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RUSSIA-PAKISTAN IN TALKS ABOUT POTENTIAL OIL AGREEMENT: AURANGZEB
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Wednesday, 17 December, 2025 | 25 Jamadiul Sani, 1447
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FINANCE MINISTER AURANGZEB SAYS PAKISTAN, RUSSIA EXPLORING CONSTRUCTION OF ANOTHER STEEL PLANT
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Rs 20.00 | Vol XVI No 162 | 8 Pages | Islamabad Edition
RUSSIA ALSO DISCUSSES UPGRADING A REFINERY IN PAKISTAN WITH HELP FROM RUSSIAN COMPANIES
pakistan, Russia sign second protocol to revive pakistan Steel Mills PROFIT
Monitoring Desk
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Monitoring Desk
USSIA and Pakistan are in talks on a potential oil-sector agreement, Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb told Russia’s RIA news agency in remarks published on Tuesday. “All of these areas are Russia’s strengths. And we would be very happy if Russia agreed on an agreement in this sector with Pakistan,” Aurangzeb told RIA in an interview when asked about wider cooperation in exploration, production and refining between the two countries. “At present, the issue is being discussed by the energy ministries of both sides.” According to Reuters, Russia also discussed upgrading a refinery in Pakistan with Russian companies involved, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev had said in November. Pakistan has stepped up engagement with Russia in recent years as Moscow
sought new energy markets after Western sanctions over Ukraine, and Islamabad looked to lower import costs. Pakistan began buying Russian crude in 2023. The development of a refinery in Pakistan and broader energy sector cooperation are also key focuses of the bilateral talks. Aurangzeb also said Russia and Pakistan are looking into building another steel plant in Pakistan, RIA reported. Pakistan is adamant on intensifying its energy and minerals collaboration with Russia, including exploring joint ventures in exploration, production, and refining, following recent discussions at the 14th St. Petersburg International Gas Forum (SPIGF) 2025. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted these initiatives in his interview. At the SPIGF, held from October 710, Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik represented Pakistan, outlining the country’s energy reforms and investor-friendly policies. Malik emphasized Pakistan’s efforts to diversify its energy
IHC dismisses two objections raised by Justice Tariq Jahangiri in ongoing degree case ISLAMABAD
staff CorresponDent
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Tuesday dismissed two objections raised by Justice Tariq Jahangiri in the ongoing degree case. A four-page written order issued by a division bench headed by Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar rejected Justice Jahangiri’s objection regarding the formation of a twomember bench instead of a single-judge bench. IHC stated that serious allegations had been made against a sitting judge concerning degree authenticity. Considering the sensitivity of the matter, the formation of a two-member bench fell within the administrative powers of the Chief Justice, the order added. The court emphasized that forming a special bench is not unprecedented, and Justice Jahangiri’s claim of bias against the Chief Justice lacks any legal justification. Appeals by Justice Jahangiri and other judges regarding transfers of the Chief Justice had previously been dismissed by the Federal Shariat Court.
Pakistan and Russia have signed the second protocol under the Pakistan-Russia Inter-Government Commission (IGC) to advance the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) and agreed to prepare a bankable Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) framework to take the process forward, Business Recorder reported, citing official sources. The decision was taken during the 10th meeting of the IGC held in late November 2025, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Industries and Production and representatives of the Russian government. The meeting agreed on preparing a bankable feasibility study for the revival of the loss-making steel mill. The government has decided not to operate PSM and will proceed with its privatisation. Local and international steel companies will be facilitated to acquire the mill, and an expression of interest is expected to be issued in the coming weeks once the feasibility work is completed. At Pakistan’s request, Russia has presented two technical options for reviving the mill. The first is based on a blast furnace model with an estimated
sector and attract international investments to ensure long-term sustainability. The SPIGF event, attended by over 30,000 participants from 50 countries,
cost of $1.91 billion, while the second proposes construction of a new facility using Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology at a cost of about $1.05 billion. Pakistan has estimated iron ore reserves of around 1.887 billion tonnes, yet continues to import nearly $6 billion worth of iron, steel, and scrap annually. Officials said domestic steel production remains below demand, with the supply gap estimated at 3.1 million tonnes last year. The Ministry of Industries and Production is also working with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs on a separate plan to revive PSM through a maritime-industrial partnership centred at Port Qasim. Under the plan, the facility would be converted into a ship recycling and repair complex with a floating dock capable of handling Aframax-class vessels. Steel recovered from dismantled ships would either be supplied to PSM or processed at a nearby facility into industrial-grade steel. Officials said the project could reduce steel imports by up to 20 percent, potentially saving more than $13 billion over the next decade. According to a World Bank report, Pakistan currently imports around $6 billion worth of steel annually, with demand projected to grow by nearly 6 percent per year through 2035.
focused on natural gas development, exploration technologies, and sustainable energy systems.
Continued on page 03
All abducted bus passengers recovered after joint operation near Ghotki: DIG GHOTKI
staff CorresponDent
All 20 passengers abducted by dacoits from a bus near Ubauro in Sindh’s Ghotki district have been recovered unharmed, Sukkur Range Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Captain (retired) Faisal Abdullah Chachar said on Tuesday. The abduction took place on Monday night when around 25 armed dacoits attacked a passenger bus in the Sadiqabad area, injuring the driver and kidnapping several passengers. DIG Chachar told the media that he reached Ghotki and personally led a large joint operation involving police contingents from Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur and Kashmore, along with personnel from the Rangers. The operation was carried out under his command alongside senior officers, including Ghotki SSP Muhammad Anwar Khetran, Sukkur SSP Azhar Khan Mughal and Khairpur SSP Samiullah Soomro. “We rescued all the hostages unharmed after engaging the dacoits in a gunfight,” the DIG said, adding that police had swiftly blocked all routes leading to the Katcha area, preventing the attackers from taking the hostages deeper into the riverine belt. The recovered passengers later informed police that two dacoits were injured during the operation. Meanwhile, a police constable sustained injuries to his hand during the exchange of fire and was shifted to Rahim Yar Khan Hospital for treatment. A police spokesperson said a search operation against the dacoits was still under way. The Rahim Yar Khan district police officer clarified that the passengers were not abducted from his jurisdiction but from a section of a link road passing through Guddu in Sindh. “Sindh police have recovered all the hostages from the armed dacoits,” he said. Earlier, Mirpur Mathelo Deputy Superintendent of Police Abdul Qadir Soomro told media that 14 passengers had initially been recovered. He added that one hostage later died of a heart attack in a sugarcane field, while two others were shifted to hospital for medical treatment. The deceased’s body was moved to Ubauro Hospital. An earlier statement by DIG Chachar had said that 10 kidnapped passengers were rescued during an initial overnight operation. The attack According to videos circulated on social media after 9:30pm on Monday, a passenger said a Sadabahar Company coach had departed for Quetta from Sadiqabad at around 8pm. Near the Murid Shaikh area close to the M-5 Motorway, the bus turned towards Guddu at the Punjab-Sindh border.
Lawmakers hail security forces’ sacrifices on apS anniversary RAWALPINDI
staff report
On the 11th anniversary of the Army Public School tragedy, parliamentarians paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies, saying their sacrifices were central to defeating terrorism, restoring stability and safeguarding national security. Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said the December 16 attack united the nation with a shared resolve against extremism. He said Pakistan’s armed forces played a decisive role in dismantling terrorist networks and improving the country’s security landscape. The sacrifices of the martyrs, he added, remain a reminder of the need for steadfast resistance against terrorism. Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Danyal Chaudhry said the APS attack was not merely an assault on a school but a direct strike against humanity, peace and education. He praised the swift and courageous response of the armed forces, saying their professionalism and commitment earned
them national and international recognition in preserving peace. MNA Malik Abrar Ahmad said the blood of the martyrs strengthened the country’s defence and reinforced national unity. He said the armed forces made an indelible contribution to the fight against terrorism, adding that December 16 symbolises collective patience, sacrifice and resolve. Engineer Qamar-ul-Islam Raja, MNA, said the martyrdom of innocent children plunged the entire nation into grief. He noted that despite immense challenges, the Pakistan Army and security institutions continued to uphold peace and stability across the country. MPAs Malik Iftikhar Ahmad and Malik Mansoor Afsar highlighted the unity displayed by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and the public during the war on terror. They said the consistent support of security forces was essential in eliminating terrorism and protecting the country from internal and external threats. Chaudhry Naeem Ijaz, MPA, said December 16 proved that the nation could not be divided by violence. He said
on apS attack anniversary, pM vows to continue relentless operation against terrorism ISLAMABAD
staff report
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday paying tribute to the martyrs of the Army Public School Peshawar tragedy, reiterated his government’s resolve to maintain an uncompromising zero-tolerance stance on terrorism and continue relentless and full force antiterror operations till the elimination of the scourge in toto. The prime minister, in his message on the APS attack anniversary, said that the great sacrifices rendered for Pakistan’s bright future would never go in vain as the state, security institutions, and the people stood united and determined to eliminate terrorism and extremism.
the armed forces defeated terrorists through determination and sacrifice,
“Today, we pay tribute to the martyrs of the Army Public School Peshawar tragedy, who sacrificed their precious lives for the future of our beloved homeland. This heart-wrenching incident was a great ordeal for the entire nation, which deeply saddened us but failed to break our resolve,” he remarked. He said that the sacrifices of the innocent children, teachers, and staff of APS would always remain etched in the national conscience and only the elimination of terrorism from the country would be the meaningful justice for this heinous tragedy. The prime minister said that the entire nation shared the grief of the martyrs' bereaved families, and saluted their patience and resilience.
adding that the struggle would continue until terrorism is fully eradicated.
02 NEWS
Wednesday, 17 December, 2025 | ISLAMABAD
CARGO TRANSPORTERS’ STRIKE DISRUPTS SUPPLY CHAINS AS KARACHI INDUSTRIES FACE SHUTDOWN RISK
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PVMA SAYS EDIBLE OIL, GHEE SUPPLIES DISRUPTED AS TRANSPORT OF INDUSTRIAL RAW MATERIALS STALLS PROFIT
staff report
USINESS groups and trade bodies have warned that economic activity in Karachi and across Sindh could come to a halt as a nine-day-old cargo transporters’ strike continues to disrupt the movement of goods and industrial supplies, urging the Sindh government to intervene over its impact on industrial production, port operations, and supply chains. The transporters’ protests began after the enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025 on December 8, which intro-
duced higher fines, stricter penalties, vehicle impoundment, and FIRs against drivers and operators. Transport unions say the ordinance was implemented without adequate consultation and has made routine operations financially unviable. In a letter to the Sindh chief minister, Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) Secretary General Abdul Aleem said the situation posed a serious challenge for industry and commerce. He said the issue was raised with the chief secretaries of Punjab and Sindh on December 12, but relief was seen only in parts of Punjab, while conditions in Sindh remained unchanged.
OICCI secretary general said trucks from Punjab were still unable to enter Karachi, adding that both inbound and outbound port operations continued to face restrictions. He warned that several manufacturing units were at risk of shutting down due to disruptions in raw material supply. According to OICCI, at least one member reported production lines being shut down, while others expected closures within days as essential inputs and finished goods remained stranded on highways. Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association said supplies of edible oil, ghee, and other essential commodities had been affected, while transportation of industrial raw
materials had largely come to a standstill. The association warned that prolonged suspension of raw material movement could halt production and deepen economic losses. It added that imported consignments were stuck at ports, exposing businesses to financial losses due to demurrage and detention charges. Pakistan Association of Large Steel Producers General Secretary Wajid Bukhari said the strike had significantly disrupted industrial output and supply chains, warning that prolonged stoppages could lead to layoffs, wage losses, and damage to the country’s industrial credibility. Major transport bodies, including the All
SBP expects foreign reserves to hit $17.8b by June next year g
FOREIGN EXCHANGE RESERVES CROSS $15.8BN, EXCEED DECEMBER TARGET AFTER IMF INFLOWS PROFIT
staff report
Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) have exceeded the December 2025 level, rising above $15.8 billion after the receipt of $1.2 billion from the IMF under the Extended Fund Facility and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility and continued purchases from the foreign exchange market. In an analyst briefing following the Monetary Policy Committee meeting, the SBP Governor Jameel Ahmed said reserves had crossed the targeted level of $15.5 billion by December 2025 despite
subdued net financing inflows. Looking ahead, the SBP expects its reserves to increase further to $17.8 billion by June 2026, assuming the timely realisation of planned official inflows during the second half of the fiscal year. The SBP governor said that government inflows are expected to strengthen between January and June FY26. As of December 12, official inflows amounted to $2.1 billion, including the IMF disbursement. He said the remaining planned inflows are projected to be realised over the coming months. On the external account, the governor said Pakistan’s total debt repayments for FY26 are estimated at $25.8 billion, of
which $9.7 billion has already been paid or rolled over. The remaining net repayments for the rest of the fiscal year stand at $6.9 billion, excluding any future rollovers. According to Topline Research, the SBP governor noted that foreign exchange interventions remained relatively low during the first two months of FY26 but increased in subsequent months, approaching the average level seen last year. The Monetary Policy Statement showed that broad money (M2) growth accelerated to 14.9 percent as of November 28, driven mainly by higher net budgetary borrowing from the banking
system. Private sector credit increased by Rs187 billion during July–November, led by borrowing from sectors such as textiles, wholesale and retail trade, and chemicals. Consumer financing, particularly auto loans, remained firm amid easing financial conditions, improved sentiment and macroeconomic stability. On a yearon-year basis, however, private sector credit declined by 0.3 percent due to a high base effect linked to unusually strong credit growth in the second quarter of FY25. On the liability side, currency in circulation remained broadly stable, while higher deposit growth resulted in a moderate decline in the currency-to-deposit ratio.
