DR Rashid Ahmad Khan, professor of international relations at Sargodha University in Pakistan, i n an op-ed titled 'Conflict on the west, peace in the east'. wrote in Lahore's Daily Times: 'In This row with the US pushing Pakistan towards reconciliation with India? Is it just a coincidence or a calculated move on the part of Pakistan to drop certain preconditions for forward movement in some of the thorniest differences with India, like bilateral trade? Whatever the reality , the fast, however, remains that escalating tensions on Pakistan's western border due to deteriorating relations in recent months. The most recent , and undoubtedly the most significant, was Pakistan's commerce minister Amin Fahim's journey to New Delhi and his successful talks with Indian counterpart Anand Sharma, resulting in the decision by the two countries to expand bilateral trade and allowing India to use the Wagah land trade route.'
He also pointed out:'Realising that it cannot afford hostility simultaneously on its western and eastern borders,Pakistan's move for an improved relationship with India is understandable.But in Pakistan, there is an influential lobby, including religious political parties like Jammat-i-Ialami(JI) and Jamiat -ul-Ulema Islam Fazl (JUI-F) , that holds that instead of accepting US hegemony to counter the security threat from India, it is better to improve relations with the latter to avoid being a surrogate to the former .In India, as well , there are certain circles that are of the opinion that if Pakistan and India join hands, they can keep the region free of the influence of extra-regional powers. A widening row between Pakistan and the US, therefore, may come as a blessing in disguise for peace and reconciliation between the two archrivals , Pakistan and India.'
He also pointed out:'Realising that it cannot afford hostility simultaneously on its western and eastern borders,Pakistan's move for an improved relationship with India is understandable.But in Pakistan, there is an influential lobby, including religious political parties like Jammat-i-Ialami(JI) and Jamiat -ul-Ulema Islam Fazl (JUI-F) , that holds that instead of accepting US hegemony to counter the security threat from India, it is better to improve relations with the latter to avoid being a surrogate to the former .In India, as well , there are certain circles that are of the opinion that if Pakistan and India join hands, they can keep the region free of the influence of extra-regional powers. A widening row between Pakistan and the US, therefore, may come as a blessing in disguise for peace and reconciliation between the two archrivals , Pakistan and India.'
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