Sartaj Aziz not allowed to visit Golden Temple for security concerns: India

Citing security reasons for not allowing Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Advisor on Foreign Affairs, Sartaj Aziz to visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the Indian government said that Islamabad has no reason to complain.

According to sources, India extended conveniences keeping in mind security requirements, and therefore, Pakistan has no reason to complain.

Sources were also of the view that India acted like a good host. Apart from extending tarmac access, giving additional rooms and providing armoured cars (not given to every foreign minister), their arrival was advanced in Amritsar by the more than twelve hours.

Also, a fresh flight clearance was provided due to which Pakistan's envoy could mark his presence at an official dinner on December 3.

India even went to the extent of allowing the arrival and departure of Pakistan nationals, by air in Amritsar, which is not a designated airport for entry and exit.

Pakistan, yesterday asserted that Aziz was neither allowed to visit the Golden Temple, nor was he allowed to speak to Pakistan media personnel present at the venue of the Heart of Asia Conference.

Aziz was in India to participate in the Heart of Asia Summit held On December 4 in Amritsar.