Chennai (PTI): Reflecting the warming up of ties between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, a statue of Kannada poet Sarvajna will be unveiled here on Thursday by Karnatake Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa.

On the eve of the reciprocal function, Tamil Nadu Information Minister Parithi Ilamvazhuthi called on Mr. Yeddyurappa in Bangalore and invited him for Thursday's programme on behalf of the state government.

Mr. Yeddyurappa will unveil the statue in the presence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi who on Sunday last unveiled the bust of renowned Tamil saint-poet Thiruvalluvar in Bangalore.

The new developments, seen as a sort of statue diplomacy, are attempts by the two neighbouring states to bury 18 years of bitterness on issues, including sharing of Cauvery water.

In a display of bonhomie, Mr. Karunanidhi had described his Karnataka counterpart as 'Thambi' (younger brother) at the Thiruvalluvar statue unveiling function and Mr. Yeddyurappa had also responded with equal warmth.

Both the leaders have said the development would help in better understanding between people of the two states.