You always wanted a solution to the Kashmir problem. Do you think it is possible in your lifetime?
I remain optimistic about it. But there has to be a fundamental change in Pakistan’s perspectives. During my Lahore visit, I had clearly conveyed our desire for peace and friendship. Apparently Pakistan did not believe us. Until they change their perception about Jammu & Kashmir – that because it is a Muslim majority state, it should be a part of Pakistan – no meaningful discussions can take place on this matter.
So, will problems between India and Pakistan remain as long as Kashmir is an issue?
It does not have to be so. Even while we discuss Jammu & Kashmir, we can develop our cooperation in other areas through trade and investments, cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts. We have several important economic and cultural aspects on our agenda. This does not mean we are running away from the problem of Jammu & Kashmir or that we are not willing to discuss it. It only means improvement of our all round relations will further help both our countries approach the issues relation to Jammu & Kashmir with greater understanding and accommodation.
Would either Pakistan or India accept that the Line of Control can become the International Border?
No. Matters have not yet reached the stage of discussions on such matters.
If it is left to you, what will you do? What is your solution to this?
Why leave it to me? This is a subject of grave national importance and it has to be resolved with the collective wisdom of the people.
America also has a role to play. Is it a constructive role?
Yes. In recent years, it has been making genuine efforts to promote peace in our subcontinent – as a friend, not a mediator.
So, is America a good friend now?
As I have said before, as two democracies, India and USA are natural allies.
What is your opinion of Musharraf? Do you feel he can be trusted?
It is not a question of trust. We have issues of bilateral importance and mutual interest to discuss with the political leadership of Pakistan, if the objective conditions permit it.
Some people in the Sangh Parivar believe your peace initiative is a sign of weakness?
In fact, the Sangh has welcomed the peace initiative. They have issued statements welcoming the SAARC Summit, the resumption of air, road and rail links between India and Pakistan and of people-to-people contacts, including sporting links.
Will any bilateral meeting take place on the sidelines of the SAARC Summit?
A number of bilateral meetings with other SAARC leaders have been scheduled. Naturally, I will also interact with our Pakistani hosts at the Summit.
Do you believe Pakistan is under pressure from America to restore ties with India or is its own initiative?
I do not know about pressures on Pakistan, but I do believe that USA wants peace and friendship on our subcontinent. Whenever we meet leaders of other countries, they enquire when dialogue can commence between India and Pakistan. This is not pressure.
In a different way, we are all under pressure – the pressure to seek peace instead of hostility, development instead of violence. We proceed from the understanding that in today’s world, political wisdom lies in resolving differences and promoting economic growth and development. We hope Pakistan will also act according to the same realization.
Is there any condition that has to be fulfilled for you to be ready to talk to Pakistan?
I do not wish to repeat what we have said so many times before on this subject.
Does Pakistan see us as an enemy?
I think the perception of India among the Pakistani people is changing. All our delegations which have returned from Pakistan, as well as Pakistani delegations which have come here, have consistently talked about the desire to have peace and friendship.
Cross border terrorism has not stopped…
We now have a ceasefire along our International Border, the Line of Control and the actual ground position on Siachen. Let us see whether this leads to further positive developments.
Is there a nuclear option? Any possibility of Atalji pressing the nuclear button?
The only button I will press is of an electronic voting machine! It is madness even to contemplate nuclear war. Our nuclear weapons are meant to be a deterrent.
What direction do you want India’s foreign policy to take?
I think our strengthening network of international relations shows that our foreign policy is vibrant and forward-looking. Our robust economy is also changing the way the world is looking at us.
Unlike today, when India is a darling of the world, we were the target of global rebuke after Pokhran-II in 1998. In retrospect, was the decision for nuclear tests the correct one? Has it helped India?
It was definitely the correct decision. Most countries of the world today recognize this, though they may not publicly admit it. Our nuclear tests strengthened our national security in a strategic sense.
What about relations with China?
Our bilateral relations with China are improving steadily. We have made great progress in economic cooperation. During my recent visit to China, I had very fruitful discussions with the new leadership of that country.
China, Russia and India can make common cause against America…
We are not seeking to make common cause against America. Whatever dialogue our three countries have had, related to cooperation for the benefit of our countries and not against America or against any other country.
