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HAMAS VOWS ‘FULL FORCE’ AS ISRAEL STEPS UP GAZA GROUND OPERATIONS In partnership with

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Sunday, 29 October, 2023 I 12 Rabi us Sani, 1445

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PALESTINIAN HEALTH MINISTRY SAYS DEATH TOLL CROSSES 7,703 INCLUDING 3,500 CHILDREN IN GAZA JERUSALEM/GAZA

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UNITED NATIONS WARNS OF LOOMING ‘UNPRECEDENTED AVALANCHE OF HUMAN SUFFERINGS’

At UNGA, Pakistan ‘defeats’ Western move to alter text of Jordanian peace draft

AGENCIES

AMAS said on Saturday its fighters in Gaza were ready to confront Israeli attacks with “full force” after Israel’s military widened its air and ground attacks on the Palestinian enclave amid a cutoff in internet and phone services – which telecoms firms and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said was a result of Israeli bombardments – had been continuing for more than 12 hours.

The Palestinian group that rules Gaza had said its fighters were clashing with Israeli troops in areas near the border with Israel after Israel reported intensified attacks in Gaza.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli strikes had killed 7,703 people, mainly civilians, including more than 3,500 children in the conflict so far – the fifth and deadliest in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Palestinian territory in 2005.

“In addition to the attacks carried out in the last few days, ground forces are expanding their operations tonight,” Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said at a televised news briefing, raising the question whether a long-anticipated ground invasion of Gaza might be starting.

He said Israel’s air force was conducting extensive strikes on tunnels dug by Hamas and on other infrastructure.

The Israeli military said on Saturday it had killed the head of Hamas’ aerial wing, who had helped plan the Oct. 7 attack by the Islamist group on Israel’s southern towns.

The Israeli Defence Forces said its fighter jets struck Asem Abu Rakaba, head of the Hamas Aerial Array, who was responsible for Hamas’ UAVs, drones, paragliders, aerial detection and aerial defence.

“He took part in planning the massacre in the communities surrounding the Gaza

UNITED NATIONS AGENCIES

Strip on October 7th. He directed the terrorists who infiltrated Israel on paragliders and was responsible for the drone attacks on IDF posts,” the IDF said.

‘BLACKED OUT’ In a live satellite TV broadcast from Gaza on Saturday morning, an Al Jazeera correspondent described the cut in internet and phone communications as “catastrophic” for rescue efforts following a night of heavy Israeli bombardment.

Unable to reach ambulance services, Palestinians were transporting the dead and injured to hospital in their cars, the correspondent said.

“Gaza is currently blacked out,” said Paltel, the largest telecommunications provider in Gaza.

The Red Crescent Society said it had lost contact with its Gaza operations room and its teams operating there. The Hamas-run government said rescue crews were unable to receive emergency calls.

Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors

Without Borders) said it had been unable to reach some Palestinian colleagues and that it was particularly worried for “patients, medical staff and thousands of families taking shelter at Al Shifa hospital and other health facilities.”

The head of the U.N. Children’s Fund UNICEF, Catherine Russell, said her agency too could no longer communicate with staff in Gaza.

Mark Regev, an adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, told MSNBC that Israel was starting its payback against Hamas and “Gaza will feel our wrath tonight.”

“They will continue to be on the receiving end of our military blows until we have dismantled their military machine and dissolve their political structure in Gaza,” he told Fox News. “When this is over, Gaza will be very different.”

Concerns about a risk of a wider Middle East conflict have risen in recent days with the U.S. dispatching more military assets to the region as Israel pummelled targets in Gaza

VERDICT ON NAB AMENDS

CJP-led bench to take up govt’s intra-court appeal on Tuesday ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa will head a larger bench to take up the federal government’s intra-court appeal challenging the apex court’s verdict whereby it had annul amendments to Accountability Law on Tuesday. On Sept 15, a three-member larger bench of the apex court — headed by then Chief Justice Umer Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Ijazul Ahsan and Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, had approved the PTI chief’s petition, challenging amendments introduced to the country’s accountability laws.

In the majority of 2-1 verdict, the top had restored corruption cases against the public officeholders after striking down some of the amendments made by the PDM government to the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) 1999, declaring it against the rights pertaining to the public interest enshrined in the Constitution.

Subsequently, the federal government filed an appeal under Section 5 of the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023 against the apex court’s order.

The five-member larger bench headed by CJP Qazi Faez Isa and comprising Justice AminUd-Din Khan, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Athar Minullah and Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi will hear the government’s appeal.

The top court has also issued notices to lawyers.

The government had contended that by setting aside the law passed by parliament and making amendments to the NAB law, the apex

Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 119 I 8 Pages I Karachi Edition

court had crossed its powers.

It was further contended that parliament was competent to legislate adding that it had enacted a law making amendments to the NAB law.

“If a legislation is repugnant to the fundamental rights of citizens, then the court can set it aside,” it contended but added that the amendments made to the NAB law did not affect the fundamental rights of citizens.

After the verdict, the NAB reopened cases against political bigwigs including the former prime ministers.

Last year in June, Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf Chairman Imran Khan had filed a petition in the apex court under Article 184(3) of the Constitution praying for annulling the amendments for being “ultra vires to the Constitution”.

The amendments made to the NAB law were struck down by the court including the one which limited the NAB jurisdiction to cases involving over Rs500 million and one which allowed the accused to claim the amount of plea bargain deposited after being acquitted.

The judgment authored by former CJP Bandial declared the petition of Imran Khan as maintainable on account of violating Articles 9, 14, 24 (protection of property rights) and 25 (equality of citizens) of the Constitution and for affecting the public at large because the unlawful diversion of state resources from public development projects to private use leads to poverty, declining quality of life and injustice.

The balanced Jordanian-led resolution calling for a “humanitarian truce” in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict survived a last-minute Western attempt to tilt the draft in Israel’s favour as it collapsed due to some hard work by its sponsors and a compelling speech by Pakistan’s top diplomat Munir Akram.

Canada, backed by the United States, moved an amendment ahead of the vote in the UN General Assembly that would have the draft unequivocally reject and condemn “the terrorist attacks by Hamas” in Israel which started on October 7 and the taking of hostages.

In return, Canadian Ambassador Rovert Rae, on behalf of the amendment’s sponsors, said if that language was worked into the Jordanian text, they would all vote for it.

The offer to back the resolution was meant to gather support for the Israeli push to seek international condemnation of Hamas, Significantly India, now a strategic ally of Israel, voted for the amendment which failed to muster the required two-thirds majority, having received 88 votes in favour to 55 against, with 23 abstentions.

During the lunch break the resolution’s sponsors lobbied with delegates to ensure that it retained sufficient support for passage in the 193-member Assembly.

Ambassador Akram, the permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, spearheaded the effort to defeat the amendment as

the Assembly prepared to take action on it.

In a well-reasoned speech, he appealed to all member states not to support the Canadian amendment, which he called one-sided, unequal and unfair.

While the Canadian envoy insists on naming Hamas, he does not feel the need to name Israel for killing 7000 Palestinians and injuring 17,000, the Pakistani envoy told delegates in the crowded General Assembly hall “Only Hamas. Is this balance?”, he asked.

“If you are fair, if you are equitable, if you are just, you will not blame one side and not the other. If you were to go back to the issue of who started this (conflict), we all know who started this — It is 50 years of Israeli occupation and the murder and killing of Palestinians with impunity that started this.

“When you push a people into the corner, he will respond,” Ambassador Akram added, Noting UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ comment that the current conflict “did not happen in a vacuum,” he denounced the “disrespectful” response to it from the Israeli diplomats.

“Look at the reaction that came from the Israeli representative, insulting the Secretary-General and calling for his resignation,” the Pakistani envoy said, adding, “They can’t face the truth. They can’t face justice. They can’t face the fact that the crime has originated with the Israelis.

and Hamas supporters in Lebanon and Syria.

Much of the infrastructure of Gaza, which has been living under blockade by Is-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

rael and Egypt since 2007, has been shattered by Israeli bombing.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

Alvi lauds COAS, caretakers over efforts to bring in foreign investment ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

President Dr Arif Alvi on Saturday emphasised the commendable efforts of the current caretaker federal government and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir in their pursuit of attracting foreign investment through joint-ventures to strengthen Pakistan’s economy.

Alvi, whose Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) is at loggerheads with the country’s powerful circles over May 9 riots, emphasised that with these effective decision-making by the army chief and the interim government, the country was moving towards economic stability.

In a firm commitment to safeguard Pakistan’s economic interests and enhance security, General Munir had announced in September that law enforcement actions against a wide range of illegal activities would intensify, with close collaboration between law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and government departments.

Speaking at the 15th Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) Recognition Ceremony, held at a local hotel in Karachi and attended by Sindh Governor Mohammed Kamran Khan Tessori, President Alvi lauded the business community for its potential to fortify Pakistan’s economy. He underlined the untapped potential of the nation, which could flourish with responsible actions.

President Alvi congratulated REAP on its remarkable journey, transforming exports from $300 million to an impres-

sive $3 billion. He encouraged REAP members to explore joint-ventures and prioritise the development of valueadded rice products.

The president praised the innovative “Biryani Festival” concept and extended an invitation for REAP to organise the festival at the President House. He also called for the revitalisation of rice research institutions to bolster Pakistan’s presence in the global market.

Responding to REAP’s request, President Alvi proposed the establishment of market-oriented institutions through collaboration between the government and REAP. He emphasised the importance of empowering women through employment and providing quality education to prepare the younger generation to confront the nation’s challenges. Furthermore, President Alvi condemned the ongoing brutality in Gaza.

Addressing the gathering, Sindh Governor Mohammed Kamran Khan

Tessori recognised rice as the secondlargest export of the country and lamented its previous lack of recognition as an industry. He commended the COAS for combatting ‘economic’ and border terrorism and noted the recent decrease in the value of the US dollar owing to these efforts.

Tessori expressed optimism regarding the enhancement of law and order in the country, particularly as actions were being taken against illegal immigrants.

He urged the world to raise its voice against Israeli brutality and stand in support of the Palestinians.

REAP Chairman Chela Ram Kewlani emphasised the association’s pivotal role in the country’s economy and highlighted the international recognition of Pakistani rice as a high-quality brand.

He pointed out Pakistan’s significant rice production of 9 million tons, with exports reaching Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and other regions.

PTI set to contact like-minded parties to ensure fair, transparent elections ISLAMABAD

MIAN ABRAR

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) senior leadership has welcomed the ‘encouraging statement’ by Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leadership on conduct of immediate and fair elections and provision of level-playing fields for all political parties in the upcoming elections, Pakistan Today has learnt reliably.

In a special sitting of the party’s political committee held virtually, a PTI source told Pakistan Today, the PTI leadership decided to start making contacts with like-minded political parties including the PPP, especially to evolve consensus on demands of fair-play and holding of elections at the earliest.

The source said that the political committee lauded PPP’s encouraging statements about holding of fair elections and provision of level playing fields in the upcoming elections and to evolve a joint stance on these issues.

The source said that the PTI would make formal contacts with various political parties next week to evolve consensus on major political issues. However, the source said, the major hurdle is fear that how the party leaders would avoid arrest if they surface and may be arrested.

Meanwhile, the party spokesman has strongly condemned the ongoing state coercive tactics and illegal, unconstitutional and immoral crackdown against PTI social media workers to silence the sane dissenting voices in order to force them to promote a the sate-mandated particular narrative.

PTI spokesperson expressed shock over the state ongoing countrywide crackdown against social media workers after imposing strict curbs on media and press and criminalizing criticism and dissent.

He demanded that the Supreme Court (SC) should protect the basic constitutional rights of the citizens and immediately

counter the shameful state invasion against the citizens, especially the educated youth.

The state machinery, taking the constitution and law in total disregard, has become the biggest threat to the constitution in the country.

PTI spokesperson said that Pakistan has been practically put under the grip of “martial law plus” as there was no regard for the constitution, law, morality and social rules.

He pointed out that the state was busy in violating all basic constitutional rights without fear of accountability, including the sanctity of the person, security of life and property, freedom of expression and communication, participation in peaceful political activities, fair trial, access to justice and the right to vote.

PTI spokesperson went on to say that after imprisoning of the most of the PTI leadership including its Chairman Imran Khan, and thousands of innocent workers, the state

started targeting now the social media workers to muzzle the dissenting voices.

He highlighted that the state power was unleashed to suppress criticism and dissent after wasting over Rs. 13.50 billion on the propaganda. PTI spokesperson said that the process to force the youth to promote a particular narrative was intensified in the wake of total blackout of the law against Pakistan’s most popular political party, harassment of youth coupled with their forcibly arrest or abduction.

He lamented that the state was setting up shameful and cowardly tradition of blackmailing social media workers by detaining their families, relatives and forcing them to give up using social media.

PTI spokesperson went on to say that rumour mills were being run with the nation’s tax money, while the worst propaganda campaigns were being launched against the citizens who dared to disagree with the

government’s flawed policies.

He pointed out that the state resources and patronage have been provided for complete monopoly and control over the media of the political groups of criminals with the approval of the state ahead of the general elections.

PTI spokesperson stated that after Pemra, FIA has also been tasked to suppress criticism and dissent by force, while the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was observing shameless silence in this regard.

However, he made it clear that no amount of coercion, force and fascism can compel the citizens, especially the youth, to believe in the dictatorship or its narratives, adding that despite all the state oppression, the youth would not give up their right to bring the truth before the nation.

PTI spokesperson expressed solidarity with the social media workers by demanding an immediate end to the series of abuses by the state.

02

IMRAN URGES MUSLIM WORLD TO JOIN HANDS, BRING END TO GAZA GENOCIDE

Sunday, 29 October, 2023 | KARACHI

NEWS

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday urged that the Muslim world must not just raise their voice against Israel war crimes but should move to ensure an end to the Gaza Genocide.

In a message transmitted from Adiala Jail, PTI Chairman said: “There is a genocide of Palestinians going on and it is utterly condemnable to see how the powerful are allowing it to happen with impunity.”

Imran Khan stated: “Israel is being allowed to break all international laws as it

commits war crimes and crimes against humanity in its massacre of the Palestinian people.”

