Current State of India-Pakistan Relations: The Call for Dialogue and Peace

Former Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri described current India-Pakistan relations as at an all-time low, emphasizing the need for dialogue to resolve disputes, particularly regarding Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged potential for unexpected positive shifts and suggested that initiatives such as cricket diplomacy could assist in improving relations. Kasuri stressed that persistent tensions have hindered economic progress and called for immediate constructive exchanges between the two nations.

Former Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri has characterized the present state of relations between India and Pakistan as among the most severe in history, aside from periods of direct conflict, while acknowledging the potential for sudden positive changes. Speaking at the ‘Pakistan-India Relations – Current Situation and the Way Forward’ event hosted by the Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC), he emphasized that only dialogue can lead to resolution of existing disputes.

Kasuri highlighted the historical context, noting that even after wars, both nations have returned to dialogue quickly. He expressed concerns about missing an opportunity for peaceful resolution, especially considering the previously proposed four-point formula regarding Jammu and Kashmir by former President Pervez Musharraf, which remains a viable pathway.

Having served as foreign minister from 2002 to 2007, and having worked with governments led by both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, Kasuri emphasized the silent majority in India who desire peace with Pakistan. He argued that despite current tensions, relations can experience unexpected positive developments based on historical precedents.

He reminisced about notable instances, such as President Musharraf’s visit to India post-Kargil and Prime Minister Modi’s surprising meeting with then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in 2015. Kasuri posited that forthcoming geopolitical shifts, particularly under leadership changes in the U.S., could provide new opportunities for improved relations.

Furthermore, he pointed out the dire economic realities faced by both nations and criticized the ongoing tensions which have impeded progress relative to other countries. Kasuri reaffirmed that consistent dialogue remains the sole solution and warned that terrorism continues to threaten bilateral relationships.

In addition, Ashis Ray, author and journalist, advocated for cricket diplomacy and cultural exchanges to mend the strained ties. He urged that constructive dialogues should begin promptly, suggesting that if reconciliation is possible between the U.S. and Russia, it should also be achievable for India and Pakistan.

In summary, the remarks from Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri underscore the critical need for dialogue between India and Pakistan amidst historically low relations. The emphasis on potential positive shifts and the call for utilizing established frameworks to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir issue signal a path forward. Additionally, the suggestions of cultural and diplomatic engagements indicate that avenues for thawing relations exist. Continued efforts toward dialogue may prove essential for peace and development in both nations.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com