Bridge mag international february, 2014

Published Monthly in Chicago, USA and distributed simultaneously to major cities of USA, Canada, UK and Pakistan

Published by Bridge Publications USA, Inc Publisher Jawaid Riaz

7331 N Kolmar Ave Suite G, Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712 Ph # 773 828 5126 cell # 973 517 5586 E:Mail: info@bridgepublicationsusa.com

Contents 4.

6

PM seeks more Turkish investment in Pakistan

5.

Army prepared for any action: General Raheel

9.

Anti-peace acts to hamper talks, agree committees

10.

Pakistan not assisting rebels in Syria: Sartaj

7

The Economic Genocide of Karachi

The situation in Karachi is primarily due to the machinations of political parties and due to their non-chalant attitude towards Karachi. This metropolis was called The City of Lights. This appellation was cherished with devout pride by the denizens of Karachi. What happened that today it is the City of Blood, the City of Darkness, and the City of Chaos?

So, can there be a U-turn by the political parties to seriously and earnestly endeavor to bring peace? Will they listen to the “signals” emanating out of the meeting of the Formation Commanders in GHQ? Will they seriously take cognizance of the daily killings and the mayhem in Karachi?

The political parties are basically fighting to maintain their turf. These parties have protectors of strong and dominant players in gun-running, land-grabbing, and drugs-marketing. The income from these activities is phenomenal and also provides power and importance.

President calls for 12 . early implementation of Pak-China energy projects

8

pipeline not 13. ‘Pak-Iran possible due to US sanctions’ should take over, 14. Army says Altaf Haji Abdul Razzaq 15. Yaqoob passes away

11

Mafias, terrorists have 16. taken hold of Karachi: In Perspective: SOCH – A Warranted Endeavor for Civil Hospital Karachi.

Welcomes 18. Chicago Newly appointed Indian Ambassador to USA

21.

20 Sports 22.

At the same time, where on the one hand, an ethno-political party has a mesmerizing control over Karachi, then on the other hand, the other parties are striving to get a foothold in the City’s political arena and to wrest seats from the control of this ethno-political party. This has naturally brought about a harsh reaction resulting in a brutal law and order situation culminating in daily deaths in double figures.

Do the politicians really want to bring about a peaceful and livable environment in this city? The task is onerous and the journey difficult. But, if there is a will there is a way. The first and foremost step to be taken is that all party flags, posters, graffiti, and slogans must be eliminated and wiped out from the city. Secondly, there would be no display of arms at political meetings nor would the politicos move around with armed escorts. Thirdly, what is of prime importance is that the political parties must keep at bay their hardcore militants and must ensure that political patronage is not accorded to militants arrested by the law-enforcing agencies.

There have been so-called De-weaponization campaigns and at the same time clarion calls for ridding this City of arms. It is easier said than done. Thousands of arms licenses are being issued on political grounds by the Home Department. The Interior Minister reveals that sophisticated Israeli arms have found their way into Karachi. The solution is however possible. Enact a Federal law making illegal arms a crime punishable by life imprisonment. Then make sure that once a culprit is arrested, that person must be sentenced if found guilty and if there is political pressure on the law enforcers, the name of the politician pulling rank must be forwarded to the Prime Minister for taking action against that politician. Meantime, an amnesty may be declared for those possessing illegal arms. This is a tall order but efforts must be continuously made in this matter.

CJ

17.

E d i to ri a l

Lack of employment opportunities is one major reason for the despondency and for the escalation in the crime rates. A massive, fast-track program must be initiated by the government to introduce projects such as low-cost housing in this country. This would directly spur up activity in 45 industries and provide jobs for millions. This is the only viable initiative for reducing unemployment and attacking extremism, terrorism, and crimes.

Therefore, it is high time all leaders of political parties must seriously, for once, have a two-day All Parties Conference to deliberate and agree on a three-point agenda: 1. Economy 2.

Law and Order 3.

Code of Conduct

This would be the Charter of Peace. This would be guaranteed and monitored by the Armed Forces, by the Health Judiciary, and by the Business Community.

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4 February - 2014

PM seeks more Turkish investment in Pakistan

NEWS

and deputy chairman of GAMA Holding; Nehat Ozdemir, chairman of Limak Holding; Ibrahim Cecin, chairman of IC Holding; Alp Yalcin Taskent, chairman of STFA; Ahmet Albayrak, chairman of Albayrak Group; Ahmet Zorlu, chairman of ISTANBUL: Prime Minister Nawaz Zorlu Holdings; Korhan Kurdoglu, Sharif on Friday asked the heads president of ATA Holding; Turgay of leading Turkish business Ciner, chairman and CEO of Ciner groups to become development Group. partner with Pakistan during a meeting.

