Indian myopic, jingoistic foreign policy leading to self destruction: Former envoy Salman Bashir

115

ISLAMABAD, Sep 16 (APP): A number of former foreign secretaries and ambassadors Wednesday said that short-sighted and chauvinistic foreign policy being pursued by Indian government was proving as juggernaut, negatively impinging upon its economy and aggravating the communal divide.

Taking part in a panel discussion held here at the Information Services Academy titiled “Decoding Indian foreign policy in the regional and global context,” the former diplomats, who had served Pakistan with their meritorious services, also explained that Indian foreign policy was historically deeply rooted in Pakistan bashing sentiments and garnered through nationalistic feelings recently stirred by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) inspired Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led government.

Former foreign secretary and envoy Salman Bashir said that Indian foreign policy was demonstrated through its conduct.  It had a historical perspective because India was a product of colonial occupation and exploitation and packaged by its former colonial rulers. “Now, Indian union is fragile one harmed by xenophobia and Islamophobia sentiments. It will do no good to India,” he added.

Bashir further said that Hindutva policy of Modi’s government was pushing India back into the dark ages, harming its economy and aggravating the communal strife. He said India would not reconcile with Pakistan under its current policy. “India cannot graduate beyond South Asia unless it respects its neighbours,” he added.Secretary Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Akbar Durrani was also present on the occasion. On the occasion, a documentary highlighting Indian hegemonic designs, its ties and recent tussles with its neighbours was also screened.