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| Bridging the gap |
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Friday, October 30, 2009
Hillary Clinton is clearly on a mission in Pakistan. She is obviously eager to set Pakistan-US relations on the right footing after the angst created by the Kerry-Lugar Bill. In her comments to the media, she has emphasized that the contents of the bill were badly communicated to Pakistan and also repeated Senator John Kerry's reminder that Pakistan was not being forced to accept the aid under the bill if it did not want it. On the whole, Ms Clinton made a very deliberate effort to bridge the divide that has recently grown and talked of constructing a special relationship with Pakistan. But it was obvious too from her words that the Obama administration is not quite sure how to go about this. Talk of 'good' and 'bad' Taliban suggests an increase in desperation and a possible willingness to do business with some factions if there is no other choice. This would be a mistake. We have seen moderates turn into extremists before. Better options need to be found in Pakistan and Afghanistan. We must hope Ms Clinton's detailed talks during her visit can help suggest a way forward.
Ms Clinton's challenge to extremists, to come forward and let the Pakistani people decide, brought out the degree to which the US is aware that extremism is not favoured by people. In this context the efforts made by the US secretary of state, despite immense security concerns, to reach out and interact with ordinary people are a good omen. Perhaps Washington has gained a greater understanding than before that the key to battling militant trends lies in empowering people. It is also a fact that for the moment Pakistan needs Washington's help to help these people. It cannot offer them jobs, education and welfare without this. For all the rhetoric, a partnership is essential for the moment. Hillary Clinton spoke several times of winning over hearts. Perhaps she and her staff, for her next visit, should also keep in mind that the blocking of roads and the consequent problems imposed on people are one way to lose goodwill rapidly! In Lahore the disruption caused due to the massive security measures put in place for her visit must have cost the US and Ms Clinton a number of friends. These may be minor considerations, but they all play a part in winning over people and persuading them to see friends where at present many see enemies.
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ISSN 1563-9479 
