A Train of Hope

In fact, Mr Vajpayee during his tenure as foreign minister of India took commendable endeavour to normalise the relation between the two hostile countries who fought three wars against each other. Of course, there were many opportunities to draw a conclusion and achieve a winwin position during Tashkent and Simla declaration. But every time, politicians and diplomats were committed to crisis management and intentionally avoided a long lasting solution. Even now, General Musharraff, who fought the Kargil war has taken this soft approach to get a diplomatic advantage since he realised the extent of terrorism in Pakistan after the attacks on his life. A few critics feel that this might be his way of winning the confidence of the super power and buy some time to get himself ready for next advantage. Similarly, Vajpayee might also has taken the approach of reconciliation in view of the ensuring general election to win the heart of 18 crore pro-Pakistanis living in India.

It is obvious, secretary level meeting, going to take place shortly, shall not be able to evolve a way out to resolve such a long disputed problem. However, the train of hope that carried the message of compromise could be a reality, provided a super power plays active role of umpiring in the background. The possibility of settlement appeared to be a visible one in view of the remarkable change in the world scenario.

Leaders of all Saarc countries may consider involving themselves somehow or rather to make this mission of train of hope a realistic one this time to uphold the spirit of Saarc and peace in this sub continent.