Since coming to power after the May 2013 general elections, the PML-N government has time and again displayed inclination towards normalization of relationships with India. Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, has made a conscious effort to shift the focus from age-old disputes to endless possibilities of the future. This is why the PM prefers sharing his vision for enhanced trade and exchange programmes, and avoids discussing catalytic issues such as Kashmir, Siachen etc. Now, that is not to say that the government doesn’t aim to solve these key issues, but only that it now understands the importance of broadening the scope of communication. A security-centric policy has resulted in a seemingly unbreakable deadlock, never allowing the interests of the two countries to converge on any point. It is always preferable if the nature of inter-state affairs is determined by mutual interests, rather than contrasting objectives.
After fourteen long years, a meeting between Director-General Military Operations (DGMO) of India and Pakistan took place on Tuesday, at the Wagah border. Despite a ceasefire agreement between the two countries, there have been numerous incidents along the Line of Control (LoC). The top-most priority, as revealed by security officials, was to formulate a plan to ensure the curtailment of ceasefire violations on the LoC.  It has been claimed so far that the traditional rivals met in a positive atmosphere, but whether this friendly posturing will translate into a revised modus operandi, only time will tell. For now, the gathering itself is good news. It only became possible due to efforts by PM Sharif, who proposed the plan to Indian PM, Manmohan Singh, along the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Terming it a groundbreaking development, perhaps, would be acting over enthusiastically, but even a minor twitch is quite an achievement for a body which hasn’t moved for years. 
However, this is not the first time that we have taken a step towards the right direction, only to be forced to deviate from the track sooner or later. The neighbours have had their moments; entertaining cricket, cross-border travel. But, what has always been lacking is a sustainable policy, which is necessary to reshape the association. To achieve that, it is a matter of critical importance that the political and military leadership are on the same page with regards to India. The government has to ensure that the security/strategic concerns of the military are given due consideration. Therefore, it is advisable to keep the process inclusive of military input. A lasting solution is one that is agreed upon by all involved, anything else will prove to be a temporary arrangement. The PM must continue with his efforts. It’s a long journey; all that is needed is that we keep walking.