It's Time To Grow

Since the subcontinent was divided on religious grounds 60 years ago in 1947, two generations of Indians and Pakistanis have suffered war, political intrigue and poverty fuelled by the burgeoning cost of defence.

The third generation however is already looking back at the relationship of these two countries and as soon as they find their voice will say "Enough!"

A day after both India and Pakistan celebrated their independence day with a lot of pomp and colour, it has not escaped me that the bogeyman rhetoric that they have both used against each other in the past 60 years has now been softened to discuss the winning of peace.

Look at the history of the sub-continent and you will find that they have fought two wars over the Kashmir issue (1947 and 1965) and that bone of contention still looms large. They also fought two other wars in 1971 and 1999 and skirmished in 1985, 1987 and 1995.

To make matters worse, a third force now makes the situation even more complicated and almost past resolution.

The idea of a lasting peace is not just music to my ears but also to the millions of young sub-continentals who would rather have an excellent education and a decent economically-fulfilled life than a horrible war which will resolve nothing.

Many of these live in the UAE and a cross-section have voiced their concerns and their hopes (see pages 6-7). Simultaneously two former army generals who have fought two wars against each other have sat down like true officers and gentlemen (in Dubai) to discuss a positive future relationship for their nations (see page 8).

I find it absolutely amazing that ordinary civilians of two warring nations like India and Pakistan can celebrate the beginning of their path to peace in Dubai.

However, although dialogue is a good first step, the leaders of both countries should shake off their lethargy and speed up the process.

They have had their conflicts which has brought some change but that is not enough. It is time to grow and grow together for a full place in the comity of peaceful, economically-fulfilled nations.

Nirmala Janssen
editor@alnisrmedia.com
www.xpress4me.com/letters