The news that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif along with Army Chief General Raheel Sharif is set to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iran in a much needed attempt to mend rifts among the arch- rivals at a crucial time when both Muslim countries are at a tense standoff following the execution of Shekh alnamar, a cleric of Eastern province al Amawiya , is really something that can cheer you up.
Amidst the mounting tension between the two Muslim states, an ordinary Pakistani haplessly found himself grappled with many troubling questions: whom Pakistan should stand with being the ultimate conundrum. The sane opinion stirred at the same time that Pakistan should not act as a party to this conflict; instead it must utilize its entire wherewithal and acumen to bridge the gap between the two states. Now that Prime Minister is all set to start his epic journey is speaking volume of the fact that his good office has not only taken a wise decision but he has also explored an avenue for Pakistan to play a leading role in steering the Ummah out of woods.
The standoff between two brother Islamic countries is a catch 22 situation for Pakistan. Both Saudi Arabia and Iran are important for Pakistan. We have a long and unprecedented history of love and friendship with Saudi Arabia. According to pew research center survey, Pakistanis hold the most favorable perception of the kingdom. It is beyond imagination that Pakistan can give cold shoulder to its closest ally in any difficult situation. On the other hand we share long border with another major Muslim state i.e. Iran. Pakistan can not side step Iranian concerns altogether for the reasons well known. So the only way left for Pakistan was to come forward and leave no stone unturned in mending rifts between the two states.
The visit of prime Minister and the army chief is of paramount significance. General Raheel Sharif has a wonderful strategic acumen and both leaders can write a prelude to peace and unity of the Muslim Ummah. This visit can not only ensure peace and co existence between the two Muslim States but also it can pave the way for Pakistan to lead the Ummah in times to come.
Best of luck Mr Prime Minister, Best of luck General Raheel Sharif.
The Writer is Chief Editor, Pakistan group of newspapers and Chairman Roze News.
@Sardarkhanniazi