I refer to your thought-provoking editorial Imran Khan has a real opportunity to end India-Pakistan conflict (July 30): it is true that Mr Khan will have a tough job managing the military in Pakistan after he assumes the office of prime minister, if he leans towards friendship with India. You are right that it will be a "baptism by fire" if he tries to control the military on foreign policy. The fact is that if Mr Khan gets into a conflict with the military in Pakistan, he will be eased out.
The military is the most powerful group in Pakistan. It will continue to be so. In 70 years of Pakistan’s history, whenever any prime minister has confronted the military, he or she has been ousted or exiled.
The military will always be dominant in Pakistan because it has ensured that the country shares its paranoia about India. In my opinion, Indians would love to live in peace with Pakistan. But if Indians and Pakistanis embrace each other, then the supremacy of the military in Pakistan would be diluted. The raison d’etre of Pakistan’s military is an unfounded phobia of India. It might not have a large say or role in the country if India and Pakistan co-operate. The best that we can hope for is continuing efforts towards peace between the two countries, without another armed conflict. Mr Khan might have to accept this bitter truth and foster friendship between the people of both nations.
Rajendra Aneja, Dubai
Youngsters need experience in the UAE’s private sector
I write in reference to your editorial Helping youngsters to enter private sector is crucial (July 30): this was an interesting read. The proposal to allow students over the age of 15 to take up part-time private sector jobs is a good and welcome gesture. It will pave the way for them to enter high-level jobs and this part-time experience will help. In the West, many students are being encouraged to do part-time jobs and internships to gain experience and meet their study expenses.
K Ragavan, Denver
Abandoned Gussy’s plight tugs at our heartstrings
In reference to your story Abandoned Abu Dhabi cat Gussy receives 'overwhelming' response from readers (July 23), Gussy is but one of thousands of stray and abandoned cats and dogs in the UAE. This is a huge problem, which anyone involved in any way with stray and abandoned animals would know. Why shouldn't this receive attention? Humans throw their unwanted pets away like garbage and it takes others with a heart to pick up the pieces. If a cat sitting at a bus stop loyally for weeks, waiting for a cold, heartless owner to return, doesn't tug at the heartstrings, I don't know what will.
Elize van Wyk, Dubai
I gave a home to an abandoned cat tossed into the street. It cost me a fortune in vet bills because he needed an operation but I’m so glad he is part of our family now. He is very special. I just feel heartbroken for all the other cats and dogs out there on the streets.
Michelle Grissa, Dubai
