After a gap of several years, a top Pakistani diplomat attended the Republic day reception hosted by Indian Consul-General Pramathesh Rath, indicating warming of relations between the two countries.

Pakistani Consul General Muhammad Haroon Shaukat was among more than 400 guests, mostly leaders of the Indian American community, who participated in the celebration held on Monday at New India House where the Indian consulate is located. Also present was Chinese Consul General Ambassador Liu Biwei.

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Rath welcomed the guests and read out the address of President A P J Abdul Kalam to the nation on the occasion of the 55th Republic Day.

Interacting with reporters, Shaukat spoke about improving relations between India and Pakistan.