Former Pak NSA holds confrontation with India unsustainable

September 16, 2011

September 16, 2011, IDSA, New Delhi: former National Security Advisor of Pakistan Gen (retd.) Mahmud Ali Durrani visited IDSA and had interaction with IDSA scholars on the state of India-Pakistan relationship. In his presentation on ‘India-Pakistan Relations’, he argued that there was a need for a paradigm shift in India-Pakistan relationship, from confrontation to cooperation. He held that there was a growing realisation in Pakistan today that confrontation with India is unsustainable and it is not in Pakistan’s interest.

Touching upon various issues between India and Pakistan, he identified terrorism as a common threat facing both the countries and argued that there should be a joint mechanism to deal with this menace. He also stressed the importance of resolving all issues including Kashmir, but held that talks on different issues should be allowed to go at their own velocities and back channels must be employed to deal with intricate issues. He was of the opinion that issues like Sir Creek and Sia Chen would be easy to resolve.

Acknowledging India’s contribution to Afghan reconstruction Gen Durrani backed the idea of India-Pakistan cooperation in Afghanistan in future. He also underscored the need for relaxation of the visa regime to facilitate greater interaction between the people of both the countries. He held that this would help clear mutual misperceptions and build an atmosphere of trust.