I have recently travelled to a few Far Eastern countries, including Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and Philippines and I got the opportunity to talk to lots of local people and government officials.
I felt embarrassed when I realised that Pakistan has not very good impression in these countries despite hectic efforts of Pervez Musharraf for soft image. General people equate Pakistan with terrorism and consider Pakistan as the breeding ground for terrorists.
Though they appreciate General Musharraf's efforts in this regard but they are cautious of alleged Pakistanis' links with international and domestic terrorism including suicide bombings by Taliban in the worship places of minorities. I know that all Pakistanis are not terrorists but due to a few people we are defamed all over the world.
These few people are hijacking the image of Pakistan abroad. I realise how people in foreign countries perceive us becomes a reality for them. I think we have to work very hard to create a softer and better image of Pakistan abroad.