New Geopolitical Equation in Asia

After the dramatic announcement of killing of Osama Bin Laden, a big change in the geopolitics of Asia has become evident centering the dilemma in the relations between Pakistan and the United States. Through this incident, signals are being received regarding a visible role of China and a shrink in the influence of the United States in this region as a split has been created in the relationship between Pakistan and the United States. The plummeting in the Washington-Islamabad relations first came to the limelight through the arrest of a US contractor Raymond Davis, who is known as a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) spy, for his involvement in the killings of two Pakistani citizens. After languishing for three months in prison, Raymond Davis was freed in March with the payment of blood money.
Since then, it was being thought that the US pressure on Pakistan would be mounted. Exactly this happened. Subsequently, the United States claimed that their commandoes have killed Bin Laden in a raid. Pakistan has described the raid as a blow to its sovereignty. However, the United States has brought an allegation against Pakistani intelligence agency for providing shelter to Bin Laden. Though a number of questions have surfaced centering this raid -- whether Bin Laden was really killed in the attack or he was killed much earlier or anybody else was killed in the name of Bin Laden.
War on Terror
Centering this incident whatever it might be -- the actual Bib Laden killed or no -- Pakistan is trying to come out of the influence of the United States, a long time friend of that country. Within 15 days of the killing of Bin Laden, Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani visited China. The Chinese leaders categorically announced that Pakistan has significant contribution to the war on terror. This country is also a victim of terrorism.
The Western countries must show their respect to the sovereignty of Pakistan. The Chinese leaders further announced that Beijing will consider any attack on Islamabad an attack against it and China will always stand beside Pakistan. This announcement from Beijing in the face of an intense pressure from the west was not only a matter of ease for Islamabad, but a clear indication that China support Pakistan at the time of difficulty.
Building Gwadar Port
Massive steps were taken to enhance military relations between China and Pakistan during this visit of Gilani. The area of cooperation also includes transfer of military technology side by side with military assistance. China has assured Pakistan of supplying more than 50 JF Thunder Aircraft within a shortest possible time. In addition, the two countries have reached an agreement on purchasing frigates for the navy and training on operating submarines. Seventy-five percent arms of Pakistani Armed Forces comes from China. Very soon 260 Chinese fighter planes will be added to the Pakistan Air Force. It is being though that Pakistan is going to be a member of Shanghai Cooperation from an observer at the behest of China. And this might add a new dimension to China-India relations in the coming days. During Gilani's visit to China this time, the most important military on the agenda was the proposal of setting up a naval base at Gwadar Seaport, built on assistance from Beijing.
China and India have long been involved in a race for expanding influence in the India Ocean. Comparatively India navy is now stronger in the India Ocean. It can be said India has its hegemony on the sea. An intensive relationship of cooperation of India navy with the US Navy has been added to this. China has to import its fuel oil from the Middle East through the narrow strata of Malacca under the India-US naval surveillance. During any adverse situation the India-US naval power may close down this supply route for China. Alternative sea routes are very essential for China. Beijing is going to be achieved this opportunity this time completely. Gwadar seaport has multifaceted military significance. Virtually this port will be the main center for China to maintain its influence in the southern seacoast of Asia. From there China will be able to maintain its surveillance on the Indian and US Naval Forces.
Gwadar Seaport is very close to the seacoast of Oman. The distance of the Persian Gulf from here is not so far. Before 1958, Gwadar was under Oman. Later, the area was handed over to Pakistan. In 1973, US President Richard Nixon visited Pakistan. During the visit, the then Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto requested Richard Nixon to help building a seaport at Gwadar. Bhutto proposed that Pakistan would ensure benefit of the US Navy from Gwadar if the port was built with assistance from his country. But Nixan did not make any response to that proposal.
Failing to get any support from the US for building the seaport at Gwadar, Pakistan did not abandon its plan in this regard. Later, they sought helps from China in this regard. The work on building the seaport began in 2002 with assistance from China. China invested $200million for construction of the seaport. The first phase of the construction of the port ended in 2006. Singapore Port Management Authority was given the responsibility of running the port. Now China will be given the responsibility of running the port from Singapore Port Authority. A decision has been taken to review soon the port management by Singapore Port Authority.
The work on establishing direct road and railway communications with China from Gwadar seaport has begun so that oil tankers could be transported to Chinese territory from the port. China began the expansion of road network on Karakoram Highway from Gilgit in Pakistan to Xinjinag province of China. In 2006, Islamabad and Beijing signed agreement to build a road from Kashgar in China to Abbottabad in Pakistan. The two countries took the decision of constructing an alternative land route in consideration that Karakoram Highway might be risky for bigger containers. Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari visited China in July 2010. During his talks with Chinese President Hu Jintao, a decision was taken to set up 3,000 km railway line from Kashgar to Gwadar.
Security experts believe China will use this port equally both for civil and military purposes. Chinese ships will not anchor at the port only, but its submarines use the same as a base. In a recent report by New Delhi-based Institute of Defense Studies and Analysis said this port is a threat to India. Gwadar Port is very close to Hormuz strata. During any adverse situation, Pakistan might impose restriction on this route. However, Beijing will be able to conduct a complete surveillance on Indo-US naval maneuverings in the Arab Sea and Persian Gulf.
Pressure From Western Countries
Both the United States and India are worried over this strategic and military cooperation between Pakistan and China. Many people think the conflict between the CIA and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is rooted in the relations between China and Pakistan. It seems that the US has toned down to Pakistan as Islamabad successfully played the China card in face of relentless pressure from the Western countries.
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made a surprised visit to Pakistan along with Admiral Mike Mullen, then chairman of the Joint US Chief of Staff. Hillary announced that the United States will continue its cooperation and the war on terror with Pakistan. So long the United States has been alleging that Bin Laden had been hiding inside Pakistan with helps from Pakistani intelligence officials. But during her visit to Islamabad, Hillary said she did not believe top Pakistani official knew about the hiding of Bin Laden in that country.
The US security adviser has already announced that Washington's assistance to Pakistan will not be stopped. The US concern has started unfolding at a time when Pakistan is set to go under the total influence of China.
Despite conducting drone attacks inside Pakistan to eliminate the Taliban militants, the United States has been holding talks with the Taliban at the mediation of Turkey. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) officials have already held meeting with mid ranking Taliban leaders. Recently, former NATO official and former foreign minister of Turkey Hiqmat Setin said that Turkey was going to hold high level talks with the Taliban soon.
It is being observed that the United States contact with the Taliban still exists. However, Pakistan has been made the target of the Taliban. Questions have now been raised from inside Pakistan about the motive behind the recent attack on Pakistani naval base in Karachi and destruction of two naval surveillance aircraft. Whether any special message is being given by this type of attack. It has become clear from the nature of the attack that the target of the raid was to hit the military strength of Pakistan. A section of the mass media in Pakistan has alleged that those who have been conducting this type of attack in Pakistan in the name of the Taliban have special links with the US and Indian intelligence agency.
Pakistan's Military Cooperation with China
However, India has already expressed concern over Pakistan's military cooperation with China. Following the claim of killing Bin Laden at Abbottabad by the US force, a hint was given from New Delhi that India might conduct similar attack on Pakistan. The reaction shown by Pakistan in response to that desire of New Delhi is another cause of concern for India. Pakistan made it clear that if India dared to conduct such raids Islamabad will limited scale nuclear weapon or tactical nuclear arms. It was not so long known that Pakistan has such sophisticate nuclear arsenals.
At the same time, India plunged into another diplomatic difficulty. India handed over a list of 50 terrorists residing in Pakistan to Islamabad authorities and demanded their extradition for trials. The following day reports were published in the Indian newspapers that two of the listed terrorists detained in Indian prisons. Indian wanted to mount pressure on Pakistan in line with the United States, but they himself got entangled in trouble. And as a result, the image of India was tarnished.
After the killing of Bin Laden, the competition launch between the United States and China for expanding influence centering Pakistan gives a signal of a new strategic equation of the Asian superpowers. Iran has also joined the race. Iran has already expressed its solidarity with the integrity of Pakistan. It is being thought that Pakistani military officials have been maintaining contacts with Iran.
Importance of Islamabad
Except China, Pakistan has taken initiative of enhancing cooperation with Russia. President Asif Ali Zardari had already visited Russia. He was given a rousing reception in Moscow. The new relations of China and Russia with Iran and Pakistan could turnout to be a big concern for the United States in future. This will make the position of US-led NATO force in Afghanistan weak, and also deal a blow to the US initiatives of establishing control over the energy resources in Central Asia. In addition, Russia, China is also enhancing its influence in the Central Asia. A cooperative relation between China and Pakistan will help Beijing to make another step forward in expanding its influence in this region. Because of road communication with Central Asia and port facilities, the importance of Pakistan has increased. Despite multifaceted pressure from United States and acts of sabotage inside the country, Pakistan is playing the cards of its good relations with China and Russia because of its geostrategic position. And this is the main weapon of Pakistan. Because of this it is very easy to criticize Pakistan, but difficult to avoid.

