Epaper_23-09-03 ISB

COUNTRYWIDE SHUTDOWN OBSERVED AGAINST INFLATED ELECTRICITY BILLS, INFLATION

TAC, OTHER BODIES GIVE 72 HOURS TO REDUCE EXCESSIVE ELECTRICITY BILLS, WITHDRAW POL PRICE HIKE

few days to review the situation

KARACHI/LAHORE/PESHAWAR

S

Ashutdown was observed across the country on Saturday with commercial hubs and business centres remained shut in all major cities across the country to protest against rising inflation and unprecedented electricity bills

The strike call was given by the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and supported by most of the traders associations, lawyers and other segments of the society

All commercial hubs and business centres remained shut in Karachi Lahore and Peshawar as well as other major cities across the country while public transport were also restricted, reducing vehicular traffic on major thoroughfares

In Karachi, the Tajir Action Committee (TAC) has given the interim government 72 hours to reduce excessive electricity bills and withdraw recently imposed petroleum levies This announcement was made yesterday (Friday) While commending JI for raising its voice against increasing costs of living TAC Convener Muhammad Rizwan said that there was no compulsion on traders in the metropolis to join the strike but skyrocketing inflation is worrisome

The traders body warned that if the interim government does not follow through within the 72-hour deadline,

they would hold a prolonged strike of 10 days, impacting commercial activities across the board

He reminded Interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar that a caretaker government s mandate is to hold elections not impose new taxes

Most commercial markets remained closed in the metropolis with smaller shops remaining open

The strike call by the traders’ association was extended support by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

Speaking to the media KCCI Presi-

Cour t puts off PTI chief’s bail plea in cypher case until Monday

The Special Court Islamabad on Saturday adjourned till September 4 (Monday) hearing on the PTI chairman s bail application in the cypher case was Special Court Judge of the court established under Special Secrets Act Abul Hasnaat Zulqarnain presided over the proceedings Babar Awan and Salman Safdar the lawyers of PTI chairman advanced arguments on the bail application Salman Safdar said the lawyers of PTI chairman should not be obstructed in Attock Jail

The PTI chairman’s legal team requested the court to hear the arguments on the bail plea today (Saturday) but the FIA’s special prosecutor opposed PTI lawyers’ request The special prosecutor objected to applications filed by the PTI s legal team in the Islamabad High Court and requested to adjourn the hearing on the bail application During the hearing, the FIA prosecutor said PTI chief had filed petitions related to the case in the IHC At which the former prime minister ’s lawyer Intizar Panjotha said they were ready to withdraw the petitions from the high court He informed the court that the high court had not issued any stay on the bail application After hearing arguments of both parties, the special court judge adjourned the hearing on PTI chairman’s bail application till September 4 (Monday)

During the hearing Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s lawyer Ali Bukhari also appeared in the court and said that he would like to present arguments on his client s bail application today However the court did not allow him to put forward arguments

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

Rain played spoilsport dampening the high hopes of fans to see a thriller between Pakistan and India in the much anticipated Asia

Cup 2023 match on Saturday

However, Green shirts qualified for Super 4s despite not having to bat as their run chase was called off due to persistent showers after a successful day in the field

Rain returned for the third time to Kandy during the innings break at the Pallekele Cricket Stadium

Before that, during the Indian innings, much to the disappointment of cricket fans rain played spoilsport twice

The Men in Blue had handed a 267-run target to Pakistan after they opted to bat first at the toss However, the Indian team was dismissed for 266 as the bowlers brought the national side back into the game

dent Mohammad Tariq Yousuf clarified that large-scale industries were not part of the strike while expressing verbal support for small traders and wholesalers to ensure its success

Nevertheless KCCI itself remained closed suspending the issuance of certificates to exporters and the processing of visa documents for businessmen for one day It was learnt that this impacted export consignments and shipments at the ports He expressed hope that the incumbent government would find a viable solution to emerge out of the crisis and said that a meeting would be held in a

Similarly Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Irfan Iqbal Sheikh has said that the government is failing to read the writing on the wall By increasing petrol prices once again the interim set up is inviting a fresh wave of inflation he said adding that it is most worrisome that the petroleum levy has been raised to Rs60 per litre Out-of-box thinking is required to emerge out of the economic crisis,” he said

The caretaker premier has on his part denied that the sudden increase in electricity bills is a concern and termed it a non-issue while asserting that consumers have to pay the bills , reported several media outlets

Meanwhile, the Punjab Bar Council along with district and tehsil bar associations also protested against rising inflation by boycotting proceedings in lower courts Lawyers also called for the arrest of those responsible for opening fire at the house of a local lawyer Nazia Nawaz

The people staged protest demonstration on National Highway in Karachi and all the shops and restaurants remained closed The Red Bus Service also remained suspended in Karachi In Jhang, there was complete shutter down observed by the traders against the inflation and electricity overbilling

Amid souring sectarian tension, GB gov t mulls calling in army to maintain peace

GILGIT

The Gilgit-Baltistan government has decided to call in the army to ensure peace in the region and maintain the law and order situation it emerged on Saturday

The decision was arrived at during a meeting of the Parliamentary Peace Committee the apex body headed by the chief minister that decides on matters related to law and order held yesterday

The authorities also decided to deploy personnel of Rangers GB scouts and Frontier Corps in big cities across the region

However state-run APP later quoted a GB Home Department statement as saying that the situation in Gilgit Baltistan is completely peaceful and the news and speculations circulating in the media regarding the deployment of the Pakistan Army are baseless”

The services of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces have been procured to maintain peace and order at Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain the clarification cited by APP said, adding that special measures were taken for the security of the procession routes and Imambargahs, as practiced in the past

The developments come after panic and unrest spread in the region following protests in Diamer s Chilas

The protesters blocked the Karakoram Highway and the Babusar Pass road for three days demanding the arrest of a religious leader from Skardu for allegedly passing controversial remarks

Protest demonstrations were also held in Astore, Gilgit however they were called off after the registration of a first information report against religious leader Agha Baqir Al-Hussaini

In reaction to it a markets and transport strike was observed in Skardu with protesters also blocking main roads, including the Juglot-Skardu road

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Islamabad on Saturday granted post-arrest bail to the human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari in the Terrorism Funding Case while the IHC barred authorities from arresting the human rights lawyerin any new cases

According to details, the Anti-Terrorism Court heard the bail application of Imaan Mazari the daughter of former minister Shireen Mazari Judge Abual Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain, presided over the hearing and passed the decision on Imaan Mazari’s bail application granting her bail in the Terrorism Funding Case

The development comes a day after the ATC sent her to jail on judicial remand and issued directives to keep her in a women’s police station in the capital city until her bail hearing

On August 20 Imaan Mazari and former lawmaker Ali Wazir were arrested for alleged sedition, two days after a Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) public meeting in Islamabad Videos circulating on social media showed speakers criticizing the military establishment over enforced disappearances

They had been booked in two separate cases for alleged sedition by the Counter-Terrorism Department police and “rioting” by the Tarnol police

The next day on Aug 21 an Islamabad ATC had granted police

At the start of the innings star seamers of Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, ripped through the Indian top-order after Rohit Sharma decided to bat first However Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya keep the scorecard ticking for their side

After Pakistani pacers dismissed four key batters early the Indian middle-order fought back and managed to score above 130 by the 27th over However, the Pakistan pacers struck again and gave three consecutive blows to the Men in Green in the latter part of the innings The lethal bowling spell brought the team back into the game at a crucial point Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf each picked three wickets, while the last two dismissals Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav came off Naseem Shah’s bowling

a three-day physical remand of her and Wazir in the sedition case

The court has directed Imaan Mazari to submit a Rs 10 000 surety bond the case against Imaan Mazari pertains to alleged financial assistance to terrorists, and has been registered at the Bhara Kahu police station

NEW CASES: Earlier in the day the IHC barred authorities from arresting the human rights lawyer –Imaan Mazari – in any new cases

A single member IHC bench comprising Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb issued a

pointment over the washed out match blaming the BCCI for the lost game How disappointing! Rain mars the greatest contest in cricket But this was forecast As PCB Chair I urged the ACC to play in UAE but poor excuses were made to accommodate Sri Lanka Too hot in Dubai they said But it was as hot when the Asia Cup was played there last time in Sep 2022 or when IPL was played there in April 2014 and Sep 2020 Politics over sport Unforgivable! ” he wrote

Despite the draw Pakistan have qualified for the Super 4s stage as Pakistan began their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on a high note with a massive 238-run win over Nepal on Wednesday Meanwhile, this was India s first match in the tournament making the clash with Nepal a must win Considering the format of the Asia Cup it is likely that we may see another between Pakistan and India soon

Subsequently, the GB government had decided to deploy the Karakoram Task Force and police personnel on the KKH Juglot-Skardu Road and Babusar Top to ensure the safety of passengers and the movement of vehicles

Yesterday, a meeting of the Parliamentary Peace Committee was held in Gilgit to discuss the law and order situation in the region It was presided over by GB Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan and attended by a number of ministers the GB chief secretary the home secretary the police chief and members of intelligence agencies

According to a handout issued by the GB Information Department, it was decided in the meeting that legal action would be taken against those who insult the beliefs and holy personalities of any religion in public meetings “It was decided in the meeting that the army will be called in in light of the overall situation of the region and for maintaining peace Besides this Rangers GB Scouts and FC personnel will be posted in the big cities The government will take all measures to maintain law and order and continue tourism activities in any situation In this regard the Gilgit-Baltistan Home Department has immediately imposed Section 144 on illegal gatherings and blocking roads it stated adding that strict action would be taken against violators

The government has also urged the citizens to cooperate with the administration by displaying unity and harmony” “We believe that people will reject miscreants who are trying to create an atmosphere against brotherhood and peace in the region ” the press release said adding that law enforcement agencies were determined to give a befitting response to such elements It added that the GB government was keeping a close watch on those who propagate hatred through social media and other means”

Meanwhile, the Special Communications Organisation (SCOM) a public-sector organisation working under the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication to develop operate and maintain telecom services in Azad Jammu Kashmir and GilgitBaltistan said mobile internet services in GB have been stopped and downgraded to 2G It said that decision was taken on orders of the government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority

g

I M R A N W I L L I N G T O TA L K T O A L L ‘ B U T J U S T

O N E L E C T I O N S ’ : L AW Y E R S

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

Three of incarcerated PTI chief Imran Khan’s lawyers said after meeting him in jail on Saturday that he was willing to talk to all but only on elections

Finally met Khan sahib at Attock jail with other colleagues Thank God, he is in great spirit but is concerned about the ongoing uncertainty, inflation, and terrorism He is willing to talk to all BUT about the election ” his lawyer Barrister Gohar Khan posted on X Similarly lawyer Nadeem Haider Panjutha posted: Khan sahib dismissed all

Man kills son over domestic dispute

ATTOCK

I N p

fake news about him seeking pardon worrying and wanting to leave the country He said I will live and die in Pakistan He also said we are willing to talk to all but just on elections ” M e a n w h i l e , a n o t h e r o f I m r a n ’s l a w y e r s I n t a z a r H u s s a i n P a n j u t h a s a i d : Khan sahib said today that he will talk to a n y p o l i t i c a l p a r t y o r i n s t i t u t i o n o n t h e matter of holding elections

Early elections had been a key demand of the PTI since Imran s prime ministerial term ended prematurely following a noconfidence motion in April last year After his ouster from the top office the ex-premier launched an aggressive campaign under the

A man has shot dead his son over domestic dispute in Kachha more area near Burhan interchange in the limits of Hassanabdal Police station on Saturday, police and hospital sources said Quoting the family of the victim, police said that Usman Shah was trashing his mother over some domestic dispute in his house When his father Shabbir Shah entered the house he saw his wife in distress and took out his pistol and fired multiple bullets on his son As a result, his son died on the spot Shabbir managed to escape from the scene successfully after killing his son On getting information, police reached at the spot and shifted the body to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital for autopsy Police registered the case and launched further investigation

