Profit NAWAZ SAYS RETURNED TO ‘SAVE PAKISTAN’ In partnership with
Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 112 I 8 Pages I Islamabad Edition
Sunday, 22 October, 2023 I 5 Rabi us Sani, 1445
g
TERMS ‘GOOD TIES’ WITH NEIGHBOURS PREREQUISITE FOR COUNTRY’S DEVELOPMENT
P
g
LAHORE
g PML-N SUPREMO REACHED SAYS HE HAD SERVED g RECALLS HOW HIS GOVT COUNTRY WITH CONDUCTED NUCLEAR TESTS ISLAMABAD FROM DUBAI VIA LOYALTY WHENEVER IN 1998, STEERED COUNTRY CHARTERED FLIGHT AND THEN WAS GIVEN A CHANCE OUT OF DARKNESS IN 2014-15 PROCEEDED TO LAHORE
SALEEM JADOON
AKISTAN Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) supremo and former prime minister, Nawaz Sharif has termed the ‘good relations’ with neighbours vital for development of the country. The former PM who landed in Pakistan on Saturday after spending four years in selfimposed exile was addressing a historic ‘homecoming’ rally organized by the PMLN at Minar-e-Pakistan ground to celebrate the return of their leader. The PML-N leaders from across the country along with contingents of enthusiastic supporters attended the rally at Minar-ePakistan ground which was adorned with dazzling electric lighting. Nawaz Sharif while addressing the party leaders and activists said, “I am among you after several years but was proud of longstanding relationship with you and love you accorded to me.” The PML-N supremo noted that he had served the country with loyalty whenever he
was given a chance, adding that he had resolved the issues of Pakistan and never hesitated from any sacrifice.
PML-N chief succeeds in mobilising Lahoriites LAHORE
SHAHAB OMER
Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif made a triumphant return to Lahore, marking his presence with a massive rally that saw participation from all corners of the country. Departing from Lahore Airport via helicopter, Nawaz Sharif was headed to the rally site. A helipad, set up near the Shahi Qilla at Diwan Khas, awaited his arrival. After landing, he took a moment for prayer. Hamza Shahbaz accompanied Nawaz Sharif to the rally by car. On reaching the stage, Nawaz Sharif warmly greeted his brother, Shahbaz Sharif, and acknowledged other leaders. An emotional moment was witnessed when the former Prime Minister and his daughter, Maryam, shared a heartfelt embrace, both visibly emotional. Before the rally’s commencement, attendees honored the national anthem, followed by a Holy Quran recitation. The Minar-e-Pakistan Grounds featured
two stages. Nawaz Sharif addressed the audience from the primary stage near the Minar platform, while the MSF set up a secondary stage near the main entrance. Delegates from every province, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, gathered at the Jalsa site. Local leadership from all these areas, flanked by their local representatives, marked their presence. From dawn, groups of workers started gathering, their numbers peaking by afternoon. Many had arrived at Minar-e-Pakistan the day before, notably from Baluchistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir. To host these workers, tents were set up in Greater Iqbal Park, equipped with amenities for their stay. Each tent bore the name of its respective district, sorted by provinces and divisions. The majority of tents hailed from Faisalabad and Gujranwala. By daybreak, these tents were removed to enlarge the rally area.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
PM’s participation in BRF reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to CPEC, shared prosperity
ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar recently concluded his significant visit to China, which reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to timely completion of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, a flagship of Belt and Road Initiative, besides profusely advocating the need for collective efforts for regional connectivity and shared prosperity. The prime minister had been to Beijing, China to participate and address the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. Chinese President Xi opened the Forum with about 140 nations in attendance. Besides PM Kakar, the dignitaries at the forum included Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Republic of Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso, Papua New Guinean Prime Minister James Marape, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Argentina’s President Alberto Fernandez, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and Indonesian President Joko Widodo. Addressing the High-Level Forum of BRF titled ‘Connectivity in an Open Global Economy’, Prime Minister Kakar appreciated President Xi’s vision for creating a global community with shared future and the Belt -and-Road Initiative which held immense significance for global connectivity, common development and shared prosperity. The visit coincided with another milestone in the bilateral ties as the two countries are celebrating the 10th anniversary of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In his address, the caretaker prime minister highlighted the crucial role of
CPEC in generating new economic opportunities in Pakistan. Underscoring its salience for Pakistan’s robust economic development, he endorsed the Chinese proposal for developing CPEC as a corridor of growth, innovation, livelihood, green economy, openness and inclusiveness. He also underlined the need for a united global response to address complex transnational challenges faced by humankind and to prevent backsliding on the gains achieved under UN Sustainable Development Goals and 2030 Agenda. He emphasised the urgency of addressing infrastructure gaps in the developing world by investing in transportation, energy and digital economy. On the sidelines of the Forum, he also met with the leaders of different countries including Russia, Kenya and Sri Lanka. He also held meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang as well as the senior leadership of the Communist Party of China and discussed the ways forward to deepen bilateral relations. During his meeting with the Chinese president, the two sides, discussed various dimensions of the multi-faceted PakistanChina relationship, and reaffirmed their longstanding and steadfast friendship, allweather strategic cooperation, economic and trade ties, and CPEC. Caretaker Prime Minister Kakar, in a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, reaffirmed the time-tested and ironclad friendship between Pakistan and China and agreed to further strengthen high-level dialogue and engagement. “In a warm and cordial atmosphere, leaders of the two countries had in-depth exchanges of views and reached extensive consensus on strengthening the China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, practical cooperation in various areas, and international and regional issues of mutual interest,” a joint statement said. The two sides reaffirmed that mutual trust remained at the core of China-Pakistan relationship. During an interaction with the Chinese think tanks and scholars, the prime minister termed CPEC a manifestation of strategic relationship which proved as a “catalyst of growth, poverty alleviation and jobs creation”.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
He recalled regretted the “false” cases against him, PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif, party’s vice president and his daughter Maryam Nawaz and other party leaders. However, he said, no one abandoned the PML-N flag. “Who are they who separate Nawaz Sharif from his nation?” he asked, recalling making Pakistan a nuclear power and “ended” loadshedding in the country during his time as the prime minister. “Do you remember those 18 hours of loadshedding? Who ended it?” he asked, noting that it was under his leadership that the power issue was resolved. The former premier stressed that “some wounds never heal”, recalling how he couldn’t pay the final respects to his mother, father or wife despite repeated requests in jail. He said that these women won’t be there to receive him at his home like they did in the past. He then recalled the time when he was given the news of his wife’s death. Referring to Pakistan’s nuclear tests on May 28, 1998, the former premier said that then-United States president Bill Clinton and other world leaders pressured him not to conduct tests. “There will be record present in the Foreign Office that Bill Clinton offered me $5 billion in 1999 for not carrying out nuclear tests, but my conscience did not allow me to accept the thing which was against Pakistan’s favour,” he claimed.
“If someone else would have been in my place, could he have said this in front of the American president,” he added.
CAIRO/GAZA
then a lull until sirens sounded in the port city of Ashdod some 40 km north of the Palestinian enclave. There was no immediate word of casualties in either incident. Hamas on Friday freed Americans Judith Tai Raanan, 59, and her daughter Natalie, 17, who were among around 200 kidnapped in its Oct. 7 cross-border attack on southern Israel by militants of the Islamist movement. An image obtained by Reuters after their release showed the two women flanked by three Israeli soldiers and holding hands with Gal Hirsch, Israel’s coordinator for the captives and missing. They were the first hostages confirmed by both sides in the conflict to be freed. Israel has amassed tanks and troops near the fenced border around the small coastal enclave for a planned ground invasion with
Nawaz Sharif maintained that they conducted the nuclear tests and gave India a befitting response. “Are our [PML-N] governments toppled down and verdicts are issued against us for refusing the US and taking stance for the interest of Pakistan?,” he asked. Speaking of the inflation, the former premier compared how roti and petrol’s costs way higher today than when he was in power. “Was I ousted for this reason? It was said that Nawaz Sharif was ousted for not taking salary from his son,” he said. “You are the public, you tell, do you agree with such decision?” he asked the charged crowd at Minar-e-Pakistan jalsa. He further said that no one in Pakistan would be unemployed if his party was allowed to continue the “1990s economic model”. Unfortunately, he said, today, the condition was so bad that one has to think if they can feed their children or pay electricity bills. “People are committing suicide, and borrowing money to pay the bills.” “During my tenure, the poor had enough financial resources to at least to seek healthcare and get himself treated,” he claimed.
Return of proclaimed offender under ‘covert deal’ murder of justice: PTI ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Spokesperson dubbed the homecoming of the convicted proclaimed offender under a covert and clandestine deal as a “murder of justice” and “humiliation of the nation”. PTI spokesperson said that the national criminal, who should have been in jail, got bail within few minutes by trampling the justice system. He said that the convicted fugitive was given special concession to materialize the notorious London plan, as neither any judge had any health issue nor had any urgency to go on leave. PTI spokesperson said that fragility of our judicial system could be judged from the fact that a convicted person who escaped to London on a Rs 50 stamp paper was granted bail without court’s appearance. However, he recalled that, contrary to it, the country’s most popular leader, implicated in nearly 200 false cases, was denied bail sans appearing in person in the
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
court despite being injured. PTI spokesperson contended that the mothers and daughters of the nation, who have been imprisoned in the jails for the last 4 months in fabricated and bogus cases, were looking towards honorable judges for justice against unjustified delay in the proceedings of their cases. He called the wastage of the state resources worth billions of rupees on reception of a certified thief was an insult to the nation, adding that the warrant of the person who stole vehicles from Toshakhana was canceled without any objection. PTI Spokesman stated that it would be a joke with the country and the nation to pin hope of economic revival from those who build properties, palaces and factories abroad with the nation looted money. He made it clear that the person, who was responsible for the country’s economic catastrophe during his three stints of rule including the last 17-month-long devastating government, was actually a national criminal.
Palestinians demand ceasefire instead of food as aid arrives in Gaza amid Israeli bombing AGENCIES
First trucks bearing emergency humanitarian aid since Israel began a devastating siege of Gaza 12 days ago entered the enclave from Egypt on Saturday after further heavy Israeli bombardment overnight that killed dozens of Palestinians. Gaza’s Health Ministry says Israel’s brutal retaliatory air and missile strikes have killed at least 4,137 Palestinians, including hundreds of children, while over a million of the besieged territory’s 2.3 million people have been displaced. The United Nations said the convoy included life-saving supplies that would be received and distributed by the Palestinian Red Crescent. Palestinian group Hamas said the delivery included medicine and limited amounts of food but not fuel. Palestinian health officials said the lack of fuel was jeopardising the lives of patients including people injured by air strikes. Fourteen medical centres have already suspended operations for want of fuel. UN officials say at least 100 trucks daily are needed to cover urgent, life-saving needs and that any aid operation must be sustainable at scale – a tall order now with Israel carrying out devastating bombardments of the enclave day and night. Israel kept up heavy bombardment of ‘targets’ throughout Gaza overnight on Saturday after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to “fight until victory” following the release of the first two hostages by the enclave’s ruling Hamas group. After Netanyahu signalled no pause in Israel’s aerial onslaught and expected ground invasion, its military claimed fighter jets had struck a “large number of Hamas terror targets throughout the Gaza Strip” including command centres and combat positions inside multi-story buildings. Local media said Israeli aircraft had struck six homes in the north of Gaza, a coastal enclave that is one of the world’s most densely populated places, killing at least 19 people and injuring dozens. The Israeli military reported a fresh salvo of rockets from Gaza against southern Israeli border communities before dawn,
the objective of annihilating Hamas, after several inconclusive wars dating to its 2007 seizure of power in Gaza. “Two of our abductees are at home. We are not giving up on the effort to return all abducted and missing people,” Netanyahu said in a statement released late Friday night. “At the same time, we’ll continue to fight until victory.” Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas’ armed wing, said the hostages were released in part “for humanitarian reasons” in response to Qatari mediation efforts. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said achieving Israel’s objectives would not be quick or easy. “We will topple the Hamas organisation. We will destroy its military and governing infrastructure.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
Cairo summit ends without breakthrough
CAIRO: Arab leaders attending the Cairo Summit for Peace on Saturday condemned the Israeli bombardment of Gaza, while European nations emphasised the need to protect civilians amid relentless Israeli bombing. Notably, Israel and high-ranking US officials were absent from the meeting, and as a result, there was no consensus reached on how to contain the ongoing violence. The summit was initiated and hosted by Egypt, with the hope of gathering support for peace and reigniting efforts to address the long-standing Palestinian quest for statehood. Unfortunately, the meeting concluded without leaders and foreign ministers agreeing on a joint statement. This occurred two weeks into a conflict that has claimed the lives of thousands and resulted in a humanitarian crisis in the blockaded Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million people. Diplomats present at the talks had limited expectations of a breakthrough, as Israel was preparing for a ground invasion of Gaza with the goal of eliminating the militant Palestinian group Hamas, which had launched attacks on Israeli towns on October 7, causing the death of 1,400 people. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel’s airstrikes and missile strikes had, by that point, resulted in the deaths of at least 4,385 Palestinians since the Hamas attack. While Arab and Muslim nations called for an immediate halt to Israel’s offensive, Western countries generally focused on more modest objectives, such as providing humanitarian relief to civilians. King Abdullah of Jordan decried what he described as global silence regarding Israel’s attacks, which had led to the deaths of thousands in Hamas-ruled Gaza and left over a million people homeless. He called for a balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “The message the Arab world is hearing is that Palestinian lives matter less than Israeli ones,” he said, adding he was outraged and grieved by acts of violence waged against innocent civilians in Gaza, the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and Israel. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Palestinians would not be displaced or driven off their land. “We won’t leave, we won’t leave,” he told the summit. France called for a humanitarian corridor into Gaza that it said could lead to a ceasefire. Britain and Germany both urged Israel’s military to show restraint and Italy said it was important to avoid escalation. The United States, Israel’s closest ally and a vital player in all past peace efforts in the region, only sent its Cairo charge d’affaires who did not address the meeting in public. AGENCIES
02 NEWS
SIRAJ EMPHASIZES PROVIDING LEVEL PLAYING FIELD TO ALL POLITICAL PARTIES AHEAD OF POLLS
A
KHANEWAL
StAff rePort
MEER Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Sirajul Haq has emphasised the need of providing a level playing field to all political parties ahead of the polls. Address at a public gathering in Khanewal on Saturday, he warned that without such fairness, the upcoming elections would be marred by controversy, and the resulting outcome would be difficult for anyone to accept. Sirajul Haq underscored the critical role that the Election Commission and the caretaker government must play in ensuring the future stability of the nation. He emphasized the importance of their commitment to upholding their constitutional duty to conduct free and fair elections.
JI vice-emir Liaqat Baloch also spoke on occasion and emphasized the urgency of the ECP announcing the schedule for the national vote. After the conclusion of the Khanewal mass meeting, Haq is scheduled to embark on a two-day visit to Sindh. The JI chief highlighted that the country has been under the influence of a select few families and individuals, mainly comprised of feudal lords and capitalists, for
New meteorological observing station being planned in Gwadar ISLAMABAD
StAff rePort
It is expected that by the end of October, a meteorological observing station built under the cooperation between China and Pakistan will be seen in Gwadar Port, Chinese media reported on Saturday quoting sources from China Meteorological Administration (CMA). Recently a batch of brand-new meteorological equipment was already shipped to Gwadar Port, through the Khunjerab Pass, a key land border crossing the two countries at Khunjerab, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. “This will not only help enhance the meteorological observation capacity of BRI partner countries and regions, but also help them improve the monitoring and early warning capacity of typhoons and other catastrophic weather, and provide decisionmaking support for disaster prevention and mitigation,” the sources noted. China and Pakistan are important members of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Regional Association II. Bilateral cooperation between the two countries is of vital significance for meteorological development in Asia.
