Saarc and Pakistan

Paradoxically, Mr. Khan (Chicago) wants a peaceful and democratic resolution of Kashmir problem but he thinks democracy is no good for third world countries and people are not ready for it. That shows how people contradict themselves without realising it. Mr. Khan's blanket statements about third world countries are incorrect and disrespectful towards the masses of third world countries. There are plenty of third world democracies that are functioning and taking deep roots into the traditions of those countries. I don't think people would appreciate Mr. Khan's pooh-poohing their achievements. I have no doubt that many Pakistani people would love to have a real democratic government than military people telling them what is good for the nation. Needless to say, President Musharaf has not wiped out all the corruption or looting from Pakistani society.

If democratic system is good for developed countries, why can't it be great for poorer countries? "What's good for the goose is good for the gander"! I truly believe in it!

No doubt that China has done great without being democratic but with the same breath many other communist countries like Cuba and North Korea have dismally failed. But the true Chinese potential will never be materialised until Chinese people are allowed to think freely!

Saarc is the only organisation that we have. It may not be perfect but it can be improved with sincere engagement of all the countries. We can easily stop talking to each other and fight for another 50 years, or do right by making the subcontinent a peaceful place.