EpaperISB_20-12-2

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020 I 15 Rabi al-Akhir, 1442 I Rs 15.00 I Vol XI No 153 I 12 Pages I Islamabad Edition

Pakistan sees highest daily coronavirus fatalities in five months g

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g NIH proposes rapId 67 succuMb to paNdeMIc IN 24 Hours; posItIve cases cross grIM dIagNostIc test to 400,000 MIlestoNe detect vIrus MIrpur posItIvIty rate sHoots up to 20.62pc

ISLAMABAD staff report

a

t least 67 people lost their lives to covid-19 in pakistan over the past 24 hours, the highest daily virusrelated deaths in five months, the government portal keeping track of the pandemic announced. after a peak of over 6,800 daily infections in June, the number fell to a low of 213 in august and remained below 700 for most of the last three months. Infections picked up steadily in November after educational institutes and remaining businesses, including hospitality resumed. pakistan is currently in the midst of a second wave of the coronavirus, having just crossed 400,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. data issued by the National command and operations centre (Ncoc) shows the total death toll from the virus had risen to 8,091 with 2,458 fresh infections over the last 24 hours. the historical case positivity rate stands at 7.2 per cent while Monday’s rate was 6 per cent. the highest case positivity rate was observed in Mirpur at 20.62 percent, followed

by peshawar at 19.58 per cent and Hyderabad at 19.03 per cent. Karachi recorded a positivity ratio of 13.9 per cent, abbottabad 11.21 per cent, Multan 10.66 per cent and rawalpindi 9.27 per cent.

Meanwhile, the forum was also briefed on the National Institute of Health (NIH)’s proposed policy to initiate rapid antigen testing (rat) for the virus in hospitals nationwide, radio pakistan reported.

NIH executive director Maj gen dr aamir Ikram said that all provinces had been consulted prior to devising a unified strategy in accordance with international standards.

He said that authorities had availed recommendations of the World Health organisation (WHo) and other reputable groups to frame a policy that would detect the disease swiftly and under strict controls. according to dr Ikram, the first phase would allow all government-authorised public sector laboratories to perform the rat tests. He said that provincial authorities had been granted the discretion to determine whether private labs could also conduct these tests, adding that this would only be permitted for labs that were already performing the rt-pcr tests.

coronavirus in

Pakistan

CONFIRMED CASES:

400,482

LAST UPDATED AT 7:35 AM ON DECEMBER 1, 2020

DAY'S DEATH TOLL:

67

RECOVERED:

NEW CASES:

2,458 DEATHS:

343,286 8,091 SINDH:

PUNJAB:

174,350

119,578

KP:

BALOCHISTAN:

AJK/GB:

ISLAMABAD:

47,370

17,187

6,933/4,658 30,406

the participants were informed private labs would have to be officially authorised by provincial or regional authorities to conduct the rat tests to ensure their data could be accurately reflected in the official statistics. the provinces also updated the Ncoc about their views on the rat testing, adding that necessary arrangements were underway to allow all major hospitals to participate in the testing. the government has recently imposed fresh restrictions across the country although prime Minister Imran Khan has, repeatedly, ruled out a sweeping quarantine, saying the nation would have to “learn to live with” the virus and take extra precautions. the authorities have recently made wearing face masks mandatory in public spaces, banned public rallies, limited large public gatherings to 300 people, banned indoor weddings, closed shrines, cinemas, and theaters, and instructed public and private offices to adopt a workfrom-home policy.

Meanwhile, a smart lockdown was imposed by the district administration in five areas of peshawar on tuesday. coronavirus cases are fast increasing in the city. deputy commissioner ali asghar said that the move aims to prevent the spread of the virus. sectors e-vI and N-Iv of Hayatabad, university town, park road and old Jamrud road, Hayatabad Industrial estate, and peshawar cantt area will be under the smart lockdown. No gatherings are allowed in these areas and congregations in mosques have been restricted to five people. all shops except pharmacies, food supplies, tandoors and general stores will remain closed. the federal government has also closed all educational institutes from November 26 to January 10 and postponed all examinations except admissions and recruitment tests.

Govt approves $150m grant to procure Covid-19 vaccine ISLAMABAD staff report

the federal cabinet has approved the grant of $150 million to procure covid-19 vaccine, which it hopes will be available to the public in the first quarter of 2021. this was announced by special assistant to the prime Minister (sapM) on National Health services dr Faisal sultan along with Minister for Information and broadcasting shibli Faraz while giving details about decisions taken by the federal cabinet, which met in Islamabad on tuesday. dr Faisal confirmed that the cabinet approved the economic coordination committee’s (ecc) recommendation to allocate $150 million to acquire a vaccine for the novel coronavirus. the sapM said that the vaccine is a “moving target”, but added, “I think its first stage will be possible in the first quarter of 2021.”

He also said that for this purpose, few companies have been shortlisted, contacted and initial conversation has been started with them. He added that the vaccine would be administered in stages; the first stage would provide the vaccine to frontline healthcare workers, the second stage would facilitate the elderly and at-risk population, and in the third stage it would be available to the general public. “the government will fund this [and] take on this responsibility so nobody will be burdened,” he further said.

“In a nutshell, the federal govern-

Pakistan rejects Indian criticism of OIC resolution on Kashmir ISLAMABAD staff report

pakistan has registered rejection to Indian criticism of the statement of organisation of Islamic cooperation (oIc) reaffirming its support to Islamabad on the Kashmir dispute. last week, the annual session of the 57-country Muslim bloc unanimously pilloried New delhi for stripping the occupied region of its semi-autonomous status and the ensuing measures aimed at changing the demography of the Muslimmajority state. responding to the resolution, India’s Ministry of external affairs (Mea) on sunday “strongly rejected” the references to its policy in occupied Kashmir, the Hindu reported, and, hinting at pakistan, said the forum was being used by that country for a “campaign” against India.

However, the Foreign office (Fo), in a statement issued late Monday night, rejected the “flimsy contention” of Kashmir being India’s “internal issue”.

“Jammu and Kashmir is one of the oldest internationally recognized disputes on the agenda of the united Nations security

ment approved that a procedure be adopted as soon as possible to make possible the procurement of a safe and effective vaccine,” the sapM said, adding that the government will be open to tapping more than one source “including Western and chinese manufacturers”.

Furthermore, the price of the 100-milligram injection of remdesivir, a drug used to treat covid-19 patients in specific conditions, has been slashed from rs9,244 to rs5,660 in view of prevailing international prices, dr Faisal said. commenting on pdM’s recent public rally in Multan, Minister for Information and broadcasting shibli Faraz urged the opposition not to play with the lives of people for its personal gains as the second wave of coronavirus is at its peak in the country.

He said that public rallies are banned to protect people from the coronavirus and the government will deal with the violators legally instead of putting hard restrictions. the minister said that in tuesday’s meeting, the cabinet was apprised on the latest development of the ravi and bundal Island projects. It was informed that investors have expressed their full satisfaction on the steps taken for the development of the construction sector by prime Minister Imran Khan, therefore, they are willing to invest in these megaprojects.

He said that the forum was informed that these projects are planned to keep the environment clean and attract foreign investment.

more inside

Pakistan-China ties remain anchor of peace, stability in region and beyond: PM STORY ON PAGE 02

council, which remains unresolved because of India’s intransigence and unwillingness to implement relevant uNsc resolutions and its own solemn commitments made to pakistan, the Kashmiris, and the international community,” read its statement.

It said that the resolution was a “forceful repudiation” of India’s legally untenable contention that held Kashmir was its “internal” matter. “the oIc resolution is further proof that India can neither hide its gross and systemic violations of human rights of the Kashmiri people and the denial of their inalienable right to self-

determination nor can it escape international censure of its egregious behavior.” advising New delhi to “pay heed” to the international community’s concerns over its actions in annexed Jammu and Kashmir, the statement said it should halt its “state-terrorism” in the disputed region.

It also urged India to “end its illegal and forcible occupation of IIoJK [Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir], and take concrete steps towards the solution of the dispute in accordance with the uN security council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.”

punjab govt decides to file cases against pdM leaders for violating covid sops STORY ON PAGE 02

SC seeks records of billion tree tsunami project STORY ON PAGE 02

Iranian Mps seek hardening of nuclear stance after scientist killed STORY ON BACK PAGE

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Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

NEWS

PAkIstAN-ChINA tIes remAIN ANChor of PeACe, stAbIlIty IN regIoN ANd beyoNd: Pm ISLAMABAD

P

STAFF REPORT

RIMe Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday emphasised that Pakistan-China ties remain an anchor for peace and stability in the region and beyond, and that both countries may further deepen strategic communication and coordination to deal with the emerging challenges and threats.

He was talking to Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Defence General Wei Fenghe who called on him.

General Wei is leading a high-level delegation to Pakistan on a three-day official visit. His visit is aimed at further solidifying and expanding PakistanChina ties.

Welcoming the defence minister’s visit

to Pakistan, the prime minister underscored the importance of regular high-level exchanges, even in the time of Covid-19. He stressed that the two countries were bound by ‘all-weather strategic cooperative partnership’ based on mutual trust, understanding and commonality of views. The premier said that Pakistan firmly adhered to One-China policy and supported China on issues of its core national interest.

General Wei Fenghe conveyed warm greetings of President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang to the prime minister and underscored the importance the Chinese leadership attached to China’s relations with Pakistan.

The prime minister warmly reciprocated the greetings and recalled his past meetings and exchange with President

Xi and Premier Li. He appreciated China’s development model that had lifted millions of people out of poverty and added that Pakistan wished to emulate this example.

The prime minister deeply appreciated China’s principled support on Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of India’s unilateral and illegal actions of 5 August 2019.

He underlined the serious threat posed

by RSS-BJP dispensation through belligerent actions, discriminatory measures against Indian minorities, and the harshest steps to curb all the freedoms of innocent Kashmiris in the Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK).

These and other steps highlighted India’s hegemonic designs and expansionist agenda, which was imperiling peace and stability in the region, he added.

PM Imran appreciated China’s consistent support to Pakistan in pursuit of Pakistan’s national development goals.

He appreciated China’s success in dealing with Covid-19 pandemic and thanked the government and people of China for extending solidarity and material support to Pakistan to manage Covid-19 pandemic.

The prime minister underscored that the China-Pakistan economic Corridor (CPeC), a signature project of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), was transformational and stressed that the economic and social impact of CPeC on the region will be substantial and beneficial.

General Wei Fenghe underlined that Pakistan was China’s close friend, good neighbor and ‘iron brother’.

Punjab govt decides to file cases against Pdm leaders for violating Covid soPs NEWS DESK

Indian troops martyred 15 kashmiris in November SRINAGAR INP

In Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK), Indian troops, in their unabated acts of state terrorism, martyred 15 Kashmiris during the last month of November.

According to the data issued by the Research Section of Kashmir Media Service, of those killed, one youth was martyred in custody and four in a fake encounter. During the month, 97 youth were critically injured due to use of brute force by Indian police and paramilitary personnel in the occupied territory while 31 people, mostly youth and activists, were arrested, several of them under black law Public Safety Act. The police personnel also misbehaved with at least seven women and damaged a house during the period.

President Alvi confers Nishan-e-Imtiaz on Chinese minister ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

President Dr. Arif Alv on Tuesday conferred Nishane-Imtiaz (Military) on visiting Chinese Minister of National Defence General Wei Fenghe in recognition of his services for further promoting and strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries, Radio Pakistan reported. A special investiture ceremony was held at the presidency in Islamabad where the president pinned the medal of the Chinese minister. The ceremony was attended by a number of federal ministers, services chiefs and other senior officials. Pakistan and China on Monday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the enhancement of defence cooperation between the armies of the two countries. Prior to the signing of the MoU, General Fenghe called on Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the General Headquarters (GHQ) for a meeting wherein they discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security and enhanced bilateral defence collaboration.

Nawaz struggling for democracy, supremacy of parliament, claims Dar FORMER FOREIGN MINISTER CLAIMS HE OWNS ONLY ONE PROPERTY ISLAMABAD TLTP

Former finance minister Ishaq Dar has claimed that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supreme leader Nawaz Sharif is struggling for democracy and supremacy of the parliament in Pakistan and the current government is a form of 'judicial martial law'.

Speaking on BBC's 'Hard Talk', the now absconding former minister alleged he does not accuse the army, as an institution, of undermining the democratic process in Pakistan but stated that "it is the will and plan of some people, the same people who enforce martial law in Pakistan".

When Dar was asked if the army or the army chief were undermining democracy, he said that the PML-N is not alone and international reports also have said the same. "I am not talking about the entire institution, we need to differentiate. These are the wishes and plans of certain people, the same people who enforce martial law in Pakistan."

"We are saying that if the elections were rigged, and this has now been proven, without doubt, someone is planning the entire thing. This is not us saying it, but the interior minister of Pakistan said that if Nawaz Sharif did not have issues with the institutions and the deep state, he would have become prime minister for the fourth time."

When asked if he had come to London seeking refuge as he is an absconder in Pakistan, the former finance minister said that corruption allegations have been used repeatedly in the country's history and in the present

circumstances, the current government is a "judicial martial law".

"I can prove that the allegations levelled against me are baseless and my name was not in the Panama Papers.

I can provide proof against the accusations."

When the anchor confronted Dar by saying that Pakistan's accountability watchdog had scrutinised his accounts and found them not in order, Dar said that was not the case. "A joint investigation team was set up and it had two military officers among others, they were actually overseeing the entire affair."

"NAB lost its significance some time ago. It's an institution that is used for political revenge against opponents. Dar, when asked how many properties are under his ownership, said he believes in transparency and has "declared all his assets in his statements".

When the anchor stated that news reports state that he and his family members own properties in Dubai and London, the former minister claimed the accusations were not true and he only has "one property" and added that his children are independent businessmen, hence their properties or assets have nothing to do with him.

Coming to the defence of his party chief, Dar said both the cases against Nawaz failed to prove any corruption.

Dar was declared an absconder in late 2017. He has been absconding court proceedings since 2017 following the registration of reference against him. Later, NAB confiscated his various bank accounts worth Rs500 million and his house, spread over four kanals and seven marlas in Gulberg, Lahore.

SC seeks records of billion tree tsunami project ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Almost two months after multiple corruption probes were launched against the Billion Tree Tsunami (BTT) project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday took notice of the federal government’s ambitious initiative, summoning the federal climate change secretary to submit all records of the project.

A two-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Ijazul Ahsan, while hearing a case pertaining to tree plantation on the banks of rivers and canals, wondered where the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration planted 500,000 trees as it had earlier said. “You must have planted all the trees in Bani Gala,” the chief justice remarked in an apparent reference to the residence of Prime Minister Imran Khan. “Trees are being cut down in Islamabad. Crooked trees have been

planted on Kashmir Highway. There is no beauty in the trees planted,” he said. “There are no trees in Nathia Gali, Malam Jabba, and even Murree,” he remarked.

Capital Development Authority (CDA) climate director said the organisation had not been properly funded for two years. The federal cabinet in July last year approved Rs7.5 billion for the project with the government saying Pakistan required special attention to counter the impact of climate change.

The first phase of the project, it said later in September, would span four years and see the plantation of 3.29 billion saplings. In its original plan, the government had said Rs109.38 billion of the sum would be allocated for forest development, with provincial governments footing Rs38 billion of this bill.

Additionally, the government had also announced to allocate Rs15.59 billion to preserve wildlife and Rs210 million for the Green Pakistan Programme. At the time, it also highlighted the success of the BTT

In light of the failure of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) to follow the coronavirus guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs), as well as incidents of vandalism, during the Multan rally, the Punjab government has decided to file a case against the anti-government alliance. ”Among the organisers, 22 belong to PML-N, 16 to PPP, and 13 are of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F),” said Special Assistant to Chief Minister on Information Dr Firdous Awan while addressing a press conference, adding that cases will be filed against as of yet unidentified persons as well. She said that PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman gave sticks to the workers for clashing with the police. but the government acted consciously instead of overzealously. Further criticising Fazl, she said the parliament does not function to satisfy an individual’s desires.

“When they bring the no-confidence motion, we will see then […] For now, these are blackmailing techniques.” The special assistant claimed that the fire which had erupted at the start of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) Vice President Maryam Nawaz’s speech was due to a PML-N worker’s fireworks. Talking about the incident of arson during the Multan rally, she said that a case has been registered against former PML-N MPA Shahid on the complaint of the owner of the cardboard warehouse. In response to the opposition’s claims of success at the rally, the special assistant said that the drone footage had been used in a way to make it seem like more people were present than there actually were.

Shortly after Firdous’ press conference, Multan police said that they had registered cases against PDM leaders for holding Multan rally despite restrictions. The FIR lodged against the opoosition leaders includes the violation of coronavirus SOPs, and sound act, the police confirmed.

project by the KP government, which it said has also been acknowledged by international bodies.

