Ep15june2015

India can escape its Kashmir cauldron through Musharraf’s road-map Situationer M Ziauddin

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HE sudden escalation in tensions in recent days between Pakistan and India amidst belligerent rhetoric and sabrerattling seems to have set the two countries on a course leading nowhere but to the usual wasteful longdrawn stalemate causing in the process an unnecessary setback to all the agreed upon past confidence building measures, especially the one that had kept the people-to-people contacts intact despite Mumbai carnage of November 2008.

The current tension is certainly not going to lead to a war between India and Pakistan because nuclear powers don’t go to war.

What is needling Modi is not anything Pakistan has done lately or even in the recent past. It was actually his utter failure in his childish attempts since he became the Prime Minister of India on May 28, 2014, to constitutionally annex for good the Indian held Kashmir (IHK) that had made him so mad that instead of controlling the damage he had already caused to what can only be regarded as ‘India’s Kashmir cause’ he went after Pakistan so as to divert the attention of his voters from his own Herculean follies in IHK. In the run up to the IHK elections in December 2014, Modi worked on a diabolic

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18 migrants found dead in Niger’s desert GENEVA –The bodies of 18 west African migrants hoping to reach Europe have been found in the Sahara desert near Arlit in Niger, the International Organization for Migration said on Sunday.

The discovery of the group offers a rare glimpse of what migration experts say is a hidden tragedy in the Sahara. Many thousands are attempting to cross the vast and inhospitable terrain in order to reach the Libyan coast, where they hope to begin another hazardous trip by boat to Europe.

“This case is indicative of the difficulties of these journeys, even before reaching the boats in Libya,” Giuseppe Loprete, Continued on Page 7

10 dead as tigers, lions roam Tbilisi roads after floods T BILISI —Lions,

tigers, bears and other wild animals escaped from a zoo in the Georgian capital Tbilisi Sunday, adding to chaos caused by flooding that killed at least 10 people, officials said.

Police and soldiers were hunting down the animals, recapturing some and shooting others dead, while rescuers airlifted scores of people trapped by the floods.

Prime Minister Irakli

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Convene APC to distill national response to India ................................................

Pakistan stands bugged all around ................................................

To bring FATA youth to mainstream See Page 04

‘Save the Children’ allowed to resume work Interior Ministry suspends closure order STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—The Ministry of Interior has suspended its own orders to shut down international aid organisation Save the Children’s operations in Pakistan.

A confidential memo has said, “The competent authority has desired that action on above letter [to seal the charity] may be held in

abeyance till further orders.”

“The organisation [Save the Children] can continue its work in Pakistan as it has been doing for decades until any further orders,” a senior official of interior Ministry said.

“We are in process of regulating all INGOs and NGOs and all international organisations have been directed to follow the new

laws or close their offices,” he added.

Earlier, Government administration officials accompanied by police arrived at the charity’s office in the heart of Islamabad after working hours and placed a lock on the door and a notice saying the building had been sealed.

“We have sealed the office of Save the Children on

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Syrians fleeing the war pass through border fences near the Turkish border crossing at Akcakale in Sanliurfa province.

Modi loses nerves due to Pakistan’s rise: Hafiz Saeed ASIM QADEER RANA ISLAMABAD —Slamming India for issuing threatening statements to Pakistan, chief of Jama’t-ud-Dawa Hafiz Saeed has said that New Delhi has ‘gone mad out of frustration’ due to Islamabad’s rise and goodwill.

In an exclusive interview with Pakistan Observer at an undisclosed location, the JuD chief spoke his mind on different aspects of revived Pak-India tension, saying New Delhi was totally to be blamed for the recent hostility.

“It is a matter of fact that India cannot digest our rise. It is doing stupid and crazy things out of frustration. And issuing childish warning shots is linked to this very episode,” he said.

Elaborating on his viewpoint, Hafiz Saeed said Pakistan’s successful military action against terrorism

and its improved relations with Afghanistan made a pill too bitter to digest for New Delhi. “This is a nightmarish scenario for India that never spared an opportunity to malign and ridicule Pakistan.

Tables are turning on India. And it is feeling the heat of our successes,” he said.

The JuD chief added, “Apart from these factors, our ever strengthening relationship with China, and the strong resolve demonstrated by both the states to establish China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is the last nail in the coffin for India. India is deeply fearful that it is being marginalised due to Pakistan’s

continued successes, diplomatically, militarily and strategically,” he said adding that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement confirming India’s involvement in fall of Dhaka in 1971 was not only a sheer act of desperation, it was also an attempt to stoke PakistanBangladesh tension. In this context he added, “Back in 1972, we ran a ‘say no to Bangladesh campaign’ because this country was formed out of the terror motives of India. Now, again, India is using it as a tool against Pakistan. Today, there is a need to run this kind of campaign again.

Bangladesh, under this antiPakistani Prime Minister Haseena Wajid, is blindly dancing to the tune of India.”

2 Baloch rebel commanders with 57 aides surrender Youths urged to play role in national mainstream OUR CORRESPONDENT KHUZDAR—A day after 49 militants surrendered and renounced violence, two more commanders of the banned Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) and Tazeem Lashkar-e-Balochistan (TLB), along with 57 militants laid down their arms and surrendered before the government in Khuzdar on Sunday.

Pakistan Muslim League-N provincial president Nawab Sanaullah Zehri was also present on the occasion.

Commanders of the banned BLF Din Jan alias Meeran and TLB leader Ubaidullah alias Beebarg have vowed to become a part of the national main-

stream. Both were given shawls of Pakistani flags, and also chanted slogans of ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ and ‘Balochistan Paindabad’.

At a press conference here, provincial minister Sanaullah Zehri said both the militant commanders belonged to the banned

Picture on Back Page Lashkar-e-Balochistan.

“Our doors are also open to other young men who have gone to the mountains. You have been misled by tribal leaders who are sitting in Switzerland while you are fighting in the mountains,” said the provincial minister addressing the 57 rebels who had given up arms.

“Disgruntled Baloch should come back from the mountains, will welcome them all,” said Zehri, sitting alongside Ubaillah who announced his decision to bid farewell to armed rebellion and to join the mainstream.

Sunday’s development comes 10 days after Wali Mohammad alias Haji Kalati, a key leader of the banned United Baloch Army (UBA), surrendered to authorities along with 50 supporters.

Zehri said they would be provided full citizenship rights.

He said those tempting the poor Baloch masses towards so-called ‘freedom’ while sitting in Switzerland and London had no support of the people of Balochistan

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Group involved in cops murder traced STAFF REPORTER K ARACHI /I SLAMABAD – Security forces have traced a 15-member group involved in killing police officers in Karachi.

According to the agencies, the group was operated by Commander Irdhad Ullah and Daod Mahsud from Afghanistan and also had roots in Waziristan.

The group was accused of assassinating Superintendent of Police Ejaz Haidari, Deputy Superintendent of Police Abdul Fateh, DSP Majeed Abbas and DSP Zulfiqar Zaidi.

Moreover, terrorist Daod Mahsud was a former police officer who was deployed at East Zone to monitor security arrangements of the area.

Meanwhile, security agencies arrested three

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Targeting those funding terrorism News Analysis Ikram Sehgal

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HAIRED by Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah, the Apex Committee was recently told by the DG Rangers Maj Gen Bilal Akbar, that out of an estimated Rs 230 billion collected illegally from hapless Karachiites annually on one pretext or other, a fair amount of it was being used to fund terrorism.

This extraordinary genera-

tion of black money was due to outright extortion (Bhatta), from water supply, land-grabbing, smuggling of Iranian diesel, collection of hides and skins. Funds were extracted from illegal marriage halls, parking tax and drugs business, matchfixing, money-laundering, beggars’ mafia, with cybercrime and foreign funding of seminars also playing a key role in crime funding and promotion of terrorism structure. Ghost employment has been in place in a systematic way generating millions on a permanent basis.

The DG Rangers said “china-cutting” (probably a new term for the English lan-

guage) consists of construction on govt land, encroachment on govt land and on private property.

Working under a coordinated system, the land-grabbing mafia include political parties, city district government, district administration, construction companies, estate agents and police officials, most of them patronised by known politicians. The amount extorted from small markets, roadside vendors, graveyards and schools runs into billions of rupees. The DG Rangers also noted that the amount collected illegally from the Fish Harbor is distributed among different groups fighting Lyari’s gang wars

and some influential personalities of Sindh.

An enormous amount of money is used to feed private armies of political groups and influentials of the Province.

Quite a charge sheet!

But why did this become public almost a week after the Apex Committee meeting of June 4 which includes many of the influentials of Sindh so being indicted (at least by aspersion)? An extraordinary display of sheer hypocrisy that the Apex Committee should take a decision to set up a “Committee” (another one!) to “resolve the issues for

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Thousands flee as Kurds advance on IS-held Syria town A K Ç A K A L E (Turkey)— Kurdish forces advanced Sunday to the gates of a Syrian town and clashed with Islamic State jihadists, an upsurge in violence that saw Turkey open its border to fleeing civilians.

Backed by Syrian rebel fighters and US-led air strikes, the Kurdish militia pressed their offensive on the northern town of Tal Abyad, a strategic supply route from Turkey to IS’s self-proclaimed capital of Raqa.

Hussein Khojer, a commander with the Kurdish People’s Protection Units, said fighting raged on the eastern edges of Tal Abyad, just 50 metres from the town itself.

“We are fighting for control of the first checkpoint,” Khojer told AFP in Beirut, adding that the advance came after three days’ of heavy clashes. He said IS had tried to block the advance by blowing up two bridges.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Kurdish fighters “just

waded across” and had reached the town’s southeastern outskirts but had yet to enter.

Kurdish sources say the goal is to cut off a crucial supply line for the jihadists, who have been accused of bringing in foreign fighters and supplies across the Turkish border.

Fearing a major battle, Arab and Kurdish civilians fled their homes and headed for the border fence with Turkey, where thousands had been clustered behind barbed wire at the Akcakale crossing.

Turkey later began accepting onto its territory refugees, an AFP photographer said.

Dozens of them, many carrying sacks of possessions, started passing through the Akcakale border gate onto Turkish territory as thousands more awaited their turn to cross on other side.

It came after two days of them being trapped between the IS jihadists on the Syrian side of the border and Turkish troops on

the other who fired water cannon and even pepper spray to keep them at bay.

Fears have been building in the area for days, as the Kurdish YPG militia and its allies advanced from east and west on the town of about 15,000.

By Saturday the YPG had seized at least 20 villages southwest of Tal Abyad, according to the Britain-based Observatory which relies on a wide network of sources across Syria.

The advance sparked fear among civilians who fled in droves and slept the night at the fence in the open.

Many could be heard asking in Arabic for help, and holding up empty bottles, pleading for water in scorching early summer temperatures.

A Kurdish activist who visits the front line daily said residents were seeking refuge wherever they could. “Tal Abyad is almost completely surrounded,” Arin Shekhmos said.— AFP

PM congratulates nation on one-year completion of Zarb-e-Azb

HBL acquires Barclay’s banking business in Pakistan

90pc terrorists wiped out from Waziristan: Bajwa

AMANULLAH KHAN

ISLAMABAD—Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Sunday congratulated the nation particularly the Pakistan Army on completion of one year of Operation Zarbe-Azb against terrorism.

According to a PM House statement, the Prime Minister said Zarb-e-Azb was the manifestation of the resolve to root-out terrorism from the country.

He said the whole nation was thankful to the mothers, sisters and wives who had sacrificed their sons, brothers and spouses respectively to purge the country of terrorism, and also prayed for them.

“The nation will remem-

ber their sacrifices forever due to which Pakistan was

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successfully eliminating terrorism and heading towards progress,” the Prime Minis-

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Business resumed as MQM cut short strike KARACHI—Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s (MQM) half-day strike against Sindh budget ended in the province on Sunday.

Shops and petrol pumps opened after midday whereas traffic flow also increased on the roads.

On the call of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), half-day strike against Sindh budget was observed

KARACHI—Habib Bank Limited (HBL), has acquired Barclays Banking operation in Pakistan with effect from June 15 with the formal approval of the State Bank of Pakistan. This amalgamation is apparently a mile stone in the financial sector of Pakistan.

It may be recalled that HBL, Pakistan’s largest bank in the private sector, had announced earlier that it had entered into an agreement with Barclays Bank to

in Sindh including Karachi and various other cities.

Most of the trading centres, shops, petrol pumps were closed whereas traffic was rare on the roads.

Besides this the hotels and bakeries which open early morning were also shut down.

Rabta committee appealed the public, transport-

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FIA starts probe into missing necklace I SLAMABAD —The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) following the directives of Interior Minister, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has started the investigation into issue of disappearance of an expensive necklace, donated by the wife of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the flood-hit people of Pakistan in 2010.

The necklace had gone missing from the warehouse of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) after which Interior Minister had ordered FIA for investigation of missing necklace donated

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Son kills mother, two bodies recovered SHEIKHUPURA—Mother was shot dead by own son over domestic disputes while bodies of two persons were recovered from different localities here on Sunday.

A wicked youth hailing from Noorpur Virkan area of Sheikhupura after exchange of hot words with his mother over domestic disputes took out the gun and shot her dead and escaped the scene.

Bodies of two persons were recovered from Nazir Bridge and Shahzad Town localities.—INP

Intellectuals’ role against extremism sought

HYDERABAD: Chandni Market seen closed during strike on the call of MQM against Budget-2015.

Hayatabad-Jamrud Road flyover construction soon STAFF REPORTER P E S H AWA R —Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Mineral Development and Focal Person of Mega Projects, ZiaUllah Afridi Sunday said that provincial government decided to formally inaugurate construction work of new two-level fly over at Phase-III square of Hayatabad-Jamrud Road.

He said that Chief Minister Pervez Khattak would lay the foundation stone of this important scheme, named Bab-e-Peshawar (Gateway of Peshawar) on June, 17 (Wednesday).

He said this while chairing a meeting about arrangements for groundbreaking ceremony of the project here.

The meeting also reviewed progress on the ongoing development schemes and planning of various mega projects of the city.

On the occasion, the Minister was told that local government department awarded the contract of this mega project to National Logistic Cell (NLC) for ensuring quality and transparency.

He was told that an agreement to this effect was signed between Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) and NLC wherein the latter would accomplish the construction of this high rise flyover complex in record period of 120 days with an estimated cost of Rs 187740 million.—APP

Siraj urges PM to convene Islamic summit on Myanmar issue ISLAMABAD—Ameer, Jamaat e Islami, Abdullah Maruf, besides JI deputy pulled out and treated in most inhuPakistan, Senator Sirajul Haq, has said that the Myanmar Muslims were suffering unparalleled brutalities in human history but the so called civilized society and human rights champions were silent spectators.

Addressing a big protest demonstration organized by the JI in D Chowk, Islamabad, to express solidarity with the Rohangya Muslims, he wondered why those raising hue and cry over animals rights were blind to the burning alive of Rohangya youth and the molestation of their women folk.

Prominent Rohangya leader

chief Mian Muhammad Aslam, and JI Punjab chief Dr Syed Waseem Akhtar, also addressed the gathering which also included large number of women and the Christian community.

Sirajul Haq urged Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to convene Islamic summit to announce a common strategy for the protection of the Muslims all over the world, especially the Rohangyas.

The JI chief deplored that the Muslim youth in Burma were being slaughtered, the children were being burnt alive. The pregnant women were being stripped naked, their infants were

Sherpao seeks govt steps to end Afghan reservation

STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—National Party Islamabad on Sunday announced to mark full presence of the party in the forthcoming local government elections in Islamabad.

The decision was made during a meeting of National Party Islamabad’s Cabinet and District Council which was convened to discuss emerging political scenario in the context of local body elections as well as to highlight party stance with regard to announcement of federal budget and other significant political developments.

Presided by Ayub Malik, President National Party Punjab, the meeting was attended by the members of Cabinet and Council members including Raja Jamil, organizer of Rawalpindi division and Rehana Hashmi, Secretary Human Rights Affairs, NP Punjab.

The participants were appraised about the letter of appreciation written by Senator Mir Hasil Khan Bizenjo, President National Party regarding for holding successful party convention of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Sidra Saeed, President NP Islamabad presented a comprehensive strategy for local government elections of Islamabad scheduled to be held on 25th July 2015.

Abdullah Dayo, General Secretary NP Islamabad.

ISLAMABAD—Chairman Ulema Council Pakistan Maulana Tahir Ashrafi said that all problems faced by the country could be resolved through national consensus and unity.

Talking to PTV, he appreciated the leadership of Prime Minister, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif who always took all political parities on board in all national decisions adding that this was the real democracy.

He said the federal government took on board all political parties about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and briefed them in details.

Tahir Asharfi criticizing statement of Indian Prime Minister said that Narendra Modi wanted to disturb the political stability and peace of the region.

To a question, Tahir said that elimination of extremism was vital for peace and progress of the region and there was no space for such people who were creating extremism and sectarianism.

He urged the government to take stern action against those people who were involved in extremism and sectarianism in the country, adding the government should adopt zero tolerance policy against all criminals.—APP

Heavy rain, hailstorm lash Dera Bugti QUETTA—The Bhaikar area of Dera Bugti received heavy rains and hailstorm, on Saturday.

According to the locals, torrential rains and hailstorm lashed Bhaikar area of Dera Bugti district which affected

standing crops. However, the weather turned pleasant after temperature dropped down due to rain. F l a s h flood was also reported in mountainous streams which caused suspension of traffic in the area.—APP

Rain at hilly areas likely ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Me- and its adjoining hilly areas. teorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain with gusty winds in northeast Punjab, Khyber Pakhtun khwa, and hilly areas of Balochistan, Kashmir and Gilgit Baltista. According to PMD, rain-thundershower with gusty winds is expected at isolated places in northeast Punjab (Rawalpindi, Gujran wala, and Lahore divisions), Hazara, Mirpurkhas, Kalat, Quetta, Sibbi, Naseerabad divisions, Islamabad, Kashmir

The Quetta Met Office forecast a dry weather for the provincial capital during next 24

hours. The maximum highest temperature was recorded 34 centigrade and the lowest minimum 17 centigrade.—APP

PESHAWAR—Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Chairman Aftab and reestablish cordial and friendly relations with each other Ahmad Khan Sherpao on Sunday expressed concerns over Afghan President Ashraf Ghani’s statement against Pakistan and asked federal government to take solid steps in order to end neighboring country’s reservations.

Aftab Sherpao expressed these remarks during a high level meeting at Watan Kor. He said such statements by the Afghan leadership could help create vacuum in the bilateral relations between the two brotherly neighboring countries.

“Both the states have been remained victim of terrorism and extremism for a long time and it is the time to revitalize

so as to bring long-lasting peace and economic prosperity in the region,” he added.

He, on the occasion, condemned India’s stance on ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and said that our archrival did not want to see Pakhtun majority areas developed, and termed its stance as a conspiracy against Pakhtun population. Talking about small provinces’ share in federal budget 2015-16, he said that federal government once again ignored small provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in funds allocation meant for development projects.—Online

Tourists throng coolly spots across Hazara Division ABDUL KHALIQ QURSEHI

NP to participate in LG polls

man manner.

The women and children ere being killed and their blood was put before dogs. All these brutalities were being committed in the present so called civilized era. Lakhs of women and children in Burma had been killed like cattle but there was no protest from any quarter. The UN and the OIC were least perturbed over the bloodshed in Myanmar.

However, he said that keeping silent on such brutalities was also unjust and it was time that the Pakistan government stepped forward and played its due role to stop this. —Online

QUETTA —Speakers including Chief Minister Balochistan urged poets, writers and intellectuals to play their due role to end extremism from the society as saying literature always put positive effects in creating a peaceful society across the world.

They said this while speaking at a two-day National Conference on Promotion of Literature of all Regional Languages organized

by Pakistan Academy of Letters here.

Chief Minister Balochistan, Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch who inaugurated the conference said: “Presently, the country is facing challenge of extremism and terrorism,” adding that this situation seek the due role of intellectual to change the mindset of the entire society towards positive directions.

He urged the writers to use their pen against extremism and terrorism as saying the bad smell of ammunition and explosives have spread in the country which needs the role of writers.—APP

All issues can be resolved thru consensus: Ashrafi

rates of the room charges while most of the hotels were booked and even tourists requesting for night in lobbies could not be entertained by the hotels managements.

Tourists also lodged the complaints of sky high rates of the foods charges with accommodation and district administration has drawn no mechanism to save the tourists from the highest ever costs of the food charges by the hotels and restaurants owners.

The most attractive spot for the tourists in Galyats areas was Harno where private organization has develop the tourists spot with boating facility also and had also installed some swings.

Traffic police was unable to control the ill planned movement of tourists who violating the traffic rules were parking vehicles on the sides of the roads making the path narrow and despite all, traffic inspector Abbottabad police Jamil Ahmed strictly ordered the all traffic staff to not to “Challan” the tourists and help them out to keep the flow of traffic on round the clock.

Rs 50m to be distributed among handicapped PESHAWAR—Social Welfare

Department Khyber Pakhtunkhawa (KP) is embarking upon a comprehenstart of holy month of Ramazan witnessed sive plan for rehabilitation and the un-expected flow of tourists to patronage of special people Abbottabad and other hilly areas of Hazara as Rs 50 million are being disDivision. tributed among 10,123 handiThe main KKH road was completely jam capped with cash amount of with the vehicles moving to upward and to Rs 5 thousand each while downward parts of the country by bumper more schemes are also in the to bumper touching vehicles and the norpipeline especially in the new mal journey of Abbottabad to Nathiagali years’ fiscal budget. and towards Mansehra, Narran and It was revealed by Dr Kaghan was tiring efforts for the tourists Mehar Taj Roghani, Adviser as long”Q” of vehicles were seen on the to Chief Minister KP, while adboth sides of the roads which kept the drivdressing annual day and cerers to move like turtle move. tificate distribution ceremony Abbottabad to Muree-Nathiagali and at Frontier Law College Abbottabad to Thandiyani roads proved Peshawar cantt. to be insufficient to cater the needs of the Other speakers including roads, according to reports, hotels were Principal of the College Akhtar overcrowded at Nathiagali, Ayubia, Ali Shah, besides highlightChangla Gali, Donga Gali and other hilly ing academic standard of the areas and most of the families spent nights institution greatly appreciated in the vehicles, with two reasons, one high candid steps of the present government for elimination of corruption and ensuring transparency in the society.

Roghani asked the outgoing law students to work with enthusiasm for providing cheap and speedy justice to the people especially the poor as they had to become lawyers and judges in practical life.

She said ensuring supremacy of merit, law and justice in the society especially in the officialdom is the topmost goal of present KP government.

She said her government was actively pursuing the agenda of change while record legislation had been made to bring about discipline in government’s affairs and ensure relief for the poor.

Similarly she said government was also endeavoring to ISLAMABAD: Ayub Malik, President National Party Punjab presiding over party meet- improve life standard of the ing on Sunday. masses.—APP

A BBOTTABAD —Last holiday before the

ATTOCK: Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Sheikh Aftab Ahmed distributing letters among teachers for granting them selection grade at MC Boys High School on Sunday.

Elahi raps Punjab govt for imposing new taxes SALIM AHMED LAHORE—Pakistan Muslim League-Q (PML-Q) senior central leader and former Punjab Chief Minister Ch Parvez Elahi has said that the poor and their children will still remain without medicine, education and employment even after 8th budget of Punjab by sitting rulers.

He said this while addressing a press conference along with party’s provincial General Secretary Ch Zaheeruddin Khan, Mian Imran Masood, Aamir Sultan Cheema and other party leaders at his residence here today.

Elahi said claimant of improving economic lot of the province, ending load shedding, unemployment and dearness Shahbaz Sharif ’s failure ample proof is that he is seeking donations from the people even for rescuing Rescue 1122, all grand projects of our tenure including 1122 and Traffic Wardens are being destroyed, oppression has been committed by levying new tax on farmers, there is no subsidy for them, whereas subsidy of Rs 2 billion per month is being given

to jangla bus in Lahore and Rawalpindi, all housing projects and Ashiana Scheme have also flopped like all other schemes, Rs 5 billion have been allocated for construction of prisons where food, residence and security will be free.

Elahi said that ten new taxes have been levied in the province, load shedding, poverty, dearness and unemployment have increased further, people, farmers, workers and employees all are cursing them, industrialists are also greatly worried, govt schools giving looks as if nobody caring, free medicines not available govt hospitals, Rs 100 billion surplus province of our tenure is today paying Rs 100 billion annually as interest on loans.

Analyzing the budget at length and highlighting the failures of the govt, he said that in 2014-15 revenue receipts target was Rs 95 billion against which only Rs 46 billion were realized, now revenue receipts target has been reduced to Rs 72 billion as compared to last year whereas tax has been imposed on hair cutting, women’s make up.

Ziarat Judicial Complex foundation Q U E T TA —Chief Justice, Balochistan High Court (BHC), Justice Muhammad Noor Meskanzai laid down foundation stone of Judicial Complex in Ziarat.

Judges of the Balochistan High Court including Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan, Justice Hashim Khan Kakar, Justice Shakeel Baloch, Justice Kamran Mullakhel, Provincial Information Minister, Abdul Raheem Ziaratwal, Secretary Works and Communication, Ali Ahmed Baloch, Chief Engineer Azeem Khan and other officials were present.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Justice BHC said that no peace could be restored in a region without provision of justice to masses.

“Provision of justice makes a society stable and ensure peace in the area,” he said.

He announced to upgrade Civil Court Ziarat to Session Court besides appointing Additional Session Judge there.—APP

Convene APC to distill national response to India

MEDIA WATCH

Lost voices of world’s refugees

I

N the wake of consistent reports that India was conspiring to block implementation of the game changer project of China-Pakistan Eco nomic Corridor (CPEC) as it cannot see Pakistan progressing and prospering, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif has vowed to defeat enemy’s designs against the Corridor, saying it holds enormous potential for transforming the lives of region’s people. This, combined with other statements to protect national interests at all costs, would surely be a morale booster in view of continued threats from across the border.

Similar statements have come from renowned nuclear scientist Dr. A.Q. Khan pointing out that India could destroy the country only in dream as Pakistan is a nuclear power capable of blowing up each and every Indian city. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Interior Minister Ch. Nisar Ali Khan, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Advisor on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz too have conveyed it categorically to India that its aggressive designs would receive befitting response. However, India seems to be bent on doing mischief as its Defence Minister has once again hurled threats to Pakistan while Indian media is fanning antiPakistan sentiments. This is in sharp contrast to viewed being expressed by leaders of public opinion in Pakistan that there is need to lower tension for the sake of regional peace and stability. The desire of Pakistani people and the government for good neighbourly relations with all countries including India notwithstanding, there is need to prepare the nation to meet any eventuality. The emerging scenario is very grim and no doubt the armed forces are every ready to go to any extent to defend the motherland yet the cherished objective could better be achieved if there is clarity and cohesion in the national response. We, therefore, would suggest that the Prime Minister should convene an All Parties Conference (APC) for a brainstorming session on the current situation and how best to address the challenge.

Input from national political leadership and other strata of the society would go a long way in helping the Government devise a comprehensive and firm strategy. At the same time, efforts should be made to further strengthen Pakistan’s already closer ties with China in different areas.

Pakistan stands bugged all around A

S echoes of the startling revelations made by former Interior Minis ter and Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Interior Rehman Malik that two foreign embassies in Islamabad are bugging telephones of important personalities were still reverberating, the authorities on Saturday raided a big spy centre, arrested 15 persons and recovered radars and other latest equipment from Adiala road. The centre was used to spy on GHQ, Dhamyal Airbase, Zarar Camp and other sensitive installations in the area. And in a related development, it has transpired that fax machines installed in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Pakistani missions abroad, courtesy a friendly country, used to send a copy of every communication faxed to some third party.

All this is enough to establish the fact that Pakistan is almost completely bugged, raising questions about ability of our Government, agencies concerned and technologists to respond to threat to national security.

This is a very serious issue as it shows that nothing is safe and secure in the country. There are also reports that two/three Islamabad based embassies are spying for a powerful country for years and this is well known to the authorities concerned. The question, therefore, arises as to why the Government has so far failed to come out with a technological response to the challenge. If Pakistan could achieve mastery over complicated nuclear technology then there is no doubt that the country has the talented manpower to foil nefarious designs of our enemies. Ministry of Information Technology has, off and on, been sensitizing government officials and offices to exercise vigilance in the use of computers and software but obviously the problem is not confined to IT alone. We import plant and machinery as well as different types of equipment for various uses and no one knows whether or not all or some of them are bugged at assembly stage. This is particularly worrisome as the country get defence equipment from multiple sources and has also entered into a cooperative arrangement with a major country for strengthening safety of nuclear assets. No one knows for sure whether the arrangement has secured these assets or imperiled them due to spying tactics being used by the enemy. We would suggest to the Government to assign the task to different private and government research organizations to come out with anti-bugging technology and devices. This should be a local solution without involvement of any third country and we are sure our researchers would deliver.

