The enmity between two arch rivals Pakistan and India is shifting its course and converting into much positive mindset with several public to public peace campaigns, official trade meetings and increasing business deals between the two states.
Coming face to face in four lethal wars since partition, both the countries decides to adopt trade, negotiation and table talk process to find a way to progress, realizing war is no ultimate solution to achieve mutual goals.
From the last few years, Pakistan has taken major steps to improve the halted relations and friendly ties between the two States. The most important stride in the way to excel peace process is the granting of MFN Status to India, expected to be shifted to India by the end of this year.
The setting up of two commercial banks each at both sides of territories, the resumption of cricket series and new trade agreements all got possible due to this MFN Status, a positive step initiated by Pakistan.
Aiming to strengthen trade and fasten business ties, India and Pakistan agreed to allow two banks each from both the countries to set up branches across the border, agreeing to issue a full banking license as well.
The two Pakistani banks that will be running full-banking operations across the border are state-owned National Bank of Pakistan and privately-owned United Bank. On the other hand, State Bank of India (SBI) and Bank of India (BoI) are allowed to operate operations in Pakistan, once licensed by both the countries.
These developments are part of efforts made by the two countries over the past many months to step up trade and economic relations.
Moreover, in a major decision taken two months back, India allowed investment from Pakistan paving the way for Islamabad to normalise economic ties by implementing much-delayed Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status for New Delhi.
Responding to this, Pakistan agreed to lift a restriction on trade through the Wagah-Attari land route for all commodities by the end of October this year.
With these steps being taken, two sides have also agreed to increase the Trade between India and Pakistan to $6 billion by 2014, worth more than $2 billion at present.
The recent thaw in relations has been led by significant moves on the trade and commercial fronts by both countries which must be continued. The future of both the countries lies on the better ties at present.
The core issues of Kashmir, Siachen, Sir Creek and many others ought to be dealt with dialogues and table talk process. The immediate solution of these issues will certainly guarantee shining future of both the states.