PM RULES OUT NAWAZ SHARIF’S COMING BACK ‘UNDER ANY DEAL’ In partnership with
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Friday, 13 October, 2023 I 26 Rabi ul Awwal, 1445
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REJECTS NOTION CARETAKER SETUP COULD BE LIKENED TO 90S ‘KAKAR FORMULA’ WHERE BOTH PM, PRESIDENT WERE FORCED TO QUIT
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Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 103 I 8 Pages I Islamabad Edition
SAYS IF NAWAZ SHARIF RETURNS AND TAKES PART IN POLITICS, HE WILL HAVE TO FACE LEGAL OBSTACLES
STRESSES HEGEMONIC DESIGNS OF INDIA NEEDED TO BE CURTAILED AS THIS COUNTRY IS TURNING INTO HELL FOR MINORITIES
Nawaz Sharif arrives in Jeddah from London
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JEDDAH: The PML-N supremo and former prime minister Mian Nawaz Sharif arrived in Jeddah from London early Thursday. He will stay in Saudi Arabia for week and perform Umrah. The former premier was accompanied by family members and close aides. The PML-N supremo then will fly to Dubai on Oct 17 or 18. After a threeday stay, he will travel for Pakistan as part of the party plan. Sharif will reach Pakistan by a special plane. Sources said that the flight carrying Nawaz Sharif would be branded “Umeed-e-Pakistan” which can carry approximately 150 passengers. The former premier, along with party members and journalists, is scheduled to leave Dubai for Pakistan on Oct 21. The special flight will land in Islamabad from Dubai before proceeding to Lahore where Sharif will address a gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan. STAFF REPORT
ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Thursday dispelled the impression that Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) Supremo Nawaz Sharif was returning to Pakistan under any deal with the interim government. “The caretaker government has ‘no soft corner’ for PML-N or any other political party…How can a caretaker government strike such a deal,” he said in an interview with digital media platform, WE (World Echo) News. The prime minister was re-
sponding to a question relating to the PML-N chief’s homecoming who flew from London to Saudi Arabia with his announcement to land in Pakistan on October 21. Kakar pointed out that Nawaz Sharif left the country as per the court decision “under the nose of Imran Khan’s government, and not the caretaker setup”. However, he said that if Nawaz Sharif returns and takes part in politics, he will have to face legal obstacles. “The answers to these legal questions lie in legal remedies,” he said. PM Kakar said any leader be it Imran Khan, Asif Ali Zardari, or Nawaz Sharif, everyone would have to seek their legal remedy as per their case sce-
nario. He said Pakistan was facing the formation of “regimental camps” and the country had been turned into a fighting ground for political positions. He rejected the notion that the caretaker setup could be likened to the 90s ‘Kakar formula’ where both Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Ghulam Ishaq Khan were forced to quit on the proposal of then army chief General Waheed Kakar to make way for fresh election. “This comparison is apples and oranges. It is out of context because in our case, the stint of the normal parliament led to its retirement and we are part of the constitutional continuation where leaders of the House and the Opposition agreed upon my
Political stability paramount to economic development: Shehbaz ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan’s sustainable economic development is incumbent upon its political stability as both are mutually inclusive. Cash-strapped Pakistan’s $350 billion economy is in meltdown with low growth, a weak currency, and skyrocketing prices, with those with less incomes feeling the most pain. Currently, a caretaker setup is at the helm of affairs with limited powers. It will stay in place till the country sees general elections, which is the interim government’s primary responsibility. The polls are likely to be held by the end of January next year, according to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). In his address to traders in Lahore on Wednesday, Shehbaz — whose government’s term ended in August — said: “When the traders’ shop runs, it helps move Pakistan.” “If the economy is stable then development and prosperity will come with it. The country needs economic and political stability,” the
former prime minister added. Reiterating his stance, the ex-premier claimed that his government’s members decided to “compromise their political stake” to “save the state”. “We did not care about politics when we were in power for 16 months. Had we not saved the state, then our politics would have been buried,” Shehbaz, the younger brother of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, said. Slamming the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) without naming the party, Shehbaz said his government faced
sit-ins and threats every day. “Abusive language was used [against us]. The society was polarised. But in order to move forward, we need to end this divide,” he said. Talking about Nawaz’s return, Shehbaz said the country would begin the road to progress under the PML-N supremo — the three-time former prime minister. Nawaz is set to return to Pakistan on October 21, with the PMLN gearing up for his welcome. Nawaz is set to address a gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan upon arrival.
Pak-Russia shipping service confronts impediments as banks fearful of opening LCs g
UNDER AGREEMENT, PAYMENTS ARE CONDUCTED THROUGH LOCAL BANKING CHANNEL IN CHINESE YUAN, STREAMLINING TRADE PROCESS PROFIT
NEWS DESK
Trade relations between Pakistan and Russia face obstacles as Pakistani banks exhibit reluctance to facilitate the opening of Letters of Credit (LCs) for cargo under the recently established direct shipping service. This critical development, initiated in May this year, is the result of an agreement between Pak Shaheen (Private) Limited and Russian express liner service Neco Line, designed to provide Pakistani products immediate access to the Russian market. Under the agreement, payments are conducted through the local banking channel in Chinese yuan, offering a streamlined approach to conducting trade. According to a report by The News, Pakistani banks are hesitant or even fearful to open LCs for the cargo under the direct shipping service, given the ongoing geopolitical complexities between the two nations.
One source stated that banks can pay in Chinese currency yuan and Russia accepts it as per the arrangement, devised for this shipping service between the two countries. However, banks are not showing the kind of facilitation, which is required to boost the trade with Russia. Abdullah Farrukh, the CEO of Pak Shaheen confirmed the lack of facilitation on the part of banks and expressed the need to resolve these issues to unlock the full potential of this direct shipping service. While he acknowledged some improvement in bilateral trade since the service’s initiation, he stressed the vast untapped potential of the Russian market for Pakistani exports. Farrukh noted that Russia’s interest in purchasing textiles, garments, yarn, towels, leather, kinnow, potatoes, and other goods from Pakistan presents a significant opportunity for industries in cities like Karachi, Faisalabad, and Sialkot to substantially increase their exports
name,” he said. There has been no interference from any institution in our case, he said. On general polls, he said necessary security and administrative arrangements were in place. He said the caretaker government in collaboration with the Election Commission was in the process of the finalization of the required measures. On the expulsion of Afghan refugees, the prime minister said the action was being taken only against unregistered foreign nationals and over one million illegal aliens. The government’s objective, he said, was to regulate the movement of unregistered foreign nationals through proper process.
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IMF forecasts Pakistan’s fiscal deficit to hit 7.6% of GDP, slightly above govt’s target g
EVEN IF PROVINCES CONTRIBUTE RS600 BILLION TO OFFSET THE FEDERAL DEFICIT, IMF'S ESTIMATE STILL EXCEEDS GOVERNMENT'S BUDGETARY GOAL BY ABOUT 0.6 PERCENT PROFIT
NEWS DESK
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has forecasted Pakistan’s fiscal deficit for the current fiscal year at 7.6 percent of GDP, approximately 1.1 percent higher than the federal government’s target of 6.5 percent. The IMF’s fiscal monitor, released during the annual meetings of the IMF and the World Bank in Marrakesh, Morocco, also predicts a gradual decline in Pakistan’s fiscal deficit in the coming years, reaching 6.9 percent of GDP in FY25, 5.4 percent in FY26, 4.4 percent in FY27, and 4.4 percent by FY28. However, the actual trajectory of this decline is contingent on changing economic and political conditions, both globally and domestically, as well as the assumption that the next government will maintain fiscal consolidation efforts. Pakistan had initially set the overall fiscal deficit for the current year at Rs6.9 trillion, equivalent to 6.5 percent of GDP, with the expectation that provinces would contribute a Rs600 billion surplus to reduce the federal deficit, initially estimated at Rs7.5 trillion or 7.1 percent of GDP. Even when considering the government’s projected Rs600 billion cash surplus from provincial governments to offset the federal deficit, the IMF’s estimate still exceeds the government’s budgetary goal by about 0.6 percent. The IMF’s projection is consistent with its previous estimate from July, which was established as part of a $3 billion Standby Arrangement (SBA) with the previous authorities for the nine months ending in March next year. It’s worth noting that while the IMF and Pakistan’s authorities have differing assessments of the primary deficit (the gap between revenues and expenditures, excluding interest payments) for the last fiscal year ending in June 2023, they both agree on the primary balance for the current fiscal year.
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PTI ASKS ECP TO FOCUS ON ELECTIONS INSTEAD OF TARGETING IMRAN KHAN
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Friday, 13 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
NEWS
ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
HE Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has asked the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to fulfill its legal and constitutional obligations to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections within the constitutionally stipulated time instead targeting Imran Khan through a malicious agenda. The PTI spokesperson issued a statement condemning the ECP’s extraordinary eagerness and enthusiasm to speedily decide the politically-motivated, fabricated, and false cases against the PTI chairman. He said that PTI will never accept
any illegal decision or action against its chairman by the ECP. The PTI spokesperson also accused the ECP of playing the role of the main puppet in deviating from the constitution and killing democracy in the country. He reminded that the election watcher’s bias against PTI and Chairman Imran Khan is evident from its unconstitutional and biased actions during the last 17 months. The PTI spokesperson emphasized that the sole constitutional responsibility of the electoral body is to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections within the constitutionally stipulated time. However, the commission failed miserably in playing its constitutional role in this regard.
LHC asks Lahore DC to decide on PTI’s Liberty Chowk rally by today LAHORE
The PTI spokesperson also criticized the ECP for turning its back on its constitutional responsibility to conduct elections in the constitutional period and focusing all its attention on the minus Imran Khan agenda, which is a political and baseless case against the Chairman Tehreek-e-Insaf on behalf of the Election Commission. He said that the ECP’s speeding up of the action in this case is a link in this chain. The PTI spokesperson further said that the commission wants to achieve the goals through a meaningless case of contempt of the commission after the targets were not fully achieved in the Toshashana case. However, he made it clear that PTI was not afraid of such unconstitutional and unethical
US envoy Donald Blome visits Mohenjodaro
MOHENJODARO Staff RepoRt
US ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome, along with members of the ambassadorial staff, on Thursday visited Mohenjodaro, ruins of an ancient civilization. He was given a warm reception on arrival. Sindhi Ajrak and a cap were gifted to him. The US ambassador and members of his delegation watched stupas besides going round different areas of historical interest such as DK Area and Great Bath. They also visited the museum. Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Blome said he had heard of these ruins before. “And now after watching them, I am feeling really excited,” he said, added, “Today I have come to know that people of this 5,000-years-old civilization were so advanced even in those times.”
that PTI will never accept any illegal and unconstitutional decision or action of the ECP against the party chairman.
Asad Umar terms SC verdict on Practice and Procedure Act ‘correct’ ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday directed the Lahore Deputy Commissioner (DC) to decide on giving permission to the PTI for its rally at Liberty Chowk by Friday (today). Justice Raheel Kamran Sheikh heard the petition filed by Advocate Azeemullah Khan, seeking permission for the party’s public gathering at the Liberty Chowk on October 15. Additional Advocate General (AAG) Ghulam Sarwar Nahang represented the Punjab government in the court. During the hearing, the judge asked the AAG as to what was the issue. “What makes you stop the PTI from holding the rally. Please decide by tomorrow whether the party is allowed to hold the event or not,” he said, adding, “Will you allow or not? And if the answer is in negative, give reasons for that.” AAG replied that he would ask the DC to submit a report in this regard. Justice Sheikh asked Nahang why should not the court summon the DC? Expressing displeasure over the absence of petitioner’s senior lawyer, the court adjourned the case’s hearing until Friday (today). On Tuesday the PTI had approached the Lahore High Court, seeking the court order to the authorities to permit the party to go ahead with planned rally at Lahore’s Liberty Chowk.