The Koc group showed keen interest to invest in electrical apHe assured his government’s full pliances manufacturing, dairy support and maximum facilitadevelopment, and bus manution for investment in Pakistan. facturing. The finished products The prime minister informed the could then be exported from Turkish businessmen about the Pakistan. Nawaz said Pakistan will measures taken by his governfacilitate and encourage them to ment that resulted in increasing have a partnership with Pakistan the GDP quarterly rate from 2.9% private sector. to 5%, about 17% rise in the Karachi Stock Exchange, more foreign In his meeting with M/s Limak remittance and business activi- group, Nawaz said Turkish comties. panies will be given all possible help for setting up power plants.

“Our government plans to raise The company said they have comthe GDP growth rate to above 6% pleted pre-requisites for investand bring more foreign investing in the wind energy, coal-fired ment in energy, infrastructure, power plants in Gaddani Power low-cost housing, municipal serPark and construction of highvices, agro-based industry, inforways on BOT basis. mation technology, textiles, etc.,” said the prime minister.

NOROL group said they have explored investment projects In the meanwhile, the Chinar of Dasu Hydropower Project, Group of Turkey agreed to esLahore-Karachi Motorway and tablish a 660MW power plant at coal-based projects, hydropower Gaddani and offered to start work projects. The prime minister eximmediately. The CEO of Chinar pected that the group will finalise Group called on Nawaz and distechnical examination of these cussed his plans. The prime minisprojects and their investment will ter welcomed the Chinar Group’s be protected. investment in Pakistan and assured it of full facilitation. The Minister for Water and Power group also showed keen interest Khawaja Asif, Advisor to Prime in investment in coal and cop- Minister on National Security and per mining in Pakistan. The other Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, SpeTurkish businessmen who met cial Assistant to Prime Minister the prime minister included Mus- on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi, tafa Koc, chairman of Koc Group; Chairman Board of Investment Oguz Carmikli, vice-chairman of Miftah Ismail Ahmad were also Nurol Group; Hakan Ozman, CEO present in the meeting.

Indian FM backs Karzai amid Afghan stand-off with US

es to stay back in Afghanistan but added that Karzai had made a ‘careful calculation’ in not signing the agreement with the US at this stage. He also appreciated the role of Afghan security forces in ensuring peace in the country.

On recent reports that he had clandestinely opened his own channel of communication with Afghan Taliban, Karzai responded it was important to find ‘all opportunities for engagement.’

KANDAHAR: President Hamid Karzai on Saturday allayed India’s concerns over the uncertainty in Afghanistan ahead of the international troop pullout saying he is not against a ‘limited’ presence of international forces in the country.

Karzai flew down to Kandahar for the inauguration of an agricultural university built with Indian assistance worth close to two million USD. He inaugurated the university jointly with Indian foreign minister Salman Khurshid.

Afghanistan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University in Kandahar exemplified India-Afghanistan strategic partnership, said India’s envoy to Afghanistan Amar Sinha. The university is located in the middle of Tarnak farms, once Osama bin Laden’s main hideout in the warravaged country.

Karzai also met Khurshid separately to discuss security related issues including his reluctance to sign with the US a bilateral security agreement which is important for ensuring a residual presence of US troops.

‘I’m not against a limited presence of Nato troops but this presence must become a source of support for Afghanistan,’ Karzai told an Indian newspaper. He added that for that to happen, Afghanistan needed support of both US and Pakistan.

Khurshid later said that India wanted some international forc-

Khurshid praised Karzai for his efforts to establish a genuine Afghan owned, Afghan led and Afghan controlled reconciliation process in Afghanistan. ‘To offer a chance to members of armed opposition groups willing to give up terror and abide by the Afghan Constitution, the possibility of participating as equal citizens in Afghanistan’s national life,’ he said.

While Karzai has repeatedly demanded more military assistance, including lethal equipment, from India without much success, he expressed satisfaction over help received from India. ‘We are very satisfied because India, despite traditionally not being a donor country, has gone beyond its means to help Afghanistan,’ he said. While India is yet to make up its mind to what extent it can go to provide military assistance to Kabul, Khurshid reiterated India’s commitment to provide three military transport choppers to Afghanistan.

Khurshid called upon international community to fulfil its pledges to rebuild the Afghan National Army and the Afghan National Police. He said the main threat to Afghanistan’s security and its internal stability is terrorism and extremism that continues to target the people of Afghanistan.

‘We too have been facing this threat for many years, and understand the importance in times like these of friends and strategic partners forging the closest of cooperation to defeat this evil scourge,’ he added.

5 February - 2014

Army prepared for any action: General Raheel

NEWS

halt after the Mohmand Agency chapter of TTP claimed killing 23 Frontier Corps soldiers last week.

