Mar 99

How do you view the Pakistan-India summit recently held in Lahore?

1. The Lahore summit is a very positive step towards making peace in the Indo-Pak subcontinent. It is important for us Pakistanis to stop taunting each other of our regional nationalities and become true Pakistanis, only then we will be able to accomplish our goal, which was set forth by the great Quaid. I felt the necessity to reply to brother Nadeem who sounds a little annoyed about who his forefathers were! And my other fellow Pakistani Mr. Tanvir who termed People of Karachi an ‘enemy within’! And Mr. Azhar who sounds very disheartened. Mr. Nadeem’s comments are quite interesting because I have lived in Lahore where most of the people who migrated from India after 1947 were not labelled Mohajirs (keeping in mind that being a Mohajir is a Sunnat) but were called other derogatory names which I would not mention.
   Mr. Tanvir’s comments are straightforward; he claims that since Mohajirs did not live within the boundaries of what is now Pakistan, they are enemies of the country! What he disregards is that Pakistan is an ideological state which was achieved for all the Muslims of Southeast Asia and not for the four provinces. Mr. Azhar is very eloquent in expressing his anger at every other nation living in the country and holds them responsible for everything and anything that happened to him in his career. He should not hate the people but should denounce the spoon-fed propaganda, which is pushed down the throats of the people. I being a committed Pakistani would pray for the safety and integrity of our great country.
   
   Syed Hussain
   USA
   
   
   
2. As an Indian, I think this is one of the best things that could happen. I must say that I was horrified to see some of the negative remarks made by both Indians and Pakistanis in this column. I realise that there are people with positive and negative outlooks in both countries. Countries like Pakistan and India, that obviously have so many resources and the potential, should work with each other not against, for mutual benefit. The common man in India has the same problems of poverty, illiteracy etc. as the common man in Pakistan. It is time something was done to make things better for both. As a member of today's generation , I do not share the bitterness of the past. I was born and have lived in India for three quarters of my life- and I am glad to say that there are many, many Indians who feel the same way as I do. From my point of view, it would be wonderful if people on both sides stopped condemning each other, and tried helping each other for a change! All the best to Nawaz Sharif and Atal Behari Vajpayee.
   
   Parul
   UK
   
   
   
3. Both have started becoming wiser.
   
   Amjad Khan
   Canada
   
   
   
4. Although it looks quite difficult that these two countries will co-operate. But I think it is one of the bold steps taken by both prime ministers. I would like to suggest one thing that before reconciliation India must stop its brutalities in Kashmir as it shows their wrong intentions. On the one hand they are talking about good relations with Pakistan while on the other they are disregarding the feelings of Pakistanis, as Pakistanis have very deep roots in Kashmir. If India stops the killing in Kashmir the talks should then continue, otherwise no use. Don't you think so?
   
   Abid Hassan Hashmi
   Japan
   
   
   
5. First of all Pakistanis should give up their attitude of hatred and eternity, and stop sponsoring terrorism in India, because India is not Afghanistan, where you can send your Taliban students and conquer it. Second, as long as Pakistan is a hypocrite Islamic country, it will never be able to think fairly. Pakistan has to be a secular nation with a secular constitution to understand India's problem. India has a greater Muslim population than Pakistan. Muslims are living very peacefully with their Hindu and Sikh brothers. As India is a secular nation, Muslims in India have fair constitutional rights, while in Pakistan, Islam is everything. If you are not a Muslim, you have no right to exist in Pakistan. And that's why there is a big difference between open minded India and narrow minded Pakistan. The third thing is, what is Pakistan? A part of India. Always remember, that we Pakistanis were first part of Indians and then of Islamic Pakistanis. If Pakistanis understand these things, then they will not cry for Kashmir or paint India as its enemy.
   
   Hemang Dave
   India
   
   
   
6. It will be good for both countries to have peace and devote the resources to development work. All the folks who are looking for another round of war are living in dream world. There are people on both sides of the fences who are itching for this. Think of the destruction that a war will bring to the region; can you really afford to be an enemy forever?
   
   Prem
   USA
   
   
   
7. I think it was the improvement in Pakistan's defence system especially in the field of missile technology, the successful experiment of Ghauri missile and the nuclear tests which made Indian Prime minister Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee ease the tensions between two countries by the help of a diplomatic dialogue. Had Pakistan not conducted the nuclear tests, the Indian prime minister would never have decided to come to Pakistan.
   
   Mohammad Irfan
   Hong Kong
   
   
   
8. It is high time that both countries realised the importance of bilateral dialogue. Pakistan has only one point agenda i.e Kashmir. Pakistan and India should come out of this blackout and seriously think of their people’s interests. If both leaders succeed, which is possible, it will be a history to remember.
   
   Surinder
   Kuwait
   
   
   
9. This summit of course is a positive step towards some achievement that we’ve been expecting. I think the biggest difference we both nations have is very fundamental. Ignoring that, if we can make some progress in developing mutual trust and paving the way for better trade, then we are certainly making progress in fighting our common enemy, "poverty". We both
   nations have to act strongly for this first. Consider first step first.
   
   Nihal Abdul Rab
   UAE
   
   
   
10. I believe Mian Saheb, as a veteran businessman and now a seasoned politician, has played his cards well, however we all need to be well aware of the Hindu mentality. There is a famous Bunya's saying, "what's mine is mine, what's yours is negotiable". I believe Mian Saheb as a true Pakistani with a high sense of nationalistic approach will handle it in a befitting manner.
    
    S.Saeed.
    Canada
    
    
    
11. The Indians, especially the Hindus, should never be trusted. I think it was a good time for Nawaz Saheb to discuss his "business"- he can do anything to make Uncle Sam happy......even betray the people of his country. Holding of Jamaat's workers is a good example he has set, a Muslim country or an Islamic republic has its own Muslim scholars in its jails.
    
    Harris Farman Ali
    Brunei Darussalam
    
    
    
12. It is really a right step in the right direction; problems only can be solved through mutual understanding and by meeting face to face. I think this is a brave step taken by our government and it will pay in the long run; tension will ease and one day we will see that even the Kashmir matter is resolved in our favour. We should have more of such meetings.
    
    Abubakar A. Memon
    Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
    
    
    
13. I think this is a good start for both nations, after a hostility period of half a century. Politicians from both sides are not very sincere towards the peace process, and in return, the whole nation has to pay for it. Pakistan and India are two realities, which both the nations knows very well and understand the fact; one whole generation has been born and raised, but we are still there on square one where we had started on August 14, 1947. I dint think we are following what the Quran has ordained. I pray from the bottom of my heart for the success of this summit for both countries. God bless all of them, and God bless Pakistan.
    
    Naushad Alwani
    Florida
    
    
    
14. I think it was really a great step to come close ignoring the previous mistakes. These both countries can save their economies, not by military strength but by shaking hands.
    
    Faisal Mukhtar
    Germany
    
    
    
15. We really appreciate and support the Pakistan-India summit for having friendly relations with our neighbour India. We are very disappointed by the leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami, which is totally un-Islamic and inhuman. We should listen to our rival's thoughts, what they have to say about us. We should show them our hospitality and make them understand us, as a Islamic nation. Islam doesn’t teach us to throw stones at our neighbour's envoy. I think that Mr. Qazi Hussain Ahmed needs more schooling and if there are available funds, he should be sent to Jamia Al Azhar for rehabilitation, which is necessary, because he is misleading the hearts of innocent people by his leadership and laying down the morals of the Pakistani community all over the world. We urge and support Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to build a golden bridge of friendship which is in favour of both countries. Pakistan Zindabad.
    
    Humaira
    USA
    
    
    
16. I truly think this is a great opportunity to mend all the differences between each other, although I feel this conference is just another plot to make the people feel that the problem is being addressed. The greatest tragedy is that Pakistan has not developed to its full extent, considering that we as a people are smart and hardworking. We should address the problem of our cruel rich families that monopolise all the wealth and leave nothing for the rest and their tactics in electing officials that are on their payroll! What a diversion this has been as we vent our anger against the Indians whilst the richest in Pakistan loot us blindly.
    
    Zameer Asif
    USA
    
    
    
17. We cannot trust any non-Muslim, as Quran says, but being part of this world and to adopt the ways of the Prophet and his followers, there is no harm in dealing and sharing with non-Muslims as long as we can keep our heads high and always remember the motive for which we have been created. I personally feel that dialogue is a lot better than war unless you are totally cornered. I would give Indians one last chance to settle things on the table.
    
    Nasim Malik
    Scotland
    
    
    
18. I think the recent developments between India and Pakistan may just be what we had been waiting for. It was a pleasure to see the warmth with which the Indian prime-minister was received in Pakistan. Hopefully the tension between the two nations will ease with efforts being made by both sides. Indeed it is a pity that it has taken fifty long years for this to happen. Countries like Pakistan and India have great resources and potential- and they should be used wisely. Our people are poor, the standard of living is low, there is suffering everywhere. We should try to solve these common problems by helping each other. Progress and prosperity can be achieved only with mutual cooperation. Look at Europe- a continent that has been ravaged by two of the worst wars in this century alone- the World wars. In spite of that, they have patched up their differences and have done their best for themselves. They did not spend time and money fighting- as a result they have prospered. We should do the same, anti-Pakistan forces in India should be dealt with severely and anti-India forces in Pakistan should also be quelled. Let us look forward to a millenium in which we can live together in peace.
    
