A military or government hierarchy is anathema to the dispersed population and diverse tribes of mountainous Afghanistan.

The rapid proliferation of cell phones in Afghanistan proves that anything that adds value to people's lives spreads like brushfire - and commerce is certainly a force that could add value for Afghanis.

During the Cold War, the U.S. instituted a policy of sending money to governments in poor countries to buy their political loyalty. While studies show that sending aid to foreign governments creates allegiance, it does not lead to economic progress.

Rich countries have been sending aid to poor countries for the last 60 years. And, by and large, this has failed.

The history of Europe over the last several centuries provides clear evidence of the transformative power of commerce.

Pakistan is riddled with problems that are rooted in the disproportionate power of the state. Aid has only boosted that power.