Pakistan Sweet Home organizes blood donation camp in High Tech Taxila ISLAMABAD APP
Pakistan Sweet Home Blood Bank and Zamurrad Khan (Hilal e Imtiaz) here on Saturday organized a grand blood donation camp at High Tech Texela with a mission to save innocent lives. A large number of young students donated blood at the camp. Addressing on the occasion, Head of Pakistan Sweet Home, Zamurrad Khan said that youth were the valuable assets of the country and the nations who sacrifice for their countrymen can change the destiny of the country. He that today, he was extremely happy to see that the students of High Tech were fully engaged in the great mission of saving innocent lives by donating blood in large numbers. Our youth is second to none in selfless service to humanity. The spirit of service among the youth is admirable. Today, the selfless spirit of serving humanity has won the hearts of young students, he expressed. Zamurrad Khan said donating blood is a great continuous charity and an act of worship. Innocent children fighting with thalassemia, hemophilia and blood cancer while we are not alone. If I have to travel all over Pakistan for these children, I will go from city to city and collect blood donations for them, he said and added I am extremely grateful to the students, especially the administration, who responded to my voice today and participated in this good cause. Undoubtedly, the young students always donated blood in large numbers for Thalassemia affected children in every difficult situation, he said. He appealed to other educational institutions, colleges and universities including engineers, professors and lawyers and people from all walks of life and other circles to support us in this great journey of service to humanity and be our companions in this good work.
the past 75 years. Those who portray themselves as saviours before the nation are, in fact, responsible for the dire circumstances faced by the people, he added. Siraj said the rulers who remained in power for decades had always prioritized their interests over those of the country. Their actions, he said, had weakened the democracy and damaged the national economy. He said the past governments had relied heavily on foreign loans, which they often spent to fund their personal luxuries and protocols. The flawed policies of previous administrations, he said, have led to a surge in inflation and unemployment, burdening the common man with additional taxes to offset national debts. The elite themselves, he said, always managed to evade substantial tax obligations. The JI leader lamented that the pervasive inflation has rendered the life of an or-
dinary citizen exceedingly difficult, with many struggling to make ends meet. He said that a significant portion of the population continues to grapple with challenges such as lack of access to clean drinking water and the inability to send their children to school, primarily due to poverty. Highlighting the plight of southern Punjab, he said the infrastructure and dilapidated roads in the area were telling the stories of the inability of the past governments. He criticized the prevalent culture of broken promises by ruling parties and local feudal lords, who have failed to address the persistent issues faced by the region. Assuring a resolution to the challenges faced by southern Punjab upon assuming power, Siraj urged the people to elect courageous and honest leadership in the upcoming elections. The JI, he said, was the only political party which could put the country on track.
Security tightened in Lahore as thousands reach Lahore to welcome Nawaz LAHORE
StAff rePort
Security has been heightened in the wake of PML-N Quaid Nawaz Sharif’s arrival in the city where thousands of his supporters have gathered to welcome their leader. The caravans from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Jhelum, Peshawar, Quetta, Hyderabad, DI Khan, Muzafarabad, Gilgit and other parts of the country reached Lahore’s Minar-e-Pakistan where former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was to address a public meeting to mark his return to the country after four years of self-exile. Police sources said that 10,000 security personnel had been deployed from airport to Minar-e-Pakistan to provide security to the caravan of Nawaz Sharif. Similarly, 3,000 traffic wardens were also deployed to keep the traffic flow smooth and divert vehicular traffic to alternative routes. Meanwhile, caravans from across the country are continuously arriving in Lahore and the administration had made arrangements for parking of vehicles at Bund Road, Larri Adda and near Ring Road. Monitoring of caravans and venue of PML-N rally (Minar-e-Pakistan) was carried out through CCTV cameras. According to police, vigilant security personnel will be guarding the route from Lahore airport to Minar-e-Pakistan. The personnel of the law enforce-
ment agencies in plainclothes were deployed on entry and exit points of the city besides patrolling on main routes of the city had also been increased. Sources said monitoring of the whole rally was carried out through Safe City Authority’s CCTV cameras and local cameras installed for the purpose. Search operations were conducted by the security agencies around venue of the rally. To oversee the security arrangements, CTO Lahore and Lahore DIG operations had a tour of the Minar-ePakistan late on Friday night. Meanwhile, thousands of PML-N workers had reached Lahore to welcome their leader and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif who returned to Pakistan after four years. A special train from Sukkur reached Lahore in after-
noon while another train from KPK ‘Umeed-e-Pakistan’ was brought hundreds of party to Lahore. A special train from Sukkur will reach Lahore today afternoon while another train from KPK ‘Umeed-e-Pakistan’ is also on its way to Lahore. A large number of PML-N workers were seen at Minar-e-Pakistan last night when Shehbaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz and Hamza Shehbaz visited the venue to review the arrangements. They were dancing to the tunes of drumbeats in jubilation. Meanwhile, the PML-N had arranged more than 40,000 chairs at Minar-e-Pakistan for the public address of Nawaz Sharif. Heavy lights, music and large screens had also been arranged to telecast the address of the former PM “who delivered the most important speech of his political career.”
CM directs to study viability of plastic roads in Sindh KARACHI APP
Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar presiding over a meeting of the Works & Services department directed to study the viability of the concept of the plastic road by comparing the same with the world’s best practices. This he said while reviewing the development portfolio of the Works & Services Department here at CM House. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Dr. Fakhre Alam, Chairman P&D Shakil Mangnejio, PSCM Hassan Naqvi, Secretary Finance Kazim Jatoi, Secretary Works & Service Nawaz Sohoo, and other concerned officers. Secretary Works Nawaz Sohoo briefing the CM said that in the ADP 2023-24 there were 956 schemes with an allocation of Rs 89,500.5 million against which Rs 39026.73 million have been released while the expenditures made so far come to Rs18089 million. The Secretary Works briefed the CM about the progress of inspections, its observations, and findings along with recommendations conducted by him and his office in various districts of Sindh. He also showed the CM a new
inspection proforma, and its parameters developed by the department. The CM directed the Works department to add a new column in the inspection report proforma to reflect the `causes and details about the revision of the scheme/project.’ He also directed the works department to include a column in the inspection proforma about the performance of the contractor and officers involved in that project. For this purpose, the CM said that the services of any renowned engineering University could be hired for third-party inspection and validation of any chosen development scheme/project. Baqar directed the works dept to take stern departmental action against the delinquent officers involved in cor-
rupt practices and causing poor work of different development projects. He also directed the department to rationalize the proposed inspection mechanism, where the Secretary would visit schemes categorized as of high importance so that the efficiency and effectiveness of inspections may be increased. He categorically told the works department that there would be zero tolerance for sub-standard work and those involved must be taken to the task. Secretary W&S briefed about the PWD Manual and mandate assigned to various field formations/offices of the department. He also informed the CMN about the monitoring mechanism of various projects. At this, CM Baqar directed that for every major development project, there should be digital recordings, images, or videos at every stage of the project. The recorded data can be stored in the archives in the shape of DVDs or in USB form. The secretary briefed the CM about his field visits to inspect the development schemes of Road / Buildings Sectors of districts Badin, Tharparkar, Umerkot, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Matiari, Hyderabad, and Sanghar.
Sunday, 22 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
From Kashmir to Palestine: Occupation is a crime: WKAF & KDC WASHINGTON AgenCieS
The World Kashmir Awareness Forum (WKAF) and the Kashmir Diaspora Coalition (KDC) has issued the joint statement in solidarity with the Palestinian brothers and sisters in Gaza, on whom the Netanyahu regime has been waging a destructive war. Expressing horror and shock at the ongoing human catastrophe in Gaza, WKAF and KDC Board while condemning said, “the relentless Israeli bombing of one of the most densely populated civilian populations of the world for two weeks non-stop, deliberately targeting innocent civilians’ targets — homes, hospitals, and schools where there is nowhere to escape and hide. The most horrific bombing on October 18 on Al-Ahli Hospital killed over 500 innocent people, including patients, healthcare workers, and doctors”. The statement said “the Palestinians have been living under 76 years of brutal Israeli occupation, settler-colonialism, and an apartheid state. With a combination of forcible internal and external displacement, including the tiny, isolated enclave of Gaza which has been described by the international human rights organizations as “the world’s largest open-air prison.” “These atrocities and mass killings in Palestine resonate with the people of the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), who have been denied their right to self-determination”. “Implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions #43, #46 and # 48 in 1948 on Palestine, and UN Security Council resolution #47 in 1948 on Kashmir must be respected and implemented in both nations to bring about lasting peace in both conflicts. In the meantime, UN Security Council must urge an immediate ceasefire to stop the bloodshed of Palestinians and Israelis,” WKAF and KDC Boards concluded. ABOUT WKAF: Founded in 2005, WKA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Washington, DC. It is focused on providing knowledge and information and advocating for the disenfranchised Kashmiris in the Kashmir conflict. It gathers and disseminates the latest news and information through the media and website— info@kashmirawareness.org ABOUT KDC: Founded in October 2022, at the Baku, Azerbaijan declaration, the Kashmir Diaspora Coalition is a six-member international coalition with offices in Washington DC, Canada, London, and Istanbul. It is committed to promoting the right to self-determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir using all peaceful and democratic means in accordance with the International Law and multiple UN Security Council resolutions.
Authorities seal sheesha cafes to enforce Islamabad High Court’s order ISLAMABAD APP
In a move to ensure public safety, authorities in Islamabad have sealed several Sheesha Cafes in different areas of the city in compliance of orders from the Islamabad High Court. The Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon, said that the owners of cafes are strictly prohibited from serving sheesha to customers until the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination (NHSR & C) clarified the rules and regulations regarding the use of sheesha in public places. The Assistant Commissioners city took action against the sheesha cafes in different areas under their jurisdiction, sealing two in F-6 and F-7 and one in Bahria Town. The crackdown on sheesha cafes comes after a series of incidents in recent years in which people have been badly affected by use of sheesha smoking. The Islamabad High Court had earlier ordered the authorities to take action against sheesha cafes, citing concerns over public safety. The court had directed the NHSR&C to clarify the rules and regulations regarding the use of sheesha. The sealing of the sheesha cafes has been welcomed by many residents of Islamabad, who have been calling for strict measures to be put in place. However, some cafe owners have expressed their concerns over the move, saying that it will hurt their businesses.
Pak, Korea tied in strong bonds of mutual respect, cultural values: Jamal Shah ISLAMABAD
StAff CorreSPondent
Caretaker Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Jamal Shah has said that Pakistan and South Korea are tied together in strong bonds of mutual respect and admiration for each other’s cultural ethos. While addressing Migrant Multicultural Festival (MAMF) 2023 being held in Changwon city of South Korea from October 20 to 22, he said that our Cultural Art Troupe from Pakistan and the Korean Performance Team are here as performers and ambassadors of their respective rich traditions and heritage. “I am immensely pleased to be part of this special cultural concert – a highlight of the Migrant Arrirang Multi-Cultural Festival 2023, in the dynamic city of Changwon.” Jamal Shah said that the Cultural Art Troupe from Pakistan and the Korean Performance Team carry with them stories of their land, tales of their people and spirit of
their traditions, adding that through the universal language of music and dance, they will weave together narratives of two great nations, evoking emotions that transcend borders. He said that this special event promises to be an enchanting blend of traditional rhythms and melodies, bringing the cultures of Pakistan and Korea together. The caretaker federal minister said that Pak-Korea cultural exchanges date back hundreds of years. “Buddhism and its rich tapestry of traditions and life lessons was brought to the ancient Baekje Kingdom, from what is now Pakistan, by Monk Maranantha almost two millennia ago,” he said adding that today we witness this bond come alive again, as our artists take center stage. Jamal Shah said that while we are on the topic of cultural exchanges, I am excited to share another delightful piece of news, adding that in the spirit of reciprocity and to further fortify our cultural ties, we have also
invited Korean Cultural and Art Troupe to visit and perform in Pakistan. “We eagerly await their visit. It will be an opportunity for the people of Pakistan to experience the rich traditions of art and culture from Korea, just as we share our own with you tonight,” he said. The Minister appreciated the organizers of MAMF, the City Government of Changwon, and all individuals and institutions that have made this possible. “Through such platforms, we sow the seeds of lasting friendship, promoting harmony, understanding and unity amongst nations,” he said. MAMF is the largest cultural diversity festival in South Korea celebrating its 18th anniversary at Changwon Yongi Cultural Park and Seogsan Art Hall. The countries from all over Asia including Pakistan carrying different cultures, heritage and values are participating in the diverse festival MAMF 2023. Pakistan is leading MAMF 2023 with
theme “Pakistan Zindabad” means “Long Live Pakistan” presenting its cultural beauty and values through traditional clothes, accessories,
Henna, Traditional music like Dhol, Anthem, Zindabad and traditional dance performance like Bhangra, Dhamal, Luddi and so on.
NEWS 03
FINALLY! IMRAN SPEAKS TO SONS ON PHONE FROM ADIALA JAIL Sunday, 22 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
I
ISLAMABAD
Monitoring report
N compliance with court directives, incarcerated PTI Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday was allowed to talk to sons on telephone from Adiala Jail. According to sources, the emotional exchange left both of Khan’s sons – Qasim and Sulaiman deeply moved. During the call, the former prime minister was observed smiling and offering words of consolation to his sons in an effort to uplift their spirits. According to sources in the jail, this special telephonic interaction took place via WhatsApp, commencing at 4:30pm and lasted until 5:00pm. The arrangement was made in accordance with the orders of Special Court Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain.
Awn Chaudhry lands in trouble after meeting Nawaz Sharif LAHORE
Staff report
Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) Additional Secretary General Aun Chaudhry landed in trouble for meeting PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif at airport. According to the party’s spokesperson, the IPP has issued a show cause notice to its Additional Secretary General Aun Chaudhry in response to meeting Nawaz Sharif. The spokesperson said that an explanation has been sought from the party’s senior leader. IPP also dissociated itself from Aun Chaudhary’s meeting with former prime minister. It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrived in Pakistan after four years of self-imposed exile in London. PML-N supremo reached Lahore’s historic Minar-e-Pakistan monument, the venue for a grand rally of the PML-N to welcome the former premier, in a helicopter after landing in Lahore from Islamabad. PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif and former finance minister Ishaq Dar were accompanying the former premier on the trip. PTI’S MEHMOODUR RASHEED’S JUDICIAL REMAND EXTENDED: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) has extended the judicial remand of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Mian Mehmoodur Rasheed. As per details, the judicial remand was extended in connection with the vandalism at PML-N office in Model Town case. The ATC extended the judicial remand for 14 days and ordered to present Mian Mehmoodur Rasheed on November 4. Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activist Sanam Javed Khan was rearrested shortly after the anti-terrorism court discharged her in the Askari Tower attack case. As per details, the PTI activist was rearrested from the court premises in another case related to vandalizing the PML-N office. The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) earlier issued the release order of the PTI activist Sanam Javed. The PTI activist, who was allegedly involved in creating a lawand-order disturbance and attacking Jinnah House following the arrest of party chief Imran Khan on May 9, was arrested outside the prison. The ATC issued release orders after the approval of the surety bonds in the case. Sanam Javed was granted bail in the May 9 riots case.
