Between Islam and Democracy: A Comparative Analysis of Pakistan's Constitutions of 1956, 1962 and 1973

Islamic Provisions in the Constitutions

Islam has played an important role in Pakistan's constitutional development since the country's creation in 1947. Each constitution adopted a different approach to defining the relationship between Islam and the state. The Constitution of 1956 was Pakistan's first constitution and officially declared the country an Islamic Republic. It included the Objectives Resolution as its guiding principle and stated that no law should be made against the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. It also established an Islamic Research Institute to help bring laws closer to Islamic teachings. However, there was no strong mechanism to ensure that these principles were fully implemented in practice.

The Constitution of 1962, introduced during the rule of Ayub Khan, initially renamed the country as the Republic of Pakistan. After criticism from religious groups and the public, the word "Islamic" was restored. The constitution established the Advisory Council of Islamic Ideology, which was responsible for advising the government on Islamic matters. However, its recommendations were not binding, and its influence on legislation remained limited.

The Constitution of 1973 strengthened the Islamic character of the state more clearly than the earlier constitutions. It declared Islam as the state religion and required that laws be brought into conformity with the Quran and Sunnah. The Council of Islamic Ideology was retained, and Islamic education was encouraged. The offices of President and Prime Minister were reserved for Muslims. These provisions reflected a stronger effort to integrate Islamic values into the constitutional system while maintaining the overall structure of the state.

Democratic Provisions in the Constitutions 

Democracy has been a major goal of Pakistan's constitutional system, although its practical implementation has changed over time. The Constitution of 1956 established a parliamentary form of government based on democratic principles. It provided for direct elections through universal adult franchise and created a system in which the Prime Minister held executive authority while the President served as the ceremonial head of state. The constitution also guaranteed fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, religion, and association. An independent judiciary was established to protect these rights and uphold the rule of law.

The Constitution of 1962 introduced a presidential system that significantly changed the democratic structure of the country. Ayub Khan believed that a strong executive was necessary for political stability. Under this constitution, the President held extensive powers and was elected indirectly through the Basic Democracies system. Citizens could not directly elect the President, which reduced public participation in national politics. Political parties also faced restrictions during the early years of the system. Although some democratic institutions remained, many critics believed that democratic representation had been weakened.

The Constitution of 1973 restored parliamentary democracy and strengthened representative government. It reintroduced direct elections based on universal adult franchise and created a bicameral legislature consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate. Fundamental rights were guaranteed in greater detail, and the judiciary was given constitutional protection. Political parties were allowed to function freely and participate in the democratic process. As a result, the 1973 Constitution provided a more representative and participatory democratic framework than its predecessors.

Comparative Analysis 

A comparison of the three constitutions shows how Pakistan's constitutional system evolved in its attempt to accommodate both Islamic principles and democratic values. The Constitution of 1956 tried to combine the country's Islamic identity with a parliamentary democratic system. It declared Pakistan an Islamic Republic and introduced democratic institutions, but both the Islamic and democratic provisions remained relatively weak because the constitution did not remain in force for long.

The Constitution of 1962 took a different direction. It emphasized political stability and administrative efficiency through a strong presidential system. Although Islamic provisions were retained, they had a limited practical role in legislation. Similarly, democratic participation was reduced through indirect elections and greater executive authority. Many people believed that the constitution concentrated too much power in the hands of the President.

The Constitution of 1973 attempted to address the shortcomings of both earlier constitutions. It restored parliamentary democracy, strengthened fundamental rights, and encouraged wider public participation through direct elections. At the same time, it expanded the role of Islam by declaring it the state religion and requiring that laws conform to Islamic teachings. In this way, the constitution sought to satisfy both religious and democratic demands.

Another important difference was the process through which the constitution was adopted. The constitutions of 1956 and 1962 were often criticized for lacking broad political support. In contrast, the 1973 Constitution was approved through discussions and agreement among different political parties and groups. This wider acceptance helped make it more durable and gave it greater legitimacy in the eyes of the public.

