Epaper_23-05-29 ISB

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YOUM-E-TAKBEER DAY OF NATION’S REMARK ABLE JOURNEY TOWARDS CREDIBLE DETERRENCE:

SAYS PAKISTAN LAID DOWN RULES OF GAME FOR PEACE, STABILITY IN REGIONAL ON THAT DAY

Pakistan marks anniversar y of nuclear bomb

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

The nation is fervently celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first nuclear weapons test which marked a significant milestone granting Pakistan invincible defense capabilities and contributing to regional stability through power equilibrium Pakistan detonated five nuclear devices underground in remote hills in Balochistan on May 28, 1998, and an additional test on May 30 two weeks after India conducted similar tests

The tests sparked widespread celebrations among the people proud that their nuclear scientists had matched the arch-rival neighbours

The day brought about a resur-

gence of national pride for the entire Pakistani nation and became a source of honour for the Muslim world Now commemorated as Youm-i-Takbeer May 28 is celebrated as a symbol of national pride and gratitude These tests positioned Pakistan as the seventh nuclear power globally and the first Islamic state to possess a nuclear arsenal ensuring maximum deterrence for peaceful purposes within its defense stockpile The tests not only showcased the unwavering determination of the Pakistani nation to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity independence and sovereignty but also demonstrated its commitment to maintaining a strategic balance in South Asia

PM

g ARMED FORCES PAY RICH TRIBUTES TO BRILLIANT SCIENTISTS, ENGINEERS ON YOUM-E-TAKBEER: ISPR

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

PRIME Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday said that Youm-e-Takbeer was not just a day but a story of the nation s challenging and remarkable journey towards establishing credible minimum deterrence

Taking to his Twitter handle on Sunday the prime minister said that on that day Pakistan set a redline for its defence and laid down rules of the game for peace and stability in the region

On the Silver Jubilee of Youm-e-Takbeer, I pay rich tributes to the political & military leadership, scientists, engineers and all those who remained associated with our nuclear programme he said in a tweet as the nation celebrates the 25th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer on Sunday

The prime minister further said that their hard work, commitment and determination made it possible for the people to guard their independence from any physical threat The day represents how the consensus between all elements of national power achieved what once looked like an uphill task, he posted in a tweet The prime minister said Shaheed Zulifkar Ali Bhutto was a visionary leader who initiated the nuclear programme adding in a show of bold leadership his leader Mian Nawaz Sharif firmly rejected the policy of stick and carrot and made sure that the country became nuclear “All along, our armed forces remained a guardian & protector of the programme in the face of malign intentions of our enemies he said Armed forces pay rich tribute to brilliant scientists, engineers on Youm-e-Takbeer

The armed forces on Sunday paid

No talks after vandalism of militar y installation: Saad Rafique

PML-N Minister Khawaja Saad

Rafique on Sunday made it clear that there is no way possible for talks with the PTI especially after violent incidents on May 9 and vandalism of military installations

Talking to media persons after visiting Corps Commander House, known as Jinnah House on Sunday Kh Saad Rafique urged former prime minister Imran Khan and the entire PTI leadership to accept their mistake and apologise to the whole nation over the May 9 riots They should do release a public apology,” the PML-N minister said emphasising that what PTI did does not fall under the garb of politics Imran has formed a committee who will talk to them? No one , Saad Rafique mocked, saying this is no situation to hold talks

The railway’s minister claimed that former prime minister Imran Khan had told his team to end the talks with the government which

were held on the orders of the Supreme Court last months

He told the reporters to also question the politicians who represented the PTI in talks about the matter

There is an agenda for talks and there is a situation created for talks to take place,” he said “Their team was doing a reasonable talk and matters were decided but to no avail

PML-N s Khawaja Saad Rafique while lambasting those involved in the vandalism of the Jinnah House in Lahore, said the “rioters” and their

approach was shameless He alleged that the PTI leadership and ticket holders were involved in the arson despite knowing about the sanctity of the installation This fire did not erupt because of petrol or matchbox, but chemicals ” The railways minister also claimed that Imran poisoned the minds of the youth and sowed the seeds of hatred in their minds for years

Khawaja Saad Rafique visits Jinnah House in Lahore, terms May 9 vandalim ‘disheartening’

Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique has termed the protests of May 9 which erupted following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan, as a disheartening event

Talking to media persons outside the Jinnah House in Lahore the PML-N leader lamented damages to valuable things preserved at Jinnah House including Quaid-eAzam s room, his writing table, and handwritten notes

Govt will rein in economic crisis

with or without IMF’: Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday declared that Pakistan will overcome the economic crisis with or without the International Monetary Fund (IMF) “Pakistan will never default with or without the IMF Ishaq Dar reiterated the government s resolve claiming foreign powers are surprised that Pakistan does not default so far

While talking to a private news channel Dar claimed that former prime minister Imran Khan had destroyed the national economy after coming into power He added that Imran Khan s government got a $100 billion market from the previous PML-N government but it was destroyed and Pakistan had nearly defaulted Dar said that IMF asked Pakistan to arrange $6 billion a technical deal was signed to arrange $3 billion before and after the loan programme He added that IMF MD

had also confirmed that Pakistan will not default We will try to avoid putting financial burden on common people in the next budget We will bring discipline to the economy and resolve the economic issues Pakistan has reserves worth $1 000 billion hence it should not be compared with Sri Lanka We have to control our internal expenditures The IMF programme will conclude on June 30

nance said the budget preparation was in the final stage to present a relief-oriented and business-friendly budget in order to avoid further burdening the poor He said some internal and external elements blatantly attempted to destabilize the country s economy In past, the government has allowed the pre-flow of the currency in the market and brought its value down artificially Dar said

The devaluation of the currency has heightened inflation and the government is aware of the people s suffering and assured that every promise made with the public would be met, he added The government has working on the formation of a comprehensive strategy to bring the dollar price down to its actual level which was less than 250 rupees

He said the value of the US dollar will be 240 to 250 rupees in the coming days which would be its real value

rich tribute to the brilliant minds who conceived and achieved credible minimum nuclear deterrence accomplishment under daunting challenges According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), “the armed forces salute the scientists and engineers who turned the impossible into a reality Long Live

Pakistan

It said the complete Pakistani nation celebrated the Silver Jubilee of Youm-e-Takbeer and commemorated the remarkable achievement of establishing Credible Minimum Deterrence “This achievement has reshaped the power dynamics in our region it added Meanwhile Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb on Sunday said celebration ceremony of Youm-e-Takbeer silver jubilee would be held at Liberty Chowk, Lahore later in the evening Under the leadership of Senior Vice President and Chief Organizer of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the people will celebrate this great and historic day when the country’s defense was made invincible ” the minister said in a tweet Sanaullah for honouring those who made Pakistan s defence impregnable Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan Sunday said that May 28 served as a testament to the unwavering determination of the people of Pakistan to make defence of the country an insurmountable challenge

In a tweet on the occasion of Youme-Takbir the minister said as the nation celebrates the silver jubilee of the day of nuclear tests carried out by Pakistan in 1998, “Let us all honor and acknowledge the pivotal contributions of individuals who played a crucial role in achieving this historic milestone and made Pakistan s defense impregnable

Bilawal greets nation on silver jubilee of countr y’s nuclear tests

KARACHI S ta f f R e p o R t

Chairman Pakistan People s Party (PPP) and Foreign

Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended greetings to the nation on the silver jubilee of the country s nuclear tests and saluted all the people, including scientists, who played their role in making Pakistan the first nuclear nation in the Islamic world According to the statement issued by media cell Bilawal House

Chairman PPP said that the nuclear programme of the country is indeed a great gift of the Qauid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to the nation He said that the first elected Prime Minister of the country, Shaheed Bhutto, had said that if we have to eat grass, we will do so, but we will make Pakistan a nuclear power at any cost “Making Pakistan a nuclear power was the mission of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto ” he added Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto shielded and advanced the country s nuclear programme as Prime Minister He pointed out that in 1998, when India carried out nuclear tests, then Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto stood firm as the leader of the opposition and demanded that the government should also immediately carry out nuclear tests adding that even though Shaheed Bibi was in the opposition she fully supported the Mian Nawaz Sharif government on this issue The Chairman PPP said that his party is strictly following the footsteps of its martyred leaders, founder chairman Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and chairperson Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto regarding the nuclear programme of the country Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan strictly adheres to the policy of minimum credible nuclear deterrence, and at the same time Pakistan s nuclear program is for peace and stability in the region

CHINESE INITIATIVE HELPS ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS: EXPERTS

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

The Global Development Initiative (GDI) proposed by China is aimed at accelerating the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by focusing on people-oriented development experts from Pakistan said

The GDI promotes stronger greener and healthier global development by revitalising global development cooperation and partnerships with countries and organisations around the world, said the experts and academics at a webinar which was organised by

the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), an Islamabad-based think tank

Former foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood said the GDI was a critical initiative launched by China at a time when the world was deeply affected by the health and economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the deficit in the achievement of SDGs was growing Mahmood said the initiative would help tackle the challenges of the world and facilitate the post-pandemic recovery and Pakistan was one of the first countries to lend its strong support for it At a time of global food, fuel and financial crises, initiatives like GDI are essential

for the developing world, he said while expressing the hope that the initiative would be perceived in its right perspective by all to ad-

vance the noble cause of the achievement of SDGs by 2030

The GDI aims to take advantage of technology innovation and modern infrastructure in order to tackle multiple challenges faced by the world Masood Khalid former ambassador to China, said China has proposed several initiatives including the GDI and Global Security Initiative (GSI) at a time of major transformation in the international system Khalid said Unilateralism and zero-sum mindset were creating more disorders in the already destabilised world Amid this growing polarisation, China had emerged as a spokesperson for peace, development and

P M L- N w i l l r e a p t o m o r r o w w h a t i t i s s o w i n g t o d ay: S h e i k h R a s h i d

LAHORE S ta f f R e p o R t Aw a m i M u s l i m L e a g u e c h i e f S h e i k h R a s h i d o n S u n d a y w a r n e d t h a t t h e r u li n g p a r t y [ P M L - N ] w o u l d r e a p t h e h a rv e s t t o m o r r o w o f w h a t t h e y w e r e s o w i n g c u r r e n t l y

In a series of tweets, the former interior minister who is still standing by PTI Chairman Imran despite many of his own close aides leaving the party after the May 9 episode remarked that any political party was not a sugar factory and it remained in the masses hearts The [biryani] public meeting in Kasur [held by the PML-N] cannot damage Lal Haveli anyway ” he quipped

About the Youm-e-Takbeer celebrated every year on May 28 in connection with

the nuclear tests conducted in 1998 Rashid gave credit to Raja Zafarul Haq, Gohar Ayub and himself for the move He further

Gas cylinder blast claims one life, leaves several injured

RAWALPINDI:

out

pulled

rescue operation

as a result of a gas leakage within the house located in People s Colony The injured individuals comprise four men, two women, and an equal number of children, the spokesperson added S ta f f R e p o R t

Pakistan to promote AI to boost national development: minister

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Syed Amin ul-Haque said that artificial intelligence (AI) use and its promotion in the country is the need of the hour for national development Pakistan has to progress in multiple fields, especially in artificial intelligence in order to move alongside the digital world the minister said in an official meeting on AI Haque highlighted that all-out efforts are being made to encourage AI in the country saying that the incumbent government is going to launch its first-ever national artificial intelligence policy in the coming days The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication is going to set up a policy committee comprising industry academia and AI experts which will give proposals to tackle different challenges regarding artificial intelligence, he said, adding that 100,000 graduates will be given AI training in the next five years in collaboration with the academia “The AI policy will be helpful for protecting data [ ] readiness is vital to tackle challenges in the technology field he added S ta f f R e p o Rt

claimed the rest of the cabinet including the then prime minister Nawaz Sharif were against the nuclear tests

The former minister said he would live and die in Pakistan but his name had been placed on the exit control list (ECL) while diplomatic passports were issued to the convicted persons living abroad having their assets and children also there H e a l s o c l a i m e d t h a t t h e r u l i n g a lliance comprising 13 parties had become a s y m b o l o f h a t e a n d t h e P M L - N supremo, Nawaz Sharif, would never go for elections R a s h i d u rg e d t h e i n s t i t u t i o n s t o h o l d a n i m p a r t i a l i n v e s t i g a t i o n i n t o t h e M a y 9 e v e n t s a n d p u n i s h t h e c u l p r i t s t i g h t a n d p l e a d e d f o r a n o t h e r p r o b e t o k n o w o n w h o s e o r d e r s t h e p o l i c e w e r e a s l e e p t h a t d a y “If a patriotic Pakistani cannot stand against his own army he also cannot stand by the PDM’s thieves ” he concluded

Lack of clarity plagues KP ’s effor ts to formulate developmental program

PESHAWAR a z i z B u n e R

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Planning and Development (P&D) is facing administrative challenges in preparing for its Annual Developmental Program (ADP) The department made three changes to the approved ADP within a week leading to a lack of progress in the program thus far

In an effort to address this issue the P&D has issued guidelines for a fourmonth developmental program, encompassing four proposed scenarios: a

program worth 30 billion PKR, 70 billion PKR, 100 billion PKR, and 130 billion PKR

The P&D had instructed administrative departments to propose an ADP worth 30 billion PKR using their own resources Each department submitted its program to the P&D, which held a meeting last Monday to discuss the submissions

According to sources, three days ago the P&D ordered the preparation of a full-year developmental program and each department was directed to prioritize a program worth 130 billion PKR The departments have been instructed to

arrange their programs according to the proposed budget

However, yesterday, the P&D emphasized the need to work on a program worth 70 billion PKR and called for a meeting on Monday to discuss the matter According to sources each department is now required to prepare three separate programs, and it is unclear which developmental program will be finalized The administrative changes and uncertainties surrounding the developmental program have raised concerns among stakeholders who are eagerly awaiting a definitive plan from the P&D