Man guns down brother, his wife over ‘honour’ in Karachi KARACHI
Staff report
The police on Saturday arrested a man for allegedly killing his brother and sister-in-law for honour in the city. According to the police, the incident took place in Karachi’s Jeddah Hazara Colony, wherein a man gunned down his brother – who belonged to Swat – and sister-in-law over “honour”. During the initial probe, the police said, the suspect said he killed his younger brother’s wife over ‘honour’. When the brother intervened, the arrested accused killed him as well, the police added. After killing them, the suspect sat there until the police arrived. He surrendered to the police officials, who reached the spot. Meanwhile, the bodies had been shifted to Dr Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital to fulfil legal formalities. Earlier in August, a man shot dead his daughter and a boy over ‘honour’ in Karachi. Two bodies of a 17-year-old girl and a 20 years old boy were found in a car near Karachi’s Al-Asif Square.
It’s worth noting that the same judge had issued the order on Wednesday, permitting Imran Khan to engage in telephonic conversations with his sons, who reside in the United Kingdom with the former PM’s exwife, Jemima Goldsmith. The application for this arrangement had been submitted by the PTI chief through his counsel, Shiraz Ahmed Ranjha. Imran Khan is currently detained at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail and is facing trial under the Official Secrets Act, 1923. He is accused of allegedly misusing a diplomatic cypher during his last days as prime minister. Prior to his incarceration at Adiala Jail, Imran had been held at Attock Jail after his conviction in the Toshakhana case on August 5. Subsequently, the Islamabad High Court suspended his sentence, but he was not released and was shifted to Adiala Jail due to
his judicial remand in the cypher case under the Official Secrets Act. Notably, the superintendent of the jail had initially refused to allow Imran Khan to communicate with his sons, citing the prohibition of phone calls for individuals charged under the Official Secrets Act, as per the jail manual. However, the court emphasized the need for the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to be provided for arranging such telephonic conversations, and the matter was to be discussed once the SOPs were received. Imran Khan’s counsel raised concerns about the delay in providing the SOPs and also expressed the desire to send an indoor cycling bike to the PTI chief for exercise within his prison cell. The judge acknowledged his previous directive to provide the exercise machine to the accused.
PML-N chief succeeds in mobilising Lahoriites CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
Beside these tents, the Muslim Students Federation (MSF) established a convention and preparation zone. Biryani was available for workers and as usual many workers took more than one biryani box. By midday, the rally grounds were alive with energy. Food deliveries started around 3 pm. intriguingly, party insiders mentioned that the meals weren’t funded by PML-N. Instead, local leaders, including UC chairmen and MNAs, took responsibility. There was no specific dining area, but food was distributed continuously. With Nawaz Sharif’s arrival, security measures in Lahore intensified. According to police sources, 10,000 officers were deployed to ensure security from the airport to Minar-e-Pakistan. Additionally, over three thousand traffic wardens were assigned to manage traffic and provide alternate routes. Parking was arranged near Band Road, Lari Adda, and Ring Road. The rally and its surroundings were under CCTV surveillance, with security checkpoints from Lahore Airport to the
rally site. Uniformed police patrolled various areas, and the entire event was monitored via Safe City cameras. According to PML-N, there were claims that ‘one million’ people had gathered in Greater Iqbal Park. However, a senior official from the law enforcement agency detailed the various techniques they employ to estimate the number of attendees at an event. “One approach involves measuring the length and width of the designated event area and converting this into square meters,” he said. He further elaborated, “A general rule of thumb is that one square meter can accommodate three individuals. So, for an area spanning one thousand square meters, it can hold up to 30,000 attendees.” He mentioned that one of the initial steps taken by law enforcement teams is to count the number of chairs at the venue. This count provides a preliminary estimate of the expected turnout. Based on this, security measures are put in place. Another step involves a discreet measurement of the event space, which is then converted into square meters. The senior security officer added, “An alternative method involves tally-
ing entries at walk-through gates. Officers stationed at these points keep a count, and the total is later aggregated to provide an estimate.” Another official highlighted the role of technology, “Modern software solutions are now available that can capture images of the crowd and process them to identify faces, subsequently providing an estimated count.” He also pointed out a novel approach, “This technology can also gauge the number of mobile phones connecting to nearby cell towers during the event, offering another method for crowd estimation.” Yet, political factions often boast about their ability to pack the Minar-ePakistan ground or the Greater Iqbal Park during their political power show. This, however, might be an inflated claim. According to the administrative body of Greater Iqbal Park, the portion of the Minar-e-Pakistan ground allocated for political assemblies spans approximately 15 acres. After setting aside space for VVIP parking and stage surroundings, a mere 11 to 12 acres remain accessible for the crowd. Employing the aforementioned estimation techniques, this space can feasibly host up to 150,000 attendees.
Nawaz says returned to ‘save Pakistan’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif clarified that these tough economic conditions weren’t created during the Shehbaz-led government but traced back to a long time. “During our tenure sugar was 50 rupees per kilogram, today it is at 250,” he said, adding: “Pakistan was on its way to becoming an Asian tiger, we were preparing to ensure Pakistan’s inclusion in the G20.” Earlier, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif reached Islamabad from Dubai via a chartered flight. After landing at Islamabad airport, Sharif proceeded to the airport’s VIP lounge alongside party leader Ishaq Dar, to sign legal documents and complete biometric formalities. The PML-N supremo stayed at Islamabad International Airport for over one hour where he signed documents and held consultation with his lawyers. Notable leaders, including Maryam Nawaz, have already joined the rally, and Nawaz Sharif himself has arrived in
Lahore from Islamabad, where he was warmly received by his brother, Shahbaz Sharif. A helicopter transported him to the historic Shahi Fort. ‘We symbolise May 28, not May 9’ Earlier, PML-N- supremo Nawaz Sharif on Saturday said they represented May 28, not May 9 – a reference to the nuclear tests conducted during his stint as prime minister in 1998 and the PTI’s role in the violence earlier this year. “We are of May 28; we are not of May 9,” he told reporters at the airport before his historic departure for Islamabad after spending four years in self-exile. The three-time prime minister questioned whether they could see the old Pakistan, as he referred to the current state of affairs when compared to the period before his ouster. Back then, bread was available for Rs4 with the provision of free-cost medicines, he added. Why the matters had reached this point, he regretted. “It shouldn’t have had happened.” Nawaz reminded the reporters that he had left the matter up to Almighty
Allah and returning to the country as victorious, adding that he and his daughter – Maryam Nawaz were – jailed in bogus cases. He described the country’s current top electoral body as a “fair” Election Commission, which, he added, was authorised when to call polls in the country. The Commission would hold free and fair elections, the PML-N supremo expressed the hope. Later, Nawaz departed from Dubai in a chartered plane which will land in Islamabad in the afternoon. He will stay at the airport for an hour during which he will hold legal consultations. He will then leave for Lahore to receive a warm welcome by the party supporters. While in the plane, one of the passengers asked Nawaz he had been removed from power whenever he ensured progress and development in Pakistan. The former prime minister smiled and replied in Urdu poetry, which can best be translated as: “Perhaps you may be regretting my removal, I have returned to the gathering with the assumption.”
PML-N supremo to file appeals in IHC on 23rd ISLAMABAD
Staff report
PML-N supremo and former premier Nawaz Sharif will file appeals in the Islamabad High Court on October 23 (Monday) against the prison terms handed down to him in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption references. Amjad Pervez, a member of Nawaz’s legal team, has confirmed that the appeals would be filed in the court on Monday. He added that the PML-N supremo met with his lawyers at the lounge of the Islamabad airport on his return to the country and discussed his legal issues with them. He later signed the application for the restoration of his appeals in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia Steel Mills cases. A team of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) present there also recorded his biometrics and handed over its receipt to the legal team for its submission to the court. The PML-N supremo’s legal team members, who met him at the Islamabad airport, included former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Parvez and Qazi Misbah. Exfinance minister Ishaq Dar and other party leaders were present on the occasion as well. The PML-N supremo after having tea at the airport left for Lahore. In June 2021, the IHC dismissed Nawaz’s appeals against his conviction in the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) corruption references over his continuous failure to appear before the court. An IHC division bench, comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, dismissed the former premier’s appeals in the Avenfield and AlAzizia references as he, despite being on bail, went abroad, remained absent on the hearings and did not appear before the court without any justification. The judges, however, stated that the appellant might file an application before the IHC, as and when he surrenders or is captured by the authorities, for a decision on the appeals. On July 6, 2018, an accountability court convicted the PML-N supremo in the Avenfield reference and sentenced him to 10 years in prison. Subsequently on December 24, 2018, another accountability court convicted him in the AlAzizia reference and sentenced him to seven years imprisonment. The IHC in its order observed that Nawaz had filed appeals against the judgments and was released on bail. Later, it continued, he failed to surrender and was declared an absconder after following the codal formalities for procuring his attendance.
PM’s participation in BRF reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to CPEC, shared prosperity CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
Caretaker prime minister also held a meeting with President of Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, on the margins of 3rd BRF. The two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation with a special focus on trade, investment and energy and expressed satisfaction with the steady expansion of Pakistan-Russia relations. They also discussed the prospects of enhancing Eurasian connectivity and Pakistan’s pivotal role in regional integration through rail, road and energy corridors. On the sidelines of the BRF, the caretaker prime minister met President of Kazakhstan, Kassym Jomart Tokayev and President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. He also met Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of 3rd Belt and Road Forum and
discussed the Gaza situation. Besides, the prime minister held meetings with the leading Chinese companies and encouraged their corporate executives to explore the vast investment potential of Pakistan. These included CEOs and executives of Chinese enterprises Minmetals, MCC, China Communication Construction Company (CCCC), China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), COFCO, Amer International Group, Power China, China Energy and China Gezhouba Group. The prime minister apprised the Chinese businessmen of the Pakistan’s initiatives for economic and financial stability. Sharing Pakistan’s vision for sustainable and inclusive development, he outlined Pakistan’s investor-friendly policies; including the establishment of Special Investment Facilitation Council, which would act as a one-window platform to fa-
cilitate foreign investment. During the visit, the United Energy Group of China and Pakistan Refinery Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the investment worth $1.5 billion in the petroleum sector. The MoU will help increase the petrol production capacity of the refinery from 250,000 metric tons to 1.6 million metric tons and high-speed diesel from 0.6 million metric tons to 2 million metric tons. During the visit, the two sides signed 20 agreements and MoUs, covering cooperation on the BRI, infrastructure, mining, industry, green and low-carbon development, health, space cooperation, digital , development cooperation and export of agricultural products to China. On the last leg of the visit, the prime minister visited Urumqi and met Member of Politburo of CPC’s Central Committee Ma Xingrui besides addressing the stu-
dents at Xinjiang University. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the mining industry, including in the fields of geological survey, joint research on geology and minerals, training of talent, and planning of mining industrial parks, IT, industrialization and agriculture sectors as well. Earlier, the caretaker prime minister also attended a state banquet hosted by President Xi Jinping for world leaders attending the 3rd Belt and Road Forum in China. Held at the iconic Great Hall of the Peoples, the State Banquet was attended by the Heads of State/Government of Russia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mongolia, Hungary, Sri Lanka, Kazhakastan, Uzbekistan, Papua New Guinea, Mozambique and Chile, among several other world leaders. At the banquet, the prime minister was welcomed by President Xi and First Lady Madame Peng Liyuan.
Palestinians demand ceasefire instead of food as aid arrives in Gaza amid Israeli bombing CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
It’s a phase that will not be easy. It will have a price,” Gallant told a parliamentary committee.He added that the subsequent phase would be more drawn out, but was aimed at achieving “a completely different security situation” with no threat to Israel from Gaza. “It’s not a day, it’s not a week, and unfortunately it’s not a month,” he said. Heavy bombardment: The Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the main Palestinian Christian denomination, said that Israeli forces had struck the Church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza City, where hundreds of Christians and Muslims had sought refuge. The Israeli military said part of the church was damaged in a strike on a nearby “militant command centre”. Israel has already told all civilians to evacuate the northern half of the Gaza
Strip, which includes Gaza City. Many people have yet to leave saying they fear losing everything and have nowhere safe to go with southern areas also under attack. Asked if Israel had so far followed the laws of war in its response, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated on Friday that Israel had the right to defend itself and make sure Iran-backed Hamas was not able to launch attacks again. “It’s important that operations be conducted in accordance with international law, humanitarian law, the law of war,” he said. The United Nations humanitarian affairs office said more than 140,000 homes – nearly a third of all homes in Gaza – had been damaged, with nearly 13,000 completely destroyed. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees said Saturday that at least 17 of its staff had been killed in the Gaza war, warning that the death toll
would likely rise. “To date, 17 of our colleagues have been confirmed killed in this vicious war. Very sadly, the actual numbers are likely to be higher,” UNRWA said in a statement. International attention has focused on getting aid to Gaza through the one access point not controlled by Israel, the Rafah crossing to Egypt. Biden, who visited Israel on Wednesday, said he believed trucks carrying aid would get through in the next 24-48 hours. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres toured the checkpoint on Egypt’s side on Friday and called for a meaningful number of trucks to enter Gaza daily, and checks – which Israel insists on to stop aid reaching Hamas – to be quick and pragmatic. Western leaders have so far mostly offered support to Israel’s campaign against Palestinians, although there is
mounting unease about the plight of civilians in Gaza. Many Muslim states, however, have called for an immediate ceasefire, and protests demanding an end to the bombardment were held in cities across the Islamic world on Friday. In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where violence has escalated since Israel began bombarding Gaza, Israeli troops shot dead a Palestinian teenager during clashes near the city of Jericho. Since the Israel-Hamas war erupted, the borderlands between south Lebanon and northern Israel have also seen constant but so far limited clashes between the Israeli military and fighters from the Lebanese group Hezbollah. The Israeli military said on Saturday a soldier had been killed by a missile attack on the Lebanese border, in a statement that did not elaborate on the exact time or location.
9
04 COMMENT
Sunday, 22 October, 2023
Customer service skill: A definite way to promote businesses
Coming home
I
Mian Nawaz Sharif’s return home does not answer as many questions as it raises
C
T must be a relief to PML(N) insiders that the return of party supremo Mian Nawaz Sharif played out according to plan, even though that plan was more complicated than a simple arrival would have between, because Mr Sharif had to stop over in Islamabad to complete certain legal at a solution for the problems of the coformalities, a reminder to him, his friends, and the whole nation watching on, that he was out on bail. That his status as a convict undergoing imprisonment did not cause any hiccups is a tribute to the skills of his legal team, but more importantly, to the readiness of those who facilitated his return as well as his exile. Mr Sharif’s return in such good order showed once again how there is never anything final in politics, and how fortunes can be turned around. If nothing else, whatever the results of the coming election, Mr Sharif is proof that no one can ever be written off. It is a useful lesson for PTI chief Mr Imran Khan, who is currently on trial in the cipher case, in jail, convicted in another case, and about to face cases related to the May 9 attacks. It was perhaps a tribute to Mian Nawaz’s political sagacity that he did not use the opportunity to pitch in to Mr Khan, though his speech at Minar-i-Pakistan did make a very pointed comparison between Mr Khan’s government and his own. This refusal to target his main electoral opponent will help restore some of the dignity in political discourse lost to the name calling of the recent past when Mr Khan’s party went for its opponents bald-headed. Perhaps Mr Sharif’s critics will pick on his lack of specifics on how he plans to tackle the country’s biggest problem, the economy. Though his return is supposed to be because the powers that be want him to resume the prime ministership, there is potential for a clash there, because there might be a difference of views in how the economy is to be managed. It is all the more necessary for him to present a coherent plan of action, because if the party did not do present one it might not have as much success at the hustings as it hopes. The nation is no longer willing to be swept off its feet by any hybrid conman. Mr Sharif must have more than the private agenda of attaining a fourth prime ministership; he must have a better solution to the country’s problems than represented by Senator Ishaq Dar, whose closeness to Mr Sharif was so noticeable.
