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PTI DECRIES ‘HISTORIC VOTE FRAUD’; SAYS 85 NA SEATS ‘SNATCHED’

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Saturday, 17 February, 2024 I 6 Shaban, 1445

SAYS IT HAS COMPILED DATA FOR 46 SEATS, WILL COMPILE DATA FOR REMAINING SEATS WITHIN 24-HOURS

Rs 20.00 | Vol XIV No 230 I 8 Pages I Islamabad Edition

EVIDENCE COMPRISING FORM 45, VIDEOS, SHARED WITH LOCAL, FOREIGN MEDIA

PTI to sit in opposition in Centre, Punjab on Imran’s directives: Saif

ISLAMABAD

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

TI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan on Friday said the February 8 general elections would be remembered due to the “biggest vote fraud” in Pakistan’s history against the party and its candidates. The PTI addressed a press conference in Islamabad on Friday on the alleged rigging. Nearly 60.6 million Pakistanis voted in the country’s 12th general elections last week. However, the poll day was marred by a day-long suspension of cellular services and allegations of rigging, prompting criticism from several countries. Foreign and domestic observers and stakeholders raised concerns over alleged electoral interference, including the detention of political activists. They emphasised that all accusations of irregularities, manipulation, and fraudulent activities warrant comprehensive investigation while political parties such as the PTI, Jamaat-i-Islami and Grand Demo-

cratic Alliance. “According to our estimates, only 92 [National Assembly seats] have been given to us out of 177 seats which were supposed to be ours. And 85 seats have been taken away from us fraudulently,” Hasan said, adding that the party was taking constitutional and legal steps in this regard. “We have verified data about 46 seats and it is being compiled for 39 seats,” he said. The PTI spokesperson said the party had three ways to ascertain alleged rigging in the polls, saying that there were discrepancies between the Form 45 and the Form 47. Hasan further said that there was also a huge difference in the numbers of votes polled for National Assembly and provincial assembly seats. He said that the number of rejected votes, in certain cases, exceeded the margin of victory. PTI’s Seemabia Tahir took the stage and played a video of alleged rigging in the polls. “We got 1.25m votes in Karachi [but] we did not get a single seat. Jamaat-i-Islami received 700,000 votes and not a single National Assembly

ISLAMABAD: Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, a leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced on Friday that, following the instructions of PTI founder Imran Khan, the party has decided to sit in opposition both at the Centre and in the province of Punjab. The decision was disclosed during a press conference held after a meeting between a PTI delegation and Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) chairman Aftab Khan Sherpao in Peshawar. Saif conveyed that the PTI is engaging with various political parties as per Imran Khan’s directives. He expressed concerns about election results, noting that there were instances where individuals who were expected to win by significant margins had their results reversed, posing a substantial challenge in the long run. “Future generations have to suffer the consequences of these conditions. On the instructions of PTI founder, we have decided to sit in opposition at the Center and in Punjab,” stated Saif.

seat in Karachi,” she said. “In Punjab, we got 13.6m votes and we were given 55 seats. This is a joke with the people of Pakistan,” she said. Showing graphics on a large screen, she said that at 3am on Feb 9, the PTI had won 154 seats in the National Assembly while the PMLN and PPP had won 47 each. She said that the party was winning 42 seats in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, of which some were stolen and the party was handed 37.

Highlighting the escalating political tensions, Saif mentioned protests by Jamaat-e-Islami and the announcement of a protest by JUI-F for the following day. He added that Mehmood Khan Achakzai had also expressed his dissatisfaction with the current political situation. Saif stated, “Today, Aftab Sherpao listened to us… we have discussed a permanent solution to this issue in accordance with democratic traditions.” He emphasised that the crux of the problem was economic instability and that the ongoing election crisis could potentially lead to political instability. Qaumi Watan Party Provincial Chairman Sikandar Hayat Khan, speaking at the press conference, expressed his party’s objections to the February 8 elections. He noted that the political situation was becoming increasingly complex, and the PTI’s initiative to discuss these issues was a step in the right direction. “We will discuss the matter with our party and then give an action plan,” said Sikandar Hayat Khan. STAFF REPORT

“From Islamabad, we were winning three and all three were stolen from us,” he said. “In Punjab we were winning 115 and 55 were given to us. In Balochistan we were getting four we got one,” she said. Lawyer Salman Akram Raja, who contested the polls with the PTI’s backing, said that the “rigging” which happened during the elections took place at the office of the returning officer (RO).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

Fazl backtracks on no trust move remarks, says took ‘Faiz’s name by mistake’ ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

PHC approves Ayub’s transit bail PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

The Peshawar High Court on Friday granted transit bail to Umar Ayub, a Prime Ministerial candidate facing a plethora of legal challenges. The decision comes after a hearing on petitions filed by Ayub, where his lawyer highlighted the staggering 24 cases registered against him across various cities including Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Gujranwala. During the hearing, the court deliberated on the appropriate duration for the bail, considering the extensive legal proceedings ahead. Chief Justice Mohammad Ibrahim Khan emphasized the importance of adhering to the law, acknowledging the considerable time required to address each case individually. Despite the lawyer’s plea for additional safeguards against potential arrests in supplementary cases, the Chief Justice affirmed the High Court’s bail grant, ensuring Ayub’s protection from detention. Under the court’s directive, Ayub is obliged to appear before the respective courts within the stipulated onemonth period. The decision marks a pivotal moment in Ayub’s legal battle, providing him with temporary relief amidst the ongoing legal scrutiny.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUIF) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday “clarified” his statement about former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa and exdirector general Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed in which he had accused both of orchestrating the downfall of the PTI government led by Imran Khan in 2022. “I was opposed to the idea of tabling a no-confidence motion against Imran Khan,” the JUI-F chief had said in an interview with a private TV channel while referring to the events unfolded in 2022 as the country saw for the first time in its history the ouster of a prime minister through a no-confidence vote. Maulana Fazl was among top opposition leaders who spearheaded the efforts to oust the PTI founder under the banner of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). In a statement issued today, Fazl provided an explanation about his earlier statement, saying that he took Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed’s name by “mistake”. However, he maintained his stance on General (retd) Bajwa and Gen (retd) Faiz’s alleged involvement in election rigging during the 2018 elections. “This matter should be consigned to history instead of being discussed more,” he asserted.

“I have told everything and that is enough. We wanted to remove the PTI government through noconfidence motion. PDM, PPP and ANP used to have daily meetings. General Bajwa has had many meetings with me alone,” he added. Talking about the recently-held elections and meeting with the PTI delegation, Fazl said that transparent elections did not take place anywhere including Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. “Despite our differences, PTI delegation came and held a positive meeting. But we emphasised [with them] that rigging did take place in K-P,” he added. He further said that he will not give priority to personal grudges over national goals. “Differences are there but they are not at a personal level but rather at the party level,” he concluded. The clarification from the JUI-

F leader follows intense scrutiny and speculation over his initial remarks, which had stirred controversy within Pakistan’s political circles. PPP’s Faisal Karim Kundi said that the JUI-F chief had benefited the most from the no-confidence vote against then-premier Imran Khan. He added that Fazl could have stopped the no-confidence move as he was the head of the PDM. Replying to Fazl’s allegation that his party’s mandate was stolen, Kundi said, “If it was stolen, then who was it given to? To the same delegation who visited him yesterday”. JUI-F chief’s initial remarks caught political analysts off guard, given his reputation as a staunch supporter of the establishment. Some speculate that his comments about Bajwa and Hameed stem from his sheer frustration over his recent defeat in general elections.

PML-N blames Imran for ‘seeking US interference’ on polls rigging allegations LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb stated on Friday that former premier Imran Khan inviting the US to interfere in the country’s elections goes against Pakistan’s sovereignty. Addressing a press conference along with party leader Ataullah Tarar, she questioned where Imran’s slogan of “Absolutely Not. We are not slaves” went when he urged the US to adopt a tough stance on ‘rigging’ in the recent general elections in Pakistan. Marriyum said that if anyone has objections to election results, they should approach the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). She criticised the propaganda being spread regarding non-definite results in the media. She emphasised that while they are not the spokespersons for the ECP, these are the laws. Furthermore, she accused the PTI of creating unnecessary “chaos and spreading anarchy” during the elections. Citing instances when similar situations occurred, the PML-N leader said that “the PTI was busy spreading chaos when the Chinese president was visiting; when electricity projects were being inaugurated”. “The RTS failed in 2018, and the PTI is talking about election rigging today?”. The PML-N leader argued that the PTI’s mindset is to spread chaos. “If they are experts in anything, it is in causing unrest, spreading turmoil, and economically destabilising the country,” she added. “Has any other party member asked for another country to interfere in our elections,” asked Marriyum. “This means you are a US agent, and you receive foreign funding from them,” the PML-N spokesperson said. She clearly told the media that “the PTI has completely lost” the general elections and if the party has any evidence of wrongdoing, they should approach the electoral watchdog as per the law. Marriyum further stated that there was no election fraud, and it takes time for Form 45 to be completed. She accused the PTI of sharing fake screenshots of Form 45s on social media. She concluded by stating that if there are objections to the elections, holding a press conference on an international media platform or a hotel is not the way to address the issue. She condemned the act of ‘inviting foreign interference’ in elections. US should adopt tough stance: Imran A day earlier, Imran demanded that the US adopts a tough stance on “rigging” in the recent general elections in Pakistan. After meeting Imran in Adiala Jail, PTI leader Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, accompanied by former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser, told the media that the former premier had pushed the US to take a tougher stance on the recent general polls. He further quoted Imran as saying that the US should be more vocal considering the manner in which the PTI was ousted from the polls. Barrister Saif said the PTI founding chairman believed that the US had supported the governments of dictators and corrupt people, but now it was presented with an opportunity to raise its voice on Pakistan’s election “rigging”. The statement came a day after the US Department of State said it was appropriate for the Pakistani state to investigate the allegations of rigging in the general elections. US questions conduct of elections The United States called into question the “undue restrictions” put in place during Pakistan’s electoral process and expressed concern about allegations of vote-rigging, but pledged to work with whoever forms the next government. Candidates loyal to jailed former prime minister Imran Khan were ahead as vote counting dragged on following Thursday’s election. His Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was faring better than expected despite a crackdown targeting the party, but the next government was still likely to be formed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) after a spell of political horse-trading. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Washington looked forward to “timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people”, as he listed the US’ concerns with the process. “We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly,” Miller said in a statement.

Political crisis may lead to imposition of martial law or emergency, warns Pir Pagara HYDERABAD AGENCIES

Pir Sibghatullah Shah Rashidi, popularly known as Pir Pagara, the chief of the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), issued a stark warning on Friday, predicting that the coalition government would collapse within 10 months, possibly leading to an imposition of emergency or martial law in the country. Speaking at a protest sit-in against alleged election rigging at Jamshoro Bypass, Pir Pagara stated that the GDA’s stance wasn’t merely about contesting the recent elections but about unveiling the systemic irregularities that plagued the electoral process. “We were not interested in the elections because the results were ready three months ago,” Pir Pagara declared. “Today, they have

been exposed nationally and internationally.” Emphasising that their protest solely targeted election fraud, the GDA chief underlined the significance of the military in ensuring the security of the country, stating, “The army is our own, and we cannot even think of going against it.” He warned that removing the army from the equation would plunge the nation into a state akin to Palestine, hinting at the precariousness of the current political landscape. Pir Pagara defended former prime minister Imran Khan against accusations of corruption, asserting, “If he is a thief, then we all are thieves.” He highlighted the broader systemic issues in governance, suggesting a collective responsibility for past transgressions. Acknowledging the political prowess of PTI supporters during the recently held elec-

tions, he commended their efforts, indicating a growing disillusionment with the prevailing judicial and governmental mechanisms. “If you don’t give justice, then people find out another way to seek justice,” he remarked. Expressing concern over the absence of national-level leadership in Pakistan, Pir Pagara urged decision-makers to prioritise the country’s welfare over personal agendas. “The more a leader lies, the bigger leader he becomes,” he cautioned. Reflecting on the economic hardships faced by the middle class, the GDA chief lamented the rampant inflation, hinting at a looming crisis. Concluding his address with a prayer, Pir Pagara invoked divine intervention, imploring Allah SWT to grant wisdom to the nation’s leaders, military, and judiciary, urging them to safeguard the country’s interests and its people.

