e-Paper March 19, 2013

New dimension to bilateralism

Pakistan, Egypt sign five MoUs Zardari says Pak ready to help end Syrian crisis

Ishaq Dar can be consensus caretaker PM: Babar Awan ISLAMABAD—Former leader of Pakistan People’s Party, Dr Babar Awan has said that there can be consensus on Senator Ishaq Dar’s nomination as Caretaker Prime Minister.

Talking to media men here on Monday, Dr Awan noted that Ishaq Dar is a capable and honest person. He stated that if Ishaq Dar comes up as a candidate for heading caretaker setup, he would cast his vote in Ishaq Dar’s favour.

He further stated that after 20th amendment, the appointment of Governors on political basis is unconstitutional. —Online

PPP proposes 3 names for Punjab caretaker CM MUZAFFAR ALI LAHORE—Pakistan Peoples Party Punjab (PPP) has formally proposed three names for the slot of Punjab caretaker chief minister.

The nominees include former District Nazim Lahore Mian Amir Mahmood, renowned lawyer and human rights activist Asma Jahangir and Ex-Chief Secretary Hafeez Randhawa and all three names were sent to Chief Minister Punjab.

Talking to media‚ the opposition leader in Punjab Assembly Raja Riaz Ahmad said that these names have been selected on the basis of their impartiality and honesty.

Raja Riaz said that these names have been sent through a letter to the Chief Minister.

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ECP meeting reviews general elections process ISLAMABAD—A meeting of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was held here on Monday to review the issues ahead of the upcoming general elections under the chair of Chief Election Commissioner (ECP) Fakhruddin G. Ibrahim.

During the meeting, the Election Commissioner Sindh presented a report regarding delimitation of Karachi constituencies.

The meeting also reviewed progress of political parties’ intra-party elections.

Disgruntled leader of the PPP Ms Nahid Khan’s application for registration of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) was also included in the agenda.

Nahid Khan has filed an application for registration of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) as a political party with the ECP under the provisions of Political parties Order 2002 with her name as a president Continued on Page 7

ISLAMABAD—President Asif Ali Zardari has said that Pakistan is keen to build a close and strong relationship with Egypt and the two countries should work together closely for the common good of the Ummah and for peace in the region.

He was speaking at a luncheon he hosted in Islamabad on Monday in honour of the Egyptian President Dr. Mohammad Morsi. It was attended among ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari shaking hands with Egyptian President Dr Mohamed Morsi before their meet- others by Prime Minister Raja ing at the Presidency.

Pervez Ashraf , former Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, former Federal Ministers, Senators, former members of National Assembly and services chiefs. The President said Pakistan is keen to further strengthen relations with Egypt at all levels and in all fields. He said there ISLAMABAD —Air Commodore was great deal of goodwill be(Retd) Muhammad Mahmood Alam, Sitara-i-Jur’at (with Bar), a veteran of 1965 and 1971 wars and world renowned ace pilot of that prompted the security forces judicial complex that is usually TARIQ SAEED crowded with hundreds of law- including the Army come into PESHAWAR—The terrorists attack yers and other people coming for action against the intruders who at the Peshawar judicial complex their cases. They were inter- were overwhelmed by the forces which led to bomb blasts as well cepted by the security guards after hours of clash. as firing between the security present on the main gate compelIndependent sources said at forces and the attackers for ling the attackers to blow the ex- least six people succumbed to QUETTA—Balochistan Goverhours on Monday, eventually their injuries while around nor Zulfiqar Magsi on Monday ended with the killing of six Picture on Back Page thirty others including lawyers dissolved the provincial assempeople and serious injuries to 35 and policemen sustained seribly on the advice of Chief Minothers including lawyers and the plosive material playing hell in ous injuries. ister Nawab Aslam Raisani.

Policemen. A female judge was the area.

A female judge Kulsoom A notification has also been among those who sustained seIndependent sources as well Azam was also injured during the issued in this regard. According rious injuries. as some official sources said the fighting and was taken to Lady to the notification, Aslam The eyewitness and the Po- attackers were several and a few Reading hospital along with othRaisani will remain as lice officials said some terrorists of them managed to enter the ers for treatment. A security offiBalochistan’s chief minister till tried to enter the heavily guarded complex holding some hostage Continued on Page 7 PAF, after prolonged illness, the appointment of a caretaker breathed his last at PNS Shifa chief minister.

Balochistan Assembly be(Hospital), Karachi Monday. He came the first provincial assemwas 78.

Air Chief Marshal, Tahir bly to be dissolved ahead of the Rafique Butt, Chief of the Air general elections. Earlier, Chief Staff, Pakistan Air Force has expressed his grief on the sad de-

Terrorists attack Peshawar Judicial Complex

6 people die, 35 injured in bomb blasts, firing

College principal gunned down in Liaquatabad IRFAN ALIGI

KARACHI—Principal of DJ Science College Syed Sibt-e Hussain Jaffery was gunned down near Sindhi Hotel in Liaquatabad. The deceased was affiliated with Jafferia Disaster Management, an NGO. Following the murder of the Principal, angry protestors took to streets and blocked traffic movement Ancholi, Rizvia and other areas where Shia Muslims lived in majority. Majlis-e Wahdat ul Muslimeen had announced three day mourning on the sad demise of the principal.

Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah, asked the Inspector General of Police to submit a report on the murder of the principal and take steps for early arrest of the killers. On the other hand, a sub-in-

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1965 War hero M M Alam passes away

I SLAMABAD —The Supreme and it was up to the court to acCourt of Pakistan on Monday ordered that Rehman Malik be indicted for contempt of court.

During proceedings of the contempt of court case against the former interior minister, the apex court declared that the reply submitted by Rehman Malik was unsatisfactory and he had interfered in the proceedings.

The Supreme Court ordered that proceedings to indict Rehman Malik should commence after seven days. The attorney general was appointed as the prosecutor in the case.

Earlier, Rehman Malik informed the court that he had submitted an unconditional apology and left himself at the mercy of the court. Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry replied that an apology was a confession

cept it or not.

Rehman Malik requested that the case should not be adjourned till Tuesday as he had to travel to Uzbekistan. The chief justice asked Malik under what designation was he travelling to Uzbekistan.

Speaking to the media following proceedings, Rehman Malik said he has been stopped by the Supreme Court from travelling to Uzbekistan.

Meanwhile, Supreme Court (SC) has rejected new inquiry report carried out by Punjab Police in Badami Bagh incident.

During the hearing of suo motu case of Badami Bagh incident Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry remarked “judicial in-

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UN experts demand end to Israeli settlements

STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Former Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz recorded his testimony to Lal Masjid commission via video link from London on Monday.

According to details, Shaukat Aziz said that Lal Masjid issue had gone beyond the reach of civil administration, therefore, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain advised an operation.

He said that Ch. Shujaat, Ejaz ul Haq and Tariq Azeem from government were hold-

ing dialogue with Lal Masjid ad- solution the military operation ministration, but after finding no was launched.

When the commission asked if the interior ministry forwarded you any summary, Aziz replied with ‘no’, however, he added the operation plan was changing in accordance with the emerging circumstances.

The commission inquired if they asked them to surrender their weapons otherwise they would get killed; Aziz replied that he has no information about it because military authority conducted the operation.

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ately begin withdrawing its settlers from the Palestinian territories, UN experts told diplomats Monday, even as the new Israeli government appeared set to strengthen the hand of the Jewish settler lobby.

Israel must act to “immediately and without preconditions cease the settlement activity and to initiate a process of withdrawal from the settlements,” Christine Chanet told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, lamenting a “rampant annexation” of Palestinian territories. Chanet, of France, was presenting a re-

PML-N, JUP-N to cooperate in elections SALIM AHMED LAHORE—Senior Vice President Jamiat-e-Ulema Pakistan (JUP) Shah Muhammad Awais Noorani, Chairman Supreme Council Pir Ijaz Ahmad Hashmi and Central General Secretary Qari Zawar Bahadur called on Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif at Model Town Monday and discussed overall political situation of the country and matters relating to cooperation in general elections.

Agreeing on cooperation in general elections between Paki-

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Minister Aslam Raisani sent an Magsi to dissolve the provincial advice to Governor Zulfiqar assembly. Raisani advised the provincial governor to dissolve the assembly as per the understanding reached during his meeting the Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf on Saturday.

Meanwhile, political crisis in the province deepening with each passing day as confusion over the Q UETTA —The Balochistan appointment of caretaker chief High Court (BHC) Monday can- minister continues to persist. celled the notification of Maulana Speaker of the provincial assemAbdul Wasay’s appointment as bly has allotted opposition seats leader of the opposition in the to 23 members. Speaker had ear-

BHC restores Tariq Magsi as opposition leader

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MQM gains mileage by winning Gabols AMANULLAH KHAN

GENEVA—Israel must immedi- K ARACHI—Mutahida Qaumi

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Shaukat Aziz records testimony to Lal Masjid Commission

causes of the Muslim Ummah and its efforts for promoting regional peace and stability.

President Zardari said the two countries must work together to end the bloodshed in Syria and to find a peaceful solution to the crisis. Pakistan believes that Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty must be respected. He said outside interference would only complicate a complex situation and will have serious consequences for the neighbouring countries.

The drive for peace in Syria must be led and owned by the Syrian people.

The President said Pakistan is ready to play its role in finding a peaceful solution of the Syrian crisis. Meanwhile, Pakistan and Egypt have signed five Memo-

Governor dissolves Balochistan Assembly

SC orders indictment of Malik in contempt case

Stops him from travelling to Uzbekistan

tween peoples of the two countries and there is need to employ it for taking forward our relationship to new heights.

The President pointed out that the Muslim and the Arab world is facing great challenges and witnessing changes also. The global challenges and changes are also having impact in our part of the world.

Recently the Arab world has been witnessing the Arab spring.

He said at this difficult time, the Muslim Ummah must shun differences and forge unity. It is time for unity and time for following the teachings of our great religion, which preaches peace and amity.

He said Pakistan and Egypt are two important countries of the Islamic world. Pakistan appreciates Egypt for supporting the

Movement (MQM) has gained impressive mileage by winning the support of Gabol community, representing a huge population of Sindhi Baloch centuries old inhabitants in the province of Sindh in general and Karachi in particular.

The joining of MQM by Nabil Gabol especially at this critical point of time when the country is set to go to the polls would certainly have multi-di-

mensional impact especially in countering the negative propaganda of the critics painting the image of MQM as an ethnic party representing a particular community living in Sindh. In fact joining o people who hail from different communities will one on hand give a positive standing to MQM while it would certainly help creating and forging unity among different segments of the society.

In this regard the positive the positive conduct of MQM with the people within and outside

Pearl terror suspect held KARACH—A former senior militant who was allegedly involved in the murder of US journalist Daniel Pearl has been arrested .

A spokesman for the Pakistani Rangers paramilitary force said Qari Abdul Hayee, who is better known as Asadullah, had been detained in a raid in Karachi.

Asadullah used to be the chief of the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) group in the southern province of Sindh and is said to have been involved in several terror acts.

He was also “in the picture” about the murder of Mr Pearl in February 2002, the Rangers spokesman said, without elaborating.

Pearl, 38, was the South Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal when he was abducted in Karachi on January 23, 2002, while researching a story about Islamist militants.

A graphic video showing him being beheaded was delivered to

the US consulate in the city nearly a month later.

Pakistani police blamed Pearl’s kidnap and murder on a group of Islamic militants headed

by Ahmed Saeed Sheikh, who is also known as Sheikh Omar.

The British-born extremist was arrested with three others and convicted in June 2002 of Pearl’s murder.

Seven co-accused were sentenced in absentia, and two of them were later killed in encounters with the police.

Court documents said the men masterminded Mr Pearl’s kidnapping in an attempt to win freedom for al Qaeda members who were imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay. Omar and three others who were jailed for life lodged appeals that remain pending in Pakistan.

LeJ also planned a suicide attack on a hotel near Karachi

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MQM deserves appreciation because it helped in winning the confidence of the people in this metropolis which is dire need of a cosmopolitan culture to accommodate every one coming to this coastal city to earn bread and butter for their families.

Actually it is the need of the hour for every one to lend a strong support for creation of unity and harmony among the people in the larger national interest and for the sake of Pakistan. Speaking on the occasion

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TTP suspends talks with govt STAFF REPORTER P ESHAWAR —The Pakistani Taliban have suspended peace talks with the government, claiming that they are “not serious” in the peace initiative According to a private TV channel on Monday, the Tehrike-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan said that the militant organisation has suspended talks with the authorities and claimed that the army and government were not serious in conducting peace dialogue and talks.

Earlier last month the proscribed militant group, which has waged war against the state since 2007, had announced its willingness for conditional peace talks with the country’s top three politicians as guarantors for the dialogue.

PPP, PML-N played constructive role to keep democracy intact: Iftikhar PESHAWAR—Provincial Information Minister Mian Iftikhar Hussain Monday formally bade farewell to the local journalists at a farewell luncheon and highly praised their cooperation and support to the ANP led coalition government in Khyber Pakthunkhwa.

“I received the maximum cooperation and help from the journalist community of the province who did not disconnect their relations with him despite huge militancy related problems. I have no words to thank them”, he told the journalists while addressing them at the farewell gathering.

Earthquakes turn water into gold: study ISLAMABAD—Water in faults vaporizes during an earthquake, depositing gold, according to a model issue of the journal Nature Geoscience, Live Science reported here. The model provides a quantitative mechanism for the link between gold and quartz seen in many of the world’s gold deposits, said Dion Weatherley, a geophysicist at the University of Queensland in Australia and lead author of the study.

When an earthquake strikes, it moves along a rupture in the ground - a fracture called a fault. Big faults can have many small fractures along their length, connected by jogs that appear as rectangular voids. Water often lubricates faults, filling in fractures and jogs.

About 6 miles (10 kilometers) below the surface, under incredible temperatures and pressures, the water carries high concentrations of carbon dioxide, silica and economically attractive elements like gold. During an earthquake, the fault jog suddenly opens wider. It’s like pulling the lid off a pressure cooker.—APP

Leader of the house and leader of opposition in KP have kept alive their rich traditions by agreeing on a consensual name for the caretaker CM and expressed the confidence that the matter at the centre and in other federating units would also be settled amicably according to the constitution. For the first time in the history of the country, he said that leaders of the political parties were engaged in nominating the caretaker setup in the federation and the provinces as no such environment prevailed in the past, adding this all was made possible due to

the 18th amendment.

He did not agree that a deadlock persisted over nomination of the caretaker Prime Minister and expressed the hope that the matter would be resolved with consensus during the second phase when the matter referred to the parliamentary committee. It would be unfortunate if the matter was sent to the election commission, he said, adding, if the Chief Election Commissioner has to choose the final name for the caretaker PM slot why not the parliamentary committee does the same work.

He said both the PPP and PML-N had played positive and constructive role in keep the democracy intact and foiled all such attempts to derail it during last five years. He was confident that elections would be held on time and denounced all such speculations and rumors to this effect. If elections could be held in Afghanistan and Iraq where civil wars were going on why not in Pakistan, he added.

He also referred to the efforts he made for launching the province’s own TV channel “Abaseen TV” during last two years but all in vain as

the matter is still pending for issuance of license by the federal government. If the federal government issued the license, the KP government can put it on air in one month time as all the infrastructures in this regard was completed. He also mentioned about strengthening of the Information Departments across the province saying KP information department got the maximum attention of his government. KP FM Channel has been setup to convey the message of the government to every nook and corner of the province.—APP

PEF to provide 2 lakh kids gratis educational facilities R AWALPINDI —The Punjab Education Foundation has planned to provide gratis educational facilities to two lakh poor and deserving children in next five years under its public private partnership model. The purpose of this initiative is to open the doors of quality education to the economically deprived children especially the girls who couldn’t go to schools due to lack of resources and access.

Chairman, Punjab Education Foundation, Raja Anwar stated this while presiding over the district coordination meeting of various schools of northern region partnered with the PEF under its foundation assisted schools

programme, at a local hotel, on Monday. At the outset, PEF Chairman observed that public private partnership in the field of education has greatly helped the poor communities in Punjab as it catalyzed to break the shackles of poverty through quality education.

“It’s important to note that the foundation was already giving free education to 13 lakh deserving students in Punjab and 52 percent of them are females.” While underscoring the importance of promoting knowledge-based society for national development, he said that shouldering the educational expenditures of about 11 lakh deserving students in Punjab, un-

der the umbrella of FAS, is a clear proof of its huge success and service to the poor.

His also disclosed that Department for International Development of the United Kingdom has agreed to provide financial support worth 70 million pounds for a period of five years to the PEF for further extending the gratis educational programs.

PEF Chairman told that initiatives like anti-corporal punishment program, library books and co-curricular activities have helped to develop a confident generation of youngsters. He told that complaint cell has been set up in the FAS program to immediately solve the issues relating to the partners. He

announced that upper ceiling of A plus, A & B category FAS schools has been increased from 500 to 750 students while the upper ceiling of 750 has also been increased to one thousand students to accommodate the maximum number of deserving students.

Similarly, FAS partners are allowed to give admissions to deserving 5-16 years old out of school children and for this purpose, they are permitted to construct additional class rooms within three months. The DCM was also addressed by DMD-Finance Salman Anwar Malik, Director-FAS Nadeem Masood and Additional Director Iftikhar Rabbani.

TAXILA—Speakers at a function organized here said that only equipping youth with education salvage the country and it is high time that all out resources and opportunities should be provided to the youth, to save them from spoiling. The function was organized at Federal College of Science and Commerce at Wah Cantt to mark the annual day. Deputy District Officer Social Welfare Zafar Hussain Shah speaking on this occasion has said that education is the only catalytic factor that can change destiny of any nation and the young generation should equip itself with latest knowledge in the field of science and technology to make Pakistan a prosperous and progressive country.

Mr Shah said that it was unfortunate that the extremists and anti-social elements are showing the dark side of the picture, due to which some of the youth deviate towards sabotage activities , which is pushing them into the dark. He said that the entire nation would have to face these challenges and best way of doing so is that the country must educate its youth in befitting manner. He said that promotion of education was the only way for countering challenges like terrorism, religious extrem-

ism, poverty, illiteracy and unemployment. He stressed the need for doing everything possible to assist deserving and needy students to meet the cost of their education. He said Pakistan cannot go side by side of other nations in the global village if it does not give attention towards quality of education.

President Youth Welfare Society Asif Mehmood Malik speaking on this occasion expressed concern saying that at present only 1.8 percent of the national GDP is being spent on education. Unfortunately, even this limited budget is not well spent by the provinces. In the past two years, 11 per cent and 12 per cent of the allocated budget was not spent and underspending was equivalent to Rs17.78 billion and Rs23.21 billion in 2010-11 and 2011-12, respectively. In 2011-12, the unspent amount was more than twice the total spending of the federal government on primary and secondary education. He said that ensuring access to education to all children between the ages of 5 years and 16 years under article 25-A requires great political will, planning and resource mobilization.

Chairman Al- Falah education foundation Najzm Iqbal on this occasion said that that the promotion of quality education can bring about positive change in society.

Dry weather likely across country weather is expected in most parts of the country while partly cloudy weather conditions are likely to prevail in most parts of Kashmir during next 24 hours. Pakistan Meteorological Department reported that continental air is currently prevailing over most parts of the country. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, mainly dry weather is expected in most parts of the province, however light rain may occur at a few places of Malakand division during next 24 hours.

In Sindh and Balochistan, mainly dry weather is expected in most parts of the provinces while cloudy weather conditions with light rain is likely at few places in Gilgit Baltistan during next 24 hours. The Multan Met office has forecast partly cloudy weather for Multan and its suburbs during the next 24 hours. On Monday, the maximum and minimum temperature was recorded as 29.7 degrees celsius and 16.5 degrees centigrade, respec-

STAFF REPORTER P ESHAWAR —Managing Di-

QUETTA: JUI-F leader Maulana Abdul Wasay addressing a press conference.

Two shot dead for karo kari in Larkana NAZIR SIYAL L ARKANA —Honour killing has claimed two lives including a young school girl in Ratodero and another man was gunned in Larkana city on Monday morning.

According to details, Unknown armed men opened indiscriminate firing over Ahmed Ali Magsi at Lahori Mohalla rice canal Regulator in the limits of Waleed and Civil Lines police station. The incident is said to be an outcome of an old enmity. In the second incident nephew killed his uncle due to domestic dispute, told police.

A young girl Alia Abro (20) was shot dead in front

of her home and young man Zulfikar Ali Dayo was killed over Karo Kari at Motanpur Mohalla of Ratodero city, some 25 kilometres from Larkana.

The dead bodies remained lying at street in Ratodero city for several hours. The incident created a panic in the city. No arrest has been registered.

Meanwhile, ASP Ibrar Hussain, in a press conference, claimed to arrest a car driver and his accomplices, who kidnapped two villagers from Dhamrah police station jurisdiction, Larkana, late last night. He told that police cordoned off the area in Ratodero tehsil and arrested car driver Asghar Ali, resi-

dent of village Dakhan Garhi Yaseen tesil of Shikarpur district. The kidnappers abducted two villagers Mashooq Ali, son of Haji Mohammed Ramzan Shahani and Master Seengar Ali, son of Naban Khan Shahani of village Lal Khan near Dhamrah police jurisdiction late night and took them to Ratodero and Shikarpur district.

Later, the criminals car reached police picket and diverted to village Khatiyan near Mirpur and attempted to escape, but were arrested.

Driver Asghar Ali committed that it was his first abduction case, while his accomplices including Sheroo, Nadir Ali, Illahi Bux Dhahani escaped.

Urs of Hazrat Shah Ruknuddin Aalam begins MULTAN—The 699th Urs celebrations of great saint of sub-continent Hazrat Shah Ruknuddin Aalam began here on Monday. Vice Chairman Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf Mukhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Sajada Nasheen (spiritual head) of the shrine gave bath to the grave of Shah Ruknuddin Aalam with Arq-e-Gulab (rose water).

Addressing on the occasion, Mukhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi paid a tribute to saint Hazrat Shah Ruknuddin Aalam. He stressed the need for dissemination the teachings of great saint to promote peace, unity and stability in the country. He urged the people to follow the saint’s teachings in order to end.—APP

Kicked off PPP for differences with local PML-Q leaders: Fayyaz BASHIR AHMAD RAHMANI again intimated President Asif mud-slinging on the party According to police source, turning to their houses from Ali Zardari, Faryal Talpur and and its high command. Re- four bandits intruded into the school when the accused

H AFIZABAD —PPP ex-MPA other party leaders that he plying to a question, Haji house of Saif Ullah, son of bundled them forcibly in a car and ex-President, District Hafizabad, Malik Fayyaz Ahmad Awan who has recently dissociated from PPP and joined Pakistan Muslim League (N) has declared that he has no lust of power and he quit PPP due to his reservations over alliance of PPP with, what he alleged, Qatil League.

Addressing a press conference here, he said that he joined the PML (N) after resigning from MPA seat as well as primary membership of the PPP, without any condition.

He particularly referred to the local leaders of PML (Q) and said that he has time and

DR M RAMAZAN RANA

I SLAMABAD —Mainly dry tively. Humidity was re-

Swat tourism restored: MD rector Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Mir Shah Jahan Kithran Monday said that terrorism and law and order situation badly affected tourism activities in Swat. He said that after taking charge as Managing Director PTDC he took Rs. 130 million special grant from the federal government and restored tourism. Addressing a press conference here, he said that reconstruction and renovation of PTDC hotel in Malamjaba is hanging in balance after historic 18th amendment in the constitution, however, he added that a comprehensive plane is being chalked out to do work on it from the resources of PTDC. He further informed that PTDC Motel in Kalam has been opened for tourists and conduct of Snow festival in Malamjaba in collaboration with Pak Army was part of efforts to restore tourism activities in the area. Shah Jahan said that efforts are underway to construct PTDC motels on all important resorts in Swat to attract tourists. He said that PTDC was at the verge of collapse due to security situation in the country, but he has taken special grant from the federal government and put the department on its feet. Pak Army, PTDC hold ski championship.—APP

Education only can salvage Pakistan

could not go along with the local leaders of PML (Q). Replying to a question, that there was general perception in the city that he had joined the PML (N) to secure his seat as graph of PML (N) has gone up in the area due to failure of PPP federal government in the resolution of problems of masses, he said that there was no truth in the perception.

He said his father late Fazal Hussain Awan, MNA, and his family remained associated with the PPP since 1977 and they worked for the party honestly and with commitment and he did not want

Jamshed Abbas Thahem, General Secretary District PML (N) who was also present at the press conference said that it was his earnest desire that Malik Fayyaz should be awarded PML (N) ticket to contest election from PP-105 but added that final decision would be made by the high command. ***** Four armed bandits stormed the house of a villager in Mona Jhaal, locked all the occupants in a room and made off with cash amount of Rs. 25,000 and gold ornaments worth thousands of rupees.

Muhammad Mansha in Mona Jhaal and looted all the belongings of the poor villager. The police are investigating. ***** Two girl students of Panjhatha village were abducted by three youngmen of the same village forcibly.

The Kassoke police have registered a case against Babu Tahir Iqbal, Muhammad Ahmad Chohan and an unidentified youngman and are investigating. According to report lodged by Muhammad Nawaz, his daughter Kousar Bibi (14) and her friend Husseena Bibi (15) were re-

and sped away. ***** The local commuters have protested against exorbitant rise in the fare by the transporters in collusion with the traffic police and theThe fare between Hafizabad and Lahore is being charged at Rs. 200 against Rs. 106 fixed by the RTA. Similarly, fare between Gujranwala and Hafizabad is being charged Rs. 70 and Pindi Bhattian Rs. 80. The commuters have appealed to the DCO and SP Traffic to order remedial measures to provide relief to the commuters.

corded as 80 per cent at 8 am and 48 per cent at 5 pm.

Fair/ partly cloudy

weather has been forecast for Tuesday in the metropolis, said a weather report on Monday. According to the report, the minimum and maximum temperature is expected to remain in the range of 18 to 20 and 32 to 34 degree celsius, respectively. It said mainly dry weather is likely to prevail elsewhere in the region.

According to KP Met office sunny weather conditions are expected in most parts of the province in next 24 hours.

An official of the provincial Met office told APP here on Monday, mostly sunny weather is expected in the capital city.—APP

58 uplift schemes completed under DDP OUR CORRESPONDENT S AHIWAL —As many as 58 schemes were completed so far under District Development Programme to provide basic facilities to the public.

Overall 163 schemes were taken up in this programme with the cost of 418 million rupees. These schemes pertained to education, health, sanitation, provision of drinking water and roads.

District Coordination Officer Zulfiqar Ahmad Ghumman while reviewing the progress directed officials concerned to complete all pending schemes till 25th of this month which mostly related to roads and need only TST. Chairing a meeting in his office which was also attended by EDO (F&P) Saqib Ali Ateel and district officers of relevant departments, he showed his displeasure over the pathetic condition of main city roads and directed TMA to immediately repair these roads. He also directed levelling of the grounds of Zafar Ali Stadium and Quaid-e-Azam stadium so that sports competitions could be resumed using these facilities.

Widow shot dead over engagement dispute SHER GONDAL M A N D I B A H A U D D I N —A widow was shot dead over engagement dispute here on Monday. Reportedly, Afaq, a resident of Chak Mamuri in jurisdiction of Police Station Sadar, shot dead a widow namely Taj Bibi of the same village. Police reached place of occurrence and moved the dead body to DHQ Hospital for autopsy.

On complaint by son of the widow, police have registered an FIR under the relevant law and further investigation is in progress.

Meanwhile in another incident in Police Station Pahrianwali, one person was shot dead over a minor dispute. During a volleyball match at village Sethal a quarrel took place among the players. Some players opened indiscriminate fire as a result of which Ijaz died while two other were injured.

Police have registered a case against four accused including Shehzad, Afzal, Waqas and Bashir, residents of Sethal. Further investigation is in progress.

QWP activists join ANP Staff Reporter

PPP maintain’s strong roots in FATA: Fahad

I S L A M A B A D — P r e s i d e n t vation among the locals by P ESHAWAR —Noted political workers Peoples Lawyer Forum providing them opportu-

and activists of Qoumi Wattan Party (QWP), Khalid Bakhtiar Khan Umerzai, Arsala Khan Umerzai and Lali Jan Umerzai along with their families and supporters announced joining ANP here Monday. They announced their decision in a function held here in Chief Minister’s House. Those present on the occasion were included provincial joint secretary, ANP, Aimal Wali Khan and MPA Shakeel Bashir Umerzai. They welcomed the new entrants into their party fold and wore traditional red caps on their heads. Speaking on the occasion, joint secretary ANP, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Aimal Wali Khan said that their party is the representative of Pakhtuns. He said due to the great sacrifices of Bacha Khan and Khan Abdul Wali Khan, dynamic leadership of Asfandyar Wali Khan and Pakhtuns’ friendly policies of the provincial government had united Pakhtuns under the red flag of the party.

He said development schemes initiated during the present government has no precedent in past, adding ANP will not take rest till putting Pakhtun nation on the path of progress and development. Awami National Party Central President Asfandyar Wali Khan and Provincial President Senator Afrasiab Khan Khattak Monday strongly condemned the suicide attack on Judicial Complex here The two leaders, in a statement here, expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of lives in the incident, which was an inhuman act. They said that terrorists were killing innocent people after their failure on every front.

FATA chapter Shah Fahad Ansari has said that Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has strong roots in FATA and the PPP leadership had always raised voice for the rights of FATA. Talking to APP here Monday, he said that extension of Political Parties Act 2002 will provide an opportunity to the people of FATA to join mainstream political parties and make progress.

He said that for the first time people of FATA would freely engage in the political process and would play an active role in national development.

Shah Fahad said allowing political parties to take part in FATA politics would remove the sense of depri-

S Punjab Province top of PPP manifesto

ment of Japan decided to extend a grant of 183 million Japanese Yen (approximately US$ 2 million) to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan through the UNDP to support the electoral process in Pakistan. The grant will fund polling staff training, development of elections results management, and voter education and public outreach, a statement of Japan’s embassy issued here on Monday said. Through these activities, the project aims to strengthen capacity of the Election Commission of Pakistan and to enhance participation of the general public in the elections, including women and the youth.

The notes to this effect were signed and exchanged between Akira Kono, Charg‚

I SLAMABAD —Senator Maula Bakhsh Chandio Monday said that the Bhawalpur South Punjab Province was on the top of the manifesto of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). “PPP-led government has taken and would carry on all possible measures to settle down the longstanding demand of the people of South Punjab to create a new province according to their desire”, he told APP. Chandio stated that PPP laid the foundation of Bhawalpur South Punjab province on the day when this idea was floated for the first time at National Assembly’s floor and later on, a parliamentary commission on the formation of new provinces was constituted for giving real shape to the idea. The senator said that the Southern Punjab Province was inevitable and it would come into being sooner or later. He expressed the hope that the PPP would come into power again with a huge margin on the basis of its performance and good governance and would provide South Punjab’s people their legal rights.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Punjab president Mian Manzoor Ahmed Wattoo on Saturday said that the bill for the creation of south Punjab province will be presented in the Senate before March 16 and will also be approved by the National Assembly. “Those who oppose the creation of south Punjab province will face massive defeat in elections,” he said while addressing a press conference at the PPP Punjab Secretariat. He said the PPP alliance with the Pakistan Muslim League – Quaid (PML-Q) was moving positively forward. He claimed the two ruling coalition parties were prepared to field strong candidates for the upcoming general elections. “The PPP and the PML-Q will field suitable candidates to win seats.—APP

nity to choose their representatives themselves.

“Shaheed Zulfikar Alli Bhutto was the only leader of Pakistan who had visited FATA at Tehsil levels and tried his best to understand and resolve their issues”, he added.

He lauded the completion of constitutional term of the government and termed it as the collective achievement of the political parties.

He said that PPP-led government had promoted politics of reconciliation in the country.

He said that during the tenure of PPP government the democratic norms had taken roots while in the past democratic culture could BANNU: Students of Postgraduate College Bannu stage a demonstration against demolishing Ghazali Hostel. not promoted.—APP

Japan provides $ 2m to support ECP in elections 6 killed, three injured in separate incidents

I SLAMABAD —The Govern- d’Affaires of Japan to Paki- tion with other partners. He been sent to the provincial, stan and Marc-Andr‚ Franche, Country Director, UNDP, Pakistan.

Mohammad Afzal Khan, Additional Secretary, Election Commission of Pakistan was also present to witness the signing. In his remarks at the signing ceremony, Mr. Kono described that the next election would be another landmark in the history of democracy in Pakistan.

He continued that “it is essential that both the authorities and the people in Pakistan play their roles in order to make the upcoming elections credible, transparent and inclusive”. Further, he expressed his hope that this project will be effectively implemented by the Election Commission of Pakistan and the UNDP, in close coordina-

encouraged every stakeholder in Pakistan to work for credible, transparent, and inclusive elections.

By doing so, he stated, Pakistan can show to the world that the country has completed yet another stage of consolidating its democracy and he would like to see that today’s agreement will help Pakistan to achieve this goal. It was earlier reported that United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Pakistan handed over the first set of voter education material to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in preparation for the upcoming general elections. According to a statement issued here, Voter education kits including stickers, posters, t-shirts, caps, pens and badges have

779 graduates conferred degrees FAISALABAD—As many as 779 graduates of The University of Faisalabad (TUF) and University Medical & Dental College (UMDC) have been conferred degrees and medal during the 3rd convocation of the University held here.

Chairman Board of Governors TUF Mian Muhammad Hanif awarded degrees and medals to graduates of the University while Vice Chancellor University of Health Sciences Lahore, Maj.Gen. (R) Prof Dr Muhammad Aslam awarded degrees to the graduates. Mian Muhammad Rasheed Vice Chairman Board of Governors TUF and Prof Dr Zakir Hussain Vice Chancellor (VC) Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF) were also present on the occasion. Addressing the convocation, Mian Muhammad Hanif congratulated the graduates. He said, TUF was set up to help the common man to have access to higher education. The university will continue its services to achieve the objectives of quality and professional education, he said. Prof Dr Muhammad Aslam, Vice Chancellor, University of Health Sciences (UHS) Lahore while addressing the convocation, appreciated the services being rendered by Madinah Foundation in education and health sectors. He said that the University had rapidly grown in a short span of time. He appreciated performance of TUF and UMDC in the fields of research and development. While congratulating the graduates, he expressed his hope that they would utilize their skills and knowledge for the welfare and economic wellbeing of the people. Prof Dr Abdul Karim Baloch Pro Rector of the University briefed about the performance of the Institution and said that the University is imparting education to more than 2200 students in different disciplines including Health Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Management Studies and Arts and Social Sciences. Faculty and staff members who rendered dedicated services to TUF and UMDC for ten years were also awarded medals and prizes.—APP

SWABI—Two persons includ- firing.Ashraf was injured seri-

ing father and daughter were killed whereas wife and two children were seriously injured as roof of a house caved here at Jalbai village. According to details, Muhammad Ijaz s/o Lal Khan was sleeping with his family when pillar of a room collapsed and resultantly the roof fell down in the wee hours on Monday, killing father and five years old daughter Sonia on the spot. Three years old son Nasir and two years old Tanzeela sustained serious injuries in this incident.