During Tuesday’s hearing, the court issued contempt of court notices to the provincial governments of Sindh and Punjab over their failure to submit reports on their tree plantation projects. The chief justice also scolded the Sindh government, ordering it to plant trees along lakes and highways. He said its affairs were “beyond comprehension” and they appeared to be “run differently” than the rest of the country.

He said that the government should not pay travel and “dearness” allowances to Sindh officials who appeared in court, adding if they continued to resist court orders, they could be found in contempt of court and sent to jail. Addressing the KP Pakhtunkhwa environment secretary, Justice Gulzar accused his entire department of being thieves. “You are the head of that department; you should be sent to jail,” he said.

“Naran Kaghan has become a heap of garbage.

There are no trees around lakes and thousands of trees have been cut down in Kumrat. I have seen the trees being cut down myself. No one should be allowed to cut them down,” he said. The court directed the government to provide complete details of the funds spent on the project thus far, including records of expenditure and their justification, as well as the total count of trees planted along with photographic evidence and satellite imaging.

03

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

Ufone paving the way for a connected pakistan

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N the last decade, telecom sector has undergone a massive change; the advent of 3G/4G services has created numerous opportunities. The rapid technological advancements have allowed people to get seamless internet services, superior experience & round the clock connectivity. Telecom companies in Pakistan are gradually going through the process of digital transformation; enabling people to not only enjoy phone services, but also benefit from a multitude of other amenities as well.

One of the key players in Pakistan’s telecom sector today is Ufone. The Pakistani telecom operator has grown to be one of the most reliable brands for customers, always focusing on convenience and satisfaction. Established in 2001, Ufone has proven itself to be a customer centric brand, always thinking about their preferences.

In the past two decades, Ufone has introduced many such offers and initiatives which have allowed people to enjoy services at an affordable rate. One of its industryleading flagship products is Ufone Super Card which has become a preferred choice for consumers.

Even during the time of Coronavirus, when the country went into a lockdown, Ufone stepped up and left no stone unturned in ensuring that people are facilitated through various channels. Whether it was strategic partnerships with relief agencies or introduction of affordable offers, Ufone consistently provided solutions to customers which made their life easier. Ufone also allowed free access to the Government of Pakistan emergency helplines for Corona call centers, labs, hospitals and ambulances, including free access to Pakistan Red Crescent to allow for easy and immediate access to Corona relief centers. The COVID awareness messages were broadcasted on mass media throughout the period for safety and prevention tips. Moreover, subsidized

recharge offers and free fund transfer facilities were provided for ease of access to top-ups during the lockdowns.

The focus as Ufone is not just on provision of seamless services; rather the brand aspires to celebrate the people of Pakistan and acknowledge their efforts. Ufone has always prioritized its people and that remains the biggest strength of the brand to date. Ufone has been instrumental in highlighting individuals such as Parveen Saeed and by doing so, they have not only opened our eyes to our everyday life’s heroes but also brought forward Pakistan & Pakistanis in a positive light. Recently, during Karachi torrential rains, the company partnered with Parveen’s Khana Ghar to provide cooked meals to affected population in Yousaf Goth and Surjani Town areas.

Although the brand has presence all over Pakistan but one region where Ufone’s footprint is the strongest is Balochistan. It has worked on multiple initiatives to engage and empower the people of Balochistan; one of its most successful ventures being Ufone Balochistan Football Tournament which helped to unearth raw talent of the province. More than 1000 footballers got a chance to participate in the biggest tournament of the region.

In recognition of its efforts, Ufone has won two prestigious Effie Awards in 2020: a Gold award for Best in Internet & Telecom category and a Bronze award in Best and Internet & Telecom for Balochistan Football Cup 2019.

The brand has also won two Eventex Global Awards in Gold categories for Ufone Balochistan Football Cup this year. Amongst 444 entries from 39 countries, Ufone emerged as the winner in two categories i.e. People’s Choice Award and Best CSR Event Award.

Another key priority for Ufone is serving the unserved. Balochistan has a huge uncovered population.

There are many areas in Balochistan where people have absolutely no access to any form of mobile service.

National Day (United Arab Emirates)

U

AE National Day (Arabic Al Yawm Al Watani) is celebrated on 2 December each year in the United Arab Emirates. The seventh emirate, Ra’s al-Khaimah, was added to the federation on 10 February 1972 making it the last state to join.

The National day of UAE stands for the nationalisation from the British Protectorate Treaties which were declared in 1968 and also falls on the anniversary of the federal unification of the seven emirates in 1971 which combined to form the modern-day country, headed by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the federation's first president. Grand celebrations are held across the country to mark the event.

Fireworks, car rallies and dance shows are the most common activities. Over 57% of UAE residents anticipate to see famous UAE fireworks during the last UAE National day weekend.

People will usually dress up in UAE national flag colours, decorate their homes, workplaces, cars and streets to celebrate the day with joy and happiness. The Palm trees are decorated with lights from the colours of the flag. Hotels and other public sites are decorated with the flags and lights. Downtown Dubai will be lightened with fireworks and the Burj Khalifa displays the UAE flag. It will be crowded with people willing to see the massive national day fireworks and celebration. Shopping centres, malls, and institutions will be decorated with the flag. Heritage Villages are set all over the emirates in order to celebrate this event traditionally. Holidays are given from the National Day until two days later. Air shows are conducted while military processions are held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre for the rulers of the Emirates, members of the Federal National Council, and Emirati citizens.

Ufone has joined hands with Universal Services Fund to expand its coverage to many such areas.

The inauguration of the Rs759 million “Seamless Broadband Coverage Project” from Hub to Jiwani could be a game changer in this regard. Ufone and Universal Services Fund have collaborated to promote the development of telecom services in the unserved and underserved areas of Balochistan. More than 2.3 Million people are un-served in the 12 districts of Balochistan which include Sibi, Kalat, Khuzdar, Chaghai, Awaran Lasbela, Kharan, Dera Bugti, Bolan, Gwadar, Ziarat and areas along the Coastal Highway.

This monumental project shall allow the provision of voice and broadband services to all these areas, fueling a positive change for Balochistan. The project will directly impact the Gwadar- CPEC project as well and by development of communication networks, ease of doing work will be ensured for stakeholders.

Another benefit could be the move to a cashless economy. Access to internet will allow people to open

UPaisa accounts and conduct transactions from the comfort of their home. This move could support small businesses in the area as they will be able to operate in a free and fair manner. This would also further the cause of Prime Minister’s digitization initiative and equip people with better understanding of digital systems.

Carrying forward Prime Minister’s initiative of digitization, Ufone has actively promoted the development of telecommunication services in un-served and underserved areas throughout the length and breadth of the country. From North Waziristan to Larkana, Ufone along with USF has ensured that access to telecom services are improved drastically.

Ufone’s ambition is to improve the lives and experiences of its customers. By introducing new initiatives and services, Ufone has reaffirmed its commitment towards the people of Pakistan and stayed true to the tagline, Tum hi tou ho because for Ufone, the safety, security and happiness of its customers is the most important.

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

04 NEWS

SC benCh formed To hear SaCked IhC judge’S aPPeal ISLAMABAD

C

TLTP

HIEF Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed on Tuesday constituted a larger bench to hear the petition of Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui, a sacked judge of Islamabad High Court (IHC), on December 9.

The larger bench headed by Justice Umar Ata Bandial has been reconstituted again due to retirement of Justice Faisal Arab and Justice Sajjad Ali Shah has been added to it. Siddiqui, in his constitutional petition requested the top court to set aside a report of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) and

notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice on October 11, 2018.

President Dr Arif Alvi had removed Justice Siddiqui as judge of the IHC on the recommendation of the SJC. President Alvi had taken the decision under Article 209(5) on the SJC recommendation, under Article 209(6), read with Article 48(1) of the Constitution, a notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice stated.

The council unanimously agreed that while delivering a speech before the District Bar Association in Rawalpindi on July 21, 2018, Siddiqui had displayed a conduct unbecoming of a high court judge.

This was the opinion of the five members of the SJC, led by then-chief justice Mian Saqib Nisar.

At the time, other judges on the panel included Justice (r) Asif Saeed Khosa, Justice Gulzar Ahmed, the current CJP, the former Lahore High Court (LHC) chief justice Yawar Ali and former chief justice of the Sindh High Court (SHC) Justice Ahmed Ali Sheikh.

In his petition, Siddiqui contended that he had been sacked without a proper inquiry to prove the claims he made during his controversial speech.

Challenging his removal, Siddiqui raised serious allegations of “bias” against the for-

mer CJP, who was also the SJC chairman.

In the 30-page petition, the former judge explained the context in which he was compelled to address the bar association and utter remarks about alleged involvement of certain officers from the executive organ of the state in affairs of the judiciary and alleged manipulation in formation of benches.

“The remarks made by the petitioner [Siddiqui] were an honest attempt demanded by his conscience to counter the challenges posed to the independence of the judiciary,” the petition argued.

In the petition, Siddiqui recalled how he had issued orders on June 29 and Au-

gust 18 to clear roads and a green belt outside the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) headquarters.

Consequently, he added, a senior official of the ISI – named in the petition – visited him at his residence and asked him to review the decision and when he refused, expressed annoyance.

Subsequently, the petition said, another high-ranking official of the ISI – also named in the petition – approached the former judge at his residence on June 29 to apologise regarding the conduct of his subordinate and suggested some guidance to protect the prestige of the institution by modifying the orders.

Daniel Pearl case: SC asks Sindh counsel to point out error in SHC judgement ISLAMABAD TLTP

The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday heard appeal of the Sindh government seeking suspension of the Sindh High Court (SHC) verdict of acquitting four convicts in Daniel Pearl murder case.

A three-judge bench of the apex court headed by Justice Mushir Alam, heard the appeals filed by the Sindh government and the parents of Pearl challenging the April 2 high court verdict that overturned the sentences of four convicts in the murder case.

Farooq H Naik representing the Sindh government said that four accused including Ahmed Omer Saeed were arrested, while seven others were at large. The accused had hatched kidnapping plot of Pearl, a US national reporting for the Wall Street Journal, in a Rawalpindi hotel, Naik said. “They sent an email to the victim’s wife after kidnapping and demanded ransom money,” the counsel further said.

The accused brutally slain Pearl after their demand was not met, Sindh’s counsel said. They also released the video of the slaughter causing fear and harassment among public. “I will produce details of the witness accounts in the next hearing,” the counsel told the bench.

“You should also point out the error in the high court decision,” Justice Yahya Afridi, a member of the bench said.

The court adjourned further hearing of the case till Wednesday.

Four convicts in the murder case, British national Ahmed Omer Saeed, coaccused Fahad Naseem, Salman Saqib and Sheikh Adil had moved the SHC in 2002 challenging their convictions handed down by the Hyderabad Anti-Terrorism Court after finding them guilty of abducting and killing Pearl.

The 38-year-old South Asia bureau chief of The Wall Street Journal, Pearl, was researching a story on religious extremists, in January 2002 in Karachi when he was abducted and slain.

FBR confiscates 300 cartons of non-duty paid cigarettes ISLAMABAD SHAHZAD PARACHA

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has confiscated around 300 cartons of non-duty paid cigarettes in the Faisalabad region.

According to officials, the Directorate of Intelligence & Investigation (Inland Revenue)-Faisalabad has seized 300 cartons (3,000,000 sticks) of non-duty paid cigarettes of different brands from multiple locations/stock-houses of traders in Faisalabad.

In the first raid, Tobacco Squad of I&I (IR)-Faisalabad, under the supervision of Deputy Director Imran Zafar, in exercise of powers u/s 38 of the Sales Tax Act, 1990 read with Rule 62 of the Federal Excise Duty, 2005, visited the business premises/sales office of a registered person in Timber Market. Upon search of his godown located near Lari Ada, Tandlianwala, 150 cartons of counterfeit/non duty

paid cigarettes were recovered.

Officials said the owner was asked to provide sales tax invoice/Bill-T and other allied documents but he failed to produce any document whatsoever, after which the cartons of non-duty paid cigarette were seized.

In another similar action undertaken by this directorate, Tobacco Squad Faisalabad on a tip off reached Deputywala Interchange, M-3 Motorway, Faisalabad and found 150 cartons of non-duty paid cigarettes about half a kilometer away from the interchange under a makeshift shed.

Two persons present there were questioned but they failed to produce any documents i.e. sales tax invoices/Bill-T. The cigarette appeared counterfeited/non-duty paid and were accordingly taken in to custody. Official said that estimated tax and duties evaded on the recovered merchandise may run in millions of rupees.

Congestion at Karachi Port hampering cement exports ISLAMABAD GHULAM ABBAS

Deep draft berths at Karachi Port are currently occupied by wheat importing vessels, owing to which the export of cement is getting badly affected, causing huge losses to the exporters.

In a letter to the maritime affairs minister, Power Cement Chief Executive Officer Kashif Habib stated that all three deep draft berths available at Karachi Port are occupied by the wheat vessels, as imported wheat is being dis-

charged. “Due to slow discharging of wheat vessels (8-9 days are required to discharge the vessel), the clinker/cement vessels are forced to wait for an extended period of time.”

He said the delay in discharging of wheat and occupation of all available deep berths are ultimately delaying the loading of 55,000MT cement/clinker, which only needed 3 to 5 days.

According to the letter, there are currently at least four wheat vessels on berth while three others are waiting at anchorage.

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar chairs a high-level meeting held to discuss ways of improving the trasnport system of the province

'Govt to set up expo centre, SEZ in Gujranwala' AslAm IqBAl sAys NOCs FOR FIve mORe CemeNt PlANts tO Be Issued sOON LAHORE SHAHAB OMER

Provincial Minister for Industries and Trade Mian Aslam Iqbal, while chairing a departmental meeting on Tuesday, said that a special economic zone (SEZ) and an expo centre will be established in Gujranwala.

As per details, the meeting discussed development issues of Gujranwala's industrial estates as well as problems faced by the city's industrialists. Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Omar Ashraf, former presidents Zahoor Malik and Akhlaq Butt, and Punjab (industry and commerce) additional secretary were also present on the occasion.

The provincial minister directed the officials concerned to formulate a plan of action within a week to resolve all legitimate issues of industrial estates, adding that 100pc colonisation of industrial estates was one of the top priorities of the incumbent government. "Industrial estates will be set up at appropriate places along Lahore-Sialkot Motorway and Lahore-Multan Motorway. I will visit Gujranwala next week to announce a package for industries," he stated.

The GCCI president on the occasion thanked the the government for providing relief to industrialists during the Covid-19 outbreak and hoped that all industry-related issues of Gujranwala would be resolved soon.

Separately, a delegation of Pakistan Coating Association, led by its chairman Moazzam Rashid, called on Mian Aslam Iqbal on Tuesday. The delegation, while apprising the minister of problems faced by the coating industry, demanded immediate redressal of issues pertaining to sales tax refund claims.

Aslam Iqbal said that it was the responsibility of the government to solve the problems of the industrialists and provide them facilities, adding that he would contact the Federal Board of Revenue for early resolution of sales tax refund issues.

"The Punjab government will extend all possible support to promote the coating industry and realise its export potential; nonskilled workers in the industry will be trained in consultation with stakeholders."

Later, a delegation representing Asian Precious Minerals Limited (APML) called on the provincial minister and discussed issues related to setting up a cement plant in Chakwal. The delegation included company CEO

KP govt approves Rs150m grant for religious minorities PESHAWAR AZIZ BUNERI

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has approved a grant of Rs150 million for the welfare of religious minorities out of which Rs100m would be spent in seven tribal districts of the province. According to the details, the funds will be released by the KP Department of Minority Affairs will provide grants to minorities’ youth, widows and the physically challenged persons to start small businesses.

In this regard, Rs150m has been earmarked for the project out of which Rs50m will be spent in settled districts and Rs100m in tribal districts. Under the scheme, a minimum grant of Rs50,000 and maximum of Rs500,000 will be provided for three years so that an individual may set up a new business. According to sources, the age limit to avail the scheme has been fixed at 40 years while women, widows and the physically disadvantaged will be

given at least Rs2.5m on priority.

Special Assistant to the Chief Minister KP on Minorities’ Affairs Wazir Zada told Profit that the scheme would be launched this month, adding that this is an effort by the government to address the backwardness of the religious minorities’ community in tribal districts to bring them at par with the people of settled districts. He informed that the scrutiny committee of the department would validate the applications and would provide the funds after receiving all applications whereas the scheme would be advertised in national newspapers first in a bid to make it transparent. “All minority youth, widows and special persons will be asked for business ideas before being given the endowment grant,” Zada added. It may be mentioned that 57 people will be given grants to open their businesses in the merged districts as compared to settled districts where 127 people would be facilitated with funds to open businesses under this year’s plan.

Nadeem Khan, Country Manager Shad Ali Khokhar and others.

Khan said that his group has started investing in setting up a cement plant in Chakwal after obtaining NOC, however, the government had included Chakwal in the negative area for setting up a cement plant through a notification in March 2018 and inquired if the notification would also apply to his investment.

“Punjab has an investor friendly environment and our group needs support to set up a cement plant here,” the CEO said.

