Abdul Basit arrives in Kolkata to hold talks with Mamata Banerjee

Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit arrived in Kolkata on Tuesday and is scheduled to call on state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday to discuss ways for augmenting relations between West Bengal and the four provinces in Pakistan.

Noting that both India and Pakistan were democratic and federations where federating units (states) have an important role to play towards promoting bilateral relations at all levels and in all spheres, a statement from the Pakistan High Commission said the visit to Kolkata was aimed at exploring bilateral opportunities and enhancing mutual understanding. 

"Pakistan is keen to develop normal relations with India on the basis of mutual interests and sovereign equality. It is imperative that we resolve all our disputes and issues through dialogue," the statement said. Basit is here on a three day visit during which he will be addressing fellows of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies. He will be attending an informal dinner reception hosted by Kolkata press club. 

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