Bangladesh Asks India Not To Make Comments Affecting Bilateral Relations

Bangladesh-India relations in the recent years reached a new height. The two sides will have to exercise caution in making such comments that might hamper the relationship. Bangladesh on 3 July sent such a message to India in the wake of a recent controversial comment made by Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Various diplomatic sources said that Foreign Secretary Mijarul Quayes on 4 July at a meeting with Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Rajeet Mitter, at his office here highlighted this stance of Bangladesh. Foreign Ministry sources said Rajeet Mitter was summoned to the ministry to join the 3 July meeting. The meeting lasted for about one-and-a-half hours.
Existing Diplomatic Practice
On the question whether Rajeet Mitter was summoned to the foreign ministry in the line of the existing diplomatic practice, the foreign secretary said that the 4 July meeting was pre-scheduled. Virtually this meeting was held to discuss the arrangements of India Foreign Minister S.M. Krishana’s visit to Dhaka. In reply to a query whether the statement of Dr Manmohan Singh came up for discussion during the talks, the foreign secretary neither confirmed the matter nor rejected.
When Rajeet Mitter was asked to comment about the meeting, he advised the newsmen to contact the foreign secretary in this regard. Diplomatic sources indicate that besides Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna, Home Minister P Chidambaram and Water Resources Minister Salman Khurshid will visit Dhaka in the next couple of months. Under the above circumstances, both the sides have remained vigilant to avoid any misunderstanding or complexity that might arise out of that comment of Manmohan Singh. Under this context, Bangladesh has expressed its concern to India.
Meanwhile, Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bishnu Parkah, in his twitter account (social communication network on the internet), said Rajeet Mitter met Mijarul Quayes on 4 July 2011 to discuss the preparations of S.M. Krishan’s upcoming visit to Dhaka. He commented that the reports published in the mass media about summoning Rajeet Mitter are imaginary. Indian news agency IANS reported this.
Meanwhile, diplomatic sources in Dhaka and New Delhi told this correspondent that the visit of Indian foreign minister will be not deferred due to the comment of Manmohan and shutdown in Dhaka. But some changes will be brought to the visit schedule. S.M. Krishana arrived in Dhaka on 6 July on a three-day visit.
No Need of Statement
Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Mijarul Quayes believes that there is no need of making any comment about the remark of Manmohan Singh following the statements of the Indian Foreign Ministry and Indian high commission in Dhaka. When asked comment on the media report that the Indian high commissioner was summoned to the foreign office in the wake of Manmohan’s comment, the foreign secretary said, “You ask the newspapers about the news item publishes. There is nothing to question me.”
Mijarul Quayes said: “It was a pre-scheduled meeting. The meeting virtually discussed the proposed visit of Indian foreign minister. His visit still remained unchanged. The meeting discussed possible change in the visit schedule. I hope we will be able to inform you about the matter in a day or two. The meeting also discussed the documents that will be signed during the visit of the minister.”
Bangladesh’s Political Landscape
When asked whether the recent comment of Indian Prime Minister that 25 percent people in Bangladesh have support for Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and this people are extremely anti-Indian and the political landscape of this country could be changed anytime came up for discussion during the meeting, the foreign secretary said: “I am not confirming or denying the matter. I have already told you that the meeting discussed the details of preparations of the Indian foreign minister’s visit.”
Asked about the comment of Manmohan about Bangladesh, uploaded on t he website of Indian Prime Minister’s office, Mijarul Quayes said “Has he told this? I have not received the official version you are speaking about. I have seen the statement of Indian foreign ministry and release of Indian high commission in Dhaka.”
On a question whether he is happy after seeing the two statements, the secretary said, “Not only satisfaction, after witnessing the two statements I find no reasons for giving any explanation in this regard.”
On 29 June 2011, during exchange of opinion with some Indian editors, Manmohan Singh said, “25 percent people in Bangladesh are supporters of the Jamaat-e-Islami and they are extremely anti-Indian. The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) on different occasions hatched various conspiracies centering them. And as a result, the political landscape of Bangladesh could change anytime. That news was released on the website of the office of the Prime Minister of India. But later it was withdrawn from the website following creation of debate in both India and Bangladesh. A spokesman of the Indian Foreign Ministry on 2 July said: “Manmohan made the comment ‘off the record’ and it was not his evaluation about Bangladesh.”

David Headley Trial in Chicago Court

Approximately166 people, including a Rabbi of the US origin, Gavriel Noah Holtzberg, and his wife Rivka, were killed in the Mumbai attacks of November 2008. The relatives of this Jewish couple filed the case of the murder of their dear ones in a Chicago court. In addition to Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, the US court summoned various people including the incumbent and former heads of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Among them, the US citizen of Pakistani origin David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana are particularly mentionable. Both are in the custody of the US officials since the end of November 2009 on the charge that they were planning terrorism act in Denmark after publication of caricature of the Prophet Muhammad in a Danish newspaper. Both are in their 50s. Tahawwur is Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin. He spends most of his time in Chicago and is known as a businessman.
Smuggling of Narcotics
The matter of David Coleman is, however, different. David, who was born to a former Pakistani diplomat and US mother, was named as Dawood Gilani at the time of his birth. He changed his name to David Coleman Headley during his visit to Mumbai in 2006. His deeds were not good since the beginning.
He has been an informer in the US Drug Enforcement Administration in 1990s, where got addicted to the heroin and he also remained involved in the smuggling of narcotics. Because of his skill of sweet talk and cleverness, he is expert in getting close to any organization or agency. In addition to Pakistani agencies, he also hoodwinked some terrorist organizations. He has also been playing games of cleverness in his family life. He kept many wives at the same time and has been defrauding them so much so that his own children too have not been safe from his craftiness.
Implement Plan of Attacks
Headley is the start witness in the case of the Jewish couple who were killed in the Mumbai tragedy and is trying to also hoodwink the court by narrating his tittle-tattles. Sometimes his tales seems to be a scene of any thriller movie, e.g., he stated that to implement the plan of attacks, in 2006 he had gone to Mumbai where he used to conduct surveillance of the port onboard speedboats s that he could find a suitable place for landing of the attackers. He developed acquaintance with the top social circles of the city to avoid his detection by the agencies. He particularly developed relations with the people of film industry, which proved to be a good cover. Headley claimed that the Mumbai attacks were result of collaboration between the ISI and Lashkar-e-Taiba and he has been in contact with Major Iqbal of the ISI in this regard. A GPS devise was used for selection of a suitable target and in addition to Taj Mahal Hotel, the headquarters of Shiv Sena was also paid special attention.
As they say that falsehood has no feet, Headley became contradictory during the next day court proceedings in spite of all preparations and sketching of a scene. When he faced cross-questioning on his statement of accusing the ISI, his tongue slipped and he said: "I cannot say something with certain." When the question was asked with further explanation whether he wants to say that the ISI head or its senior leadership was not involved in this incident? Headley at once replied: "Yes, sir." This statement of Headley is very close to the stance of Pakistan. Islamabad has been saying from the very first day that the Mumbai tragedy had not support of the ISI or any other government agencies in any way, if some nonstate actors were involved, nothing could be said.
Adventurism and Falsehood
The worthlessness of the mentioned case being heard by a US court is also being felt by the US media. Questions are being raised about the double, triple rather four-tier personality of Headley that the adventurism and falsehood of such an untrustworthy person cannot be allowed to influence the Pakistan-US relations. According to reports of The Washington Post and Newsweek, this case can have long-term impact on the already strained relations between Pakistan and the United States.
Headley also left no stone unturned in implicating his childhood friend Tahawwur Rana. He accused him of providing him (Headley) a cover, delivering messages and providing logistic support for actions in Mumbai and Copenhagen. It is vigorous effort of Headley to buy freedom and life for himself by scarifying his childhood friend but the circumstances are not on his side. If a thief acts for 100 days, the housemaster also has one day to catch him. It seems from the situation that now craftiness would not work for him and he would definitely meet his fate.