The breakdown of talks was followed by air strikes against TTP threat posed to the integrity and hideouts in tribal regions and sovereignty of our beloved counHangu district. try,” the COAS emphasised.

Complaining that the governRecounting the security forces’ ment did not consult opposition successes in various operations benches prior to initiating action against the terrorists, the army against the militants, lawmakers chief lauded the efforts and dehave said that the National Astermination of all troops and sembly session will provide them LEAs who cleared the affected an opportunity to question the areas with the help of local popugovernment on the issue. lation and support of the entire nation. “We are fully prepared to Talking to The Media, PTI Dr Arif confront any challenge in future Alvi said “PTI had demanded an RAWALPINDI: The Chief of the as well,” General Raheel said. unconditional ceasefire from the Army Staff (COAS), General RaTaliban but they did not honour heel Sharif, said on Friday that Earlier, on arrival at Peshawar, the Pakistan Army had conduct- the COAS was received by Lieued several successful operations tenant General Khalid Rabbani, against the terrorists and now Corps Commander, Peshawar, too it was fully prepared for any and Major General Ghayur Mahmood, Inspector General Frontier action.

Corps, KP. The army chief said this during a visit to the headquarters of the Meanwhile, the army chief visitFC, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.Appre- ed the headquarters of the Army ciating the spirit and high morale Strategic Force Command.Genof the troops, the COAS said the eral Raheel was given a detailed entire nation acknowledged the briefing by Lieutenant General sacrifices rendered by them as Obaidullah, Commander Army part of national effort to elimi- Strategic Force Command, on opnate the scourge of terrorism erational and security matters. from Pakistan, and assured them The army chief reiterated that that these sacrifices will not go Pakistan’s nuclear programme waste. occupies a central place in the

our demand and brutally murdered our soldiers.”

He added that his party was not consulted on the scenario emerging after the brutal killing of FC personnel; however, his party supports the government’s action for a peaceful Pakistan. “We will further deliberate on the issue of talks before the upcoming assembly session,” he added.

Weighing in on the issue, PPP’s Abdul Sattar Bachani said that his party would also deliberate on the evolving situation and the law and order in the country during the parliamentary party’s meeting before the session.

Nisar to meet TTP, govt teams in joint session soon

“Let there be no doubt that Pakistan armed forces are battlehardened and fully capable of countering any internal or external

defence of the country.Later, while interacting with the troops, he appreciated their professionalism, highest training standards and morale.

NA session: Opposition to quiz govt over peace process ISLAMABAD: With the National Assembly set to meet in the backdrop of a gridlock in the Taliban dialogue process, opposition lawmakers are gearing to quiz the government on its future strategy, despite the dialogue process not being part of the formal agenda.

The ninth session of the lower house of parliament, which will start on Monday [today], comes two weeks after the prime minister announced the formation of a government committee to hold headed by Adviser Irfan Siddiqi, was mandated to hold talks with talks with the Taliban. representatives of the Taliban but The four-member committee, the dialogue process came to a

The PTI is completely on board.”

The government source refuted the impression that Imran Khan has gone abroad just to be away from the tricky situation when the aerial bombing continued, and said the PTI chief was flying back home tonight.

He was appreciative of the PTI’s national policy on the issue.Senior PTI leader Javed Hashmi said the other day that his party would stand with the government and the State if a military operation was launched against the terrorists. There have been no condemnatory statements from any PTI leaders about the aerial strafing.

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan will hold a joint session with the members of the two committees for talks with the Taliban, in a day or two to deliberate upon how to Another source said that indirect resume the suspended dialogue contacts of some top governprocess, it is learnt. ment leaders, especially the inMeanwhile, the government is in terior minister, with the Taliban constant touch with the top Paki- committee did exist although stan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader- the parleys were faced with a ship about the negotiations with deadlock after the execution of the TTP representatives and the 23 Frontier Constabulary (FC) retaliatory aerial bombardment personnel and continuing aerial of the militants’ sanctuaries in punishment by the government.

At the same time, the talks with the tribal areas. the TTP are on hold for the time A credible source told The News being, he said. that the interior minister was quietly but continually in contact The source spelt out points viswith PTI Chairman Imran Khan à-vis the dialogue process and about this situation, and a broad the hammering of the Taliban’s consensus exists on the steps hideouts by the jets and gunship being taken by the government. helicopters. He said it was not “Chaudhry Nisar has been regu- possible for the government to larly talking to the PTI chairman continue talks while the TTP perand explaining the circumstances. sisted with terrorist attacks.

6 February - 2014

Taliban claim killing of 23 FC men

NEWS

RAWALPINDI: As many as 23 FC men held by the Taliban in captivity were beheaded, the Tehrik-eTaliban Pakistan (TTP) Mohmand Agency chapter claimed on Sunday night, Geo News reported.