    Chandini
    Delhi
    
    
    
19. The international community and the people of India and Pakistan should welcome any move towards peaceful mediation. The gravity of this issue is alarming and it is absolutely necessary for the leaders along with the UN to encourage as much dialogue as possible to prevent any more tests or threats of testing of nuclear weapons. Although India is a signatory to the CTBT (1998) it fails to honour its commitment in this regard. In that same manner, Pakistan and India both fail to comply with the spirit of the Non-Aligned movement and the principles of the United Nations as listed in the charter which is to work for the "attainment of general and complete disarmament under effective international control" (from www.nonaligned.org). However, it appears that discussions like that which was held in Lahore provide one of the only mechanisms towards peace which are feasible. I encourage the people of the globe to support the leaders of India and Pakistan in this endeavour.
    
    Margot N. Lee
    USA
    
    
    
20. If both countries can get the common man out of his miserable economic situation, then they have to put aside the policy of hate. If we didn't solve our problem peacefully today then history would solve our problem by the destruction of both countries economically. We cannot spend 50% or more of the budget on defence. I think we have lost track, our biggest enemy is poverty and illiteracy -not India
    
    Zahir A. Momin
    USA
    
    
    
21. This is a reply to Azhar from the so-called USA.
    Stop saying so-called Pakistanis. It is you people who have started this Mohajir thing. My parents also migrated from India in 1947; they started living in the Punjab province; no one has ever called me/us Mohajirs because we never said that we are Mohajirs. No one has in this form pointed you as Mohajir but you replied, as you are so-called Mohajir not a Pakistani. So it is a problem with you!
    
    Nadeem
    Netherlands
    
    
    
22. I think that talk is a good start for both nations but only if both leaders first think of the real problem between two countries. That is the Kashmir problem. I urge both countries to pull out army from Kashmir and make it a free and independent country and establish good relations with it. I hope they will think about that. Then you don’t need up to 50% your country’s budget for defence and that money could be spent on education, health, clean water provision, and developmental work.
    
    Tanveer Ahmed Choudhry
    Finland
    
    
    
23. Guys grow up; it's time we co-operated with each other and started working for the betterment of the people. The summit is the first step in this direction.
    
    Kamran Nazir
    USA
    
    
    
24. Yes, it is the right step taken by both governments to understand each other and realise that war has not given anything to them. But the past experience shows that whenever the Pak-India held such official talks, India gained the benefits not Pakistan. India and Pakistan should decide the future of both Kashmir through "free plebiscite" under the auspices of the UN forces and by so doing they will decide their own future. I am against any exchange of trade agreement between Pakistan and India. I am sure that Pakistan would be good "cheaper Mandi" for India, and Pakistani traders will have to lose everything in return.
    
    Mahmood Hasan
    USA
    
    
    
25. It's a golden opportunity for the Southeast Asians to secure their future as well as the future of the region.
    
    Dr. Aziz-ur-Rehman
    Pakistan
    
    
    
26. Sheer wastage of time! History and experience suggest that it will never work. It's kind of making kids believe what is untrue. It is a farce that does not please the audience. A hoax, a show, a drama and mostly on the Indian part.
    
    Mohammad Akram
    Malaysia
    
    
    
27. In my view it is a positive step if it is. Our leaders are not sincere with their nations. India and Pakistan have more common matters and interests than differences. We can develop our relations on common interests. Every problem can be solved with negotiations. Both countries can't settle the Kashmir problem by going to war.
    
    Noman Sharif
    Canada
    
    
    
28. We can never trust Indians, especially Hindus.
    
    Nadeem Sheikh
    Saudi Arabia
    
    
    
29. You think it was a summit? I don't think so. A businessman Mian Sahib wants to sell his sugar in India and the meeting was due to the pressure from Uncle Sam, that's it. The issue of Kashmir as for now seems insoluble.
    
    Ashfaq Ahmed
    USA
    
    
    
30. I view it as a Muslim country giving up its sovereignty to the non-Islamic. The reality is that the political agenda of successive regimes seems a non-Islamic pursuit of some benefit. We will fall flat on our faces just like the Arab states. I think it is an expensive learning experience that we are going through.
    
    Rizwan Hussain
    United Kingdom
    
    
    
31. I think this summit is just another political game. Relations with Pakistan can never be improved unless Pakistan stops killing in Kashmir.
    
    Vish
    USA.
    
    
    
32. I was delighted at the Indian prime minister's visit to Lahore. It broke the ice! Hopefully this will lead to useful bilateral talks. The world has dramatically changed in fifty years; it's time Pakistani and Indian leaders looked at the plight of their people. Their topmost priority should be to eradicate poverty, educate their people, have more hospitals and put the genie of atomic bomb back in the bottle. Peace is what the subcontinent needs at all costs. We need to divert our resources to the betterment of people. Let's resolve that there will be no more wars between India and Pakistan. There are more things that unite us.
    
    Muhammad Zakaria Virk
    Canada
    
    
    
33. Reply to Kamran Chaudhry from the so-called Pakistan:
    Thanks for your attempt to give me another identity that is: Karachiites in addition to Mohajir, which I received in my college life. If someone still remembers the hard work of Allama Iqbal, then he should recall one important verse of one of his poems: Muslim hein hum watan hay sarah jahan hamara. Therefore, if someone wants Pan-Islamism then he/she should start thinking as a human first (if he/she came in this world from Adam & Eve) and follow the rules of Islam in his life followed by the spread of Islam's message with love and generosity, not with power or hate. We should not isolate our mind by cultural or geographical boundaries; if we confine ourselves to such boundaries, then we will lose the identity as a Muslim and the duty to spread the message of Islam with love and peace.
    Finally my understanding of this Lahore Summit is unchanged from my previous comments. The true Pakistanis should focus to improve their credibility by improving understanding, harmony and peace among themselves. The true Indians should also think that by improving relations with Pakistan they can boost trade not only with Pakistan but also with most of the central Asia, as true Pakistan (not the so-called Pakistan) will provide a very safe, easy and fast route to them. This good relation and trade, if India and Pakistan adopt will change the financial status of both countries very easily. About the Kashmir issue, I suggest that we start thinking, as a Muslim, for the benefits of Muslims in Kashmir and not for that population that think only as a Kashmiri.
    
    Azhar
    USA
    
    
    
34. I was once with the Pakistan Air Force, and am now a student in the USA. In my college we have many Indian students; I can always feel and smell the hate and utter dislike these Indians have for us as a nation. And I am also proud to hate them as a nation. The two-nation theory was definitely not a fool’s idea. Do we still have any doubts about their intentions? Why did they explode those nukes and for whom? Who has attacked Pakistan three times since Independence? A snake is a snake no matter how nice it may look.
    
    Fawad Ali
    USA
    
    
35. May I offer some perspective from an outsider's point of view, as I seem to be the only respondent of non-Pakistani or Indian origin. Let me start by saying that I have worked in both countries, and lived off and on in Pakistan for seven years beginning in 1985. Apart from religion, there are more cultural similarities than differences between most Pakistanis and Indians, rooted in 5,000 years of complex history. This probably makes reconciliation more difficult, in light of the events immediately following partition, than it was for say the U.S. and Japan to reconcile after World War II, where the historical ties were not so deep. This seems to be the case in other "old enmities" of a regional scale: Turks versus Armenians, Kosovars vs. Serbs etc. The old wounds are deeper, especially when within family. One thing is certain, however: if the economic gap with the developed world is to be narrowed, both Pakistan and India must reduce their military expenditures and develop the proper infrastructure and commercial environments to prosper in the technology era we are entering. Blame for the terrible events in the early hours of partition can be laid on the hastily departing British, but that is history which can not be changed, and the choice is now yours.
    
    John SanFilipo
    USA
    
    
    
36. Due to the democratic nature of this forum, we have seen many a different view on the recent Indo-Pak talks, as much as the open desire towards normalisation of relations came out strongly and honestly, it was also openly criticised and condemned. Besides all the conspiracy theories and delusions of paranoia and persecution and most of all false grandeur, I was quite appalled at a segment of open speech by some well-travelled Chaudhry Sahib (Kamran) from Pakistan.
    I believe this one person's paranoia and mistrust basically projects the ailment that prevails amongst the many that comprise the so-called Umma. The nation has lost the concept and feeling of shame. We should try to find common elements that bind us and strengthen our commitment to coexistence, cohabitation and assimilation. Also, our founding fathers were all of Indian descent ----- Lo Kar Lo Gal. Even more so the reason to celebrate our diversity of culture and work together for a better future. Regional co-operation and open trade is the very key to economic prosperity for the underdeveloped nations of Asia. Much as I loathe Mr Sharif's political practices, I am all in favour of a sustained dialogue and normalisation of relations between the two nations.
    
    Khawar Mehdi
    USA
    
    
    
37. It's only the US diplomacy and nothing else. It would be good if the Indian premier visited on his own choice.
    
    Afzal Rahim
    Pakistan
    
    
    
38. It is definitely a right step. We have an increasingly global economy and global civilisation now. We need to re-evaluate our long-standing bias and policies. The common man has suffered enough at the hands of politicians and religious leaders. A few days back, I was reading an article by Benazir Bhutto who is an advocate of a common economic zone for all South Asian countries. I wholeheartedly support that concept. Based on the letters I read in this Forum, I think we have a long way to go. Although I am in the USA for almost 30 years now, I sense that there are a significant number of people who want to forget the past and look towards a bright future. We have a very talented people (at least technically), but our minds have been poisoned with bias and mutual suspicion. Let us look ahead and mend our ways, otherwise history will overtake us.
    
    Ramesh M. Mehta
    USA
    
    
    
39. This summit has nothing to do with the Kashmir issue. So I think this summit is useless for Pakistan. Similarly, no serious results can be achieved by these summits if key issues are not on the agenda.
    
    Syed Waqas Shah
    Rabwah, Pakistan
    
    
    
40. I think it is a good step towards peace in the subcontinent. Until the Kashmir issue is solved there can't be peace in the region, so they should keep having this kind of talks.
    
