Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif hints acceptance for Modi's swearing-in invitation

Islamabad/New Delhi: After consulting his close aides, allies and local Kashmir leaders for hours, Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif on Thursday signalled acceptance of the invitation from India’s Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi to visit New Delhi when he takes the oath of office on May 26.

“The Prime Minister has accepted the invitation. His travel details will be finalised later,” a Pakistan foreign ministry official said late on Thursday. He said the Prime Minister was hopeful that talks between both countries will resume soon, as cordial ties “are necessary for peace in the region”.

Mr Sharif, he said, was optimistic that anti-Pakistan sentiments will be left behind and discussions would be held with to improve bilateral relations.

Till late on Thursday, India’s foreign ministry had not got official word from the Pakistan government on the visit. It is learnt that Pakistan may announce the decision on Friday morning.