Epaper_24-03-16 KHI

G o v t s l a s h e s d i e s e l

i c e

Dar to contest technocrat seat reser ved for Islamabad

NA extends ‘lifespan’ of seven ordinances to 120 days amid r uckus

The

from the speaker Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan lambasted the government particularly highlighting concerns regarding an ordinance related to privatisation alleging a lack of transparency and consultation even among ruling party members Even PMLN members do not know what they are passing,” he remarked Ayub emphasised the contentious nature of privatising state-owned entities reflecting broader concerns within the political spectrum

However, amidst the internal discord, a rare moment of unity emerged when the House collectively condemned Israeli oppression of Palestinians Initially there was confusion among some members but after clarification from the speaker unanimous support was garnered for the resolution condemning Zionist actions against Palestinians

NA passes resolution condemning Israeli war on Palestinians

FO

rejects repor ts of IAEA delegation’s visit to Pakistan

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch on Friday rejected news circulating on the media regarding the visit of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) delegation to Pakistan The statement comes a day after notable figures within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) US chapter alongside numerous users whose online activity indicated support for the party, shared a video excerpt sourced from an Indian news broadcast by Zee News The segment featured a meeting between IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif “Stories regarding the visit of a high-level IAEA delegation to Pakistan are fake news Baloch said in a post shared on X Stories regarding the visit of a high-level IAEA delegation to Pakistan are fake news! No IAEA official is currently visiting Pakistan; Nor are any policy talks planned in near future with IAEA DG IAEA visited Pakistan in Feb 2023 We had briefed the media on the occasion She said that no IAEA official is currently visiting Pakistan nor are any policy talks planned in the near future with the UN body “We had briefed the media on the occasion ” she concluded During the meeting between PM Shehbaz and Grossi in February 2023, PM Shehbaz stressed greater collaboration with IAEA in terms of research on new high-yield and drought-resistant varieties of crops In a meeting with the Director General of IAEA, the prime minister emphasised collaboration in view of the impact of climate change on Pakistan and related challenges including water energy and food security

PTI, SIC bond tur ning acrimonious amid Raza, Mar wat war of words

Tm t h e s e c o n d q u a r t e r o f t h i s y e a r M o n d a y ’s p o l i c y d e c i s i o n w o u l d b e t h e l a s t a h e a d o f t h e A p r i l e x p i r y o f a $ 3 b i l l i o n S t a n d - b y A r r a n g e m e n t ( S B A ) w i t h t h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l M o n e t a r y F u n d ( I M F ) T h e m e d i a n e s t i m a t e i n a R e u t e r s p o l l o f 1 7 a n a l y s t s p r e d i c t s t h e S B P w i l l h o l d r a t e s s t e a d y T h r e e a n a l y s t s a r e f o r e c a s t i n g a 1 0 0b a s i s - p o i n t ( b p s ) c u t , w h i l e o n e e x p e c t s a 2 5 - b p s c u t o n M o n d a y F o u r t e e n o f t h o s e s u r v e y e d e x p e c t a r a t e c u t i n t h e A p r i l - J u n e q u a r t e r P a k i s t a n s k e y r a t e w a s l a s t r a i s e d i n J u n e t o f i g h t p e r s i s t e n t i n f l a t i o n a r y p r e s s u r e s a n d t o m e e t o n e o f t h e c o n d i t i o n s s e t b y t h e I M F f o r s e c u r i n g t h e b a i l o u t T h e c o u n t r y s c o n s u m e r p r i c e i n d e x f o r F e b r u a r y r o s e 2 3 1 % y e a r o n y e a r i t s s l o w e s t r a t e s i n c e J u n e 2 0 2 2 p a r t l y d u e t o t h e “ b a s e e ff e c t ” “ S e v e r a l i n f l a t i o n a r y r i s k s l o o m l a rg e i n c l u d i n g t h e p o t e n t i a l i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f s a l e s t a x o n p e t r o l e u m p r o d u c t s , h e i g h t e n e d f o o d i n f l a t i o n d u r i n g R a m a d a n , a n d t h e p r o s p e c t o f e n t e r i n g a n e w I M F p r o g r a m , ” S a a d H a n i f , d e p u t y h e a d o f r e s e a r c h a t I s m a i l I q b a l S e c u r i t i e s , s a i d I n J a n u a r y t h e c e n t r a l b a n k r a i s e d t h e a v e r a g e i n f l a t i o n f o r e c a s t f o r t h e f i s c a l y e a r e n d i n g i n J u n e t o 2 3 % - 2 5 % f r o m a p r e v i o u s p r o j e c t i o n o f 2 0 % - 2 2 % d u e t o r i s i n g g a s a n d e l e c t r i c i t y p r i c e s I n f l a t i o n h i t a n a l l - t i m e h i g h o f 3 8 % i n M a y l a s t y e a r, d r i v e n p a r t l y b y n e w t a x a t i o n m e a s u r e s i m p o s e d t o c o m p l y w i t h I M F ’s d e m a n d s f o r a r e s c u e p r o g r a m m e t h a t h e l p e d t h e n a t i o n a v e r t a s o v e r e i g n d e b t d e f a u l t F i n a n c e M i n i s t e r M u h a m m a d A u r a n g z e b d u r i n g a r e c e n t i n t e r v i e w w i t h l o c a l m e d i a o u t l e t G e o N e w s s a i d : I d o t h i n k d u r i n g t h e c o u r s e o f t h i s y e a r, w e w i l l s e e t h e r a t e s c o m i n g d o w n ” M u s t a f a P a s h a , c h i e f i n v e s t m e n t o ff i c e r a t L a k s o n I n v e s t m e n t s , s a i d t h e c h a n c e s o f a r a t e c u t a r e m a t e r i a l l y g r o w i n g w i t h e a c h m o n e t a r y p o l i c y m e e t i n g We e x p e c t a s y m b o l i c c u t o f a r o u n d 1 0 0 o d d b p s o v e r Q 2 o f 2 0

Pakistan Railways launches longest goods train in histor y

e d a s t h e p o o r e s t c o u n t r y i n S o u t h A s i a , p o s i t i o n e d a t 4 0 t h i n t h e r a n k i n g A s p e r t h e I M F s r a n k i n g S o u t h S u d a n i s l i s t e d a s t h e p o o r e s t c o u n t r y g l o b a l l y w i t h a p e r c a p i t a G D P o f $ 4 9 2 7 2 T h e c o u n t r y s e c o n o m i c c h a l l e n g e s a r e l i n k e d t o p o l i t i c a l i n s t a b i l i t y, o n g o i n g c o n f l i c t , a n d l i m i t e d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e S i n c e g a i n i n g i n d e p e n d e n c e i n 2 0 11 , S o u t h S u d a n h a s s t r u g g l e d t o o v e r c o m e t h e s e i s s u e s I n c o n t r a s t L u x e m b o u rg i s r e c o g n i z e d a s t h e w e a l t h i e s t n a t i o n w o r l d w i d e w i t h a G D P p e r c a p i t a o f $ 1 4 5 8 3 4 s u r p a s s i n g I r e l a n d S i n g a p o r e , a n d Q a t a r T h i s r a n k i n g , r e p o r t e d b y F o r b e s , i s d e t e r m i n e d b y a n a l y z i n g e a c h c o u n t r y ’s p e r c a p i t a G D P a n d t h e p u r c h a s i n g p o w e r p a r i t y o f i t s p o p u l a t i o n G D P m e a s u r e s t h e t o t a l e c o n o m i c o u t p u t o f a c o u n t r y w h e r e a s p u r c h a s i n g p o w e r r e f l e c t s t h e s t a n d a r d o f l i v i n g T h e r e p o r t h i g h l i g h t s a s i g n i f i c a n t p r e s e n c e o f A f r i c a n c o u n t r i e s a m o n g t h e t e n p o o r e s t g l o b a l l y, w i t h B u r u n d i , t h

