IN a rare exhibition of unanimity, all political parties and independent members in the National Assembly have vowed to defend the honour and dignity of the country in case of any possible aggression by its eastern neighbour. The resolution has come at the end of a heated debate over India's blame game, implicating Pakistan in Mumbai terror attacks. Despite fiery speeches by a number of legislators, the wording of the resolution remained balanced. The resolution condemned the Mumbai terror attacks in no uncertain terms and extended sympathies to the families of the victims and the people of India. Pakistan, which observes tomorrow the first death anniversary of its charismatic leader and twice elected Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, is itself a victim of the worst kind of terrorism. Terrorists continue to strike deep inside the country, targeting Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta and Peshawar, besides numerous other cities. Many legislators in the National Assembly, particularly those from the NWFP and tribal areas, have had firsthand knowledge of the devastation caused by misled fanatics and foreign agents. Quite a few had lost family members or friends in terrorist attacks. They also took note of the fact that India too needed to dismantle its own terror outfits, affecting peace in the region. The House made it known that all parties across the political divide wanted "constructive engagement" with India and supported the government's efforts for regional peace. The resolution expressed the commitment of the nation to the elimination of terrorism in all forms and manifestations from the region. The House however took serious note of the war hype being created by the Indian media, defence officials and government leaders. This was unnecessary in view of Islamabad's offer of full cooperation in investigation and its efforts to defuse tensions, which the National Assembly fully endorsed. It was also irresponsible, as both sides were in possession of nuclear weapons. While asserting a commitment to peace, the resolution made it amply clear that the nation was united and prepared to defend itself in case it was subjected to aggression. New Delhi needs to take note of the desire for regional peace and prosperity on the part of the entire political spectrum represented in Pakistan's National Assembly. To ensure this, the resolution calls for building confidence and mutual trust, amicably resolving all outstanding disputes particularly Kashmir, and establishing friendly and good neighbourly relations on the basis of equality and mutual trust. Will India take the olive branch? Will it opt for a course that alone can ensure a bright future for both countries, or go for a war that will destroy much of what has been built through decades of sacrifice and hard work on both sides?