New Delhi, Jan 11 (KNS): Speaking at a webinar organized by the Centre for Peace to reflect on former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s role in promoting India-Pakistan relations, noted Supreme Court lawyer and Track-II diplomat Ashok Bhan praised Singh as a leader with “out-of-the-box ideas” and a visionary approach to diplomacy.
In a statement issued here Bhan said, “Dr. Manmohan Singh was a man of deep culture, an astute politician, the ablest economist, and a leader who believed in innovative solutions,” Bhan said. He recalled Singh’s famous statement that both nations should work towards robust development in South Asia, with Kashmir serving as a corridor to progress.
Bhan outlined key highlights of Singh’s tenure (2004-2014) in shaping India's relations with Pakistan.
Composite Dialogue, Singh's government resumed talks with Pakistan, covering Kashmir, terrorism, and trade.
Lahore Declaration, Singh’s 2004 meeting with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf reinforced the commitment to peace and cooperation.
Trade and Economic Ties, ingh’s tenure saw several agreements signed to enhance trade and commerce between the two nations, he said in a statement.
2008 Mumbai Attacks, The terrorist attacks carried out by Pakistan-based militants disrupted the peace process, posing a major challenge to bilateral relations.
Despite setbacks, Singh remained committed to fostering stability and cooperation between India and Pakistan, Bhan noted.
Calling for an end to Pakistan’s support for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Bhan emphasized that the people of Kashmir have “rejected terrorism and transitioned from turbulence to democracy.” He reiterated that India stands for friendly relations with Pakistan but stressed that it is Pakistan’s responsibility to take the first step.
“India always stands for good relations. If Pakistan moves one step forward, India will move two steps, as dictated by our ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’” Bhan said.
The webinar was attended by several dignitaries, including former Pakistan ministers Khursheed Kasuri and Mushahid Hussain, who also shared their views on the future of India-Pakistan relations. (KNS)