Epaper_23-11-10 LHR

Profit KILLERS OF GAZA CHILDREN TREADING PHARAOH’S PATH: PM In partnership with

Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 131 I 8 Pages I Lahore Edition

Friday, 10 November, 2023 I 25 Rabi us Sani, 1445

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URGES EFFORTS FOR HOLDING ISRAEL ACCOUNTABLE FOR LETHAL BOMBING ON PALESTINIANS

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STRESSES ISRAEL SHOULD REALIZE GAZA WAR COULD TRIGGER A SPILLOVER EFFECT BEYOND REGION

Kakar calls for reforms to make ECO more vibrant, efficient ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

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TASHKENT STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Thursday denounced Israel’s bombardment over Gaza and drew a historical comparison, highlighting similarities between Israel’s actions and those of Pharaoh for killing the children.

The prime minister, in his address at the 16th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) here, urged the member countries to rally the efforts to hold Israel to account for its incessant and lethal bombing on the Palestinian people.

In his wide-ranging address, the prime minister raised the issue of Gaza humanitarian crisis twice and reiterated condemnation of killing of children and women, and targeting of the hospitals.

“With the elimination of children, I recall in the history when Pharaoh, on the advent of the Moses’ birth killed children.

And now, unfortunately, the people who claim to be the followers of Moses, are following the path of Pharaoh,” he remarked.

Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ejaz, Caretaker Communications Minister Shahid Ashraf Tarar accompanied the prime minister in the summit held at the Tashkent Convention Center.

He told the ECO leaders that the incessant and lethal Israeli bombardment on Gaza was a deplorable act calling for international condemnation.

The prime minister said the situation needed to be addressed as per the OIC and UNSC resolutions.

He urged the member countries to push for a ceasefire and support the call for the provision of humanitarian aid, besides

Multiple theft, fraud charges against Fawad Ch case come to light LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

In a recent development, a case of theft of fertilizer sacks, cots, and a sofa against former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry has come to light.

According to media reports, an FIR has been registered in Police Station Pind Dadankhan of Jhelum District, alleging that Fawad Chaudhry, along with his associates, forcibly entered the camp of Shahid Asif, the brother of Chaudhry Nauman Asif, on November 30, 2020. They allegedly stole six sacks of urea, six sacks of DAP, beds, and a sofa set before handing over the possession of the house to Juma Khan Baloch.

Separately, Islamabad Session Court has sent former Federal Minister Fawad Chaudhry to jail on judicial remand in connection with a fraud case against him.

During the hearing, Fawad Chaudhry’s wife, Haba Chaudhry, was present in the courtroom, along with his lawyers, Faisal Chaudhry and Ali Bukhari. The former federal minister was presented in the court of Judicial Magistrate Islamabad after a one-day physical remand for the fraud case. Justice rejected Fawad Chaudhry’s request for further physical remand and ordered him to be transferred to Adiala Jail on 14-day judicial remand.

Fawad Chaudhry was arrested from his house on November 4 in connection with a case registered against him at Abpara police station for allegedly receiving a bribe of 50 lakh rupees (approximately $37,500) for securing a government job.

These developments highlight the ongoing legal challenges faced by former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry. The theft and fraud cases against him are still under investigation, and it remains to be seen how these allegations will impact his political career.

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has stressed for making Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) more vibrant and efficient through accelerated reforms to realize its full potential.

Addressing the 16th ECO Summit in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, he said a well-connected region can bring colossal economic and peace dividends for our peoples.

The Prime Minister noted that the corridor based approach adopted by the ECO to maximize potential was a step in the right direction. Such corridors will lead to greater connectivity amongst the member countries and usher in a new era of massive economic growth in the region.

He said the corridor projects will facilitate an enabling environment for the private sector to widen business and investment opportunities. Terming operationalization of Istanbul-Tehran- Islamabad corridor a significant development, he said Pakistan is upgrading its rail and road infrastructure to facilitate trade with the neighbors

rallying efforts to hold Israel to account.

He urged the participating countries and the international community to rally behind to have a humanitarian corridor so that the unfortunate and defenseless people of Palestine could be helped out.

Prime Minister Kakar also apprised

and beyond. He said it is imperative that more border crossing points in the ECO region are notified so that trade operations are facilitated.

Anwaarul Haq Kakar said Afghanistan has a critical role in regional connectivity. Projects such as CASA 100, Trans Afghan railways, TAPI and others are not only merely economic projects, they are also strategic investments in our shared future.

He said Pakistan, therefore, looks forward to working closely with other ECO countries towards the shared goal of building a peaceful, prosperous and interconnected Afghanistan. The Prime Minister pointed out that the ECO trade agreement quota is a landmark preferential trade arrangement. He urged the member countries to sign the quota and thus promote regional trade.

Highlighting the latest development in the investment landscape of Pakistan, he said the government has established a Special Investment Facilitation Council that will serve as single window platform for cooperation in five key sectors including agriculture, defence production, IT, energy and mining.

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the regional leaders of the unabated Indian atrocities in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and emphasised ECO countries to support Kashmiris in achieving their right of self-determination.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

IMF ‘recommends’ additional tax on retail, real estate, and agricultural sectors g

A FIXED TAX MAY BE IMPOSED ON RETAILERS IN CASE OF REVENUE SHORTFALL: SOURCES PROFIT

SHAHZAD PARACHA

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reportedly asked the Federal Board of Revenue to impose additional taxes on the retail, real estate, and agricultural sectors.

Sources informed Profit that technical-level talks between Pakistan and the IMF continued on Thursday.

The IMF has particularly suggested stricter enforcement of real estate tax. In the case of a shortfall in tax revenue, a fixed tax may be imposed on retailers during the ongoing financial year.

The lender has recommended that the tax regulator may exercise its powers to levy tax on retailers after December, sources added.

The IMF was briefed that consultation with provinces is mandatory for imposing taxes on the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, FBR submitted a report to the IMF on potential revenue by the end of the current financial year. The mission team

will respond to the revenue report in two days.

The IMF was also briefed about the Tax Policy and Management Task Force under the purview of the tax regulator.

Sources said that FBR has completed its work on separating tax policy from enforcement. A grade- 21-officer will sit in the Finance division to finalize tax policy related matters.

Sources also said that the IMF has sought an implementation report on Track and Trace. It is pertinent to note that talks with

the IMF started on November 2, 2023 with both sides sharing critical data for fast-tracking the ongoing review.

If the lender is satisfied with Pakistan’s performance during the review, a second tranche of $700 million is expected to be disbursed.

The successful outcome of the review will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the country’s economic stability and its ability to secure continued financial support from the lender of last resort.

Keeping lights off: Undocumented foreigners go underground in Pakistan KARACHI

STAFF REPORT

After living in Pakistan for years, thousands of Afghans have gone into hiding to escape a government order to expel undocumented foreigners because they fear persecution under a Taliban administration in their homeland, rights activists say.

“The gate is locked from the outside… we are locked inside, we can’t come out, we can’t turn on our lights, we can’t even talk loudly,” said a 23-year-old Afghan woman, speaking online from a shelter where she said dozens of others had holed up until earlier this week before moving on to a new hideout.

Local supporters put a lock on the gate so neighbours believe the house is unoccupied, said other inmates.

The woman, who is from the Afghan capital Kabul, said she fears prosecution if she returns to Afghanistan because she converted from Islam to Christianity in 2019 and renunciation of the Islamic faith is a serious offence under the strict Islamic law practised by the Taliban.

She is one of thousands believed by rights activists to be in hiding in Pakistan to avoid deportation under a government push for undocumented migrants to leave the country. That includes over one million Afghans, many of whom the Pakistan government says have been involved in militant attacks and crime. Authorities began rounding up operations across the country after a deadline for voluntary exits expired on Nov. 1.

Sijal Shafiq, 30, a Karachi-based human rights activist who helped vulnerable Afghans find shelter before Pakistan’s new expulsion policy, is one of several petitioners asking the Supreme Court to halt the deportation programme.

“I know several women, girls, who say they would rather die than return under the Taliban,” Shafiq says, adding that they all had professional dreams and ambitions which would be impossible to realise in Afghanistan, where women are forbidden from most jobs and can travel only with a male escort.

There was no immediate comment from a spokesman of the Taliban-run administration on whether those returning would be screened or prosecuted under their laws. Pakistan’s foreign and interior ministries also did not respond to requests for comment about exempting at-risk individuals from deportation.

The Pakistani government has so far brushed off calls from the United Nations, rights groups and Western embassies to reconsider its expulsion plan or to identify and protect Afghans who face the risk of persecution at home.

Western embassies, including the United States, have also provided Pakistani authorities lists of Afghans being processed for possible migration abroad, and asked that they be exempt from expulsion, but the numbers are small compared to the people at risk.

Reuters spoke to a dozen undocumented migrants trying to stay under the radar of the nationwide sweep. Because of their situation, they declined to be identified or asked that their full names not be used. They included a 35year-old father, also a Christian convert, who fled to Pakistan with his nine-year-old daughter.

Another young girl in the shelter said she fears for her life because she belongs to the ethnic Hazara minority, which has for years faced persecution from hardline Sunni extremists in Afghanistan.

“This is worse than prison,” said a 22-year-old Afghan man who said he ensured the lights remained off at night.

Some locals who are helping the Afghans arrange for food and water to be secretly smuggled into the shelter under the cover of night. Afghan singer Wafa, 28, fears her days of refuge in Pakistan, where she moved shortly after the Taliban takeover over two years ago, are coming to an end because her visa has expired.

Speaking from a relative’s home in Islamabad, she said she hoped that she could either get asylum in France or Canada, or make Pakistan her home, as her profession of singing Pashto songs, which she started 11 years ago, is no longer acceptable in Afghanistan, where the Taliban have banned public music performances.

But she is yet to hear back, and applying for a visa extension remains unaffordable for her family. In the meantime, she does not leave the house to avoid widespread snap checks by Pakistani police.

“I am a singer… I know what will happen to me when I’m back,” Wafa said.

Israel to begin four-hour pauses in northern Gaza: White House WASHINGTON AGENCIES

Israel will begin four-hour pauses in northern Gaza starting on Thursday to allow people to flee hostilities, the White House said in what it called a step in the right direction.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said the pauses emerged out of discussions between US and Israeli officials in recent days, including talks US President Joe Biden had with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Israel has informed the United States that there will be no military operations in areas where pauses will take place.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Israel has informed the United States that there will be no military operations in areas where pauses

will take place.

Israel will begin four-hour pauses in northern Gaza starting on Thursday to allow people to flee hostilities, he had announced.

“We’ve been told by the Israelis that there will be no military operations in these areas over the duration of the pause, and that this process is starting Thursday,” Kirby said.

NATO ALLIES BACK HUMANITARIAN PAUSES IN GAZA WAR: STOLTENBERG: NATO allies support humanitarian pauses in the war between Israel and Hamas to allow aid to reach Gaza, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday.

International law must be respected and civilians be protected in the conflict, he told reporters in Berlin as he addressed the media before a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

“The war in Gaza must not turn into a major regional conflict. Iran and Hezbollah

must stay out of this fight,” he added.

Nine Palestinians were killed and at least 15 others were injured by Israeli forces in a raid on Jenin city and refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said on Thursday. Israel’s military said it was conducting counter-terrorism raids in Jenin, but gave no further details.

At least 174 Palestinians had been killed in the West Bank since the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas gunmen from the Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian Health Ministry figures.

UN AID CHIEF: GAZA CONFLICT COULD SPREAD ACROSS REGION LIKE WILDFIRE: The conflict in Gaza is a wildfire that could spread across the region, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths said on Thursday, adding that allowing the situation to continue in Gaza would be a “travesty”.

“The United Nations cannot be part of unilateral proposal to push Palestinians into

so-called safe zones,” he also said, at the start of a humanitarian conference on Gaza in Paris.

Palestinians should govern Gaza once Israel ends its war against Hamas, the United States said on Wednesday, pushing back against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s idea that Israel would be responsible for security indefinitely.

Hamas gunmen from Gaza burst through the border to Israel on Oct 7 and killed 1,400 people, Israel says. Now a month later, Washington has begun discussing with Israeli and Arab leaders a future for the Gaza Strip without Hamas rule.

US SAYS PALESTINIANS SHOULD GOVERN GAZA AFTER WAR: While a plan has yet to emerge, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday outlined in the most comprehensive comments on the issue to date Washington’s red lines and expectations for the besieged coastal territory.

“No reoccupation of Gaza after the con-

flict ends. No attempt to blockade or besiege Gaza. No reduction in the territory of Gaza,” Blinken said at a press conference in Tokyo.

Blinken said there may be a need for “some transition period” at the end of the conflict, but that post-crisis governance in Gaza must include Palestinian voices.

“It must include Palestinian-led governance and Gaza unified with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.”

Israeli officials have since tried to clarify they do not intend to occupy Gaza after the war, but they have yet to articulate how they might ensure security without maintaining a military presence. Israel withdrew its forces from Gaza in 2005.

The Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in parts of the Israelioccupied West Bank, says Gaza, where Hamas has ruled since 2007, is an integral part of what it envisions for a future Palestinian state.

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RANGERS, FC EMPOWERED TO CURB SMUGGLING AT INTER-PROVINCIAL JOINT CHECK-POSTS

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Friday, 10 november, 2023 | LAHORE

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IPJCPS AND JOINT CHECKPOINTS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED TO ENFORCE LAWS AGAINST SMUGGLING AND HOARDING CONCERNING ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES LIKE SUGAR, UREA, WHEAT, AND WHEAT FLOUR PROFIT

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HE Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has granted anti-smuggling powers to Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC) in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to take decisive action against smuggling activities at Inter-Provincial Joint Check-Posts (IPJCPs).