Sargodha: Two young men were killed in separate incidents in Kotmomin police limits here on Tuesday. According to police sources that a farmer Muhammad Ashraf Dindar,resident of Mohalla Ahmed Khan was in his house when some assailants later identified as Abid s/o Nazar along STAFF REPORTER with their accomplices entered P ESHAWAR —The Peshawar and resorted to indiscriminate Electric Supply Company (PESCO) here Monday issued power shutdown notice for Peshawar and Mardan due to maintenance work.

According to a spokesman of PESCO, power supply will remain suspended from 132 KV Peshawar University’s KARACHI—US Consul Gengrid station on March 21 from eral Michael Dodman and the 8.30 am to 2.30 p.m and Sindh Governor, Dr. Ishrat Ul resultantly consumers of 11 Ebad, recognized fifty Sindh KV Circular Road, Academy students who received United Town, Abdarasirbagh, States Agency for InternaIgriculture, Achini-I.II. KTH tional Development (USAID)feeders will face inconve- funded scholarships under the Merit and Needs-Based nience.

Likewise, power supply Scholarship Program and will remain suspended from implemented by the Higher 132 KV Peshawar City’s grid Education Commission of Pastation on March 20 from 8 kistan. The Program provides am to 1 p.m and resultantly full scholarships to talented the consumers of 11 KV but financially needy PakiSikandar Pura feeders will stani students.

“Your academic success face inconvenience. From 132 KV Rehman Baba grid sta- inspires the next generation. tion on March 19 & 21 from 8 We expect great things from am to 1 p.m, the power sup- you–today I see future comply will remain suspected, munity leaders, inventors, resultantly the consumers of educators, business execu11 KV Ring Road feeders will tives, and parliamentarians.

The key to a strong, prosperface inconvenience.

Power supply will remain ous, and peaceful Pakistan lies off from 132 KV Haripur grid in your capable hands,” said station on March 18 from 9 U.S. Consul General Michael a.m to 3 P.M and resultantly Dodman, who spoke with 50 the consumers of 11 KV scholarship recipients from Khan Pur, KTS-I, SNK, Sindh after they described Shimla Project, Town-I, how the scholarship has enBaldher, T&T Colony feed- riched their lives and opened ers will face inconvenience. doors of opportunity.

The Merit and NeedFrom 132 KV Hussai grid station on March 19, 21, 23 from Based Scholarship Program 8 am to 2pm, power supply awards scholarships for uniwill remain suspected and versity study to academically resultantly the consumers of talented, financially needy Pa11 KV Ismaiala, Kalu Khan, kistani students. Overall, more Bakhshali, Shabaz Ghari, than 1,250 talentet but ecoMusa Khat, Rlustam, Karnal nomically disadvantaged PaSher, Yar Hussian, Dobian. kistani students have received

Shutdown notice

ously while the accused fled from the scene. He was shifted to THQ hospital in serious condition but failed to survive.

Quetta: A man was killed when a speedy vehicle hit him on National Highway near Nasirabad district on late Sunday night. According to police, the victim identified as Muhammad Arif was crossing the road when a vehicle hit him due to over speeding. As a result, he died on the spot. The body of the deceased was handed over to the heirs after completion of legal formalities. Police were looking into the matter.

Depalpur: Some armed bandits plundered cash, gold ornaments, weapons and mobiles on gunpoint here the other day. According to police sources, Muhammad Akram, Mushtaq, and five unknown armed outlaws stormed into the house of Muhammad Arshad R/O Awan Uttar.—APP

US, Sindh Govt honour scholarship recipients

Gas pipeline project to ensure prosperity I SLAMABAD —Provincial Information Minister Sharjeel Memon said that IranPakistan gas pipeline project would bring prosperity for the people of this region. He said that the government had made this agreement for the people of this region. Talking to a private television channel, he said that the government had taken many steps to maintain law and order situation and control terrorism. He said that NFC award was the achievement of the federal government. He said that floods played havoc in different parts of the country and destroyed the infrastructure. Sharjeel Memon said that despite global recession in the past years, Pakistan had made progress in different sectors. Kashmala Tariq of Pakistan Muslim League Hum Khyial Group said that there was need to focus on good governance to provide relief to the masses. She said that credit goes to all the political parties for the completion of the constitutional tenure of the government. She said that there was serious need to streamline the affairs in different sectors including energy. Senator Haji Adeel said that the government with the help of Army had brought peace back in Swat and Malakand areas. He said that the government after coming into power had to face many challenges like terrorism and floods. Replying to a question he said that Khyber Pakhtunkhawa government had spent huge amount for the establishment of new educational institutions in the area. He said that focus was also given to meet the demand in the energy sector. Rana Sanaullah of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz said that Punjab government made efforts for the welfare of the people of the province.—APP

regional and district field offices of the ECP to support them in their significant work of reaching out to voters.

Country Director, UNDP Pakistan Marc-Andr’ Franche said that this is a part of democratic culture, which in turn is crucial for sustainable human development.

He said that together with the ECP and other partners, UNDP is working to increase the number of voters in these elections particularly women, first time voters and minority groups. UNDP supported the ECP to train more than two hundred of its regional and district officers on voter education earlier this year. This is the first time in the ECP’s history that its officers have been trained on such a crucial issue.—APP

ISLAMABAD: Akiran Kono, Charge d’Affaires of Japan to Pakistan and Marc-Andre’ Franche, Country Director, UNDP, Pakistan exchanging documents after the signing ceremony held at the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Rs 1.45 crore released for 586 Zakat committees BASHIR AHMAD RAHMANI cation institutions.

HAFIZABAD—District Zakat and Ushr Committee has released an amount of Rs. 1,45,29,000 to 586 Zakat Committees as maintenance allowance to the poors, Ch. Nasruallah Bhatti Chairman said here.

He said that besides Vocational Training Institute Kolo Tarar, Sukheke, Pindi Bhattian and Hafizabad were provided Rs. 50,30,000 for providing stipends to the students, Rs. 4,20,500 for poor and deserving patients’ treatment in the DHQ Hospital Hafizabad, Rs. 1,35,600 for religious Madrissas and Rs. 10,91,800 for scholarship to poor students in 29 edu-

***** Villagers of Shori Chatha, Chak Kharal, Dohata and Khooiwala have protested against the indifferent attitude of the administration for not repairing the narrow and dangerous bridge on Sem Nullah which was linking these villages with each other and Hafizabad city. Led by Ch. Asif Chadhar, the protesters said that 30-year-old bridge is in dilapidated condition and has become dangerous for human lives. They said that they had submitted numerous applications to the DCO and members of assemblies for the past five years but they paid deaf-ear to their genuine demand. They de-

manded that either new bridge be constructed or the existing bridge be properly repaired to avoid any mishap. ***** An electricity transformer installed in Mohallah Dostpura near Soligin bridge was lifted away by unknown thieves resultantly electricity remained suspended for several hours. The dewellers taken out a rally to protest against the theft of the transformer and blocked the road near Ghora Chowk by burning tyres for more than one hour. The protesters alleged that WAPDA employees were also involved in the theft.

However, Incharge Traffic Police rushed to the spot and dispersed the demonstrators.

Merit and Needs Based Scholarships under this USAID program, with 571 of those students coming from Sindh.

The program targets students going to government schools in rural or remote areas like northern Sindh. Students can pursue study in agriculture (Master’s or Bachelor’s degrees) at one of the Sindhi partner universities, which include the Institute of Business Administration, Karachi; Institute of Business Administration, Sukkur; Institute SZABIST, Karachi; and Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam.

The scholarships fund not only the cost of tuition, but also books, transportation, and other expenses associated with full-time study.

Most of the scholarship recipients have found jobs within six months of completing their degrees.

The USAID Merit and Needs-Based Scholarship Program is just one part of a comprehensive U.S. education assistance program for Pakistan, which includes building or rehabilitating more than 850 schools; launching new degree programs in education at 90 teacher colleges and universities; and operating the largest Fulbright academic exchange program in the world.

Seminar on gender equality, poverty held KHAIRPUR—One-Day Seminar on “Gender Equity and Poverty” was held at Allama I.I Kazi Hall, Shah Abdul Latif University, (SALU) Khairpur on Monday, The seminar was jointly organised by USAID, Aurat Foundation and Institute of Gender Studies SALU, Khairpur.

Vice Chancellor SALU Prof Dr. Parveen Shah presided over the seminar.Prof Dr. Mohammad Nawaz Chand of Department of Economic SALU, was the chief guest, Syed Pir Mohammad Shah SSP Sukkur and Dr. Imtiaz Pirzada of Department of Economics University of Sindh, Jamshoro were honorary

chief guests.

Addressing the seminar, Dr. Parveen said that women comprising a big portion of the population around the globe have been deprived of economic development and socio-cultural spheres of the societal development. She said, in Pakistan the women’s access to property, education and employment remain considerably lower as compared to men and Pakistani society is predominantly patriarchal.

Women participation in society is low in percentage.

Dr. Parveen said despite the improvement of Pakistan literacy rate the educational status of Pakistani women is lowest in the world and the

literacy rate of urban women is more than five times than the rate of rural women. She further said, women are being recognised as the agent of change in the world arena and are entering and excelling in the field of education, economic development, politics and administration.

The V.C said that keeping in view the gender equity, the Institute of Gender Studies has been established at SALU, Khairpur aimed at assisting infrastructure development by establishing computer lab and introducing short courses for male and female students with special focus on female participation HYDERABAD: Rescue workers shifting a body of woman to civil hospital after it was in the society.—APP found in Indus River Latifabad.

The way they shift loyalties

MEDIA WATCH

No justification for tearing Iraq apart

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S general elections are fast approaching, political birds have started migrating to different directions ditching their mother parties ap parently for the sake of personal interests. The process started a few months back when some of the elected representatives resigned from their assembly seats and joined other parties but now it has gained momentum and expectedly the trend would continue in the days to come.

Individuals change political parties the world over mainly because of serious policy differences but this happens rarely and those doing so give cogent and acceptable reasons for their decisions. However, in this part of the world particularly in Pakistan political individuals change their loyalties frequently and without any solid reason, making mockery of the entire system. Ironically, this is happening despite verbal claims by almost all parties that they abhor the practice and in fact, change of loyalty or voting against party line attracts loss of the seat but the provision would take effect after the next election. However, despite all this, almost all parties are welcoming people from other political parties in their folds, which shows that neither such individuals nor the parties concerned have any respect for principles.

Parties have their own ideologies and manifestos and it is quite evident that those joining a party agree to its programme but ditching the party for finding greener pastures is unfortunate. Internal differences are also no exception as these persist amongst all parties and institutions around the world but if you believe in democracy then decision of the majority is binding on you. Leaving a party for personal, transitory or short-term gains shows that these individuals have no pricking of conscience and their only motive is moneymaking and enjoying perks and privileges. Obviously, the prime motive of welcoming such people is the search for electables but the practice is indicative of degradation in political environment and unscrupulous politics. We hope the electorate would take notice of the abhorring trend.

If oil rich UAE goes for solar power T

HE oil-rich Abu Dhabi on Sunday officially opened the world’s larg est Concentrated Solar Power plant, which cost $600 million to build and would provide electricity to 20,000 homes. The 100-MW Shams-I will save 175,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year, equivalent to taking 15,000 cars off the road.

The project is significant in that Abu Dhabi is the wealthiest of the seven states making up the federation of the United Arab Emirates and sits on proven oil reserves totalling 98.2 billion barrels, which are the world’s seventh largest besides having a large wealth of gas. The establishment of the plant, which is largest of its kind in the world, is reflective of the farsightedness of the leadership of the UAE as it is understood that traditional energy reserves are to deplete one day, however large they might be. This should also serve as a lesson for Pakistan, which is facing acute energy shortages now and according to the Planning Commission even if all power projects are completed within their envisaged deadlines, load-shedding in the country will still be there till 2019-20. One fails to understand what the Planning Commission and other relevant institutions have been doing over these years of darkness and why they could not plan for the future. Political expediencies and corruption apart, it is also a fact that different institutions set up exclusively for some specific objectives are not fulfilling their core responsibilities and as a consequence the country has to suffer. Besides Planning Commission that has become a mere tool in the hands of vested interests, institutions like Alternative Energy Development Board too have to be blamed for their inaction. To overcome energy shortage, Pakistan needs to develop its indigenous energy resources like hydropower, solar and wind. Pakistan lies in an area of one of the highest solar insulation in the world with potential to produce electricity, which could be provided to off-grid communities in the northern hilly areas and the southern and western deserts. We can also save significantly by introducing solar cookers, geysers and streetlights. All this will help in both reducing the import of fossil fuels and dependency of people on fuel wood, which in turn will provide some respite for the dwindling forest reserves of Pakistan.

Lahorites come to rescue of Joseph Colony T

HOUGH the unfortunate incident of Joseph Colony brought collec tive shame and embarrassment for the entire nation but it was denounced, openly condemned and people belonging to all sections of the society came forward to extend all the humanitarian assistance to the affected Christian community. Political, religious and social welfare leaders also visited the site and assured full support and cooperation to the uprooted poor people.

However what was more encouraging was that the large hearted Lahorites demonstrated their unparalleled sympathy and hospitality to the uprooted people, offered them all necessities of life including food items and a tent city was established to provide shelter. Religious leaders also came forward and played their role by emphasising that Islam is a religion of humanity and preaches tolerance, peace and mutual co-existence of all sects and communities. In the meanwhile, there were reports that the incident was the handiwork of land mafia under the pretext of blasphemy to get the area vacated and there is need that the causes of the unfortunate happening be investigated and truth brought to the notice of the public.

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif who visited Joseph Colony on Sunday made the welcome announcement that all the damaged houses will be repaired before March 23, the Pakistan Day, and handed over to the affected families so that they too could join the celebrations of the Day. While the Chief Minister deserves appreciation for helping the Christian community, there were many other philanthropists including the Real Estate tycoon Malik Riaz who had offered to rebuild the colony and extend other assistance. These types of noble gestures show how the people take care of those in distress and are hard proof of the bright face of Pakistan.

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Objectives behind India’s arms buildup across the border; they were probably from Pakistan”. Pakistan, however, rejected the remarks made R.K. Singh, stating Mohammad Jamil by that such statements could Email: mjamil1938@hotmail.com roil the spirit of the dialogue between the two countries. In a statement ndia is land of appalling pov issued on Wednesday, the Foreign erty, and also land of insurgen Office also rejected the statement cies. Instead of allocating for made by Defence Minister A.K. the social sector to alleviate the Antony in the Rajya Sabha accusmiseries and woes of the people, ing the Special Services Group of India is spending billions of dollars Pakistan Army of beheading two Inon military build up and buying so- dian soldiers on the Line of Control phisticated weapons from all over on January 08, 2013. the world. The twin objective is to Pakistan has called upon the continue repression on its people Government of India to carry out and to satiate its desire to dominate a thorough investigation into the the region. When people take up the incident before leveling such acarms against repression and the in- cusations which are counterprojustices of the Indian government ductive and serve no purpose. Unor if there is any incident of terror- fortunately, India is on a buying ism, India blames Pakistan without spree for sophisticated weapons investigating the matter. Recently and arming itself to the teeth with Indian Government has started in- the objective of dominating the sinuating Pakistan for its involve- South Asian countries and bement in CRPF camp attack in yond. India’s defence personnel Srinagar through a media cam- are involved in bribes and kickpaign. Two militants hiding auto- backs and accusing Pakistan of matic rifles and grenades in cricket attack on CRPF base is meant to kit opened fire on a paramilitary deflect the attention of Indian camp on the Indian side of Kash- masses from the above scandal. mir on Wednesday, killing five In- “Detectives raided the home of dian personnel and wounding five. India’s former air force chief S.P. Local media reports said that Tyagi on Wednesday as part of an Hizbul Mujahideen claimed re- investigation into alleged bribes sponsibility for the attack, in which paid to secure a $748 million conthree civilians were also wounded. tract for 12 Italian helicopters, Tensions have been running high in Central Bureau of Investigation Srinagar since last month, when In- (CBI) spokeswoman Dharini dia hanged Afzal Guru who was ac- Mishra said. The helicopter purcused of masterminding the attack chase came under scrutiny from on Indian parliament in 2001. In- Italian investigators looking into dian Home Secretary R.K. Singh allegations the group had broken alleged “prime facie evidence sug- the law by paying bribes to forgests that the militants who at- eign officials, leading to the artacked the members of the Central rest of Finmeccanica’s boss Reserve Police Force were from Giuseppe Orsi, who quitted from

News & Views

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his post after his arrest, denied any wrongdoing and his lawyer called his arrest “unjustified”.

Italian prosecutors suspect that kickbacks worth around 10 per cent of the deal, or 50 million euros ($68 million), were paid to Indian officials to ensure AgustaWestland won the contract, according to Italian media reports. Cash was allegedly handed to a cousin of the former Indian air force chief with more money funneled via a web of middlemen and companies in London, Switzerland, Tunisia and Mauritius. India has become the world’s biggest arms and defense equipment buyer in recent years and is expected to spend $80 billion over the next 10 years to upgrade its military. Arms deals in India have often been mired in controversy, however, with allegations that companies have paid millions of dollars in kickbacks to Indian officials. In the 1980s, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s government collapsed over charges that the Swedish gun manufacturer Bofors paid bribes to supply Howitzer field guns to the Indian army.

Following the Bofors scandal, India banned middlemen in all defense deals. The case is also a major embarrassment for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government, which has been buffeted over the past year by a string of corruption scandals ahead of national elections scheduled in the first half of next year. From the shady deals it is obvious that corruption in Indian defence forces is rampant, and to make more money senior officers make arms deals, which tends to escalate the arms race in South Asia, as Pakistan is forced to increase its defence budget to maintain the balance in the region. After signing civil nuclear agreement with the US, In-

dia is poised to acquire nuclear plants to enhance its capability to make more nuclear devices, and will have the capacity to increase from its current production capacity of six to 10 additional nuclear bombs a year to several dozen per year. India is to jointly build a surface-to-air missile with the second biggest weapons supplier Israel and hopes for such collaborations with the other countries.

In 2009, the USS Trentonn, the giant American landing platform dock, was inducted in Indian navy for which order was placed by India for Rs 215 crores in 2007. It was re-christened INS Jalashwa. The acquisition of the INS Jalashva was meant to enormously boost the sealift capability of the Indian Navy. It is equipped with four landing mechanised craft and can carry up to 1,000 troops along with vehicles, tanks, artillery, ammunition and tracked landing vehicles. India has also increased its defence budget, and is poised to spend at least $50 billion on installation of nuclear power plants, which will enhance its capacity and capability to increase it nuclear arsenal. In 2010, New Delhi had allocated $11 billion to build and buy six newgeneration submarines in what will be one of the biggest military contracts that India has signed. With these additions to the arsenal of India, the neighbors are likely to feel nervous, which will result into arms race in the region. All Saarc countries are wary of India’s hegemonic designs, as it has either dispute over land or over what is called water terrorism of India. In fact, India has become the source of instability in the region especially South Asian countries.

—The writer is Lahore-based senior journalist.

Pipeline politics Abdul Hadi Mayar Email: hadimayar@yahoo.com

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hile centrality of Iran-Pa kistan gas pipeline to the energy-starved Pakistani economy is beyond doubts, the timing of its inauguration seems intriguing. Just last year, the Finance Ministry announced that private investors were not ready to participate in the project and it could not be undertaken without taxing consumers or seeking financial assistance from Russia and China. In this situation, one is left guessing as what prompted the government to embark upon the project, particularly when it had already entered the last week of its tenure.

Ever since its inception, Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project has remained shrouded in controversies.

Initially, the project was proposed

by India, in 1989, to fuel its burgeoning industry with cheaper Iranian gas. It was at the wish of Tehran that Pakistan, from where the gas pipeline would pass, was also included in the project.

Those were the days when India-Pakistan rivalry was on its zenith due to the spiraling militancy in Occupied Kashmir. Islamabad was also not in good terms with Tehran as both sides had crossed interests in Afghanistan. The Shiite-Sunni strife was on the rise in Pakistan and even Iranian diplomats and engineers were killed inside Pakistan. Therefore, response from Pakistan was also lukewarm. However, Pakistan’s aggravating need for energy and continuing insistence from Iran necessitated signing of the deal.

Pakistan and Iran signed agree-

ment on the project in 1994. Similarly, Iran signed agreement with India over the project in 1999. Earlier, Iran announced in April 2008 to include China in the project and, in 2010, it also invited Bangladesh to join the project. However, the Indian decision to withdraw from the project in 2009 on security and pricing issues almost hamstrung the issue. Coming on the heel of opposition from Western and Arab countries, the deal seemed to have totally collapsed. Despite persistent demand from the Iranian side to undertake the project and announcement by the Russian energy giant, Gazprom, in 2012, to extend financial and technical support in laying the pipeline, the fresh UN and American sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program did not allow Islamabad to go ahead with the deal.

Pakistan has always enlisted the project as one of its major options for addressing its energy crisis.

However, despite its promises and repeated announcements, Islamabad never took any practical step to initiate the project. Tehran has been insisting for the last many years that it has completed its part of the project and it also offered financial assistance to Pakistan to lay its portion of the pipeline. In July 2011, the Iranian government announced that in absence of implementation, Pakistan will have to pay a penalty of $ one billion to Tehran per day till completion of the project for not meeting its obligations. Besides US pressure and the UN sanctions, there have also been several other factors, which have held back implementation of the project. During the visit of Saudi Deputy Finance Minister to Pakistan in April 2012, reports had appeared in media that the king-

dom had offered alternative projects plus financial assistance to Pakistan if it abandoned the project.

Rivalries between Iranians and the Arabs date back to the pre-historic Achaemenid and Sassanian dynasties of Iran. Both ethic rivals have always tried to edge out each other from the regional map of power game. This rivalry is persistent even today and neither Arabs nor Ajams [Iranians] are ready to leave ground to each other in the region. During the Afghan war, and more so after emergence of Khomeini factor in regional politics, this rivalry took a new turn and signs of the war of interests between the two sides can be vividly seen in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Apart from Saudi Arabia, other Arab states are also equally contributing to this conflict and one of its manifest shapes is the tension between Iran and the United Arab Emirates over Abu Musa and two other islands in Hormuz Straight.

However, while these international factors can be rubbished as hypothetical, there are certain palpable threats on the ground, which are hampering execution of the project.

For example, the Shiite-Sunni rivalries in Pakistan would never allow any such transaction with Iran. How will Lashkar-e Jhangvi and other Sunni extremist groups allow Pakistan to enter such deals with Iran? If these groups cannot tolerate Shiite pilgrims traveling to Iran, how will they allow an Iranian company to lay the pipeline in Pakistan? Let alone the Pakistani fanatic groups, the Iranian Jundullah outfit will also not let the project go scot-free.

Baloch militancy is also a potential threat to the pipeline project because Baloch separatist groups would never allow execution of

he invasion of Iraq 10 years ago this week triggered a bit ter civil war, which destroyed the fabric of the country, killed hundred of thousands of people, and embedded sectarian politics into the heart of the Arab world. The tragedy of Iraq is all the more poignant because all the reasons that US President George W. Bush presented to justify toppling Iraqi president Saddam Hussain turned out to be false.

At first, Bush blamed Saddam for supporting Al Qaida after the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon. In fact, Saddam had nothing to do with Al Qaida, and was brutal in suppressing any kind of radical Islamist activity. This did not stop the nest of neoconservatives in the Bush administration like Vice-President Dick Cheney and Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld from lining up Iraq as a target within a few weeks of the attack on the World Trade Centre. Bush then used weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) that Saddam was alleged to have as a justification for invading Iraq. For some time this was the dominant justification, and the Bush administration won a variety of UN resolutions that insisted that Saddam had nuclear and chemical weapons.

At various times, Bush also claimed that the purpose of the invasion was to promote democracy in the Middle East, and he added that Saddam’s terrible human rights record was another justification for regime change. But what finished any remaining credibility of America was the miserable failure to have any plan for the rebuilding of Iraq after the invasion. The State Department had planned to put in 50 Arabic-speaking former diplomats to ease the process of rebuilding Iraqi civil society, but all of a sudden Bush gave that responsibility to the Defence Department, which had no plans. As a result, Iraq had to endure the disastrous proconsuls of Jay Garner and Paul Bremer, who had no idea of that to do the with the country they were given. Sectarian politics took off, and the years of civil war started very soon after. The only people who have profited from all this are the American security companies and military suppliers, who made fortunes out of the billions poured into the US military effort in Iraq.

Ironically, one other entity that has benefited from the Iraq debacle was the Iranian government, which saw its major rival in the region destroyed by the Americans, and its proxies taking a dominant place in Iraqi politics. — Gulf News

***** any economic undertaking in Baloch areas, which can benefit ‘Punjab.’ Three Chinese engineers were killed in a massive bomb explosion the day Gwadar Deep Sea Port was completed in 2004, which was a clear message to foreign investors that Baloch militants are averse to such development activity in their area. Besides, if the government claims that RAW is involved in terrorist activities in Balochistan, then how the enemy would allow Pakistan to go ahead with such a gigantic project.

It cannot be expected that the government was oblivious to these stark realities. However, if it has ventured into the project despite that, it can more be a political move than a step of economic development. While on its exit course, and with no hopes for its return to power, the government, by inaugurating the project, in fact, wanted to cook a trouble for the next government, which it can cash in the days ahead. The move would more suit the government if predictions about Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz coming into power in the next general elections come true.

The new government, which will face serious economic problems, would risk relations with the United States, the international community and the Arab states if it goes head with the project. If not, Pakistan Peoples Party will obtain an issue to exploit and tell people that while its government inaugurated the project, the new government failed to complete it. The party has thus put such a burden on shoulders of the new government, which it itself could not carry for the last five years. End —The author is an Islamabadbased freelance journalist.

Grammar fools

T

here are few things more ag gravating, to a certain kind of mind, than a wrongly placed apostrophe. The seemingly innocuous punctuation mark drives otherwise calm people to fury. The latest battle in this long war is being fought on the South Coast, where Mid Devon district council has infuriated local grammarians by removing the symbol from all street signs. Beck’s Square will become Becks Square; St George’s Well will no longer belong to St George.

The Plain English Campaign has called the move “nonsensical”.

Councillors should have foreseen the row. When Waterstone’s became Waterstones, spoof pictures appeared on the Internet showing a homeless apostrophe, with a sign saying: “Will denote contractions or possessives for food.” It’s hard not to feel sympathy, though, since apostrophe misuse is so widespread, not merely on grocers’ signs but in professional writing. The council must have grown tired of seeing apostrophes where they were not called for and none where they were. Still, it is a defeat. Mid Devon has given up the punctuation struggle; another redoubt has fallen. Language changes, yes, but apostrophes are vital. After all, they’re the difference between “Don’t worry about dinner, I’ll eat our son’s” and “Don’t worry about dinner, I’ll eat our sons.” — The Telegraph Fine feathers make fine birds.

— Proverb

Pak economy at crossroad People who have been middle class who are now Shaukat M Zafar struggling to put food on the table are feeling an enorEmail: smzafar101@gmail.com mous amount of stress.

Things are going to get tough. The people don’t or the past five years of civil know what they are going to do. The rule, common man has fought poor households are selling everytooth and nail to gain better thing they possibly can – their living but every demand of common clothes, pots, and even their houses. man in this regard is met with stiff Their domestic relationship is beopposition from the capitalist ruling coming extremely strained. class at all levels. The economy is In fact, Pakistan is composed stagnant, with unemployment at of two distinct groups: the rich and record levels. Pakistan today even the rest. And for the purposes of lags behind Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, investment decisions, the second and Nepal. In every corner of the group doesn’t matter; tracking its country, a portrait of hunger has now spending habits or worrying over emerged. Food prices all over the its savings rate is simply a waste country are skyrocketing and many of time. All the action in the people are going hungry. Agricul- economy is at the top: the richest ture, the most important sector of the 10 percent of households earn as economy, has been severely affected much as the bottom 80 percent put by abnormal price hike of energy, together; they possess as much fuel, fertilizer, seeds and machinery. wealth as the bottom 90 percent; Across the country, the number and with each passing year, a of hungry and homeless people is greater share of the nation’s wealth rapidly growing. The unprecedented is flowing through their hands and recession has pushed millions of into their pockets. It is this segmore children into poverty. Tens of ment of the population, almost million children are “food insecure,” exclusively, that holds the key to and their parents often don’t know future growth and future returns. where the next meal will come from. Rest of the population is merely

F

consumers of their products. The capitalist political class has severally and collectively plundered the huge resources of the nation, while the poor masses go hungry, is no more news.

Rulers of Pakistan are responsible for all this. PPP has given nothing to people except for price hike, unemployment, loss of institutions, lawlessness, ethnic and regional conflicts, drone attacks and dead bodies during their five year rule.

Pakistan’s economy is severely disrupted by these devastating five years of so called democracy. With the collapse of a central authority and mounting regional and ethnic conflicts created by the PPP, the delivery of services collapsed, and the population was pushed to hunger and poverty.

The richest people are going home with a bigger share of national wealth than ever before, while the poor end up with even less; the taxation system is such that the poor — through indirect taxes — are subsidizing the lifestyle of the rich, who do not pay direct taxes on their assets. Any efforts to restructure the tax system fail because of political expediency in a fragmented parliament. The common man can not ar-

range two square meals for his family whereas the properties of politicians and their foreign bank accounts are increasing with each passing day.

The government is not improving public-sector efficiency and transparency and not at all ready to implementing a public financialmanagement-reform strategy and installing information-management systems, and developing and sustaining human and institutional capacity remains a challenge. It is depending merely on more and more debts from internal and external sources instead of some permanent policy formulation. In view of this dismal economic picture if this situation continues to persist then the day is not far when the country’s economy will go bankrupt making it impossible for the people to survive?

The country could be saved by getting rid of artificial and corrupt leadership. This country desperately requires excellent, positive and valuable leadership. The day it does; this country will improve within very short time.

Let’s pledge that we shall make efforts to perform our duties honestly and faithfully.

Existentialism and resistance Azam Inqilabi Email: mahazmediacell@gmail.com

E

xistentialism is a philosophi cal concept invariably seeking and stressing the assertion of subjectivity and egoistic individualism of a man in life. So subjectivity is the essence of existentialism. Subjectivity, if subservient to the Absolute Ego of God Almighty, is synonymous with ‘khudi’. Intuitionalism, the underlying principle of mysticism and sufism, is quintessentially a part of existentialism. So existentialism, the doctrine determining the dynamics of a mystic or a political movement, should be construed as a fountainhead of consciousness, which entails recognition of freedom and responsibility as indispensable part of subjective assertion.

Thus existentialism, as a vibrant doctrine of life, forms the cornerstone of the resistance movement in Kashmir. Existentialism, as a driving canon and lustrous lemma, will always remain juxtaposed to our resistance manoeuvre. And subjectivity in self-assertion and objectivity in appraisal and analysis will be concomitant. Necessitarian quietism helps in

attaining perfection in mystic introspection and meditation. However, in resistance politics, it turns out to be a quietus which benumbs the revolutionary ideas and emotions and paralyses the resolve to resist anything undesirable.

The doctrine of existentialism will continue to invigorate the resistance movement of Kashmir. In resistance politics it is the indefatigable will and resolve of an ideologue which perpetually revitalizes his sentiments and emotions and imbues and inspires him with hope and confidence to march towards the cherished goal of Azadi. Doctrinist Maqbool Butt, the resistance icon, was a proficient journalist and political genius overwhelmed by exuberant and ebullient love for resistance struggle.

Maqbool, as an adept and ideal militant strategist, could, through emphasis on the doctrine of existentialism, instil self-confidence and optimism into the hearts of his compatriots.

His leadership charisma, flair and finesse taught him to adopt all the viable modes of political manoeuvre and guerrilla tack and knack to facilitate rejuvenation, reinvigoration and reanimation of freedom aspirations and emotions of Kashmiris.

Failure of Operation Gibralter and

subsequent inconclusive Indo-Pak Sept. 1965 war proved an eye-opener for Maqbool Butt, who, as highly indoctrinated freedom ideologue, propounded the theory of a sustained indigenous and endogenous guerrilla warfare in Kashmir. So it was paradigm shift in the conventional mode of peaceful democratic resistance.

Adversaries who could not comprehend his philosophy of armed resistance would jeer, sneer and scoff at his militant demeanour.

Escapism and defeatist mindset of his adversaries could not deter him from darting into Kashmir in June 1966 along with his equally resolute companions maj.

Amanullah and Aurangzeb (alias Tahir). At Nadihal, Baramullah, there was an encounter with Indian security personnel; Aurangzeb died as a martyr and Maqbool was arrested and lodged in Srinagar central jail where ‘special court’, on Aug. 17-1968, passed a death sentence against him. However, his militant dexterity and adroitness facilitated his escape from the prison on Dec. 9-1968; and, after traversing the inhospitable mountains for 16 days, he along with his two colleagues reached Muzaffarabad on Dec. 25, 1968 to embark on a haz-

ardous task to emphasize his style of struggle with added resolve.

Simla agreement of 1972 which debarred Pakistan from providing any material help to freedom zealots of Kashmir and also the IndiraAbdullah accord of 1974 which symbolized Sheikh Abdullah’s cynicism and abject capitulation forced Maqbool Butt to re-assert with his existential militant doctrine. Thus Maqbool’s doctrine of existentialism and propensity for patriotic initiative made him feel restless. So he, while rejecting these ignominious agreements re-entered Kashmir valley in May 1976 to reorganize the revolutionary cadres here for a sustained armed struggle. He was again arrested and lodged in Tihar jail where he, after having faced every sort of ordeal, for long eight years, had to face gallows on Feb. 11, 1984 to become the proud protomartyr of Kashmir.

Our doctrine of existentialism, monotheistic introversion and indomitable volition and valour will inevitably make us emerge victorious in the protracted struggle for Azadi; Insh-e-Allah. No power on earth can force us to abnegate, relinquish and waive our right to self-determination.

We have reposed our trust in omnipotent Allah Almighty.

Views From Abroad

Is Iran ready for a deal?

Vali Nasr

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or the first time since 2009, there may be signs of a break in the deadlock over Iran’s nuclear program. Iran entered the latest talks with a slightly softened position. That is good news, but the United States will have to change its negotiating strategy to take advantage of it. Economic sanctions are biting hard in Iran. Meanwhile, its strategic position is crumbling because of the turmoil in its ally Syria and the rise of militant Sunni Islamism throughout the Arab Middle East. Together, these forces seem to have forced Iran to reconsider its own bargaining position.