PTI Chairman underlined the need that the Muslim world must not just raise their voice against this but should move to ensure an end to the Gaza genocide.

He warned: “Our people will not forgive us if we do not stand on the side of justice and humanity.”

PTI WELCOMES PPP’S ‘LACK OF LEVEL-PLAYING FIELD’ STANCE The political subcommittee of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's Core Committee announced its support on Saturday for what it described as the "right thinking" expressed

by a "responsible personality" from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

This statement pertained to the challenge to the legitimacy of election outcomes in likely absence of PTI's involvement in the process.

This thaw in relations comes on the heels of a similar political breakthrough when a delegation from PTI met with their longstanding political rival, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, this past Thursday in Islamabad.

The objective of that meeting was reportedly to develop a joint strategy to address the key issue of a "lack of levelplaying field" ahead of the upcoming

elections. The subcommittee of PTI's Core Committee convened today, delving into various facets of the party's political strategy and the current political climate in the country. The meeting centered on a review of statements made by leaders of different political parties, with particular attention given to those from the PPP. These statements revolved around the necessity of establishing a level-playing field and ensuring PTI's inclusion in the electoral process.

A statement released by PTI emphasised the positive trend that has emerged, with political parties across Pakistan increasingly stressing the need to provide equal opportunities to all political entities,

ultimately ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.

“PTI, as the largest political party in Pakistan, boasts a substantial and widespread presence throughout the nation. It stands firmly against any attempts to exclude it or any other political party from the electoral process through artificial, unconstitutional, or undemocratic methods, such as the alleged ‘London plan’,” it stressed. Such actions are perceived as detrimental to the democratic process, it added. The committee further affirmed PTI's readiness to welcome any constructive efforts aimed at guaranteeing the conduct of free, fair, transparent, and timely elections.

Envoy asks Pakistani businessmen to explore Africa through Ethiopia ISLAMABAD app

Ethiopian Ambassador in Pakistan, Jemal Beker Abdula, visited the Islamabad Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Saturday and highlighted untapped business, trade, and investment opportunities in Ethiopia and Africa.

Upon his arrival, the leadership of ICCI, including its President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, warmly welcomed Ambassador Jemal Beker Abdula.

Addressing the gathering of businessmen, the ambassador emphasized the importance for Pakistan

Pakistan’s cuisine to play role in tourism promotion: Wasi ISLAMABAD app

Minister of State for Tourism, Wasi Shah on Saturday emphasized the significant role that Pakistani cuisine can play in the promotion of tourism in the country. Addressing at the International Chef Day celebration organized by the Chef Association of Pakistan, the minister expressed his delight in witnessing the increasing participation of women in the food sector, noting the potential for job creation and economic empowerment. Pakistan's cuisine to play role in tourism promotion: Wasi He believed that alongside Pakistan’s stunning natural landscapes, its high-quality cuisine can serve as a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists. Praising the expertise of Pakistani chefs, the minister highlighted their presence in leading hotels and restaurants worldwide, underscoring their contribution to the country’s pride.

NA Speaker hails security forces for successful operation in South Waziristan ISLAMABAD app

Speaker National Assembly (NA) Raja Pervaiz Ashraf on Saturday hailed the security forces for conducting a successful operation against terrorists in South Waziristan. The NA Speaker paid tribute to the spirit of patriotism of soldiers Banaras Khan and Abdul Karim, who were martyred in the Sarwekai area of South Waziristan when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded. In his condolence message, the NA Speaker lauded the gallantry of martyred soldiers for neutralizing the nefarious designs of the terrorists. He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the martyred soldiers eternal rest and console their bereaved families over their martyrdom. Pervaiz Ashraf said that the anti-state elements wanted to spread unrest in the country, adding that the entire nation stood with the security forces in the war against terrorism.

India under Modi spoiler of peace in South Asia: experts

to establish a stronger presence in Africa, a continent with a population of over 1.4 billion people and immense potential. He stressed that Africa is the future of global commerce and encouraged Pakistani businessmen to align themselves with these lucrative opportunities.

Ethiopia, he pointed out, serves as a gateway to Africa, making it easier for businesses to trade across the continent. He highlighted Ethiopia’s remarkable status as the fastest-growing economy, producing over 97 percent of clean, green, and sustainable energy from hydro, geothermal, and other renewable sources, making it an investment haven for global

entrepreneurs.

Ethiopian Envoy asks Pakistani businessmen to explore Africa through Ethiopia The Ambassador assured Pakistani investors of the Ethiopian government’s full support, inviting them to establish dedicated economic zones in the country.

He lauded the proactive efforts of the Pakistani business community, citing a significant visit made earlier this year by over 75 Pakistani businessmen, including representatives from ICCI. The ambassador said such visits were pivotal, underlining the principle that “seeing is believing.”

KSrelief embarks on winter relief project in flood-affected regions of Pakistan ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has initiated a crucial project to provide winter relief to flood-affected and deserving individuals living in the coldest regions in Pakistan.

King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center a Saudi-based relief organization dedicated to provide humanitarian assistance to people in need across the globe said a news release.

Focused on alleviating suffering and improving the living conditions of those affected by crises, KSrelief conducted various relief and rehabilitation projects, making a meaningful impact on millions during times of adversity.

KSrelief’s winter relief project extends its reach to 12 districts in Pakistan, specifically targeting areas where communities are most vulnerable.

The designated districts encompass

Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Upper SWAT, and Upper Kohistan in the KP Province; Kalat, Sohrab, Killa Saifullah, and Ziarat in Baluchistan; as well as Astor, Ghizer, and Gupis Yasin in Gilgit Baltistan. This winter relief package included 50,000 high-quality Polyester Quilts and 25,000 winter kits, comprising of warm shawls for men and

Govt going to introduce short package for pilgrims in Hajj Policy 2024 ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Complemented by an additional allowance, the federal government introduced a short Hajj package spanning 20 to 25 days to ensure a more accommodating journey for all

Hajj pilgrims.

According to media reports, the Federal Cabinet is poised to approve the expected Hajj Policy 2024 in early November, this announcement comes alongside a host of progressive changes that aim to enhance experience for the pilgrims. For overseas Pakistanis, the

ISLAMABAD app

Political experts and analysts in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have said that India under fascist Narendra Modi is a spoiler of peace in South Asia and threats to the regional peace have increased manifold since he came to power in India. According to Kashmir Media Service, the political experts and analysts in their interviews and statements in Srinagar said that hegemonic designs of RSS-backed Bharatiya Janata Party government in India posed a serious threat to regional peace and stability. They said India has been impeding the way for decades towards a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir dispute. The political experts and analysts maintained that peace will continue to elude South Asia till the lingering Kashmir dispute is resolved as per the Kashmiris’ aspirations. They said Modi regime’s 5 August 2019 illegal actions sufficiently prove that New Delhi is least concerned about regional peace. They added that India’s continued brutal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and its war-mongering policies are affecting south Asian peace and stability. The political experts and analysts pointed out that peace of South Asia remains at peril due to India’s belligerence against its neighbors. They said Pakistan has time and again informed the world about India’s destabilizing activities in South Asia, adding that the international community must take notice of Indian role as a spoiler of peace in the region.

women, as well as cozy clothing for children and adults.

The distribution of King Salman’s relief package will be carried out transparently and efficiently, with the collaboration of the provincial government, ultimately benefiting more than 175,000 individuals across the 12 districts.

sponsorship Hajj scheme will continue, affirming the government’s commitment to facilitating the pilgrimage for its citizens living abroad.

In a move to ease the financial burden on pilgrims, sources indicate that those who opt to pay their Hajj expenses in dollars will be exempt from the lottery system. Another welcome addition is the option to choose a residence in Medina for a period ranging from 4 to 8 days.

Sources further indicated that in order to eliminate confusion and enhance the security of the luggage, all pilgrims will receive a bag with the Pakistani flag, a QR code, and pertinent information. To facilitate the application process, the government will launch a mobile app for online registration of Hajj applications.

The economy package, designed to cater to a broader spectrum of pilgrims, will cover a 40-day duration, as it was in the past. Sources indicate that more than 90,000 pilgrims will be accommodated under the official Hajj scheme.

CTD nicks 10 terrorists in IBOs across Punjab LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

The Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on Saturday claimed to have arrested 10 suspected terrorists allegedly belonging to banned organizations.

According to a CTD spokesperson, explosive material, grenades, mobile phones, and cash were also recovered from those arrested terrorists. The raids

were conducted in Lahore, Rahim Yar Khan Bahawalpur and Sargodha areas of Punjab. Cases have been registered against the arrest and a probe has begun into the matter, the CTD officials said.

Furthermore, the CTD officials said as many as 225 suspects have been taken into custody during 359 combing operations in Punjab, last week to maintain law and order situation in the province. Earlier, on October 20, two

terrorists had been killed in a gunfight with the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials in the Mardan region.

A CTD spokesperson explained that an arrested terrorist was being taken to Swabi to locate a hidden cache of arms. However, a group of terrorists attacked the CTD team in the area, leading to an exchange of fire in which two terrorists, including the arrested individual, lost their lives.

SCCI urges govt to take steps for providing soft loans to KP businessmen PESHAWAR INp

President Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Fuad Ishaq has urged government to issue directives to commercial banks to ensure provision of soft loans for promotion of small-scale businesses and industries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Fuad Ishaq was talking with Al-Falah Bank regional Business Head Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan Jamil Ahmad Savul during a meeting held here at chamber’s house, said in a news release here on Saturday. He said that distance of KP from seaport is affecting business community and exporters so commercial banks should ensure all possible facilities to the business community.

He also stressed steps to ease difficulties of business community regarding opening of letter of credits (LCs). The SCCI chief urged the commercial banks to improve lending ratio and introduce special schemes for revival of terrorism-affected and coronavirus pandemic hit businesses and industries especially the sick industrial units in KP. During the meeting, Jamil Savul assured SCCI President that the bank was taking steps to facilitate business community at every level in the province. He apprised SCCI chief about difficulties that had been confronted by management of the bank regarding setting up a branch of the Al-Falah in Industrial Estate Hayatabad Peshawar and urged the SCCI to play a role to remove all hurdles in this regard.

NUST seeks donations for Gaza’s emergency relief efforts ISLAMABAD app

The National University of Science and Technology (NUST), maintaining its previous tradition of carrying out relief efforts for those in distress, has started collecting donations for Gaza’s emergency relief efforts. The Student Affairs Directorate of the university is actively engaged in seeking donations for Gaza’s emergency relief efforts The division has asked the citizens to donate urgently needed items, including cereals, powdered milk, infant formulas, coffee mixture, biscuits, chocolates, cooked rice, cooked chicken or meat, cooked vegetables, fruits and water purification tablets, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap bars, hand sanitizers, moisturizers, a box of bandages, shampoos, sanitary napkins, pampers for children (different sizes), washing soap or powder, medicines related to surgery, trauma, orthopaedic, infection, wounds, and general medicine. The university has urged the public to join its efforts to support this noble cause by extending donations and helping bring relief to those in need. The generous contributions of people can make a significant difference, it stated.

ECP’s special benches set to review objections to delimitation on Nov 1 ISLAMABAD app

The Special benches of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will begin reviewing 1,324 objections about constituency delimitation on November 1. The ECP spokesperson said that objectors have also been notified about their hearings on November 1 and 2. After a thorough review of all objections, the official publication of constituency details is set for November 30. In response to objections filed with the Election Commission for various provinces, including Islamabad, 672 were registered in Punjab, 228 in Sindh, 293 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 124 in Balochistan, and 7 in Islamabad. It’s worth noting that the Election Commission had previously extended the deadline for filing constituency delimitation objections to 12:00 pm on October 27, 2023, to accommodate the public.

PTI’S SANAM JAVED FILES CONTEMPT PLEA AGAINST IGP, CCPO IN LHC Sunday, 29 October, 2023 | KARACHI

P

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

AKISTAN Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activist Sanam Javed on Saturday filed a contempt of court petition against Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP), the CCPO Lahore and others in Lahore High Court (LHC).

According to details, the PTI activist filed the contempt petition through advocate Shakeel Pasha and named various police officers, including the Punjab IG Police and the Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore as respondents.

In the petition, Sanam Javed said in compliance with a court order, the police officials were supposed to submit a report on the cases to the Lahore High Court.

Citing the police, the petition stated two cases were registered against her, but she was arrested in a third case after getting bail in the previous cases. She was presented before the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in connection with the two cases.

The petitioner prayed the court to take action for contempt of court against the police officers for contempt of court.

It is pertinent to mention here that Sanam Javed Khan was rearrested shortly

after the anti-terrorism court discharged her in the Askari Tower attack case on October 21. The PTI activist was rearrested from the court premises in another case related to vandalising the PML-N office.

Javed, who was allegedly involved in creating a law-and-order disturbance and attacking Jinnah House following the arrest of party chief Imran Khan on May 9, was arrested outside the prison.

MAY 9 EVENTS Violent clashes broke out across Pakistan after the former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan were arrested at the Islamabad High Court

Gujranwala’s court reserves verdict on sedition case against Capt (r) Safdar GUJRANWALA

Staff RepoRt

A local court in Gujranwala on Saturday reserved its verdict on a sedition case against Capt (r) Safdar, a PML-N leader and husband of PML-N Chief Organizer Maryam Nawaz.

Judicial Magistrate Faisalul Islam conducted hearing of the case and reserved the verdict after hearing arguments put forth by both the parties, which will be pronounced on Monday (Oct 30).

The sedition case was registered against Capt (r) Safdar on October 3, 2020, at in the Gujranwala’s Satellite Town police station in which he was accused of delivering speeches provoking people against institutions and committing sedition.

Earlier, the Judicial Magistrate Bilal Munir had issued a bailable arrest warrant for Captain Safdar.

The prosecution maintained that Capt (r) Safdar had talk against the state institutions during a presser in the session court, which created a threat to peace in the country.

(IHC) on Tuesday.

The protests were held in remote and major cities as the party workers are agitated due to their chairman’s arrest, with Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad summoning the armed forces to ensure law and order.

Army installations and Corps Commander’s house in Lahore came under attack during a protest by PTI workers.