Conclusion 

The 1973 Constitution is often described as a consensus document because it was developed through cooperation among political parties with different views and priorities. Its main achievement was its effort to combine Islamic principles with democratic institutions within a single constitutional framework. This balance was important because Pakistan was founded as a state where both religion and democracy were expected to play significant roles in public life.

Compared with the Constitution of 1956, the 1973 Constitution provided stronger constitutional support for Islamic provisions while also improving democratic institutions. Compared with the Constitution of 1962, it reduced executive dominance and restored direct public participation through parliamentary democracy. These changes helped create a more representative political system and increased public confidence in the constitutional order.

At the same time, balancing Islam and democracy has not always been easy. Questions regarding the interpretation of Islamic principles, minority rights, and democratic freedoms have continued to generate debate. Different governments and political groups have often disagreed on how this balance should be maintained. Nevertheless, the constitution provides a framework through which these issues can be discussed and addressed within the legal system.

The continued existence of the 1973 Constitution demonstrates its importance and relevance. Despite periods of political instability, constitutional amendments, and military interventions, it has remained the foundation of Pakistan's legal and political system. Its survival for more than five decades shows that it enjoys a level of acceptance that earlier constitutions could not achieve. Therefore, it remains the most successful constitutional effort to balance Islam and democracy in Pakistan.

Published by:
Muhammad Kaif(25-EE-14)

Understanding Islam: A Simple Look at the Faith, Its History, and Muslim Life

Islam is one of the largest religions in the world, followed by billions of people across different countries, cultures, and languages. Yet despite its global presence, many people still know very little about what Muslims actually believe and how Islam shapes everyday life.

For Muslims, Islam is not simply a religion practiced once a week. It influences daily routines, family relationships, honesty, prayer, charity, and personal behavior. It becomes part of how a person lives, thinks, and treats others.

If you have ever been curious about Islam and wanted a clear and easy introduction without complicated language, this guide is a good place to begin.

What Does Islam Mean?

The word Islam comes from an Arabic root connected to peace and submission. In the religious sense, Islam means finding peace through willingly submitting to God.

A person who follows Islam is called a Muslim.

Muslims believe in one God, known in Arabic as Allah. The word “Allah” simply means “God” in Arabic, and Arab Christians also use the same term in their language.

One of the central teachings of Islam is that God is completely unique. Muslims believe He has no partners, no children, and no equal. God is seen as the Creator of everything and the source of all guidance and mercy.

This belief creates a direct relationship between a person and God. In Islam, there is no need for a middleman when praying or seeking forgiveness. Muslims pray directly to God and believe He hears every sincere prayer.

How Islam Began

Islam began in the seventh century in the city of Makkah. Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel at the age of forty.

These revelations continued over the next twenty-three years and later became the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam.

At first, only a small group of people accepted the message of Islam. The early Muslims faced strong opposition because Islam challenged social injustice, tribal divisions, and idol worship. Many Muslims were mistreated and forced to leave their homes.

Eventually, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his followers migrated to the city of Medina in an event known as the Hijrah. This migration became a major turning point in Islamic history and marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

The Main Beliefs of Islam

The core beliefs of Islam are simple and clear. Muslims believe in one God and believe that He sent guidance to humanity through prophets and revealed books.

Muslims believe in prophets such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, peace be upon them all. Islam teaches that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was the final messenger sent to humanity.

Muslims also believe in angels, the Day of Judgment, and life after death. According to Islam, every person is responsible for their actions and will ultimately answer to God.

Themes like mercy, justice, patience, forgiveness, and compassion appear repeatedly throughout Islamic teachings and are considered essential parts of a Muslim’s character.

Why the Qur’an Is Important

For Muslims, the Qur’an is much more than a historical text. They believe it is the direct word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

The Qur’an is recited daily in prayers and memorized by millions of Muslims around the world. In many Muslim families, children grow up listening to Qur’an recitation from a young age.

Even Muslims who do not speak Arabic fluently often feel a deep emotional connection to its recitation. For many people, listening to the Qur’an brings peace, comfort, and reflection.

The Five Pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars are the main acts of worship in Islam and form the foundation of a Muslim’s religious life.