Customer service is important in today’s world
USTOMER service skills are crucial for building and maintaining positive relationships with customers. They are applicable across various industries and play a significant role in shaping the overall customer experience. Some essential customer service skills are:
COMMUNICATION SKILLS: A. VERBAL COMMUNICATION: Clear and effective communication is essential. Customer service representatives need to articulate information in a way that is easy for customers to understand. B. ACTIVE LISTENING: Paying attention to customers’ needs and concerns is critical. This helps in providing relevant and helpful responses. Empathy: C. UNDERSTANDING AND SHARING THE FEELINGS OF CUSTOMERS IS CRUCIAL: Empathetic responses can go a long way in building trust and rapport. D. Patience: Dealing with frustrated or upset customers requires patience. It’s important to remain calm and composed, even in challenging situations. E. PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS: The ability to analyze situations and come up with effective solutions is vital. Customer service representatives should be resourceful and proactive in addressing issues. F. PRODUCT/SERVICE KNOWLEDGE: A good understanding of the company’s products or services allows representatives to provide accurate information and guidance. G. TIME MANAGEMENT: Efficiently managing time is essential, especially in fast-paced customer service environments. This involves balancing the needs of multiple customers while maintaining quality service. H. ADAPTABILITY: Being adaptable to different customer personalities, preferences, and situations is crucial. Flexibility in handling various scenarios contributes to positive customer interactions. I. POSITIVITY: Maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude, even in challenging situations, can help diffuse tension and create a more pleasant customer experience. J. CONFLICT RESOLUTION: Addressing conflicts and finding resolutions in a diplomatic manner is important. This skill helps in turning negative experiences into positive ones.
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
Arif Nizami (Late)
Customer service skills offer a wide range of benefits for both individuals and businesses: A. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: Effective customer service skills contribute directly to customer satisfaction. Satisfied customers are more likely to remain loyal and become repeat buyers.
Founding Editor
Yousaf Nizami Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi Joint Editor
A
Executive Editor
Dr rajkumar Singh
B. CUSTOMER LOYALTY: Providing excellent customer service builds trust and fosters loyalty. Customers who feel valued are more likely to continue doing business with a company. C. POSITIVE BRAND IMAGE: Good customer service enhances the brand image. Customers who have positive experiences are likely to share them, contributing to positive word-of-mouth marketing. D. INCREASED SALES AND REVENUE: Satisfied customers are more likely to make additional purchases and recommend products or services to others, thereby boosting sales and revenue. E. REDUCED CUSTOMER CHURN: Effective customer service helps in retaining customers. By addressing issues promptly and providing solutions, companies can reduce customer churn rates. F. COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: In competitive markets, excellent customer service can be a differentiator. Companies that prioritize customer service often stand out from their competitors. G. BRAND DIFFERENTIATION: Customer service skills contribute to brand distinctiveness. A positive and memorable customer experience sets a company apart from others in the same industry. H. CUSTOMER FEEDBACK AND IMPROVEMENT: Engaging with customers through effective communication allows companies to gather valuable feedback. This feedback can be used to improve products, services, and overall customer experience. I. COST SAVINGS: Resolving issues promptly and effectively can prevent escalation and reduce the cost associated with handling complaints or returns. J. EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION: Employees who possess strong customer service skills often enjoy their work more. Positive interactions with customers can be rewarding, contributing to higher job satisfaction. K. REPEAT BUSINESS: Satisfied customers are more likely to become repeat customers. This is crucial for businesses looking to establish longterm relationships and a steady stream of revenue. L. WORD-OF-MOUTH MARKETING: Customers who have positive experiences are likely to share them with friends, family, and colleagues. Positive word-of-mouth marketing can significantly benefit a business. M. CUSTOMER ADVOCACY: Satisfied customers may become advocates for the brand, actively promoting it within their social circles or online communities. N. CRISIS MANAGEMENT: In times of crisis or when issues arise, effective customer service skills are crucial in managing the situation, mitigating damage, and restoring customer confidence.
While customer service skills are essential for positive customer interactions, there are potential pitfalls which require precautions:
Bangladesh’s path to sustainable energy
mehjabin bhanu
NOTHER step has been made in the establishment of nuclear power facilities in Bangladesh. The director general of Russia’s national nuclear organization, Rosatom, officially handed over to Bangladesh the first cargo of uranium to be used as fuel for the Rooppur nuclear power station. Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina virtually attended the launching ceremony on Thursday. Through this process, Bangladesh entered the nuclear era of non-proliferation. The list of nations employing nuclear energy includes Bangladesh as number 33. This has opened a new chapter in the nation’s power generation industry. Additionally, it was hoped that Russia would always support Bangladesh. A township undergoes significant change as a result of development. In a broader sense, the nation changes. Rooppur is a good example. It is a settlement in Pabna’s Ishradi. There, Russian scientists and labourers directly assisted in the construction of Bangldesh’’s first nuclear power plant. Last October, the second nuclear reactor’s installation was officially opened. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave the opening speech at the installation of the power plant’s primary reactor pressure vessel. On Thursday, the Rooppur nuclear project received clearance, completing a milestone in the Smart Bangladesh initiative. The atomic bomb is a fact. Nuclear energy makes it possible to instantly put out the life lamps of millions of people. Again, it is not difficult to use that nuclear energy to illuminate the gloomy homes of billions of people. Sheikh Hasina, devoted her life to promoting the welfare of the nation’s citizens and its growth. Bangladesh ‘s peaceful use of nuclear power is noteworthy. Nuclear power plants were Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s ideal project for the nation. Two nuclear power plants were set up in the eastern and western areas of Pakistan six
According to experts, this nuclear power plant will significantly benefit the socio-economic sector. It will provide more fresh work opportunities. In addition to adding 2% to the GDP, it will be crucial in resolving the entire northern regionÊs power crisis Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965
I
Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9
Editor’s mail
Suicide cases
sistent with Bangladesh’s dedication to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Because it will increase the proportion of clean energy in the national grid, it will directly support SDG 7 (cheap and clean energy). By addressing climate change through economic growth, poverty reduction, and carbon emission reduction, it also indirectly helps a number of other SDGs. The project also shows Bangladesh’s resolve to make the switch to a more responsible and sustainable energy future. The nation vows to make a significant advancement in lowering its carbon emissions and ensuring a steady supply of electricity for its people by investing in nuclear power. A key step in Bangladesh’s search for dependable and sustainable energy sources is the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. The project shows the country’s willingness to embrace nuclear energy as a clean and effective solution to its expanding energy demands, despite difficulties and delays in its execution. The Rooppur nuclear power plant has the potential to revolutionise Bangladesh’s energy sources, lessen reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to a greener and more prosperous future through stringent safety measures, international cooperation, and public involvement. The project’s actual impact on the nation’s energy security and sustainability will become clearer once it is completed and moves into service. The socioeconomic progress of any nation depends on the utilisation of electricity. To support development, there must be a sufficient supply of power. More power needs to be generated in order to support ongoing development, industrialization, and future generations. He will have no choice but to use nuclear power. Nuclear energy is one of the sources that are now being emphasized for sustainable energy generation in the world, taking climate change into consideration. According to experts, this nuclear power plant will significantly benefit the socio-economic sector. It will provide more fresh work opportunities. In addition to adding 2% to the GDP, it will be crucial in resolving the entire northern region’s power crisis. I
The writer is a freelance columnist
Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545
The writer is a Youth Motivator, presently Professor of Political Science along with Dean, Student’s Welfare (DSW), at B.N. Mandal University, Madhepura (Bihar), India. His 25 books published in addition to about 1000 articles in national and international journals and daily newspapers from 25 foreign countries.
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
Going nuclear through the Rooppur power plant
decades ago, but both were situated in West Pakistan, denying Bangladesh. Bangabandhu proceeded with the nuclear power plant design as a result, and the design plan was completed in 1971, the year the nation gained independence through an armed liberation war. His wish was denied by the assassins. Later, his daughter made significant progress in realising her father’s ambition. The following administration put this work on the nation’s ongoing development in storage. The construction of the power plant later gathered momentum after Sheikh Hasina took the helm of the newly constituted Awami League government. The plan is for the power plant to generate 2,400 megawatts of electricity overall by the end of the next year. The safety of the ecologically friendly Rooppur nuclear power station is extremely important to the government. Here, security measures range from level 3 to level 4. The Rooppur power station is anticipated to play an important part in supplying the nation’s rising demand for electricity. Bangladesh’s desire to use nuclear energy for a sustainable future is demonstrated by the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. This massive project, which is situated in the Pabna district, is a crucial step towards the development of safe and dependable energy sources in the nation. Bangladesh has a large population and a rapidly expanding economy. Energy production in the nation must be sustainable and sufficient. To meet the needs of the population, there is a steady rise in the need for power. The demand for electricity is rising at the same time that the industrial and commercial sectors are growing. Bangladesh has looked to nuclear power as a reliable and clean alternative because it recognises the limitations of fossil resources and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This concept, which aims to resolve the nation’s electricity issues and lessen its reliance on fossil fuels, is led by the Rooppur nuclear power station. The two VVER-1200 reactors that make up the project are anticipated to have a combined capacity of 2,400 MW. Once operational, it will be crucial in attaining sustainable energy development and diversifying Bangladesh’s energy mix. The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is con-
A. AVOID MAKING ASSUMPTIONS: Making assumptions about a customer’s needs or preferences can lead to misunderstandings. Instead, actively listen to customers and seek clarification when necessary. B. BE MINDFUL OF TONE: Tone of voice, whether in written or verbal communication, can significantly impact how a message is received. Avoid sounding condescending or impatient, and strive for a tone that is professional, empathetic, and respectful. C. AVOID JARGON AND TECHNICAL LANGUAGE: Not all customers may be familiar with industry-specific jargon or technical terms. Use clear and simple language to ensure that your message is easily understood. D. RESPECT CULTURAL DIFFERENCES: Customers come from diverse backgrounds with varying cultural norms. Be sensitive to cultural differences to avoid unintentional misunderstandings or offense. E. HANDLE CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION SECURELY: When dealing with customer information, prioritize data security and confidentiality. Ensure that you are in compliance with privacy regulations and company policies. F. DON’T MAKE PROMISES YOU CAN’T KEEP: Be cautious about making promises that cannot be fulfilled. It’s better to under-promise and over-deliver than to set unrealistic expectations. G. STAY CALM IN CHALLENGING SITUATIONS: When faced with irate or upset customers, it’s crucial to remain calm and composed. Avoid responding emotionally, and focus on addressing the issue professionally. H. AVOID BLAME OR EXCUSES: Instead of blaming others or making excuses, take responsibility for resolving issues. Customers appreciate honesty and a commitment to finding solutions. I. BE MINDFUL OF TIME: Time is valuable for both customers and customer service professionals. Strive to resolve issues efficiently without rushing the customer, and avoid unnecessary delays. J. PROVIDE ACCURATE INFORMATION: Inaccurate information can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. Ensure that the information you provide is correct, and if you’re unsure, let the customer know that you will verify and get back to them. K. CONTINUOUSLY IMPROVE SKILLS: Customer service skills evolve, and staying up-todate is essential. Invest in continuous learning and training to enhance your skills and stay relevant in your role. L. SEEK FEEDBACK: Actively seek feedback from customers and colleagues. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and enhance your overall performance. By taking these precautions, customer service professionals can navigate potential challenges more effectively and contribute to positive customer experiences
I
SEVERAL issues have plagued our country, but the most disheartening issue is suicide. Suicide has become very common in Pakistan, with many people taking their own lives for various reasons such as unemployment, depression, family pressure, and more. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), every year more than 15,000 cases are reported in Pakistan. In Pakistan, there are numerous problems that compel individuals to commit suicide. However, the most significant problem in our society is unemployment. Many people have taken their own lives because they were jobless and under pressure from their family members. Just a few months ago, one of my cousins committed suicide because he was unemployed and sitting at home, feeling pressured by his family. In the end, he took his own life. Therefore, higher authorities must take immediate action to address this issue. Providing employment opportunities and addressing the underlying causes of suicide are crucial. ESSIYAN KHUDADAD TURBAT
Owning our country
THE root cause of all the problems we face is that we do not own our country. Though we make individual efforts to pursue our own narrow interests, we take no collective measures to improve the economic, political, social and cultural interests of millions of our countrymen. Such a selfish approach on our part has put our beloved Pakistan at a great disadvantage. The only remedy is to make collective efforts for the resolution of our problems by putting collective pressure on those in power. The sooner we realise this, the better it will be for the welfare and prosperity of the country. ABDUL SAMAD SAMO KARACHI
Manholes in Karachi
THE open manholes in Karachi pose a serious threat to the lives of the people. Be it posh localities or suburban areas, the problem is faced by people everywhere. Despite several accidents in the past, the authorities have never paid attention to the problem. People have lost their loved ones, but the municipal authorities have learnt no lesson. Many of these dangerous death traps are still lying open. The relevant department must do its job and cover these death traps. RIFAT BIBI KARACHI
Withholding tax collection
THE government of Pakistan has reduced the withholding tax on services to 5% instead of 15% for payments with debit or credit cards. But some companies are still charging the full 15%, even on card payments. These companies will most likely tell the FBR at the end of the tax year that they have only collected 5% tax and, in this way, will keep the remaining 10% of WHT collected as their own profit. Some of these companies include international brands like Subway and McDonald’s, which are charging 15% tax on card payments from all their customers. FBR should, therefore, ask citizens to send pictures of receipts where 15% is charged on card payments along with the company name. At year-end, ensure that these culprits pay the full 15% tax on all their sales to the Government of Pakistan and also pay additional fines for not adhering to FBR rules. SHAHRYAR KHAN BASEER ISLAMABAD
Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk
I
Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk
COMMENT 05
Israel-Gaza war: The real terrorists detected
Sunday, 22 October, 2023
Those backing Israel are also terrorists
T
sAjjAd shAukAt
HE Israel-Gaza war erupted after the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, with its fighters entering communities near the Gaza Strip, killing at least 1,300 people, and taking over 150 hostages which also include 20 Americans and 50 Israeli army soldiers. The Israeli government pointed out that Hamas is still holding at least 200 hostages kidnapped from Israel. Israeli officials said that it was the most devastating and brutal assault Israel had suffered in decades; and described it as their country’s 9/11. In response, Tel Aviv officially declared war against Hamas on October 8, and launched one of its largest aerial bombardments ever on the Gaza strip. After barrages of artillery and rocket fire, ground operations to target Hamas fighters are likely to follow. So far the Israeli military has dropped more than 6,000 bombs on Gaza. Unmatched with Israeli heavy and modern weapons, freedom fighters of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad group Abu Ubaida had no option except firing rockets inside Israel. However, unlike the less numbers of the persons mentioned by the media, Israel’s aerial raids in Gaza strip have destroyed buildings, houses, refugees’ camps, mosques, schools, hospitals, and other buildings, killing tens thousands of civilians, including women (including pregnant women), children and journalists. Authorities in Gaza pointed out that thousands of people were missing and believed to be under the rubble. On the other hand, only 1400 Israelis have been killed so far. Israeli forces also targeted multiple locations in the Occupied West Bank and murdered 70 Palestinians, while arresting more than 800 individuals. In the last 12 days, Tel Aviv has halted deliveries of basic necessities of life such as water, food and electricity to Gaza’s 2.3 million people and prevented entry of
supplies from Egypt. Besides, a number of developments and moves such as Israel’s order to Gazans in the north to head south to avoid an expected ground war, its bombardment of the Palestinians during evacuation, despite the calls of its western allies as well as of Pope Francis to open humanitarian corridors so that basic necessities of life and medicine could reach the starving people of the besieged Gaza enclave, Tel Aviv’s refusal to implement those corridors, intense clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, US, UK, France— Germany, including some western countries’ leaders, stating that Iran is supporting Hamas and Hezbollah with weapons—was behind the October 7 offensive, rejection of the Russian resolution by America and some of its major European allies in the UN Security Council— the resolution condemned violence and terrorism against civilians, failure of the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to some Arab countries, particularly Egypt and Israel (twice) to prevent war through a ceasefire— after first meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken’s encouragement to Israeli brutal acts in Gaza, ensuring US massive military support for Tel Aviv, equating Hamas with Islamic State (ISIS), the deployment of a second aircraft carrier group into the Eastern Mediterranean, the US-Israeli the rejection of two-state solution of the Palestinian-Israeli issue as proposed by Russia and China, the waning of Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian of ‘pre-emptive action’, stating that the USA and Israel would suffer significant damages if the war in Gaza spills over into a larger conflict— setting aside the Israeli state terrorism of the past and recent years on the occupied territories of the Palestinians, issuance of the statement of the EU leaders’ condemning in the strongest possible terms Hamas and its indiscriminate terrorist attacks across Israel deeply deploring the loss of lives, duplicity of
The acts of barbarism, employed by Israeli troopers on the Gazans, or Palestinians of the West Bank to maintain illegitimate occupation, are tantamount to alien rule.
