Epaper_22-10-19 ISB

PM for constituting exPerts’ coMMittee on cliMate change

g LAuDS MInISTer fOr CLIMATe CHAnGe Over PLeADInG CASe Of PAKISTAn GLObALLy

g STreSSeS IMPrOveD rISK MAPPInG, CAPACITy buILDInG TO ACCeSS CLIMATe fInAnCe, DAMAGe ASSeSSMenT

preciating the initiative of the federal Government, emphasized on the need of devising a national Adaptation Plan and strict implementation of the existing environment laws to mitigate the effects of climate change.

The PCCC was constituted under the Pakistan Climate Change Act, 2017. The current PCCC was notified on August 29, 2022. The Council is headed by the Prime Minister with 26 official and 20 non-official members.

The function of the Council is to advise and coordinate on Pakistan’s international commitments on climate change and environment issues, mainstreaming climate change concerns into decision making and implementation of comprehensive adaptation and mitigation policies.

SC acquits Shahrukh Jatoi in Shahzeb murder case

ISLAMABAD staff report

Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday acquitted Shahrukh Jatoi and his accomplices in the Shahzeb murder case.

ISLAMABAD staff report

PrIMeMinister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Tuesday directed to constitute an expert Committee on Climate Change which would be advising the federal Government with regard to strategies on the issues related to various aspects of climate change such as climate finance, adaptation, and loss and damage assessment.

The prime minister, who was chairing the first meeting of Pakistan Climate Change Council (PCCC) here, commended the initiative of the Ministry of Climate Change with regard to the constitution of the Climate Change Council and praised the Minister for Climate Change for pleading the case of Pakistan with regard to climate change, globally.

He said the climate change induced devastating floods had caused havoc across the country, especially in the provinces of Sindh and balochistan.

Despite having less than 1 percent share in the global carbon emission, Pakistan was one of the 10 countries most affected by climate change, he underlined, a press release issued by the PM Media Wing said.

The prime minister urged the need to improve risk mapping, capacity building to access climate finance as well as loss and damage assessment ability.

He emphasized on including risk mitigation and adaptation in disaster management strategies to reduce damages in the future.

The prime minister also stressed on the

need of better coordination among the federating units on environment issues as environment was a devolved subject after the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

The meeting was briefed that this year, Pakistan suffered overwhelming events like severe drought (that dried the delta area of Sindh province), forest fires, heat waves, glacier melting with three times than the average rate, glacial outbreak floods followed by heavy monsoon rains, were induced by climate change. It was informed that the World bank had estimated Pakistan’s recent flood losses at uS $ 40 billion.

Pakistan faced 152 extreme events related to climate change in the last two decades and there was 300 percent increase in Glacial Lake Outburst floods (GLOf), the meeting was told.

It was further briefed that high intensity heatwave persistence had increased to 41 days per year and Pakistan had the hottest cities in the world for straight three years with temperature rising as high as 53.7 degree celsius.

The participants were further briefed that the upcoming 27th Conference of Parties (COP) under the united nations, to be held in egypt in november 2022, would provide Pakistan with an opportunity to present its stance on vulnerability with regard to effects of climate change, water scarcity, food security, sea level rise and increase in climate induced migration.

The meeting was apprised that being a chair of Group 77 countries, Pakistan would also be pleading the case of the member countries with regard to the effects of climate change.

The participants of the meeting, while ap-

The meeting was attended by Minister for Climate Change Ms Sherry rehman, Minister for Information and broadcasting Ms Marriyum Aurangzeb, Minister for Water resources Syed Khursheed Shah, Minister for Power engineer Khurram Dastgir, AJK Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, provincial ministers and officials from Gilgit baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, environmental experts, lawyers, environmental journalists and members from the civil society. earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warned the united nations General Assembly (unGA) that climate disasters will not remain limited to his country, if the world did not take action against irresponsible environmental practices.

PM Sharif’s statement came as Pakistan continued to reel from the aftermath of devastating floods in the country, which have killed more than 1,500 people, uprooted millions, and washed away livestock, homes and crops on 4 million acres of land.

Pakistani officials have blamed the devastation on human-driven climate change and say the South Asian country is unfairly bearing the consequences of irresponsible environmental practices elsewhere in the world.

“What happened in Pakistan will not stay in Pakistan,” PM Sharif said in his address with the unGA. “Pakistan has never seen a more stark and devastating example of the impact of global warming. Life in Pakistan has changed forever.”

Pakistan is eighth on nGO Germanwatch’s Global Climate risk Index, a list of countries deemed most vulnerable to extreme weather caused by climate change, despite contributing less than 1 percent to global carbon emissions.

“It is therefore, entirely reasonable to expect some approximation of justice for this loss and damage, not to mention building back better with resilience,” PM Sharif said.

A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ijazul Ahsan heard the case. During the hearing, counsel for Shahrukh Sardar Latif Khosa, told the apex court that a formal pardon had already been issued and that his clients had no intention of spreading terror.

It merits mentioning that Shahzeb was murdered in 2012 in Karachi’s defence area over a petty dispute. An AntiTerrorism Court (ATC) had handed the death penalty to Shahrukh and his accomplice Siraj Ali Talpur for the murder, while Sajjad Ali Talpur and Ghulam Murtaza Lashari were awarded life sentences.

The SHC, while hearing appeals against the conviction, later commuted the death sentences into life imprisonment. Subsequently, all four accused approached the Supreme Court against the verdict of the high court.

GOVT TO CHALLENGE SHAHRUKH’S ACQUITTAL: The federal government announced to challenge the acquittal of Shahrukh Jatoi as well as his accomplices in Shahzeb Khan murder case.

In a statement, Attorney General’s (AG) Office said that a petition would be filed with the Supreme Court (SC) to reconsider its verdict. The statement said the opinion of the Attorney General’s Office was not sought before acquitting Jatoi.

“There were provisions of terrorism included in the murder case,” the AGP’s Office said, adding that in the decision of Jatoi’s acquittal, the Supreme Court’s conclusion deviates from the judicial decisions related to the crime of terrorism. Therefore, the case should be reviewed in view of the components of compromise, fasad-fil-arz (mischief on earth), and other matters.

Shahzeb murder case

Shahzeb, 20, was shot dead on the night between December 24 and 25 in 2012 in a posh locality of Karachi.

Shahrukh Jatoi was involved in the killing of Shahzeb Khan, the only son of a retired DSP, in Defence Housing Authority. An ATC handed him a death sentence in 2013.

In 2017, the complainant side had ‘pardoned’ him under the Qisas and Diyat law. However, in 2018, the Supreme Court of Pakistan took notice of it. Subsequently, his death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment by the Sindh High Court (SHC).

Army top brass reposes full trust in nuclear command, control system

RAWALAPINDI staff report

The Pakistan Army’s Corps Commanders on Tuesday expressed ‘full confidence’ in the country’s robust nuclear command and control system and security of its strategic nuclear arms, saying Islamabad has taken all steps necessary to buttress its nuclear atomic regime, said the Inter-Services Public relations (ISPr) on Tuesday.

According to ISPr statement issued on Tuesday, this was the outcome of the 252nd Corps Commanders’ Conference which was held at General Headquarters (GHQ) with Chief of the Army Staff General Qamar Javed bajwa in the chair.

The statement of confidence by the military top brass comes days after uS President Joe biden kicked up a storm by claiming that “Pakistan was the most dangerous country in the world” due to lack of “cohesion and nukes”.

“I am surprised at President biden’s statement,” foreign Minister bilawal bhutto-Zardari had reacted at a news conference in Karachi while Prime Min-

ister Shehbaz Sharif dismissed concerns over Pakistan’s nuclear programme as “factually incorrect”

During the 252nd Corps Commanders Conference presided over by COAS General Qamar Javed bajwa, the forum was informed that Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear state, had ‘taken all measures’ to strengthen its nuclear security regime’ which is at par with international best practices.

The ISPr statement said the participants took a comprehensive review of the prevailing internal and external security situation and operational preparedness of the Armed forces.

The conference attendees were also apprised of the army’s assistance to the civil administration for relief and rehabilitation efforts in flood-affected areas of the country as well as the post-flood situation, particularly in Sindh and balochistan.

While expressing satisfaction over operational preparedness of the formations, the COAS reiterated Pakistan Army’s resolve to defend the motherland against all threats.

The forum reposed full confidence in Pakistan’s robust nuclear command and control structure and security arrangements related to country’s strategic assets.

As a responsible nuclear weapon state, Pakistan has taken all measures necessary to strengthen its nuclear security regime, at par with international best practices, the forum was informed.

The army chief lauded the formations’ operational readiness and sustained efforts during flood relief duties, added the military’s media wing.

The reassurance about the nuclear safety system came after uS President Joe biden remarks about Pakistan’s atomic weapons.

US ‘CONfIdENT’ Of PAKISTAN’S AbILITy TO SECURE NUKES: The united States

said on Monday that it had confidence in Pakistan’s ability to secure its nuclear arsenal after President Joe biden expressed alarm, leading Islamabad to summon the uS ambassador.

“The united States is confident of Pakistan’s commitment and its ability to secure its nuclear assets,” State Department spokesperson vedant Patel told reporters.

“The uS has always viewed a secure and prosperous Pakistan as critical to uS interests and, more broadly, the uS values our long-standing cooperation with Pakistan,” he said.

Meanwhile, Islamabad and Washington have been working quietly to make sure recent efforts seeking a reset in the relationship remain on track.

According to reports, the uS conveyed to Pakistan that President biden’s statement did not mean any new demand or policy shift in Washington’s approach.

Although Pakistan rejected biden’s statement and summoned the uS ambassador to record a formal protest, both countries are keen to move on from the controversy.

SC aSkS NaB to preServe, digitize itS reCord

ISLAMABAD App

tHESupreme Court on Tuesday continued hearing of Pakistan Tehreek-e-insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s petition against amendments in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Ordinance.

A three-member SC bench comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijaz Ul Ahsan and Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah heard the case.

During the course of proceedings, the

Supreme Court ordered the NAB to preserve and digitize the records including details of references returned after the amendment.

The Chief Justice remarked that the court believed that every responsible should be held accountable, but here everyone was still looking for criteria to test the NAB law. It had been published in newspapers and other circles that there should not be NAB prosecution on certain sections including the business community, he added.

He said that politicians had been declared corrupt since 1947 and the Supreme

Court’s action was to balance this process but this debate should be held in the parliament. Even in 1947 there was an accountability law, he added.

Justice Mansoor Ali Shah remarked that how could the court design a law and send it to the Parliament. He asked why and how the court could interfere in the affairs of the parliament.

He asked how could the Supreme Court determine that what should be the NAB law? The council argued that the NAB law was malicious, how could the court design a law for the parliament, he asked.

PTI lawyer Khawaja Haris, while continuing the arguments, said that major cases including the rental power case were dropped, the financial benefit of the third party was taken out of NAB’s reach through the recent amendments. The Supreme Court in the past had been designing laws for the parliament, he added.

Makhdoom Ali Khan said that NAB was not submitting all the records as it was only submitting the decisions of the accountability courts to the Supreme Court.

Justice Ijaz-ul-Ahsan inquired that if the Chairman NAB did not send the returned

Five-member SC bench to take up contempt plea against Imran tomorrow

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

The Supreme Court (SC) set up a fivemember bench, led by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, take up a contempt of court petition against former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan for hearing on Thursday (tomorrow).

The five-member SC bench, led by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, consists of Justice Ijazul Hassan, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi and Justice Mazahar Ali Naqvi.

It is important to mention here that the federal government had filed a contempt of court petition against former prime minister in Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan over his long march call towards

Islamabad. The federal government moved the apex court against Imran Khan, stating that the former premier was

iHC disposes of contempt case against aitzaz ahsan

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday disposed of a contempt of court petition against senior lawyer Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan for his statement about state institutions. Chief Justice Athar Minallah, during preliminary hearing, remarked that if Pakistan Bar Council or any other bar had doubt about the impartiality of this court and If that was not the case, then why the court should pay attention to the irresponsible statement of anyone. The ICJ Chief Justice remarked that the verdicts of this court would eventually decide that how much people trust it. This court wouldn’t seek unnecessary clarification from anyone, he added. Justice Athar Minallah noted that a number of vlogs and news were run on daily basis against this court but it had not affected performance of this court. He said the contempt of court proceeding was not the solution to this problem. Petitioner Capt (r) Muhammad Safdar said that the controversial statement was given by senior lawyer who had been appearing before the courts for forty years. “We had full trust in the judicial system of the country”, he added. He said that on decision of this court — in which detailed judgment was still pending — was criticized by Aitzaz Ahsan. The senior lawyer had given statement against the judiciary and state institutions, he added.

making announcements regarding long march to Islamabad that was violation of a court order. The petition was filed by

Interior Ministry on behalf of the federal government. “The PTI Chairman was violating the Supreme Court’s order, which directed him to stage peaceful protest,” the plea stated, urging the apex court to direct Imran Khan to ensure implementation of its orders related to protests and sit-ins. Earlier in October, former prime minister said that he will not reveal the long march date to anyone as “everything is being recorded”.

Speaking to senior journalists at the Chief Minister’s House in Lahore, the PTI chief said that he had kept his long march plan secret and no one knew the long march date including the party’s vice-chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

“I have kept the date to myself… Shah Mehmood Qureshi is my vicechairman, I did not tell him either”.

Mrs Khar reaches Paris as FATF will decide Pakistan’s fate tomorrow

PARIS Agencies

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar has reached Paris to attend a meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The delegation led by Hina Rabbani Khar held a meeting with Jean-Louis Bourlanges, President of the Foreign Affairs Commission at the French National Assembly.

Pakistan-France bilateral relations including parliamentary cooperation, situation of floods in Pakistan, as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest were discussed during the meetings.

The minister extended an invitation to the president to visit Pakistan to further strengthen parliamentary contacts and cooperation between the two countries.

Earlier, the minister held a roundtable with a group of French intellectuals, members of think tanks and scholars. She shared Pakistan’s perspective on important national,

regional and global matters while discussing in-depth the issues raised by the participants.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will meet on Friday, October 20, to decide Pakistan’s fate.

reference anywhere, then would the matter be over. There may be a need to amend the NAB law, he added.

The PTI counsel said that references were not being filed anywhere else. The prosecutor NAB said committees had been formed in every region.

The Supreme Court ordered that references, records, evidence, information, documents should be preserved, a list of everything should be compiled and preserved.

Subsequently, hearing of the case was adjourned till Wednesday.

pti moves SJC for removal of CeC Sikandar Sultan raja

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday filed a reference before the Supreme Judicial Council against Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja. In the reference filed through senior lawyer Babar Awan, the PTI pleaded with the SJC to order removal of the CEC on account of the “commission of continuous and deliberate misconduct”. In the 10page reference, PTI claimed that Sikandar Raja Sultan had violated the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) code of conduct and failed to fulfill his constitutional obligations. It contended that 123 PTI lawmakers had resigned from National Assembly, which was also accepted by then deputy speaker Qasim Suri. PTI said that the incumbent NA Speaker Raja Pervaiz started the process again and approved 11 resignations and ECP also issued notification regarding the resignation of lawmakers. “On July 28, NA Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf accepted 11 resignations of PTI lawmakers and on next day ECP issued a notification on that vacant seats which shows raises a question on the partiality of CEC,” it added.

pti challenges ppp’s win in Na-237 by-election

KARACHI stAff RepoRt

PTI has challenged the victory of PPP’s Abdul Hakeem Baloch in the NA-237 by-election in the Sindh High Court (SHC). The petition was filed by PTI leader Ali Zaidi via his lawyer Dr Shahab Imam and has named the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the Sindh government and the winning candidate Baloch as the respondents. The PTI has claimed in its petition that the “worst” kind of rigging was done in the by-polls, alleging the PPP workers polled fake votes. They also informed the court that they had complained to the ECP about the rigging. The party has prayed to the court to investigate the rigging claims. On Sunday, byelections were held on eight National Assembly seats and three Punjab Assembly seats. PTI Chairman Imran Khan was contesting from seven of the eight NA constituencies.One of those constituencies was NA-237 Malir-II, where the PTI chief was defeated. PPP’s Abdul Hakeem Baloch emerged victorious from the constituency by obtaining 32,567 votes. With nearly 10,000 votes less than Baloch, Khan bagged 22,493.