The provincial minister explained to the delegation that the matter has been referred to the law department for legal opinion and progress in this regard can be made only after a response from them.

“The Punjab government is ensuring the provision of all possible facilities to investors. NOCs have been issued to five companies for setting up new cement plants in the province and another five NOCs will be issued soon. The government has given a historic incentive package for the construction sector, which will also boost 40 other industries related to the construction sector,” he said.

Pakistani investors urged to explore investment opportunities in Tanzania ISLAMABAD: President of Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (TCCIA) Paul F Koyi has said that Pakistani investors should visit Tanzania to explore joint ventures (JVs) and investment in order to capitalise on emerging businesses and economic opportunities in the African region which is the future for the world. He was addressing the business community during his visit to Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) along with a delegation of Tanzanian entrepreneurs on Tuesday wherein the two parties signed an MoU to promote bilateral trade, JVs and investment. The delegation exchanged views with ICCI President Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan and his team to promote bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries. INP

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

SHC SeeKS COmPreHeNSIve rePOrt IN HaveLIaN PLaNe CraSH KARACHI

t

EXTENDS FORMER SINDH CM’S INTERIM BAIL IN LAND ALLOTMENT CASE

TLTP

HE Sindh High Court (SHC) has directed the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to furnish a comprehensive report in a case pertaining to the 2016 Havelian plane crash.

A division bench, headed by Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, was hearing a petition filed by the parents of a pilot, who was killed in the crash, seeking directives for the authorities concerned to punish those responsible for the tragic incident.

Forty-seven passengers, including TV personality Junaid Jamshed, were killed when the ill-fated plane, PK-661, crashed in Havelian while travelling from Chitral to Islamabad.

During the hearing, Justice Mazhar asked, “Did PIA [Pakistan International Airlines] fix the responsibility for the crash after a probe report?” The report

would not have come to the fore had this court not passed the order, he remarked.

“The report took four years to reach the court,” the SHC judge observed and expressed resentment over CAA and PIA officials for appearing before the court without reading the report.

“Forth-two people died in the crash.

What lessons did you learn from the tragedy?” he asked. “I had told you to come to the court after reading the report, but no one has done so.” The officials said PIA and CAA are putting in place more measures to improve operational safety to deter such crashes.

“Who was responsible for the previous crash? You were taking safety measures back then,” Justice Mazhar snapped.

The court directed the authorities to

Lonely no more: Kaavan makes new friend

submit a report on the procedure of issuing maintenance certificates for the ATR planes.

The petitioners alleged that CAA and PIA permitted faulty planes to take off.

The plane with a broken blade was allowed to fly, they said. The mother of the martyred pilot burst into tears in the courtroom demanding that criminal proceedings be initiated against all those responsible for the crash.

The hearing was adjourned until December 17.

Meanwhile, another bench of the SHC on Tuesday extended the interim bail of Sindh’s former chief minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah in a case related to illegal land allotment.

The former chief is facing NAB in-

quiry into illegal land allotment case.

Shah appeared before the court as his bail expired today. Upon plea, his interim bail was extended till January 13.

The SHC has directed the NAB to present arguments at the next hearing of the case.

The former chief minister is also facing charges of massive corruption in Roshan Sindh project initiated by the provincial government for the installation of solar streetlights across the province.

The senior Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader has won seven out of eight general elections he contested, becoming a MPA six times, and Member of National Assembly (MNA) and senator once. Shah completed his 2nd term as chief minister of Sindh on 21 March 2013. He was once again, for the third time, elected to the office of chief minister of Sindh after the 2013 general elections. In July 2016, the PPP leadership decided to replace Shah with Murad Ali Shah as Sindh CM.

Lack of PPE leads to 100 healthcare workers dying of Covid

CAMBODIA AGENCIES

It was his first contact with another elephant in eight years. Reaching out with his trunk, Kaavan tentatively greeted a fellow inhabitant of the Cambodian sanctuary where he is beginning his new life after being rescued from grim conditions in the Islamabad zoo. The 36-year-old bull elephant — dubbed the “world’s loneliest” — was the sole Asian elephant at his previous dilapidated home. Animal rights groups launched a campaign to save him from the substandard conditions there, boosted by spirited social media support from US actress and musician Cher. He arrived in Cambodia on Monday to much fanfare — including a welcome from Cher herself, who not only travelled to see him off from Pakistan, but also arrived ahead of him at Siem Reap airport. Tuesday saw Kaavan settling into his enclosure at Kulen Prom Tep Wildlife Sanctuary, where he was seen touching trunks with another elephant, captured in images provided by rights group Four Paws. “First contact with an elephant in eight years — this is a huge moment for Kaavan,” said Martin Bauer, a spokesman with the Austria-based group that worked for months to get him ready for the flight. “Kaavan will finally have the chance to live a species-appropriate and peaceful life,” Bauer said, adding that the entire team was extremely moved to witness the interaction. “He has a very bright future ahead of him.” Once Kaavan has adjusted to a “controlled setting,” he will be released into the wider sanctuary, where there are three female elephants, an environment ministry official said on Monday. The plan is to breed Kaavan with local elephants to “conserve the genetic fold.” Transporting an adult elephant by plane is no small task, and has only been undertaken a handful of times. Helpers packed his trunk with 200 kilograms (450 pounds) of food to snack on during the seven-hour flight aboard a jumbo Russian cargo plane. A tube system was installed in his transport crate to handle up to 200 liters (58 gallons) of urine.

Activists have accused the zoo in Islamabad of chaining Kaavan up, and of not properly sheltering him during the searing summers there.

Conditions were so bad that in May, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) ruled that all the zoo’s animals should be relocated.

The issue of insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) being supplied to healthcare workers in the country has once again been highlighted, as the latest data report from the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) shows that 100 workers have lost their lives to Covid-19.

The tally showed that 71 doctors, 26 paramedics, two nurses and one a medical student lost their lives to the novel virus which emerged in the country in late February.

The NCOC said 51 infections were reported in the country among healthcare providers in the last 24 hours alone.

More than 10,000 healthcare workers have been infected with the deadly coronavirus in Pakistan, while the country itself has reported 2,458 new infections, raising the total tally to 400,484. Out of 49,105 active coronavirus cases in the country, 2,165 are critically ill and 282 are on life-support systems, whereas at least 343,286 have recovered from the virus. This makes Pakistan the 28th most affected country in the world in regard to the pandemic.

According to the NCOC, the virus claimed 67 lives in the past 24 hours, taking the death toll to 8,091.

However, the country’s fatality rate stands at 2.0 per cent against the global mortality rate of 2.3 per cent.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) have the highest positivity rate at 14.5 per cent, Sindh is second with 10.1 per cent, and Balochistan third with 9.4 per cent. Islamabad reported 4.3 per cent, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 3.8 per cent, Punjab 3.5 per cent, and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) 2.6 per cent.

In Punjab, the coronavirus claimed 45 more lives during the past 24 hours, taking the provincial death toll from the disease to 3,036.

According to a spokesperson for the Primary and Secondary Health Department, 543 fresh infections emerged during this period, pushing the total number of cases thus far reported across the province to 119,578.

A total of 19,956,67 tests have been conducted in the province since the infection emerged in the country nine months ago. The number of people recovering from the infection stands at 98,601.

Meanwhile, Balochistan has recorded 29 new coronavirus infections and one death by the disease in the last 24 hours. According to a report released by the Balochistan Health Department, at least 29 more persons were tested positive for coronavirus in Balochistan, bringing the total number of infected patients to 17,187 in the province. As many as 16,404 Covid-19 patients have so far recovered from the coronavirus while a total of 167 deaths were recorded with one more death due to the deadly virus in Balochistan.

The province has 95 per cent recovery rate of novel coronavirus patients, while four per cent active cases, health department spokesperson said.

Keeping in view the mushrooming cases over six weeks, the health experts and authorities have raised serious concerns that the second wave may hit harder than the first if SOPs are not followed.

Since the pandemic reached Pakistan earlier this year, a total of 5,549,779 PCR tests have been conducted across the country out of which 40,969 tests were conducted in the past 24 hours. NEWS DESK

UAE govt honours Pakistani medic who died of Covid-19 ISLAMABAD TLTP

A doctor who treated blue-collar workers before he contracted the coronavirus and died was honoured by the UAE government this week with a Fallen Frontline Workers Order.

According to a statement, Dr Muhammad Usman Khan, who worked as a general practitioner at the capital's Care Point Clinic, died on May 15 at the age of 56.

He was the first Pakistani doctor in the UAE to be lost to the pandemic and left behind his wife, Alia Usman, and two children, Mohanad, 6, and Akhdan, 5.

A day ago, Dr Usman’s wife, 42, received a call from a representative with the Fallen Frontline Workers Order, which was formed by order of President Sheikh

Khalifa to honour those who died while working on the front lines of Covid-19.

She said that she was touched by the sentiment. “I feel happy that my husband’s hard work and sacrifice will not be forgotten,” she added. “I was told that they would help in everything possible for us – my children’s education, housing and (UAE) visa.

“My husband was a hard worker and cared a lot about his patients. He never turned anyone away and was deeply committed to his work. It’s an honour for us that we have received a call from the office. I was told Sheikh Mohamed will be calling soon, too.”

Dr Usman moved to the UAE about 11 years ago to work as a doctor. He did not have any pre-existing conditions and was admitted to hospital on May 2 after he tested positive for Covid-19.

NEWS

05

Nawaz proclamation: FO submits certified papers in IHC ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday submitted to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) a certified copy of the receipt showing a proclamation notice issued by the court was served on former prime minister Nawaz Sharif through Royal Mail. Foreign Office (FO) Director Europe Mubashir Khan filed a miscellaneous application along with certified documents in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia cases. This copy will serve as evidence, enabling the court to declare the PML-N supremo a proclaimed offender in both cases for failing to appear before it despite being repeatedly summoned. “The copy of aforesaid receipt is already available on record, however, an attested copy having become available is submitted soon upon its receipt through diplomatic bag,” the application reads and pleads with the court to take it on record in the interest of justice. On November 24, a FO official had placed on record a compliance report informing the judges that the PML-N supreme leader did not show up before the court deliberately. An execution report of his warrants through ads in print as well as electronic media was also submitted to the bench. It was informed that the warrants posted through Royal Mail were received at Nawaz’s London residence. Besides, proclamation notices summoning the former prime minister were also put up outside his Lahore residence. The court ruled that it will record statements of the relevant officials of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the FO at the next hearing and directed the agency to submit all relevant records. TLTP

Shehbaz, Hamza urge Punjab govt to extend release on parole LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) President Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza Shehbaz have sought an extension in their five-day parole and the PML-N has submitted an application in this regard. The parole ends on Tuesday and they are to be sent back to jail by Wednesday. The PMLN submitted a request for the extension to the Punjab Home Department on Tuesday. The PML-N leader Ata Tarar has submitted the application. The extension has been requested because it reads that the two leaders have been getting visits by people to offer condolences. A meeting has been called by Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar to consider the request for extension. Special Assistant to Punjab Chief Minister on Information Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, meanwhile, commented on the extension, saying the PML-N leaders were released on parole on humanitarian grounds. She said that the parole cannot be extended, and a request should never have been submitted. Meanwhile, President BNP-Mengal Sardar Akhtar Mengal Tuesday arrived at Shehbaz Sharif’s Model Town residence in Lahore and extend condolence over the death of his mother. Shehbaz and his son were released from Kot Lakhpat Jail on Friday on five-day parole following the death of his mother Begum Shamim Akhtar. TLTP

Court accepts Hamza’s plea to skip sugar mill case hearing LAHORE: An accountability court on Tuesday accepted Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Hamza Shahbaz’s plea to excuse him for skipping the hearing of the Ramzan Sugar Mills case.

Accountability Judge Amjad Nazir directed jail authorities to present him at the next hearing on December 7. Hamza’s lawyer stated before the court that his client has been released from prison on fiveday parole to attend the funeral of his grandmother Begum Shamim Akhtar and receive people coming to offer their condolences. The judge expressing resentment over the accused’s absence asked who visits in the morning to extend condolences. Hamza should have appeared, he remarked. The counsel requested the judge to excuse his client’s absence as there is only one day left before he returns to prison.

On November 27, PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza were released from Kot Lakhpat Jail on a five-day parole. TLTP

SC allows lawyer case to plead case remotely due to Covid-19 In light of the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court (SC) has allowed a lawyer to plead his case remotely, leading to multiple senior lawyers pushing for all courts to adopt this policy.

The SC issued directives to the technical staff of the Sindh High Court (SHC) to make the appropriate arrangements so that senior lawyer Khalid Anwar could plead his case remotely

next week in light of the threat of the novel coronavirus. The orders were issued on Monday by a three-member bench, headed by Justice Mushir Alam.

It is pertinent to mention here that the orders come shortly after the death of Peshawar High Court (PHC) chief justice Waqar Ahmed Seth, who lost his life to the contagious disease last month.

Similarly, lawyers Sardar Aslam and

Zahid Bukhari have also died due to the coronavirus, while five other judges of high courts are infected.

Islamabad High Court (IHC) has already offered these facilities, and in some cases, lawyers have argued their cases from abroad, but with this new order, multiple senior lawyers are also arguing that all courts should provide such facilities. Currently, 45,959 cases are

CMYK

pending in the apex court. Senior lawyers believe that pendency can only be decreased through extending the video-link facility and lawyers should be allowed to argue their cases from home during the pandemic.

It had already been suggested by Justice Qazi Faez Isa that the integration of social media and video conferencing apps to better facilitate remote cases is imperative to deal-

ing with the backlog.

It had been proposed that each courtroom or bench be provided with a Wi-Fi capable cell phone and also suggested that applications such as Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram or any other suitable video conferencing platform be installed in the aforementioned cell phone and the counsel should also be asked to install the same application in their devices. NEWS DESK

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

06 COMMENT

RSS’s changed stand on Kashmir

Willing for talks With a tough condition

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RIME MINIStER Imran Khan categorically announced not to allow the PDM rally in Multan.

His spokespersons suggested imprisonment for those attending the rally. Scores of opposition workers were subsequently hauled up and the access to the rally’s proposed venue blocked with containers. As the highly motivated PDM workers advanced pushing aside obstacles, the administration belatedly announced it was removing barricades to allow the rally to be held. this has led to mutual accusations within the government circles, with some putting blame on the Punjab government for the fiasco. the PDM’s success has raised its confidence while it has created doubts about the government’s ability to stop the Lahore rally scheduled for December 13 and the subsequent march on Islamabad. the need for talks is in the air now. Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed who has so far been predicting the break-up of the PML(N) has suddenly started advising the opposition leaders to enter into dialogue with the government to steer the country out of the political impasse. the opposition is however unwilling to have any parleys with the Prime Minister, as it considers him powerless. It is however willing to hold negotiations with those who matter.

Imran Khan’s total administrative experience consisted of leading a cricket team to win the World Cup. His major success story is collecting donations for a firstclass cancer hospital run by a dedicated team of professionals. Mr Khan misled many by maintaining that the most important hurdle in the country’s progress were corrupt politicians. Once they were in jail every problem the country faces would be fixed by him. With him as Prime Minister, patriotic expatriates would send home of millions of dollars, enough to run the country. Once in power, Mr Khan has tried to run the country, which is much more complex than a cancer hospital, through unelected advisers presented as the best specialists in their field. After two and a half years of the persecution of politicians, the country faces the worst economic situation due to lack of competence on Mr Khan’s part. this has implications for national defence also. All the opposition parties are willing to hold talks, albeit with the powers that be, with one condition. the country has to be run strictly in accordance with the Constitution, with no institution transgressing into another’s turf.

From Jammu statehood to Kashmir accession, the BJP record is one of hypocrisy Amjed jAAved

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t is eerie that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh celebrated `Accession to India’ Day on October 26. History tells that the RSS, a communalist outfit, was fanatically opposed to plebiscite or accession of the disputed state either to India or Pakistan. It wanted Hindu-majority Jammu to be a separate state or integrated with the then Punjab. the RSS affiliate, the Jammu-based Praja Parishad, spearheaded the demand for separating Jammu from the Valley. Yet the BJP’s predecessor, the Jan Sangh, its political mentor, the RSS, and the organization supported by them, the Praja Parishad had celebrated the ‘accession’ of Jammu and Kashmir to India on 26 October 1947. the accession itself is a myth. But, it is strange that its opponents are now riding the accession bandwagon. Had Sheikh Abdullah or Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru been alive, they would have been stupefied. the RSS-BJP is busy renaming the Kashmir tunnels and bridges after Jan Sangh leaders. But, the Jana Sangh was all along opposed to Article 370. the organisation agitated for its abrogation. Later, they also opposed the Union Government’s Delhi Accord with the Jammu and Kashmir Government.

