The Centre skipped the Pakistan National Day event held in New Delhi on Thursday, signalling a moment of pronounced tension and unsaid narratives in the complex tapestry of Indo-Pak relations.
Officials skipped the event despite sources confirming to India Today TV that the Pakistan High Commission in India had formally extended an invitation to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Traditionally, it has been customary for nations to extend invitations to host nations even during times of underlying tension. However, during the event, as the national anthems of both countries echoed through the venue, Pakistan’s Chargé d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich stood alone, symbolising the current estrangement between the two South Asian neighbours.
In his speech during the event, Warraich did speak about the tumultuous history of Indo-Pak relations, marred by conflicts and a cycle of tensions.
However, Warraich advocated for a new chapter in bilateral relations between India and Pakistan, one that is predicated on peaceful coexistence, sovereign equality, and mutual respect.
“Distinguished guests, the founding fathers of Pakistan in India envisioned amicable relationship between the two countries. Unfortunately, the history of our bilateral relationship has remained challenged for the most part, cycle of perpetual conflict intention is not our ordained destiny,” he said.
“We can emerge from the shadow of the past and step in a future of hope for our two peoples based on peaceful coexistence, sovereignty, equality and mutual respect,” he added.
Further in his address, Warraich also spoke about the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir, a longstanding bone of contention between India and Pakistan.
“The role of regional peace and stability can be achieved by enhancing mutual understanding, addressing shared concerns, and resolving long-standing disputes, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute,” he pointed out.
While emphasising the importance of resolving such disputes for regional peace and stability, Warraich also touched upon the shared cultural and social ties that bind the peoples of India and Pakistan.
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