- Shared History and Human Connections Can Keep the Spirit of Friendship Alive
NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) publicity chief Sunil Ambekar has emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan, saying that human connections and cultural exchanges can play a vital role in keeping hopes for better relations alive.
Speaking during an interaction with reporters at the Pune Union of Working Journalists, Ambekar said that official dialogues between governments, militaries and institutions had not produced lasting results, highlighting the need for ordinary citizens of both countries to remain connected.
“Whatever dialogue has taken place between governments, armies and agencies has not succeeded so far. Therefore, people-to-people connection is important,” Ambekar said, according to the Press Trust of India (PTI).
Citizens as a Bridge of Peace and Understanding
Ambekar clarified that earlier remarks by senior RSS leaders, including Dattatreya Hosabale and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, focused on strengthening bonds between people rather than suggesting formal diplomatic negotiations.
He said government-to-government talks involve complex matters of national interest and should remain the responsibility of official channels.
“Whether governments should hold talks or not is a matter of diplomacy involving national interests and sensitive issues,” Ambekar said, adding that decisions on foreign policy should be handled by governments.
Shared Culture and Memories of Togetherness
Ambekar stressed that people-to-people interactions between India and Pakistan should continue, describing them as a way to preserve shared cultural memories, traditions and human relationships that connect communities across the border.
He pointed to existing exchanges, including medical travel and trade, as examples of how ordinary citizens continue to maintain links despite political challenges.
“People-to-people dialogue is very important and should continue. It should not be viewed as political diplomacy,” he said.
Hope for a Future of Cooperation
The remarks highlight the idea that lasting peace between neighboring nations is not built only through official agreements but also through understanding, compassion and communication among ordinary people.
Millions of families on both sides share historical, cultural and emotional ties, and continued people-to-people contact can help create an atmosphere of trust and goodwill for future generations.
BY: The Times Union – PTI
