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Pakistan’s rice exports PAKISTAN, CHINA STAND TOGETHER TO surge by over 76.5% in SAFEGUARD COMMON INTERESTS: WEIDONG first six months

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Sunday, 21 January, 2024 I 9 Rajab, 1445

SAYS CHINA WOULD CONTINUE ITS SUPPORT TO PAKISTAN AGAINST ANY THREAT OF TERRORISM

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FOREIGN SECRETARY SAYS CPEC REMAINS FOREMOST IN ALL-WEATHER SINO-PAK STRATEGIC COOPERATIVE RELATIONSHIP

STAFF REPORT

HINESE Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong on Saturday said Pakistan and China stood together to safeguard their common interests and would continue to support each other on issues of significance.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong was speaking at the inauguration of a photo exhibition and CPEC library at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here. He said China would continue its support to Pakistan against any threat of terrorism.

The minister said that as iron brother and trusted friend, China attached special importance to Pakistan in its foreign policy and looked forward to further strengthening strategic ties between the two countries.

Thanking Pakistan’s support to China on its core issues, he reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and for its economic development, progress and prosperity.

He appreciated Pakistan for its support for the One China principle, adding friendship of the two countries was timetested and had across-the-board support among their people. He said he had brought books from China for the CPEC library including books written by President Xi Jinping on governance and the ancient Chinese culture.

Sharing memories of his stay in Pakistan as ambassador in the last decade, he said the library was a reminder of the strength of the strategic partnership

which was manifested through the CPEC projects. The CPEC project was inaugurated by the Chinese President along with the leadership of Pakistan in 2015, he recalled, adding the leadership launched projects across Pakistan by signing more than 50 agreements.

The Chinese minister expressed his happiness over the completion of various projects under CPEC including highways, power plants and industrial parks, saying it was all made possible due to the strategic guidance of the leadership. He said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

by China was undertaken to bring shared prosperity to humanity.

“Through BRI, China envisioned to bring the countries together to face the current economic challenges and to turn challenges into opportunities,” he

PML-N to vehemently oppose attempts for polls postponement, says Shehbaz LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made it clear that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) will vehemently oppose any attempts to postpone the February 8 general elections. In an interview with a private news channel, Shehbaz emphasized the critical need for proceeding with the electoral process without delay, stating that any postponement would be detrimental to Pakistan’s democracy.

Shehbaz Sharif, who serves as the president of PML-N, highlighted the ongoing election campaigns by various parties across the country, underscoring the urgency of conducting the nationwide polls as scheduled. He also credited the previous governments led by his elder brother, Nawaz Sharif, for significant achievements, including Pakistan’s nuclear power status.

Highlighting the party’s election strategy, Shehbaz Sharif mentioned that Nawaz Sharif personally interviewed candidates and would be the party’s candidate for the premiership. However, he refrained from confirming the restoration of his previous position as the Chief Minister of Punjab, stating that the decision would be made after consultation with Nawaz Sharif following the election victory.

Moreover, Shehbaz Sharif commented on the PMLN’s narrative “Vote Ko Izzat Do” (Respect the Vote), attributing it to the party’s commitment to ending load shedding within five years. Additionally, he addressed legal cases against the PML-N and its leadership, as well as the need for unity among stakeholders for the country’s better interests. Commenting on a large number of cases against the former ruling party, PTI, and its leadership, Shehbaz said Imran would never be in jail if the May 9 riots had not happened.

He termed May 9 events ‘betrayal’ and a “conspiracy’ hatched by the PTI founder against the armed forces. He urged all stakeholders to maintain unity in the better interests of the country. A few days ago, Shehbaz claimed that it would “surprise” everyone in the February 8 election, as the date for the much-awaited contest nears and electioneering intensifies almost across the country.

Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 203 I 8 Pages I Islamabad Edition

stressed. The deputy foreign minister had arrived in Islamabad to attend the CPEC Joint Working Group meeting on Sunday.

In his remarks, Foreign Secretary Syrus Sajjad Qazi said CPEC remained foremost in the all-weather strategic cooperative relationship of Pakistan and China.

Welcoming Vice Foreign Minister Sun to Pakistan, the Foreign Secretary said that the Pakistan-China friendship enjoyed complete political, institutional and public support in Pakistan. Underscoring the salience of bilateral friendship for regional peace and stability, he expressed Pakistan’s readiness to further expand and strengthen bilateral ties in all areas of cooperation.

He said the China-Pakistan relationship was exemplified by commonality of

interests. He invited other countries to invest in the industry, agriculture, science and technology projects under the CPEC. The CPEC project was a tribute to the wisdom of leaders of different generations who contributed to strengthening of bilateral ties between Pakistan and China, he remarked.

The shared vision of CPEC was meant to bring economic prosperity, regional connectivity and industrial growth, the Secretary added. Later, the Chinese Vice Foreign Minister and Foreign Secretary inaugurated the CPEC library and exhibition.

Photos of various CPEC projects including Friendship Hospital, Vocational School and International Airport in Gwadar and East Bay expressway were put on display. The East Bay expressway in the Gwadar region was an important infrastructure project connecting the port and free industrial zone with the national highway network.

CHINESE VICE FM ARRIVES IN ISLAMABAD FOR KEY CPEC MEETING: Earlier, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister (FM) Sun Weidong arrived in Pakistan on Saturday to participate in the fourth meeting of the CPEC-Joint Working Group on International Cooperation and Coordination scheduled to be held here in Islamabad tomorrow (Sunday).

Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi will co-chair the meeting with the Chinese Vice Foreign Minister, according to a Radio Pakistan’s report.

Additionally, Sun Weidong is expected to meet with the senior leadership of the country.

Impasse continues between FM, IRS over FBR overhaul g

DR SHAMSHAD’S PLAN INVOLVES DISSOLVING FBR AND CREATING TWO NEW TAX DEPARTMENTS, GIVEN TO BOARDS HEADED BY PRIVATE INDIVIDUALS PROFIT

MONITORING DESK

A stalemate persists between Caretaker Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar and the Inland Revenue Service (IRS) over the proposed restructuring of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Despite a meeting at FBR Headquarters aimed at resolving differences, both sides maintained their positions, raising the possibility of military establishment intervention to resolve the deadlock, as reported

by Express Tribune.

Dr. Akhtar’s plan, which involves dissolving the FBR and creating two new tax departments, given to boards headed by private individuals. The IRS rejected Akhtar’s presented model along with the division of FBR into two departments, Federal Board of Inland Revenue and Customs Board of Revenue.

The minister’s insistence on private individuals leading the oversight role of the two new tax departments emerging from the FBR restructuring is a point of contention.

During a visit to the FBR Headquarters, Dr. Akhtar failed to sway the IRS to her viewpoint. The meeting ended without any resolution, and sources suggest the matter might now be referred to the military establishment for intervention.

The proposal for the FBR restructuring, approved by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) on January 3rd, included digitalization initiatives. However, differences emerged over who should head the new boards, with the inter-ministerial meeting suggesting the Secretary Revenue Division for the role, a suggestion not reflected in the finance minister’s draft.

As the two-week deadline for submitting a summary to the cabinet lapsed, no consensus was reached.

Dr. Akhtar’s version of the summary, which she sent to the FBR chairman, diverges significantly from the chairman’s version, particularly on who should chair the oversight boards.

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RICE EXPORTS LIKELY TO MAKE A RECORD OF OVER 3.5BN DOLLARS THIS YEAR PROFIT

GHULAM ABBAS

Driven by a bumper crop and robust international demand, Pakistan’s rice exports for the first half of this financial year have soared by over 76%, surpassing expectations. According to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), from July to December 2023, the country exported rice valued at $1.63 billion, a remarkable increase from $927 million during the same period in 2022, reflecting a growth of 76.5%. Exporters anticipate that the overall export of rice could reach a historic $3.5 billion, considering the current surge in various rice varieties. The export figures include 2,570,727 metric tons (MT) of rice, compared to 1,732,884 MT during the same period in 2022, indicating a substantial 48.35% increase in volume. Basmati rice accounted for 318,284 MT, representing superior quality, while 2,252,442 MT comprised other rice varieties.

The rice sector in Pakistan holds significant importance in terms of export earnings, domestic employment, rural development, and poverty reduction. Rice is a vital food and cash crop, contributing 3.0% to agriculture’s value added and 0.6% to GDP, making it the second main staple food crop after wheat. But what is the reason behind this sudden appreciation in the export of rice?

Export Market Insights: Pakistan currently exports $1.4 billion worth of rice globally, while the world’s total rice imports amount to $19.2 billion. Notably, semi-milled or wholly milled rice presents a substantial opportunity for additional exports worth $715.3 million.

Geographically, the demand for rice is fragmented, with major importers situated in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. China stands out as a significant importer, representing a quarter of total trade, and there is a rising demand for rice in African countries like Nigeria. The global rice trade predominantly revolves around two main products: fragrant rice and nonfragrant rice. Basmati rice, highly demanded in the European Union and the Middle East, is mainly produced and exported by India and Pakistan.

Impact of Indian Export Ban: The ban on Indian rice exports has proven beneficial for Pakistani exporters. Being the holder of 40% market share, the ban on the export of all rice except high-end basmati, presents a golden opportunity for Pakistan. Buyers from Africa and the Far East, who previously purchased Indian rice, have shifted their preference to the Pakistani market.

Exporters anticipate this trend to persist until there is a relaxation in India’s rice export policy.

Public experience nationwide disruption to social media amid PTI virtual event CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The finance minister argues for independent domain experts to chair the Customs Board and the Inland Revenue Board, while the Secretary Revenue Division would be a member of both. The Secretary Revenue Division, on the other hand, wants his dissenting opinion presented to the federal cabinet.

The proposed restructuring, according to the FBR chairman, would necessitate amendments to tax statutes and related laws. Concerns have been raised about potential legal challenges to the restructuring, which could impact revenue collection efforts.

Dr. Akhtar’s version suggests that customs and inland revenue organizations will be led by director generals appointed by the government, with financial and operational autonomy. These organizations would not be attached to the revenue division and would instead be accountable to the oversight boards.

This impasse comes against the backdrop of a 2020 World Customs Organization survey, indicating that 73% of countries have separate Customs Administrations, while 27% integrate Customs with Inland Revenue.

Internet monitors – Netblocks and Downdetector on Saturday reported a nationwide disruption to social media platforms, coinciding with a virtual event of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. The users across the country also complained about the disruption of social media platforms – X/facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

“Confirmed: Live metrics show a nation-scale disruption to social media platforms across Pakistan, including X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube,” the internet tracking agency said at 7:12pm.

It added that “the incident comes as persecuted opposition leader Imran Khan’s political party, PTI, launches its second virtual gathering.” Responding to the tracking agency’s confirmation, the PTI said: “Shame on the caretakers that are causing damage to Pakistanis only.”

The party said its virtual event would begin at 8pm.

Similarly, Downdetector – an internet monitoring service, the platforms, especially the website versions have been down shortly after 6pm local time. Users in major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad complained about their inability to connect to social media sites including X — formerly known as Twitter — Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and streaming giant YouTube.

Additionally, complaints regarding sluggish internet services surfaced among the affected users.

‘Technical fault resolved, internet services restored’

Accountability court freezes Malik Riaz’s assets

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COMMERCIAL BANKS DIRECTED TO FREEZE THEIR ACCOUNTS AND NOT ALLOW TRANSACTIONS OR WITHDRAWALS TILL FURTHER ORDERS PROFIT

AHMAD AHMADANI

An Accountability Court of Islamabad has ordered to freeze the properties, bank accounts, and vehicles of property tycoon Malik Riaz Hussain and his son Ahmed Ali Riaz, in a 190-million-pound corruption case and sought compliance report be submitted within seven days.

The accountability judge Mohammad Bashir issued the order to freeze movable and immovable properties, bank accounts and vehicles of proclaimed offenders Malik Riaz Hussain, a Pakistani real estate tycoon, and Ahmed Ali Riaz son of Malik Riaz Hussain.

The Accountability Court ordered revenue officers across the Country to seize the offenders’ immovable properties. The concerned Excise and Taxation Officers (ETOs) were ordered to ensure vehicles are not transferred to the proclaimed offenders or any other person on their behalf.

The Commercial Banks were directed to freeze their accounts and not allow transactions or withdrawals till further orders.

It was also stated in the court order that the accused persons Malik Riaz and Ahmed Ali Riaz are declared as proclaimed offenders vide Order dated 06-01-2024 after completion of all proceedings / proclamation notices, as they are not appearing before the Court.

It was further stated that their vehicles shall be “seized by the NAB Authority through Additional Director / Incharge RMDC NAB.” “Additional Director / Incharge RMDC NAB is hereby appointed as Receiver of the immovable properties attached today, to take possession of the property in accordance with law, and to receive the rents of rented properties, and to prohibit the payment of rent or delivery of property to proclaimed offenders or any person on behalf of the proclaimed offenders. Compliance report be submitted within seven days,” said the order of the accountability court issued on January 12, 2024.

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IRAN, PAKISTAN NEED TO MITIGATE DIFFERENCES TO AVOID ANY FUTURE CLASH: EXPERTS

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Staff RepoRt

RAN and Pakistan have preferred rationality over emotions, which will strengthen their historical brotherly ties otherwise, their adversaries could manipulate the situation.

These were the views expressed by experts at a meeting hosted by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) to understand the situation around the unfortunate escalation on Pakistan’s western frontier.

The meeting was attended by Khalid Rahman, chairman IPS, prominent security analyst Brigadier (r) Said Nazir, and Syed Abrar Hussain, Pakistan’s former ambassador to Afghanistan and vice chairman IPS, among others.

The participants unanimously said Islamabad’s position was justified, stressing that Tehran should have pursued alternative diplomatic and political channels to address any concerns. Both friendly countries must work to activate peaceful problem-solving mechanisms to avoid a worst-case scenario. Recognizing the shared threat of terrorism, the speakers

emphasized the need for a collaborative strategic framework and active security cooperation grounded in mutual trust.

They expressed happiness that Islamabad and Tehran agreed to de-escalate unconditionally and restore full diplomatic ties.

Despite internal and external sensitivities, Pakistan has historically maintained warm relations with Iran, successfully navigating the complexities to balance their ties. These cordial

relations must be maintained in the future.

Both countries must realize that any conflict between them will divert global attention away from the war in Gaza, ultimately favoring Israel and its allies and proving harmful to peace and stability in the Middle East.

The speakers said while the clouds of war are already looming over the Middle East, given Israeli aggression against Gaza and elsewhere, any misadventure

could draw the conflict to South Asia.

This would only benefit the forces that want to keep this region unstable for their interests.

Therefore, the speakers said, both brotherly countries must avoid miscalculations, come closer, and resolve their issues through dialogue, which is also crucial for their internal stability, given their socio-political fault lines.

