The recommendations come through
Despite all the wrangling that has gone on, both PML(N) and JUI(F) finally attended the joint session and agreed to vote for the amended recommendations of the PCNS. The revised policy terms do not explicitly address the issue of Nato supplies. The provision regarding Pakistan territory or its airspace not to be allowed for the transportation of arms and ammunition, however, implicitly allows the resumption of non-lethal supplies to Nato troops. What remains now is for the government to take an executive decision in this regard.
The PCNS report has a long list of demands, the topmost being an end to drone strikes. Other demands include an unconditional apology for the attack, bringing those responsible for the Salala killings to justice, assurances that acts impinging on Pakistan’s sovereignty will not recur nor will there be any overt or covert operations inside Pakistan. The report also foresees the end of foreign bases inside the country. The international community is required to provide greater market access to Pakistan’s exports in recognition of the sacrifices rendered by the country in the war against extremist militancy.
To encourage Gilani to take an early decision on the resumption of Nato traffic, Washington will have to yield on some of the demands to provide Islamabad some sort of face saving. It remains to be seen what is acceptable to the US. The Obama administration considers the CIA-led drone campaign a vital tool to dismantle the ability of Al-Qaeda and its affiliates to target US interests. Washington maintains that the Salala attack was the result of a series of mistakes and botched communications on both sides. Action against the US soldiers therefore remains a difficult proposition. An apology from the US, however, might not pose any problem. While Gilani has called the decision by the parliament a milestone, it is yet to be seen how many of its suggestions can be finally implemented. The recommendations requiring parliamentary endorsement of military to military agreements and MoUs would bring the important area under civilian oversight. The recommendations regarding regional peace too would allow diplomacy a central role. Both are likely to be regarded historic if they are implemented in letter and spirit.