tactics based on political revenge and prejudice before and will not be afraid now. The PTI spokesperson also announced
Staff RepoRt
Former federal minister Asad Umar Thursday termed the Supreme Court’s verdict on the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act 2023 correct. Replying to journalists questions during a media talk here on Thursday, “After the Supreme Court’s judgement, it is better to ask whether Nawaz Sharif will come or not.” He said to the journalist who asked a question about the return of Nawaz Sharif: “Why is Shehbaz Sharif happy after the Supreme Court’s verdict? This is my innocent question from you.” The journalist said to him there was one court judgement that both PTI and Shehbaz Sharif were happy with it. “The PTI chairman is in jail in the cypher case while you have got relief,” Asad Umar was asked another question. “The accusation in the cypher case is that those
who received it did not use it properly. We, however, believe that we used it according to the law. The cipher is moved among four persons including the prime minister, foreign minister, army chief and the DG ISI,” he replied. “Where did the planning minister come from into this? Only my name has been mentioned in the case,” he added. “Will you too go to a TV programme as Usman Dar and Sadaqat Abbasi did?” “If I had to do this, I would have done it,” Asad Umar said. Meanwhile, Asad Umar filed a petition in an antiterrorism court in Islamabad for acquittal in the election commission attack case. Defence lawyer Sardar Masroof filed the acquittal plea on behalf of Asad Umar. “No evidence was found against Asad Umar. The court’s valuable time should not be wasted. Asad Umar should be discharged from the case,” he pleaded. The acquittal plea was filed in the court of ATC judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain.A
Teachers urge PM, Education Minister to send ‘wedlock teachers’ bill’ for President’s assent ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
More than two months have passed since the Senate had passed the Islamabad wedlock teachers’ bill for their permanent absorption in FDE schools, but the bill is yet to see the light of the day as it has reportedly mysteriously gone missing in the corridors of the Prime Minister’s Office and is yet to be sent to the Aiwan-e-Sadr for President’s signature. “This is mysterious, shocking and quite irritating that at a time when a number of bills passed by the National Assembly and the Senate have been signed by the President and incorporated as Act of Parliament, a simple bill related to the ‘welfare and protection of family life’ of 300 teachers on deputation passed by the both the Houses is not yet signed by President Arif Alvi,’ said one of the lady teachers under wedlock.Earlier, the Prime Minister’s Office had sent the bill to the Ministry of Law for comment despite knowing that a bill is usually sent to the Law Ministry for comment before its passage, not afterwards. This delayed the bill and finally, the Law Ministry returned it to the PM Office with the observation that the bill
was ‘fine’ and since both the houses of the Parliament had unanimously passed it there was no need for the Ministry’s comment. Despite the Law Ministry’s clear observation the bill was again kept and not routed to the President House. Meanwhile, the Caretaker Prime Minister left for the UNO. Now even more than a week after Prime Minister’s return, the bill has not yet been sent to the President House and the teachers, mostly lady teachers working for years in Islamabad’s schools on wedlock are keenly awaiting when it would finally be sent to the President House as it is directly linked with their family life and future of their kids. According to a senior official in the PM Office, the Prime Minister is not aware of what is going on and why the teachers of Islamabad have been suffering because of some bureaucrat or ‘hidden hand’ in his office. Had the Prime Minister or even Education Minister any knowledge of this unnecessary delay they would have taken serious action against those responsible, said the source. The interim government’s Minister for Education Madad Ali Sindhi is a kind-hearted man and has recently prioritized the issues of the daily wage teachers assuring them that they would not be removed. This was also echoed in Monday’s meeting of the Senate Committee on Education chaired by Senator Irfanul Haq Siddiqui. The “Protection of Family Life & Wedlock Bill 2023” is related to the life of 300 lady teachers in various schools of FDE or he would personally follow it and get it moved to the President House for further action and is no less important than the daily wage teachers case, said another lady teacher. These teachers have been running from pillar to post pleading with every government not to repatriate them to their parent departments as their families are settled here in Islamabad and going back to their native towns would mean a complete breakdown of their family life. After their incessant struggle the bill was moved with the consent of all the political parties and both houses of the Parliament passed it.
Seven ‘dead’ as car plunges into canal in Mianwali MIANWALI
Staff RepoRt
Seven people including a folksinger Sharafat Ali were ‘dead’ after the car they were travelling in fell into a canal on Thursday. Rescue sources said seven people were travelling in the ill-fated car when it plunged into a canal near Paka Kanjhera in Mianwali. Singer Sharafat Ali was going to his home after attending a marriage ceremony when the accident took place. After getting the information, rescue teams reached the spot and took out the bodies and vehicle from the canal. The bodies have been shifted to DHQ Hospital. Earlier in August, last year, four members of a family had drowned in the water of a mountainous drain as they were trying to build an embankment to store water for their fields near Gajoji village. Ghulam Rasool, his two daughters and daughter-in-law were building an embankment when their tractor fell into a sevenfoot-deep ditch. Ghulam Rasool, Jind Wadi Bibi, 14, Basheeran Bibi, 16, and Latifan Bibi, 20, drowned. A rescue team fished out the bodies and handed them over to the family.
CPEC’s 2nd phase: Boosting Pakistan’s digital transformation PESHAWAR
aziz BuneRi
Pakistan’s digital transformation, as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is set to revolutionise business landscape and attract significant domestic and foreign investments, according to Adnan Khan, a socioeconomic development specialist at the CPEC Centre of Excellence. Khan highlights the transition from CPEC’s initial phase (2015–2020), which primarily addressed urgent challenges like
the energy crisis and connectivity issues. The 2nd phase of CPEC brings a broader focus, emphasising industry collaboration, export diversification, and growth in technology and other sectors. Key to this transformation is the establishment of four new working groups under CPEC, focusing on digitisation in the industrial and agricultural sectors and the development of information technology and science and technology sectors. The rapid global advancements in technology open up new business opportunities and serve as a catalyst for
productive growth. Pakistan have potential in both conventional and digital realms. An example of this transformation is the extension of the cross-border optical fiber from GilgitBaltistan to Karachi and Gwadar, facilitated under CPEC’s second phase. Additionally, China’s support for projects related to artificial intelligence signifies Pakistan’s intent to harness these advancements. China’s digital economy plays a crucial role in economic recovery and growth, suggesting that developing countries like Pakistan could benefit by
taking a page from China’s book in unleashing digital innovation. Kaukab Ikram Mughal, an honorary secretary at the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, emphasizes the global shift towards a paperless and digital environment and recommends that Pakistan follows suit. However, he acknowledges the challenge of inadequate digital infrastructure in Pakistan and calls for increased investment in digital infrastructure, including fiber-optic networks and improved mobile network coverage.
Protest in Islamabad against ban on DFP in IIOJK by Modi regime ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
A protest demonstration was organized in Islamabad, today, by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference Azad Jammu and Kashmir (APHC-AJK) chapter and Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Cell to register protest against the ban imposed by the Narendra Modi-led Indian government on Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian government banned the DFP, headed by incarcerated Shabbir Ahmed Shah, on the 5th of this month declaring it an illegal organization. According to Kashmir Media Service,
the protest held outside the Indian High Commission was led by APHC-AJK Information Secretary Imtiaz Wani. Raja Najabat Hussain, Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Self-determination Movement International (JKSDMI); Sarwar Hussain Gilgiti Director of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Cell Raja Khan Afsar Khan, Sardar Asim Abbasi, President of All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference Islamabad; APHCAJK leaders, Sanaullah Dar, Haji Sultan Butt, Advocate Parvez Ahmed, Engineer Mehmood, Raja Khadim Hussain, Manzoor Ahmad Dar, Dawood Yousafzai, Mushtaq Ahmed Butt, Zahid Ashraf, Syed Mushtaq Gilani, Syed Aijaz Rehmani, Muhammad Ashraf Dar, Sheikh Abdul Majid, Muhammad Shafi Dar, Mian
Muzaffar, Shaukat Hussain Butt, Khurshid Ahmad Mir, Kifayat Hussain Rizvi, Gulshan Ahmed, Zahid Safi, Adeel Mushtaq Wani, Qazi Imran, Malik Aslam, Khalid Shabbir and a large number of political and social leaders participated in it. The protesters carried placards and banners with slogans against Indian state terrorism in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing on the occasion, the speakers strongly condemned the ban on the DFP by Narendra Modi’s Hindutva government. They said Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally-recognized disputed territory and Kashmiris are struggling for their UN-acknowledged right to self-determination. They said the DFP is fighting a peaceful struggle against
the Indian occupation of Jammu and Kashmir so banning it is completely unjustified and illegal. The speakers said that the international community should take cognizance of the atrocities being perpetrated by India and Israel on the oppressed Kashmiris and Palestinians and should play a role in the resolution of these disputes. They said the BJP government will never succeed to achieve its nefarious designs by banning freedom-loving organizations and the Kashmiris will continue to raise their voice against India’s illegal occupation of their homeland. It is worth mentioning here that the DFP Chairman, Shabbir Ahmad Shah, has been under illegal detention following his arrest in July 2017. He is presently lodged in New Delhi’s infamous Tihar Jail.
SHC hears plea seeking judicial commission on Sakrand killings KARACHI
Staff RepoRt
The Sindh High Court on Thursday heard a petition seeking judicial inquiry and arrest of culprits of recent killings in Mari Jalbani village near Sakrand. Four villagers were killed and scores of others including women were injured in the firing incident in Mari Jalbani village near Sakrand in Nawabshah district. Barrister Salahuddin Ahmed, Syed Haider Imam Rizvi, Advocate Tahmasp Rasheed Razvi and Zulfiqar Jalbani and others appeared in the court hearing today. The petition, filed by Advocate Tahmasp Rasheed Razvi, had pleaded to the court to appoint a high court judge to oversee the investigation, aiming to ensure transparency and impartiality in the proceedings. The Sindh government and the Rangers lawyers sought time from the court to submit their reply in the case. The court directed to provide copies of the petition to other parties. The court adjourned further hearing of the case till October 26. Four men were shot dead and at least five others including women sustained injuries in a raid by the law enforcement agencies in Mari Jalbani village on September 28.
Friday, 13 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
ATC SEEKS REPORT FROM JAIL SUPERINTENDENT DETAILING STEPS ON PTI CHAIRMAN’S SECURITY NEWS
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ISLAMABAD
Staff report
N Anti-Terrorism Court in the federal capital sought a detailed report from the Adiala jail superintendent on the security provided to the PTI chairman currently imprisoned in the prison. The orders were passed by the ATC judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain as he conducted hearing of cases concerning the judicial complex attack and the protest outside the ECP office on Thursday. Both the PTI chairman and
party leader Asad Umar are nominated in these cases. Jan Muhammad, the defence counsel, submitted a plea, seeking issuance of production orders for the PTI chairman with an argument that his client was on bail in the aforementioned cases that meant the trial couldn’t be held within the jail premises. It’s a state responsibility to look into the arrangements for transporting the accused from the prison to the court, he said, adding that police were responsible for the presenting an accused before the court. According to the defence counsel, the imprisoned PTI chairman would have to be
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presented before the ATC court for trial. The police are bound to follow the orders if court directs them to do so. However, Prosecutor Raja Naveed was of the opinion that the court would have to keep in mind the prevailing security matters and reminded that several cases had been registered in the past in connection with the PTI chairman’s appearance before judiciary. The PTI has been claiming that the jailed leader was facing life threats but is now calling for presenting him before the court, Raja pointed to the discrepancy in the former ruling party’s stance while requesting the judge to ask the jail superintendent for a
Uzbekistan American Business Council Pakistan extends warm Insetatofirst, host UNWTO General Assembly welcome to US consul general Conrad Tribble ISLAMABAD
KARACHI
Staff CorreSpondent
Staff report
Pakistan - October 9, 2023 - The American Business Council Pakistan (ABC) hosted an exclusive welcome and CEO Roundtable session on "Diplomacy and Business Relations: US Support to Pakistan‘s Business and Economic Environment" for U.S. Consul General Conrad Tribble and his team in Karachi. The Executive Committee of ABC, along with about 20 CEOs and senior management of ABC’s member companies, were in attendance. Mr. Jamshed Safdar, President of the American Business Council Pakistan, kicked off the event with a warm welcome address. "We are honored to host U.S. Consul General Conrad Tribble and his team. Their presence underscores the importance of strengthening ties between American businesses and U.S. Consulate Karachi. Today's session promises to be a catalyst for valuable partnerships and shared opportunities." Following Mr. Safdar’s remarks, U.S. Consul General Conrad Tribble spoke about the important relationship between the United States and Pakistan. "Pakistan is a key partner for the United
States, and events like these provide us with a platform to connect, share perspectives, and explore avenues for mutual growth. I am excited to engage with the American business community and look forward to building stronger bonds between our nations." The United States has been a leading investor in Pakistan for the past 20 years and is Pakistan’s largest export market, with potential for further growth. In 2021, the United States
Maryam Nawaz’s son Junaid Safdar confirms divorce LAHORE
Staff report
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President and Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz’s son, Junaid Safdar, confirmed Thursday that he and his wife had divorced, more than two years after they tied the knot. “News about my divorce is true,” Safdar said in an Instagram story. The couple got married in August 2021, with their wedding functions taking place in London and Pakistan, since PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif was in the British capital in self-exile. The couple stayed away from the media spotlight during their time together. “This is an entirely private matter and I request the media to respect our privacy,” the seasoned politician’s son said in the story.“I hope with this decision we find our peace In Shaa Allah. I will speak no further on this matter.” “I WISH HER WELL,” JUNAID ADDED. Soon after the announcement, Junaid removed all his pictures with his former wife on Instagram. Who is Ayesha? Ayesha is the daughter of Saifur Rehman Khan, the former head of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and a multimillionaire businessman based in Qatar with business interests in Pakistan, Qatar, and Middle Eastern countries. Ayesha was born and raised in Qatar where she attended the British primary and secondary schools, passing O and A levels with distinction. For her higher education, she moved to London where she was given a place at the renowned University College London (UCL).
imported nearly $5.3 billion in Pakistani goods - more than Pakistan’s second and third largest countries of export combined. Overall, U.S.-Pakistan trade stood at over $9 billion in 2022, up from $6.8 billion in 2020. The highlight of the event was a dynamic question-and-answer session, affording ABC member companies a unique opportunity to engage directly with the Consul General and his team. The evening concluded with a
convivial Hi Tea. ABOUT THE AMERICAN BUSINESS COUNCIL PAKISTAN: The American Business Council Pakistan (ABC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic growth, trade, and investment between the United States and Pakistan. ABC brings together a diverse community of American businesses, promoting collaboration and facilitating opportunities in the region.