Umar Khorasani, in charge of the Mohammad Agency Taliban, claimed that the held FC men were captured from the Shonkrai post in June 2010. There was, however, no confirmation or reaction from the government or official TTP spokesman till the filing of this report.

Khorasani claimed the Taliban had been asking the government to stop the alleged killing of their colleagues as the release of prisoners was their basic demand but the government did not listen to them.

Irfan Siddiqui said the government committee made it clear to the Taliban that if they did not announce to stop their negative activities, it would not be possible to continue the dialogue process.

As such the Taliban wanted written guarantees from the Pakistan Army, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and other leaders.

Sources said the Taliban had warned that they would not stop their activities unless actions against them were also stopped.

Maulana Yousaf Shah said the Taliban had sought some time to take a decision for declaring He said the FC men were killed in ceasefire. revenge for the alleged killing of their colleagues by the govern- Meanwhile, in an interview with ment. Agencies add from Pesha- a private TV channel, Maulana war: The outlawed TTP decided a Yousaf said he contacted the Taliconditional ceasefire in its Shura ban leaders over the telephone meeting which is expected to be and they asked for time so that they could take a decision. He announced within 24 hours. was confident that both sides The Taliban demanded the re- would announce a ceasefire. lease of its non-combatant prisoners and the withdrawal of the It may be recalled that the Lahore military from South Waziristan convention of the Ulema and Agency for the ceasefire.A private Mashaikh convened presided TV channel reported that the Tali- over by Maulana Samiul Haq had ban also expressed reservations called for an immediate ceasefire on some of the members of the to move forward the peace talks. government’s committee nomi- Meanwhile, Prime Minister nated to hold peace talks with Nawaz Sharif said despite all the them. negative activities from the TaliEarlier, on Sunday morning, the Taliban-proposed dialogue committee coordinator Maulana Yousaf Shah said the Taliban’s political Shura was discussing ceasefire with the government in a bid to end its violent activities.

fan Siddiqui informed the prime minister about the third formal meeting with the Taliban committee, demands put forward by the Taliban as well as their Shura meeting.

ban side, the government was showing patience and wants to pursue the dialogue process in the larger interest of the country.

Talking to Irfan Siddiqui, coordinator of the government committee and special assistant to the PM, Nawaz said national security must take precedence in the dialogue process and advised the committee to continue its work with sincerity. The prime minister made it clear that any demand of the Taliban against national security would not be entertained.

Sources close to the official committee said the TTP wanted written assurances from the government regarding the ending of actions against the Taliban prior to any ceasefire.The sources disclosed that the TTP had serious reservations over the government’s actions against Taliban elements being carried out in all During the meeting, which was major cities of Pakistan including also attended by Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, IrKarachi.

He said the Taliban have demanded the release of elderly men, women and children under arrest as well as the withdrawal of troops from South Waziristan. He said in return, the government committee has also put forward its demands for the release of kidnapped persons and the announcement of a ceasefire for at least one month.

The prime minister said the government was ready for appropriate and reasonable steps to restore peace.

Talks with Taliban suspended over FC men’s killings

of negotiations so as to end the bloodshed continuing in the country for several years. He said the meeting of the government committee had been convened on February 18 to devise a strategy in accordance with the current situation. He said the whole country was in grief over the martyrdom of 23 kidnapped men of the Frontier Constabulary (FC), ISLAMABAD: The peace talks be- so how they could go Akora Khattween the government and the tak for dialogue. “The deadlock in Taliban committees came to a halt the dialogue can only be broken on Monday over the martyrdom once the Taliban give clear assurof Frontier Corps (FC) personnel ance that the past would not be in the Mohmand Agency. After repeated and such kind of terrorthe killing of the FC personnel on ist acts would be avoided in the Monday night, the government future,” he said while talking to committee cancelled its schedMedia uled visit to Akora Khattak.

Irfan Siddiqui said that the memPaying rich tributes to the sacri- bers of the committee opined fices of the martyrs‚ Irfan Siddiqui, how the dialogue process could coordinator and Special Adviser be continued in such a tragic to the Prime Minister, said the atmosphere.“The dialogue progovernment had initiated the diacess in this situation cannot be logue process with good intencontinued and now the Taliban tions in the light of the decisions have to take a step forward for of All Parties Conference (APC). the dialogue,” he added.

However‚ the process was sabotaged whenever an encouraging He said it was not possible to conpoint was reached. He said that it tinue with the dialogue process was a highly regrettable situation while the Taliban were not ready and the entire nation was grieved to abstain themselves from attackover it. ing the security forces. “The prime Any meeting with the Taliban minister clearly stated that terrorfollowing the martyrdom of 23 ism and dialogue process could abducted personnel of Frontier not go together,” he added.