Oilboy Energy redirects Rs250m right issue funds to fuel trading, logistics Dawood Lawrencepur approves merger of DH Partners, Cyan under share-swap scheme Merger sets swap ratios of 4.7724 DLL shares per 100 DHPL shares and 7.2974 per 100 Cyan shares, subject to regulatory and court approval PROFIT
staff report
Dawood Lawrencepur Limited (DLL) has approved the amalgamation of DH Partners Limited and Cyan Limited with and into the company through a Scheme of Arrangement, the company disclosed to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday. According to the disclosure, the DLL board approved the proposed amalgamation at its meeting held on December 15, 2025, under Sections 279 to 283 of the Companies Act, 2017. Under the scheme, DLL will issue shares to shareholders of DH Partners Limited, other than DLL itself, and to shareholders of Cyan Limited based on approved swap ratios. DLL said shareholders of DH Partners Limited will receive 4.7724 ordinary shares of DLL for every 100 ordinary shares held, while shareholders of Cyan Limited will receive 7.2974 ordinary shares of DLL for every 100 ordinary shares. The company said the swap ratios were determined based on audited special purpose financial statements of DLL, Cyan and DH Partners for the period ended October 31, 2025, valuations of immovable properties conducted by independent valuers, and calculations carried out by an independent financial advisor jointly appointed by the companies. According to the disclosure, the proposed amalgamation aims to consolidate entities engaged in similar business activities into a single listed platform. DLL said the move is expected to align overlapping business models, strengthen the balance sheet through a larger equity base and diversified assets, and improve borrowing capacity and financial resilience. The company said integration of governance systems and decision-making processes is expected to streamline oversight and reduce administrative and regulatory costs, while consolidation of investment holdings is expected to support more effective capital allocation and broaden the shareholder base.
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COMPANY RECEIVES SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL TO REVISE THE UTILIZATION OF FUNDS PROFIT
staff report
Oilboy Energy Limited has received shareholder approval to revise the utilisation of funds raised through its Rs250 million right issue, according to a notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday. The company informed the exchange that shareholders passed the resolution at an extraordinary general meeting held on December 16, 2025, in line with PSX regulations and the Companies Act, 2017. Under the approved resolution, Oilboy Energy has changed the purpose of funds raised through the 100% right issue of 25 million ordinary shares of Rs10 each.
The proceeds were initially earmarked for a waste-toenergy project titled “Bio-Oil from Pyrolysis—Waste to Energy through Fast Pyrolysis.” The company said the funds have now been utilised for expansion of its trading business in coal, LPG, and allied fuel products, enhancement of storage, logistics, and supply chain infrastructure, and strengthening of working capital and related operating assets. Shareholders also authorised the chief executive officer to undertake all necessary actions, execute documentation, and complete statutory and regulatory filings required to implement the resolution, subject to approvals from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistan Stock Exchange.
Business groups demand single-digit interest rates after SBP’s modest cut g
INDUSTRY BODIES SAY MODEST CUT FAILS TO EASE BORROWING COSTS, CALL FOR SINGLE-DIGIT RATES PROFIT
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Business groups have expressed dissatisfaction after the modest interest rate cut by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), saying the reduction falls short of what is needed to support economic activity. On Monday, the central bank slashed the policy rate by 50 basis points to 10.5%, defying widespread market expectations of a status quo. Industry representatives said the rate cut provides limited relief to businesses facing high production costs, elevated energy tariffs, and tight financing conditions. Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Faheem-urRehman Saigol said that the SBP’s decision to cut the policy rate by 50 basis points was a positive step that could support economic activity. He added that, given current conditions, bringing the interest rate into single digits has become essential. Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Muhammad Rehan Hanif said the
decision was insufficient to restore business confidence or support economic recovery. He pointed out that borrowing costs in Pakistan remain high compared to regional economies, despite easing inflation. He said countries such as China, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka operate with single-digit interest rates, enabling industries to access cheaper financing and remain competitive. He added that domestic businesses continue to face pressure from fuel prices, taxation, exchange rate volatility, and regulatory costs. Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) President Muhammad Ikram Rajput also criticised the SBP’s move, saying it did not align with long-standing demands from the business community. He said reducing the policy rate to single digits was necessary to revive industrial activity and encourage investment. Rajput said high interest rates undermine export competitiveness and discourage both new industrial investment and expansion of existing units, adding that small and medium-
Pakistan allows kinnow, potato exports to Commonwealth of Independent States via Iran land route PROFIT
staff report
Pakistan has allowed the export of kinnow and potatoes to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) through the Iran land route after granting a one-time exemption from the requirement of financial instruments, as reported by Business Recorder. The Commonwealth of Independent States includes Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, and Tajikistan.
According to information shared with the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Commerce, exports through the land route began on December 5, 2025. Between December 5 and December 8, a total of 139 trucks of kinnow and 32 trucks of potatoes crossed the Taftan border for onward movement to CIS countries. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), in a letter to the Ministry of Commerce dated December 5, advised that the federal government may consider granting a
one-time exemption from the requirement of financial instruments for exports of kinnow and potatoes to CIS countries via Iran, subject to specific conditions. SBP said the exemption would be valid only for the current export season and would not be treated as a precedent. It also advised the Ministry of Commerce to prescribe a mechanism to ensure repatriation of export proceeds into Pakistan in line with Section 12(1) of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947, and to ensure adequate safeguards related to international sanctions for transac-
sized enterprises are particularly affected by elevated borrowing costs. SITE Association of Industry (SAI) President Ahmed Azeem Alvi echoed similar concerns, warning that persistently high interest rates risk slowing industrial activity and employment growth. He called for single-digit rates and supportive policies to avoid further pressure on industry. From a market perspective, JS Global Research Head Waqas Ghani Kukaswadia said the SBP’s decision reflected a cautious approach aimed at supporting growth while managing inflation and external account risks. He noted that the rate cut, though limited, signals some flexibility and could support near-term investor sentiment. Business groups, however, maintained that a modest reduction would not address structural challenges facing the economy. Industry representatives said stronger action on borrowing costs is needed to support investment, exports, and employment growth, and urged the government and SBP to move toward single-digit interest rates.
tions routed through Iran. The exemption allows exporters to ship kinnow and potatoes to CIS member states via the land route without submission of financial instruments for the current season. The mechanism for monitoring repatriation of export proceeds will be notified separately. The Ministry of Commerce said a senior-level meeting was held on December 4, 2025, attended by the secretary commerce, secretary national food security and research, deputy governor SBP, minister of state for finance, member customs (operations) FBR, representatives of the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Pakistan Fruits and Vegetables Exporters Association, and other stakeholders.
Pakistan Transport Federation, have announced a nationwide wheel-jam strike on December 19, warning that goods and passenger transport will remain suspended unless disputed provisions of the ordinance are revised.
Bank deposits rise 13.6% to Rs35.38tr in November as lending slows SBP data shows advances down 9.8% YoY, investments climb to Rs36.73tr PROFIT
staff report
Deposits held by commercial banks rose to Rs35.38 trillion in November, marking a year-onyear increase of 13.6%, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).On a month-on-month basis, deposits grew by 0.7%. Analysts attributed the YoY increase to stronger remittance inflows and a gradual shift toward formal savings as inflation eased. Topline Securities said it expects deposit growth to accelerate to 16–18% in 2025, compared with last year, noting that deposit mobilisation in the previous year was affected by taxation linked to the advance-to-deposit ratio (ADR). SBP data showed that banking sector advances declined to Rs13.421 trillion in November, down 9.8% from a year earlier, although they increased by 1.1% compared to October. The ADR fell to 37.9% in November from 47.8% in the same month last year and was marginally higher than 37.8% recorded in October. Analysts said the year-on-year contraction in private sector credit reflected a temporary spike in lending during the fourth quarter of 2024, driven by ADR-related tax considerations. They added that the month-on-month increase indicates a gradual recovery in private sector borrowing, supported by improving economic conditions and lower interest rates. In contrast, bank investments rose sharply to Rs36.732 trillion in November, showing a 26.5% increase from a year earlier and a 0.5% rise from the previous month. The investment-to-deposit ratio climbed by 1,062 basis points year-on-year to 103.8%, although it edged down by 15 basis points compared to October.
Richest 10% of Pakistanis capture 42% of national income: report World Inequality Report 2026 says inequality in Pakistan remains high, with top 10% holding 59% of total wealth, top 1% controlling 24%, while bottom 50% account for 19% PROFIT
staff report
Inequality in Pakistan remains high with only marginal improvement over the past decade, as the top 10% of earners continue to capture a disproportionate share of income and wealth, according to the World Inequality Report 2026 released by the World Inequality Lab. The report shows that the richest 10% of Pakistanis receive 42% of total national income, while the bottom 50% account for just 19%. Wealth concentration is even sharper, with the top 10% holding 59% of total wealth and the top 1% alone controlling 24%. The World Inequality Lab, a global research centre hosted primarily at the Paris School of Economics, noted that Pakistan’s average income per capita stands at about 4,200 euros in purchasing power parity terms, while average wealth is estimated at 15,700 euros. According to the findings, the income gap between the top 10% and the bottom half narrowed only slightly over the past decade, declining from 22.0 in 2014 to 21.4 in 2024, indicating limited progress in reducing inequality. The report also highlighted setbacks in gender inclusion, with female labour force participation falling from 9.8% to 8.5%, underscoring persistent disparities in access to economic opportunities. Globally, the report said inequality remains extremely high, with the top 10% of income earners worldwide receiving more than the remaining 90% combined, while the poorest half of the global population captures less than 10% of total income. Wealth concentration at the global level is even more pronounced, as the top 10% own around 75% of global wealth and the bottom half just 2%. The report noted that the wealthiest 0.001%—fewer than 60,000 individuals—now control more wealth than half of humanity combined. According to the report, the share of wealth held by this ultra-rich group has increased from nearly 4% in 1995 to more than 6% today. Since the 1990s, the wealth of billionaires and centi-millionaires has grown at about 8% annually, nearly double the growth rate experienced by the bottom half of the global population. The findings point to a pattern in which income and wealth concentration continues to deepen both globally and in Pakistan, with only limited shifts in distribution and persistent structural gaps across income levels and gender.
wednesday, 17 December, 2025 | IsLAMABAD
FEDERAL GOVT NOTIFIES EIGHT COMMITTEES TO SHAPE 11TH NFC AWARD AMID SINDH OBJECTIONS
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CoMMittees set up on debt utilisation, divisible pool taxes, vertiCal transfers, inter-provinCial distribution, tax-to-gdp ratio, straigHt transfers, fata Merger, and sHaring of federal expenditures in provinCial subjeCts PROFIT
staff report
HE federal government has notified eight committees under the National Finance Commission (NFC) to work on key issues for the 11th NFC award, following a legal opinion from the attorney general supporting the Centre against Sindh’s objections, The Express Tribune reported. The Ministry of Finance constituted the committees to address issues including debt utilisation, sharing of federal expenditures incurred in provincial subjects, tax composition of the divisible pool, and distribution of resources between the federation and provinces. A working group headed by Punjab’s
finance minister has been tasked with making recommendations on sharing federal expenditures in areas that fall under provincial jurisdiction. The group was formed after the attorney general opined that such matters fall within the NFC’s scope, rejecting Sindh’s contention. Another working group, headed by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, will review the composition of taxes included in the divisible pool. Sources said the federal government is seeking to exclude customs duties from the pool shared among the five governments. A separate committee will examine vertical transfers between the Centre and provinces. At present, provinces receive 57.5% of the divisible pool. In the last fiscal year, the federal government collected
over Rs1.2 trillion through the petroleum levy, while provinces generated a combined cash surplus of Rs921 billion to meet IMF programme conditions. A working group led by the Balochistan finance minister will recommend how resources are distributed among the four provinces. Currently, more than 82% of inter-provincial distribution is based on population. The finance ministry has also notified a committee to propose measures to improve the tax-to-GDP ratio, which will be chaired by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa finance minister. Another group, headed by the Sindh finance minister, will examine straight transfers of resources to provinces. A seventh working group, also led by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa finance minister,
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The government has set out plans to expand private sector participation in wheat procurement, storage, and trading under the Interim National Wheat Policy 2025–26, while aiming to reduce fiscal and quasi-fiscal costs linked to wheat management and allow freer competition in the domestic wheat market.
The first meeting of the National Wheat Oversight Committee, constituted under the Interim National Wheat Policy 2025–26, was held on Monday with Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, in the chair. The meeting was attended by provincial and regional secretaries of food and agriculture, along with senior officials from relevant departments. The session focused on the objectives and implementation framework of the
National Savings announces Rs200 prize bond draw results PROFIT
staff report
The National Savings Centre in Lahore has announced the results of the Rs200 prize bond draw number 104, awarding the first prize of Rs750,000 to bond number 758760. According to the announced results, five bondholders won the second prize of Rs250,000 each. The winning bond numbers are 033045, 487574, 694350, 837177, and 877428. Earlier this month, the Central Directorate of National Savings conducted the Rs40,000 premium prize bond draw on December 10, 2025, which marked the final premium prize bond draw of the year. Prize bonds, issued by the State Bank of Pakistan, continue to be a popular investment option, offering cash rewards to bondholders.
Interim National Wheat Policy 2025–26. During the meeting, the Federal Minister highlighted the strategic importance of wheat in meeting the country’s food requirements and emphasised the need to increase wheat cultivation to ensure national food security. Detailed deliberations were held on the procurement mechanism for the upcoming wheat crop in line with the policy’s objectives. The Interim National Wheat Policy 2025–26 aims to transition from a state-dom-
will make recommendations on the merger of the former FATA and its share in the NFC. An eighth committee has been formed to deliberate on national debt composition and utilisation, with the Balochistan finance minister appointed as its chair.
inated procurement system to a market-based wheat economy, ensure price stability through market-consistent indicative prices, and build and manage strategic reserves sufficient to safeguard food security. The policy also seeks to promote private sector participation in wheat procurement, storage, and trading, reduce the fiscal burden and quasi-fiscal operations associated with wheat management, and facilitate free and competitive trade within Pakistan’s national wheat market.
PM confers ‘Reform Champion’ award on DRAP CEO for regulatory overhaul PROFIT
staff report
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has conferred the ‘Reform Champion’ award on Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan Chief Executive Officer Dr Obaidullah Malik, recognising efforts to modernise regulation, improve transparency and efficiency, and strengthen public health protection. In a statement following the award, Dr Obaidullah said the recognition reflected the collective work of the DRAP team and reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to building a science-based and globally aligned
regulatory system to ensure the availability of safe and effective therapeutic goods. The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association congratulated the DRAP chief on the award, saying the recognition reflected regulatory reforms that have supported the pharmaceutical industry and strengthened the sector. PPMA Senior Vice Chairman and AGP Limited Managing Director and CEO Kamran Nasir said DRAP’s recent approach focused on creating an enabling regulatory environment while maintaining oversight. He said aligning reforms with industry realities and eliminating spurious medicines would
be important for positioning Pakistan as a pharmaceutical export hub. DRAP’s reforms include deregulation of prices for non-essential medicines in February 2024, allowing manufacturers to set prices in line with production costs, while retaining price control over essential and life-saving drugs. Industry representatives said the move improved medicine availability, reduced black marketing and helped curb the circulation of counterfeit products. The authority also allowed price adjustments under hardship cases, enabling manufacturers to resume production of medicines that had previously been withdrawn due to cost pressures.