Nehru was obsessed that if Jammu gets separated from the Valley on communal grounds, it would amount to tearing to shreds the vision of a secular India. He saw no difference between the two-nation theory and advocating a separate Jammu state. In an emotional speech at Calcutta, on 1 January 1952, he said: There can be no greater vindication than this of our secular policies, our Constitution, that we have drawn the people of Kashmir towards us. But just imagine what would have happened in Kashmir if the Jan Sangh or any other communal party had been at the helm of affairs. The people of Kashmir say that they are fed up with this communalism. Why should they live in a country where the Jan Sangh and RSS are constantly beleaguering them? They will go elsewhere and they will not stay with us’.

In another speech on 6 July 1952, he expressed his shock: I am amazed at the way they have gone about doing things in Kashmir in the last couple of years. Basically, their tactics are to denounce the present regime in Kashmir, thereby sowing the seeds of dissension at the time it is essential for all of us to march together. How does it benefit anyone? The Praja Parishad claims loudly that Kashmir must be

Solidifying relations with China CPEC plays an important part in alliance

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HIEF of Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa met with China’s defence minister and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further enhance and solidify cooperation between the armies of the two nations that have remained close allies for decades. this is a significant development considering the recent volatility in regional security due to the standoff over Ladakh between China and India. Pakistan relies on China’s support in many international forums, such as the FAtF, to counter India’s anti-Pakistan propaganda. Apart from the understanding on the security front and diplomatic support, China is also heavily financially invested in Pakistan through the Pak-China Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is a central component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). the CPEC’s timely completion and success, much of which depends on the efficiency of the government of Pakistan, weigh heavily on ties between the two countries.

Unfortunately, under the PtI government, many of CPEC’s main projects are behind schedule, struggling to meet even revised deadlines at the current pace of work. the port city of Gwadar, considered the ‘crown jewel’ of CPEC, is one such example where practically all schemes are facing delays. Although the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Gwadar, that includes representatives from both countries, have decided to expedite work at their recent meeting, the Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC), which is the highest decision making body of CPEC, will take up the issue of slow progress in Gwadar at its meeting next month. However, it seems that the JCC will be presented with the same underwhelming and unsatisfactory progress report that it saw in its last meeting. With little to no progress with regards to work on the dredging of the berth area and the channels at the port to ensure safety of vessels and on building a more reliable telecommunications network, deadlines will probably have to be extended yet again as necessary work cannot be carried out in the absence of these support services. Prime Minister Imran Khan has stated on many occasions that his government is committed to making CPEC a success, but the on-ground situation signals a palpable indifference towards the project and just sheer incompetence. there is a need to bring all CPEC projects back to their original or revised timelines so that a crucial and important alliance remains intact and healthy.

A clarion call to world muhAmmAd ZAhid RifAt

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NDIA claims itself to be a big democracy. But it does not admit the terrorist activities it has been carrying out in furtherance of its policy of hegemony in its neighbouring countries, particularly targeting Pakistan in order to destabilize it and halt its forward march on the path of economic stability, progress and development and stop the great game-changer, CPEC, making appreciable headway. thus India is a country sponsoring state terrorism by providing financial assistance and material help to terrorists for carrying out their subversive activities in Pakistan as well as in Sri Lanka and Nepal, so to say.

Pakistan has been drawing the world’s attention towards India’s hostile activities from time to time.

But now it has given a clarion call to urge the world to open its eyes and see what New Delhi is doing in its neighbouring countries. this clarion call has now been given in a dossier containing undeniable and irrefutable evidence by no less persons than Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DGISPR) Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar at a joint press conference recently in Islamabad. the dossier is now also being provided to the UN, the OIC and the P5 countries through their ambassadors and other possible means. It has also been provided in person to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Munir Akram. the UN chief has said that he will study the dossier so provided, containing irrefutable evidence about India’s sponsorship of terrorism in Pakistan.

It is worth noting that the international community is growing responsive to Pakistan’s stance, based on documents containing bitter and solid evidence, about India’s state terrorism, and the international media is also highlighting the Indian-sponsored terrorism in Pakistan and also drawing the world attention to continued Indian atrocities in the illegally Occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Despite being a so-called big democratic country, India is a state which is continuously refusing to adhere to international laws and conventions and has

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for each suicide attack in Pakistan.

According to the reliable information available, India has presently as many as 66 training camps for sponsoring and harbouring terrorists on its soil and also in Pakistan.

Not only this, India is also persistently violating the Line of Control (LoC), targeting and killing innocent civilians without any provocation though getbeen consistently exhibiting such irresponsible be- ting an adequate and strong response every time. there is no denying the fact that the China-Pakhaviour towards its neighbours’ security and stability istan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a great game that it can easily be called a rogue state.

Quite obviously, if even after being provided un- changer, making major contributions towards ecodeniable evidence, the world does not take prompt nomic stability, progress and development, increasing employment opportunities, and due notice of the Indian and is boosting connectivity agenda to destabilize and in the region and beyond. undermine Pakistan’s secuPakistan is ready to rity and stability then it (PakAfter being provided undeniable thwart all hostilities to harm istan) has the right to defend CPEC in any manner by itself in every possible way. and irrefutable evidence about India as it cannot see this India is supporting, ficountry making progress and nancing and reorganizing terIndia’s state sponsored development and has already rorism organizations and taken appropriate security terrorists which have been noterrorism, Pakistan genuinely measures to defend CPECtified as banned outfits, like hopes for a positive response related concerns, Chinese enthe Jammatul Ahrar (JUA), gineers and technicians and BLA and ttP, by the UN and after this clarion call in others concerned. pushed out of Pakistan by its the international comvaliant and courageous armed documented form, and that the munity should know in plain forces and security agencies. international community will words that Pakistan knows It is also a noteworthy fact that very well how to defend itboth neighbouring countries, longer continue turning a blind self, and will not allow anyIndia and Pakistan, are nuclear to undermine its powers and India’s terrorism eye to such rogue behaviour by one stability in any manner . sponsorship can threaten After being provided unIndia, and play its role in peace and stability not only in deniable and irrefutable eviPakistan but also the entire compelling India to dence about India’s state South Asian region. Pakistan sponsored terrorism, Pakistan will not allow anyone to unimmediately halt its stategenuinely hopes for a positive dermine its victory over terresponse after this clarion call rorism, which the country’s sponsored terrorism inside in documented form, and that armed forces and security Pakistan and play its role for the international community agencies had secured after ofwill longer continue turning a fering huge sacrifices of lives. peace and security in the region blind eye to such rogue beIndian embassies and haviour by India, and play its consulates along the internarole in compelling India to tional borders and immediately halt its stateAfghanistan are hubs of state-sponsored terrorism, mainly in Pakistan. India sponsored terrorism inside Pakistan and play its role has lavishly been spending money to support and fi- for peace and security in the region. nance terrorists, and is reported to have distributed The writer is Lahore-based Freelance Journalist, only during last couple of years or so more than Rs 22 billion on state-sponsored terrorism in Pakistan, so Columnist and retired Deputy Controller (News) much so India through its intelligence agency RAW Radio Pakistan Islamabad and can be reached at is paying huge amount of Rs 10 million to the terrorists zahidriffat@gmail.com

Pakistan cannot allow anyone to destabilize it

Dedicated to the legacy of the late Hameed Nizami

Aziz-ud-Din Ahmad

merged with the Indian Union. We too want that. But ‘Love jihad’ and ‘Pakistan zindabad’. He declared it is easy to see the result of tactics they have adopted. that only the pandemic prevented him from allowing It is amazing to see the references to the Jammu Praja the whole of India to make pilgrimage to the underParishad in the Pakistani newspapers. Pakistan is construction Ram temple at the Babri site. Anyone aware that the Praja Parishad is making their task differing with BJP policies is charged with sedition.

A Goa legislator complained that cow vigilantes easier by creating dissensions in Kashmir. So you can intercept beef trucks into Karnataka and put phenyl understand why it is important to act circumspectly.

In the LokSabha on 26 June 1952, he said:”Do on the meat to make it unfit for eating.

Judge Mahesh Chandra Sharma of the Rajasthan not think that you are dealing with a part of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar or Gujarat. You are dealing with an High Court, in his 193-page judgment, stunned peoarea, historically and geographically and in all man- ple by mentioning the mythical benefits of cow milk, urine and dung. His judgner of things, with a certain ment, a mélange of scripbackground. If we bring our tures and law, glistens with local ideas and local prejuclaims like ‘cow is a surdices everywhere, we will geon’, ‘a complete pharnever consolidate. We have cow slaughter or Preventing macy’, and cow is a to be men of vision and there ‘national animal’. has to be broadminded acbeef-eating has neither Hindus ignore that, acceptance of facts.” economic nor constitutional cording to the National Nehru, in his letter of 29 Survey Office, more June 1953 confided to his backing. Where is secular India Sample than 80 million Indians confriend B.C. Roy how the sume beef, including 12.5 Praja Parishad movement headed? If re-elected, as is million Hindus, the rest inhad harmed the interests of likely, Modi would amend cluding Muslims and Christhe country: “If Hindu comtians. India has been the munalists could organise a India’s constitution to make largest exporter of beef since movement in Jammu, why 2014. India’s Al-Dua is a should not the Muslim comIndia a Hindu republic and leading exporter of munalists function in Kashadopt cows as equal citizens halal/kosher meat to Arab mir? The position now is nations. that if there was a plebiscite, BJP legislator Sangeet a great majority of Muslims Som is a big beef exporter. in Kashmir would go Goa allows beef consumpagainst us. In fact, there has tion as does the Northeast. Both Union Home Minister been some petty violence also.” the RSS is trying hard to prove that the Muslim of State Kiren Rijiju and Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Rashtriya Manch (Muslim National Forum) is not a Khandu have openly admitted being beef eaters.

Preventing cow slaughter or beef-eating has neicommunal outfit. It includes Muslim also. In 2002, K.S. Sudarshan, then RSS chief floated the MRM. It ther economic nor constitutional backing. Where is claims 10,000 volunteers. During the Muslim protest secular India headed? If re-elected, as is likely, Modi against the Citizenship Amendment Act, the RSS em- would amend India’s constitution to make India a Hindu republic and adopt cows as equal citizens. ployed it against protesters. the Muslim are being repressed in several counthe Indian Supreme Court validated the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi tries including India and France. Islamophobia is on was inducted, shortly after his retirement, into the the rise. the whole world is apathetic to the RSS’s atrocities against minorities in India.

Rajya Sabha.

It is strange that the status of cows over-shadAmjed Jaaved is a freelance journalist, has owed all other issues in India’s elections. Hindumonk chief minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh served in the Pakistan government for 39 years and equated cows with human beings. He directed that holds degrees in economics, business administration, law.

He can be reached at cow-related offences be registered under India’s Na- and tional Security Act. He jailed people for social posts amjedjaaved@gmail.com.

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Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

COMMENT 07 Editor’s mail Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan.

E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan today exclusively

A man of Courage

Legislation to curb rapes The problem has roots in the Internet

mAlik muhAmmAd AshRAf

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HE Federal Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan on tuesday, decided in principle to promulgate two Ordinances designed to curb the increase in the cases of rape of women, children and other genders. the need for such an emergency step was strongly felt in view of the series of horrendous incidents of rape, particularly the one that occurred on the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway recently, sending a wave of indignation and outrage throughout the country and sparking a demand for awarding the severest possible punishment to the culprits. Some circles even suggested public hanging to make an example out of the criminals. Probably it was also felt that the laws already in vogue did not prescribe punishment commensurate with the severity of the crime and were also not adequate enough to cover all aspects of the crime.. the proposed pieces of legislation suggest an expansion in the definition of rape incorporating within it the terms ‘transgender’ and ‘gang-rape’ and harsher punishments for the perpetrators including chemical castration, establishment of rape crises centres and special courts to try the alleged rapists. Bringing in these statutes through ordinances indicates the sense of urgency, sensitivity to heinous crime of rape and honesty of purpose on part of the government to deal with the phenomenon with iron hand. It is indeed a laudable initiative.

Violating the modesty of a woman, or the sexual assault of a child or a transgender, are the gravest social crimes which not only impinges upon Islamic injunctions but also constitute an affront to the state. No religion or society in the world endorses and condones this act of bestiality and they have a consensus on awarding due punishment to the offenders, though they differ on the scope and severity of the punishment.

Punishments do act as a deterrent against the commission of a crime, more so if they are harsh to the greatest possible extent. However the actual deterrent is the element of certainty of the award of the prescribed punishment, and that would also require putting in place other measures, such as improvement in investigation and prosecution procedures and practices with the

help of the available technologies as well as ju- working in different areas related to gender dicial reforms to make the whole process free of equality and rights of women besides discarding loopholes. It means reforms in the overall sys- the image of women being merely sex objects. the government has a greater responsibility tem of the dispensation of justice.

Punishing the perpetrators of rape is only in regards to changing social attitudes. It cannot one aspect of this detestable act. the govern- be done merely by promulgating laws and punishment and society also need to look at the causes ing the perpetrators of rape. A sustained campaign and temptations for rape. Some of these are re- needs to be launched in this regard by also availing lated to our social power structure and archaic the services of the religious and social leaders to educate communities practices. We have witwithin their domain of nessed Jirgas and paninfluence. Making this chayats ordering issue a part of the educagang-rape of women as tional curricula could a retribution for the It can be safely inferred that also help in mitigating crimes committed by rape and gang-rape of women, the severity of the probtheir siblings. the case lem. the government of Mukhtaran Mai and children and even also has to bring sysmany other such incitemic changes in the dents are shameful transgenders, cannot be working of police and blots on the face of our jails and other organs of society.the feudal prevented only through the state which are supcharacter of our polipromulgation of harsh laws. It posed to protect the vultics, which encourages nerable sections of the a culture of graft and needs changes in the social society, particularly entitlement, is also a women and children. major factor in promotattitudes towards women and In the modern era ing such crimes. systemic changes in the way media has emerged as In our society, the strongest tool in inwomen are regarded as the country is governed as fluencing social behavsymbol of the family iour and attitudes. It is honour. In certain cases also by preventing the indeed the strongest the people consider it onslaught on pornography forum to educate the as the best revenge people with regard to isagainst an enemy to through the internet. I hope the sues related to social dishonour their harmony and the need women.

Custodial PTI government, particularly for a crime-free society. rapes are also very It can be asked by the common. According to the Prime Minister, who is a government that the the late Asma Jahangir, well-meaning person, would media include this subchairman and coject in their programmes founder of Women’s take note of all these factors on a regular basis.

Action Forum, 72 percent of women are and chalk out a comprehensive Media being the representative of the society subjected to physical plan to rectify the maladies must also feel its social and sexual abuse while responsibility by volunin custody. this indiafflicting the system of tarily addressing the iscates that something is sues related to rape and also terribly wrong governance as well as to violence against women with our policing and eradicate the social fault lines, and children. jail systems. We have It can be safely ina well-entrenched besides introducing legal steps ferred that rape and ‘thana culture’ patrongang-rape of women, ized by police highto deal with the problem children and even ups. Dragging police transgenders, cannot be into politics also gives prevented only through them the licence to promulgation of harsh dishonour people.

In my view, easy access to porn sites on the laws. It needs changes in the social attitudes tointernet is also responsible for arousing libido wards women and systemic changes in the way among men and youngsters who then develop the country is governed as also by preventing the the temptation for rape or gang-rape of women onslaught on pornography through the internet. and even children. As is evident from the fore- I hope the PtI government, particularly the going facts, rape and gang-rape are probably the Prime Minister, who is a well-meaning person, biggest social crimes in Pakistan making it in- would take note of all these factors and chalk out cumbent upon the government and the society a comprehensive plan to rectify the maladies afto launch a crusade against this mind-boggling flicting the system of governance as well as to crime. the society through social organizations eradicate the social fault lines, besides introduccan play a pivotal role in changing attitudes, re- ing legal steps to deal with the problem. forming social customs and dismantling social Malik Muhammad Ashraf is an academic. practices that encourage rape and humiliation of women and children. Many NGOs are also He can be contacted at: ashpak10@gmail.com

APROPOS to International Day Of People With Disability Being Observed On 3rd December In life, some unanticipated incidents and tragedies occur which ends the purpose of living for a person, but then it is the element of hope that gives the courage to live and that teaches the art to survive. there is a famous quote that if you have opted to live with hope then life becomes easy to live. this story is of a doctor who decided to live with courage despite knowing the fact that his life will never return to normalcy.

Dr. Aslam Khowaja alias Dr. Aslam Azad was born on 30 August 1965 in jati, the coastal town of district Sujawal in the house of a poor but dedicated and diligent teacher Ashiq Ali Khawaja who was known for his integrity and uprightness. the teachings of his father motivated him and inclined him to work for the progression of poor masses and to create awareness in society.

During his tenure as general secretary of SSt, he organized different events, seminars, and conventions to keep the students of Sindh Awakened and aware of their issues. Besides that, he also took steps for providing free scholarships to the poor and necessitous student studying in different universities and colleges of Sindh Dr Aslam worked with different social organizations, he was an active member of Chandoki Social Welfare, Sindhi Adabi forum, Aga Khan Foundation, Awami doctors forum, and Sindhi Adabi Sangat. through these organizations, he deflected his fellows and young generations towards social service.