Rescue, relief activities continue in flood-hit areas along Sutlej

LAHORE

S ta f f R e p o R t

Rescue and relief activities continue in the flood hit areas along the Sutlej River in District Bahawalpur and Bahawalnagar The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said on Saturday that there was medium level flood at Empress Bridge According to the Spokesman of District Administration Bahawalpur, 27 flood relief camps have been established in District Bahawalpur to provide relief to the flood affectees Similarly, Pakistan Army with the help of District Administration Rescue 1122 and other institutions is carrying out rescue and relief activities in the flood hit areas of Bahawalnagar

Minchan Abad Chishtian Head Sulemanki

Mailsi, Pakpattan, Arfiwala and Burewala to evacuate flood affectees and their animals Pakistan Army has established free medical camps to provide treatment to the flood affectees and ration and free medicines are also being provided to them

Sindh, federal gov ts making collective effor ts to resolve issues of masses: CM

KARACHI I N p

Sindh Caretaker Chief Minister Sindh Justice

Retired Maqbool Baqir has said that the provincial and federal governments are closely scrutinizing the issues faced by the people In a statement issued here on Saturday, he said that the Sindh and federal governments are making collective efforts for resolutions of the problems faced by the countrymen Maqbool Baqir said that all out efforts were being made at provincial and federal level to provide maximum relief to the masses He said that the caretaker governments can t be blamed for the prevailing situation It was committed to mend the situation but it will be take time to return to routine, he added

slogan of Haqeeqi Azadi calling for elections and blaming the incumbent government and army leadership for his ouster imultaneously, Imran also invited the then-Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government multiple times for talks on elections but negotiations that eventually began in April between his party and the coalition in power at the time remained unsuccessful During a recent interaction with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) officials PTI leaders stressed that elections should be held within the constitutionally mandated period of 90 days by November

9 following the dissolution of the National Assembly on August 9 as mandated under Article 224 of the Constitution

The ECP, however, has ruled out elections this year, citing the notification of results of the new digital 2023 census and Section 17(2) of the Elections Act which states: The commission shall delimit constituencies after every census is officially published But the PTI s stance was that there was no need for delimitation at this time M e a n w h i l e , I m r a n r e m a i n s i m p r i s o n e d a t A t t o c k j a i l a n d c o n t i n u e s t o f a c e s e v e r a l c a s e s An Islamabad trial court on August 5

sentenced Imran to three years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs100,000 on him while hearing the ECP s criminal complaint against the PTI chief for concealing details of Toshakhana gifts The court found him guilty of “corrupt practices by hiding the benefits he accrued from the national exchequer wilfully and intentionally I m r a n w a s s u b s e q u e n t l y a r r e s t e d b y P u n j a b p o l i c e f r o m h i s Z a m a n P a r k r e s i d e n c e i n L a h o r e a n d m o v e d t o A t t a o c k j a i l However the Islamabad High Court suspended his sentence earlier this week But the PTI chief remains in jail in the cipher case, which pertains to a diplomatic d o c u m e n t t h a t r e p o r t e d l y w e n t m i s s i n g from Imran’s possession The PTI alleges that it contained a threat from the United S t a t e s t o o u s t I m r a n f r o m p o w e r P r o c e e d i n g s a g a i n s t P T I Vi c e C h a i r m a n a n d f o r m e r f o r e i g n m i n i s t e r S h a h M a h m o o d Q u r e s h i i n t h e s a m e c a s e a r e also under way

Influx of foreign tourists dropped, domestic rises in KP during current year

PESHAWAR S ta f f R e p o R t

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) received a total of 2,546 foreign and 9,704,325 domestic tourists from January 1 to August 28, 2023

A c c o r d i n g t o d a t a c o m p i l e d b y t h e p o l i c e l e v i e s o ff i c i a l s a n d t h e d i s t r i c t a d m i n i s t r a t i o n t h i s i s a n i n c r e a s e o f 9 7% in the number of domestic tourists f r o m l a s t y e a r, w h e n 8 , 8 5 9 , 5 3 6 d o m e s t i c t o u r i s t s v i s i t e d t h e p r o v i n c e H o w e v e r, t h e n u m b e r o f f o r e i g n t o u r i s t s d e c r e a s e d b y 1 3 4 % f r o m l a s t y e a r ’s 2 9 4 7

The decline in foreign tourists is likely due to the global financial crunch

However, the increase in domestic tourists is a positive sign for the tourism industry in KP The most popular tourist destinations

Five Daesh women held: C TD kills eight terrorists in Balochistan, Khyber

WASHUK/LAHORE S ta f f R e p o R t

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed five terrorists in Balochistan and three terrorists were killed in Khyber area near Torkham border while five alleged women members of Daesh were arrested in Punjab

According to CTD officials, the force killed five terrorists during a raid on a house in Basima area of district Washuk in Balochistan

According to the spokesperson the CounterTerrorism Department raided a house last night following a tip-off about the presence of some terrorists in the house

As soon as the CTD police surrounded the house, the terrorists opened fire on them The CTD officials also retaliated and a shootout ensued As a result, five militants were killed during the exchange of fire between them and the law personnel However three miscreants managed to flee under the cover of darkness

The spokesperson said that the CTD recovered a huge quantity of arms from the house They recovered submachine guns (SMGs), a suicide jacket, hand grenades, five rounds, magazines, and other articles like sleeping bags

The CTD with the help of local police have launched a combing operation in the area for the runaway militants

THREE TERROR SUSPECTS

KILLED IN KHYBER

In Khyber district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Peshawar Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) killed three terrorists in Torkham area near border

According to the CTD officials the operation was carried out following information extorted from the in custody terrorists As the CTD officials reached the spot the terrorists holed up in the area opened fire killing their two arrested accomplices

The law enforcers, however, retaliated in a benefiting manner killing one of the terrorists belonging to a banned organization near Torkham Border in Khyber district

A day earlier a terrorist was killed and an Havildar of Pakistan Army embraced martyrdom in a fire exchange in general area Tirah, Khyber District

In a statement the ISPR said that own troops effectively engaged the terrorists location resulting in killing of one terrorist The killed terrorist remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against security forces and killing of innocent civilians, the ISPR said

However during intense exchange of fire Havildar Muntazir Shah (age 36 Years Resident of Sawabi District) having fought gallantly embraced shahadat

Similarly, two brave sons of the nation including a Major and a Sepoy were martyred during an intelligencebased operation against terrorists in Miranshah, North Waziristan district

According to the ISPR a party of terrorists was spotted and intercepted by Major Amir Aziz who was leading the operation from the front

Resultantly one terrorist was sent to hell while another was injured

However, as a result of the heavy exchange of fire, two brave sons of the land, Major Amir Aziz (29) and Sepoy Muhammad Arif (27) embraced Shahadat while fighting gallantly FIVE DAESH WOMEN TERRORISTS ARRESTED

Meanwhile, the Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) claimed to have arrested five women suspects, belonging to a militant group, Islamic State (IS) or Daesh, during intelligence-based operations conducted in different cities of the province

According to the CTD spokesman in view of possible acts of terror the department carried out operations and arrested three women from Lahore and two from Sheikhupura

The spokesman said banned literature, cellphones, weapons and cash were recovered from the arrested women identified as: Fakhira Saadia Aiman Javeria and Faiza He explained that cases have been registered against them and further investigation is underway

Sharing further details the spokesman informed that the CTD had arrested 76 suspected persons in 308 combing operations conducted across the province during the ongoing week “In all, 15,225 people were questioned,” he said, adding, “The CTD is striving to achieve the target of ‘Safe Punjab’ and it is committed to eradicating terrorism

in KP are: Galiyat, Dir Upper, Malam Jabba, Chitral, Upper and Lower, and Kaghan and Naran T h e p r o v i n c i a l g o v e r n m e n t h a s t a k e n s e v e r a l m e a s u r e s t o i m p r o v e t h e s e c u r i t y a n d f a c i l i t i e s f o r t o u r i s t s i n c l u d i n g t h e l a u n c h o f a s p e c i a l b u s service for tourists C a r e t a k e r M i n i s t e r f o r To u r i s m B a r r i s t e r F e r o z J a m a l S h a h s a i d t h a t special measures are being taken for the s e c u r i t y o f d o m e s t i c a n d f o r e i g n t o u r i s t s H e s a i d t h a t a s p e c i a l b u s s e r v i c e h a s a l s o b e e n s t a r t e d f o r t h e convenience of tourists initially started for Khanpur Dam, Takhtbhai Ruins, and Peshawar “There is a plan to extend the b u s s e r v i c e t o m o r e t o u r i s t s p o t s ” h e i n f o r m e d a n d a d d e d t h e g o v e r n m e n t i s c o m m i t t e d t o p r o m o t i n g t o u r i s m i n K P a n d p r o v i d i n g a s a f e a n d s e c u r e environment for tourists

Punjab Highway Police arrests 482 POs in August

FAISALABAD

I N p

The Punjab Highway Patrol arrested 482 proclaimed offenders (POs) and 338 court absconders in addition to issuing challan tickets to 356,762 drivers over violation of the traffic rules during August 2023 Giving details here on Saturday PHP spokesman Sub-Inspector Shahid Nadeem said that patrolling police checked 1 792 414 people and 1 000 438 vehicles on highways and main roads of the province through e-police post app during the last one month During this period, the PHP jawans succeeded in arresting 12 POs of category-A and 445 of category-B besides nabbing 97 illicit weapon-holders

They also recovered 72 pistols 22 rifles and 3 Kalashnikovs from the accused The police also impounded 310 stolen vehicles including 7 cars 290 motorcycles and 13 other vehicles The patrolling police arrested drug-pushers along with 1,446 litres of liquor, 32 145-kg cannabis (charas) and 485-gram heroin in addition to removing 453 encroachments from different sites on highways and main roads The PHP jawans also reunited 77 missing children with their parents and family members besides providing first aid to 175 travelers injured in road accidents besides helping 5413 commuters in the time of need during this period, he added

While addressing a seminar organized by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Jamaat-e-Islami to mark the second martyrdom anniversary of veteran APHC leader and icon

u n p r e c e d e n t e d s t r u g g l e a n d s p i r i t o f r e s i s t a n c e w i l l c o n t i n u e t o i n s p i r e t h e c o m i n g g e n e r a t i o n s o f

Kashmiris

e e d Tu r a b i s a i d Syed Ali Gilani fought throughout his

to free the Kashmiri

f r o m I n d i a n s u b j u g a t i o n a n d h i s

They said that Syed Ali Gilani who entered the politics of Kashmir i n t h e 1 9 5 0 s w a g e d a p e a c e f u l p o l i t i c a l s t r u g g l e f o r 3 7 y e a r s f o r t h e s e t t l e m e n t o f t h e K a s h m i r dispute, but ultimately he realized t h a t I n d i a t h e c l a i m a n t o f t h e world’s largest democracy will not g r a n t t h e K a s h m i r i s t h e i r i n a l i e n a b l e r i g h t t o s e l fd e t e r m i n a t i o n t h r o u g h d e m o c r a t i c means

sufferings Syed Ali Gilani demonstrated unprecedented determination and courage and never compromised on his principled stand, the speakers said He was a true Pakistani who believed in attaching the political destiny of Kashmiris with Pakistan as per the two Nation Theory and he remained committed to this ideology till the last breath of his life they asserted The speakers said that Syed Ali Gilani coined the slogan We are Pakistanis and Pakistan is ours under the bayonets of the Indian army proving that he was a true Pakistani They maintained that the success of the freedom movement remained the sole objective of Syed Ali Gilani s life-long struggle despite spending a large part of his life in jails and concentration cells where he was subjected to physical and mental torture Despite all cruelties and tyranny he never compromised on the demand for self-determination for his enslaved people, they added

