Epaper_23-07-17 ISB

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W I L L H O N O R W H AT E V E R P U B L I C ’ S D E C I S I O N W I L L B E I N P O L LS : P M S H E H B A Z

g URGES MA SSES TO KEEP ‘ FACTS ’ BEFORE MAKING DECISION A S IT WILL ‘ DECIDE COUNTRY ’S FUTURE’

LAHORE

PR I M E Minister Shehbaz

Sharif on Sunday said that it is the people’s decision of who they wished to bring to power but he urged them to keep facts before them as they made the decision that would decide the future course of the country”

Addressing an event held at the Governor House in Lahore to distribute cheques to the youth as part of the government s Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Scheme, Shehbaz vowed that he would honour whatever the public s decision will be”

“And if it is indeed Nawaz Sharif that you choose in the upcoming polls then I promise that we will collectively turn the entire situation around and put this country on the path to prosperity, he said

The premier stressed, I am not saying that you should vote for Nawaz Sharif or me, I am only asking that you take into consideration the evidencebased image and testimonials before you as well as the destruction brought on [the country] during the last four years [during PTI regime s term]

g REGRETS ‘ HIS LEADER NAWAZ ’ WA S OUSTED FROM POWER DESPITE PUTTING COUNTRY ON PATH TO PROSPERITY

merit across Punjab The success of the loan scheme could be gauged from the fact that 99 per cent of loans were returned to banks, he added

The prime minister maintained that Nawaz and the PML-N leadership had experienced the worst kind of political vendetta to the point that they were sent into exile after ouster from power but stressed that even then the party supremo never thought of going against the country Shehbaz said that the previous government was brought to power through fraudulent elections and it kept on attacking the opposition for the corruption charges they faced during its four years in power but failed to prove them He also added that the PTI regime was ousted through a constitutional power, as he rebuked the deposed premier for using lewd language and tactics against the state institutions

FIA uncovers network of customs officers facilitating smugglers

T h e F e d e r a l I n v e s t i g a t i o n A g e n c y s A n t iC o r r u p t i o n C i r c l e K a r a c h i h a s m a d e a s i g n i f i c a n t b r e a k t h r o u g h i n i t s a n t i - s m u g g l i n g i n v e s t i g a t i o n , u n e a r t h i n g a c h a i n o f C u s t o m s o ff i c e r s w h o h a v e b e e n f a c i l i t a t i n g s m u g g l e r s A s a r e s u l t F i r s t I n f o r m a t i o n R e p o r t s ( F I R s ) h a v e b e e n f i l e d a g a i n s t f i v e C u s t o m s o ff i c i a l s a n d o t h e r s i n v o l v e d i n t h e i l l i c i t a c t i v i t i e s A c c o r d i n g t o t h e a v a i l a b l e c o p y o f t h e F I R , a t e a m f r o m F I A A C C K a r a c h i c o n d u c t e d a r a i d a t J i n n a h I n t e r n a t i o n a l A i r p o r t i n K a r a c h i D u r i n g t h e o p e r a t i o n t w o C u s t o m s o ff i c i a l s i d e n t i f i e d a s Ta r i q M e h m o o d S u p e r i n t e n d e n t ( A S O ) a n d Ya w a r A b b a s S u p e r i n t e n d e n t O p e r a t i o n w e r e a p p r e h e n d e d w h i l e a t t e m p t i n g t o b o a r d F l i g h t N o PA - 2 0 8 b o u n d f o r I s l a m a b a d o n J u l y 1 3 , 2 0 2 3 , a t 2 1 : 3 0 h o u r s D u r i n g t h e s e a r c h t h e F I A t e a m d i s c o v e r e d t h e i d e n t i t y a n d o ff i c i a l s e r v i c e c a r d s o f t h e a c c u s e d C u s t o m s o ff i c i a l s F u r t h e r m o r e a s u b s e q u e n t s e a r c h o f t h e i r o ff i c i a l v e h i c l e a To y o t a Vi g o w i t h t h e r e g i s t r a t i o n n u m b e r G PA - 2 9 7 , p a r k e d a t t h e a i r p o r t s p a r k i n g l o t , l e d t o t h e r e c o v e r y o f a s u b s t a n t i a l a m o u n t o f c a s h T h e r e c o v e r e d i t e m s i n c l u d e d P K R 5 , 4 3 7 , 2 0 0 , U S D o l l a r 2 , 4 0 0 , a n d

The prime minister while lauding the statesmanship qualities of his elder brother, regretted that the former premier and his leader Nawaz Sharif was ousted from power despite the fact that he had ended hours-long crippling load shedding provided laptops and loans to youth and brought the muti-billions

China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CEPC) power and road infrastructure

NAB halts corruption probe into wind power projects following amends to law

projects during 2015 in the country

On the other hand he accused the PTI chief of having had a phobia of PML-N leadership and the opposition as day in and day out, he was “hell-bent” upon putting them in jails by framing them in fake cases he said He said all the youth programmes started during Nawaz s tenure as 50 000 vehicles were provided to the people on

The prime minister mentioned that PTI s tenure was tainted with huge corruption scams, including sugar and wheat scams, BRT Peshawar, Malam Jabba, sale of Toshakhana gifts Rs60 billion money embezzlement returned by the UK agency etc and said that no one could deny these stark facts

forums The allegations in question pertained to money laundering and corruption specifically concerning the upfront tariff of 16 wind power projects The Chairman’s approval to close these cases aligns with the amended law that restricts NAB s authority to investigate wind power projects In a letter dated July 13, 2023, addressed to the Secretary of the Power Division, Mohsin Ali Khan, Additional Director (Staff) of NAB Rawalpindi, referred to the inquiry against officers and officials of NEPRA (National Electric Power Regulatory Authority) and others involved in setting up high upfront tariffs for electricity in 16 wind power projects in Sindh

The letter stated that based on the findings of the final inquiry report and the recommendations of the regional NAB and Executive Board, the Chairman of NAB has approved the closure of the inquiry During the Executive Board meeting, the Director-General of NAB Rawalpindi presented the case highlighting that it falls under the regulatory body s jurisdiction and is subject to the provisions of the National Accountability Amendment (NAA) Act, 2022

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir and Iranian military leadership vowed to eradicate the menace of terrorism on both sides of border through intelligence sharing and effective actions against the terrorists networks Pakistan and Iran will make joint efforts to eradicate terrorism in border areas through “intelligence sharing and effective actions” against terrorists’ networks and explore avenues for enhancing cooperation in security domain said Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)

According to a news release of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military s media wing, COAS Gen Syed Asim Munir on Sunday concluded his two-day successful visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran During the important visit military leadership of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan agreed that terrorism was a common threat to the region in general and both countries in particular Gen Asim undertook the maiden trip to the neighbouring country as an army chief wherein he held talks with his Iranian counterpart and also met the civilian leadership including the Iranian president and foreign minister During his visit the COAS had detailed meetings with the military leadership of Iran including Chief of General Staff of Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri Military commanders on both sides agreed that terrorism was a common threat to the region in general and both countries in particular

The COAS also called on President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahain During discussions the sig-

nificance of Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations for regional peace and stability was highlighted

The Army Chief was presented with the Guard of Honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of Iranian Armed Forces at the Military Headquarters on his arrival

The understanding came after Four Pakistan Army personnel embraced martyred in a terrorist attack on the Pakistan-Iran border in April The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement that the terrorists started firing on the security personnel patrolling at Jal Gayi sector on Pakistan-Iran border Pakistan and Iran ties have been in the past marred by trust deficit because of regional rivalry between Tehran and Riyadh

But there has been a significant shift in geo political environment after China brokered a landmark rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia Since then the two regional powers have restored their diplomatic ties and agreed to other steps seeking improvement in their relationship

U A E D i r h a m 6 1 0 0 U p o n f u r t h e r i n v e s t i g a t i o n a n d i n t e r r o g a t i o n Ta r i q M e h m o o d a n d Ya w a r A b b a s c o n f e s s e d t h a t t h e r e c o v e r e d a m o u n t w a s s p e e d m o n e y c o l l e c t e d f r o m v a r i o u s C u s t o m s o ff i c i a l s , i n c l u d i n g t h e c o n c e r n e d C o l l e c t o r, A d d i t i o n a l C o l l e c t o r, D e p u t y C o l l e c t o r, S u p e r i n t e n d e n t , S P S , S P O a n d P o s T h e y a l s o r e v e a l e d t h a t t h e m o n t h l y c o l l e c t i o n f r o m a l l C u s t o m s c h e c k p o s t s s u c h a s M o c h k o M a c h G o t h S o h r a b G o t h a n d G h a g g a r P h a t a k , a m o u n t e d t o a p p r o x i m a t e l y 4 0 t o 5 0 m i l l i o n P K R A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e y d i s c l o s e d t h a t a r o u n d R s 6 0 m i l l i o n w a s c o l l e c t e d i n f a c i l i t a t i o n o f t h e s m u g g l i n g o f b e t e l n u t T h e a c c u s e d C u s t o m s o ff i c i a l s w e r e s u b s e q u e n t l y t a k e n t o t h e F I A A C C K a r a c h i f o r f u r t h e r i n v e s t i g a t i o n i n t o t h e i r c o n n e c t i o n w i t h t h e s m u g g l e r s a n d t h e i r i n v o l v e m e n t i n f a c i l i t a t i n g t h e o rg a n i z e d t r a n s p o r t a t i o n o f s m u g g l e d g o o d s D u r i n g t h e i n t e r r o g a t i o n , Ta r i q M e h m o o d a n d Ya w a r A b b a s i m p l i c a t e d o t h e r C u s t o m s o ff i c e r s w h o w e r e a l s o r e c e i v i n g b r i b e s / s p e e d m o n e y f o r f a c i l i t a t i n g s m u g g l e r s A c c o r d i n g t o t h e F I R S a q i f S a e e d w h o w a s a p p o i n t e d a s D i r e c t o r A n t i - S m u g g l i n g O rg a n i z a t i o n ( A S O ) i n 2 0 2 0 , p l a y e d a k e y r o l e i n e s t a b l i s h i n g t h e o rg a n i z e d s m u g g l i n g n e t w o r k H e a p p o i n t e d t r u s t e d i n d i v i d u a l s w i t h i n t h e a n t is m u g g l i n g d i v i s i o n t o c o l l e c t s p e e d m o n e y f r o m v a r i o u s s m u g g l e r s U s m a n B a j w a w h o l a t e r r e p l a c e d S a q i f S a e e d a s D i r e c t o r A S O c o n t i n u e d t o f a c i l i t a t e t h e s m u g g l e r s i n e x c h a n g e f o r b r i b e s / s p e e d m o n e y a m o u n t i n g t o a p p r o x i m a t e l y R s 1 0 0 m i l l i o n p e r m o n t h I n F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 3 , A m i r T h a h e e m a s s u m e d t h e p o s i t i o n o f D i r e c t o r A n t iS m u g g l i n g a n d p r o v i d e d p r o t e c t i o n t o s m u g g l e r s i n v o l v e d i n v a r i o u s i l l e g a l a c t i v i t i e s T h e F I R a l s o r e v e a l e d t h a t Ta r i q M e h m o o d d i s c l o s e d t h e i n v o l v e m e n t o f I m r a n N o o r a n i w h o o p e r a t e s a s m u g g l i n g n e t w o r k f o r b e t e l n u t f r o m t h e b o r d e r a r e a s o f B a l o c h i s t a n t o K a r a c h i I m r a n N o o r a n i a l s o r u n s a c h h a l i a f a c t o r y u n d e r t h e n a m e o f M / s S u n n y P r o d y c t s i n t h e S h e r s h a h I n d u s t r i a l A r e a o f K a r a c h i F o l l o w i n g t h e a p p r o v a l o f t h e c o m p e t e n t a u t h o r i t y a c a s e h a s b e e n r e g i s t e r e d a g a i n s t Ta r i q M e h m o o d , Ya w a r A b b a s , S a q i f S a e e d , U s m a n B a j w a , A m i r T h a h e e m , I m r a n N o o r a n i , a n d o t h e r s u n d e r r e l e v a n t s e c t i o n s o f t h e l a w, i n c l u d i n g t h e P a k i s t a n C u s t o m s A c t 1 9 6 9 a n d t h e P r e v e n t i o n o f C o r r u p t i o n A c t 1 9 4 7 T h e F I A s b r e a k t h r o u g h i n u n c o v e r i n g t h i s n e t w o r k o f C u s t o m s o ff i c e r s f a c i l i t a t i n g s m u g g l e r s m a r k s a s i g n i f i c a n t s t e p i n t h e f i g h t a g a i n s t c o r r u p t i o n a n d i l l e g a l a c t i v i t i e s i n t h e c o u n t r y

