Modi has hit a diplomatic sixer by inviting Pak PM: Natwar Singh

New Delhi: Soon after a confirmation from Pakistan on the arrival of their Prime Minister for the swearing-in of Indian Prime Minister designate Narendra Modi, reactions have started pouring in. Former External Affairs minister Natwar Singh hailed Modi's decision and said that he had hit a diplomatic sixer by inviting Nawaz Sharif to India.

The BJP, too, welcomed the decision of the Pakistan PM despite the delay. "The BJP is looking at strong ties in our neighbourhood and all invitees will be given equal importance. This is a start, we can't have a concrete foreign policy decided in 2 days, it will take time. But it's a good start. He has accepted the invite in the spirit in which it was sent," BJP leader MJ Akbar said adding that the invitation is for all the SAARC nations and is not nation specific.

The Congress leaders too raised hope that the meet could give a favourable direction to future talks. "This is a good attempt. They should seriously talk on how to get Dawood Ibrahim, and other issues. Hope the government gives a strong message to Pakistan," Congress leader Rashid Alvi said.

Meanwhile, some Congress leaders also questioned the BJP's stand on talks with Pakistan. "What needs to be noted is that BJP has always maintained that terror and talks cannot go hand in hand so I hope that when this meeting takes places BJP should take up the issue of the 26/11 trial and the other terror related issues. I do hope BJP government once is sworn is will raise the slow pace of investigation of Mumbai terror attack that has been troubling them for a long time. I hope BJP remains true to the position they have taken in the last 10 years," a skeptical Manish Tewari said.

However, the regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed Pakistan's move. Very glad to hear Pak PM has accepted invite, shows that he can prevail over forces inimical to good relations with India. I hope that this will mark a new beginning in ties between our two countries. The people of J&K will be watching closely. Can't help but feel sorry for others taking oath or attending because the only photo op that will matter now will be the Modi-Sharif handshake," Omar Abdullah tweeted.

"It is a good decision. Modi and Nawaz should work for the welfare of people," Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti said.