Is Pakistan really resuming trade with India?

This will probably be the biggest foreign policy move in last few years. One that would resonate with the voices shared from the west. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's recent statement - only one month into the office - is raising eye brows, scratching heads and bringing smiles on many faces all at the same time.

Two neighbors have virtually halted diplomatic relationship to bottom since India's unilateral change of Jammu and Kashmir status. Pakistan's constant voice raising and highlighting the issue hasn't done much to compel India or global powers to have it undone. Voting in J&K will pretty much somber the mood and offer some political ground to BJP as well.

While India's economy has continued to thrive owing to factors such as industrial growth, foreign investments, rising domestic power and buoyant IT industry, Pakistan's been teetering at the edge. Resumptions of trade ties with India may not add trade surplus to Pakistan but will certainly bring efficiencies to the industry, economy and employment pool.

Being close to industrial super power can offer great opportunities to countries sharing 2000 miles of border easily accessible by road and potential railways. Even today many goods travel back to Pakistan via Dubai so the symbolic geo political overture may actually be toned down under the garb of regional peace and economic development without compromising supporting the Kashmir cause.

Current leadership of PMLN remains ideal candidate to reengage with India after their general election and use Sharif-Modi ties to give peace a chance and create a win-win situation. Economic engagement after Modi may not be that easy either as hard(er)liners are rife in BJP that is set to rule another term.

For Pakistan, all efforts should be made to enhance economic competitiveness. First steps could be allowing trade of necessities such as agriculture, medicine, industrial raw material, cotton etc that can be imported at cheaper rates giving impetus to domestic industries and job market. People to people contact should be revived with resuming cricket diplomacy. Peace is pricey but worth it.