the EU—EU’s initial response to announce the immediate suspension of development aid for Palestinians— later said to review the assistance, and also emphasized on Tel Aviv for immediate ceasefire to open the humanitarian corridors for supply of aid to the Gazans, public protests and demonstrations across the Islamic countries, and the western cities, including the US against the Israel’s heavy bombardments on Gaza on larger scale, Tel Aviv’s perennial state terrorism are notable. Meanwhile, 900 people were killed in an Israeli air raid on al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza on October 17, 2023. Several world leaders belonging to the western countries and those of the Muslim World, and the UN secretary general have strongly censured the hospital attack, holding Israel responsible for the tragedy in wake of the protest-rallies in the USA, Western countries and the Islamic countries— in some countries occurrence of clashes between police and protesters. Taking note of the air raid on the hospital, the rulers of Jordan, Egypt and the Palestinian Authority canceled a scheduled meeting with US President Joe Biden who arrived in the region on October 18. President Biden had to meet a range of Arab leaders. But, Jordan also cancelled that summit after an explosion at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City. Earlier, US President Biden met with Israeli Prime Benjamin Minister Netanyahu on the same day and he stated that Washington would provide Israel with everything it needed to defend itself against the Palestinian militant group Hamas— he allegedly said that Hamas was worse than the Islamic State group. Speaking in the tone of Tel Aviv, Biden remarked that the Gaza Hospital strike “seems to have been done by the other team”, in reference to Palestinian militants. Biden repeatedly indicated that the USA would continue to deter any actor wanting to widen this conflict, and to conduct hostility against Israel. As per the directions of Biden, Israel has agreed to allow the opening of the Egypt-Gaza border— the 20 trucks carrying aid via the Rafah crossing would cross into Gaza in coming days for deliveries of food, water and medical supplies. Cairo decided to open the crossing on October 20. Meanwhile, following this contradictory approach, the USA vetoed a UN Security Council resolution which was supported by 12 members that would have condemned Hamas’ attack on Israel, but did not favour Israel’s right to self-defence, while calling for a pause in the fighting to allow humanitarian assistance into Gaza. Israel had occupied the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights since 1967. When Hamas came to power in 2006, having won the elections, Israel’s contact and cooperation with Gaza became very limited. During World War I, the Zionists pressured the British government to settle them in Palestine after the war. The Balfour Declaration of 2 November 1917 was a conspiracy of the USA and the British rulers against
the Palestinians, which was implemented on 14 May 1948 through the UNO— the 1947 UN Partition Plan which established the state of Israel. Nevertheless, after many attacks on Gaza in the past and recent years— AlAqsa mosques 2021 and this year’s assaults on the Palestinians, Hamas was forced to target Israel on October 7. As regards Israel, many authors, writers, officials and doctors have proved with evidence that from the very beginning Israel has used banned chemical weapons like phosphorous bombs in Lebanon in the 2006 war, and several times in Gaza. Now, again, the Israeli military has been using these fatal weapons in Gaza. Regarding Iranian assistance to Hamas, it is mentionable that the UN resolution 1541 on the ‘Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples’ adopted by the General Assembly in 1960 accepts the legitimacy of the right of self-determination and opposes repressive measures of all kinds against the freedom fighters by the colonial power. And UN resolution 2625 of 1970 authorized the dependent people to seek and even receive support from outside to fight against the repressive machinery. So, in the light of these resolutions, the insurgency in Gaza cannot be called terrorism. World history proves that wars of independence in connection with various nations were their reaction against subjugation, maintained by alien powers through state terrorism. In the 20th century, a majority of the Third World countries got independence after an armed struggle against the colonial powers. Even independence of the USA in the 18th century, and the unifications of Germany and Italy in the 19th, became possible after armed struggles. So, the question arises that were the peoples of these countries terrorists at that time? In these terms, in the recent past, even the US-led occupying powers in Iraq and Afghanistan were intruders, and hence, the real terrorists who tended to conceal their own terrorist measures, employed the freedom fighters of these countries. If any impartial observer studies the historical background of Hamas-Palestinians and the present war of liberation, he will definitely conclude that acts of barbarism, employed by Israeli troopers on the Gazans, including Palestinians of the West Bank to maintain illegitimate occupation, are tantamount to alien rule. So, Israelis are the real terrorists. In one way or the other, those Western countries who are acting upon the ambivalent approach of the USA by not mentioning permanent ceasefire or an agreement to settle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are facilitators, abettors and financiers of Israeli state terrorism, and are also real terrorists. Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations. Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com
When will Lebanon’s How media and politicians enter the battle? gave Israel the greenlight to Hezbollah The coordinated strategy among the ‘axis of resistance’ members seems characterised by a measured and calculated approach turn Gaza into a graveyard While Western politicians will cry crocodile tears over the Palestinians slaughtered in the coming days and weeks, let’s never forget that it was them who enabled these massacres in the first place
F
MINT PRESS mnAr Adley
INISH them! Level the place – These are calls for genocide rarely heard so openly in the West. Israel is pounding Gaza – a densely-populated open-air prison where mostly refugees live in a veritable concentration camp. It’s an area populated with 2.3 million people, 50% of whom are children, and Israel is using U.S.-supplied bombs to do what it calls “mowing the grass,” committing war crimes in real-time, and American politicians and the media are enabling it. In a matter of just seven days, Israel bombed the Baptist al-Ahli Hospital – the oldest Christian-led church in Gaza, two UN schools and shelters and 18 other health facilities across the strip. This has resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people just this week, most of whom are women and children. These numbers increase by the day as bodies are pulled from the rubble. The total death toll in Gaza is nearing 4,000, including over 1,000 children, 500 of whom are still infants. And when influential leaders like Jordan Peterson, a personal friend of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu, tweeted out, “Give em Hell Netanyahu,” he was essentially giving Israel carte blanche to turn Gaza into a graveyard. It’s clear that Western politicians, pundits, influencers and media alike are enabling the slaughter of Gaza by giving Israel the green light to commit major war crimes with impunity. Take CNN and the BBC, for example, who for the last nine days have been giving around-the-clock coverage to alleged Hamas tunnels, claiming that they are beneath the feet of every Palestinian, including under schools and hospitals. The deceptive claim is an Israeli military talking point that has been debunked time and time again, and yet it’s being reported as fact without question for countless hours to millions of viewers. What this does is brush off and attempt to justify civilian casualties, framing victims as legitimate targets and blaming Palestinians for their own deaths. But it is little more than gaslighting. President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen, for example, affirmed Israel’s right to “defend itself” and repeated the tired trope that Hamas uses human shields. There is, in fact, no evidence of Hamas using human shields. Yet multiple human rights reports have found that Israel consistently uses Palestinians – including children – as human shields. It’s a blatant lie that the media pushes, which inevitably aids Israel’s agenda of ethnically cleansing Gaza, an agenda loudly and publicly proclaimed by Israel’s own leaders. In a message broadcast to the world on X (formerly Twitter), Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced that Pales-
tinians are human animals. And despite over half of Gaza’s population being children, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog said recently, “There are “no innocents” in the Gaza Strip.” This is the rhetoric of genocide. And if that wasn’t clear enough, member of the Knesset Ariel Kallner spelled it out openly: Right now, one goal: Nakba! A Nakba that will overshadow the Nakba of 48. Nakba in Gaza and Nakba to anyone who dares to join! Nakba, because like then in 1948, the alternative is clear.” Kallner was referencing the 1948 ethnic cleansing of three-quarters of a million Palestinians to create the state of Israel. While the world watches in horror and tries to stop the slaughter, the West is actively stopping any peaceful solution or calls for a ceasefire. A Russian and Chinese-supported ceasefire plan was blocked at the United Nations by the U.S., Britain and France, while American Jews calling for a ceasefire outside the White House were arrested en masse. In Europe, the message from top politicians has been much the same. Israel can do whatever it wants. UK Labour leader Keir Starmer – a professional human rights lawyer, no less – was asked what he thinks about Israel cutting off food, water and electricity to over two million people. Here was his response: So, Labour’s position is that major, genocidal war crimes like starving a huge civilian population are A-OK! And that is the message Israel receives every time a Western politician vacuously demands we stand united with Israel and uphold its right to self-defense. Meanwhile, at home, this demonization of Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims and associating us all with terrorism as unworthy victims is fuelling a wave of Islamophobic hate. In Illinois, a six-year-old Palestinian child was stabbed 26 times by a hate-filled landlord who had been radicalized by watching corporate media. Now, Politicians are trying to save face by showing faux concern for Palestinian children after an entire week and a half of giving unequivocal support for Israel to take whatever action it wanted in Gaza. While Western politicians will cry crocodile tears over the Palestinians slaughtered in the coming days and weeks, let’s never forget that it was them who enabled these massacres in the first place.
Mnar Adley is an award-winning journalist and editor and is the founder and director of MintPress News. She is also president and director of the non-profit media organization Behind the Headlines.
A
MIDDLE EAST EYE AmenA elAshkAr
FTER the recent Israeli air strike on Gaza’s al-Ahli Arab Hospital, which killed close to 500 people, and amid ongoing tensions at Lebanon’s southern border with Israel, many are speculating about how Hezbollah’s involvement in the conflict could change in the coming days. Such questions come against the backdrop of sporadic skirmishes between Hezbollah and the Israeli military in southern Lebanon - a region often referred to as Israel’s “northern front” - and centre on the potential for escalation. Hezbollah has been engaging in tit-for-tat clashes with Israel since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, as the party aims to maintain a deterrent stance while adhering to the established rules of engagement. Clearly, Hezbollah is treading a delicate path in the south. It is not only fortifying the rules of engagement with the Israeli military, but also sending a clear message to both the Israeli and US establishments that it stands ready to engage at this critical juncture. At the same time, there has been a notable mobilisation of Israeli forces towards the northern frontier, including reservists from elite units and battalions, while tanks and artillery are being positioned ahead of possible escalation. The ambiguity surrounding Hezbollah’s potential involvement in the war has inadvertently served Gaza’s armed factions by keeping Israeli forces on alert, thereby dispersing the focus and resources of the defence establishment. This constitutes a strategic advantage, hindering the Israeli military from concentrating its full might solely on the Gaza offensive, while adding a layer of complexity to the evolving geopolitical landscape. Hezbollah’s reaction to Israel’s actions has extended beyond their exchange of fire. A significant yet overlooked aspect in this conflict is the involvement of Palestinians from refugee camps in Lebanon, who have conducted attacks across the Blue Line into Israeli settlements. Although many have overlooked these attacks, particularly given their relatively minimal impact on the Israeli military, the initiative represents a notable shift. Generally, Palestinians in Lebanon are restricted from entering the area of South Litani Sector (SLS), which is deemed a military zone, amid fears of unplanned military engagement with Israeli forces. But recently, and with Hezbollah’s endorsement, individuals affiliated with the Lebanese branch of the Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas and Saraya Al Muqawama, the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, have launched rockets from Lebanon towards Israeli settlements. It is safe to say that such attacks have been absent from the Lebanese scene at least since the liberation of south Lebanon in May 2000. Its return shows the level of Hizbollah’s willingness to engage in the ongoing war. Additionally, it suggests that, should a second
front of the war be opened in the north, Israel may face fire not only from Hezbollah but also from Palestinian factions that have trained intensively for such engagements. Hezbollah’s actions in southern Lebanon can be interpreted in two diverging ways. The first interpretation, largely held by Israeli and US analysts, posits that Hezbollah’s restrained response signifies a lack of interest in contributing to the ongoing offensive in Gaza. Despite expressing solidarity with the cause of the Palestinian people through paying allegiance to the notion of “unified fronts”, a fundamental principle for the “axis of resistance”, the Lebanese party appears reluctant to engage fully, primarily due to local and internal factors that could impede its capacity to wage a full-scale war against Israel. This reluctance is perceived against a backdrop of Lebanon’s severe economic crisis. Furthermore, although Hezbollah possesses an arsenal that has significantly grown over time, Israeli and US officials believe the group has depleted its human resources through involvement in conflicts across the region, particularly in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. ‘MOMENT ZERO’: Western perceptions of Islamist parties, however, have often been misaligned with their actual ideologies and actions. The 7 October attack by Hamas was a case in point. Western governments seemingly believed they had subdued Hamas in Gaza, akin to how Fatah was incorporated into the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank. But the surprise attack showed a continued willingness on the part of Hamas to pursue its longstanding demands. Similarly, Hezbollah remains committed to its principles, particularly concerning the Palestinian cause - a strong indication that it would not hesitate to support Hamas if circumstances warranted intervention. Based on this interpretation, questions remain around the timing and conditions under which Hezbollah may intervene. Hezbollah has already exhibited a willingness to intervene, albeit in a limited capacity. The coordinated strategy among the “axis of resistance” members seems characterised by a measured and calculated approach, rather than deploying all available resources simultaneously. Lebanese media outlets, particularly those aligned with Hezbollah, have pointed out that there would need to be a consensus among the axis of resistance prior to selecting a decisive moment - referred to as “moment zero” when Hezbollah would escalate its involvement. Unlike state actors, armed groups such as Hezbollah might employ a decision-making paradigm wherein large-scale massacres do not serve as the primary catalyst for retaliation or heightened engagement. The response patterns and justifications for military actions by both Hezbollah and Hamas underscore this distinction. While the exact timing of this “moment zero” remains undetermined, speculation suggests that the looming ground offensive in Gaza, which has been endorsed by the US, UK, Germany and France, could trigger a more significant intervention by Hezbollah. This interplay reflects the integrative relation between different actors within the “axis of resistance”. Iran, for instance, appears to be spearheading diplomatic engagements, as evidenced by the regional tours conducted by its foreign minister. Although Iran seems inclined towards de-escalation, Hezbollah’s actions in southern Lebanon send a clear signal of the group’s readiness and willingness to engage militarily if deemed necessary. Amena ElAshkar is a research assistant at the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies.