Pakistan-China Friendship: Gilani Visits Beijing

Reiterating friendship with Pakistan during the recent visit of Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, China warned in clear terms that the international community should respect integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan and should not forget its contribution to the war on terror. China has announced to supply 50 JF-Thunder warplanes to meet Pakistan's defense requirements. It has also announced 700 million yuan as aid for reconstruction of the flood-affected area and 100 million yuan loan on soft terms. It has signed nine memorandums of understanding in banking, trade, industry, agriculture, information technology sectors, and implementation on Saindak projects.
Strained Pakistan-US Relations
The announcement and the agreement that China made during the visit of Prime Minister Gilani, where he met his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao regarding Pakistan's defense and economic assistance are the outcome of the everlasting Pakistan-China friendship that has become a strong bond over the past 60 years and it is not in the power of anyone to break or weaken this chain now. The Pakistani prime minister paid visit to China at a critical time when relations between Pakistan and the United States were at their lowest ebb because of the Abbottabad operation and drone attacks. As a result of the US intervention and its strategy to keep Pakistan under constant pressure, and its desire to use the country according to its own will in the so-called war on terror, the Pakistan-US relations have become strained.
Since it was impossible for India to remain silent in this situation, it also started hurling threats to Pakistan. The Indian Air Force chief first issued a statement that his country can launch surgical strikes in Pakistan in self-defense. At the same time, India unleashed a propaganda campaign against Pakistan. In their separate statements, Indian Defense Minister A.K. Anthony and Home Minister P. Chidambaram strongly criticized growing relations between Pakistan and China, China's unilateral announcement about Pakistan's defense, and defense agreements. They announced to counter it by enhancing their (India's) defense preparedness. India's criticism of Pakistan-China relations and announcement to enhance its defense capabilities under the pretext of growing relations between China and Pakistan makes it clear once again that India wants to become mini-super power of the region. It has full support and patronage of the United States in its ambition and the defense and strategic agreements concluded between the United States and India during the visit of the US President Barack Obama to India last year are a clear proof in this regard.
This is a scintillating reality that China is a time-tested friend of Pakistan and Pakistan's integrity and stability is the cornerstone of China's regional strategy. However, as General (retried) Hamid Gul, former chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence, has said, that in spite of being deep and close friend, China will not fight for us because it is against the foreign policy and strategy of China.
Difference between China and the United States is that the Untied States neither follows any principle or international regulation for its interests, nor does it refrain from landing its troops in any region or any country. Similarly, clandestine acts in all the concerned and important countries, through CIA under preplanned objectives and targets, are also an important part of the US policy. On the other hand, China has neither committed flagrant aggression in any part of the world despite all sorts of international pressure and expectations, nor any report about China's clandestine activities came to light. In the backdrop of this clear situation, expectation on the part of the Pakistani rulers that China will physically come to the assistance in case of any possible the US or Indian aggression will be tantamount to committing suicide.
Similarly, China's economic policy is also crystal clear. China does gladly extend technical assistance and manpower to friendly countries but making a country beggar in the name of aid is not part of its economic policy. Since China's economic and political system has its foundations in communism, and since making weak segments and countries economically and financially strong is its prime objective, China always supported Pakistan in such projects that may help it stand on its own feet. According to reports, when Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani requested for immediate financial aid in view of financial deficit and fiscal hardship in the next budget, the Chinese leadership turned down this request with great love and politeness saying giving cash contribution (alms) to friendly countries is not part of China's financial policy. Since the Pakistani rulers have developed the bad habit of getting direct financial aid from the United States, the United Kingdom, World Bank, and the IMF on stringent conditions, and now that these institutions have hinted at stopping aid to Pakistan after the Usama Bin Ladin episode, and some severe conditions are being attached, for further aid, the Pakistani rulers, as usual, tried to steer the drowning boat of country's economy to safety by visiting China. However, like a good and genuine friend, China gave it the recipe of getting rid of the aid once and for all and expressed the desire to assist through investment instead of giving cash aid.
China's Support to Pakistan's Sovereignty and Integrity
It is the impact of the way, in which the Chinese leadership expressed it friendship with Pakistan in clear terms in the current testing time, like the past, that India did not take much time to change its harsh tune against Pakistan. The same change can be seen in the statements of the US leadership. The United States had persistently been talking to Pakistan in threatening tone until clear and emphatic announcement by China but once the Chinese stance came to light, many US officials, including Hillary Clinton, have stated that Pakistan had no knowledge, at official level, about the presence of Usama Bin Ladin in Abbottabad.
Similarly, the visit of Senator John Kerry and Marc Grossman, US special envoy for Pakistan and Afghanistan, to Pakistan immediately after Prime Minister Gilani's visit to China, and formal announcement about launching joint operation in future indicates that the Chinese announcement to declare Pakistan's sovereignty and integrity as cornerstone of its foreign policy played an important role in pacifying the US outrage and anger.
Lesson for Pakistan From China's Progress
Doubtless, China is our time-tested and all-weather friend but it is unfortunate that neither we learnt any lesson from China's progress and everlasting friendship nor did we make any meaningful planning to achieve self reliance. Despite excellent relations with China at official and government-level, attention was never focused to promote people-to-people contacts in t between the two countries.
Since all personal interests of our aristocracy are linked with the West and the United States, we are tied in bonds of friendship with China under strategic compulsion but unfortunately, despite all out friendship and sympathies of China, the hearts of our aristocracy throb in unison with the west and the United States in spite of their threats and deceptions. This is the very basic reason that in spite of all sympathy and sincerity on the part of China, everlasting relation of friendship could not be established between the people of Pakistan and China that should have been established.
Demand of Situation
Time has come for Pakistan to stand on its own feet and break the begging bowl of the West and the United States and make model of China's progress our ideal. By doing so, Pakistan can start journey on the great highway of progress and prosperity.
For this new journey, Pakistan will have to promote our political, defense, economic, and commercial relations with its neighbors and genuine friendly countries like China, India, Iran, and Turkey on priority basis instead of its distant relatives such as the United States and the United Kingdom.

US To Reconsider Anti-Terror Policy After Osama's Death

In the aftermath of the killing of Al-Qaida chief Osama Bin Laden well inside Pakistan, this country would find it very difficult to answer several queries. Pakistan's sincerity in taking action against the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack, in particular, remains a significant question in India. Pakistan had denied Usama's presence on its soil, but when it joined the global war against terrorism by putting everything at stake, the international community was left with no doubt about the sincerity of its army and Inter-Services Intelligence.
Campaign for US Presidential Elections
The US military has killed Osama Bin Laden close to Pakistan's capital in an area considered to be extremely safe and secure. This extremely secret action is being termed a major success. US President Barack Obama announced that the most dreaded terrorist of the world has been killed. This may serve him very well in his election campaign for the second term. Yet, one should take note of the worry behind his announcement, whether following Usama's killing the terrorist network spread far and wide would be wiped out.
Following the 11 September 2001 attack on the United States, the country took the extreme measure by carrying out an invasion on Afghanistan and turning it into a heap of ruins. At that time, in December 2001, the United States had announced that Osama Bin Laden had been killed in Tora Bora hillocks in Afghanistan. Later, former US President George Bush and Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf repeatedly claimed that Usama had been killed in similar actions. With the latest announcement of Usama's death and jubilation over it by Americans, the lid on the secret is off. The entire world dreaded Usama extremely.
Concerted Campaign Against Osama
It was the United States that had launched a concerted campaign against Usama, who was considered to be a hero in the Islamic world. Yet, terrorism continued to raise its head in different forms. A conscientious group in the world regards US military actions as the greatest acts of terrorism. Al-Qaida or Osama Bin Laden had carried out actions to teach a lesson to the West only, which spread terrorism in the name of Al-Qaida or Usama. In anti-terrorist actions, it appeared that the United States has earned a license to sacrifice human lives. It is on the basis of this license that it carried out actions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other Islamic countries.
Yet, the silence of those who call themselves to be champions of humanity is surprising indeed. It is also meaningful. The very same world, which justifies Israeli terrorism in Palestine and the latest acts of terrorism indulged in Libya by the United States and its allies, is now heaving a sigh of great relief after Osama Bin Laden's killing. This relief may not last long for the United States and its allies. This is because those who raise their voice against oppression, tyranny, and excesses, are never alone. The United States believes that by killing just one individual, Osama Bin Laden, it has achieved its goal, and is jumping and springing in jubilation. Should that jubilation remain, the world may get the message of peace. But it is necessary to assess the might of those forces that spread the network of Al-Qaida so that the jubilation at Usama's killing may not turn into a major tragedy.

Peace and Stability
US President, Barack Obama has got the credit of killing the most wanted person, Osama Bin Laden, during his presidency. At the same time, he should take note of the factors that helped Al-Qaida network to emerge with a bang. Undoubtedly, the number of those who were attracted by the ideology of Usama and Al-Qaida has largely declined in the world. Even in the Islamic Arab world, people no longer raise the slogan of 'Long Live Usama' and carry his photographs with the same enthusiasm as they earlier used to show. Yet, the strength of those who shout 'Death to the United States' has not dwindled either.
Obama need to seriously ponder why some groups who want peace and stability in the world hate the United States and raise the slogan 'Down with the United States.' It is also his moral duty to condole the deaths of those who have lost their lives at US hands. All peace-loving people in the world, including those in the United States, who had committed the blunder to raise and strengthen a formidable force of Taliban in Afghanistan during the 1990s against the former Soviet Union should also ponder over this. The opinion gaining ground about Pakistan's Inter Services Intelligence or Taliban at the international level has been further fortified by Osama Bin Laden's killing. India's stand has also got a fillip with regard to the Mumbai terror attacks. There is need that the United States and its allies should give up their partial line of action in eliminating terrorism.

India-Pakistan Cricket Diplomacy

Soon after the finalization of the 2011 ICC World Cup Cricket semifinal match between India and Pakistan, political activities got escalated. Negotiation between home secretaries started and there was a consensus on certain issues. At least because of cricket, some progress took place, otherwise there was a stalemate.