So rather than strengthen sanctions another notch, America should give Iran a little tit for tat: begin negotiating directly, and put on the table the prospect of lifting sanctions, one by one, as bargaining chips. The United States should shift from trying to further intimidate Iran to trying to clinch an agreement. The sanctions have given America leverage, and we should use it to seek a deal

that would finally restrict Iran’s ability to make bomb fuel, rather than ratchet up the pressure in the hopes of getting either a broader deal now or a total surrender later.

The problem with just standing tough is that it is likely to backfire; Iran is understandably nervous, and if it thinks America is intransigent, it might double down on its nuclear program, speeding it up past a point of no return. Hints of progress were seen at the round of talks in Kazakhstan last month. The United States, negotiating together with Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany, proposed only small steps that would slightly ease Americanimposed restrictions (allowing Iran to again trade in gold and silver, and to obtain spare parts for civilian aircraft), while insisting on stringent demands that Iran give up its ability to highly enrich uranium and use it to build nuclear weapons.

Somewhat surprisingly, Iran said the proposal was welcome but not enough — and that it would respond in a few weeks. That contrasted with its previous pattern of flatly rejecting the other side’s proposals. The new pressures on

Tehran, its milder tone in the talks and its past signals that it might consider restricting enrichment levels suggest that Iran may be ready for productive bargaining. So the United States should be open to that possibility when talks resume in the coming days, and make new proposals to determine how serious the Iranians are. Since 2003, Washington has relied on sanctions to bring Iran to the international bargaining table. But the Bush and Obama administrations have done more sanctioning than negotiating — partly because putting pressure on Iran is popular in America, while making deals with Iran is not. Rather than pushing for a negotiated solution to the crisis, Washington has often seemed to be holding out for Iran to simply capitulate.

Iran’s leaders already suspect that America’s real goal is to overthrow their Islamic republic; at the same time, their citizens bitterly resent the sanctions, and generally support the idea of an Iranian nuclear program. Their leaders remember the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s, when Saddam Hussein violated international law by using chemical weap-

ons and was never punished for it.

Iran’s leaders concluded that they were vulnerable to aggression by their better-armed Arab neighbours, and that international agreements offered no protection.

In other words, insecurity drives Iran’s nuclear ambition, and it leaves Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, convinced that if he were to give up Iran’s nuclear program entirely, as Libya did in the last decade, he would only invite the fate of Muammar el-Qaddafi. That logic — if Iran is going to face sanctions anyway, better to face them with the bomb than without — has produced a saying in Tehran these days: “Better to be North Korea than Iraq.” Still, Iran’s leaders and citizens clearly want the sanctions lifted, and they may now be signalling a way out of the deadlock.

It’s time for the United States to test the leaders’ real intentions and offer them a path to rejoining the international community. The writer is dean of the School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University.

— Courtesy: The New York Times

Resentment..!

H

ow often I see friends and colleagues reeling under the weight of resentment: even I have been through instances where I have found myself resenting some ones action or insult, resenting an interference or harm that has happened to me.

I have found that resentment eats you up, bit by bit, day by day, and finally kills you. If we are to maintain spiritual freshness, we must determine to for-

give everyone who hurts us and refuse to nurse a grudge.

Grudges become glooms. I read this about a Japanese boy who learned to handle resentment well: A few years after World War II, a Christian Japanese boy at a public contest announced that his subject would be “ The Sacredness of Work.”

Some people smiled at his choice, but when they heard his story, their smiles turned to tears. His parents and home were burned to ashes in the atomic bomb explosion at Nagasaki. He was the eldest of the three surviving children, and together they knelt in the ashes of their home and prayed to know what to do.

One of them said, “I know—we can work.” So they set to work, gath-

ering bits of tin and boards, and soon they had built a little hut in which to live. They could have nursed their grudge and become gloomy; instead they forgave, forgot, and went to work. No one who wants to maintain spiritual freshness can afford to nurse a grudge. It will poison both spirit and body.

As one doctor put it: “Grudges put the whole physical and mental system on a war basis instead of on a peace basis.” Walter Alvarez, who is both a medical doctor and counsellor, says: “I often tell patients they cannot afford to carry grudges or maintain hates.

Such things can make them ill and tire them out. I once saw a man kill himself inch by inch, simply by

thinking of nothing but hatred for a relative who had sued him. Within a year or two he was dead.” A grudge or a resentment is sand in the machinery of living. You know what sand does to machinery, it spoils the smoothness of an oiled action till the piston or machinery finally breaks, or gets stuck and creates untold damage.

Here is a prayer for you if you are going through a period of resentment: ‘O LORD teach us how to get this Resentment out of our soul and also out of our body. Help us to decide that it is the Oil of Love, not the Sand of Resentment, that shall go into the Machinery of Our Life day by day. Amen.

—Email: bobsbanter@gmail.com

Voice of the People PTI & youngsters KHURRAM SHAHZAD AWAN People of Pakistan are looking for new hope for the development of their own financial resources and also in lieu of the socio-economical development in Pakistan. Pakistan Tehreek e Insaaf is new hope for the people of Pakistan. If we look at the past some politicians came in the political scenario to change the fate of the people but they were trapped by the bureaucratic and establishment barriers.

Imran Khan is a popular leader in the present political scene but the problem is that how he can overcome the political opponents?

A large number of youngsters have changed their minds as they think that Imran Khan is just making the people fool as first he already favored the fake referendum of General Pervez Musharraf. It was the crucial mistake of Imran Khan. People think that a person who once supports the dictator can never ever be the true political leader because a worst democracy is better than the best dictatorship.

Now the political field is open, how Imran will grab the attention of the youngsters in the upcoming election. It is a big question mark because a large percentage of people is looking for the answer from Imran Khan and Tehreek-e-Insaaf.

—Islamabad

The Capital’s exclusive Zone KHALID IDREES The town planner who designed Islamabad Master Plan divided the area included in the Plan into different Zones. These Zones are distinguished from one another primarily by the use to which the area circumscribed under a particular Zone can be utilized. Thus there are residential Zones, commercial Zones, industrial Zones and Zones where no residential, commercial or industrial activity is permitted. Over the years the CDA with the connivance of the political administrations, both military and civilian, that have misgoverned us have played havoc with Islamabad Master Plan. But at present I shall not dwell on the implications which violations of the Master Plan have caused.

Right now I want to draw attention to another very special and exclusive Zone that the powers that be have managed to create in Islamabad since last several years. It neither has any legality nor was it envisaged in the Master Plan of Islamabad. What I have in mind is the informal but an exclusive Zone comprising E 7 and E 8 Sectors of Islamabad that has been established by Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force since last several years. Citizens not serving in the armed forces of Pakistan are not allowed entry in this Zone as a matter of routine. Until one year ago common citizens would be allowed entry in this Zone from the designated entry points after depositing their CNICs which they could retrieve at the time of exiting the Zone. Since about one year this so called “ facility “ has been withdrawn because, according to the authorities, common citizens do not deserve this.

The above-referred so called Zone has been created in the name of security. Now, preventing common citizens from entering this Zone tantamount to abridging their right of free movement guaranteed by the constitution. Further this adds to the alienation between the armed forces and common citizens. I recall the spirit of genuine camaraderie that existed between the people and the armed forces until the mid sixties.

Unfortunately since early seventies, camaraderie of the sixties began to be replaced by a feeling of alienation.

This is not the place to go into the whys and wherefores of this transformation in the general public’s perception. However, suffice it to say that measures like creating exclusive areas for the armed forces where common people are denied access, albeit in the name of security, alienate people from the armed forces.

This is particularly so when the overall security situation of the country far from ideal. People have now become aware that it is taxpayers money that is being spent to provide security to only a special category of persons at the cost of leaving the majority “ exposed “ to the dangers. The realization is becoming strong that this is blatantly unjust situation which should not be allowed to continue. It is time that those who wield the decision-making apparatus do away with the blatantly discriminating security dispensations for the selected few. Before it is too late let us institute inclusive security arrangements and do away with the exclusive arrangements which are in vogue at present.

—Islamabad

ECP, the beacon light HAMID MAKER

T

HE position that the Chief Election Commissioner and ECP have taken to implement Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution of Pakistan and their fearless and upright stand have earned the ECC respect and revived the people’s hope. We know that he carries a heavy burden on his old and frail shoulders, but his strength lies in his integrity and honesty and the support of the citizens and the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Fakhruddin G Ebrahim must act according to the dictates of his conscience, hold the elections on schedule, irrespective of the consequences and ensure that they are transparent, free and fair. We fully support the ECP and urge him not to compromise on his principals and disqualify all those who do not meet the conditions laid out in the Constitution of Pakistan, without fear or favour. It is also up to the citizens to play their constitutional role, as responsible citizens and vote for only those candidates who have a proven and clean track record. If we fail to do so, then the fault will not be in our stars but in ourselves.

—Karachi

Pilgrims under threat CHANGEZI SANDHU As Pakistan is sweltering in the heat of terrorism in spite of a lot sacrificing for some decades, sectarian killing is also its part. People of some religious sects are victim of sectarian killing throughout Pakistan. As Balochistan is a land way for Shia pilgrims to visit the Shrines of religious celebrities in Iran therefore they are being targeted during the travel. Similarly, approximately 19 Shia pilgrims were killed in a car bomb attack in Mustang on 30 December 2012 at morning. Four women were wounded in this attack on a caravan on Quetta, Tafton highway, some kilometers from the provincial capital. Official said,”19 people had been killed on the spot and 25 others wounded.

An eyewitness told the pilgrims hailed from Lahore, Jhang, Rahim Yar Khan, Khaniwal and other districts of Punjab. If look into the sectarian killing of Shia pilgrims in Baluchistan, we come to know that seven hundred shia and fourteen hundred people from different tribes have been targeted in Baluchistan. According to the report, the Mustang area has become the most insecure for the Shia pilgrims.

As many as twenty-six Shia pilgrims from Hazara community were killed on 20 September, 2011 in an attack in the same district. More than Almost one hundred Shias have been killed in January 2013 and most of the people belonged to Hazara tribe.

Following these attacks, the government had decided to provide escort to buses carrying pilgrims but the attacks couldn’t be stopped. Both provincial and federal governments are not taking effective steps to provide them to secure their lives. No doubt, anti-Pakistan elements are playing a vital role in such killing to disable Pakistan and occupy Balochistan due to natural resources. All flesh knows that it is an ample example of world conspiracy. But our state actors should play an active role to fail their conspiracies by removing sectarian killing and terrorism etc.

Our government should first negotiate with the terrorist parties and then take effective steps to uproot them from our land. Some people say Army and our agencies are involved in this killing in Balochistan due to their interests and they are creating hurdles in its prosperity and stability.

But strictly speaking, it is out of my mind how that is that possible? Terrorism is prevailing so rapidly throughout Pakistan. I request to my government to show patriotism and try to eradicate such elements otherwise they can prove much dangerous for our country.

—Islamabad

Importance of vote S MUSHTAQ GHUMMAN It is an admitted fact that the right to vote is the mainstay of representative democracy as it carries in itself a power of change. Right to vote ,being a formal expression of preference by a citizen for a candidate, is regarded as the sheer manifestation of his aspirations. By dint of this precious right, people express their will through their elected representatives in every modern democratic system of the world. So, the role of electorate(citizens having right to vote) is of great significance as far as the policy-making is concerned.

Unfortunately, in a country like Pakistan, having representative democracy, right to vote has not been duly exercised since its inception.

There are multiple causes behind the exploitation of this valued right. But, the root cause is the lack of awareness and proper education. The citizens are unaware of the importance as well as the future implications about the use of this right. This is why, from the general elections of 1970 up to the elections of 2008, the average turn out has been 55%. Apart from this feudal lords, spiritual leaders and other influential entities have usurped

this right as well. Fictitious representation based upon empty slogans, bombastic speeches and immature leadership is the outcome of this undue influence. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, under Article 21,also throws light on importance of right to vote as it is stated that useful exercise of this right is the prerequisite for free, fair, impartial and transparent elections. It has been rightly said by former U.S. President Lyndon B Johnson that” a man without a vote is a man without protection”. So, this is the right, the use of which, determines the future course of actions.

In a nutshell, keeping in view the coming elections, citizens must know the worth of their inestimable right i e, right to vote as even a single vote can be decisive. There is dire need of awareness in this regard. So, the political parties and various NGOs concerning Human Rights must play their pivotal role in educating the masses regarding the effective use of this right as it is the essence of the democratic dispensation.

—Lahore

Save women’s rights ABUBHAKAR BHEEL The shackles of conservative approach toward the conduct with women and girls are crumbling across the globe. After having a frustrated attempt in 2003, the woman activists have achieved to get a resolution passed in UN assembly that would bar the unfair conduct with women and girls on the grounds of traditions, customs and religion. Although Iran, the Vatican and Russia, who reportedly were denounced as unholy alliance by diplomats of western bloc, had some apprehensions over the hard language and the terms related to abortion and inclusion of forcible sexual intercourse into the definition of rape, yet it was settled at the eleventh hour.

The step must be celebrated but by keeping in view the fact that it is yet to deliver the justice under the aforesaid declaration to the end points. The women in Saudi Arabia, Iran and some other countries are undergoing the unacceptable limitation at domestic as well as state level.

The growing numbers of Gang rapes in South Africa and India is appalling. It is stated ironically the same page of news paper was carrying the news of acceptance of resolution and rape of Swiss female tourist in India.

Though the enactment of Acid laws and gargantuan support for Malala’s cause augur better situation in Pakistan, the NGO’s reports over the women’s condition in her remote and backward areas are god-awful.

Is not it embarrassing to see the women’s position in most of the Islamic countries? It was Islam and teaching of our beloved holy Prophet (PBUH) who had revolutionized the role of females in society. At present instead of standing by their rights and become the bastion of equal status to woman, we are making others to take us on the issue. No one is expected to transgress the limits prescribed by injunctions of Islam but contemporary era entails some reforms.

There are some suggestions that would help realize and cure the problems. Neither women’s rights can be well secured, nor they can stand for their protection unless they are aware of the violation of their steps. Awareness and literacy rate should be considered in earnest. Secondly it is incumbent on the government to bring the domestic laws in conformity with the aforesaid declaration. A further aspect, not covered by declaration, of female inmates in prison also requires sincere attention.

—Via email

READERS are requested to type their letters legibly with double spacing and only on one side of the paper.

—Editor Email:editorial@pakobserver.net

Global Commonality!

World leaders ponder future of partnership FU JING IN BEIJING

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RODI said that the challenge of urbaniza tion is contingent on the new leaders’ de termination to reduce provincial differ ences across China, adding that the disparity in incomes between large cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and less developed areas such as Guizhou and Gansu province, are substantial.

“This great movement toward urbanization must be completed by a process of greater equality of income across different regions,” he said. World leaders ponder future of partnership: The rapid pace of urbanization has imposed huge pressures on Chinese cities and their infrastructures, according to the European Commissioner for the Environment Janez Potocnik. However, the move offers a unique opportunity to improve the lives of the future city dwellers, or “urban billion”. As the 2010 Shanghai Expo put it, to create a “Better City, Better Life”.

One of the most important lessons we have learned in Europe is that cutting air pollution does not necessarily mean cutting economic growth,” said Potocnik, who added that it is definitely possible to decouple economic growth from pollution growth. For Potocnik, that realization is an important starting point for any country considering policies to tackle poor air quality: “The measures being taken by the Chinese authorities to reduce vehicle emissions are very similar to our policies in Europe, and we have cooperated in this area for many years by sharing expertise and best practices.”

As part of that cooperation, Europe and China have become strategic partners in the promotion

has already forged a strong relationship with the people, one that will generate trust and hope, and that France welcomes the Chinese government’s intention of boosting internal consumption. “We believe it is a necessary step in satisfying the needs

so deeply entwined with the rest of the world, and the US in particular, that the country’s economic influence, through global investment, the internationalization of the renminbi and the rise of the domestic market, can only be expected to

I appreciated Xi Jinping’s knowledge of the EU’s way of working and his clear support for the improvement of the EU-China Strategic Partnership: Predi of the Chinese people in terms of education and healthcare, while maintaining sustained growth over the long term,” he said.

grow during the coming years, according to Peter Ho, professor of Chinese economy and development at Delft University of Technology in

in the style of governance is imperative for China’s long-term, stable development. The other side of this story is that we should never forget that socioeconomic and political changes take a long time to take effect, and China will be no exception.” China will always walk a tightrope in this regard; the country needs to change and respond to calls for change, but it also needs to change in accordance with the possibilities determined by time and place, he said.

China’s leaders have also been urged to engage with the rest of the world. Van Rompuy said he had already met Xi and Li before their elevation to the highest office, and they exchanged views on a wide-ranging agenda, but particularly on global issues. “I appreciated Xi Jinping’s knowledge of the EU’s way of working and his clear support for the improvement of the EU-China Strategic Partnership,” said Van Rompuy, who noted that at his meeting with Li Keqiang, the two men shared the opinion that the EU and Chinese economies are so closely intertwined that cooperation is essential to promote growth and jobs.

“As China continues to develop and emerge as an economic power, its political role assumes an even more important significance in today’s world,” said Van Rompuy, adding that the EU has constantly supported China’s transition toward the role of an active and responsible global player.

Economic imbalances, climate change, terrorism, nuclear proliferation and food security are just a few of the challenges that will require coordinated global cooperation. “China has a key role to play within the international community in addressing them. Increased power goes hand in hand with increased responsibility,” said Van Rompuy, “I am looking forward to working together with the new

For example, if the EU and China can create common standards for different products it will be easier for them to market those technologies, a factor that would provide greater incentives for industry to invest in them. “The development of those conditions will be something we can discuss in our dialogue on cooperation in innovation,” she said. Van Rompuy also said China’s confidence in, and support of, the process of European integration - especially now, during the ongoing debt crisis - has been of great importance to the EU and has further promoted cooperation between the trading bloc and China. of sustainable urbanization, a point emphasized when Li Keqiang and Jose Manuel Barroso, the president of the European Commission, signed the Joint Declaration on Urbanization in May 2012.

Environmental issues: Jean-Marie Le Guen, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the French National Assembly, said China’s new leaders have the experience to meet the challenges facing them.

Le Guen said he had noticed that Xi Jinping

The environmental issue also should be one of the main concerns for the future. France is very willing to cooperate with China to mutually point their economies in the direction of sustainability.

“Given its unquestionably central role in international relations, we are looking forward to a fruitful collaboration with China, so that it can fully play its role in a peaceful and constructive environment,” said Le Guen. World leaders ponder future of partnership: China’s economy is now

the Netherlands. “With that economic rise, there will be an increase in political, social, and cultural influence as well,” he said.

Ho said there are numerous, almost daily, examples on weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter, and other social media, where instances of corruption and social inequity are highlighted and go viral almost instantaneously. “From these cases we can clearly see that China is undergoing a fundamental normative change. As such, a change

Chinese leadership.” Moving up the scale: Hugo Swire, a member of Parliament and minister of state at the British Foreign Office, said the UK is committed to boosting national prosperity through trade and investment and that China will clearly play a crucial role. “China is changing at a rapid pace and opportunities will increase as the economy rebalances,” said Swire.

He was confident that the products in which the UK excels - luxury goods and cars, advanced

machinery and educational services - will easily meet the demand from China’s expanding middle class. Swire said Chinese companies are also going global and operating successfully in the UK. According to the UK Ministry of Commerce, the country was the fifth-largest destination for Chinese investment last year. “We will continue to encourage more; we want to move up that scale from fifth to first, and we’re working on it,” said Swire.

Prodi echoed Swire’s view and urged China’s leaders to prioritize Europe as an economic partner because the EU is generally more open than the US when it comes to accepting Chinese investment and exports. Prodi said he had met Li Keqiang twice in recent years. “He has a very open, direct personality, is a specialist in economic affairs and has deep political experience,” he said.

Li’s grasp of the importance of good relations between the EU and China was crucial.

“He (Li) understood how important it is, not only for Europe, but also for China, for us to have strong relations,” he said. Dacian Ciolos, the European commissioner for agriculture and rural development, said the world faces a common challenge in terms of food security and ensuring agricultural productivity and competitiveness, while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Ciolos said the EU and China can learn a lot from each other and share ideas on the optimum development of rural areas and a balanced rural-urban development, in addition to increasing investment into agricultural research. Meanwhile, Maire Geoghegan-Quinn, European commissioner for research, innovation and science, said research and innovation are key to sustainable growth and jobs and a higher quality of life in the future, both for the EU and China.

“We see the government of China as being very committed to developing the dialogue,” she said. Geoghegan-Quinn expects to see real progress this year and in 2014 in ensuring that research bodies and industry in China and the EU can better cooperate to develop the real innovations that people need. She said that China has a strong science and technology base and is one of the world’s leading nations in the registration of patents and the knowledge-based economy: “One of the hurdles we must overcome is the creation of the right environment to boost innovation.” “Of course, partnership is a two-way street,” he said.

—Courtesy: China Daily

Far less concern

Powers chisel own ethics!

Europe’s hair-trigger economy

Leaders we can trust again

LAWRENCE SUMMERS

E

UROPE’S economic situation is viewed with far less concern than was the case six, 12 or 18 months ago. Policymakers in Europe far prefer engaging the United States on a possible trade and investment agreement to more discussion on financial stability and growth. However, misplaced confidence can be dangerous if it reduces pressure for necessary policy adjustments.

There is a striking difference between financial crises in memory and as they actually play out. In memory, they are a concatenation of disasters. As they play out,

short European debt. Regulations enable local banks to treat government debt as riskfree, and they can fund it at the European

Perhaps it should not be surprising that Europe still looks to be in serious trouble.

Growth has been dismal; the euro-zone gross

This could come from a German economy prepared to reduce its formidable trade surplus, from easier European monetary policies that spur growth and competitiveness, or from increased deployment of central funds such as those of the European Investment Bank or perhaps other sources.

Central Bank (ECB) on better-than-market terms. The suspicion exists that, if necessary, the ECB would come in strongly and

domestic product has been below its 2007 level for six years, and little growth is forecast this year. For every Ireland, where there is a sense that a corner is being turned, there is a France, where questions increasingly arise about the political and economic sustainability of policy. The controversy surrounding the decision by the European authorities to bail out Cypriot bank depositors suggests the degree of fragility in Europe. The idea that converting a small portion of deposits into equity claims in an economy with a population of barely more than 1 million could be a source of systemic risk suggests the hair-trigger character of the current situation.

Everything is compounded by political uncertainty. Italy’s last election was inconclusive even by Italian standards. Scandals and staggeringly high unemployment are taking their toll in Spain. France is much calmer about its situation than are many outside observers. And Germany’s primary concern is avoiding turmoil ahead of its fall elections. Given a choice, all would almost A police officer walks in front of a bus station where an anti-bailout banner is certainly prefer some kind of macroecoplaced outside the parliament in Nicosia. nomic unorthodoxy to the breakdown of the norm is moments of panic separated by bail out bondholders. Remissions some- their monetary union. But there is a serious lengthy stretches of apparent calm. It was times are followed by cures and sometimes risk that as nations pursue their parochial eight months from the Korean crisis to the by relapses. A worrisome recent indicator concerns, the political and economic situaRussian default in 1998; six months from in much of Europe is the substantial ten- tion will deteriorate beyond repair. ContinBear Stearns’s demise to Lehman Broth- dency of stock and bond prices to move to- ued structural reform in the most troubled gether. When sentiment improves in healthy economies is essential, and the work of builders’ fall in 2008.

Is Europe out of the woods? Certainly countries, stock prices rise and bond prices ing a more satisfactory institutional foundaa number of key credit spreads, particularly fall as risk premiums decline and interest tion for the euro must go on. Critical to sucin Spain and Italy, have narrowed substan- rates rise. In unhealthy economies, however, cess will be recognition of the paradox that tially. But the interpretation of improved as in much of Europe today, bonds are seen in economic policy, as in so much of life, market conditions is far from clear. Restric- as risk assets, so they are moving, like what is good for one is not good for all.

—Courtesy Reuters tions limit pessimistic investors’ ability to stocks, in response to changes in sentiment.

RAMESH THAKUR

T

liberties and checks on government power for two years. We take democracy for granted when we have it, but we sure miss it when we lose it.

leader.”

If democracy meant just that, we would have government by plebiscite. Instead we elect representatives based on an assess-

HE invasion of Iraq by the United States, Britain and Australia be gan 10 years ago on March 20.

In Britain, The Guardian has reported that Foreign Secretary William Hague has written to senior members of government to ask that they not discuss the legality of the war. The Liberal Democrats, in coalition with the Conservatives, have been consistent in their arguments then and since that the case for war was contrived and that the war was waged in violation of international law. They are expected to ignore the advice. “Ours not to reason why, ours but to kill or die” may serve as the motto for the defense forces, but it is not acceptable for a modern accountable democracy.

I wrote several articles in these pages before, during and after the war in 2003: “U.S. test of U.N. relevance”, Feb. 9; “U.S. The President was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo. bears costs as U.N. is challenged,” March Democracy seems to be under growing ment of party policy platforms and the qual12; “The United Nations: More relevant now than ever,” March 23; “War vindicates threat even in the West, from governments ity of their judgment. In my lifetime, nothU.N. stance,” April 27; “End of the old that have used the war on terror as an ex- ing broke the trust between people and their world disorder?,” May 10; “Humor’s role cuse to trample on civil rights, from others government in some of the world’s leadin war survives,” May 19; “Contradictory that have pushed antidiscrimination mea- ing Western democracies more than the U.S. triumph,” June 1; “Why India said ‘no’ The key task will not be to reopen old wounds, but to U.S,” July 17. All were highly critical of the U.S.-led war in which Australia and rather, in an age of growing mistrust of government and Britain played deputy sheriffs with unbridled rising public awareness in Western societies of the braggadocio. None required or used any special insider information beyond an inpreciousness of each human life, to look to how telligent analysis of publicly available people’s faith can be restored in the processes and sources.

A public lecture I gave at Australian institutions that send our soldiers to foreign battlefields.

National University on the eve of the war was attended by a capacity audience of 400 sures in an assault on human rights (espe- 2003 Iraq War. The yearning for accountpeople — impressive for a talk by a for- cially free speech) that transfer more pow- ability remains undimmed. There is groweign-based noncelebrity in a city of just ers to government-appointed technocrats and ing cynicism and anger, and not just in 300,000 people. The public anger of the time tribunals, and from citizens increasingly dis- Africa, that Kenya’s president-elect, Uhuru may have subsided, but public disquiet over enchanted by parliamentarians who refuse Kenyatta, is being pursued doggedly by the how governments manipulated facts and to listen. Democracy relies on a social com- International Criminal Court while those used evidence to justify the illegal war has pact between citizens and representatives. who committed the “supreme crime” of agnever been assuaged. Does it really matter Trust once broken between them can be very gression against Iraq in 2003 walk free and to look back in sorrow and anger at divisive difficult to rebuild. This does not mean that some are still feted at international gatherevents and passions from 10 years ago? For governments have to be slaves to public ings. The American, British and Austrathe sake of democracy it does. Democracy opinion as in the quote attributed variously lian governments brushed aside the public was distinctly un-faddish among fellow stu- to a Frenchman during the upheaval in Paris as ill-informed and dismissed the United dents in the 1970s. I was in Delhi in 1975 in 1848 and to Benjamin Disraeli in the U.K.: Nations as lacking in cojones.

—Courtesy: Japan Times when Indira Gandhi abrogated democratic “I must follow the crowd, for I am their

Enemy common - approach variation

Rules and exceptions in Indonesia’s counterterrorism ALI WIBISONO

I

NDONESIA’S counterterrorism debate has taken an interesting turn lately as it examines the compliance (or noncompliance) of the po lice counterterrorist unit Densus 88 in the “fight against terrorism”. The media reported that Densus 88 killed five suspected terrorists in the scarcely developed island of Sumbawa in West Nusa Tenggara as they were said to be resisting arrest with bombs strapped on their bodies. The following day, the head of the National Counterterrorism Body (BNPT) Ansyaad Mbai definitively stated that a network called Mujahidin Indonesia Timur was operating in Poso, Makassar and Bima, and that they trained in Poso and Bima. Another report told how the people in Poso were terrorized by the state’s counterterrorism effort and came all the way to Jakarta to report their case to the National Commission on Human Rights and Nahdlatul Ulama. Muslim political leaders seem to be keen to take this

allegation of human rights abuse as evidence of the targeting of Islam in counterterrorism policy and the issue soon demands evaluation and, if necessary, the dissolution of Densus 88.

As we set our gaze on Poso and environs, we cannot help but remember that Muslim-Christian

forces who were doing most of the killing. As the security forces became unreliable, civilians on both sides took illegitimate security measures by forming militias, attacking their neighbors and burning their homes to the ground. Violence never completely dissipated after the reconciliation that fol-

looking at new violence in Poso. But unlike 19992002, violence in Poso is now talked about within the framework of “terrorism”, a discourse that results from a decade of securitization of terrorism and normalization of counterterrorism. In May 2012, the Indonesian Police announced that Central

Indeed, bringing up all the units in the police to the level of professionalism of Densus 88 is worth pursuing so that other crimes in society can be prevented as promptly and as decisively as that of terrorism. More than an instrument of counterterrorism, Densus 88 is a symbol of exceptionalism. violence waned in Maluku between 1999 and 2004.

These conflicts would never have resulted in thousands of lost lives had the security forces acted decisively to stop them before they got out of hand.

Indonesians discussing these conflicts often use the word “omission”, implying the ambivalence of security forces towards civilian violence.

The breakdown of regulatory order in Maluku’s security forces, the military and the police, was one of the factors in the violence as it was the security

lowed up to February 2002 with the signing of the Malino agreement. It was a ceremonial reconciliation that revealed no truth: nobody admitted that they or anybody else was responsible for the violence. Officers have since been transferred, dishonorably discharged and sanctioned, but illegitimate ways of seeking security are already embedded in the collective memories of both security officers and power holders.

With this historical baggage in mind we are now

Sulawesi was a bomb and firearm making center and training area for terrorists. With Surakarta and Papua, Central Sulawesi frequently appears as a counterterrorism site. The discovery of bombs, explosives, and guns are often showcased in police press conferences, complemented by some kind of historiography of the perpetrators as graduates of an Islamic boarding school, having spent life in the southern Philippines or been involved in the conflicts in Central Sulawesi. Questions of how bomb

materials and guns get into the hands of certain individuals, or how a militant training camp operates relatively freely in Sulawesi seem to fade in the background of kill-or-capture operations on some unknown individuals we can only assume are terrorists.

Questions about crime prevention, clean and transparent criminal justice, stringent border patrols in other words normal duties of security forces seem to have become less popular than issues labeled as “terrorism”. Instead, the exceptional measures of arresting without charge, torture during interrogation, killing of suspects are normalized or, at best, treated as mere misconduct of certain unscrupulous minorities. For the past decade the Indonesian terrorism debate has become increasingly difficult for ordinary civilians to evaluate. This was reflected in Ansyaad’s opinion that disillusioned terrorism researchers are no different from terrorists, acting as if they were lawyers of the terrorists.

—Courtesy: Jakarta Post

85% of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road completed in Waziristan WAZIRISTAN—85 percent of work has been completed on construction of the UAE-funded Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road, currently under

construction in South Waziristan, Director of UAE Project to Assist Pakistan (PAP), Abdullah Khalifa Al Ghafli, said.

The building of the US$38.01 million-road, one of the largest and most important projects in Pakistan, is under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to develop and modernise infrastructure in

Pearl terror suspect held From Page 1 airport where US soldiers were staying in December 2002, but the bomb exploded while it was being prepared and killed one of Asadullah’s associates instead. In 2003, the group sent parcel bombs to police officers, injuring many people.—Online

College principal gunned down in Liaquatabad From Page 1 spector of police was gunned down in Pak Jamhooriya Colony near Kala Pul. The victim was later identified as Zakir Hussain.

One unidentified was killed in Machchar Colony while another was shot in Ghas Mandi area.

Police had arrested a dacoit in injured state while his accomplice died in an alleged police encounter in Raees Amrohwi Colony in Orangi Town.

An unidentified man was gunned down in Kunwari Colony in Manghopir area.

Unidentified armed men on motorcycle killed owner of a tyre puncture shop in Gharibabad area. Police recovered a body of 22-year old girl. Marks of torture were visible on her body. It was shifted to hospital for necessary legal procedures.

Rangers conducted a targeted operation in Ali Brohi Goth in Landhi. The operation was also monitored from air through chopper. Rangers had cordoned off the entire area at dawn and carried door-to-door search operation.

Rangers recovered a cache of illegal weapons from the arrested suspects from the area.

Police had conducted a targeted operation in Meeran Naka in Liyari and held 3 criminals of Ameen Buledi gang. The Ameen Buledi gang was wanted in several cases especially extortion and grenade attacks in Mukka Chowk near MQM headquarters, Nine Zero.

Pakistan’s remote and poor regions, Al Ghafli added in a statement.

As the first paved road in Southern Waziristan and a stra-

tegic corridor between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road will enhance the transport system in the region’s rough terrain by linking a large number of its cities and villages to major cities.

With half of it in mountainous areas, the 50-km Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road features five bridges and its height ranges between 4600 and

8600 feet. Al Ghafli added that work is underway on the strategic highway between Wana and Angoor Ada in South Waziristan despite the region’s rough geog-

raphy and harsh weather conditions. All engineering teams and consultants intensified work to implement the project on time in accordance with the best international standards of excellence.

“The UAE, under its wise leadership has always been at the first responder to meet the needs of the population in Waziristan in line with the directives and initiatives of President His High-

ness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to assist the friendly people of Pakistan by a number of development and humanitarian projects,” Al Ghafli said.

Under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Project to Assist Pakistan (PAP) is currently carrying out 28 development and humanitarian projects worth US$54.5 million in South Waziristan alone, he noted. These include two colleges for males and females, a US$5.1 million modern model school for 1200 students. Education assistance also included 3000 school bags for male and female students.

PAP is also building the 50bed Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Hospital, dedicated to the treatment of women, children and the elderly, and is rehabilitating three current 50-bed hospitals at a cost of US$4.3 million.

The UAE’s healthcare projects in the region will serve 35000 inhabitants in the region, according to the official.

Twenty projects worth US$2.1 million are under construction by PAP in Waziristan to provide pure drinking water from wells and purification and pumping stations which will serve around 6500 households. PAP also gave out 5000 food parcels and large quantities of dates to refugee and poor families in South Waziristan, Al Ghafli added.

1965 War hero M M Alam passes away From Page 1 mise of the iconic legend and a national Hero M M Alam. The Air Chief further said that any chronicles on the World’s Aviation Hall of Fame or accomplishments of Pakistan Air Force would remain incomplete without the mention of Air Commodore (Retd) M M Alam. A daring fighter pilot, Top Gun of his own class, war hero, scholar par excellence, a patriotic Pakistani and a committed professional, M M Alam was an icon and a role model not only for the PAF airmen but also for the Muslims across the world.

