New Initiative for India-Pakistan Peace
“In a commendable move, two leading media groups in India and Pakistan – the Times of India and Jang group, respectively -- have joined hands to support the peace process in South Asia,” says Asia Society Bernard Schwartz Fellow Hassan Abbas. “The initiative is called ‘Aman Ki Asha: Destination Peace.’ The Times of India and Jang’s The News both published editorials last week making a case for the need for peace between the two countries and endeavoring to look ‘beyond the confines of a 62-year-old political boundary to the primal bonds that tie together the two peoples.’ Ordinary people of both the countries have been yearning for such a direction, but hawkish and extremist elements on both sides have succeeded in derailing the peace process in recent years. South Asian media can play a constructive and influential role in this sphere, and this project deserves recognition and support of the Western media.”
“However, simultaneously, the military commanders of the two countries indicate different priorities. First, the Indian army chief, General Deepak Kapoor, said India was ready to battle Pakistan and China at the same time – and Pakistan’s army chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani responded in a similar tone, saying that his forces were aware of the threat from India and were fully prepared to meet it. This unwarranted public airing of views is damaging for the prospects of peace in South Asia. Hopefully, the private sector in both countries will be able to change the discourse and they will define the future of peace in the region.”
Hassan is in New York. To arrange an interview, please contact the Asia Society communications department at 212-327-9271 or [email protected].