India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, recently addressed the status of trade between India and Pakistan, clarifying a key point about their commercial relationship. During a press conference in Washington D.C., Jaishankar stated that India did not initiate the halt in trade between the two countries. Instead, he emphasized that it was the Pakistani government that decided to stop trade back in 2019. This clarification aims to correct misunderstandings about which nation is responsible for the current trade situation.
The minister explained that the decision to cease trade was made solely by Pakistan’s government, not by India. Consequently, this action directly impacted the flow of goods and services between the two nations. Moreover, India has consistently raised concerns about Pakistan’s trade policies, particularly their approach to the Most Favoured Nation status. This status, if granted, would ensure equal trade opportunities between the two countries.
Mr. Jaishankar also pointed out that these trade issues contribute to the complexities of the broader relationship between India and Pakistan. He stated firmly, “We did not stop trading. Their administration made the decision in 2019 to not continue trading with us.” These words highlight the political and economic factors that influence trade between neighboring countries. Furthermore, it shows how government decisions can have a direct effect on commercial activities.
These comments from India’s External Affairs Minister provide vital background to the ongoing narrative of the strained relationship between India and Pakistan. The minister’s clarification emphasizes that India did not take the initial action to stop trade. In summary, it was Pakistan’s decision to discontinue trade in 2019 that ultimately changed the course of their commercial interactions. This context is important for understanding the current state of affairs.