The tug of war between the US and Pakistan has finally ended after the magic word was uttered by the fairy godmother Hilary Clinton. One must realise that apologising does not always mean that one is wrong and the other right, but that one values the relationship more than one’s ego. So, it is ultimately implied that Pakistan is very crucial a nation in South Asia and that it has been acting absolutely generously towards this war by offering both its territory and its armed forces for the cause. The closure of the Nato supply routes was just one of many decisions that had generated conflict with the US. Many of these divergences of views between the two countries have not just affected the war on terror but have had an adverse on Pakistan in particular has had to suffer multiple setbacks because of the ensuing impasse.
The reopening of the supply routes surely will be beneficial for all stakeholders involved in the counter-insurgency movement. The Pakistani decision to unblock the routes shows a visible maturity in handling the affairs. At this point, it certainly cannot afford to be isolated and US-Pak harmony is a prerequisite for leading this war to a conclusion.
The unblocking also goes a long way to show that we are still ready to pursue the long war objectives of purging the territory from militancy. The sacrifices of our soldiers ought to be acknowledged and our commitment must also be realised globally. This decision ought to be welcomed as it will have positive affects on the economic front. Not only will CSF payments be made but it would also help the local transporters earn their living as they have been the worst sufferers.
Pakistan also must wake up to realise its own interests after weighing the options. The withholding of the Coalition Support Funds and other aid money, it must be understood is something that Pakistan can ill afford at a time when the WoT becomes a colossal strain on the economy. In the absence of a strong case to project in front of the world, Pakistan ought to duck down from the various blows inflicted upon it to save its face, body and interest till it become strong and gains enough strength to take appropriate care of national affairs.
KABIL KHAN
Peshawar
(II)
This is with reference to the DCC’s decision to reopen NATO supply routes.
A small segment of society which is unnecessarily raising objections and calling for mass protests should understands that hostility must not be given way to spoil the relations out of emotionalism. Enough has been done in terms of punishment for the US forces’ deliberate aerial attack on Salala check-post by sending a clear message that any such attempt by the US in future would carry severe repercussions. Also the opening of NATO supply would have a positive impact on the bilateral relations and pave the way for resolving long pending issues. It would also allow Pakistan to play its role for peace and stability in the region in a more effective manner.
The decision to open GLOC has been taken keeping in view the best of national interests under the parliamentary guidelines therefore it should be respected by all the factions of the society within Pakistan.
A’AYAN HUSSAIN
Islamabad