Nadra chairman admits staff’s involvement in issuance of fake CNICs ISLAMABAD
Staff report
National Database Registration Authority (Nadra) Chairman Lieutenant General Munir Afsar informed senators that some of his organisation’s staff were involved in the issuance of fake Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). The Nadra chief made the revelation while addressing the Senate Committee on Interior when it took up the issue of fake CNICs, availability of citizens’ family data in the black market and issuance of multiple SIMs on a single CNIC, which are being used in illegal activities. The meeting was chaired by Senator Mohsin Aziz. The Nadra chairman informed the lawmakers that action was taken against the employees engaged in any form of illegal activity, with around 84 officials suspended, so far. “However, employees escape punishment due to the absence of a law dealing with privacy matters,” he told the committee. The Senate panel recommended modern measures to address these issues. Separately, the Pakistan Telecommunication
Authority announced that five people were arrested in a joint raid with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Circle against a mobile phone company franchisee located on Kohat Road, Peshawar. The authority said that the suspects were involved in issuing of illegal SIMs against Afghan passports. “Reportedly, the franchisee was being run by an Afghan national and the activated SIMs were being sold to Afghan nationals for Rs.3000 each,” said the PTA. Apart from this, five laptops and eight mobile phones, containing scanned passport data, were also seized The PTA said it was the 12th such raid of the year. Following an increase in terrorism incidents, Pakistan has given a November 1 deadline to all illegal Afghans living in Pakistan to go back to their homeland. Sarfraz Bugti, the caretaker interior minister, said that Pakistan’s crackdown on illegal Afghan immigrants is necessary because Afghan nationals have carried out 14 out of 24 suicide bombings in Pakistan this year, and eight of the 11 militants involved in recent attacks on two Pakistani military installations were Afghans.
PM rules out Nawaz Sharif’s coming back under any deal CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
On relations with India, he said the radicalized RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) mindset of the ruling Indian party and the Kashmir dispute were the main hurdles in the maintenance of good ties. “The situation between Pakistan and India needs to be improved, however, realistically at present, there is no such possibility,” he said. PM Kakar said the hegemonic designs of India needed to be curtailed as the country was turning into hell for its minorities, including Muslims, Sikhs, and others. Asked about any possibility of
recognition of Israel, he said, “There are no such deliberations going on.” Pakistan considers Israel an “oppressor” and stands with the rights of Palestinians to their existence and return to their land, he said. On Pakistan’s economic stability, he said the country for the first time witnessed a reversal of the value of the dollar with a consistent descent of about Rs 40-45. He said the continuation of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SFIC) would lead to sustainability. He dismissed the impression that the army had taken over the mining sector on the SFIC platform. “The army’s role is a stop-gap arrangement to run the
matters and at SFIC, it is providing impetus in the facilitation process,” he said. He emphasized the need for capacity-building of civil institutions as a pathway for a viable state economically. In Balochistan, he termed security, governance, scarcity of resources, and mismanagement as the main challenges. He recalled that during the meeting of the apex committee held in Quetta, it was revealed that hundreds of ghost schools and health units existed in the province. “Such mismanagement has led to making a few billionaires but leaving the rest of the population deprived including the common Balochs, Pashtuns, and Hazaras,” he said.
Three dead, 34 injured in Swat road accidents SWAT
Syed Shahabuddin
At least three persons were killed including a woman and 34 others sustained critical injuries in different incidents occurred district on Thursday, According to Kabal Police SHO Rahim Khan, one of the vehicles (Hiace) of a marriage procession going on the way to village Painda Shah from village Aligrama fell into a gorge after the driver lost control of the steering. As a result, 29 people including women and children sustained injuries. The locals and rescue teams evacuated the injured to Civil Hospital Kabal and later the seriously injured were shifted to Saidu Sharif teaching Hospital where a woman identified as Mst Sultana succumbed to her injuries. On the other hand, Kalakot Police SHO Sharifullah Khan informed that 30-year-old Fazal Nawab and his father-in-law
Mohammad Sherin were cutting wood in the fields with a chainsaw in Sukhara area of Tehsil Matta. In the meanwhile, the chainsaw went out of Sherin’s hand and fell on his sonin-law neck. As a result his throat was cut and he died on the spot. In another incident, 48-eight-year-old Shah Jahan, a Saudi-born man, fell into a deep ditch and died in Damana area. The police shifted the dead body to hospital for post-mortem and medico-legal formalities. Apart from this, young Bakhti Rehman allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself in Shawar area of Matta Tehsil. He was rushed to hospital for immediate medical assistance and the police have registered a case and started the investigation into the incident. Similarly, five persons were injured when a pick-up loader van overturned in Nalkot area of Tehsil Matta. They were shifted to Matta Hospital for immediate medical assistance.
The 25th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is scheduled for October 16-20, 2023 in Samarkand. For the first time in history, Uzbekistan will host this important biennial gathering of member states and affiliate members of UNWTO. The event will bring together heads of government agencies, representatives of the tourism industry, and international business corporations engaged in the sector from around 159 countries. Heads of travel agencies from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Saudi Arabia, Albania, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Côte d’Ivoire, Guatemala, Haiti, Indonesia, Monaco, Niger, Pakistan, Panama, Portugal, Sierra Leone, Ukraine, Uruguay and Yemen are expected to attend in Samarkand. Uzbekistan has been admitted as a member of the Committee on Credentials of the UNWTO Executive Council for 2023-2027. This means that Uzbekistan can monitor compliance with the important decisions and documents adopted by the UNWTO Executive Council. Holding the General Assembly in Uzbekistan has the potential to open up new opportunities for raising the status of Uzbekistan in the international arena, and the country has expressed it is hoping to expand relations with international organisations and to promote its cultural and tourism potential. The issues of international cooperation in the field of tourism will be discussed at panel sessions. Several other large-scale conferences will take place within the framework of the sessions of the 25th General Assembly. The Investment Forum will present the facilities, regions, and projects with high investment potential in all regions of Uzbekistan to major foreign investors. The forum brings together global stakeholders, industry leaders and investors to explore opportunities in tourism and aims to demonstrate the favourable investment environment in Uzbekistan.
UoE pays tribute to teachers for determining future of society LAHORE
Staff report
In order to pay tribute to the teachers on International Teachers’ Day, a grand ceremony was held at the main Township Campus of the University of Education here on Thursday. Chief guest on the occasion was former Home Economics University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Kanwal Amin (TI) while University of Education Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Talat Naseer Pasha presided over the ceremony. Director Division of Education Prof Dr Ayaz Muhammad Khan, principals/directors and a large number of students were also present on this occasion. Addressing the ceremony, VC Prof Dr Talat Naseer Pasha said that it is undeniable fact that teachers are the nation builders, therefore teachers should be given respect at all levels. “Purpose of celebrating the day is to recognize the constructive role of teachers and their being the most important component of our society who determines future of the society”, he pointed out, adding the role of teachers and their importance in the betterment of the society cannot be neglected in any way. On the occasion, former Home Economics University VC and Educationist Prof Dr Kanwal Amin said that although no one can deny the important role of teachers, it is also important for a teacher to pay the right to this distinction by words and actions because the teacher is not only for the students but also the ideal figure for the entire society. “It is the teachers who give us awareness through education, teach us how to live despite adverse conditions of life, without the help of our teachers we can neither determine our destination nor can achieve destination”, he added.
IMF forecasts Pakistan’s fiscal deficit to hit 7.6% of GDP, slightly above govt’s target COUNTINUED FROM PAGE 01
The IMF also reports Pakistan’s gross government debt at 76.6 percent of GDP for FY23 and forecasts a decrease to 72.2 percent of GDP during the current fiscal year. Nevertheless, it remains significantly higher than the 60 percent limit set by the Fiscal Responsibility & Debt Limitation Act (FDRLA). Similarly, the net government debt is projected to be 71.6 percent of GDP for FY23, declining to 68.3 percent during the current year and gradually reaching 61.8 percent of GDP by FY28.
04 COMMENT
Eyeless in Gaza
Silence at slaughter
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International reaction once again exposes myth of Muslim unity
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S Israel prepared for what amounts to a slaughter of innocent Palestinians, the reaction of the West, led by the USA, showed why there is a Palestinian problem–the apparent impunity that Israel has for bad behaviour. However, at the same time, the peeps of condemnation from the Muslim world show that Muslim countries cannot put together a reaction, and are left scrambling. Israel, feeling itself under attack, has received the sort of support that will allow it to send ground forces into Palestinian after the initial air attacks, which have come in place of the more conventional artillery bombardment before a ground attack. The expressions of support seem to express acceptance of an Israeli right of response. While they condemn the attack by Hamas on Friday as ‘terrorism’, they express a support of Israeli actions that respond to this. This does seem to ignore all of the nuances in the situation. It seems to egg Israel on to commit exactly the sort of behaviour that it condemns, to encourage Israel to seek vengeance by slaughtering Palestinian women and children in Gaza. By backing Israel so blindly, Western governments may satisfy their domestic Zionist lobbies, but they do not bring the world any nearer to a just solution, one that will prevent such slaughter in the future. Jordan’s King Abdullah II, whose father Hussein II had recognized Israel in 1994, once again dusted off the old two-state solution, not realizing that not only had events left it behind, but Israeli attempts to change the demography of the Occupied territories, had made it virtually impossible to implement. His response shows the bankruptcy of the Muslim world. The waffling by Saudi Arabia, which had been on the verge of recognizing Israel, was accompanied by a deafening silence by Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition Commander-inChief Gen (retd) Raheel Sharif, who had justified his taking up the job by the ability of the IMCTC to handle any crisis, or the IMCTC hosts, Saudi Arabia. Muslim countries and their supposed collective voice, the OIC, have been reduced to making pleas for Israel to exercise restraint, something it has not done since coming into being amid the bloodshed and suffering of An-Nakba, the Catastrophe, as Palestinians call the ethnic cleansing of 1948. That, approach has not worked in the past, and there is no reason to suppose it will do so now.
The same old story
At Penpoint M A NIAZI
HE most striking thing about the latest attack by Israel on the Gaza Strip is that it has come after Israel has had casualties inflicted on it. Previous attacks came after missile attacks were launched, but even though there were few or no casualties, Israel would retaliate with air strikes. While the pretext was missile launchers, the strikes would include hitting residential buildings, schools and hospitals. There is no reason to believe that Israel will behave any differently. There is a loud international clamour for a ceasefire, but the head of the Israeli government, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has an overwhelming need to be seen as strong, and able to exact revenge. Netanyahu has also been on the right of Israeli politics, and his dependence on extreme-right parties for support makes it all the more important for him to show that he is a strong and effective guardian of the Israeli people. Behind Netanyahu’s needs are the Holocaust. Though World War II has been over for almost 80 years, Jews still recall how Hitler tried to wipe them out. In fact, it was that cataclysmic event that contributed to the creation of Israel. The position of Israel, as an American enclave in the Middle East, has made the Israel is even more worried about their security. That is why, very patiently, going back to the 1978 Camp David Accord, Israel has been making peace with Arab countries. That may be the reason for the attack by the Palestinians: Saudi Arabia is heading a list of about six nations that are about to recognise Israel. Saudi Arabia is at the head of the list. That has created a vibe that Pakistan is also going to recognize. There has been a shift in opinion, not in favour of recognition, as what the real reason for not recognizing. There is a general feeling that Pakistan is withholding recognition because Saudi Arabia is not recognising, and therefore if Saudi Arabia recognizes, there will be no reason for Pakistan not to. Saudi goodwill is necessary because of the financial help it has given over the years. In fact, that is one reason why Israel would like Saudi Arabia to recognize it, because of the clout it has not just among Arab countries, but in the entire Muslim world. A lot of countries are probably holding back from recognition because they do not wish to offend the Saudis. Against that is balanced not love for Israel, but a wish to please the USA. The USA has long been the primary supporter of Israel, and it has argued that it has been a US outpost in the Middle East, where it has helped protect its interests in the oil-rich region, and Netanyahu is not the first Israeli PM to have links with the USA, where he studied. Before was Golda Meir, whose Ukrainian parents have migrated to the USA, where she was brought up. The desire to please the USA might explain why there has been so much enthusiasm among the establishment for recognition. There was quite a strong movement during the Musharraf years, and on
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
Yousaf Nizami
one occasion he addressed the World Jewish Congress. This attitude seems to be the result of a failure to realize why Palestine and Israel matter to Pakistan. One reason is that Pakistan has traditionally seen the Kashmir issue as linked to the Palestine issue. This is not an ex-post facto explanation designed to justify support, but was clear at the very beginning. Back in 1948, when the UN was first seized of the matter, Pakistan played a leading role, not so much because of any Muslim solidarity, as because the Arab countries involved did not have the diplomatic expertise available. The similarities seen by Pakistan do not seem to have gone away with time. Both are the result, ultimately, of faulty British decolonization, and are thus unfinished business. Both involve illegal occupations. Both are UN disputes. Both involve a denial of the inalienable right of self-determination of a people. While refugees Palestinian abound, there is also a significant Kashmiri diaspora. At the same time, just as it can be argued that the Kashmir cause has been abandoned, by inaction over the 2022 ending of Kashmir’s special status, it seems that Saudi Arabia as well as other Arab countries, seem poised to end their diplomatic and moral support of the Palestinian cause. One outlier seems to be Iran, which not only reversed the Shah’s recognition of Israel (which took place in 1948 itself), but which has positioned itself as a champion of the Palestinian cause. While Palestinians are majority Sunni, Hezbollah in Lebanon follows Iran, and being also an Arab party, finds the Palestinian cause crucial to its positioning. Another factor is Saudi Arabia, which has a longstanding rivalry with Iran over leadership in the region. Iran has grown more and more strongly supportive of Palestine as it has increased its support of Hezbollah. The strength of its support for the Palestinians has also gone up as its antagonism to Saudi Arabia. There is also a theological reason for supporting
Joint Editor
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Executive Editor
International alliances are the best path for now RAMshA shAhId
HE 16th annual meeting of the AsiaPacific Space Cooperation Organisation (APSCO) held from 19 to 23 September 2023, under the theme of “Accelerating Space Economies through Regional Partnership”, explored new pathways to ensure significant transformation of the space programmes of all the member states. APSCO is a Beijing-based intergovernmental organization, which offers a cooperative framework to its member nations to mainstream the peaceful use of space as an economic engine. Such regional frameworks hold immense potential to provide much-needed impetus to Pakistan’s hitherto dilatory programme. The government of Pakistan envisioned a Space Programme 2040 in 2011, subsequently renamed Space Vision 2047, which underlies the space ambitions of the country. Embarking on its splendid space journey with the establishment of the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) in 1961, it was a moment of national pride and a remarkable achievement when Pakistan launched its first communication satellite Rehbar-1 in collaboration with NASA in June 1962. Unfortunately, for the past few decades, the space programme is lacking any visible progress and presenting a dismal picture. Thus, Programme 2040 is an attempt to rejuvenate the lost spirit of SUPARCO. In the early years, the country was collaborating with the USA to fulfil its longstanding space dream; however, the changing dynamics of the region brought it closer to China. Pakistan
As the commercial sector made 94 per cent of total satellite launches in 2022, encouraging private sector involvement in its space endeavours by granting licences will further resolve the financial constraints hindering PakistanÊs space journey.