Pakistan, ADB reaffirm partnership on reforms, private sector–led growth g
aurangzeb seeks iMpaCt-driven projeCts, faster iMpleMentation under iMf-linked agenda PROFIT
staff report
Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Monday reaffirmed their strategic partnership to advance structural reforms, improve development outcomes, and support private sector–led growth. According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Finance, Finance and Revenue Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with a high-level ADB delegation led by Country Director Emma Fan and Central and West Asia Department Director General Leah Gutierrez, along with senior officials from ADB’s Pakistan office. The finance minister appreciated ADB’s support in budgetary financing, climate resilience, social sector development, and reform initiatives. He said future coop-
eration should be guided by measurable outcomes and key performance indicators, rather than project approvals alone. Aurangzeb stressed the need to improve project readiness and execution, noting that implementation delays had reduced development impact, particularly in social and climate-related programmes. The meeting reviewed Pakistan’s macroeconomic stabilisation and reform path under the IMF Extended Fund Facility. The finance minister cited improved credit ratings, recent IMF reviews, and approval of the Climate Resilience Facility as indicators of external confidence in Pakistan’s reform agenda. He reiterated the government’s commitment to reforms in taxation, the energy sector, state-owned enterprises, privatisation, and public financial management. The minister briefed the delegation on recent
steps, including the privatisation of a small bank, progress on energy sector restructuring, and renewed investor interest in strategic transactions. Aurangzeb also referred to growth in exports, particularly IT services, rising remittances, and a contained current account deficit, while underlining the need for balanced and sustainable growth. He said the government remained committed to trade liberalisation and competitiveness despite resistance from protected sectors. Speaking for ADB, Emma Fan welcomed the government’s reform efforts and thanked the finance ministry for cooperation, including during the recent visit of the ADB president. She said faster project preparation and streamlined processes were essential for timely disbursements and development results. ADB officials confirmed readiness to
addendum only replaces earlier veon entity, veon group Holdings in public offer, terms remain unchanged PROFIT
Centre urges provinCial governMents to fully iMpleMent tHe interiM national WHeat poliCy 2025–26 to safeguard tHe rigHts of WHeat farMers and flour ConsuMers staff report
Veon-backed Jazz International Holding named acquirer in TPL Insurance takeover
staff report
New wheat policy expands private sector role in procurement, storage g
news 03
provide further budget support aligned with the IMF programme and outlined future engagement in areas including insurance sector reforms, public-private partnerships, pension reforms, and continued support for climate resilience and social sector development. The delegation also highlighted ADB’s increasing focus on private sector development through potential transactions, guarantees, and PPP initiatives, including proposed airport projects. Strengthening ADB’s in-country presence, including the appointment of a new country operations head, was cited as a step toward deeper engagement. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination as Pakistan advances its reform agenda under the upcoming country partnership framework and prepares the development pipeline for 2026 and beyond.
Jazz International Holding Limited has been confirmed as the acquiring entity in the proposed acquisition of shares and control of TPL Insurance Limited, replacing the previously named VEON Group Holding Company Ltd and its affiliates. Arif Habib Limited, acting as manager to the offer, informed the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistan Stock Exchange through an addendum to the Public Announcement of Intention originally published on September 8, 2025. The addendum will be published in Business Recorder and Nawa-i-Waqt on December 17, 2025. According to the filing, the change follows finalisation of the acquiring entity, with Jazz International Holding Limited now named as the acquirer, acting in concert with Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited. All other details of the transaction, including the ultimate beneficial ownership and information relating to TPL Insurance, remain unchanged. Jazz International Holding Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of VEON Ltd and was incorporated on September 11, 2025, in the United Arab Emirates. VEON Ltd, the ultimate controlling shareholder, is listed on Nasdaq and operates digital and telecommunications businesses across multiple markets, including Pakistan. The addendum was submitted in accordance with the Securities Act, 2015 and the Listed Companies (Substantial Acquisition of Voting Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2017.
Russia-Pakistan in talks about potential oil agreement: Aurangzeb CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
Malik’s participation underscored Pakistan’s commitment to becoming a key destination for resource-based investment, building on discussions from earlier meetings, including the September meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in energy, trade, and regional connectivity, including the development of a trade corridor linking Russia, Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Malik’s visit to SPIGF also followed his participation in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where he unveiled Pakistan’s Mining Framework Policy and discussed the Reko Diq project’s progress. He noted that Pakistan’s mineral wealth, including copper, gold, lithium, and rare earth elements, offers significant opportunities for sustainable development with clear regulatory frameworks. The engagement with Russia comes as Pakistan continues to balance its external economic and strategic relationships amid shifting global alignments. While Islamabad has expanded energy cooperation with Moscow in response to cost pressures and supply diversification needs, it remains engaged with the United States and multilateral lenders, particularly the IMF, where policy coordination and macroeconomic discipline remain central to Pakistan’s external financing outlook. With Russia still subject to wide-ranging US, EU, UK, and allied sanctions imposed after its invasion of Ukraine, Pakistan’s recent Russia-focused engagements could be framed as solely commercially driven rather than geopolitical, reflecting Pakistan’s broader effort to pursue issue-based partnerships in a fragmented global energy market.
Sindh cabinet clears transport, wheat relief, Thar rail funds, IT Tower plan g
CM approves spending on buses, poliCing, audit reforMs, prisons, digital infrastruCture PROFIT
staff report
The Sindh Cabinet on Tuesday approved a wide-ranging set of financial, administrative and development measures covering public transport, policing, wheat pricing, Thar coal connectivity, internal audit reforms, social protection initiatives and the establishment of an IT Tower in Karachi. The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at the CM House, was attended by provincial ministers, advisers, special assistants, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, Principal Secretary to the CM Agha Wasif and senior officials. The cabinet also confirmed minutes of the Cabinet Committee on Finance. Among key approvals, the cabinet sanctioned Rs964.4 million for procurement and operation of public transport buses in
Karachi under a non-ADP scheme, Rs5.84 billion for arms and ammunition to strengthen Sindh Police, and Rs1 billion for producing films, dramas and documentaries for public awareness. Additional approvals included funding for sports events, assistance for SOS Children’s Village in Tharparkar, creation of a project implementation unit under STEVTA, posts in newly established colleges, procurement of vehicles for Sindh Prisons, and support for cultural initiatives including the 10th Adab Festival. Funds were also cleared for emergency water supply schemes in Malir, an additional ramp at Korangi Causeway, renovation of a government girls’ school in Saddar, and hosting of a regional CPA conference at the Sindh Assembly. The chief minister directed departments to ensure timely utilisation of funds and ad-
herence to transparency and financial discipline. The cabinet approved a revision of the Wheat Release Policy for 2025–26, allowing immediate release of government wheat at Rs8,000 per 100kg bag, down from Rs9,500, to flour mills, chakkies and traders. A sub-committee was formed to monitor prices and recommend changes if required. To strengthen governance, the cabinet approved a regulatory framework for internal audit under the Sindh Public Finance Administration Act, 2020, including creation of a cadre of Chief Internal Audit Officers and 45 posts across departments under the Finance Department. On public-private partnerships, the cabinet decided against restoring a blanket Sindh sales tax exemption for PPP projects after expiry of the general exemption on June 30, but allowed exemptions to be considered on a project-by-project basis. The
matter was referred to the Cabinet Committee on Finance. The cabinet approved release of over Rs6.6 billion as Sindh’s share for the Islamkot–Chorr railway line, Bin Qasim–Port Qasim double track and coal unloading facility project, aimed at transporting Thar coal nationwide. A cabinet committee will visit the project site to review progress. It also approved the Pension Fund Managers Agreement for the Sindh Defined Contribution Pension Scheme for employees recruited on or after July 1, 2024, covering four sub-funds and insurance benefits. For prison security, the cabinet allowed procurement of a wireless communication system for Sindh Prisons through the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation, noting Rs200 million has already been released. The cabinet approved procurement of a
protected heritage building on MA Jinnah Road for establishing the Sindh IT Tower, with a consolidated valuation of Rs1.5 billion. The Science & IT Department and Sindh IT Company were directed to prepare utilisation and management plans. Legislative approvals included proposed amendments to the Sindh Safe Cities Authority Act, 2019, to expand its scope across Sindh and revise governance structures, and the Thar Coal and Energy Board (Amendment) Bill, 2025, to strengthen regulation and tariff determination. The cabinet granted a two-year extension to Sindh Revenue Board Chairman Dr Wasif Memon until December 2027, and ratified appointments of three judicial members to the Sindh Human Rights Commission. It also approved amendments to the concession agreement for the M9–N5 Link Road Project and payment of Rs573.42 million from the Viability Gap Fund to the concessionaire for delays linked to the M9 interchange.
04 COMMENT
Wednesday, 17 December, 2025
Wake Up: It’s Not Your Daddy’s New York City Anymore
Mixed signals
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The business community and the stock market gave opposite reactions to the rate cut
The times they are a-changin’
HE State Bank Monetary Policy Committee’s cut of its benchmark rate from 11 percent to 10.5 percent would not have been entirely approved by all segments. Even as the business community would have hailed it, the banks would have emitted rumbles of discontent and the stock market would have probably taken a hit. However, the mixed reaction of the business community on one hand, and the stock exchange on the other, indicates that the MPC might have got something right, though not everything. The Karachi Chamber of Commerce And Instry, Korangi Association of Trade and Industry and SITE Association of Industry Presidents all have decried the cut as inadequate. The Stock Market seemed a little more practical, and went up 871 points on the news of the rate cut, to 10,741c points, a new record. The cut was not expected, because the MPC seems determined to avoid inflation setting in. However, as the inflation rate continued to remain low, and as growth had still not taken off, propping up the rate, though bankers would have devoutly wished it, was not really an option. The MPC’s caution, in which it had taken about a year to halve the benchmark from a high of 22 percent, might be justified for inflation, but without a rate cut, there was the danger of killing off the anaemic recovery the cuts so far had brought. However, the MPC also had to take account of IMF warnings against easing the money supply. The rate cut does mean that the government’s debt servicing expenditure is going to go down, with its consequent positive impact on the primary surplus. Incidentally, that surplus is already more than planned, and was a factor in the cut. The business community has expressed the need for a single-digit rate, so that it could compete for exports with other South Asian countries, with singledigit rates. What a single-digit rate, all at once, would do to inflation is nobody’s business. It seems a cautious approach is appropriate, and a gradual easing of the interest, though not so slow as to strangle what growth is occurring, seems the judicious approach to adopt. Apart from inflation, other factors, like global oil prices and post-tariffs trade, seem to indicate the not only inflationary fears are receding, but global growth is likely to pick up. That can only be good for business.
