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PM KAKAR STRESSES FORGING UNITY UNDER QUAID’S GUIDING PRINCIPLES Monday, 25 December, 2023 I 11 Jamada Al-Sani, 1445
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SAYS ‘UNITY, FAITH, AND DISCIPLINE’ SHOULD BE GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR REALIZING A DEMOCRATIC STATE
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ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has stressed the need for forge unity for the continuity of democracy, peaceful coexistence and rule of law, and the elimination of extremist forces. In a message on the observance of the 147th birthday of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of the nation, on Monday, the prime minister said that on this day, they should reaffirm their commitment to national unity and prosperous and progressive Pakistan. Quaid’s principles of ‘unity, faith and discipline’ should be the guiding principles for all as a nation to realize the democratic state as conceived by their founder,” he emphasized. Extending facilitation to the nation on Quaid’s birthday, the caretaker prime minister said that the entire nation was
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TERMS QUAID’S PERSONALITY IS STILL A BEACON OF GUIDANCE OWING TO HIS UNMATCHED CHARACTER
PM felicitates Christian community on Christmas
celebrating the occasion with zeal, fervor and reverence. He said that they were blessed with a great leader that had led the Muslims of the sub-continent and at last achieved a separate homeland. Quaid-e-Azam had gathered the Muslims under one banner for waging a struggle for the realization of a separate new Muslim state on the global map. Prime Minister Kakar said that the personality of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was still a beacon of guidance owing to his unmatched character and extraordinary leading qualities. His resolve and undeterred will had infused the Muslims with firm determination and courage to face all the ordeals in the continuation of their struggle and in way of achievement of their great goal, Prime Minister Office Media Wing, in a press release, quoted the prime minister as saying. The prime minister further observed that by following the message of unity, faith and discipline, and by rendering huge sacrifices, the Muslims of sub-con-
ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar felicitated the Christian community on the occasion of Christmas and said the nation on this day should pledge to make Pakistan a model of religious tolerance and inter-faith harmony. In a message on the occasion of Christmas, he said, “The Christian community is celebrating Christmas in Pakistan and across the world and I and the whole nation felicitate the Christian brothers and sisters on the happy occasion of Christmas. Christmas is the name of love, brotherhood, patience and sacrifice.” These values were critical in putting a society on the path of development, he added. The PM said the Prophet of Allah, Hazrat Essa (AS) healed the pain of humanity and took the message of God to the whole humanity. Hazrat Essa (AS) reformed humanity with teachings of peace, brotherhood, tolerance and forbearance which led to the success of humans. The moral teachings and the guidance of the Prophet were a beacon for humanity for all times to come, he con-
tinent achieved the collective objective. Quaid’s quality of impeccable character led the Muslims to their destination. Due to his adherence to principles, integrity and strong faith, even his foes also respected him, the prime minister opined. He said Quaid’s life was a reflection of constitutional struggle and political acumen. The caretaker prime minister
Police help centre set up to facilitate release of arrested BYC protesters ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Islamabad police on Sunday said the bail of all detained Baloch protesters — who were taken into custody during a protest for end to enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings — had been approved and they were being released. On the other hand, the caretaker government on Sunday said negotiations were underway with the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, staging a sit-in outside the National Press Club in Islamabad against enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings. “A cabinet committee formed by the prime minister is holding talks with the the Baloch Yakjehti Committee,” Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani said, emphasizing that staging peaceful protests was every Pakistani’s right. According to the details, committee comprising Federal Ministers Murtaza Solangi, Fawad Hasan Fawad, and Jamal Shah held talks with the protestors. POLICE HELP CENTER FOR BALOCH PROTESTORS ESTABLISHED: Following negotiations between protesters from Balochistan and Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar’s formed com-
mittee comprising Federal Ministers Murtaza Solangi, Fawad Hasan Fawad and Jamal Shah, a Police Special Help Center for the release of the arrested persons was established on Sunday. According to the statement, the process of releasing the arrested persons will be according to the law. SSP Abdul Haq Imrani has been appointed as the focal person in this regard and the Police Special Help Center will remain open for two days while the entire process of release of arrested persons will be supervised by DIG Operations and SSP Operations. Meanwhile, the Islamabad Capital Police shared telephone numbers 051-9001534, mobile number 03459600622 and email address assistance.ictp@gmail.com for providing immediate help to the protestors if anyone faces any problem. The development comes two days after the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, organiser of the Baloch long march in Islamabad, gave the authorities a three-day ultimatum to quash cases registered against students and activists and release all protesters. The long march — which started in Turbat on December 6 after the alleged “extra-judicial
killing” of a Baloch youth by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials — had reached the federal capital on Wednesday. The Islamabad police had subsequently used brutal force to disperse and detain the demonstrators with over 200 taken into custody from different areas of the federal capital. The action was strongly condemned by human rights organisations, politicians, the Islamabad High Court (IHC), President Dr Arif Alvi and caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar and analysts. On Thursday evening, the government said 90 per cent of the Baloch men and women taken into custody were released. A day earlier, a judicial magistrate granted bail to 162 participants. The BYC claimed that though the bail was granted, their release was cancelled. In a statement issued today, Islamabad police said the protesters had demanded the release of their detained companions during a meeting with a cabinet committee formed by the prime minister. “Keeping in view the legal requirements, the bail of the arrested protesters has been approved. The detained protesters are being released,” it said.
Imran will neither accept any deal, nor leave country: Jhagra PESHAWAR
MONITORING REPORT
Senior PTI figure and former KP minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra has said that the former premier, despite being mired in innumerable cases and undergoing jail, will neither accept a “deal,” nor will he leave Pakistan for a ‘comfortable life abroad.’ “The Imran Khan I know, as he said, will not accept any deal, or accept to leave Pakistan to make his life more comfortable,” he said during in an exclusive interview with Arab News. “Imran Khan will continue his struggle for the political rights of ordinary Pakistanis and for a fairer and better state till his last day.” Jhagra said the recent actions against their candidates and lawyers only increased his party’s popularity among the masses. “Many people have left the party because of this crackdown, some voluntarily and some literally being forced after being disappeared for days or weeks. Even those who left voluntarily did not leave happily,” he told Arab News. “The government is campaigning for us, every person they put in jail, every lawyer whose paper they tear, every lawyer that they abuse, every time and try to impose their will on the people of Pakistan, they campaign for us.” The fate of politicians in Pakistan has historically
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rested on their relationship with the country’s powerful military, which has directly ruled the South Asian nation on several occasions. Since his ouster, Khan, who rose to power in 2018 with what political analysts say was the support of the military, has maintained the generals had conspired with Washington and his political rivals to end his term. The military, Khan’s opponents and Washington have denied the claims. In the months after his ouster, the ex-premier was able to draw huge crowds at rallies where he publicly touted diplomatic documents as evidence for his claims, waging an unprecedented campaign of defiance against the military. His brief arrest in a graft case on May 9 sparked unrest in the South Asian country that resulted in a crackdown on Khan’s PTI party, which saw several senior PTI figures defect, be arrested or driven underground. Jhagra maintained that Khan was their only leader as he denied reports about the stage being set for PTI vicechairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi to lead the party in the upcoming elections. “Imran Khan is, was and will be the leader of this party and the biggest political leader, certainly in the modern political history of Pakistan,” he said. “Shah Mahmood Qureshi, our vice-chairman, has shown incredible courage in jail and I refuse to believe that he is part of a plan with anyone… to try and take over the party.”
tinued. He said in the present age there was an acute need to follow Hazrat Essa’s message of human compassion, affection, tolerance and fraternity. In the last few years at the international level, human society had been facing an adverse situation due to a wave of religious intolerance, he observed. “To reverse this negative trend we have to spread Hazrat Essa’s message of brotherhood and religious tolerance and follow his teachings to make the world a cradle of peace. In this way we can forever end hatred from the world,” he remarked. He said the white colour in Pakistan’s green flag represented the minorities including the Christian community which played a vital role in the progress and development of the country, and in all fields including defence, judiciary, arts, sports and education made their countrymen proud. The prime minister said the Christian community laid down their lives for strengthening the foundation of the country and for its integrity and solidarity. STAFF REPORT
said that being a nation, it was apt to act upon the principles of Quaid which would be the best way to pay him tribute. On August 11, 1947, in his speech, Quaid had made it clear that every individual would have the complete freedom of practicing faith and religion in Pakistan, he said and underlined the need to reiterate Quaid’s message of interfaith harmony.
Nine of same family dead as roof of house collapsed after fire in Abbottabad ABBOTTABAD
STAFF REPORT
Nine members of a family died when roof of a house collapsed after fire erupted there in Tarhairi village of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Abbottabad district during the wee hours of Sunday. Rescue 1122 Emergency Officer Hafeezur Rehman, who supervised the rescue operation, confirmed the number of casualties, elaborating that the deceased included a woman, her four sons and four daughters. He said the incident took place in the limits of the Mangal police station. According to rescue sources, a fire broke out in the house of Zakir Abbasi reportedly due to a short circuit in Tarhairi area near Abbottabad. As a result, nine members of a family were killed due to the roof collapse and the impact of the fire. “The house, which was made out of wood, caught fire after a short circuit and then collapsed, the official said. He said the bodies were trapped under the rubble for hours before they were retrieved by rescue teams. Rehman added that the head of the family, Zakir Abbasi, was in Karachi when the incident took place. The official further said that it was not possible to identify the bodies and mass graves were prepared for their burial. The villagers rushed to the scene and started rescue efforts and later, a Rescue 1122 team with fire vehicles and three ambulances reached the incident site and conducted the rescue operation. The deceased persons were identified as: Nagina, wife of Zakir, her eight children: Saira, Tayyaba, Hashim, Laiba, Qasim, Hasan, Fatima and Sufyan.
02 NEWS
ALL SET TO CELEBRATE 147TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF QUAID-I-AZAM WITH ZEAL
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LL is set to celebrate the 147th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, founder of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on tomorrow Monday, 25th of December with full zeal and fervor in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Special programs have been arranged by
PTI leaderless party in fresh ECP’s list of registered political parties ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has been mentioned as leaderless political party in fresh list of registered political parties of country released by ECP. Name of PTI founder Imran Khan has been removed by ECP from the party heads as it released the fresh list of 175 registered political parties in Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pervez Khattak-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Parliamentarians has been included in the list. Earlier, PTI lost their electoral symbol ‘bat’ as the ECP announced the reserved verdict on the party’s intra-party elections. The election commission earlier reserved its verdict on pleas challenging the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) intra-party elections after hearing arguments from all the parties. Announcing the reserved verdict, a five-member bench of the Election Commission of Pakistan, headed by Chief Election Commissioner, Sikandar Sultan Raja, declared the PTI’s intra-party elections null and void. Following the ECP verdict, the newly elected PTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan who replaced Imran Khan earlier, will no longer remain as the party’s head.
Monday, 25 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
various social, political, governmental and non-governmental organizations and forums to celebrate the birth day of the founder of Pakistan with great enthusiasm and devotion. “In Mirpur, major ceremony to pay glorious tributes to the Father of the Nation will be held under the auspices of the state-run National Events Organizing Committee with the coordination of various social and political organization to pay rich tributes to the Father of the Nation for his life-time services for the ac-
1,405 nomination papers filed for Karachi’s NA, PA seats KARACHI
ISLAMABAD
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan has categorically stated that fascism is touching a new high in the country to deter and petrify PTI’s candidates but all such brutal tactics would not serve any purpose as PTI would trounce its political opponents conveniently in the next general elections. Strongly reacting to the torturing of PTI ex-MNA Bilal Virk and abducting his brother by Punjab police, PTI Secretary General said that PTI candidates were being brutally tortured, their homes invaded, ransacked and being blatantly threatened that they should not contest. He said that Bilal Virk ex MNA PTI member was brutally tortured by Punjab Police when he went to file his nomination papers while his brother has been abducted. “Punjab Police is not registering any case and has openly told Bilal Virk that they are untouchable,” Omar added. “Is this a ‘Level Playing Field,’ he asked. PTI Secretary General pointed out that PTI candidates were being brutally tortured, their homes invaded, ransacked and being blatantly threatened that they should not contest. However, he reiterated his party resolve that PTI will contest the elections in any circumstances and the party would be victorious with Allah’s will and the support of the people of Pakistan InshahAllah. “We only submit to Allah Almighty’s Will,” he added.
The candidates intending to contest on the national or provincial assembly seats could submit their nomination papers till today (Sunday). Total 1405 nomination papers have been submitted for Karachi’s National and Sindh Assembly seats so far. Intending candidates have filed 1072 nominations for 47 seats of Sindh Assembly from Karachi, while 333 nomination forms submitted for 22 National Assembly seats from the city. Moreover, over 400 nomination papers have been submitted for special seats, reserved for women and minorities, from Sindh. After submission of nomination forms today, election officials will begin scrutiny of candidates’ papers from tomorrow (Monday). The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on appeals of various polit-
M.a. Niazi ERHAPS one of the saddest stories to emerge from Gaza is that of the family of British MP Layla Moran, who along with many others, is trapped inside a church in Gaza. There were quite a few Palestinian Christians displaced and massacred in 1948, the An-Nakba, and the disaster through which Zionists tried to clear Palestine of Palestinians and create Israel. The majority of Palestinians are Muslim, but there are some Christians among them too. It should perhaps not be forgotten that France and Russia showed a great interest in the Middle East since the 19th century, because the Holy Places of Christendom were there. Also, the Holy Places of Judaism and Islam were also there, in the form of the Masjid Aqsa, which is also the site of the Temple of Solomon. However, that led to the Crimean War of the two against the Ottoman Empire.