Corps (FC) would prove futile, he Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz added. He said the government Sharif, while condemning the killcommittee unanimously con- ing of FC personnel in Mohmand demned the incident and added Agency, said that such bloodshed that frequency of such incidents was intolerable as he termed it a was negatively affecting the pro- gruesome act.He said incidents cess of serious negotiations. “We like the martyrdom of FC personregret that things are not moving nel in Mohmand Agency cast a in the right direction,” he said. negative impact on the peace Irfan Siddiqui said the nation was talks. He said that Pakistan could hoping for a positive outcome not afford bloodshed any more.

7 February - 2014

NEWS

‘US-desired operation’ to be against country’s interests, says Imran

the unabated killing of the men in uniform without any justification. They decided that the state of Pakistan will not budge to the tactics of the terrorists and no tool of blackmailing would be allowed to work any further. elements were also active against the peace talks. Condemning the “The opportunity of dialogue recent blasts, Imran Khan said came once the outlawed elethe Taliban should be given the ments expressed the desire for it. responsibility of nabbing those Since the government was averse involved in terrorist attacks. — to bloodshed, it opted for the Agencies same although the nation was

He said that Pakistan would not be able to frame and implement independent internal and external policies until it got out of the influence of foreign powers.

Imran was speaking at a dinner hosted for him by the PTI’s overseas leaders here. He said the rulers, by obeying the American orders, had destroyed the country.

By our correspondent adds: The PTI Chairman, Imran Khan, urged the government to muster courage for exposing the forces hatching conspiracies against the dialogue process with the Taliban.

Speaking at a reception, Imran said the PML-N government was trying to save its power rather than the country just to please the US.

He said the PML-N had failed to address any issue, including terrorism, loadshedding, price-hike Meanwhile, talking to the me- and unemployment, adding the dia, Imran said that a ceasefire nation was looking towards rulagreement between the govern- ers with hatred due to their misment and the Taliban should be deeds. made as early as possible.He said the peace talks should be given The PTI chairman said he would a full chance to restore peace in have himself led the team for diathe country, adding that the op- logue with the Taliban if he was tion of a military operation was in place of Nawaz. He also said the PTI would not remain silent always at hand. against the massive rigging in the The PTI chief also said that there last general elections and would were a few groups within the announce its next course of acTaliban who did not want peace tion after hearing of the petition in Pakistan, adding that anti-state in the Supreme Court on March 2.

in rage over the events prior to that,” the sources said, attributing the opinion to the COAS and the PM.

They revealed that Nawaz, enjoying full confidence of the nation and armed forces, would soon make the position of the government public at an appropriate time for dealing with the terrorists. They have resolved that the TTP wouldn’t be permitted now to make a mockery of the talks.

The message for the talks and peace after every act of massive killing has become a cruel joke, they said.

The prime minister was exasperated over the incident of assassination of police, FC personnel, martyrdom of a soldier and two majors one after the other. Both the PM and the COAS were saddened over the incidents, the sources maintained.

In the meanwhile, they said resumption of talks had become extremely difficult with the TTP. The government would consider the resumption of dialogue now if the TTP announced ceasing hostilities at once unconditionally and there was no more act of violence. The TTP will have to refrain from levelling baseless allegations, they said.

It is likely that commanders of the armed forces will have informal consultations in the next few hours where an effective strategy would be evolved to deal with the situation. The sources declined to comment on the initiation of the operation clean-up any time soon in the troubled areas where the militants have built their hideouts.

PAF jets bomb Taliban hideouts

COAS, Nawaz meet as patience runs out over Taliban violence

ISLAMABAD: The Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Raheel Sharif, had an important and unscheduled 100-minute meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif here at the Prime Minister’s Office.

They exchanged views about the violence perpetrated by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and hide and seek with the talks process. No word has been given officially about the meeting from either side but The News gathered from a reliable authority that patience of civil and military leadership over the TTP activities has virtually run out.

LAHORE: In a major development late Wednesday night, the PAF fighter jets targeted the hideouts of Taliban militants in the Mir Ali area of North Waziristan.

Highly informed sources in the military establishment said the PAF jets started pounding the terrorists’ hideouts at 23:59 (11:59pm) killing several Taliban militants, including some foreigners.

The sources told this scribe that both the PM and COAS were in complete harmony over the future course of action dealing with terror. The two were pained over

apparent failure of the peace talks started by the government.

The sources said the targeted hideouts were the headquarters of two TTP-linked foreign commanders from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. According to sources, these were pre-emptive strikes to prevent some major terrorist operations being planned by the foreign terrorists.

It may be recalled that 50-plus No military official was, however, terrorists were killed in the suravailable to confirm the hunch gical airstrikes on January 20 in that the much-awaited military a tit-for-tat response to the TTPoperation had finally begun in sponsored attacks on security North Waziristan following the forces.

