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It did come as a surprise to find out that Mc Donalds was bidding adieu to Iceland. The element of surprise was that the fast food chain was leaving a country that was ranked as the most developed country in the world by United Nations Human Development Index. Come the global economic meltdown, and the country could no longer afford to serve Big Macs to its citizens living in its capital Reykjavik. Importing ingredients from Germany was no longer possible for an economy with a failed banking system.

And I am sure that Iceland is at a better relation with the USA than Pakistan is with the super power. However US secretary of State coming to Pakistan and expressing her views on Pakistan knowing but not telling where Al Qaeda’s leaders are hiding in its territory , irks many. The Kerry Lugar assistance package also remains a matter of concern for majority of the people in the country and they continue to criticize those who present a realistic view that we do need US assistance in order to survive. Sections of the press in the country feel triumphant that a seasoned diplomat like Ms. Clinton was given a tough time by the journalists but I wonder if they also give a thought to the fact that many students in Lahore who got a life time opportunity to be in a session with Ms. Clinton were left spell bound when they were put a retaliatory question by the lady if they knew how much assistance had the US pledged for the IDPs of Malakand. No one wants to take a look within.

Icelanders will not miss the US fast food. They will continue to get fast food because the ex franchise owner of Mc Donalds in their country has decided to give them fast food that will have the locally produced Haddock in patty and local yoghurt as dressing to make it sumptuous.
And while you might remain confused and insecure about how US is going to treat Pakistan next, savour each and every bite of the Chicken or beef Big Mac at your nearest outlet.