06 news
enhances customer HOW JOE BIDEN’S ‘ZIONIST’ MINDSET GAVE OPPO experience with monthly ISRAEL ‘BLANK CHECK’ ON GAZA GENOCIDE ‘OPPO Service Day’in Pakistan
W
sunday, 22 October, 2023 | Islamabad
WASHINGTON REUTERS
HEN Joe Biden met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his war cabinet during his visit to Israel, the US president assured them: “I don’t believe you have to be a Jew to be a Zionist, and I am a Zionist.” The politicians and generals gathered in the ballroom of the Tel Aviv hotel nodded in approval, according to a US official knowledgeable of the closeddoor remarks, even as Israel bombarded Gaza in retaliation for a devastating attack by Palestinian Hamas fighters and with a ground invasion looming. Biden, who is of Irish Catholic descent, has used similar words in the past to profess his affinity for Israel. But the moment, which has not been previously reported, illustrates how Biden’s decades as one of the leading “Friends of Israel” in American politics seem to be guiding him during a defining crisis of his presidency. It also underscores the challenges he faces balancing unwavering support for Israel with persuading Netanyahu – with whom he has a long history – to avoid worsening the civilian death toll and humanitarian meltdown in Gaza as well as complicating further releases of American hostages. “Biden’s connection to Israel is deeply engrained in his political DNA,” said Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East negotiator who served six secretaries of state in both Demo-
cratic and Republican administrations. “Whether he likes it or not, he’s in the midst of a crisis he’ll have to manage.” Reuters interviewed a dozen current and former aides, lawmakers and analysts, some of whom said Biden’s current wartime embrace of Netanyahu could afford the US leverage to try to moderate Israel’s response in Gaza. In their private session with aides on Wednesday, the two leaders displayed none of the tensions that have sometimes characterized their meetings, according to a second US official familiar with the talks. But Biden did pose hard questions to Netanyahu about the coming offensive, including “Have you thought through what comes the day after and the day after that?” the official said. US and regional sources have expressed doubt that Israel, which vows to destroy Hamas,
China slams US fabrication of non-existent ‘Chinese military threat’ BEIJING
AGENCIES
The US is shifting blame, hyping and fabricating the non-existent “Chinese military threat,” which is a premeditated attack and smear against China, with undisclosed political motives behind it, said Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense. China firmly opposes this and has lodged solemn representations with the US, Zhang said in response to US defense officials’ claims about “provocative actions” by China’s military aircraft over the East China Sea and South China Sea. During a press conference held by the US Department of Defense on Tuesday, US defense officials accused China of conducting a “centralized and concerted campaign of harassment of aircraft” against the US and its allies in the airspace over the East China Sea and South China Sea since 2021. Zhang said in a statement on Friday that the root cause of the maritime and aerial security issues between China and the US lies in the fact that US military ships and aircraft have come from afar to provoke and stir up trouble at China’s doorstep, conducting long-duration, large-scale, and highfrequency reconnaissance harassment in China’s surrounding maritime and aerial areas. The spokesperson noted that in 2023, US reconnaissance aircraft have conducted over 2,000 close-in activities, and US warships have illegally trespassed into China’s Xisha territorial waters twice and passed through the Taiwan Straits five times, openly hyping up their actions and deliberately provoking China to demonstrate strength, which easily leads to dangerous encounters and escalates regional tensions. China has taken professional and secure measures, such as verification, identification, tracking, monitoring, warning, and expulsion, in accordance with the law and regulations against foreign warships and aircraft that illegally intrude into its jurisdictional maritime and aerial areas and disrupt normal training activities, Zhang said. In the face of provocative and hostile acts, China is forced to take necessary countermeasures, just like any sovereign country would do. The facts speak louder than words, and it is the US side that is the real provocateur, risk-taker, and disruptor, said Zhang. “We urge the US side to stop misleading international public opinion with false narratives, to strictly control and restrain frontline military activities, and refrain from any provocative actions,” said Zhang, noting that this is necessary to avoid misunderstandings and to prevent maritime and aerial accidents that could undermine regional peace and stability. The Chinese military always maintains a high level of alertness and resolutely defends national sovereignty, security, and maritime rights and interests, Zhang said.
has yet to craft an endgame. Biden’s alignment with the rightwing leader risks alienating some progressives in his Democratic Party as he seeks re-election in 2024, with a growing international outcry against Israel’s tactics also casting some blame on the US. It also has prompted many Palestinians and others in the Arab world to regard Biden as too biased in favour of Israel to act as an even-handed peace broker. FORGED OVER DECADES: Biden has partly credited his pro-Israel worldview to his father, who insisted following World War Two and the Nazi Holocaust there was no doubt of the justness of establishing Israel as a Jewish homeland in 1948. Biden’s awareness of the persecution of Jews over the centuries and a record high number of antisemitic incidents in
the US last year could also help explain why Hamas atrocities committed in the October 7 attack on Israel were so disturbing for the 80-year-old president, according to a former US official. Entering national politics in 1973, Biden spent the next five decades forging his policy positions — iron-clad support for Israel’s security coupled with backing for steps toward Palestinian statehood – as he served as US senator, Barack Obama’s vice president and finally president. His career was marked by deep engagement with the Israeli-Arab conflict, including an oft-retold encounter with Prime Minister Golda Meir who told the young lawmaker in 1973 on the cusp of the Yom Kippur War that Israel’s secret weapon was “we have no place else to go.” During his 36 years in the Senate, Biden was the chamber’s biggest recipient in history of donations from pro-Israeli groups, taking in $4.2 million, according to the Open Secrets database. As vice president, Biden often mediated the testy relationship between Obama and Netanyahu. Dennis Ross, a Middle East adviser during Obama’s first term, recalled Biden intervening to prevent retribution against Netanyahu for a diplomatic snub during a 2010 visit. Obama, Ross said, had wanted to come down hard over Israel’s announcement of a major expansion of housing for Jews in East Jerusalem, the mostly Arab half of the city captured in the 1967 war.
CBD Punjab set to achieve milestone in october with Lahore Prime infrastructure completion LAHORE PR
The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), is about to complete all infrastructural development work, within the ambits of Lahore Prime in the month of October 2023. Once completed, the local and foreign investors can initiate construction works on five mixed used commercial plots, already auctioned back in September 2021 at a price of Rs21.59 billion. Lahore Prime is one of the main clusters of CBD Punjab, where world class skyscrapers will be constructed to provide superlative business opportunities for local and foreign conglomerates. The authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Imran Amin visited the site to get the latest briefings on aboutto-complete infrastructural projects in Lahore Prime. CBD Punjab’s Executive Director Commercial Mohammed Omer, Executive Director Technical Riaz Hussain, and other officials including technical teams from NESPAK and NLC were also present at the occasion. The infrastructure encompasses wide-range road works with asphalt surfacing, a state-of-the-art drainage system, a robust sewage network, dependable water supply, natural gas connections, top-tier telecommunication services, enhanced security meas-
ures, and aesthetically pleasing landscaping, with an equal emphasis on keeping the cluster environmentally friendly through providing green spaces and largescale plantation drive. While expressing his views CEO CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, said “The completion of Lahore Prime's infrastructure is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the entire CBD Punjab team. This achievement marks a significant step forward in our mission to create a dynamic and sustainable central business district that will drive economic growth and prosperity in Punjab.” After the completion, Lahore Prime will demonstrate its potential of becoming an epicenter of business activities in this part of the world. CBD Punjab has commended its dedicated team for the timely efforts and dedications, they made, to bring this infrastructural project to life.
India to declare dead 79 people missing in Himalayan lake floods
NEW DELHI AGENCIES
India has begun work to designate as dead at least 79 people who went missing in floods unleashed by a Himalayan glacial lake outburst two weeks ago, a senior official said on Friday, taking the death toll in the disaster to 179. The floods triggered by torrential rain and overflow from the Lhonak Lake were among the region’s
worst in more than 50 years, washing away homes and bridges in the northeastern state of Sikkim, wedged between Bhutan, China and Nepal. The state government has begun the process for such a designation of those still missing, by seeking the federal government’s permission, since the law specifies an interval of seven years before a missing person can be declared dead. “We have not called off the rescue efforts, but after two weeks it will be a miracle (to find them),” said state official Anil Rai. Sikkim retrieved at least 40 bodies in the flood aftermath and the neighbouring state of West Bengal 60, said officials from the two states who are working to reconcile the official toll and eliminate double counting. As climate change warms high mountain regions, many communities face the risk of dangerous glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Lakes holding water from melted glaciers can brim over and burst, sending torrents rushing down mountain valleys. More than 200 such lakes now pose a high hazard to Himalayan communities in Bhutan, China, India, Nepal and Pakistan, research in 2022 showed.
LAHORE: OPPO, a global technology leader renowned for its innovative smartphone solutions, continues its commitment to enhancing the customer experience with the monthly "OPPO Service Day" in Pakistan. This special event, available to all OPPO users across the country, takes place from the 10th to the 12th of every month at official OPPO Service Centers. During the "OPPO Service Day," OPPO users in Pakistan can take advantage of a range of services and benefits designed to enhance their smartphone experience. One of the key offerings is "Free Repair Services." If your OPPO device needs repair, you only need to cover the cost of the replaced spare parts, while labor costs are completely waived, ensuring a cost-effective solution for any necessary repairs. OPPO also understands the importance of keeping your device in pristine condition. Users can avail "Free Anti-Scratch Service," and "Free Jelly Case Replacement" which allows you to replace the default anti-scratch screen protector at no cost, subject to stock availability at your nearest OPPO Service Center. PR
Pakistan tells UNSC: Like Israel in Palestine, India suppressing freedom struggle in Kashmir UNITED NATIONS AGENCIES
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Munir Akram, has said that the UN Security Council, which has the primary responsibility to promote world peace, has failed to stop the slaughter in Gaza, as it also failed in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Munir Akram speaking to the 15-member Council said, “Like Israel in occupied Palestine, India’s massive occupation Army of 900,000 troops has sought to brutally suppress the freedom struggle of the Kashmiri people and to impose what its extremist leaders ominously call a ‘Final Solution’ for Kashmir.” On Wednesday, the US vetoed a Russian-led Security Council resolution that would have called for “humanitarian pauses” to deliver life-saving aid to millions of traumatized Gazans living under the relentless Israeli bombing on the embattled enclave. Speaking in a debate on the contributions of regional mechanisms for peace and security, Munir Akram said he hopes that after the Security Council’s failure, the General Assembly will take action and demand an immediate ceasefire; full, unhindered, and sustainable humanitarian access to suffering people in Gaza; and ensure that they are not displaced within or outside Gaza. “Thereafter,” he added, “We should seek to resuscitate the two-State solution, the only option for a durable peace in the Holy Land.” Diplomats said that representatives of the Non-aligned Movement (NAM), who met on Friday, decided to convene an Emergency Special Session of the 193member Assembly to discuss the alarming situation in Gaza. (There is no veto in the General Assembly, but its resolutions, unlike those of the Security Council, are not binding. But they do carry the weight of world opinion and the moral authority of the world community.) The General Assembly President, Dennis Francis, will fix the date for the emergency session. In his remarks, Ambassador Akram said the Security Council’s failures could be addressed by making it more representative of the UN’s membership; more democratic, by enlarging the voice of the majority of small and medium sized States, and more accountable, through the democratic method of periodic elections The Council’s shortcomings, he said, arise mainly due to the veto power of the five permanent members – Britain, China, France, Russia and the US “Therefore, it is difficult to comprehend the logic of those who advocate the expansion in the number of the Council’s permanent members,” he said, in an obvious dig at the four aspirants of the permanent membership – India, Brazil, Germany and Japan, Pakistan, along with its allies in the Uniting for Consensus (UfC) group opposed any expansion in the permanent category and has instead proposed a new category of members – not permanent members – with longer duration in terms and a possibility to get re-elected. The Pakistani envoy said regional and sub-regional organizations can play a role in promoting peace and security and resolving disputes. However, their role remains subsidiary to that of the Security Council, the General Assembly, the SecretaryGeneral and other relevant UN organs. Moreover, their actions must remain consistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and UN resolutions.
China greets Tim Cook’s visit, eager to provide opportunities for foreign companies BEIJING
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
Senior Chinese leaders and officials welcomed Apple CEO Tim Cook’s visit to China, emphasising that the country is willing to provide more opportunities for foreign companies, a clear signal of China’s determination to attract foreign capital. Tim Cook, who is on his second visit to China this year, is one of the latest batch of foreign company heads coming to the country recently, showing that China is the first choice for “rational capital” as they navigate the global market, Chinese experts said, adding that China’s opening-up is a resolute move aimed at unleashing growth potential and sharing business opportunities with countries and enterprises worldwide. When meeting with Cook on Thursday, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said China’s door will only open wider and wider, adding that the country is willing to provide more opportunities and create better environ-
ments for foreign enterprises, including Apple. Cook said that the company is sticking to globalization, and is confident in the prospects of the Chinese market. It is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in high-end manufacturing, digital economy and other fields, he added. On Thursday, Jin Zhuanglong, head of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, also met with Cook, and said he hoped that Apple company will continue to take root and invest in China and further improve the cooperation level with the country to see win-win results when participating in China’s new industrialization process. Also on Thursday, Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, met with Cook, exchanging views on Apple’s development in China, strengthening practical cooperation between China and the US, and the China International Supply Chain Expo, which will be unveiled at the end of November. Cook’s visit to China also came at a time
when multinational companies’ heads and delegations are flocking to China, including Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meeting with Stephen Schwarzman, chairman of the Blackstone Group, in Beijing on Thursday, and Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining meeting with Sassine Ghazi, president of Synopsys, and his delegation on Thursday. Those visiting executives all expressed their long-term determination to invest in China, with Ghazi saying that their company will actively rely on the local innovation talent team to serve the global market. Cook’s second trip in the year to China highlights that Apple still values the Chinese market, and it also sent a signal that China is still the most attractive single market although there is some industrial transfer to other regions, Li Yong, a senior research fellow at the China Association of International Trade, told the Global Times on Friday. Tim Cook may represent a portion of the world’s “rational capital,” as rational entrepreneurs with a global vision often choose
the market with the most potential, the most stability and the most predictability, Li said. “China is the first choice among global market in terms of such pre-conditions,” Li added. Data from the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) released on Friday showed that the actual use of foreign capital in the manufacturing industry was 262.41 billion yuan ($35.86 billion) in the first nine months of this year, an increase of 2.4 percent, of which the actual use of foreign capital in the high-tech manufacturing industry increased by 12.8 percent. Meanwhile, 37,814 new foreign-invested enterprises were established nationwide, a year-on-year increase of 32.4 percent. Investment from France, the UK and Canada are the top three in terms of investment growth, MOFCOM said. On Friday, L’Oréal said in its fiscal report ending on September 30 that sales revenues in the Chinese mainland in the third quarter maintained a sound growth of 7.7 percent , and all the categories’ growth are
dynamic. To better attract foreign investment, MOFCOM said it will further reduce the negative list for market access, and further promote the reform and opening-up of free trade pilot zones and ports. “Foreign capital has confidence in China’s market and economic prospects, and we are also confident in foreign capital coming to China,” MOFCOM said. China has taken steps to remove all restrictions on foreign investment access in the manufacturing sector, highlighting its commitment to a more open and inviting business environment, which Chinese experts said shows China’s efforts to push for a highlevel opening-up, and the confidence in the opening-up of manufacturing. Shanghai is about to hold the sixth China International Import Expo from November 5 to November 10. A sign of China’s unwavering dedication to promoting high-level opening-up, the fair is expected to bring a boost to the global economy, experts said.
