Converting weaknesses into strengths

General perception regarding Mr Zardari's credentials to lead the nation, both as president and supreme commander of the armed forces is clouded by his murky past reeking of corruption, though unproven. Since he has been elected as a result of a democratic process, the will of the people must be respected and Mr Zardari deserves a chance to prove his mettle.

After listening to Mr Zardari's extempore speech at the foreign office last Wednesday, one may be strained to rethink one's negative opinion of him as a credible leader. His punch line was "converting weaknesses to strength". Mr Zardari frankly admitted the challenges ahead and the grim situation facing Pakistan.

The notable aspect was that instead of being pessimistic, he was sanguine enough to recommend measures to exploit the hopelessness of the situation to Pakistan's advantage. I am constrained to screen details of the solutions recommended by the president owing to the classified nature of the briefing, however, suffice to say that his urging the Foreign Service officers to work with a strategic vision and professional commitment and help turn these challenges into opportunities was very refreshing and provides a ray of hope for the future.