    Abdul Qadir
    Canada
    
    
    
41. Reply to Tanveer from the so-called Pakistan:
    I was raised as a Pakistani/Muslim in a small working class community in Pakistan. But I was informed in my college life by the so-called Pakistanis (actually Sindhi, Punjabi, Pathan or Seraiki) that, I am a Mohajir and not a Pakistani because my parents were from India. I tried my best to stay as a Pakistani but as a consequence I suffered misbehaviour in my college life from different classes of people. Because I was Pakistani, I also felt unsafe, as there was no body to protect me from those people. I noticed at the end of my educational carrier that Mohajir identity is emerging among the student as a result of a chain reaction to such misbehaviour that I suffered in my college life; and at present it is becoming even more negative, which is bad. Hopefully, this will explain Mr. Tanveer who commented on Mohajirs- the identity which my parents and I received from the so-called Pakistanis. The current situation in the so-called Pakistan actually tells us that all true Pakistanis (no matter from what region or language they come from) living overseas should not think of returning because the so-called Pakistan is not safe for them. Finally the Lahore summit is not more than a paper talk without any positive future result. If the people of the so-called Pakistan want to improve the lives of the coming generations, then they should try to become true Muslims or at least human, because without it the so-called Pakistan will eventually be destroyed without the help of India.
    
    Azhar
    USA
    
    
    
42. I think the Pakistan-India summit recently held in Lahore is the only good thing the Pakistani and Indian governments have ever done since the partition to solve the Kashmir problem and to maintain good relations between two great countries. This type of talks also helps in the import and export business between the two counties. I hope they solve all the problems between each other with some more good talks soon.
    
    Mohammad Umer
    Canada
    
    
    
43. Raja Dahir's nation always understands Muhammad bin Qasim's language.
    
    Muhammad Sabir
    USA
    
    
    
44. They worship cows, we eat them and enjoy!
    
    Khan
    UK
    
    
    
45. All rubbish. Everyone knows that Muslims and Hindus of the subcontinent had tried to live together for more than 1000 years but they failed. We had realised in 1947 and we should realise in 1999 that both of us have a different chemistry and can't live together. The visit of the Indian PM doesn't make sense, as the Kashmir issue is still unsolved. If India is serious in resolving the Kashmir issue, then this must be done at delegates level. There is no need for the Indian Prime minister to visit Pakistan. In fact things are not that simple as they appear to be. This was on the American agenda. Does anyone know what was the agenda of Indian PM's visit? What have Pakistani and Indian PMs discussed and decided and on what grounds? All these questions must be asked; but one will never get an answer.
    
    Nadeem
    Australia
    
    
    
46. I think it is a step in the right direction towards regional stability since the independence of the two nations over 50 years ago. Peace and stability is essential for both countries so that they can concentrate less on spending millions of dollars on arms and more on building the infrastructure of their economies. Being a Pakistani citizen, I find it essential to be at peace with India, even though I regard it as a hostile and aggressive neighbour, in order to build a stronger Pakistan.
    I think I can speak on behalf of every Pakistani that we in Pakistan should set our differences aside and stop this internal civil war which is tearing the country apart, and should start building a nation and get our act together.
    
    Hassan Saeed
    United Kingdom
    
    
    
47. It was appreciable. The two Prime Ministers have shown sagacity by addressing the issues that have endangered peace in the Sub-Continent. What they should do is to come out of the confines of narrow-mindedness and work for the betterment of the people.
    
    Ali Tauqeer
    Srinagar Kashmir India
    
    
    
48. Post summit declarations by Mr.Vajapyee have made it clear that India is not really interested in the talks. The real aim behind all this is to release the military, economic and political pressure on India, which has been built up by the successful struggle of Mujahideen in Kashmir. Mian Nawaz Sharif, it seems, is bent on destroying the struggle of Kashmiri Muslims, which is really shameful. Talks with India without the issue of plebiscite in Kashmir on agenda are useless and this has been Pakistan's stance for the past 50 years. In the present dialogue this was not the main agenda. Instead of developing trade ties with India, Pakistan should urge other Muslim countries to break similar ties with India. The UN and other countries have used economic sanctions successfully to bring naughty countries to talking terms. Mr. Sharif should remember that if he continues on this course, the Muslim Ummah will always remember him as a traitor who was responsible for selling his Kashmiri ( He is a Kashmiri himself) brethren.
    
    Mian Zainulabadin Khurrum
    Saudi Arabia
    
    
    
49. Momin hay to bay taigh bhi larta hay sipahi.
    You should ask this question of Allama Iqbal
    
    Saeed Rafique
    USA
    
    
    
50. It is a good step towards lasting solution of the most vexed problem of the South Asian region. I wish wisdom prevails upon the leadership of the two countries and they address the basic issue with sincerity of purpose keeping in view the historical facts.
    
    Morifat Qadari
    Srinagar Kashmir, India
    
    
    
51. History of 50 years shows that India never accepted Kashmir as a disputed issue; then how can BJP, a pure Hindu party can do it? It was an enjoying trip to show the world that we are going to solve the Kashmir issue.
    
    M S Javed.
    Kuwait
    
    
    
52. Let's not be deluded by the fallacy that Kashmir is the key to peace in the sub-continent. Pakistan and India will find more bones to keep the contention alive. The two nations have played psycho-political games for the last five decades and will continue to do so if not stopped by their people. Since I am from Pakistan, I will confine my case to Pakistan. Our beliefs and lives are dominated by delusions of grandeur, persecution and divine. We as a nation have always sought world attention in one form or the other. Most of the political and state sponsored acts in the last fifty years have backfired- be it Salamullah's hijacking (with PPP's patronage), Zia's costly miscalculation on Afghanistan or Mian Jee's firecracker atomic blast. The many times when we made it to the roll of honours were when it was an individual act of merit, heroism or accomplishment. It is high time to stop the process of self-destruction that has been going on since the very inception of Pakistan. We can not just blame the leaders, for they are the very products of the environment we all live in. The Lahore summit is a small step in the right direction. Mian Sahib and Sri Vajpayee have made a decent start. It is the responsibility of the people of the two nations to make a reality out of the process and bring it to a conclusion.
    
    Khawar Mehdi
    USA
    
    
    
53. I think it’s a very smart step between the two countries, because there is no use of war between Pakistan and India. Due to this issue both countries are getting a very profitable business from all over the world.
    
    Asad Syed
    Sweden
    
    
    
54. I was delighted by an opinion given by Mr. Khawar Mumtaz in this column and would like to go a bit further and convey my proposal to both the governments: The State of Jammu be retained by India, the State of Azad Kashmir be merged into Pakistan, and the occupied Kashmir be made a free and independent state. A pledge would be taken by the new country that it would favour neither India nor Pakistan in its decisions and will act as an independent state.
    
    Mrs. Amtul Haleem
    Kuwait
    
    
    
55. It is an excellent start to reduce tension between two neighbouring countries. We love peace and letting others live in peace.
    
    Khalid Butt
    Thailand
    
    
    
56. I think this is a positive step. Both countries should sit together and solve the issues that cause friction between them. I think both countries should get together and make a confederation with a joint defence force and a common unit with two different governments. I know this is in the interest of people on both sides of the border to reduce army expenditures and live together and work in harmony for the betterment of people. When both India and Pakistan will be under the same confederation, the Kashmir problem will dissolve automatically. This is my very dream, I will pray for it to come true in my life span.
    
    Amir Butt
    USA
    
    
    
57. The more I read the views of Pakistanis in any forum, the more I begin to wonder what mindsets are born out of a society born out of lies! Every time they utter anything, they talk of Kashmir and how Indians want Pakistan broken apart. First, nobody in India gives a damn about Pakistan or its people.... what they are or how they are.... unlike Pakistanis whose political existence revolves around putting India, Hindus and other Indian constituents down at all conceivable opportunities. I often say jokingly, that if India ceased to exist, Pakistanis would not know what to do in their lives; they would commit mass suicide. As for Kashmir, it is astonishing that Pakistanis make it a moral issue and perpetuate the lie that India is harming the women of Kashmir, and so, the purity of "Muslim ummah" is being threatened! None ever asks, that what has happened to the portion of Kashmir that Pakistan had occupied due to Nehru's foolishness and then bartered away to China! China is a country that doesn't care for its own women, I wonder how Muslim "izzat" when sold to china for a few weapons is safe. Let's face it guys, it is a question of strategic control and not a moral issue. If it is, then Pakistanis are guilty of pawning the "izzat" of Muslim women for their own benefits! Weapons from China are for defending Pakistan- not Kashmir!
    
    Deepak Kapoor
    USA
    
    
    
58. India would never have agreed to such a meeting until and unless it had felt that it was in a weaker position. I feel that India has realised that by exploding nuclear devices a militarily weaker Pakistan is now equally strong. Due to nuclear explosions, the Kashmir issue was internationalised and pressure was mounting from the rest of the world for its resolution. India has achieved the goal of reducing world's concerns about Kashmir and our leaders have made a mistake due to our national character of insincerity and lack of nationalism. The efforts to prove the two-nation theory wrong have also intensified on Indian media with the help of Pakistanis visiting India specially the artists. I have lived abroad and known some Indians, and have realised how lucky we are by having a separate homeland. Yes, the so-called Mohajirs of Karachi might not agree with me but their views do not count as they relate more to India and like to call themselves Mohajirs and not Pakistanis. May Allah save us from the enemy within and without.
    
    Tanveer
    Pakistan
    
    
    
59. I view the optimism with sadness. Politicians say what suits them. The fact of the matter is that both India and Pakistan have made a mockery of the real issues, which are poverty, lack of education, lack of basic infrastructure for growth, corruption and so on. Ordinary people in both the countries are suffering. The meaningless bloodshed in Siachen at tremendous cost to both the countries is a case in point. National boundaries, religion, are hollow words for empty bellies. Let’s rise above all this, and spread love and respect for each other.
    