It was also reported that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Ali Nasir Rizvi sustained severe injuries while clearing. On the other hand, a local court in Lahore on Saturday extended

“The media talk of Capt (r) Safdar is objectionable and its content falls under the category of treason and the text of the conversation of the accused is very serious and relevant to the crime.”

The prosecution has requested that action be taken against the accused Capt (r) Safdar under Section 124 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

‘LANDMARK VERDICT’ Meanwhile, Capt (r) Safdar said on Saturday it would be a landmark verdict. Talking to media persons outside court, he said court would announce its ruling on Monday (tomorrow). “We are waiting for the decision as it will be a historic decision,” he said.

Earlier, the district and sessions courts Islamabad had issued non-bailable arrest warrant for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shahbaz Gill in the sedition case. Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra heard the case on Wednesday and directed the SHO to arrest the proclaimed offender and produce him before the court. The court ended the trial of coaccused Ammad Yousaf following the Supreme Court direction.

“The Israeli occupation is the original sin in this case. It is not what happened on the seventh of October. That is a proximate cause. But the real cause is the occupation of Palestine.”

He urged the backers of the Canadian amendment “not to show that you are biased against the Palestinian people who have suffered 50 years of occupation; that you are even-handed; that you will either name both or you will name neither in this draft resolution.”

“Our purpose,” the Pakistani envoy said, “is to stop the fighting.”

“And if you only focus on your kith and kin in Israel and forget the Palestinians, because they are different people, are they people of a Lesser God,” he asked.

As regards Canada’s demand for the release of Israeli hostages, Ambassador Akram said, “The text does speak in balanced terms for the release of all who are held, not only the Israeli hostages but also the Palestinians, they have the same rights. They are human beings too.”

A loud and sustained applause rang out as Amassador Akram finished his intervention. After the amendment was defeated, the Assembly went on to adopt the resolution by a wide margin of 120 votes in favour to 14 against, with 45 amendments. India was among those countries which abstained. France broke ranks with its Western allies by voting for the resolution.

French Ambassador Nicolas de Riviere, speaking after the resolution passed, said he had voted in favour,

as “nothing justifies the killing of civilians”.

“We have to work collectively to set up a humanitarian truce because the situation in Gaza is catastrophic,” he said, noting that France has already sent an aid vessel. Under its terms, the resolution demands “the immediate, continuous, sufficient and unhindered provision” of essential goods and services to civilians throughout the Gaza Strip, including but not limited to water, food, medical supplies, fuel and electricity. It urges immediate, full, sustained, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

It encourages the establishment of humanitarian corridors and other initiatives to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza and welcomes efforts in this regard.

The resolution demands that all parties immediately and fully comply with their obligations under international law, particularly in regard to the protection of civilians and civilian objects, and enable and facilitate humanitarian access for essential supplies and services to reach all civilians in need in Gaza.

It also calls for the rescinding of the order by Israel for Palestinian civilians and UN staff, as well as humanitarian and medical workers, to evacuate all areas in the Gaza Strip north of the Wadi Gaza and relocate to southern Gaza.

The resolution firmly rejects any attempts at the forced transfer of the Palestinian civilian population.

It calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians who are being illegally held captive, demanding their safety, well-being and humane

03

physical remand of former Punjab chief minister and PTI President Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi in an illegal appointment case for two more days.

The ACE Lahore produced PTI President Pervaiz Elahi before Judicial Magistrate Imran Abid and sought his physical remand in the Punjab Assembly appointments case.

Judicial Magistrate Imran Abid approved the ACE plea and extended Ealhi’s remand for two more days.

ACE’s investigating officer Muhammad Sabtain told the court that they took Elahi to his residence on Zahoor Elahi Road, where a sum of Rs4.1 million was allegedly retrieved from his bedroom, situated adjacent to a garage on the left side. The officer emphasised that the recovery was made with Elahi’s confirmation, as he was present during the search at his house.

However, countering the ACE’s assertions, Elahi insisted that he had been in jail throughout the night and had not been taken anywhere.

Finance Minister, Chairman FBR visit Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industry KARACHI

Staff RepoeRt

Caretaker Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Dr. Shamshad Akhtar and Chairman FBR Malik Amjed Zubair Tiwana visited Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OICCI) and Korangi Association of Trade & Industry (KATI) today in Karachi and held meeting with their representatives. The meeting was also attended by all chief commissionersIR and Chief Collectors Customs heading their respective field formations stationed in Karachi.

The representatives of OICCI and KATI acknowledged the efforts of FBR field formations in taxpayers’ facilitation and revenue mobilization while also highlighting the issues like complicated tax compliance, over regulation, absence of documentation at cottage industry level, narrow tax base, non-filers, transit trade and IT glitches faced by exporters. The honorable Minister explained measures current government has undertaken to stabilize economy and to ensure optimum revenue collection.

During the meeting, Chairman FBR discussed

At UNGA, Pakistan ‘defeats’ Western move to alter text of Jordanian peace draft CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

NEWS

treatment in compliance with international law.

It also calls for respect and protection, consistent with international humanitarian law, of all civilian and humanitarian facilities, including hospitals and other medical facilities, as well as their means of transport and equipment, schools, places of worship, and UN facilities, as well as all humanitarian and medical personnel and journalists, media professionals and associated personnel, in armed conflict in the region.

It stresses the particularly grave impact that armed conflict has on women and children, as well as on other civilians who may have specific vulnerabilities, including persons with disabilities and older persons.

The resolution stresses the need to urgently establish a mechanism to ensure the protection of the Palestinian civilian population, in accordance with international law and the relevant UN resolutions, and further stresses the importance of a humanitarian notification mechanism to ensure the protection of UN facilities and all humanitarian installations and to ensure the unimpeded movement of aid convoys.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of preventing further destabilization and escalation of violence in the region, and in this regard calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and on all those with influence on them to work toward this objective.

It reaffirms that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means, based on the relevant UN resolutions in accordance with international law, and on the basis of the two-state solution.

issues raised by representatives of both bodies and assured them that their concerns will be addressed instantly. He also emphasized on recent important initiatives taken by FBR like designating 50% of RTOs workforce for Broadening of Tax Base, Track and Trace System and crackdown on non-duty paid goods.

The Minister and Chairman FBR also visited LTO, Karachi and held meeting with Chief CommissionerIR, Chief Collectors Customs and Commissioners-IR. During the meeting, the minister appreciated FBR field formations for exceeding collection target during the first quarter of the current financial year and directed CCIRs to continue making endeavours to meet the budgetary target fixed for the year.

KP begins houses registration, GIS Mapping to strengthen health sector PESHAWAR

Staff RepoRt

Under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Human Capital Investment Project, the provincial government has launched a door-to-door registration and GIS mapping project to strengthen the health sector and facilitate the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Healthcare Commission in registration and geo-tagging of health centers. According to media reports, the project is being implemented through a joint venture between Finkan Services and Ahsar Foundation, selected through an open and competitive bidding process. Financial support for the completion of the project has been provided by the World Bank. Survey teams have started door-todoor visits and are assisting health care providers in registration of health care establishments. To date, these survey teams have tagged 15,000 health centers in the Peshawar, Mardan and Malakand divisions of the province and successfully registered 3,500 new institutions on payment of a registration fee of Rs100 as prescribed by the board. All health care service providers in the province are requested to cooperate with the survey teams and facilitate them in providing the required data. All information provided will be kept confidential. The project is expected to play an important role in registration, quality control and identification of grants in the province and awareness of citizens at large.

Hamas vows ‘full force’ as Israel steps up Gaza ground operations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Palestinians said they received renewed Israeli military warnings to move from Gaza’s north to the south to avoid the deadliest theatre of the war.

Making the journey south remains highly risky amid air strikes and southern areas have also been bombed, Gaza residents said.

Many families have refused to leave, fearing a repeat of the experience of previous wars with Israel when Palestinians who left their homes and land were never able to return.

‘Fighters clashing with Israeli troops in Beit Hanoun and Al-Bureij’ The armed wing of Hamas said its fighters were clashing with Israeli troops in Gaza’s northeastern town of Beit Hanoun and in the central area of Al-Bureij.

“Netanyahu and his defeated army will not be able to achieve any military victory,” Hamas said in a statement early on Saturday, referring to the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israeli ground forces had massed outside Gaza, where Israel has been conducting an intense campaign of aerial bombardment since the Oct. 7 attack. Israel says 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 200 taken hostage, some of them foreign nationals or with dual Israeli nationality.

Since then, Palestinian health authorities say, Israeli bombing has killed more than 7,000 Palestinians.

Al Jazeera, which was broadcasting live footage overnight showing frequent blasts in Gaza, said Israeli air strikes had hit areas around the enclave’s main hospital.

Reuters could not verify the reports of the strikes near Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

Israel’s military accused Hamas on Friday of using the hospital as a shield for its tunnels and operational centres, an allegation the group denied.

‘Unprecedented Avalanche of Human Sufferings’ The United Nations warned of a looming “unprecedented avalanche of human sufferings” inside the Gaza Strip, after weeks of relentless Israeli bombing,

while the General Assembly called for an “immediate humanitarian truce”.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday that there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza.

“Given the manner in which military operations have been conducted until now, in the context of the 56-yearold occupation, I am raising alarm about the possibly catastrophic consequences of large-scale ground operations in Gaza and the potential for thousands more civilians to die,” he said.

Israel’s army relentlessly hammered Gaza on Saturday after a fierce overnight bombardment that rescuers said destroyed hundreds of buildings three weeks into a war sparked by the deadliest attack in the country’s history.

Israel unleashed its bombing campaign after Hamas gunmen stormed across the Gaza border on October 7, killing 1,400 people.

UN OVERWHELMINGLY CALLS FOR AID TRUCE BETWEEN ISRAEL AND HAMAS Meanwhile, the United Nations General Assembly on Friday overwhelmingly called for an immediate humanitarian truce between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas and demanded aid access to the besieged Gaza Strip and protection of civilians.

The resolution drafted by Arab states is not binding but carries political weight, taking the global temperature as Israel steps up ground operations in Gaza in retaliation for the worst Hamas attack on civilians in Israel’s 75year-old history.

It passed to a round of applause with 120 votes in favour, while 45 abstained and 14 – including Israel and the United States – voted no. Iraq later changed its vote to yes from an abstention after complaining of a technical difficulty, so the final tally was 121 votes in favour and 44 abstentions.

A two-thirds majority was needed for the resolution to pass, in which abstentions do not count. The General Assembly voted after the Security Council failed four times in the past two weeks to take action.

“It sends the message to everyone enough is enough.

This war has to stop, the carnage against our people has to stop and humanitarian assistance should begin to enter the Gaza Strip,” Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour told reporters.

Israel’s UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan rejected the resolution, saying the UN no longer holds any legitimacy or relevance and accused those who voted yes of preferring to support “the defence of Nazi terrorists” instead of Israel.

“This ridiculous resolution has the audacity to call for truce. The goal of this resolution truce is that Israel should cease to defend itself to Hamas, so Hamas can light us on fire,” he told the General Assembly after the vote. A Canadian-led bid to amend the resolution to include a rejection and condemnation of the “terrorist attacks by Hamas … and the taking of hostages” failed to get the two thirds majority needed, garnering 88 votes in favour, 55 against and 23 abstentions.

ASSEMBLY STRESSES PREVENTING WIDER WAR As fears grow that the conflict could spark a wider war, the assembly stressed the “importance of preventing further destabilisation and escalation of violence in the region” and called on “all parties to exercise maximum restraint and upon all those with influence on them to work toward this objective.”

The General Assembly called on Israel to rescind its order for civilians in Gaza to move to the south of the enclave. Israel ordered some 1.1 million people in Gaza – almost half the population – to move south on Oct. 12.

The General Assembly also “firmly rejects any attempts at the forced transfer of the Palestinian civilian population.” The General Assembly called for “the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians who are being illegally held captive.” It did not name Hamas anywhere in the text.

‘CONFRONTING ISRAELI GROUND INCURSION IN NORTHERN AND CENTRE OF GAZA STRIP’ “We are confronting an Israeli ground incursion in Beit Hanoun (in the northern Gaza Strip) and east Bureij

(in the centre) and violent engagements are taking place on the ground,” Hamas’s armed wing the Ezzedine alQassam Brigades said.

Israeli military spokesman Major Nir Dinar told AFP: “Our troops are operating inside Gaza as they did yesterday.”

With tens of thousands of troops massed along the Gaza border ahead of an expected full-blown invasion, Israeli forces had also made limited ground incursions on Wednesday and Thursday nights.

“The ground forces are extending the ground operations tonight,” military spokesman Daniel Hagari said late Friday.

The Israeli army said it had increased its strikes “in a very significant way”, while the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said on Telegram it responded with “salvos of rockets”.

In overnight raids, Israeli fighter jets hit 150 “terror tunnels, underground combat spaces and additional underground infrastructure” and “several Hamas terrorists were killed”, the army claimed on Saturday morning.

04 COMMENT

Women and Early Education

UN powerlessness

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Israel’s disregard of the UN makes the whole world order dubious

They are crucial

HOUGH the UN General Assembly passed a resolution called on Israel to observe a ceasefire in its attack on the Gaza Strip in response to the attacks against by Hamas on October 7, Israel has remained obdurate. The resolution was passed by 120 votes to 14, with 45 abstentions. Among those voting against were Israel itself, and the USA. The USA’s backing of Israel was more fervent than that of other firm backers on Israel, such as France, which voted in favour of the resolution, or Germany and theUK, both of which abstained. The UNGA resolution followed an attempt to get the Security Council to intervene, but that failed because of the US veto. Israel’s disobedience to the UN General Assembly is to be ascribed to the backing of the USA, which seems blind in its backing of Israel, because that backing is making nonsense of its claims to being a champion of human rights. Its clamour about supposed violations of human rights in such Third-World countries as Pakistan now ring hollow in view of how easily it is ignoring Israeli atrocities, even to the extent of backing its falsehoods (such as the claim that it did not kill around 500 people in the attack on the Ahli hospital, but the Palestinians did).

Pakistan voted for the resolution, even though it has enough experience of the failure of the UN to enforce its resolutions in the face of a member refusing to, in the Indian refusal to obey resolutions on Kashmir. It was perhaps symptomatic that India was one of the abstainers on this resolution. The problem that the UNO faces is that such disobedience renders it irrelevant.

