Arrival o f Tru mp 2.0 may aggravate Sino -
However, he is also a pragmatist
gesture urging for a revival of diplomacy that recog-
What was behind the haste?
cannot alone bring about any change but it can set a direction for society Mofakkir Pakistan Allama Muhammad Iqbal also emphasized the importance of legislation as a vital tool for social progress, grounded in ethical principles and divine guidance He advocated for a flexible approach to law through ijtihad and urged societies to create laws that reflect justice equality and collective well-being Don t forget to follow the simple principle that "Hurry makes you worry", which is a reminder that rushing can create stress and anxiety Taking things more slowly allows for better decisions and less pressure It s often
THE arrival of a second Trump Administration is expected to drastically impact the complex fabric of Sino-US relations Apparently Beijing is acutely aware of what that could mean: heightened tensions and renewed confrontations on multiple fronts Sino-US relations, already frayed, may face an era marked by intensified scrutiny, as Trump’s rhetoric and policies often frame China as a strategic adversary rather than a partner in global stability This trajectory is not without grave implications The stakes here are monumental touching every corner of the global economy and the daily lives of billions Good relations between the USA and China mean shared prosperity, peace, and predictability Yet the current bipartisan unity in Washington- to approach China with a hawkish angle- suggests otherwise This unified American approach rare in such polarized times reflects the deepening shift in US policy a signal to Beijing that the Trump Administration may intensify this hardened stance, complicating any pathway toward constructive engagement During the recent presidential campaign, there was an intense rivalry between Democrats and Republicans to be seen as tough on China For many politicians on both sides of the divide a soft stance on China meant nearly a career-ending label China was often mentioned in the recent bruising election season For China, this campaign spotlight hints at potential for strategic adjustments in US policy despite the USA’s obvious trend toward toughness Trump s stance on China has been strikingly consistent in its bluntness: he casts China as the villain behind America s economic woes blaming US weakness for a perceived loss of manufacturing and blue-collar livelihoods In a renewed Trump era, Beijing could expect a focus on trade balances, economic rivalry, and security cooperation- areas where Trump believes his brand of deal-making shines He d likely avoid contentious topics like human rights which don t fit his transactional priorities Instead it s a style of diplomacy laser-focused on interests that directly impact the USA From China s perspective, this values-free pragmatism may offer clarity but little in the way of partnership or nuanced understanding - another reminder of the narrow lens through which he views the world Following Trump s return to the world stage President Xi Jinping extended a measured yet hopeful
nizes the delicate but essential link between the USA and China In his congratulatory message, Xi struck a careful balance, acknowledging the stakes of SinoUS relations and advocating for a practical collaboration “History has shown ” he remarked “that a stable sustainable China-US relationship aligns not only with our mutual interests but with those of the global community Xi s words reflected Beijing s ongoing drive to rebuild the trade bridge with Washington through a framework of mutual benefit - a win-win approach that has served as the foundation of past U S -China economic ties Amid heightened tensions particularly with the recent US and European tariff hikes on Chinese electric vehicles Xi s message was clear: China remains open to dialogue and cooperation, even as Washington adopts a more protectionist stance By extending this olive branch, Xi signals a willingness to work with the Trump Administration to find common ground and to ease the strains of an escalating trade war a nod to the potential for a pragmatic coexistence despite the challenges ahead In his message to Donald Trump, Xi offered a pragmatic framework to steer Sino-US relations forward, proposing three guiding principles grounded in the notion that cooperation yields far greater benefits than confrontation for the world’s two largest economies Xi s proposal underscores the need for understanding each other s strategic motivations addressing sensitive issues such as Taiwan and the South China Sea responsibly, and leveraging shared strengths to drive economic growth With US-China relations at a historic low, Xi’s approach signals a pivot from the “show of strength” rhetoric that has dominated recent years urging Washington to prioritize common interests over zero-sum strategies Beijing appears committed to dialogue viewing it as essential for sustaining any productive relationship Notably, bilateral working groups between China and the USA have continued, a testament to the resilience of diplomatic channels even amid strained ties Through consistent open communication Xi suggests both nations could recognize that their roles as global stakeholders demand collaboration on issues such as climate change technological innovation and
e m p h a s i z e s c o e x i s t e n c e c o u l d m o v e t h e U S - C h i n a r e l a t i o n s h i p f o r w a r d i n a c o n s t r u c t i v e d i r e c t i o n - o n e t h a t b e n e f i t s n o t j u s t b o t h n a t i o n s , b u t t h e g l o b a l c o m m u n i t y D R I M R A N K H A L I D
i s t e n c e ” t h a t a c k n o w l e d g e s s h a r e d i n t e r e s t s . A f t e r y e a r s o f v o l a t i l i t y , a r e c a l i b r a t i o n t h a t
