Abu Dhabi, April 10 (IANS/WAM) Improved relations and regular talks between India and Pakistan will benefit both countries and “will deliver a blow to elements which have kept this process hostage for a long time now”, a UAE daily said Tuesday.
Commenting on Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari’s “rapid fire” visit to India, the Gulf News said in an editorial that “the visit has come in for both praise as well as brickbats”.
“Those who were in favour said the trip would help break the ice and would result in reciprocal visits. Those against, felt that nothing much could be achieved in a half-hour discussion followed by a four-course lunch.”
“But the fact remains that it was the first official visit by a head of state from either side in seven years. And though both sides worked over time to lower public expectations, Zardari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said they were satisfied with the outcome of the visit,” the daily said.
“On the face of it, India and Pakistan seem keen to put aside contentious issues for the time being and focus on building investments and trade links.”
–IANS/WAM
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