BATHINDA: South Asia Peace Action Network (SAPAN), an organisation aimed at promoting cooperation, peace and dialogue across the region, has written an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the eve of his third term expressing concern over Pakistan’s exclusion from the invitation to meet the heads of state of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The letter highlighted the common history, culture and aspirations that drive the SAARC umbrella countries’ insistence for better relations.
Among other things, the letter congratulates Prime Minister Modi and the NDA 3.0 on their recent electoral victory. It also reaffirms the Indian people’s faith in democracy and commends the Indian alliance for restoring a healthy and united opposition in India.
While acknowledging PM Modi’s initiative in inviting leaders of neighbouring SAARC countries to the swearing-in ceremony, Sapan expressed concern over the lack of an invitation to Pakistan. In keeping with the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (‘one world family’), the letter urges a rethinking of attitude and extends a hand of friendship to all SAARC countries, including Pakistan.
The letter highlights the common bonds shared by South Asians, from history and cuisine to language, religion, culture, art, dance and music, and stresses the “potential for unity and cooperation. While acknowledging that recent interactions have been marked by suspicion and lack of trust, it also stresses the power of repairing relationships and strengthening ancient cultures and traditions.”
“The lack of dialogue between India and Pakistan threatens to impede South Asia’s ability to focus on mutual development and prosperity,” the letter said. Citing historical instances when dialogue played a key role in resolving issues, the letter called for a new era of true cross-border friendship.
Sapan pledges to work with all governments in the region to foster dialogue and make visa regime easier for the people. The letter asks PM Modi to convene a formal SAARC summit involving all heads of state to chart a roadmap for peace and good relations. The letter concludes with quotes from respected visionaries IA Rehman and Admiral L. Ramdas, urging action for peace and understanding: “If not now, when? If not us, who?”
Among other things, the letter congratulates Prime Minister Modi and the NDA 3.0 on their recent electoral victory. It also reaffirms the Indian people’s faith in democracy and commends the Indian alliance for restoring a healthy and united opposition in India.
While acknowledging PM Modi’s initiative in inviting leaders of neighbouring SAARC countries to the swearing-in ceremony, Sapan expressed concern over the lack of an invitation to Pakistan. In keeping with the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (‘one world family’), the letter urges a rethinking of attitude and extends a hand of friendship to all SAARC countries, including Pakistan.
The letter highlights the common bonds shared by South Asians, from history and cuisine to language, religion, culture, art, dance and music, and stresses the “potential for unity and cooperation. While acknowledging that recent interactions have been marked by suspicion and lack of trust, it also stresses the power of repairing relationships and strengthening ancient cultures and traditions.”
“The lack of dialogue between India and Pakistan threatens to impede South Asia’s ability to focus on mutual development and prosperity,” the letter said. Citing historical instances when dialogue played a key role in resolving issues, the letter called for a new era of true cross-border friendship.
Sapan pledges to work with all governments in the region to foster dialogue and make visa regime easier for the people. The letter asks PM Modi to convene a formal SAARC summit involving all heads of state to chart a roadmap for peace and good relations. The letter concludes with quotes from respected visionaries IA Rehman and Admiral L. Ramdas, urging action for peace and understanding: “If not now, when? If not us, who?”