Confucius Institute hosts a vibrant c ultural event, Qissah

television writer Misbah Nosheen and actor Mehroz

This unique festival brings together 150 students, faculty, and cultural enthusiasts from 8 universities across the country to celebrate and share stories from diverse cultures with a special focus on Chinese traditions Gwadar Pro reported

The participants expressed their profound understanding of Chinese culture around the theme of Chinatown through operas, dances, pantomime performances, traditional dress shows, and Tai Chi demonstrations

These performances not only highlighted China’s rich cultural heritage but also fostered a deeper

appreciation of it among Pakistani audiences

Dr Shoukat Ali, Senior Tutor/ Head of Cocurricular at UAF, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and Pakistan Zhou Changming Chinese director of the Confucius Institute also addressed the audience praising the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm in promoting cross-cultural exchanges A highlight of the festival was the storytelling sessions, where participants shared folk tales, legends and historical narratives These stories told through lively narratives and e n g a g i n g p e r f o r m a n c e s r a n g e d f r o m t r a d i t i o n a l f o l k t a l e s t o m o d e r n i n t e r p r e t a t i o n s o f c u l t u r a l t h e m e s w e r e t o l d w i t h p a s s i o n a n d e n t h u s i a s m reflecting the diverse cultural influences present in both Pakistan and China

The judges of the event were renowned Pakistani

Negotiations with IMF progressing positively: Attaullah Tarar

Gul Their expertise and insight into the arts ensured a fair and objective evaluation of the performances Judges praised the participants for their creativity and ability to bring these stories to life

They also stressed the importance of cross-cultural

c o m p l i a n t M u d a r a b a h - b a s e d O p e n M a r k e t O p e r a t i o n ( O M O ) A c c o r d i n g t o d a t a s h a r e d b y t h e S B P, t h i s i n j e c t i o n , a i m e d a t e n h a n c i n g m a r k e t l i q u i d i t y, c o m p r i s e d o f R s 7 5 7 t r i l l i o n r a i s e d t h r o u g h r e v e r s e r e p o O M O a t a 2 2 0 5 % r a t e , a n d R s 3 1 0 b i l l i o n t h r o u g h S h a r i a h - c o m p l i a n t M o d a r a b a h - b a s e d O M O a t a 2 2 0 6 % r a t e T h e O M O s w h i c h i n v o l v e d 7 - d a y r e v e r s e r e p o s i s p a r t o f t h e S B P s b r o a d e r e c o n o m i c s t r a t e g y t o e n s u r e s t a b i l i t y a n d l i q u i d i t y i n t h e f i n a n c i a l s y s

sparked division and enmity across communities The

presented to the UN General Assembly underscores the

tolerance and

of Muslims

emphasizes the need to

or

the

Crucially the

promoting a more

of

from

of

issues While the resolution garnered support from fifty-five countries in the General Assembly India emerged as a prominent opponent Critics argue that India s stance reflects its own troubling history of extremism and violence against its Muslim population Muslims in India endure systemic discrimination in education, employment, and political representation, exacerbating social disparities India’s past is marred by incidents such as the Babri Masjid massacre and various communal riots including those in Gujarat Muzaffarnagar Delhi and Haridwar The designation of the World Day for Combating Islamophobia marks a significant step towards addressing prejudice and promoting inclusivity on a global scale

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday launched the c o u n t r y w i d e s p r i n g p l a n t a t i o n d r i v e b y p l a n t i n g a s a p

Three abducted persons rescued from Dharki, Tangwani

o b b e r s i n K a c h a a r e a T h e t w o k i d n a p p e d b r o t h e r s , Z o h o o r A h m e d a n d A k h b i A h m e d , w e r e k i d n a p p e d b y r o b b e r s a d a y a g o , p o l i c e s a i d P o l i c e s a i d t h a t t h e r o b b e r s w e r e s h i f t i n g t h e h o s t a g e s f r o m o n e p l a c e t o a n o t h e r w h i l e p o l i c e t e a m s w e r e p r e s e n t i n t h e r a w a r e a w i t h m o d e r n w e a p o n s o n a t i p - o ff D u r i n g t h e e x c h a n g e o f f i r e t h e k i d n a p p e r s f l e d a f t e r s e e i n g t h e e n c i r c l e m e n t , p o l i c e s a i d T h e p o l i c e t o o k t h e h o s t a g e s i n t o c u s t o d y a n d b r o u g h t t h e m s a f e l y t o t h e p o l i c e s t a t i o n t h e p o l i c e s

Senate by-elections

P P P d o m i n a t e s i n l e a d - u p t o

TH O U G H the PPP won four of the Six Senate seats to which by-elections were held, the most attention was focused on the election from Islamabad of Yousaf Reza Gilani, who is tipped be the next Senate Chairman when it convenes after the election on April 2 The Islamabad by-election was caused by Mr Gilani s having won a National Assembly eat on February 9 At that time, it had not been decided even that the PPP was to take the Senate Chairmanship Mr Gilani is now set to become the only person to become Presiding officer of both Houses of Parliament This is apart from the fact that he has been Prime Minister He will probably be the first Senate Chairman for whom this will probably not be an elevation

One of the more interesting features was that the PTI was unable to participate because its lack of a symbol meant that it could not put forward any candidates This may not have been as great a hardship as it seems for it was unlikely to obtain any seats However this will have serious implications for the upcoming election, as the PTI would like to claim all the Senate seats available in KP, as well as about half the seats from Punjab and at least one from Sindh However the alternative would either be for the Sunni Ittehad Council to award its candidates tickets, or for them to contest independently, as they did in the general election The PTI has conducted its elections on March 3 again and submitted the result to the Election Commission of Pakistan on March 5, but so far has not received any response If it does not, it will miss out on the Senate seats Then it might well miss out on the by-elections due to be held on seats vacated by those elected to more than one It might be remembered that the ECP took away the PTI s symbol, the ‘bat’ because it had not carried out party elections

The PTI held elections but they were then rejected by the ECP as not being according to the party constitution The recent election was held in the light of this ECP decision

The Senate by-elections also mark a trend for politicians Apart from Mr Gilani, vacating Senators stepped down to the provincial assembly, including outgoing Chairman Sadiq Sanjarani However now the focus of all the parties must be on the coming Senate elections, which should follow party lines in the provincial assemblies

Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit

S o c i a l s t i g m a s d i s c o u r a g i n g m e n t a l h e a l t h

MAHA

Sdominates

opinion

represen-

was the first who brought up the term stigma into the main social theoretical fold Stigma has many other types that influence our society and affect people negatively in many different aspects Social stigmas associated with mental illness are one of the major issues that needs everyone s attention to break this harmful cycle

In this contemporary society, mental health has emerged as a critical aspect of the overall well being of humans The time since psychology was established as a new discipline Psychologists and other scientists have been striving and working for centuries to provide knowledge about the importance of mental health mental illnesses and their proper treatment However pervasive social stigmas continue to cast shadow on mental health discussions, hindering open conversations and discouraging individuals from seeking help

The social stigmas of mental illnesses are universal however in countries where stigmatizing beliefs are dominant the likelihood of seeking help from specialized mental health professionals is constrained Individuals refrain from contacting mental health practitioners when in need of formal support They fear being stigmatized, judged and rejected by everyone near them Even in this continuously changing and modernizing world people who seek professional treatment for their mental health issues face stigmatization

The conceptual implications of social stigma first implies the citizens of a country share the same stigmatizing perceptions and stereotypes at least to some extent While elaborating social stigma we cannot be ignorant to the fact that dominant cultural beliefs tremendously influence individuals going through mental illnesses When it comes to mental health culture can play a significant role Mental health is shaped by our cultural beliefs, values and norms Our culture can impact the way we understand and cope with mental illness It can also affect the way we seek help and support Talking about our own country Pakistan it was believed that there’s no such thing as mental illness and that mental health issues stem from supernatural forces and such psychiatric patients were forced to be treated by religious healers and still in this modern world of technology there are people who consider it wrong to take professional help to treat mental issues

Pakistan is home to more than 200 million people but has the poorest mental health indicators and less than 500 psychiatrists for this size of population This paucity of mental health professionals in Pakistan creates a massive treatment gap, leaving more than 90 percent of the population with mental issues untreated Public studies have confirmed the widespread existence of stereotypes about individuals having mental health problems and also those who try to seek professional help for it They are considered dangerous, unpredictable, difficult to talk to and maybe physically harmful in some situations These negative stereotypes can have a formidable influence on people going through the same circumstances One common conclusion of such studies is that it diminishes the beneficial effects of mental health treatment In related cases sometimes individuals hesitate and avoid seeking professional help because of the fear of being judged or stigmatized and this silence perpetuates the cycle of suffering and isolation Negative societal responses to people with mental illnesses may be the single greatest barrier to the development of mental health programmes worldwide These pernicious effects and the associated human rights issues, are increasingly recognized as a worthy target for social action In recent years, a number of programmes have been implemented under the rubric of ‘anti-stigma programming’ to promote greater social equity for people with mental illnesses People usually consider that an individual going through some kind of mental illness is dangerous crazy and harmful The main setback for these kinds of beliefs is the lack of awareness and misinformation Inaccurate or misleading media representation can contribute to both of these factors The consequences of negative media images for people who have mental illnesses are profound The violent and exaggerated representation of people with mental illnesses in movies, documentaries and other sorts of

media encourages a stigma being attached to people actually going through it Studies consistently show that the dramatic, overwhelming and comical images of mental health patients in media portrayals has always caused a greater prevalence of stigma towards mental illness Media plays a crucial role in the development of societal attitudes To combat social stigma related to mental illness comprehensive educational as well as social media campaigns are essential By fostering understanding and awareness people can challenge preconceived notions about mental health It should be emphasized that seeking help is a sign of strength not weakness There is a need for encouraging equality between mental and physical illness that both of them are equally important for every human being We should always look forward to preventing these kinds of social stigmas that can cause someone to lose their lives We often think that alone we are unable to make a change but one must remember that change always starts with one individual because someone has to take initiative Building supportive communities is vital for overcoming social stigmas Encouraging open conversations within families, schools and workplaces creates an environment where individuals feel safe in discussing their mental health concerns without the fear of being judged or stigmatized Don’t let yourself be among those who make these stigmas prevail Educate others and choose your words wisely while talking to others

Responsible portrayal of mental health in media can contribute to destigmatization Additionally, using respectful language when discussing mental health can reduce negative associations and foster a more compassionate environment Use of programmes in which awareness of mental health and seeking professional help when going through mental issues can save us from a bigger loss In the end it s all about being kind to every single individual you interact with because no one knows what you or any other person is going through, so be generous always regardless of how people behave or treat you

The writer is a freelance columnist

R e s p o n s i bl e p o r t r aya l o f m e n t a l h e a l t h i n m e d i a c a n c o n t r i bu t e t o d e s t i g m a t i z a t i o n . A dd i t i o n a l ly, u s i n g r e s p e c t f u l l a n g u ag e w h e n d i s c u s s i n g m e n t a l h e a l t h c a n r e d u c e n e g a t i v e a s s o c i a t i o n s a n d fo s t e r a m o r e c o m p a s s i o n a t e e nv i ro n m e n t . U s e o f p ro g r a m m e s i n w h i ch aw a r e n e s s o f m e n t a l h e a l t h a n d s e e k i n g p ro fe s s i o n a l h e l p w h e n g o i n g t h ro u g h m e n t a l i s s u e s c a n s av e u s f ro m a b i gg e r l o s s .

J

the rule of law Efforts to address political crises should also consider reinforcing the independence and effectiveness of the judicial system to ensure fair and impartial resolution of legal matters

of any society If Pakistan’s justice system faces challenges in global rankings, it underscores the need for reforms to enhance its efficiency fairness and accessibility Addressing these issues can contribute to building a stronger foundation for the rule of law and societal harmony This is high time for our leadership to realize the need for justice, as we can t end poverty and backwardness without making a revolutionary step in our judicial system

Apart from that Pakistan is an Islamic Republic in which instant and inexpensive justice is essential and the foundation of the basic welfare of a common man who deserves to avail every opportunity for the well-being of his family The majority of our young graduates who are frustrated by this system, have no other option except to migrate to other countries which provide social and economic justice to everybody including foreigners Justice is intricately linked to prosperity A just society fosters an environment where individuals and communities can thrive without fear of discrimination or injustice A fair legal system protection of property rights and equal opportunities contribute to economic growth and social harmony When justice prevails it provides a foundation for stability trust and the overall well-being of a nation, paving the way for prosperity on various levels

The interconnection between political and judicial crises can exacerbate challenges within a nation A harmonious relationship between these two spheres is vital for upholding

Recognition of the interconnectedness between government institutions and the judicial system is crucial for addressing societal challenges If there s a perceived failure in understanding this situation in Pakistan, it underscores the need for collaborative efforts to strengthen both political and judicial institutions fostering a more effective and accountable

Ponzi peril

I am writing to draw attention to a pressing issue that has been affecting our community – the alarming rise in Ponzi schemes preying on unsuspecting investors It has come to my attention that a growing number of individuals are falling victim to these fraudulent investment schemes putting their hard-earned money at risk Ponzi schemes operate by promising high returns with minimal risk attracting individuals seeking lucrative investment opportunities Unfortunately, many investors may not be aware of the inherent risks and the unsustainable nature of these schemes As a result, they end up losing their savings and the devastating consequences ripple through families and communities It is crucial for the public to be educated about the red flags associated with Ponzi schemes Lack of transparency consistently high returns regardless of market conditions and pressure to recruit new investors are common characteristics of such scams Awareness campaigns and educational initiatives can empower individuals to make informed decisions and protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes I urge our community leaders, regulatory bodies, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in raising awareness investigating suspicious activities and implementing measures to prevent the proliferation of Ponzi schemes By working together we can safeguard the financial well-being of our citizens and foster an environment of trust and security in our local economy IRSHAD ULLAH

