The two leaders will have a one-on-one meeting after the oath. PHOTOS: REUTERS
Nawaz is among the leaders of South Asian countries invited to attend the oath-taking ceremony to be held in New Delhi on May 26.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader on May 21, in a bold move, invited Nawaz to his swearing-in ceremony. Modi is to take the oath as prime minister 10 days after a landslide win for the Hindu nationalist BJP which secured the first majority by a single party in 30 years.
This is the first time in the history of India that a Pakistani prime minister has been invited to the oath-taking ceremony of an Indian premier.
The decision to accept India's unprecedented invitation was taken after consultations with all the stakeholders, said the foreign office official.
A close aide of the prime minister told The Express Tribune that there was a consensus that Nawaz should attend the ceremony.
On May 22, The Express Tribune had learnt that Nawaz was likely to travel to New Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony, even though Foreign Office spokesperson Tasnim Aslam said that a decision had not been made at that point.
Also, on May 23, a senior official, who asked to remain anonymous, told The Express Tribune that a bilateral meeting between Nawaz and Modi has already been fixed if “our prime minister decides to visit.”
Pakistan's foreign ministry confirmed today (Saturday) that Nawaz will hold bilateral talks with Modi on the morning of May 27 and will also meet Indian President Pranab Mukherjee.
This latest gesture is considered significant considering anti-Pakistan rhetoric by Modi during his election campaign.
"It's very good news that Nawaz Sharif has accepted Mr Modi's invitation," BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar told reporters in New Delhi. "It will mark a new beginning in our ties."
Modi's invitation has inspired hopes that the change in government will lead to improved relations between the two countries.
The swearing-in ceremony, to be held at the forecourt of the historic Rashtrapati Bhavan, is likely to be attended by as many as 3,000 guests. Modi will be sworn in as the 15th Prime Minister of India by President Mukherjee.
Opinions
Talat Masood, a political analyst and retired Pakistani general, said Nawaz had the backing of the nation's powerful army.
"I think the army is backing (his decision to attend) otherwise he would not go. He does not go against the advice of the army," he told AFP.
Either way, "Pakistan conveyed a positive gesture to India", said the chairman of Jamiat-e-Ulema-Islami Fazl (JUI-F), an ally of Nawaz's government.
"The decision to attend... is a welcome sign," said Maulana Fazlur Rehman. He added that close ties with India "may help resolve the Kashmir issue."
Omar Abdullah, the chief minister of Indian-held Kashmir, echoed similar sentiments.
He said on Twitter:
Very glad to hear Pak PM has accepted invite, shows that he can prevail over forces inimical to good relations with India. 1/2
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) May 24, 2014
I hope that this will mark a new beginning in ties between our two countries. The people of J&K will be watching closely. 2/2
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) May 24, 2014
COMMENTS (96)
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No matter what we say the basic cultures in both countries is same - ---whenever there is a good function in the family we all invite our relatives, friends and neighbors.
Invitation to Mian NS by NM should be taken in the same spirit and one should only look at it that now we have a guy in Delhi who wants to share his moment with his neighbors.
I along with all of you also hope and pray to God that the relationship between both countries improve and the focus be on development of the people rather than building arsenals.
@Gp65: Advising and pressure tactics or forcing are all different things.
@ syed Nayyaruddin Ahmed: Your concerns are genuine but i think the "Two Nation Theory" is coming in between. China claims a huge territory of India and it shows Arunachal on its map. India claims Aksai Chin that China forcefully occupied after 1962 war... yet the two nations have put the thorny issues behind and have moved ahead with business. Today China and India are worlds no. 2 and no. 3 economies respectively and are biggest trade partners. We can apply the same thing in Indo-Pak relationship but Pakistan says resolve kashmir or nothing.. so its nothing and its going to be nothing. Secondly, every time india talks to pakistan, non state actors try to create havoc on India for e.g. terror attacks, kargil operation. Modi invited Nawaz and Indian consulate in Herat was attacked. So many Indians believe that its better not to have any dialogue with Pakistan.
