"Karzai was in the US."
"And Musharraf's commitment to the war on terror along the Afghan-Pak border was once again questioned."
"Well, it is Pakistan's commitment, not only Musharraf's commitment and..."
"I agree, my friend, but the modus operandi of the operation is Musharraf's. Wasn't he the king of our commando force during the days when he wore only one hat?"
"Do you think he has been involved in the actual tactics..." "If he hasn't then why does he insist on wearing the two hats?"
"You know the answer to that as well as the rest of the country, illiterates and literates alike." "But seriously what would you have done differently in Wana?" "I am not knowledgeable in the art of warfare and especially in the art of warfare in that region. But our military should be."
"You mean like the US doesn't know how to fight insurgents in Iraq and Afghanistan but the Iraqi insurgents and the Taliban do and similarly the Pakistani army should know how to fight insurgents in Pakistan." "Precisely, I mean our army should know the terrain, the people and therefore the best way to subdue them - isn't that their job?"
"I agree, but it's very difficult - the best armies in the world have been unable to deal with the people of that region."
"I guess. But it's been going on almost since 2002."
"That is true with no sign of abating."
"But Musharraf didn't get as much flak this time around when Bush and Karzai met?"
"Is there a reason for that?"
"Karzai said that his government could work with Iran."
"Ah yes, but does he realise he would have no government without US support."
"He tends to forget sometimes."
"But was quickly reminded by Bush I am sure."
"Yes indeed - a gentle reprimand followed, gentle because he can't be seen to alienate his only ally in Afghanistan."