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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, on Monday, termed the Pakistan-India World Cup semi-final as a stepping stone for improved relations between the two countries.
Gilani visited India last month to watch the high-tempo match after being invited by his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh.
“The match certainly helped break the ice and provided a venue to improve our relations with India,” Gilani told reporters at his residence following a meeting with the national cricketers.
Gilani said the match, termed an outing for cricket diplomacy, was a triumph for both nations in terms of resumption of diplomatic ties.
The prime minister hosted a reception to honour Pakistan’s World Cup squad for their last-four finish at the tournament.
“We have a very competent team that showed its quality by exceeding the expectations.”
Pakistan won six of their eight World Cup matches, which included wins over former world champions Australia as well as co-hosts and losing finalists Sri Lanka.
“They performed really well despite all the controversies and problems that have been plaguing them recently and I salute them for that,” Gilani said.
All team members were awarded one million rupees by the PM, while team officials received Rs.500,000.
“I am very pleased with the way the team members conducted themselves in India and I wish them success for the future,” said the PM, adding he expects Pakistan to be the finalists in the next World Cup.