The experts lauded the Chinese approach vis-à-vis the escalation between Iran and Pakistan. They reiterated that Beijing has the potential to play as a balancer to promote peace and stability in South Asia, which is as vital for Chinese stakes in the region as for any other regional force. In his concluding remarks, Khalid Rahman emphasized that creating a war-like environment in the region benefits no one but external entities. However, Pakistan’s calculated and proportionate response shows maturity in decision-making and a preference for a measured approach over impulsive reactions.

He lauded the leadership of Islamabad and Tehran for their approach to maintaining peace and resolving issues diplomatically while calling for a focus on diplomacy to de-escalate tensions.

Dense fog disrupts 516 flights in 19 days KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Dense fog continues to blanket Pakistan, disrupting air travel and causing widespread inconvenience for passengers. A staggering 45 flights were canceled due to poor visibility, with passengers forced to rebook or find alternative transportation. This brings the total number of canceled flights in the first 19 days of the year to a staggering 516, highlighting the severity of the ongoing weather situation.

Sialkot was the worst-hit city on Thursday, with

Chinese delegation to share expertise during Engineering and Healthcare Show ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

A high-level Chinese delegation, consisting of renowned engineers and healthcare professionals are participating in the third edition of Engineering and Healthcare Show in Lahore. The Chinese delegation is expected to share their expertise and knowledge during the event, Muhammad Irfan Commercial Counselor, Consultant General of Guangzhou, told China Economic Net (CEN). The show features various exhibitions, seminars and workshops that will highlight the latest technologies and innovations in engineering and healthcare. From state-of-the-art medical equipment to groundbreaking engineering projects, attendees will have the opportunity to witness the future of these industries”, he stated. “Engineering and Healthcare Show is the flagship event of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan. This year, more than 180 leading manufacturers of Engineering and Healthcare sectors are exhibiting their products.

Besides, more than 500 foreign delegates from 50+ countries including 150 plus Chinese companies are participating in the exhibition. It will open endless opportunities for the Engineering and healthcare sector of the country”, he added. Dr. Jian Peng, the leader of the Chinese delegation from Guangzhou and Honorary Investment Counselor, expressed his excitement about the show and the potential for collaboration between Pakistan and China. “Pakistan has shown remarkable progress in the fields of engineering and healthcare, and we are eager to explore opportunities for mutual growth and development.” It is to be noted that the three-day Engineering and Healthcare Show has attracted thousands of professionals, students, and enthusiasts from across Pakistan.

Lawyer arrested for chanting anti-Nawaz slogans LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

A lawyer who chanted anti-Nawaz slogans during Maryam Aurangzeb’s court appearance has been apprehended by the police on Saturday. The AntiTerrorism Court in Lahore conducted proceedings related to the case of an alleged anti-state speech by the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader, Maryam Aurangzeb. The lawyer, identified as Atiqur Rahman, was taken into custody for shouting slogans in support of the former chairman of Tehreek-e-Insaf outside the court premises. The incident occurred as Maryam Aurangzeb arrived at the Anti-Terrorism Court.

Despite repeated warnings from the police, Atiqur Rahman, along with other activists, continued to chant “Chor Chor” (thief) as a form of protest. The lawyer had come to the court to appear as an accused in the May 9 tragedy cases.

Accountability Court judge Bashir seeks medical leave until retirement

ISLAMABAD: Accountability Court Judge Muhammad Bashir has requested medical leave until his retirement, citing health issues. According to media reports, concerns about the health of Accountability Court Judge Muhammad Bashir have come to light as he has requested medical leave until his retirement.

Judge Muhammad Bashir is set to retire on March 14, 2024. Sources indicate that Judge Muhammad Bashir has submitted a written request to the Islamabad High Court and the Ministry of Law and Justice for leave from January 24 to March 14. Staff RepoRt

flights from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Dubai, Doha, and Muscat all being diverted to Lahore due to the thick fog. The Jeddah-Lahore flight PF 717 had to wait for an hour before it could land in Karachi, further adding to the travel woes of passengers.

Flights to Dubai, Multan, Dammam, Kuwait City, and Karachi were all shifted to Islamabad, while several other routes, including Sialkot-Sharjah, Sialkot-Doha, Lahore-Karachi, Lahore-Sharjah, Lahore-Jeddah, Islamabad-Karachi, Multan-Jeddah-Dubai, KarachiDammam-Muscat, and Jeddah-Multan-Gwadar, were canceled altogether. The ongoing fog disruptions have

left many passengers stranded and frustrated. Social media is abuzz with complaints about canceled flights, missed connections, and long delays. Some passengers have reported being stuck at airports for hours on end, with little to no information from airlines about when their flights might resume.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that the fog is likely to persist in the coming days, raising concerns about further flight disruptions.

Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates and to allow extra time for travel during this period.

Sunday, 21 January, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

China’s over 800 million 5G users driving economic output ISLAMABAD agencieS

China now has over 800 million 5G users with 5G directly driving more economic output in China last year, the China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) said. China had over 805 5G users nationwide by 2023, driving total economic output of 1.86 trillion yuan (US$262.0 billion) last year, a 29-percent growth from the previous year, MIIT officials said during a broadcast conference. Technology including 5G and the industrial Internet are deeply integrating various industries, which boost digital transformation and economic structure upgrades in China, Shanghai Daily reported. In 2023, China’s industrial Internet core industry value reached 1.35 trillion yuan, covering 49 economic categories nationwide, Zhao Zhiguo, MIIT’s chief engineer, told the conference. It boosts green and low-carbon economy, promotes consumption upgrading, safeguards production safety, and fuels digital transformation, Zhao added. MIIT will also push high-quality development for the automotive industry, with measures on favorable taxes, support for innovation in the chip, battery and autonomous driving sectors, organizing tests for vehicle-road-cloud connections and prevention of supply-over-demand risks, MIIT officials said. The number of China’s 5G base station reached 3.377 million by the end of 2023, laying a solid foundation for network construction, the China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) said.

China owned nearly 40 percent of the standard essential patents for 5G technology, leading the world, said Zhao Zhiguo, chief engineer of the ministry. The 5G applications have been integrated into 71 national economic categories with over 94,000 applications and more than 29,000 virtual networks launched last year, according to Zhao. China continued to develop green and low-carbon 5G networks in 2023 jointly, Ecns reported. According to estimates, 5G will drive a total economic output of 1.86 trillion yuan ($258.5 billion) in 2023, an increase of 29 percent compared to 2022.

PML-Q issues party tickets for NA, PA seats LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Masood felicitates Khydeeja Alam over appointment as ED of CAPIAA WASHINGTON

Staff RepoRt

Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, Masood Khan felicitating Ms Khydeeja Alam for her appointment as Executive Director of the California APIA Commission has said that the achievements of Pakistani-American diaspora were a matter of pride and honor for Pakistan.

He remarked this during virtual meeting with Ms. Khydeeja Alam, who has been appointed as Executive Director of The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA), the only ethnic commission established by California State Law to address the needs, issues, and concerns of Asian American and Pacific Islander American communities.

Massod Khan said, “You (Khydeeja) bring a fresh perspective and young dynamic leadership, and we look forward to working with you in building bridges between Pakistan and the United States.”

It should be mentioned here that Ms. Alam was the first Pakistani American to hold this important position representing the interests of over 6 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who call California home. Khydeeja said, “This opportunity exemplifies and represents everything that I hold near and dear to my heart, I want to give back to my community.”

Recalling her journey, Ms Alam said that her family migrated to Hollister, California from Pakistan in 1996 when she was 13.

“Before joining the Commission, I served as the Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy for Catalyst California, and later as Director of External and Legislative Affairs at California Volunteers, Office of the Governor. Currently, I am also serving as Board President of CAIR Sacramento Valley/Central California,” she continued.

Khydeeja said, “I plan to focus on anti-Asian hate, spearhead outreach efforts to address issues related to cultural language sensitivity with state agencies and prioritize uplifting communities across California.”

I also want to include Islamophobia and antisemitism in that work, she added.

While appreciating her passion and dedication to public service, Ambassador Masood Khan invited Ms Alam to visit Pakistan along with entrepreneurs, tech experts, investors, and lawmakers from her constituency.

“Pakistan offers plenty of investment opportunities in IT, agriculture, mineral extraction, energy and tourism sector. We would welcome strong business connections between investors in Pakistan and their counterparts in California,” said the Ambassador.

Masood Khan also highlighted the massive investments in Pakistan by the companies based in Silicon Valley urging upon further strengthening of cooperation in the field of IT between Pakistan and the United States.

“We share your happiness, and we look forward to working with you,” said the Ambassador in his concluding remarks.

Three prisoners die in Kot Lakhpat Jail Lahore under ‘mysterious circumstances’ LAHORE/BHAKKAR Staff RepoRt

Three prisoners incarcerated in Kot Lakhpat Jail, Lahore died under mysterious circumstances in a single day, jail sources said on Saturday.

According to police sources, the prisoners died due to illness.

The deceased prisoners were identified as 24-yearold Naveed Ahmed, 36-year-old Ghulam Rasool and 40-year-old Adnan.

According to a Human Rights Watch report,

Pakistan has one of the world’s most overcrowded prison systems. As of 2022, many of its 91 jails and prisons were more than 100 percent over capacity. Severe overcrowding has compounded existing health deficiencies in prisons, leaving inmates vulnerable to communicable diseases and unable to access medicine and treatment for even basic health needs.

Poor health care intersects with range of other rights violations against prisoners, including torture and mistreatment, and is a key symptom of a broken criminal justice system.

Establishing harmony-based society holds key significance: Aneeq KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed has said that establishing a harmony based society, based on patience, love and brotherhood holds key significance.

Addressing ‘Interfaith Harmony Conference’ organized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony at St. Patrick’s Cathedral here on Saturday, the minister urged the people to end strictness in their behaviours and come forward with the message of brotherhood for a liveable society.

Alluding to the minorities, Aneeq Ahmed said, ‘We will work jointly.’ He said we all agreed to make the society a better place to live in. He further said that no religion taught killings and bloodshed but they taught love and peace.

The law had great importance and it played a significant role in society, he said adding, ‘We have faith

in all heavenly holy books and the Holy Quran is the custodian of all these books.’

The minister said that non-Muslim brothers had rendered great services and beautified the metropolis.

Vehemently condemning the Jaranwala incident, the Minister said that the incident should not have taken place. He said that the Ulema opened the doors of the mosques to their Christian brothers soon after the incident of Jaranwala to protect them.

He said, on the other hand, that 150 Christians were killed in Manipur of India and the whole of India did not come on the same page to criticise the Manipur incident but the entire Pakistan stood with the Christian community on Jaranwala incident and condemned it.

Aneeq Ahmed said, ‘We (Muslims) and you (minorities) are united.’

On the occasion, he appreciated the idea of conducting workshops and exchange programmes on interfaith harmony. He said that many programmes on interfaith harmony were in the pipeline.

Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) on Saturday issued party tickets on National Assembly and provincial assemblies seats for general elections 2024. PML-Q has issued 17 tickets to candidates contesting for NA seats, 32 for Punjab Assembly seats, four each for Balochistan and KP assemblies and 10 for Sindh Assembly. The party has failed to make seat adjustment with any party for 2024 elections. On Friday, Chaudhry Salik Hussain said Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) has decided against seat adjustment with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) for the general elections 2024 over ‘dual standards’. The decision was taken in an emergency meeting of the PML-Q held with Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain in the chair.

PPP, PTI-P alliance in NA-44 DI Khan poses threat to JUI-F in general elections PESHAWAR

Staff RepoRt

Dera Ismail Khan: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-InsafParliamentarian (PTI-P) and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) have reached seat adjustment in NA-44, creating a potential opposition to Jamiat Ulema-eIslam (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman in the upcoming elections 24. According to sources, Pervaiz Khattakled PTI-P decided on seat adjustment with PPP in two constituencies of DI Khan including NA-44 and PKahead of the election 2024. Sources said that PTI-P will support the PPP candidate Faisal Karim Kundi whereas PPP will support Ehtisham Javed Akbar in the general elections 2024. Ehtisham Javed, who was elected on the PTI ticket in previous elections will now contest on the PTI-P seat. Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarians (PTI-P) head Pervaiz Khattak had ruled out possibility of seat adjustment with any political party in general elections 2024. It is pertinent to mention here that former Defense Minister Pervez Khattak launched a new political party under the name of PTIParlimentians (PTI-P). Former chief Minister Mahmood Khan along with 57 former PTI lawmakers including former provincial minister, Ishtiaq, Shaukat Ali, Dr. Aasia Aad, Somi Falaknaz, Ziaullah Bangash, Ibrahim Khattak, Ahmed Hussain Shah, Javed Akbar and others are also part of the PTI-P.

Massive hike in driving license fee challenged in LHC LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

The notification regarding the increase in driving license fees has been challenged in the Lahore High Court. The petition has been filed on behalf of a citizen named Rana Ali Hasnain. The petition has made the caretaker Punjab government, the Punjab IGP and others parties. It has pleaded that increasing the driving licence fees is against the law. The caretaker government does not have the power to increase prices by levying additional taxes, it adds.

The caretaker government has been inducted to run the day-to-day affairs of the province, and it does not have the authority to increase prices, the petition pleads further. The Lahore High Court has been requested to annul the notification of increase in driving license fees. The petitioner asks the high court to order the authorities to issue licenses at the old rates. On January 16, the government implemented a significant increase in fees across all categories. The most notable change came for learner permits, which ballooned from a mere Rs60 to a hefty Rs500. This represented a staggering 733% increase, potentially deterring some from pursuing their driving dreams.

The regular motorcycle licenses now cost Rs980 for a year, a jump from Rs580. Cars and jeeps face an even steeper climb, with their annual fee rising to Rs2,280 from Rs1,180.

WEF PROVIDES A WINDOW TO PV INDUSTRY FOR PAKISTAN AND ENTIRE WORLD: ZHONG BAOSHEN Sunday, 21 January, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

NEWS

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Staff RepoRt

HE World Economic Forum, WEF 2024 held in Davos provided a window to PV industry, not only for Pakistan but the entire world, said Zhong Baoshen President of global leading renewable energy company LONGi. In an interview to China Economic Net (CEN), he emphasized, “It is necessary for us to make our voice heard on this global platform, WEF – to let the world know that the innovation of Chinese companies can promote the global energy transformation process and help the decarbonization transformation.”

“Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG7) is key to achieve all United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for a more sustainable future. The decrease of solar power costs is the very foundation for energy equity at the global scale, especially to the underdeveloped regions,” Dennis She, Vice

President of LONGi, pointed out during the Davos Summit.

