• UGI USER
  • May 22, 2024
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A TIME FOR PARA DIPLOMACY

SYLLABUS:

  • GS 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreement involving India and/or affecting India’s Interest.

FOCUS:

  • The recent publication of General K.M.Munir’s book, “Pakistan: The Untold Story”, has reignited the debate about the origins and nature of Pakistan.

Sub-state diplomacy, involving formal interactions between provincial or local governments and foreign entities, has emerged as a significant tool for promoting national interests. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has recently proposed several measures to engage Pakistan, including reclaiming Kartarpur Sahib and reopening trade borders. These initiatives highlight the potential for economic cooperation to transform historically contentious regions into zones of peace and prosperity.

Introduction to Sub-State Diplomacy:

  • The concept of “sub-state diplomacy” involves formal interactions between provincial and local governments to promote national interests.
  • It allows entities below the federal level to engage in international diplomacy, working towards shared national goals.
  • Sub-state diplomacy is not intended to oppose national governments but to complement their efforts.
  • It is particularly relevant for regions with historical and cultural ties across borders, such as Punjab in India and Pakistan.
  • The practice can open avenues for cooperation that national governments might find difficult to explore due to entrenched positions.
Relations between India and Pakistan

Kashmir Issue

  • Pakistan’s Kashmir policy has been reactive, responding to India’s moves in the region.
  • Indian government’s efforts to integrate Jammu and Kashmir, including revoking Articles 370 and 35A.
  • Granting of Union Territory status to Jammu and Kashmir opposed by Pakistan, leading to tensions.

Indus Waters Treaty

  • Established on September 19, 1960, with World Bank mediation.
  • India controls the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers; Pakistan manages the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab.

India-Pakistan Trade Relations

  • Bilateral trade volume remains limited despite their economic sizes.
  • In 2018-19, India’s exports to Pakistan totalled $2.06 billion, while imports stood at $495 million.
  • Trade suspension following the Pulwama terror attack in 2019.

Kartarpur Corridor

  • Connects the Sikh shrines of Dera Baba Nanak in India and Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan.
  • Inaugurated on November 9, 2019, offering Indian pilgrims visa-free access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib.

SAD’s Proposals:

  • The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has proposed reclaiming Kartarpur Sahib, Guru Nanak’s final resting place, from Pakistan.
  • This would involve negotiating an “exchange of territory” with Pakistan.
  • SAD also suggests reopening the Attari and Hussainiwala borders for trade and tourism.
  • The party envisions creating a “special economic zone” along the Punjab border to promote economic ties.
  • These proposals highlight the potential of sub-state diplomacy in addressing longstanding territorial and economic issues.

Challenges and Skepticism:

  • Critics argue that altering the territorial status quo along the Radcliffe Line or reclaiming PoK is extremely difficult.
  • The Pakistan Army’s reluctance to engage in economic cooperation with India complicates matters.
  • Pakistan has not granted Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to India, and trade ties were suspended after India’s constitutional changes in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Despite occasional signals of interest, internal opposition in Pakistan often derails efforts to resume trade.
  • The complex political landscape in both countries makes sustained economic cooperation challenging.

Potential Benefits of Economic Cooperation:

  • Changing the nature of military zones into areas of commercial cooperation can promote peace and prosperity.
  • Cross-border trade can transform the Punjab border from a conflict zone into an economic hub.
  • Creating special economic zones can benefit small and medium enterprises in the region.
  • Such initiatives could serve as models for other regions with shared borders.
  • Positive economic developments could lead to broader improvements in India-Pakistan relations.

Historical and Regional Context:

  • Sub-state diplomacy has occasionally been encouraged in the Punjab region during periods of India-Pakistan peace efforts.
  • Chief ministers from both sides of Punjab have explored mutual cooperation in the past.
  • Similar initiatives in other Indian border states have faced unique challenges and varying levels of success.
  • West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have historically influenced India’s diplomatic engagements with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, respectively.
  • The next Indian government must consider para diplomacy as a tool for effective statecraft, building consensus between the center and regional parties to foster productive neighborly relations.

The success of sub-state diplomacy hinges on effective collaboration between central and regional governments, especially in sensitive border areas. While challenges such as political opposition and security concerns remain, the potential benefits of economic cooperation and improved bilateral relations make it a promising avenue for future diplomacy. By leveraging the unique strengths of local and provincial entities, India can advance its national interests and foster a more stable regional environment.

Source:The Indian Express

Mains Practice Question:

“Examine the role of sub-state diplomacy in fostering national interests, with special reference to the Shiromani Akali Dal’s proposals for engaging Pakistan. Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of such diplomatic initiatives.”

Associated Articles:

https://universalinstitutions.com/india-pakistan-relationship/