The joint statement, in itself, given the developments since the spectacular terror attack in Mumbai on November 26 last, would have had been considered a notable positive development.
But mercifully enough, it has gone significantly beyond. Quote Both Prime Ministers recognised that dialogue is the only way forward. Action on terrorism should not be linked to the composite dialogue process and these should not be bracketed. Prime Minister Singh said that India was ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan, including all outstanding issues. Unquote That is quite a bit beyond customary, and deceptive, diplomatese. It is difficult to believe that Indian, and Pakistani, rulers had sudden change of hearts. Till the other day, the Indian leaders, in particular, were making very much contrary noises. Even now, this declaration, in all probability, would be greeted with howling protests back home by the usual suspects. It'd be branded as an unacceptable concession - an act of yielding to pressures. That provides us with an insightful clue to the dynamic of this development. But never mind. More importantly, the sub-continental peace movement, which has consistently been an important voice of sanity and wisdom even in trying circumstances, will have to pull up its socks to push the process further ahead. Help lead the two neighbours towards lasting amity and away from the abyss of conflicts and self-destruction. Sukla http://blog.taragana.com/n/text-of-india-pakistan-joint-statement-111292/ Text of India-Pakistan joint statement<http://blog.taragana.com/n/text-of-india-pakistan-joint-statement-111292/>July 16th, 2009 Sharm-el-SHEIKH - The following is the joint statement issued after talks between the prime ministers of India and Pakistan here Thursday: The Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, and the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, met in Sharm-el-Sheikh on July 16, 2009. The two Prime Ministers had a cordial and constructive meeting. They considered the entire gamut of bilateral relations with a view to charting the way forward in India-Pakistan relations. Both leaders agreed that terrorism is the main threat to both countries. Both leaders affirmed their resolve to fight terrorism and to cooperate with each other to this end. Prime Minister Singh reiterated the need to bring the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack to justice. Prime Minister Gilani assured that Pakistan will do everything in its power in this regard. He said that Pakistan had provided an updated status dossier on the investigations of the Mumbai attacks and had sought additional information/evidence. Prime Minister Singh said that the dossier is being reviewed. Both leaders agreed that the two countries will share real time, credible and actionable information on any future terrorist threats. Prime Minister Gilani mentioned that Pakistan has some information on threats in Baluchistan and other areas. Both Prime Ministers recognised that dialogue is the only way forward. Action on terrorism should not be linked to the composite dialogue process and these should not be bracketed. Prime Minister Singh said that India was ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan, including all outstanding issues. Prime Minister Singh reiterated India’s interest in a stable, democratic, Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Both leaders agreed that the real challenge is development and the elimination of poverty. Both leaders are resolved to eliminate those factors which prevent our countries from realizing their full potential. Both agreed to work to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence. Both leaders reaffirmed their intention to promote regional cooperation. Both foreign secretaries should meet as often as necessary and report to the two foreign ministers who will be meeting on the sidelines of the forthcoming UN General Assembly. * * * * --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Green Youth Movement" group. To post to this group, send email to greenyouth@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to greenyouth+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/greenyouth?hl=en-GB -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---
