We Pakistanis (well the vast majority of us anyway and pak-one I am sure you are no different) seem to be impressed at once by someone who is fluent in English, has a foreign degree etc. Even now that is used as a yardstick by most 'educated' familes when gauging rishtas. Pakistanis more than any other desis seem to have this complex big time. Until and unless we get rid of this inferiority complex we cannot progress as a nation.
I am not a big fan of the word 'nationalism'. Nationalism breeds intolerance, hate and narrow-mindedness. Patriotism is a better word. I see myself as a Pakistani who takes pride in our history and culture but at the same time is not intolerant of other peoples' points of view.
Asif, I think you're absolutely right. We do have many complexes but the question always remains: If our eastern neighbor can overcome (or set aside) such complexes, why can't we?
Sure you can replace the word nationalism with patriotism because my intention is not to be narrow minded or filled with hate. Even my references to India are not to bash the country but to give an example what can be done.
Sure ALL countries problems including India, Israel but they have been able to sideline their issues and marketed themselves very well. Many of Pakistan's problems stem from the economic front for example, we all hear about madrasas and their influence on society. Well, why are parents sending their kids to madrasas? In many instances it is because the government support schools are non existant or non functioning, besides many madrasas provide room and board, and teach Islam...A poor parent will not say no. I know this becuase I asked more than a few parents in my hometown in Pakistan.
In order for Pakistan to move out of the mess, is to bring itself up to the international standards. Looing at India, we saw the "Shining India" campaign and being in Davos at the time, all I saw was Indian posters from the business council. The marketing saturation was legendary.
I feel strongly about this because I do get the chance to travel and attend conferences where Pakistan is not even mentioned as a possibility. Right now, I am leading a project which I hope will impact Pakistan's corporte finance infustructure, so this isn't just all talk..I want to make it happen.