A
NALYSTS are still working to understand Zohran Mamdani’s decisive victory in last month’s New York mayoral race. Like the blind men in the old Indian story of the “Blind Men and the Elephant,” the explanations offered have been mostly accurate but incomplete. Mamdani’s focus on affordability was clearly appealing, as was his compelling affability on display in clever and incisive social media posts. The fact that he was constantly on the move, meeting and engaging voters where they were, was also a factor in his favor. It communicated his authentic desire to know voters and have them know him. In the stale consultant-driven political environment in which we find ourselves, Mamdani was a breath of fresh air. With his opponents spending tens of millions on negative attack ads, Mamdani’s approach was new and exciting. Despite running against the well-funded campaign of a former governor and much of the New York Democratic Party establishment that saw him as a threat to their hegemony, he not only prevailed but also won more votes than any previous mayoral candidate in the city’s history. Three other factors were also decisive in shaping the outcome. The first is the changing demographics of New York City. In 1980, more than one-half of the city’s population was white. Today it is less than onethird white. In 1980, 1,400,000 New Yorkers were Hispanic. Today they number 2 ½ million. During this same period, New York’s Black population remained fairly stable at about 1,700,000, though over one-third of today’s Black population are immigrants or the descendants of recent immigrants from African or Caribbean countries. One of the
Combined, these factors demonstrate how New York City has changed, the city’s Democratic Party is changing, and the Arab American, American Muslim, and American Jewish communities are changing— all for the better. The bottom line: It’s not your daddy’s New York anymore
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
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biggest shifts has been the dramatic growth of New York’s population of Asian descent. They have grown from a few hundred thousand to 1,400,000. These changing demographics in favor of newer immigrant communities resulted in substantial shifts in the composition of the electorate and it mattered in this election. Mamdani easily won among Asian, Hispanic, and Black voters. But it’s important to note that he almost evenly split the white vote with his main opponent. Performing that well among all demographic groups is unusual in New York politics. Another critically important factor in Mamdani’s win was the role an empowered grassroots movement played. The political group that powered his victory was the Democratic Socialists of America. With thousands of organizers throughout New York City, they had already accounted for a number of upset wins during this past decade. The first was in 2018, when upstart Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez defeated Congressman Joseph Crowley. At the time of his defeat, Crowley was the Chair of the Queens County Democratic Party and Vice-Chair of the Democratic Caucus in Congress. In many ways, Ocasio-Cortez’s win presaged Mamdani’s. Crowley had the support of the establishment and far more money than his unknown insurgent opponent, but the party apparatus he headed had grown lazy and stale. She had a grassroots movement that out-organized the establishment. In the years that followed, DSA activists won a number of elections for state and local posts across the city (including Mamdani’s 2021 election to New York State Assembly). They showed that an organization of energized grassroots activists can defeat the establishment and their money. A final factor that played a critical role in Mamdani’s victory was the impact of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza on the electorate in general, and specifically on the Jewish community in New York City. For decades, the accepted political wisdom was that because of the size of the Jewish community in New York City, a political candidate who wanted to win there had to pay homage to Israel. It was assumed that the Jewish community was in lock-step with Israel and that those who wanted their votes or support should act accordingly. This not only silenced any reasoned discussion of the Middle East, but also had a devastating impact on the ability of Arab Americans and, especially after 9/11, American Muslims to freely participate in the city’s political life. One example stands out. In 1988 Jesse Jack-
Pre-emption simply doesn’t work
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Qamar Bashir
HE doctrine of preventive and preemptive strike, once defended as a tool to neutralize danger, has instead evolved into one of the most destabilizing forces of the modern era. It was misused in Iraq, misapplied in Afghanistan, refined by Israel across the Middle East, and has now begun reshaping US policy in the Western Hemisphere with dangerous momentum. A strategy designed to stop future conflict is in reality manufacturing perpetual instability, radicalization, and blowback that reaches far beyond the battlefield. Today it resurfaces in Venezuela and Colombia, where US kinetic actions mirror the same flawed logic that once plunged entire regions into chaos. Washington now accuses Venezuela’s leadership of facilitating narcotics trafficking— including fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and synthetic opioids— into the USA. Acting on these claims, US forces have destroyed 21 Venezuelan maritime vessels, including a mini-submarine, multiple fishing boats, and coastal carriers allegedly tied to smuggling networks. Venezuela has condemned these strikes as “acts of war,” and nationwide protests demand retaliation. As naval deployments increase and rhetoric hardens, the region inches toward confrontation. Colombia faces parallel pressure. US intelligence asserts that Colombian networks have expanded trafficking corridors and that the government has not done enough to stop them. In response, US forces have conducted over 50 targeted seizureand-destruction missions against Colombianlinked maritime and aerial assets. Colombia’s leadership has called these actions coercive violations of sovereignty, warning that repeated strikes “may compel defensive measures.” In both nations, US interdictions are no longer viewed as anti-drug operations but as the early stages of a pre-emptive war extending into sovereign territory. This rapid escalation is not new. It mirrors the same pattern witnessed in Iraq, Libya, and Syria, where preventive-strike logic
produced catastrophic long-term consequences. After the 2003 Iraq invasion— justified by fabricated claims of weapons of mass destruction— extremist movements multiplied. The world soon witnessed the Madrid bombings of 2004 (193 killed), London bombings of 2005 (52 killed), Paris attacks of 2015 (130 killed), Brussels bombings of 2016 (32 killed), and the Nice massacre (86 killed). These were not isolated tragedies. They were the direct blowback of destabilizing entire societies under the banner of preventive security. The USA has suffered its own share of domestic consequences. The Boston Marathon bombing, the Orlando nightclub massacre, the San Bernardino attack, and the Fort Hood shooting all emerged from radicalization fueled by wars that inflamed emotions, grievances, and ideological anger across continents. Western intelligence agencies acknowledged that the Iraq War accelerated global extremism more than any single event since World War II. This pattern continued recently with the fatal shooting of a US National Guard soldier and the wounding of another by an armed gunman who, according to initial assessments, carried deep personal grievances and emotional wounds closely tied to broader social and psychological turmoil. His act, though individual in execution, reflects a growing trend: internal radicalization born not only from ideology but from a society increasingly shaped by violence abroad and polarization at home. When nations normalize pre-emptive violence externally, elements within their own society begin to internalize the same logic— that grievance can justify aggression, that perceived threats demand immediate force, and that violence is a legitimate expression of injury. This tragedy is a domestic echo of a doctrine whose psychological fractures now reach into US neighbourhoods and military families. These external and internal patterns converge with a new and overlooked threat: the USA’s own criminal ecosystem, which is deeply intertwined with the consequences of its foreign and domestic policies. According to law-enforcement estimates, there are approximately 172,000 cartel-affiliated and illegal-gang operatives inside the USA, embedded in trafficking, distribution, logistics, and underground financial networks. If aggressive external crackdowns in Venezuela and Colombia disrupt these supply chains, tens of thousands of operatives inside the USA will suddenly lose their income, hierarchy, and criminal ecosystems. History shows that men trained in covert movement, armed logistics, intimidation, and
Pre-emptive doctrine does not provide safety. It creates destruction, resentment, and internal instability. Only when nations reject the impulse to strike first and invest instead in long-term social transformation— at home and abroad— will the world begin to heal from the damage this doctrine has unleashed Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965
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Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I
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 Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545
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The writer is President, Arab American Institute.
Editor’s mail
America Falls Victim to Its Own Pre-Emptive Doctrine
criminal coordination rarely retire when their networks collapse. Some may reintegrate into society, but many— dispossessed, angry, and stripped of status— may evolve into more violent, unpredictable actors. A displaced criminal workforce of 172,000 individuals, skilled in violence and trafficking, represents a potential flashpoint for domestic terrorism far greater than the maritime vessels destroyed abroad. Without rehabilitation, education, economic inclusion, and cultural transformation, enforcement alone may ignite a domestic insurgency that grows silently inside US borders. Meanwhile, abroad, the preventive doctrine continues generating diplomatic and strategic losses. Israel’s long-term reliance on pre-emptive strikes has led to unprecedented isolation from Europe, legal indictments, suspended arms transfers, and deep economic damage. Its military strength remains intact, but its global legitimacy has deteriorated. The USA is experiencing similar erosion. At the United Nations, the USA increasingly stands alone defending actions viewed internationally as violations of sovereignty. Allies abstain rather than stand with Washington. Latin American anger intensifies as US forces strike vessels and aircraft in waters they consider their own. If left unchecked, these actions could fracture hemispheric relations for decades. A region historically tied to the USA may transform into a zone of resistance and asymmetric retaliation. Every destroyed boat, every violated border, every wounded soldier, every act of internal violence becomes part of a growing web of instability linking foreign miscalculations with domestic consequences. A sustainable solution requires more than interdictions, seizures, or kinetic displays. Preventive violence cannot cure the social, economic, and cultural conditions that fuel crime and extremism. Real security emerges from deeper reforms— education, opportunity, community rebuilding, regional cooperation, and domestic social healing. Without addressing underlying fractures, the USA risks creating the very threats it seeks to eliminate, both abroad and within its borders. The world must move toward outlawing preventive and pre-emptive strikes. Nations that violate sovereignty must face automatic, impartial economic and diplomatic consequences enforced by mechanisms beyond the reach of political manipulation. Humanity cannot afford another Iraq, another Libya, another Syria— or a Venezuelan and Colombian conflict born from speculative intelligence and unilateral force. Nor can the USA afford more tragedies like the killing of its own National Guard soldier at the hands of a deeply wounded man shaped by a fractured national psyche. Pre-emptive doctrine does not provide safety. It creates destruction, resentment, and internal instability. Only when nations reject the impulse to strike first and invest instead in long-term social transformation— at home and abroad— will the world begin to heal from the damage this doctrine has unleashed.
son’s presidential bid became the first to welcome the Arab community into a presidential campaign. The New York rally and fundraiser Arab Americans organized for Jackson was one of his most successful events. When, the following year, one of Jackson’s New York co-chairs announced that he would run for mayor, the Arab community was ready to play a part. Early in the year, I was called to New York by the candidate and his campaign manager. They told me that the city’s Jewish establishment was upset by the role Arabs had played in Jackson’s effort and by Jackson’s embrace of Palestinian rights. They told me, “Tell your people we don’t want their support. If the Arabs give us a thousand dollars, the Jewish community will raise one hundred thousand to defeat us. Keep them away.” I left the meeting shocked and upset and went to prominent Jewish writers I knew at the Washington Post, the New York Times, and the Village Voice and told them what had happened. They wrote scathing attacks on this bigoted exclusion. But, fear still won, and the exclusion continued. Given this context, it becomes clear what an enormous difference was in evidence in this year’s New York election. The impact of Israel’s war on Gaza transformed politics. Support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel’s genocidal policies have become mainstream issues. Arabs and Muslims are welcomed. At the same time, this election shattered the myth of a monolithic Jewish vote. Despite the hysterical anti-Mamdani reaction of the Jewish establishment (more than one leader referred to him as “the enemy of the Jewish community”), the majority of young Jews supported Mamdani, along with more than one-third of all Jewish voters. Combined, these factors demonstrate how New York City has changed, the city’s Democratic Party is changing, and the Arab American, American Muslim, and American Jewish communities are changing— all for the better. The bottom line: It’s not your daddy’s New York anymore.
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Profit over lives
THIS is with reference to the report ‘Faisalabad glue factory explosion claims 20 lives’ (Published in Dawn on Nov 22). Unfortunately, deaths due to boiler blasts have become routine in industrial units in Punjab. Some of the incidents, depending on the scale, get reported in the media, while many others remain unreported. Such tragic incidents are extremely rare in developed countries. The reason is simple: strict adherence to safety rules, uncompromising respect for human life, and compliance with international manufacturing and operational standards. Boilers operating at far higher pressures are used on sea-going vessels and in giant industrial units around the world, yet a boiler explosion there is almost unheard of. These boilers are regularly inspected by independent organisations, with no room for corruption or negligence. In Pakistan, however, the greed for quick profit has led industrialists to purchase substandard machinery. Boiler manufacturing has now become a so-called ‘cottage industry’, where pressure vessels are fabricated without following globally accepted standards. The Boilers and Pressure Vessels Ordinance 2002 clearly defines standards for construction, inspection, registration and safe operation. If implemented in letter and in spirit, boiler explosions would become virtually impossible. Sadly, laws are made only to be violated. Highly sensitive and critical equipment is being produced like toys, and there are blatant violations, but the authorities prefer not to enforce the law. Furthermore, due to rising fuel prices and the unavailability of natural gas, many industrial units have shifted to highly unsafe fuel sources, such as wood, which not only increases the risk of explosions, but also destroys our existing forests. Like most previous incidents, a case has been registered against the factory-owner and supervisor in the current incident, which is likely to be closed quietly. No action will be taken against the boiler manufacturer or the inspector who had certified the boiler. No meaningful compensation will be paid to the families of the deceased workers either. In a country with massive unemployment, the life of a poor labourer is considered expendable. Vacant positions created by death are filled immediately by other desperate job-seekers. Tragically, these workers are not provided any health or safety protection. A complete restructuring of the boiler inspection department is urgently needed. All manufacturers violating international standards must be heavily fined, their machinery confiscated, and the licences of negligent inspectors cancelled without delay. Boiler explosions occur due to several factors, including low water level, over-pressure, faulty safety valves, poor maintenance, scale formation, operator error, and defective design or manufacturing. To prevent such tragedies, all boiler manufacturing facilities must be audited by independent third-party organisations, preferably internationally recognised ones. Manufacturers must be required to operate under licence from globally recognised boiler manufacturers. The curriculum for boiler engineers’ competence examinations must be revised to meet international standards. Government boiler inspectors must be re-examined and re-certified by indepen- dent authorities. They must be prohibited from using transport or accepting any kind of hospitality from the factories they inspect. Any boiler explosion must be investi-gated by an independent body, and the responsible inspector’s licence should be cancelled immediately. The manufacturing and use of wood-fired boilers must be completely banned and existing units confiscated. Now is the time for decisive action. Further delay will only result in more innocent lives being lost. AAMIR AQIL LAHORE
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Growing Tourism in Pakistan and AJK Wednesday, 17 December, 2025
The ultimate responsibility lies with the people
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Abdul bAsit Alvi
AKISTAN and Azad Jammu and Kashmir possess extraordinary tourism potential due to their stunning natural landscapes, deep historical roots, and vibrant cultural diversity. From the towering peaks of the northern mountains to the lush valleys of AJK, the region offers exceptional opportunities for adventure, eco-, and cultural tourism. Their rich heritage— including the Indus Valley Civilization, Gandhara sites, Mughal architecture, and unique local traditions— further enhances their appeal. Tourism has the power to boost national income, create jobs, reduce poverty, uplift local communities, and improve Pakistan’s global image by showcasing its hospitality, beauty, and cultural richness. However, realizing this potential requires sustainable planning, strong infrastructure, environmental protection, and meaningful public participation. Unregulated tourism, environmental damage, and political instability threaten long-term success. Citizens play a crucial role in maintaining peace, protecting natural and cultural assets, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. With responsible public conduct, community involvement, and government commitment to eco-friendly development, Pakistan and AJK can transform tourism into a central pillar of economic growth, national unity, and international recognition. Civic sense and public behaviour assume an equally pivotal role in tourism promotion. Tourists, irrespective of whether they are local residents exploring their own country or visitors from foreign lands, tend to evaluate a destination not solely on the basis of its striking natural beauty but also
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PALESTINE CHRONICLE Peren birsAygili Mut
HEN the first Jewish settlers set foot on Palestinian lands around 150 years ago, the First Zionist Congress (1897) was still years away. In other words, while Zionism had not yet emerged as an organized political force, the wave of immigration to Palestine had already begun. When Theodor Herzl convened the congress, his task was not as difficult as it might seem. The ingredients of the meal had already been prepared and placed in the pot – all he had to do was light the stove. Those who entered the “kitchen” before him were none other than a group of early Zionist writers and poets. EARLY ZIONIST LITERATURE: LIES CONSTRUCTED AGAINST THE TRUTH With the British Mandate occupation that followed World War I, Palestinian literature gained a distinctly resistant identity, telling the world the story of a people whose very existence was denied by their enemies for over a century. It guarded an identity threatened with erasure. Looking back over the century, we see that Palestinian writers fought on multiple fronts simultaneously. Their struggle was not limited to the British Mandate authorities nor Zionist militias such as the Haganah, which began operating shortly after. Palestinians also faced a literary enemy – an army of Zionist poets and writers living across the world, whose works were filled with dramatic elements. Some lived in England, some in France, some in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, some in Russia; some were even non-Jewish. Standing against their texts was as challenging as dealing with an arrogant British military governor or a ruthless member of a Zionist militia. Zionist literature, which sought to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine and promote the idea of colonization through novels, short stories, poetry, and plays, completely disregarded reality and reconstructed the Palestinian lands in the imagination. According to The Wondrous Tale of Alroy (1833) by Benjamin Disraeli, the Jews could regain their former power only by acquiring Palestinian lands. Before it was even published, this novel had five hundred pre-orders from aristocratic circles in London and was soon translated into Russian, French, and German. Another early Zionist novel, Daniel Deronda, by the non-Jewish English writer George Eliot, featured a protagonist experiencing an identity crisis. Deronda was a young Englishman who later discovered his Jewish heritage. Published on a rainy September day in 1876, the novel suggested that the path to overcoming all hardships and crises lay in returning to Jewish roots and to the land of Palestine.