Commission vows to resolve grievances of Baloch students

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

rawalpindi court suspends eviction order for Lal Haveli

RAWALPINDI stAff RepoRt

A local court on Tuesday suspended the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) notice, directing Awami Muslim League (AML) Chief Sheikh Rashid Ahmed to vacate his Lal Haveli residence within seven days. Additional Sessions Judge Khursheed Alam Bhatti announced the decision on Rashid’s application who had challenged the notice in the court through his counsel. The former interior minister’s lawyer requested the court to suspend the authority’s notice which was issued to his client for “political victimisation”. After hearing the arguments, the judge suspended the ETPB’s eviction order and summoned the deputy commissioner of the authority, saying that notice was illegal as the matter was already pending before the court.

The Commission to investigate the grievances of the Students from Balochistan under the chair of Member National Assembly (MNA) Sardar Akhtar Mengal on Tuesday assured the students of its full cooperation to probe the matter in detail and work out solutions to end grievances of the students from Balochistan.

The first meeting of the Commission was mandated to enquire and investigate the grievances of students belonging to the province of Balochistan was attended by Senator Mian Raza Rabbani, Senator Kamran Murtaza, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Former Senator Afrasiab Khattak, General Secretary Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf, Asad Umer, former Chief Secretary, Nasir Mehmood Khosa, Balochistan, Prof. Dr. Asma Faiz, Mushtaq Ahmad Gurmani School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Lahore University of Management Sciences and Officials from the

Ministry of Interior and Human Rights, a news release said.

The Commission took the notice of the matter of ongoing grievances of the students belonging to Balochistan enrolled in the educational institutions across the country. The meeting discussed the grave situation prevailing in all the educational institutions across the country regarding “racial profiling”,

enforced disappearances and lack of response by state functionaries.

The meeting also appreciated the initiative of the Islamabad High Court, for the constitution of this Commission to probe the matter that involved the grave violation of constitutionally guaranteed rights.

The panel unanimously resolve to complete the task within the given time and would investigate

the matter in light of the decisions made by the Federal and Provincial High Courts so far.

The meeting also unanimously decided to obtain feedback through a dedicated phone number and email, from all stakeholders and expressed resolve to complete the task within the given time frame.

The students from Balochistan, enrolled in various universities across the country apprised the members of the Commission of their concerns pertaining to swelling cases of disappearances, racial profiling and harassment.

The members of the Commission assured the students of their full cooperation and decided to go deep into the matter and find a way out so that the grievances of the students from Balochistan are wiped out.

By taking the sense of the Commission, the convener of the panel showed his intent to call Chairman HEC (Higher Education Commission) and concerned VCs (Vice-Chancellors) in the next meeting of the Commission.

pak, UzBekiStaN agree to BooSt CooperatioN iN edUCatioN, SkiLLS deveLopmeNt

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

pAKISTAN and Uzbekistan Tuesday agreed to enhance mutual cooperation, especially in the field of education and vocational training.

The development was reached during a called on meeting between Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Ambassador of Republic of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Aybek Arif Usmanov.

The senior officials of the ministry were also present in the meeting. On the occasion, Rana Tanveer welcomed the Uzbek delegation and said that the two countries had always had friendly and cordial relations. He said that Uzbekistan had strong ties within Central Asia and Pakistan would enhance its ties to with Uzbekistan and Central Asia as well.

Rana Tanveer discussed exchange of expertise and knowledge regarding Vocational and Technical Training. He said

that the two countries should benefit from the experience of each other.

Rana Tanveer Hussain welcomed the exchange of students to further mutual cooperation especially for Skilled Vocational Training.

He said that there was significant

Siddiqui appointed dg int’l tax operations

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has appointed Sajidullah Siddiqui, a BS-21 officer of Inland Revenue Services (IRS), as Director General, Directorate General of International Tax Operations, FBR, Islamabad. According to the FBR notification issued here on Tuesday, he has resigned from the post of Director General, Directorate General of Immovable Property, Islamabad (Stationed at Karachi) and taken over the post.Muhammad Ayaz, a BS-20 officer of IR services has taken over the charge of the post Commissioner-IR (Peshawar Zone), Regional Tax Office, Peshawar. FBR also notify that Dr Muhammad Aslam Mari, a BS-20 officer of IR Services has assumed the charge of the post Commissioner-IR (Audit-III), Corporate Tax Office, Karachi. Basit Saleem Shah, a BS-19 officer of IR services has taken over the charge of the post Chief (OPS) (Legal-III), Legal-IR Wing, FBR (HQ), Islamabad.

rupee continues shedding value against dollar

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

Pakistan rupee continued shedding value against greenback on Tuesday and depreciated by 82 paisa against the US dollar in the interbank trading to close at Rs219.71 against the previous day’s closing of Rs 218.89. According to the Forex Association of Pakistan (FAP), the buying and selling rates of the dollar in the open market were recorded at Rs224 and Rs226 respectively. The price of Euro appreciated by Rs3.01 and closed at Rs216.39 against the last day’s closing of Rs 213.40. The Japanese Yen remained unchanged to close at Rs1.47, whereas a decrease of Rs2.49 was witnessed in the exchange rate of the British Pound, which was traded at Rs 249.10 as compared to its last day’s closing of Rs 246.61. The exchange rates of Emirates Dirham and Saudi Riyal increased by 23 paisa each to close at Rs 59.81 and Rs 58.48 respectively.

potential in cooperation between the two countries.

The ambassador invited Rana Tanveer on the World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education.

He informed Republic of Uzbekistan would host the Second World Conference on

Early Childhood Care and Education (WCECCE), co-organized with UNESCO from November 14 to 16 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

He informed the minister that The World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education (WCECCE) was a UNESCO intergovernmental meeting (Category II) that aimed to reaffirm the right of every young child to quality care and education from birth to age 8, and to urge Member States” renewed commitment to investing in Sustainable Development Goal (SD) Target 4.2 to ensure “all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education.”

Rana Tanveer said that a Joing Working Group (JWG) should be formulated to streamline and execute cooperation between the two countries on priority basis.

The minister said that a JWG could enhance collaboration in the field of education.

He said that University to University cooperation and Technical Institution to

Technical Institution collaboration was the way forward. Rana Tanveer said that the future was in Vocational Training of the population of Pakistan.

He said that it provided the best opportunity to the people to find jobs. He said that Pakistan and Uzbekistan through NAVTTC should exchange teachers and students to learn from the expertise of each other.

Rana Tanveer praised the current governments’ efforts in modernising the education system of Pakistan. The minister thanked the ambassador and highlighted the cordial and friendly relations between the two countries.

At the end the ambassador stressed to further enhance cooperation between the two countries in the field of education.

The minister said that our relations had always been marked by trust, mutual understanding and close cooperation and Pakistan attached high importance to its relations with Uzbekistan and was desirous of further enhancing these relations in all fields of mutual interests.

JI to move SC against postponement of Karachi LG elections

KARACHI stAff RepoRt

Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Karachi chief Hafiz Naeem ur Rahman has announced to move Supreme Court (SC) against the postponement of local government (LG) elections in Karachi, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

Addressing a press conference in Karachi, the JI Karachi chief accused the election commission of supporting the Pakistan People’s Party-led (PPP) Sindh government, terming the postponement of LG elections ‘unfortunate act’.

“Why is PPP afraid of the local government polls if it claims to be a democratic party,” Hafiz Naeemur Rahman said, adding that the

postponement of these polls is antidemocratic.

While announcing to move Supreme Court (SC) against the postponement of LG elections, the JI leader said the party would launch a big movement for the betterment of Karachi.

“The people of Karachi are deprived of their basic rights,” he said, adding that JI has become the only solution for the city and the citizens because the candidates and leaders of the party have no criminal records against them.

He also accused ECP of working as a tool of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), saying that if the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) should resign if he cannot hold elections.

It is pertinent to mention here that

PM terms MQM-P an import ally; assures to address their reservations

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said that MQM-P is an important ally of the coalition government and the agreement between the Centre and the province will be implemented.

“We will not leave Karachi alone. I will discuss this matter with Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari by myself,” assured the premier.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was talking with members of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) delegation who called on him to apprise him of the party’s reservations, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

The MQM-P delegation comprised Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Waseem Akhtar and Faisal Sabzwari, whereas, the meeting was also attended by federal ministers Rana Sanaullah, Khawaja Saad Rafique and Ayaz Sadiq.

Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori apprised PM Shehbaz Sharif about MQM-P’s reservations on different

issues including the delimitation in the province, said sources, adding that the political party gave its stance that elections could not be held without proper delimitation, otherwise, it would be ‘injustice’.

The MQM-P leaders complained about non-implementation of the deal on Local Governor (LG) Act amendments and Article 140A.

They said that Shehbaz Sharif, Fazlur Rehman and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) had acted as guarantors of the political agreement, hence, they should take a concrete decision. They also demanded PM Sharif to inform MQM-P leadership at the earliest if PPP was not agreeing to implement the political agreement.

The delegation members said that the political party suffered unbearable loss due to non-implementation of the agreement. The MQM-P clarified that it would not be part of the coalition government anymore if the issues of urban Sindh are not addressed.

‘Regretting to back PPP, PML-N’

Yesterday, Waseem Akhtar has said

that they are regretting joining hands with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N).

Exiting the government is easier said than done, said Waseem Akhtar.

Talking exclusively to ARY News the MQM-P leader said that winning with 50,000 votes in a constituency with 600,000 voters is not a big deal.

MQM-P’s vote bank is being dismantled through unfair delimitations, he added. He added that all political parties lost the by-polls as only 8% of people voted in Karachi.

Has Murataz Wahab delivered in Karachi if MQM-P failed? he questioned.

He added that cases against all other political parties, including the PPP and PML-N, were quashed but their ‘clapping’ cases were not.

Meanwhile, differences are reported to have arisen from MQM-P as Amir Khan was not invited to the party’s ‘important meeting’ at Sindh Governor House, ARY News reported on Monday.

President Alvi files Reko Diq reference in SC

ISLAMABAD Agencies

President Arif Alvi, on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Monday filed a reference in the Supreme Court to get validation for the new Reko Diq project deal under Article 186 of the Constitution.

The government will seek an opinion from the apex court regarding the contract with Barrick Gold Corporation, a Canadabased mining group, in the Reko Diq reference.

Earlier, Barrick Gold Corporation had asked the government to get the Reko Diq gold and copper deal stamped by parliament

and the Supreme Court for the long-term sustainability of the company’s investment in the project.

Reko Diq is one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper-gold mines. The project is being restarted after remaining on hold since 2011.

Last month, a federal cabinet meeting was held under the chairmanship of the prime minister, in which the cabinet approved filing the presidential reference to the Supreme Court on Reko Diq.

It said that the government sought opinions on two questions. First, is the deal with the complainant company, TCC, compliant with the apex court’s earlier

judgment in the Maulvi Abdul Haq case? Second, is the proposed Investment Protection Act compliant with the Constitution?

It is believed the chief justice of Pakistan will form a five-judge larger bench to hear the presidential reference.

The apex committee, headed by the minister for finance and comprising Tethyan Copper Company Pakistan (Private) Limited shareholders among others, had agreed to a framework for the settlement and revival of the Reko Diq project in March 2022.

According to the settlement, 50% of the new project’s shares would be owned by Barrick Gold, while the remaining shares

would be owned by Pakistan, divided equally between the Centre and the Balochistan government.

The federal government’s share of 25% will be divided equally among three stateowned entities — the Oil and Gas Development Corporation Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), and Government Holdings Pakistan Limited (GHPL).

Balochistan’s share shall be held by a company wholly-owned and controlled by the provincial government. As part of the prime minister’s vision for Balochistan, the provincial government’s share of capital and operating expenses for the project shall be

iHC summons dig in missing person’s case

ISLAMABAD stAff RepoRt

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday summoned DIG Operations capital’s police in personal capacity in a case seeking recovery of missing citizen.

Justice Aamer Farooq, hearing the case, expressed annoyance over absence of DIG operations and said that the conduct of the police was not respectable. The officers used to get sick when the court issued summon notices to them, he said. The court observed that the police officials had been giving different statements before it for last four months regarding the missing citizen, Muhammad Hamid.

The court said that the police should inform whether the missing citizen alive or not. It said that there were basic human rights as per the constitution, adding that any citizen could be arrested and tried but he should not be get disappeared. The court adjourned further hearing of the case till coming Friday.

borne by the Centre. The Balochistan government will not incur any expenses in the development of the mines.

In developing the project, nearly $10 billion will be invested in Balochistan, including $1 billion for social uplift projects — roads, schools, hospitals and the creation of technical training institutes for mining. The investment will create over 8,000 new jobs.

The project will also make Balochistan the largest recipient of foreign direct investment in the country. To ensure optimal utilisation of the nation’s mineral wealth, the government is also considering setting up a smelter.

the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) postponed the local government (LG) elections in Karachi scheduled for

October 23. This was the third time ECP has postponed the second phase of LG polls in Sindh.

MAzAri deMAndS CJP to tAke notiCe oF CuStodiAL torture on SwAti

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

PAKISTANTehreek-e-Insaf

(PTI) Senior Vice President Dr. Shireen Mazari demanded the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) to take immediate notice of custodial torture on 74-year-old Senator Azam Swati by agencies who was stripped naked and gave electric shocks on his sensitive parts in similar methods used in Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo.

In a statement on Tuesday, Dr Shireen Mazari urged the CJP that being the upholder of fundamental rights of all citizens, surely the CJP should take immediate notice of the custodial torture inflicted on Azam Swati by Agencies, as per his statement in the court.

She said that they stripped him naked and gave electric shocks on sensitive parts, which was shameful.

Mazari stated that this practice by

Court jails three for life in Fahad Malik murder case

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

Agencies of stripping naked those in custody was not only a complete violation of all laws and our Constitutional guarantees of human rights but reflected a perverted mindset.

“Is this what’s learnt from training in US because similar to Abu Ghraib and

Guantanamo methods,” she raised question. Reacting to ECP decision of postponing LG polls second round in Karachi, she stated that if there was any doubt at all of the bias embedded in present ECP led by a CEC, who is now effectively working for PMLN and the

imported government, this should remove that doubt. This duality of approach has no rationality behind it at all, she added.

In response to the US state department statement that Pakistan nuclear assets are secure, she told US President Joe Biden that our entire nuclear command and control has been safe since start.

She said: “No accidents, no inadvertent missile firings and no live nukes going missing”, adding that neither is US and India’s Command and Control with live nukes going missing on B52s, missiles fired accidentally and fissile material sold nor were Biden remarks “off the cuff”.

She said that they are in the official text and any US Presidential speech where remarks are made on foreign policy can never be off the cuff. So Sleepy Joe needs to apologise to Pakistan, she demanded, adding that what a “reset” of Pak-US relations by our Conspirators.

TIKA to provide free wheat seeds to flood affected farmers in Sindh

An Islamabad sessions court handed down life sentence to three accused in 2016 murder case of Barrister Fahad Malik. The court handed life term to Raja Arshad, Raja Hashim and Noman Khokhar, who were nominated in August 2016 murder case. The murder trial was concluded after six years last week when the court reserved its verdict in the high-profile murder case. Fahad Malik, a nephew of former Chairman Senate and PTI leader Mohammedmian Soomro, was gunned down in Sector F-10 of Islamabad in August 2016. District and Sessions Judge Ata Rabbani reserved decision after completion of arguments from lawyers of the two sides. Advocate Akram Qureshi and Zain Qureshi represented the plaintiff and the murder victim. The trial of Fahad Malik murder case, moved from an anti-terrorism court, high court, Supreme Court to reach to the sessions court Islamabad for hearing. All three accused were produced in the court when the judge pronounced verdict of the murder case. Barrister Fahad Malik was murdered in Shalimar police station jurisdiction on August 15, 2016, in densely populated area of Islamabad by Noman Khokhar, Raja Arshad and Raja Hashim.