FBR issued SRO No. 1521(1)/2023 to amend SRO 901(1)/2023 which extends enforcement capabilities to paramilitary forces to curb smuggling of essential commodities.

The anti-smuggling power was given to

law enforcement agencies (LEAs) under section 6 of the Customs Act, 199 (IV of 1969) in 2010 and extended each year.

However, these powers were excluded from city municipal limits, customs areas, customs stations, ports, border customs stations, international airports, and bonded warehouses. They were limited to a 50km radius of the international borders.

Now, Customs officials, in collaboration with Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Corps, can exercise anti-smuggling powers at the Inter-Provincial Joint Check-Posts (IPJCPs) and joint checkpoints.

The initiative, effective from November 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, involves a joint effort to curb the smuggling of essential and

sensitive commodities within and outside Pakistan. The Inter-Provincial Joint CheckPosts (IPJCPs) and joint checkpoints have been notified to enforce laws against smuggling and hoarding concerning essential commodities like sugar, urea, wheat, and wheat flour.

Additionally, officers from Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Corps (Balochistan North/South and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa North/South) have been empowered to combat smuggling of essential commodities in bordering districts of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa adjoining Afghanistan.

This includes actions within city municipal limits, as well as at IPJCPs and JCPs designated by the Ministry of Interior.

Message of ‘selfness’ is summary of Iqbal’s philosophy, says grandson KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan’s exports to regional countries surge by 3% in first quarter SBP DATA SHOWS EXPORTS TO AFGHANISTAN, CHINA, BANGLADESH, SRI LANKA, INDIA, NEPAL, AND MALDIVES TOTALED $981.410M

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan’s exports to seven regional countries during the first quarter (JulySeptember) of the ongoing fiscal year 2023-24 witnessed a 3 percent surge when compared to the same period last year.

According to data shared by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), exports to Afghanistan, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, and the Maldives totaled $981.410 million.

This accounted for 13.98 percent of Pakistan’s overall exports, which amounted to $7,018.956 million from July to September 2023-24. China emerged as the leading destination for Pakistan’s exports, surpassing countries like Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Exports to China showed a significant increase of 26.42 percent reaching $633.374 million in the first three months of the fiscal year, compared to $501.000 million in the corresponding period last year. Exports to Afghanistan also experienced a modest increase, reaching $128.533 million from $127.157 million. In contrast, exports to Bangladesh decreased by 38.28 percent, amounting to $144.506 million from $234.144 million, and exports to Sri Lanka dropped by 17.72 percent to $72.192 million from $87.743. Notably, exports to India witnessed a decline from $0.101 million in the previous year to $0.044 million.

“We are getting closer to Iqbal because what he felt through his poetic thought is still felt by us in our individual and national life,” Azad said.

He said that Iqbal came into the world before his time and left at a time when he was needed the most.

He said that Iqbal was a great thinker and he faced the opposition on the political, religious and social fronts courageously.

Azad paid his respects to Quaid-eAzam Mohammad Ali Jinnah at his grave, visited the memorial hall of Mazar-eQuaid and also recorded his thoughts in visitor’s diary.

Pakistan participates in CIIE with its largest effort ever SHANGHAI

PROFIT

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An “Inter-University Speech Competition” was organised here on Thursday at Mazare-Quaid to pay homage to the national poet of Pakistan Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal on ‘Iqbal Day’.

Students from 11 universities participated in the speech competition jointly organised by the Mazar-e-Quaid Management Board (QMMB), the National Heritage and the Pakistan Women Foundation for peace.

Azad Aftab Iqbal, the grandson of Dr Iqbal, was the chief guest while Justice (R)

Wajihuddin Ahmed presided over the ceremony held at Audio Visual Hall of QMMB. Addressing the participants, Azad said the Allama was a saint; Iranians call him Iqbal Lahori, people of the West regard him as philosopher of the East while Urdu speaking community calls him as ‘Poet of the East’.

Praising the speeches delivered by the students in connection with Iqbal Day, Azad termed Allama’s philosophy, a vast ocean and said, “The message of ‘Selfness’ (khudi) is summary of his philosophy.” Azad recited some poems of his grandfather and said, “These verses are a beacon for our youth.”

19 Pakistani exhibitors are participating in the ongoing 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) being held from 5th to 10th November in Shanghai, which has made a remarkable mark by showcasing Pakistan’s largest effort ever.

The expo, which has been held annually in Shanghai since 2018, is a major platform for promoting international trade and cooperation, according to a report published by China Economic Net (CEN) on Thursday.

“Pakistan’s active participation in this prestigious event highlights its commitment to strengthening economic ties with China, Pakistan’s second largest export destination, and exploring new avenues of collaboration,” said Hussain Haider, Consul General in Shanghai.

One of the key highlights of Pakistan’s participation in the 6th CIIE is its focus on promoting its diverse range of export products.

From leathers and surgical instruments to agricultural goods and handicrafts, Pakistan has showcased its rich cultural heritage and economic potential.

Pakistan’s pavilions, adorned

with vibrant displays and innovative products, have attracted the attention of exhibitors and visitors alike.

Recognizing the significance of CIIE, the Pakistani Ministry of Commerce has extended its full support to the participating businesses.

Various incentives, including financial subsidies and facilitation services, have been provided to ensure a successful exhibition experience.

This proactive approach by the government was widely appreciated by the Pakistani exhibitors and further enhanced Pakistan’s image as an attractive investment destination.

CIIE is one of the biggest signs of the opening-up of the Chinese economy.

It is encouraging that China’s “dual circulation” development model provides more space for international high-quality imports, Haider said.

Pakistan’s exports to China in September have surged by an impressive 100.5% compared to the corresponding month during the previous financial year, which bodes well.

The CG said the country needs to sustain its exports to China and take advantage of the opening up of

the Chinese economy and the free trade agreement that offers a lot of concessions.

Since the beginning of this year, the two countries have signed protocols on export of boiled beef, dried chillies and dairy products from Pakistan to China, achieved access to fresh cherries from Pakistan to China and reached an agreement on export of animal skins from Pakistan to China.

The Pakistani Ministry of Commerce is assisting more Pakistani companies to meet the import requirements of the General Administration of Customs of China for the aforementioned categories and expanding the export of more quality products such as surgical instruments and sports equipment.

The Consul General also highlighted the importance of trade exhibitions and fairs as platforms for promoting Pakistani products in China.

He urged Pakistani exporters to participate in such events to showcase their products and establish direct contacts with potential Chinese buyers as these interactions provide an opportunity for both sides to explore potential collaborations, joint ventures and partnerships.

KP govt decides to regulate Potassium Chlorate import ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on Thursday decided to regulate the import of Potassium Chlorate, which is used in the manufacture of matchsticks and firecrackers.

The decision was taken at a meeting, presided over by the additional chief secretary and the home department

officials. The meeting was told that custom duty was not paid on the import of the chemical. Besides that, its import was not regulated either as any department can import it without obtaining a no objection certificate (NOC) first, it was informed.

Most of suppliers of the chemical are in China followed by India and the USA. The provincial government also decided to crack down on those involved in the sale of banned firecrackers under

which lists will be prepared of the shopkeepers selling the prohibited items as well those supplying them and stocking them. Similarly, a decision was taken to revisit the rules allowing the import and use of the chemical as well as to organise the mechanism to ascertain how much chemical had been imported and how much it had been consumed.

The meeting was told that there were two license holders or those who dealt in

firecrackers in KP; one in Karak and the other in Mohmand. On the occasion, directives were issued to the deputy commissioners of all districts of the province to take steps to stop the movement of Potassium Chlorate and prohibited items.

It was informed that the Federal Ministry of Commerce had been requested to include the chemical in the Import Policy Order 2022 so that its import could be regulated.

Later, he distributed prizes to the winners of the speech competition.

Jahanzaib Ali Khan from Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari was adjudged the best speaker, while Aysha Rafiq from University of Karachi stood second and Romasha from Jinnah University for Women secured third position.

The Resident Engineer, Mazar-eQuaid Management Board and National Heritage and Cultural Division, Aleem and Pakistan Women Sheikh Foundation for Peace Chairperson Nargis Rehmani were also present on the occasion.

Sanam Javed sent on judicial remand in Zaman Park case LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activist Sanam Javed has been sent to jail on a two-day judicial remand as her name was allegedly found linked to the Zaman Park case in Lahore. According to the details, the court after hearing the arguments of both parties, sent PTI activist – Sanam Javed – to jail for two days of judicial custody.

Magistrate Shabbir Ahmed directed the authorities to present Saman Javed – who was arrested for the fifth time after the May 9 incident – before the relevant Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) after the completion of the remand period. It is pertinent to mention here that, PTI activist Sanam Javed was re-arrested shortly after her release from Kot Lakhpat Jail as her name was allegedly found linked to the Zaman Park case in Lahore. The First Information Report (FIR) filed against her alleges her involvement in an attack on a police party.

Punjab CM Mohsin Naqvi inaugurates Sikh Yatra booking portal LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday inaugurated ‘Sikh Yatra’ booking portal which would enable Sikh yatrees to avail online hotel,vehicle,security booking facilities.

According to official sources here, religious tourism program had been started for the first time in the country. He said that Sikh Yatra booking portal would enable to select vehicle for travel purposes,while security services could also be hired through this portal. He further said that tourism police would be introduced to promote religious tourism in Punjab. Parbandhak Committee Member Dr Mimpal Singh thanked CM Mohsin Naqvi for setting up Sikh Yatra booking portal. He said that sikh yatrees came to Pakistan four times in a year adding that they get a lot of love during their stay in Pakistan. Caretaker Punjab Minister for Information and Tourism Amir Mir, Chief Secretary, Pakistan Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Chairman Sardar Ameer Singh and others were also present.

President, PM urge nation to follow Iqbal’s teachings to make country prosperous ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar have paid rich tribute to Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal on his 146th birth anniversary.

In their separate messages, they said Dr. Allama Iqbal was the great benefactor of the Muslims of subcontinent, who envisioned the idea of a separate homeland for them and later his dream was translated into reality.

President Dr. Arif Alvi in his message said Iqbal was a great thinker who imbibed in Muslims the spirit of unity, through his writings and poetry.

He said in order to make Pakistan a prosperous nation, we need to follow Allama Iqbal’s teachings on Islam and his philosophy of “Khudi” that

believes in the promotion of selfrespect and human dignity.

In his message on Iqbal Day, the Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar said Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal awakened the consciousness of the Muslims of the subcontinent about their basic rights which created a spirit of unity among the Muslims.

The Prime Minister said Iqbal’s philosophy of Khudi is a unique transformation for humanity to achieve success in this world and hereafter.

He said Iqbal dreamed of a Pakistan a country of peace, political tolerance and brotherhood.

The Prime Minister urged the youth to play a key role in the service and development of the country with positive and progressive thinking as envisioned

by Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi has said Allama Iqbal’s philosophy and thought is a beacon of light for the humanity.

In his message on the occasion of 146th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, he said the national poet taught the young generation to create their own world instead of depending on others by giving a passionate message of ‘Khudi’.

He said Iqbal made a practical effort to awaken the Muslims from their slumber for their true identity. He said the solution to the multifaceted challenges we face today lies in the universal teachings of Iqbal. The Information Minister said the youth can truly serve Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah by adopting Iqbal’s thought.

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NEW ZEALAND CRUSH SRI LANKA, BECOMES STRONGEST CANDIDATE FOR WORLD CUP SEMIS Friday, 10 november, 2023 | LAHORE

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EW Zealand returned to winning ways at the World Cup following a four-match slump as they defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Thursday and all but secured their place in the semi-finals.

Opening batsmen Devon Conway (45) and Rachin Ravindra (42) got fourth-placed New Zealand’s chase of 172 off to a fast start and Daryl Mitchell (43) took them close before they crossed the finish line in 23.2 overs.

Victory left New Zealand on 10 points

— in pole position to claim the last semifinal spot and join India, South Africa and Australia. Pakistan will now need to beat England by an almost impossible margin to leapfrog New Zealand on net run rate.

Afghanistan, who also had slim hopes of qualifying for the knockouts, find themselves in a similar position as their Asian neighbours before their clash with South Africa.

“Really good performance,” said New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson. “The early wickets and spin was a challenge through those middle overs. The pitch really slowed down later.

“The guys showed some good intent later with the chase, so great performance

overall. We thought there was going to be some weather later but there wasn’t any.

Hard to read such things.”

Earlier, seamer Trent Boult and offspinner Mitchell Santner landed timely blows as Sri Lanka limped to 171 all out after an early blitz by Kusal Perera (51) and a defiant late effort by Maheesh Theekshana (38 not out).

“Nice to get a bit of success at the top. A must-win game, the pleasure is about getting the result,” said man-of-the-match Boult, who went past 600 international wickets.

Barring an unlikely miracle in Pakistan’s last game, New Zealand will take on hosts India in the semi-finals.

“Everyone wants a piece of the strong

home nation,” Boult said. “We’re looking forward to it. It’ll be exciting to face India in the semi-finals. They’re playing phenomenal cricket.”

Williamson’s decision to bowl after winning the toss paid off early, as Boult (3-37) and Tim Southee (1-52) tore through the Sri Lanka top order to leave them in some trouble at 32-3 inside five overs.

Perera, who was dropped on zero by Tom Latham in the second over, punished New Zealand with a 22-ball fifty but lost another partner when Boult trapped Charith Asalanka lbw to turn up the heat on the 1996 champions.

Afit-again Lockie Ferguson (2-35) struck in his second over to dismiss the

special Federal Economic Zone to be established near Fateh Jang ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

In a significant decision to boost industry a Special Federal Economic Zone will be established near Fateh Jang as covering area of 85 square kilometers has already designated in this respect. This ambitious project aims to spur economic growth and development.

