Islamabad’s efforts to combat terrorism are vital for both domestic security and regional stability.

Pakistan is currently facing a number of significant challenges that have major implications for U.S. policy in the region and pose near-existential threats to the country itself.

While drone strikes were seen in Islamabad as a violation of the country’s sovereignty, they were also arguably an effective counterterrorism mechanism.

With the March 2013 elections approaching, the Pakistani government has an opportunity to ensure a smooth transfer of power to the next elected government for the first time in the country’s history.

Dr. Samina Ahmed of the International Crisis Group on forging productice peace agreements with militants and asserting civillian control over the military.

Although important steps have been made since the November 2004 cease fire in Kashmir, a long term solution to the crisis is not likely to come quickly. Recent efforts at reconciliation like re-establishing communication and shipping routes have been symbolic than substantive.