Indian community in Dubai joins Pakistanis in mourning

Dubai, Dec 29 (UNI) The Indian community in the UAE has joined Pakistanis in mourning the demise of Pakistan People's Party Chairperson and former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

As a mark of respect, a one-minute silence was observed during two Indian community programmes held on the weekend. Thursday's event was organised by the Consulate-General of India in Dubai at Indian High School's Shaikh Rashid Auditorium to mark the country's 60 years of Independence.

Indian Consul-General Venu Rajamony paid tributes to the departed soul and said, ''This is even more tragic for us in Dubai since Benazir had lived here for eight years and her children are still living here. My prayers are for all members of her family, friends, and the people of Pakistan. I pray that they may have the strength to tide over this difficult period.'' Also yesterday morning, one minute of silence was observed during a devotional songs session at the Indian Consulate attended by more than 800 people, including school children and their parents, the Khaleej Times reported.

Speaking on the occasion, Ram Buxani, Executive Vice-Chairman of ITL Group and Founder Chairman of the erstwhile Overseas Indian Economic Forum, said, ''Violent protests are taking place in Pakistan and we pray that peace is restored in that country.'' UNI