WEEKLY INFLATION DECREASES BY 0.78% NEWS

T g

SPI data shows an increase of 34.25% in prices of essential commodities on yearly basis

HE Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) recorded that weekly inflation decreased by 0.78% for the week ended on February 15, 2024, while on yearly basis, the trend depicts an increase of 34.25% in the prices of essential commodities. According to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PSB), a major decrease was observed in the prices of eggs (28.82%), chicken (4.23%), onions (3.48%), LPG (2.85%), gur (1.13%), wheat flour (0.32%), tomatoes (0.29%), pulse masoor (0.28%) and mustard oil (0.18%). On the other hand, price increase was observed in the prices of bananas (4.64%),

potatoes (2.80%), matchbox (1.31%), long cloth (1.29%), cooked daal (0.77%), shirting (0.63%), energy savers (0.62%), pulse moong & rice basmati (0.56%) each, mutton (0.48%), cooked beef (0.39%) and pulse mash (0.35%). During the week, out of 51 items, prices of 22 (43.14%) items increased, 11 (21.57%) items decreased and 18 (35.29%) items remained stable. The year-on-year trend depicts an increase of 34.25%, gas charges for Q1 (1108.59%), tomatoes (134.09%), chilies powder (81.74%), cigarettes (77.13%), wheat flour (66.12%), gents sponge chappal (58.05%), sugar (54.59%), gents sandal

(53.37%), gur (49.38%), salt powdered (39.97%) tea Lipton (33.22%), garlic (32.06%). On a yearly basis, a decrease was observed in the prices of bananas (18.29%), mustard oil (15.67%), vegetable ghee 1 KG (15.34%), cooking oil 5 litre (10.35%), vegetable ghee 2.5 KG (9.56%), LPG (8.50%) and diesel (0.33%). A Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) is computed every week to assess the price movement of essential commodities at a shorter interval of time to review the price situation in the country. SPI comprises 51 essential items collected from 50 markets in 17 cities of the country.

Goldman Sachs sees Pakistan’s dollar bonds to rebound g

Saturday, 17 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

Low reserves and an IMF program expiring in April mean political parties have no choice but to work together, say analysts PROFIT

Bloomberg

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. says that Pakistan’s dollar bonds will rebound, overcoming a fractured election mandate, as the leaders of the emerging coalition understand the gravity of the economic crisis and will work together to secure International Monetary Fund aid. The South Asian nation’s bonds rallied Thursday, led by notes maturing in April 2024, after the third-biggest group in the new parliament pledged support for former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take office again. Sharif already has a track record with the IMF, having obtained a nine-month, $3 billion program from the multilateral lender last June. The latest bond gains helped pare post-election

losses that had reached 5% amid a split verdict. “While near-term political uncertainty is still high, we think idiosyncratic risks are likely to be resolved,” analysts led by Kamakshya Trivedi wrote in a note, adding that Pakistan’s low reserves and an IMF program expiring in April mean political parties have no choice but to work together, “which should allow for a reversal of the recent under-performance of Pakistan’s USD bonds.” Sharif echoed some of that urgency this week when he said Pakistan needs to secure a new loan program at the earliest. The nation is running out of time to find the money to meet $25 billion of external debt payments starting July, three times its foreign exchange reserves. Its inflation rate is the highest in Asia, while the

OGRA announces 9pc reduction in RLNG prices for February PROFIT

News Desk

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) announced a reduction in Regassified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) prices for February 2024. The decrease, affecting the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGC), varies between 8.7% to 9%, marking a substantial shift in energy pricing dynamics. For SNGPL customers, the new RLNG prices for distribution and transmission have been set at $11.55 per Million British Thermal Units (MMBtu) and $12.49 per MMBtu, respectively. This adjustment represents a decrease of approximately $1.1 per MMBtu for transmission and $1.2 per MMBtu for distribution from January 2023 prices. Similarly, SSGC has adjusted its RLNG prices to $11.13 per MMBtu for transmission and $12.96 per MMBtu for distribution. Compared to the previous month, this change constitutes a reduction of $1.1 per MMBtu for transmission and $1.29 per MMBtu for distribution. This price revision comes as part of the federal government’s policy directives aimed at adjusting energy costs in line with market dynamics and alleviating the financial burden on consumers.

economy contracted last fiscal year. Investors demand an additional 11.5 percentage points of yield over Treasuries to buy the country’s bonds, much above the 10 percentage points seen as the threshold of distress. The IMF has already said its team will visit Pakistan after the new government is formed to discuss a medium-term package. “We do not see any of these stakeholders to be a holdout in the upcoming IMF negotiations,” said Dhiraj Bajaj, lead portfolio manager for Asia and Emerging Markets debt at Lombard Odier, referring to the major political parties tipped to form a new government. “The only way forward to their success to stay in power is an IMF program, and to then regain bilateral funding and meet

their external liabilities. We believe this outcome is good for shorter and mid-dated USD bonds for now.” The nation’s dollar bonds delivered some of the best returns in emerging markets last year, gaining over 90%. They carried much of that momentum through January as the IMF made its final disbursal under a program that also facilitated bilateral finance from friendly countries, bringing Pakistan back from the brink of default. Goldman analysts also cautioned that the outlook for Pakistan’s bonds beyond a short-term rebound will depend on global financial conditions. Investors will weigh the risk of sticky US inflation and a longer wait for Federal Reserve rate cuts, which will act as a drag on all distressed debt including Pakistan’s, the analysts wrote.

Suzuki Japan proposes acquisition of Pak Suzuki minority shares g

Parent company commences share purchase at price of Rs609 per share approved by PSX PROFIT

News Desk

Suzuki Motor Corporation has decided to acquire minority shares of Pak Suzuki Motor Company (PSMC) at Rs609 per share, a proposition that has been approved by the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). This announcement was made through a notice to the PSX, highlighting that Suzuki Motor Corporation, as the majority shareholder, aims to purchase all shares not held by the sponsor/majority shareholder. The share purchase offer is scheduled to commence from February 22, 2024, to April 21, 2024, both days inclusive. Following this timeframe, plans are in place for the company to be removed from the listing on the PSX. This offer is extended to all existing shareholders of PSMC, ensuring that payments for

purchased shares will be completed within three weeks of issuing the receipt. Transactions will occur via the PSX trading system, with payments to sellers following the PSX’s clearing schedule. In another event on February 9, 2024, shareholders’ approved a special resolution at the Extraordinary General Meeting for the PSMC’s delisting from the PSX. Moreover, earlier in the month, Nadeem Nisar, holding 10% of the company’s shares, expressed opposition to the delisting price set by EFG Hermes, an independent valuation firm. In a letter to the PSX authorities, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and the Chairman of Pak Suzuki, Nisar contested that the delisting price of Rs 609 per share significantly undervalues the company, failing to meet both local and international valuation standards.

Mari Petroleum announces major gas discovery in Balochistan g

Dughan and RaniKot formation shows a flow of 4.14 MMSCFD PROFIT

News Desk

In a landmark development for Pakistan’s energy sector, Mari Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL) on Friday announced a major gas discovery at the Maiwand X-1 ST-1 well, located in Block 28 of the Kohlu District in Balochistan. This was disclosed to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the exploration well was spudded on June 12, 2023, and reached a final depth of 2,516 meters by November 12, 2023. The testing of the well has shown promising results, with gas flow rates from various formations. The Dughan & RaniKot formation, following post-completion rates, showed a flow of 4.14 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) of gas at a wellhead flowing pressure (WHFP) of 186 psi using a 64/64” choke size. Other formations, including Pab & Mughal Kot and Mughal Kot Sst and Lst, showed gas flows of 0.79 MMSCFD and 1.11 MMSCFD, and 0.38 MMSCFD, respectively, after acid wash and acid stimulation processes. MPCL, which operates Block 28 with a 95% working interest alongside the Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) holding the remaining 5% interest, has been at the forefront of exploration activities in the region.

Dewan Farooque Motors plans to kickstart local assembly of KIA Shehzore PROFIT

News Desk

Dewan Farooque Motors Limited on Friday announced its plans to kickstart the local assembly operations of the special purpose KIA Commercial Vehicles in Pakistan with its product KIA SHEHZORE very soon in 2024. In a notice sent to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), Dewan Farooque Motors expressed its dedication to providing people with high-quality vehicles and after-sales services through a comprehensive nationwide dealership network. Dewan Farooque signed a Technical License Agreement (TLA) with KIA Corporation (Commercial), Republic of Korea, for the assembly/manufacturing of vehicles on November 7, 2023.

Bearish trend becomes a new norm at PSX g

Uncertainty on political front weakens investors’ confidence PROFIT

News Desk

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed another decline amid growing political instability, with the benchmark KSE-100 index losing 1.88% of its value during the Friday trading session. According to the PSX website, the KSE-100 index has fallen to 59,872.96, down by 1147.09 points. Analysts attribute the decline in market sentiment to escalating political uncertainty and its expected adverse effects on the country’s economic stability. The KSE-100 index fell by 1.82% on Thursday, closing at 61,020.05 – a decrease of 1133.79 points.

Reds dominate a few greens across all sectors, including commercial banks, oil and gas marketing companies, pharmaceuticals, and power generation and distribution sectors. On the political front, the latest updates indicate that PTI has selected Omar Ayub Khan as its prime ministerial candidate, while PML-N and PPP made progress in developing a strategy for forming a government. Bulls may enter the PSX once the formation of the coalition government and the powersharing formula becomes clear, potentially boosting the confidence of equity investors.

Hub Power to acquire 9.5% shares of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company g

Proposed transaction is subject to necessary corporate and regulatory approvals PROFIT

News Desk

In a bid to expand its footprint in the energy sector, the Hub Power Company Limited has entered into a definitive agreement for the acquisition of shares of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company Limited (SECMC). According to a notice sent to the Pakistan Stock

Exchange, this acquisition is equivalent to approximately 9.5% of the issued and paid-up ordinary share capital of SECMC, currently held by Habib Bank Limited (HBL). However, the completion of the proposed transaction is subject to the necessary corporate and regulatory approvals and consents, and other conditions. The company shall keep the PSX informed in respect of material developments in this respect, if any.

Saturday, 17 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

ARAMCO’S $10B REFINERY PROJECT PROPOSED TO BE INCLUDED IN CPEC

NEWS

A series of diplomatic and business interactions have paved the way for this proposal

PROFIT

moNItoRING DeSk

HE Government of Pakistan is considering the integration of a $10 billion Saudi Aramco refinery project into the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), according to sources within the Petroleum Division. This development follows discussions between Pakistan and Saudi

Arabia aimed at expanding their cooperation in the refining and petrochemicals sector. In a meeting on December 22, 2023, Pakistan’s Deputy Ambassador in Beijing engaged with the leadership of Sinopec Engineering Group (SEG), including its President Zhang Xinming. The discussions, as reported by Business Recorder, centered around Aramco’s proposal to involve Sinopec as

both a technical and equity partner in the proposed Greenfield refinery and petrochemicals project. A series of diplomatic and business interactions have paved the way for this proposal. Initially, an MoU was signed on February 17, 2019, between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to explore investment opportunities. This was followed by a confidentiality agreement signed in April 2019 between Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and

Saudi Aramco, marking the beginning of a deeper engagement on this front. However, the project faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Pakistan’s economic uncertainties, leading to a temporary waning of Saudi interest. Despite these challenges, negotiations resumed, focusing on addressing Aramco’s demands, including a 7.5% deemed duty on diesel and gasoline for the project’s

Caretaker PM Kakar lauds SIFC initiatives for economic revival g

Kakar expresses optimism that future administrations will continue these policies for sustained economic, industrial growth PROFIT

NewS DeSk

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar announced the success of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) initiatives, aimed at bolstering the national economy. In a meeting with members of the Pakistan Association of Large Steel Producers (PALSP) and industrialists from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kakar outlined the caretaker government’s

initiatives to foster a business-friendly environment and enhance private sector engagement, aiming to spur development and increase tax revenues. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad, was attended by prominent figures such as the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, Jameel Ahmed, the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and secretaries from relevant ministries.

The interim prime minister underscored the government’s commitment to promoting exports and creating employment opportunities, expressing optimism for the continuity of these policies by future administrations for sustained economic and industrial growth. Kakar praised the collective efforts of the caretaker finance minister, FBR leadership, and the business community for their role in economic reforms and restoring investor confidence.

He specifically highlighted the importance of investing in the steel industry and the exploration of new iron ore deposits as crucial for the nation’s development. The discussion also covered the achievements of Pakistan’s steel and copper sectors, which stand as the fourth-largest export sector, with copper exports reaching $1.35 billion in the last financial year. The meeting underscored the low per capita steel consumption of 40 kilograms in Pakistan, pointing to a significant growth potential, and noted the steel industry’s contribution of Rs400 billion in annual tax revenue, emphasizing the sector’s vital role in the economy.