The project includes the construction of a modern rail and truck terminal. Additionally, it will be seamlessly connected to the New Islamabad Airport through a 20-kilometer road that branches from the CPEC Motorway. Furthermore, a new Expressway spanning 25 kilometers will connect Gali Jagir on M2 Motorway to the M14 Motorway, creating a direct access route from Lahore Motorway.

The sources have revealed that the selected area for this Special Federal Economic Zone spans over 85 square kilometers, situated in Tehsil Fateh Jang and linked with Islamabad Airport. This vast region will encompass various villages, including Duhok Syedan, Hastal, Majhia, Taj Bara, Souk, Pandefath, Gali Jagir, Nikodar, Makki Dohok, Shahroi Saadullah, Shahroi Bahadur, Shahroi Chirag, Laniwala, Gada, Rai Nika, Ismail, Burj, Pahag, Dohok Mond, Dohok Kiran Wali, Aruriya, Dalhal, and Kot Fateh Khan. This development falls within the Fateh Jang Tehsil, District Attock.

The Federal Special Economic Zone will source its water supply from the Indus River, facilitated by a 54kilometer-long water supply line originating from Khushalgarh near Jund. Moreover, a mini dam will be constructed in Thatti Gujran to meet the water requirements of the zone. he Golra Sharif Fateh Jang Jund railway line, which is only five kilometers from the zone, will be modernized. A railway cargo terminal at Jaafar village will be constructed, connecting to the Havelian dry port.

A new railway line spanning 5 kilometers will be

He also touched upon the issues of intolerance, violence and xenophobia and called upon the ECO members and international community to work for building legal deterrence against Islamophobia while maintaining mutual respect, and harmony and co-existence.

The prime minister is on a two-day visit of Uzbekistan mainly to attend the summit, besides engaging with the leaders of different countries to discuss mutual cooperation.

Trans-regional spillover of Gaza war: On the other hand, Prime Minister

established from Jaafar village to the zone, significantly enhancing transportation capabilities.

This development is expected to create numerous employment opportunities for local residents, bringing prosperity and economic growth to the region. The zone’s strategic location and enhanced connectivity are poised to drive commerce and trade efficiently.

The Federal Special Economic Zone will play a crucial role in international trade. It is located 1,730 kilometers from Gwadar, with a travel time of 22.5 hours. The zone is also just 1,200 kilometers away from Kashgar, making it accessible within 24 hours.

The Board of Investment will serve as the

Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Thursday called for enhanced engagement with the Western capitals to make Israel realize that the Gaza war could trigger a spillover effect beyond the region.

In an interview with Arab News, the prime minister said Western capitals, particularly Washington and London needed to make realise the Israeli side that they were contributing to destabilise the region.

He called for an immediate cessation of violence and labeled Israel’s assault on Gaza genocide, clearly. The prime minister said he would attend an extraordinary session of the Organization of Islamic

DGPC warns action against SEPL for supplying gas to unlicensed Konnect Gas CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE

The OGDCL, in its response to the queries of Profit, also admitted that OGRA vide letter dated August 18, 2023 issued instruction to all E&P Companies regarding supply of Flare Gas only to the OGRA’s Licensed Companies. In this regard, all E&P Companies had replied through PPEPCA to OGRA with copy to DGPC that supplying Flare Gas to the buyers as per Utilization of Flare Gas (FG) Guidelines 2016, “we understand that there is no restriction on the E&P Companies for sale of flare gas to a 3rd party except to ensure that the applicable HSE Rules, Policies and Industry Standard Practices are fully complied with”, said OGDCL, adding, that the objectives of the FG Policy 2016 were to discourage the flaring of gas and to incentivize the existing arrangements by encouraging the E&P Companies to avoid wastage and utilize every molecule of flare gas which were issued in pursuance to the provisions of PCA 9Petroleum Concession Agreement) duly signed by the E&P Companies with the President of Pakistan. “In view thereof, supply of gas by SEPL to M/s Konnect is not illegal under the provisions of FG Policy 2016,” said OGDCL. It is pertinent to mention here that caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar had earlier taken notice on the complaint of Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) regarding unauthorized third-party gas sale by Konnect Gas (Private) Limited to the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations since 2020. And, the Prime Minister’s Office on 16-10-2023 had directed the Petroleum Division to furnish comments regarding TIP complaint at the earliest.

Pakistan releases 80 Indian fishermen KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan has released 80 Indian fishermen imprisoned in Karachi’s Malir Jail as a gesture of goodwill.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the fishermen were taken to Cantt Station, Karachi, under tight security, where they will be sent to Lahore. All the travel expenses of the Indian fishermen are borne by the Edhi Foundation. Saad Edhi, the son of Faisal Edhi, the head of Edhi Foundation, has told the media that the Edhi Foundation has given money, clothes and necessary equipment to the Indian fishermen.

Regarding the release, the Indian fishermen said that they were very happy as they were returning to their country after many years and missing their families and children. The Indian fishermen said that they were treated well in Pakistan.

Kakar calls for reforms to make ECO more vibrant, efficient supervisory authority for the Federal Special Economic Zone. The Government of Punjab is collaborating closely with the federal government on this project, and the implementation of Section Four is underway.

Sources indicate that the entire area may eventually be incorporated into the federal capital, receiving the status of Islamabad district. Furthermore, two additional Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will be established in the province, along with one in the federation, all under the purview of CPEC and featuring substantial investments from China. This visionary project ushers in a new era of growth and development for the region, with the potential to redefine the economic landscape.

Killers of Gaza children treading Pharaoh’s path: PM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

aggressive Perera as Sri Lanka collapsed to 70-5 and eventually folded in the 47th over for a modest total after Santner (2-22) and Ravindra (2-21) joined the party.

Santner curtailed Sri Lanka during a crucial phase of the innings and removed Angelo Mathews (16) and Dhananjaya de Silva (19) before Theekshana and Dilshan Madushanka (19) frustrated New Zealand with a 10th-wicket stand of 43.

“In the first 10 overs, we lost three-four wickets and struggled with the bat,” said Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis, after his side dropped to ninth.

“If we had a good partnership in the middle overs, we could have had 300-plus on this wicket.”

Cooperation on Sunday in Riyadh to discuss Israel’s attacks on Palestine.

PM Kakar said Israel could not just kill children and say that it had got the right to defend itself. The prime minister said it was the licence to barbaric retaliation. He said the entire Muslim nation should think over about its contribution in science and technology and defence. The prime minister also criticised governance structures in Muslim nations, saying their challenges were deeper than the mere quagmire of the Palestinian situation.

Meanwhile, the 16th Summit of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)

was in progress in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar was representing Pakistan in the summit. In his address, the Prime Minister will reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to ECO Vision 2025 and to promotion of regional cooperation in the areas of trade, transport, connectivity, energy, tourism and economic growth and productivity.

Kakar will present Pakistan’s vision for the future work of the organization and promotion of regional connectivity and mutual prosperity. The Prime Minister will attend the reception hosted in honor of the leaders of the ECO countries.

Indonesia inaugurates Southeast Asia’s largest floating solar farm CIRATA

Staff RepoRt

Indonesia on Thursday inaugurated a $100 million floating solar farm, the largest in Southeast Asia, as the country seeks more opportunities to transition to green, renewable energy.

The Cirata floating solar farm, which is expected to generate enough electricity to power 50,000 households, is built on a 200-hectare (500-acre) reservoir in West Java, about 130 kilometres (80 miles) from the capital, Jakarta.

“Today is a historical day, because our big dream to build a renewable energy plant on a big scale is finally achieved,” President Joko Widodo said in a speech to mark the occasion.

“We managed to build the largest floating solar farm in Southeast Asia, and the third biggest in the world,” he said. The project, a collaboration between Indonesia’s national electricity company Perusahaan Listrik Negara and the Abu Dhabi-based renewable

energy company Masdar, took three years to complete and cost roughly $100 million.

The solar farm, funded by Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Societe Generale and Standard Chartered, consists of 340,000 panels.

The Indonesian government has said it will attempt to reach net-zero emissions by 2060.

But solar and wind power each account for less than one percent of Indonesia’s power mix, as Southeast Asia’s largest economy still relies heavily on fossil fuels to generate electricity.

The country has pledged to stop building new coalfired power plants, but it has proceeded with the construction of those that were already planned despite an outcry from activists.

Indonesia is also trying to position itself as a key player in the electric vehicle market as the world’s largest producer of nickel — a key component of lithiom-ion batteries — but some industrial parks that host energy-guzzling nickel smelters are powered by coal.

Another Congo fever patient breathes his last in Karachi KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Another patient suffering from Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever, who was shifted to Karachi from Quetta, died at a private hospital on Thursday.

As many as 16 patients have been shifted to Karachi from Quetta during the last few days and two of them including Dr Shakrullah had now died.

The latest victim was 30-year-old Mirwaiz Khan, a resident of Pishin, who was also brought to Karachi from

Quetta in an air ambulance. Two of the remaining Congo fever patients have been discharged from the private hospital in Karachi while 12 remaining are still under treatment. On November 5, Dr Shakrullah from Quetta, infected with Congo virus passed away while he was being shifted to Karachi for treatment.

Balochistan health department’s data on Congo fever showed the last two years have seen a significantly high number of Congo fever infections and mortalities in the province, with 21 deaths recorded last year and 20 mortalities this year so far.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

This body has the mandate to give directions to any government institutions and ensure policy continuation and execution. Denouncing Israeli atrocities in Gaza, the Prime Minister said this issue needs to be addressed in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. He urged the ECO member countries to push for a ceasefire in Gaza, support the call for provision of humanitarian assistance and rally efforts to hold Israel to account. Highlighting the Indian atrocities in illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Anwaarul Haq Kakar said Pakistan continues to rely on its fraternal ECO countries to support the exercise of right to self-determination by the people of Kashmir in the light of relevant UNSC resolutions. Caretaker PM, Azerbaijan’s President discuss bilateral ties Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar held a meeting with President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on Thursday and reviewed the progress in bilateral relations especially in the domain of trade, defence and energy. The Prime Minister welcomed the announcement of direct flight operations of Azerbaijan Airline (AZAL) to Pakistan terming it a positive development in people to-people exchanges and to advance two-way business and tourism.

Anwaarul Haq Kakar and President Aliyev discussed common challenges including Islamophobia and climate change and the critical role of ECO to promote regional cooperation and collective prosperity. Global and regional developments including the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and persistent Indian atrocities in Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJ&K) were also discussed. Prime Minister Kakar reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, especially with respect to Karabagh.

WEF EDISON Alliance celebrates success of AMA Scheme in Pakistan ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

On SPOTLIGHT DAY World Economic Forum's (WEF) EDISON Alliance Celebrates the Success of the Asaan Mobile Account (AMA) Scheme in Pakistan. Organized by the World Economic Forum's EDISON Alliance, in partnership with the Virtual Remittance Gateway (VRG), a SPOTLIGHT DAY on Pakistan’s AMA Scheme took place on November 7, 2023. The event, "Bridging the Financial Inclusion Gap in Pakistan," brought together key figures from prominent government offices and private sector entities, including Fortune 500 companies, to commemorate the triumph of “Financial Inclusion and Women Empowerment” in Pakistan. Regulated by SBP and PTA, the AMA initiative has been developed to provide essential financial services to underserved and unbanked populations. Powered by VRG, this "Banking the Unbanked." Scheme. In collaboration with the WEF’s EDISON Alliance is in alignment with Pakistan's 'National Financial Inclusion Strategy' (NFIS) which champions financial inclusion, women's empowerment, and community upliftment, drive both economic and social progress within Pakistan. Lauding the dedication of the AMA Scheme initiative to promote Digital Financial inclusion in Pakistan. Claude Dyer, Head of WEF’s EDISON Alliance thanked Zarrar Sehgal, Chairman Pathfinder Group and VRG, for their successful collaboration and expressed wholehearted support for future initiatives from Pakistan.

04 COMMENT

Tryst with destiny?

The net draws closer

W

T

The allegations against a former DG ISI merit investigation

HE allegations against former DG ISI Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed are beginning to pile up, to the extent that they are beginning to establish a pattern of abuse of office. Because of this, they merit investigation, so as to avoid any impact on the institution where General Hameed spent his career, raising the exalted rank which allowed the alleged abuses of office. Some of the allegations are to do with alleged abuses that he is alleged to have committed on 2017, using ISI personnel in 2017, to raid the offices of a housing society and the house of its CEO, Moeez Ahmad Khan, who was the petitioner, and who also claimed to have been illegally confined. There is also the allegation by Istehkam Pakistan Party leader Aleem Khan that Gedneral Faiz persecuted him and others around PTI chief Imran Khan because he feared they would oppose his elevation to the office of VOAS. None of the accusations have been proven, but need to be investigated before they are rejected. It is clear that any investigation may lead to General Hameed’s superiors. (It should be noted that General Hameed began to be controversial when Mr Khan’s delay in releasing him as DG ISI in 2021 set off the chain of events that led to his ouster and his imprisonment,) This may be a reason why such investigations have not gone very far in the past.

However, the allegations show someone who has lost control, in charge of an agency which has abandoned the practise of any control by the law.

These allegations have never attached to any previous DG or other officer, though there have been allegations raised of political interference, as in the Asghar Khan case.

The country’s premier spy agency, which is proud to be ranked as among the world’s best, should not have its reputation besmirched by the allegations accruing only to rogue elements who refused to be governed by the law. Only a thorough investigation can rectify this matter, and nothing should be allowed to come in its way, not even the fear of who else might be involved.

At Penpoint M A NiAZi

HEN Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja and his fellow Commissioners called on President Arif Alvi, he probably did not think of it as a visit to the dentist, but that is what it was, the President having been a dentist much longer than he has been President. He had gone to give him the date of the next general election, something he apparently felt as much pain in doing as in having a tooth extracted.

Therefore, on February 8, the country will go to the polls. The date might have come from the President on the recommendation of the ECP, but the reasons why this happened are not to be sought in the love of any institution for democracy and the Constitution, but because of existential compulsions.

