ISLAMABAD: Inter-Services Intelligence agency chief Lt. Gen. Ahmed Shuja Pasha attended an iftar dinner hosted by Indian High Commissioner Sharat Sabharwal in the Islamabad on Thursday, Geo news reported.

Pasha was the senior-most representative from the Pakistani side at the event held at a hotel this evening. His presence created a flutter among the gathering.

Though both Indian and Pakistani officials sought to play down his presence, observers said Pasha’s decision to attend the event was “a strong signal”, especially in view of the strained ties between the two countries in the wake of the Mumbai terror attacks.

On being welcomed by Sabharwal at the venue, Pasha remarked that he was glad to attend the event and there should be “more interaction”. The ISI chief broke his fast and offered prayers before sampling some of the delicacies on offer.

Pasha, who was accompanied by a senior ISI official, left after a short while though most of the guests, including Foreign Office officials, retired diplomats and officials, artists and businessmen, stayed longer.

In July, Pasha had suggested during a meeting with India’s defence advisors that the ISI and the Pakistan Army should find a place in the bilateral talks with India as they play a key role in helping the foreign ministry formulate its policies.