|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
By Category |
 |
|
|
| |
|
| |
| |
India On Media |
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
| Politics
News |
|
| For Narendra Modi's Swearing-In, |
| For Narendra Modi's Swearing-In, Invites Sent to Leaders of South Asian Neighbours
|
| INDIA
, 21-May-2014
9:20:23 AM |
| Narendra Modi has invited the leaders of Pakistan, Bangladesh and other neighbours to his oath ceremony as prime minister next Monday, in a bold step to embark on a policy of regional engagement. (Modi to Be Sworn In As India's 15th PM on May 26)
Afghanistan premier Hamid Karzai has reportedly confirmed he will attend. An official in Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa's office has told Reuters that he too will attend.
"The invitation being extended to the SAARC countries is a responsible gesture & as per protocol being sent by the GoI via the MEA (sic)," BJP spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted. (Also Read: When Narendra Modi Broke Down)
SAARC nations include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.
Pakistan's high commission in New Delhi said it had not yet received an invitation, which must be issued formally by the foreign ministry. It was not immediately clear if Mr Sharif would accept. Analysts said the visit would be politically difficult. (World Leaders Congratulate Narendra Modi)
The BJP has indicated that Mr Modi will work to a re-crafted foreign policy. He repeatedly tore into the Congress-led UPA government's foreign policy in his election speeches as "stagnated" and "weak."
His huge victory in the general election gives him the political capital that his predecessor Manmohan Singh, weakened by a raft of graft scandals and public discontent at home, did not have.
After his own election last year, Sharif's administration had also suggested that the Indian prime minister be invited to attend his inauguration ceremony, but Dr Singh declined.
There is no recent precedent for inviting foreign leaders for the swearing in ceremony of an Indian prime minister. (Also Read: Army Jawan Killed in First Ceasefire Violation After Election)
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted, "Excellent move by @narendramodi to invite SAARC leaders, especially Pak PM for his swearing in.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ADVERTISEMENTS
Free offer!!! Become an administrator for your zip home page, "Post" local news (local to your postcode)& pictures, "Post" advertisement banners from local companies. Make Extra money.
|
 |
 |
|
|
| |
|