Sunday, 22 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
CORPORATE CORNER Ipsos: Socio-economic development in Pakistan can be improved by curbing illicit trade
According to the international research institute Ipsos, the pace of socio-economic development in Pakistan can be improved by reducing the loss of the national exchequer by curbing illicit trade. Pakistan's ranking in the Human Development Index of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has progressively declined in recent years. Pakistan presently ranks 161 out of 192 states in 2022The report highlighted that a significant investment can be made in providing basic services to the people and building infrastructure while minimizing the damage done to the national exchequer by illicit trade. According to the report, tax evasion of Rs 956 billion is taking place annually in five sectors in Pakistan. These sectors include the illicit trade in tyres and lubricants, cigarettes, real estate, and tea.Illegal trade of tyres and lubricants contributes Rs 106 billion annually to the national exchequer, Rs 240 billion annually from illegal sale of cigarettes, Rs 500 billion from tax evasion in real estate, Rs 65 billion annually from the illegal sale of medicines and from illegal sale of tea, the national exchequer is facing an annual deficit of Rs 45 billion. PR
Israel carrying out attacks with impunity under US support: Russian envoy
07 PALESTINIAN ENVOY LAUDS CHINA FOR CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE IN EASING TENSION BETWEEN PALESTINE, ISRAEL NEWS
A
ISLAMABAD
MIAN ABRAR
CTING Ambassador of Palestine Nader Al Turk has lauded China for showing its readiness to play a constructive role in easing tensions between Palestine and Israel and promoting peace talks. Addressing a webinar titled, “War Crimes Gaza: The impact, consequences, and international response & responsibility”, the envoy called out the “double standards” of the so-called civilised world and international organisations responsible of ruthless killings of innocent children, women and elderly men living in Gaza. The webinar was jointly hosted by the Center of South Asia & International Studies (CSAIS) Islamabad and the Institute of Legal Studies Lahore. Nader shared the perpetual miseries of Palestinians and called for immediate justice in terms of two state solution, guarantor of durable peace and stability in the Middle East a rest of the world. He urged to regional countries and the Muslim world to come forward to stop Israel from state terrorism and indiscriminate bombardment on civilian society and installations in Gaza. Interestingly he maintained that his country did not have any religious or ethnic issue with Jews but facing lots of onslaughts from the fanatic Zionists, creating serious issues for humans and humanity.
INP
20th Health Asia promotes healthcare quality in Pakistan
KARACHI: The 20th edition of Health Asia concluded in the Expo Center Karachi, which attracted thousands of medical professionals, health experts, and paramedic staff in different fields of the healthcare industry.On the concluding day, various seminars were held on the topics of radiology, cardiac surgery, good lab practices, gynecology, etc.Speakers at different seminars urged healthcare professionals to adopt technology and the emerging trend in healthcare practices to provide quality treatment to patients.They urged that healthcare experts, doctors, and paramedic staff foster teamwork and collaboration to ensure better care and treatment at their respective healthcare units.The exhibition and seminars were attended by various dignitaries and people from various walks of life.Renowned hospitals, diagnostic labs, producers of surgical items and media devices, medical equipment providers, and manufacturers set up nearly 500 installations at the 20th Health Asia Exhibition. PR
Governor Tessori opens wedding expo
people have so far been killed. Immense collateral damage has been done converting buildings and apartments into debris”. “The Israel forces have been wagging unstoppable human siege, brutality, drastic demographic decomposition, social and political marginalization, alienation, and ruthless killing” he further said. He labeled the so-called Century Deal or Abraham Peace Deal as total disasters. It has undermined the basis of a two-state solution and to cut off the continuity of the old state of Palestine he added. Dr Khan was of the view that ongoing war between Israel and Hamas would further start a new end game in the region and power struggle through deadly proxies toppling states, societies and systems in the Middle East, MENA and even in
Balochistan’s youth to be equipped with modern skills: Madad Ali QUETTA
KARACHI: The Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, Excellency Danila Ganich, attended a dinner organized by the Karachi Council On Foreign Relations (KCFR) at a local Hotel. While responding to a question, he said that Hamas’s Attack on Israel was a terrorist act and that Israel is carrying out a huge Revengeful Terrorism with impunity under US Support. He added that it was a complex issue and he was grateful that Pakistan cosponsored the Russian draft resolution on the UN Security Council which was about a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Both Russia and Pakistan acted as brothers in presenting that Resolution. He continued that the attack by Hamas was a terrorist act that needs to be condemned, but what is happening in Gaza is not just counter-terrorism but revenge and terror and that Russia saw an act of aggression against Palestine. In his address. PR
Nader the DHM was confident that patience, determination, and plight of Palestinians will be awarded very soon and they will be free in their actions and homes. Dr Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan in his well drafted and articulated speech elaborated the historic miseries of Palestinians people starting from 1947. Dr Khan was of the opinion that the land of unlimited prophesies, holy personalities and places was under fire again because of indiscriminate bombardment of Israel air force even on civilian population. Unfortunately Gaza has become the biggest modern day jail for the 2.6 million helpless Palestinians he added. While mentioning the sufferings of Palestinians he said that “Gaza is besieged and bleeding and more than 4500
Caretaker Federal Minister for Education and Vocational Training, Madad Ali Sindhi has said that equipping the younger generation with modern skills through vocational and technical training is the need of the hour. The minister visited Quetta Technical Training Center (TTC) on Saturday during which he was welcomed by Former Federal Minister Roshan Khursheed Brocha, Additional Secretary of Labor and Manpower Zawar Ali Hazara, Director of Labor Irshad Ahmed Baloch and Principal Shoaib Anwar Shirazi. Speaking on the occasion,
Madad Ali Sindhi said that under the direction of caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, with the support of Nutech and other institutions, the youth of Balochistan will be equipped with technical skills to become valuable members of society. Instead of becoming a burden on their families and society, they will be the architects of the future based on their skills and technical training, enabling them to earn a decent living, he added. The minister also commended the efforts of TTC Quetta in providing students with valuable skills, as technical skills and vocational education are essential for rapid development and prosperity.
Madad Ali Sindhi mentioned that, on the special instructions of caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, modern equipment and resources will be provided to all technical centers. This will include giving laptops and scholarships to students in various educational institutions in Balochistan. During the visit, the Principal of Technical Training Center Quetta, Shoaib Anwar Shirazi, briefed the federal minister on the technical education courses, short courses, and the overall performance of the institution at TTC. In response, Madad Ali Sindhi assured all possible support from the government.
Khawaja Nazimuddin’s 59th death anniversary being observed today ISLAMABAD INP
The 59th death anniversary of former prime minister and Ex Governor General Khawaja Nazimuddin will be observed tomorrow (Sunday). Various political parties have scheduled different events in connection with death anniversary of former prime minister of the country. He served as second Governor General of Pakistan and second prime minister after Quaid e Millat Liaqat Ali Khan. Born in Dacca, Bengal, Khawaja Nazimuddin received his education from Dunstable Grammar School in England. He later studied at Aligarh Muslim University and Trinity Hall, Cambridge until the mid1930s. After returning to British India, he became in-
volved in politics. Nazimuddin was initially the Education Minister, but climbed the ranks to become the chief minister of the province prior to independence. Khawaja Nazimuddin also became head of the Muslim League in Eastern India. Upon the formation of Pakistan, he became an important part of the early government. After the death of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, he succeeded him as the governor general. The first Prime Minister of Pakistan Liaquat Ali Khan was assassinated in 1951 and Sir Khawaja stepped in to replace him. He died in 1964 at the age of 70. He was buried at Suhrawardy Udyan in his hometown of Dhaka. The Nazimabad and North Nazimabad suburbs of Karachi and Nazimuddin roads of Dhaka and Islamabad have been named in honour of Sir Khawaja Nazimuddin.
Sindh CM, Iranian Consul General discuss issues of mutual interest KARACHI INP
Consul General of Iran Hasan Noorian called on Sindh Chief Minister Maqbool Baqar in Karachi on Saturday and discussed with him the matters of mutual interest and promotion of bilateral relations. Speaking during the meeting, the Iranian Consul General said
that 80 thousand visas are being issued every year from Iranian Consulate in Karachi. Hasan Noorani said that Tehran and Isfahan Chambers of Commerce has signed an MoU with Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and this MoU will open up new trade opportunities. He further said Iran will be able
to send fruits, vegetables and petroleum products to Pakistan. Iranian Consul General said land routes between Iran, Iraq and Oman will open the door to tourism and if any investor from Iran or Pakistan comes forward, we will start free service. The Chief Minister and Consul General condemned the Israeli aggression on Palestine.
South East Asia. “It fears that recently inked peace agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia with the help of China may also confront with some serious irritants in the region” dr khan added. “The expected pace dividends of Saudi Arabia and Israel would also be delayed. Even eight other prospective Muslim countries could not dare the have friendly ties with Israel”. Dr Khan summarized that the Chinese One Belt One Road Initiative (BRI) in the Middle East would also be in the line of fire because of deteriorating law & order situation in the region. The same would also be replicated on the recently announced India-US-Middle East and EU trans-regional economic corridor connecting India with Middle East including Israel and EU. He concluded that the Chinese diplomatic wisdom showed the right way of achieving the desired goal of conflict resolution through Two-State solution. He maintained that fundamental reason for the current situation is the failure to safeguard the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people. Shamas Abbasi delivered very informative speech and highlighted the role of media in the ongoing was between two unequal opponents. Abbasi held responsible the western media for disseminating false and fake propaganda against helpless Palestinians. He showcased the importance of social media showing the real face of the aggressor, Israel.
Education ecosystem to bring positive change in educational system: CM Domki
QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Ali Mardan Khan Domki has expressed his hope that Education Ecosystem will bring about a positive change in education system. This was stated by him during a high level briefing on Balochistan Digital Roadmap, 2030 in Quetta on Saturday. Mir Ali Mardan Domki directed to take steps to establish database and its ownership at Provincial level. The Chief Minister said work was underway for promotion of Information Technology Industry in the province. INP
AIOU’s ODL Program: Deadline from admissions extended till Nov 7
ISLAMABAD: The Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood on Saturday gave approval of extension in admission date till November 07, for open distance learning (ODL) programs offered in phase 2 of autumn semester 2023 due to the hundreds of applications received from interested students. According to the AIOU, the programs offered in this phase include Associate degree in Arts (BA General), Associate degree in Commerce (B.Com), Associate degree in Education, BS (ODL) programs, B.Ed programs, BBA, postgraduate diplomas and certificate courses. The students can apply for admission to these programs until November 7 without late fee charges whereas continuing students can enroll themselves till October 25. Admission forms and prospectus of all the programs are available on the university website. Admission forms for the Associate Degree programs (BA, B.Com) and B.Ed program are also available at the University’s Regional Offices and SWIFT Centers throughout the country. All the necessary information is available in the prospectus. Students can visit our regional offices or call the university helpline at 051111 112 468 for further information. INP
Man guns down wife, son over domestic dispute
OKARA: A man gunned his wife, son and injured two others over domestic disputes in suburban village of Okara on Saturday. Police arrested accused with murder weapon. According to details, the incident took place in village Dograi where accused Mansha exchanged hot words with family members over domestic disputes. The verbal clash turned violent after which culprit opened straight firing killing his wife Sheema, son Shehzad besides leaving two others injured. INP
Embassy of Pakistan in Hague organizes AI & Big Data Expo Europe KARACHI: Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori today inaugurated the Wedding Expo at Expo Centre Karachi. He visited various stalls of the expo which would continue on Sunday also. Governor Sindh lauded the management for organizing such an event and their commitment for providing wedding related items on discounted rates.While talking with media Governor Sindh said that those who are engaged in business activities despite economic difficulties are commendable as they are contributing towards national exchequer.Replying to a question about former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif ,Governor Sindh said that being a Pakistani he has every right to come back to his homeland and challenge decision against him in the court of law. "No one should question his right to return to his motherland", Governor Sindh added. He said that there was an urgent need of Istehkam-ePakistan Commission so as to evolve a viable strategy to mitigate the hardship being faced by the country on economic front. "All political forces must unite on one point agenda of reviving. PR
ISLAMABAD INP
Pakistan’s Embassy in Hague in collaboration with Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) set up a ‘Tech Destination Pakistan’ pavilion in ‘AI & Big Data Expo Europe’, at RAI, Amsterdam on 26-27 September 2023. The IT companies from Pakistan namely Abacus Consulting, Royal Cyber, Brickclays, Xynotech, Coeus Solutions, Digifloat, Grayphite, NN Software, and Reach the Globe showcased their services / products in the Expo, a press release issued by the Pakistan embassy, the Hague, Netherlands said on Saturday. Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar visited the Expo and met with Pakistani exhibitors on first day of the expo. Chief Executive Officer Abacus Consulting Fatima Asad gave presentation on opportunities in IT Sector of Pakistan. She
presented Pakistan as an emerging market, offering huge potential not only for sourcing services but also as a very conducive market for investment. Ambassador Suljuk appreciated efforts of Pakistani exhibitors to promote professionalism and talent from Pakistan in IT sector. Embassy of Pakistan, the Hague organised a networking event attended by Pakistani exhibitors and IT professionals, academia and professionals working in Netherlandsbased MNCs. Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar gave an overview of the initiatives taken by the Embassy to promote IT services exports. He said that webinars and in-person events have been held in collaboration with PSEB, TDAP and the Pakistani IT professionals in the Netherlands. Participation of Pakistan in this Expo was part of business plan of the Embassy to showcase Pakistan’s IT services sector. The Embassy has also launched a se-
ries of webinars for awareness of Pakistani professionals about job opportunities in the Netherlands. He further informed that the efforts have come to fruition in the form of increase in export of IT services to the Netherlands from US$ 9.8 Million to US$ 23 Million and increase in number of IT professionals joining the Dutch companies. The Embassy had arranged visit of a delegation of IT companies in May 2023. The visiting delegates expressed their satisfaction about Pakistan’s investment eco system. Shurjeel Tousif, CEO SeQuenX , who was part of the delegation said that subsequent to his trip to Pakistan arranged by the Embassy, SeQuenX has opened up a software business development centre in Islamabad. This is line with the vision to set up a software technology corridor between the Netherlands and Pakistan. To cement this, SeQuenX has also signed an MoU with COMSATS
Global. Pakistani exhibitors were highly satisfied with arrangements made by the Embassy and also expressed optimism to increase export of IT services. Fatima Asad-Saeed commended decision of the Government of Pakistan to participate in this Expo as well as efforts of the Embassy for facilitating participants and promoting networking with the Dutch companies. Mustafa of Royal Cyber said that there lies a huge potential in tech sectors of the Netherlands and Pakistani companies can complement their requirements befittingly. Ambassador Suljuk said that Government of Pakistan has recently constituted Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) who have included IT among the priority sectors for investment. He appreciated efforts of PSEB and TDAP and thanked the participants. He encouraged Dutch businesses to explore opportunities in Pakistan.