The Declaration of Faith

The declaration of faith states that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad ﷺ is His messenger. This statement is the foundation of Islamic belief.

Daily Prayer

Muslims pray five times each day at different times from morning until night. Prayer allows Muslims to pause during their daily routines and reconnect spiritually with God.

In many Muslim countries, the call to prayer becomes part of the rhythm of everyday life.

Charity

Islam strongly encourages helping those in need. Muslims who are financially able give a portion of their savings each year to support poor and vulnerable people.

This act of charity helps strengthen social responsibility and compassion within society.

Fasting During Ramadan

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. They avoid food and drink during fasting hours and focus more on prayer, patience, self-control, and gratitude.

Ramadan is often considered one of the most spiritual times of the year for Muslims.

Pilgrimage to Makkah

Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to perform Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah, at least once in their lifetime.

Every year, millions of Muslims gather there from all over the world regardless of race, nationality, or social status.

Everyday Muslim Life

Islam is not limited to religious rituals alone. It also emphasizes character, honesty, family values, and community responsibility.

Muslims are encouraged to respect parents, care for neighbors, speak truthfully, and avoid harmful behavior. Daily life often includes prayer, charity, family gatherings, and community involvement.

Food is another important aspect of Muslim life. Muslims follow halal dietary rules, avoid pork and alcohol, and prepare meat according to Islamic guidelines.

Modesty is also an important value in Islam. This includes not only clothing but also behavior, speech, and personal conduct.

Final Thoughts

Islam is practiced by people from many different cultures and backgrounds around the world. While traditions may vary from one country to another, the central message of Islam remains the same: worship one God, live honestly, treat others with kindness, and remain mindful of your actions.

For Muslims, faith is not separated from daily life. It becomes part of ordinary moments, personal struggles, family relationships, and the way a person interacts with the world around them.

Hantavirus: The Dangerous Virus Hidden in Rodent-Infested Areas

Most people never think twice about mice or rats unless they damage food or create a mess inside the house. But in some situations, these small animals can carry dangerous diseases that quietly threaten human health. One of these infections is hantavirus a rare but potentially serious virus linked to rodents.

Although hantavirus cases are uncommon, health experts take the disease seriously because symptoms can become severe within a short time. In some patients, the infection attacks the lungs, while in others it affects the kidneys and blood circulation.

What Is Hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a group of viruses mainly carried by wild rodents such as mice and rats. The animals themselves often appear healthy, but the virus can exist in their urine, saliva, and droppings.

People usually become infected after breathing air contaminated with dried rodent waste. This often happens while cleaning dusty storage rooms, barns, sheds, abandoned buildings, or poorly ventilated spaces where rodents have lived.

Unlike flu or some other viral illnesses, hantavirus generally does not spread easily from person to person. The biggest danger comes from exposure to rodent-contaminated environments.

Common Symptoms of Hantavirus

In the beginning, hantavirus symptoms may look similar to flu or a seasonal viral infection. Early signs often include:

• Fever
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Weakness and fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Back and leg pain
• Dizziness

After a few days, more dangerous symptoms may appear, including:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Persistent coughing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing

In severe cases, the lungs can fill with fluid, making it difficult for the body to receive enough oxygen.

Some forms of hantavirus may also damage the kidneys, causing swelling, reduced urine output, or dark-colored urine.

Why Hantavirus Can Be Dangerous

One major problem is that many people do not recognize the illness early. Since the infection is rare, patients may ignore the symptoms or mistake them for flu.

However, hantavirus can become life-threatening very quickly. Severe cases may require oxygen support, intensive care, or ventilators.

Early medical attention greatly improves the chances of recovery.

Is There Any Treatment for Hantavirus?

Currently, there is no specific medicine that completely cures hantavirus infection.

Doctors mainly provide supportive treatment, including:

• Oxygen therapy
• Blood pressure support
• IV fluids
• Intensive-care monitoring
• Ventilator support in critical cases

Because there is no guaranteed cure, prevention remains the best protection.

How to Prevent Hantavirus

Reducing exposure to rodents is the most effective way to stay safe.