    Mushtaq
    A Pakistani-Born Indian
    
    
    
60. A truth which can save millions (People as well as $)
    Raza
    USA
    
    
    
61. I think this is a landmark step towards the solution of the Kashmir issue. I would like to see Kashmir taken by force, but we do not have the capabilities to achieve this. The next best thing is 'dialogue'. It's better to talk than fight. Jews and Palestinians killed each other for over 40 years, and they finally talked. I wish our government had enough intelligence not to get the Americans involved as any peace achieved with the help of the US and UK is usually harmful to Muslims. That is the very reason why the West gets involved in conflict between a Muslim and a non-Muslim country. Look at what British did. Despite Jinnah's hard work, we did not get land connecting the West and East Pakistan. The US helped broker establishment of Palestine, but they did it in such a way that Jews and Palestinians will always need American help in maintaining peace. And examples go on and on. So any talks between India and Pakistan are better than war. In response to a statement from the Indian minister on the subject of 'akhand Bharat': Yes, I like the idea of becoming one country very much, with the only condition that I have, is that the capital must be Islamabad and the Constitution must be of Pakistan.
    
    Jamil Ahmad
    USA
    
    
    
62. It is the other way round because there aren't any Maumins.
    
    Asim Majeed
    USA
    
    
    
63. In my opinion Mr Nawaz Sharif is ignorant. He does not know any thing about politics. I think we are better off with out any government in Pakistan because it's not working any more
    
    Rizwan Sattar
    Australia
    
    
    
64. My opinion is the same as that of most Pakistanis. Nawaz Sharif is under threat spell of Clinton. These decisions bode the end of Pakistan- a hideous end of the sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of innocent Muslims. This is a further insult to the injuries the nation is suffering at the hands of selfish Pakistani politicians who are continuing with the plundering of Pakistani heritage and wealth.
    
    Alhaj, Sheikh Muzaffar-uz-Zaman
    Pakistan
    
    
    
65. The meeting of Indian and Pakistani prime ministers is a positive development. Let us not waste this opportunity by concentrating on individual issues. Most of the issues are due to the mistrust and mutual hate. Only time and great leadership will help to solve these issues. We should concentrate on things in which we can make quick progress like trade, cultural relations, tourism etc. This will help to solve existing issues by creating positive environment. Worldwide trade blocks are becoming powerful (European union, ASEAN etc.). If Indo-Pak relations improve, the SAARC has potential to become a powerful trade block, which will help the people of all South Asian countries. Let us not forget that majority of our people live in poverty. Any step to ease their hardship will be the best service to our future generation and God.
    
    Vijay
    India
    
    
    
66. Of course, it was a very good meeting and would bring the people of both the countries closer to each other (we are the same when it comes to Indian movies anyway). I liked the proposal given by Shahbaz Sharif that the Occupied Kashmir is handed over to Pakistan while India retains the areas which constitutes Jammu. How about making Kashmir an independent state?
    
    Khawar Mumtaz Bhatti
    Kuwait
    
    
    
67. I was shocked to read the large number of negative messages on this forum. Not only are most of the claims made by people about Hindus or Indians unsubstantiated, they seem also to be highly un-Islamic, vicious and inhumane. Yes India is guilty of human rights violations in Kashmir and should be forced to deal with the issue justly. But Pakistan is not a world of great justice either. It is guilty of discriminating against women, persecution of other religions and negligence of its poor and destitute people. No one can deny the extra-judicial killings that go on in every jail, the wife-bashing that happens at every other house or the pagan rites that ensue at every Pir's den. Every form of injustice exists in the country, from bigotry to nepotism to murder and rape. We are all Muslims here. Where are those monster Hindus who are perpetuating this evil? Did America export these criminals into our society? Did they come in the form of Indian agents? If the answers to both of these questions are in the negative, then why aren't the religious leaders of this 'pure' country fighting against the evils their brother Muslims are perpetuating? Could it be possible that these virtuous beings are the very evil we need to get rid of?
    
    Usman Sharif
    USA
    
    
    
68. It is appreciable that stalemate has been broken. But, it has been our experience that all earlier meetings between India and Pakistan failed as they neither showed the will nor determination to address the basic issue. Unless they are ready to develop the attitude of accepting the hard realities about the basic issue that is Kashmir, these talks like Liaqat-Nehru, Bhutto-Swaran Singh talks will end in a fiasco. In my view the two countries should try to find a solution to the Kashmir problem on the basis of justice as envisaged in the international law.
    
    Zahid Mehmood
    Kashmir, India
    
    
    
69. Laton ke bhoot baton se nahin mantey
    
    Arshad khan
    UK
    
    
    
70. I appreciate Nawaz Sharif for taking positive steps. Here I would like to express my views regarding the so-called Mujahideen-e-Kashmir. These Mujahideen are just being used by extremist Islamic fundamentalists who do not know much about Islam and the essence of Islam. These people have killed so many human beings just for there own vested interests or out of ignorance. If you look at history, these are the people who always obstructed the spread of peace and harmony even among the Muslims .If they really are interested in Islam and Jihad they should come to Pakistan and just take steps to educate the masses. There is no need for Jihad in Kashmir. If hundreds of thousands of Muslims can live in peace in India, why can't they in Kashmir? It's time to get rid of the differences and step ahead towards a United India where Muslims have lived for centuries and can still serve a better cause by shunning the heavy spending on arms.
    
    Syed Rizvi
    USA
    
    
    
71. It was a smart step towards a better future for Pakistan. But according to what I've heard/watched, both the Prime Ministers did not discuss much about the Kashmir issue. Still it was something worth it. It would be a good idea if the Head of State tries to bring this up to an international level because not many people around the world know about it. If it requires for the Head of State to reach up to a conclusion over the nuclear issue, he should go for it, for it would be a nice effort to be friends with some of the major countries' leaders, and would help him gain recognition, which in long run would be beneficial. We should do this not only for the Muslims in Pakistan but also for every Muslim living in the world (especially the Muslims of Kashmir). Once again, it was an effort to feel good about (after a long time).
    
    AJ
    US
    
    
    
72. I guess it was an excellent step to reduce tension between the two countries, which in turn will cut down the unnecessary defence budget. That money can be well spent elsewhere in building the nations and reducing the number of poor people in both the countries. Utilising efforts and money in the high-tech area will be another good outcome of the same.
    
    Sumbal Rafiq
    USA
    
    
    
73. How can they think of making peace and trade with India without solving the Kashmir dispute? We Pakistanis don't want to betray our Kashmiri brothers and sisters fighting for freedom and all those who laid their lives for this cause. Muslims are bound to help the Muslims in trouble and there are no geographic restrictions for that. The Indians just want to kill time so that they can crush the freedom movement. They just want to fool the world by engaging Pakistan in negotiations and when they go back to their country they simply forget everything and claim that Kashmir is an integral part of India. The Pakistani politicians are in the habit of boasting that they brought victory to Pakistan in negotiations. Everybody knows that the global trend is for growing economic relations rather than going for wars. Pakistan should not engage itself in useless talks with India directly. Instead it should try to raise the issue at United Nations and with friendly nations. We need to settle this issue before it's too late. We should keep up the moral and spiritual aid for Kashmiris and if things don't seem to change, start giving military aid to freedom fighters. The day will come inshallah when the Indian occupied Kashmir will become part of Pakistan.
    
    Mohammad Nisar
    Canada
    
    
    
74. I want to congratulate both heads of the state for availing this opportunity to talk. After all that's what the vast majority of the people of both countries want; the leaders are just catching up. However, it is also interesting that the army was not present to greet the Indian Prime Minister, which could be a historic moment.
    
    Nauroz Wein
    USA
    
    
    
75. This summit is indeed an encouraging step towards reducing tension and building an atmosphere of trust between the two countries. It is simply obscene that both India and Pakistan should squander precious resources on armaments when millions of their hapless inhabitants live in abject poverty. However, it is only a first step and one should not expect too much given the complexity of the issues, particularly the Kashmir one, which the two countries have to resolve.
    
    Dr. Shamsul Hassan
    Canada
    
    
    
76. What were the forces that brought both countries together is far more important than the actual outcome of the summit. If they have come together under pressure from the West and in particular America, then this summit was nothing more than pomp and ceremony. Pakistan was a major loser, should that be the case. America is no kith or kin of Pakistan; all it wants is to have the first and only Muslim country dismantle its nuclear program. It is even prepared to sink Pakistan back into India, so that it can sleep easy knowing that Hindu fingers rest on the button. It is typical of Americans to pursue policies for their own interests through legal and illegal means simultaneously via different channels. If Indo-Pak summit was one such channel then for Pakistanis there is absolutely nothing to hope for and for Kashmiris there is only humiliation, physical and mental torture for the foreseeable future. And our erstwhile respectable prime minister has reduced himself to nothing more than a puppet of the Americans. Pakistani people expect of him to show maturity and better judgement and not put up such hollow shows, which diplomatically reduce pressure on the Indians to find a solution to the Kashmir issue. Rest assured, it will only be a miracle if Kashmir issue is solved peacefully, however both countries can take steps that could push back the conflict into distant future. With the death of PPP in the last elections there is no forceful opposition or critical scrutiny to Nawaz in pursuance of his policies with India (ignore JI, how many people supported them in any elections? point taken!). Hence he should proceed with extreme caution since in such an environment, sincere steps can be mistaken or proven to be high treason by opponents when events take a nasty turn and punished by the death. Nawaz has to realise that his job is not only to build confidence building measures between Pakistan and India but also to build trust between himself and the nation he is leading and in particular the intellectual base. To that end he has to set up a cell or cells, secret or open (composed of some high military officials and others) which follow closely and prepare him for the momentous and/or historic steps forward he is attempting, internally or externally. Reading Benazir's (BB) statement on the summit and a PPP statement on this page (which are word-to-word identical) as well, fills one with horror and sadness; such blatant pushing of American and foreign interests by the PPP leader is going unpunished by the intelligence agencies, who are paid to keep a check on these things. According to her and her party, Indo-Pak (1/5 of humanity) should have met in a historic summit not to resolve mutual conflicts or discuss ways to solve problems of poverty, disease, illiteracy, but to sign CTBT which is akin to bowing in front of their former colonial masters and saying " Oh master we have sinned in testing our bombs (tiny compared to yours). Forgive us and we promise never to do it again till the day of judgement, and if you so wish master we’ll get rid of them altogether; we all heartily accept that it is immaterial that you have tested your humongous bombs more than a thousand times and that in future you might blackmail us. Oh master! Can you in return get BB out of trouble and put her back into the saddle of power and correct this natural injustice at the ballot box (Bhutto children are born to govern (foolish) Pakistanis). If you think BB's statement on Pakistan-India summit is pathetic, then wait and see if she loses the next elections. She'll be running around demanding to be made the ruler whether people want it or not. PPP should wake up and re-organise under new leadership and play its rightful role in national politics before it is too late. As far as Pakistan-India dialogue is concerned, only Nawaz himself can decide its future course, since he is the one who met Vajpayee alone.
    
