Topic: India and Pakistan
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Elizabeth Liquigli
School: Forest Hills Northern High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All United Kingdom position papers GLIMUN 2008 committees
India and Pakistan share a history that is greatly entwined with that of the United Kingdom, having once been one colony under British rule. When divided into a Hindu majority, India, and a Muslim majority, Pakistan, there came issues concerning borders and land rights. One of these major conflicts was the territory known as Kashmir. Leading to three major wars between the countries of India and Pakistan, the disputed territory of Kashmir needs a definitive conclusion before the next chapter of Indian-Pakistani relations can commence.
The United Kingdom believes that if the issue of Kashmir is not resolved in a timely manner then, both nations being in possession of nuclear arms, nuclear warfare might break out. As a supporter of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the United Kingdom would strongly advise the exploration of all other avenues before such extremes become necessary. Although the fate of Kashmir is uncertain at this time, there are many possible outcomes as to the borders and ultimate nationality of Kashmir. These various outcomes include: Kashmir belonging to and of Pakistan, Kashmir joining India, and independent Kashmir, or a division of Kashmir along the River Chenab.
The United Kingdom would entertain and possibly support any solution that would bring peace and stability to the region of Kashmir. In case of any peaceable outcome, India and Pakistan will need the help and mediation of the United Nations. With the current state of the Pakistani government, the United Kingdom recognizes that negotiations and communications between the two nations will be that much more strained. However the United Kingdom does believe that open communication is the only way that they two nations will find peace within their shared borders.
