The present government has marked good progress to flourish its foreign policy in a better way. The bilateral dialogue with Russia, UK, USA, Iran, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Saudi Arabia are also under way. It shows its commitment to strengthen Pakistan’s foreign policy. It has taken satisfactory steps to improve relations with India, a neighbouring country.
However, the bilateral relation between Pak-India is story of various ups and downs. But it would not wrong to say that most of the time relation has remained tense and under chaos. Two big wars of 1965, 1971 are proof of it. The issues of Kargil and Sir Creek also brought huge catastrophe in their relationship. Both courtiers wanted to solve all issues through power of their military in the shape of war.
At present, very situation has become changed into good at the end of both sides. They seem much sincere and serious to bring solutions to all hanged issues with the help of dialogue and sustain peace. Both countries are grazing the path towards process of normalization. The omen must be interpreted as positive and good one.
‘Realistically speaking, the commencement of dialogue between Pakistan and India show the maturity and realization for each other’s importance at both ends.’ It is a significant breakthrough because the dialogue between two countries has been resumed after couple of years that was closed due to the Mumbai incidents in 2008.
Moreover, two countries resumed their stagnant trade when Indian commerce delegation visited Pakistan to hold a meeting with its counterpart in Islamabad on April 27, 201. The trade teams of both countries discussed the issues and obstacles related to trade ‘the point where it was derailed’ in 2007. The key points discussed during the meeting were to open of branches of two private sector banks, eliminate of non-tariff barriers, increase business visas and open more trade routes. Two teams decided to boost their trade from $2 billion per year to $5 billion per year. The worth-mentioning point here is that Strategic Trade Policy Framework for 3 years (2009-12) is underway that will be the first time in the history of two countries.
INAYAT ALI GOPANG
Islamabad
