Indo-Pak Relations: Dialogue and Prospects for Peace by Rohan Khanna India

Rohan Khanna

Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri, Pakistan’s former Foreign Minister, hosted an Iftar dinner organized by his Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC) to honor Indian journalist Ashish Ray. The event facilitated discussions on improving Indo-Pak relations, with Kasuri emphasizing the need to address shared challenges like poverty and terrorism, especially in light of changing global geopolitics. Ashish Ray shared his perspectives on the historical relationship between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of focusing on common welfare, trade, and cultural exchange, including restoring diplomatic ties and easing visa restrictions for citizens. He suggested temporarily setting aside contentious issues like Kashmir and terrorism to foster progress in other areas of mutual interest.

Study Guide: Indo-Pak Relations and Regional Dynamics

Quiz

Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

  1. What was the primary purpose of the Iftar dinner hosted by Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri, and who was the special guest of honor?
  2. According to Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri, what global event might create opportunities for improved relations between Pakistan and India, and what potential obstacle did he highlight?
  3. What point did Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri make regarding the development of the South Asian region compared to other parts of Asia?
  4. What was the initial question posed to Ashish Ray regarding Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi, and what was the essence of Ray’s response?
  5. According to Ashish Ray, what is a key difference he observed when comparing the constitutions of India and Pakistan?
  6. How did Ashish Ray describe Mahatma Gandhi’s approach to religion in the context of India’s founding principles?
  7. What concern did Ashish Ray raise regarding the current political climate in India, even while acknowledging the foundational ideals of the nation?
  8. What did Ashish Ray suggest as an initial step the Modi government could take in its dealings with Pakistan to foster better relations?
  9. What specific examples did Ashish Ray provide of people-to-people interactions that could help improve relations between India and Pakistan?
  10. What was Ashish Ray’s opinion on the restoration of High Commissioners between Pakistan and India and the easing of visa restrictions?

Answer Key

  1. The Iftar dinner was organized by former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri’s institution, the Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC), in honor of his Indian friend, journalist Ashish Ray. The primary purpose was to foster dialogue and discussion on Indo-Pak relations among journalists and intellectuals.
  2. Kasuri suggested that President Trump’s victory in America and the resulting changes in geopolitical realities might provide opportunities for improved relations between Pakistan and India. However, he warned that terrorism remains a significant threat to both countries and could hinder diplomatic progress.
  3. Kasuri pointed out that the South Asian region, encompassing Pakistan and India, is lagging behind countries like China, Japan, and ASEAN nations in the field of development. He emphasized the need for both countries to prioritize poverty reduction over conflict.
  4. The initial question asked about the contrasting approaches of Subhash Chandra Bose, who adopted a path of violence, and Mahatma Gandhi, a proponent of non-violence, during India’s independence struggle. Ray acknowledged Bose’s heroism but openly praised Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru’s ideals as the architects of modern India.
  5. Ashish Ray stated that religion has been enshrined in the constitution of Pakistan, which could lead to discrimination. In contrast, he noted that the Indian constitution does not establish any state religion, with leaders like Nehru being atheistic and Gandhi advocating respect for all religions.
  6. Ray described Mahatma Gandhi as believing in the respect of all religions, in accordance with Indian society and earthly realities. He was against the dominance of one religion over another, and these ideals formed the foundation of modern India.
  7. Despite acknowledging the foundational ideals of modern India, Ashish Ray expressed concern over the voices of religious disturbances during the time of the BJP under Prime Minister Modi. He noted that while these may not be at the government level, prejudiced actions and slogans are observed among party supporters and unofficial organizations.
  8. Ashish Ray suggested that the Modi government could initially focus on temporarily setting aside the Kashmir and terrorism issues and instead bring matters of public interest and welfare into discussion, such as establishing trade relations and promoting cricket.
  9. Ashish Ray suggested increasing people-to-people interactions through the resumption of cricket matches in both countries, exchange programs for filmmakers and musicians, and delegations to learn from each other’s experiences. He emphasized the importance of these cultural and sporting exchanges in growing relationships.
  10. Ashish Ray strongly advocated for the immediate restoration of High Commissioners between Pakistan and India and the swift resolution of visa difficulties faced by citizens of both countries, particularly those seeking medical treatment or elderly individuals over sixty.