S peakers laud Syed Ali Gilani as real hero of K ashmir freedom movement

C M R E V I E W S H A Z R AT D ATA G U N J B A KS H U R S A R R A N G E M E N T S

LAHORE

PUNJAB Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi presided over a meeting at CM Office on Saturday to review urs arrangements of Hazrat Data Gunj Baksh (RA)

The 3-day urs celebrations of Hazrat Data Ganj Baksh would start from Sept 5 in which more than one million devotees would participate Mehfil-e-Sama, Sabeel, Natia Mushaira, and special lectures would be arranged during the urs celebrations

The CM ordered that the urs arrangements during the current year should be made even more splendid than the previous years

He directed to install sound system and SMD screens for the devotees He directed to make an extensive sitting arrangements in the Langar Khana, saying that the chalked out security and traffic plan should be ensured to be implemented in letter and spirit adding that the law enforcement agencies should maintain a close coordination with one another Secretary Auqaf gave a briefing about arrangements being made in connection with

the Urs and CCPO Lahore gave a briefing about the security plan It was apprised during the briefing that police personnel would perform their duties in three shifts during Urs celebrations and incharge of every shift would be of SP rank Provincial Auqaf Minister Azfar Ali Nasir, Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary(Home) Additional IG Special Branch CCPO Lahore Secretary Auqaf Commissioner Lahore division DIG Operations Deputy Commissioner Lahore CTO Lahore, Chief Executive Officer Waste Management Company and officials concerned attended the meeting

IPP welcomes ECP decision to reduce time period for delimitation

LAHORE A P P

The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party(IPP) has welcomed the decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to reduce the time period for delimitation and give new plan for announcement of new election schedule as soon as possible and expressed satisfaction over this step

It has been further hoped that in the future, the Election Commission will also take decisions in consultation with the political parties and find the best solution President Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party Abdul Aleem Khan in his statement has appreciated the mutual consultation of Election Commission held with political

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

The details showed that all the petrol pumps and shops remained closed in Thattha The District Bar of Narowal also observed strike as lawyers boycotted the court proceedings

The shutter-down was also observed in Taunsa and Jaccobabad while traders and workers of Jamaat-e-Islami staged protests in Karak against inflation

‘Most successful shutter-down strike in Malakand division

In Swat the most successful shutter-down strike in history was observed in Malakand division and all commercial and business centers remained closed All Private educational institutes marbles industries and other industries also remained closed while the lawyers of the District Bar Association boycotted the court to take part in the strike while Jamaat-e-Islami took out protests against brutal electricity bills and inflation in all district and tehsil headquarters including Swat across Malakand Division

On the call of Abdul Rahim President of Malakand Division Traders Federation, all business communities, commercial centers, markets and shops remained closed in all nine districts of Malakand Division – Swat, Buner, Shangla Upper Dir Lower Dir Upper Chitral Lower Chitral Malakand and Bajaur while private educational institutions marble industries and all industries and factories were also closed The traffic in the entire division, including Swat, was less than normal and the roads wore a deserted look

Speaking to the media on the occasion Abdul Rahim President Malakand Division Traders Federation said that the poor people are worried and the traders communities have been almost crushed by the ever-increasing inflation He said that along with electricity and gas bills hike in petroleum products has made the people a victim of economic hardships

We are not ready to tolerate these a t r o c i t i e s a n y l o n g e r a n d t h e r e i s a feeling of anger in the whole nation and I fear that the people may be forced to revolt he added ” he said “In the initial phase we have only observed shutterd o w n s t r i k e b u t i f t h e r u l e r s d o n o t c o m e t o t h e i r s e n s e s a n d f a i l t o g i v e r e l i e f t o t h e p e o p l e , t h e n w e w i l l b e f o r c e d t o s t a r t a c i v i l - d i s o b e d i e n c e

Four suspects arrested in Kohat search operation

KOHAT A P P

Four suspects were arrested in a search and strike operation conducted on Saturday in the Jangal Khel area Kohat According to police officials a dedicated police force was deployed to carry out the operation under the command of DSP Headquarters

Muhammad Nawab Khan and SHO Jangal Khel Ruman Khan along with a police force Police confirmed that the search operation yield tangible results with weapons being seized from those arrested Notable among the seized items were 1 Kalashnikov, 2 pistols, 8 chargers and hundreds of cartridges The arrested accused is Ahsan Khan, Nasrullah Khan, Asim and Mehmood residents of Jangal Khel Following protocol all arrested individuals have been transported to the Jungle Khel police station for further investigation and case registered at there

parties and called it a good omen He said that the continuation of the democratic process in the country is necessary and his Party will support the holding of general elections as soon as possible P r e s i d e n t I P P f u r t h e r s a i d t h a t t h e r e i s n o d o u b t t h a t t h e a m b i g u i t i e s r e l a t e d t o t h e g e n e r a l e l e c t i o n s should have been removed for the better future of the c o u n t r y a n d t h e s t a b i l i t y o f t h e e c o n o m y a n d t h e r e c e n t d e c i s i o n s o f t h e E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n w i l l certainly help in this regard Abdul Aleem Khan said t h a t I s t e h k a m - e - P a k i s t a n P a r t y w i l l t a k e p a r t i n t h e general elections on the basis of its manifesto and will f i e l d s t r o n g c a n d i d a t e s f r o m e a c h c o n s t i t u e n c y t o attain full success He said that the upcoming elections

movement he said

He further said that the job of caretaker government is only to conduct elections But unfortunately, the present caretaker government has taken the contract to bury the people alive by taking the agenda of the IMF

JI RALLIES ACROSS

SWAT REGION

Meanwhile Jamaat-e-Islami held protests against uncontrolled inflation and continuous increase in prices of electricity, gas and petroleum products in the various parts of Swat district

The biggest protest demonstration was held at Nishat Chowk in Mingora city while workers in all tehsil headquarters and big cities also took to the streets, shouting slogans against inflation and unprecedented hike in electricity tariff

Addressing the protests Jamaat-eIslami leaders including Akhtar Ali Khan said that the country has been left at the mercy of the IMF They said the rulers were enjoying themselves while the entire burden is being put on the people But we are not ready to bear this burden anymore This is the reason why the entire nation is protesting and if the rulers do not give relief then the people will be forced into civil disobedience

SINDH CM URGES CALM

Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister, retired Justice Maqbool Baqar, acknowledged the challenges faced by the citizens and affirmed that staging a protest was a fundamental democratic right In a statement the chief minister noted that those participating in the protest should also be mindful of not causing inconvenience to fellow citizens He further pointed out that both the federal and provincial governments were actively working to alleviate the burden of the public

All Pakistan Traders Community s poster is hung on a pole along a street in Peshawar on September 2 during a nationwide strike by traders against the surge in electricity and fuel prices

AFP The authorities should also take proactive measures to maintain a peaceful atmosphere during the protest stated the provincial chief executive

In a separate statement, Karachi s Deputy Mayor, Salman Abdullah Murad, affirmed that the right to protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy However he highlighted that any act

Pakistan Nav y flotila visits Iraq during overseas deployment

w i l l b e o n s t r e n g t h e n i n g t h e e c o n o m y r e d u c i n g i n f l a t i o n a n d s o l v i n g t h e p r o b l e m s f a c e d b y t h e common man and the his Party will present the best strategy for this purpose

President

Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party Abdul Aleem Khan also expressed the expectation that all political parties will play a responsible role and the country s p o l i t i c s w i l l b e c a r r i e d f o r w a r d i n a p o s i t i v e a n d polite manner He offered his all possible support to t h e E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n o f P a k i s t a n a n d o t h e r n a t i o n a l i n s t i t u t i o n s o n b e h a l f o f h i s P a r t y s o t h a t practical steps can be taken to get the country out of t h e c u r r e n t s i t u a t i o n a n d a s s u r e s m o o t h f u n c t i o n i n g of national affairs

resulting in harm to public property during such protests would not be tolerated

He issued a stern warning, stating, “Law enforcement agencies will take decisive action against those who engage in anarchic behavior ”

Furthermore the deputy mayor called upon the police to prioritise the safety of both the public and their property MIXED REACTION IN PESHAWAR

Despite business closures in various parts of KP the response in Peshawar appeared to be mixed While some shops remained closed others chose to keep their businesses open

A correspondent from Dawn com during a visit at Peshawar s Ashraf Road, noted that over half of the market was operational, with only a handful of shops closed It’s worth mentioning that this area serves as a central market drawing a substantial daily footfall CLOSURE OF BUSINESS IN BATTAGRAM

Meanwhile, the main market along the Karakoram Highway in KP’s Battagram wore a deserted look as it remained shut in response to the call by the JI

Speaking to Dawn com local JI leader Anwar Baig stressed the need to set aside political affiliations and unite in these challenging times N a i m a t u l l a h K h a k s a r, a l o c a l t r a d e r h i g h l i g h t e d t h a t n u m e r o u s t r a d e r s h a d s u ff e r e d s i g n i f i c a n t l o s s e s due to inflation Each morning brought n e w t a x e s a n d f l u c t u a t i n g r a t e s l e a v i n g t h e m i n a s t a t e o f c o n f u s i o n r e g a r d i n g t h e v i a b i l i t y o f t h e i r b u s i n e s s e s , h e a d d e d He emphasised the urgency for the government to implement corrective measures to bolster the economy The continuous depreciation of the Pakistani currency against the dollar had eroded the purchasing power of traders, causing local consumers to bear the brunt of inflation ”

JI ORGANISES RALLIES IN PUNJAB

According to the visuals shared by the JI on its account on X (formerly Twitter), traders in various cities of Punjab also observed a shutter-down strike Rows of shops can be seen shut in the pictures shared by the party from Punjab’s Jhang and Sialkot districts while those from the Nankana Sahib district

show JI supporters carrying party flags gathered on the streets to protest against the power bills

The JI said its district emir Hafiz Habib Zia addressed the protestors in the Panwan village Similar scenes can be witnessed in the pictures shared by the JI of Bahawalpur where the party s city emir Syed Zeeshan Akhtar was leading a rally it said Meanwhile, Babar Mahmood, president of the Electronics Market Traders Union in Lahore said the bills received this month “exceed our earnings

There is a growing disconnect between the general public and those in positions of power, he added On the other hand, Lahore’s Township Traders Union president Ajmal Hashmi told AFP that “everyone is participating because the situation has become unbearable now adding that some relief must be given so people can put food on the table ‘PM’S STATEMENT MISREPORTED’

Later at night interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi claimed in a video statement that PM Kakar s statement on exorbitant electricity bills being a non-issue was misreported

The video also showed a clip of the PM from the interaction, where a journalist asked him about high electricity prices being a “serious issue of law and order

In his reply PM Kakar said: Let me assure you that it is not that it is a very serious issue of law and order But it is an issue indeed, which is certainly being magnified

“We also understand that all political parties are in election mode at present all those who have contributed to [this problem] have turned this into an issue and trying to take this forward as a social cause

“We understand this If I had to contest the election, I might have done the same ” Referring to this response Solangi said PM Kakar had denied that the issue of high electricity bills had lead to anarchy

But he did not say that the problem of electricity bills was a non-issue,” he insisted adding that the PM “did not say at any point that the pain of the people was unfair

ISLAMABAD P R

Pakistan Navy Flotilla comprising PN Ships HIMMAT DEHSHAT and MUHAFIZ visited Port Umm Qasr Iraq during Overseas Deployment to Gulf countries Upon arrival at the port, PN Ships were received by Commander of Umm Qasr Naval Base Rear Admiral Laith Abdal Satar senior Iraqi Navy officials and Defence Attaché of Pakistan at Iraq The Mission Commander along with Commanding Officers of ships called on Commander Iraqi Navy Rear Admiral Mazin Abdul Wahid and senior naval leadership of host Navy During the interactions, matters of mutual interest were discussed and enhancements of bilateral ties in all spheres were reaffirmed Mission Commander conveyed well wishes from Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi for the people of Iraq in general and Iraqi navy in particular A reception dinner was also hosted onboard PNS MUHAFIZ which was hosted by Ambassador of Pakistan to Iraq Officials of Iraqi Navy and notables from Pakistani community attended the reception During port call various bilateral activities including exchange visits onboard ships orientation visit of PN personnel to military installations and coordination meetings for exercises at sea were undertaken Upon completion of port visit, PN ships participated in sea exercise with Iraqi Navy Ship to enhance interoperability

