KARACHI, Dec 19: The All India Congress Committee chief Sonia Gandhi has sent a message, which was read at the conference by Suresh Keswani, and its Sindhi translation was read by Laxman Bhatia Komal.

In her message, Ms Gandhi said: "Sindh is of India and Pakistan symbolize the rich ties of shared culture, language and history that bind our countries. Sindhi culture and literature has a long noble tradition of secularism, universal brotherhood and peace, and it is heartening to know that this conference will pay homage to these values.

"Meaningful people-to-people contacts, such as those encouraged on this occasion, will ensure that these bonds, and the teachings of Sindhi saints Shah, Sachal and Saami are revived.

"From my own experiences, I know that members of the Sindhi Academy, Delhi, who are attending the conference, will have received a welcome that is as heart-warming and hospitable as only the Pakistanis can be. I hope, we in India will soon have an opportunity to welcome members of Pakistani's Sindhi community in our country.

"I send my warm greetings and good wishes to all those participating in this conference, which, I am confident, will help foster understanding, friendship and cooperation between India and Pakistan," she concluded.