Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to undergo open heart surgery; PM Modi wishes speedy recovery

Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is currently in London for medical check-up, will undergo open-heart surgery on May 31, officials said.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed the news on Friday saying that doctors have advised Sharif to undergo an open-heart surgery, following which the premier will be staying in the hospital for a week, Dawn online reported.

"The prime minister will travel after one week, on doctor`s permission," he added.

The prime minister`s daughter Maryam Nawaz Sharif, also confirmed that her father will undergo the surgery.

"Prayers are the most effective and potent medicines. Millions will pray for him so he will be fine," Maryam tweeted.

She explained the prime minister medical condition, saying "In 2011 Nawaz Sharif had a cardiac procedure called `Atrial Fibrillation Ablation`, during which certain complications occurred resulting in perforation of heart which was in turn treated by open heart surgery."

Therefore, the prime minister had been visiting his doctor for follow up, she said.

This is Nawaz Sharif`s second trip to London for medical check-up in few weeks` time.

The prime minister underwent a check-up in Pakistan last month following which he decided to visit London for a proper medical check-up.

Modi extends best wishes to Sharif

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his best wishes to his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharif who will undergo an open heart surgery on May 31.

"My best wishes to PM Nawaz Sharif for his open heart surgery on Tuesday. And for his speedy recovery and good health," Modi tweeted.