8 February - 2014

NEWS

Pakistan seeks US help to eliminate terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday urged the United States to play an effective role in eliminating the sanctuaries and hideouts of terrorists from Afghanistan as the miscreants are spearheading a terror campaign in Pakistan.The United States Central Command (Centcom) commander, General Lloyd J Austin, had separate meetings with Secretary Ministry of Defence Lt Gen (retd) Asif Yasin Malik, sponsored by the neighboring India.

Banned outfits, TTP and LeJ, are a real threat in the Punjab while target killers of al-Qaeda and LeJ are targeting Sindh.The Interior Ministry report was presented before the standing committee of the National Assembly for discussion.

bility in the region, the sources told The News.During a meeting with Federal Defence Secretary Lt Gen (retd) Asif Yasin Malik, General Lloyd Austin commended Pakistan’s strive in facilitating the drawdown process of the US and Isaf forces.

While terming Pakistan a vital partner for regional security, the Centcom commander said that both Pakistan and the US were important to each other’s national The committee met with Rana interests. During the meeting held Shamim Ahmed Khan in the chair here, he said that Pakistan had and was briefed by officials of always been a useful partner and the National Crisis Management the relations between the two Cell on the security situation of countries were progressing on an the country.The committee was upward trajectory. informed that Islamabad was un- The defence secretary reiterated der threat from Lashkar-e-Jhangvi that being a pivotal partner to the (LeJ) and Tehreek-e-Taliban Paki- international community, Pakistan (TTP) while Chairman Joint stan had sacrificed greatly in the Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) war against terror. He reiterated General Rashad Mahmood and that Pakistan wanted peace in Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) the region and was ready to play General Raheel Sharif. its role in achieving the goal of Both the sides agreed to continue working for regional security and stability. Pakistan called upon the United States that sanctuaries of terrorists should be eliminated before the drawdown of the USled Isaf troops.

lasting stability. He said that the armed forces and people of Pakistan had courageously fought and withstood the menace of terrorism over the last decade.

Asif Yasin Malik added that Pakistan earnestly wished for a stable The reminder from Pakistan was and peaceful Afghanistan and purconveyed on both the diplomatic sued the policy of non-interferand military levels. The US au- ence in Afghan affairs. Moreover, thorities were reminded by the Pakistan would always facilitate civil and military leadership that the reconciliation peace process 23 Frontier Constabulary (FC) in Afghanistan for durable peace personnel had been in the captiv- in the region. ity of terrorists in Afghanistan for The visiting US general acknowlmore than four years and were edged the role played by the Pakassassinated in Afghanistan. Pakiistan armed forces and the sacristan made it clear that Afghan fices made in terms of men and miscreants were part of the gory material during the war on terror. incident.

He added that the US realised The Pakistani political and mili- the colossal loss of over 40,000 tary leadership urged the US au- Pakistanis, including soldiers and thorities to play their role for sta- officers of the armed forces, as

compared to Nato-Isaf forces. He said that despite the highly difficult terrain in border regions and well-dug-in enemy, the successes made by the Pakistan armed forces were highly commendable. He said that consultative forums like the DCG had helped the US cement military-to-military relations aimed at improving peace and stability in the region. He further added that continued support in training, education and Coalition Support Fund would act as tools necessary to keep the relations on a solid footing.

US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson was also present in the meeting. Meanwhile, the United States Central Command (CENT-

COM) commander General Lloyd J Austin had meetings in Rawalpindi separately with Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Rashad Mahmood at the Joint Headquarters and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif at the General Headquarters.

The matters of bilateral professional interest came up for discussion in both the meetings.

General Lloyd Austin served in Iraq during the US troops’ withdrawal. He also oversaw that the hard-fought security gains of the United States were preserved.

Incidentally, he is on a similar assignment in Afghanistan.

More than 100 soldiers killed despite peace efforts: Pak army

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan army Wednesday said more than 100 soldiers had been killed by Taliban militants in the last five months, in a rare admission of mass casualties since the start of government efforts to engage the insurgents in peace talks.

The administration of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who came to power last year promising to negotiate peace with the Taliban, has been trying to engage the militants in talks but these efforts have faltered in past weeks. The lack of progress on peace talks has given rise to speculation that the government, backed by the powerful army, is preparing for a ground and air offensive against Taliban strongholds in the tribal belt on the Afghan border.

Requesting anonymity, security officials told Reuters that 308 civilians, 114 military personnel and 38 police officers had been killed since September 2013, around a time when Sharif convened an all-party conference that unanimously opted for peace talks.

Pakistan army almost never releases numbers of its losses against Taliban insurgents, a group operating separately from its Afghan namesake, and striving to overthrow the Islamabad government and install an Islamic state.Talks between representatives of the Taliban and government officials broke down earlier this week after a series of attacks on security forces claimed by fringe Taliban groups.

