Talks are vital for good relations

It is always good when neighbours agree to talks on disputed land that exists between them, especially if there is a risk of the dispute escalating. So when Pakistan and India meet to discuss Kashmir, it must be seen as a welcome sign that possibly relations between the two are thawing. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Indian External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee met Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmoud Qureshi to renew discussions on the peace talks which were postponed, pending the establishment of a civilian government in Pakistan.

The dispute over Kashmir has been going on for more than 60 years and many would argue that it is still no nearer a successful conclusion. While token gestures have been made by both sides on occasion, each side has avoided the big issue between them: control or otherwise over Kashmir. Until that is addressed, everything else remains in a state of flux.