JOIN USMainstream as well as separatist parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday welcomed Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s decision to attend prime minister-designate Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony.
“Very glad to hear Pak PM has accepted invite, shows that he can prevail over forces inimical to good relations with India,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wrote on Twitter.
“I hope this will mark a new beginning in ties between our two countries. The people of J&K will be watching closely.”
In another message, he said, “Can't help feel sorry for others taking oath or attending because the only photo-op that will matter now will be the Modi-Sharif handshake.”
In a re-tweet, while ridiculing Shiv Sena, Omar wrote: “Hahahaha good one “@zigzackly: Nawaz Sharif is coming? Shiv Sena will go dig up Rashtrapati Bhavan lawns on the 25th night?”
Principal opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said the occasion would introduce a lot of “positivity” into the relations between the two neighbours.
“Unfortunately, Kashmir has been the worst victim of the hostilities between the two,” she said in a statement. “While Modi’s initiative of inviting all SAARC leaders was a welcome step, the focus of attention remained as to how the Pakistan PM would respond to the invite.”
“Nawaz Sharif by accepting the invitation has introduced an element of much needed positivity to Modi’s stint as the PM,” she added.
Moderate Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, while hailing Sharif’s decision, expressed hope and confidence that the move will help in creating conducive atmosphere between the two countries.
“It is a positive decision taken by Pakistan prime minister and the same is bound to create conducive atmosphere between the two countries. I feel this decision will help in harmonising relations between the two countries,” Mirwaiz told Deccan Herald.
He hoped that the diplomatic gestures exhibited by Modi and Sharif will pave way in resolution of the Kashmir dispute.