shifted its focus towards China to amplify its space programme and both countries have been collaborating bilaterally since 1991. To enhance the space cooperation under the CPEC umbrella, China has already proposed a “silk space road” for converting the CPEC into a three-dimensional project comprising land, water and space partnership. SUPARCO and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) have also signed a space exploration agreement in 2019 to advance the cooperation. Pakistan can harness the benefits of the proposed Silk Space Road initiative, by enhancing cooperation through joint research projects, technology transfer especially satellite development and launching capabilities, and intelligence sharing in space science. Simultaneously, the expansion of research programmes offered under the CPEC to initiate space-related educational projects would improve the existing state of space education. Furthermore, the establishment of Special Technology Zones on the pattern of Special Economic Zones to promote partnerships between Chinese and Pakistani companies will further enhance Pakistan’s indigenous space capabilities. India founded the Indian Space and Research Organization in 1969 to join the space race; almost 8 years after Pakistan started its space mission, yet it is making incredible advancements. Contrarily, Pakistan is lagging far behind in the space race which is necessary to realize the goals of Space Vision 2047. Fostering cooperation in the domain will also be beneficial to optimize the space capabilities of Pakistan for satellite monitoring of natural disasters, land and resource surveying, and waste handling in a microgravity environment. Concurrently, this cooperation would help China expand its space market. There are projections that China will be the leader in space technology by 2040. Being number one in terms of orbital launches for the past few years, it has also developed tactical satellite capabilities. Chinese Beidou, an alternative to the USA’s Global Positioning System, is already being used in 165 countries and threatening
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GPS’s hegemony. As China is broadening and diversifying the horizon of cooperation from traditional to multidimensional, integrating its regional allies under Beidou in the near future has prospects of strengthening the capabilities mainly in intelligence, reconnaissance and navigation. However, will this cooperation alone get the space programme back on track without putting the house in order? Pakistan’s space history shows that one single issue is not responsible for the lag in Pakistan’s space quest. Rather, there are a wider and broader range of decadesold system failures. The change observed in the country’s priorities because of its security concerns raised by the geopolitical landscape caused huge space budget cuts. Apart from that some other adverse factors include the dearth of experts in the field of aeronautical science, lack of research culture and job opportunities, lack of legislation to promote private partnership in the space sector and scarcity of indigenous space infrastructure, which need to be addressed within the ambit of cooperation. Pakistan, grappling with its severe economic challenges, cannot afford to ivest hefty amounts in indigenous infrastructure for building capacity in the short term. Therefore, strengthening international collaboration in the field of space seems a more viable option. Space exploration has gained strategic significance because of its potential for diverse purposes. To reap the potential benefits of international collaboration in future, Pakistan needs indigenisation and for that, it should enact space legislation which comprehensively covers all aspects of space activities. As the commercial sector made 94 per cent of total satellite launches in 2022, encouraging private sector involvement in its space endeavours by granting licences will further resolve the financial constraints hindering Pakistan’s space journey. Deepening collaboration with China for future space projects will not only help to meet the goals of Space Programme 2040 but also take it to an advanced level.
Ramsha Shahid is a researcher at Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, Pakistan. She can be reached at info@casslhr.com
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the Palestinians, and that is the special place of Jerusalem in Islam, not just as the place from which the Holy Prophet (PBUH) journeyed to Heaven during the Meraj, but also as the first Qibla. It cannot be forgotten that there are three Harams in Islam, the Haram Sharif of Mecca, the Masjid Nabvi in Madina, and the Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. A Haram is a sanctuary, of which there are only three in the whole Muslim world. Al-Aqsa is also the Temple Mount, where the Tempe of Solomon was, and thus Ultra-Orthodox Jews want to take it over. It was an attempt to burn the mosque in 1969 which led to the formation of the OIC, which indicates the centrality of the Palestinian cause to the Islamic world as a whole. It is perhaps important for an Ajami country like Pakistan that this is not an Arab cause, but a religious one. One of the problems with the current attacks is that it is difficult to see why they were launched. It is simply not a matter of creating terror. The bankruptcy of the terror tactic has been illustrated often enough in history, and most recently by the 9/11 attacks. Terror lacks a clear military-political objective, which is essential to any military operation. It is to the credit of Hamas that they seem to have achieved surprise over the Israeli Defence Forces, but it is also becoming clear that they had no real follow-up, either military or political. A lot of brave Palestinians have been laying down their lives, to what end? If the move was to prevent recognition by Saudi Arabia, it will probably not more than cause a delay. It also exposes the entire ruling elite of the Muslim world as unwilling to walk the talk. All are content to leave the Palestinian people in the same sort of limbo as the Kashmiri people, the Rohingya. The list is long. The inaction by the Muslim world should tell the Palestinian people something they probably already know: they are on their own. Terror is the last resort of the powerless. It is an attempt to restore the balance against the powerful. That almost eight decades have passed since the Holocaust can be seen from the fact that Jews are no longer the underdogs.
The inaction by the Muslim world should tell the Palestinian people something they probably already know: they are on their own. Terror is the last resort of the powerless. It is an attempt to restore the balance against the powerful.
Space Programme 2040: Prospects for Pak-China collaboration Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi
Friday, 13 October, 2023
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The writer is a member of staff
Editor’s mail
Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan. E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively
Low interest rate on forex accounts
I have maintained foreign currency accounts with Habib Bank Pakistan for over 20 years. I want to highlight that HBL is currently offering an interest rate of around 1% on my Pound Sterling and US Dollar accounts. In contrast, the international market offers an interest rate of approximately 4.5% for Pound Sterling and US Dollars. I am puzzled by why banks in Pakistan are offering such low interest rates on forex accounts. Is it possible that the banks are making significant profits by maintaining large interest margins? I suggest that the State Bank of Pakistan examine this matter and ensure that forex depositors receive market-based interest rates on their forex bank accounts. EJAZ AHMAD MAGOON DUBAI
SEPCO operation
IT has been more than a week since SEPCO launched a grand operation against electricity theft, which has caused the company losses of nearly $59 billion. While this move is commendable, it should be directed against those who facilitated illegal connections and provided the public with ways to obtain bogus connections for a small fee. Those within SEPCO are the main victims of electricity theft because the public was not aware of alternative connections after the installation of cable wires. This problem arises from corrupt metre readers, linemen, and other department personnel who are involved in these activities. This does not imply that all SEPCO employees are corrupt, but the majority of them are engaged in these reprehensible acts. This operation would have been more praiseworthy if it had targeted corrupt SEPCO officers. Unfortunately, this move has resulted in the loss of innocent lives in various towns. Therefore, this operation should either target corrupt SEPCO officers, from metre readers and linemen to other officials, or it should be halted immediately. SEPCO must eradicate corruption within its ranks to put an end to such illegal connections, or it will continue to negatively impact the common people. SHAHZAD PAHHWAR SUKKUR
Hostel life
HOSTEL life is undoubtedly challenging, yet it provides an opportunity for personal growth and adaptation. First and foremost, it teaches you how to manage everything, including financial management, handling daily chores, and making compromises. Some people regard their hostel as a ‘home away from home.” On the flip side, some students find it challenging to adjust to hostel life. Indeed, living away from your loved ones can be emotionally challenging because it reminds us of the deep connection we share and the importance of their presence in our lives. Overall, life in the hostel is a journey of personal growth and learning. However, people from different regions live under one roof and represent their cultures, traditions, and languages to each other. It promotes understanding and tolerance. Ultimately, living away from the comfort of home pushes young adults to step out of their comfort zones and find innovative solutions to everyday problems. AREEBA BATOOL QURESHI ISLAMABAD
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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk
COMMENT 05
Pakistan’s Brain Drain Dilemma: Navigating the Exodus
Friday, 13 October, 2023
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It’s not inevitable
MuhaMMad ali MeMon
N an era of globalization, the issue of Brain Drain transcends borders, affecting nations worldwide. The migratory flow of highly skilled individuals in quest of greener pastures is a global challenge that requires attention. Notably, over 280 million people live outside their country of birth, accounting for 3.6 percent of the global population, according to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). There has been a considerable brain drain in Pakistan over the years owing to the emigration of its skilled workforce to foreign shores. This phenomenon has had a profound impact on the economy and development prospects of the nation. In line with World Bank data, Pakistan has experienced a net migration rate of -1.5 percent every year, indicating a significant outflow of talent. Thus, it is a nation that grapples with its own set of challenges related to brain drain. To truly comprehend Pakistan’s situation it is crucial to examine the causes, impacts, and potential solutions associated with this issue. CAUSES OF BRAIN DRAIN IN PAKISTAN
1. ECONOMIC EXODUS: Pakistan faces an economic exodus as its skilled workforce seeks higher wages and better opportunities abroad. Economic instability, inflation, and currency devaluation act as a driving force for this exodus. In addition to that, professionals in Pakistan grapple with a narrow and conservative job market and have limited prospects for career advancement, prompting them to seek better opportunities abroad. 2. EDUCATIONAL EXILE: The phenomenon of Brain Drain is exacerbated by Pakistani scholars seeking advanced education and research opportunities overseas. Pakistan has an enduring tradition of producing talented graduates, but a large number opt to pursue their careers abroad. 3. POLITICAL PERIL: Pakistan’s political landscape has been characterized by a series of unpredictable phases, featuring frequent changes in leadership and a lack of political harmony. These factors have given rise to uncertainty about the country’s future prospects, which has influenced the decisions made by highly skilled professionals. Furthermore, the pervasive spectre of corruption across diverse sectors has acted as a formidable obstacle (Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index consistently ranks Pakistan with a
score below 30), hindering economic progress and demotivating these professionals from remaining within the country’s borders. 4. SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS: In Pakistan, family reunification stands as a poignant driver, drawing many individuals towards the embrace of loved ones who have already established their lives abroad. Additionally, the fervent pursuit of elevated living standards, superior healthcare, and enriched educational horizons for one’s progeny serve as a powerful impetus propelling the journey of emigration. Notably, data from Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development reveal that a substantial portion of emigrants from Pakistan cite family reunification and the quest for a better life as their primary motivation for seeking opportunities abroad.
THE BRAIN DRAIN RIPPLE EFFECT
1. ECONOMIC ECHO: Pakistan faces a significant economic impact due to the outflow of human capital investment to foreign countries. Consequently, the nation’s economic landscape has suffered a wide range of consequences, causing bottlenecks in key sectors and hindering the achievement of long-term objectives. According to a report by the International Organization for Migration, Pakistan is among the top countries experiencing a substantial outflow of skilled labour, In 2022, the figure reached three times that of 2021, with a staggering 225,000 individuals leaving the country. 2. SKILLS SHORTFALL: The critical domains of healthcare and technology face a pressing challenge: a severe shortage of specialized professionals. This shortage not only limits the potential of these sectors but also highlights the urgency of addressing the skills gap. The complex worlds of healthcare and technology, driven by the pursuit of cutting-edge breakthroughs, are at a crossroads where the demand for expertise exceeds the available supply. This significant deficit in skilled professionals not only threatens progress but also calls for joint efforts to cultivate and harness the talents necessary for unlocking transformative advancements. 3. INNOVATION IMPASSE: The departure of visionary intellects casts a gloomy shadow over the nation’s potential to foster groundbreaking technologies and pioneering industries. Innovation, the lifeblood of economic progress, holds the power to transform societies. The emergence of novel technologies and industries will not only accelerate economic growth but also propel Pakistan onto the global stage as a formidable player in the realm of innovation. However, the departure of innovative minds, driven by a quest for fertile grounds to cultivate ideas, poses a considerable challenge.
OTHER NATIONS’ EXPERIENCES
A. THE CANADIAN TALENT TEMPTATION: Canada’s innovative immigration policies have successfully attracted many skilled professionals from around the world, which has helped create a diverse and dynamic workforce. One of the key policies that has contributed to this success is the Express Entry system, which was introduced in 2015. This system streamlines the immigration process for skilled workers and has resulted in over 100,000 applicants receiving invitations to apply for permanent residence each year.
B. GERMANY’S RESEARCH MAGNETISM: Germany’s reputation for its academic excellence and research opportunities has made it a magnet for scholars and researchers from various fields. With over 380,000 international students enrolled in its universities, Germany has become a hub for higher education. Additionally, the country ranks among the world’s top three in terms of patent applications, showcasing its commitment to innovation.
