still exist. When public opinion changes and asks the polititians for peace, only then it will happen. PEACE is the way to go.
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May 24, 2014 06:26pm
@SamKelly the most third class comment.
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May 24, 2014 06:29pm
@Indian Muslim - my friend we worry about you as well and would like to take steps so no harms comes your way. Lets hope for the peace and hope no third party will attempt to derail it. There are a lot of forces who would not want peace to prevail as history. No matter what some one says a good gesture must be taken as good. Modi's invitation was a good start so lets give it a chance. Sullah-i-Hadibiya is a good example when our Prophet (PBUH) accepted it. PEACE
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May 24, 2014 06:31pm
@Shah Next time whosoever becomes PM of Pakistan shud invite Indian PM and they shud reciprocate it. So no small Rajas or big Rajas...
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May 24, 2014 06:31pm
You are welcome to India Mr. Sharif! Great decision on your part to be a part of the occasion. Having big hearted PMs on both sides will benefit the people they govern. And keep coming back.
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May 24, 2014 06:36pm
Let us co-operate and get that oil from Iran. Both countries will prosper. Also Kudos to NS for accepting the invitation.
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May 24, 2014 06:43pm
@Indian Muslim FYI people in Pakistan and the leadership has more sense than saying NO, this goes in favour of Indian Muslims as well, you cannot fight fire with fire, can you?
.
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May 24, 2014 06:45pm
Let the day May 26, 2014 be a new dawn in the relationship between India and Pakistan. We have had too much strife and conflict which has to be put behind us. Mutual respect and tolerance is the need of the hour. At the same time, both countries should recognize their differences and must resolve to narrow them as much as possible.
Good Luck and hoping to see progress under the stewardship of Mr. Modi and Mr. Sharif.
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May 24, 2014 06:55pm
@Bilal Awan Thank you for living in in a fictitious past. Must be fun.
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May 24, 2014 06:56pm
Good decision Mr. Prime Minister. It is a uphill task to have normal and meaningful relation with India. Only a great helmsman can take up such a task, keeping Mr. Modi's reputation and stance in view. We trust you. We pray and hope for the best,
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May 24, 2014 07:03pm
@Ahmer
Agree. Similarly, as and when Mr Modi is invited to Pakistan, hopefully, he will be allowed to meet the frightened and displaced non - Muslims as well as non- Sunni Muslims. In this way, those people will be able to share their grievances against the Pakistani State and Mr Modi will be able to intervene on their behalf
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May 24, 2014 07:03pm
Modi did well by inviting NS. It forced Pakistan to show the world whether democracy runs the show there OR ISI/the army. The delay obviously shows that NS got the needed "permissions" to go to India. Proving beyond doubt that Pakistan is still run by the army. Thw world would only be concerned vis-a-vis Pakistan for containing the global export of terrorism from its land. Otherwise there is no reason to coddle Pakistan which also happens to be a failed state.
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May 24, 2014 07:09pm
@SamKelly muslim province ?? It became a muslim province by driving out the Kashmiri Pandits .. And don't forget the hindus of Jammu and the Buddhists of Ladakh .. It was ruled by a Hindu king before 1947.. How come it is a muslim province.. The people of Kashmir are fed up with Indo-Pak politics.. They want to be independent from both of them
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May 24, 2014 07:11pm
From the comments and news articles, people are fed up of the animosity between both nations. Its time to rise up and be normal. I am not a day dreamer and hence would not say both nations will be BFFs. But at least they can put one step forward to normal neighbourly relations. Good job to Modi/his advisers and Sharif/his advisers
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May 24, 2014 07:22pm
If close aides of PM mean Khawaja pair of ministers or Khurram Dastagir or Ch Nisar then the visit is doomed. I think Pakistan PM should only go to India if any serious progress is expected on issues between the two countries. It was an unnecessary political move on Modi's part to invite NS. All Modi's campaign was anti-Pakistan and anti-Muslim. It is just that BJP loves to claim that Muslims voted for it and Pakistan PM was present in the oath taking ceremony. Pakistan PM should not go. Simple.
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May 24, 2014 07:23pm
Manmohan declined Sharif invitation, still Sharif accepted Indian invitation shows Pakistan has a big heart. Its time India take a step toward peace.