The collapse of its predecessor, the League of Nations, should make it clear that the persistence of bad behaviour by members will lead to a loss of relevance.

What is unfolding people. The death toll in the Gaza Strip is a human tragedy, where a state has been let loose on a civilian population. Israel has subjected the Gaza Strip to its most intense bombardment so far as preparation for moving in its ground forces. Already, with 7000 deaths claimed, the death toll is frightening. The USA must remember that it has a history of mass murder since it killed off its own Native Americans. Vietnam. Cambodia, Afghanistan, Iraq… its forces have left a bloody trail wherever they have been. In Gaza, the USA risks going down in history as being complicit in the slaughter of the Palestinian people.

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Dr rAjkuMAr Singh

HE role of females in early education is multifaceted and crucial. Women, often as mothers, caregivers, and educators, play a central role in shaping the early development and education of children.

The key roles include: a. Primary Caregivers: Mothers and Female Caregivers: Women are frequently the primary caregivers in a child's early years. They provide emotional support, care, and nurturing, which are essential for a child's social and emotional development. b. Early Childhood Education. Preschool Teachers: A significant number of early childhood educators are women. Their influence extends beyond imparting academic knowledge; they also contribute to the social and emotional well-being of young children. c. Role Models: Positive Female Role Models: Having positive female role models in early education is crucial for both boys and girls. It helps challenge gender stereotypes and provides diverse perspectives. d. Educational Leadership: Administrators and Principals: Women are increasingly taking leadership roles in educational institutions, including those focused on early education. Their leadership is important in shaping educational policies and practices. e. Encouraging Gender Equality: Promoting Equal Opportunities: Women in early education can actively work towards creating an environment that fosters gender equality. This includes ensuring that both boys and girls have equal opportunities for learning and participation. f. Fostering Social Skills: Emphasis on Communication and Empathy: Women often excel in communication and empathy, which are vital skills in early education. They create environments where children feel heard and understood, fostering positive social interactions. g. Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrating Diversity: Women in early education can play a key role in creating inclusive environments that celebrate diversity in all its forms, including cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic diversity. h. Advocacy for Early Education: Advocacy and Policy Development: Women in leadership roles can advocate for policies that support early education, including funding for quality preschool programs and resources for teachers. i. Parental Involvement. Encouraging Parental In-

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi

Influence Disparities and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Joint Editor

Executive Editor

International response is also absent

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Mujeeb Ali SAMo

HE recent events in Gaza, with Israeli soldiers causing significant damage, have brought the lack of international response to the forefront. Despite the scale of the conflict, major world peacekeeping organizations like the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation have not taken decisive action. The reasons behind this silence can be traced to complex geopolitical factors, but at the heart of it lies the influence of key nations and the disparities in educational and technological advancements.

First and foremost, it is essential to acknowledge that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a deeply rooted and complex issue. The world is well aware of the suffering experienced by Palestinians in Gaza, and the calls for peace are loud and clear. However, the lack of substantial action by international organizations like the UNO and the OIC is indeed concerning. It is also worth exploring why influential nations like the USA, UK, and France, who have the potential to play a significant role in stopping the ongoing destruction, have not taken more decisive steps.

One critical factor in this lack of action is the vested interests of influential nations. It is an accepted truth that Jewish communities have had a remarkable impact on various aspects of global society, including economics, science, business, and education. As of 2023, the global "core" Jewish population, those identifying primarily as Jews, numbered 16.1 million, making up a mere 0.2 percent of the world's 8 billion population.

One area where the Jewish community has excelled is in receiving Nobel Prizes. Between 1901 and 2022, of the 954 individual Nobel Prize recipients, at least 212 have been Jewish or individuals with at least one Jewish parent, constituting 22 percent of all laureates. These figures underscore the significant influence of Jewish individuals on global

recognition and success.

In contrast, the Muslim population is vast, exceeding 1.8 billion people, making up nearly 24 percent of the world's total population. However, despite their large numbers, Muslims face challenges in terms of education, science, and technological advancements, which are vital for overall progress.

As of 2023, only 15 Nobel Prize laureates have been Muslims, with more than half of them receiving their awards in the 21st century. While eight of these laureates have been recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize, four have been awarded for scientific contributions, and three for Literature.

The disparity in educational and technological advancements is evident, with many Muslim-majority countries lagging behind in terms of education, scientific innovation, technological progress, and democratic development. These factors contribute to their lower international status in diplomacy and global influence.

One of the reasons for this disparity is the educational gap.

Jews are renowned for their dedication to education and have made significant contributions to various fields. Their emphasis on education has empowered them to excel in economics, science, and various industries, thus making them more influential on the global stage.

Muslims, on the other hand, are predominantly lagging behind in educational advancements. The lack of investment in education, especially in science and technology, has hindered their overall progress. To achieve equitable global influence, Muslims must prioritize education, research, and development.

Moreover another factor contributing to

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

Sunday, 29 October, 2023

volvement: Women often take active roles in engag- the importance of girls' education for global developing parents in their children's early education. Build- ment. Ongoing efforts are needed to address remaining strong connections between educators and parents ing challenges and ensure equitable access to is crucial for a child's overall development. j. Emo- education for all, regardless of gender.

The significance of female education in child edtional Intelligence: Emphasizing Emotional Development: Women, known for their emotional ucation is multifaceted and extends to various aspects intelligence, contribute significantly to the emotional of a child's development and well-being: a. Role Modeling: Educated Female Role Models: Educated development of children.

The history of female and child education has un- women serve as role models for children. Seeing dergone significant changes over time, reflecting women pursue education encourages children, espeevolving societal attitudes, cultural norms, and edu- cially girls, to value learning and aspire to achieve cational philosophies. Its development include: a. their academic potential. b. Educational Support at Early History: Ancient Civilizations: In some ancient Home: Enhanced Learning Environment: An educivilizations, formal education was limited and often cated mother or female caregiver is more likely to unexclusive. However, there were instances where derstand the importance of education. This women from elite families received education in knowledge translates into a more supportive home areas like literature, music, and dance. Medieval and environment for learning, where educational activiRenaissance Periods: b. Monastic and Convent Edu- ties are encouraged. c. Improved Literacy Rates: Procation: During the medieval period, some religious motion of Literacy: Educated women are more likely institutions provided education for women in con- to promote literacy within their families. They can vents and monasteries. Education was often focused engage in reading activities with children, fostering on religious studies. c. Renaissance Humanism: The a love for books and language. d. Positive Impact on Child Health: Health EduRenaissance period saw incation: Educated mothers creased interest in classical are more likely to be aware education. While education of health and hygiene pracfor women was not widetices. This knowledge conspread, some upper-class The significance of female tributes to better child women gained access to liteducation in child education is health outcomes as mothers erature, philosophy, and the can make informed deciarts. Enlightenment and multifaceted and extends to sions about nutrition, vacci19th Century: d. Emergence nations, and preventive of Female Academies: In the various aspects of a child's healthcare. e. Social and 18th and 19th centuries, fedevelopment and well-being Emotional Development: male academies emerged, Emotional Intelligence: providing education to Women, often primary women in various subjects. caregivers, play a crucial However, the curriculum role in emotional developwas often limited and focused on preparing women for their roles as wives ment. Educated women are better equipped to underand mothers. e. Late 19th to Early 20th Century: stand and respond to the emotional needs of children, Women's Suffrage Movement: The late 19th and fostering positive social and emotional development. f. Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Gender Equality early 20th centuries saw the rise of the women's suffrage movement, advocating for women's rights, in- Values: Education empowers women, enabling them to challenge traditional gender roles. Educated cluding education. f. Higher Education for Women: Women began women can instil values of gender equality in their gaining access to higher education institutions. The children, promoting a more inclusive and equitable establishment of women's colleges and universities mindset. g. Economic Empowerment: Economic contributed to the academic advancement of women. Contribution: Educated women are more likely to g. Mid-20th Century: Post-World War II: After World contribute to the economic well-being of their famiWar II, there was a renewed focus on education glob- lies. This financial stability can translate into imally. Efforts were made to ensure universal access to proved access to educational resources and education for both genders. h. International Agree- opportunities for their children. h. Global Developments: International agreements such as the Univer- ment Goals: Contribution to Global Goals: Supportsal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) emphasized ing female education aligns with global development the right to education for all, irrespective of gender. goals, including those outlined in the United Nations' i. Late 20th Century to Present: Women's Liberation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Movement: The women's liberation movement of the Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 5 (Gender 1960s and 1970s challenged traditional gender roles Equality). Recognizing and investing in female eduand stereotypes, advocating for equality in all aspects, cation is an essential step towards building stronger, including education. j. Gender Parity in Education: healthier, and more equitable societies.

Progress has been made in achieving gender parity in The writer is a Youth Motivator, presently Professor primary and secondary education in many parts of the world. Efforts have been directed towards closing of Political Science along with Dean, Student’s Welfare gender gaps in literacy and enrolment. k. Focus on (DSW), at B.N. Mandal University, Madhepura Girls' Education: International initiatives, such as the (Bihar), India. His 25 books published in addition to United Nations Millennium Development Goals and about 1000 articles in national and international jourSustainable Development Goals, have emphasized nals and daily newspapers from 25 foreign countries.

Editor’s mail

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan.

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global influence is military strength. Israel, home to a significant Jewish population, possesses advanced military capabilities, including nuclear weapons. In contrast, very few Muslimmajority countries are internationally recognized as nuclear powers. Pakistan is one among them, but it faces challenges due to economic dependencies and international pressures.

The path forward for Muslims is to focus on advancing their education, scientific research, and technological innovations. To address global issues, Muslims need to be at the forefront of scientific advancements, contributing to the world in areas like science and technology, business, and diplomacy.

The destiny of Muslims is currently in a challenging state, and it may not change in the near future unless substantial efforts are made.

Breaking free from historical traditions and bringing advancements in education, science, and technology is crucial.

By doing so, Muslims can emerge as a formidable force and share power with influential nations, contributing to global peace and prosperity.

The lack of international response to conflicts such as the Israeli-Palestinian situation is influenced by a complex interplay of geopolitics and the disparity in educational and technological advancements. While the Jewish community has made substantial contributions to various fields, Muslims face challenges in education and scientific progress. To play a more significant role in addressing global issues and maintaining peace, Muslims must prioritize education, research, and technological advancements, ultimately bridging the influence gap on the world stage.

The lack of international response to conflicts such as the Israeli-Palestinian situation is influenced by a complex interplay of geopolitics and the disparity in educational and technological advancements.

While the Jewish community has made substantial contributions to various fields, Muslims face challenges in education and scientific progress. To play a more significant role in addressing global issues and maintaining peace, Muslims must prioritize education, research, and technological advancements, ultimately bridging the influence gap on the world stage

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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

The writer can be reached at mujeebalisamo110@gmail.com

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Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

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Greenhouses

A government initiative to set up greenhouses at the district level can potentially address the scarcity of various fruits, plants and vegetables in the province. Besides, it can also boost business opportunities. The remarkable aspect of greenhouses lies in their capacity to establish a tailored microclimate and temperature. This enables precise control over heat and humidity for the plants. Whether the goal is year-round vegetable cultivation, nurturing exotic plants, or commencing planting early in the season, a greenhouse offers the ideal environment for growth.

ALI RAZA KARACHI

Schools and Laboratories

THE absence of laboratory facilities in most government schools across Balochistan is a significant obstacle in the way of effective learning, particularly of medical students. Without access to science laboratories, studies are disrupted, and educational experience is compromised. The Balochistan government should take prompt action to address the issue. The provision of laboratory facilities is crucial for quality education and progress of the students.

EHSAAN SUBZAL DASHT

Protecting Transformers

THE load on electric pole transformers is higher in summers than in winters. The efficiency of transformers is also affected by exposure to direct sunlight which results in failure of transformers, or in frequent breakdowns. A simple fiberglass enclosure can save the transformers from direct sunlight. The relevant authorities should consider the proposal seriously.

M AKRAM NIAZI RAWALPINDI

Beggars in Karachi

THE number of beggars in Karachi has increased to the extent that it is now impossible to move about with any degree of freedom.

Even the hale and hearty have resorted to begging, while children are made to beg by their guardians. Women beggars visit neighbourhoods and there have been incidents in which they acted as informers for criminal gangs. A prompt action is required to contain this social evil.

SAMNA AMEEN KARACHI

Dirty city

THERE are piles of dirt and dumps of garbage across Turbat city in the province of Balochistan. Recently, I went to the vegetable market, or sabzi mandi, and was shocked to see the lack of cleanliness in the entire area. A stench from the piles of waste made the experience rather horrible. The unhygienic environment can cause serious ailments among the residents. The public as well as the authorities are equally guilty as the people throw garbage on the streets, and there is no proper cleaning arrangement put in place by the local administration.

The people should behave like civilised citizens, and the authorities should improve the area’s sanitation system.

AURANGZEB NADIR TURBAT

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

The global ripple effect of rising US bond yields

Sunday, 29 October, 2023

Domestic development, global crisis

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DR IMRAN KHALID

HE incessant procession of interest rate hikes by the U.S. Federal Reserve has aggravated the myriad challenges facing the global economy, and particularly emerging nations are expected to face the brunt of the burden. Since March 2022, the Fed has executed a continuous upward march, pushing rates higher on 11 consecutive occasions.

This monetary tightening has interest rates perched at their loftiest point in nearly two decades, settling within a range spanning from 5.25 percent to 5.50 percent. The recent spike in the yield of the US 10-year Treasury bond, with its far-reaching consequences, has particularly cast a pall of uncertainty over the prospects for international economic growth, placing the spotlight on developing nations as they grapple with a host of daunting challenges that threaten their stability and expansion.

The escalation in yields on US bonds paves the way for an ever-widening chasm in interest rates between American bonds and those of other nations. At the same time, the momentum of the dollar exchange rate is gaining traction, foreshadowing a development that might initially seem localized but carries the potential to rapidly evolve into a global challenge.

The reverberations of this shift ripple are being felt across the globe. The emerging economies, often marked by their inherent fragility in the face of external upheaval, now confront a formidable dual threat– the surge

in U.S. bond yields and the concurrent fortification of the U.S. dollar. This unholy alliance of forces ushers in a dire amalgamation of troubles, giving rise to a host of challenges for these developing countries.

