Sindh tour: Pakistan, India urged to focus on social issues

Bihar CM says resources should be used for poverty mitigation.

SUKKUR/ LARKANA:

Nitish Kumar, chief minister of Indian state of Bihar, urged Indian and Pakistani governments to forge better ties, saying resources should be funneled towards poverty mitigation as conditions of both the countries remain identical.

Kumar expressed these views during his visit to Mohenjodaro near Larkana on Sunday. He and his delegation were accompanied by Sindh Assembly Speaker Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, and Sindh ministers Agha Siraj Durrani, Ayaz Soomro, Sassui Palijo and Mohan Lal Kohistani.

“It was an old wish to visit this archaeological site of great significance,” he remarked.

While talking to reporters, Kumar said that history and culture of both the countries were the same, adding that stronger relationship could be built up if both the countries cooperate with each other.

The Indian delegation then visited Bhutto family’s graveyard in Garhi Khuda Bux.

“ZA Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto have sacrificed for democracy. History will always remember them with good words,” he said.

Ayaz Soomro said that the visit will improve ties between neighbouring countries, stressing that Pakistan and India must work on enhancing trade.

A big reception was given to the Indian delegation by Hindu community at Sadhu Belo, Sukkur. “The people of both countries wish to end differences now because development and prosperity is not possible without peace,” he said at the reception.

“I have brought a message of peace, love and brotherhood from India,” Kumar said while addressing a Hindu panchayat. Frequency and number of exchange of delegations should be enhanced for furthering relationship between the two countries.

Leaders of Hindu panchayat from different cities also attended the programme. Bihar’s CM and other members performed religious rituals at the historical temple.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 12^th, 2012.