GIZ Pakistan implements social, behaviour change communication campaign on ergonomics

PR

Saeed Ahmed Awan Center for Improvement of Working Conditions and Environment (SAACIWCE) with support of GIZ Pakistan implemented a social and behaviour change communication campaign on ergonomics and heat stress to promote the health and safety culture in textile industry of Pakistan The targeted campaign included stakeholders of Ministry of Commerce Government of Pakistan, Labour and Human Resource Department Government of Punjab and other notable public and private organizations that are working to support improving health and safety standards at textile industry of Pakistan The Textile sector in Pakistan stands as a backbone of the nation's economy channeling in billions of dollars through exports and providing livelihoods to a vast workforce Elevating labor standards within this pivotal sector holds the key not only to bolstering productivity and economic growth but also to enhancing the overall well-being of countless individuals aligning perfectly with the core national and economic priorities of the country An event was organized that gathered stakeholders from government, textile, industry, donor community, NGO and private sector to express their commitment for improving occupational health and safety standards in the textile sector of Pakistan particularly in the areas of heat stress and ergonomics both of which are extremely relevant to the sector and the country Ergonomics and heat stress van both cause health issues disabilities and in extreme cases the life of workers given the prevention steps are not followed

Poets, scholars, researchers for digitalization of Shah Abdul Latif ’s poetr y

HYDERABAD

On the second day of the 280th

Urs of the great sufi saint and poet

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai a literary (Adabi) conference was organized by the culture department Sindh, in which poets, scholars and researchers demanded for the digitalization of Shah Sain's poetry enabling his message to reach a global audience They also insisted the need to present Shah Jo Kalam in text, audio and video formats, as they said his message provides solutions of difficulties and challenges confronting humanity in modern era intellectuals highlighted that Bhittai s thoughts still hold immense significance in today's world, just as they did

three centuries ago

During his keynote speech at the Literary Conference Federal Minister of education, Researcher and Scholar Madad Ali Sindh expressed his concern that the young generation is not as familiar with Shah Latif Baba Bulleh Shah Baba Farid and other great poets philosophies and thoughts He stressed the importance of introducing the youth to the rich literary heritage of these poets Sindh Culture Minister Syed Junaid Ali Shah speaking at the conference called for the utilization of modern means of communication such as online portals and web TV series, to spread Shah Latif's message globally similar to countries like Turkey The Bhittaipedia portal is a significant effort and it is

hoped that it will effectively spread a message of peace worldwide , he added The provincial minister suggested incorporating Shah Latif's teachings into the national syllabus and ensuring their dissemination to the masses Madad Ali Sindh he said could play a significant role in this regard at the national level Renowned writer Taj Joyo said that Mirza Qalich Beg and Dr Nabi Bakhsh Baloch had written complete dictionaries of Shah but more research was required on it Dr Adal Soomro in his paper said Shah's message is and will remain the message of every age:”

Prominent researchers including Dr Azhar Shah Mukhtiar Abro Shaukat Ali Ujan Hubbdar Jagirani Altaf Memon and others

also presented their papers Director General culture Munawar Ali Mahesar delivered the welcome address, while secretary culture Abdul Aleem Lashari delivered the concluding remarks, while reknown singers Barkat Faqir and Fakir Imtiaz Ali Sang performed in the program On this occasion the pioneer of sindhi computing Abdul Majid Bhurguri, launched the online Bhittaipedia, he highlighted the importance of using technology to

ensure that the younger generation engages with Shah s message He said the online Bhittaipedia offers texts in urdu, punjabi, persian and english along with various translations and added that Shah Sain s message was translated into 130 languages by using artificial intelligence and link of Bhittaipedia had been shared on literary websites in China Russia and France which was a remarkable achievement in promoting Sindhi literature worldwide

ve d

g a

n

THE Election Commission of Pakistan has left the nation confused about when it can hold elections

In the latest of its series of meetings with political parties, it said that now it would complete delimitations by November 30 rather than December 15 as it earlier announced Does that mean it could complete delimitations even earlier? If so, why doesn’t, and hold elections within the constitutionally prescribed time limit of 90 days The ECP is a constitutional institution and is supposed to be independent of any interference It should not have to push back the date of elections (even though the new date means it will still disregard the constitutional limit) to suit anyone s convenience, or push them forward It should act as it can, according to the law and constitution

The pity of the matter is that at present the ECP does not face any real pressure because any deadline is pressing At the moment it can not only meet the 90-day time-limit, but can deliver elections earlier, because the Election Law allows it to issue an election programme covering 60 days (this was provided to meet situations where assemblies are not dissolved prematurely), though that will change by September 12 when it will become impossible for the ECP to meet the requirements of both the Election Law cand the Constitution It is something of a pity that the ECP, which is responsible for the key task of holding elections, which is in turn key to the functioning of the Constitution, is not performing its duties independently This has meant that the entire constitutional scheme has been turned topsy turvy, that the country has been stuck with a crisis with only caretakers running the show

It is rightly said to be careful what you wish for; the putting off of elections has been followed by a major public crisis which has made control on power fruitless even if it were to be maintained Therefore it seems only reasonable for the ECP to leave aside delimitations, on which there is no time limit, and obey the constitutional provision on which there is the holding of elections It would allow a handover of the crisis to a government that could handle the crisis The caretakers clearly cannot Caretaker PM Anwarul Haq Kakar s saying that there was no crisis shows the caretakers in denial, which will not help solve anything

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

CPEC and China-Pakistan relationships perfectly represent the idea of unity in diversity and diversity in unity China is a multiethnic society representing “unity in diversity” taking into account the social structures the interaction between ethnicities unifying the diverse cultural and communal networks inculcating the unity across the country would not have been an easy task China is well-versed in accommodating and negotiating to develop harmony and consensus on different issues including economic and development projects Pakistan is also a nation of diverse ethnicities but although living together happily still has some serious strategic conflicting priorities It is the religion and patriotism which binds them together bringing unity in the diversity But this unity falls apart when people s political affiliations come to the fore Sometimes they put everything at stake for a fear of losing their political space therefore exploit their popular support to secure instant partisan gains The same happened to the CPEC and the relatively slow progress during the last ten years since inception is probably due to the inability to inculcate consensus among all stakeholders on the project

There are extensive socio-cultural similarities between two nations along with the history of cooperation and confidence at governmental level But still we observe clear hiccups in the implementation of CPEC If we look at the progress of CPEC disinterestedly we can t excuse either of the sides However much of the onus lies on Pakistani counterparts; because they exposed CPEC to their internal differences and political rivalries China and Pakistan can create an exceptional synergy to make CPEC an historic success by utilizing the Chinese pattern of Ge and Ju proposed by Fei Hsiao-tung Ge helps to understand the unity in diversity and Ju helps to understand the dimensions of diversity With so much in common in sociocultural aspects both nations can capitalize on the understanding of “Ge” and “Ju”

The case of diversity in China with 56 ethnicities is much more challenging than that of Pakistan We can broadly divide ethnic diversity in Pakistan into two distinct groups of conservatives and relatively less conservatives; rest of the customs and traditions

are more or less same across the country It is probably a lack of understanding of the dimensions of diversity i e Ju which needs attention to inculcate unity in diversity Numerous commonalities between Pakistan and China represent “unity in diversity”, such as approaches towards benevolence, righteousness, modesty loyalty and harmony truly manifest this concept Religion constitutes beliefs ideas preferences and considerations about what is holy sacred absolute and worthy of special reverence in human lives Social and ethical considerations are usually at the heart of any religion which determine the way of life of adherents of any religious belief Islam is an established religion; however Confucianism has been characterized as a system of social and ethical philosophies In terms of social cohesion moral values spiritual evolution and respect for humanity there are stark similarities between the two such as, the concept of filial piety' can be considered corresponding to the value of family in Pakistan Filial piety is the core concept in Confucianism that requires one to give parents and elders utmost respect and devotion Filial piety is akin to the reverence of one s ancestors and may entail unconditional obedience of seniors Surprisingly, roles defined in filial piety are similar to those determined in the notion of the value of family in Pakistan The husband and father being head of the family unit is responsible for all provisions while the wife and mother is accountable for daily routine in the households I feel excited putting forward the concept of Easternism as a foundation to determine the sociocultural impact of CPEC The concepts of Eastern connectedness and solidarity developed considerable popularity in some of the Asian nations in the period between the two World Wars, primarily focusing on Arab or Muslim cooperation and unity However that squeezed to an almost paralyzed body of the OIC Intense illiteracy intentional distance from modern and evolving sciences and latest technologies coupled with lack of visionary leadership throughout the Islamic world for the last few centuries, so the Muslim world failed to capitalize on the concept I am intentionally distancing myself from terms such as orientalism and Easternization Because Easternization is generally considered as an influence with ideas, customs, and so on, characteristic of eastern Asia It is also used to explain the influence, ideas,

Building an ecosystem for musicians

TODAY, most musicians in Pakistan are suffering in all respects due to the lack of a sustainable ecosystem for musicians The painful death of Asad Abbas renowned folk singer shows the murky reality that our lesser privileged artists go through Asad was suffering from kidney dysfunction and had made desperate pleas for financial assistance from the government and his fellow colleagues Unfortunately, he breathed his last on August 15 May God bless his soul and give strength to his family

Presently the music industry in Pakistan is largely led by brand advertisers who advertise various products of big corporations through music competitions, shows and programmes

Whereas brand advertisers have produced amazing music shows and songs, they have failed to establish a sustainable ecosystem for musicians despite investing millions of dollars

To put in simple words advertisers want to promote and sell their products at all costs Since the last 15 years, music programmes have been an effective way for them to do so Their main goal is to promote products rather than create music

This has caused serious harm to Pakistan’s music industry since advertisers have not created an ecosystem where music can be considered a serious profession Investment in the music industry which builds a sustainable ecosystem for musicians is the need of the hour

Globally, great artists and musicians selling millions of records and performing concerts are products of an ecosystem which caters to musicians Music companies are the centre-points of such an ecosystem Contrary to what is commonly believed music companies are not music production houses In fact, they are corporations like any other corporation, aiming to make money and pay dividends to their shareholders

Their survival is dependent on building a sustainable ecosystem and a marketplace

For instance the business model of a record label is that it signs artists for creating music

The artists assign their copyrights to labels and the labels then distribute and market the artists music Success of the artists and their music means better revenue for the label The labels then invest their earnings in creating better production studios distribution platforms technologies and social media outlets Labels also license music to music show producers electronic media and music streaming platforms

The earnings from such licensing are then shared with artists and all supporting parties

This creates employment development of skillsets and a thriving music industry Since music companies earn by selling music they ultimately invest in the entire supply chain of the music industry

However, when advertisers step into the shoes of music companies, the ecosystem and its importance is ignored Pomp and fanfare take the centrestage as the same are the key ingredi-

ents for successful branding The ecosystem that takes time energy focus and investment is relegated to the backburner In this regard small music enterprises cannot grow in an environment which is not conducive for growth The big money of the advertisers has resulted in lesser competition as small music enterprises are unable to compete with big advertisers This uneven level playing field shuts down small music enterprises which are essential for healthy and l o n g - t e r m growth of the music industry Music, like any other industry requires a l o n g - t e r m structured and consistent investment, focus and priority Advertisers’ big money also jolts the whole market and the evaluation criteria on which music, songs, artists, and their catalogue must be evaluated licensed assigned and sold Music companies KPIs and their methods of e v a l u a t i o n worldwide are based on the performance of the songs (such as number of views playlists revenue from digital and non-digital platforms and concert audience of artist) However advertisers method of evaluation is primarily based on identifying which artist can sell their product better and can act as an influencer This has distorted market rates in the music industry concerning performance fees and licensing costs

industry and it is essential for the growth of the music industry However advertisers don’t understand music distribution licensing and copyrights and they tend to be highly protective of their catalogues and refuse licensing or assignment On the other hand, global music companies thrive on the licensing business Licensing allows music to spread out, be exploited in its full term and be a source of revenue for both music companies and the artist