After receiving his early education from his home town jati and Sujawal he moved to Liaquat Medical College jamshoro (now university) for higher education from there he completed his MBBS in 1991.

He served as Correspondent of Urdu newspaper JUNG, Sindhi Newspaper JAGO, and Weekly Sindhi Magazine tAHERIK. Along with it, he was chief editor of his newspaper AWAZ. the formation of the Jamshoro Press club is a result of his resolute efforts.

20 December 1991 is the day when dreams, desires. the whims and wishes of the young doctor disappeared into the darkness. On that day when he was on his way back home after attending a Medical camp, a horrifying accident near sujawal badly damaged his spinal cord. the injured doctor was rushed to a private hospital where he remained under treatment for Months. Doctors left no stone unturned in reviving his physical ability but they could not succeed and in the end, he was declared untreatable. Despite that tragedy he is still living with courage and always tries to contribute for the society KAMRAN KHAMISO KHOWAJA SuJAWAl

A good suggestion ANY democratic system guarantees the right to assemble and protest a sitting government. Protesting via rallies and sit-ins is democratic if the principle of protecting human life and dignity is followed. Be it an advanced of democracies or the worst of it, no one has the right to create a mess and drive the country to the edge of disaster. Unfortunately, politicians in our country forget the basics and believe that they have a free pass to everything, even if it involves jeopardizing human life or the survival of the country. Most of the people in our country are struggling to make their ends meet. All they want and desire is access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, and security. However, our politicians seem oblivious to what people want. the country is in the grip of multifarious crises including Coronavirus and our politicians are engaged in an ugly war for power. the leaders from the govt and the opposition play the game of mudslinging and hoodwink people with new promises every day. While the PDM keeps claiming that the government will soon be gone in rallies that endanger the life of people, the government seems to have no other job than to accuse the opposition of all the ills. Surprisingly, in the middle of this chaos, the leader of the opposition in the NA has called for a national dialogue, which seems to have fallen on deaf ears on both sides. the proposal is sensible and leaders if serious and firm can find out a solution to the situation, we are stuck in. there is no way to get out of the mess we are in except holding national dialogue, which is the way out in worst of the situations. Confrontation will not take us far and might end in an outcome that is bad for all parties including the country. therefore, I appeal to the leadership on both sides to pay serious consideration to the suggestion of Mr. Shahbaz Sharif and for once try to enter a dialogue purely to help people and stabilize the country.

RAJA SHAFAATULLAH ISLAMABAD

Govt performance tHE performance of the incumbent government has been very disappointing in almost all fields during first half of its tenure , highlighted by incompetence and lack of foresight .

From the Prime Minister down to his cabinet members , they recite the “ mantra “ that the previous government is responsible for all the ills in the country , weather it is ever rising costs of electricity & gas , the flour , sugar and medicine prices or unemployment. the notorious circular debt has tripled during this regime and is continously rising , but the previous government is blamed for it . the last government is blamed for high corruption and amassing wealth beyond means . their leaders are put behind bars for months and years but the government has failed to recover a single penny from the alledged looted money .

NAB has been targeting the opposition members by arresting them and putting them in jail without doing the needed homework to proceed against them successfully in courts which have been passing unwelcome observations on the working of NAB . the corruption and inefficiency is rampant in government departments and there is no check and accountability.

One can not cite a single commendable venture of national importance taken by the government. It has been re - inaugurating the projects already conceived and inaugurated by the previous governments .

It is high time to get rid of this incompetent regime which is posing an economic risk .

ENGR RIAz BHUTTA LAHoRE

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

08 WORLD VIEW

Iran: LookIng beyond the assassInatIon

Center for StrAtegiC And internAtionAl StudieS

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anThony h Cordesman

MPORTanT as the assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh may be, it is only one part of the story. Like the killing of Qassem Soleimani, it has a major political impact and makes it even harder for the United States to negotiate with iran. at the same time, both the assassination and iran’s nuclear program need to be kept in a broader strategic context.

HOW FAR HAS IRAN GOTTEN TOWARD A NUCLEAR DEVICE? First, no one scientist dominated iran’s program. it is the cumulative result of efforts that began under the Shah in the 1970s, and which have evolved ever since. it also now draws on some 75 years of data and leaks since the first nuclear weapon – especially data on how France, israel, Pakistan, india, and north Korea have acquired their nuclear weapons.

By 2013, there already were estimates that iran had all of the technology it needed to make a weapon within a year if it could devote all of its enrichment activity to producing weapons-grade material. Such estimates were probably exaggerated then, and they may be exaggerated now, but one needs to be careful about the probable success of arms control efforts like the JCPOa. THE IMPACT OF ADVANCES IN IRAN’S MISSILE FORCES Other aspects of the military balance are shifting. in 2013, the United States and its arab strategic partners still had a decisive advantage in terms of modern airpower and precision strike capability relative to iran’s mix of missiles and aging or mediocre combat aircraft.

Today, iran has demonstrated that it has advanced ballistic and cruise missile technology as well as conventional warhead design capability through its strikes on Saudi oil facilities. These advances in conventional strike capability have implications for iran’s potential nuclear capabilities as well. no official source has discussed whether iran has used its missile warfare capabilities to test simulated nuclear warheads – something it would need to do before it tested an actual nuclear warhead. However, a mix of telemetry and recovered, instrumented warheads could test many aspects of warhead design on a covert basis that the JCPOa – or even iaEa inspections – could not address.

Equally important, one of the most serious criticisms of the JCPOa is that it did not restrict iran’s missile development. it seems highly unlikely that iran would now consider expanding the JCPOa. iran’s precision-guided conventional missile gives it a major new capability to strike high-value civilian and military targets throughout the region, and it allows iran to offset U.S. and arab advantages in airpower, which in addition makes its potential nuclear threat more serious. it seems doubtful that iran would trade such advantages away.

TESTING SIMULATED NUCLEAR WEAPONS There also are serious questions about the advances that iran is making in the aspects of nuclear weapon designs that the JCPOa never covered. The iaEa has repeatedly expressed concern about possible iranian-instrumented explosive testing of a nuclear weapon design, but it has never been allowed into at least one – of the possible three – suspected facility in time to make a determination of whether iran has taken such steps. Both Pakistan and india, and possibly north Korea, seem to have conducted such tests using non-fissile material without detection before they actually exploded test nuclear weapons.

Other, harder to detect, simulation tests can address a number of critical aspects of implosion technology and neutron initiation.

There is no unclassified reporting on whether such iranian activities have occurred or can be detected, and there does not seem to be reliable open source technical data on how far such efforts can take a given country.

The answer, however, may be that they could take iran to the edge of a functional fission weapon, and it seems possible that they could now take iran to the point where a reasonably reliable design for a weapon of 10 kilotons or larger can be produced without testing an actual nuclear device.

These issues were never addressed in the JCPOa or in the debate over its efforts to limit the production of weapons-grade fissile material. They have never been mentioned in official public references to Project amad, Projects 110 and 111, and the SPnd. They are, however, critical to any real-world assessment of iran’s progress, and they provide an indication of how complex producing an effective nuclear weapon really is, and how limited the impact of killing a certain number of key scientists can be.

PRODUCING FISSILE MATERIAL as for the production of fissile material, the JCPOa’s constraints may still be negotiable. iran has not publicly moved toward a 90% weapons-grade level of enrichment or increased its holding of heavy water.

However, iran may have begun to create new covert nuclear enrichment facilities since the United States pulled out of the JCPOa. it also now has some 12 times the total level of enriched uranium permitted by the agreement. This stockpile is also enriched to 4.5% – above the levels permitted in the JCPOa. This is still a long way from 90%, but it does push the JCPOa envelope.

NEW CENTRIFUGES iran is deploying new iR-2M, iR-4, and iR-6 centrifuges, and no public reporting has emerged about their actual efficiency, size, and design features that might allow iran to deploy a series of small, isolated facilities to conceal its efforts and reduce their vulnerability.

These are all areas where the U.S., israel, and other nations looking at iran’s efforts have good security reasons not to report publicly, warn iran how much they know, and provide a “cookbook” for other proliferators.

They also, however, raise key issues about renegotiating the JCPOa. This is not 2000 or 2013. iran has moved on, and it has made major open progress in missile warhead design and guidance. it also has sharply raised israeli and Saudi concerns over iran’s programs.

THE OTHER SIDE OF IRAN’S ACTIVITIES at the same time, it is equally important to look at iran’s progress in other areas. Far too much emphasis is being placed upon the JCPOa and iran’s nuclear programs, and far too little emphasis is placed on the realworld damage being done by U.S. sanctions and the “maximum pressure” campaign on iran’s economy and iran’s progress in bypassing sanctions as well as in other areas of security.

Consider how the following developments outside the nuclear arena have evolved since the negotiations for the JCPOa fist began, since “implementation day” on January 16, 2016, and since President Trump withdrew from the JCPOa on May 18, 2018: IRAN’S OTHER MILITARY GAINS iran has demonstrated the ability to conduct precision strikes reliably with conventionally armed ballistic and cruise missiles/drones against key aspects of Saudi petroleum facilities. The same strikes can deprive Gulf states from their desalination plants, electric power, and plants that cost millions of dollars and which have specialized components that can take up to several years to replace. They can also hit critical fixed military facilities or anyone with a cellphonesized device by gathering precise GPS targeting coordinates or by visiting such facilities without sophisticated intelligence assets. iran is acquiring sophisticated air/missile defense capabilities from Russia through its purchase of the S-300, and it may have access to S-400 missile technology. iran has steadily improved its hybrid warfare capabilities to attack shipping and air traffic in the Gulf – proliferating new attack craft, submersible, anti-ship missiles, smart mines, and sensor systems.

The Un arms embargo has expired. Russia and China can now sell iran arms, and China is reported to be considering a massive strategic partnership agreement with iran. iran is a signatory to the Chemical Weapons Convention but has not reported on its stockpiles. no clear open source data exist on its current biological and chemical weapons efforts. iRan’S MaJOR GainS in THE REGiOn iran’s strategic partner, the Lebanese Hezbollah, is the dominant security force in a shattered Lebanon and has steadily built up its missile forces, including precision-guided iranian systems.

Syria now seems likely to be placed fully under assad’s control in 2021, leaving iran with a key role in the country, ties to the Hezbollah in the region, and possible links to Russia.

The U.S. is faltering badly in iraq. it has sharply reduced its presence after helping to break up the iSiS “caliphate,” and so far, it has ceded many potential aspects of its strategic partnership with iraq after Popular

Mobilization Force (PMF) attacks. iraq may emerge under far more serious iranian influence.

The Yemeni civil war is so far being won by the Houthi, iran’s strategic partner. This gives iran access to the Red Sea and the ability to threaten Saudi arabia from the South – a threat that also includes precision-guided, conventionally armed missiles capable of striking key Saudi petroleum facilities and other infrastructure. if the U.S. withdraws from afghanistan in May 2021, it will remove the U.S. presence near iran’s eastern border and may expand iran’s influence in afghanistan, Central asia, and South asia – as well as to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

FAILED PROGRESS IN THE SOUTHERN ARAB GULF STATES Steps like the Saudi-Emirati boycott of Qatar have left the Southern arab Gulf states even more divided with sharply limited military progress in the Gulf Cooperation Council, and they have restricted progress in creating integrated air and missile defense and arab capabilities to defend against iran’s steadily improving hybrid naval-air-missile capabilities in the Gulf and nearby waters.

UNCERTAIN US POLICIES The U.S. emphasis on “burdensharing” and arms sales, while reducing its presence in the region, has seriously undermined arab trust in the U.S. – although military-to-military relations remain good.

The U.S. has failed to address the strategic importance of the Gulf – which supplies some 20% of the world’s petroleum and is critical to importing states like China – in its new military strategy. Many U.S. officials talk about energy independence, but U.S. dependence on manufactured trade with asian states dependent on Persian/arab Gulf petroleum is now a far higher percent of total U.S. trade – and of the U.S. GdP – than past U.S. dependence on Gulf petroleum imports.

IRAN’S REACTIONS iranian popular distrust and reactions to U.S. sanctions are still a factor, but the Supreme Leader, Revolutionary Guard, and other hardline elements have greatly strengthened internal security forces, excluded all moderate candidates from the recent legislative election, and cracked down on other moderate voices, which clearly dominate the government and may well not allow any moderate voice to run for President in 2021.

The government has also had significant success in exploiting assassinations like that of Qassem Soleimani to build up popular anger against the United States.

INHERITING EXACTLY WHAT? These are not arguments that the U.S. is losing to iran in the Gulf. Many U.S. and partner military capabilities have improved, sanctions have created problems for the iranian regime, israel remains strong, and some arab arms buys have (or will be) major advances in air power.

They are, however, warnings. First, the Biden administration cannot simply return to the past in regard to the JCPOa; and second, many aspects of the U.S. position in the region have deteriorated over the last four years. important as events like the assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh may be in some ways, they are only a small part of the full story. anthony H. Cordesman holds the arleigh a.

Burke Chair in Strategy at the Center for Strategic and international Studies in Washington, d.C. He has served as a consultant on afghanistan to the United States department of defense and the United States department of State.

What is behind India’s ‘love jihad’ legislation?

THIS PROPOSED LEGISLATION COULD NOT ONLY MARGINALISE FURTHER MUSLIMS BUT ALSO UNDERMINE WOMEN’S AGENCY AND RIGHTS

Al JAzeerA

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Pragya Tiwari

ndia is a triumph of the imagination: innumerable cultures, languages, and worldviews, often at odds with one other, loosely bound by a constitution that frames equal rights and common values for an impossibly diverse population.

One of these values is secularism, which has been upheld as a central constitutional principle despite the chequered relationship between Hindus and Muslims – the two largest religious communities in india – historically tested by friction and violence.

More recently, however, this principle has been challenged by an unprecedented rise of islamophobia.

The rise of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is rooted in a sociopolitical ideology that asserts that india is a Hindu country, has led to the marginalisation of Muslims through activism on the ground, propaganda online, and policymaking at the

highest levels. The latest in a line of disenfranchising policy decisions is legislation criminalising so-called “love jihad”. This month, india’s largest state, Uttar Pradesh, ruled by the BJP, has passed an ordinance to this effect and four other states are likely to follow suit.

“Love jihad” is a term used by the political and religious right to describe an alleged phenomenon where Muslim men lure Hindu women, by hook or by crook, into marrying them and converting to islam. Right-wing propagandists claim that this is an organised racket rooted in a widespread conspiracy.

However, successive probes have failed to find any evidence that such a conspiracy exists and the central government has admitted that the term has no credible definition.

Moreover, not only are any actual offences that may be committed in this regard, such as forced conversion or marriage that is entered into under false pretences or coercion, already punishable under existing legislation but also the wide framing of the proposed legislation goes against india’s constitution and sound judicial precedent. What then is the intent behind pushing for such legislation? One way to answer this question is to examine its premise and potential consequences. ideas of purity of blood are intrinsically linked to ideologies that seek to establish the supremacy of one imagined community over another. in the 1930s, aspersions over the citizenship of Jews and intermarriage be-

tween “aryan” people and Jews were the foundation of the nuremberg laws.

The proposed laws against “love jihad” should be, similarly, placed within the context of the Citizenship amendment act (Caa), a piece of controversial legislation passed last year that enables the state to question the citizenship of indian Muslims.

While this legislation sought to other Muslims as “outsiders” to the country, the narrative of “love jihad” seeks to other them within indian society.

The central premise of the proposed new legislation vilifies Muslim men in particular, and, by association, Muslims in general, as untrustworthy and malicious – entrenching suspicion in the psychology of the nation. it reduces them to their religious identity by implying that they are committed, foremost, to “religious warfare”, even when it comes to something as intimate as love. it also reduces them to second-class citizens who cannot take for granted the right to life and liberty guaranteed by the constitution.

Rule of law and access to justice in india are both cripplingly weak for its disenfranchised classes and communities. Muslims, who are also more likely to be poor, constitute a disproportionately high fraction of under-trials in india’s prisons.

Last year, the government passed a law criminalising instant divorce among Muslims. While withdrawing legal sanction of the regressive practice was a laudable step,

serious concerns were voiced about the decision to criminalise it. The anxiety was the same as it is with the impending legislation on “love jihad” – that the law can be misused to incarcerate members of the community under false pretexts.

The Frankenstein monster of “love jihad” has already taken on a life of its own.

Fake rumours and videos have been circulated on social media alleging that women are being targeted by Muslim men, leading to riots and lynching. The chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, adityanath, while announcing that he intends to enact a law against “love jihad”, also declared that Muslim men guilty of the crime ought to be killed.

Casting the Muslim man as the potential enemy furthers not only an ideological agenda but also a political one. The creation of a common enemy helps to consolidate a Hindu vote bank, bringing together voters on a highly emotive issue and encouraging them to vote along religious identity lines rather than other concerns, giving the BJP an edge over other parties during state and national elections.