GDA razes illegal construc tion in housing society owned by Farah Gogi

A case was registered against Farah Gogi and her husband Ahsan Jameel Gujjar for map violation According to the FIR the map of the park and commercial area was changed and residential plots were created and illegal constructions were done on government plots

and sheds were constructed without the approval of construction map Heavy machinery was used to demolish the illegal constructions In addition to the GDA and Corporation Department officers a large number of police officials were also present during the operation

cooperation, he noted

Lauding China for its launch of the farreaching and consequential GDI chairman of the Senate’s Defense Committee Mushahid Hussain Syed said this initiative reflected that the Chinese values are all about cooperation, peace and respect Despite global conflicts, climate change, poverty and energy-related challenges, China has shown impressive leadership ” said the senator He underlined that Pakistan and China have shared a long-standing all-weather and time-tested strategic relationship, and the two countries should work together to build a future of progress, prosperity and cooperation

Multan’s weather turns cold after 22.3mm rain

M U LTA N : T h e c i t y a n d i t s s u r r o u n d i n g a r e a s w i t n e s s e d 2 2 3 m i l l i m e t e r r a i n w i t h h e a v y w i n d s a n d h a i l s t o r m o n S u n d a y e v e n i n g w h i c h r e f r e s h e d t h e a t m o s p h e r e a n d t u r n e d t h e w e a t h e r c o l d a n d c i t i z e n s f e e l a s i g h o f r e l i e f a f t e r t h e s c o r c h i n g h e a t A c c o r d i n g t o M e t o ff i c i a l s , t h e w e s t e r l y w a v e s a p p r o a c h e d t h e S o u t h P u n j a b a n d c l o u d w e a t h e r c o v e r e d t h e s k y w h i l e d r i z z l i n g w i t h h e a v y w i n d s a l o n g w i t h h a i l s t o r m f o r c e d t h e c i t i z e n s t o r e m a i n a t h o m e s T h e r a i n w a t e r i n u n d a t e d t h e r o a d s s t r e e t s w h i c h d i s r u p t e d t h e r o u t i n e l i f e a n d h e a v y w i n d s a l s o d i s t u r b e d t h e M E P C O s p o w e r s u p p l y s y s t e m T h e r a i n c o n t i n u e d i n t h e c i t y i n t e r m i t t e n t l y T h e o ff i c i a l s s a i d t h a t t h e r a i n y s p e l l w o u l d c o n t i n u e b y t w o m o r e d a y s a c r o s s t h e r e g i o n D e p u t y D i r e c t o r A g r i c u l t u r e E x t e n s i o n M u h a m m a d Z a f a r t a l k i n g t o A P P s a i d t h a t h e a v y w i n d s w e r e n o t f a v o r a b l e f o r t h e m a n g o o r c h a r d w h i l e t h e h a i l s t o r m i s a l s o a l a r m i n g f o r a l l c r o p s H e s a i d t h a t l i g h t r a i n h a s a p o s i t i v e i m p a c t o n t h e c o t t o n c r o p w h i l e m o r e r a i n w a s n o t s u i t a b l e a s t h e r a i n w a t e r s t a n d i n g i n c o t t o n c r o p c o u l d b e h a r m f u l H e u rg e d t h e c o t t o n g r o w e r s t o c o n t i n u e i n s p e c t i o n o f e a r l y s o w i n g o f t h e c r o p a s j a s s i d s c o u l d a t t a c k o n t h e c r o p H e a l s o a d v i s e d g r o w e r s t o a v o i d s p r a y i n g o n c o t t o n c r o p a s i t c o u l d d e s t r o y t h e b e n e f i c i a l i n s e c t s H e f u r t h e r s a i d a n d a d v i s e d f a r m e r s t o k e e p i n s p e c t i n g t h e i r c r o p s a n d c o n s u l t a g r i c u l t u r e o ff i c i a l s f o r r e m e d i a l m e a s u r e s i n c a s e o f a n y p r o b l e m S ta f f R e p o Rt

Six children drown to death in Sindh ponds

Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi’s close friend Farah Gogi officials said

The GDA department and corporation launched a joint operation to clear the government land on which roads

The Corporation Department also sealed the offices of the G Magnolia Park Housing Society

KARACHI: As many as six children drowned to death while two others rescued in separate incidents in different districts of Sindh on Sunday Rescue sources said that the first incident took place in village Waris Ujan near Tando Masti Khan area of district Khairpur where six children while taking bath in pond of fish farm to beat scorching heat drown Four children died on the spot in the incident while two others were rescued by local people and shifted to hospital in critical condition In another incident in village Rani Vero near Diplo Town of district Tharparkar where two children while playing near a pond fell into it and drowned in the deep water Bodies of children drowned in both incidents were recovered and handed over to heirs S ta f f R e p o Rt

M ay 28 momentous day in national histor y: KP Governor

PESHAWAR S ta f f R e p o R t

Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Haji Ghulam Ali on Sunday said that 28th May was a momentous day in our national history as on this day Pakistan emerged as the first Islamic nuclear power in the world

In a message on the eve of May 28 Yaum-e-Takbeer

Haji Ghulam Ali expressed his pride in this achievement

He said that it was Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto who initiated t h e n u c l e a r p r o g r a m , a n d M u h a m m a d N a w a z S h a r i f

Press conferences galore

the PTI himself As far as I can see, the only people still in the PTI are Mrs Imran Shah

Mehmud Qureshi and Ali Amin Gandapur

m a d e P a k i s t a n a n i n v i n c i b l e n u c l e a r p o w e r t h r o u g h atomic explosions

Haji Ghulam Ali while highlighting the significance of this day said that on May 28 1998 the successful nuclear tests conducted at the Chaghi showcased Pakistan as the first Islamic nuclear power to the world Haji Ghulam Ali emphasized the bravery, unmatched courage and national pride associated with Yaum-e-Takbeer Youm-e-Takbeer serves as a message to the enemies of the nation that those who display aggression against Pakistan will face disastrous consequences he said

Haji Ghulam Ali said on 9th May the enemies of peace and Pakistan set fire to the model of the Chaghi a symbol of Pakistan s nuclear power said Governor Ghulam Ali On Yaum-e-Takbeer the entire nation should announce its separation from those who attack the country s defense installations on the Black Day of 9th May, the Governor added

The Governor said that on Youm-e-Takbeer it was essential to demonstrate our determination to ensure national defense and security and to stay united for the collective welfare of the nation

Y’ know, I’ve decided to join the PTI

Not because I believe in its ideology, which has been that accusation is proof or because I m dedicated to the idea that Imran Khan has a Godgiven right to rule as because I think that is the easiest way to prove that I m against the incidents of May 9, when the Corps Commander ’s house was burnt down, when MM Alam’s plane at China Chowk was destroyed and other military installations were attacked

You see looking at the stream of those leaving the PTI I ve realized that the easiest way of showing my disdain for what happened would be to hold a press conference and announce that, while condemning the May 9 incidents I was leaving the party I wonder why Imran himself hasn’t executed one of his famous U-turns and left

I ve noticed that no one left the party at once immediately after May 9 One of the first big names in the party to leave, former Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari, only left after being first arrested under MPO Section 3 being bailed and then rearrested Imran’s media team has also left him whether it is Fawad Chaudhry or Firdous Ashiq Awan or Fayyazul Hassan Chauhan You might guess things are serious when the secretary general of a party resigns, as Asad Umar has done

Y’know it does seem as if those from military backgrounds have decided to part ways Asad Umar is a case in point He is son of the late Maj-Gen (retd) Ghulam

Umar, who was part of Yahya Khan s inner team in 1971 Then there is Fawad Chaudhry His grandfather, Ch Shehbaz Hussain, founded the family fortunes, one son becoming Punjab Governor another

Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court Ch Shehbaz had been a subedar in the old British Indian Army Actually subedar s sons didn t do too badly: one the son of a rissaldar (the equivalent cavalry rank), became a field marshal and the first military ruler of Pakistan The rissaldar ’s greatgrandson Umar Ayub Khan also served in Imran’s cabinet His father Gohar Ayub Khan was briefly in the Army and went into his father s old unit, 4 Punjab, and his schoolmate and PMA coursemate, Asif Nawaz, also did Now Asif Nawaz’s grand-daughter, Khadija Shah was finally arrested for having led the crowd which torched the house of the Corps Commander Lahore Her sacrifices for the party have been heartrending; not only does her cell lack an AC, but she is not being given mineral water

In fact, Ali Amin Gandapur is the only Army brat I know still in the PTI (his father retired as a major) He has been detained but has yet to hold a press conference Me I would join the PTI only to hold a press conference announcing my departure I would be the first ordinary member to hold such a press conference, for so far we ve ei-

ther been having national or provincial leaders or office-bearers Further I would be the first person to condemn the May 9 incidents without having been arrested

It s interesting that the PM should have called for the Corps Commander s House arsonists to be given the same

CM NAQVI ASSURES LAWYERS COMMUNITY OF PROBLEMS RESOLUTION

LAHORE S ta f f R e p o R t

Adelegation headed by President Lahore High Court Bar Association Rana Intizar Hussain met with the Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi at CM office in which the delegation apprised him about the problems being faced by the lawyers community

The CM assured to resolve the problems of lawyers community on preferential basis He stated that treatment facilities in the hospital would be improved being established for the lawyers community and remarked that he would himself visit the hospital soon Mohsin Naqvi stated that construction

Youme Takbeer teaches us to work for development: CM Bizenjo

QUETTA S ta f f R e p o R t

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus

Bizenjo on Sunday said that the Youm-eTakbeer teaches us to serve collectively for the development, integrity and prosperity of Pakistan In his message on the occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer he said that 25 years ago

(May 28 1998) Pakistan successfully detonated nuclear devices in the Chagi district Balochistan, which made the country s defence impregnable Abdul Quddus Bizenjo said that all the people who made the armed forces and national defense invincible remained steadfast against the odds The chief minister said that Pakistan s defense was strong and its nuclear capability was to uphold the balance of power in the South Asian region He said that by acquiring nuclear capability, Pakistan s geographical borders were secured, he said adding that the armed forces the country’s leadership and our nuclear scientists have performed a commendable and historic feat Bizenjo said that achieving nuclear capability was a matter of pride for the nation and future generations as well saying that the people of Balochistan were proud of the brave armed forces ‘We are proud that we live in a country which is the only nuclear power of the Muslim Ummah he said

of a parking plaza outside Aiwan-e- Adal to resolve traffic and parking problems would be reviewed He directed Deputy Commissioner to allocate a land for the

parking plaza and assured that every possible step would be taken for the lawyers community

The delegation comprised Senior Vice President Asif Amin Goraya, Vice President Nadeem Anjum Khan Vice President Model Town Courts Hadi Hussain Bhatti Vice President Cantt Courts Farrukh Ahmad Khan Secretary General Malik Kafeel Khokhar, Secretary Omar Waqas Warriach and others Provincial Information Minister Amir Mir, Additional Chief Secretary, Secretary Law CCPO Lahore and Deputy Commissioner were also present

E AT H: Taking notice of the death of a newly born baby girl in an incubator of Children s Hospital, Lahore due to over-

No talks after vandalism of militar y installation: Saad

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Talha for implementation of Islamic economic models for harmonious development

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith

Harmony Senator Muhammad Talha

Mahmood emphasized the need to explore alternative economic models that align with Islamic principles Addressing a seminar on Interest-Free Economy, organized by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) he further highlighted the importance of adopting Islamic economic principles Senator Talha shed light on the Islamic perspective on trade and usury drawing from the Holy Quran saying that Allah Almighty had declared trade as halal (permissible), while usury (riba) was unequivocally declared as haram (prohibited) He further reminded the audience of the vision of Quaid-e-Azam who expressed his determination to replace the usury system of the West with an Islamic economic system during the opening ceremony of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on July 1, 1948 He urged the attendees to reflect on the consequences of engaging in usury questioning whether economic prosperity could truly be attained while defying the commandments of Allah Almighty The Senator also highlighted the legal stance on usury, referencing rulings from the Federal Shariat Court and the Supreme Court of Pakistan Both courts had previously declared usury as contrary to the clear commandments of Allah Almighty he added He said the highest court of Pakistan had explicitly ordered the cleansing of the national financial system from usury, deeming it illegal and prohibited even according to the Constitution of Pakistan The seminar served as a platform for participants to engage in thoughtful discussions on interest-free economic systems and explore avenues to promote and implement these principles in the national financial framework It concluded with a renewed commitment from the ICCI to advocate for an interest-free economy in Pakistan in alignment with Islamic principles

heating Punjab Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday constituted a four-member team to probe into the incident and submit a report to him within 24 hours The team would identify those responsible for the death and also recommend action against them During his visit to the hospital the chief minister expressed deep grief and shock over the tragedy and stated categorically that even slightest negligence in looking after the newly born babies would not be tolerated

Provincial health secretary and senior doctors accompanied the CM during the visit He also inquired after other babies admitted in the nursery and also gave necessary instructions to the hospital staff in this regard CM Naqvi also went round other wards of the hospital

Mushaal urges PM, FM to raise voice for Yasin M alik ’s safe

release

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

Mushaal Hussein Mullick the Chairperson of Peace and Culture Organisation and wife of jailed Kashmiri Hurriyat leader, Muhammad Yasin Malik, has urged the government of Pakistan to raise the issue of senior Hurriyat leader Yasin Malik’s detention at all fora globally because the notorious Narendra Modi fascist regime is hell-bent to silence the most powerful voice of Kashmir freedom movement for ever

According to Kashmir Media Service Mushaal in a statement expressed alarm that the fascist government would eliminate Yasin Malik chief of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) as India s infamous National Investigation Agency (NIA) again sought the death sentence for him, after he was given life in prison in a concocted and politically motivated case on May 25 last year for his crime to raise voice for right to self-determination of Kashmiris