C. AUSTRALIA’S PACIFIC PIVOT: Through its strategic focus on the Asia-Pacific region, Australia has not only strengthened its economic ties, but also attracted a significant influx of skilled professionals. The country’s robust economy, high standard of living, and diverse cultural landscape make it an attractive destination for talent. Australia’s General Skilled Migration program, which targets individuals with specific skills, has been instrumental in this endeavour. D. SINGAPORE’S INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM: Due to its strategic location and pro-business policies, Singapore has emerged as a centre for worldwide innovation. The country’s focus on research and development, along with the benefits provided to businesses and ambitious individuals, has attracted a diverse pool of talented experts. Additionally, Singapore’s standing as a reliable and productive commercial setting only adds to its allure.
E. UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: THE GULF’S GLOBAL GATEWAY: In recent years, the United Arab Emirates, in particular Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have developed into major global business hubs. The region’s tax-free income, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and strategic location make it an enticing destination for skilled professionals. The UAE’s forward-looking policies, including the Golden Visa programme offering long-term residency to skilled individuals, have further solidified its position as a talent magnet.
and Cambridge Universities, and Imperial College London are global magnets for academic talents. Despite recent changes in immigration policies, the UK remains a crucial player in inciting the global Brain Drain and transforming it into its Brain Gain. These case studies exemplify the diverse approaches countries employ to attract and retain skilled professionals. By understanding and adapting elements of these successful strategies, nations can navigate Brain Drain’s challenges and harness their human capital’s full potential.
UNLOCKING PAKISTAN’S POTENTIAL As Pakistan forges ahead towards a more prosperous future, it must adopt an all-encompassing vision that takes into account the needs and concerns of both those who stay and those who leave. This vision should include fostering an environment conducive to innovation, investing in education and research, and ensuring political stability. n FOSTERING INNOVATION: Pakistan can establish innovation hubs and research clusters that encourage collaboration between academia and industry. Government incentives for R&D as well as support for startups can stimulate innovation and create attractive opportunities for professionals. n ENHANCING EDUCATION: Investment in education is paramount. Pakistan’s universities should strive to compete on the global stage, attracting talent from within and beyond its borders. Scholarships and research grants can motivate scholars to stay and contribute. n POLITICAL STABILITY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE: Political stability, the rule of law, and transparent governance are essential for building trust and retaining talent. Pakistan’s leadership should work diligently to create an environment where professionals feel secure in their intellectual and financial investments. While Pakistan’s brain-drain dilemma presents challenges, it also presents opportunities for transformation. By implementing proactive strategies and maintaining a forward-thinking perspective, Pakistan can unlock its potential and harness the full strength of its human capital. The Brain Drain dilemma is a global concern, transcending borders in our interconnected world and impacting nations both near and far. As we tackle this complex issue on a global scale, let us focus our attention on Pakistan, a nation of great promise. It is a testament to the mobility of talent and the challenges that come up with it. In the words of John F. Kennedy, ‘Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.’ For Pakistan, this change is vital, as it strives to retain skilled professionals and harness its potential. By addressing the Brain Drain Challenge, Pakistan can shape a brighter tomorrow for its citizens, paving the way for its progress and prosperity.
Why the 7 October attack is not Israel’s 9/11 F. UNITED KINGDOM’S ACADEMIC ENCHANTMENT: Institutions such as Oxford
The writer is freelance columnist
“The real surprise, for Israelis, Palestinians and Arabs alike, was the ability of the Gazan resistance to produce and smuggle in the military equipment necessary under a stifling siege in an exposed, flat strip of land with no mountains or valleys”
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NEW ARAB
azMi Bishara
HE airing of outright fabrications and disinformation regarding the events of 7 October in Gaza, by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed by US President Joe Biden, was not a blunder but a deliberate act of propaganda. It is meant to justify a barbaric and total Israeli war without restraint to exact an unbearable price paid by the Palestinian population of Gaza, the main objective of this war. In other words, to justify the unlawful use of violence and intimidation against Palestinian civilians in the pursuit of political aims. Isn’t that the very definition of terrorism? The counter-objective should therefore be to limit their ability to bomb Gaza without restraint, by exposing and protesting the crimes of Israeli war and sustaining solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza. For two decades, Gazzans have received no quarter, living with a crippling siege and frequent Israeli onslaughts; and today, they are being subjected to cruelty no human is able to tolerate. The combined astonishment and outpouring of emotion since the shock events of 7 October, which challenged Israeli arrogance and Arab frustrations, make it difficult to write dispassionately about the ‘Al-Aqsa Flood’ operation and the ensuing onslaught against Gaza. Without a doubt, this day will be remembered by the younger generation, and will alter their perception both of the occupier’s supremacy and of the dignity of victims of the occupation, as well as the possibilities for resistance against occupation. Days later, even as the occupation is still struggling to recover from the shock attack, Israeli officials have been racing to announce their perpetration of war crimes in Gaza, openly declaring their intentions to commit more. The Israeli administration blatantly disregarded the statement by the UN Secretary-General that imposing a total siege, including cutting off water and electricity, would violate international humanitarian law. Preventing access to water, medicine, and food has been recognised as an unacceptable weapon in war since the Middle Ages, but Israel has become accustomed and entitled to acting above the law. The attack by Al-Qassam Brigades on 7 October on the military bases and towns in the so-called ‘Gaza Envelope’ represents a turning point in the relationship between the Palestinian resistance and Israel. The planning, implementation and power (both real and projected) behind it will preoccupy analysts for years. That morning, not only were concrete fortifications along the border blown up; but so were the mental fortresses built atop misconceptions and stereotypes. The Israelis had allowed themselves to become complacent, despite the suffering they have visited on an indigenous people suffocating under two decades of an inhumane and illegal blockade and despite the far-right government’s growing complicity in attacks on Al-Aqsa Mosque, to the point that plans had been devised to divide the Al-Aqsa site and allocate separate prayer times for Muslims and Jews. They rested on their laurels even as they permitted the escalation of
settler attacks on Palestinians and their property and the government announced its intention to annex vast swathes of the West Bank. Israeli or otherwise, no one should be shocked by the Palestinian reaction. Israeli self-reckoning has started and will be an ongoing process, but it will not lead to the correct conclusions about the relationship of the occupier to the reality lived by those living under occupation. Instead, it will seek internal and incomplete answers to questions about maintaining the occupation, such as: Who was responsible for the intelligence failure? Why were there not enough soldiers? Why were they so late to respond? The real surprise for Israelis, Palestinians and Arabs alike came from the ability of the Gazan resistance to produce and smuggle in the military equipment necessary under a stifling siege in an exposed, flat strip of land with no mountains or valleys. The only people not taken aback by this are those in the know. Most people who have moved past the romantic image of paragliders sailing over the borders have begun to wonder about how the necessary manufacture and training was pulled off and about the number of tunnels that exist. Regardless of differences in attitudes and backgrounds, or even hostilities between one another, Palestinians, and Arabs in general, have the right to feel some renewal of confidence in view of the perseverance, diligence, determination, and imagination demonstrated by the resistance in such impossible conditions. Israel has now launched a war on Gaza, so this is no longer the issue of a standalone military operation. Israel has publicly declared that it will continue to commit crimes against humanity, which will only increase in scale and severity. It is razing entire neighbourhoods in the Gaza Strip, the world’s most densely populated area, largest refugee camp, and biggest open-air prison. It is attempting to erase the memory of the video footage spread far and wide by the resistance and, through wreaking death and destruction in Gaza, restore its prestige in the eyes of its people and its intimidating image in the eyes of the Arabs, both foes and regimes that pursue normalisation. But there is more that can be read into its actions. The relentless and continuing barrage of bombardment after exhausting all targets is an expression of confusion and hesitation about what to do next, and is a tactic that obscures the lack of a plan and a strategy. Furthermore, the green light from Washington and the European governments has encouraged Israel to proceed without sound calculation. The extensive bombing seeks to drive a wedge between the idea of resistance and the people by prohibitively increasing the cost of resistance and the sacrifices made by the people of Gaza, in the hope that continued suffering imposed upon them will mobilise them not against occupation but against Hamas. The indiscriminate bombing, the dehumanisation of caged Palestinians, and threats to deprive them of water and food are shameless expressions of blatant racism. When Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant described the Palestinians as “human animals,” he was not speaking out of uncontrollable rage. Rather, he was plainly expressing this belief and rationalised acts based on this belief. The opportunity had arisen to “legitimately” express this belief against the backdrop of shock, unsuppressed anger, and unconditional Western solidarity with Israel, which made allusions to having suffered its own 9/11. So what is next? If the savage bombardment continues to decimate the densely populated Gaza Strip to the point that Israel declares its “mission accomplished”, yet after that, Al-Qassam commander emerges to assure the people that Hamas and the resistance will prevail, he will also be able to declare the failure of the Israeli assault and build upon the events of 7 October. Is this not exactly what happened in Lebanon in 2006 with far fewer casualties on the Israeli side? An official investigative committee will be formed to hold Netanyahu and his government to account for their
negligence and failed intelligence. Protests will erupt, demanding consequences for a right-wing government with no military expertise, and which was asleep at the watch. Israel’s Iron Sword offensive will be said to have failed because Israel, after the Al-Aqsa Flood and the devastating response, will be right back to square one. Some claim that a ground invasion to end Hamas’ control over the Gaza Strip could be the solution to the Gaza ‘problem’. But how? The Israeli agencies had no idea about the capabilities of the resistance and what they were planning before 7 October, so could they have any better idea of what awaited them if they embarked on a ground invasion or commando operations within the Gaza Strip in areas suspected to host Hamas infrastructure or resistance leaders? Of course not. Therefore, this decision is a considerable risk, potentially career-ending, for whoever makes it, as well as for the lives of many soldiers. Right now, an emergency government has been formed in Israel, so everyone bears the responsibility for the next steps. Ultimately, this may lead to a ground operation, the nature of which has not been determined yet. The Israeli leadership has not yet found an exit from their current predicament. Moreover, if they fail to achieve their goals through a swift and covert operation, which is unlikely, the ongoing crimes they are committing in Gaza will continue with a green light from the United States and the European powers. Israel is unlikely to end the war and a return to the drawing board, and is at present acting like a dangerous and wounded beast. Therefore, every possible action must be taken to restrain it and prevent it from carrying out a full-scale genocide and population transfer. Western Politicians and the mainstream media are acting as though Palestinian or Arab civilians do not exist – instead they are simply beings undeserving of humanity, only abstractly human. However, they are certainly seen as civilians because the only “innocent civilians” in this region are Israelis. The scenes aired by Western mainstream media channels don’t show the suffering of the Palestinian civilians and their losses, and the governing institutions in Europe and the US, as well as Russia and China (who do not so much as pay lip service to human rights nor do they implement them), are not mentioning the injuries inflicted on Palestinian women and children in these airstrikes, let alone treating them as individuals. Over one thousand Palestinian civilians have already been killed by Israeli bombardment. If Israel is allowed to continue with the massacres it is perpetrating, this number could reach many more thousands. Here I want to emphasise the severity of the mistake of the resistance in killing or abducting civilians. Further, the release of the civilians (why they were taken is unknown) is urgent, given the damaging rumours circulat-
ing on this issue, and that the resistance has enough officers and soldiers captive to conduct negotiations with the occupation to free Palestinian prisoners in exchange. Furthermore, the presence of civilians, some foreigners, does not increase the capacity to negotiate - it diminishes it. Nor will it deter the airstrikes. This is because at this stage, Israel is not that bothered whether the hostages are killed or survive; if the hostages are killed during the war, Israel and its allies will weaponize this against Hamas. Hamas would thus be better off releasing the civilians – it is a moral and political burden and will do them strategic damage. I realise that those pulling children out from under the rubble in Gaza are not in any state of mind to engage in this debate. However, the political leadership understands the essence of strategic burdens. The West’s immediate and official alignment with Israel has spared no thought for supposedly minor details like the occupation, the siege, the settlements and the assaults on the holy sites. In fact, the solidarity seemed almost instinctive, taking place within a framework of “us” versus “them” (Arabs, Muslims, Orientals...), as if “us” represents a European-US-Israeli alliance that suffered a sudden collective attack on 7 October. This logic has also generated a comparison with 9/11 even though there are no grounds for comparison: Hamas has never carried out, since its establishment, a single armed operation outside Palestine, on foreign soil. Moreover, the Palestinians who paraglided over the border and those who broke through it were entering regions their parents and grandparents had fled, seeking refuge in the Gaza Strip, and know these villages by their original Arab names. Furthermore, they have been subjected to an inhumane blockade and regular Israeli airstrikes for decades. The comparison with 9/11 is provocative in the extreme, as is the fact that we are constantly being forced to bring up the background of occupation and its protracted violence, and it feels as though in mentioning it, we are trying to justify and defend ourselves and having to begin the argument from scratch every time. It feels as though we are living in two different worlds. The ordinary Israeli is taught to ignore the occupation to maintain a “normal” life. Hence, becoming aware of the reality will make an Israeli’s life miserable and lead them either to turn against the occupation, emigrate, or live in internal conflict. Alternately, they will become more extreme and fanatical to attempt to justify the reality to themselves in a particular type of cognitive dissonance. But for US or European journalists they have no excuse to ignore the reality of the occupation when they ask with feigned ignorance for Arabs to condemn ‘Palestinian terrorism’ as though the issue started with this.
Dr. Azmi Bishara is a Palestinian intellectual, academic and writer.
