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CARETAKERS LEAVING, NEW GOVT COMING AFTER FEB 8 POLLS: PM In partnership with

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Monday, 5 February, 2024 I 24 Rajab, 1445

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LAUDS COAS FOR A SWIFT, APPROPRIATE, AND MEASURED RESPONSE TO ATTACK ON PAKISTANI SOIL ISLAMABAD

SAYS HIS CABINET’S LAST MEETING WOULD TAKE UP PRIVATIZATION OF PIA, FWB, AND OTHER ENTITIES

STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar Sunday said the caretaker government would be leaving and the new government would be formed after the elections on February 8, putting all speculations and conspiracy theories to rest. In an interview with a private television, PM Kakar said from day one there was no doubt that the elections would be held on time and now this would be happening in the coming days after all the speculations. The caretaker government performed its duties according to the constitutional mandate and he would take responsibility for all the decisions taken during its tenure, he added. To a question, he said, “Our democracy is evolving and we are a transitional democracy with all its flaws and weaknesses.” Parliament would be formed after the polls and it would take up necessary constitutional and legal reforms to strengthen democracy according to suggestions from different strata of society, he remarked. The prime minister said that terrorism was a serious issue and its surge happened due to withdrawal of the United States and NATO forces from Afghanistan, who left behind modern weapons which came in possession of terrorist groups. “We have taken up a clear position against the terrorist groups and the law enforcement agencies are steadfastly taking on the terrorists with bravery,” he observed. He said that the terror groups who wanted to become part of the mainstream of Pakistan should be given an opportunity to engage for talks.

The prime minister said during his tenure, he represented Pakistan at the United Nations and interacted with the world leaders and explained Pakistan’s perspective to them. He said he also met with the Chinese leadership, policymakers and think tanks at the Belt and Road Forum in China to exchange ideas on achieving shared prosperity for humanity. “We signed 10 memorandums of understanding with China on increasing cooperation, especially on the projects of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).” He appreciated the army chief for the swift, appropriate and measured response in the aftermath of the attack on the Pakistani soil from Iran. Pakistan de-escalated the situation with Iran and now there was realization that both countries could not afford deterioration in

the bilateral relations, he added. To a question, he said his government increased aid to Gaza threefold and with the institutional input, advocated the cause of Palestine from the platform of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The Islamic world should unite behind the people of Palestine and the Palestinians should decide for themselves their future course, he opined. He said Pakistan categorically told the European Union countries that the situation in the Gaza would have a long time effect in the arena of international affairs. He said, “After I assumed charge, the biggest crises before me were economy, rising inflation, volatile exchange rate, tax collection, spending of the government and circular debt.” His government stabilized the economy

Rain lashes Karachi for second day as parts of city still submerged KARACHI

STAFF REPORT

Heavy downpours lashed Karachi for the second day on Sunday as many parts of the port city are still submerged in the rainwater. The areas that experienced heavy to moderate rains for the second day include North Karachi, Superhighway, Bufferzone, Nagan Chowrangi, Saadi Town, North Naziabad, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, New MA Jinnah Road, Nazimabad, I.I. Chundrigar Road, Saddar, Shah Faisal Scheme 33 and other areas Sunday morning. The Met Office said nimbus clouds persisted in central and northern areas of the city, which received rains intermittently. “The series of rains may continue intermittently till evening,” the meteorological department said adding that it was after 40 years that the city was witnessing such rainfall in February. Earlier today, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast that the weather in Karachi would remain cloudy and various

parts of the metropolis are likely to receive intermittent rain. The current temperature in the metropolis is 19.9 C, whereas winds are blowing at the speed of 8km an hour from northeast, the PMD said. It said the winds are expected to blow at the speed of 20-25 km an hour during the day. The humidity is recorded at 92 % in the metropolis, the Met Office said. Several areas of the city including major arteries are still clogged as rainwater has not been drained from there yet. This includes Qayyumabad Chowrangi, II Chundrigar Road, Burns Road, Arts Council, Korangi Industrial Area Road from Godown Chowrangi to Chamra Chowrangi, Shah Faisal Colony area near Shama Centre. Because of this, people have to take long routes to reach their destinations. Whereas, rainwater has been drained from Safoora Chowrangi, Gurumandir, Hassan Square and Essa Nagri. Several areas experienced hours-long power outages due to heavy rainfall. Electricity supply to Gulistan-e-Johar Block 8 and

Jamshed Road has been suspended since Saturday night. Heavy rain coupled with thunder and lightning Saturday night wreaked havoc in parts of Karachi as rainwater mixed with sewage overflowing from choked lines entered houses and hospitals in the port city. Areas that received downpours included Baldi Town, Orangi Town, North Karachi, Surjani Town, Gulshan-e-Maymar, Korangi, Landhi, DHA, Shah Faisal Colony, Malir, Orangi Town, Bahria Town, Saddar, North Nazimabad, Tower, Liaquatabad and Nazimabad. Following the rain, major arteries in the mega city were submerged with rainwater and commuters were stuck in their vehicles as the city administration had not taken any measures to cope with the rain, despite the PMD’s forecast for heavy rain a day earlier. Parts of the city’s main artery Sharea Faisal were completely submerged with water and scores of cars broke down that further disrupted the traffic movement on Saturday night.

Govt to review privatization plans for two LNG power plants g

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

MINISTERIAL GROUP DEEMS PRIVATIZATION OF HAVELI BAHADUR SHAH, BALLOKI POWER PLANTS INAPPROPRIATE PROFIT

MONITORING DESK

The Ministerial Group advised a reconsideration of the privatization of two LNG power plants due to concerns about the current investment climate. The decision to privatize these plants, established during the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s tenure with an LNG contract signed with the government of Qatar, is now under scrutiny. Sources indicate that the apex committee of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has directed a review of the potential privatization of Haveli Bahadur Shah and Balloki RLNG Power Plants, as reported by Express Tribune. A Ministerial Group was formed following the apex committee’s directions to evaluate the feasibility of privatization. After careful consideration, the Ministerial Group has concluded that the privatization of these two LNG power plants is not advisable at present, citing concerns about the overall investment climate. The group emphasized potential future gains from tariffs, estimated at Rs130.8 billion, and highlighted a clean book payout of Rs264 billion, with the RLNG

power plants already generating a profit of Rs153 billion. Qatar has expressed interest in acquiring these LNG-based power plants. In 2021, the Cabinet Committee on Energy exempted LNG-based power plants from a 66% guaranteed off-take of LNG. The PTI government also contemplated exempting the LNG power plants from the merit order. The power sector’s role in the re-gasified LNG supply chain is crucial, and disruptions in RLNG supply/demand can impact the economic dispatch of power. Lower RLNG supply may lead to operational constraints and system stability issues for the system operator. Exempting RLNG power plants from guaranteed offtake was influenced by private parties, particularly those interested in acquiring these LNG power plants. Currently, Pakistan State Oil (PSO) supplies LNG to SNGPL, which distributes it to the LNG power plants. Privatization of these LNG power plants is anticipated to face challenges, given the circular debt in the power sector and payment issues for electricity supplies. Addressing the concerns of power distribution companies (Discos) is recommended as a crucial step in managing circular debt in the power sector.

Rs 20.00 | Vol XIV No 218 I 8 Pages I Islamabad Edition

PM Kakar reiterates Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris freedom struggle

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has said that India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019 in IIOJK were a blatant violation of international law including the UN Charter, 4th Geneva Convention, and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. “India has since been engaged in efforts to further entrench these illegal measures through a series of steps aim at altering the demographic structure and political landscape of IIOJK,” the prime minister said in a message on the observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day on February 5. He said that the ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ was annually observed on the 5th February to express Pakistan’s unwavering support to the Kashmiri people’s just struggle for realization of their right to self-determination. It was also an occasion to pay rich tribute to the sacrifices made by their Kashmiri brothers and sisters during the last seventysix years, he added. The prime minister said that Pakistan had consistently main-

with the crackdown on smuggling and illegal trade of dollars, he told. “We kept dollar at Rs 180 and the level of inflation was kept stable and now the economic indicators are better. We took steps for simplification of tax collection system.” MoUs worth about $35 billion were signed with the United Arab Emirates and

tained that a lasting solution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute was possible only in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people. “Pakistan will continue to extend its unstinted moral, diplomatic and political support for this just cause,” Prime Minister Office Media Wing, in a press release, quoted the prime minister as saying. He further said that the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions provided that the final disposition of Jammu and Kashmir would be made in accordance with the will of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite conducted under the auspices of the United Nations. However, the caretaker prime minister said, over the last seventy-six years, India had carried out a relentless campaign to intimidate and suppress the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). STAFF REPORT

Qatar, he said, adding Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) took concrete measures for attracting investment. He said his government in the last cabinet meeting would take up the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines, the First Women Bank (FWB) and some other state owned entities.

02 NEWS

Monday, 5 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

PAKISTAN OBSERVES KASHMIR SOLIDARITY DAY TO REAFFIRMING SUPPORT FOR RIGHTS OF KASHMIRIS TODAY

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

AKISTANIS will observe Kashmir Solidarity Day on Feb 5 (Monday) with a renewed commitment to support the just struggle of the Kashmiris for their inalienable right to self-determination, as enshrined in the relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The people and the government of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir observe Solidarity Day every year not only to renew their love and affection with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kash-

PPP, ANP go for seat adjustment in Balochistan QUETTA

Staff RepoRt

There has been an alliance between Awami National Party (ANP) and Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) on various seats of National and provincial assemblies in Balochistan. An electoral alliance was formed between the two parties on National Assembly constituency NA-265, district Pishin and Balochistan Assembly constituencies PB-48 and PB-49. Candidate for PPP Khair Mohammad Tareen from constituency NA-265 Pishin district withdrew in favor of ANP’s candidate Rashid Khan Nasir. Constituency PB-48 candidate Bibi Kotra withdrew in favor of ANP candidate Obaidullah Abid. While, ANP candidate Asghar Ali Tareen from PB-49, withdrew in favor of PPP candidate Syed Nasir Agha.

Novelist, playwright Bano Qudsia remembered

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Renowned Pakistani novelist, playwright, short story writer and spiritualist Bano Qudsia was remembered on her seventh death anniversary on Sunday. Born on November 28, 1928, in Firozepur, Bano Qudsia was married to one of Pakistan’s finest writers Ashfaq Ahmed. Bano Qudsia’s famous novel “Raja Gidh” was considered a modern Urdu classic. Among her more prominent writings are “Aatish-i-zer-i-paa”, “Aik Din, Asay Pasay”, “Chahar Chaman”, “Chhotaa Sheher Baray Log”, “Footpath ki Ghaas”, “Haasil Ghaat” and “Hawa Kay Naam”. The most well-known plays she wrote include “Aadhi Baat”, “Tamasil”, “Hawa ke Naam”, “Seharay and Khaleej”. She was honoured with Sitara-iImtiaz by the Government of Pakistan in 1983. Bano Qudsia died on February 4, 2017, in Lahore, at the age of 88.

mir (IIOJ&K) but also to reiterate their commitment and dedication to the liberation of occupied Kashmir from Indian occupation. People from different walks of life, including doctors, lawyers, social activists, students and others will hold rallies and demonstrations, forming human chains across the country to infuse new spirits into the Kashmiris, who have long been fighting for their freedom. All Pakistani missions abroad will organise seminars and photo exhibitions to draw the world’s attention towards the worst form of subjugation and human rights violations committed by India in the IOJ&K. The national media, both electronic and

print, will air special programmes and print special supplements to highlight the significance of Kashmir Solidarity Day and the decades-long struggle of Kashmiri people against the illegal Indian occupation. Banners highlighting the plight of innocent Kashmiris have been put on display across the country, including airports, railway stations, and national highways. Observance of this day is also aimed at highlighting the long-standing unsettled dispute of Jammu and Kashmir internationally and apprising the people of occupied Kashmir that they are not alone in this hour of trial and turmoil. India has kept a major part of the in-

ternationally acknowledged disputed Himalayan Jammu Kashmir state in its illegal and forced occupation since October 27, 1947, against the aspirations of the people of Kashmir. India is using state terrorism against the Kashmiris, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, fake encounters, and staged cordon-andsearch operations. Over 900,000 Indian occupation forces have turned IIOJK into an open prison, but the desperation of the RSS-BJP dispensation to control the indigenous Kashmiri movement has completely run aground. Jammu and Kashmir’s dispute is one of the oldest pending items on the agenda of

1,688 candidates in run for 16 National, 51 Provincial assemblies seats in Balochistan ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

For 16 National Assembly and 51 Provincial Assembly general seats, as many as 1,688 candidates were set to contest the February 8, general elections. Key figures contesting elections from various constituencies of Balochistan include Maulana Fazlur Rahman, who heads Jamiat Ulema e Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani, Akhtar Mengal, former Chief Ministers Sardar Sanaullah Zehri, Jam Kamal Khan, Dr. Abdul Malik and Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidari, Sardar Yaqoob Khan Nasar, Khalid Magsi, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, and others. In the National Assembly Constituency NA-261, a major competition was underway featuring Balochistan National Party Chief Akhtar Jan Mengal, former Chief Minister Sanaullah Zehri, and former Deputy Chairman Senate Abdul Ghafoor Haidari. According to the details, the province has a total of 5.37 million registered voters, including 3.02 million male voters and 2.35 million female voters. Apart from the provincial capital Quetta, Pishin, and Khuzdar, National Assembly seat NA251 covers multiple districts, including Shirani, Zhob, and Qila Saifullah, with 17 candidates vying for victory. In NA-252, the constituency includes the districts of Musa Khel, Barkhan, Loralai, and Dikki. Thirty-five candidates, including two seasoned

politicians, Sardar Yakub Khan Nasir and Mir Baz Muhammad Khetran, were competing in this area. Moving on to NA-253, it encompasses Harnai, Sibi, Kohlu, and Dera Bugti. In Dera Bugti, around 30 candidates, including Nawabzada Shazin Bugti and Dostin Domki, were in the electoral race. Shifting focus to NA254, covers Jhal Magsi, Kachhi, and Nasirabad, with 27 candidates, including Khalid Magsi, Yar Muhammad Rand, and Humayun Aziz Kurd, competing for victory. In NA-255, which encompasses Sohbatpur, Jafarabad, Aosta Muhammad, and Naseerabad, a total of 46 candidates, including Mir Chingiz Khan Jamali and Mir Khan Muhammad Jamali, were participating in the electoral contest. In NA-256, spanning Khuzdar, 15 candidates, including Akhtar Jan Mengal, seek success. Moving to NA-257, covering Hub, Lasbela, and Awaran, 18 candidates, including Jam Kamal and Aslam Bhutani, were in the contest. Similarly, in NA-258, encompassing Panjgur and Kech, 18 candidates were vying for victory. In NA-259, covering Kech and Gwadar, 20 candidates, including Dr. Abdul Malik and Kahida Babar, were in contention. Moving to NA-260, spanning Chagai, Nushki, Kharan, and Washik, 25 candidates were competing. In NA-261, 27 candidates were vying for success. In NA-262, Quetta-I, 38 candidates were participating. In NA-263, which

includes Quetta-II, 46 candidates, including Mehmood Khan Achakzai and Lashkari Raisani, were in the race. For NA-264, covering Quetta-III, 35 candidates, including Akhtar Mengal, Humayun Aziz Kurd, and Nawabzada Mir Jamal Khan Raisani, were in the fray. In the race for NA-265 covering Pishin, 23 candidates, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman, were vying. Meanwhile, for NA-266, which includes Qila Abdullah and Chaman, 20 candidates, including Mahmood Khan Achakzai, were competing. A total of 22 candidates were vying for seats in Balochistan Assembly Constituency PB-1: 20 for PB-2, 20 for PB3, 29 for PB-4, 31 for PB-5, and 41 for PB-6;32 for PB-7; 24 for PB-8; 31 for 9; 15 for PB-10; 12 for PB-11;28 competing for securing a seat in PB-12; 33 for PB-13;26 for PB-14; 21 for PB-15; 33 for PB-16; 25 for PB-17;14 for PB18;19 for PB-19; 10 for PB-20;10 for PB-21;17 for PB-22; 9 for PB-23;15 for PB-24;16 for PB-25; 15 for PB-26;20 for PB-27;16 for PB-28;11 for PB-29;9 for PB-30;19 for PB-31;32 for PB32;19 for PB-33;19 for PB-34;16 for PB-35;36 for PB-36;21 for PB-37;26 for PB-38;43 for PB-39;38 for PB-40; 45 contesting for PB-41;62 contesting to secure PB-42;49 are in the field for PB-43;25 for PB-44;35 for PB-45;36 for PB-46;23 for PB-47;26 for PB-48; 22 for PB-49;23 for PB-50 and 23 candidates are in the arena for securing provincial assembly seat PB-51.

Controversial verdict of Imran’s marriage case crosses all limits: Farhatullah Babar LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Senior leader of Farhatullah Babar, has strongly criticized the recent verdict in the marriage case against Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, labeling it as an unwarranted overstep. Babar expressed his disdain, stating that the verdict has crossed all boundaries and tarnished the regime’s reputation. He asserted that those advocating against involving women in politics would vehemently oppose this decision. In a parallel reaction, senior journalist and anchor Shahzad Iqbal decried the verdict in the alleged illegal marriage case involving the Tehreek-e-Insaf founder and his wife. Iqbal found the

case to be shameful, highlighting the unusual nature of a man recalling, after five years, that his wife got married during her Idda. He questioned the judge’s ability to determine a woman’s completion of three periods, emphasizing the personal nature of such information. In the illegal marriage case, Judge Qudratullah issued a detailed 51-page written decision, declaring the marriage between PTI founder Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi on January 1, 2018, as illegal. The judgment acknowledged Khawar Manika’s success in proving the marriage’s illegality, citing evidence of bad faith and intentional fraud. According to the court verdict, Khawar Manika substantiated that the marriage ceremony on January 1, 2018,

was conducted in bad faith, with the petitioner proving the marriage took place with fraudulent intent. The judgment noted Khawar Maneka’s affidavit, acknowledging relations between PTI founder and Bushra Bibi during sit-ins, and corroborated solitary meetings between them. While both PTI founder and Bushra Bibi are in custody, the court issued a warrant of commitment to Jail Superintendent Adiala, Rawalpindi, for the enforcement of their sentences. The written judgment highlighted evidence of links between PTI founder and Bushra Bibi even before their marriage in January 2018, as attested by Khawar Maneka, who stated their relationship developed after the 2014 sit-in.

Chief secretary inaugurates art gallery at Nasser Bagh LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

The chief secretary of Punjab inaugurated on Sunday a new art gallery developed by the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) at the historic Nasser Bagh in Lahore. Zahid Akhtar Zaman served as the chief guest amidst a star-studded gathering, attended by both artists and members of the general public. Prominent guests included painter Imran Qureshi. The Barracks, as the gallery has been named, has been opened in a spacious basement at the park previously occupied by the Department of Civil Defence. The PHA has

extensively renovated the place to house the gallery for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. The opening exhibition, titled “The Garden,” showcased a diverse collection of artistic expressions. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Zaman congratulated PHA Director General Muhammad Tahir Wattoo for spearheading this initiative. He expressed a keen desire for the establishment of more such venues to explore the expansive field of art further. Mr Wattoo, in his remarks, likened painters to dreamers, highlighting how their art often looks like a dream, with disparate elements coming together to make one picture. Concurring with the chief secretary, he acknowledged the potential for additional art galleries in the provincial capital.

Nestled between Lower Mall and Katchery Road, the British-era park neighbours Government College University (GCU), the University of the Punjab, and the National College of Arts (NCA). It is frequented by locals seeking a quick respite from the hustle of urban life. The PHA has recently renovated Nasser Bagh to enhance its visual appeal. According to Mr Wattoo, it has planted lush green grass, prepared colorful flower beds, and installed floodlights. The park’s fountain has also been revitalised and preventive measures against dengue, such as the application of anti-larva medicine, have been implemented. Its boundary wall has also been removed to provide a fresh visual experience, he added.

the UN Security Council. The dispute remains unresolved due to India’s obstinate refusal to honor its commitments and its disrespect for fundamental human rights and international law. India’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019, are also in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, the 4th Geneva Convention, and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions stipulating that the final disposition of the state of Jammu and Kashmir would be made in accordance with the will of the people expressed through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite conducted under the auspices of the United Nations.

Ready to work with Nawaz Sharif: Jahangir Tareen

MULTAN

Staff RepoRt

Jahangir Tareen, the Chairman of the Istehkam-ePakistan Party (IPP), declared at an election rally in Multan that in the event of the government formation, he will collaborate with Nawaz Sharif, who will serve as their leader. Addressing the crowd, Tareen, rooted in Multan, expressed his commitment to improving the local economy, ensuring salary increments for workers, and working collectively to make the country prosper. He emphasized the need for prayer and unity, stating that regardless of political affiliations, everyone must work together for the nation’s betterment. Tareen predicted economic growth, job creation, and national development under Nawaz Sharif’s leadership, aiming for a brighter future post-February 8. Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-N President and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif countered allegations of corruption during a press conference at the party secretariat in Lahore. He highlighted a recent report from Transparency International, asserting that the corruption index decreased during Nawaz Sharif’s tenure. Shehbaz Sharif dismissed accusations of corruption related to the motorway project, emphasizing its positive impact on millions of people. He criticized the 2018 government formation, labeling it as the result of rigging and witchcraft, and urged the public to decide the country’s future through votes on February 8.

Chinese and Pakistani universities to establish Civil Aviation School HANGZHOU

Staff RepoRt

The University of Sargodha (UoS) and the Civil Aviation University China (CAUC) have agreed to explore cooperation avenues and establish a Civil Aviation School at UoS in Punjab. During his visit to China to attend the First Forum on Asian Development at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, UoS Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, met with the President of CAUC. The meeting aimed to foster international collaboration and educational advancement in aviation. An official statement revealed that Dr. Abbas’s proposal received enthusiastic support from the CAUC President, initiating a significant partnership in aviation education. The collaboration extends beyond establishing the school, with plans for faculty and student exchange programs, joint research, and organizing conferences, seminars, and workshops. Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas expressed gratitude for the warm reception and the mutual commitment to enhancing aviation education and research, Gwadar Pro reported on Sunday.

On a white charger, scimitar in hand City NoteS M.a. Niazi T might not be easy to see the revelations about the corruption in Ukraine’s contracts for artillery shells as relevant to Pakistan. We know with certainty that there will be no such thing here because there is a foolproof accountability mechanism which prevents any such misdeeds from being committed. Besides, our soldiers are above such mundane temptations, being too imbued with the spirit of sacrifice and love for the motherland. What do you expect from Ukraine, which had put a joker in charge? Whatever else, Imran Khan is accused of, being funny isn’t one of them. Maybe towards the end of a distinguished cricketing career opening batsmen laughed at him, but for decades, laughing was not something they did much. Brave out his overs was more like it. Survival was the name of the game, not laughing. However, Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelenskyy proved that he is a fellow of infinite jest by going ahead with the corruption probe without asking Imran’s permission, It was probably just a ramp, a put-up job, meant to brush over the traces, without punishing. Now if Imran was in that situation, of being a war leader, first we should remember that he would be on a white charger, leading the troops against the enemy, wielding a scimitar to great effect against their tanks and cannon. Occasionally, he would bring out his secret weapon, the inswinging yorker, but presumably only when they attempted an armoured breakout. I don’t know if anyone remembers now, but one of the problems the country faced in 1965 was a shortage of shells for the cannon bought from the USA. They wouldn’t let us buy the shells, so once we used up what we had, the guns would fall silent. So by 1971, we had learnt to make those shells. Didn’t win us that particular War though. Anyhow, back to Imran on a white charger, pointing at the enemy with his scimitar. In that situation, to find that

someone in the Defence Ministry was trying to make $40 million off mortar rounds, in his present mood, he would be only too delighted to turn the head of his charger towards the Defence Ministry. Perhaps Imran needs to go back to cricket for inspiration. Not to the national cricket team, which is presently out of action in any format, but to the West Indies, and to England. Those two have pulled off two of the most remarkable wins in Test history, both playing matches which would be remembered on their own for decades, but were an absolute miracle to have ending on the same day. England beat India by 28 runs in the First Test at Hyderabad. That margin wasn’t really the miracle, as the fact that India had led by 190 runs in the first innings. Back in 1967, in what has also the First Test, only in England, it was England which took the massive lead, 286 runs. India fought back, making 550 in the follow-on, but it was still England that won, but only by six wickets. Well, Imran must be hoping that some of the magic will rub off on his party. Problem is, it’s not going to be as easy as a

cricket match. It won’t be simply a matter of winning as independents. Imran will have to get his convictions overturned, get elected, and then get the PM his party picked, replaced. As a matter of fact, that’s one possibility.Has anyone notice, but ever since Parliaments have begun running for their full tenure, PMs get replaced around the three-year mark. Is it purely a coincidence that Imran will free himself of his legal troubles around the time the Parliament would have run about three years. And Imran shouldn’t forget that maybe

the West Indies and England didn’t win so much as Australia and England lost. Overconfidence? It could have happened. Just as they assumed the couldn’t lose, maybe the PTI assumption that can win without support, symbol or supplies might be exaggerated. Well, we should know by the time it’s time for the next edition of these notes. Well, being under pressure helped the PTI put on the first virtual rally, and had a virtual Imran have the first AI-generated speech. Watch the Indian election for these ideas to be taken to the next level.

MOFA VOWS SMOOTH DEGREE ATTESTATION IN LAHORE’S LIASON OFFICE

NEWS 03

Monday, 5 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

INISTRY of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said that it regret the inconvenience faced by the public at MOFa’s Liaison Office in Lahore in the initial days of operation from its new premises. In a statement issued, FO said: “As announced earlier, the consular services were suspended for a few days as the Liaison Of-

NA-127: Police fails to submit report to ECP on PML-N, PPP tensions

fice was temporarily closed on account of relocation to a new site. Since the resumption of consular services on 1 February 2024, our dedicated and efficient staff has been working extra hours to service the public.” “We expect the backlog to clear over the next few days,” the spokesperson said. “We appreciate the public’s understanding during this time of transition,” he added. Earlier this week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also opened its Liaison Office in Gujrat, which is expected to relieve

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Police has failed to submit its report to the ECP over tension between the PML-N and the PPP in Lahore’s NA-127. The election commission had taken notice of the situation in the constituency and summoned report from the government of Punjab. The electoral body has expressed its concern over delay in submission of the incident reported to the election commission. Provincial Election Commissioner of Punjab has said that the Punjab government not yet submitted its report. The election commission has directed the DC Lahore to take prompt action and submit report. Chairman Pakistan People’s Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari contesting election from Lahore’s NA-127. The PML-N has fielded party loyalist Ata Tarar against Bilawal Bhutto in the constituency. PPP spokesperson Zulfiqar Ali Badar said that Ata Tarar attacked the People’s Party office along with 250 supporters. “We have filed a plea to police for registering FIR but it has not been registered so far,” he said. “The decision makers should inform if there are two separate laws for the PML-N and other parties,” he questioned. He urged action from caretaker provincial government and demanded declaring Ata Tarar as disqualified. “We are winning election in NA-127 and don’t want any hassle,” he added.

Pakistani delegation visits Deep Space Exploration Laboratory in China BEIJING

Staff RepoRt

A Pakistani delegation led by Mohammad Yousuf Khan, Chairman of Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission visited the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory in Hefei, China to forge a stronger space partnership with China in deep space exploration endeavours. During the visit, the Pakistani side led by Mohammad Yousuf Khan, Chairman of the Commission and Wu Weiren, Director of Deep Space Exploration Laboratory engaged in extensive discussions on future deep space exploration missions. The meeting held recently was also attended by the engineers from the Chang’e-8 mission. Wu Weiren presented an overview of China’s progress in lunar and planetary exploration missions to the delegation and said that the inclusion of Pakistan’s ICUBE-Q CubeSat on the Chang’e-6 mission has expanded the collaboration between the two countries in the field of deep space exploration and laid a solid foundation for international lunar scientific research cooperation, as per local media. Mohammad Yousuf Khan introduced the basic details of Pakistan’s proposed collaborative projects on the Chang’e-8 mission and expressed a willingness to further enhance bilateral cooperation in lunar exploration. “The laboratory is currently establishing an International Society for Deep Space Exploration, with the objective of fostering an international platform dedicated to scientific research and academic exchanges in lunar and planetary exploration, with a particular focus on significant engineering tasks. Wu warmly welcomed Pakistani scientists to become members of this society and extended an invitation to the Pakistani delegation to participate in China’s Space Day in April and the upcoming Tian Du International Conference scheduled for the second half of the year. The visit between the Pakistan delegation and China’s Deep Space Exploration Laboratory signifies the strengthening of space cooperation between the two nations.

pressure on the Lahore Liaison Office. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remained committed to facilitating the public and providing efficient and timely consular services. After you get your degrees attested from the Higher Education Commission (HEC), you can approach the MOFA offices in Islamabad as well as provincial liaison offices in Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, and Peshawar along with the liaison offices in Gujrat and other cities. You can submit the documents by hand at any of the offices mentioned and get the degrees

back on the same day. On the other hand, the applicant can also courier his or her documents through an approved courier service provider from a town, village, or city of Pakistan and get the documents attested. The time duration for the return of documents varies and usually, it takes two weeks to get back the documents. All the educational documents that you can attest to by the MOFA firstly must be verified by HEC. You can visit the MOFA website for further information.

