India's meteoric rise as the world's fifth-largest economy and remarkable economic growth present various regional collaboration and cooperation opportunities. The need for Pakistan to forge closer ties with its economically superior neighbor is becoming more pronounced. Exploring avenues for enhanced bilateral trade, investment, and technology transfer can create a win-win situation for both nations, bolstering economic growth and stability in the region.
However, it is crucial to address the longstanding issue of Kashmir, which has been a central point of contention between India and Pakistan. India's actions in Kashmir, including revoking its special status in 2019, have exacerbated tensions and intensified the plight of the Kashmiri people. To foster lasting peace and stability, a just and urgent solution to the Kashmir dispute must be pursued through diplomatic channels, emphasizing respect for human rights, self-determination, and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The evolving situation in Afghanistan further underscores the necessity for improved Pakistan-India relations. Both nations share a common interest in a stable, secure Afghanistan free from the influence of terrorism. India's increasing assistance to Afghanistan, including infrastructure development projects and capacity-building initiatives, reflects its commitment to regional security and stability. By engaging in constructive dialogue, Pakistan and India can jointly support efforts for a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan, facilitating the region's long-term peacebuilding and economic development.
India's growing closeness with the United States adds another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics. The United States views India as a crucial partner in countering China's influence, as demonstrated by the Indo-Pacific strategy and various maritime cooperation agreements such as the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) and the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA). These treaties enhance interoperability between the Indian and American militaries, allowing for greater cooperation in maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. Pakistan needs to recognize the strategic implications of this partnership and strategically engage with India to safeguard its interests amidst the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Moreover, Pakistan's longstanding strategic partnership with China, epitomized by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has immense potential for economic development, regional connectivity, and infrastructure growth. As CPEC nears completion, Pakistan stands to benefit significantly from enhanced trade, investment, and connectivity. However, it is essential to strike a delicate balance between its alliances with China and the pursuit of improved relations with India. By leveraging its partnership with China to foster stability and prosperity in the region, Pakistan can simultaneously engage with India in meaningful dialogue to address shared concerns and build a foundation for sustainable peace.
Pakistan should consider the following constructive steps to develop closer ties with India. Firstly, both countries need to prioritize diplomatic engagement and create an atmosphere of trust by resuming comprehensive dialogue. This dialogue should include multiple stakeholders, addressing core issues such as Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and trade barriers. Secondly, fostering people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges can help bridge the divide between the two nations. Encouraging educational and cultural exchanges, promoting tourism, and facilitating business collaborations can lay the foundation for mutual understanding and empathy. Thirdly, economic cooperation should be a key focus area. Exploring opportunities for increased trade, investment, and joint ventures can unlock the region's enormous potential for economic growth. Both countries can create a vested interest in maintaining peaceful relations by fostering economic interdependence.
Drawing on historical precedents, an explicit example can be found in the case of Germany and France. Despite their tumultuous history and conflicts, the two countries embarked on a path of reconciliation and cooperation after World War II. They established strong economic ties, collaborated on various projects, and formed the foundation of the European Union. Today, they are prominent examples of how bitter rivals can transform into close allies for the collective benefit of their people and the region. Another notable example is that of Vietnam and the United States. Despite a painful history marred by war, Vietnam and the United States recognized the importance of fostering better relations. They successfully transformed their relationship from adversaries to strategic partners through diplomatic efforts, increased economic cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges.
Taking inspiration from these examples, Pakistan can proactively pursue a similar path by engaging in sustained dialogue, fostering economic interdependence, and promoting cultural understanding. Such steps can pave the way for a more harmonious relationship, benefiting both nations and contributing to the region's peace, stability, and prosperity.
The visits of Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Narendra Modi have brought to the forefront the urgent need for Pakistan to recalibrate its approach towards India. Against India's economic superiority, its actions in Kashmir, the evolving situation in Afghanistan, its burgeoning relationship with the United States, and Pakistan's strategic partnership with China through the CPEC, the imperative for improved Pakistan-India relations become increasingly evident. Resolving the Kashmir dispute expeditiously through diplomacy while simultaneously exploring avenues for economic collaboration will pave the way for stability, peace, and progress in the region. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, embracing a strategic shift characterized by mutual understanding and cooperation between Pakistan and India is essential for shaping a brighter future.