M M Alam, was born on 06 July 1935 in a well educated family of Calcutta, British India.

Having completed his secondary education from Government High School, Dhaka, in 1951, M M Alam joined PAF in 1952 and was granted commission on 2nd of October, 1953. During his service career, Alam underwent many courses including Fighter Conversion Course, F-86F Familiarization Course, Fighter

Leader Course, PAF Staff College Course, Orientation Training Course-USA and Royal College of Defence Studies Course – UK. His major appointments included Air Gunnery & Tactical Instructor at Fighter Leader School, Officer Commanding No 11, No 5 and No 26 Squadrons, Director Operation Research, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Flight Safety) and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans) at Air Headquarters. He also served in Syria on deputation.

During Indo Pak war in 1965, Squadron Leader M M Alam, while Commanding No 11 Squadron at Sargodha, shot down 02 and damaged 03 Indian Air Force aircraft on 6th September, 1965. On this act of outstanding bravery and heroism, he was awarded with Sitara-i-Jur’at (gallantry award). 7th September 1965 is the day when M M Alam rewrote the history of Air Warfare by setting new records while defending Pakistan’s Airspace

against the aggressors.

He shot down 05 Hawker Hunter fighters of Indian Air Force, in air-to-air combat by shooting down five Indian aircraft in less than sixty seconds, the first four within a span of 30 seconds only. For such an awe inspiring feat of gallantry, M M Alam was again awarded Sitarai-Jur’at (with Bar). Govt of Pakistan also paid him a befitting tribute by naming one of the prominent roads in Gulberg, Lahore after his legendary name.

Funeral prayers for National War Hero M.M. Alam were held at PAF Base Masroor on Monday. Governor Sindh Dr Ishrat Ul Ebad, Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal TahirRafique Butt, Corps Commander Lieutenant General Muhammad Ejaz Chauhadry, and senior officers from tri services attended the funeral prayers.

After the burial floral wreaths from Chiefs of Army Naval and air staffs were laid on the grave.

PPP proposes From Page 1 The well-informed sources in PPP confided to this scribe that ex-District Nazim Lahore Mian Amir Mahmood’s name for the slot of Chief Minister in Punjab proposed by the opposition leader in Punjab Assembly was a shrewd move to put pressure on PML-N to neutralize the pressure in the center.

As for as the nomination of Asma Jahangir is concerned, it is also political maneuvering since Asma’s name was also proposed by the PML-N for the slot of the Prime Minister so this would be a difficult task to reject her name proposed once by the PML-N itself.

Pakistan, Egypt From Page 1 randum of Understanding and an Executive Programme for cooperation in different fields.

President Asif Ali Zardari and his Egyptian counterpart Dr. Mohamed Morsi witnessed the signing ceremony held at Aiwane-Sadr here on Monday.

MoU for cooperation in the field of Money Orders and International Postal Services was signed by Secretary Postal Services Javed Iqbal Awan and Egyptian Ambassador to Pakistan Saeed Hindan.

The MoU for Cooperation in the field of Merchant Shipping was signed by Secretary Ports and Shipping Dr. Khawar Jameel and Egyptian Ambassador.

Secretary Board of Investment of Pakistan Shahid Rashid and the Egyptian Ambassador signed the MoU between BOI and General Authority of Free Zones and Investment of Egypt.

Secretary Information and Broadcasting Agha Nadeem and the Egyptian Ambassador signed the MoU between Middle East News Agency and Associated Press of Pakistan.

Document for 3rd Executive Programme for Scientific and Technological Cooperation between Pakistan and Egypt for 2013 to 2015 was signed by Secretary Science and Technology Akhlaq Ahmad Tararr and the Egyptian Ambsssador.

Chief Executive Officer of Small and Medium Enterprizes Development Authority of Pakistan Sardar Ahmad Nawaz Sukhera and Secretary-General of Special Fund for Development of Egypt Dr. Ghada Wali signed the MoU for cooperation between the two organizations.

Later, those signing the documents had a group photo with the two Presidents.—INP

BHC restores From Page 1

cial said the area was reverberated with heavy firing after the explosion as the attackers were still hiding in the premises of the complex. “ The security forces cordoned off the area. Pak Army Jawans also reached on the site of the blast and started operation against the attackers who were hiding in the complex” another officer said.

Assistant Commissioner Peshawar said the terrorists tried to enter the courtroom of Additional Sessions Judge Kulsoom Azam. Additional IG Masood Afridi claimed there were two suicide bombers; one blew himself up while the other was shot dead by the police.

The Additional IG said the terrorists came from backside of the building and started firing on the policemen after they were spotted by police. He said three policemen sustained wounds

CDA Defenders full support to Chairman SHARAFAT K AZMI I S L A M A B A D —The Capital Development Authority Defenders have greeted Syed Tahir Shahbaz on his restoration as Chairman CDA by Supreme Court of Pakistan and has declared it delightsome for the authority.

Chairman of the Defenders group Zia-ur-Rehman Toor, President Hamayun Akhter, General Secretary Arshad Chohan, Doctor Mazher Hussain, Fazal-e-Mabood, Tauqeer Nawaz, Wajood Lashari, Safder Bukhari and other office bearers of CDA

Defender group received Chairman CDA here at CDA Headquarters on Monday and presented him bouquet.

CDA defenders assured Syed Tahir Shahbaz of their full cooperation and support for his vision of development.

They said that as Chairman of the authority his efforts to eradicate corruption and assurance of merit in the organization are commendable.

They said that CDA officers are very optimistic that Syed Tahir Shahbaz will lead the organization towards its lost glory.

quiry is got conducted only for the sake of face saving.

The officer against whom judicial commission recommended action in Gojra incident remained posted at his place.

When recommendations have not to be implemented then why we should provide our inquiry officer. Judicial officer has to face humiliation when the recommendations of judicial commission are not implemented.

The CJP gave these remarks in reply to the demand made by Advocate General (AG) Punjab that judicial inquiry be held into the incident and then factual situation would come to light.

Justice Gulzar Ahmad observed no one including police is trying to ascertain real causes which led to Joseph Colony arson attack. We go back after conducting hearing.

AG Punjab told the court no evidence has been found on handing over the possession of

From Page 1 area to some one else after getting it evacuated.

CJP remarked every thing will become clear who is interested in Joseph Colony plot.

The court observed the blasphemer be punished but the punishment be not awarded to the whole community,. Ramsha Masih case and this incident brought defamation for the country. Punjab government and police failed to conduct transparent inquiry into the incident. Punjab government told in its report CCPO did not reach the scene .

CJP remarked the responsibility of the incident has been shifted to the shoulders of CCPO in the report. IG Punjab Khan Beg said that he was kept ignorant about the incident and it was job of the SHO. CJP remarked IG could not be exonerated from this incident.

Don’t give false statement before the court. Every police officer is trying to save him. No progress

has been made in this case and we are standing there still from where we had started this case.

We could not bring to light the root cause of the incident . If we ask sessions judge to hold inquiry then the persons responsible for this incident and facts would come to open tomorrow.

He further remarked that it was not the job of IG to sit in airconditioned room; It was his responsibility to look into the matter personally.

Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed remarked If police wanted it could avert the incident by blocking the avenues.

AG told the court federal government has not appointed IG police in the province so far. SP Investigation told the court blasphemous act has been committed in Badami Bagh incident. FIR lodged against the a c c u s e d Sawan Masih is correct. The hearing of the case was adjourned till March, 25. —Agencies

Government striving to spread education KARACHI—The government is striving to make available educational facilities at the doorstep for everyone in the country. This was pointed out by the Governor of Sindh, Dr. Ishrat ul Ebad Khan, here at the Governor House on Monday.

He was speaking at the reunion of the alumni from the province of Sindh under the Higher Education CommissionUSAID Merit and need-based Scholarship Programme. More than 550 students from the four institutions of higher learning of Sindh province benefitted from this very programme.

The Governor lauded the successful collaboration of the Higher Education Commission

(HEC) and the USAID and also appreciated the efforts put in by the youngsters. He also praised the role of the US towards development in socio-economic sphere including education, health and agriculture.

Dr. Ishrat was of the view that the collaboration of the HEC and the USAID in the realms of higher education would prove to be quite beneficial. He hoped that such a cooperation would continue in the years to come.

The Consul General of the United States in Karachi, Micheal Dodman, expressed pleasure at the success of the USAID-HEC scholarship programme. He was of the view that such initiatives would help

towards improving the standard of living of the youngsters and providing them with the opportunities to excel.

It was pointed out that three centres for advance studies set up in the realms of agriculture, energy and water in collaboration of the USAID and HEC. The Chairman of the HEC, Dr. Javed Leghari, spoke of the commitment of his organization towards the promotion of higher education in the country.

He also appreciated the HEC-USAID scholarship programme and said that it would enable the youngsters to acquire higher education and serve the society in an effective manner.—APP

Anti-Karzai parties talk to Taliban KABUL—Afghanistan — Afghan political parties united against President Hamid Karzai recently opened talks with the Taliban and U.S.-declared terrorist Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, hoping to broker peace ahead of next year’s exit of international combat troops and a presidential race that will determine Karzai’s successor, Taliban and opposition leaders have told The Associated Press.It’s the first confirmation that the opposition has opened its own, new channel of discussions to try to find a political resolution to the war, now in its 12th year. And the Taliban too seem to want to move things forward,

Balochistan Assembly and restored Tariq Magsi as opposition leader.

Earlier a petition was filed in the BHC by Tariq Magsi challenging the notification issued by the provincial assembly speaker.

It is worth to mention here that late on Sunday night, the speaker Balochistan Assembly had notified Senior Provincial Minister Maulana Abdul Wasay as leader of the opposition in the provincial assem- of joining MQM at a press conference former PPP leader Nabil Governor, Engineer bly.—INP Gabol who carries a pre-partition Shaukatullah has strongly conpolitical legacy to his political demned the suicide attack at Justanding hails from a family dicial Complex Peshawar on From Page 1 which served Karachi even beMonday.Describing it a worst fore creation of the country. lier said that Maulana Abdul heinous act of terrorism exHis grand father was elected pressed deep shock and sorrow Wasay of JUI-F would be noti- as the first member of the legisfied as the opposition leader but over the loss of innocent precious his notification was withheld fol- lative house of the Bombaylives.

Karachi residency in 1927. Ac”The heinous crime of sabo- lowing tough resistance by some cording to Nabil Gabol his grand members of the assembly. tage and terrorism, the Governor On the other hand, the PML- father defeated Sir Abdullah said, has deeply hurt every citiN is claiming that it has the sup- Haroon in the election. He was zen and deserves to be conport of 40 members of the pro- elected mayor of Karachi in demned by all.”

1956. His uncle Sattar Gabol was Expressing his deep sympathies vincial assembly.

While 19 provincial miniswith members of the bereaved families, the Governor said that ters, who have resigned, have the elements involved in the hei- formed an alliance and they nous crime will not remain at have refused to accept Maulana large and will be brought to jus- Wasay as the opposition tice. The Governor lauded cou- leader.—INP rageous role and sacrifices of the From Page 1 jawaans and officers of security forces in combating the terrorists stan Muslim League-N and From Page 1 and said that the nation will alJamiat-e-Ulema Pakistan, a comport of a fact-finding mission ways feel proud of their exemmittee was found on the occasion commissioned by the council that plary sacrifices. deemed that the settlements were comprising Khawaja Saad leading to Palestinians’ human Rafique, Hamza Shahbaz Sharif rights “being violated consis- and Zaeem Hussain Qadri of PML-N. JUP Committee comtently and on a daily basis.”

The report, published at the prised Pir Ijaz Ahmad Hashmi, end of January, sparked angry Qari Zawar Bahadur and Dr. STAFF REPORTER reactions from Israel, which at Javed Awan of JUP. It was agreed the time slammed it and the Hu- in the meeting that as PML-N and LAHORE—In the context of in- man Rights Council that com- JUP are the founder parties of tolerance, sectarian violence and missioned it as “one-sided and Pakistan, they will jointly block the way of looters and corrupt the Joseph Colony arson, Paki- biased.” —AFP elements in general elections. stan Ulema Council is convenWelcoming the harmony and ing a National Solidarity Concooperation in general elections ference on March 20. between PML-N and JUP, More than 35 representaFrom Page 1 Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said tives of religious and political “Pakistan is facing serious chalparties and non-Muslim PPP. The PPP as a political groups have confirmed they party under the chairmanship of lenges like terrorism and extremwill attend the conference at Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has yet ism and is passing through a criti2.00 pm, Pakistan Ulema not got it registered with the Elec- cal phase. The forthcoming next Council’s Central Secretary tion Commission but contested general elections are of critical General Sahibzada Zahid the elections under the banner of importance in the history of the Mahmood Qasmi said.

PPP Parliamentarians (PPPP) country.” He said these elections “Pakistan’s religious and that was registered with are for the survival of the country political forces will have to unite Makhdoom Amin Fahim as a and he is confident that people will for the security and solidarity of party president to take part in the bring forward a sincere and honest leadership in general elections.

Pakistan. elections.—INP

6 people die, 35 injured in bomb blasts, firing From Page 1 from the firing of terrorists during the encounter and were shifted to hospital. The courtroom of the Additional Session judge was damaged in the attack and windowpanes of nearby offices were smashed.

The dead includes Abdul Majeed, Syed Jalal, Ashfaq and an unknown. The Additional IG said judicial complex was the target of the attackers and was cleared.

He said situation was under control and Khyber Road where the judicial complex was situated was opened for traffic.

Mian Iftikhar Hussain, Khyber Pukhtunkhwa Information Minister told reporters that the incident was an attempt to destroy peaceful atmosphere for elections.

The Khyber Pukhtunkhwa Bar Council gave strike call on Tuesday against this gory incident. The Khyber Pukhtunkhwa

SC orders indictment of Malik in contempt case

even contemplating replacing their top negotiator, two senior Taliban officials told the AP. Reaching an understanding with both the Taliban and Hekmatyar’s Islamist militant group, Hezb-e-Islami, would give the opposition, which expects to field a consensus candidate in next year’s presidential election, a better chance at cobbling together a post-Karzai government.

The alternative to a multiparty government after the 2014 elections, many fear, could signal a return to the internecine fighting of the early 1990s that devastated the capital, Kabul.But

with ongoing back-channel discussions and private meetings being held with Taliban interlocutors around the world, it’s difficult to know exactly who’s talking with whom. Early last year, Karzai, who demands that any talks be led by his government, said that his administration, the U.S. and the Taliban had held three-way talks aimed at moving toward a political settlement of the war.

The U.S. and the Taliban, however, both deny that such talks took place. Hekmatyar’s group has held talks with both the Karzai government and the United States.—AP

MQM gains mileage

Governor

UN experts

PUC solidarity moot tomorrow

ECP meeting

PML-N, JUP-N to cooperate in elections

From Page 1 also a known political figure and elected to the National Assembly.

Nabil Gabol who remained with Pakistan Peoples Party for more than 25 years has now joined MQM with a strong commitment to serve what he called the deprived people of Sindh and Layari in particular by joining hands with MQM which he feels

is the only party in Pakistan which represents the masses from grass roots level to middle class of the society.

MQM Chief Altaf Hussain and his party workers gave a big hand to welcome Nabil Gabol into their fold which is a good omen for peace and stability of Karachi, Sindh and Pakistan.

COURT NOTICE

COURT NOTICE

In the Court of Mr. Muhammad Saleem Sb, Judge Banking Court-III, 12-B Allah Shafi Chowk Pul Bararan Road Multan/ Camp, Court Sahiwal.

Suit No.28/2013 M.C.B Ltd Branch Car For U Sahiwal —Plaintiff Versus Numan Anjum S/O Anjum Saleem R/O H.NO-304 Nai Abadi Sahiwal. —Defendant Proclamation U/S 9 (5) Financial Institution Recovery of Finances Ordinance 46 of 2001 WHEREAS the aforesaid plaintiff has instituted a suit against you and others for recovery of Rs-656614/alongwith mark up/interest and costs etc claimed to be payable by you Proclamation u/s 9(5) Ordinance 46 of 2001 to the above is hereby issued requiring you to make within 30 days of this proclamation, an application for leave to defend the suit.

Taken notice that on your failure to file such application within time specified above the Banking Court shall pass a decree as prayed for in the plaint. Next date for further proceedings, in the case has been fixed on 22.03.2013.at Sahiwal.

Given under my hand and the seal of the court, this 7th day of March, 2013

In the Court of Mr. Muhammad Saleem Sb, Judge Banking Court-III, 12-B Allah Shafi Chowk Pul Bararan Road Multan.

Suit No.386/2013 M.C.B Ltd Consumers Branch Multan —Plaintiff Versus Anees Ahmed Sindhu S/O Bashir Ahmed Sindhu R/O General Bus Stand H.NO-348 Mohallah Tughlaq Town Multan. —Defendant Proclamation U/S 9 (5) Financial Institution Recovery of Finances Ordinance 46 of 2001 WHEREAS the aforesaid plaintiff has instituted a suit against you and others for recovery of Rs-270574/53alongwith mark up/interest and costs etc claimed to be payable by you Proclamation u/s 9(5) Ordinance 46 of 2001 to the above is hereby issued requiring you to make within 30 days of this proclamation, an application for leave to defend the suit.

Taken notice that on your failure to file such application within time specified above the Banking Court shall pass a decree as prayed for in the plaint. Next date for further proceedings, in the case has been fixed on 27.03.2013.

Given under my hand and the seal of the court, this 15th day of February, 2013 Seal of the Court Judge Banking Court III Multan

Seal of the Court Judge Banking Court III Multan

Ministry assures timely completion of 1,205 MW hydro power projects I S L A M A B A D —All efforts

12 militants killed HANGU—At least twelve militants were killed at Maomozai in the fresh skirmishes between security forces on Monday. According to Media reports, Security forces have raided at PESHAWAR: Security personnel inspecting the suicide jacket of an attacker after terrorists stormed the Judicial Complex Maomzai in the hideouts of mili- on Khyber Road on Monday. tants. Suddenly they started firing resistance resultantly twelve militants were killed while three hideouts were also destroyed fully.—Online

Contempt petition

Primary schools bombed M OHMAND A GENCY—Suspected militants bombed two government primary schools in Mohmand Agency, officials told on Monday, in the latest attack on government educational institutions. According to official sources, two government primary schools were partially damaged when explosives planted by the extremists went off with a blast in Tehsil Saafi of Mohmand Agency. No casualty was reported as a result of blast while security forces cordoned off the area after the explosion and initiated investigation, sources added.—Online

Bugti murder case

LHC rejects Zardari’s assurance on political activities MUZAFFAR ALI

LAHORE—The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday, rejecting assurance from President Asif Ali Zardari that he would not take part in political activities, said its ruling with respect to cessation of political activities in the Presidency was not being implemented.

The court asked the President to follow the court’s previous orders on dual offices, otherwise, the court would deliver verdict if the President did not desist from his involvement in politics. A fivejudge full bench of the LHC, headed by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, has been hearing the petition seeking contempt of court proceedings against President Zardari for not complying with its May 12, 2011, judgment declaring political activities by the President unconstitutional.

The court adjourned the hearing until March 29. The bench added that the president should adopt an honest approach in the petition, adding that if the presi-

QUETTA—Two important characters in the Akbar Bugti-murder Case, namely former Federal Interior Minister Aftab Khan Sherpao and former Provincial Interior Minister, Mir Shoaib Nausherwani have demanded of the Anti-terrorism Court (ATC) to shift the case to a Trial Court.

Judge of Anti-terrorism Court Muhammad Ismail Baloch heard the case here on Monday.

Former Federal Interior Minister Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao and former Provincial Interior Minister Mir Shoaib Nausherwani appeared before the court and stated that they have filed a petition in Balochistan High Court to shift IRFAN ALIGI the case to a trial court, therefore, hearing of the case should KARACHI—Muttahida Qaumi be deferred. As a result, hear- Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf ing of the case was adjourned till Hussain said that no one should April 3.—Online die because of poverty. No one should be left without education because of lack of financial reFC recovers sources. MQM’s government would make education up to 450kg of heroin free and it would DALBANDIN—Frontier Corps matriculation be the responsibility of the govBalochistan raided in the area of ernment to provide complete Chaghi and recovered huge healthcare facilities to the poor cache of heroin worth of million people without any cost. rupees on Monday. Upon receivHe was addressing a huge ing secret information, FC gathering in Gama Stadium in launched operation in the hilly Mirpurkhas on the occasion of area of Chaghi near the shrine the 29th Foundation Day of the of Sultan Baba and recovered MQM. A large number of people 450 kg Morphine pack in plas- belonging to different walks of tic bag. However no arrests were life and workers and office-bearmade. The Frontier Corps ers of the MQM were present. claimed that the seized heroin is He said that the MQM would in best quality and worth of mil- establish a just and equitable syslion rupees in international market.—Online

dency failed to respond positively, the bench would rule on the matter accordingly. The court was told on several occasions by the defence counsel that the President does not take part in political activities and that the party president Makhddom Amin Fahim is leading the party. The court however rejected the argument and urged the President to take decision with honesty.

The petitioner’s counsel submitted news clippings regarding the political activities of the President Asif Ali Zardari during his recent stay in Lahore. Additional Attorney General argued before the court and rejecting his arguments, the Chief Justice of the LHC gave remarks that despite the assurance of the federal government, newspapers and all television channels covered the President’s political activities. On this, the federal government’s counsel said Pakistan peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto chaired all the political meetings in Lahore. The court said if it did happen so why the Presi-

dent did not contradict the news reporting of television channels and the newspapers? The president’s counsel responding this query said the newspapers and television channels were not ready to publish or broadcast the contradicting statements of the president. He said if the president talked about the creation of Southern province in Punjab and in saying such there was nothing political stance on this issue. The counsel further made it clear that the PPP would not take part in general elections rather PPP-P would contest the upcoming general elections. On this argument, the court asked him whether the office-bearers of the PPP were also the office-bearers of PPP-P and on this query the counsel sought the time to submit the detailed information on this. Earlier during the hearing, federation’s counsel, Barrister Wasim Sajjad, submitted an application requesting the adjournment of proceedings.The court resumed the hearing of the petition seeking contempt of court proceedings against President Asif Ali Zardari.

US reassures Poland over missile defence changes

WARSAW—U.S. officials visiting Warsaw tried to reassure Poland on Monday that the cancellation of the final stage of a European missile defense system will not sideline the country and was not made to appease Russia. U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced last week that plans to place longrange missile interceptors in Poland in the next decade are being abandoned and that interceptors will be placed in Alaska instead due to the threat from North Korea.

But U.S. defense and political officials on a previously scheduled visit to the Polish capital said shorter-range interceptors would still be based in Poland as part of NATO’s missile defense system in Europe.

The Obama administration has planned to put medium-range interceptors in Redzikowo, in northern Poland, in 2018, as part of the NATO system. They are meant to protect Europe from attacks from Iran. Wendy Sherman, U.S. undersecretary of state for political affairs, said the Polish site “will go forward as scheduled.”—AP

will be made to complete the Neelum Jhleum Hydro project, Golen Gol and Dubair Khawar hydro projects within the stipulated time frame and resolve the issues related to any project.

Secretary Water and Power, Sikander Ahmed Rai gave this assurance while chairing a meeting with visiting Joint Supervisory Mission (JSM) of lead financers of three hydro power projects here on Monday, said a press release.

The consortium includes representatives from Islamic Development Bank, Saudi Fund Development, Kuwait Fund Development and Opec.

The meeting was also attended by Additional Secretary Ministry of Water and Power, Chairman Wapda and senior officials of Neelum Jheluim project, Golen Gol and Dubair Khawar project and ministry of Water and Power.

Secretary water and Power said that the ministry has also allocated the funds for the projects and financial support of the donors would help to complete the project in time.

He said that the progress on three projects being reviewed and monitored regularly.

The country is facing energy shortage and timely completion of these projects would help to bridge the gap between demand and supply.

He also thanked the delegation for visiting Pakistan to review the progress of the projects.

Earlier, the Chairman Wapda briefed the JSM that Khan Khawar hydro project of 72 MW and Allai Khawar Projects of 122 MW have been completed.

While the remaining three projects of 1205 MW would be completed as per their schedule.

Dubair Khawar project would be completed by June

this year. Neelum Jhelum Hydro project of 969 MW by 2016 and Golen Gol project of 106 MW would be completed by 2015.

He also informed that the government has recently approved Rs 24 billion for Neelum Jhelum Project.

He said that 47 % work on tunnel boring has been completed on Neelum Jhelum project. The JSM appreciated the progress on three projects and stated that the consortium of financers would continue its support for energy projects.

The JSM would also visit the sites of all the three projects to review the progress. —APP

‘PMLN to reject interim CM emerging from PPP-MQM pot’ STAFF REPORTER K ARACHI —Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz would not accept any caretaker set-up in the province of Sindh if it was announced without taking the PML-N, Pakistan Muslim League Functional, National People’s Party, Awami Tehreek, Sindh Tarraqi Pasand Party, Sindh United Party and Pakistan Sunni Tehreek.

PML-N Sindh chapter spokesperson Ismail Rahu said this while exclusively talking to

Pakistan Observer.

Pakistan Observer also contacted PMLF Sindh chapter General Secretary Imtiaz Shaikh and Nusrat Sahar Abbasi to note their comments on the emerging controvarsaries as the PM-N Sindh spokesperson had repeatedly quoted PMLF as major stakeholder. However, PMLF leaders Imtiaz Shaikh and Nusrat Sahar Abbasi declined to talk to Pakistan Observer despite repeated efforts.

It was likely that the Sindh Chief Minister and the opposi-

tion leader from Muttahida Qaumi Movement Syed Sardar Ahmed would announce the name of interim Chief Minister of Sindh. However, the PML-N and PML-F along with all allies including Sindh nationalist groups would commence vehement protest against the decision and would also move court against the decision.

It was the right of the PML-F to get its lawmaker declared as the opposition leader in Sindh Provincial Assembly.

Altaf promises ‘just, equitable system’ if elected

Pak citizen dies at Munabao JAISALMER—A senior citizen of Pakistan died at Munabao railway station while returning to his country by Thar Express.

The incident happened when 70year-old Ishra Ram’s health suddenly deteriorated on his way back to Pakistan. Ishra Ram was taken to a primary health centre at Gadra Road, some 35 km away from Munabao, but he could not be saved. Incidentally, there was no doctor available at the station. If Ishra Ram had received treatment from a doctor at the station, he probably could have been saved. Later, the body was sent to Pakistan by Thar Express. The 70-year-old hailed from Bhawalpur . He had come to Jodhpur on a 30-day visa.

Ishra Ram was undergoing immigration check at Munabao.—INP

tem in Pakistan that would give speedy justice to the poor people who do not have the resources to hire expensive lawyers.

Across the board accountability would be done and loan defaulters, looters of national wealth and bribe-takers would be given exemplary punishment.

He said that MQM did not sell party tickets at the time of general elections and no one can point finger at the MQM MNAs, MPAs and Senators for any corruption. MQM awards tickets purely on the basis of merit and totally free of cost.

He said that the people would ask as to how the MQM would implement its revolutionary policies keeping in view the fact that the country was heavily burdened with foreign debt. He said that the

looted national wealth would be recovered and spent on public welfare projects. No one would be able to evade tax if an MQM government came in power.

Speaking about the injustices committed against women, he said that the evil customs of karo kari and marriage with the Holy Quran would be abolished. Those who throw acids on women should be given harsh punishments.

He said that the MQM’s government would allocate 50 percent reserved seats for women in provincial and national assemblies. He said that 50 percent jobs in government and semi-government institutions would be reserved for women in order to lift their economic status. MQM would introduce ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff, Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, exchanging views with General Mohammad Abdul Fatah elland reforms and a limit would be Sisi, Commander- in-Chief of the Egyptian Armed Forces and Minister of Defence and Military Production during meeting set on maximum land-holdings. on the sidelines of Egyptian President’s visit at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Indian SC slams Italian envoy, dismisses his immunity plea NEW DELHI—Slamming the steps on order restraining the Ital- coast last year, leading to a stand- undertaking given to Supreme as persona non-grata and downItalian Ambassador over the ma- ian envoy from leaving the counrines issue, the Indian Supreme try,” SC said.

The apex court had on March Court on Monday said that they 15 restrained the Italian Ambashad lost trust in him.

An angry SC said, “We do not sador from leaving the country trust the Italian envoy anymore.” without its permission, taking exComing down heavily on ception to his government’s reDaniele Mancini when told that fusal to send back the marines.

However, the Indian SC he had complete immunity under the Vienna Convention, the SC stopped short of holding the ensaid, “A person who comes to the voy in contempt.

Meanwhile, the marines case court and gives undertaking has has been adjourned till April 02. no immunity.”

Italy reneged on its undertakThe Supreme Court also restrained the envoy not to leave the ing to send back its marines country till further orders. “All charged with the killing of two authorities shall take appropriate Indian fishermen off the Kerala

off between New Delhi and Rome.

The Italian government had on March 11 sent a ‘Note Verbale’ to the Indian government informing it that the two will not be sent back. Earlier, on January 18, the apex court had turned down the Italian government’s plea that the Indian courts had no jurisdiction in the case and had held that the two marines should be tried by the Centre by constituting a special court to conduct their trial.

Harish Salve, who quit as Italian government’s counsel, feels that Mancini breached a solemn

Court which can take action against the envoy including sending him to jail.

Salve said he feels that the Ambassador will find it “very hard” to explain in the court why he went back on the undertaking.

The two marines, Massimiliano Lattore and Salvatore Girone, were allowed by the apex court to go to Italy to cast their vote in the elections there after the Italian Ambassador had given an assurance to send them back. The Indian government is mulling various options including declaring the Italian Ambassador

grading of relations.

It has already asked its Ambassador-designate to Italy Basant Kumar Gupta not to proceed to Rome as a review of the entire gamut of ties with Italy was underway by the government.

If this comes through, there will be no Ambassador-level representation between the two countries.

The two marines were on board Italian vessel ‘Enrica Lexie’, when they shot dead two fishermen off the Kerala coast on February 15, last year.—INP

Siraj Durrani tortures Secretary; cases lodged against both STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—Sindh Local Bodies Minister Agha Siraj Durrani Monday tortured a secretary of his ministry Shaukat Jhokio for allegedly refusing to sign a list of appointments.

A case has been registered against Agha Siraj Durrani and Zulfiqar Dehar among 11 people on the complaint of Shaukat Jhokio, whereas, a case against the victim was also registered on the complaint of the section officer in Aram Bagh police station.

According to the police, the

case against Jhokio was registered for allegedly intervening in the government affairs.

On the other hand Shaukat Jhokio along with medico-legal reports reached the police station to have the case registered against the minister. The case against Durrani was registered under torture among various other clauses.

Talking to media, Shaukat Jhokio claimed that the local bodies minister came to his office and asked him to sign a document carrying appointment list and on refusal he started beating him.

Distracted eaters likely to take in more calories

P

EOPLE who eat meals or snacks while watching TV, playing games or reading tend to consume more calories in a sitting, and especially later in the day, according to a review of two dozen past studies.

“Some studies have individually shown this before, but the evidence has never been put together,” said lead author Eric Robinson from the University of Liverpool, UK. According to Robinson, distracted eating could increase the amount of food consumed by up to 50 percent.

On the other hand, summoning memories of what was eaten in a previous meal decreased the amount of food eaten later.

“Even though we make decisions about what and when to eat with apparent ease all the time, these decisions are actually very complex and can be easily disrupted,” Suzanne Higgs, a study coauthor and psychologist at the University of Birmingham in the UK, told Reuters Health in an email.

The researchers broadly categorized eating patterns as “attentive,” such as sitting quietly and recording what was eaten during a meal, or the exact opposite, “distracted.”

Distracted eaters do not pay close attention to food and are not as aware of how much they have eaten.

Robinson and his colleagues searched the scientific literature and found 24 studies conducted between 1997 and 2011 that met their

main criterion of involving an experimenter who actively manipulated participants’ attention, memory and awareness of eating food. All of the studies were tightly controlled and monitored, but each had different methods of manipulating participants’ attention and awareness.

For example, in one study, adult men and women watched television while eating. In another, participants snacked on pistachio nuts and experimenters immediately removed the nut shells from view.

The experiments ranged in size from 14 participants to 122, and 18 of the 24 studies were done with university students as subjects. Nearly all of the men and women in the experiments were normal weight, rather than overweight or obese.

The analysis suggests statistically significant differences between participants who ate attentively and those who ate while distracted, Higgs said.

On average, eating while distracted increased the amount eaten by about 10 percent, compared to not being distracted. But it also increased the amount a person ate at a later meal by more than 25 percent.

In contrast, enhancing memories of food consumed at an earlier meal reduced the amount consumed at a subsequent meal by about 10 percent.Enhancing awareness of the food being consumed at the current meal did not, however, change how much people ate at that meal.

ISLAMABAD: CDA staffers busy in planting saplings at the greenbelt during spring plantation campaign in Federal Capital.

Sufi musical night mesmerises audience I SLAMABAD —The stunning

ISLAMABAD: Students participating in tug of war at Roots Junior Olympic.

Roots Junior Olympiad held CITY REPORTER ISLAMABAD—The Roots Junior Olympiad 2013 kicked-off with a bang at Roots Millennium Schools, Capital Campus, G-11/3. A two day mega event was inaugurated sponsoring several competitions and over 800 plus Participants from different RMS campuses nationwide took part in 20 exciting competitions including Live Art, Debating, Dramatics, Chess, Gaming, Table Tennis, Wall Climbing, Photo Essay, Fashion, Singing and Creative Writing. The Millennial Junior Olympiad is an initiative of the ambitious and enthusiastic students of Roots Millennium Schools, Islamabad. It is a platform on which participant students from across country have registered and the platform allowed them to prove their mettle within various domains of co and extracurricu-

lar activities.

It was the most divergent and spectacular event which was fully enjoyed by everybody.

This mega event introduced the most innovative and ground breaking ideas.

The event was greatly appreciated by the guests and highly acknowledged and the students loved it. It was a huge success that brought smiles on the faces of our shining stars.

The participating campuses were RMS Wahid campus F-10/ 2, RMS Emaar Campus, RMS Primary Section F – 8/4, RMS High School F–8/4 and RMS Capital Campus, Islamabad.

This dynamic platform offered a thrilling encounter between the best of the best with a diverse array of captivating activities.

The students of tier 4 till 7 participated in 28 categories.

The two days mega event commenced on Friday with an opening ceremony followed by

Qirat, Naat and Wiz Quiz Competition, Short Skit and Puppetry which proved to be highly engaging for the participants. Athletics, especially the Tug of War was the center of attraction for everyone and all the participants tried to give their best. The day two was all about entertainment with amazing performances presented by all the campuses. Exhilarating dance shows were exhibited.