New Delhi losing battle of hearts and minds in held Kashmir LAHORE app

Political experts and analysts have urged the international community, particularly the UN, to stand up for the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), who are facing the worst and most brutal violations of their human rights in the internationally recognized disputed territory. Political experts and analysts said on Sunday that Kashmir had been a burning issue since the Partition of the Indian Subcontinent in 1947. Pakistan and India have fought three wars over Kashmir in 1948, 1965, and 1999, but have been unable to settle the dispute. After the Partition of Indian Subcontinent, millions of Kashmiris felt unsafe and uncertain about their fate. They were required to accede to either of the two countries on the basis of wishes of their people and the geographical location. Since 1947, Article 370 had given Jammu and Kashmir a semi-autonomous constitutional status. Earlier, under its provisions, the region had freedom in all matters except its constitution, legislature, flag, foreign affairs, communications and defence. Anger has simmered in the region and the situation further worsened when Narendra Modi-led regime on August 5, 2019 abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, by repealing articles 370 and 35-A. Meanwhile, Modi-led BJP government imposed a lockdown in the occupied Kashmir, allowing Indian forces to perpetrate unspeakable crimes against the masses, with complete impunity. In IIOJK, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and other bodies have

ISLAMABAD

The concerned citizens and experts have urged the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to refrain from violating the Islamabad High Court (IHC) verdict on the Islamabad Zoo. Moving a summary to the Federal Cabinet to reestablish the zoo in Islamabad will be a sheer violation of the IHC verdict, and it should be challenged in the court. They said CDA will be opposed for its connivance to cage the wild animals or to chain them again. It is the worst form of cruelty in the absence of technical and financial capacity of the CDA to regain the land to establish the zoo. An online discussion on the subject was organized by the Devcom-Pakistan (Development Communications Network) and DTN on Saturday afternoon, a

KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, advised the citizens to cast their vote after considering the after-effects of the recent rain that submerged Karachi. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, in a statement on Sunday, criticized the current Mayor of Karachi stating that the recent downpour in the metropolis exposed the poor performance of Murtaza Wahab, as no arrangements were made for the citizens suffering from various issues in the city. “The newly constructed roads and sewage system were completely ‘destroyed’ in the rain, only volunteers of Jamaat-e-Islami and Al-Khidmat are present on the roads for rescue,” he asserted. He further criticized the city government for not taking the necessary steps – like clearing the nullah – despite the repeated warnings of rain in Karachi from the meteorological department. Hafiz Naeemur Rahman asserted that not even 10 percent of the approved grant for Karachi was utilized for its development. “70 percent of the grant for the development work is embezzled, what standard work will you expect from the contractor from the rest of the budget?” he stated. He added that the entire city was submerged, and people were stuck in traffic after yesterday’s rain, while the local representatives of Jamaat-e-Islami were on the streets all night to facilitate the citizens stuck on the roads.

Political rivals pose challenge to Aftab Sherpao, Aimal Wali in Charsadda PESHAWAR

strongly condemned the Modi-led fascist Indian government for forcibly implementing secret and nefarious agenda by usurping all fundamental rights of the people of Kashmir, including social, political, economic and religious rights. Ending the old status of Kashmir is an attempt to usurp the rights of Kashmiri people by eradicating their fundamental rights related to their social, linguistic, cultural, economic and political existence, former chairperson HRCP told APP. By abrogating the Article-370 and Article-35A, Indian parliament illegally allowed non-Kashmiris to resettle in Kashmir permanently. Whereas actually, the Constitution of Kashmir first defines membership and settlement. According to this amendment, nonKashmiris are now allowed to buy property, keep it and settle in Kashmir permanently, the sources said. According

to the current change, regarding land as a sole property, will not allow them to live on land as they have historically been doing. These changes will also subject to population-rearrangement in Kashmir, they informed while replying to a query. Moreover, the Indian forces were using rape, molestation and sexual violence against women and children as a weapon of war, besides collective punishment, in a bid to suppress the legitimate freedom movement in the occupied valley,” they said. Unfortunately, Kashmiris have speculated since decades, that India intends to settle paramilitary families and military settlements there, as well as establishment of semi-permanent military colonies in Kashmir. Indigenous Kashmiris, have long faced threats to their existence as well as their inherited rights, especially ‘relative’ land rights. This will make indigenous peoples aliens.

Pakistan dispatches fifth batch of relief goods to Gaza ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan dispatched on Sunday the fifth batch of relief supplies to the besieged Palestinian enclave of Gaza via a special Pakistan Air Force flight from Noor Khan Air Base. The shipment contains warm tents, tarpaulins, blankets, surgical/medical supplies, dry food items, and hygiene kits as per the ground needs in Gaza. A PAF C-130 will carry the aid to Al Arish, Egypt, where the Pakistani ambassador will receive the aid, after which the supplies will be sent towards their final destination. Officers from the National Disaster

Management Authority (NDMA), Ministry of External Affairs and armed forces attended the departure ceremony at Noor Khan Air Base. Besides, a sixth batch of relief shipment has also been arranged by NDMA and is scheduled to depart from Karachi on February 6. The batch will contain 100 tons of relief goods for the people of Gaza. Until now, a total of 230 tons of humanitarian aid have been sent by Pakistan to the suffering people of Gaza through five flights. Pakistan stands firm with their Palestinian brothers and sisters in this phase of difficulty, with arrangements for more aid supplies underway. The NDMA said it has dispatched

230 tons of relief items to the people of Palestine since Israel’s war on Gaza kicked off in October last year. “More assistance is also planned, demonstrating Pakistan’s commitment to solidarity and seeking a peaceful resolution,” the NDMA said. Pakistan, which does not have diplomatic ties with Israel, has condemned the killing of Palestinian people in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire. Earlier on January 14, Pakistan dispatched the fourth batch of relief supplies to Gaza from Noor Khan Air Base. The shipment contained about 20 tons of essential items including surgical/medical supplies, dry food items and hygiene kits.

Staff RepoRt

As only five days left in the General Election 2024, the candidates of various political parties and independents geared campaign on NA 24 Charsadda-1 where political stalwarts are posing a serious challenge to Qumi Watan Party Chairman and former interior minister, Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao in native constituency. Known as a stronghold of ANP and Qumi Watan Party, Aftab Sherpao is again contesting the election from his home constituency where he is being challenged by ANP, JUIF, PTI and Pakistan Peoples Party candidates. Winning the 2002, 2008 and 2013 elections despite defeat in the last election, Aftab Sherpao expedited election campaign to persuade voters besides approaching large tribes to win their support. In the 2013 election, Sherpao won the constituency with 37,044 votes against Munhamir Khan who bagged 33,836 votes. However, Aftab Sherpao had lost to PTI’s Anwar Taj as the former stood in third position. The women of Charsadda, constituting 45% of registered voters and are eying on resolutions of their socioeconomic, education and environmental challenges besides seeking jobs. The voters are demanding the establishment of a medical and Cadet College, improved health and education facilities, and economic empowerment for women. Senior vice-chairman of the ‘Muttahida’ Shopkeepers Federation, Sadiqullah said that inadequate healthcare and education facilities, insufficient transport infrastructure, and unfulfilled promises regarding road coverage are major challenges of the constituency and any candidate with the solid program for its resolutions would get an edge over others. He said a medical and cadet college was approved 15 years ago and it was yet to be established in the constituency. He urged the prospective representatives to address these problems and alleviate the burden on the common people. Meena Taj, an advocate for women’s rights, emphasized the need for economic empowerment, education, and a change in societal attitudes.

Rain lashes Karachi for second day as parts of city still submerged CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

As the rainwater entered the Drigh Road underpass and could not be drained for a long period, chaos ensued on Sharea Faisal. No emergency response by the city administration showed as if the rain had taken them by surprise and they had no preparations. The Gizri underpass was also flooded with rainwater and was closed for the traffic movement. District Central’s Nagan Chowrangi, Five Star Chowrangi, Disco Mor and Surjani Town were also completely flooded with rainwater. In a few areas, rainwater also entered houses. In District East, the under-construction University Road was completely flooded with rainwater bringing traffic to a standstill for hours. Many people returning from offices were stuck on roads for hours before they could reach homes. A statement issued by the officer of Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab said drainage work was commenced in

areas after rainfall had subsided there. The mayor directed the relevant municipal officials to ensure that rainwater was not accumulated in any area. Commuters faced troubles due to accumulated water mixed with sewage overflowing from choked lines on most of the roads, including MA Jinnah Road and II Chundrigar Road. With the first drop of rainfall, different parts of the port city, including North Nazimabad, North Karachi, Korangi, Gulistan-e-Johar and its suburban areas, plunged into darkness because of an electricity supply failure. SHARA-E-FAISAL SEES HIGHEST RAINFALL: According to statistics issued by the PMD, the highest rainfall was recorded at 75 millimeters on Shara-e-Faisal in the last 24 hours followed by Malir and Surjani Town at 64 and 63.8 millimeters respectively. Keamari received 55 millimeters of rainfall, Quaidabad 52, Airport area 51, Gulshan-e-Hadeed 50, Masroor Base 47.2, Jinnah Terminal 42 and Saad Town 37.6 millimeters.

Whereas, rainfall in North Karachi was recorded 33.6 millimeters, 30 millimeters on the University Road, 23.8 in Gulshan-e-Meymar, 23.5 in Nazimabad and 15 in Korangi. RAIN PLUNGES PARTS OF CITY INTO DARKNESS: Heavy rain coupled with thunder and lightning Saturday night wreaked havoc in parts of Karachi. Following the rain, major arteries in the PORT city were submerged with rainwater and commuters were stuck in their vehicles as the city administration had not taken any measure to cope with the rain, despite the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had forecast heavy rain a day earlier. With the first drop of rainfall, different parts of the port city, including North Nazimabad, Sir Syed Town, Adam Town, UP Morr, New Karachi, Yousaf Goth, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Rashid Minhas Road, Liaquatabad, DHA, Gharibabad, Gulshan-e-Maymar, Ahsan Abad, Korangi, Landhi, Garden, Sher Shah, Baldia and other areas, plunged into darkness due to an electricity supply failure.

Lack of zoo in federal capital violates IHC verdict: Experts Staff RepoRt

Karachiites should cast vote after considering recent rains: Naeem

news release said. The well-known biodiversity expert Z B Mirza Said: CDA cannot fool the cabinet to take a favourable decision on its summary in the presence of IHC verdict that had clearly asked “to end the cruelty against the animals, and free the animals in their habitats”. He said the CDA attempt to reestablish the zoo in Islamabad and grabbing the land is “mischievous by the dishonest officials”. They know they cannot do it but only after misguiding the Federal Cabinet. The biodiversity lovers will not support any uncalled-for decision by the CDA Board or the Federal Cabinet. Another senior biodiversity expert Dr. Ejaz Ahmed said: Though zoos play an important role in education and awareness regarding different species and their behavior, if animals are kept with care. But we have seen that due to poor man-

agement and care, the majority of species are depressed and kept in a very unhygienic environment which results in their poor health conditions and strange behavior. We have seen that in the past animals like elephants in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad were not treated well, they were tied with chains resulting in permanent injury and ultimately had to be sent out of Pakistan for treatment. Rina Saeed Khan, Islamabad Wildlife Management Board chairperson, said: The reopening of Islamabad zoo should not be brought onto agenda of last cabinet meeting without thoroughly consulting law and climate change ministries. The now-closed Islamabad zoo was handed over to Islamabad Wildlife Management Board in July 2019 by the Federal Cabinet following the Islamabad High Court orders given all the deaths of animals inside the old zoo.

She said, “In 2020 when the Islamabad Zoo was shut down by the landmark judgment of the IHC under the writ petition number 1155/2019 which was not challenged, the IWMB converted the site into the only wildlife rescue center of its kind in Pakistan, helping all species of wild animals in distress. Since its formal inception in 2021, the centre has successfully rescued and rehabilitated approximately 381 animals. IWMB rescues orphaned and injured wildlife in order to implement the IHC order in the judgment of WP 1155/2019 which specifically states that “No animal is treated in a manner that subjects it to unnecessary pain and suffering”. She said the IWMB Board has also approved detailed plans, in consultation with international experts of Join Hands, an INGO, to open a Visitor Information Centre for the public as part of the Mar-

galla Wildlife Centre. On January 29th 2024, without consulting or informing IWMB, CDA Board decided to “reclaim” the Islamabad zoo and re-open it as a zoo “of international standards” during their meeting. The CDA Board was misinformed that “IWMB had failed to make use of the facility”. The CDA Board has now approved the proposal and asked officials concerned to approach the federal government with their request to take back administrative control of the now closed zoo. This is clearly against the IHC orders. An environmentalist and Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director Munir Ahmed said: IHC verdict cannot be violated in any case by anyone, the concerned citizens will protest against it if done by the CDA or the Federal Cabinet. In the past, we have seen caged animals living in miserable conditions.

04 COMMENT

Refocus on war of liberation

Ducking the problem

The political parties have formed an unfortunate consensus on inflation

Today is Kashmir Solidarity Day

S the country hurtles towards the February 8 election, the consensus of the major parties seems to have been formed that the major problem of the country is inflation. Now that might be a no-brainer, but none of the three major parties seems to have any solution. It is not as if any party has propounded a bad solution; they are not presenting any solution. It almost seems as if there is a consensus that if the problem is ignored, it will go away. Unfortunately, that does not seem to be happening. There is a little bit of wriggle room justifying this position, for the State Bank of Pakistan’s latest Monetary Policy Statement has suggested that inflation might start declining in March, thus indicating that the SBP target of 5% to 7% inflation, by September 2025, might be met. Already, there has been a nominal slowing of inflation, which clocked in at 28.34 percent in January year-on-year, compared to the 29.66 percent recorded in December. However, 28.34 percent remains punitively high, and will remain posing the danger of hyperinflation. To an extent, the IMF’s insistence on maintaining a record policy rate of 22 percent can be criticized for not having worked. However, before the SBP even thinks about lowering the policy rate, the IMF has warned all central banks against premature rate cuts based on market expectations. This indicates that the IMF thinks Pakistan’s inflation is imported. Pakistan’s current inflation may well spike, as electricity tariffs and gas tariffs are both expected to go up soon, as IMF conditionalities are met. Already, the effect of the recent hike in fuel prices has yet to kick in, which will mean that the expected slowdown in inflation may not happen. Inflation does not mean suffering just for the consumer needing more money just to eat, but also means the postponement of investment decisions as there is no certainty about pricing of inputs (including capital), or any of the myriad items that make up the cost of a product. It also does negative things to consumer expectations, like propensity to save. Perhaps worst for the contenders on February 9, inflation also makes voters disaffected with their representatives. Unfortunately for democracy, they do not seem to have more of a strategy than doing nothing. Whoever wins on February 8 will find that whatever support it has will be eroded blindingly fast by inflation.

