NP Kashmir: Line of Control

[jbor]

Colin Powell's long-standing ambition to broker a peace deal between
Pakistan and India over the disputed Kashmir border region may yet be
another positive outcome of the way a global coalition against terrorism and
propaganda is emerging.

'Pakistan to welcome U.S. assistance on Kashmir issue'

http://www.paknews.com/

http://www.rediff.com/news/sep/29powell.htm

The sensible and competent manner with which the Bush administration has
handled events since members of an identified terrorist network mass
murdered thousands of American people with cold calculation has been quite
astonishing. Like many people here -- and all around the world I imagine --
I expected and feared the worst from the U.S. When there were explosions in
Kabul only about 8 or so hours after the attacks it was the immediate
thought of the CNN and other reporters and commentators that U.S.
retaliation was beginning. This emphasised two things: instant and
indiscriminate retribution was expected; and, it was considered possible.
But that's not what happened at all. Diplomatic negotiations proceeded in a
calm and inclusive way over the next few weeks, as evidence on the
perpetrators was collected. An international consensus was sought and
ascertained. The regime in Afghanistan was given a way out. Several times.
Finally, when the certainty of bin Laden's guilt and the complicity and
obstinacy of the Taliban were established beyond doubt, the difficult but
necessary decision to take military action was made. So far, only one U.S.
bomb has gone astray. The food and pamphlets dropped to give aid and comfort
to the Afghani people has been a gesture of sincere goodwill, and one which
has been received as such. All of this, as well as the sensitive way that
the grief and anger of the U.S. people was managed by the President, has
resulted in a complete turnaround in the way that the Bush administration is
perceived and, should his term continue in this manner, how his name will be
written down in the history books.

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