ISLAMABAD: Sanober Institute organized a discussion titled “Pakistan-India Relations: The Estranged Neighbors” as part of its Neighborhood Series.
The distinguished panel included Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Chairman of Sanober Institute, Ambassador Shahid Malik, Former High Commissioner to India, Professor Dr. Mujeeb Afzal from the School of Politics and International Relations (SPIR) at Quaid e Azam University (QAU), Mateen Haider, Anchor and Diplomatic Analyst, and Dr. Qamar Cheema, Executive Director of Sanober Institute.
During the discussion, panelists stressed that achievable initiatives, such as people-to-people contacts, climate change cooperation, and bilateral trade, should be prioritized to rebuild the strained relations between India and Pakistan. The significance of starting with feasible goals and the need for internal coherence through timely elections and economic improvement was highlighted.
The panelists believe that addressing the Kashmir issue is crucial, emphasizing concerns about potential demographic shifts in Indian-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and proposing solutions like redefining narratives and granting autonomy to regions like Gilgit-Baltistan.
Discussants believed India’s growing role in countering China has exhibited arrogance in its regional interactions, necessitating recognizing the importance of peaceful coexistence.
Expressing concerns about potential false flags before elections, panelists drew parallels with the Balakot strike, underscoring the need for preparedness. The changing global dynamics favoring India and its perceived arrogance were discussed, with a consensus among the panelists that internal stability is paramount for Pakistan’s regional standing.
The discussion provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic strategies and internal development for fostering regional stability.
