Pakistan should tread with care
The two-day visit by the US Secretary of State is over. John Kerry who was here to lead his team in the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue met both the political and military leaders of the country. Washington has agreed to continue supporting Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. While it might be less than what Islamabad expected, it has also agreed to provide $250 million for the rehabilitation of the IDPs. Nawaz Sharif has in turn reiterated the country’s commitment to fight till the last terrorist is eliminated from Pakistan. The type of heroics have however failed to convince the US.
Despite the goodwill expressed at the Aziz-Kerry press conference, it was clear that some of the differences between the two sides remained unresolved. While Sartaj Aziz complained about the violation of the Line of Control by India, Kerry made it known that despite being concerned over the spate of violence on the border, Pakistan and India alone could overcome the historical mistrust by re-engaging in a serious dialogue. Aziz however maintained that there could be no talks with India without Kashmir being on the agenda.
Another serious difference was on Pakistan’s claim of fighting all terrorists without exception. Kerry insisted that Islamabad was required to fight not only the terrorists that threatened Pakistan but also those who used its territory to target Afghan, American and Indian interests. He particularly mentioned Afghan Taliban, Haqqani Network and the LeT, implying that these were being spared by Islamabad. This explains why the White House has so far failed to certify that Pakistan fully abides by the criteria to enable it to get the remaining finds from the Kerry-Lugar-Burman Act.
Pakistan needs to get rid of all terrorist groups including those which for certain reasons are not targeting it presently. Past experience shows they could start brutal attacks whenever they become unhappy with the government’s policies. This alone can ensure complete freedom from terror which is so needed to improve the investor confidence as well as better relations with neighbours.