    Arfan Khan
    United Kingdom
    
    
    
77. My opinion is that our brothers the Mujahids are laying down their lives for freedom of the land of Kashmir; our sisters and mothers are being raped by Indian gangsters. How then could we talk peace and give a fervent welcome to the kuffar? We cannot make peace with the Indians until every Indian is gone from the occupied territory and the Kashmiris are free. Inshallah we will fight till the end and victory will be ours, no matter what these politicians do to gain some points.
    
    Hamza
    USA
    
    
    
78. It was the best thing happened in this century. I am very happy about the outcome of the summit,
    We need peace on this earth; we need friendship not war.
    
    Abdul Khan
    Canada
    
    
    
79. I don't think that this meeting will pave way for progress of these two nations, as both these nations are under heavy sanctions; they are planning to show the world by signing the CTBT that they are now friends. On the contrary, Hindus and the Muslims are quite opposite nations and negotiations of any type are not possible between them. I believe that this meeting was a drama and the actual director is someone else.
    
    Syed Waseem Gohar
    USA
    
    
    
80. Being part of the new generation, I view Pak-India relationship differently from the previous generation. I have worked and studied with Indians in different places of the world and I have never been able to relate with them. They have always seemed to be an alien lot. Their culture, values and even language is vastly different from ours. And I am talking about all Indians; be they Hindus or Muslims. Maybe the Karachiites or Mohajirs feel any affinity toward Indians, but people from the rest of Pakistan do not. We can only bear with some Indian Muslims who believe in Pan-Islamism. I feel more at home with people from Middle East and central Asia because their values are much more similar to ours. I believe that there is no use talking with Indians. The only language they understand is the language of power. The South Asians can not live in peace unless India is disintegrated. India is an artificial country created by the British. Its division into smaller countries is the only solution of South Asian problems.
    
    Kamran Chaudhary
    Pakistan
    
    
    
81. These summits are totally useless as long as our vast uneducated population is being politically exploited. People have to realise there are no more bapus or chachas there in Delhi or Islamabad but only the corrupt in the garb of politics. This summit is just another mock drill. Still, I wish good luck to these leaders.
    
    Kumar
    USA
    
    
    
82. The Lahore Summit seems a good step toward solution; but this summit was arranged under American pressure. And our politicians were thinking they had attempted something impossible; but recent military exercises near the border of Pakistan seem ominous. Our leaders must keep their eyes open before reaching any commitment. The fate and sacrifices of millions of Kashmiris should not go waste.
    
    Asad Mustafa
    Japan
    
    
    
83. I am pleased with the peace-initiatives taken by the two leaders. But I feel that the army in both countries would not let any political leadership reduce defence threats, because they want to justify an ever-increasing defence expenditure. I feel the best way to materialise the peace initiatives is for the common people and intellectuals across the border to talk and mobilise public opinion against war on any front.
    
    Syed Akhtar
    USA
    
    
    
84. Let them do what the leaders are doing; they are responsible Pakistanis. Pakistan is also their homeland. Overall it's okay. Wait for a good response. Well done Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.
    
    Suhail Chouhdry
    Malaysia
    
    
    
85. This whole summit is a sham. Why should we make peace with the Hindus? Shouldn't it be the other way around? We need to get our due respect. India still thinks that Pakistan should be part of India. When they flexed their nuclear missile, they claimed to be showing China what they were made of, cow dung and elephant skin. If they were really trying to show China this, then why did they test the nukes on the border with Pakistan? They were trying to intimidate Pakistan. But we fought back, and how we did. What I'm saying is, that Pakistan shouldn't give up to the Hindus, such as this summit. India should be the one apologising, not us. They may not show it, but they are scared of us. They signed a defence pact with Russia to 2010. I guess they are really scared. Pakistan is a smarter nation because we detonated our own bombs, not some plans bought from the Russians, and we haven't even thought of signing a defence pact yet. I think Mr. Sharif should listen to what India has to say, but he shouldn't, by all means, follow exactly what they say, because frankly, the Hindus are waiting for Pakistan to look the other way, and then fire their Russian imitation nukes down our throats.
    
    Hasan
    USA
    
    
    
86. I think that talking with India is nothing but foolishness. In Quran, Allah said that the Jews and the Christians would never be your friends unless you switch your religion and become one of them. And Allah just did not mean Jew or Christians but every single non-Islamic group. Our brothers in Kashmir are suffering and all we can think of is talk. That is not fair to the brothers and sisters who are in Kashmir. We have to be aggressive and brave in order to make things better for ourselves and for our Islamic brothers in the world.
    
    Rashid Hafiz
    USA
    
    
    
87. Everywhere in the world only Muslims are termed ethnic, and are being crushed either by Christians, Jews, or Hindu like in Kosovo, Bosnia, Kashmir, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Palestine. Nobody feels a pinch of human right violation in those areas because of religious disparity. Indian Hindu government will never agree to have plebiscite in Kashmir in accordance with the UN Resolution. This is the only issue on which both countries fought two wars. The people of Kashmir must be allowed to decide their own future under the UN charter. This is the only and workable solution. After that the meeting between the Pakistan and Indian Prime Ministers will have significant results; otherwise it is simple politics and nothing more. Jihad and preaching of Islam is the best weapon to fight with against such negative forces.
    
    Nusrat Iqbal
    USA
    
    
    
88. Useless attempt!
    
    Sheryar
    Pakistan
    
    
    
89. POKHRAN: India held its largest air force war games on Sunday over this northern desert site, near the Pakistan border, where it conducted a series of nuclear tests last year. Around 100 fighter jets, bombers and helicopters joined the 90-minute manoeuvre at the Pokhran nuclear test site in Rajasthan state, just 33 kilometres from the heavily militarised border" -Jang, March 08, 1999. Listen guys! What are we talking here, 'peace'? They are ridiculing us. Open your eyes before it's too late. The choice is yours.
    
    Arif Mir
    USA
    
    
    
90. I strongly protest the Indian Interior minister's remarks on Indo-Pakistan confederation. It is totally unacceptable and even unthinkable for us to make a confederation with Hindu India. It is rather more rational to make confederation with Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Iran than with India. If the case were so, we should not have got our independence from the British Raj. Pakistan is a creation of the two-nation theory and it will never ever merge into any confederation. I think the Pakistani government should lambaste the Indian Interior minister over his comments that were enough to undermine the positive steps taken by the two prime ministers.
    
    Khalid Mahmood Bhatti
    Denmark
    
    
    
91. To expect an immediate solution of an age-old problem is tantamount to living in a fool's paradise. Yet I believe that the two countries should keep on talking. This will at least keep the looming shadows of war at bay. Diplomacy will slowly but surely lead to the settlement of even the thorniest issues. In the words of John Lennon, "they may say I 'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one."
    
    Syed Imran Ahmed
    Australia
    
    
    
92. There is no doubt that we cannot progress in this modern fast-moving world until we learn to live in harmony. The Kashmir issue should be solved according to the UN resolutions. There should be no compromise on that. If Palestine and other issues can be solved with dialogue why not the Kashmir one? I am sure that if Kashmir issue is solved all other small issues will be resolved soon. We need to spend on education, health, and tackle poverty. We must not lose our dignity but solve the problems.
    
    M.A Sheikh
    UK
    
    
    
93. As Allama Iqbal said "Hoi na zag may payda buland pervazee kharab ker gaee shaheen kay bachay ko sohbate zag. How can we welcome and give him such a reception, when his hands are still red with the blood of 80,000 Kashmiris, which once again confirms my belief in Pakistani government, that we do not practice what we preach.
    
    Dr. Javed Hashmi
    USA
    
    
    
94. I believe it's a first step in the right direction. I hope and pray that we can resolve our problems with India. I believe that we all can benefit from this friendship, including the people of Kashmir. Next time you sit down to pray, please pray for peace in our countries.
    
    Mohammed Ashraf,
    USA
    
    
    
95. Let me tell you something: the only way to make peace is either by accepting defeat or facing a war. Personally I don't like war but until that happens, none of the parties will have peace of mind, regardless of what some optimist folks across the border think. War brings peace; after all, the whole area east of Indus was conquered by Arabs/Turks in a war and people were converted Muslims. The reality is, that time has a habit to change and wars and peace come and go, and so do people and their faiths.
    
