Majyd Aziz
(Former President Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
2025 commences from today. Taking into account whatever happened in the last few years, more so in the context of Pakistan, there is a full plate of hope, dismay, and trepidation. Since Pakistan is not an isolated island and since Pakistan is well-placed as a geo-strategic and geo-economic nation, the domestic and international happenings will impact upon this nation. How will this country of 250 million fare in the next 365 days will definitely depend on myriad factors, whether political, economic, diplomatic, and security.
Before moving further, it is important to note that there is a dearth of trust within the populace. This distrust is compounded by hypocritical statements germinating out of the corridors of power. Creating trust is fundamental to how this country moves ahead in 2025 and beyond. To begin with, everyone should now dedicate themselves to the visionary motto of Founder of Nation Muhammad Ali Jinnah who urged Pakistanis to adhere to Unity, Faith and Discipline. These three words are often in the sermons of leaders, whether civilian or non-civilian, who then ignore it with impunity. Do the leaders really believe and understand what the Founder really meant? do they really preach and practice the words of wisdom of Jinnah? Or do they give just lip service to what the great leader advised? Badalnahaitohrindonh se kahoapna chalan badlay / Faqatsaaqibadljanay se maikhananabadlay ga.
The past some years have witnessed Pakistan in the quagmire of irrational political instability, faltering economy, setbacks at the global forums, and threatening national security issues orchestrated by inimical forces, both internal and external. This complex combination has frustrated the populace and has created a depressing mood all over the country. Where was the status of Pakistan and where is Pakistan today. From a proud nation to a begging nation? The fact is that, today, the nation is enveloped in the throes of loans and grants, and wasteful expenditures. Qarz ki peetaythaymei, lekinsamajhtaythaykehaan / Rung laavegihamaarifaaqamasti ek din.
Notwithstanding the fragile environment, the fact is that Pakistan is a resilient nation and the citizens, despite despair and resignation, are not giving up. The proverbial silver lining in the dark cloud can and will be the guiding force beginning soon. There are news that the political dispensation is moving towards a semblance of conviviality and expressing their sincerity in ushering in political stability because the economy has become hostage to the continuation of political hostility. Alongside, this would also impel the economic wizards to restructure the economic ecosystem, that, it goes without saying, could be the beacon of confidence. Political stability and a functional Parliament can definitely address economic issues, more formidably and with enthusiasm. Mera azmitnabulandhai, paraha’aisholonh ka dur nahin / Mujhekhofaatish-e-gul se haikekahinchaman ko jalanadain.
The elephant in the room is the menacing national security state of affairs. Terrorism, extremism, and crimes have not been strongly contained despite all meaningful endeavors. This has also affected the nation’s global image and has given impetus to foreign elements to degrade and revile this motherland. It has seriously dampened the position Pakistan takes in the diplomatic arena. Economic diplomacy has taken a backseat against national security imperatives. Pragmatically handling the security concerns whether by power or by negotiations would create a favorable global understanding and support for Pakistan, and the positive vibes would bode well in many respects. Hum ne tohbanayehainsamandarmeinrastay / Yuon hum ko mitana koi asaannahinhai.
Optimism, positivity, and trust are essential ingredients for 2025 to be an excellent year, a year that would be the harbinger of prosperity and peace, a year that would change the global negative image, and the year where citizens would be proud of their motherland. Naturally, it is also the responsibility of each and every citizen to be efficient, productive, and strongly believe in Jinnah’s three golden words. Then hope will just be around the corner and the richness of Pakistan would be the most precious asset of 250 million denizens. Azumraasiq ho tohdetihaisadaa khud manzil / Hosla ho toh koi ra’ahbhidushwarnahin.
