Pakistan ready to invite Indian PM to watch matches

Pakistan today said it would invite Manmohan Singh, the prime minister of India, if he wishes to watch any of the matches in the series that starts with the first Test at Lahore on January 13.

India had invited Gen Musharraf last year during Pakistan's tour after the general said in a newspaper interview that he was not averse to going over to watch a match if invited. Tasnim Aslam, Pakistan foreign office spokesperson, said, on its part the Pakistan government would welcome the reciprocal visit by Singh.

Asked whether Pakistan had extended an invitation, "not as yet", was her reply. However, she added: "I cannot confirm it nor rule it out. If the prime minister wishes to come, an invitation will be extended. The Indian team is arriving on a 45-day tour. It is long enough for anything to happen. Hopefully for the best."