The impasse was because of Pakistan's non-cooperation and India's insistence on stoppage of terror acts before talks. How terrorism has infiltrated and infected the Pakistani culture, its elimination before opening up the dialogue was not possible, hence Pakistan was procrastinating. Now the deadlock seems to be broken and the parleys will go ahead, to solve the old problems.

Pertaining to Extremism

It has been agreed that visa procedures will be made easier by setting up joint working group and a hotline will be established between home secretaries to exchange quick information pertaining to extremism. The parleys have been assessed as positive as both countries have resolved to extirpate terrorism and the permission has been granted to Indian Investigation Commission to visit Pakistan. In turn, Pakistan was informed about the progress in the Samjhauta Express investigations. This means efforts are being made from both sides to neutralize terrorism.

The secretary level talks have paved way for the prime minister-level talks. It was the wisdom of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to invite Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani to witness the match, which was largely welcomed.

Mental Bankruptcy

The tension between the countries will start decreasing while the two prime ministers will watch the match together on 30 March. This will be the occasion when representatives of the two countries will be seen together in a mirthful atmosphere, though this will not be a good omen for bad wishers.

The reason extremist Hindu organization, the Shiv Sena, has criticized Mammohan Singh by saying that if he has so much love for Pakistan then he should have invited and sent two tickets to Ajmal Kasab and Afzal Guru in prison, to watch the match sitting beside them. This statement of Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Rawat proves his mental bankruptcy.

Hindu Terrorists' Involvement

Its politics is based on hatred and aversion. Earlier, there were reports of Shiv Sena's discreet association with Pakistan's intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence. Some names were mentioned, though not confirmed. If investigations intensify about Hindu terrorists' involvement in blast cases, more facts may crop up.

The flurry of the Shiv Sena may be the result of its apprehension that the two sides will neutralize the terror network. Like the Shiv Sena, in Pakistan also there are elements who do not like Gilani's visit to India. They also apprehend such dangers. However, peace-loving common people of both countries are happy with the move. May God keep the evil eye away.

Pakistan, China Sign Defense Agreement To Enhance Military Cooperation

The first defense agreement between Pakistan and China was signed in the 1950s and the cooperation between the two countries has risen sharply ever since. A new bilateral defense agreement to enhance cooperation has been signed between Pakistan and China recently, which has taken the cooperation between the two countries to new heights.

Chinese President Hu Jintao had rightly said that Pakistan-China friendship is loftier than Himalaya and deeper than seas. Pakistan's former President Muhammad Rafiq Tarar further added, 'and sweater than honey'. In the current tough situation, when the cowboy US government is using a new tactic to put pressure on Pakistan to 'do more,' the visit by an 11-member delegation from China led by Defense Minister General Liang Guangile and signing of the bilateral defense cooperation agreement comes as a relief to Pakistan amid the US growing pressure on Pakistan after Faisal Shehzad's failed attempt to blow up the Times Square.

Under this agreement, the three armed forces of Pakistan and China will hold joint military exercises. Not only will China provide four trainer aircrafts and 60 Million Yuan to Pakistan but it has also agreed to support Pakistan's stance on all the international forums. In addition, China has assured to continue to provide military and economic aid to Pakistan. The Chinese delegation said that not only are Pakistan and China good friends and neighbors but also dependable allies; the relations between the two countries are based on trust. China hailed Pakistan's role, sacrifices and practical efforts in the war against terror.

It must be remembered that a delegation from China had also visited Pakistan at the time when General Deepak Kapoor, Indian chief of Army staff, had threatened that the Indian military is capable of confronting both China and Pakistan at the same time. India tried to curb the significance of this statement, but since he has been made the head of a strategic planning division, it can be said that this statement was issued on the behest of the Indian officials. The purpose of this visit was to convey this message that Pakistan is not alone in the region; China and Pakistan are two hearts, one beat. After this, India and its masters calmed down. US Foreign Minister Hilary Clinton sat down with Shah Mehmud Qureshi for talks.

Cooperation on Military Projects
At present, Pakistan and China are cooperating with each other on various military projects. They are jointly working on a project to manufacture F-17 planes, which are said to be much better than F-16s. However, France has stopped providing some vital components of late. France has always stabbed us in the back and it didn't let go this opportunity as well. Australia also didn't stay behind, but the Australian military delegation is now on a visit to Pakistan. In addition to manufacturing F-17s, Pakistan and China are also working on a F-22-P frigate project and the first frigate, which is called PNS Shamsheer, has been included in the Pakistan Navy. The inclusion has further strengthened Pakistan's naval strength.

Prior to the Chinese delegation's visit, China had announced to provide two atomic plants to Pakistan, which will be installed in Chashma Barrage's second and third section. America didn't like the idea, however, it remained quiet considering its state in Afghanistan. Hilary Clinton didn't raise this issue during her visit to China; however, she wanted China to agree to sanctions against Iran in exchange.

Pakistan's Atomic Program
Atomic experts have objections over the decision to provide atomic plants to Pakistan, calling it a violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation (NPT). However, they also say that America too violated the NPT by signing civil atomic agreement with India. This is the reason why China provided atomic plants to Pakistan to make it clear that if the United States can do something, why cannot China?

The history of atomic cooperation between Pakistan and China is very old. According to reports, when the United States had imposed sanctions against Pakistan's atomic program, China provided Pakistan with 50 kilograms of weapon grade uranium and several tonnes of uranium hexafluoried, which is used in centrifuge. It is also claimed that Pakistan conducted its first nuclear test on the Chinese soil and that it was China that provided atomic design to Pakistan. However, in my opinion it is mere propaganda as the design is purely Pakistani and there is a huge difference between the two designs, i.e., Pakistani and Chinese designs.

US Presence and Growing Pressure
The military cooperation between Pakistan and China is expanding and hence America's attempts to contain China are intensifying. America has established five military bases in India, including one is the Ladakh Region of Occupied Kashmir (Indian-administered Kashmir). Likewise, there are seven US bases in the Wakhan corridor in Afghanistan from where all kinds of activities are carried out against China, ranging from spying to terrorism. In addition, the United States is using Japan, Australia, South Korea and Taiwan against China.

Now the only area where the United States doesn't have a base to surround China is Pakistan's Khanjrab Area. The US desires to establish a military base here. However, Pakistan will not allow the United States to do so. Over a year ago, a conference was held in China with regard to this matter. Ahsan-ul-Haque, former head of the ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), foreign secretary and former joint chief of the Army staff, was also preset on the occasion and the Chinese had openly asked him how sovereign is Pakistan under the US presence and growing pressure in the light of the present apprehensive circumstances.

Pakistan had assured the Chinese officials that Pakistan is sovereign to the extent that it won't become a part of any conspiracy against China. The Chinese accepted this assurance and the relations continued to strengthen. The Chinese Interior Ministry's recent visit to Pakistan confirms this fact.

India Must Remain Prepared To Country Lashkar-Trained Taliban Attacks

With the recent arrest of two suspected terrorists by the Mumbai Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), the conspiracy to blast places in Mumbai has been foiled. This is certainly a big success. Both terrorists are residents of Mumbai. The maps of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation's (ONGC) tank, Mangaldas market of South Mumbai, and Thakkar Mall of Borivali have been recovered from them. The plot was to carry out blasts at the above places.

Pakistan's Terrorist Group
According to the ATS, both terrorists were in contact with some "uncle" in Pakistan and they were trying to carry out the plot at his behest. It has also been said that both terrorists have received training in Pakistan. It has not been ascertained to which Pakistani terrorist group they are linked to, but it is not difficult to guess.

The needle of suspicion only points toward the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba (LeT). It has threatened to carry out 26/11-like big terrorist attack on Mumbai. Intelligence sources also have been issuing warning.

Suicide Attacks in India
In Gujarat also one terrorist has been arrested. He is said to be linked to the Hizbul Mujahidin. He used to brainwash the youth and send them to Pakistan for training. After the plot to attack Mumbai has been foiled, the country would have to remain even more alert. The threat of terrorism continues. Pakistan-sponsored LeT has released its modules all around India with the help of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), who are spread across the country. We would have to crush these traitors at home.

Reports are also received through the intelligence sources that the LeT is training Taliban terrorists, who have surrendered before the Pakistani Army, for carrying out suicide attacks in India. At the instance of the Pakistani Army, the LeT is training the Taliban for suicide attacks in India. In fact, it would be a serious challenge for our security system, but we should be prepared to deal with the same.

