It is imperative for Pakistan to become a modern, democratic and progressive Muslim state as envisioned by its founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Politicians, military and civilian establishment must change their old security paradigm and foreign policy to put the Pakistan on road to progress. It is a known fact that the national security of any country does not depend on the piles of the nukes but depends on prosperity of its citizens. The stronger a country economically is, the stronger are its defences.
Instead of investing in illusionary security protection, the investment should be made in science and technology, education and enlarging the industrial base to ensure the countrys security. India is not likely to attack Pakistan to occupy it; therefore having a mindset of India as a main threat to Pakistan must be changed.
By strengthening the SAARC and allowing free movement of goods and peoples among SAARC countries, including Afghanistan and Iran, a revolution of prosperity in South Asia can be achieved and the prevailing poverty and illiteracy which is the worst enemy can be eliminated. Why do we not learn from European countries who have been fighting for hundreds of years but are now have common currency and free movement of people?
Pakistan is blessed with tremendous national resources and talented hard working people. It can become one of the most prosperous nations if it has competent visionary leadership to harness its potential. Unfortunately, after the Quaid-e-Azam we dont have leaders who were able to see beyond their noses and self-interest.
Let us not forget the 1940 resolution which led to the creation of Pakistan and which clearly stated that Pakistan will comprise of federating units having rights on their natural resources. A concept of having strong centre will never ensure harmony among the federating units. We must develop ability to learn from history and our own past mistakes.
S T HUSSAIN
Lahore