Earlier this month, Imran Khan, in a letter written to felicitate Modi on assuming the office of prime minister for a second term, had reiterated Pakistan’s offer to hold talks to resolve contentious issues, including the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir and terrorism, to restore peace in the region and to work towards resolving the problems confronting the people of the two countries. Foreign Minister Qureshi also had sent a letter to Jaishankar congratulating him on assuming office. In their replies, Modi and Jaishankar wrote about comprehensive and fresh talks between India and Pakistan, expressing India’s desire “for normal and cooperative relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan,” saying “it [India] has always preferred peace and progress of the people.” According to a statement by the Indian External Affairs Ministry, Modi said, “It is important to build an environment of trust, free of terror, violence and hostility.” FM Jaishankar also stressed the need for “an atmosphere free from the shadow of terror and violence.” The sentiments from Pakistan “were also appreciated in the letters.”
Predictions that there would be a thaw in Indo-Pak relations after the Indian elections are coming true. Modi had his electoral compulsions that prevented him from announcing peace gestures towards Pakistan. Now positive signals are emanating from Delhi. A significant omission from the letters from Delhi is the core issue of India-occupied Kashmir. This should not be taken as India’s refusal to resolve the issue. The revival of dialogue might move gradually towards resolution of all outstanding issues. We have moved from a hot February to a cool June. If there is ‘ice’ in June, there would be roses in December.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 21st, 2019.
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