To bring FATA youth to mainstream I

N a welcome development, Governor KPK Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan has disclosed that 5,000 FATA youth would be sent to the Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Qatar under the Pakistan Army’s Youth Employment Scheme (YES) for which Rs. 26.250 million were approved by the FATA Deveopment Working Party. In the first phase, a batch of 350 youth would be sent abroad for employment in these countries.

This is yet another concrete step to wean youth of FATA away from the possibility of being misused by negative forces. Earlier, the Government announced PM’s tuition fee scheme for Balochistan and FATA as well as scholarship for students of backward regions including tribal areas for pursuing education in institutions of higher education throughout Pakistan. Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif too has increased scholarships for FATA students for studies in universities of the province. The latest scheme YES is significant as it would take care of livelihood and well being of a number of families and afford an opportunity to youth from tribal areas to interact with other societies. The involvement of Army means that there would be total merit and transparency in implementation of the scheme, which would boost confidence of people of FATA. The problem of extremism and terrorism in FATA could not be handled with force only and that is why there has been consistent demand that accompanying economic, administrative and legal packages should be announced and implemented with speed so that window of opportunity created by flushing out terrorists is not lost.

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90-day mantra and other half-truths! if the Captain wishes to stick to the Constitutional mantra of 90 days, so be it.

One wonders if any of our other leaders have conideas about accomKhalid Saleem structive plishing diverse tasks in the Email: binwakeel@yahoo.com period of 90 days! If so, they would be well advised to come up with these ideas HAT is it that attracts so soon; given that this is being rumored much attention to the 90- in certain quarters to be the election day period in this Land of year and all. Our TV anchors, who the Pure? Think of anything and you never miss a cue, may wish to ask are confronted with a mention of the the honored guests at their talk shows 90-day period. The Constitution what they or their political parties fixes the interim period between a intend to accomplish within this haldissolved parliament and the newly lowed period. And, while they are at elected one at 90 days. The interim it, they may wish to dilate on what government set up to arrange fresh happened to those who failed to live elections has its life limited to 90 up to their commitments vis-a-vis the days. And those dabbling in recent 90-day period.

But seriously, why is the period history of this blessed land will recall that our erstwhile dictators be- of 90 days figuring again and again gan their regimes with the promise in our archives? On an allied subto restore the democratic govern- ject, one wonders if the gentle reader recalls that the prevailing fashion ment within a period of 90 days.

The aforementioned are just was for important people to opt for stray examples. One could go on and accomplishing things ‘by half’. This on listing the examples of the 90 day is a circumspect method that properiod in the life of our nation. And vides ample flexibility when it as if that were not enough, the Chair- comes to the crunch. Let us see how man of the PTI (otherwise referred this mantra works out.

Talk of poverty, illiteracy, shortto as the Captain) went so far as to announce that if his party came to age of clean drinking water – you power the menaces of terrorism and name it – whenever the person in corruption would be curbed in the charge chooses to allude to it, he or first 90 days. And of all occasions, she invariably unveils a strategy he made this dramatic assertion in aimed at cutting it BY HALF (it is his address at an Energy Conference never less or more, but precisely half). arranged by his party. Not being a This is not merely confined to indipolitical person, one is hardly quali- viduals or even to politicians. It hapfied to comment on the ‘what and pens also in much wider contexts. For wherefore’ of this brave announce- instance, it may be recalled that the ment. It is a tall order and one can UN-sponsored World Food Summit only wish the Captain luck in his in 2002 - amidst ringing calls to halt endeavors. Goodness knows, he is the scourge of hunger - had, in its colgoing to need plenty of it. One is lective wisdom, opted merely to remerely intrigued by the mention of peat a 1996 pledge to cut the hungry the 90 day period. Why not 80 days people of the world BY HALF by the or for that matter full 100 days? But, year 2015. Presumably, this pledge

Friendly Fire

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is being reiterated ever since.

At that Summit, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director General had been quoted as having averred, “Let’s start the race against time and show that together we can win the war against hunger and poverty, against skepticism and egoism”.

Brave words these and extremely well drafted! If such races could be won through multilateral diplomacy, then we – the peoples of the United Nations - would be well ahead of the game by now and the battle would be all over, bar the shouting.

High-sounding speeches and well-worded resolutions look good only on paper. With the benefit of hindsight, one can surmise that the pious resolutions of World Food Summits, as of other multilateral forums, are nowhere near achieving even their half-hearted goals. In the Third World, most blessed planners, aided and abetted by Westerneducated economists and statisticians, continue to dole out pious resolutions to alleviate poverty, hunger and want BY HALF by a certain year. Makes a person wonder, why the stress on doing things by half? Why not one-fourth, for instance, or one-third or even twothirds for that matter?

The truth of the matter is that HALF is not just any arbitrary ratio.

It has a connotation with a history behind it - and not just a mundane one at that. There is science to back it up, for one thing. So much so that such a complex thing as radioactivity itself is involved in this equation.

Facts are as follows: all radioactive substances, it happens, are constantly losing their radioactivity. Also each such substance has a certain pre-destined and fixed “half-life”. In one of the mysteries of nature, the one constant in the life cycle of these substances is never the complete life or any odd part thereof but always the

“half-life”. Now, what this jargon implies is that half of the substance “expires” during a certain fixed period of time. Subsequently, over the same time period half of the remainder would expire. And so on, ad infinitum. This is the immutable law of nature to perpetuate existence at least in so far as radioactive substances are concerned.

The aforementioned provides ample food for thought. In dealing by halves, nature has, in effect, ensured the survival of these otherwise highly volatile substances. Had the “life” period of these substances been fixed instead of “half-life”, the physical shape of the universe as we know it would long have been transformed. In other words, perhaps the dark forebodings of the doomsday merchants would have come to pass by now. The concept of “half-life”, therefore, is nature’s idea of a preservation package of sorts.

Be that as it may, one cannot help getting the queasy feeling that the idea of doing things by half implies that the problem in question is being shelved – put on the back burner so to speak. Political leaders, one finds, have readily fallen back on this handy formula. And the multilateral actors appear to have grasped it too. It is enough to give one the creeps! Radioactive substances notwithstanding, talking of cutting anything back “by half” does smack of a conscious effort to sweep the matter under the proverbial rug.

Where does that leave our favourite 90-day mantra? Could a perspicacious reader help develop a similar perspective as regards the 90-day period aforementioned? If so it would be a giant step towards solving a matter that has remained a mystery for a long time now.

— The writer is a former ambassador and former assistant secretary general of OIC.

Reviewing operation Zarb-e-Azb Dr Muhammad Khan Email: drmk_edu@yahoo.com

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N the eve of completion of one year to the launch of Operation Zarb-e-Azb, Pakistan Army Chief, General Raheel Sharif said that, “Entire nation expresses the resolve to eliminate the menace of terrorism. Operation Zarb-e-Azb is delivering decisive results and terrorists resorting to desperate actions.” The Army Chief was addressing the newly passed out cadets of Pakistan Navy on June 13, 2015. Indeed, Operation Zarb-e-Azb is a national operation against militancy and foreign conspiracies. The whole nation is behind the brave armed forces of Pakistan. As per a press release of ISPR, during this one year’s long operation, 2,763 militants have been killed in North Waziristan Agency. Besides, 837 hideouts have been destroyed and 253 tons of explosives have been recovered. Apart from that, a number of militant strongholds, communications infra structure and sanctuaries were cleared on a large scale, not only in NWA, but all over the FATA. Many analysts have raised questions about the completion of Operation Zarb-e-Azb. This curiosity arise from the backdrop that, few months back, it was said by ISPR that, 90% area of North Waziristan Agency has cleared of the militants and operation is heading towards its conclusion. Indeed, as far as NWA is concerned, the operation has practically concluded and its evidence is that IDPs of this agency are returning to their home towns quite safely. However, the

geography of the NWA is as such that, it has mountainous and difficult areas with highly exposed borders all over including Afghanistan.

The militants who fled the area and took refuge in the neighbouring areas of Afghanistan are at time poured into NWA and attack the military posts. At time they come and occupy unmanned hilly areas, close to Pak-Afghan border and attack the army and paramilitary posts.

Their hideouts are then pounded through artillery and at time the difficult terrain need aerial bombardment. That does not mean that, area was not cleared, but indeed, it is recurrence of militants and militancy and Army feel that, through cooperation from Afghanistan, the hideouts of militants in Afghan areas have to be cleared of TTP people.

There have successes too on this account. Had there been sealed borders all around, perhaps Pak Army could have announced ending of the operation long ago.

Announcing an end to the operation would mean, Army to leave the area and hand over the agency to civil administration. Then, the civil administration of the FATA is not sufficiently geared up, to take over the responsibilities of people’s security. Therefore, a formal announcement to end the operation is yet to be announced. Indeed, Pak Army and people of the area paid heavily towards the success of operation by clearing the area of the militants. Therefore, the gains, achieved over the years cannot be misplaced in haste. Prior to this operation, NWA was considered to be unassailable and there were many conspiracy theories linked with the area. Now, once there are no

favourites and all militants have been either killed or flushed out of the area, there are all the more reasons to consolidate the gains. This is only possible, once the sword of operation Zarb-e-Azb continues hanging over the militants and they dare not coming back to the area. Pakistan cannot afford the return of TTP into NWA, as it is a very difficult and complicated area of FATA, to be cleared off the militants.

In other agencies of FATA there have been recurrences of militants, once Army left the area, as the civil administration neither had the capacity nor will to resist the TTP militants. This has been observed in the past and Swat is one such example, where there is a peace and return of normal life, just because Pak Army is still ensuring its presence there.

There are no enough Army units in Pak Army, who can be deployed all along the borders and disturbed areas too. Therefore, those raise question about the timings of the operations, should also know the geographical difficulties and complexities of NWA, linked with the post operation situation.

Today the “entire world endorses Pakistan’s contributions and successes in this volatile war, where enemy’s location, capacity and intentions are unknown. US and entire US lead coalition; the ISAF failed in Afghanistan and went back as defeated forces. But, Pakistan is a victorious nation and its armed forces gained, what it seemed impossible, just a few years back. This is despite that, we are constantly engaged in this war and our rival forces are sparing no efforts to mobilize and sponsor the militants and separatists to destroy the peace and stability of Pakistani nation. Nev-

ertheless, we should know and tackle the forces who; sponsor the bloodshed in Balochistan, FATA, and Karachi. These are forces that constantly equip the militants (TTP and Baloch Sub-nationalists) and give them all finance to meet their needs, only to terrorize the state and society of Pakistan.

The statements of Indian political leadership since last few weeks are indicative of the fact that, India is frustrated now, as it sees failure of its strategy of destabilizing Pakistan through militancy and terrorism. Indian supported militants have either been killed or on defensive in pockets, waiting for their turn. The isolated and frustrated attacks, we witnessed in the past few months is indication of defeat of Indian RAW backed militants and militancy in Pakistan. Pak Army in particular and all security forces in general deserve a great appreciation. The successes against militancy and militants are also attributed to the people of Pakistan; as nothing was possible had the nation not been behind its brave armed forces.

The courageous and visionary statement of Army Chief General Raheel Sharif that, “We are ready to pay any price to protect our nationhood and safeguard Pakistan’s interests, be it Kashmir, development of new ports or exploitation of natural resources” means a lot, against global conspiracies and regional sponsors of terrorism.

Surely, Pakistan needs a political stability for economic prosperity and security is catalyst to both.

—The writer is International Relations analyst based in Islamabad.

HE global crisis of people forcibly displaced by con flict or persecution is expressed in many ways — in faceless numbers, always millions more than in the previous year; in the images of desperate people crowded onto rickety boats; in the pictures of endless tents on a barren, dusty field. Around the world, at least 50 million people either have been displaced inside their countries or have fled to foreign lands. Some, like Palestinians, have lived as refugees for generations; some, like Syrians and Ukrainians, are fleeing more recent conflicts; some, like the Rohingya of Myanmar, run from systematic persecution.

Once away from their homes, they become a “problem” — wards of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency or the countries in which they take refuge, usually as an unwanted and resented burden. In the many conferences and diplomatic discussions about refugees, their own voices are rarely heard. But when they are, as in the poetry of the Somali-British poet Warsan Shire, it is a cry of desperation: “You have to understand, that no one puts their children in a boat unless the water is safer than the land.” On World Refugee Day, June 20, the UNHCR is expected to issue another report, which is certain to point out the appalling global growth in the number of refugees and that the overwhelming majority, 86 percent, live in developing countries, which are least able to support them. Unfortunately, it is only when the human tide overflows its Third World boundaries, like the boatloads of Africans trying to cross the Mediterranean into Europe or the Syrians trying to cross from a refugee-saturated Turkey into Greece or Bulgaria, that the rich nations begin a panicky search for remedies.

The discussions in Europe about assigning refugee quotas across the Continent or about combating the unscrupulous people smugglers do at least raise awareness of the issue and its Europewide ramifications. But the flood of immigrants also feeds the growth of xenophobic fringe parties, making all politicians wary of opening their doors wide. In Australia, Prime Minister Tony Abbott has virtually closed the doors to boat people, shunting them off instead to countries like Cambodia or Papua New Guinea on the argument that allowing refugees into Australia would only encourage more refugees to take dangerous risks with the smugglers. In the United States, a country proud of its tradition of welcoming “huddled masses yearning to breathe free,” fewer than 1,000 Syrian refugees, of the almost four million who have fled the country since 2011, have been accepted. Efforts by the State Department to nudge the figure up a notch have been resisted by legislators claiming, as did Representative Michael McCaul, the Texas Republican who heads the House Homeland Security Committee, that this would create a “federally funded jihadi pipeline” for Islamist militants.

It is clear that the United States and other developed countries must find more room for refugees and must distribute the burden equitably, and it is equally clear that the UNHCR and other agencies dealing with the millions of refugees must be amply funded. But these improvements alone will not solve the problem. Nor will building higher fences. So long as there is conflict and persecution, people will risk losing all in an effort to reach safer shores. In the words of Ms. Shire, “No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark.” But it should not take mass drownings in the Bay of Bengal or the Mediterranean for governments to take action. It’s possible for wealthier nations to anticipate the continuing waves of displaced people and to shape long-term, orderly ways to help them weather the upheavals in their homelands or, if it becomes necessary, to help them settle in new lands, the way many of our parents and grandparents did. — The New York Times

Wealth is like seawater; the more we drink, the thirstier we become; and the same is true of fame.

— Schopenhauer German philosopher

Towards regionalism Amna Ejaz Rafi Email:amnaejazrafi@gmail.com

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HETHER it is terrorism, cross border movement along Pak-Afghan border, skirmishes across LoC or the recent CPEC, Pakistan had always been in the limelight. Pakistan’s battle against militancy despite the sacrifices rendered in the war was employed by the hostile forces to malign Pakistan’s image. Despite the criticism from the regional quarters, Pakistan is steadfast in its fight against terrorism. To attain a long-term success against terrorism, economic empowerment in real terms is a solution.

The case of FATA is a reflective of this, where 60 percent of population lives below the poverty line and the unemployment ranges between 6080 percent. With poor living conditions, and no employment opportunities, the temptation for the youth to opt for extremism is strong.To counter this trend, and to bring an end to militancy, economic empowerment is the need of the hour. In this backdrop, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

(CPEC) is a huge opportunity for the people of Pakistan, waging war against terrorism for more than a decade. Over these years, the foreign direct investment was at the lowest ebb, and Pakistan’s economy suffered.

Chinese President has termed CPEC as a ‘1+4’ cooperation structure with the idea to deliver tangible benefits to the people of Pakistan; economic corridor is going to be heart of Pakistan-China economic nexus and Gwadar port, energy, infrastructure and industrial cooperation are going to be the other four areas.The CPEC initiative would enhance the foreign investor’s interest in Pakistan, and would be a boost to the country’s economy. Out of US $ 46 billion economic package announced by China, US $ 33 billion have been allocated for energy projects.There would also be economic growth in the less-developed areas of Pakistan through which the corridor would pass. The commercial route connecting Central Asia with the Indian Ocean via Pakistan and Afghanistan, with a network of pipelines, railways and highways could also be materialized. The cost of transport from Pakistan to Central Asia would be cheaper, and gas, coal, oil could eas-

ily be transported through corridor.

The anti-state elements opposed to the corridor may try to misguide the locals of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Extremist/sectarian tendencies could also be exploited. Moreover, Pakistan’s relationship with India and Afghanistan are important for success of the economic corridor. Pakistan had taken steps to improve ties with both India and Afghanistan. The relations with Afghanistan, since new Afghan government took over, have considerably improved. Afghanistan is ready to cooperate with Pakistan against terrorism and border management. The intelligence agencies of Pakistan and Afghanistan have inked an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

On the contrary, no worthwhile improvement in ties with India is seen. India’s violation of Line of Control (LoC)along with the provocative statements of Indian leadership have badly hampered the peace process between the two sides. On the economic corridor, India’s opposition is apparent. India has recently announced to invest US $85 million in the development of Iranian Chabahar port, which they believe will be a

means to reach Afghanistan without having to rely on Pakistan.

SAARC as a region has failed to grow in comparison to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), European Union (EU).

The prime reason being lack of cooperation among the regional states.

In line with the present day realities, there is a need for a paradigm shift with focus on economic cooperation and energy connectivity. The need is to think from the regional perspective, and together emerge on the world stage as a regional bloc. Regional states will have to come forth, open up towards each other and grow as a region. Through enhanced economic diplomacy and cooperative policies, the regional divide could be bridged. The regional actors opposed to the corridor are in actualopposed to region’s progress. Apart from CPEC, other regional integration projects including BangladeshChina-India-Myanmar (BCIM), Central Asia South Asia (CASA), Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) should be pursued.

— The writer is Researcher, Islamabad Policy Research Institute IPRI.

Waning PTI amid election fiasco M S Khan Email:pio47pid@gmail.com

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EOPLE of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa went to local bodies elections on May 30 after a long gap of about ten years.

Though the much excited PTI-led provincial government did conduct the elections, yet the way it was done was no less than a total collapse of government machinery, display of administrative mismanagement, lack of proper coordination.

Where the killing of about 22 persons various election-related incidents of firing as well as clashes between rival groups on polling day have exposed the government’s incapacity to conduct any major exercise in the province, the rigging charges from almost all contesting parties including the PTI’s ally – Jamaat-e-Islami – have made the whole polling much controversial.

Following the rigging charges, killings and total mismanagement, Imran Khan first rejected the opposition parities’ standpoint. He, finding no excuse of all the mess, how-

ever, put the blame on the Provincial Election Commission saying it was the responsibility of the Commission and it could not deliver.

However, the PTI chief had to give in to the opposition forces when they threatened to opt for taking out protest rallies across the province against the election rigging and said that the provincial government is ready for fresh elections, this time under the supervision of army.

The whole election fiasco could be linked to the unplanned move and uncalled for haste of the other “passionate” PTI that wanted to get credit of holding the local bodies’ elections in the province, among the other provinces. Moreover, unlike the previous practice of making election alliance, the over-confident Imran Khan avoided entering any alliance and opted for solo flight.

Though the PTI has secured a leading position in the current elections, yet what its government’s ministers and workers have done under the shadow of “reformed police” has earned a bad name to Imran Khan.

Fingers are being pointed at his credibility, the main factor of his party’s getting majority in the province in

the last general elections. One can easily recall the attractive sloganeering of PTI at the time of 2013 general elections about good governance, speedy justice, people’s rights, education, democracy in political parties, improved social as well as economic system, institutional reforms and elimination of corruption from government departments. Keeping all this in view, Imran Khan, in fact, has emerged as a “man of contradictions”.

It was Imran who during his sitin in Islamabad last year, had demanded of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to resign on the plea that free, fair and transparent investigation into his party’s election rigging charges could not be possible. He was also the strong believer that reelections would not serve the purpose before going for complete institutional reforms.

The arrest of respected ANP leader Mian Iftikhar Hussain in a murder case on the polling day and the way he was treated by the police was something which the opposition parties critically condemned. In fact, it was nothing but the rising popularity of ANP candidates in some dis-

tricts which forced the PTI to go berserk against its rival contesting forces in many constituencies.

Imran Khan and the KP government are ready to hold re-elections in the province. But who would guarantee that these re-elections would be free, fair and transparent in the presence of the government, which is facing the rigging charges.

Isn’t this the negation of what Imran has been demanding of the federal government during his Islamabad’s sit-in. Whether he could justify what he has been saying against the federal government on rigging issue.

Does his promise to conduct re-election hold ground when he himself was not ready to accept the federal government’s offer to probe his election rigging charges?

Morally the PTI has lost credibility after what has emerged out of the mismanaged local government elections. However, whether Imran’s PTI would regain its dwindling moral justification among its electorates to remain in power in the province is now million dollars question.

— The writer is freelance columnist.

View From Abroad

America’s foreign policy recovery Anne Applebaum

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EVERAL times lately — often enough for it to have become a distinct pattern — I’ve found myself part of a heated discussion, somewhere in Europe. Maybe it’s at a dinner or a conference; maybe the topic is Russia, Libya or the economic crisis in Greece. But at some point, someone looks up in wonder. “Isn’t it odd: We haven’t mentioned the United States once!” Yes, everyone agrees, it’s odd! And then the subject changes again.

Few here doubt that American influence in Europe is shrinking, along with American engagement in the world, though the explanations differ. Some date the decline quite precisely, to the Iraq war in 2003 and to the Bush administration that launched it. That was the moment when Europe divided over whether to support the United States; worse, those who did paid a high price afterward. Certainly Tony Blair never quite recovered from his decision to join the invasion, and Britain’s newly reluctant foreign policy is partly a product of the war, too.

Others blame the current administration, with equally good cause.

President Obama’s failure to defend his own “red line” in Syria and his admitted lack of strategy against the Islamic State have left many wondering whether he’s interested in the Middle East at all. The same problem exists with regard to Russia, where there is a strange split between NATO military leaders, who are publicly very blunt in their assessment of Russian manoeuvres over the Baltic Sea and Scandinavia, as well as in Ukraine, and the strangely sanguine White House.

While Gen. Philip M. Breedlove, the Supreme Allied Commander for Europe, warns of “revanchist Russia,” Obama lightly dismisses Russia as a weak “regional power” that poses no larger threats.

Nature abhors a vacuum — and for the dozen-odd people seeking to become the next US president, American drift and indecision look like easy targets. Certainly Republicans have identified foreign policy as a winning issue. While in Germany this week, Jeb Bush described Russian President Vladi-mir Putin as “a ruthless pragmatist who will push until someone pushes back” and called for a renewal of the Western alliance. Marco Rubio has also demanded renewed “American strength” and greater global leadership. It’s probably only a matter of time before Hillary Clinton finds a way

to delicately separate Obama’s first term from his second, the better to attack the latter as well.

Which is all very well, except that no “statement of resolve,” however fierce, is going to fix the problem. It’s easy enough to sound tougher, but the real task for the next president is not merely rhetorical. If he or she truly wants the United States to lead the West again, any future president — or indeed the current one, since he’s got more than a year left to go — needs to launch a radical reform of the alliance itself, as well as the institutions of the alliance, to address the legacies of both Bush and Obama. This isn’t 1979, and a revival of Reaganism isn’t going to work: America’s allies are as wary of American belligerence as they are of American indecision.

NATO is the obvious place to make a new start. The alliance needs a streamlined decision-making process, as well as a stronger commitment to the threatened states in the East — but the challenges facing the West aren’t just military. We also need new institutions to fight new kinds of threats. During the next decade, the United States should lead a broader conversation about the vast and growing challenges from foreign computer espionage, which is entering new levels of sophistication, as well as ped-

dlers of disinformation from Russia, China and elsewhere who have become far more adept at influencing our own political debates, and in sowing chaos. Equally, America needs allies in the Western struggle against international corruption that is undermining the political independence of many weaker Western states. The Justice Department’s dismembering of FIFA made an interesting case study: Why not apply the same energy and thoroughness to the money-laundering operations that have enriched so many oligarchs all over the world — as well as their Western partners?

I can see that this is a problem for your average candidate: reforming and reinforcing NATO, building new institutions to fight transnational corruption and cyber threats — none of these things sounds as good on the campaign trail as “Let’s make America great again.” But if the next president is serious about making the United States a plausible leader again, then America needs to launch some new projects with its old friends, reinvigorating the Western alliance for a new era in reality. Rhetoric alone won’t do it. The writer is Director of the Global Transitions Programme at the Legatum Institute in London.

— The Washington Post

He’s not dead..!

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HE body of the man who was dead lay in the house, it wasn’t a pleasant sight. He had been dead for more than five hours and I knew it was just a matter of time in the intense heat that the room would start to stink. “Why don’t you just get on with it and cremate him? I asked. “We can’t!” said all the people in the room.

“Why not?” I asked. It was the body of an old man, nearly ninety years old, and I was sure everybody

knew had died of nothing else than old age. I mean he didn’t look like the type who had been involved in a sword fight or a duel, nor did the corpse look like it had been part of a gang shooting, “Why not?” I asked again. “Because we can’t get a death certificate!”

“Why?” I asked. “Because there is no doctor available in our town as they have all gone for the doctor’s convention in the city!” “Which,” I completed, “Is six hours away! And without the death certificate the crematorium will not allow you to cremate the body?” “Yes,” admitted, someone in the room holding his nose as the beginnings of the stench reached him.

“Which also means,” I said, “That technically he is not dead!” The people

in the room looked at me incredulously, then got up joyously and danced around the body, “He’s alive!” they shouted, “He’s alive!”

The lifeless eyes of the dead corpse looked at them glassy eyed. The above scene is a figment of my imagination but something similar to this happens all the time in our country.

Last week a deputy registrar of societies did a similar goof up in the city of Mumbai. According the law, if a member of the managing committee had not sign a bond called the M 20 bond, he was automatically disqualified within two weeks.

Maybe the word ‘automatic’ should be defined a little better in the books of law or maybe the gentleman

hadn’t heard the word before. “Did you minute the fact that this man hadn’t signed the indemnity bond?” he asked the chairman.

“Sir, the law says that he automatically becomes disqualified!

Which means whether I minute it or not, whether it was recorded or not, if we find out today that the bond was not signed, he is technically disqualified. Sir, there is no need to physically write or not write, the word in the law books, is ‘automatic’!” It was no use, he was a deputy registrar, yet like the men in the crematorium, he needed a death certificate to prove the stinking corpse was dead..!

—Email: bobsbanter@gmail.com

Voice of the People Viable transport system RANA HASSAN

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indly allow me to draw the attention of concerned authorities through the columns of your es teemed newspaper to poor transport system of Karachi city. Public transport is indeed a life line in the city. Those who cannot afford to buy vehicle is usually travel by public transport to stay connected to their jobs, schools, families and many more. However public transport system is very poor in the Karachi city. During the rush hours we usually see a chaotic situation. People travel thorough buses hanging or sitting on the roof of buses. This is very perilous for them. There is increasing number of women who are going for education, after long hours of waiting they don’t get a single bus and if there is a bus either it is full of passengers or it has no compartment for women. Another thing is that during the rush hours usually at the time of morning when every person is going for work the road will block, and everybody will stuck in the traffic. So the thing is that we have to manage the time. In this regards I prefer the following measures. The time should not conflict when the children go to school or when they come back. The banks opening time or closing time should be extended. Heavy duty vehicle should only make their movement at the time of midnight when there is no public transport on the road. As far as women are concerned the government should initiate exclusive bus service for women. There should be enough buses or public transport so that the people can travel safe and sound. By doing this we actually reduce the overlapping of transport.

Keeping the above in view, I hope that the concerned authorities will initiate expeditious steps to ensure a good public transport in our city.

—Via email

Normalising must be reciprocal HAMZA ALI One agrees with the “Mutually destructive rhetoric” argument, but some of the observations I would like to differ. First, Pakistan did not lose its moral argument much earlier than the Indian intervention as their intervention started in East Pakistan before 1968, refer to the Agartala Conspiracy which was confessed to be true by Deputy Speaker of Bangladesh Parliament Mr Shawkat Ali (part of the conspiracy) in the Parliament on the eve of 44th anniversary of the withdrawal of the case.

Second, RAW will not send its agents to operate in Pakistan; it may locals to work for them so it is very logical that only Pakistanis will be apprehended as perpetrators of a ghastly crime.

Besides, after the statement given by the Indian Defence Minister, do we really require further proofs? Third, you cannot clap with one hand; Pakistan cannot evolve an ‘India policy’ – which is supposed to be rational, positive and in the best interest of the people – if the other side is not willing to do it.

