What Steps Pakistan Must Take for Permanent Peace with India and Stability for Itself
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1. Acknowledge and Eliminate Terrorism as State Policy
Pakistan must publicly recognize that sponsoring or harboring terrorist groups (like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and others) has brought isolation, economic ruin, and national insecurity.
Immediate dismantling of all terror infrastructures operating from Pakistani soil is essential — not symbolic arrests, but true shutdowns and prosecutions.
> Why? Without this foundational change, no peace will be trusted or sustainable.
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2. Empower Civilian Government over Military and ISI
Pakistan’s military and its powerful intelligence wing, the ISI, have historically dominated the country’s foreign policy, especially towards India.
A permanent peace requires civilian supremacy — elected leaders should craft and manage foreign relations without military manipulation.
> Why? True peace cannot be achieved if war decisions are made by unelected generals protecting institutional interests, not national interests.
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3. Reform the National Narrative
Pakistan’s school textbooks, media, and public discourse must move away from the "India as the eternal enemy" mindset.
History should be taught factually, emphasizing shared heritage, regional cooperation, and modern global opportunities.
Encourage public figures — scholars, religious leaders, media personalities — to promote a new narrative of peace and coexistence.
> Why? Minds must change before borders and policies can change.
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4. Strengthen Democracy and the Rule of Law
Create a political environment where free speech, press freedom, and judicial independence are protected.
Tackle corruption and extremism within politics itself, ensuring that radical elements don't hijack national conversations.
> Why? A vibrant, democratic society is more resilient against extremist manipulation and war-driven policies.
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5. Improve Economic Stability and Connectivity
Focus on domestic economic revival through trade, industrialization, and technology adoption.
Open doors for regional trade (with India, Afghanistan, Central Asia) instead of relying excessively on China’s strategic loans and aid.
Remove unnecessary barriers like tariffs, visa restrictions, and airspace closures to boost people-to-people business ties.
> Why? An economy tied to peace and prosperity is less likely to fall back into cycles of conflict.
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6. Resolve Core Issues through Diplomacy, Not Violence
Accept that Kashmir cannot be won militarily. Instead, work towards a negotiated settlement, prioritizing cross-border human connections, cultural exchanges, and gradual normalization.
Realize that water issues, terrorism, and trade are interconnected and require continuous dialogue, not sporadic talks.
> Why? Problems are best solved when there is trust, patience, and respect for mutual sovereignty.
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7. Foster Regional Cooperation through SAARC and Other Platforms
Revive and strengthen regional bodies like SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and fully participate in organizations like SCO and OIC with a focus on development, not confrontation.
Take leadership in climate change, education, energy security, and poverty alleviation discussions with neighbors, including India.
> Why? Regional leadership through peace enhances national pride and economic power.
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8. Rehabilitate Radicalized Youth and Border Communities
Launch massive de-radicalization and education campaigns across Pakistan’s border provinces (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan).
Create jobs, provide scholarships, and build modern schools to offer youth an alternative to extremism.
> Why? Disenfranchised, jobless youth are easy targets for militants — prosperity weakens militancy.
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9. Maintain Transparent Backchannel Communication with India
Set up constant, secret lines of communication (backchannels) so that even in times of public tension, leaders can quietly de-escalate misunderstandings.
Use professional diplomats and non-political experts to handle sensitive negotiations without media hysteria.
> Why? Quiet, steady diplomacy often achieves more than loud, public posturing.
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10. Promote Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy
Encourage cricket tournaments, art exhibitions, music collaborations, academic exchanges with India.
Facilitate easier visa processes for pilgrims, scholars, and tourists.
Celebrate shared cultural and historical ties (like Indus Valley Civilization, Sufi heritage).
> Why? Emotional and cultural bonds soften hardened political positions over time.
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Conclusion:
Permanent peace is entirely possible — but it requires Pakistan to courageously shift its foundations: from military obsession and anti-India fixation to civilian governance, economic growth, and regional leadership.
The choice is not between pride and peace — true national pride lies in progress, not perpetual conflict.
If Pakistan undertakes these steps seriously, it can not only live peacefully with India but also thrive as a respected nation globally.