One thing is clear and mostly accepted in all circles, PM Imran Khan acted as a statesman and seasoned politician during current crisis. This is a welcome news. Where to go from here?

Current incident in Indian Occupied Kashmir, which killed 40 plus Indian soldiers, is most likely the result of homegrown resistance against Indian Army’s persecution in Kashmir. Pakistan may not have played any role, but unfortunately world has lost trust in Pakistan in believing its claims in such matters. After Osama Bin Laden was found and killed in Islamabad, Bombay Hotel attack and reluctance to rein in extremists who roam free in Pakistan, it is hard for the world to trust on Pakistan’s assurances.

After recent incidence where India lost its two jets after crossing LOC and Imran Khan’s seasoned performance, the Pakistan has gained some credibility and breathing room to build trust with world. Pakistan has started to seize assets of banned extremist groups (why these groups were allowed to function anyway?), but I hope it is not a ruse as has been the case in the past. About two years ago, Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif warned the Military leadership that Pakistan will be isolated in the world unless it reins in militants. That was the start of breach between Sharif family and Military. I hope and pray that Imran Khan is successful in reining in militants, and Military cop-operates, for Pakistan’s own survival and to gain the trust of the world.

For the last 71 years, Pakistan’s focus has been on Kashmir and Military, it is time to shift the focus on economy and welfare of the masses. If Pakistan is economically strong, other issues have a better chance of getting resolved.