Textile, clothing exports showcase some resurgence in economy g

Sector sees 10% growth in January, exports reaching $1.45b ISLAMABAD

Shah Mehmood moves IHC against conviction in cypher case ISLAMABAD

Staff RePoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vice chairman and former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday moved Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the conviction in cypher case. On Jan 30, a special court established under the Official Secrets Act handed both former prime minister Imran Khan and ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi 10 years in jail in the cypher case. As per details, Shah Mehmood Qureshi filed the plea against the cypher case conviction and urged IHC to declare the trial court’s January 30 verdict null and void. The plea stated that the trial of cipher case was not proceeded as per the law and the process was violated in the trial which started on August 15. It is important to mention here that the cypher case pertains to a diplomatic document that the Federal Investigation Agency’s charge sheet alleges was never returned by Imran. The PTI claimed the document contained a threat from the United States to oust Imran as prime minister. Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi were facing trial in cypher case in Adiala Jail from last year for ‘distorting’ the facts of the diplomatic cypher. Both the PTI leaders were accused of conspiracy to misuse the contents of the cipher to fulfill nefarious purposes. The first information report (FIR) was registered on August 15 under the Official Secrets Act. It was registered on the complaint of the Home Secretary.

PTI decries ‘historic vote fraud’; says 85 NA seats ‘snatched’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

“Normally one talks of rigging at polling stations, where the accusation is that the rival candidates carried out the rigging. But once the votes have all been brought to the office of the RO [… ] and once Form 45, that tabulates the result in every polling station, has been brought to the office of the RO, one expects that the final aggregate based on the results from each of the polling stations would be done fairly by the RO.” He said that what happened on election night and Feb 9 was a “massive assault” on democracy in Pakistan. He alleged that “fictitious” Form 47s were created and the Form 45s were “tampered with”. “What is the point in holding an election if you are going to create a result out of thin air?” he asked. “If the state officials responsible for safeguarding the election can be won over […] then every election to be carried out in Pakistan becomes a farce,” Raja added.

“If this is not reversed then it spells death for democracy in Pakistan. This was not just an election fraud, it was a wholesale assault on democracy in Pakistan,” the lawyer said. Ayaz Amir, who contested with the support of the PTI, said along similar lines: “What were mechanics of rigging in my Chakwal constituency NA-58 […] the one thing done early in the evening was that the office of the returning officer (RO) was sealed.” He said the RO’s office was sealed by the police and the “caretakers of the caretakers”. Amir said that he visited the RO office at 6pm on election day but he was kicked out around 7:30-8pm. “Which means that the RO and other people were there and they could do what they wanted,” he said. He said that he was in possession of the “original” Form 45 of all polling stations in his constituency. Usman Dar’s mother Rehana Dar, who contested the Feb 8 polls with the support of the PTI

from NA-71, said that she was a housewife who had nothing to do with politics but was compelled to contest the elections. She alleged that her house was raided on the directives of PML-N’s Khawaja Asif. Rehana said that thousands of “brave sons, mothers and daughters” showed her support in the polls. “The votes were not for me, they were for Imran Khan. The city of Sialkot loves Imran Khan,” she said. “Contest elections outside. Don’t break doors and disrespect a mother,” she said. “If you want, I am ready to contest the polls again,” she added. Meanwhile, party leader Khurram Sher Zaman lamented the “daylight robbery” in Karachi during the polls. He decried that seats were “handed out” to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan. He noted that when the PTI formed its government in 2018, Karachi had played the biggest role in this regard.

lifespan, and the engagement of Chinese contractors to mitigate execution and investment risks. Responding to these demands, the Greenfield Refinery Policy 2023 was approved, offering incentives to foreign investors and aligning with Aramco’s revised focus towards a petrochemical complex, moving away from traditional fuel-based refineries. This shift reflects Aramco’s broader strategy and its successful joint ventures with Sinopec in China and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

OpenAI launches Sora, a new AI model for generating videos PROFIT

moNItoRING DeSk

OpenAI has introduced Sora, a revolutionary AI model capable of creating videos up to 60 seconds long from simple text prompts. This model can produce detailed scenes with multiple characters and complex backgrounds, showcasing a deep understanding of user prompts and their physical world implications. Sora aims to assist in solving real-world problems through enhanced AI interaction, marking a significant step forward in the generative AI field. Despite its innovative features, Sora is still being refined, facing challenges with spatial details and cause-effect relationships in generated content. The launch of Sora continues OpenAI’s momentum in advancing AI technology, following the success of their ChatGPT chatbot. The model’s potential impact on digital entertainment and content creation is notable, offering personalized content generation across various platforms. This development occurs amidst cautionary advice from SEC chairman Gary Gensler regarding the hype around AI advancements. OpenAI’s Sora represents both the progress and ongoing challenges in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

Elections 2024: IPP wins NA-88 Khushab, PTI clinches PK-90 Kohat seat after re-polling ISLAMABAD

Ghulam abbaS

Pakistan’s textile and clothing exports have experienced a notable upturn for the second consecutive month, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Friday. The sector saw a commendable growth of 10.1% in January, with exports reaching $1.45 billion, marking a significant increase from $1.32 billion recorded in the same month the previous year. This positive trend follows a 3.33 % year-on-year increase in December, signaling a potential resurgence in the country’s export proceeds. However, despite these recent improvements, the sector faced a challenging start to the fiscal year 2024, with a negative growth of 2.99 % in the first seven months, dropping from $10.03 billion to $9.73 billion. The decline in exports during the initial months of the fiscal year was primarily attributed to escalating production costs, driven by higher energy costs and a liquidity crunch. In response, the Commerce Ministry announced plans to offer regionally competitive energy prices to textile exporters and expedite pending sales tax refunds to address cash flow issues. However, the implementation of these measures is still pending. In the previous fiscal year 2023, textile and clothing exports contracted by 14.63 %, contributing to an overall decline in total merchandise exports, which fell by 12.71 % to $27.54 billion from $31.78 billion in the preceding year. Sector Breakdown: Readymade Garments: Exports surged by 13.85 per cent in value and 28.06 per cent in quantity. Knitwear: Recorded growth of 8.39 per cent in value and an impressive 69.84 per cent in quantity. Bedwear: Posted positive growth of 19.26 per cent in value and 25.63 per cent in quantity. Towels: Experienced an increase of 5.41 per cent in value and 11.45 per cent in quantity. Cotton Cloth: Marginal increase of 0.46 per cent in value but a significant surge of 49.26 per cent in quantity.

Staff RePoRt

IMPORT TRENDS: Textile Machinery: Declined by 34.81 per cent in January, indicating a lack of emphasis on expansion or modernization projects. Synthetic Fibre and Yarn: Saw an increase, reflecting potential shifts in production strategies. Raw Cotton and Yarn: Exports increased substantially, suggesting a focus on raw material exports rather than value-added products. OIL IMPORTS AND MACHINERY ARRIVALS: Oil Imports: Experienced a notable decline of 12.06 per cent in the first seven months of FY24, attributed to reduced transportation amid economic slowdown. Machinery Imports: Increased by 16.61 per cent, mainly driven by a surge in telecom equipment imports, particularly mobile phones. However, other categories of machinery recorded negative growth. Transport Sector Imports: Witnessed a significant decline, indicating potential challenges in the transportation industry amidst economic fluctuations. The recent improvements in textile and clothing exports offer a glimmer of hope for Pakistan’s economy, but sustained efforts and policy interventions are crucial to ensure continued growth and resilience in the face of economic challenges.

Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) has grabbed the NA-88 Khushab seat, according to unofficial and unconfirmed results after re-polling. IPP’s Gul Asghar Khan was declared the winner by RO with 82577 votes. With the win from NA-88, the number of IPP seats in NA has jumped to three. Meanwhile, according to unconfirmed and unofficial results of PK-90 Kohat, Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) backed candidate Aftab Alam Afridi emerged as victorious with 45358 votes. Re-polling at the 53 polling stations in Khushab, Kohat and Ghotki was held on Thursday after the angry mob snatched and burned the ballot papers on February 8. At this, Chief Justice Ibrahim Khan granted one-month protective bail to PTI leader and said that no one will arrest him after the bail.

Justice (r) Mazahar Naqvi says SJC ‘exceeding its powers’ ISLAMABAD INP

Mazahar Ali Naqvi, SC judge who resigned after misconduct allegations, on Friday alleged Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) is ‘exceeding its powers’,. Naqvi, who is facing ‘misconduct’ allegations in the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) forwarded his resignation to the President of Pakistan, Dr Arif Alvi in January. In a letter penned to the secretary SJC, the former judge termed the order of January 12 ‘illegal’ as he resigned from the SC judge post on January 10. “Notification of my resignation was also published in the gazette.”

04 COMMENT

Upholding rule of law and human rights

Saturday, 17 February, 2024

Pussyfooting around the main problem

China's white paper on counterterrorism

Neither the PPP nor the PML(N) has any idea of how to tackle the economy

HE pebbles in the way of the PML(N) and PPP forming a government may be removed from their way, but it seems that there is no idea of what to do with the government once it is formed. There may be a dim realization that the old game of ins and outs, the exploiting of the holding of office, is now not going to wash, that the crisis is now too deep for comfort, that perhaps something new must be done. The government has seems to be taking shape is one to be led by PML(N) President Mian Shehbaz Sharif, with the only clarity about the role of the PPP being that it will support it. At least initially, it is expected to do so from outside, and will accept ministries only in a second phase, presumably along with the sort of accommodation of its own stalwarts and other allies as is usual in any coalition. The PTI has put forward Umar Ayub Khan as its candidate for PM. Mr Khan is not a winning candidate, for he does not seem to be trying to put together the numbers. He is about as public an acknowledgement of defeat as the PTI seems ready to make. In the same way, Mr Aslam Iqbal’s being named as candidate for Punjab CM also indicates that the PTI does not think it will be forming the Punjab government. Both are at the moment still avoiding arrest over the May n9 attacks, and there thus remains a question mark over their turning up to take oath as Assembly members. In other words, it almost seems as if, by choosing them to contest, the party itself is going to surrender them. The PML(N) may once again be burdened with choosing the Finance Minister. Though the parties are surprisingly silent over economic policy, considering that one view is that the poor economic performance of the outgoing government was the catalyst for the PTI’s success, the coalition does not seem to be paying enough attention to this choice. The PML(N) seems to be contemplating the return of Senator Ishaq Dar, not just because he is an economic wizard, but because he is very much Mian Nawaz’s man, and can oversee Mian Shehbaz for him. The problem is, Senator Dar may have been irremediably tarnished by his previous stint, and may not instill the kind of confidence a Finance Minister should.

DR IMRAN KHALID

VER the past four decades, China has been updating a robust legal framework to combat terrorism, placing a strong emphasis on adherence to the rule of law. The just-released white paper titled "China's Legal Framework and Measures for Counterterrorism" highlights the country's commitment to ensuring that all counterterrorism efforts are firmly grounded in legal principles. Notably, the document underscores China's commitment to respecting and safeguarding human rights, considering it a fundamental tenet in the ongoing refinement of its legal framework and practices related to counterterrorism. This holistic approach reflects China's proactive stance in addressing security challenges while upholding the principles of justice and human rights. The white paper on counterterrorism represents a significant stride in providing clarity and transparency surrounding the nation's legal governance in this domain. The foreword of this seminal document emphasizes the imperative of legal frameworks in counter-terrorism, elucidating the meticulous construction of governance that underpins effective counter-terrorism measures. As the first comprehensive elucidation of China's counter-terrorism efforts, the white paper serves as a global reference document, providing insight into the legal foundations and operational dimensions of China's approach to counter-terrorism. By providing an in-depth insight into China's counter-terrorism legislation and practices, it acts as a potent antidote to misinformation and unfounded rumors, particularly surrounding China’s efforts in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. This launch marks a pivotal moment for clarity, dispelling misconceptions and fostering a nuanced comprehension of China's commitment to robust counter-terrorism measures within the bounds of legal governance. In the face of persistent terrorism threats, China has undertaken a comprehensive exploration of lawbased counterterrorism, seeking a profound comprehension of its dynamics and deploying suitable countermeasures. Drawing insights from global experiences, China has meticulously crafted and implemented counterterrorism laws. The Counterterrorism Law, enacted on 27 December 2015, has so far served as a pivotal milestone, offering a precise definition of terrorist activities. Crucially, this definition aligns