@lol: "The main concern by all of us in Pakistan was that he should oblige Modi for one on one talk, or else he should not go there." I fully appreciate your concern but wonder what use will be this talk with Mr. Modi who has not yet entered the PMO and has not even met his complete staff. It is just a day of celebration for us and our democracy achieving one more mile stone.
@syed nayyar using ahmed. India has no issue over talks we can commonly share the state. It's the fact every time we talk, state based support of non state actors attack us badly. Do you think people will talk if such things happen every time? There's a fear psychosis here, now the peace deal has started "o god now who's gonna get targeted and killed". Because there is a powerful instit in your country that doesn't want indo pak peace. Musharuf was dishonest when he did kargil but when Later he came to his senses. Let me tell you he was respected for it in india. When we told him to stop those support and freeze the non state actors he did and talks started and flourished in true manner because of it. But after he's gone the same strategy of supporting non state actors were adopted. Just yesterday indian consulate was attacked co-incidence a day after indo pak talks announced. So you get it? Peace and covert war, why would india be ready to talk under such circumstances? Once this policy is abolished we can all live in peace and solve problems like democrats.
ET - you print plenty of unsubstantiated conspiracy theories from Rex. Please allow someone to challenge him with facts.
@Rex Minor: Hmmm... You were initially insisting that unless Saudi Arabia agreed for which he would have to apologize to Muslims workdwide (for a crime that he did nit commit and has been acquitted of). US would not welcome Modi. Of course the fact that Obama and Kerry have both inited him lays to bed at least the theory that US needs Saudi approal. Now you find that even Pakistani premier does not consider Modi a pariah despite the fact openly known that Nawaz is deeply influenced by Saudis yet instead of accepting that your wishful thinking was flawed, you come up with a new conspiracy theory.
@fakhir:
Let the little man be, he is a good business man and Mr Modi is a new Indian business manager. The two political veterans will have no impact on the future of their countries. Both countries need the leadership of those who have the vision for the sub-continent and none is in sight today. India is now witnessing a change from the congress party whereas Pakistan will have to sock it out for some time with the muslim league of Nawaz.
Rex Minor
@Rudra: Pls repeat Manmohan's comments on Siachen..
Shame on you Mr. Prime minister. Why can't Modi come over if India wants better rations.
The Prime Minister propagandists are coming in the media and talking about the purpose of his visit being to break the Ice between the two contrahandson issues which are taboos for Indian political leadership? it would seem that that foreign agenda and Pakistan foreign policy is being dictated by the military brass?
Rex Minori
@Someone: Maybe so, then again, the leader of a terrorist nation is receiving legitimacy in return
Great decision. Mark of a statesman. Congratulations to both the leaders! Looking forward to better times for this relationship and a better tomorrow
@lol: I had attached a url which said clearly that the COAS advice was he should not go.
Dear Nawaz. Please offload Sartaj Aziz on your way back to Pak. We have suffered enough. I dont know why you cant make decisions on your own. I am sure you are not inept, unless you think you really are.
My appreciation and wishes to Pak PM on coming to India! Welcome to India Sir!
I am not a fan boy of Modi, but Modi has surprised me as well :)
Hope India and Pakistan keep working for the betterment of All South Asians!
@goldconsumer: Indian govenment is doing something for the poor. Please check the world bank site. Indian Poverty has come down to 22% where as Pakistan's has increased to 37%. In the next five years the the poverty percentage gonna come down below 10%, Just wait and see
I see "liberal" Indian friendly ET is giving place to only favorable to India comments here so I'd say what a great decision to go and stand meekly among bhutan and maldives rulers, down with the sense of respect for this unfortunate country and long live "liberalism" at the cost of this country's dignity
now understand that he is elected thru rigging,support by india america.that is y in india history 1st invited any pakistani pm.
Modi was anti Pakistan until he was elected.True his main speeches were mainly on development except for the AK 47 comments.Anti Pakistan comments were left to his underlings and allies like Kadam of the Shiv Sena.When the Congress were for dialogue with Pakistan ,they were called weak by the BJP.Today after inviting Sharif,its considered a smart move by the paid media.
