Towards Better Indo-Pak Ties

Towards Better Indo-Pak Ties
http://www.navhindtimes.in/opinion/letters-editor-308

A FEW days ago, in his speech in Karachi, Mr Nawaz Sharif surprised Pakistan and probably the whole world by urging Pakistan to stop treating India as its biggest enemy calling for a ‘reappraisal of ties’ with New Delhi. Coming from an ex-PM of Pakistan, that was really a breath of fresh air. If Mr Sharif can persuade Pakistan to change its anti-Indian mindset, that day would be written in the letters of gold! It is time Pakistanis realised that their only genuine (and best) friend is India. I really admire his courage and statesmanship in making such a bold and against-the-current statement that could lead to a new golden era of mutual friendship. India has always extended a friendly hand towards Pakistan. I sincerely hope that Pakistan extends its hand of friendship towards India. Is Pakistan ready for reciprocal action? If it wishes to be friends with India, the first thing it should learn to do is refuse dole. For development of its economy and basic infrastructure, Pakistan could take loans but it should refuse to take aid in any form. Borrowing and repaying is the best policy as it is without any strings attached. Moreover, India has no interest in occupying any Pakistani territory that genuinely belongs to Pakistan. Also, if India and Pakistan decide to bury the hatchet, where would it leave the “Pakistan-China “all-weather” and “forever” friendship? Its friendship with China is based on the outdated “enemy’s enemy is my friend” principle. Going by our own “Hindi-Chini-Bhai-Bhai” friendship, the Chinese come when invited (and even when not invited) and remain “forever”. That is what their definition of “forever friendship” is. So if Pakistan wants simultaneous friendship with India and China, it would need a lot of mutual “insulation”.
K B KALE, Jakarta