Workshop Abstract-Dr.Saleem Kiqwai

ABSTRACT

HOW CAN THE UNITED STATES PLAY ITS ROLE IN INDO-PAK CONFIDENCE-BUILDING?

SALEEM KIDWAI*

At a time when complex global problems and hotspots are being resolved, South Asian problems essentially stressing from Indo-Pakistan rivalries are proving intractable. Nuclearization has aggravated matters further. Temporary positive action, followed by a reversion to enmity, as has repeatedly been the case, in the past has become too dangerous to be repeated in the new, nuclear environment. The strategic reality in the sub-continent is truly alarming. Recent developments, particularly Kargil crisis have only highlighted what bilateral arrangements and other confidence-building measures between India and Pakistan are inadequate by themselves to ensure either stability or continuity of meaningful bilateral dialogue. Though the standoff between New Delhi and Islamabad is strictly bilateral, the process of resolution need not necessarily be bilateral.

Being the only super power what the US thinks and wants vis-à-vis this region is important. The US has influence, power and opportunity motivation to make an impact on the sub-continent. US interests in South Asia, although not vital, are important and increasing. The region's strategic, economic and human significance demands greater attention and a revised approach. With the end of the cold war, the US is no longer confined by the constraints of the cold war and can deal with issues face to face and fudge each issue on its merits. The efforts to end the region's conflicts is an essential element of promoting US interests. Ensuring stability in the sub-continent is the US overwhelming foreign policy concern. This flows from both regional and global imperatives. Being a significant partner in the politics of the sub continent and being the lone super power, the US is in a position to contribute positively in conflict resolution and confidence building in the region. The US should continue to encourage New Delhi and Islamabad to hold regular talks about their entire relationship, free from any linkage to progress on Kashmir. It should offer to provide technical means to verify troop movements or withdrawals. It should also use its resources to promote non-official track II diplomacy between the rivals. It should actively support the expansion of non-official transactions such as people-to-people contact. The US must temper its expectations about what it can do put an end to Indo-Pak conflict. It should recognize the limits of its influence and use more carrot and less stick and should state its policies in a more circumspect manner.

The US policy to encourage confidence building in South Asia, involves a neutral position. South Asia while posing fresh challenges for the US, also presents it with tremendous opportunities. But seizing these opportunities require creative thinking and skillful diplomacy.

*Associate Professor, American and West European Studies Division, Jawaharlal Nehru University, India

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