@Bewildered: Wrong assessment. CM Modi of Gujrat is entirely different than PM Modi of India. Notwithstanding the unfortunate events in Gujrat, one MUST respect the decision of India as Nation. If they have opted to place their confidence in Modi, then who are we (Pakistanis) or for that matter others (rest of the World) to question their decision. After all, this is culmination of collective wisdom that has translated into single party majority in India after 30 years. Lets be optimistic that this will be a good omen for this unfortunate region, which most of the time was ruled by dictatorship or coalition governments (which remained hostage to demands by corrupt coalition partners). I for one wish Modi a successful tenture in the office that may bring some relief to the common people of this region.
I am amazed that even before taking oath of Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has established himself as a global leader of South Asia.
@ashok sai: and a last ball six by PM Nawaz Sharif ;-)
@ Bewildered + all anti-Visit people: NS visit is not a biletral visit for peace, trade , or any other deal. No one can see who is on Advantage. it is rather a win win situation for both of them. NS visit is sensible because not to forget the isolated image of pakistan among Nations of world as bad and mad boy. this visit can help in: 1: Relifting Pakistan's image in world as peace loving nation, ready to dialoge with india on any issue if indian new leadership agrees. 2: Attracting Long time investers to pakistan. 3: Both will get to know Mood n seriousness of each other. 4: Giving indian new leadership a messege of Pakiatani positon on Different issues etc.. Modi will get similar nots as well nothing more. Taking about India as Super power of Asia.. well nodoubt they are super power in terms of Leadership, Democracy , ECONOMY , MILLATRY and many more with no match.. Remember in 21st Banks are important than TANKS. taking about involvmet of modi in gujrat masacare... it is not proven...
Very happy to see this news!! I'm 100% sure things are going to get better under modi and sharrif. I hope this opens up new doors for both countries, and we can resolve our differences peacefully!
Excellent decision Mr. PM! We need peace and economic growth. No more war
Come on Indian friends, NS and Modi do not need certificates from each other; neither of them becomes Asian Kings. These are elected leaders of two great nations and for the interest of their nations, they are moving the things in right direction. However we should respect history, especially sub continent history, and avoid empty gestures of vanity.
@Someone: All Saarc country'es head are visiting.
We Pakistanis are the only nation who welcome those who betray us, abuse us, fight us. Have a pity on us please our leaders.
On seeing Nawaz's reactions even Mudi must be saying piti you poor Pakistanis
Pakistan prime Minister mr. Nawaj Shareef most welcome in India. We choose Mr. Narendra Modi as our PM AS WE hope that he can deliver most because his track record of developement in Gujrat in superb. He is bold & can take decisions. So it's golden opportunity for peace in the region. So friends in Pakistan kindly believe that he is the best who can deliver. Both the countries have the common enemy that is poverty ,illiteracy , unemployment. If both country will remember the past than we can not move further. It is a bold decision by Shri Nawaj Shareef
Mr Modi is an eternal optimist and believes in making every effort to improve the country's economy. Trying to explore ways of improving relationship with Pakistan is part of this effort. Hope Mr Shariff and Mr Modi find a common ground to work on--say for instance an improved trade that is mutually beneficial.
Prime minister of Pakistan endorsing a mass murders and going on his oath taking ceremoney just for Photo op how silly is this idea when Kashmir is burning by Indian hands which is an integral part of Pakistan.We always take decision in hurry without long term thinking just to please others by leaving our national interests aside one day NS and those who are suggesting to visit will feel regret over this decision.
Very Good Decision. Both Pakistan and Indian must realized after 65 years of unnecessary conflicts that no one can change the status and position of each other But good relation. South East Asia can be one of the top economic, investment and the developmental zone if the neighboring countries; India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan honestly and seriously cooperate, respect each others and establishe peace and discuss their issues through dialoug and mutual respect. This is one of the great step initiated by the India in long term regional understanding and peace. Hopefully in near future both the country will resolve their issue and will continue cooperation in every aspect. Those who opposing such relations are the enemy of peace and that wants prolong insecurity and distabilization for their agenda. They should remeber that in last 65 years they gain nothing at any front and are failed. Good decision PM and wishing you the bes of luck.