The army publicly supports Sharif’s call for talks but in private senior officers have spoke strongly against it, giving rise to talk that the military are waiting for an excuse to mount a major operation against militant strongholds.

“An all-out operation is highly unlikely but a targeted operation is unavoidable,” a senior military official said requesting anonymity. “There is a very strong realisation among all stakeholders that the Taliban will just never give up the use of force and so they will have to be dealt with the use of force. We’ve already wasted a lot of time over this charade of peace talks.” Another intelligence official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to discuss military operational matters with journalists, said a military operation was in the works. “It will not be carpet bombing,” he said. “But the army is ready for a full onslaught to flush them out.”

9 February - 2014

Anti-peace acts to hamper talks, agree committees

NEWS

ISLAMABAD: The government and the Taliban committees involved in the talks process on Friday agreed that the antipeace activities might hamper the negotiation process and asked the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to stop such activities.

government committee said.

while referring to an attack on a bus of the police training centrein Karachi, was of the view that such attacks could hamper the negotiation process. “The TTP should be asked to immediately stop the terrorist acts,” the

The TTP is demanding that the peace process should be taken forward in the true spirit of the Holy Quran and Sunnah and the government should release their elders, children and women.

According to the communiqué, the Taliban committee also asked the government not to take such an action which could result in anger or annoy any side. “The Taliban should halt such negative activities forthwith and take practical steps for The two committees, which met peace,” the government comhere at the Khyber Pakhtunkh- mittee said. wa House, were on the same page over the wave of terrorist Meanwhile, talking to the meacts from Peshawar to Karachi dia after the meeting, Maulana and expressed serious concerns Samiul Haq said they were trying to reach a ceasefire between over such activities. the government and the Taliban In a joint communiqué, the two and hopefully it would be done sides expressed the apprehen- in the next couple of days. He sion that continuation of the said so far they had succeeded peace dialogue will become im- in averting a deadlock in the possible if anti-peace activities talks process. “It will take time continued. It said that such ac- to end the 12-year-long war. tivities will cast an adverse im- People should pray that the pact on peace efforts. dialogue process succeeds,” he said.

The two committees expressed regret over the terrorist acts The Maulana said they would and declared that the sabotage continue peace efforts but still acts would have a negative im- there were reservations from pact on the peace process. both the sides, adding that he had also called a consultative The government committee was meeting of Ulema to discuss the represented by Irfan Siddiqui, issue with them.

Major (retd) Aamir, Rahimullah Yusufzai and Rustam Shah Sources said that during the Mohmand, while the Taliban meeting, members of the Talicommittee comprised Maula- ban committee also contacted na Samiul Haq, Professor Mu- the TTP spokesman Shahidullah hammad Ibrahim and Maulana Shahid and apprised him about Yousaf Shah. the government’s demand to The government committee, halt their activities.

10 February - 2014

NEWS

Pakistan not assisting rebels Syrian Kurds take town from in Syria: Sartaj Islamists ment, enabling the people there to run the affairs of the country.

“Pakistan is also committed to its stance on protection of territorial sovereignty of Syria, end to atrocities and contributing to international efforts for restoration of peace in the restive country, respect to the masses opinion and initiation of dialogue to defuse the ISLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime situation,” he said.

BEIRUT: A Kurdish group captured Minister on National Security and a town in Syria from Islamists on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Tues- He said the sale of arms also re- Saturday in a battle in which at day categorically rejected the sale quired the end user certificate that least 28 fighters were killed, most of arms to rebels for use in Syria the recipient would not sell them of them Islamists, a monitoring or a change in Pakistan’s policy on onwards or transfer to any third group reported. that country under the Saudi pres- country.Sartaj Aziz clarified that sure.Making a policy statement in the points related to the Syrian If the Kurds can keep hold of Tal the National Assembly, Sartaj said conflict contained in the Pakistan- Brak, on a highway between the during the visit of Saudi crown Saudi Arabia joint statement at the cities of Hassaka and Qamishli, it prince to Pakistan, the two sides conclusion of Saudi crown prince would mark a significant advance had only decided to enhance their were in line with the consistent in their quest for wider control in policy of Pakistan on the Syrian the northeast. Online Islamist acbilateral defence cooperation. tivists said fighting was still going situation. on, but the British-based Syrian “We already have three agreeHe said Pakistan was against inObservatory for Human Rights said ments on exchange of military delegations, training and employment terference in the internal affairs of the Kurdish People’s Protection and deputation of defence person- another country or advancing the Units had taken the town. nel in Saudi forces,” he said. He agenda of any other country. He Syrian Kurds have expanded their strongly rejected the media specu- said it was necessary to deal with sway in the northeast, where they lations about a change in Pakistan’s chemical weapons, but it did not are setting up their own adminispolicy on Syria and linking it with mean to heighten unrest and kill tration, since the revolt against thousands of citizens. the visit of Saudi crown prince.

