India Declared MNF—A Dream Come True
By Riaz Ali Toori
04 November, 2011
Countercurrents.org
Without cordial relations between Pakistan and India, peace in the Asian region would always remain a dream but can never translate into reality. Trade is the only thing on both sides of the border through which both nations could come in close contact. We know that war is not the solution for any problem and we have realized that in sixty and more years, war, exchange of harsh words and blame game have not been good for both countries. The “Trend of Hate” though deeply entrenched in the public of both the countries does not mean we cannot overturn the situation.
An historical move was made when on October 2nd in the meeting of Federal Cabinet of Pakistan, it was decided that “India is the Most Favored Nation (MNF) of Pakistan for Trade”. The decision has come at a time when terrorism in the region has strengthened its hold and the religious fundamentalists love to hate India. Similarly, within India, Hindu fanatic organizations and their followers do not favour amicable relations between India with Pakistan. But the Pakistan’s government led by Pakistan Peoples Party defied all the challenges and told the public on both sides that it was time to switch the “Trend of Hate” into “Trend of Love”.
The decision to declare India MFN was neither simple nor easy for the democratically elected government as it was fighting its war against terrorism in tribal areas and other parts of the country. It is a noteworthy step initiated by Pakistan to enhance bilateral ties between the two countries that had fought two major wars and many minor rifts. The move is a good omen demonstrative of reconciliatory relations between two nuclear-powered neighbours.
Lawmakers, diplomats, businessmen, human rights activists and peace lovers on both sides have welcomed the Pakistani decision expressing hope that it would not only enhance trade between the two countries and the region but also prove a milestone in confidence-building between the two nations as well and pave the road towards resolution of all fundamental conflicts.
Appreciating the government’s decision, Pakistan’s Ambassador in United States Mr. Hussain Haqqani says; “Afghan Transit Trade Agreement & MFN for India are important steps towards reorienting Pakistan from martial to mercantile state”.
Many experts are of the view that Pakistan’s decision of MFN status for India would not only contribute towards enhanced trade relations between the two countries, this important initiative would change the public’s sentiments of hatred for each other and would empower the region ensuring peace in the region.
MNA Ms.Farahnaz Ispahani the Presidential Adviser applauding the decision of her party’s government remarked that we needed peace in the region, the only thing that could encourage trade and thus empower the region, beat terrorism, fight fanaticism and boost Pakistan’s economy. She further said, “It is an historical and long awaited decision that will have a positive impact on our economies and strengthen ties between Pakistan and India."
Famous columnist and expert on economy Ms. Huzaima Bukhari opined: “It is a positive move by the Government of Pakistan that should have been taken a long time back. We need to follow the example of European Union and try to strengthen the region. This move would definitely help to boost the trade and industry of both countries”.
Baqir Hussain Syed an expert from tribal areas says “For many it may be a compromise on the major conflict of Kashmir but for the sane it is a wise reciprocal step taken by the Government of Pakistan to boost economy in the larger interest of the country”.
For a long time, both the countries have experienced enmity but got nothing out of it. Since 1947, both countries have been at loggerheads, which have bred nothing but poverty, unemployment, terrorism, instability and everlasting catastrophes. Why are we incapable to understand that the division of the Sub-continent was not to fan hate mongering but to live in peace?
What did we reap in the wars of 1948, 1965 and 1971- nothing but loss of lives, fast deteriorating economy and instability of the region.
We must realize now that geographically, socio-economically, culturally as well as religiously no two countries of the world have so much in common as India and Pakistan.
Only bilateral trade and commercial ties between India and Pakistan can bring the two countries closer and engage in shared interests. With growth in business ties, both countries would work for the political and economic stability of each other and would certainly refrain from becoming part of any activities that could be harmful to regional peace. Trade can shun fears of war, ensure stability in the region, lend a hand in stemming terrorism and expand the scope for a solution to the Kashmir dispute.
Public and governments on both sides now should reject the culture of hate, blame game and stand united for the sake of regional peace and security. It is high time that this region is subjected to the much-needed prosperity that only peace and love can guarantee and the day is not far when the whole world would see a happier, progressive and prosperous Asia.
Riaz Ali Toori is a journalist from Parachinar. He can be reached at @RiazToori
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