Pakistan’s peace overtures

It seems that India remains unfazed by Pakistan’s recent peace overtures. Statements by Indian leaders on the occasion of India’s Independence Day are a testimony to that. Well, that is not a very good sign for the peace and stability of the region. Without any shadow of doubt, there is a trust deficit between the two nations seen as traditional nuclear rivals, who have fought three wars since their creation. One thing that leaders of both sides should consider is as to how this rivalry is of any benefit to their respective countrymen in the long run. Both countries are faced with similar problems, intensities of which may vary. Some of the lingering issues are: a lack of world-class health services, education and the list goes on.
It is high time; leaders on both sides of the border should set aside their differences and chalk out a joint strategy to eradicate these problems. Having said that, I know this is not as simple as it appears. But at least, there should be a shift in our views toward each other. Both nations have so much in common, be it history, culture and language etc. Instead of wasting our resources on purchase and development of arms, the same funds could be allocated for the uplift of the people of the sub-continent. It is true; today the biggest challenge for Pakistan is terrorism. And Pakistan may appear to be the epicenter of terrorist activities but it should also be seen as the biggest victim as well. Not a day passes without a blast or two killing scores of innocent Pakistani civilians. In this time of crisis, neighboring countries are expected to help Pakistan find ways to fight the menace. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s neighbors are doing exactly the opposite. They indulge in a blame game in the aftermath of any terrorist incident in their respective countries and start blasting Pakistan. Had there been peace and harmony in Pakistan, such accusations would have been justified. But Pakistan itself has become a soft target for elements that are the product of ill-conceived policies of the global powers. It should be kept in mind that it all started after the invasion of Afghanistan. Pakistan played its due role by joining the world efforts against terrorism. What did it get in return?
Dead bodies of its soldiers and civilians, internal instability, a crumbling economy and accusations from its strategic partners and neighbors is what Pakistan has “gained” for its efforts against the menace. All countries especially, the neighbors should understand Pakistan’s predicament and extend cooperation to help Pakistan get rid of the problems it is facing. It should be noted that a stable Pakistan is crucial for a long-lasting peace in the region. — Muhammad Azlan, Riyadh