Published Date: Mar 13, 2014
SDPI Press Release – Mar 13, 2014
A high-profile peace activist delegation from India has visited
Pakistan to take part in the ‘Track-II Diplomacy’ on enhancing peaceful
relations between the two countries. In this regard, delegate conducted a
briefing of “People to people contact: a way forward“, which was organized by Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Islamabad.
The Indian delegation was comprised of four participants Satya
Paul Arora, Secretary General, South Asian Fraternity, New Delhi,
Bhawani Shanker Kusum, Chairman, Gram Bharati Samiti, Amer, Jaipur, Shri
Kharaiti Lal Bhola, Chairman, Patita (Destitutes) Sudhar Sabha, New
Delhi and S. Ranjit Singh, Secretary , Lala Lajpat Rai Birthplace
Memorial Committee, Dhudike.
Satya
Paul Arora discussed the problems and prospects of peace between India
and Pakistan. He said that the two governments should relax visa regime
as the people from the countries can hold video conferences but people
to people contact is too demanding for them. Furthermore, he said that
visa for journalists, traders, lawyers, students and academicians should
specifically be relaxed for a better communication & business
relationships.
Shri
Kharaiti Lal Bhola said that the problems were not limited to the
governmental level, but in fact serious psychological and mental
constructs among the people created serious barriers and constraints for
peace. Both governments should spend money on welfare instead of
defense.
Bahawani
Shanker Kusum stressed to have no visa restrictions on both sides so
that there should be peaceful exchange programs between youth and new
generations without any hindrance.
Ranjeet Singh appreciated the positive attitude of Pakistanis towards Indians during exchange visits.
Ahmad
Saleem, renowned writer said that SDPI has conducted studies on common
history and events of 1947 & 1971. However, instead of narrating
violent events, our researchers has compiled about the events where the
people saved people hailing from other religion and sectarian. He opined
that there was a need to remove hate material from our common history.
During the concluding remarks, Shafqat Kakakhel, Chairman Board of Governors, SDPI said that Pakistanis across the board want peace with India. If they join hands to foster peace, they can make immense progress.