Why can’t we be friends?

This letter refers to the article ‘The paradox of US policy’ (February 17) by Ali Sarwar Naqvi. The writer has asks “how can Pakistan exercise unilateral restraint when India is fast developing its offensive military/strategic capabilities?” My answer would be to make friends with India. It is futile to expect the US to maintain a balance in defense capabilities between India and Pakistan for stability in the region. Getting rid of the age-old rivalry would actually benefit both countries.

If India is spending more on the development of its defense capabilities, it is wasting its resources, reducing funds available for economic development and social welfare and slowing its growth. Likewise, if we continue to follow India in this regard, our economy, which is already on the verge of default, will collapse. It is better to resolve our problems with India diplomatically.

Abdul Majeed

Islamabad