An article by Teresita C. Schaffer expressing cautious optimism for the continuation of a tenuous ceasefire in Kashmir.
The year 2000 ended on a hopeful note in Kashmir, with India’s ceasefire for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan being extended until January 26. The principal Kashmiri political umbrella group seems interested in a dialogue with New Delhi, and the Pakistan military has withdrawn some forces from the Line of Control separating them from Indian units. All three constituencies now must consider who will talk, about what, and how they can continue the momentum. Discreet diplomatic encouragement from the United States has helped the process thus far, but the heavy lifting needs to be done in Delhi, Islamabad and Srinagar.
Originally published in the Center for Strategic & International Studies‘ South Asia Monitor on January 1, 2001. Read the entire article.