The sharp rise in US bond yields sparks a significant increase in the costs related to debt servicing for countries burdened with U.S. dollar-denominated obligations. An array of emerging economies hinges on debt denominated in foreign currencies, and as the dollar strengthens, the weight of repaying these liabilities will grow ever more burdensome. This will create a precarious scenario where the fiscal allocations of governments in these nations are forced to devote a considerable share of their budgets to debt servicing, a shift that diverts resources away from vital social and economic development initiatives.

The stronger the dollar, exacerbated by rising bond yields, it has a direct impact on the cost of imports for emerging economies.

As their currencies depreciate against the dollar, the prices of imported goods and commodities increase, leading to inflationary pressures. This can erode the purchasing power of citizens and create a volatile economic environment.

The global financial system is interconnected, and the US bond market serves as a benchmark for interest rates worldwide. The escalating strength of the dollar, compounded by the surge in bond yields, will cause a direct and unforgiving blow to the import costs borne by emerging economies. As their own currencies depreciate in the face of the dollar's ascendancy, the prices of imported

goods and essential commodities will invariably surge, thrusting these nations into the throes of inflationary turbulence. The result is a perilous terrain where the purchasing power wanes and the economic landscape becomes a volatile expanse.

It is essential to bear in mind that in our intricately interconnected global financial ecosystem, the US bond market occupies a central role, exerting a profound impact on interest rates across the globe.

When US bond yields rise, this sets off a chain reaction, causing borrowing costs to increase across the globe. One of the most immediate and direct consequences of the rise in US bond yields is the exodus of capital from emerging markets. Investors, attracted by the higher returns offered by US bonds, are quick to withdraw their investments from these countries. This capital flight can lead to severe liquidity crises and a depletion of foreign exchange reserves, leaving these economies vulnerable to external shocks. As US bond yields experience an upsurge, a domino effect is set into motion, causing a ripple of escalating borrowing costs that extends across the globe. For emerging economies that rely on international capital markets for financing, this translates into higher borrowing costs, making it more challenging for them to access the funds needed for development and infrastructure projects. One of the most immediate and unswerving consequences of this surge in US bond yields is the expected exodus of capital from these developing markets. Investors, enticed by the superior returns promised by US bonds, would hastily withdraw their investments from these nations. This flight of capital can usher

Developing countries burdened with high levels of debt should be offered debt relief or restructuring options to make their financial obligations more manageable. This can alleviate the pressure on their budgets and free up resources for critical domestic needs.

Emerging economies should work on diversifying their sources of financing and reduce their dependence on foreign-currency-denominated debt.

Exploring alternative funding options, such as partnerships with other countries or institutions, can help mitigate the impact of US bond yield fluctuations

War and dollars

in severe liquidity crises and a depletion of foreign exchange reserves, leaving these economies precariously exposed to external shocks and disruptions.

For example, Egypt was harmed by the US monetary policies, which have caused the fleeing of more than $20 billion in investments in government debt from Egypt.

The international ratings agency Moody's has cautioned about the global unsettling due to the abrupt rise in the 10-year US Treasury yield which has shaken people's confidence in the US economy and may cause the US economic expansion to go off track. This sentiment further exacerbates the challenges faced by developing nations, as the global economic landscape becomes increasingly uncertain.

The impact of rising US bond yields on emerging economies is not a new phenomenon, but it has been amplified in recent years. This confluence of economic challenges has left these nations with limited room to manoeuvre and adapt. While the USA may have its own rationale for raising bond yields, it is imperative to grasp the reverberations this sends across the global economic spectrum, especially for countries struggling with the formidable spectres of poverty, instability, and underdevelopment. Against this backdrop, International financial institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund can play a crucial role in providing financial support and expertise to countries facing external economic challenges.

This support can help stabilize their economies and prevent crises.

Developing countries burdened with high levels of debt should be offered debt relief or restructuring options to make their financial obligations more manageable.

This can alleviate the pressure on their budgets and free up resources for critical domestic needs. Emerging economies should work on diversifying their sources of financing and reduce their dependence on foreign-currency-denominated debt. Exploring alternative funding options, such as partnerships with other countries or institutions, can help mitigate the impact of US bond yield fluctuations.

While the ascent of US bond yields may ostensibly mirror the internal dynamics of the American economy, it is important to analyze the intricate web of global interconnectedness within the economic framework. What transpires in one nook of the world has the potential for profound repercussions across the globe, particularly for the world's most susceptible nations.

The recent upswing in US bond yields should act as a clarion call for policymakers, compelling them to contemplate the sweeping consequences of their choices on the international stage.

The writer is a freelance columnist

Conditions a must if Taliban joins Belt and Road Initiative Between new wars, the return of nuclear brinkmanship, and threats to the US dollar, there is good

reason to worry about the future of global peace and security. The international community urgently needs to establish new guidelines for managing financial diplomacy in an age of conflict

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PROJECT SYNDICATE HAROLD JAMES

E are inching ever closer to the first global conflict of the post-Cold War era. Two certainties that kept the Cold War world stable (albeit still dangerous) no longer hold: the nuclear balance of terror (“mutual assured destruction”) and the dominance of the US dollar, widely seen as a financial nuclear weapon.

These instruments of explosive physical and financial power had a common, peculiar feature: neither could really be used. To deploy either option was effectively to destroy oneself, owing to all the rebound effects, collateral damage, and unintended consequences that would follow. The power conferred was thus more abstract than concrete.

Now, the situation has changed. There are ongoing conflicts where someone could well grow frustrated enough to use a nuclear weapon, as Russian President Vladimir Putin has regularly threatened to do since invading Ukraine. And the dollar has already been fully weaponized as a means of deploying financial sanctions and maintaining deterrence.

True, the problems stemming from dollar dominance have been around for a long time – so long that those who prophesy its demise tend to be dismissed like the proverbial boy who cried wolf. In the late 1960s, the Nobel laureate economist Robert A. Mundell correctly pushed back against the dollar declinists of his day (mostly in France), issuing a remarkable three-part prediction that looked improbable at that time. Namely, he anticipated that the Soviet Union would disintegrate; that Europe would pursue monetary unification; and that the US dollar would remain the leading international currency throughout his lifetime. He turned out to be right on all three counts (he passed

away two years ago).

Today, however, the dollar is increasingly vulnerable to financial turbulence, readily apparent in bond markets that scrutinize longterm US public debt. These problems are partly technical, of course; but they are also political. Without uncertainties about America’s longterm fiscal position, markets would remain calm. But President Joe Biden’s administration has deployed large public investments at a time when the US Congress has become completely dysfunctional, casting doubt on its ability even to keep the government running and the debts paid. These fiscal commitments – which have produced strong economic growth – and the political impasse are both likely to be long-term features of US governance.

The dollar is also vulnerable because the rest of the world is connecting the dots behind the US strategy to defend Ukraine against Russian aggression; Middle East diplomacy, which Hamas has now derailed; and efforts to preserve the peace in the Taiwan Strait.

The dots, of course, are dollars.

As Juan Zarate, a former US deputy national security adviser, noted a decade ago, sanctions work extremely well against small and relatively isolated states; but the bigger the target, the more sanctions will hurt those imposing them.

Yet another reason for the dollar’s new vulnerability is that many Americans have grown deeply suspicious of so-called hyper-globalization and hyper-financialization.

Apparently speaking for many, the Nobel laureate economist Angus Deaton has published a new book excoriating other economists for ushering in a world so unequal as to provoke pitchforks and revolution.

The situation in America today, he suggests, is reminiscent of the social disintegration in late Soviet Russia.

The 2024 US presidential election will bring together all these elements of dollar chaos, especially if there is a recession in the meantime. Amid such high financial turbulence, that scenario may add to the appeal of those proposing that America abandon its post-1945 leadership role and policy positions. After all, the Biden administration has already kept most of the Trump-era tariffs, and US talks with the European Union on tariff reductions and countering Chinese steel exports in World Trade Organization-compatible ways have failed.

There is a very real danger that both Democrats and Republicans

will campaign on promises to turn away from globalization.

Clearly, the international community needs better guidelines for managing financial diplomacy, analogous to those developed later during the Cold War nuclear-arms race. In 1969, the world’s superpowers started taking steps to make the world safer through the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), a long process that led to the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaties. While containing and restricting the use of nuclear weapons is still a top priority for the international community, preventing financial self-destruction should be added to the agenda.

Halting the “nuclearization” of global financial channels means reconnecting with the themes of the post-1945 settlement. At the Bretton Woods Conference and the United Nations Conference in San Francisco, economics and security were considered two sides of the same coin. But the intimate link between the UN and the Bretton Woods institutions (the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank) was flawed. The five largest shareholders of the international financial institutions were also supposed to be the five permanent members of the UN Security Council. But the veto power wielded by permanent members destroyed that body’s effectiveness, and now the spirit of the veto has seeped into the Bretton Woods institutions through supermajority voting rules.

With a simpler majority-based decision-making procedure, it would be possible to institute a judicial process for dealing with and imposing financial punishments – including asset seizures – on rogue states such as Russia. Monetary Arms Limitation Talks could follow in the footsteps of SALT, culminating in a Monetary Arms Reduction Treaty.

This should be a top priority. A more robust international monetary order would generate higher security by creating a stronger global capacity to police against breaches of peace and stem the alarming increase in their frequency.

Harold James is Professor of History and International Affairs at Princeton University. A specialist on German economic history and on globalization, he is a coauthor of The Euro and The Battle of Ideas, and the author of The Creation and Destruction of Value: The Globalization Cycle, Krupp: A History of the Legendary German Firm, Making the European Monetary Union, and The War of Words.

The Taliban may view joining the BRI as an opportunity to legitimize themselves on the global stage

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ARAB NEWS

DR AZEEM IBRAHIM

S the world watches with a mix of curiosity and apprehension, the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, once deemed an international pariah, has expressed an interest in joining China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. This seemingly unlikely alliance has sparked debate on whether economic cooperation with a global superpower could help moderate the behavior of a regime known for its repressive ideology and harsh governance. The question now arises: Can the BRI offer a pathway to global normalization for the Taliban, eventually bringing them into the international fold as Afghanistan’s economy improves?

The Taliban’s overtures toward the BRI are not entirely surprising. China, with its massive economic and infrastructural projects spanning Asia and beyond, has often demonstrated a pragmatism in its foreign relations that overlooks the human rights records of its partners.

The Chinese government, while preferring a noninterference policy in the internal affairs of other nations, has shown a willingness to engage with states, or in this case nonstate actors, for mutual economic gain.

And while the Taliban remain unrecognized by the global community, they are clearly looking over the border at how Pakistan’s participation in China’s BRI ushered in a new era of economic and infrastructural development and they want some of the same. Since the inception of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in 2013, Pakistan has experienced significant benefits from this multifaceted initiative, which is poised to transform the country’s economic landscape and address long-standing challenges.

A cornerstone of the BRI’s benefits to Pakistan is the remarkable expansion of its infrastructure. The economic corridor has allocated substantial resources to projects such as the development of highways and railways and the modernization of Gwadar Port. These initiatives have considerably improved transportation networks and connectivity within Pakistan, fostering economic growth and reducing travel times.

Pakistan’s involvement in the BRI has provided the nation with significant advantages. The upgraded infrastructure, economic growth, energy solutions, trade expansion and regional connectivity have substantially enhanced the country’s development prospects. While challenges exist, prudent management and responsible governance can maximize the positive effects and ensure

the long-term sustainability of these investments, fostering a brighter future for Pakistan and its people.

The BRI, a colossal plan to connect China with the rest of the world through a network of roads, railways, ports and pipelines, is seen by Beijing as an avenue for economic expansion and the Taliban may view this as an opportunity to legitimize themselves on the global stage.

While critics argue that such collaboration might be a moral quagmire, it is essential to examine the potential advantages and disadvantages of this approach.

Firstly, it is worth noting that economic engagement can have a moderating effect on political behavior. Historically, we have seen that countries with strong economic ties are less likely to engage in conflict. Should the Taliban become integrated into the BRI, they may have a vested interest in maintaining peace and stability, which could influence their approach to regional issues.

Furthermore, economic development and job opportunities may help curb extremism by providing a disenchanted population with a more promising future. Without addressing the socioeconomic grievances that often fuel extremism, the Taliban might find it increasingly challenging to maintain a grip on power through force and coercion alone.

Nevertheless, the potential advantages come with significant risks. Firstly, there is the danger of legitimizing a regime with a record of human rights abuses and repressive policies. China’s willingness to engage with the Taliban could be seen as an endorsement and this may undermine the global human rights agenda.

Secondly, there is the issue of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Afghanistan’s future as an independent nation is at stake and the international community must respect the rights and wishes of its people. Any potential cooperation with the Taliban should ensure that the country’s sovereignty is preserved and that the Afghan people are not subjected to a foreign-imposed regime.

Thirdly, the feasibility of integrating the Taliban into the BRI hinges on their willingness to evolve and adapt. There is a long history of radical groups shifting their strategies when they see potential gains and this might be the case with the Taliban. However, they must demonstrate a genuine commitment to moderation and cooperation to earn a place at the international table.

The idea of the Taliban joining the BRI should be approached with caution and vigilance. Economic engagement can be a tool for peace and stability, but it should not come at the cost of human rights and sovereignty. Any cooperation must be conditional on the Taliban’s willingness to moderate their behavior, respect Afghan sovereignty and work toward inclusive governance.

It is crucial to remember that the world must remain focused on the well-being and rights of the Afghan people.

Their future should not be decided solely through geopolitical considerations, but rather through a genuine commitment to peace, security and prosperity for all Afghans.

While the BRI may offer a pathway to global normalization, it is ultimately the Taliban’s actions, not just their words, that will determine whether they can be integrated into the global community as a legitimate actor.

Dr. Azeem Ibrahim is director of special initiatives at the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy in Washington, D.C., and the author of “The Rohingyas: Inside Myanmar’s Genocide” (Hurst, 2017).