Pakistanis say ‘no to slavery’ in by-polls: Asad

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Secretary General Asad Umar vowed that the people of the country would give unequivocal and unambiguous verdict against the imported government in Sunday’s by-polls by casting votes to the PTI to say ‘goodbye to slavery’ once and for all. Talking to media persons, PTI Central Secretary General urged the people that it was not an ordinary elections but a jihad to rid the country of these cable of crooks to achieve the real independence. He said that all the political analysts and observers were unanimous on the point that PTI Chairman would quite comfortable thrash its political opponents to regain power in the country if ECP held fair and transparent elections. However, Asad said that the ECP did not work as in impartial state institutions, as there were reports cropped up from several polling stations of severe electoral irregularities. He stated that police special branch people were sitting in polling stations in Karachi and were trying to influence the votes, adding that Rana Sanaullah also run the elections campaign in sheer violations of election code of conduct. Umar went on to say that let see what the ECP should do on these massive irregularities, as it was said that notice was taken. However, he added that whether it would remain mere a notice or some practical and tangible actions were taken against the responsible people. Terming the turn out good, he said that ‘today’s evening the nation will tell clearly that they will not accept slavery come what may’. Taking about the country’s crippling economic situation, PTI Secretary General expressed apprehension, as the country was going from bad to worse, as reports emanating from international markets were clearly indicating that Pakistan was fast heading towards default.

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), a subsidiary agency of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Turkia in collaboration with Sindh Agriculture University Tando Jam and Sindh Agriculture Extension and Research Departments will provide free wheat seeds to poor small farmers who have one to ten acres of land in eight rains and floods affected districts of Sindh.

In this regard, regional representatives of TIKA led by Programme Coordinator Halil Ibrahim Basaran Tuesday visited Sindh Agriculture University Tando Jam with Vice Chancellor Dr Fateh Marri and discussed different matter of mutual interest regarding agriculture, export, culture and history of both brotherly countries.

The TIKA Programme Coordinator informed the Vice Chancellor that certified wheat seeds for two acres will be provided free of cost to 600 farmers of eight rains and floods affected districts in Sindh included Dadu, Khairpur,

Sanghar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Badin, Matiari, Umerkot and Mirpurkhas, for which the Agriculture Extension and Research Departments of Sindh Government will support the Agency.

It was informed that the seeds will be given to the farmers who possessed one to ten acres of land. The agriculture department will support for the list of farmers, as well as the demarcation of areas.

Vice Chancellor Dr Fateh Marri said that the Turkish government was supporting the poor farmers of Sindh and the university management will

carry out the work of better seeds and its transparent distribution responsibly and our experts will perform their services.

Among others, Dean of Crop Production Faculty Dr Inayatullah Rajpar, Director University Advancement and Financial Assistance Dr. Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar, in-charge Seed Development and Production Cell Dr Zahoor Soomro, Dr Aijaz Soomro, Dr Tahmina Nagraj, Dr. Muhammad Rafique and Dr. Islamuddin Rajput of Sindh Agriculture Department were also present in the meeting.

Sindh CM approves summary seeking amendments to LG Act

KARACHI Staff RepoRt

Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Murad Ali Shah has approved a summary seeking amendments to Local Government (LG) Act, making next Karachi mayor as chairman of several municipal institutions. According to details, the amended local government (LG) act will be tabled in the next session of the Sindh Assembly for approval. The draft law will likely be passed through an ordinance. Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori is expected to issue an ordinance which will later be sent to the provincial assembly for ratification into law as a bill. As per the amendments, the next mayor would be the ex-officio chairman of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) and chairman of the Karachi Development Authority (KDA). Meanwhile, the Karachi mayor will also be made a member of governor body of Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB). Moreover, chairmen of Hyderabad, Sukkur Larkana Development Authorities will be considered mayors of the cities.

Sindh ready to conduct LG polls on 23rd, says Memon

KARACHI INp

Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon Tuesday said that the provincial government was ready to hold local government (LG) polls on October 23. After Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced to postpone Karachi LG polls, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon claimed that the provincial government was ready to hold LG election any time. In a statement, the minister said that the provincial government had written a letter to the ECP for holding LG polls in two phases due to shortage of concerned officers following rain emergency. He added that the election commission rejected the proposal. “The election commission is a respectable institution for us. Sindh government is ready to hold LG polls on October 23.”

British HC visits flood hit areas of Jaccobabad

SUKKUR Staff RepoRt

The Chinese government has gifted a desalination plant of 1.2 million gallons per day (MGD) capacity for the port city of Gwadar to provide clean drinking water to its residents.

According to, Gwadar lacks clean drinking water facility whereas this desalination plant of 1.2 million gallons per day (MGD) capacity would help purify sea water and make it safe for human consumption.

The reports said that the desalination plant would be installed in Gwadar Free Zone to supply potable water to Old city area along with Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) requirement.

The project would cost $12.7 million which would be financed by the Chinese government. However, a contracting company on the basis of EPC from CIDCA would be hired for the project execution.

Almost 70 percent of the population of Gwadar was facing acute

water shortage and required some 7.5 million liters of water to feed its existing population whereas the desalination plant would provide clean drinking water for the water parched masses, an official of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs told APP.

He added that the Ministry would be the supervising agency of the project. The project implementation agreement was signed on July 5, 2021 whereas the civil work would being kicked start this year and would be completed in 12 months.

The British High Commissioner along with British minister and Commonwealth representatives visited the flood-ravaged areas of Jacobabad, told an official of district administration on Tuesday. During the visit, they reviewed medical camp set up for the flood victims. Giving a briefing DC Jacobabad informed the guests that the district administration had been taking all possible measures to help the victims, adding that the affected families needed financial assistance to stand on their feet. Tents, blankets, clothes and heaters are required on urgent basis as the winter is fast approaching, he said. The British High Commissioner assured the flood victims of continued support from the UK.

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

HYDERABAD Staff RepoRt

China gifts desalination plant to provide potable water to Gwadar residents

FAzL CHAIRS JUI-F CEC’S mEEtInG todAy to dEvISE FUtURE StRAtEGy In AFtERmAtH oF By-PoLLS dEFEAt

ISLAMABAD staff report

JAMIATUlema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman is going to chair an important meeting of his party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) on Wednesday (today).

In an exclusive talk with APP, JUIF Spokesperson Muhammad Aslam Ghauri told that the arrangements of meeting had been finalized and the CEC members had started reaching Islamabad to attend the meeting.

He said besides reviewing performance of the federal ministers be-

longing to the JUI-F, the future strategy would be devised keeping in view the recent results of by-elections, held on various seats of national and provincial assemblies across the country in the meeting. The flood situation would also be the focal agenda of the meeting as well, he maintained.

Criticizing Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI)’s rallies, he said Imran Khan should avoid drawing comparison between PTI rallies and that of the JUI-F, adding that the JUI-F had held more than a dozen million marches and never damaged a single flowerpot nor occurred any untoward incident.

Aslam Ghauri said the participants

of JUI-F rallies stayed for 15 days in the federal capital but with discipline and restraint while the unruly mob of PTI attacked on national institutions including Parliament House, Pakistan Television headquarters and other buildings.

He said the PTI chief wanted to disintegrate the federating units and create chaos in the country in the lust of power. The government would establish the writ of state at all costs to get rid of this mischief.

He said the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments had fully used public resources in the by-elections. Imran Khan should accept the decision of Election Commission in the

prohibited foreign funding case instead of blowing his own trumpet for the byeelections achievements, he maintained.

He also proposed that the PTI chief should go to the Parliament and discuss the issues in the larger interests of public and country.

He was of the view that Imran Khan was a man of double standards as he was least bothered to go in the parliament but taking part in the bye-elections.

The JUI-F spokesperson said this was the only party which had sunk economy of the country during its regime and being in opposition, he had wasted millions of rupees and precious time of the public in the bye-elections.

Pakistani politics enter decisive phase: Sh Rashid

Researchers whet their skills at UoG workshop

GUJRAT staff report

With a view to promoting research culture and introducing modern trends and techniques, the Office for Research, Innovation & Commercialization (ORIC) organized a twoday workshop here at Hafiz Hayat Campus of the University of Gujrat (UoG) the other day.

Researchers and senior academics from different departments attended the workshop, titled “Systematic Review”, to whet their skills and capabilities.

The inaugural session was presided over by Dean Faculty of Science Prof Dr Muhammad Mushahid Anwar.

Usman Arshad was the resource person of the training workshop. “Problem analysis is the first step to complete scholarly research,” Dr Mushahid Anwar said, adding that training workshops play an important role in exposing teachers to innovative research methods, perspectives and concepts.

Dr Adil Rasheed said that the two-day training would go a long way in promoting professional competence among teachers, but also adding credence and quality to their research topic. Systematic review, he added, was fast gaining ground as a practical necessity for psychology researchers and their supervisors.

Usman Arshad said that a solution to modern problems is possible by expanding the field of academic research. He focussed on the various possibilities with the help of research design and research materials, especially with reference to modern research and its enormous impact on society.

Dean Prof. Dr Zahid Yousuf highlighted the profound impact of the rsearch culture on the positive development of society.

Lincoln Corners highlight shared values among Pakistanis, Americans: US CG

KARACHI staff report

US Consul General Nicole Theriot and Sindh Culture Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah signed the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the four Lincoln Corners (LCs) set up in public libraries in Karachi, Hyderabad, Khairpur and Larkana.

Lincoln Corner Karachi at the Liaquat Memorial Library is the largest in Sindh and features a unique one-of-a-kind space in Pakistan called “Startup Lab” where aspiring entrepreneurs can turn ideas into a startup business using the latest technology and equipment – all for free.

Lincoln Corners are partnerships between the United States and Pakistani public libraries, universities, and community centers. They are event spaces and resource centers that connect young leaders with the United States. Online and in-person programs are free and open to the public, a tangible symbol of the strength and breadth of U.S.-Pakistan relations, according to a communiqué.

“As we celebrate 75 years of US-Pakistan relations, our Lincoln Corners in Pakistan contribute to expanding our people-to-people ties, bringing Pakistanis and Americans together, and providing access to educational resources and information.

Lincoln Corners highlight the shared values among Pakistanis and Americans, especially with regard to education and democracy,” noted Consul General Theriot at the ceremony.

Since 2013, in partnership with the Department of Culture, the Government of Sindh and the U.S. Consulate General Karachi have supported these four Lincoln Corners at the public libraries of Sindh.

The Lincoln Corners in Karachi, Hyderabad, Khairpur, and Larkana are a part of a network of 18 Lincoln Corners throughout Pakistan and over 600 American Spaces around the world.

The Pakistan American Cultural Center (PACC) has been providing programming and logistical support to the Lincoln Corners in Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces through a $1 million grant funded by the U.S. Government.

Awami Muslim League Pakistan (AMLP) leader Sheikh Rashid on Tuesday said that the backdoor talks have always been failed, saying Pakistani politics has entered a decisive phase.

Taking to his Twitter handle on Tuesday, former Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid said that after Sunday’s by-elections, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) is running away from the elections.

While talking about the Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) supremo and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, he said that Nawaz Sharif had to go through a lot to go to London, he won’t come

back easily.

Lashing out at the government for the huge number of ministers’ in the federal cabinet, Sh Rashid said that the total number of ministers in the cabinet have reached up to 76, out which 20 are without portfolio

and 25 did not even submitted their returns.

The former minister said that the circular-credit has reached up to the unbelievable level. Meanwhile, he said that the months of October and November are decisive.

MQM-P not to wait for long to quit coalition govt: Kh Izhar

KARACHI staff report

Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) central leader Khawaja Izharul Hassan said Tuesday that his party will not wait for another 3.5 years to leave the coalition government.

While talking to ARY News programme Off the Record, Khawaja Izharul Hassan said that MQM-P has not solely taken responsibility to establish democracy in the country.

“MQM-P is fighting for the rights of Karachi since 2017. The court has given a verdict in MQM-P’s favour and the political is waiting for its implementation.”

Hassan said that Karachiites are extremely disappointed with the current governance system and they were not coming out of their homes to cast votes. “If promises are not fulfilled, then

we will leave the incumbent government like we did with PTI [Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf].

Regarding Sindh governor’s appointment, the MQM-P leader claimed that five names were given to the federal government including Kamran Tessori. “I was surprised after witnessing a quick decision to appoint Kamran Tessori Sindh governor.” MQM-P delegation, PM Meeting: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) delegation has met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and apprised him of party’s reservations.

The MQM-P delegation comprised Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Waseem Akhtar and Faisal Sabzwari, whereas, the meeting was also attended by federal ministers Rana Sanaullah, Khawaja Saad Rafique and

Ayaz Sadiq.

Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori apprised PM Shehbaz Sharif about MQM-P’s reservations on different issues including the delimitation in the province, said sources, adding that the political party gave its stance that elections could not be held without proper delimitation, otherwise, it would be ‘injustice’.

The MQM-P leaders complained about the non-implementation of Local Government (LG) Act amendments and Article 140A.

They said that Shehbaz Sharif, Fazlur Rehman and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) had acted as guarantors of the political agreement, hence, they should take a concrete decision. They also demanded PM Sharif inform MQM-P leadership at the earliest if PPP was not agreeing to implement the political agreement.

“Quality of research in universities is linked with the awareness of modern perspectives,” he said. The participants received certificates at the end of the workshop. Faculty member Jawad Asif, representing the participants, said that the workshop was very useful for achieving innovation and quality.

IHC stops work on Bhara Kahu Bypass to extent of QAU

ISLAMABAD staff report

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday stopped the work on the Bhara Kahu bypass only to the extent of Quaide- Azam University (QAU) till next date and served notices to the respondents in a plea filed by the QAU professors.

IHC’s Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, in his written order, directed said that the work should be stopped only on the land of the university till October 24.

The court also asked the QAU’s vice chancellor to tell whether the institution was given alternate land. It also sought the evaluation report of Environmental Protection Agency on the project. It questioned that whether the project was being executed without the approval of the agency.

At the outset of hearing, the petitioners’ lawyer Kashif Malik adopted the stance that the bypass was being constructed on the university’s land.

Justice Aurangzeb asked whether it was not a public project and whether it was being constructed on the university’s land after demolishing its building. In Saudi Arabia even mosques were razed to the ground for such projects, he added.

The lawyer said the project was in violation of the Federal Capital’s Master Plan. The road would pass through the university, he added.

The counsel for the Capital Development Authority (CDA) adopted the stance that the university had already given its land’s possession for the road, and the civic body would face irreparable loss if the work on the project was stopped. The CDA had also given alternate 250 kanals land to the university after acquiring 200 kanals, he added.

The lawyer said the university was a defaulter of Rs1 billion of the CDA. The project was approved by all the relevant forums.

The court noted that it seemed that the university was given comparatively more valuable land. How it could issue a stay order when the university’s building was not affected with the construction.

It said that then it would summon the vice chancellor as such a decision was taken by the administration instead of any individual.

The petitioners’ counsel said trees were being cut at the location of bypass which would also damage to the environment. The case was then adjourned.

Nathiagali Club in a shambles – thanks to ignorance by GDA

NATHIAGALI Mian abrar

Nathiagali Club, once a well decorated and looked after facility, has turned into a literal dumping ground – thanks to the ignorance by the Galliyat Development Authority (GDA).

The Nathiagali Club was established sometime in year 1911. For decades, it was looked after by the residents of the area through annual donations. In year 2017, the Governing Board was chaired by Lt Gen (R) Saeed Qadir.

Later in 2018, former Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr Azam Khan took over. The Club was catering to the needs of residents in an efficient manner and was

being maintained very well.

On July 20, 2019, a decision was taken in a meeting chaired by the then Prime Minister Imran Khan to take over the Club. On July 22, 2019 the Director-General, GDA called on Azam Khan and informed him of this decision. He also apprised him regarding the proposed development plans of govt for the Club.

Since then, three years elapsed and nothing has been done for improvement of the Club. On the contrary, the Club is in a bad shape. It has virtually become a dumping ground. It is rather unfortunate that the federal and provincial governments have taken away a well run institution depriving the residents of a facility and done nothing too abide by its decision to develop it.

RAWALPINDI staff report

No sportsmanship

Of security concerns, founded and unfounded

THE latest installment of indian intransigence is playing out in front of us, this time in the field of sports. india’s cricketing body, the BCCi, has said that the national team is not going to be visiting Pakistan for the ODi Asia Cup in 2023, an event that Pakistan will be hosting.

To be fair to the BCCi, this doesn’t appear to be their decision to make; in fact, the board’s secretary has explicitly stated that deciding where to allow the national team is the government’s call. We’re not calling quits, the BCCi claims - neutral venues aren’t unprecedented; arrange one, and we’ll play.

There are many issues to unpack here. First, the decision itself would have sprung no surprises. it was but expected. Hapless Pakistani cricket fans, the younger ones of whom have been reared in the wasteland of the aftermath of attack on the Sri Lankan team in 2009, quickly take any and all improvements in the state of cricket in the country as divorced from the situation in the rest of the world. Yes, we’ve had the curse broken by having tours of foreign teams like Zimbabwe and then England visiting. Then, we set up a rather exciting cricketing league in the country in the form of the PSL, which yielded a lot of good players, powering our triumph in the Champions’ Trophy and that, coupled with an improving security situation, has significantly improved the state of cricket and sports security in the country. But all that blinds us to the fact that other countries might have some valid security concerns. Cricket new Zealand’s decision to abandon their tour is an example of that, infuriating as it might have been for us.

Another thing that the improving state of cricket might have blinded us from is the fact that the government next door isn’t quite interested in the security situation in Pakistan to begin with. They are going to do what they are going to do for purposes of political signalling. After all, the decision not to allow Pakistani actors to perform in Bollywood films (though not directly by the government but by its thuggish supporters and their appeasers) can’t be predicated on security concerns. So the decision about cricket can be seen in that light either.

Three takeaways: the government needs to dig in its heels as far as ensuring the safety of visiting cricket teams is concerned, the PCB needs to make the cricketing infrastructure in the country better, and it is doing a decent job at that. And, lastly, the Pakistani cricket fans need to make peace with the fact that some teams won’t be visiting the country anytime soon, regardless of what the government does.

Arif Nizami (Late)

Yousaf Nizami Editor

Ahmad

Importance of mental health awareness

Awareness is not just for sufferers

WHEn we hear the word mental the first word that comes to our mind is psychology. Psychology is that branch of science that deals with the study of mind and behaviour. The field of psychology is far more vast than only dealing with behaviour. it also deals with mental health, disorders, its symptoms and its treatment and so on.

Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological and social well-being. it influences behaviour of a person, HiS development, cognitive ability and ability to perceive things from the environment. it affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood to adolescence, and from adulthood till death.

The importance of mental health is far more than it is considered in many countries, and also especially in the rural areas of this country where people do not have any correct knowledge about how the importance of mental health or why mental illness is alarming, and that not giving proper attention to it can lead to far more dangerous situations

Due to rigid and outdated customs of our society, going to a therapist or for mental health counselling is considered very unusual and shameful. However there is nothing bad in taking help from a resource that can take you out from a terrible situation.

The conversation about mental health awareness has never been prevalent or given as much importance as this issue requires. Often, because of misconceptions about mental health many of the cases go silent and untreated. Some highlighted reasons are the rigid customs of the majority of societies, fake superstitions.

going to a therapist is likely to be considered when the person is severely ill. When we talk about such matters the first thing that is very crucial is awareness among people about it. To raise awareness among people about mental health issues is important, especially in those areas of countries that are considered backward. After all building awareness is a critical ingredient in how to take care of mental health. it is important to know what mental health is and how spreading awareness about it will make an enormous difference for the people who don’t know about it and also for the people who are suffering from problems.

ignored as the dark part of the society. Mental health and Physical health are equally important components of our overall health. Mental health plays a major role in people’s ability to maintain good physical health. Different types of events should be arranged and everyone should participate in it so that more awareness would prevail among people about mental health.

it is our duty to keep an eye on the people in our surroundings, to have a check on the people we meet or work with on daily basis, if they are suffering from any kind of mental pressure, confusion or illness. We should always make them feel comfortable and try to help them as much as we can so the person knows that it is not immoral to have mental issues and that they are still worthy of respect and deserve care. Showing an individual respect and acceptance can remove significant barriers to successfully coping with their illness. However mental health is not just about having mental illness or disorders.

When an individual is suffering from any kind of mental pressure it is the duty of his or her family, friends and colleagues to have a check on each other and try to help him or her out without telling him or her that he or she needs help.

lives by committing suicide is the only solution they can think about. When those individuals are not given timely attention it leads to a highly disastrous situation and it becomes the end of someone’s precious life.

The suicide rate in all around the world has been massively exceeding day by day especially in Poland, ukraine, America, north Korea, russia, African countries and many others. in Seoul the Mapo Bridge has earned the nickname of Suicide Bridge because of how many people jump off it to commit suicide. When thecovid-19 pandemic started and every country went through lockdowns for several month, this also created a sense of depression and stress caused so many suicide attempts especially in Japan, China, England and America.

Mental health awareness is an important social movement to both improve understanding and access to a healthy mental and physical life. Islam is the first religion that has given mental health the importance it requires. The Holy Quran can be used a guide for those who are suffering from any kind of mental or emotional distress and aims to lead people to a quality and meaningful life. An important hadith of Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) is that “There is no disease that Allah has created, except that he also created its treatment.”

Aziz

October10, World Mental Health Awareness Day, provides a timely reminder about mental health as an essential for prosperous life and how those who are suffering from any kind of mental issues are deserving of care, help, understanding, healing, fulfilment and much more than just being

The environment around the individual has a great importance. That includes the atmosphere in homes, behaviours of others, places of study or work influence one’s mental health greatly. Sometimes people do not bother about the odd or antisocial behaviour of their friends, family or colleagues as unusual that are mostly referred to as initial signs of mental disorders. Lack of interaction, deviant behaviour, isolation, unfriendly acts or lack of an ultimate communication should never be ignored.

Mostly when people are suffering from an extreme stage of a mental disorder, they cannot think of any solution of their problems they feel overwhelmed, full of rage and despair and ending their

Everyone should talk more openly about the facts about the importance of mental health. it is an important initiative to improve understanding about mental conditions and increase access to healthcare for those who need it. Connecting with other people, friendly behaviour with everyone, being physically active, arranging events and seminars about mental health. Awareness, prevention early detection, targeted therapy is very important for ensuring effective treatment.

Mental health awareness is an important social movement to both improve understanding and access to a healthy mental and physical life. islam is the first religion that has given mental health the importance it requires The Holy Quran can be used a guide for those who are suffering from any kind if mental or emotional distress and aims to lead people to a quality and meaningful life. An important hadith of Hazrat Muhammad (PBuH) is that “There is no disease that Allah has created, except that he also created its treatment.”

The writer is a freelance columnist

No government has the right to pass such laws

called— were in place in order to control the captive Palestinian community in israel.

Dr JaMeS J. ZOGBy

During the past month israel has held 800 Palestinians under administrative detention orders, expelled several Palestinians from East Jerusalem, seized more Arab-owned land from areas around Hebron and in the Jordan Valley, turning much of it over to settlers, and instituted a lockdown of many Palestinian areas during Jewish religious days. All of this passed without notice in the uS press because israel policies, such as these, have long been routine features of the 55-year-long occupation.

What’s important to note, however, is that all of these practices are in violation of

international law, and all have a disturbing history in israel/Palestine.

Many of them were initially put in place by the British as part of their effort to squash the great Palestinian revolt of 1936-1939.

Back then, as Palestinian rebels at the peak of their uprising had gained control of significant areas of the country, the British put in place what they termed the “Emergency Military Administration in Palestine.” under the provisions of this new regime, thousands of Palestinian rebels were arrested and detained without charges, hundreds were expelled, villages were subjected to collective punishment, and Palestinian properties were confiscated and/or destroyed— all in an effort to end the revolt.

While these repressive measures did play a role, what finally ended the revolt was a combination of false promises by the British that they would consider Palestinian demands for independence and the naïveté of some Arab leaders who accepted these British pledges and, therefore, urged the Palestinian fighters to disarm.

After World War ii, when faced with a new threat from a Zionist armed insurgency, Britain reinstated the Emergency Administration— this time directed against the Jewish militias. in response, Jewish leaders rose up in outrage. One noted attorney, Ya’acov Shimshon Shapiro (who later served as israel’s Attorney general and Minister of Justice) criticized these British laws as “unparalleled in any civilized country.”

There were, he said, “no such laws even in

nazi germany…There is only one form of government which resembles the system in force here now— the case of an occupied country… it is our duty to tell the whole world that the Defense Laws passed by the British Mandatory government of Palestine destroy the very foundation of justice in this land.”

Palestinians are not “children of a lesser God.” They are human beings, deserving of the rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Geneva Conventions. Israel’s “security concerns” (like those of the British in the 1930s and 1940s) do not excuse its wholesale trashing of international law and conventions.

He concluded by noting that “no government has the right to pass such laws.” given this outrage and condemnation, it might be seen as ironic that immediately upon assuming state power in 1948, the State of israel would adopt these very same laws, applying them to the Palestinian population that remained after the nakbah— without any protest from Jewish jurists.

From 1948 until 1965 the Emergency Defense Laws (EDL)— as they were now

Collectively, these laws functioned to: establish a military administration over the Arab sector, give the state the power to institute collective punishment, intern Palestinian citizens of israel without judicial process, expel Palestinian citizens without recourse, confiscate Arabowned land, and impose curfews and lockdowns over entire regions.

While the EDL were formally lifted in 1965, they were resurrected and rehabilitated in 1967— this time to be applied, even more harshly, to the areas of Palestine that had been occupied in the 1967 War. Collective punishment of entire villages was widespread, as was the use of administrative detention. no political parties or expressions of Palestinian national identity were allowed. Well over 1,200 Palestinian leaders—mayors, college presidents, labor leaders, and

clergy— were expelled. Substantial areas of Arab-owned land were confiscated, placed under israeli control and declared either “green spaces” or “security zones”— off limits to Palestinians, later given over to israeli settlement construction. And since any Palestinian construction required israeli permission, which was rarely forthcoming, homes and community buildings were routinely demolished.

Even after the Oslo Accords, which Palestinians hoped would lead to an independent state, provisions of the EDL remained in place as accepted legal practice by the israeli occupation authorities. given that these israeli “laws” have been in place for more than seven decades, it might not be surprising that Western media and political leaders have become inured to these israeli repressive measures. This, however, only adds insult to injury.

Palestinians are not “children of a lesser god.” They are human beings, deserving of the rights guaranteed by the universal Declaration of Human rights and the geneva Conventions. israel’s “security concerns” (like those of the British in the 1930s and 1940s) do not excuse its wholesale trashing of international law and conventions. And they do not absolve the silence of the West in the face of this total disregard for Palestinian rights. To repeat the quote from israel’s first Attorney general, these laws “destroy the very foundation of justice in this land…no government has the right to pass such laws.”

The writer is President of the Arab American Institute

WaShiNGTON WaTCh

Maha Bilal

A

‘dangerous’ nuclear Pakistan?

statement, categorically stated that Dr Qadeer’s network was now out of business.

The existing watertight security and safety mechanisms of Pakistani nuclear labs are not susceptible to political ebbs and flows. The international institute of Strategic Studies has published a ‘research’ dossier titled ‘Nuclear Black Markets: Pakistan, A. Q. Khan and the Rise of Proliferation Networks’

The title of the dossier suggests that it is exclusively focused on Dr Qadeer. However, it throws light on bomb espionage activities of several other countries, including india. The dossier is accompanied with a prefatory statement by Dr Johan Chipman, Director general of the iiSS. This statement gives a fair opinion of Pakistan’s motivation to go nuclear.

in 1945) utilised refugees and other European scientists for the Manhattan Project and the subsequent development of its nascent nuclear arsenal. The Soviet union (which first tested an atomic bomb in 1949) acquired its technological foundations through espionage. The united Kingdom (1952) received a technological boost through its involvement in the Manhattan Project. France (1960) discovered the secret solvent for plutonium reprocessing by combing through opensource uS literature. China (1964) received extensive technical assistance from the uSSr’.

Editor’s mail

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan. E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Afghanistan crisis

AFTEr Taliban’s takeover, Afghanistan is suffering through numerous crises including poor health care system, brutally devastated educational system, lack of source of income for natives and people due to unavailability of proper clean and nutritious food are compelled starvation. Before Taliban’s invasion, Afghanistan’s 90% institutions and country organizations were supported by foreign aid, mainly America. The fundings allocated in regions of Afghanistan were synergetic in terms of disseminating income related consequences.

According to a report from World Food Organisation, only 2% of Afghan citizens have management for proper food resources and is estimated that, their ratio will decrease up to this coming winter.

Mainly, foreign aid and loans were blessings for poor suffering Afghan people but since decrement in foreign aid, public servants as teachers and clerks have not been paid for months. The main issue is now to find out a renewable and reliable source for money cave. People are forced to carry begging bowl to meet future circumstances. incumbent Afghan government can be accused for missing of foreign aid. Citizens have left their homes and arrived in the capital city Kabul, where, they stay with their relative or rent some cheaper rooms. Afghanistan crises is not a limited till its boundaries but it effects rest of humanity, number of victims is growing at rampant pace, rule of law has been transformed into law of jungle.

SAJID ALI NAICH KHAIRPUR

Daughters are blessings

WE live in a society where a female child is despised and the male child is liked. This partial attitude defines the psyche of ignorant people. The robust reason behind this practice is the lack of proper knowledge and the islamic dignity of girls. girls are angels and blessings for their parents. They help their parents in everything, extending from domestic chores to running agriculture. Furthermore, they help parents augment their progeny. Similarly, a girl is considered an unparalleled endowment from Allah.

Plus, it is often the case that a girl child enormously loves her parents more than a boy child. A boy child becomes easily irritable with parents if his request is not approved. However, a girl is more sympathetic to her parents.

aMJeD JaaveD

THE President of the uSA himself alleged that Pakistan may be “one of the most dangerous nations in the world” as the country has “nuclear weapons without any cohesion.” What bothers president Biden is the unsubstantiated fear that Pakistani nukes may fall into hands of islamic fundamentalists. A clue to Biden’s subconscious mind is given by Condoleezza rice, then Secretary of State-nominee for the junior Bush’s administration during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign relations Committee. She said that “the united States maintains a contingency plan to prevent Pakistani nuclear weapons from falling into the hands of islamist fundamentalists if they came to power”.

rice added that “she could not discuss this publicly although she was willing to brief members of the committee in a private session”.

The uSA believes that Pakistan’s nukes have no Permissive Action Links (PALS). So they may go off accidentally. Once a uS F16 was accidentally loaded with live nukes. These nukes fell on snow-capped mountains in Spain. But they did not detonate because of PALs, computerised ifthen-else conditions that restrict detonation.

After a lull of a few months, Pakistan’s nuclear programme, again and again, comes into negative limelight. The familiar pattern is that a credible-looking stimulus is boisterously responded to by indian and international media.

Previous examples of such stimuli are the dossier on Pakistan’s nuclear scientist Doctor AQ Khan, or the meeting between Osama bin Laden and nuclear scientist Sultan Bashiruddin Mahmood accompanied by Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission former engineer Abdul Majeed Chaudhry. The thrust of propaganda was that AlQaeda could steal radio-active material from Pakistan’s nuclear labs to make ’dirty bombs’, a euphemism for radiological-dispersal devices.

Pakistan itself is much worried about national cohesion.Pakistan’s national Security Policy (2022-26) identified ‘national Cohesion’ as an important pillar of the country’s security architecture. The Policy states ‘ ‘national Cohesion’ is an important prerequisite for an independent and prosperous country.’

Pakistan’s nuke-safety foolProof: The dossier (‘Nuclear Black Markets: Pakistan, A. Q. Khan and the Rise of Proliferation Networks’), in spite of its hostile tenor, expresses satisfaction over the steps taken by Pakistan to safeguard its nuclear assets. it views Dr Qadeer’s activities as the fault of an individual without connivance or cooperation of the Pak government. Even george Bush, has in a

Dr Chipman points out, ‘Pakistan’s motivation to acquire nuclear weapons was sparked in large part by competition with india. .. the major boost [to Pakistan’s weapons programme] came in December 1971 after Pakistan’s traumatic defeat by india. Embitterment over the loss of East Pakistan also provided a psychological motivation to Dr A.Q. Khan offers his services to his home country by stealing enrichment technology from his workplace in the netherlands. With that boost, it took Pakistan only ten years to reach the point where it could produce a nuclear weapon, despite the withdrawal of nuclear assistance from Western countries’.

The dossier admits ‘ Khan may have acted largely on his own volition, for his own profit’ (page 2). ‘Khan’s nuclear activities were largely unsupervised by Pakistani governmental authorities and his orders of many more components, than Pakistan’s own enrichment programme required, apparently went undetected’ (p. 66). ‘Most of Khan’s dealings were carried on his own initiative’ (Dg, iiSS, press statement dated May 2, 2007).

The dossier reflects well on Pakistan’s efforts to tighten its nuclear security and safety controls _ The dossier mentions ‘Many of Pakistan’s internal reforms since 2001, and then following Khan’s confession and confinement to house arrest in 2004, have been transparent and appear to have worked well. A robust commandand-control system is now in place to protect Pakistan’s nuclear assets from diversion, theft and accidental misuse. A.Q. Khan and his known cohorts are out of business’.

The dossier also notes that ‘A new defence policy was adopted in March 2004. This policy reportedly intended to “further strengthen institutionalization of control of strategic assets”, and “turn all policies and decisions from an invisible secrecy into solid documentary form following the recent proliferation scandal” (p. 36).

The dossier realises dangerous implications of the indo-uS 123 agreement for Pakistan: ‘Fears that the india-uS nuclear cooperation agreement will free up indian domestic uranium for additional weapons purposes gives Pakistan an additional motivation to continue to produce weapons-grade fissile material of its own. Pakistan has resisted any nonproliferation regimes that it believes would give a ‘perpetual edge’ to india. This is one reason Pakistan has been the country most resistant to negotiating a fissile material cut-off treaty’.

The dossier observes ‘Pakistan was not the only country to evade nuclear export controls to further a covert nuclear weapons programme.’

‘Almost all of the countries that have pursued nuclear weapons programmes obtained at least some of the necessary technologies, tools and materials from suppliers in other countries. Even the united States (which detonated the first nuclear weapon

From the dossier, one gets to know that Asher, an israeli businessman, and Alfred Hempel, an exnazi who died in 1989, are co-fathers of india’s ‘indigenous’ bombs. Hempel, a german nuclear entrepreneur, helped india overcome difficulties of heavy-water shortage by organising illicit delivery of a consignment of over 250 tonnes of heavy water to india’s Madras-i reactor, via China, norway and the uSSr. The duo also arranged transfers to india of sensitive nuclear components.

One unmistakable conclusion from the dossier is that Pakistan’s motivation to go nuclear was well founded. in view of restrictions on nuclear exports, Pakistan did what other countries did to make its bomb.

it was this dispute that triggered the past wars in 1948, 1965, 1971 and 1999, besides a quasiwar or the military standoff in the years 20012002. This dispute needs to be resolved. india wants the issue to remain on the backburner, but Pakistan wants its early resolution. John Thomson, in his article ‘Kashmir: the most dangerous place in the world’ has analysed whether it is a myth or reality to perceive Kashmir as the most dangerous place in the world (Waheguru Pal Singh Sidhu, Bushra Asif and Cyrus Samii (eds), Kashmir: New Voices, New Approaches).

He has given cogent arguments to prove that the Kashmir issue could once again spark another indo-Pak military confrontation with concomitant risks of a nuclear war.

Most western analysts, also, do not rule out the possibility of a nuclear war because of the Kashmir dispute. Carnegie Endowment for international Peace has, inter alia, pointed out that ‘avoiding nuclear war in South Asia will require political breakthroughs in india-Pakistan’.

Aware that Kashmir was a ticking bomb which could mushroom into another war with india, former president Musharraf made some outof-box personal proposals to resolve the dispute.

For one thing, the assessments about destructiveness of a radiological bomb are exaggerated. interestingly, even The Time Pentagon correspondent, Mark Thompson, in his article What is a dirty bomb? asserts that a radiological bomb could spell awe without much destruction.

The undeniable reality is that no terrorist outfit has ever been able to develop or detonate a radiological device. History of terrorism reflects that “terrorists” are not interested in rDD. Why should terrorists go for nuclear terrorism when an effective bio-terrorism facility in a basement or a kitchen could be built for $200,000 to $2 million? regarding use of biological weapons by “terrorists”, Professor ramesh Chandra points out in his Global Terrorism , “Although popular fiction and national attention have focused on terrorist use of nuclear weapons, chemical and biological weapons are more likely choices for such groups’”.

it is unfortunate that india remains a protégé and Pakistan a bête noire in State Department’s perceptions.

The writer is a freelance journalist, has served in the Pakistan government for 39 years and holds degrees in economics, business administration, and law. He can be reached at amjedjaaved@gmail.com

Killing a newborn baby is not a sole murder, but a butchery of humanity. We live in a society where this incident takes place more frequently. The recent occurrence clearly shows the cruel nature of a man against her a girl child. in the province of Punjab, a father killed her sevenyear newly born babies. Such inhumane occasions are swelling each passing day due to utter ignorance. Proper steps should be taken to check them otherwise upcoming situation will serious be worsened. resultantly, An serene world will be converted into hell. it is our responsibility of us, but most importantly, feminists should take special attention to the matter.

MUHAMMAD AFZAL SHAIKH GAMBAT

Fragile economy and solutions

An economic problem generally means the problem of making a choice that occurs because of the scarcity of resources. it arises because people have unlimited desires but the means to satisfy that desire are limited at a greater level. Therefore, satisfying all human needs seems nearly impossible with limited resources. Pakistan is one of those developing countries that is facing economic problems which are delaying the success and the growth of the country.

There are consequently many economic problems in Pakistan which are getting hostile and overwhelming day by day and if they remain unattended then the conditions might even may be propelled towards the worst situation. Through Durandline Pakistan is connected with Afghanistan geographically and was an ally of America in the war on terror, therefore facing great threats and terrorism. A huge part of the budget is spent on this war. War against terrorism is a very important reason behind the economic problem. Another major issue of our country includes a poor academic set-up, the Energy crisis is also a critical economic problem that has affected the growth of the state unfavourably, the load shedding of electricity, petroleum, Cng and natural gas has produced various problems. resultantly, the mediocre stakeholders have left the country in the lurch. unemployment is a nightmare for the youth who share a major percentage of the population and are said to be the backbone of any nation. Despite having natural resources in the form of land, manpower, water, oil and minerals, we are still at the starting point. Bad governance is still a major issue within the state. Our leaders have bank accounts in foreign countries. They have invested in other countries. This is the kind of insincerity towards the nation. The basic problems of an economy can be solved either by the decisions of the government or by the market through interactions of buyers and sellers. There is a need for good leaders to develop the best infrastructure and system for the people.

KOMAL SAMO KARACHI

Salute to nurses

nurSing is a noble profession which requires strong commitment, sense of immolation, for humanity and a great deal of tolerance. A nurse is a person whose job is to care the sick and injured people in a hospital. it is observed that both male and female work as professional nurses but females are in the majority. The profession is more suitability for females since they are more sensitive, caring and tolerance. nursing is an old sacred profession. its history is as ancient as that human civilization. The role of a nurse has always been prominent, sometimes as a great nurse”Florence nightingale” who was known as a lady with the lamp and sometimes as Mother Teresa who devoted her whole life in this holy profession and got the nobel Prize for her services. Today a nurse gets proper education and taining before entering into this profession. During her training, she has taught how to give medicines and food to patients; how to know about their problems and how to serve them in the best possible ways. She has to be very punctual and active in her work. A nurse is a link between a doctor and a patient. She tells the condition of the patients to doctors and take adivces from them and serve medicines to patients. in this manner, her role becomes central in hospital.

FATIMA FAZAL TURBAT

Biden’s statement raised a bogey long ago disproven

ThE worLd conTinuEs To ignorE ThE radicaLizaTion of india

WASHingTon PoST rana ayyuB

LAST WEEk, India’s Supreme Court took on an issue that has turned into a major political controversy: the hijab. In February, the southern state of karnataka had banned women from wearing the hijab in classrooms — enraging Indian Muslims and delighting Hindu nationalists, who saw the state’s move as another triumph in their continuing campaign against Muslims in India.

The court’s decision ended up showing just how polarized India’s religious landscape has become. One of the judges on the panel declared wearing headscarves a matter of personal choice; the other essentially dismissed the problem, saying that the hijab was not “essential” to Islam.

But India’s Muslims can’t simply act as if the issue doesn’t exist. Muslim girls in India are fighting — just like their counterparts in Iran — for their fundamental right to dress and live on their own terms. Many Muslim girls were barred from entering school premises or sitting for exams when they insisted on wearing the hijab,

which they believe is a fundamental right. These women believe that the general attack on the hijab is merely a pretext — part of the wider assault on every aspect of the Muslim identity.

That such an assault is well underway can no longer be denied, even if some people in the international community persist in ignoring it. On the streets of India today, Hindu nationalists have been seen brandishing swords and chanting provocative slogans outside mosques. Videos shared on social media of mob attacks on Muslims are far too common. And Muslim students and activists have seen their houses demolished by state officials without due process, clearly as retribution for speaking up against atrocities. The news organization Scroll recently reported that many Muslims are leaving India due to “rising majoritarianism.”

Just this month, India has witnessed a spate of incidents involving targeted attacks on the Muslim community.

In the first week of October, a mob barged into a heritage mosque in the city of Bidar, performed a Hindu ceremony and chanted the slogan “Jai Shri Ram” (Glory to Lord Rama). Then a disturbing video went viral showing several Muslim men being tied to a lamppost in Gujarat, after they were accused of trespassing and disturbing a Hindu festival. As the men were flogged, allegedly by police officers in civilian clothes, the crowds chanted nationalist slogans and danced. A similar incident took place last month, when people associated with an ultra-right-

Europe’s surging far right

THE WEEK STAFF

Far-right parties in Sweden and Italy just had electoral breakthroughs. Why? Here’s everything you need to know:

WHERE IS THE FAR RIGHT GROWING? In the last month, far-right parties in Sweden and Italy shocked the world with their electoral successes. The Brothers of Italy, a descendant of Mussolini’s fascist regime, garnered 26 percent of votes to place first in the Italian election — up from 4 percent in 2018. Led by Giorgia Meloni, who has spoken of “LGBT lobbies” and claimed American billionaire George Soros finances “mass immigration,” the party uses a fascist slogan and a logo that was created for neofascists in the 1940s. Meanwhile, in Sweden — a country known for tolerance and a robust social safety net — the far-right Sweden Democrats placed second in September elections with 20 percent. The party has roots in a neo-Nazi movement and campaigned on cracking down on soaring violent crime. Far-right parties are also ascendant in France, Germany, Belgium, and Spain. France’s farright National Rally placed second in this year’s presidential election, claiming more than 40 percent of votes in its best showing ever.

WHY ARE THESE PARTIES MORE POPULAR?

In recent years, a major influx of immigrants from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa has unsettled many Europeans. Islamist terrorist attacks on European soil had already created fear and suspicion of Muslim immigrants, which deepened when impoverished immigrant communities on the outskirts or suburbs of big cities gave rise to violent drug gangs and crime. After taking in 150,000 refugees starting in 2015, Sweden has gone from having one of the lowest per capita rates of deadly shootings in Europe to the highest; just before its recent election, a mother and child were killed by stray bullets during a gang fight at a playground, causing a national furor. “It’s getting worse and worse in terms of violent crimes,” said Torsten Elofsson, a former police chief who became a candidate for the center-right Christian Democrats. “It worries people.” France and Italy also have seen increases in poverty and crime in immigrant communities.

ARE THERE OTHER CAUSES? Yes. Economic insecurity is rising across the Continent, creating a sense of scarcity and competition for resources. And as Europe becomes more multicultural and power moves from national capitals to the European Union, some people also feel a loss of national identity. It has all combined to lead a growing number of people to embrace nationalist populism and parties that were once stigmatized as extremist and racist. “If your house is burning,” said Elofsson, “you call the fire brigade, you don’t think about how it started.”

WHAT DO THESE PARTIES STAND FOR? Farright parties throughout the Continent are united in their support for “law and order,” populism, and nativism. Most have a strong authoritarian flavor. In policy terms, the radical right wants to strictly limit immigration, prioritize native-born citizens over newcomers, and rein in the power of educated “elites.” Some of these parties have been around for decades — France’s National Rally

celebrated its 50th anniversary this year — but they were long considered fringe actors with no chance of gaining mainstream support.

WHO SUPPORTS THEM NOW? Far-right voters were once largely male, uneducated, old, and rural. But in recent years, a much wider swath of the population has joined them, including young people. In Sweden, home to climate activist Greta Thunberg, more than 20 percent of 18- to 21-year-olds voted for the Sweden Democrats, even though the party downplays climate change. With many far-right parties promoting traditional gender roles, men continue to outnumber women in their ranks. But now female leaders such as Meloni, the National Rally’s Marine Le Pen, and Alternative for Germany’s Alice Weidel are encouraging women to reject the rapid pace of demographic and cultural change. “There is evidence the gender gap is shrinking in some countries,” said Eelco Harteveld, who researches populism at the University of Amsterdam.

HOW DO FAR-RIGHT PARTIES GOVERN? When they win elections, they often seek to entrench their control with anti-democratic measures. Since Viktor Orban, leader of the far-right Fidesz party, was elected prime minister of Hungary in 2010, he has gained control of the courts, censored and taken control of the media, and virtually neutered the opposition. His success has made him an icon to far-right leaders around the globe — including in the U.S., where he has been celebrated at CPAC and on Fox News. Last month, the European Parliament passed a resolution saying that Hungary “can no longer be considered a full democracy,” calling Orban’s government a “hybrid regime of electoral autocracy.” Poland is next in line for this transformation. Its far-right prime minister, Mateusz Morawiecki from the Law and Justice party, called Meloni’s win in Italy a “great -victory.” France’s far-right leader Le Pen, meanwhile, rejoiced over the Sweden Democrats’ success, saying: “Everywhere in Europe, people aspire to take their destiny back into their own hands!”

HANDS ACROSS THE ATLANTIC: The far right movements in Europe and the U.S. have mutual admiration for one another and are actively seeking to cultivate a global far right. Though they operate within distinct political contexts in their own nations, these parties broadly share a traditionalist worldview and the goals of supporting nationalism and Christian religious values and curbing immigration. Far-right leaders travel to make appearances with like-minded politicians in other countries. This year, both Orban and Meloni spoke at CPAC events, where the who’s who of the American right gathers. Four years ago, former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, who’s currently facing charges of conspiracy and money laundering, founded a Brusselsbased organization called the Movement. He aimed to unite far-right leaders across the EU and help them win seats in the European Parliament. Bannon has championed Meloni, predicting in 2018 that her party would “become quite mainstream over time.” At a CPAC event in August, Orban was warmly received just weeks after he warned that immigration, “mixed race” marriages, and secular liberals were ruining Europe. “We must coordinate a movement of our troops because we face the same challenge,” he told the CPAC audience. The U.S. and Europe, he said, are “the two fronts in the battle being fought for Western civilization.”

wing group called the Bajrang Dal reportedly assaulted Muslim boys for participating in the Hindu festival of Navratri, accusing them of enticing Hindu girls.

Extremists clearly feel empowered, and it is not hard to guess why. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at the peak of his power. His crackdown on independent media and his Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) increasing dominance across all of India’s institutions are limiting society’s capacity to push back against such radicalism.

Members of his party, meanwhile, have added fuel to the fire: A sitting BJP member of Parliament, Pragya Thakur, recently stated that Muslims should not be allowed in Hindu festivals. Thakur is on trial for allegedly taking part in a bombing that killed six people near a mosque; she was elected while out on bail, after spending eight years in jail. Another BJP lawmaker appeared to call for a “total boycott” of Muslim businesses recently, with crowds cheering and clapping in response.

Modi, who has one of the biggest followings on social media of any Indian, has not called for inclusion or for an end to the violence against Muslims. Nor has he publicly reprimanded his lawmakers for speech that has further encouraged communal hate in India.

At the same time, the outside world doesn’t seem willing to stand up for India’s Muslims and other minorities. World leaders apparently prioritize maintaining strategic relations with India to counter China and Russia, not understanding that this willful and convenient

ignorance is amplifying state-sanctioned violence against the 220 million Muslims in India.

Britain has recently offered a glaring example of the long reach of sectarian hatred allegedly emanating from India. Last month, the city of Leicester experienced an outpouring of communal violence between Hindu and Muslim communities. A BBC investigation has shown that the disinformation that led to the violence was inflamed by social media accounts from India. These fault lines are also present in the United States: An Indian independence day celebration in New Jersey in August controversially featured a piece of construction equipment similar to bulldozers used in India to demolish Muslim homes.

It was another reminder that the hate and division growing in India will not stop at its borders. A statement by Human Rights Watch released this month warned of a surge in crimes against Muslims in India. Yet the Modi government has mocked all criticism by human rights groups and international media as attempts to discredit his government.

As the world remains silent in the face of increasing injustice in India, I am reminded of an old Egyptian proverb: “Oh Pharaoh, who turned you into a tyrant?” “No one stopped me,” he replied.

Rana Ayyub is an Indian journalist and author of “Gujarat Files: Anatomy of a Cover Up.”

Josep Borrell as Europe’s racist ‘gardener’

All his humbug about gardeners reminded me of The Constant Gardener, a John le Carre book and movie inspired by real-life events about a pharmaceutical firm that tested a new drug on poor locals in Africa, killing or maiming many of them. In real life, European engagement with Africa and the world has gone far beyond pharmaceutical testing to a whole plethora of pillages from colonialism, slavery and genocide to shadow wars and the theft of natural resources.

Al JAzEErA Marwan Bishara

LISTENING to Europe’s senior most diplomat Josep Borrell at the inauguration of the new European Diplomatic Academy in Bruges, Belgium, last Thursday, I could only shake my head in wonder and outrage, as he compared Europe to a garden and the world to a jungle –a beastly and scary jungle.

As far as bad speeches go, his rant wouldn’t have merited much commentary if it weren’t for its undiplomatic insensitivity and racism. It was short on wisdom and long on clichés and contradictions. It was badly structured and poorly delivered.

And yet, for a high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy, this was a new low. Just when one thought European politics couldn’t get any worse, Borrell spoke his “truth”. In his paternalistic smugness, he effectively poisoned the young minds of Europe’s future diplomats with utter vainness, conceit and supremacism.

But first, the casual sexism. He started by complimenting “Federica” – his predecessor and the academy’s director Federica Mogherini – for her youthful looks with the gallantry of a Catalan bull. No pun intended of course, since the Catalans prefer donkeys to bulls.

In Trumpian fashion, the diplomat then swiftly gauged the world as if it were a red rag that must be confronted head-on, asking the young souls in his audience to beware of the imminent dangers facing Europe from all sides. He pontificated that “Europe is a garden” but “most of the rest of the world is a jungle, and the jungle could invade the garden”.

The little garden, he educated them, cannot defend itself by building a wall. Why? “Because the jungle has a strong growth capacity, and the wall will never be high enough in order to protect the garden.”

So, what’s the solution? Then came the punch line: “The gardeners have to go to the jungle. Europeans have to be much more engaged with the rest of the world. Otherwise, the rest of the world will invade us, by different ways and means.” I could go on and on, citing more from this childish and utterly dreadful metaphor, but I suppose you get the picture. The bottom line: Wonderful prosperous and free Europe is an exception in our otherwise vicious world, and it won’t survive for long unless its “gardeners” go out there to the jungle and help civilise the world.

But European memories can be at times short and selective – even when it comes to their own history. If indeed Europe is a garden, it is one that’s been tilled over a continent-wide cemetery. Lest Borrell forgot about the centuries of religious, nationalist and imperial wars, including the two world wars and many civil wars – like the Spanish civil war and its bloody 36year dictatorship that only ended in 1975 and that the Catalan diplomat should be particularly familiar with.

That’s not to say there isn’t much to celebrate. Europe has done very well since the second world war in terms of unity, security and prosperity, but only after defeating racism and fascism. But the rise and spread of neo-fascist and far-right politics throughout the continent, and its electoral victories in important countries like Italy, are reasons for caution, not conceit. But then again, if the racist tone of Borrell – supposedly a socialist – is anything to go by, what difference does it make whether Europe is led by the Left or the Right?

Tomato, tomahto. Borrell was also wrong when he claimed, in the same speech, that Europe has become stronger and more independent of the United States since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Rather the contrary. A weaker, colder, more vulnerable EU has become more subservient to Washington.

Yet the smug diplomat sounded particularly delusional about the implications of the war as it grinds on. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of a greater war and at the same time expressed readiness for diplomacy, Borrell chose to dismiss any diplomatic solution for the time being. Instead, he threatened that the Russian army would be “annihilated” if Moscow were to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, without any thought as to what that may mean to the survival of Europe.

Like his racist rant, this reckless escalation was utterly inappropriate language for Europe’s top diplomat to use while speaking to those aspiring to join his profession, or to anyone else for that matter.

And to end his inspirational, motivational big talk with a final wisdom, Borrell told the prospective envoys to raise their heads high and be good gardeners not only of Europe but of the “jungle”, wishing them happy diplomatic safaris. All joking aside, Borrell’s racist discourse is terribly dangerous in the current state of international affairs. It must be condemned in Europe first and foremost. Europe deserves better representatives. The world deserves better from Europe. We all harvest what we sow.

Marwan Bishara is an author who writes extensively on global politics and is widely regarded as a leading authority on US foreign policy, the Middle East and international strategic affairs. He was previously a professor of International Relations at the American University of Paris.

THE OUTSIDE WORLD DOESN’T SEEM WILLING TO STAND UP FOR INDIA’S MUSLIMS AND OTHER MINORITIES. WORLD LEADERS APPARENTLY PRIORITIZE MAINTAINING STRATEGIC RELATIONS WITH INDIA TO COUNTER CHINA AND RUSSIA, NOT UNDERSTANDING THAT THIS WILLFUL AND CONVENIENT IGNORANCE IS AMPLIFYING STATE-SANCTIONED VIOLENCE AGAINST THE 220 MILLION MUSLIMS IN INDIA

corporate corner

‘fly Jinnah’ releases painting video of its fleet

karachi: Fly Jinnah, Pakistan’s new low-cost carrier (LCC), releases a timelapse video of the livery painting of its fleet. The video shows the full process of painting the aircraft from start to finish.

The current full fleet of Fly Jinnah which is comprised of three Airbus A320 aircraft have received Fly Jinnah has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Air Operating License (AOL) Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), and the airline will start its operations from Karachi International Airport soon.

Lakson Group and Air Arabia Group announced their decision to form a JV airline in Pakistan in September 2021.

‘Fly Jinnah’ will follow Air Arabia’s successful low-cost business model and provide its customer base with a reliable operation and value-driven product. pr

Meezan Bank introduces Wisaaq in collaboration with coca-cola Beverages

karachi: Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s Leading Islamic Bank and Coca-Cola Beverages Pakistan Limited (CCI Pakistan) have joined hands to launch a digital supply chain financing platform in partnership with Haball, an Islamic B2B Fintech that digitizes business payments to enable a cashless and digital supply chain. Coca-Cola Beverages Pakistan Limited is a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Içecek (CCI) which is currently operating in 11 countries across the globe. The event was attended by Dr. Inayat Hussain - Deputy Governor, State Bank of Pakistan, Mr. Irfan Siddiqui – Founding President & CEO, Meezan Bank, Mr. Erdi Kursunoglu - Director Finance, CCI Pakistan and Mr. Omer Bin Ahsan - CEO, Haball along with their respective teams.

As a first in the industry, CCI Pakistan will unveil Wisaaq’s Digital Financing Platform for their distributors across Pakistan who shall be able to avail Shariah-compliant financing through Meezan Bank. The facility will enable CCI Pakistan distributors to improve their working capital while expanding their operations. By entering into this venture, Meezan Bank aims to support SMEs in Pakistan, ensuring financial efficiency and stability of the supply chain, eventually fueling growth of the economy. The Bank’s collaboration with CCI Pakistan will also allow exchange of expertise and networks from two different industries, that will create sustainable business opportunities for retailers. pr

IMc celebrates 5th Batch of future Leaders under Toyota Goth education Program

Honda unveILS daTe foR HR-v’S LauncH

LAHORE

Daniyal ahmaD

HONDAAtlas Cars Pakistan (HACPL) has finally unveiled the release date of their upcoming HR-V across their social media accounts. The company has touted October 21, 2022 as the launch date for the vehicle. “Yes, In sha’Allah” said Amir Nazir, General Manager Sales and Marketing at HACPL, when asked by Profit if the HR-V would be released on the touted date.

The HR-V is set to be released in a total of three iterations. It will have two completely-knocked-down (CKD) editions and a completely-built-up (CBU) unit. The two CKD editions will be known as the VTi and VTi S, both of which will come with conventional combustion engines. The CBU edition will be the hybrid variant of the vehicle, and is expected to be made available for purchase at a later date than its aforementioned combustion engine siblings.

HACPLs two pronged approach is likely a result of their inability to manufacture hybrid engines enmasse to cater to demand at a time when the industry’s supply chains are constrained by the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) administrative oversight on CKD kits, and the volatile nature of the PKR. Furthermore, the decision to directly import a CBU edition of the vehicle rather than commit to creating a CKD variant is likely because of the higher cost of manufacturing a hybrid variant relative to a traditional combustion

engine vehicle.

HACPL would have benefited from the reduced import duties on the import of parts for hybrid vehicles outlined in the Auto Industry Development and Export Policy (AIDEP) 2021-26. However, the cost savings are debatable given that hybrids are generally more expensive in terms of their upfront costs. Committing large sums of investment towards a more expensive variant might have been a decision bound to work against HACPL given the contractions in sales figures across the industry. Importing the CBU variant enables HACPL to work on localization piecemeal and develop their supply chain network to eventually localize the new hybrid engines. As a non plug-in hybrid vehicle, the duties that the HR-V would be subject to are as follows:

The direct competitor to the HR-V will likely be the assortment of crossover sports utility vehicles (CUV) present across the Pakistani automotive space with almost every brand now having their own offering in the space. The lack of a price reveal in advance limits the direct comparisons that can be made with the HR-V. However, the most common comparisons to be made are likely to be the KIA Sportage, the Oshan X7, and possibly the Hyundai Tucson and the Haval H6.

The Sportage is undoubtedly the leader of the pack in the CUV market with its sheer sales volume. Its recent discount across all of its iterations is likely to make it a more competitive purchase for consumers who may either not have the finances to buy

Rain, snowfall forecast for upper KP from today

PESHAWAR staff report

The Met Office on Tuesday forecast rain with snowfall in upper areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from October 19 to 21 and rains with dust storm in plains areas during the period.

Regional Met Office Peshawar said that snowfall with rain was likely to occur over Chitral, Kalam, Shangla, Kohistan and Kaghan while rain with thundershower and hailstorm and gusty winds is likely to occur in Bunner, Malakand, Swat, Dir, Timergara, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, Swabi, Mardan, Peshawar, Charsadda, Kohat, Khyber,

Orakzai, Bajaur, Mohmand, Nowshera, Risalpur and Chera.

Similarly, dust storm with gusty winds is expected in Tank, North and South Waziristan, Lakki Marwat, Karak, Hangu, Bannu and DI Khan.

It said that snowfall in upper areas of the province could block roads besides bringing down the mercury level below freezing at some upper parts of the province.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority directed all the district governments to ensure availability of all emergency services staff, machineries and other resources to remain vigilant and restore road links in case of any land sliding of road blockage.

France allocates €1m for humanitarian relief operations in Pakistan

Indus Motor Company Limited (IMC), proudly welcomed the 5th batch of its flagship, Toyota Goth Education Program (TGEP) matriculates, at a small ceremony held at its headquarters in Karachi. In attendance were IMCs CEO and senior executives and Mr Rehan Usman, General Manager, The Citizens Foundation.

Of the total 37 students - 24 girls and 13 boys – 89% or 33 students produced A1 and A grades whilst the remaining passed with B grade. Moreover, this year saw a much higher female representation within the batches. The company’s CEO, Mr. Ali Asghar Jamali met with the students and school Principals and presented them with a Certificate of Appreciation for their outstanding academic achievement. pr

Peek freans Sooper celebrates Pakistanis and their love for cricketers

karachi: With the ICC T20 World Cup just around the corner, Peek Freans Sooper has launched a campaign to celebrate the nation’s invaluable connection with the cricketing heroes of the Pakistan cricket team. The celebrations convey the idea of how simple moments of interactions with our cricketers can turn into life-long memories for the fans of the sport. Through its platform, Peek Freans Sooper aims to foster the tradition of honoring the cricket stars of Pakistan and their commitment, dedication, and hard work to achieve international success. The campaign features Pakistanis and their ‘seedhi saadi khushi’ in savored moments through which they feel connected to the cricketers of Pakistan. The overarching message of this campaign points out the ability to find genuine happiness in seemingly insignificant events which may become precious to us in the future.

Executive Director of EBM, Shahzain Munir said "The purpose of connecting Sooper's seedhi saadi khushi to the nation’s love and enthusiasm for cricket is not only to celebrate the love of cricket but also to honor the journey of our national heroes and, above all, to let them know their importance to every Pakistani fan. Cricket, as a sport, holds a special place in the hearts of all Pakistani’s and this campaign demonstrates just that. We wish our cricket team the very best for this tournament and hope that they come back with the cup." pr

French Ambassador in Pakistan Nicolas Galey announced the French government had allocated €1 million to three Nongovernmental International Organizations for humanitarian relief operations for flood-hit communities in Pakistan.

These relief activities will provide critical assistance to vulnerable households, and contribute to reducing loss of lives and improving living conditions in flood-affected communities, said Ambassador talking to the media persons at his residence.

He added that this contribution was part of France’s substantial support to the Pakistani people in the aftermath of the catastrophic floods.

President Macron personally decided on this support at the end of August to express and demonstrate France’s solidarity with the victims of this unprecedented event, the ambassador told.

He said France’s financial assistance had been earmarked for the following relief operations: Action Against Hunger (ACF), an integrated project combining health, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), agriculture, food security, and livelihood for approximately 30 000 beneficiaries in the districts of Kambar Shadadkot and Khairpur in Sindh.

To question, French Ambassador said, “French international nongovernmental organizations, together with their Pakistani partners, play an essential role in providing humanitarian assistance to

flood-affected communities.

The French government is pleased to support Action Against Hunger, Secours Islamique – France, and Médecins du Monde in their relief operations.

This financial support builds on other support provided by France, including the mission in September of a French medical team, the distribution of high-capacity water pumps, the provision of emergency equipment (tents, kitchen sets…), the current French civil security-led water purification operation in Dadu district, and the procurement of a portable bridge in the coming weeks”.

In addition to sending non-food items and equipment, including 200 tents and 83 very highcapacity water pumps, France has dispatched civil security teams to the field, including:

A team of experts trained more than 50 technicians in Karachi in using 83 high-capacity water pumps given to Pakistan and are now operated by Pakistani experts in various parts of the affected areas, he added.

He said that a team of 40 experts from the French Civil Security Units is now deployed onsite in the Sindh Province to install and operate a water purification system, which will provide the population with two hundred and fifty litres of drinking water per day.

The ambassador also added that the French Government had allocated an additional 1 million euros to the World Food Programme for an integrated Nutrition-Safety Net Project for pregnant and lactating women in Sindh.

the HR-V in this market or may be distrustful of HACPL’s initial foray in the market. Given that the HR-V will be in line with its international siblings in terms of vehicular generation, the X7 is likely to be its direct competitor. With the X7 having waiting queues upwards of two months and on-payments upwards of Rs1 million, this will likely be the competitor that the HR-V takes on.

The Hyundai Tucson and Haval H6 are notable mentions. The former on its availability in the market relative to all other CUVs and the latter in regards to being the same vehicular generation as the HR-V.

The launch of the HR-V will now give HACPL an entirely new market to expand their reach in with the CUV market having grown from 5 per cent to 20 per cent over the past three years and touted to increase from 20 per cent to 37 per cent by 2030 according to Shabbir Uddin, Director Sales and Marketing at Master Changan Motors.

However, the more pungent question that is raised is if a hybrid vehicle can be feasibly manufactured in Pakistan to begin with. HACPL’s decision to opt for a CBU indicates that such a task is herculean even for a company of their stature. This question then directly puts into question the fate of Toyota Indus Motor Company’s Corolla Cross and the hybrid variant of Haval’s H6 that are to be launched next year and later this year respectively. The Cross, as of right now, will only be a hybrid vehicle which puts it in a far more precarious position as to what its future holds.

MMBL partners with TPS to boost business agility, digital readiness

Islamabad: Pakistan’s largest digital bank, Mobilink Microfinance Bank Limited (MMBL) has signed a strategic partnership with renowned global banking solution provider, TPS for the induction of its groundbreaking and all-encompassing digital banking suite to boost business agility and digital readiness. Through this partnership, MMBL is dedicated to transforming its digital payments infrastructure while increasing its efforts toward bringing the unbanked and underbanked into the fold of financial inclusion. pr

Strengthening employment prospects for retuning migrants

Islamabad: For smooth integration and economic empowerment of returning migrants, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) organized a ceremony where returning migrants were presented toolkits in the trades of electrician, plumber, carpenter, motor cycle mechanic and mason as an In-Kind support to help them start sustained self-employment. The activity is part of OPF efforts to support returning migrants to make a new start in Pakistan and achieve a sustainable employment. pr

Int’l seminar on ‘Global Strategic Threat & Response’ today

Islamabad: The Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS) is holding its two-day flagship International Seminar titled ‘Global Strategic Threat and Response (GSTAR)’ from 19-20 October, 2022 under the core theme ‘Evolving Global Order: Challenges and Opportunities' at Air Headquarters, Islamabad. The biennial GSTAR is a unique international forum, initiated by CASS to review the most significant global strategic trends and challenges. pr

ISLAMABAD staff report

UkrAinE wArns sitUAtion ‘CritiCAl’ AftEr rUssiA AttACks PowEr grid

UKRAINEwarned on Tuesday of an emerging “critical” risk to its power grid after President Volodymyr Zelensky said that repeated Russian bombardments had destroyed one-third of the country’s power facilities as winter approaches.

That warning came as Russian forces claimed to have retaken territory from Ukrainian troops in the eastern Kharkiv region, Moscow’s first announced capture of a village there since being nearly entirely pushed out of the region last month.

At the same time, Russian attacks rocked energy facilities in Kyiv and urban centres across the country, causing blackouts and disrupting water supplies, just one day after the capital was bombarded with a swarm of suicide drones.

“The situation is critical now across the country because our regions are dependent on one another … it’s necessary for the whole country to prepare for electricity, water and heating outages,” Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of the Ukrainian president’s office, told Ukrainian television.

The strikes in the early hours of Tuesday hit Kyiv, Kharkiv in the east, Mykolaiv in the south and central regions of Dnipro and Zhytomyr, where officials said hospitals were running on backup generators.

Drones also bombarded Kyiv on Monday leaving five dead, officials said, in what the presidency described as an attack of desperation.

It was the second Monday in a row

UAE rejects Borrell’s ‘racist’ remarks; demands written apology

ABU DHABI Agencies

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) rejected European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell’s ‘racist’ statement on Monday, terming it “inappropriate and discriminatory.”

In a statement issued by the UAE Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC), Borrell’s remarks were characterized as ‘racist’, while it was also highlighted that comments like these ‘worsen the climate of intolerance and discrimination’.

The ministry summoned the acting head of the mission at the EU delegation to the UAE for an explanation and also demanded a written apology from Borrell over his ‘hurtful’ remarks.

“Borrell’s remarks are a disappointing development that comes at a time when all parties are aware of the importance of respect for other religions, cultures, and ethnic groups, as well as values such as pluralism, coexistence, and tolerance,” the ministry’s statement read.

Borrell came under fire after he compared Europe to a “garden” last week while terming the rest of the world a “jungle that could invade the garden”.

“The gardeners should take care of the garden, but they will not protect the garden by building walls. A nice small garden surrounded by high walls in order to prevent the jungle from coming in is not going to be a solution,” he said.

“Because the jungle has a strong growth capacity, and the wall will never be high enough. The gardeners have to go to the jungle. Europeans have to be much more engaged with the rest of the world. Otherwise, the rest of the world will invade us,” he added.

that Russia launched punitive strikes which military observers have said appear to be Moscow’s response to battlefield losses.

Zelensky described the repeated targeting of energy infrastructure as “another kind of Russian terrorist attack”.

“Since October 10, 30 per cent of Ukraine’s power stations have been destroyed, causing massive blackouts across the country,” the Ukrainian

leader said on Twitter.

He said the attack meant that there was “no space left for negotiations with [President Vladimir] Putin’s regime”.

hospitals on Backup poweR: Many towns and cities in the Zhytomyr region west of Kyiv and parts of the city of Dnipro in central Ukraine were without electricity, while power was restored to the southern city of Mykolaiv after strikes overnight.

“Now the city is cut off from electricity and water supplies. Hospitals are working on backup power,” the mayor of Zhytomyr, Sergiy Sukhomlyn, said in a statement online.

In the northeast meanwhile, Ukraine’s second-largest city of Kharkiv some 40 kilometres from the border with Russia was hit with eight missiles, the regional governor said.

In Kyiv, meanwhile, the DETK energy provider said its staff were “doing their best to restore electricity supply after the destruction of a critical infrastructure facility in Kyiv city.”

The mayor Vitali Klitschko said three people had been killed in Tuesday’s strikes. Agencies

Who could replace UK’s under-fire Prime Minister Liz Truss?

LONDON Agencies

UK Prime Minister Liz Truss has vowed to lead Britain’s Conservatives into the next election – due within two years – but after a disastrous six weeks in Downing Street many doubt she will remain leader long.

Here are the main contenders who could take over.

Rishi sunak

Truss easily beat the former chancellor of the exchequer in this summer’s Tory leadership contest, winning party members over with promises to slash taxes and regulations without curbing government spending.

Sunak, 42, repeatedly warned that her plans to fund the proposals through extra borrowing were reckless and could worsen decades-high inflation as well as market confidence in the UK.

Now that he has been proved entirely right — and Truss has scrapped her plans and replaced her previous finance minister with the Sunak-

backing Jeremy Hunt — some think he is the best-placed Conservative MP to replace Truss.

Sunak garnered the support of the largest number of Tory lawmakers in the early rounds of the recent leadership contest and is thought to still enjoy considerable support within the parliamentary party.

A new YouGov poll on Tuesday found he has the best ratings of the touted alternatives to Truss — albeit still with an overall net favourability rating of -18.

But he is also now viewed as a divisive figure. Many party members, who get the final say on who leads the party, are unwilling to forgive him for his role in ousting ex-prime minister Boris Johnson.

BoRis Johnson

The former premier left office early last month after a revolt among his cabinet and Tory MPs, sparked by the resignation of Sunak and others from his faltering government following months of controversies.

Encouraged by several strong hints from Johnson him-

self, speculation has swirled ever since that he would attempt an eventual comeback — though few thought that could be feasible this quickly.

The ever-ebullient Brexit figurehead remains popular with a section of Conservative MPs and the party but his brand among the wider electorate was severely damaged by his scandal-tainted threeyear tenure.

Tuesday’s YouGov poll showed the 58-year-old is far more popular than Truss. Yet around two-thirds of those asked had an unfavourable opinion of him.

Johnson has kept a low profile since resigning, giving a paid speech in the United States last week but no indications of his views on the current crises gripping the UK.

He was thought to favour Truss in the summer leadership contest — although his former top aide-turned-arch-critic Dominic Cummings argued that was because he expected her tenure to be disastrous and short-lived, paving the way for his return.

PeH condemns BJP attack on Hurriyat Conference office

MUZAFFARABAD Agencies

Chairman Pasban-e-Hurriyat (PeH) Uzair Ahmad Ghazali condemned the vandalism in All Parties Hurriyat Conference Office by force and stated it as Indian imperialist tactics.

In a statement issued here on Tuesday, he said that “All-Parties Hurriyat Conference” (APHC) represents the aspirations of the people of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and a legitimate conglomerate of freedom organizations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

He stated that some thugs of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the RSS attacked the head office of the “All-Party Hurriyat Conference” in Srinagar under the tight security of the administration, “They broke the signboard and changed its name by force.”

Uzair said that India should know that the people of Jammu and Kashmir consider the “All-Party Hurriyat Conference” as a savior of freedom from Indian occupation and their representative forum at the world level.

“APHC reflects the struggle of the Kashmiri people for a just and lasting solution to the conflict of Kashmir in accordance with the resolutions passed in the United Nations regarding the state of Jammu and Kashmir”, he maintained.

Uzair Ahmad said that Bharatiya Janata Party destroyed the state identity on August 5, 2019 by the use of military power.

“The BJP government has been trying to erase the spirit of freedom from the hearts of the Kashmiri people”, he said.

He said that for the past thirty-two years, “APHC” has been working to seek the attention of international community for the settlement of the Kashmir issue by continuing the resistance movement in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the people despite the oppression, arrests in IIOJ&K.

“APHC is a forum of thousands of martyrs in which the highest leadership, their close relatives and workers have sacrificed their lives for freedom” Ghazali voiced.

He reiterated that India can never succeed in crushing the freedom and people’s rights movement in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ghazali termed the vandalism of “APHC” head office in Srinagar by BJP goons under the supervision of the Indian Occupied administration and agencies as the height of cowardice.

He demanded the UN and other international organizations to raise their voice against human rights and political rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

China says BRI remains open, transcends outdated mentality of geopolitical games

IsLAMABAD MiAn AbrAr

The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has already become a well-received international public good and an important platform for international cooperation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday, in response to the Western claim that China is promoting the BRI out of geopolitical considerations.

“BRI transcends the outdated mentality of geopolitical games, and created a new model of international cooperation. It is not an exclusive group that excludes other participants but an open and inclusive cooperation platform. It is not just China’s solo effort, but a symphony performed by all participating countries,” Wang said.

Xi Jinping stressed promoting high-standard opening up in a report to the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China on Sunday. China will steadily expand institutional opening up with regard to rules, regulations, management, and standards, Xi said.

Efforts will be made to accelerate the country’s transformation into a trader of quality, promote the high-quality develop-

ment of the Belt and Road Initiative, and preserve the diversity and stability of the international economic landscape and economic and trade relations, Xi said.

Since the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was proposed in 2013, the initiative has always been development-oriented, and consistent efforts have been made to ensure that it is high-standard, sustainable and peoplecentered. Over the past nine years, the Belt and Road was built through consultation to meet the interests of all, and follows the philosophy of “open, green, and clean cooperation,” Wang said.

By August, China’s goods trade with countries participating in the BRI had reached around $12 trillion and the country’s non-financial direct investment in those countries surpassed $140 billion.

By the end of 2021, Chinese enterprises had invested $43 billion in the construction of economic and trade cooperation zones in BRI countries, creating more than 340,000 local jobs, official data showed.

A large number of practical cooperation projects have been delivered, contributing to local development and livelihoods. Thanks to the BRI, East Africa and Cambodia have

highways, Kazakhstan has ports for exports, the Maldives has its first cross-sea bridge and Laos has become a connected country from a landlocked one, Wang said.

“Despite the pandemic, BRI cooperation will continue to display strong resilience and vitality,” Wang said, noting that the number of China-Europe express cargo trains have increased, the China-Laos Railway and the Peljesac Bridge in Croatia opened for traffic and other key projects such as the JakartaBandung High-Speed Railway and ChinaThailand Railway are progressing steadily.

As of today, China has signed Authorized Economic Operators mutual recognition agreements with over 30 countries and regions, greatly promoting trade and investment convenience. The latest data shows that more than one-third of key infrastructure projects currently under construction adopt China standards, according to Wang.

The emergence of all kinds of initiatives on infrastructure development globally proves the strong vitality and bellwether effect of the BRI. Wang said, noting that China is open to other countries’ and regions’ participation in the BRI and is considering connecting with infrastructure initiatives

proposed by other nations to provide more good-quality public goods for the world.

Just as UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, the BRI and the 2030 Agenda “both have sustainable development as the overarching objective” and the BRI can speed up the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for the benefit of the whole world, Wang said.

Looking forward, China hopes to join hands with all partners to advance the highquality development of BRI cooperation for the common development of all countries, he said, stressing that China aims to strive for global connection rather than fragmentation, for mutual opening-up rather than shutting doors, for mutual integration rather than zero-sum games.

UAE’S MEiYAPPAn TAkES onLY fifTH-EvEr HAT-TriCk AT A T20 WorLd CUP

AUSTRALIA agencieS

kARTHIKMeiyappan of the United Arab Emirates took the first hat-trick of the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia on Tuesday and only the fifth ever in the history of the tournament.

Asian champions Sri Lanka were motoring at 117-2 in the first-round clash at Geelong when the leg-break bowler struck in the 15th over, removing Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Charith Asalanka and skipper Dasun Shanaka in successive balls.

Rajapaksa was caught in the deep, Asalanka caught behind and Shanaka clean-bowled. “It’s a great feeling and

it really hasn’t sunk in yet,” said the 22-year-old Meiyappan, who ended with figures of 3-19 off his four overs as Sri Lanka made 152-8.

“I was trying to take the ball away from the leftie (Rajapaksa), I was lucky that he sliced it to deep cover. Asalanka, it was easy for me to bowl a wrong’un, and he nicked it. “But Shanaka, that was a special ball, to get it through bat and pad. That was the biggest one.”

Meiyappan became just the fifth bowler to snare a hat-trick at a T20 World Cup after Australia’s Brett Lee (2007), Irishman Curtis Campher, Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga and South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, who all achieved the feat in 2021.

Pak pentathlon team clinches three medals in Modern Pentathlon Open Asian C’ship

athletes for the promotion of modern pentathlon among the younger generation,” he added.

Matthew Hayden hosts dinner in honor Pakistani team in Brisbane

LAHORE: Batting coach Pakistan cricket team, former Australian batting great Matthew Hayden on Monday evening hosted a dinner to the Pakistan cricket team at his Brisbane, Queensland home. Pakistan cricket team is currently in Brisbane to play warm-up matches prior to their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 opening match against arch-rivals India on October 23 in Melbourne. Matthew Haydon, who coached Pakistan team during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE and Oman for a short stint, has been re-assigned to serve as batting coach in Australia as well. The Queenslander Matthew Haydon, besides being an accomplished batter, is an excellent cook who prepared meals for his team-mates on tours during his playing days. Staff report

2nd round of School Cricket C’ship kicks off

LAHORE Staff report

Pakistan pentathlon team exhibited excellent performance and clinched three medals in Laser Run competitions of Modern Pentathlon Open Asian Championship held in Kyrgyzstan’s capital city Bishkek.

Director General Sports Punjab Muhammad Tariq Qureshi Tuesday congratulated the Pakistan pentathlon team for showing brilliant performance in Modern Pentathlon Open Asian Championship held this week.

He said Mohammad Muneer, Naeem Ahmed Zafar and Rana Mohsin Razzaq made the nation proud by winning coveted medals in international Modern Pentathlon Open Asian Championship. “Modern Pentathlon games are gaining popularity among the youth in our country. We are providing the best facilities to

He informed that Modern Pentathlon events will also be held in upcoming Punjab Games. “I am quite confident that the Pakistan pentathlon team will maintain its medal winning performance in the next international competitions,” he said.

As many as eight countries including Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, etc participated in the 5-day Modern Pentathlon Open Asian Championship.

Pakistan’s Mohammad Munir bagged the gold medal, Naeem Ahmed Zafar grabbed silver while Rana Mohsin Razzaq finished with the bronze medal in their respective Laser Run competitions. The Pakistani team was also awarded a trophy based on their number of points.

YouTubers team won Stars Premier League Season 3 cricket tournament

Karachi: Organized by Yuzi Brothers and with the support of Super Real Estate and Marketers, Stars Premier League season three cricket tournament fair was organized in Naya Nazimabad. Which is the third time in a row that YouTubers took their names. Teams from the showbiz stars, fashion models, YouTubers and TikTokers were seen in action in the event. After the best performance in the single league, YouTubers and Tik Toker teams qualified for the finals. In the final, Tik Taker's team won the toss and decided to bat first and scored twenty eight runs in the allotted five overs. Staff report

Pak HC in Australia kicks off Jansher Khan Canberra Open 2022

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA agencieS

Punjab Chief Secretary Abdullah Khan Sumbal has issued instructions to all the deputy commissioners to ensure best arrangements for successfully conduct of second phase of the ongoing Punjab School Cricket Championship (PSCC) across the province. Chief Secretary Abdullah Sumbal said that deputy commissioners must continue their efforts to organize and promote school cricket. He said that the promotion of sports is an important national cause, adding that good players earn fame for the country and nation at the international level. He mentioned that school cricket would bring new talent to the fore. The Punjab government has organized school cricket championship in collaboration with the Pakistan Cricket Board since August 28, 2022. The first phase, consisted of district-level matches, was completed on October 17. During the second phase, there will be division-level matches while the final match of the cricket tournament will be held on November 18 at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore. A total of 882 matches will be played during the championship in which 396 teams from 36 districts are participating.

The inaugural Jansher Khan Canberra Open 2022 – a USD $20K Professional Squash Association (PSA) event, was kicked off at Woden Squash Centre, Canberra, Australia, which will continue till October 22.

To officially commence the Jansher Khan Canberra Open, an inaugural ceremony was held at the High Commission for Pakistan, Canberra.

The event will see 24 top rating professional squash players from all over the world. Jansher Khan Canberra Open is named after the legendary Pakistani squash player.

During his career, Jansher Khan won the World Open a record eight times, and the British Open a record six times. He is a winner of World Super Series and a Guinness World Records holder. Jansher Khan was also known as “the fastest man in squash”.

Speaking on the occasion, High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri thanked the or-

ganizers, sponsors and the players taking part in the Tournament.

The High Commissioner highlighted the glorious history of domination by Pakistani players in the field of Squash.

He said that the journey began with Hashim Khan who was the first Pakistani to win the British Open in 1951 and Pakistan reached its peak in the 1980s and 1990s during the reigns of Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan.

Between 1950 and 1997, he said, Pakistan amassed over 30 British Open titles, 14 World Open titles and many more Professional Squash Association (PSA) professional titles.The High Commissioner expressed the hope that Pakistan will regain its lost glory in Squash.President of Squash ACT Michael Nuttall appreciated the High Commission for the excellent initiative to promote Squash.The event was attended by officials from Squash ACT, sponsors, event volunteers, international players, and media persons.

Ganguly removed as BCCI chief for refusing to join ruling BJP

MUMBAI agencieS

World Cup winner Roger Binny was Tuesday appointed head of India’s cricket board — the sport’s richest body — replacing Sourav Ganguly after he was reportedly forced out in a political tussle.

Binny, 67, was elected president at a meeting of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Mumbai, where secretary Jay Shah won another term in office, vicepresident Rajeev Shukla told reporters.

The BCCI, which has a net worth reported at $2 billion, has been in chaos and there have been a slew of court cases involving the powerful organisation.

Bangalore-born Binny, who was part of India’s historic 1983 World Cup-winning squad, steps into the shoes of Ganguly, widely regarded as one of cricket’s greatest captains.

Ganguly, 50, had initially been tipped to

earn a second term as president but reports said he was shunted out because he refused to join India’s ruling party – BJP.

Ganguly is widely regarded as one of India’s greatest captains and has been in charge of the powerful Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the past three years. But Ganguly, 50, is said to have declined to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Hence, 1983 World Cup winner Roger Binny filed his nomination to replace Ganguly and will likely be elected unopposed next week, board vice-president Rajeev Shukla told reporters.

Politicians from Ganguly’s home state of West Bengal alleged that the former batsman was forced out.

It was a “political vendetta” by the government, opposition lawmaker Santanu Sen said on Twitter.

“We are with you Dada!” he added, re-

ferring to Ganguly by his nickname.

Ganguly’s political allegiance has been a regular source of media speculation in recent months and the country’s home minister Amit Shah visited him at home earlier this year. India’s top court recently relaxed a rule that barred sporting officials from consecutive terms in office in the same position, opening the way for Shah’s son Jay — the BCCI secretary — and Ganguly to seek reappointment.

The BJP has denied involvement in the board’s looming vote and accused its opponents of politicising the issue.

“Sourav Ganguly is a cricketing legend. Some people are now shedding crocodile tears about the changes in BCCI,” said the party’s vice-president Dilip Ghosh.

Current BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal, younger brother of the country’s sports minister Anurag Thakur, is expected to be elected chairman of the Indian Premier League.

LAHORE Staff report

Govt mulls over resuminG work on iran-Pakistan Gas PiPeline ProjeCt

ISLAMABAD ahMad ahMadani

iNorder to minimise the energy deficit of the country, the coalition government is seriously considering restarting work on Iran-Pakistan (IP) Gas Pipeline Project while following the international laws, it was learnt on Tuesday.

According to sources, the government is reviewing the whole process for resumption of work on IP Gas Pipeline Project as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has become not a reliable source for the energy security of the country. They said that the government is sincerely mulling to find a solution to resume work on the IP Gas Pipeline Project in order to meet the country’s

energy requirement on a sustainable basis while following the internal laws.

They said the incumbent government believes that in the present circumstance IP Gas Pipeline Project has become a suitable option instead of relying on expansive LNG to meet the burgeoning energy needs of the country. After a long time, an important meeting has been called by the new Secretary Petroleum Capt (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood to discuss and review in detail for finding the possible/suitable options to restart the IP Gas Pipeline Project, said sources.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the 22nd annual meeting of the Council of Heads of State (CHS) of the SCO in September 2022 and held meeting with Iranian President

Cabinet approves expansion in advanced power metering project

ISLAMABAD staff report

The Federal Cabinet in its meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday approved, in principle, the expansion of the current installation of advance meters project in Islamabad to other areas of the country to overcome the issue of line losses.

The cabinet also approved the installation of advance meters on power transformers. The prime minister directed for preparation of a list of corrupt officers in the power distribution companies and deputing of wellreputed officers on different posts to improve the functioning of the companies, reduce the line losses and ensure better public delivery.

He observed that such performing offices should be encouraged with appreciation and awards. The cabinet was given a detailed briefing by the Power Division regarding electricity theft, line losses and the comprehensive strategy to reduce them, the PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

The meeting was also apprised of the power theft, line losses, bills and recovery in the DISCOs with the presentation of all the relevant data, besides issues in the way of recovery from those feeders which had been running into losses and the steps and proposals in that regard.

The prime minister directed the Power Division to present in the next meeting a comprehensive report on the vacant posts of essential staff in the DISCOs and stressed that the employment process should be held transparent while bringing it at par with the best global practices.

Expressing his dissatisfaction over the average 7 percent line losses, the prime minister set up a committee headed by Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif for the formulation of a comprehensive plan to reduce the line losses average under phases and in line with the global practices immediately, besides submission of recommendations to bring reforms in the power distribution companies.

Other members of the committee included Minister for Trade and Production Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Power Engineer Khurram Dastagir Khan, Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Shazia Marri, Minister of State for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik, Minister for Science and Technology Agha Hassan Baloch, Minister for Housing Maulana Abdul Wasay, PM’s Advisor Engineer Amir Muqam and the secretary power. The committee, after holding of consultation, would present a comprehensive strategy before the cabinet over the period of a fortnight.

The cabinet also approved the recommendation of the Power Division for the promotion of low-cost solar power energy initiatives throughout the country to replace the import of costly fuel.

Ebrahim Raisi in Samarkand on 15th September 202 on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting where both the countries agreed to further promote bilateral relations in diverse fields. During the meeting, the two sides affirmed the desire to strengthen cooperation in economic, trade, connectivity, energy, culture and people-to-people links.

The work on IP gas pipeline was stalled due to US sanctions on Iran as no Pakistani bank was ready to take the risk of financing the project. The project has always been part of discussions at the high-level interactions between both the countries but no progress has been witnessed since years.

As per the IP-GSPA (Gas Sales, Purchase Agreement), the first gas

flow was to start from January 1, 2015. However, the project (IP) could not be implemented due to international sanctions on Iran.

It is pertinent to mention here that the gas would be supplied from Iran’s south Pars gas field and delivered at Pak-Iran border near Gwadar. The project was to be implemented on a segmented approach whereby each country was responsible for construction of pipeline in their respective territory.

The distance up to the Iran-Pakistan border is 1,150 kilometer, while Pakistan’s segment distance is 781km. The Iranian side has already completed construction of over 900km within Iran. The gas volume to be transported to Pakistan is 750 MMCFD and the supply contract is for 25 years.

High court puts off disqualification petition against PTI chief

ISLAMABAD staff report

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday adjourned the hearing of a petition seeking disqualification of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

Chairman Imran Khan for an indefinite time.

A single member bench, comprising Justice Aamer Farooq, heard the plea filed by a citizen Sajid. The petitioner stated that former prime minister Imran Khan had not disclosed complete information about his assts in his nomination papers submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

The court adjourned the case due to absence of the both the petitioner and his lawyer.

COURT DISPOSES OF IMRAN’S BAIL PETITION: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Tuesday disposed of the bail petition of PTI’s Chief Imran Khan after declaring it as ineffective in prohibited funding case.

Chief Justice Athar Minallah, hearing the

case, remarked that the court of Justice Mohsin Akhter Kayani would view the jurisdiction of the trial court. The court also granted exemption from appearance to PTI’s head Imran Khan in the case.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had registered FIR against Imran Khan and others under Foreign Exchange Act.

The court observed that this case had become ineffective now after the petitioner had surrendered before the trial court.

Imran Khan’s lawyer Suleman Safdar Advocate pleaded that an identical matter was also pending with the court of Justice Mohsin Akhter Kayani. The court had also sought report from the trial court, he added.

The Additional Attorney General argued that this matter fell into the jurisdiction of special judge banking instead of special judge central. After this, the court disposed of the case. The IHC had granted previously protective bail to Imran Khan and instructed him to approach the special judge central for relief during the time.

ECP once again postpones Karachi LG polls

ISLAMABAD staff report

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday once again postponed the local government (LG) elections in Karachi, citing unavailability of security personnel to provide security to voters.

The move triggered hue and cry by political parties as Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) criticised the decision while Jamat-i-Islami (JI) announced to challenge the decision in the apex court.

A high level meeting, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja decided to meet again after a fortnight to get feedback from the provincial government and other law enforcement agencies for conducting LG polls as soon as possible.

The meeting accepted request from the Sindh government and postponed the LG elections in seven districts of Karachi scheduled for October 23 for three months.

“The ECP had no other option but to postpone the LG elections as peaceful conduct of the election and protection of the voters was its top priority,” said the spokesman.

He said the decision was taken in the best interest of public to ensure their safety and security as the elections required static deployment of law enforcement personnel in 5,000 sensitive and most sensitive polling stations, which was refused by the Interior Ministry.

The commission decided to hold by-elections in NA-45 Kurram on October 30 and directed the concerned to complete their arrangements for

holding free, fair and impartial elections.

Earlier, the ECP had also postponed the Kurram by-elections scheduled for October 16 due to the law and order situation in the constituency.

In its request, the Sindh government had stated that there were difficulties in providing security for the polls as it is facing a shortage of 16,785 police personnel.

The interior ministry had informed the ECP that the Army and Rangers could be provided as a quick reaction force.

SCHEDULE FOR NA-45 KURRAM BY-POLL: Meanwhile, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced schedule for by-elections to NA-45 Kurram constituency, which was postponed due to law and order situation.

Pakistan finalises proposals for upcoming 11th jCC

ISLAMABAD Mian abrar

Top government officials and expert delegates on Tuesday had a detailed review of the progress mad on the projects being developed under the second phase of the multibillion-dollar China, Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). At a preparatory meeting for the upcoming 11th meeting of Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) set to be held this month, the ministry of planning and development held a detailed review of the progress made for the JCC. Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal reviewed the progress while Secretary, Ministry of Planning and Development, Secretary Ministry of Communications, Executive Director CPEC and representatives from various ministries also attended.

During the pre-CPEC JCC meeting, major deliverable projects were discussed in length, which will be taken up in the up-coming JCC meeting.

It merits mentioning that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would be visiting China later this week and hence the 11th JCC would have a significance since the incumbent government has already revived CPEC projects, which remained neglected during the last four years of PTI’s tenure. During the meeting, several projects in various sectors such as energy, transport, Information Technology, Socio-Economic Development, Industrial Cooperation, Science & Technology, Transport Infrastructure and International Cooperation were discussed.

The respective ministries shared their deliverable proposals of projects after conducting their Joint Working Groups Joint Working Groups (JWGs) to be taken up in JCC with the Chinese authorities.

The minister directed the Power Division to expedite the approval process of energy policy for Gilgit Baltistan (GB) so that already agreed projects for GB could be pushed forward.

The minister also stated that Chinese authorities have shown great interest in mining sector and directed the concerned ministry to make a tangible proposal in this regard. “The Chinese are ready to set-up a working group on the mining sector therefore, we must give them some tangible proposals,” said the minister, while stressing the ministries to make a concrete plan rather than a businessas usual approach.

He further directed that the Development and Production Facility of Solar Panels for domestic use as well as export may be considered for inclusion in the agenda of the meeting. During the meeting, representative from Information Technology informed the minister that Pakistan and China decided to set up six sub-working groups on communication technology infrastructure, application innovation, policy and regulation, HR development, cyber security and radio spectrum regulation. Similarly, it was also proposed that the PakChina Technology Business Forum would be formally established during the JCC meeting. The minister also directed the concerned ministries to focus on the longterm plans as well so projects could be operationalised.

People of pen, knowledge must make stand against mafias trampling law: imran

ISLAMABAD staff report

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan said that the corrupt mafia fostered a culture of violation of constitution and trampling on the law just to protect and safeguard their vested interests. “It is inevitable that people of pen and knowledge should raise their voice against these oppression and lawlessness without any expediency.” Talking to a joint delegation of National Press Club and Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalists who called on him here on Tuesday, the PTI chairman said that the “imported government” left behind dictators in violation of human rights, especially the announced and unannounced curbs on the media. During the meeting, the freedom of expression in the country and the fascism against journalists at the government level were discussed in detail.

Islamabad puts weight behind Riyadh in its tiff with Washington

“Pakistan encourages a constructive approach on such issues based on engagement and mutual respect,” it added.

Pakistan, in the wake of statements made against the Kingdom in the context of Organization of Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC+) decision, on Tuesday expressed solidarity with the leadership of Saudi Arabia.

The development comes days after Biden administration threatened Riyadh against OPEC decision to cut oil production.

“We appreciate the concerns of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for avoiding market volatility and ensuring global economic stability,” Foreign Office said in a statement issued here.

“We reaffirm our long-standing, abiding and fraternal ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” the statement maintained.

A day prior, Saudi Arabia rejected the United States’ accusations of aligning itself with Russia amid the Ukraine war by making oil production cuts to drive up crude prices, insisting it was purely a business decision.

“We are astonished by the accusations that the kingdom is standing with Russia in its war with Ukraine,” the Saudi defence minister, Prince Khaled bin Salman, tweeted late Sunday.

The Saudi-led OPEC+ cartel — which includes Russia — has angered Washington by deciding to cut production by two million barrels per day from November, adding further pressure on soaring crude prices.

“It is telling that these false accusations did not come from the Ukrainian government,” Prince Khaled wrote. “Although the OPEC+ decision, which was taken unanimously, was due to purely economic reasons, some accused the kingdom of standing with Russia.

BIDEN vOwS CONSEqUENCES FOR SAUDI ARABIA: US President Joe Biden pledged on October 13 that “there will be consequences” for US relations with

Saudi Arabia after OPEC+ announced last week that it would cut oil production over US objections.

His announcement came a day after powerful Democratic Senator Bob Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the United States must immediately freeze all cooperation with Saudi Arabia, including arms sales.

Biden, in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, said he would not discuss what options he was considering.

“I’m not going to get into what I’d consider and what I have in mind. But there will be — there will be consequences,” he said.

White House press secretary Karine

Jean-Pierre said a policy review would be conducted but gave no timeline for action or information on who would lead the re-evaluation.

The United States will be watching the situation closely “over the coming weeks and months,” she said.

John Kirby, the White House national security spokesperson, said Biden would work with Congress “to think through what that relationship ought to look like going forward.”

“And I think he’s going to be willing to start to have those conversations right away. I don’t think this is anything that’s going to have to wait or should wait, quite frankly, for much longer,” Kirby added.

ISLAMABAD staff report