The Hindu Editorial Vocabulary– Jan 25, 2022; Day 395

A chance for peace: On Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s offer

India should engage Pakistan if it comes forward to normalise relations

On the eternally (For a limitless time) rough road of India-Pakistan ties, any offer of talks, like the one made by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last week, is cause for equal measure of excitement and cynicism (A cynical feeling of distrust). His words, in an interview to a United Arab Emirates (UAE) channel, that Pakistan “had learnt a lesson from three wars” with India and wants to “live in peace with India provided we are able to resolve our genuine problems” including “burning points like Kashmir” were seen in New Delhi more as him clutching at straws (be in such a desperate situation as to resort to even the most unlikely means of salvation), at a time when his country is in turmoil (A violent disturbance). Politically, Mr. Sharif has to face elections later this year, and continues to be challenged by the opposition led by former leader Imran Khan. Economically, Pakistan is in imminent (Close in time; about to occur) danger of a debt default, and is being held together by assurances of support from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and China, as well as hopes that its IMF bailout package will come through (Attain success or reach a desired goal) with the adoption of more austerity (The trait of great self-denial (especially refraining from worldly pleasures)) measures. Pakistan also faces a growing terror threat from its Afghan border, where despite having a friendly regime in control, there are clashes particularly with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan fighters. Even so, Mr. Sharif’s peaceable words, coming a month after a crossing of swords (If you cross swords with someone, you disagree with them and argue with them about something) at the United Nations, indicate that there is an understanding that India is not responsible for Pakistan’s current state of affairs, and an engagement of some sort would benefit the government there. The Ministry of External Affairs response, that India wants “normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan” provided there is a conducive (Tending to bring about; being partly responsible for) atmosphere devoid (Completely wanting or lacking) of “terrorism, hostility or violence” suggests that Delhi continues to hold its position, but does not wish to snub (Refuse to acknowledge) Mr. Sharif’s offer either.

There is more to the timing of Mr. Sharif’s words; as India prepares to host the  Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit this summer, invitations are going out to ensure participation by Pakistan for the major meetings, and a more cordial (Politely warm and friendly) relationship will ensure a smoother ride. India’s G-20 presidency, and its desire to promote the concerns of the Global South amidst the Ukraine war, would also benefit from peace in the neighbourhood. It remains to be seen whether Mr. Sharif’s words were only made for effect, or with a genuine desire to push for talks. If they are indeed followed up by Islamabad, either through the acceptance of the SCO invite, or with a proposal to restore mission strengths in both capitals that have not had Ambassadors since 2019, it is hoped New Delhi would reciprocate (Act, feel, or give mutually or in return). At a time when the government is advising Russia and Ukraine for “dialogue and diplomacy” and is seeking to engage the Taliban out of “pragmatism”, it would seem contradictory to refuse such a chance for enhancing regional stability, especially during a year when India’s role as a statesman is being highlighted.

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