She demanded that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari should take up the case of Yasin Malik before the world leaders and at relevant UN forums and in human rights organisations to protect his life The Hurriyat leader stated that her husband s life was in danger because the Indian authorities could not buy his loyalty; hence they were now resorted to hang him to silence the most popular leader of contemporary Kash-

miri freedom fight She said that it was high time for the Pakistani government to play a proactive role to not only save his life but to build maximum pressure on the Indian government to ensure his release from illegal detention Mushaal said that Modi is actually hanging his entire political career down the drain However she vowed that the notorious Indian authorities should not think this would ever silence the brave Kashmiris She warned that Yasin was not an ordinary leader and if anything happened to him the entire region would be engulfed in war flames for which the Indian notorious government would be responsible

The Chairperson recalled that Kashmiri people had been struggling peacefully to break the shackles of Indian slavery and always discourage violence; however she warned that if they approved his death sentence then the situation might go out of control; hence the Indian authorities should not only reconsider their decision of life imprisonment but should set him free because he was incarcerated in fake and fabricated cases Mushaal urged that the United Nations bodies world powers and human rights organisations should raise their voice for safeguarding the life of Yasin Malik and ensure his release from jail who was put in death cell despite fast deteriorating health condition

Pakistan marks anniversar y of nuclear bomb

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

In a message marking the occasion Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized on Sunday that the defense sovereignty dignity and freedom of the country hold paramount importance for the nation, declaring that no one possesses the audacity to strip away its freedom

He reiterated their unwavering commitment to not waver from any sacrifices for the defense unity and national interests

Sharif underscored that the historic day served as a resolute declaration of “no compromise” regarding the country’s sovereignty and defense 25 years ago today the people of Pakistan proclaimed the invincibility of their defense by conducting five nuclear explosions in response to India s nuclear explosions,” he added

The prime minister emphasized the need to carry forward the same spirit demonstrated on Youm-i-Takbir in order to achieve economic sovereignty and self-reliance

He emphasised that this day calls

C J

PHC

for unity in solidarity for the country as it serves as the nation s core strength, and expressed his determination to transform Pakistan into an economic powerhouse through such unity, hard work and unwavering faith

The prime minister paid tribute to the patriotism of deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif who he declared elevated the stature of Pakistan among nations with immense pride

He highlighted that the former prime minister resisted “all pressures and temptations of billions of dollars [sic] enabling Pakistan to become the seventh nuclear power and the first Islamic country possessing nuclear deterrence He also praised the founder of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and paid rich tributes to Benazir Bhutto who as an opposition leader supported then prime minister Sharif s decision to conduct nuclear tests in 1998

I want to tell the youth that there were deep political differences between the government and Benazir Bhutto but she supported the government by setting aside all differences for the sake of the

country he added The prime minister acknowledged the valuable services rendered by the armed forces of the country to its nuclear program, deeming it a golden chapter in the nation’s history He also expressed his appreciation for Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan all scientists engineers and other individuals who contributed to Pakistan s atomic program

F u r t h e r m o r e , t h e p r i m e m i n i s t e r e x p r e s s e d g r a t i t u d e t o S a u d i A r a b i a a n d o t h e r f r i e n d l y c o u n t r i e s f o r t h e i r a s s i s t a n c e t o P a k i s t a n d u r i n g e c onomic sanctions

Highlighting the unwavering resolve of the mountains of Chagai and the significant role of Balochistan province in defending the country, Sharif mentioned that on May 28 1998 the entire world exerted pressure threats and temptations against Pakistan However with the support of the nation and the opposition, the country s leadership accomplished the seemingly impossible

“We also faced economic difficulties The unity of the nation is the real nuclear power of Pakistan he added

On Saturday, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif ruled out any possibility of holding talks with the PTI It comes minutes after PTI chief Imran Khan had formed a seven-member committee to hold negotiations with the PDM-led government Taking to Twitter, he wrote, Talks are held with politicians only No talks will be held with the group that desecrated martyrs’ graves, and terrorists who burned the country ” The PTI committee includes senior vice president Shah Mehmood Qureshi Parvez Khattak Asad Qaisar Haleem Adil Sheikh Aon Abbas Buppi Murad Saeed and Hammad Azhar Some of the leaders Mr Khan named are either in jail, hiding from arrests, or being speculated about leaving the party amid PTI’s mass exodus Earlier PTI chief Imran Khan appealed the political stakeholders to hold immediate talks as the party had been seeing scores of its members parting their ways Mr Khan said whenever he called for dialogue, he began to face mounted pressure Do not dare think that I am weak because whenever I call for it, police come outside my home and warrants are issued ” he added He went on to say that crackdown was launched against the party without investigating the attacks on Lahore s Commander House He asked if anyone would like to harm the army, adding that attacking the army was akin to weakening the country G o v t w i l l r e i n i n e c o n o m i c c r i s i s ‘ w i t h o r w i t h o u t I M F ’ : D a r

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

He said internationally the dollar was getting stronger however in Pakistan he would bring it down to its actual level Senator Ishaq Dar said that human rights are not being violated in the prosecution of perpetrators of May 9 and those responsible for targeting military facilities would be duly apprehended He said that people would not have attacked sensitive installations if they considered the state as a mother He said that peaceful protest is everyone s right, but attacks on defence installations should not be condoned The minister added that talks with Imran Khan can be held now only if he apologizes to the nation admits his mistake and promises not to do anything like May 9 in the future He said that the government negotiated with PTI with sincere intentions and agreed to PTI on all matters except the date of the election, but then they made it the May 9 incident

President commends role of scientists, political, militar y leadership to make Pakistan nuclear power

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

President Dr Arif Alvi on Sunday commended the role and struggle of scientists, engineers, political and military leadership to make Pakistan a nuclear power He felicitated the Pakistani nation on the occasion of 25th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer President Arif Alvi said in response to India s nuclear tests Pakistan conducted nuclear tests 25 years ago on the day that was essential for maintaining the balance of power in the region “We must highly appreciate our political and military leadership that took wise decision at that time to achieve nuclear capability making defense of the country unassailable President Secretariat Press Wing in a press release quoted the president as saying The President said whole nation pays tribute to the contributions of their eminent engineers and scientists who made Pakistan a nuclear power within a short period of time For this our whole nation was indebted to all those who played their part in making Pakistan the 1st Islamic nuclear power, he added The president further said On this day, let us pledge to make Pakistan a stronger country by investing in the intellectual development of our people and strengthening our cyber- security to ensure our defense

urges swif t disposal of family c ases

PESHAWAR

S ta f f R e p o R t

Chief Justice (CJ) Peshawar High Court (PHC) Justice

Mussarat Hilali urged swift disposal of family cases and to provide the best facilities to prisoners She said this in a meeting attended by all District and Sessions Judges of the province, said a press release issued here on Sunday CJ emphasized the significance of family cases and called upon Family Judges to play an active role in foster-

ing social cohesion She urged them to exert diligent efforts in resolving family disputes amicably through persuasive conciliatory sessions thus strengthening the social fabric

Moreover she stressed the urgent need to conclude family cases within the statutory time-line ensuring swift justice for the litigants involved

Having personally visited several prisons in the province since taking office, CJ Hilali expressed deep concern over the deplorable conditions faced by inmates due to overcrowding and inadequate facilities

She highlighted the pressing need for the timely resolution of cases involving under-trial prisoners

Hilali urged District and Sessions Judges to conduct surprise visits to prisons to address the sufferings of the inmates and facilitate their rehabilitation

She affirmed her commitment to combating corruption within the judiciary emphasizing zero tolerance for illicit practices

In conclusion, CJ emphasized the importance of observing the dress code, court timings and the need for strict adherence to professional standards

A JK celebrates silver Jubilee of nuclear tests with zeal

The silver jubilee of nuclear tests by Pakistan was commemorated in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) on Sunday with full zeal and fervor to remember nuclear tests conducted on this day in 1998

Speakers in special ceremonies hosted to mark youm-e-takbeer in various parts of AJK including Mirpur and the capital city of Muzaffarabad to celebrate the historic day, renewed the pledge to lend all of the energies to make Pakistan strong and prosperous PML-N AJK Chapter ’s President Shah Ghulam

Qadir asked his party workers across AJK to manage special ceremonies at all AJK district headquarters to celebrate the day

Strong and prosperous Pakistan in all manners including in the defence and economic sectors is the guarantee to the freedom of Kashmir People of Jammu & Kashmir will leave no stone unturned to make Pakistan strong stable and prosperous besides to safeguard the security and defence of the country” a resolution unanimously passed at a major ceremony hosted in this district by PML-N

In the resolution, rich tributes were paid to all the authors, creators and promoters of the nuclear program

with a peaceful approach including Dr Abdul Qadeer Dr Sammar Muhbarak Mand late Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and most particularly PML N Supreme leader Muhammad Nawaz Shareef for their untiring and sincere role to turn Pakistan a nuclear power in the region

The resolution paid rich tributes to the martyrs of Pakistan including those belonging to valiant armed forces of Pakistan for giving supreme sacrifices of their lives for the safety security and defence of inch after inch of the motherland both during war and in emergent situation in peace times Meanwhile, expressing his views on the eve of the nation-wide silver jubilee celebrations of the nuclear

tests NGO – Jammu and Kashmir Jinnah Foundation’s Chairman Dr Amin Chaudhry said that it was the day of great dignity and honor of Pakistan when Pakistan gave a matching response to the Indian nuclear tests by detonating the nuclear devices this day in 1998

Talking to APP, Dr Amin said that Youm-e-Takbeer ’ has great significance in the history of the defence of the country

Paying rich tributes to the valiant armed forces of the country Dr Amin said that the entire nation including the people of Azad Jammu & Kashmir stands united shoulder to shoulder with the brave armed forces, for the defence of the motherland

Medical confidentiality

TH E R E was much chortling in coalition ranks after Health Services Minister Abdul Qadir Patel made public the report of the medical examination of PTI chief Imran Khan, in which it was claimed that not only was cocaine and alcohol was found in his urine, that his leg showed no sign of his being shot, and that he showed signs of derangement; even though he was also certified as mentally fit to be imprisoned

However there was no mention of the ethical and legal implications Even if it is accepted that a medical examination conducted by a government hospital is credible there is still no ethical justification for it to be handed over to the federal Health Minister, and for him to release it to the public In principle, there should be no release of such information without the permission of the patient, and the public would be left to draw its own conclusions from any refusal

While the tests conducted at the Shaukat Khanum Hospital have been impugned because of his association with it his refusal to submit to tests at any government hospital have damaged the case against his assailants

However, though his tests were conducted now at a hospital officially designated as competent to issue medico legal certificates, the manner the results were treated have now made the hospital doubtful as a source of such certificates While few cases will involve ministerial interference other official interference especially by the local police may well be alleged It will create a possibly impossible situation for a trial court where it is required to throw out all the medical evidence in a case because it originates from a certificate issued by PIMS

Mr Khan s consumption of prohibited substances has been long alleged, while the coalition has also experienced doubts about his mental health It has even been alleged that Mr Khan’s reluctance to be arrested is because he wished to avoid undergoing a blood test It is technically possible to falsify results but it is dangerous

The coalition should remember that PML(N) supremo

Mian Nawaz Sharif was allowed to go abroad after his medical tests, conducted at a government hospital, showed that his platelet count was elevated Medical tests are not supposed to provide political cannon fodder, and medicolegal certificates should only be shared with authorised people which cannot include the Health Minister

R i s e o f I n d i a a n d i m p l i c a t i o n s f o r P a k i s t a n a n d t h e M u s l i m w o r l d

TH E rise of China has forced the West to devise strategies to retain world leadership, or at least be major players in the future West feels that a democratic, capitalist and economically resurgent India is their natural ally in this struggle against communist China Therefore despite its massive human rights violations the West continues to support India A strong India not only helps in containment of China but also possible de-nuclearization of Pakistan, the only Muslim nuclear country, through its balkanization Therefore, the West and its allies are fully supporting India to become an economic and military regional power How would a strong India treat its neighbouring region specially Pakistan the Middle East and the Central Asian Republics (CARs)? India has the World s third largest armed fForces The bulk of these are deployed against Pakistan None of India s large mechanized forces can be used against China due to the Himalayas Indian future behaviour can be predicted from its emerging military capabilities and past employment of its armed forces against its neighbours India militarily invaded Kashmir in October 1947 and since then is in perpetual occupation against multiple UN resolutions It militarily annexed Junagadh and Hyderabad (Deccan) in November 1947 and September 1948 respectively, followed by Goa in 1961 Through employment of its armed forces it captured erstwhile East Pakistan in 1971 and annexed Sikkim in 1975 It intervened militarily in Sri Lanka from 1987-90 and in the Maldives in 1988 The rise of India and its track record of using military instruments to further its policies does not augur well for the regional countries When Indians look at the Middle East and the CARs they see oil-rich sparsely populated and militarily weak countries History has many examples where strong countries always found reasons to occupy or dominate economically prosperous, resource-rich but militarily weak neighbours Indian interests in the region are not hidden Th3n Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, while addressing senior military officers in 2004 said “Our strategic footprint covers the region bounded by the Horn of Africa West Asia (Middle East) CARs Afghanistan and South Asia and beyond to the far reaches of the Indian Ocean Pakistan is the only hurdle to these aggressive Indian designs Pakistan is like a dam, holding back a billion -plus Indians from coercing the /middle East and CARs into subjugation Therefore Indian strategic thinkers openly advocate balkanization of Pakistan into weak client states Pakistan in future will play the same role in the east for the Muslim world

against India as Ottomans played in the west against Europe See what happened to the Middle East and CARs once the Ottomans became weak and then collapsed The CARs were occupied by Russia and the Middle East carved into multiple weak client states after World War I The Western world has trampled and exploited the Middle East s Muslim countries at will since the demise of the Ottomans India has a very poor track record of dealing with its neighbours The Indian rise as a powerful state is a fact and its associated implications for the region cannot be overlooked Though China has also risen as a World power, it has to be understood that China’s strategic heartland is along the Pacific due to the location of the bulk of its population and major industrial areas H i s t o r i c a l l y, C h i n a h a s

n e v e r v e n t u r e d m i l i t a r i l y

b e y o n d i t s g e o g r a p h i c a l b o u n d a r i e s T h e I n d i a n h e a r t l a n d e c o n o m i c i n t e re s t s a n d l o n g c o a s t l i n e m a k e s i t a s o u t h e r n a n d w e s t e r n A s i a - c e n t r e d c o u n t r y