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

with the principles outlined in international conventions, underscoring China's adherence to globally accepted standards in combating terrorism. The white paper symbolizes the evolution of China's legal safeguards, providing a robust foundation for its intensified counterterrorism initiatives. By consistently enhancing its legal framework, China has demonstrated a proactive stance in safeguarding its citizens and ensuring national security. In a notable departure from previous white papers on a similar subject, the State Council Information Office has expanded its focus beyond Xinjiang in its latest white paper on counter-terrorism. While previous releases delved into the specifics of counter-terrorism efforts, de-radicalization, human rights protection and vocational education in Xinjiang, the new document takes a panoramic view, encompassing the entirety of China. This shift represents a significant aspect of the paper, offering a more comprehensive understanding of China's counter-terrorism legal system. By extending its scope beyond Xinjiang, the document aims to provide a systematic exposition of China's counter-terrorism measures. At the same time, this initiative reflects China's commitment to open dialogue and international understanding, emphasizing its proactive approach in addressing the complex challenges of counterterrorism across the entire nation. Critics of China's counterterrorism endeavours often use the rhetoric of "rule of law" and "human rights" to cast aspersions, yet their arguments belie a glaring double standard. These Western detractors, motivated by narrow political agendas, conveniently overlook the human toll exacted by terrorist atrocities within China's borders. Their selective outrage reveals a myopic view that undermines the broader fight against terrorism. China has indeed made significant strides in its efforts to combat terrorism, yet it finds itself ensnared in a web of unsubstantiated allegations propagated by the USA and its Western allies. The realm of counterterrorism has become a fertile ground for the dissem-

Babar Nizami Editor Profit

Editor’s mail

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan. E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Property business in Pakistan

The process was far from perfect, but still must be respected

AttIyA MuNAweR

LECTIONS have been held all over the country, but how have these elections been conducted that there is a noise of rigging everywhere? Someone is hollering at the door of the Election Commission and someone is demanding justice from the judiciary. It appears as if democracy has once again been shattered in the name of elections. BBC has also stated in its report that Pakistan has not learnt anything from past mistakes and stability in the country is not visible following these controversial elections. Strangely, stability in the country is the most pressing need of the hour, but no one is serious about bringing it to the country. Everyone here is pursuing their interests at all costs and deviating from their own narrative. PPP chairman Bilawal Zardari Bhutto, while explaining the party policy for government formation after the general elections, said that he will not form a government together with the PML(N), he also said that it would be a shameful to be fooled twice by one person and the majority of the people do not want to see Nawaz Sharif become Prime Minister for the fourth time, but now the leadership of the PML(N) and the PPP are meeting to form the government, they are settling matters with each other that in one term both will enjoy the Prime Ministership and it appears that the strings of both parties are being pulled from somewhere else. This situation indicates that the story will proceed under the script, regardless of the public. The Army Chief has also stated that the nation requires redemptive communication to move beyond the politics of anarchy while the people are in shock that their decision is being changed once again and what was rejected by the people is being brought back. How long will the people’s perspective be held hostage by force and will they continue to tolerate everything silently? The people’s patience is wearing thin; they have witnessed how their votes have been humiliated and how late-night election results have been shown to be different, no one has stopped this process, rather the Election Commission of Pakistan has also appeared to be helpless. Seeing all this helplessness, International observers have also had to say that freedom of expression was not given in the elections in Pakistan, nor was access to the Internet and telecommunication services given. Condemning

this coercive situation of election-day, the US spokesperson says that the USA is concerned about the allegations of interference in the election process or that all claims of rigging in the election should be thoroughly investigated. But how will this all be done? When even the media is under siege and repression is so severe that no one is openly discussing the worst rigging and dealing of independent candidates, nor is the media raising its voice against power sharing. However, the President of Pakistan has shown great courage in saying that further excavation into election results should be halted immediately, but this excavation is continuing in such a way that it is not coming to an end. It is certain that along with the caretaker government, the Election Commission has also failed to fulfill its responsibilities and it’s a matter of shame that praises are being demonstrated for the successful conduct of a controversial election., while most of the political parties are protesting outside their offices and raising their voice against their irresponsible role. Now, the Election Commission has time to rectify its mis-

takes and remove the stains of corruption, otherwise the people will not forget, nor will the affected politicians forgive. Political leaders are already demanding the resignation of the Election Commission, but this demand is not having any effect on the Election Commission nor is it changing its approach, rather it seems to be proceeding with the completion of its agenda. Politicians must recognize that the people have given their representatives the mandate to form a government by exercising their right to vote and political parties should respect the people’s will because Pakistanis do not want any more chaos now, nor do they want to reverse their decision. People want the country’s political and economic conditions to improve so that there will be some change or prosperity emerging in their lives, but this can only happen if power is transferred to those who were elected by the people. The value of public mandate will bring political and economic stability in the country. The writer tweets @AttiyaMunawer

Politicians must recognize that the people have given their representatives the mandate to form a government by exercising their right to vote and political parties should respect the people’s will because Pakistanis do not want any more chaos now, nor do they want to reverse their decision. People want the country’s political and economic conditions to improve so that there will be some change or prosperity emerging in their lives, but this can only happen if power is transferred to those who were elected by the people. The value of public mandate will bring political and economic stability in the country

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I

The writer is a freelance columnist

Striking a balance between safeguarding citizens' basic rights, maintaining social order and ensuring the rights of all involved parties, the judiciary upholds a principled approach in handling cases related to terrorist offences. The holistic appraisal of the white paper reveals China's sincere commitment to a lawful, transparent and rights-focused counter-terrorism framework, showcasing a meticulous fusion of legal precision and human rights protection

Public mandate will bring stability M. A. Niazi

Editor Pakistan Today

ination of baseless rumors aimed at tarnishing China's reputation. Employing a strategy of "double standards," Western powers weaponize the rhetoric of human rights, politicizing legitimate counter-terrorism actions undertaken by other nations. This cynical manoeuvring is particularly pronounced in their treatment of China, where the West seeks to create a false dichotomy between human rights and counter-terrorism and between the rule of law and anti-extremism measures. Such distortions reflect a deliberate attempt to undermine China's ethical stand and cast doubt on its commitment to combating terrorism. China's white paper provides a thorough examination of the legal infrastructure, operational dynamics, and oversight mechanisms governing the handling of terrorist activities. Emphasizing the legal underpinnings, the document also outlines the achievements attained through law-abiding counterterrorism efforts, aiming to shed light on the nation's commitment to lawful practices. Delving into the legal framework's evolution, the white paper elucidates the explicit provisions for identifying and penalizing terrorist activities. It underscores the protection of individual rights during counter-terrorism operations, highlighting China's accomplishments in this domain. Beyond legal structuring, the paper underscores China's keenness to rigorous, impartial and procedurally sound law enforcement, ensuring justice administration and robust human rights protection. The delineation of responsibilities for law enforcement and the judiciary in handling terrorism-related cases reflects a commitment to statutory authority and effective law enforcement. Striking a balance between safeguarding citizens' basic rights, maintaining social order and ensuring the rights of all involved parties, the judiciary upholds a principled approach in handling cases related to terrorist offences. The holistic appraisal of the white paper reveals China's sincere commitment to a lawful, transparent and rights-focused counter-terrorism framework, showcasing a meticulous fusion of legal precision and human rights protection.

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

PAKISTAN has a growing population and a shortage of houses. The Government does not have the funds or capacity to build so many houses, while the private sector or armed forces sector has not been able to build quickly or reduce the cost of housing over the past many years. During World War 2, the USA faced a shortage of 3.5 Million homes and faced a similar situation. Their Government during President Truman’s time addressed the problem in a low-cost way that got them great results. Pakistan can copy that action to help increase housing in Pakistan as well. President Truman’s Government passed a law that fixed the highest rent of a property at £80 per month, which is equivalent to £1000 in today’s terms. They also fixed the highest price of new homes at £10,000 or £134,000 in today’s terms. Because it became a crime to buy or rent homes at higher pric es than set by the Government, the private sector could not sell expensive houses and had to rely on selling a higher number of houses to make a profit. Peo ple started constructing cheap, affordable, and similar hous es, helping reduce construction costs. While people and compa nies also stopped investing in properties and instead invest ed in businesses, helping create many jobs and economic activi ties for the country. If Pakistan creates a database of all properties, fix the prices of the properties to an average, also fix the price of all new properties that will be developed, stop yearly increases in the value of owned property, fix the price of rents, and allow citizens to access the database to see the actual set price of each property. Then Pakistan will see a reduction in property scams, an increase in affordable housing, an end to family disputes on property, while wealth invested in property will be moved into sectors that create economic opportunities. Many evils and unnecessary work will disappear from Pakistan. SHAHRYAR KHAN BASEER ISLAMABAD.

Academic pressure impact

My aim is to draw attention to an issue that is very important to our kids’ welfare: the excessive pressure parents put on them to do well in school. In a time where grades are frequently used to determine success, a lot of parents unintentionally put a lot of pressure on their kids to perform well academically. The relentless chase of excellent grades may have negative impacts on a child’s mental and emotional health. Constantly feeling that you have to perform above and above can lead to tension, worry, and even negative self-esteem. Children may give up their passion and originality in an effort to live up to parental expectations, giving in to the limited pursuit of grades rather than comprehensive per sonal development. Additionally, the parent-child bond may be strained as a result of this pressure. Children may unintentionally create a communication-blocking atmosphere because of their well-meaning desire to succeed academically. This is because they may feel unable to communicate their challenges or fear disappointing their parents. Parents must understand that every child has special abilities and skills. An excessive focus on academic success alone may restrict a child’s potential in other spheres of life. A child’s overall development can be enhanced by promoting a balanced approach that fosters a variety of interests, thereby building resilience and a positive sense of self. Parents must approach their children’s education from a balanced perspective, even though academic success is unquestionably important. By understanding and supporting the individual needs and aspirations of their children, parents can contribute to the cultivation of well-rounded, confident individuals who are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life. HAFSA ALI ISLAMABAD

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

Demystifying the impact of Afghan refugees Saturday, 17 February, 2024

When they go home, the gape made will be big, but can be filled

hamza nasir

HEN forced migration occurs, the challenges faced by host communities in Africa are similar to what might happen in Pakistan, If Afghan refugees are deported. It could create pressure on local resources like housing,Agriculture and healthcare, leading to potential competition for essential services. Economic issues might arise as the host communities deal with increased competition for jobs, affecting local employment rates and public services negatively. Social tensions could emerge due to cultural differences and disparities in access to resources. The strain on infrastructure and environmental concerns may intensify, making these challenges even more complicated. Effectively addressing these consequences would require a united global effort, focusing on improving local infrastructure, creating economic opportunities, and fostering social integration, taking into consideration the potential impact on the Pakistani economy and the overall conditions in Pakistan. The deportation of refugees by Pakistan not only exacerbates existing tensions between the neighbouring nations, Pakistan and Afghanistan, but also emphasizes the shared challenges in managing migration flows and addressing displaced populations. This move has the potential to further strain diplomatic relations, heightening a sense of insecurity and instability in the region. Importantly, it introduces implications for Afghan transit trade, injecting an economic dimension into the consequences. The situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts and dialogue between Pak-

istan and Afghanistan to find sustainable solutions for the refugee issue. It becomes crucial to consider both the broader geopolitical context and the humanitarian aspects of forced migration, all while taking into account the potential impact on economic ties, The recent departure of Afghan immigrants from Pakistan, especially in Balochistan, has sparked widespread speculation about its economic effects. The interaction between the job market, GDP, unemployment rates, and healthcare is set to undergo significant changes. Examining these potential effects reveals a situation where challenges and opportunities coexist. In the job market and unemployment arena, thus the exit of Afghan immigrants is expected to have both immediate and long-term impacts on Balochistan. Initially, there may be a drop in demand for low-skilled labour, particularly in sectors that heavily relied on Afghan workers, leading to local unemployment. However, the resulting gap in the job market provides an opportunity for the local workforce to step in, potentially leading to a gradual adjustment in the unemployment rate. The exit of Afghan immigrants from Pakistan could impact the agriculture sector significantly. With their departure, there may be a labour shortage during crucial farming periods, potentially causing delays in crop harvesting and affecting yields. This shift may also lead to increased labour costs for farmers, impacting the economic viability of their operations. Additionally, the departure of Afghan immigrants may alter the cultural dynamics in rural areas where they were actively involved in agriculture. To address these challenges, a comprehensive approach is crucial, involving strategies to enhance local labour participation, supportive policies for farmers, and the exploration of technological solutions for increased productivity. Government initiatives and collaboration with stakeholders are vital for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of Pakistan's agriculture sector in the aftermath of the departure of Afghan immigrants. The health sector in Balochistan, Pakistan, relies on revenue from Afghan refugees through healthcare services and pharmaceutical sales. However, as Afghan immigrants depart, there may be a decline in patient numbers and pharmaceutical sales,