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Muslim Ummah should stand up for Palestinian cause: Shujauddin Sh Staff RepoRt
ical parties, decided to extend the deadline for filing nomination papers for the upcoming general elections until December 24 (today). As per the Commission’s updated schedule, scrutiny of the nomination papers is slated to begin from Monday through the 30th of this month. Appeals against the acceptance or rejection of nomination papers can be
submitted until the 3rd of January, with decisions expected by the 10th of January. The ECP is set to release the updated list of candidates on the 11th of January, and candidates have to withdraw their papers until 12th of January. The allocation of electoral symbols will take place on the 13th of January, while the polling date has been 8th of February.
Tiktoker Sandal Khattak files nomination papers on women’s reserved seat
my goal,” Sandal said. A transgender Sobia Khan has approached the Peshawar High Court (PHC), highlighting the issue of the non-allocation of seats for transgender individuals in elections. Sobia Khan is running for PK-81. Sobia Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s first transgender radio jockey, runs as an independent candidate, stressing her dedication to advocating for women’s and children’s rights.
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TikTok sensation Sandal Khattak also jumped into politics and submitted nomination papers for reserved seats for women from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Sandal did not reveal her political affiliation with the political party. Tiktoker said she stepped forward into politics to solve problems in her native area. “Empowering women will be
While another transgender Nayab Ali has been contesting NA-47 Islamabad. It is pertinent to note that in the 2018 elections, Maria—transgender candidate—ran independently in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, securing 536 votes and surpassing the vote counts of female candidates. Sobia Khan, advocating for the rights of transgender, has submitted candidacy papers as an independent candidate from constituency PK-81. The petition argued that since transgender have the right to vote, it is imperative that they also have the right to contest elections. She argued the importance of transgender representation in the Assembly, the petition underscores the need for reserved seats for this community, akin to the provisions made for minorities and women. The plea sought to address the current gap in political representation and aims to ensure that the transgender community has a platform to actively participate in the democratic process. As the issue is brought before the Peshawar High Court, it signals a potential milestone in advocating for the political rights and inclusion of transgender in electoral processes.
Muslims all over the world should stand up to support the Palestinian cause. This is our duty as a Muslims to attend the call from Masjid Al Aqsa and help the Palestinian Muslims morally, materially, and in all other possible ways. This was stated by the Ameer of Tanzeem-e-Islami, Shujauddin Shaik, while addressing a seminar held at the Quaid-e-Azam Auditorium, Faisal Masjid, Islamabad. Shujauddin Shaikh warned that the smoke arising from the fire at the Holy Land was fast approaching our doorsteps. If we fail to realize the gravity of the situation, the results might be disastrous not only for the Muslim Ummah but the entire world. The seminar was part of Tanzeem-e-Islami’s 11-day campaign to garner support for the Palestinian cause and express solidarity with our Palestinian brothers and sisters in their hard times who have stood up for the protection of Al Aqsa mosque. Speaking on the occasion, Hamas spokesman Dr. Khalid Qadumi apprised the audiences of the brazen Israeli atrocities in Palestine and the way the brave Palestinians and Hamas has been heroically resisting these brutal activities. In his speech the Markazi Nazim Nashr o Ishaat of Tanzeem e Islami, Ayub Beg Mirza, said that the Israeli bombing has left over 200,000 people dead and hundreds of thousands more injured with over six hundred thousand homeless during the last two and a half months. This was being done by none other than the so-called champions of human rights – the US and its western allies. He called upon the so-called champions of the human rights to put an end to their brutal activities and give peace a chance in the holy land. Senior journalist and anchorperson Hamid Mir said if half a million people can come out on the streets in London and hundreds of thousands of Jews in the US can make their voice heard in the corridors of US power, why can’t the Muslims of Pakistan gather at least a hundred thousand people to register our protest against the unabashed human rights violations in Palestine. The renowned religious scholar, Professor Dr Habiur Rahman Asim, said Pakistan is a big potential threat for Israel. Israel is scared of the Islamic, nuclear Pakistan. This is why efforts are being made to unnecessarily engage Pakistan with Afghanistan and divert its attention from Palestinian issue. Maulana Shabbir Ahmad Kashmiri urged the Muslims around the world with specific mention to the Pakistani Muslims to play their due part in this holy cause. He called upon the Ulema to play their role from the Mehrab of the mosque, Journalists with their pen and the common man with at least boycotting the products of companies that support Israel.
Islamabad Police beef up security for Christmas ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
Islamabad Capital Police (ICP) deployed over 1,500 officers from the Islamabad Capital Police and Pakistan Rangers to enhance security measures around Christian places of worship. According to police sources on Sunday that these efforts aim to ensure a safe environment during the Christmas celebrations. The security teams have established special search and arrest points in proximity to Christian places of worship, reinforcing the effectiveness of security protocols.
Batting without a bat City NoteS
yoke. Similar special ceremonies will also be organized by various social, political and intellectual organizations in all district and tehsil headquarters of Azad Jammu Kashmir to celebrate the day. Speakers, on this occasion, will pay glorious tributes to the great leader and founder of Pakistan besides highlighting his hectic life, ideas and achievements which led to the emergence of separate homeland for the Muslims of the Subcontinent.
ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
Omar Ayub lashes Punjab police for torturing Bilal Virk, abducting his brother Staff RepoRt
jeed Mallick, with cake cutting ceremony to mark the birthday of the great leader who realized the emergence of a separate homeland of the Muslims of the subcontinent under his sole vibrant leadership. The day will dawn with special prayers in mosques for the integrity, solidarity and prosperity of Pakistan and AJK, freedom of all occupied Muslim homelands including occupied Jammu Kashmir from the Indian yoke and bleeding Palestine from Israel’s
complishment of the dream of the emergence of separate homeland of the Muslims of the sub-continent – Pakistan”, sources told APP here on Sunday. “A grand Quaid’s birthday cake cutting ceremony will be held to mark the birth anniversary”, the sources added. Another ceremony to celebrate the birthday of the founder of Pakistani will be hosted by Shoukat Majeed Mallick, Secretary Information (Retd) AJK government and son of (Late) Justice (Retd) Abdul Ma-
Now, it seems, that figleaf is not being used. It seems that all the vaunted missionary fervour of the USA and the West is running out, and they are supporting Israel, even when it attacks churches. Does anyone remember Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice, where Shylock gets it in the neck for conspiring against a Christian? Or is there an element of racism here? I mean, these are not white Christians, but Arabs. And we must remember that Israel was founded by Russian and Ukrainian Jews who had moved to the USA. I presume that’s where they imbibed racism, directed not just against blacks, but also against Arabs. The present Israeli PM is in this mould, being the child of Ukrainian Jews, and though born in Israel, brought up in the USA. He is the first Israeli PM to have been born in Israel, that is, after Independence. Indians don’t have the same racism. After all, Muslims are mostly converts, so while Hindus may be virulently anti-Muslim, their goal is ‘ghar wapsi’ as they now call it. Until then, Muslims are down there with the Dalits. There is no move among Is-
Acting upon the directives of Islamabad Capital City Police Officer, Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan, a meeting was conducted by SSP Operations, Malik Jameel Zafar in Islamabad. During the meeting, officers were instructed to take all necessary measures to bolster the security of Christian places of worship in their respective areas. The directives include the establishment of search points without causing disruptions, conducting thorough searches, maintaining constant communication with event organizers, ensuring punctuality, and implementing reasonable car parking arrangements. Security measures extend to
raelis to reconvert Palestinians. They remain subject to being killed, as in Gaza. The Christians who had been killed in the Gaza church were not killed by a bomb or artillery, where there is an element of inadvertence, but by snipers, which implies a spine-chilling deliberation. Meanwhile, they are petting cows in a former dairy farm in the UK, to alleviate mental problems. It doesn’t’ seem to have been used in Czechia, where a 24-year-old student offed himself after shooting dead 13 others, and injuring 25 others, one of whom died in hospital. It was by far the worst shooting in Czech history, though it was only middling by US standards, where the school or college shooting is almost a tradition. If the British technique was to be used in Pakistan, it would be done by petting buffaloes. If there was a crime anywhere, the patients would be arrested for stealing the buffaloes. However, the 61 intending illegal migrants feared dead off Libya in yet another boat-sinking tragedy would not have been helped by the petting of buffaloes or cows. None of the illegals have been identified as PTI supporters, but that is perhaps the only good news the party has had. Well, its ranks have been swelled by
preventing any harassment in open areas, providing adequate lighting, and addressing any violations related to loudspeakers. In preparation for Christmas, SSP Operations emphasized the deployment of more than 1,500 officers to ensure foolproof security. The Pakistan Rangers are collaborating with the police to further strengthen security measures. Instructions have been issued to all District Police Officers (DPOs) and Officers-in-Charge of Police Stations to deploy armed personnel, civil paratroopers, and women police personnel at every place of worship. Teams from the Intelligence and De-
Latif Khosa, formerly of the PPP, which had made him both attorney-general and Punjab Governor. The PTI had also attracted former Punjab Governor Muhammad Sarwar, and made him Governor again. But he had gone from the PML(N)’s ranks. So maybe the JUI(F) should watch out for KP Governor Haji Ghulam Ali, closely related as he is to the party chief. Meanwhile, the PCB is a victim of the audio clip craze. And instead of some former player (like Imran), the clip released was of the PCB Chairman, Zaka Ashraf,
tection Force (IDF) are assigned to closely monitor individuals exhibiting suspicious behavior. Additional personnel will be deployed in public places, and bomb disposal units will conduct thorough searches in various areas. All concerned agencies have been directed to conduct duty patrols, appoint teams for patrolling in different sectors and rural areas of Islamabad to enhance security. Emphasizing the paramount importance of safety, SSP Operations Islamabad asserted that the primary duty of the police is to safeguard the lives and property of the city’s residents.
discussing the captaincy. And that’s political, because the captaincy is crucial to getting on the same page. Of course, Imran is not the best advertisement for that, not after his party was deprived of its symbol. Still, Imran showed a fine undaunted spirit by saying his party would play on. Sorry, still contest the elections. I wonder what sport of fit the umpires would throw if batsmen turned up without a bat. You could get caught off the glove, and could either be out handled the ball or obstructing the field.
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Monday, 25 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
PAKISTAN RAILWAYS TO EXPAND 96 TRAINS NETWORK TILL DEC 25
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N a bid to accommodate passengers, Pakistan Railways would expand the network of its express trains to 96 till December 25, running all over the country to better facilitate the commuters. “Before completing the network of 96 trains over the entire railway network, the last year the figure of trains is 86 which will be improved after the concentrated efforts of the department,” an official in the
Police help centre set up to facilitate release of arrested BYC protesters CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
Ministry told the state news agency. He said the facilities being provided to the passengers at railway stations include waiting rooms, vending stalls, station restaurants, wheelchairs, an information desk, computer reservation facilities, a public address system to inform the public about the arrival and departure of trains, provision of paramedics and 1st aid facility, online reservation facility, passenger insurance service and revival of help desks at stations facilities in trains. To a question, he said the overall punctuality ratio of trains has improved from 76
Relatives of the detained protesters should contact the police for information so that legal assistance can be provided to them, the police added. In a later post, the police said a special help centre had been established to facilitate the release of the detained persons. It said the centre would be functional for two days and would be supervised by the DIG operations and SSP operations.. Earlier in the day, the caretaker government had said it was holding negotiations with the protesters. Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani had emphasised that staging peaceful protests was every Pakistani’s right. “We have ensured, on the orders of the prime minister, that no protesters are harmed, tortured or harassed in any way, “ he had noted in a statement. At the same time, the interior secretary had also asserted that no one would be allowed to take the law into their own hands. “The implementation of the court order will be ensured,” he had added, referring to the IHC’s directives, in which it had advised the capital police chief to concentrate on controlling street crimes rather than flexing their muscles against protesters. OVER 100 BALOCH STUDENTS ‘MISSING’: Meanwhile, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), the BYC said its movement had entered the 31st day and continued in the form of a sit-in outside the National Press Club (NPC). “Nearly 250 of our students and activists are still in the custody of Islamabad police but our courage and hopes are high and this struggle shall continue,” it added. Mahrang Baloch, one of the long march organisers, said that the status of more than 100 Baloch students was “missing” and they had not been produced before any court. “If the students are not released and first information reports (FIRs) against peaceful protestors are not withdrawn, then the long march will be compelled to take harsh steps and the state will be responsible for this,” she wrote on X. JAN ACHAKZAI SAYS ‘MISSING PERSONS ARE BLA TERRORISTS’: Addressing a press conference in Quetta, Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai said that hundreds of thousands of non-Baloch had been expelled from the province. “Thousands were killed. Every day, from the poor to the highly educated, have been killed in Balochistan,” he said. He asked why no one was talking about this, when people had been killed just on the basis of their identity. He said that the non-Baloch were being killed and asked why there was silence in this regard. “Missing persons are Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) terrorists — they are in the mountains or they are in being taught in India’s training camps,” he said. Achakzai further said that militants were putting women on the forefront to put pressure on the state. He said that the militant groups were at war with the state, one they would never win. “Further, saying that this is a long march by the committee — there is no Baloch committee or Baloch Yakjehti Council,” he said, adding that the people of the province were as patriotic as those in other provinces. “Therefore, [they] cannot represent the Baloch people. A handful of people left from Turbat under an agenda, headed to Islamabad on a long march and tried to manipulate the people through the media,” he said. He said that the provincial government had listened to the protesters and launched an inquiry against the “people they wanted”. “Apart from this, we also suspended people,” he said. “Now, their demands are beyond understanding. Disarming the CTD is equivalent to disarming the state of Pakistan. No state can disarm any of its institutions. If there are 150 incidents of terrorism in Turbat and 66 people are martyred, then no institution can think of accepting the demands of a handful of people for disarming the state,” he said. The minister said the protesters first went to Quetta and then “Baloch dominated areas” where they had planted people. “It does not make sense to go to Kohlu. Then they went to Dera Ismail Khan where people from the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) joined them […] We know their agenda, they will not be successful,” he said.
to 93 per cent in three months owing to close monitoring and stern measures taken by Pakistan Railways at the divisional and ministry levels. “With the punctuality of trains and concrete measures taken by the department in the last three months, the number of passengers has increased by over 20 million, which is ample proof of the department’s achievement,” he added. He said, “Pakistan Railways is also set to introduce the ‘Train Driver Assistant System’ (TDAS) to help train drivers a clear view of the railway tracks up to an impressive distance of 700 meters.”