Prime Minister Nawaz needs to understand before his 5 years are over that he cannot work in vacuum. Perhaps he only cares about making money from these mega projects.
@usman army has no influence or say on us, or media, of govt. the only and sole powerful entity in our country is our govt who orders the army. The army nods and tunes to govt wishes. The only area of control of army is loc. So the negativity that comes from terror attacks comes from television, media which results in pressure to govt to act. The army has no input or say in any of it. In fact more than half the country don't even know who's our army chief. And as far as latest leaks by PM secretary books. It had clearly mentioned army was all for peace and dialogue between india and pak. It was hawks in congress govt like ak Antony, and some politicians that were suspicious of talks when non state actors continue with their plans.
Nawaz Sharif has decided to visit India for the swearing-in ceremony, fine.
But, you guys know, what is going to happen later after this visit? You guys know the implications of this?
After the ceremony, basking the media attention, Sharif saab, in a moment of magnanimity, will invite Modi to Pakistan. And Mr Modi is waiting for this and so he will gladly accept, jumping in joy.
Then, he will visit Pakistan, and he will make Pak is his first foreign visit as a PM. Media contingent from the world will follow him.
He won't give any media interviews. But, he will address meetings in colleges and business forums. He just loves speaking in big rallies, they bring out the best in him. He will give some catchy, out-of-the-box ideas, like promising Pak students admissions in IITs or subsidized medical treatment in India for patients.
Considering his oratory skills, both business community and youth will be completely floored. They will go gaga for months and they will ask for more rallies of Modi. This is what is gonna happen.
Then, you guys are going to complain how Modi has polarized Pak society too !
A step in right direction. Pakistan and India must share both economies. It would be wise to open at least three route between two countries. Friendly one month visa at port of arrival between both countries. Lets build roads from Mumbai to Karachi. Let the people move about freely. We need to get good expertise on agriculture from India. Lets grow together keeping our interest in the region in mind. The water head works and interest of Kashmir is important to Pakistan. We need to progress together.
@bewilded ok estab spokesperson we get your point. But what about our points? Every time we initiate a deal someone from your side someone does a Mumbai, consulate attack, parliament, plane hijack,beheading on border etc? When we give proofs available even on media and people name you let them roam free on streets still giving hateful speeches to attack us again. So the point is do you expect a person to still shake hands with you after being shot him 3times in a row and still expect him to continue hand shaking? It doesn't work that way you know. No guns one hand roses the other. Change the policy and business can be back as usual.
USA welcomed Modi. So does Nawaz. simple !!!!
@Skunk He's no hard nut to crack. If you make friends with him he will walk extra mile for you and cover your distance. If you sting him he will spare no thought and sting you back ten times. He welcomes all with open heart and mind. And hopes the same happens the other side and not enmity. If not we know what his reaction would be. About his past he was newly elected the day before riots broke out. Muslims burnt alive Hindu pilgrims train carrying woman and children. Then riots broke out killing Hindus and Muslims both. He's lack of experience in handling sudden unexpected events, negligence,army couldn't come quickly due to parliament attack all where stationed at border, he called other state police to send police help. Being different party different state they didn't send and played politics to sully his image so their party could win next election. This led to late response,army came in third day after his inefficiency to deal with it when things could be controlled better way, was the issue. He wasn't rioting on the streets mind you. So you should correct your statement about his past. Riots happened in larkana and many other places in your province did you blame bilal Bhutto or shahbaz sharif for it like modi?
Hate mongers are on both sides of border. See anti-peace comments. Great and wise decision bt Mr. Nawaz Sharif. Give peace another chance.
We welcome the PM of Pakistan for our grand function. We hope he has convinced Pak army that this trip should be undertaken
@asad khan appreciate your gesture. Long lost brotherhood must return. Peace :)
Its a tough call but I think the right decision in the end.
It is indeed a very good decision on the part of civil administration. As recent attack on Indian Council Office in Herat, it appears military establishment still consider Afghanistan its fifth province. I do not know when they are going to learn and act according to their size and not to their wishes.
