The former Pakistani Foreign Minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri described the current India-Pakistan relations as severely strained, emphasizing that dialogue remains essential for resolution. He called attention to a framework for addressing the Jammu and Kashmir issue, reiterated the desire for peace among the Indian populace, and highlighted opportunities for diplomatic surprises. Ashis Ray proposed cultural initiatives to ease tensions as well.
Former Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri has indicated that the current state of India-Pakistan relations is among the worst in their history, aside from wartime periods. Speaking at the Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC) event titled ‘Pakistan-India Relations – Current Situation and the Way Forward,’ he emphasized that a constructive dialogue remains the only viable solution for both nations to address their outstanding issues.
Kasuri lamented the missed opportunities for peaceful dispute resolution, particularly regarding the Jammu and Kashmir issue, which could be negotiated using the four-point formula proposed by former President Pervez Musharraf. He noted that historically, even after conflicts, the two countries have often returned to negotiations, indicating a potential for future dialogue.
Drawing from his experience serving under both BJP and Congress administrations, Kasuri expressed optimism that a majority of the Indian populace desires peace with Pakistan despite current tensions. He highlighted past instances where sudden diplomatic gestures significantly affected relations, referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s surprising visit to Nawaz Sharif in 2015.
The former foreign minister also remarked on the geopolitical shifts since Donald Trump’s presidency, suggesting these changes could foster better relations between Pakistan and India. He pointed out the social challenges both nations face, with high poverty levels, attributing these issues to longstanding hostility and urging dialogue as the primary means to progress.
Ashis Ray, an author and journalist, also spoke at the event, advocating for initiatives such as cricket diplomacy and cultural exchanges to thaw relations. He posited that if reconciliation is possible between countries like the United States and Russia, similar progress should be attainable between India and Pakistan.
In summary, Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri emphasized the dire state of India-Pakistan relations, advocating for dialogue as the principal means of resolution. He referenced historical precedents of peace efforts post-conflict, suggesting that despite current tensions, opportunities for positive shifts remain. Additionally, Ashis Ray’s suggestions for cricket diplomacy underscore the potential for cultural engagement to improve bilateral ties.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