Pak-Iran vow to eradicate ‘common threat’ of ter rorism as COA S concludes trip

AT UN, PAKISTAN URGES UNIFIED ACTION TO ASSIST ASIAN PACIFIC NATIONS DEAL WITH CLIMATE-INDUCED DISASTERS

UNITED NATIONS S ta f f R e p o R t

PA K I S TA N has called for a coordinated effort to help the vulnerable nations of the Asia-Pacific region confront many climate change-related challenges like floods heat waves water shortages and melting glaciers

Together we can build a world where climate action and sustainable development go hand in hand, leaving no one behind, Romina Khurshid Alam, Special Assistant to the prime minister, told a U N conference on Sunday Speaking at the 4th Global Conference

Sutlej River in medium flood, local authorities evacuate thousands

BAHAWALNAGAR: The Sutlej River has been in medium flood at Sulemanki Headworks with the water inflow and outflow reaching 81,000 cusecs The upsurge in the river water has submerged scores of residential settlements and crops Local authorities have evacuated over 5 000 people to safer places and rescued 151 people and hundreds of cattle stranded in floodwater Floodwater has badly affected Basti Maqsood Watto in the Dona Qutab Sarho area, while a protective dyke of the river is being eroded with floodwater at Nama Jinde Kaka The water level in Sutlej River is going down at Ganda Singh Wala, with the water flow at 20 000 cusecs However local authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and are prepared to evacuate more people if necessary India had released over 200,000 cusecs of water in Sutlej downstream in Pakistan on Tuesday after persistent rains in the catchment areas of the river The water level in Chenab is also surging at Punjnad headworks with the inflow and outflow reaching 55 053 cusecs and 39 953 cusecs respectively The authorities have warned people living in the vicinity of the rivers to be vigilant and to take necessary precautions They have also urged people to avoid traveling in the affected areas S ta f f R e p o R t

Rashid expresses disapproval of gov t’s ‘shameless’ conduct

RAWALPINDI: Sheikh Rashid Ahmed the head of Awami Muslim League (AML) and former federal minister, voiced strong disapproval of the current government’s attitude towards acquiring foreign loans accusing them of crossing all limits of shame In a scathing statement on Twitter issued on Sunday Ahmed highlighted the troubling trend of celebrating loans as achievements, contrary to the typical global sentiment where governments often feel embarrassed when seeking loans He expressed concern that the government on the other hand seemed to be embracing this practice as a source of pride The seasoned politician also criticised the government for the increasing costs of electricity, gas, flour, and sugar over the 15 months of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government He believed that any attempts to stabilise the country s economy would be futile In a jab at Shehbaz Sharif Ahmed mentioned that the prime minister took the oath on the day of his indictment, managed to clear himself from money laundering cases, and allegedly engaged in an Rs70 billion money laundering scheme in the solar energy sector Ahmed expressed his belief that the rulers who only seemed concerned about their own children would face a disastrous outcome He emphasised that they failed to grasp the extent of poverty experienced by the common people The AML chief further expressed concerns about the country’s political reputation stating that the world would not accept any rigged or compromised elections He feared that the political reputation of the country would be at stake, just as the economic reputation is currently at stake S ta f f R e p o R t

on Strengthening Synergies Between the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development she underscored the need for knowledge sharing and utilization of collective experiences and expertise to chart a path toward a consortium that focuses on disaster risk reduction strategies for the Asia-Pacific region Ms Alam, who is and convener of the National Parliamentary Taskforce on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) introduced herself as representing the Parliament of Pakistan at the conference which is a part of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) s High-Level Political Forum

“I bring your attention to the Resolution

I recently presented in the National Assembly to appreciate the contributions of the UN and its agencies that use their expertise and resources to help Pakistan in its fight against climate change The Resolution was passed unanimously by the members of the August Forum on 23rd June 2023, the Pakistani delegate told the conference Pakistan, she said, recognizes the critical importance of aligning its efforts with the Paris Agreement to the temperatures limited to 1 5 degrees and the 2030 UN Development Agenda The country she said faces many challenges as 1/3rd of its land found itself underwater as a result of the floods of 2022 which were a wake-up call to the world on the threats of climate change

The floods affected 33 million people, while more than 1,700 lives were lost, Ms Alam said adding that damages and losses have been calculated at more than Rs 6 4 trillion Pakistan she pointed out contributes less than 1% of the global greenhouse gases, Even though these challenges threaten the economic prosperity of our country, the well-being of our people, and the security of our future generations Pakistan is committed to the SDGs the Pakistan delegate said Our government has implemented policies and strategies focusing on renewable energy We have also placed great emphasis on reducing poverty, promoting quality education, gender equality, and inclusive eco-

CPEC strengthens people-to -people exchanges between Pakistan, China

ISLAMABAD X i N h ua

While munching on traditional steamed beef dumplings and noodles during a Pakistan-China cultural event in Islamabad 12-year-old Muhmmad Irfan could not hide his love for Chinese food

The variety of delicious dishes the Chinese cuisine offered made it one of the most favourite cuisines in Pakistan

Especially after the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was launched many Pakistanis got to know about the Chinese food including hotpot, dumplings, noodles and many more, he said Many restaurants have also popped up across the country over the past decade showing locals’ passion for Chinese food

Along with Irfan at least 100 other participants including Pakistanis and Chinese, attended the China-Pakistan Civilisation Exchanges and Mutual

Learning on Friday, which featured documentaries on Chinese culture cultural dances performances Chinese tea stalls food stalls language learning and art exhibition as well as a display of the progress of CPEC projects Launched in 2013, CPEC is a corridor linking the Gwadar port in Balochistan with Kashgar in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region which highlights energy transport and industrial cooperation Irfan said he thoroughly enjoyed the event and learned a lot about Chinese culture, saying there should be more

such cultural events to promote mutual understanding and relations between the two peoples Masood Khalid, former Pakistani ambassador to China, said cultural exchanges have flourished remarkably between Pakistan and China over the past 70 years particularly after the inception of CPEC a flagship project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) The revival and revitalisation of the Silk Road through the modern BRI holds the promise of unlocking boundless opportunities for mutual understanding collaboration and the preservation of shared heritage Khalid said He underscored the transformative impact of CPEC, fostering trade, infrastructure development and cultural fu-

sion between the two neighbours, saying the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China is strengthened with each passing day with enhanced economic cooperation and people-to-people ties There is a need for further cross-cultural understanding and a vibrant tapestry of shared heritage for a prosperous future, Khalid added Aneel Salman, chair of economic security at Islamabad Policy Research Institute said culture plays a key role in economic modernisation and growth There is a huge influence of cultural dynamics on the economic progress of countries Pakistan and China can leverage cultural heritage for innovation and sustainable development ” he said

nomic growth Pakistan, she said, firmly believes that empowering local governments, engaging civil society and mobilizing private sector partnerships are essential in driving transformative change Our task force has been working tirelessly to improve legislation and enhance accountability We are committed to ensuring that Pakistan plays an active role in the global discourse on climate change and sustainable development ”

In conclusion Ms Alam said let us leave here with a renewed determination to strengthen the synergies between the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda, knowing that our actions today will shape the future we leave for generations to come ”

11 districts, 4,500 points declared sensitive in KP during upcoming Muharram

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has declared several districts of the province as sensitive during the Muharram it emerged on Sunday These districts include Peshawar Kohat Hangu Dera Ismail Khan Kurram Orakzai and Tank Moreover 4 500 places of worship were declared as the most sensitive during Muharram in these eleven districts of the province Based on the information provided by the police and security forces the Home Department has decided to deploy the police Frontier Constabulary and Frontier Corps to ensure security at these sensitive places of worship throughout Muharram The police have been instructed to enforce strict security measures to maintain peace and order in the province The district police have been directed to develop comprehensive security plans tailored to the specific requirements of Muharram To prevent any untoward incidents the police have been instructed to seal the routes of mourning processions in all these districts The 1st of Muharram marks the start of the Islamic new year Earlier on July 10 the KP CounterTerrorism Department (CTD) claimed to have foiled a major terror plan in the provincial capital arresting suspects of banned outfits who were planning to carry out terror activities in Muharram According to CTD spokesperson, at least 10 alleged terrorists of a banned outfit were arrested Peshawar and Hangu districts of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who were planning to carry out terror attacks during the month of Muharram Staff RepoRt

Key suspect arrested in Islamabad hiking trail rape probe: police

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) has taken decisive action by terminating the basic party membership of six individuals who have deserted the party

According to reports, Omar Ayub Khan, secretary general of the party, has announced the termination of Haji

Shaukat Ali Mujahid Maitla Nadia

Aziz Saleem Baryar Syed Zulfiqar Ali

Shah and Usman Khan Tarakai

On Sunday, Khan personally served them with formal termination notices, highlighting that despite their membership in the opposition party it has come to light through extensive media coverage and press conferences that these individuals have chosen to leave the party voluntarily

As a result, the termination of their basic party membership will take effect immediately

To ensure a clear break from the party Khan has directed the six individuals to refrain from using the PTI name designation or their membership in any

manner whatsoever

The party warns that failure to comply with this directive may result in further action, including potential legal consequences

Former prime minister Imran Khan has been embroiled in a tussle with the military establishment since he was removed from power last year in a contentious parliamentary vote which he says was orchestrated by the generals, which the military denies

The face-off has raised new fears about the stability of the nuclear-armed country as it struggles with its worst economic crisis in decades

After being removed from power, Khan has been campaigning for a snap general election, rallying supporters across the country But the prime minister who replaced him Shahbaz Sharif has rejected calls for a poll ahead of the due date late this year Khan has said the corruption charges against him were made up to banish him from politics He was detained on May 9 but was later freed on bail S H O W-C A U S E N O T I C E I S S U E D

‘ The name is Imran. Imran Khan’ City NoteS

TH E recent claim by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that PTI chief Imran Khan was using proxies to call for the assassination of COAS Gen Asim Munir has left me a little confused Is Mian Shehbaz trying to help Imran in his campaign to revive the Pakistani film industry? or is he setting himself up as a replacement at least as far as scriptwriting goes?