Not long ago, LONGi promised to provide photovoltaic systems and solutions to Pakistan starting from 2024, providing safe, reliable and clean energy for public facilities of refugees and host communities, so that these places can study, work and operate businesses and other activities.

It is reported that over 780 million people, about 10% of world’s population, live in off-grid regions, most in the SubSaharan Desert areas.

At the same time, since China surpassed Germany for the first time in 2013 to become the world’s largest photovoltaic application market, China’s photovoltaic industry has maintained a momentum of continuous growth.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the world’s installed renewable energy capacity will grow rapidly in 2023, soaring to more than 440GW, a year-on-year increase of 107GW, becoming

the largest increase in history.

In December, 2023, LONGi’s Jiaxing Production Base in China’s East Zhejiang Province has been recognized by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as a Global Lighthouse Factory.

This recognition was the world’s first solar module manufacturing base joining WEF’s Global Lighthouse Network (GLN).

LONGi’s Jiaxing Factory was one of the 21 new Global Lighthouse Factories recognized in 2023.

Haroon Ur Rashid Tabassum: A prolific writer SYED AFSAR SAJID

Prof Dr Haroon Ur Rashid Tabassum is a well-known writer, socio-literary activist, and media man. In the year 2023, he authored and published as many as six books in Urdu: three on Iqbal and the remaining three on miscellaneous literary topics plus reviews of books.

Dr. Tabassum writes in a lucid, racy, and allusive style. He brings all of his thought (that ‘never dies’, as espoused by famed diasporic writer Javed Amir in his book of that title), experience and observation to bear upon his creative work which eventually tends to enhance its reading clientele. Though he has a prolific pen, his writings do rarely suggest that he writes in hurry and is thus prone to override the niceties of expression or the requisites of syntax. It would be interesting to note that Dr. Tabassum has so far brought out 155 literary publications besides some 27 related to curricula.

Hilal-e-Iqbal: The book comprises some 21 essays on Iqbal, his person and art together with his achievements as a philosopher, poet, legal practitioner, teacher, and politician. Informative essays on Auntie Doris, German governess of Iqbal’s children, Ali Bakhsh, Iqbal’s life-long domestic aide, Allah Dad, a commoner and a devout admirer of Iqbal, and Prof.

Muhammad Munawar Mirza, and Dr. Ayub Sabir, both Iqbal’s illustrious interpreters and experts on Iqbal studies. The introductory to the book by the author himself is a vibrant critical estimation of Allama Iqbal in the contemporary world of letters.

Insani aukarraN tay Iqbal: The medium of this book is Punjabi in which the author has highlighted Iqbal’s concern on the problems and issues pertinent to mankind in general and the Umma in particular, in 12 thought-provoking essays. Some of the topics relate to moral values, Iqbal’s concept of life, Islamic unity, conflict of civilizations, Iqbal’s economic philosophy, Iqbal’s views on feministic issues et al.

Khushbu-e-Iqbal: It is a compendium of critiques written on various dimensions of Iqbal’s person and art and also on those luminaries who have studied Iqbal

from some specific angles. Distinguished names in this list are the author himself, Dr. Rafiuddin Hashmi, Waheed ur Rahman Khan, Zulfiqar Ahsan, Kh. Ejaz Ahmad Butt, Dr. Talib Hussain Sial, Tafakhar Mahmood, Mian Sajid Ali, Dr. Moinudddin Aqeel, Prof. Khayal Afaqi, Dr. Arooba Masroor Siddiqui, Dr. Saadat Saeed, Dr. Abdul Haq, Dr. Muhammad Tahir Faruqi, Tanvir Zahoor and some others.

Zeba’iye Khayal: It is a miscellany of essays on disparate topics like community rearing and characterbuilding in the light of Iqbal’s views, economics and modern economic theorems, Iqbal’s literary-cumcritical awareness, Iqbal and the concept of a modern state, Bushra Rahman — a movement in herself, the

Chinese CG gives ‘Pak-China Friendship Award’ to IIRMR President

KARACHI: Consul General of China in Karachi Yang Yundong conferred Pak-China Friendship Award to Institute of International Relations and Media Research (IIRMR) President Yasir Habib Khan in recognition of his meritorious services for the promotion of Pakistan China Relation and China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The event served as a platform to celebrate China's achievements, share future goals, and honor the collaborative efforts of media partners. More than 25 other media practitioners and people belong to different sphere of life were awarded Pak-China Friendship awards. On the occasion, Consul General of China in Karachi Yang Yundong spoke about China's accomplishment of high-quality development targets, achieving an estimated Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 5.2%.

Addressing the progress in the CPEC, Yang Yundong emphasized significant advancements and the near-completion of various highprofile projects set to benefit the people of Pakistan. The Consul General expressed China's resilience in the face of international risks and domestic challenges, citing positive trends and a rebounding economy driven by high-quality development.Providing statistical data, he mentioned that in 2023, China's goods trade imports and exports totaled RMB 41.76 trillion, showcasing a year-on-year growth of 0.2%.

The exclusive body that represents rice exporters, Rice Exporters Association Pakistan, earlier told the media that with a bumper crop of rice this year, it is confident that rice exports will surpass the record $3 billion, marking an encouraging development for the sector.

REAP’s chairman said that despite being the second major export item after textiles, the rice sector currently receives no subsidy or support from the government.

IMPACTS ON FOOD SECURITY AND DOMESTIC INDUSTRY: A potential downside of the surge in rice exports could be a price hike in the local market. A rice shortage could have far-reaching impacts, affecting wheat, soybeans, corn, and maize prices, with potential consequences for food items and fuel. A shortage has already been in effect resulting in panic buying by a lot of the countries.

“Many of LONGi’s technological innovations are industry-first, and independent patented technologies, and could reduce unit manufacturing costs by 28% within one year, unit energy consumption by 20%,” noted the WEF. Although the photovoltaic industry faces many challenges in 2024 such as overcapacity caused by over-investment, Zhong still shows a positive attitude towards the development prospects.

“The global decarbonization trend has reached a consensus, and the trend of sustainable development of renewable energy is irreversible, absolutely.

The climate change is a major issue faced by every corner of the world. In the face of such a premise, I firmly believe that all countries could put aside all contradictions and prejudices to unite, jointly facing challenges.

The photovoltaic industry plays an indispensable role in the context of lowcarbon and zero-carbon; thus, the times require us to make a difference.”

Mushaal saddened over Yasin’s uncle demise ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) for Human Rights and Women Empowerment Mushaal Hussein Mullick expressed her deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the maternal uncle of illegally incarcerated Chairman of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Muhammad Yasin Malik.

Mushaal, who is also a wife of Yasin Malik, in her condolence message on Saturday, said that Muhammad Shafi, maternal uncle of JKLF Chairman, breathed his last due to cardiac arrest. She extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, praying that may Allah Almighty grant highest place to the departed soul in Jannah. The SAPM for Human Rights and Women Empowerment offered prayers to give the bereaved family especially to the mother of Yasin Malik the courage to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

SIFC installs 1MW solar power plant in Hunza for uninterrupted power supply HUNZA

Staff RepoRt

The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) of the government, in partnership with solar firm Energy NPAK has installed a one-megawatt solar power plant in Hunza district of Gilgit-Baltistan. The solar plant aims to meet the energy deficit in the region and ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity to the people living in these valleys. This publicprivate partnership project will play an active role in generating clean energy as well as mitigating global climate change. More than 2,300 solar panels of the plant, located at an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level, will generate 1,600MW of electricity per year for local households and industries.

CJP stresses access to information as ‘a constitutional right’ of every citizen ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa on Saturday emphasized the importance of truth and transparency, stressing that every citizen should strive for truth, regardless of their personal opinions.

Speaking at a workshop held at the apex court here, the chief justice noted that before he assumed the role, no full court meeting had been held for four years, adding that live broadcast of court proceedings as a step towards enhancing the credibility of the judiciary.

He emphasized that access to information is not just a matter of the court’s will but a constitutional right for every citizen, essential for ensuring accountability in society.

Qazi Faez Isa also drew attention to the constitutional rights of freedom of speech and access to information, as outlined in Articles 19 and 19-A, respectively. He underscored the significance of these rights for the public’s understanding of the judiciary’s functioning.

In response to a petition seeking details of Supreme Court employees, the CJP mentioned that

Pakistan’s rice exports surge by over 76.5% in first six months CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

white cane day and its significance, introduction of a uniform educational policy in the country, book culture in our universities, apathy to libraries, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Akbar Allahabadi as a critic of life, vision of a welfare state and Iqbal’s ideology, need to implement Iqbal’s ideology, Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi, Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, and a few minor topics.

Rashhat-e-Aarzu: The book contains some 30 essays, both descriptive and reflective, on topics like tahaffuz Khatm-e-Nabuwwat and Maulana Zafar Ali Khan, Seerat-e-Rasool and defence of Pakistan, Allama Muhammad Iqbal and aqeeda-e-Khatm-eNabuwwat, the ideological base of Pakistan, the role of writers in the Pakistan Movement, corruption as a social malady, national language, Indian role in the cession of ‘East Pakistan’, Pakistan Movement and Quaid-e-Azam’s charismatic leadership, religious harmony, Air Commodore M. M. Alam, Quaid-eAzam’s awareness of Islam, from the passing of the Pakistan Resolution to the creation of Pakistan, a historical perspective of Indian brutalities in Occupied Kashmir, Allama Iqbal and his concept of homeland (‘watan’), Iqbal on servant labourer (‘banda-emazdoor’), esteem of the martyrs, some memories of the day of 14th August, 1947, and Azhar Javed and Sargodha.

Dastan-e-Kutub: It is an anthology of the author’s critical reviews of 21 divers books in Urdu and Punjabi authored by Shahida Muzaffar Khan, Dr. Hafeez Ahmad, Manzar Arfi, Sardar Muhammad Akram Buttar, Attiya Masooma, Khurram Sohail, Dr. Aziz Ahsan, Muhammad Yaqoob Firdowsi Ameer Badshah, Akram Kunjahi, Dr. Nisar Turabi, Ashraf Ali Ashraf, Kaleem Ihsan Butt, Dr. Muhammad Musharaf Hussain Anjum, and Sahibzada Hazeefa Ashraf Asimi.

The aforesaid books are sure to satisfy the craze of the bibliomaniacs who are keen to have a reasonable variety of good books on their personal shelves for whiling away their leisure gainfully. The author deserves kudos for doing this wonderful job of promoting book culture, without any practical motive.

While the producers of rice celebrate high profitability, the government gears up for another big concern. The annual food inflation in December 2023 stood at a staggering 27.5%%. What is more interesting, is the requisite inflation in rice.

According to inflation data published by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the annual inflation in the prices of rice in the month of December was recorded at 45.6 % in urban areas and above 50.68 % in rural areas.

Talking to Profit, former Vice President Pakistan Rice Exporters Association (REAP) claimed that the export is expected to improve in coming months keeping in view the fresh crop and rising demand in markets especially Middle East ahead of holy month of Ramadan. He claimed that the price of the kitchen item has decreased during the past couple of months, however it has started going up again due to some market uncertainty and rising demand abroad.

03

the apex court promptly ordered its registrar to provide the required information within seven days. He also highlighted the Supreme Court’s practice of uploading important verdicts on its website for public access, emphasizing that citizens have the right to demand information without fear of reprisal. The CJP further discussed the importance of accountability, indicating that complete access to information is crucial for the process of accountability to begin. He also mentioned the appointment of a female district and sessions judge as the Supreme Court registrar,

along with ongoing efforts to nominate judges for the judicial commission.

Additionally, Qazi Faez Isa emphasized the significance of improving educational institutions to change the destiny of the country. He mentioned the restoration of student unions at the Quaid-eAzam University as a step in this direction.

The CJP also released the judiciary’s threemonth performance report, highlighting the efforts to settle a significant number of cases within a limited timeframe. He underscored the importance of accountability in front of journalists and the public, emphasizing the constitutional rights related to freedom of the press and access to information.

In conclusion, Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa highlighted the duty of institutions under the federal government to provide information upon demand, and he encouraged citizens to access information from the Supreme Court’s website.

The CJP stated that efforts were afoot to manage the operations of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) in a “proper manner”.

The chief justice remarked that there would have been fewer complaints if the SJC had completed its tasks.

04 COMMENT

Fair and Free Elections 2024

FBR Reform

T

F

The government’s performance is not such that the country can afford the revenue loss caused

Overseas Pakistanis will continue to be influential on February 8

HAT the Federal Board of Revenue needs reform is not disputed by anyone except ostriches, or perhaps diehards in the taxation departments. The low tax-to-GDP ratio, the tax officials continue to be mistrusted by the business community, and the IMF’s heavy breathing keep reform a high priority. However, is this what caretakers are supposed to do? The reform proposed by the caretakers would break up the FBR into three, with separate boards for Customs, Inland Revenue and Tax Policy. The reform seems to have run into resistance over the appointment of private-sector board members, chartered accountants or tax practitioners for example. Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar explicitly told the assembled FBR officials at an all-day meeting on Friday that the caretakers could give no guarantees about whether the new government would appoint such members. The FBR officials fear that such members would embody a conflict of interest.

The parties have not been canvassed on whether those reforms would be acceptable. Would they be satisfied by appointing party hacks to the new Oversight Boards, or would they restore the old system? There is also the issue of whether the tax administration would be improved or not. There is danger that recalcitrant officials will cause revenue to plunge, and blame the reforms.

The involvement of the Special Investment Facilitation Council apex committee is a new feature. The SIFC approved the policy before it went to the Cabinet. There is some dispute about the summary which will go to Cabinet, such as the role of the Revenue Secretary in the Boards, whether he would be their chairman, as he presently is of the FBR, or would he merely be a member. So far, the FBR has collected record revenues, and has exceeded its halfyearly target of Rs 975 billion, collecting Rs 982 billion.

The caretakers cannot entirely congratulate themselves on the state of the economy, for if imports are a little down so are exports, while short-term inflation, as measured by the Sensitive Price Index is running at 44.64 percent. Inflation had decelerated to 24.4 percent in August, but has climbed ever since the caretakers took over. Thry might claim that they dampened the runway depreciation, but they cannot claim to have shielded the economy from the wave of inflation that is afflicting the entire world.

At this point, with the coming election less than a month away, the caretaskers should stop any policy initiatives and lea ve them to the next government.

Naveed akhtar

AIR and free electoral races are vital for the popularity-based process in any nation, including Pakistan. The following are a few justifications for why they are especially significant with regards to Pakistan: Majority-rule Administration: Fair and free races are essential to the working of a vote-based framework. They permit residents to pick their representatives through a straightforward and comprehensive cycle. In Pakistan, which works under a majority-rule structure, decisions are a critical component for individuals to communicate their will and have something to do with the administration of the country.