06 NEWS

‘INCREASED RISK’ OF ISRAELI WAR CRIMES AMID COMMUNICATIONS BLACKOUT IN GAZA

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GAZA

AGENCIES

ITH suspended phone and internet services, various media and humanitarian organisations have warned that the communications blackout might subject the besieged Gaza Strip to Israeli war crimes.

According to Palestinian telecom company Jawwal, Israel’s indiscriminate bombing has destroyed “all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world”.

The Gaza Strip after being subjected to some of the fiercest Israeli bombings, has been cut off from the world for two days amid reports by Hamas of Israeli forces making a few small ground incursions throughout the night.

Nida Ibrahim, reporting for Al Jazeera from Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, said on Saturday that there was “very, very minimal” information coming out of the Gaza Strip.

“After Gaza went into darkness with

no communications, no phones, no internet connections, Palestinians here outside of Gaza and elsewhere … feel that they are also being kept in the dark about what’s going on,” Ibrahim said.

“They can’t check on their friends, on their loved ones [and] family members to check if they’re alive or not.”

Amnesty International said it had lost contact with its colleagues in Gaza and the lack of communications was making it increasingly challenging to document rights abuses.

“This communications blackout means that it will be even more difficult to obtain critical information and evidence about human rights violations and war crimes being committed against Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and to hear directly from those experiencing the violations,” Erika Guevara Rosas, senior director of research, advocacy, policy, and campaigns, said in a statement on Friday.

The blackout runs the risk of “providing cover for mass atrocities and contributing to impunity for human rights violations,” according to Deborah

Brown, senior technology and human rights researcher at Human Rights Watch.

Cindy McCain, executive director of the UN World Food Programme, said on Twitter, now X, that the WFP has “lost contact” with its Gaza teams.

“The silence is deafening,” she wrote. Before an anticipated full-scale ground attack on the enclave, Israel increased its bombardment of Gaza, causing communications services to collapse.

In a post on X, World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the darkness is “making it impossible for ambulances to reach the injured.” “We are still out of touch with our staff and health facilities.

I’m worried about their safety,” he said.

Additionally, the Committee to Protect Journalists issued a warning, stating that there could be “serious consequences” from the “news blackout,” including the propagation of false information. Because of the cutoff, the exact number of casualties from attacks and the specifics of ground combat may not be known right away. A small number

of satellite phones remained operational.

Although there have been occasional updates from Al Jazeera correspondents in the Gaza Strip via satellite, direct connection is frequently impeded by the enclave’s almost complete communications blackout.

Reporting from Gaza City on Friday, Safwat Kahlout of Al Jazeera stated that the most recent Israeli air raids were significantly more intense than earlier ones.

“Today is the worst in terms of the strength of the Israeli fire, and we can hear some explosions … coming from the sea as well, specifically in the north of the Gaza Strip,” Kahlout said.

Reporting from Khan Younis in Gaza, Tareq Abu Azzoum of Al Jazeera stated on Friday that the people there were left “totally isolated” and were “terrified and afraid.”

Israel has responded to Hamas’s October 7 attacks inside the nation with many airstrikes on Gaza, claiming that 1,405, primarily civilians, were killed.

Palestinian officials claim that Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 7,703 Palestinians, including 3,595 children.

APHC flays IIOJK authorities for repeated closure of Jamia Masjid, house arrest of Mirwaiz SRINAGAR

Chinese RMB makes steady progress in internationalization: PBOC BEIJING

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The Chinese renminbi (RMB) is making steady progress in becoming a more widely used currency in the global economy, according to a report released by People’s Bank of China (PBOC).

One of the most notable trends highlighted in the 2023 report on Chinese RMB internationalization is the increased use of the currency in trade and investment. In 2022, banks handled 42.1 trillion yuan ($5.14 trillion) in cross-border yuan payments, up 15.1 percent year-on-year.

In the first nine months of 2023, cross-border RMB payments reached 38.9 trillion yuan, up 24 percent year-on-year. Of that, almost a quarter was used for trade settlements, the highest level in recent years.

The report also showed that the RMB’s function as a financing currency has been built upon. A number of policies have been introduced to support the issuance of RMB bonds by foreign institutions in China and the lending of yuan by domestic banks to overseas entities.

At the end of 2022, the total amount of outstanding international RMB-denominated debt securities was $173.3 billion, up 2 places on the rank, to seventh globally, according to the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).

SWIFT data showed that the RMB’s share of global trade finance was 3.91 percent at the end of 2022, up 1.9 percentage points year-on-year, ranking third. In September 2023, the currency’s share of global trade finance rose to 5.8 percent, up 1.6 percentage points year-on-year, ranking second.

Overseas yuan markets have also become more active. In 2022, the PBOC signed a standing swap agreement with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and expanded the size of the currency swap, further deepening financial cooperation between the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.

A 2022 survey by the BIS showed that the RMB’s share of global foreign exchange trading has grown from 4.3 percent to 7 percent in the past three years, climbing up on the rank from the eighth to fifth place.

The PBOC said it will continue to promote the orderly internationalization of the RMB and better meet the needs of business entities using the currency in cross-border trade and investment.

STAFF REPORT

The All Parties Hurriyat Conference has condemned the occupation authorities for disallowing Juma prayers at Jamia Masjid Srinagar and placing senior APHC leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, under house arrest.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the APHC spokesman in a statement in Srinagar said that for the third consecutive Friday no prayers were allowed at the Jamia Masjid Srinagar and Mirwaiz was once again for the third consecutive Friday placed under house arrest.

He said, the repeated closure of the historic mosque and house detention of Mirwaiz are reminders of the real situation in IIOJK and its so-called normalcy.

The spokesman said that no reason for these restrictions was given by the authorities. He said if the reason is fear of display of support and solidarity by the people of Kashmir with the hapless people of Palestine being bombed and butchered by Israel, that

solidarity was and will be there for them as fellow humans and Muslims. He said, Kashmiris stand with the people of Palestine irrespective of bans and restrictions on them.

The spokesman said the way Israel is carrying out the genocide of Palestinians with impunity, Kashmiris known for their conscientious and human approach in such matters will always support the genuine right of the people of Palestine over their land and life.

“While thousands of children of Gaza have been bombed to death, hospitals and homes are being razed to ground, the war on Palestinians – a blot on humanity – continues uninterrupted and those who claim to be champions of human rights and freedoms are either supporting it or silent,” the spokesman deplored.

The spokesman maintained that war can never bring peace, it only leads to destruction and creates more mistrust, insecurities and cruelties. He prayed to Allah Almighty that better sense prevails and the people of Palestine are saved from further agony and their rights restored to them.

Heavy turnout expected in Surrey Khalistan Referendum after PM Trudeau’s statement VANCOUVER STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The Council of Khalistan President Dr. Bakhshish Singh Sandhu has asserted that the assassination of pro-Khalistan Canadian Citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar has ignited unwavering support for Khalistan’s independence within the Sikh community, vividly demonstrated by their gathering at the Gurdwara where Nijjar’s life was tragically taken away by the Indian agents on June 18 this year.

Ahead of Khalistan Referendum voting on Sunday, October 29 here at Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in support of Khalistan, Dr. Bakhshish Singh Sandhu announced that the Sikh community is poised to cast a historic number of votes in the referendum set to take place at Shaheed Nijjar Centre.

The veteran Khalistani leader mentioned that Canadian Prime

Minister Justin Trudeau had affirmed in the Canadian parliament that Nijjar’s assassination was the work of Indian secret agencies, operating from Indian consulates in Canada. Furthermore, the world’s leading nations, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have held India responsible for Nijjar’s murder and have called for India’s accountability, said Dr Sandhu, adding that India has acted as a rogue state.

Dr. Bakhshish Singh said that India has openly violated Canada’s sovereignty and independence by killing and threatening Canadian nationals. The Sikh leader said that the world may not have believed in Sikhs when they said India was involved in their genocide but the statement by the Canadian prime minister has proven to the world that Sikhs were right.

Prominent world powers have endorsed the idea of a democratic

referendum, considering that Sikhs are pursuing a legitimate campaign for the independence of Punjab and the establishment of a separate Sikh homeland, he said.

Avtar Singh Pannu, Coordinator of Sikhs for Justice, said that agents of Indian secret agencies shot `Nijjar with 50 bullets in an attempt to prevent him from organizing Khalistan Referendum in Canada.

45-year-old Hardeep Singh Nijjar was fatally shot outside the same Sikh temple in Surrey, a Vancouver suburb with a significant Sikh population, where the second phase of Khalistan Referendum will take place on Sunday. Nijjar was an advocate for a Sikh homeland in Punjab, minutes before his killing he delivered his last speech in support of Khalistan Referendum, Avtar Singh Pannun said.

He said that second phase of the referendum voting is going to take place at the exact spot.

Sunday, 29 October, 2023 | KARACHI

Gas theft crackdown: Another 193 connections disconnected in Punjab, KP and Islamabad

LAHORE: During the ongoing crackdown against gas pilferers, SNGPL continued raids in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad, disconnecting another 193 connections while imposing fine of Rs. 16.4 million and 592 under billing cases processed In Lahore, the regional team disconnected 54 connections on illegal use of gas and another 4 on use of compressor, 53 Under billing cases have been processed and amount of Rs 12.33 booked against gas theives and under billing cases. In Bahawalpur, the regional team disconnected four connections on use of compressor and 21 Under billing cases have been processed,fine imposed 0.002m against under billing cases . The company disconnected 4 connections on illegal use of gas ,33 Under billing cases have been processed and fine of Rs 0.09 Million imposed against gas pilferers in Multan. In Sheikhupura, 21 on illegal use of gas and 37 Under billing cases have been processed, amount of Rs 0.41 booked against gas theives and Under billing cases. PR

Protest breaks out against prolonged loadshedding in Karachi KARACHI INP

Protests broke out against prolonged electricity loadshedding in Numaish area of Karachi.

As per details, the residents of Numaish and surrounding areas held a protest against the prolonged load-shedding. According to police officials, the protestors were baton-charged to disperse them amid the worst traffic jam.

Earlier, K-Electric reportedly extended the duration of load shedding in the wake of an incident where KE employees were assaulted by traders in Timber Market, Karachi.

Grand final of LSC Polo in Pink 2023 being held today LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The thrilling conclusion of the Lahore Smart City Polo in Pink 2023 is just around the corner, with the main and subsidiary finals set to take place on Sunday (today) here at Lahore Polo Club ground.

Reflecting on a spectacular week of polo, Lahore Polo Club executive committee member Feroze Gulzar expressed his delight, saying, “Throughout the week, international women players showcased exceptional polo matches that captivated a substantial audience, delivering excitement and entertainment.”

In the upcoming main final, Lahore Smart City Polo Team will take on Pebble Breaker, while preceding this, the Subsidiary Final will commence at 1 o’clock featuring FG Polo and DS/Sheikhoo Steel teams.

Spectators can also look forward to a pre-final extravaganza, featuring javelin, shooting, a sports bike parade, and various other events. Notably, a substantial number of showbiz stars are expected to attend the final.

Moreover, an international women’s polo match took place on Saturday, as Lahore Smart City Pink Ribbon White Team triumphed over Lahore Smart City Pink Ribbon Blue Team with a score of 7-3. For the White Team, Charlotte Amy and Chloe Victoria each scored three goals, with Natasha Monica contributing one goal. Meanwhile, Hadise Sultani, Philippa Henry, and Domenique Theones netted one goal each for the Blue Team.

The Lahore Smart City Pink Ribbon White Team featured Natasha Monica, Scott Natasha, Chloe Victoria, and Charlotte Amy, all hailing from England. The Lahore Smart City Pink Ribbon Blue Team comprised Saeideh Afjeh (Iran), Hadise Sultani (Iran), Philippa Henry (Australia), and Dominique Theones (England).

Wang, Biden discuss potential meeting of heads of state in San Francisco WASHINGTON

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

China’s top diplomat and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with US President Joe Biden in the White House on Friday with an objective to communicate with the US and effectively implement the important consensus reached at the meeting between the two heads of state in Bali last year.

Wang also told Biden he looks forward to San Francisco, in order to promote the stabilization and recovery of China-US relations for it to quickly return to a healthy and stable development track.

Analysts said Wang’s visit marks an extension of the warming atmosphere in ChinaUS high-level interactions since May this year and was set to create the necessary conditions and pave way for higher level exchanges between the two countries. The onus of putting bilateral relations on track lies entirely on the US, as the US is urged to abandon its selfish and condescending gestures in ties with China like cracking down on China in some areas to maintain the US’ hegemony.

During his meeting with Biden, Wang, also director of the Office of the Foreign Af-

fairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, stated that the one-China principle and the three joint communiqués between China and the US are the most important political foundation for bilateral relations, and must be upheld without interference.

China attaches importance to the US desire for stabilizing and improving bilateral relations, Wang said, noting that all parties should act responsibly toward the world, history, and people, and promote the stable and positive development of China-US relations based on the three principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation proposed by President Xi Jinping.

This not only serves the fundamental interests of both countries and their peoples but also meets the common expectations of the international community.

Biden expressed that the US side is willing to maintain communication with China and work together to address global challenges.

During his US visit, Wang also held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. “Taiwan secessionism” is the greatest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan

Straits and the biggest challenge to ChinaUS relations, and must be firmly opposed in specific policies and action, Wang told Sullivan. The two agreed to a joint effort for a potential meeting between the two heads of state in San Francisco. Wang and Sullivan engaged in communication on issues of mutual concern, including China-US relations, high-level exchanges between the two countries, and the Palestine-Israel conflict.

Chinese experts said that Wang’s visit took place at the invitation of Blinken, and the series of talks he had with US high-level officials demonstrated the US’ strong desire to both stabilize and enhance wide-ranging communication with China.

Wu Xinbo, director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, said that the Biden administration’s eagerness in reaching out to China was partly out of hope for a successful and productive hosting of APEC, as it tries to send a signal to a domestic audience that Biden is capable of stabilizing China-US relations while engaging in intense competition with Beijing.

The US is set to host APEC in 2023 under the theme of “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All” in San Francisco.

Diao Daming, an associate professor at Renmin University of China in Beijing, told the Global Times on Saturday that “the accelerated interaction between China and the US has led to a more stable atmosphere between the two countries. Only if a similar tone is maintained will more higher-level exchanges have meaning.”