The added consequence of this legislation, designed to push a political and ideological agenda, will be the further entrenchment of patriarchal norms. in large parts of india, women still struggle for basic freedoms with little say in matters concerning their education, work, finances, and marriage. if a woman dares to defy her family

and community in order to assert her right to choose her own partner, she could be faced with threats, violence and, at times, even death. Commonly, families of women who elope press charges against the couple in order to deploy state machinery to break them up or make an example of them. “Love jihad” laws are bound to be weaponised in this context, but there is also something even more insidious about them.

The idea of “love jihad” is rooted in the mindset that women are chattel and a family’s honour hinges on safeguarding them against marauders. in the aforementioned speech, adityanath used the words “the honour of our daughters and sisters” referring to what he believes is at stake.

The insistence that there is a conspiracy also insinuates that women are gullible and therefore lack the agency to make sound decisions with respect to their own lives. in the recent past, “love jihad” has been used as an excuse to restrict women from using mobile phones and to encourage vigilantes who take to moral policing and harassment of couples.

The idea also further endangers women’s right to privacy by creating a mechanism to question and probe their consent to marry and convert.

Every society struggles with dark instincts. By writing a lie into law, the BJP is appealing to these very instincts that can tear through the fragile constitutional bond that has held india together as a democracy, despite the odds, and further put in danger the lives of india’s Muslims and women.

Pragya Tiwari is an editor and journalist based out of New Delhi. She writes for a number of publications on policy, politics and culture.

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

BUSINESS 09

EXPoRtS in novEmBER RiSE 7.2Pc to $2.15Bn

corporate corner

ISLAMABAD

KARACHI: Aga Khan University Examination Board has partnered with Knowledge Platform to prepare their students for the future. Present at the signing of agreement were Mahboob Mahmood, Founder Knowledge Platform, and Shehzad Jeeva, Director Aga Khan University Examination Board. PRESS RELEASE

DRAP suggests 38pc reduction in Remdesivir price ISLAMABAD INP

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has suggested a 38 per cent cut in the price of 100mg Remdesivir injection, recommending its price to be kept not more than Rs5,680. According to details, the federal government is likely to approve a major reduction in the price of Remdesivir injection used to treat Covid-19 patients, as a summary in this regard was sent to the federal cabinet by the health ministry. As per the summary, DRAP has recommended the government to fix the price of 100mg Remdesivir injection at Rs5,680 following a decline in its rate in the international market. Earlier on June 16, the federal cabinet had fixed its price at Rs10,873, which was then lowered to Rs9,244 by DRAP on August 17. As of now, the price of Remdesivir injection has fallen from $50 to $35 in the international market.

Five-year textile policy likely to be unveiled this week ISLAMABAD TLTP

The federal government is all set to announce the Textile Policy 2020-25 during the current week, sources revealed on Tuesday. Sources said the export target has been fixed at $20 billion under the new textile policy, which has been finalised after consultation with all the stakeholders.

Under the proposed policy, the electricity tariff will be at US 7.5 cents per unit while duties on gas, water, and others will be reduced to boost the sector, they added.

Meanwhile, the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association has welcomed the proposed textile policy of the federal government and pinned hope that this will put the economy on track. It is to be noted that Prime Minister Imran Khan had last week approved the Textile Policy 2020-25. Besides, the PM had also directed the authorities concerned to immediately resolve the problems faced by the textile industry. On Monday, Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister Mian Aslam Iqbal had assured the textile millers that their problems would be resolved on a priority basis. Talking to a delegation of APTMA, he had noted that huge export orders were placed with the textile sector, owing to which the government could not afford to close factories even for a day.

t

GHULAM ABBAS

HE country's exports crossed $2-billion mark for the second consecutive month in November, registering a 7.2pc growth over the same month of last year, Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood revealed on Tuesday.

Taking to Twitter, Razak Dawood felicitated the exporters for "working hard despite the resurgence of Covid-19 in Pakistan".

As per the figures shared by the commerce adviser, exports in November 2020 rose 7.2pc to $2.156 billion when compared with $2.011 billion

in November 2019.

"We have just received provisional figures for export of goods. I wish to congratulate our exporters that in these very difficult times with resurgence of Covid19 cases in Pakistan & globally, our exports have increased by 7.2pc in November 2020 over the same period last year," he said. "Thanking Allah Almighty, we have once again crossed the $ 2 billion mark in exports per month."

While the data regarding exports of the last month is yet to be issued by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the provisional data shared by the commerce ministry shows that exports during the first five months (July-November) of FY21 were recorded at $9.732 billion as against $9.545 billion in July-Nov FY20.

It is to be noted that exports had also crossed $2billion mark in Oct 2020 despite contraction in major markets and uncertainty created by the recent resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic.

As per the ministry, exports had started increasing after July 2020 and were back on track to preCovid levels.

Between July to October, exports fell by 0.1pc to $7.540 billion, from $7.547 billion over the corresponding months of last year.

In FY20, exports fell by 6.83pc or $1.57bn to $21.4bn, compared to $22.97bn the previous year.

Data showed visible improvements in export orders from international buyers, mainly in the textile and clothing sectors since May.

700MW Azad Pattan hydropower project nears financial close ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Pakistan and China have step another step towards achieving the financial close of the 700MW Azad Pattan Hydropower Project, which is part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), by signing more agreements in this regard on Tuesday.

"The project agreements namely 'GoAJ&K Implementation Agreement' and 'GoAJ&K Water Use Agreement' were signed by Azad Jammu Kashmir Power Secretary Zafar Mahmood Khan and Azad Pattan Power Private Limited CEO Li Xiaotao," a statement issued by the Ministry of Energy on Tuesday read. "With an investment of over $1.35 billion, the Azad Pattan project won't be relying on imported fuel, enabling the country to move towards cheaper and greener power generation."

AJK Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider Khan, Federal Power Minister Omer Ayub Khan, Planning Minister Asad Umar, CPEC Authority Chairman Lt Gen (r) Asim Saleem Bajwa, AJK Chief Secretary Dr Shahzad Khan Bangash and Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) Managing Director Shah Jahan Mirza were also present on the occasion.

It may be noted that the 'Government of Pakistan Implementation Agreement', 'Government of Punjab Water Use Agreement' and 'Tripartite Power Purchase Agreements' for the project had already been signed in the presence of Prime Minister Imran Khan in July this year.

As per the statement, today's development will further pave the way for achievement of financial close of the project.

Earlier, a Letter of Support (LOS) was issued by PPIB to Azad Pattan HPP, which is a Run-off-the River Scheme on River Jhelum located at dual boundary between AJ&K (District Bagh) and Punjab (District Rawalpindi). China Gezhouba Group and Laraib Group Pakistan are the shareholders of the project.

The consortium of lenders consists of China Development Bank, China Construction Bank, Industrial & Commercial Bank of China and Bank of China. Azad Pattan Project is being implemented by PPIB under the Policy for Power Generation Projects 2002 on built, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) basis for a term of 30 years after which it will be transferred to the GoAJ&K free of cost. The project, while bringing in valuable foreign direct investment, will provide en-

ergy of about 3,266 GWh per year to the national grid by 2027.

The project also will play a crucial role in stimulating local economy by providing employment and business opportunities during its construction periods. Furthermore, the governments of AJ&K and Punjab will earn significant amount of revenue on account of taxes, fees, etc. while during operation period, water use charges of approx. Rs1.5 billion would be shared equally by both governments on annual basis.

Moreover, after completion of construction work, tourism activities around reservoir/lake and water sports, fishing etc. are also associated avenues for earning valuable revenue.

The participants of the signing ceremony appreciated the efforts of PPIB for efficient processing of hydropower projects, including the Azad Pattan HPP, and urged to continue facilitating investors in the same run for achieving optimum results.

"Azad Pattan is part of four hydropower projects being processed

by PPIB under the CPEC banner, of which 720MW Karot and 884MW Suki Kinari hydropower projects are under construction, while 1,124MW Kohala project will soon financial close," the statement concluded.

PM to formally launch private airline 'AirSial' on Dec 9 Prime Minister Imran Khan will visit Sialkot on December 9 to formally launch the newly established private airline, AirSial. According to media reports, the PM will also address a special ceremony at the Sialkot International Airport. Earlier, while charing the federal cabinet meeting, the PM had approved the issuance of aviation license to AirSial. On Sunday, three Airbus A320-200s of AirSial — the airline launched by Sialkot’s business community — arrived at the Jinnah International Airport, Karachi, from Phoenix, Arizona, via Egypt.

The privately-owned airline was granted permission to run its operations by the Aviation Division in 2017. It also plans to launch flights to foreign destinations. NEWS DESK

MArket DAily Bulls dominate PSX as benchmark index gains 596 points KARACHI STAFF REPORT

Stocks surged at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday, with the benchmark index gaining over 650 points intraday amid improved market sentiment. "The market accumulated gains throughout the session, as buying activity was observed across the board, particularly in the energy sector (HUBC).

Investor sentiments were lifted after media reports that FBR has announced to collect Capital Gains Tax on a yearly basis as against the exiting practice of monthly collection," a report issued by Arif Habib Ltd read.

SUMMARY: The benchmark KSE-100 Index remained in the green throughout the session, registering its intraday high at 41,724.04 after accumulating 655.22 points. It settled higher by 596.45 points at 41,665.27. Among other indices, the KMI-30 Index surged 829.35 points to end at 67,147.45, while the KSE All Share index gained 355.28 points, closing at 29,204.74. The overall market volumes jumped from 388.52 million shares in the previous session to 488.85 million shares (+26pc). Average traded value also increased by 39pc, from $87.9 million to $121.9 million.

Unity Foods Ltd (UNITY +6.24pc), TRG Pakistan Ltd (TRG +1.02pc) and Hum Network Ltd (HUMNL -1.95pc) topped the volume chart, exchanging 67.87 million, 37.16 million and 32.57 million shares, respectively.

Sectors that painted the benchmark index green included power generation & distribution (+121.44 points), banking (+78.13 points) and cement (+53.81 points). Among the companies, Hub Power Company Ltd (HUBC +110.18 points), Engro Corporation Ltd (ENGRO +32.13 points) and Pakistan Tobacco Company Ltd (PAKT +28.50 points) remained the top contributors. Adding 3.01pc to its cumulative market capitalization, the power generation & distribution sector ended as the session’s top performer, with Hub Power Company Ltd (HUBC +6.30pc), Kot Addu Power Company Ltd (KAPCO +2.79pc) and K-Electric Ltd (KEL +1.10pc) posting decent gains.

Pakistan’s IT exports, tech stocks set to boom in next decade: report LAHORE TAIMOOR HASSAN

With more than 20,000 graduates entering the workforce each year in the technology sector and a prevailing pool of more than 300,000 IT engineers in the world’s fourth fastest growing freelance market, Pakistan’s technology exports have the potential to reach $10 billion from the present $1.2 billion in the next 10 years.

A recent report on Pakistan’s IT sector published by Karachi-based securities brokerage firm Khadim Ali Shah Bukhari Securities (KASB) argues that the technology sector has the most promising outlook in Pakistan and trends point towards a healthy contribution of IT to the overall exports and significant representation of technology stocks in the public market.

In addition to the burgeoning talent pool,

Pakistan has a large and young English speaking population that gives it a competitive edge like India. India’s present IT exports are about 49 per cent of its total exports whereas Pakistan’s IT exports are around 4pc of the total exports.

“Moreover, the internet has made the virtual migration of labour much easier.

Many of the fortune 100 companies and leading technology unicorns engage outsourced technology talent from Pakistan,” the report notes.

Pakistan’s IT exports, estimated at around $1.2 billion in 2019, grew by 46pc in Q1FY21.

“We think there is an opportunity of 10x growth in IT exports,” the KASB report argues.

The report further outlines that in the public market in Pakistan, technology stocks have under-representation and account for 1.8pc of the total market cap.

This trend was typical of most emerging,

or perhaps all markets, until the last decade, the report notes, underlining that over the last ten years, there has been a swift sector shift from E&P and financials into technology.

“Technology, which was 1.5pc in 1997, now accounts for 32pc of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. Seven out of the top 10 companies in MSCI EM Index are technology companies, including all of the top six,” it reads.

Extrapolating on the trends, the report argues that a similar shift will happen in Pakistan over the next ten years that will be driven by both growth in the market caps of existing companies as well as new IPOs of digital businesses.

“The interest is starting to grow which is evident by the successful IPO of TPL Trakker and the 194pc increase in the share price of Systems Ltd, the largest listed company,” it adds.

UNDERVALUED TECHNOLOGY

CMYK

STOCKS: Even for the technology stocks that are listed, the KASB report argues that the said stocks are grossly undervalued.

“Sell side consensus is tracking historical PE multiples, DCF, dividends or even book values to value growth based technology companies,” it says.

Consequently, there is mispricing, which is visible both while comparing Pakistani companies with regional peers and also while comparing valuations of the public with private market capital raise rounds in Pakistan.

The report noted that the stock value of two of the largest publicly-traded IT companies in Pakistan, Systems Limited and The Resource Group (TRG), was undervalued by at least by 45pc and 214pc respectively.

“While the stock has outperformed the KSE100 Index by 132 per cent year to date and the market has started to value in IBEX and Afinti, it [TRG] still remains massively

undervalued compared to the portfolio valuations,” the report stated.

The report attributed the undervaluation of stock to tepid effort on investor relations and limited disclosures by the company [TRG].

“People like to invest in what they see and what they know. For instance companies like Habib Bank would have more visibility because of their branches everywhere and people would like to invest more in that. For retail investors, that is absolutely true,” author of the report and KASB Securities Managing Director (MD) Ali Farid Khawaja told Profit.

“It is even true for institutional investors because they would not read the annual reports of technology companies because the management of the company is not based in Pakistan and hence less visible. So one of the reasons why technology companies are undervalued in Pakistan is because people don’t know about these companies,” he concluded.

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

10 FOREIGN NEWS UN seeks access to 96,000 Eritrean refugees in Tigray where food running out GENEVA AGENCIES

The United Nations refugee agency appealed on Tuesday to Ethiopian authorities for access to 96,000 Eritrean refugees in the northern Tigray region, where it said food is believed to have run out during the month-long conflict. Babar Baloch, spokesman of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, told a Geneva news briefing: “Our extreme worry is that we hear about attacks, the fighting near the camps, we hear about abductions and forced removals, so this is very important for us to have that access to go and see what has happened over there.”

Biden shortlist for White House key environmental post shows focus on environmental justice WASHINGTON AGENCIES

President-elect Joe Biden is vetting three environmental justice leaders to head up the White House agency that will take the lead in coordinating efforts to safeguard communities disproportionately affected by pollution, according to sources familiar with the process. The shortlist for head of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) signals a focus by the incoming Biden administration on environmental policies that aim to ensure improved clean air and water for poor and minority communities that have historically taken the brunt of industrial pollution. The Biden transition team is considering Mustafa Santiago Ali, Cecilia Martinez and Brenda Mallory to lead the CEQ, according to three sources familiar with the process. The position requires Senate confirmation. A spokesman for the transition team declined to comment on possible appointments. Ali is vice president for environmental justice at the National Wildlife Federation and a former senior adviser for environmental justice at the Environmental Protection Agency. He did not confirm whether he was being vetted, but told Reuters the incoming administration should make sure federal agencies consider how industrial permitting affects surrounding communities. “We will need to do a full environmental justice analysis across all agencies, which would make sure we are addressing the gaps and not causing additional impacts on communities that are unseen and unheard,” he said. Martinez is an adviser to the Biden team handling the transition at CEQ, and is president of the Center for Earth, Energy and Democracy, an organization that provides research to environmental justice groups. She did not confirm if she was being vetted, and downplayed the possibility she would be picked. Mallory is head of regulatory affairs at the Southern Environmental Law Center and previously served as general counsel for the CEQ. She said CEQ was the right agency to carry out Biden’s environmental justice agenda because of its oversight of federal environmental permitting and engagement with outside stakeholder groups. But she added that Biden would need to increase the office staff “if environmental justice were to be elevated.” Mallory said she was aware of being under consideration for a role in the administration but had not yet been vetted. One source close to the transition team said the incoming administration also started final vetting this week for three finalists to head up the EPA California air regulator Mary Nichols, clean air advocate Heather McTeer Toney, and National Wildlife Federation Chief Executive and Biden adviser Collin O’Mara. An announcement would likely come after other positions, such as attorney general, were named, the source said.

Nichols and McTeer Toney told Reuters they would be interested in heading up the EPA.

AfTEr 4.2 millioN Covid-19 CAsEs iN NovEmBEr, Us piNs HopE oN vACCiNE WASHINGTON

T

AGENCIES

HE United States entered the final month of the year hoping that promising vaccine candidates will soon be approved to halt the rapidly spreading novel coronavirus after 4.2 million new cases were reported in November.

The new Covid-19 cases were more than double the previous monthly record set in October, as large numbers of Americans still refuse to refuse to wear masks and continue to gather in holiday crowds, against the recommendation of experts.