Because the claim seems about as real as the plot of a James Bond movie Those who might remember the 1970s might remember the Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me Bond was being played by Roger Moore but for many of us the highlight of the movie was Jaws the villain played by a Russian giant with the stainless steel teeth Soviet dentistry made its hallmark Bond overcame him finally by electrocuting him through those teeth The role was created by Richard Jiel a seven-foottwo actor who suffered from acromegaly a

condition in which the pituitary gland releases excess growth hormone

Now Kiel has passed away a decade ago so he presumably cannot hold a press conference abjuring the PTI and all its works especially the May 9 protests and announcing either his abandonment of all politics or his joining the Istehkam Pakistan Party But otherwise there’s nothing more Bond-like than the story of the planned assassination

Mean-minded opponents jealous of Imran s handsomeness have spewed rubbish about him and certain film actresses

That is to turn a blind eye to his efforts for the revival of the Pakistani film industry

Since his ouster from office last April, he has redoubled his efforts and has been busy producing ever more refined scripts for the industry Like every great artist he has been using his personal experiences and transforming them into art

From the simple assassination attempt, he moved to ever more complex attempts, to the point where he says that on a helicopter flight in KP not only did someone tamper with the fuel supply but someone tried to take out the chopper with a missile

Does anyone remember the skiing chase that opens For Your Eyes Only? (Another Roger Moore starrer, by the way) If Imran had ever gone on the slopes at Mallam Jabba he would have claimed that Nawaz Sharif had been behind him trying to kill him, and only his incredible skiing skills enabled to escape with his life, just as he avoided being poisoned by the rare Asiatic poison the Sharif use to induce heart attacks in people they want offed but with no trace of the poison left Perhaps it s good that he couldn t make the claim because Nawaz Sharif can t walk and chew gum at the same time, let alone shoot and ski at the same time Imran probably couldn’t grasp that, because he is the intellectual whose discussions of quantum physics with Usman Buzdar revolutionised the world He can walk and chew gum at the same time but he is also a winter triathlete, and can shoot, ski and run cross-country as well That s why he escaped the rocket in KP Of course Pakistan is behind advanced countries like Uzbekistan which had a democratic election in which incumbent Shevket Mirziyoyev got a third term with

TO T W O G B M L A S: Meanwhile a show-cause notice was issued to the PTI representatives for deviating from the party policy during the Gilgit-Baltistan election Show cause notices were issued to GB MLA Fateh Ullah Khan and Hashmat Ullah Khan

The party has notified to them that they voted against the decision of the party and found involved in the conspiracy against the PTI during the election in Gilgit-Baltistan

The party asked them to submit an explanation in writing within three days

If the notice is not answered or is unsatisfactory, further action will be taken as per the party policy and rules, the notice warned them B A R R I S T E R G O H A R A P -

P O I N T E D P T I C E C : Separately Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has been appointed Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Chief Election Commissioner

The PTI Chairman gave his approval for Mr Gohar s appointment as the party CEC A notification in this regard has been issued with the signature of PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub

ISLAMABAD: The police have arrested a man suspected of raping a woman at gunpoint on a popular hiking trail in Islamabad, it announced on Sunday, three days after the incident sparked outrage and concern on social media According to an initial police report, the suspect, identified as Nauman enticed the complainant by claiming to be an accountant in the education department with available positions He demanded a payment of Rs50 000 for securing the job The woman traveled to Rawalpindi on July 12, met Nauman, handed over her resume, and paid an advance of Rs30,000 for the post However instead of introducing her to an official as promised the man took her to Trail 3 a famous and steep hiking track where he allegedly raped her at gunpoint The complainant s medical report did not show any evidence of sexual assault, the police said in a Twitter post “[Instead] there was a friendship between the complainant and the accused ” The incident led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) at the Kohsar police station under Section 376 (punishment for rape) of the PPC The police maintained they were investigating the case on merit The police, after three days of manhunt, announced Sunday they have successfully apprehended the suspect The arrest was made late last night on a technical bases after an extensive search operation However the police statement claimed the victim was not cooperating with the investigation Staff RepoRt

87 5 percent of the vote There was first a constitutional amendment made letting him seek the new seven-year term, which received 90 6 percent of the vote Imran has got that sort of popular support, and only needs a chance to show how he can break

records I

was

Uzbek

learn from Mirziy-

65 and thus a mere stripling in front of Imran who is 71 and thus a challenger for the youth vote, but you can t have everything, can you?

In the old days Mirziyoyev would probably have qualified as a Bond villain because of the Soviet connection, but these days, it s the Turkic connection that counts Not for Bond movies, but diplomacy And as we know, Imran is the best diplomat of them all

The big difference is that Shehbaz is just doing a script but Imran wants to star Wait for him to say The name is Imran Imran Khan And specify that he takes his lassi shaken, not stirred

P T I ex p e l s s i x d e s e r t e r s, c i t i n g

b r e a c h o f p a r t y l oya l t y

KP PL ANS DEVELOPMENT OF THANDIANI AS SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURE TOURISM ZONE

TH E Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has unveiled its plans to transform Thandiani resort in Abbottabad district into an Integrated Tourist Zone (ITZ), aiming at establishing it as a premier eco-adventure tourism destination

The project set to be initiated through a public-private partnership will focus on sustainable development and conservation

of the natural ecosystem Spanning across 49 acres of land, the Thandiani ITZ will offer a range of modern facilities and amenities including modern hotels condo hotels serviced apartments recreational areas shopping malls commercial complexes, leisure parks, wellness complexes, and family-oriented recreational spaces The project is expected to boost tourism and create new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods for the local communities Thandiani slated to become the first

NAB halts corruption probe into wind power projects following amends to law

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Considering the legal framework the Executive Board recommended closing the case at NAB s end and referring the matter to the Ministry of Energy (Power Division) for further action in accordance with the law The Chairman of NAB subsequently approved the Executive Board s recommendation

It is important to note that the closure of this particular inquiry only pertains to the specific allegations mentioned above and does not impact any ongoing investigations or prevent the initiation of new cases under the ordinance The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has been requested to nominate a focal person to coordinate with NAB Rawalpindi for the handover of collected records, facilitating any necessary action in accordance with the law

Sargodha woman gives bir th to child on rail track

SARGODHA: A deserving woman gave birth to a child on a railway line while walking towards a hospital in Sargodha on Sunday

According to Rescue 1122 a deserving woman was walking towards a hospital but she could no more bear labour pains near a railway line A citizen immediately called Rescue 1122 after witnessing the woman’s deteriorated situation The woman’s condition got critical when a Rescue 1122 team rushed to the scene The woman gave birth at a railway line with the help of women officials of the Rescue 1122 After the delivery, the woman and infant were immediately shifted to the hospital S ta f f R e p o R t

Cour t acquits CEO LMKT of E-Ser vices project case

ISLAMABAD: The Special Judge Central Islamabad has acquitted the accused, CEO of LMKR Atif Rais Khan in E-Services Project case The Special Judge Central Islamabad in its verdict stated that there is no evidence to suggest the accused Atif Rais Khan with any criminal intent, willfully caused delays in the project completion despite receiving substantial amounts The court ruled that an accused can be acquitted at any stage if there is no probability of conviction Consequently Atif Rais khan has been acquitted under section 265 k of the criminal procedure code effecting clearing him of all charges related to the case It is pertinent to note that Federal Investigation Agency had registered FIR No 22/2017 on 11 10 2017 against Atif Rais Khan, CEO LMKR as

Punjab ombudsman facilitates 18 seekers in securing government jobs

properly developed tourism hotspot in the region, will adhere to international standards for sustainable development, following a comprehensive destination management system The project will be divided into four main zones: the central village zone, the destination zone, the northern accommodation zone, and the southern accommodation zone To attract investors and developers, the government plans to provide tax exemptions and other incentives while strictly enforcing regulations related to nature conservation

and maintaining a pollution-free environment within the area Aitezaz Mahfooz, the Divisional Forest Officer of the forestry planning and monitoring circle in Peshawar highlighted the challenges of preserving natural ecosystem in hilly areas due to their unique climate and distinct flora He said expertise from developed countries will be sought to establish a robust ecosystem conservation mechanism, while highlighting the need for coordination among relevant departments to promote environmental protection in tourist hotspots

Tourists urged to obser ve traffic rules in Murree to prevent congestion, accidents

RAWALPINDI S ta f f R e p o R t

The City Traffic Police (CTP) has emphasised the importance of adhering to traffic regulations for tourists visiting Murree, a popular hill station A spokesperson for the CTP announced the department had made all necessary arrangements to ensure the safety of visitors during the summer season Rawalpindi City Traffic Officer (CTO) Taimoor Khan has specifically requested tourists to abide by traffic rules in Murree to avoid traffic congestion and untoward incidents

Special teams have been established to assist tourists and address any issues they may encounter It is prohibited to park vehicles outside designated parking areas, and illegal parking on roads, especially at exit and entry points, is strictly banned

Cooking at the roadside is also restricted he added The spokesperson further informed that single and double parking is not permitted on roads, except at designated parking places Motorcyclists without safety helmets are not allowed entry into Murree

To facilitate motorists certain roads have been designated as one-way including Bank Road GPO Chowk to Kashmir Point, Hall Road, Lalazar to Kashmir Point, View Fourth Road, View Fourth Road to GPO Chowk, Guldana Road, GPO Chowk to Guldana Chowk Dilkusha Road Imtiaz Shaheed Road to Lari Adda via Dilkusha Hotel Cecil Road and Imtiaz Shaheed Road to Cart Road via Cecil Apartments

The district administration has set

up a main control room at Jinnah Hall to monitor the provision of facilities for tourists Cooperation with traffic police is strongly encouraged to prevent traffic congestion Motorists are advised to avoid incorrect parking allowing for a smooth flow of traffic

Due to Murree s pleasant summer climate, it attracts a large number of tourists, resulting in significant traffic congestion The district administration spokesperson cautioned motorists to refrain from wrong parking speeding and taking selfies in the middle of the roads

The spokesperson also assured tourists of foolproof security measures in place throughout Murree All security and traffic arrangements have been finalized to ensure a pleasant experience for tourists during the summer season

ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL

CONSTRUCTION: Separately, Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman instructed the administration to intensify efforts against illegal construction in Murree

During a meeting focused on illegal constructions traffic issues and renovation projects, Zaman directed the authorities to take strict action against violations of building by-laws and encroachments The meeting was attended by Rawalpindi commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatha deputy commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) director general Ahmed Hasan Ranjha, Murree additional deputy commissioner (revenue) Qasim Ijaz, and assistant commissioner Kamran Hussain Cheema provided a detailed briefing on various projects

Emphasizing the need for action, Zaman said that commercial buildings in Murree should be audited, and strict measures should be taken against violations of approved building plans

Immediate sealing of commercial buildings without parking on the roadside was also advised

He further directed the completion of patchwork on roads in Murree as soon as possible He also urged the authorities to ensure that all roadside buildings are painted to enhance the area s aesthetics

He emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive renovation plan to enhance the beauty of Murree, assuring the provision of necessary funds to expedite the project

The chief secretary instructed the administration to expand the Monsoon afforestation campaign and adorn Murree with flowers and ornamental plants He also stressed the need for enhanced cleanliness in Murree emphasizing proper garbage removal and disposal systems to maintain the beauty of tourist points Chatha the commissioner highlighted that all relevant departments are actively working together to restore the natural beauty of Murree PHA has made special arrangements for roadside flower growth during the monsoon as shared by Chatha

The deputy commissioner confirmed the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy against illegal constructions in Murree Additionally, he mentioned the formulation of a comprehensive traffic control system and the implementation of measures to regulate traffic and minimize congestion

Insight into how business graduate triggers turnaround in SNGPL operation

CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE

Question: Will SNGPL embrace technology to improve its business processes and efficiencies?

RRK: The Board has prioritized the digitization of business processes to enhance transparency and overall efficiency within the organization We rolled out a comprehensive digitization plan in 2020 which led to the formation of an IT and digitization committee Working alongside a qualified and experienced IT department, we have achieved significant milestones For instance, we integrated the SCADA system with our industrial consumers resulting in reduced gas theft incidents and gas savings/recovery worth nearly Rs5 billion

As a successful pilot project we introduced IoT-based Pressure Transducers at various locations to provide real-time pressure-related data Additionally we have installed electronically-encrypted cyber locks on major industrial consumers and plan to introduce them for all other industrial consumers Various technological interventions, such as installing trackers in company vehicles and implementing a biometric system for field camps, have led to significant savings and improved governance

Question: Complaints have been raised about the lack of digitization in SNGPL's distribution network, particularly for domestic consumers How do

you plan to address these chronic issues?