Bangladesh May Turn Hostile to India With Change in Power

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's son Tariq Rehman is said to be involved in smuggling of arms. These arms being sent to United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) insurgents were confiscated. According to the Bangladesh Government agency BSS, Hafizur Rehman (involved in the biggest arms smuggling racket of Bangladesh so far, in 2004) has admitted before a court that he had met ULFA leader Paresh Barua along with Tariq on 1 April 2004 at Hawa Bhawan, the office of Khaleda Zia's party Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Corruption and Criminal Charges
The Daily Star, a daily published from Dhaka, wrote in its 8 February edition that on 2 April 2004, Hafizur Rehman admitted the involvement of some officials of National Security Intelligence (NSI), Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), and Chatgaon Urea Fertilizer Company Limited (CUFCL) in the attempt to smuggle 10 truckloads of arms. At that time, Khaleda Zia's BNP and Jamat coalition was in power. In his interrogation Hafizur Rehman said that Paresh Barua left him outside and went inside Hawa Bhawan to meet Tariq. Tariq is currently the vice chairman of BNP and is embroiled in corruption and criminal charges. He is in London these days for treatment.

Amid allegations of hiding facts by Khaleda Zia government, the previous government supported by the Army had ordered reinvestigation into the Chatgaon arms case two years ago. After the reinvestigation, several high-ranking intelligence officers were arrested, including two former Army officers.

The Accused
According to the Daily Star, two former director generals of NSI, Major General Razakul Hyder Chaudhary and Brigadier General Mohammed Abdur Rahim (both retired), were arrested by Bangladesh CID in connection with the Chatgaon arms case. The others accused were former Director (Defense), Wing Commander (retired) Sahabuddin Ahmed, former Deputy Director (Technology) Major (retired) Liaqat Hussein, NSI Field Officer Akbar Hussein, former CUFCL Managing Director Mohsin Talukdar, and General Manager (Administration) Iqramul Haq.

The other side of Tariq Rehman's story is that during the BNP rule, he was not only the most powerful politician, but also the contact person of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for operating anti-India activities. This means that the nexus between infamous DGFI, NSI, ISI, and ULFA would have continued if Tariq Rehman's story had not emerged.

Hasina's India Visit
During Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's recent visit to New Delhi, she promised that she would not allow her country's soil to be used against India. This gives strength to the hope that people like Tariq Rehman and Paresh Barua would not be able to run their campaign against India from Bangladesh, but for how long?

What happens when BNP comes to power again? This means that despite the honest intentions of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh would continue to be a headache for India.

Cross-Border Narcotics Smuggling More Dangerous Than Infiltrators

With the acceleration in the activities of Pakistan-based terrorists, a spurt has taken place in smuggling of fake Indian currency and heroin and infiltration from across the border. Owing to the existence of the strongholds of Al-Qa'ida and the Taliban on either side of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, opium cultivation and its by-product heroin is flourishing as a major illegal industry, which is the biggest source of financial support to these militant organizations.

Extending Monetary Support
There are also news reports that the Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and military are extending monetary support to these Pakistan-based militant organizations out of the income from narcotic products. Ever since the times of Ziaul Haq, Pakistani military officials are filling their pockets from the smuggling of heroin. According to a report of the US Secretariat of State on the international narcotics trade, smugglers push heroin to Europe enroute India.

For quite some time the Afghan and Pakistani smugglers have been pushing large quantity of heroin in collision with Indian smugglers. It is amply evident from the arrests of smugglers and recovery of huge catch of heroin at the border.

Recent Events
On 3 March: In Ajnala sector the police seized heroin worth Rs. 50 million ($1 million) from a woman smuggler and her accomplice Pammi.

On 5 March: Heroin worth Rs.2 million ($40,000) was recovered from four smugglers at Ajnala. In Tarn Taran, police carried out a raid and seized heroin worth Rs.5 million ($100,000) from smuggler Paramjit Singh.

On 6 March: At Bathinda, police seized from a gang of smugglers opium and smack worth Rs.50 million ($1 million).

On 7 March: The State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar, seized heroin worth Rs.50 million ($1 million) from three smugglers in the Khemkaran sector. Some of these smugglers suffered 13-year imprisonment for heroin smuggling.

On 13 March: Heroin valued at Rs.25 million ($500,000) was recovered from the possession of a smuggler at Chheharla.

On 18 March: Border Security Force personnel shot a Pakistani smuggler at Jalalabad area falling between the police post of Jodhewala and S.S. Walia, who was making an infiltration bid and seized from him heroin worth Rs.13 million ($260,000) and Rs.1.8 million ($36,000) fake Indian currency, apart from arms and ammunition.

On 18 March: In Amritsar, a smuggler was arrested by the state special operation cell. His name is Tehal Singh.

On 21 March: In the Amritsar sector the state Special Operation Cell after an encounter arrested five smugglers and recovered heroin valued at Rs.1.30 billion ($26 million), and one 30 bore pistol from their possession.

At Jaisalmer, the Narcotics Central Bureau seized heroin worth Rs.50 million ($1 million) from two Maoists traveling on the Inter City Express. They identified Ghani Khan and Ananad Singh who brought the contraband from Pakistan.

Infiltration by Militants
These are the consignments of heroin that were recovered by the security forces, police and intelligence agencies. In addition, there must be a large quantity of narcotics that could not be recovered. This smuggled heroin is far more dangerous than the infiltration by militants from across the border.

The infiltrator is either killed or sooner or later is killed or arrested by the police or he finds his way into the prison. But, heroin, smack and opium are such dangerous drugs that are winning the youth. Because of the addiction, they tend to indulge in crimes such as loot, robbery, etc.

Worrisome Aspect
Al-Qa'ida, the Taliban, the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba, and other terrorist organizations buy arms and ammunition with this money got from the sale of narcotics. Militants active in India also are receiving financial support from the income of smuggled narcotics through hawala (informal transaction of money) transactions. With the arrest of a couple of Maoists in the Jaisalmer sector, another fresh chapter has been added to the smuggling activity. The Naxals also have adopted smuggling as a source of income.

Another worrisome aspect of heroin smuggling is that heroin cannot be pushed into the country without the complicity, collusion, and cooperation of local smugglers as also complacency of the security forces and police. Police officials and security forces are also turning corrupt. It has, therefore, become imperative to check smuggling of heroin and to ensure that the accused are given stringent punishment. There is also the need to make necessary amendments in relevant laws to wipe out terrorism.

Withdrawal of US Forces From Afghanistan May Put Pakistan at Risk

The tragedy of the Pakistani rulers and leaders is that while in power they say something and after being ousted from power they go abroad and their rhetoric undergoes a change. When Benazir Bhutto was the prime minister, she often issued "anti-India" statements and like her father, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, she had been harping on the Kashmir issue.

While in power she never uttered a world against hardliners and fanatic elements that dominated the whole of Pakistan. After losing power, she lived abroad on deportation. She would tell the media in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Dubai that normalization of relations between India and Pakistan was extremely imperative for peace in South Asia. Prior to the last elections in Pakistan when she returned home, she addressed foreign journalists and said she was extremely critical of militants, describing them as fatal for the region.

Present Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, during his foreign tours, made similar statements against the Taliban and other extremists. But when back in his country, he gives "anti-India" statements and blames India for terrorist activities and gives a clean chit to the main conspirator of the Mumbai attack, Hafiz Mohammad Saeed.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is the only Pakistani ruler who perceived the ground realities and took practical steps to improve relations between India and Pakistan and invited former Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee to Lahore. A resolve was taken to settle the Kashmir problem and other bilateral issues through talks. But Musharraf, who was the Pakistani Army chief, started the Kargil war and upset the peace efforts.

Support to Militant Organizations
Former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf captured power through a military coup. He instigated the Taliban government in Afghanistan and extended patronage to Al-Qa'ida and other anti-India organizations during his term as Pakistan president. The attacks on the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly and the Indian Parliament were carried out during his term.

The Pakistani intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), extended full support to militant organizations and the Taliban in Afghanistan were provided directions by the Pakistani military officers. Then, Musharraf's intention was to achieve access to the Middle East via Afghanistan. Yet, his game was spoiled due to the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington. He was constrained to join the global war on terror when Bush reprimanded him. Under the UN pressure, he had to rein in militant outfits. But, even thereafter, Musharraf continued to play double games.

While the ISI and the Pakistani military bolstered the Taliban, organizations such as the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba went on with their activities by changing their names. Musharraf remained in a mode of denial of the existence of militant training camps on the Pakistani soil and the infiltration along the border with India, but simultaneously went ahead with bolstering militants. So far so, Musharraf received US aid to the tune of billions of dollars. It was during his term that the leaders of the United States and other countries of the world termed Pakistan as a nursery of terrorism.
Change of Power in Pakistan
Finally, in the wake of change in power in Pakistan, Musharraf had to flee to the United Kingdom and now the possibility of his return to Pakistan is ruled out. After meeting journalists in foreign countries, Musharraf has now realized the stark reality and in a statement in Washington recently, he said, "President Obama Barack administration has reportedly planned to withdraw forces from Afghanistan within a year but there is no truth in that.

For peace and stability in the region it is imperative to defeat the Taliban and the continued presence of the US forces is extremely essential to crush the Taliban there." It is the first time that Musharraf has spoken the right thing in no uncertain terms.

Taliban suicide attacks in Afghanistan are causing huge loss of life and property. If the US and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces withdraw from Afghanistan without the elimination of the Taliban and Al-Qa'ida, the very survival of Pakistan and Afghanistan will be jeopardized and peace and stability in the region will be shattered, thereby creating a serious threat to the whole world.