06 NEWS
GAZA DEATH TOLL HITS 1,400 WITH OVER 338,000 PEOPLE DISPLACED
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HE death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 1,400 people, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said on Thursday, following an increase in Israeli bombardments on the sixth day since Hamas’s surprise attack. “The number of martyrs has risen to around 1,200, and the number of wounded to around 5,600,” a spokesperson for the health ministry in Gaza said. More than 338,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in the Gaza Strip, the United Nations said, as heavy Israeli bombardments continue to hit the Palestinian enclave. “Mass displacement across the Gaza Strip continues,” the UN humanitarian agency OCHA said in a statement sent on Thursday. By late Wednesday, the number of displaced people in Gaza had risen by an additional 75,000 people from the
figure given 24 hours earlier, reaching 338,934, it said. The announcement came as Israel pounded Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip – a densely populated enclave of 2.3 million people – in response to the militants’ surprise Saturday attack. US President Joe Biden warned Iran against getting involved in Israel’s conflict with Hamas amid fears of a wider regional conflict, while Israeli air strikes around the Gaza Strip drove hundreds of thousands from their homes. Israeli jets have pounded Gazan targets for days in retribution for a weekend attack by Hamas militants who breached the border fence enclosing the enclave and rampaged through towns and villages, killing 1,200 people, injuring over 2,700, and taking scores of hostages, the Israeli military said. Brazil, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council, called a Friday meeting of the body to discuss the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, its foreign affairs ministry said Wednesday.
UN experts say Israeli strikes on Gaza amount to ‘collective punishment’ GAZA
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As heavy Israeli bombardments continued to hit the Palestinian enclave on Thursday, dozens of the United Nations’ rights experts said Israel’s bombardment of the Gaza Strip “amounts to collective punishment”. The statement comes after Israel imposed a “total siege” to stop food and fuel from reaching the enclave of 2.3 million people, many poor and dependent on aid in response to a surprise Hamas offensive on Saturday that left 1,200 Israelis dead, according to officials. In retaliatory air and artillery strikes, Israeli forces have flattened entire neighbourhoods, hospitals and schools in Gaza, killing 1,200 Palestinians since Saturday, and displacing more than 338,000. Yesterday, electricity went out after the only power station stopped working. While condemning the “horrific crimes committed by Hamas”, the group said that Israel had resorted to “indiscriminate military attacks against the already exhausted Palestinian people of Gaza”. “They have lived under unlawful blockade for 16 years, and already gone through five major brutal wars, which remain unaccounted for,” the group, which includes several UN special rapporteurs, said in a statement.
7,738 graduates receive degrees at QAU convocation 2023 KARACHI
Staff report
7,738 graduates including 298 PhD, 3359 M.Phil, 1198 M.Sc, and 2883 BS were conferred degrees in the 10th Convocation of Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) here on Thursday. The Chancellor of QAU, Dr. Arif Alvi, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan awarded the degrees to graduates. While addressing the convocation the President stressed the universities to provide quality education to the students as it was the foremost requirement for the country's development. He directed the education ministry and Higher Education Commission (HEC) to support universities in designing courses and departments in accordance with the demand for jobs in the market. Referring to the shortage of professionals, especially in the medical field in the country, the president advised female professionals not to sit at home after
PTCL decides to monetize 12 non-core assets for enhancing financial agility ISLAMABAD
Staff report
completing their degree. The president said the literacy rate in the country was alarmingly low as over 20 million or 40% of children were currently out of school. He said to accommodate all the children at once, the government would need 55000 more schools which would be unaffordable for it. He feared that this huge number of out-of-school children could become a burden for the country in the future. He said the mosques could be utilized for providing education besides the use of the latest technology to educate the children while sitting at home. Caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Madad Ali Sindhi on the occasion said the government was promoting education at every level. He said he had directed to provide all basic facilities to the schools in Islamabad as without basic facilities, the quality of education could not be improved. Earlier Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar (S.I.) Vice Chancellor Quaid-i-Azam University, briefed the chan-
China, India agree to maintain peace at border in 20th corps commander level meeting BEIJING
Staff CorreSpondent
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited has decided to sell its twelve surplus immovable assets in nine cities to strengthen its financial health and service capacity. This is in consideration of the company’s aggressive network and ICT infrastructure expansion plans. Required approvals have been accorded for the planned sale of company’s properties, situated in Attock, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Kasur, Multan, Okara, Sadiqabad and Sialkot. As a responsible corporate entity, PTCL ensures strict compliance with the relevant company policies and legal frameworks in all business operations. The planned transactions will be carried out through a transparent auction process in accordance with the rules and regulations to provide an equal opportunity to all individuals/firms interested in buying the properties. The funds generated from these properties will be allocated to the expansion of PTCL's network and IT infrastructure. The liquid resources will play a pivotal role in financing upcoming projects aimed at delivering enhanced connectivity and integrated ICT services to an even larger consumer and enterprise user base across the nation.
China and India are effectively managing the risk of another border conflict, experts said on Thursday, after the two countries held, earlier this week, the 20th round of corps commander level meetings where they agreed to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas as the two sides continue to work out a mutually acceptable solution on the issue. The Chinese and Indian militaries held the 20th round of corps commander level meetings at the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point on the Indian side on Monday and Tuesday, in which the two sides had positive, in-depth and constructive exchanges on resolving the remaining issues along the Line of
LAHORE
Staff report
RUDA CEO visits industrial zone, issues anti-smog directives Staff report
cellor, Pro-Chancellor, and the audience regarding the achievements and future plans of the University. He said as a premier institution of higher education in the country, Quaid-i-Azam University has the potential to make significant contributions to the sustainable development and economic growth of the nation. The Vice Chancellor said, recently the university has launched a comprehensive strategy to take its vision into the future. “The current management of the university has taken swift steps to put the university on the path of excellence and development by adopting a holistic approach. Our plan involves optimizing administrative processes by identifying and addressing inefficiencies to save time and resources. We also aim to implement digital solutions across campus services and administrative processes in the near future” said the Vice Chancellor. The Vice-Chancellor congratulated the parents, teachers, and graduates for their excellent dedication and performance.
Actual Control in the western sector of the China-India border in a mutually acceptable manner at the earliest possible date, according to a Thursday press release from China’s Ministry of National Defense. Under the guidance of the two countries’ top leaderships, the two sides exchanged views in a frank, open and forward-looking manner, as they agreed to maintain the momentum of communication and dialogues through military and diplomatic channels so as to resolve the remaining issues as soon as possible, the press release said. In the interim, the two sides are committed to maintaining peace and tranquility in the border regions, it said. India’s Ministry of External Affairs also released a press release on Wednesday, stating that the two sides are working on an early and mutu-
PTCL Group awarded ‘best place to work in technology & telecom sector’ by PSHRM-Engage Consulting ISLAMABAD
CEO of Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) Imran Amin today has commenced a visit to the industrial zone in a determined effort to address air pollution specially in the preview of upcoming smog season on the directives of Chief Minister on the subject. During his visit, the CEO of the authority was briefed by ED Engineering Abdul Waheed over a series of directives that aimed at combating smog and promoting sustainable practices within the region. ED Engineering said, “A comprehensive assessment of industries in particular and RUDA area in general was conducted, necessitating the implementation of many crucial guidelines such as, ban on burning of stubbles, restriction of movement of open utility carts and trucks, dust separation measures like sprinkling, ban on burning carbon slugs and tyres and other pollution emitting industrious furnace fumes.
ally acceptable resolution of the remaining issues, and will maintain peace and tranquility on the ground. The previous round of meetings was held in mid-August, with both sides agreeing on similar issues. With the continued meetings between China and India, the possibility of another border conflict is very low, Zhao Gancheng, a research fellow from the Shanghai Institute for International Studies, told the Global Times on Thursday. One important aim of communication and dialogues is to not let the situation deteriorate, Zhao said. No significant breakthrough was made at the latest meeting, The Times of India reported on Thursday, citing an anonymous source. Zhao said that right now, it is difficult to resolve all of the issues once for all.
Pakistan’s largest telecommunications and ICT services provider, PTCL Group (PTCL & Ufone 4G) has bagged the coveted ‘Best Place to Work in Technology & Telecom Sector’ award for its exemplary workplace culture and standards of employee satisfaction. The awards were held by Pakistan Society of Human Resource Management’ (PSHRM) and Engage Consulting. PTCL Group’s victory reflects the success of its initiative to transform its workplace culture. Over these years, the Group has undertaken profound initiatives to foster a progressive workplace, strongly grounded in diversity, inclusivity, equality, with personal and profes-
sional development. The company offers competitive remunerations, performance incentives, active mentorship, work-life balance, and mental and physical well-being to promote employee satisfaction. Women and employees with special needs enjoy exclusive facili-
ties, along with equal opportunities for growth and career advancement. The state-of-the-art infrastructure and modern office facilities provide a comfortable and peaceful work environment, while strict disciplinary and work ethics codes protect all employees equally and transparently. Group Chief People Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G, Shoaib Baig stated, “Embracing the award, PTCL Group stands tall in the industry. We're bold, unyielding, and hungry for success as we conquer every challenge in our path. With robust plans in telecom and digital tech, we're on the lookout for top notch talent as we believe in expressing talent and adding value to our dynamic and inclusive environment, where potential knows no bounds.”
China’s Q3 data to highlight sustained recovery, though pressure remains: economists BEIJING
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Several third-quarter indicators due out on Friday, including exports, are expected to show that the Chinese economy is still on a sustained recovery track, even as downward pressure persists due largely to a deteriorating external environment, Chinese economists said on Thursday. While the pressure of a slowdown is expected to continue to weigh on the world’s second-largest economy, policy measures coupled with improving endogenous growth drivers will ensure that China will reach its annual GDP growth target of about 5 percent in 2023, economists said. They expect a relatively lower growth rate of above
4 percent for the third quarter alone, due to a high base in 2022. China is scheduled to release a batch of data on Friday for September and the third quarter, including trade, the producer price index (PPI) and the consumer price index (CPI). Third-quarter GDP data will be released next week. Among the indicators set for release on Friday, figures for exports, a major growth driver for the Chinese economy, and the CPI are drawing widespread attention amid slowdown pressures. In the first eight months of 2023, China’s total trade reached 27.08 trillion yuan ($3.7 trillion), down 0.1 percent year-on-year, while exports grew by 0.8 percent, according to official data. However, in US dollar terms, China’s total
trade declined by 6.5 percent year-onyear. Trade activity likely continued the recovery that started at the end of August, and the third-quarter declines in US dollar terms likely narrowed, thanks to factors such as a boost from economic stimulus policies, Gao Lingyun, an expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, told the Global Times on Thursday. The CPI has also drawn much attention, as declines in previous months prompted speculation about deflation. In August, however, the CPI returned to positive territory, with a gain of 0.1 percent, offering a resounding rebuttal to claims of a deflation crisis in the world’s second-largest economy. Chinese economists said that the positive trend will continue, with some
forecasting CPI growth of 0.2 percent in September, citing a rebound in consumption and overall economic conditions. The PPI, a main gauge of factory gate prices, was expected to show further improvement, after it fell by 3 percent in August compared with a 4.4 percent drop in July. Overall, the steady recovery of the economy continued in the third quarter, with improvements seen in various areas, including consumption, economists said. “If the consumption recovery meets expectations with double-digit growth, China’s third-quarter GDP could have grown by as much as 5 percent year-onyear,” Tian Yun, a Beijing-based economist, told the Global Times on Thursday. “Even if it didn’t reach 5 percent, it would have been very close.”
Friday, 13 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
CORPORATE CORNER
Punjab IG Prisons Mian Farooq Nazir visits Millat Tractors Factory. The IG Prisons graced historic event of “Tractors & Implements Delivery Ceremony”. On this occasion, he inaugurated delivery of 41 units each of Millat MF-260 – Special edition tractors along with Implements to fulfil their agricultural and waste management needs in all prisons across Punjab.
HBL takes center stage at IAMTN Summit in Dubai KARACHI
Staff report
HBL, Pakistan's Best Bank and a leading player in the country’s remittance flows, partnered with the International Association of Money Transfer Networks (IAMTN) Summit in Dubai on 11 and 12 October 2023. The IAMTN Annual Summit gathers professionals, thought leaders, and innovators in the financial services industry to discuss challenges, initiatives, and opportunities in the realm of international money transfers and remittances. IAMTN is the only global trade association that represents the cross-border payments industry. Speaking at the session as a key speaker, Sagheer Mufti, Chief Operating Officer – HBL, said, “HBL is committed to innovate and transform the cross-border payments landscape. Interoperability is the key to unlocking the full potential of cross-border remittances. By breaking down silos and enabling seamless integration between different payment systems, we can create a more efficient and inclusive financial landscape and serve our clients better.”
Zong 4G CEO visits PTA Chairman to discuss future of digitalization in Pakistan ISLAMABAD
Staff report
The CEO and Chairman of Zong 4G (CMPak), Mr. Huo Junli, met with the Chairman of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (Retd.) Hafeez ur Rehman on Monday, 9th October, to discuss matters related to the growth of Pakistan’s telecom industry. The leaders of Zong 4G and PTA discussed the future of digitalization in the country and the mutual efforts that can go into furthering innovation and growth. The discussion was centered around creating an environment of social and digital inclusion, striving to develop an extensive network that covers the length and breadth of the country, giving life to a new era of connectivity through the widespread adoption of technology. Mr. Junli also stressed the importance of digital enable-
Chevron flood rehab program – an initiative to help people of Pakistan KARACHI
Staff report
In 2022, Pakistan was hit by one of the worst floods in its history. Millions of people were affected by the floods, and more than 800,000 houses were completely destroyed. In these difficult times, Chevron supported the peopale by constructing 175 shelters in two affected provinces, Sindh & Baluchistan.The inauguration ceremony of the project took place on October 10th, and the keys of completed houses were handed over to the residents of three villages in Sindh who were affected by the natural disaster. Present at the ceremony was Ahmed Zahid Zaheer, Country Chairman & General Manager Chevon Pakistan Lubricants (Private) Limited. “Chevron is proud to have been able to support the flood rehabilitation program. This is not just about providing shelter; it's about rebuilding lives and communities. Each of these shelters has been designed to provide a safe and secure environment for the affected families, a place they can call home in these challenging times. As we inaugurate this Flood Rehabilitation Program, let us remember that it is not just about the structures we have built but about the lives we are helping to rebuild. It is about restoring hope and dignity to those who have suffered. It is about showing that, in times of adversity, we stand together as one community, one nation.”