To conclude, the advertiser’s hunch for music is primarily to serve their own branding needs Music companies have the pressure of surviving and growing which enables innovative thinking On the other hand, advertisers have no pressure to create a market, which is why the music industry in Pakistan has deteriorated Music companies investing in building an ecosystem for musicians, are the only future for the growth of the music industry in Pakistan

customs, and characteristics of the eastern USA

Whereas orientalism probably carries somewhat negative implications these days as a label for literary analyses deprived of social or historical context

However the emergence of CPEC as an epitome of OBOR (One Belt One Road) initiative carries different circumstances Eastern nations have started making their mark on the global front with their economic scientific and technological excellence

Therefore it is probably the right time to promote Easternism to inculcate unity and foster swift development of Asian nations Recent developments in Asia, like the settlement of decades-old frictions between Saudi Arabia and Iran suggests that nothing is impossible in bringing Asian nations closer for the benefit of the entire planet

It is just a natural phenomenon that nations when dominating other societies remain subject to several internal depletions which occupy prominence once there is decline in that civilization Those who were struggling keep eye on leading cultures to adopt their strengths and by the time of decline they emerge as strong contenders to fill the gap There is no surprise that the trend will continue and people from the era of deprivation may emerge as leaders for tomorrow

Theoretically Sino-Pakistan socio-cultural similarities suggest a strong bond between the two neighbours; practically there is proven depth in the relationships of both countries, but perceptually there seems a gap between two societies which needs attention. There is a need to educate civil societies on both sides that philosophically we are akin to each other, therefore, we need to work hand in hand to transform the fate of this region, to uplift the quality of life of relevant communities, and to expand both Chinese and Pakistani economies

During this course there remains a discussion on several fronts including scientific development, societal values, and socio-cultural preferences Western developments are awe-inspiring extending comfort and ease to the daily lives of people, exploring all new dimensions of human life, extending human approach beyond this planet But still there are certain fronts where the West has remarkably failed in promoting transcending empathy and benevolence which is indeed a strength of Easternism

T h e o r e t i c a l l y Sino-Pakistan sociocultural similarities suggest a strong bond between the two neighbours; practically there is proven depth in the relationships of both countries but perceptually there seems a gap between two societies which needs attention There is a need to educate civil societies on both sides that philosophically we are akin to each other, therefore, we need to work hand in hand to transform the fate of this region, to uplift the quality of life of relevant communities, and to expand both Chinese and Pakistani economies

The writer is Consultant Pakistan Research Center HeBei Normal University China and Associate Professor Management Sciences and Head Center of Islamic Financeh COMSATS University (CUI) Lahore Campus, Pakistan He can be reached at drabdussattar@cuilahore edu pk

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

Naked oppression

THE recent increase in electricity rates for Karachi residents is an illegal and unfair step by the government against the people of the city The massive increase in K-Electric (KE) bills is an effort to curtail the circular debt arising out of financial mismanagement and operational inefficiencies of those involved This burden has no technical basis to be passed on to the citizens of Karachi

People buy electricity from KE, which is a private company enjoying a monopoly market Why are we, the people, being punished for that? KE itself is punishment enough for the people of the city, with a spike in monthly bills running parallel to the spike in loadshedding

Besides why at all should the people of Karachi be punished for the incompetence of distribution companies across the country? This is naked oppression The government should withdraw the increase in power prices immediately as it is unjust and illegal without any technical or moral ground

MOBASHIR SANDILA KARACHI

Lahore power woes

As the saying goes sharing is caring The various music programmes in Pakistan produce roughly 30-35 songs per year This is an extremely low figure and since licensing requirements are stringent thus a market of buyers and sellers cannot be created In Pakistan, the music industry suffers due to the absence of licensing by advertisers

To conclude, the advertiser s hunch for music is primarily to serve their own branding needs Music companies have the pressure of surviving and growing which enables innovative thinking On the other hand, advertisers have no pressure to create a market which is why the music industry in Pakistan has deteriorated Music companies investing in building an ecosystem for musicians are the only future for the growth of the music industry in Pakistan

There is a deep sense of frustration among the people in Lahore who are sick and tired of the menace of power-sector loadshedding Forget the physical torture their emotional health has suffered Together the two elements have had a seriously detrimental effect on the overall wellbeing of the community Loadshedding has become an all-too-familiar term in our daily conversations, and it has transformed from a mere inconvenience to a significant disruption in lives The erratic power cuts have left us feeling helpless frustrated and emotionally drained We find ourselves constantly on the edge

We are tired and exhausted from the constant battle to adapt and survive in a world where electricity is a luxury rather than a basic necessity We deserve better We deserve a power sector that is efficient, reliable and accountable T h e i m p a c t o f l o a d s h e d d i n g o n d a i l y r o u t i n e s c a n n o t b e o v e rs t a t e d I t d i s r u p t s w o r k s c h e d u l e s , c a u s i n g d e l a y s a n d m i s s e d d e a dl i n e s S t u d e n t s s t r u g g l e t o s t u d y a n d c o m p l e t e a s s i g n m e n t s a ff e c t i n g t h e i r e d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r e s s M o r e o v e r t h e p s y c h o l o g i c a l t o l l o f l o a d s h e d d i n g i s i m m e n s e O u r m o o d k e e p s f l u c t u a t i n g a s w e n a v i g a t e t h r o u g h t h e u n c e rt a i n t y a n d i n c o n v e n i e n c e c a u s e d b y t h e s e p o w e r c u t s T h e c o ns t a n t a n t i c i p a t i o n o f p o w e r r e t u r n i n g , o n l y t o b e d i s a p p o i n t e d , t a k e s a t o l l o n p e o p l e ’s m e n t a l w e l l b e i n g I t i s d i s h e a r t e n i n g t o s e e o u r h o p e s d a s h e d r e p e a t e d l y l e a v i n g u s f e e l i n g f r u s t r a t e d a n x i o u s a n d a n g r y

Annoyance too has become an ever-present sentiment The uncertainty of not knowing when the power will go out and when it will return has created an atmosphere of restlessness It is dispirating to see that while advancements are being made in various sectors, we continue to grapple with a basic necessity like electricity

We understand that loadshedding is a complex issue, influenced by various factors However it is crucial for the authorities to prioritise finding sustainable solutions to this problem

The government and all the other relevant stakeholders should invest in alternative energy sources improve infrastructure and implement effective power load management strategies

Loadshedding has become a source of immense frustration and emotional turmoil for the people

It is high time the authorities took decisive action to address the issue and provide the people with reliable and uninterrupted power supply People s lives and nation s progress are at stake

important

The ECP ’s own pronouncements create the impression that it could hold elec tions in time

C H I N A C O M M I T T E D T O O P E N I N G D O O R

W I D E R T O W O R L D A S C I F T I S K I C KS O F F

AS the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) kicked off Saturday in Beijing, the country has shown the world its unwavering commitment to wider opening up in the services trade sector and a firm determination to further promote global economic recovery

Delivering a video speech at the Global Trade in Services Summit of the 2023 CIFTIS, Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday vowed to work with all countries and parties to advance inclusive development through openness promote connectivity and integration through cooperation foster drivers for development through innovation, and create a better future through shared services, in a bid to jointly get the world economy onto the track of sustained recovery Themed “openness leads development cooperation creates a win-win future the 2023 CIFTIS takes place in the Chinese capital from September 2 to 6

M O R E I N C L U S I V E E N V I R O N -

M E N T: Since it was launched in 2012, the CIFTIS has attracted a total of over 600 000 exhibitors from 196 nations and regions This year guests from 59 countries and 24 international organizations

are taking part in the fair

Over 500 Global Fortune 500 companies and industry-leading enterprises are showcasing their accomplishments at the 2023 CIFTIS taking the overall internationalization rate to 20 percent

In his video speech, President Xi stressed that China will make its development environment more open and more inclusive

“We will expand the globally-oriented network of high-standard free trade areas actively engage in negotiations on the negative list for trade in services and investment, and open wider in such services areas as telecommunications, tourism, law and vocational examinations Our national integrated

48 killed in East DR Congo anti-UN rally crackdown

KINSHASA

A G E N C I E S

At least 48 people have been killed in a crackdown on an anti-UN protest in eastern DR Congo, according to sources and official documentation reviewed on Thursday, raising a previously reported death toll

On Wednesday Congolese soldiers stopped a religious sect from holding a demonstration against United Nations peacekeepers in the city of Goma

Some 10 people were initially reported killed after the troops entered a radio station and a place of worship, according to local sources A policeman was also lynched in the violence

But an internal army document consulted on Thursday and verified by security officials gave a toll of 48 people killed in the incident in addition to the slain policeman and 75 people wounded

The document also said soldiers seized a number of bladed weapons and arrested 168 people, including the leader of the Christian-animist sect, which is named “Natural Judaic and Messianic Faith towards the Nations” Congolese pro-democracy activist group LUCHA also stated on Thursday that the number of people killed was close to 50

In a statement late on Thursday, the government put the toll at 43 dead, with 56 injured and 158 people apprehended, including the sect leader”

It said it supported “the investigation opened by the military auditor so that those responsible can be brought to justice

Two unverified video clips circulating on social media on Thursday appeared to show Congolese soldiers throwing lifeless bodies some drenched in blood into the back of a military vehicle

“Congolese security forces shot and killed dozens of protesters and wounded scores more ” Human Rights

Watch said in a statement

DRC forces appear to have fired into a crowd to prevent a demonstration an extremely callous as well as unlawful way to enforce a ban, said Thomas Fessy, senior Congo researcher at Human Rights

Watch

The organisation said “senior military officials who ordered the use of unlawful lethal force should be suspended investigated and held accountable in fair and public trials

Anti-UN sentiment –

The Democratic Republic of Congo s east has been ravaged by militia violence for three decades, a legacy of regional wars that flared in the 1990s and 2000s

The UN peacekeeping mission in the region is one of the largest and costliest in the world with an annual budget of about $1 billion

But the UN comes in for sharp criticism in the central African nation, where many people perceive the peacekeepers as failing to prevent conflict

Last year, dozens were killed in anti-UN protests across eastern Congo including four peacekeepers

demonstration zone for greater openness in the services sector as well as eligible pilot free trade zones and free trade port will be the first to align their policies with high-standard international economic and trade rules said Xi

He added China will widen access to its services sector, advance opening up of cross-border services trade in an orderly manner improve the level of standardization of services trade and steadily expand institutional opening up China s State Council in mid-August unveiled guidelines containing 24 specific measures to further optimize China’s foreign investment environment and beef up foreign investment inflow These measures include expanding

pilot areas to open wider in terms of services, encouraging foreign firms and their R&D centers to undertake major sci-tech projects, facilitating the travel of senior executives, technicians and their families and enhancing the expertise of personnel in local government offices handling foreign investment Amid rising unilateralism protectionism and de-globalization, China continues to deepen opening up and optimize its business environment, expanding its “friend circle” in trade services China has service trade relations with nearly 240 countries and regions and has signed bilateral service trade cooperation agreements with 14 countries

enterprises and institutions will launch an array of new products and technologies at the 2023 CIFITS spanning the fields of artificial intelligence financial technology medical and health care and cultural creativity, injecting new vitality to the development of service trade Xi on Saturday noted China will improve the path of innovation-driven development

