Pakistan 's election Saturday has potential to be nation 's first peaceful transition . Robert Menendez : Despite this , brave Pakistanis voted in record numbers . Without close cooperation , our efforts will be imperiled , and Pakistani fears of international abandonment will become a self-fulfilling prophecy . Pakistan 's economy is in crisis and its role in regional conflict needs to change , he says . Menendez : Pakistan can rein in militant groups and contribute to regional stability .
Pakistan 's election Saturday has potential to be nation 's first peaceful transition . Robert Menendez : Despite this , brave Pakistanis voted in record numbers . Pakistan 's economy is in crisis and its role in regional conflict needs to change , he says . Menendez : Pakistan can rein in militant groups and contribute to regional stability .