1. Seal Entry Points

Close holes and cracks in walls, windows, and doors where mice can enter.

2. Store Food Safely

Keep food, grains, and garbage in tightly sealed containers.

3. Clean Rodent Areas Carefully

Never sweep dry rodent droppings directly because contaminated dust can spread into the air.

Instead:

• Spray the area with disinfectant first
• Wear gloves and a mask
• Use damp cloths for cleaning

4. Improve Ventilation

Open doors and windows before entering dusty or closed spaces.

5. Keep Surroundings Clean

Remove clutter, wood piles, and unnecessary storage materials where rodents may hide.

Hantavirus in Pakistan and South Asia

In Pakistan and many South Asian countries, diseases like dengue and malaria receive far more attention. However, rodent-related infections still remain a concern, especially in rural areas, farms, overcrowded housing, and poorly maintained buildings.

Seasonal flooding and sanitation issues can increase contact between humans and rodents, raising the risk of exposure to dangerous viruses.

Public awareness and proper hygiene practices can play an important role in reducing infections.

Final Thoughts

Hantavirus may be rare, but it should not be ignored. A simple activity like cleaning an old storeroom or entering a dusty shed without precautions can sometimes expose people to dangerous viruses carried by rodents.

Good hygiene, safe cleaning habits, and proper rodent control are often enough to reduce the risk.

If someone develops fever or breathing problems after exposure to rodent-infested areas, they should seek medical attention immediately and mention possible rodent contact to the doctor.

AI in 2026: A Turning Point Between Innovation and Risk

 

Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept it has become part of everyday life. In 2026, AI is shaping economies, influencing decision-making, and redefining how industries operate. From healthcare breakthroughs to automated logistics, its impact is undeniable. But with this rapid growth comes an equally important question: are we moving forward responsibly?

A New Era of Intelligent Systems

Over the past year, AI technology has advanced at an extraordinary pace. Modern systems are no longer limited to text they now combine video, speech, and real-time analysis. This shift has made AI more practical, but also more powerful than ever before.

At the same time, developments in advanced computing are accelerating research in critical areas like medicine and climate science. Tasks that once required years of study are now being completed in months. While this progress is promising, it raises concerns about control, regulation, and long-term consequences.

How AI Is Changing Everyday Life

The Challenge of Jobs and Ethics
• Transport & Logistics: Automation is making delivery systems faster and more efficient, especially in urban environments.
• Creative Work: Writers, designers, and filmmakers are using AI as a support tool though questions around originality and ownership continue to grow.
  

  The influence of AI is now visible across multiple sectors:

  Healthcare: Early disease detection has improved significantly, giving doctors better tools to diagnose conditions at earlier stages.

These changes highlight a deeper issue: as machines become more capable, the role of humans is also evolving.

One of the biggest concerns is the future of employment. Automation is no longer limited to manual labor it is now entering professional fields such as finance, media, and administration.

At the same time, ethical questions remain unanswered:

• Who is responsible when AI makes a mistake?
• How should data privacy be protected?
• Can regulations keep up with innovation?

These are not theoretical concerns they are real challenges that governments and industries must address.

Pakistan’s Position in the AI Race

Pakistan is gradually stepping into the AI landscape. Startups are using technology to improve agriculture, helping farmers make better decisions based on data. In finance, AI-driven systems are reducing fraud and improving digital transactions.

However, progress is not equal everywhere. In regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, limited internet access and infrastructure remain major barriers.

The government has announced plans to train a large number of AI professionals in the coming years. The success of these efforts will depend on how effectively education, infrastructure, and industry work together.

A Divided Global Strategy

Globally, countries are taking different approaches to AI. Some prioritize rapid innovation, while others focus on strict regulation and data protection. This divide could shape the future of technology and determine which regions lead the next phase of development.

Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence in 2026 stands at a critical crossroads. It offers solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems, yet it also introduces new risks that cannot be ignored.

The future of AI will not be decided by technology alone but by the choices humans make in guiding it.