Despite Pakistan’s sincere efforts aimed at normalizing the relations with India, we were reciprocated only with frequent unprovoked artillery shelling, which has so far killed a number of innocent civilians. The terrorists are trained by RAW to create unrest in the country. It is therefore not logical to put the onus of normalizing relations with India on Pakistan alone.

— Via email

Islam institutional scrimmage RABIA KHAN Pakistan’s second largest university, and known for producing acclaimed scholars, the Karachi University has become a hub of criminal activities.

Political parties use students to settle personal vendettas.

The politicisation of the University is causing stress to students who are serious about studies. Even the heavy contingent of Rangers, deployed in the University, has been unable to manage the rogue elements. Innocent lives are lost due to clashes among rival political student groups. Who is to be blamed for this situation? A country where academic institutions are not safe and are turned into battlegrounds, where else could one look for serenity and harmony?

—Karachi

Inequitable taxes on data services NAVEED AHMAD KHAN The mobile phone customers of Pakistan’s biggest Province, Punjab will pay the highest tax on data services in the world which was imposed recently by the Provincial government. The tax on data services were unique and rare in the world which was levied only in Bhutan at the rate of only 5 percent in contrast with the 19.5 percent heavy taxes imposed by the Punjab’s government through SRO — a few days ahead of the announcement of Provincial budget.

Initially, the taxes were imposed in Punjab but the taxes on data services are likely to be replicate by the Sindh government which has already slapped taxes on internet services of above Rs 1,500 in the budget of previous financial year 2014-15.

The imposition of the tax rates caused uproar throughout the IT industry and mobile broadband users which have been already bracing huge taxes on telecom sector including discriminatory GST of 19.5 percent, 14 percent withholding taxes, and now another tax on

data services. It is worth mentioning here that Pakistan ranks 4th among the world with high taxes on telecom services as per GSMA report. Throughout the world, the data services have been exempted from the taxes because of its unparallel benefits to masses and its ripple effects on social developments and economic growth. Recently, the bloggers community and digital media publishers have joined hand to lodge their overwhelming protest with the Provincial government through blackout of their screens.

The movement aims at harnessing support of masses to push the Punjab government withdrawing the new tax which is likely to cost losses of billion to the national economy against the short-term gain of tax on data services. Amir Atta, leading telecom analyst, said taxes on data services may slow down the usage of mobile broadband among the customers who are already paying heavy taxes on telecom sector and multiple taxes on every goods and services.

He said the investment plans of the cellular phone companies to rollout 3G/4G/LTE infrastructure might hurt from now onwards which will slow down the development process in the country, leaving Pakistan far behind from different developing countries in the world on technological front. He demand the country should review its decision to tax data services and withdraw the SRO of anti-public tax in the upcoming Provincial budget for financial year 2015-16.

The government could make revenues from reducing the burden of taxes on telecom users as it will improve the utility of the services and generate tax income for the Provincial kitty. In this regard, the Provincial government should hold consultation with stakeholders of IT industry and telecom sector to expand services of Next Generation Technologies at faster pace throughout the Province.

—Via email

Time for PM’s Zarb-e-Azb..!

SYED NAYYARUDDIN AHMAD I take this opportunity to invite your kind attention towards the press release issued by the PCB (published in the national news papers of 13 June, 2015) on the findings of the World Cup-2015 debacle Review Committee (RC) of the PCB, which consisted of (80%) or four PCB’s own personnel (M/s Shahryar Khan, Najam Sethi, Subhan Ahmad & Iqbal Qasim) and only (20%) or one external member, Mr. Wasim Bari.

According to the above mentioned press release of the PCB, the RC found the following 5 reasons of the Pakistan’s downfall at this years World Cup: (1) Poor fielding (2). Low fitness (3) Inconsistent selection (4) Lack of positive approach. (5). Dearth of strategic thinking Furthermore, the following were held responsible for the Pakistan’s poor performance: (1) Players (2) Coaches. (3) Selectors.

Mr. Prime Minister, Sir, there is no need to remind you that leaving aside the World Cup debacle, our nation was even more badly humiliated by the pathetic performance of our cricket team, during the recently concluded tour of the Bangladesh, which clearly proved that the people at the helm of the affairs of the PCB, were either absolutely nincompoop; or they were not ready to learn any lessons, from the World Cup debacle.

Now, a stage has come where the PCB has virtually turned into a torture giving and insult inflicting organisation, for the cricket loving masses of Pakistan; who can only vent their anger, by not calling your government, with good names. We can digest defeats in sports field, but can never forgive and forget those responsible for bringing heaps of shame and humiliation, to the name and prestige of Pakistan.

Now, since the own Review Committee of the PCB has held re-

sponsible “those running affairs of the board” and after this verdict, against their own-selves, the PCB top notches have not yet resigned, it is time for striking your Zarb-eAzb, on the whole rotting edifice of the PCB. You are requested to immediately dissolve the Board of Governors of the PCB; and please Mr. PM, this time, set an example of not appointing as head of the adhoc PCB board, from amongst your relatives or friends. Rather, the new head of the PCB may be a visionary person, who is ready to accept the challenge of turning (in one year) the PCB into a world class organisation.

This goal can be easily achieved by splitting the cricket board in two units of Administrative Affairs & Cricketing Affairs, headed by persons with the designations of Director General, who are known for their competence, integrity and honesty. The new head of the PCB must only be appointed, when you are personally satisfied about his capabilities, after his one on one, interview with you. The DG Cricketing Affairs must also be a legendary competent Pakistani cricketer.

Wishing you all the success in your endeavours to make Pakistan, the best of the best in the world.

—Lahore

CPEC and its enemies HASSAM MEHSUD China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is dreamed to be a revolutionary project in the history of Pakistan as it is said that if it is developed into a full-fledge port, the fright charges (boarding charges) of the ships passing through this route could provide billion of rupees to our treasury. Pakistan is enjoying a rare important geo-strategic position and the only thing to do is to make use of it. Chinese President’s historical visit and MOUs signed were and are momentous for their economic gains. Now as we have a wicked and devilish enemy just on our border, India, who by her prejudiced and notorious designs wants to demolish this project and herself become the all time economic power of the region.

India is now disturbing the security situation inside Pakistan and spending billions of rupees to harm us in any way, anytime and anywhere. Now it is a time for us, especially for our democratic government and military establishment, to take strict measures and fight our case on international level with strong zeal and energy to show the real black face of India to the world.

Moreover, we have to adopt a policy of equal terms with India and leave our apologetic and compromising policy as Hindus are by nature coward, wicked and dirty.

We should never turn our love for peace as our weakness and adopt a policy of honour and respect as the age and period had already gone when there have been battles of horses, arrows and armours.

India is aware of our power and of the fact that in no time we can whip India out of the world map.

CPEC is an excellent project for our future and it should be completed as soon as possible to convert it into an economic hub and money making machine for the future generations of Pakistan. Long live my dear country.

—Via email

DISCLAIMER THE articles, columns and letters are published on these pages in good faith. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.

—Editor Email:editorial@pakobserver.net

Erdogan to ask AKP to form Turkey coalition ISTANBUL—President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday said he would ask Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) to form a coalition government, after it lost its overall majority in legislative elections.

Should the AKP fail in the talks, Erdogan said he would then ask the second-placed opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) to form the government.

And only if those talks failed, Erdogan said, would he use his right within the constitution to call early elections. “It is unthinkable that the country is left without a government,” Erdogan told Turkish media aboard his presidential plane while returning from a trip to Azerbaijan.

“I will first give the mandate (for talks) to the head of the political party that won the most votes,” he said, referring to Prime Minister and AKP leader Ahmet Davutoglu. “If it (a coalition) cannot be established, I will then give the mandate to the head of the party that finished second,” he said, referring to CHP chief Kemal Kilicdaroglu.

Erdogan said snap elections would then follow if these talks failed, but said he preferred to term them “repeat elections”

rather than “early elections”.

He said that next week he would be inviting the leaders of all four parties who won seats in parliament for talks. The AKP, cofounded by Erdogan, lost its overall majority in the June 7 polls for the first time since it came to power in 2002.

The party won the most votes but the result was a huge blow for Erdogan himself, who had wanted to change Turkey’s constitution into a presidential system.

To the amusement of critics, the normally loquacious Erdogan made no public comments for almost four days after the poll. But Erdogan, premier from 20032014, insisted that his authority remained intact, referring to his victory in 2014 presidential elections with almost 52 percent of the vote.

“I don’t find discussions of presidential authority correct when the president has been elected with 52 percent of the vote,” he said. “I find this disrespectful to the national will. The president has been personally given this task by the nation.”

Erdogan gave no indication, however, of what his preferred combination for an AKP-led coalition would be.—AFP

Former Chinese top legislator Qiao dies BEIJING—Qiao Shi, former Qiao, 91, was extolled in the chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, died in Beijing at 7:08 am on Sunday, according to a statement from the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

statement as an excellent Party member, a time-tested and loyal communist soldier, and an outstanding proletarian revolutionist, stateman and leader of the Party and the state.—Xinhua

ICC calls to arrest indicted Sudanese President THE HAGUE—The International Criminal Court (ICC) called on authorities in South Africa to arrest Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, who was due in the country on Sunday to attend an African summit meeting.

Bashir is accused in an ICC warrant of war crimes and crimes against humanity over atrocities

in the Darfur conflict.

A statement issued by the court in The Hague asked Pretoria “to spare no effort in ensuring the execution of the arrest warrants.”

It said the court’s members had “deep concern about the negative consequences if a member state failed to assist in detaining Bashir, who was indicted more than a decade ago.—AA

President Bashir is accused in an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant of war crimes and crimes against humanity over atrocities in the Darfur conflict.

Israeli army continues killing of Palestinians

LI ZIGUO

C

ENTRAL Asian countries have shown a high-level interest in China’s initia tive of reviving the ancient Silk Road since the plan was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to Kazakhstan in September 2013.

As an indispensable link between China and the western end of the Eurasian continent on the map of the Silk Road in history, the Central Asian region today is expected to share the benefits of the region’s economic development by participating in the China-proposed Silk Road Economic Belt Initiative.

Beginning moves: In history, many ancient cities in the Central Asian region—such as Samarkand, Bukhara and Alma-Ata—thrived due to their respective locations along the old Silk Road route. In a sense, China and Central Asian countries share the same sentiment toward the Silk Road.

For this historical reason, governments of Central Asian countries welcome the Chinese initiative to revive the ancient route. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of Kazakhstan, applauded the initiative when it was first raised by visiting Chinese President Xi in 2013. As a follow-up effort, Kazakhstan and China signed a memorandum of understanding on this initiative in December 2014.

Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev said in September 2013 that his country would support the initiative and be willing to expand cooperation with China on trade, energy, connectivity, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

In August 2014, Uzbek President Karimov said that his country would like to participate in building the proposed Silk Road Economic Belt and join the China-proposed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), as well as

IVAN SUKHOVJUN

A

Israeli soldiers detain a Palestinian protester during clashes following a protest against Jewish settlements, in Jalazoun refugee camp, near the West Bank city of Ramallah.

J ERUSALEM —An Israeli army jeep struck and killed a Palestinian in the occupied West Bank on Sunday, with the military and locals giving conflicting accounts of the circumstances.

A military spokeswoman said the jeep, which was in Qafr Malik village as part of an operation to arrest Palestinians, accidentally hit the Palestinian after he threw a petrol bomb at it.

“The driver was startled and swerved, hitting the man,” she said, adding that a military investigation would be launched.

Guizhou residential building collapses, 3 missing

Local resident Nail Abdul Latah el Hajj denied the Palestinian had attacked the jeep, however, saying the man was walking to work at a chicken farm when he was run down on the main street and then crushed as the vehicle crashed into a wall and overturned.

Speaking to Reuters, el Hajj said the man’s death sparked confrontations between stone-throwing Palestinian youths and Israeli troops.

The military spokeswoman said the disturbances were already under way when the collision happened.

The video posted on social media showed the Palestinian being hit with a rifle butt and wrestled to the ground, where he was punched further and a soldier’s knee was pressed against his head.

He was then handcuffed and taken away. “If necessary, disciplinary action will be taken against (the soldiers).

Based on preliminary investigation, it appears that the conduct displayed in the incident is inconsistent with that expected of IDF (Israel Defence Forces) soldiers,” the military said in a statement.—Reuters

Bangladesh’s Rohingya relocation plan raises concerns

DHAKA—Bangladesh said it was looking to move chair after inviting him to your home”.

Low-lying Thengar Char, around 30 kilometres G U I YA N G —Three people the around 32,000 registered refugees, in part beare missing after a residential building collapsed in Zunyi, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, early Sunday morning, local authorities confirmed.

The old, nine-storey building on Yan’an Road in the city’s Honghuagang District collapsed at 5:58 a.m..

According to the local publicity department, 19 residents from the building were affected by the collapse. Sixteen of them are safe, while the other three remain missing.

Two were slightly injured and sent to the hospital. Rescue work is underway. The cause of the accident is under investigation.—Xinhua

cause they were hampering tourism in the coastal resort district — home to the world’s longest unbroken beach. The proposal has been met with alarm from leaders of the Rohingya, who began arriving more than two decades ago after fleeing persecution in Myanmar, and whose desperate search for a secure homeland has recently been thrown into the spotlight by a regional smuggling crisis.

The UN refugee agency, which has been helping them since 1992, said a move would be “logistically challenging” — an assessment confirmed by a recent visit to the area by AFP. Police on the neighbouring island of Hatiya prevented the boat AFP was travelling on from going to Thengar Char, saying they could not guarantee its safety. But accounts from local people and a forest department official who oversaw the 2011 planting of mangroves on Thengar Char gave an indication of the challenges. “At high tide the entire island is under three to four feet (about a metre) of water,” said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It is impossible to live there,” he said, comparing the plan to “compelling a guest to sit on a spiked

(18 miles) east of Hatiya island, only emerged from the sea around eight years ago and does not appear on Google Maps. The 10,000-acre island is administered from Hatiya, which has a population of 600,000, but local boat operators told AFP they rarely went there.

Such a journey would in any case be impossible during the monsoon months of June to September, when the seas are perilous — and the island would be completely cut off.

The island, around two hours away from the mainland by speedboat, is in an area frequently hit by cyclones, which have killed thousands in Hatiya and Bangladesh’s southern coast in the past.

Hatiya’s top government official A.H.M. Moyeenuddin said the island had been chosen by a team of government surveyors dispatched to the area on the orders of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He admitted that relocating thousands to the island would be challenging, but said the construction of cyclone shelters, a barrage and a hospital would be enough to “make the place liveable”.—AFP

A Serendipitous Project Fate has conspired to place China and Central Asia together to achieve common goals.

Putin’s Russia Is Not ‘Back in the U.S.S.R.’

accelerate the construction of a railway linking Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and China.

In 2014, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan respectively signed a declaration with China, in which they expressed their interest in and commitment to the initiative.

Except Turkmenistan, other four Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan—have joined the AIIB. In particular, the first two were among the first 21 countries that signed a memorandum of understanding on the establishment of the AIIB in Beijing last October.

Early participation has yielded great results. In May 2014, a logistics center sponsored by China and Kazakhstan was put into operation in the port of Lianyungang of east China’s Jiangsu Province, through which products from Central Asia can be more effectively shipped to the rest of the world.

China and Kazakhstan will, in the future, develop a logistics center serving all members in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

Common interests: Why do Central Asian countries lend such strong support to China’s proposal to revive the ancient route? A key point is that it conforms to their respective strategic interests. The Central Asian region’s geographic location makes it possible to link two large economic circles—Europe and the Asia Pacific—together.

Central Asian countries have all aspired to take advantage of their location to be an important transportation hub linking the east end of the continent to the west end.

In his State of the Union Address this year, Kazakhstan’s President Nazarbayev put forward the Bright Road, a national development blueprint that gives priority to building the country into a transit passage for international goods. In May 2014, Nazarbayev said that it is necessary to build a new railway route from Aktau, a Caspian Sea port of the country, to China.

The government of Tajikistan stressed in its national development strategy that the coun-

try must build a transportation network connecting all directions internally and externally.

In December 2014, Uzbek President Karimov, when summarizing the nation’s economic development, said that the country’s economic modernization won’t be achieved if it fails to improve its infrastructure nationwide—especially those that involve public information and transportation. Consequently, in March, Uzbekistan issued a transportation development plan for 2015-19.

In a plan that began in 2013 and will stretch to 2017, Kyrgyzstan has prioritized transportation, power and mining development.

A Turkmenistan-sponsored resolution on the role of transport and transit corridors in ensuring international cooperation for sustainable development was adopted at the 69th session of the UN General Assembly on December 19, 2014.

Clearly, Central Asian countries are in urgent need of building connectivity to boost development nationally.

The China-proposed Belt Initiative is in line with the industrial development demand for Central Asian countries. They share a lot in common with regards to their national situations: They are all developing countries with the same goal of developing industries to create job opportunities and improve people’s lives. Employment pressure in those countries is particularly heavy among younger generations.

In its development blueprint Kazakhstan2050, the country plans to double the export of processed products by 2025. It has also issued a series of policies to support this round of industrialization.

In March, Uzbekistan released a five-year plan for boosting local production through attracting foreign investment. Three other Central Asian countries also announced their respective plans for promoting industrialization.

Diversifying energy exports is a long-term national strategy for Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, which are abundant in energy resources. Efforts are on the way such as the construction of the natural gas Line-D from

Central Asia to China and the extension of an oil pipeline from Kazakhstan to China. These projects will secure Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan’s positions in China—the largest future energy market in the world.

A core mission in the Belt Initiative involves developing transportation connectivity, improving conditions for more convenient logistics, accelerating industrial cooperation and establishing industrial zones according to the demands of countries along the belt—all of which conveniently match the goals of Central Asian countries. Moreover, China can meet these countries’ demands by establishing industrial projects and offering investment funds.

Risks ahead: Currently, many Chinese enterprises have picked up the pace in their efforts to go abroad, particularly to Central Asian countries.

However, risk assessments must be carried out prior to the construction of any large project.

The security situation in the Central Asian region has been affected by extremism and terrorism, which will pose threats to major aspects of the Belt Initiative—for instance, transnational natural gas lines.

Infrastructure construction—like that of roads—always needs a lot of investment while the return period is a long. The question of how to ensure those projects to bring benefits to both investors and local people will remain a major focus throughout the process.

Enterprises must consider effects on local citizens whenever they invest abroad. But many Chinese enterprises lack such awareness and experience. Many of them tend to concentrate on negotiation with governments while ignoring the appeals of local residents.

For example, local residents clashed with Chinese investors on a gold mine project in Kyrgyzstan, which had damaged the reputation of Chinese investors. The event serves as a warning for Chinese enterprises.

—Courtesy: Beijing Review [The author is deputy director of EuropeanCentral Asian Studies under the China Institute of International Studies.]

group of Russian scholars presented a report in Moscow in late May called “The values of perestroika in the con text of modern Russia” that detailed the risks the country is currently facing. The authors argue that leaders must inevitably restart the reforms first begun by former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in 1985 — that is, unless they plan to continue pushing Russia toward the backward and unstable periphery of the modern world.

That allusion to perestroika immediately raises some uncomfortable questions. Is the current rise of authoritarianism and the breakdown of basic institutions the logical consequence of Gorbachev’s reforms, or is it some strange evolutionary offshoot, a careless wrong turn down a historical blind alley?

Also, how likely is it that the current regime will recognize the need for reforms? Will a new “Gorbachev” emerge from President Vladimir Putin’s “politburo,” and if so, will he manage to overcome the inertia of his political milieu?

Or will the chance for change come only after the collapse of the current regime? If so, it will prove only illusory due to the almost inevitable political chaos that will result, the emergence of newly emboldened radicals of every stripe and the centrifugal forces that will tend to tear the system apart.

Many in Russia and elsewhere believe that the lyrics to the popular Beatles song “Back in the U.S.S.R.” best describe the country’s current trajectory. They are mistaken.

Today’s Russia bears only a superficial resemblance to the Soviet Union, as anyone with memories of that era can readily testify. The Soviet Union was characterized by cynicism and doublethink. Its history was marred by repression against its own citizens on a monstrous scale, and its political life bore absolutely no connection to Western notions of democracy, the separation of powers and human rights. At the same time, the Soviet Union was conceived as a humanistic project. Its system — although burdened by the political monopoly of the Communists and the oversized military-industrial complex — was largely focused on developing what is now called “human capital.”

Soviet leaders discussed the use of nuclear weapons exclusively as a means of retaliation, and only archival newspaper stories and newsreels of Stalin’s terror reflected the level of vitriol that has become standard fare in Russian television over last year and a half or two. As naive as it might sound, right up until it ended the Soviet Union remained part of an idealistic global effort to make the world a better place for everyone. The United States and China continue to promote their respective versions of that project, but without the Soviet Union the world has become significantly less stable, and there is far less hope now than there was in the late 1980s that mankind would ultimately achieve a bright and prosperous future.

Despite the rhetorical gymnastics of leaders who publicly wax nostalgic for the Soviet Union, modern Russia is far from considering itself part of a global humanistic project. A huge billboard that appeared in Moscow in May best conveys the political thinking of the current regime. It quotes Pyotr Stolypin, prime minister to Tsar Nicholas II: “They are in need of great upheavals, while we are in need of Great Russia.”

The left side, where the word “upheavals” appears, shows photos of the Maidan protests in 2014, with agitated faces and upraised hands grasping firearms. On the right, next to the words “Great Russia,” is a photo of the honor guard marching at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier near the Kremlin.

“Great Russia” is depicted as a Kremlin regiment marching in blindingly high-polished boots before the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is not new roads and factories, evidences of development or symbols of freedom and social justice. Thus, Russia has inherited only one thing from the Soviet Union — the love its leader holds for the pomp of military ceremony.

Modern Russia is not positioning itself as a welfare state: The government now sees it as a burden to feed millions of people directly dependent on the state. Modern Russia is ostensibly trying to invest in development, but its space program is crumbling with every failed rocket launch, and lawmakers are scaring away potential investors with ill-conceived laws.

Modern Russia is definitely not the free and prosperous country that dissidents dreamed it would become when the Soviet regime collapsed in 1991 — but, beyond a doubt, it is also not the Soviet Union.

The contours of the social and political system now unfolding before our eyes are far harsher, the political taboos preventing society from degenerating into primitive obscurantism far fewer and the barriers separating the country from the rest of the world far higher.

—Courtesy: MT [Ivan Sukhov is a journalist who has covered conflicts in Russia and the CIS for the past 15 years]

ISIS’s Middle East Christian-cleansing GEORGE MARLIN

H

ERE we go again. ISIS’s butchers this week kidnapped 88 Eritrean Christians in Libya. Pray for them. Last month, the jihadists captured Ethiopian Christians and executed them. In February, it beheaded 21 Egyptian Copts.

Before the horrific news of ISIS’s rise and its medieval barbarism splashed across Western TV screens and newspapers, many Americans probably had no idea that Christians today make up a good chunk of the Middle East’s population.

Yet, it’s a profound, and tragic, mistake to equate the Arab world exclusively with Muslims. Centuries before Islam appeared, the Mideast was the historic heartland of Christianity — its birthplace, and the place where its foundational theology and worship were first articulated. It served as the launching pad of Christianity’s evangelization of Europe and Africa. And it was the land sanctified by its first martyrs and saints.

That Christian presence is now at risk of disappearing — for good. The loss would be immeasurable. Since the Islamic conquest of the region in the seventh century, indigenous Christian communities have remained a vital part of the Arab world. Indeed, Christians were among the leading creators of that epic civilization. In many cities of the region, they retained sizable majorities well into the Middle Ages. Christian artists and masons, in addition to beautifying their own churches, were responsible for the design and ornamentation of many of Islam’s most iconic monuments — including its sacred Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.

Even when the Middle East became a provincial backwater after the Crusades, the region’s Christians, often troubled by religious violence, unjust taxation and discrimination, nevertheless continued to function as the area’s conduit to the wider world — through their roles in commerce and diplomacy.

‘Yet Middle Eastern Christianity is not simply a matter of ancient history. Hoping to end discrimination in modern times, Mideast Christians have struggled for change in the Arab world, supporting independence movements and democratic reform.

They’ve fought consistently to end second-class citizenship for themselves and other non-Muslim minorities. Alas, many of these efforts have run aground on the rocks of competing visions for the region — most recently, a toxic Islamic militancy that rejects the modern world and takes its cues from an illusory “Golden Age” of seventh-century expansionist Islam.

Like a plague on the land, ISIS is committed to merciless religious cleansing that may spell the end of Christianity from the very land of its birth — one Christian, one bishop, one priest at a time. The mass killings and kidnappings, like the one in Libya this week, get some attention. But when a sole Jesuit was kidnapped from eastern Syria the other day, the world simply yawned.

—Courtesy: TNI [George Marlin’s new book, “Christian Persecutions in the Middle East: A 21st Century Tragedy” is out this month]

India can escape its Kashmir From Page 1 plan to form his party’s government in the IHK and do away with Article 370 of the Indian Constitution which accorded a special status to the occupied territory.

First, he invited Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to his inauguration in the hope that the latter would refuse and give him a handle to present Pakistan as the villain of the peace. Nawaz pre-empted the move by attending the inauguration.

Then Modi muddied the waters by cancelling the proposed foreign secretaries level talks scheduled in August 2014 on the flimsy excuse that Pakistan’s High Commissioner in India Abdul Basit had met the Hurriyat leaders on the eve of these proposed talks.

This move was meant to send a strong signal to the voters in IHK that the tough-talking Modi meant business and India had had enough of Pakistani ‘intransigence’. He then heated up the Line-of-Control blaming Pakistan of violating its sanctity to send in infiltrators to influence the upcoming elections in the occupied valley.

All these under hand tactics had enabled his party to gain as many as 25 seats in the IHK elections but still at least three seats

10 dead as tigers From Page 1 Garibashvili called on Tbilisi residents to stay indoors while the animals were still on the loose, describing the damage to the city´s infrastructure as “substantial” after the River Vere burst its banks after hours of torrential rain.

“The number of people killed in the flood has grown to 10,” a spokesman at the State Security and Crisis Management Council told AFP. “Rescuers are among the dead. The number of missing people is being established. At least 36 people have been hospitalised, including 16 with multiple fractures.”

The floods turned the streets and squares into raging torrents, sweeping away cars and flooding houses in the ex-Soviet state. Tbilisi Zoo spokeswoman Mzia Sharashidze told the InterPressNews agency that three dead bodies had been found on the grounds of the zoo, including two employees.—AFP

short of majority. And incidentally all these 25 seats were from Hindu majority Jammu part of the occupied territory. It seems that the Hurriyat saved the day for itself by not calling for boycotting the polls. The voters’ turn-put was unusually heavy in the valley making it impossible for BJP to win even a single seat from here.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which had won 28 seats out of a total 87 of state assembly entered into coalition with the BJP on the condition that the state’s constitutional prerogative to continue to enjoy a special status would not be tinkered with and the Armed Forces Special Power Act 1958 would be gradually removed.

After having failed in his plot to capture the state assembly Modi tried rather blatantly to change the demography of the Valley by settling against the law of the land non-Kashmiris and non-Valley residents in the Valley. The plan was to increase the Hindu votes in the Valley so as to capture the state assembly in the next elections. But this was a very serious blunder on the part of Modi. Therefore, the backlash. Mass demonstrations are being held in the valley against the move

in which pro-Pakistan slogans are being raised and Pakistani flag is appearing with increasing frequency.

Indeed, because of his abrasive, thoughtless attempts at tinkering with the IHK status he seems to have converted Kashmir into a major domestic problem for India. And it is likely to remain a drain on its resources—financial, social, political as well as physical— for all times to come unless New Delhi seeks a solution based on mutually acceptable constitutional compromises between Lok Sabah and the IHK state assembly.

In this regard, New Delhi’s best bet today is in the four-point formula of former President of Pakistan, General (retd.)

Musharraf who presented it after having announced that if India agreed to this formula Pakistan was prepared to give up its claim on Kashmir.

The four-point formula: 1. Kashmir should have the same borders but people be allowed to move freely across the region, thus making the border irrelevant; 2. The region should have self-governance or autonomy but not independence; 3. Troops should be withdrawn from the region

in a phased manner; and 4.

A joint mechanism comprising representatives from India, Kashmir and Pakistan be set up to supervise the implementation of such a road-map for Kashmir.

The President of the PDP, the Party in power today in Srinagar said at the time that the formula was a feasible one. The then Chief Minister of IHK Omar Abdullah said the proposal deserved serious consideration of Indian government. The United Jihad Council’s Chairman, Syed Salahuddin, endorsed it on Feb 27, 2007 albeit as a ‘first step’. Mirwaiz said on March 20, 2007, “The Hurriyat Conference will soon strengthen its public contact programme to make people aware of the formula...” On May 2, 2014 the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh revealed: “General Musharraf and I had nearly reached an agreement, a non-territorial solution to all problems...”