more effective to take a step back prioritize and approach tasks with a clear mind instead of hurrying There are more than two dozen national crises and issues which are seeking the priority of the government like price hike corruption injustice everywhere the worst law and order situation political instability inflation insecurity, indiscipline throughout Pakistan among others, but the government is very busy in smoggy legislation without deliberations The judicial system of Pakistan has almost collapsed and there is no sign of worry on the government and the main reason for the failure of the judicial system is low capacity of judges There is an urgent need to enhance the strength of judicial officers, judges and its infrastructure but the government, surprisingly, increased the strength of Supreme Court s judges beyond demand and judicial substance The sky is clear there are no clouds everything is okay and there is absolutely no issue of the Army Chief or his extension but the government hurriedly passed its amendments to enhance the tenure of the Army Chief beyond thoughts and necessity This shows the vulnerability and weakness of our political system where everything is being decided under the influence of guns by ignoring the significance of books and all these happening on the initial days after the appointment of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, creating so many questions
Why doesn t the Pakistani public think about it? As the famous scientist Albert Einstein once said that The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don’t do anything about it ” This suggests that failing to engage critically with the world or not thinking and acting can lead to harm Einstein valued curiosity and believed that not using one s intellect was a missed opportunity to understand and improve the world Governments or legislatures use the omnibus style to address a range of issues or enact complex policy changes efficiently By bundling multiple measures into one bill they can pass or amend laws in one vote rather than handling each provision individually However, this approach can be controversial, as it sometimes includes provisions that might not pass on their own merits Additionally omnibus bills are often lengthy and complex making them challenging for lawmakers and the public to scrutinize thoroughly A big mystery spreading everywhere which is not going to be resolved is whether we are passing through a martial law regime or this is multi-collaboration of democracy or some sort of corporate interaction
The writer is an Advocate Supreme Court of Pakistan Law Professor member International Bar Association and former Assistant Attorney General for Pakistan
A big mystery spreading everywhere which is not going to be resolved is whether we are passing through a martial law regime or this is multi-collaboration of democracy or some sort of corporate interaction
Chill of neglect
Breaking the silence
AKHtAR ALy KuResHy
Ttenure as Army Chief can have significant implications for both the military and the broader political landscape One of the main arguments in favor of a longer tenure for the Army Chief is that it offers greater stability and consistency in military leadership A prolonged term allows the Army Chief to implement long-term strategic initiatives, manage complex defense reforms, and ensure the military operates smoothly without the disruptions that frequent leadership transitions can cause A prolonged tenure for an army chief can be particularly critical during times of national security challenges or when the military is engaged in long-term operational commitments In countries dealing with external threats or internal instability, having continuity at the top of the military leadership helps ensure defense strategies remain consistent and that military operations proceed without disruption A longer tenure also enables the army chief to cultivate stronger relationships with political leaders, international allies, and military personnel, promoting trust and more effective collaboration In addition extended leadership can contribute to strengthening military institutions It provides the army chief with the opportunity to address structural issues implement necessary reforms, and enhance the professionalism of the armed forces Military reforms whether in modernization, training or operational readiness often require sustained leadership to achieve longterm goals An extended tenure allows for more comprehensive planning and the ability to follow through on these initiatives
Furthermore, longer terms provide the army chief with the time and authority to oversee the professional development of the officer corps resulting in a more competent and
A Significant Move towards Militar y Independence
skilled leadership team that is better equipped to address future challenges
The length of an army chief s tenure plays a key role in balancing military leadership, civilian oversight, and national defense While extended tenures can sometimes be viewed as a threat to democratic governance and civilian control there are cases where such extensions have positively impacted the independence and professionalism of the armed forces
In these instances, longer terms have allowed the military to stay focused on its primary mission defending the nation while maintaining political neutrality and upholding democratic institutions With the right safeguards in place extending the tenure of the army chief can enhance national security and contribute to democratic stability
One notable example is General Valery Gerasimov who has served as the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation since 2012 his long tenure has positively influenced the Russian military's ability to implement long-term strategies, improve readiness, and maintain a high level of professionalism Under his leadership the Russian military has modernized its doctrines shifting focus to hybrid warfare cyber capabilities and rapid-response forces
The continuity in leadership has allowed these complex reforms to be carried out smoothly, avoiding the disruption that might arise from frequent changes in command Moreover this extended leadership has enabled Gerasimov to build strong institutional relationships that facilitate better coordination across different branches of the military, ensuring that Russia s defense forces are well-prepared for a range of potential conflicts A longer tenure for the army chief also enables the military to establish and pursue long-term defense objectives especially when confronting emerging and evolving security threats
This strategic flexibility is essential for countries with global ambitions or those navigating complex geopolitical landscapes For Russia maintaining continuity in military leadership has been pivotal in shaping its defense strategy in regions like eastern europe the Middle east and beyond
Turkey offers a unique case study in the relationship between the army chief s tenure and military independence, particularly considering the country’s history of military
Is India disappearing under China?
