Judging the present war of words between India and Pakistan on the foreign secretary level talks to be held in New Delhi, only a miracle can make them successful. The problem is not just that Pakistan is insisting on a composite dialogue whereas India wants terrorism to be the focal point of the talks. At the same time, Pakistan is trying to convince the world that its diplomatic skill has compelled India to climb down.
India's Alleged Interference in Balochistan
It is quite ridiculous for Pakistan to want a successful dialogue and also have the liberty to raise any issue like Kashmir, distribution of river waters, and India's alleged interference in Balochistan during the talks. Pakistan seems to be preparing for a wrestling bout rather than a dialogue. Right now, it is difficult to predict what kind of atmosphere will prevail during the talks and what issues will be raised. However, what is promising is that India has apparently abandoned its defensive attitude.
If Pakistan wants to add to India's problems on the pretext of discussions it is imperative for India to adopt the tit-for-tat policy. There is no other alternative. Even if Pakistan professes to want the Kashmir issue to be solved on priority basis, frankly speaking, Pakistan is least interested in settling the matter. Pakistan has been trying to corner India on the excuse of Kashmir only due to its weak diplomacy. Rightfully speaking India should have isolated Islamabad on the issue of Occupied Kashmir. After all, it is Pakistan that has forcefully occupied part of India's territory.
Basic Change in Kashmir Policy
India should now at least make a basic change in its Kashmir policy, which will convince the world that Pakistan is the obstacle in solving the Kashmir issue. If this is not done, Pakistan will continue to mislead the world by comparing Kashmir with Kosovo, Palestine etc. Instead of being accountable for the Kashmir problem, Pakistan has been acting arbitrarily on Occupied Kashmir, which is highly inappropriate.
Terrorist organizations have complete freedom there. Activities of Chinese companies in Occupied Kashmir are a problem that should be raised not only before Pakistan but also at an international level.
Pakistan's Discomfiture
As a matter of fact, every issue that will add to Pakistan's discomfiture should be raised. That is essential since Pakistan is demonstrating a diplomatic bias instead of heading toward a solution of problems. India should not hesitate to convey to the world that having a dialogue with a prejudiced Pakistan is sheer waste of time.
The dialogue, which is to be held between the countries, might please Pakistan and satisfy the United States. However, India is unlikely to gain much from the same.
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