New Delhi: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi in Delhi, ending two-day suspense over his decision amid reports that there was stiff opposition from hardliners in the establishment. This has surprised Modi's opponents who had alleged that BJP's ideology will hamper relations with neighbours, especially Pakistan. During election campaigns, Modi had taken a tough stand on border issue and many in Pakistan were cautiously watching developments in India. But, even before his swearing-in ceremony, Modi has proved his diplomatic skills by inviting Nawaz Sharif to attend the event. This has caught international attention and goes to highlight the fact that Modi is going to take tough decision and prefers to indulge in talks with everyone. Sharif's decision to attend the ceremony is a huge shot in the arm for Modi as his diplomatic skills appear to be very effective, even before his officially takes charge.
Sharif took the decision to accept the Indian invitation after a series of consultations with his close aides, the Dawn reported, citing unnamed sources.
Modi has invited all the leaders of member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to the ceremony.
Earlier, Sharif’s daughter Maryam tweeted that cordial relations with the new Indian Government should be cultivated.“I personally think cordial relations with new Indian govt should be cultivated. Will help remove psychological barriers, fear & misgivings,” she tweeted.
She followed it up with another tweet, “It’s upon the leaders to lead their countries & ppl to peace & conciliation.”
Pakistani media is upbeat about this event and hopes this will go a long in paving the way for future consultations and meetings. The Dawn front-paged a report about the foreign office's recommendation to Sharif to attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony.
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