For obvious reasons Pakistan is not likely to invite India to resume a dialogue on this formula. But it would be in India’s immediate self-interest to revive the formula and urgently start a debate on it with Islamabad and the Hurriyat.

FIA starts probe into missing From Page 1

by Emine Erdogan for flood stricken population.

Former prime minister, Yousaf Raza Gilani has admitted that an expensive necklace, donated by the Turkish first lady for the flood-hit people of Pakistan in 2010, is in his possession. Gilani said that he has close ties with the Erdogan family and Mrs Erdogan was like a sister to him.

“The necklace belongs to my sister and it is with me.”

The former PM said that after the necklace was donated by the Turkish first lady, he had planned a visit to a flood-relief camp in Sindh where a couple was getting married. Gilani said that he had intended to gift the necklace, whose market price was estimated at Rs

200,000, to the bride but to his surprise he was greeted by eight girls who were to be married that day.

The former PM then decided to keep the necklace with himself and instead gift Rs 200,000 each to the eight couples.

Gilani disputed NADRA’s claim that it had acquired the necklace in an open auction, saying the necklace is still in his possession.

On the other hand, former NADRA chairman Ali Arshad Hakeem told the media persons that NADRA had decided to purchase the necklace so it could be returned to Mrs Erdogan.

Referring to the mass wedding ceremony in a Sindh flood-relief camp, he said that photos from the

ceremony were also prepared so they could be sent to Mrs Erdogan to let her see how her gesture worked.

He said that both the necklace and the albums had been sent to the Prime Minister ’s House, ostensibly to be sent back to the Turkish first lady.

According to the report, Gilani disagreed, asking, “How did he arrange the amount and on whose orders? I did not order him and most probably the interior minister (Rehman Malik) also did not order him to do so.”

Stressing his close ties with the Erdogan family, the former prime minister said that his son Ali Haider ’s honeymoon had also been arranged by the Erdogan family in Istanbul.—INP

ISLAMABAD: Air Vice Marshal Arshad Malik, Chief Project Director JF-17 project Pakistan Air Force (second from left) with the PAF pilots and officials at Le Bourget Paris.

Interior Ministry suspends From Page 1 government instructions,” Kamran Cheema, a senior government official told media.

“We don’t know the reasons behind this order.

We were sent a three-line notification by the interior ministry saying that this office should be sealed and all the expatriate staff be sent back to their countries within 15 days,” Cheema said.

The government did not make any formal announcement but an official from the interior ministry said that the agency was involved in “anti-Pakistan activities”.

“Their activities were being monitored since a long time.

They were doing something which was against Pakistan’s interest,” said the official without giving his name because he was not authorised to speak to the media.The charity’s expat staff were forced to leave Pakistan after the accusations emerged. Save the Children has always denied it had any links with Afridi or the CIA. The US State Department expressed concern over the closure.

Targeting those funding terrorism From Page 1 rooting out terror-funding network which is key to sustainable peace in Karachi”. What giving it to a Committee “for enquiry” really means is to effectively shelve the issue. Maj Gen Bilal Akbar well knew when making his statement before the Apex Committee that many of its members were beneficiaries from the “loot”. Not surprising that a week later nothing had happened, not surprising that having given up on nothing happening, Bilal Akbar went public. This could not have been possible without clearance from his own bosses in the military hierarchy.

The problem with Karachi is nothing new, over the years the intelligence agencies have been giving periodical reports but in the “interest of democracy” the rulers both military and civil, have refrained from doing anything about it.

Musharraf and his successive Corps Commanders in Karachi well knew about the organized criminal activity, motivated by “political considerations” they became accessories to the crime by turning not only a blind eye but a benevolent one to this daylight robbery. Musharraf’s generals may not have given them patronage, but by not doing anything about it they condoned the crimes. Now that the Rangers, with increasing help — from the Sindh Police— have de-fanged the core militant elements of all three (on-off) political coalition partners in Sindh, the DG Rangers found it fit and high time to talk about it.

For the record, the present revelation is nothing new to Rangers. This was laid down in quite some detail in an extensive and comprehensive report by Maj Gen (later Lt Gen) Ijaz Chaudhry, DG Rangers in 2011, to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Iftikhar Chaudhry. On the directions of the Supreme Court

he followed it up on a periodic basis for some time. The Supreme Court initially supported the Rangers move but then inexplicably backed off, take your own guess why our activist (than) Chief Justice of Supreme Court suddenly lost interest in fixing Karachi? Maj Gen Rizwan Akhtar took over from Ijaz as DG Rangers when Ijaz took over Corps Commander in Karachi. While Kayani restrained them from going after the political criminals so as not to destabilize the Federal Government, the duo teamed up well together within the legal constraints they could operate in to restore a semblance of peace in the city. What they did and kept on doing was to collect a lot of information about the wrongdoing being blatantly done as well as build up a substantial field intelligence collecting capacity. The credit for re-organising Rangers Sindh into an effective urban-policing counter-terrorism force must go to Ijaz and Rizwan.

Unfortunately for this city (and the country) a three star who was to retire in less than a year, Sajjad Ghani, was sent in posthaste by Kayani to replace Ijaz only a few days before Kayani himself retired. Why this unnecessary change was done only Kayani can answer, and Kayani has a lot to answer for.

Because Sajjad Ghani had other priorities, mostly pertaining to making his future bright, Rizwan was able to independently maintain the momentum, but on a restricted basis.

For the record Lt Gen Ijaz Chaudhry as Corps Commander flatly refused to confirm an amazing land deal AXACT earlier got for themselves from DHA Karachi.

Despite immense pressure Ijaz stood his ground. To his credit as an outstanding and upright soldier when Gen Raheel Sharif took over as COAS and was apprised of AXACT’s doubtful credentials by Ijaz, who by this time was in GHQ,

he gave strict instructions to ISI and MI not to give security clearance to BOL TV. With Rizwan promoted and becoming DG ISI, his replacement was thankfully another upright professional soldier, Maj Gen Bilal Akbar.

Recognising the dire need to restore the good name and credibility of the Army in Sindh COAS Gen Raheel Sharif chose an excellent and upright soldier as Corp Commander to replace Sajjad Ghani.

With the backing of a committed COAS and the Federal Government’s reluctant acceptance that terrorism could only be fought on the Army’s terms, the new team of Naveed Mukhtar and Bilal Akbar has combined well to take the fight across the board to the terrorists instead of simply venting their frustrations grumbling behind closed doors.

A few weeks back Lt Gen Naveed Mukhtar set off a furore in a presentation about the inefficiency and corruption of the Sindh Government in front of the PM in a meeting consisting of all the high-ups of PPP, people held their breath expecting action. To their surprise a few days later the Corp Comd then made a wellpublicised courtesy call on the Governor and the CM. What happened? It seemed that because the Federal Government needed the goodwill of the PPP, Mian Nawaz Sharif was quite unhappy that Naveed Mukhtar’s candour had upset Zardari. After Zulfiqar Mirza’s revelations about extended crime on Primetime TV and Zardari’s failure to legally sue him for libel, what is left to the imagination?

The Army’s High Command well realizes that the operation to restore peace to Karachi will fail until action against the corruption and sustained maladministration in Karachi – and Sindh – is focussed upon directly without political restraints. Fed up with the state of affairs, the

question is, has the Army finally got its act together or will we have further vacillation because Nawaz Sharif feels threatened politically? The present military hierarchy has to move on two fronts, target the corrupt whoever it may be to ensure terror funding is eliminated, at the same time take action to cleanse itself of the shenanigans of a few corrupt officers.

The present military hierarchy has to move on two fronts, target the corrupt whoever it may be to ensure terror funding is eliminated; at the same time take action to cleanse itself of the shenanigans of the few corrupt officers who have become rich beyond imagination in the shortest possible time without doing any business or receiving it in “inheritance”. As Zardari often stated in private to friends and foes alike, it took him two years into his Presidency to bring the one who mattered on line.

Clearly defining the means and methods of corruption, the DG Rangers clearly indicated that he well knew who the corrupt were. As you must have found out by now by the reaction in the media talk is cheap, Bilal. If you really are the soldier one takes you for, stop wasting your time talking to Apex Committee in which most of the corrupt sit and arrest the criminals, whoever they are. And by the way, Bilal why did you fail to mention the enormous amounts generated by the Reti (sand) mafia, was it because a retired three star general (and aspirant for Governorship of Sindh) is (or was) involved in the lifting of sand from the Malir River? If you really want to go after the crooks you cannot distinguish between civilians and those who wore the uniform or are still wearing them. Accountability must be even-handed and to be credible, across the board. Do you really expect the crooks to blow

a police whistle on themselves? And let us not confine ourselves to Sindh about terrorism and the funds that generate their activity.

What about the Punjab?

The same is true for Lt Gen Naveed Zaman in Lahore.

Unless we target the militants in South Punjab currently being given protection by close associates of the rulers, nothing much will happen countering terrorism except more tea and more rhetoric at Apex Committee meetings.

One was rather shocked

by Senator Aitzaz Ahsan’s reaction, instead of supporting accountability particularly that which targets the funding of terrorists and criminals his stance was basically that condoning crime and by default terrorism was correct as long as it took place under the garb of democracy. For the record he should make a lot of money in the future defending those from criminals masquerading as democrats. For the sake of the country the charade of hypocrisy must stop and the corrupt must be targeted without further delay in the unique window of opportunity that we have. Taking action against the big fish is the only way to break the nexus between corruption, organized crime and terrorism!

Business resumed From Page 1 ers, shop keepers, trader community and industrialists to restore activities at 1 p.m. after recording the protest.MQM has termed the budget as ‘unfriendly to Sindh’ and called for provincewide call for shutter down including Hyderabad, Nawabshah, Tandu Adam, Mirpur Khas and various other cities.

The MQM leader Altaf Hussain thanked people who joined peaceful strike to record protest against Sindh Budget. —INP

18 migrants found dead From Page 1 the head of IOM in Niger, said in emailed comments.

“We have to ask ourselves how many people have died (are dying) in the desert even before making it to the Mediterranean.

We don’t think this is an isolated case but without a systematic collection of information or without a ‘rescue’ operation we will never know how many migrants could be possibly missing.”

The flow of migrants in the Mediterranean is documented by multiple parties, from coast guards and navies to local authorities and aid

organizations. The IOM has said increasing numbers of west Africans have taken the trip this year, although the most common nationalities are still Syrians and Eritreans.

Loprete said patrolling the desert to try to prevent such deaths was “nearly impossible”. The 17 men and one woman found dead were from at least eight countries including Mali, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Guinea. They were traveling in a land cruiser but lost their way in a sandstorm before running out of fuel and getting stuck in the sand.

One, an Algerian, cap-

tured a camel and tried to get to the town of Assamaka, which is close to Niger’s border with Algeria, to get water and help. But he fell off and died. The others died of dehydration on about June 3 and were found 8 days later, IOM said, citing its staff in Niger and local authorities.

The group had been on the way from Arlit to Assamaka. If they had wanted to reach Tripoli, the capital of Libya, they would still have faced a journey of 2,340 km (1,500 miles) by the shortest road route.— Reuters

Modi loses nerves From Page 1 On Modi’s statement, Saeed said “His statement also confirms India’s terrorist motives. The Indian politicians have lost their nerves.

The extremist Indians, in the garb of so-called secularism, are actually so narrowminded that they would play dirty games only to secure their extremist interests and ideology at the cost of destabilising Pakistan.”

He said India is trying to imitate the US and pushing this entire region to terrorism.

“India has launched military strikes in Myanmar after taking inspiration from the US drone strikes. But this kind of ‘imitation’ or ‘copycat’ attitude would only backfire.

India needs to be cut down to its size.”

Hafiz Saeed said the JuD

would soon launch a countrywide campaign against India’s terrorism. “Keeping mum on the Indian terrorist policies would tantamount to suicide.”

He further said that JuD is forming a Nazria Pakistan Council, comprising of different political and religious parties. For this purpose, a five-member committee led

by Deputy JuD Chief Abdul Rehman Makki has been formed, Saeed added.

Maulana Ameer Hamza, Maulana Saifullah Khalid, Qari Yaqoob Shaikh and Hafiz Khalid Waleed are members of the committee, according to the JuD chief.

Hafiz Saeed regretted that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistan’s Foreign Office led by Advisor to PM on National Security and

Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz adopted a lenient, weak and passive stance in response to hard-hitting warnings repeatedly coming from India.

“It is the army chief General Raheel Sharif who adopted a strong and bold stance and gave a befitting rejoinder to New Delhi. His statements truly reflect the sentiments of the people of Pakistan.” The head of JuD demanded of PM to ‘break his slumber’ and truly reflect the wishes of Pakistanis by paying India in the same coin. “The time for public diplomacy with India is over. Let us look Indians straight in their eyes. Indians would never learn. They only understand the tough language. It is time our politicians get tougher with India, the sooner, the better.”

PM congratulates nation From Page 1 ter commented.

He said those who were fighting on this dangerous front were sacrificing their today for better future of the nation and on the day, the whole nation expressed solidarity with them.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Sunday the military offensive has entered its final phase and termed one year of Zarbe-Azb as ‘year of success’.

In a statement issued by the defence ministry, Asif paid tributes to the martyred soldiers and citizens, and said “the operation has

HBL acquires barclays From Page 1 acquire Barclays banking business in Pakistan.

Mr. Nauman Dar, President and CEO of HBL said, “HBL takes pride in this acquisition and “we thank the State Bank of Pakistan, the Barclays Staff and the Customers for their cooperation”, Mr. Dar welcome the Barclays customers and staff to the HBL family.

Group involved

achieved several successes in the past year.”

He said the nation was grateful for and indebted to the martyrs of armed forces, commending the families of the martyrs for their extraordinary sacrifices.

“We pay our respects to those who have sacrificed their today for a brighter future for the nation,” he added.

He said that operation Zarb-e-Azb, launched to weed out terrorism, has now entered its final phases. The Minister while paying tribute to the families of Shuhada stated that they have offered

great sacrifices.

He expressed gratitude to the Shuhada of Zarb-eAzb and said that those sacrificing their today for the better future of the nation are very respectable.

Meanwhile, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations Major General Asim Bajwa said on Saturday that military operations against terrorists have ckeared up to 90% of Khyber Agency and Waziristan.

General Asim Saleem Bajwa said that the ongoing operation is going successfully.

2 Baloch From Page 1 or any of the 65 members of Balochistan Assembly adding that Pakistan Army was never against the people of Balochistan.

The provincial president of the ruling party alleged that the people funded by foreign intelligence agencies such as Mossad and CIA were eternal enemies of the Baloch, who have always hatched conspiracies against Pakistan.

From Page 1

NADRA working

most wanted terrorists on Saturday from different areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad in a raid. According to the sources, the arrested terrorists belonged to FATA and had been involved in many terrorist activities all over the country.

From Back Page NADRA is a statutory body and the reports of more than 39 constituencies so for submitted to respective tribunals neither implicate anyone nor exonerate any party, he added.—NNI

Speaking on the occasion, one of the commander, Ubaidullah said he would live as a peaceful citizen. He condemned the killing of twenty labourers in Khuzdar. He said anti-Pakistan elements are pushing Baloch youth into the darkness in the name of independence.

Another BLA commander, Din Jan said he is abandoning the so-called war and wants to join mainstream.

Earlier on Saturday, two commanders, along with 47 militants from banned Baloch insurgent groups, laid down their arms and renounced violence on Saturday. They announced their surrender at a news conference in the presence of Balochistan Home Minister Sarfraz Bugti and PML-N’s senior leader Nawab Jangez Marri.

Houthi forces seize Yemen provincial capital al-Hazm SANAA–Houthi forces and their army allies in Yemen seized the capital of a large desert province on the border with Saudi Arabia on Sunday, residents said, an important victory for the group ahead of peace talks in Geneva on Monday.

The Houthis, the dominant faction in Yemen’s civil war, took control of al-Hazm, capital of the province of al-Jawf, amid Saudiled coalition air strikes on Houthi positions and heavy fighting with armed tribesmen.

“The Houthi forces and those loyal to the former president spread out in the city and around government buildings,” a tribal source in al-Hazm told Reuters by phone.

A Saudi-led military alliance has been carrying out air raids in Yemen for almost three months to try to restore exiled President AbdRabbu Mansour Hadi and repel the Houthis, whom they regard as proxies for their regional archrival Iran.

Since forming an alliance with Yemen’s still

Israel raps UN Gaza report JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday criticized an upcoming United Nations report into last year’s war in the Gaza Strip, calling it a waste of time. Instead, he said an in-depth Israeli report — and another unofficial report compiled by a group of retired Western generals — show “the truth” behind the fighting. Both documents say Israel did its utmost to avoid civilian casualties and said Gaza’s Islamic militant Hamas rulers deliberately attacked Israeli civilians while using their own people as human shields. —AP

Havana to have US embassy HAVANA —The opening of a U.S. embassy in Cuba for the first in 54 years is “imminent,” a U.S. senator said as he and two other Republicans finished a short visit to Cuba said. Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona was in Havana with fellow senators Susan Collins of Maine and Pat Roberts of Kansas on a factfinding mission and to gauge progress on talks to restore normal diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba.

After meeting with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez and North American Affairs Director Josefina Vidal, Flake predicted the opening of both a Cuban embassy in Washington and a U.S. embassy in Havana will occur in the very near future.—AP

Tehran to get good muke deal DUBAI—Iranian President Hassan Rouhani gave a vigorous defense of nuclear negotiations to a domestic crowd on Sunday, pledging to reach a deal that would lift the hardship of sanctions as the talks enter their final weeks.

Speaking at a televised rally in the northeastern city of Bojnord, to mark the second anniversary of his 2013 election victory, Rouhani used sweeping rhetoric to play up the benefits of easing Iran’s long international isolation. “With the guidance of the Supreme Leader and the support of the people, we will enrich both uranium and the economy in Iran,” he told a crowd of thousands. “We want the nation to be happy and productive, to have a bright economy and social welfare—and to have centrifuges too.” While Iran’s negotiating team has crisscrossed the globe trying to seal a nuclear deal.— Reuters

KHUZDAR: Militants fighting the state in Balochistan voluntarily surrendering arms to Nawab Sanaullah Khan Zehri .

Taliban Kunar shadow governor among 15 killed A S A D A B A D —A Taliban ers are identified as shadow provincial governor was killed along 14 militants following an airstrike in eastern Afghanistan’s Kunar province on Sunday, an official source said.

According to a statement released by the National Directorate of Security (NDS) – Afghanistan’s intelligence agency – the airstrike was carried out in Dangam District of Kunar province.

Omar Zadran is identified as the The Taliban shadow governor who was killed along with two other senior Taliban commanders and 12 fighters in the attack.

The other two command-

Mawlawi Asghar who had led a terrorist attack on Dangam District a few months before and Mawlawi Shahabuddin another prominent Taliban commander.

The airstrike was conducted based on intelligence information by NDS. Taliban have not yet commented on the report.

Although NDS statement does not contain the exact date of the airstrike but the directorate issues statements after recent activities.

Taliban had lost their shadow governor for Kunar’s neighboring Nangarhar province.

Mullah Meer Ahmad Gul was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Peshawar city of Pakistan.

“Based on accurate intelligence reports by Afghan forces, a pilotless plane of NATO-led forces carried out an attack on a militants’ hideout in Dangam district early Sunday morning, killing 15 militants including Taliban’s shadowy governor for Kunar named Omar Zadran,” a provincial security official meanwhile said.

The mountainous province, with Asadabad as its capital 180 km east of Kabul, is a known Taliban hotbed. —NNI

Imran’s letter to JC is confession of defeat: PR Z UBAIR Q URESHI ISLAMABAD—Minister for Information and Broadcasting Pervaiz Rashid said on Sunday that the letter written to the Judicial Commission (JC) and the demands of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are actually a confession of defeat by Imran Khan.

In a statement issued Sunday, Rashid said PTI has started writing new letters to the JC after failing to produce evidences and documents and presenting the witnesses before the commission.

He said that during the routine proceedings of the JC, Khan did not demand the Returning Officers (ROs) as witnesses. He said the demand of ROs is another u-turn of the king of the u-turns.

The information minister went on to say

that at a time when the JC is nearing a decision, the demands of the PTI chief tantamount to create a new political confusion.

He further said that Khan is making new demands to create hindrances for achieving national targets.

Rashid also said Khan has failed to prove his allegations regarding rigging in the General Elections 2013, adding that Khan should accept his falsehood and apologise for misleading the nation.

He asked Imran Khan not to create hurdles in the path of the national agenda, which is development of the country and fight against terrorism.

FIA impounds AXACT’S 700 cars, 212 bikes STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Sunday seized 700 cars and 212 motorbikes owned by Axact.

The FIA has directed the Excise and Taxation Department not to transfer any of the vehicles to anyone’s name till further notice. Sources said the list includes cars ranging from a number of Mercedes to Suzuki Mehrans.

Several vehicles at Axact’s warehouses and parking have also been taken into possession by the FIA. According to sources, vehicles and property owned by Bol media group will be sought after in the coming week.

A day earlier, the FIA had revealed that during forensic examination of the servers and computers of Axact it had emerged that the company was also involved in providing hosting services to 25 porn websites.

Italy threatens to ‘hurt’ Europe if no help for migrants

day to turn to a Plan B to deal with migrants which “would hurt Europe” if the country is not given greater help with the crisis, as Austria and France expelled asylum seekers back onto Italian soil. The country is struggling to accommodate an endless wave of boat migrants, and a crackdown on security at the French and Austrian borders over the past few days has exacerbated the situation, causing a bottleneck at Italy’s train stations.—AP

L ONDON —— Britain has pulled out although he claimed in 2013 that the en- newspaper that Russian President crypted files remained secure, Britain believed both Russia and China had cracked documents which contain details that could allow British and American spies to be identified, the newspaper said, citing officials. British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Snowden had done a huge amount of damage to the West’s ability to protect its citizens.

“As to the specific allegations this morning, we never comment on operational intelligence matters so I’m not going to talk about what we have or haven’t done in order to mitigate the effect of the Snowden revelations, but nobody should be in any doubt that Edward Snowden has caused immense damage,” he told Sky News.

An official at Cameron’s office was quoted, however, as saying that there was “no evidence of anyone being harmed.” A spokeswoman at Cameron’s office declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. A Home Office source told the

Bizenjo terms assemblies right platform for pro-revolution talks STAFF REPORTER K ARACHI —National Party (NP) President, Hasil Bizenjo on Sunday said instead of ensuring people’s rights, some powerful elements engaged themselves in the practice of spreading terror and culture of guns.

Addressing the participants of National Convention here, Hasil Bizenjo regretted that the state has completely failed in creating a sense of ownership among the people, who, today stand without any positive hopes for their future.

“Those who let out vociferous shouts standing atop a container in favour of revolution don’t have a single clue as to what actual revolution is all about,” he stressed, adding, the right platform for

pro-revolution talks are the assemblies.

He said ‘we have to take forward the mission of slain Sabeen Mahmoud, Hendry

NADRA working within law: Spokesperson Rejects PTI’s allegation

Masih and others’.

Hasil Bizenjo said the footprints of all criminal elements trail to the highest platforms of power in the country.

7 killed in road accident OUR CORRESPONDENT C HAKWAL —Seven people were killed, and 10 others

were injured when a van colISLAMABAD—The spokesman spokesman said Chairman lided with a dumper in NADRA successfully defended

of National Database & RegisChakwal on Sunday afterAuthority (NADRA) has every aspect of report before the noon.

ROME —Italy threatened Sun- tration judge for three and half hours. dismissed the impression being According to reports, the

Britain pulls out spies as Russia, China crack Snowden files agents from live operations in “hostile countries” after Russia and China cracked top-secret information contained in files leaked by former U.S. National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden, the Sunday Times reported.

Security service MI6, which operates overseas and is tasked with defending British interests, has removed agents from certain countries, the newspaper said, citing unnamed officials at the office of British Prime Minister David Cameron, the Home Office (interior ministry) and security services.

Snowden downloaded more than 1.7 million secret files from security agencies in the United States and Britain in 2013, and leaked details about mass surveillance of phone and internet communications.

The United States wants Snowden to stand trial after he leaked classified documents, fled the country and was eventually granted asylum in Moscow in 2013.

He went to Russia via Hong Kong, and

powerful former president Ali Abdullah Saleh and his loyalists in the army, the Houthis have taken over the capital Sanaa and swooped into several central provinces.

But their push on the country’s southernmost city and major port, Aden, triggered the regional Arab intervention on March 26, and the air campaign has brought about a virtual stalemate in ground fighting nationwide.

United Nations-backed talks in Geneva this week will be attended by delegations representing Hadi, Saleh and the Houthis, but analysts believe prospects are dim for a compromise as fighting rages on.

In the southern province of Dhalea near Aden, local militiamen said they were pushing Houthi forces back after ejecting them from the regional capital last month.

They added that at least 15 Houthi fighters had been killed and 70 detained in the last two days. The reports could not be independently confirmed.—Reuters

Vladimir Putin did not grant Snowden asylum for nothing. “His documents were encrypted but they weren’t completely secure and we have now seen our agents and assets being targeted,” the source said. A British intelligence source said Snowden had done “incalculable damage”. “In some cases the agencies have been forced to intervene and lift their agents from operations to stop them being identified and killed,” the source was quoted as saying.

British security agencies declined to comment. The Russian and Chinese governments were not immediately available for comment. The revelations about the impact of Snowden on intelligence operations comes days after Britain’s terrorism law watchdog said the rules governing the security services’ abilities to spy on the public needed to be overhauled. Conservative lawmaker and former minister Andrew Mitchell said the timing of the report was “no accident”.—Reuters

created by PTI about NADRA is under Government’s pressure.

There is no iota of pressure from government side; in fact PTI leadership has been pressurizing NADRA and its chairman by launching a malicious campaign against them. PTI leadership has also discretely held meetings with NADRA employees union inciting them to stage sit-ins and shut down the registration centres, spokesman said.

Pictures of Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other leaders with NADRA protestors are available on record.

Refuting the allegation that Chairman NADRA did not make eye contact with the Honorable Judge of the election tribunal, the

On only one occasion during a very long cross-questioning by the both parties, chairman NADRA was told by the honorable judge to make an eye contact with him while replying to the question, he added.

However, he said spokesperson of Chairman PTI, Dr Shireen Mazari herself had been found doodling or sleeping during long meetings. She should be the last person to make such ridiculous assertions, he added. The spokesman also dispelled the impression being created by PTI leadership regarding NADRA’s supplementary report casting aspersions on the process of transparency and neutrality.

Continued on Page 7

van was on its way from Mianwali to Chakwal when the accident happened on Talakang Road.

Rescue teams arrived shortly at the scene after the accident. Earlier on Thursday, seven people were killed and 25 others injured when a Sehwan-bound passenger coach overturned near Naushero Feroz bypass.

The passenger coach was on its way to Sehwan from Punjab when the driver lost control near the Naushero Feroz bypass. The speeding vehicle overturned and, as a result, five persons were killed and 25 others, including women and children, were injured.

US to store heavy arms in Baltic, E. Europe WASHINGTON —— The United States plans to decision soon. store heavy military equipment in the Baltics and Eastern European nations to reassure allies made uneasy by Russian intervention in Ukraine, and to deter further aggression, a senior U.S. official said on Saturday.

“We will pre-position significant equipment,” the official said, commenting on a New York Times report that the Pentagon was poised to store battle tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and other heavy weapons for as many as 5,000 troops.

Poland and Lithuania both confirmed they were in talks with Washington on stationing heavy arms in warehouses in the region.

“The threats to the Baltic region have increased.

This has been discussed many times and I view positively (the fact) that talks lead to concrete decisions which, I think, will become a reality,” Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevicius told Reuters.

Poland’s defense minister said he expected a

“During talks in Washington in May I have been assured that the decision will be taken soon,” said a ministry tweet, quoting Defense Minister Tomasz Siemoniak. “This is another step to increase U.S. presence in Poland and the region.”

The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, declined to comment on the details of the report, which cited U.S. and allied officials.

The move would be the first time Washington has stationed heavy military equipment in the newer NATO member states in Eastern Europe and the Baltics that were once under the Soviet sphere of influence or were part of the Soviet Union.

The proposal, which seeks to reassure European allies in the wake of Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea in March 2014, is expected to be approved by U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter and the White House before a NATO defense ministers’ meeting in Brussels this month, the report said, quoting senior officials.—Reuters

Serotonin may not be a major factor in depression, study suggests

N

EW EVIDENCE has put into doubt the long-standing belief that a de ficiency in serotonin - a chemical messenger in the brain - plays a central role in depression. In the journal ACS Chemical Neuroscience, scientists have reported that mice lacking the ability to make serotonin in their brains (and thus will have been “depressed” by conventional wisdom) did not show depression-like symptoms.