Icoups and the significant role the military has historically played in politics While the Turkish military has traditionally been a dominant force in political affairs, recent reforms have sought to curtail its political influence and reinforce civilian oversight Despite these changes the extended terms of army chiefs have played a key role in preserving the professionalism and operational effectiveness of the military historically, long-serving army chiefs, such as General İlker Başbuğ (2008–2010), have played a key role in stabilizing Turkey’s defense institutions during periods of political and economic instability extended leadership tenures allowed these commanders to focus on modernizing Turkey s military and upholding the professionalism of the officer corps, even amid significant political challenges A longer tenure also enabled the army chief to retain control over the military’s internal affairs ensuring the force remained apolitical and centered on its core mission national defence while shielding it from undue political influence by civilian governments or political factions
In Turkey, where the military has traditionally wielded considerable political power the extension of army chiefs’ tenures in recent years has helped distance the armed forces from direct political involvement While civilian control is now more firmly established, the military s independence remains vital to ensuring that defense policy is driven by national security needs rather than short-term political considerations extended tenures for army chiefs in Turkey have enabled the military to resist efforts to politicize the armed forces allowing it to maintain its focus on its constitutional role of safeguarding the nation s security Similarly, Singapore known for its highly professional and disciplined military has experienced the benefits of longer tenures for its army chiefs The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is often regarded as one of the most modern and capable in Asia with the stability provided by long-serving army chiefs playing a significant role in its success The extended tenure of General Ng Chee Meng (2013–2016) allowed the SAF to implement modernization programs enhance training initiatives and build stronger regional defense partnerships This continuity in leadership has ensured that defense decisions are based on strategic, long-term needs, rather than short-term political considerations While Singapore’s political lead-
India and China are neighbors that for centuries have disagreed over cer tain stretches of their shared borders. Indian commentators now suggest the countries' shared tectonic plates are moving unfairly in China's favor
NDIA and China s relationship has repeatedly been tested by one central question: Where does our land begin and yours end? The border disagreement between the two nuclear powers has led to weaponized standoffs for decades Now, a video has stirred up passions in India again:
In a report for NDTV the Indian news broadcaster's Science editor Pallava Bagla explains in his words how India is losing land to China The reporter blames the laws of nature plate tectonics to be precise WHAT ARE PLATE TECTONICS?
The earth's crust is like a puzzle, constructed out of many pieces: There are a few gigantic oceanic plates and many smaller continental or "crustal" plates however scientists disagree over the exact number of the smaller plates These plates swim on the earth s inner molten mantle When magma from the planet s core bubbles up where there are cracks, the plates shift often a few centimeters in a year This natural phenomenon has happened for billions of years, and in fact, it is totally normal The plates either move apart, rub against each other or shove themselves under one another As a result the continents above also move in what is known as plate tectonics WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE INDIAN PLATE?
Fifty million years ago, the Indian plate rammed the eurasian plate, upon which China lies, with such a speed that it created a movement of about 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) per year Research into this his-
torical event led scientists at the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ), working with colleagues from India's National Geophysical Research Institute and Freie Universität Berlin in 2007 to dub the Indian continent the world s fastest Was it a cause for celebration? No The problem is that speed has its price
While the pushing and shoving by the Indian plate against the eurasian plate created the himalayas, the world s highest mountain range it also has caused regular hefty earthquakes in the region Perhaps even worse it s causing constant land loss for India The world s most populous nation has moved about 2 000 kilometers (1 243 miles) towards northern Asia in the millions of years since that historic collision The Indian plate moves about five centimeters per year towards the eurasian plate and, with that, 'under' China WILL INDIA EVENTUALLY DISAPPEAR?
If India continues to shove itself under the eurasian plate, the country will eventually disappear," said Sabrina Metzger a geophysicist at GFZ But Metzger also said the speed at which the Indian plate is bashing the eurasian plate will continue to reduce "That's how such collisions work," said Metzger, "at some point they stop Indeed the Indian plate was a lot faster millions of years ago So, no need to panic, said Metzger, adding that India could lose land for an entirely different reason namely because of rising sea levels And that would be cause for concern
Julia Vergin is the Senior editor and team lead for Science This article was originally published in German
ership is closely involved in military affairs the independence of the military is respected, with long-serving army chiefs overseeing the force’s professionalization and modernization South Korea’s security environment shaped by its proximity to North Korea underscores the importance of stability in military leadership The extended tenure of figures such as General Ahn Byung-seok (2014–2016) in the Republic of Korea Army has provided consistent leadership during a period of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula A longer tenure for the army chief has allowed for greater continuity in defense planning ensuring the successful implementation of South Korea s military strategy In such a volatile geopolitical context, ensuring that the army chief can oversee long-term defense initiatives such as missile defense systems joint military exercises with allies like the USA and modernization efforts is crucial for maintaining the South Korean military s operational readiness Although South Korea has faced periods of political instability, the extended tenures of army chiefs have played a crucial role in ensuring the military stays focused on its core defense mission and operates independently of political interference In South Korea the army chief is a professional military leader whose primary responsibility is national defense, which helps safeguard the military’s autonomy from the fluctuating currents of political change There are several instances where longer tenures for army chiefs have positively impacted the independence and effectiveness of the armed forces In countries such as Russia, Turkey, Singapore, and South Korea, extended tenures for military leaders have provided stability and professionalism, enabling them to implement long-term reforms and keep the military focused on national security rather than political issues In this context Pakistan has also decided
Nestlé and Coc a- Cola, a high- oc tane divorce
The divorce poses a curious legal battle, because while Nestea is owned by Nestlé, the drink’s formula belongs to Coca-Cola Conflict seems inevitable
The problem is that there is no way to register the taste of a beverage, just as it’s impossible to register odors
IF you drink Nestea and live in Spain you can breathe easy: the famous brew will not disappear from the Spanish market The rumor spread a few months ago when it became known that the Swiss multinational Nestlé owner of the famous iced tea brand would break ties with Coca-Cola its distributor in Spain since 1993 Now Coca-Cola
Enhancement of Ser vices Chiefs' Tenure
R U M P E X P E C T E D T O TA P M A R C O
U B I O F O R S E C R ETA R Y O F S TAT E
DTrump appoints Lee Zeldin to lead EPA
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change Liu Zhenmin has emphasized the importance of both developed and developing countries working together to address climate change In this regard China is committed to collaborating with the European Union (EU) and other global partners to advance the implementation of the Paris Agreement, he said Liu made these remarks in an interview with Xinhua ahead of his departure to Baku, Azerbaijan, where he will attend the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) Financial support and responsibilities: Liu called on developed countries to take the lead in providing financial assistance to developing nations helping them tackle the challenges posed by climate change He emphasized that this is not only a moral imperative but also an obligation outlined in the Paris Agreement
At the 2009 UN climate conference in Copenhagen, developed countries committed to providing $100 billion annually to support developing nations in their energy transitions However this promise
has not yet been fully honored
This funding is modest compared to the vast resources needed for the global energy transition, but it has served as a demonstration of effective global cooperation Liu said He added that this financial support could play a crucial role in mobilizing international market funds and attracting private investment As COP29 will focus on setting global climate finance targets beyond 2025 Liu acknowledged that it may be challenging to reach consensus on these issues EU’s position and internal challenges: In October, the Council of the EU announced it had reached a