The external and internal fashion judges as well as the onlookers present at the fashion show expressed amazement at the highly developed aesthetical skills of the participating students enhanced by their teachers .

The Theme of RMS Primary Section, F-8/4, “From Junk to Funk” and “Rock Stars” from Capital Campus were the show stealers. The dance performers gave the event a highly charged atmosphere.

Security primary responsibility of government: Justice Mulk STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Judge Supreme Court of Pakistan, Justice Nasirul Mulk has said that it was the primary responsibility of the government and the security agencies to take effective steps to control terrorism.

He expressed these views at the graduation ceremony on the conclusion of a week-long colloquium on “Modern Investigation and Evidence Gathering Techniques in a Changing Criminal Justice

and Counter Terrorism World” held here at the Federal Judicial Academy (FJA) on Monday.

He said, “Those of us who are associated with the justice system in this country in whatever capacity can also contribute in our own way in the efforts to curb terrorism.

An efficient and effective criminal justice system can bring to justice those involved in terrorist activities.”

Speaking on the occasion, Peter Heyward, High Commissioner of Australia to

Pakistan said that the cost of terrorism to Pakistan had been great.

These incidents continue to occur, with huge impacts not only on life and property but also on the stability and effective functioning of society, he said.

“These are high stakes and it was key that all parts of the justice system are fully able to apply the rule of law to those who would seek to undermine it. It is to this end that we are holding this colloquium.”

performance of Qurban Niazi and his companions mesmerized the audience at a sufi musical night held at Rawalpindi Arts Council on late Sunday evening.

The event was arranged at RAC’s auditorium featuring folk singer Qurban Ali Niazi, his companions sang poetry of famous sufi poets including Sultan Bahu and Bulleh Shah.

A large number of people belonging to differentt walks of life attended the event, whereas Qurban Ali Niazi was accorded a gold medal on the occasion to pay tribute to his services for the promotion of sufi music.

Senator Najma Hameed and MPA Advocate Raja Muhammad Hanif were the guests of honor, while Japan Embassy Consular Toshikazu Isomura, Naheed Manzoor and RAC resident director Waqar Ahmed were also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Senator Najma Hameed said holding of sufi music night is the best way to promote the message of tolerance and brotherhood given by sufi poets.

MPA Advocate Raja Hanif said that said he is thankful to Rawalpindi Arts Council for organizing this event and he hoped that such functions will be held in the future as well so as to spread the message of sufi poets.

Naheed Manzoor said, “Sufi poets are messengers of peace and love, and they represent true face of our society, they promoted tolerance in a complex society centuries ago and now our society needs same message and spirit.—APP

SHO Koral suspended for partial role in land dispute I SLAMABAD—Station House their workers in firing. It is to Officer (SHO) of Koral Police Station was suspended for his failure to control the dispute between land mafia groups and also his favorable attitude to one of them, a police source said on Monday.

According to details, SHO of Koral police station Mehr Munawar was suspended and new Inspector Chaudhry Arshad has assumed the charge of SHO’s office. Police source said that two separate FIRs had been registered at Koral police station over the complaints of two parties who alleged each other for demolishing their property and injuring

mention that Islamabad- G.T Road and its adjacent areas remained closed for hour on last evening due to this tension between two groups.

According to the first FIR registered on the complaint of Malik Mudassar Ali, it has been alleged that Malik Ishrat Hussain along with his accomplices came in Loi Bher area and demolished his site office besides kidnapping his workers Saeed Ahmad, Muhammad Akram, Shahid Hussain, Fahad, Javed Iqbal, Safdar Hussain, Waseem Akhtar, Bilal Ayub and Karamat Ali.

On the other hand, Malik Ishrat Mehmud also lodged report with Koral police station alleging Mudassar Ali and Malik Deen for demolishing his house and injuring his worker Fida Hussain through firing.

Following these complaints, the source said that IGP Islamabad Bani Amin Khan intervened into the matter and doubted the role of SHO Inspector Mehr Munawar.

He immediately ordered to suspend him and asked Inspector Ch. Arsahd to report him within 48 hours after investigating into matter, the source maintained.—APP

NUST awards doctorate degree to Morsi SHARAFAT KAZMI I SLAMABAD — The National University of Science and Technology conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Philosophy on the Egyptian President Dr. Mohamed Morsy at a special convocation in Islamabad on Monday.

The degree was awarded to Egyptian President in recognition of his achievements and significant contribution towards promotion of peace and harmony in the world and strengthening bilateral relations with the Muslim countries specially Pakistan.

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf as Chancellor of the

University conferred the degree on the Egyptian President.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Mohamed Morsy said Islam dictates on the Muslims to seek knowledge and get enlightened by the science. He said our Prophet (PBUH) has ordered us to seek knowledge even if it were in China.

He urged the new generation to get scientific knowledge despite challenges.He said Muslim scientists made many achievements in the field of science. He said European philosophers also appreciated their successes.

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf speaking on the occasion lauded the struggle of

Dr. Morsy for democracy.

He said Pakistan is looking forward to new vistas of cooperation with Egypt in various fields including agriculture, health and higher education.

The Prime Minister acknowledged Dr. Morsy’s contributions as a leading politician and a learned academic.

He expressed gratitude to President Morsy on behalf of President, the government and the people of Pakistan, for his maiden visit to Pakistan.

He expressed the confidence that this visit will serve as a basis to further deepen, diversity and strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and Egypt.

PNCA to hold Ikebana workshop I SLAMABAD —Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan would organize an Ikebana Workshop (Japanese art of flower arrangement) from March 21-28.

Professor of Ikebana, Asifa Ataka, who studied this art from one of the leading flower arrangement schools in Japan, Ikenobo has been specially invited from Karachi to conduct this workshop.

The workshop will be held at PNCA’s National Art Gallery (PNCA), without any registration fee.

However, flower arrangement equipments and materials will be brought by the participants as per the requirements of the workshop or as instructed by the Ikebana expert. Registration forms are available on Embassy website; www.pk.embjapan.go.jp.—APP

Musical evening portrays mystic poetry, traditions I SLAMABAD —A musical evening featuring centuries old mystic poetry in Afghanistan and Pakistan was organized here late Sunday evening at Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA).

The tradition bearers of Afghanistan, Chitral, Hunza and Peshawar comprised young artists, who performed historic epic tunes with different instruments presenting diverse music traditions of the region.

The event was arranged

by Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCSP) in collaboration with the embassy of France in Pakistan to bring together master musicians and tradition bearers for exploring shared values of the mountain communities living both in region.

The musical performances included perfor- ISLAMABAD: Traditional singer performing on the stage during Dialogue Through Tradimances of Ustad Ali Gohar tion Bearers ‘Mystic Music’ organized by PNCA and the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakiwith his team, Wakhi Music stan in collaboration with the Embassy of France .

Tradition, Pashtu Folk Music, Music from Chitral Rubab tradition of Afghanistan and Mystic Sufi Music from Hunza and Chitral.

Ustad Ali Gohar the last master drummer of ‘Safro family of Hunza’ performed together with Shamsulo the great grandson of ‘Budul’ and young master ‘surania player Karim’.

Like all the other traditional cultural events, this event started with the tune called ‘Bo Te Hareep, followed by epic tunes ‘Ashur Jaan’ and ‘Doshi Ke Dandoshi’. Ashur Jaan celebrates human nature of legendry mythical character called Kisar (Caesar) which is played in GB, Chitral, Ladakh and Tibet with various interpretations.

Doshi Ke Dandoshi, describes a mother’s feeling who lost her young intelligent Doshi on the wedding day.—APP

05:50 01:30 05:00 08:00

April 12 FOLK Mela will commence in Lik Virsa, Shakar Parian, on April 12. Skilled workers, craftsmen, folk singers and artists will participate in the celebrations.

Continues THE Japanese Embassy and the Rawalpindi Arts Council have arranged an exhibition of photo panels titled “Contemporary Japan caught by Lens” at 3pm on Thursday at Rawalpindi Arts Council, Stadium, Road, Rawalpindi. The exhibition will remain open till March 29 from 9am to 4pm daily except holidays.

Drive against under-aged drivers R AWALPINDI —Rawalpindi

CDA to auction 1,096 trees at Shakarparian ISLAMABAD—The Capital De- of the revenue to be generated ground as these would damage velopment Authority would auctioning around 1096 grown trees from the site of under-construction International Cricket Ground at Shakarparian.

The Environment Wing of the CDA has already publicized the auction plan to attract the interested parties.

Among the trees to be auctioned included sheesham, mulberry, salts and ply species besides others and the size of the total wood to be auctioned has been measured at 7952.75 cubic feet.

The auction has been scheduled in the first week of April to be held at the site.

The construction of international cricket ground was approved last year when an MoU was signed between the CDA and the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Under the agreement, 30 percent

from the facility would go to the CDA and rest to the PCB. The cricket ground had been planned over 35 acres of land with a sitting capacity of around 50,000 people. Besides, cricket ground, a cricket academy had also been planned at the site.

For the trees existing at cricket ground site, the Authority had estimated the price of Rs 1,390,000. Besides, another auction of dried mulberry trees had been scheduled during the first week of April against the estimated cost of Rs 315,000.

The environmentalists had already been criticizing the CDA for carrying out the construction activities in the eco- friendly Shakaparian area like Pak-China Friendship Centre, Cultural Complex, Art and Craft Village and under-construction parade

the environmental beauty of the area.

Earlier, subsequent to the criticism from the environmentalists, the CDA had to shelve the dualization of the Garden Avenue project as it involved massive cutting of trees.

In his comments, a senior CDA official said the trees are only removed if they impede the development projects being executed under the Master Plan of Islamabad.

He claimed that the CDA usually plants 10 saplings against a tree chopped down to pave ground for any development project. Exemplifying 7th and 9th Avenue projects, he said the CDA had carried out massive tree plantation alongside both of the road to compensate for the damage caused to the city’s environment.—APP

50,000 observers to monitor upcoming elections RAWALPINDI—District Election Commissioner (DEC) Zahid Subhani on Monday said around 50,000 local and independent observers would monitor the upcoming elections across the country, which would help ensure holding of free, fair and transparent polls.

Talking to APP here, he said the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) would issue accreditation cards to these observers selected from different

parts of the country. Besides, a call centre would be set up where the observers could contact and report any violation of election rules and regulations.

The DEC said close circuit television (CCTV) cameras would also be installed at sensitive polling stations to avoid any untoward incident and ensure conduct of elections in a smooth manner.

This time, he said the number of polling stations in the

Rawalpindi district would be doubled, increasing the number from 1100 to 2200.

The commissioner said the voters’ list has been updated, while the teams of election commission are visiting door to door to include name of each and every eligible person in the final list, adding “the team will continue to register missing eligible voters name in the list till the announcement of the election date.”—APP

Traffic Police has decided to launch operation against underaged drivers.

The decision has been taken in the wake of escalation in pace of loss of life of underage drivers due to overspeeding and one wheeling.

Necessary directives have been issued to all wardens, officers and sectors incharge to show no leniency towards under aged drivers and they be challanned and their motor cycles be impounded.

The parents have been advised not to allow their children to drive vehicles and motorcycles unless the license is issued to them and they become fully cognizant of the driving norms.— Online

10 incidents of murder in capital in one week ISLAMABAD—Putting a question mark on the performance of Islamabad police, 10 incidents of murder have occurred in the federal capital, including five blind murder cases during the last one week.

According to details, three murder cases occurred in the jurisdiction of Koral police station. One murdered person has been identified by his family while two bodies are still unidentifiable.

Koral police recovered dead body of a person from Burma Pull area who was murdered by stabbing in stomach, while the police recovered another body from Korang Nullah on Wednesday.

Another dead body of nearly 50-year-old person was recovered in the jurisdiction of Golra Morr police station, who could not be identifies so far.

Meanwhile, body of a 13year-old girl was recovered from a gutter of a primary school in Sector I-9/1.

The girl was abducted from Mangu Town of Bhara Kahu. In the meantime two other persons were killed in the jurisdiction of Tarnol police station and Sabzi Mandi police station.—INP

ISLAMABAD: Ahmed Nawaz, a student of Mass Communication, NUML, after winning ANPSC 2013 with Rector Maj Gen (R) Masood Hasan and DG Brig Azam Jamal.

AIOU to hold 3-day ‘grand competition’ for students I SLAMABAD —Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is holding a grand competition amongst the students of the University who won 1st prize in each category in the competitions held in their respective region/cities. This will be a three day program and begins on Tuesday 19th March, 2013).

This was announced by Syed Zia-ul-Hasnain, Director, Directorate of Students Advisory & Counselling Services, AIOU. Vice-Chancellor, AIOU Prof. Dr. Nazir Ahmed Sangi will preside over the opening session on 19th March in Begum Nusrat Bhutto Auditorium of the University. Competitions includes essay (English & Urdu), Qira’t, Naa’t, Cultural Show, Flower exhibition for 19th March while Milli Naghma, Speech (English & Urdu), Flower Exhibition and stalls competitions will be held on 20th March.—INP

ISLAMABAD: Activists of PPP and MPA Faiza Rasheed chanting slogans during the rally on the end of 5-year democratic government.

Cattle pens make Chaklala Cantt residents’ life miserable

RAWALPINDI—Pollen allergy sloughed off skin, saliva and berry trees. of dog or cat secretions He said that single most imRAWALPINDI—The residents patients have been asked to take excreta and excretions of birds, body portant step one can take is to all possible preventive measures have expressed concerns over the increasing cattle pens in different parts of Chaklala Cantonment Board (RCB), which create stinking smell and excruciate environment.

Residents talking to INP lamented that they have been facing worrisome situation due to existence of cattle pens in various areas of Chaklala Cantt including Mareer Hassan, Dhoke Charagh Din, Qaziabad, Dheri Hassanabad, Tahli Mohri, Raheemabad, Jhanda Chichi, Bakra Mandi, Chungi No 22, People’s Colony and other areas.

They said that the cattle farms were spreading many skin and respiratory diseases due to poor sanitation arrangements in them.

They alleged that the owners of cattle farms shift their animals from city to cantonment areas so as to evade crackdown on cattle pens in residential areas. The concerned Cantt board and city administration authorities were not taking any serious action against them due to the political interference.—INP

Lack of fence alongside nullah poses life risks

SC suspends transfer R orders of CDA chairman ISLAMABAD—Supreme Court (SC) while suspending transfer orders of chairman CDA issued stay order on this count and ordered that Tahir Shahbaz Shahbaz and Tariq Pirzada will continue to perform duties as chairman CDA and chief commissioner respectively.

A 3-member bench of SC presided over by Justice Jawad S Khawaja took up the case for hearing Monday.

Secretary establishment told the court that chairman CDA was transferred under the verbal orders of Prime Minister (PM).

Principal secretary of PM while delivering the orders told us that Tahir Shahbaz had repeatedly requested PM for his transfer, she added.

On inquiring from the court, chairman CDA told that he had not made any such request. He was transferred on March, 16 and on the same day he met secretary establishment but he was not informed about his transfer, he further said. .

Tahir Shahbaz further told the court that “ I had said this if some thing was done against the rules and regulations then I would not care for my office.

As per report presented by secretary establishment, transfer orders of 25 officers of grade, 19,20 and 21 were issued on the last day of the incumbent government. PM is competent authority to issue transfer orders of the officers of grade 21 and above.

Chief Commissioner Tariq Pirzada told the court he had never expressed desire to hold the post of CDA chairman nor had he ever taken interest in it.

Secretary establishment told the court that further action would be suspended on the transfer orders which have not been implemented so far.

The court while directing principal secretary of PM and CDA chairman to file comprehensive reply put off hearing of the case till Tuesday.—Online

Play Land turns into pasture I SLAMABAD —Due to sheer negligence of Capital Development Authority, the Play Land situated near Maraghzaar Zoo has turned into a pasture for goats.

Although CDA does not allow keeping livestock in the federal capital, more than 20 goats are found grazing in the Play Land daily. So far, CDA has not taken any action to resolve the RAWALPINDI: Labourers busy in their work for laying sewerage pipeline along 6th matter.—Online Road Flyover.

Pollen allergy patients asked to take preventive measures to avoid medical complications in this high risk season.

A private physician, Dr Aslam said here on Monday that when some allergy producing particles enter the nose and come in contact with the internal lining of the nose then swelling and inflammation in the nose starts and the patient suffers from symptoms like sneezing, nasal itching, watery nasal dripping, watering of eyes and mild sore throat.

He said the different types of substances producing allergy are pollen grains of flowers, dust particles, outdoor and indoor molds or fungus, insect venom of bee, animal dander like

parts and excreta of insects like cockroach, foods like milk, egg, fish, prawns, beef, mutton, chicken, peanuts, and some drugs like penicillin, sulfa drugs and insulin.

He said, the citizens afflicted with pollen allergy should adopt extra preventive measures during the spring season when pollen count ranges highest especially in mid March in twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The number of allergy patients goes up in every pollen season especially during the last two weeks of March because of increase in population and spread of existing paper mul-

avoid pollen in the allergy season. Those who can afford to leave should do so, and remain away from high pollen concentration areas. The patients should avoid unnecessary exposure to irritants.

He also asked the patients to desist from eating spicy food, use of perfumes, walking in garden and using carpets on the floor, while they should wear face mask, use wet cloth for dusting and use vacuum cleaner instead of broom.

He advised the people not to open the windows of the vehicles and use sunglasses when they are in the open and apply fresh water in eyes and nose.—APP

Repair of Rashid Minhas Road demanded RAWALPINDI—Rashid Minhas blind eye towards the dilapi- negligence of the concerned Road from Mareer Hassan to Mareer Chowk and Gawalmandi Road, which was dug about three months ago to lay water pipelines, still could not be repaired, adding to already severe traffic problems.

Expressing their annoyance on the situation, residents and commuters said that the concerned Cantt Board officials and project director have turned

dated condition of road. They said that the road on Gawalmandi was already in bad condition while the digging had made it even worse.

They further said that Rashid Minhas Road was dug to lay water pipelines and was to be repaired immediately after the completion of the pipeline project while the road could not be repaired just because of the

authorities.When contacted, Project Director, Khanpur phase III project said that the recent rains had delayed the repairing of the road after completion of the pipeline project.

The residents demanded of the Station Commander and CEOs of the Cantt Board to visit the area to witness the condition of the road and order early completion of the road.—INP

AWALPINDI—Lack of fence on seasonal nullah located in last bus stop of Tench Bhatta has triggered grave concern among the residents of area.

Fence on the nullah stands broken since long and several minor traffic accidents have taken place due to heedlessness of the concerned quarters towards arranging repair work or erection of new fence on the nullah.

The residents said that their children have to go to other side of the nullah to attend their classes as their schools are situated in that locality. Every day two or three incidents take place where their school going children get injured being slipped down to depths of nullah due to absence of fence.

“We accompany our children to school lest they should ISLAMABAD: A person on the way along with his bicycle loaded with pots for filling water slip from the broken fence and in capital. plunge into the bottoms of nullah, said a group of parents.

The motorcyclists are the real victims of torn out fence of the nullah as they have to face dire consequences when they slip from the fenceless banks of nullah and plunge into deafenI SLAMABAD —Residents of ing pits of nullah.—Online Dhok Ratta Union Council No 1 have expressed grave concerns over out of order streetlights in ISLAMABAD—Islamabad Po- Shalimar Police station ar- the area, holding the TMA offilice apprehended 10 culprits rested accused Hayat Khan in- cials responsible for the situafrom separate places and re- volved in several crime cases tion.

Ali Imran, a resident, talkcovered, 5 bottles of wine, car, and recovered stolen items ing to INP said that the streets 120 Kg chars, heroin, 04 pis- from him.

ISLAMABAD—TheAmbassador of tol and various stolen items ASI Imran Haider of and roads of the area plunge into Sudan in Pakistan, Shafie Ahmed from their possession, the Margalla Police station during darkness with the sunset every Mohamed called on Prof. Dr. spokesman said. patrolling arrested accused day. He said anti-social elements Ahmad YousifAl-Draiweesh, PresiAccording to police, ASI Muhammad Qasim and recov- and drug pushers took advantage dent, International Islamic Univer- of Nilofer Police Station Omer ered five bottles of wine while of the darkness and stole valusity, Islamabad (IIUI) and discussed Hayat during patrolling ar- also arrested Muhammad ables from homes. matters related to bilateral interest. rested accused Muhammad Asghar and recovered 30-bore Ashfaq Khan, another resiSpeaking on the Arbab and recovered 30-bore pistol from him. dent, said the darkness caused occasion,Dr.Ahmad Yousif Al- pistol, four round from him.

Police have registered by dysfunctional streetlights Draiweesh said that good educaIndustrial Area police sta- separate cases against them also increased possibility of road tional relation with Sudan is top tion apprehended accused and started thorough investiga- accidents. He said the TMA ofpriority of (IIUI). He said (IIUI) is Muhammad Asif while ASI of tion. ficials did not even bother to commitment to provide quality CIA arrested Waseem Abbas Meanwhile, Inspector Gen- visit the area. education to the students of Islamic and recovered Mehran car bear- eral of Police Islamabad Bani In an application submitted countries especially Sudan and ing number Plate LWA - 0812, Amin Khan and SSP Islamabad with the TMA Rawal Town, university will continue its efforts three lacks 50,000 along with Yasin Farooq has applauded the Malik Muhammad Iqbal said in this regard. He added that (IIUI) bogus registration book and performance of CIA, ASIs, and streetlights in 14 streets of the is always trying to find new ways they also recovered 120 kg of patrolling officers have been di- area are out of order, demandto expand educational relations chars from accused Syed Imran. rected to further tighten the se- ing early repairing or replacing with Islamic countries.—APP of the streetlights.—INP ASI Muhammad Rees of curity.—Online

Sudanese Ambassador calls on IIUI President

10 outlaws nabbed, 5 bottles of wine recovered

Faulty streetlights irk Dhok Ratta residents

AJK Assembly condemns India

Pakistan is major stakeholder in Kashmir dispute: Majeed STAFF REPORT MUZAFFARABAD—The Prime Minister AJ&K Chaudry Abdul Majeed has denounced the Indian allegation of interference of Pakistan in Kashmir dispute saying that Pakistan was one of the major stake holders as determined by UNCIP resolutions. The Prime Minister maintained it while addressing the joint session of AJ&K Legislative Assembly and AJ&K Council, presided over by the speaker Sardar Ghulam Sadiq Khan here on Monday.

Governor for sustainable harnessing of water, energy resources

The AJ&K Premier came down hard on the recent statement by Indian authorities and stated that againt Indian oppression Kashmir were continuing their indigenous struggle for freedom. He reiterated that Kashmiri leadership and the elected parliament were unanimous on Kashmir cause irrespective of their political differences.

“Pakistan cannot be de-nied of its significant role in Kashmir dispute; the people and the government of Pakistan have always extended diplomatic, moral and

political support to us and India must not be oblivion of the fact that the people of Kashmir want to accede with Pakistan for which they are struggling against Indian tyranny”, he added.

The Prime Minister AJ&K congratulated the president of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and all the members of Pakistani parliament for unanimous resolutions passed by National Assembly (NA) of Pakistan on Kashmir Cause. “ The resolution passed

by NA would not only strengthen the freedom movement of

Kashmiris against Indian oppression but also exert pressure on India which would have great impact on Kashmir dispute”, he held. Majeed congratulated PPP govern-ment for completing its tenure in Pakistan and maintained that PPP would achieve land slide victory in upcoming elections in Pakistan.

The minister Education schools Mian Abdul Waheed, Member Assembly Muhammad Hussain Sargala, Faisal Rathor, Javeed Ayub and Shazia Akbar also addressed on this occasion.

JKPFL urges UN to intervene in Kashmir situation I S L A M A B A D — C h a i r m a n ther support and credibility with massed its seven hundred Jammu and Kashmir People’s

the tireless struggle of the thousand military forces and

strongly denounced the Lok Sabha resolution on Kashmir as not being in conformity with the origin, history, and the current situation of Jammu and Kashmir, saying, “the occupation of J&K by Indian forces in 1947 has never been recognized by either the Kashmiris or the United Nations Organization as a just moral and legal step; and it’s still a disputed matter pending solution according to the relevant resolutions of the Security Council.

And this view gained fur-

years, although India made many efforts to interpret the unrest in Kashmir as a domestic question of center-state relations, or Pakistan backed terrorism, which it never was.”

He said that had the State been demilitarized, plebiscite been held, the root cause of the regional and local tension would have vanished; and both Pakistan and India would have become prosperous and welfare states to set example for other poor nations of this region. India paid no heed to it, but

JAMMU—Dr Jonathan Craig, Freedom League (JKPFL) has Kashmiris during the last 23 paratroopers in so small an

Senior Vice President, eni, Italy, and Chairman, MPRG, UCL, London and Prof. Bindra Thusu, Senior Research Fellow, University College, London, both of whom are Visiting Professors in the Jammu University, called on Governor NN Vohra here.

They were accompanied by Prof G M Bhat, Head, Department of Geology, University of Jammu.

Dr Craig, Prof. Bindra and Prof. Bhat briefed the Governor, who is the Chancellor of the Jammu University, regarding the arrangements and other details of the International Conference on “Sustainable Resource Development in the Himalaya” which is being organized jointly by the Geological Society of London and Jammu University, at Leh in July 2014. Over 200 delegates from various parts of the globe are likely to participate in this 3-day Conference scheduled to commence on 7th July, 2014. Delegates from various Government organizations and reputed institutes and universities within the country will also be participating in the deliberations.

The Governor while interacting with the Visiting Professors emphasized the need for sustainable development of varied resources in Himalaya, particularly the energy and water resources to meet the present and future requirements of the growing economy, with a focus on producing clean energy to protect the environment and ecology. —NNI

Execution of Afzal Guru against law SRINAGAR—Current News Service (CNS): breaking his silence after a long time, former president of State Congress, Ghulam Rasool Kar has revealed that he had written a three page letter to the President of India seeking clemency for Sopore youth Mohammad Afzal Guroo.

“I will release that letter at an appropriate time and people will come to know about my thoughts regarding Kashmir and Afzal Guroo,” Kar told local news gathering agency CNS and added that people of Jammu and Kashmir are facing severe hardships and repression has engulfed them.

Ghulam Rasool Kar termed the execution of Afzal Guroo very unfortunate and said that it would have better if he would have not been executed.

“I had told the people who are at the helm of affairs that Afzal Guroo should be sent to Pakistan to ensure the release of Sarabjit Singh from the Pakistan prison.—NNI

area, with their jackboots to crush the movement of freedom in Jammu and Kashmir.

Muhammad Farooq Rehmani said that since India’s current Kashmir policy had started revolving round hanging, and killing of Kashmiris in jails or sentencing them to lifeterm, besides subjecting them to atrocities and worst types of rights abuses, ignoring even international concern over India’s actions, it had become necessary for the people, especially the youths to protect their

Omar draws flak from Congress on calling Afzal as ‘sahib’ SRINAGAR—IHK chief minister Omar Abdullah, perhaps in a bid to offset widespread perception that he had approved of parliament attack convict Afzal Guru’s hanging, suffixed ‘sahib’ with Afzal’s name in the assembly drawing angry reaction from National Conference’s coalition partner, the Congress, on Sunday.

“It’s unfortunate that the Pakistani parliament and POK assembly adopted a resolution against the hanging of Afzal Guru and the head of our state government has equally glorified him,” said J&K minister Sham Lal Sharma, a Congress MLA from Akhnoor. Minister of public health engineering,

Sharma said leaderships at both the Centre and the state should be on the same page on Afzal and his hanging should not even be discussed since it was a Supreme Court decision.

Jammu & Kashmir will hold assembly elections in 2014 and Afzal’s hanging is fast becoming a rallying point and an emotive issue between the separatists and the mainstream parties. Omar was speaking on the return of mortal remains of Afzal.

Revealing competitive populism on Afzal, Omar released his letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, asking for the bodies of Afzal and Maqbool Bhat, JKLF’s founder-

DFP flays authorities for illegally detaining Shah

Indian army commits crimes in Kashmir: Kamal

SRINAGAR—The Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) has castigated the authorities for illegally detaining its Chairman, Shabbir Ahmed Shah, under draconian law, Public Safety Act. The DFP spokesman in a statement issued in Srinagar termed the assertion of the puppet administration as its frustration where it had stated that no PSA had been slapped against Shabbir Ahmad Shah. The spokesman deplored that the puppet authorities were aware about the ill health of Shabbir Shah and the treatment he needed, but they deliberately shifted him to Jammu under criminal conspiracy.

“Sheikh Abdullah failed to suppress the determination of the people and Shah. Omar Abdullah is new to the politics and he should learn from the history .—KMS

member, hanged in 1984 and buried in Tihar Jail, to be returned.

Political observers were quick to point out that Omar’s letter was released after PDP leader Mufti Mohammad Sayeed released his letter to PM seeking the return of Afzal’s body. Mufti described Omar’s suffixing “sahib” with Afzal as a political stunt.

NC sources said Omar has decided not to contest elections from Ganderbal and would prefer Amira Kadal seat. Conventional wisdom has it that Amira Kadal is safe for the party as the separatists impose complete boycott of polls in Srinagar city which helps NC win.—INP

MUZAFFARABAD: Chairman Prime Minister inspection Commission Sahibzada Muhammad Ashfaque Zaffar at a civic event.

Shinde’s dictatorial mindset harmful for Kashmir, India S RINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir Awmi National conference (ANC) has asked Union Home Minister, Shushil Kumar Shinde, “to study the chequered history of J&K to know that dictatorship had never succeeded in striking roots in the state as its people would always prefer to sacrifice their lives than to show allegiance to any Hitler”.

In a hard hitting statement issued from Delhi, Party’s senior Vice President, Muzaffar Shah, said the union Minister’s “dictatorial mindset” was immensely harmful for both Kashmir and India.

He was referring to Shinde’s refusal to return the mortal remains of Parliamentary attack convict, Mohammad Afzal Guru, hanged in Delhi’s Tihar jail in a hush hush manner on February 9.

The ANC Leader condemned the fidayeen attack on a CRPF camp at Bemina in Srinagar. He also condemned the killing of an innocent civilian, Altaf Ahmad, at the city’s Saidpora (Zoonimar) locality.

“The target firing on the civilian at Saidpora, where no law and order problem had arisen, reflects a dictatorial mindset for which there is no room in a democracy,” Shah said accusing the Union Home Minister of letting loose wanton use of force against innocent civilians in the state.—NNI

Bilal, Sajjad denounce India’s brutal tactics SRINAGAR—Senior leader of All Parties Hurriyet Confer-

JAMMU—Claiming that Na- to revoke this draconian Act. ence, Bilal Ghani Lone, has said tional Conference and Congress share same views on Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), NC’s Additional General Secretary Shiekh Mustafa Kamal has said Army is the major bottleneck in the process of peace in the State.

“We all know how Army and other force personnel are involved in killing of civilians.

How can a civilian killing be justified? The army and other forces are committing crimes in Kashmir. Army doesn’t want peace in Kashmir for the obvious reasons,” Kamal told reporters outside Assembly.

He said if army wants peace in Kashmir then they should not oppose the revocation of contentious AFSPA. Claiming that AFSPA has never served a purpose in Valley, Kamal said time has come for Government of India (GoI)

“AFSPA should at least be revoked from the peaceful areas.

If Army claims that peace has returned to Valley then why they oppose its revocation? I believe that AFSPA is not serving any purpose and it should be revoked,” he said.

He said militants can strike with or without AFSPA so it is wrong to say AFSPA is necessary to maintain peace.

Asked why Congress is silent over AFSPA issue, NC leader said it is wrong and hailed Saifuddin Soz for taking up this issue with Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde.

Probably this was the first time when any Congress leader from state has supported NC on this grave issue and advocated its revocation,” he said and asserted that both the parties same similar views on this contentious issue.—NNI

that India cannot suppress the freedom movement of Kashmiri people through arrests, harassment and other barbaric means.

Bilal Ghani Lone in a statement in Srinagar welcomed the passage of a resolution by the Pakistan’s National Assembly supporting the Kashmiris’ struggle for right to self-determination. He termed it as a right step in right direction.

The senior APHC leader condemned the use of brute force against the people by Indian police and paramilitary forces in Langate and other areas of the territory.

Kashmiri leader, Sajjad Ghani Lone in a statement issued in Srinagar while denouncing the arrest spree expressed displeasure at the clampdown of Hurriyet leaders and activists in the territory and said that disallowing dissent was not only undemocratic but also dangerous.—KMS

A dead Guru fires up Kashmiri Fidayeen to kill and be killed SRINAGAR—The Jammu and retary RK Singh’s statement in Bemina at 10.45am and Kashmir police was warned twice about the possibility of a major attack in the Valley less than a month after Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru was hanged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail.

The suicide attack that came on Wednesday last in which two militants and five CRPF jawans were killed, and 10 people injured, was significant for two reasons, Kashmir Watch quoted a report by Manan Kumar & Ishfaq-ul-Hassan as saying.

One, this is the first time in three years that Kashmir has seen a suicide attack. Two, this is only the second time in the 24-year history of Kashmiri struggle in the Valley that local youth have participated in a suicide mission. Security forces identified one of the two terrorists as a resident of Sopore.

This contradicts home sec-

that both terrorists responsible for the attack were from Pakistan.

The attack has therefore revived fears that arms struggle may return to the Valley following Guru’s hanging.

The warnings to the J&K police, issued by the Multi Agency Centre (MAC), one of the arms of the Intelligence Bureau, were based on information that members of the United Jihad Council, Jaish-eMohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and the Hizbul Mujahideen hold a meeting on February 13, four days after Guru was hanged. At the meeting, all present vowed to avenge Guru’s hanging.

The Hizb claimed responsibility for Wednesday’s attack.

The fidayeen, masquerading as cricketers, entered the J&K Police Public School playground

mingled with the crowd. They had concealed AK-47 assault rifles and grenades in the kitbags they were carrying.

“The CRPF party (at the playground) was waiting to be deployed for law and order duties when they were attacked,” VS Yadav, inspector general of CRPF, Kashmir, said. The CRPF retaliated and the two were gunned down in 30 minutes.

The toll could have been significantly more if the school had been open. It was shut because of a strike called by profreedom leaders who are demanding that Guru’s mortal remains be returned to his family.

Sources blame the government decision to hang Guru for the attack and caution that more attacks can happen if the sentiment stays.—NNI

India passes counter-resolution on Kashmir dispute NEW DELHI—In what looks Speaker Meira Kumar in Lok National Assembly of Pakistan to be a tit-for-tat move, India passed a resolution against Pakistan whose National Assembly adopted a resolution condemning the hanging and burial of former Kashmir militant, Afzal Guru, in New Delhi last month.

Both the Houses of the Parliament outrightly rejected the Pakistani resolution and unanimously asked the neighbouring country to not interfere in India’s internal affairs and desist from acts of support for terror elements.

