The reversal of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)
decision on imports from India by the cabinet not only proves absence of
coordination within the government, but also shows absence of comprehension and
prudent thinking of serious matters that require sensible and level-headed
approach.
A few days ago, at a press conference, Hammad Azhar, the
newly appointed finance minister, had talked about ECC’s decision on trade
with India, was based on economic factors. Interestingly, the summary moved in
this regard was signed by Prime Minister himself.
The announcement made headlines both at home and in the neighboring
country. The decision was viewed as part of recent measures to deescalate
hostilities between Pakistan and India. Earlier, there was agreement of
ceasefire across the line of control (LoC) as well as speeches were delivered
by the Prime Minister and the Army Chief at the Islamabad Security Dialogue.
Ironically, the Federal Cabinet rejected the idea of opening
trade between the two countries, leaving both the nations and the world stunned
at the incongruence among the key facets of the government.
The debacle raises several questions that cannot be shrugged
off by ministers. It has caused embarrassment. It points to a faulty system and
also creates the impression that the key job of decision-making is conducted in
a juvenile manner.
The explanations from Federal Ministers that ECC decisions
can be overturned by the cabinet look novice. In fact Azhar at no point gave
the impression that the ‘decision’ to trade with India was just a proposal
under review.
It has now transpired that the foreign minister and some key
members of government are against the idea of trading with India until New
Delhi reviews its Kashmir policy and rescinds its decision to revoke special
status of Indian held Kashmir.
While this approach may be in line with Pakistan’s stance on
Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, it is also true that historically CBMs
have been a part of the Pakistan-India equation.
The ECC decision may have been ostensibly about trade, but
it would have needed input from all government departments, including the
security establishment. Any decision having long-term consequences just can’t
be made in isolation.
The fiasco is casting a cloud of uncertainty over Khan’s
leadership skills. As demonstrated by this latest U-turn, communication
problems, an inability to make and stick to decisions and poor
conflict-resolution skills are becoming the hallmark of this government.
The nation has a right to know who is responsible for this
debacle and what action will be taken to avoid such blunders in the future.
