Oxford hosted a discussion on Javed Jabbar’s book

F.P. Report

KARACHI: Oxford University Press (OUP) organized a discussion on the revised third edition of the book Pakistan—Unique Origins; Unique Destiny? written by Javed Jabbar. The book takes its readers on a journey of rediscovery of Pakistan by lucidly pinpointing the uniqueness of its origins and history, its strengths and weaknesses, and the achievements of its nationals. The country is often misunderstood and misrepresented as a deeply troubled ‘failed state’, headed into a disastrous future. Yet the real Pakistan, as portrayed in this candid, no-holds-barred book, is a pluralist, vibrant society–a nation pulsating with creativity and energy. This remarkable book introduces a much needed, evidence-based balance into appraisal and analysis of Pakistan. The new edition retains sharp focus on the country’s present and possible trajectories in the decades to come.

Javed Jabbar is a public intellectual with diverse interests in writing, film-making, media, international and national affairs, environment, and voluntary work. He has served as Senator for six years as well as Minister in three Federal Cabinets with portfolios of Information and Broadcasting, Science and Technology, Petroleum and National Resources, and National Affairs.

The event held at the Oxford bookshop in Dolmen Mall Clifton featured a discussion between Javed Jabbar and the academic and author, Nadya Qamar Chishty Mujahid. The conversation highlighted how the book will help identify how Pakistan can become a stable, secure, and successful country which contributes to global peace, culture, and harmony in the 21st century.

Earlier in her welcome address, Ameena Saiyid, Managing Director, OUP Pakistan, introduced the author and the moderator and said, “This is an unusual book in that it describes the positive side of the Pakistani reality at a time when Pakistan-bashing seems to have become a favourite pastim.”