significantly by the behavior and demeanuor of its people. Courtesy, genuine hospitality, and uncompromising honesty are universally recognized as the non-negotiable hallmarks of a truly tourist-friendly society. While Pakistan and AJK have historically been celebrated for their exceptional warmth and generosity, there have been unfortunate, isolated instances of overcharging, insufficient cleanliness standards, or localized harassment that have undeniably and unfairly tarnished the image of specific, popular tourist locations. It remains the undeniable moral duty of every single citizen to sincerely uphold the core values of honesty, profound respect, and helpfulness when engaging in any interaction with visitors. Vendors, various transport drivers, professional guides, and hotel personnel are expected to treat all tourists with unwavering fairness, while local residents should proactively make a concerted effort to assist visitors in successfully navigating unfamiliar places or comprehending complex cultural norms. Even the smallest of actions— such as offering a warm, sincere greeting to tourists, diligently keeping surrounding areas spotlessly clean, and ensuring that all public spaces feel genuinely welcoming— can generate indelible positive impressions and effectively encourage visitors to make a return visit or enthusiastically recommend the destination to others in their network. Another core and non-negotiable public responsibility is diligently maintaining environmental cleanliness and actively protecting the natural environment The enduring beauty of Pakistan and AJK is deeply rooted in being unspoiled, in their pristine lakes, dense forests, and towering mountains. Unfortunately, pervasive irresponsible tourist behaviour combined with consistent public negligence has led directly to widespread littering, pollution, and visible damage to natural habitats. The presence of accumulating plastic waste in rivers, graffiti on natural rock formations, random, unsupervised campfires have all diminished numerous scenic areas. The public must grasp that environmental protection is not exclusively for the government; it represents a fundamental collective obligation. Individuals must not discard garbage in public spaces, consciously try to use only biodegradable mate-
rials when feasible, and should actively participate in community-led cleanup initiatives. Comprehensive education in robust environmental ethics can help cultivate a generation that values and is committed to preserving the natural beauty that sustains the tourism industry. By consciously taking ownership of their surroundings, citizens can help ensure that the natural splendour of Pakistan and AJK remains intact for future generations and thus attract travelers from all over. Deep respect for cultural diversity and the safeguarding of heritage sites represents yet another critically important dimension. Pakistan and AJK are the proud hosts of ancient civilizations, possess a multitude of invaluable historical monuments, and maintain a wealth of unique cultural traditions. Despite this, vandalism, illegal construction close to heritage sites, and a general disregard for preservation have tragically threatened many rreplaceable treasures. The public must treat all heritage sites with respect, strictly avoid defacing monuments, and actively support conservation initiatives. Locals are best to serve as custodians of their culture by guiding tourists, sharing local stories, and preserving traditional crafts, indigenous music, and cuisine. The committed protection of intangible cultural heritage— encompassing elements such as folk art, oral traditions, and local festivals— enhances the tourist experience and strengthens the unique identity of the locals. When the populace exhibits pride in their heritage, they inherently help project a consistently positive image of Pakistan and AJK. The influential role of social media has become undeniable in shaping perceptions of various tourism destinations. Today's citizens wield unprecedented power to influence how Pakistan and AJK are ultimately perceived internationally. Instead of circulating negativity, unverified rumours, or content promoting division, the public should use digital platforms to showcase their region. Sharing high-quality photographs and compelling travel stories, and recounting positive experiences captures the attention of global travellers and potential investors. Vloggers, photographers, and influencers have already helped successfully change negative perceptions about Pakistan by highlighting its underlying safety, inherent hospitality, and cultural diversity. Every individual can contribute meaningfully to this digital movement by judiciously and re-
CommenT 05
sponsibly using social media to promote a positive, authentic, and truthful image of their homeland. Public cooperation with governmental and private sector initiatives remains absolutely vital for tourism development. When new, necessary projects such as resorts, new roads, or recreational facilities are formally introduced, local communities must demonstrate support rather than resistance motivated by narrow political or personal biases. Genuine local participation helps ensure that all tourism development remains fundamentally inclusive and broadly beneficial for all stakeholders. The people also bear the responsibility of holding authorities constructively accountable— by offering valuable feedback, participating in awareness programmes, and encouraging transparency— instead of counterproductive and destructive protests. Meaningful, hands-on contributions, such as volunteering on local tourism committees, offering community-based homestay accommodations, and actively participating in organized cultural events, represent practical and effective ways to contribute to the collective growth of the sector. Equally paramount is ensuring the unwavering safety and ultimate comfort of all tourists. A truly tourist-friendly environment necessitates constant vigilance against crimes such as theft, harassment, or fraud. Local residents must be protective of visitors, guarding them from potential exploitation and promptly reporting any concerning incidents. The provision of accurate and reliable information, the guiding of travellers toward trustworthy and safe services, and the assurance that all women and families feel consistently secure and respected are indispensable aspects of responsible citizenship. When visitors feel genuinely secure and respected, they are inclined to not only increase their spending during their stay but also transform into invaluable ambassadors of goodwill, sharing their overwhelmingly positive experiences with others and thus powerfully encouraging further tourism. Finally, there must be comprehensive economic awareness among the public regarding the benefits of tourism. Few people fully appreciate just how positively tourism can impact their daily lives and local economies. From the farmers who sell their produce directly to restaurants, to the skilled craftsmen who create authentic souvenirs, and the drivers who offer reliable transport
services— tourism generates a quantifiable ripple effect that benefits virtually every sector of the economy. The resultant inflow of tourists naturally increases local business opportunities, increases property values, and invariably leads to significant improvements in crucial infrastructure. When citizens fully recognize this direct and profound connection, they become intrinsically more motivated to actively protect and promote tourism because its growth directly and demonstrably translates into financial gains and an enhanced quality of life for their entire community. The successful and lasting growth of tourism in Pakistan and AJK relies fundamentally not just on government policies or largescale foreign investments, but most essentially on the collective sense of responsibility and dedication among the people. The foundation of a thriving tourism industry rests upon the pillars of peace, cleanliness, genuine hospitality, honesty, unwavering environmental care, and deep respect for culture. Instances of damaging protests and unnecessary violence must be thoughtfully supplanted by constructive dialogue and genuine cooperation, for every instance of internal unrest pushes the country further away from achieving its potential for economic stability and securing global recognition. The people of Pakistan and AJK must decisively embrace their essential role as the primary ambassadors of their homeland, actively working in concert to maintain peace, protect their inherent natural beauty, and consistently offer genuine, heartfelt hospitality. By collectively committing to these responsibilities, they possess the transformative power to elevate their regions into truly world-class tourist destinations that ultimately deliver enduring prosperity, profound national pride, and meaningful progress for all generations to come. The writer is a freelance columnist
The power of truth against fiction: Comparing Palestinian and Zionist literature Two different representations emerged: a completely empty Palestine, “a land without a people,” and others who acknowledged some “wilderness” in Palestine
Those who did so would suddenly become both mentally and physically strong and whole. One of the main strategies employed by these writers, who skillfully used literature to encourage Jewish immigration to Palestine and turn it into a powerful propaganda tool, was to portray those who migrated as strong, independent, and capable people, while depicting those who stayed behind as weak and pitiful. Andre Spire, the most prominent representative of the Zionist revival in French poetry, thus addressed the Jews in one of his poems: “What are you doing in your corner, clumsy and sorrowful? So pitiful, so lowly. O Jew, have you no courage?!” Another recurring theme was the connection to land and agriculture. These texts idealized the establishment of a life based on agriculture in Palestine and the revitalization of the land. Yet the most striking aspect was their depiction of Palestine as entirely empty. In 1847, Mark Twain traveled to Palestine with Christian pilgrims and later described the land as barren and desolate in his travelogue Innocents Abroad; The New Pilgrims’ Progress, which would later become a bestseller in the U.S. This text became one of the key works that ignited the Zionist imagination. Two different representations emerged: a completely empty Palestine, “a land without a people,” and others who acknowledged some “wilderness” in Palestine. These texts also chronicled Jews’ resistance and self-defense against these “wild” inhabitants, portraying them as a nation rising to survive in Palestine. Such writings would later help legitimize the actions of Zionist terror groups which would carry out numerous massacres in Palestinian towns and villages in the years to come. ZIONIST LITERATURE BEFORE THE NAKBA In 1927, a poem published in Palestine instantly created a sensation and became a manifesto for the Zionist occupiers. The poem was titled Masada: A Historical Epic. According to Jewish legend, the Masada Fortress was besieged by the Romans in 73 CE and the Jewish defenders inside chose mass suicide over surrender. The poet likened the life-and-death struggle in the fortress to the struggle of the invading Jewish settlers arriving in Palestinian lands. In the poem’s refrain, Zionist settler Yitzak Lamdan declared: Masada lo tipol shuv (Masada will never fall again). In other words, Masada was now in Palestine—but this time, instead of committing suicide, they would fight. The poem had a profound impact on the Zionist movement and accelerated the massacres carried out by Zionist militias. Yet it was inspired by an earlier work: the poem The City of the Massacre, composed by Hayim
Nahman Bialik after the 1903 pogrom against Jews in Russia. Bialik wrote: “Everything is destroyed… And now you will set out… The acacias are flowering and spreading their scent. The flowers are like feathers, and yet they smell of blood. And their sweet smoke will enter your chest as if on purpose. It will call you to spring, to life, and to health.” The City of the Massacre resonated deeply, serving as a manifesto that reinforced Zionist claims of self-defense and, more importantly, of having a national homeland. Many young Russian Jews who read the poem began to organize around Zionism to ensure they would never be defenseless against such attacks again. They first joined underground groups resisting the Russian Tsar and, after the October 1917 Revolution to Palestine to join the Zionist paramilitary Haganah. In short, one of the most crucial factors enabling Zionist militias to recruit so many people was Zionist literature itself. PALESTINIAN LITERATURE: THE DIGNITY OF THE PEN Zionist writers and poets continued to skillfully cover up the truth in all the texts they produced. After the signing of the Balfour Declaration in 1917, their arrogance grew even bolder. The British Mandate, which began soon after in Palestine, offered Zionist writers unprecedented freedom. They no longer had to remain exiled; they could go to Palestine and freely publish magazines and newspapers. On June 1, 1925, the first Hebrew newspaper in Palestine, DavarIton Poalei Eretz Yisrael (Davar – The Newspaper of the Workers of the Land of Israel), began publication. A large portion of its pages was dedicated to culture and arts news, as well as poems and stories by Zionist writers. Yet there was one thing they had not accounted for. From the very moment the British Mandate and Zionist immigration began, Palestinian writers and poets were present in the public sphere. Unlike the narrative in Zionist literary texts, Palestinian writers defended their cities with an ancient heritage, a living population, a strong faith, and deeply rooted culture, upholding the dignity of the pen. Palestine stood resilient. In 1920, unrest erupted at the Nabi Musa shrine near Jerusalem; in 1923, massive protests occurred across Palestinian cities. In 1929, the Buraq uprising took place around Al-Aqsa Mosque and the 1936 general strike was followed by the three-year-long Great Palestinian Revolt. From Syria, Izzeddin al-Qassam arrived in Haifa in 1920, carried out a decade of extensive Islamic educational and in early 1930, the first Qassam Brigades were established. Throughout these social movements, Palestinian writers and poets were always at the forefront,
One of the most crucial factors enabling Zionist militias to recruit so many people was Zionist literature itself standing on the podium. Even among the fighters of martyr al-Qassam, there were poets. Born in 1888, Izzat Darwaza was better known in our region for his Quranic exegesis but became one of the most important pre-Nakba Palestinian authors. He had written numerous plays from an early period. A leader of the Palestinian National Movement, Darwaza’s first plays focused on the Zionist agents attempting to steal Palestinian lands and exposed many of the lies propagated by Zionist writers. Among the first fighters of the Qassam Brigades, Haifa-born poet Nuh Ibrahim wrote poetry by day and carried out raids against British forces and Zionist settlements by night. On October 18, 1938, he was ambushed and martyred by the British, just like his commander al-Qassam. Another martyred poet was Abdürrahim Mahmud from Tulkarem, who was beheaded and thrown into a well by the British and Zionist militias in 1948. He had composed dozens of poems emphasizing the strong Islamic identity in Palestine. Fadwa Tuqan, born the same year the Balfour Declaration was issued, became the greatest female poet of the Palestinian resistance. Not only did she wield a highly educated and powerful pen, but her profound knowledge of Arab music aided her single-handed rebuttal of the savage image depicted in Zionist texts. LITERARY BATTLES AFTER THE NAKBA She was called Palestine and she is still called Palestine – Mahmoud Darwish Palestinian literature, building on its rich preexisting legacy, fully embraced a resistant identity after the Nakba. The newly established State of Israel had named streets and schools after Zionist poets and writers, and in some places erected their statues. Those still alive were invited to live in the state. Many Palestinian writers were however forced to live in exile, mostly in neighboring Arab countries, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria. Wherever they were, they continued to write with extraordinary determination. Just as before the Nakba, poetry remained at the forefront of literary production afterwards. It was easy to memorize and, when necessary, could even be reproduced by hand. What becomes strikingly evident here is the immense pressure placed on Palestinian poets and writers despite the strong international support enjoyed by the new generation of Zionist literary figures. This pressure did not come solely from the Zionist state; in many cases, they were also subjected to close surveillance in the Arab countries where they lived. Shortly after Zionist writer Shmuel Yosef Agnon received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1966, the 1967 Arab-Israeli War broke out, and Israel more than tripled
the territory under its control. While Zionist writers were hosted in elegant ballrooms in London, Paris, New York, and other Western cities, Palestinian poets and writers were condemned to live in refugee camps under tents that moved with the shifting winds. While Agnon wrote in comfort in occupied Jerusalem streets closed to traffic during working hours, the founding chronicler of Palestinian resistance fiction, Ghassan Kanafani, wrote his masterpiece Men in the Sun in secrecy, hiding from Lebanese police. Born in the Austro-Hungarian town of Buchach, Agnon would die in his warm bed in Jerusalem, while Kanafani would be martyred in Beirut by a 300-kilogram bomb. Kanafani’s body was blown apart, his limbs so scattered that it was difficult to assemble them for burial. That Kanafani, who could have been killed by a single blast, was martyred in such a manner was entirely symbolic: it was meant to send a message that any Palestinian writer who continued to write could face the same fate. PALESTINIAN WRITERS TARGETED IN GAZA GENOCIDE Since October 7, 2023, during the ongoing genocide in Gaza, writers and artists have been among the first targets. This is because they do not merely document what is happening in Gaza – they also amplify the voice of their people to the entire world. As a result, attacks against them aim not just to kill an individual writer or artist, but to erase Palestine’s memory, intellectual output, and stories made to be passed down to future generations. Since October 2023, the Zionist state has killed more than 50 Palestinian writers and artists. Despite their immense courage, these Palestinians departed with a striking humility. They refused to leave their homes in Gaza despite numerous threats, defying death in the process. They dared death to bear witness to the Gazan people: the children who fearlessly confront the occupiers; the doctors performing surgeries without anesthesia; the parents burying their children with their own hands. In death, their calm, resolute confrontation left the strongest message to the world. They valued completing the stories of their people over their own lives, departing this world with half-finished notebooks of poetry and novels, and unfinished paintings. This is what the Israeli occupation continues to overlook: how every unfinished sentence for Palestine has become the first line of a new sentence yet to be written. No fiction, no matter how powerful, could ever hide the truth forever.