Essay Format Questions

  1. Analyze the key obstacles and potential opportunities for improved relations between India and Pakistan as discussed by the participants in the Iftar dinner.
  2. Compare and contrast the perspectives of Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri and Ashish Ray on the current state and future possibilities of Indo-Pak relations.
  3. Discuss the significance of people-to-people exchanges, as highlighted by Ashish Ray, in fostering a more positive relationship between India and Pakistan.
  4. Evaluate the arguments presented regarding the role of religion in the formation and governance of India and Pakistan, and consider their implications for bilateral relations.
  5. To what extent do the views expressed in the text suggest a path forward for overcoming the historical complexities and tensions that have characterized Indo-Pak relations?

Glossary of Key Terms

  • Iftar: The meal eaten by Muslims after sunset during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
  • Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC): An institution organized by Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri with the aim of fostering better relations between Pakistan and India.
  • Geopolitical Realities: The influence of geography and demographics on the politics and foreign policy of states.
  • ASEAN: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a political and economic union of 10 member states in Southeast Asia.
  • Indo-Pak Relations: The diplomatic, political, economic, and social interactions and relationship between India and Pakistan.
  • Non-violence: The principle of refraining from the use of physical violence, particularly for political or social change, as famously advocated by Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Bureau Chief: The senior journalist in charge of a news organization’s branch office in a particular region or country.
  • Peace Activist: An individual who actively promotes peace and works towards non-violent solutions to conflict.
  • High Commissioner: The head of a diplomatic mission of one Commonwealth country to another, equivalent to an ambassador.

Briefing Document: Iftar Gathering Focused on Indo-Pak Relations

Subject: Analysis of Themes and Key Ideas from an Iftar Dinner Organized by the Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC)

Executive Summary:

This briefing document summarizes the main themes and important ideas discussed during an Iftar dinner hosted by former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri’s Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC). The event honored Indian journalist and peace activist Ashish Ray and facilitated discussions on the current state and future of Indo-Pak relations. Key themes include the impact of changing global geopolitics (specifically referencing President Trump’s election), the persistent challenges posed by terrorism, the urgent need for regional development and poverty reduction, and concrete suggestions for improving bilateral ties, such as restoring High Commissioners, easing visa restrictions, and fostering cultural and sporting exchanges.

Main Themes and Important Ideas:

1. The Imperative for Improved Indo-Pak Relations:

  • The central focus of the Iftar was on fostering better relations between Pakistan and India. Kasuri Sahib actively organizes programs to this end, involving prominent figures.
  • The presence of individuals like Syed Yawar Ali, Dr. Moeed, former ambassador Shahid Malik, Iqbal Ahmad Khan, and Abdul Razzaq Dawood highlights the continued interest and engagement of influential personalities in this dialogue.
  • Quote: “Former External Affairs Minister, according to his vision and vision, Pakistan India is striving for better relations and in this regard, continues to arrange some programs in which prominent personalities of the country participate.”

2. Impact of Global Geopolitical Shifts:

  • Kasuri highlighted the significant global changes following President Trump’s victory in the US, suggesting that these shifts might create opportunities for improved Indo-Pak relations.
  • Quote: “He said that after President Trump’s victory in America, all over the world… There is a tremor or a storm. It seems the world will not remain the same. Changing geopolitical realities may provide opportunities for improvement in relations between Pakistan and India…”

3. Terrorism as a Persistent Threat:

  • While acknowledging potential opportunities, Kasuri explicitly warned that terrorism remains a significant threat to both Pakistan and India and can undermine diplomatic progress.
  • He referenced an article by former Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran in this context.
  • Quote: “…however they warned that terrorism is a threat to both countries and no one. Can also hurt potential diplomatic progress.”

