Treat Pak-India trade separately

Since the democratic government came into power in Pakistan, the urge for normalising relations with India has gained momentum. By putting aside core issues such as the Kashmir dispute, Siachen and Sir Creek, a desire is expressed on both sides to work for the betterment of the poverty-stricken people in either country by strengthening trade relations. Indeed, experts agree that there is much comparative advantage for trade between the two countries, which can bring economic well-being and thaw icy relations. But unfortunately, trade between India and Pakistan has always been a casualty of all strategic and territorial standoffs — regardless of how grave or mild the disagreements might be.

In such circumstances, a mere ‘desire’ to normalise relations will do little to ensure normality in the relationship between India and Pakistan. All confidence-building and conflict resolution variables need to be studied and addressed.

An increase in the volume of trade between the two countries needs tireless efforts, especially from the Indian side, as New Delhi has always, quite readily, blamed Islamabad for several confidence-shattering incidents – regardless of how much proof was available  – owing to which relations between the two countries, as well as trade pursuits, have suffered most gravely.

To increase mutual trade would be constructive for the people of India and Pakistan but, without a comprehensive policy, which ensures that efforts in that direction are not scuttled every now and then, such a policy will be useless. Moreover, a comprehensive trade policy, which focuses on smooth trade and trade-related communication, is essential; a policy which keeps trade separate from other facets of Pak-India relations.

A few days ago, when Pakistan opened Wagah border to resume economic activities, bus and truck services between the two countries were suspended due to the arrest of a Pakistani truck driver, Muhammad Shafiq, on Indian charges of alleged drug smuggling. This incident caused the suspension of trade and travelling between the two countries once again.

After a round of meetings, both agreed to resume bus service but traders are still demanding the release of the driver detained in India. Such unpleasant incidents can happen in the future as well, unless a comprehensive and independent trade policy is crafted.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 12^th, 2014.