Diao pointed out that Wang’s reference to “looking forward to San Francisco” means the two countries are making an effort to create a more favorable atmosphere for potential higher level meetings.

When meeting with Blinken on Thursday, Wang said that jarring voices are often heard on China-US relations, but China is calm about them because China believes the criterion for right and wrong is not determined by who has more bravado or a louder voice, but by whether one behaves in line with the provisions of the three China-US joint communiques, with the international law and the basic norms of international relations, and with the trend of the times.

Diao pointed out that the US is now exercising a “à la carte” manner of cooperating with China, which means the US points out areas it is willing to cooperate while still

cracking down on China in other areas to maintain its hegemony.

For example, on Thursday, the US IndoPacific Command claimed that a Chinese fighter jet executed an “unsafe intercept” of a US Air Force B-52 aircraft over the South China Sea this week, according to US media.

To show the truth of the US’ close-in reconnaissance on China’s doorstep, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense published video footage to show that the US is the provoker and trouble maker.

Chinese experts said if the US is sincere in pushing for a meeting between the two heads of state, it should abandon its doublefaced and condescending behavior, commit in actions to create benign atmosphere between the two countries. Diao noted that if the meeting between the heads of state is realized, it will not only inject crucial vitality to bilateral relations, but also help create global stability for a world in turmoil.

Wu said that the window opportunity for the two countries to stabilize ties is rather short, as China will closely watch if the US will return to its reckless crackdown on China after the possible higherlevel meeting.

Sunday, 29 October, 2023 | KARACHI

CORPORATE CORNER Pakistan Auto Show 2023 Day-2: Symposium held on Future Path for Auto Parts Industry at PAPS

KARACHI: A symposium on ‘The Future Drive: innovations, exports, trends, and way forward for auto parts manufacturers’ was held on the second day of the Pakistan Auto Show on Saturday at Karachi Expo Center.Imtiaz Rastgar, an export specialist, discussed export possibilities for light engineering and vendor industries and said that Pakistan’s vendors need to enter into the world market.“The options for vendors and parts manufacturers are quite many which include orthopedic implants, hardware and building material, gearbox market, steering wheel, hydraulic pumps, pistons etc.,” said Imtiaz.Danial Malik, Chief Executive Master Changan Motors, said in his address that Pakistan has one of the lowest motorization ratings with 17 vehicles per 1000 persons.“We need to have strategic free trade agreements with RHD and CBU markets and give incentives and subsidies to grow our auto industry,” said Danial. PR

Descon Engineering, Engro Polymers sign MoU for asset life cycle management

KARACHI: Descon Engineering Limited (DEL) and Engro Polymer & Chemicals Limited (EPCL) are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further enhance their more than three decade-long partnership. This significant milestone, marks a renewed commitment to mutual collaboration in the field of plant maintenance, shutdowns, reliability, and asset performance management to ensure sustainable operations.The MoU was officially signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Descon Engineering, Mr. Taimur Saeed, and the Chief Executive Officer of Engro Polymer & Chemicals Limited, Mr. Jahangir Piracha, solidifying the intent of both organizations to work together for the long-term benefit of their valued clients.Mr. Taimur Saeed stated: "This Memorandum of Understanding is a testament to the enduring partnership between Descon Engineering Limited and Engro Polymer & Chemicals Limited. We are committed to bring our overseas experience in our collaboration with Engro Polymer to provide top-notch services and unmatched value to our clients. Together, we will continue to raise the bar in the industry." PR

Faysal Bank unveils strong financial results for nine months

KARACHI: Faysal Bank Limited (FBL), a leading Islamic bank in Pakistan, has recorded an operating profit of PKR 28 Billion, an increase of almost 100% as compared to the same period last year. Net profit for the same period was recorded at PKR 12 Billion, showcasing healthy business fundamentals as well as prudent risk management.The Bank recently published financial report for the first nine months which reveals that FBL kept up its traditional strong performance with an improvement across nearly all metrics. The Bank’s total assets reached PKR 1.3 Trillion and net advances increased to nearly Half a Trillion, reflecting growth across all lending businesses by capitalizing on opportunities while maintaining a cautious approach to risk management.

Deposits increased by 21.5% and reached PKR 950 Billion, whereas Current Accounts grew by 20% to reach PKR 332 Billion. This achievement has strengthened the bank's financial position and highlights its ability to meet the evolving needs of its growing customer base. Earnings per share have also shown an increase, soaring from PKR 5.05 to PKR 7.94. Additionally, the bank announced an interim cash dividend of Re. 1/- per share i.e. 10%. PR

IESCO power suspension schedule for today, tomorrow

According to Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO)s spokesman, System Maintenance/Development Work is in process.

Therefore power supply of below mentioned feeders/areas will be temporary suspended as per given schedule:On 28th October 2023, From 08:00 AM to 01:00 PM, Islamabad Circle, SES, Fazal Ghee, NDC.I, H-11/4, I-10/2, New Exchange, Kidney Centre, Dr. A.Q. Khan, Islamic University, Bahria University, G-10/1, G-10/2, G-10/4, G-9/1, CWO, Dhok Najo, Raja Sultan, Eid Gah Feeders, Rawalpindi City Circle, Race Course, Askari XI, Masrial Road, Medina Town, NRC, Iqbal Road, Subhan Shaheed Feeders, Chakwal Circle, Dhok Pathan, Adi Kot Sarang, Bilalabad, Thai, Malkwal, Main Bazar, Murat, Medina Town, Baharpur Feeders. , From 07:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, Islamabad Circle, FHS, I-8/4 Feeders, Rawalpindi City Circle, Khanna Road, Gulzar Quaid, Airport, Gangal, SPD.II, PAF , RIC, Gracie Line, Rahmatabad.I, Jehangir Road, VVIP, Rahimabad, BB Shaheed, Service Road, Muslim Town, KRL, Jinnah Camp. PR

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PM FELICITATES PEOPLE OF TURKIYE ON 100TH REPUBLIC DAY NEWS

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ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Sunday felicitated the people of Turkiye on the occasion of the 100th Republic Day of the country.

"On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, I extend our warmest felicitations to the brotherly people of Turkiye on the auspicious occasion of the centenary of the Turkish Republic," the prime minister said in his message.

As the Turkish Republic was first proclaimed by the Turkish Grand National Assembly, in Ankara on October 29, 1923, this momentous occasion also marked the culmination of the Turkish nation’s heroic struggle for freedom, led by the charismatic Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, he added.

PM Kakar said the resolute grit and

determination of the Turkish nation to preserve their independence continued to inspire freedom-loving people across the world.

During the last one hundred years, Turkiye has made impressive strides across all walks of life. Under the dynamic leadership of President Recep

Tayyip Erdogan, Turkiye’s economic transformation and its role in promoting the mutually reinforcing goals of peace and prosperity are globally recognized.

As the Turkish Republic marks its centennial, we, in Pakistan, rejoice with our Turkish brothers and sisters on their innumerable accomplishments.

Int’l conference on ‘Climate Change and Disaster Risk’ concludes at QAU ISLAMABAD

INP

stated, "The increase in temperature and ocean surface levels will exacerbate the situation in the future. It's time to persuade policymakers and society as a whole to transition towards alternative sources of energy.

Chairperson of the Department of Earth Sciences and Project Director (CPJRC) Dr. Mumtaz Shah said, the climate change, has been aggravating natural disasters in recent years, has become a global concern.

The unprecedented flood in Pakistan in 2022 is a particular example. “Its a global phenomenon, and global collaboration is necessary to tackle the problem." He added. Dr. Mumtaz Shah said that Pakistan Joint Research Centre on Earth Sciences (CPJRC) at Quaid-i-Azam University will serve as a platform for joint research and collaboration in the fields of Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management.

Interim health minister reviews performance of govt teaching hospitals LAHORE INP

Caretaker Punjab Health Minister Prof Dr. Javaid Akram attended a conference here on Saturday and reviewed performance of all government teaching hospitals in the province. The conference, held at a local hotel, was attended by vice chancellors, principals and medical superintendents of government medical universities, colleges and the teaching hospitals. The participants placed a strong emphasis on leadership qualities for hospital heads. Dr. Akram emphasised that Punjab's healthcare system surpassed those of other provinces, attributing it to a historic focus on improving healthcare.

The minister praised introduction of Primary angioplasty services as a game-changer in cardiology hospitals, with over 10,000 procedures performed so far. He mentioned ongoing visits to government hospitals to assess healthcare facilities and urged healthcare professionals to complete their vaccinations.

Dr. Javed Akram also highlighted the health facility programme's role in providing uninterrupted healthcare services to the public and ongoing efforts to strengthen the human resources in government hospitals.

Dr. Akram expressed a strong commitment to enhancing healthcare facilities for the people of Punjab.

Additionally, he mentioned the creation of patientfocused facilities in government hospitals, the implementation of health screening in educational institutions, and initiatives to promote research in medical institutions across Punjab.

The health minister also honored the exemplary service of Principal Allama Iqbal Medical College, Professor Dr. Nadim Hafeez Butt, and reaffirmed the Punjab cabinet's unwavering commitment to public service and improving the conditions of government hospitals in the province. During the conference, both the Provincial Health Minister and the Secretary of Health for Punjab, Ali Jan Khan, assessed the performance of government teaching hospitals.

RECALIBRATE STRATEGY ON KASHMIR

Masood Khan urges Kashmiris to build their own Information Ecosystem ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

“The plight of Kashmiris is even worse than Palestinians. There are 900,000 active duty soldiers who are their sentinels. Kashmiris are being targeted by the occupation forces every day. There are killings, arrests, sexual violence, land grab.

This is all documented,” said Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, says a press release received here today from Washington DC. “Palestinians have an observer status in the United Nations. They have a quasi-diplomatic status. The voices for the Palestinians can be heard in all capitals of the world.

Kashmir does not have a strong international voice or lobby,” he continued. “Kashmiris should build their own competence to win our freedom,” he said.

Masood Khan said the people of Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir are ready for talks under the auspices of the UN, bilaterally and through the facilitation of third party.

Addressing a Seminar on the occasion of Kashmir Black Day at the Embassy of Pakistan Washington DC, Ambassador Masood Khan said that there was a need to recalibrate our strategy the issue of Kashmir.

The strategy that we've been pursu-

Rs 417.6m fine imposed on 3,309 power pilferers FAISALABAD

STAFF REPORT

The three-day International Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Risk organised by China-Pakistan Joint Research Centre on Earth Sciences (CPJRC), Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) in collaboration with Chinese Academy of Science, Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan Academy of Science (PAS) and International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research concluded at QAU. The objective of the conference was to explore the impact of climate change on natural disasters, reduce disaster risk, and raise people's awareness of preventing disasters and mitigating disaster effect.

While addressing the closing ceremony, Caretaker Minister for Higher Education, Muhammad Qasim Jan, emphasised the importance of energy conservation. He

He highlighted Pakistan and Turkiye enjoy fraternal relations rooted in abiding ties of religion, culture and history. Speaking to the first Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam said, “The Muslims of Pakistan entertain sentiments of affection and esteem for your country, and now Turkiye and Pakistan both as free, sovereign and independent countries, can strengthen their ties more and more for the good of both”. It is a matter of great satisfaction that our bilateral relations have continued to grow from strength to strength with every passing day.

He said institutional mechanisms including the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) and the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) had provided a leadership-driven, peoplecentric and future-oriented focus to steer bilateral partnership in areas such as defence, economy, health, education, agriculture, tourism and culture.

ing for the last several years has not produced results. In the meantime, IIOJK “India has violated all international laws and conventions in IIOJK. They have violated political, economic, social and cultural rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Masood Khan said.

“They have violated the ICC statutes with impunity,” he continued. “We haven't achieved our goal but we will persevere in our struggle. We will not give up the struggle under any circumstances,” he said.

“When you try to sweep such issues under the carpet, they erupt with intensity as it has happened in the case of Palestine,” he cautioned the international community.

Masood Khan said that the right to self-determination of the people of Jammu & Kashmir was inherent even if there were no UN Security Council Resolutions. The UN resolutions passed in accordance with the Charter recognize the inalienable rights of the Kashmiris to choose their own political future. He said that the Indian leadership including Mahatama Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Mr. Patel and others had failed to convince the Kashmiris to join India. Kashmiris, he said, always wanted to opt for Pakistan.

He said that Maharaja of Kashmir and Sheikh Abdullah betrayed

the people of Kashmir.

“India would never have occupied large swaths of Jammu and Kashmir militarily without explicit consent and support of Sheikh Abdullah. So it was a managed and fake accession,” he observed. “While we should look towards past, we should continue to strive and change ground realities for the future.”

“You must have your regional and international information ecosystem. Today truth becomes falsehood and falsehood is projected as truth and therefore, you have to have your own set of facts and data, and vehicles to broadcast the truth ,” said the Ambassador while addressing the Kashmiri leaders in the United States.

The messages of the President of Pakistan and Caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan were read on the occasion. Former Norwegian MP Lars Rise, speaking to the gathering via Zoom, underscored the need for making world leaders realize about the gravity of the situation and the need to find permanent solution to the long-standing issue.

President Islamic Circle of North America Dr. Mohasin Ansari in his remarks observed that the voice for justice may take long but truth and justice would finally prevail.

The Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) caught 3,309 power pilferers during last 50 days and imposed a fine of over Rs.417.6 million for stealing electricity in various areas of the company during the ongoing special anti-power theft drive.

Spokesman Tahir Sheikh said here on Saturday that over 8.98 million detection units were charged. A sum of over Rs.239.8 million was also recovered from the defaulters. He said that 3172 cases were registered against power theft in various police stations whereas the police also arrested 2637 pilferers so far.

He further said that the FESCO teams detected electricity theft at 1077 points in Faisalabad district and imposed a fine of Rs.134.7 million on them under the head of 2.886 million detection units.

In Jhang district, the FESCO teams caught 340 electricity thieves and imposed a fine of Rs.51 million under 1200,000 detection units.

Similarly, 347 cases of electricity theft were detected in Bhakkar district and the company handed down the power pilferers with a fine of Rs.45.2 million under 879,000 detection units.

