In 2017, the Chao Track was expanded by opening this forum to young leaders and mid-career professionals, bringing a fresh outlook to contentious issues plaguing the two countries. The forum has shown that diversity, innovation, and fresh ideas are just as valuable as extensive experience.

The Emerging Leaders Dialogue seeks to tap into the vast potential of young people as influencers in their respective fields, in and across borders. The forum covers a range of topics from nationalism, identity politics, and extremism to tensions in Kashmir, censorship, and improving livelihoods across South Asia. It has allowed for important discussions on sensitive topics, and the chance for change-makers to highlight areas of collaboration that offer a glimmer of hope in an otherwise grim landscape.

With technology tearing down barriers, the possibilities for engagement are more present than ever. While those in power swing between impasse and aggression, these person-to-person interactions between Indians and Pakistanis can lead to real incremental change.

The joint recommendations coming out of the forum focus on using new methods of communication, taking into account strict visa controls which otherwise inhibit people-to-people contact. Suggestions included a multimedia series, including films and documentaries, focusing on populism and misogyny, and conferences integrating academic expertise on regional issues with The Chao Track.