In identical resolutions moved by Presiding officers

Sabha and Chairman Hamid Ansari in Rajya Sabha — both the Houses asserted that the entire State of Jammu and Kashmir, including Azad Kashmir, “is and shall always be an integral part of India”.

Emphasising that any attempt to interfere in India’s internal affairs will be met “resolutely and with complete unity” of the nation, Parliament asked Pakistan to fulfill its commitment not to allow terrorism from its soil if it wants peaceful relations with India.

“This House totally rejects the Resolution passed by the

on March 14,2013,” said the resolutions adopted unanimously by both the Houses after concern was expressed over the development.

Pakistan’s National Assembly on Thursday passed a resolution condemning the hanging of Parliament House attack convict Afzal Guru and demanded that his body be returned to his family. Pakistan’s resolution had also expressed concern at the situation created in Kashmir valley by the execution. It had demanded Guru’s body be handed over to his family.—NNI

Paswan urges democratic space for helpless Kashmiris NEW DELHI—Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) President and member of Indian parliament, Ram Vilas Paswan, has called for repealing draconian laws, Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and Public Safety Act (PSA), to allow a democratic space to the people of occupied Kashmir.

Ram Vilas Paswan speaking at a public meeting “Terrorizing to Counter Terrorism” organized by Center for Policy Analysis in New Delhi said that the Kashmiris couldn’t be made hostage at the behest of the Indian Armed forces.

Paswan was critical of Indian Muslims who according to him had been remained indifferent to the sufferings of Kashmiris. Describing AFSPA and PSA as anti-people, he said, “These have been used against people and have threatened their civil liberties. I vehemently call for repealing these Acts and we should launch an agitation by assembling at Jantar Mantar and even gherao parliament for getting this demand conceded.” He said that the Indian parliamentarians and the civil society members had an obligation towards people of Kashmir.

Paswan criticized the authorities for putting Hurriyet leaders including, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Syed Ali Gilani and Muhammad Yasin Malik under house arrest. “This is against the spirit of democracy and cannot be allowed,” said the LJP leader who had written to Home Minister protesting against detention of Gilani in Delhi.

Paswan said that hearts and minds of people of Kashmir could not be won through hard measures. “Unfortunately, media also does not play a positive role. —KMS

Kashmir exports 90% apple, requirement rising: Mir JAMMU—Stating that agriculture sector has been incentivized, the Minister for Agriculture Production Ghulam Hassan Mir has said that Kashmir valley is proud to cater to the 90% apple requirement of the Indian population.

“It is our duty to launch latest post-harvest projects under private and public sector to full fill the demand of the market which would help the growers as well,” he said while replying to the discussion on demand of grants of his department.

He said that three cold stores are functioning in valley and four more are in pipeline. He said that the turnover on account of export of fruits of the state has reached a level of Rs 4200 crores as on date.

Saying that there is tremendous demand of highdensity fruit plants among the farmers, the Minister called upon all the legislators to motivate the educated youth of their respective areas for the development of high- density nurseries of fruit plants for which the horticulture department is providing incentives under various centrally sponsored schemes.

He said Government has launched multipronged

strategies to promote agriculture and its allied sectors on scientific lines. He said as agriculture being the backbone of State’s economy, all the resources are being pooled to give fillip to production and productivity.

The Minister said that the Department has shifted its focus from the cultivation of food grains to total diversification in agriculture produce.

The Minister said that high income generating crops like fruits, flowers, vegetables, medicinal plants and allied activities like sericulture have been incentivized and encouraged. He said this will increase agriculture income and help to generate gainful employment in farm sector.

Mir said that the present Coalition Government has given special focus to this important sector by exempting tax on most of the agriculture inputs for the benefit of farmers.

He said that to make agriculture and its allied sectors profitable, thrust has been given to introduction of latest agri-techniques and use of farm machinery in farm sector to lower the production cost.

He said in this direction Kissan Melas-cumFarm machinery exhibition are being held at district level in first phase and now directions has been passed to conduct such melas at Panchayat level to make farmers aware about latest techniques and its utilization at their doorstep.

The Minister said that first time a mechanism has been adopted for close coordination between research and extension departments of SKUAST with agriculture and its allied sectors to percolate the benefit of new crop and fruit plant research to common farmers.

He said that stress is being given to revival of indigenous varieties of the State, adding that SKUAST-K has launched a pilot project for Muskbudej and Kambad for its revival as it has huge market potential at national and international level. He said that steps are being taken to bring other indigenous varieties under this ambit.

With the strenuous efforts of agriculture department, Mir said Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) of the State has gone up over the last four years from 10% to 24.78% in Paddy and from 10.79% to 29.77% in wheat and efforts are on to reach

the level of 33%, the national benchmark.

Saying that saffron is heritage cash crop of the J&K, the Minister said that an ambitious National Mission for the rejuvenation of saffron in the State, with an investment of Rs 372.18 crores has been launched.

It is expected that production of saffron would double in the State by the end of four years. He said under the mission more and more areas are being covered under the saffron cultivation and SKUAST-K has been asked to find the feasibility of other areas in valley where this heritage crop would be cultivated for boosting the rural economy.

Mir said that Department of Agriculture, Jammu has taken up market intervention for the last two years to prevent distress sale of their foodgrains produce by farmers. He said Agriculture Department Jammu facilitated an all-time high procurement of 92,499.45 quintals of wheat grains and 36,118.95 qtls of paddy grains by FCI with the active involvement of the CAPD Department.

The Minister said the Chakroi Seed Multi-

plication Farm is being developed and upgraded at a cost of Rs.30 crores in Jammu Division for production of high quality Basmati seeds of traditional variety of R S Pura.

Besides in order to further increase the production/ productivity of local Basmati variety of R S Pura, measures are also being taken under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes like Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, National Food Security Mission and Macro Management of Agriculture. So far an amount of Rs 11.5 crore stands utilized on this account, he added. The Minister said under Command Area Development, 16 projects are under execution in J&K State with total command area of 1,68,922 hectares, out of which 69,536 hectors have been covered by way of construction of field channels and field drains.

Saying that Sericulture continues to be a subsidiary occupation for rural families of the State, the Minister said annually 900 MTs of cocoon are being produced to generate an income of Rs 11.93 crore for silkworm rears. The income generation has shown an increase of 24% over the previous years.—NNI

Asian markets HONG KONG—Asian markets tumbled on Monday and the euro sank as eurozone fears returned on news that Cyprus was planning to tax bank depositors as part of a controversial bailout. Wall Street also provided a weak lead, with the Dow seeing its first loss after a 10-day rally as data pointed to ongoing softness in the US economy.

Tokyo fell 2.71 percent, or 340.32 points, to end at 12,220.63, Sydney slipped 2.05 percent, or 104.8 points, to 5,015.4, a two-week low, while Seoul ended 0.92 percent lower, sliding 18.32 points to 1,968.18. Hong Kong lost 2.00 percent, or 449.75 points, to end at 22,083.36 and Shanghai shed 1.68 percent, or 38.38 points, to 2,240.02.

Investors have been spooked by news that Cyprus agreed to a levy of up to 10 percent on bank depositors as part of a deal with fellow eurozone countries and international creditors in order to qualify for a $13 billion bailout.—APP

Biggest refinery of the country comes on line LSE downs by 59.87 points

Refining capacity to jump from 12.5m to 18m MTs AMANULLAH KHAN KARACHI—Pakistan’s biggest refinery BYCO with a capacity of 1.2 million tons is set to go into production to enhance current capacity of 12.5 million tons to 18.5 million metric tons shortly.

Byco’s newly completed 120,000 (ie ~ 6.00 million tons per annum) bpd oil refinery, largest in the country, successfully completed its 72hour continuous performance test run at 60% of its capacity over the week-end.

During the performance test run operation the refinery produced fully on-specification petroleum products such as naphtha, kerosene, HSD and HSFO. Following the 72 hour run the newly constructed refinery has completed all critical tests which render assurance to credible mechanical integrity and operability. As a

result, the refinery is ready in all respects for production of petroleum products.

Speaking on this momentous occasion, Mr. Qaiser Jamal, CEO, Byco Oil Pakistan Limited, said, “We are thankful to Allah Almighty that this refinery project once a vision has today been transformed into reality. It is also a matter of pride that project construction and proving trial run has all been done using indigenous expertise thus BOPL reposed huge confidence in pure Pakistani human resource.

This has not only given exposure to our people but also saved considerable foreign exchange for the government. We had to counter many detractors who, despite their unrelenting efforts, failed to dim our spirits. The result, today Pakistan’s largest refining complex is ready to serve the Nation”.

This new refinery will greatly

enhance the domestic refining capacity, taking the current capacity of ~ 12.5 million metric tons per annum to ~ 18.5 million metric tons per annum and based on full throughput is expected to produce on an annual basis about 1.6 million tons HSFO, 2.4 million tons HSD, 1.1 million tons of MS and0.8 million tons of LPG. It is very important to note that as all of these products are deficit and therefore, imported, the refinery will substitute imports by providing locally refined petroleum products.

This will substantially help save foreign exchange for the Country and help move towards self sufficiency in refining capacity. Headquartered in Karachi, Byco is an emerging energy company engaged in the business of oil refining, petroleum marketing, chemicals manufacturing and petroleum infrastructure logistics.

Oil prices down SINGAPORE—Oil prices eased on Monday on eurozone fears after Cyprus said it planned to tax bank deposits to win bailout cash while a US survey showed a dip in consumer confidence, analysts said. New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in April, dropped $1.02 to $92.43 a barrel in the afternoon and Brent North Sea crude for May delivery shed $1.20 to $108.62. Eurozone finance ministers and the International Monetary Fund on Saturday agreed on a 10 billion-euro ($13 billion) bailout deal for Cyprus, the fifth eurozone member to be saved from bankruptcy. Under the deal, deposits of more than 100,000 euros ($129,000) will be hit with a 9.9 percent charge and RAWALPINDI: Manzar Khurshid Sheikh, President, RCCI and others with Director General Trade Organization.

6.75 percent for anything below that threshold. The proposal must still be passed by parliament.—APP

STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—Bearish trend prevailed in Lahore Stock Exchange on Monday as it shed 59.87 points, following the LSE-25 index opened with 4166.10 and closed at 4106.23 points.

The market’s overall situation also did not correspond to an upward trend as it remained at 2.034 million shares to close against previous turnover of 2.295 million shares, showing a downward slide of 260,700 shares. While, out of the total 88 active scrips 7 moved up, 32 shed values and 49 remined equal.

Adamjee Insurance Company Limited, Nishat Mills Limited and Dewan Farooq Motors Limited were major gainers of the day by recording increase in their per share value by Rs 3.44, Rs 1.05 and Re 0.62 respectively.

Muslim Commercial Bank Limited, Pakistan State Oil Company Limited and Engro Corporation Limited lost their per share value by Rs 6.56, Rs 4.03 and Rs 3.15 respectively.

Maersk Utha, M.T Dong Calypso and M.T AL-Soor-II carrying containers, chemicals and diesel oil were allotted berths at Qasim International Container Terminal, Engro Vopak Terminal and FOTCO Oil Terminal respectively at Port Qasim on Sunday, 17th March. Berth occupancy was managed at the Port at 50% on Sunday where seven ships namely C.V Maersk Utha, M.T Sea Gull-D, M.T Bunga Melate Dua, M.T Mighty Ocean, M.T Dong Calypso, M.V Smart Jessica and M.T AL- Soor-II are currently occupying berths to load/ offload containers, cement, steel coil, palm oil, chemicals, iron ore and diesel oil during last 24 hours. A cargo volume of 78,500 tonnes comprises 69,000 tonnes imports and 9,500 tonnes exports inclusive containerized cargo carried in 1,200 containers ( 700 imports and 500 exports TEUs) were handled at the Port during last 24 hours.—APP

Rates for conversion KARACHI—The following rates will be applicable for conversion into rupees of Foreign Currency Deposits, Dollar Bearer Certificates, Foreign Currency Bearer Certificates, Special U.S. Dollar Bonds and profits thereon by all banks and for providing Forward Cover on Foreign Currency Deposits (excluding F.E. 25 deposits) by the State Bank on March 19, 2013. The rates are U.S. Dollar Rs 98.1203, Japanese Yen Rs 1.0327, Pound Sterling Rs 148.4561 and Euro 127.1738.—APP

“If you try to do something and fail, you are vastly better off than if you had tried nothing and succeeded.”

STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has issued show cause notices to the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC), Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) and Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) for, prima facie, abuse of dominance and collusion in the procurement of various categories of auto/power transformers in violation of Section 3 and Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2010.

CCP received a complaint from “7Aays Corporation” wherein it was alleged that the

NTDC, LESCO, FESCO, and MEPCO are abusing their dominance in the market of power/ auto transformers by allowing monopoly to MR-Germany made on-load tap-changers (OLTCs) although there are other manufacturers as well. CCP conducted an enquiry in the matter.

In terms of the Enquiry Report, it appears that the NTDC, LESCO, FESCO, and MEPCO are imposing an unfair trading condition on the suppliers of transformers by unnecessarily referring to a particular brand i.e. MR Germany in the bidding documents (despite the fact that a complete International Electro technical Commission (IEC) specification exist for the same), by insisting that the bidders sup-

K ARACHI —Sheikh Ali Bin Abdullah Thani J. Al-Thani, Chairman Pak-Qatar Takaful Group inaugurated Doha village for flood victims in Pakistan.

The construction for 200 families who had lost their homes due to the floods in 2010 was completed under the name of Doha village.. The project includes 200 residential homes, a mosque, a primary school, a health unit, shops and clean drinking water and sanitation facilities. Sheikh Ali Bin Abdullah Thani J. Al-Thani,

Chairman Pak-Qatar Family & General Takaful inaugurated the project on February 27, 2013.

The Sheikh Thani Bin Abdullah for Humanitarian Services (RAF) is one of many foundations established in Qatar concerned primarily with humanitarian work for relief and social development, both locally and internationally. The foundation is amongst a handful of charities that were focused on the repopulation process of the affected areas in Pakistan. The Foundation allocated a significant sum for the repopulation and establishment of the “Doha

ISLAMABAD—Ambassadors of the member countries of the

MULTAN—As many as 1500 European Union based in

Rs 111b spent on education projects in Punjab

nations, and an amount of QR 40 million was collected in one day.

While RAF was leading the campaigners for collecting donations, its urgent help was successively reaching the affected regions in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh, as field teams began distributing food, essential supplies and drinking water. This means that the breadwinners will go back to supporting their families, and this will lead to improving their economic and living conditions, and enabling children and students to pursue their studies amid special attention to their health.”

prosperity. SME development and entrepreneurship remain key focus areas for the bank on business and community fronts.

We are excited by this opportunity of supporting such a unique global initiative that recognizes rising and established entrepreneurs in Pakistan and beyond.

This is another side of Pakistan that must be – a forward-looking story of innovation, ambition, and achievement.” Over 80 Pakistan100 entrepreneurs traveled to Dubai for the Arabia500 Awards.

Deirdre M. Coyle, Jr., coCEO and co-founder of AllWorld Network said, “AllWorld is thrilled that Bank Alfalah has joined us in promoting and growing the Pakistan100 program. We feel that their support of the Pakistan100 only enhances their already solid reputation and commitment to the SME community in Paki-

stan. When no one expected much, the Pakistan100 broke all AllWorld records for growth, transparency and competitiveness. They are the personification of what every country dreams of having.

Now with Bank Alfalah on board we can only raise the bar higher and build Pakistan as a leading entrepreneurial nation.”

In the midst of challenging political and economic circumstances, the Pakistan100 broke many AllWorld records in relation to 15 other country rankings in the region, coming in only second to Turkey in terms of entrepreneurial growth and transparency.

Many of the companies have been founded in the last years, and have already grown to be industry leaders. An average of only 42 years old, most Paki

Continued on Page 14

PBC: Pakistan a safe destination for FDI

OBSERVER REPORT

ton of value-added kinnow was exported to other countries from Multan, an exporter said on Monday.

Azam Sabri said on Monday that it was for the first time such a big quantity of kinnow was exported to Dubai, Singapore, UAE, Russia and Bangladesh after passing through processing including washing in the city.

He informed that there was bigdemand of the fruit in Europe. Pakistani farmers could earn a lot by exporting the fruit to the market, he said.

He informed that the fruit was sold at low prices in the country. He added that State Bank imposed a ban on the export of Kinnow to Iran which resulted low prices in the country. He lamented that the counply transformers equipped with try had lost one big market beMR Germany’s OLTC, and by cause of the ban. rejecting the bids of the suppliers of transformers equipped with any other brand of OLTC. Due to this unfair trading condition the suppliers of transformers equipped with OLTC of any brand other than MR STAFF REPORTER Germany are unable to compete in the market. Hence it appears LAHORE—The Punjab governthat NTDC, LESCO, FESCO, ment has spent an amount of Rs and MEPCO are abusing their 111 billion on different educadominant position in the rel- tional projects during its five-year evant market for procurement tenure to improve and expand the of various categories of trans- educational facilities for the stuformers in violation of Section dents. Chairman Punjab Educa3(1) read with Section 3(2) and tion Foundation Raja Anwar Section 3(3) (a) & (g) of the stated this while talking to a 10Act. member delegation of different The show cause notices further NGOs working in the field of Continued on Page 14 education in Punjab.

Village Project” in Sanjarpur village, Tehsil Sadiqabad in the district of Rahim Yar Khan. Total area of the village is 11 Acres and total number of beneficiaries is around 1600-2000. The Project started in Oct, 2011 and ended in July 2012.

Sheikh Thani, Chairman Pak-Qatar Takafukl Group said: “As soon as the features of the disaster started to appear and began to unfold its destructive effects to the world that the Qatari civil society institutions rushed to rescue the victims and distressed people. So, a campaign was organized for collecting do-

K ARACHI —Bank Alfalah will be joining hands with the AllWorld Network as the lead program sponsor for the Pakistan Fast Growth 100 (Pakistan100) Program.

The AllWorld Network Inc., co-founded by Professor Michael Porter of Harvard Business School, launched the Pakistan 100 in 2012. This is a pioneering effort to showcase and rank the most innovative and dynamic fastgrowth private companies in Pakistan.

Speaking at the Arabia 500 awards ceremony in Dubai, Atif Bajwa, CEO Bank Alfalah said, “The mediumscale enterprise sector is the engine to fuel future economic growth by creating the next wave of employment, driving the economy and fostering

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Doha Village for flood victims opened AMANULLAH KHAN

AMANULLAH KHAN

1500 tons kinnow exported from Multan

CCP issues show cause PQ shipping activity notices to NTDC, 3 DISCOs KARACHI—Three ships C.V

Bank Alfalah joins hands with AllWorld

Islamabad held a meeting with a delegation of the Pakistan Business Council on Monday in Islamabad. The agenda for the meeting included the creation of favorable conditions in the Country for promoting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as well as greater market access to the EU markets for Pakistani exports. Welcoming the PBC delegation, Mr. Adam Thomson the British High Commissioner to Pakistan spoke warmly about the relations which the EU member countries enjoy with Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion the Chairman of the PBC, Mr. Sikander Mustafa Khan stated that despite all the difficulties that Pakistan was passing through, the country was still a safe destination for FDI and offering returns comparable if not better than those available in other emerging markets. He further said that Pakistan’s investment regime was the most favorable in the region and did not like some regional competitors discriminate against foreign owned businesses. On the issue of the GSP Plus market access to the EU, Mr. Khan hoped that Pakistan’s application for grant of greater market access would be looked upon favorably by the EU. During the subsequent ex-

MOL to acquire 30pc interest in Ghauri block STAFF REPORTER P ESHAWAR —MOL Pakistan has signed a farm-out agreement with Mari Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL) to acquire 30% interest in the Ghauri exploration block in Pakistan.

MOL has already a well-established presence in TAL Block in KPK and Margala Blocks in northern Pakistan. Ghauri block is a promising exploration opportunity, and lies close to MOL Pakistan’s Margala blocks.

Ghauri block is operated by MPCL with 35% interest; the other partner Pakistan Petroleum Limited also has 35% interest. MOL is partner with MPCL in Karak block as well.

Ghauri block is in its first exploration phase and the consortium intends to drill the first exploration well this year. Based on evaluations, the potential hydrocarbon is oil and natural gas. The transaction is subject to the approval of Pakistani government.

József Molnár, Group Chief Executive Officer commented: “In line with the exploration driven growth strategy of MOL, we continuously monitor new upstream investment opportunities. We are proud to deepen our cooperation with MPCL, a wellknown partner from several projects. We are pleased that we have concluded this deal resulting in the growth of our upstream portfolio.

Farmers participation yields positive results STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—The practical participation of the farming community in the canal management yielded positive results and on-going process of reformation of canal system greatly helped in the achievement of the target of food autarky as well as effective maintenance of the irrigation network in Punjab.

General Manager Punjab Irrigation and Drainage Authority (PIDA) Mian Maqbool Ahmad while presiding over a departmental meeting at PIDA headquarters averred this. Deputy General Manager (TM) Afzal Anjum Toor,

Deputy General Manager (Operation) Mian Abdul Rashid, Deputy General Manager (Social Mobilisation) Syed Shaiq Hussain Abidi and the concerned field managers also attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed in detail the performance of farming organizations, preparation of election schedule for the formation of 67 FOs in Lower Chenab Canal (West) Area Water Board, the status of abiana collection, review of updated guidelines to cope with the different socio-environmental issues while managing the irrigation projects as well as revamping of PIDA website.

change of views both sides agreed that in Pakistan’s case there were a number of low hanging fruit when it came to improving the business climate within the Country as well as greater trade promotion between Pakistan and the EU. The meeting ended on the note that both sides would lobby with the next government in Islamabad to promote Pak EU relations.

The PBC delegation besides Mr. Sikander Mustafa Khan included, Abdul Razak Dawood, Ali Habib, Asif Saad, Atif Aslam Bajwa, Bashir Ali Mohammad, Ehsan Malik, Hussain Dawood, Mian Muhammad Mansha, , Senator Osman Saifullah and the PBC CEO Kamran Y Mirza.

ADB president steps down after 8 years STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Haruhiko Kuroda steps down on Monday after eight years that has seen ADB transformed into a more relevant, responsive and results-oriented institution, helping developing Asia-Pacific countries reduce poverty and increase standards of living for their people.

Under Kuroda, the Bank’s longest serving president, ADB has grown as the region’s premier development institution, said ADB statement received here.

Its operations tripled from $7.4 billion in 2005 to $21.57 billion in 2012 including cofinancing, reflecting the region’s growing demand for development finance.

To support this growth in operations, he oversaw ADB’s first general capital increase in 14 years, which tripled its capital base to $165 billion, and two replenishments of the Asian Development Fund, which raised over $23 billion to help meet the needs of ADB’s poorest member countries, it added. In 2008, ADB adopted a long-term strategic framework to focus its efforts on promoting more inclusive and environmentally sustainable economic growth in Asia and the Pacific, along with regional cooperation and integration.

Flows into Asia bond markets raise risk of asset price bubbles STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Emerging East Asia’s local currency bond markets continued to expand in 2012, signaling ongoing investor interest in the region’s fast-growing economies but also raising the risk of asset price bubbles, said the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) latest Asia Bond Monitor.

“Emerging East Asia is much more resilient than it used to be but governments

still need to be careful that the surge in capital inflows doesn’t fuel excessive rises in asset prices and that they are prepared for a possible reversal in the flows when the economies of the US and Europe pick up again,” said Thiam Hee Ng, Senior Economist in ADB’s Office of Regional Economic Integration.

By the end of 2012, emerging East Asia had $6.5 trillion in outstanding local currency bonds versus $5.7 trillion at the end of 2011. That marked a

quarterly increase of 3.0% and an annual increase of 12.1% in local currency terms. The corporate markets, though smaller than the government bond markets, drove the increase, growing 6.2% on quarter and 18.6% on year to $2.3 trillion.

Emerging East Asia is defined as the People’s Republic of China (PRC); Hong Kong, China; Indonesia; the Republic of Korea; Malaysia; the Philippines; Singapore; Thailand; and Viet Nam.

Investors have been putting their money to work in emerging East Asia since the early 1990s, but the flows have picked up pace in recent years because of low interest rates and slow or negative economic growth in developed economies while emerging East Asia has enjoyed high growth rates and appreciating currencies.

Investment is increasingly coming from overseas, with foreign ownership in most emerging East Asia local currency

bond markets increasing in the second half of 2012. In Indonesia, for example, overseas investors held 33% of outstanding government bonds at the end 2012, while foreign holdings of Malaysian government bonds had reached 28.5% of the total at the end of September 2012.

The fastest-growing bond market in emerging East Asia in 2012 was Viet Nam, 42.7% bigger than at end 2001, largely due to the rapid expansion in the country’s government bond mar-

ket. The Philippine and Malaysian markets grew 20.5% and 19.9% respectively, while India’s market expanded by a strong 24.3% to $1.0 trillion. Japan still has the largest market in Asia at $11.7 trillion, followed by the PRC at $3.8 trillion.

Governments in emerging East Asia are increasingly opting to sell longer-dated bonds – another sign of strong market confidence in the economies of the region – which is making them more resilient to possible

volatile capital flows. This is particularly the case in Indonesia and the Philippines. Maturities tend to be shorter in the corporate bond markets of the region.

ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region.

USA

98.00

97.80

UK

148.09

147.79

EURO

126.50

126.25

Xpress Money, Summit Bank to offer remittance services STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Canada

95.76

95.56

ISLAMABAD—Xpress Money, the

Switzerland

103.95

103.73

Australia

101.59

101.38

world’s most dependable global money transfer brand, today announced its partnership with Ufone, to expand its agent locations in Pakistan. Ufone is a sub agent of Summit Bank, one of Pakistan’s premier financial institutions and one of Xpress Money’s foremost agent partners in the country.

In a statement, Xpress Money said the partnership will add over 148outlets of Ufone to its network in key centers across the country sprawling Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Lahore, Multan, Karachi, Faisalabad amongst others.

Rizwan Ali HamdaniCountry Manager, Business Development, Xpress Money, said: “At Xpress Money, we are

Sweden

15.19

15.16

Japan

1.0350

1.0329

Norway

16.90

16.86

Singapore

78.35

78.19

Denmark

16.97

16.93

Omani Riyal

250.00

246.00

Saudi Arabia

26.13

26.08

Hong Kong

12.63

12.60

Kuwait

344.43

343.72

Malaysia

31.28

31.22

Newzeland

80.75

80.58

Qatar

26.92

26.86

UAE

26.68

26.63

KR WON

0.880

0.0878

Thailand

3.312

3.305

SHC takes notice of illegal encroachment on PTCL land STAFF REPORTER Gold Tezab Silver Tezabi

51685.00 900.00

Gold Tezabi (24-Ct) Gold 22 Ct SilverTezabi Silver Thobi

51090.00 46710.00 970.00 895.00

Citi statement on 2013 CCAR planned capital actions NEW YORK—Citigroup announced that the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) has advised Citi that it has no objection to the planned capital actions requested by Citi as part of the 2013 Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (CCAR). The planned capital actions include a $1.2 billion common stock buyback program through the first quarter of 2014 and the maintenance of current common stock dividends ($0.01 per share per quarter). Any repurchases of common stock and common stock dividends remain subject to approval by Citigroup’s Board of Directors.

Michael Corbat, Citi’s Chief Executive Officer said, “We are pleased that Citi will be able to return additional capital to shareholders. Over the past several years, we have rebuilt Citi’s capital base and strengthened our balance sheet as well as shed assets and businesses not core to our strategy. We remain focused on our clients and allocating our resources to where they can provide the best returns and generate consistent, high-quality earnings.”—Newswire

Bank Alfalah From Page 13 stan100 entrepreneurs plan to establish another company in the next two years.

With a population exceeding 180 million people, Pakistan is the sixth most populous country in the world.

It is a rapidly developing country and one of the ‘Next Eleven’ along with the BRICs with high potential to become one of the world’s largest economies in the 21st century.

Further, the SME sector in Pakistan contributes 30 percent to the country’s GDP, employs more than 70 percent of the non-agricultural workforce, accounts for 35 percent of the value added in the manufacturing industry and generates 25 percent of export earnings.

Information on Pakistan’s larger companies and conglomerates is readily available.

However, younger and smaller companies suffer from a profound lack of visibility. Many smaller and dynamic companies, which may now only be employing 20 people, could grow to 200 or 2,000 if they had global visibility and investors. The Pak100 program will aim to highlight precisely these enterprises through its rankings.

Leading the 2012 Pakistan100 was the number 1 company e2e Supply Chain Management, which grew 1,918 percent between 2008 and 2010, with 2010 revenues above $50 million and 297 employees. Launched in 2005, e2e has risen to become one of the most successful end-to-end logistics companies covering Pakistan and Afghanistan.

I SLAMABAD —Sindh High Court (SHC) has today issued an interim order in favor of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) regarding the recent illegal occupation of the company’s land in Malir Halt, Karachi.

After hearing the case, the court agreed to PTCL’s submission and directed its Nazir to inspect the property and prepare a detailed report. The SHC has also directed the SHO, Airport Police Station to lodge FIR and strictly proceed according to the law as well as take all steps necessary to implement the orders of the Court.

On Sunday, some armed men illegally entered the said PTCL property, displaced the security guards of the company and started illegal constriction.

PTCL lodged a written complaint against the illegal encroachers in Airport Police Station but no action was taken by the concerned authorities.

It is pertinent to mention here that the aforementioned property is solely owned by PTCL and in the exclusive possession of the company.

CCP From Page 13 state that NTDC, by issuing the recommendation to purchase only MR Germany’s OLTC equipped transformers, and FESCO, LESCO and MEPCO, by accepting this recommendation, have prima facie entered into an arrangement for imposing a restrictive trading condition in the market for supply of transformers in violation of Section 4(1) read with Section 4(2)(a) of the Act. It would be pertinent to mention that curbing anti-competitive practices in public procurement is one of CCP’s priority areas of enforcement.

CCP has previously prosecuted several instances of anti-competitive behaviour in the power.

committed to provide convenient and faster remittance services to our customers. The partnership with Ufone is a significant step in this direction. By adding on more agent locations we are enriching our services, which in turn will help expatriates send and receive money quickly and conveniently, providing tremendous value-add on our existing services,” he said.

Summit Bank has brought on board Ufone as its Remittance Payout Agent in Pakistan recently to boost the portfolio it offers via Xpress Money. It has recently instituted more branches at convenient locations with extended working hours and weekend operations.

“The syndicate between Xpress Money and Ufone, will add to the growth of organized

remittance, ensuring that money sent by NRPs reaches their beneficiaries in a fast and secure manner. By addingauthorized outlets of Ufone to our network across prime regions throughout the country, Summit Bank is reaffirming its commitment to enhance the customer experience.

We have envisioned taking our partnership with both the companies to the next level of money transfer service,” said Mr. FarrukhMajeed – Head of Home Remittance, Summit Bank.

With over 4,800 agent locations in Pakistan, Xpress Money accounts for channeling almost 10% of the remittances to Pakistan. A prominent receive market, with an impressive 16.29% year on year growth, Xpress Money provides cash-to-home, cash-toaccount, cash-to-mobile.

FDI down to $500m from $8.5b STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—The Foreign Direct Investment which was $ 8.5billion in 2008 has now come down to $500 million because of inconsistency in policies, repressive tax system, and want of business-friendly policies.

This was stated by former FBR Chairman Abdullah Yousaf. He said that although there are a number of factors that could be blamed for this unlikely situation but frequent changes at policy level, regional instability and bureaucratic hurdles are the major reasons of this decline. He said that we would have to look into these issues to attract much needed foreign investment.

He called for increase in tax to GDP ratio to overcome the issue of fiscal deficit. He said that the phenomenal increase in country’s overall debts from Rs.6 trillion in 2008 to Rs.14

trillion in 2013 has also affected the economic activities to much extent. He said that the heavy government borrowing and currency devaluation could be blamed for huge debt that increases by more than Rs.63 billion when the dollar gains Rs.1.

He said that out of total Rs.2 trillion government revenues, 58% goes to provinces under NFC award while out of remaining 42%, Rs. 1 trillion is utilized for debt servicing, Rs.600 billion for defence and Rs.500 billion are spent on public sector enterprises including Railways, PIA, Pakistan Steel Mills and WAPDA etc.

LCCI office-bearers including LCCI President Farooq Iftikhar, Senior Vice President Irfan Iqbal Sheikh, Vice President Mian Abuzar Shad, former Presidents and Executive Committee members spoke on various challenges being faced by the economy.

Increase in R&D budget proposed STAFF REPORTER I SLAMABAD —R&D Budget should be enhanced and funds should be pooled with Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) like US National Science Foundation (NSF), it was proposed by the PSF Board of Trustees (BoT) during its 40th meeting on Monday.

PSF Chairman Prof. Dr. Manzoor H. Soomro, who also heads BoT, in a presentation apprised the newly constituted BoT about PSF performance during 2012. The President has re-constituted the 19-member BoT under an Act of Parliament after the tenure of previous Board was expired.

The board said pooling of R&D budget with PSF on US NSF will help boost R&D ac-

tivities according to the needs of the country.

The Board appreciated PSF Performance specially its research funding, science popularization and R&D Industry Linkage programmes. The Board members said the role of PSF and mass media in promotion of science promotion is commendable. The Board called for closer cooperation of the Foundation with mass media to popularize science at grass root level.

The Board appreciated Ministry of Science and Technology role and its patronization of PSF science promotional activities.

The BoT lauded PSF national and international collaboration programme to promote R&D research and science in the country and emphasized the need to further expand it.

Nestle NESVITA promotes bone health STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—Nestle NESVITA Calcium Plus announced ‘on Monday that it is supporting the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) by promoting bone health and spreading awareness about Osteoporosis.

During the ceremony held at a local hotel, the Nestle NESVITA Brand Manager, Zahra Arshad, said that the awareness campaign will include informational seminars on Osteoporosis. Through these seminars, NESVITA aims to reach almost 15,000 girls in over 100 colleges across Pakistan, communicating the importance of daily Calcium intake, spreading awareness about Osteoporosis and conducting free bone mineral density tests.

Educational segments with nutritionist, Dr. Farzeen Malik,

informing people about the seriousness of this disease, its preventative measures and general bone healthcare, will also be aired as part of the campaign.

“Osteoporosis is a serious disease which results in a high risk of broken bones. With its large and growing population of senior citizens, Pakistan will see an increase in the number of fractures due to Osteoporosis in the coming decade and t:lrgent action needs to be taken,” said International Osteoporosis Foundation CEO, Judy Stenmark. She added, “Women are especially at risk with around one in three women over the age of 50 going on to experience an Osteoporotic fracture. This is why the IOF welcomes efforts to raise awareness of early prevention strategies.”

Speaking at the event, President Osteoporosis Society of

ISE index gains 9.1 points STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—The Islamabad Stock Exchange witnessed a bullish trend on Monday as the ISE-10 index was up by 9.10 points to close at 3386.7. A total of 21,000 shares were traded, which were down by 13,000 shares as compared to previous day’s trading of 34,000 shares.