RRK: We are using GIS integration to monitor customer complaints, gas theft and leakages The ongoing digitization process aims to bring transparency and visibility to our operations Notably GIS integration for pipelines up to 4 inches has been completed, enabling efficient detection of leakages and line losses We plan to complete GIS integration for 2-inch and 1-inch pipelines along with total geo-tagging of the pipeline network by 2024/2025 This will substantially enhance transparency within the system gradually replacing the paper-based system

Question: The federal government promotes a paperless work culture in the government sector What measures has SNGPL taken in this regard?

RRK: In line with the federal government s goals we are actively pursuing the adoption of a digital document management system This initiative aims to reduce, if not eliminate, the need for paper-based file movement leading to significant cost savings

Question: Can customers expect to benefit from SNGPL s digitized operations?

RRK: Absolutely Customer service is a top priority for SNGPL We have introduced a comprehensive mobile application called 'SNGPL Connect On that provides multiple services at customers fingertips With a single tap

customers can lodge complaints check billing history, apply for new connections, file service issues, and order LPG cylinders using their smartphones Additionally we have entered into agreements with financial institutions to enable customers to pay bills online

Question: What measures have you taken as Chairperson to empower women and ensure their equal participation within SNGPL?

RRK: The Board has actively encouraged gender equality within SNGPL We conducted awareness sessions on harassment of women for the first time in over 50 years aiming to educate both men and women at all levels Additionally, I recently inaugurated a daycare center, fulfilling a long-standing demand of our female employees This initiative has provided them with workplace satisfaction and peace enabling them to play effective roles as working mothers I have always encouraged women at SNGPL to voice their opinions and concerns

Gender equality is essential as highlighted by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) While Pakistan s corporate and business sectors have gradually recognized the importance of women's participation, there is still progress to be made Cultural changes are necessary to foster an environment where men and women can work as equal partners and respect each other s roles in organizations and society

Will honor whatever public ’s decision will be in

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

He said during his tenure about one million laptops were given to the youth and the PTI leadership blamed them for using the scheme as a bribe, adding that contrary to it, their initiative brought about an IT revolution in the country, enabling the youth to continue their studies work as freelancers and earn a respectable livelihood for their families

A number of ministers advisers parliamentarians, officials and beneficiaries of the loan and their families attended the ceremony The PM stressed that these laptops were given purely on merit, and if proved otherwise he would be held accountable as these resources belonged to the country

He stated that allegations scandals and the use of foul language were rife during the PTI s government About $3 billion in loans were given to powerful families during the PTI’s government, he said and

questioned why this huge amount was not spent on the future of the youth

Shehbaz maintained that Toshakhana gifts for the country were sold in a shabby manner and efforts were made by Imran Niazi to protect his spouse from criminal cases The worst kind of vengeance was unleashed against the opposition and the civil servants What was the difference between Hitler and Imran Khan? he regretted He observed that nations were harmed by such tactics “It was a heart-wrenching story but now it has become a part of the past he added He said that Nawaz had spent 40 years in politics and experienced ordeals for the sake of the motherland Nawaz Sharif was accused of Panama papers and given punishment in Iqama charges,” he said, adding that the PML-N quaid appeared before courts regularly but on the other hand Imran

was being granted bail

LAHORE: In the latest development, the Office of the Punjab Ombudsman has successfully interceded on public complaints to ensure that provincial government departments provide permanent jobs to 18 applicants of different districts under Rule 17A of the Punjab Civil Servants (Appointment and Conditions of Service) Rules 1974 While giving details, a spokesman for the ombudsman reported that Talha Tariq has been appointed as a junior clerk in Attock, Muhammad Ilyas of Toba Tek Singh as a gardener and Omar Daraz of Jhang as a watchman Additionally Amina Bibi from Vehari has been recruited as bulawi and Abrara Sadia and Chaand Hamza Goraya have been posted as naib qasid in Faisalabad and Dera Ghazi Khan respectively by the education department after the involvement of the ombudsman office Furthermore the health department has recruited Muhammad Waqas Bashir of Jaranwala as a ward boy Rawalpindi s Sultan Muhammad as a sentry patrol and Muhammad Hamad Ali of Toba Tek Singh as a junior clerk in BPS-11 Similarly, the Superintending Engineer of the Lower Chenab Canal East Circle Sheikhupura has provided Asif Ali with the position of a junior clerk after the ombudsman office interceded to protect the legal right of the applicant the spokesman added The spokesman further said the office of the deputy commissioner of Bhakkar has recruited Safdar Abbas and Muhammad Shakil as junior clerks in BPS-11 with the revenue department In addition Tauqeer Ahmad from Vehari has been employed as a constable in BPS-7 by the police department and Muhammad Sajid from Multan has been selected as a naib qasid by the irrigation department, the spokesman said In a related development Noor Fatima has been appointed as a sanitary worker by the market committee Jahanian Saulat Hasan as a baildar by the district council Faisalabad Fida Hussain as a watchman by the tehsil council Sahiwal and Hamza Rasheed as a naib qasid by the municipal committee Jhelum, all in accordance with the provisions of Rule 17-A

The applicants have thanked the Office of the Ombudsman for safeguarding their legal rights S ta f f R e p o R t

Turkish agency launches plantation in Pakistan to honour failed coup mar t yrs

ISLAMABAD:

A state-run Turkish aid agency planted hundreds of tree samplings at a community park in Pakistan s port city of Karachi to honour the people who sacrificed their lives to foil the so-called coup in Turkey on July 15 2016 Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) planted over 250 samplings at a park located in Karachi s southern district at a ceremony attended by the local and Turkish community members, girl and boy scouts, and media professionals, to honour as many martyrs of July 15 TIKA, which has already been carrying out a string of development health and educational projects across Pakistan will further develop the park as well The ceremony began with a recitation from the Quran by a visually impaired boy scout followed by Turkish and Pakistani national anthems A “moment of silence” was also observed Addressing the ceremony, Vice Consul General Oguz Kozanli said the martyrs of July 15 charted a new page in Turkey s history with their blood which will always be remembered He said the people and the security forces of Turkey stood united and saved democracy in 2016, with their unwavering resolve and unyielding commitment Halil Ibrahim Basaran TIKA’s Karachi coordinator said Ankara and Islamabad have always stood together in trying times whether it was devastating earthquakes in Turkey in February this year or unprecedented floods in Pakistan last year The people of Pakistan stood by their Turkish brethren in their successful struggle against the conspirators who wanted to derail democracy in Turkey on July 15 T H E D E F E AT E D C O U P: This year which marks the seventh anniversary of the botched coup, events are being held under the theme of Turkey s Heroes of the Century, to honour the people who defended the country at the cost of their lives on the night of July 15 The attempt by FETO terrorist group to overthrow the government began around 10:00 pm local time (1900GMT) on July 15 and was thwarted by 8:00 am the following day FETO and its US-based leader Fetullah Gulen orchestrated the defeated coup, which left 253 people dead and 2,734 injured a n a d o l u ag e n c y

polls: PM Shehbaz

prime minister referring to the minister for finance s announcement regarding the reduction in prices of petroleum products by Rs9 and Rs7 50 per litre, said that it was all possible due to appreciation in the value of the rupee against the dollar which provided them an opportunity to pass on the relief to the public The crude oil price in the international market was still high, he added

The prime minister said that it was also the IMF programme’s positive aspect which brought stability to the value of the rupee If the incumbent government had not reached the agreement the prime minister observed the difference between the value of the rupee and the dollar could have increased leading to a further difficult economic situation

“Those people who had conspired against the country with the grace of Allah Almighty all their machinations have been buried and their links abroad including a recent statement by Israel against Pakistan

all these were failed he added

About IMF s agreement, he said it was something like a sweetmeat and alluded to the economic challenges But with determination and commitment they could stabilise the economy with revolutionary and bold steps he stressed The prime minister said with sacrifices and hard work and the solemn pledge by the government, the rich and those people blessed with resources, public servants and politicians, could change the country’s fate

Speaking on the occasion Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman said that the youth had always been a precious asset for any country, and the provision of opportunities to them was a must He advised the youth to always depend upon truthfulness and facts without being beguiled by sensational and misleading statements He said all these youth programmes were launched in 2013 which targeted the youth and lauded efforts of the prime minister

Uniform Civil Code stunt I

N D I A N PM Narendra Modi is no stranger to stirring controversy just before elections Before the last general elections in 2019 he staged the Pulwana incident so that he could parade as a protectors of India, and he also blew up the status of Kashmir so that its abolition after he had won was declared a fulfillment of a campaign promise This time with elections due next year his remarks to a BJP meeting show that he is taking up the issue of a uniform civil code, in time for the next election

It should be remembered that a UCC is an old issue for the BJP, which wants the abolition of a welter of different personal laws which cover marriage and inheritance and the imposition of a UCC The not-so-hidden aim is to attack the Muslim personal law which allows for polygamy, cousin-marriage and prescribes unequal shares for male and female children in inheritance

The BJP may not have thought the issue through The UCC will offend Muslims, which is something the BJP is used to but it will also offend other minorities such as Christians, Tribals, Sikhs and Parsis Indeed, it would not accommodate Hindus from South India or people from the Northeast Already, there is talk of various communities obtaining exemptions Once that loophole is opened, all will try to get hold of it The British, faced with the almost-bewildering mosaic of Indian society, were careful not to create a UCC though they imposed uniform civil and criminal procedure codes Before them, the Mughals were also careful to allow various communities to observe their customs It should be noted that the various personal laws were administered as customary laws Pakistan has not interfered with that, and even today Muslims follow the Sharia in matters relating to family life such as marriage and inheritance not because The Sharia is the Command of the Almighty but because that is their age-old custom True Muslims in Pakistan are no longer allowed to follow non-Muslim custom in these matters as many did before Partition

Whether Modi makes this stunt work or not, will depend on whether his government enacts a UCC before the election or not Even the previous Law Commission, in its final report, said that a UCC was a bad idea Going into an election with a UCC that could be criticized would be likely to lose the BJP the support of groups it has targeted However the Occupied Kashmir example shows that this could be a campaign promise to be fulfilled at the beginning of the third term After all like the Rasm Mandir, this is an old BJP issue

Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late)

Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Editor

M A Niazi Joint Editor Umar Aziz Executive Editor

D G s a n d p o v e r t y i n a w o r l d o f p o l y c r i s i s

SDGs are growing fur ther away than ever

‘Halfway to the deadline for the 2030 Agenda, the SDG Progress Report; Special Edition shows we are leaving more than half the world behind Progress on more than 50 per cent of targets of the SDGs is weak and insufficient; on 30 per cent it has stalled or gone into reverse These include key targets on poverty, hunger and climate Unless we act now, the 2030 Agenda could become an epitaph for a world that might have been ’ – An excerpt from the foreword by Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres in the recently released The sustainable development goals [SDGs] report 2023: special edition by United Nations

TH E neoliberal assault, and within it, mainly austerity and lesser role of regulation in markets over the years has weakened the public health sector and global supply chains on one hand and on the other diminished the capacity of governments to act mainly as the facilitator of private sector, and fixer of market failures, instead of much-needed role of active players in economy, so as to safeguard the interests of the citizens against the ‘profit-over-people’ mindset of the private sector

One of the main outcomes of the neoliberal assault has been that the signal of over-profiteering and short-termism in markets was given paramount importance, while attention to long-term and more important needs of economies, for instance in terms of fast-unfolding climate change crisis, and a number coronavirus epidemics warnings that were not heeded resulting in serious cracks in terms of for instance economic public health sector and supplychain resilience that came to the fore in recent years as frequency and intensity of climate disasters increased, and as the coronavirus became a pandemic Resultantly, absolute poverty, which was on a decreasing trend globally for a number of years before the covid-19 pandemic that hit in 2019 got reversed and absolute poverty has seen a rising trend in recent years

This indeed put a serious dent to the SDG goal of ending poverty A recently released report Global multidimensional poverty index 2023 by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative highlighted a less than satisfactory progress in terms of meaningfully moving towards this goal as ‘In 2015 the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1 set out to overcome the greatest global challenge: ending poverty in all its forms At the midpoint to 2030, people s lives continue to be battered in multiple ways simultaneously Globally, an array of challenges impedes poverty reduction

with Pakistan s obligations under international human rights laws Article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which Pakistan has ratified, guarantees the right to a trial before a competent, independent and impartial tribunal established by law Has the justice system been subverted?

