Army Chief Gen Kayani's statement at the end of two day strategic dialogue between Pakistan and America that the military was willing to forgo its requests for hardware to ensure that Pakistan's energy and economic needs were met shows his realisation of the tight spot the country is trapped in. This affirmation has come at a time when the country is facing the worst energy crisis bringing the steering economic wheel to a halt. More than half of the country is facing electricity shortage of twenty hours a day adding to the miseries of the common man. Gen Kayani's statement is indicative of the nation's need to pursue economic and industrial development plans. Forgoing the army hardware seems to be the right move in the present circumstances to address the acute energy and water shortage of the country with the aim of securing a more promising energy position and outlook. This pronouncement doesn't however, provide all the energy security answers, it may well be called the starting point. It can surely be a resolve to help us focus on policies and programs to enhance our energy posture. Reliable access to affordable, stable energy supplies poses a significant challenge for the army and the nation. Such a gesture of concern from the top military officials ensures the enhancement of operational capabilities of the nation at large. Gen Kayani's proclamation communicates effectively the army- wide energy vision, mission and goals to facilitate energy surety, supply, and sufficiency together with sustainability to the nation. LUBNA UMAR, Islamabad, March 27.