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May 24, 2014 07:36pm
@Shah may I suggest you join forces with Arundhati Roy? She being the princess of negativism and you the prince of paranoia you will make a fantastic pair.
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May 24, 2014 07:41pm
We are traditional brothers, good relationship is good for both the countries. I guess this gesture will help to rethink some of the hardliners from both sides.
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May 24, 2014 07:41pm
Prime Minister Sharif, I thank you for the bold decision. All we want is normal relationship with our all neighbors so we all can prosper simultaneously.
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May 24, 2014 07:54pm
Corrupt faces of sub-continent
Expect nothing concrete from them
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May 24, 2014 08:04pm
...how heartening this news is that Mr Modi was convinced to invite Pak PM and more than appreciable is Mr N.Sharif overcomes hate inertia in Pakistani Rights' ranks whether in State or non-state sections. One may wish freezing tempers get warmly humanized through such opening of arms.
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May 24, 2014 08:06pm
Very good decision. Let Modi respond with an olive branch. Ball is in Modi's court now.
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May 24, 2014 08:09pm
@Shah, if we live in past then we will never progress in anything. Now the ball is in Modi's court let him show the world that he will more responsible PM than a CM.
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May 24, 2014 08:17pm
@Harsh Vardhan Harsh, I'm betting for that.
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May 24, 2014 08:21pm
@Akhter Husain Akhter, nor we intent to, however, it is important for a channel for dialog to open. They way in India we are fed up of sicular a.k.a politics of Congress, hopefully someday, folks of both countries are fed of this and decide to drop this issue and sign a bilateral agreement of open border for 'integrated' Kashmir. I don't see any other way.
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May 24, 2014 08:22pm
I also sincerely wish & hope he stays there.
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May 24, 2014 08:22pm
@Ahmer Frightened Indian Muslin :) joke of the day. You watch too much Congress/SP Channel.
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May 24, 2014 08:28pm
Good news. Hopefully, India and Pakistan can work together to grow their economies together. Poverty is the common enemy - India and Pakistan must unite to
1. Eliminate hunger in both India and Pakistan.
2. Eliminate homelessness in India and Pakistan
3. Ensure that all Indians and Pakistanis have access to a safe home and a roof over their head, access to sanitation, running water, electricity, safe drinking water, enough food to eat for all
Mr Modi and Sharif need to work closely with each other, work together to make #1-3 happen for every man, woman and child in India and Pakistan.
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May 24, 2014 08:32pm
@Red Dawn I agree with you 100 percent! As a Canadian of South Asian origin, I am overjoyed at this positive news. After a few years perhaps I might be able to visit my birthplace in India.
Good relations between India and Pakistan will definitely make them economically prosperous.
If Canada and USA can have good relations why not India and Pakistan?
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May 24, 2014 08:33pm
Modi.....keep him. Don't let him come back to Pakistan.
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May 24, 2014 08:35pm
@Imran Keep Allah OUT Of it.
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May 24, 2014 08:50pm
By close aides you mean Shahbaz Sharif ;) What a funny country we are living in, which is ruled by a family not a party or people.Enjoy dear fellows :)
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May 24, 2014 09:03pm
@Red Dawn yeah, because the rest of the world just loves importing our labor. Both India and Pakistan are still focused on educating their people and sending them overseas for employment so they can get remittances. Foreign countries are sick of immigrants and this is not sustainable, we need to apply our skills at home and develop our manufacturing and technological capabilities. We need to move away from exporting labor and importing goods.
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May 24, 2014 09:05pm
Sharif just likes to travel, he was there at benazirs funeral too.
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May 24, 2014 09:06pm
We welcome Janab Nawaz Sharif,Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to visit India.We sincerely want friendship and peace with Pakistan.We want to see an economically strong and stable Pakistan and we wish to improve our trade relations with Pakistan.Both India and Pakistan have wasted lot of time, energy,and resources in having Government level enmity and wars in the past..But the people of Pakistan are friendly and they desire peace.Let us begin a new era of Peace and Prosperity between the two neighbouring countries.Inshaallah! We will succeed in developing good relations.