Clacker cautions

I am writing to express my concerns about the effects of

A robust judicial system is fundamental for the proper functioning and prosperity of a state . It provides the framework for resolving disputes, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring justice for all citiz ens. A well-functioning judiciar y contributes to stability, attracts investments, and fosters an environment where individuals and businesses can thrive with confidence in the legal system

Need of the hour

PTI from the national discourse

H

TThe PTI alleged that the establishment orchestrated the election results effectively turning PTI s winning candidates into losers According to the PTI based on the compiled results from form 45 they had secured a clear majority in Punjab and at the centre However, their apparent victory was overturned through widespread, blatant, and shameless rigging depriving the PTI of the mandate bestowed upon them by the people of Pakistan

The fierce and unrelenting counterattack dealt a decisive blow to Imran Khan and the remaining leadership of the PTI, leaving them with a stark realization: without the forgiveness of the Establishment and an end to the relentless attacks on the PTI and its members, their political survival remains uncertain It became evident that the party s revival hinges on reconciliation with the Establishment and an end to hostilities towards the PTI its leadership, and its supporters They fully realize that until they mend fences with the Establishment, they will never have the level playing field enjoyed by other political parties to pursue their manifestos However they may have underestimated that the formation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission typically stems from a position of strength, not weakness

The concept of Truth and Reconciliation is a framework for addressing past injustices and human rights violations, particularly in the aftermath of conflicts or periods of repression It aims to promote healing and societal reconciliation by acknowledging and addressing the truth of past wrongs fostering accountability, and facilitating forgiveness and understanding among affected communities

The concept gained prominence in the late 20th century notably through initiatives

such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in South Africa, launched following the end of apartheid under the leadership of President Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu The TRC provided a platform for victims and perpetrators to testify about their experiences, with the aim of uncovering the truth, promoting reconciliation, and preventing future atrocities

The objectives of Truth and Reconciliation processes typically include: Establishing an accurate historical record of human rights violations and abuses; providing a forum for victims to share their experiences and receive acknowledgment and recognition of their suffering; holding perpetrators accountable for their actions through mechanisms such as public hearings or trials; promoting reconciliation and healing among divided communities by fostering empathy understanding and forgiveness; Recommending measures to address the root causes of conflict and prevent future atrocities

In line with this concept, the PTI Chairman has notably softened his rhetoric against the establishment a departure from his previous stance which often involved a confrontational rhetoric This change came after his arrest and media ban, prompting a shift in approach The PTI leadership now maintains a clear and persistent stance that they are no longer in conflict with the establishment They have ceased defending the events of May 9 and are instead advocating for an independent judicial commission to investigate the incident Their demand is for thorough scrutiny of evidence and testimonies, with individuals implicated to face legal consequences if found guilty, while those innocent should be exonerated

Proposing the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in the current Pakistani context is not only inappropriate but also misguided The concept of TRC, as perceived by PTI and its leadership, appears flawed Moreover, the timing couldnÊt be worse: the Establishment holds unassailable power, while Imran Khan finds himself incarcerated and the PTI is in disarray

Government has no business bullying social media platforms on speech

Lsure on the platforms The common problem is government pressure to make the platforms content moderation” policies deciding what and who they will delete or downgrade reflect government’s preferences Social media platforms are private entities that express through those policies, their editorial preferences When government interferes with these, the platforms suffer a First Amendment injury Government has a need and duty to speak The presidency is as a notably talkative occupant (Theodore Roosevelt) said a bully pulpit Other agencies, too, must address the public about their objectives and methods President Biden, with his characteristic blunderbuss rhetoric accused social media companies of “killing people by not censoring pandemic-related posts he disliked He has a (frequently exercised) right to speak public foolishness Government speech should not, however, be secret for the purpose of concealing stealthy attempts to control others’ speech

When the government s secretive speaking to platforms serves its agenda of shaping discourse on those platforms, the government is not speaking to the public to which it is accountable Rather, it is attempting to unaccountably regulate individuals’ speech This is an attempt (as another amicus brief says) to launder constitutional violations through private entities

The Biden administration has behaved badly, but the urge to break private entities to the saddle of government is bipartisan FIRE’s brief notes acerbically that some states’ attorneys general who are challenging the federal government s pressure on social media platforms did themselves, pressure Target Corp by intimating, preposterously, that the sale of LBGTQ-themed merchandise might violate some states’ obscenity laws And they suggested ominously that Target s directors and officers may be negligent and therefore liable because they authorized merchandising that negatively affected the company’s stock price

Concerning Monday’s case, the Biden administration says its dealings with the platforms have been constitutionally insignificant because the process was collaborative This is supposed to be reassuring?

Pending judicially clarified rules, this rule might suffice: Government should confine itself to publicly explaining and justifying its behavior avoiding private speech with the platforms that is secretive and conveys even a tincture of pressure So, you state that want to compel for the protection of disfavored conservatives the platforms to adopt more lenient content moderation policies: You should understand that this is incompatible with the Constitution and (hence) with conservatism properly understood

The party has distanced itself from former army officers-turned-social media activists stationed abroad who were critical of the armed forces Rather than directly blaming the armed forces for alleged rigging, PTI now directs its criticism towards the Election Commission and the interim government They pledge to wage a political struggle within the confines of constitutional rights and laws vowing not to resort to vigilantism

Rather than issuing threats PTI advocates for the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate rigging allegations and ensure justice for all victims Despite being victims of alleged rigging and experiencing setbacks to their mandate the PTI conducts itself responsibly in Parliament raising concerns about perceived injustices without directly implicating the establishment

But there is a big problem: There are significant differences between the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of South Africa and any hypothetical commission in Pakistan In South Africa the TRC was established under the leadership of Nelson Mandela who had spent decades fighting for equal rights for black people and eventually became President He initiated the commission from a position of strength, not while he was imprisoned In Pakistan, the feasibility of implementing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is highly questionable particularly given the current political dynamics With Imran Khan s party facing significant challenges for survival and the entrenched power of the establishment, the likelihood of accepting the principles of truth and reconciliation, especially those involving accountability mechanisms is slim The establishment is unlikely to endorse procedures such as public

hearings or trials for holding perpetrators accountable and addressing the root causes of conflict Key components of TRC such as public testimonies documentation of atrocities, community dialogues, reparations programmes, and educational initiatives fostering understanding and tolerance, would face strong opposition and resistance from the establishment