Imran Khan has accomplished much

Perhaps Imran Khan s most significant achievement is the awakening he has brought to the 230 million people of Pakistan He has injected a spirit of resilience, determination, and fearlessness into the hearts and minds of his compatriots Imran Khan has shattered the notion that success is unattainable for Pakistanis With his unwavering belief in the potential of his country, he has sparked a national movement towards progress and prosperity

Sahibzada

IM R A N K H A N is a name that resonates with the hearts of millions of Pakistanis and has left an indelible mark on the nat i o n s h i s t o r y A s a n i n d i v i d u a l , h e s t a n d s o u t a s t h e o n l y P a k i s t a n i w h o will be spoken of for centuries to come His journey is one of triumph perseverance and a relentless pursuit of excellence From winning the cricket World Cup to setting up the Cancer Hospital Namal Knowledge City and i n s p i r i n g a n a t i o n , I m r a n K h a n h a s a c c o mplished what others failed to achieve in the 75year history of Pakistan Imran Khan’s journey to greatness began on the cricket field where he captained the Pakistani cricket team to victory in the 1992 World Cup His leadership skills determination and unwavering belief in his team s abilities propelled Pakistan to the pinnacle of cricketing success This victory not only brought glory to the nation but also instilled a sense of pride and unity among Pakistanis

Imran Khan’s triumph on the cricket field served as a powerful metaphor for the potential and resilience of the Pakistani people

However, Imran Khan s achievements extended far beyond the cricket field In the face of personal tragedy when his mother fell victim to cancer, he embarked on a mission to establish the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre This noble endeavour showcased his compassion philanthropy and commitment to the well-being of his fellow countrymen The hospital, which provides state-of-the-art cancer treatment to countless patients regardless of their ability to pay stands as a testament to Imran Khan’s unwavering dedication to serving humanity

Another milestone in Imran Khan s journey of accomplishments is the establishment of Namal Knowledge City Recognising the importance of education and knowledge in transforming a nation, he envisioned a worldclass educational institution that would empower the youth of Pakistan Namal University located in Mianwali provides quality education in various disciplines fostering innovation critical thinking and leadership among its students Imran Khan s commitment to education is paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come

Yet, despite all these accomplishments, Imran Khan’s journey is far from over Pakistanis around the world eagerly await his continued leadership and guidance The Pakistani diaspora spread across the globe looks up to him as a beacon of hope and inspiration It is time for Imran Khan to venture beyond the borders of Pakistan, to share his God-gifted knowledge and wisdom with the world His name is already counted among the likes of Nelson Mandela and Mahathir Mohamad and it is essential for him to visit world-renowned think

tanks, engage in international dialogues, and contribute to global discussions on much needed key issues I m r a n K h a n h a s f e a r l e s s l y a n d c o u r ag e o u s l y a c h i e v e d w h a t o t h e r s c o u l d n o t a ccomplish in the 75 years of Pakistan s history P a k i s t a n i s w o r l d w i d e l o v e a n d s a l u t e h i m H i s l e g a c y a s a rg u a b l y o n e o f t h e g r e a t e s t

c r i c k e t e r s w h o e v e r g r a c e d t h e c r i c k e t i n g field, philanthropist, and a nation s leader is already etched in the annals of Pakistan’s hist o r y H o w e v e r t h e w o r l d e a g e r l y a w a i t s h i s wisdom and guidance It is time to take your m e s s a g e o f h o p e r e s i l i e n c e a n d d e t e r m i n at i o n b e y o n d t h e b o r d e r s o f P a k i s t a n I m r a n Khan, the world is ready to listen, learn, and be inspired by you

The writer is Special Assistant to the former Prime Minister Imran Khan for Trade & Investment in the UK & Europe Founding member and worker of PTI

Yet, despite all these accomplishments, Imran KhanÊs journey is far from over. Pakistanis around the world eagerly await his continued leadership and guidance . The Pakistani diaspora, spread across the globe, looks up to him as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It is time for Imran Khan to venture beyond the borders of Pakistan, to share his God-gifted knowledge and wisdom with the world His name is already counted among the likes of Nelson Mandela and Mahathir Mohamad, and it is essential for him to visit world-renowned think tanks, engage in international dialogues, and contribute to global discussions on much needed key issues

Nuclear Pakistan with a strong economy is a guarantor of sovereignty of Middle Eastern countries and the CARs Unfortunately there are certain people in and outside Pakistan who in the name of religion (TTP) sub-nationalism or political gains are pursuing the agenda of substantially weakening or balkanization of the country They are either deliberately or inadvertently advancing the Indian agenda

N u c l e a r Pa k i s t a n w i t h a s t r o n g e c o n o my i s a g u a r a n t o r o f s o v e r e i g n t y o f

M i d d l e E a s t e r n c o u n t r i e s a n d t h e C A R s

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, t h e r e a r e c e r t a i n p e o p l e i n a n d o u t s i d e Pa k i s t a n , w h o i n t h e n a m e o f r e l i g i o n ( T T P ) , s u b - n a t i o n a l i s m o r p o l i t i c a l g a i n s a r e p u r s u i n g t h e

a g e n d a o f s u b s t a n t i a l l y w e a k e n i n g o r b a l k a n i z a t i o n o f t h e c o u n t r y.

During World War I, Arabs revolted against Turkey in the name of regional sovereignty (Lawrence of Arabia may be remembered) Resultantly Muslim rulers (Turks) were replaced by European hegemony and Israeli humiliation was planted in their midst If ever the misguided groups working against Pakistan are successful, the whole region would go under Indian hegemony Anti-Muslim policies of BJP and their quest for revenge from Muslim invaders must be kept in mind The Muslim world and the people of Pakistan must realise that only Pakistan can provide a counterbalance to future Indian designs in the region

The writer retired as a major general from the Pakistan Army

E d i t o r ’ s m a i l

S e n d y o u r l e t t e r s t o : L e t t e r s t o E d i t o r Pakistan Today 4 - S h a a re y F a t i m a J i n n a h L a h o re P a k i s t a n E - m a i l : l e t t e r s @ p a k i s t a n t o d a y c o m p k L e t t e r s s h o u l d b e a d d re s s e d t o Pakistan Today e x c l u s i v e l y

Choosing leaders

A S elections are in the air, we should take a moment to reflect on their significance These elections mark a turning point for the nation as we continue to work out the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead The stakes are high and the outcome of elections will have a profound impact on the future of Pakistan

It is essential that we have a free and fair electoral process that reflects the will of the people We must ensure that all eligible voters have the opportunity to cast their ballots and that their voices are heard

In addition, we must demand that our elected officials put the nation’s needs and concerns above all else Our country is facing many challenges including economic instability social inequality and political unrest

We need leaders who are committed to addressing these issues and who have a clear vision and plan for moving the country forward

As citizens we have a responsibility to involve ourselves in the democratic process and to hold our elected officials accountable We must demand transparency, accountability and integrity from our leaders, and we must work together to create a better future for all Pakistanis

All Pakistani voters should take the elections seriously and need to exercise their right to vote sincerely Let us work together to create a brighter and more prosperous future for the country and for our future generations They both deserve better

IBRAHIM IMRAN KARACHI

A blunder?

L I A Q U AT Ali Khan was Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s nominated successor He was in power as prime minister from 1948 till he was assassinated in 1951 As a new dominion what Pakistan needed first and foremost was a constitution

Jinnah formed the constituent assembly to prepare the constitution but obviously had no time to play a role as he passed away within a year after the inception of Pakistan India on its part got its constitution in 1949 That constitution is still in play

Even Indira Gandhi, who imposed a state of emergency, could not fiddle with the constitution Such is the respect they gave to the constitution and this is the respect it deserves in a constitutional setup

Here in Pakistan in the three crucial and formative years no effort was made to start the process of making a constitution Liaquat did not even convene a single session of the constituent assembly to start the process

The country suffered immensely, for when Liaquat was assassinated, there was no constitutional setup to determine an orderly transition The result was that by intrigue Ghulam Muhammad who was a financial bureaucrat and had no connection with the Muslim League or national politics took over as the governor-general appointing Khawaja Nazimuddin the prime minister

Now started the circus with prime ministers being dismissed and a new prime minister coming in almost every year if not sooner In 1954, Ghulam Muhammad arbitrarily dissolved the constituent assembly as it suited him He was finally replaced by Iskander Mirza Who was he? A deputy commissioner

So just because we did not have a constitution by intrigue power shifted into the hands of the bureaucrats and finally came the man with the gun Had the constituent assembly formed by Jinnah been active in those three formative years under Liaquat, Pakistan would have been a different country today

Why did Liaquat avoid starting the process of making a constitution, especially when Jinnah had formed a constituent assembly for this purpose?

It should be some food for thought for historians bith locally and globally

TH E Supreme Court is hearing a review petition filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan against its order whereby it fixed 14 May as the date for election in Punjab and the announcement of the relevant schedule for holding it In the review petition it has been pointed out that fixing a date for election is not the mandate of the Supreme Court under the Constitution and such powers existed somewhere else

The petition further prays that the framers of the Constitution did not grant the courts the jurisdiction to assume the role of public bodies and that while passing the order under review the Court disregarded its constitutional jurisdiction necessitating correction of an error which has effectively changed the settled constitutional jurisprudence of the country

It is not tenable as to why the ECP took so long to file the review petition which should have been done immediately after the verdict was announced by the threemember bench headed by the CJP But as is said, it is never too late The petition has been filed under Article 188 of the Constitution which says The Supreme Court shall have power subject to provisions of any Act of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and of any rules made by the Supreme Court to review any judgment pronounced or any order made by it

The position taken by ECP is absolutely right The Supreme Court while delivering the verdict violated the Election Act 2017 which assigns the responsibility of announcing the date of election to the President after consultation with the Commission and makes it obligatory on the ECP to announce the schedule of elections

The Act also empowers the ECP to change the announced date by recording the reasons for such a change In this regard Sections 57 and 58 of the Act are relevant Perhaps it would be in order to quote the texts of both these sections of the Act for the benefit of the readers Section 57(1) says The President shall announce the date or dates of the general elections after consultation with the Commission Section 58 of the Election Act 2017 reads Notwithstanding anything con-

I t i s n e v e r t o o l a t e

Judicial overreach can still be rec tified

tained in section 57, the Commission may, at any time after the issue of the notification under sub-section (1) of that section make such alterations in the Election Programme announced in that notification for the different stages of the election or may issue a fresh Election Programme as may in its opinion to be recorded in writing be necessary for the purposes of this Act

The ECP acted in conformity with the first verdict of the Supreme Court which it delivered after taking suo motu notice of delay in elections in Punjab Paragraph 14 of the Order said “The ECP would act in conformity with sections 57(1) and 58 of the Election Act 2017

The ECP fully complied with the Supreme Court decision It did consult the President who announced April 30 as the election date as per requirement of section 57(1) of the Election Act However when ECP did not receive the required support from security institutions to perform duty at the polling stations as well as the finances required for election it justifiably postponed the elections in terms of the powers conferred on it by section 58 of the Election Act 2017

The developing situation does not augur well for the countr y and its future as a democratic entity Either the Parliament or the judiciar y will have to step back to defuse the situation In my view the review petition filed by ECP has provided a good oppor tunity for an escape route to the judiciar y by reviewing its verdicts which in itself represent a breach of the Constitution.

The UK’s stance on international students?

In the light of the above facts the Supreme Court verdict OF April 4 in which it held that the postponement of the election date by ECP as unconstitutional and that it did not have the power to do so is bereft of any legal or constitutional basis The ECP s decision to postpone election date is not only legal but is also covered by Article 254 of the constitution which reads When any act or thing is required by the constitution to be done within a particular period and it is not done within that period the doing of that act or thing shall not be invalid or otherwise ineffective by reason only that it was not done within that period

As is evident the action of the ECP enjoyed the protection of section 58 of the Election Act as well as Article 254 of the Constitution Therefore it could not be declared as unconstitutional The ECP acted according to Election Act 2017 which is an enactment of Parliament and no court can give any verdict against its clauses unless the Act itself is declared against the Constitution

The Supreme Court while announcing the date of election and announcing its schedule actually usurped the powers of another constitutional body in breach of the trichotomy of powers as enunciated in the constitution

The judges clearly seem to have trespassed into the territory of another constitutional institution and also delivered a verdict which has no constitutional or legal basis Judges whether of the lower courts or the highest court are bound to adjudicate in conformity with the law and the constitution and not act like medieval Kings who were laws unto themselves

It is most regrettable to note that some of the verdicts given by the SC amidst the burgeoning political crisis in the country are not marvels of jurisprudence

They have aggravated the political crisis in the country The Supreme Court went beyond the domain of its constitutional powers while rendering its opinion

on Article 63-A of the Constitution which amounted to rewriting the Constitution In doing so it encroached upon powers of Parliament

As if the foregoing indiscretions committed by the Supreme Court were not enough it took another unprecedented step by staying the implementation of the Supreme Court Review of Judgments and Orders Bill 2023 even before it received the nod of approval from Parliament The constitutional and legal experts believe that nothing of sort has ever happened in the history of jurisprudence in any country of the world The courts cannot prevent the parliament from enacting a law However they can have a look at it to see whether the law is in conformity with the Constitution or not after it is passed by the parliament

The cumulative effect of the judicial overreach is that it has created an ambience of confrontation between judiciary and Parliament which has not only rejected the verdict of the Supreme Court in regards to election date but has also taken a strong exception to the stay order given on the Supreme Court Review of Judgments and Orders Bill 2023

The developing situation does not augur well for the country and its future as a democratic entity Either the Parliament or the judiciary will have to step back to defuse the situation In my view the review petition filed by ECP has provided a good opportunity for an escape route to the judiciary by reviewing its verdicts which in itself represent a breach of the Constitution The judicial history of the world is replete with instances where the judiciary has rectified the wrong decisions given by it The Supreme Court of the USA is reported to have reviewed 146 such cases

Malik Muhammad Ashraf is an academic He can be contacted at: ashpak10@gmail com

pass – a sort of Life in the UK test in reverse –in which citizens learn what it s really like

For now, let me reassure you: the UK is very much in control of its borders

As a veteran of visa applications, I can tell you that the average UK visa process is as probing extensive and invasive as it gets But this doesn t stop the Home Office from regularly introducing a new requirement and presenting it to the public as the supposed closing of a loophole, bringing us closer to whatever it is that counts as an acceptable level of net migration Last week it was time for international students to feel the heat

From next year with a few exceptions students coming from overseas will be barred from bringing their dependants with them when they come to study in the UK

Last year, almost 500,000 visas were issued to international students – a category that now includes both EU and non-EU though the vast majority are the latter – to study in the UK

Along with them came just over 135 000 immediate family members – a figure that the government sees as a nice, meaty number to hack at What they don t see are women with small children, families without child-supporting networks back home and students who – reasonably –would not like to be separated from their partners for a long time It is a mark of the government s inability to be honest about the country s need for immigrants that it is scrambling around for some numbers to cut, and in so doing, targeting a cohort of people that brings in huge amounts of revenue pay into the NHS and prove in advance that they will not be a burden on the state

But we don t hear about that do we?

Or about how high the hurdles for entry and settlement already are Before even being allowed into the UK, international students must demonstrate that they have a place at an accredited British academic institution and have enough funds to cover their course plus an additional sum to cover living expenses Dependants have to be able to prove that they have the funds to sustain themselves – £845 a month for up

All applicants students and their dependants pay an NHS surcharge; a master s student with one partner and one child needs to pay £1,410 in advance of setting foot in the UK They will also continue paying this surcharge every year if they find work and so will effectively be taxed twice to use the health service Dependants are defined as partners and any children under 18 Not as one talking head from Conservative Home said on the BBC last week, their grandmas That sort of poorly informed discourse has helped turn what is a very good news story for the country – that the UK is becoming a thriving global hub of revenuegenerating international students – into a bad one about unacceptably high migration numbers The reality is that international students, particularly non-EU ones, are playing a massive role in financing the country’s higher education system while being a net contributor to the economy Research from 2021 shows that just 10 non-EU students studying in the UK will generate £1m of economic impact during their studies in terms of fees, consumer spending and job creation – and that’s after their use of public services has been accounted for Non-EU student fees made up 17% of UK universities income in 2020-21 – in effect cross-subsidising the education of domestic students The fees they pay are astonishingly high, averaging some £22,000 a year So high, in fact, and scandalously divorced from the actual cost of delivery are these fees that the director of Soas University of London recently said that such students are being exploited in a morally problematic higher education system that has become reliant on overseas students That system, he said, would collapse” if just China and India were to “close the taps”

Well Suella Braverman is here to help: introducing a policy that will punish and turn away what is by government standards the ideal migrant – someone who only puts into the system, meets strict standards of entry and residence, and has the good sense to clear off afterwards It’s tempting to ascribe this poor judgment to Braverman herself but let s not forget that the home secretary is simply doing what British politicians have done for years particularly since David Cameron called for net migration to be reduced to tens of thousands and the introduction of the hostile environment: making the lives of foreigners as miserable expensive and lonely as possible All to “get the numbers down Labour for their part have said they won t oppose the measure The tragedy is that so much of what we were told Brexit was about – pivoting away from Europe towards the Commonwealth and the rest of the world; investing in our “world-beating” homegrown industries – is personified in the international student They have a cultural affinity with the UK recognise the prestige of degrees from British universities and the value of being here to their careers and global relevance But all the government can see in them is a useful number to cull – economic units to be stripped of relationships choice and humanity

IN 2002, former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and his wife attended an elegant dinner party hosted by Barbara Walters Other participants included Time editor Henry Grunwald one-time ABC Chair Thomas Murphy and Peter Jennings then the anchor of ABC World News Tonight

At one point in the evening, as New York magazine recounted, Jennings addressed Kissinger and asked him “How does it feel to be a war criminal Henry?”

Kissinger did not respond However Grunwald informed Jennings that this inquiry was unsuitable Walters, who considered Kissinger the most loyal friend, later said, “I tried to change the subject, but it was a very uncomfortable moment [Kissinger ’s wife] Nancy reacted very strongly and hurt There are several notable things about this

First the people at the top of American society absolutely love Henry Kissinger He is their beloved compatriot, and they are anxious to protect his delicate feelings

Second Jennings sincerely believed that Kissinger was a war criminal and unusually was willing to say this in private Yet he didn t have the courage to say this in public to his audience of tens of millions of Americans Presumably he then would no longer be invited to these sorts of parties

Third, Kissinger ’s fancy, famous, rich pals will not exactly dispute that Kissinger is a monster Rather bringing it up is an embarrassing social faux pas like say mentioning how everyone knows that your buddy is cheating on his wife, who is sitting next to you Why would you want to spoil the mood just when we’re all feeling toasty from the Chambertin Grand Cru and having such a lovely time?

Think of how Kissinger lives ensconced in the silken embrace of wealth and power when you read Nick Turse s new reporting on his actions while in office Kissinger, it turns out, was responsible for even more misery and death in the U S bombing of Cambodia than was already known which is truly saying something

At the top of the pyramid Kissinger enjoys endless banquets and oceans of accla-

mation During the Nixon administration Kissinger was beloved by Hollywood often literally He spoke at the 1996 funeral for a less prominent war criminal, Thomas Enders, an event also attended by David Rockefeller (John D ’s grandson, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, CEO of Chase Manhattan Bank) Paul Volcker (chair of the Federal Reserve who said The standard of living of the average American has to decline ) Amalia Lacroze de Fortabat (an Argentinian billionaire), and Gustavo Cisneros (a Venezuelan billionaire)

At the height of the Iraq War, Vice President Dick Cheney reported that “I probably talk to Henry Kissinger more than I talk to anybody else He just comes by Hillary Clinton referred to Kissinger as a friend and I relied on his counsel when I served as secretary of state (Clinton rearranged her schedule giving an award to designer Oscar de la Renta so both she and de la Renta could attend Kissinger ’s 90th birthday ) In 2014 he attended a Yankees game with noted humanitarian Samantha Power who later received an award both named after and presented to her by Kissinger He served on the board of the fraudulent company Theranos with Jim Mattis, the Marine Corps general who’d go on to be Donald Trump’s secretary of defense and George Shultz who was secretary of state for Ronald Reagan Kissinger joked that he didn t ask questions of Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of Theranos, because We were all afraid of her ”

This week, the Washington Post granted Kissinger ’s son David president of Conan O Brien s production company space to tell us that to enjoy his 100th birthday Kissinger is participating in centennial celebrations that will take him from New York to London and finally to his hometown of

Fürth Germany ” One of the kickoff events was held at the Yale Club in Manhattan: Then consider those down at the bottom of the pyramid: the Cambodians, Vietnamese, Laotians, Timorese, Pakistanis, Latin Americans, and many more, whose lives and bodies were torn to shreds by Kissinger (The “many more” here includes U S soldiers whom Kissinger referred to as dumb stupid animals to be used ) Here is what Turse writes about one such person he met while reporting in Cambodia: Round-faced and just over 5 feet tall in plastic sandals, Meas Lorn lost an older brother to a helicopter gunship attack and an uncle and cousins to artillery fire For decades one question haunted her: I still wonder why those aircraft always attacked in this area Why did they drop bombs here? But Meas Lorn will never, ever get an answer Turse describes an encounter with Kissinger when he was able to pass her inquiry along: When pressed about the substance of the question that Cambodians were bombed and killed Kissinger became visibly angry What are you trying to prove? he growled and then, when I refused to give up, he cut me off: Play with it, he told me “Have a good time ” I asked him to answer Meas Lorn’s question: “Why did they drop bombs here?” He refused “I’m not smart enough for you Kissinger said sarcastically as he stomped his cane I lack your intelligence and moral quality He stalked off Play with it It is bracing indeed to understand that the people who run this country find this kind of human being charming and delightful It makes you wonder if there are any killers from history who they would not celebrate assuming the killers had conducted their slaughter with the aim of keeping America s elites rich, warm, and safe behind a phalanx of guns

Malik MuhaMMad aShraf

H e n r y K i s s i n g e r, h i s t o r y ’ s b l o o d i e s t s

i a l c l i m b e r

U S , S A U D I A R A B I A C A L L F O R

E X T E N D E D C E A S E F I R E I N S U D A N

JEDDAH Ag e n c i e s

SAUDI Arabia and the United States called on Sunday for the extension of a ceasefire deal that has brought some let-up in a six-week war between military factions but little humanitarian relief for civilians Clashes could be heard overnight and on Sunday in the capital Khartoum residents said while human rights monitors reported deadly fighting in El Fashir, one of the principal cities in the western region of Darfur

The conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that erupted on April 15 has left the capital reeling from heavy battles lawlessness and a collapse in services driving more than 1 3 million people from their homes and threatening to destabilise the region

A week-long ceasefire brokered in Saudi and US-led talks in Jeddah is due to run until Monday evening Both countries are remotely monitoring the truce which has been repeatedly violated, and called on the army and the RSF to continue discussions to reach agreement on extending the ceasefire”

“While imperfect an extension nonetheless will facilitate the delivery of urgently needed humanitarian assistance to the Sudanese people Saudi Arabia and the US said in a joint statement

The RSF has said it is ready to discuss the possibility of renewal and that it

would continue to monitor the truce to test the seriousness and commitment of the other party to proceed with the renewal of the agreement or not”

The army said it was discussing the possibility of an extension

More than 300 000 people have crossed Sudan s borders since the fighting erupted with the largest numbers heading north to Egypt from Khartoum or west to Chad from Darfur

In Khartoum, factories, offices, homes and banks have been looted or destroyed Power water and telecommunications are often cut there are acute

Paris Saint-Germain

win record 11th

French title

PARIS

A f p Paris Saint-Germain clinched a French record 11th league title on Saturday as Lionel Messi scored in a 1-1 draw away at Strasbourg Messi s opener was cancelled out by a Kevin Gameiro equaliser, but the result gave PSG an unassailable four-point lead over second-placed Lens with one match of the season remaining PSG moved ahead of the previous record of 10 titles set by Saint-Etienne in 1981 and which they equalled a year ago under former coach Mauricio Pochettino It is PSG s ninth title in the last 11 seasons, a period in which they have dominated French football under Qatari ownership PSG started the penultimate weekend of the season six points clear of nearest rivals Lens with just six points to play for and with a far better goal difference In the end they needed only the draw to be officially confirmed as champions with a game to spare as Lens eased to a 3-0 win over already-relegated Ajaccio Kylian

Mbappe set up Messi to put PSG ahead just before the hour mark with his 16th Ligue 1 goal this season

Ex-Paris striker Gameiro equalised with 11 minutes left bundling in the rebound after Gianluigi Donnarumma had saved from Morgan Sanson The draw ultimately suited both teams as it enabled Strasbourg to guarantee their top-flight survival PSG started the season superbly and did not lose a game in any competition before the World Cup

ICC Chairman, CE to visit Lahore on Tuesday

LAHORE

s tA f f R e p o R t

ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and Chief Executive

Geoff Allardice will arrive in Lahore on Tuesday morning on a two-day visit, during which they will meet Chair of the PCB Management Committee Mr Najam Sethi (also an ICC Director), PCB Chief Operating Officer Barrister Salman Naseer and other board officials according to a PCB information on Sunday

While Mr Allardice has regularly visited Pakistan first as ICC General Manager – Cricket and then as ICC

Chief Executive, this will be Mr Barclay s first visit to Pakistan Mr Barclay will be the first ICC Chairman to tour Pakistan since ICC President Ray Mali’s visit in 2008 This will also be the first time since October 2004 when both the top two ICC officials will together visit the Pakistan cricket headquarters

MEDIA OPPORTUNITY:

Members of the media will be allowed to cover the arrival of the ICC Chairman and Chief Executive at the Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday, 30 May, at 11 45am

For further information, please contact Mr Raza Kitchlew (+923018440280) At the end of the visit the PCB will provide broadcast quality video clip of the ICC Chairman and ICC Chief Executive which the media will be free to use for editorial purposes

Seeking death penalt y for Yasin Malik by NIA deeply disturbed IIOJK people: Mir waiz

SRINAGAR

Ag e n c e s

shortages of medicines and medical equipment, and food supplies have been running low

“We left because of the impact of the war I have children and I fear for them because of the lack of medical treatment ” said one resident of the capital 29-yearold Samia Suleiman speaking to Reuters from the road to Egypt I also want my children to have a chance of schooling I don t think things in Khartoum will be restored soon ” Some respite from fighting The truce deal has brought some respite from heavy fighting but sporadic

clashes and air strikes have carried on

The United Nations and aid groups say that despite the truce they have struggled to get bureaucratic approvals and security guarantees to transport aid and staff to Khartoum and other places of need

Warehouses have been looted Violence has flared in several parts o f D a r f u r a l r e a d y s c a r r e d b y c o n f l i c t a n d d i s p l a c e m e n t , w i t h h u n d r e d s o f deaths recorded in El Geneina near the b o r d e r w i t h C h a d d u r i n g a t t a c k s t h a t residents blamed on “Janjaweed” milit i a s d r a w n f r o m A r a b n o m a d i c t r i b e s with links to the RSF

Russia unleashes largest drone attack on Kyiv ahead of city ’s founding anniversar y

KYIV UKRAINE

Ag e n c i e s Russia unleashed waves of air strikes on Kyiv overnight in what officials said appeared to be the largest drone attack on the city since the start of the war as the Ukrainian capital prepared to celebrate the anniversary of its founding on Sunday Ukraine s Air Force said it downed 52 out of the 54 Russialaunched drones, calling it a record attack with the Iranian-made kamikaze drones It was not immediately clear how many of the drones were shot over Kyiv

In what also appears to be the first deadly attack on Kyiv in May and the 14th assault this month, falling debris killed a 41-year-old man Mayor Vitali Klitschko said

The pre-dawn attacks came on t h e l a s t S u n d a y o f M a y w h e n t h e capital celebrates Kyiv Day, the ann i v e r s a r y o f i t s o ff i c i a l f o u n d i n g

1 ,

5 4 1 y e a r s a g o T h e d a y i s t y p ic a l l y m a r k e d b y s t r e e t f a i r s l i v e concerts and special museum exhib i t i o n s p l a n s f o r w h i c h h a v e b e e n m a d e t h i s y e a r t o o b u t o n a smaller scale

The history of Ukraine is a

long-standing irritant for the insecure Russians Andriy Yermak the head of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy s office said on his Telegram channel

Air Force said on Telegram that Russia had targeted military and critical infrastructure facilities in the central regions of Ukraine and the Kyiv region in particular Reuters was unable to independently verify the information

With a Ukrainian counteroffensive looming 15 months into the war, Moscow has intensified air strikes after a lull of nearly two months, targeting chiefly military sites and supplies Waves of attacks now come several times a week

The Sunday attacks came after Kyiv said that combat clashes eased around the besieged city of Bakhmut in southeastern Ukraine, the site of the war ’s longest battle Serhiy Popko the head of Kyiv’s military administration said the attack was carried out in several waves, and air alerts lasted more than five hours

“Today, the enemy decided to ‘congratulate’ the people of Kyiv on Kyiv Day with the help of their deadly UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) Popko said on the Telegram

messaging channel

Several districts of Kyiv by far the largest Ukrainian city with a population of around three million suffered in the overnight attacks, officials said, including the historical Pecherskyi neighbourhood

Reuters witnesses said that during the air raid alerts that started soon after midnight many people stood on their balconies some screaming offensives directed at Russia s President Vladimir Putin and Glory to air defence” slogans

In the leafy Holosiivskyi district in the southwestern part of Kyiv falling debris set a three-storey warehouse on fire destroying about 1 000 square metres of building structures

Mayor Klitschko said

A fire broke out after falling drone debris hit a seven-storey nonresidential building in the Solomyanskyi district west of the city The district is a busy rail and air transport hub

In the Pecherskyi district, a fire broke out on the roof of a nine-storey building due to falling drone debris, and in the Darnytskyi district a shop was damaged Kyiv’s military administration officials said on Telegram

Jeers rain down as Kostyuk refuses to shake hands with S abalenk a at French O pen

PARIS A f p

Aryna Sabalenka kept her cool to win a politicallycharged French Open duel against Marta Kostyuk on Sunday as jeers rained down after the defeated Ukrainian refused to shake hands with her Belarusian opponent World number two and Australian Open champion Sabalenka swept 10 of the last 12 games to win 6-3 6-2 as she kick-started her push to reach the second week in Paris for the first time

Kostyuk honoured her pledge not to shake hands with Sabalenka in protest at Russia’s invasion of Ukraine Belarus is a key military ally of Moscow

“It was a very tough match tough emotionally I didn t know if the booing was against me but thank you so much for your support it s really important said Sabalenka who performed a theatrical bow to the sparse Court Philippe Chatrier crowd

Kostyuk, 20, famously refused to shake hands with Belarusian compatriot and former world number one Vicoria Azarenka at the US Open last year

S h e o p t e d i n s t e a d f o r a c u r s o r y t o u c h o f r a c q u e t s

a t t h e n e t T h e 3 9 t h - r a n k e d K o s t y u k h a s b e e n a v o c i fe r o u s c r i t i c o f t h e d e c i s i o n t o a l l o w R u s s i a n a n d B el a r u s i a n p l a y e r s t o k e e p c o m p e t i n g o n t o u r s i n c e t h e i n v a s i o n o f h e r c o u n t r y I f s h e h a t e s m e O K I c a n t d o a n y t h i n g a b o u t t h a t s a i d 2 5 - y e a r- o l d S a b a l e n k a o n t h e e v e o f t h e m a t c h A b o u t t h e n o s h a k i n g , I c a n k i n d o f u n d e r s t a n d t h e m L i k e I i m a g i n e i f t h e y r e g o i n g t o s h a k e h a n d s w i t h R u s s i a n s a n d B e l a r u s i a n s , t h e n t h e y ’ r e g o n n a g e t s o m a n y m e s s a g e s f r o m t h e i r h o m e c o u n t r i e s ”

If they feel good with no shaking hands I m happy with that This year sees a new era at the French Open where for the first time since 2004 Rafael Nadal will not grace the famous red clay Injured Nadal, the 14-time champion, sits out the 2023 edition of a tournament where he has lost just three of 115 matches In his absence Novak Djokovic a twotime winner and the man responsible for two of Nadal s three career losses in Paris will look to edge ahead of the Spaniard with a record-setting 23rd major

However, he faces serious threats from the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev, currently the world’s top two players ahead of Djokovic

China’s first homegrown passenger jet makes maiden

BEIJING

Ag e n c e s

China s first domestically produced passenger jet made its maiden commercial flight on Sunday, a milestone event in the nation s decades-long effort to compete with Western rivals in the air B e i j i n g h o p e s t h e C 9 1 9 c o m m e r c i a l jetliner will challenge foreign models like t h e B o e i n g 7 3 7 M A X a n d t h e A i r b u s

A320, though many of its parts are sourced from abroad Its first homegrown jetliner with mass commercial potential would also cut the country’s reliance on foreign technology as ties with the West deteriorate In the future most passengers will be able to choose to travel by large domesti-

cally produced aircraft, state broadcaster CCTV said

China Eastern Airlines flight MU9191 from Shanghai arrived smoothly in Beijing just after 12:30 pm around 40 minutes ahead of schedule according to CCTV F o o t a g e s h o w e d p a s s e n g e r s f i l i n g o u t o f t h e p l a n e a n d i n t o t h e t e r m i n a l , b e f o r e a f e w d o z e n s t a f f a n d o f f i c i a l s p o s e d f o r p h o t o g r a p h s i n a b r i e f c e r em o n y o n t h e t a r m a c

(The flight) was extremely smooth

S t a t e m e d i a f o o t a g e s h o w e d p a s s e ngers gathering at the sun-drenched Shangh a i a i r f i e l d t o a d m i r e t h e s l e e k w h i t e j e t b e f o r e e m b a r k i n g P a s s e n g e r s r e c e i v e d r e d b o a r d i n g p a s s e s a n d a s u m p t u o u s t h e m e d m e a l t o c o m m e m o r a t e t h e f l i g h t , C C T V r e p o r t e d Other footage showed passengers wavi n g n a t i o n a l f l a g s a n d s i n g i n g a p a t r i o t i c song while a cake was being cut during the f l i g h t C h i n a h a s i n v e s t e d h e a v i l y i n t h e p r o d u c t i o n o f t h e h o m e g r o w n j e t a s i t s e e k s t o b e c o m e s e l f - s u ff i c i e n t i n k e y

technologies

The aircraft is manufactured by the stateowned Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), but many of its parts including its engines are sourced from overseas

In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir All Parties Hurriyat Conference senior leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has said that seeking death penalty for the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front chief Muhammad Yasin Malik by the Indian infamous National Investigative Agency (NIA) has deeply disturbed the people of the territory According to Kashmir Media Service, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in a statement issued in Srinagar said unfortunately one after other such directives and decrees are brought in by the authorities who claim peace and development is their agenda It seems a deliberate attempt to provoke and intimidate people and add to their concerns and fears, he added He urged the Indian government, all political parties and the people of India to release all illegally detained Kashmiri political detainees and hundreds of youth students journalists rights activists and traders lodged in different jails in India and the occupied territory The statement said the release of all innocent detainees will send a message of conciliation which will act as a catalyst for earning people’s trust and go a long way in resolving the lingering Kashmir dispute

‘MODI REGIME CONSPIRING TO ELIMINATE YASIN MILK

All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) Senior Vice Chairman Ghulam Ahmed Gulzar has said that Indian kangaroo courts have always disappointed Kashmiris According to Kashmir Media Service, Ghulam Ahmed Gulzar in a statement issued in Srinagar said these biased courts functioning under the influence of Hindutva elements are victimizing and punishing Kashmiris for demanding their birthright to self-determination He said the Modi regime is conspiring to eliminate Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman Muhammad Yasin Milk through its court by implicating him in concocted cases Seeking capital punishment of Yasin Milk by Indian notorious National Investigation Agency (NIA) court is a deep-rooted conspiracy of judicial murder of another popular Kashmiri leader Ghulam Ahmed Gulzar lamented that the evil nexus of government and anti-Muslim Indian judiciary had claimed lives of many innocent Kashmiris and judicial murder of prominent Kashmiri martyrs Muhammad Maqbool Butt and Muhammad Afzal Guru are the recent examples of sheer injustice meted out to Kashmiris Afzal Guru was executed to satisfy the so-called collective conscience of Indian people which is blot on the face of Indian judiciary, he added

Oman’s Sultan in Iran for talks on diplomatic, securit y issues

DUBAI Ag e n c e s O m a n s S u l t a n H a i t h a m b i n Ta r i q a l - S a i d a r r i v e d i n Te h r a n o n S u n d a y f o r a t w o - d a y v i s i t e x p e c t e d t o f o c u s o n r e g i o n a l d i p l o m a t i c a n d s e c u r i t y i ss u e s , I r a n i a n s t a t e m e d i a r e p o r t e d , t w o d a y s a f t e r M u s c a t m e d i a t e d a p r i s o n e r s w a p b e t w e e n I r a n a n d B e l g i u m O m a n h a s l o n g b e e n a n i n t e r l o c ut o r f o r t h e We s t w i t h I r a n a n d h a s m e d i a t e d t h e r e l e a s e o f s e v e r a l f o r e i g n c i t i z e n s a n d d u a l n at i o n a l s O n F r i d a y, O m a n h e l p e d s e c u r e t h e r el e a s e o f a B e l g i a n a i d w o r k e r, w h o w a s a r r e s t e d i n 2 0 2 2 a n d s e n t e n c e d t o 4 0 y e a r s i n p r i s o n a n d 7 4 l a s h e s o n c h a rg e s i n c l u d i n g s p y i n g , i n e xc h a n g e f o r a n I r a n i a n d i p l o m a t s e n t e n c e d t o 2 0 y e a r s i n p r i s o n i n c o n n e c t i o n w i t h a f a i l e d b o m b p l o t i n F r a n c e B u t d o z e n s o f f o r e i g n e r s a n d d u a l n a t i o n a l s r e m a i n i n j a i l i n I r a n m o s t f a c i n g e s p io n a g e a n d s e c u r i t y - r e l a t e d a c c u s a t i o n s R i g h t s g r o u p s h a v e c r i t i c i s e d t h e a r r e s t s a s a t a c t i c b y Te h r a n t o w i n c o n c e s s i o n s f r o m t h e We s t b y i nv e n t i n g c h a rg e s w h i c h Te h r a n d e n i e s H a i t h a m i s e x p e c t e d t o m e e t I r a n i a n P r e s i d e n t E b r a h i m R a i s i t o d i s c u s s i s s u e s s u c h a s Te h r a n s s t r a i n e d t i e s w i t h E g y p t a n d I r a n s d i s p u t e d n u c l e a r p r og r a m m e , I r a n i a n s t a t e m e d i a r e p o r t e d T h e v i s i t c o m e s a s I r a n a l s o f a c e s r e n e w e d c r i t i c i s m o f i t s h u m a n r i g h t s r e c o r d a n d a l l e g a t i o n s t h a t R u s s i a i s u s i n g I r a n i a n d r o n e s i n i t s w a r i n U k r a i n e Te h r a n d e n i e s s u p p l y i n g t h e d r o n e s f o r u s e i n w a r E ff o r t s b y s i x w o r l d p o w e r s t o r e v i v e Te h r a n s 2 0 1 5 n u c l e a r d e a l h a v e s t a l l e d s i n c e l a s t S e p t e m b e r a m i d g r o w i n g We s t e r n f e a r s a b o u t t h e c l e r i c a l e s t a b l i s h m e n t s r a p i d l y a d v a n c i n g n u c l e a r p r o g r a m m e

commercial flight

Zhang Xiaoguang, COMAC’s director of marketing and sales, told state news agency Xinhua the flight was a “coming-ofage ceremony (for) the new aircraft adding the C919 will get better if it stands the test of the market

IMPORTANT MILESTONE

From Monday, the C919 will operate on China Eastern’s regular route between Shanghai and the southwestern city of Chengdu CCTV reported The first model of the narrow-body jet was formally handed over to China Eastern last year during a ceremony at an airport in Shanghai, hailed by state media as “an important milestone” for the country’s aircraft industry Zhang Yujin COMAC’s deputy general manager told state-backed Shanghai outlet

The Paper in January that the company had taken around 1,200 orders for the C919 COMAC planned to increase annual production capacity to 150 models within five years Zhang said at the time Asia and China in particular are key targets for European manufacturer Airbus and its American rival Boeing, which are looking to capitalise on growing demand for air travel from the country’s vast middle class Last month Airbus said it would double its production capacity in China signing a deal to build a second final assembly line for the A320 in Tianjin The first assembly site in the northern city opened in 2008 and produces four A320s a month, with Airbus hoping to increase that to six per month before the end of the year

