This refers to the news “India, Pak in dialogue mode.” The meeting of the two foreign secretaries is indeed a welcome step. Such meetings can end animosity between the two countries and help them get closer to each other, and also solve all the outstanding issues amicably. It is important that the two sides agree to resolve the long–standing Kashmir dispute. They cannot afford to delay its resolution. India must consider the five-point proposal of Syed Ali Geelani, the Hurriyat Conference chairman and get the separatists on board for talks on Kashmir. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has also submitted one proposal which also needs attention. New Delhi cannot bring the separatists on table unless it shuns its stubbornness vis-à-vis Kashmir. The repression on ground must also end. Small confidence building measures can pave way for a sustained dialogue on Kashmir. But at the heart of any dialogue process is sincerity. Both the countries have to be serious and determined in resolving all the issues for the good of the people.
Shahid Shah
Kreeri Baramulla 

Lastupdate on : Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 12 Feb 2011 00:00:00 IST