The concept was copied by many countries including Rwanda Sierra Leone Liberia and Canada In some cases the Truth and Reconciliation commissions succeeded in uncovering the truth of past atrocities, promoting healing and reconciliation, and laying the groundwork for lasting peace and stability In other cases challenges such as limited political will ongoing conflict or resistance from perpetrators hindered the effectiveness of Truth and Reconciliation efforts Proposing the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in the current Pakistani context is not only inappropriate but also misguided The concept of TRC as perceived by PTI and its leadership appears flawed Moreover the timing couldn t be worse: the Establishment holds unassailable power, while Imran Khan finds himself incarcerated and the PTI is in disarray Frontline leaders have deserted the party, and second-tier figures are struggling for survival Given these circumstances PTI may need to wait for a considerable period until conditions become conducive for initiating a TRC

The writer retired as Press Secretary the the President, and is former Press Minister at Embassy of Paikistan to France and former MD Shalimar Recording & Broadcasting Company Limited

Hamas’ official account

The document did not get any attention in the Western press because the West treats Israel as truthful and Arabs as liars

Iof reliance on international organizations and norms The International Court of Justice report has proven to be utterly ineffectual in the management of the international legal restraints on Israeli genocide Hamas was right that the Western coalition has always regarded Israel as a state which is above the law and that it was permitted (by the Western coalition) to disregard all international treaties and resolutions pertaining to its occupation of Palestine

The U S invaded Iraq in the name of implementation of U N Security Council resolutions while the U S shields Israel from demands to implement U N S C resolutions on Palestine Hamas indirectly takes a swipe at the twostate myth when it reminds readers that Israel has categorically rejected the creation of a Palestinian state (Even the ostensible dove, Yitzhak Rabin, never uttered the term Palestinian state” in his lifetime, and he was supposed to be “the man of peace ”)

MEASURE OF LAST RESORT: The document makes a quasi-legal case for the measure of last resort undertaken by Hamas on Oct 7 It states its reasoning as being predicated on: 1) the abortion of all hopes for return and liberation, after 75 years of “suffering and occupation” and the “catastrophic results of the peace process path ; 2) the Judaization (of land) plots and the divisions in place and time in the Aqsa Mosque and the increase in the pace of provocative invasions by settlers in the mosque; the practices of the far-right Zionist coalition in tightening of control over the West bank and finalizing Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem as well as the plan to expel Palestinians from the West Bank; the international disregard for the plight of thousands of Palestinians prisoners; the disregard for the unjust siege forced on the Gaza strip, which was left to “die a slow death;” the increase in Israeli settlements in the West Bank at the fastest pace and the rise in settlers’ violence and crimes; the inaction regarding the hope of 7 million Palestinians (in the diaspora) to return to their homeland; and the impotence of the international community regarding the creation of a Palestinian state Hamas put its breakout attack in the context of a “national response” to those practices and the “expression

passes only the West Bank, Gaza and Jerusalem or more)

AVOIDING CIVILIANS:

On the execution of the Oct 7 operation Hamas explains on page 8 of document that it always avoided targeting civilians This may not be true because suicide bombings, while not necessarily aimed at civilians fail to distinguish between civilian and military targets Hamas reminded its audience that after the massacre of Hebron (by an Israeli) in 1994 it launched an initiative which called for the avoidance of targeting civilians in war It said that it repeated the offer while Israel ignored it and continued to kill civilians

On the night of Oct 7 Hamas says “there may have been some errors during the implementation of the Aqsa Deluge operation due to the total and swift collapse of the Israeli military and security order and that some chaos occurred after infiltration through the fence and the security apparatus separating Gaza and the area of operation inside Israel

The document denies lies and fabrications that are all sourced from the Israeli It gives examples of exposed lies and cites Mondoweiss This section shows a major shift in the media and propaganda strategy of the movement In addition to the decline of the religious component of the rhetoric, the new Hamas of Yahya Sinwar is more sensitive to world public opinion especially regarding the harming of civilians

The movement categorically denied stories of rape although Western media failed to carry those denials because they conflict with the Israeli-planted narratives Hamas also correctly refers to verified stories to the effect that Israeli gunfire killed many of the Israelis on that night just as it killed Israelis later during the savage and indiscriminate bombing of Gaza Hamas and Hizbullah have never in their entire history committed known sexual offenses as their religious-moral code strictly prohibits such deeds Moreover the document argues that many Israeli civilians are actually armed settlers or reservists in the occupation army Significantly Hamas declared its willingness to accept an independent and fair investigation and expressed confidence that they will prove their innocence

In the document Hamas calls on the U S Germany Canada and the U K in particular to allow the International Criminal Court to conduct an investigation of the crimes that were committed Of course, neither the U S nor Israel would allow the ICC to conduct an investigation that would inevitably document crimes by Israel

In the end, the document salutes “free people from all countries of the world” (without regard to religions nationalities and orientations) This underlines the new direction of the movement in the footsteps of Hizbullah and shows that the movement has incorporated the rhetoric of progressive, leftist and liberation movements

freedom ” as well as the right of self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital (Here it is noteworthy that Hamas does not delineate the borders of the would-be state, and whether it encom-

The document did not get any attention in the Western press because the West treats Israel as truthful and Arabs as liars: old Orientalist cliches

As ad

IPolitical Consultative Conference (CPPCC) showcased the nation s pioneering spirit and dedication to shaping a brighter future for all Let’s delve deeper into the transformative highlights and innovative strides made by the Chinese government during this pivotal moment in history

IGNITING ECONOMIC

DYNAMISM AND SUSTAINABILITY

At the heart of China’s agenda during the Two Sessions was a bold vision for economic dynamism and sustainability With an emphasis on innovation green growth and poverty alleviation China reinforced its position as a global leader in driving high-quality development

Innovation Ecosystem: China unveiled groundbreaking initiatives to cultivate an innovation ecosystem that fosters breakthroughs in frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence quantum computing and clean energy Through strategic investments in research and development the nation aims to unleash the full potential of its scientific talent and propel economic growth through technological innovation

Green Revolution: Embracing the imperative of environmental stewardship China doubled down on its commitment to green development and ecological conservation Ambitious measures to accelerate the transition to clean energy, mitigate carbon emissions, and promote sustainable practices across industries underscored China’s resolve to lead the charge towards a greener more sustainable future for generations to come

Poverty Eradication: Building on the remarkable success of its poverty alleviation campaign, China reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to eradicating absolute poverty and fostering rural revitalization Through targeted interventions in education healthcare and infrastructure the government continues to uplift millions of people from

poverty, empowering communities and fostering inclusive growth EMPOWERING SOCIAL PROGRESS AND WELFARE

In tandem with its economic priorities China prioritized initiatives aimed at empowering social progress and enhancing the well-being of its citizens, underlining its commitment to building a harmonious and inclusive society

Healthcare Renaissance: China unveiled visionary healthcare reforms designed to ensure universal access to high-quality healthcare services for all citizens From bolstering primary healthcare infrastructure to expanding medical insurance coverage and enhancing disease prevention and control measures, China’s healthcare renaissance embodies its commitment to health equity and resilience in the face of emerging public health challenges

Education Revolution: Recognizing the transformative power of education China embarked on a bold journey of educational reform aimed at fostering talent and nurturing creativity Initiatives to reduce educational inequality modernize curriculum and teaching methods and promote vocational training reflect China s vision of equipping its citi-

zens with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the 21st-century economy Social Welfare Reinvention: China reinforced its commitment to strengthening social welfare systems ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity From enhancing social security coverage to expanding social assistance programs and improving benefits for vulnerable groups, China’s social welfare reinvention embodies its ethos of compassion solidarity and social justice CHAMPIONING GLOBAL COOPERATION AND DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENT

Amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics, China reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to multilateralism, cooperation, and dialogue advocating for a more inclusive and interconnected world order

a f ut u r e o f s h a r e d p r o s p e r i t y a n d m u t u a l b e ne f i t t h r o u g h e n h a n c e d c o n n e c t i v i t y, t r a d e f a c i l i t a t i o n , a n d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e d e v e l o pm e n t B y f o s t e r i n g e c o n o m i c i n t e g r a t i o n a n d c u l t u r a l e x c h a n g e t h e B R I c o n t i n u e s t o s e r v e a s a c a t a l y s t f o r r e g i o n a l c o o p e r -

Fr a n c e p o i s e d t o r e - e n t e r Pa k i s t a n ’s L N G

m a r ke t a m i d e n e r g y t a l k s

CONTRACT AWARDED BY PPP TO A FRENCH FIRM IN 2010 ENDED UP IN APEX COURT

energy resource exploration and enhancing the energy infrastructure

ation and sustainable development across c o n t i n e n t s Global Health Leadership: As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic China

to the cancellation of the project due to internal disputes

The Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) administration, succeeding the PPP, successfully initiated LNG imports through a 2015 agreement with Qatar marking a shift in Pakistan’s energy import strategy However recent challenges in securing LNG through spot purchases have highlighted the need for diversified LNG sourcing strategies In recent developments, Dr Musadiq Masood Malik Pakistan’s Minister of Energy met with French Deputy Head of Mission Guillaume Dabouis to discuss potential collaborations in the energy sector, including LNG provision,

The discussions also covered initiatives aimed at reducing line losses and bolstering the energy sector

The Pakistani government has exp r e s s e d a c o m m i t m e n t t o a c o m p r eh e n s i v e a p p r o a c h t o i t s e n e rg y challenges with plans to present a robust strategy to the International Mone t a r y F u n d ( I M F ) t h a t a l i g n s w i t h national interests This approach is part of a broader economic reform agenda focusing on various sectors, including energy, finance and IT with an emphasis on integrating modern technologies in agriculture to drive transformation and growth The renewed dialogue between

C hina, Angola upgrade ties as presidents hold talks

BEIJING

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Angolan President Joao Lourenco

agriculture and green development

supports Angola in safeguarding its national sovereignty, security and development interests, exploring a modernization path suited to its national conditions, and realizing national development and revitalization he said China is also willing to strengthen exchanges of governance experience with Angola upgrade bilateral strategic relations and jointly promote the modernization process of each country, Xi noted President Lourenco said that the friendly relations between the two countries have maintained a high level of development and China’s support and cooperation have greatly promoted Angola’s infrastructure construction and economic and social development setting an example of mutually beneficial cooperation

After the meeting, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of cooperation plans for jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as multiple bilateral cooperation documents in areas such as economy, trade,

The Friday meeting holds great significance for bilateral relations between China and Angola, with a focus on enhancing the quality of business and trade cooperation Song Wei a professor from the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University told the Global Times

During his visit to China President Lourenco not only visited Beijing but also included Shandong Province in his itinerary, as highlighted by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin during a press conference on March 12

Shandong Province known for its rapid development in agriculture and pharmaceuticals presents promising opportunities for cooperation with Angola Such cooperation could also help the country a major importer of food and agricultural goods, to develop its own agricultural industries and improve food security, said Song The enhanced relations have also been hailed by people in Angola Luis Cupenala president of the Angola-China Chamber of Commerce (CAC) said in an interview with the Xinhua News Agency that Presi-

dent Lourenco’s China trip will “renew the vigor in bilateral relations ” adding “our expectation is to mobilize more investment and cooperation especially from private sectors to our country in agriculture industrialization and sustainable development

Song noted that President Lourenco has been actively promoting reforms in Angola since taking office, drawing inspiration from China’s development experience to drive domestic economic growth and modernization The mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Angola also dispels the notion propagated by some Western media of China engaging in debt trap diplomacy in Africa, analysts said China has played a crucial role in supporting Angola’s development in recent years, particularly through infrastructure projects undertaken by Chinese companies These projects have significantly improved the business environment in Angola laying the groundwork for attracting foreign investment and diversifying the country s industrial base beyond its reliance on oil, said Song President Lourenco s visit to China, following the successful conclusion of China’s “two sessions,” also underscores the strong friendship and exchanges between China and Africa said analysts who anticipated increased interactions between China and African countries in 2024 During the meeting with President Lourenco President Xi also pointed out that China is a reliable friend and sincere partner for African countries in safeguarding independence, promoting development and revitalization China is willing to strengthen multilateral coordination with Angola and other African countries to safeguard the common interests of developing countries advocate for equal and orderly world multipolarity and inclusive economic globalization and promote the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind, said Xi

Hamas issues ceasefire proposal detailing exchange of c aptives, prisoners

China’s Two Sessions 2024 stand as a testament to the nation’s pioneering spirit visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to shaping a better future for humanity From igniting economic dynamism and social progress to championing global cooperation and sustainability, China continues to inspire hope and forge new pathways towards a world of shared prosperity harmony and innovation As the world navigates through uncertain times China s bold vision and resolute action offer a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come

CIA cover t campaign against China shows ‘necessit y of counter-espionage effor ts’

BEIJING S ta f f C o r r e S p o n d e n t

A Reuters report on the US’ covert influence operations against China and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief ’s pledge of more China-targeted resources corroborated each other and again demonstrated the US continuous disinformation campaign and cognitive warfare against China Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at Friday s routine press briefing Reuters revealed in an exclusive report on Thursday that then US president Donald Trump authorized the CIA in 2019 to launch a clandestine campaign on Chinese social media aimed at turning public opinion in China against its government according to former US officials with direct knowledge of the highly classified operation CIA chief William Burns wrote in an article in Foreign Affairs magazine in February that the CIA has “committed substantially more resources toward China-related intelligence collection operations and analysis around the world We re hiring and training more Mandarin speakers while stepping up efforts across the world to compete with China from Latin America to Africa to the Indo-Pacific, Burns wrote Wang said on Friday that the US has been systematically and premeditatedly spreading false information related to China all year round which has become an important means of cognitive warfare against China Republican Senator Rand Paul once bluntly stated that the US government is the greatest propagator of disinformation in the history of the world, Wang said, adding that the US often accuses other countries of spreading false information, but in reality, the US itself is the true source of disinformation Wang stressed that “fabricating and spreading lies will only accelerate the bankruptcy of one s own reputation; spreading disinformation cannot stop China s progress but will only bring more shame on the US According to the Reuters report, three former officials told Reuters that the CIA created a small team of operatives who used bogus internet identities to spread negative narratives about the Chinese government while leaking disparaging intelligence to overseas news outlets This enabled the CIA to take action not only in China but also in countries around the world where the US sees China as a competitor Four former officials said the operation targeted public opinion in Southeast Asia, Africa and the South Pacific, Reuters reported Though the incumbent administration declined to comment on the existence of the program or whether it is still active Reuters citing intelligence historians reported that when the White House grants the CIA covert action authority through an order known as a presidential finding, it often remains in place across administrations Tian Wenlin, a research fellow at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, told the Global Times on Friday that the revelation surprises no one as infiltration and color revolution have long been the US methods of choice US officials revealed the campaign probably out of political purposes in the run-up to the presidential election, but it rang the alarm for China to be cautious of such operations, Tian said By stirring up opposition and divisions, the ultimate goal of such infiltration is to disrupt social order and poison social morale forcing values and socioeconomic norms to transform in a negative way Tian elaborated Reuters reported the CIA s campaign signaled a return to methods that marked Washington s struggle with the former Soviet Union The Cold War is back, said Tim Weiner, author of a book on the history of political warfare But Tian believes that while the US’ color revolution scheme succeeded in the Soviet Union it cannot win easily in China as we have recognized such tactics and learned lessons from many predecessors The revelation again demonstrated the necessity and urgency of China s enhanced counter-espionage efforts in recent years and underlined the importance of raising public awareness and cautiousness against infiltration attempts analysts said

