The Pakistani delegation of South Asian Free Media Association (SAFMA) visiting Punjab has presented numerous radical steps for establishing peace between India and Pakistan.

The Chandigarh based newspaper Tribune India quoted the Secretary-General of the SAFMA, Mr Imtiaz Alam, to have said "We are sorry for the carnage during Partition. I had to take this burden of history off my back", he went on to add amidst thunderous applause. He was speaking at a special session, "Punjab-Punjab consultation: exploring complementarities" organised by SAFMA and the Chandigarh Press Club.

The comment was significant since governments of both nations have largely chosen to publicly ignore the tragedy and violence of partition.

Ms Tehmina Daulatana, one of the two women members of the delegation, who is also a member of the Pakistan National Assembly, said the two countries needed to move forward in mutual interest. She said there have been mistakes committed by the elders. “Maybe even we have also added to the mistakes, but we need to introspect and explore the options which help us mutually,” she added.

In addition, delegates from India and Pakistan have proposed the building of a Peace Park that would focus on mutual love and trust and present all that the people of these two countries hold common. The proposal suggests that the Park be built along the no-man’s land.

The shared cultures between the two Punjabs figured as a central piece in these speeches and discussion. The speakers also lay stress on greater ease of travel and the relaxation of visa regulations that currently exist.

Much of the discussion also focused on trade. Seeds, agricultural goods and energy were brought up during the discussion. Economic advisers from both delegations also talked about increased technological collaborations. Members of SAFMA also discussed the possibility of distribution of news print across the borders.

Mr Shahid Kardar from Pakistan was candid enough to admit that the lower literacy rates in Pakistani Punjab and the high number of people living below the poverty line were a cause of worry.

While SAFMA has been a long supporter for increased peace between India and Pakistan, it is significant that numerous political figures from the establishment and the opposition were also part of this delegation. The delegation is being led by Mr Ishaq Khan, Minister of State for Railways in the Pakistan Government. It is also significant that the speeches have been radical with the recognition of the violence during partition.

How this impacts a fresh round of peace initiatives that are expected in the coming year, is to be seen, especially with increased militancy in Indian governed sections of J&K over the winter.
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