FIA arrests co-accused in online women harassment case from Rawalpindi ISLAMABAD
“The technology aims to enhance the safety, punctuality and efficiency of train operations during adverse weather conditions, particularly in the presence of dense smog and fog,” he added. The system, he said, “TDAS is set to revolutionize the way trains navigate through foggy landscapes. It promised not only to avert potential accidents but also to facilitate smooth train travel when visibility is severely compromised.”
Things will change with young minds coming in politics: Wahab KARACHI
ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
mulation and decision making process in the government sector, especially at the local government level, then the problems in our society will start to be fixed automatically. Participation in the youth parliament under Ida Rieu will awaken the desire among the youth to participate in central politics and public domain. I will invite the Ida Rieu Inclusive Youth Parliament to the KMC next year, he said, “Unfortunately, young people tendto avoid going to government sector until you work in government sector, how
will you know what is policy making, how decisions are taken, what is politics and what is bureaucracy. After serving the blind and hearing impaired people of the society for more than a century, Ida Rieu Welfare Association has taken the initiative to start a comprehensive Youth Parliament which will be a catalyst for social development and mutual unity and the Youth parliament will help them to unite, overcome barriers, eliminate discrimination and move forward with a common vision for the development of Pakistan.
Political momentum builds for polls as filing of nominations concludes CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE
Candidates from the Mutahidda Qaumi Movement (MQM), Awami National Party (ANP), and Jamiat Ulema Islam (JUI) have also filed their papers in Islamabad. Today, the Election Commission will unveil the list of candidates, marking the commencement of candidate scrutiny from December 25 to December 30. The deadline for filing appeals against the RO’s decisions on accepting or rejecting nomination papers is January 3, and the appellate tribunal is expected to decide on the appeals by January 10. The revised list of candidates will be published on Jan 11 and the last date for withdrawing one’s candidature is Jan 12. Election symbols will be assigned to political parties on January 13, and the polls are scheduled for February 8, as per the ECP announcement. Political stalwarts of KP file nomination papers: In Peshawar, political stalwarts of different political parties submitted nomination papers for national and provincial assembly Constituencies for the 2024 general election. Veteran politician and former Federal Minister, Ghulam Ahmed Bilour, and leader of Pakistan, Tahrik-e-Insaf Sher Afzal Marwat, have filed nomination papers for the National Assembly (NA 32) constituency in Peshawar. According to the Election Commission KP Office, over 10 candidates filed nomination papers for the above constituency for the February 8 general election in 2024. Similarly, former Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mahmood Khan has filed nomination papers for NA 2, NA 3, and NA 4 Swat. He also submitted nomination papers for PK-4 Swat. Similarly, 53 nomination papers were filed for women-reserved seats in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Today is the last day to file nomination papers. In Karachi, a total of 1,405 nomination papers were submitted for Karachi’s National and Sindh Assembly seats so far. As per details, the aspiring candidates have filed 1072 nominations for 47 seats of Sindh Assembly from Karachi, while 333 nomination forms were submitted for 22 National Assem-
Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Circle Rawalpindi has arrested the coaccused involved in a case of online sexual harassment and blackmailing of women on Sunday. The accused sexually harassed the victim on YouTube channel. According to FIA officials, accused Zahid Khan was arrested from Rawalpindi and before this accused Noman Salim was also arrested in the said case. The accused with his accomplices used to force women to become friends and then they started sexually harassing the victims online. The accused were also found involved in blackmailing several women. Mobile phones and other evidence were taken into custody from the arrested accused. Inspector Malik Owais arrested the accused and started the investigation The scope of the investigation has been widened on the identification of the arrested accused. Actions have also been initiated against the accused residing abroad. Interpol has also been contacted to arrest the accused residing abroad.
Anti-polio drive targeting over 40m children to begin on Jan 8
Staff RepoRt
Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab has said that the idea of inclusivity for development and improvement can create a society where there is no room for any kind of discrimination according to Article 25 of our constitution. Things will change with new and young minds coming in politics and government sector and the trend of bringing everyone together will grow, he said while addressing as chief guest the closing session of the first Ida Rieu Inclusive Parliament organized by the Ida Rieu Welfare Association. On this occasion, President of Ida Rieu Welfare Association, Nadira Panjwani, Secretary Department for Differently able Persons, Government of Sindh Taha Farooqui and others were also present. Mr Wahab offered the institution to hold the next meeting of Youth Parliament in the council hall of Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, we will provide all the facilities for the meeting, Mayor Karachi said that people with different abilities are valuable to the society. If such people participate in the policy for-
Staff RepoRt
bly seats from the city. Moreover, over 400 nomination papers have been submitted for special seats, reserved for women and minorities, from Sindh. PTI OVERCOMES CHALLENGES IN NOMINATIONS FILING: Amid the formidable challenges, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has achieved a significant milestone in the submission of nomination papers for the majority of its candidates set to participate in the upcoming general elections on February 8. Among the notable party leaders who have successfully submitted their nomination papers are PTI founder Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Zain Qureshi, Mehr Bano Qureshi, Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Ali Amin Gandapur, Monis Elahi, Dr Yasmin Rashid, Hammad Azhar, Senator Ejaz Chaudhry, Mian Aslam Iqbal, Sheikh Imtiaz Mehmood, Taimur Malik, Sanam Javed and others. Aliya Hamza Malik’s nomination papers have also been submitted. She is a PTI candidate and is in prison with Khadija Shah and others. However, the path for all PTI candidates has been exceptionally challenging, despite the clear directives of the Supreme Court and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). Law enforcement agencies have allegedly exhibited questionable behaviour towards PTI candidates, as evident in numerous social media posts where candidates and their legal counsels exposed instances of lawlessness. These posts included video clips depicting officials in civilian clothes and police uniforms attempting to snatch PTI candidates’ nomination papers. Reports of abductions and arrests of PTI candidates and their legal representatives flooded social media platforms nationwide. The circumstances faced by the nation’s largest political party and ECP officials across Punjab have become increasingly challenging due to the high-handedness of law enforcement agencies. M Abdul Wadood Khan, the district election commissioner of Lahore, has filed a written complaint with the provincial election commissioner, Punjab. He reported multiple complaints from returning officers in Lahore regarding interference by law enforcement agencies, especially the police department, in their official duties. Khan emphasised the ur-
gency of addressing these complaints to avoid any hindrance in the ongoing election activities. NO ONE WILL BE ALLOWED TO INTERRUPT IN ROS: PEC PUNJAB: Punjab’s Provincial Election Commissioner (PEC) Punjab, Saeed Gul has said that no one would be allowed to interrupt in duties of returning officers. Taking notice of snatching nomination papers and disrupting by police, the PEC Punjab made a telephonic contact with Inspector General Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar. Saeed Gul said that interruption in work of returning officers was not acceptable at all and Election Commission would provide level playing field to all political parties to ensure transparent elections. He said that it was right of the candidates to submit nomination papers for taking part in elections. If police stopped any candidate from submitting nomination papers, legal action would be taken against it, he warned. Speaking on the occasion, IGP Dr. Usman Anwar assured PEC Punjab of extending all cooperation in this connection. He said that directives have been issues to all Regional Police Officers (RPOs) for cooperating with the candidates and they were with Election Commission for conducting transparent elections. The IGP said that any police official found in illegal interference or interrupting election process would have to face the consequences. MARYAM NAWAZ TO CONTEST FROM PP-80 SARGODHA: In a strategic move, Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Organiser of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), submitted her nomination papers for contesting the upcoming elections from PP-80 Sargodha. This announcement comes in addition to her earlier decision to contest from NA-120 Lahore and PP-165 Lahore. Maryam Nawaz has already submitted her nomination papers for these constituencies, showcasing a simultaneous and dynamic approach in her electoral strategy. The move to contest from PP-80 Sargodha indicates a strategic expansion of Maryam Nawaz’s electoral footprint, emphasizing the PML-N’s commitment to participating actively in various constituencies.
Countrywide anti-polio vaccination campaign to immunise more than 40 million children under the age of five will kick off on January 8 in three phases. According to details, the fiveday vaccination campaign is being held in three phases to save children from the crippling disease of polio. The first phase of the antipolio drive will begin from January 8, 2024 to 14 January, sources said and added second phase will be held from 15 January to 19 in North Waziristan, Bannu. The third phase will be held in South Waziristan. During the drive over 40 million children will be vaccinated against poliovirus, while over 300,000 health workers will be deployed to complete the drive. The Ministry of Health confirmed poliovirus in environmental samples of Quetta district. According to the Ministry of Health spokesperson, the poliovirus was found in two samples of sewage water from Quetta. He said that the surveillance system of the polio program is very strong. The spokesperson said that the government is ensuring effective measures to eradicate polio. He said an integrated strategy has been formulated in high-risk areas of polio.
PDP chief calls for funds release to rebuild flood-hit houses KARACHI
Reconstruction of the houses that were razed in flash floods last year in in Sindh and Balochistan is still a distant dream and the government should release the requisite funds to the affected people for repair and reconstruction of their damaged houses, said Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Altaf Shakoor here Sunday. He said in Sindh alone one million people were displaced and more than 50000 houses damaged in the October 2022 mega floods but the affected people are yet to compensated. He said Pakistan got pledges of heavy assistance from the international community and the government itself had also earmarked funds for the rehabilitation of the distressed people but practically no solid step has yet been taken regarding the reconstruction of the damaged structures. Altaf Shakoor said the government has simply forgotten the flood-hit people and is least concerned about their plights. He said the climate change is still a big threat to Pakistan but no precautionary efforts are being taken in this regard. He said on one hand the country faces water shortages and droughts and on the other hands heavy rains cause floods and drown people. He said new dams and flood canals are not being constructed to deal with this serious issue because our ruler have got some other priorities than taking care of the basic problems facing the nation and country. He said in fact our rulers are just pseudo rulers as the actual policies are being formed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB). These international lenders in fact are our real rulers. They govern us like modern versions of the East India Company. He said unless the killer ‘debt trap’ is broken we can’t get a real freedom and continued to be a colonized country. He said the government has no idea, as well as, intention of how to get rid of this debt trap.
Chairman Wapda reviews pace of work on K-IV project LAHORE
Staff RepoRt
Chairman Wapda Lt-Gen (r) Engineer Sajjad Ghani on Sunday visited Greater Karachi Bulk Water Supply Scheme (K-IV Project) to review progress on the project. A spokesman for Wapda informed that the K-IV project envisages to supply 650 million gallon per day (MGD) to Karachi from Keenjhar lake. The project will be completed in two phases. At present,
WAPDA is constructing Phase-I, which is scheduled for completion in October 2024. Phase-I of K-IV Project will supply 260 MGD to Karachi. PC-I cost of the project is Rs126 billion, expenditure till date is Rs40 billion and accumulative progress of 40 per cent has been achieved. Chairman Wapda was also accompanied by General Manager (Projects) South, Chief Engineer/Project Director K-IV and representatives of the Consultants and the Contractors during the visit.
Lt-Gen (retd) Engr Sajjad Ghani visited in detail several sites of the project and witnessed construction work going on there. The project team briefed the chairman about the progress achieved so far. It was briefed that construction activities are continuing on all eight sites of the project. These sites include intake structure, pumping stations, water conveyance system consisting of pressurized pipes, reservoirs and filtration plants, project offices, colony and the approach road.
Staff RepoRt
The status relating to provision of the funds through Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) was reviewed in detail during the briefing. Besides, the issues about augmentation of water distribution system to be done by the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) and the power component to be arranged by the Sindh Government, also came under discussion. K-IV is a project of immense importance for Karachi and the Wapda is striving hard
to complete this project in accordance with the schedule. The Chairman maintained that scheduled completion of the project is, however, linked with timely provision of the funds. He said that arrangement of the power component and augmentation of the water distribution system as per the plan are also equally important, so that the people of Karachi could benefit from the project. He directed the project management to keep close liaison with all stakeholders for completion of K-IV Project as early as possible.