The ECP’s first problem was the fact that the date had not been announced. The last time this happened was when President Ziaul Haq in 1988 interpreted the constitutional provision to mean that he had to give a date in 90 days, not hold elections in that time period.

He dissolved the National Assembly on 29 May 1988, and on 20 July, well within the time limit, he set the date for general elections as 16 November. He did not appoint a caretaker PM, and was head of government.

He had planned thus to rule himself for six months.

However, he died on August 17 in that fateful aircrash, leaving his replacement as President, Ghulam Ishaq Khan, to head the government for three months.

It seems that example has not faded, and the ECP has met the challenge of giving a date, any date, within 90 days, even if the date itself is February 8.

The Supreme Court has made the best of a bad deal, and said that the February 8 date must not be violated. The Supreme Court has not got a good record of making the ECP do what it wants, as seen in last year’s Islamabad local body election, which was postponed indefinitely from December 31 after Parliament increased the number of seats from 101 to 125. Then, after the Supreme Court ordered polls to the Punjab Assembly held on May 14. However, the responsible authorities all refused to do what they had been told. The Election Commission was not given the needed money, the extra forces needed for polling duty were not available, and the intelligence agencies all said the security situation made it impossible.

However, the Supreme Court really has no choice but to order that the Constitution be followed. It could not fall in with the wishes of those forces that wish to avoid elections beyond a certain to also had to avoid making an order incapable of implementation. Therefore it had to accept the date that was given it. If it had not done so, the ECP might still have held back on fixing a date, at least until the completion of the delimitation process, which will take place in January.

However, there was another pressure on the ECP, the need to provide the visiting IMF review team the assurance that Pakistan was heading towards political stability. Of course, there are some that feel the formula for stability is like the present: handpicked individuals, and none of the politicians and crooks

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami

(same thing, really) around, with the right type of people exercising the real control. The IMF does not agree. It wants its money back, which means that it not only wants a government which can withstand the public pressure because of the conditionalities it sets, but can create an atmosphere of political stability.

That means not reneging on its promises.

The IMF is not really concerned with the Constitution. It can deal with any government. But it wants its money back, so it wants a government in place that can deliver on its agreements. As Pakistan faces increasing debt servicing charges domestically, and some humongous foreign debt servicing charges this year, the IMF must sign off on this tranche of its Stand-By Agreement, or else the consequences would be disastrous.

Previous COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa has made it very clear, towards the end of his tenure in 2022 that the establishment was out of the business of determining election results. Present incumbent Gen Asim Munir has confirmed this, and this has received the endorsement of formation commanders. However, the speed with which PML(N) Quaid Mian Nawaz Sharif doubled back on his initial demand for action against General Bajwa, Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed, CJPs Mr Justice Nasir Khosa and Mr Justice Saqib Nisar and Mr Justice Ejazul Ahsan of the Supreme Court, by saying that the party looked to the future, not the past.

That might well have let General Faiz in particular off the hook, for the demand for action in the Faizabad dharna case would, if pursued, leave General Faiz, who signed the agreement with the Tehrik Labaik Pakistan as a guarantor, holding the proverbial smoking gun, but is now without PML(N) support.

That indicates that Mian Nawaz has changed an important part of his narrative because he is getting something in return, which is widely predicted to be election victory. In that case, it would become clear that the establishment has not yet gone out of business, The PML(N) will not win so much as the PTI will lose. Even though the main PTI votegetter, Imran Khan, is behind bars, if left without help, PML(N) candidates might face problems against the PTI’s, but the PTI may be a guarantee of a large number of votes per constituency, but there is a presupposition that the candidate will bring with him a substantial number of votes, either personal or biradari.

The PTI model was based on having ‘electables’ as candidates. One advantage was that the party did not have to provide the candidates any funds. Another was that it only had to deliver some votes, not all, the

Indian support for Israeli strikes in Palestine Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi Joint Editor

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Executive Editor

India must make up its mind AsAd Ali

N the sorry state of affairs in Palestine, the once-cherished soil becomes a field of fire and sorrow. Such is the catastrophic dilemma in the ongoing IsraeliPalestinian crisis. The situation in this historically and culturally significant region is a heartbreaking reminder of the human cost of unresolved conflicts and the urgent need for peace and reconciliation.

The Israeli-Palestinian crisis has a long history, dating back to the early 20th century, and it continues to be a source of instability in the Middle East. The conflict has taken countless lives, caused immense suffering and left generations of Palestinians and Israelis scarred by the violence and turmoil. The historical significance of the region cannot be overstated, as it holds great religious and cultural significance for multiple faiths, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

This ongoing crisis has strained the relationships between Israel and its neighbouring countries, contributing to regional tensions and further complicating the pursuit of peace. The suffering of the Palestinian people, who have endured decades of conflict, displacement, and restricted access to basic resources, is a tragedy that cannot be overlooked. The sorrow of families torn apart by violence, and the anguish of children who grow up in an environment of fear and instability, are profound and heart-wrenching.

The sorry state of affairs in Palestine is a stark reminder that the pursuit of peace and justice is a moral imperative that must be prioritized over political interests and ideological divisions. The field of sorrow in Palestine extends beyond physical devastation, as it encompasses the psychological and emotional toll inflicted upon those living in constant fear and uncertainty.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with its densely populated refugee camps and limited access to basic necessities, is a heartbreaking example of the ongoing suffering endured by Palestinians. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has drawn the attention of the international community for decades, leading to numerous peace initiatives, but a sustainable solution remains elusive. The cycle of violence in the region only perpetuates hatred and mistrust, making it more challenging to build bridges toward reconciliation. The deep-seated emotions and grievances on both sides of the conflict have hindered progress and further complicated the peace process. The historical injustices faced by the Palestinian people cannot be ignored, and their quest for self-determination and statehood remains a central issue.

India has been a strong advocate for Pales-

tinian independence. With a moral compass guided by its old relationship with British colonialism, India once empathized with Palestine’s push for sovereignty. India was among the first non-Arab countries to recognize Palestinian independence in 1988. India, under the BJP’s leadership, has recently been somewhat of a juggler on the international stage, balancing its relationships with shrewd caution. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared hugs with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, he also freely extended his hand in friendship to Palestinians.

Yet, as experience teaches us, even the best juggler occasionally drops a ball.

Likewise, the dreadful incident was the Israeli strike on a hospital. Now, where is even a single clearer statement condemning Zionists’ brutal killings of innocents in a hospital? Isn’t it time one raised its voice for the innocent lives lost? India has clearly failed. The suffering of the Palestinian people today saddens all Muslims, particularly Arabs, and any indications that India is supporting Israel could cause diplomatic problems. Some quarters argue that the BJP’s policies towards Muslims and their alleged support for Israeli strikes are a deliberate strategy aimed at demonizing Muslims.

Friday, 10 November, 2023

It is the economic motivation which is driving the PML(N) acceptability. The word out is that the Gulf countries and China both feel more comfortable with Mian Nawaz than with Imran, thus to attract investment from the former, and retain that made by the latter, it would be politic for Mian Nawaz to return to office rest (the bulk) being made up by the candidate himself. A third was that the establishment would help.

That help is not forthcoming. Also, ‘electables’ may be scared off from the PTI from fear of the unknown, which may range from the ire of the local representative of the establishment (which would mean that the local administration turns hostile), to actual arrest, as presaged by the arrests of Fawad Chaudhry and Asad Qaiser.

The alternatives for the electables are the PML(N) and the PPP. Neither has changed, not so much their leaderships, as their support bases. They still want a particular individual to rule, not necessarily solve the problems of the nation, which are economic.

It is the economic motivation which is driving the PML(N) acceptability. The word out is that the Gulf countries and China both feel more comfortable with Mian Nawaz than with Imran, thus to attract investment from the former, and retain that made by the latter, it would be politic for Mian Nawaz to return to office.

There is a risk involved. Mian Nawaz is a politician, and thus might try to do something about those who ousted him. The solution would be to have him return to office, but hampered by allies who can bring him down whenever their strings are pulled.

Nawaz has been where Imran is today. However, the fact that an election has been called should not conceal the fact that the result is predetermined, not by the electorate, but by puppeteers who claim they are not playing the game.

The writer is a member of staff

Editor’s mail

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

E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Cornered by constant international pressure and driven by its burgeoning economic interests, India finds itself at a crossroads, facing a complex and delicate choice. On one hand, India has cultivated a deep and strategic partnership with Israel over the years, marked by collaboration in defense, technology, and innovation. This alliance has yielded significant benefits for India in various domains. On the other hand, India’s relationships with several Arab nations are crucial, not only due to their strategic importance but also as a source of vital energy resources and significant trade partnerships. Balancing these two seemingly divergent interests poses a significant diplomatic challenge for India, as it strives to maintain its strategic autonomy while navigating the complexities of the Middle East.

It is time for Indian authorities to stand with peace instead of facilitating and endorsing war crimes in Palestine. It must condemn the Israeli aggression. The Israeli attack on Ghaza hospital, which killed over 500 Palestinians at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, was extremely sad. The War on Ghaza must end now.

The writer is a freelance columnist

Impacts of plastics on human lives

TODAY’S world is dominated by expediency and modernization, and the use of plastic products has become an integral part of our everyday lives.

Due to their versatility, plastic products have revolutionised numerous industries, from packaging to medical devices. This extensive usage has now become a concern and has unearthed numerous questions regarding its safety. Plastics are non-biodegradable and cause pollution as they stay in the environment for a long period of time.

Many plastic products have bisphenol A (BPA) as a main component, but there are many other lesser-known alternatives for BPA, such as BPS, BPP, and BPZ. The use of BPA in infant bottles and other consumable packaging has been banned by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since July 2012. Now, industrialists associated with the plastic industry have introduced new substitutes for BPA and are selling their products under the tag “BPAfree products.” However, in a recent research study at the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Ms. Saadia Sattar (a Ph.D. Scholar) investigated the impact of plastic products on human health under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Maryam Javed. We found that exposure to bisphenols (plastics) has been linked to hormonal changes that may impact the reproductive systems of both men and women. In women, it could disrupt ovarian function and menstrual cycles, potentially leading to fertility issues. For men, bisphenol exposure has been connected to changes in both the quantity and quality of sperm. In addition to this, the chemicals associated with plastic have also raised alarms about their potential impact on foetal development. Studies on animals have proven that exposure to BPA and its alternatives adversely affects the reproductive organs of the offspring.

The aim of this innovative research is not only to highlight healthrelated issues but also to enable consumers to make informed decisions.

The use of plastics not only poses a threat to the environment but also risks human health. It’s a reminder that our health and the environment can be impacted by our materials and lifestyle choices. This research specifically highlights the adverse effects of bisphenol P, a substitute for bisphenol A, which is currently being rapidly utilised in the synthesis of plastic products.

SAADIA SATTAR LAHORE

Breast cancer awareness

It is time for Indian authorities to stand with peace instead of facilitating and endorsing war crimes in Palestine. It must condemn the Israeli aggression. The Israeli attack on Ghaza hospital, which killed over 500 Palestinians at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, was extremely sad. The War on Ghaza must end now.

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Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

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BREAST cancer typically affects women aged 50 and older. Signs or symptoms of breast cancer may include a mass or lump in the breast, which may feel as small as a pea; a lump or thickening in or near your breast or underarm that persists through your menstrual cycle; a change in breast shape; dimpling of the skin; a marble-like hardened area under your skin; milk rejection; fluid coming from the nipple; a newly inverted nipple; or a red or scaly patch of skin. In those with a distant spread of the disease, there may be bone pain, swollen lymph nodes, shortness of breath, or yellow skin.

Risk factors include being female, obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol, hormone replacement therapy during menopause, ionising radiation, early age at first menstruation, having children late in life or not at all, older age, prior breast cancer, and a family history of breast cancer (Klinefelter syndrome). Diagnostic methods include a tissue biopsy and mammography.

Treatment includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. The specific treatment plan is determined by the stage of cancer, the type of breast cancer, and individual factors. Early detection through regular screenings is crucial for better outcomes. If you or someone you know has concerns about breast cancer, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

So, for the betterment of society and to meet the standards of living, the government should tighten monetary policy to avoid inflation, and the government should also arrange an awareness campaign through television to educate people about breast cancer. I hope my concern will be highlighted, and people will realise the importance of breast cancer.

AIMAN IFTIKHAR KARACHI

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

Terrorism in Pakistan unveils the role of TTP and RAW

Friday, 10 November, 2023

They will not allow peace to the country

P

abdul basit alVi

AKISTAN is currently grappling with an escalating wave of terrorism, marked by several distressing incidents. Notably, Pakistani security forces recently executed an intelligence-driven operation in the general area of Tirah, Khyber District, acting on reports of terrorist presence. During the operation, our troops, under the leadership of Lt Col Muhammad Hassan Haider, effectively engaged the terrorists’ location. As a result, three terrorists were killed, and three others injured. Tragically, four valiant soldiers— Lt Col Hassan Haider, Naik Khushdil Khan, Naik Rafique Khan, and Lance Naik Abdul Qadir— heroically embraced martyrdom. A thorough sanitization operation was conducted to root out any remaining terrorists.

Prior to this, security forces thwarted a terrorist attack on the PAF Training Air Base in Mianwali, eliminating all nine terrorists in the subsequent search and clearance operation. According to the ISPR, the terrorists attempted to target the Mianwali Air Base, but the vigilant forces stationed there neutralized the threat. ISPR affirmed that the joint clearance and combing operation was successfully executed, resulting in the elimination of all nine terrorists. Importantly, the security operation extended to adjacent areas to ensure there were no lingering threats. None of the operational assets of the PAF sustained damage during the attack, with only three nonoperational aircraft suffering minor damage.

Then a tragic attack by terrorists resulted in the martyrdom of 14 soldiers traveling from the Pisni area of Balochistan to Mara. Additionally, there has been a revelation about the origin of the foreign weapons used in the terrorist attack on the PAF Training Airbase in Mianwali. These sources confirm that the discovered

among the terrorists killed in the attack included RPG7, AK-74, M-4, and M-16/A4 firearms.

Terrorism represents a challenge transcending national borders, impacting countries worldwide. Pakistan has grappled with the menace of terrorism for decades, resulting in substantial suffering and significant security concerns. Terrorism in Pakistan can be traced to a complex interplay of social, political, and economic factors.

Pakistan’s strategic geographical location, sharing borders with Afghanistan and India, has made it susceptible to regional tensions and drawn it into conflicts such as the Afghan War, exacerbating security concerns. Economic disparities, limited access to education, and unequal opportunities have contributed to resentment and frustration within marginalized communities, rendering them vulnerable to radicalization.

Radical religious ideologies have found fertile ground in certain areas, giving rise to extremist groups espousing violence and terrorism.

Terrorism has had far-reaching consequences in Pakistan, affecting various facets of society. Countless innocent civilians, security personnel, and government officials have lost their lives in terrorist attacks. Furthermore, terrorism has harmed the economy, discouraging foreign investments, damaging infrastructure, and disrupting trade. The violence has led to the displacement of communities, resulting in a refugee crisis within Pakistan straining already limited resources.

The involvement of India’s RAW and the Tehrik Taliban Pakistan has been substantiated on multiple occasions. India has historically shown reluctance to accept Pakistan and has consistently pursued destabilizing activities. There is evidence of India supporting terrorist groups within Pakistan, with its involvement in various incidents well-documented. The capture of Indian spies has shed light on hostile intentions toward Pakistan.

India’s interference and support for militant groups in Balochistan are well-known. RAW’s involvement in the Johar Town bomb blast has been established.

The TTP is one of the most formidable terrorist entities in Pakistan’s recent history. Since its establishment in 2007, it has executed many attacks. Its genesis goes back to the tumultuous aftermath of the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. In the invasion’s wake, several militant groups, including factions of the Afghan Taliban, sought refuge in the Pakistan’s tribal regions. This convergence led to the TTP’s formation, for the common goal of establishing its version of an Islamic Emirate and enforcing strict Sharia law throughout Pakistan. Initially under the leadership of the enigmatic Baitullah Mehsud, and subsequently led

by Hakimullah Mehsud and Mullah Fazlullah, the TTP held deep-seated grievances against the Pakistani state, perceiving it as a puppet of the USA in the “War on Terror.” Their objectives encompassed toppling the government, eliminating perceived collaborators, and

enforcing their extremist interpretation of Islam through acts of violence and intimidation.

TTP attacks have caused the tragic loss of thousands of innocent civilians, including women and children.

These attacks, whether targeted bombings, suicide bombings, or mass shootings, have caused immense suffering and grief for families and communities across the country. The persistent violence has exacted a substantial toll on Pakistan’s economy, with dwindling foreign investments, a decline in tourism, and disruptions to crucial infrastructure projects due to security concerns.

TTP attacks have compelled many individuals to flee their homes in conflict-ridden areas, leading to internal displacement and placing strain on the already limited resources of the regions hosting them. Moreover, the TTP has been involved in sectarian attacks, exacerbating tensions between different religious groups and undermining social cohesion.

In response to the TTP’s escalating threats, the Pakistani government and security forces have undertaken extensive counter-terrorism operations to dismantle it.

Significant military campaigns, exemplified by operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, have been launched to target TTP strongholds. These operations have resulted in the elimination and capture of numerous TTP leaders and militants. Nonetheless, the TTP has demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting its strategies and regrouping. Pakistan has also intensified its collaboration in intelligence sharing with regional and international partners to disrupt the TTP’s cross-border movement and funding networks. Despite substantial progress in countering the TTP, several challenges persist. The risk of radicalization remains a potent threat, particularly in marginalized communities with limited access to education and economic opportunities.

A few weeks ago, a tragic incident unfolded in the Jamrud area of Khyber district, KP, within the jurisdiction of the Ali Masjid police station. Additional SHO Adnan Afridi lost his life in an explosion, and two other policemen were injured. Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Peshawar, Ashfaq Anwar, provided details of the incident, explaining that a suspicious individual was apprehended at the location before the explosion occurred. This individual was called to undergo a search, but instead of cooperating, he fled toward a mosque.

The Additional SHO pursued the suicide bomber, and in the ensuing confrontation, the attacker detonated the explosive device, resulting in the martyrdom of the Additional SHO. According to the IGP KP, Akhtar Hayat Khan, the explosion transpired within the mosque’s premises. The mosque structure was extensively damaged by the blast. The bomb disposal unit investigated the scene of the suicide blast and determined that it involved the use of 8 to 10 kg of explosives. Additionally, pieces of the suicide vest and ball bearings were recovered from the blast site.

Furthermore, the TTP was responsible for the martyrdom of another mosque a few weeks prior. The TTP’s actions in attacking mosques and desecrating the Holy Quran showcase their flagrant hypocrisy. These self-proclaimed religious terrorists, operating under the guise of Islam and Sharia, represent the genuine adversaries of our country, nation, and religion.

Militant operations conducted across various regions, with a particular focus on the former FATA and the rest of KP, have delivered significant blows to terrorist strongholds. In parallel, the government has implemented measures to fortify legislation, intensify intelligence sharing, and enhance international collaboration against terrorism. The National Action Plan (NAP), implemented in 2014, was designed to augment counter-terrorism efforts by addressing issues like hate speech and the curbing of terrorist financing. While progress has been made, there is an ongoing need for sustained and comprehensive endeavours to completely eradicate terrorism. The challenge of terrorism in Pakistan is multifaceted, necessitating a holistic approach that delves into its historical origins, socio-economic drivers, and ideological foundations.

The fight against terrorism calls for not only military might but also substantial investments in education, poverty alleviation, and institution-building to foster a resilient society less susceptible to extremist influences.

International cooperation plays an equally vital role, as terrorism transcends national borders. The chapter of support and patronage of militant groups from India and Afghanistan needs to be permanently closed.

Pakistan has been actively engaged in counter-terrorism initiatives, both independently and as part of international coalitions. The Pakistani armed forces have carried out multiple operations targeting militant strongholds in various regions, with a particular emphasis on the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan. Enhanced intelligence sharing and improved law enforcement capabilities have led to the apprehension and elimination of key terrorist figures.

The government has initiated efforts to reform religious seminaries (madrasas) to mitigate the risk of radicalization. Pakistan collaborates with global partners, such as the USA, in the fight against terrorism. It has also sought the support of international organizations, including the UN, to address this pressing issue.

Pakistan has generously hosted Afghan refugees for an extended period, and the current initiatives to deport illegal foreigners represent a step toward addressing long-term concerns related to poverty reduction and terrorism eradication within the country. The entire nation calls for resolute actions against both state and non-state actors involved in terrorism.

Douse the fires without Why do descendants of Jews humiliated by Nazis now enraging farmers Govt must facilitate transformation of stubble into an additional source of farm income

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TRIBUNE tk arun

ENIOR officials of the government are certainly very different from quantum particles. Yet, both have a common quality: their state changes when they are observed — the very act of observation induces the change.

Now that the Supreme Court has ordered the authorities of north Indian states to put an end to stubble burning, leaving it to them to figure out how, we can expect to see some action. Here are a few suggestions as to how to act on the court directive without creating a conflict with farmers, who need to clear their fields of the crop residue in order to plant the next crop.

Four South Asian cities — Lahore, Delhi, Mumbai and Dhaka — figure among the five most polluted cities of the world.

The practice of burning the stubble that remains in the fields after the sheaves of grain have been cut off from the plant, an agricultural practice on either side of the India-Pakistan border, is an oft-reviled culprit. In reality, it accounts for a maximum of 40 per cent of the concentration of fine soot in the air.

A weather formation that depresses wind speeds to a near standstill and forestalls a downpour keeps the pollutant suspended in the air for long periods, degrading the quality of air significantly.

The bulk of the pollutants are generated by vehicles and construction dust. It is extremely tough to contain these sources of pollution. Vehicles would have to be powered by electricity, rather than internal combustion engines that consume fossil fuels, to remove vehicular pollution. In the interim, cleaner fuels and better engines would help. The process of cleaning up and replacing polluting vehicles is underway, but it will take time. The dust that vehicles churn out from the road can be reduced by paving all roads, using grass to cover open areas of exposed soil, and planting greenery of the kind that would retain the dust that settles on them, instead of releasing it at the first hint of a breeze. But very little can be done about the dust that is swept in by winds blowing across desert land.

A lot of construction dust can be pre-empted by insisting that cities only use ready-mixed concrete, rather than cement in its native form of fine powder, and that the mixing of concrete be carried out in enclosed spaces, rather than out in the open.

While these are necessary steps and perfectly viable, that still does not mean that burning of crop stubble, as if this were still the 19th century, deserves to continue as a time-honoured tradition of the annadata, the food provider. It should go. But how?

Crop stubble, as also every kind of farm waste, is ideal for biodigestion to release the energy trapped

in it and produce fertilisers. The plant material decomposes into methane, mixed with water vapour, carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, and a slurry, from which solid fertiliser can be extracted, if necessary, but it is a ready-to-use organic fertiliser in itself. Typically, the methane would be stripped clean of other gases before being piped, ready to use.

Building biogas plants and operating them are activities distinct from farming. The farmer needs a motive to take the trouble to pull out the crop stubble and collect it in ready piles that can be bought by biogas plant operators.

One way to get rid of crop stubble is to use a machine called a Happy Seeder, which pulls out the stubble and plants seeds of the next crop at the same time, leaving the stubble to mulch in the field. This has not seen widespread purchase or rental. The window available for planting the next crop is short.

Not enough Happy Seeders are available for all farmers to get to work simultaneously with them within that period.

That leaves the alternative of treating the offending stubble as a raw material for a vibrant new industry producing biogas. Farmers would earn extra income from selling their crop residue, and have access to organic fertilisers at a price comparable to that of synthetic fertilisers.

But the transformation of stubble from an active pollutant to a beneficial stream of additional farm income would not take place on its own. The government would have to act.

Biodigesters can come with different degrees of technological sophistication, mostly depending on the kind of pre-treatment of the different kinds of organic matter used as raw material. An Indian multinational firm has big plans for biogas, and, presumably, would build and supply sophisticated biogas plants. It already operates one based on sugarcane residue in Uttar Pradesh.

If the government comes up with reliable estimates of the amount of crop residue and other farm waste available in each locality, entrepreneurs can plan biodigesters of the appropriate sizes. Building the plants, laying the pipeline network for the gas and deciding how to utilise the gas will take time, even if the process is lubricated with some well-thoughtout lashings of subsidy from the Centre and the state governments.

But the court order is to stop burning stubble now. The temptation would be to use the police to douse the fires. That would only ignite a different kind of fire among the farmers, who are also voters.

The sensible solution is to procure and store crop stubble, with a procurement agency paying the farmer just about enough to cover the cost of pulling out the stubble and creating transportable loads of the stuff.

When the Bhakra-Nangal Dam was being built and farmers protested against the cess levied on them to pay for its construction, political leaders and senior officials toured the land, talking to farmers and explaining the need for the cess. Farmers were transported to the site to see for themselves the modern miracle taking shape in front of them.

The likes of Partap Singh Kairon, then Agriculture Secretary RS Randhawa and then department Director Dr Arjan Singh toured the countryside, urging farmers to grow more food and be the agents of change. There is an opportunity for political and administrative leaders of Punjab today to become agents of change. The question is: can they rise to the occasion?

The writer can at abdulbasitalvi@gmail.com

be

reached

humiliate Palestinians?

Some videos even show Palestinians being compared to dogs. It is paradoxical that European history records the proscription “No entry to dogs and Jews”. We all know how that ended, with Jews in concentration camps and the Holocaust

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MIDDLE EAST MONITOR Faruk Vele

UMILIATION is one of the most powerful human emotions, causing intense feelings of shame in the victim. To humiliate someone means to violate their dignity by disregarding their basic human rights. That’s how the Encyclopaedia of the Holocaust at the Holocaust Museum in Washington describes the public humiliation of Jews in Nazi Europe.

The humiliation inflicted on Jews and their other victims by the Nazis was no accident. It was an intrinsic part of the Nazis’ systematic, racist oppression. Public humiliation under the Nazis had several functions, one of which was to create “critical distance” between them and their victims. This made it easier for the Nazis to perpetrate horrific acts of violence against fellow human beings.

“The Nazis used humiliation tactics not only to debase their victims, but also to reinforce lessons about racial hierarchy for German citizens and populations under Nazi occupation,” explains the encyclopaedia. “Since the humiliation was public, it functioned further as a warning to anyone who transgressed Nazi racial law.”

There are well-known photos of the public humiliation of European Jews, such as cutting off their beards followed by taunts by the Nazi criminals. This held deep religious and cultural meaning for the innocent victims.

This sort of thing was done by German policemen and the Gestapo in ghettos such as the one in Zawiercie, Poland.

How is it possible that almost 85 years after the Kristallnacht — and, incidentally, we must not forget that the Old Bridge in Mostar was demolished on the 55th anniversary of that atrocity — we now see shocking video content created by Israeli Jews mocking the suffering of Palestinians without water, electricity, food and medical aid in Gaza?

They make fun of the Palestinian women, saying that they have no teeth and have moustaches, and so on. It’s worth remembering that Dutch soldiers described a Bosnian woman by writing graffiti on a wall: “No teeth…? A moustache…? Smell like sh*t? Bosnian Girl!” Bosnia’s wellknown visual artist Sejla Kameric helped to engrave this in the world’s memory with her 2003 work “Bosnian Girl”.