Sajjad Shaukat

VERY year, Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed on February 5 by the people throughout Pakistan and Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK). Pakistan observes this very day to express the country’s unwavering political, moral and diplomatic support to the just struggle of the Kashmiri brethren, as enshrined in the UN Charter and relevant UN resolutions. The day is marked by public processions, seminars, protests and special prayers in mosques by people across Pakistan and Azad Kashmir to condemn Indian military oppressions which are being carried out in the disputed territory of Indian Occupied Kashmir and to show solidarity with the Kashmiri freedom fighters who continue their war of liberation of Indian Occupied Kashmir. In order to maintain its illegal control, India has continued its repressive regime in Indian Occupied Kashmir through various machinations. The Indian Constitution was torn into pieces when on 5 August 2019, Indian Parliament revoked articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution, which gave a special status to the Indian Occupied Kashmir. The act split Indian Occupied Kashmir into two territories to be ruled directly from the Centre. Thus, fanatic Narendra PM Modi’s government led by extremist party BJP unilaterally annexed Indian Occupied Kashmir to turn the Muslim majority into a minority. On the same day, strict military lockdown was imposed in Indian Occupied Kashmir which continues unabated. The deployment of more than 900,000 troops there, who have martyred tens of thousands of the Kashmiris, including women and children through brutal tactics-fake encounters, while closure of mosques, shortage of foods, medicines for the patients have further increased the plight of the Kashmiris. Under a well-planned hidden agenda, the Modi-led regime has intensified, bringing ethnodemographic changes in IIOJK. In this context, various Indian moves such as introduction of new laws, amendment of the laws to facilitate nonKashmiris and outsiders in order to usurp the rights of the Muslim Kashmiris— issuance of domicile certificates to over 800,000 non-Kashmiris, registration of almost 2.5 million new non-local voters— failure of fake drama to host G-20 summit

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late)

The struggle goes on Founding Editor

M. A. Niazi

Babar Nizami

Editor Pakistan Today

Editor Profit

Today is Kashmir Solidarity Day

amjed jaaved

ASHMIR Solidarity Day has been observed since 1990 as a day of protest to condemn the Indian occupation of Jammu and Kashmir. The day is meant to express Pakistan’s full support and sympathy with the people of Indian-occupied Kashmir in their ongoing freedom struggle, and to pay homage to the Kashmiri martyrs who sacrificed their lives fighting for Kashmir’s freedom. This year, the day is being observed in the backdrop of several cataclysmic anti-Muslim events. India has removed even the veneer of nominal statehood of the disputed Jammu and Kashmir State. It has begun to shout claims on even Gilgit-Baltistan. To irk Pakistan, India instigated its stooge, the so-called Leh Apex Body, to demand “the territorial control of Ladakh up to Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir: (What is Ladakh’s demand on Gilgit-Baltistan? | Explained, The Hindu, January 28). While speaking at the parade ground of 11 Gorkha Rifles in Lucknow, India’s COAS Gen Manoj Pandey hurled threats to China and Pakistan. The city also houses the headquarters of the Central Command, which oversees India’s defences along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China’ India is hobnobbing with France and the USA to scuttle the CPEC and to encircle China. The USA and France have agreed to share with India the latest technology in the realms of military surveillance satellites, artificial information, and joint defence production. India and France agreed to intensify their cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean, building on the “joint surveillance missions” carried out from the French island of Réunion in 2020 and 2022. France accepted India “as a base” for the manufacture and export of defence equipment for friendly countries in the region. The joint statement issued at the end of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit after the talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that France is the first major Western military power with which India has conducted joint patrols under which Indian Navy P-8I maritime patrol aircraft were deployed to Réunion. “They [Modi and Macron]also welcomed the exten-

sion of those interactions in India’s maritime neighbourhood. These interactions may contribute positively to the securitisation of strategic sea lanes of communication.” To stall the CPEC as a shortcut to the Gulf States, the UAE has already agreed to build a submarine tunnel from India to the UAE, and India’s gung-ho posture stimulated China to show its maritime and air power in the sea neighbouring Taiwan. How has India stifled dissent? Through a host of draconian measures, India gagged digital and voice protests in disputed Kashmir. It barred Indian opposition leaders and journalists from visiting Kashmir during the European Parliamentary delegation’s visit to Kashmir. The visit was arranged and funded by India. Indian forces fired pellets (called `bird shots’) with pump-action shot-guns against unarmed protesters or stone-throwers, even women, and children five to eight years old. As a result, countless Kashmiris were blinded for life. The New York Times reported “the patients have mutilated retinas, severed optic nerves, irises seeping out like puddles of ink’. Doctors call them ‘dead eyes’. (“An Epidemic of ‘Dead Eyes’ in Kashmir as India Uses Pellet Guns on Protesters”, New York Times, 28 August 2016) A similar report in the Washington Post (12 December 2017) is no less poignant. Indian forces continue to kill innocent Kashmiris in fake encounters and bury them in nameless graves en masse. Kashmiris’ struggle for freedom is indomitable. Let India realise it can’t stifle Kashmiris’ dissent. To stifle the Kashmiris fighting spirit, the Dogra (1846-1947) punished even Kashmiri children who played with slingshots (ghulail in Urdu) and stones (Muhammad Yousaf Saraf, Kashmiris Fight for Freedom). Struggle for freedom goes on despite Indian forces’ reign of terror (abductions, custodial deaths, rapes, arson, and pellet shelling). “While Mr. Modi may think he can control this volatile conflict on his own, he almost certainly cannot” (The U.N. Can’t Ignore Kashmir Anymore, New York Times, 2 October 2019).

on 22-24 May 2023 there, violations of the Line of Control (LoC) by shelling inside Azad Kashmir in violation of the ceasefire agreement of 2003, might be cited as instances. To conceal India’s state terrorism, Kashmir has been cut off from the rest of the world. Notably, during the Partition, the people of the state of Jammu and Kashmir which had a Muslim majority decided to join Pakistan. But, Dogra Raja, Sir Hari Singh, a Hindu ruling in collusion with the Indian PM Jawaharlal Nehru and Governor General Lord Mountbatten, joined India.The Radcliffe Boundary Award gave Gurdaspur, a majority Muslim area, to India to provide a land route to the Indian armed forces to Kashmir. Indian forces invaded Srinagar on 27 October 1947 and forcibly occupied the state in utter violation of the partition plan. When Pakistan responded militarily, on December 31, India made an appeal to the UN Security Council to intervene and a ceasefire ultimately came into effect on 1 January 1949, following UN resolutions calling for a plebiscite. The Security Council resolution of 21 April 1948 promised a plebiscite under UN auspices to enable the people to determine whether they wish to join Pakistan or India. On 5 February 1964, India backed out of its commitment to a plebiscite. Instead, its Parliament declared Kashmir-an integral part of the Indian union. Since 1989, various forms of state terrorism have been part of a deliberate campaign by the Indian army and paramilitary forces against Muslim Kashmiris. It has been manifested in brutal tactics like crackdowns, curfews, illegal detentions, massacre, targeted killings, sieges, burning the houses, torture, disappearances, rape, breaking the legs, molestation of Muslim women and killings in fake encounters. However, since 1989, Kashmiris have already been enduring various forms of state terrorism; no Indian soldier has ever been taken to task. Hence, since the military clampdown started, Indian forces have intensified the employment of cruel tactics. Almost 100,000 Kashmiris have died in the past 33 years.

The current situation is the worst in recent history, as through endless illegal and unilateral steps, ModiÊs government has created an environment of fear and chaos for the Kashmiris. Kashmir has become the worldÊs largest prison, and the most militarized zone on earth.

Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I

Mehbooba Mufti, former chief minister of the disputed state, once called Kashmir a Guantanamo Bay. Kashmiri people remain prisoners in their own houses, their mosques deserted, while internet access is mostly blocked. Schools, markets and roads are almost deserted as people are not allowed to move freely. The apathy of the Muslim countries and international news agencies is not understood. Irked by international-media censures on use of pellet guns, Gen Bipin Rawat, India’s ex-army chief, tendered a funny explanation. He says, ` Most of the eye injuries are caused because those pelting stones bend to the ground to pick up stones and because pellet guns are fired at the legs they get hit in the eyes’ (Indian Express, 17 January 2020). Kashmir is a simmering cauldron. India’s entente policy may lead to a nuclear Armageddon. History tells that the ebbs and flows of Kashmiris’ resistance never ceased. Palliatives failed to stifle the struggle. A lasting solution is to allow Kashmiris to determine their own fate. An internationally disputed territory can’t be unilaterally annexed. In marked contrast to India’s colonizing policy, Pakistan gives an iron-clad constitutional assurance to Kashmiris to re-craft their relation with Pakistan under Article 257 of its Constitution. It states: `when the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State shall be determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that State’. Fake cases continue to be registered against Kashmiri leaders. Farooq Abdullah’s ancestral home was confiscated. Money laundering cases were registered against several Kashmiri leaders but they are all undeterred by Indian coercive tactics. Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Gilani died in captivity. The writer is a freelance journalist, has served in the Pakistan government for 39 years and holds degrees in economics, business administration, and law. He can be reached at amjedjaaved@gmail.com

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

Indian forces have been also availing such draconian laws as Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Public Safety Act (PSA) etc. in martyring the Kashmiri people, and for arbitrarily arresting any individual indefinitely. The regime has also sent gangs of RSS-BJP volunteers to be permanently stationed in Indian Occupied Kashmir. Despite the use of chemical weapons, pellet guns and phosphorus bombs, Kashmiris have accelerated the war of liberation for their legitimate right of self-determination as recognized by the related UN resolutions. Western media, human rights groups, leaders of various countries and the UN have repeatedly condemned Indian illegal measures and human rights abuses which keep going on there. A year after India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, UN human rights experts on 4 August 2020 called on India and the international community to take urgent action to address the “alarming” human rights situation in Kashmir,“to investigate all cases of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture and arbitrary detentions.” Amnesty International also said on 29 September 2020 that it is “stopping its work in India because the government has frozen its bank accounts” on September 10 for “highlighting rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir”. In the recent past, the UN Security Council in its meetings has thrice reiterated that the Kashmir issue requires to be settled in accordance with the principles of the UN charter and the related Security Council resolutions, as the world has refused to believe in the Indian story that its actions in Held Kashmir are its internal matter. In the recent past, the UN General Assembly has adopted a Pakistan-sponsored resolution on “Universal Realization of the Right of the People to Self-determination” with the consensus of 72 countries. On this day, special transmissions were broadcast on Pakistan’s media to highlight the Kashmir cause. Nevertheless, the current situation is the worst in recent history, as through endless illegal and unilateral steps, Modi’s government has created an environment of fear and chaos for the Kashmiris. Kashmir has become the world’s largest prison, and the most militarized zone on earth. In this respect, Pakistanis and Kashmiris abroad also highlighted Indian atrocities and continued struggle for the Kashmiris’ legitimate right of self-determination at various international forums, emphasizing the Kashmir issue should be resolved in accordance with the related UN resolutions. Nonetheless, February 5 is being observed as the Kashmir Solidarity Day to pay homage to Kashmiri martyrs and to show solidarity with the freedom fighters who continue the war of liberation, demanding their legitimate right of self-determination, as recognized by the UN resolutions.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations and can be reached at: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Editor’s mail

In marked contrast to IndiaÊs colonizing policy, Pakistan gives an iron-clad constitutional assurance to Kashmiris to re-craft their relation with Pakistan under Article 257 of its Constitution. It states: `when the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State shall be determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that StateÊ.

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

Monday, 5 February, 2024

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

Costly electricity

THE cost of electricity has been increased once again. Surprisingly, the price of crude oil has decreased in the international market, and the slide of the rupee has also been halted. Instead of providing relief to the people, the government has added to their burden. Every year, a large section of the population falls below the poverty line due to inflation. This should have been a matter of concern, but that has not been the case. MUMRAIZ KHAN KARACHI

Winter vacations

THE winter vacations in Sindh usually start from December, while the mercury drops a lot more in the latter half of January. Teachers and children are compelled to go to schools and colleges early in the morning when the weather is really harsh. No one thinks about changing the schedule due to which students and teachers suffer. The timing of the winter vacations needs to be revisited as it currently stands outdated and flawed. ARIBA NAZ HYDERABAD

Deadly incline

THE Sakhi Pir Incline in Liaquat Colony, Hyderabad, has seen multiple accidents, leading to loss of lives. Transport companies cause traffic congestion and endanger lives due to frequent brake failures. Their trucks arrive there at around 10pm and stay on the incline till the morning, supported only by a single brick. The authorities should halt the operations of these companies and redirect them to a designated area elsewhere. SHAHRUKH SAEED QURESHI HYDERABAD

Painful history

AUTHOR Ray Merritt famously said that old men can make war, “but it is the children who will make history”. It is true in the context of Israel’s woefully brutal war on Palestine. Thousands of children have died in the Zionist action. This painful history will haunt the future generations of Israel and the US. KAMRAN AKHTAR SIDDIQUI SUKKUR

Gas theft

INCIDENTS of theft of natural gas have increased in the vicinity of Hub city. Unfortunately, those who pay their bills regularly end up facing the consequences of such theft as they have to deal with gas shortage on a daily basis. The public, having paid substantial amounts, is aggrieved by inadequate gas supply. SIDDIQUE M.B. TURBAT

Gas cylinders

THE use of gas cylinders has been on the rise owing to disruptions in the supply of natural gas. There is no standardised quality control mechanism involved in the manufacturing of these cylinders. Having such substandard gas cylinders is like having live bombs in one’s house or workplace, which is extremely dangerous. The local manufacturers should be encouraged to set up their plants with a guarantee that they will produce only quality cylinders that meet international standards. S M ARIF KARACHI