impacting revenue for consultations and medical procedures. This shift may affect hospitals, clinics, and healthcare businesses, necessitating adjustments in revenue patterns. Healthcare providers might experience changes in income levels, and government funding for health services could be adjusted. Adapting strategies such as focusing on local healthcare needs, exploring alternative revenue streams, and collaborating with authorities, is crucial for sustaining the health sector. Engaging in public health initiatives can effectively serve the remaining population while maintaining a balance between financial considerations and quality healthcare provision. The departure of Afghan immigrants from Pakistan can have multifaceted impacts on the GDP and economy. It may lead to shifts in the labour market, changes in economic contributions, and a potential alleviation of pressure on public services. The reduction in remittances and shifts in market dynamics, particularly businesses catering to Afghan preferences, could also occur. Additionally, the influence on security, stability, and diplomatic relations can play pivotal roles. The overall economic effects are nuanced, involving both positive and negative aspects, necessitating adaptive policies and international cooperation to navigate the consequences effectively. Concerning business , will have an impact on the local consumer market and businesses. There might be changes in what customers prefer, prompting businesses to adjust. Those specifically serving the Afghan community may see a drop in customers, affecting retail and hospitality. Supply chains tied to Afghan consumers may need to be tweaked. Anticipated shifts in the labour force, potential decreases in economic contributions, and impacts on small businesses and entrepreneurship are likely. The departure could also lessen diversity in business practices, affecting innovation. The extent of these effects depends on the size of the Afghan population and how well they were integrated into local markets. Businesses will need to adapt to these changing demographics and explore new market segments to ensure ongoing growth. The departure of Afghan Immigrants could disrupt trade. It may lead to a shortage of skilled and unskilled workers in transportation and logistics, affecting the effi-

ciency of trade operations. Cross-border relationships crucial for trade facilitation may be disrupted, causing delays. Loss of Afghan immigrants' cultural and linguistic understanding could impact communication between Pakistani and Afghan counterparts. The economic impact includes a potential reduction in local economic activity due to the departure of contributors to the transit trade. Security dynamics along transit routes may change, necessitating adjustments, and there may be policy changes affecting border crossings. Infrastructure development and geopolitical factors, linked to larger shifts, will also play a role in shaping the impact. Successful adaptation will depend on the flexibility of existing systems and international cooperation. Addressing the departure of Afghan immigrants from Balochistan necessitates a comprehensive approach that acknowledges both challenges and opportunities. In the short term, there's a need for swift adjustments to accommodate the changes in pop-

Are the Chinese the new barbarians, intent on triggering the fall of the West? Or is China risking internal failure?

GLOBALIST John WEst

HE geopolitical dominance and future of the “West” seem threatened. Hard rightwing commentators like Steve Bannon and Nigel Farage draw parallels with the fall of ancient Rome. In that view, a decadent and effete West, like Rome at the time, is threatened by new forces of chaos, new “barbarians,” in the form of waves of refugees and migrants, especially Muslim migrants. DROP THE RACE-BAITING SENSATIONALISM Such race-baiting sensationalism aside, what is true is that imperial systems like ancient Rome, though longlasting, can foster geopolitical and geoeconomic competition for themselves. This competition can rise either due to the way the imperial power operates – or rather fails to operate in order to fend off challenges to its status. Alternatively, in the more benign view, this competition can come about due to the economic and political development of neighboring regions thanks to the web of global interconnections (the “rising tide” argument). COMPETITION CAN HELP TO STAY SHARP As for the Roman case of old, along the empire’s European (i.e., northern) frontiers, vast numbers of

dynamic Asian economies) has not been the modern-day counterpart of Rome’s Barbarians. For long periods during recent centuries, China was the sick man of Asia. The spectacular rise of China is only something which has occurred over the past few decades. And all the signs are that the Chinese miracle could be fizzling out. Looking ahead, the Chinese economy may stay large, meaning that it will remain a political power. But the greatest threat from China may come from instability generated by internal weaknesses, rather than its great power. So, it is difficult to see China as a modern-day version of Rome’s threatening Barbarians. IS THE WEST WEAK? Today, the West is not weak by any means. Although the West has been declining in relative terms, it is still growing in absolute terms. And countries like India, Indonesia and Vietnam are seeking partnerships with the West in response to an assertive China. MAKE THE WEST GREAT AGAIN? The key challenge for the West is to adapt to the new reality that it no longer dominates the world. The mission ahead is definitely not, in Trump-like fashion, to try to make itself great again. The West remains a very important player in a reordered world where non-Western economies play a more important role. They must be partners in addressing global challenges like climate change and pandemics. THE INDISPENSABLE WEST But the contribution of the United States and, to lesser extent

Europe, to the extraordinarily complex conflicts underway in Ukraine and Gaza demonstrate that Western geopolitical leadership remains indispensable. Perhaps the greatest challenge the West faces is reviving self-confidence and self-belief in its system of democratic capitalism which offers citizens and countries the best prospects for peace and prosperity. NEEDED: SMART LEADERSHIP, NOT VULGAR POPULISM This requires smart leadership, not vulgar populism, to tackle seriously the many challenges we face like ageing populations, weak productivity growth, inequality and excessive public debt. It also requires a willingness to invest more seriously in national defense, something which Japan, Australia, Germany and other Western countries are now doing. And the West must not be perceived to have lost either the Ukraine or Gaza campaigns when they come to an end. It will also be critical to better manage migration and promote a better understanding of the critical contribution of these “modern day Barbarians.” In my home country, Australia, the health, aged care, technology, education, agricultural and many other sectors would collapse without immigrants – something which is also the case in other Western countries that I visit. The fall of Rome, provoked by unruly Barbarians, is not in any way a meaningful analogy for a possible fall of the West, despite what some populists might say. John West is executive director of the Asian Century Institute.

TikTok traffickers must be stopped

Raising awareness, harsher punishment for criminals necessary DAILY STAR Editorial

T is deeply concerning to know the extent to which criminals are able to exploit social media platforms to upend the lives of vulnerable people. On Tuesday, this daily reported the story of two underage girls who were preyed upon by a transnational gang that trafficked at least 100 girls to India over a single year. The girls in question, like most such victims, were targeted through TikTok by the traffickers, who convinced them to leave behind their homes and families in pursuit of success as content creators. They did, but then fell into the traps of the syndicate that may have already transferred

them to India. Now, they could be victims of anything from forced prostitution to organ harvesting. There are several factors behind the rise in TikTok trafficking of late. There is the lack of awareness among the poor, particularly young people, who may be adept at using smartphones and the Internet but are unable to identify the pitfalls, such as lucrative job/career-building opportunities offered by traffickers. Equally troubling is the authorities' response to deter these criminals. Take, for instance, the 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report by the US State Department that found that while the courts and tribunals in Bangladesh had convicted 94 traffickers in 35 cases during the reporting period, only 33 traffickers received prison terms, while 61 were simply

fined. Such punishments appear lenient for criminals luring vulnerable people out of their homes with false promises and putting them at fatal risks. In one of the cases, a Bangladeshi girl named Tumpa Akter was killed in India's Gujarat after being taken there by traffickers who had targeted her through TikTok. We need a multi-dimensional response to address this threat, including organising awareness campaigns, especially in rural areas, to educate individuals to navigate the traps of the cyberspace. It is also important that there is proper trial, prompt conviction and punishment matching the crimes of traffickers, which may deter prospective criminals. Also, strengthening security at our border with India is essential to stop trafficking gangs from operating there.

This writer is a graduate of Economics and librarian at BTTN, Quetta. He can be reached at hamzan039@gmail.com

By embracing adaptability and cooperative strategies, Balochistan can turn this period of change into an opportunity for resilience and prosperity, ensuring a sustainable and positive future for the province and its residents

Will the West fall like ancient Rome? prosperous Germanic-speaking tribal units transformed into larger, more formidable confederations. This did shift the power balance between Rome and its neighbors. In addition, Rome’s strategic position was also weakened on its Eastern frontier by the rise of Persia as a peer superpower in the third century. “THE WEST” – A NEWISH PHENOMENON But comparisons between ancient Rome and today’s West don’t stand, even if Western-propelled globalization has driven the rise of China and other Asian countries. It is plain wrong to suggest that the West is an empire comparable to ancient Rome. It may appear that the West has dominated the world for some 300 years. The reality is that the West has only been a coherent political entity since the end of the Second World War. Over the past few centuries, several Western countries headed up their own empires, rather than being part of a Western empire. They competed among each other with other Western countries in the quest for empire. NOT UNIFIED, BUT OFTEN AT EACH OTHER’S THROATS Furthermore, for much of this period, the West was at war with itself. It was only after the United States imposed peace on Germany and Japan after 1945 that meaningful Western institutions like NATO and the European Union were constructed. Even today, Europe struggles to maintain its unity on many issues, with Brexit – and other nations like Hungary striving in that same direction – being a sad example of European disunity. CHINA = BARBARIANS? Moreover, China (and other

ulation dynamics, ensuring that essential services, housing, and employment opportunities are available for both departing and remaining residents. Simultaneously, long-term strategic planning should focus on leveraging the situation to stimulate economic growth and social development. This could involve skill development programs for the local workforce, attracting new investments, and fostering regional collaborations. Collaboration between government bodies, local communities, and relevant stakeholders is paramount to navigate this transitional phase successfully. By embracing adaptability and cooperative strategies, Balochistan can turn this period of change into an opportunity for resilience and prosperity, ensuring a sustainable and positive future for the province and its residents.

Will Egypt sell Alexandria to Turkiye?

AL-QUDS AL-ARABI turan KislaKci

GYPT recently took an important step towards alleviating its financial burdens given the difficulty it is facing due to the foreign exchange crisis. This step is the sale of the Ras El-Hikma area, located approximately 350 kilometres north-west of the capital, Cairo, to the UAE for $22 billion. Now, would Egypt sell Alexandria, which has great historical and cultural significance, to Turkiye, which has been searching for a centre for shipping and supply to Africa for many years? Alexandria, a city founded by Alexander the Great, has embraced many civilisations throughout history. During the era of the Ottoman Empire in particular, strong cultural and historical ties were established with the Turks residing in the city. Therefore, Alexandria’s deep historical and cultural ties with Turkiye suggest that such a sale or lease can be easily achieved. One can say that leasing or selling Alexandria to Turkiye will not only strengthen historical and cultural relations between the two countries but can also provide economic benefits in many areas for both parties. Leasing Alexandria in particular could also contribute to making it Turkiye’s gateway to Africa, through the establishment of a new commercial and logistical centre between the two countries. This would create new trade and economic opportunities that are not only limited to Turkiye and Egypt but extend to other countries in Africa. As an important trade and shipping centre in the Mediterranean region, Alexandria boasts a strategic location with great potential for logistics services and supply chain management. There is no doubt that the combination of Turkiye’s experience and infrastructure in this field and the valuable location of Alexandria can give the region great vitality and recovery on the economic level. Moreover, this cooperation may also be a strategic step for Turkish commercial expansion in Africa, in addition to its contribution to finding a solution to Egypt’s economic problems. At the same time, this cooperation that could be formed through Alexandria, could positively impact diplomatic relations between the two countries. Egypt and Turkiye have established close relations at different stages of history and experienced tensions for many reasons, and therefore, using Alexandria as a “cultural and economic bridge” can contribute to strengthening relations between the two countries by opening a new area of cooperation. If Egypt leases Alexandria to Turkiye, it provides Egypt with an economic escape, and may at the same time lead to strengthening cultural and historical ties. This potential cooperation could make significant contributions to reviving regional trade, creating new job opportunities, and continuing to strengthen relations between the two countries. However, making such an important decision certainly does not depend only on economic considerations, but rather requires deep diplomatic negotiations and a careful review of common interests of both countries. This article first appeared in Arabic in Al-Quds Al-Arabi.

