India PM Narendra Modi seeks to improve relations with Pakistan via cricket

India and Pakistan fans during a cricket match

New Delhi, May 12: Despite apprehensions raised by some BJP MPs about a proposed India-Pakistan cricket series, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is determined to break the ice with the neighbouring country through "cricket diplomacy", informed sources here said.

"We have taken the decision to start a cricket series between both countries to improve our relations," said Modi on Tuesday during a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) parliamentary party meeting, a BJP MP who was present told IANS on the condition of anonymity.

Apprehensions expressed about India-Pakistan series

Soon after a resolution was adopted appreciating initiatives taken by the Modi government during its first year in office, Modi said some of the members have expressed concern against the series and that is why he was "clearing the air", said the source.

Party lawmaker R.K. Singh, a former union home secretary, had raised apprehension over the issue in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Cricketer-turned-BJP MP Kirti Azad had also opposed the move.

The parliamentary party also commended Modi for his achievements during the past one year in office and a resolution was passed in this regard, the source said. The resolution appreciated the prime minister's efforts for enhancing India's image among the international community, the MP told IANS.