Out of 120 companies, share prices of 34 companies recorded increase and those of 86 registered decrease. No company remained stable.

The share price of Abbot Laboratories increased by Rs. 4.61, while that of Packages Limited decreased by Rs. 11.95.

Fatima Fertilizer, P.T.C.L and Allied Bank remained the top trading companies with 6,000, 5,000 and 1,000 respectively.

WBDC to hold three-day exhibition STAFF REPORTER PESHAWAR—Women Business Development Centre (WBDC) Peshawar in collaboration with WBDC Swat is going to organize a Three-Day Exhibition titled ‘Spring Summer Collection Launch’.

The Three-Day Exhibition will start from March 20 and will continue till March 22, 2013. The exhibition will be participated by incubates and rack holder of WBDC. Similarly, different designers from Peshawar and artisans from Swat will also participate and display their products.

The timings of the exhibition will be from 9:00am till 5:00pm.

Hidayatullah, Zafar appointed directors on SBP central board STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—The Federal Government has notified the appointment of M/s. Muhammad Hidayatullah and Zafar Masud as Directors on the Central Board of Directors of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) for a period of three years with immediate effect.

With these appointments, the SBP Central Board composition consisting of eight independent Directors, Federal Finance Secretary and Governor, State Bank of Pakistan has been completed.

The ten-member SBP Board is comprised of Mr. Yaseen Anwar, Governor, State Bank of Pakistan (Chairman of the Board), Mr. Abdul Khaliq, Acting Federal Finance Secretary (Ex-officio Member), M/s. Mirza Qamar Beg, Mehmood Mandviwalla, Shahid Ahmed Khan, M. Nawaz Tiwana, Iskander Mohammed Khan, Khawaja Iqbal Hasan, Muhammad Hidayatullah and Zafar Masud (Members).

Travel and tourism needs to get a boost BANGKOK—Travel industry leaders will issue a rallying call for politicians and government policy makers around the world to start “Embracing the Complete Visitor Economy” at the PATA Annual Summit, which takes place Friday April 26 in Bangkok.

Martin J Craigs, PATA CEO said: “If you want the travel and tourism industry to be respected more, given more budget from Government sources, and taxed less, we need to make the case forcefully. You are invited to join the PATA Annual Summit to add your voice to the uprising that’s underway in the travel industry across the world.”

An impressive list of speak-

ers will add their weight to the complete visitor economy agenda. From Associations, Organisations and NGOs, Taleb Rifai, Secretary General of the UNWTO and speaker from WTTC will be there; from Government, Gloria Guevara, Former Secretary of Tourism, Mexico; Chen Tiejun, Deputy Director General, Hainan Provincial Tourism Development Commission; from the private sector, Abid Butt, CEO Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts, Ross Jackson, Head of Cross-Border Business, APCEMEA, Visa Inc; Lothar R Pehl, SVP Operations and Global Initiatives, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Asia Pacific; Martin Verdon Roe, Global VP, Display Sales,

TripAdvisor; Pansy Ho, Managing Director, Shun Tak Holdings; Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, UAE; Sorajak Kasemsuvan, President, Thai Airways International; Anita Mendiratta, Managing Director - CACHET Consulting/Lead consultant of the CNN TASK Group, and many more, will all contribute their insights. TV anchor Monita Rajpal of CNN will moderate.

Abid Butt, Chief Executive Officer, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts said: “Governments and the public sector around the world have recognised the importance of the visitor economy with reforms being introduced to enhance this economic component.—NNI

Shamshad takes over as new MD NESPAK MUZAFFAR ALI L AHORE —Engr Tahir Shamshad, Vice President (Technical Coordination & Business Promotion, Disaster Management and Reconstruction Division) has taken over the charge of Managing Director/President of NESPAK. He has replaced Architect Asad I. A. Khan, who has served on the position for four years.

According to a notification issued on March 15, 2013 by the Ministry of Water and Power, Islamabad, Mr. Tahir Shamshad will look after the Company affairs. Tahir possesses an ideal qualification combination which include BE (Civil), MPhil (Engineering Management) and other courses in Engineering, Planning, Management and related subjects. Recently he has also attended a 10-day course at Singapore Civil Services Academy. He carries 32 years of rich and diversified experience of

handling more than 200 projects controlled by NESPAK either independently or in association with various International Consultants i.e. FEDCON of Thailand, Swan Wooster of Canada, Montgomery Watson, Harza International L.P. of USA, CDM Smith of USA, Binnie, Black and Veatch. of UK., Air-Consult, Flughafen of Germany, Fichner of Germany, Airport-De-Paris of France, Leningnerpromex of Russia, Bechtel of USA, Shankland & COX of UK & Kinhill of Australia.

Considering his strong background of various engineering and social sector projects, he was also chosen as Project Manager/ Divisional Head to lead the consulting team for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of 2005 earthquake affected areas. Besides handling the major public sector works under earthquake reconstruction, he also acted as focal person for reconstruction program of more than 50 donors

& sponsors countries.

Tahir also served on deputation as DG (Infrastructure) / DG Flood Coordination/ Joint Secretary Planning Commission, Member Engineering and Member Planning, CDA. He has also been on the Boards of several Federal Government Organizations as well as enjoys impeccable reputation during his long outstanding career. He is Member, Boards of Studies, Member Board of Faculty and Appellate Board of UET, Taxila and teaches various management subjects as visiting faculty member in various universities and takes keen interest in Industry Academia Linkage. Engr Tahir has been twice awarded Certificate of Appreciation by the Prime Minister of Pakistan in recognition of his outstanding achievements. He is considered to be an honest and efficient officer who strives hard to work within rules and regulations.

CDC sends account statement to all sub-account holders STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—Central Depository Company of Pakistan Limited (CDC) has recently sent Physical Account Statements to all Sub-Account Holders of the Central Depository System. The system-generated statements provide details about the securities position in Sub-Accounts in terms of balance available, and pledged etc.

Sub-Accounts are opened and maintained by Participants (brokers, banks and DFIs) who perform securities transactions on behalf of their clients. CDC has advised all Sub-Account Holders to carefully read the account statements and contact their Participant and CDC in case of any discrepancy.

The physical Account Balance Statement has been sent to

Sub-Account Holders as a onetime exercise for their information and reconciliation to help them better safeguard their investment portfolio. This activity was in line to the belief advocated

by CDC over the past many years that an ‘Informed Investor means Secured Investment’.

Talking about this activity, Muhammad Hanif Jakhura, CEO-CDC stressed that Transparency is not only the most important need of Pakistan Capital Market but also a core value of the Central Depository Company. “From time to time, we have taken measures to ensure that the Capital Market functions on transparent grounds. Although, the dispatch of physical account balances was a tedious and huge exercise, it was necessary for the benefit of Sub-Account Holders. Fur-

thermore, we have launched multiple channels for investors to access their electronic securities portfolio through our innovative service-range CDC access.

I would strongly advise Sub-Account Holders to take active interest in protecting their investments and subscribe to FREE-OF-COST CDC access IVR, Web and SMS. They can also subscribe to real time eAlert and monthly eStatement facilities by providing their email address to their Participant to keep updated about their account activities at all times.”

Central Depository Company of Pakistan Limited (CDC) is the only depository in Pakistan handling electronic (paperless) settlement of transactions carried out at all three stock exchanges of the country.

Pakistan, Dr. Akhter Ahmed, said, “Osteoporosis is a systemic disease, which mostly manifests in old age but starts when we are young. There are many modifiable risk factors which, when addressed, can reduce the incidence of Osteoporosis.”

Among those present at the event were renowned orthopaedic surgeon and President Osteoporosis Society of Pakistan, Dr. Akhter Ahmed, Managing Director Nestle Pakistan, Magdi Batato, Business Executive Manager Ambient Dairy, Amir Iqbal, Group Brand Manager Ambient Dairy, Fuad Ghazanfar, Brand Manager Nestle NESVITA, Zahra Arshad, and Brand Ambassador Nestle NESVITA, Mahira Khan.

Nestle is a member of the IOF, which leads a global initiative promoting the maintenance of bone, muscle and joint KARACHI: Anjum Amin Mirza, Director Corporate Services PIA addressing cargo managers. Also seen in the picture are health as a worldwide priority. Shahid Khoso, General Manager Cargo and Saeed Khan, General Manager Passenger Handling Services.

Dismal performance by DISCOs during last 5 years STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD—Despite the involvement of USAID Power Distribution System announced in 2009 to increase the capability of power managers and guide the power distribution companies to decrease the line losses and improve revenue collection, the government showed its inability to manage as the government-owned power distribution companies (DISCOs) put up a dismal performance increasing the losses from Rs.119 billion in 2008 to Rs. 207 billion in 2012.

These eight governmentowned power distribution companies include Quetta Electricity Supply Company (QESCO), Peshawar Electricity Supply Company (PESCO), Hyderabad Electricity Supply Company (HESCO), Islamabad Electricity Supply Company (IESCO), Lahore Electricity Supply Company (LESCO), Faisalabad Electricity Supply Company (FESCO), Multan Electricity Power Company (MEPCO), Gujranwala Electricity Power Company (GEPCO).

According to sources, QESCO’s performance had been worst during the period

under review as the recoveries declined from 86 per cent in 2008 to 36 per cent in 2012, PESCO was the second worst power distribution that failed in improving the recovery position as the percentage of recovery went down from 92 per cent in 2008 to 68 per cent in 2012 showing a decline of 26.2 per cent. HESCO was also included in the top three power distribution companies that could not muster improvement in recoveries in the power losses that jumped up to 10.2 per cent decreasing from 77 per cent in 2008 to 69 per cent in 2012.

The five companies almost

remained static as far as the recoveries in losses are concerned: IESCO and LESCO from 98 to 96 per cent; FESCO from 99 to 98 per cent; MEPCO and GEPCO remained unchanged with 98 per cent during the period under discussion.

PESCO topped the table in bad performance with purchase of 13,101 units as against 8,528 sold registering a loss of 4,573 units with a loss percentage of 35; KESE was second on this table with purchase of 15,259 units as against 10,279 sold registering a loss of 4,980 units with a percentage of 33; HESCO maintained the overall

third position with purchase of 4,679 units as against 3,381 sold registering a loss of 1,298 units with a percentage of 28; QESCO followed them with purchase of 5,159 units as against 4,086 sold registering a loss of 1,073 units with a percentage of 21.

The losses for the remaining DISCOS were 19 per cent for MEPCO, 14 per cent for LESCO, 11 per cent for GEPCO and FESCO, and 10 per cent for IESCO for the year 2012.

The overall (distribution + recovery) losses incurred by the eight government owned power distribution companies (DIS-

COS) and KESC are Rs.207,366 million the break-up of which is: PESCO: (32,514+11275) Rs.43,789 million; KESC: (35,408+13,778) Rs.49,185 million; HESCO: (9,229+9,899) Rs.19,127 million; QESCO: (7,629+21,726) Rs.29,355 million; MEPCO: (17,114+2,705) Rs.19,818 million; LESCO: (16,069+6,078) Rs.22,147; GEPCO: (5,553+948) Rs.6,501; FESCO: (7,366+1,322) 8,688; IESCO: (5,645+3,113) Rs.8,559.

USAID Power Distribution System was announced by the then US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2009

as being among the United States’ efforts to support the Government of Pakistan in reforming the power sector.

It should have helped the DISCOS to improve their commercial performance in terms of reducing losses, increasing revenues and improving customer services through the introduction of new technology and improved work practices for which it was mandated, however, no serious efforts with sincerity were made by the outgoing government to improve the situation of power sector.

Obama’s Mideast visit

Venezuela election rivals clash over crime

At the root of the country’s vamped the main investigative dent blames violent crime on a CARACAS—Moments after he eyes of his late boss, Hugo shamelessly stoking fears to tarJ ERUSALEM —U.S. President Barack registered to run in Venezuela’s Chavez. “We’ll go without fear, nish Chavez’s socialist “revolu- crime problem, experts say, is a police unit last year, created sev- decadent legacy left behind by

Obama is due to make his first official visit to Israel and the Palestinian Territories this week, looking to improve ties after sometimes rocky relations with both sides during his first term in office. Obama is not expected to come with any new Palestinian peace initiative and will spend most of his time in Israel, the closest U.S. ally in the Middle East, where he will make a keynote speech to hundreds of students. The American president will hold separate talks with both Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who finally formed a new coalition on Friday after a January election that weakened his grip on government. Here are some of the issues that are likely to dominate the March 20-22 visit Israel and the United States agree that Iran should never get a nuclear bomb, dismissing Tehran’s repeated assertion that its atomic programme is peaceful. However, the two allies are at odds over how fast the clock is ticking down on the need for preventative military action should diplomacy fail. Netanyahu last year set a “red line” for Iran’s nuclear programme, saying the Islamic Republic should not be allowed to obtain 240 kg (530 lb) of 20 percent enriched uranium. Israeli officials have warned this tipping point could be reached by the spring or summer of 2013, although experts believe Iran has since slowed its stockpiling of 20 percent fissile uranium to ward off the threat of attack. Obama said on March 14 that Iran was still more than a year away from developing a nuclear weapon and repeated his assurance to Israel that military force remained a U.S. option. Israeli officials, who see Iran’s nuclear advances as an existential threat, make no secret of the fact that they would prefer to see the U.S. military, with its greater firepower, tackle Iran’s far-flung atomic installations. Tehran is improving its defences and Israel worries that sooner rather than later Israeli warplanes will not be able to destroy this infrastructure. This would mean its own military option would be off the table, leaving Israel utterly reliant on Washington.—Reuters

April 14 election, acting President Nicolas Maduro vowed to go on foot, unarmed, into the toughest slums of Caracas and ask the gangs there to lay down their guns. Venezuela’s acting President Nicolas Maduro (C) greets supporters as he leaves Petare neighbourhood in Caracas. Both Maduro and his opponent, Henrique Capriles, have clashed over a top campaign issue: the daily murders, armed robberies and kidnappings that make the South American country one of the most dangerous in the world.

“We’ll go like this, with our chests bare!” Maduro cried at one recent campaign event, pulling open his Venezuelanflag tracksuit top to reveal a red T-shirt emblazoned with the

to tell these youths to stop the killing, to give up the guns, to come to Christ the Redeemer!”

Fears about personal safety routinely top polls of voters’ concerns in the country with the world’s biggest oil reserves despite the many programs started by Chavez during his 14year rule aimed at bringing down the homicide figures.

In a report last week, the U.N. Development Program said that only Honduras, El Salvador, Ivory Coast and Jamaica had worse rates than Venezuela’s 45.1 murders per 100,000 people. The rate in the United States was 4.2. The Venezuelan government concedes the country suffers more violent crime than most of the region. But it accuses opposition politicians of exaggerating the problem and

tion.”

Capriles, a 40-year-old centrist state governor who accuses Maduro of exploiting the emotion over Chavez’s March 5 death in an effort to win the election, kicked off a provincial tour over the weekend. He calls Maduro a poor imitation of Chavez and mocked his performance outside the electoral authority offices.

“Do you think Nicolas is going to solve the violence problem? It’s not opening your jacket and saying ‘I’m Superman and I’m going to go I don’t know where,’” Capriles said. “I’d like to leave my house at 11, 12 o’clock in the night, for my children to be able to go out and me not to be terrified. Can we do that today? Can we live like that? No.”

proliferation of firearms and drugs, and a weak justice system that means the majority of offenses go unpunished. Among a spate of attacks on prominent victims, a U.S. Major League baseball player and diplomats from Mexico, Chile, Belarus and Costa Rica have been kidnapped in recent months.

The government says there were 16,000 homicides nationwide last year. Non-governmental organizations put the figure higher. The Venezuelan Violence Observatory said its conservative estimate for 2012 was more than 21,000 murders.

Without detailed figures from the authorities, it is not possible to crosscheck the numbers.

Stung by allegations that the situation is out of control, Chavez’s administration re-

eral new public safety bodies, and said it cut the homicide rate in Caracas by 10 percent. Most afflicted by the gangs of criminals are poor r living in the myriad shantytowns where the late president found his most fervent followers. Voters seldom held Chavez personally responsible for the high crime rate.

Some viewed him almost as a member of the family, others in near-religious terms. Maduro is trying to forge the same emotional bond but lacks Chavez’s charisma.

On Sunday, he inaugurated a new sports facility in the capital’s gritty Petare barrio, briefly taking to the court to play basketball with a group of youths. There were wild cheers when he made a basket on his third attempt. The acting presi-

capitalist governments in the OPEC nation.

“They’ve given us these values from birth through narco-TV shows, fashion linked subliminally to drug consumption, fashion linked to pistols, and the cults of guns and of criminal gangs,” he said after he registered his candidacy for the presidency. He accuses the opposition of cynically allowing bandits to roam unchecked - for example, in Miranda state, which includes poor parts of Caracas and where Capriles is governor.

“You know why?” Maduro said to the crowd. “Because they don’t care about people’s lives.

They prefer barrios that are full of drugs and criminality so they can continue stigmatizing the people like they have done for the last 500 years.—Reuters

Aussies relax arms ban on Myanmar C ANBERRA —Australia will barring Nobel laureate and op-

Yemen’s reform conference SANAA—Yemeni leaders trying to end political upheaval and separatist demands met to chart a new constitution on Monday, the scale of their task underscored by protesters who marched in their tens of thousands in the south to demand their own state. Stabilizing Yemen, a U.S. ally grappling with al Qaeda militants, southern secessionists and northern rebels, is an international priority due to fears of disorder in a state that flanks oil superpower Saudi Arabia and major shipping lanes. Yemen has struggled to restore normality since President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi was elected in February 2012 following a year of Arab Springstyle protests that forced his predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh to step down after 33 years in power. Hadi, opening a so-called national dialogue conference expected to last six months, said the restive south was the main challenge facing the discussions. “Any attempt to impose a vision to deal with this (southern) issue by force will lead to big failure and big dangers,” he said. The conference would Policemen walk past the scene of an explosion near the presidential palace in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu. place the first building blocks of a “new, unified, safe and free Yemen,” he added. The talks, promised under a Gulf-brokered deal and intended to pave the way for elections in 2014, are expected to cover reforms of the military that would reduce the influence of army factions loyal to Saleh, still seen as a powerful politician. As about 565 delegates from across the political spectrum were taking their seats at the talks in the capital Sanaa in the north, tens of thousands of defiant demonstrators gathered in the southern city of Aden to deMOGADISHU—A car bomb exmand secession. Flags of a once independent southern Yemeni country ISTANBUL—Syria’s main op- member and former head of its and millions of people pushed ploded near the presidential palfluttered from cars and buildings across the port city. Those who are position coalition began a push predecessor, the Syrian National from their homes by the vio- ace in the Somali capital taking part as representatives of the Southern Movement do not rep- Monday to form an interim gov- Council. “Now people are con- lence. The U.N. says more than Mogadishu on Monday, killing resent us. They represent themselves.” “The people of the south will ernment to provide services to vinced that a government is nec- 70,000 people have been killed. at least 10 people in a blast that continue their peaceful struggle for independence,” he added. South people living in parts of the essary.” But in a stance that Rebel progress against govern- appeared to target senior governYemen emerged as an independent state, separate from North Yemen, country now controlled by rebel could frustrate their Western ment forces since last summer ment officials, police said. The when Britain withdrew in 1967 from areas it controlled along the forces. The effort is the most supporters, including the United has expanded the areas con- suicide attacker detonated exArabian Peninsula’s southern coastline.—Reuters serious yet by the forces oppos- States, coalition members dis- trolled by rebel forces. They plosives while driving along a ing President Bashar Assad to missed any possibility of nego- now run a large swath of terri- boulevard that runs between the Egypt averse to ink polls with IMF establish a rival administration tiating with the current regime tory along Syria’s northern bor- palace and the national theatre, CAIRO—Egypt rejected on Monday any link and bring together all the fac- and insisted they will talk only der with Turkey as well as much a route lined by tearooms that between stalled parliamentary elections and tions working to topple his gov- when Assad has left power. of the east, near Iraq. This has were engulfed in fire moments Many believe the only way to given them control of much of after the blast, senior police ofits drive to secure a loan from the IMF as it ernment.

They have no guarantee of accomplish this is through con- the city of Aleppo, Syria’s larg- ficer Abdiqadir Mohamud said. struggles with a budget and foreign currency crisis. Talks on Sunday between Prime Min- success. Two previous attempts tinued advances by rebel forces. est, and one provincial capital, A public minibus driving along “There has to be a military Raqqa. the road burst into flames. ister Hisham Kandil and a top International to form an interim government Currently, rebel areas are Policemen walk past the Monetary Fund official produced no agree- failed because of divisions victory on the ground to conments on anything specific, but had paved the within the group, the Syrian vince the regime or some ele- administered by an improvised scene of an explosion near the way for the arrival of an IMF technical team National Coalition, and some ments in the regime” of the need patchwork of local councils and presidential palace in Somalia’s soon, the government spokesman said. members said before the meet- for change, Ghalioun said. “The rebel brigades, many of who run capital Mogadishu. “The suicide Egypt’s Prime Minister Hisham Kandil at- ing Monday that it was unclear solution is not an end to the vio- bakeries, security patrols and car bomber targeted a senior tends the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in whether they would agree this lence. This is linked to pushing courts and prisons for criminals national security officer whose Davos. Egypt is seeking a $4.8 billion (3.17 billion pounds) loan time. Many have also com- the regime toward steps to a and soldiers captured in battle. car was passing near the thefrom the International Monetary Fund to ease an economic crisis plained of insufficient interna- democratic system.” Despite re- But more ambitious government atre,” Mohamud told Reuters. rooted in more than two years of political turmoil since the over- tional support for their initia- peated failures to bring about a services, like electricity supply “Most of the people who died throw of president Hosni Mubarak. Government spokesman Alaa tive. But many said that mem- negotiated solution to the con- and running water, are limited. were on board the minibus - ciEl-Hadidi said Sunday’s talks with the IMF’s Director for the bers feel a new sense of ur- flict, the United Nations-Arab In the last two months, various vilians. This public vehicle coMiddle East and North Africa Masood Ahmed had covered the gency, as the amount of terri- League envoy to Syria, Lakhdar members of the coalition, in- incidentally came between the loan, which was agreed in principle last November but put on hold tory under rebel control has ex- Brahimi, continues to push for cluding its head, Mouaz al- government car and the car one.

Khatib, have visited these areas. bomb when it was hit. Littered at Cairo’s request during violent street protests. “All the discus- panded.

Two years after the anti- Khalid Saleh, the Coalition’s in the scene are human hands “What delayed this before sion was about financial support or the loan that Egypt aims to obtain from the Fund,” said Hadidi. “There is no link between was that there was no agree- Assad uprising began, the con- spokesman, said these visits and flesh.”

Security in Mogadishu has the loan and parliamentary elections.” The IMF has appeared ment on the importance of flict has become a civil war, with made many realized the necesreluctant to negotiate a full deal given Egypt’s current deep po- forming a government,” said hundreds of rebel group fight- sity of an opposition govern- improved greatly since a military offensive drove Islamist litical uncertainty. Elections to the lower house of parliament, Burhan Ghalioun, coalition ing Assad’s forces across Syria ment.—Reuters rebels allied to al Qaeda out of which was dissolved in the middle of last year, were supposed to the city in August 2011. But start next month. However, a court cancelled President Mohamed bombings and assassinations in Mursi’s decree calling the polls and a state appeal against the Mogadishu, blamed on miliruling was postponed on Sunday for a week. The IMF has raised tants, still occur often. It was not the possibility of a relatively small bridging loan to help tide clear who was behind Monday’s Egypt over, and Ahmed was cautious on Sunday on the chances bombing. The al Shabaab insurof a loan materialising. “We agreed that our discussions would gent group that has claimed nucontinue diligently over the coming weeks with the aim of reaching agreement on possible financial support from the IMF,” BEIJING—China has become the eign Ministry spokesman Hong Myanmar, which has been merous similar attacks was not immediately available for comAhmed said.—Reuters world’s fifth-largest arms ex- Lei, asked about the report, said undergoing fragile reforms that ment.—Reuters China was a responsible arms exthe United States thinks could help porter, a respected Sweden-based Russia hostile to US Missile placement think-tank said on Monday, its porter which strictly adhered to in- counter Beijing’s influence in the region, received 8 percent of MOSCOW—A change in the United States highest ranking since the Cold ternational law.

“On arms exports, China China’s weapons exports. plans for an anti-missile shield in Europe will War, with Pakistan the main renot prompt Russia to drop its opposition to cipient. China’s volume of weap- sticks to three principles. First, that Bangladesh received 7 percent of the system, a senior lawmaker allied to Presi- ons exports between 2008 and it is conducive to the recipient the arms while Algeria, Venezudent Vladimir Putin said on Sunday. Alexei 2012 rose 162 percent compared country’s justifiable self-defense ela and Morocco have bought V ATICAN C ITY —Pope Pushkov, Chairman of the Russian State with the previous five-year pe- needs. Second, it does not dam- Chinese-made frigates, aircraft or Francis’ diplomatic skills are Duma Committee on International Affairs, riod, with its share of the global age regional and global peace, se- armored vehicles in the past sev- being put to the test in his first attends a news conference in Moscow. U.S. arms trade rising from 2 percent curity and stability. Third, it does eral years. audience with a visiting head of China does not release figures state: Argentine president Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel said on Fri- to 5 percent, the Stockholm In- not interfere in other countries’ day the Pentagon would add 14 new anti- ternational Peace Research Insti- internal affairs,” he told reporters. for its arms sales. Germany and Cristina Fernandez, with whom Now the world’s second-largest France ranked third and fourth on he clashed over her socially libmissile interceptors in Alaska, among oth- tute (SIPRI) said. ers, after North Korea had threatened a pre-emptive nuclear strike China replaces Britain in the economy, China’s rise has come the arms exporter list. China fol- eral policies. against the United States. To free up funds for that, U.S. officials top five arms-dealing countries with a new sense of military lowed only India in the acquisiFernandez calls on the said they were forgoing development of a new interceptor that between 2008 and 2012, a group assertiveness with a growing bud- tion of arms, though its reliance former Archbishop of Buenos would have been deployed in central eastern Europe and has been dominated by the United States get to develop modern equipment on imports is decreasing as it Aires Monday at his makeshift a focus of Russia’s concern that the shield would weaken its and Russia, which accounted for including aircraft carriers and ramps up domestic production. home, the Vatican hotel on the After decades of steep in- edge of the Vatican gardens, a nuclear deterrent. But Alexei Pushkov, head of the foreign com- 30 percent and 26 percent of drones.

At the Zhuhai air show in creases in military spending and day before she and other world mittee in the Russian parliament’s lower house, the State Duma, weapons exports, SIPRI said. said the change would not dispel Moscow’s concerns about the “China is establishing itself as a southern China in November, cash injections into domestic leaders attend his installation missile shield the United States and NATO are developing in significant arms supplier to a Chinese attack helicopters, mis- contractors, experts say some Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

Europe. “It would be premature to say that something has funda- growing number of important re- siles, unmanned aerial vehicles Chinese-made equipment is now Fernandez and her predecesmentally changed,” said Pushkov, who is also member of the cipient states,” Paul Holtom, di- and air defenses were on public comparable to Russian or West- sor and late husband Nestor ruling United Russia party’s parliamentary faction. “The United rector of the SIPRI Arms Trans- show for the first time. “Pakistan ern counterparts, though accu- Kirchner defied church teaching States is readjusting the missile defence system due to financial fers Programme, said in a state- - which accounted for 55 percent rate information about the per- to adopt a series of measures of Chinese arms exports - is likely formance of Chinese weapons is with popular backing, including and technology issues issues not related to the Russian position,” ment. he told Reuters. A Russian diplomatic source said Moscow was The shift, outlined in SIPRI’s to remain the largest recipient of scarce. China faces bans on mandatory sex education in looking into Hagel’s announcement and would comment in com- Trends in International Arms Chinese arms in the coming years Western military imports, dating schools, free distribution of coning days. Cold War-era foes Moscow and Washington have long Transfers report, marks China’s due to large outstanding and back to anger over its crushing traceptives in public hospitals, been at loggerheads over the shield in Europe and President first time as a top-five arms ex- planned orders for combat aircraft, of pro-democracy protests in and and the right for transsexuals to Barack Obama’s decision in 2009 to scale down plans of the porter since the think-tank’s 1986- submarines and frigates,” SIPRI around Tiananmen Square in change their official identities on 1989.—Reuters Bush administration only offered a short-lived respite.—AP 1990 data period. Chinese For- said. demand.—AP

Syrian opposition set to form interim govt

Car bomb kills 10 near Somali presidency

China replaces UK in world’s top five arms exporters

Pope meets Argentine president

ease restrictions on military engagement with Myanmar following democratic reforms since the country’s ruling generals relinquished their half-century grip on power in 2011, Prime Minister Julia Gillard said on Monday.

During a visit to Canberra

by Myanmar’s President Thein Sein the first leader from the former Burma to visit the Australian capital since 1974 Gillard said restrictions would be lifted on military humanitarian aid and peacekeeping, but an arms sales embargo would stay in place.

“What we’ve done today is taken a first step on defense relations between our two countries. It is not fully normalizing defense relationships,” Gillard told reporters at a press conference with Thein Sein at Australia’s parliament.

Since Myanmar’s military stepped aside and a quasi-civilian government was installed in 2011, triggering a wave of political and economic reforms, western governments have cautiously dropped or eased sanctions against the country.

But the government still maintains a constitution drafted by the generals and reserves a quarter of parliamentary seats for military personnel, while

position leader Aung San Suu Kyi from the presidency. The United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar last week warned that progress had been erratic in Myanmar, with around 250 political prisoners still behind bars and 120,000 people internally displaced.

Gillard said Australia, a rotating UN Security Council member and close U.S. ally, would soon post a defense attaché to its embassy in Myanmar, and would also provide additional aid worth $20 million to train the government in human rights. Thein Sein, a former junta general who has won praise for reforms since taking power in March 2011, said his government was looking to resource powerhouse Australia for investment and expertise in the country’s fledgling resource sector.

“We have to make sure that the extraction and exploitation of these resources is done properly,” he said. Shut off from most of the world for decades, Myanmar is Asia’s poorest country. Gillard’s government last year lifted targeted travel and financial sanctions on Myanmar outside military assistance, with aid set to double to $100 million a year by 2015.—Reuters

Sudan top army members held for alleged coup plot KHARTOUM—About a dozen members of Sudan’s armed forces have gone on trial on charges of trying to stage a coup against President Omar Hassan al-Bashir, a defense lawyer told Reuters late on Sunday. In November, Sudan arrested its former spy chief and other senior military and security officials after foiling what officials said was a plot to incite chaos and target leaders in the oil-producing African state.

Bashir has ruled Sudan for 23 years, weathering multiple armed rebellions, years of U.S. trade sanctions, an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court and the loss of most of the country’s oil with South Sudan’s 2011 secession. But the alleged coup attempt amplified a debate about Bashir’s future and about who might one day replace him.

A military court began the trial on Thursday for about 12 members of the armed forces charged in the case, Hisham al-

Ja’ali, a lawyer for the defendants, said. “The trial is still in its preliminary stages,” he said, adding that the trial of the armed forces members had been separated from that of the civilians and others. The trial for civilians and others has yet to start, Ja’ali said.

High food prices in Sudan caused by the loss of oil - and with it the source of foreign currency used to import wheat and other staples - has stoked some protests against Bashir since the South seceded in July 2011.

Some Islamists inside the army and the ruling National Congress Party have also complained Bashir and other senior leaders have abandoned the Muslim values of the 1989 coup and have concentrated decision-making in the hands of a few people.

But Sudan has avoided the sort of mass unrest and political turmoil that unseated rulers in neighboring Egypt and Libya.— Reuters

Kenyatta lawyers plead int’l court to close case A MSTERDAM —Lawyers for mony forced her to drop charges Kenya’s president-elect, Uhuru Kenyatta, will push the International Criminal Court on Monday to drop charges against him after the case against his co-accused collapsed. The case against Kenyatta, on charges of crimes against humanity over bloodshed in the aftermath of Kenya’s 2007 election, has been further complicated by his victory in a ballot which was held largely peacefully this month.

The case is also an important test for the court, which was set up more than a decade ago as the world’s first permanent war crimes tribunal but has only secured one conviction. Kenyatta and former civil servant Francis Muthaura were among six suspects initially charged by ICC prosecutors with orchestrating violence after the 2007 election, when some 1,200 people were killed.

But on March 11, prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said the decision of a key witness to recant testi-

against Muthaura. She said that would have no impact on Kenyatta’s case, which was closely linked. The status conference, or pre-trial hearing, was called by the judges in The Hague at 3 p.m. (10:00 a.m. EST) to look at the consequences of the withdrawal of the charges against Muthaura for the case against Kenyatta.

Kenyatta’s lawyers will call for the case against him to be dropped or at least postponed, said one lawyer who was familiar with the case but did not want to be quoted by name.

“The collapse of the case against Muthaura has a profound impact on the viability of the prosecution’s case against Kenyatta,” the lawyer said. The prosecutions are based on a lot of the same evidence. Both men have always denied any wrongdoing. Kenyatta, elected by a slim margin, faces a big challenge in bridging Kenya’s ethnic divides even without the court case.—AP

Sharapova bests Wozniacki to claim Indian Wells title utes.

The win in a match between former champions gave her a second title to go with the Indian Wells crown she claimed in 2006.

It was Sharapova’s first title since her 2012 French Open triumph gave her a career Grand Slam, and stretched her streak of years with at least one title to 11.

Sharapova put her foot on the gas early with a break in the first game and didn’t let up, firing winners off both wings and peppering Wozniacki with four aces.

She broke Wozniacki again in the seventh game, her only hiccup coming as she served for the set at 5-2 and made two errors to give Wozniacki a double break point.

Sharapova saved both with backhand winners, then sealed the set with an ace and a forehand winner.

The Russian opened the second set with another break, Wozniacki a bit unlucky with a double fault on break point as her second serve bounced off the net cord.

Wozniacki worked hard to extend the rallies, but she couldn’t penetrate Sharapova’s serve, her consultation with her coach in each set apparently giving her few new clues on how to do so.

Sharapova broke her again for a 5-2 lead, and served it out with a love game punctuated by a service winner on match point.

Wozniacki, a former world No. 1 who owns 20 WTA titles, has still never INDIAN WELLS: Maria Sharapova, of Russia, poses with the trophy after defeating Caroline beaten a top-three player in Wozniacki, of Denmark in their match at the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament. a final.—AFP

I NDIAN

W ELLS —Maria Sharapova beat Caroline Wozniacki 6-2, 6-2 on Sunday to win her second Indian Wells WTA title in emphatic

England, New Zealand 2nd Test draw W ELLINGTO N —England’s hopes of snatching a win in the second Test against New Zealand dissolved in the Wellington rain Monday, with the match declared a draw after the final day’s play was washed out.