CORPORATE CORNER

PNS Shahjahan par ticipates in LIMA expo at Malaysia

RESEARCHERS FROM PAKISTAN, CHINA DEVELOP NEW METHOD TO TREAT CELIAC DISEASE

LANZHOU X i n h ua

AN international research team has developed a new method to treat celiac disease, according to Lanzhou University in northwest China s Gansu

Province

The study conducted by Chinese Pakistani and other overseas researchers has been published in the journal Food

Research International

Aman Khan leader of the study and a Pakistani postdoctoral fellow at Lanzhou University has been engaged in research related to the treatment of celiac disease for several years

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Shahjahan on Sunday visited Port Langkawi Malaysia and participated in Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) 2023

The visit of PN Ship is aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance interoperability between participating navies a Pakistan Navy news release said Upon the arrival at Port Langkawi the ship was warmly welcomed by the official of Malaysia Navy and Defence attaché of Pakistan at Malaysia

During meetings with Malaysian officials, the Commanding Officer of the ship conveyed well wishes from Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi for the people of Malaysia in general and Malaysian Navy in particular The matters of mutual interest bilateral collaboration and PN contribution towards regional peace and maritime security were discussed

PAF salutes Pakistani nation's resolve on Youm-e-Takbeer

ISLAMABAD: On the silver jubilee of the conduct of nuclear tests by Pakistan marking the historic day of Youm-e-Takbeer, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) salutes the resolve of the entire Pakistani nation According to the PAF spokesperson on 28 May 1998

Pakistan demonstrated its nuclear capability by conducting nuclear explosions in response to provocative Indian nuclear tests The Pakistan Air Force played a crucial role in safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation during this time by transporting the nuclear device and sensitive equipment to the test site through it's C-130 aircraft whereas it's fighter jets provided aerial cover prior and during the tests S ta f f r e p o rt

Pakistan to expor t juicy cherries to China

ISLA MA BA D S ta f f r e p o r t

Pakistan is all set to export juicy cherries to China in the coming weeks as the harvesting season started in the country

A 14-member Chinese business delegation visited Gilgit-Baltistan where they signed multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) this week to facilitate cherry trade, according to a report published by Gwadar Pro on Sunday The delegation assessed the local cherry production and inspected cherry orchards packing units and cold storage facilities aiming to explore the potential of importing cherries to Chinese markets said an official statement Pakistan and China have also launched two new air cargo routes to strengthen connectivity between the two countries The new routes will link Nanning, the capital of China’s Guangxi autonomous region with the Pakistani cities of Karachi and Lahore These flights aim to facilitate the transportation of Pakistani fruits and seafood to China while also delivering Chinese clothing accessories and other goods from Nanning to the Pakistani market This year, the cherry farmers anticipate doubling their incomes and profits as China has indicated opening its doors to importing cherries for the first time from Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) which shares borders with China added the statement Mohammad Ali Quaid the special assistant to the GB chief minister said that the key approval would come from the Chinese quarantine department which is planning a visit to GB to pave the way for exports Export of cherries from Pakistan to China would commence once all necessary procedures are met China is the leading importer of cherries with imports valued at $2 66 billion in 2021 according to data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC) In recent years, cherry has emerged as GB s main cash crop

Around 8,000 metric tonnes of cherries are harvested each year in the scenic region, generating around Rs700 million in revenue annually according to Javed Akhtar deputy director at GB’s agriculture department The cherry season spans from May to July

Some of the cherry varieties grown in the region are Bing, Chelan, Rainier, Lepin and Tulare, according to a government study

According to Aman, the disease, an immune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, is quite common in Asian countries including Pakistan as they eat lots of food made of flour which contains gluten He hopes to use his knowledge to help people affected by this disorder Inspired and supported by his advisor

QUETTA S ta f f r e p o r t

C h i e f C o l l e c t o r, C u s t o m s

Balochistan, Muhammad Saleem on Sunday said that Balochistan C u s t o m s h a s s o f a r c o l l e c t e d R s 2 1 b i l l i o n i n t h e f i s c a l y e a r 2022-2023 as Customs Duty out o f t h e t a rg e t o f R s 2 1 5 b i l l i o n g i v e n b y t h e F e d e r a l B o a r d o f

Revenue With the establishment o f t h e b o r d e r m a r k e t i n M a n d , employment opportunities will be provided to the local people and the supply of fresh fruits and vegetables will benefit the people living in the border areas of the two countries, he said Muhammad Saleem said that under the joint border market initiative both countries have established markets on their respective sides of the border and the people living in the border areas would get special

Li Xiangkai a professor with the environmental microbiology group under Lanzhou University, Aman has been isolating probiotic bacterial strains from Pakistani fermented sourdough bread so as to use them in preventing the occurrence of celiac disease A c c o r d i n g t o A m a n t h e c e l i a c d i s -

e a s e t r e a t m e n t i d e a w a s t a k e n f r o m a

tax concessions on 152 items

He said that all the arrangements regarding these markets have been given to the respective Deputy Commissioners who will ensure their supervision and monitoring He said that people could purchase goods of worth from 50 to 100 dollars in these markets H e s a i d t h a t t h e s e m a r k e t s a r e v e r y u s e f u l i t w i l l r e d u c e t h e p r o b l e m s f a c e d b y t h e p e op l e o f t h e a r e a a n d i n c r e a s e t h e b o r d e r t r a d e , c o m m e r c i a l a n d b u s i n e s s a c t i v i t i e s i n t h e a r e a B e s i d e s e x p a n d i n g t r a d e b et w e e n t h e t w o c o u n t r i e s f a c i l it i e s a n d o p p o r t u n i t i e s w i l l b e e n s u r e t o m e e t t h e t a rg e t o f 5 b i l l i o n d o l l a r s b y i n c r e a s i n g t h e c u r r e n t 2 b i l l i o n d o l l a r s

He said that after the inauguration of Pishin-Mand border market the Balochistan government would develop six more joint mar-

p r e v i o u s s t u d y c o n d u c t e d b y t h e i r g r o u p T h e p r e v i o u s s t u d y i s o l a t e d a p r o b i o t i c s t r a i n f r o m J i a n g s h u i , a t r a d i t i o n a l C h i n e s e f e r m e n t e d f o o d , w h i c h c o u l d d e g r a d e u r i c a c i d a n d u pr e g u l a t e g u t m i c r o b i o t a T h e y t h e n m a d e y o g u r t w i t h t h e s t r a i n a n d c o nd u c t e d a t w o - m o n t h h u m a n t r i a l o n 1 2 0 v o l u n t e e r s w i t h h y p e r u r i c e m i a

kets at mashkel, washuk, Chidgi, Gobd and other areas in the region to usher a new era of progress

Traders operating in these markets have been given special concessions For the convenience of the people of these areas, Customs has deployed its staff by making special arrangements regarding clearance in the said market with the aim that people do not face problems he expressed He said that despite the lack of manpower and resources in Balochistan, Customs was performing its services to prevent smuggling and collect other duties H e s a i d t h e g o v e r n m e n t h a s given us additional responsibilit i e s t o p r e v e n t s m u g g l i n g o f wheat, flour, urea and sugar, for which we have set up joint check posts and are working in collaboration with others law enforcement agencies

ISLAMABAD

The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) said it had foiled four separate bids to smuggle over 844 5 kilogrammes of drugs in total in the country

According to a statement, the ANF launched four operations in different areas of the country and arrested four smugglers besides seizing the drugs

In one of the operations the ANF acting on an in-

ISLAMABAD S ta f f r e p o r t

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Trade Development

Authority Pakistan (TDAP) Mohammad Zubair Motiwala has said that the government was working on priority basis to promote exports from Pakistan

There is a special focus on trade relations with regional countries the solution to Pakistan s economic problems lies in reducing imports and increasing exports he said He said that the role of the business community was key to get Pakistan out of the current economic problems and added, the TDAP will provide full support in projects like construction of Expo Center in Islamabad, a display center in the Chamber and FM radio In a meeting with President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ahsan Zafar Bakhtavari on the occasion of his visit to the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry the other day Zubair Motiwala said that the performance of Islamabad Chamber during the last one year was an example for other chambers, said a press release issued here on Sunday

telligence tip-off conducted a raid and foiled an attempt to smuggle drugs from the provincial capital of Quetta to Sindh

A team chased a pickup vehicle bearing a fake official identification and recovered 700 kilogrammes of hashish and arrested a driver who was wearing a fake official uniform said the statement The anti-narcotics police have registered separate cases against the accused and launched investigations to trace drug networks

t s : M o t i wa l a

H e s a i d t h a t t h e m a i n o b j e c t i v e o f T D A P w a s t o s o l v e t h e p r o b l e m s o f t h e b u s i n e s s c o m m u n i t y and ens ure acces s of P akis tani goods to every mark e t i n t h e w o r l d The economic problems will be solved only if Pakistan s trade increases

Speaking on this occasion, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari said that Trade and Development Authority of Pakistan had a key role in the promotion of Pakistan's trade relations

R e s u l t s s h o w e d t h a t t h e J i a n g s h u i - y og u r t e x h i b i t e d h i g h d e g r a d a t i o n c a p a ci t y f o r u r i c a c i d

Guided by his advisor Aman and his team members have successfully isolated probiotic bacterial strains called LZUGM from Pakistani fermented sourdough bread and finished a series of experiments on mice

“According to our experiment results and integrative analysis isolated LZUGM provides evidence that it can relieve adverse effects of gluten additive food and balance gut microbiota in mice, said Aman, adding that further clinical trials will be needed to determine the safety and efficacy of probiotics in fermented sourdough bread as a treatment for celiac disease Li Xiangkai said they will make yogurt with LZU-GM strains isolated from Pakistani sourdough bread and continue to conduct related experiments “We are confident that the new solution will be a therapeutic adjunct agent in treating celiac disease added Li

IWMB educating village population to avoid killing leopard

ISLAMABAD S ta f f r e p o r t

Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) Chairperson Rina Saeed Khan on Sunday said the Board was educating the village population of 32 villages existing inside the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) during jumma prayer s sermon to avoid leopard killing and habitat intrusion The IWMB after witnessing a thriving population of endangered Common Asian Leopards and other wildlife species expedited its conservation, education and preservation efforts to protect the world's unique and living ecosystem nourishing along a human settlement the Chairperson told APP in an exclusive interaction to share her insights on the story behind the success of Leopard preservation in MHNP Rina Saeed Khan said the Board used to hold training for the village population to avoid killing leopards by educating them on prevention and safety measures to abstain leopard encounters "Leopards are not interested in going into villages There have been cases that goats have been attacked by leopard but that needs to be probed and we will work out some compensation mechanism as well However the prevailing economic conditions are not viable," she said She underlined that urbanisation in the federal capital and population boom had extended human frontiers to wild areas

In 1980 Margalla Hills National Park was designated as a protected area and it was a small trip in the sprawling forest area not big as it was between capital and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province

TEV TA announces free technic al courses during summer vac ations

LAHORE: The Punjab Industries Department in partnership with the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA) would offer free of cost technical courses to students of government schools during summer vacations Departments of Industries, School Education and Higher Education would collaborate to organize these courses in nine divisions of Punjab, including Bahawalpur Lahore Gujranwala Multan Rawalpindi Sahiwal Sargodha Faisalabad and Sialkot city The students would not be required to pay any fee for these courses TEVTA Spokesman Aman ullah told APP on Sunday He explained that these courses would cover a vast range of skills, including domestic electricity courses, heating and ventilation, plumbing, air-conditioning, tailoring, refrigeration computer applications beautician cooking safety inspection kitchen gardening embroidery and offset printing S ta f r e p o r t

CDA all set to auction commercial plots

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is all set to auction commercial plots in Blue Area and other developed sectors of the federal capital, beginning on May 29, aiming to generate more revenue for the city and attract investors to participate in the auction Talking to APP on Sunday an official in the Authority urged interested investors to participate in the auction which will take place at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad The development is expected to have a significant impact on the commercial estate market in the capital city He said that the auction in various sectors of the Islamabad capital territory would continue till May 31 adding that the Authority has already publicized the auction schedule of various plots in different newspapers

Direc t flights between Karachi, Kuala Lumpur soon, says Malaysian HC

ISLAMABAD S ta f f r e p o r t

Malaysian High Commissioner (HC) to Pak-

istan Mohammad Azhar Mazlan has said that the direct flight between Kuala Lumpur and Karachi would be started soon to strengthen economic and people to people contacts between Pakistan and Malaysia

Mohammad Azhar Mazlan said this during the meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

(KP) Minister for Industries Commerce and Technical Education Mr Adnan Jalil here in Malaysia s High Commission in Islamabad the other day, said a press release issued here on Sunday H e s a i d , " A f t e r t h e r e s t o r a t i o n o f d ir e c t a i r f l i g h t c o n n e c t i v i t y w i l l m a k e e c on o m i c t r a d e a n d s o c i a l i n t e g r a t i o n b e t w e e n b o t h c o u n t r i e s s t r o n g e r a n d m o r e s u s t a i n a b l e S i m i l a r l y b i l a t e r a l c o o p e r at i o n a n d d e v e l o p m e n t i n t h e f i e l d o f t o u r i s m b e t w e e n b o t h f r i e n d l y c o u n t r i e s w i l l

l s o i n c r e a s e "

development of Malaysia is due to the long and medium economic plan which is adjusted after a period of every five years " He said that his social reforms also played an important role in the development of Malaysia "

On the occasion he said The volume of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Malaysia requires further increase "

The Malaysian HC said, "I especially invites the businessmen of KP to play their full role in this process and cooperation to build relations with them "

He said that the business community trade bodies and private sector have crucial role in the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries "

The envoy said, "There is a need for further improvement in bilateral trade between Pakistan and ASEAN regions " H e f u r t h e r s a i d P a k i s t a n a n d Malaysia enjoy historical ethnic and cultural relations which cover many areas and w e w a n t t o p a s s - o n t h i s h e r i t a g e t o o u r young generation "