Authenticity of Government: Elections give legitimacy to transferring power calmly and in a real way. When held properly, elections improve the authenticity of the chosen government. An administration that is chosen through free and fair elections is bound to partake in the trust and backing of individuals, adding to political dependability.

Portrayal and Inclusivity: Fair races assist with guaranteeing that different sections of the populace are included in the public authority. This incorporates ethnic, district, and provincial variations. Because in Pakistan, there are wide variations in the populace, fair elections are fundamental to guarantee that the government addresses all interests, everything being equal.

Responsibility and Straightforwardness: Elections lead to the arrangement of responsibility, as chosen authorities are indebted to individuals who decided in favour of them.

This energizes straightforwardness and mindful administration.

Straightforward appointments add to building trust in organizations, cultivating great administration, and diminishing corruption.

Harmony and Soundness: Fair elections add to political dependability by giving a peaceful means for the transfer of power. At the point when individuals accept that they have a genuine method for communicating their political will, the probability of political turmoil and insecurity is diminished. In locales where political strains might exist, fair races can act as a serene source for settling contrasts and clashes.

Global Standing: The holding of fair and free elections upgrades a country's standing on the world stage. It mirrors a commitment to vote-based standards and common freedoms, which can emphatically influence conciliatory relations with other states and global organizations.

Social and Financial Turn of events: A stable world of politics coming about because of fair races is helpful for social and financial turn of

events. It draws in venture, encourages financial development, and establishes a climate where residents can effectively take part in the advancement cycle.

Resident Strengthening: Fair elections engage citizens by giving them a voice in moulding the course of their country. They build up the possibility that government is treated as a collective responsibility and energize civic interest. All in all, fair and free decisions assume a critical part in moulding the popularity-based scene of Pakistan, guaranteeing portrayal, responsibility, and strength to improve the country and its people.

Overseas Pakistanis Roles in Fair and Free Elections 2024: Overseas Pakistanis assume a large role in the electoral cycles of Pakistan, adding to the country's political scene in different ways. The following are a few vital parts of their inclusion.

Remittances and Financial Effect: Overseas Pakistanis are a huge source of remittances, adding to the nation's economy. These remittances assume a pivotal part in supporting the monetary prosperity of families and can add to financial solidity, which is crucial for the general soundness of a majority-rules system.

Casting a ballot Rights and Support: The Pakistani government has done whatever it takes to include overseas Pakistanis in the majority-rule process by giving them the option to cast a ballot. This permits them to partake in shaping the political scene and communicating their political inclinations, regardless of whether they are living abroad.

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi

Political Support and Campaigning: Overseas Pakistanis frequently take part in political backing and campaigning endeavours in their host nations.

They might attempt to bring issues to light about issues confronting Pakistan, look for help for its purposes, or impact arrangements that can affect the country.

Diaspora Portrayal: A few overseas Pakistanis have become powerful figures in the nations they dwell in. Their prosperity and portrayal in different fields, like legislatures, business, and the scholarly world, add to the positive picture of Pakistan and ex-

No more a myth: The country of 400 million people Executive Editor

Unchecked population growth threatens all development

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dr Zafar khaN Safdar

OR years, Pakistan’s soaring population growth has been evident in increasingly crowded roads, malls, schools, hospitals, parks, and communities across the country. No one was serious about understanding the reasons until now. With 250 million people and counting, Pakistan’s population is growing quickly, putting it at the risk of ranking among the four most populous countries in the world. Our population has grown by 57 percent at an annual rate of 2.4 percent since 1998, with the fastest growth rate in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (including the erstwhile FATA) and Balochistan. However, growth in Punjab and Sindh has slowed compared to previous results. The female population has increased by about one percent over the past 19 years. The majority of people, 53 percent, still live in Punjab, but its share in the population pie has declined.

Pakistan’s growing population density and unemployment, particularly among young people, negatively impact the quality of life. Housing strain and financial strain lead to poverty, while income inequality worsens due to unequal resource allocation.

Inadequate medical facilities, high illiteracy rates, and overuse of resources in agriculture cause problems.

Urbanization and industrial growth lead to pollution, health issues, and a lack of education. Addressing these issues is crucial for a more equitable and sustainable Pakistan.

According to UNDP predictions, Pakistan’s population might exceed 403 million by 2050 if the country’s present growth rate is not addressed. Population growth at the rate of 2.4 percent has eroded fruits of higher economic growth for Pakistan. In a ‘capital-poor’ and technologically backward country, rapid growth of population reduces output by lowering the per capita availability of capital and diminishes the availability of capital per head which reduces the productivity of the labour force.

As a result, income is reduced and capacity to savings is diminished which, in turn, adversely affects capital formation. Due to higher population growth rate, investment requirements are beyond its investing capacity in the country. Rapid growth in population increases the requirements of demographic investment which at the same time reduces the capacity of the people to save.

This creates a serious imbalance between investment requirements and the availability of investible funds, hence the entire investment is absorbed by demographic investment and nothing is left for economic development.

We need to understand that a fast growth in population means a large number of persons coming to the labour market for whom it may not be possible to provide employment. In fact, in a country like Pakistan, the number of job seekers is expanding so fast that despite all efforts towards planned development, it has not been possible to provide employment to all. Unemployment, underemployment and disguised employment are our common features today. A 2.4 percent annual increase in population means more mouths to feed. Being an agricultural country and despite all our efforts, good or bad apart, for raising agricultural production, we are not able to fully feed our population. Food scarcity affects economic development, inadequate supply of food leads to undernourishment

welfare state in the Constitution, is pledged to meet social needs of the people adequately and for this, the government has to spend a lot on providing basic facilities like education, housing and medical aid but rapid increase in population makes the burden all the heavier.

More important a result than any other is that the population explosion is the key reason for illiteracy in Pakistan. People prefer to engage their children in economic activities, rather than providing them education. The government cannot ignore or shelve the problem of population explosion, for it is a rot and the entire development of the country depends on how effectively it is stemmed. Although Pakistan has witnessed higher economic growth in the previous years, it is unable to adjust its economic structure. Higher population growth has implications for natural resources.

Pakistan could not replicate the industrial countries’ transition because of its inability to modernise agriculture or develop an industrial base. In Pakistan this high-rate population growth is a cause for poverty, environmental degradation and high debt levels. Pakistan has to control population explosion for various reasons. Pakistan has socio-religious problems which are hampering its development efforts.

To lessen the exclusion of marginalised communities from opportunities, social and economic policies must be integrated with population policies. This covers spending on skills, health, education, and export-driven growth. Governments ought to support literacy, contraception, and youth engagement in national issues. The irony is we do not own any ministry at federal level but a Trust called National Trust for Population Welfare (NATPOW) headed by a DG is working under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination.

The scope of NATPOW is limited in the absence of sufficient budgetary allocation, minimal assigned targets, and insignificant organizational structure. Thus, its performance is far below requirement. It is high time that the government, both federal and the provincial, should seriously activate and engage population departments, and adopt official programmes to build public opinion in reducing the birth rate so that the population can fit in well with the evolving pattern of our developing economy.

The scope of NATPOW is limited in the absence of sufficient budgetary allocation, minimal assigned targets, and insignificant organizational structure. Thus, its performance is far below requirement. It is high time that the government, both federal and the provincial, should seriously activate and engage population departments, and adopt official programmes to build public opinion on reducing the birth rate so that the population can fit in well with the evolving pattern of our developing economy of the people which lowers their productivity. It further reduces the production capacity of the workers, and the deficiency of food compels the country to import food grains which places an unnecessary strain on foreign exchange reserves.

It is agreed that rapid growth of population is largely responsible for the perpetuation of the vicious cycle of poverty in developing countries like Pakistan. With their higher population, people spend the major part of their income on bringing up their children which results in maintaining the savings and rate of capital formation at the least level, reduction in per capita income, rise in general price level, leading to a sharp rise in the cost of living. Pakistan, being declared a

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

hibit the capability of the diaspora.

Innovation and Data Sharing: Overseas Pakistanis, frequently associated worldwide, can add to the dissemination of data and thoughts. They can utilize innovation and web-based entertainment stages to share news, bring issues to light about political turns of events, and add to public talk.

Speculation and Undertakings: Overseas Pakistanis might put resources into organizations and undertakings in Pakistan, adding to the financial resources of society. Their monetary ventures can set out work, open doors, invigorate development, and back the general flourishing of the country.

Social Trade and Delicate Discretion: Overseas Pakistanis act as social ministers, advancing Pakistani culture, values, and customs in their host nations.

This social trade encourages understanding, forms links, and adds to positive global relations.

Charity and Social Drives: Numerous overseas Pakistanis are effectively engaged with charity and social drives. They add to local area improvement, training, medical care, and other social causes, having a beneficial outcome on the prosperity of networks inside Pakistan.

Commitment to Popularity based Cycles: Overseas Pakistanis might take part in democratic activities, like taking an interest in political conversations, supporting political parties, and chipping in for purposes that align with their qualities and interests.

Promotion for Ostracize Privileges: Overseas Pakistanis might advocate for their privileges and interests, resolving issues connected with dual citizenship, voting methodology, and different other worries connected with the area they belong to. Dealing with these can prompt changes that better fulfill the necessities of overseas Pakistanis.

The role of overseas Pakistanis in the majorityrules system is multi-layered, enveloping financial commitments, political cooperation, social impact, and social effect. Their inclusion reinforces the ties between the diaspora and the country, enhancing events in general and the dynamic quality of Pakistan's electoral framework.

The role of overseas Pakistanis in the majority-rules system is multi-layered, enveloping financial commitments, political cooperation, social impact, and social effect. Their inclusion reinforces the ties between the diaspora and the country, enhancing events in general and the dynamic quality of Pakistan's electoral framework

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Joint Editor

Sunday, 21 Januar y, 2024

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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

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.

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Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

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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

Nuclear Fusion: The Answer to Energy Crisis

STARS, including our sun, are alive only because of one fascinating concept: nuclear fusion.

Nuclear fusion is a reaction in which the nuclei of two or more atoms fuse together to form a heavier nucleus; this produces astonishing quantities of heat and energy. However, these reactions also need substantial amounts of heat and pressure to take place.

A fusion reaction occurs in a state of matter known as plasma, existing either at low pressures or very high temperatures. In order to implement nuclear fusion on Earth, we would need nuclei to collide with each other at temperatures over 10 million degrees Celsius to enable them to overcome their mutual electrical repulsion and allow them to fuse. To do this, the nuclei must be contained within a limited space to enhance the likelihood of a collision.

High temperatures and extreme pressures in the sun allow this to occur; however, since recreating such conditions is extremely difficult to create on Earth, the chances of seeing the use of nuclear fusion in the near future as a source of energy are very low. The amount of energy produced, on the other hand, is enough to incentivize us to work towards overcoming this challenge.

Nuclear fusion can provide four times as much energy as nuclear fission and four million times more energy than resources like coal. Therefore, if we can harness the power of nuclear fusion, we could be able to provide clean, safe energy for millions of years.

Nuclear fusion and plasma physics research is conducted in more than 50 countries, led by the European Union, the USA, Russia, and Japan; fusion reactions have been successfully achieved in many experiments, albeit without demonstrating a net fusion power gain.

Fusion fuel is abundant and simple to obtain: deuterium can be harvested cheaply from seawater, while tritium can be made from readily available lithium. As for wasteful products, future fusion reactors will not produce long-lasting nuclear waste, and a fusion reactor meltdown is very unlikely. Moreover, nuclear fusion does not generate carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. It hence could potentially play a role in future climate change mitigation as a low carbon energy source alongside nuclear fission.

While the efforts by scientists are promising, nuclear fusion has not shown any practical benefits so far. So far, no one has been able to extract more energy from a fusion experiment than they put in. The majority of experts believe the concept will succeed, but many believe it will be an issue of scale.Prof. Ian Chapman from UKAEA spoke about the subject, “I think fusion needs resources to really make it work. You could do that within a company or a country but you really need to have the requisite scale and resources.”

Nuclear fusion is a viable solution to today’s energy problem. A practical fusion reactor that outputs more energy than it consumes could be possible within the next few years and would be enough to meet humanity’s needs for many generations.

Daniyal Mubashar Khan, Lahore

Gas outage

THE supply of natural gas to Rabia City in Karachi’s Gulistan-i-Jauhar area has been in a bad shape for a significantly long period. Supply shutdowns are in effect from noon to 5pm and then again from 10pm to 7am daily.

Consumers who pay their gas bills on tie are understandably furious.

The management of Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) should take stringent action against those involved in gas theft or those who fail to pay their bills on time. It is crucial not to punish the entire community for the unlawful actions of a few. This is simply against any principle of ethics.

SYED SADAQAT HUSSAIN KARACHI

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

South Africa takes the lead Sunday, 21 Januar y, 2024

By taking Israel to the ICJ, South has enhanced its reputation in the world community

S

dr iMran KHalid

OUTH Africa's legal pursuit signifies a pivotal moment, making the narrative of Gaza and the Palestinians reverberate, breaking through layers of propaganda and ambiguity. Since October 7, this marks a rare occasion where the Gaza story is vividly recounted through official channels, offering a poignant and overwhelming perspective that demands contemplation.

The past three months have been marked by a disturbing indifference to the lives of Palestinian civilians. An estimated 23,500 Palestinians are reported to have been killed since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 and killed 1,200 people and kidnapped some 200 others.

The Gaza Strip has experienced a shortage of resources since, with hospitals, schools and mosques subject to airstrikes, and limited international aid coming into the enclave.

Biassed and onesided narratives have allowed too many in Europe and North America to turn a blind eye or worse, to rationalize complicity in what South Africa contends is genocide, whether through diplomatic backing or arms provision to Israel. South Africa's legal action has effectively dismantled these false narratives.

Unlike those who feigned ignorance, framing the events of October 7 as an external attack with Palestinian groups crossing a sovereign border, South Africa underscored the broader context: the ongoing denial of self-determination and the refugees' right to return. This legal challenge shatters the illusions that shielded many from the harsh reality of the situation.

Despite Israel's denial, Gaza remains effectively occupied due to Israel's control over the territory. South Africa contends that Israel has employed starvation as a method of warfare against the impoverished enclave, enduring four disproportionately severe onslaughts since 2000.

By characterizing Israel's governance over Palestinians as apartheid, South Africa draws on historical parallels and echoes findings from human rights organizations and UN experts. Reports by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch extensively detail Israel's apartheid system, involving domination, segregation, and institutionalized discrimination against all Palestinians. However, by upholding Israel as a democracy, too many politicians and commentators feign ignorance of these apartheid revelations.

South Africa's stance challenges this nar-

rael's self-defence narrative. South Africa contends that self-defence does not justify genocide. States cannot employ genocide or apartheid under the guise of security. The argument reframes the discourse around Israel's actions, emphasizing accountability and human rights over security narratives.

