Epaper_23-01-28 KHI

Saturday, 28 January, 2023 I 5 Rajab, 1444

Zardari among those hatching ‘plan C to eliminate me’: Imran

China-imported coaches to help increase revenue of Pakistan Railways: PM

In par tnership with

Profit

Tareen, son cleared of money-laundering charges

PM hoPeful of IMf agreeMent beIng sIgned thIs Month

g says agreement wIll encourage multIlateral lenders to support pakIstan

g thanks chIna for commItment on ml-1 project, provIdIng all possIble assIstance

ter nawaz sharif. but, unfortunately, the ptI government of the past discontinued it.

the prime minister commended railways minister khawaja saad rafique for adopting the model of outsourcing train services, including internal and janitorial ones. he said outsourcing services is the way forward in today’s world as governments should focus on governing institutions instead of running them.

shehbaz sharif said state owned enterprises have become loss-making entities due to political interference. “we are focusing on saving each and every penny of the national kitty.” the prime minister also expressed the confidence that agreement with the Imf will soon be finalized and after that all multilateral and bilateral institutions will also come forward to support pakistan.

he said the coalition government is committed to steer the country out of current economic crisis. shehbaz sharif also thanked china for its commitment on ml-1 project and providing all possible assistance to pakistan.

Lucky Industries signs agreement to buy 75pc shares in Lotchem

iSLAMABAD Staff report

PrImeminister shehbaz sharif friday said that he fully expects an agreement with the International monetary fund (Imf) this month, after which other multilateral lenders would also support the country to help mitigate its economic crisis.

“I fully expect an agreement with the Imf will be signed this month and we will get out of these difficulties. and multilateral institutions will also support us.”

prime minister shehbaz sharif expressed the views while addressing the inaugural ceremony of green line train service here in Islamabad.

“the coalition government is committed

to steering the country out of current economic crisis.”

finance minister Ishaq dar, railways and civil aviation minister khawaja saad rafique and planning and development minister ahsan Iqbal also attended the ceremony. the premier’s comments follow the Imf’s announcement of fielding its staff mission to pakistan on jan 31 for talks for the ninth quarterly review of a funding programme pending for almost four months. the completion of the review would ensure release $1.2 billion for the country, which is facing a severe cash crisis as foreign exchange reserves deplete to a critical level. addressing the inaugural ceremony at margalla railway station, pm shehbaz said the green line was launched during the previous government of former prime minis-

earlier, speaking on the occasion, khawaja saad rafique said green line express train will have luxury coaches.

he said we have signed an agreement with china to import 230 coaches. he said 46 coaches have arrived from and rest will be manufactured in pakistan under transfer of technology agreement with china. saad rafique said over 2,000 passengers can benefit from this train on daily basis. he said the train will offer various services, including wi-fi, infotainment, bedding, a utility kit and fresh food.

It is pertinent to mention that the green line, plying between margalla station Islamabad to karachi, will stop at rawalpindi, chaklala, lahore, khanewal, bahawalpur, rohri, hyderabad and drigh road on the way. the turnaround time of the green line is set at 22 hours which will be reduced over time.

g Interbank rate closes at rs262, open market rs269

profit report

Shahnawaz ali

the us dollar starts from where it left off yesterday. at the closing time, the state bank reported the interbank exchange rate of dollars to be at rs.

262.6. the exchange rate also touched the 264 rupee mark in the intraday trading. the closing rate marks a 2.7% depreciation in the value of rupee. In the open market, the dollar was quoted at as much as 269, however, the availability was scarce as before.

In a historic session, on thursday, the rupee lost its value by rs. 24, in a single day. this was reported to be the highest level of depreciation within a single day, both in real and absolute terms in the last two decades. collectively, the value of the rupee has now dropped by more than 12% in the last two days.

experts believe that this was a much needed move and will help export proceeds and remittances back to formal channels. despite massive depreciation, the market expects further devaluation, resulting in little to no selling of dollars in the market. a liquidity crisis is also owed to the forex reserves of pakistan that were recorded at their lowest ever in the last 8 years, at $3.67 billion on thursday. the dollar index also dropped by 0.28% this week, showing the weakening of the greenbacks against 6 major currencies of the world. however, this development, fails to provide any respite against rupee which was fresh off the peg itself. pakistan is said to have devalued its currency in line with the Imf program, a delegation of which, is expected to visit pakistan between 31st january and 7th february.

Fawad Ch sent to jail as court rejects extension in remand

iSLAMABAD Staff report a district and sessions court here on friday sent ptI leader fawad chaudhry to adiala jail on a 14-day judicial remand in a case over alleged incitement of violence against a constitutional institution.

the court on wednesday night had granted police an initial two-day remand of fawad, hours after he was arrested. the former information minister was taken into custody after a first information report (fIr) against him was registered at Islamabad’s kohsar police station by the secretary election commission of pakistan (ecp) for “threatening” the electoral body’s members and their families.

the ecp’s plea for an extension in fawad ch’s remand was heard by judge raja waqas ahmed on friday. during the hearing, advocate saad hassan, the counsel for ecp and prosecutor in the case, informed the court that the ptI leader’s voice matching

had been completed. he requested an extension in remand, saying that fawad had to be taken to lahore for a photogrammetric test.

the prosecutor contended that the former federal minister was inciting hatred against a constitutional institution.

“fawad is trying to create unrest,” he said. “the statement threatens the lives of the election commission’s workers.”

the ecp lawyer argued that an extension in the ptI leader’s remand was imperative to carry out further investigation in the case. he cited the shehbaz gill case as an example.

“a day had already passed when the remand was approved at 12am,” the investigation officer said. “technically [speaking] we just got his remand for a day and we want an extension to it.”

the ecp lawyer told the court that fawad’s statement was available on record, adding that the ptI leader had also acknowledged his speech. “no one can object the speech. “the accused has accepted his statement.”

he added that the election commission’s employees were told that they do “the work of a clerk”. “we were threatened that they (ptI supporters) will reach our homes.”

at this, fawad’s counsel babar awan accused the election commission of colluding with the government against ptI. “we are being blamed and pressurised.”

the ecp lawyer responded that fawad was a senior politician but “no one is above the law”. he told the court that it was mandatory to search the ptI leader’s home. “It is important to recover fawad’s laptop and mobile phone in his presence”.

following the conclusion of the arguments, the judge approved fawad’s request to have his handcuffs removed inside the court and also reserved its verdict on the issue of remand extension. ahead of the hearing, heavy contingents of frontier corps personnel and police were deployed outside the court. some ptI workers also clashed

with policemen. media personnel, former human rights minister shireen mazari and exsapm Zulfi bukhari among other ptI leaders were restrained by police from going inside the courtroom.

“are we terrorists that we are not allowed to go inside the court?” mazari remarked while talking to the media. “are you taking revenge from us?”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 05

Rupee continues to slide in interbank, open market

Govt commItted to elImINAte RIbA-bAsed fINANcIAl system: dAR

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

fEDERALMinister for Finance and Revenue Senator Ishaq Dar chaired the First Steering Committee meeting on implementation of Federal Shariat Court (FSC)’s judgment on Riba here on Friday.

Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Dr. Aisha Ghous Pasha, SAPM on Finance Tariq Bajwa, Governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Secretary Finance, members of the Steering Committee and senior officers from Finance Division and SBP attended the meeting.

Inaugurating the First meeting of the Steering Committee, Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar appreciated Governor SBP for his sincere efforts in making a roadmap for implementation of Islamic financing and interest free system and hoped that the guidance of Governor SBP will lead the implementation of interest free system to its

logical destination. He also expressed satisfaction on SBP and NBP for withdrawing appeals in the Supreme Court against the judgment of Federal Shariat Court and paving the way for its implementation.

Finance Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar further expressed commitment of the Government to promote Islamic finance and eliminate interest based system in Pakistan in true spirit and achieve its goal of transformation within the timeframe of five years. He expressed hope that the decisions of this meeting would be beneficial for the proliferation of Islamic financing system in the country.

He stressed all the stakeholders to work with commitment, sincerity and understanding to overcome all the hurdles in the way of implementation of interest free system and making the system feasible and stronger that all citizens would aspire for it, as already 21 per cent of banks enjoy Islamic banking system.

NAb-KP seeks assets details of Gandapur brothers, families

PESHAWAR Staff RepoRt

The National Accountability Bureau, in the wake of a complaint, on Friday sought information from Deputy Commissioner DI Khan the details of inherited, gifted, sold or purchased properties of PTI former MNA and federal minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, former KP Minister Faisal Amin Gandapur, Nazim DI Khan Umar Amin Khan Gandapur, their father, mother and other immediate family members. The letter wrote to the DC specially sought information on property in Hathala, Tehsil Kulachi and Command area of Gomal Zam Dam and West Route of CPEC near the park. The bureau has sought details of Amin Ullah Khan s/o Khan Bahadar Muhammad Asim Khan, Robina Khanum w/o Amin ullah, Umar Amin, Faisal Amin, Ali Amin, Haifa Amin d/o Amin ullah Khan, Manahil d/o Amin ullah Khan Mahnaz Ali d/o Ali Amin, Muhammad Aslam s/o Ali Amin, Ayesha Amin d/o Ali Amin and Aliya Amin d/o Ali Amin.

sHc grants 10-day protective bail to mQm leader Ghauri

KARACHI Staff RepoRt

The Sindh High Court (SHC) has granted 10-day protective bail to former federal minister for ports and shipping and MQM leader Babar Khan Ghauri. Ghauri will have to deposit Rs.0.2m as surety for his protective bail as ordered by the court. Sources learnt that Sindh High Court heard the petition filed by Babar Ghauri’s daughter Alishah. Counsel for Babar Ghauri said that the former federal minister will arrive in Pakistan on January 30. An antiterrorism court had issued unbailable arrest warrants for Ghauri. The high court also suspended arrest warrants for Ghauri. NAB has also summoned Babar Ghauri.

The Finance Minister urged to include professional experts on Islamic laws in the committees and also sought guidance of Ulema and Islamic intellectuals into launching of additional Islamic Sukuk bonds. He

further extended full support to every effort towards implementation of FSC decision on Islamic finance system.

Earlier, Governor State Bank of Pakistan welcomed the participants of the

meeting and briefed on the roadmap and areas of actions on implementation of the FSC’s judgment.

He further informed that five working groups have been formed to overcome the technical issues, getting recommendations and deciding on a way forward for full implementation of the Islamic financing.

Meanwhile, in another communique, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a meeting with Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, Acting Governor Baluchistan Mir Jan Mohammad Jamali and Balochistan Provincial Minister Zamrak Khan Achakzai in Islamabad.

The meeting discussed the current economic situation in the country and financial issues and execution of development projects especially in flood affected areas of Balochistan.The Finance Minister committed to extend full support of the federal government for the development and progress of Baluchistan province.

ECP announces by-polls to 33 NA seats vacated by PTI

Staff RepoRt

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday announced to hold by-polls on 33 vacant National Assembly seats on March 16.

According to the ECP’s election schedule, candidates will be able to file their nomination papers between February 6-8. The names of the candidates will be published on February 9 and the returning officers (RO) will carry out the scrutiny of the nomination papers till February 13.

The last date to file appeals against the RO’s decision on the acceptance or rejection of nomination papers is February 16. The last date for the appellate tribunal to decide on the appeals is February 20. After this, the revised list of candidates will be published on February 21.

The last date to withdraw candidature and release of revised list of candidates is February 22, while the election symbols will be allotted on February 23 and the polls will be held on March 16.

The constituencies, where by-polls will be held on March 16 include: NA-04 Swat-III, NA-53 Islamabad-

II, NA-126 Lahore-IV, NA-247 Karachi South-II, NA17 Haripur-I, NA-54 Islamabad-III, NA-130 Lahore-VIII, NA-250 Karachi West-III, NA-18 SwabiI, NA-57 Rawalpindi-I, NA-155 Multan-I, NA-252 Karachi West-V, NA-25 Nowshera-I, NA-59 Rawalpindi-III, NA-156 Multan-III, NA-254 Karachi Central-II, NA-26 Nowshera-II, NA-60 Rawalpindi-IV, NA-191 Dera Ghazi Khan-III, NA-256 Karachi Central-IV, NA-32 Kohat, NA-62 Rawalpindi-VI, NA-241 Korangi Karachi-III, NA-265 Quetta-II, NA-38 D.I. Khan-I, NA-63 Rawalpindi-VII, NA242 Karachi East-I, NA-43 Khyber-I, NA-67 Jhelum-II, NA-243 Karachi East-II, NA-52 Islamabad-I, NA-97 Bhakkar-I and NA-244 Karachi East-III.

These seats fell vacant after the PTI MNAs had tendered their resignations en masse after the Imran Khan-led government was ousted via a no-confidence motion in April of last year.

A few days ago, their resignations were accepted by the National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf and consequently the ECP de-notified them. The resignations of 123 PTI MNAs have so far been accepted and all have been de-notified by the ECP.

Farrukh Habib gets interim bail in police attack case

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

A local court in Lahore on Friday granted interim bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Farrukh Habib in a case registered against him for allegedly attacking law enforcement personnel to get Fawad Chaudhry released.

The Ferozewala court granted interim bail to PTI leader till February 16.

A First Information Report (FIR) was registered late night at Ferozewala police station on the complaint of

Imran to vie for nine Karachi NA seats in by-polls

KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Imran Khan has decided to contest upcoming bypolls to nine constituencies National Assembly (NA) from Karachi. PTI Chairman Imran Khan will be PTI’s candidate from all nine Karachi constituencies in the by-elections announced by the Election Commission of Pakistan. The decision comes hours after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) released schedule for by-elections to 33 National Assembly (NA) vacated by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf MNAs. The ECP has decided to hold by-election to 33 NA seats on March 16, for which nomination papers can be received from February 6 to 8.

Pakistan condemns Israel’s attack in Palestine

federal police office Adeel Shaukat. The first information report (FIR) was lodged against Farrukh Habib for ‘interfering in official affairs’ and ‘tearing uniforms of policemen’. The PTI leader has been booked under sections 148, 149, 186, 225, 341, 353, and 395 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

In FIR is stated that the PTI leader and his associates ‘tried to interfere in official affairs and cause damage.’ “Habib and his associates tried to snatch government weapons, vehicle and wireless”, the FIR stated, adding that they also tried to free ‘arrested Fawad Chaudhry’.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s brutal attack on the city and camp of Jenin in the State of Palestine, killing several innocent Palestinians, including an elderly woman, and injuring at least 20 others. Pakistan denounces the spate of reprehensible, cold blooded and murderous attacks that have already killed thirty (30) Palestinians this month. According to the press release issued by Foreign Office (FO) Pakistan called upon the international community to assume its responsibility in bringing these illegal incursions and actions by the Israeli occupation forces to a halt and ensuring adequate protection of the human rights of the Palestinian people. Staff RepoRt

PTI’s failure to secure ML-I project with China led to double project cost: Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD

MIAn ABRAR

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Ishaq Dar Friday blamed the outgoing Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government for failing to secure the Main Line-1 (ML-1) project with China due to which he claimed that the project cost had almost doubled.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of Green Line Train Project here, the minister said the cost of ML-1 was project at $6 billion under $46 billion China Pakistan Eco-

nomic Corridor (CPEC) project, however due to failure by the previous regime for not executing on time; it may cost now $11 billion to $12 billion.

“This is legacy of previous government which this government inherited. They [previous government] should have actually implemented that but they could not,” the minister said.

The minister congratulated Federal Minister for Railways, Khawaja Saad Rafiq for reviving the impressive Green Line Railway service.