06 NEWS

Saturday, 17 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

ChInA StePS uP ‘whIteLISt’ MeChAnISM for ProPerty SeCtor – MedIA

PROFIT

REUTERS

IVE state-owned Chinese banks have been matched with more than 8,200 residential projects for development loans under the “whitelist” mechanism aimed at injecting liquidity into the crisis-hit sector, government-backed media The Paper reported. The high number of projects already approved for possible support highlights the government’s efforts to free up funding for the debt-riddled industry, although it is unclear how many will secure loans. “The progress for whitelist projects is faster than expected and it looks like regulators have put much higher pressure on banks to lend to developers this time,” said Raymond Cheng, head of China research at CGS International. Under the “project whitelist” mechanism launched on Jan. 26, city governments are recommending to banks residential projects suitable for financial support, and are coordinating with financial institutions to meet projects’ needs. The mechanism is a key plank of

Beijing’s efforts to stabilise the sector’s debt crisis and boost confidence in an industry that accounts for a quarter of China’s GDP. The sixth state bank, Postal Savings Bank of China (1658.HK), has already approved some loans after receiving “whitelist” projects with 5.7 billion yuan ($792.5 million) of financing needs, although it has not given details on the number of projects involved, The Paper reported. Among the other five state-owned

Apple to launch new AI-based code completion tool

THIS TOOL AIMS TO EMULATE FUNCTIONALITY OF MICROSOFT'S COPILOT

PROFIT MONITORING DESK

Apple is set to introduce its new artificial intelligence tool designed to assist in writing software code, potentially as part of its Xcode software within this year, Bloomberg reported. This tool aims to emulate the functionality of Microsoft’s Copilot, offering the capability to automatically complete lines and even blocks of code based on the initial input from developers. Additionally, Apple is reportedly exploring further AI integrations within its product lineup, including the generation of Apple Music playlists and the creation of slide decks for business presentations. A notable enhancement is expected for Apple’s “Spotlight” search feature, which will offer deeper integration with apps, allowing for more precise control over app-specific features. Despite offering Xcode to developers at no cost, Apple maintains a $99 annual fee for app submissions to its app stores. Apple has yet to officially comment on these reports.

banks, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (601398.SS), Agricultural Bank of China (ABC) (601288.SS) and China Construction Bank (601939.SS) had received more than 2,000 applications each. Bank of Communications (601328.SS) had received 1,442 projects as of Feb. 13, while Bank of China (601988.SS) had approved 75 projects involving close to 40 billion yuan as of Monday, after reviewing more than 110 applications. ABC had approved nearly

5 billion yuan in loans for more than 10 projects, most of which did not involve state-owned developers, according to The Paper. CGS International’s Cheng expected the 8,000 projects had total financing needs of 3.2 trillion yuan, one third of which would be new loans. Following the media report the Hang Seng Mainland Properties Index (.HSMPI) gained more than 4% on Friday, with defaulted Shimao Group <0813.HK, KWG Group (1813.HK) and Kaisa Group (1638.HK) jumping more than 10%. A number of distressed developers, including Sunac China (1918.HK), Greenland (600606.SS) and CIFI (0884.HK), said last week local governments had vetted and approved some of their projects for the whitelists. China aims to ramp up financing for residential projects but banks’ reluctance to lend to the sector could be a major obstacle for distressed developers most in need of funds. Developers and analysts have said any such loans can only be used for ensuring the completion of selected projects, and cannot be used to repay debt or help regain financial strength.

Alexei Navalny, Russia’s opposition leader, is dead, authorities say MOSCOW

AGENCIES

Alexei Navalny, Russia’s most famous opposition leader, died on Friday after collapsing and losing consciousness at the penal colony north of the Arctic Circle where he was serving a long jail term, the Russian prison service said. Navalny, 47, rose to prominence more than a decade ago by lampooning President Vladimir Putin and the Russian elite whom he accused of vast corruption, avarice and opulence. The Federal Penitentiary Service of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District said in a statement that Navalny “felt unwell” after a walk at the IK-3 penal colony in Kharp, about 1,900 km (1,200 miles) north east of Moscow. He lost consciousness almost immediately, it said. “All necessary resuscitation measures were carried out, which did not yield positive results. Doctors of the ambulance stated the death of the convict,” the prison service said, adding that causes of death were being established. Putin has been told about Navalny’s death, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Putin, who is running for re-election in a month, was shown on a television clip visiting a factory in

the Urals. Supporters of Navalny said they could not confirm he was dead, but that if he was then they believed he had been killed. “Russian authorities publish a confession that they killed Alexei Navalny in prison,” Navalny aide Leonid Volkov wrote on social media. “We do not have any way to confirm it or to prove this isn’t true. Condemnation quickly poured in from Western governments. “Dreadful news about Alexei Navalny… If the report about his death in Russian prison is true it represents another terrible crime by Putin’s regime,” Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said on X. “The ruthlessness against Navalny shows again why it is

necessary to continue to fight against authoritarianism.” Death in jail Navalny’s lawyer was on his way to the “Polar Wolf” prison in Kharp where Navalny died. Russian state television showed a press conference by the central bank. Russian newspaper editor and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dmitry Muratov told Reuters on Friday the death of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny was “murder”, and said that he believed harsh treatment had led to his demise. “My sincere belief is that it was the conditions of detention that led to Navalny’s death … His sentence was supplemented by murder,” Muratov said, offering condolences to his family.

Britain’s Labour Party deals double blow to PM Sunak’s Conservatives LONDON

AGENCIES

Britain’s Labour dealt a crushing blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives on Friday, winning contests for two new lawmakers in votes that suggested the opposition party was on track to win a national election later this year. The double defeat underlined the flagging fortunes of the governing party and will do little to silence Sunak’s critics, who fear the Conservatives could face an all-but wipe-out at the national election and want him to change course. The 43-year-old former investment banker has struggled to restore his party’s fortunes despite recasting himself at various points over the past year as a bold reformer, a stable technocrat and now as someone who needs more time “to stick to the plan” because, he says, that plan is working. But with the Labour Party ahead in the polls, Sunak might well need to bend to the demands of some in his party to offer an increasingly disaffected electorate a more right-wing conservative agenda before the election. “By winning in these Tory strongholds, we can confidently say that Labour is back in the service of working people and we will work tirelessly to deliver for them,” Labour leader Keir Starmer said in a statement. “The Tories (Conservatives) have failed. Rishi’s recession proves that. That’s why we’ve seen so many former Conservative voters switching directly to this changed Labour Party.” Labour overturned a hefty Conservative majority in the central English town of Wellingborough to win the parliamentary seat with 13,844 votes against 7,408 in what polling expert John Curtice described as the governing party’s “worst ever by-election reverse.” In another threat to Sunak’s party, the candidate for the right-wing Reform Party won 3,919 votes, a sign, Curtice said, it had “now entered the electoral battle in a serious way … that potentially adds to the Conservatives’ difficulties”. In Kingswood, southwestern England, Labour won with 11,176 votes against 8,675 for the Conservative candidate. The Conservatives have only won four out of 21 byelections since the last national election in 2019. While so-called by-elections are often lost by the governing party, the scale of the defeat in two parliamentary seats the Conservatives have held for years piles pressure on Sunak, who became prime minister just over a year ago. The challenge from the Reform Party could also worry some in the governing party. Senior Conservative lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg said at least in Kingswood, if Reform supporters had voted for the governing party as part of the “Conservative family”, the Conservatives would have held the parliamentary seat. It appeared that the Conservatives had all but written off the two by-elections.

Judge rejects Trump’s bid to dismiss Stormy Daniels hush-money case NEW YORK AGENCIES

A New York judge has dismissed Donald Trump’s attempt to throw out the Stormy Daniels hush-money case, scheduling a trial for March 25, Daily Mail reported. The 77-year-old, set to become the first former president to face a criminal trial, is

accused of paying the adult film star $130,000 to conceal their alleged affair before the 2016 election. In a courtroom spectacle, Judge Juan Merchan rejected Trump’s bid to dismiss the case, paving the way for the ex-president to stand trial on charges of paying Stormy Daniels for her silence. Trump, visibly displeased, scowled at the packed courtroom but remained defiant, claiming there was “no case” and criticising New York for prioritising him over issues like violent crimes and migrantrelated incidents. As Trump entered the courthouse, surrounded by law enforcement, he voiced his frustration, alleging interference from his opponents and express-

ing a desire to delay the trial, citing his potential re-election bid. Trump emphasised his love for the city

and state but argued they should focus on pressing issues such as rising violent crime and migrant-related incidents instead of pur-

suing what he deemed as “made-up crimes.” The trial date of March 25 was set amidst objections from Trump’s lawyer, Todd Blanche, who argued it would be a ‘grave injustice’ given the ex-president’s involvement in multiple cases across different jurisdictions. Judge Merchan, unmoved, pressed ahead, coordinating with Judge Tanya Chutkan overseeing the January 6th trial in Washington. Amid extraordinary security measures in and around the courthouse, Trump faces three other criminal trials, including charges of election interference and mishandling classified documents. The hush-money case, with allegations of falsifying business records, centres on a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels and implicates Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen.

Egypt setting up area at Gaza border to shelter Palestinians CAIRO AGENCIES

Egypt is preparing an area at the Gaza border which could accommodate Palestinians in case an Israeli offensive into Rafah prompts an exodus across the frontier, four sources said, in what they described as a contingency move by Cairo. Egypt, which denied making any such preparations, has repeatedly raised the alarm over the possibility that Israel’s devastating Gaza offensive could displace Palestinians into Sinai – something Cairo says would be completely unacceptable- echoing warnings from Arab states such as Jordan. The United States has repeatedly said it would oppose any displacement of Palestinians out of Gaza. One of the sources said Egypt was optimistic talks to clinch a ceasefire can avoid any such scenario, but is establishing the area at the border as a temporary and precautionary measure. Three security sources said Egypt had begun preparing a desert area with some basic facilities which could be used to shelter Palestinians, emphasising this was a contingency step. The sources Reuters spoke to for this story declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter. Israel has said it will mount an offensive to take out Hamas’s “last bastion” in Rafah, where well over 1 million Palestinians have sought sanctuary from its devastating Gaza offensive. Israel has said its army is drawing up a plan to evac-

uate civilians from Rafah to other parts of the Gaza Strip. But U.N. aid chief Martin Griffiths said on Thursday it was an “illusion” to think people in Gaza could evacuate to a safe place and warned of the possibility of Palestinians spilling into Egypt if Israel launches a military operation in Rafah. He called this scenario “a sort of Egyptian nightmare”. Egypt has framed its opposition to the displacement

of Palestinians from Gaza as part of wider Arab rejection of any repeat of the “Nakba”, or “catastrophe”, when some 700,000 Palestinians fled or were forced from their homes in the war surrounding Israel’s creation in 1948. The first source said construction of the camp began three or four days ago and it would offer temporary shelter in any scenario of people crossing the frontier “until a resolution is reached”.

Saturday, 17 February, 2024 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER Engro Fertilizers achieves record urea production in 2023 to ensure food security for Pakistan

PROFIT

NEWS DESK

Engro Fertilizers, Pakistan’s premier seed-to-harvest solutions provider, achieved record urea production of 2.3 million tons in 2023 to support the Government’s efforts of ensuring affordable and abundant supplies for the farmers. The Company was able to achieve this feat and continued to play a pivotal role towards enabling the food security of Pakistan, amidst the headwinds of tough macroeconomic conditions, imposition of a higher super tax and gas price hikes. Engro Fertilizers was additionally affected by steep Rupee devaluation as its 950,000 tons Base Plant is supplied gas under Petroleum Policy 2012 pricing, which is dollarpegged due to its linkage with crude oil rate. PR

HE State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) conducted two Open Market Operations (OMOs) on Friday, to inject over Rs 500 billion into the money market through conventional and Shariah-compliant mechanisms. According to the Domestic Markets and Monetary Management Department, the SBP accepted bids worth Rs 382.8 billion from commercial banks for 7-day and 28-day reverse repo purchase contracts at an interest rate of 22.07% per annum in the conventional OMO. The SBP received 16 bids from commercial banks for the OMO, out of which 10 were accepted. The SBP received five bids worth Rs. 343.05 billion for the 7day contract, out of which three bids worth Rs. 228.05

HBLPSL Season 9 Kicks Oﬀ: Palat Do Khel

Gratitude for Saudi Support: Pakistan praises enhanced Hajj facilities

billion were accepted. The central bank also received 11 bids worth Rs. 200.3 billion for the 28-day contract, out of which seven bids worth Rs. 154.75 billion were accepted. The OMO aimed to ease the tight liquidity condi-

ISLAMABAD PR

LAHORE: The biggest sporting spectacle of the year, HBLPSL, returns for an electrifying season 9, this time with a game-changing theme: “Palat Do Khel”. Kicking off today in Lahore, the tournament matches will be held across four cities – Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. The final will be played on 18 March 2024 at the National Stadium in Karachi. HBL’s commitment to HBLPSL reflects its passion for uplifting Pakistan’s image. “Palat Do Khel” urges Pakistanis to capture the nation's positive spirit and create inspiring content showcasing its true self. Commenting on the HBLPSL Season 9, Ali Habib, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer – HBL, said, "HBLPSL is about enabling dreams, both for players and for our nation's sporting future. This year, with "Palat Do Khel" we aim to capture the true self of our country. Dikhao Pakistan may kuch acha… Palat Do Khel.”. PR

FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan Ltd Announces Financial Results for FY 2023

FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan Limited (FCEPL) announced its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2023. The Company continued its growth trajectory and delivered another record year with the highest-ever top line and operating profit. This was in the face of a challenging macroeconomic environment and intense competition. The Company achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing the PKR 100 billion topline mark with a 36% increase over last year.The Company witnessed a gross profit growth of 18% while gross margin declined by 218 bps due to high inflation, global supply chain disruption, foreign exchange constraints and currency devaluation. However, operating margin declined by 115 bps over last year due to initiatives such as cost rationalization and efficiency building. Profit after tax declined from PKR. 2.5 billion to PKR 1.5 billion in the same period last year due to a significant increase in finance cost, with interest rates almost doubling over the year. Brand health indicators had a positive trajectory, setting the stage for long-term sustainable growth. PR

Mari petroleum company announces gas discovery at its mainwand well located in block - 28, Balochistan province

By the grace of Almighty Allah, Mari Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL) is pleased to announce a gas discovery resulting from its exploratory efforts at Maiwand X-1 St-1 exploration well, drilled in Block 28, in Kohlu District, Balochistan Province. MPCL is the Operator of Block 28 having 95% working interest along with OGDCL as joint venture partner with 5% carried working interest. The said well was spudded on June 12, 2023 and successfully drilled down to 2,516 meters (Measured Depth) on November 12, 2023. Multiple promising zones were tested during Drill Stem Tests. The testing results of selected zones are as under. PR

FCCU hosts groundbreaking seminar on Leadership Role in Quality Assurance

Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) recently hosted a groundbreaking seminar on Leadership Role in Quality Assurance on February 15, 2024. The event, held at FCCU, witnessed an impressive turnout with 100 participants from FCCU and Kinnaird College attending in person, while 155 universities across Pakistan and 10 universities from the UK joined via Zoom, making it a truly international gathering. Dr. Nayer Fardows, Registrar and Director Quality Assurance, skillfully moderated the seminar, ensuring a seamless flow of discussions. The esteemed Chief Guest, Dr. Shahid Munir, Chairperson of Punjab Higher Education Commission, added prestige to the occasion. The event kicked off with a warm welcome from the moderator, Dr. Nayer Fardows, and a video message from Rector FCCU, Dr. Jonathan Addleton, setting the stage for the insightful discussions that followed. PR

SBP INJECTS OVER RS500BN INTO MONEY MARKET THROUGH OMOS NEWS

Pakistani pilgrims are grateful for the cooperation of Saudi authorities in providing the best facilities. This was stated by Minister for Religious Affairs Aniq Ahmed during a meeting at the Saudi Embassy regarding Hajj arrangements. According to details, both leaders discussed various matters to finalize the arrangements for Hajj 2024. Minister for Religious Affairs Aniq Ahmed said that due to the excellent cooperation of Saudi Minister for Hajj Dr. Tawfig Al-Rabiah and the Saudi Ambassador, he has been successful in making intending Pilgrim’s facilities exemplary. Hajj arrangements will be completed on time. In this regard, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Pakistan Hajj Mission are in constant contact

with Saudi authorities. He further said that according to Saudi directives, private Hajj scheme applicants have been provided with further ease. A total of 146 organizing companies have been formed, and their contracts have been awarded by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the booking process for Hajj pilgrims has begun.

The Saudi Ambassador assured full cooperation to private Hajj companies. He further stated that senior Saudi officials will visit Pakistan in the last week of February to finalize the 'Road to Makkah' project from Karachi airport. Private scheme pilgrims will also be included in the Road to Makkah project along with government pilgrims."

Indigenisation and Technological Sovereignty: Key to Pakistan’s Defence Evolution urge CASS Seminar Speakers

ISLAMABAD PR

The Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS), Islamabad, successfully hosted a seminar titled ‘Shifting Battlefields: Impact of Emerging Technologies on the Character of Warfare in South Asia’. This event convened distinguished experts from the defence, technology, and academic sectors to discuss the transformative role of emerging technologies in modern warfare, with a particular focus on South Asia. Air Marshal Farooq Habib (Retd), Senior Director

at CASS, opened the seminar by stressing the complexity and unpredictability of technological evolution in military contexts. He emphasised the necessity for Pakistan’s defence sector to adapt and evolve in response to these advancements to maintain strategic and tactical superiority. Lieutenant General Aamer Riaz (Retd), former President of the National Defense University, in his Keynote Address, underscored the profound influence of technological advancements on the character of warfare. He predicted a technological upheaval, highlighting the need for strategic adaptation to innovations in space, cyber, AI, and more. General Riaz called for a revision of traditional warfare strategies to include emerging technologies that are redefining conflict dynamics. Mr Fawad Zahir, a Defence and Strategic Studies Expert, focused on the importance of airpower, enhanced by big data analysis, quantum computing, and Machine Learning. He urged for robust civilian-military collaboration to harness technological advancements for defence purposes. Mr Zahir also strongly advocated strategic investment in technologies that align with Pakistan’s core defence needs, given the country’s budgetary constraints.

Power suspension schedules for 17th & 18th february 2024 ISLAMABAD PR

According to Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO)s spokesman, System Maintenance/Development Work is in process. Therefore power supply of below mentioned feeders/areas will be temporary suspended as per given schedule: On 17th February 2024, From 09:00 AM to 02:00 PM, Islamabad Circle, Imran Khan, CDA Flats, PHA Flats, Burma, Khanna Dack, Wahidabad, UC Road, Medina

Market, G-9 Markaz, H -8, I10/1, Muhammad Hussain,Old United,Old Exchange,Golra.II, D12/2, Bhara Kaho, Bhara Kaho.II, Pindi Point, Dhalla, TDCP, PAF, Bari Imam, Lohi Bhir Feeders, Rawalpindi City Circle, Muzmal Town, Noora Road, Muslim Town, Gulzar Quaid, Zafarul Haq, Committee Chowk, Fawara Chowk, Jami Masjid, Gwalmandi, Industrial Ahsanabad, Abu Bakar, Tench Bhata, Misrial Road, Kamalabad, Golra, Zircon Heights, QIH, Chakra, Lakho Road, CDL Colony, Nust Road, MH-I, II & III, Zeeshan

Colony, Kamalabad, Misrial Road Feeders, Rawalpindi Cantt Circle, Sukhu, Nishan Haider, Haider Road, Sprint Plaza, Dhok Farman Ali, Bustan Khan Road, Swan Garden.II, Mohra Nagyal, FF Hospital, Wilayat Complex, Gulistan Colony, Morgah, Lair Colony, AOWHS, Major Riaz, Dhok Noor, Dhamyal, Garja.I, RA-Bazar, Chakri, APF, Kahota City.I, Khawaja, Ghazin Khan, New Chawah, Fazal Ahmed, Chowk Pandori, Gumti, Kaliam, Gagan, RCCI-I, II, III, IV&V, Sprint Mall, Lalah Zar, Jhowra, Islamabad Feed Mill.

Customs uncovers Rs 27.5bn systematic tax evasion g

LEGAL ACTION INITIATED AGAINST ROUGHLY 1,268 IMPORTERS FOR TAX EVASION BETWEEN 2014 AND 2022 PROFIT

NEWS DESK

The Directorate Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) South has detected a significant tax evasion operation, uncovering fraudulent activities by importers exploiting the export promotion scheme under SRO 492, resulting in a loss of Rs 27.5 billion to the national exchequer. The investigation identified approximately 1,268 importers who, from 2014 to 2022, claimed duty and tax exemptions on imports valued at Rs 27.5 billion but failed to meet the re-export requirements stipulated by SRO 492, thereby evading taxes. SRO 492 provides a tax waiver for importers on the condition that the imported goods are re-exported within 18 months. However, PCA South’s audit found that this condition was not adhered to, leading to significant revenue loss for the customs department. The audit revealed that out of the total implicated

importers, 764 are under PCA South’s jurisdiction, 645 fall under PCA Central, and 164 are overseen by PCA North, indicating a widespread abuse of the scheme across Pakistan. In response to these findings, PCA South has referred the cases for legal action, including the encashment of security deposits made by the importers at the time of filing for imports. Efforts led by DG PCA Chaudary Zulfiqar and PCA South Director Sheeraz Ahmed are underway to conclude proceedings swiftly, aiming to penalize the fraudulent importers and recover the unpaid taxes. Tax experts have lauded the actions taken by PCA South, emphasizing the importance of compliance with customs regulations. They also called for policy reforms to address vulnerabilities in export schemes that allow for such extensive fraud, highlighting the need for measures that prevent financial losses to the country’s economy.

tions in the money market, as the interbank overnight rate had risen to 22.5% on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Shariah Compliant Mudarabah-based OMO The SBP also conducted a Shariah Compliant Mudarabah based OMO, injecting Rs 121 billion into the money market for various tenors. The OMO received five quotes for 07-day and 28day tenors, with a total amount offered of Rs 121 billion. The SBP accepted all the quotes at the cut-off rates of 22.08% and 22.07% for 07-day and 28-day tenors, respectively. The OMO is part of the SBP’s efforts to provide liquidity to the Islamic banking industry and promote the development of the Shariah-compliant money market. The SBP has been conducting regular OMOs since 2018, using government-issued Islamic bonds (sukuk) as collateral.

Celebrating Power of Words, Wisdom, and Ideas at 15th Edition of Karachi Literature Festival

KARACHI: Oxford University Press Pakistan (OUPP) inaugurated the 15th Karachi Literature Festival (KLF), highlighting ‘Sustainability’ and the power of words to ‘Change the Mindsets,’ at a local hotel. KLF, as always, is set to be a vibrant celebration of fresh ideas, creative perspectives, and the art of storytelling. Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director, OUP Pakistan during his welcome speech said, “To see the change, we need to change, and good literature has the remarkable ability to instigate that change, as it challenges our preconceptions, and inspires action. Through this year’s theme of sustainability, we aim to explore how words can catalyze mindset shifts, promote environmental stewardship, and drive towards a more sustainable and equitable future.”PR

Islamabad Capital Police ICT15 application introduced for IOS users; to ensure safety of citizens

According to details, following the special directions of the Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO), Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan, the Islamabad Capital Police ICT-15 mobile application has been introduced for IOS users, to ensure the safety of citizens, a public relations officer said. He said that the purpose of this mobile app is to enable citizens to inform the police without any hassle or time delay and ensure immediate police assistance. Through this mobile app, citizens can promptly notify the police of any incidents or emergencies by sending audio messages or images. Moreover, to utilize this service the citizens. PR

Zong 4G collaborates with Batik to streamline brand’s communication processes and amplify its customer base

ISLAMABAD: Zong 4G and Batik have signed a formal agreement encompassing GSM Connectivity, Attendance Management Solutions, and Push to Talk devices for their dispersed workforce stationed throughout Pakistan Batik Clothing is a renowned Pakistani clothing brand with a presence in seven major cities of Pakistan. The brand currently has over 14 outlets in Pakistan and is considered one of the most reputable clothing brands in Pakistan. Zong 4G, Pakistan’s largest telecom service provider has collaborated with the esteemed clothing brand Batik to provide cutting-edge digital solutions to boost the brand’s performance and expand their customer base. PR

PCB joins hands with TikTok for HBL PSL 9

KARACHI: TikTok and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have announced a collaboration for HBL PSL 9, providing fans the opportunity to experience the excitement of the country's most loved sporting event like never before. The collaboration heralds a new era of engaging content for cricket enthusiasts. Throughout the duration of HBL PSL 9, TikTok will play a pivotal role in delivering behind-the-scenes moments, player interviews, post-match analysis and much more directly to fans worldwide. The HBL PSL account on TikTok @thepsl, has close to 2 million followers while there have been more than 2.47 million published content, using the popular hashtag #HoJaJazbaati in the last two seasons. The official hashtag for this season is #KhulKeKhel. PR

CARETAKER SETUP INITIATED MAJOR STEPS TO ENSURE ECONOMIC STABILITY: PM NEWS

ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Friday said that the caretaker government had resolved major long-standing issues in a short span to steer the country towards economic stability. He said the caretaker setup also provided all possible facilities on priority to the international investors and business community to attract maximum foreign direct investment in the country. He emphasized that the caretaker government was committed to continue its efforts to resolve the problems facing the country’s economy till its last day of working. Chairing a meeting to review various issues of Karachi Electric (KE), the prime

minister said that the government was striving to solve the remaining problems as soon as possible to remove all obstacles in the way of uninterrupted supply of

Omar Ayub claims of PTI MNA-elect Aslam Ghumman’s abduction LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) leader Omar Ayub claimed that newly-elected Member of National Assembly (MNA), Brigadier retired Aslam Ghumman, has been kidnapped by some unknown people. According to the details, Omar stated that Aslam abducted from Sialkot. Someone was forcing Aslam to leave PTI and join Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). PTI’s leader strongly condemned on Aslam’s kidnapping and rigging in general elections results. He demanded that this needs to be end now. He raised the question that how much longer would it take to consider that a person can have his own likings and disliking towards a party.