This shift questions the international community's approach, urging a reconsideration of the justifications used by nations in conflict, especially when confronted with allegations of severe human rights violations.

The dismissal of genocide charges against Israel's actions in Gaza by many in the West is fuelled by a media narrative that conveniently ignores inflammatory Israeli statements. South Africa, however, has brought attention to these statements, emphasizing a "distinctive feature" in the case: overwhelming evidence of genocidal intent and incitement to genocide. This contrasts with the dismissive attitude prevalent in the West, where Israeli lawmakers continued to make genocidal statements even in the days leading up to The Hague hearing, seemingly unaffected by the impending legal proceedings. The case underscores the importance of confronting and addressing inflammatory rhetoric and actions, shedding light on a narrative that has been overlooked or downplayed in certain quarters. It comes as no surprise that proponents of Israel are seeking to downplay South Africa's case. However, individuals with a moral compass should anticipate and insist on judicial intervention to safeguard Palestinian lives. The United Nations' grim assessment, mere days before the court hearing, painted a dire picture of Gaza, home to 2.3 million people, now deemed "uninhabitable." The looming risks of famine and diseases present a horrifying prospect, with the potential for a significant increase in casualties, underscoring the urgency for immediate judicial action.

The compelling legal action initiated by South Africa against Israel at the international court of justice under the genocide convention serves as a jolting awakening for numerous Western governments and media platforms that previously endorsed Israel's brutal conflict rative, urging a reconsideration of the facts obscured by political posturing and diplomatic rhetoric. The claim that Gaza remains occupied, with the siege as part of an apartheid system, poses a challenge to Is-

In Gaza, countless men, women, and children face the harsh reality that this intervention may come too late for them. As articulated by Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh, the formidable Irish lawyer representing South Africa, the paramount concern is the potential to save numerous lives. The continuation of Israeli military operations ensures the relentless decimation of Gaza and the ongoing suffering of the Palestinian people.

Ní Ghrálaigh emphasized in the hearing that failure by the court to intervene would constitute a departure from its own precedent and, more significantly, tarnish the reputation of international law. The court is now presented with a pivotal challenge, and its response will be a testament to its commitment to justice and the protection of human lives. The Organization of Islamic Countries, comprising 57 nations, alongside numerous other countries, such as Bolivia, Colombia, and Brazil, has expressed endorsement for the case.

In contrast, the USA and Germany have registered their dissent. But the backing for South Africa is gaining substantial momentum.

The current stage of the case involves provisional measures, implying that South Africa is not seeking a definitive ruling from the court on whether Israel is committing genocide. Instead, South Africa is urging the ICJ to issue an order akin to a preliminary injunction in a US court, aiming to "preserve the status quo."

South Africa's specific requests include a cessation of all military attacks violating the Genocide Convention, an end to causing harm to Palestinian people in Gaza, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid delivery by

Israel. The ICJ holds the authority to either grant all of South Africa's requests or issue specific orders. We cannot predict a precise timeframe for the ICJ's decision after the oral arguments, suggesting it could take weeks or longer. Whether the ICJ rules in favor of South Africa or not, the provisional measures would be of a temporary nature.

Subsequently, judges would deliberate on whether the case should progress to the merits phase, sparking a comprehensive trial between South Africa and Israel where the court would ultimately determine if Israel committed genocide— an outcome that could span years. While the ICJ's orders carry legal weight, experts caution that the court lacks the power to enforce compliance.

Enforcement typically relies on public pressure, as defiance tarnishes a country's reputation, given the ICJ's prestige.

Although the U.N. Security Council holds authority for enforcement, the veto power of nations like the USA and Russia shields them and their allies from mandates.

The UN General Assembly might issue a resolution for enforcement, but sceptics argue that even this action could be disregarded. The intricate web of international legal dynamics underscores the complexities surrounding the potential aftermath of an ICJ decision. Regardless of the outcome of the case, South Africa has undoubtedly emerged as a champion of human rights and global leader of the anti-apartheid campaign.

The Houthis may have checkmated Biden in Red Sea standoff The writer is a freelance columnist

The Houthis have long made confrontation with the U.S. and Israel a major plank of their ideology, expressed as a blend of Islamism, anti-imperialism, and overt antisemitism

I

INTERCEPT

Murtaza Hussain

SRAEL’S unrelenting assault on the Gaza Strip is beginning to tip the Middle East into a wider regional conflict. In the past week, the Houthis in Yemen emerged as an unlikely power player, successfully disrupting global shipping in the name of Palestinians in Gaza and goading the U.S. into launching a series of airstrikes in a failed bid at deterrence.

Over the past three months, the Houthis have attacked merchant ships passing through the Red Sea, an unexpected military intervention aimed at forcing Israel to end its U.S.-backed offensive in Gaza and allow aid into the besieged territory.

The Houthis’ squeeze on the critical trade route is already impacting the global economy: Spooked shipping companies have diverted vessels toward more costly routes, with risk insurance premiums and global shipping prices rising. The effects of the attempted blockade could soon be seen in the costs of oil and consumer goods worldwide.

The U.S. Navy, considered the security guarantor of maritime shipping routes across much of the world, was eventually pressured into action. Since last week, the U.S. launched five airstrikes on Houthi positions.

The Houthis doubled down. They fired at passing ships with several more rounds of missiles and drones. The targets included U.S. commercial vessels and a U.S. Navy warship — signs that the rebels were only emboldened by the U.S. volley.

During a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Joe Biden acknowledged that the airstrikes were not stopping the Houthis but said the U.S. would keep targeting the group anyway.

With its decision to attack, the Biden administration appears to have opened itself up to a geopolitical checkmate by the Houthis. Escalating the strikes against the rebels will likely bring more shipping disruptions — potentially counterproductive to mitigating economic consequences — and risk a full-blown regional war. Negotiating or submitting to the demands of a nonstate militia group from one of the poorest countries in the world would be seen by many as a U.S. surrender and would boost the Houthis’ newfound popularity.

TRIBUNE

Editorial

The hardening of the Centre’s stance on deepfakes and misinformation powered by artificial intelligence is reassuring. Plans are afoot to notify new rules following the lukewarm response of social media platforms to the advisory to crack down with urgency on doctored videos. Victims will be able to file criminal cases, as also anyone with the knowledge of the content being deepfake.

Platforms found in violation of rules could be blocked. Penalties will be decided as per criminal law. There has been a slew of deep-

Battle-hardened in a brutal civil war with a Saudibacked Yemeni government-in-exile, the Houthis look unready to back down, even inviting the wider conflict. “The Houthis absolutely want this conflict,” said Iona Craig, a journalist and political specialist focused on Yemen. “It is part of their ideology, whose antiAmerican element was formed during the period of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. They now very much see themselves as the defenders of Palestinians and the people of Gaza.”

With the Houthis undeterred, the U.S. State Department took a different approach on Wednesday, designating the militia as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group, a partial reversal of its decision in 2021 to remove the Houthis from the more stringent Foreign Terrorist Organization list. The new designation makes the Houthis subject to economic and political sanctions but avoids the stricter rules of the FTO list. Humanitarian groups said harsher measures would impede aid to areas of Yemen that Houthis came to control during the civil war.

Two hours after being redesignated as a terror group in the U.S., the Houthis targeted a U.S. carrier ship, and the U.S. responded with another round of strikes.

“The Biden administration seems to be hoping that degrading Houthi capabilities will coerce them to stop, but that doesn’t appear to be working,” Daniel DePetris, a fellow at Defense Priorities, a foreign policy think tank based in Washington, told The Intercept. “Everyone is deterrable, and the Houthis are not lunatics. But the problem when dealing with nonstate actors is that it requires more force to get them to change their strategic calculus.” He added, “The Saudis also thought that they could beat the Houthis militarily without having to address any of the political demands that they were making.” Once a small, ragtag army, the Houthis learned to hit back against much more powerful militaries over years of civil war and foreign intervention — acquiring knowledge they appear to be putting into practice against the U.S. The Houthis, officially known as Ansarallah, emerged decades ago as a movement opposed to the perceived corruption of the Yemeni government. For the past several years, the group has been at war with the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen and are currently in peace negotiations to end the conflict. The U.S. played a key role in the civil war, heavily arming — and for a time giving direct assistance to — an air campaign by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates that inflicted huge civilian casualties. The onslaught failed to defeat the Houthis.

The civil war became a training ground where the Houthis learned to outmaneuver vastly superior U.S.made weapons — especially air power — in its current operation in the Red Sea. The rebels use inexpensive anti-ship missiles and small boats to attack the shipping vessels, utilizing the advantage of light and mobile forces that drive up costs and weaken the effectiveness of enemies’ attacks from the air.

“The Houthis have a big force, but they rely on distributing their power broadly across the territory that they control. They rely more on being mobile than on heavy infrastructure,” said Baraa Shiban, a political analyst on Yemen and associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute. “They have survived a long air campaign by two of the stronger militaries in the region, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and have adapted how to move and operate their forces accordingly.”

The Houthis are often dismissed as mere proxies of Iran, part of a nexus of groups referred to as the “Axis of Resistance,” which includes Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Palestinian militants of Hamas. Analysts, however, say that while Iran does provide the Houthis with money, weapons, and military training, the Houthis operate with relative political independence. “It is robbing them of their agency when we say that the Houthis are merely stooges of Iran,” Hisham Al-Omeisy, senior adviser on Yemen with the European Institute of Peace, told The Intercept. “They have their own mindset, agenda, and ideology.” In its most dramatic display of independence, the Houthis reportedly rebuffed Iranian efforts to stop them from taking the Yemeni capital of Sanaa in 2015, according to U.S. intelligence reports.

The Houthis have long made confrontation with the U.S. and Israel a major plank of their ideology, expressed as a blend of Islamism, anti-imperialism, and overt antisemitism. Along with other Iran-backed groups, the Houthis reject most aspects of the U.S.backed political order in the region and have made serious threats to the stability of U.S.-allied regimes like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. “One of the main things people miss about the Houthis is that their end goal is not just Yemen. This is an expansionist group with regional ambitions,” said Al-Omeisy. “This conflict is a perfect opportunity for them to say that they are the real vanguard of the Arab nation, while other leaders are complicit in the suffering of the Palestinians.”

WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS At the center of the unrest in the Red Sea is the crisis in Gaza, which has been devastated by Israeli attacks since the October 7 offensive by Hamas. Though Israeli troops are carrying out the war that has killed more than 24,000 Palestinians, the U.S. is the patron and enabler. The Biden administration continues to offer unblinking nancial and diplomatic support to Israel, despite mounting accusations against the U.S. of complicity in genocide.

The Houthis entered the fray almost immediately.

In the days after Israel launched its retaliatory assault, the Houthis sent ballistic missiles toward Israel and began its attacks on the Red Sea shipping lanes.

The Houthis have long been a polarizing force in Yemeni politics, but they have seized on anti-American sentiment in the Arab world and the seeming indifference of pro-U.S. regimes to the suffering in Gaza to elevate their geopolitical status. Not only are the Houthis distinguishing themselves as champions of the Palestinian cause, but they are also rehabilitating their reputation at home, where they have struggled to set up a

functional government amid civil war. Houthi spokespeople have become fixtures on Arabic-language television stations, where they relish their role challenging the West over the plight of the Palestinians.

Anger toward the U.S. seems likely to grow in the region, as the Biden administration appears to be putting the global economy over Palestinian lives in its strikes on the Houthis. “The U.S. should consider that these actions in Gaza are enraging people throughout the region,” said Al-Omeisy.

“The local perception is that when Palestinian blood was being shed the last three months, no one was bothered, but when the economic interests of the West were threatened, they immediately acted.

This message fits right into Houthi rhetoric and is resonating very strongly in the region.”

Their bid is working. Rather than weakening the Houthis, the U.S. airstrikes seem to be boosting the Houthis’ political standing throughout the Middle East, where analysts say public opinion of the U.S. has reached lows not seen since the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq. Polls taken among Arabs in the region show widespread anger and disillusionment toward the U.S. since the start of the Gaza war, with far more favorable views of rival countries like China and Russia. “The Biden administration and U.S. policymakers have not yet grasped how high antiAmericanism is in the region, where it is at a level that we have not seen since the war in Iraq,” Shiban, of Royal United Services Institute, said. “Even if they claim that this is an Israeli operation and we have nothing to do with it, the Arab public does not buy it.” With the U.S. military now stuck in an exchange of attacks with the Houthis, experts say the Biden administration has no good options. “I don’t think that the U.S. is trying to engage in regime change in Yemen,” said DePetris, the Defense Priorities fellow, “but if this continues to snowball, that may end up being something that the administration may try to consider.”

Deepfake crisis There is growing concern over the prospect of deepfake misuse and chatbots impersonating candidates during the ensuing Lok Sabha elections

fake incidents targeting prominent individuals in recent months. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, the latest victim, had to call out as fake an AI-generated video showing him promoting a gaming app.

There is growing concern over the prospect of deepfake misuse and chatbots impersonating candidates during the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. It’s essential to put a stringent regulatory framework in place.

New rules equating the peddling of deepfake content with forgery puts the onus on social media platforms to tackle the menace with all the seriousness it deserves. It’s a timely warning about the legal consequences of in-

action or a casual approach to preventing harm. Deepfakes use AI algorithms to generate videos, audio recordings or images that look and sound real.

They blur the line between reality and fabrication by creating highly convincing fake content. Deepfakes also pose a threat to privacy. It is incumbent upon the regulators and the industry players to join forces to effectively address the issues involved.

The task is tough, right from developing robust detection techniques to promoting proactive reporting and raising awareness.

The key is to hold both the creators and disseminators accountable.

06 NEWS

ISRAEL CONTINUES GAZA OFFENSIVE, KILLS 165 PALESTINIANS IN PAST 24 HOURS

Incursion into Tulkarem leaves massive destruction: Residents

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GAZA/WEST BANK AGENCIES

T least 165 Palestinians have been killed and 280 injured in the last 24 hours, and people are still trapped under rubble as Israeli forces continue their assault on the besieged Gaza Strip, the territory’s Health Ministry said on Saturday.

“The Israeli occupation committed 14 massacres against families in the Gaza Strip, leaving 165 martyrs and 280 injured during the past 24 hours,” the ministry said in a statement.

“Many people are still trapped under rubble and on the roads as rescuers are unable to reach them,” the statement said.

Israeli forces blew up multiple homes in the town of Al-Qarara, northeast of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, killing several people and injuring

others, the Palestinian news agency Wafa reported on Saturday.

A Palestinian was also killed after being directly targeted by a reconnaissance plane in Khan Younis, the news agency said, citing medical sources.

Moreover, Israeli warplanes launched intense airstrikes targeting the areas of Bani Suhaila, Al-Zana, Abasan, and Batn Al-Sameen, east and south of Khan Younis.

