Pakistan’s President, Musharraf would be leaving for an eight day European Tour on Jan,20th during which time he is slated to meet a galaxy of leaders across the four countries.
The tour is seen as a measure by the former Army-General to restore some semblance of confidence in these countries leaders that Pakistan is safe in his hands. His tip is woven around the world Economic Forum scheduled to take place between Jan, 23rd and 25th. Pakistan is undergoing a war of violence, uncertainty and political turmoil especially after the assassination of Ms.Benazir Bhutto.
His first stop would be at Brussels wherein he is scheduled to meet Mr. Javier Solana, E.U’s High representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy, subsequent to which he would address the European Parliaments Foreign Affairs committee. He would conclude his visit after meeting the Belgian Prime Minister, Mr. Guy Vorhofstadt and from there he would travel to France.
In France he would meet President Nicholas Sarkozy but the discussion may take place only on general topics as no specific agenda appears to have been set. In fact, this is true of all his visits with other leaders as well as in Britain with the British Prime Minister. From France he would move to Davos for attending the World s Economic Forum and apart from this in Switzerland he does not seem to be having any political meeting. He is expected to utilize this platform to address international strategic community and also various think tanks.
From Davos, he would move to U.K. to meet British Prime Minister, Mr. Gordon Brown.
In concrete terms, what Mr.Musharraf is expected to achieve from this trip? Analysts feel that would be very little and the reasons are not far to seek. Pakistan has turned itself into a battle-field for militants with practically all of the cities vulnerable to attacks by various terror groups and suicide squads. There is very little credibility attached to the Feb 18th elections with all political parties that matter expressing grave concern about free and fair elections. Pakistan’s People party continues to carryon its tirade against his regime on the ground that the real truth behind the killing of its leader would never come out if the enquiry is not handed over to United Nations.
All these issues are bound to be raised by the leaders during their meeting with the Pakistan President. The Pakistan President can at best brief them about his views on them but very little to do something different which would restore their confidence. This is because of the belief in the international community that Mr.Musharraf has become a polarizing figure in Pakistan which has reduced his ability to effectively prosecute the war on terror..