With outgoing President Donald Trump’s coronavirus strategy relying heavily on a vaccine, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected to rule on Dec. 10 on whether to approve the

emergency use of a vaccine developed

by Pfizer Inc. A second candidate from Moderna Inc could follow a week later, officials

have said, raising hopes that Americans could start receiving inoculations before the end the year, although widespread vaccinations could take months.

Other global pharmaceuticals including AstraZeneca PLC and Johnson & Johnson also have vaccines in the works, leading a member of the Trump administration’s “Operation Warp Speed” program to predict the country could be vaccinated by June.

“One hundred percent of the Americans that want the vaccine will have the vaccine by (June). We will have over 300 million doses available to the American public well before then,” Paul Ostrowski, the vaccine program’s director of supply, production and distribution, told MSNBC television on Monday.

In the meantime, leading health officials are pleading with Americans to follow their recommendations and help arrest a pandemic that killed more than 36,000 people in November, pushing hospitalizations to a record high of nearly 93,000 on Sunday, according to a Reuters tally.

Friends or foes? Syrian refugees divided on fate of defectors GERA AGENCIES

Should former members of the Syrian security forces who have defected from President Bashir al-Assad’s government be prosecuted for war crimes, or should they serve as key witnesses in an effort to bring senior officials to justice?

The question has divided Syrian refugees and exiles who have fled a civil war in which hundreds of thousands of people have been killed and that has been marked by atrocities since it broke out in 2011.

In Germany, home to 600,000 Syrian refugees, prosecutors have used universal jurisdiction laws that allow them to prosecute crimes against humanity committed anywhere in the world to seek justice for victims of alleged torture and extrajudicial killings by Assad’s forces.

In the first case to be brought to a German court, the trial opened in April of two former Syrian intelligence officers

on charges of torture and sexual assault.

The two suspects had defected in 2012 and were granted asylum in Germany. Many of the Syrians now in Germany are asking if the defectors are friends or foes.

“The trial in Germany is wrong, strategically and morally. Defectors risked their lives to join the opposition and discredit the regime,” said Fawaz Tello, a veteran Syrian dissident.

“Who in their right mind is going to defect now when they see that people who had defected in the first months of the revolution are being put on trial?”

The Syrian government has regularly rejected reports of torture and extrajudicial killings documented by international human rights groups.

JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS: Mahmoud Alabdulah, a former colonel in the Syrian army’s elite 4th Division, is one of hundreds of defectors who have given testimonies to German and French judicial officials collecting evidence of alleged war crimes by the Syrian government

during the still-unresolved war.

He says a military card identifying his rank is the most valuable item of the few belongings he carried when he left Syria six years ago.

The pink, plastic-covered piece of paper has given more credence to testimonies he delivered in France and Germany against the Syrian government, he says.

“I saw soldiers being executed for refusing to open fire on protesters and heavy artillery fired toward civilian areas,” said Alabdulah, a 56-year-old father of five, rolling a cigarette in a modest apartment in the eastern German city of Gera where he lives with his wife.

“I remember the night I decided to defect: February 13, 2012,” Alabdulah said. “I was praying in my room, lights off, at the Saboura military base (west of Damascus) and I said, ‘God, I don’t want to take part in such crimes, please help me get out of here’.”

Campaigners have hailed the

process in Germany as a first step toward justice for thousands of Syrians who say they were tortured in government facilities after attempts to establish an international tribunal for Syria failed.

“No one has the right to tell victims they should not seek justice,” said Anwar al-Bunni of the European Centre for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR) which is representing victims in the torture trial.

“Ignoring suspected war criminals is equivalent to white-washing the Assad regime.”

The main defendant in the trial, Anwar R., is charged with 58 murders in a Damascus prison where prosecutors say at least 4,000 opposition activists were tortured in 2011 and 2012.

He has denied all the charges.

He was an intelligence colonel in Assad’s security apparatus but defected in 2012 to Turkey, where he became active in the opposition Free Syrian Army.

He came to Germany in 2014 and was granted asylum.

Conservative justices wary of blocking Trump immigrant census plan WASHINGTON AGENCIES

Conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices on Monday appeared reluctant to block a vaguely defined plan by President Donald Trump’s administration to exclude immigrants living in the United States illegally from the population totals used to allocate congressional districts to states.

The court’s conservatives, who hold a 6-3 majority, signaled such a ruling might be premature based on the administration’s admission that it does not yet know how or if it will be able to implement the proposal, a facet of Trump’s hardline policies on immigration being pursued in his final weeks in office.

Challengers led by New York state and the American Civil Liberties Union have argued that Trump’s proposal would dilute the political clout of states with larger numbers of such immigrants, including heavily Democratic California, by undercounting state populations and

depriving them of House seats to the benefit of his fellow Republicans. The administration has yet to disclose what method it would use to calculate the number of people it proposes to exclude or which subsets of immigrants may be targeted. Acting Solicitor General Jeffrey Wall told the justices the administration could miss a Dec. 31 statutory deadline to finalize a Census Bureau report to Trump containing the final population data including the number of immigrants excluded.

The number of House districts in the 50 states is based on a state’s population count in the decennial national census, which was conducted this year. Democrat Joe Biden is set to become president on Jan. 20 and could reverse course if the apportionment numbers have not been finalized by then.

“We don’t know what the president is going to do,” conservative Chief Justice John Roberts said.

“We don’t know how many aliens will be excluded.

We don’t know what the effect of that will be on apportionment. All these questions would be resolved if

we wait until the apportionment takes place. Why aren’t we better advised to do that?”

The U.S. Constitution requires apportionment of House seats to be based upon the “whole number of persons in each state.” Until now, the government’s practice was to count all people regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. The justices were expected to decide the case on a expedited basis, with a ruling before the end of the year. The court potentially could dismiss the current legal challenge, a move that would leave open the possibility of subsequent lawsuits after the administration actually takes action.

Lawyers for the challengers urged the court not to toss out the lawsuit now, asking the justices to wait for a few weeks until more information is available on what data the Census Bureau intends to submit to the president. There are an estimated 11 million immigrants living in the United States illegally. The challengers have argued that Trump’s policy violates both the Constitution and the Census Act, a federal law that outlines how the census is conducted.

Analysis: Wary Turks aren't buying Erdogan's economic promise yet ISTANBUL AGENCIES

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s promise of a new economic era triggered a foreigndriven rally in the lira, but local investors have yet to be persuaded that policies they say have dragged on economic prospects for years will be reversed.

Interviews with local portfolio managers, gold sellers and business owners suggest Erdogan’s biggest challenge will be convincing Turkish individuals and companies he can turn last month’s rhetoric of market-friendly reforms into reality.

“There is a protective reflex”, built up after years of lira depreciation, said Baris Hocaoglu, general manager of Istanbul Portfoy, which manages 7 billion lira ($900 million) of assets and recommends a “cautious stance” to clients.

“Until the trust and stability are established, especially individual investors’ interest in gold and foreign exchange (FX)

will continue.”

Local wariness also reflects other risks, including the resurgent coronavirus pan-

demic and signs of friction within Erdogan’s government that could worsen.

Turks have faced mostly double-digit unemployment and inflation for four years. Twice since mid-2018 the economy has sharply contracted while half the lira’s value has evaporated, setting both back compared to peers.

Early last month, convinced by allies his economic policies were failing, Erdogan installed a new central bank chief who hiked interest rates to 15% to boost the record-low currency.

Foreign investors, who hold only 5% of Turkish bonds, then chased some of the highest yields in emerging markets, pushing the lira 12% higher. That rally was partially reversed by Turks, who still face negligible deposit rates, buying $4 billion of gold and foreign exchange in two weeks.

Locals could warm to the lira if deposit rates are pulled higher by further monetary

tightening, analysts say.

But for now they remain cool. Bankers say that for the first time in five years some Turkish energy importers are requesting market quotes for dollars and euros, while at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar gold coins and jewellery are selling at $3 above international prices.

Mehmet Ali Yildirimturk, deputy head of a city gold shops association who operates at the Bazaar, said only “concrete actions” from the government will win trust. “Until then the local investor is still interested in physical gold,” he said.

PANDEMIC AND POLITICS: A growing reason for caution is the coronavirus surge that has closed the doors to restaurants and schools, leaving people out of work as they were in a spring lockdown. On Monday, Erdogan announced curfews and said the government is taking careful steps to avoid “a full-blown economic and social crisis”.

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

42 MeMBerS of PakiStan SquaD in new ZeaLanD cLear Day-Six coviD-19 teSt

n

AGENCIES

EW ZEALAND’S Ministry of Health, according to Stuff.co.nz confirmed that 42 members of the Pakistan squad in the country have cleared day-six of the Covid-19 testing successfully.

An official revealed that day-six swabs were taken on Monday from the 46 members of the Pakistan cricket squad in Christchurch who to date have returned negative test results for the virus. 42 mem-

SEVEN MEMBERS OF THE SQUAD HAD ALREADY TESTED POSITIVE FOR THE CORONAVIRUS DURING PREVIOUS TESTS bers returned a negative result, three are currently under investigation to find out if they were historical cases and one member’s result is pending.

The team however will still not be allowed to start their training regimens until the Canterbury District Health Board med-

ical officer of health concludes that they are satisfied that these activities would not aid in the transfer of the novel coronavirus.

Seven members of the squad had already tested positive for the coronavirus during previous tests.

The Pakistan squad, which is cur-

rently staying at the Chateau on the Park in Christchurch, had been slammed earlier by New Zealand’s Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield for breaching the SOP’s.

The breaches however were self-contained within the squad and did not impact other individuals residing in the same facility.

The Ministry of Health stated that the compliance with the rules had ‘significantly improved’ while talking about the progress made by the Pakistan squad.

Aaron Finch assesses Mitchell Starc options after rough treatment AGENCIES Though India are the team with a host of bowling problems right now, Australia are not without their own concerns. Chief among these is Mitchell Starc, who has taken 1 for 147 from 18 overs across the opening two ODI games as India’s batsmen found him somewhat easier to line up than his pace counterparts Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

With Cummins being rested from the remainder of the white-ball games, Starc’s role may need to change according to the tactical requirements of the captain Aaron Finch, but for the most part the captain is understanding of a fast bowler who has been among the world’s pre-eminent white ball merchants for most of the past decade.

This is not to say Starc has not fallen away in ODI performance in a similar manner to India’s new ball ace Jasprit Bumrah in the 18 months since last year’s World Cup, because he has. In that period since the Cup, Starc has claimed just 12 wickets at 54.25 in 11 matches, while costing 6.28 runs an over across series against India, South Africa, New Zealand and England.

“I think he’s going okay. He hasn’t been at his very best,” Finch said. “You have to understand his standards are a lot higher than what you expect from most other people because of how dominant he’s been over the last 8-9 years, especially in the white-ball formats. He’s been super.

“So he’d love to be swinging the ball and getting it right early on but the reality is when you’re defending big totals and you’re playing against good players, they are coming hard at you. So, there’ll be conversations had today about what we can do slightly different. Whether it’s a tactical thing or when we’re using him through the innings. We’ll chat about that today. Definitely no panic stations here from my point of view.”

The flipside, however, is Starc’s evolution as a Test bowler, for he has over a similar timeframe enjoyed the most fruitful passage of his long-form career. In eight Tests since late January 2019, he has scooped no fewer than 45 wickets at 18.42, with a stunning strike rate of 34.8 balls per wicket. Finch acknowledged that it was easier for Cummins and Hazlewood to flip from the IPL to whiteball duty at home, whereas Starc prepared by loading up on overs in the Sheffield Shield for New South Wales ahead of the Test schedule.

“At times it can be easier to go from T20 back to 50over cricket just because you’ve almost got the intent and then you can just rein it in a little bit more. He’s still bowled really well in the Shield in the first couple of rounds,” Finch said. “From my point of view, and chatting to other guys about his technique, and little things that his fellow bowlers and the fast bowling cartel really monitor, they seem to think he’s going really well. So it’s just a matter of time. There’s nowhere to hide in ODI cricket when

SPORTS 11

Dilbar Hussain returns to Melbourne Stars for BBL 2020-21

Pakistan quick Dilbar Hussain is returning to the Melbourne Stars for BBL 10 after his debut late last season. Hussain has been resigned as the Stars’ third overseas player and is available for the entire tournament after Haris Rauf was ruled out due to international duty. He is currently completing the mandatory 14-day quarantine in Western Australia and will be available for the Stars’ first match on December 11 in Canberra.

Hussain was a surprise inclusion in the Stars line-up late last season for a match against the Brisbane Heat. It was his first T20 at a professional level and he got a baptism of fire at the MCG finishing with figures of 1 for 56 from his four overs, with AB de Villiers taking hold of him although he did eventually claim de Villiers in the final over. But the 27-yearold continued his development in the PSL and was outstanding in the playoffs for Lahore Qalandars in November, taking seven wickets in three matches including 2 for 28 in the final. That continued development was enough for coach David Hussey to re-sign him. “I’m looking forward to working with Dilbar again this season and supporting his development together with our wider bowling group,” Hussey said. “His Stars debut was a whirlwind last year - it was his first senior T20 match and he effectively came down to Melbourne at very short notice and ended up bowling to AB de Villiers at the MCG. “He’s a genuine 140km/hr bowler with a good yorker and an incredible slower ball. With another year of experience and his time in the PSL, we’re keen to see what Dilbar brings to the table for us this year. The fact that not many players have faced him before can be a real advantage for us.” “I’m very happy to be coming back to the Melbourne Stars for the Big Bash,” Hussain said. AGENCIES

Jason Holder signs with Sydney Sixers for a three-game stint in the BBL you’re playing on some really flat wickets with quality opposition.” More broadly, Finch reckoned Australia’s bowling and fielding had improved from game one to game two, noting the outstanding catches from Steven Smith ad Moises Henriques. He was equally happy with Henriques’ canny overs of medium pace through the middle of the Indian innings on Sunday night.

“Our fielding definitely wasn’t up to scratch in the first game,” he said. “A few chances went down. In the second game, I thought it was a lot better. I thought our energy and our intent was great. Moises and Smudge took a couple of absolute hangers that turned the game really. Virat [Kohli] goes on and gets 130-140-150 or Shreyas [Iyer] goes on and gets a big score and they’re probably cantering towards 390. So, I think the way that we’ve bowled through the middle overs has been very impressive.

“India have come ultra-hard at the start. Obviously, like you’d expect chasing big totals and probably we’ve gone a little bit defensive really early. That happens. The way that [Adam] Zampa has bowled has been outstanding.

Moises bowled seven overs the other night. They were brilliant overs to get out of him through that middle period.

It was a really simple game plan and we adapted really well to that wicket as well. So, yeah all in all they’ve been pretty good performances.”

As for the replacement of David Warner, Finch said

he would weigh up the balance between promoting a current member of the side like Marnus Labuschagne and also leaving the middle order untouched, after it functioned so well given a strong platform in each of the opening two games. “The middle order’s been functioning really well the last little while, I think it played well in England. And it’s done a really good job in this series as well,” Finch said. “There’s a kind of not wanting to do that. Marnus is a class player. If we go that way great. Alex Carey the role of him and Maxy [Glenn Maxwell] at six and seven has been really crucial and provides a bit more freedom for that middle order to go about their business and be ultraaggressive as well. They’re a few reasons why I wouldn’t like to do it but there’s still a lot of good players there we can choose to do that role.”

Left-hand, right-hand combinations are among the issues that Finch is pondering. “It definitely has its advantages at times,” he said. “With Davey and I in particular we’re so different styles of play. Whether LH-RH it doesn’t make too much of a difference. As an example, if you use [Justin] Langer and [Matthew] Hayden as an opening combination. “They played so differently that you had to bowl totally different to each of them anyway, regardless of whether they’re both left-handed, both right or left-right. I think that’s what complements opening partnerships than just that left-right combo.”

West Indies Test captain Jason Holder has signed with BBL champions the Sydney Sixers for a three-game stint following the Test series against New Zealand. The travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand allows Holder to enter Australia without having to complete the mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Following the two-Test series in New Zealand, he will head straight to Hobart to play in the December 20 clash with the Adelaide Strikers.

He will also be available for the December 26 fixture against the Melbourne Stars and the December 29 match with the Melbourne Renegades. Holder, 29, comes in as cover for England bowler Tom Curran who needs to complete the mandatory 14-day quarantine after arriving from England’s limited-overs tour of South Africa. He joins fellow West Indian Carlos Brathwaite and England batsman James Vince as part of the Sixers’ overseas contingent. “I’m really excited to be coming to the BBL and the Sydney Sixers,” Holder said.

“I’ve wanted to for a few years now and this year I have the opportunity to come in and make some appearances and hopefully do a bit for the Sixers.” Holder said he was looking forward to reuniting with Sixers skipper Moises Henriques, having played alongside him in the IPL. AGENCIES

Shreyas Iyer ‘overwhelmed’ that Australia have devised a strategy for him AGENCIES Shreyas Iyer sees Australia’s short-ball strategy against him as an opportunity to score runs. In the first two ODIs, Iyer has walked in against fast bowlers who have, on both occasions, bowled to him with a short leg and leg gully catching and a clear plan to bowl rising deliveries at his body. Both times, he has been dismissed - one off a steep bouncer and the second a slower one. But Iyer said this plan plays into his attack, even suggesting it was a bit of an honour that Australia were plotting against him.