Peren Birsaygılı Mut is a writer, documentary scriptwriter, and publisher from İzmir, whose work focuses on Palestinian literature and history.
06 NEWS
POLICE CONFIRM BONDI GUNMAN WAS FROM INDIA’S HYDERABAD
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NEW DELHI afp
NDIAN police said on Tuesday that one of the gunmen in Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting, Sajid Akram, was originally from the southern Indian city of Hyderabad but had limited contact with his family in India. The death toll in one of Australia’s worst mass shootings stands at 16, including 50-year-old Akram, who was shot by police. The man’s 24-year-old son and alleged accomplice, identified by local media as Naveed Akram, was in critical condition in hospital after also being shot. Hyderabad is the capital of Telangana state. Australian police said both men had travelled to the Philippines last month, the father on an Indian passport and the son on an Australian one. “The family members have expressed no knowledge of his radical mindset or activities, nor of the circumstances that led to his radicalisation,” Telangana state police said in a statement. The purpose of the trip is under investigation, officials said, adding it was not conclusive whether they were linked to any terrorist group or whether they received training in that country. Telangana police said the factors that led to the radicalisation of the two gunmen “appear to have no connection with India or any local influence in Telangana”. In its statement on Tuesday, Telangana police said Sajid Akram visited India on six occasions, mainly for family-related reasons, since he migrated to Australia in 1998. There was no “adverse record” on him before he left India, the statement added. Sajid and his son Naveed, who al-
legedly killed 15 people and wounded dozens of others at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, arrived on November 1 with the southern Philippine province of Davao listed as their final destination. The father and son spent nearly the entire month of November in the Philippines, Manila’s immigration department confirmed on Tuesday, with the father entering the country as an Indian national. “Sajid Akram, 50, Indian national, and Naveed Akram, 24, Australian national, arrived in the Philippines together last November 1, 2025 from Sydney, Australia,” immigration spokeswoman Dana Sandoval told AFP, adding they departed on November 28. Australian police said on Tuesday both men had travelled to the Philippines last month and the purpose of the trip is under investigation. Philippines police have said they are investigating the matter. Islamic State-linked networks are known to operate in the Philippines and
have wielded some influence in the south of the country. They have been reduced to weakened cells operating in the southern Mindanao island in recent years, far from the scale of influence they wielded during the 2017 Marawi siege. “Early indications point to a terrorist attack inspired by Islamic State, allegedly committed by a father and son,” Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said at a news conference. “These are the alleged actions of those who have aligned themselves with a terrorist organisation, not a religion.” Police also said the vehicle which is registered to the younger male contained improvised explosive devices and two homemade flags associated with ISIS, or Islamic State, a militant group designated by Australia and many other countries as a terrorist organisation. The father and son allegedly fired upon hundreds of people at the festival during a roughly 10-minute killing spree at one of Australia’s top tourist destina-
tions, forcing people to flee and take shelter before both were shot by police. Some 25 survivors are receiving care in several Sydney hospitals, officials said. Australian PM says ‘Islamic State ideology’ drove Bondi Beach gunmen The father and son were driven by “Islamic State ideology” when they fired on crowds at Bondi Beach, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday. “It would appear that this was motivated by Islamic State ideology,” Albanese told national broadcaster ABC. “With the rise of ISIS more than a decade ago now, the world has been grappling with extremism and this hateful ideology,” he said in a separate interview. Albanese said Naveed, reportedly an unemployed bricklayer, had come to the attention of Australia’s intelligence agency in 2019 but was not considered an imminent threat at the time. “They interviewed him, they interviewed his family members, they interviewed people around him,” Albanese said. “He was not seen at that time to be a person of interest.” Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon visited Bondi on Tuesday and urged the Australian government to take all required steps to secure the lives of Jews in Australia. “Only Australians of Jewish faith are forced to worship their gods behind closed doors, CCTV, guards,” Maimon told reporters in Bondi, after laying flowers at the temporary memorial and paying his respects to the victims. “My heart is torn apart … it is insane.” A string of anti-Semitic incidents in Australia has unfolded in the past 16 months, prompting the head of the nation’s main intelligence agency to declare that anti-Semitism was his top priority in terms of threat to life.
Bihar CM faces backlash after viral video shows him pulling down woman doctor’s veil PATNA
India charges militant-groups, 6 men over Pahalgam attack NEW DELHI agenCieS
India’s anti-terrorism agency on Monday charged militant groups and six individuals over an April attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir that killed 26 men, and triggered intense fighting between India and Pakistan. The fighting, the worst between the nuclear-armed neighbours in decades, was sparked when militants opened fire on Hindu tourists in the Pahalgam region of Indian-administered Kashmir. New Delhi said the attack was backed by Pakistan, allegations which Islamabad has denied. Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its offshoot, The Resistance Front (TRF), were charged for their alleged role in “planning, facilitating, and executing the Pahalgam attack”, according to a statement from India’s anti-terrorism agency. Three men killed by Indian security forces during Operation Mahadev in July in Srinagar, Indian Kashmir, were charged posthumously, the statement said. Another two men already in custody were charged, and a man accused of being a “Pakistani” terrorist handler. A spokesperson for Pakistan’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The 1,597-page document was filed before a special court in the Jammu region of India, and contained the first formal charges over the attack. The NIA claims it has traced the conspiracy to Pakistan during a probe that lasted eight months, the statement said, adding that the LeT and TRF, along with the six men, were charged with waging war against India.
newS deSk
A political controversy erupted in Bihar after a video showing Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulling down the face veil of a woman doctor during a public event went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism and raising questions about personal autonomy and decorum in public office. The incident reportedly occurred during an official function where the chief minister was distributing appointment letters to newly recruited doctors. In the video, Kumar can be seen handing over a document to the woman doctor when he reaches forward and pulls down her veil, apparently to see her face. The woman appears visibly uncomfortable as the gesture unfolds, while several officials standing on the stage smile awkwardly. The clip, widely shared across social media platforms, triggered sharp reactions from civil society members, women’s rights activists, and opposition leaders. Critics de-
BERMUDA
A new discovery beneath the Bermuda Triangle has added another layer to the mystery surrounding the region, known for its unexplained ship and aircraft disappearances. Scientists have found
China signals policy push to stabilize, revive investment BEIJING
Staff CorreSpondent
China has sent clear signals to stabilize and revive investment through strengthened policy support, including appropriately increasing the scale of central budget investment and continuing to leverage new policy-based financial instruments, economists said. The tone was set at the annual Central Economic Work Conference held from Dec. 10 to 11, which emphasized the need to halt the decline in investment, promote recovery, and effectively stimulate private investment vitality amid a complex external environment and declining investment returns. China’s fixed-asset investment went down 2.6 percent year-on-year in the first 11 months of 2025, data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed Monday. To bolster investment, the conference also highlighted measures such as optimizing the implementation of major national projects and the management of local government special bond usage. “These steps will amplify the leveraging effect of government investment, further stimulate private investment, and unlock domestic demand potential,” said Jin Li, vice president of the Southern University of Science and Technology. Over the past year, China has rolled out a series of targeted policies, including an 800-billion-yuan (about 113 billion U.S. dollars) list of key projects to implement major national strategies and enhance security capacity in key areas, and 500 billion yuan in new policy-based financial tools to supplement project capital. These efforts aim to reinforce the role of government investment in driving social investment. Looking ahead, stabilizing investment will require stronger policy guarantees, deepening reform of investment and financing mechanisms, and more effective measures to boost private investors’ confidence. Jin stressed the importance of clarifying investment priorities at both central and local levels, proposing highquality projects that align with development needs, local capacities, and public expectations. Despite the decline in investment, China’s investment structure has improved, with rapid growth in high-tech sectors, indicating vast potential and space for future investment, economists noted. Zhang Linshan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research, suggested enhancing support for eligible private projects through central budget investment and new policy financial tools. He also emphasized the need to guide more private capital into major infrastructure and social livelihood projects while breaking down market barriers and improving the business environment. As China advances reforms to build a unified national market and reduce institutional costs, these efforts are expected to foster an efficient and healthy interactive mechanism for private investment, according to Zhang. At a work conference held from Dec. 12 to 13, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the country’s economic planner, further underscored the need to adopt multiple measures to halt the decline in investment and stabilize its growth. The work conference called for giving full play to various government investment funds, including the construction of key projects and newly added local government special bonds, appropriately increasing the scale of central budget investment, and continuing to leverage new policy-based financial instruments to improve investment efficiency continuously.
US military says strikes on 3 vessels in eastern scribed the act as inappropriate and lence among officials present on intrusive, arguing that it violated the stage who did not intervene. Supporters of Kumar, howwoman’s personal choice and dignity. Pacific kill 8 “This is not a trivial gesture. A ever, downplayed the incident,
woman’s decision to cover her face is her own, and no one — especially someone in a position of power — has the right to interfere,” said a women’s rights advocate based in Patna. Opposition parties accused the chief minister of displaying insensitivity toward women and demanded an apology. Some leaders also questioned the culture of si-
claiming there was no malicious intent and that the chief minister merely acted out of habit or curiosity. They urged critics not to politicise the moment. As of now, there has been no official statement from the Bihar Chief Minister’s Office directly addressing the incident. The woman doctor involved has also not made any public comment.
Scientists uncover ‘alien’ structure beneath mysterious Bermuda Triangle newS deSk
Wednesday, 17 December 2025 | ISLAMABAD
a massive 12.4-mile-long rock structure beneath the ocean floor in Bermuda, unlike any other structure ever recorded on Earth. Ad powered by advergic.com The research team claims the structure is unique in its thickness, with no similar formation found before. They believe this discovery
could help unravel one of the world’s most intriguing geological mysteries. Bermuda is situated on an oceanic swell, a raised area of ocean crust, which is often associated with volcanic formations. However, there is no evidence of active volcanism in the area, as no eruptions have been recorded for the past 31 million years.
WASHINGTON agenCieS
Strikes on three alleged narco-trafficking vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean killed eight people on Monday, according to the US military, as part of an ongoing campaign that has ended more than 90 lives. “Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and were engaged in narco-trafficking,” US Southern Command said in a post on X, adding that “a total of eight male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions-three in the first vessel, two in the second and three in the third”. The post includes video footage of three separate boats floating in water before they are each hit by strikes. Since early September, the US military under Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has targeted alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, destroying at least 26 vessels and killing at least 95 people. The strikes have been accompanied by a massive US military buildup in the Caribbean that includes the world’s largest aircraft carrier and a slew of other warships, with US President Trump insisting the goal is combatting narcotrafficking while Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro says he suspects it is a pretext for regime change in Caracas. During one of the first strikes, survivors of an initial attack on a boat were killed after the US launched a second strike on the vessel, a controversial move that has generated accusations of a possible war crime.
Uzbekistan–Japan: Expanding the boundaries of strategic partnership UZBEKISTAN
Staff CorreSpondent
In December 2025, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay an official visit to Japan and take part in the high-level Central Asia + Japan Dialogue summit. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states on 26 January 1992, the development of Uzbek–Japanese cooperation has been one of the key priorities of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific region. Based on mutual respect and trust, Tashkent and Tokyo are today building dynamic, multi-tiered cooperation covering politics, security, the economy, investment, innovation, education, culture, tourism, and interaction within regional formats. Japan has traditionally been a key strategic partner in modernizing industrial and energy infrastructure, advancing digital transformation, promoting sustainable development, and supporting progress in education, science, culture, and humanitarian exchange. Bilateral cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan is rich and dynamic. A turn-
ing point in the development of the dialogue was President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s official visit to Japan in December 2019, which gave a powerful impetus to the implementation of major joint economic, investment, and humanitarian projects and defined the longterm trajectory of bilateral engagement. On the international stage, Uzbekistan and Japan interact effectively within international organizations and support each other’s positions. Over the years, Uzbekistan has supported Japan’s candidacy to UN bodies more than 40 times, while Tokyo has cosponsored a number of UN General Assembly resolutions initiated by Uzbekistan, including resolutions on the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone, education and religious tolerance, youth support, and the role of parliaments in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The strategic nature of bilateral relations is also reflected in inter-parliamentary cooperation. Friendship groups operate within both national parliaments, regular meetings of the Uzbekistan–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Forum are held, mutual visits take place, and online
consultations and negotiations are conducted. Cooperation between the foreign ministries is likewise intensive. Since 2002, 19 rounds of political consultations have been held between the foreign ministries of the two countries. A significant milestone in this regard was the first Strategic Dialogue between the Foreign Ministers of Uzbekistan and Japan, held on 25 August 2025 in Tashkent. This new format underscored the long-term nature of bilateral engagement and the readiness of both sides to expand mutually beneficial cooperation across all areas. Regular contacts, telephone conversations, meetings on international platforms, and reciprocal visits by foreign ministers help coordinate positions on bilateral and multilateral issues and further intensify cooperation in other areas. Honorary consuls of Uzbekistan in Japan also play an important role in promoting interstate cooperation, actively contributing to the advancement of economic and cultural initiatives. Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan is developing dynamically and encompasses industry, energy, commu-
nications, infrastructure, innovation, transport, and the “green economy.” Trade between the two countries is conducted under the most-favored-nation regime, which has contributed to steady growth in bilateral trade turnover. In 2024, the Uzbek–Japanese Trade House opened in Nagoya, demonstrating Japan’s growing interest in expanding trade ties with Uzbekistan. Joint meetings of the Uzbekistan–Japan and Japan–Uzbekistan Committees on Economic Cooperation serve as the key coordination mechanism for bilateral economic projects. Today, 84 joint ventures with Japanese capital operate in Uzbekistan, and 13 major Japanese companies have representative offices in the country, working in the oil and gas, chemical, engineering, logistics, education, and tourism sectors. Japanese financial institutions play a strategic role in modernizing Uzbekistan’s economy. In January 2025, a loan agreement worth USD 150 million was signed in Tashkent with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the construction
and equipping of the Republican Center for Neurology and Stroke — a modern project that will represent an important step in advancing national healthcare. The cultural and humanitarian dimension of Uzbek–Japanese relations is distinguished by depth and emotional resonance. For more than two decades, the Uzbekistan– Japan Friendship Society, as well as the Fukushima–Uzbekistan Association and the Japan–Uzbekistan Association, have been actively operating. The Hiroshima Peace Stone installed in Tashkent and the Japanese Garden in the heart of the capital have become symbols of strong friendship between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Japan. Uzbekistan regularly hosts Japanese cultural festivals, film screenings, performances, and exhibitions. In turn, Uzbekistan widely showcases its cultural traditions in Japan — from national cuisine and traditional garments to music and dance. Such exchanges form a unique basis for friendship between the two nations, fostering mutual respect and strengthening longterm cooperation.
