ISLAMABAD -- In reaching out to Japan last week in his maiden visit there, Pakistani President Gen. Pervez Musharraf created the impression that he is genuinely trying to turn his country around. And during his recent visit to the United States, U.S. President George W. Bush hailed him as a visionary leader for his decision to throw his country's support behind Washington in its war against terrorism.
Such kudos will certainly encourage Musharraf to proclaim as successes the choices he has made for Pakistan.
It is expected that Musharraf, who seized power in a 1999 military coup, will seek global support in his efforts to tackle the effects of a weak economy at home. He also likely hopes to receive endorsements for his plans to return Pakistan to civilian rule through national elections, which he has promised will be held in a few months.