On one hand, Pakistan aims to transform Azad Kashmir into a tourist destination. However, the law and order situation in Kashmir, marked by protests from the Joint Public Action Committee, paints a grim picture. The government has declared holidays due to unrest, and there is a shortage of necessities like food and water. How can we realistically envision making it a tourist spot under such circumstances?
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported in April that India’s nominal GDP will reach $4.34 trillion, surpassing Japan’s $4.31 trillion. This means India will surpass Japan economically. While we highlight human rights violations in Indian-administered Kashmir, where Yasin Malik has been imprisoned, and the heavy military presence, Middle Eastern governments are still investing there. This raises questions about our narrative versus the ground realities.
Pakistan strives to improve its global image, it is struggling to establish peace in Kashmir. Similarly, political crisis in the country also hampers progress. Narendra Modi’s regime has solidified its influence in Kashmir, but what about Pakistan’s influence? In Pakistan, our political maneuvers, often involving the co-opting of politicians, result in street protests rather than stability.
Consider the Joint Public Action Committee’s protests in Kashmir on February 5 and May 11, coinciding with Pakistan’s Kashmir Solidarity Day. While one group observes this day, another demands their rights. This duality highlights the disconnect between official narratives and the people’s realities.
In Pakistan, May 11 is also significant as India’s Nuclear Day, further fueling protests in Kashmir. This juxtaposition underscores the critical need to give regions like Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan the space and resources they need. Ignoring their needs and relying on forceful control will not yield long-term stability.
The biggest question remains: Can we turn Kashmir into a tourist hotspot amidst shutdowns and unrest? The challenging terrain of Azad Kashmir already complicates logistics. If supply lines are cut off and roads closed, tourists will be deterred by the perception of instability. This affects not only foreign tourists but also local visitors, disrupting the market.
Dialogue remains the best solution. Continuous engagement and negotiation are crucial. Contending with India will not be about nuclear capabilities anymore; it will be through economic strength. For instance, India is being seen as the new China in the car market, benefiting from Japan’s stagnant growth. Political instability in Great Britain has also allowed India to surpass it economically.
India’s emergence as a new manufacturing hub stems from its favorable investment climate, lack of terrorism, and political stability. Initiatives like ‘Make in India’ have focused on innovation, investor friendliness, and skill development, making India a key player in global production and intellectual property rights.
Pakistan need to address these core issues. Investors prioritize the safety and return on their investments over geopolitical relations. While we have attracted investments from Saudi Arabia and China, we must create an environment that appeals to global business groups. This involves resolving the resource distribution conflicts in regions like Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
The younger generation is acutely aware of global events. When India hosts Formula 1 races in Srinagar, it signals opportunity despite the underlying issues. In contrast, our political instability and unrest deter potential investors and tourists alike.
Without addressing the resource distribution conflicts and ensuring people’s basic needs, nationalism alone will not sustain the populace. People need to believe their sacrifices will be rewarded by the state caring for their families. In Pakistan, benefits for those fighting terrorism reassure people, but this cannot replace the need for resources and stability.
Pakistan faces significant challenges, from political uncertainty to economic instability. While India capitalizes on the China-America rivalry and establishes itself as a global manufacturing hub, regions like Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan are perceived as terrorism hotspots. Changing this narrative is essential.
We need to focus on economic growth and stability, leveraging our strengths to create an environment conducive to investment and tourism. Resolving political crises and resource conflicts will help us compete globally and reap the benefits of a stable and prosperous nation. Let’s hope for an end to the current unrest and work towards a future where we can compete globally, not just through strength but through economic resilience and opportunity creation.