He further said that 361 electricity thieves were caught from Chiniot district and they were imposed a fine of Rs.51.2 million under 1103,000 detection units. In Khushab district, 110 consumers were found involved in electricity theft and they were handed down with a fine of Rs.17.8 million for 367,000 detection units.

The FESCO teams also caught 414 power pilferers from Mianwali and they were fined with Rs.40.8 million for 900,000 detection units.

In Sargodha district, 363 cases of electricity theft were detected. Hence, a fine of Rs.38.9 million was imposed on the electricity thieves under 867,000 detection units.

The FESCO teams also caught 263 electricity thieves from Toba Tek Singh district. Therefore, the company imposed a fine of Rs.33.3 million for 664,000 detection units, spokesman added.

Drug dealer held with 1200g hashish TANK INP

The crackdown against the menace of drugs was continued successfully in Tank as the district police arrested another drug dealer, recovering 1200 grams of hashish within the limits of the city police station.

According to a police spokesman, the city police team led by SHO Mehtab Khan, taking action on a tip-off, arrested an accused drug dealer named Wajid Ali, son of Usman Ghani, and recovered 1200 grams of hashish from his possession. A case has also been registered against him.

Meanwhile, three absconders appeared before the city police after getting bail orders from the court and were wanted by police in different cases. The absconders included Shabbir alias Takar, son of Bashir Ahmad; Amjad, son of Din Muhammad; and Shehryar, son of Alamgir.

Similarly, another absconder, namely Kameen Shah, son of Sher Zaman, also appeared before the Malazai Police Station after getting bail orders from the court.

JUI chief reaches Quetta to address Tofan Al-Aqsa procession QUETTA INP

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman reached Quetta on a three-day visit, JUI office bearers said on Saturday. Former MNA Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidari and JUI Digital Media Chief Engineer, Ziaur Rehman are prominent among others who accompanied the JUI chief.

JUI Provincial Amir Maulana Abdul Wasey, Syed Mahmood Shah and other leaders received the senior leadership at Quetta Airport.

Maulana Fazlur Rahman will address the Tofan AlAqsa gathering at Quetta Ayub Stadium tomorrow.

(Sunday). The JUI has finalized preparation for holding a peaceful rally against the Israeli bombardment on civilian and blockade of Gaza.

Sunday, 29 October, 2023

soldiers martyred PUNJAB ACE CLAIMS RS4.1M ‘RECOVERED’ Two in South Waziristan FROM PARVEZ ELAHI’S RESIDENCE PRAYER TIMINGS

NEWS

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FAJR SUNRISE

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ASR MAGHRIB ISHA

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RAWALPINDI

LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

HE Punjab Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) on Saturday informed a Lahore district and sessions court that it had allegedly recovered Rs4.1 million from the house of PTI President Parvez Elahi in a case pertaining to illegal appointments in the Punjab Assembly.

Elahi’s counsel Advocate Amir Saeed Rawn, on the other hand, disputed the claim, terming it a “bogus recovery”.

Last month, the Punjab Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) arrested Elahi on charges of appointing Muhammad Khan Bhatti as his principal secretary

during his tenure as the chief minister. It alleged that Bhatti’s appointment was not in accordance with the law.

The PTI president has been arrested more than a dozen times in various cases since the start of June and after a statewide crackdown was launched against the party in the aftermath of the May 9 violence.

On Sept 1, the Islamabad police rearrested Elahi under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) ordinance near his residence soon after the LHC set him free and issued a restraining order against his possible arrest by any agency or preventive detention.

Elahi was presented before the court of Judicial Magistrate Imran

Abid on Saturday.

ACE’s investigating officer Muhammad Sibtain told the court that they took Elahi to his residence on Zahoor Elahi Road, where a sum of Rs4.1 million was allegedly retrieved from his bedroom, situated adjacent to a garage on the left side.

The officer emphasised that the recovery was made with Elahi’s confirmation, as he was present during the search at his house.

However, countering the ACE’s assertions, Elahi insisted that he had been in jail throughout the night and had not been taken anywhere. He stated, “I was asleep, and I have no knowledge of where they supposedly found the money.”

“It was only here in jail that I learned about the alleged recovery,” Elahi conveyed to the court.

Elahi claimed that the raiding officers had ulterior motives, seeking to secure their own positions.

The magistrate then pressed the investigation officer over Elahi’s denial of being taken anywhere. The officer responded, pointing out that such claims were common from suspects. “We indeed transported Elahi to his residence. Otherwise, how did we bring this money?”

After the arguments, the court approved a two-day extension in Elahi’s physical remand and instructed the authorities to ensure the appearance of the PTI leader before the court on Monday.

At maiden IPP show, Tareen reiterates to realize ‘dream of Naya Pakistan’ JAHANIAN

STAFF REPORT

Jail authority submits 10 lawyers list to meet PTI chairman ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

A list of 10 lawyers has been prepared for meeting with former prime minister and PTI chairman.

Superintendent Adiala Jail has submitted the list of 10 lawyers in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) with the consent of the PTI chairman for meeting with him.

“Ten lawyers could meet the Chairman PTI in jail on Tuesday and Thursday,” superintendent jail told the court. The list of lawyers included Hamid Khan, Salman Akram Raja, Latif Khosa, Barrister Ali Zafar, Shoaib Shaheen, Barrister Gowhar, Burhan Muazzim, Sher Afzal Marwat, Salman Safdar and Barrister Umair Niazi.

“PTI lawyers have expressed their satisfaction over the jail administration’s step,” court said.

The high court has issued its written order with regard to a petition of providing facilities in jail. “Jail Superintendent has also said, he will take decision if the family submits request for weekly two days’ meeting in jail,” the court observed.

PTI strongly condemns ruthless Israeli air raids over Gaza ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) strongly condemned the relentless Israeli bombing and endless air raids over besieged Gaza and the world’s powers failure to rein in the devil state despite a resolution overwhelmingly passed by the UN General Assembly urging for immediate ceasefire in the war-ravaged Strip, taking the death toll to 7,326 so far.

PTI spokesperson said that despite clear UN warning of a looming unprecedented avalanche of human suffering inside the Gaza Strip, the continued war crimes committing by the terrorist Israeli state in the war-battered Gaza was a matter of regret and concern for the world especially the UN and OIC. He pointed out that the rogue state alarmingly intensified its airstrikes and was preparing for expansion of its ground operations after total blockade and cutting communications to the Palestinian territory that was reduced into rubble and graveyard.

PTI spokesperson expressed disappointment that the blessing of international powers, especially the US, was a major reason of the terrorist state’s criminal disregard of international law and human values.

He regretted that the vacillation and inaction by the Islamic countries on the brutalities and cruelties unleashed by the Zionist state was becoming the key cause of the world worst tragedy in war-torn Palestine.

PTI spokesperson underlined that the Israel’s insistence on the brutal genocide and massacre of the oppressed Palestinians, despite the UN Secretary General’s appeal and the passage of the most important resolution by the UNGA calling for immediate ceasefire, was a reflection of its criminal mentality.

He demanded that the international community should hold accountable Israeli for its war crimes and genocide of the oppressed and defenseless Palestinians, including women and children.

PTI spokesperson urged that the world powers in the UNSC should uphold the justice rather than sacrificing humanity for petty political interests and make the devil in the Middle East bound by international laws.

He made it clear that it would be a criminal act against mankind to endanger the world order for a barbaric, brutal and terrorist state, which did not care about any legal and human rules of the world.

PTI spokesperson underlined the need that the world powers, especially the US should put their weight behind the cause to find out a perpetual and long-term solution to the decades-old dispute as per the aspirations of the people of Palestine instead of supporting the devil state.

He demanded that the government of Pakistan should intensify and speed up diplomatic efforts in favor of the oppressed Palestinian brothers and against Israeli aggression in the light of the vision and principled stance of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.

PTI spokesperson urged that the government should also exercise all possible options and resources to ensure supply of food and medicine to the people of the besieged Gaza without any further delay to avoid the looming humanitarian catastrophe.

Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) Patron-in-Chief Jahangir Khan Tareen on Saturday reiterated his commitment to realize the ‘dream of a Naya Pakistan,’ during maiden power show of ‘fledgling’ party.

Addressing the maiden power show of Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) in Jehanian, Jahangir Tareen highlighted ideals and ambitions that initially driven the now IPP leaders to join Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

“Ten years ago, we came together to make Pakistan better.

We devised a comprehensive plan for economic improvement as our vision was to bring about change in every sector of the country,” the IPP leader said.

“I and my colleagues had put in relentless effort to bring about change for ten years,” he said.

However, he regretted, these dreams remained unfulfilled.

Without naming PTI chief

Imran Khan, Tareen said when came into power, the original team was gradually replaced “one by one”, and individuals who were unaware of their vision took the reins.

“Our dream of Naya Pakistan remained unrealised,” he said, raising concerns that PTI had fallen into the hands of individuals who lacked a genuine concern for Pakistan and its well-being.

Jahangir Tareen further said that they once again came together – forming IPP – to complete the unfinished mission they had set out on a decade ago.

The IPP patron-in-chief maintained that they were not defeated and their goal remained to transform Pakistan into a better state, He stressed that at this point, the focus should be on the people and the country, rather than personalities.

He also expressed concern over the emigration of young people in search of a better future, vowing to provide employment opportunities and ensure a

brighter outlook for the youth, making Pakistan an attractive place to stay.

ALEEM KHAN’S SPEECH: Earlier, IPP President Abdul Aleem Khan addressed the maiden power show and vowed a poor-friendly manifesto for the people of Pakistan.

“If the IPP comes into power, it will provide up to 300 units of free electricity. Those who are having their bikes will be given petrol at half the original price,” Aleem Khan announced.

The party’s president claimed that the labourers’ wage will be fixed at Rs 50,000. Meanwhile, he vowed to provide free electricity to the farmers for up to 12.5 acres.

He also expressed the party’s desire to develop Islamabad-like hospitals in the backward areas of South Punjab.

Earlier on June 8, a seasoned politician and former PTI leader Jahangir Tareen officially launched the “Istehkam-e-Pakistan” party.

Scores of JI leaders arrested for staging protest outside US embassy ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Scores of leaders and members of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) were arrested on Saturday for planning to stage a protest demonstration outside the United States embassy here in the federal capital for Sunday, demonstrating their support for the people of Palestine.

The Islamabad administration took the action against the party due to their refusal to relocate their planned protest away from the vicinity of the US embassy.

The protest was organised to express solidarity with the people of Gaza.

JI chief Sirajul Haq had announced the “Gaza March” to be conducted in front of the US embassy tomorrow. However, the administration denied permission for the protest demonstration near the federal capital’s diplomatic enclave.

In a display of brute force, the Islamabad police

and Frontier Constabulary (FC) confiscated the stage, sound systems, and other equipment from the city’s red zone, effectively preventing the preparations for the Gaza Solidarity March.

During this operation, leaders and members of Jamaat-e-Islami resisted the authorities, resulting in the arrest of several activists and leaders, including the party’s Islamabad Amir, Nasrullah Randhawa.

A spokesperson for the capital police informed the media that some individuals were detained for their involvement in blocking the Srinagar highway. He clarified that no political organisation would be allowed to disrupt roadways in Islamabad.

The Islamabad Police also resorted to teargas shelling to disperse the JI activists, subsequently reopening the Srinagar Highway for regular traffic.

Additionally, he emphasised that due to the imposition of Section 144 in the capital, no rallies or processions would be permitted within Islamabad’s limits.

STAFF REPORT

At least two soldiers were martyred in the Sarwekai area of South Waziristan when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded, said the InterServices Public Relations on Saturday.

The military’s media wing identified the soldiers as Sepoy Banaras Khan, a resident of Orakzai, and Sepoy Abdul Karim, a resident of Khyber. Soon after the incident, a sanitisation operation was carried out to “eliminate the terrorists present in the area”.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” said the ISPR. In two other incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, an intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted in the Tirah area of Khyber district.

The ISPR said that “after an intense exchange of fire”, one terrorist was killed while two others injured in the skirmish were arrested.

“Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from these terrorists, who remained actively involved in terrorist activities against security forces and target killing of innocent civilians in the area.”

Punjab govt to initiate GRCs to address unresolved complaints LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The Punjab government on Saturday directed all administrative departments to appoint Grievance Redressal Commissioners (GRCs) to ensure efficient redressal of public grievances.

The decision was taken in the 30th meeting held by the provincial caretaker cabinet. The step was to guarantee the implementation of addressing concerns and also to prevent minor issues from escalating to the courts. The newly appointed GRCs will play a crucial role in resolving the grievances of individuals who feel aggrieved due to the actions or inactions of government officers or departments. The directive sets a strict time frame of fifteen days for resolving these grievances, emphasising the government’s commitment to expeditious and effective solutions.

A source told media that the objective behind the move is to make the grievance redressal mechanism more efficient by the Punjab government that enhance transparency. Furthermore, the government has directed all administrative departments to notify their respective officers.

During the meeting, it was decided that GRCs should hold a minimum rank of BS-20 across all administrative departments. The cabinet also proposed specific Terms of Reference (TORs) for GRCs, which include the issuance of computer-generated receipts for all applications and grievance petitions.

Furthermore, the concerned officer or authority will be entrusted to ensure the grievances are resolved within the fixed fifteen-working-day period.

ROLE OF GRCS: The role of GRCs includes eradicating the misuse of legal processes. These commissioners will be responsible for encouraging government employees and others to bring forward genuine concerns before the relevant departments and authorities. Their mandate includes clarifying the nature of grievances, identifying the competent authority for redressal, and evaluating the reasons, and applicable laws for purported dissatisfactions and claims.

CONSTITUTIONAL PETITIONS: The instruction comes in response to a mounting trend of constitutional petitions being filed in the High Court. Government employees have also resorted to filing constitutional petitions to address various issues, including service regularization, promotions, and alleged discriminatory treatment by their competent authorities.

Additionally, there has been an influx of constitutional petitions filed by contractors seeking the recovery of disputed contractual amounts.

Published by Asad Nizami at Plot No 66-C, 1st Floor, 21st Commercial Street, Phase-II (Extension), DHA Karachi and printed at Ibn-e-Hassan Printing Press, Hockey Stadium, Karachi, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 021-35381208-9. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk