New Delhi, Jan 11: A recent webinar organized by the Centre for Peace focused on the contributions of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in fostering India-Pakistan relations. Ashok Bhan, a prominent Supreme Court lawyer and track-2 diplomacy advocate, delivered a pivotal address outlining Singh’s diplomatic legacy.
Bhan described Dr Manmohan Singh as “a man of deep culture, an astute politician, the ablest economist, and a leader with out-of-the-box ideas”. He mentioned the former PM’s enduring belief that both nations should work towards robust development in South Asia, with Kashmir serving as a vital corridor for growth.
During his tenure from 2004 to 2014, Dr Singh played a crucial role in diplomatic efforts with Pakistan.
Enumerating several key achievements, Bhan said Dr Singh’s tenure saw the revival of the composite dialogue, a multifaceted approach addressing critical issues including Kashmir, terrorism and trade. Mentioning Lahore Declaration, he said Singh met with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf in 2004, which resulted in the Lahore Declaration that aimed at reducing bilateral tensions and fostering cooperation. On economic ties, Ashok said the administration made strides in strengthening trade relations with Pakistan, which culminated in multiple agreements on commerce and energy cooperation.
He said Dr Singh-led UPA government pursued negotiations to address the Kashmir dispute, seeking a peaceful resolution that would be acceptable to both nations and their peoples. However, Bhan also acknowledged the challenges during Singh’s tenure, notably the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks carried out by Pakistan-based terrorists, which severely strained relations and resulted in the suspension of dialogue.
“Despite the numerous hurdles he faced, the efforts of Manmohan Singh were always aimed at promoting peace, stability and cooperation,” Bhan said, adding, “Pakistan must end its support for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir and acknowledge that Kashmiris have transitioned from violence to democratic engagement.”
Former Pakistani ministers Khursheed Kasuri and Mushahid Hussain, along with several dignitaries, participated in the webinar.
Bhan concluded with a call for cooperation, quoting India’s ethos, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, highlighting the importance of familial ties between nations. He said while Pakistan must take a step toward peace, India is prepared to take two steps in return.
