US Expresses Support for India-Pakistan Talks

 

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Pakistan's Proposal for "Conditional" Talks with India 

A day after Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif proposed "conditional" talks with India, sooner the United States declared its endorsement of direct dialogue between the nuclear-armed South Asian neighbors. 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his willingness to resume bilateral discussions with India, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the archrivals.

Tensions Over Kashmir Issue 

The strained relationship between Pakistan and India dates back to 2019 when India revoked the special status of Indian-administered Kashmir, leading Pakistan to downgrade diplomatic ties with its neighbor. 

The disputed Himalayan region, claimed by both countries, has been a major point of contention, with two of their three wars fought over the territory. 

Pakistan's Call for Dialogue 

In an attempt to foster reconciliation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of dialogue. 

He stated, "We are prepared to talk with everyone, even with our neighbor, provided that the neighbor is serious to talk about serious matters on the table because war is no more an option." 

In addition, Pakistan seeks meaningful engagement to address outstanding and critical issues between the two countries and desirous to promote regional stability.

US Support for Direct Indo-Pak Talks 

The US Department of State spokesperson, Matthew Miller, reiterated America's longstanding position in favor of direct dialogue between India and Pakistan. 

He stated, "As we have long said, we support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan on the issues of concern. That has long been our position." 

The US encourages both nations to engage in open and sincere discussions to find common ground. 

Differing Perspectives on Kashmir Conflict 

India accuses Pakistan of backing a decades-old armed rebellion in Indian-administered Kashmir, a claim that was always vehemently denied by Pakistan. 

Pakistan reiterates that its support is solely diplomatic, aimed at enabling the region's struggle for self-determination. 

The ongoing tensions escalated when India's government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, revoked the partial autonomy of Indian-administered Kashmir in August, 2019.

Looking Towards a Peaceful Future 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged both countries to prioritize the wellbeing of their people and break the cycle of animosity. 

He emphasized, "We have to adopt, or to have an economic competition because God forbid if there is a nuclear flashpoint. Who will live to tell what happened? So that is not an option at all." 

Pakistan advocates for economic cooperation and stability, emphasizing the devastating consequences of any escalation. 

The Challenge of Dialogue 

While Pakistan's overtures towards India have been welcomed by the US and others, former foreign secretary Aizaz Chaudhry expressed skepticism regarding the prospects of immediate breakthroughs. 

He stressed the need for both nations to be on the "same page" regarding the holding of talks on contentious issues. 

Chaudhry also noted that dialogue requires the "cooperation of both parties", and any progress depends on India's willingness to engage in the process.

The Road Ahead 

Despite the challenges ahead, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's persistence in seeking dialogue signifies Pakistan's commitment to peaceful coexistence with India. 

The US's support for direct talks adds weight to the efforts to find a resolution to longstanding issues.

As the region watches closely, it remains to be seen if the two nuclear-armed neighbors can overcome their differences and embark on a path towards lasting peace.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)