A Pakistani school principal, whose daughter was operated upon here for a heart condition, has expressed the hope that more people-to-people contacts will lead to better India-Pakistan ties.

A thankful Mohammed Shabas (44), whose daughter was operated free of charge at the Kerala Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) hospital here, said this gesture would help strengthen bonds between the two neighbouring countries.

"This surgery would certainly help the relationship between our countries. I am really grateful to all who worked so hard," Shabas told IANS.

His family will know by Feb 5 when they can return home to Lahore and Shabas said he would tell everyone in Pakistan about the memorable visit to India.

"People in my hometown are anxious that the two countries should come closer and free movement of people should be allowed," he added.

His 13-year-old daughter Ayesha Shabas underwent a three-hour surgery last Sunday for a hole in her heart and to repair a valve.

Ayesha, who is recovering fast, told IANS she was thrilled to be here and very happy that she could lead a normal life after the surgery.

"I feel I am a normal person now. I have already started to walk and now I want to go home and tell my friends about the excellent time here and the love and affection I have got."

Ayesha and her parents arrived here Jan 18 - the day that firing on the Line of Control between India and Pakistan broke the 13-month ceasefire.

Behind the successful surgery was a year of hard work, negotiations and overcoming of diplomatic barriers.

For the organsers, Rotary International, it took almost a year of talks and close to 5,000 e-mails between various organisations in Pakistan to facilitate Ayesha's passage to India.

Of the total Rs.400,000 ($9150) expenses, Rotary has chipped in with Rs.250,000 ($5,700). KIMS took care of the surgery and hospital expenses that cost Rs.150,000 ($3,400).