“China will move faster to cultivate new drivers for the digitalization of services trade roll out pilot reform on basic systems for data, and promote the development of digital trade through reform and innovation,” said Xi

Report reveals dilemma of 840,000 Afghans awaiting resettlement assistance in US

A recent report by the State Department s inspector general has shed light on the plight of over 840 000 Afghans who have applied for a resettlement program aimed at assisting those who supported the US war effort in Afghanistan

This revelation underscores the challenges and complexities of a program intended to provide refuge for America s allies in the war-torn nation, even as the Taliban regained control following the US withdrawal two years ago

The special immigrant visa program initiated in 2009 was designed to aid Afghans who worked closely with American forces often at great personal risk A similar program exists for Iraqis However, both programs have faced criticism for their sluggish processing leaving applicants in a perilous state of uncertainty

The situation has become more dire since the US left Afghanistan, with a staggering increase in visa applications In October 2021, there were fewer than 30 000 applicants By December 2022 this number had surged to

approximately 155,000, excluding family members who can resettle with approved applicants

As of April this year the State Department estimates that over 840 000 applicants for the special visa program and their family members are still in Afghanistan, awaiting assistance Notably, only around 50 percent of applicants qualify after the initial review

Since President Biden took office in January 2021 the State Department has issued nearly 34 000 visas for applicants and their families, marking a significant increase compared to previous years

Efforts to improve the program have included hiring additional staff collaborating with the

TikToker Mahek Bukhari and mom behind bars for life for gruesome murders

LONDON

A G E N C I E S

Social media sensation Mahek Bukhari and her mother Ansreen Bukhari have been sentenced to life behind bars for their involvement in a ruthless double murder case

The victims, Saqib Hussain and Hashim Ijazuddin, both just 21 years old, lost their lives in a horrific car crash during a high-speed chase in Leicestershire

The motive behind this tragic incident revolves around a love triangle gone terribly wrong Saqib Hussain had threatened to expose an affair he had with Ansreen, who was 46 at the time

The Bukharis plotted to meet Saqib in a Tesco car park, promising to return £3,000 he’d spent on Ansreen during their relationship They planned to snatch Saqib’s phone believing it held explicit images of Ansreen he intended to disclose

But the situation spiralled into violence when Saqib and his friend Hashim were ambushed by a gang of masked individuals, recruited by the Bukharis The victims found themselves in a harrowing chase with speed reaching up to 90mph along the A46 Their vehicle went out of their control and struck into a tree

Later the car caught fire that took their lives

The judge Timothy Spencer KC categorised the case as a story of love obsession and extortion and didn t mince words when he called it cold-blooded murder He highlighted the role of TikTok and Instagram in Mahek Bukhari’s life, where she had garnered tens of thousands of followers by sharing beauty and fashion tips

Addressing Mahek directly Judge Spencer commented on her self-obsession and warped values underlining her apparent lack of awareness regarding the consequences of her actions on others

As Mahek was led away to begin her life sentence, she blew a kiss to her father, who was present in the courtroom

Pentagon to verify applicants employment, and streamlining certain application requirements

However the inspector general s report suggests that more can be done

It highlights issues related to frequent turnover and vacancies in key positions overseeing the special immigrant visa process, emphasizing the need for continuity and efficient management

The report underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges to fulfill the United States commitment to its Afghan allies and expedite the resettlement process for those who stood by American forces during the twodecade-long conflict

KYIV

A G E N C I E S

Ukraine said on Friday its troops had broken through Russia s first line of defences in several places, though they then encountered even more heavily fortified Russian positions

Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said Kyiv’s troops in a much-vaunted counteroffensive against Russian forces were advancing in the Zaporizhzhia region Washington also said on Friday that Kyiv had made notable progress on the southern front in the last 72 hours There is an offensive in several directions and in certain areas And in some places, in certain areas, this first line was broken through,” Maliar told Ukrainian television

She added however that Kyiv s troops who have been battling to advance through heavily mined areas for almost three months had now run into major defensive Russian fortifications Our armed forces have to overcome a lot of obstacles in order to move forward,” she said Heavy fighting swept the villages around Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles Maliar said but added it was difficult to determine whether any advances had been made In the course of a single day, positions between the two sides can change several times

The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces in its evening report on Facebook said that Russian forces had made no headway in attempts to advance in five different sectors of the front from Kupiansk in the northeast to different parts of Donetsk region

In Washington, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the United States had “noted over the last 72 hours or so some notable progress by Ukrainian armed forces in that southern line of advance coming out of the Zaporizhzhia area”

They have achieved some success against that second line of Russian defences Kirby said adding it was up to Ukraine how to capitalize on that success Ukraine s counteroffensive has not yet recaptured any major settlements, though it has retaken more than a dozen small villages Last week it captured the village of Robotyne beyond which lies Russian-occupied high ground huge anti-tank ditches and lines of concrete fortifications visible from space Russia already calls the Ukrainian push a failure; Kyiv says it has been advancing slowly on purpose to minimise losses, and that its task is more difficult because it lacks the air power that its Western allies take for granted Kyiv bristled this week over news reports quoting unidentified U S officials complaining about its slow progress Some fear the West s staunch support could begin to falter as colder and wetter weather further hampers progress on the battlefield later this year

The judge also mentioned how Ansreen had been drawn into the glamour of her daughter s social media career a stark contrast to her life as a mother and housewife He pointed out that Ansreen s involvement had been far removed from her usual role

The trial included emotional statements from the victims’ families highlighting the profound impact of the incident on their lives Mr Ijazuddin’s father Sikandar Hayat expressed his shock at the defendants failure to call emergency services after the crash

In addition to Mahek and Ansreen Bukhari, their accomplices, Rekan Karwan and Raees Jamal, were also sentenced for their roles in the double murder Raees Jamal was already serving a sentence for rape

QWP for audit of agreements reached with IPPs

PESHAWAR

S TA F F R E P O R T

Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Chairman Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao on Saturday said an audit should be conducted into the agreements reached with the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) as the deals were mainly investor-friendly instead of being consumerfriendly He was addressing a gathering in Swabi district where known political figures announced joining the QWP He said that the government should take steps to address the issues of public

The QWP leader also expressed concern over the rising attacks on the security forces personnel in various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and called for an effective strategy to deal with the scourge of terrorism He said the country was faced with a host of challenges ranging from political and financial instability to worsening law and order and the deepening sense of deprivation among the smaller federating units He called for creating an enabling environment for the holding of the free fair and peaceful general election by conducting the delimitation process in a proper manner so that the next elected government could take steps to provide relief to the people in the face of backbreaking inflation as well as putting the economy on the right track

He hoped the next elected government would also focus on addressing the sense of deprivation among the smaller provinces adding that no effort should be spared to restore peace in the country particularly the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and its merged districts

China’s new foreign state immunity law restric ts applic able scenarios

BEIJING

A G E N C I E S

China’s new foreign state immunity law, which was adopted on Friday by the country s top legislature confirmed that China s policy has shifted to limited immunity in line with global norms and will be implemented in Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions

Before mid-20th century, absolute state immunity represented a universal principle that any actions and properties of a foreign state are exempted from territorial jurisdiction As states are increas-

ingly the subjects of civil and commercial activities many have adopted the principle of limited immunity China s new law is also based on the principle of limited immunity, which differentiates a foreign state s sovereign and non-sovereign activities, as well as sovereign and non-sovereign properties Only sovereign activities and properties can be exempted from the country s legal jurisdiction the Xinhua News Agency reported citing an official from the National People s Congress Adapting to China’s ever-expanding foreign engagement, the law clarified that

China’s foreign state immunity policy has shifted from absolute to limited immunity Its formulation and implementation represent a key achievement in China s foreign affairs legislation China s foreign state immunity policy upholds the principle of sovereignty equality of states, and is distinct in nature from the long-arm jurisdiction practiced by certain countries the NPC official noted

The law helps safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and legal persons, and facilitates high-level opening up; follows the principle of national sovereignty and equal-

ity safeguarding China’s sovereignty security and development interests; fills the gaps in the legal system and accelerates the improvement of China s foreignrelated legal system; and offers full play to the functional role of judicial trials in foreign-related fields and improves judicial efficiency according to the official According to the law in the following scenarios immunity does not apply: the foreign state notified to subject to Chinese jurisdiction; lawsuits filed in commercial activities or labor contracts; compensation or arbitration cases caused by (a foreign state’s) infringement of rights

U k r a i n e s ay s t r o o p s b r e a c h R u s s i a n l i n e s, h e av i e r d e f e n c e s l i e a h e a d

CORPORATE CORNER

PAKISTAN, XINJIANG REGION AGREE TO DEEPEN MEDICAL COOPERATION

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

CH I N A Xinjiang’s region will deepen cooperation with Pakistan in medical field Gwadar

Honourable Eric Adams, the Mayor of the New York City held a gathering of Muslim leaders from across the City where he made a historic announcement stating that all mosques as well as Islamic Centers will be permitted to recite Azan using loud-speaker Al-Khoi Islamic Center of New York was represented by Syed Meesam Razvi who Commended the Mayor s his

23rd ITCN Asia 2023:

‘Caretaker govt committed to promoting IT Sec tor ’

K A R A C H I: The caretaker federal and provincial governments are committed to promoting the IT sector across the country to support the vision of the Special Facilitation Investment Council (SFIC) for strengthening the economy This was stated by Younus Dahga Minister for Finance Planning Development and Revenue -- Government of Sindh while talking exclusively to the media on Saturday at the closing session of the 23rd ITCN Asia: Declaring Pakistan The Regional Hub The IT sector is one of the crucial sectors in addressing the country’s issues of macroeconomic indicators, including bringing in precious foreign exchange to the country generation of entrepreneurship creation of jobs and enhancing financial inclusion in the country The caretaker provincial government will focus on digitization and automation within the governance to expedite the facilitation to the masses, enhancing transparency in the processes to control corruption and delays in the system PR

AKU's 5th Paediatric Research Week takes conversation beyond child sur vival

KARACHI: Research done by faculty at the Aga Khan University has contributed to the decline of mortality rate of babies and children 35% and 50%, respectively at its field sites of research This is not a quick win but years of scientific work and building trust with communities A published paper takes months or even years to develop It emerges however, as the first single datapoint that is collected out in the field, far from the campus, between a vulnerable mother and child and one of our community health workers We re now witnessing tangible outcomes of efforts initiated over a few decades ago said AKU Chair of Paediatrics Dr Fyezah Jehan She was speaking at the University s fifth annual paediatric research week which brought together over 300 students and healthcare professionals from Pakistan and beyond Dr Adil Haider the Dean of the Medical College at AKU emphasized the institution's dedication to advancing medical knowledge holistically and driving innovation in maternal newborn and child health Policy and clinical practice rooted in scientific research is the answer," he said PR

Hytera, Jazz par tner to launch push to talk business communic ation solution

ISLAMABAD: Hytera Communications (SZSE: 002583), a leading global provider of professional communications technologies and solutions, and Jazz Pakistan’s leading digital operator have partnered to empower businesses with an instant push-to-talk over cellular (PoC) communication solution The Push to Talk over Cellular (PoC) solution, also called Jazz Biz Walkie Talkie, is a mission-critical service that comes with an advanced set of features to facilitate group communication across locations and a nationwide dispersed workforce It’s a cloud-based GSM-enabled solution that offers instant yet cost-effective communication over 3G and 4G networks Our partnership with Hytera is set to transform business communications in Pakistan, empowering industries to achieve an instant, safe, and reliable communication solution to achieve enhanced operational efficiency,” said Khurram Riaz Vice President Marketing & Products at Jazz By harnessing our strong 4G network coverage and the power of Hytera PoC solution businesses get more power to connect with more devices and larger group sizes nationwide on the Jazz super 4G network with Jazz Biz Walkie Talkie PR