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

The road ahead Monday, 5 February, 2024

Problems need fixing

shEikh imranul haquE

HERE is no dearth of thinking and opinionated talent but 75 years later the hopium continues despite glaring feedback by World Bank World Country Director and Vice President Martin Raiser on the need to build on the crisis that is providing opportunity for reforms and redefining operations, and as to whether this is our economic turnaround moment. Indicators suggest that measures taken so far by the SIFC show the trough is behind us, much to the disappointment of detractors wishing bankruptcy and chaos with far reaching game changer steps taken now at FBR with plans again for taxing retailers. Does it actually end to shifting of CBR/FBR under Revenue Division (3 times) or being made a Division of the Ministry of Finance since 1944. After the FBR Act 2007, the tax regulator was authorized to manage all the tax laws and was responsible for policy making, but in 2018 tax policy powers were given to Finance to split administration from tax policy decisions. Tax policy is now with the Revenue Division and the split FBR empowered and to operate “independently”. Will that last only till the IMF dictates? Pakistan’s salaried class, facing a significant tax burden, contributed Rs 158 billion in the first half of this fiscal year, marking a 38 percent increase from the previous year. The salaried class now ranks fourth in withholding tax contributors after contractors, bank depositors, and importers. Why are perks of poor cash, perk-rich federal government employees (1.92 million) not being taxed? Civil servants are not at a salary disadvantage when compared to their counterparts in the private sector. The total cost of a grade 21 officer is estimated

to be 12 percent higher than an equivalent locally hired UN officer. Non-monetary benefits are much higher in the public sector than in the private sector, with 80 percent of the private sector workers having no nonmonetary benefits. In contrast, almost 80 percent of public sector employees have more than three non-salary benefits. World Bureaucracy Indicators of the World Bank estimates that the public sector wages in Pakistan are 53 percent higher when compared to the private-sector wages. The Pay and Pension Commission has been formed since 1948 and its recent report submitted in 2022 has been ignored. Why appoint it then? It is estimated that more than 1.6 million marriages happen in the country during the year. Adjusting for household incomes, it is estimated that more than Rs 110 billion is spent on weddings on an annual basis but no event organizer, hall owner or caterer or jewellery and boutique pay equivalent tax of industry or salaried individuals According to an article appearing on 6 February 2020 by a former federal secretary: “This [agricultural] sector is almost one fifth of the economy (18.9 percennt) and generates more than $60 billion or Rs 9 trillion worth of gross income annually…”. The Tax Expenditure Report 2020 of the FBR claimed that in tax year 2018, exempt dividend paid by the corporate sector from agricultural income was Rs. 43 billion. On the basis of Agricultural Census 2010 by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the Report claims: “If statutory slab-wise tax rates are applied on average income per farm for the six categories of farm sizes, the estimated revenue forgone due to this exemption comes to Rs. 69.5 billion annually”. “Today, a mere 5 percent of large landholders in Pakistan are said to possess a mas-

Solutions advocated repeatedly are to lower taxes, incentives, mobilization of funds by provinces, amnesty, reduction in expenses, self reliance and real test of new economic team in March 2024 will be handling of burgeoning fiscal deficit, historic high inflation, discount rate of 22 percent, stagflation, rising unemployment, huge circular debt in electricity and gas sectors, continuous funding from taxpayersÊ money of inefficient and loss-bearing state-owned enterprises (SOEs)

Ban TikTok in school? Get rid of phones instead

BLOOMBERG Editors

N response to the inordinate amount of time young Americans spend online, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing to curb students’ access to social media sites while at school. The goal of keeping students off TikTok during the school day is undoubtedly worthwhile, but policymakers would be better off taking a simpler and more effective approach: banning mobile phones from schools altogether. It’s by now indisputable that allowing kids to have phones in the classroom harms academic performance — even among those who don’t actually use them. Excessive smartphone and social media use have also been linked to rising rates of teenage depression, emotional distress and self-harm. Threequarters of US public schools claim to prohibit “nonacademic” use of mobile phones during class, but enforcement remains weak. A recent survey found that 97% of US adolescents used their phones at school, with most of it spent on social media, YouTube and gaming platforms. The problem has finally spurred some in Congress to act. A bill introduced by Texas Senator Ted Cruz would require districts receiving funds through the federal E-Rate program, which subsidizes the cost of broadband connections, to block access to social media platforms over their Wi-Fi networks, just as they already must do for pornography. They’d also have to disclose how much classroom time is spent on screens. Districts that fail to comply would face the loss of federal subsidies — a powerful incentive for schools in high-poverty areas, which rely on E-Rate to cover up to 90% of their internet costs. Cruz and his cosponsors, Republicans Ted Budd and Shel-

ley Moore Capito and Democrat John Fetterman, deserve credit for trying to prevent taxpayer money from further enabling teens’ social media use — especially in the wake of the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to allow districts to use E-Rate funds to subsidize Wi-Fi on school buses, which will give kids even more unsupervised time online. But even if it’s eventually enacted, the bill won’t have much impact on student learning. Only one-third of public schools receive E-Rate funds and would be subject to the mandate. Kids would also still be able to send text messages, watch videos and shop online on their devices. And regardless of how students use their phones, merely being in proximity to them impairs focus and retention, while forcing teachers to waste valuable time policing their use. Rather than try to control what students do on their phones, policymakers should be focused on removing them entirely. Other countries show it can be done: France, Italy, the UK and China, among others, have imposed nationwide restrictions on mobile phones in schools. US Education Secretary Miguel Cardona should act on the recommendation made by dozens of education researchers and issue an official advisory to school districts calling for an outright ban of phones — and press state-level education chiefs to do the same. State and federal lawmakers should provide financial incentives for districts that implement phone-free policies and increase funding for pouches and lockers to store devices for the duration of the school day. Another bill in the Senate, sponsored by Republican Tom Cotton and Democrat Tim Kaine, would authorize $5 million a year to pay for phone-storage equipment — a good start, though likely not enough to cover all schools’ needs. After years of inaction, it’s encouraging to see some national leaders begin to address the damage inflicted by mobile technology on student learning. But bolder action is still needed to start solving the problem for good.

Is India ‘scared of’ China?

tion, but on the other hand, PTI signalling potential withdrawal from IMF loan programme and the letter to The Economist intends to build uncertainty. It has been restated, “ reform of the criminal justice system is the new year’s gift this country deserves. The pain we suffered in 2023 must alter us, lest it hurt us in the coming years as well” The Annual Quality of Democracy Report 2023 states in its executive summary that “as an organisation consisting of Pakistanis for the betterment of Pakistan’s democracy, PILDAT has advised the decision-makers consistently to do the right thing by the Constitution for over two decades. Our counsel, and our efforts of capacity building and engagement with political parties have been the same”. Yet “as we head into 2024, Pakistan is

sive 64 percent of the total farmland, while 65 percent of small farmers hold only 15 percent of the land “ Economy of Debt: Alternatives to Austerity and Neoliberalism in Pakistan”. Dr. Pasha, as the lead author of UNDP’s latest National Human Development Report (NHDR) on inequality, talked about the gross disparities present in the country. As an example, the agricultural and population census shows that 1 percent of farmers in Pakistan own 22 percent of all farm area”—On Equity and Happiness: UNDP at the Lahore Literary Festival If the agricultural income tax was imposed in accordance with the Constitution provinces could significantly reduce the federation’s overall fiscal deficit besides improving the pathetic tax-to-GDP ratio. On one hand we want to be FDI destina-

GLOBAL TIMES Editorial

CCORDING to some US media outlet, during her visit to Nepal a few days ago, Sun Haiyan, deputy head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, publicly said for the first time that some countries are trying to sabotage ChinaNepal relations. She did not single out any particular country, but the media report cited an Indian scholar saying that the statement was directed at India and the US to some extent. Strictly speaking, this isn’t news. Regardless of whether Sun said this, it is a reality that has occurred in Nepal and other South Asian countries in recent years. The US, which considers itself as the world’s hegemon, competes with China for influence globally. India, which sees itself as the hegemon of South Asia, views South Asia as a forbidden area and fortifies against China in every aspect. The approaches and means employed by Washington and New Delhi to maintain their selfproclaimed hegemony are nothing more than to sow discord between China and smaller countries, coercing and inducing them, and creating gaps and obstacles in their mutually beneficial relations with China. We won’t talk about the US here. But the model of coexistence between China and India does not have to be like this at all. We have always said that the dragon and the elephant should and can coexist. The worst outcome is to fall into the “dragon-elephant dispute” that has long been preset by US and Western public opinion. However, India does not share the same viewpoint, and the nature and mentality reflected in its foreign policy are highly competitive and even confrontational. This can be clearly seen in India’s recent handling of relations with neighboring countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Even India’s deployment of naval power in the Red Sea has been interpreted by US and Western public opinion as a result of “the growing competition with China. On many issues, New Delhi demands and pressures its South Asian neighbors to “choose sides” between China and India. This shows, first of all, disrespect for the sovereignty of these countries, and secondly, a distortion of China-India re-

lations. The American media reported an interesting incident in recent days. Because a pigeon’s legs were found tied with rings carrying words that looked like Chinese characters, Indian police suspected it of spying for China. The pigeon was detained for over eight months until it was discovered that it was actually a racing bird from China’s Taiwan region. This incident reflects India’s overly suspicious and paranoid attitude toward China. In the past decade, India has not only detained pigeons suspected of being spies on multiple occasions, but also eagles, monkeys, and other animals, most of which were suspected to be spies from Pakistan, India’s “archenemy.” This “Chinese spy pigeon” incident is indeed very rare. This dramatic incident is not a coincidence and, to some extent, reflects the shift in New Delhi’s strategic focus and the deep vigilance some Indians have toward China, accompanied by a certain degree of hostility. Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said on January 30 during an interaction with students at the Indian Institute of Management Mumbai that India shouldn’t “be scared of” China. He noted that India has the capability and confidence to compete with China and is in a very advantageous position in many aspects. Obviously, this is said for the domestic audience in India, but it immediately raises questions from Chinese people. Why used the term “be scared of”? What is India “scared” of China? Are Jaishankar’s remarks meant to encourage India? Does this encouragement convey positive energy in China-Indian relations? We also want to say that India shouldn’t be “scared of” China, but the meaning behind this statement is fundamentally different from Jaishankar’s. There is no need for India to fear China at all. Instead, China and India can and should be partners, not rivals or enemies. Indian Ambassador to China Pradeep Kumar Rawat said in a meeting with Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, on January 24 that differences are not the mainstream of India-China relations. He hoped that both sides can find a way to cooperate and coexist, move forward hand in hand, bring benefits to the two peoples, and contribute to regional and world peace and development.

struggling with a burgeoning fiscal deficit, stagflation, rising unemployment and circular debt in the energy sector. Setting the economy on the path towards prosperity for the common citizen will require systemic reform. Pakistan’s real fiscal problem is reckless borrowing and ruthless spending, pushing the country deeper and deeper into the deadly debt trap. Further, budgets for the last many years show grossly understated expenditures and exaggerated income and inflows, deliberately or otherwise, confirming incompetence and fraudulent behaviour. Solutions advocated repeatedly are to lower taxes, incentives, mobilization of funds by provinces, amnesty, reduction in expenses, self reliance and real test of new economic team in March 2024 will be handling of burgeoning fiscal deficit, historic high inflation, discount rate of 22 percent, stagflation, rising unemployment, huge circular debt in electricity and gas sectors, continuous funding from taxpayers’ money of inefficient and loss-bearing state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

The writer has held leadership positions in various companies and organizations. He has served as Managing Director of Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and Chairman of the Petroleum Institute of Pakistan and OCAC. He developed the EPQL 210 MW plant using flared gas and Pakistan’s first LNG import infrastructure in a record 300 days. He can be contacted at ihaque58@gmail.com

Elon Musk’s Neuralink raises question about how moral future humans might be Neuralink might make humans smarter but there’s no guarantees they will be more moral

FOX NEWS

JosEph VukoV

LON Musk just announced that Neuralink — a “brain-computer interface” — had been implanted into a human brain for the first time. Patient Zero is recovering well. The technology has already undergone animal trials and has been branded as a Fitbit for the brain. Paired with your iPhone, a Neuralink could help control prosthetics, monitor brain activity in real time and boost overall cognitive capacity. It will eventually pair seamlessly with a Tesla, I’m sure. Neuralink is only the latest in a line of novel technologies that can advance our cognitive capacities. Brain stimulation technologies have been shown to increase attention and boost creativity. The drug propranolol can modify memories. Other drugs such as Adderall and Modafinal — while used widely to treat ADHD — can be used to enhance cognition. And a favorite of mine: optogenetics, a technique that makes neurons fire when they are exposed to light. Yes, there’s a big issue getting a flashlight into your cranium. But if we can do that, the technique presents all kinds of possibilities for cognitive enhancement. Flip a switch and watch your IQ tick up. Cognitive enhancement does not only take our thinking up a notch — it also may help us understand moral concerns that are opaque to us now. Think of it this way: your dog has very little appreciation of morality. Sure, maybe he can understand that snacking on Thanksgiving dinner before the meal makes him a “very, very bad dog.” And that letting the neighbor kids pet him even though (you’ll admit) they are kind of annoying makes him a “good dog.” But try chatting with Fido about rights or equality or the ethics of technology, and you’ll get a blank stare. Why? There are probably a few reasons. The most obvious: a human adult has a more sophisticated intellect, and so is better able to appreciate and understand morality than a dog ever could. My point? Our cognitively enhanced future cousins may stand in relation to us as we stand in relation to our dogs. Better able to appreciate moral nuances that escape us because of our cognitive inferiority. Dumbfounded in the face of moral considerations that, at our current cognitive level, simply do not click. But here’s the thing: none of this would actually make us more moral. The boosted IQ, the sharper memory, the greater appreciation of moral concerns. None of it. The reason is simple.

Merely understanding morality does not make you morally better. Two thousand years ago, Aristotle had a word for this: akrasia, knowing the right thing to do but lacking the will to do it. Just because our future, enhanced cousins may understand and appreciate morality better does not mean they’ll act any better. They very well may know the right thing to do — and know it better than we do — but then choose to do something else entirely. That’s Aristotle’s lesson. More recently, the University of California, Riverside professor Eric Schwitzgebel has made the same point in a different way: through a series of studies about the moral behavior of ethicists. Presumably, ethicists know more about morality than your average Joe. They study ethics all day, after all. And yet, in study after tongue-in-cheek study, Schwitzgebel has shown professional ethicists to be not any better — or a bit worse — than the rest of us. Professional ethicists fail to return library books more often than others, vote at a comparable rate to peers, talk at the same rate during other professors’ talks, and leave trash behind in meeting rooms at the same rate as anyone else. Does this make ethicists moral monsters? Obviously not. But it does suggest that simply knowing more about morality won’t make you a better person. That goes for professional ethicists. It goes for our enhanced future cousins. And it goes for us, too — the unenhanced masses. Really, though, we didn’t need either Aristotle or Schwitzgebel to show us this. Being smarter doesn’t make you more moral. We’ve all known the wicked smart jerk, the GPA-crushing roommate who is impossible to live with, the genius with the soured personality. Moreover, any moral outlook that recognizes the equal dignity of all humans suggests there is something obscene about assuming that moral worth tags along with IQ. This would imply, after all, that those with a lower IQ are morally inferior. A clear violation of human dignity. So how could we become better morally? One possibility: when it comes to enhancement technologies, skip smarts and go right for morality. Forget about enhancing IQ and instead target empathy. Or altruism. Or simply those traits associated with a sunny disposition. There’s some chance this could work. Presumably, ethicists know more about morality than your average Joe. They study ethics all day, after all. And yet, in study after tongue-in-cheek study, Schwitzgebel has shown professional ethicists to be not any better — or a bit worse — than the rest of us. If it did, our enhanced future cousins could be tweaked so they would not only know more than us about morality, but have a better moral compass. There’s a problem: a moral compass is only good if you want to follow where it points. And it isn’t clear how any form of enhancement could convince people to go where their enhanced compass is pointing. Joseph Vukov is an associate professor in the Philosophy Department at Loyola University Chicago.

06 NEWS

toll rises to 51 in UN SECURITY COUNCIL TO HOLD EMERGENCY Death Chile forest fires MEETING ON US AIRSTRIKES IN IRAQ, SYRIA

Monday, 5 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

SANTIAGO, CHILE AGENCIES

NEW YORK

AGENCIES

HE UN Security Council is set to hold an “urgent” meeting Monday afternoon on the US strikes in Iraq and Syria, which it reportedly launched in retaliation for the death of three American soldiers, diplomats said. They said Russia requested the meeting to discuss the attacks launched by Washington against Iran-backed groups it has accused of attacking US troops in the region. Russia’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, Dmitry Polyansky, said on social media that his country has “called for an urgent UN Security Council meeting to discuss threats to international peace and security from the US strikes against Iraq and Syria.” Earlier on Saturday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, said the airstrikes had been deliberately designed to inflame tensions in the region. The attacks once again demonstrated

the aggressive nature of Washington’s foreign policy, she said, noting that the US “is purposefully trying to drive the largest countries in the region into conflict.” “Washington, believing in its impunity, continues to sow destruction and chaos in the Middle East. The largest US air raid in the region

since 2003, led by Joe Biden’s ‘act of retaliation’ for the unidentified drone attack on the American base in Jordan has no justification.” “We strongly condemn the new blatant act of American-British aggression against sovereign states. We are seeking urgent consideration of the current situation through the UN

Security Council,” she said. The US started air strikes on Friday against Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards CorpsQuds Force and Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria after a suicide drone attack killed three American troops in Jordan late last month. In all, more than 85 targets were hit with more than 125 precision munitions, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement. The strikes have also evoked criticism from the targeted countries. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s office said sixteen people had been killed, among them civilians, and 25 others injured in the aerial assaults. He denounced the attacks as a “new aggression against Iraq’s sovereignty,” denying that they had been coordinated with the Baghdad government beforehand. Syria said those regions that were targeted by the US strikes “are the same regions where the Syrian army fights remnants of the Daesh terrorist group, and this confirms that the US is in cahoots and allied with this group.”

Houthis vow response after US, UK strike dozens of Yemen targets SANAA

AGENCIES

Masarrat Aalam expresses gratitude to Pakistan for supporting Kashmir cause SRINAGAR

Yemen’s Houthis said Sunday US and British air strikes “will not deter us” and vowed a response after dozens of targets were hit in retaliation for the Iran-backed rebels’ repeated Red Sea attacks. The joint air raids in Yemen late Saturday followed a separate wave of unilateral American strikes against Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria in response to a drone attack that killed three US soldiers in Jordan. It is the third time that British and American forces have jointly targeted the Houthis, whose attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in war-battered Gaza have disrupted global trade. The United States has also carried out a series of air raids against the Yemeni rebels on its own, but

their attacks on the vital Red Sea trade route have persisted. Saturday’s strikes hit “36 Houthi targets across 13 locations in Yemen in response to the Houthis’ continued attacks against international and commercial shipping as well as naval vessels transiting the Red Sea,” the United States, Britain and other countries that provided support for the operation said in a statement. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the strikes “are intended to further disrupt and degrade the capabilities of the Iranian-backed Houthi militia to conduct their reckless and destabilising attacks.” Neither Austin nor the joint statement identified the specific places that were hit, but Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the capital Sanaa and other rebel-held areas were targeted.

Saree reported a total of 48 air strikes, and said on social media platform X that “these attacks will not deter us from our… stance in support of the steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip,” where the Israel-Hamas war has raged since early October. The latest strikes “will not pass without response and punishment,” Saree said. Britain’s defense ministry said Royal Air Force Typhoon warplanes struck targets including two ground control stations used to operate attack and reconnaissance drones. Austin said that “coalition forces targeted 13 locations associated with the Houthis’ deeply buried weapons storage facilities, missile systems and launchers, air defense systems, and radars.” There were no immediate reports of casualties.

AGENCIES

Illegally jailed Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) Masarrat Aalam Butt has expressed gratitude to the people and government of Pakistan for their continued moral, political, and diplomatic support to the Kashmiris’ legitimate and indigenous struggle for securing freedom from Indian illegal and forcible occupation. According to Kashmir Media Service, Masarrat Aalam Butt in a message from New Delhi’s notorious Tihar jail said the oppressed people of Kashmir are living a hellish life under the yoke of injustice and Indian imperialism. He added that the worst kind of political injustice and atrocities perpetrated by India through its over one million Indian forces in IIOJK was a matter of grave concern for those people who yearn to see it from the prism of humanity. He said observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day on 5th February every year by Pakistan was a resolve to support the Kashmiris’ demand of right to selfdetermination at national and international level. Pakistan, as an important party to the Kashmir dispute, is playing its sincere and rightful role to peacefully resolve the lingering dispute, he maintained. The APHC Chairman said Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear power, supports the right to self-determination as a democratic and peaceful formula to settle the dispute as guaranteed by the United Nations Security Council resolutions on Kashmir. The people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir are highly thankful to Pakistan for its sincere support and succor to Kashmir cause, Masarrat Aalam Butt maintained. IIOJK HC quashes detention of three youth booked under draconian PSA The High Court of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir has quashed the illegal detention of three youth booked under black law Public Safety Act (PSA). According to Kashmir Media Service, the court after hearing three separate petitions challenging orders of detention under PSA quashed these detention orders with the directives to the authorities to release the trio. The court quashed the PSA of Muyeeb Shafi Ganie, Mohammad Ayaz alias Shantoo and Irfan Amin Butt. They were detained by the detaining authority (concerned District Magistrates) on April 7, 2022, May 5, 2023 and May 2, 2023 respectively. The Indian police had booked them on the charges of his involvement in anti-India and pro-freedom activities.

Russia, South Korea hold tense security talks in Seoul SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA AGENCIES

Russia and South Korea said on Sunday that they discussed regional security and other “pending issues” amid a chasm of differences between the two countries and escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. In a visit to Seoul, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko held talks with his South Korean counterpart Chung Byungwon on Friday and “addressed the Ukrainian war and bilateral ties,” Yonhap News reported, citing a statement by South Korea’s Foreign Ministry. Chung expressed Seoul’s “stern stance” on Russia’s “growing military cooperation with North Korea” and called for Moscow’s “responsible behavior,” according to the South Korean news agency. He also urged Moscow’s cooperation to “prevent any infringement on the legitimate rights” of South Korean firms and citizens in Russia. During his visit, Rudenko also held talks with South Korea’s top nuclear envoy, Kim Gunn, as well as Kim Hong-kyun, the country’s special envoy for peace and security affairs on the Korean Peninsula. Kim called on Moscow to “strictly comply with its obligations to UN Security Council resolutions, including the immediate cessation of its military ties with Pyongyang

The death toll from forest fires affecting central and southern Chile has risen to 51, according to media reports on Sunday. “Given the conditions of the tragedy, the number of victims will surely increase in the coming hours,” CNN cited Chilean President Gabriel Boric as saying in a televised statement. Boric added that the Defense Ministry would deploy more military units to affected areas, with all necessary resources made available. “About 92 active fires are burning in various parts of the country and have so far affected roughly 43,000 hectares,” CNN quoted Interior Minister Carolina Toha as saying. “Firefighters have controlled 40 fires and are still battling 29,” she added. Chilean authorities reported that forest fires are ongoing in the Valparaiso and Marga Marga regions. The wildfires in Valparaiso have damaged an estimated 1,100 homes, authorities said. Declaring a state of emergency, President Boric said on X: “We have directed all our crews to the central and southern regions of the country to intervene in the fires.” In February 2023, some 13 people in Chile lost their lives in forest fires.

PSL 9 tickets sale to begin on Tuesday ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Tickets for HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9 will go on sale on Tuesday (February 6). Fans would also be able to pre-book their tickets online at pcb.tcs.com.pk, said a press release. Physical tickets have been made mandatory for all HBL PSL 9 matches. E-tickets (self-printed or digital copies) would not be accepted for entry across the four venues throughout the tournament. Physical tickets will go on sale at designated TCS express centres from February 12 onwards. The tickets booked online can also be collected from TCSdesignated pick-up centres or can be home-delivered by TCS. The opening ceremony and first match of the ninth edition of the HBL PSL was scheduled to take place on February 17 at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The tickets have been set at PKR 6,000 (VIP), PKR 3,000 (Premium), PKR 2,000 (First class) and PKR 1,000 (General). The tickets for the final, to be played on March 18 at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, have been set at PKR 8,000 (VIP), PKR 4,000 (Premium), PKR 2,500 (First class) and PKR 1,000 (General). The tickets for the qualifier would be sold for PKR 5,000 (VIP), PKR 2,500 (Premium), PKR 1500 (First class) and PKR 750 (General) while tickets for the two eliminators have been priced at PKR 5,000 (VIP), PKR 3,000 (Premium), PKR 1500 (First class) and PKR 750 (General). Over the course of HBL PSL 9, Karachi will host 11 matches including the final leg of the tournament, Rawalpindi and Lahore will host nine matches each while Multan will host five matches.

US expresses deep concern about Kosovo’s actions having negative effect on ethnic Serbs BELGRADE, SERBIA AGENCIES

that threatens the security of the Korean Peninsula and Europe.” In a separate statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow intends continue developing cooperation with North Korea “in the interests of both countries and their peoples, as well as strengthening peace and stability in the region.” It said that in Seoul, Rudenko exchanged views with officials about the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeastern Asia, as well as on bilateral relations, expressing Moscow’s “serious concerns regarding the sharp escalation of tensions in the subregion.” “It was clearly stated that its main source is the irresponsible provocative policy of Washington, which, for its own geopolitical purposes, is trying to encourage regional allies to implement their aggressive plans, fraught with un-

predictable consequences, including in the military sphere,” it added. The statement also said that to help calm the situation, the US and its allies should cease military activity and return to jointly searching for a political and diplomatic solution. Rudenko’s trip comes amid a diplomatic row following recent remarks on Pyongyang by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. Last week, Yoon called North Korea an “irrational group and the only country in the world that has legalized the preemptive use of nuclear weapons.” Yoon’s remarks were criticized by Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova for being “blatantly biased.” In response, the South Korean Foreign Ministry summoned Russia’s Ambassador to Seoul Georgy Zinoviev to lodge a protest over the spokesperson’s remarks.

American Ambassador Jeff Hovenier warned Saturday that Kosovo is losing the support of the US because of the government’s recent actions that are negatively affecting ethnic Serbs. ”The United States Government is deeply concerned about recent actions by authorities of the Government of Kosovo that have a direct and negative effect on members of the ethnic Serb and other minority communities in Kosovo,” Hovenier said in a statement. He blamed the Kosovo government for “unnecessarily raising ethnic tensions” and said, they “limit the options of the United States to serve as an effective advocate for Kosovo in the international arena,” referring to the operations by Kosovo Police in the past week to the offices of Serbia-administered institutions in Kosovo. ”We are also concerned by Kosovo Police actions today to seize the Serbian Dinar and the vehicle transporting it to distribute social benefit payments from Serbia. We look to the authorities of Kosovo to ensure that the individuals for whom these social benefit payments are and state that this limits the US’s ability to serve as an advocate for Kosovo in the international arena,” he said. Serbia will request an emergency session of the UN Security Council in writing Monday in response to Kosovo’s decision to adopt the euro for cash and payment transactions, effectively eliminating the Serbian dinar, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced Friday.

‘7.8-earthquake’: Turkiye commemorates its worst disaster of modern times ISTANBUL

AGENCIES

Turkiye on Tuesday holds pre-dawn vigils for the loss of more than 50,000 people — and parts of entire cities — in the earthquake-prone country’s deadliest disaster of modern times. Grieving Turks are still coming to terms with how a 7.8-magnitude tremor could upturn the lives of millions of people in a matter of seconds while they were still asleep. An updated toll released Friday showed that 53,537 people had died across 11 southeastern provinces officially designated as the disaster zone. The confirmed loss of 5,951 more lives in neighboring Syria makes last year’s February 6 earthquake one of the 10 deadliest in the world in the past 100 years. Ancient cities such as Antakya have been effectively wiped off the map. Others have gaping holes in place of

apartment towers that toppled like houses of cards when the ground began to move at 4:17 am. Shellshocked survivors stood outside in the freezing cold in their pyjamas and listened to those trapped under concrete slabs of debris scream in agonizing pain. “It’s been a year, but it doesn’t leave our minds,” housewife Cagla Demirel told AFP in one of the container camps set up for hundreds of thousands of survivors in Antakya. “Life has lost its spark,” the 31-yearold said. “I have no family left to visit, no door to knock on, no pleasant place to be. Nothing remains.” DISASTER ZONE: Antakya’s remaining residents plan to gather on Tuesday at 4:17 am for a vigil that will see everyone cry out: “Can you hear us?“ The call became ubiquitous across the disaster zone as people searched for loved ones in the rubble. But it also appears to be a nuanced re-

minder for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government that many in the quake zone feel left behind. Analysts at the Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkiye (TEPAV) point out that the disaster struck an area already weighted down by unemployment and underinvestment. “Some districts in the region have the highest poverty rate in Turkiye,” TEPAV said in a report. Erdogan pushed back hard against complaints that government rescuers were unprepared and slow to respond. He has branded the quake “the catastrophe of the century” that no nation could have averted or quickly overcome. He crisscrossed the nation in the first weeks of the disaster and promised to deliver 650,000 new housing units within a year. He began to hand out keys in Antakya on Saturday for the first 7,000 apartments of the 46,000 ready to be delivered across the quake zone this month.

He said up to 20,000 units would be delivered monthly and 200,000 by the end of the year — short of his initial promise but still impressive for a region hit by postquake chaos. “Of course, we cannot bring back the lives we lost, but we can compensate all the other losses,” Erdogan told Antakya residents on Saturday. “We made promises to do so.” But Erdogan’s words offer little solace to people such as ice cream vendor Kadir Yeniceli. The 70-year-old native of Kahramanmaras — a hard-hit city where Erdogan’s Islamic-rooted party enjoys overwhelming support — said people feel “confused” about what happens next. “There has been no return to normal,” Yeniceli told AFP. “It remains the same, there is no progress. There is a lack of employment, there is a lack of money, there is a lack of income.” Erdogan’s housing pledges came in the

runup to a May 2023 general election that turned into the toughest of his two-decade rule. He prevailed in a runoff presidential ballot thanks to consistent support across much of the disaster zone. Many voters expressed a lack of trust in the opposition and thought Erdogan’s government was doing the best anyone could do under the circumstances. But many voters and analysts point out that Turkiye is no better prepared for another big shake than it was one year ago. The country straddles two of the world’s most active fault lines and is rattled almost daily by more minor quakes. And hundreds of contractors are currently facing prosecution for allegedly skirting the building safety standards already in place. “The country urgently needs to transition from crisis management to risk management,” said Istanbul Technical University disaster management professor Mikdat Kadioglu. “There is still much to be done.”

Monday, 5 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER PTA chairman’s message on Safer Internet Day

ISLAMABAD: On this special occasion of Safer Internet Day, PTA recognizes the critical role that the internet plays in our lives. We are steadfast in our commitment to ensure a safe online environment, particularly for our youth and children. It is our collective responsibility to create a secure and protective digital space where Pakistani users continue their online activities in a safer environment. PTA has collaborated with Meta, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), TikTok, and other organizations to pursue the cause of promoting a safer online environment in Pakistan. Our efforts for the cause have been recognized and PTA received SAMENA Council international LEAD award under the category "Enabling Child & Youth Safety online". Online safety is a global issue and only through collaboration and coordinated efforts we can create a digital world that prioritizes the safety of every individual. PR

Hundreds of students attend AEO Education Expo in Lahore

LAHORE: This February once again AEO Pakistan is organizing Pakistan’s biggest study abroad education expo being organized across 10 major cities of Pakistan i.e., Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Multan, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Bahawalpur and Hyderabad. The AEO expo is providing an ideal platform to prospective students across the country, to get free expert advice and counselling about how to apply to study in at top ranked international universities in Australia, USA, Canada and UK. Representatives of more than 20 universities/institutes are participating at the expo providing golden opportunity for Pakistani students to get free guidance and counseling for their future study endeavors. Information about IELTS test and preparatory classes is also being provided at the expo. The first exhibition of the series was successfully held today at PC Hotel, Lahore. Hundreds of students along with their parents turned up at the expo with great interest and excitement to enroll for admissions at top ranked Australian and other leading International Universities. PR

Unity Foods, Vital Green team up to advance agriculture

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OPENS RS1.8B PROJECTS TO ENHANCE LIVING STANDARDS OF BALOCHISTAN’S MINE, INDUSTRIAL WORKERS ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

N a landmark move set to transform the lives of workers in Balochistan, Jawad Sohrab Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, inaugurated a series of welfare projects worth Rs1.8 billion. These initiatives, funded by the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF), are poised to significantly enhance living standards and educational opportunities for mine and industrial workers across the region. The cornerstone of these projects is the establishment of a Girls High School with Staff Residences in Muslim Bagh, Balochistan, designed to provide quality education to the children of 5,605 mine and industrial workers, symbolizing a substantial leap towards gender inclusivity and educational accessibility in the area. Constructed over 63,000 square feet and with an investment of Rs700 million, the school and residences represent a

beacon of hope for the future generation of Balochistan. SAPM Malik stressed on ensuring that the project is completed within 24 months. Addressing the pressing need for adequate housing, Mr Malik also laid the foundation stone for 100 worker residence quarters in Muslim Bagh. This housing project, covering 5 acres and costing an estimated Rs900 million, will

ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Former president FPCCI and Chairman Businessmen Panel (BMP), Mian Anjum Nisar criticizing the decision of government to make another raise in electricity tariff has urged the NEPRA to reverse the decision of hike in power charges, as it has increased tariff of power Distribution Companies by Rs4.56 per unit as part of the December fuel adjustment to recover Rs76 billion from trade and industry. In a statement issued here on Sunday, he said that this change in tariff will cause an additional burden of Rs40 billion on consumers. He said that it was unfortunate that during last two months, electricity prices have gone up by Rs8.69 due

to fuel price adjustment. In November alone, the electricity tariff was raised by Rs4.13. In just two months, the power tariff raise has put an additional burden of Rs76 billion on consumers. Mian Anjum Nisar said that the requests from these firms have come amid a prevailing inflation rate of 30 percent, suggesting that official estimates of declining inflationary trends might be less forthcoming because electricity and gas rates have a major contribution to the price baskets. Besides, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has kept its policy rate unchanged at a record 22pc, citing frequent energy price hikes that keep inflation at elevated levels. In their separate tariff petitions, the Discos have sought to rise

ISLAMABAD: Special Assistant to Prime Minister for Human Rights and Women Empowerment Mushaal Hussein Mullick has said that Kashmir Solidarity Day serves as a reminder that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are not alone in their struggle against the Indian illegal occupation. She was addressing a press conference along with senior Hurriyyat leaders Farooq Rehmani, Ghulam Muhammad Safi and Mehmood Ahmad Saghar. The Special Assistant to the Prime Minister emphasized the unwavering support of the people of Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the Pakistani and Kashmiri Diaspora, and the global community for their Kashmiri brethren in their just struggle for the right of self-determination. She described the people of Jammu and Kashmir as a barrier against Modi's attempts to create an Akhand Bharat. She characterized the Hindutva regime of India and the Zionist regime of Israel as significant threats to world peace. She asserted that both Modi and Netanyahu were in a race, with Modi pursuing a brutal genocide in Kashmir and Netanyahu in Palestine. Expressing deep concern over the situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), Mushaal said that the authentic. PR

about Rs81.5bn from their consumers in three coming months under the quarterly tariff adjustment for the October-December 2023 period. This was also on top of about a Rs6.5 per unit monthly fuel cost increase for the billing month of February that currently awaits a decision by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra). The regulator has accepted the respective tariff petitions and has called public hearings on Feb 14 to see if the proposed increase in tariff was justified in line with the quarterly tariff adjustment mechanism. The quarterly adjustments for Discos now also apply to K-Electric consumers as well under recent government and regulator decisions.

PIAF Founders Alliance of LCCI reiterates to continue serving businessmen LAHORE

Kashmir Solidarity Day opportunity to renew pledge to struggle for right to self determination: Mushaal

provide secure and comfortable homes for 100 families, directly tackling the housing shortage that plagues the workers' community. The project is set to complete with 24 months. In a gesture of continued commitment to education, Mr. Malik celebrated the completion of an educational project in Sibi, Balochistan, initially slated for completion in 2016. This school now opens its doors to

Power tariﬀ hike to put burden of Rs40b on trade, industry: Anjum Nisar

STAFF REPORT

KARACHI: Unity Foods is transforming Pakistan's agriculture with strategic collaboration! Unity Plantations, a subsidiary of Sunridge Foods within the Unity Foods Group, has officially signed a crucial agreement with Vital Green Limited. This marks a significant stride in elevating the agricultural value chain and ensuring the provision of top-notch farm inputs. A key initiative toward fostering sustainable growth and fortifying Pakistan's agricultural sector. PR

GOVT DETERMINED TO ENSURE EVERY WORKER, KIDS HAVE ACCESS TO RESOURCES: SAPM NEWS

The PIAF Founders Alliance, the ruling group of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), has reiterated its pledge of continuing to serve the business community with full vigor and passion like in the past, saying the Alliance was a symbol of the unity of the business community. The Alliance was fully united and there were no differences in the premier business community group of the provincial capital. It would win the forthcoming election with a thumping majority, as its manifesto stands for services to LCCI members, who want their businesses to grow; opening up LCCI doors to all.

These views were expressed in the meeting of the PIAF Founders Alliance held here on Sunday with its Chairman Mian Anjum Nisar in the chair. The meeting was attended by all the prominent leaders of the ‘PIAF’ and ‘Founders’, including former presidents of LCCI Sheikh Mohammad Asif, Muhammad Ali Mian, Shahzad Ali Malik, Mian Abuzar Shad, Shahid Hasan Sheikh, Tariq Misbahur Rahman, Abdul Basit and acting chairman of PIAF Nasrullah Mughal. The PIAF Founders Alliance Chairman Mian Anjum Nisar said that the 22-year long Alliance was as strong as a rock and no one can make a rift in this group whose sole aim is to serve the businessmen of all sectors without any biases.

Int’l Kashmir Lobby Group expresses solidarity with Kashmiris via cycle rally ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The International Kashmir Lobby Group on Sunday organized “Pedal for Peace: Kashmir Solidarity Day Cycle Rally” to show solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The rally, commencing at D Chowk and culminating at the Islamabad Press Club, was organized in commemoration of Kashmir Solidarity Day, seeking to raise aware-

ness and highlight the urgency for international support in addressing the challenges faced by the Kashmiri population. The event provided a platform for community leaders, activists, and organizers to address the participants, sharing insightful perspectives on the current situation of IIOJK. All the participants gathered at the Islamabad Press Club where speeches were featured that underscored the broader context of Kashmir Solidarity Day.

The participants of the rally collectively conveyed a message that the people of Pakistan stand with the people of IIOJK. More than 100 cyclists holding play cards in support with people of IIOJK participated in this event. The Youth Forum for Kashmir (YFK) was committed to addressing human rights issues and advocating for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir conflict in accordance with the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions.

Pak-China collaboration launches breakthrough insulin pen for diabetes treatment ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The launch event of Basagine Pen, a pre-filled insulin pen co-developed by Pakistan Getz Pharma and China Gan&Lee Pharmaceuticals, took place in Karachi last month. This marks a further development in the pharmaceutical collaboration between China and Pakistan. The milestone event was attended by Khalid Mahmood, CEO and Managing Director of Getz Pharma, and Du Kai, CEO of Gan&Lee Pharmaceuticals, according to a report carried by Gwadar Pro. "Getz Pharma has been a trusted overseas partner of our company for over a decade, with

previous collaborations involving raw materials of second-generation and third-generation insulin. The launch of the Basagine Pen will further enhance our product portfolio in diabetes treatment, leveraging the strengths of both companies." Du Kai highlighted the longstanding partnership between the two companies. According to data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Pakistan has approximately 33 million diabetes patients aged 20 to 79, with an annual average expenditure of USD80.1 per patient. The prevalence of diabetes among adults aged 20 to 79 in Pakistan stands at 30.8%. Unfortunately, many diabetes

patients in the country do not have access to timely and adequate medication. "The introduction of the Basagine Pen holds the promise of improving this situation by providing higher-quality and more accessible medication options for local patients," emphasized the representative from Getz Pharma. The collaboration between Gan&Lee Pharmaceuticals and Getz Pharma brings together China's advanced pharmaceutical technology and manufacturing capabilities with Pakistan's understanding of the local market and distribution networks. This synergy allows for the development and availability of innovative treatment options for diabetes patients in Pakistan.

the children of approximately 4,000 mine workers, further underscoring the government's dedication to workers' welfare. "These projects are not just buildings; they are the foundation of dreams for many families. They stand as a testament to the government's unwavering commitment to uplift the lives of our workers and their families," stated Mr. Malik during the inauguration. "We are determined to continue this journey, ensuring that every worker and their children have access to the resources they need to thrive." The SAPM praised the collaborative efforts of the WWF and the Workers Welfare Board Balochistan (WWBB) in bringing these projects to fruition. He emphasized the importance of expediting project cycles and expanding initiatives to reach smaller worker communities, ensuring swift and widespread benefits. Mr. Malik's directives to the WWF management to increase funding and extend more comprehensive relief to workers reaffirm his dedication to enhancing the welfare of workers nationwide. This initiative is a significant stride towards fulfilling the Prime Minister's vision of a prosperous and equitable future for all Pakistani workers, backed by a robust Rs1.8 billion investment from the Workers Welfare Fund.

Inflation pushed to over 38% due to high fuel prices: President DFPA

ISLAMABAD: President Disposable Food Packaging Association (DFPA) Ahsan Shahid on Sunday warned that the record inflation and high cost of doing business continued to hurt economic growth, demanding a careful policy to keep it in control, as weekly inflation has surged to new highs for the third consecutive week. In a statement issued here, he while quoting the data revealed a year-on-year increase of 38.66 percent in short-term inflation for this, marking an alarming trend in rising prices. He said the ongoing depreciation of the Pakistani rupee, coupled with soaring petrol prices, sales tax burdens, and mounting electricity bills were identified as the primary contributors to the persistent inflationary trend. Ahsan Shahid said that the most important factor contributing to inflation was the steep increase in petroleum products. These price hikes have led to elevated transport costs and have subsequently driven up the cost of moving goods, affecting consumers across the country. To meet local demand, Pakistan has become increasingly reliant on imports of essential vegetables, including tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, primarily sourced from neighboring Afghanistan, he added. The SPI basket, comprising 51 essential items, demonstrated notable fluctuations. Prices of 22 goods soared, 11 experienced price drops, and 18 remained unchanged compared to the previous week. Key items that witnessed substantial price increases compared to the same week the previous year include electricity charges, gas charges, rice, sugar, wheat flour, and more. Whereas, on a weekon-week basis, the largest price increases were observed in chicken, garlic, onions, shirting fabric, and matchboxes.It was pertinent to mention here that according to the latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast. PR

Handloom sector holds key importance in carpet, other products manufacturing: CTI

LAHORE: Chairperson of Carpet Training Institute (CTI), Ejazur Rahman has underscored the importance of handloom sector in manufacturing of carpets and stressed the need to plan in the context of manufacturing other products on handloom. Briefing a delegation that visited CTI on Sunday, he said, “The modern hand loom developed by the CTI can produce a wide range of products apart from carpets and in this regard, our rival neighboring country is successfully supplying to local markets and exporting globally.” Ejaz-ur-Rehman gave detailed information to the delegation regarding various departments of the institute and said that there was an urgent need to highlight the importance of handloom sector in Pakistan. In the current situation, we need to plan in a wider perspective apart from the production of handloom carpets for which different brands will have to help us to bring this idea to completion, he added. PR

Power supply to Karachi normalized following heavy rain

KARACHI: Power supply to the Karachi and adjoining areas was normalized following Saturday's unexpected heavy showers. KE field teams remain active in addressing localised faults while company leadership maintained a close watch on the situation. Per emergency safety protocols, power supply to low-lying areas or those with a high prevalence of kundas was temporarily suspended. These were gradually energized once weather subsided, following clearance from field teams. KE teams remain in close contact with city authorities. Spokesperson KE advised citizens to continue taking precautionary measures including maintaining a safe distance from all electric infrastructure. KE social media platforms remained available 24/7 to support customers and provide information. KE Live App and WhatsApp selfservice portal are also available for assistance. For emergency electrical complaints during rainy weather, call center 118 also remains available 24/7 to facilitate consumers. PR

Monday, 5 February, 2024

T-bills aTTracT $19m invesTmenT in January amid lingering poliTical uncerTainTy NEWS

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HOWEVER, ANTI-INVESTMENT SENTIMENT PERSISTS UNTIL AFTER GENERAL ELECTIONS PROFIT

NEWS DESK

N January, treasury bills and domestic bonds in Pakistan attracted a noteworthy $19.4 million in foreign investment, marking a renewed interest after a prolonged hiatus. The country has experienced a decline in attractiveness to foreign investors since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020. Earlier, significant inflows of $4.5 billion had been recorded in T-bills and Pakistan Investment Bonds (PIBs), but a substantial portion of these investments was repatriated within a few months during the Covid-19 crisis. Data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) for the current fiscal year FY24 revealed the second instance of foreign investment in T-bills, with $16 million previously received from the United Kingdom.

rate of about 16%, surpassing offers in other countries. Presently, T-bill returns are slightly below the 22% policy rate, which remains appealing despite the political uncertainty hindering greater inflows.

