The joint statement is yet another affirmation of the fraternal relations between China and Pakistan which have withstood the test of times. To many Pakistanis who were haunted by a sense of isolation in the wake of the May 2 episode, the message from Beijing has provided solace and confidence. China has agreed to help Pakistan acquire 50 JF-17 fighter jets to replace its aging fleet of warplanes thus bolstering its defense. Pakistan’s economy would benefit from Chinese targeted cooperation in infrastructure development, energy and agriculture which is proposed to be extended on priority basis.
Meanwhile, the establishment needs to deeply consider the implications of some of the principles enunciated in the joint statement. While China applauded the role of Pakistan in the war on terror, Beijing also underlined its overwhelming concern for regional peace and security stressing that terrorism, separatism, and extremism posed serious threats to the desired goal. To allay widespread apprehension, Pakistan had to unilaterally reiterate that it would never allow its territory to be used to attack any country. Despite Beijing’s strong differences with India, particularly on the delimitation of the international borders, Chinese leadership has invariably avoided resolving the issue through war. Even in 1962, its forces retaliated only after India forcibly occupied the Chinese land. The lesson for Pakistan is to concentrate on economic and social development while keeping its disputes with India on the backburner.
There is a need on the part of the establishment to treat the terrorists as an existential threat. Over the next many years Pakistan will have to focus on eliminating the terrorist groups of all hues and colours. The government cannot afford to look the other way as terrorist organisations continue to operate under different names. Military operations against terrorist havens will have to be undertaken. Simultaneously, there is also a need for eliminating the extremist thinking through curriculum reform and a well thought out media campaign.