Pro reported on Saturday Recently Senator Rana Mahmoodul Hassan and his delegation visited Xinjiang Medical University and had a symposium with school president Haji Akber Aisa to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation between Pakistan and Xinjiang Medical University in the fields of education and scientific research

In our previous exchange with BRI countries, we learned that they are very interested in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including Uygur, Kazak and Mongolian medicine,” said Haji Akber Aisa Xinjiang Medical University’s medical exchanges with BRI countries started long ago but there is a lack of a platform for all-round medical cooperation

Earlier this year, at the first session of the 14th National People s Congress (NPC), Haji Akber Aisa put forward the

proposal of carrying out an action plan f o r B R I m e d i c a l s c i e n c e a n d t e c h n o logy innovation

Strengthening exchanges of international medical talent and building a bridge for mutual learning are important parts of the plan At the symposium, the two sides had

in-depth discussions on education policies, student exchanges and other aspects

They also planned to build a platform for international education cooperation further strengthening cooperation in scientific research exchange of teachers and joint training of students

Our university has 30 years of expe-

Pakistan Air Force JK-17 Thunder par ticipates in multi-national air exercise ‘Bright Star 2023’ in Egypt

Multi-national Air Exercise "Bright Star 2023" has kicked off at the Mohammed Naguib Military Base Egypt Pakistan Air Force contingent will showcase its exceptional capabilities at the exercise alongside its JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, dedicated air & ground crew

Originally established as a bilateral training event between the United States and Egypt during the Camp David Accord of 1977 Bright Star Exercise has evolved into a significant multi-national endeavor

Since 1995, nations from around the world have been invited to participate in the mega exercise, transforming it into one of the largest and most intricate joint air force exercises globally The exercise aims to promote interoperability among the participating nations, fostering shared learning opportunities Designed to simulate realistic aerial warfare scenarios, Exercise Bright Star provides an invaluable opportunity for participating Air Forces to assess their operational readiness in real-time Over

the course of two weeks the exercise will bring together air naval and ground assets of the participating nations in the desert terrain of NorthWest Cairo, Egypt A total of 34 countries including Pakistan, the United States of America, India, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Greece, and Qatar will be participating in this prestigious event

In light of the complex security environment and contemporary

rience in international education with a mature system covering undergraduate and postgraduate stages

We have cultivated about 1,200 Pakistani students In the future we will strengthen interschool cooperation with Pakistan and collaborate in medical qualification examinations

We want to play a more active role in promoting medical research and talent training in BRI countries ” He added

Haji Akber Aisa also suggested establishing high-quality overseas research and education centers in BRI countries and launching some mutually recognized technical norms and standards of TCM to facilitate resource sharing and improve the technological innovation capacity of the BRI countries “With the internationalization of medical industry and advancement of medical science and technology TCM will be integrated into the mainstream medical system of Belt and Road countries, and play a more important role in other aspects including economy, culture and ecology,” he said

Indonesia’s CG hosts 78th diplomatic reception in Karachi

strategic challenges exercises like Bright Star 2023 enable the Pakistan Air Force to enhance its interoperability with friendly nations Apart from strengthening military relations, this exercise will facilitate the practice of integrated employment of combat and combat support assets It will also provide an opportunity to formulate and validate tactics against contemporary threats ensuring preparedness for any future contingencies PR

Honorary Consul General of South Africa in Karachi Majid Bashir Ahmed gave a luncheon in honor of the selected youth cricket team under the Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt scheme Players and officials of the South Africa women's cricket team and the national women's cricket team who are visiting Pakistan for the first time participated while a large number of diplomats and dignitaries from the city also participated in the ceremony, among them former Governor Sindh Lt General (rtd) Moin Uddin Haider MQM Leader Dr Farooq Sattar Irfanullah Marwat PCB Women Wing Chief Tania Malik and others were present

Under the Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt scheme, the South Africa tour is aimed at bringing out the budding cricketers it is hoped that the South Africa tour will give the players an opportunity to learn Ambassador

former test captain Sarfraz Ahmed said that it is a matter of pride to give opportunities to budding cricketers, the tour will enhance their skills Consul General Majid Bashir Ahmed expressed his gratitude

President Tokayev ’s Economic Blueprint for a just Kazak hstan

ASIF NOOR

MUHAMMAD

In his recent state-of-the-nation address, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev unveiled an ambitious economic reform agenda titled “Economic Course of a Just Kazakhstan ” This comprehensive plan reflects Kazakhstan s commitment to shaping a prosperous future for its citizens while bolstering the nation s economic self-sufficiency

One of the central themes of President Tokayev’s address was the urgent need to establish a robust industrial framework within Kazakhstan This emphasis on industrialization as an economic driver is not new in Kazakhstan s policy landscape However, the President’s call for accelerated development in sectors such as heavy engineering uranium enrichment and automotive components indicates a heightened commitment to diversify the economy Moreover, the proposal to grant tax exemptions to both foreign and domestic investors for the first three years sends a clear signal that Kazakhstan aims to attract substantial investment into these vital sectors This move aligns with the broader global trend of countries offering incentives to attract foreign direct investment, positioning Kazakhstan as a competitive desti-

nation for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations President Tokayev’s call for coordination between fiscal and monetary policies demonstrates a commitment to achieving stable economic growth The targeted growth rate of 6-7 percent is ambitious but essential for Kazakhstan s long-term development Achieving such growth requires prudent management of fiscal and monetary tools to stimulate economic activity without risking inflation or financial instability

The President s emphasis on attracting foreign banks to boost competition and increase corporate lending is a significant step towards ensuring the availability of capital for businesses Adequate access to credit is vital for entrepreneurship and business expansion, which, in turn, stimulates economic growth SMEs are the backbone of any economy and President Tokayev’s commitment to supporting them is commendable Initiatives to increase transparency in asset management and encourage consolidation among small businesses will help level the playing field and reduce market monopolies The private sector ’s growth and diversification are essential for a sustainable and vibrant economy The President s emphasis on sus-

tainability and environmental protection acknowledges the global shift towards clean energy sources Kazakhstan’s plans to increase renewable energy capacity and develop hydrogen generation reflect a forward-thinking approach to energy policy The proposal to hold a national referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant indicates a commitment to responsible and transparent energy development This step will ensure that the decision aligns with the preferences and concerns of the Kazakh population Kazakhstan s aspiration to become an IT-focused country is in line with global trends President Tokayev’s recognition that Kazakhstan ranks among the world leaders in e-government and fintech development underscores the nation s potential in the digital realm The goal of increasing IT services exports to one billion dollars by 2026 through partnerships with major foreign IT companies demonstrates a commitment to harnessing the economic potential of the tech sector The President s vision for Kazakhstan to become an IT-focused nation is in sync with the digital transformation era The goal of increasing IT services exports through partnerships with major foreign IT companies showcases Kazakhstan s potential in the tech sector

The Consulate General (CE) of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi, under the leadership of Dr June Kuncoro Hadiningrat, hosted diplomatic reception as commemoration of the 78th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Indonesia The event was held at a local hotel and attended by diplomatic corps in Karachi representatives of the Sindh Government, business community, education community, media community and Pakistani colleagues The caretaker Minister for Home and Prison Brig Haris Nawaz (Retired) who acted as chief of guest joined the event along with officials from Sindh Government and diplomatic community in Karachi The event shows a celebration of cultural diversity, strengthening diplomatic ties, and fostering goodwill between Indonesia and Pakistan The Indonesian Consul General, Dr June Kuncoro Hadiningrat in his heartfelt speech deliberated the cooperation between Indonesia-Pakistan through joint research scholarships from Indonesia to Pakistanis gastronomy and Indonesia s commitment to allocate bigger import quota of rice from Pakistan Haris Nawaz also expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Indonesia for the support and camaraderie shared with Pakistan Joint collaboration by Indonesian and Pakistani students under the Indonesia-Pakistan Children Friendship enthralled the audience with a captivating dance performance of Tari Priring (plate dance), showcasing the vibrant cultural diversity of Indonesia PR

Delegation of National University of Technology students visits S afe C ity Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: According to the details a delegation of students from National University of Technology visited Safe City Islamabad a police public relations officer said He said that the delegation visits the command and control center, data hub unit, modern technology-equipped cameras, and the Police operations center hall They were fully briefed about the procedures and its effectiveness Furthermore the delegation was also briefed that Safe City Islamabad is playing a significant role in various sectors through modern techniques including the Police Operations Center Emergency Control Center, Data Hub, Dispatch Control Center, E-Challan System, and the Pukar15” helpline The delegation was also appraised of the functionality and benefits of the Safe City cameras in the city The modern cameras of Safe City are playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the city preventing crimes and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens 42% of crimes are resolved through the Safe City Command and Control Center Face recognition cameras have been installed at the entry and exit points of the city which are playing an important role in identifying suspicious elements The delegation acknowledged the modern technical system of the Islamabad Capital Police and its benefits The delegation expressed special gratitude to Islamabad Capital City Police Officer Dr Akbar Nasir Khan and his team for this successful visits PR

Sadaffe Abid CEO CIRCLE Women Association stated that SheLovesTech2023 is a platform that celebrates tech innovation groundbreaking ideas and the power of female empowerment! PR

KARACHI: On the occasion of 23rd ITCN ASIA exhibition at Karachi Expo Center Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology Umar Saif inaugurating Aqua Orange's stall by cutting the ribbon along with Shahan Farid, Owais Adamani Ken Levine and others PR

SECTION OF MEDIA MISREPORTED PM’S RECENT INTERACTION WITH JOURNALISTS: SOL ANGI

and Broadcasting

Murtaza Solangi on Saturday said some sections of media had misreported the recent interaction of Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul-Haq Kakar with journalists in Islamabad regarding the electricity bills issue

Murtaza Solangi, in a news statement, clarified that when the prime minister was asked during the interaction whether the electricity bills had caused chaos or anarchy in the country he ruled out the anarchy but did not dismiss the matter as non-issue

He said the prime minister had not stated that the issue of electricity bills was not worrisome for the people, rather he explained what were the reasons be-

hind the expensive electricity

The prime minister reaffirmed in the media interaction that the solution would soon be worked out Solangi added

Gov t extends time period of joint check posts to curb smuggling in Balochistan

ISLAMABAD S H A H Z A D PA R A C H A

The Federal government has extended the time period of joint check posts (consisting of Pakistan Customs Frontier Corps and local police/LEAs provincial food departments) in different cities of Balochistan for another two months to curb smuggling

According to notification issued by Ministry of Interior, the competent authority is pleased to extend time period of 10 joint check posts (Garang Shiekh

Wasil Panjpai Galangur Padagh Landi Jangyan

Dali Basima Wangu (Gandava) to ensure enforcement of applicable laws (the Customs Act 1969/ the price control and Prevention of profiteering and hoarding act 1977 etc) regarding movement of essential commodities till October 31, 2023

Joint patrolling teams/ anti smuggling squad will also be executed along with highways in Balochistan in the light of FBR order dated April 14 2023 for seizure of essential commodities

It is pertinent to note that the previous government has established these joint check posts after the increasing reports of essential commodities smuggling

The Fbr had transferred a number of its lower staff posted in Punjab KP and Islamabad to Balochistan to make presence in every check post; however there are reports that smuggling of basic commodities is still going on Recently, the Caretaker Prime Minister has also directed the authorities to curb the smuggling and officials involved in smuggling should be apprehended

ATC Lahore discharges

Asad Umar from five May 9 rioting cases

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

An Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore discharged former federal minister and PTI leader Asad Umar in five cases registered under the provisions of violence and vandalism on May 9 after the arrest of PTI Chairman

Imran Khan

The anti-terrorism court on Saturday discharged Asad

Umar in five terrorism cases when police informed the court that the former PTI leader was not required in these cases

Asad Umar was booked in three cases registered at Sarwar Road police station and one each at Race

Course and Gulberg police stations in Lahore

He was discharged in case 852/23 lodged at Race

Course police station case 1283/23 at Gulberg police station and case 97/23 at Sarwar police station