Donald Kuhn and colleagues at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center and Wayne State University School of Medicine noted that depression poses a major public health problem.

The World Health Organization estimates that more than 350 million people suffer from it and it is said to be the leading cause of disability across the globe.

In the late 1980s, the now well-known antidepressant Prozac was introduced.

The drug works mainly by increasing the amounts of one substance in the brain serotonin. So scientists came to believe that boosting levels of the signaling molecule was the key to solving depression.

Based on this idea, many other drugs to treat the condition entered the picture.

But now researchers know that 60 to 70 percent of these patients continue to feel depressed, even while taking the drugs.

Kuhn’s team set out to study what role, if any, serotonin played in the condition.

To do this, they developed “knockout” mice that lacked the ability to produce serotonin in their brains. The scientists ran a battery of behavioral tests.

Interestingly, the mice were compulsive and extremely aggressive, but didn’t show signs of depression-like symptoms. Another surprising finding is that when put under stress, the knockout mice behaved in the same way most of the normal mice did. In addition, a subset of the knockout mice responded therapeutically to antidepressant medications in a similar manner to the normal mice.

The researchers stated that these findings may be evidence that serotonin is not a major player in the condition, and that different factors must be involved. They concluded by suggesting that these results could dramatically alter how the search for new antidepressants moves forward in the future. Another reason for pursuing nonpharmacologic methods of increasing serotonin arises from the increasing recognition that happiness and wellbeing are important, both as factors protecting against mental and physical disorders and in their own right. Conversely, negative moods are associated with negative outcomes.

A view of lush green trees flourishing on a road side in federal capital.—INP

Road infrastructure work in Park Enclave in full bloom CITY REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Road infrastructure development work in Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) housing project Park Enclave is in full bloom and will be completed with a couple of months. CDA spokesman told Pakistan Observer here on Sunday that Triple Surface Treatment (TST) of all the roads is in progress while road carpeting would be done soon after the completion of TST. Contractor of Park Enclave Project has fully mobilized the heavy machinery to ensure completion development work within stipulated time.

The construction work from Kuri and Park Road started recently while work on water supply, drainage , security check posts and development work on remaining infrastructure is in full swing, the CDA spokesman said.

For the first time, in order to complete

Over 2,500 personnel to perform security duties during Ramazan STAFF REPORTER I S L A M A B A D —More than 2500 personnel including policemen, security guards and Masajid guards will perform security duties during the holy month of Ramazan to ensure elaborate arrangements in coordination with the notables in various areas. According to police source, a plan has been chalked out and 2500 security men will perform special duties at 720 Masajids and 39 imambargahs. Police officials/security guards/masjid guards will be deployed for the security of worship places in Islamabad during the month of holy Ramazan.

These security arrangements shall be supervised by five SPs

while Additional SHO would conduct security checking during Namaz timings.

Special police strength has been called from Police Line Headquarters and provided to various police stations with the purpose to ensure effective security duties at worship places and markets. Police stations have been directed to coordinate with office bearers of traders union in their respective areas to ensure effective security along with security guards.

Food will be provided to policemen performing duties at police pickets during Sehri and Iftari timings in Ramazan.

Special drive against the professional beggars would be

launched and they should not be allowed to gather outside the worship places. Mosque committees would also not allow any stranger or outsider for stay in worship places.

The police officials have been also directed to carry out special checking of hotels, motels, inns and guest houses for security purpose. Mosque committees would conduct checking through metal detectors and would also deploy private security guards fort the purpose.

The police officials have been directed to carry out special checking of hotels, motels, inns and guest houses for security purpose. Meanwhile property dealers were also directed to fur-

nish the record of tenants to the SHOs of their respective areas.

Moreover checking at the exit and entry points may be intensified without causing any embarrassment to the citizens.

All the SDPOs and SHO have been directed to personally supervise the security arrangements during Ramazan and ensure the deployment of police officials or private security guards where it was necessary and in this regard no laxity shall be tolerated.

Station House Officers (SHOs) have been asked to brief people in their areas regarding proper lock to their houses in prayers’ timings and keeping the lights on during this time.

ITP road safety campaign underway CITY REPORTER I SLAMABAD —The awareness campaign for safety of motorcyclists is in full swing and thousands of bikes have been repaired free of cost during the last three days. The campaign was formally launched by Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) in collaboration with Atlas Honda and special teams have been constituted to educate bike riders as how to ensure their safety before travelling on roads.

Police spokesman said that these teams are performing duties at various main roads of the city and briefing the motorcyclists about safe journey.

The motorcyclists driving the bikes without helmets and side mirrors or having defective indicators, headlights, rear lights and speedometers are being educated and appealed to get faulty parts repaired.

The SSP (Traffic) Malik Matloob said the purpose of this campaign is to ensure safety of motorcyclists and prevent any road mishap by educating them about safe road environment. He said that Honda Atlas is assisting the motorcyclists during this campaign to repair the defective lights, indicators or other equipment.

development work within given time frame and resolve the issues of affecctees amicably , CDA management is opting dialogue process instead of enforcement operation, to get the possession of land. In this way CDA administration is trying to involve the affecctees of Islamabad directly in the development process of the city, he said. According to the CDA official, fast pace of development work in Park Enclave Housing project indicates that project would be completed within stipulated time and help provide a sate-of-the-art residential facility to the residents of Islamabad.

Due to fast pace of development work in Park Enclave, construction of two (02) over head and two (02) underground water tanks, four (04) security check posts and five (05) culverts have been completed while two (02) tube wells have also been installed.

Children enjoying themselves in water to beat the heat in the slum area of city.—DNA

Learning English the non-English way!

ZUBAIR QURESHI RAWALPINDI —“I am fail in English subject but I thank I work hard and should be pass,” says Yasmin, a student of class 7 of an English medium school on Tipu Road, a hub of schools and colleges while talking to Pakistan Observer here on Sunday. The girl was trying to prove something which went against her. She was not promoted to the next class.

The recently announced findings by a non-government organization working in education sector show failure ratio among the school students in English subject is the highest. English and Mathematics are two subjects, which the students as well as their parents fear most. Often children perform poorly in exams in spite of daily tuitions. In the last exams, English results were the most worrisome.

When asked why children perform so badly, an English teacher said, “Whatever the performance

of the children the blame cannot be shifted on teachers. Teachers are helpless. The children have to work, which they don’t.”

However, she said there are some teachers teaching English in schools who are not proficient in English. Some are untrained and some poorly educated. And their knowledge of English is appalling.

The fact is that they should not be teaching English in schools or any other set up.”

“In the public sector (government) schools, teachers do have PTC, CT or BEd qualifications. This again is not quite sufficient to teach English, whereas in private schools and colleges teachers keep changing all the time.”

This again is not a good thing.

Every teacher has his/her own method of teaching and it takes a while for students to pick up the teacher ’s style of teaching and vice versa,” she said. Haroon Khan, a teacher of English, at a private school agreed to the already

agreed upon principle of read and digest even in the case of English.

Unless we teach the subject to students in a lively interesting way, students would continue to fear the subject and perform poorly in it, he said.

“There are very few books available in the market most of them are with culturally irrelevant examples and illustrations,” he was referring to books on grammar either by Indian or Western writers.

“Children find it difficult to comprehend anecdotes, examples and stories given in the foreign books.

These books fail to evoke students’ interest in the language and have to resort to rota or cramming.”

Such parroting becomes a characteristic throughout their academic career and are not able to make significant progress in studies,” he said. Yasmin’s case is not different from many like her who have not been able to do well in colleges and universities and even in public life.

Islamabad’s club picks up winners’ trophy

Tent pegging event concludes as families, fans throng polo ground ZUBAIR QURESHI I S L A M A B A D —The twoday National Tent Pegging Championship concluded here on Sunday on a note of optimism that one day the government would realize and patronize this traditional and indigenous sport of Pakistan ‘tent pegging’.

On the last day of the event that was organized

by Pakistan Tent Pegging Association and Pakistan Horse Breeders Equestrian & Racing Foundation prizes were distributed among the first, second and third teams, prizes in single category were also dis-

Chief Guest Shahbaz Zaheer, Director Shahzad International Group of Companies, giving trophy to the players of winning team of Hussainia Ghusia Mehria Tajdar-eGolra during concluding ceremony of Horse and Horseman National tent pegging competition organized by Pakistan Tent Pegging Association and Pakistan Horse Breeders Equestrian and Racing Foundation. Chief Organizer Adil Shah is also present on the occasion.—PO photo by Sultan Bashir

tributed. Showers in the daytime had turned the weather pleasant and dignitaries, horse lovers, sportsmen and families along with children turned up in great number to see the decisive rounds.

Hussainia Ghousia Mehria Tajdaar-e-Golra Club picked up the winner’s trophy with maximum points and for making best moves.

Muhammadi Haideri Ghazi Ravi Ittehad club of Tandlianwala District Faisalabad bagged the second prize while Islamabad’s Shah Allah Ditta’s club Muhammadi Haideri Hussainia Naqvi al-Bukhari club bagged the

third prize.

Chief Guest Shahbaz Zaheer, Director Shahzad International Group of Companies gave away the trophy to the winning champions.

Mian Muhammad Akhtar Ayaz former DIG was the judge while Syed Adil Shah was the chief organizer of the event.

Talking to Pakistan Observer members of the winning team Hussainia Ghousia Mehria Club, Qaiser Mehmood, Mehar Amir Ali Amrana, Mehar Zulfiqar Purbana and Rai Ashraf Ali Kharal expressed their pleasure at the fact that the winner’s trophy had been won by

the city’s club which is hosting the event. “We have been contesting with the best teams and it is only due to God’s grace and prayers of the elders that we have bagged the first prize,” said the team leader Qaiser Mehmood.

A number of families that had come to witness the tent pegging show hoped and wished the government should patronize the sport and hold such events regularly to keep the youth healthy and physically smart.

“It is a sheer delight to be here on the spacious grounds of the Islamabad Polo Club witnessing a game that pumps adrena-

line at a high speed and makes you appreciative of the skills of the horseman and the pace of the horses,” said Iqbal a resident of F-7 who had come along with his family.

Shaista Saleem who was there to support her brother said in the beginning she did not find much liking for the sport but when she saw the horsemen vying for the target and horses dashing within seconds she thinks she will not miss it again. The government instead of wasting money on fairs and festivals should hold such event that attracts local as well as foreign media’s attention, she said.

Citizens’ enthusiasm for metro ride still worth seeing Fajar Zohr Asr

04:30 ISLAMABAD—The excitement and enthusiasm 01:45 of the citizens of twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad is still worth seeing for having a 05:30 ride on the long-awaited metro bus service

Meghrab at Sunset Isha 08:30 Brothers in Islam establish regular prayers & charity

June 15

Open House Roots Ivy Open House for all O/A-Levels students will be held on 15th June 2015 at Roots DHA-1 Campus Islamabad.

June 16

Talk SADIQ Babur Girgin, Ambassador, Republic of Turkey will give a Public Talk on “Pakistan-Turkish Relations” at The Institute of Strategic Studies Sector F-5/2, Islamabad on Tuesday, June 16, 2015 at 1730 hrs at the Institute of Strategic Studies, Sector F-5/2, Islamabad. ****

Talk COMSATS Science Diplomacy Section and Pakistan Academy of Sciences will hold a talk on UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol and Beyond

by Prof Dr. Athar Hussain on Tuesday, June 16, at Pakistan Academy of Science, Constitution Avenue Islamabad.

Eight booked for renting rules’ violation R AWALPINDI—Eight cases have been registered against property landlords and tenants on violation of Punjab Information of Temporary Residence Ordinance 2015 as the accused did not pass on the required particulars to the police. A police spokesman informed that Rattaamral police registered FIRs against Saleem, Sher Zaman, Waheed, Arshad, Sabit, Habib ur Rehman, Waqar and Yar Muhammad on renting rules violations.

Action in accordance with the law is being taken against the rules violators under National Action plan, he added.—APP

IESCO issues power suspension schedule I

S L A M A B A D —The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) Sunday issued a power suspension programme for various areas of its region due to necessary maintenance and routine development work.

According to the IESCO spokesman, the power supply of following feeders / grid stations would remain suspended as under: On June 15-16, from 08:00am to 12:00noon from Left Mangala Grid Bang-2, Mirpur-1 & 2 feeders.—APP

even after six days of its inauguration.

Every station of this state-of-the-art metro bus facility is still overcrowded with the travellers especially women and children who are eager to have a ride in this service mainly for entertainment and enjoyment purposes.

Murad Ali, a passenger after taking ride on metro bus with his friends said, the service is not less than the same facility in the other countries.

“I enjoyed the ride a lot as this service is comfortable and inexpensive, and no one wants to travel on local vans and buses now after travelled on it”, he added.

Shaheen, another passenger said, “I have to wait in the long queues at Murree Road station. People are even not ready to wait for the next bus to come and all of sudden they aboard the bus whether they get seat or have to stand”.

“There were more visitors in the bus and very less office-goers and students. Most of the visitors were taking pictures and enjoying their first ride with their family and

friends”, she added.

The metro bus service and its illuminated stations and track with bunting and balloons is giving a picturesque view to the landscape of the twin cities, adding more charm and beauty, she said.

Aslam Shah, an office-goer said, metro-bus project would open new vistas of prosperity to the country and this people-oriented project would make it convenient for students and office-goers to reach their destinations comfortably at affordable rate.

A life time pass for Rs 130 was available for sale on which commuters could charge amount for travelling in the bus, he said, adding maximum recharge limit was Rs 1,000 and on each travel Rs 20 would be deducted from the card account.

The multi-billion Metro Bus project was started in March last year which will cater around 153,000 passengers, commuting between the two cities on daily basis. The service started with 68 busses on 23 km long track from Saddar to Secretariat, including 24 staA large number of people are travelling on Metro Bus and it is needed that authorities should increase number of tions. It will remain open for public from 6.00 am to 11.30 pm.—APP buses to meet the demands of the passengers.—PO photo by Sultan Bashir

Margallah hiking trails become favourite place for visitors ISLAMABAD—The hiking trails at Margalla National Park are attracting a large number of people from twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi for recreation activities.

The Capital Development Authority (CDA), the civic body of the city has beautifully erected trails for the people who want to enjoy hiking and jogging.

People are visiting the trails in routine, while some enjoy on the weekends with their families. Particularly, senior citizen also can be seen on Trail 3 of the Margalla National Park in early morning and evening.

Talking to APP, Suleman, a visitor said that

he used to come on Trail 3 on daily basis along with his friends. Another visitor Bilal said that he come to the trails every weekend along with his family as it was a good source of exercise and entertainment.

Dr. Asif, a medical practitioner said that hiking makes you healthy and relaxes your mind, he added. He said that hiking improve muscular fitness, lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, breast cancer and reduce depression. He suggested people should regularly exercise and eat healthy to avoid medical complications in old age.—APP

Ramazan ration distributed among poor families STAFF REPORTER R AWALPINDI —South Asian Pulse Relief Forum with the coordination of Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) Sunday organized a welfare activity at RAC Auditorium in which Ramazan ration worth one million rupees was distributed among 350 white collar poor families.

Former Secretary General Foreign Affairs, Akram Zaki presided over while former Interior Minister, Malik Habib Khan was the Chief Guest at the occasion.

Chairman South Asian Pulse Relief Forum Rana Abdul Baqi read out the special messages of Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, former

Air Chief Marshal, Kaleem Saadat, former Federal Tax Secretary, Feroze Ansari and Principal Dr. Ghulam Akbar Niazi for expressing solidarity with the poor families.

Speakers including Malik Habib Khan, Akram Zaki, former Federal Secretary, Muzzafar Qureshi, a renowned writer from North America, Abida Rehmani, former Director RAC, Naheed Manzoor and Rana Abdul Baqi expressed solidarity with the poor families and demanded of the government to follow the vision of Allama Iqbal and the founder of Pakistan Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to make Pakistan a true Muslim Welfare State.

Citizens asked to dispose of solid waste properly ISLAMABAD—Residents of twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have been advised to properly dispose of solid waste at their houses to prevent access to egg-laying female mosquitoes.

According to health experts, the people should avoid water storage practices and take other special preventive measures to protect themselves from dengue virus.

They said mosquitoes breed primarily in containers like earthenware jars, metal drums and concrete cisterns used for domestic water storage, as well as discarded plastic food containers, used automobile tyres and other items that collect rain water.

Dr Sharif Astori of the Federal Government Poly Clinic (FGPC) said that dengue was a mosquito-borne infection, which in recent years had become a major public health concern.

He said dengue fever was a severe, flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults. He added the spread of dengue is attributed to expanding geographic distribution of the four dengue viruses and of their mosquito vectors, the most important of which is the predominantly urban species aedes aegypti.

He said the rapid growth of urban population is bringing ever greater numbers of people into contact with

this vector, especially in areas that are favourable for mosquito breeding like where household water storage is common and where solid waste disposal services are inadequate.

Dr Astori said dengue viruses are transmitted to humans through the bites of infective female aedes mosquitoes. He added that mosquitoes generally acquire the virus while feeding on the blood of an infected person.

He said after virus incubation for eight to ten days, an infected mosquito is capable, during probing and blood feeding, of transmitting the virus to susceptible individuals for the rest of its life.—APP

National talent hunt programme to be launched across country

Northern Areas bound tourists to get rebate in Ramzan ISLAMABAD—The tourists plan to visit the Northern Areas of Pakistan will now get 35 percent rebate on their stay at the motels of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) during the month of Ramzan.

The holy month of Ramzan is falling in peak tourism season for last few years and PTDC is giving this discount to facilitate the tourists during the holy month, said a spokesman of PTDC while talking to APP. Besides this, the seasonal bus service of PTDC is serving the fun lovers from Rawalpindi to Naran on daily basis as over 2000 tourists enter Naran on weekdays and over 20,000 on weekends.

From the start of June to late August, tourists belonging to warm areas of the country throng the popular tourist spots of Naran, Muree, Ayubia and Kashmir to spend their summer vacations in picturesque landscapes

and pleasant weather. For last few years the number of visitors was increasing as advancement in technologies developed their interest in visiting and exploring new places during their summer vacations.

Queen of Hills - Murree, Nathiagali, Ayubia, Kaghan Valley, Naran and Azad Kashmir are the main focus for people to explore more greenery, lakes, rivers and scenic landscapes of mountains.

The domestic tourists consider Murree and Ustad Khurram Ali Khan and companions enthralling the audience during Sham-e-Qalandar.

Nathiagali as most accessible tourist spot while their teachings could help curbing ex- While remembering his contribution for STAFF REPORTER Kaghan Valley is also popular for those havtremism & terrorism from the country. media developments president PFUJ ing urge for exploring more spots.

He praised the efforts being made by hope that Mr. Imran Gardezi will continue ISLAMABAD—The government has deMountains are considered as the place for cided to launch national talent hunt the leadership of PFUJ and IMI News to play his role in future for the welfare of leisure activities for tourists as people admire programme to explore artists and singers Agency’s editor Syed Tabassum Abbas media persons. During the event performthe beauty of these areas for the reasons of from across the country, Director General for making the program successful. He ers belong to Chakwal Party and others the climate and clean air, varied topography, Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) bestowed awards to performers includ- have mesmerized the audience and rebeautiful scenery, local traditions and simple Syed Imran Gardezi. ing Ustad Khurram Ali Khan of Chakwal ceived applause. life styles.—APP While addressing at a Party, Farhat and Musarrat, Kazim Ali, Mujtaba Bangash, brother of Aahtezaz function”Shaam-e-Qalandar” organized Ustad Ulfat Ali, Ustad Asad Abbas, Syed Hassan martyred, Choudhary Yaseen

by PFUJ and IMI news agency Imran Najam Shah, Qari Abdullah, Hafiz Chairman CDA labor Union, Shakeel Gardezi has said that Radio Pakistan Shamraiz and Aahtazaz Naqi for their best Naqvi president OPF Union and other personalities have also attended the would dispatch its team across the coun- performance on the occasion.

Afzal Butt, president PFUJ said that Sham-e-Qalandar. In the end Asim Qadeer try at District and Tehsil levels in order to explore national talent. He said that saints they would continue to arrange programs Rana Chief Coordinator PFUJ has prayed like Shahbaz Qalandar devoted their lives to remember the teachings of saints as for development and prosperity of the for preaching and spreading the Islam and well as national and provincial days. Pakistani Nation and the motherland.

Group show of amateur artists continues to allure visitors STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Making the Mark, a group show of art works by the graduates of National College of Arts (NCA) Rawalpindi is continued to allure visitors here at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) till July 7. Curated by Aasim Akhtar, the exhibited pieces were created for Annual Degree show of the NCA by the students from a diverse group to represent art work of many dimensions.

According to Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri, Principal, NCA, the show investigated formal concerns as the work contextualized opinions, personal queries and beliefs, social practices, gender politics and everything within and around the experiences of these students who Children watching the pictures at an exhibition on Muslims’ plight in Myanmar organized by Jamaat-e-Islami.—INP boldly presented their views in the De-

gree Show.

He says the show was meaningful within the context of environment surrounding the students and the campus where they had produced their work. The faculty and the students of the Department of Fine Arts have worked to produce excellent work and maintain the standards of art.

Director NCA, Dr Nadeem Omar Tarrar, termed the institution as a breeding ground for emerging artists and architects, alternative art spaces and risktaking galleries to serve the masses as the contemporary art capital of the Potohar region. He said such art shows are an attempt to foster an appreciation of vibrant human creativity and a reflection into the future from the cultural mirror of our lives and times.

The display features sculptures, miniatures, paintings, videos and some pieces of print making all based on diverse ideas from personal to political.

As many as 45 art pieces were put on display by 15 graduates; all created their work on national and international sociocultural politics while contrary to it, some of them visualized their personal concerns, said Aasim Akhtar, curator of the show.

Talking to reporter, he said the show is an opportunity for budding generation of artists to showcase their hidden ability on a platform of national level and this endeavor will not only display the standards of art for amateur artists in Pakistan but also encourage them to express their ideas and visualize them through various mediums.

Kashmir is now governed from Nagpur: Omar SRINAGAR —Former Jammu and Kashmir here. What does it mean? That they will give Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said that the state government was working on the agenda of RSS. The National Conference Working President said, “These days various orders are being given. Many have indulged in looting of forest produce. It has happened in Kashmir, Ladakh, Kargil and Jammu as well.

But when you start an inquiry, you take the names of only a few areas in Jammu. Why? You know it fully. It is only RSS agenda to evict Muslims from there. This is their politics,” Omar said adding “we will not let this to succeed”.

He said the decisions of the state government were taken at Nagpur-an apparent reference to RSS headquarters. “In our time the state had two capitals - Jammu and Srinagar, but now it has one only - Nagpur. No decision is taken here. They are taken in Nagpur first. Have the people given 28 seats to Sayeed for this?” Omar questioned.

Omar also sought to link the spate of terror attacks in Sopore area with Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar’s alleged remark about revival of ‘Ikhwanis’, an outfit of reformed militants in the state.

He alleged that it was the “RSS agenda” to evict Muslims from the Jammu region of the state. “The Defence minister says that militants will be used for killing militants

a rebirth to Ikhwaan (government-sponsored gunmen). Since his (Parrikar’s) statement came, see the situation in Sopore. Someone is being killed there regularly. This is because of this government,” Omar said addressing a massive rally in Srinagar against the PDP-BJP government.

Omar added,”I had not lent my support (to PDP) because I was power hungry. I had power for six years and was ready to sit in the opposition. But I was worried that the you (chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed) wanted to join your hands. The RSS would prove to be a deadly poison for the state. And it is really getting proved today.”

Taking another swipe at Sayeed, Omar said the chief minister seems to believe that Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan was the solution to every problem in the state. “We (Omar government) had brought tourists here.

Sayeed made a flood announcement and tourism wound up from the state.

There is no one staying in hotels or shikaras. No one is coming here but Sayeed went to Mumbai to get Shahrukh Khan here. All Parties Hurriyat Conference demonstrates against killing of Tehreek-e-Hurriyat activist in Sopore.

He seems to think that Khan is the solution to every problem here Had it really been that, I would have myself said that Khan should be made the chief minister of this state.

What is the benefit of Sayeed then?” he asked.—KD

Eviction of Jammu Muslims RSS plan: Malik

Waving ISIS flags unwise: Geelani H Y D E R P O R A , I H K —The Chairman of Hurriyat Conference (G) Syed Ali Geelani has termed the waving of “ISIS” flags in a peaceful demonstration as an act “against discipline and wisdom,” saying that “It gives a reason to New Delhi to defame our struggle by linking it with the global terrorism.”

“Such acts provide New Delhi a reason to defame our just and genuine freedom struggle before the world community. It (New Delhi) correlates it with global terrorism to prepare an adverse environment for the Kashmir movement in the international forums,” said Geelani, in a statement.

“The Kashmir issue has nothing to do with the agendas or the policies and course of action of the ISIS or other organizations like it.

The people of Kashmir are just fighting for their right to self-determination and they

are not following any international program.

Besides the UNO, the whole world community accepts our struggle as the genuine and based on truth. Despite the tireless efforts of New Delhi, the world doesn’t agree that the Kashmir issue is any communal or terrorism related problem.”

“Our beloved youth who raise the flags of the ISIS and organizations like it in the peaceful demonstrations should cool mindedly think over that what we can gain by doing this? Contrary to any kind of benefit, it gives a reason to New Delhi to justify their coercive actions in Jammu & Kashmir,” Geelani said, condemning the continued house detention of Tehreek-e-Hurriyat (TeH) general secretary Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai, Hurriyat spokesman Ayaz Akbar and district president Srinagar and Ganderbal Raja Meraj-ud-Din.—GK

MAISUMA, IHK—Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman Muhammad Yaseen Malik has alleged that the PDP-BJP government was creating controversies from day one and moves like eviction of Muslims in Jammu was part of RSS agenda.

Talking to reporters during hunger strike and sitin protest against eviction of Muslims, at Maisuma here, Malik said the government led by Mufti Muhammad Sayeed has been triggering controversy after controversy.

“This government was born with controversies only,” Malik said. “First, settlement of West Pakistan Refugees, then settlement of Kashmiri Pandits in separate townships, then giving State Subject Certificates in schools and now eviction of Muslims,” he said.

“At this juncture, we are with our Muslim brethren of Chenab Valley. I have decided to leave for Jammu to meet the civil society members and the people who were evicted to get a firsthand account of the situation.”

He said civilized society has the right to pose question to the government as to why the axe is falling on Muslims only when the region comprises ma-

Former militant shot dead SOPORE, IHK —A former militant was shot dead outside his home in Sopore area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Sunday, police said.

37-year-old Meraj-ud-Din Dar son of Muhammad Ishaq received bullet injuries in his face after unidentified gun-

men fired at him in Badam Bagh area of the town at 8:30 am, they said.

Dar, a former member of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), ran a poultry shop in a nearby market.

This is the third killing in Sopore in the past 10 days. Earlier, a Tehreek-

e-Hurriyat activist was killed by unidentified gunmen in New Colony Sopore. Two days back, a trade union leader Khursheed Ahmad was shot dead in Bomai area.

No organisation has so far claimed the responsibility of the attack.—GK

Boatmen battle with heavy tides in Dal Lake following heavy downpour and strong winds in Srinagar on Sunday afternoon.

jority of Hindus. “Is it that Hindus have not occupied or encroached on forest land?” Malik questioned. He said that in Jammu there have always been anti-Muslim policies since 1947. “History is witness how Muslims were murdered in Jammu in 1947,” Malik said.

He said eviction of Muslims from Jammu forests is part of a deep-rooted conspiracy of RSS. “JKLF will not allow RSS to succeed in its anti-Muslim agenda in J&K,” Malik said. “We will oppose all antiMuslim moves of BJP and RSS tooth and nail.”

On whether he would support the idea of public agitation against the eviction of Muslims as advocated

by Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Malik said that there can be a “joint strategy or a joint program” against the treatment meted out to Muslims in Jammu. “We have done it in past also, and we can do it now as well,” he said.

Many civil society members also spoke on the occasion. “1947-like situation is being created in Jammu region by present rulers who have without any shame started implementing RSS agenda of throwing out Muslims from the region,” they said.

Jammu parties begin indefinite dharna over AIIMS demand JAMMU —The coordination committee of various civil groups demanding the setting up of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Jammu, has started an indefinite dharna in Jammu.

“To press for their demand for an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Jammu, the AIIMS coordination committee supported by the members from other civil society groups today started its indefinite dharna here today,” said Abhinav Sharma, president of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar association. The coordination committee supported by Congress party began dharna in front of the status of Maharaja Hari Singh at Tawi Bridge on Friday morning. The group, a collection of more than 70 social, religious, political and business organisations in Jammu, was established to demand an AIIMS in the region, Sharma said.

