NRI industrialists optimistic of summit

LONDON, JULY 15. Several NRI industrialists have expressed optimism about the Indo-Pak. summit in Agra and hoped it would facilitate normalisation of ties between New Delhi and Islamabad.

``The summit is an attempt by our Prime Minister to go the extra mile to produce harmonious and peaceful relations and peace in our part of the world,'' the High Commissioner to the U.K., Mr. Nareshwar Dayal said at the third Indo-British Cooperation banquet here. ``We are hopeful that the leaders are able to direct us for proceeding towards normalisation of relations between our two countries... This of course is a great need and ardent desire of India''.

Both Mr. Dayal and his British counterpart, Sir Rob Young, referred to the ``growing Indo-British relations'' in all areas, including political, economic, cultural and educational fields.

Sir Young congratulated the Indian Government for taking the initiative for the Vajpayee-Musharraf summit and hoped that it would lead to restoration of peace between the two countries.

Referring to the summit, Air Chief Marshal, N.C. Suri, president of the NRI institute, said, ``we desire peace with Pakistan. We have enough of problems in our own country and we don't want any problems with Pakistan. We have no ambitions against Pakistan or any other country''. He hoped the Agra summit would materialise in something good for both the countries.

The Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Omar Abdullah, who was to attend the banquet was sent by Prime Minister, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee on a special mission to the middle east countries to explain New Delhi's viewpoint on the summit, he said.

Dr. S.P. Sharma, chairman, NRI institute (U.K.) said the British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, should ``come out openly for a seat for India as well in the expanded Security Council''

India is the only country among the developing nations which has always upheld the principle of U.N. by supporting its peace initiatives in different parts of the world, he said.

Referring to Indo-British ties, Mr. Suri said the Indo-British relationship has today moved beyond the nostalgia of a common history. ``Today it is based on strong business commitment, cultural and academic interest''.

- PTI

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Section  : International
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