Some videos even show Palestinians being compared to dogs. It is paradoxical that European history records the proscription “No entry to dogs and Jews”. We all know how that ended, with Jews in concentration camps and the Holocaust.

Following such abusive content some people wrote on X that the videos were terrifying, perhaps more terrifying than the horrendous reality being seen in real time in the devastated Gaza Strip. That such videos can be made when more than 10,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, more than half of them children and women, beggars belief. Those killed exceed the number of Muslims killed at Srebrenica in 1995, which is rightly called genocide. There is, of course, a desire for revenge against members of Hamas for killing up to 1,600 people in Israel. According to Haaretz, so far the names of 554 civilians and 347 soldiers and members of the security services are known, and that, contrary to earlier reports, no Israeli under the age of 16 was killed. What, though, does this have to do with the 2,823 women, 4,324 chil-

dren, the elderly and other innocent people killed and the 2.3 million innocent others held hostage by Israel in the Gaza ghetto? The makers of those awful videos don’t mock Hamas, they mock all Palestinians.

The lack of empathy for the victims of Israel’s indiscriminate destruction of Gaza and the scale of the crime is shocking on several levels, not least the process of dehumanising the people of occupied Palestine. Award-winning investigative journalist Andrew Mitrovica says that, “Dehumanisation of Palestinians is as central to Israel’s war strategy as the deadly missiles it wields.”

However, this process is not restricted to the Middle East. As the Palestinian-American writer Ra’fat Al-Dajani explains, the dehumanisation of Palestinians works on two principles represented in the western media: “Palestinians are violent because of who they are — because of something intrinsic in their very nature and culture [but not] because of the oppression and violence of the Israeli occupation.” Hence, “Since Palestinians lack basic standards of morality… the only way to interact with them is through the use of force, whether statesponsored force by the Israeli security forces or nonstate actors such as Israeli settlers. Force is the only language they understand.”

Netanyahu’s chilling vow to destroy Gaza and his warning that the two+ million Palestinians living on this small piece of land should “get out” is an inevitable expression of apartheid, which is based on the dehumanisation of an entire people, notes Mitrovica. In contrast to the approach shown in the available video footage, Jews are joining people around the world and raising their voices for peace. Meanwhile, the dehumanising narrative is promoted in Israel in order to create the above-mentioned “critical distance” from the Palestinians. This provides the far-right Israeli regime with tacit approval for the destruction of Gaza, for the sake of conquering the territories and persecution. In short, for the ethnic cleansing of the “undesirable population”. It all sounds horrifically familiar.

Indeed, it is particularly alarming that children are often used in the disgusting videos, which means that the dehumanising narrative is transgenerational.

In the opinion of Sasha Havlicek from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), “The basic tenet of all extremist ideologies is the dehumanisation of others”, because “when you establish an ‘us’ versus ‘them’ mindset you can create incredible divisions and conflicts between people.”

Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian content is flagged as inappropriate or removed from social media. As one Bosnian wrote recently, this speaks volumes about today’s world, which has plunged into darkness.

06 NEWS

Friday, 10 November, 2023 | LAHORE

Blinken in Seoul as FOREIGN MINISTRY URGES RESOLUTION OF US losing sleep over PAYMENT ISSUES WITH CHINESE POWER FIRMS deepening Russia-

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PAKISTAN OWES OVER RS300B TO CHINESE POWER COMPANIES AND ISSUE WAS DISCUSSED DURING PM’S RECENT VISIT TO CHINA PROFIT

Monitoring desk

AKISTAN’S Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has directed the Ministry of Finance and Power Division to address the payment concerns raised by Chinese power companies, considering it a potential obstacle to future energy collaboration between Pakistan and China.

As reported by Business Recorder, this issue, among others, was discussed during the recent visit of caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar to China. During the meetings with the Chinese power companies, the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) expressed reservations to the State Bank

of Pakistan (SBP) regarding power plants, including Chinese Independent Power Producers (IPPs), for not converting their payments from PKR into USD, amounting to $600 million.

This issue poses serious challenges for power producers, with the Government of Pakistan owing over Rs300 billion to Chinese power companies.

During the visit, Minister for Power

Muhammad Ali met with the Vice Administrator for the Chinese National Energy Administration (NEA), raising the payment concerns.

Sources emphasize the urgency of settling dues promptly and streamlining future payment procedures to resolve long-pending issues related to the Revolving Account.

The Power Division has been instructed to clarify Pakistan’s stance on the Chinese proposal for the draft minutes of the next Joint Working Group (JWG) on Energy meeting.

Additionally, the division is urged to solidify Pakistan’s response to the Chinese proposal for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on renewable energy, particularly regarding photovoltaic projects.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has directed the Power Division to provide clarity on the feasibility of the construction of the 300 magawatts Gwadar coalfired power plant.

ECO settlement on commerce facilitation can doubtlessly double mutual commerce: Uzbek president TASHKENT Agencies

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev Thursday proposed to organise an interregional industrial exhibition within the framework of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) and hold its first event in its country in 2024.

“Our vast region, which is home to half a billion people, has a great potential for developing cooperation in trade, economy, industry, investment, innovation and transport,” President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, said in a speech at the ECO summit.

He said it was important to “fully utilise the potential of transcontinental transport corridors that pass through our territories and link us with major markets in the Asia-Pacific region, South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.”

According to him, Uzbekistan has and submitted to the ECO Secretariat a rogram of joint actions to increase the inflow of mutual investments, protect them and deepen industrial cooperation.

He noted that the document is aimed at promoting new joint projects in the chemical, energy, geological, textile, leather and footwear, food, pharmaceutical and construction industries.

Furthermore, Mirziyoyev noted that the importance of harmonising national energy strategies, the development of interregional energy transmission networks, and the widespread introduction of green energy technologies is also increasing.

The Economic Cooperation (ECO) is a regional intergovernmental organisation that brings together Asian and Middle Eastern countries to promote economic cooperation, trade and investment development, and to strengthen political and cultural ties among members.

He famous that primarily based on an in-depth evaluation of the nice alternatives that haven’t but been realised, it’s time to develop an idea doc strategic targets of financial cooperation till 2035, which is able to establish future precedence areas and sectors of ECO actions.

Furthermore, Mirziyoyev added that final 12 months the amount of commerce between the international lo-

BEIJING

The growth rate of internet use among 15 of the 21 less developed countries is higher than that of some developed countries, according to a report released by the Chinese Academy of Cyberspace Studies.

According to the World Internet Development Report 2023, released during the 2023 World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit, this progress is attributed to the stimulation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), especially the Digital Silk Road.

The report also evaluated the development of the internet in 52 countries and regions around the world. It said the top 10 countries with the highest internet development level were the United States, China, Singapore, the Netherlands, South Korea, Finland, Sweden, Japan, Canada and France.

The 2023 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit in Wuzhen, east China’s Zhejiang Province, November 8, 2023. /CFP The three-day summit underway in the water town of Wuzhen in east China’s Zhejiang Province also released another report, the China Internet De-

SEOUL

Agencies

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarked on a visit to Seoul, a visit that holds strategic significance amid heightened military collaboration between North Korea and Russia. Following the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Tokyo and a whirlwind Middle East tour, Blinken’s talks with South Korean counterpart Park Jin are poised to address pressing security concerns, notably the growing Moscow-Pyongyang military ties. This visit marks Blinken’s first to South Korea since President Yoon Suk Yeol assumed office last year. The key focus is on the implications of increased military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, a matter of deep concern for US officials. Following the September summit between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin, there has been a surge in arms transfers, including reports of North Korea supplying 1 million artillery rounds to support Moscow’s involvement in Ukraine, exchanging them for satellite technology know-how. “We’re deeply concerned about what Russia is providing Pyongyang in return for the weapons and munitions that it’s getting,” Blinken remarked in Tokyo. Both Russia and North Korea, facing global sanctions for distinct reasons, navigate ways to overcome restrictions. The historic allies seek avenues to strengthen their ties despite international scrutiny—Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine, and Pyongyang for its nuclear weapons testing. Additionally, North Korea is keen on launching a military spy satellite into orbit, with preparations for another attempt in the final stages. Moscow’s assistance is expected to enhance the likelihood of success, building on their shared interests. The discussions highlight the intricate geopolitical landscape and the imperative for strategic diplomacy to navigate evolving security challenges in the region. The talks are expected to delve into the broader implications of these developments on regional stability and the collaborative efforts needed to address the complex interplay of geopolitical dynamics.

Ukrainian forces hold line in shattered cations of the Economic Cooperation Organisation eastern town of amounted to about $85 billion.

The Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) is Avdiivka a regional intergovernmental group that brings collec-

tively Asian and Middle Eastern international locations to advertise financial cooperation, commerce and funding improvement, and to strengthen political and cultural ties amongst members.

BRI boosts internet development in less developed countries: report stAff correspondent

North Korea ties

velopment Report 2023, which analyzed China’s internet development. It said the scale of the country’s 5G and Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) development and computing power ranked among the

best in the world.

IPv6 is the most recent version of Internet Protocol, which helps identify and pinpoint local endpoint systems on a computer network and route online traffic. China is at the forefront of the world in governing artificial intelligence and has provided the world with Chinese solutions in this aspect, said the report.

The country has released a set of regulations to protect minors in cyberspace, which will come into effect on January 1, 2024.

It has also deepened and expanded exchanges and cooperation in cyberspace globally, the report said.

Wang Yi hails ‘sound momentum’ of Sino-Dutch relations BEIJING

stAff correspondent

The Netherlands is the gateway to China-Europe cooperation, and relations between the two countries have maintained sound momentum, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during phone talks with Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted that bilateral exchanges in various fields have fully restarted after the pandemic, and Dutch exports to China have increased rapidly, demonstrating the huge potential of bilateral cooperation.

China appreciates the Netherlands for pursuing a positive policy toward China and stands ready to work with the Netherlands to give full play to the

advantages of the bilateral comprehensive partnership that stresses openness and pragmatism, thoroughly plan bilateral exchanges at the next stage and further facilitate exchanges between the two peoples, so as to promote the sustained and steady development of bilateral ties, he said.

Wang added that he hopes the Netherlands will adhere to the spirit of independence, freedom and openness, follow international trade rules and uphold the spirit of contract, and join forces with China to promote bilateral cooperation in economy and trade, science and technology, innovation and other fields, and maintain the stability of the global industrial chain and supply chain.

Slot said trade relations between the coutries are strong, and China is the Netherlands’ most important trading partner in Asia.

MOSCOW

Agencies

Russian forces, their numbers swelled by reserves, tightened their vise around the shattered eastern city of Avdiivka, but Ukrainian forces are holding defensive lines, Ukrainian military officials said. The Russian military has focused on eastern Ukraine after failing to advance on Kyiv in the early days of Russia’s February 2022 invasion and their troops have been pounding Avdiivka since mid-October. Online videos show apartment buildings reduced to shells, with 1,500 of its 32,000 pre-war residents remaining.

Anton Kotsukon, spokesperson for the 110th separate mechanised brigade, said Russian forces were massed on three sides of the town. “They are building up reserves. They’ve brought in about 40,000 men here along with ammunition of all calibres,” Kotsukon told national television. “We see no sign of the Russians abandoning plans to encircle Avdiivka.”Russian forces, he said, were “playing cat and mouse”, sending up “huge numbers” of drones while deploying artillery forces to secure a better picture of the town’s defences. General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, head of Ukraine’s southern group of forces, said troops around Avdiivka were “stoutly holding their defences”.Avdiivka has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance.

Friday, 10 November, 2023 | LAHORE

CORPORATE CORNER EIGHTEEN refutes PRA’s allegations of tax evasion

ISLAMABAD: EIGHTEEN is the project of Elite Estates Private Limited (EEPL). Majority shareholding (80%) in EEPL is owned by one of the world’s leading development entrepreneurs, Mr. Naguib Sawiris. Being a project of renowned international real estate developers, EIGHTEEN follows all the applicable laws, rules and regulations. EIGHTEEN is an active and responsible taxpayer and diligently pays all applicable taxes, whether federal, provincial, or local, and is committed to full compliance in term of taxes. In 2019, the Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) approached EIGHTEEN for analysis and scrutiny of its tax documents. At EIGHTEEN , we maintain an open and transparent relationship with the tax authorities and therefore, we fully cooperated with PRA’s audits and inquiries, providing all necessary documentation to support our tax compliance. PRA accordingly gave its clearance to EIGHTEEN’s tax submissions to the PRA until 30 June 2021. Even after that, EIGHTEEN has continued to deposit all taxes, whether to the FBR, the PRA, or other tax authorities. On 7 November 2023, PRA’s officials came to EIGHTEEN’s offices, without any prior notice and on the next day, issued a Show Cause Notice to EIGHTEEN alleging that EIGHTEEN had not paid certain taxes to the PRA. Even though the said Show Cause Notice gave EIGHTEEN until 22 November 2023 to reply to the allegations, the notice was leaked on the same day to various media outlets along with allegations from the PRA that EIGHTEEN is involved in tax evasion. PR

Subsidized electricity tariff should be provided for Karachi-based SMEs: FBATI

i

ISLAMABAD

GHULAM ABBAS

N a groundbreaking development, Pakistan and China have jointly decided to transform the Khunjerab border, their sole land route, into an all-weather passage for trade, marking a significant leap in bilateral relations.

Previously, the Khunjerab Pass closed for four months each year due to harsh weather conditions, from December to April. However, to enhance bilateral trade, the two nations have resolved to keep the route operational even during the challenging winter season, when the mountainous region is mostly snow-covered.

Authorities on both sides of the border have swiftly initiated essential preparations to facilitate this momentous decision.

The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, representing Pakistan’s side, has been entrusted with the task of implementing the necessary arrangements to make the route accessible throughout the year.

Captain (R) Syed Ali Asghar, the Secretary Interior of Gilgit-Baltistan, chaired a high-level meeting where he directed all relevant authorities to ensure complete arrangements for keeping the Khunjerab Border open year-round for

trade and tourism purposes. This decision is anticipated to create a surge of economic opportunities and alleviate challenges faced by local traders.

The meeting, attended by key officials including Commissioner Gilgit Division Kamal Ladak, DIG Special Branch, Commander FWBL, Deputy Commissioner, Additional Collector Customs, Deputy Director FIA, and Deputy Director NHA, emphasized the positive impact of sustaining year-round trade activities at the Khunjerab Border. Secretary Interior underscored the benefits this move would bring to the local economy and traders’ livelihoods.

“Keeping the Khunjerab Border open throughout the year for bilateral trade between China and Pakistan will not only boost economic activities but also lead to positive effects on our economy. Local businesses will benefit, and it will ease the challenges faced by our traders,” Secretary Interior stated.

To ensure the effective implementation of this decision, Secretary Interior issued immediate directives to all relevant authorities, urging them to finalize practical arrangements for maintaining a functional Khunjerab Border and the Sost Dry Port round the clock. This proactive step is expected to create a conducive en-

80,000 illegal immigrants sent back to Afghanistan from Balochistan: Achakzai KARACHI

STAFF REPORT

KARACHI: President Federal B Area Trade and Industry Syed Raza Hussain said the government should provide a subsidized electricity tariff to Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) of the commercial capital Karachi to revive economic activity at an accelerated pace.Speaking in a meeting with a delegation of K-Electric officials, President FBATI said the government should treat the traders of Karachi at par with the rest of the country by facilitating them with the subsidized cost of electric units, mainly to SMEs.He added the government had allocated subsidized quotas for the export-oriented sectors in different cities of the country besides Karachi, depriving businessmen of their right to equal treatment, which cost them severe losses.President FBATI also emphasized that the government should resolve the long-awaited matter of industrialists of Karachi, passing on the benefit of incremental units' consumption of electricity to consumers. PR

ABF, Philip Morris host collaborate to spread word on ‘Breast Cancer Awareness’

American Business Forum and Philip Morris Pakistan Limited hosted an event with a focus on spreading awareness for Breast Cancer recently.

With Pakistanis being 2.5 times more likely to be affected by Breast Cancer than its neighbours such as Iran and India, and it being one of the leading causes of death for women, the two organisations came together to spread awareness of the illness and put to rest surrounding myths and taboos. PR

Balochistan’s Caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai on Thursday said that with 80,000 illegal Afghan immigrants sent back to Afghanistan from Balochistan so far, the process of deportation would be accelerated in coming days. Talking to the media at the Karachi Press Club, Jan Achakzai said the terrorists were using the Afghan soil to target “our security forces and that is why we have decided to send illegal immigrants to their home countries”.

He said all the six terrorists killed in the Zhob last week, were Afghan nationals. With the new government set-up taking charge in Afghanistan two years ago, the incidents of terrorism in Pakistan had increased.

Minister Achakzai said it was the decision of a sovereign state to repatriate all illegal immigrants, 92 percent of them were Afghan nationals, to their home countries.

To a question, he said the provincial government had got

blocked some 100,000 fake Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) in two districts. Action would be taken against the officials found responsible for the issuance of fake CNICs to the illegal immigrants, he added.

Similarly, he said, some 20,000 fake CNICs had reportedly been blocked in Sindh. He thanked the National Database Registration Au-

Pakistan Customs seizes contraband cigarettes worth Rs156M

Pakistan Customs had constituted special teams to lunch anti-smuggling operations against foreign origin cigarettes being smuggled into the country.

Accordingly, Pakistan Customs in its recent drive has seized 8,157,200 sticks of cigarettes valuing Rs.156 Million during the period from 30th October, 2023 to 5th November, 2023.Moreover, instructions have been issued to the anti-smuggling formations, including mobile squads deployed at various Collectorates and airports, to maintain constant vigilance on illicit movement of cigarettes in the country. Pakistan Customs reiterates its unwavering commitment to combat smuggling with utmost prudence and dedication. PR

IIUI 12TH Convocation: Prochancellor confers gold medals, degrees on students

PTBA elects executive committee for 2023-2025

KARACHI: The Pakistan Tax Bar Association (PTBA) is pleased to announce the results of its Annual General Meeting. A new Executive Committee was elected to lead the organization for the term 2023-2025.

The newly elected Office Bearers of PTBA for the term 2023-2025 are as follows:• Anwar Kashif Mumtaz - President• Rehan Siddique - General Secretary• Syed Irfan Haider Shah - Joint Secretary• Imran Ahmad Khan - Information Secretary• Wasim Uddin Hashmi - Treasurer In addition to the above Office Bearers, the PTBA has elected several senior vice presidents from different regions to support the organization in its mission:Senior Vice Presidents:1. Farooq Majeed (Lahore)2. Muhammad Azam (Peshawar)3.

Muhammad Arshad Qureshi (Central Sindh)4.

Muhammad Shahid Saleem (Multan)5. Asif Ali (Balochistan)6. Zahid Attique Chaudhary (Lahore)7. Muhammad Zubair (Karachi)8. Arshad Nawaz Maan (Sialkot) The newly elected Executive Committee is committed to advancing the interests of tax practitioners, promoting tax education, and contributing to the development of tax policy in Pakistan. PR

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Pak-China to transform khunjerab border into all-weather trade route NEWS

ISLAMABAD: H.E. The Pro-Chancellor of International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) and President of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Dr Ahmed Salem Muhammad Al-Ameri conferred gold medals and degrees on female students in the second session of the 12th convocation of university.On the second day 147 gold medals were awarded to the female students by the chief guest. In the 12th convocation of IIUI, as many as 26992 graduates received the degrees that included 12817 male and 14715 female graduates. The University conferred 739 PhD degrees on the male and female students, while a total of 484 students were awarded gold medals in the two-day long mega event.In his speech, Worthy Pro-Chancellor congratulated the new graduates and said by obtaining degrees, they were stepping into their practical lives. He appreciated the initiatives of President IIUI, Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi saying that the university was heading to the right direction in his leadership. PR

thority in helping the Balochistan government tracing the illegal immigrants and blocking their CNICs. He said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) was fully collaborating the provincial in tracing out the whereabouts of the illegal immigrants. Jan Achakzai said operation against terrorists would be continue till the elimination of last one from the country.

PAF pays tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal

Pakistan Air Force has paid homage to the poet of the East on the occasion of Allama Muhammad Iqbal's birthday.

Iqbal's poetry has depth of thought. The creation of Pakistan accredited to his intellectual efforts. By addressing the young generation as Shaheen, Iqbal wanted to inculcate in them self respect, passion for action, wide vision and boldness.The Shaheen, the dervish of the bird kingdom, is self-deprecating, curious in its nature and swooping in its habit. He is the only ruler of vast space who loves the skies and heights. The documentary renews the pledge that every Shaheen of Pakistan Air Force is ever ready to protect the motherland and will not spare any sacrifice if required. PR

Pakistan Navy assumes guard duty at Mausoleum of Allama Muhammad Iqbal

LAHORE: An impressive Change of Guard Ceremony was held at mausoleum of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal as the nation celebrates 146th birth anniversary of Muffakir-e-Pakistan, the man behind ideology of an independent muslim state in sub-continent. A smartly attired contingent of Pakistan Navy took over guard duties from Pakistan Rangers Punjab. Pakistan Navy Station Commander at Lahore, Commodore Sajid Hussain graced the occasion as Chief Guest and paid homage to the National Poet.Paksitan Navy station Commander laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum on behalf of Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Officers, Sailors and Navy Civilians of Pakistan Navy and offered Fateha. The chief guest also recorded his remarks in the visitor book paying rich tribute to great Poet. PR

vironment for trade and tourism, fostering economic growth in the region.

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, during an event at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing last month, had announced the conversion of the Khunjerab Pass into an all-weather border. The pass, situated at an elevation of more than 15,000 feet above sea level, connects Gilgit-Baltistan with China’s Xinjiang region. Prime Minister Kakar expressed the intent to upgrade customs and other logistic services, facilitating seamless trade and movement of people.

He emphasized the importance of deepening trade, connectivity, and cultural ties between Xinjiang and neighbouring regions of Pakistan.

Furthermore, he underscored Xinjiang’s significance as the starting point of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has pledged over $65 billion for road, rail, and other infrastructure developments in Pakistan.

As per the officials this historic decision is set to strengthen the economic collaboration between Pakistan and China, benefiting both nations and the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, and stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Experience unparalleled vlogging with Infinix ZERO 30 4G – Now available to pre-order on Xpark!

LAHORE: Infinix, Pakistan's leading smartphone brand, is now taking pre-orders for ZERO 30 4G – the ultimate vlogging phone that transcends beyond ordinary selfies via 50 MP 30 FPS front vlog camera. Priced at Rs 59,999, Infinix ZERO 30 4G empower young individuals and content creators to capture and share their stories with the world. 2k video recording outcomes effortless and convenient framing along with real-time adjustments while vlogging on the go. Infinix ZERO 30 4G is now available to ore-order online on Xpark and also on outlets nationwide along with exclusive pre-order gifts.A 50MP front vlog camera with 30 FPS (frames per second) empowers users with unparalleled clarity and detail, certifying every video captures the essence of their narrative. The high frame rate guarantees smooth motion, making for professional-grade footage. This front camera capability outcomes effortless self-expression, convenient framing, and real-time adjustments while video recording. The result is a vlogging experience that stands out in quality and engagement, providing content creators with a powerful tool to connect with their audience on the go. PR

pandamart blossoms into full fledged virtual supermarket

LAHORE: At pandamart, we understand and value our customers’ ever-changing expectations. When the world went into lockdown, a few years ago, we rolled up our sleeves and brought everyday essentials right to the customer’s doorstep through pandamart. In a short amount of time since its launch, pandamart saw enormous success and we opened up nearly 44 stores in 6 different cities. With sustainability and innovation at the core of our vision, we believe in profitable growth rather than growth at all costs.Today, pandamart has blossomed into a full-fledged virtual supermarket that customers can order anything from, including everyday groceries, pharmaceutical products, and a complete range of unique products available nowhere else online. Our HACCP-certified systems allow for safe and healthy handling of vegetables and meat, which are completely sold out every day before evening, ensuring completely fresh operations without compromise. Even before the pandemic, foodpanda had been on the lookout for opportunities to further enhance its commitment to corporate social responsibility and eco-friendly approaches to supply chain management. Through pandamart, we have already revolutionised grocery and medicine shopping in a very short time and are becoming a household name in Q-Commerce. PR

Punjab CM announces Business Facilitation Centre to support industry

KARACHI: In a significant development aimed at bolstering the industrial sector and economic stability, Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, announced the establishment of a Business Facilitation Center in the province. The announcement came following a meeting with prominent industry figures, including Patron-inChief of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Caretaker Minister of Industry and Trade, SM Tanveer, and the President of the Pakistan Business Group (PBGO), Faraz-urRehman.The meeting, which took place on Monday, marks a pivotal step in Punjab's commitment to supporting industrialists, fostering small and medium enterprises, and promoting agricultural development and food security. PR

Friday, 10 November, 2023

DGPC WARNS ACTION AGAINST SEPL FOR SUPPLYING GAS TO UNLICENSED KONNECT GAS NEWS

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Authority (OGRA) confirmed KGPL’s unlicensed status through its (OGRA) letters, dated September 9 and October 6, 2023, which explicitly stated that “Konnect Gas Pvt Ltd is not a licensee of OGRA to undertake any regulated activities.” Similarly, SEPL and KGPL has been accused of various violations, including the illegal sale of unprocessed gas, illegal sale of unprocessed gas from expired leases, illegal sale of unprocessed gas as an environmental hazards, and illegal sale of unprocessed gas to end consumers through Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, endangering lives of the people. Furthermore, SEPL has failed to fulfill royalty, area rental, training fund, and social welfare obligations while the company while has also neglected to submit production reports regularly.

It is also learnt from the DGPC letter to CEO of SEPL that despite these serious allegations and OGRA’s confirmation, SEPL’s response, provided on October 20, 2023, was found to be insufficient and unsatisfactory. Consequently, the DGPC, through a letter to the CEO of SEPL, reiterated its instruction to rectify the breach promptly. Failure to comply with the directive would

sued pursuant to Rule-68(a) of the Rules, 1986, do not adequately redress the concerns of the Authority and are deemed as unsatisfactory,” said DGPC letter to CEO of SEPL, a copy of which is available with Pakistan Today/Profit, adding,” Now, therefore, in accordance with the notice served pursuant to Rule-68(a) of the Rules, 1986, to M/s SEPL, the company is once again instructed to remedy the breach. If M/s SEPL fails to satisfy the Authority, the office of DGPC will initiate action against the company in accordance with applicable PCA/Rules.”

The issue came to light following formal complaints submitted by House of Magna Cum Laude (HoMCL) on September 12, 2023, and Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) on October 2, 2023, and confirmation of M/s Konnect Gas Pvt Ltd (KGPL) as an unlicensed entity by OGRA vide its letters dated September 9 and October 6, 2023.

These complaints alleged that M/s KGPL, a subsidiary of Jura Energy Corporation, and an affiliate of M/s Spud Energy Pty Ltd (SEPL), does not have a valid license to undertake any regulated activity and M/s SEPL was illegally selling gas to M/s KGPL, an unlicensed entity. And, the Oil and Gas Regulatory

PROFIT

AHMAD AHMADANI

HE Director General Petroleum Concession (DGPC) has issued a stern warning to Spud Energy Pty Limited (SEPL) over its alleged involvement in the illegal sale of gas to unlicensed company Konnect Gas Pvt Ltd (KGPL).

Shockingly, the country’s largest Exploration and Production (E&P) company, Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), which is listed on all three Stock Exchanges of Pakistan as well as on the London Stock Exchange, while having a joint venture with SEPL in Sara & Suri gas fields has so far maintained silence regarding the illegal sale of gas to an unlicensed entity, KGPL. DGPC in a letter dated 26th October, 2023 to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SEPL said that the response to the accusation regarding illegal sale of natural gas by SEPL as ‘unsatisfactory’ and instructed the company (SEPL) to rectify the breach to avoid legal action in accordance with the applicable rules.

“Whereas, the comments submitted

by M/s SEPL vide its letter dated October 20, 2023, in response to the notice is-

PTI leaders Ali Nawaz Awan, Amir Dogar arrested from Mansehra MANSEHRA

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leaders and former MNAs Ali Nawaz Awan and Amir Dogar have been arrested in Batal area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Mansehra. As per details, the former PTI MNAs were reportedly in residence of local party leader Razaullah Khan who was also arrested along with his cousins.

The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab on Friday arrested Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Qaiser from Islamabad.

According to details, the Anti-Corruption Establishment arrested the former National Assembly (NA) Speaker for his nomination in Swabi’s Gaju Khan Medical College corruption case. Sources told ARY News that Asad Qaiser was being transferred to Bani Gala police station.

The arrest comes as another setback for Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), which is already embroiled in legal battles as its top leadership remains behind bars.

Markets, shops to remain open today as Punjab relaxes smog lockdown LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The Punjab government has announced some changes in its four-day lockdown in eight districts of the province. The Punjab Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department has also issued an amendment notification, in which the provincial government has now allowed markets in the smog-hotspot districts to remain open today (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday).

As per details of the new partial lockdown, markets, shops and shopping malls have been allowed to remain open today and tomorrow in the eight districts of Punjab where smog levels have been found to be the highest and that are potential hotspots for conjunctivitis (eye infection).

However, the shops and markets will remain closed on Saturday and Sunday, the notification said. It said the decision applied to Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Narowal, Hafizabad and Sialkot districts.

Moreover, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, public and private schools, colleges, and universities, and offices will remain closed from Thursday to Sunday on account of Iqbal Day. On Wednesday, the provincial government had declared a smart lockdown to tackle the escalating air pollution levels and an alarming increase in conjunctivitis cases.

A notification issued by the health department raised the red flag, citing the escalating threat of conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye.

The notification read, “The spread of Conjunctivitis/Pink Eye due to bacterial or viral infection, smoke, dust, or chemical exposure is increasing day by day, which poses a serious and imminent threat to public health.”

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LHC CJ proposes litigants access to nearby courts for ‘swift justice’ LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

INP

result in the initiation of legal action against SEPL in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations.

As per DGPC letter, M/s SEPL was required to carry out all operations in accordance with good oil field practices and good oil industry practices and to obtain all necessary licenses /NoCs from relevant authorities, to have minimal impact on the environment, and to have due regard for safety and other factors. However, M/s SEPL is allegedly involved in serious breach of all of the above.

When contacted with OGDCL to secure its stance on the alleged illegal supply of gas to unlicensed KGPL from Sara & Suri gas fields, an official of OGDCL said that Sara Suri Gas Field is a Joint Venture between Spud Energy Pvt. Ltd. (SEPL) and Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) with working interest of 60% and 40% respectively.

OGDCL said the supply of gas arrangements to M/s Konnect Gas (affiliate of SEPL) are covered under a GSPA (gas sales and purchase agreement) signed between the parties for supply of contractual quantity @ 1.3 MMSCFD.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Muhammad Ameer Bhatti has taken a significant step by sending a summary to the caretaker government, seeking issuance of a notification to allow litigants’ access to nearby courts instead of the LHC principal seat. This initiative aims to provide swift and hassle-free justice, particularly for litigants residing in far-flung areas who have long endured the burden of traveling to the LHC principal seat.

Under this new approach, cases originating from districts Mianwali and Bhakar will be taken up at Rawalpindi and Multan benches, respectively. Previously, litigants from these districts had to endure long journeys lasting approximately six to seven hours to

file their cases at the LHC. With this initiative, the travel time to reach the relevant bench is expected to be reduced to a maximum of two hours.

The decision to establish new benches in Rawalpindi and Multan not only promises to save time but also reduce the financial burden on litigants who had to bear significant travel expenses. The administrative committee, presided over by Chief Justice Bhatti, discussed and approved this change, deeming it highly beneficial and granting its final approval.

This move reflects a direct response to the challenges faced by litigants and their demands for easier access to justice. The chief justice’s empathetic response to the litigants’ plight and the subsequent action taken is a positive step towards streamlining the legal process and alleviating the burdens faced by litigants.

Tareen tries to attract voters with ‘Naya Pakistan’ mantra TAXILA

STAFF REPORT

Jahangir Khan Tareen, the patronin-chief of the Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party (IPP), on Thursday vowed that the party would truly bring about ‘Naya Pakistan’.

Tareen made the remarks at the tail-end of his speech while addressing a workers’ convention in Taxila, where former PTI leader and federal minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan formally joined the party.

“What do we want to do? We want to take Pakistan beyond its potential,” he said as he lamented the lack of progress made in the country in the past 75 years.

“Whether we succeed or not, only God knows. But we will work with good intentions and will think of the people first. If we do that, then we will be successful.”

Commenting on Sarwar’s decision to join the party, Tareen said that the relationship between the two was like that between “brothers”.

“When such friends are with us, then the work we need to do to make the country progress, we can do that,” he said.

Concluding his speech, Tareen said, “Together, we will truly make a ‘Naya Pakistan’, God willing!”

During his speech today, Tareen said, “Forgot the past and look forward […] this country has everything. If there is anything lacking, it is that we [political parties] are always fighting with one another.

“Such parties can’t do politics. They have gotten into the habit of fighting with each other

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NEPRA imposes Rs5.2b additional burden with fuel cost adjustment increase g

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CPPA, ON BEHALF OF DISCOS, HAD INITIALLY REQUESTED A 55 PAISA PER UNIT ADDITIONAL FCA PROFIT

NEWS DESK

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has issued a notification regarding an additional fuel cost adjustment (FCA) of 40 paisa per unit for consumers of ex-Wapda distribution companies (Discos), with a net financial impact of Rs 5.2 billion.

This adjustment applies to electricity consumed in September and excludes Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) and Lifeline consumers.

Consumers under ex-Discos will see the fuel charges adjustment reflected in their November bills.

The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA), on behalf of Discos, had initially requested a 55 paisa per unit additional FCA, aiming to raise Rs7 billion for electricity consumed in September.

They argued that consumers had been charged at a reference fuel cost of Rs7.07 per unit, but the actual cost turned out to be Rs7.62 per unit, justifying the additional 55 paisa per unit charge.

It is worth noting that this additional FCA comes despite over 77 percent of power electricity generation originating from cheaper domestic fuels and significant increases in annual base tariffs (26 pc) and quarterly tariff adjustments (18 pc).

In terms of power generation sources, hydropower contributed approximately 37.55 percent to the national grid in September, a slight decrease from August’s 37.6 percent.

However, the absolute hydropower production in September (five billion units) was nearly 17 percent lower than in August (6 billion units). Hydropower does not incur fuel costs. Overall power supply in September was down by 16 percent compared to August, amounting to about 12.9 billion units.

Nuclear power held the second position with a 17 percent share in the national grid for September, up from 12.79 percent in August, contributing almost 2.3 billion units. LNG-based power generation, at about 16 percent, claimed the third position, down from 17.2 percent in August, 19.67 percent in July, and 18.55 percent in June. Local coal-based generation accounted for an 11.08 percent share in September, slightly higher than the 10.3 percent in August, while imported coal-based generation stood at 4.83 percent, up from 4.51 percent in August.

The total share of coal-based power generation amounted to 15.9 percent in September against 14.8 percent in August. In July this year, the cumulative coal-based generation (local and imported) stood at 14.69 percent compared to 17.75 percent in June.

Power supply from domestic gas continued its decline, contributing just a 7.54 percent share to the national grid in September compared to 7.60 percent in August, 7.61 percent in July, 8.54 percent in June, 10.35 percent in May, and 12 percent in April.

Two terrorists killed in Chitral IBO: ISPR RAWALPINDI

STAFF REPORT

[…]. Be competitive all you want but don’t fight. Don’t ruin the country,” he added.

Tareen said that the IPP would try to set new traditions, fulfil its objectives and work for the benefit of the people.

“But insulting one another and wishing ill on each other won’t get us anywhere. Widen your goals as well as your thought process and choose your words cautiously,” he advised.

“God willing, we will achieve what we set out to achieve,” he said, thanking the workers in attendance for their support to the IPP. “We are nothing without your support and hard work, you are our true strength,” he said.

“Our message will be spread all across the country, thanks to the help of you all. Sure, we have television and newspaper, but when people go to one another’s houses to talk to them, that’s how the true message is spread,” he said.

“You are our strength who can take our message further,” he added.

Led by Tareen — who once

used to be a close aide of PTI chief Imran Khan — the IPP was formally launched in June. At the launching ceremony, Tareen was flanked by several other PTI defectors — including those who left in the aftermath of the May 9 incidents and amid a state crackdown on the former ruling party.

As election campaigns kick off ahead of the polls scheduled for February 8, the party last week pledged to ensure a minimum wage of Rs50,000 for workers, offer subsidies to the poor on electricity bills, allocate more funds to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and reduce petrol prices.

“If the party is voted into power, it will collect taxes from the wealthy class and allocate the country’s resources to benefit the poor and needy,” IPP President Aleem Khan said while addressing a public meeting organised by his party’s local chapter in Hafizabad.

He emphasised that providing relief to the ordinary and poor classes of the country would be the top priority of his party.

Two terrorists were killed while four others were injured during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Ursoon area of Chitral district near PakistanAfghanistan border, the military’s media affairs wing said on Wednesday.

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that security forces had conducted an IBO last night during which an “intense exchange of fire” took place with militants.

“Resultantly, two terrorists were sent to hell while four terrorists got seriously injured. Sanitisation of the surrounding areas is being carried out to neutralise any other terrorist found in the area,” the ISPR said.

It added that the locals “appreciated the operation by security forces of Pakistan, who remain determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country”.

A couple of days ago, a Pakistan Army officer and three soldiers were martyred in an IBO in Tirah area of KP’s Khyber district while terrorists had attacked the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) heavily-guarded MM Alam Base over the weekend.

Last week, 17 security personnel were martyred in an ambush, bomb blasts and security operation in Gwadar, Dera Ismail Khan and Lakki Marwat.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities in recent months, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, after the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November last year.

In September, data compiled by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) said the number of militant attacks in August was the highest tally for monthly strikes in almost nine years.

ICCI proposes highest civil award of Pakistan for Indonesian Ambassador ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and Business Community proposed to give the highest civil award of Pakistan to the Ambassador of Indonesia to Pakistan, Adam M. Tugio for extraordinary services in strengthening the bilateral economic, trade, political and diplomatic relations between both the countries.

Addressing the farewell dinner in his honour hosted by the ICCI’s President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawri, the Indonesian Ambassador said Indonesia and Pakistan have huge potential to increase their economy and the role of business communities of both sides was significant in this regard.

He said there are many potential sectors including tourism, trade, technology, energy

and agriculture through which the two countries can expand their relations and by finding new economic sectors for increasing bilateral ties.

He said: “Indonesia and Pakistan are connected by historical religious ties and we have to transfer this legacy to our next generation for which both nations are responsible.”

Ambassador Tugio said that the best memories of his life are associated with Pakistan. This country is extremely hospitable and it is unparalleled in its natural beauty.

The Indonesian envoy said that his experiences as the ambassador to Pakistan were very wonderful. The business community here has a lot of potential, and it is hoped that the leadership of Pakistan’s business community, especially the ICCI will play an unparalleled role in increasing the economic and trade relations between In-

donesia and Pakistan.

He said that there are strong possibilities of Pakistan-Indonesia direct flights being operational and by finalizing it soon, direct air connectivity will be established between the two countries. The Indonesian ambassador said that the free trade agreement between Pakistan and Indonesia will be finalized soon after which mutual trade between the two countries will increase further.

He said that he had done a lot of work to increase the mutual relations and more work was needed to strengthen the relations between the two countries.

The Ambassador said that Indonesia can be a gateway for Pakistan in ASEAN countries. In the same way, Pakistan can develop trade routes for Indonesia in South Asia and Central Asian countries.

ICCI, President Ahsan Bakhtawari said

the role of the business community was very important in increasing trade relations between Indonesia and Pakistan and for this the role of ICCI was significant in this regard.

He said that tourism, IT and textiles are important sectors for strengthening mutual economic and trade relations in both countries.

Ahsan said that mutual trade between Pakistan and Indonesia is 4.5 billion dollars, and needs to be further increased, for which ICCI will play its important role.

The ICCI president said that the trade between ASEAN and Pakistan is currently $11 billion, which is much less than its potential and more work was needed.

He expressed the hope that Indonesian Ambassador Adam Togu will give his best position to improve the image of Pakistan on his return from Pakistan and he will show a better image of Pakistan.

On this occasion, General Secretary of Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Zafar Bakhtari said that direct air flight and free trade agreement between Pakistan and Indonesia are the need of the hour and their implementation is inevitable.

He said that the economic and trade relations between the two countries will increase with direct flight, but also the mutual relations between the two nations will be established.

On this occasion, Additional Secretary, MOFA, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh said that Pakistan and Indonesia can help each other provide trade corridors.

He said that the geo-strategic location of both countries can strengthen the geo-economic benefits of both countries.

Indonesia and Pakistan have strong political ties,which need to be strengthened in the Business to Business side, he added.

Published by Asad Nizami at Qandeel Printing Press, 4 Queens Road, Lahore, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk