Test of Friendship with Immediate Neighbours
India's relations with Pakistan have somewhat improved, but the process started long before the Janata Government came into power. It was started during the time of the previous Government. When Bangladesh emerged, .there was strife and conflict in the sub-continent. After its emergence and the end of the war that brought about the birth of the new country, there was a new phase. During this period the Simla agreement and thereafter a series of agreements between India and Pakistan came into being. The relationship between the two countries had steadily improved.
I am glad to note that the new Government has tried to carry the process of bilateralism forward. But let it not be under the impression that by getting agreements on minor matters, any substantical achievement has been made.
The other day, members of this House were trying to elicit information from the Government on what Pakistan was doing in the nuclear field and what agreements it had reached with China, France and other countries. They also wanted to know what Pakistan's intentions were. It is clear from the members' reactions that there is need for constant vigilance about Pakistan's intention and preparations. I hope the Government is fully aware of this need.
India's relations with Nepal have always been good. The country had misgivings about certain aspects of the relationship and was interested in some sort of a separate transit agreement. If one shows weakness and gives the Nepalese two agreements instead of one — an agreement for trade and another for transit —this might create problems. The Government should take care not to be led into a situation where it could sow the seeds of danger. The Government is, I fear, becoming unrealistic about India's relations with the neighbours. The neighbours may be small, but India should take into consideration the feeling they may have about India's size. India should no doubt be considerate, but let us not be swept of our feet by accepting unreasonable positions.
If one were to ask me what is the criterion of good relations and friendliness with Nepal, I would say the real test is their intention on the common river projects for Nepal and India. Every year when Parliament discusses agricultural demands, the question of floods in this country comes up. India has not been successful in working out details of river projects with Nepal. India has floods every year in the northern region. This question has been raised many times, and there has been some feeble response to it, but nothing further. No progress has been made.
