Pursuing policies to strengthen the country

Of the many labels or descriptions attributed to our country the one that stands out is that it is a crisis state. Largely, this description may be apt, but so are most of the developing countries. For it is inherent for a country in development stage to go through a period of turmoil and instability. But as we have witnessed over the years if the policies pursued by the leadership are sound the country becomes politically stable in a relatively short period of time. This leads to improvement in the economy and promoting overall progress of the country. We, however, as a nation, have failed to achieve this basic goal during the last 77 years that the country has been independent. Political leadership also cannot continue to ignore the state of governance, a fundamental weakness that the country continues to suffer from and must make serious effort to improve.

Although the leadership is cognisant of the present circumstances and developments that are taking place at global and regional levels. But harmonising their responses to these forces with the interests of the country is critical. Any neglect in this direction or adoption of a wrong policy has unforeseen consequences that need to be avoided.

Moreover, as we have witnessed over the years that the role of political leadership and state institutions towards strengthening democracy has been minimal. In fact, certain policies and failings in governance have weakened democracy and there is no effort on the part of leadership towards adhering strictly to democratic norms.

This is major failing in the country's political elite and this is reflected in the fact that there is no serious effort to bring about any change from the hereditary and aristocratic model of leadership to a middle class and meritocratic one. The lingering influence of rich businessmen and military in politics must be curbed if it is flouting democratic norms whilst encouraging the emerging pattern of merit and democratic norms.

It is also important to observe if there was any cultural and social impact during the period that a certain party was in office from their policies and conduct. And how beneficial it was in improving governance and creating an environment for peace and progress.

The present state of the economy demands that political leadership seriously focus on economic development and improving the lives of the people. It is a matter of serious reflection as to how long the country will remain dependent on IMF, international agencies and Middle Eastern oil-rich countries for economic support. A country that is not economically self-sustaining is considerably restrained in making political and strategic decisions. Moreover, it affects the regional power balance. We are not seeing a determined effort at improving our technological and industrial base. It requires several well-planned policies such as enhancing educational standards, focusing on transfer of technology and developing research centres whilst promoting policies for the private sector to play a major role in developing industry and agriculture.

The role of information technology in the present world has considerably increased and has a major impact on major elements of national power. The government should fully support its development.

Population policy has been pushed in the background under pressure from certain fundamentalist groups. But allowing unrestricted population growth will have seriously adverse consequences for the economy and on governance.

It is not clear to what extent the Planning Commissions goals and recommendations are taken seriously. Although it would be in the interest of the people that these be taken seriously and implemented faithfully.

All these developments and improvements may require, in some cases, developing a revised general curriculum in which more advanced classes receive greater access to modern and useful subjects. Developing close liaison with reputed universities from advanced countries should be a part of effort toward raising educational standards. A few years back an effort in this direction was made, only to be fizzled out soon. Consistency and seriousness in implementation of plans is necessary.

Improving the security situation in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is essential. Although the security establishment has been fully focused on it and our forces have made sacrifices to counter inimical forces, the focus on economic development should also be given high priority.

Pakistan's state of relations with India remains tense and with PM Modi in power the situation is unlikely to change. Pakistan has to live with this reality in the foreseeable future. To offset this, Pakistan has already taken several measures. It has further expanded its economic relations with China and other friendly countries of southeast Asia. On the security side it is fully alert to guard and discourage against any misadventure.

Relations with Bangladesh are likely to improve with Sheikh Hasina ousted from power and exiled, and Mohamed Yunus heading the government. There is a great potential for enhancing trade and economic interaction and reviving cultural exchanges.

Relations with the US are on a low key and likely to remain so in the near future. The focus here too should be on increasing mutual trade and economic development. American universities and colleges have always been an attractive destination for Pakistani students as for others worldwide due to their high technological and scientific allure.

China clearly is Pakistan's closest ally. What is, however, encouraging is that relations with it are close and of a strategic nature. Trade and commerce with it have increased over the years that further cement the relationship. With embargoes placed by the US and certain Western countries, China remains a reliable source of military hardware and software. Pakistan's major weapon systems of three services are mostly of Chinese origin. China has significantly contributed to strengthening Pakistan's technological and industrial base. China too has benefited from Pakistan's industrial and technological experience and understanding of Western weapons and equipment that it developed indigenously. This is an additional source of bonding between them.

All this illustrates that relations with other countries depend on mutuality of interests and what each can offer. Our leadership and people would be mindful of this basic tenant to place relations with countries on a sound footing.