Bilawal, Maryam trade courteous messages

LAHORE:

In a rare display of warmth despite months of political friction, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz exchanged cordial messages on X, with Bilawal thanking her for a "positive gesture".

The interaction comes as Bilawal wrapped up a four-day visit to Lahore, marked by careful praise that did not entirely mask underlying tensions between the two governing allies.

Maryam had posted on X on Thursday extending a "warm welcome" to the PPP chairman during his stay in Punjab. "Punjab is your home, and you will always find a place of respect here," she wrote, adding, "Thank you for your gracious remarks. You have my heartfelt good wishes and prayers".

Although she did not specify which remarks she had in mind, Bilawal had told reporters earlier in the week that he would be "very happy" if the Punjab chief minister chose to contest elections from Sindh.

Responding a day later, Bilawal said, "Thank you, madam chief minister for the warm welcome and positive gesture".