India and Pakistan are two neighboring countries with a history and past full of tense relations. Both countries have been locked in bitter geopolitical struggles. The long-standing animosity and hostility have resulted in multiple conflicts and disputes, hindering progress and development. However, if the two states make peace with each other, then their benefits and advantages will be multifaceted and far-reaching. From economic prosperity and human development to joint action against social evils, the potential gains are immense. One of the central pillars of peaceful coexistence between India and Pakistan is the potential for robust economic collaboration and expanded trade ties. Likewise, the advent of peaceful relations could serve as a bulwark against shared social challenges that have long plagued both nations. Crucially, an atmosphere of peace has the potential to catalyze remarkable advancements in human development indices for both countries. So, the urgency to seek reconciliation and foster mutual understanding has never been more crucial than at present. The time has come for both nations to rise above historical grievances and embark on a transformative path toward a brighter future filled with shared aspirations and progress.
Pakistan and India toward improving their trade and economy by working together. According to the World Bank report, India and Pakistan’s trade could increase from $2 billion to $37 billion if both countries took steps toward removing tariff barriers, strict visa procedures, and waiting periods at borders. By doing so, it would have many other benefits, like boosting investment in education, health, development, and green technologies. Prominent Indian politician and writer Shashi Tharoor emphasizes the significance of trade between India and Pakistan, saying that ” Trade between India and Pakistan has significant potential to transform the relations between India and Pakistan, fostering mutual prosperity and bridging the gaps of mistrust“. France and Germany have a long history of wars with one another but still, they made peace and started trade with one another. Similarly, Pakistan and India could also take their animosity aside and explore their trade and economic potentials. So, if both countries started to explore and work with one another on trade, millions of people could benefit.
India and Pakistan’s trade could increase from $2 billion to $37 billion if both countries took steps toward removing tariff barriers, strict visa procedures, and waiting periods at borders.
Another boon of peace between the two neighboring countries is combined action against social problems. Both countries are encountering multiple social issues, including gender equality, poor education standards, and climate change. In the gender equality index, both countries have an equally dismal record. According to the latest Global Gender Gap report released by World Economic Forum (WEF), India and Pakistan are at 135 and 145 respectively. Similarly, in education, there are many out-of-school children in both countries. According to United Nations International Children’s Emergency Funds (UNICEF), Pakistan has 22.8 million children aged five to six who are out of school while the number is six million in India, which is slightly smaller. Other than the above, climate change is another issue on which both countries can work together and mitigate. As it was reported in 2021 that just over a third of the most polluted cities were reported to be in India (19) and Pakistan (3). Therefore instead of working as an individual, if both neighbors work together on these issues, then it will have sound and good results.
Furthermore, improvement in the Human Development Index (HDI) can be brought about if both countries make peace. According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) report on human development, Pakistan and India stand at 162 and 132 respectively. HDI can be improved by focusing on regional cooperation in sectors such as healthcare, education, and sanitation. Similarly, by sharing best practices, pooling resources, and engaging in joint initiatives, both countries could gain benefit from improved access to quality services, which will positively impact their HDI rankings. By the same token, a peaceful environment encourages foreign investment, and tourism, and improves overall well-being. Most importantly, if peace is achieved, then both states can reduce their exorbitant defense expenditures. Through that expenditure, both can develop their people and give them the tools to live a life of dignity and not one of poverty, neglect, and humiliation.
According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) report on human development, Pakistan and India stand at 162 and 132 respectively
In light of these facts, the myriad advantages of peace between Pakistan and India transcend geographical boundaries and historical disputes. The potential for economic, social, and political benefits stands as a testament to the transformative power of peaceful relations. By setting aside their differences and forging a path of cooperation, both nations have the opportunity to unlock unprecedented social, political, and economic prosperity. As India and Pakistan chart a course towards peace, their journey embodies the potential for a brighter future, not just for themselves, but for the entire South Asian region. By embracing collaboration over conflict, they can set an inspiring precedent for international diplomacy, reminding us of the enduring power of cooperation in advancing the collective human experience. Leaders on both sides must recognize the collective potential that can be harnessed through mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. As history has shown, the dividends of peace are immeasurable, offering a brighter and more harmonious future for generations to come.
About The Author
Ishtiaq Azher graduated from National institute of Pakistan Studies (NIPS) , Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad. He is interested in writing on Sociopolitical issues and Foreign relations of Pakistan.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the original author and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views of Rationale-47.
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