The conflicts in Indo-China and the accompanying machinations of foreign powers contributed to preventing the development of a spirit of understanding and rapprochement among the countries of this continent.
The end of the wars in that area in 1975 definitely marks a turning point in the history of this Continent because, after several decades, there is universal or almost universal peace prevailing in Asia. This serves to release national energies towards the tasks of nation-building, and economic reconstruction comes to occupy the foremost place among the preoccupations of nations. We have, before us, the example of the European Continent, which, released at long last from a continual chain of wars and conflicts covering almost 100 years, has been able to record some impressive economic gains. Consequently, we too are hopeful that, released from the curse of wars, a similar future awaits Asia and its people.
Arising from this, it is only natural that in the changed political climate even those Asians who were hitherto barely on speaking terms should seek to reverse this unhappy state-of affairs and at least establish normal relations and avenues of contact. In South East Asia we have already witnessed a kind of break-through in the relations between Kampuchea (Cambodia) and Thailand. I am optimistic about a similar achievement in the relations between the Indo-China States, on the one hand, and the rest of South East Asia on the other.
Consequently, it was right that India and China, too, should take a fresh look at their relations. India's initiative, in this regard has recently borne fruit in the decision of India and China to re-establish ambassadorial relations. We hope this will lead to normalisation of India-China relations. I am confident nevertheless, that if China, too, shows interest in the relations to this end, normalisation of our political relations is not an impossible target.
Relations with Pakistan
India had in the past taken the initiative on several occasions to establish peaceful relations with Pakistan in spite of three wars being thrust upon her. After 1971, India took the initiative in proposing talks and after the conclusion of the Simla Agreement withdrew its troops from the occupied areas of Pakistan to return their territory and also released the prisoners-of-war. This was followed by agreements aimed at normalisation of relations. In the same spirit India has once again as a gesture of goodwill suggested restoration of diplomatic relations and other severed links between India and Pakistan.
A state of peace and tranquility in Asia would be the greatest achievement of this ancient continent, and its message of peace, like the messages of its earlier philosophers and religious leaders, would reverberate throughout the rest of the world.
