In a recent conversation at NHS Media, Barrister Hamid Bishani shed light on the current political situation in Pakistan, including the return of Nawaz Sharif and the state of relations with India.
Key Points
- Individual leaders can play a crucial role in shaping international relations and diplomacy.
- Public perception and narratives have a significant impact on a country’s foreign policy decisions and its relationships with other nations.
- Addressing international conflicts often requires cooperation and coordination among various influential entities, such as governments, intelligence agencies, media, and stakeholders.
Barrister Bishani emphasized the significance of recognizing Pakistan’s shift in its previous policies and its hopes for the future. He expressed the view that Prime Minister Modi of India has no need to engage in strategic games with Pakistan. Barrister Bishani believed that the India-Pakistan relationship is currently at a critical juncture, and India does not need to resort to tricks to promote the peace process. India’s development projects are not hampered by maintaining peaceful relations, making it a win-win situation. Barrister Bishani stressed that the understanding between Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Modi remains intact, as Nawaz Sharif has not taken any actions that would provoke India. The internal matters of Pakistan, including the circumstances surrounding Nawaz Sharif’s downfall, have not affected Nawaz Sharif’s stance or his meetings with Modi.
Barrister Bishani encouraged Nawaz Sharif to take the initiative, recognizing that it is crucial for Pakistan to maintain good relations with its neighbors in the pursuit of a peaceful global existence. He argued that foreign policy hinges on harmonious ties with neighboring countries, emphasizing that unresolved conflicts with neighbors can hinder the resolution of international conflicts. Barrister Bishani believed that Nawaz Sharif comprehends the necessity of fostering positive relations with India and other neighboring nations to promote global peace.
Furthermore, Barrister Bishani contrasted Nawaz Sharif with Imran Khan, asserting that Nawaz Sharif is unlikely to be as passive in foreign affairs. He believed that Nawaz Sharif must seize this opportunity for change and break the deadlock at international forums. Barrister Bishani recognized that there might be some reservations within the establishment about pursuing a swift rapprochement with India, favoring a gradual approach. The potential for conflict between Nawaz Sharif and the establishment arises from differing views on the pace of reconciliation with India. Barrister Bishani noted that the current establishment seems less inclined to take bold steps, unlike previous occasions where there was more openness.
Turning to the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan over allegations of terrorism sponsorship, Barrister Bishani acknowledged that India’s stance is clear. He highlighted the prevailing belief in India that Pakistan is advancing economically and that engagement with Pakistan carries a security risk due to terrorism. He attributed this narrative to certain individuals who benefit from it politically by garnering votes. Barrister Bishani noted that peace talks with Pakistan may not offer the same political advantages for India. He believed that changing public opinion is essential to ending this narrative, and both governments must actively work towards this goal. Barrister Bishani expressed optimism about the potential for state and government involvement to drive the peace process forward and emphasized the importance of including the public in the peace-building efforts.
Barrister Bishani stressed the need for various influential forces, including governments, intelligence agencies, media, and other stakeholders, to work together and align their efforts for peace. He believed that such coordination is crucial for a successful peace process.
Regarding the hostile atmosphere and the denial of visas to Pakistanis in the context of the recent World Cup, Barrister Bishani acknowledged that the current situation makes it unrealistic to expect immediate optimism. While India may consider offering opportunities and openness, it remains firm in its terrorism-related stance. Barrister Bishani urged both nations to address issues amicably and resolve core problems through diplomacy, emphasizing that blame games would not yield results. Ultimately, Barrister Bishani advocated for dialogue and resolution of the core issues between India and Pakistan.