Islamabad:After surprise landslide victory in general elections last month,”Nawaz Sharif”is to be sworn in as Pakistans prime minister today.

Mr Sharifs majority in parliament is big enough for him to govern without a coalition.His appointment will be endorsed by newly-elected members of parliament.

Mr Sharif faces numerous pressing challenges, including reviving a weak economy and bringing an end to militant attacks and US drone strikes.

It is not going to be a bed of roses for him ,priorities will be rejuvenating the economy and improving security – both areas that require some speedy but difficult decision-making in a geo-strategic environment which is shaped and controlled by the military.

While the new prime minister favours talks with the Pakistani Taliban, many expect that once he gets into power, he will accept the view of the army that all past negotiations have failed and the only option is to fight the jihadis who attack domestic targets.

He comes to power at a critical time in the battle against the Taliban – as Nato forces begin the process of withdrawing from Afghanistan.

Infrastructure projects are another important priority – he wants to stop power cuts and construct a bullet train between Karachi and Peshawar.