In a fresh squabble over the Kashmir issue, Pakistan and India have got involved in a diplomatic tussle. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed a tough stance regarding any engagement with India by declaring it untenable” over what he called its anti-Muslim policies, especially in Indian-administered Kashmir. He highlighted the old dispute during his address at the UN session as well as during his talks with media persons.
It is high time Pakistan and India got rid of their hostility and jointly worked for improving ties. Pakistani and Indian governments and establishments need to grow up. The conflict between Pakistan and India is counted as one of the oldest rivalries. The world is observing the insanity of the leadership of both countries, who have failed to ascertain the advantages of peace and trade. The process to change the status quo between Pakistan and India, desired by many, can be helped by developing people-to-people contacts and improving diplomatic relations.
So far the existing trust deficit has not been bridged, and positive initiatives and efforts are needed to rewrite the narrative between Pakistan and India. Viewed from the lens of the tit-for-tat reaction characterised by the churlish belligerence of the two states, it appears that Pakistan and India are pushing the boundaries of acceptable diplomatic attacks to vilify each other. And this is a very dangerous road to take as it could further strain the existing relationship. In this chaotic situation, there is the need to have the political will for bringing an end to decades long mistrust and resentment. The leadership of both countries must rise above all differences for the establishment of permanent peace. Instead of sticking to the traditional mindset of undermining each other, both sides need to show flexibility. They must compromise on the larger national, regional and global interests.
The two neighbourly states have failed to come on good terms since their independence from British rule. They are still unable to find ways and means to end unnecessary hostility and get rid of the so-called superiority complex. The dividends that peace offers are unlimited and achievable through the establishment of long-lasting peace in the region. The leadership of both countries must resolve all bilateral issues in a civilised manner. They must listen to each other’s opinions, address grievances and seek solutions. The trade and economic prospects between both states are enormous and cannot be ignored. Instead of making a mountain out of a molehill, both governments need to resolve all issues by getting engaged in peace talks. In this regard, the role of media is very important. Instead of becoming a source of creating rifts, media from both sides need to search for common ground and help build a pathway to peace.