D

Welfare and Media along with his staff visits Hyderabad, Mirpur K has, Tando Muhammad K han Waseem

ISLAMABAD

S TA F

AMBASSADOR of Iran to Pakistan Dr Reza Amiri

Moghadam on Thursday said that there is a strong possibility that the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will be finalized in the upcoming visit of the President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi to Pakistan which is likely to increase the mutual trade between the two countries

The Ambassador of Iran who visited Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry on the invitation of President

ICCI Mr Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawri speaking on the occasion said that from the upcoming visit of the Iranian president to Pakistan there will be several bilateral economic and trade agreements between the two countries, which will further strengthen the mutual economic and trade relations and promote the bilateral business between the two countries

Dr Reza Amiri Moghadam said that the current bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and Iran is $2 5 billion which has increased by 11 percent in the last 11 months

The Ambassador said that after the FTA and bilateral agreements between the two governments for the promotion of mutual trade there is a strong possibility of doubling the mutual trade between Pakistan and Iran to reach $5 billion in the next few years

He said that the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline is a huge facility for the people of Pakistan on behalf of the government of Iran which will benefit both the domestic and industrial sectors of Pakistan

Dr Moghadam said that Iran is serious about resolving Pakistan s energy

problems and that is why Iran completed the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project in 2009 to the border of Pakistan, which cost Iran $1 billion, so that Pakistan could meet its energy needs It could be done, but it is still waiting for its completion from the Pakistan side Iranian Envoy said that Iran is already trading with Turkey Turkmenistan Iran and Azerbaijan in the sector of energy and gas and Pakistan can also adopt the procedure adopted with these countries Dr Reza Amiri said that the banking channel in Pakistan and Iran is a big issue but Iran has a banking channel with Turkey Bahrain and Iraq Pakistan can follow this procedure He said that Pakistan and Iran need to have strong air, maritime and sea links, which will strengthen the economic relations between the two countries and Pakistan will also be connected to regional

and global trade

The Ambassador emphasized on the closeness of maritime links between the two countries, especially Karachi and Gwadar and Chabahar and Bandar Abbas ports and said that Gwadar and Chabahar should be declared as sister ports He said that this era is the era of economic and trade links and

Event marks International D ay to Combat Islamophobia

M a x i m i z i n g h e a l t h d u

sneakers – not a good idea!

Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, signifies a period of spiritual rejuvenation, self-reflection and communal solidarity for Muslims worldwide It is a time when individuals embark on a journey of introspection seeking closeness to Allah through acts of worship, charity, and self-discipline Central to this observance is the daily fast wherein believers abstain from food drink and other worldly pleasures from dawn until sunset Ramadan provides a unique opportunity to prioritize health and well-being By embracing healthier dietary choices, incorporating physical activity, and fostering positive habits individuals can enhance their overall health Challenges & Overcoming Them

and Pakistan were among the founders and put a lot of efforts in drafting and approving this resolution The resolution was presented by Islamic countries and in particular led by 5 countries including Pakistan, Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Indonesia in the negotiations to show their strong determination to combat the Islamophobia PR

CDWP

g

While Ramadan is undoubtedly a time of deep spiritual significance, it also presents its own set of challenges The shift in eating and sleeping patterns can leave one feeling a bit out of sorts with dehydration fatigue and the occasional headache becoming unwelcome companions But fret not! With a little planning and mindfulness, one can easily overcome these hurdles, allowing individuals to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual journey of Ramadan

Mindful Eating One of the most crucial aspects of a healthy Ramadan is mindful eating In many cultures, including Pakistan, traditional Ramadan foods tend to be oily fried and high in sugar posing a challenge to maintaining a balanced diet Incorporating plenty of water fruits vegetables, whole grains, and proteins into sehri and iftar can help sustain energy levels and replenish vital nutrients

Lastly do not skip your morning meal! Skipping it is like trying to run a marathon without your

Lifestyle Adjustments For a successful Ramadan experience adjusting one s routine in the weeks leading up to the holy month can help acclimatize the mind body and soul to the demands of fasting Managing sugar intake is crucial during this time High sugar consumption can exacerbate dehydration making fasting more challenging Therefore it is beneficial to replace sugary snacks with healthier alternatives Opting for natural sweeteners like dates and honey not only provides a source of energy but also helps maintain hydration levels, for instance This proactive approach extends beyond dietary adjustments to encompass other lifestyle choices such as smoking Smokers can use this month to think about kicking the habit, or at least moving to alternatives that expose them to less harm Moreover individuals can redirect their focus from excessive shopping to acts of charity and giving back to the community Instead of indulging in materialistic pursuits, consider donating to charitable causes or volunteering your time to help those in need

The challenge is not only to

your appetite during the

but also to maintain positive habits one has developed after the fast breaks and post-Ramadan for maximum benefit Iftar: A Balanced Approach During iftar avoid the temptation to overeat in order to quickly

hunger and thirst Keep in mind that overloading

diges-

can lead to

as stomach cramps, heartburn, and indigestion Remember, fasting does not necessitate doubling your portion sizes to compensate for missed meals It is advisable to stick to your usual portion sizes and

focus on consuming a nutritious meal This approach helps maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout your day A practical way to achieve this is by dividing your iftar into two segments: Begin with a light iftar at sunset, consisting of dates, water, and fresh juice Follow it with a complete iftar after the Maghrib prayer comprising protein carbohydrates fiber minerals and vitamins Hydration and Fluid Intake Water constitutes approximately 60 percent of the human body, highlighting its crucial role in maintaining overall health and functionality Adequate water intake is essential to sustain energy levels and ensure proper bodily functions throughout the day In addition to drinking water, consider integrating fluid-rich foods, like vegetables and fruits, to stay hydrated However avoid caffeinated beverages such as coffee and tea as well as sugary drinks which can have a diuretic effect and contribute to dehydration Work Up a Sweat Maintaining physical activity is essential during Ramadan, but it is important to avoid high-intensity training that can strain your body Instead opt for gentle exercises like yoga and walking which promote overall well-being without overwhelming your system In essence, Ramadan is not just a time for spiritual reflection; it is a chance for personal growth and renewal By making slight changes to our lifestyle and habits we can maximize the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of this sacred month Here's to a Ramadan filled with health, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment – may it be a springboard to a more disciplined and fulfilling life beyond its borders

