As an Indian, I was a bit concerned when I heard that the new tenants in the building where I had lived for some eight months were Pakistani. We didn’t meet for a long time but finally we ran into each other and exchanged the normal pleasantries. Things went no further because our working hours were very different but we co-existed peacefully and smiled when we met. As time went on, the man volunteered to help me in various ways and I found it good to have him around. In fact, since being in Saudi Arabia, I have observed that most Indians and Pakistanis get on very well together. Not only that, they provide emotional support for each other at difficult times. I am not of course referring to cricket matches in Sharjah!
At the same time, it saddens me that the recent troubles between India and Pakistan dominate all debate between the two. One question that begs to be answered is why two countries sharing such languages as Urdu, Punjabi and Sindhi and having a similar cuisine and culture, do not trust each other. The seeds of hatred sown in the past appear to have blossomed. Now we have politicians in both countries who simply play to the worst aspects of human nature. At the very least, this behavior is a real threat to peace and stability. We have even heard talk of a war — though I cannot believe that any sane person could imagine that our two countries, each with a nuclear arsenal, could possibly resort to war. Remember, if one resorts to war, especially a nuclear one, not many will survive to discuss either winners or losers! Even in a non-nuclear war, untold miseries and suffering would be unleashed on both populations. We can see how it becomes of major importance that the number of irresponsible statements coming from politicians on both sides have to be stopped.
Kashmir of course remains a core issue for Pakistan and cross-border terrorism causes real concern for India. I believe that issues between the countries could be resolved through talks on various levels. It does not really matter whether these talks take months or years to bear fruit. Wise counsel must prevail and steps be taken toward normalization. Now that tempers have cooled somewhat and reconciliation has begun, it is better that even more follow-up actions take place to defuse the charged atmosphere. The need of the hour is sustained efforts to ease tension on both sides. Leaders from both countries must meet as often as possible. One should fear talks getting derailed or what the media publish from its studios. Unlike war, there is always tomorrow when it comes to the negotiating table.
India must believe its neighbor whose leader says he is interested in peace and is willing to cooperate. Indian leaders need to understand that every leader in the world — including Indians — plays survival games. India is both big and powerful and must show magnanimity. It is in the larger interest of both countries that the process of dialogue take place early and regularly. It is time people on both sides realize their follies. India and Pakistan should engage in diplomatic talks once again since the language of war is fraught with the most frightening consequences. Isn’t it enough that both countries have suffered severely on the economic front even without a war?
