India’s Commitment to Peaceful Relations with Pakistan Dependent on Counterterrorism Efforts

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed India’s intent to improve relations with Pakistan, provided that the latter ceases its historical patterns of terrorism. He highlighted the impact of Pakistan’s prior decisions on trade relations and stated that future cooperation depends largely on Pakistan’s readiness to change its behavior.

In a recent address before the Lok Sabha, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar articulated India’s desire to foster amicable relations with Pakistan, emphasizing that such engagements must be devoid of terrorism. He underscored that while India is open to improving its ties with Pakistan, any progress hinges on Pakistan demonstrating a commitment to modifying its historical behaviors that compromise bilateral relations. The minister remarked that these matters lie significantly in Pakistan’s hands, implying that conducive actions from Pakistan are essential for revitalizing relations between the two neighbors. Furthermore, he noted that trade relations have been strained due to Pakistan’s decisions following the revocation of Article 370, which previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The relations between India and Pakistan have a complex history that has been marred by conflicts and terrorism. The revocation of Article 370 in August 2019 by India heightened tensions and disrupted trade ties between the two nations. Discussions surrounding bilateral relations often highlight the need for Pakistan to alter its approach towards terrorism as a prerequisite for improved diplomatic engagement. Jaishankar’s remarks reflect the Indian government’s longstanding stance on fostering peaceful neighborly relations, conditioned on the reduction of terrorist activities.

In summary, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed the country’s openness to establishing better relations with Pakistan, contingent upon an unequivocal reduction in terrorist activities emanating from the latter. The implications of Pakistan’s actions on the bilateral relationship remain critical, and the need for constructive dialogue is greater than ever. As India looks to reshape its engagement policy, the onus rests with Pakistan to evolve towards a more cooperative relationship, especially in trade matters disrupted since 2019.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com