Pakistan's Former President Asif Ali Zardari exhibits remarkable maturity

IT is almost universally accepted that the previous Government of PPP completed its five year mandated term mainly because of the policy of reconciliation and mutual accommodation so wisely pursued by its leader Asif Ali Zardari throughout his tenure. He practically demonstrated large-heartedness, patience and cool-mindedness and did not go astray even in the face of adverse and at times scathing media attacks and reaped benefits of his sagacious approach.

Mr. Zardari once again exhibited remarkable maturity by accepting invitation of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for an important meeting at a crucial time. Irrespective of what the two leaders discussed and agreed upon, the very fact that the top leadership of two major political parties sat together to review the overall situation will surely have a soothing effect on the political environment. Though one cannot say that there was any bitterness between the two parties over any issue but, of course, there were indications that irritants were raising their head and exchange of hot words had begun. This was particularly so in the backdrop of differences over Protection of Pakistan Ordinance (PPO), which has been cleared by the National Assembly but is stuck up in the Senate where the Government has no majority and the PPP is not ready to endorse it in its existing form. It was encouraging that the Prime Minister was receptive to the concerns of the PPP delegation and that is why he advised his Minister Zahid Hamid to hold consultations on what could be done to make the law acceptable to PPP. Presence of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar in the meeting meant the two sides also discussed issues relating to release of funds for the Province of Sindh. Mutual consultations and discussions are always helpful and we hope frequent interaction between leadership of the two parties would keep them together in the interest of the country and the democratic dispensation. The resolve of Prime Minister Sharif and former President Zardari to stand united for consolidation of the democratic process is also a good omen. We believe that Zardari has not only done another service to democracy but also enhanced his own stature in the eyes of the people through his persistent policy of reconciliation.