Israeli fighter jets also shelled, with many missiles, the town of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip.

Israeli warplanes also launched intense airstrikes on Bani Suhaila, AlZana, Abasan, and Batn Al-Sameen in the east and south of Khan Younis.

Fighter jets also shelled Jabalia, a town in northern Gaza, with numerous missiles.

With the latest Palestinian casualties, the death toll from Israel’s ongoing at-

4 IRGC advisers killed in Israeli attack on Syrian capital: Report DAMSCUS

STAFF REPORT

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Saturday that four of its advisers were killed in an Israeli attack on the Syrian capital, Damascus. In a statement, the IRGC said that “in addition to the killing of four military advisors serving in Syria, there were also deaths among Syrian forces” in the Israeli attack.

The statement provided no additional information about the number of deaths in Syrian forces.

The Iranian Mehr News Agency also reported that four Iranian IRGC members were killed in an Israeli raid on a neighborhood in the Syrian capital.

“Two IRGC senior military advisors to Syria and two other members of the IRGC were martyred in the Israeli Zionist regime’s air strike on the Syrian capital, Damascus,” the agency reported.

Meanwhile, the Syrian SANA news agency confirmed the attack without providing details regarding the casualties. Israel on Saturday launched an attack that targeted a residential building in the Al-Mazah neighborhood, west of Damascus, the agency reported.

A nongovernmental organization, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said in a statement that a violent explosion was heard in the Al-Mazah neighborhood, west of the capital Damascus, next to the Al-Muhammadi Mosque, as a result of an Israeli missile targeting a 4-story building.

According to initial reports, the attack resulted in the death of five persons, the statement added.

The attack also resulted in the complete destruction of the building, said the group.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli side regarding the attack.

Since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Israel has occasionally carried out attacks on military positions belonging to Iran-backed groups and the Syrian army in Syria.

TULKAREM: Israeli army’s incursion into the Tulkarem refugee camp in the West Bank left massive destruction as the army’s bulldozers razed and damaged hundreds of homes, according to residents. The Israeli army started an offensive against the camp early Wednesday that lasted more than 45 hours and left eight Palestinians killed, and dozens injured. The bulldozers also severely damaged the camp’s infrastructure, buildings and vehicles.

1,000 homes damaged According to Faisal Salama, head of the popular committee in the camp, the army damaged nearly 1,000 homes, including 20 that were destroyed, while others sustained damage from minor to severe, rendering dozens uninhabitable. “What happened in the camp is a genuine catastrophe, looks like what they — Israeli army — did in Gaza have been applied in Tulkarem,” said Salama.

He noted that the offensive involved using drones, arrests, field inves-

tigations, forcing families to leave their homes and sabotaging the infrastructure. “The army destroyed most of the camp’s roads, the water, electricity and sewage networks, as well as the telecommunications networks,” he said.

Salama noted that at least 50 Palestinians from the Tulkarem refugee camp are still detained by the army.

Field witnesses Meanwhile, Mohammad Salim, 68, told Anadolu about the difficult days residents went through when Israeli forces raided much of the camp’s homes.

“They raided homes and turned them into military posts,” said Salim.

“After the withdrawal, the camp is not as we know it, like something big happened,” he added.

Ahmad Ghurab said he and his family were forced by the army to leave their home.

“I returned to my home and found it completely destroyed, they smashed everything. The electric equipment and an amount of money were stolen …

tacks on Gaza since Oct. 7 has risen to 24,927, with 62,388 others injured, the ministry said.

Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7, which Tel Aviv says killed nearly 1,200 people.

According to the UN, around 85% of Gazans have been displaced by the Israeli onslaught, while all of them are food insecure. Hundreds of thousands of people are living without shelter, and less than half of aid trucks are entering the territory than before the start of the conflict.

New mosque construction in India’s Ayodhya to begin in May, Muslim group says AYODHYA AGENCIES

As Hindu devotees prepare to inaugurate a grand temple to one of their holiest deities, India’s Muslims plan to begin building a new mosque in the same city later this year, hoping to make a fresh start after a bloody, decades-long dispute.

Haji Arfat Shaikh, the head of the development committee of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) that is overseeing the mosque project, said this week that construction would begin in May, after the holy month of Ramazan, and the mosque would take three to four years to build.

A Hindu mob destroyed a 16th century mosque in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya in 1992, triggering riots that killed about 2,000 people across India, most of them Muslims.

India’s top court said in 2019 that the razing of the mosque was unlawful, but ruled that evidence showed there was a non-Islamic structure beneath it.

It ordered that the site be given to Hindu groups to build a temple and Muslim community leaders be given land elsewhere in the city for constructing a mosque.

While construction of the $180 million temple began within months and the first phase is set to open on Monday, Muslim groups have struggled to raise funds and begin work at a desolate site about 25 km (15 miles) away.

“We hadn’t approached anyone … there was no public movement for it (funds),” said Zufar Ahmad Faruqi, the president of the IICF. Hindu groups aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) began seeking donations more than

three decades back and have collected more than Rs30 billion ($360 million) from 40 million people in India.

The mosque project was delayed also because it had to be redrawn to add more traditional elements in the structure, like minarets, said Athar Hussain, a secretary at the IICF. A 500-bed hospital has also been planned in the complex.

A crowd-funding website is expected to be launched in the coming weeks, said Shaikh, who is also a BJP leader.

“Our effort has been to end and convert enmity, hatred among people into love for each other…irrespective of whether or not you accept the Supreme Court judgement,” said Shaikh.

“All this fighting will stop if we teach good things to our children and people”.

Iran launches Sorayya satellite, sets ‘new record’ TEHRAN

AGENCIES

Iran on Saturday announced the successful launch of a satellite into the highest orbit yet amid escalating tension with the West over its ballistic missile program.

In a statement published by state media, the aerospace unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) said it launched into orbit the Sorayya satellite with an indigenous Qaem 100 satellite carrier.

The satellite with a 50 kg payload was placed into an orbit 750 kilometers (460 miles) above the Earth’s surface by a three-stage Qaem 100 carrier, which is equipped to carry up to 100 kg, Communications and Information Technology Minister Isa Zarepour told state media.

The launch ceremony was among others attended

by IRGC commander Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami and the chief of IRGC’s aerospace division, Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh. According to Iran’s state media, the launch set a “new record” in the country’s space program as it was placed in the 750-km orbit, more than previous launches.

The launch of Sorayya is part of IRGC’s space program which has been a source of concern in the West.

Iran’s satellite launches have often been criticized

by the US, linking them with the country’s ballistic missile program, claiming that it violates the Security Council resolution. Tehran has rejected such claims, saying satellite launches are intended to help in research and agricultural activities.

In September last year, the country launched the imaging satellite Noor-3 into orbit 450 kilometers (280 miles) above the Earth’s surface with a Qassed launch vehicle. Qassed was also used by the IRGC to launch the previous version of the satellite Noor-2 in March 2022, placing it into orbit 500 kilometers (311 miles) from the Earth’s surface.

Sunday, 21 January, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

Families of Israeli captives in Gaza say they lost trust in Netanyahu’s government JERUSALEM AGENCIES

Several families of Israeli hostages who are being held in the Gaza Strip said Friday that they have lost trust in the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in seeking the return of the captives.

Israeli public broadcaster KAN cited the families who stressed they would carry out their own initiatives.

They, however, did not specify what that would look like. KAN quoted one family who said: “Any delay in the negotiations will put their lives (Israeli captives in Gaza) in danger.”

Meanwhile, KAN reported that dozens of families headed late Friday to Netanyahu’s home in Caesarea in northern Israel, to pressure him for the release of the captives.

The former head of the Mossad intelligence agency, Tamir Pardo, joined calls of former security officials who are demanding the government take steps to release the captives.

He told KAN that ending the war against Gaza with the captives killed means Israel loses for the first time.

He also stressed the need to correct the approach of the government in abandoning its citizens.

Israel estimates that Hamas has been holding 136 Israelis in Gaza since Oct. 7. The Palestinian resistance group demands a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons in exchange for releasing Israeli prisoners in its custody.

Israel has launched relentless air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip since a cross-border attack by Hamas which Tel Aviv said killed 1,200 people.

At least 24,762 Palestinians have since been killed, mostly women and children, and 62,108 injured, according to Palestinian health authorities.

The Israeli offensive has left 85% of Gaza’s population internally displaced amid acute shortages of food, clean water and medicine, while 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure was damaged or destroyed, according to the UN.

4 astronauts, including Turkiye’s first, arrive at International Space Station FLORIDA

AGENCIES

A four-man crew, including Turkiye’s first astronaut, arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) early on Saturday for a two-week stay in the latest such mission arranged entirely at commercial expense by Texas-based startup company Axiom Space.

The rendezvous came about 37 hours after the Axiom quartet’s Thursday evening liftoff in a rocketship from Nasa’s Kennedy Space Centre in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Both the Crew Dragon vessel and the Falcon 9 rocket that carried it to orbit were supplied, launched and operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX under contract with Axiom, as they were in the first two Axiom missions to the ISS since 2022. Once the astronauts reach the space station, they fall under the responsibility of Nasa’s mission control operation in Houston.

The Crew Dragon autonomously docked with the ISS at 5:42am EDT (1042 GMT) as the two space vehicles were flying roughly 400 kilometres over the South Pacific, a live Nasa webcast showed.

Both were soaring in tandem around the globe at the hypersonic speed of about 28,200 km/h as they joined together in orbit. With coupling achieved, it was expected to take about two hours for the sealed passageway between the space station and crew capsule to be pressurised and checked for leaks before hatches could be opened, allowing the newly arrived astronauts to move aboard the orbiting laboratory.

Plans call for the Axiom-3 crew to spend roughly 14 days in microgravity conducting more than 30 scientific experiments, many of them focused on the effects of spaceflight on human health and disease.

The multinational team was led by Michael LópezAlegría, 65, a Spanish-born retired Nasa astronaut and Axiom executive making his sixth flight to the space station. He also commanded Axiom’s debut mission — the first all-private voyage to the ISS — in April 2022. His second-in-command for Ax-3 is Italian Air Force Colonel Walter Villadei, 49. Rounding out the team are Swedish aviator Marcus Wandt, 43, representing the European Space Agency, and Alper Gezeravcı, 44, a Turkish Air Force veteran and fighter pilot, making his nation’s first human spaceflight.

They will be welcomed aboard ISS by the seven members of the station’s current regular crew — two Americans from Nasa, one astronaut each from Japan and Denmark and three Russian cosmonauts.

Since its founding eight years ago, Houston-based Axiom has carved out a business catering to foreign governments and wealthy private patrons aiming to put their own astronauts into orbit.

EU’s Borrell accuses Israel of creating and financing Hamas MADRID

AGENCIES

The EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell accused Israel of having “created” and “financed” the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which launched unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has in recent days reaffirmed his opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state, drawing criticism from his US ally, which is still advocating a “two-state solution”.

“We believe that a two-state solution must be imposed from outside to bring peace. Although, I insist, Israel is reaffirming its refusal (of this solution), and to prevent it they have gone so far as to create Hamas themselves,” Borrell said.

“Hamas has been financed by the Israeli government to try to weaken the Palestinian Authority of Fatah.

“But if we do not intervene strongly, the spiral of hate and violence will continue from generation to generation, from funeral to funeral, as the seeds of hatred that are being sown in Gaza today flourish,” he added during a speech in Spanish at the University of Val-

ladolid in central Spain, which awarded him an honorary doctorate.

Hamas was created in December 1987 shortly after the start of the first Palestinian intifada, or uprising, in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories by a group of Islamist militants claiming to be from the Muslim Brotherhood, including the influential Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.

Hamas, the Arabic acronym for the Islamic Resistance Movement, was notably founded to counter the Islamic Jihad militant group and compete with the mainly secular Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) then led by Yasser Arafat.

Twenty years later, in June 2007, Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip following a quasi-civil war against the Fatah movement of Arafat’s successor Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, which partially administers the occupied West Bank.

Air strikes shake Khan Yunis Gunfire and air strikes shook Gaza’s Khan Yunis city on Friday as Israel pressed its southward push in the besieged territory. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported intense artillery fire near the city’s Al Amal hospital,

while the Gaza Strip’s health ministry said 77 people were killed in Israeli bombardment.

At the Al Nasser hospital, a child with a bloodied face cried on a gurney. Ambulances arrived with the injured and the dead while in the darkened city beyond, automatic weapons fire sounded. An orange fireball flashed above rooftops. Israel says it still expects the `military operation’ to continue for months.

But a divide over Gaza’s future with key ally the United States came into sharp focus after Washington again stressed the creation of a Palestinian state as the only way to guarantee Israel’s long-term security. According to the United Nations, roughly 85 per cent of Gaza’s population had been displaced since the Oct 7 outbreak of hostilities.

Aid agencies say improved access is needed urgently as famine and disease loom, but a communications blackout, which continued on Friday for an eighth day, only added to the challenges. Loss of connectivity “prevents people in Gaza from accessing lifesaving information or calling for first responders and impedes other forms of humanitarian response,” said the UN humanitarian agency, OCHA.

Sunday, 21 January, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER ICP training program for firearms licensing and renewal continues

ISLAMABAD: Following the special directions of islamabad Capital City Police Officer (iCCPO) Dr. akbar Nasir Khan, the islamabad Capital Police has initiated a comprehensive training program for the issuance and renewal of firearms licenses, a public relations officer said.He said that, the program entails the issuance of firearms handling training documents to 77 individuals after completing the course.Trained personnel of islamabad Capital Police are giving arms training to the applicant, under the supervision of CPO Law and Order and Training at Police Lines Headquarters.Trained individuals are also provided with membership to the Police shooting Club for continuous practice and skill development. Deputy Commissioner islamabad will collaborate in sharing data related to firearms licenses for effective scrutiny.separate regulations have been issued for prohibited and non-prohibited bores categories. These measures aim to curtail the proliferation of firearms and ensure that licenses are only granted to qualified individuals. PR

GCT renews pledge on International Day of Education to enrol out-of school children

LAHORE: in a rare move, the Lahore-based business fraternity will assemble at an event on the eve of international Day of Education to extend support to the noble drive of enrolling out-of-school children in sindh.The non-profit Green Crescent Trust (GCT) is hosting the event at a hotel in Lahore to mark the international Day of Education which is celebrated on January 24 every year as per the uN's declaration. On the occasion, the notables of Lahore's business community will lend support to the charitable campaign of the GCT to enrol a total of 100,000 out-of-school children in sindh by building a network of 250 schools by the end of 2025. The GCT in pursuit of its mission against illiteracy in sindh in the past 29 years has built 166 charitable schools in remote and rural areas having an enrolment of over 31,799 children from the deprived families."This is the fifth fundraiser we are going to organise in Lahore and like our past events we are hopeful that the business fraternity of Punjab's capital in pursuit of their philanthropic obligations will again overwhelmingly support our drive to end illiteracy for the advancement of lessprivileged parts of the country," said Zahid saeed, the GCT CEO. PR

Onion prices exceed Rs300 per kg

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ussia leapfrogged saudi arabia to become China’s top crude oil supplier in 2023, data showed on saturday, as the world’s biggest crude importer defied Western sanctions to purchase vast quantities of discounted oil for its processing plants.

Russia shipped a record 107.02 million metric tons of crude oil to China last year, equivalent to 2.14 million barrels per day (bpd), the Chinese customs data showed, far more than other major oil exporters such as saudi arabia and iraq. imports from saudi arabia, previously China’s largest supplier, fell 1.8% to 85.96 million tons, as the Middle East

oil giant lost market share to cheaper Russian crude. shunned by many international buyers following Western sanctions over the Kremlin’s 2022 invasion of ukraine, Russian crude oil traded at significant discounts to international benchmarks for much of last year amid a Westernimposed price cap. accelerating demand from Chinese and indian refiners for the discounted oil boosted the price of Russian EsPO crude through 2023, pushing past the Group of seven’s $60 a barrel price cap imposed in December 2022 as alternative shipping and insurance options to circumvent the sanctions proliferated.

EsPO crude shipments for December delivery were priced at a discount of around 50 cents to 20 cent per barrel

a trend of rising onion prices persists throughout the country, with the cost per kilogram surpassing Rs 300. in the current week, the price of onions has reached Rs 320 per kilogram, leaving residents of islamabad grappling with the burden of purchasing the essential vegetable. as per reports, the cost of onions per kilogram stands at Rs 320 in islamabad, Rs 310 in Rawalpindi, Rs 280 in Peshawar, and Rs 270 in sialkot. Meanwhile, in Karachi, Lahore, and Gujranwala, the price has reached up to Rs 240 per kilogram. in Faisalabad, sargodha, Multan, and Bahawalpur, onions are being sold at Rs 220 per kilogram. in Quetta, sukkur, and Larkana, the price remains constant at Rs 220 per kilogram, while in Khuzdar, it is Rs 250. Hyderabad and Bannu witness the lowest rates at Rs 200 per kilogram. it is noteworthy that the previous week recorded the maximum onion price at Rs 260 per kilogram.

STAFF REPORT

special assistant to the Prime Minister (saPM) on Overseas Pakistaand Human Resource nis Development Jawad sohrab Malik held a discussion with the Minister of Education and Higher Education, Qatar, Buthania Bint ali al Jabr al Nuaimi, on various aspects of mutual cooperation and collaboration.

During the discussion, both parties emphasized the crucial role of educated women in the economy and society, says a press release received here on saturday from Doha, Qatar.

They acknowledged the significance of empowering women through education and employment opportunities, recognizing the positive impact it can have on the overall development of a nation. it was highlighted that Qatar is focused on education as per their Vision 2030, aiming to enhance the quality of education and promote lifelong learning. similarly, Pakistan is keen on exporting highly skilled and professional manpower in line with the Qatar’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes human resource development and capacity building.

KARACHI

STAFF REPORT

The saPM floated the idea of introducing a training program for the arabic language, aimed at benefiting workers and facilitating their integration into Qatari culture.

The Minister of Education of Qatar, emphasized the importance of education as a fundamental pillar of national development strategy, and reiterated Qatar's unwavering focus on providing quality education and services.

The consideration of the arabic training program was welcomed as a step towards further enriching the skill set of the workforce in Qatar. in addition, the Minister also commended the Pakistan international school (Pis) and expressed

continued support for the initiative to open a separate Cambridge branch of Pis, recognizing the growing Pakistani community in Qatar.

This move is expected to benefit the Pakistani diaspora and contribute to the fulfillment of Qatar's national Vision 2030.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore opportunities for collaboration in the field of education and human resource development, with a shared vision of fostering mutual growth and prosperity.

During the meeting the saPM was accompanied by the ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar and Community Welfare attaches.

UN-Habitat hosts brainstorming session to address smog, GHG emissions concerns The united Nations Human settlements Programme (uN-Habitat) organized a brainstorming session to address smog, GHG emissions, and air quality concerns in Pakistan. an aQi above 151 is unhealthy, while above 301 the air is hazardous for breathing. Lahore and other cities in the province of Punjab are under a smog emergency every year during the winter season. The objective was to tackle the pressing issue of declining air quality by identifying effective practical solutions.

The session included involvement from various key stakeholders including Ms. Florence Rolle, FaO Representative; Ms. Farzana altaf shah, DG EPa; Mr. ashiq Nawaz, Director EPa; Mr. M. anwar Chaudhry, senior Chief, Planning Commission; Mr. Faiz ul sibtain, assistant Director PEC; Mr. M azim Khoso, Director (ua) MoCC; and Brig. Mohammad ashraf.

Mr. Jawed ali Khan, the Habitat Programme Manager at uN-Habitat, extended a warm welcome to the participants, shedding light on the conference's origins as a response to severe smog occurrences during winters in major Punjab cities. The smog annually affects residents, leading authorities to shut down schools, offices, and parks for extended periods, disrupting daily life. uN-Habitat's primary goal is to address the intricate issues of deteriorating air quality by creating a collaborative platform for joint efforts, focusing on

developing tangible solutions, particularly in energy-efficient building practices. a comprehensive presentation on 'spatio-Temporal mapping on smog and its underlying causes using Gis techniques' was delivered by FaO. The presentation highlighted key contributors to smog, such as transport, industry, power, and agriculture (crop residue burning). FaO emphasized that the transport sector is the primary contributor, accounting for 42% of air pollution in Punjab.

Brig. M. ashraf introduced the concept of 'Energized Buildings' as a strategy to address Pakistan's energy crisis and combat climate change. This concept involves using solar energy to transfer subsoil temperatures (23 – 24oC) into buildings during the day, maintaining cool temperatures. additionally, passive energy stored within the buildings is used at night, contributing to energy efficiency. Mr. ashraf concluded that the benefits include lower emissions, a solution to the energy crisis, and costeffective heating and cooling throughout the year. after the presentations, stakeholders engaged in constructive discussions, agreeing on a collaborative approach to address various issues related to deteriorating air quality.

The consensus was to work together to formulate energyefficient practices, promote sustainable urban development, and implement targeted interventions in sectors contributing significantly to air pollution. This collaboration involves fostering cooperation among government bodies, environmental agencies, and the public to ensure tangible improvements in air quality, paving the way for a healthier and sustainable future for the affected regions.

Weapons, Want, and Well-being

NADIR ALI

The lack of basic necessities like food, medicine, and fuel has caused severe hardship for a considerable section of the populace during Pakistan’s appalling economic downturn. The ensuing spike in inflation makes the situation of already struggling citizens even worse. in addition to showing up as a scarcity of necessities, Pakistan’s economic crisis also takes a sinister turn due to the easy access to hightech weapons. The economic crisis, combined with the severe shortage of necessities, has led to an alarming rise in violent crime. This scarcity, in contrast to the easy access to sophisticated weapons, has led to instability and a sharp rise in criminal activity across the

the Western sanctions.

Buyers also use the waters off Malaysia as a trans-shipment point for sanctioned cargoes from iran and Venezuela. imports tagged as originating from Malaysia climbed 53.7% last year.

China reported no official shipments of Venezuelan crude in December despite an easing of u.s. sanctions on Caracas in October following a deal between President Nicolas Maduro’s administration and its political opposition. shipments to China from the u.s. last year surged 81.1% last year despite geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington as u.s. crude production increased.

China’s overall crude imports for 2023 rose to a record of 563.99 million metric tons, equivalent to 11.28 million bpd.

hands with PTC for tree plantation campaign in Karachi

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to the iCE Brent benchmark, versus a $1 premium for October delivery cargoes and a discount of $8.50 for shipments delivered in March, according to trading sources. at the same time, saudi arabia raised prices for its signature arab Light from July, pushing some refiners to look for cheaper cargoes.

To support prices, saudi arabia and Russia, two of the world’s top three oil producers, announced output and export cuts last year. saudi arabia is rolling over output cuts of 1 million bpd this quarter, while Russia said it would deepen its cut in exports this year to 500,000 bpd from 300,000 bpd.

Chinese refiners use intermediary traders to handle the shipping and insurance of Russian crude to avoid violating

Pakistan, Qatar emphasize crucial role Two more of educated women in economy, society organisations join

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CHINA DEFIES SANCTIONS TO MAKE RUSSIA ITS BIGGEST OIL SUPPLIER IN 2023 NEWS

country. Meanwhile, Pakistan has an exceptionally low rate of intentional homicides, even though weapons are easily obtained on the black market. However, this seeming contradiction highlights the complexity of the situation, in which the availability of weapons, economic destitution, and a regulatory framework that, despite its limitations, manages to keep killings relatively unusual.

Consequently, it has been discovered that Darra adam Khel, which is located about 200 kilometers from islamabad, consistently serves as a clandestine center for the illegal arms trade. This northeastern town has served as a hub for the production and distribution of illegal weapons for more than 150 years, operating covertly across international borders. The majority of the weapons produced there are used both inside and outside of Pakistan, despite the fact that this industry is by definition illegal. The continued significance of Darra adam Khel as a center of the arms trade calls for an intriguing examination of the historical, cultural, and geopolitical contexts that sustain its clandestine operations.

Recently, the Honorable Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) has drawn attention to the discrepancy between national and international norms and voiced serious concerns

about the “loose laws” governing weapon licensing in the country. He calls for the elimination of Pakistan’s pervasive Kalashnikov culture while highlighting the deadly effects of both drugs and weapons. However, the proactive steps taken by the islamabad Police to reduce the spread of weapons are noteworthy in the midst of this unsettling situation. Their admirable dedication to public safety is demonstrated by their stringent requirements for weapon licenses and community involvement. The work of the islamabad Police provides a story of hope in the midst of present challenges, showing that the state can overcome a culture that is defined by guns and violence by enforcing strict laws and involving the community. Hence, a positive step towards creating a society that values accountability and safety for all is represented by this coordinated approach.

Currently, the islamabad Police is engaged in a comprehensive training program focused on the procedures and renewal of weapon licenses, having recently issued training documents to 77 individuals for firearm handling. The training, meticulously supervised by the Chief Police Officer (CPO), encompasses not only the issuance of orders but also the vigilant oversight of the entire train-

Two more organizations have joined hands with the Plant a Million for Community (PTC) for a massive tree plantation drive in Karachi in the next few years. according to a statement on saturday, the PTC in this regard signed two separate memorandums of understanding with the Dream World, Resort, Hotels & Golf Course, and the Next school, in Karachi for jointly conducting the tree plantation campaign. The Mous were signed by PTC co-founders Razzak Pardesi, Murad soni, Dream World Executive Director abdul Jabbar Rathod and The Next school founder sheryar Rathod.

The Dream World and the Next school will each donate 100,000 trees for the joint plantation drive.

The Mous are also signed for launching a joint mass awareness drive and monitoring mechanism for the success of the tree plantation campaign.

Earlier, the National Forum for Environment & Health (NFEH) and the PTC signed an Mou to jointly launch the massive tree plantation campaign in the city. NFEH President Naeem Qureshi, PTC Founders and noted businessmen Razzak Pardesi and Murad ali soni, signed the Mou at a ceremony. under the Mou, PTC will donate plants of indigenous species to Planters, NGO, community groups, industries and the corporate sector. NFEH President said the plantation campaign would be launched in February and continue till October 2024 to plant 100,000 plants and saplings in the city.

He said the office of Karachi’s Commissioner, Karachi’s Mayor, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, newly formed town municipal administrations, DHa, cantonments, and corporate organizations would be fully involved in the plantation drive.

CAA expedites outsourcing of Islamabad Airport ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Civil aviation authority (Caa) has expedited the outsourcing of islamabad international airport. according to sources, the aviation authority has prepared the plan for outsourcing of the airport. sources said that several countries including Qatar, Turkey and China have shown interest in the airport.

Earlier, the key session of the Civil aviation authority (Caa) was held in Dubai to discuss the outsourcing of the Capital city’s airport. The session was attended by international firms who showed interest in islamabad airport’s outsourcing plan. The federal government issued tenders to seek applications for outsourcing islamabad international airport for 15 years. it is pertinent to mention here, that the government decided to outsource Karachi, Lahore, and capital city’s airports. sources said the united arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkiye, China and saudi arabia are taking special interest in outsourcing all three airports‫۔‬

ing process. upon successful completion, individuals are accorded membership to the esteemed Police shooting Club, providing them with opportunities for ongoing practice. Furthermore, a collaborative effort with the Deputy Commissioner of islamabad facilitates the seamless sharing of weapon license data for meticulous inspection purposes. stringent regulations are firmly in place for both prohibited and non-prohibited bore categories, ensuring that licenses are exclusively granted to qualified individuals. This systematic and well-coordinated approach is strategically designed to curb the proliferation of firearms and simultaneously enhance the overall efficiency and responsibility associated with firearm possession in islamabad.

Honestly, the enactment of stringent regulations and the cultivation of a responsible culture among citizens allow the police to significantly contribute to the ongoing national discourse on gun control. Positively, an admirable initiative by the islamabad Police is requiring prospective gun license holders to complete a three-day weapons training course at their shooting range. it is mandatory. The federal capital police have demonstrated their proactive commitment to promoting responsible weapon ownership by

making license issuance conditional on the successful completion of this training. The aforementioned policy aligns with the current regulatory modification trend by highlighting the commitment to improving firearm safety and expertise to strengthen public protection.

Last but not least, Pakistan can only move toward a future where safety, accountability, and communal well-being triumph over the shadow of guns and violence by adopting a coordinated strategy that addresses both the underlying causes and the current complications. This collaborative effort—which has local, national, and international components—shows solidarity against the complex problems associated with the convergence of economic adversity, the spread of weapons, and the upsurge in criminal activity. Therefore, the government is consciously trying to improve gun ownership laws by enacting more stringent regulations. it is clear that a culture of safety and responsible gun handling is being promoted by the emphasis placed on required training for holders of arms licenses. This is a great step toward ensuring that gun ownership in the nation is safer and more responsible overall. The ongoing endeavors of the capital police symbolize a positive stride towards cultivating a society where the cradle-tograve narrative is one not of guns and violence but of safety, responsibility, and collective well-being.

Sunday, 21 January, 2024

Kuwait NO COUNTRY GIVES MEDIA ACCESS TO THOSE Pakistan, collaborate to launch $1 billion mining fund INVOLVED IN SERIOUS CRIMES: SOLANGI PRAYER TIMINGS

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STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Saturday said no country in the world gave media access to people involved in serious crimes.