h t i t
l t h i b P
K a h s
GOVT TO DEVISE PLAN TO REDUCE RS2.3TR CIRCULAR DEBT NEWS
T
g
SIFC ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN REVIEWING PLAN, DIRECTING ENERGY MINISTRY TO CONSIDER IMF CONDITIONS PROFIT
MONITORING DESK
O address Pakistan’s pressing power sector circular debt, the Ministry of Energy has unveiled a comprehensive plan that incorporates budget subsidies, policy revisions, and agreements aimed at reducing the staggering debt of Rs 2.3 trillion. The draft plan has been shared with a committee of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and further refinement is expected in consultation
with the Ministry of Finance. However, there are concerns raised by the interim Finance Minister Dr Shamshad Akhtar regarding the potential fiscalization of power-sector losses through budget subsidies. She emphasized the need for alternative solutions. Pakistan’s energy sector has long grappled with issues like mounting losses, low recoveries, unbudgeted subsidies, and problematic agreements. The circular debt, as of June this year, stands at Rs2.31 trillion, including a substantial portion of commercial banks’ debt. The Ministry of Finance has allo-
Passing out ceremony of PMA Long Course held at Kakul RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
The passing-out ceremony of the 148th PMA Long Course, 67th Integrated Course, 35th Technical Graduate Course, and the 22nd Lady Cadet Course was held at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, said a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday. The event was attended by Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf as the chief guest. Cadets from Iraq, Maldives, Nepal, Palestine, Qatar, Sri Lanka and Yemen were also among the graduates. During the ceremony, awards were presented to the outstanding cadets by the chief guest. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Academy Senior under Officer Muhammad Abdur Rehman Awan of the 148th PMA Long Course. Furthermore, the President’s Gold Medal was awarded to Battalion Senior Under Officer Muhammad Hamza Khalid from the 148th PMA Long Course. The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Overseas Gold Medal was presented to Battalion Senior Under Officer Shreejan Baniya from the 148th PMA Long Course, representing Nepal. Additionally, Commandant’s Canes were conferred upon Course Under Officer Muhammad Najam Azam from the 67th Integrated Course and Course Under Officer Fareeha Kainaat Arif from the 22nd Lady Cadet Course. The Chief of Army Staff Cane was presented to Company Quarter Master Sergeant Frasat Toufique from the 35th Technical Graduate Course. Moreover, the Commander of the Sri Lankan Army, Lieutenant General HLVM Liyanage, RWP, RSP, NDU, attended as the guest of honour.
Nawaz doesn’t plan to leave Pakistan again, says Dar ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Former finance minister and Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) stalwart Ishaq Dar on Saturday said Nawaz Sharif does not plan to leave Pakistan again after return. Speaking to a private TV, the PML-N leader however clarified that he would make trips abroad if need be. The three-time premier arrived earlier today in the federal capital, marking an end to his self-imposed four-year exile. Nawaz will hold a rally today at Minar-e-Pakistan after Maghrib prayers. Dar further stated that Nawaz has an economic recovery plan ready. “If the people elect Nawaz Sharif again, He has an economic plan for the relief of the people. The last 16 months were not for economic recovery, but to save Pakistan from default,” he clarified, adding that their government prevented Pakistan from the same fate that Sri Lanka had to endure following economic collapse. Dar continued that cases against Nawaz are now open, there was a “Panama drama” earlier and yet nothing has been proved in either cases to date. “Nawaz Sharif will be red in the cases against him. Maryam Nawaz has been acquitted,” he stated. Elaborating on Nawaz’s departure four years ago, Dar maintained that the PML-N supremo had gone for medical treatment and records for the same exist. “Nawaz Sharif has not returned to Pakistan to leave again,” he said. Earlier this week, Nawaz secured crucial bail, removing the threat of arrest upon return, as per his lawyer. After nearly four years in the United Kingdom, the former prime minister, who served the country three times, is hoping to lead his party through the general elections scheduled for January next year.
cated Rs976 billion in subsidies for the current fiscal year to maintain the circular debt at its current level, aligning with an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The SIFC is actively involved in reviewing the plan, directing the energy ministry to consider IMF conditions. The final plan will be subject to endorsement from the finance ministry. One notable aspect of the plan involves the inclusion of commercial banks’ debt in the public debt. The government had earlier decided to incorporate a portion of this debt into the public debt for re-
tirement upon maturity. The energy ministry also seeks fiscal space over a threeyear period for interest payments to independent power producers (IPPs). The Power Division projects an increase in circular debt due to interest payments and losses attributed to theft and inefficiencies. While progress has been made in reducing theft through anti-theft measures, electricity prices remain a concern for many Pakistanis. The energy ministry has proposed a strategy for settling circular debt through revised agreements with KElectric and reconciling dues with provincial governments. A multipronged approach is in place to maintain the circular debt at its current level, mainly through budget subsidies.
Short-term inflation drops by 1.7%; soars to 35.45% year-on-year g
AMONG 51 ITEMS MEASURED BY SPI, PRICES OF 14 GOODS INCREASED, 24 SAW DECREASE, WHILE 13 REMAINED UNCHANGED AGAINST LAST WEEK PROFIT
NEWS DESK
The Sensitive Price Index (SPI) for short-term inflation declined by 1.7 percent in the week ending on October 19, while on a year-on-year basis, it surged to 35.45 percent mainly due to rising prices of essential food items and electricity, as per data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). Among the 51 items measured by the SPI, prices of 14 goods increased, 24 saw a decrease in prices, and 13 remained unchanged compared to the previous week. During the week under review, the largest weekly price increases were seen in eggs (3.44 percent), powdered salt (2.63 percent), shirting (2.18 percent), mutton (1.01 percent), beef (0.84 percent), cooked beef (0.72 percent), georgette (0.52 percent), washing soap (0.48 percent), prepared tea (0.34 percent), cooked daal (0.34 percent), potatoes (0.25 percent), and firewood (0.22 percent). In contrast, on a week-on-week basis, the prices of onions dropped by 8.45 percent, chicken by 5.46 percent, pulse masoor by 3.38 percent, sugar by 3.07 percent, garlic by 2.24 percent, and broken basmati rice by 2.17 percent. The items that experienced year-on-year price hike included electricity charges for the first quintile (136.89 percent), gas charges for the first quintile (108.38 percent), cigarettes (94.46 percent), chili powder (84.11 percent), broken basmati rice (81.74 percent), wheat flour (80.73 percent), rice Irri-6/9 (71.43 percent), sugar (66.29 percent), gur (61.50 percent), gents’ sponge chappal (58.05 percent), powdered salt (57.40 percent), and Lipton tea (56.27 percent). While a reduction in petroleum prices is expected at the end of this month, transportation costs
have not been affected by these price changes, largely due to the absence of a regulatory system. The SPI has consistently remained above 30 percent for six consecutive weeks. In the previous week, the caretaker government made significant cuts in petroleum product prices, and the impact of these reductions on everyday expenses is expected to become more visible in the coming weeks. Earlier this year, in May, the SPI remained above 45 percent for three weeks after hitting an alltime high of 48.35 percent on May 4. Factors contributing to this inflation included the depreciation of the rupee, increasing petrol prices, sales tax, and electricity bills. Notably, this month’s report shows that monthly inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), bounced back to 31.4 percent in September, marking the highest level in four months. This was primarily due to administrative hikes in electricity and fuel prices. This inflation came at a time when poverty and unemployment were already on the rise. The CPI increase was primarily driven by the increase in energy prices, while the rise in prices of perishable food items slowed down to single digits. Electricity costs had risen by 164 percent compared to the previous year, and gas prices were up by 63 percent, even before the impending increase. Additionally, petrol prices had increased significantly, selling at Rs283 per liter. Non-perishable food items, including politically sensitive sugar, continued to see price increases. The CPI reading suggests that the government and the State Bank of Pakistan are likely to miss the annual inflation target of 21 percent by a considerable margin, despite the costs imposed on the exchequer and businesses due to the high interest rate of 22 percent.
CJP-led SC committee orders to compile list of cases under Article 184(3) ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The three-member committee of the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Qazi Faez Isa, on Friday made a major decision and ordered to prepare a list of cases under Article 184(3) of the Constitution. Article 184(3) gives the apex court the extraordinary power to assume jurisdiction over any “question of public importance with reference to the enforcement of any fundamental right”. The SC may assert jurisdiction either on the basis of a petition filed in the court by any party, or on its own motion referred to as a suo motu notice. According to sources, the SC registrar has been ordered to prepare the list of the cases under Article 184(3). The committee has also ordered the SC registrar to compile a list of the cases related to the interpretation of the Constitution. Five-judge larger benches of the top court will be formed for hearing constitutional cases. Justice Sardar Tariq Masood and Justice Ijazul Ahsan also attended the meeting of the committee. It has been learnt that the list of all pending 184(3) cases has already been compiled. Some of them are too old; many may have become infructuous; and some of them are very fresh and relevant. It is expected that some relevant cases would be fixed for hearing early.
Last month, Barrister Zafarullah Khan, a member of the PML-N, approached the SC seeking an appropriate order regarding the proper exercise of the court’s original constitutional jurisdiction under Article 184 (3). Moving a constitutional petition, Khan requested the court to pass judgment and issue appropriate orders in connection with objective, just, fair, and transparent criteria for the constitution of benches as well as fair guidelines for hearing of cases in the superior courts. In Pakistan, the rise of suo motu under Article 184(3) started with the advent of Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, the former CJP. He exercised unbridled judicial powers under the umbrella of suo motu that eventually threatened the rule of law. His successor, Saqib Nisar, took it to another level while many other CJPs preferred restraint. For a long time, there have been rising concerns and fears among the bureaucracy, legislatures and other power brokers of the country that the judiciary was overstepping its legal boundaries – before CJP Isa took over as the top judge– by regularly taking suo motu notices, based more on political vendetta rather than on a bona fide legal interpretation of matters of “public importance”. Critics believed that earlier, the SC had been favouring the PTI through suo motu notices by denying PML-N members the right to a fair trial. The “disqualification” judgments of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif was a case in point.
Sunday, 22 October, 2023
PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR SUNRISE
ZUHR
ASR MAGHRIB ISHA
5:30
1:30
4:15
Ch Shujaat welcomes return of Nawaz Sharif 6:07
TANK/KARACHI
The district police repulsed a terrorist attack on a police station late the other night while the Karachi Police also foiled a terror plot, by seizing 3,000 detonators brought to the city from Hyderabad. According to a police spokesman, unknown militants attacked the Gomal police station with heavy weapons late at night and tried to enter the police station. The police promptly and effectively retaliated and the exchange of fire continued for quite some time during which Gomal Police SHO Asghar Khan Wazir received bullet injuries in the neck. However, the attack was repulsed by the valiant police personnel and the terrorists managed to escape while taking full advantage of the darkness.
As soon as the information was received about the incident, District Police Officer (DPO) Iftikhar Ali Shah along with DSPs, SHOs and a heavy contingent of police reached the scene and cordoned off the area. The police also started search operation in the area. The injured SHO was shifted to a hospital in Tank from where he was referred to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Dera Ismail Khan. Later, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Nasir Mehmood Satti visited the CMH to inquire after the health of injured SHO. The RPO presented a bouquet to the injured SHO and checked the medical facilities being provided to him. He commended the valor and courage of the injured SHO and prayed for his early recovery. He said that SHO Asghar Wazir shown exemplary performance without caring of
his own life, adding that the police force was proud of him. “The determination, courage and high morale of policemen is a valuable asset of the force,” he mentioned. KARACHI POLICE FOIL TERROR ATTACK PLOT: In Karachi, the police on Saturday foiled a plot to carry out a terror attack in the port city when they arrested a man who had brought 3,000 detonators from Hyderabad in a rickshaw. The police officials said that the man named Anwar, son of Bahadur, who belonged to Swat, had brought the explosives for a terror attack in south of the port city. They informed that Anwar was transporting the explosives to a house in Baldia Town area of the city for the purpose of storage. The Force further said that so dangerous were the explosives that they could cause devastation on a large scale at any time. The
7:15
LAHORE
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan Muslim League Quaid-i-Azam (PML-Q) president Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain has welcomed the return of Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) Supremo Nawaz Sharif, emphasizing the need for national unity and reconciliation during these critical times. PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain stressed that the PML-N Supremo has to develop a strong strategy to revive the economy and combat inflation. “The people of Pakistan have high hopes for Nawaz Sharif,” Shujaat Hussain said. Shujaat Hussain urged political leaders to put aside their differences and focus on addressing the issues faced by the people. He emphasized that the priority should be on serving the nation. PML-Q president asserted that it’s not a time for vindictive politics but rather a shared responsibility to strengthen the economy, ensure the well-being of the people, and protect national interests.
No plan to privatize schools in province, says CM Naqvi RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday categorically stated that there is no plan to privatize schools in the province. Talking to media persons in Rawalpindi, he said the matter had never been under consideration and he also commended the dedicated teachers who continue their valuable service amidst baseless rumours. Earlier, the chief minister paid visit to Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Hospital where he reviewed the ongoing construction progress of the OPD and Psychiatry Block. In order to ensure the transparency, Mohsin Naqvi instructed the preparation of a detailed list of items to be procured during the construction process. On this occasion, he also announced the substantial budget of 1.75 billion rupees for the construction and repair work of the Holy Family Hospital. EXPEDITE WORK ON RAWALPINDI RING ROAD PROJECT: Meanwhile, the caretaker Chief Minister directed authorities concerned to expedite the construction of Rawalpindi Ring Road Project through hiring additional workforce. The caretaker chief minister issued the directions during his visit to the site of Khalsa Khorad Adiala Interchange. Mohsin Naqvi asked to bring more machinery and dumpers in order to accelerate the earth work and further directed NESPAK to complete the drawing work of the project on fast track basis. Later, the caretaker chief minister was briefed about the project by FWO officials. It is worth mentioning here that Rawalpindi Ring Road Project consists of six-lane with 38.3 kilometer long highway.
TTP group confirms senior commander’s killing in Waziristan clashes PESHAWAR
NEWS DESK
In a significant development, the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, a faction allied with Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operating in North Waziristan, has officially verified the death of their senior commander, Hazrat Zaman, also known as Khawarey Mullah, in clashes with security forces in K-P district’s Gharyoum area earlier this week. In a statement released to the media, the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group acknowledged the loss of their high-ranking commander, Hazrat Zaman. The statement also revealed that Hazrat Zaman had played an active role in coordinating attacks against security forces in both North and South Waziristan. On October 18, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) had also shared its own statement, detailing two fierce encounters between their troops and the terrorists in North and South Waziristan districts. The first engagement occurred in North Waziristan District, where Pakistani troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ position, resulting in the elimination of six terrorists, including the high-value target and terrorist ringleader, Hazrat Zaman, who had been actively involved in multiple terrorist activities in the area and was a prime target for law enforcement agencies. The operation also incurred a heavy cost, with three valiant soldiers, Lance Naik Tabbasum UI Haq, aged 36 and from District Rawalpindi; Sepoy Naeem Akhtar, aged 30 and from District Attock; and Sepoy Abdul Hameed, aged 23 and from District Multan, who fought gallantly and made the ultimate sacrifice. In another intense firefight between security forces and terrorists in the general area of Asman Manza, South Waziristan District, Sepoy Farman Ali, aged 25 and hailing from District Kashmore, also embraced martyrdom.
Tank police repulse attack on police station; Karachi Police foil terror plot STAFF REPORT
5:28
rickshaw had been impounded, the officials elaborated. A team of bomb disposal squad
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
was busy defusing the detonators till the filing of this report.