4. The Urgent Need for Regional Development Over Conflict:

  • Kasuri emphasized the developmental lag in the South Asian region compared to countries like China, Japan, and ASEAN.
  • He stressed the necessity for both Pakistan and India to prioritize poverty reduction and public welfare over conflict.
  • Quote: “It also said that our region is lagging behind China, Japan and ASEAN countries in the field of development. It is imperative for both countries to fight the poverty in their region instead of fighting with each other to remove public backwardness.”

5. Perspectives of Ashish Ray on India’s Foundations and Current Challenges:

  • Ashish Ray, the honored guest, provided insights into India’s historical figures and its constitutional framework.
  • He acknowledged Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as the architects of modern India, despite his own affinity with Subhash Chandra Bose.
  • Ray drew a distinction between the Indian and Pakistani constitutions, noting the explicit inclusion of religion in Pakistan’s constitution, potentially leading to discrimination, while India’s constitution is secular. He mentioned Nehru’s atheism and Gandhi’s respect for all religions.
  • He also acknowledged the presence of religious disturbances and prejudice in India, particularly associated with some elements within the BJP, even if not officially sanctioned by the government.
  • Quote: “Regarding the constitution making, he comparing the Indian constitution with Pakistan, did say that Religion has been enshrined in the constitution of Pakistan. In this context, discrimination can be pointed out. However, there is no religion of any kind in the Indian constitution.”
  • Quote: “Despite all this Prime Minister Modi and his Voices of religious disturbances continue to be raised during the time of BJP, although they are not at the government level, but the people of their party pass away from this kind of prejudice…”

6. Ashish Ray’s Recommendations for Improving Indo-Pak Relations:

  • Ray suggested a pragmatic approach, advocating for temporarily setting aside contentious issues like Kashmir and terrorism to focus on areas of mutual benefit and public welfare.
  • He specifically proposed:
  • Establishing trade relations.
  • Reviving cricket matches in both countries.
  • Encouraging exchanges between filmmakers and musicians.
  • Facilitating delegation visits for mutual learning.
  • He strongly advocated for the immediate restoration of High Commissioners by both countries.
  • He highlighted the difficulties faced by ordinary citizens in obtaining visas and urged leaders to prioritize their welfare, suggesting the lifting of visa bans for those over sixty.
  • Quote: “Mr. Ashish Ray said that I want the improvement of both India and Pakistan is that they can corner Kashmir and terrorism issues at least temporarily. Whatever other matters of public interest or welfare, bring them under discussion, establish trade relations, cricket is of great importance at this time in growing relationships.”
  • Quote: “On our question whether it is not mandatory that both countries improve diplomatic relations by restoring their High Commissioners. Mr. Ashish Ray said that there should be any delay in this regard. No need.”
  • Quote: “Leaders of both sides should think of the welfare of the common people and free them from the sorrows, visa ban should be lifted for those who are above sixty years.”

7. The Difficulty of Travel Between India and Pakistan:

  • Ashish Ray shared his personal experience of having to travel from Pakistan to India via Dubai due to the lack of direct air connectivity, highlighting the practical difficulties faced by citizens.
  • Quote: “Guess I have come to Pakistan from England and as an Indian citizen I can’t go to India by air from here I have to go to Dubai first and I will go to India from there.”

Conclusion:

The Iftar gathering organized by IPAC served as a platform for a candid discussion on the complex dynamics of Indo-Pak relations. While acknowledging the challenges, particularly the threat of terrorism, the participants emphasized the potential for improved ties in the context of evolving global realities. Ashish Ray’s insights and recommendations offered concrete steps towards fostering a more constructive bilateral relationship, focusing on people-to-people exchanges, trade, and addressing the practical difficulties faced by ordinary citizens. The event underscores the continued efforts of individuals and institutions like IPAC to bridge the divide and promote peace and connectivity between the two nations.

Frequently Asked Questions on Indo-Pak Relations and Regional Dynamics

1. What was the primary purpose of the Iftar dinner hosted by former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri?

The Iftar dinner was primarily organized by Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri’s Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC) in honor of Indian journalist and peace activist Ashish Ray. It served as a platform for discussion on improving relations between Pakistan and India, bringing together Pakistani journalists, intellectuals, and former diplomats.

2. What was Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri’s perspective on the current global and regional situation, particularly regarding Indo-Pak relations?

