FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURS
The write up: Neighbours matter, so acknowledge them (KT, March 1) made some valid observations and emphasised the importance of acknowledging and knowing the neighbours. Urban spaces are no more than concrete jungles, where one can feel lonely sometimes. Knowing neighbours and interacting with them helps. There’s no denying that good interactions are uplifting, emotionally and psychologically. Simple talking can pave way for development of talents and shedding of inhibitions that prevent us from accepting our shortcomings and moving forward in life. More than that if neighbours share common interests, skills can be honed and perfected, too. Think of physical fitness training, mindfulness practice, self-improvement skills, etc. Besides, there’s always much to learn from the other person’s experiences.
Good neighbourly relations can provide support system that sometimes we yearn for. But, the key is to always remember to respect the boundaries. —Latha Narasimhan, Sharjah
No one wants war
The release of Indian pilot by Pakistan authorities was a good development. It indicates the progress being made in the relations between the two countries and raises hopes of dialogue. Three countries, namely the US, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, should be commended for their influence in dissuading the two governments from escalating tensions. Ultimately, no country wants war. Pakistan should work at eradicating terror from its soil.
—K. Ragavan, Bengaluru, India
OIC can influence change
This refers to the report OIC foreign ministers call for peace (KT, March 2). In the past few decades, countries across the world have been spending heavily to fight terrorism. The fight against terror is to safeguard humanity. And in this context, India’s External Affairs Minister’s presence at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation is inspiring. In this complex society, it is the responsibility of every government to emphasise that terrorism in every aspect is undermining the development of the world, and eventually destroying precious lives. The OIC member countries can influence change. They can help save children, who are often the worst affected in civil unrest.
It’s heartbreaking that governments are unable to quell terrorism and related activities leading to more woes for the people, who have a right to live with dignity and without fear. Political mediation, rather than aggression and empty threats, may be the ideal way to address core issues. History reveals that man-made errors will continue to happen and a simple word like ‘regret’ cannot justify when such actions turn to disasters and get out of control.
—Ramachandran Nair, Muscat, Oman
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