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May 24, 2014 09:31pm
Good decision by pak p.m....welcome to India....hope my fellow Indian brothers stop taunting muslims of India as pakistani.... :-)muslim
A fellow Indian
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May 24, 2014 09:37pm
Six million dollar questions to Narendra Modi & Nawaz Sharif..!
Few simple questions to Mr. Narendra Modi, Mian Nawaz Sharif, political leadership, intelligentsia, civil and military bureaucracy of India and Pakistan:
When famous players of both the countries namely Aisam ul Haq and Rohan Bopanna can team up for the cause of sports, why can
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May 24, 2014 09:50pm
May both India and Pakistan (as well as Bangladesh) develop democracies that work for their people and improve lives of the combined 1.5 billion people.
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May 24, 2014 09:59pm
@M. Siddique if Ball is in Modi's court, what is in Pakistan's court ? Another Kargil or Mumbai attacks ?
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May 24, 2014 10:06pm
@Indian Muslim yawn..
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May 24, 2014 10:12pm
A very good decision of Pakistan P M. We welcome you to India.
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May 24, 2014 10:19pm
It's a good beginning.Hope cool heads prevail.
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May 24, 2014 10:21pm
people who oppose the visit must understand that being a neighbour,you cannot plan to stay away from talks for next 100 years. You are just dodging the problem resolution. If not now , some else will and need to do it later. So Earlier the better.
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May 24, 2014 10:29pm
I good judgement call. We need to live like brothers despite having our differences on some matters.
I love Pakistan, and I love India. Both are my countries.
Cheers,
Dr. B. K. Singh
New York
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May 24, 2014 10:42pm
NS is not smart and will end up lowering our prestige and demoralising Indian Muslims and Kashmiri freedom fighters.
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May 24, 2014 10:47pm
Let the two nations pave the way for peace and economic cooperation. Perhaps re-unification of long separated cousins. Religion should not divide people; it should bring all believers close.
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May 24, 2014 11:14pm
@Fareed (usa) Nowhere did I allude to Pakistan's being an important country on the economic horizon of South-Asia,nor is it my intention to equate Sharif with Obama.It is my great dream that both India and Pakistan must reunite to revive our ancient history.After all ours was a great civilization in the remote past.History Begins at Indus(sorry to Samuel Kramer).
I am living in a place not far away from the birthplace of Panini's.Can I simply negate his significance in the field of linguistics? I am proud of being a descendant of this genius.
Please do not equate Panini with Edison.
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May 24, 2014 11:15pm
It is extremely shameful on the part of our PM and people of Pakistan, Pakistanis have no dignity and respect, Indian Govt and media is always accusing Pakistan for everything. There is no respect for Pakistan and People of Pakistan in India. Indian Govt is saying Pakistanis are terrorists. After all this Any Sensible Pakistani will never support this
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May 24, 2014 11:15pm
As a Sri Lankan born Muslim we welcome the initiative made by Mr.Modi to invite all SARCC Country's Leaders to witness his oath taking ceremony after a massive election victory. We hope Pakistan Prime Minister's visit will bring both countries together
and thus create a peaceful atmosphere.
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May 24, 2014 11:16pm
Shame Shame Shame on you
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May 24, 2014 11:19pm
Ordinary people looking peace, hopefully both leader make this happen, history will remember both leader are our Hero .
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May 24, 2014 11:34pm
Welcome to India, Mr. Prime Minister. Let bygones be bygones. Let us start fresh and march towards peace and prosperity in the Sub-Continent. Progress and development will solve all our problems. Thank you very much for accepting the invitation.
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May 24, 2014 11:48pm
@W. Mirza I once checked this rule because a Pakistani friend of mine wanted to travel to India.
The Toronto Consulate-General merely says that Canadians of Pakistani origin give an undertaking that they do not have a Pakistani passport..I think that is a normal bureaucratic procedure and nothing more should be read from it?:):)
That form can be downloaded from the web!
Or,am I wrong somewhere?:)
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May 25, 2014 12:10am
I think that Mr. Sharif can also take an application to obtain Indian Citizenship so he can stay in India permanently thus his dream of going back to his ancestoral country could be full filled. We the nation and the people of Pakistan would be gratefull to Mr. Modi o keep Mr. Sharif in India permanently .. he might need a metro service in Delhi and the Sharif brothers are good in such projects !
