They are the newest nuclear weapons powers but also have had one of most unstable relations in recent history - not a good mix. The conflict over Kashmir and other contentious issues have fueled extremism, communal killings and even several wars since the countries split upon independence from the British. Is this the start toward a solution? Difficult to tell, but it appears to be a fresh start. The personalities involved also suggest something new, including the first female Foreign Minister for Pakistan, Hina Rabbani Khar (PHOTO ABOVE). India has resisted the "internationalization" of the Kashmir dispute, both as it reflects the conflict with Pakistan and its efforts to suppress the aspirations of its large majority Muslim population. (That is one reason that the India-Pakistan dispute(s) or Kashmir are addressed so rarely and only indirectly in the context of the UN. It is one of the most hotly contested issues that would appear to be in dramatic need of diplomacy but with no formal status/consideration at the UN). India would not be comfortable with the international human rights or legal scrutiny. India's claim as both the largest democracy and secular state (with actually the second largest Muslim population) has also been undermined by the continuing situation in Kasmir. In Pakistan, Kashmir has been exploited also by radical forces, regardless of legitimacy of claims with respect to India. It is a lighting rod that religious extremists have usurped ever more for broader agendas against domestic and international political opponents, and with no political road forward, violence is more rationalized as an alternative. Most critically, attention has been diverted to potential conflict with India rather than focus on badly needed economic and social reforms. Reality is no longer particularly relevant and certainly not seen in very similar light from Pakistan or India. Terror in Mumbai is frequently cited as the greatest recent rift between the two states. Domestically Pakistan has suffered even more from similar terror sources in terms of attacks upon its citizens and political leadership - see the assassination of Benazir Bhutto. In the end, the reality of progress will also be slow, but it is important that the perception of a peace-reconciliation process be perceived as underway. Besides New Delhi and Islamabad, Washington to Brussels to Kabul all have a critical stake in progress and ultimate solution. The globe as a whole has a stake in seeing these nuclear neighbors reach the road forward, even if a modest walking path to start. I would also though expect efforts by those who have a vested interest in the unstable and simmering status quo to attempt to unravel the threads of this slows weaving of a new relationship between these two neighbors who share so much in history, culture, geography and economic prospects. By Ambassador Muhamed Sacirbey 


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