Dr Reza Amiri said that with this both countries can be connected not only to regional trade especially Central Asia but also connect to European markets

He said that Pakistan and Iran can fulfill 70 percent of each other s needs by engaging in mutual trade, just as Iran imports halal meat, Pakistan can do a lot of work in Iran in this sector

The Iranian ambassador said that Iran is issuing electronic visas to Pakistan businessmen while making visas easier

He said that the relations between the business community of Pakistan and Iran, especially Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Tehran Chamber of Commerce and Industry should be further improved

Addressing to the forum President ICCI Ahsan Zafar Bakhatwri said that Pakistan and Iran s trade volume exceeds $2 5 billion annually, with Pakistan selling rice and other products to its neighbor, while people living in the border area of Balochistan save money by buying Iranian food and goods from traders across the border He said that as part of a five-year trade cooperation plan for 2023-2028, Pakistan and Iran aim to increase annual trade volume between the two countries to $5 billion Ahsan Zafar said that the two countries are also members of various regional and international fora such as the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Iran s forthcoming full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) further facilitates expanded interaction and collaboration between Pakistan and Iran He said that fostering deeper peopleto-people exchanges and cooperation in science and technology will be pivotal

FBR signs agreement with K arandaaz Pakistan for digitization of tax system

In line with the vision of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to transform Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) into a Digital Tax Administration FBR has entered into an agreement with Karandaaz Pakistan for the Digitalization of Tax System FBR has put considerable focus towards automation of its processes and digitalizing of the economy These initiatives reduce the cost of compliance of taxpayers document the economy expand the tax base and lead FBR on a sustainable path to revenue growth FBR will be collaborating with Karandaaz for developing a comprehensive digital strategy for realizing the digital transformation of FBR,its digitalization initiatives and their implementation Under this agreement Karandaaz Pakistan an impact investment platform that drives sustainable economic growth and strengthens financial and social protection systems for inclusion will assist FBR in assessment of the business needs, existing IT infrastructure and systems, and business processes to establish the context and scope for digitalizing the tax system of Pakistan using service oriented and tax payer centric use cases PR

Abdul Qayoom appointed as new CEO of Engro Polymer & Chemicals

g HE WILL TAKE NEW POSITION FROM APRIL 01, 2024

Sherry concerned about IMF’s involvement in Pakistan’s resource allocation

on Feb 26 The next day, an Islamabad district and sessions court had granted the FIA a fiveday physical remand of the journalist On March 6 the same lower court had extended Toor s physical remand for two days

Eventually on March 8, the court sent the journalist to jail on a 14-day judicial remand According to the FIR (first information report) Toor was booked under Sections 9 10 and 24 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), which deal with the offences of glorification of an offence cyber terrorism and cyberstalking

The FIR stated that Toor built a false narrative and publically launched a malicious/obnoxious and explicit campaign against “civil servants/government officials and state institutions”

Today a one-judge bench headed by IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq heard the case The petitioner Toor was represented by Advocate Hazir

The order, a copy of which is available with Dawn com, stated: “Keeping in view the urgency expressed by the learned counsel [ ] the trial court is directed to hear the bail application of the petitioner on March 16 2024

According to the order, IHC CJ also directed the FIA to appear

before the trial court with the relevant case record

The order noted that the trial court adjourned the bail proceedings filed before it without any justification or basis It added that the contents of the case were examined thoroughly with the petitioner ’s counsel’s assistance “The record shows that the petitioner had moved the bail application before the trial court in which the matter [ ] has been adjourned for March 18 2024 the order stated CPJ calls for Toor’s immediate, unconditional release Meanwhile the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) called on the authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Toor return his devices and cease his harassment in retaliation for his journalistic work

“The ongoing detention and investigation of journalist Asad

Ali Toor as well as authorities seizure of his devices and pressure to disclose his sources constitute an egregious violation of press freedom in Pakistan, said CPJ Asia Programme Coordinator

Beh Lih Yi Yi said the authorities must cease using the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and other draconian laws to persecute journalists and silence critical reporting and commentary

China lauds President Zardari’s statement acknowledging Xi’s contributions for shared communit y

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

President Asif Ali Zardari’s positive statement is commendable and his gratitude to Chinese President

Xi Jinping also shows that the relations between Pakistan and China are now at a high level Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Friday in Beijing In his letter, President Zardari had thanked President

Xi Jinping for extending warm congratulations on his re-election as the President of Pakistan Asif Zardari also expressed his commitment to working closely with the Chinese President to deepen practical cooperation strengthen the all-weather partnership, and foster a shared community for the benefit of the two countries “We commend President Zardari’s positive statement,” Wang Wenbin said during his regular briefing The spokesperson said that after President Zardari’s election President Xi Jinping expressed congratulations pointing out that the two countries are good neighbors friends partners and brothers The ironclad friendship is a historical choice and the treasures for the two peoples, he added Wang Wenbin said that President Zardari’s gratitude also shows that the countries’ relations are now at a high level

“We are ready to work with Pakistan to carry forward our traditional friendship and build a China Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era, he added While replying to President Xi s letter, President Zardari expressed his commitment to working closely with the Chinese President to deepen practical cooperation, strengthen the all-weather partnership and foster a shared community for the benefit of the two countries

In his congratulatory message to President Zardari on his election as President of Pakistan Xi expressed his readiness to work with President Zardari to carry forward the traditional friendship between China and Pakistan, advance practical cooperation in various fields, push for greater development of ChinaPakistan all weather cooperative partnership accelerate the building of an even closer ChinaPakistan community with a shared future in the new era so as to better benefit the two peoples

Donald Lu’s impending testimony on Pakistan elections not unusual, says US

ISLAMABAD A G E N C I E S

The US State Department has clarified that Assistant Secretary Donald Lu’s upcoming appearance before a Congress panel is a routine testimony that aligns with the regular practice of US officials providing updates to Congress The House Subcommittee on the Middle East Africa and Central Asia will hold a hearing titled Pakistan After the Elections: Examining the Future of Democracy in Pakistan and the US-Pakistan Relationship” on March 20

The hearing will also delve into the dynamics of USPakistan relations following the Feb 8 general elections The PTI and its leader Imran claim that Lu threatened to destabilize the PTI government during a March 2022 meeting with the then-Pakistani ambassador in Washington, Asad Majeed Khan This matter is often raised during US State Department news briefings by journalists from both Pakistan and the US The department consistently refutes these allegations as baseless

Bilawal forms committees to negotiate with political par ties for Senate elections

Lu the Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs is currently the only confirmed witness for the hearing, although additional witnesses may be included “Any number of State Department officials testify all the time before Congress We see it as an important part of our jobs to help Congress do its job both from a policymaking perspective and from an oversight perspective said State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller when asked about the scheduled hearing at a news briefing on Thursday So we always look forward both to the informal conversations we have with Congress, the formal conversations and of course the actual testimony that our officials provide ” he added When asked if the department was concerned about Lu s safety during the hearing due to previous threats Miller stated Of course we take any threats towards US officials seriously