Kasuri highlighted the potential impact of changing global geopolitical realities, especially after President Trump’s victory, suggesting both opportunities and challenges for Indo-Pak relations. While acknowledging the threat of terrorism to both nations as a potential hindrance to diplomatic progress, he emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan and India to prioritize development and poverty reduction in their region, drawing a contrast with the progress made by China, Japan, and ASEAN countries.

3. What were the key points made by the Indian guest of honor, Ashish Ray, regarding the historical figures of Indian independence, Mahatma Gandhi and Subhash Chandra Bose?

Despite a personal affinity for Subhash Chandra Bose, Ashish Ray openly acknowledged the greatness and enduring ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, recognizing them as the architects of modern India. He differentiated their non-violent approach from Bose’s path.

4. How did Ashish Ray compare the constitutions of India and Pakistan?

Ashish Ray pointed out a key difference in the constitutional foundations of India and Pakistan. He noted that while religion is enshrined in the Pakistani constitution, potentially leading to discrimination, the Indian constitution is secular, with figures like Jawaharlal Nehru being an atheist and Mahatma Gandhi advocating for respect for all religions without dominance of one.

5. What was Ashish Ray’s response to concerns about religious disturbances and discriminatory attitudes in India under the current government?

Ashish Ray acknowledged the concerns about religious disturbances and prejudice raised during the time of the BJP, even if not directly at the government level. However, he advocated for a focus on self-improvement and raising one’s own standards rather than solely criticizing neighbors, urging both countries to look inward for fairness.

6. What were Ashish Ray’s recommendations to the Modi government regarding its dealings with Pakistan?

Ashish Ray suggested that the Indian and Pakistani governments should temporarily set aside contentious issues like Kashmir and terrorism to focus on areas of mutual public interest and welfare. He specifically recommended establishing trade relations, resuming cricket matches in both countries, and encouraging exchanges between filmmakers, musicians, and other delegations to foster understanding.

7. What was Ashish Ray’s stance on restoring High Commissioners and easing visa restrictions between India and Pakistan?

Ashish Ray strongly advocated for the immediate restoration of High Commissioners between India and Pakistan, emphasizing that there is no need for delay. He also highlighted the severe difficulties faced by ordinary citizens in obtaining visas and urged leaders to prioritize the welfare of the common people by lifting visa bans, particularly for those over sixty years of age. He shared a personal anecdote illustrating the cumbersome travel restrictions.

8. What overarching message did the discussions at the Iftar dinner convey regarding the future of Indo-Pak relations?

The discussions underscored the need for Pakistan and India to move beyond historical conflicts and focus on cooperation for regional development and the well-being of their citizens. While acknowledging existing challenges like terrorism and differing constitutional approaches, the emphasis was on exploring opportunities for dialogue, trade, cultural exchange, and easing restrictions to foster better understanding and peaceful coexistence.

Indo-Pak Relations: Dialogue, Challenges, and Paths Forward

The sources highlight several aspects of Indo-Pak relations, primarily through the lens of an Iftar dinner organized by former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri’s Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC). This event was held in honor of Indian journalist and peace activist Ashish Ray.

Efforts for Better Relations: Former External Affairs Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri is depicted as actively striving for better relations between Pakistan and India. He organizes programs that bring together prominent personalities to discuss this issue. The Iftar dinner itself served as such an occasion.

Key Themes and Concerns:

  • During the discussion, Kasuri Sahib reviewed the current situation of Indo-Pak relations.
  • He pointed out that changing global geopolitical realities following President Trump’s victory might present opportunities for improvement.
  • However, he cautioned that terrorism poses a threat to both countries and can undermine potential diplomatic progress. He even referenced a recent article by former Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran in this context.
  • Kasuri emphasized that the region is lagging behind other Asian nations like China, Japan, and ASEAN in development, stressing the need for both Pakistan and India to prioritize fighting poverty over conflict to alleviate public backwardness.