ATC cancels Qureshi Fawad s bails

Meanwhile, the anti-terrorism court cancelled the bail of Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Fawad Chaudhry In the case of torching Muslim League House in Model

Town ATC Judge Abhar Gul dismissed Fawad

Chaudhry's interim bail for non-appearance

Meanwhile in the May 9 violence cases while delivering the verdict the judge ordered the bail of Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Fawad Chaudhry to be canceled

The court dismissed the bail application on the grounds of non-pursuance

Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s bail was dismissed in Model Town police station cases 366/23 and 367/23 while Fawad Chaudhry s bail application was also dismissed in Model Town police station cases 366/23 and 367/23

He said those who were responsible for the current situation had also been using the issue for political point-scoring in the wake of the upcoming election

PM Kakar never said that people s problems were “unjust”, he added He said some responsible journalists had also confirmed that the prime minister had not referred to the matter of electricity bills as a non-serious issue Instead he had stated that the country had commitments with international organizations, assuring that a solution would be worked out for the people without compromising the promises made to the organizations The minister said ironically it was projected in some sections of media that the prime minister was not concerned about people s difficulties, which was unjust and against journalistic norms He appealed to the media to report news according to the facts The minister also cited a couplet from Faiz Ahmed Faiz Poetry to comment on the misreporting of the media interaction

Republic an lawmaker moves bill to link US aid to Pakistan with democrac y

WASHINGTON

S TA F F R E P O R T

A Republican lawmaker has introduced an amendment to the House of Representatives annual appropriations legislation that would cut off funds to Pakistan to discourage the crackdown on political dissent

Republicans are a majority in the House

The amendment, proposed by Tennessee Republican Andy Ogles would bar the US Department of Defence from providing assistance to Pakistan in the wake of an ongoing crackdown by the country s military establishment and its civilian allies

The Intercept, a news site that last month published a report about a cipher that led to the ouster of the PTI government, noted in its report on the amendment that “military cooperation between Pakistan and the US has increased again since Imran Khan’s ouster with the Pakistani military now emerging by European accounts as a significant supplier of military aid to Ukraine

The report described the proposed amendment as “an extreme long shot”, but pointed out that “its introduction reflects increasing concerns about democratic backsliding in Pakistan across party lines”

ISLAMABAD

S

T

Pakistan’s prominent service-oriented enterprises showcased their accomplishments at the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) opened in Beijing on Saturday

Pakistani firms including Special Technology Zone Authority (STZA), Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) NETSOL ISBEI National Bank of Pakistan National Logistic Corporation (NLC) Fb Enterprises and others set up their booths at Pakistan Pavilion to attract Chinese investors Pakistan Ambassador to China, Moinul Haque officially inaugurated the pavilion The representatives of the companies attended the inaugural ceremony

For the first time, we have a meaningful participation of Pakistan’s top service-oriented companies which briefed visiting

Haleem Adil handed over to police on 3-day physical remand

KARACHI

S TA F F R E P O R T

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leader Haleem Adil Sheikh was handed over to police on a three-day physical remand by an anti-terrorism court in Karachi on Saturday The PTI Sindh President was produced before the ATC in connection with a case filed against him with the Mubina Police Station

The investigation officer during the hearing stated before the court that the PTI leader had instigated party workers for the May 9 mayhem adding that it was on his instructions that a police van and certain other installations were attacked and destroyed

The policeman requested the court that Sheikh be handed over to the police for further investigation

Upon this, the court, while dismissing Sheikh’s bail plea, remanded him in police custody for three days

K P g o v t e n f o r c e s

During the debate over the National Defence Authorisation Act earlier this summer, Democratic Rep Greg Casar of Texas pushed an amendment that would direct the State Department to study backsliding of democracy in Pakistan, but it wasn’t ruled in order for a vote on the floor of the House

The annual appropriations legislation allows the continuation of foreign military financing for Pakistan to support counterterrorism counterinsurgency capabilities in the country as well as bilateral economic assistance, but prior to the obligation of funds, the US Secretary of State shall submit a report to congressional committees detailing the amount of financing and other support by the government of Pakistan to schools supported by affiliated with or run by the Taliban or any domestic or foreign terrorist organisation in Pakistan

The secretary shall also inform Congress if Islamabad is cooperating with Washington in issuing visas in a timely manner for US visitors and providing humanitarian organisations access to detainees, internally displaced persons and other Pakistani civilians affected by conflicts in Pakistan and the region

The secretary shall also inform Congress of the extent to which the Pakistani government is strengthening democracy in Pakistan

enterprises about the incentives and investment-friendly environment in Pakistan Commercial

Counselor Pakistan Embassy Beijing, Ghulam Qadir told media

He said that the response of the people was phenomenal and wonderful as they thronged to the Pakistani pavilion and were briefed by the representatives of the companies specializing in IT telecommunications logistics and traveling and financial services

It is beginning and hoped that more services companies would come to China and attend in the similar events in China and build business relations with the Chinese counterparts he added Ghulam Qadir said that the traders of handicrafts have also set up their stalls at the pavilion and displayed their products which attracted a lot of customers

He expressed confidence that the participation of Pakistani companies would help enhance trade

T I S

between the two countries and increase the regional connectivity

Themed openness leads development cooperation creates a win-win future, the fair takes place in the Chinese capital from September 2 to 6

As the world’s sole state-level and comprehensive fair with international reach dedicated to trade in services the event has attracted more than 2 400 enterprises to participate in its offline exhibition, including over 500 global top 500 and industry-leading companies

With an exhibition area spanning 155 000 square meters the 2023 CIFTIS features a comprehensive exhibition along with nine thematic ones covering industries ranging from culture and tourism, education and health to finance, environment, telecommunications, computing and information

The exhibitors are from 59 countries and regions as well as 24 international organizations

s t r i c t e r f u n d i n g

p o l i c y f o r

d e v e l o p m e n t p r o j e c t s

PESHAWAR

A Z I Z B U N E R I

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has instituted a policy to withhold further funding for development projects until 100 percet utilisation of already allocated funds is achieved

All administrative departments have been informed that additional funds will only be allocated to relevant projects once the entirety of the existing funds has been effectively spent

The Planning and Development (P&D) Department has directed all administrative bodies to ensure that 100% of the allocated development funds are utilised before seeking additional funds

To facilitate this process, specific documentation, including a certificate of fund utilisation, overall fund records work plans and summaries for additional funds are mandatory No additional funds will be disbursed for any project without the submission of these requisite documents and failure to produce any one of them will result in the denial of further funding Furthermore, the same documentation is essential for the allocation of new funds The decision to withhold funding for projects not covered by these mandatory documents has been made to ensure transparency and efficient utilisation of resources

Caretaker FM meets Turkiye, Kuwait envoys

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani on Friday held meetings with Turkiye Ambassador Dr Mehmet Paçaci and Kuwait Ambassador Nassar Abdulrahman Almutairi to discuss matters of mutual interest

The caretaker foreign minister reviewed PakistanTurkiye ties and reaffirmed commitment to further strengthen cooperation in all areas of mutual interest with Dr Mehmet He expressed satisfaction at convergence of views on all major regional and global issues Meanwhile the interim foreign minister while meeting with Ambassador Nassar took up salient aspects of bilateral cooperation to further strengthen relations between Pakistan and Kuwait He aims to improve the country’s relations with the Middle Eastern countries to maintain better relations with the Muslim world

PTI rebuts repor ts on hiring of foreign law firm as ‘misleading’

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Spokesperson flatly refuted the misleading reports regarding the hiring of a foreign law firm to raise the worst human violations in Pakistan in international courts elaborating PTI Chairman Imran Khan never supported any such initiative even in the face of the worst state operation and suppression and open violation of the constitution and law in the country

The response came following reports on media and social media that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has hired the services of a British bar-

rister, Geoffrey Robertson KC to represent him in the international courts The PTI spokesperson, in his strong reaction on Saturday strongly condemned the reign of terror unleashed on the PTI leaders and its workers in the country However he belied all the misleading reports being circulated in media regarding hiring of a foreign law firm and said that there was no truth in the reports He made it clear that PTI neither approach any judicial forum outside Pakistan nor has any intention to do so in future The PTI spokesperson expressed disappointment over the failure of the justice system to rein in the rising fascism lawlessness widespread brutalities and open violation of the law of the land However he

stated that even then PTI demanded justice from the Pakistan judicial system and wanted it to take the muchneeded effective measures to ensure supremacy of the constitution and the rule of law in the country PTI spokesperson said that undoubtedly Pakistan was under worst fascism and lawlessness where there was no regard for the constitution and rule of law

He said that gravity of the situation could be judged from the fact that the Chairman of the largest and most popular and only federal political party of the country and former Prime Minister Imran Khan was in the prison in sheer violation of the law who was facing the worst political vendetta in the history of the country

PBC condemns disregard for LHC order as Per vaiz Elahi challenges re-arrest

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

PTI President Ch Pervaiz Elahi on Saturday challenged his arrest under the MPO while the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) condemned the manhandling and re-arrest of Ch Pervaiz Elahi against the directives of Lahore High Court (LHC)

On the other hand, PTI President Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, who had been arrested by the Islamabad Police from Lahore on Friday was shifted to Attock Jail late at night F o r m e r P u n j a b c h i e f m i n i s t e r

Chaudhry Parvez Elahi has challenged his arrest under the MPO and filed a petition i n t h e I s l a m a b a d H i g h C o u r t t h r o u g h h i s lawyer Abdul Raziq Through the petition, Ch Pervaiz Elahi

sought to annul the arrest under the MPO shortly after the LHC granted him bail and directed the authorities against arresting him in any other case The petition further stated that the PTI president was being targeted for taking revenge on political grounds

The MPO order of September 1 is illegal, should be declared null and void and Parvez Elahi ordered to be released the petitioner requested On the other hand Pervez Elahi s wife has filed a contempt of court petition in the Lahore High Court for not shifting her husband home safely despite the LHC orders

The petition has made the DIG operations, DIG investigation and SP high court security parties in the petition The petition was filed on behalf of the former chief minister s wife Qaisara Elahi She has requested

the chief justice of the Lahore High Court to schedule the petition for hearing today

The PTI president and former chief minister who was rearrested shortly after the release order from the Lahore High Court in a corruption case, was shifted to Attock Jail later on Friday The Islamabad police arrested Elahi on Lahore’s Canal Road when he was heading towards his home following his release by the court

The PTI president was arrested under S e c t i o n 3 o f t h e M P O ( M a i n t e n a n c e o f P u b l i c O r d e r ) , t h e p o l i c e s a i d E a r l i e r o n Friday, the LHC ordered the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to release Elahi and also prevented his arrest in any ongoing or future cases Soon after he was shifted to Islamabad Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad or-

under MPO

dered his detention for a period of 15 days under 3MPO Former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan is already in the Attock Jail

On arrival a three-member team of doctors carried out medical examination of the former chief minister ‘Re-arrest of Pervez Elahi condemnable’

The Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) on Saturday said that the manhandling and re-arrest of PTI President Parvez Elahi against the directives of Lahore High Court s (LHC) is condemnable

The LHC on Friday had directed release of Elahi besides issuing orders restraining his possible arrest by any agency or preventive detention

Chairman Hassan Raza Pasha, “strongly condemned the manhandling and the way” in which Elahi was re-arrested as well as his confinement under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO)

It said the re-arrest was made while disregarding and non-complying the LHC s order wherein it had “categorically ordered not to re-arrest him in any case”

The PBC expressed concerns that the arrest raised questions about the rule of law and the power dynamics in Pakistan s political landscape

Stressing the necessity to obey and implement court orders and upholding the Constitution, the council stated that the courts “should take care while deciding political matters whether orders passed therein could be implemented or not

Pa ki s t a n’s to p s e r v i c e

e n te r p r i s e s p a r t i c i p ate i n C I F