New Delhi : 25-12-2007.

Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasreen on Tuesday thanked Marxist veteran Jyoti Basu for saying she can return to Kolkata if she chooses.

In turn, Nasreen hoped that she would return to the city soon.

"I am grateful to Jyoti Basu for expressing his concern and also saying I am welcome in Kolkata," the 46-year-old writer said.

She was reacting to Basu saying that she could return to Kolkata if she chooses to, but the Centre will have to ensure her security.

"I hope I will be able to return home (Kolkata) soon," the author said.

Basu is the first CPI(M) leader to speak in a tone different from his party leadership for the exiled writer.

By Shamsheer (H)