04 COMMENT
Stability beyond kinetics
Over-extended caretaker tenure
T
The new government must determine what went wrong
Pakistan needs to stabilize its western border
HE caretaker government has completed 149 days in office, making it the longest caretaker government since the system began. However, the caretaker set-up is likelier to last longer, for about two weeks after the elections to be held on February 8, with the next elected government thus likely to take office about 200 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly on August 11. The caretaker government will thus probably have spent more than twice the constitutionally prescribed period for elections, which is 90 days. If one turns to the Punjab and KP Assemblies, which were dissolved in January, the caretaker governments there will have held office for well over a year by the time the handover of power to elected governments is carried out Perhaps one of the foremost tasks of the caretakers was to ensure elections were held on time; that they could not do. Is the country supposed to forget the delay and be grateful that elections were held at all? There must be a thorough investigation of the circumstances on this deviation. That one constitutional provision demanded delimitations, and the other demanded elections, forced a choice. The details of how that choice was made, and who made it, needs to be examined. Whichever party forms the government, must ensure that this deviation does not occur again. The problem is not just that of overstaying one’s welcome. This also creates the very instability acknowledged by all to be so harmful to the economy. There is a definite relief, still prevailing, that elections may not take place. As steps on the checklist as ticked off, the possibility recedes. Further, the need for another IMF programme is a strong indicator that elections will take place, because the IMF will only negotiate with an elected government. The excuses that were used to put off the Punjab and KP elections, of militant activity, have not only not gone away, but probably won’t. Someone somewhere does not seem to realize that elections are a necessity in a democracy, and that their results must be respected. Previous experiments of the type mentioned by previous COAS Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa have shown that interventions do not lead to the results sought. It is best to bow to the will of the people. But that will must be expressed freely.
P
Dr zafar Khan SafDar
AKISTAN has complex geopolitical dynamics on its western borders, with historical context, contemporary challenges, and potential solutions for ensuring stability in the region. Afghanistan and Iran bordering Pakistan’s Western side, have unique histories, cultures, and strategic importance. The historical context of British colonial rule is essential to understand the complexities of Pakistan’s western borders. The Durand Line, drawn in the late 19th century, arbitrarily divided Pashtun tribal lands between what is now Pakistan and Afghanistan, creating a source of long-standing resentment and disputes. Afghanistan has been a key factor in the region’s instability, with ongoing political turmoil, the Soviet invasion in the 1980s, and the subsequent civil war and Taliban rule contributing to a volatile situation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Pakistan’s western border with Iran has been relatively stable, with a history of cooperation in some areas. However, Iran’s relations with Pakistan are influenced by issues such as border security, the Balochistan insurgency, and sectarian conflicts. Contemporary challenges in the region include militancy and terrorism, refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), economic underdevelopment, cross-border trade, and water disputes. Diplomatic efforts should be intensified to address border disputes, while counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts should focus on targeting extremist groups operating on Pakistan’s soil and cooperating with Afghanistan to dismantle their safe havens. Pakistan and Iran have am intricate and multifaceted relationship shaped by their shared interests and challenges. The countries share a 959-km border, which has strategic and economic implications. They have deep cultural, historical, and religious ties, with the majority of Iranians being Shia Muslims and the majority of Pakistanis being Sunni Muslims. Economic cooperation between the two countries has been a priority, particularly in trade, energy, and infrastructure. The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, also known as the Peace Pipeline, aims to transport Iranian natural gas to Pakistan, but has faced delays and challenges, including international sanctions on Iran. Regional security and stability are now more crucial due to the changing world, and Pakistan and Iran must manage these shared security problems through in-
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
Yousaf Nizami
creased coordination and intelligence sharing. The triangular interactions between Iran, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia create a composite geopolitical situation, with Pakistan in a difficult balancing act to maintain close ties without upsetting Iran. Military cooperation between Pakistan and Iran has been influenced by regional security dynamics and shared objectives. Border security, counterterrorism initiatives, joint training exercises, defence industry cooperation, and maritime security have been key areas of cooperation. Balochistan’s strategic position and geopolitical dynamics have historically impacted relations between Pakistan and Iran. Energy cooperation is also a significant aspect of their relations, with Pakistan importing electricity from Iran to meet its energy needs during power shortages. Border security issues, such as smuggling and illegal immigration, have been addressed through increased cooperation and coordination. Diplomatic relations between the two countries maintain embassies in each other’s capitals and engage in dialogues on regional and international issues, including those related to Afghanistan and the Middle East. The situation in Afghanistan has been a critical concern for both countries, with Pakistan and Iran working together on issues like the Afghan peace process and managing the refugee crisis. Geopolitical factors, such as the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the Gulf states, have influenced their relations, particularly in relation to their relationships with the USA and regional rivalries. Despite challenges such as border incidents, drug trafficking, and sectarian issues, both countries have sought to maintain their relations and cooperation. The Pak-Afghan border has become a contentious issue due to the Afghan state’s rejection of the border, rising militancy in Pakistan, and crossborder assaults. The unrestricted movement across the border poses a threat to internal security for successive regimes in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Over 90 percent of the flow from Afghanistan into Pakistan is unmonitored daily, forcing Pakistan to consider stricter border management measures, such as fences. To achieve long-term peace and stability for
Joint Editor
Executive Editor
Today is the Quaid-e-Azam’s 147th birth anniversary
Q
Dr MuhaMMaD afzaal
UAID-E-AZAM Muhammad Ali Jinnah claimed himself to be the pupil and disciple of Gopal Krishan Gokhale, an Indian politician from Mumbai during the British Raj. The Quaid was not only attached to him, but also under his influence, especially in politics. Gokhale was an ideal as well as a hero for the Quaid. The Quaid proudly said that it was his ambition to be the Muslim Gokhale, and he said in his own words: “It is my ambition to be the Muslim Gokhale.” The Quaid’s female friend Mrs. Sarojini Naidu, (née Sarojini Chattopadhyay, born 13 February 1879 at Hyderabad, died 2 March 1949 at Lucknow) the ‘Nightingale of India’,
The Quaid performed his role to unite both Muslim and Hindus. For, this, he acted and participated in both: in discussion about the Muslim University; and at the Joint CongressLeague Committee, at Lucknow. Mrs. Sarojini Naidu took it as a large share in Hindu-Muslim Unity, of the Quaid, along with others from both sides of Muslims as well as Hindus.
wrote in a biographical sketch of the Quaid’s: “‘It is my ambition to become the Muslim Gokhale’, confessed Muhammad Ali Jinnah in a priceless moment of self-revelation.” Gopal Krishna Gokhale (born 9 May 1866 at Ratnagiri, died on 19 February 1915 at Pune), a Liberal Reformist, found M. A. Jinnah the best Ambassador of Hindu-Muslim Unity. He said that, “He has true stuff in him,..., and that freedom from all sectarian prejudice which will make him the best ambassador of Hindu-Muslim Unity.” Though “the Ambassador of Hindu-Muslim Unity” was said for the Quaid the first time by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Sarojini Naidu took it as the title for M. A. Jinnah, in her essay “Muhammad Ali Jinnah: An Ambassador of Unity: A Pen Portrait.” She further said in her own words that: “But it is nonetheless his personal triumph and a testimony to his authentic mission that he stands approved and confirmed by his countryman not merely as an ambassador, but as an embodied symbol of the Hindu-Muslim Unity.” The Quaid performed his role to unite both Muslim and Hindus. For, this, he acted and participated in both: in discussion about the Muslim University; and at the Joint Congress-League Committee, at Lucknow. Mrs. Sarojini Naidu took it as a large share in Hindu-Muslim Unity, of the Quaid, along with others from both sides of Muslims as well as Hindus. She narrated it thus: “It is an open secret that his was a large and responsible share in the recent discussions regarding the Muslim University as well as the anxious deliberations of the joint Congress-League Committee that sat at Lucknow last year to formulate a scheme of Indian reform elaborated from Memorandum of the Nineteen.” In her Pen Portrait of the Quaid, she declared his ambition to become the Muslim
Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965
Afghanistan and Pakistan, an efficient border management system is required. The Pakistan Army has initiated a strategy for efficient border management, including building border forts, installing monitoring technology, building crossing terminals, and erecting a border fence without cooperation from Afghanistan. Effective border control aims to limit the crossborder movement of terrorists and their facilitators and abettors and replace the centuries-old paradigm of unregulated borders with one monitored and regulated in accordance with tribal regions’ social norms. The fence covers hundreds of kilometres of high infiltration-prone tribal districts including Khyber, Bajaur, Mohmand, North and South Waziristan, Kurram, and Dir/Chitral. The entire western border is monitored by the Special Intrusion Detection System (SID), which faces challenges such as mountain ranges, severe weather, cross-border shooting on fence companies, and mountain patrols. Economic development in the border regions is crucial for stability, with investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare improving living conditions and reducing the allure of militancy. Humanitarian support from the international community should continue to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghan refugees in Pakistan and support IDPs. Formalizing cross-border trade agreements with Afghanistan and Iran can help regulate commerce and reduce smuggling, contributing to economic growth in the border regions and fostering cooperation. Both countries understand that their security and stability are linked, growth in Pakistan opens the door for a wealthy Afghanistan, while a stable Afghanistan guarantees Pakistan’s western boundary. Improved relations between the two nations are essential to the development and security of the area. Balancing India’s involvement in Afghanistan and its longstanding rivalry with Pakistan has implications for the region’s stability, making stability beyond kinetics a multifaceted challenge. The writer is Ph.D in Political Science, and visiting faculty at QAU Islamabad. His area of specialization is political development and social change. He can be reached at zafarkhansafdar@yahoo.com and tweet@zafarkhansafdar.
Both countries understand that their security and stability are linked, growth in Pakistan opens the door for a wealthy Afghanistan, while a stable Afghanistan guarantees PakistanÊs western boundary. Improved relations between the two nations are essential to the development and security of the area. Balancing IndiaÊs involvement in Afghanistan and its longstanding rivalry with Pakistan has implications for the regionÊs stability, making stability beyond kinetics a multifaceted challenge.
The Quaid-e-Azam’s ambition to become the Muslim Gokhale Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi
The QuaidÊs female friend Mrs. Sarojini Naidu, (née Sarojini Chattopadhyay, born 13 February 1879 at Hyderabad, died 2 March 1949 at Lucknow) the ÂNightingale of IndiaÊ, wrote in a biographical sketch of the QuaidÊs: „ÂIt is my ambition to become the Muslim GokhaleÊ, confessed Muhammad Ali Jinnah in a priceless moment of self-revelation.‰ Gokhale, as his ‘fair ambition’. She wrote that: “Who can foretell the secrets of tomorrow? Who can foresee the hidden forces that sometimes work to build our destiny higher than our dream? Perchance it is written in the book of the future that he whose fair ambition it is to become the Muslim Gokhale may in some glorious and terrible crisis of our national struggle pass into immortality as the Mazzini of the Indian Liberation.” The Quaid always tried his best, for the fulfillment of his dreamy and unique ambition to become The Muslim Gokhale. The writer is a freelance columnist
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
Adulterated milk
THE quality of milk in Pakistan has gone worse with time. More than 70 per cent of the milk in the country happens to be adulterated, and this can cause several diseases. Almost every milk-seller adds water to increase the quantity of milk. This happens at the cost of the consumers. Pakistan is among the largest producers of milk in the world, but it is a shame that our people are unable to get a glass of pure milk. This is a great concern that must be addressed by the relevant authorities. SAFIULLAH FAISAL SHEIKHUPURA
Revisiting strategy
AS happens often, if not always, the initiative to distribute laptops among academically sound students has gone down the lane of favouritism and embezzlement. Besides, the criterion based solely on academic performance overlooked the broader financial challenges that a big chunk of students face. I know some students having fancy laptops who also became ‘beneficiaries’ under the scheme, while others struggling financially failed to make the cut. Instead of handing out laptops, it would be advisable to provide financial assistance in the shape of scholarships to have a far-reaching impact on a student’s academic career. MOHSIN ABBAS KARACHI
Low interest rate
I have a foreign currency account with a local bank for over 20 years. The bank pays around one per cent interest, whereas the interest rate is around 4.5 per cent in the international market. I wonder why the banks are giving such a low interest. Are they making huge profit on these accounts by keeping for themselves a big margin? The State Bank of Pakistan should look into the matter and help forex depositors get market-based interest rates on their accounts with a fair profit margin. EJAZ AHMAD MAGOON DUBAI
Orange line
THE route of Orange Line runs from AO Chowk to Nishan-i-Haider Chowk in Orangi Town. It does not cover a major area in and around Orangi Town. The estimated population of Orangi Town is 520,125. There are many middle class and lower-middle class people who cannot afford private transportation. Therefore, they rely solely on public transport services.The authorities concerned should extend the route of Orange Line to cover Gulshan-i-Bihar and Ittehad Town so that the people of these areas may have an easy access to a comfortable and safe public transport services. AIMAN ASLAM KARACHI
Qingqi Rickshaw
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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9
I
Monday, 25 December, 2023
Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545
I
THOUSANDS of passengers in certain areas of Karachi are facing immense trouble due to the suspension of qingqi rickshaw service in their respective areas. The stranded passengers, including myself, have no option other than travelling in mini buses. The drivers and conductors of these mini buses are unable to handle such a load of passengers, and they not only misbehave with the passengers, but also charge them unfair amounts. KM SHAFI KARACHI
Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk
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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk
COMMENT 05
The USA’s stance and Pakistan’s political turmoil Monday, 25 December, 2023
The travails of democracy
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Dr MuhaMMaD akraM Zaheer
EFORE the Iraq war, the USA might have liked the idea of promoting democracy. But when the war did not go well, officials from both the Bush Administration and Democratic presidential candidates were being careful. They were worried that pushing for democracy might lead to instability. Despite concerns about the effectiveness of the country’s military, there was a fear that any change, even if well-intentioned, could put American security at risk. The debate in Washington reflected a cautious approach. Some people from both on the right and the left argued that trying to promote democracy in places like Iraq is repeating the same mistake. They believe it is better to have a strong leader who can maintain order even if it means some level of control. In Pakistan, moderates are puzzled and feel abandoned by the USA. They argue that the American attitude is confusing and risky. They emphasize that their movement for democracy has been peaceful and unique in the Muslim world. The USA has high stakes in Pakistan, especially because they think Al-Qaeda are believed to be hiding there. While the General Pervez Musharraf had targeted Al-Qaeda members in cities, critics say he hadn’t effectively dealt with the tribal areas. Some argue that political and economic approaches are essential, not just military ones, to counter extremism. They believed a civilian government could handle this better than a military one. Experts said that the majority of Pakistan’s population and military remained moderate, reducing the risk of hardline Islamists taking control. However,
General Musharraf’s popularity was declining, and there was a call for democratic reforms. Critics argue that the military’s prolonged governance weakens democratic institutions and the only way for Pakistan to democratize was by practicing democracy. There was a debate about whether the intelligence service in Pakistan would cooperate less under a military or civilian leader. Some cautioned that democracy had failed in Pakistan before due to corruption and military interventions. The idea was raised that military and civilian leaders should negotiate a plan to gradually reduce the military’s role in politics while securing its role in national defence, similar to what happened in Turkey and Latin America. Some members of Congress and experts have called for a review of US policy toward Pakistan, suggesting that aid should depend on better performance in the War on Terror and increased spending on development and education in Pakistan. However, the US administration continued to express support for General Musharraf, with some advocating caution. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton mentioned that General Musharraf had become “quite antidemocratic,” but she also said the USA relied on him to control the tribal areas where the Taliban and Al-Qaeda fighters came from. Senator John Edwards was more straightforward, saying, “Given the power of radical Islam in Pakistan, there is absolutely no way to know what kind of government will take his place.” Perkovich, the Carnegie analyst, emphasized the need for sophisticated American diplomacy to broker an agreement that shifts power gradually from the military to civilians but he noted that neither political party has figured out the right approach to Pakistan, making it a bipartisan
problem in avoiding a solution. When Benazir Bhutto was killed, it happened in Rawalpindi, a historic town near a park named after another Pakistani Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan, who was also assassinated there in 1951. Benazir’s father, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, another former prime minister, was executed in 1979 at the city’s central jail, just a short distance away. The killings were different Liaquat Ali Khan was shot by a Pashtun separatist, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was hanged after being found guilty by a court appointed by a military dictator and the investigation into Benazir Bhutto’s assassination was ongoing. Despite the differences, the fact that all three leaders died in the same part of Rawalpindi highlights how violent events have often changed Pakistan’s political landscape. It also emphasizes the fragility of the country’s hopes for a stable democracy. In its 76 years since formation, Pakistan has swung between military rule and elected governments. Now, there’s optimism about reviving democracy. However, both military and civilian leaders have contributed to the challenges. The USA urged Pervez Musharraf to allow a return to democracy as a way to restore stability. Yet, with Benazir’s death, the prospects for a successful transition have become more uncertain. While the focus is often on the failings of military rulers, civilian politicians in Pakistan have also struggled to bring stability. Many believe that both politicians and generals share responsibility for undermining democracy over the years. Benazir, despite being a proponent of democracy, raises the persistent question in Pakistan’s history when, or if, the country will truly move towards building a democracy that lives up to its name. The narrative
This control over the internet poses a threat to PakistanÊs fragile democracy as authorities suppress the PTI and limit online freedom of expression. To ensure a fair election, the authorities should stick to the constitutional 90 days limit and stop punishing ordinary people for sharing their opinions. The military should not overpower the voice of the Pakistani people in its quest to strengthen its position.
Israeli military censor bans reporting on these 8 subjects
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INTERCEPT
ken klippenstein anD Daniel BoGuslaw
EAPONS used by the Israel Defense Forces, security cabinet leaks, and stories about people held hostage by Hamas — these are some of the eight subjects the media are forbidden from reporting in Israel, according to a document obtained by The Intercept. The document, a censorship order issued by the Israeli military to the media as part of its war on Hamas, has not been previously reported. The memo, written in English, was an unusual move for the IDF’s censor, which has been part of the Israel military for more than seven decades. “I haven’t ever seen instructions like this sent from the censor aside from general notices broadly telling outlets to comply, and even then it was only sent to certain people,” said Michael Omer-Man, a former editor-in-chief of the Israel’s +972 Magazine and today the director of research for Israel– Palestine at Democracy in the Arab World Now, or DAWN, a U.S. advocacy group. Titled “Operation ‘Swords of Iron’ Israeli Chief Censor Directive to the Media,” the order is not dated, but its reference to Operation Swords of Iron — the name of Israel’s current military operation in Gaza — makes clear that it was issued sometime after Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel. The order is signed by the chief censor of the Israel Defense Forces, Brig. Gen. Kobi Mandelblit. (The Israeli Military Censor did not respond to a request for comment on the memo.) The document was provided to The Intercept by a source who himself was given a copy by the Israeli military. An identical document appears on the Israeli government’s website. “In light of the current security situation and the intensive media coverage, we wish to encourage you to submit to the Censorship all materials dealing with the activities of the Israeli Defense Forces (I.D.F.) and the Israeli security forces prior to their broadcast,” the order says. “Please update your staff of the content of this letter, with an emphasis on the news desk and field reporters.” The order enumerates eight topics the media are forbidden from reporting on without prior approval from the Israeli Military Censor. Some of the topics touch on hot-button political issues in Israel and internationally, such as potentially embarrassing revelations about weapons used by Israel captured by Hamas, discussions of security cabinet meetings and the Israeli hostages in Gaza — an issue that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been widely criticized for mishandling. The memo also bans reporting on details of military operations, Israeli intelligence, rocket attacks that hit sensitive locations in Is-
blaming generals for stifling democracy while appealing to Western views also seeks to excuse the politicians’ role in weakening democratic institutions for personal gain or settling political scores. In April 2022, there was a crisis in Pakistan when the leader of the PTI Imran Khan, lost a vote of confidence and his position as the prime minister. People were also upset about the bad economy. Khan blamed the military and foreign powers for interfering. The opposition took over and Khan wanted a quick election and criticized the military. Later, more than 200 cases were filed against Khan, including serious charges. He was arrested in May, leading to protests by his supporters. The Supreme Court released him but he was arrested again in August and given a three-year sentence for corruption. The Election Commission banned him from public office. Now the PTI is struggling. Many supporters are arrested and key members left the party because of pressure. In July, some parliamentarians formed a new group. The party is targeted by the authorities with Khan’s deputy also arrested. The outgoing coalition
rael, cyberattacks, and visits by senior military officials to the battlefield. Concerns about the politicization of the military censor are not merely hypothetical. Last month, the Israeli censor reportedly complained that Netanyahu was pressuring him to crack down on certain media outlets without legitimate reason. Netanyahu denied the charge. SELF-CENSORSHIP AND SECRECY: The Israeli Military Censor is a unit located within the IDF’s Military Intelligence Directorate. The unit is commanded by the chief censor, a military officer appointed by the defense minister. Since Israel’s war on Hamas started, more than 6,500 new items were either completely censored or partially censored by the Israeli government, Guy Lurie, a research fellow at Jerusalem-based Israel Democracy Institute, told The Intercept. To put the figure in context, Lurie said it was about four times more than before the war started, citing a report in the Israeli outlet Shakuf based on freedom of information requests. The number of submissions to the censor, however, are significantly higher at this time of heightened conflict, so Lurie noted that news items are facing a normal level of censorship in light of the ratio to total submissions. The actual number of new stories affected by the censor, however, can never be quantified. Because of a system of close relationships and a feeling for what to expect, Israeli journalists can censor themselves. “People self-censor, people do not even try to report the stories they know won’t get through,” Omer-Man said. “And that is really showing right now in how little regular Israelis are seeing in the press about what is happening in Gaza to Palestinians.” It is these kinds of unofficial censorship that give the censor in Israel its power, said experts. In a 2022, a State Department report on human rights in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories took on the military censor, singling out two Arabic-language newspapers in occupied East Jerusalem. While noting that the IDF censor didn’t review the papers, the State Department said, “Editors and journalists from those publications, however, reported they engaged in self-censorship due to fear of retribution by Israeli authorities.” At one time, the censor had an Editors Committee composed of three members: one from the press, one from the military, and a publicly elected member who served as chair. Though the Editors Committee no longer officially exists, a similar, albeit informal body still maintains some sway. Though the law that mandates the censor gives it widespread powers, the censor maintains its respectability in Israel by being politically independent and exercising restraint, especially in comparison to other countries in the region. “If you look at the law that governs censorship, it’s really draconian in terms of the formal authorities the censor has,” Lurie told The Intercept. “But it’s mitigated by this informal arrangement.” Almost all of it happens in secret: Committee discussions are confidential, as are most communiques between media outlets and the censor. Asked why the processes are so secretive and why even the news organizations won’t speak out, one Western journalist based in Israel and Palestine, who asked for anonymity to avoid reprisals, had a blunt assessment: “Because it’s embarrassing.” FOREIGN PRESS AND THE CENSOR: That the memo of directives for the current Is-
raeli war on Gaza was in English suggests that it was intended for Western media. Foreign journalists working in Israel must obtain government permission, including a declaration that they will abide by the censor. “In order to get a visa as a journalist, you have to get approval from GPO” — Government Press Office — “and therefore you have to sign a document that says you will comply with the censor,” said Omer-Man. “That in itself is probably against the ethics guidelines at a bunch of papers.” Nonetheless, many journalists do sign the document. While The Associated Press, for instance, didn’t respond to The Intercept’s query about whether it cooperates with the military censor, the news wire has in the past reported on the issue, including admitting that it holds itself to the directive. “The Associated Press has agreed, like other organizations, to abide by the rules of the censor, which is a condition for receiving permission to operate as a media organization in Israel,” the agency wrote in a 2006 story. “Reporters are expected to censor themselves and not report any of the forbidden material.” ISRAEL’S WAR ON GAZA: Asked if it complied with guidance from Israel’s military censor and whether its compliance had changed since the onset of the war, Azhar AlFadl Miranda, the communications director for the Washington Post, told The Intercept in an email, “We aren’t able to share insight,” adding that “we don’t publicly discuss our editorial decisions.” The New York Times told The Intercept, “The New York Times reports independently on the full spectrum of this complex conflict. We do not submit coverage to the Israeli military censor.” (Reuters did not answer The Intercept’s questions.) Foreign press that cooperates with the censor is subject to the same system: Many stories don’t get passed through the censor, but certain issues merit submitting the stories. “They know that they need to pass onto the censor reports that they want to publish on certain subjects,” said Lurie. “There are subjects that the media know that they need to get the censor’s approval.” One of the things that makes the written, English-language censorship order unusual, however, is the order’s overt reference to the Hamas war. “I’ve never seen that for a specific war,” Lurie said. One subject known to be sensitive in Israel is the country’s covert nuclear arsenal. In 2004, BBC journalist Simon Wilson interviewed Mordechai Vanunu, a whistleblower on the nuclear program, who had just been released from prison. The Israeli censors demanded copies of the interview, but Wilson did not comply. Wilson was then barred from reentry, and the Israel government demanded an apology. Initially, the BBC refused to furnish one, but eventually the worldwide news giant folded. “He confirms that after the Vanunu interview he was contacted by the censors and was asked to give them the tapes. He did not do so. He regrets the difficulties this caused,” the BBC said in the apology. “He undertakes to obey the regulations in future and understands that any further violation will result in his visa being revoked.” The apology, like so much else of the censor’s work, was to have remained secret, according to a 2005 Guardian story, but the BBC accidentally posted it on its website, before quickly removing it.
said a new election can’t happen until the Election Commission redraws electoral boundaries which has taken until December. This give the authorities more time to control the PTI. There is a risk of violence amid the political chaos. In July, the Islamic State killed many people by bombing a conference. More attacks could cause instability, giving the military a reason to get more involved in the election. However, using the internet for political discussions is risky because the government tightly controls it, limiting citizens’ freedom of speech. Internet access is crucial for elections as people use it to learn about candidates, share their views and find voting information. But sometimes, the government restricts internet access like after the arrest of Khan in May 2023, when mobile connectivity nationwide was limited. The government is also directly punishing those who express their opinions. In February 2023, a court sentenced a supporter of the PTI party to three years in prison for criticizing the military on social media. Social media harassment is common especially against women journalists covering politics often at the encouragement of politicians. Human rights advocates say that social media companies haven’t done enough to moderate content and respond to emergencies, leaving users in Pakistan to deal with the challenges on their own. The anti-PTI coalition passed controversial bills before leaving office, including the E-Safety Bill allowing the creation of a new authority to monitor and regulate online content. Existing authorities have a history of abusing their powers like blocking Wikipedia for two days in February for refusing to remove content considered sacrilegious This control over the internet poses a threat to Pakistan’s fragile democracy as authorities suppress the PTI and limit online freedom of expression. To ensure a fair election, the authorities should stick to the constitutional 90 days limit and stop punishing ordinary people for sharing their opinions. The military should not overpower the voice of the Pakistani people in its quest to strengthen its position. The writer has a PhD in Political Science and can be reached at akramzaheer86@yahoo.com
Asia, world should remain vigilant on the remilitarization of Japan
For Japan, to become a force agitating for more military buildup is very bad for this region and the world at large, because many countries were victimized by Japan when it followed this imperialist philosophy of using military power to invade other countries
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GLOBAL TIMES Victor Gao
HE Japanese government approved a record-high 7.9 trillion yen ($56 billion) defense budget for fiscal 2024, as the nation continues to invest in longerrange strike capabilities under a five-year plan to fundamentally revamp its defense posture, according to Japanese media outlet the Mainichi Shimbun. This is not constructive for Japan, as it is in violation of the country’s pacifist constitution. Also, it is afraid that this will increase tensions in East Asia, rather than alleviate the situation. For Japan, to become a force agitating for more military buildup is very bad for this region and the world at large, because many countries were victimized by Japan when it followed this imperialist philosophy of using military power to invade other countries. The typical case is bombing Pearl Harbor and launching a war with the US. I think we need to make it very clear to the Japanese government that it cannot have a free hand in increasing its military budget to develop its military capabilities to such an extent. And Japan needs to be fully aware that the consequences of a continued military buildup constitute a threat to its neighboring countries, especially China. Japan’s defense budget is very much prodded on by the US. Some decisionmakers in Washington are really urging Tokyo into more military spending and military involvement, even trying to push Japan’s military outside of the Japanese territory into other parts of the world. The fact is that Japan was completely defeated in 1945 and forced to unconditionally surrender because of the fierce opposition from countries like China and the US. I hope Japan will never think about forfeiting the pacifist constitution, rearming itself to become another threat to East Asian countries and a force for sabotaging peace and security and development in this part of the world. At the same time, we have also noticed that Japan has shown an unusual desire for security cooperation with
ASEAN. At the summit commemorating 50 years of bilateral relations, Tokyo and the 10-member bloc agreed to deepen security ties in areas such as capacity building, defense equipment and technology, as well as joint training and exercises, according to a statement issued on Sunday. Traditionally, Japan has had robust, dynamic, extensive relations with ASEAN as a whole, and the ASEAN member states think this is purely normal and should be accepted, even welcomed. I think Japan’s desire to promote its economic ties and cultural and people-to-people exchanges with other countries, especially with ASEAN members, is normal. However, if Japan wants to add this military dimension to the normal economic and trading relations with ASEAN members, especially if such military ties have an angle against some other country in this part of the world, this will be very dangerous. ASEAN members need to be aware of the history and should never forget about the atrocities committed by the imperialists of Japan in World War II. Japan left behind deeply rooted records of atrocities against mankind in this part of the world. I don’t think anyone will serve him or herself well by forgetting about all these atrocities that Japan committed against innocent people in so many countries. Therefore, we need to look very closely at what is happening between Japan and ASEAN as a whole and ASEAN members. For normal business relations, Japan should be welcomed. But for dangerous military aspects, they need a high level of vigilance, because no one would welcome the remilitarization of Japan. Japan should remain a pacifist country, rather than a nation constituting a threat to other countries. I hope Japan will be wise and knowledgeable enough to refuse to be hijacked onto the bandwagon of a major power and to become cannon fodder for another war. We all need to promote peace rather than agitate for war in East Asia and the world at large. War should not be an option for East Asian countries. Japan should not spend beyond control in arming itself or rearming itself, because the rearmament of Japan will be considered a direct threat to the peace and stability of many countries in the world, not only for China. I believe ASEAN, as a framework and regional organization for peace, stability and development, has enough wisdom, knowledge, audacity and vision to make sure ASEAN remains a peacemaker. The author is a chair professor at Soochow University and Vice President of the Center for China and Globalization.
06 NEWS
CIVILIAN DEATHS IN CUSTODY FUEL ANGER AND QUESTIONS IN KASHMIR, SAYS NYT Modi-led regime has waged full fledged war against Kashmiris: APHC
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WASHINGTON AGENCIES
ASHMIRIS are calling for an investigation into the deaths of three civilians who were among several people detained by Indian soldiers, who are accused by human rights groups of getting away with their actions because of laws granting them broad impunity, reported a US newspaper. The US newspaper, New York Times, in its report quoted Mohammad Iqbal, a local businessman and an uncle of one of the victims, to have said that soldiers arrived on Friday morning in the village of Topa Peer in the Poonch District and detained at least eight people.
His nephew and two others were found dead on a roadside that evening. Their bodies showed signs of torture, he said. “They were innocent civilians,” Mr. Iqbal said. “This is a grave injustice.” The local police took custody of the bodies and contacted the families. Several other people detained on Friday were released and have been hospitalized, according to local officials. A video that purported to show the torture of the detained civilians spread online, fueling widespread anger. To prevent protest in the districts of Poonch and Rajouri, the authorities shut down internet service and deployed more forces on roads leading to native villages of the victims. “Although the residents of Kashmir Valley have long accused Indian forces
US warship shoots down four drones in Red Sea: Centcom FLORIDA
AGENCIES
SRINAGAR: The All Parties Hurriyat Conference has deplored that RSSbacked Narendra Modi-led Hindutva Indian regime has waged a full-fledged war against the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir to suppress their just struggle for securing their internationally-recognized right to self-determination. According to Kashmir Media Service, APHC spokesman in a statement issued in Srinagar said that besides over one million trigger-happy troops, India is using its Hindutva RSS/BJP administration, parliament, probe bodies, intelligence agencies, communal media and biased judiciary for victimizing the Kashmiris. He said Indian Hindutva establishment is committing heinous crimes like killing innocent people, terminating employees, seizing properties and infamous Indian National Investigation Agency (NIA) and New Delhi-con-
of disappearances and extrajudicial killings, relatively remote areas like Rajouri and Poonch had historically been spared the worst of such misdeeds,” the newspaper wrote. “But in recent years, after India
stripped Kashmir of its semiautonomous status, these areas have become the scene of deadly attacks against Indian troops by Muslim militants …. At least three dozen soldiers have been killed in such attacks,” the paper added.
Number of terrorist ‘neutralized’ in northern Iraq rose to 30, says Turkish defense minister ANKARA
AGENCIES
The United States shot down four drones headed towards a US destroyer in the southern Red Sea and launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. “These attacks represent the 14th and 15th attacks on commercial shipping by Houthi militants since Oct. 17,” CENTCOM said in a post on X. The Iran-aligned Houthis, who control much of Yemen, have disrupted world trade for weeks with attacks on ships passing through the Bab al-Mandab Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea in what they say is a response to Israel’s war in Gaza. The US Naval Forces Central Command responded to distress calls from two ships under attack, CENTCOM said. A Norwegian-flagged, owned and operated chemical/oil tanker reported a near miss of a Houthi drone attack, and a Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged crude oil tanker reported being hit by a one-way attack, the post said. Two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were also “fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi controlled areas of Yemen”, it said. “No ships reported being impacted by the ballistic missiles.” The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency earlier reported that an uncrewed aerial system had exploded near a vessel in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, 45 nautical miles southwest of Saleef, Yemen. The United States launched Operation Prosperity Guardian three days ago, saying more than a dozen countries had agreed to participate in an effort that will involve joint patrols in Red Sea waters near Yemen. ‘Iranian drone ‘attack’ hit chemical tanker near India’ A drone launched from Iran struck a chemical tanker in the Indian ocean early on Saturday, the US Department of Defense said. “The motor vessel CHEM PLUTO, a Liberiaflagged, Japanese-owned, and Netherlands-operated chemical tanker was struck at approximately 10 a.m. local time (6 a.m. GMT) today in the Indian Ocean, 200 nautical miles from the coast of India, by a oneway attack drone fired from Iran,” a Pentagon spokesperson told Reuters. The incident highlights escalating regional tensions and new risk to shipping lanes after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The Iranian government, as well as its allied militant forces in Yemen, have publicly criticized the Israeli government’s military operation in Gaza. Thousands of Palestinian citizens have been killed in the ongoing conflict, according to aid monitors. The Pentagon statement said this was the “seventh Iranian attack on commercial shipping since 2021.”
trolled State Investigation Agency (SIA) conduct raids on the houses of freedom-loving people to punish the Kashmiris for demanding their right to self-determination. In addition to that, different laws have also been introduced to deprive the Kashmiris of their unique identity, history, culture, religion and above all their land. India is using Israeli tactics to snatch the land of Kashmiris and make them aliens in their own land, he deplored. The APHC spokesman said that confiscating Kashmiris’ properties on different pretexts and amendment in land laws were the conspiracies to occupy land and deprive the local people of their livelihood and resources. However, he said all Indian oppressive methods and conspiracies have failed and will fail to subdue the Kashmiris’ resolve for freedom and they would continue their struggle till complete success. AGENCIES
The number of terrorists “neutralized” since the Friday terror attacks in northern Iraq has increased to 30, Türkiye’s national defense minister said on Sunday. Yasar Guler said in a statement posted by the Defense Ministry on X that the number of terrorists “neutralized” following the terror attacks in the Claw-Lock region of northern Iraq has risen to 30. Turkish authorities use the term “neutralize” to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured. After visiting Turkish soldiers injured in the Claw-Lock Operation region, Guler went to Türkiye’s southeastern Sirnak province and visited the 23rd Infantry Division Command, where he shared information about the latest situation in the region and gave anti-terrorist operations instructions to Turkish forces. Since the PPK terrorist attack on Friday, which killed 12 soldiers, Turkish airstrikes have destroyed dozens of terror targets in northern
Iraq and Syria, neutralizing many terrorists. Following the terrorists’ attack in northern Iraq, Türkiye reaffirmed its determination to fight and eliminate terrorism at its source. Earlier on Saturday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed that Türkiye would prevent the emergence of a “terrorist structure” in northern Iraq and Syria “whatever the cost.” PKK terrorists often hide in northern Iraq to plot cross-border attacks in Türkiye. It also has a Syrian branch, known as the YPG. Türkiye launched Operation Claw-Lock in April 2022 to target the PKK terror group’s hideouts in the Metina, Zap, and AvasinBasyan regions of northern Iraq, located near the Turkish border. In its more than 35-year terror campaign against Türkiye, the PKK — listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the US, and EU — has been responsible for the deaths of more than 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants. Turkish intelligence forces ‘neutralize’ senior PKK terrorist Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) “neutralized” a
senior PKK/YPG terrorist, Turkish security sources said on Sunday. The terrorist, a Syrian national codenamed Bahoz Afrin, was the so-called ringleader of the terror group in the Ayn al-Arab region in northern Syria, the sources said on condition of anonymity. They added that MIT obtained intelligence indicating that the terrorist was planning a new act of terrorism targeting security forces along the border. The operation was launched after it was discovered that the terrorist was in the advanced stages of finalizing the plot. Reports indicate that the PKK/YPG is in a severe crisis of leadership in Ayn al-Arab, due to Turkish intelligence forces “neutralizing” terrorists sent to the region. Turkish authorities use the term “neutralize” to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured. In its more than 35-year terror campaign against Türkiye, the PKK – listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the US, and EU – has been responsible for the deaths of more than 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants.
Monday, 25 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
Macron condoles killing of 2 parishioners in Israeli attack on Latin church in Gaza ATHENS
AGENCIES
French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday condoled the killing of two parishioners in an Israeli sniper attack at Holy Family Parish in Gaza last week. In a phone call with Latin Catholic Patriarch of Jerusalem Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Macron expressed “support and solidarity with the Latin Catholic communities in the Holy Land,” according to a statement by the French presidency. He mentioned his “deep concern about the dramatic situation in the Latin parish of Gaza, where hundreds of civilians of all faiths have found refuge,” the statement said. It added that Macron reaffirmed France’s “loyalty to its commitments, and in particular, to the special role of protection of a number of Christian communities, exercised through the Consulate General of France in Jerusalem.” “This responsibility, inherited from history, will be fully assumed in the face of the contemporary risks weighing on these communities,” Macron said. Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7, killing at least 20,424 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring 54,036 others, according to health authorities in the enclave. Around 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed in the Hamas attack. The Israeli onslaught has left Gaza in ruins with half of the coastal territory’s housing stock damaged or destroyed, and nearly 2 million people displaced within the densely-populated enclave amid shortages of food and clean water.
300 Indians held in France over human trafficking charges VATRY, FRANCE AGENCIES
Issues with Canada and the United States over the charges of murder and attempt to murder Sikh leaders were still unresolved, India is faced with another charge of human trafficking. Four French judges on Sunday began questioning more than 300 Indians travelling on a plane detained near Paris on the charge of human trafficking. The Nicaragua-bound Airbus A340 has been held at Vatry airport, 150 kilometres (95 miles) east of Paris, since arriving from Dubai on Thursday for refuelling after an anonymous tip-off that it was carrying potential victims of human trafficking. Two passengers in custody since Friday had their detention extended Saturday evening for up to 48 hours, according to the Paris prosecutors office. They were being held “to verify” whether their role “may have been different than the others in this transport, and under what conditions and with what objectives”. Investigators have checked the identity of passengers and flight crew, and are verifying the “conditions and purposes” of their travel, the prosecutor added.
FG/Din Polo clinch Hamadan Lahore Open Polo C’ship title LAHORE
STAFF REPORT
FG/Din Polo grabbed the title of the Hamadan Lahore Open Polo Championship 2023 after defeating Team Remounts by 6-4 in the main final played here at Lahore Polo Club on Sunday. Team FG/Din Polo started the match in great style and put their opponents under pressure right from the word go as they succeeded in converting three tremendous goals in the first chukker. The second chukker though remained low scoring yet Remounts succeeded in opening their account with a field goal to reduce the deficit to 1-3. The third chukker also belonged to team Remounts, who added one more
goal to their tally to further reduce the margin to 2-3. The highly-charged fourth chukker saw both the teams utilizing all their energies and skills but converting one goal after another. But it was team FG/Din Polo, which played a bit better polo, thus winning the title clash by 6-4.
For team FG/Din Polo, Juan Cruz Greguol emerged as hero of the day as he contributed with fabulous five goals while the remaining one goal was converted by Bilal Haye. For team Remounts, all the four goals were fired in by foreign player Lao Abelenda. The occasion was graced by
Hamadan Holdings CEO Kamal Nasir, Khalid Rasheed Butt, Asad Elahi, Muhammad Zahid, Khalid Malik Puri (all from Hamadan), Samsung Marketing Manager Farhan Shafi, officers from Turkish Embassy in Pakistan, Lahore Polo Club President Malik Azam Hayat Noon, executive committee members, polo players and their families. At the prize distribution ceremony, the chief guests distributed prizes among the winners and top performers. Speaking on the occasion, FG/Din Polo Captain Mian Abbas Mukhtar said: “We are grateful to Allah Almighty that we successfully defended the Lahore Open Polo title this year as well. We prepared very hard and played like a unit, which helped us win the prestigious title. J
Gaza war exacting ‘very heavy price’ on Israeli army, Netanyahu says JERUSALEM AGENCIES
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Sunday to continue the Gaza war despite its “very heavy price” on the army. “This is a difficult morning, after a very difficult day of fighting in Gaza,” Netanyahu said during a Cabinet meeting in Tel Aviv. The Israeli army said Sunday that 14 soldiers were killed in clashes with Palestinian resistance fighters in the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours. The fatalities brought the number of soldiers killed since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict to 486 since Oct. 7, according to military figures. “The war is exacting a very heavy price on us; however, we have no choice but to continue to fight,” Netanyahu said. “We are continuing with full force until the end, until victory, until we achieve all of our goals: the destruction of Hamas, the return of our hostages and ensuring that Gaza will never again constitute a threat to the State of Israel,” he added. Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7,
killing at least 20,424 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring 54,036 others, according to health authorities in the enclave. Around 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed in the Hamas attack. The Israeli onslaught has left Gaza in ruins with half of the coastal territory’s housing stock damaged or destroyed, and nearly 2 million people displaced within the densely-populated enclave amid shortages of food and clean water. DUAL-NATIONAL ISRAELIS FIGHT ALONGSIDE ARMY IN GAZA: Meanwhile, Service in the Israeli army is not limited to citizens, but also to those with dual citizenship, even if they permanently reside abroad, and to what are known as “lone soldiers” who have no families. With the start of the war in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, the Israeli army called up reserve soldiers, including those permanently residing abroad. There are a significant number of Israelis who hold foreign citizenship, particularly in Europe and the US, but exact figures of those soldiers are unavailable. “Under the Israeli Security Service Law,
all Israeli citizens in Israel and abroad are required to enlist in the IDF (Israeli military), even if they hold dual nationality and they permanently reside abroad,” the Israeli Embassy in London said in a statement on its website on Nov. 30. “Israelis who live abroad need to file an application to determine their military status when they reach the age of 16 and 4 months, and before the age of 19,” it added. The embassy asked Israelis who wanted to enlist to send an email to the army’s representative in Europe. Military service is mandatory for men and women in Israel at the age of 18, after which soldiers are placed in reserve units. The Israeli newspaper Globes reported on Oct. 16 that Israel called up hundreds of thousands of reserve soldiers in response to attacks by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas, including American Israelis living in the US who returned to Israel on emergency flights. FOREIGNERS PARTICIPATING IN WAR ON GAZA: The participation of foreign citizens holding Israeli nationality in the war on the Gaza Strip has sparked reactions in recent days in France and South Africa. “I officially sent a letter to Minister of
Justice Eric Dupond-Moretti, asking him to use his authority to intervene so that investigations can be opened regarding 4,000 French people present on the front lines in Gaza within the Israeli army,” French lawmaker Thomas Portes wrote on Wednesday on X. “In the event of war crimes, I request their (the French citizens) presentation before French justice, and I will refer the matter to the public prosecutor under Article 40. “Regarding the war crimes committed by the Israeli army in Gaza and the West Bank alike, it is unacceptable for French citizens to participate in them,” he said. The Israeli and French governments have not commented on the statements by the French deputy. SOUTH AFRICA REJECTS ITS CITIZENS’ INVOLVEMENT IN ISRAELI ARMY: South African citizens serving in the Israeli army may face legal action in their home country, where President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the war being waged by Israel on the Gaza Strip as “genocide.” On Monday, the South African Foreign Ministry said it is “gravely concerned” about reports indicating that Israeli soldiers who are also South African citizens have joined
the Israeli army to fight in Gaza or are considering doing so. “Such action can potentially contribute to the violation of international law and the commission of further international crimes, thus making them liable for prosecution in South Africa,” it warned. South Africans must have government approval to fight legally in Israel, the ministry clarified, and warning that dual citizens of Israel risk losing their South African citizenship for engaging in a war that the republic “does not support or agree with.” LONE SOLDIERS: The Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported on Wednesday, citing Israeli military data that 2,507 new immigrants to Israel joined the forces in 2021 as “lone soldiers,” or soldiers who do not live with their families, including 59 from South Africa. “This does not count all Israeli soldiers who are dual South African citizens,” it said. There is no Israeli law that requires the renunciation of Israeli citizenship when obtaining another citizenship. Citizens may hold dual or multiple citizenship. Israel had 360,000 reserve soldiers mobilized at the start of the war, without specifying how many came from abroad.
Monday, 25 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD
NED University of Engineering and Technology hosts int’l seminar KARACHI
STAFF REPORT
International Seminar on “Forewarned is Forearmed: Construction Disputes Avoidance and Resolution”, was held on Saturday at NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi. The seminar was attended by over 200 participants including, construction industry professionals, law professionals, construction law experts, and students. The seminar was organized by NED University of Engineering and Technology, in collaboration with Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP) Karachi Centre, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Pakistan Branch, Asian Civil Engineering Coordination Council (ACECC) Future Leaders Forum. The participants of the seminar were welcomed by Prof. Dr. Asad Ur Rehman Khan, Dean Civil and Petroleum Engineering, NED University. This followed up by address of Barrister Mian Sheraz Javed, Chairman Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Pakistan Branch. Engr. Nasir Khan MBE, Principal a HKA, UK and Chair of Construction Industry Council UK (liability panel) made a technical presentation on "FOREWARND IS FOREARMED - Anticipating Challenges, Mitigating Risk", while Dr. Farrukh Arif. Associate professor at NED University presented his teams’ work regarding "Practices and effectiveness on arbitration as ADR mechanism in construction industry of Pakistan." Technical session was followed by Panel discussion moderated by Engr. Sohail Bashir, Chairman IEP Karachi Centre, with Barrister Mian Sheraz Javaid, Engr, Nasir Khan MBE, and Ms. Navin Merchant from Merchant Law Associates as the panelist. The panelist deliberated ways through which Construction Arbitration become a successful ADR mechanism in Pakistan.
ICMA, PITB sign MoU for corporate training
LAHORE STAFF REPORT
The MOU signing ceremony between the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants (ICMA) and the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) was held on Thursday, 21st December 2023 at the PITB Office. ICMA through its Corporate Training, Job Placement, R&D facility, and Advisory Boards will support PITB in getting the professional skills needed to understand the modern ways of doing business. ICMA has all the resources to provide Corporate Training and Professional Certifications to PITB. Under this MOU both organizations will leverage their strengths through the dissemination of corporate training, and collaborative research initiatives, and facilitate seamless HR processes, including job placement services. The collaboration is poised to bring about positive changes in the corporate landscape, empowering professionals with cuttingedge skills and fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth. Ms. Saima Sheikh, DG of Business Development & Training, PITB signed the MOU on behalf of PITB and Mr. Zia Mustafa, Chairman of Strategic Board signed, ICMA on behalf of ICMA The MOU Signing Ceremony was well attended by members of the Lahore Branch Council, Management of ICMA, and PITB. Mr. Muhammad Shahid, Chairman Lahore Branch Council, Mr. Hamid Zahoor Chairman MARCOM Committee, Ms. Munaza Elahi Director MARCOM ICMA, Mr Ayaz Mustafa, Joint Director ICMA Lahore, Mr. Muhammad Jehanzeb Akbar. Director Business Development & Training and Dr. Shaukat Salman, Lead Business Development PBIT.
Launching of EXIM bank to help boost country’s exports: PCMEA LAHORE
STAFF REPORT
The Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) welcoming the launching of the country's first Export-Import EXIM Bank has expressed the hope that the establishment of a special bank will increase exports and also help to get access to new international markets. In a joint statement issued on Sunday, Senior Vice Chairman of the Association Usman Ashraf, Chairman of Carpet Training Institute (CTI) Ijazur Rehman, Senior Central Leader Abdul Latif Malik, Senior Member Riaz Ahmed, Shahid Hasan Sheikh, Major (Rtd) Akhtar Nazir and Saeed Khan said that the availability of credit insurance and guarantee services will solve a major problem faced by exporters. They further said that extraordinary measures are inevitable to increase Pakistan's exports and the establishment of a special bank related to export and import is an important development in this direction. “First of all, we have to compete with the rival countries of the region for which the patronage of the government is indispensable and the governments of the countries of the region are giving concessions and reliefs to their exporters in various terms and this is the reason why there is a continuation in the growth of their exports,” they added.
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ETHIOPIAN PAVILION DRAWS OVERWHELMING NUMBER OF VISITORS AT KARACHI FESTIVAL NEWS
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AN IMPRESSIVE INFLUX OF OVER 25,000 VISITORS VISITED ETHIOPIAN PAVILION OVER THREE DAYS ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
HE Ethiopian Tourism Pavilion at the Karachi Feast received an overwhelming response, attracting an impressive influx of more than 25,000 visitors over the three-day extravaganza which concluded on Sunday. Minister for Youth Affairs, Sports and Culture Junaid Shah graced the concluding ceremony and lauded the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for introducing tourism and the culture of Ethiopia in Pakistan, according to a news release of the Embassy issued here. Governor of Sindh Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori and Ethiopian Ambassador in Pakistan Jemal Beker Abdula inaugurated the Ethiopian Tourism cubicle on Friday in the presence of a diverse audience, including members of the
diplomatic corps, government officials, business community, media, and representatives from civil society. Caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Madad Ali Sindhi graced the Ethiopian Pavilion with his presence at the Karachi Festival on
Saturday. An industrious endeavour by the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Pakistan emerged as a beacon of cultural richness and tourism allure during the Karachi Feast. The Ethiopian Tourism Pavilion gave a captivating display of Ethiopia’s multi-
Pak-Oman bilateral Naval Exercise Thamar Al Tayyib 2023 concludes
faceted culture, rich heritage, and unparalleled tourism offerings. The Ethiopian Coffee remained the centre of attraction, drawing enthusiastic Karachiites to savour the distinctive flavours of Ethiopia. The cultural performances by the Ethiopian Embassy elicited immense applause, further enhancing the immersive experience for the Karachi audience. Expressing his delight over the threeday spectacle, Ethiopian Ambassador Jemal Beker Abdula extended heartfelt gratitude to the Bukhari Group, organizers of the Karachi Feast, for their unwavering cooperation and support in promoting Ethiopia’s culture and tourism. He also expressed his gratitude for the people of Karachi who had shown immense love and strong attachment to Ethiopia which was the land of Bilal Habeshi and King Nejashi. This experience would serve as a bridge to connect them with their ancestral land, he added.
AIOU organizes Christmas celebrations for Christian workers ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
The 11th edition of Pakistan Navy - Royal Navy of Oman Bilateral Exercise Thamar Al Tayyib 2023 (TAT-23) was conducted in Gulf of Oman. This was the series of Thamar Al Tayyib exercises being conducted between Pakistan Navy and Royal Navy of Oman since 2002. PN Flotilla comprising of Pakistan Navy Ship ASLAT with embarked helicopter, Fast Attack Craft PNS QUWWAT
and PN Maritime Patrol Aircraft along with Special Operations Forces participated in the exercise. The bilateral exercise was conducted in two phases. Harbour phase included operational and tactical level table top discussions and exercise planning conferences. During the Sea Phase of the exercise, both the navies conducted range of advanced operational exercises encompassing major facets of maritime operations related to AntiAir, Anti-Surface Warfare and Counter Terrorism
exercises. The exercise also involved Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) by ships of both Navies with an aim to curb illicit activities at sea. Ex TAT23 provided an avenue to enhance mutual learning, improve inter-operability and opportunity for both navies to further hone their professional skills. Pakistan and Oman share a common mar-
itime area and both the navies closely cooperate with each other to maintain good order at sea. Regular conduct of bilateral Exercise Thamar Al Tayyib 2023 is a clear manifestation of strong fraternal and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Oman in general and Pakistan Navy and Royal Navy of Oman in particular.
Solid measures needed to boost foreign remittances: PIAF LAHORE
STAFF REPORT
Chairman Pakistan Industrial and Traders Associations Front (PIAF), Faheemur Rehman Saigol has said that foreign remittances flows are crucial which can support the country’s account balance amidst low volumes of foreign direct investment (FDI) and nominal growth of exports. In a statement issued on Sunday, he said that overseas Pakistanis living in Gulf should further be motivated to maintain an upward momentum in remittances, as they contributed more than 60 percent of the total inflows during last couple of months.
Faheemur Rehman Saigol said that remittances can help not only in financing the deficit in import payments but also in foreign debt repayments, suggesting the government to focus on structural reforms, which can revive Pakistan’s economic growth with major focus on incentives for overseas Pakistanis workers. He said that Pakistan has been witnessing a significant decline in workers’ remittances on a year-onyear basis, however it surged by 5.34% on a month-on-month basis, reaching a total of $2.21 billion, owing to several positive factors, including improved transparency and the implementa-
Exports keep declining as expensive gas, power hit industry: Anjum Nisar ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Chairman Businessman Pannel (BMP) of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Mian Anjum Nisar has said that the high gas and power prices have made the local as well as the export industry uncompetitive on the world market resulting in an 8 per cent monthly and 7 percent annual decline to $1.3 billion in November. In a statement issued on Sunday, he observed that the government would have to sustain its top focus on enhancing the share of renewable energy and hydropower projects to lower energy costs through an improved energy mix, although financing for such projects remained a key challenge. He said that enhancing the share of renewable energy (RE) and hydropower in the energy mix was the government’s priority and needed to be sustained over a longer horizon as it was the only way to provide affordable energy to the people. Quoting the figures, Mian Anjum Nisar said that in rupee terms, the country’s textile exports clocked in at Rs376bn, down by 7pc month-on-month but rose 19pc year-on-year owing to rupee depreciation against the dollar. Basic textiles witnessed a fall of 14pc MoM and a rise of 20pc YoY to $243m in November. The YoY substantial increase resulted from the 12 times YoY increase in raw cotton exports due to the
tion of stringent measures against dollar smuggling. These initiatives have helped create a more secure and regulated environment for remittance transactions. The PIAF Chairman said that remittances for Sept came in at $2.21 billion, according to data shared by the State Bank of Pakistan. This figure, while an improvement from last month’s $2.09 billion, was significantly lower than market expectations of $2.42.5 billion. On a month-on-month basis, remittances rose by 5.3%. However, they declined by 11.24% compared to last year, when remittances stood at $2.49 billion.
significant growth in cotton crop this year as compared to last year, which was greatly affected by floods. Value-added textile exports reached $920m, up by 6pc MoM while it fell by 12pc YoY. Towels remained the major contributor to the segment with 21pc MoM and 20pc YoY drop in exports. Knitwear saw a 5pc MoM and a 12pc YoY decline. Bedwear posted a 16pc MoM and 8pc YoY fall followed by 12pc YoY decline in readymade garments but a 5pc MoM rise. In 5MFY24, textile exports shrank by 6pc to $6.9bn from $7.4bn in the same period last year due to an economic slowdown and a reduced demand for textile products worldwide. The government has set a textile export target of $25bn. However, textile exports for FY24 will reach $17bn, up 3pc YoY. Pakistan’s Information Technology (IT) exports rose nine per cent month-on-month to $259 million in November, which was also higher than the 12-month average of $222m. The jump is due to a relaxation in the permissible retention limit by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), increasing it from 35pc to 50pc in the Exporters’ Specialised Foreign Currency Accounts, and the stable rupee which encourages IT companies to repatriate their foreign income and deposit it in local accounts. IT export number indicates the amount remitted back to Pakistan by technology companies.
Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) on Sunday organized a Christmas celebration function for Christian workers. While addressing the ceremony, Vice Chancellor AIOU, Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood said that all the prophets have taught love, tolerance, forgiveness and justice, but in today’s society, instead of brotherhood and love, we are living with hatred and disgust with each other. Dr Nasir said, let's pledge that we will not do what our conscience forbids us to do. He said that most of us have to change ourselves for the establishment of a beautiful society. The Chief Guest of the event was Father, Aamir Yaqoob of Khatun Fatima Church, Islamabad. Registrar AIOU, Raja Umar Yunis, Additional Registrar Bibi Yasmin, Director Coordination and Follow-up, Dr Syed Aamir Shah, representatives of the Employees Welfare Association and around 120 Christian employees of AIOU participated. Christmas cake was cut in the ceremony, all prayed for the development and prosperity of the country and good wishes were expressed for the Christian community on this occasion. Pastor Shiraz read selected verses from the Bible and highlighted the importance of inter-faith harmony, national security and welfare of the human society. The event was jointly organized by the Employees Welfare Association and Director Works.
CDA to develop bicycles lanes in capital city ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced a plan to implement the “Cycling as an Alternate Transport” project. CDA said in a statement that over 146 km of dedicated two-way bicycle lanes and 98 km of one-way bicycle lanes will be developed all over Islamabad, aiming to reduce carbon footprints and traffic congestion. Introduce Paddle and E-bike The Islamabad administration will develop 100% protected and connected lanes with 72 bicycle parking stations all over the federal capital. CDA Chairman Anwarul Haq said while presiding over a meeting that the objective of this project was to establish a secure citywide bicycle route network to promote safe and accessible cycling across Islamabad as well as an equitable commute option for citizens.
Cypher very ‘serious POLITICAL MOMENTUM BUILDS FOR POLLS issue’, merits thorough AS FILING OF NOMINATIONS CONCLUDES probe: Bilawal
Monday, 25 December, 2023
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ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
HE nomination paper submissions for the elections-2024 ended on Sunday, leading to heightened political activity in both major and smaller cities. The conclusion of the nomination paper submissions has triggered increased political fervor in provincial capitals like Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta, as well as in smaller cities. The ECP provided political parties with a five-day timeframe for filing nomination papers for the upcoming general elections. On Friday the electoral body extended the deadline for filing nomination papers by two days until Sunday, in response to appeals from various political parties requesting an extension in submission deadline. Once the deadline ends, the ECP is set
imran, nawaz file nominations to join polls race despite disqualification
ISLAMABAD: Two former Pakistani premiers on Friday submitted their nomination papers, aiming to make their way back to the parliament despite their disqualification. Imran Khan’s nomination papers have been submitted by his representative with a returning officer in his home district Mianwali to contest the Feb. 8 election from the National Assembly constituency NA-89 while Nawaz Sharif’s papers have been submitted by his legal team for NA-15 Mansehra of northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Suno News, a local broadcaster reported. Khan, who is currently in jail in the northeastern garrison city of Rawalpindi, was disqualified by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in August for five years following his conviction in a case that accused him of illegally purchasing and selling foreign gifts he received as prime minister. Khan approached the Islamabad High Court to set aside his disqualification, however, on Thursday high court rejected his plea, blocking his way to contest the upcoming election. MONITORING REPORT
to conduct scrutiny of the nomination papers from Monday and continue it till Dec 30 as per the commission’s updated sched-
Country’s future tied to Constitution, election date secure: Solangi ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Murtaza Solangi, explicitly stated that the election date has not been altered, there should be no uncertainty about it and the future of the country is aligned with the constitution and democracy. Speaking to the media following his participation in the “Second National Training of Journalists on China-Pakistan Relationship in the New Era; An Assessment of Ten Years of CPEC, and How is this relationship report in Pakistani media,” he emphasized that, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the country will be governed by elected representatives. The Election Commission, having the exclusive authority to set, modify, and extend election dates, has unequivocally confirmed that the general elections are scheduled for February 8, 2024. Emphasizing that the election date remains unaltered, there should be no room for doubt on this matter. Responding to a question he said that an extension in the tenure of the caretaker government is not possible in accordance with constitutional provisions. He remarked that Pakistan and China are steadfast, allweather friends, and the bilateral relations of both nations will thrive under the caretaker government.
ule. Over 167 candidates from three constituencies in Islamabad have submitted their nomination papers as the deadline for
the 2024 general elections has ended. On the final day, around 17 nomination papers were submitted for three constituencies in Islamabad. Tehreek-e-Insaf’s Shoaib Shaheen, Amir Mughal, Mustafain Kazmi and Babar Awan, along with Sardar Masroof, personally submitted their forms to enter the election race in these constituencies. PML-N’s Tarim Fazl Chaudhry, Pir Adil Gillani, former mayor Islamabad Sheikh Ansar Aziz, Zeeshan Naqvi,Ch Rifat Jared also submitted nomination papers. Transgender Nayab Ali, Minority candidate Samoa Younus also submitted nomination papers for Islamabad constituency. Noor Awan from the Muslim League (N), and Umar Awan from the People’s Party have submitted papers. This brings the total number of submitted papers to 167 from three constituencies in Islamabad.
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pakistan condemns ‘barbaric’ killing of 3 Kashmiris in indian army custody ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
The Pakistani Foreign Office (FO) has strongly condemned the “barbaric” killing of three individuals in the custody of the Indian army in held Kashmir and described the incident as a clear example of the neighboring country’s “relentless state terrorism” in the occupied valley. The FO’s statement comes in response to a report by the Associated Press, which detailed the alleged torture and subsequent deaths of the three Kashmiris while in Indian army custody. The report also highlighted the widespread anger triggered by videos purportedly showing the torture of detained civilians, as well as the subsequent internet shutdown in the region. The FO’s condemnation underscores the ongoing tensions and human rights violations in the region, emphasizing the need for ac-
countability and a peaceful resolution to the longstanding dispute in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The incident in question occurred in the wake of an attack on two army vehicles in Poonch, after which the army arrested at least eight civilians for interrogation According to the report, the bodies of the three individuals showed marks of severe torture, and the families of the detained individuals reported that the other five were moved to an army hospital after being severely tortured. In a statement issued today, the FO said that it strongly condemned the “barbaric custodial killing” of the three Kashmiris. “The slain civilians were tortured to death at a camp of the Indian occupation army. A purported video clip of Indian personnel stripping three men and sprinkling chilli powder on them is viral on social media,” the FO said. “The incident, once again, ex-
poses India’s relentless state terrorism in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The perpetrators of these custodial killings must be held accountable,” it added. “India’s brutal occupation is the root cause of all major issues in IIOJK. The Kashmiri people must realise their inalienable right to self-determination, as enshrined in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” it said. Additionally, videos purportedly showing the torture of the detained civilians spread online, leading to widespread anger among the local population. This prompted authorities to cut off internet services on smart devices in Poonch and Rajouri as a tactic to prevent potential protests and discourage the dissemination of the videos. These details further underscore the severity and impact of the alleged custodial killings and the subsequent response from the authorities.
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LARKANA
STAFF REPORT
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday said the cypher case against former prime minister Imran Khan was a very “serious issue” which warranted a thorough investigation since it was a “major national security breach”. “The cypher case is very serious and I can’t favour political retribution against a politician because our party and family have suffered and we would not want the same for our opponents. But the cipher case is a very serious issue,” Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari declared while talking to the media in Larkana after submitting his nomination papers. Bilawal said it was visible that Imran was getting “relief” in the case. The cypher case pertains to a diplomatic document that the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) charge sheet alleges was never returned by Imran. The PTI has long held that the document contained a threat from the United States to oust Imran as prime minister. On Friday, the Supreme Court had granted Imran and ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi bail in the case. Citing example of former US president Donald Trump, who has been indicted over his handling of classified documents after leaving office, Bilawal said the US government had raided Trump’s home to retrieve the documents. “Pakistan’s classified documents are the property of the state. We face a national security threat if these documents are somehow leaked. So there should be a full investigation on the cypher and the reality should be before the public and the nation since this was a major national security breach,” he said. Bilawal said that based on his experience as a foreign minister, every cipher had only limited copies — one for the FM, one for the premier and sometimes for security agencies if required. He said all the copies in the cipher case had been accounted for except for the prime minister’s copy. “Khan sahib has admitted on television that he misplaced it and the day of his arrest, that cipher was leaked to the internal media. This is a very serious issue and the court should take it as seriously as any other issue on which questions of national security are raised,” he said. Bilawal said the government should pursue a thorough investigation on the matter and a judicial inquiry should also be ordered to determine the facts of the case. On a question about an alliance with the PTI, Bilawal said the PPP would contest the February 8 general election on the basis of its own strength and there was no alliance as yet with any other party. However, he did say there was “ample scope” for the PPP to work together with political workers since “we are the only political party that believes in democracy and not political vendettas.” Bilawal said he had submitted his nomination papers from Larkana, Lahore and Qambar Shahdadkot, adding that the PPP would fully participate in the elections due to the current issues plaguing the country.
Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk