Since their last war in 1971, India and Pakistan have lived in peace. However, controversy started last month when 40 paramilitary police were killed in the Kashmir region of India. The attack was claimed by a Pakistan-based militant group. On Feb 26 India retaliated with a jet raid of a militant camp in Pakistan. The next day on Feb 27, Pakistan shot down an Indian aircraft and captured the pilot after he ejected from the plane. However, as a sign of peace, Pakistan released custody of the pilot.
This past Saturday, Pakistan held a parade to show off its military power. Pakistan's president, Arif Alvi commented on the purpose of the parade stating, "Today's parade is sending the message that we are a peaceful people but we will never be oblivious of our defense." President Alvi has also released multiple statements making it very clear that war is not sensible and this dispute should be settled through communication.
I agree with president Alvi in the sense that war would be an inappropriate outcome for this dispute. If these two nations went to war this would obviously have an impact on many economies around the world. Many countries would have to get involved especially with threats of nuclear warfare. Hopefully we have seen the end of these violent attacks and peace can quickly be restored to these neighboring nations.
Link: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-pakistan-republicday/pakistan-call-for-peace-with-india-as-it-shows-off-its-military-might-idUSKCN1R409T
2 comments:
Jared, great article. Wars are very expensive and it would definitely effect both of these nations. Another thing to think about is the devastation the nations might receive as a result of a war. The economies would need to shift towards the reconstruction and through the production of the war efforts, which would cost more money. Overall, I think it will be interesting to see what happens in the coming months and even years to see if there will be more conflict.
This is good news that the two countries with a prolonged rivalry trying to not break out war. It may also help them focus more towards their economy and improve. I hope it leads to a peaceful agreement towards how to deal with Kashmir as well, so it could be a free land, or a middle-ground that Pakistan and India both can utilize for their economic benefits.
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