    Iqbal Singh
    India
    
    
    
96. If we review the last forty years, one can say that none of the two countries gained progress by keeping the hostile situation. It has been proved that religion alone was not the cause of the problem in the Indian subcontinent. Pakistan lost its East wing because religion alone did not unite the people. The situation in Karachi and the unrest in the Muslims community that had come from India (Mohajirs) proved that there were other types of discriminations beside religion. Sikhs have problem in India, and India is sitting on a fire-bomb of religious, ethnic, languages, poverty and other diversified problems. Kashmiris are dying in their struggle for freedom. They are the target of Indo-Pak politics. I think that our respected Prime Minister Mr. Nawaz Sharif has taken a bold step towards peace with the immediate neighbour. He has done this in accordance with our religious beliefs. Punjab represents the majority of Pakistan and is the country's managing power. The majority of Punjabis look at themselves as true Pakistanis. I think Mr. Sharif faces some difficulties and may also have a hard time convincing the people of Punjab of the unity among people of India-Pakistan. As we move into the 21st century, this summit seems a very positive for both nations and we should move forward keeping the past behind. The people of the Indian subcontinent are one of the most talented human beings in the present world but the kind of prejudices they have is keeping them behind. The culture of India is old and rich, because it has all different nations and religions within. I agree with the late Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi who said that somehow we missed the industrial revolution. And I can tell you why and how we miss the Industrial revolution of the western world: we were too busy fighting with each other on small issues relating to religion and all the other discriminatory issues of that region. In doing so, we even did not comply with the basics of our religious beliefs. So, in the name of all the religions all of us did irreligious things. I salute the Prime ministers of the two countries and hope that people will think positive that our leaders would try to resolve the problems of the poor and the unfortunate people and bring peace and prosperity to the region.
    
    Maroof Qurashi
    USA
    
    
    
97. Apart from politics, I feel the Lahore meeting between the two prime ministers of arch rivals Pakistan and India, was a fruitful start towards a peace process. The people of both countries are tired of wars (hot and cold) and would like to enter the new century with peace, joy and happiness. Both countries have not gained anything since the division of the subcontinent 50 years ago and have wasted a lot of valuable lives, useful resources and huge amount of wealth, for no cause. Kashmir, of course, is a disputed issue that could be and should be solved with peaceful means; and like the Shimla Agreement, the Lahore Agreement should prove a positive step towards the solution of the chronic Kashmir issue. Let us all pray to Allah Almighty for success in our efforts.
    
    Pervez Sultan
    Canada
    
    
    
98. If I recall past relationships of these two countries, I see only one thing clear: the Indian hypocrisy and Hindu hostility towards Muslims and Pakistan. Learning from the past I am sure that this summit was an Indian policy to avoid foreign involvement in the Kashmir issue. They want to prove that Kashmir is a local problem between India and Pakistan. India will never be serious about Kashmir. The only thing they want is to delay the issue. The statement given by the Indian Prime Minister, by the Indian Chief of Staff, and reports of increase in defence budget, continuous crimes against the people of Kashmir all seem ominous events. We know what does that mean.
    
    Naimat ullah
    Philippines
    
    
    
99. It was nothing but part of an ongoing cheating by India. Is it not an established fact that no talk with India is going to be successful without a third party mediation?
    
    Rafique Suleman
    Kuwait
    
    
    
100. I believe it was a right thing to do. Both countries should meet as often as necessary to address their regional issues.
     
     Nadeem Qureshi
     USA
     
     
     
101. This is supposed to help in improving terms between the two countries which is a positive step. I personally would like to project more of such events which may cause to resolve the differences between the two countries. This would make peace and bring cooperation among the leaders as well. The sad fact is, not many people are conscious of the effects of communication between the two countries. They tend to think in the direction which is led by emotions and not by reasonable thinking. I believe that there should be more of such events so that India and Pakistan can resolve the issues that have been bothering them for years.
     
     Sahar Mehmood
     USA
     
     
     
102. We have experienced Hindu behaviour in one thousand years. Do you still have any doubts? Do you still need any option after the latest statement from the Indian Prime Minister? Wake up now.
     
     Ashfaq Derveish
     UK
     
     
     
103. A positive step for the welfare of millions of poor people of both countries. A positive dialogue is the only solution for common people's problems. Nowadays poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, bribery, injustice are our bigger enemies. To make a country strong we first have to fight with these social evils. All those who are against the peace process are bunch of opportunists. As a Pakistani I'll not pass any judgement on Indian right or left wing extremists but my Pakistani leaders are using this slogan only for their own worldly cause. These parties do not mind to use Islam to propagate their agenda; how could they feel bad to use any other issue for their "just cause". My dear brothers and sisters believe me, the motives these so-called religious leaders are dubious. Our Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed us the path of love and compassion but these leaders are teaching us only hatred and compulsion in the name of Islam.
     
     Saif Rahman
     USA
     
     
     
104. Khuda nay aaj tak us Qaum ki haalat nahin badlee naa ho khayaal khud jisay apni haalat badalnay ka. The first step in the right direction in 52 years. I hope this to proceed on more frequent and planned basis. I pray to God to give some sense to people, especially politicians, who oppose this initiative.
     
     G.M Khan
     Pakistan
     
     
     
105. No talks will be successful until India accepts that Kashmir is a disputed issue; and it should be decided by the Kashmiris using plebiscite as agreed by India and Pakistan in the UNO. It was shameful that the UNO resolution was not mentioned in Lahore Declaration, which should be the core agenda item for such type of talks.
     
     Dr. Nazeer Khan
     Saudi Arabia
     
     
     
106. That was a breaking of ice; I mean both the countries need such talks. They will create an atmosphere which will eventually help in creating peace in our region. We are knocking at the 21st century, and we need peace for our coming generation. Both the countries fought three wars and what did we get? We need to provide our people basic necessities, like food, water, shelter, and jobs to our youth. This can be achieved only in a peaceful atmosphere, not in the existing one. So, we have to solve our eternal disputes first (mainly with India) then only will our govt be able to solve the interior problems. Like the situation in Karachi. And I can't understand why opposition parties, especially the "Jamaat-e-Islami", are opposed to this summit. So in my view these kinds of summits are a good sign for peace in our region.
     
     Waqar Rana
     Australia
     
     
     
107. It is a good deal, and I hope it will help solve the problems between us and help resolve the Kashmir issue also. We do not want war with India; it's the only way to solve our problems.
     
     Waseem Akhtar
     USA
     
     
     
108. I think it's a good start, and it will help release the tension. Normal Pakistanis and Indians do not want war. This should be kept alive.
     
     Fawad
     Norway
     
     
     
109. This is an encouraging situation. I think we should appreciate and support any effort that is targeted to bring our two nations nearer to each other. The first step towards this is confidence building. Both the nations should trust each other and try to lessen the tensions. People should see, particularly outside Pakistan and India, how well we get along in day-to-day life. I have lived in Saudi Arabia for some years and am now in the US. I have seen Pakistani and Indian shops in both the countries and both the communities go to each other’s shops and buy things. We exchange smiles, care for each other and trust each other. If we can do it outside our countries we should be able to do it inside also. Problems like Kashmir need to be resolved on priority basis; it's a reality and leaderships of both countries have accepted it. I personally think that politicians of both the countries have made Kashmir a good cover for themselves and they propagate Kashmir issue highly during the election campaigns or when they are in trouble. They exploit our emotions and use common people. Kashmiris will, God willing, win freedom but they need support from both the countries. Otherwise this problem is going to prevail forever. This is another reality that neither Pakistan nor India can solve this problem with force.
     Ultimately it comes to common people of both the countries to encourage friendship and trust between each other.
     
     Systems Analyst
     Abid Muhammad Rana
     USA.
     
     
     
110. Those who want closer ties with India should ask themselves what was the purpose of creating Pakistan in the first place? As Muslims it is our duty to feel the pain of other Muslims rather than to side with their oppressors. Having lived amongst non-Muslims all my life I know for a fact that the only way you can become close to them is if you compromise your way of life and follow theirs. India is relaxing censorship by the day and this can be seen by the raunchy nature of its TV programmes. It won't be long before it catches up with the West in this respect. And if we want to build cultural ties with them then we should be mature enough to accept the following as natural consequences of going down this road; fornication, adultery, pornography, high divorce rates, acceptance of alcohol, obscene language becoming widespread on TV etc. In western countries you have to be prepared to take the good with the bad. The mature person will be able to accept that these are natural consequences of the modern world and he or she will be ready for them to affect his or her own family just as soon as someone else's. Anybody who doesn't accept that this will happen is deluding him or herself.
     
     Saqib Akhtar
     UK
     
     
     
111. I think it is a positive step for both India and Pakistan which could solve all previous problems. Everybody knows that India took the first step of conducting nuclear test. After that Pakistan did the same. If again India is taking the first step to resolve all previous problems, then it is not a bad idea for both countries to solve all problems.
     
     Muhammad Umar Ul-Saqqaf
     Russia
     
     
     
112. Nawaz-Vajpayee summit is a very good step towards improving relations. Such kind of summit can bring peace and stability in the subcontinent.
     
     Khalid Mahmood Bhatti
     Denmark
     
     
     
113. I think that it is just a waste of time; there will be no outcome. The reason is that other than Kashmir, there are many problems. But if we take only Kashmir, will India give Kashmir to us? Or will it give independence to Kashmiris? This is not possible. Or will Pakistan back out from Kashmir issue? Even if somehow the Kashmir issue is resolved who will pay for the blood that was shed by the Indian armed forces in Kashmir and the children who became orphans or the women that were widowed? I think that if India somehow brings all the people back that were killed there might be a chance. But other than that there is no possibility.
     