“I definitely know that they’ve planned against me,” he said, “so I’m really happy.

At least they’re coming up with a plan against me to get me out. I feel very overwhelmed and take it as a challenge because, you see, I thrive under pressure. And also, it really motivates to go against them. They set

attacking fields which really helps me to score runs, so I take advantage of that and I see to it that I make the best use of it.”

Iyer made 38 at just over run-a-ball in the second ODI, having come in during the ninth over with a plan that seemed to be centred on getting inside the line of the short bowling and hitting through the off side.

Without being too convincing, he did get deeper into the innings and take on spinners Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell in the middle overs. This hadn’t been the case during the first ODI, when Iyer was caught awkwardly between two or three options off the second ball of his innings.

“I knew the short ball was going to come so I was in two minds,” Iyer said of that dismissal. “I was thinking of pulling and at the same time I have the upper cut. I got stuck in between two shots and I couldn’t play the shot. So maybe that’s the reason I got stuck

in one place; and the ball came and hit the middle of the bat even that time.

“In the second match, I was just like look at the ball and react. It’s very easy to do that, rather than think what the bowler is bowling. You can actually predict, once you are set, what the bowler is going to bowl, so I usually give myself time at the start and that’s what I applied in the second match and it really worked out well.”

Iyer is on his first consistent run with the Indian side after debuting in 2017, and has impressed in the No. 4 role that was given to him after last year’s World Cup. Including his scores this series, Iyer has got a 50-plus score every two innings in his 20 ODIs so far, only nine of which have been played at home. As such, he said, this test of his technique was not something that would compel him to make too many tweaks mid-tour.

“I feel that it’s just the mindset which

CMYK

you need to adjust,” he said. “[I’ve] been playing for so many years… obviously it’s my first time playing in Australia and on these wickets. We all know that the wickets are bouncy and the bowlers are only going to bowl to you in the body area and the short balls are going to come to you.

“Rather than bending down too much, it’s really important that you stand upright and play the ball, so that it’s easy to pick the short ones as well. I’ve set my patterns right from the start. Every time I play, I give myself a bit of time, get set, and then take on the bowlers. And if they come up with that field, it’s really important that I get aggressive as well because with that [field set], it’s really easy to manipulate the field.”

A more immediate factor contributing to the rustiness, Iyer said, were the conditions.

Acclimatising to Australia, having come from the UAE, and then practicing on

pitches that he called “completely different” from the ones in the two games so far, have all contributed to the challenge for batsmen.

And for the bowlers too.

“If you see the amount of workload they’ve gone through in the IPL - playing 14 games - and after that they’ve come here and stayed in quarantine - definitely it plays on your mind. And it plays with every individual in the team, it’s not just the bowlers,” he said. “We’re working on some routines and processes which haven’t gone well for us in the last few games. And I’m sure it’s just the transition phase from T20 to one-dayers - it’s really difficult, especially for the bowlers coming in and bowling ten overs on the trot.

“And also fielding for 50 overs. So it’s not at all easy from their point of view. There are many more matches coming ahead and I’m sure they’ll come back really strong and with a positive frame of mind.”

Wednesday, 2 December, 2020

PrAyEr TImINGS

NEWS

irANiAN Mps seek hArdeNiNg Of NUCleAr sTANCe AfTer sCieNTisT killed DUBAI

A

AGENCIES

bill requiring Iran’s government to suspend nuclear inspections unless sanctions are lifted, and ignore other restraints on its nuclear programme agreed with major powers, was passed by the hardlineled parliament on Tuesday.

But the government promptly said the move, proposed in response to the assassination of a top nuclear scientist on Friday, could not change Iran’s nuclear policy, which was the province of the Supreme National Security Council.

“Death to America! Death to Israel!” lawmakers chanted after passing a draft of the bill in a session broadcast live on state

radio. Lawmakers later passed the full bill, including a provision requiring the government to suspend United Nations nuclear inspections if Western powers which are still part of the 2015 nuclear accords, as well as China and Russia, do no re-establish Iran’s access to world banking and oil markets within a month.

Parliament has often demanded a hardening of Iran’s position on the nuclear issue in recent years, without much success. In this case, the government must decide whether a sharp response to Friday’s killing of nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh might jeopardise the prospect of an improvement in ties with the United States once Joe Biden takes over from Donald Trump as president.

“The government believes that, under

indian government invites protesting farmers for talks NEW DELHI: India’s government invited protesting farmers for talks on Tuesday, seeking to allay concerns about new laws growers fear could pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices, leaving them at the mercy of private buyers. In a letter addressed to 32 farmers’ unions, Sanjay Agrawal, the most senior civil servant at the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, urged farmers to come forward for talks with government ministers and officials. The government had earlier invited farmers for talks on Thursday but agreed to meet on Tuesday due to cold weather and the coronavirus pandemic, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said. The protests have intensified since last week when farmers arrived in trucks, buses and tractors at Delhi’s Singhu border with Haryana state and blocked the main northern highway into the capital. Earlier, an umbrella group representing different farmers’ unions slammed the government for saying it would engage in talks with the farmers if they moved their protest off the roads into a designated stadium site. If the government is serious about addressing the demands of farmers, it should stop laying down conditions, they said. Small growers fear the new laws will make them vulnerable to competition from big business. AGENCIES

Bitcoin price reached all-time high at $19,900 CALIFORNIA: According to data from Coinbase Pro, the price of the world’s first and largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization has jumped by over 7% within 24 hours. That price level surpassed the previous all-timehigh record on Coinbase Pro of $19,891.99, which was last seen almost three years ago in December 2017. The new all-time-high comes after a period of sustained price growth since September, when bitcoin’s price was trading between $10,000 and $11,000. Meanwhile, bitcoin’s total market capitalization is nearing $370 billion, accounting for 61.4% of that of all cryptocurrencies, according to data from CoinGecko. On November 17, bitcoin’s market capitalization exceeded the previous all-time-high record of $328.89 billion for the first time since December 16, 2017. AGENCIES

the constitution, the nuclear accord and the nuclear programme... are under the jurisdiction of the Supreme National Security Council... and parliament cannot deal with this by itself,” government spokesman Ali Rabiei told reporters, according to state media. A senior Iranian official said on Monday that Tehran suspected a foreignbased opposition group of complicity with Israel in the killing of Fakhrizadeh, whom Western powers see as the architect of an abandoned Iranian nuclear weapons programme. The group rejected the accusation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has declined to comment on the killing. Israeli cabinet minister Tzachi Hanegbi said on Saturday he did not know who had carried it out.

The bill, which still needs to be en-

dorsed by a clerical body to become law, also called for Iran to enrich uranium “for peaceful uses” to 20% purity in breach of the nuclear accord. Iran has already breached the limits set in its deal with world powers, which scrapped sanctions in return for curbs to Tehran’s nuclear programme, to protest at Trump’s withdrawal from the accord and the reimposition of sanctions. The maximum fissile purity to which it has enriched uranium has remained around 4.5%, above the deal’s 3.67% cap but below the 20% Iran had achieved before, and below the 90% purity that is considered weapons-grade.

Biden has said he will return the United States to the 2015 deal if Iran resumes compliance. Iran has always denied pursuing nuclear weapons.

China investing massively in new weapons, warns NATO chief BRUSSELS AGENCIES

China’s growing military power holds potential dangers for the transatlantic alliance, according to NATO’s civilian chief.

“China is investing massively in new weapons,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said. “It is coming closer to us, from the Arctic to Africa, and by investing in our infrastructure.”

That unease spurred the foreign ministers of the alliance to dedicate a session of their annual meeting, held virtually this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, to the rising communist power.

The dialogue took place as Stoltenberg is orchestrating a NATO Reflection Group to identify the transatlantic alliance’s priorities over the next decade — an effort that Stoltenberg hopes will culminate in a visit from Presidentelect Joe Biden in the spring.

“That’s the best way for all allies’ heads of state and government to meet, to sit down,” he said. “And at that summit, I will also put forward my proposals on how to continue to strengthen and continue to adapt NATO as an agile and strong alliance.” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s team put an emphasis on China’s anti-satellite weaponry, which could be used to sever military communications in a conflict and cripple Western economies.

“China is very active in space, and there needs to be a lot of work in space to make sure that we have, hopefully, an ability to see where satellites are and determine what our deterrence and defense capabilities can be to assure that those cannot be used against us — against any of us,” U.S. Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison said Monday.

“That’s just one area.”

The foreign ministers put a spotlight on China one year after the landmark declaration that Beijing’s power presents “both opportunities and challenges” to the alliance, a statement that

NATO wArNed TO TAke rATiONAl view Of ChiNA’s rise, fOreigN pOliCy BEIJING: The Chinese Foreign Ministry has warned NATO to take a rational view of China’s rise and foreign policy, but said it is willing to engage in dialogue with the alliance on the basis of mutual respect. Hua Chunying, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, told the gathered press on Tuesday that Beijing was prepared to cooperate with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Her remarks come on the same day as NATO is set to publish a report which purportedly outlines the growing threat posed by the Chinese state. Hua said China has always had a purely defensive national defense policy and hoped that NATO would recognize this. “I hope NATO can establish a correct view of China and take a rational view of China’s development and foreign policy. China is willing to conduct dialogue and cooperation with NATO on the basis of equality and mutual respect,” the spokeswoman commented. “China never engages in intimidation or intimidation diplomacy. On the contrary, China is the victim of intimidation and intimidation diplomacy,” she added, a clear reference to increased US interference in the South China Sea and East China Sea. The ‘NATO 2030’ report will propose a number of solutions to ensure the alliance stays ahead of adversaries China and Russia. The documents reportedly contain 138 proposals for reforming the organization amid growing concerns about its purpose and relevance, which even its members have begun questioning.

French President Emmanuel Macron labelled the organization “brain dead” last year. “China is no longer the benign trading partner that the West had hoped for. It is the rising power of our century and NATO must adapt,” one NATO diplomat who has read the report told the media. AGENCIES

amounted to an unprecedented display of concern about China by a transatlantic security bloc that traditionally has focused on threats nearer to European borders.

“China is not our adversary,” Stoltenberg stipulated. “Its rise presents an important opportunity for our economies and trade. We need to engage with China on issues such as arms control and climate change.” Those comments gave voice to the U.S. and European belief that Chinese Communist officials have a key role to play in an international effort to mitigate the effects of climate change. “We’re going to have a principle on the National Security Council whose full-time job is to fight climate change,” Biden said last week.

“For the first time ever, that will occur.”

Chinese state media pointed to the Biden team’s rhetoric about “the dangers of climate change” as a potential opening to diminish tensions between Washington and Beijing. “Such a shift in focus would clearly be far more objective than the Trump administration’s national security priorities,” a Global Times editorial suggested Sunday.

Stoltenberg emphasized that such climate cooperation shouldn’t obscure the deeper fissures between the Chinese Communist regime and Western capitals. “China does not share our values,” he said. “It does not respect fundamental human rights and tries to intimidate other countries. We must address this together, both as NATO allies and as a community of likeminded countries.”

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saudi agrees to allow israel commercial planes to cross its airspace: Trump aide WASHINGTON/RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has agreed to let Israel airliners cross its airspace en route to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after talks between Saudi officials and White House adviser Jared Kushner, a senior Trump administration official said late on Monday.

Kushner and Middle East envoys Avi Berkowitz and Brian Hook raised the issue shortly after they arrived in Saudi Arabia for talks. “We were able to reconcile the issue,” the official told Reuters. The agreement was hammered out just hours before Israel’s first commercial flight to the UAE was planned on Tuesday morning. The Israir Airline flight was at risk of being cancelled with no overflight agreement. The direct flights are an offshoot of normalisation deals Israel reached this year with the UAE, Bahrain and Sudan. The Emirates has already reaped benefits from normalisation, including the White House pushing forward with arms sales, including top-of-the-line F-35 fighter jets, to the Gulf country, significantly changing the military balance in the Gulf and affect Israel’s military edge. “This should resolve any issues that should occur with Israeli carriers taking people from Israel to the UAE and back and to Bahrain,” the official said. Kushner and his team were to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later this week, as well as the leader of Kuwait. One goal of the trip is to try to persuade the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to end a three-year blockade of Qatar. The peninsular Gulf state has been under an air, land and sea blockade

by GCC members Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, and non-GCC member Egypt, since June 2017. They cut ties with Doha after claiming it supported “terrorism”. AGENCIES

Covid-19 drives 40pc spike in number of people needing humanitarian aid: UN NEW YORK: The Covid-19 pandemic has fueled a 40% increase in the number of people needing humanitarian assistance around the globe, the United Nations said on Tuesday, as it appealed for roughly $35 billion to help many of those expected to be in need next year. “If everyone who will need humanitarian aid next year lived in one country, it would be the world’s fifth-largest nation,” UN aid chief Mark Lowcock said. “The pandemic has wreaked carnage across the most fragile and vulnerable countries,” he added. The United Nations has set out 34 humanitarian response plans covering 56 countries for 2021, aiming to help 160 million of what it forecasts to be 235 million most vulnerable people worldwide facing hunger, conflict and the impacts of climate change and the coronavirus pandemic.

“We always aim to reach about two-thirds of those in need because others, for example, the Red Cross, will try to meet the remaining gap,” Lowcock said. He said this year donors gave a record $17 billion to fund humanitarian operations and data showed that aid reached 70% of the people targeted. While Lowcock noted the $35 billion needed for 2021 was a lot of money, he said it was a “very small” amount compared to what rich countries have spent protecting their citizens during the pandemic. Key among the concerns for Lowcock is averting famines in countries including Yemen, Afghanistan, northeast Nigeria, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burkina Faso. AGENCIES

OPEC+ forced to reschedule meeting as disagreement on curbs persists VIENNA TLTP

The meeting with OPEC+ was set to resume on Tuesday, but a late and a rather surprising announcement came in the afternoon saying that the meeting had been rescheduled to December 3 as more talks are needed, TLTP has learnt.

Earlier, the OPEC meeting ended on Monday without an agreement among its members regarding the production cuts next year. Instead, the meeting ended with three of its heavyweights—Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—holding different opinions as to how to handle things going forward.

Oil prices fell on Tuesday after an OPEC meeting to decide on production policy failed

to reach a consensus and was delayed amid concerns about oversupply and weak demand.

International benchmark Brent crude oil was trading at $47.49 per barrel at 0648 GMT for a 0.81% drop after closing Monday at $47.88 a barrel. American benchmark West Texas Intermediate was at $44.98 per barrel at the same time for a 0.79% fall after it ended the previous session at $45.34 a barrel.

Oil prices have gained more than 27% in November with rising hopes for a quicker economic and oil demand recovery instilled by the successful coronavirus vaccines. Investors were also waiting for the outcome of the OPEC+ meetings expecting at least a three-month extension of the current production cuts of 7.7 million barrels per day (bpd).

Convened on Monday, the 180th ordinary

meeting by OPEC countries failed to reach a consensus and the group agreed to meet again one day later.

Production cuts are supposed to be lowered by around 2 million bpd to 5.8 million bpd as of Jan. 1, 2021 in line with an agreement in April. But experts say OPEC+ meeting on Tuesday was postponed due to some dissenting voices from OPEC ranks. These countries, including the ones with strained economies, are in favor of a higher production level.

Saudi Arabia has been reported as the predominant and perhaps only swing producer in the group is said to favor an extension of the current level of oil production cuts, according to sources. Russia, the country that sank the deal in March over a similar issue, is said to favor a gradual increase in

production starting in January. The UAE, OPEC’s third-most prolific oil producer, is okay with extending the production cuts asis into January and beyond only after all other OPEC members comply with their cuts.

This was precisely what the UAE’s Energy Minister said a couple of weeks ago as well. The UAE made headlines last week after its largest state-run oil company, ADNOC, was rumored to be questioning the wisdom of its OPEC membership during these tough times. The UAE’s Energy Ministry later issued a statement stressing the fact that it had always been a committed member of OPEC. The UAE either met or exceeded its 2.59 million bpd quota in September and October, according to OPEC’s Monthly Oil Market Report, but fell short of its goal in August.

Published by Arif Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk

The issue being bandied about is whether OPEC+ members should continue on with its current level of production cuts, or whether they should ease up on the production cuts by 2.0 million bpd as the group had originally planned—or some variation of these scenarios. Most analysts suspect the group will eventually decide on a threemonth extension of the current level of production cuts. Pertinently mention that speaking at the opening session of the 180th ordinary meeting by OPEC on Monday, Algerian Energy Minister Abdelmadjid Attar recalled positive Covid-19 vaccine developments and said the effects of the vaccines will likely begin to be significantly apparent in the second half of 2021 as the global deployment of vaccines will take time.