The authorities have tightened control of the media Media workers reported increased coercion censorship and arrests of journalists The see-saw attitude of inter-bank dollars fluctuation has left the middle class clueless about making its way through Dependent on foreign remittances and pledges where do we stand today?

– widespread inequality political instability and conflict, a climate emergency, COVID-19 pandemic recovery, and cost of living and other crises Measures of multidimensional poverty attempt to offer clear priorities for addressing poverty going beyond monetary deprivations Across 110 countries 1 1 billion of 6 1 billion people are poor poor people live in Sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia: 534 million (47 8 percent) in Sub-Saharan Africa and 389 million (34 9 percent) in South Asia Hence, as per the Report, one-third of the poor people lived in South Asia We live in a world of polycrisis– from existential threats of climate change crisis, and the Pandemicene phenomenon, to rising income inequality, and difficult debt situation overall globally Renowned economist Adam Tooze in his 28 October 2022 Financial Times (FT) published article Welcome to the world of polycrisis’ pointed out in this regard

‘Pandemic drought floods mega storms and wildfires threats of a third world war how rapidly we have become inured to the list of shocks With economic and non-economic shocks entangled all the way down, it is little wonder that an unfamiliar term is gaining currency– the polycrisis A problem becomes a crisis when it challenges our ability to cope and thus threatens our identity In the polycrisis the shocks are disparate but they interact so that the whole is even more overwhelming than the sum of the parts

Hence , it is in this context of the polycrisis that the challeng es in the way of attaining SDGs have become all the more severe , and therefore , require a more meaningful multilateral effor t. Having said, the progress in this regard has been far less than satisfactor y, with most negative effect of this on developing countries, especially since the covid-19 pandemic overall, and especially for those countries

Hence, it is in this context of the polycrisis that the challenges in the way of attaining SDGs have become all the more severe, and therefore, require a more meaningful multilateral effort Having said the progress in this regard has been far less than satisfactory with most negative effect of this on developing countries especially since the covid-19 pandemic overall and especially for those countries that are highly climate change vulnerable, for instance Pakistan, and in the context of reducing fiscal space, rising inflation, and increasing debt burden in particular In the same foreword the UN secretary general highlighted in this regard ‘The COVID-19 pandemic

and the triple crises of climate change biodiversity loss and pollution are having a devastating and lasting impact This has been amplified by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has driven increases in the prices of food and energy and in the cost of access to finance creating a global cost-of-living crisis affecting billions of people Developing countries are bearing the brunt of our collective failure to invest in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Many face a huge financing gap and are buried under a mountain of debt One in three countries is at high risk of being unable to service their debt Climate finance is also far below commitments and developed countries have not delivered the $100 billion that was promised annually from 2020 ’ There is indeed a need for both greater multilateral spirit and transformation of the global financial architecture, as pointed out in the same foreword by UN secretary general ‘But to deal with the root causes of this dire situation we need deep reform of our outdated dysfunctional and unfair international financial architecture We urgently need financial institutions that are fit for purpose; that ensure the benefits of globalization flow to all; and that deliver on their mandate by providing a safety net for all countries in troubled times In short, we need a new Bretton Woods moment Developing countries should have proportionate voice and representation in global decision-making institutions and processes

The writer holds PhD in Economics degree from the University of Barcelona and previously worked at International Monetary Fund Prior to this he did MSc in Economics from the University of York (United Kingdom) and worked at the Ministry of Economic Affairs & Statistics (Pakistan) among other places He is author of Springer published book (2016) The economic impact of International Monetary Fund programmes: institutional quality, macroeconomic stabilization and economic growth’ He tweets @omerjaved7

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

Wasting talent

Athrilling day at an annual fair in Wisconsin turned into a nerve wracking ordeal for several roller coaster riders after a mechanical failure left them stranded upside down for hours An amusement turned into a serious nightmare The oscillating Fireball was just sliding down from its vertical loop at the Forest County Festival in Wisconsin, when it stopped unexpectedly The hue and cry of the passengers hanging upside down from their safety harnesses for hours breaking free from the shackles of terrestrial times In a state of learned helplessness – Having little to no control over the situation We all want to know - Did the passengers make it to the ground?

Akin to this peculiar enjoyment of being afraid are We – The people of Pakistan – stuck upside down feeling vaguely uneasy in badly decorated rooms The fleeting sensation of being an almost weightless entity with only the pressure of a little foam triangle between you and a freefall into empty space From there – the top- to every problem there seems to be a plausible solution Perhaps Azadi– a stirring ring to the word - is freedom from disease and want liberty from subjugation and independence from all forms of exploitation It has roused rebels motivated poets, and inspired musicians to move into action against oppression, to throw away the shackles of convention, to break free of the constricting form and the format

Lately here the investigative agencies have detained many citizens appropriately arrested for engaging in violence on May 9 Many have been charged under vague and overbroad laws prohibiting rioting and creating threats to public order Citizens are being tried under the military laws, purely as an intimidation tactic, designed to crack down on dissent by exercising fear of an institution that has never been held to account for its overreach With a history of grossly unfair trials including those where people have been condemned to death and executed, military courts in Pakistan are not independent courts and are specialized, purely functional and designed to maintain discipline within the armed forces

Any indication that the trial of civilians could be held in military courts is incompatible

Not to mention let s not mention it From SMEs to large scale manufacturing businesses all have come to a halt Nevertheless the immigration business is booming Pakistan s brain drain has escalated as thousands have left And the trend shows no sign of abating more recently The latest data indicate that nearly 700 000 people left in the first three months of the year Salaries eaten by galloping inflation the value of the Pakistani rupee has been plummeting The brain drain is also noticeable in the country’s health care system Medical professionals are moving abroad in search of a better income and access to advanced medical technology As a result Pakistan s already-fragile health care system is facing a shortage of staff at local hospitals It is painful to see but can we blame them? This is a hackneyed script, replayed over and over and over again Since the 1980s, the term ‘transition to democracy’ has been used to describe those processes of political change that aim to leave behind a dictatorial past a situation of internal armed conflict or another type of radical breakdown of the political order or absence of the rule

For those of us who are scared to die in pain, but also rather scared to die in bed, what could be better than simply fainting away while hur tling through the air at 220 miles per hour? Your last conscious thought something between „IÊm flying!‰ and „wow, my back is pressed against a truly ergonomic seat‰? It sounds a lot better than this, anyway.

of law and to advance toward the foundation or reconstruction of a democratic system Speaking of a democratic system, the Constitution clearly and undoubtedly states that the election for National Assembly and Provincial assemblies would take place within 60 days of the expiry of their term but if assemblies are dissolved before their constitutional term by the prime minister and respective chief ministers, the election would be held within 90 days Reading down, Article 224 also stipulates that elections would be held in 90 days and a care-taker setup would be set up with the sole objective to facilitate the ECP in holding free fair as well as honest elections in accordance with the Constitution and law But interim setups in both the provinces have completed their constitutional time period of 90 days And the Constitution does not provide for continuation or extension of the period fixed for the interim set-ups In these circumstances can the interim set-ups be termed lawful and mustn t they be considered usurpers imposed by the ECP? Can the caretaker set-up with the tacit approval of a few approvers, in violation of all mandatory laws and standards of propriety, be permitted to embark upon the unchartered territories?

The centrifugal force drives the roller coaster upward and you are literally pinned to the seat your back pressed against the ergonomic planes of the seat so hard that your body is almost immobilized The rest of the ride, six or five loops, proceeds with your body being numb, ensuring that the trip ends your life

For us Azadi is August 14th The celebration of independence It is a patriotic song It is the colour green Correct me if I m wrong perhaps Azadi means no one is above or below anyone; no one is superior or inferior; no one is purer or more impure than the other We are far from being Azad - that is, free, as translated in a language we learnt as slaves

When no one owes anything to us we owe billions of dollars to other states to international financial institutions to our own state (in evaded taxes and unpaid utility bills)

For those of us who are scared to die in pain, but also rather scared to die in bed, what could be better than simply fainting away while hurtling through the air at 220 miles per hour? Your last conscious thought something between I m flying! and wow my back is pressed against a truly ergonomic seat ? It sounds a lot better than this, anyway To stem this brain, drain, we must offer our citizens a future worth staying for I leave it to you to decide if you want to get off the rollercoaster

I am a student at Harvard University and was lucky enough to receive a full scholarship from the university to cover my tuition and living expenses for my two academic years While I am extremely grateful for this generosity I do remember how frustrating the process of finding scholarships had been for me I was accepted into the prestigious master s programme for three consecutive years but funding was scarce to come by leading me to despairingly either defer or decline the acceptance each time At this moment, I am the only South Asian enrolled in this programme, and while two more very capable students from Pakistan have gotten accepted, they cannot find a way to pay for this education; therefore they have deferred the acceptances till the next year This is heart-breaking considering how rare such opportunities are to come by for hardworking intelligent students and how important it is for our country to be represented in a positive light at a coveted international university

My cohort includes students from Indonesia, China and Egypt, and the governments of these countries have funded these students’ education without them having any political connections or overtly affluent backgrounds The question then arises: why can we not have such funds available to our students? I understand we are struggling economically and are severely disadvantaged but should this not be a point of concern for the authorities in any way even if a few years down the road? Would they not want to see Pakistani students return to their country with a stellar education so they may make some difference? The Pakistanis I have met at Harvard are mostly those who could fund their education themselves, or take loans to pay off later But what should the students who cannot afford either option do? Those in power should pay attention to the matter As things stand currently they suggest a rather sad state of affairs

SARA AHMAD KARACHI

The ‘filthy’ rich

W E have shown serious concerns about pollution and climate change at government and private levels But it seems we, as a society, are adept only at paying lip-service What is happening at the Creek Club in Karachi is a good example of how we are apathetic towards our environment

Located at an attractive edge of a creek leading to open sea this club manifests almost all the reasons and the contradictions that keep Pakistan behind the rest of the world by decades After all only in a convoluted and cruel society will the average monthly bill of a club member exceed the average monthly wage illegally given to the contracted sanitation workers of the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB) and the Sindh municipalities This is however about a much more earthly matter The impeccable services offered by the club gym and jogging beverages and brunches parlour and partying are praiseworthy But they also give rise to a fundamental question How does the club disposes of its raw sewage generated as a by-product of its activities and operations?