     Ibrahim
     Chicago
     
     
     
114. I think most of the respondents have failed to understand that trade is not the issue here. India and Pakistan have only one difference: Kashmir. The economy part may be very important, but it is not even worth one human life, and we are talking about 70,000 people who had died only because they wanted to live within Pakistan, supposedly an Islamic country. Also, in case of economy, the Indian companies are 10 times bigger than Pakistani companies, which simply means that open trade will destroy Pakistan. There are also reports that this summit was held under the US pressure. So, this summit is just a waste of time, also because the recent statements from both sides have clearly showed the difference. So, I think it was a forced summit that was only to show to the world that the US is still in power. I fail to see any other viable reason.
     
     Sohaib Faruqi
     USA
     
     
     
115. Both the Prime Ministers socialised, they had good food and tea, shook hands and then went back to what they were doing- enjoying powers and thinking of how to make their countries worse off.
     
     Arsalan Sheikh
     Pakistan
     
     
     
116. It's about time! The truth however is that nothing positive will ever happen. Our leaders are great politicians.
     
     Junaid Khan
     Houston, Texas
     
     
     
117. I think what Mr. Nawaz Sharif did was right, because he didn't have any other option; seems like all the Muslim countries in the world don't have any options. Our leaders and most of the Muslim countries are scared because they know if they stand up and do something against America's will, they will be stamped 'terrorist country', and eventually will be bombed. I don't think there will be any solution for Kashmir, because we Muslims and our leaders don't have the courage to do anything which will help other Muslims.
     
     Amjad Ansari
     USA
     
     
     
118. Show some action instead of talking.
     
     Riffat Naseem
     England
     
     
     
119. I think it might be a good step to improve the relations between the two countries. But taking into consideration the previous relations, I do not think they will be able to make any positive decision, as had happened in the past. There could be some miracle which could bring the two nations close to each other.
     
     Khayal
     Denmark
     
     
     
120. I am pleased with the peace-initiatives taken by the two leaders. But I feel that the army in Pakistan would not let any political leadership reduce defence threats, because the GHQ wants to justify an ever-increasing defence expenditure. The same may be the case with the Indians. I feel the best way to materialise the peace initiatives is for the common people and intellectuals across the border to talk and mobilise public opinion against war on any front.
     
     Moid
     Pakistan
     
     
     
121. Any meeting between the two heads of government is a welcome sign. Nothing much can be achieved in just a few meetings. Also, in the beginning both are expected to convey their known and usual stance. But speak they must. I would also like to highlight the need for us to believe in our leadership and trust them. No one could, and would, betray Pakistan. We as a nation need to learn to mind our own business and let our leadership do its duty. Each one of us takes to talking only and does precisely the same things when in a position to do so. I guess that's because there are facts that are not common knowledge and therefore a common man cannot be expected to assess the situation correctly. So, let those who are assigned a job do theirs while we should get started with ours. Long Live Pakistan
     
     Salman Masum
     Qatar, Doha
     
     
     
122. One of the main advantages of seeing any other person face-to-face is to get a better understanding of the character, and one is better able to predict a response to a particular action. This even becomes important when the other person is an enemy of the country. There are definite advantages of seeing the Indian Prime Minister in person; at least they will be seeing again and again from their own eyes that Pakistan is a reality and that it cannot be ignored.
     
     Fuad Zufer
     USA
     
     
     
123. A very good beginning but I have my doubts whether we Pakistanis have realised how much we have lost due to this cold war with India. They are our next-door neighbours and we have to live with them in peace and harmony. We have lived with Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and with all other non-Muslims.
     
     R.Khan
     USA
     
     
     
124. I think it was a very bright idea to discuss our problems with India. We waited for so long but thank God we finally realised that it's time to resolve differences and live like good neighbours and not like enemies and destroy our countries.
     
     Riaz
     Texas, USA
     
     
     
125. I think it's a good step forward and it must be realised that India has come to the table because Pakistan has re-established the strategic balance in the region. The only reason why we see a shift in the Indian stance is because today we are also a nuclear power. The doctrine of nuclear deterrence is operative in South Asia and it can be hoped that there will be peace even if it just means absence of war.
     
     Najam Mahmud
     Karachi, Pakistan
     
     
     
126. I am telling you that India is again fooling Pakistan. India isn't trustworthy. The only reason India is in dialogue with Pakistan is that it is under pressure from the USA. Inshallah Kashmir will become Pakistan.
     
     Omar Wali Khan Khattak
     Pakistan
     
     
     
127. The recent meeting of the two long adversaries is nothing more than a talking workshop that has been used to satisfy and meet the Western pressure. In concurrence with Qazi Hussain, this is no more than a mere conspiracy on the part of the enemies of Islam to bring about its downfall. It is sad to see our leaders crippled by their own actions and inability to learn from the past; where the Muslim have been beguiled to live a subservient life to the very adversaries who had in the past brought us to our knees. Had these leaders the strength and courage to seek guidance from the Quran, we would not be in the mess that we find ourselves in. On the notion of the visit, we must not forget the fact that Pakistan has been at war with India twice. Pakistan has spent considerable percentage of its GDP on competing with India so as to attain strategic parity with the enemy.
     
     Mohammed Jamil
     England
     
     
     
128. We are way behind; no more talks; show some actions!
     
     Tanveer Chodri
     USA
     
     
     
129. So far it seems like a positive step but I guess we are missing something here. When a leader make commitments, the nation should stand by him. Gen. Zia encouraged Kashmiris to achieve liberation from Indians and we the nation of Pakistan stood behind him and now when they lost around 86,000 people we withdrew from our commitments. In this whole process we are losing self-dignity. If Indians are interested in bilateral talks they should resolve this issue and then we can work with them on peace and prosperity of the region.
     
     Arif Mir
     USA
     
     
     
130. I think it is an excellent start and will bring both countries closer together. It will also reduce the age-old hostility between the neighbours.
     
     Naresh Chandra
     USA
     
     
     
131. Beware! It is a trap.
     
     Ali
     USA
     
     
     
132. It is strange to see such differing views regarding the Indian PM's visit. Surely it is a step in the right direction. Any move that may lead or potentially lead to lessening of tension is to be welcomed. Both countries can not afford to spend the amount of money they do on "defence". Education and health are sectors which are crying out for an injection of cash currently diverted to the purchase of arms due to the current state of affairs. Those who are disappointed by the Lahore declaration should not be so. This is merely a first step on the road to peace. You can not expect the two countries to start running before they learn to walk. It will be a slow process of mutual understanding resulting hopefully in trust being established. Those who are disappointed with the visit should think how unthinkable the Indian PM's visit would have been even a few years ago. Let’s hope the unthinkable continues to happen and we see the day when both countries live in harmony and in an atmosphere of tolerance.
     
     Asker Husain
     United Kingdom
     
     
     
133. It is just too early to tell what the final outcome will be. I am saying this with reservation because similar cordial meetings have taken place in the past between the leaders of the two nations but ended in a disaster because no party was flexible or willing to take a bold step for peace and prosperity. I believe the ball is in India's court. If she insists that Kashmir is not open to discussion, I just cannot foresee how the two countries can compromise on anything positive. If no constructive steps are taken in the next 3 months or so, this summit is headed for yet another unfortunate failure.
     
     Raza Ullah
     Canada
     
     
     
134. Definitely a step in the right direction. Both India and Pakistan desperately need to concentrate on their respective economies and get on with the business of nation-building. Neither can afford to squander valuable resources on developing weapons of mass destruction. I think both countries need a wake-up call. I fully support the Lahore Agreement. Give peace a chance. Goodwill begets goodwill. Let’s think positive, and hope that the Kashmir problem will be resolved through peaceful negotiations. God bless India and Pakistan
     
     Mr Atique Mirza
     USA
     
     
     
135. A very positive step.
     
     M Chaudhry
     Canada
     
     
     
136. It is a nice move to put all the hatred aside for a while and talk to each other in a friendly environment. But we Pakistanis should not have overreacted to the arrival of the Indian Prime Minister. We should rather present ourselves in a different and intelligent way.
     
     Sheikh Farman Ali
     Canada
     
     
     
137. A courageous step forward by both of the Prime Ministers. It should be followed beyond the lip-service to each other; they have accepted the reality but action is needed not only words. Both countries should work extensively on how to get rid of the root-cause of all the problems, especially the Kashmir issue. Once we are done with Kashmir, both countries have great potential to help each other to solve problems like poverty, illiteracy and to benefit from each other's resources and skills.
     
     Muhammad Yousaf Warraich
     Pakistan
     
     
     
138. It was a bold move on the part of the Indian Prime Minister to visit Pakistan and especially from a person who is supposed to be a Hindu fundamentalist. We should try to analyse this visit and its possible effects with guarded optimism. At least the two bitter foes have agreed to sit together at the highest level. This should lead to opening of new doors to a huge potential market in the South Asia. It would also ease tensions between the countries and would help build some confidence in each other. Both India and Pakistan are poor countries and need to concentrate on their economies instead of spending most of the resources on defence. Mr. Sharif should now take the lead in further enhancing this confidence-building visit by his counterpart without jeopardising the country's supreme interest, that is, Kashmir. I congratulate the leadership in both the countries for taking this positive step.
     
     Tauseef Khan
     USA
     
     
     
139. It is good for both the countries if both leaders are really serious.
     
     Irfan Urfi
     Canada
     
     
     
140. I really appreciate the friendly step taken by both leaders (Nawaz, Vajpayee) after a scary nuke race between the two countries. The Lahore Summit is not only good for Pak-Indo relations but is also like a cool breeze in the burning summer in the region. There is some relief from tension between the people of both nations and therefore an increase in confidence. We would have to forget the past in order to achieve a better future for the development of our country and it isn’t possible without having foreign affairs and trade with neighbouring countries. Kashmir issue can also be solved without any outside interference. This is just a matter of being together once and compromise at the level that satisfies both sides to some extent. There should be further ease in travelling and for small businesses in day-to-day trade practices. I'd like to say one thing in the end, that Pakistan's nuclear explosions made it possible to maintain a balance of power in the region, which allowed no one to make any foolish mistake and misunderstanding. Now Mr. Vajpayee realised it and decided to make better relations.
     
