Mehbooba Mufti Pitches J&K as 'Bridge of Peace' Between India, Pakistan, and China
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on July 1 proposed that the Central government transform Jammu and Kashmir into a gateway connecting South and Central Asia, leveraging its geographical position to improve ties with Pakistan and China.
Speaking at an event, Mufti emphasised that the region's strategic location could be used to foster economic and diplomatic cooperation, rather than remain a source of conflict. She described the vision as making Jammu and Kashmir a 'bridge of peace' between India and its neighbours.
Mufti's statement comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan over cross-border terrorism and the ongoing dispute over Kashmir. The PDP leader has long advocated for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue, often suggesting that the region's unique position could serve as a hub for regional integration.
Her proposal, however, drew mixed reactions. While some analysts see it as a constructive step towards de-escalation, others caution that any such initiative would require consensus among multiple stakeholders, including the Central government and local political entities.
The Centre has not officially responded to Mufti's suggestion. Historically, India has maintained that normalisation of ties with Pakistan is contingent on an end to cross-border terrorism, while Pakistan has called for a resolution of the Kashmir dispute as a precondition for dialogue.
Mufti's remarks also touched on China's role, given its Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. She argued that Jammu and Kashmir could benefit from similar connectivity projects if peace prevails.
The PDP, which has previously been in power in the erstwhile state (before its reorganisation into Union territories in 2019), has consistently advocated for a political solution in Kashmir. Mufti's latest proposal aligns with her party's stance of using diplomacy and economic engagement to ease tensions.
Observers note that the idea of using Jammu and Kashmir as a bridge is not new; it has been floated by various leaders in the past. However, the current geopolitical climate, including India's strained relations with both Pakistan and China, makes its implementation challenging.
As of now, no concrete steps have been taken by the government to pursue such a vision. The article reiterated that any change in policy would require careful consideration of national security interests and regional dynamics.