The clash at the Basin Reserve ended with New Zealand at 162 for two in their second innings, still 49 runs in arrears after the tourists set an imposing first innings total of 465 and enforced the follow-on.—AFP

style.

The 25-year-old Russian, already projected to supplant Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka at No. 2 in

world rankings by reaching her first final of the season, broke Wozniacki twice in each set en route to the victory in one hour and 21 min-

Qatar to help boost Pak football LAHORE—Qatar Football As- comprised of 8 members insociation has agreed upon establishing a long term partnership for the promotion and development of football in Pakistan by providing technical and professional support to PFF in various fields including Youth Development, Training of Coaches and development of Women Football.

Decision was taken at a meeting between Qatar Football Association headed by its President Hamad Khalifa A.A Al- Thani, and President, Pakistan Football Federation, Faisal Saleh Hayat PFF at Football House here.

The Qatari Delegation

cluding Hassan Abdulla H.R Al-Thawadi (General Secretary, Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee), Ali Mohamed N B AlNaemi (Assistant General Secretary, QFA) and Tariq A. Aziz Al-Naama (Dy. Chairman, Aspire Academy).

“Training and professional facilities to the Pakistan National Team would be made available in Qatar as and when required.

QFA would also assist PFF in up grading its infrastructure and allied facilities vital to the development of football in Pakistan,” said a spokesman of PFF on Monday.

He said a detailed presentation on the marketing strategies adopted by PFF was also made during the meeting. QFA agreed to further study the proposals given by the Marketing Consultant PFF Sardar Naveed Haider Khan in order to further stimulate the game in Pakistan. The Marketing Consultant has also been invited to visit Qatar for further in depth studies of the proposals.

The close and fraternal bilateral relations between PFF and QFA were further strengthened as a result of this first ever high powered visit of QFA Delegation.—APP

BD umpire gets 10-year ban for fixing D HAKA —The Bangladesh Cricket Board on Monday banned international umpire Nadir Shah for 10 years after a sting operation by an Indian TV channel found him apparently willing to fix matches for cash.

Shah announced he would appeal against the decision, saying he had been made a scapegoat, but the move was welcomed by the International Cricket Council as underlining a commitment within the game to root out corruption.

The Bangladeshi board launched an inquiry after the private India TV channel aired footage last October which appeared to show that the 49-year-old Shah was willing to give LBW (leg before wicket) decisions on demand.

While the board did not publish the findings of the inquiry, it said in a statement that Shah “will not be considered for BCB retainership for 10 years”.

“During this period he will not be eligible for any assignment under the jurisdiction of the BCB,” it added.

Shah, who has stood in 40 one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals, was one of

six umpires caught in the undercover investigation, including three from Sri Lanka and two from Pakistan.

All of the six were subsequently suspended by their own boards but they have consistently refuted the allegations.

Speaking to AFP after Monday’s verdict, Shah said it was “part of cons p i r a c y against me”.

“Definitely I’ll talk to my lawyer and appeal against the decision,” he said.

“It’s a decision taken on the basis of TV footage. It’s based on casual talk sitting in a room in New Delhi in July 2012.

“Do they have any proof that I’ve taken money or given any decision in anybody’s favour? Is there any record?”

A lawyer representing two of the Sri Lankan umpires caught up in the same sting said he was pushing Sri Lanka Cricket for a speedy inquiry.

“We are asking for an in-

dependent inquiry,” lawyer Prathiba Mahanamahewa, who is acting on behalf of Gamini Dissanayake and Maurice de la Zilwa, told AFP in Colombo.

“You can’t act on the basis of this video which we think has been doctored.”

Pakistan’s board has said an internal inquiry against two of its officials, including former Test u m p i r e N a d e e m Ghouri, would be finalised shortly.

The allegations were broadcast only days after the final of the World Twenty20 tournament in Sri Lanka, knocking some of the gloss off one of the game’s premier events.

David Richardson, chief executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC), said the ban on Shah reflected a commitment among the games rulers “to root out corruption from our great sport”.

“This decision also reiterates cricket’s zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and should serve as

a reminder to all stakeholders, be they umpires, players, curators or administrators of the risks and challenges the sport faces,” said Richardson.

“We can only beat the corrupters by remaining vigilant and by following the procedures and protocols which are in place.”

Shah was among the umpires at the inaugural Bangladesh Premier League last year, a local version of India’s high-octane IPL Twenty20 tournament.

The competition was marred by corruption allegations and ended up with former Bangladeshi international Shariful Haque being indefinitely banned.

While ICC anti-corruption officials help to police the IPL, the international game’s governing body has expressed concern about other leagues including the Bangladesh tournament.

Cricket has been embroiled in a number of corruption scandals in recent years.

Three Pakistani cricketers, including former captain Salman Butt, were jailed in Britain in 2011 after being found guilty of spot-fixing following a newspaper sting.—AFP

ISLAMABAD: Students participating in sports event during Sports Week of Islamabad Medical and Dental College.

Ten countries confirm participation in Asian Snooker C’ship L AHORE —Ten

countries have confirmed their participation in the 29th Asian snooker championship being played from April 27 at Karachi.

Herath bags two late wickets to boost Sri Lanka

COLOMBO—Two wickets in two balls by left-arm spinner Rangana Herath in the last half hour of play on the third day tilted the balance of the second Test towards Sri Lanka on Monday.

By stumps Bangladesh, who trailed Sri Lanka by 106 after the first innings, were 158 for four wickets – an overall lead of 52.

Mominul Haque scored an attractive half-century in the first innings and was unbeaten on 36 second time around with Mushfiqur Rahim on seven.

Both batsmen would have been out before the close had the Sri Lankan fielders been sharper.

“It is a matter of great satMominul was put down at isfaction that Afghanistan, mid-on by Nuwan Kulasekara China, Hong Kong, Iran, In- when he was on 30 and Angelo dia, Mongolia, Philippines, Qatar, South Korea and Sri Lanka have confirmed their participation in the showpiece event of the Asian snooker,” said Alamgir A Shaikh, President, Pakistan Billiard and Snooker Association here on Monday. He SYDNEY—Speculation about vice-captain said the event will conclude Australian Shane Watson’s Test future on May 3.

He said the champion- was put to bed Monday with ship will help in elevating the an announcement that he will existing standards of return to India after serving snooker in Pakistan besides supporting the cause of the game at home.

“The participation of a number of foreign countries will portray a better image of the country in the present circumstances when the foreing teams have declined to visit Pakistan owing to security concerns,” he added.—APP

Mathews missed Mushfiqur at slip also off Herath, who ended the day with figures of three for 45.

Mohammad Ashraful became Herath’s first victim when he was bowled for four by a quicker delivery in the second over after tea when his off stump was sent tumbling.

A stand of 47 followed between Jahurul Islam and Mominul that carried Bangladesh to 143-2 before Herath struck twice in his 19th over.

He changed the complexion of the game by having Jahurul stumped by Dinesh Chandimal for 48 when the batsman lost his patience and charged up the wicket.

On the next ball, Mahmudullah was beaten up

Watson to continue playing Tests

Misbah blundered by not batting first: Sadiq K ARACHI —Former Test opener Sadiq Muhammad slammed skipper Misbah-ulHaq for deciding to field first instead of batting in third One-Day International at Johannesburg.

“Fielding first after winning the toss was mistake,” he said in a statement on Monday.

“Why Chase, why not set a target. No planning by the coach. Here the coach should have used his authority to tell Misbah to bat first if he wins the toss,” he said.

“Like the second one dayer, Misbah again made a blunder by not batting first after winning the toss,” he maintained.

Sadiq Muhammad alleged, “The homework of Dav Whatmore, captaincy and touring team management had been very poor in 2nd and 3rd ODI”.

“Coach and Captain thought after they won the 2nd ODI by chasing, they would do it again. They should have realized that in 2nd ODI match they were chasing a small total of under 200 runs, which is manageable by any team,” he said.—APP

a one-match ban.

The 31-year-old returned to Sydney last Tuesday after he was dropped for the third Test after failing to prepare feedback on how the team could improve and deliver it to management. Three other players were also axed.

Watson, whose wife gave birth last week, made clear he felt the punishment was overly harsh and said he would be considering his future, but has decided to battle on.

“Shane Watson will return to the tour of India and will fly out of Sydney tonight to join the Australian squad in India ahead of the fourth Test,” Cricket Australia said in a brief statement.—AFP

by a tossed up delivery from Herath and had his off stump knocked out.

Mushfiqur survived the hat-trick ball and was lucky to be there at the close.

Openers Tamim Iqbal and Jahurul provided a strong start to help Bangladesh reach 93 for one at tea.

On a surface which had flattened out at the R Premadasa Stadium, Tamim and Jahurul batted confidently.

Tamim, who missed the first Test through injury, was the aggressor in the partnership reaching his fifty off 67 balls with the help of one six and four fours.

He was dropped on 12 when Suranga Lakmal failed to hold a knee-high return catch.

A bowling change by Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews brought about the dismissal of Tamim, who tried to cut a ball from Shaminda Eranga but only succeeded in chopping it onto his stumps to depart for 59.—AFP

BD 1st innings: ......... 2 4 0 S Lanka 1st innings: 3 4 6 BD 2nd innings:

Tamim b Eranga ............ 59 Jahurul Islam b Herath . 48 Ashraful b Herath ........... 4 Mominul not out ........... 36 Mahmudullah b Herath .. 0 Mushfiqur not out .......... 7 Extras: (lb 3, nb 1) ............ 4 Total: (4 wickets) ......... 158 Fall of wickets 1-91, 2-96, 3143, 4-143 Bowling: ........... O-M-R-W Kulasekara ........... 7-0-21-0 Lakmal ................... 8-1-24-0 Herath ................. 23-7-45-3 Dilshan ............... 19-3-40-0 Eranga ................... 9-3-17-1 Mathews ................ 3-2-8-0

Shikhar Dhawan misses wife and parents on his dream-day appearance in debut Test BIPIN DANI OBSERVER CORRESPONDENT MUMBAI—No members of Shikhar Dhawan family were present at Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in Mohali on Saturday to witness his dream-debut Test against Australia.

“It was his first Test match and we didn’t want him to play under pressure”, his father Mahendra Pal Dhawan said exclusively from his Delhi residence minutes after the first day’s play.

“Shikhar’s wife and two children are in Australia.

(Shikhar married to a divorced Aesha Mukherjee in last October). We all watched the match on TV

here”, the father added.

“We are all happy with his performance today. It is a special momemts for all of us.

Not only because of his Test appearance ton but Team India’s strong position after my son’s very aggressive batting. I am aware he would have been out without fascing the ball in this match, but after all, he is a lucky to survive. We want him to score not only a double hundred on Sunday, but also India to win the Test match with big margin and thus series”.

Shikhar Dhawan’s father deals in plastic manufacturing items. “My son had no interest in family business.

He wanted to be the cricketer.

Former India umpire Ram Babu Gupta suggested us to keep him under the watchful

eyes of coaches like Tariq Sinha and Madan Sharma at Sonnet Clun and he registered first century at the age of 12. He won Man of the Series in Under-19 World Cup in Dhaka and since then we were sure about him playing in the national team”.

“We are thankful to India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and selectors for giving him a chance and he has proved them right”, the happy father added.

Shikhar’s two sisters-elder Shreshtha (married) and younger (Sisity, now studying in USA) and mother, Sunayna are certain to be proud of Shikhar ’s performance. All are hoping for his double ton tomorrow.

Why fast food makes you get fat

T

HE nutritional make up of fast food encourages people to gorge on it un intentionally, increasing their risk of obesity, research suggests.

Experts at the Medical Research Council found most fast food is very dense in calories - you only need a small amount to bump up your calorific intake.

They found that these “energy dense” foods can fool people into consuming more calories than the body needs. The research is published in the journal Obesity Reviews.

A typical fast food meal has a very high energy density. It is more than one and a half times higher than an average traditional British meal and two and a half times higher than a traditional African meal.

The researchers concluded that a diet high in fast foods will increase a person’s risk of weight gain and obesity even though they may feel that they are eating no more than they would if they ate an average meal.

Researcher Professor Andrew Prentice, of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: “We all possess a weak innate ability to recognise foods with a high energy density. “We tend to assess food intake by the size of the portion, yet a fast food meal contains many more calories than a similar-sized portion of a healthy meal.

“Since the dawn of agriculture, the systems regulating human appetite have evolved

for the low energy diet still being consumed in rural areas of the developing world where obesity is almost non-existent.

“Our bodies were never designed to cope with the very energy dense foods consumed in the West and this is contributing to a major rise in obesity.”

Professor Prentice drew particular attention to the consequences of a diet high in fast foods for children.

“Children have not yet developed any of the learned dietary restraint that needs to be exerted by anyone wishing to remain slim in the modern environment.

“It’s surely a stark paradox that the strategy used to achieve rapid weight gain in malnourished children in Africa - the frequent offering of energy-dense foods - has now become the norm for many overweight children in affluent societies.”

Dr Susan Jebb, of the MRC Human Nutrition Research Centre, said: “In many outlets, the choice is so limited that it’s virtually impossible to select a combination of items with even a moderate energy density. “You’d need to eat well below the portion size offered to avoid greatly exceeding recommended energy and fat requirements. “Fast food companies could play a major part in halting the rise in obesity if they adopted a more positive attitude to healthy eating such as providing meals of lower energy density, appropriately marketed and with point-ofsale nutrition labelling.”

Makhdoom asks people to elect right politicians LAHORE —Punjab Governor Makhdoom Ahmed Mehmood has said that election of right people by the voters could put the country on the path to progress.

He was addressing the newly-elected members of the Rahim Yar Khan District Bar Association.

He said that the parliament wrote history when it restored the 1973 Constitution to its true spirit, adding that the government had to face multiple challenges during its five year tenure.

Eulogizing the decision, he said the powers of the President and the Governor were delegated to the parliament for the first time in the history of the country.

Makhdum said that the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project would help overcome energy crisis in the country.

Punjab Governor assured the lawyers that 5 million rupees would soon be released LAHORE: Relatives of alleged suspects of Badami Bagh incident, demonstrating in support of their demands. to the district bars as per the promise of the President Asif Ali Zardari.—APP

Special children honoured LAHORE—The Special Education Department Punjab and Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) are organizing a ceremony for special children at Punjabi Cultural Complex here Tuesday.

Wheelchairs, white sticks, walking frames and other helping equipments will be distributed among the special children.

People from all walks of life will attend the event.— APP

City Police high alert after Peshawar blast LAHORE—Capital City Police

LAHORE: Girls taking interest in the pieces of art displayed at during an exhibition of “Glass Fusion Stained Glass” by Rukhsana and Saif Haq at Al-Hamra Hall.

Kalsoom Nawaz ladies park at Sabzazar inaugurated STAFF REPORTER LAHORE—Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that beautiful parks have been constructed throughout the province for providing recreational facilities to the people. He said that jogging track, gym, children play area, solar lights, canteen and walking tracks have been constructed in these parks.

He said that separate parks have been constructed for ladies where best recreational facilities have been provided.

He said that Kalsoom Nawaz Ladies Park spread over an area of 44 kanals has been completed in a record period of three months which is a gift for the ladies of the area.

He was talking to the party

workers, media men and women after inaugurating Kalsoom Nawaz Ladies Park at Sabzazar today. Pakistan Muslim League-N leader Mian Marghoob Ahmad, MPA Mehar Ishtiaq Ahmad, DG PHA, a large number of party workers as well as children and women were present on this occasion.

Shahbaz Sharif expressed his pleasure while inaugurating the sixth ladies park in Lahore constructed at a cost of Rs.2.25 crore where best recreational facilities have been provided to the women. Ladies gym, children play area, solar lights, canteen and jogging tracks have been constructed in this park.

He also congratulated DG PHA and his staff for con-

structing a best park. Replying to a question of media men, he said that PML-N has proposed the names of best and honest persons for caretaker setup in center and Punjab whereas PPP is objecting over it unnecessarily. He said that the process of further consultation for caretaker setup is also continuing in the party.

Earlier, when Chief Minister arrived at Sabzazar Park, he was accorded a warm welcome. Women and children raised slogans; “Shahbaz Sharif—Zindabad”. The Chief Minister inaugurated the park and gave away certificates to the PHA employees who displayed outstanding performance. He also visited the park and reviewed the recreational facilities.

PITB completes revamping of IT system in all boards STAFF REPORTER L AHORE —Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has completed the revamping of the IT system of all Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education in the province which has resulted in substantial improvement in the examination system, admissions and results compilation.

Giving details, Chairman Punjab Information Technology Board Dr. Umar Saif said that after improvement of IT system during last one and a half years, successful online

admissions of over 5.5 million students from 13560 schools and 3452 colleges as well as private candidates have been made. He said that automated allocation of exam centers to candidates and generation of roll number slips is being issued.

He said that it has also helped in third-party validation and detection of errors relating to results tabulation, scanning of answer sheets and compilation of results. He further said that these important milestones could not have been achieved without con-

tinuous support of Chief Minister Punjab.

He said that administration of all Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education of the province have also expressed satisfaction over the measures taken by Punjab Information Technology Board for the introduction of new IT system and uploading of relevant data. Dr. Umar Saif also thanked Chairman Planning & Development, Secretary Finance, Secretary Higher Education and Secretary Information for their cooperation in this regard.

Shahbaz for urgent implementation of action plan on anti-dengue campaign SALIM AHMED

L AHORE —Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said action plan to implement antidengue campaign should be initiated throughout the province while dengue larva eradication campaign has also been launched at union council level. He said a central control room has been established to collect complete relevant data. He said all necessary drugs and chemicals have also been made available to ensure eradication of dengue larva.

Chief Minister directed thirdparty monitoring of anti-dengue arrangements for which an effective institutional mechanism should be evolved. Chief Minister constituted a committee, under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor King Edward Medical University, for institutional mechanism of thirdparty monitoring. The other members of the committee are, Vice Chancellor Informa-

tion Technology University, Additional Secretary Health and Dr. Waseem.

He was presiding over a high-level meeting to review arrangements for anti-dengue campaign at Model Town Monday. Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Provincial Minister for Education Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, Special Assistants Khawaja Salman Rafique, Zaeem Hussain Qadri, leader of Pakistan Muslim League-N Hamza Shahbaz Sharif, Khawaja Ahmed Hasaan, Members Punjab Assembly, Additional Chief Secretary, secretaries of various departments and other concerned authorities were present on the occasion.

Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said all possible steps should be taken to eradicate possible outbreak of dengue as nothing is more important than protection of human lives. He directed launching anti-dengue campaign, throughout Punjab, in an effective manner for which re-

fresher courses for the concerned staff should be arranged. He said the work of outdoor and indoor vector surveillance should be initiated at union council level and dengue larva should be eradicated by adopting an effective mechanical methodology.

He said awareness about dengue virus has been made part of the syllabus, while a compulsory question on dengue has also been included in examinations to create general awareness among the children about dengue virus.

Chief Minister directed that special attention should be paid to ensure sanitation arrangements at educational institutions, while work should be initiated to establish a research and development centre, on war-footing, in order to permanently eliminate dengue virus. He said the role of Institute of Public Health with regard to elimination of dengue virus is extremely important there-

has beefed up security at sensitive installations and important locations in the wake of blast in Peshawar on Monday morning. While talking to media persons, Capital City Police Chief, Additional IG Muhammad Amlesh said he directed DIG (Operation) and all Additional SSP (Operation),including SDPOs and SHOs,to remain high alert to ensure foolproof security in their respective areas.

He directed the police officers to take effective precautionary measures, especially at crowded public places, to prevent incidents of terrorism and subversion.

CCPO ordered deployment of plain clothes police wherever necessary. “Police officers were directed to utilise all the available resources and their best professional skills to maintain vigil against suspects and dubious elements”, he said.

He has urged people to cooperate with police in this regard. In case people find any unclaimed baggage, spot a shady character or activity they must immedi- LAHORE: Journalists holding a demonstration in support of their demands. ately inform police emergency and Rescue 15.—APP

Japanese counsellor visits PU

PML-N, JUP-N strike mutual polls bargain

STAFF REPORTER

L AHORE —Japan Embassy L A H O R E —Senior Islamabad Counsellor Toshikazu Isomura visited Punjab University during his visit to the provincial metropolis here Monday.

Director Students Affairs PU Shahid Mahmood Gul received the dignitary at the Directorate of Students Affair New Campus.

Speaking fluent Urdu, the Counsellor introduced the scholarship programme being offered by the Japanese government for Pakistani students. The Japanese counsellor also spoke at length about his student days at the Punjab University in 1985.—APP

Vice President Jamiat-e-Ulema Pakistan (JUP) Maulana Shah Muhammad Awais Noorani, Chairman Supreme Council Pir Ijaz Ahmad Hashmi and Central General Secretary Qari Zawar Bahadur called on Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif at Model Town Monday and discussed overall political situation of the country and matters relating to cooperation in general elections.

Agreeing on cooperation in general elections between Pakistan Muslim

League-N and Jamiat-eUlema Pakistan, a committee was found on the occasion comprising Khawaja Saad Rafique, Hamza Shahbaz Sharif and Zaeem Hussain Qadri of PML-N and Pir Ijaz Ahmad Hashmi, Qari Zawar Bahadur and Dr. Javed Awan of JUP. It was agreed in the meeting that as PML-N and JUP are the founder parties of Pakistan, they will jointly block the way of looters and corrupt elements in general elections.

Welcoming the harmony and cooperation in general elections between PML-N and JUP, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that Pa-

kistan is facing serious challenges like terrorism and extremism and is passing through a critical phase therefore forthcoming next general elections are of critical importance in the history of the country.

He said that these elections are for the survival of the country and he is confident that people will bring forward a sincere and honest leadership in general elections. Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Khawaja Saad Rafique, Hamza Shahbaz Sharif, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Zaeem Hussain Qadri were also present in the meeting.

fore recommendation formulated by Punjab government to run Institute of Public Health on modern lines should be completely implemented, while Vice Chancellor King Edward Medical University should ensure that recommendations of Punjab government in this regard are effectively implemented.

Chief Minister further ordered strict monitoring of graveyards, tyre shops and warehouses, besides ensuring removal of debris from parks and other places. He warned that no negligence would be tolerated in this regard. Chief Minister said that 41 thousand volunteers, recruited last year, should also be mobilized for anti- dengue campaign.

Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif ordered that a vigorous public awareness campaign regarding arrangements for anti-dengue campaign should be launched, in collaboration with all segments of the society.

PU launches staff development training L AHORE —Punjab University (PU) on Monday started a two-week Staff Development Training Programme for the non- teaching and administrative staff members.

The training workshop is aimed at professional enhancements courses in personal grooming and mannerism, social and interpersonal skills, leadership skills, gender diversity management, skills in office correspondence, report writing and familiarization with rules and responsibilities.

Acting Vice Chancellor PU Prof. Dr. Liaqat Ali inaugurated the training programme which was attended by a large number of staff members who will go through extensive training and learn professional knowledge.—APP

Distracted eaters likely to take in more calories

P

EOPLE who eat meals or snacks while watching TV, playing games or reading tend to consume more calories in a sitting, and especially later in the day, according to a review of two dozen past studies.

“Some studies have individually shown this before, but the evidence has never been put together,” said lead author Eric Robinson from the University of Liverpool, UK. According to Robinson, distracted eating could increase the amount of food consumed by up to 50 percent.

On the other hand, summoning memories of what was eaten in a previous meal decreased the amount of food eaten later. Even though we make decisions about what and when to eat with apparent ease all the time, these decisions are actually very complex and can be easily disrupted,” Suzanne Higgs, a study co-author and psychologist at the University of Birmingham in the UK, told Reuters Health in an email.

The researchers broadly categorized eating patterns as “attentive,” such as sitting quietly and recording what was eaten during a meal, or the exact opposite, “distracted.” Distracted eaters do not pay close attention to food and are not as aware of how much they have eaten.

Robinson and his colleagues searched the scientific literature and found 24 studies conducted between 1997 and 2011 that met their main criterion of involving an experimenter who actively manipulated participants’ attention, memory and awareness of eating food. All

All TMAs abolished IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—The Spokesman of Local Government Department had clarified that the Local Government system 1979 had completely been restored in the entire province.

All the TMAs had been abolished, District Municipal Corporations, Municipal Corporations, Municipal Committees, District Councils, Town Committees and Union Councils had been restored vide order No. SO (A)/LG/4(37)/ 2011 dated 27-02-2013.

Since the TMAs had been abolished therefore, the question of retaining the officers in TMAs did not arise. All the TMAs officers concerned had been relieved to report to Sindh Local Government Board for further posting.

of the studies were tightly controlled and monitored, but each had different methods of manipulating participants’ attention and awareness. or example, in one study, adult men and women watched television while eating. In another, participants snacked on pistachio nuts and experimenters immediately removed the nut shells from view.

The experiments ranged in size from 14 participants to 122, and 18 of the 24 studies were done with university students as subjects. Nearly all of the men and women in the experiments were normal weight, rather than overweight or obese. The analysis suggests statistically significant differences between participants who ate attentively and those who ate while distracted, Higgs said.

On average, eating while distracted increased the amount eaten by about 10 percent, compared to not being distracted.

But it also increased the amount a person ate at a later meal by more than 25 percent.

In contrast, enhancing memories of food consumed at an earlier meal reduced the amount consumed at a subsequent meal by about 10 percent. Enhancing awareness of the food being consumed at the current meal did not, however, change how much people ate at that meal.

Still, in light of the overall results, the authors think that attentive eating techniques could be incorporated into weight loss regimens as an alternative to intense caloriecounting.

Appointment of DPAs completed prior to ECP ban IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—The Finance Department, Government of Sindh has clarified that Election Commission of Pakistan issued directives and imposed ban on all kind of recruitments on January 22, 2013.

Thereafter, Election Commission of Pakistan reviewed its directives regarding recruitments vide its notification dated 08.02.2013, as “all vacancies which were advertised on or before August 31, 2012 are outside the purview of the afore-referred Directive and may be filled in all appointments shall be made strictly in accordance with the rules applicable to such appointments

KARACHI: Rangers officers visiting a torture cell discovered during search operation in the are of Landhi Ali Brohi Goth.

Dozens of suspects arrested KARACHI —Police have arrested dozens of suspects during raids in different parts of city, after two officials’ murders in Karachi. The security agencies conducted raids, targeted operations in different parts of the metropolis after cordoning off the areas in late hours of Sunday, and continued their search after midnight. Many dozens suspects were taken into custody and a large quantity of weapons was recovered from their custody during raids in different parts of Site area including Pak Colony.

A close aide of notorious criminal Arshad Pappu, who was killed last night, Salman was also arrested by the security agencies from Pak Colony.

All arrested suspects have been moved to different police stations for further interrogation; it is expected that very important information will be extracted from those.—NNI

and purely on merit”.

According to further detail Finance Department, Government of Sindh advertised vacancies of DPAs (BS-12) in Finance Department got published in leading Newspapers i.e. English, Sindhi and Urdu on 11.2.2012, and Selection Committee conducted interview of the candidates applied for the post of DPA’s (BS-12) December 10 to 21, 2012 and Finance Department issued offer letters to the eligible candidates for appointment on purely merit basis on January 15, 2013.

As such the process of the IRFAN ALIGI appointment of DPAs was completed prior to impose the ban on KARACHI—A 15-member delrecruitment made by Election egation of Karachi Bar Association (KBA) called on the Sindh Commission of Pakistan.

Chief Minister (CM) Syed Qaim Ali Shah Monday at CM House.

The CM lauded the role of lawyers for restoration and strengthening of democracy in the country.

He added that he himself also belongs to lawyers’ community and struggled for democdents, religious scholars, law- racy and restoration of constituyers, political workers and citi- tion and rule of law.

KBA President Naeem zens in the city. However, the masses were aware of those that Qureshi presented problems were behind in the manslaugh- faced to Karachi Bar Associater of the innocent people in the tion with regard to land for Association members and grant for city.

He warned the perpetrators Association.

The CM listened to his probto stop killing the innocent people or else the workers of the lems and announced grant of PPP would be compelled to re- Rs.2500, 000 for the welfare of taliate with the assistance of the the Association.

Sindh Law Minister citizens.

Muhammad Ayaz Soomro, He demanded of the law enforcement agencies to ensure Sindh Social Welfare Minister the killers of Nabeel Baloch Nargis N D Khan, Senior Spewere arrested without fail and cial Assistant to CM Rashid Rabbani, Special Assistant to taken to task.

CM Waqar Mehdi and others were present.

Rs. 25 lakh for KBA

PPP condemns killings of party’s Baloch activists IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—Pakistan People’s Party Karachi Division General Secretary Syed Najmi Alam had condemned targeted killing of PPP activists particularly those from Baloch ethnic origin.

Alam said that the terrorists had in particular targeted Baloch workers of the PPP and one diehard activist of the PPP Nabeel Baloch was gunned down in Old Golimar area last night. On the other hand, the terrorists had more than a dozen activists were abducted from Pak Colony, Pakistan Quarters and Garden East

areas and were killed after they were subjected to physical torture. The PPP workers thus killed were kidnapped while they were moving their work places.

He said that the PPP had offered tremendous sacrifices for the democracy and had always preached for the peace and tranquility despite the fact that more than 500 activists were killed during the tenure of PPPled government.

The perpetrators wanted to derail the democracy at the behest of their foreign masters and had killed many doctors, stu-

LG Secretary takes notice of postings of 800 employees IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—The Secretary Lo-

KARACHI: Women protesting against Uzair Baloch.

cal Government Department, Ali Ahmed Lund had taken serious view of news item published in a section of press and had appointed Syed Shah Muhammad, an Additional Secretary Local Government as inquiry officer to conduct inquiry for alleged posting of (800) eight hundred employees in various Local Councils with the fake orders, without approval of selection committee and Secretary Local government Department.

Furthermore he had directed that all such recruitments if made may be cancelled with immediate effect.

Reunion of USAID-funded Merit-based Alumni from Sindh Ebad asks young scholars to play role in economic prosperity IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HECP) and USAID organized jointly a reunion of USAIDfunded Merit and Needs based Alumni from province of Sindh at Governor House Karachi.

The purpose of the event was to celebrate one of the most successful collaborative endeavors by the USAID & HEC through which over 550 young students of four higher education institutions HEIs of Sindh, benefitted from the program.

The ceremony was attended by government officials, representatives of USAID civil society, corporate sector, donors and philanthropists.

In their brief remarks, the students extended thanks to US government and HEC for providing them support in continuation of their higher studies in the disciplines of business education and agriculture at the leading HEIs of Sindh. They shared their success stories and also vowed

to play an active role for the socio economic development of the province and country.

Addressing on the occasion, Governor Sindh Dr Ishrat Ul Ebad Khan lauded the combined efforts of HEC and USAID in arranging the event and carrying out this useful initiative.

He said that United States has always contributed in socioeconomic development of Pakistan including health, education, agriculture, and economy and finance sectors. Government had always laid great importance on creating opportunities to make education accessible at the doorstep of every Pakistani. The supports from the US authorities and the unwavering commitment of HEC had helped the government towards achieving this goal.

The governor said that awarding over 550 scholarships under merit and need based scholarship program was a commendable accomplishment and such useful endeavors would also continue in future as well, he hoped.

He also emphasized over the young scholars to play their pivotal role for the economic prosperity of Pakistan.

US Consulate General, Karachi Michael Dodman expressed his pleasure over the successful event and especially notable achievements of meritorious but financially deserving students from Sindh.

While expressing US government‘s vision for development in Pakistan, he said that US fully realizes that a coordinated and mutual efforts involving Government of Pakistan would be quite beneficial for the wellbeing of people of Pakistan.

He pointed out the success of the merit based scholarship program which was initiated in 2004 in universities across all provinces of Pakistan.

He informed that the USAID was also supporting HEC’s cause of establishing high class educational centers to build universityindustry-government linkages and address issues of national priorities.

PPP terms Gabol as lame horse in politics IRFAN ALIGI

KARACHI—It could be a major setback for the Pakistan People’s party that was witnessed on Sunday evening when the die-hard PPP leader from Liyari, Nabeel Gabol officially announced to have joined the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM). However, the PPP leaders here in the province had not taken Gabol’s stance for parting ways with the PPP as the leaders said that Gabol had already lost his credibility in his constituency, Liyari and was unable to even enter his constituency because the people of Liyari had since long stopped believing Gabol especially after his pro-operation stance against the people of Liyari.

Gabol had announced his joining of the MQM Sunday in a press conference he addressed along with MQM Co-Ordination Committee Deputy Convener Dr Farooq Sattar.

PPP Karachi Division Secretary Information Lateef Mughal said that the stance Gabol had showed was only for the party ticket for contesting elections, which the PPP leadership had refused owing to his controversial stances and even plain criticism on the PPP’s point of view especially on the People’s Amn Committee and on various occasions especially on TV talk shows, Gabol’s tilt toward the MQM was noticed and discussed within the party KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah talking to a delegation of Karachi lines.

Bar Association at CH House.

Mughal said that it was less important that Gabol had quit the PPP and joined the MQM but it would be more important to see in coming days whether he would stay with the MQM for good or would take another turn in his coming political life. sibilities with courage, vision Shah (B.A Final) took oath as STAFF REPORTER and fair play. the President and Faryal KARACHI—Defence AuthorFirst year students of the Qureshi (B.Com) as the vice ity College for Women Ph-VIII College kept audience spell- President of the Council.

Earlier the Principal, Dr. celebrated women’s day to bound with their fiery speeches commemorate the collective ef- about women role in society. Farhat Agha said that the IRFAN ALIGI forts of the women worldwide. Hiba Rasheed got first prize for courses of studies and other The event was incorporated English whereas Shareea Javed activities at the college were KARACHI—The Secretary Lowith Oath Taking Ceremony of was decleared first for the Urdu designed to optimize develop- cal Government Department, ment of intellectual, moral and Mr. Ali Ahmed Lund has also the newly elected members of Speech.

A visual presentation on the physical potential of students. suspended Israr Ahmed, Chief Students’ Council 2013.

She said that all the edu- Municipal Officer and Sanitary Ms. Maleeha Faisal, Ex- ‘Role model of Muslim Women’ ecutive Director Overseas Of- was given by Asst Prof Mrs cational activities were fo- Inspector of Town Committee, fice was the chief guest on the Roohi Tayybai, which was fol- cused towards producing con- Kandhkot due to death of little occasion. She congratulated the lowed by a simple and graceful fident, self-reliant and forward girl drowned in manhole in members of the Students’ Oath Taking Ceremony. The se- looking individuals who could Kandhkot Town and appoint Council and advised them to lected members of the Students’ contribute positively for the Director General, Monitoring Local Government to conduct discharge their onerous respon- Council took the oath. Haya society. inquiry and report within 3 days.

Women’s Day 2013 celebrated

Suspended CO Kandhkot