CHANDIGARH, May 31: The Almi Punjabi Pairvar, an organisation working for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan for the last several years, has appealed to the two governments to halt the nuclear race immediately and exercise restraint to help build an atmosphere of confidence and amity between the people across the border.At its meeting held here today, the organisation expressed grave concern over the escalating tension in the region after the spate of nuclear tests by the two countries. It was felt such politics of brinkmanship would do no good to the atmosphere of cordial and friendly relations that the people of the two countries crave for.The Almi Parivar has been leading cultural delegations to Pakistan and hosting artists from across the border.``It is not the time for euphoric celebrations and the people of India and Pakistan should rise to this occasion to initiate once again the confidence building measures which have received a set-back'', said its president Harnek Singh, former minister.He suggested that instead of whipping up hostilities, the political leadership must strive to encourage people for ties which are paramount for restoring friendship between the people across the border who share a common cultural heritage and history. In this context, the Parivar recalled the positive outcome of the recent cultural exchanges between the two countries which were largely appreciated by the people on both sides.Harnek Singh appealed to the two governments to encourage such people to undertake activities which could play a crucial role in diffusing the tension and bitterness created in the aftermath of the nuclear blasts.The Parivar resolved to continue its efforts at building an atmosphere of amity between the people of India and Pakistan through its activities including exchange of cultural groups and arranging reunion of families separated during the partition in 1947 on both sides.