Over the past seven months, T-bills accumulated a total of $35.4 million, a modest figure compared to the $1.5 billion received in January 2020. Bankers attribute the earlier influx in 2020 to a relatively higher interest

Analysts suggest that while the economy faces no imminent threats, political uncertainty remains a deterrent to increased investment. The stability of the exchange rate and the State Bank’s foreign exchange reserves exceeding $8 billion provide a favorable backdrop for investments, according to a senior banker. However, the anti-investment sentiment persists until after general elections, with hopes for an improvement in the political landscape. The government’s launch of domestic bonds for foreign investment, paying returns in local currency, faced challenges due to prolonged uncertainty. Foreign investors, despite the stable exchange rate, remain cautious about potential fluctuations in the value of the Pakistani Rupee, given unchanged economic fundamentals. The recent IMF estimate of a 2% GDP growth rate for FY24 also contributed to disappointment among stakeholders and foreign investors.

Govt forms eight-member high-level committee for FBR restructuring g

COMMITTEE TASKED WITH COMPLETING, COORDINATING 12 CRITICAL ASSIGNMENTS WITHIN 7 DAYS PROFIT

NEWS DESK

ecp set to complete nationwide distribution of ballot papers today ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is set to conclude the distribution of 260 million ballot papers to the Returning Officers (ROs) of 859 constituencies nationwide by Monday (today). An ECP spokesperson said in a statement that the Commission has concluded the printing of ballot papers in three government printing presses for the upcoming Feb 8 elections Reprinting of ballot papers in particular controversial constituencies has been finalized, following the directives of the superior judiciary in specific court cases. The commission’s spokesperson noted that 220 million ballot papers were printed for the 2018 general elections, utilizing 800 tons of special security paper in the process. For the upcoming 2024 general elections, he said the Election Commission has printed 260 million ballot papers, using 2,170 tons of paper—a significant increase due to the surge in the number of candidates, which is 150 times more than the 2018 elections. The commission’s spokesperson said that various challenges, such as court cases and a high number of candidates, emerged during the ballot paper printing process. Despite these hurdles and within a limited time, the commission fulfilled its responsibility to print the papers, ensuring that voters can exercise their right to vote in the February 8 elections. Printing of ballot papers completed Earlier, the ECP successfully completed the printing of 260 million ballot papers for all constituencies in the country ahead of the 2024 elections. According to ECP spokesman, “National Assembly ballots are identifiable by green paper, whereas Provincial Assembly ballots are printed on white paper. Except for 31 districts, the distribution of printed ballot papers has been finalized across the nation.” Printing, which commenced on January 14, concluded by February 3. In compliance with a Supreme Court directive, ballot papers for 11 National Assembly and five Provincial Assembly constituencies underwent reprinting, with the original ones set for destruction as per the court order. ECP officials disclosed that this time, a total of 260 million ballot papers were printed, reflecting a 54.74% rise in candidates compared to the 2018 elections. Despite a 195% surge in demand for special paper, effective management led to a reduction from 2400 tonnes to 2177 tonnes.

The caretaker government has formed an eight-member highlevel Implementation and Asset Distribution Committee (I&ADC) to oversee the restructuring of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The committee, headed by the Minister for Finance and Revenue, includes members such as Secretary Law and Justice, Dr. Musharraf R Cyan, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad, Syed Nadeem Rizvi, Mukarram Jah Ansari, Afaq Ahmad Qureshi, and Additional Secretary Sajid Mehmood Qazi. The Ministry of Finance officially notified the I&ADC, which is tasked with completing and coordinating 12 critical assignments related to legal and human resources within seven days. These tasks include formulating statutory drafts to uphold

principles of operational autonomy and accountability, separation of tax policy from tax administration, oversight board mandates, and the Federal Policy Board’s role. Additionally, the committee will monitor sub-committees, resolve disputes, expedite drafting, review and approval of legal instruments, and ensure timely completion of tasks related to administrative and financial matters. The Terms of Reference (ToRs) also encompass issuing necessary rules, regulations, notifications, and ensuring the equitable distribution of human and financial resources among successor organizations. The I&ADC will comprise legal and finance and administration subcommittees. The Legal Subcommittee, chaired by the Secretary of Law & Justice, will draft legislative instruments, amendments to fiscal laws, and

relevant statutes. The Finance and Administration Sub-committee, chaired by the Special Secretary of the Establishment Division, will identify existing financial resources, assets, and human resources of the FBR, distributing them among successor organizations. The notification emphasizes that the committees may co-opt more members with prior approval. The I&ADC and its subcommittees are mandated to perform their functions within specified timelines, ensuring continuity of operations, smooth revenue collection, and minimal dislocation of officers and offices during the transition process. The Finance Minister serves as the final authority regarding the functioning, jurisdiction, or resolution of disputes arising from the work of the I&ADC or its subcommittees.

Balochistan bans public meetings, gatherings in Quetta QUETTA

STAFF REPORT

The Balochistan government on Sunday imposed a ban on public meetings and gatherings in Quetta, citing “severe security threats.” “The step has been taken in “response to a terror alert”, indicating the presence of a suspected female suicide bomber in Quetta”, Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai said in a post social media platform X (erstwhile Twitter). Achakzai emphasised the necessity of imposing restrictions on public gatherings and electoral meetings, urged all political parties and candidates to conduct their meetings indoors. While recognizing the importance of the electoral campaign, the Balochistan government underscored that public safety must be prioritized

BALOCHISTAN, KP WITNESS SHARP RISE VIOLENCE: As the general elections drawing nearer, a concerning surge in violence marked by several acts of terrorism has unfolded in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Prominent political figures have also been issued threats. The law enforcement agencies are grappling with the formidable challenge of upholding peace and stability in the region. On Thursday, one person was killed and five others injured in three separate attacks in Balochistan. In the first incident of violence, an individual lost his life and another sustained injuries as a blast occurred on Sabzal Road in Quetta. According to police, unidentified miscreants had planted an improvised explosive device on the roadside, resulting in a powerful explosion that claimed the life of a person on the spot.

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR SUNRISE

ZUHR

ASR MAGHRIB ISHA

6:15

1:30

4:30

solution to public problems remains priority of ppp, says asif Zardari 6:52

5:40

7:30

TALAGANG

STAFF REPORT

Former president and co-chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Asif Zardari has said that resolving the public problems always remained top priority of PPP and it paid special heed towards highlighting the social development work. While addressing a public gathering in Talagang on Sunday, he promised the people a chance to earn money in Pakistan instead of going abroad. Asif Ali Zardari said we will give you the chance to earn here adding that he would give them their due agricultural earnings. He highlighting how he served the people during his tenure said that the PPP always paid heed to the voice of the poor. “We made a card in the name of Benazir Bhutto to help poor women,” he pointed out. The PPP co-chairman said that he was aware that the people of Talagang needed water, infrastructure, passport offices, and also a place to visit the commissioner and his deputy. “The love you showed me for two days will never be forgotten,” he vowed. Earlier, Asif Ali Zardari said that the PPP could enter in alliance with any party after elections. In an informal conversation with journalists, Zardari said that he was working on a strategy for Bilawal Bhutto to become prime minister of the country. “It has been decided that the party that will win the majority, will be offered first opportunity to form its government,” PPP co-chairman said. “The independents would become important for all parties,” Zardari said.

Feb 8 must be the day to end corruption from country: siraj RAWALPINDI

STAFF REPORT

Jamaat-i-Islami Pakistan Emir Sirajul Haq said that the February 8 general elections will bring an end to corruption, illiteracy, poverty and unrest for the people of Pakistan. “February 8 elections will bring prosperity for the people of the country, it will bring peace,” Haq said while addressing a rally at Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi. “All the candidates that are sitting with me, they are all from the people,” he said. “I think that the poor people of Pakistan, the labourers, lawyers, capable doctors, social workers and business persons should come up,” he added. “Today, because of the People’s Party and Muslim league, 100 million people in this country live below the poverty line,” he said. “One prince says that my father was president, my mother was premier, my grandfather was prime minister so I should become the prime minister as it is my inheritance,” he said. “The other says I have been prime minister three times so I should become the premier for the fourth time,” Haq said. “I want to ask the people of Pakistan that for the past 40 years, these people have been forced on you [but] when will you respond? When will your turn come?” he asked. He said that the two parties had ruled the country for most of the time during the last 25 years but failed ‘miserably’ to resolve the public issues. Sirajul Haq said, “The Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz and Pakistan People’s Party ruled Pakistan many times and now the people have every right to ask them as to why they should be voted once again.” He said that those who could not deliver during the 25-year regime, how would they resolve the problems being faced by the masses this time around. “Pakistan has become indebted to the International Monetary Fund due to economic turmoil caused by the former rulers,” he added. Taking a jibe at the PML-N and the PPP, the JI Ameer said that the world has stepped on the moon and Pakistan is left behind in the politics of ‘two families’. He urged that this ‘family politics’ needs to be ended forever on February 8. Speaking on the Gaza situation and Israel’s atrocities in Palestine, Sirajul Haq said that our rulers did not utter a single word in favour of Palestine.

PTI condemns heckling of Justice Athar Minallah in London ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) UK chapter strongly condemned the incident in which Justice Athar Minallah was heckled in London, saying that the culprits “did not represent the party in any way.” The condemnation was issued late into night after videos emerged of Justice Minallah being harassed and heckled in the streets of London. Justice Minallah, a guest at the ‘Future of Pakistan Conference’ at the London School of Economics, faced harassment as he was escorted to a car by a group of people.

The hecklers chanted slogans in support of the PTI and against the army. In response to Justice Minallah being heckled, the official account for PTI UK posted a statement by Jahanzeb Khan, the senior vice president of the party’s chapter. The post was also shared by the party’s official account and PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan. “PTI UK strongly condemns the treatment meted out towards honourable Justice Athar Minallah. Those individuals who did it do not represent the PTI, nor does PTI UK endorse any such behaviour,” the party’s chapter said. Meanwhile, the statement attributed to Jahanzeb said,“ It has come to our attention that there are some notorious

individuals who are often referred to as ‘PTI supporters’ by certain journalists sympathetic to the N league in London.“ He alleged that those journalists “actually collaborate with some of the N league journalists themselves”. “These journalists deliberately orchestrate situations involving these individuals to create commotion whenever any government official from Pakistan visits London,” he said. “They do this in order to capture videos and blame PTI, further spreading their negative narrative against the PTI. It is important to note that protests conducted by overseas Pakistanis and genuine PTI supporters only occur under the official call of PTI UK and its regional bodies,” Jahanzeb said.

Cotton production surges by 75pc in current season, is it ‘significant’ increase? g

SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE IS ATTRIBUTED TO SINDH, WHERE HARVESTING SURGED BY 120 PERCENT TO 4.11 MILLION BALES PROFIT

MONITORING DESK

Pakistan’s cotton production has experienced a significant increase of 75% in the current season, reaching an impressive 8.35 million bales, as reported by Express Tribune. This surge is expected to positively impact the country’s largest export earner, the textile industry, and contribute to overall economic activities. It is said that favorable weather conditions and the government’s announcement of a higher commodity support price at Rs8,500 per 40kg for the ongoing season have played crucial roles in driving this un-

precedented growth. According to the Pakistan Cotton Ginner’s Association (PCGA), the reported production for the period (Jul-Jan) of fiscal year 2022-23 stands at 4.76 million bales. Breaking down the production data, the substantial increase is attributed to Sindh, where harvesting surged by 120% to 4.11 million bales in the current season compared to the previous one. The remaining production, totaling 4.24 million bales, came from Punjab, marking a 47% rise in the first seven months compared to the same period last year. However, acknowledging the 75 percent increase raises some questions as well.

Notably, last year, cotton production in the country saw a significant decrease of 34 percent compared to the crop yield of the previous season, as per data from the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA). This decrease was mainly due to heavy floods, particularly in Sindh province. The conclusive figures for the crop year 2022-23 indicate that Pakistan’s cotton output stood at 4,912,069 bales, marking the lowest production in approximately four decades. In contrast, the 2021-22 season witnessed a cotton production of 7,441,833 bales, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 2,528,764 bales or a 34 percent loss. Therefore, the increase in cotton pro-

duction this year must be viewed in the context of the last three/four years of production. Why is the production comparison only with one previous year? This means the current increase in production cannot be termed a ‘significant’ increase. Anyhow, the PCGA estimates the fullseason output to be in the range of 8-9 million bales this year. At the same time, Naseem Usman, Chairman of Karachi Cotton Brokers Forum, projects the total commodity production to reach 8.45 million bales by the end of the current season. The government’s announcement of a minimum purchasing price of Rs8,500 per

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

40kg has encouraged farmers to cultivate cotton over a larger area of agricultural land, according to industry officials. Ahsanul Haq, Chairman of Pakistan Cotton Ginners’ Forum, highlighted that despite the stability in cotton prices internationally, local textile and spinning mills are facing challenges. The industry is grappling with the rising cost of production due to increased energy prices, leading to discussions of potential protests. Textile mills are awaiting a reduction in electricity tariffs from 14 cents to 9 cents, while the government is considering another increase in gas prices under IMF instructions.