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May 25, 2014 12:19am
Modi will repent and loose support for inviting Pakistan PM without any progress on Mumbai terror trials.
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May 25, 2014 12:50am
I wish this world becomes free of nuclear weapons.
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May 25, 2014 01:03am
@Raj
Small steps have been taken since 1947, countless times, the result is for anyone to see. So, one can always hope though the history tells a different story.
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May 25, 2014 01:05am
A most welcome step by Mr. Sharif.
You are most welcome to start a new beginning in the Indo-Pak relationship.
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May 25, 2014 01:17am
This is an opportunity that our Prime Minister should not miss out on! Let this be the start of a cordial relationship and let us work on things that we agree upon and build a solid relationship and later, tackle our differences.
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May 25, 2014 01:28am
@Shah You have wrong information. He never ran his campaign on anti-pak sentiments. His campaign was mostly focused on Development
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May 25, 2014 01:35am
Good news that Mr. Sharif accepted the invitation to visit India. I am glad that he consulted the political colleagues. Both these groups are against peace and peace and prosperity of both country means they will be out of business.
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May 25, 2014 01:57am
I sincerely hope that this excellent step by both Prime Ministers moves beyond mere symbolism, and translates to some concrete steps, particularly in the economic area.
Some people might still bring up the Gujarat pogrom or the Kargil infiltration, which have been attributed to these leaders. There are many wounds on either side that'll take time to heal. History must sometimes be forgotten, ill-advised moves must sometimes be forgiven - because the cause for peace is much larger than all that. The vast majority of Indians and Pakistanis want nothing but their countries to co-exist peacefully, and move on.
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May 25, 2014 02:21am
what series of consultations? NS was invited to a ceremony, not to do a PhD on Indo-Pak relationships. why cant politicians just be human for a change? or is that too much to ask?
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May 25, 2014 02:22am
@Shah fyi - will appreciate if you look into how Mr. Modi ran his campaign. His was one of the most positive campaign ran in Indian history. Even western countries are looking into it to learn from it. I can count handful of times Mr. Modi referred to Pakistan - that also in a mutually respectful manner....
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May 25, 2014 02:27am
@ali - "There is no respect for Pakistan and People of Pakistan in India. Indian Govt is saying Pakistanis are terrorists."
Most Indians do not harbor ill will towards Pakistan and do not consider them terrorists - but the rest cannot easily forget from where the terrorists in the Mumbai of 2008 tragedy originated. Can you blame them.....
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May 25, 2014 05:29am
"Analysts had asserted that a slightly delayed response was due to the fact that Pakistan would be keen to insert a meaningful agenda during the usually accommodated bilateral talks even if the occasion has a multi-lateral flavour."
Lame Excuse!
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May 25, 2014 05:34am
A bold and happy move. This gives hope that people in both the countries will see positive steps towards peaceful relations and consequently prosperous days ahead.
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May 25, 2014 06:20am
Leave the past behinds ..let's talk heart to heart....., aman aur shanti
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May 25, 2014 07:53am
Good beginning. Hope cool heads prevail.
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May 25, 2014 08:42am
227 comments and still counting, well done by dawn readers by giving such an overwhelming response to first little step.
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May 25, 2014 09:07am
good thinking by the Pakistani government. It was important that Nawaz Sharif and his team extend the travel and make optimum use of it by entering into discussions on all the important issues. The discussions become more relevant as the monsoons this year are going to be weak, the American forces will be withdrawing later this year, MFN status, electricity purchases, crossborder skirmishes, etc.
Good thing is that Pakistan will be the first country to engage in a meaningful dialogue with the new Indian government.
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May 25, 2014 10:20am
Wonder what the out come of his visit would be. Certain it is that a great responsibility rests upon the statesmen of all nations, not only to fulfill the promises for reduction in armaments, but to maintain the confidence of the people of the world in the hope of an enduring peace. My humble advice...Compromise makes a good umbrella, but a poor roof; it is temporary expedient, often wise in party politics, almost sure to be unwise in statesmanship.