NEWS 07
Wednesday, 17 December 2025 | ISLAMABAD
CORPORATE CORNER
CCPO Directs to Ensure Zero-Tolerance on Loudspeaker Act Violations LAHORE
Staff report
Lahore Police in coordination with the district administration have stepped up action against violations of the Loudspeaker Act, arresting 1,357 people so far this year. According to the Police spokesperson, cases have been registered across the city against illegal use of loudspeakers, in line with Punjab government’s direction to maintain law & order. During ongoing crackdown, 279 arrests were made in City Division, 280 in Cantonment, 290 in Saddar, and 208 in Model Town areas. Capital City Police Officer Bilal Siddique Kamyana said that use of loudspeakers without legal permission will not be tolerated with a strict zero-tolerance policy in place. He emphasized that loudspeakers are allowed only for Azan and Friday sermons, while playing loud music at weddings and other events are completely banned.The CCPO directed divisional officers to coordinate closely with all stakeholders to ensure full compliance with the Loudspeaker Act and maintain peace in the city. He added that ongoing crackdown would continue to curb noise pollution and prevent public disturbances.
Music, Self-Expression and High Energy Take Center Stage at Spotify’s 2025 Wrapped Event
CM MARYAM NAWAZ ALLOTS 720 FREE APARTMENTS TO HOMELESS INDUSTRIAL WORKERS
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LAHORE
Staff report
HIEF Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif conducted a balloting ceremony for the allotment of 720 newly constructed apartments for homeless industrial workers in the Sundar Industrial Estate, marking a major welfare initiative for the province’s labour force.She formally inaugurated the balloting process by pressing a button and personally telephoned several successful applicants to congratulate them. She described the initiative as a reflection of a "motherly state,” adding that 720 hardworking families have now been settled in homes of their own, freeing them from the hardship of monthly rent and the fear of eviction. As directed by Chief Minister Punjab, widows and persons with disabilities will be allotted apartments without participating in the balloting process. She directed that special persons should be provided apartments on the ground floor to ensure ease of access and safety. She directed that successful allottees must be handed over possession of their apartments within seven days. She further directed that an additional 1872 apartments for industrial
workers should be completed within next 18 months. She directed that a bachelor hostel for 700 workers at the Quaid-eAzam Business Park in Sheikhupura should be completed within three months Provincial Minister for Labour, Mian Manshaullah Butt, briefed Chief Minister Punjab on the project, adding that the provision of free apartments, plots, and bach-
elor hostels for industrial workers is part of the vision of Quaid PML-N Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.Authorities concerned briefed Chief Minister Punjab that the Sundar Industrial Estate apartment project has been completed at a total cost of Rs 3.40 billion, with the cost of each apartment exceeding Rs 3.6 million.During the ceremony, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz
Sharif personally called an industrial worker, Nadeem Tahir, to congratulate him, advising him to keep his parents with him so as to properly look after them and attributing his success to their prayers. Officials apprised Chief Minister Punjab in the briefing that 5897 workers were declared eligible for the Worker Welfare Complex at Sundar Industrial Estate PhaseI.They added that out of allotted apartments, 480 have been reserved for industrial workers from Kasur, while 240 have been allocated to workers from Lahore. They briefed her that 672 apartments will be constructed in Sundar Phase-II, 656 in Multan and 544 in Warburton, Nankana Sahib. Authorities further briefed her that Jhang and Kamalia, labour colonies will be developed where 2,000 industrial workers will be provided free residential plots measuring three marlas each. They added that following completion of infrastructure development,1,300 industrial workers in Jhang and 700 in Kamalia will be provided free residential plots. Chief Minister Punjab reiterated her unflinching resolve to improving living standards of industrial workers across Punjab, emphasizing that the Punjab government will continue to prioritize their welfare and dignity in the province.
COMSATS University Randhawa briefs businessmen on moot Frontiers in future auction of CDA commercial plots Information Technology
concludes in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD
Staff report
KARACHI
Staff report
Spotify hosted its highly anticipated year-end celebration, 2025 Wrapped, in Karachi with an immersive event that placed music and selfexpression at the forefront. The evening brought together local artists, select influencers and media to celebrate a year shaped by personal taste and Pakistan’s evolving music culture.Anchored in this year’s unapologetic Wrapped theme, guests were invited to engage with music on their own terms. Interactive installations spotlighted fan obsessions, while neon-lit portrait booths captured unfiltered expressions throughout the venue. From sound to setting, every detail reinforced a single idea: this was a year to own your sound without filters.Hosted by Ayla Adnan, the evening came alive through a curated DJ lineup featuring Mouseeki Machine, ZULU and Disguise in Hoodie, each bringing their distinct energy and sound mixes to keep the crowd moving.
OGRA Intensifies Enforcement Drive to Ensure Compliance at Petrol Pumps
Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, held a meeting at CDA Headquarters with representatives of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry and investors. The meeting was attended by CDA Board Members, senior CDA officers, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sardar Tahir Mahmood, along the investors, real estate developers, builders and representatives of business companies. The purpose of the meeting was to exchange views regarding investment opportunities in the upcoming open auction of commercial and residential plots scheduled to be held on December 22, 23, and 24, 2025. Investors were briefed about the plots being offered for investment in the forthcoming auction. During the briefing, it was informed that commercial plots from various business centers, commercial plots in Blue Area and commercial
plots located in the Northern Strip of Sector E-11 would be offered for auction. Additionally, petrol pump sites, agro-farm plots and ready-to-operate shops in the Blue Area Parking Plaza will also be offered for investment. Similarly, residential plots in two fully developed sectors of Islamabad, namely Sector F-10 and Sector G-10 will also be auctioned. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that the revenue generated from the auction would be utilized for the development and uplift of the City. He said that the valuable suggestions of investors are always taken into consideration in the city’s
HBL Reinforces Commitment to Inclusive Growth with 2024 Impact Report KARACHI
development process. Chairman CDA further said that uplift work in all commercial centers of Islamabad has already been initiated. Chairman CDA said that all facilities would be ensured for investors on a priority basis after the auction. He added that multiple projects have been launched to transform the Federal Capital Islamabad into a model City. He said that future projects include the construction of a cricket stadium and seven-star hotels. He further mentioned initiatives such as the launch of the E-Stamp system, introduction of a cashless economy and digitization of land records.
Maritime Security Workshop MARSEW-8 Successfully Concluded in Lahore
Staff report
ISLAMABAD
Staff report
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has mobilized its enforcement teams from the Head Office and Regional Offices to conduct a comprehensive inspection of petrol pumps across their respective jurisdictions. The objective of this exercise is to verify the legality of operations, adherence to codal formalities, and compliance with OGRA’s rules and regulations.As part of this enforcement drive, Chairman OGRA, Mr. Masroor Khan, personally accompanied the enforcement teams during visits to various petrol pumps. During these inspections, the teams examined the validity of licenses, verification of mandatory documentation, and the availability of petroleum product stocks.Chairman OGRA emphasized the importance of strict compliance with regulatory requirements and directed the enforcement teams to ensure that all petrol pumps operate in accordance with OGRA’s prescribed rules, safety standards, and legal obligations. He reiterated OGRA’s commitment to maintaining transparency, consumer protection, and uninterrupted supply of petroleum products.OGRA will continue such inspections on a regular basis to deter illegal practices, ensure regulatory compliance, and safeguard public interest.
HBL, Pakistan’s premier financial services group, today launched its Impact & Sustainability Report 2024, highlighting the Group’s continued commitment to building an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for Pakistan. Guided by its majority shareholder, the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED), and a strong governance framework, HBL remains focused on delivering environmentally and socially responsible growth across its operations. The report highlights HBL’s efforts to expand access to finance in underserved areas, empower women entrepreneurs, strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural value chain through HBL Zarai Services, and support healthcare, education, arts, and humanitarian initiatives through HBL Foundation. It also reflects the Bank’s growing focus on environmental stewardship, including renewable energy adoption, green financing, and climate-resilient solutions. Covering the collective impact of HBL Bank, HBL Microfinance Bank, HBL Zarai Services, and HBL Foundation, the report showcases tangible outcomes across financial inclusion, agriculture and rural development, climate action, diversity and inclusion, and community uplift. Speaking on the launch, Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO – HBL, said: “At HBL, sustainability is not a parallel agenda — it is central to how we do business.
FBR Crackdown Against Largest Illicit Tobacco Setup in Mardan Lauded
KARACHI: The recent crackdown against the country's largest-ever illegal tobacco-processing setup has been widely praised as a significant milestone in combating illicit trade and protecting the national economy.The operation, conducted by the Regional Tax Office Peshawar, resulted in the seizure of undeclared machinery capable of producing up to 7,000 kilograms of processed tobacco per day. By proceeding without yielding to pressure or influence, the FBR has demonstrated firm resolve and strengthened its institutional commitment to protecting the national exchequer."This action by the FBR and other government authorities reflects the nation's determination to eliminate illicit trade networks that have long undermined Pakistan's economy. Such operations not only disrupt illegal manufacturing but also restore confidence among legitimate businesses committed to compliance and fair competition," said Osama Siddiqui , a macroeconomic analystHe added that the illicit tobacco market has crossed a 50 percent share in Pakistan, causing an estimated loss of over Rs. 400 billion to the national exchequer annually. If this trend continues, it will become extremely difficult for legal companies to sustain their businesses.Siddiqui urged that the crackdown on major illegal tobacco manufacturers and influential players in the illicit tobacco network must continue with full force. Staff report
ISLAMABAD
Staff report
The 22nd International Conference on Frontiers of Information Technology (FIT 2025), a flagship conference of the COMSATS University Islamabad concluded at COMSTECH Secretariat on Monday. The two-day event is Pakistan's premier ICT research forum brought together researchers and technology experts to discuss advances in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and Internet of Things applications under the theme Digital transformation and Innovation.FIT 2025 received 627 research submissions from 32 countries which is the highest number of research submission in the 2 decades history of the event. Following peer review, 99 papers were accepted and presented across eleven technical tracks and nineteen sessions rendering a 15% acceptance.Addressing the closing ceremony, Additional Secretary Rizwan Ahmed Sheikh on behalf of Ministry of Science and Technology commended COMSATS University for hosting the conference, describing FIT as one of Pakistan's most respected ICT forums of the country.
IGP Islamabad reviews Model Jail administration and traffic law enforcement
LAHORE
Staff report
The Maritime Security Workshop (MARSEW-8), organized by the Pakistan Navy War College, concluded successfully in Lahore, This workshop was organized by the Maritime Center of Excellence under the auspices of the Pakistan Navy War College. highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to maritime security and the blue economy. Participants termed it an honour to take part in the prestigious workshop. The certificate distribution ceremony was graced by Chairman Senate Senator Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Rear Admiral Sohail Azmie, President MCE. During the workshop, participants gained in-depth understanding of the importance of the blue economy, comprehensive naval war strategy, and maritime domain awareness. Practical demonstrations and fieldbased activities were conducted, providing real-time insights into maritime security operations. Speakers emphasized that Pakistan’s base camps are fully capable of securing Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs), reinforcing national maritime defense. However, it was noted that the challenge of “sea blindness” still exists, underscoring the need for greater public awareness and focused efforts in blue tourism and sustainable blue economy initiatives.
ISLAMABAD
Staff report
According to the details, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, chaired important meetings at the Central Police Office, Islamabad. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Prisons Ali Akbar, AIG General Inayat Ali Shah, AIG Establishment Shoaib Masood, Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Islamabad Hamza Humayun, Director Safe City and the Director Legal. During the meeting, IGP Islamabad conducted a detailed review of the administrative, security and operational affairs of the under-construction Model Jail. He directed all concerned officers to complete all arrangements related to the Model Jail within the stipulated time frame and emphasized that no negligence in construction or management would be tolerated. On this occasion, IGP Islamabad stated that the Model Jail should be established in accordance with modern facilities, an effective security system, and international standards to ensure better care of prisoners, protection of human rights, promotion of the rehabilitative system, and strict compliance with the law. He further added that the Model Jail should be equipped with modern rehabilitative facilities to facilitate the social reintegration of prisoners.
