Referring to the Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the United States aimed at ending the recent conflict in the Middle East, Mirwaiz said the development demonstrated the importance of dialogue in resolving international disputes. He said India and Pakistan carry a special responsibility for maintaining peace in South Asia and expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would revive the spirit of engagement between the two neighbouring countries.
"As one of India's longest-serving leaders, Prime Minister Modi can revive the spirit of engagement. Dialogue remains the most reliable path to lasting solutions," Mirwaiz said.
He stated that the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran had once again highlighted the limitations of military force. According to him, wars may alter circumstances and inflict immense suffering, but durable peace and sustainable solutions ultimately require dialogue, negotiation, and responsible leadership.
Mirwaiz also appreciated the peace efforts undertaken by Pakistan and Qatar to help end the Middle East conflict. He said diplomacy and dialogue should not be viewed as signs of weakness but as recognition that disputes cannot be resolved through the use of force alone.
Describing the lesson as particularly relevant for South Asia, he said the region is home to nearly one-fourth of the world's population and possesses immense civilizational heritage, extraordinary human resources, and significant economic potential. However, he added that decades of political tensions, mistrust, and unresolved issues have prevented the people of the region from fully realizing these opportunities. He said the consequences have affected societies not only economically but also emotionally and psychologically.
The former chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, a separatist alliance, said sustainable peace cannot emerge from war, force, or violence. He emphasized that lasting solutions require engagement, mutual understanding, and the willingness to listen even to those with whom differences exist.
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initial years in office, Mirwaiz said the Prime Minister had spoken about regional cooperation and had expressed interest in improving relations with neighbouring countries. He expressed hope that the spirit of engagement witnessed during the tenures of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Dr. Manmohan Singh would once again guide relations between India and Pakistan.
Concluding his address, Mirwaiz said that peace may be difficult to achieve, dialogue may be slow, and diplomacy may demand patience, but these remain the most reliable instruments for resolving disputes and securing a better future. His remarks come at a time when renewed discussions surrounding unofficial diplomatic channels have once again brought regional peace efforts into focus.
About The Author
Comment List