Heading should be" India summons Pakistan PM" or Pakistani PM visits India to discuss MFN status.
Further to my previous comment, if NS is going against FO's and GHQ's advice and doesn't get anything solid in return, which I am sure he won't, his days are as PM are numbered for sure.
@Someone: He does no longer represent the majority and has decided to go his way. This is his decision and will determine his fate. One can only feel sorry for the man who is prepared to blow up the second chance.
Rex Minor
Of course when younger brother could convince the real stake holder, the mighty COAS, then one can attend the event. An eye opener for all where actullay lies the power in Pakistan.
@Someone: As a big country with large economy and population, modi is definitely a king in Asia
Good step from pakistan As pakistan is in a desperate situation with tackling security with its own country, finding a good relation with india will make them prosperous,dignity,power,security,economic progress and much more.
This guy has a vision for South Asia lets be part of it. Also he commands the respect of every one in the party and he will give free hand to every one to work and nobody will interfere in his job. End bureaucracy. Much like Oval office
Pakistan
1- Nothing, but hollow words and promises, and a trade relationship that is overwhelmingly in India's favor. 2- Put Kashmir, Sia Chen, Sir Creek, and other hosts of issues in the cold storage, in case Pakistan still wanted to continue to have working relations with India. 3- Any time India feels like threatening, or even attacking Pakistan, this pseudo-peace trickery would provide India big political advantage on the world stage.
In my opinion, instead of strengthening the hands of a shrewd enemy for nothing, the best option was to send Sartaj Aziz to India with a message that Pakistan means serious business based on fairness, equality, and principles, not just words, and anytime India is ready to do that, PM would be more than pleased to visit.
@ashok sai: Hope Mr. Modi hits every ball to SIX. :)
@Someone: All heads of SAARC countries going except Bangladeshi pm she is in japan..so head of paraliament of bangladesh coming!
Pathetic and shameful
Despite not a supporter of pmln. I think this is a sensible decision because the only way to tackle a political move is by a political move. For all those who are condemning the decision, what would Pakistan achieve if the PM doesn't visit?
@Someone: sorry but Modi sarkar who was elected by 1.2 billion people to lead them does need the stamp of legitimacy from a third rate economy and a failed jihadist ungrateful state who cheated the US despite getting 23 billion in aid. So do not go preaching.
Someone was saying Nawaz Sharif taking this oppurtunity to raise the Kashmir issue during oath ceremony...
@Someone: All the other membersof saarce incl bangladesh and afghanistan
@Karachiwala: total bull dust. Your mind is too small to grasp the significance what is happening around.
Invitation to SAARC leaders was a foreign policy masterstroke by Modi and poor Nawaz took the bait! Now we all know who is the real boss in South Asia!
@Gp65: CORRECTION - Military did not put any pressure on him over this issue. The main concern by all of us in Pakistan was that he should oblige Modi for one on one talk, or else he should not go there. I'm glad our Government was successful in obliging Modi & so NS has decided to go there. Anyway, not surprised at all to see how Indians were blaming army for putting pressure on NS to not to visit New Delhi, I expect nothing positive as far as Indian media & some of the Indians like you are concerned.
certainly a bold move by Modi to invite and equally brave move by Nawaz Sharif to accept despite apparent obstacle by the vested forces to continue to control India centric foreign policy.
Welcome to India Mr Prime Minister. Your visit shall open up a new era of peace and economic cooperation between the two countries. If you continue to follow an independent foreign policy, the chances of peace and prosperity in the entire region are extremely bright which will be duly reciprocated by your counterpart across the border.
I am eagerly waiting to see Nawaz uncle, please bring your brand new BMW too uncle. I want to play with it.
This dialogue with India will last as far as Taliban dialogue currently going on. No I am not against it but this contractor PM Nawaz is doing everything in vacuum. He does not have the mental acuity, nor he understands that to carryout these dialogues you need to get all stakeholders on board including Army. He is on vendetta mission with Army- his true mission - there is no chance any substance will come out from him being in office for 5 years. His main other objectivity is to get the windfall for his company from these mega projects and he is very successful at it. Note the fact that no one seems to be questioning at this moment - because they all agreed to be quite at this stage. So the LOOT goes on unhindered.
