Between Dreams and Realities

In the second edition of this book, the author has added new material to an already illuminating record of the milestones and turning points in Pakistan's political history. This book attempts to demonstrate that only a genuine democratic dispensation can ensure its survival as a viable federation. Sartaj Aziz argues that the vitality of a nation comes primarily from the value system, cultural heritage, and social energy of its people. As Finance Minister under Nawaz Sharif, he was the main architect of many of the far-reaching reforms introduced in the early 1990s and describes the changing processes of public policy in Pakistan. As Foreign Minister during the Kargil crisis of 1999, he presents an authentic and insightful account of that unfortunate phase in Pakistan's history. Sartaj Aziz has also covered Pakistan's emergence from military rule during the two PPP governments of the Zardari Presidency. He describes Nawaz Sharif's third term as an elected prime minister, his later disqualification, and the subsequent in-house change. In the last Chapter, 'Imran Khan as Prime Minister', the author examines the performance of Imran Khan since the 2018 elections.