In the Vcitorian pattern of conducting foreign relations, quiet diplomacy may be an advantage. But not any more. Peoples' pulse is what is ultimately needed. OUr talks with Pakistan and China are an example. The governments of the day chose to enter into talks with the objective of bringing durable peace. Both have been disappointments. The other example is the pipeline diplomacy.A commentator-cum-naval commander publicly commended secret talks. This shows how they are far removed from reality. A few weeks before news appeared in the media of some secret barter in the matter of our border disopute with China giving up something in the west for some gains in the east. Detailed news aboaut this would have cost the government dearly. This could anger the public and bring down the government. There is public apprehension that for getting the glory of settling issues unwarranted concessions would be made.
The present is not the suitable time for any susbtantial peace with either China or Pakistan for two reasons: 1) we have a government which is made of fractured coalition and 2)China and Pakistan have not shown any real concessions.