“The indefinite dharna will continue till the demand is fulfilled by the Central and State government,” he said. There has been continuous injustice with the people of Jammu and the issue of shifting of AIIMS from J&K is a glaring example of that injustice, the people here are resolved not to tolerate this injustice anymore, Sharma added.—RK

Naqash condemns foiling of Hurriyat seminar SRINAGAR—All Parties Hurriyat Conference soon,” he added.

(APHC) leader and chairman Islamic Political Party-JK Muhammad Yousuf Naqash has condemned the police action of preventing the participants to attend the seminar organized by All Parties Hurriyat Conference.

The seminar was titled as ‘How to Resist the Indian State Fascism’. In a press note issued to media on Sunday, Naqash lashed out at the so-called administration for foiling the peaceful seminar, he strongly condemned the act and termed the continuous house detention of All Parties Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani as unjustified. “Due to continuous house arrest, Geelani Sahib’s health has also deteriorated which is extremely condemnable,” he said.

The APHC leader said our struggle for freedom is replete with the blood of our martyrs and Allah willing we will succeed in our mission. “Our struggle for freedom from the forcible occupations of India will reap fruit very

T

HE day J&K was clubbed by force with India, Kashmiris started losing their identity, sovereignty and other rights.

Conflict provided an background for various political thoughts to fight for the return of lost glories, and rights of Kashmiris.

However, facts reveal that no political leader has contributed anything in getting back what he promised, except ensuring rise to his own stature, thus a human tragedy called the “dispute of J&K” turned into a fruitful industry for them, and disaster for common masses.

From Late Sheikh Sahib to a grassroots level political workers, people have benefited from this industry, but there has been no achievement that Kashmiris could have celebrated since 1947.

Leaders have been getting a free hand to do things of their choice, reason being the culture that has blocked transparency, introspection and accountability. It has been a tragedy that despite offering everything to their lead-

ers Kashmiris have never enquired from them about achievements. After shameful Indra – Abdullah Accord when Kashmiris were reluctant to show resistance to the accord, it was Zulufkar Ali Bhutoo who by giving a strike call had to remind Kashmiris that they have been betrayed by Sheikh Abdullah.

The disastrous thing has been that the leaders who headed anti-India resistance movements from time to time shaped up the perception, after every deal, that they have achieved more than what they were fighting for. but it was always a surrender and compromise, once the agreements came into public domain.

Even if those who pretend to be hardcore and refuse to enter any dialogue process do also contribute, by their utterances, to the process of pushing Kashmiris to the wall. Who asks Kashmiris to compromise on Aazadi or Right to Self Determination, but they need to explain that how can they move ahead without proper consolidation, and preserving what they have with them already. It is self explana-

tory that even in wars between countries, or in local disputes, parties consolidate what they have with them before fighting for bigger target, and if they fail to do so they lose whatsoever they have with them. This is what is happening to Kashmiris.

Going by this strong argument Kashmiris need to force India to go back to terms and conditions of instrument of accession of 1947.

Everybody needs to understand that it is the instrument of accession and UN resolutions that make J&K a dispute and not the sermons of leaders in mosques, or issuing statements by others in drawing rooms.

Assuming for a while India restores the Autonomy and instrument of accession in letter and spirit, how does it change the disputed nature; as instrument of accession itself demands plebiscite and government of India’s argument that constituent assembly has authenticated instrument of accession doesn’t hold good as our assembly by no means can replace and supersede UN assembly. However, these are all assumptions and few Kashmiris includ-

Naqash said that “fascist and tyrant approach won’t deter us from righteous path.”

He added that “Hurriyat had invited intellectuals and experts to address the seminar but authorities didn’t allow the invitees to reach the venue.”

Muhammad Yousuf Naqash said International Community should take appropriate measures at national, regional and local levels to ensure that the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, as enshrined in Article 11 of the Convention which must not be violated in Kashmir at any cost.

“There was no law and order issue involved or apprehensions about the same, but the authorities without any reason and logic stopped us from organizing the seminar. They even prevented the regular staff members of the amalgam from discharging their duties,” the APHC leader said while terming it as an act of frustration.—KW

Kashmiri team to highlight Kashmir issue in UN rights body STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD —A 7-member Kashmir delegation left on Sunday for Geneva to take part in 29th session of United Nations Human Rights Council.

“The delegation will apprise members of human rights council; Geneva based diplo-

J&K dispute turns ‘fruitful’!

ER RASHID

“In 1947, Muslims constituted 66 per cent of the total population in Jammu but more than three lakh Muslims were massacred and many more forcefully displaced by Hindu chauvinist forces like RSS with the help of the then rulers.”

Noted civil society activist Dr Altaf Hussain said that in 1947 NC patriarch Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah remained silent and did nothing to save Muslims of Jammu.

“Today Kashmiris will not remain aloof from Jammu Muslims and will resist every communal and oppressive move against them,” he said.

Among prominent personalities who addressed participants of JKLF protest included Zareef Ahmad Zareef, columnist AjazulHaq, DrJaved Iqbal, Abdul Majeed Zargar, ShakilQalandar, President Bar Association Mian Abdul Qayoom, ex-president Bar Advocate Nazir Ahmad Ronga, general secretary Bar Advocate Muhammad Ashraf Butt, Advocate Mir Shafaqat Hussain, President APDP ParveenaAhangar, ImdadSaqi, MirwaizQaziYasir, MoulanaReyaz Ahmad Shah, Moulana Ghulam Nabi Shah and Moulana Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Naqeeb. —GK

ing separatists are giving a notion as if India is begging before them to accept autonomy and restoration of other constitutional erosions.

One more thing that needs to be taken into consideration is that if providing special status to Pakistani Part of Kashmir doesn’t make that part ineligible for right to self determination, how come could restoration of autonomy be a brain child of Indian agencies for this part of J&K. Allow me to say humbly that either our leaders don’t want Kashmir issue to be resolved or they are short of vision, ideas and wisdom, that debars them from making a right decision at right time.

Let us declare without any fear that no individual or organisation has a right to stop anyone from talking about the political aspirations and dispute of J&K, as it is a movement which has survived against all odds only because it represents a cause of oppressed. And every Kashmiri has contributed to protecting it, one way or the other.

—Courtesy: Greater Kashmir

mats, special procedures and mandate holders of human rights council and members of international human rights organizations about the human rights situation of Indian occupied Kashmir”, leader of the delegation Altaf Hussain Wani told reporters.

Other members of the delegation included Sayed Faiz Naqashbandi , Sardar Amjad Yousaf Khan , Mrs. Shamim Shawl , Ms. Shugafta Ashraf , Mr. Ishtiyaqe Hameed and Mr. Ahmed Qurashie .

Altaf Hussain Wani senior Hurriyate leader and Vice chairman of Jammu Kashmir National Front who is leading the seven member delegation, continued that the delegation will also organize seminars of the different issues of human rights in United Nations Geneva on the sidelines of the human rights council session.

Renowned human rights activists, UN experts and Members of parliament have confirmed their participation in these sideline events.

Delegation will take part in debates and discussions in the UN human rights council. Delegation will also organize a photo-exhibition of atrocities perpetuated by Indian occupations forces on the innocent people of Kashmir.

It is good to be present there at Geneva during this ses-

sion , you get an opportunity to meet the diplomats , UN officials and Human rights NGO,s under one roof and share your views . On one hand it provides us opportunity to lobby for our cause and on the other hand it is a good learning , as how to use United Nations Mechanisms for the redressal of your complaints.

Wani said over the period of time and due the efforts of the people working on human rights front , world has acknowledged that Indian state has failed to respect the rights of the people of Indian occupied Kashmir and India has been facing a lot of criticism on it s human rights record particularly in Indian occupied Kashmir.

The reports of the special rapporteur on human rights defenders and special rapporteur on extra –judicial killings and the situation of human rights documented by Amnesty international , human rights watch and local human rights group coalition of civil society has made Indian position very week on human rights front .

We will inform the world about the saga of extra-judicial killings , after Indian defense ministers statement that they will use terror to defeat the peoples resistance, he added.

Sharjah free zones enhance trade relations SHARJAH—A high-level delegation from Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) joined the 9th World Chambers Congress, which concluded recently at the Lingotto Congress Centre in Torino, Italy. SAIF Zone’s booth attracted a huge number of chamber of commerce directors in addition to Vincenzo Ilotte, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Torino, Peter Mihok, Chair of the ICC World Chamber Federation.

Piero Fassino, Mayor of Torino, also visited the stand and praised SAIF Zone’s initiatives and its exceptional growth in the past few years and expressed his delight in having SAIF Zone attend the event. “As the only international forum for leaders from the chambers of commerce of different countries, this event is perfect to network, discuss potential business tie-ups with businessmen and get an insight into the bestpractice experiences and new areas of innovation in the world of business from the distinguished leaders themselves”, said Saud AlMazrouei, director of HFZA and SAIF Zone, on the sidelines of the 9th World Chambers Congress. “Our free zones’ deliver beyond expectations and we were there to showcase our topnotch facilities to the diverse group of investors.— Agencies

Foreign investors capture 5pc Saudi shares RIYADH—Foreign investors in the Saudi stock market are holding 5.1 percent of the market shares, or SR108.9 billion compared to its market capitalization of SR2.12 trillion, according to a financial report. Shares of the foreign investors were distributed between “strategic founders” in the Saudi companies valued at SR83.7 billion (3.94 percent of the market capitalization of Saudi stock market) and foreign investments through mid-swap deals worth SR25 billion (1.18 percent of the market), the report filed and analyzed by Al-Eqtisadiah daily said. According to the report, foreign investors have shares in 166 listed companies whereas they are banned from investment in four companies, namely Taibah Holding Company, Makkah Construction and Development Company, Jabal Omar, and Knowledge Economic City, complying with foreign investment law, which bans real estate investment in the holy cities (Makkah and Madinah).—Agencies

Willingness to change is a strength, even if it means plunging part of the company into total confusion for a while.

— Jack Welch

Sindh eyes doubling tax revenue in 3 years: Murad that and added, “if informed about that we try and satisfy those who are criticising the provinKARACHI—Sindh Finance Minister, Syed cial budget”.

He said that in the Sindh budget for the fisMurad Ali Shah, Sunday said that provincial government was committed to provide maxi- cal 2015-16 a sum of about Rs 50 billion haf mum possible facilities to the people aimed at been allocated for the development schemes of Karachi. their betterment and welfare.

The Sindh government has allocated Rs. 2.5 He was addressing post-budget press conbillion for the ference at the K-IV scheme Chief Minister of Karachi.

House here.

The federal The Minisgovernment ter was of the has also promview that there ised a matchwas a potential ing sum for of doubling the this scheme. tax revenue in There is a prothe province vision of from the current Ramzan packfigures of Rs age in the pro100 billion in vincial budget the next three under which years.

1.7 million He said that families will be in the provincial disbursed a budget for sum of Rs 2015-16 the tax 1,000 per famrates had been reduced. When KARACHI: Sindh Minister for Finance Syed Murad Ali ily before Eid. To a his attention Shah addressing a post budget 2015-16 press conference at question, he was drawn to- CM House.—PO photo by Arif said that the wards a strike call given in protest against the Sindh budget, agriculture income tax was in vogue in the prov Continued on Page 14 he maintained that no reason had been cited for

STAFF REPORTER

Shahbaz reviews pace of energy projects STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif presided over a high level meeting here today in which the pace of implementation of energy projects in Punjab was reviewed in detail.

Additional Chief Secretary Energy Jehanzeb Khan gave a briefing regarding energy projects.

Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif while addressing the meeting said that elimination of energy crisis is necessary for the achievement of the targets of economic development. He said that Pakistan Muslim League-N government is taking serious measures for resolving energy crisis and work will be carried out speedily on energy projects in Punjab.

He said that the darkness of load-shedding will be removed from the cities and villages of the country. He said that work is being carried out speedily on solar project of 900 megawatt in Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park Bahawalpur. He said that Punjab government has made planning for setting up power houses of 1200 megawatt electricity to be produced with gas. He said that

a project of 300 megawatt with local coal is being established in Salt Range.

He said that Punjab government is also working on small solar projects throughout the province. He said that there is a capacity of generation of 800 to 1000 megawatt electricity with wind in Punjab and four sites have been identified for this purpose in the province.

The Chief Minister directed that timely completion of energy projects should be ensured at any cost. He said that completion of a number of energy projects till the end of 2017 will help in controlling energy crisis. He said that besides increasing production of electricity, energy conservation is also essential.

He directed that a comprehensive plan be evolved and presented during next two weeks with regard to energy conservation. Provincial Minister for Minerals Ch. Sher Ali, Additional Chief Secretary Energy, Secretary Mines, Chairman Punjab Power Development Company, Chairman PEDMIC, Chief Executive Officer Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park Bahawalpur, officers of NTDC and concerned officers attended the meeting.

Royal Enfield to ride on success of Dubai hub DUBAI—Popular Indian brand Royal Enfield 300,000 motorcycles and this year aims to manumade its debut in Dubai with its concept store and plans to tap the region through this gateway, a top official of the company said.

“Dubai is an important market for Royal Enfield as it is one of the most influential markets in the Middle East-South Asia region and is a global hub of business and transport. In addition to Dubai, currently, we export motorcycles to Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Kuwait,” said Rudratej Singh, president of Royal Enfield.

“Our ambition in the long term is to be a leader in the global mid-sized motorcycling segment. With 50 per cent growth every year for the last five years, we feel that consumers have several options in the commuter segment and also in the high-end segment,” Singh said.

“However, there are hardly any evocative, beautiful and practical machines in the mid-sized segment. We believe that Royal Enfield with its products will be able to offer a differentiated motorcycling experience to two-wheeler enthusiasts globally.”

In 2014, Royal Enfield manufactured

facture 450,000 units. In 2014, the company purchased acquired a new 50 acre plot at Vallam Vadagal in Chennai for future expansion and is setting up a third manufacturing base. The company is planning an investment of Rs600 crores (Dh333 million) for the current year.

“On the business side, Royal Enfield has had a phenomenal run in the past five years, registering 50 per cent year-on-year growth. Royal Enfield’s global ambition is to become the leader in the global mid-sized motorcycling segment. We are the world’s fastest-growing manufacturer and our growing sales numbers are and a strong order book are a proof of that. Royal Enfield is exporting to 50 countries now and during the past year, we have registered a growth of nearly 50 per cent in our exports markets as well,” added Singh.

Apart from having a very strong fan following in India, Royal Enfield is extremely popular and has a strong fan base across in its heritage market, the UK, and adjoining European market as well as in US and has appointed new dealers in Spain, France, Germany and Colombia.—Agencies

ISLAMABAD: Ambassadors of Romania, Japan, Nepal, Cuba, UAE, Iftikhar Ali Malik, Vice Chairman SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Zubair Malik, former FPCCI President, Rauf Malik and others on the eve of a brunch hosted by Malik Sohail Hussain, Chairman Coordination FPCCI.

UBG hosts brunch for Ambassadors

WB acknowledges Pakistan’s efforts for financial targets

ISLAMABAD—Finance Minis- ISLAMABAD—The United Business Group, peaceful country and always advocated the cause ter Ishaq Dar says the process of reforms in the energy sector will continue till the achieve-

ments of the desired targets.

He expressed these views during a meeting with the Country Director of World Bank in Pakistan Benmessaoud in Islamabad. During the meeting they discussed energy sector reforms and the policy with regard to the economic development in the country. The Country Director of the World Bank lauded the efforts of the government for achieving the financial targets.— NNI

(UBG) the largest alliance of chambers in the country Sunday hosted a brunch in honour of Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Deputy High Commissioners here to strengthen the trade ties and accelerate the economic activities in the region with special focus on durable peace in the South Asia.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman UBG and veteran trade leader Iftikhar Ali Malik urged the diplomats to take full advantage of special package of incentives offered by the popularly thrice elected Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif to attracting foreign investment in various sectors in Pakistan.

He said that there was a vast scope of foreign investment in power, IT, science & technology, health, agriculture, petroleum, textile sectors etc as labor in Pakistan is much cheaper than other countries of the world.

He said that private sector especially Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, an apex body of chambers in the country will fully facilitate the foreign investors under one window operation.

He said that Pakistan private sector will also fully welcome joint ventures in various fields.

He said that “Moody” has recently widely acknowledged significant improvement in Pakistan economy because of prudent economic policies being pursued under the sagacious leadership of Prime Minister.

Iftikhar Ali Malik said that Pakistan is a

of durable peace in the world without compromising its solidarity, integrity and sovereignty.

He said the region can never progress in any sphere of life in the absence of peace which he added is pre-requisite for development in South Asia.

He called upon the diplomats to play their role in help maintaining everlasting peace in the region especially in South Asia. He said that South Asia is home to 1\5th of the total population of the world laced with plenty of mineral, natural resources and deposits.

He announced that UBG will host brunch after every three months for all senior diplomats to cement bilateral trade ties among the private sectors of either countries on sound footings.

The Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Deputy High Commissioners prominent among them were from Japan, Nepal, Romania, South Korea, Denmark, UAE, Malaysia and Kyrgzstan.

The trade leaders who attended the event included Vice President FPCCI, Mian Akram, President ICCI, Muzamil Sabari, President Hazara Chamber Asif, Chairman UBG, Islamabad chapter Rauf Alam, Chief Coordinator, UBG and Chairman Media and Diplomatic Affairs, FPCCI, Zubair Malik, former FPCCI president, Zahid Maqool, Zafar Bakhtawari, former ICCI Chiefs, Khalid Javed, Tariq Sadiq, Ejaz Abbasi, member executive committee of chambers and Pervez Lala.—APP

Inauguration of Golf Club branch adds value to FWBL’s branch network AMANULLAH KHAN KARACHI—First Women Bank Ltd DA Country & Golf Club branch inaugurated

by Brig Zubair Ahmed, administrator DHA Karachi and his wife Mrs. Humera Zubair is bound to add both commercial and aesthetic value to the branch network of the FWBL. Brig. Zubair while appreciating the initiative of Tahira Raza for choosing the most prestigious spot for a new branch of FWBL while congratulating the bank’s leadership expressed his confidence that that the bank on the back of its outstanding customer services would serve the economy and contribute significantly to achieve the economic goals of the country.

Speaking on the occasion Tahira Raza, President FWBL said that the pur-

pose of establishing the branch was to provide customers a safe and homely atmosphere for banking. The branch is equipped with a specially designed locker room that is also accessible to the wheel chair customers, enabling them to personally handle their banking transactions and operate lockers with ease.

“We fully intend to consistently deliver our services, promise of being the right partner to our customers by provided even better facilities to our valued customers.

The branch will be offering a suite of products and services. FWBL may go a step forward in facilitating account holders by offering extended banking hours on weekdays and limited hours on Saturdays or Sundays, depending on their need, the FWBL chief assured.

Tahira Raza said that the new branch is a reflection of the Bank’s business growth and commitment to facilitate customers to serve them better.

First women Bank Ltd is a unique financial institutions, a scheduled commercial bank, the government of Pakistan owns majority shareholding of 72 percent in the bank while the remaining shares are held by the five leading commercial banks in the country.

FWBL has come a long way in providing innovative and personalized banking solutions since its inception in 1989.

It is important to note that FWBL’S doors are open to all, regardless of gender discrimination.

A large number of senior bankers, business community members, members of the Golf Club and the bank customers were present on the opening ceremony.

Trade unions demand re-nationalisation of KE STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—Hundreds of workers and trade union activists at “Anti-Privatization Conference” here have demanded of the government to cancel privatization of Karachi Electric Supply Corporation (KESC), now called K-Electric, because its privatization in 2005 had not only rendered thousands of workers jobless but the power consumers of Karachi are suffering heavily due to power shortage, load shedding and over billing.

The conference was organized by Anti-Privatization Committee of trade unions at Sindh Boys Scouts Association’s auditorium here on Saturday. The speakers expressed concern over the aggressive privatization programme of the present government and said it has to learn lessons of the past.

The speakers deplored that the

privatization in the past was actually a big below to the trade union movement as the number of workers associated in trade unions has declined drastically. Hundreds of thousands of workers were rendered jobless despite assurance at the time privatization that their job security would be ensured and they would get benefits.

But it happened opposite. The national exchequer suffered heavy losses due to plundering of the national wealth in the name of privatization.

Senior trade union leader and General Secretary of All Pakistan Workers Confederation Khursheed Ahmed was the chief guest of the conference. The speakers included Senior Economists Dr Kaiser Bengali, Najmul Hassan Atta, Karamat Ali, Executive Director, Pakistan Institute of Labour Education and Research (PILER), Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed of Peoples Labour Bureau, Abdul

Latif Nizamani of WAPDA union, Mohammad Ikhlaq of KESC labour union, Veteran trade union leader Habibuddin Junaidi, Razzaq Memon of Karachi Port Workers Union, Mirza Maqsood of Pakistan Steel Voice of Officers, Najmul Hassan Atta, Ashraf Bullo of PIA Sky Union.

Mohammad Ikhlaq of KESC labour union said at the time of privatization the workers were told that KESC’s new management would invest further. But the first company sold it to another company, which again sold it Abraaj Group, which is currently running the company.

The government signed an amendment agreement with the company in 2009 and due to that over 7000 workers was laid off. Pakistan People’s Party, which claims to be pro-workers political party, was in the government at that time,

but did not take any action to protect rights of workers. Because of that agreement in 2009 an amount of Rs.72 billion were written off, besides the government ensured that WAPD would provide 650-MW electricity to KESC for 5 years. This facility was expired on 26th January 2015, , but that facility is still continued.

“We were told that shares would be provided to the workers, but that promise was not fulfilled,” he said adding that they have recruited thousands of new workers on contract basis, most of them are untrained and inefficient. Due to their inefficiency 25 people lost their lives due to rains few years ago, he added.

He regretted that the workers of KESC did not receive any support from fellow trade unions. “We are still facing cases of terrorism in the courts,” he said.

He pointed out that Senate’s stand-

ing committee had declared that the privatization of KESC was bogus and plundering of the national wealth. That report is not taken seriously and the government has planned to privatise more public sector units.

Karamat Ali of PILER said the argument that privatization of the loss-making public sector organizations was essential on economic reasons. But the previous privatization of public sector organizations has proved that many industries were destroyed, closed down or resold after selling them at throw away prices.

About 80 percent companies were closed down, most of their lands or properties of those organizations were converted into commercial or residential estates, he added.

Ali pointed that a joint struggle was not launched when the first phase of privatization initiated in early 1990s. The

general public was also not included in the anti-privatization campaign as no voice was raised from people against privatization programme. “We need to provide alternatives,” Ali said adding that it is a fact that the companies under the state control pay 100 percent taxes, but the private sector often evades taxes and often indulged in frauds, profiteering and creating monopolies.

Veteran trade union leader Habibuddin Junaidi said before privatization the five major state-owned banks were employing 120,000; out of them were 80,000 workers, who were members of trade unions. Now only 10,000 workers are left as members of the trade unions. Employment is now made on the contract basis, workers are being paid less and they are forced to work for longer hours. In private sector the interests of owners are protected.

Currency

Selling Buying

USA

101.70

101.50

UK

157.85

157.54

Euro

114.54

114.31

Canada

82.83

82.67

Switzerland

109.04

108.83

Australia

78.80

78.64

Sweden

12.39

12.36

Japan

0.8237

0.8221

Norway

12.97

12.94

Singapore

75.64

75.50

Denmark

15.36

15.33

Saudi Arabia

27.13

27.07

Hong Kong

13.12

13.09

China

16.38

16.35

Kuwait

336.81

336.15

Malaysia

27.20

27.15

Newzealand

71.35

71.21

Qatar

27.94

27.88

UAE

27.69

27.63

Kr Won

0.0916

0.0914

Tsipras seeks debt relief A T H E N S /B R U S S E L S — Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said he was willing to accept unpalatable compromises to secure a deal with international creditors, provided he gets debt relief in return, something that Germany refuses to countenance.

With Greece heading towards possible default and bankruptcy, he told his negotiating team before it took a counter-proposal to Brussels that without debt relief he would say “no” to any settlement with the EU and IMF that isolate his country from the rest of Europe.

In little more than a fortnight, Athens must repay •1.6 billion to the International Monetary Fund with money it does not have.

Greek ministers arrived in Brussels on Saturday to resume negotiations with international creditors on a cash-for-reforms deal that ended in stalemate on Thursday.

The counter-proposal offering concessions on budget issues is designed to break the deadlock that is threatening Greece’s future in the eurozone. Tsipras, who was elected in January on promises to end austerity, made it clear he was willing to give ground but with strings attached that German Chancellor Angela Merkel is highly unlikely to accept.

“If we have a sustainable solution, regardless of how difficult the compromise is, we will bear the burden because the only criteria are exiting the crisis and the bailouts,” a government official quoted Tsipras as telling the ministers on Friday night before they headed to Brussels.

Tsipras used the term “sustainable solution” to refer to a long-standing demand for large parts of Greece’s mountainous debts to be written off — something he believes is vital if the Greek economy is to start getting back on its feet after a five-year depression.

Much of that debt is owed to Germany, the biggest contributor to Greece’s •240 billion bailouts. Any acceptance by Merkel that the money might never be paid back would almost certainly create uproar among the country’s politicians and taxpayers. Tsipras also signalled that without debt relief, he would reject any deal which isolated his country from the rest of Europe, such as the creditors’ demands for curbs on the right of Greek workers to bargain collectively on pay — something that union members elsewhere take for granted.

“If Europe desires the split and the continuation of subjugation, we will make the big decision to say ‘no’ and fight the battle for the dignity of the people and our national sovereignty,” he said.

Government spokesman Gabriel Sakellaridis gave more details on the negotiating stand, such as on the primary surplus, a budget balance that excludes debt repayments, and the creditors’ demands for yet more of the austerity that has already radically reduced Greeks’ living standards.

“The government seeks a solution which will include a debt relief, low primary surpluses, no wage and pension cuts, an investment package and restarting the economy,” he told Agora newspaper.—Agencies

Land acquisition process for Gwadar Port Free Zone completed ISLAMABAD—Gwadar Port Authority ment of heavy industries in the indus(GPA) has completed land acquisition process for Free Zone (FZ) and its execution is expected to start soon.

The funds for acquisition of land to be handed over to Concession Holder for establishment of FZ has been provided through Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) as with FZ development the port throughout in trans shipments, export and import will enhance significantly.

The same time the Company is going to establish a large Exhibition Centre adjacent to Port for display of Chinese and Pakistani products. This would be the first Zone in Pakistan, spread over an area of 9.23 sq km, adjacent to the Port.

According to a budget document, Gwadar port offers lots of opportunities to prospective investors. Chinese investors have taken keen interest in establishing Marine Silk Route and establish-

trial zone.

In this regard, Banks from China and Pakistan are working on concept of development of Special Economic Zones in Punjab and Balochistan and the investors, especially the Chinese, are planning to establish a steel mill and a cement factory in Gwadar.

Moreover, under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Gwadar Port is said to be strategically important to China because it will bring closer Middle Eastern ports to China through Karakoram Highway (KKH) linking Gwadar with Kashgar.

Under CPEC, Gwadar Port is considered as Gateway of CPEC, and Gwadar city as one of the pivot cities of the corridor.

The first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of CPEC is being developed in Gwadar city.

The government-to-government CPEC agreements have created bright prospects for optimum operationalization of Gwadar Port and harnessing the benefits of regional trade connectivity through this naturally deep-sea port by Pakistan, China, Central Asian Republics and Afghanistan.

To resolve the port connectivity with the highway network, “Gwadar Port Eastbay Expressway” project has now been agreed upon for funding under CPEC. The project has been approved by ECNEC at an estimated cost of Rs.14 billion and its execution has been started.

The proposed expressway will connect the Gwadar Port with the Mekran Coastal Highway, passing along the east bay of Gwadar City, with a total length of 18.98 Km, including 4.3 Km along -the-shore/ off-shore and 14.6 Km on -shore sections.

A rail link along this expressway is also part of the project.—APP

FPCCI expresses solidarity with armed forces against any external threat ISLAMABAD —The Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and its affiliated all chambers across the country Sunday expressed complete solidarity with Pakistan armed forces against any external threat.

President FPCCI Muhammad Adrees while talking to APP, said that the entire business community fully supports the armed forces. “We are proud of our armed forces and will continue to extend cooperation for successful operation of Zarb-e-Azb against militants”, he stressed. He asserted that the entire business community stands united against any external threat.

He said that conspiracies hatched against Pakistan by foreign elements will fizzle out.”With the grace of Allah Almighty our country will survive well”.

He lauded the services of armed forces personnel who sacrificed with their lives while fighting with terrorists.

