Grave misgivings

The forebodings expressed by Bhutto are more widespread in Pakistan than would appear the case at first glance. In an editorial comment, one of the country8217;s leading newspapers, Dawn, chastised the political establishment for its 8220;marked diplomatic failure8221; to sell its policy on Kargil.

What thenewspaper does not state, of course, is that it is impossible to hawk such a duplicitous policy even with the best of diplomatic talent. What seems to be a source of constant worry to Pakistan8217;s political analysts is the perception that India has achieved a significant breakthrough in its relations with the US in the wake of the outbreak of hostilities at the LoC, even while Pakistan has damaged its own case. The unequivocal stand that US President Bill Clinton took on Kargil has only strengthened this view.

In his recent telephone call to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Clinton is believed to have observed that he did not see how progress can be made on the issue, until Pakistani forces are withdrawn.

The fact of the matter is that there is increasing international disquiet over Pakistan8217;s domestic and foreign policies. While its attempts to export holy wars in Afghanistan and Kashmir have not been appreciated, there is also healthy scepticism about that country8217;s democratic credentials. Awell-known American thinktank, Stimson Center, in its recent news advisory, wonders aloud where Pakistan as a nation is heading in the light of its latest military manoeuvres.

The role of the Pakistan army in its domestic affairs is also the focus of some concern. Western intelligence agencies have hinted that elements in the Pakistan army are keen to use the flashpoint at Kargil to shore up their own image with the people at home, even as Nawaz Sharif, already deeply embroiled in corruption charges, is sidelined and finally ousted. These reports and analyses may suffer from being excessively speculative, but even if their veracity is in doubt, the mere fact that they are doing the rounds indicates the extent of international scepticism about the Pakistani project and the government8217;s inherent lack of credibility.

From all indications, the G-8 statement on the Kargil will put on record the international consensus that Pakistan must withdraw from Indian territory forthwith. Pakistan would do well to heedthe world on this score. Otherwise its moral bankruptcy will become as visible to the rest of the world as its financial bankruptcy.