‘Challenges and possible pathways for recalibrating Pakistan-India relations’

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): The Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS), Islamabad, hosted a Catalyst Conversation on the recently published book, Pakistan-India Relations: Fractured Past, Uncertain Future. The author of the book, Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry (Retd) provided a nuanced exploration of the evolution of bilateral ties, the structural impediments to peace, and the possible pathways for recalibrating relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The event was attended by members of academia and intellectuals. As an independent think tank, CASS continues to arrange academic events for academia and practitioners interested in National Security in its wider context.
Air Commodore Raza Haider (Retd), Director at CASS, moderated the session and introduced the new CASS series, “Author’s Talk.” In his opening remarks, he posed two key questions: why Pakistan’s relations with India remain fractured despite leadership efforts, and why the future of Pak-India relations appears uncertain. He enlightened that the author’s deep diplomatic experience and research would provide a strong foundation for an engaging and insightful discussion.
The keynote speaker and author of the book, Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry (Retd), identified four fundamental causes of the disconnect between Pakistan and India: (1) deep-rooted historical mistrust, (2) territorial disputes emerging after Partition, including Jammu & Kashmir etc. (3) India’s exploitation and narration of the cross-border terrorism narrative in the post-9/11 era, and (4) India’s hegemonic aspirations under the Hindutva doctrine. Addressing the uncertain future, he emphasised four essential steps for Pakistan: (1) remain open to dialogue without appearing either insistent or dismissive, (2) maintain robust military preparedness against any misadventure, (3) transition from a traditional to a comprehensive security framework, and (4) actively promote Pakistan’s perspective through effective narrative building.
Concluding the session, Air Marshal Javaid Ahmed (Retd), President CASS, highlighted that the book, Pakistan–India Relations: Fractured Past, Uncertain Future, has acquired even greater relevance in the aftermath of the May 2025 military clash between Pakistan and India, which has further intensified the longstanding rivalry between the two countries. He emphasised the importance of articulating and promoting Pakistan’s narrative more effectively and convincingly, particularly in countering India’s propaganda in both 2019 and May 2025 conflicts.