It may be best to begin by knowing the latest facts of this tragic saga, as updated by the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) through its letter DHA/Appeal-2587-03/23 dated May 12, 2023 The club produces an effluent (raw sewage) of 40 000 gallons per day or 14 6 million gallons per year Without batting an eyelid without a strain on conscience and without a concern for the consequences the entire unsavoury semi-liquid stuff is directly released into the waters of the Arabian Sea polluting the ocean killing marine life, spreading filth and disease, and harming the environment

This unforgiveable environmental violation has continued on for over 20 years The club management as well as its members have no remorse at the scale of destruction they are causing and the Sindh Environmental Authority has no interest in this issue at all All this illegal dumping is considered kosher even while the sewage treatment plants next to an international food chain and the nearby golf club operate at half of their designed capacities NAEEM SADIQ

S

T h e m y t h o f f r e e d o m

SarmaD Sattar

A ro l l e rco a s te r we c a n’t g e t o f f

Dr Omer JaveD

US ENVOY KERRY ARRIVES IN CHINA TO RESTART CLIMATE TALKS

WASHINGTON

A F P

US climate envoy John Kerry arrived in China on Sunday state media reported to restart stalled talks between the world s two biggest emitters of planet-warming gases

Starting on Monday “China and the United States will have an in-depth exchange of views on climate issues state broadcaster CCTV said on Kerry s arrival in Beijing Kerry s trip to China, where he will meet with his counterpart Xie Zhenhua, follows weeks of record-setting summer heat that scientists say is being exacerbated by climate change

Bilateral climate talks stalled last year after Nancy Pelosi then speaker of the US House of Representatives, visited self-ruled Taiwan and infuriated Beijing, which considers the island its territory

But Kerry a former secretary of state has enjoyed comparatively cordial and consistent relations with China despite Washington and Beijing locking horns over Taiwan and a number of other thorny issues, including advanced semiconductors

His trip to Beijing is his third as President Joe Biden’s climate emissary and also comes after two other high-profile visits by US officials first Secretary of State Antony Blinken then

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen aimed at stabilising US-China ties

The Biden administration has identified climate as an area for potential cooperation with Beijing despite the tensions elsewhere

The restart of US-China climate talks will come on the heels of the hottest week on record globally, according to the World Meteorological Organisation

June was already the hottest ever logged, according to US and European agencies Kerry will aim to use his time in Beijing to engage with Chinese officials with respect to increasing implementation and ambition and promoting a

Fight Force sets to host kickboxing tournament in Dubai with India V Pakistan happening again

LAHORE

Fight Force, a renowned combat sports promoter, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for Pakistani kickboxers to participate in the highly anticipated Four Nations Grand Prix This prestigious tournament will bring together the best fighters from India Pakistan the Philippines and Bangladesh offering a platform for Pakistani kickboxing talent to shine on the international stage

The Four Nations Grand Prix is a groundbreaking event that aims to promote the growth of kickboxing and foster healthy competition among these four nations This tournament provides an opportunity for Pakistani fighters to showcase their skills represent their country, and potentially make a name for themselves in the world of combat sports

“Seeing the youth engaging in Sports and bringing a positive impact to the community gives me immense pleasure in supporting such initiatives as it helps the next generation avoid bad habits such as drug abuse and puts them on the right path of achieving their dreams said the Chairman of Adam Global Professor Tahir Akhtar, a doctorpreneur who is originally from Pakistan but is now a multi-award leading Medical Professional based in the UK, and owns the largest Worldwide Platform of Providers of Quality Professional Services from Accredited and Regulated Professionals around the world Notably the founders of Fight Force have previously organised a historic India vs Pakistan professional kickboxing competition in Dubai The event witnessed an incredible knockout victory by Pakistani fighter Abdullah Shakeel Chandio, who impressed audiences by defeating his Indian opponent in just 20 seconds into the second round This remarkable achievement propelled Abdullah Shakeel Chandio to further success leading him to settle in Dubai and advance his career in kickboxing The success of the India vs Pakistan event, along with Fight Force s commitment to promoting combat sports, has paved the way for the Four Nations Grand Prix Fight Force recognizes the immense talent and potential among Pakistani kickboxers and is dedicated to providing them with a platform to compete against top fighters from other countries Applications are

Now Open for Four Nations Grand Prix –

Showcasing Pakistani Kickboxing Talent

Fight Force invites all aspiring Pakistani kickboxers to seize this golden opportunity and participate in the Four Nations Grand Prix

successful COP28 the State Department said, referring to the UN climate talks in November Nearly 200 nations will gather in the United Arab Emirates for COP28 to thrash out ways to mitigate global warming and its impacts

E N E R G Y C O N S T R A I N T S : As the leading producer of the greenhouse gases driving climate change, China has pledged to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve complete carbon neutrality by 2060 President Xi Jinping has also said that the country will reduce its use of coal from 2026

But in April China approved a major

surge in coal power a move Greenpeace said prioritised energy supply over the emissions reduction pledge fuelling concerns that Beijing will struggle to meet its ambitious targets

There are a number of factors that constrain the hands of energy planners in Beijing at the moment, Byford Tsang, a senior policy adviser at the climate-focused think tank E3G, told AFP

They include economic fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which has led to major disruptions in the global gas market and reduced hydropower capacity in China due to severe droughts in recent years, Tsang said Last summer, millions of people in southwest China faced rolling power cuts after crushing heatwaves led to an electricity supply crunch that forced factories to halt work heightening domestic concerns over energy security I think it would be politically challenging for China to take a step forward on coal policy at this stage,” added Tsang During his visit Kerry is also expected to bring up international climate finance efforts following calls by Yellen during her Beijing trip for China to play a larger role Kerry s trip will be closely watched in Washington after Republican lawmakers characterised it as him flying a carbon-spewing private jet halfway across the world to discuss climate with a political adversary

Biden’s elec tion war chest trails

Trump’s in size, filings show

WASHINGTON

R E U T E R S

President Joe Biden s re-election campaign ended last month with about $20 million in the bank, just trailing the $22 million plus reported by leading Republican candidate Donald Trump according to financial disclosures released on Saturday The disclosures filed to the Federal Election Commission point to a competitive money race ahead of the November 2024 presidential election Biden has amassed a smaller war chest to past presidents at this point in recent re-election campaigns Democrat Barack Obama had $37 million at this point in 2011 while Trump had more than $56 million in June 2019 T h e f u n d s d e t a i l e d i n t h e d i s c l o s u r e s r e p r e s e n t a s i g n i f ic a n t c h u n k o f t h e f u n d i n g b e -

h i n d t h e c a m p a i g n s b u t d o n o t i n c l u d e m o n e y g a t h e r e d b y a llied super PACs which typically r a i s e m a s s i v e s u m s f r o m t h e wealthiest donors and are due to disclose details on their finances later in July

Biden’s campaign announced on Friday that his re-election effort when including the Democratic Party s accounts had $77 million in the bank

The president is not expected to face a serious challenge in the Democratic nomination contest

One challenger anti-vaccine activist Robert F Kennedy Jr reported raising just $6 million through June, while another, selfhelp guru Marianne Williamson, took in less than $1 million Trump’s campaign, which was launched in November reported spending about $9 million in the three months through June more than any other campaign

Alcaraz will have to kick Djokovic off his throne, says Wilander

LONDON

R E U T E R S

Carlos Alcaraz will have to kick Novak Djokovic off his Wimbledon throne in Sunday s final because he will not be given an inch, according to seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander

The 20-year-old Spaniard will attempt to end Djokovic’s 34-match winning run on the Wimbledon grass and deny the Serbian a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title and fifth straight title at the All England Club where he has been champion seven times

Alcaraz is already world number one and claimed last year ’s U S Open by beating Casper Ruud, but the challenge of Djokovic is “another universe” according to Wilander

Should he succeed however the Swede believes it would represent a seismic shift in men s tennis

If he can put the puzzle together against Novak who gives you nothing, then we re talking about somebody who’s going to transcend our game,” Wilander, who heads Eurosport’s coverage of the final told Reuters at Wimbledon on Saturday

according to the disclosures wiled to election regulators The spending included more than $2 million paid to Campaign Inbox LLC, a digital fundraising firm

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who ranks second to Trump in most opinion polls for the Republican nomination contest had about $12 million in his campaign account considerably less than the $21 million had by fellow Republican Tim Scott, a US senator for South Carolina DeSantis and Scott launched their campaigns in May

Long-shot Republican candidates Doug Burgum and Vivek Ramaswamy disclosed putting millions of dollars of their own money into their campaigns Burgum, the governor of North Dakota lent about $10 million to his campaign and Ramaswamy a former biotechnology executive lent his about $15 million

It s really important that Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic in a Grand Slam final before (Djokovic s career) is over It s really important for our sport that the person that s the champion gets kicked off the throne, just like Lleyton Hewitt did with Pete Sampras

“It would be an injection of energy for our sport if Carlos can do that at some point if not tomorrow then at the U S Open One of the young guys needs to beat Novak before he s done

Alcaraz s all-court game has wowed the Wimbledon crowds this year and Wilander says he is the complete package

“He has the shot selection of (Roger) Federer He’s got Rafa (Nadal’s) passion He’s got Djokovic’s movement And then he has one more thing which none of them had or have which is the smile

The ease that he does everything with and it looks so comfortable Alcaraz destroyed Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev to set up the Djokovic showdown but will need to replicate that performance, and some, if he is to win on Sunday says Wilander

The Spaniard faced Djokovic in an eagerly-awaited French Open semi-final last month but after winning the opening set he suffered cramp and was overwhelmed in four sets Of course, Djokovic can lose but I don t think he cares less about that any more,” Wilander said “He’s going to come in and play at about 90 percent the whole time dipping to maybe 85 percent and sometimes up to 95 percent But he s going to be there the whole time Carlos is going to be rollercoasting through the match because you can t stay with Novak for five sets You have to go in and out Novak will have no dip

Mexican newspaper El Universal reported

The attack took place after 3:00 pm in the neighbourhood of Emiliano Zapata in the north of Acapulco, Mexican newspaper Reforma reported Reforma added that Matus had survived two assassination attempts in 2017 and 2019 citing local media Matus death comes one week after the body of Luis Martin Sanchez, a journalist for Mexican newspaper La Jornada, was found

after going missing in the state of Nayarit The Guerrero state attorney general s office did not respond immediately to a request for comment

In Mexico investigating corruption crime and drug cartels often comes at a high risk The country was the deadliest in the world last year for journalists, according to media watchdog Reporters without Borders

“The thing with Carlos is can he do what all of us did when we were really young which is suddenly because of the adrenaline play a match you didn’t even realise you could play like Boris Becker here in 1985

It s possible that Carlos Alcaraz plays 25 percent better tomorrow because that s happened before to young guys, and girls

With Federer retired, Nadal soon to follow and Djokovic in the final chapters of his career, despite still being the dominant force men’s tennis is at the end of an era with those three having shared 65 Grand Slam titles Carlos has come at a perfect time Wilander said He s so infectious, he s the perfect person at the perfect time But he can t keep losing to Djokovic in Grand Slams ”

De S ilva leads S ri Lank a fight back against Pakistan after early collapse in G alle Test

GALLE, SRI LANKA: Dhananjaya de Silva hit an unbeaten 94 as Sri Lanka recovered from an early collapse to reach 242-6 at stumps on a rain-hit day one of the first Test against Pakistan in the city of Galle on Sunday The fifth-wicket pair of de Silva and Angelo Mathews (64) put on 131 after Sri Lanka had slipped to 54-4 in the opening session with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking three wickets on his Test return De Silva stood firm in an extended final session in Galle despite losing his partner Sadeera Samarawickrama who made 36 after a 57-run stand Wicketkeeper-batsman Samarawickrama fell to Agha Salman s spin and play which had witnessed two rain interruptions at a cost of 24 2 overs lost was called off for the day De Silva batted elegantly with deft cuts drives and pulls and amassed 10 fours and three sixes one of them to reach his fifty But he slowed down in the final hour of play as he awaits his 10th Test century in his 50th match Mathews, playing his 105th Test, raised his 39th half-century in the five-day format