Need To Distinguish Between Accused, Culprit in Militant Cases

The arrests made in Gujarat and Maharashtra endorse the plea that Kashmir is not the sole target of terrorist organizations. The entire country is on their monitor. Few days ago, renowned scholar of international terrorism and peace, Astle Talice, said that the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba's (LeT) target is not only Kashmir but also the whole of India and the final goal of this militant organization will not be achieved with the resolution of Kashmir problem.

Goal of Militant Organization
The Pakistani military regimes and elected governments nurtured the LeT with a view to keep the Kashmir issue alive and burning. Now, the targets of these terrorist organizations have undergone a change and now it has gone out of control of the Pakistani Government. Its base in Pakistan has been fortified more among the Sunni sect of southern Punjab rather than Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The LeT intends to expand its strength in Pakistan. It advocates and supports every possible strike against India. It carries out terrorist activities in Kashmir with the support of non-Kashmiris. Likewise, a change has taken place in the mindset and structure of other militant organizations. The militant organizations once functioning under the patronage of the Pakistani Government have now turned so much arbitrary that they are waging fights simultaneously in Pakistan and outside the same.

As many as 500 explosions took place in Pakistan in 2009, in which were targeted police, military, the intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and other government establishments and institutes. In such a state of affairs the arrests made in Gujarat and Maharashtra raise several serious questions.

In the wake of every terror attack the government talks in terms of fortified intelligence, efficient surveillance system and reliable investigation. The need for effective coordination is underlined in order to intensify war on terror from the local to the international level in addition to plugging the loopholes in the security mechanism. The setting up of a strong network is demanded in order to establish the apprehensions of terror strikes or prove them baseless.

Objective of Security Agencies
In the existing scenario the main objective of security agencies is to prevent terrorist attacks. Democratic and human rights organizations pose the question why innocent people become victim on the pretext of war on terror? These organizations often emphasize that the investigation should be transparent and court procedures should be conducted in a transparent manner.

In the existing situation even a minor lapse becomes the cause of fatal attacks. Hence, security agencies are not in a position to run massive risk.

Firm Coordination Required
If a firm coordination is maintained and ensured from the lowest to the highest level and intelligence is shared with the use of modern equipment then the security agencies can achieve success in dealing with the apprehensions of the terrorist attacks. Terrorist strikes can be prevented and innocent people can be saved from the onslaughts of apprehensions.

World history bears testimony to the fact that lapses and excesses of security agencies aggravate the problem. The government and security agencies should ensure that the investigation should be transparent and democratic rights of the arrested accused and their human and legal rights are availed of appropriately by them. A distinction should be made between the accused and the culprit.

High-Level Pak-US Strategic Dialogue

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has stated about high-level Pak-US strategic dialogue that the United States will provide $125 million assistance to Pakistan. Moreover, the United States has also assured Pakistan cooperation in thermal power projects and giving Pakistani goods access to US markets. She has stated many others areas of cooperation and assistance.

Dialogue's result depends on General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, Pakistan Army chief's negotiations. He is at the back. Kayani is sincere to people and the country. Some segments feel only General Kayani and General Ahmed Shuja Pasha, ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence) chief, are being given importance in Washington. According to sources, General Kayani's wife, son, daughter and daughter-in-law are with him in Washington. General Kayani is busy in Washington dialogue while the family is residing in New York.

Satisfied and Confident
"Official wedding procession" has arrived in the United States with a long list of demands. The Wall Street Journal claims a list of 56 pages has been handed over to Obama administration. The bridegroom from Pakistan is Shah Mehmud Qureshi while the United States considers General Kayani as the bridegroom. Efforts are on to tie new knots to the old relations. Amendment to the democratic system is also being deliberated. Wedding customs have formally started. The most interesting character among the hosts and the guests is General Kayani.

Warm welcome accorded to General Kayani by the US officials and media gives an impression that the Pakistani Government does not feel threatened during General Kayani's tenure. The United States feels satisfied and confident in negotiating with Pakistan Army. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmud Qureshi is the bridegroom in Pakistani delegation. However, the United States has wedlock with Pakistan Army. Finance Minister Ahmed Mukhtar, a participant in the dialogue, has secondary importance. Some segments believe that traditional dialogue between Pakistan and the United States is being portrayed as strategic dialogue in order to befool people.

Importance of Talks
The process of dialogue between the government's wedding procession and the "US Empire" is mere eyewash. Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari government's supporters and opponents are busy in comments and discussions while the Pakistani community in the United States does not attach any importance to this dialogue. They say Pakistan neither was nor will be free to make its own decisions. Pakistan ahs always been governed by the Army. Democratic governments are nothing more than puppets.

The Pakistani community feels that the Army is supporting the incumbent regime as well. Some segments feel that General Kayani enjoys the same status as generals of yore enjoyed in Pakistan. Only a dictatorship and dictatorial democracy in Pakistan suits the United Stats. The incumbent government has come to power, apparently, through peace's votes. However, it is looking for scaffoldings to complete its term. Pakistan has an elected president as well. However, the real force comes from the Army and Army is considered synonymous with the United States. The segment, weary of Army and the so-called democratic regimes feels that the Army has very cleverly taken advantage of civil government's weakness.

Interference in Pakistani Politics
The United States considers the civilian government corrupt and inefficient whereas the Army is carrying out successful military operations, is arresting wanted terrorists, cooperating fully with the United States in war on terror. That is why Army is the focus of this dialogue. Simply put, the bride is not being wed with the bridegroom. The Pakistani delegation's body language shows that Pakistan's democratic government is feeble while the general is strong. Corrupt and dishonest government can never look straight into the US and Indian eyes, while the military bigwigs can look clearly through the US glasses. The US interference in Pakistani politics is as customary as oil and Henna are in wedding ceremonies. The ruler, whoever he might be, has to follow the rules; otherwise he will be sent packing.

The "villain" is closely looking at the Pak-US relations, especially the meetings. India is not willing to retreat any front including the important issues like nuclear deal with the United States, the water, Kashmir and Afghanistan issues. India is a US friend as Pakistan is. There are limits to implementation on Pakistan's wish list.

However, the Indian friendship is preferred. India has reservations over General Kayani's protocol and his inclusion in the dialogue. Pakistan believes that India wants to weaken the Pakistan Army, diminish its power and pride. However, the United States has different designs. Hillary Clinton said we have talked about developing Pakistan Army on modern footings. The United States has friendly relations with both Pakistan and India. Clinton said we cannot pressurize India over water issue in Pakistan.

India To Continue Reconstruction Work in Afghanistan

Afghanistan and India do not have a common border today. A third country, i.e., Pakistan is now dividing them. But there was a time when that country was an important part of the ancient Indian empire. According to eminent historians, the Aryan culture spilled over to India's mainland from here. Later, it also became the center for spreading Buddhism.

Strengthening Old Ties
Thousands of years have passed since then. The situation in the subcontinent has changed drastically. India-Afghanistan friendship is reaching new heights.

However, conditions in Afghanistan turned from bad to worse after its separation from India. It became a toy in the tug-of-war of foreign powers. Totally ruined after being treated as a playground by the United Kingdom, the United States, and Russia, it faces the greatest threat today from Pakistan, which handed over this country to a monster like the Taliban. As a result, Afghanistan has once again become a war field.

Removal of Taliban
The Taliban rule in Afghanistan has been overthrown. Yet, its remnants are still creating trouble. International effort is continuing to reconstruct the country destroyed by the Taliban. India is playing a leading role in it, much to Pakistan's chagrin. Pakistan leaves no stone unturned to obstruct this work. The Indian Embassy there has been attacked several times as part of this plot. Places where Indians involved in the reconstruction of Afghanistan reside have become special targets. The hands of Pakistan's notorious intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), in these attacks have also been exposed.

Time and again, Pakistan has gone all out to reveal its dislike for India's presence in Afghanistan. But despite all threats, India is not prepared to shirk away from its responsibility toward its neighbor. It has spent more than Rs.2 billion for providing facilities like schools, roads, hospitals, and electricity in the country, thoroughly devastated by the war.

Main Responsibilities
It is said that more than 4,000 Indians are helping to make the country self reliant at enormous risks to their lives. The Afghan Government is quite cautious about the security of Indians, but it has its own limitations. In this situation, the Indian Government is also sending its security forces there.

The very sights of Indians delight Afghans today, whereas they are allergic even to the mention of Pakistan. That is why India must adhere to its task of helping Afghanistan, despite all odds. No direct gain might seem to be derived from it. Yet, by carrying out its obligation, India may play a crucial role in foiling Pakistan's terrorist conspiracies. One of the main responsibilities of India is to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a terrorist grazing ground.

Tense Situation in Kashmir Calls For Redeployment of Withdrawn Troops

As soon as the summer season sets in, snow starts melting in the Kashmir valley. And infiltration accelerates through the passes in the border region, mounting the threat of terrorist attacks. Recently, militants attacked the military and security forces, killing few soldiers and officers. In the retaliatory operation by the army and security forces, many militants were killed and huge cache of arms and ammunition were seized.