President administers oath to Federal Tax Ombudsman ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari today administered the oath of office of the Federal Tax Ombudsman to Zafar ul Haq Hijazi at Aiwan-e-Sadr.Zafar ul Haq Hijazi is a Chartered Accountant and Fellow Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan, with more than four decades of experience in taxation, corporate and capital market regulation, audit oversight, financial management and advisory services. He has previously served as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and Chairman of the Audit and Oversight Board of Pakistan.Following the oath-taking, Mr. Hijazi called on the President. During the meeting, President Zardari underlined the importance of raising public awareness about the role of the Federal Tax Ombudsman in facilitating taxpayers. He advised the Ombudsman to make effective use of modern technology to improve the timely disposal of complaints.The President stressed that the office of the Federal Tax Ombudsman must ensure speedy and cost-free relief for aggrieved citizens and continue to expand its outreach across the country. Staff rep ort
GOVT TO SEEK CABINET APPROVAL FOR NATIONAL GEMSTONES POLICY NEWS
POLICY TARGETS VALUE ADDITION, QUALITY CERTIFICATION AND EXPORT REVIVAL THROUGH INCENTIVES AND REGULATORY REFORMS
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HE Ministry of Industries and Production on Tuesday finalised the country’s National Gemstones Policy, aimed at boosting value addition and reviving exports in a sector that has remained largely untapped despite vast potential. As per details the policy, which will be submitted to the federal cabinet for approval, seeks to transform the gemstones industry into a competitive, export-oriented sector by aligning quality standards with international benchmarks and introducing targeted incentives. The policy was finalised at a meeting chaired by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, and attended by the secretary of the ministry, the chief executive of the Pakistan Stone Development Company, representatives of local and
foreign firms, and officials from provincial mining and minerals departments. Officials noted that Pakistan’s gemstone sector continues to suffer from high wastage, limited value addition and weak export performance. Due to unscientific
IHC orders re-recording of evidence in Imaan, Hadi case ISLAMABAD
Pakistan reiterates bid to join BRICS, eyes wider trade and investment ties PROFIT
monitorinG deSk
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The Islamabad High Court on Tuesday directed a trial court to re-record the statements of prosecution witnesses in the controversial social media posts case against rights activist Imaan Mazari-Hazir and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, setting a three-day deadline for the process. Justice Muhammad Azam Khan issued the order while hearing a petition filed by Mazari challenging a November 19 trial court decision under which prosecution witnesses were examined despite objections from the defence. The high court observed that witness testimonies should be recorded afresh and referred the matter back to the trial court, clarifying that it was not commenting on the merits of the case. During the hearing, defence counsel Riasat Ali Azad informed the court that senior advocate Faisal Siddiqui had submitted his power of attorney but was unavailable due to professional commitments in Lahore. He requested that proceedings be taken up after court vacations. Azad also pointed out that the Supreme Court had already instructed that the case be decided expeditiously, although no specific timeline had been set. Last week, the apex court had stayed trial proceedings until the Islamabad High Court disposed of the pending appeals. The prosecutor, Raja Naveed, told the court that the complete case record was available. However, the defence argued that the accused were entitled to safeguards under Article 10A of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair trial, and maintained that procedural requirements had not been properly followed. Justice Khan questioned whether the statements of four prosecution witnesses had been recorded in the absence of one of the accused. In response, the prosecutor said the conduct of the accused was also relevant to the proceedings.
Attack on polio team in KP’s Bajaur leaves two dead BAJAUR
Staff CorreSpondent
extraction and processing methods, wastage of up to 50 per cent occurs at various stages, while exports have remained stuck at around $5–7 million annually. During the meeting, specialised working groups on import–export, banking and
At least two people, including a police constable assigned to protect a vaccination team, were killed on Tuesday after gunmen opened fire during Pakistan’s nationwide polio campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district, police said. The incident occurred in the Thangi area of Salarzai tehsil, a day after authorities launched the final countrywide polio drive of 2025, which is scheduled to continue until December 21. Police Public Relations Officer Israr Khan said unidentified assailants targeted the security detail accompanying a polio team. Constable Sajad Ahmed sustained critical injuries and later succumbed, while a civilian passerby was shot dead when he attempted to pursue the attackers. Local residents confirmed the incident, while the assailants fled the scene. Police said a search operation was launched soon after the attack. No polio workers were harmed. The killing adds to a long list of attacks targeting vaccination efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where militants have repeatedly targeted health workers and their security escorts. Official data shows that in 2024 alone, at least 20 people were killed and 53 injured during polio campaigns in KP.
finance, and return and refund mechanisms presented their recommendations for inclusion in the policy framework. Mr Khan said the policy had been developed after extensive consultations with experts and stakeholders, adding that it focuses on accelerating growth, promoting value addition and improving regulatory oversight. To stimulate the sector, the government plans to offer targeted financing, streamlined facilitation and smart incentives. The policy also proposes the establishment of a statutory authority to serve as the custodian of the policy, facilitate businesses and ensure coordination among relevant agencies. In addition, a National Warranty Office is proposed, along with commercial desks at airports to support gemstone exporters. The warranty office would provide an integrated and transparent system for packaging, certification and export documentation, while helping introduce regulatory reforms across the sector.
Pakistan has reiterated its desire to join the BRICS grouping, with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb saying the country could play a constructive role within the bloc as it expands engagement with regional and global partners. In interviews with Russia’s RIA Novosti and Azerbaijan’s Report Information Agency, Aurangzeb outlined Pakistan’s economic priorities, focusing on macroeconomic stability, trade expansion and investment-led growth. He noted that Pakistan is already an active member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and sees scope to contribute within the BRICS framework. Speaking to RIA Novosti, the finance minister said Pakistan would also explore alternative cross-border payment mechanisms as discussions evolve within BRICS. He stressed that ensuring
macroeconomic stability remains the government’s top priority, as investor confidence depends on currency stability, profit repatriation and economic certainty. Aurangzeb said Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves are steadily improving and nearing coverage of three months of imports. He added that sovereign guarantees and export credit agency support could be considered on a project-by-project basis to mitigate country risk. On digital assets, he said the State Bank of Pakistan is evaluating digital currencies, given the large number of Pakistanis engaged in cryptocurrency activity. He said the government aims to bring the sector into a regulated framework through a virtual assets regulatory authority, while addressing risks related to capital flows, compliance and antimoney laundering standards. The finance minister also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence in sectors such as
agriculture, finance, healthcare and digital infrastructure, noting that Pakistan’s large freelancer base could benefit from higher productivity. He said Pakistan is interested in learning from Russia’s experience in applying AI in public finance and budgeting, while maintaining human oversight. On regional connectivity, Aurangzeb underscored the importance of trade corridors, including the International North-South Transport Corridor. He identified energy, oil and gas, minerals, mining and industrial cooperation, including a possible steel plant, as areas of potential collaboration with Russia. In his interview with REPORT, Aurangzeb said Pakistan’s relations with Azerbaijan are translating into economic outcomes, with trade and investment flows gaining momentum. He noted that Azerbaijan has expressed interest in investing close to $2 billion in Pakistan, particularly in energy, oil and gas, and minerals and mining.
Aleema Khan says family forced to protest after being denied meeting with Imran at Adiala Jail RAWALPINDI
Staff report
Aleema Khan, sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, said on Tuesday that the family had been left with no choice but to stage a protest after being repeatedly prevented from meeting him at Adiala Jail. Speaking to the media near the factory check-post, Aleema said the family was acting within the law. “We are not doing anything illegal or unconstitutional. If we are stopped every week, what option do we have other than protest?” she asked. Aleema Khan, along with Imran Khan’s sisters Noreen Khan and Dr Uzma Khan and senior PTI leaders, arrived near Adiala Jail for a scheduled family meeting. However, despite Tuesday being designated for family and lawyers’ visits, jail authorities informed them at around 4pm that the meeting would not be allowed. Warning that the family would not leave if the meeting was denied, Aleema said they were holding a peaceful sit-in. “If they do not allow the meeting, so be it. We are sitting here peacefully. Today, we have even brought blankets with us,” she said. Security around Adiala Jail was
tightened significantly, with additional police contingents deployed, water cannons positioned at Gate No 5, and barricades placed at multiple entry points, including Gorakhpur and the factory check-post. Markets in nearby areas were closed, petrol pumps shut down, and both public and private schools were given the day off. PTI workers also began gathering near the jail amid the heightened security. Aleema Khan said Imran Khan’s demands were limited to constitutional principles. “The founder’s demand is the restoration of the Constitution, democracy and the rule of law,” she said, adding that he had been incarcerated for over two and a half years. Questioning the repeated denial of meetings, she asked why Imran Khan’s family was not being allowed to meet him as permitted under the law. “The government should explain why the PTI founder’s family is being denied access,” she said. Referring to broader issues, Aleema said the closure of Afghan trade had led to widespread job losses and claimed that the judiciary’s constitutional independence had been undermined. “Conditions in Pakistan are going from bad to worse,” she added.
She also questioned restrictions placed on conversations during jail meetings. “If there was a discussion about the army chief, what is the issue? The government should clarify what political discussion my sister allegedly held during the previous meeting,” she said. Speaking on the occasion, Noreen Niazi rejected allegations of violence and criticised police action. “We are not terrorists. PTI is a peaceful party. Water cannons were used against us and people were injured. The Punjab Police is acting like a terrorist force,” she said. Senior PTI leader Salman Akram Raja, addressing the media at the factory check-post, called for broader solidarity. “Coming here is not only the responsibility of members of parliament. Anyone who believes in democracy and the supremacy of law should be here,” he said. Raja described restrictions on conversations during jail meetings as unlawful, saying no law allowed authorities to dictate what an individual could discuss. “How can anyone tell a human being what they are allowed to talk about?” he asked. He also referred to the deteriorating security situation, calling the APS tragedy deeply painful and warning that terrorism was once again resurging.
Wednesday, 17 December, 2025
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Former Punjab CM Mian Manzoor Wattoo passes away 6:20
PESHAWAR
Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi on Tuesday imposed a complete ban on the use of mobile phones during duty hours by hospital administrations, government school teachers and all government employees, taking notice of public complaints over negligence in service delivery. The directive was issued during a surprise late-night visit to Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), where the chief minister listened to complaints from patients and their attendants regarding poor administration and
lack of attention by hospital staff. According to a spokesperson for the Chief Minister House, citizens complained that patients were often left unattended for extended periods while hospital staff and administrators remained busy on their mobile phones during duty hours, adversely affecting treatment and patient care. The chief minister warned that negligence in public service due to mobile phone usage would not be tolerated under any circumstances and said strict action would be taken against violators. He urged members of the public to report such violations by recording videos of doctors or staff members using mobile phones
while on duty and forwarding them to the authorities for immediate action. “You send the complaint, the rest is my responsibility,” the chief minister said, adding that a dedicated complaint cell was being activated to ensure swift redressal of public grievances. He also directed the hospital administration to ensure the immediate provision of quality medical facilities and warned that officials found negligent in performing their duties would face strict disciplinary action. The chief minister reiterated that improving healthcare services and restoring public trust in government institutions remain among the top priorities of his government.
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OKARA
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Former Chief Minister of Punjab and senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Mian Manzoor Wattoo passed away on Tuesday. He was 86. His grandson, columnist Hassan Kamal Wattoo, posted about the former CM’s demise on social media platform X. “With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of my beloved grandfather, Mian Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo,” he said, adding that funeral prayers would be held at the Wasawewala stadium in Okara at 2pm on Wednesday. According to sources, Mian Manzoor Wattoo had been suffering from a prolonged illness. The schedule for his funeral prayers will be announced later. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep grief over his demise, a post on the Presidency’s X account said. It added that the president paid tribute to Wattoo’s “invaluable public service, role in strengthening democracy, and contributions to national unity”. State-run APP reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condoled his death, saying in a statement that “services of late Manzoor Wattoo for the country’s politics will always be remembered”. The politician was first elected chairman of the Okara district council in 1983 and became a member of the Punjab Assembly in 1985. He was also elected speaker of the assembly at the time. In 1988, Wattoo was again elected as an MPA (independent) and soon joined the Nawaz Sharif-led Pakistan Muslim League, which was part of Islami Jamhoori Ittehad (IJI) at the time. This time too, Wattoo became speaker of the house. In 1993, he was elected as MNA and MPA from the IJI’s platform but opted to remain in Punjab, becoming speaker for the third time in a row. After the 1993 election, Wattoo dislodged the provincial government of PML-N’s Ghulam Haider Wyne through a vote of no-confidence and became the chief minister with PPP’s support. The PPP, which had been unable to recapture Punjab, had to accept Wattoo as chief minister in exchange for the PML-Junejo’s support for it in Islamabad. Back then, Wattoo had with him just 17 MPAs in the provincial assembly against the PPP’s 92. After Wattoo had a fall out with PPP in 1995, thenprime minister Benazir Bhutto installed Arif Nakai, another PML-Junejo man, as the new chief minister.
ATC frees four PTI activists in October 5 protest case LAHORE
Staff report
Four Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers were released by an anti-terrorism court on Tuesday in connection with the October 5 protest in Shafiqabad, in which violence against police had been reported. The accused — Muhammad Nihal, Zeeshan Siddiqui, Ghulam Mustafa, and Muhammad Majeed — had completed a seven-day physical remand and were presented before ATC Judge Manzer Ali Gill. The prosecution requested additional custody to continue the investigation, but the defence countered, asserting that the charges were baseless and urging the court to release the defendants. The court asked whether any incriminating evidence had been recovered during the remand. The investigating officer confirmed that no recoveries had been made. Citing the absence of evidence, the court refused the prosecution’s request for extended remand and discharged all four individuals from the case. The Shafiqabad police had registered the case following allegations of arson and clashes with law enforcement during the October 5 PTI protest. The court’s decision clears the accused of all charges in the matter.
Punjab introduces new traffic fines, including Rs200,000 penalty for specific violations LAHORE
Staff report
Punjab has introduced a revised traffic law under the Provincial Motor Vehicle Ordinance (Fourth Amendment) 2025, imposing significantly higher fines and stricter penalties for various traffic violations. The new ordinance, which came into effect on December 1, sets fines ranging from Rs2,000 to Rs200,000, a significant increase from the previous law, which imposed fines between Rs200 and Rs5,000. The revisions also criminalize several violations, including overspeeding, traffic signal violations, and overloading. A notable change is the introduction of jail terms for specific offenses. For instance, individuals caught performing dangerous stunts, such as one-wheeling on a motorcycle, can face up to six months in prison or a fine of Rs5,000. Repeat offenders may face up to two years in jail or a fine of Rs10,000. Furthermore, the ordinance mandates that anyone who sells or alters a vehicle in violation of the new rules can be punished with imprisonment for up to two years, a fine up to Rs200,000, or both. Waqas Nazir, Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Police Punjab, confirmed the updated fines, which were officially announced on November 25.
KP bans mobile phone use during duty hours for all govt employees Staff report
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Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk