Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and Pakistan Punjab chief minister Shahbaz Sharif jointly inaugurated the eight-day Punjab Youth Festival-2012 and Dosti Cup for deaf and mute teams.
Speaking on the occasion, Sukhbir said he had been making efforts to promote
traditional games, especially between India and Pakistan, as sports was the most effective confidence-building measure.
Sukhbir said the two World Cup Kabaddi tournaments organised by the Punjab government had reiterated the resolve of people of both countries to regain glory in traditional games of Asia and make collective efforts. He said his five-day visit to Pakistan was aimed at strengthening trade, commerce and sports relations between both countries. He said the Dosti Cup would bring India and Pakistan together to hone their sporting talent.
Sharif said he was so enthused by Sukhbir's initiatives that he would go to Bathinda as the chief guest during the third edition of the World Cup Kabaddi in December.
He said the Joint Business Committee constituted by both Punjabs would boost trade and commerce through the Attari-Wagah border.