Thaindian News

Islamabad, June 14 (IANS) The efforts of a Pakistani rights activist to get six Indian sailors, apart from his own countrymen, released from Somali pirates’ captivity shows Pakistan’s friendly sentiments, which India must reciprocate, a leading Pakistani politician who lives in self-exile has urged.

“Pakistani organisations worked tirelessly to secure the release of the captive Indian sailors as well, proving that Pakistan does not favour hostility but humanity. India must recognise this spirit and reciprocate with amity, not enmity,” Urdu daily Jang Tuesday quoted Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain as saying.

Holding that his comments were addressed to Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, ruling Congress’ chief Sonia Gandhi and the entire Indian leadership, Hussain said it was worthwhile to note that a Pakistani rights organisation headed by Ansar Burney made efforts were made to ensure release of the Indian crewmen as well as the Pakistanis and other captives.

The mistrust and problems of the past must be overcome for a new relationship of friendship, he said.

The comments of the MQM chief, who lives in self-exile in London, came when he was talking on the phone to Sind Governor Ishratul Ibad and Burney in Karachi Monday to congratulate them on the release of the 22 sailors, kidnapped in August last year, who also included four Pakistanis, 11 Egyptians and a Sri Lankan.

Burney, who negotiated with the pirates and raised money through donations, had announced that all hostages had been freed. They would reach their homes in a few days as arrangements are being made for their repatriation, he added.

India had welcomed the release of the six Indian sailors, but refused to confirm if their freedom was obtained by Burney.

The MQM, which largely represents the Urdu-speakers in Pakistan, is the fourth-largest party in the National Assembly and the second largest in Sindh.