During the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Pervez Musharraf, President of Pakistan, held a long conversation with Israeli opposition leader, Shimon Peres, and even shook his hand, Maariv website reported on Friday.
The meeting resulted from a random encounter between the two figures. Musharraf recognized Peres among the hundreds of guests at the hotel’s main lobby, approached him, and warmly shook his hand, the Tel Aviv-based newspaper reported. Peres was the one to initiate the conversation, saying: “Mr. President, there are so many rumors about the relations being formed between our countries”.
Musharraf smiled heartily and confirmed the message. “We are undertaking great efforts for this to happen”, he said, but added: “You hold the responsibility to move forward with the Palestinians”.
At the end of the conversation, Peres invited Musharraf to visit Israel, with the Pakistani president replying: “Inshallah” (God willing) as the two parted warmly. Musharraf then turned to answer Maariv’s question about his intention to accept Peres’ invitation, saying that once ties between the two sides are normalized, he will be glad to visit Israel. (Albawaba.com)
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