Friday, 13 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
CORPORATE CORNER TPL and WWF-Pakistan Join Forces to Restore Karachi's Coastal Ecosystem
It was a day of unity, passion, and purpose as TPL, a leading technology-driven conglomerate, teamed up with WWF-Pakistan to make a lasting impact on Karachi's coastal ecosystem. The event, which took place on Thursday, 5th October 2023, at the WWF Wetland Centre in Karachi, demonstrated TPL’s commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement.The Mangrove Plantation activity brought together employees – to participate in a series of meaningful activities aimed at raising awareness and actively contributing to the preservation of our coastal treasures.The day began with an informative session led by WWF-Pakistan, where participants gained insights into the critical role played by mangroves in protecting coastal regions and the ecosystem. Armed with knowledge, participants then took to planting mangrove saplings, symbolizing their dedication to a greener future.A captivating educational transit walk through the lush mangrove forests followed, deepening participants' appreciation for the natural beauty and ecological importance of these coastal wonders. The walk was complemented by a meditation session, offering a tranquil moment for reflection in the heart of nature. PR
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ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
ENERALLY, the Chinese side has always wanted that Pakistan must grow and must develop using the advantage of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It would become a new engine for the economic development of Pakistan,” Chairman of KASB Group, Nasir Ali Shah Bukhari, said on Thursday. Speaking at the event “10 Years of Belt and Road Initiative – CPEC” held in Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Nasir said that CPEC was launched as a game-changer project in Pakistan, and it changed the livelihoods of millions of people in the country. “Energy, transportation infrastructure and power projects such as Gwadar port, Gwadar East-Bay Expressway and Sahiwal Power Plant have laid a solid foundation for Pakistan’s economic
development,” he added. Since its inception, CPEC has opened doors for economic and social welfare in Pakistan. This has been achieved through the creation of jobs, exchange of personnel, poverty alleviation, and various relief projects. These findings were revealed in a report by Pakistan’s stock brokerage and corporate advisory firm, KASB KTrade Securities, during the event.
According to the report, CPEC has significantly contributed to Pakistan’s economy by boosting the development of industries such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and textiles. During the seminar, Fawad Hasan Fawad, Federal Minister for Privatisation of Pakistan, delivered a keynote speech. He said that learning takes place across various platforms under CPEC. “Starting to develop a global vision,
TikTok's commitment to well-being: Supporting and encouraging #MentalHealthAwareness in Pakistan
Another 160 connections disconnected in Punjab, KP and Islamabad: SNGPL Master Changan Motors Ltd (MCML is a joint venture with Changan International) has successfully exported the first batch of 14 Oshan X7s to Kenya for onwards sale to Kenya and Tanzania markets. Last year first sample unit was also exported to a country in the Oceania region. PR
During the ongoing crackdown against gas pilferers, SNGPL continued raids in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad, disconnecting another 160 connections while imposing fine of Rs.33.8 million and 235 under billing cases processed In Lahore, the regional team disconnected 12 connections on illegal use of gas and another five on use of compressor and 14 under billing cases have been processed . The region also booked an amount of Rs. 11M against Under billing and gas theft cases.In Bahawalpur, the regional team disconnected 06 connections on use of compressor,21 under billing cases processed.In Islamabad the region disconnected 14 connections on illegal use of gas.The company disconnected 16 connections on illegal use of gas while another three connections on the use of compressor , 21 under billing cases have been processed in Multan.The regional team imposed fine of Rs 3.11 against gas pilferers. The regional team in sheikhupura disconnected 17 on illegal use of gas ,60 under billing cases have been processed and amount of Rs 3.01M in gas theft and Under billing cases. PR
EFU Life honored with ‘Corporate Excellence Award’by Management Association of Pakistan. PR
Valley School of Art & Architecture, TDAP successfully organize second in series of Seminars on Crafting Identity Through Fashion Accessories
KARACHI: TikTok, the leading destination for short videos, is at the forefront of promoting mental health awareness, with a special emphasis on Pakistan's vibrant community. On World Mental Health Day and beyond, TikTok celebrates the resilience and courage of its users, reinforcing the message that we are "Better Together" when we prioritize mental wellbeing.Pakistan's TikTok community is breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, sharing impactful stories and valuable resources. TikTok collaborates with mission-driven organizations globally, notably sponsoring the Rare Impact Fund Benefit with a generous $250,000 donation. The event, held on October 4, successfully raised funds and highlighted the importance of expanding access to mental health services and education for youth worldwide.A global in-app survey revealed that 63% of Pakistani TikTok users find a sense of belonging on the platform, aligning with the global sentiment. Throughout October, TikTok invites its global community to participate in the #MentalHealthAwareness: "Better Together" campaign, sharing stories and well-being journeys. Globally, related hashtags such as #MentalHealth, #SelfCare, and #MentalHealthAwareness have collectively garnered billions of views. In Pakistan, hashtags like #MentalHealth, #MentalHealthAwareness, and #DigitalHifazat have received 3.1+ billion. PR
20th International 3P Pakistan Mega Exhibition Inaugurated at Karachi Expo Centre
Lighting Up the Cricket World Cup: TCL's Electrifying Commercial
LAHORE: TCL, Pakistan's Leading LED TV Brand, is thrilled to introduce its captivating Commercial Ad in collaboration with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the Cricket World Cup. Boasting a stellar lineup of Pakistan's formidable men's cricket squad, including standout players like Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Hasan Ali, this Commercial Ad is a pulsating blend of music that energizes and resonates strongly with the younger generation. It has taken the cricketing world by storm, igniting passion and anticipation among cricket fans and enthusiasts. The video has already achieved a remarkable 1.5 million views on various online platforms, securing a prominent position among the top 3 trending topics on X (formerly known as Twitter). Furthermore, it has garnered numerous enthusiastic comments from online users, who have praised the video for its impact and resonance upon its release. PR
S&P Global Pakistan receives multiple recognitions at the Best Place to Work Awards
ISLAMABAD: S&P Global Pakistan has been recognised as one of Pakistan’s top four companies to work for in the ‘Overall Best Place to Work Category’ which analyzed more than 300 companies. It also won the prestigious Best Place to Work recognition, Best Place to Work in the IT Services Industry, and Best Leaders Award. This reaffirms S&P Global Pakistan’s commitment to building an inclusive and equitable culture that promotes its core values of discovery, partnership, and integrity. Mujeeb Zahur, Managing Director, S&P Global Pakistan, said, “I am delighted that S&P Global Pakistan has received three awards and has emerged as a top contender in the Best of the Best Award category. The collaborative work culture has also contributed to the company's success in attracting and retaining top talent. As we celebrate our success today, we look forward to further enhancing our workplace initiatives to ensure that our people always remain at the heart of the organisation’s success. These accolades underscore S&P Global Pakistan's relentless dedication to fostering an environment where colleagues are driven by its purpose to accelerate progress. With approximately 1,500 employees engaged in data, research, and analytics, S&P Global Pakistan has operated in Islamabad for the past 18 years. PR
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CPEC ContributEs to soCio-EConomiC ProgrEss in Pakistan: kasb grouP NEWS
As part of its Textile & Leather Division’s Annual Business Plan 2023-24, in collaboration with the Indus Valley School of Art & Architecture, TDAP successfully organized the second in series of Seminars/ Interactive Dialogue Session on “ Crafting Identity Through Fashion Accessories” on 12th October, 2023 at the TDAP Headquarters, Katachi, wherein more than 50 participants from SMEs and Academia side attended in person and over 90 observed it via zoom link. Speakers from Khaadi, IVS and celebrity designer from the UK shared their knowledge & creative presentations on the topic. PR
Pakistan Mercantile Exchange organizes Investment Road Show in Multan
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Mercantile Exchange (PMEX) organized Pakistan Investment Road Show in Multan in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI). This event was organized during the World Investor Week 2023 by PMEX under the guidance of SECP to spread financial literacy and encourage the culture of savings and investing. The event comprised of an exhibition showcasing securities brokers, commodities brokers, and leading mutual funds. Alongside, an awareness seminar was held where Mr. Murtaza Abbas, Joint Director, Investor Education Department, SECP highlighted the regulator’s role in the non-banking financial sector and elaborated on the concepts of investing and savings. PMEX representative spoke about commodities futures trading, with a special emphasis on gold trading at PMEX. PR
20th International 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Country’s Pioneer and Biggest Exhibition for Plastic, Printing and Packaging industry organized by Fakt Exhibitions (Pvt.) Ltd. opened its doors on 12th October 2023 at Karachi Expo Centre. The exhibition was inaugurated by Chief Guest Kamran Khan Tessori – Governor Sindh, Saleem Khan Tanoli – CEO Fakt Exhibitions in the presence of other renowned industry names. On this occasion Governor Sindh stated that “Fakt Exhibitions has taken a wonderful initiative by organizing 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Exhibition, which will provide a rewarding opportunity for Plastic, Printing and Packaging industry to demonstrate state-of-the-art machinery and technology. He further added that exhibitions like 3P Plas Print Pack Pakistan Exhibition have played a pivotal role in strengthening the industries, providing business, employment opportunities and uplifting the economy of Pakistan.”. PR
which is a hallmark of Chinese thinking in every sphere of life. They also look at it in terms of all possible futuristic potential that it can offer. That is one singular reason for Chinese success, which is so remarkable and provides us an opportunity at that point in time to learn from them,” added Fawad. Ex CPEC Head Hassan Daud But also addressed the event. He dismissed rumors related to CPEC and said that the decadelong CPEC has contributed to the sustainable development and growth of Pakistan. CPEC is now entering a new stage of high-quality development, expanding cooperation in science and technology, agriculture and people’s livelihood. In the panel discussion session, guests including Tahir Aslam, MD of Fongrow, Ali Majid, General Manager of Pakistani Division, LONGi, and Sufian Ahmad Ch, Head of Marketing, Xiaomi Pak, shared ideas on topics such as agriculture, energy and Information Technology.
KE collaborates with Bank Alfalah for cashback to enable savings
KARACHI: Amid tough economic conditions, many citizens are facing a crunch in the payment of their utility bills. As a customer-centric organization committed to facilitate customers, KE has partnered with Bank Alfalah to offer a cashback facility on the payment of KE bills.The offer is valid from October 1, 2023 to November 30, 2023 only for Bank Alfalah accounts, credit cards, wallet and orbits customers who make payments through Alfa QR services. Bank Alfalah customers can avail this facility by scanning a QR code posted on their bills and receive a cashback of PKR 500 per unique Alfa registered CNIC. The bill amount must exceed PKR 2,000 in order for the customers to be eligible. Complete terms and conditions and FAQs are also available on KE’s website.Digital banking and online interactions have seen a significant rise in the last few years, as more customers seek convenience and savings. Recognizing this trend, KE has partnered with a number of financial institutions to assist customers with their bill payments. With a focus on digitalization, the company has over 1.3 million customers interacting virtually with the business through various channels. PR
Pakistan a lucrative destination for future investments: Chairman & CEO ORA Developers, Naguib Sawiris
ISLAMABAD: Naguib Sawiris, Chairman & CEO of Ora Developers, expressed his enthusiasm for the progress of the prestigious Eighteen housing project in Pakistan during a press conference held in Islamabad. The project, which aims to redefine the standards of luxury living in Pakistan and create a world-class community, blending modernity with natural beauty, has achieved significant milestones in infrastructure development. This includes the visit of the Regional Dispatch Centre of China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC). The China Gezhouba Group Company is also playing a vital role in the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by doing some key projects in Pakistan. Followed by the inauguration of The Market as well as a state-of-the-art, 9-hole professional Golf Academy, various recreational facilities like sports clubs, fitness centers, and sports complexes. PR
IRC and EPA KP Join Hands for Environmental Sustainability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
BankIslami Earns Runner-Up Honors in Best Islamic Bank Category at 20th Annual Excellence Awards
KARACHI: BankIslami, Pakistan's premier Islamic financial institution, has been awarded the prestigious runner-up position in the Best Islamic Bank category at the 20th Annual Excellence Awards, organized by the CFA Society Pakistan. The awards ceremony, held on Friday, October 06, 2023, celebrated outstanding performers in the financial industry to recognize their valuable contributions to the financial sector of Pakistan.BankIslami's recognition as the runner-up in the Best Islamic Bank category is a testament to its unwavering commitment to saving humanity from Riba and its dedication to delivering innovative and customer-centric financial solutions. The bank consistently strives to provide its customers with Shariah-compliant banking services that meet their evolving financial needs. PR
Peshawar The International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Environment Protection Agency (EPA), Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa signed a Letter of Understanding (LoU) to collaborate on initiatives of mutual interest surrounding environmental sustainability across the province. The signing ceremony took place in Peshawar, at the EPA office. The LoU was signed by, Ms. Lubna Javaid Deputy Director Programs of IRC, and Mr. Muhammad Anwar Khan Director General, Environmental Protection Agency. Other representatives of IRC & EPA attended the event. The event was facilitated by the Research, Development & Coordination (RD&C) section of EPA KP. PR
TRG COUNTERS ALLEGED MALICIOUS MEDIA CAMPAIGN BY FORMER CEO NEWS
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COMPANY URGES ITS PUBLIC SHAREHOLDERS TO RELY ONLY ON INFORMATION DISSEMINATED BY OFFICIAL CHANNELS PROFIT
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RG Pakistan Limited (PSX: TRG) has issued a stern reaction to what it called a malicious media campaign, designed to perpetuate misleading, false, and defamatory claims put forth by the company’s former CEO, Zia Chishti, through paid advertisements in the press. In a notification released to PSX, TRG Pakistan expressed deep concerns over the proliferation of misleading, false, and defamatory information against it in the media. Some of these articles were also circulating on online media platforms and were the same in context. The notification stated that TRG Pakistan believes this campaign is part of a continuous effort by Chishti, along with his associates and others acting in
concert with him, to discredit the current management and certain directors of the company. Their ultimate goal, as stated, appears to be to illegally seize control of the company.