Vice President SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry and veteran trade leader, Chairman United Businessman Group Iftikhar Ali Malik said that it was high time that the nation as well as all political parties boost the morale of Armed forces for eliminating terrorists from the region. “In prevailing critical situation we should stand united as a nation to face internal and external challenges.” He lauded Chief of the Army Gen Raheel Sharif for his determination against terrorism.He said in the presence of sagacious leadership of thrice elected Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif,no one can cast evil eye on Pakistan.—APP

Budget lacks short, long-term steps to alleviate poverty Punjab budget prefers roads, mega projects over social sector ISLAMABAD—The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Sunday said that ruling elite has presented a budget made to benefit the oppressive class which lacks any initiative to lift people out of abject poverty.

The federal budget will increase the exploitation of the masses as our economic managers who are best at creative accounting are unaware of the ground realities and lack any ability to take short and long-term measures to alleviate poverty, it said.

The budget is repetition of the failed economic model focusing on costly loans to boost forex reserves to beat drums of success, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President PEW. He said that forex reserves cannot be called stable because they are based on loans while the real source to earn foreign exchange are exports which are steadily falling due to disabling environment.

Economic managers continue to praise themselves for reduced budget deficit which is result of slide in international oil prices, he said.

Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that a country like Pakistan fully dependent on loans to survive cannot afford symbolic projects like metro buses, the costliest in the world.

Motorways and metro bus projects have nothing to do with development and everything to do with the ego of rulers. The metro projects have divided cities, destroyed businesses and damaged the beauty of cities.

Government continue to discourage any improvement in the dysfunctional tax system so that they can enjoy princely living and the five percent nobility has more money than the remaining 95 percent.

He said that Punjab budget has preferred roads and mega projects over social sector which is disappointing.—INP

Women empowerment initiatives in Punjab budget lauded ISLAMABAD—Chairman of the United International Group Mian Shahid has lauded the women empowerment initiatives in the Rs Rs1.447 trillion Punjab budget 2015-16.

Fifteen percent quota in government jobs and age relaxation will empower women which is a historic decision, he said.

Talking to founder president IWCCI Samina Fazil, he said that women will feel confident and empowered by the decision of Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif.

He also appreciated provincial finance minister Dr. Ayesha Ghous Pasha and asked her to keep women empowerment on priority to fulfil aspirations of over 50 percent population of the country.

Mian Shahid also lauded the increased allocation for education, health, energy and infrastructure which will unleash an era of development to contain unemployment.

He asked other provinces to initiate women

empowerment initiatives and prefer provision of subsidy to farmers and clean drinking water.

The budget was in line with the Punjab Growth Strategy which aims to bring provincial economic growth up to 7-8 percent by 2018 and create one million new jobs, he said.

At the occasion, Samina Fazil, said that Punjab budget is encouraging which will generate economic activity.

Women entrepreneurs can climb ladder of success if they are supported by the government which amounts to supporting future generations.

Women deserve opportunities to transform their potential into profit which is one of the best investments for the future of Pakistan, she said.

Samina Fazil said that majority of the business community feel that a huge budget is needed to empower women and bring them into mainstream which is incorrect.—NNI

PC sales in ME, Africa region drop 9.6pc DUBAI—Sales of personal computers in the lets and smartphones.

UAE and the rest of the Middle East and Africa (MEA) are slowing down due to weak consumer spending, according to analysts.

Low oil prices, currency fluctuations and slowdown in international trade and tourism, compounded by the ongoing political and social unrest in some parts of the region, are also causing the PC market to suffer a decline.

During the first quarter of 2015, around 4.3 million PCs were shipped to the region, reflecting a 9.6 per cent drop from a year earlier, while stocks from the previous months piled up, according to the latest market insights announced on Sunday by International Data Corporation (IDC).

For the whole 2015, the IDC expects that around 17.3 million units will be sold, which is still a 4.8 per cent decline from the previous year.

The market is forecast to remain “almost flat” between 2015 and 2019, while a shift in consumer preference is expected, as a growing number of consumers move away from PCs to tab-

“Currency fluctuations were one of the main causes of the market’s decline slowdown, with key markets such as Nigeria, Turkey, Egypt and Algeria all being hit,” said Fouad Charakla, research manager for personal computing, systems and infrastructure solutions at IDC. “Low oil prices have also had a negative impact on almost all parts of the region, with the extent varying from country to country. Inventory pile-ups from the previous quarter also caused the Turkey market to decline faster year on year, while ongoing political and social unrest in the rest of Middle East sub-region compounded the decline for MEA as a whole.”

Charakla noted that there is a “high PC inventory levels held by the region’s channels”, primarily in Turkey. “While this inhibitor was primarily only felt in Turkey during [the first quarter of the year], the impact is now expected to extend to many other parts of the region, including the UAE and the rest of Middle East sub-region,” said Charakla.—Agencies

KARACHI: SM Munir, Patron-in-Chief UBG and Chief Executive TDAP, Iftikhar Ali Malik, Chairman UBG and Vice President SAARC, Mian Mohammad Adrees, President FPCCI giving gold medal to Malik Sohail Hussain for his services to the group.

Pak-Japan talks to decide fate of Karachi Circular Railway project ISLAMABAD —Pakistan and Japan will hold talks on Monday to decide about fate of Karachi Circular Railway project worth $2.60 billion. A delegation of Japanese Development Agency, JICA, has arrived in Pakistan to hold meetings with Pakistani authorities.

According to sources and media reports, all the working has been completed regarding the project.

Japan has linked the provision of loan with launching of local project worth 10 billion rupees by Pakistan. Pakistan and Japan had already agreed to launch the project. Government of Japan has approved provision of 2.60 billion dollars loan for the project as well.

In past, due to complications, work on the mega project did not kick off. Japan had asked Pakistan to rehabilitate the affectees of Karachi Circular Railway project and pay compensation of 15,00000 to 20,00000 lac rupees to each family.

It also demanded to shift railway track and boundary wall be constructed around the site of project.—Online

KP budget to be presented today P ESHAWA R —The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa budget for the fiscal year 2015-16 will be presented in the Provincial Assembly in Peshawar on Monday.

Provincial Minister for Finance, Muzaffar Said will present the budget at three in the afternoon.—INP

Emirates Global Aluminium plans to cut 4pc of workforce ABU DHABI—Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) on Thursday said it is cutting its workforce by four per cent as part of a strategic restructuring to reduce costs and boost operational efficiency.

EGA was created by the merger of two state-owned aluminium companies — Dubai Aluminium (Dubal) and Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Aluminium (Emal) — to create what was at the time the world’s fifth largest aluminium company with an estimated value of $15 billion (Dh55 billion).

The move, which would see around 250 support positions cut, is aimed at creating a leaner entity and increasing competitiveness as it looks to expand in the UAE and abroad, EGA said in a statement.

EGA is jointly owned by Abu Dhabi’s investment fund Mubadala and the state company which holds Dubai’s most high-profile assets, Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD).

“This initiative strengthens EGA by fully integrating and streamlining support functions across the company to continue supporting our operational success and positions us for further growth,” Abdulla Kalban, EGA’s managing director & CEO said in the statement.

Last month Kalban said EGA’s exports would fall to 77 per cent of its production by 2017 due to a rise in local demand.—Agencies

SAWAT: Provincial Minister for Irrigation Mahmood Khan inaugurating the irrigation channel at Bagh Dehri.

Sindh eyes doubling From Page 13 ince. There was an ordinance for that as well and some changes would be made in this ordinance.

Murad Ali Shah said that tax on services was minimum as far as provinces were concerned.

He said this was the third budget of the ‘awami’ government in the province with an outlay of Rs 739.3 billion with a deficit of Rs 12.7 billion.

Every effort would be made to try and overcome the budget deficit, he added.

He said that major portion of the budget receipt for the province came from the federal government.

The federal government had promised to give 421.3 billion rupees from the federal divisible pool during the current budget but it had been curtailed by Rs 22 billion in straight transfers.

He maintained that we would get Rs. 48 billion less from the federal government in the budget estimates.

In the Sindh budget for fiscal 2015-16 the revenue expenditure is to the tune of Rs. 503.3 billion with a major chunk for education which is 344 billion rupees, then comes law and order for which 65 billion rupees have been set aside while Rs. 57 billion have been allocated for health sector.

Rs 220 billion will be spent on the salaries of the provincial government employees, Rs 45 billion for the pensions and Rs 50 billion for local government.

Thus about Rs 320 billion will be utilized for the disbursement of salaries and pensions.

Murad Ali Shah said that an energy project of 100 mega watts would be completed at Noriabad this year and power would be supplied to Karachi.

For laying of transmission line, a transmission firm has been established. Work on laying of the transmission line is continuing.

He said Sindh government was playing a major role towards resolving the electricity problem of Karachi.

Various other energy projects would be taken up under the Public- Private Partnership (PPP) including Lakhra Coal with three projects of 100 megawatts each.

A project of wind energy of 100 megawatts would also be taken up besides five solar energy projects of 20 megawatts each. He said that Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) did not believe in shunting out any employee.

However, action was initiated against those employees who did not work in order to make them productive, he added. Murad Ali Shah said that disciplinary action would be taken against those who did not work adding that negotiation was continuing with the federal government regarding settling the electricity and gas bills so that there were no excess billing.

He informed that the total provincial development programme of the province would be Rs. 213 billion.

Qatar faces first budget deficit in 15 years DOHA—Qatar faces a budget deficit in 2016 for the first time in 15 years because of the oil price slump but pledged to forge ahead with huge spending plans as host of the 2022 Fifa World Cup. Qatar expects next year to run a fiscal shortfall of 4.9 per cent of GDP, the ministry of development planning and statistics said on its website, and 3.7 per cent in 2017. “The fall in oil prices that began in June 2014 was not anticipated,” said Qatar’s minister for development planning, Saleh Al Nabit. “If they persist, lower

oil prices will narrow the government’s fiscal cushion but our considerable financial reserves will provide an ample buffer.”

“Important capital spending plans will proceed.”

The projected deficit comes as Doha has earmarked spending plans of around $200 billion on massive infrastructure projects over the next decade.

These include a new metro system, a new port and even a new city north of the capital Doha.—Agencies

Turkey’s exports may fall in dollars ISTANBUL—Turkish exports in 2015 may be and the lira, remains grim, especially once below 2014 levels in dollar terms even if the overall volume is larger, Economy Minister Nihat Zeybekci said.

“There is a risk that 2015 Turkish exports will be lower than 2014 levels in dollar terms, even though in quantity terms we could export more than last year,” Zeybekci said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Turkey’s current account deficit narrowed less than expected in April, according to data released on Thursday, underscoring its vulnerability to a US rate increase and providing another concern for investors already worried by political uncertainty.

Investor sentiment toward Turkey — already soured by stalling growth and rising debt — was battered by Sunday’s parliamentary election. The ruling AK Party’s failure to win a majority raised the prospect of fractious coalition government.

Striking a conciliatory note, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday political parties should move quickly to form a new government, giving the beleagured lira some help.

But the overall picture for the economy,

the US Federal Reserve embarks on a tightening cycle. That is likely to prompt investors to divert more money from Turkey and other fragile emerging markets into the United States.

“The current account deficit remains the key weakness in the economy, making it particularly vulnerable amid the current political uncertainty and in the run-up to Fed tightening,” William Jackson of Capital Economics said in a note to clients.

“The deficit continues to be funded by portfolio inflows into the equity and bond markets, as well as borrowing from foreign banks. These tend to be relatively volatile.”

The current account deficit narrowed to $3.41 billion in April, the central bank said, from $4.9 billion a year earlier. But that was above the $3 billion deficit forecast in a Reuters poll.

The decline in the deficit was driven in part by a rise of gold exports, Jackson said, adding the trend was unlikely to be sustained.—Agencies

New Zealand beat England in 3rd ODI S OUTHAMPTON —Another closely fought game and New Zealand come out trumps to go 2-1 up in the series.

It was a convincing performance by the Kiwis. First they bowled well to restrict England and then the pair of Williamson and Taylor added a record 206 for the third wicket to shut the doors on the hosts.

England did try their best towards the end by picking wickets but it came a bit too late. The Britishers will be ruing the fact that they got bowled out with 4.4 overs left. Still it was a good fight shown by them and they will look to bounce back in the next match.

Tim Southee and debutant Ben Wheeler took three wickets apiece as New Zealand dismissed England for 302 in the third one-day international at the Rose Bowl on Sunday.

England captain Eoin Morgan made 71 on a ground where he averages 70.5 in eight one-day international innings.

And all-rounder Ben Stokes made a dashing 68 off 47 balls.

But England lost their last five wick-

ets for 14 runs, with 28 balls of the innings still left when Steven Finn was last man out.

Southee finished with three for 44 in 8.2 overs and Wheeler, replacing Trent Boult after his fellow left-arm paceman was ruled out of the rest of the tour with a back injury, an impressive three for 63 in 10 overs.

Left-hander Morgan, fresh from his blistering 88 off 47 balls in the second of this five-match series at The Oval on Friday, appeared to be heading towards his third ODI hundred at the Rose Bowl until he was bowled slogging at Kane Williamson´s off-spin.

Together with Joe Root (54), he put on 105 for the third wicket after England had lost two wickets for no runs in three balls to be 34 for two.

Morgan opted to bat first after winning the toss on Sunday.

It was an unsurprising decision given England had piled up a record 408 for nine during a 210-run win after being sent into bat in the series opener at Edgbaston, while New Zealand levelled the five-match contest at 1-1, al-

beit under the Duckworth/Lewis method, after making 398 for five at The Oval.

Alex Hales (23) became Wheeler´s first ODI wicket when he fended a delivery angled across him to Southee at second slip.—AFP

S COREBOARD

England innings: Roy b Southee .................................. 9 Hales c Southee b Wheeler .......... 23 Root b Santner ............................... 54 Morgan b Williamson ................... 71 Stokes b Wheeler ........................... 68 Buttler c Ronchi b Southee .......... 13 Billings c McClenaghan b Wheeler 34 Rashid c Guptill b Henry ................. 0 Willey c McCullum b Henry ........... 8 Wood not out ................................... 3 Finn b Southee ................................. 0 Extras: (lb 5, w 14) .......................... 19 Total: (all out) ............................... 302 Fall of wickets 1-34, 2-34, 3-139, 4-194, 5-227, 6-288, 7-290, 8-298, 9-300, 10-302 Bowling: ............................ O-M-R-W Southee .............................. 8.2-1-44-3 Wheeler ............................... 10-0-63-3 Henry ................................... 10-0-64-2 McClenaghan ....................... 8-0-67-0 Santner .................................. 5-0-30-1 Elliott ...................................... 2-0-17-0 Williamson ........................... 2-0-12-1 New Zealand innings: Guptill lbw b Willey ........................ 2 McCullum lbw b Wood ................ 11 Williamson b Willey ................... 118 Taylor b Willey ............................ 110 Elliott c Root b Rashid ................... 5 Santner c Root b Stokes .............. 21 Ronchi c Roy b Stokes ................. 13 Wheeler not out .............................. 3 Southee not out .............................. 5 Extras: (lb 6, w 12) ......................... 18 Total: (7 wickets) ......................... 306 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-36, 3-242, 4-249, 5-284, 6-290, 7-300 Bowling: ........................... O-M-R-W Finn ..................................... 10-0-55-0 Willey ................................. 10-1-69-3 Wo o d .................................. 10-0-48-1 Rashid ................................. 10-0-72-1 AGEAS BOWL: Ross Taylor attempts to play a paddle sweep during England Stokes ................................... 6-0-35-2 Root ...................................... 3-0-21-0 vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI on Sunday.

Muneer Dar XI maintain winning run K A R A C H I —Muneer Dar XI continued their winning spree by getting the better of Anwar Ahmed Khan XI 2-0 in the camp trainees under-16 hockey tournament at Olympian Iftikhar Syed Sports Academy.

Shahzeb and Sumam netted a goal each for winning outfit.

In another match, Munawwar-uz-Zaman XI defeated Habib Ali Kiddie X I by tennis score 6-1.

Shahzeb Zaman and Farhan shared four goals amongst themselves while Ammar and Mohsin scored one goal apiece.

Sarmad scored the consolation goal for losers.

The match between Habib-ur-Rehman XI and retired Brig M. H. Atif XI ended in a two-all stalemate.

Osama scored both the goals for Habib-urRehman XI while Mohammad scored twice for Atif XI. The semi-finals will be played on Monday while the final is slated for the following day.—APP

Malik to lead SSGC in Ramazan event K ARACHI —Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has been named to lead Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) squad in the inaugural Inter-departmental Ramazan Cricket Tournament being played at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad from June 19 to 26.

The squad also includes Test batsman Umar Amin who will be the vicecaptain of the team, young Test batsman Babar Azam and paceman Mohammad Amir, team coach Mohammad Saeed Asif said on Saturday.

Squad: Shoaib Malik (captain), Umar Amin (vicecaptain), Mohammad Amir, Babar Azam, Tabish Khan, Zafar Gohar, Mohammad Waqas, Usama Mir, Tariq Haroon, Akhtar Ayub , Wajid Ali, Atif Maqbool, Rajaesh Ramesh, Ashraf Ali, Fahim Ahmed, Mohammad Muzammil Nizam, Saifullah Khan Bangash, Faizan Khan, Osama Basharat.—APP

Zoya to face Muqaddas in National Women Squash final SPORTS REPORTER P E S H AWA R —Zoya Khalid will face Muqaddas Ashraf in the final of 6th National Women Squash championship here at Jan Sher Khan Squash Complex on Monday. Tournament which is jointly organized by the KPK Squash Association and KPK Sports Directorate has attracted to sixteen players from all over the country. Tournament carries one lac rupees prize money.

Un-seeded Muqaddas Ashraf of WAPDA made another upset when he sent packing the injured Riffat of ZTBL (Zari Taraqiyati Bank Limited) in one of the closest semi final played here on Sunday by 3-1 when Riffat surrender in the fourth game due to muscular problem while in2nd semi final, Zoya Khalid of (ZTBL) defeated her rival Madina Ashraf of SBGPL by 3-0.

Clash between tall and well built Muqaddas Ashraf against speedy Riffat Khan was a real thriller and it took almost 55 minutes to decide the fate of the match, Muqaddas was in full cry and her lofty shots with deadly drops kept Riffat busy to cover every inch of the court and it was Riffat and who took lead of 10 by winning first game at 11-7, Muqaddas who settled down with her stylish game and leveled the game score 1-1 by wining game at 12-10.

This was do and died game and now onward Muqaddas was in complete control of game and remain head of Riffat who had developed cramps in here leg and was facing difficulty to move but she was fighting with perfection in here returns, she was too quick to retrieve on every back court shots but it was again Muqaddas luck as she at the score of 99 collected two points in a row. Fourth game proved to be one sided as Riffat was completely off colour due to pain and retired at 1-5.

Zoya Khalid was too good to beat cool minded Madina Zafar by 11-6, 11-9 and 11-9. Score of the match is enough to tell the story of the game as it was a real thriller and both the top seeded players exhibited well before a select crowd and every point casted both hard labour, Zoya with some of beautiful back hand drives kept Madina Zafar all the time under pressure and was hitting hard especially here sizzling shot while Madina Zafar who was upset with the decision of umpire could not maintain rhythm and hitted tin time and again in dying stage of the game.

Madina showing sign of tiredness looks helpless on the some of calculated drops of Zoya and she was near to win the third game but she misfired twice and lost the semi final in thunders of applause.

LA SERENA (CHILE): Argentina’s Lionel Messi sits dejected in the back of the net after missing a goal attempt against Paraguay during their 2015 Copa America match.

Paraguay stuns Argentina at Copa L A S ERENA

(Chile)— Argentina’s dreams of a first major title in 22 years were given a reality check as Paraguay came from behind to snatch a last-gasp 2-2 draw in a Copa America classic.

English Premier league star Sergio Aguero and captain Lionel Messi looked to have put Argentina on the road to a routine victory in Group B after firing the tournament favourites into a 2-0 first-half lead.

But a long-range strike from Nelson Valdez hauled Paraguay back into the contest before Argentine-born forward Lucas Barrios grabbed a dramatic 90thminute equaliser. The stunning comeback left Argentina in shock and could complicate their route through the knockout rounds in Chile.—AFP

Jawad, Hamza win Pakistan Tennis Club Tournament Senior, Junior titles P ESHAWA R —Jawad Khan and Hamza clinched the trophies of the Senior and Junior categories of the Pakistan Tennis Club Tournament played here at its premises on Sunday.

Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tennis Association, Umar Ayaz was the chief guest on this occasion who witnessed the two finals. Secretary Pakistan Tennis Club Sami Khan, coach Pervez Khan, officials and players were also present.

In the Men singles of the Senior category Jawad Khan defeated Javed Khan by 6-3 and 6-4 while in the Junior category Hamza Khalid beat Raza Khan by 6-1 and 6-3. A total of 30 players took part in the tournament organized by the Pakistan Tennis Club, which was inaugurated by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Jinnah during in his visit to Peshawar in 1948.

The club is in dilapidated condition over the years and no attention was given it to renovate the old and damaged building.—APP

Aman Ullah Memorial Tennis

Saqib Umar, four others reach semi-finals PESHAWAR—Top seed Barkat Ullah, Saqib defeated Aamir Khan by 2-0, the score was Umar, Aqib Umar and Yousaf Khan took berth into the semi-finals of the Under-18 category of the ongoing Aman Ullah Khan Memorial Tennis Championship being played here at Tennis Courts of the Qayyum Sports Complex on Sunday.

In the first quarter-final, Saqib Umar defeated Shoaib Khan in a thrilling battle witnessed by capacity crowd despite hot weather in the afternoon session.

Saqib Umar won the first set by 6-1 and marched into victory in the second set by 75.

In the second match Aqib Umer recorded an upsetting defeat against seeded player Farhan Ullah at 6-2 and 6-3. Aqib Umar did not give much time to his strong rival Farhan Ullah in the thrilling battle, to strike back and thus won the match by 6-2, 3-6 and 6-4. Aqil Umar took the first set by 6-2 but failed to click in front of Farhan Ullah who staged a strong comeback by winning the second set 3-6 and succeeded in leveling the tally 1-1. It was the third and decisive set in which Aqib Umar defeated Farhan Ullah by 6-4.

In the third quarter-final Yousaf Khan

6-3 and 6-4 while in the last quarter-final Barkat Ullah beat Asad Ullah by 6-4 and 6-3 and moved to the semi-finals.

In the men singles top seed Shahid Afridi of PAF beat Shan Mehmood by 6-4 and 6-3 and moved to the semi-finals, Yousaf Khan recorded victory against Irfan Ullah, the seeded player, in a marathon 4-6, 6-4 and 63.

Yousaf had also qualified for the Under18 category, exhibited superb play against his rival Irfan Ullah in the hotly contestant encounter. Irfan also did strong resistance and even won the first set but failed to click in the remaining two sets won by Yosuaf.

It was the third quarter-final in which Iftikhar outclassed seeded Israr Hul by 7-5, 5-7 and 6-3 in another thrilling match. The match lasted for 2 hours with Iftikhar won the first set 7-5 and failed to click in the second won by Israr Gul. When the tally was 11 Iftikhar staged a strong come back and won the set by 6-3.

In the last quarter-final unseeded Abbas Khan beat Ayaz Khan by 6-3 and 6-0 and marched into the semi-final.—APP

FAISALABAD: Former MPA Rai Ahsan Raza giving trophy to player of winning team of annual kabaddi tournament held at Chak No.233 Hari Singh Wala.

2nd Test: Australian bowlers rip through West Indies J A M A I C A —Australia began the fourth pushed forward with a gap between bat

day at Sabina Park needing eight wickets to win the Frank Worrell trophy 2-0, and their fast bowlers ripped through West Indies with pace and unrelenting accuracy. The hosts lost 5 for 56 in the first session.

Mitchell Starc had accounted for Kraigg Brathwaite and Rajendra Chandrika in the first over of the innings late on the third day, and he struck in the fifth over this morning.

A full ball curled into Shane Dowrich after angling across him from over the wicket and brushed his front pad. Starc whipped around to appeal for lbw, not realising that the ball had gone on to hit off stump. He had figures of 6-4-2-3.

There was seam movement on offer in the morning and Hazlewood bowled an impeccable length around off stump, moving the ball just enough to constantly trouble the batsmen. Darren Bravo eventually pushed forward with hard hands, and the deviation off the pitch caused the outside edge to carry to gully, where Shaun Marsh stooped to take a low catch.

Shortly after, Hazlewood induced Jermaine Blackwood to play on to a delivery that nipped into the right-hander from a good length, and West Indies were 33 for 5.

The partnership between 21-year old Shai Hope and Denesh Ramdin lasted JAMAICA: West Indies’ Kraigg Brathwaite is bowled by Australia’s Michell Starc during the second cricket Test nine overs before Mitchell Johnson let between Australia and the West Indies at Sabina Park in Kingston. one rip from round the wicket. Hope

and pad and the ball cut in to hit off stump.

There was no resistance from Jason Holder this time; he fell clipping Shane Watson tamely to midwicket.

West Indies had lost 17 wickets in 93.5 overs in the Test and their captain Ramdin, unbeaten after 51 deliveries, was witness to their final slide.—AFP

S COREBOARD Australia 1st innings: ........................ 399 West Indies 1st innings: ................... 220 Australia 2nd innings: ....................... 212 West Indies 2nd innings: KC Brathwaite b Starc ........................... 0 R Chandrika c Marsh b Starc ............... 0 Bravo c Marsh b Hazlewood .............. 11 Dowrich b Starc ...................................... 4 Hope b Johnson .................................... 16 Blackwood b Hazlewood ....................... 0 Ramdin not out ...................................... 18 Holder c Starc b Watson ....................... 1 Permaul not out ....................................... 9 Extras: (b 5, lb 5, w 2) ........................... 12 Total: (7 wickets) ................................... 71 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-1, 3-20, 4-27, 5-33, 6-55, 7-62 Bowling: ................................... O-M-R-W Starc .............................................. 9-4-19-3 Hazlewood ..................................... 7-4-9-2 Lyon .............................................. 6-2-12-0 J o h n s o n ....................................... 7-1-19-1 Wa t s o n ........................................... 3-2-2-1

Kirby inspires England to 2-1 win over Mexico

Colombia shock France 2-0 at Women’s World Cup M ONCTON (Canada)—Colombia shocked France 2-0 for the first massive upset at the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Moncton on Lady Andrade gave Colombia the lead in the 19th minute and Catalina Usme padded the scoreline in second-half stoppage time.

Goalkeeper Sandra Sepulveda kept her side ahead with some superb play for 28th-ranked Colombia in their shock victory over No. 3 France. The win was Las Cafeteras’ first in a Women’s World Cup and came on the heels of a late-goal draw against Mexico in their opener last

Tuesday.

Colombia, with four points from two games, lead their group and seem set to advance to the next stage. They will complete Group F play against England in Montreal.

France, with three points, will finish against Mexico in Ottawa.

MONCTON, Canada: Colombia’s goal keeper Sandra Sepulveda makes a save against France during the first half of a FIFA Women’s World Cup soccer game.

Nadal beats Troicki to win grass-court Mercedes Cup STUTTGART (Germany)—Rafael Nadal de-

Both matches are set for Wednesday. Four years after quitting football because of severe depression, Fran Kirby scored the opener which kept England’s hopes alive in a 2-1 win over Mexico at the Women’s World Cup. Kirby, 21, scored in her first start at a major tournament after leaving the sport following depression triggered by her mother ’s sudden death.

The victory kept England’s hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds in Canada alive after losing their opening match to France 1-0, and sparked delighted celebrations among the England team.

Kirby, dubbed “Mini Messi” by coach Mark Sampson, found the net after 71 minutes, shortly after Karen Carney, who also scored with a late header, was introduced in front of the 13,000-person crowd at Moncton. “It’s pretty incredible to be labelled after such a great footballer,” Kirby said of Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.

The win puts England equal on three points with France, who were beaten 2-0 by Colombia earlier Saturday, with the South Americans leading Group F on four points.

Mexico have one point.

Kirby, who plays for her hometown team Reading, was the only player selected from the second-tier of the English Women’s Super League for the World Cup. She thanked the England coach for believing in her.

“It’s really great for me that he has that much faith in me as a player, and to put his trust in me to give me my first start is absolutely incredible,” Kirby said.—AFP

SEAGames: Tennis near-sweep as Thailand storm ahead

S INGAPORE —Thailand just missed out on a Southeast Asian (SEA) Games tennis clean-sweep as they powered that her Wimbledon build-up during the away from hosts Singapore coming week will help make her the hot- on the medals table on Suntest new young player on the tour day. again.—AP Warit Sornbutnark beat Indonesia’s David Susanto to win the men’s singles 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 and make it four titles out of five for the Thais at Kallang tennis centre.

Thailand also won the women’s doubles on Sunday, a day after claiming the men’s doubles and the women’s singles through Noppawan Lertcheewakarn.