Pakistan's Financial Challenges in 2026: Interest Rate Shock and IMF's Tough New Demands

 

By Nai Udaan News | April 28, 2026

If you have been following the news lately, you already know things are not looking great for Pakistan's economy. Just when people thought the worst was behind us  inflation was cooling, the rupee had stabilized, and the stock market was finally gaining some confidence  two major developments in the last few weeks have shaken everything up again.

The State Bank of Pakistan hiked interest rates for the first time in nearly three years. And the IMF slapped 11 new conditions on the country before it releases the next chunk of loan money. Both of these things are connected, and both of them are going to hit ordinary Pakistanis hard. Let me break it down for you.

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The Interest Rate Hike Nobody Wanted

On April 27, the State Bank of Pakistan raised its benchmark policy rate by 100 basis points  from 10.5 percent to 11.5 percent. Now, if you are not into financial jargon, here is what that means in plain language: borrowing money just got more expensive. Whether it is a car loan, a home loan, or a business loan, you will be paying more in interest starting now.

This is a big deal because the SBP had been doing the opposite for almost two years. Since June 2024, they had been cutting rates aggressively  by a total of 1,150 basis points  bringing the rate down from a painful 22 percent to 10.5 percent. Businesses were finally breathing. People were starting to borrow again. The real estate market was picking up. And then, just like that, the brakes got pulled.

So Why Did They Do It?

One word: oil.

The ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran has sent global oil prices through the roof. Pakistan imports the vast majority of its energy roughly 90 percent from the Middle East region alone. When oil gets expensive, everything gets expensive here. Fuel prices go up. Transport costs rise. Food prices follow. Electricity bills climb.

Consumer inflation had already risen to 7.3 percent in March, crossing the SBP's comfort zone of 5 to 7 percent. Core inflation  the kind that strips out food and energy to see what is really happening underneath  was even higher at 7.8 percent. The central bank warned that inflation could hit double digits in the coming months if things do not calm down.

The Monetary Policy Committee did not mince words. They said the decision was driven by "intensified risks" to the economy. Freight charges are going up. Insurance premiums on shipping routes near conflict zones are rising. Supply chains are getting disrupted again, just like they did during COVID. And Pakistan, sitting right next to Iran and heavily dependent on imported energy, is getting squeezed from every direction.

What Does This Mean for You and Me?

If you are a salaried person or running a small business, this rate hike is bad news. Loans will cost more. EMIs will go up. Businesses that were planning to expand might put those plans on hold. The stock market already reacted  the KSE-100 dropped over 1,174 points on the day of the announcement, closing at around 169,497.

The SBP tried to soften the blow by pointing out some positives. GDP grew 3.8 percent in the first half of fiscal year 2026, up from 1.9 percent a year ago. Foreign reserves stood at about $15.8 billion. And there was a small current account surplus between July and March. But honestly, these numbers feel like cold comfort when petrol prices keep climbing and your grocery bill gets heavier every month.

The real worry is what comes next. The SBP itself admitted that inflation will "remain above the target range" through much of fiscal year 2027. That means this is not a one-month problem. We could be dealing with high prices and expensive credit for the next year or more.

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IMF's 11 New Conditions: Another Round of Tough Love

As if the interest rate hike was not enough, Pakistan now has to deal with a fresh set of demands from the International Monetary Fund.

Pakistan is currently in the middle of a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) with the IMF. The next tranche  worth $1.2 billion  is on the line. But before the Fund releases that money, it wants Pakistan to meet 11 new conditions. And some of these conditions are going to be difficult to swallow.

Let me walk you through the main ones.

1. Special Economic Zones Are Getting Phased Out

This is probably the most controversial one. The IMF wants Pakistan to amend the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act and the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) Act. The goal is to phase out the generous tax breaks and fiscal incentives that companies in these zones currently enjoy.

Here is some context. Pakistan set up these zones to attract investment  including major projects under CPEC. Companies setting up there got tax holidays, duty-free imports, and other perks. The IMF's argument is that these incentives have become a way for privileged sectors to avoid paying their fair share of taxes, while ordinary taxpayers carry the burden.

The plan is to phase out existing SEZs over the next decade and not set up any new ones. That is a huge shift. It also means some of the CPEC-related incentives could be affected, which might not sit well with China.

