Nawaz Sharif's victory at the polls is welcomed by countries in the region hoping for a more stable Pakistan. Much will depend on how effectively he is able to work with the Pakistani army. As prime minister in the 1990s he made genuine efforts towards peace with India but was thwarted by an aggressive and uncompromising army. General Kayani is due to step down at the end of the year and a new army chief may well be able to end the years of acrimony between Mr Sharif and the army. Pakistan's traditional allies in the West are unlikely to offer Islamabad much in the way of financial bailout to the bankrupt economy, however India could play a major role in reviving the economy as a potential investor. The withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan through the Pakistani city of Karachi next year could end Afghan hostilities if Pakistan plays its role in forcing the Taliban to the peace table.
Pray: that Mr Sharif will be able to work with the army and end Pakistan's tolerance of extremism. (Ps.46:9)