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May 25, 2014 10:47am
According to Lord Pamerstone " Nations have no permanent alies only permanent interests.
Well done Nawaz Sharif. You are going to visit world's biggest democracy to further the interests of your country. Allah bless you.
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May 25, 2014 12:24pm
@Dr Mansoor Qasim I am sorry to say that you almost sound like a sycophant. Do you not remember what Modi did to Muslims in Gujrat? Nawaz Sharif is a thief and looter of Pakistan exchequer. While the entire country is struggling to survive, he orders 2 cars for Rs. 224 million? What a shameful display of arrogance and lack of empathy towards the very people he is supposed to care for.
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May 25, 2014 04:05pm
It appears to the world that Modi is not going to be a PM (means servant of the citizens) but he is planning to be a all-powerful king of India. People of Pakistan and Mr Sharif should not offer him undeserved respect but make him realize that he is no more than a servant of people.
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May 25, 2014 04:53pm
God bless Pakistan and India !
We are brothers and sisters !
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May 25, 2014 07:55pm
I congratulate Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for this well thought out decision. There is a gradual but distinct strengthening of political and democratic institutions in Pakistan which will serve the country well in the longterm. For both countries, it is time to look ahead than look behind. By shifting from military adversaries to economic friendship we can turn the lose-lose proposition to win-win situation. These two strong leaders seem to show the wisdom and sagacity to accomplish this. The overall enthusiasm by aam admi on both sides show that is what people at large want. Each one of us can do our part that the best in us is far better than the worst. Engage your fellow country men and women, especially those that are quick to hate and slow to forgive. Persuade them that what is common to us is far stronger than what separates us.
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May 25, 2014 08:52pm
I say with proud-filled words: Muslims in India are far most safer than in Pakistan. We, the Hindus, see muslims as HUMANS and PEOPLE, rather than visualizing them as someone who follows other religion. All GOOD muslim INDIANS are our brothers and sisters, forever, a scenario which can prevail ONLY in our sacred India. We, Hindu nationals, placed the noble scientist and an excellent humanitarian like Dr. Abdul Kalam as the first-citizen in our country, and enjoyed the pride of a TRUE democracy, as an Indian, especially during the BJP rule (in your words, a Hindu nationalist party!) in the past.
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May 26, 2014 12:46am
@Indian Muslim - We can understand you agony. You should not lose heart & continue to become powerful through education & co-operation
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May 26, 2014 01:06am
Welcome home, Nawaz Shareef. There is a saying in my place that - A Guest....is a God's messenger. We will show you what do we mean by that. Hope, you bring good tidings....!
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May 26, 2014 01:01pm
@Red Dawn I agree with you.
We have many rivers which flow from India to Pak but due to our relations India is not able to build Hyd Projects. If both of join hand and plan for couple of Hyd projects then we both can enjoy cheaper power generation.
regards
Pankaj
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May 26, 2014 03:40pm
@Red Dawn: it is a good decision by the PM. And we should reduce the defence expenditure. I agree with you on that.
But even after reducing or even eliminating it we can not receive 100% literacy in 10 years nor change the energy mix to 100% hydel. There is not enough hydel capacity available nor can all of it be brought online in this amount of time. And the hydel electricity does not cost 0.02 Paisa per unit.
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May 27, 2014 12:37am
@ROHIT PANDEY
The Indian govt. will only issue visas to Pakistani born American citizens if they DENOUNCE their allegiance to Pakistan. Many Pakistanis as so NRI, have dual citizenship so India is placing ludicrous restrictions upon Pakistani born American citizens with this outrageous caveat. Many of my Pakistani born friends who needed to attend family weddings in India refused to denounce their heritage and thus refused visa's to India. Another friend who's wife is an Indian born Sikh who's daughter's born in America was refused an Indian visa to visit her Sikh grandmother in Amritsar. Why? Her father also a Sikh was born in Pakistan so even though all are American citizens, the Indians still refused their 12 year old daughter a visa!
IMO, Pakistan should do the same with all NRI's and request them to denounce their NRI documents and dual nationality if they want a Pakistani visa. It's only fair for Pakistan to do the same, and maybe then India will conduct its visa policy in a more just manner.
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