In the last two weeks, there has been a lot of hue and cry in the media and by some politicians regarding the Gen Raheel Sharif’s alleged appointment as leader of the Saudi-led Muslim Countries’ military alliance. I thought that the people of Pakistan would be feeling pride that a retired General from our country has been considered the most appropriate to lead a combined force of 19 or so Muslim countries. The apprehension of those who started questioning his alleged appointment was apparently based on the assumption that the so called Muslim Force is against Iran and Yemen, etc. This way of thinking, if at all true, is not only absurd but also lacks good sense.
At times, we tend to be playing in to the hands of the vested powers, not realising the importance of such an appointment in the long run. If this materialises, it will employ hundreds of our military advisers. One should see that in the times to come this can provide a big boost to our economy as well as a platform to overturn Indian designs to isolate Pakistan.
I am sure that the retired General is very mature and will never allow any force to be used against any Muslim country. I hope that our politicians by now do understand this and do not make any hasty decisions.
Rashid Maqsood
Lahore