Speaking to WION News, the minister said the former chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had been convicted and his conviction was not set aside.

“He remains convicted and charged with serious crimes,” he added.

“As we speak, the PTI remains a registered political party and if people bring them in the federal and provincial assemblies the caretaker government has no problem. It’s the people of Pakistan who have to make this decision,” the minister remarked.

To a query, he said all political parties were being treated equally as the state had no favorites. The state media was giving due coverage to all the political parties.

“So far, only constitutional body entrusted with holding free and fair elections is the Election Commission of Pakistan that stands committed to hold the elections on Thursday February 8, 2024,” said Solangi in response to another query.

He said the constitutional caretaker government was committed to supporting the ECP in every possible way

Pakistan’s auto loan sector shrinks for 18 months in a row

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SINCE JUNE 2022, THERE HAS BEEN A DECREASE IN AUTO LOANS AMOUNTING TO RS117 BILLION, FALLING FROM RS368 BILLION OVER 18 MONTHS PROFIT

NEWS DESK

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has released data showing a continuous decline in the amount of outstanding auto loans for the 18th consecutive month. As of December 2023, the outstanding auto loans stood at Rs251 billion, down from Rs257 billion at the end of November and significantly lower than the Rs337 billion recorded in December 2022.

This represents a month-on-month decrease of 2.3 percent and a 25.5 percent drop year-on-year.

Since June 2022, the total reduction in auto loans has been Rs117 billion, marking a sharp decline from Rs368 billion 18 months ago.

Experts attribute this downturn to several factors, including the high cost of vehicles, increased markup rates, and changes in the State Bank’s regulations.

However, there is optimism that auto financing will begin to improve in the next three months.

Mohammed Sohail, CEO of Topline Securities is of the view that a reduction in interest rates might lead to a revival in sales. He highlighted that the current slump in sales is due to the high prices of vehicles and leasing rates. The Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) data indicates a sharp contraction in vehicle sales.

In the first half of FY24, car sales plummeted to 30,662 units from 68,912 units in the same period of FY23. Similarly, sales of light commercial vehicles (LCVs), vans, and pickups nearly halved to 8,442 units from 15,204.

Several factors have contributed to the dampened demand for automobiles. These include a 22 percent interest rate, a significant increase in vehicle prices, restrictions on auto loans exceeding Rs3 million, and a reduction in the payment duration.

Additionally, restrictions on opening letters of credit (LCs) due to the foreign exchange crisis have disrupted production, leading to frequent plant shutdowns by auto assemblers due to shortages of imported parts and accessories.

However, there are signs of improvement as the SBP’s has relaxed import restrictions on auto parts which has led to an increase in the imports of completely knocked down (CKD) kits, to reach $72 million in November 2023 and $104 million in December 2023, up from just $23 million in October 2023. This uptick signals some recovery in local vehicle assembly in the current month.

for elections and “we will support the election commission in administrative, financial and security matters”.

Every political party was playing role of the victim, he said, adding “if you ask PTI they will say we are not getting level-playing field especially in Punjab and KPK and if you ask Peoples Party they will say we are not getting level-playing field in Punjab.”

“Likewise, if you ask PML-N they will say we are not getting level-playing field in Sindh. If you ask Maulana Fazlu Rehman of JUI they will say we are not getting level playing field in Balochistan and KPK due to security issues,” the minister noted.

He said the caretaker government had no vested in-

terests in any political party. “We are there to provide any kind of support to the election commission which is responsible for holding the elections and creating conducive environment.”

“We should wait for the results after elections conducted on February 8. Once people speak their mind when they go to polls to elect a party or a group of party I am sure we will get political stability,” the minister said in response to another query.

He said it was written in the preamble of the constitution that the country would be run by the people’s representatives through credible elections.

As regards the Pakistan and Afghanistan relation, he said it was squarely depended on the behaviours and actions of the interim government of Afghanistan.

“If they continue harbor terrorists including TTP, I am afraid the future of those relations does not seem to be right,” he remarked.

He ruled out negotiation with any armed group until and unless they laid their arms and recognized the constitution of Pakistan as governing document the supreme law of land.

To another query, he said elections were on the cards both in India and Pakistan and “once we have elected governments in both countries and they got fresh mandates, we can hope that they will discuss the issues including long standing disputes both the countries have since three quarters of a century.”

Pakistan-China trade in yuan surges to 14% in 2023 g

SHIFT TO RMB IN TRADE TRANSACTIONS NOT ONLY SIGNIFICANT FOR PAKISTAN BUT ALSO A GLOBAL TREND PROFIT

NEWS DESK

The volume of bilateral trade between China and Pakistan conducted in the Chinese yuan (RMB) has seen a significant increase, reaching more than 14 percent in 2023, up from just two percent in 2018.

This information was revealed by top officials of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) during a meeting with the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

The SBP has taken concrete steps to facilitate this shift by designating three banks – the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the Bank of China (BOC), and Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) – to establish local RMB clearing and settlement setups.

This move is part of a broader strategy to ease pressure on Pakistan’s balance of payments and stabilize its fluctuating foreign exchange reserves, which are predominantly in US dollars.

A senior official present at the January 3 SIFC meeting highlighted that the increase in RMB trade was a result of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the People’s Bank of China (PBC) and the SBP, authorizing ICBC to act as an RMB clearing bank in Pakistan.

This shift towards RMB in trade transactions is not only significant for Pakistan but also marks a global trend. According to NIKKEI Asia, the Chinese yuan has ascended to the fourth most used currency in global settlements.

In November, it surpassed Japan’s yen in international payments for the first time since January 2022, as reported by Swift international payment service. The yuan’s global usage for trade in November was at 4.61 percent, the highest since data collection began in 2015.

This increase is partly attributed to China’s push for using currencies other than the US dollar in its trade with countries like Russia, Middle East, and South America, particularly following Western sanctions on Russia due to its invasion of Ukraine.

In Pakistan, the increased use of the Chinese currency is also evident in its trade with Russia, particularly for fuel transactions, further underscoring the yuan’s growing prominence in international trade.

Finance minister projects 2-2.5pc economic growth in FY24 g

RECOMMENDS IPO MARKET REVIVAL TO ATTRACT MORE DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN INVESTMENT PROFIT

NEWS DESK

Pakistan’s economic growth is expected to be between 2 and 2.5 percent for the fiscal year 2024 primarily driven by the agriculture and industrial sectors, says Caretaker Finance Minister Dr Shamshad Akhtar in her virtual address to ‘IPO Summit 2024’ on Saturday.

Dr. Akhtar, however, expressed concern over the lack of activity in the initial public offerings (IPOs) at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), noting that only one IPO was launched in 2023.

She emphasized the need to revive the IPO market to attract investment and diversify business financing. On the fiscal front, Dr. Akhtar projected that tax revenue collection would likely exceed the target of Rs9.4 trillion, potentially reaching Rs10 trillion by the end of the year.

She also pointed out the improvement in the country’s foreign exchange reserves, which have increased from $4 billion to $9.1 billion during her tenure as finance minister.

Regarding monetary policy, the finance minister mentioned that the State Bank of Pakistan

(SBP) is considering a reduction in the policy rate, currently at a record 22%, to boost economic activity. She noted that any decision on rate cuts would be contingent on the easing of recent high inflation levels.

Dr. Akhtar commended the Pakistan Stock Exchange for its performance, with a 55% return in 2023, ending the year at over 62,450 points.

She highlighted the PSX’s role as a crucial capital source for the private sector and urged efforts to expand the investor base, which has been stagnant at about 200,000 for some time.

PML-N expels Mehtab Abbasi for ‘violating party discipline’ LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Saturday expelled its longtime Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leader Sardar Mehtab Abbasi over “what it described as continuously violating party discipline.”

According to details, the PML-N also terminated the basic party membership of Abbasi – who has served as chief minister and governor of Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa (KP) governor.

In a statement, PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal said: “Mehtab Abbasi has been expelled for continuous “violation of party discipline.” “The action was taken on instructions of party President Shehbaz Sharif,” he added.

The development came a day after Former Sardar Mehtab Abbasi announced his support for PTI member, who is contesting as ‘independent candidate’ from Abbottabad’s NA-17 constituency.

Abbasi announced his support to PTI-backed ‘independent candidate’ Ali Khan Jadoon for NA-17 constituency in Abbottabad.

Meanwhile, the former KP governor would contest election as independent candidate as NA-16 constituency.

Last year in Dec, Sardar Mehtab Abbasi parted ways with PML-N while expressing concerns about the provincial leadership, saying that the leadership only thinks of itself and its structure in

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is over.

Furthermore, he said he had differences with Nawaz Sharif on principles but nothing with Maryam Nawaz. “There should be democracy in political parties, hypocritical thinking and attitude have become important in PML-N,” he claimed.

Abbasi further said that Nawaz Sharif has a weak team and solving the economic crisis is difficult.

“Today the PML-N is only limited to Punjab,” he added.

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EFFORTS UNDERWAY TO DRAFT SECOND VERSION OF NATIONAL MINERAL POLICY AND UPDATE MINES ACT OF 1923 PROFIT

NEWS DESK

In a strategic effort to attract foreign investment in mining following the out-of-court settlement of the Reko Diq project, Pakistan is partnering with Kuwait to establish a $1 billion mining fund.

A Pakistani state-owned company has been chosen to lead the collaboration with Kuwait for this fund.

Initial discussions between the two countries have been positive, with a Kuwaiti company expressing interest in mining metals and minerals for renewable energy use. A detailed plan, including timelines, is expected to be presented to a joint working group to advance the fund’s development.

The Pakistani government has already established a Mineral Cell under the Petroleum Division and is actively revising the National Mineral Policy to encourage foreign investment, particularly in Balochistan’s mineral-rich areas.

Efforts are underway to draft the second version of the National Mineral Policy and update the Mines Act of 1923.

The government is also working on modifying the Provincial Mineral Concession Rules and considering amendments to the Regulation of Mines and Oilfields and Mineral Development (Government Control) Act, 1948, to make the sector more attractive to foreign investors.

Past inconsistencies in policies and regulatory challenges have been identified as major obstacles to foreign investment in Pakistan. For instance, issues surrounding the Reko Diq copper and gold mining project led to international arbitration, prompting the government to introduce the Foreign Investment Act to safeguard investors’ interests.

Pakistan is also seeking investment from other Gulf countries, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, for its mining sector.

The recent memorandum of understanding with Kuwait, signed during the caretaker prime minister’s visit last year, includes investment cooperation and water supply projects essential for mining in Balochistan’s Chagai district. Additionally, Pakistan’s government is in ongoing discussions with the UAE for similar collaborations in mining. A recent conference in Saudi Arabia also indicates potential investment interests in Pakistan’s mining sector.

Pakistan sees 14% fall in petroleum group imports in first half of FY23-24

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IMPORTS OF PETROLEUM GROUP STOOD AT $8.005 BILLION, COMPARED TO $9.285 BILLION DURING JULY-DECEMBER PROFIT

NEWS DESK

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), Pakistan’s imports of the petroleum group marked a decline of 13.78 percent during the first half (JulyDecember) of the current fiscal year 2023-24. The imports stood at $8.005 billion, compared to $9.285 billion during the same period of the last fiscal year.

The PBS data also showed that on a year-on-year basis, petroleum group imports decreased by 2.11 percent to $1.55 billion in December 2023, down from $1.585 billion in December 2022.

However, there was an 8.91 percent month-on-month growth compared to $1.424 million in November 2023. Specifically, petroleum products imports saw a 24 percent decrease during July-December 2023-24, totaling $3.193 billion compared to $4.202 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal year.

In December 2023, petroleum products imports grew by 6.65 percent month-on-month, reaching $532.615 million, but declined by 18.04 percent year-on-year from $649.862 million in December 2022.

Overall, Pakistan’s imports for the July-December period of fiscal year 2023-24 amounted to $26.266 billion, a decrease of 15.84 percent from $31.209 billion in the corresponding period of the previous year. December 2023 imports were $4.650 billion, up 2.45 percent from November 2023’s $4.539 billion but down 9.60 percent from $5.144 million in December 2022. The main commodities imported in December 2023 included petroleum crude, petroleum products, natural gas (liquefied), electric machinery and apparatus, palm oil, plastic materials, mobile phones, iron and steel, iron and steel scrap, and motor cars (ckd/skd).

Pakistan’s stock market set to soar in 2024: report g

TWO MAJOR CHECKPOINTS INCLUDING EXTERNAL FUNDING FACILITIES, ESPECIALLY IMF PROGRAM AND GENERAL ELECTIONS, WILL LARGELY DRIVE MOMENTUM, AKD RESEARCH PROFIT

NEWS DESK

Pakistan’s stock market is expected to reach above 80,000 levels by the end of 2024, as the country undergoes economic reforms, monetary easing, and improved macroeconomic indicators.

According to a research report by AKD Research, the market movement will be erratic over 2024, due to two major checkpoints which include the external funding facilities, especially the IMF program, and

the general elections in early February 2024.

However, these events will also create opportunities for investors to buy stocks at low valuations, as the market currently trades at multi-year low price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios.

Interest rates will decline by 500 basis points over 2024, starting from March, as the inflationary pressures ease and the money supply growth slows down. The average consumer price index (CPI) is also expected to drop from 25.3% in 2024 to 11.5% in 2025.

The lower interest rates will benefit the cyclical and leveraged sectors, such as cements, steel, and fertilizers, as well as the banking sector, which will enjoy higher net interest margins and lower provisioning costs.

The report also highlights the positive economic undercurrents led by the recent measures taken by the caretaker government, which include fiscal consolidation, exchange rate stability, and structural reforms.

The report estimates the fiscal deficit to be 7.0% of GDP in 2024, while the external funding gap of $4-5 billion will be met by the

support from Saudi Arabia, China, and UAE. However, the uncertainty regarding the external funding situation is a risk factor, especially the status of a new IMF program, which is crucial for bridging the net funding gap of US$4-5 billion over the next 12 months.

The report recommends a bullish stance on the stock market, with a thematic focus on three factors, including the economic reform process, the monetary easing, and the undemanding valuations.

The brokerage house recommended a diversified portfolio of stocks that are ex-

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

pected to outperform the market in 2024, based on their fundamentals, growth potential, and valuations. The preferred sectors include banks, oil and gas, oil marketing companies, power, and cyclicals.

The top picks are Meezan Bank, United Bank, MCB, Bank Alfalah, Hub Power Company, Oil and Gas Development Company, Mari Petroleum, Pakistan State Oil, Attock Petroleum, Lucky Cement, Maple Leaf Cement, Fauji Cement, Mughal Iron and Steel Industries, Fauji Fertilizer, Engro Fertilizers, and Fauji Fertilizer Bin Qasim.