The minister also highlighted the impor-

tance of commercialization of railway track, which he said would not only help Railways to stand on its own feet but would make it profit-earning organization to contribute in the national economy.

He also underlined the importance for utilizing Railways for freight transport which he said could minimizing the transport cost to a great extent. The minister said that Pakistan had become 24th largest economy in 2016 however owing to PTI inabilities it stood at 47th number last year. He highlighted the importance of investigating the reasons behind this downfall.

He said, Pakistan Muslim League (N) government had turned around economy at a time when it was predicted to default within a period of 6 months back in 2013.

He said, during the past PML(N) tenure, food inflation was just 2 percent; general inflation 4.6 percent whereas GDP was recorded at 6.8 percent with highest foreign reserves adding the Pakistan Stock Exchange was best in South Asia and 5th best performing in the world. He said, at that time all world organization were looking towards Pakistan, which

was predicted to be second choicest investment destination. He however deplored that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf ruined all this progress.

The minister said, Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif has been meeting many challenges and expressed the hope that he would pull the country out of quagmire.

Meanwhile, speaking on the occasion, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said that railways act as a backbone for the economy, and its development was directly linked with the economic development.

ISLAMABAD

PtI cHAlleNGes NAQvI’s APPoINtmeNt As cARetAKeR PuNjAb cm

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

tHEPakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Friday moved Supreme Court (SC) against the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision to appoint opposition nominee Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi as the caretaker chief minister of Punjab.

The party also filed another petition in the apex court, seeking removal of Raja Riaz as the Opposition Leader in the National Assembly.

The ECP on Jan 22 appointed Mohsin Naqvi as the caretaker Punjab Chief Minister after the parliamentary committee failed to reach a consensus. The petition was filed by PTI Secretary General Asad Umar in the apex court.

The petitioner pleaded with the court

to declare Naqvi’s appointment “null and void” and stop him from working as caretaker Punjab chief minister.

The petitioner also challenged the appointment of ECP members Babar Bharwana and Ikramullah in top court.

The matter of the appointment of the caretaker Punjab CM reached the election commission after the parliamentary committee failed to reach a consensus.

The PTI-PML-Q alliance had suggested the names of Naveed Akram Cheema, Ahmed Nawaz Sukhera, Nasir Khosa and Naseer Khan as their nominee for the caretaker Punjab CM whereas, the opposition had picked the names of Mohsin Naqvi and Ahad Cheema.

Following the nomination of Naqvi for the slot, Imran Khan slammed the commission and tweeted, “PML-N has history of selecting their own umpires but

it’s incredible how ECP has selected a sworn enemy of PTI as Caretaker CM Punjab – a post meant for a non-partisan person.” “Naqvi also made a voluntary return deal with NAB [National Accountability Bureau]. SC [Supreme Court] in suo moto case no 17/2016 declared that in a case of voluntary return a person cannot hold any public office at federal or provincial level nor in any state organisation.”

Raja Riaz’s appointment as NA opposition leader challenged IN another petition, the PTI on Friday approached the Supreme Court for the removal of Raja Riaz as the Opposition Leader in the National Assembly.

The petition stated that Raja Riaz was appointed opposition leader without the consultation of the PTI. He was made the opposition leader in the collusion with

law officers enjoying hefty salaries at Advocate General office

LAHORE Staff RepoRt

the incumbent government, bypassing the rules and regulations.

Dissident Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) MNA Raja Riaz was appointed as opposition leader in National Assembly with the support of 16 lawmakers in May this year after 125 PTI MNAs resigned from their assembly. MNA Riaz joined the race for the opposition leader’s slot along with GDA MNA Ghous Bakhsh Mahar, following the withdrawal of PML-Q MNA Moonis Elahi. The dissident PTI MNA had submitted an application signed by 17 lawmakers in the National Assembly secretariat for his nomination as the opposition leader. The deputy speaker sought names from the aspiring candidates for the opposition leader and the one who would have the support of the majority of opposition lawmakers would be nominated for the slot.

LHC provisionally reinstates Ahmad Awais as AGP

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday provisionally reinstated Ahmad Awais as the advocate general Punjab (AGP).

The court suspended the notification for removal of Ahmad Awais and also sought a reply from the Punjab government till January 30.

The single bench comprising Justice Asim Hafeez heard the petition, filed by Ahmad Awais, challenging his removal.

levies soldier martyred in bolan terror attack

BOLAn Staff RepoRt

A soldier of Levies Force was martyred in a terrorist attack in Bolan District of Balochistan on Friday. The terrorists targeted a checkpost of the Levies Force in Bala Nari area of Bolan and opened indiscriminate firing on the personnel deployed there. In the ensuing battle, Levies soldier Khalid Ahmad embraced martyrdom. The terrorists fled from the scene while firing. The latest attack came four days after another Levies Force soldier was martyred and an officer got injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire on their vehicle near the Wali Khan bypass in Mastung district. Armed men had opened fire when the Levies personnel reached at a petrol station near the Wali Khan bypass. In the exchange of fire, one soldier embraced martyrdom and a naib risaldar got injured.

Senior advocates, Hamid Khan and Shafqat Chohan, represented Ahmad Awais before the court and submitted that the caretaker provincial government had removed the applicant.

They argued that the caretaker government had no powers to terminate the law officers. They submitted that the caretaker governments were formed to hold fair and free elections only. They asked the court to set aside the impugned notification regarding removal of their client.

However, a provincial law officer opposed the plea and submitted that the advocate general Punjab was the

principal law officer which could remain on his seat till the pleasure of the chief minister. He pleaded with the court to dismiss the petition after declaring it infructuous.

The court, after hearing detailed arguments of the parties, suspended the notification for removal of Ahmad Awais and sought a reply from the provincial government till January 30.

Through a notification, issued on Jan 24, the caretaker government removed AGP Awais and assigned a look-after charge to Additional Advocate General Jawad Yaqoob.

Senate condemns desecration of Holy Quran in Sweden, Netherlands

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

The Senate on Friday held candid discussion on recent despicable acts of desecration of Holy Quran in Sweden and the Netherlands. Participating in the debate, Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar strongly condemned the desecration of Holy Quran in the two European countries. He said islam preaches the message of peace, tolerance and brotherhood and the Holy Quran is a complete code of life. The Minister said Islamophobic incidents in European countries are a matter of great concern. Azam Nazeer Tarar said the government will

take up the matter seriously at appropriate forums including the United Nations, OIC and the European Union and we will register our protest in a responsible manner. In his remarks, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said protests are taking place in different parts of the world over the heinous crime committed in the two European countries. He said the acts in European countries have hurt the sentiments of Muslim Ummah.

Taking the floor, Mushtaq Ahmad said the desecration of Holy Quran is an immoral, provocative and terrorist attack against Muslims. He called for lodging strong protest with the envoys of Sweden and the Netherlands to convey the sentiments of the Muslims on the shameful acts.

HEC chief jeopardizes jobs, future of 4500 faculty members: APTTA

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

All Pakistan Tenure Track Association (APTTA), a representative body of TTS faculty across Pakistan, carried out the press conference at National Press Club, Islamabad today, the 27th January, 2023.. The President and General Secratory of the association, Dr. Yasar Shah and Dr. Tanveer Shehzad, respectively, stated that HEC’s sitting chairman has jeopardized the jobs structure and future of 4500

tenure-track faculty members of universities in Pakistan. The office bearers informed the press that the HEC has revised the funding policy of the TTS.

This has serious repercussions for the job security, annual increments, and promotion of the TTS faculty because the HEC’s share of TTS funding is going to shrink under the revised funding policy. Universities have already stopped hiring new TTS faculty despite the fact that the same faculty has been the best performing component of university

faculty for two decades as per the HEC’s recent survey published in 2019. The APTTA President conveyed that the TTS system was working very well before the arrival of the current Chairman HEC.

Since the current chairman took charge, universities have doubled down on violating the statutes governing the TTS system because the HEC is disowning the TTS faculty which was launched by them. Therefore, the APTTA has also demanded that the chairman HEC should ensure compliance of the

TTS statutes in the universities in true letter and spirit. In addition, the PM approved complete salary is also being not given to the TTS faculty.

APTTA cabinet has given the HEC a deadline of February 3, 2023 that HEC should withdraw the new funding policy notification issued on december 16, 2022 and restore the old funding policy.

If the chairman of the HEC fails to do so, the APTTA will stage a protest and sit-in in front of the HEC until their just demands are met.

Turkish firm completes second submarine modernisation project for Pakistan

KARACHI anadolu agency Turkish defense firm STM completed the second submarine modernization project for the Pakistan Navy, according to the firm’s press release on Wednesday.

The firm made

modernization operations of the AGOSTA 90B Class submarine, equipping it with modern and state-of-the-art systems. The submarine, named PNS/M KHALID (S-137), was delivered to Pakistan Naval Forces Command at a ceremony.

The previous submarine, named PNS/M HAMZA (S139), was delivered in April 2021.

Ozgur Guleryuz, the general manager of STM, said in the press release:

“Within the scope of the AGOSTA Modernization project, which stands out as

Turkey’s first submarine modernization engineering export project involving strategic and high-tech systems, we have successfully equipped the second submarine with modern systems after having delivered the first to the customer in 2021.”

Law officers In Punjab Advocate General office are enjoying hefty salaries ranging from Rs 0.5 to 0.6 million a month, it was revealed on Friday. The report said that number of judges in high court are 41 while sanctioned strength of law officers in Advocate General office is 98. However, after a stay order by high court number these officers has reached 150. Sources said the advocates working as law officers in Advocate General office are drawing big salaries ranging from five to six lac a month. Former chief minister Parvez Elahi had increased sanctioned strength of law officers to 98, reported added quoting sources. Now, after a stay order issued by high court, the number of law officers has gone up to 150, more than three times the number of judges. After the stay order, 150 law officers will assist 41 judges at high court as amici curiae. Ninety-eight law officers were reinstated after the stay order given by the high court. Two law officers had decided Against moving the highest court of the province for their restoration. On the other hand, at Advocate General office law officers are more in number and offices and staff for them is lesser in number. Three law officers are being accommodated in a single room.

Rangers, Police arrest two members of lyari gang in joint operation

KARACHI Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Rangers, Sindh and Police in a joint intelligence based operation arrested two alleged gangsters of Lyari gang from Mawach Goth. The accused arrested were identified as Naveed alias Kuppi alias Chotu and Noroz alias Nimmu. The spokesman for Rangers said on Friday that the arrested were involved in killings, attempted murders, extortion, kidnapping for ransom, robberies and attacks on police personnel. Naveed joined the Lyari gang of Sajid alias Sajid Golimar in 2005 while his brother-in-law Noroz joined the Lyari gang in 2019, he added. “Naveed was involved in more than 50 targeted killings of members of a political party and of rival gang. He fled to a neighbouring country during Karachi operation in 2014 to escape his arrest. “In 2021, he organized his separate gang in Old Golimar. About six cases of murders, attempt to murders and attack on police personnel were registered against the acused,” the spokesman added. “During initial interrogation, the accused arrested confessed to their involvement in a number of crimes, including extortion, kidnapping for ransom, robberies and motorcycles snatching “During 2011 and 2012, they kidnapped three traders from Soldier Bazar and Clifton areas and collected ransom of Rs 2 million. On January 18 this year, the accused arrested did aerial firing to spread fear among people in Old Golimar area with the objective of land encroachment.

UlEma UrgE SwEdEN, dUtCh govtS for PromPt aCtIoN agaINSt dESECratorS of holy QUraN

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

ULEMAMashaykh and religious scholars on Friday observed the ‘Sanctity of Quran and Namoose-Risalat Day’ and urged the governments of Sweden and Netherlands to take immediate action against those who breached the sanctity and prestige of the Holy Quran.

Addressing the public congregation at Friday Prayer across the country, they underlined the need to legislate against the perspective of international law from the forum of the United Nations against Islamophobia, besides heavenly religions and divine books.

Ulema said the desecrators had hurt the religious feelings of 1.5 billion Muslims on the globe. Islam was a religion of peace and security and the teachings of the Holy Quran was to promote peace, affection, tolerance, and harmony, they added.

They made it clear that sacrilegious remarks about the sanctity of any religion could not be termed as freedom of expression. In this regard, the leadership of Pakistan Ulema Council addressed Friday

17 Pakistanis imprisoned in India repatriated

sermons in their respective districts and divisions including Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi who is also the prime minister’s special representative for interfaith harmony and middle east, in Lahore, Maulana Dr Abu Bakar Siddique (Islamabad), Allama Abdul Haq Mujahid (Multan), Qazi Mutiullah Saeedi (Gujarat), Maulana Asadullah Farooq (Lahore), Maulana Dr Asad Zakaria (Karachi), Maulana Haq Nawaz Khalid, Maulana

Ubaidullah Gormani, Allama Tahirul Hasan (Faisalabad), Maulana Muhammad Shafi

Qasmi, Maulana Hanif Usmani (Sahiwal), Pir Asadhabib Shah Jamali, Maulana

Muhammad Asghar Khosa (Dera Ghazi

Khan), Maulana Nauman Hashir, Maulana

Tahir Aqeel Awan (Rawalpindi), Maulana

Abu Bakr Sabri, (Islamabad), Maulana

Anwar-ul-Haq Mujahid, Shabir Yusuf Gujjar, Maulana Abdul Malik Asif (Multan), Maulana Aslam Siddiqui, Maulana Abdul

Hakeem Athar, Maulana Islamuddin, Qari

Muhammad Aslam Qadri, Qari Shams-ulHaq (Lahore), Maulana Hasan Ahmad Hussaini (Diska), Maulana Muhammad

Khurshid Nomani (Bahalangar), Maulana

Abdullah Haqqani, Maulana Abdullah

Rashidi (Kasur), Mian Rashid Munir (Sialkot), Maulana Asim Shad, Maulana Abdul Waheed Farooqui (Narowal), Maulana Abu Bakar Hamza (Chakwal), Maulana Habib-ur-Rehman Abid, Maulana Tayyab Gurmani, Maulana Izhar-ul-Haq

Khalid, Sahibzada Hamza Tahir-ul-Hasan (Faisalabad), Maulana Saadullah Ludhianvi (Toba Tek Singh), Maulana Anis-ur-Rehman Baloch (Gojra), Maulana Abdul Rasheed (Hafizabad), Mufti Muhammad Umar Farooq (Khanewal), Maulana Abdul Ghaffar

Shah Hijazi (Lodhran), Maulana Tanveer Ahmed (Bahawalpur), Maulana Muhammad Ahmad Makki, Maulana Muhammad Ashfaq Patafi (Muzaffargarh), Maulana Kaleemullah Muawiya (Nankana), Maulana Azizur Rahman Muawiya (Talagung), Maulana Aziz Akbar Qasmi ( Rajanpur), Maulana Saadullah Shafiq (Rahimyar Khan), Maulana Hussain Ahmed Petitioner (Karachi), Maulana Yasir Alvi (Samandari), Qari Abdul Rauf, Maulana Matloob Mahar (Bahawalnagar), Hafiz Muhammad Talha Farooqui (Vehari), Maulana Zubair Khatana. (Gujranwala), Maulana Aqeel Zubiri (Sargodha), Qari Azizur Rehman (Leh), Maulana Atif Iqbal (Kamalia) and others. The Ulema said Allah Almighty had taken the responsibility of protecting the Holy Quran and by such blasphemous acts, the message of the Holy Quran could not be curtailed. hey said they invited all those who desecrated the Holy Quran to study the holy book and also study ‘Seerat-e-Mustafa’ of the Prophet Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him, then they would come to know that the Holy Quran was a divine command and its message was about peace, security, and moderation.

Massive anti-India protest held across Britain

LONDON Staff RepoRt

Massive protest demonstrations were held across Britain, marking India’s so-called Republic Day as Black Day.

Kashmiris, members of Sikh community, and their allies participated in the protest demos, pressing the UK government to intervene and halt the ongoing genocide in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The demonstrations were held outside the Indian High Commission in London and Indian Consulate in Birmingham.

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Seventeen Pakistani nationals imprisoned in the Indian jails were repatriated via Attari-Wagah border on Friday. According to Pakistan High Commission information on Twitter, “17 Pakistani nationals imprisoned in India were repatriated today via AttariWagah border after hectic efforts of Pakistan High Commission in India and Foreign Office and cooperation of the Indian side. Our efforts will continue to repatriate all prisoners from India on completion of their sentences, said the commission.

KC-EU holds protest camp in Brussels

BRUSSELS

Staff RepoRt

The Kashmir Council Europe (KC-EU) organized a protest camp on the occasion of Indian Republic Day in front of EU foreign ministry in Brussels, the capital of Belgium. Kashmiris, who have been suffering from Indian atrocities for the last seven decades, observe the Indian Republic Day falling on 26th January as Black Day every year. The peaceful protest camp in Brussels was headed by Chairman of KC-EU Ali Raza Syed while the participants in the camp, holding placards, called for freedom of the Kashmiris from the Indian occupation. Ali Raza Syed on the occasion said India claims to be the largest democracy of the world but it refuses the democratic rights of the people of Kashmir as atrocities against the people continue. He said, peace in Kashmir is connected to the whole region. If Kashmir is witness of peace, the whole region will be witness of peace and prosperity, he added.“On the Indian Republic Day, we simply want to convey a message to the Indian government that there is no point in glorifying democracy if people are living in miseries under the might of the gun”, he said. The KC-EU’s Chairman Ali Raza Syed urged India to stop brutalities against the Kashmiris and fulfill its promise of right to Self-determination to the people of Kashmir. He also called upon the International community to intervene to stop human rights violations in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and play its role for just settlement of the lingering Kashmir dispute. He said, India is the so-called “biggest” democracy of the world but in reality, it’s not a democracy because it is ruthlessly suppressing the democratic rights of Kashmiris and continuously killing the innocent Kashmiri people as well.

Raising slogans against the draconian laws, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act UAPA and Public Safety Act (PSA), the protesters said such laws reflect the colonial mindset of the Indian rulers.

“The black laws like the UAPA have no place in the modern and enlightened era that is the 21st century,” said Fahim Kayani, leader of Tehreek-e-Kashmir, UK. “India has been a misleading member of the comity of nations and has exploited west’s so-called war on terror to suppress the Kashmiris and other communities, especially Sikh members,” he added.

Pointing out India’s blatant misuse of

its colonial laws, the demonstrators said:

“If speaking for one’s rights is terrorism, then India’s Gandhi was the terrorist of the century.”

“Fascist Indian regime labelling Dr Asif Dar, a renowned physician, as ‘ter-

rorist’ is nothing but a move aimed at scaring Kashmiris who live in diaspora,” Kayani said. He said Dr Dar speaks against the illegal Indian occupation of Kashmir and is an ardent supporter of non-violent resistance movement to end

PTDC showcases Pakistan’s tourism potential in New York from today

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Tourism Development Cooperation (PTDC) along with other provincial and regional partners will showcase Pakistan’s rich tourism potential in the twoday ‘Travel and Adventure Show New York’, to begin from January 28 (Saturday).

According to an official source, six provincial and regional tourism departments, 20 private tour operators and hospitality companies will take part in the show, and highlight the country’s rich tourism potential for the world.

“The provincial departments taking part in the event will include Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), Tourism Development Cooperation of Punjab (TDCP), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cultural and Tourism Authority (KPCTA), Culture and Tourism Department Gilgit-Baltistan (CTDGB) and Tourism Department of Balochistan”, the source said.

At the outset, the Pakistani delegation will also participate in other sideline meetings to promote Pakistan as a tourist destination in the North American market.

“The event will provide an opportunity to showcase the great potential of Pakistan tourism industry and create linkages with the leading international players of tourism industry which will greatly help attract more tourists”, the source added.

The event will also help enhance the inflow of foreign tourists to discover the rich tourism potential of Pakistan which will contribute in the socio-economic development of the country.

Travel and Adventure Show provides a great opportunity to interact with the top international and do-

mestic travel destinations, tour operators, cruise lines and travel providers. With more than 110 events and over 18 years running, the Travel and Adventure Show series have been the go-to place for over 2.5 million travelers and over 4,500 of the world’s top destinations, tour operators, cruise lines and travel providers from around the globe.

Pakistan has a lot of potential to attract huge number of foreign tourists and expatriate Pakistanis to explore and witness the country’s culture, ecotourism and Sikh heritage.

Pakistan is undoubtedly a land of beauty which offers unmatched tourism opportunities due to its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and heritage.

illegal Indian occupation in Kashmir.

“The Indian illegal move against Dr Asif Dar is basically an expression of the long arm of the Indian state which is going after Kashmiris around the world. No civilized nation can ever think of following people in other nations… Such steps by the Indian regime are a slap on the international community as India has overstepped its mandate as a member of the comity of nations,” Kayani said.

Addressing the demonstrations, the Sikh leader Ranjit Singh Srai condemned India’s holding of Republic Day celebrations. “This day in 1950 when Indian state adopted its Constitution basically legitimized its theft of the right to self-determination from the people of Punjab and Kashmir,” Srai said He said that all the communities resisting Indian occupation of their lands should unite in action and force the international community to hold India accountable.

“For any success, grass roots momentum is needed in western nations especially Europe where the local governments must be informed of vile acts of Indian state i.e. colonial policies like in Kashmir and the Punjab,” he said.

Nazimabad residents hold protest against gas shortage

KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Protesting against non-supply of natural gas for the past several weeks in North Nazimabad neighbourhoods, the residents of localities took to streets and demanded immediate restoration of gas supply. Led by newly-elected local bodies’ representatives in the area, the residents of Wahid Colony in North Nazimabad, including women and children, staged a protest demonstration outside the Sui Southern Gas Company Ltd (SSGC) office in the neighbourhood. Carrying placards and banners and chanting slogans against the ‘injustices’, the residents demanded immediate action against those officials who had been ‘out-rightly refusing’ to fix the serious problem despite repeated complaints of the consumers. “It has been more than a month that the gas supply is totally off in this area,” said Zulfiqar Ahmed, the newly elected vice chairman of the local government in the area. “The area people have approached every relevant office of the SSGC, but no one paid any heed. The situation has forced the people to use wood or LPG cylinders as alternative fuel to gas, but not majority of residents could afford this. We receive monthly bills regularly, but no one is here to address our problems.” He rejected the SSGC claim that the supply was being ensured in particular hours as the area was without gas supply for over a month and “not for a second” they had received the gas supply.

ECP FinAlizES CodE oF ConduCt dRAFt FoR gEnERAl ElECtionS

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

tHEElection Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday has decided to consult political parties on the code of conduct draft finalised for the upcoming general elections in the country. As per details, the code of conduct draft for the next general elections in the country has been finalsied and the ECP has summoned the head of 21 political parties of the country on February 2 for consultation and seek their recommendations.

According to media reports, CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja will chair the meeting on February 2 at 2pm for which invitations to political parties including Pakistan People’s Party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Pakistan

Muslim League-Nawaz, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid, Muttahida Qaumi

Movement-Pakistan, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, Awami National Party,

Pak students to visit Japan under Japan-SAARC Program from Feb 1

ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

On the invitation by the Government of Japan, a delegation of nine Pakistani students accompanied by a supervisor will visit Japan from February 1-7, under the Japan-SAARC Network Program of people-topeople exchange known as JENESYS.

The students’ delegation comprises five undergraduate students from COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad campus, and four high school students from Westminster Academy Islamabad along with a supervisor, said a statement issued here on Friday by the Embassy of Japan.

The Embassy of Japan organised a pre-departure orientation session for the visiting delegation of students to impart necessary information and hand over travel documents to them before their departure.

On the occasion, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Mitsuhiro Wada congratulated the young students upon their selection for the youth exchange program which, he said, will be a lifetime opportunity for the young minds to learn more about Japan. While emphasizing the importance of people-topeople exchange, the ambassador stated that the exchange of people especially the youth was “probably the most productive and fruitful way” to further deepen the relations between the two countries. Expressing his best wishes, Wada hoped that the visiting Pakistani students, besides fostering friendships with the Japanese youth, will find ample opportunities to learn and enjoy the life, culture, and historical heritage of Japan during their stay in the country.

Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) is a youth exchange program between Japan and the Asia Pacific region launched by the Japanese Government aimed to reaffirm and strengthen mutual trust and understanding among the people of Japan and participating countries.

Under the JENESYS 2022 program, participants from SAARC countries during their stay in Japan will be provided opportunities to learn and deepen further their understanding of Japan’s cutting-edge technologies, economy, and society and also experience Japan’s traditional culture by participating in various lectures and visits, it added.

This year under the JENESYS 2022 program, a total of 70 high school students and undergraduate students from SAARC countries have been invited by the Japanese government for participating in this shortterm invitation.

Man kills wife using rifle of Vdg member in Poonch

JAMMU Staff RepoRt

Balochistan National Party, Awami Muslim League, Jamhoori Wattan Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, Jamaate-Islami, Pashtunkhwa PKMAP, Raahe-Haq, Pakistan Muslim League-Functional and others. Earlier, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) wrote letters to Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) governors regarding the holding of elections in both provinces.

The ECP in its letters to Punjab and KP governors has suggested dates for holding elections in both provinces. The ECP has recommended Governor Baligh ur Rehman to hold elections in Punjab between April 09 to 13.

Similarly, the election body has recommended the KP governor for holding elections in the province between April 15 to 17, according to the ECP letter.

Elahi apologises to Fawad Chaudhry’s brother over diatribe

LAHORE Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Muslim League Quaid (PML-Q) leader and former chief minister Chaudhry Pervez Elahi on Friday apologised for passing hurtful comments against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senior VicePresident Fawad Chaudhry. Chaudhry Parvez Elahi apologised to the family of PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry for his hurtful statement over his arrest.Ex- CM held a telephonic conversation with Fawad Chaudhry’s brother Faisal Fareed stated ‘sorry’ for hurting the sentiments of his family.

On Thursday, Mr Elahi in veil words cheered the arrest of Mr

Chaudhry, who was taken into custody for threatening remarks against officials of the electoral body earlier this week, at an event in Lahore. Without naming anyone, he remarked things would have been better had the arrest been made earlier.

An audio conversation purportedly between the former CM and an unidentified person also emerged yesterday wherein the former could be heard abusing Fawad Chaudhry for advocating the dissolution of the Punjab Assembly.

Soon after his comments, the PML-Q leader felt regret as he shared a tweet on Thursday night to express apology for what he said against the PTI bigwig. Now,

Ex- CM held a telephonic conversation with Fawad Chaudhry’s brother Faisal Fareed stated ‘sorry’ for hurting the sentiments of his family. The former chief minister also condemned the arrest of the PTI leader in a fake case. He also expressed solidarity with the family of Mr Chaudhry. In reply, Mr Fareed appreciated the big heartedness of the former CM, saying: “You are our elder and we see you as a respectable person”.

Earlier, the PML-Q leader took to Twitter to apologise for his comments saying he has old ties with Fawad’s family. He added that his remarks hurt the sentiments of Fawad’s family for which he is sorry.

MCC Gwadar surpasses customs duty target; collects Rs7b

GWADAR

Staff RepoRt

Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar has collected Rs7 billion in the form of customs duty during JulyJanuary (2022-23) as compared to the assigned target of Rs5 billion, reflecting an extraordinary increase of Rs2 billion.

Like every year before, Pakistan Customs (FBR) celebrated International Customs Day, 2023 by holding a dignified ceremony at Customs House, Gwadar on 26th January 2023.

Collector Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar Raza Dashti said Thursday that the historic revenue of Rs7 billion customs duties has been collected during the first seven months of the current fiscal year due to the anti-smuggling efforts, trade facilitation and recovery of arrears. However, the total collection of all kinds of duties and taxes stood at Rs17.5 billion during the period under review.

Collector of customs MCC Gwadar and a large

number of customs officers were presented on the occasion. After that, a huge quantity of narcotics and other contraband goods including 295kg narcotics, 7,700kg charas, 9,000 beer cans, and 4,400 liquor bottles were destroyed.

Addressing the gathering, Collector Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar Raza Dashti stated that Pakistan Customs remains at the frontline at borders, seaports, airports, and on the highways to safeguard our country from the menace of smuggling of contrabands, drugs, currency, liquor, pornography etc. “We lead our country’s efforts in combating commercial cargo smuggling to protect our industry and hence secure jobs.”

He said that Customs’ role was constantly evolving and Pakistan Customs had been up to the mark in responding to the changing nature of border management. “Pakistan Customs is serving as the guardian of Pakistan’s borders against the movement of contraband goods, as well as, a major revenue contributing agency,” he added.

World hydrology expert from US visits RUDA

LAHORE

The Landscape Architect from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA Dr James L. Wescoat along with delegation from LUMS called on CEO RUDA Imran Amin on Friday.

Dr James L Wescoat is famous for his multidisciplinary study of climate risks in Indus River Basin, water management, multilateral water treaties, political economies of landscape change, water-energy food nexus and Mughal era architecture in Subcontinent. Being an academician, author and expert on hydrology, he has shown keen interest in understanding the RUDA as the world’s

largest waterscape initiative.

Director Hydrology Mohsin Atiq gave a comprehensive presentation covering the complete ambit of hydrological, ecological and environmental aspect of the overall concept of the upcoming new city by the river.

River Ravi is now not part of Lahore’s Sociology, therefore Mr Mohsin explained that aim of RUDA is to rejuvenate, reintroduce and enliven the River Ravi with all of its lost biodiversity and connection to the people.

Dr James asked questions about the channel migration, future barrages and their operational curves, the riparian ecosystem, algae bloom in standing water, flood plain management and non-structural measures for water management.

Mohsin Atiq explained these concepts as being already engrained in the RUDA masterplan. He categorically elaborated that all the concerns are pre-hand researched and incorporated, rather the technical tweaking and corrections are undergoing every now and then by modelling and building different operational scenarios. CEO Imran Amin adding to the discourse, commented that urban development is the second principle, first is the resuscitation of environment and ecology that is why the RUDA Act and 2016 Punjab Flood Plains Regulations are aimed at same trajectory. He said RUDA is answer to the sociohydrology of Ravi where over a period of time around 1 lac low-cost houses will be built through RUDA’s own CSR funds. It is

In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, a woman was killed, today, when she was hit with a bullet fired by her husband from a rifle belonging to the member of Indian army-backed Village Defence Guards (VDG) in Poonch. The incident took place in Surankote area of the district. A police officer told media men that the information was received through reliable sources that a woman was killed due to bullet wounds while her husband was arrested and the weapon, a rifle of the VDG member, has been seized.

Pertinently, over 5,000 members of the VDGs, majority of them Hindus, have been given rifles and more are queuing up to get arms in various districts of Jammu region in the last few days. There are around 28,000 VDGs in the Jammu region. As the weapons have been issued to the VDG members without any regulations and control mechanism, mishandling and misuse of guns remain a matter of serious concern. There are more than 200 FIRs related to the cases of murder, rape, rioting and drugs registered against the VDG members in various districts.

Fawad Ch sent to jail as court rejects extension in remand

cOntInUED fROM pAGE 01

A first information report was registered against the PTI leader at the Kohsar police station in Islamabad on the complaint of Secretary of the Election Commission Umar Hameed.

The FIR has been registered with sections 153-A (promotion of enmity between groups), 506 (criminal intimidation), 505 (statement conducing to public mischief), and 124-A (sedition) of the Pakistan Penal Code at Islamabad’s Kohsar Police Station.

It stated that Fawad, in a speech outside PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s house, threatened the ECP and said that “those who become part of the caretaker government [in Punjab] will be pursued until they are punished”.

Later in a tweet, the Islamabad police said that Fawad tried to “incite violence against a constitutional institution” and “inflame the sentiments of the people”. It added that the case will be processed as per the law.

Bail plea in sedition case: On the other hand, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry filed a post-arrest bail plea in the district and sessions court in a sedition case filed against him. The development comes as a judicial magistrate in the federal capital sent the former information minister to the Adiala Jail on 14-day judicial remand after rejecting a prosecution plea for extension in physical remand of Mr Chaudhry.

Earlier, the counsel for the PTI leader moved the court of Judicial Magistrate Waqas Ahmed Raja for post-arrest bail. However, the judge refused to hear the case, saying it did not fall under his jurisdiction. Later, a petition was filed in the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Faizan Haider Gillai who has issued notices to the parties and adjourned hearing till Saturday (today).

The bail petition states that Fawad Ch: “has falsely been involved in the instant case by the complainant with the malafide intention and ulterior motives just to harass, pressurize and blackmail the present petitioner, whereas, the allegations leveled in the FIR are absolutely false, frivolous and baseless and the petitioner is quite innocent. Moreover, the petitioner has no link or concern with the commission of alleged offence”.

not going to be a city for rich, it is going to be city for all with the revival spirit of Lahore.

He further emphasized that through water treatment plant, waste disposal and planting forests, a change will be brought.

The model for all the developments and ecological innovations will be based on efficiency rather than the mere technology.

Dr James alluding about master plan of RUDA asked about the flood management mechanism. The CEO explained the same by juxtaposing with complete geomorphology of RUDA area as against the masterplan and commented that despite all the studies, crystallization of plans, still the masterplan is flexible to the changes as dictated by further scientific studies, laws governing the nature,

climate or scenario modelling.

It is pertinent to note that number of RUDA officials attended this session and participated by giving their inputs wherever required.

Dr James appreciated the efforts put-in by RUDA’s experts by working at the minutest details through different studies. He thanked CEO Imran Amin for providing him this opportunity to have reviewed the world’s largest riverfront project. He also offered his technical expertise and guidance whenever it is solicited.

At the end, CEO Imran Amin assured that all measures will be taken to make this project a success as no other option has left to safe Lahore from its future water, environmental and ecological vows.

Staff RepoRt

Punjab caretakers

The most important task is the holding of fresh elections

CAReTAKeR Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi accomplished his first task on Thursday when he had an eight-member caretaker Cabinet take oath on Thursday, four days after his appointment. The caretaker Punjab government, as defined by a court judgement, is thus complete. however, it has been made public that Mr Wahab Riaz, the Pakistan fast bowler, will also be Sports Minister, and will take oath when he comes home from Bangladesh, where he is presently playing for the Khulna Tigers in the ongoing 2020 Bangladesh Premier League. he is 37, and has not played international cricket since December 2020, when he played in a T20 International, while he played his last Test in October 2018. he is the first former Test player after Mr Imran Khan himself to enter politics. It was also noticeable that Mr Naqvi inducted fellow media mogul Amir Mir into the Cabinet as Information Minister. Mir Mir, after a long career in print journalism, was associated with Googly News, a web TV channel, while Mr Naqvi started with CNN until establishing his own media group.

Mr Naqvi has got problems with the PTI, which has reacted very negatively to his appointment. he was named by the election Commission of Pakistan, which the PTI does not like, and it has filed a petition for his removal before the Supreme Court, as has former federal minister Sh Rashid Ahmed. Mr Naqvi’s candidature became clear when he was nominated by the Punjab Leader of the opposition. The first two stages of the caretaker CM-appointing process then went by, as neither the outgoing CM and Opposition Leader carried out any consultations, nor did the joint committee agree on a name. The Constitution then makes the eCP make the choice.

Perhaps the main task of the Naqvi government is to hold fresh elections on time. No date has been announced, which has given rise to concern, the PTI alleging that Mr Naqvi has been inducted to delay elections. It also alleges he is out to persecute it, an allegation strengthened by the arrest of PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry. Then elections might clash with Ramzan, and there is also the problem that the results of the census may be out by then. Mr Naqvi and his team have a hard task ahead, and only the holding of fresh elections, and on time, can give the lie this critics.

Arif Nizami (Late)

Season of arrests

ian pension pool.

POLITICAL turmoil is reaching a crescendo. The Pakistan Tehrik Insaf (PTI) is yelling and screaming for finding the date of early general elections. To achieve this end, the party is ready to cross all red lines.

On January 25, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry was arrested for threatening members of Pakistan’s election Commission and their families with dire consequences. Though he issued the threat conditionally with the utterance of “if”, the threat was there to annoy the recipients. Chaudhry has been served with charges of sedition.

The deeper malaise is that the PTI, which was a beneficiary of the bias of the State institutions, now considers that it is a victim of the same partiality. The PTI seems to have been sucked in by the bias catch. The PTI assumes that the State’s institutions, which were pro-PTI in the past, have turned against the party. Under the spell of this assumption, the PTI is out to oppose every institution which it suspects to have been working against it. The list is getting longer and longer.

Post-2017 politics is the politics of turmoil. The fallacious desire of the Army to manipulate the political chessboard to its benefit has impaired both society and politics. Society has got divided, while politics has got ruined. Perhaps, this time, society is reacting more than politics to the perpetrators of turmoil. The way Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa was trolled on social media is indicative of the fact that the compulsory relationship between the Army and society stands fractured. emotive rhymes and songs to infuse nationalistic spirit in the heeding youth have foundered on the touchstone of reality: the Army plays with sentiments of the masses.

It is apparent that the IMF is demanding reforms imposed from inside. In case of declaring economic default, the IMF would foist reforms from outside, as the IMF bailout has done to Sri Lanka by necessarily forcing the country to reduce its Army by a half. The downsizing is taking place gradually to be completed by 2030. Pakistan is refusing to learn the realities of the present age. Pakistan has to reduce non-developmental expenditures of all sorts to meet the developmental needs of its growing population. Pakistan needs investment in the development of infrastructure, besides promotion of education and provision of health services. At the same time, Pakistan has to control its population as well. For that, Pakistan has to soothe its religious schools which oppose family planning.

The challenge before the incumbent government is that, in the recent past (say, after 2014), the way the Army’s intelligence agencies supported religious elements to choke the streets to embarrass or topple the civilian governments,and nw refuses to leave.

Religious elements are now a palpable reality to stay for a long time.

Any measure of family planning is bound to invite repercussions for the government which introduces it publicly. In other words, a gulf of mistrust between the ruling government (or between any ruling civilian government) and the Army exists. That is, any Army general can get involved in wearying a given civilian government by inciting religious elements against the family planning policies of the government. Whereas the Aeneral would go scot-free, the government would suffer. Pakistan has been caught in this dilemma.

The mistrust between civilians and the AQrmy pops up in several spheres. For instance, the existing dissonance between the PTI and the election Commission can be fathomed in the context aired by the PTI that the Commission’s chairman was proposed by the Aarmy (read, General Bajwa), and that the Chairman must be acting at the behest of the Army. hence, the primary conflict is between the PTI and the Army, whereas the election Commission has been caught in the crossfire.

February may deepen the season of arrests just because the PTI is bound to question the intent and action of every State institution. The PTI has its own style of discrediting its supposed opponent. That is, by casting aspersions, flinging allegations and hurling threats.

how the State’s institutions lose credibility in the sight of the masses. At that time, the PTI was at the helm of affairs. The State’s institutions, including the ANF, tried to move events in the favour of the PTI.

Founding Editor M.

Yousaf Nizami Editor

Editor

Just to rectify the foregoing statement, in addition to society and politics, one can include the economy, the third area that has got damaged. This time the harm is to the infuriation of the Army. It is heard that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has refused to be flexible on its conditions, which would coerce Pakistan into reducing its non-developmental expenditures including the budgetary allocation earmarked for the Army. For instance, pensions of retired Army personnel (both officers and soldiers) should be paid from the defence expenditures and not from the civil-

Fixing the Energy Mix

The recent global energy supply and demand issue caused by the Russia-Ukraine situation has led to an abrupt shift toward balancing the use of available energy resources. The West has accelerated turning to renewable energy along with non-renewable sources by focusing on diversifying its energy mix. According to an International energy Agency (IeA) report, the total amount of renewable energy added globally between 2016 and 2021 was 1,282 GW (gigawatts), and this is expected to greatly increase to around 2,400 GW between 2022 and 2027. While proponents of renewable energy are pushing for greener energy sources, states like Germany and Japan are exploring ways to balance their energy mix by utilising cleaner energy sources.

In Pakistan, non-renewable energy accounts for 59 percent of power generation and renewable energy only 2.4 percent; it is critical to focus on diversifying energy sources. While renewable energy is the preferred option, Pakistan can also consider clean energy under both renewable and non-renewable categories by focusing on cost-effective projects utilising hydro, coal, and nuclear resources. hydropower is a significant source of clean energy in Pakistan, and its overall contribution to electricity generation has decreased over time. The maintenance and renovation of existing hydropower facilities and infrastructure have become a challenge due to low water levels, lack of grid maintenance facilities, and alternative power reserves. however, Pakistan is working on various macro- and micro-hydropower projects, including the Kohala hydropower Project (1124MW), the Diamer-Basha Dam (4,500MW capacity), the Duber Khwar hydropower Project (40MW), the Kurram Tangi Dam hydropower Project (110MW), and the Golen Gol

hydropower Project (110MW). These initiatives demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix. hydel power projects require a sizeable investment and in the case of Pakistan, financial constraints limit the possibility of expansion in hydro. It is nonetheless important to focus on the long-term agenda and incorporate clean energy projects in sources that are widely available within the country.

Coal is considered a low-cost energy source in Pakistan, and coal-based power production has increased over the past five years. In FY16, about 2.2 percent of

The Army did not spare any instance to reinforce the mistrust. For instance, the way (run by a major general) the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) sprang into expressing bias against Rana Sanaullah (who is now the Interior Minister) indicated the way institutions were working politically, beyond their constitutional mandate. In July 2019, the ANF claimed to have recovered 15 kg of heroin from Sanaullah’s vehicle. The punishment for the charges, if proven correct, was the death penalty or life imprisonment. Sanaullah was lucky to have escaped the attempt. Nevertheless, the attempt tarnished the image and credibility of the uniform running the ANF. In fact, it was a heinous crime committed by the ANF.

Nobody has held the ANF to account. Whereas the police are notorious for staging fake police encounters, the ANF has earned notoriety for registering fake drug smuggling cases. This is an example of

electricity was generated using coal, which rose to 24 percent in FY21. The Thar coalfield holds the 16th largest coal reserves in the world, with 97 percent of it being lignite, and the remaining 3 percent being classified as bituminous and subbituminous. The National electric Power Regulatory Authority (NePRA) is focusing on converting imported coal-based power stations to Thar coal without modifying the plants. The use of coal is hazardous to the environment.

A working paper from the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) indicates that the world is moving towards the use of low-emission and higher-efficiency power plants. Countries such as Germany, Poland, and Japan have achieved efficiencies of 40 percent and above in their coal-fired power plants. China has also invested in clean coal technology by implementing the use of supercritical and ultra-supercritical plants that use carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to decrease emissions from coal-fired power plants.

The ThalNova Thar Power Plant is a 330 MW coalfired power project that is based on Thar coal and is part of the China-Pakistan economic Corridor (CPeC) initiative. The government needs to ensure that China builds and operates these coal power plants using the same technology and efficiency standards. Dr. Samar Mobarakmand, a scientist and head of the Thar Coal Power Project, has focused on plans for a power generation project through gasification aimed at cutting down on negative environmental impact.

Coal gasification takes coal and turns it into something similar to natural gas. It is considered cleaner than

Now, in 2023, the situation is different. This is why, owing to its past experience of enjoying the gains of bias, the PTI sees a hand of conspiracy in any act that militates against it. The PTI thinks that the State’s institutions cannot work as per the given constitutional mandate. Instead, they mould their mandate and work to appease the sitting government.

February may deepen the season of arrests just because the PTI is bound to question the intent and action of every State’s institution. The PTI has its own style of discrediting its supposed opponent. That is, by casting aspersions, flinging allegations and hurling threats. This is where the red line would be deemed to have been crossed.

The writer can be reached at qaisarrashid@yahoo.com

coal because part of the process— called Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle, or IGCC— removes some of the pollutants that make coal a public health hazard. In order to mitigate environmental hazards, the government should also focus on reducing emissions from the three major industries that contribute to CO2 emissions— specifically cement (49 percent), power (28 percent), and brick kilns (22 percent).

Pakistan is also currently utilising nuclear power as part of its energy policy, but it only accounts for a mere eight percent of the country’s overall power generation. The government is implementing plans to establish nuclear energy plants as clean energy projects that comply with IAeA regulations. Similar to Japan and Germany, Pakistan is also exploring ways to prevent energy shortages by restarting initiatives for nuclear energy as a clean source. By investing in research and development for small modular reactors, thorium-based reactors, and fastbreeder reactors, Pakistan has the potential to generate more efficient and less wasteful nuclear energy. however, it requires international assistance to gain access to advanced technologies and fully tap the potential of clean nuclear energy.

In the short term, with LNG not an accessible option due to massive european demand, nor expensive fuel imports due to depleting foreign reserves and a chronic circular payment issue, it is prudent to encourage and push non-industrial sectors like agriculture, offices, and residential units toward renewable energy sources— ideally solar installations.

In the immediate and short-term, utilising easily accessible indigenous energy sources like coal while adhering to strict emissions standards could offer stability for a while. even Germany has resorted to firing up coal power plants as a response to sharp rises in energy prices.

From a long-term point of view, the government should address issues in the production, transmission, and distribution networks to enhance the efficiency of the grid. The focus should be on reducing energy imports and prioritising domestic energy resources like solar, hydel, coal and nuclear in order to produce clean energy.

Sabina Babar is a researcher at the Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, Pakistan. She may be reached at casslahore@gmail.com

sabina baber

From a long-term point of view, the government should address issues in the production, transmission, and distribution networks to enhance the efficiency of the grid. The focus should be on reducing energy imports and prioritising domestic energy resources like solar, hydel, coal and nuclear in order to produce clean energy

Dr Qaisar rashiD

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

The PTI is no longer a beneficiary of the State’s favour

Indian strategic desires in the region and the role of Pakistan

last two decades have been a turning point in Indo-US relations.India has been blue-eyed for the USA since the era of the junior Bush.President George W.Bush signed a civil nuclear deal in 2008, which was very concerning for Pakistan, and this deal imbalanced the Southern Asia region.

In the last days of President Obama, the US Administration declared India a“Major Defence Partner”. however, President Trump continued this policy, and played his role in strengthening this partnership. The USA changed the name of the US Pacific Command in 2018, and renamed it “U.S Indo-Pacific Command,” which was a major shift in US policy, and India gained more leverage.

nese hegemony, and surrender all disputed areas to China, 2. It can remain standing up against China, but for this it needs to build strategic alliances with like-minded Western countries.

China has concerns over QUAD, and Indian activities in this region to counter China. India is presenting itself as a tool of Western powers, but has maintained its defence relations with Russia. The USA imposed sanctions on Turkey for purchasing the S-400 defence system, but not India, because the USA needs India against China.

Editor’s mail

KP students’ anxiety

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government had changed the schedule of annual summer and winter vacations in academic institutions during the active phase of Covid pandemic which was understandable at the time, but now there is need to revisit the matter.

Continuing with the decision, which was taken under specific circumstances for specific reasons, may have a devastating effect on the mental health of students. Those who are day scholars may not have to face much of an issue, but those living in hostels are suffering because the vacations have either been abolished or severely curtailed.

Most such students had been waiting for the vacations and planning to meet their families, but they are in despair as they cannot do that due to the decision of some officials who had no idea of the repercussions of such a move. Many of the students in hostels are living under stress that may lead to burnout. The provincial government should reconsider its decision which will be greatly appreciated by a large number of students who would be able to spend time with their families after which they would be able to resume their studies with a mind totally refreshed.

ANAS TARIQ KURRAM

Windows of hope

INTeNSIVe care unit (ICU) is one of the most demanding places and a leading cause of financial burden as it requires high use of resources and expenditure. Confined to a single bed in a single setting filled with noises of ventilator alarms, smells of the antiseptic, pain of intravenous lines, ICU-induced myopathies and hallucinations make life tough. What makes all this even more depressing is the lack of natural light in an ICU which leads to delirium and depression.

What may work as a blessing for patients in an ICU is a window, which may allow natural light to shine through the glass into the room. By promoting daytime wakeup and nightly sleep, natural light from a window can help maintain or restore circadian rhythms. I have often observed that whenever my patients get extubated, what makes them happy and comfortable the most is the idea of regaining mobilisation and the first thing they want to do is to sit by a window. Subsequently, they spend some time with their families in the outdoors, feeling the sunlight, the breeze, and the visible greenery that together reduce their stress level, and give them the hope that a return to their happy, healthy lives is a possibility. That is why I call every window in the hospital a ‘window of hope’ which reassures the patients that there is still light despite all the apparent darkness.

NIDA RIZVI KARACHI

Empty-handed locals

MuhaMMaD aDan nisar

The Cold War’s dynamics have changed. The Cold War between China and the USA) is an economic competition, not a military. China is emerging as a superpower, expanding economically in and across the region, while the USA still believes in military power. The USA is a part of a quadrilateral alliance consisting of the USA, India, Japan, and Australia, to deter China. This alliance is called the QUAD or the Asian NATO.

The shift in global politics has occurred due to competition between China and the USA. India is a regional power, and is in competition with China. The USA and India are coming close strategically after the collapse of the USSR because the USA sees India as a strategic bulwark against China.

India is becoming the main player in the competition between the USA and China because India needs strategic support to counter Chinese influence and hegemony in the himalayan region. Russia and India have been strategic partners since the era of the USSR. Russia supplies more than 60 percent of the equipment in the Indian armed forces, and India has to rely on Russia for upgradation and spare parts of military equipment.

India had adopted a “Forward Policy” towards China since the time of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, which meant the aggressive patrolling of Indian troops in the disputed area between China and India, and the underestimation of Beijing. Due to this, India went to war with China in 1962. The clear evidence about Indian policy is the henderson-Brooks report that the war between China and India could have been avoided if Indian generals had wisely advisedthe political leadership. The cause of the Indian defeat was poor military advice, a gain of the disputed area, underestimation of China, political mileage, interference of bureaucrats, and military shortcomings.

The world was divided into blocs during the Cold War era. India never joined any bloc. however, India’s tilt was towards the USSR, and it maintained cordial relations with the USA. The

Skirmish between China and India occurred in Ladakh, and caused casualties on both sides in 2020. however, people have yet to learn about the actual figure of casualties. Both countries went to the worst form of relations.

After the Ladakh incident in 2020, Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh visited Moscow to attend the 75th Victory Day parade commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany. Mr Singh settled a defense deal with his Russian counterpart that India would get fighter jets (Su-30s) and other arms from Russia for $2.4 billion.

China and Russia are binding themselves in strategic relations to counter US hegemony in this region. China has already bought the Russian S-400 Defense system, and deployed it. however, India signed a defense deal with Russia to acquire five squadrons of S400 for $5.4 billion in 2018. India has received 36 Rafale fighter jets from France for more than $30 billion to balance air capabilities with China. however, the USA has concerns over Russian equipment hacking because the USA is providing arms and sensitive technology to India. India has acquired the first squadron of the S-400 Defense system from Russia, and deployed it in Punjab near Pakistan, covering areas of Punjab, Gilgit Baltistan, Azad and Jammu Kashmir, which will push other countries into a race to acquire the latest defense system and equipment to defend their sovereignty.

Pakistan is a very responsible state, and defensive in its approach, and keeps its eyes on the Indian hegemonic approach. The brutal Indian attitude will generate a new arms race, which will become a security threat to the peace of this region. All major powers support India against China and Pakistan to make it the Asian tiger in this great game, but neglecting peace in this region will bring catastrophic changes.

India is very balanced in its foreign policy towards Russia and the USA. however, India is shifting its defence policy from Russia to the West, and going slowly in the camp of the West to deter China, but not keeping all eggs in the bucket of the USA. India is very aggressive in its policy towards China and Pakistan. however, it is not capable of countering Chinese hegemony in this region. It wants its hegemony in the region and across it. Pakistan is the main obstacle to Indian hegemony, and is a big thorn against India. India thinks that it can contest itself on two fronts with China and Pakistan.

Pakistan is a very responsible state, and defensive in its approach, and keeps its eyes on the Indian hegemonic approach. The brutal Indian attitude will generate a new arms race, which will become a security threat to the peace of this region. All major powers support India against China and Pakistan to make it the Asian tiger in this great game, but neglecting peace in this region will bring catastrophic changes.

Pakistan desires to maintain the balance of power with India to bring peace. It also aspires to keep a balanced approach towards China and the USA because the USA considers Pakistan a good customer for its arms, and an important ally in the war against terrorism, which the USA does not consider to be over. China also maintains a cordial relationship with Pakistan as an important strategic partner; however, Pakistan should play a mediating role between China and the USA. Peace in this region is inevitable without bringing both Chinese and Indian together.

ACCORDING to media reports, there have been discoveries of massive granite deposits in Karoonjhar and those of oil and gas in Sanghar. This is in addition to the gas deposits in Khairpur Mirs, Ghotki and Dadu. All this is naturally good for the country, but what is depressing is the fact that the local people in such areas get a meagre share in the employment opportunities that stem from such discoveries.

Recently, 2,500 employees were sacked illegally without even a showcause notice, which was a grave violation of laws governing such activities. Most of these people were eligible for regularisation, but were, instead, shown the door. The management of the relevant gas distribution company operating in the region intentionally picked local people who had by then already served the company for up to 5-10 years.

In their place, non-local individuals were hired. The termination orders were clearly designed to reduce the number of local employees. Such a situation leaves the locals empty-handed.

Dying dolphins

ReCeNTLY, a dead Indus dolphin was found floating in Dadu Canal. Blind dolphins are rare mammals and the second most endangered species in the world. They are found in waters between Guddu and Sukkur barrages located in the lower Indus River reach. Around 20 Indus dolphins reportedly die each year. however, the number might be more as most such cases go undetected or unreported.

It is the prime responsibility of the Sindh Wildlife Department to protect endangered species. Despite receiving World Bank funds for the conservation of Indus dolphins, the department concerned has failed to perform its duty properly.

The population of Indus blind dolphin was 1,419 as per the survey conducted by said department in 2019 based on naked-eye sightings, which is definitely not a reliable methodology and effective technique. Alternatively, a survey conducted by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Pakistan, reported 1,075 dolphins between Guddu and Sukkur barrages in 2017. It is important to conduct census on an yearly basis through a super survey both upstream and downstream to keep a record of the population of blind dolphins. Analytical methods, like the Zero-truncated Poisson-log Normal estimator (ZPNe), should be used for the task so that the total number of marked and unmarked dolphins may be counted.

Gillnet, overfishing and illegal fishing practices should be stopped immediately and the water from upstream dams should be released immediately by the Indus River System Authority (Irsa) for the survival of these innocent creatures.

A thorough scientific study should be conducted to find out why dolphins are dying in Dadu Canal and elsewhere. In this connection, robust monitoring of the dolphin population should be done by international experts. Further, the authorities concerned should curtail anthropogenic events that put additional burden on the Indus River’s biodiversity, particularly related to the blind dolphins.

1. It can accept Chi-

The World Atlas published the list of arms importing countries in 2019. India was on the top, spending almost $18. 2 billion in 2019. India has only two options at this point.

The writer is graduate in Diplomacy & Strategic Studies (DSS) from University of the Punjab, Lahore, and is associated with the Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad (ISSI).

Moreover, the existing coordination and collaboration involving federal, Punjab and Sindh officials must be improved to ensure the availability of the required water level downstream for Indus dolphins and other species.

MANSOOR UL HAQUE SOLANGI KARACHI

OVER TWO DECADES, US’S GLOBAL WAR ON TERROR HAS TAKEN NEARLY 1 MILLION LIVES AND COST $8 TRILLION

THE COSTS OF WAR PROJECT’S LATEST ESTIMATES HOLD THAT 897,000 TO 929,000 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN KILLED DURING THE WARS. OF THOSE KILLED, 387,000 ARE CATEGORIZED AS CIVILIANS, 207,000 AS MEMBERS OF NATIONAL MILITARY AND POLICE FORCES, AND A FURTHER 301,000 AS OPPOSITION FIGHTERS KILLED BY US-LED COALITION TROOPS AND THEIR ALLIES

interCept

MURTAzA HUSSAIN

ThE Us-LED global war on terror has killed nearly 1 million people globally and cost more than $8 trillion since it began two decades ago. These staggering figures come from a landmark report issued Wednesday by Brown University’s Costs of War Project, an ongoing research effort to document the economic and human impact of post-9/11 military operations.

The report — which looks at the tolls of wars waged in Iraq, syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, somalia, and other regions where the U.s. is militarily engaged — is the latest in a series published by the Costs of War Project and provides the most extensive public accounting to date of the consequences of open-ended U.s. conflicts in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, referred to today as the “forever wars.”

“It’s critical we properly account for the vast and varied consequences of the many U.s. wars and counterterror operations since 9/11, as we pause and reflect on all of the lives lost,” said the project’s co-director, Neta Crawford, in a press release accompanying the report. “Our accounting goes beyond the Pentagon’s numbers because the costs of the reaction to 9/11 have rippled through the entire budget.”

The staggering economic costs of the war on terror pale in comparison to the direct human impact, measured in people killed, wounded, and driven from their homes. The Costs of War Project’s latest estimates hold that 897,000 to 929,000 people have been killed during the wars. Of those killed, 387,000 are categorized as civilians, 207,000 as members of national military and police forces, and a further 301,000 as opposition fighters killed by U.s.-led coalition troops

and their allies. The report also found that around 15,000 U.s. military service members and contractors have been killed in the wars, along with a similar number of allied Western troops deployed to the conflicts and several hundred journalists and humanitarian aid workers.

The question of how many people have lost their lives in the post-9/11 conflicts has been the subject of ongoing debate, though the numbers in all cases have been extraordinarily high. Previous Costs of War studies have put death toll figures in the hundreds of thousands, an estimate tallying those directly killed by violence. According to a 2015 estimate from the Nobel Prize-winning Physicians for social Responsibility, well over 1 million have been killed both indirectly and directly in wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan alone. The difficulty of calculating death tolls is made harder by the U.s. military’s own refusal to keep track of the number of people killed in its operations, as well as the remoteness of the regions where many of the conflicts take place.

Like its previous studies, the death toll calculated by the Costs of War Project focuses only on deaths directly caused by violence during the global war on terror and does not include “indirect deaths, namely those caused by loss of access to food, water, and/or infrastructure, war-related disease” that have resulted from the conflicts. The report’s footnotes also state that “some of the people classified as opposition fighters may actually have been civilians as well, since there are political incentives to classify the dead as militants rather than civilians” — a caveat that dovetails with the U.s. government’s own confessed practice of labeling any “military-age males” killed in its operations as combatants unless proved otherwise. such practices have continued across multiple administrations. A recent investigation from the military-focused news site Connecting Vets included leaked video and accounts from the 2019 drone campaign in helmand province in Afghanistan. The story

included testimony from former drone operators who said that they had been given the green light to kill anyone seen holding a walkie-talkie or wearing a tactical vest in the province, which had poor security and lacked reliable cell phone service. For some U.s. officials licensed to authorize drone strikes, frustrated by their inability to achieve strategic victory or even favorable negotiating terms with the Taliban, the “metric for success was racking up a body count.”

The Costs of War Project report states that its findings about deaths in the wars are conservative, leaving many still uncounted. Although nearly 1 million people can be said with confidence to have been killed since the global war on terror began, even that staggering figure is, in the words of Crawford, the project co-director, “likely a vast undercount of the true toll these wars have taken on human life.”

ECONOMIC COSTS: The economic costs tallied by the Costs of War report include $2.3 trillion spent by the U.s. government on military operations in Afghanistan and Pakistan, $2.1 trillion in Iraq and syria, and $355 billion in somalia and other regions of Africa. An additional $1.1 trillion has been spent on domestic security measures in the United states since 2001, bringing direct expenditures from the war on terror at home and abroad to an astronomical $5.8 trillion.

Even that, however, does not represent the full expenses imposed by the wars. Tens of thousands of U.s. soldiers have returned from foreign war zones maimed and traumatized, turning many into long-term dependents of the federal government. The cost of providing disability and medical care for these veterans is likely to exceed $2.2 trillion by 2050 from its current post-9/11 total of $465 billion, bringing the total economic bill of the wars to $8 trillion.

The report compiles several different sources to give a total for how much the post-9/11 wars have cost, including appropriations for war-related expenses by the de-

partments of Defense and state; increases to the Defense Department’s baseline operating budget; interest payments spent on borrowing; money obligated for future Veterans Affairs services; and Department of homeland security spending for preventing and responding to terrorist attacks. Even this thorough accounting does not give the full picture of U.s. expenditures: The report’s total figure of $8 trillion does not include money spent on war zone humanitarian assistance and economic development, nor does it factor in future interest payments that will be incurred on the massive deficit spending used to pay for the wars.

Many will find the astronomical financial cost of the global war on terror galling, not just because of how relatively little it has produced in return, but also because of the discrepancy between what the current price tag of the wars has run and what U.s. officials initially claimed would be required. The war in Iraq provides one sobering example. In september 2002, Lawrence Lindsey, then-chief economic adviser under President George W. Bush, estimated that the “upperbound” expenses for the looming invasion and occupation would run between $100 and $200 billion. Later that year, Mitch Daniels, then-director of the Office of Management and Budget, provided an even more humble estimate of the costs, saying that war in Iraq would likely run U.s. taxpayers between $50 and $60 billion.

“MILLIONS OF LIVES AND TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS LATER, WHO HAS WON?” In reality, the invasion and occupation of Iraq — just one of a number of conflicts fought by the U.s. across the world since 9/11 — has wound up costing trillions of dollars while destabilizing the Middle East and breeding secondary conflicts that have continued to draw the U.s. in at further expense and loss of life. Current events have grimly underlined how the situation has grown out of control. The recent airport terrorist attack in Afghanistan, which killed over a dozen U.s. service members and around 170 Afghans, was claimed by a local branch of the Islamic state, a terrorist group that did not exist at the start of the global war on terror and was birthed amid the chaos created by the U.s. occupation of Iraq.

