Pakistan today is a functioning democracy, with an elected government, an independent judiciary and a vibrant media. A country of the size and strength of Pakistan, with its many assets, should be viewed as a strong and stable power. In any case, it should not have to face the kind of questions being regularly raised by foreign leaders, as well as by the media.

What then are the challenges confronting Pakistan in the coming weeks and months? I would place them in three categories: domestic, regional and international.

On the domestic front, the government of Pakistan has to demonstrate far greater resolve and commitment in confronting the extremists. Being a democratically elected government, it can and should reach out to the other political parties to create a national consensus in favor of confronting the militants.

The second challenge is to ensure investment in the people.

The third challenge is recognition by the political elite that they have to ensure far better governance than has been provided so far. The Taliban claim that it wants to create an egalitarian society, where social needs would be met and inexpensive and speedy justice ensured, has proven a powerful attraction to the poor and disenfranchised. This can only be countered by a justice system that is inexpensive, speedy, fair and transparent.

Another major problem is the growing centripetal tendencies in the country. This has deepened because of the policies of me authoritarian regime, weakening the commitment of people in the smaller provinces, especially in Baluchistan, to the concept of Pakistan. It is also a fact that foreign powers have been involved for years in stirring up trouble in this strategically important province. While these foreign influences have to be countered, the most effective strategy would be [to] grant the provinces maximum provincial autonomy, as was promised to them in the 1973 Constitution.

On the regional front, the most important challenge for Pakistan is to stabilize its relations with India. The United States has to use its influence on India, to impress on her the long-term advantages of resolving its many differences with Pakistan and this has to include the issue of Kashmir.

The next challenge for Pakistan is to learn to treat Afghanistan as an independent, sovereign country, rather than as an opportunity to extend its influence into Central Asia.

As regards relations with the United States, Pakistan should make it clear that it prefers greater economic assistance from the United States as compared to funds for military purchases. Attaching onerous conditions to the assistance package is neither practical nor productive.

Pakistan has to convince the United States that providing it with the technology and weaponry needed to confront the extremists would be more economic and effective. Drone attacks are deeply humiliating and therefore reinforce anti-American sentiments. In fact, the United States should also be persuaded to agree to their joint operations.

What are the prospects of Pakistan being able to confront the many serious dangers it faces?

One, we have an elected democratic dispensation as well as a vibrant and responsible opposition, both of which are cognizant of the dangers confronting the country. Two, the manner in which the opposition parties, in particular the PML(N), have cooperated with the government on important national issues, while refraining from any effort to embarrass it, is proof of their growing maturity and wisdom.

Three, Musharraf's effort to destroy the judiciary not only failed but instead triggered a national movement against the authoritarian regime. This was a remarkable development, for it not only restored an independent judiciary but gave birth to a courageous and vocal civil society that refused to be browbeaten into silence. Four, Pakistan is one of the few Third World countries that have a large, independent and fearless media that has become the guardian of the people's rights. Five, Pakistan has one of the best trained, professional and dedicated armed forces, which constitutes an extremely important factor ensuring peace and stability in the country. Six, the Taliban's crude and cruel tactics have exposed their true credentials and alienated large sections of the urban population. Seven, there is growing unanimity in the country that both Pakistan and India should make every effort to settle their differences. And finally, it is important to note that while the overwhelming majority of Pakistanis are Muslims, they are moderate in their beliefs and modern in their outlook.