As a more stable nation in this region, it should be our endeavour to help the nations in this region, to reach a stage where they percieve economic benefits derived out of joint projects like the pipeline far outweigh the benefits attributable to hate neighbours or decimate minorities projects.Unless investments are made in such projects, the nations in this region cannot be tied down to such agreements. And once such projects(like the gas pipeline) do take shape,it will not be possible for one state to try to change the terms of business halfway as there will be agreements and punitive clauses attached if the agreements are not adhered to.So, it will be inour interest to foster such an environment where in our neighbours (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Burma, Iran, Afghanistan) etc.) start feeling that doing business with us makes very good economic sense for them.For creating such an environment, we have to make investments like money, time,materials etc., I think the idea gas pipeline was in the right direction.But it is unfortunate that US didnt like it for its own reasons. CVR Bharati
This guest columnist is a brilliant thinker that departs from the usual story and brings something most people would not think about.
Being a Pkaistani shia who not long ago had to flee Pakistan, I know first hadn the hatred towards us that elements in Pakistan feel, but I had never applied it to Indo-Iran relations.
I personally am against India's vote against Iran and hope domestic politics pressure a change in US impact on India-Iran relations.
This article by Mr Deshpande brings out the key element of rivalry between Shias and Sunnis. I for one was unaware of the extent of enmity between the two main wings of Islam. If true then as Mr Deshpande says the equations have to be reassessed very carefully. In any case unlike the ranting by the left I feel the stand taken by India on the IAEA voting was correct. India should not succumb to blackmail and one only hopes that Iran also is pramatic on this issue.
You are inconclusive. From your story, it is clear that a nuclear strong Iran will be a good deterent for Pakistan. We should support Iran becoming a nuclear state just to suit us. As US and China has made Pakistan nuclear just to take India.
YOu are just endorsing the official view, which is burdened with the US' pressure.