The pair seemed comfortable and de Silva started to take on the bowlers with boundaries, but leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed got former captain Mathews caught behind at the stroke of tea Sri Lanka had looked in trouble at lunch which was put back by an hour after officials adjusted the session timings to make up for a first rain delay of nearly 90 minutes Afridi a left-arm quick playing his 26th Test moved from 99 to a century of wickets on his return from injury when he sent back Nishan Madushka caught behind for four in his second over The 23-year-old had injured his knee at the same venue a year ago Rain soon arrived in Galle to interrupt proceedings but Afridi took another wicket when action resumed as he got Kusal Mendis out for 12 Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne hit back with a few boundaries before Afridi got him out for 29, caught behind attempting a glance down the leg side Fast bowler Naseem Shah soon joined in to get Dinesh Chandimal out for one with a quick delivery as skipper Babar Azam pulled off a tough catch at third slip One of many milestones Former men s captain Wasim Akram congratulated Afridi on achieving his 100th Test wicket and termed it “one of the many milestones to come” A G E N C I E S

Dangerous heat waves strike globe as wildfires rage

Republic of Congo diocese

In Japan authorities issued heatstroke alerts to tens of millions of people in 20 of its 47 prefectures as near-record high temperatures scorched large areas and torrential rain pummelled other regions National broadcaster NHK warned the heat was life-threatening with the capital and other places recording nearly 40 degrees Celsius Japan s highest temperature ever 41 1 C first recorded in Kumagaya city Saitama, in 2018 could be beaten, according to the meteorological agency

places experienced their highest temperatures in more than four decades on Sunday including Hirono town in

Fukushima prefecture with 37 3°C

The United States National Weather Service reported that a powerful heatwave stretching from California to Texas was expected to peak during an extremely hot and dangerous weekend California’s Death Valley, often among the hottest places on Earth is also likely to register new peaks on Sunday with the mercury possibly surpassing 54 C At a Texas construction site outside Houston, a 28-year-old worker who gave his name only as Juan struggled in the blazing heat “Just when I take a drink of

CORPORATE CORNER

IESCO issues power suspension programme

BEIJING S TA F F R E P O R T

MI N I S T E R for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has emphasized the potential of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Pakistan to attract Chinese investments

In an interview during his visit to China, he highlighted that Pakistan offers foreign investment incentives and concessions that Chinese enterprises can leverage through SEZs Iqbal revealed that Pakistan is currently working on establishing nine SEZs with the first one Rashakai Special Economic Zone, set to be inaugurated later this month Other SEZs in Sindh, Punjab, and Baluchistan are also in advanced stages of development

The minister underscored Pakistan’s advantages including a low cost of labour and production which could appeal to Chinese companies facing rising costs in China and considering relocation to countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos

He highlighted the country’s robust i n f r a s t r u c t u r e a n d t h e C h i n a - P a k i s t a n E c o n o m i c C o r r i d o r ( C P E C ) f r a m ew o r k a s a d d i t i o n a l a t t r a c t i o n s f o r C h in e s e e n t e r p r i s e s

Iqbal mentioned that several Chinese

Exhibition: ‘Celebrating The Heritage Of Karachi’ continues

KARACHI: A one of its kind exhibition titled: An Exhibition of Watercolour on Paper Celebrating The Heritage Of Karachi by the versatile artist Hamir Soomro was began at Art Council of Pakistan Karachi, which will continue till July 18, 2023

The exhibition displayed paintings featuring iconic and heritage sites in Karachi such as the Mohatta Palace Frere Street Station Empress Market and many more Art lovers from across the country attended the exhibition, and were in absolute awe of Soomro’s exquisite watercolour paintings inspired by Karachi’s rich cultural heritage PR

Measures needed for industr y to put economy on track: PIAF

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Pakistan Industrial and Traders Associations Front (PIAF) Faheemur

Rehman Saigol stressing the need for putting the economy on a sustainable growth trajectory by providing incentives to the industry, has lamented that the economy was facing multiple challenges of falling exports, high inflation, and low growth, with fiscal accounts under immense pressure on account of heavy interest payments

In a statement on Sunday the PIAF Chairman said that the low growth shows the government was finding it difficult to achieve the industrial growth and export target, leading to more pressure on foreign exchange reserves of the country He asked the government to address the underlying structural vulnerabilities through smooth energy supply at competitive rates as country s overall export proceeds continued to shrink PR

Mafia pushed sugar prices to highest point in countr y ’s histor y: PEW

LAHORE: President of Pakistan Economy Watch

(PEW) Dr Murtaza Mughal has said that the influential sugar mafia has pushed the price of sugar to the highest level in the country's history

In a statement issued on Sunday, he warned that if the sugar exports were not stopped the price will exceed two hundred rupees per kg in the open market Dr Murtaza Mughal said that allowing exports despite the decline in production is an injustice to the people which only benefits the sugar mafia Sugar will become scarce in the country before the next crushing season if exports continue at this pace, he warned He informed that now sugar was fetching 150 to 160 rupees per kg in different parts of the country and its price was continuously increasing The business leader said that if the export of sugar was not immediately banned, it will exceed two hundred rupees per kg, which will be unaffordable for the majority

companies have already invested in the Gwadar free zone However he expressed Pakistan’s interest in collaborating with Chinese firms specializing in seed development and research to upgrade the quality of Pakistani seeds Pakistan also seeks new irrigation technologies to enhance water conservation and agricultural efficiency

Furthermore Iqbal identified opportunities in the mining sector particularly in utilizing advanced technology to extract marble lithium and other resources for applications like electric vehicles

The minister highlighted Pakistan s potential in the information technology sector with its young population possessing strong IT skills He mentioned that

Chinese technology companies are increasingly shifting operations to Pakistan due to the combination of affordable human resources and high skill levels

Iqbal emphasized the promising prospects for Chinese investment in agriculture, industry, mining, IT, and the energy sector Regarding the housing sector, he suggested that large Chinese real estate companies could invest in Pakistan to address the country s substantial housing shortage He emphasized the government s willingness to offer attractive terms for public-private partnerships in this area

When questioned about the security of CPEC projects Iqbal assured that the government has taken extra precautions

Pakistan attaches highest impor tance to trade with Afghanistan: CEO TDAP

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

Chief Executive Trade Development Authority Pakistan (TDAP) Muhammad Zubair Motiwala on Sunday said that being the largest trading partner Pakistan attaches highest importance to its trade facilitation for Afghanistan

Addressing the opening ceremony of Imam Abu Hanifa Exhibition held in Kabul on Sunday Motiwala expressed gratitude to the Afghan government for providing such business opportunities to Pakistani exhibitors which will further widen the business-to-busi-

ness relations between the two fraternal neighbors

He further shared that more than 25 leading Pakistani manufacturers are participating in the exhibition, making Pakistan’s largest participation in the fair

He emphasized that traders and businessmen on both sides should benefit from the opportunities presented by this exhibition He stated that Pakistan always supports such bold steps which could generate a conducive environment for business communities of the region

Motiwala stated that Pakistan is also playing all possible facilitation for Afghanistan s smooth global

trade through the transit facility provided by Pakistan He shared with the audience that Pakistan has granted massive tariff concessions on all Afghan fruits and vegetables exported to Pakistan

He expressed his views that the Afghan government should make business-friendly investment policies to attract investment from bilateral investors

He also stressed the improvement of supply chain management by the Afghan government so that Afghanistan’s business community could receive goods on time In the end he along with the head of mission visited Pakistani stalls

I l l e g a l wat e r c o n n e c t i o n s d i s r u p t e d i n

to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel

Four layers of security have been implemented including a dedicated force of 10,000 personnel solely responsible for CPEC project security These personnel are integrated with local police and paramilitary forces to provide the highest level of protection

Iqbal acknowledged that negative propaganda against CPEC often contains political motivations and lacks a factual basis He highlighted the positive impact of CPEC on Pakistan, such as addressing the energy crisis, developing modern infrastructure and enhancing the country’s image as an investment destination

The substantial investments made by China under the CPEC framework have attracted global attention, positioning Pakistan as an appealing investment opportunity Expressing his personal sentiments about the CPEC project Iqbal praised the enduring and exceptional relationship between China and Pakistan

He described the bond between the two countries as based on mutual trust and iron brotherhood, which has fostered the success of CPEC Iqbal commended the dedication and passion exhibited by leaders and officials from both nations in making CPEC a reality within a relatively short span of 10 years

Maximum relief to masses from inflation main objective: Memon

KARACHI

S TA F F R E P O R T

Sindh Minister for Information and Transport Sharjeel

Inam Memon has said that provincial government was making all out efforts to modernize the transport system

This was stated by him while chairing a meeting of Sindh Mass Transit Authority board in Karachi on Sunday Sharjeel Memon vowed to resolve transport issues by modernizing entire transport system and ensuring provision of additional buses The provincial minister said that providing maximum relief to people during this period of inflation is main objective of the government

AIOU starts admissions to autumn semester

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

per the instructions of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) chairman Noor ul-Amin Mengal a crackdown on illegal water supply connections was carried out by the deputy director general of the Water Management Wing Approximately 40 more illegal water supply connections were disconnected in Bari Imam and Quaide-Azam University areas, as stated in a press statement Some of these connections were found to be re-connected In total around 150 connections have been severed and instructions have been issued to file First Investigation Reports (FIRs) and impose heavy fines on those who have reinstated illegal connections

Over the past few months the water supply to Islamabad has been adversely affected due to these unauthorised connections Consequently, water pressure in various sectors of Islamabad has significantly decreased, resulting in a surge of daily complaints

The excessive number of illegal connections has led to reduced pressure in the main water lines and a shortage of water reaching the major tanks in Islamabad impacting the civilian sectors

Since the initiation of action against these illegal connections, there has been a noticeable reduction in the drop of water pressure in the main water line

During the operation the deputy director general of the Water Management Wing emphasised strict instructions to staff emphasising the immediate disconnection of all remaining illegal connections and continued robust enforcement actions against violators

Provision of NFC share imperative for economic development of B alochistan: Zubaida Jalal

poverty, said a news release

I s l a m a b a d fo l l ow i n g C DA b o s s ’ o r d e r QUETTA S

Member of the National Assembly Zubaida Jalal has said that the provision of the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award is imperative for the economic development of the province and to bring it up to the level of other provinces

Talking to members of the business community here on Sunday she expressed that the federal government has acknowledged Balochistan s backwardness but failed to effectively address the issues and lift the people out of

The main reason for the poverty and backwardness of Balochistan is the lack of funds and not enough share in the NFC Award despite the fact that Balochistan constitutes half of Pakistan, she explained

She said that the provision of security for half of Pakistan is a huge challenge and the province spends 40 per cent of its resources on maintaining law and order

We are asserting our rights in accordance with the law and the Constitution while remaining within our means We ought not to be found in some unacceptable

light said Jalal and added, “We are also demanding our right, and every province demands its right ”

She said that the Iranian diesel and petroleum exchange at the boundary is being facilitated to guarantee the continuation of individuals jobs, empowering them to keep their ovens consuming in their homes This action was taken to try not to deny our kin of work until we can give them elective wellsprings of occupation

She said there were few government jobs and no industries in Balochistan If people remain unemployed, they may fall prey to the propaganda of anti-state elements

Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) announced the schedule for the admissions to the autumn semester (first phase) 2023 According to the university the admissions for the first phase of Semester Autumn 2023 have commenced from July 15 while the admissions for the second phase will start from September 1 across the country Vice Chancellor AIOU, Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood has approved the establishment of facilitation centres information counters and prospectus sale points across the country to facilitate the students at the nearest places to their residences Dr Nasir Mahmood instructed all regional heads to guide the students properly Meanwhile, the prospectuses and admission application forms for all the programs will be available online on the university website (www aiou edu pk) on July 15, 2023

It may be mentioned here that the admission in BS (face to face) MS/MPhil and PhD programmes can only be applied via online system whereas admission application forms for matriculation intermediate and I Com can be submitted manually as well as via online mode In case of online submission of admission application form, the candidates are not required to dispatch printed application form to the university

