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Success of bus diplomacy doubtful, says Jethmalani

The current efforts to cross bridges by India and Pakistan was bound to improve frigid relations, but the long-standing boundary dispute could only be solved by "some give and take", said Urban Affairs Minister Ram Jethmalani.

Asked about the dividends expected from Prime Minister A B Vajpayee's visit to Lahore and the reciprocal visit expected from Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharief, Jethmalani said, "I can't be too sure about it, but I think it is a welcome thing. There will be no loss at least. It is something that cannot hurt us."

Jethmalani said he was not too optimistic because the border dispute was a long-standing irritant in the relations.

"Ultimately it can only be solved by some give and take. How much give and take is required has to be worked out intelligently, in a spirit of friendship and confidence," he said. Once friendship and confidence was established, the problems would become easier to solve, he said, adding, "If one party has to get hundred per cent of what it stands for, it can only be achieved by war."

Supporting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah's suggestion that the line of control be made the permanent international border between India and Pakistan, Jethmalani said it was one sensible solution.

"Well, I personally feel that was the secret agreement between (then prime minister) Indira Gandhi and (then Pakistan premier) Z A Bhutto. Unfortunately, that has not been properly recorded... But some circumstantial evidence is there because Bhutto went and annexed all territories after that. We did not object. Obviously there was some understanding."

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