The conflicts appear to have no end in sight, even as the U.s. makes plans to extricate itself from its 20-year occupation of Afghanistan.

“What have we truly accomplished in 20 years of post 9/11 wars? Millions of lives and trillions of dollars later, who has won? Who has lost, and at what price?” said stephanie savell, co-director of the Costs of War Project. “Twenty years from now, we’ll still be reckoning with the high societal costs of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars – long after U.s. forces are gone.”

What does the Kremlin really think about Afghanistan?

THE KEY QUESTION NOW IS WHETHER MOSCOW IS EQUIPPED TO DEAL WITH A COMBUSTIBLE SITUATION ALONG ITS SOUTHERN FLANK THAT IS UNFOLDING FAR MORE QUICKLY THAN ANYONE MIGHT HAVE EXPECTED

Is Russia poised to fill the vacuum created by the chaotic U.s. departure from Afghanistan and enhance its clout in neighboring Central Asia? Don’t be so sure. Even though Moscow has publicly cheered the removal of U.s. and NATO troops from the region, Russian officials are sober-minded enough to appreciate the downsides of their departure.

The key question now is whether Moscow is equipped to deal with a combustible situation along its southern flank that is unfolding far more quickly than anyone might have expected. While Russian officials routinely assert that Moscow is rightfully the region’s chief security provider, it remains unclear whether Russia is up to that task, let alone whether it has the desire to do the job effectively.

Russia’s greatest asset and biggest advantage in a Taliban-dominated Afghanistan are low expectations. The Kremlin’s main goal will be to try to ensure that the Taliban prevents extremists from causing problems in neighboring Tajikistan and elsewhere in Central Asia. Moscow will be prepared to absorb a few spillover cases of extremism—when Russian policymakers deem it in their interests, they have shown a willingness to claim that a terrorist attack either didn’t occur at all or wasn’t even a terrorist attack in the first place.

Russian leaders will face a much stickier challenge if the self-proclaimed Islamic state or other organized extremist groups begin once again to target Central Asia or Russia itself from Afghanistan. This is precisely the scenario that Russian policymakers have worried about and tried to avoid since 2001—and it is the reason why, until 2015, Russia played a quiet but significant role in supplying the U.s.-led coalition in Afghanistan by way of the so-called Northern Distribution Network, which allowed NATO to transport equipment and supplies through Russian territory.

Beyond purely defensive goals, the Russians want and expect little from Afghanistan. Their long-term task will be to maintain Moscow’s influence in Central Asia as the reemergence of the Taliban and religious fundamentalism potentially shake up the region’s balance of power and security dynamics. Russia is likely to find a healthy demand for the security assistance that it claims as its strong suit. To this end, the Russian military has already held joint training exercises multilaterally via the Collective security Treaty Organization (CsTO), a Russian-led military alliance of former soviet states, and bilaterally in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and even the ever-elusive Uzbekistan, which traditionally has resisted Russia’s Eurasian integration agenda.

NOT SUCH A HELPFUL FRIEND: Yet Russia’s track record as a security provider for CsTO allies and regional partners is surprisingly thin. Unlike the U.s. military, which has spent the past two decades working by, with, and through foreign partners on counterterrorism missions, the Russian military operates in a totally different fashion. Recent history across the former soviet space

from Ukraine to Central Asia highlights that Moscow often is an unreliable, unpredictable, or ineffective partner. Russia stayed on the sidelines of the 2020 war and subsequent 2021 border confrontation between Azerbaijan and Moscow’s CsTO ally Armenia. When the government of Kyrgyzstan asked for help quelling ethnic riots in 2010, Moscow had no appetite for intervening. similar intercommunal violence persisted for days along the Kyrgyz-Tajik border in the spring of 2021, even as Russia’s minister of defense visited the Tajik capital for a meeting with counterparts from CsTO members. As if to underscore the ineffectiveness of that body, which Moscow created to reassert influence over its former internal empire, both Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the opposing sides of that brief border war, are CsTO members.

Other players including China and Turkey are likely to be more active and influential than Russia will be in both Afghanistan and parts of Central Asia. Financially, Russia can’t compete with China in parts of Central Asia that need to develop local economies and create jobs—an essential task for the region’s long-term stability. Moscow will also want to stay on good terms with Pakistan, the Taliban’s main sponsor, without alienating India. Moscow almost certainly reckons, based on its experience in syria and elsewhere, that such balancing acts are manageable. But they are a far cry from the level of control the Kremlin enjoyed in Central Asia before the soviet collapse.

DESPITE ALL APPEARANCES, RUSSIA IS WORRIED: The bombast and gloating of Russian propaganda over the humiliation of the United states in Afghanistan are just that: bravado directed primarily at a domestic audience. At the official level, Moscow has no illusions

about the threats resulting from the fall of former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani and the government he led. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister sergei Lavrov, Defense Minister sergei shoigu, and other officials place little stock in Taliban assurances that Russian interests in Afghanistan will be protected. Instead, they point to the threat from uncontrolled weapons transfers to the Taliban, the threat of extremists among Afghan refugees crossing into Central Asia, and concerns about the drug trade. The majority of the opium and heroin consumed in Russia comes from Afghanistan through Central Asia, creating a large public health problem.

In at least one respect, the Kremlin and its media propagandists reinforce each other’s messages: if security threats to Central Asia or Russia arise out of the Taliban takeover, they will be the fault of the United states. By preassigning blame, the Kremlin is trying to give itself an excuse should it have to resort to cross-border strikes inside Afghanistan itself.

As one Russian expert in the post-soviet states has suggested, Russian officials’ repeated denials that they intend to send troops to Afghanistan or resort to using force in the country raise suspicions that precisely such a possibility—with all the unwelcome comparisons to the soviets’ past misadventure in Afghanistan—weighs heavily on their minds. Moscow has its own sad and humiliating history in the country, and the Russian people have not forgotten it.

Paul Stronski is a senior fellow in Carnegie’s Russia and Eurasia Program, where his research focuses on the relationship between Russia and neighbouring countries in Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

Carnegie PAUL STRONSKI

FAST vANIShINg NATIoNAlISM PluNgeS NATIoN INTo dIFFeReNT FACTIoNS: TeSSoRI

KaraChi

staff report

TikTok announced launch of its ‘Aoa Ker Dikhaen’ campaign to drive awareness for the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. TikTok collaborated with the Prime Minister’s Office to formulate a comprehensive campaign that will help engage and inform the public about the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. In the picture: Officials from TikTok

and PM Office (right) are signing the agreement. pr

Karachi:

Telenor Pakistan’s Apollo app and Bookme.pk to offer ticket-buying convenience to customers

gFS Builders and Developers organized a grand Annual Awards ceremony 2022-23 to appreciate the significant and outstanding contribution of the employees towards tremendous growth and betterment of the organization. Awards were given to the employees whose performance was extraordinary in the concerned departments. GFS has commenced the Annual Awards distribution to encourage the employees to develop their skill and working spirit. The grand, colorful event was attended by the consulate generals of Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Oman, UAE, delegations of Italy and Turkey, Altaf Tai, Hasnain Pardesi, Farooq Sattar including dignitaries from different walks of life and media representatives. Key holder of holy Kaaba, Saleh Bin Taha Al-Shaibi specially came to grace the event and he offered dua. Managing Director of GFS, Mansoor Wahid and Director Sales and Marketing, Mohsin Wahid were also present on the occasion.

Governor Sindh, Muhammad Kamran Tessori was the Chief Guest.

Addressing the annual awards cer-

emony of GFS, Governor Sindh Muhammad Kamran Tessori said that holding such a colorful and grand event in a depressing atmosphere of the country is commendable. We are losing the nationalism spirit and being divided into different factions of nationalities. Bangladesh and Malaysia are now more advance than us. We are producing doctors and engineers, but we failed to become a good human being. This is the reason for our disaster. I wish Pakistan become the best country in the world.

Appreciating the GFS Annual

Awards, Governor Kamran Tessori said that GFS is one of the best builders in Pakistan. GFS made a prestigious name in a very short period and provided people with houses to live in.

Irfan Wahid is doing a great job and he is one of the most innovative and progressive thinkers.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

GFS Builders and Developer, Irfan Wahid said that all our dreams could come true if we have the courage to pursue them. Everything is theoretically impossible until it is done. All GFS employees are my family. We are

Musadik Malik inaugurates gas transmission project at Hafizabad

Lahore staff report

iSLaMaBaD: Bringing ease and convenience for its customers, Telenor Pakistan has partnered with Bookme.pk to integrate its ticketing portfolio into Telenor Pakistan’s retailer app, Apollo. Bookme.pk’s ticketing portfolio, coupled with Apollo’s vast nationwide retailer network, will enable customers, even those who do not have access to a smart digital device or a computer, t zo purchase or book tickets with ease. These include purchasing tickets or making bookings for buses, cinemas, hotels, logistics, cricket, car rental, tours, and events. Customers can walk up to Telenor Pakistan’s Apollo retailer and book a ticket without hassle. Umair Mohsin, Chief Marketing Officer, Telenor Pakistan, said, “Telenor Pakistan has always been keen on its commitment towards ensuring that we digitise the value chain and continue to innovate in our distribution model. I can proudly say that we’re harnessing an increasingly digital economy to reimagine access to services and products. pr

NBP inaugurates first disable-friendly branch on Shaheed-e-Millat Road

Minister of Energy (Petroleum Division) Senator Dr Musadik Malik inaugurated gas transmission project in district Hafizabad. Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Interior and Legal Affairs Attaullah Tarar, former Member of National Assembly Saira Afzal Tarar, Shahid Hussain Bhatti and MD SNGPL Ali J. Hamdani were also present on the occasion. The project which is expected to benefit 57,000 consumers of 150 villages has been completed at a cost of Rs. 2,142 million. Sui Northern Gas spent Rs. 1,609 million while funding of Rs. 533 million was provided by the Government of Pakistan.

The inaugurated gas transmission project includes 25.3 kilometers 8” dia long transmission line, distribution network of 582 kilometers and a Sales Metering Station (SMS) at Pindi Bhattian. The distribution network has already been commissioned by connecting

with the existing supply mains. This project while ensuring supply to the new consumers, will also help in addressing low pressure issues of existing consumers of Pindi Bhattian, Kot Sarwar, Kaley ke Mandi, Jalalpur Bhattian and surrounding villages.

Customs seizes smuggled goods worth Rs381m

KARACHI: Upon receipt of credible information from DG I&I that an organized group was about to secretly dump a huge quantity of smuggled goods at a compound near Rizvia Society, Scheme 33, Malir Karachi, the Directorate of I&I Karachi deputed an anti-smuggling team for surveillance of the premises. The team intercepted two suspicious trucks coming out of the premises on Rashid Minhas Road. The search of the trucks revealed them to be loaded with foreign origin assorted laptops. Upon non-production of documents of legal import/possession, the trucks along-with the drivers were escorted to the office of the Directorate.

A third truck exiting the premises was intercepted by the team near Askari Park, University Road, Karachi and found to be loaded with smuggled Aircraft Piston Engine oil. pr

always one through thick and thin.

GFS recognizes the outstanding performance of its employees and giving awards to the deserving persons for their achievements throughout the year is an essential part of GFS business strategy. Awards not only boost their involvement in work, but also encourage them to focus on work.

Irfan Wahid said that GFS Builders & Developers has been associated with Karachi's construction industry for the last two decades and has a prominent position in the city for its unique and outstanding projects. GFS stands for high quality and its construction designs shows a fine blend of modernity with a classical touch, and this exclusivity distinguishes GFS from other organizations.

Managing Director GFS, Mansoor Wahid said that GFS awards not only encourage its employees to show productivity but also motivate them to work hard with complete dedication and devotion.

Director Sales and Marketing, Mohsin Wahid, said that GFS Builders initiated the modern lifestyle in residential and commercial projects and introduced a unique idea of citywithin-a-city, which has given rise to a new trend in the world of construction.

ICCI shows concerns over falling forex reserves and rupee depreciation

iSLaMaBaD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry has shown great concerns over the falling forex reserves of the State Bank of Pakistan, which have tumbled down to a new low level of around US$ 3.7 billion and sharp erosion in the value of rupee, which has fallen to over Rs.265 against a dollar in the open market on Friday. These indicators show that if immediate corrective measures are not taken, the economy of Pakistan would be heading towards a collapse.

Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that strong foreign exchange reserves of a country give confidence to the local and foreign investors, but the continuous fall in the forex reserves of Pakistan are shaking the confidence of the business community and the potential investors. He said that the government in consultation with the private sector should take war footing measures to boost exports and divert remittances through banking channels to improve the foreign reserves of the country. He said that over 9000 containers carrying essential commodities including petroleum products, LNG and soybean are stuck up at ports due to shortage of dollars. He stressed that the government should explore out of the box solutions to improve the foreign exchange reserves to ensure that all essential imported consignments are cleared on time to save the business community from further losses. pr

Poverty paradigms of Pakistan

“The imbalance between the rich and poor is the oldest and most fatal ailment of all republics.” This quote was written by Plutarch almost 2,000 years ago, but despite the passage of centuries, it seems that it has never been more relevant.

where the top 1 percent of farmers own nearly 20 percent of farmed land, the increase in the family household increases the pressure on breadwinners and ensures that they are unable to improve their lifestyles.

In line with SBP’s vision to transform banks’ branches into disability-friendly branches for Persons with Disability (PWD); NBP has inaugurated its first branch having state of the art facilities for PWD on Shaheed e Millat Road. The initiative is part of the bank’s advocacy platform to create a more inclusive community for people with disabilities in Pakistan. The NBP President, (A) NBP Rehmat Ali Hasnie, inaugurated the branch along with Karim Akram Khan, SEVP/Group Chief, LCMG, Imran Farooqui, SEVP/Group Chief, Mehmood Akhtar Nadeem, Group Head, OPG, Shahzad Ahmed Karimi, PSO/EVP and other executives from HRMG, IDG, RBG, Aitemaad, OPG & LCMG. The branch is modified to better suit the needs of people with disabilities focusing primarily on enhanced mobility access. Low-height ATM desks, dedicated areas for wheelchairs in waiting areas, and other new options are added for people with disabilities, to ensure fast-tracked customer service. pr

With economic inequality that exists even in the most prosperous nations, Pakistan has also suffered from the scourge of poverty since its inception in 1947. Poverty has become a key part of Pakistan’s image in recent years. If you ask a foreigner what comes to mind when they hear the word “Pakistan”, chances are it’s either a scene of overcrowded slums alongside the Ravi or a disheveled beggar walking from car to car outside a department store in Islamabad.

The roots of this problem are deep and widespread, holding back economic growth and preventing the less fortunate from escaping the shackles of poverty. At 2.0%, Pakistan has the highest population growth rate in South Asia, a nerve-racking number when you consider that it borders some of the world’s most populous countries. In an agricultural system

In addition, Pakistan’s dominantly patriarchal system encourages couples to have children until a boy is born into the family: fueling the fire by increasing the number of feedings in already struggling households. In addition to population growth, about half of Pakistan’s population is illiterate. Without education and basic skills training, youth are unable to meet employment criteria. Existing systems have proven inadequate in addressing these issues, which hampers economic growth and societal development.