But Philippines duo Denise Dy and Treat Huey stopped Thailand winning all five when they beat Peangtarn Plipuech and Sonchat Ratiwatana to win the mixed doubles.

Thailand also celebrated wins in rowing, wakeboarding and martial art pencak silat as they reached 85 gold medals, nine ahead of Singapore, by Sunday afternoon.—AFP

feated Viktor Troicki 7-6 (3), 6-3 Sunday to win the Mercedes Cup for the third time and claim his first title on grass since Wimbledon in 2010.

The top-seeded Spaniard, who had no aces in his semifinal win over Gael Monfils, ended the first set tiebreaker with an ace - his ninth. Nadal saved the only break point he faced.

Playing with evident confidence against the eighthseeded Troicki, Nadal converted his first opportunity to go 3-1 up in the second set and he served out the win in 1 hour, 27 minutes. ‘’I’m really, really happy.

It’s my second win this year and it gives me a lot of confidence,’’ said Nadal, after his 66th career victory and fourth on grass.

Nadal was made to work hard against Bernard Tomic and Marcos Baghdatis in the early rounds but improved as the tournament progressed and looks to be in good shape for Wimbledon. ‘’It was a great week for me,’’ Nadal said.

The 14-time Grand Slam winner maintained his unbeaten record against Troicki with his fifth win over the 28th-ranked Serb.

Meanwhile, Simona STUTTGART (GERMANY: Rafael Nadal of Spain celHalep, the world number ebrates after winning the final match against Viktor Troicki three from Romania, hopes of Serbia at the ATP tennis tournament on Sunday.

COLOMBO: Sri Lankan cricket captain Angelo Mathews (L) and Pakistan cricket captain Misbah-ul-Haq pose for photographers with the series trophy during a press conference.

New Zealand’s Boult out of England tour SOUTHAMPTON (United Kingdom)—New Zealand’s Trent Boult will miss the remain-

der of the Blackcaps’ tour of England after suffering a back injury, it was announced Sunday.

“Official: Boult out of the rest of the tour with a back injury. Will head home for further assessment,” said a statement on New Zealand’s Twitter feed.

The 25-year-old left-arm paceman was New Zealand’s man of the series in their 11 drawn Test campaign against England, taking 13 wickets at 24.84.

He also featured in the opening two fixtures of the ongoing five-match one-day international series.

Boult took an impressive four for 55 in England’s 210-run win at Edgbaston on Tuesday and two for 53 as World Cup finalists New Zealand levelled the series with a 13-run win under the Duckworth/ Lewis method at The Oval on Friday.

However, he was left out of Sunday’s third match in Southampton, with fellow left-arm seamer Ben Wheeler given an ODI debut.

Friday saw New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson also ruled out of the tour with a back injury.

The one-day series concludes with matches at at Trent Bridge (June 17) and Chester-le-Street (June 20) before England and New Zealand play a one-off Twenty20 international at Old Trafford on June 23.—AFP

Bangladesh grind out draw in one-off test vs India F ATULLAH (Bangladesh)—Bangladesh 2,000 runs and take 100 wickets on home

grinded out a draw after India offspinner soil in his 28th home test.

Kayes and Soumya Sarkar batted with Ravichandran Ashwin claimed a five-for to force the hosts’ follow-on during the fifth confidence until the former lost his paand final day of the rain-interrupted one- tience, charging Harbhajan needlessly to give away his wicket at 172-5. off test on Sunday.

Kayes hit a dozen of boundaries in his Ashwin returned figures of 5-87, his 10th test five-wicket haul, as Bangladesh 139-ball 72.

Soumya fell soon after, failing to deal was bowled out for 256 in its first innings — in reply to India’s 462-6 at Khan Shaheb with Varun Aaron who bowled with superb pace and aggression while Ashwin got Osman Ali Stadium.

A result was still unlikely with just 30 Shuvagata Hom on the stroke of tea to leave overs to be played. India imposed the fol- the side 219-7.

Litton showed much composure and low-on and Bangladesh ended the day 230 before bad light ended play 15 overs early. kept his side’s hopes alive of avoiding “Our approach was good ... but we the follow-on but Ashwin once again couldn’t apply ourselves properly,” said proved to be decisive and completed his Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim said. five-for, baffling Litton with a turning de“Most of our batsmen got the start but livery that got some extra bounce. Litton smashed eight fours and a six in his 44 couldn’t carry (on).” off 45 balls.—AFP For Bangladesh, opener Imrul Kayes top-scored with 72, his third test half-century. Newcomer Litton Das was impressive with his 44. India 1st innings: .. 4 6 2 - 6 Total: (all out) .............. 256 Soumya Sarkar made 37 declared Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-108, while Mominul Haque Bangladesh 1st innings 3-110, 4-121, 5-172, 6-176, 7scored 30. Offspinner (overnight 111-3): 219, 8-232, 9-246, 10-256 Harbahjan Singh took 3-64. Tamim Iqbal st Saha b Bowling: ........... O-M-R-W “Ashwin and Harbhajan Ashwin ........................... 19 Sharma .................. 7-0-24-0 are quality spinners, so Imrul Kayes st Saha b Ashwin ............... 25-6-87-5 watching them both bowl Harbhajan ....................... 72 Yadav .................... 7-0-45-0 together is very pleasing for Mominul c Yadav b Aaron .................... 9-0-27-1 a captain. They put batsmen Harbhajan ....................... 30 Harbhajan ........ 17.5-2-64-3 under pressure through- Mushfiqur Rahim c R. Bangladesh 2nd innings: out,” India captain Virat Sharma b Ashwin ............ 2 Tamil Iqbal not out ........ 16 Kohli said.

Shakib c Saha b Ashwin 9 Imrul Kayes not out ........ 7 After Bangladesh re- Soumya b Aaron ........... 37 Extras: ............................... 0 sumed on 111-3, Ashwin got Litton Das c b Ashwin . 44 Total: (for no loss) ........ 23 success in just the third over Shuvagata b Ashwin ...... 9 Bowling: ........... O-M-R-W of the day when he dis- Taijul Islam not out ....... 16 Yadav ...................... 2-1-4-0 missed Shakib, undone by Shahid c Dhawan b Ashwin ................... 6-2-8-0 an extra bounce.

Harbhajan ......................... 6 Harbhajan ............. 5-2-11-0 When he was on 4, Jubair Hossain run out ... 0 Vijay ........................ 1-1-0-0 Shakib became the first Extras: (lb9, nb3) ............ 12 Dhawan .................. 1-1-0-0 Bangladesh player to score

Porsche wins 24 Hours Le Mans race for record 17th time L E M A N S (France)—With Ger- driver Timo Bernhard and New to come back stronger and we’ve we’ll have to study and rectify learned a lot from this race.” man Formula One driver Nico Zealander Brendon Hartley.

“It’s been an incredible race, an Audi’s No. 8 finished fourth Hulkenberg behind the wheel, Porsche won the 24 Hours Le Mans incredible sports car race,” Webber ahead of Porsche’s No. 18.

Audi’s bad luck was summed on Sunday to end Audi’s five-race said. Porsche returned to Le Mans winning run and clinch a record last year after a 16-year absence in up when, with two hours to go, the 17th victory at the famous endur- the top category, but struggled be- No. 7 car, driven by Treluyer, went cause of a mechanical problem as to the garage for an oil change and ance race.

Hulkenberg was one of the Marcel Fassler, Andre Lotterer, and then had to come back straight three drivers in the No. 19 car, Benoit Treluyer helped Audi to vic- away to fix some loose bodywork.

“We were very competitive which finished ahead of No. 17 tory. This time, the Porsche 919 hyPorsche, featuring former F1 driver brids proved too dominant after yesterday, it went well for us on Saturday but things changed overMark Webber, and Audi’s No. 7 overcoming an early scare.

“There’s only victory that night,” Audi director Wolfgang car.

Audi had won seven of the past counts in this race ... Porsche de- Ullrich said. “We had a problem eight races, with Porsche’s last win served to win. Hats off to them,” with our bonnets, which never hapLotterer said. “We’ll do everything pened to us before. It’s something coming in 1998. “Thank you so much everybody, great effort over the last few months,” Hulkenberg said over race radio as he headed back into the garage waving to the flag-waving Porsche fans.

The 27-year-old Hulkenberg, driving in the race for the first time, will be back in action in a Force India car at the Austrian Grand Prix next weekend — his 85th F1 race.

British driver Nick Tandy and Earl Bamber of New Zealand were the other drivers in the No. 19 car.

“These are tears of happiness. I’m lost for words,” Tandy said. “I hope it’s the first of many. I grew up watching the race.”

Webber was partnered in the No. 17 by German MONTMELO: Jorge Lorenzo is followed by Valentino Rossi during the race.

back home.”

Shortly before the end of the race, Ullrich went into the Porsche garage to congratulate his rivals.

“It’s the end of a winning run for Audi, but we’ll be back next year,” he said.

In the jubilant Porsche garage, team members held up white Tshirts with the No. 17 written on them.

The 83rd edition of the race was held up again in the morning shortly before 8 a.m. (0600 GMT) when a safety car came out for the fourth time after Roald Goethe’s No. 96 Aston Martin crashed heavily and became the 10th car to retire from the race. The 55-yearold Goethe was conscious after the accident and then taken away in an ambulance.

Shortly before 7 a.m.

(0500 GMT) the No. 7 Audi rolled into pit lane missing a large piece of its rightside bodywork. The Audi team quickly took the car into the garage, but still lost seven minutes making repairs.

With Hulkenberg behind the wheel, Porsche started to build a comfortable lead over the No. 9 Audi driven by Rene Rast.

Porsche’s scare came with less than one hour of the race gone when Frenchman Patrick Pilet was caught in a crash.—AFP

Serotonin may not be a major factor in depression, study suggests

N

EW EVIDENCE has put into doubt the long-standing belief that a deficiency in serotonin - a chemical messenger in the brain - plays a central role in depression.

In the journal ACS Chemical Neuroscience, scientists have reported that mice lacking the ability to make serotonin in their brains (and thus will have been “depressed” by conventional wisdom) did not show depression-like symptoms.

Donald Kuhn and colleagues at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center and Wayne State University School of Medicine noted that depression poses a major public health problem. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 350 million people suffer from it and it is said to be the leading cause of disability across the globe.

In the late 1980s, the now well-known antidepressant Prozac was introduced. The drug works mainly by increasing the amounts of one substance in the brain - serotonin. So scientists came to believe that boosting levels of the signaling molecule was the key to solving depression. Based on this idea, many other drugs to treat the condition entered the picture. But now researchers know that 60 to 70 percent of these patients continue to feel depressed, even while taking the drugs. Kuhn’s team set out to study what role, if any, serotonin played in the condition.

To do this, they developed “knockout” mice that lacked the ability to produce serotonin in their brains. The scientists ran a battery of behavioral tests.

Interestingly, the mice were compulsive

and extremely aggressive, but didn’t show signs of depression-like symptoms. Another surprising finding is that when put under stress, the knockout mice behaved in the same way most of the normal mice did. In addition, a subset of the knockout mice responded therapeutically to antidepressant medications in a similar manner to the normal mice.

The researchers stated that these findings may be evidence that serotonin is not a major player in the condition, and that different factors must be involved. They concluded by suggesting that these results could dramatically alter how the search for new antidepressants moves forward in the future.

Another reason for pursuing nonpharmacologic methods of increasing serotonin arises from the increasing recognition that happiness and well-being are important, both as factors protecting against mental and physical disorders and in their own right. Conversely, negative moods are associated with negative outcomes. For example, the negative mood hostility is a risk factor for many disorders.

For the sake of brevity, hostility is discussed here mainly in relation to one of the biggest sources of mortality, coronary heart disease (CHD). A meta-analysis of 45 studies demonstrated that hostility is a risk factor for CHD and for all-cause mortality. More recent research confirms this. Hostility is associated not only with the development of CHD but also with poorer survival in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients.

A road in North Nazimabad is giving a deserted look during strike called by MQM against provincial budget.—Online

CTD arrests four target killers, arms recovered Rangers nab 11 suspects STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) arrested four target killers and recovered arms during a crackdown here on Sunday.

Responding to a tip of, the CTD conducted raid near Old Sabzi locality in Karachi during while four targets killer were nabbed besides recovery of arms from their possession.

The detainees including Khurram Shehzad, Mirza alias Ganja, Adnan alias Adil and Imran alias Lava were wanted by various police stations in more than 50 cases.

Participants listen to telephonic address of chief of PAT Dr Tahir ul Qadri during a protest rally from Nomaish Chowrangi to Tibet Centre against non-arrest of suspects of Model Town Lahore incident.—Online

Justice Amir Hani calls for swift disposal of cases CITY REPORTER KARACHI—Monitoring Judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, Justice Amir Hani Muslim, has directed that the police should be provided required resources to improve their performance.

He issued this instruction to the Sindh Home Secretary and other officers at a meeting he chaired at the Supreme Court’s Karachi Registry on Saturday. The meeting was called in order to speed up the progress of the cases in antiterrorism courts. Justice Amir Hani Muslim directed the IG Sindh police to ensure the provi-

sion of resources for investigaion. He further said that proclaimed offenders should be arrested and their cases be swiftly disposed of.

The meeting was informed that police’s investigation officers neither present Challan nor witnesses in the cases under trial in the ATCs, which causes delay in the disposal of cases.

The police officers told the meeting that they have shortage of resources which leads to delay in the disposal of cases. Sindh Home Secretary, ATC judges, Additional IG Karachi Ghulam Qadir Thebo, officers of Legal department and other officials attended the meeting.

The arrested culprits have been shifted to an undisclosed location for further interrogation and according to CTD important revelations were expected.

Law enforcement agency, Rangers, arrested 11 suspects along with weapons during raid conducted in Guru Mandir Patel Para area of the metropolis.

Two gang war members were encountered in Lyari while ASI Farhan was arrested in Defence area.

Law enforcers killed two gang war members in Gul Muhammad Lane in Lyari. The deceased criminals

were identified as Arsalan Ilyas alias Mulla and Mohammad Nasir.

A large cache of ammunition and grenades were recovered from their possession while the culprits were involved in target killing of 61 persons and various other crimes.

Moreover, ASI Farhan was arrested during raid in Defence area via vehicle tracing over charges of kidnapping for ransom. ASI Farhan is performing duties in surveillance cell of Airport Special Branch.

Meanwhile, Law enforcement agencies conducted a sting operation in Karachi area of Defence late Sat-

urday night and arrested a police officer in connection with an abduction case.

The arrested officer, ASI Farhan hails from police department’s Special Branch. He performs duty at Airport Surveillance.

The sources said the law-enforcers are interrogating ASI Farhan in connection with a case of kidnapping for ransom at an undisclosed location.

According to sources, the raid was conducted after clues were found during investigation into a kidnapping case.

Ramazan Package being given final shape CITY REPORTER KARACHI—Ramzan Package is being given final shape to provide relief to the consumers and sale of essential commodities at reasonable prices in the city.

This was announced by Commissioner of Karachi, Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui, on Sunday at a meeting in his office on the subject. He stated that such a package would be pre-

Admissions in KU

pared in accordance with the expectation of the people.

Siddiqui informed that the package is being finalized in collaboration with task force consisting of the representatives of civil society, traders, media and consumers’ organizations and associations, Bureau of Supply, CPLC, district officers.

It was pointed out that the package is being devised to give relief in prices of eatables to the people dur-

ing Ramzan in a realistic and genuine manner.

Stern steps would be taken against the profiteers during the month of Ramzan.

He said that prices be fixed with minimum margin of profit during Ramzan.

The meeting was informed that the Price Committee is taking measures to make the package peoplefriendly.

Appropriate action would be taken against those traders and shopkeepers found involved in profiteering.

The Commissioner asked the district officers not to allow profiteering at any cost and action be initiated without any discrimination.

Later, addressing a meeting the participants assured the Commissioner that they would extend every assistance in this regard.

61 shopkeepers fined for profiteering KARACHI—The city admin- them for profiteering and in payment of fine were sent teering during price checking istration during price checking of daily use items in different markets has challaned 61 shopkeepers, vendors and imposed fine of Rs 133200 on

overcharging.

Commissioner Karachi Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui in a statement on Sunday said that two shopkeepers who failed

to jail.

He said that 33 milk sellers, 5 chicken sellers, 3 fruit and vegetable vendors and 20 others were fined for profi-

in Korangi, Malir, Landhi, Shah Faisal Colony, Orangi, Garden, Civil Lines, Baldia, Ferozabad, Nazimabad and Model Colony.—APP

KARACHI—Karachi University Business School House Branch. Admission test would be held has announced admissions to MBA Executive programme. A University officials said on Sunday that admission form may be collected and submitted with Rupees 1000 fee from June 17 to June 25.

Admission forms are available at UBL Bank counter at Silver Jubilee Gate and UBL Main Campus branch Karachi University, UBL Nazimabad Chowrangi Branch and UBL PIDC

on June 28 at 10 am at KUBS. Merit list would be displayed on 2nd July while interviews would take place on 4 and 5 July, 2015 at 10 am .

List of successful candidates would be displayed in the department on 10th July, Successful candidates may submitted their admission form and fees 13th July to 16th July 2015.

Classes would commence from 25 July.—APP

Contingency security plan for Ramazan in city CITY REPORTER KARACHI—The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh, Ghulam Haider Jamali, has directed that an extra-ordinary security plan be devised for the month of Ramzan.

A police spokesman said here that the IGP further instructed that the implementation of such a plan be also ensured for the maintenance of law and order and protection of lives and property of the people.

The IGP also called for enhancing

contacts with Pakistan Rangers Sindh and intelligence agencies for exchange of intelligence information.

He said that every possible measures be taken for the security of mosques, Imambargahs, ulema and the people.

These security steps be undertaken in consultation with the managements of the places of worship and places identified by them be given priority.

Uniformed and plain-clothed police personnel be deployed and police patrolling be ensured at the required places.

The IGP further directed that adequate security measures be taken for industrial areas, busy shopping centres and other areas. Police picketing, patrolling and snap checking be carried out and action against criminals be intensified.

Police commandos, special branch officials be deployed for security of sensitive installation, important government and private buildings, offices, consulates, airports, railway stations and other public places. The IGP also called for ensuring the smooth flow of traffic during the rush hours.

Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan inaugurating Mega Pre-Ramazan Exhibition, 2015, at a local hotel.—PO photo by Arif

Serotonin may not be a major factor in depression, study suggests NEW EVIDENCE has put into doubt the longstanding belief that a deficiency in serotonin a chemical messenger in the brain - plays a central role in depression. In the journal ACS Chemical Neuroscience, scientists have reported that mice lacking the ability to make serotonin in their brains (and thus will have been “depressed” by conventional wisdom) did not show depression-like symptoms.

Donald Kuhn and colleagues at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center and Wayne State University School of Medicine noted that depression poses a major public health problem. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 350 million people suffer from it and it is said to be the leading cause of disability across the globe.

In the late 1980s, the now well-known antidepressant Prozac was introduced. The drug works mainly by increasing the amounts of one substance in the brain - serotonin. So scientists came to believe that boosting levels of the signaling molecule was the key to solving depression. Based on this idea, many other drugs to treat the condition entered the picture. But now researchers know that 60 to 70 percent of these patients continue to feel depressed, even while taking the drugs. Kuhn’s team set out to study what role, if any, serotonin played in the condition.

To do this, they developed “knockout” mice that lacked the ability to produce serotonin in their brains. The scientists ran a battery of behavioral tests.

Interestingly, the mice were compulsive

and extremely aggressive, but didn’t show signs of depression-like symptoms. Another surprising finding is that when put under stress, the knockout mice behaved in the same way most of the normal mice did. In addition, a subset of the knockout mice responded therapeutically to antidepressant medications in a similar manner to the normal mice.

The researchers stated that these findings may be evidence that serotonin is not a major player in the condition, and that different factors must be involved. They concluded by suggesting that these results could dramatically alter how the search for new antidepressants moves forward in the future.

Another reason for pursuing nonpharmacologic methods of increasing serotonin arises from the increasing recognition that happiness and well-being are important, both as factors protecting against mental and physical disorders and in their own right. Conversely, negative moods are associated with negative outcomes. For example, the negative mood hostility is a risk factor for many disorders.

For the sake of brevity, hostility is discussed here mainly in relation to one of the biggest sources of mortality, coronary heart disease (CHD). A meta-analysis of 45 studies demonstrated that hostility is a risk factor for CHD and for all-cause mortality. More recent research confirms this. Hostility is associated not only with the development of CHD but also with poorer survival in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients.

Chinese mid-career diplomats appreciate CM’s efforts for uplift

The head of delegation of Mid-Career Diplomats of Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chinese Consul General and other members of the delegation during a meeting with Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. dard and said that a splendid tion while appreciating the steps taken taking commendable measures. The STAFF REPORTER programme is being implemented in by federal government and Punjab delegation while appreciating the tireLAHORE—The head of delegation of Lahore as well as the whole province government for improvement of less efforts of Chief Minister Shahbaz economy said that Chinese cooperation Sharif for strengthening of Pak-China Mid-Career Diplomats of Chinese in this regard.

They said that Punjab’s economy will continue for the improvement of relations said that the role played by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chinese Consul General and other members of is progressing and Punjab is changing Pakistan’s economy and the dream of Shahbaz Sharif in this regard cannot the delegation during a meeting with due to improvement in infrastructure, becoming Asian Tiger will be fulfilled. be stated in words.

They said that Punjab The delegation also congratulated Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad provision of quality facilities to the Shahbaz Sharif appreciated the steps masses and other development government’s direction is right with Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif on regard to improvement of economy completion and inauguration of Pakistan taken by him for the welfare of the projects.

The members of Chinese delega- and Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif is Metro Bus project in a record period. people and improving their living stan-

Work starts on Kidney, Liver Transplant and Research Centre SALIM AHMED LAHORE—Advisor to Chief Minis-

Visitors taking keen interest in photo exhibition titled “Spectacular Pakistan” organized by Government of Punjab, TDCP and PHA at Alhamra.—APP

Cheap, quality food items to be ensured during Ramazan SALIM AHMED LAHORE—Provincial Minister for Food & Chairman Cabinet Price Control Committee Bilal Yasin has said that Punjab government has evolved a coordinated strategy for continuous supply of cheap and quality edible items to the people during Ramazan-ul-Mubarak so that fasting people could not face any difficulty during this holy month. Instructions have been issued to district administration in this regard, he added.

He expressed these views while talking to consumers during surprise visits to different Sunday bazaars in Lahore today. TMOs Gulshan-eRavi, Shadman and Wahdat Colony also accompanied the minister. During his visit to Gulshan-

ter Punjab on Health Khawaja Salman Rafique has said that completion of ongoing development schemes and upgradation of DHQ and THQ hospitals is the top priority and in the next fiscal year, nine centers of excellence will be set up in different cities of the province while three billion rupees are being allocated for Pakistan Kidney & Liver Transplant and Research Institute Lahore for which Chief Minister had already allocated 50 acre of land at Bedian Road.

He said that target of provision of treatment facilities to mother and child and labour room facilities at 700 BHUs would be achieved within a

e-Ravi Sunday bazaar, weights and measures of some shopkeepers were not correct upon which immediate action was taken against Labour Inspector and issued showcase notice to him.

He directed Secretary Labour to immediately set right the matters regarding weights in order to avoid any complaint especially in Ramazan. Bilal Yasin also inspected Shadman Sunday bazaar where edible items were available in abundance at cheaper rates. On inquiring, consumers informed the Minister all facilities are available to them in this Sunday bazaar.

The Minister had directed to install new tents in Wahdat Colony Sunday bazaar on last Sunday upon which new tents have been installed in Sunday bazaar.

month which would be helpful to control maternal mortality rate.

Kh. Salman Rafique said that work has been started on the project of Kidney & Liver Transplant and Research Center at Lahore for which Chief Minister Punjab Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has already allotted 50 acres land at Badian Raod. He said that 300 million rupees were provided for hiring consultancy firm and other needs during current year while three billion rupees are being allocated for this project during 2015-16. He said that it will be a state-of-the-art kidney and liver transplant center.

Kh. Salman Rafique said that government is taking steps for provision of equal facilities of health in the province and mobile health units are being

purchased for providing medical facilities to the people of far-flung areas at local level for which one billion rupees are being allocated in the budget.

Moreover, projects of setting up of Institute of Urology & Transplantation at Rawalpindi, kidney centers at Multan and Bahawalpur, expansion in Multan Institute of Cardiology, establishment of children hospitals at Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur, setting up of Institute of Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery at Children Hospital Lahore and up-gradation of nursing schools to college level and nursing colleges to center of excellence are part of development budget of health for the year 2015-16. Kh. Salman further said that emergency department

of newly built institute of Neuro Sciences at LGH has been made functional whereas 290 million rupees are being provided for making the institution fully operational. He said that 60 million rupees have been allocated for establishment of central research lab at PGMI Lahore.

Moreover, 50 million rupees would be provided for the constructions of roads within the premises of LGH. He said that health budget 2015-16 would be a landmark in health sector development programme. Government has enhanced health budget from 121 to 166 billion rupees which is a historic step in Punjab and it will bring lot of improvement in healthcare delivery system in the province.

Peoples’ confidence in metro is a slap on face of its opponents STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—Spokesman Punjab government Syed Zaeem Hussain Qadri while commenting on the Press Conference of Ch. Pervaiz Elahi has said that those criticizing metro are enemies of the poor and the confidence of the masses on metro is a slap on the faces of the elements criticizing metro.

He said it is a reality that Shahbaz Sharif’s tenure is the tenure of transparency, progress and prosperity whereas

during the tenure of Q-League, a drama was enacted in the name of Parha Likha Punjab.

He said that development projects of Q-League in Punjab were example of loot and corruption. He said that Pervaiz Elahi cannot mislead the people through bogus figures. Syed Zaeem Hussain Qadri said that the defeat of Pervaiz Elahi in general elections of 2013 was a reply of the people regarding his competence and eligibility and he should believe that he will not get the opportunity to enjoy the power again.

He further said that Pervaiz Elahi is not forgetting his era of loot and plunder and tries to remain alive in politics through press conferences on different excuses. He said that Pervaiz Elahi’s tenure of loot of national resources is not hidden and every citizen is fully aware that government funds were distributed for personal interest during his tenure. He said that people have also not forgotten those who spent resources of Bank of Punjab on personal interest and set up their personal Deras in the name of community centers.

Dr Ayesha acknowledges contributions of TEVTA for technical education SALIM AHMED LAHORE—Provincial Minister for Finance Dr. Ayesha Ghaus Pasha has lauded the contributions of TEVTA to promote technical education and vocational training across the province of the Punjab. She said that it is impossible to provide certain job opportunities to unemployed youth of the province without spreading it. Chief Minister Punjab Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has given prime importance to train skilled manpower of the province of the Punjab.

TEVTA is on the right track to introduce demand driven short courses as per requirement of the industry. She was addressing while visiting the different stalls on the 2nd day of TEVTA Skills Expo 2015 at Skills Expo Johar Town. Chairperson TEVTA Irfan Qaiser Shaikh, Chief Operating Officer Jawad Ahmed Qureshi, President District Board of Management Lahore Sh. Muhammad Arshad, General Managers Abdul Qayyum, Hamid Ghani

Anjum, Akhtar Abbas Bharwana, Azhar Iqbal Shad and other officers were also present on this occasion.

Dr. Ayesha Ghous Pasha said that provision of job opportunities to the youth of the province are the priorities of the Govt. It is encouraging step that TEVTA is spending its major portion of development budget on students training instead of spending on brick and mortar.

Govt. has allocated sufficient budget for the promotion of vocational training for the current financial year.

Without promoting technical education and vocational training, economic growth is not possible.

Introduction of demand driven short courses are the need of the time which will give fruitful results and our industry will not only get trained manpower but also new job opportunities will be provided to trained manpower.

At this occasion, Chairperson TEVTA Irfan Qaiser Shaikh said that 60 national and multinational companies placed their stalls. Human resources committees of different com-

panies conducted on the spot interviews of 4125 students.

Moreover, different participated companies in this Job Fair collected 14328 CV’s and job applications of pass out students.

TEVTA pass outs were offered job opportunities by different companies.

As per report of these companies, there are 4225 jobs available in different technical skills. Conduct of Career Counseling Conference has given fruitful results because experts of various sectors shared their professional knowledge with the participants. He also briefed about the promotion of technical education and introduction of short courses.

He said that these short courses have been offered on the demand of local and overseas industries. Large number of students, parents and general public attended the job fair.

Renowned industrialists also visited the TEVTA Skills Expo both days and also appreciated the organization of skill mela in a befitting manner.

Punjab Finance Minister Dr Ayesha Ghaus being briefed about various items manufactured by TVETA, on Sunday.—DNA