Dismantling Militant Infrastructure
Defense Minister A.K. Antony stated recently that even today 42 terrorist training camps are being run and Pakistan does not intend to dismantle the militant infrastructure. Pakistani rulers and anti-India elements are intolerant of peace that has of late returned to Kashmir. The moderate factions of the Hurriyat Conference are making efforts for the establishment of lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir through talks due to which unrest is growing among the handlers of militants in Pakistan.

Syed Salahuddin, chairman of the United Jihad Council in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, holding out a threat to separatist Kashmiri leaders said, "They should modify their modus operandi and resolve their differences, failing which the command of the struggle being waged in Jammu and Kashmir will be taken over by militant organizations. If the militant organizations, especially the youth felt that because of the differences among separatists their sacrifices will go waste, then he would himself assume the command of the struggle."

Motive Behind Unrest
Ventilating his ire on the army and security forces deployed in Jammu and Kashmir, Salahuddin asked police personnel in Jammu and Kashmir not to take over the command of the anti-militancy front.

Salahuddin and his associates support leaders of Pakistan-based hardliner factions, Syed Ali Shah Gilani, and his supporters but by voicing his anger against the moderate faction leaders, he holds out warnings to them. The motive behind it is that these leaders should follow Gilani. These leaders killed the chief of the moderate faction Mirwaiz Omar Farooq's father, Maulvi Farooq, People's Conference leader Abdul Ghani Lone and Ghulam Muhammad Mustafa, and his colleagues.

Salahuddin is associated with the hard line organization Jamaat-e-Islami. He contested the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections in 1987 as a candidate of the Muslim Mutihada Mueaz, but lost. He accused the then Farooq Abdullah-led government of rigging because of which he was defeated.

Irked over it, he and his supporters went to the Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Taking advantage of this situation the then Pakistan dictator Ziaul Haq unleashed a proxy war against India by inciting militancy in Jammu and Kashmir through the "Operation Topac." Salahuddin is exploited from time to time by his handlers in Pakistan and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for making him issue "anti-India" statements and for provoking the Kashmiri youth.

Resolving Kashmir Issue
In order to divert the attention of the Pakistani public from issues such as price-rise, terrorist violence and other problems, Pakistani leaders are bringing pressure for talks on India for the resolution of the Kashmir problem and issues relating to the distribution of river waters. The common Kashmiris are fed up with the frequent incidents of violence and bloodshed and, of late militants are not readily reuniting the youth from Kashmir to join their activities.

The threat held out by militant leaders such as Salahuddin to Police is also a matter of concern. The police have been entrusted the duty of providing security at certain places but they do not possess necessary arms and training to take on terrorists who are equipped with modern arms and explosives. Moreover, police are also assigned the duty of maintenance of law and order in the state and a majority of police personnel being locals tend to hesitate to take on terrorists for various factors.

It is, therefore, imperative that in view of the sensitive situation in Kashmir, the military deployed there should not be withdrawn and the military already withdrawn should be redeployed in Kashmir so that the security arrangements could be fortified, lest some fresh major incident of terrorism take place there.

India-Pakistan Dialogue: No Success Achieved Again

Even after conveying its repeated reluctance for talks to Pakistan, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held meeting with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari at Yekaterinburg (Russia) and later with Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani at Sharm el-Sheikh.

In the wake of 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack, India took a clear stand that unless and until Pakistan does not dismantle the terrorist infrastructure on its soil and hand over the conspirators of the Mumbai attack to India, or prosecute them in Pakistan, India will not hold composite dialogue with the same.

Dialogue Process
The process of dialogue with Pakistan was set in after the Lahore bus journey by Atal Behari Vajpayee, who was the prime minister then, and the meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was arranged, but the Musharraf-sponsored Kargil conflict and the army camp in Pakistan dashed all hopes toward this end. Later, the Agra Summit failed and the process of dialogue remained suspended for a long time.
Finally, the talk process could be resumed during the term of Vajpayee as prime minister. After the attack on the Indian Parliament, roads, rail, and air links with Pakistan could be restored. Later, during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's term, the bus service and trade between the two Kashmirs resumed.
Nevertheless, Pakistan from the very beginning stuck to its wont of harping on Kashmir. From the times of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, his daughter Benazir Bhutto, later Musharraf and currently Pakistani leaders persisted with their agenda of harping on the Kashmir issue. Now, under the US pressure, the New Delhi talks at the foreign secretary-level began in the midst of mutual apprehensions and with their respective stands.
Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna maintains that terrorism should be the main issue in the India-Pakistan dialogue. It is a clear stand of the Indian Government that if improvement is to be brought about in the India-Pakistan relations, then there should be an atmosphere free of terror between the countries. However, Pakistan has been constantly trying to avoid the terrorism issue in the dialogue process.

Latest Talks Failed
The visiting Pakistani Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir on 24 February declined to hand over the mastermind of the Mumbai attacks, Hafiz Saeed, to India, saying that it is futile to link the Hafiz Mohammad Saeed issue with the dialogue process. Meanwhile, Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao raised the terrorism issue at the talks with Salman Bashir and demanded the arrest of Sayeed because India has been the victims of terrorism attacks from the Pakistani side since a long time. India also entrusted to Pakistan a dossier of the list of 40 terrorists, but whether Pakistan would make any comment on it, is doubtful.
In connection with the Mumbai attack, Pakistan also admitted in its various documents that the attack was sponsored and launched from Pakistan. The links of the recent explosion at Pune are connected with terrorist kingpins based in Karachi. Not only that Pakistani infiltration is accelerating in Jammu and Kashmir and terrorist attacks are also increasing.

Violating Cease-Fire
In an encounter with militants at Sopore on 24 February, two soldiers and a captain of the Indian Army were killed. The same day, Pakistani troops violated the cease-fire and opened heavy firing in the Samba sector in which one Border Security Force personnel was wounded. Earlier, Taliban in Pakistan beheaded two Sikhs in the tribal area and abducted another Sikh.
A wave of terror has spread among Sikhs living in Pakistan in the wake of such incidents. It is astonishing that whenever India-Pakistan talks are held or take place, firing by Pakistani troops at the border has increased.
Zardari has once again spoken in terms of raising the Kashmir issue in the fresh India-Pakistan dialogue, and told Pakistani Army Chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani that the Pakistani Army was strong enough to face the Indian challenge.
Whenever, any Pakistan leader or bureaucrat visits India, Hurriyat leaders arrive in Delhi to meet him. Hurriyat leader Ali Shah Gilani met Salman Bashir and asked him to raise the Kashmir issue as the main issue instead of river water issue at the renewed India-Pakistan talks.

Neglecting Terror Issue
Keeping in view all this, union Home Minister P. Chidambaram was not optimistic about the talks at the secretary level. The truth is Pakistan is unwilling to realize that terrorism is dangerous for both countries. Although a democratic order exists in that country at present, the fact remains that it cannot do anything without the consent of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the military. These two are the obstacles in the India-Pakistan relations.
This time around, differences cropped up between the two sides. Therefore, no joint statement was issued. Instead, Pakistan raised the Baluchistan issue and things remained unchanged on the whole, and the position is, "they came, held talks, and left."

US-Like Strict Security Measures To Prevent Future Terror Bids

The Pune terrorist attack is another warning to us. This attack raises a question mark on our political leaders' will to fight terrorism and wipe it out. Despite getting all intelligence inputs, why do we not succeed to prevent such terror attacks? Why do we become complacent, considering it our success that there has not been another terrorist attack in one year?
Despite suffering from the sting of terrorism for so many years, why have we not been able to formulate an effective strategy to safeguard the country from such attacks? Why do we not do all that we must do as a nation, be it the government that has to do it, or society, or administration?

Politics of Vote Bank
As long as we do not look for answers to these questions, we would continue to lose innocent lives and keep blaming Lashkar-e-Taiba, Indian mujahidin, and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). But will such attacks stop by merely expressing concern over terrorism, blaming Pakistan, and appointing inquiry committees?
If we have to break the back of terrorism, sidelining politics of vote-bank, all political parties would not only have to formulate effective strategy sitting at the same table, but would also have to implement it. If we have to seek help from the United States or Israel for this purpose, we should not hesitate to do so.

Cooperation Between Federal and State Governments
In all conferences and seminars, there is talk of increasing coordination and cooperation between the federal and state governments to deal with terrorism, but the coordination appears ineffective as before. Allegations and counter-allegations after the attack are enough to expose such relations.
The Home Ministry says that the advisory was sent two months ago about a likely terror attack in Pune. The home minister also does not consider the attack as carelessness of intelligence agencies. Who should be held responsible if there is an attack on the same spot even after sending the advisory? The Home Ministry completed its formality by sending the advisory, but was it the state government that could not take concrete action on that advisory?