Without sufficient education, people remain unemployed and do not get the opportunity to break out of poverty. Pakistan also notoriously spends the lowest on education compared to other South Asian countries. Coupled with institutional corruption, the rise of child labor, and the growing trend of madrassa education, a lack of literacy can be seen as a major contributor to poverty. Another major factor contributing to poverty in Pakistan is the unbalanced tax system, which is detrimental to the poor. In a country

where four out of ten citizens live without the basic necessities of life, it is disheartening to see the fortunate clearly feeding off the less fortunate without consequence. A lecturer at UMass Amherst, Obed Pasha, is quoted as saying,

“What we have is a completely broken system, where the entire burden is on the poor and large businesses do not pay taxes at all.” With no income opportunities and a parasitic society, the poor cannot afford to pay taxes, reducing their chances of breaking out of poverty. Recent governments have made several policy changes to try to end poverty in Pakistan once and for all. Indeed, Pakistan was among the top 15 countries that showed the largest annual percentage point average decline between 2000 and 2015. However, as famous playwright John Heywood quoted, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

The problem of poverty is much deeper than we think. To make significant progress, we need to change our perspective and think in the long term. We must focus on changing the traditionally parasitic system, contribute to job opportunities for the poor and finally try to end the problem of poverty in our beloved nation once and for all.

isLamabad

MuhaMMad Zain Zeeshan Malik

(left)

On occasion of 6th Consumers Road Safety Conference organized by Consumer Association of Pakistan, Javed Alam Odhu, DIG Traffic Police, Ahmad Nawaz, DIG Motorway Police, Javed Ali Mehr, Dr Farhan Essa, CEO Essa Laboratory, Iftikhar Ahmed, National Manager Road Safety Atlas Honda, Asghar Ali Syed Head of CSR FCPCI, Brigadier Azhar Manzoor Chairman Advisory Council are addressing. pr

Bill GateS SayS ‘ChiNa’S riSe’ iS a ‘huGe wiN for the world’

ISLAmABAd

stAff report

BIllGates, co-founder of Microsoft, said on Wednesday that China’s rise is a “huge win for the world” during an interview with the lowy Institute, a think tank based in Australia, according to Fox Business.

“I tend to see China’s rise as a huge win for the world,” Gates said, adding that the portion of the Chinese people in the global population today matches their portion of the global economy.

Ties between the U.S. and China have been strained over geopolitical issues – most notably Taiwan – as well as trade disagreements.

Gates, 67, has a fortune worth $103.2 billion on the Forbes Real-Time Billionaires list today.

When asked about how “bullish” he was on China, he said he does think that “the current mentality of the U.S. to China and which is reciprocated is kind of a loselose mentality.”

He said it takes the whole world to work together for the global economy, for the discovery of cancer drugs and for the solution to climate change.

During the interview, Gates also said that the U.S. is politically in a weak state, adding that countries like China need to play a bigger role in world governance, according to Fox Business.

South Korea willing to restart dialogue with North

ISTANBUL Agencies

South Korea said on Friday that it will seek to “normalize” relations with the North through “direct and indirect” contacts.

“While the South will sternly counter North Korea’s provocations through cooperation based on the strong Seoul-Washington alliance, the government will also make efforts to restart inter-Korean dialogue this year,” Seoul-based Yonhap News quoted a report submitted to President Yoon Suk Yeol by the country’s Unification Ministry. However, Unification Minister Kwon Young-se clarified that the government “is not considering making a new offer of talks to Pyongyang, although it remains willing to resume dialogue at any time.” “It is important for North Korea to come back to dialogue with sincerity,” he said at a press conference in Seoul.

“The government plans to seek direct and indirect contact with North Korea through civic groups and international organizations in a bid to open up chances to improve strained inter-Korean ties,” the ministry said. The latest development comes after tensions on Korean Peninsula escalated late last year, when North Korea launched at least 60 missiles while South Korea and the US held joint military drills.

twitter gets frenzy as BtS ‘V’ sets to appear in a star studded cooking show

ISLAmABAd stAff report

houses in global innovation, Mr Gates said the United States was still the world leader.

“The US has this unique advantage that it draws in talented people from all over the world,” he said.

“Whether it is climate technology, curing cancer, curing obesity – there is no country that is going to take that position off the US. It is not like all the smart people are saying ‘let’s go to China and hang out’.”

Mr Gates said countries like China and India were becoming more innovative and were going to play a stronger role in world governance.

“China has gone from being incredibly impoverished in 1980 to being the most wealthy, middle income country,” he said.

“I tend to see China’s rise as a huge win for the world. But I do think the current mentality of the US towards China, which is reciprocated, is a lose-lose situation.”

Artificial Intelligence or AI is the next big tech shift that users can expect in the coming years, Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates recently said while interacting with a Reddit user last week. Gates thinks that metaverse and Web3 are revolutionary but not quite as much as AI.

“The current world system is designed around U.S. leadership,” he said, adding that as other countries have gotten richer, some middle-income countries including China and India need to play a stronger role in world governance.

Separately, when asked about who were the power-

Gates is confident that AI can have a significant impact in the fields of education and healthcare. For instance, it could be used to tutor kids with math and make it interesting. In medicine, AI could help people get medical advice in regions where doctors are not accessible.

Pakistan-China red chili project to help uplift Pakistan’s agriculture sector

On a fine January morning, Muhammad Sajjad was all smiles after seeing thriving saplings of the Chinese sweet chili at a nursery in a remote farming land of Pakistan’s eastern city of Multan.

“These saplings are very close to my heart; in their blossom, I can see the future of Pakistan’s agriculture industry, which will bloom just like my saplings when modern Chinese technology is applied to it,” Sajjad spoke as the morning sun rose from the east behind him.

launched in 2013, the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a corridor linking Pakistan’s Gwadar Port with Kashgar in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which highlights energy, transport and industrial cooperation in the first phase, while in the new phase expands to the fields of agriculture, livelihood, etc.

Echoing the CPEC’s cooperation in agriculture, China Machinery Engineering Corporation and Sichuan litong Food Group have established a company and carried out a red chili contract farming project in 2021, and one of six model farms of the project is in Multan.

Sajjad’s nursery is among thousands of acres of model farms where the company teamed up with locals for contract farming of Chinese chili varieties, with an aim to export the crops back to China after

harvest and earn foreign exchange revenue for Pakistan.

Talking to Xinhua, Muhammad Adnan, executive manager of the company, said that local farmers’ interest in cultivating Chinese chili is increasing due to its better yield and strong resistance to diseases.

“local chili is highly vulnerable to diseases, and farmers are hesitant to grow it, but the Chinese varieties are robust, easy to pick, and are sold at a higher price directly to Chinese companies from the farms, without any involvement of middleman, making it highly popular among local farmers,” he added.

Adnan said that in the near future, primary and deep processing units for value-added services of the crop will also be established in Pakistan, adding more value and jobs for locals.

The most crucial time for the

Member of the biggest musical sensation of the era BTS’s Kim Taehyung is all set to flaunt his amazing cooking and plating skills in a unique variety show this February.

Multiple times Grammy nominated and most loved musical group around the world, BTS is scoring high in the industry. After the military enlistment of the eldest member Kim Seokjin, all other members have been busy broadcasting their solo projects.

Just in time when BTS fans were expecting to witness a great concert film ‘Yet To Come’ ready to be released in cinemas around the world on 1st February, a teaser drop of Taehyung’s cooking show hyped up the entire scenario for armys (bts fandom).

Directed by Na PD, Seojin’s cooking show is a treat for all the fans as it features top-notch names of the industry including Kim Taehyung aka BTS’s V, lee Seo Jin, Jung Yumi, Park Seo Joon, and Choi Woo Shik.

Since the teaser was revealed, fans around the world started flooding social media feeling immense excitement for this upcoming show.

“It will be awesome to see Taehyung in the kitchen”, a fan shared on Twitter.

“I am always up for wholesome cooking content from Taehyung”, another fan tweeted.

“Super excited to see most popular multitalented artist kim taehyung”, a fan shared the tweet waiting eagerly for the show.

According to the official announcement by ‘tvN’ entertainment, the show will be broadcasted on February 24, 2023.

Modi regime forcibly used school boys, employees for official indian r-day events in iioJK

SRINAgAR

Agencies

crop is in January as the seedling process is underway in tunnels and the plants are easily rotten because of disease or low temperature.

However, local agriculture technicians at the project are handling the sowing process on the advice of Chinese experts.

In a conversation with Xinhua, Zhao Jianhua, a Chinese agronomist of the company with 27 years of experience in chili cultivation, said he has trained over 20 Pakistani agricultural technicians in the past years, who can help the farms independently.

“We are not only bringing cultivation technology to local farmers, but also working together with Pakistani agronomists to promote the development of the chili industry by combining technology with the advantages of both Chinese and Pakistani chili varieties,” he added.

In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the Modi regime, with help of Indian troops and police personnel, forcibly used schools boys, teachers and employees for official functions of Indian Republic Day, the 26th January, in the territory.

The Kashmiris marked India’s Republic Day as Black Day and sent a loud and clear message to the world that they reject India’s illegal occupation of their motherland.

local residents told the media that Indian troops and intelligence agencies had warned the people, particularly the administrations of schools and government employees, of severe consequences if they did not participate in the official functions.

Eyewitnesses said that the Indian army organised official functions in connection with the Indian Republic Day in several areas of the territory and forced people to participate in the so-called functions.

The Namberdar (village representative), District Development Councils and their paid agents of the area were assembled by the Indian Army in different areas for the official function. Pertinently, the whole occupied Kashmir has been under military and police siege since August 5, 2019.

China’s Y-20 large transport aircraft expected to generate more variants

BIejINg Agencies

China’s Y-20 large transport aircraft is expected to generate more variants and get more powerful engines after a series of successful development and mission deployments since its maiden flight one decade ago, experts said on Friday.

The domestically developed military cargo plane celebrated the 10th anniversary of its maiden flight on Thursday.

The development of a large plane like the Y-20 required China’s complete independence in terms of aviation technologies as well as breakthroughs in fields including new materials, modern manufacturing, advanced engines, electronics information and automatic control and computer technologies, state-owned Aviation Industry Corpo-

ration of China (AVIC), the maker of the Y20, said in a press release it sent to the Global Times on Thursday.

Over the past 10 years, the Y-20 was tasked with missions including participation in military exercises, military parades, air shows, the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and transporting international humanitarian aid, as the aircraft flew not only across China and in Asia, but also around the world, including to other continents like Europe, Africa and Oceania.

This demonstrates that the Y-20 has become a reliable aircraft and has been massproduced, observers said.

Based on the success of the Y-20 project, China can now not only deliver the large transport aircraft in significant numbers, but also improve designs and upgrade technologies based on needs to develop the plane into

a series of aircraft, AVIC said.

The Y-20 large transport aircraft has been developed into the YU-20 aerial tanker, and the Y-20 will have more variants, China Central Television reported on Thursday.

In the future, the Y-20 could be developed into a strategic early warning aircraft, a command and control aircraft, a long-range electronic warfare aircraft, or even a drone carrier, Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military aviation expert, told the Global Times on Friday.

The Y-20 could also be increased in length, and this will give it a larger cargo space, Fu said.

Thanks to the development of the new and more powerful engine which the Y-20 is expected to be equipped soon, the aircraft will receive a boost in terms of payload capacity and range, the expert said.

US eNvOy PrAISeS ATHLeTeS SeT TO rePreSeNT PAkISTAN IN BerLIN SPeCIAL OLyMPICS-2023

KARACHI Agencies

UNITEDStates Consul General in Karachi Nicole Theriot on Friday appreciated the young athletes going to represent Pakistan in the Special Olympic World Games2023 scheduled from June 17 to 25, 2023 at Berlin, Germany.

She said this while speaking at a dinner hosted to honor the team of special players who would be participating in the Special Olympic World Games in Berlin this year.

The US CG said that the special players were an inspiration for everyone and a shining example for Pakistani society.

“I am really proud of these young athletes, “It is a great experience to spend time with such talented athletes,” she observed.

The US CG recalled that the Special Olympic Games originated in the United States. “Today I feel happy and proud to attend the event representing my country here. I am excited for your participation in the upcoming games as the United States strongly advocates for the rights and equality of persons with disabilities in every respect, including sports.”

The dinner was hosted by Chairperson Special Olympic Pakistan, Ronak Lakhani. In promoting the Special Olympics, Chairperson Lakhani and her team have prepared

a competitive contingent from Pakistan through their sponsorship efforts.

Addressing the gathering, Ronak

Quetta Gladiators vs Peshawar Zalmi match in Quetta on February 5

Before the formal start of the Pakistan Super League, the Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi will be playing their match at Bugti Stadium of Quetta on February 5, 2023. A handout issued by the Directorate of Public Relations on Friday said that Babar Azam will lead Peshawar Zalmi while Sarfaraz Ahmed will be the captain of the Quetta Gladiators. Former captain Javed Miandad, Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Yousuf, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Moeen Khan, Wahab Riaz, Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal, Wahid Bangulzai, Bismillah Khan, Haseebullah will also be seen in action. DPR handout said, tickets for the match will be available at Mahmood Mart Airport, Gulzari Travels Murreeabad, Jan Mall, Daska Sports Store, Bugti Stadium and Bolan Cricket Stadium. It may be mentioned here that Peshawar Zalmi vs Quetta Gladiator match will be telecast live on PTV. Chairman PCB Najam Sethi and other dignitaries will also watch the match at Bugti Stadium, Quetta.

BALOCHISTAN CM, PCB Chairman discuss arrangements for PSL

Lakhani said that the athletes who win the honors for the country are role models for one and all.

“They are differently abled and by no means are less than the others. I hope that this time too, like in the past, our athletes

will win the medals at the Special Olympics and bring dignity and pride to Pakistan by securing medals.”

Also present at the event were the many qualified coaches working hard to ensure these special athletes are well prepared for the Special Olympic World Games-2023.

On this occasion, the athletes said that they were making full-fledged preparations for the mega event in Berlin and hopeful of winning honors for Pakistan.

Expressing good wishes for the Pakistani contingent at the Special Olympic World Games, to be held in June this year, German Consul General Rüdiger Lotz said: “I wish all these players a great time in Berlin and sincerely hope that not only do they perform at their best with their abilities but also learn and gain experience by playing against special players from around the world while enjoying the game and make the victory podium by doing so.”

Later, the guests of honor, flanked by the athletes, also enjoyed a musical performance on the occasion.

It is pertinent to mention here that 7,000 Special Olympics athletes supported by more than 3,000 coaches and 20,000 volunteers belonging over 170 countries to participate in 24 sports during in the event from June 17 to 25, 2023 at , Berlin, Germany.

First ‘KP Badminton League’ begins in Peshawar Sports Complex

The first Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Badminton League-2023 Friday got underway here at Peshawar Sports Complex in which six best teams of the province are participating.

Badminton League is being organized for the first time with the cooperation of Directorate General Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Provincial Badminton Association in which six teams of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Peshawar Falcon, Bannu Green, Deer Royal, KP Police, Future Champions KP, and JJ Sports Peshawar will participate. The Badminton League will continue till January 30.

Talking to the media, DG Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Khalid Khan said that the province was taking vigorous measures for the promotion and development of sports, 90 percent of the work on the Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium was completed and the rest would be completed by June this year.

The rest of the work will also be com-

learn more from their senior players in the League. After the successful conduct of the Pakistan Badminton League will also be organized very soon. He also thanked Director General Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Khalid Khan for organizing this league. In this league, National Champion Murad Ali, South Asian Champion Qari Adnan, National Junior Player Mohammad Zaid, U19 Umar Jahangir, U15 Champion Fahad Ahmed, U13 Champion Najam Saqib, U16 Champion Taimur Khan, Shoaib Riaz, Abdullah Latif, Zuhaib Khan are in this league. Many junior and senior players including Khalil, Tahir Khan, Uzair Khan, Hamza Khan, Afnan Khan are involved.

