Even the casual observer of the United States' war in Afghanistan would recognize the crucial importance of our nation's relationship with Pakistan. The 69-year-old Muslim nation shares a 1,400 mile border with Afghanistan and is the site not only of the killing of Osama Bin Laden, but also more than 400 drone strikes since 2004. With a population of 199 million people, Pakistan represents extraordinary economic diversity, with modern cities of Lahore and Islamabad and undeveloped tribal regions along the Afghan border.
Shahid Hamid, former Defense Minister of Pakistan and former Governor of Punjab province, shares his view from inside this complex society.