The aim of the article is to reveal ways of formation of Pakistani nation which is a unique not yet fully established Muslim state community existing on the territory between predominantly Hindu South Asia and Islamic Middle East. The intention is to demonstrate weak, ‘residual’ confederative (federative) roots of Pakistan, fragmented composition of the country, changing origin of its military-cum-civil elite as well as current socio-political trends. Social problems, socio-economic and demographic processes are touched upon too. The author attempts to juxtapose dynamism of the society and conservatism of the state and to assess perspectives of Pakistan as a nation. Conclusions reached in the article include the assumption that the Pakistani nation, though born as a completely new political entity, has come of age. The majority of Pakistanis feel proud of the country and its achievements including the possession of missile and nuclear arsenals. They are as a rule well disposed towards the national army. In addition to the ‘negative’ identity based on traditional hostility to India the Pakistani nation has obtained a ‘positive’ one derived from common history of the last more than 70 years, religion of the overwhelming majority and belonging to the soil and culture of the Indus Basin region. National identity has become stronger than various ethnic identities although local sentiments have been preserved and can hypothetically play a destructive role. The conflict in Afghanistan and instability in the Middle East may complicate consolidation of the nation by propping up ethno-religious militancy in backward areas populated by Baluchis, Pakhtuns and Southern Punjabis.