PTI, JI in talks to form government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) once again came closer to form the government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and centre. PTI’s senior leader Sardar Latif Khosa has talked to JI’s deputy emir Liaqat Baloch to discuss the ongoing political situation. Earlier, PTI was interested to form government in KP with the support of JI but the later wanted to expand the power-sharing formula to the centre. Speaking to Liaqat Baloch via telephone, Khosa said that he will again reach to the JI leadership after meeting the PTI founder today. The deputy emir of JI said that the doors of dialogue are always open between the political parties. Meanwhile, a delegation of PTI wanted to visit the JI leadership in order to seek their support for forming government in KP. PTI leader Amir Dogar has made a contact with JI’s spokesperson in this regard. “We’ll let them know the time and venue of the meeting after discussing the matter with the top leadership,” JI’s spokesperson Qaiser Sharif said.

Govt not to allow PTI hold protest today as Section 144 imposed in federal capital ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

electricity to the residents of Karachi. The prime minister directed to find out solutions on priority to issues faced by the Karachi-Electric. The Karachi-

Electric delegation thanked the prime minister and his team for resolving its long-standing issues. The prime minister also hailed the signing of the interconnection agreement between National Transmission and Distribution Company (NTDC) and Karachi Electric (K.E) held the other day. The CEO of Karachi-Electric paid tribute to the caretaker PM and the government officials for solving the problems faced by the company on the priority basis. The prime minister directed that NEPRA and Karachi Electric should jointly find a solution to these problems and submit a report in this regard as soon as possible. Caretaker Minister for Energy Muhammad Ali, Chief Executive Officer of K.E and concerned high officials participated in the meeting.

Science ministry dept faces allegations of ‘dubious financial management’ g

PSQCA INVESTS RS 7.5BN IN TDRS AT ONE BRANCH ‘WITHOUT FULFILLING CODAL FORMALITIES’ PROFIT

GHULAM ABBAS

It is a known fact that public money in Pakistan does not get the due respect. Whether it is in the form of corruption or untargeted subsidies, the taxpayer’s money finds benefitting a select few. Most recently one such instance of mishandling of public funds was seen in action at the Ministry of Science and Technology. Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), an entity within the ministry, found itself facing scrutiny following an abrupt decision to invest over Rs 7.5 billion in Term Deposit Receipts (TDRs) at a solitary branch of a commercial bank without fulfilling codal formalities. This move raised eyebrows and has triggered internal discord over the rationale behind the hasty decision-making process. According to documents concerning the matter, a substantial investment in a specific branch of a commercial bank at Karachi was sanctioned after the approval of the Board of Directors (BoD) of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), an affiliated body of the Ministry of Science and Technology. It is important to note that the federal government highly regulates the investment of such a huge amount in commercial banks. In this regard the Federal Government has promulgated the Public Finance Management Act, 2019. According to the provisions of this act, public and even autonomous bodies are prohibited from any kind of short- or longterm investment or deposit into

bank accounts. Such unspent balances should be part of the consolidated fund. This Act is featured by an overriding effect i.e. any law contradicting this act is superseded. “No authority shall transfer public money for investment or deposit from government account 1[including the assignment accounts] to other bank account without prior approval from the Federal Government, ” the Act says. Earlier instances of fund transfers by PSQCA also drew attention, including the withdrawal of Rs 1000 million from the Main Revenue Account at NBP Sindh High Court Building Branch Karachi for investment in TDRs at the same branch, raising concerns about a pattern of dubious financial decisions. Notably, the reinvestment process itself was also not fair. No competitive rates for the investments were not obtained from other commercial banks through advertisement/ open competitive bidding. Such is the set protocol for public interest and was followed before 2019. Insiders alleged that initially, the funds were distributed across various NBP branches in Karachi, with a more prudent approach being to reinvest the matured amount in the same branches with updated interest rates. However, the ministry opted to transfer the entire sum to a branch near the Sindh High Court, raising suspicions of preferential treatment. An insider suggested that Mr. Khalid Ahmed Bablani, Director Finance, PSQCA, might have sought to favor a connection within the designated branch by depositing this substantial

amount. Moreover, allegations have surfaced within the ministry regarding potential undisclosed benefits or kickbacks worth millions of Rupees offered by the bank officials, hinting at clandestine dealings. Manager of the said bank, when contacted for comments, did not answer the phone despite repeated attempts. Furthermore, Detailed audit of PSQCA has also made certain observations regarding investment during 2021-22 and 202223, which reflect that unfair investment is a systemic issue in PSQCA’s financial governance. Audit authorities repeatedly suggested corrective action to ensure compliance with legal standards. When approached for comment, acting Director General PSQCA Ismat Gul asserted that the investment in the single branch underwent due deliberation, with two board meetings addressing the matter. However, sources within the ministry contest this claim and differ, claiming that the meetings were hastily conducted online without fulfilling legal requirements. The Chief Finance Officer of the ministry, Shahzad Iqbal Rana is also said to be a party to the hasty decisions, which may invite audit paras and cases at NAB and FIA. The Ministry of Science and Technology is now facing demands for a comprehensive investigation into the decision-making process and the potential ramifications of this significant investment besides fixing responsibility for such irregularities and favor at the cost of public exchequer.

Bushra Bibi’s sister makes shocking allegations ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Police of the federal capital says no illegal gathering will be allowed in Islamabad in view of Section 144, which is in force in the federal capital. In a statement, a Spokesperson of the Islamabad Police said peaceful protest is the fundamental right of everyone, but any illegal act will not be allowed. He said legal action will be taken against those who would resort to violence. Several political parties decided to protest against the alleged rigging in the recently held elections. It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan’s election last week did not return a clear majority for anyone but independent candidates backed by jailed former prime minister won 92 out of 264 seats, making them the largest group. Uncertainty looms over Pakistan’s political future as none of the major political parties – PML-N, PPP or the PTI-backed independent candidates – secured a simple majority in the National Assembly in the February 8 general elections.

Former first lady and wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Bushra Bibi has been unwell for the last six days after eating food provided at Adiala jail, her sister Maryam Riaz Wattoo claimed. Speaking to a private Tv news channel, Maryam Riaz Wattoo claimed that Bushra Bibi could not eat anything for the last six days. “My sister’s condition is still unwell. She is in pain and has not been able to eat anything for the past six days,” the sister of the former first lady said. She accused that Bushra Bibi was ‘given’ harmful food at Adiala jail, adding that home food is not allowed for the former first lady. Maryam Riaz Wattoo demanded from the concerned authorities to investigate the matter. “We fear that the Bushra Bibi is given some harmful food and it is authorities’ responsibility to bring the perpetrators to book,” she added

Maryam Riaz Wattoo said that her sister can never turn against the PTI founder. “She is with Khan Sahib and she will be with Khan Sahib forever,” the sister of the former first lady said. She said that after the incident, Bushra Bibi was in danger at Adiala jail. It is pertinent to mention here that the former first lady Bibi is serving her imprisonment at Adiala jail in Toshakhana and ‘un-Islamic’ Nikkah cases.

Saturday, 17 February, 2024

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR SUNRISE

ZUHR

ASR MAGHRIB ISHA

6:00

1:30

4:30

New Economic Zones to be established in newly merged tribal districts; KP govt

6:45

5:55

7:30

MINISTER OF INDUSTRIES DIRECTS INITIATION OF NECESSARY PROCESSES AT KURRAM AND SOUTH WAZIRISTAN PROFIT

AZIZ BUNERI

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Minister for Industries, Commerce, Technical Education and Newly Merged Districts Affairs, Dr. Aamer Abdullah has directed the establishment of economic zones at tribal districts Kurram and South Waziristan. He asked for prompt initiation of work on all necessary processes in this regard. He issued these directives while presiding over a meeting regarding the establishment of economic zones in the newly merged districts of the province, at the Civil Secretariat in Peshawar. Besides, Special Secretary Industries and Commerce, Mohammad Anwar Khan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company (KPEZDMC), Javed Iqbal Khattak and Manager Business Facilitation Centre (Board of Investment & Trade), Iqbal Sarwar, representatives of HA Consultant and other concerned authorities attended the meeting. The meeting reviewed different aspects of the selected suitable sites for the establishment of economic zones. The participants of the meeting were given a meticulous briefing on the feasibilities prepared by the consultants for establishment of new economic zones in the newly merged districts and shared sketches, possibilities and utilities of the establishment of new zones. Keeping in view various priorities, the meeting agreed on establishment of two zones on two districts and decided that new zones should be established at such areas where there is no industrial estate of the Small Industries Development Board (SIDB) or no economic zone of the economic zones development company, to provide maximum benefits to the local population of the area.

People’s decision to be implemented by summoning NA session soon: Solangi ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Caretaker Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Friday said that the decision made by the people in general elections would be implemented by summoning the first session of new National Assembly (NA). “We will implement the verdict given by the people of Pakistan and the NA session will be convened as soon as the Election Commission of Pakistan forwards the official results to the Assembly’s Secretariat,” he said while addressing the launching ceremony of the newsletter of the Pakistan Television (PTV). He said it was a commendable initiative of the PTV to issue a newsletter that would eventually promote reading and writing habits among the youth. The minister recalled that he started his professional journey with print reporting as part of the launch team of The News that carried his first by-line news story on February 11, 1991. He said modern trends in journalism had not only created opportunities but also big challenges especially those that were related to voice cloning, deep fake and Artificial Intelligence. Solangi underlined the need for the PTV to align itself with the modern technologies for its progress as well as addressing the challenges associated with such technologies. In addition to live broadcast, the PTV would have to create quality products in the digital landscape, he added. In last six months of the caretaker government, he said, the PTV did unbiased reporting and gave due coverage to all the political parties across the board. He said the PTV’s mandate would not have any affect with the formation of the government since the prime objective of the national broadcaster was to report on the civic issues including economy and culture. Lauding the national television on promoting the diverse culture and regional languages, he urged the PTV to continue its journey with the same spirit. He also highlighted the initiatives taken by the PTV during the tenure of caretaker government, including round-the-clock broadcast at the PTV Center Multan as well as launch of the PTV Bolan programmes in Hazargi language. He expressed the hope that the new government would further upgrade the PTV by introducing modern technologies. He congratulated the PTV management on successful launch of its newsletter.

Imran Khan challenges his convictions in cypher, Toshakhana, Iddat cases ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

PTI founder chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan has challenged his convictions in cipher, Toshakhana and Iddat cases in Islamabad High Court (IHC) and sessions court on Friday. Appeals against conviction in cypher and Toshakhana cases was filed in the IHC and against conviction in Iddat case was submitted in the sessions court. PTI senior counsel Sardar Latif Khosa confirmed to journalists outside the IHC that the appeals against convictions have been filed. Earlier, there were reports that another PTI counsel Salman Safdar had drafted appeals against the convictions awarded in the cypher, Toshakhana and Iddat cases before

2024 general elections. On January 30, Imran Khan and his close aide, former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, had been sentenced to 10 years in jail in cipher case related to the leaking of state secrets. The special court set up at a prison in Rawalpindi had announced the sentence in the cypher case, which pertained to a diplomatic cable that Imran Khan claimed proved his allegation that his removal from power in 2022 was a US conspiracy. On January 31, an anti-graft court had jailed Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Khan for 14 years each on charges of illegally selling state gifts. The sentence in the Toshakhana case also included a 10-year disqualification from holding public office. Bushra Khan, commonly known as

Bushra Bibi, had, however, been allowed by authorities to serve her sentence at Imran Khan’s Islamabad hilltop mansion at Banigala. Later, Bushra Bibi had moved the court to allow her to undergo her sentence in prison and not at Banigala residence, which the authorities turned into a sub-jail. The third conviction in merely one week came in Iddat case. On February 3, a court in Islamabad had sentenced the PTI leader and his spouse Bushra Bibi to seven years in jail, along with a Rs0.5 million fine each, for “contracting marriage during the ‘Iddat’ (period of waiting)” of the former first lady. The judge set aside the ‘nikah’ of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi solemnised on January 1, 2018, as he announced the sentence under Section 496 of the Pakistan Penal Code. According to the court, the ‘nikah’

was solemnised during the “mandatory Iddat

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

period” of Bushra Bibi.