The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Zardari's remarks

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Wednesday, Oct 08, 2008
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Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Zardari's remarks

President Asif Ali Zaradri's observation that India is not a "threat" to his country and that militants operating in Jammu and Kashmir are "terrorists" is the first of its kind by a top Pakistani leader. It is at odds with the traditional thinking in Pakistan's military establishment. For Pakistan to become India's partner, it should stop supporting militant groups operating from its territory, hand over those wanted in India and ensure better people-to-people interaction.

J. Akshay,
Secunderabad

Mr. Zardari's statement marks a watershed change in Pakistan's stance. While it will be interesting to see the reaction of Pakistani extremists and civil society, India must clarify the context in which he made the remark. We are all too familiar with politicians' volte face in the wake of criticism and pressure from their constituency. Mr. Zardari's statement that better ties with India are indispensable for Pakistan's economic survival is a positive development.

Deevakar Anand,
New Delhi

At last, Pakistan has a President who is ready to call a spade a spade. With Mr. Zardari's cooperation, India can work towards finding a solution to the Kashmir imbroglio. With his help, India can put down militants with an iron hand.

M. C. Vijai Shankar,
Chennai

Mr. Zardari's remark will have a positive effect on India-Pakistan ties. His statement, along with his earlier proclamation that the ties should not be held hostage to the Kashmir problem, indicates a paradigm shift in Pakistan's stance.

Lokesh Jangid,
New Delhi

The issue of militants operating in Jammu and Kashmir has always been a bone of contention between India and Pakistan. The militants are motivated by religious extremism. In Mr. Zardari's statement, we have a ray of hope that we can find a solution to the Kashmir problem without paying heed to religious motives. India must ensure that a sustainable, honourable and acceptable solution is found, at the earliest, in keeping with the aspirations of the people of the State.

Neha Singh Yadav,
Gurgaon

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