Ashish Ray’s Perspective:

  • Ashish Ray, as the special guest, participated in a detailed exchange of ideas on Indo-Pak relations.
  • He believes that for the improvement of relations, both India and Pakistan should temporarily put aside the Kashmir and terrorism issues.
  • Instead, he suggests focusing on other matters of public interest and welfare, establishing trade relations, and promoting cricket, film, and music exchanges, as well as delegation visits.
  • Ray strongly advocated for the restoration of High Commissioners without delay as a crucial step in improving diplomatic ties.
  • He also highlighted the difficulties faced by ordinary citizens of both countries in obtaining visas, citing his own experience of having to travel via Dubai to go from Pakistan to India. He argued for lifting visa bans, especially for those over sixty years old, and addressing the concerns of people seeking medical treatment.
  • When questioned about what message to give to the Modi government regarding dealing with Pakistan, Ray emphasized the need for improvement for both countries and suggested focusing on areas of mutual benefit.

Comparison of India and Pakistan:

  • During the discussions, a comparison was made between the constitutions of India and Pakistan. Ashish Ray noted that religion is enshrined in the Pakistani constitution, which could lead to discrimination, whereas the Indian constitution has no state religion.
  • He mentioned that while Mahatma Gandhi advocated for respect for all religions, and Jawaharlal Nehru was an atheist, the ideals of modern India are built on these foundations. However, he acknowledged that voices of religious disturbance and discriminatory attitudes exist in India, particularly from unofficial organizations associated with the BJP.
  • Ray argued for both countries to focus on raising their own standards rather than merely criticizing each other.

In summary, the sources depict a strong desire for improved Indo-Pak relations, with a focus on dialogue, addressing shared challenges like terrorism and poverty, and promoting people-to-people contact. Ashish Ray’s perspective emphasizes a pragmatic approach of temporarily setting aside contentious issues to build trust and cooperation in other areas, alongside crucial diplomatic steps like restoring High Commissioners and easing visa restrictions for ordinary citizens.

IPAC: Fostering Indo-Pak Relations Through Dialogue

Drawing on the sources, the Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC) is an organization founded and organized by former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri. Kasuri Sahib also serves as the Chairman of IPAC.

The primary goal of IPAC is to strive for better relations between Pakistan and India. To achieve this, the institute arranges programs that bring together prominent personalities to discuss Indo-Pak relations.

One such program highlighted in the sources is an Iftar dinner organized by IPAC. This particular Iftar was held in honor of Ashish Ray, an Indian journalist and peace activist. The event provided a platform for discussions on Indo-Pak relations, including a review of the current situation and potential avenues for improvement.

During the Iftar dinner organized by IPAC, Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri:

  • Reviewed the current state of Indo-Pak relations.
  • Discussed how changing global geopolitical realities might offer opportunities for improvement.
  • Warned that terrorism poses a threat to both countries and can hinder diplomatic progress.
  • Emphasized the need for both Pakistan and India to prioritize fighting poverty over conflict to foster development in the region, noting that the region is lagging behind other Asian nations.

The Iftar event organized by IPAC also included speeches from guests and a question-and-answer session, indicating that the institute facilitates dialogue and exchange of ideas on Indo-Pak issues. The presence of figures like Syed Yawar Ali, Dr. Moeed, Yousuf, former ambassador Shahid Malik, Iqbal Ahmad Khan, and Abdul Razzaq Dawood at the Iftar suggests that IPAC engages a diverse group of influential individuals in its efforts to promote peace and connectivity between India and Pakistan.

In summary, the Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC), founded and chaired by Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri, serves as a platform for dialogue and the organization of events like the Iftar dinner to foster understanding and improve relations between Pakistan and India by bringing together prominent individuals to discuss relevant issues.

Ashish Ray on India-Pakistan Relations

Drawing on the sources, Ashish Ray is an Indian journalist, author, and analyst, who also holds the identity of a Pak India Peace Activist. He is described as a friend of former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri and was the special guest of honor at an Iftar dinner organized by Kasuri’s Institute of Peace and Connectivity (IPAC). This Iftar dinner was held in his honor.

During his visit, Ashish Ray had a detailed exchange of ideas and an interview. He is also identified as the Bureau Chief of CNN South Asia.