consensus on its negotiating position for COP29, supporting a new collective, quantified global climate finance goal However, the statement did not outline specific responsibilities for the EU itself Instead it urged all countries including emerging economies to assume a greater share of financial responsibility While the EU has been relatively proactive in supporting climate finance for developing nations over the past decade Liu noted that the bloc now faces some internal challenges Recent elections in the European Parliament and various EU member states have shown a decline in political enthusiasm for climate action among some parties
4th day of a jok a dostI Int’l
Bahria University College of Medicine at Islamabad, highlighting it as a significant step toward enhancing medical education in the country He commended the tireless efforts of the management that have contributed to this achievement emphasizing the importance of quality education in shaping future healthcare professionals Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf NI(M), T Bt, praised Bahria University for launching new programmes in Engineering and Social Sciences which aligns with contemporary demands and reflects the university's commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience He expressed particular delight for Bahria University s position for growing number of international students, underscoring its growing reputation as a hub for diverse educational opportunities ch salik vows to enhance cooperation with Ilo at tripar tite labour conference
R T Representatives from government employers and workers organizations unanimously endorsed a resolution aimed at addressing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) gaps and strengthening OSH standards for safer, healthier workplaces across the country The two-day National Tripartite Labour Conference held after 15 years concluded today with a pledge to improve governance structures to strengthen OSH especially in high-risk sectors The closing event was attended by Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, along with representatives from ILO, employers’ and workers’ organizations and development partner organisations The landmark conference convened by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (MOPHRD) with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO)
As per sources under Mr Riaz’s leadership the DGPC has encountered unprecedented challenges Key regulatory frameworks, including critical thirdparty gas sales regulations, have stagnated This lack of progress has left private sector stakeholders questioning whether Riaz has the capability or willingness to implement policies crucial to revitalizing the sector Officers within the DGPC frustrated by the disarray are reportedly considering their exits due to the lack of leadership vision and stability
One of the most controversial moves during Riaz Ali’s time as acting DGPC was his alleged attempt to bring in employees from external companies a decision criticized by insiders as presenting a potential conflict of interest
In addition, Riaz s health marked by a recent heart attack, reportedly due to the
demands of the role has raised further concerns While sources acknowledge sympathy for his situation, his health has also added to the uncertainty within DGPC fueling worries about his ability to handle the role s requirements effectively The industry sources contrasted Riaz s tenure with that of his predecessor, Kashif Ali, who served as DGPC from January 2022 to August 2024 One of the most controversial decisions made under Riaz’s watch was Riaz attempted to bring employees from external companies into the DGPC a decision met with immediate backlash over its apparent conflict of interest In addition, Riaz s personal health crisis a heart attack reportedly brought on by the intense demands of his role While there is sympathy for his situation his health struggles have added to the instability within the DGPC Managing such a critical regulatory body requires robust leadership, and concerns about his ability to meet the demands of the position are growing In contrast according to sources Riaz s predecessor Kashif Ali delivered tangible results during his tenure from January 2022 to June 2024 Kashif s achievements include 34 oil and gas discoveries, which added 376 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) of indigenous gas
The
government, calling the Chief Minister a “TikToker” who left citizens to grapple with the smog while opting for treatment abroad
The rulers imposed through Form-47 remain indifferent to pub-
lic suffering,” the spokesperson alleged, highlighting the worsening smog crisis and lack of effective action to address it The PTI accused the Sharif family of hypocrisy claiming they exploit public resources for personal comfort while expecting sacrifices from the nation “This is yet another instance of their disregard for the people,” the spokesperson stated, pointing to the family’s alleged history of fleeing accountability and stashing wealth abroad The party called on the nation to hold the Sharif family accountable for their actions, asserting that those responsible for the country s economic and environmental crises must face justice
N D M A wa r n s o f wo r s e n i n g
s m o g a c ro s s Pa k i s t a n
The
In Punjab, significant smog and fog conditions are expected in cities including Lahore Sialkot Faisalabad and Rahim Yar Khan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions such as Peshawar, Mardan, and Kohat, and parts of Sindh like Sukkur and Kashmore are also forecasted to experience similar conditions Balochistan’s hilly areas are likely to face dry and cold weather during the mornings and nights
The NDMA is closely monitoring air quality and coordinating with authorities to manage the worsening smog situation caused by seasonal weather patterns and high pollution levels