Flaws in System
When there was no attack for a long time after the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack, it was taken for granted that terrorist organizations are so busy in Afghanistan-Pakistan that they do not have time to look at India. The Pune attack has falsified this belief. If our preparations are like the present, this is not the last one. On the terrorism front, we would have to be as tough as the United States. As long as we do not remove flaws like relaxation for VIPs in our security measures, the result is going to be the same.

US Rulers Seem Divided on Maintaining Peace in Afghanistan

Afghanistan has never been peaceful for the past long history. At times, the fight among tribal chiefs lingered on and sometimes imperialistic forces occupied various parts of it with the intention of grabbing the remaining territory.
In between, peace prevailed for a couple of decades. One such period was when a pro-Soviet regime remained in power that irked US citizens. They prepared a mujahidin force in neighboring Pakistan and toppled the Najibullah-led government in the wake of its losing the Russian patronage after the disintegration of the Soviet Union. Later, they silently witnessed the rise of the Taliban and fall of the mujahidin. Until then it was an ordinary move of global diplomacy for US rulers.

Changing Face of Action
Then the times underwent a change. Under the patronage of the Taliban regime Al-Qa'ida terrorist organization was raised. Even after that, the US Government failed to comprehend the situation. Realization dawned over it, however, when an Al-Qa'ida-sponsored attack was launched on the World Trade Center in New York. Then, it became a prestige issue for the United States. Then President George W. Bush carried out a military offensive against Afghanistan.
The war triggered by Bush continues to be waged until now. His successor Barack Obama has come to realize that the end of the war is not yet discernible. The coffin boxes carrying dead bodies of US military men arrived in the United States. The unrest in the United States and the problems of the US administration continue. The United States has not succeeded in crushing the Al-Qa'ida and its supporter Taliban terrorists even by chasing them right up to Pakistan's interior.
In such a scenario, the US Government has now opted for talks. Tired of the prolonged war, its allies also now favor talks. The United Nations also is contributing to it. In the ongoing talks, the path of distinguishing the "good Taliban" and "bad Taliban" has been adopted as a part of fresh political tactics. Recognizing Mullah Omar, the Taliban chief, as a partner of Osama Bin Laden, he is being kept at a distance from the talks. Foreign Minister of the then Taliban regime, Wakil Ahmed Muttawakil, has been recognized as a symbol of "good Taliban" and, hence, has been released from prison. The talks will focus on how far Muttawakil is different from the rest of the Taliban.

Maintaining Peace
Earnest people across the world favor maintenance of peace in Afghanistan. But, US rulers do not seem to be united on this point even at such a juncture. Its direct evidence is that in order to pave the path for talks the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) once again is being used as a contact factor, which until a week ago was described by US rulers as the main contention.
The US investigators projected the links of David Headley, the prime accused of the Mumbai attack, with an ISI Major as responsible for the attack. If they proceed further with the talks through the same ISI mediation, then only good wishes can be offered.
Meanwhile, India is being kept aloof from the whole process. India has to its credit a major contribution to the rehabilitation work for Afghanistan after the widespread bloodshed caused there. A member of Indian engineers, offices, and laborers laid down their lives during the reconstruction of the country. All this has been forgotten. All this service notwithstanding, the Indian Government has agreed to extend cooperation.

Role of India
It is astonishing that Pakistan has been involved in the talks in spite of the fact that it pays less attention to its due responsibility than using the occasion against India. Its rulers are daily issuing statements that the Indian Government intends to target Pakistan by strengthening its position in Afghanistan. Earnestness is not a one-way traffic.
The US Administration and its allies should understand the fact that the entire India would tolerate its exclusion from talks, but if Pakistani rulers persisted with their approach of abusing this process also, then it will not be possible for it to keep silent. While this cannot be expected of Pakistan realizing the stark reality, countries extending patronage to it will have to comprehend the ground situation.

US Call For India's Initiative To Improve Ties With Pakistan

The Jihadists (crusaders) who were sponsored by the United States to fight and defeat the Soviet Union in the mountainous Hindu Kush state of Afghanistan are today themselves threatening the United States as its enemies. The devastation caused by terrorists under the patronage of Osama Bin Laden, once a major ally of the United States, through the 9/11 attack has proved an unforgettable tragedy for it until today.

Gates' India Visit
US Defense Secretary Robert Gates' recent India visit should be viewed in the context of this stark reality. No one can disagree with his observation that if Pakistan and terrorists active under its patronage launched another Mumbai-like attack, then India can feel compelled to carry out a military operation in retaliation. He has also categorically stated that in the wake of the 26/11 Mumbai attack India exercised great restraint. All Indians on that occasion were extremely estranged and demanded the government to take a retaliatory action.
In addition to the United States, Pakistani rulers themselves had to admit that the 10 terrorists who attacked Mumbai were trained by the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba and sent to India under a well-concerted plan. Now, the United States itself has arrested its national David Headley and Canadian citizen, Tahhwar Husayn, both linked to the Mumbai episode.
CBI Charge Sheet
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has framed a charge against both of them wherein they have been clearly stated to have been linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba. It was at the behest of its organizers that they frequented Mumbai prior to the attack. They received funds from it to carry out the attack. The charge further states that a nexus has been forged between the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba and Al-Qa'ida. They are gearing up to cause anarchy and instability not only in South Asia but across the entire world by carrying out terrorist activities.
Pakistan assured India and the world community, particularly its patron like the United States, it will go whole way to destroy the existing terror structure in its country, but it has failed to do so as promised. Gates, who held the post of CIA director before becoming US defense secretary has admitted that the United States and the NATO forces have failed to foil the Taliban offensive because they have set up bases in tribal areas bordering Pakistan, particularly in Waziristan. Things have come to such a pass that a holy nexus has been forged between the Lashkar-e-Taiyiba, Al-Qai'da, and the Taliban.

Taliban Factor
The primary objective of Gates' observations seems to be that the United States failed to fully achieve the Pakistani concurrence to initiate all-out action against terrorists. Neither the elected government led by Asif Ali Zardari nor the Pakistani military is sincere in this regard. The Pakistani intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has been maintaining its ties with the Taliban and the Lashkar-e Taiyiba as in the past. It is still preoccupied with serving its own diplomatic interests through use of their good offices.
The actual motive of Gates' India tour appears to be that India should come forward to improve its relations with Pakistan even under such circumstances and agree to bilateral defense agreements with the United States, but India can ill-afford to agree to it.

Preventing Repeat of Militancy in Punjab

Conditions in the neighboring country, Pakistan, is are from bad to worse and fear of revival of terrorism in Punjab is a matter of concern. Given the recent arrests and recovery of arms and ammunition, the apprehension expressed by the state police chief over such incidents is not entirely baseless. With a view to prove their continued existence and put weight in their plea for political asylum in foreign countries before host governments, militants taking shelter abroad have been engaged in reviving their activities since long.
By issuing provocative statements and feelers from time-to-time, they have made attempts to have a measure of support in Punjab. Despite not receiving much response, certain elements are still trying to revive militancy in Punjab.

Taliban-ISI Nexus
The Taliban and Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), amid the ongoing civil war in Pakistan and increasing contribution by India in rehabilitation and reconstruction works in Afghanistan, are exposing the country to threat. In order to oust Indian entrepreneurs from Afghanistan, the Indian Embassy in Kabul was attacked on two occasions. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces held the Taliban-ISI nexus responsible for both attacks.
In wake of the US shift toward India on the Kashmir issue, militant organizations and the ISI intend to project Kashmir as a pivotal point for peace in the region. After their failure in Kashmir, they now find Punjab as a suitable region for revival of militancy. From the activities of militants living under Pakistan's protection, it appears that pressure on them is mounting to do "something." This pressure is reflected in statements of the Punjab police chief.

Pangs of Terrorism
Punjab suffered pangs of terrorism for one-and-half decades. Thousands of people were killed in the game of bloodshed. A large number of innocent people were subjected to excesses. Memories of false police encounters, unclaimed dead bodies, and ruthless violence carried out by terrorists are still fresh in people's minds. All Punjabi and other political systems should learn a lesson from the atrocities committed during that period of militancy in the state.
Those who displayed sympathy toward terrorists at that time became victim of violence from both sides. They had to face violence of ungrateful militants and police excesses.

Lessons From Past Mistakes
This time around, Punjabis should make it a point not to repeat their earlier mistake. The state government should give timely advice to the police department and issue necessary directions accordingly. The government should direct the police department to conduct themselves with a sense of responsibility. Exercising adequate vigilance, policemen should ensure that innocent people do not suffer again at their hands. It is the responsibility of the Punjab police to block all avenues of monetary support to militants, and sources of supply of arms and ammunition and training.
The drive against smugglers, who supply arms to militants, should also be intensified. After all, prevention is better than cure, and vital. There is, therefore, need for close coordination between the union and state government. The government should explore constitutional remedies to all these issues, which militants can think in terms of their narrow politicizing game. The earnestness on the part of government departments and politicians can save Punjab from the heat of militancy by proving apprehensions of revival of militancy in Punjab baseless.