Despite having an affiliation or affinity with Subhash Chandra Bose, Ashish Ray spoke openly about the greatness and protection of Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s ideals, recognizing them as the architects of modern India.

Regarding Indo-Pak relations, Ashish Ray believes that for improvement, both India and Pakistan should temporarily put aside the Kashmir and terrorism issues. Instead, he suggests focusing on other matters of public interest or welfare, establishing trade relations, and promoting cricket, film, and music exchanges, as well as delegation visits. He strongly advocated for the restoration of High Commissioners without any delay as a crucial step in improving diplomatic ties.

Ashish Ray also highlighted the difficulties faced by ordinary citizens of both countries in obtaining visas, sharing his own experience of having to travel from Pakistan to India via Dubai. He argued for lifting visa bans, especially for those over sixty years old, and addressing the concerns of people seeking medical treatment.

When questioned about what message to give the Modi government regarding dealing with Pakistan, Mr. Ashish Ray said that he desires the improvement of both India and Pakistan and suggested that they should focus on areas of mutual benefit while temporarily setting aside Kashmir and terrorism.

In comparing the Indian and Pakistani constitutions, Ashish Ray noted that religion is enshrined in the constitution of Pakistan, which could lead to discrimination, whereas the Indian constitution has no state religion. While acknowledging the foundational ideals of modern India based on the principles of respecting all religions (Mahatma Gandhi) and secularism (Jawaharlal Nehru), he also noted that voices of religious disturbance and discriminatory attitudes exist in India, particularly from unofficial organizations associated with the BJP. However, he argued that both countries should focus on raising their own standards rather than merely criticizing each other.

Indo-Pak Relations: Geopolitical Shifts and Development Imperatives

The sources discuss geopolitical realities in the context of Indo-Pak relations. Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri noted that the changing global geopolitical realities following President Trump’s victory in America have created a situation where there is a “tremor or a storm” affecting both friends and adversaries of America, suggesting that the world order is in flux.

Kasuri Sahib believes that these changing geopolitical realities may provide opportunities for improvement in relations between Pakistan and India. However, he cautioned that terrorism remains a significant threat to both countries and could undermine any potential diplomatic progress in this new global environment.

Furthermore, Kasuri Sahib pointed out that the South Asian region, encompassing Pakistan and India, is lagging behind other Asian nations like China, Japan, and the ASEAN countries in terms of development. He emphasized that in light of these global and regional realities, it is imperative for both Pakistan and India to prioritize fighting poverty over engaging in conflict to address the backwardness of their populations.

Therefore, the sources suggest that the current geopolitical landscape, marked by significant shifts, presents both potential avenues for improving Indo-Pak relations and persistent challenges like terrorism that need to be addressed for any progress to be sustainable. The regional geopolitical reality of lagging development further underscores the urgency for cooperation over conflict.

Terrorism: Hindrance to India-Pakistan Relations

The sources indicate that terrorism poses a significant threat to both Pakistan and India and can impede progress in their diplomatic relations. Former Foreign Minister Mian Khursheed Mehmood Kasuri explicitly warned that terrorism is a threat to both countries and can negatively impact potential diplomatic advancements. He even referenced a recent article by former Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran in this context. This suggests that the threat of terrorism is a recognized and serious concern for those involved in trying to improve Indo-Pakistani ties.

Furthermore, Ashish Ray, the Indian journalist and peace activist, suggested a pragmatic approach to the issue of terrorism in the context of improving Indo-Pak relations. He believes that for relations to improve, both India and Pakistan should temporarily set aside the Kashmir and terrorism issues. His rationale is to first focus on other matters of public interest and welfare, such as trade relations and cultural exchanges, to build trust and cooperation. By suggesting that terrorism be temporarily set aside, Ray implicitly acknowledges it as a major point of contention that could obstruct progress on other fronts.

In summary, the sources highlight that terrorism is viewed as a real and present danger to both India and Pakistan, capable of undermining efforts to improve their relationship. One perspective, as expressed by Ashish Ray, suggests temporarily deprioritizing this contentious issue to build a foundation of cooperation in other areas.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog


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