The HC said, "The two countries have cordial bilateral relations and while the people of both countries have also been bonded in strong mutual relations He said Many families of KP have migrated to Malaysia long decades ago and now there are strong ties between the families of both sides "

He said People in both Pakistan and Malaysia are fond of tasty food and there are similarities in the food and drink of both countries "

On the occasion, talking to both cultures and cosine he said "There is a similarity in the use of spices in both countries that's why the taste of the food of both countries is quite similar

He thanked the minister for inviting him for participate in the inauguration of ASEA Trade Desk at Federation Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI)

On the occasion Minister of Commerce and Industry KPK Adnan Jalil expressed his good wishes for the Malaysian HC for his posting in Pakistan H e w a s i n v i t e d t o b e t h e M a l a y s i a n A m b a s s a d o r t o p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e i n a u g ur a t i o n o f t h e A S E A N Tr a d e D e s k i n t h e M a l a y

A n t i - n a r c o t i c s fo r c e fo i l s b i d s to s m u g g l e ove r 8 4 4 kg d r u g s

G ov t wo r k i n g o n p r i o r i t y b a s i s to p ro m o te ex p o r

‘ S O M E P E O P L E ’ H A LT E D C O U N T R Y ’ S J O U R N E Y T O

P R O S P E R I T Y B Y ‘ P U L L I N G D O W N ’ M Y G O V T S : N AW A Z

g MARYAM NAWAZ SAYS HER FATHER ’S DECISION OF ATOMIC EXPLOSION MADE COUNTRY ’S DEFENCE STRONGER

LAHORE

S ta f f R e p o R t

PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif on Sunday regretted that some people had tried to pull his legs during his three government tenures when he aimed to ensure that Pakistan remained ahead in development and prosperity

Addressing a PML-N rally in Lahore to commemorate the silver jubilee of Youm-iTakbeer the date of Pakistan s nuclear tests

Nawaz said that going ahead with the tests despite all international pressures and offers was the real absolutely not

“We do not carry aggressive designs against anyone but cannot permit anyone to look at us with a dirty eye It has always been my wish for which I made efforts that Pakistan remains ahead in development and prosperity as well but what can I do unfortunately I have to say, that some people began pulling my legs

“This happened in 1993, again in 1999

and you saw it happened in 2017 as well

Who knows what fear these people have of me that they want to ruin a smiling and thriv-

ing country,” the former premier said

He contrasted the high difference in current economic indicators and prices with 2017 saying that he had always strived to serve the nation but I am still sad that all three times I was deprived of advancing this sacred mission due to some excuse

Mentioning his government’s economic performance and achievements, he said they should not be forgotten but compared to those who had arrived and only destroyed

Pakistan

Expressing good wishes for the country

Nawaz said he had said much the same before and the country was going forward in a positive direction but “it is unfortunate that those derailing [us] from that track are still present in this society ” Nawaz said those who had thrust Pakistan into the fires of hate misguided the nation, sacrificed the youth for their impure aims and pushed the country back many

Gwadar Int’l Airpor t launches night landings, boosting connectivit y

PR OFIT

S ta f f R e p o R t

Gwadar International Airport has taken a significant step towards bolstering its air travel capabilities with the initiation of night landing operations The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced the launch on Sunday, allowing flights to arrive and depart during night hours at the country’s largest airport located in Gurandani 26km east of Gwadar city In accordance with the new directive the CAA has prohibited overnight parking for commercial airlines and aviation companies at the Gwadar airport Only military aircraft and those affiliated with the Balochistan government will be permitted to park overnight at the facility This development marks a pivotal milestone as it enables the airport to welcome local and international flights even after sundown The New Gwadar International Airport project financed through a grant from the Chinese government as part of the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), played a crucial role in facilitating the expansion With an estimated cost of $230 million, the airport’s construction not only created 3,000 job opportunities but also provided a significant boost to the local economy

Ijazul Haq refutes rumours about PML-Z-PTI merger

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan Muslim League Zia (PML-Z) chief Ijazul Haq refuted rumours of his party merger with Pakistan

Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) As per details in response to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) the son of former military dictator Ziaul Haq and PML-Z chief Ijazul Haq said the news regarding his party’s merger with PTI was fake He said that in a meeting with the PTI chief Imran Khan, he discussed alliance with PTI but not a merger The ECP sought an answer from the PML-Z chief Ijazul Haq about his party position On March 19, it was reported that Pakistan Muslim League Zia (PML-Z) chief Ijaz-ul-Haq formally joined Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) The son of former military dictator Zia-ul-Haq and PML-Z chief Ijaz-ul-Haq met Imran Khan today After the meeting Haq announced to formally join Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf

years were unveiled

Maryam pays tribute to politicians scientists engineers and defence personnel

PML-N Senior Vice President and Chief Organizer Maryam Nawaz also addressed the rally and paid tribute to the politicians, scientists, engineers and defence personnel who had played crucial roles in the country’s nuclear programme

Maryam Nawaz said the unwavering commitment and dedication of Nawaz Sharif towards the nation made the country s defence more stronger by making atomic explosions on May 28, 1998 She said that the then leadership led by Nawaz Sharif took daring step to give a befitting response to India’s atomic explosions

She added that then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif refused to take any pressure by international forces including billions of US dollars offer to stop the atomic explosions

Maryam Nawaz said that whenever Nawaz Sharif was given a chance to serve the nation he took the country towards progress and prosperity as he launched various mega projects including Motorways, Metro bus, Orange Line Metro Train Loadshedding was eliminated through generation of more than upto 12 000 megawatt electricity while peace was restored in Karachi

She said that only PML-N workers and leaders remain steadfast and loyal with the party despite the worst victimization during

the PTI rule PTI leadership invoked its followers towards chaos and put the entire country on fire on May 9 whereas the PMLN leadership made the country prosper with strong defence, she mentioned

The PTI chief first made fake stance of foreign conspiracy against them and now they are seeking help from the same country which showed their dual faces ” she said and regretted that PTI leadership prepared its workers and followers for creating chaos in the country under a plan

Imran says staged rape claim ‘plot to preemept horror stories ’

LAHORE

S ta f f R e p o R t

Imran Khan accused Rana Sanaullah Khan of attempting a “cover-up” after the interior minister claimed intelligence agencies intercepted a plan by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to stage a raid and rape at a known party leader s house to gain sympathy as the military seeks to destroy former prime minister s support ahead of elections

Khan’s response came after the minister called a news conference at midnight to allege that agencies under him had intercepted a telephone conversation discussing the sinister plan to fabricate human rights violations and atrocities in the government of Shehbaz Sharif

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

A magnitude 6 0 earthquake has rattled much of Pakistan, sending panicked residents fleeing from homes and offices, and frightening people e v e n i n r e m o t e v i l l a g e s t h e P a ki s t a n M e t e o r o l o g i c a l D e p a r t m e n t

(PMD) said

The epicentre of the earthquake which occurred at 10:50 am, was located at the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border, with a depth of 223 kilometres, according to Radio Pakistan

The Associated Press of Pakistan reported that tremors were experienced not only in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad but also in several other cities, including Lahore, Peshawar, Swabi, Swat, and the northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan

He however did not present any evidence to support his claim Separately in a tweet he asserted that the ultimate objective behind this scheme was to falsely implicate law enforcement agencies in the crime and subsequently raise the issue at an international level But a suspicious former prime minister believed Sanaullah was “so obviously trying to cover up and pre-empt the horror stories about to break in the media If there were any doubts about women being mistreated in jails, this press conference from this certified criminal should remove all such doubts,” Khan tweeted He also observed that “women have never been so mistreated and harassed by the state as they have been by this fascist

[government]” for “exercising their right to protest peacefully ” Khan s brief arrest earlier this month sparked days of street protests freighted with anger at the army perceived to have orchestrated his downfall in April last year Islamabad labelled the violence “anti-state”, justifying huge roundups and the revival of notorious military courts to try protestors including women who targeted government buildings Journalists lawyers and activists in the party report campaigns of intimidation and influence which they blame on the establishment The media has previously reported instances of security personnel’s inappropriate behaviour towards women affiliated with the opposition party One

has announced that a 5 2 magnitude earthquake occurred approximately 35 kilometres southeast of Jurm village in Afghanistan

Earthquakes are more likely in this region because it lies at the juncture of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates A magnitude 7 6 quake in October 2005 killed thousands of people in Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir

There have been no reports of any damages thus far

According to Indian media the tremors which lasted for a few seconds were also felt in occupied Kashmir across the capital city of Delhi, and parts of the northwestern states of Punjab and Haryana

The US Geological Survey (USGS), a renowned American government agency responsible for monitoring seismic activity worldwide

In March at least 19 people were killed and more than 200 wounded after a 6 5-magnitude earthquake shook large parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan

Before that, in June of last year, more than 1 000 people were killed after a 5 9-magnitude quake struck Afghanistan s Paktika province the nation s deadliest in nearly a quarter of a century

Elderly man pulled out alive af ter 28 hours buried in Gilgit snow

GILGIT S ta f f R e p o R t

An elderly man miraculously emerged alive from beneath a blanket of snow in the Astore district of Gilgit-Baltistan after a grueling 28-hour ordeal triggered by an avalanche At least 11 people died and 13 were wounded, all of them from Punjab, after an avalanche hit members of a nomadic tribe as they crossed Shounter Top Pass late on Friday according to the dis-

aster management agency The pass which is located at 4 420 meters (14,501 feet) above sea level, connects the Astore district of Gilgit-Baltistan to the bordering Kashmir valley

In summer the nomads move goat herds from the plains of Punjab to the high grasslands in the Kashmir valley and then onwards to the adjoining Gilgit-Baltistan through the Shounter Pass

A remarkable hours-long rescue operation, spearheaded by Astore Rescue

1122 successfully managed to save the lives of three people who were swiftly transported to the District Headquarters Hospital in Astore for medical attention Muhammad Hussain, 70, the final survivor to be found on Saturday was pulled out from the snow by dedicated rescue officials Wazir Asad Ali the media officer for Astore Rescue 1122 expressed relief saying that all three rescued individuals are currently receiving treatment and are in stable condition

With the rescue mission now concluded the recovered bodies are being prepared for transportation to Punjab

The Pakistan Army and police collaborated closely with the regional administration and rescue teams offering invaluable support throughout the operation to locate and save the victims Pakistan which in recent years has faced record monsoon rains and glacier melt in northern mountains, is among the top 10 countries at risk of natural disasters due to climate change

ISTANBUL, TURKIYE

ag e n c i e S

President Tayyip Erdogan claimed victory in Turkiye’s presidential election on Sunday a win that would steer his increasingly authoritarian rule into a third decade Addressing supporters, Erdogan said voters had given him the responsibility to rule for the next five years

“The only winner is Turkiye ” he said addressing cheering supporters from atop a bus in Istanbul Final official results have yet to be released PM SHEHBAZ CONGRATULATES ERDOGAN Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Erdogan ahead of the final official results saying that he was one of few world leaders whose

such incident involved a police raid on the house of former minister Usman Dar where his mother was allegedly manhandled and harassed by the police Additionally, women protesters have been beaten and dragged by the police on multiple occasions Meanwhile, Islamabad police urged officials to ensure that surveillance cameras in stations offices and prisons were working properly to avoid plans to target officials The police claimed without evidence that a planned campaign to defame institutions had been initiated under which officials, regardless of their post, would be targeted “While all women are respectable, some can be used in this campaign ” it said calling on officials to keep matters transparent to avoid such tactics

PTI’s Ayub says ICT Police ‘stole’ vehicle during raid on his home

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

Newly-appointed secretary general of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Omar Ayub on Sunday accused the Islamabad police of taking away his vehicle during a raid on his residence In a tweet, the former federal minister claimed that cops from Islamabad’s Shalimar police station raided his house at around 12:30am without a search warrant and stole his parked Toyota Hilux Twin Cabin Model 2011 [The[ Islamabad police [are] indulging in illegal searches and now vehicle thefts he added Members of the judiciary, civil servants and diplomats should take care of their vehicles as the police [have] resorted to stealing vehicles to top up their salaries in these super high inflationary times!! ” he continued Ayub also pondered where was he supposed to have a case registered for his stolen vehicle as the police themselves were allegedly involved in the act Do I ask the thieves to catch the thieves? , he raised the question Ayub was appointed the PTI’s secretary general after Asad Umar stepped down from the post on Wednesday “This is a great honour and I shall endeavour to work incessantly for Pakistan and PTI I will try my utmost to come up to the expectations of the chairman and our PTI members, Ayub had tweeted back then In a related development, former adviser to the prime minister on interior and Accountability Mirza Shahzad Akbar also claimed that the law enforcement agencies had raided his Islamabad residence and taken away his brother Everyone knows I am not in country but Rangers and police (25-30 armed) attacked my house in Islamabad at 1am, broke doors and kidnapped my younger brother, he tweeted Earlier, PTI sources said police had raided the residences of Malik Wajid, Haji Shaukat Ali Arbab Sher Ali Murad Saeed and Ayesha Bano

politics has been anchored in public service He has been a pillar of strength for the oppressed Muslims and a fervent voice for their inalienable rights His presidential victory and that of AKP in parliamentary elections is significant in so many ways, reflecting the trust and confi-

dence of the Turkish people in his dynamic leadership

The bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkiye will continue to stay on an upward trajectory I keenly look forward to working with him to further deepen our strategic partnership in line with the excellent brotherhood between our two peoples Shehbaz tweeted FM BILAWAL GREETS ERDOGAN

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the “historic victory reflects the trust of the Turkish nation in his visionary leadership Wishing Türkiye eternal peace and prosperity as we continue our unique journey of brotherhood There was no immediate response to Erdogan s victory speech from his challenger, Kemal Kilicdaroglu

O n l y w i n n e r i s Tu r k i ye : E r d o g a n c l a i m s v i c t o r y i n p r e s i d e n t i a l e l e c t i o n

Par ts of countr y rattled by strong 6.0 magnitude ear thquake