What made this even more controversial was a report that the government was planning to lease 6,000 acres of land in Karachi to SEZ developers for free. The Business Recorder called it "extremely disturbing." You can see why.

2. Gas and Electricity Tariff Adjustments

Nobody likes hearing this, but the IMF wants semi-annual gas tariff adjustments starting July 2026 and annual electricity tariff revisions from January 2027. In simple terms, expect your utility bills to keep going up on a regular schedule. The IMF believes Pakistan's energy prices are still subsidized below their real cost, and they want the gap closed.

3. Procurement Reforms

State-owned enterprises currently get preferential treatment in government procurement contracts. The IMF wants that to stop. The idea is to level the playing field so private companies can compete fairly. Changes to PPRA rules are expected by September 2026.

4. NAB Reforms

The National Accountability Bureau is supposed to be Pakistan's anti-corruption watchdog, but it has been criticized for years as a political tool. The IMF wants merit-based appointments at NAB  basically, stop putting political loyalists in charge and start hiring people based on qualifications.

5. Tax Audit Overhaul

The Federal Board of Revenue needs to fix how it picks people for tax audits. Right now, the system has room for favoritism and corruption. The IMF wants a centralized, transparent selection process. This is a good idea on paper, but FBR reforms have been promised and broken so many times that most people will believe it when they see it.

6. Foreign Exchange Liberalization

The State Bank is being asked to prepare a roadmap for gradually opening up the foreign exchange market. This means moving toward a more market-driven exchange rate over time. For anyone who remembers the chaos of 2023 when the rupee was in free fall, this sounds scary. But the IMF wants Pakistan to stop artificially managing the currency.

7. Increase in BISP Payments

Here is one condition that actually helps ordinary people. The Benazir Income Support Programme stipend is being raised from Rs 14,500 to Rs 19,500 per family by January 2027. With inflation eating into everyone's purchasing power, this increase  while modest  will provide some relief to the poorest households.

8. Budget Alignment

Pakistan's budget for fiscal year 2026-27 has to align with IMF requirements. That means the government cannot make populist spending promises that blow up the deficit. Every line item will be scrutinized.

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The Bigger Picture: Why This Keeps Happening

If you are feeling a sense of deja vu, you are not alone. Pakistan has been to the IMF 24 times now. Every few years, the cycle repeats: the economy hits a wall, we go to the Fund, accept tough conditions, get the money, and then slowly drift back to the same old habits until the next crisis.

The fundamental problems have not changed in decades. We do not collect enough taxes  Pakistan's tax-to-GDP ratio remains one of the lowest in the region. A huge chunk of the economy operates in the informal sector, completely off the books. Agriculture and real estate, which are massive parts of the economy, barely pay any tax. The powerful get exemptions, and the burden falls on the salaried class and businesses that cannot dodge the system.

Energy is another structural problem. We import almost all of our oil and a lot of our gas. Every time global prices spike, our entire economy wobbles. We have been talking about renewable energy and reducing import dependence for years, but progress has been painfully slow.

And then there is the debt. Pakistan's debt servicing costs eat up a massive portion of the budget every year. When interest rates go up  like they just did  the cost of servicing that debt goes up too. It is a vicious cycle.

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What Happens Now?

In the short term, expect things to get tighter. Fuel prices will likely rise further. Electricity and gas bills will go up. Borrowing will cost more. The stock market might stay volatile. Inflation could cross 10 percent if the Middle East situation escalates further.

The government will try to meet the IMF's conditions to secure the $1.2 billion tranche  it does not really have a choice. The foreign reserves look okay for now at $15.8 billion, but without the IMF money and the confidence it brings, other international lenders might also hold back.

For ordinary Pakistanis, the message is familiar but frustrating: tighten your belt, again. The hope is that if the government actually follows through on reforms this time real tax reform, real energy reform, real governance improvements maybe we can finally break the cycle. But that is a big if.

The war in the Middle East is something Pakistan cannot control. But the structural weaknesses in our economy? Those are entirely within our power to fix. The question is whether anyone has the political will to actually do it.

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