LAHORE, Aug 31: Two Indian women arrived here on Friday to thank the people and the government of Pakistan for their help in the release of their husbands from Somali pirates.

Rights activist Ansar Burni, who played a role in securing the release of Pakistanis and Indians, greeted Sinpa Ariya and Madhu Sharma at the Wagah border.

Talking to reporters, the Indian women said they owed a lot to the Pakistanis for helping in the release of their husbands.

“It is due to the Pakistanis’ help that our husbands are alive and with us,” they said.

Ms Ariya said she wanted to visit Pakistan. “People were surprised when I told them that I was more interested in visiting Pakistan, especially Lahore, than the UK or the USA,” she said. She said efforts to bring both countries closer should continue. They are on a four-day visit to Pakistan. They will see Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad and thank him for his efforts for the release of their husbands.Burni said time was not far away when there would be peace between the two countries. He said the people of both countries wanted peace and stability and efforts should be made for this purpose. — Staff Reporter