Carpet expor ters ask gov t to stabilize dollar rate to boost economy

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) while congratulating Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on signing an agreement with the IMF said that the government is requested to keep the dollar at a stable level as exports are adversely affected due to fluctuations in the dollar These views were expressed by senior vice-chairman Usman Ashraf, central leader Abdul Latif Malik, chairperson of Carpet Training Institute Ejazur Rehman senior member Riaz Ahmed Saeed Khan Shahid Hasan Sheikh Kamran Razi and Tahir Abbas in a joint statement issued on Sunday

Gwadar Free Zone Nor th set to star t operation in 30 days

PETROLEUM DIVISION PROPOSES THIRD PART Y ACCESS TO UNUTILIZED LNG TERMINAL CAPACIT Y

TH E Petroleum Division has prepared a summary for the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet regarding the Third-Party Access (TPA) to government-contracted unutilized capacity of LNG terminals

The proposal aims at addressing the issue of unutilized capacity and exploring opportunities for private parties to access and utilize the excess capacity

Currently, Pakistan has two LNG terminals, namely Engro Elengy Terminal Private Limited (EETPL) and Pakistan Gas Port Consortium Limited (PGPCL)

While the capacity of Terminal-1 is fully utilized Terminal-2 has remaining unutilized capacity In line with the decision of the ECC in July 2020, the Petroleum Division has initiated efforts to auction the unutilized capacity of Terminal-2 to private parties

However previous attempts to auction the unutilized capacity have been unsuccessful with no or ineligible applications received The hesitancy of inter-

ested companies to engage in the capacity allocation process, along with the impact of high international LNG prices, has been cited as key challenges

To address these issues the Petroleum Division has engaged with stakeholders and sought input from the World Bank and international consultants

According to sources, the proposed framework suggests that only industrial consumers and their consortia should be eligible to participate in the auction for the unutilized capacity ensuring a fair and

Jirga succeeds in brokering peace agreement in Kurram

PESHAWAR

A 30-member peace jirga succeeded in brokering a peace agreement between the two rival tribes of the tribal district Kurram on Sunday

After the signing of the one-year peace agreement, the personnel of security forces and police were deployed after clearing the fronts of the parties and normalcy began to be restored

Talking to APP Additional Deputy

Commissioner (ADC) Kurram Muazzam Khan

Bangash said that a 30-member peace jirga comprising Sunni and Shia elders from Orakzai Hangu and Kohat after hectic efforts of negotiations with both parties for a period of last three days succeeded in stoppage of clashes in Kurram district and signing of a peace agreement

In case of violation of the peace treaty during a period of one year the violator will pay a fine of Rs120 million

Commissioner Kohat Division, Muhammad Ali

Shah, Brigadier Shahzad Azim, Deputy

Commissioner (DC) Kurram Syed Saiful Islam Shah Regional Police Officer (RPO) Kohat and other officials were also present at the jirga

Speaking on the occasion Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resources Sajid Hussain Turi termed the signing of the peace agreement a good omen, which will make reaching to actual culprits easy Similarly, he said action will also be taken against those who obstruct the highways Sajid Turi said that whatever disputes there are between the parties they should sit together and cooperate with each other to solve them amicably

On the occasion, former MPA Riyaz Shaheen said that the secret of the development of Kurram district was peace and all schools of thought need steps to establish sustainable peace in the district

competitive process The allocation of capacity would be based on a competitive auction, taking into consideration the government’s socioeconomic agenda downstream demand and LNG import plans

Additionally amendments to the existing Third Party Access Rules and LNG Policy have been identified to streamline the import of RLNG by industrial consumers for self-consumption This would enable industrial consumers to have direct access arrangements with transporters without requiring a shipper s

license, reducing reliance on the government for supply and subsidies

The proposal also addresses concerns about short-term allocation processes and suggests allowing the auction of unutilized capacity for a specified period and quota, as determined by the Petroleum Division Proportional allocation of capacity would not be applicable under this proposed framework as it focuses on industrial use based on a competitive selection process

The summary has been circulated to relevant divisions and ministries, including OGRA, Finance, Planning, Power, and Industries, for their input and comments

The Minister In-Charge for the Petroleum Division has reviewed and authorized the submission of the summary to the ECC

The proposed Third Party Access to un-utilized LNG terminal capacity in Pakistan aims to optimize resource utilization, encourage private sector participation and promote a competitive market for LNG The ECC will review the summary and make a decision in line with the government s objective of enhancing efficiency and transparency in the energy sector

PM urges women to ramp up role in economic progress of countr y

SIALKOT S TA F F R E P O R T

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday urged women to come forward and ramp up their vital roles in different fields of life and make contributions to the progress of the economy

Addressing a ceremony to distribute laptops under PM s Youth

Laptop Scheme 2023 at Government College Women University

(GCWU) in Sialkot here he said Rs5 billion were allocated for projects related to the empowerment of women No nation can make progress if women are not made productive part of society

He said in the past his government had spent a substantial amount on the medical education of female students and the investment in women s education would continue He said next month his government would complete its tenure and a caretaker government would be formed

If people would give chance to them in the next election our government would bring revolution in the field of education and a large number of students would be given laptops he remarked

He said the laptops were given as recognition of the hard work and talent of the students The laptops were distributed on the basis of merit in the past as well he added

As Khadim e Aala Punjab he said he always wanted to share the resources with other provinces as

the progress and prosperity of the country depended upon shared development

He said 100,000 laptops had already been distributed while in the current year another 100 000 laptops would be awarded The people should decide in the general elections after evaluating what had happened in the country in the last five years, he asserted

He thanked Finance Minister Ishaq Dar for ensuring the allocation of funds for the import of laptops for students He said students would be given more laptops and scholarships and laboratories and research institutes would be set up in educational institutions Shehbaz Sharif said Muslims were left behind in different fields of education while the West moved ahead and it was time for reflection and action in the right direction He called on students to work hard and show humbleness and Allah will

After PPP, PML-N decides to get ‘share’ in GB gov t

Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) has also decided to join Gilgit Baltistan government after Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)

According to sources, the power-sharing formula regarding the Gilgit Baltistan government has been finalized and the power will be shared on the basis of majority Sources said PPP will get three posts in the government they will be given the office of deputy speaker Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly and two ministries, and PML-N will also get two ministries PPP has nominated candidates for the ministries including Engineer Ismail and Shehzad Agha Peoples Party have four Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz three members in the GB assembly

Haji Gulbar Khan of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) forward bloc was elected new Chief Minister of the GB region recently He had received the support of 19 lawmakers, also included the PPP and PML-N members

In 32 members house PTI had 19 members PPP four PML-N three Muttahida Wahdat-i-Muslimeen three JUI-F one and two other members

Former CM of the region had nominated Raja Azam Khan for the coveted position with the approval of the PTI chief, which failed to win the majority of the legislature

People’s Party has also been a partner in Azad Kashmir government

New nuclear power unit expor ted to Pakistan: company

help them in their efforts

He said after the financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the government had a cushion and it decreased petrol prices on Saturday Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif said that the dynamic and active role of the prime minister during the past fifteen months was extraordinary Chairman Higher Education Commission Dr Mukhtar Ahmed in his remarks said that HEC had actively played its part in the distribution of about one million laptops among the students on merit

He said the females enrollment in universities had increased by more than 48 per cent and the prime minister ’s laptop scheme was the most encouraging initiative Earlier Punjab police personnel presented a guard of honour to the students and teachers as a token of respect

BEIJING

M O N I T O R I N G R E P O R T

China has exported a new nuclear power unit to Pakistan, according to the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC)

Unit 5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (C-5) broke ground recently marking another milestone in nuclear energy cooperation between China and Pakistan

It is the third one-million-kilowatt-class unit of Hualong One, China s self-developed third-generation nuclear power technology, and the seventh nuclear power unit exported from China to Pakistan

The CNNC said it had built two nuclear power bases in Pakistan with a total of six nuclear power units which can provide nearly 30 billion kWh of clean electricity every year equivalent to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 24 48 million tonnes per year

The construction of the C-5 project will further enhance Pakistan s energy security, help promote Pakistan’s economic development, and improve the well-being of local people said the CNNC

At the groundbreaking ceremony China and Pakistan reached a consensus on enhancing collaboration across the entire industry chain and achieving mutual benefits and win-win results

Insight into how business graduate triggers turnaround in SNGPL operation

2020 to December 2020 we reduced UFG

from 12 32% to 7 56%

Roohi Raees Khan, a business graduate from the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) in Karachi has assumed the role of Chairperson of SNGPL s Board of Directors With almost 30 years of experience in senior-level positions across various sectors, including development banking, she brings valuable expertise in dealing with industrial setups Her leadership skills and ability to overcome challenges have made a significant impact on SNGPL s operations She attributes the company s success to the teamwork of her fellow board colleagues and the skilled, experienced, and qualified human resources within SNGPL Question: When you took charge as Chairperson of SNGPL's Board of Directors, what were the targets set by the Board, and how much progress has been made in achieving them?

RRK: Since the start of our tenure in 2020 the Board has played a crucial leadership role Our primary focus has been on addressing the issue of unaccounted-for gas (UFG) losses, which directly impact the company's profitability We recognized that reducing UFG was imperative for the company s success

Additionally we emphasized digitization cost control and strengthening audit and controls through improved systems and procedures These measures aimed to enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and good governance ultimately contributing to the company's bottom line Our goal was to ensure that SNGPL operates sustainably and dynamically as an energy company To achieve this we set two main directions for the management Firstly, we wanted to develop a longterm strategy to address emerging challenges, such as natural gas shortages and competition in the sector Secondly we focused on enhanc-

ing operational efficiency and addressing issues related to UFG and gas marketing

The Board's persistent guidance and vigilance resulted in a historic reduction of 15 billion cubic feet (BCF) in UFG during the fiscal year 2020-2021 leading to record profits We also formed a Board subcommittee to rationalize operational expenditures, which resulted in savings of approximately Rs 2 billion

Moreover, we strengthened the internal audit function and improved the company's business systems, enhancing efficiency and transparency These measures were implemented to make SNGPL a progressive organization in the long run

Question: SNGPL has shown significant improvement in reducing UFG, which has been a persistent challenge in the gas sector How was this achievement made possible?

RRK: Reducing UFG has always been a top priority for the federal government and our Board accepted the challenge High UFG levels had adversely affected the company s profitability for many years Our goal was to achieve single-digit UFG levels

From July

Reducing UFG would not have been possible without the essential support of relevant stakeholders We obtained unwavering support from the Petroleum Division to effectively address this issue In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Karak was a significant area with high UFG levels, which posed a considerable challenge between 2016 and 2019 To gain support from the provincial administration the Board and management held meetings with key officials in KPK in 2020 We also conducted the first-ever Board meeting in KPK's history in November 2020, which played a vital role in gaining local support for UFG control Personally I visited the troubled areas of Karak which had the highest contribution to UFG to motivate SNGPL officials to sustain and further reduce UFG The exceptional performance by the SNGPL team in Karak has been recognized and rewarded in May 2023, inspiring and encouraging managers in other high UFG areas

Through a comprehensive strategy and intensive sessions of the UFG Committee we surpassed the UFG reduction target set by the federal government for the period from 2019 to 2022 We continue to focus on initiatives like TBS metering, which will further control UFG Our three-year UFG Sustainability Strategy developed on the Board's directions aims to ensure consistent UFG control in the future

Question: In a highly competitive environment how does the Board envision the future of SNGPL?

RRK: The Board has placed great emphasis on developing a dynamic strategy document that outlines the company's viable future direction This strategy document recently completed and approved by the Board focuses on addressing challenges in both business as usual and diversification We aim to translate ideas into specific viable businesses while leveraging SNGPL s key strengths Our strategy aims to mitigate challenges in an everchanging energy sector and the introduction of competition through market liberalization

g INTERVIEW WITH ROOHI RAEES KHAN, CHAIRPERSON OF SNGPL BOARD OF DIRECTORS