A expected decision by NS but in his defence, 'The light is on but, nobody's home'.
NS is still keeping his ego upfront. Should be good for long run for Pakistan... modi won't be able to get a thing from NS... as he is continuously becoming weak PM with every day passing... and destroying his image among his own people...
Welcome though this development is... and Mian Sahab is certainly most welcome to India... but just hope that, (going by the statements of the likes of Hafiz Saeed on this subject) when he returns to his country he still remains "Prime Minister" ..!!
I am sick of establishments paid cronies swamping the discussion boards and comments section of major newspapers - ts obvious that establishment is sticking to its policy of projecting India as enemy and keep south asia hostage to their nefarious agenda. They should wake up and learn that peach with India is in their best interest as well. Being owners of major industrial units in Pakistan from urea to cereal, trade represents enormous growth opportunities for the military owned business empire.
@Economist: The boss needs to first feed its own people Mr. Economist. Pverty is still India's biggest problem
Yes he goes I knew it that's confidence.Those who think it sort of submission lack confidence.
I think it is good decision to go when there is also an invitation waiting for you.
This decision Nawaz Sharif is good, I support this, cuz it will bring a fresh thaw in Indo Pak Chemistry. But be mindful readers these are all "gestures" and we hope that "substance" will be equally nice as gestures.
I am not a voter nor supporter of PML-N, but I support this decision of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
Namastey India.
regards,
Since, he is going there, maybe Nawaz will get an insight into his thinking. For Pakistan, Modi will be a hard nut to crack. No matter what, his macabre past will always pop up. Nevertheless, Pakistan must always be on a red alert with Modi around. Salams
Good step taken by our Govt. Both of us cannot afford anymore wars, we should resolve all issues, including core issue of Kashmir, impeccably without any further delay. I know Indian trolls will say we want justice for 26/11, but i have a question for all these trolls - what did Pakistan gain from it if we were behind it? all that Pakistan got from that incident was relentless attack by forces against Pakistan, we gained nothing from it at all, only this argument alone proves the fact that Pakistan was not involved in it in any way. I'm sure there were some other sinister forces involved, in 26/11. It is in the interest of India to resume dialogue with Pakistan, all those in India who are calling for annexing Lahore, are living in a fools paradise, they better read about Hiroshima & Nagasaki to get some sense of what a war could lead to. Lets give peace a chance.
I knew you would .That's confidence.
Bravo, Nawaz Sharif. Such a good thing to do. Those who oppose are living in fools' paradise. Pakistan can gain more if there is a peace with India.
Wise and bold step...Mian sb
It's really sad to read the comments here...people from both sides just want war and hatred....yeh military establishments on both sides have filled all of the hearts with so much hatred it's very unnerving. If people so strongly want war and conflict to continue, and of course our militaries would love it, then these politicians can meet all they want and nothing will come from it.
SAARC forms the new European Union but more powerful.
welcome sir.
Terrible idea! The butcher is looking for legitimacy, I wonder how many other South Asian countries attend.
Mr Sharif going to pledge his allegiance to the king?
Optics matter...
Hmmm, i thought Shahbaz Sharif and COAS had decided. That Nawaz Sharif should not go? http://tribune.com.pk/story/712418/pakistan-india-relations-shahbaz-meets-coas/
Is Nawaz actually making a decision different from what the COAS said? Impressed. If this trend continues and Nawaz can actually put foreign policy under civilian control - maybe my cynicism maybe proved wrong ( and how glad I will be to pve pro ved wrong) and the problems and a win win for all.may get solved. Again it is premature to think this will happen. But if this headline is accurate- it certainly is a good first step f
Nawaz Sharif is on mission to visit as many countries as he can in this govt. before going back to Jeddah. :P
Hope these are baby steps in the right direction , we have tried hate and war for 66 yrs for a change lets give peace a chance .
appeasing a murderer
Enough to show who is the boss in South Asia!! But now it is confirmed!
Keeping in view the mentality of our leadership, "yeh to hona hi tha!!"