ISLAMABAD
\nRenowned British historian and author Victoria Schofield emphasized the complexities of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, urging policymakers and scholars to take a holistic and well-informed approach to understand the region.
\nIn a recent discussion held at the Institute of Regional Studies, Schofield underscored the historical and geopolitical intricacies that have shaped the conflict, cautioning against simplistic narratives.
\n\u201cThe Jammu and Kashmir region has always been at a crossroads\u2014geographically, historically, and politically,\u201d Schofield stated. \u201cWhile the Kashmir Valley remains central to the conflict, we must not ignore the complexities of the entire state, which also include the aspirations of the people in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK.\u201d She reiterated that people in Gilgit Baltistan don\u2019t consider themselves as Kashmiri.
\nAddressing the impact of the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian government, Schofield noted that this move has significantly altered the discourse surrounding the region. It was indeed a unilateral decision of India which negated the aspirations of the people of Indian Administered J&K.
\nSchofield also discussed the growing role of China in the region, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighting Beijing\u2019s strategic interests through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). She suggested that China\u2019s involvement may eventually influence the resolution process, given its vested economic and territorial interests.
\nOn the issue of terminology and political representation, Schofield advised scholars and media professionals to use precise language to avoid misinterpretations. \u201cIt is crucial to recognize the diverse political dynamics within different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The aspirations of the people in these regions vary, and their voices must be included in any meaningful resolution process,\u201d she asserted.
\nConcluding on a cautiously optimistic note, Schofield encouraged continued study and engagement on the issue, acknowledging that while peace prospects appear dim at present, shifting geopolitical dynamics could pave the way for renewed dialogue. \u201cThe tectonic plates of diplomacy may have shifted in recent years, but history has shown that situations evolve. It is imperative to be prepared for opportunities when they arise,\u201d she remarked.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
ISLAMABAD Renowned British historian and author Victoria Schofield emphasized the complexities of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, urging policymakers and scholars to take a holistic and well-informed approach to understand the region. In a recent discussion held at the Institute of Regional Studies, Schofield underscored the historical and geopolitical intricacies that have shaped the conflict, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":461659,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-461648","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-national"},"yoast_head":"\n