KARACHI Agencies

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee’s Chairman Najam Sethi called on Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at Chief Minister House here on Friday. They discussed arrangements for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL), starting from February 14. The Chief Minister said that PSL was their own event adding that the Sindh government would fully help in holding the PSL. He lauded the efforts of Najam Sethi for the development of international and local Cricket. PCB Management Committee Chairman Najam Sethi said that matches of PSL would be played from February 14 to February 26. He informed the Chief Minister of his efforts for the restoration of Cricket Clubs.

MElbouRnE

Agencies

A rampant Novak Djokovic surged into a 10th Australian Open final Friday to close in on a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam crown, with only Stefanos Tsitsipas now standing in his way.

The Serbian fourth seed overcame an early wobble to romp past unseeded American Tommy Paul 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena in style.

Another title on Sunday will move him alongside Rafael Nadal with 22 Slam wins and see the 35-year-old return to world number one for the first time since last June.

Greek third seed Tsitsipas, who ground past Russian 18th seed Karen Khachanov 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 63 in the other semi-final, can also become the top-ranked player should he lift the trophy.

Djokovic played the clash without

pleted this

way. He said work is also going on the upgradation of Qayyum Sports Complex football ground, apart from this, various sports competitions will continue according to the schemes, in which Inter-Schools competitions and competitions for special individuals will be held in February and March.

Rampant Djokovic surges into 10th Australian Open final

father Srdjan courtside after he was filmed posing with a man holding a Russian flag featuring Vladimir Putin’s face following his son’s quarter-final win on Wednesday.

The incident sparked a backlash fro Ukraine and led to calls for Djokovic’s father to be banned from the tournament.

Srdjan issued a statement ahead of the semi-final saying he would stay away, insisting he “wishes only for peace” and never wanted to cause “disruption”.

There was an empty seat next to his mother Dijana during the match.

“I’m really thankful that I have enough gas in my legs to be able to play at this level on one of the biggest tennis courts in the world,” said Djokovic, who is now 11-0 for the season and into a 33rd Grand Slam final.

“Of course, I’m not as fresh as the beginning of the tournament but we put

On this occasion, the organizing secretary of the league, Nadeem Khan and Hayatullah, said that the purpose of the league is to prepare the players for the National Junior and Senior Championships to be played in February.

They said through such league the juniors players while playing side-by-side

Administrator Peshawar Sports Complex Syed Jafar Shah, Provincial Badminton Association Secretary Muhammad Amjad, Administrator Hayatabad Sports Complex Shah Faisal, International Badminton players Murad Ali, Qari Adnan, international badminton coaches Nadeem Khan and Hayat Ullah and other important personalities were present.

Governor unveils trophies, kits for Peshawar Zalmi Media T10 Cricket Cup

PESHAWAR Agencies

in a lot of hours in the off-season on fitness in order to be in a good condition to play best of five (sets).

“I know what’s expected of me, I’ve been in this situation so many times in my career.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Haji Ghulam Ali on Friday unveiled the glittering winner and runner-up trophies and playing kits of the first Peshawar Press Club Zalmi Media T10 Cricket Cup, here. Peshawar Press Club President Arshad Aziz Malik along with senior journalists warmly received the governor. Peshawar Press Club Secretary Irfan Mosazai lauded CEO of Zalmi Foundation Javed Afridi and its management for extending support to organizing a Zalmi T20 Media Cricket Cup, wherein a total of 8 teams comprising more than 200 journalists are taking part. He said earlier it was planned to have 16 teams but due to shortage of time, “the T10 Media Cricket League will have eight teams and the matches will be played on knock-out basis in three days, here at Islamia College University Cricket Ground for which all arrangements have also been made. Arshad Aziz Malik said that sports activities were a regular feature of Peshawar Press Club and aimed to provide much needed physical and mental relief to its members, which have increased to over 600.

PESHAWAR stAff RepoRt

ZaRdaRi aMong Those haTChing ‘Plan C To eliMinaTe Me’: iMRan

rulers,” he claimed, adding that almost 70 first information reports (FIRs) have been lodged against him as if he was some traitor.

eConoMIC SItuAtIon: The PTI Chairman lambasted the government over country’s economic situation, where the value of the Pakistani rupee had plummeted while the foreign exchange reserves had also fallen to dangerous levels.

Imran noted that in such a situation, financing will only be offered on terms which could have a direct impact on Pakistan’s national security. “In Sri Lanka and Egypt, when they sought financing in such a situation, they were told to cut their military expenses by half,” he said.

The former premier noted that Pakistan’s national security too could be compromised as the country’s economy falters while raising taxes to astronomical levels in a bid to stabilize the economy.

He regretted that the US dollar gained Rs84 in the first nine months of Shehbaz Sharif led government compared to around Rs30 in his three and a half years. “PTI government left the foreign reserves at $16.4 billion which has now fallen to just $3.6 billion,” he noted.

China-imported coaches to help increase revenue of Pakistan Railways: PM

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

LAHORE Staff RepoRt

PAKISTANTehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman

Imran Khan Friday made a stunning revelation about a new plan hatched for his assasination, claiming that now they have made a “Plan C” with Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari in the leading role in “this plot.”

“Now they have made a Plan C, and Asif Zardari is behind this. He has loads of corruption money, which he loots from the Sindh government and spends on winning elections. He has given money to a terrorist outfit and people from powerful agencies are facilitating him. This has been decided on three fronts and they will act soon,” former prime minister and PTI Chairman claimed while addressing a press conference on the country’s economic situation here on Friday.

During a live telecast speech, the former prime minister accused former president Asif Zardari of paying money to a terrorist outfit to carry out the “latest assassination attempt on his life.”

Imran Khan said that there were three more names along with Zardari who will be part of this new plot.

“I am telling you this because if something happens to me the nation should know the people who were behind this, so that the nation never forgives them,” he added.

“Former president and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari is among the four people who are planning to kill me.”

The former prime minister’s latest claims come months after he was wounded in a shooting at a rally in Wazirabad, part of a long march that he was leading to press for general elections. A number of other PTI leaders were also injured and a supporter killed in the November 3 attack.

“Asif Zardari has given Sindh government’s money to a terrorist organization to assassinate me,” the PTI chief alleged, adding that they were using Sindh government’s ‘looted money’ against him.

He further said, “They think that the only way to get me out of the way is actually to eliminate,” believing that efforts were underway to save those ‘four people’.

It is pertinent to mention here that Imran Khan and several other PTI leaders were wounded in an assassination attempt after a man opened fire near the PTI reception camp in Wazirabad during party’s long march.

Speaking about the Wazirabad attack, the former premier said he already knew about the bid to assassinate him. “I informed the public about the attempt and a recorded video, which carries the names of all those who conspired against me,” he said.

“They backtracked from their attempt and went for a Plan B – in which they tried to kill me in the name of religious extremism,” he said, adding that that plan also failed. ArreSt of fAWAD Ch: The PTI chairman lashed out at the federal government for treating his party leaders as traitors, saying that the ‘fascist government’ comprised of their worst enemies were treating them as traitors rather than political opponents.

He regretted that PTI leaders Fawad Chaudhary and Azam Swati had been subjected to treatment which is usually reserved for hardened criminals and traitors.

“Such a treatment was being meted out to those who are raising their voice against the incumbent

Imran Khan further claimed that the Consumer Price Index was 12% when he left and could rise to an unprecedented 35%. The Sensitive Price Index was 16%, but now it would reach to up to 50%.

He said services industry performed well after 17 years under the PTI regime and that they managed to create 5 million jobs, but every single industry was being hit hard today due to the misaligned policies of the Shehbaz Sharif government.

‘ZArDArI PLAnnIng AttACK on KhAn’:

Earlier in the day, Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed alleged that former president Asif Ali Zardari has hired a group of terrorists to target PTI Chairman and former premier Imran Khan.

Imran’s ‘statements’ to land him in jail: Sanaullah

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has said that although Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s arrest is not on the cards, the ex-prime minister’s statements are forcing him to think otherwise. “At this moment, I am not in favour of having Imran arrested. However, when [I hear] the kind of statements that he’s making, I am forced to think that he should be arrested,” Sanaullah told journalists on Friday in London.

“He should be arrested once so that we can witness the kind of storm he claims of wanting to unleash,” the interior minister said, who Khan has blamed for being involved in his Wazirabad assassination bid. However, the minister has categorically rejected the allegations.

Sanaullah also said that the first information report (FIR) — which includes a sedition charge — against PTI Senior Vice President Fawad Chaudhry was not objectionable.

“The people who are claiming that the case was made for victimisation should read the FIR. They’ll get to know that the election commission had it registered,” Sanaullah noted.

“The election commission took action against Fawad Chaudhry after he spoke against it,” the interior minister said.

Fawad, a former federal minister, was arrested from his Lahore residence in the wee hours of Wednesday after he publicly “threatened” the members of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and their families in a media talk a day earlier.

He was then taken to Islamabad, where the capital’s police were granted a two-day remand of the PTI leader in the sedition case. His arrest drew strong criticism within the federal government’s ranks — which, although, has denied involvement.

Today, a court in Islamabad sent him on a 14-day judicial remand after it rejected the police’s plea for an extension in physical.

Senior politicians — including Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders Raza Rabbani and Farhatullah Babar and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) Musadik Malik — have deplored the sedition charge levelled against Fawad and demanded that they be dropped immediately.

The minister, in the conversation with journalists, added that he has held several meetings with PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif and will be leaving for Pakistan today.

He added that after directions from the party elder, PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz would commence the election campaign in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) from February 1. At a recent meeting in London, Nawaz assigned tasks related to Punjab’s politics to Sanaullah and also instructed the interior minister to mobilise party workers in the province for the upcoming elections. Maryam, who is in London currently, is scheduled to come back to Pakistan along with Sanaullah.

The elections are expected to take place in the next three months after former Punjab chief minister Parvez Elahi dissolved the provincial assembly earlier this month. Staff RepoRt

Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif said on Friday that the newly imported train coaches from China will help Pakistan Railways to attract passengers and increase revenue. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the formal induction of the China-imported coaches in railways, Sharif said that the Chinese company has provided coaches to Pakistan with new features including WiFi and modern chairs among others. The coaches will run as Green Line Express train from the capital city of Islamabad to the country’s southern port city of Karachi, passing through major cities across Punjab and Sindh provinces. Friday’s inaugurated train consisted of nine coaches, including six new coaches imported from China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) Tangshan Company in late 2022 and three recently refurbished units that were imported from China in 2015. Sharif said that the inclusion of Chinese coaches in the Green Line service will enhance the image of Pakistan railways and attract commuters. Speaking at the event, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique said that the Green Line Express service was halted due to floods in the country, which incurred heavy losses to railways and affected many tracks. “Pakistan has resumed the service with the help of Chinese friends, and the service has been restored across the country now,” he added. Rafique said that from the contract to acquire 230 coaches from China, Pakistan has received 46 coaches and the remaining will be manufactured in Pakistan under a technology transfer agreement.

Tareen, son cleared of money-laundering charges

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

The court of a local judicial magistrate here on Friday quashed money-laundering case registered against Jahangir Tareen and his son Ali Tareen. The orders were passed by the judicial magistrate in light of the report submitted by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The FIA investigation officer submitted a report in the court in money-laundering case against Jahangir Tareen and his son Ali Tareen. The FIA in its report stated that allegations of money-laundering were not proved in the inquiry and all the transactions were done in accordance with the Security Exchange Companies of Pakistan Act. The allegations against Jahangir Tareen and Ali Tareen are not true as the accused have provided documentary evidence regarding the transactions of all the amounts. The FIA had registered two separate cases against father, son duo over the charges of allegedly committing fraud and money-laundering worth Rs3.14 billion.

Lucky Industries signs agreement to buy 75pc shares in Lotchem

pROfIt REpORt

MuhaMMad Raafay Khan

Lucky Core Industries (LCI), formerly known as ICI Pakistan holdings, has entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) with South Korean multinational Lotte Korea to purchase the chemical giant’s entire 75.01% shareholding in Lotte Chemical Pakistan (LOTCHEM). The deal will cost over $156 million and is expected to complete by the end of the year subject to regulatory approvals.

Lotte Korea (or Lotte Chemical Corporation) is the parent company of LOTCHEM Pakistan and holds 75.01% shareholding in the subsidiary. This entire shareholding is being sold to LCI, which is a subsidiary of Lucky Cement Limited.

The announcement of the SPA was made to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) by both LCI and LOTCHEM on Friday.

The notification by LOTCHEM read, “We would like to inform you that the Board of Directors of the Lotte Chemical Corporation (“LCC Korea”), the majority (75.01%) shareholder of Lotte Chemical Pakistan Limited (“Company”) has entered into Share Purchase

Agreement dated January 26, 2023 with Lucky Core Industries Limited for the sale of all of the Company’s shares held by LCC Korea (i.e. 1,135,860,105 constituting approximately 75.01% of the issued and paid-up capital of the Company) for the purpose of the optimisation of LCC Korea’s business portfolio (“Proposed Divestment”).”

After the SPA, the next step in the acquisition process for LCI is the announcement of a public offer which means LCI will also have to buy shares from the general public in tender, following which the shareholding of LOTCHEM will change hands. According to independent analyst Suleman Maniya, in the case of such a majority transfer of ownership, acquisition rules dictate that LCI has to make an offer to buy a total of 87.51% shareholding (tender of around 12.5%).

Earlier, the Board of Directors (BoD) of Lotte Korea made the decision to sell its Pakistani subsidiary on January 13 to LCC. The deal was subject to the signing of a SPA on January 26, which has now been confirmed.

However, LCI was not the only company in the race to acquire LOTCHEM. Other interested parties included Novatex (Private) Limited and AsiaPak Invest-

ments. Novatex was leading the race to acquire LOTCHEM until late last year but the deal fell through after progress was hindered by Pakistani authorities due to a dollar shortage in Pakistan.

The LCI took its chance and came up with a better offer to Lotte Korea after which Novatex withdrew from the acquisiton race. Subsequently, AsiaPak Investments also announced their withdrawal to acquire Lotchem on January 24th, 2023.

The LCI made the public announcement to acquire 75.01% shareholding of LOTCHEM last year on July 22, through their manager of the offer, Optimus Capital Management (Private) Limited. On October 7, 2022, the BoD of LCI authorised the company to submit a binding bid for the acquisition. The SPA was signed on January 26, 2023. The public offer by LCI is expected in the next few weeks. However, It is unclear how LCI will arrange for the payment in dollars considering Pakistan is short on dollar reserves.

Why is Lotte Korea selling Lotte Pakistan?

The Korean chemical giant wants to sell off its Pakistani subsidiary in order to streamline its global business operations with a focus on advanced materials and eco-friendly products.

LOTCHEM Pakistan engages in the production of purified terephthalic acid (PTA). This PTA is widely used to make Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and other polymer products, such as fibres, resins and thin films. Lotte Korea in 2020 closed its own domestic PTA production line in Ulsan, South Korea, to become more ecologically responsible. The sale of the Pakistani unit means that the chemical giant will no longer engage in PTA production.

The South Korean corporation wants to consolidate its operations by focusing on cutting-edge materials and ecologically responsible goods. The proceeds from the sale are predicted to strengthen the company’s advanced materials division, improve the development of environmentally friendly synthetic chemicals, and modernise the current chemical products used as plastics’ feedstock.

In the PSX, LOTCHEM’s shares had the eighth highest trading volume during the Friday trading session with a volume of over 4.7 million shares. The share price opened at Rs 26.73 and closed at Rs 25.37, a decrease of 5.09% during the day. This decline is not due to any particular reason related to the sale of Lotchem but because of uncertainty in the stock market.