     Ahmad Hassan Mela
     Australia
     
     
     
141. It is difficult for the people of Pakistan to find any solution through bilateral talks with India. The bilateral summit will be unable to provide a solution of the disputed territory of Kashmir. India is trying to avoid the Kashmir issue, and because of this it is always seeking bilateral talks. I do not think the Lahore Summit will bring about any fruitful results. Anyway, best wishes for Pakistani brothers.
     
     Mohammad A Kabir
     Malaysia
     
     
     
142. I think it is good that there is some positive move between two countries. I don't agree with the agitation that some parties displayed on the streets at the arrival of the Indian Premier. Being Muslims, we should have given a warm welcome to the guest; that is our culture and tradition. I think we should try to sit on the table and solve the problem of Kashmir
     without any more bloodshed. We can only develop cultural and friendly relations at the level of common people with India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka rather than with the west or even the Arab nations, because common people in these countries are the same at a same economic level and have almost the same culture and traditions in spite of having different religions.
     If we have friendly relations with India only then will the people of these two countries be able to improve their conditions. I fully support Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in his work.
     
     Jamal
     United Kingdom
     
     
     
143. I do not trust any leader from the present Government of India. India is part of a conspiracy that includes all non-Islamic countries and some Islamic countries as well. Their premier policy is to subdue any Muslim country that may be on the verge of catching up with the rest of the world, economically, technologically, etc. If either leader, Nawaz Sharif or Vajpaee had any backbone, neither would declare Kashmir an independent nation or at least an independent people, giving them self-rule while at the same time having a kind of social union with both India and Pakistan. They should do this without any consultation with other countries, especially the US Russia or China. Both India and Pakistan should help Kashmir to develop in every way after its independence. I am sure that India and Pakistan will benefit in many ways from this action.
     
     Javed Nabi
     
     
     
144. I think it is a very positive step for the betterment and prosperity of Pakistan. We have reached the point where we have to leave our egoistic thought of being different from Indians. This is hundred percent correct that the Pakistanis are in fact entirely different from Indians and after a long unforgettable history of our conflicts with this neighbouring country we can’t even think of coming to good terms with the Indians. Well, right now we have to start thinking of building our selves as a nation. We need to have good trade / business with other countries. India definitely looks like one of those countries. I think this step taken by Nawaz Sharif of meeting with BJP is one of the very few positive things we have seen in the Bhutto or Nawaz regime. I hope every thing works out well for Pakistan as a nation.
     
     Ayesha Mian
     USA
     
     
     
145. I don't think that this summit will make much of a difference as far as Kashmir is concerned. India will never give up Kashmir and it will never allow the people of Kashmir the right to self-determination. The only thing that can be achieved through this summit is better commercial relations, which I think is good for business people in both countries. Now business people
     will have a much larger market and a lot more people to market their products which can help the economy.
     
     Owais Khanzada
     USA
     
     
     
146. A nice and good start.
     
     Ashar Aziz
     
     
     
147. I am very glad that we have come to this stage today. I believe that we need to work honestly and discuss these issues more openly.
     
     Zulfiqar Ali Syed
     London.
     
     
     
148. The previous generation is keeping the hatred between the countries alive. The present generation of both countries want the countries to bury the hatchet and get on with economic uplifting of both the countries. It is madness that we spend most
     of our resources in futile defence build-up against each other.
     
     Goverdhan
     
     
     
149. It is very good that Pakistan and India agreed to talk on the Kashmir issue. Both countries should develop good relations. I also thank the prime ministers of both countries who took a good decision and forgot the past. Anyway, I hope they make relations even better for being good for each other.
     
     Shahzad khan
     Webmaster/Administrator
     
     
     
150. I think it is good that neighbours are talking; the real question is what are they talking about?
     Does Vajpayee or Sharif have the backing of their countrymen to resolve the contentious issue of Kashmir? I doubt it. I am afraid in this hoopla of good neighbourliness the real cause of Kashmiris will be sacrificed. I simply do not trust Mr. Sharif that he will stand up for the cause of Kashmiris.
     
     Naveed Khan
     USA
     
     
     
151. I am really excited and happy to see this happening. I congratulate the prime ministers of both countries. I would like to see South Asian region prospering through SAARC and of course mutual understanding between India and Pakistan can only make it happen. I work with many Indians in the USA and don't feel any difference of culture and language. We should end this enmity and let prosperity come to our region. If Russia and America can talk and resolve many issues, Singapore and Malaysia can become friends, then why not Pakistan and India? Congratulations to Mian Nawaz Sharif. I love and like this Prime Minister, I am proud of him.
     
     Aziz Lalani
     
     
     
152. I think it’s a good start but I don't see an end to it. The motives of either leader Vajpai or Sharif are not clear, or maybe they don't know how to solve Kashmir problem. What I would suggest to Jang is to place a question in public about the suggestions on how to solve the Kashmir problem?
     
     Shaheen Malik
     
     
     
153. This is a historic occasion brought by both the prime ministers to the level where they could discuss something useful for both the nations. I am very happy to see the atmosphere of love and co-operation at the negotiating table. I wish to see brotherly relations between both the nations. I fully support this summit.
     
     Muhammad Afzal
     The Hague
     Netherlands
     
     
     
154. I would like to support the peace process initiated by the Prime Ministers of Pakistan and India. I believe that this is a very positive and encouraging event. People on both sides of the border want to enter the new century without any hatred and fear of war. I hope that the action would be the launch of the process to build bridges of trust, hope and friendship between the people of Pakistan and India.
     
     M. Tariq Khan
     Canada
     
     
     
155. Suspicions, differences and enmity spanning a whole century can not go away in a meeting of barely 24 hours. Many such meetings and declarations have taken place starting 1916 and before. The problems with us are many; our lack of knowledge of history and lust for self-interests has led us to put our vital interests at stake. However, the summit, as reported in newspapers, can at best be considered as a thaw, notwithstanding the continued killings in Kashmir. There have been some meticulous write-ups in the columns of Urdu Jang written in the historical backdrop.
     I personally feel that some window-dressing in the relations will show up until the signing of CTBT and other such documents when the arm-twisting from the West led by the USA will stop The music will start again. Kashmir? Forget it.
     
     QSA Akhtar
     Houston, Texas
     
     
     
156. Indeed, the Lahore Summit may pave the way for reducing tension between the two countries; but it will be too naive to expect an immediate solution of Kashmir. After all, a thousand-mile journey begins with a single footstep. It is in the interest of both the countries that they should resolve their conflicts amicably so that they can focus on issues like population explosion, poverty, corruption, law and order situation, international debts, terrorism, deteriorating infrastructure etc. Surprisingly, none of the leaders have taken into confidence their opposition parties or rather the entire nation before preparing an agenda for the summit. The conflicts between the countries are so complex and sensitive that without the support of their opposition parties or the entire nation no peace can be achieved but may lead to more political instability.
     I would request the Prime Ministers to instruct their party leaders and member parliamentarians to refrain from making political statements to gain support for their parties. If anything will be achieved through the course of negotiations it should be viewed in the interest of the country and not for the party. The time is ripe to get the issues resolved through negotiations and this can only be achieved by viewing the things in today's perspective and not in what was 50 years ago. Both countries should change their previous positions if they wish to achieve anything, as nobody can afford to lose much.
     
     S. Alam
     Germany
     
     
     
157. I very much appreciate both Pakistani and Indian governments for taking this big step to come closer. I don't want to comment on how India is or how it has treated Pakistan in past and vice versa, for a person in my position I see that because of the marred relations between these two countries, the whole region is under turmoil. Foreign companies are not willing to invest, people turn their back as soon as they hear Pakistan or India (in business terms). Consider these two nations at peace with each other: we can save a large chunk of our budget, call on foreign investments, attract multinational companies, and so much more. It would not only be for us but also for India. If everyone here is in a win-win situation then obviously every logically-thinking person will appreciate the current move for reconciliation of Pakistan and India.
     
     Anjum Iqbal
     Singapore
     
     
     
158. Sorry to say, Mr. Nawaz Sharif should discuss on Kashmir issue first. I feel that if the Kashmir issue is solved then all other several small problems will be solved automatically and easily.
     
     Ahmad Nadeem
     Saudi Arabia
     
     
     
159. The whole nation is disappointed over the declaration signed by India and Pakistan at the end of the visit by Indian Premier Atal Behari Vajpayee. This was a golden opportunity missed by both the sides to sign on the CTBT (Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty) during the summit meeting. It is also noted here, that last September both the sides committed before the United Nation Organisation to sign on the CTBT. The visit of the Indian Prime Minister received much publicity but it failed to move ahead in substance. It must also be noted that when Prime Minister Rajiv Ghandi visited Pakistan on December 30, 1989, following the SAARC summit, both sides had signed the non-attack on each other's nuclear facilities agreement. This was the
     first substantive agreement between India and Pakistan since the signing of Simla Agreement in 1972. It is very deplorable that Nawaz League also had to withdraw its unfounded criticism of the Simla Accord in the declaration signed by the foreign secretaries. I also supported an idea of Ms Benazir Bhutto, to announce South Asian Economic Free Zone.
     
     Sardar Nabeel Gabol
     Member CEC PPP & Ex-Deputy Speaker Sindh Assembly
     Karachi.
     
     

Back Issues | Currentz Issue
The News International