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India and Pakistan, the world's most culturally and historically identical states, are back at the negotiating table. Terrorism, water, and of course, Kashmir- the beautiful, resource filled northern Indian state that has been locked in bloody conflict for decades, are on the agenda.
On February 25, Foreign Ministers Nirupama Rao from India and Salman Bashir from Pakistan met in New Delhi for an informal, non-binding, open dialogue. This is a milestone for the two arch enemies.
After decades of hot and cold interactions, the recent freeze in all dialogue between the two nuclear powers has given the world a reason to worry. India rescinded from all "composite talks," a term quoted in news sources but never clearly defined, after the Mumbai terrorist attacks last November. The term "composite," means addressing a combination of elements to create a holistic approach. In this case, I assume the definition of "composite talks," suggests a road map, or a step by step playbook addressing all tension filled subjects between the two South Asian foes.
"We have set out to take a first step toward rebuilding trust," said Ms. Rao, "and I believe my meeting with the Pakistan foreign secretary has constituted that first step. We have agreed to remain in touch."
Rao believes it is a bit premature to declare bilateral dialogue, but agrees the door is open for future communication. The 4-hour conversation in New Delhi with India and Pakistan's Foreign Minister's ended without a joint statement or a date set for future conversations.
Regardless, the discussions are a solid step in the right direction. After 15 months of a diplomatic freeze reminiscent of the Cold War, discussions, albeit informal and inconclusive, are promising. A nuclear and angry South Asia is a global security threat, and the world can let out a sigh of relief when these identical yet warring twins reconcile their differences and embrace their similarities.
The key to fostering a healthy relationship and a brighter future in the region is to celebrate the state's similarities. The U.S. should take a stronger position in encouraging future discussions between the two countries. Secretary of State Clinton has said, "With respect to India and Pakistan, we have encouraged the resumption of direct talks which were suspended when President Pervez Musharraf left office." Clinton refers to the positive steps made towards bilateral dialogue by Pakistan's previous administration.
The Obama Administration needs to do more than "encourage." A nuclear South Asia is a threat to national and global security. With Pakistan's troops on the Indian border, less time, energy and human capital are being utilized to prevent the Taliban insurgents from crossing and recruiting on Pakistan/Afghanistan border.
India is striving to portray itself as a savior for Afghanistan, addressing the humanitarian effects of the war by providing aid and food. Could this be an overt challenge by juxtaposing itself as a humanitarian state while accusing Pakistan as the "breeding grounds for terrorists?" Is this an attempt to garner goodwill from the international community? Perhaps, but Pakistan is also vying for international sympathy by bringing the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 back on the agenda and subtly claiming India is "stealing" more than their fair share from the treaty. In addition, as Foreign Minister Bashir claims, "Pakistan is ready to play its role for regional peace."
Public, international, and yes, even celebrity pressure are key elements in bringing peace to the divided countries. Celebrities from Bollywood, many Pakistani immigrants themselves or with close ties and family living acraoss the border, should be used as a resource to encourage domestic public support for bilateral dialogue. International superstar Shah Rukh Khan has called for cooperation between the Pakistani and Indian cricket team, only to be pummeled with criticism, scorn, and boycotts. However, if many high-profile voices joined the debate, the domestic publics can be influenced by their beloved superstars.
Water, terrorism, Kashmir - the answers are not simple, but the means to address these them should be considered. While the February 25 talks were by no means conclusive, they are a good indication that the leaders in both countries are finally ready to play ball.
http://blogs.uscannenberg.org/neontommy/2010/03/a-thaw-in-south-asia.html
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