Convincing Pakistanis about our good intentions is not going to be easy, since its military rulers have a vested interest in perpetuating popular suspicion about India. Nevertheless, we should persist in conveying our fraternal feelings and thoughts to them. It is time for us to make them believe that they have no truer friend in the world than the people of India. Once a critical mass of Pakistanis is convinced that India can be a helpful partner in the pursuit of peace, progress and democracy, we can together change the history of our subcontinent.

For this to happen, we must begin by shouting ‘Jamhooriyat Zindabad’ loudly enough for people across the border to hear our voice of support and solidarity. It should be heard as the voice of a sincere brother and neighbour, more trustworthy than any they might have heard so far from Washington, London and Beijing.