The backdrop of this ongoing feud traces back to Chishti’s resignation in November 2021. This followed sworn public testimony in the U.S. Congress by a former employee of Afiniti, reveal-
ing that Chishti was found liable in a US arbitration for harassment and assault. In response, TRG Pakistan Limited asserts its commitment to protecting its shareholders and stakeholders. The company aims to ensure that Chishti does not unlawfully take control of the company or influence its operations, which they argue would be detrimental to the company’s value. The company alerted its public shareholders and other stakeholders to only rely upon information disseminated by TRG Pakistan through official channels. The company has urged its public shareholders and other stakeholders to not be influenced by the continued malicious and mala fide smear campaign being run against the company, its management, and certain directors by its former CEO, his associates, and other persons acting in concert with him.
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Pakistan looks forward to enhancing defence cooperation with Qatar: COAS RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lieutenant General (Pilot) Salem Hamad Eqail Al-Nabet called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir at the General Headquarters (GHQ) on Thursday. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), in a statement, said matters of mutual and professional interest and regional security situation were discussed in the meeting. Speaking on the occasion, COAS Gen Munir said: “Pakistan values its brotherly relations with Qatar and Pakistan Army also looks forward for enhanced defence and security cooperation with Qatar armed forces.” The visiting dignitary appreciated the Pakistan Army’s continuous efforts for peace and stability in the region and pledged to keep working for better relations between the two countries. The meeting came as Israel unleashed its most powerful bombing campaign in the 75-year history of the IsraeliPalestinian conflict. Israel vowed to annihilate Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip. Israel announced that there would be no humanitarian break in its siege of the Gaza Strip until all hostages taken by Hamas were freed.
Iran president, Saudi crown prince speak for first time since ties restored TEHRAN
AGENCIES
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on, in the first telephone call between the two leaders since a China-brokered deal between Tehran and Riyadh to resume ties. The two leaders’ call came as Israel carried out air strikes in the Gaza Strip in retaliation for a deadly attack by Palestinian Hamas militants in Israel. Raisi and the Saudi crown prince discussed the “need to end war crimes against Palestine,” Iranian state media said. The Saudi crown prince, for his part, “affirmed that the Kingdom is making all possible efforts in communicating with all international and regional parties to stop the ongoing escalation,” Saudi state news agency SPA said. He also reiterated Saudi Arabia’s rejection of targeting civilians in any way, SPA added. Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to resume ties in March under a deal negotiated by China after seven years of hostility, which had threatened stability and security in the Gulf and helped fuel conflicts in the Middle East, from Yemen to Syria.
ALLOWANCE WILL ONLY BE GIVEN TO A FEW OFFICERS OF GRADE 17 AND ABOVE PROFIT
SHAHZAD PARACHA
The caretaker Prime Minister has approved a 140% executive allowance for Federal Board of Revenue officers of grade 17 or above. Sources privy to the development said that the PM, on the recommendation of the Finance division, has approved a summary pertaining to rationalization of allowances to the FBR headquarter. The Finance division had requested 150% Executive Allowance on basic pay; however, the PM approved 140% allowance for around 300 officers (Inland Revenue as well as Customs officers) working in the FBR headquarters. The said allowance will come into effect from November 1st, 2023 and the expenditure involved shall be met by the FBR from its allocated budget for the current fiscal year 2023-24.
Sources said that FBR will have to bear approximately an additional Rs 300 million after adjustment of the FBR-specific allowances and incentives. It is important to note that government officers of grade 17-22 were also granted a 30% adhoc relief allowance in the budget 2023-24. The increase in the allowance of senior officials also raises questions about the frozen performance allowances of small scale employees. Finance division on the recommendation of FBR in July 2023, asked the PM office not only to defreeze performance allowances for 1,724 officers in field formations, but also a disparity reduction allowance of 40% for all employees (BS 1 to 16). It is pertinent to note that former finance minister Ishaq Dar in 2013-14 budget freezed the allowances of lower grade officials which has not been defreezed despite a number of protests by FBR officials.
IHC clubs Imran’s pleas against cypher case, trial court proceedings ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday clubbed former prime minister Imran Khan’s separate petitions seeking to stay the trial court proceedings in the cypher case and dismiss the case altogether. The cypher case pertains to a diplomatic document that reportedly went missing from Imran’s possession. The PTI alleges that the document contained a threat from the United States to oust Khan from office. The PTI chief was convicted and sentenced to three years in prison in the Toshakhana graft case on August 5, 2023. He was subsequently shifted to Attock jail, but the IHC later suspended his sentence. However, Khan remained in jail because he was on judicial remand in the cypher case. On September 26, the IHC accepted Imran’s petition to be shifted to Adiala jail in Rawalpindi from Attock district jail. On September 30, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) submitted a challan —a charge sheet — in the Special Court established under the Official Secrets Act, naming the former prime minister and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi as the principal accused in the cypher case. Imran has filed several petitions in the IHC, including one seeking to stay his jail trial in the cypher case, another seeking to suspend the Toshakhana verdict,
and a third against his indictment in the cipher case, which is [set for October 17]. Today, IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq took up a separate plea seeking the stay of Imran’s trial in the cipher case and clubbed it with the main plea, wherein he has sought the dismissal of the case and be fixed for hearing. During the hearing, senior lawyer Sardar Latif Khosa appeared as Imran’s counsel and informed the court that the pleas were seeking the stay of the trial court proceedings and challenging the special court’s order of indictment. He further said that the matter was pending before the IHC and a verdict had been reserved, adding that the Lahore High Court has also issued a stay order in a case by the FIA. Khosa reiterated that he had urged the special court to “not hurry” as the matter was pending before the high court. The lawyer went on to emphasise that he had “plenty of concerns” regarding the application of the Official Secrets Act in the case. “What security was compromised or which secrecy [sic] was leaked? Bhutto sahib had also made similar remarks in his speech in Raja Bazaar, so what? “My client is a national hero and the world knows and believes that. Now, he is in jail [while] innocent,” Khosa asserted. Justice Farooq then asked him if the separate plea should be combined with that seeking dis-
missal of the case, to which Khosa agreed on the condition that it would be fixed before October 17. When Justice Farooq inquired what would happen on October 17, the counsel replied, “There would be great unpleasantness on October 17. A trial is under way. Indictment is to take place.” The chief justice then observed that he would review the matter and issue an order on it, assuring that the pleas would be fixed for hearing before October 17. Meanwhile, Imran’s lawyer, Naeem Haider Panjutha lamented the delay in today’s hearing of his client’s bail plea in the cypher case. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he said the hearing was supposed to start at 2pm but it had not started till 2:34pm at least. He added that even the previous hearing began late, due to which it had to be adjourned. OBJECTIONS ON PLEA AGAINST INDICTMENT REMOVED: Separately, the IHC also removed objections to the plea filed a day ago that challenged the special court’s indictment order of October 9. Justice Farooq also took up this plea today while Sher Afzal Marwat appeared as Imran’s lawyer and argued that his client had not accepted the copies of the case while the order stated otherwise. Marwat further asserted that the PTI chief had not accepted the copies of the indictment challan (charge sheet) either while Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain had claimed the contrary.
Friday, 13 October, 2023
PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR SUNRISE
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PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF SUSPENSION IS TO ENSURE THAT FINANCIAL REGULATIONS ARE UPHELD AND INTEGRITY OF FINANCIAL SYSTEM IS PRESERVED PROFIT
NEWS DESK
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has suspended the authorization of five exchange companies of Bcategory with immediate effect. The exchange companies facing suspension include (a) International Exchange Company, (b) World Wide Exchange Company, (c) World Exchange Company, (d) Universal Exchange Company, and (e) United Exchange Company. The SBP’s stern action comes in response to serious violations of the central bank’s regulations and instructions. The primary objective of the suspension is to ensure that financial regulations are upheld and the integrity of the financial system is preserved. The suspension notice issued by the SBP explicitly states, “All the aforementioned Exchange Companies–B Category, their head offices, and all branches have been debarred from undertaking any kind of business activity during the suspension period.” This strict measure aims to prevent these companies from conducting any financial operations until further notice. Notably, the SBP has not disclosed specific details regarding the nature of the violations committed by these exchange companies. However, the severity of the breach was cited as the reason for their immediate suspension. This latest action follows a similar move by the SBP in September when the central bank suspended the authorization of four exchange companies.
WB’s South Asia Rep for Energy Meets with Federal Minister of Privatisation PROFIT
NEWS DESK
The South Asia Practice Manager for Energy at the World Bank, Simon Stolp and his team met with Fawad Hasan Fawad, the Federal Minister of Privatisation in Islamabad. The primary focus was to discuss the government’s agenda for privatization, with a specific emphasis on the performance of Distribution Companies (DisCos) in Pakistan’s power sector. Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad explained the government’s privatisation agenda, taking into account the legal mandate of the Caretaker Government, with the aim of assisting struggling DisCos and reducing the government’s financial burden through private sector investments. The Minister also stressed the need for a two step strategy for privatisation of DisCos, potentially involving a concessional model of management control with subsequent divestment strategy. Discussions with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) regarding a concession model for DisCos were highlighted. The Minister of Privatisation conveyed that he was actively engaged in discussions with the Minister of Energy to create a structured timeline for the divestment of DisCos, beginning with concession agreements. Both ministers mutually agreed that this approach represented the most suitable path forward. The Federal Minister also highlighted the current public opinion favouring privatization as a means to alleviate the financial burden on the national exchequer. Mr. Stolp reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to supporting different aspects of this transaction in the long term, emphasising the importance of a well-structured transaction template for the Distribution Companies. The World Bank’s team of energy specialists pledged to present a template for the most suitable mode of privatization for DisCos to Ministers of Energy and Privatisation within a week. This template would be refined with expert opinions to support ongoing power sector reform efforts. The meeting signifies a united effort to reform and privatise Pakistan’s power sector, with the primary goal of addressing financial challenges faced by DisCos while promoting economic growth and long-term sustainability. It is important to note that this is the second meeting between the minister and a representative of the IFC over the topic of SOEs. Pakistan’s SOE’s also featured in the Public Expenditure Review 2023, of the World Bank. The World Bank attributed unsuccessful privatisation efforts to factors such as economic volatility, judicial activism, litigation, weak political commitment, and concerns about corruption.
Imran’s message to supporters: ‘Don’t give up as time of trial to end soon’ ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Incarcerated chairman of Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan has reiterated his resolve that he would not back down even an inch from the quest of ‘Haqeeqi Azadi’ (real freedom), urging the nation to not give up, as this time of trial will end because whenever the election will be held the only destiny of this “unelected predatory group and their facilitators is defeat”. In his message to the “nation” from the jail, the former premier said: “Regardless of what prison they keep me in, whatever conditions they impose upon me, I will not back
down even an inch from the quest of Haqeeqi Azadi, for the upholding of the rule of law and the Constitution of Pakistan, at the core of which is free and fair elections.” In a statement released by PTI, Khan said: “Those suggesting that I leave the country, know that I will live and die in Pakistan, and I will not leave my land to go anywhere.” Talking about the cypher case, the official statement added, Khan stated that the bogus case was designed to protect former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa and US diplomat Donald Lu. “I was the elected prime minister of the country. Treason was committed against me and my government by General Bajwa, in-
stead of investigating the foreign conspiracy in orchestrating a regime change, a case has been filed against me for informing the people of Pakistan, the real protectors of this country, about this treason,” he added. “When I was illegally incarcerated in Attock Jail, the first few days were particularly challenging. I wasn’t provided a bed and had to sleep on the floor and had insects and mosquitoes all over me. But with time I have adjusted well to the prison conditions.” However, Khan said that let it be known that there’s world of difference between the Imran Khan of today and the one who was imprisoned on August 5, as today “I am stronger and fitter; spiritually, mentally and
physically than ever before.” The PTI chairman went on to say that during his time in incarceration, he has had the opportunity to study and research the Holy Quran in depth, along with other books which has strengthened his faith, besides he was able to introspect the last few years of his political life. However, Khan revealed that if there’s one thing that bothered and pained him was the suffering of his workers who had been “illegally” imprisoned, especially the women workers who had been in captivity for months, by a few people who abused their power to satisfy their egos. “I appeal to the judiciary to provide jus-
Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk
tice and order the immediate release of our workers,” Khan demanded. Khan urged his supporters: “Do not give up. This time of trial will end because Allah says that ‘with every difficulty there is ease’. Keep raising your voice against this unelected predatory group and their facilitators at every forum and keep demanding a fair and transparent election in the country”. “I am predicting that on whatever day the election is held, people of Pakistan will come out in huge numbers to vote for PTI and defeat all these parties combined. No matter how much these people cheat, their only destiny is defeat. Pakistan Zindabad,” the statement quoted him as saying.