President Bashar al-Assad began “This impression is baseless and misleading that there has been a shift in policy on Syria. Pakistan fully honours national and international laws in its agreements and sale of arms. Pakistan stands by its stance of quick solution to the Syrian conflict and restoration of peace and stability. There should be no doubt about Pakistan’s stance that Syrian sovereignty should not be violated and I reiterate this position of the government,” Sartaj Aziz maintained.

“Furthermore, there should be a transition system with full authority and all parties should cease shelling and aerial attacks,” he said.

Meanwhile, taking part in the debate on Pakistan’s foreign policy, the opposition members warned the government against interference in the affairs of Syria or any other country.

They asked the government to learn a lesson from the U-turns taken on policy in the past saying any change in Pakistan’s principled He urged those spreading rumours stand on non-interference in the to act responsibly in the national affairs of other countries would interest and refrain from propa- further isolate the country in the ganda. “Pakistan is a responsible international community. state and sells arms only through legal mechanism and by abiding all They were of the view that the relevant national and international Government of Pakistan should carefully move forward, particuregulations,” he said. larly towards improving relations Talking about Pakistan’s interna- with Afghanistan, India and Iran. tional obligations as well as the UN resolutions and Geneva Communi- Those who took part in the debate qué, he said Pakistan stood com- included Shafqat Mehmood, Sajid mitted to its stance on the with- Ahmad, Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, drawal of foreign armed forces Ayesha Syed, Dr. Nafeesa Shah, Dr. from Syria, ending siege of differ- Shireen Mazari, Sahibzada Yaqoob ent cities and an end to bombard- and Maulana Amir Zaman.

The Kurdish fighters were in possession of the bodies of 16 of “armed mercenaries” and had taken 42 prisoners, the statement said. It said three Kurdish fighters had also been killed. The Syrian Observatory, an opposition-affiliated watchdog, said at least 25 Islamists had been killed.

Redur Xelil, spokesman for the People’s Protection Units, said: “The operation was over at 5 am and the armed groups and mercenaries that were there were expelled.”

“The town is completely controlled by the People’s Protection Units,” he told Reuters by telephone, adding that nearby villages were also under the group’s control.

Islamists have eclipsed secular groups in the revolt against Assad, but are also now at war with each other in much of Syria, with the Nusra Front and other Islamists fighting ISIL - a group disavowed by al Qaeda. They have also fought the Kurds.

Long oppressed by Damascus, the Kurds have been largely left to their own devices by Syrian government forces fighting rebthree years ago. The People’s Pro- els elsewhere. tection Units said in a statement they had taken Tal Brak after a That has drawn accusations that midnight assault on fighters of the they have made a de facto alliIslamic State of Iraq and the Levant ance with Assad - a charge the Kurds deny.

(ISIL) and other militants.

Terrorism playing havoc with economy: Khursheed Shah He said the government should focus all its attention towards this core issue because until and unless we do not overcome this menace, we cannot strengthen our economy. “Due to terrorism, our country is going backwards day by day and we are lagging behind other countries,” he added.

ISLAMABAD: The opposition leader in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah has said that the deteriorating law and order situation across the country was playing havoc with the national economy.

Shah said that the opposition had given full mandate to the government to cope with the deteriorating law and order situation of the country and was ready to provide all possible assistance in this regard in future. The extremists have not only hurt the country economically but have also destroyed the image of Islam.

11

February - 2014

NEWS

Karzai, Dar for working together Pakistan, Iran must resolve to face common enemies issues through talks: Nisar of the JEC as well as efforts made

by Pakistan in the reconstruction of Afghanistan. President Karzai assured Dar that Afghanistan would fully support any and all initiatives in the bilateral economic area.

They agreed on the primacy of the good brotherly bilateral linkages of the two countries. President Karzai underscored the importance and need for the reconciliation process in his country to ensure a peaceful future for Afghans. He also highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s support in the reconciliation process.

KABUL: Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Finance Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday agreed that Afghanistan and Pakistan faced common challenges and enemies, and there was a The finance minister also conneed to work together to over- veyed the best wishes of Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz come them.

Sharif, which were warmly recipIshaq Dar, who is leading a high- rocated by President Karzai. level delegation to the 9th threeday session of the Joint Economic The meeting was attended by the Commission (JEC) with Afghani- Afghan finance minister, national stan, called on President Karzai security advisor and the presidential advisor on foreign affairs. here.

The finance minister was assisted The Finance Minister briefed the by Mohammad Sadiq, AmbassaAfghan president on the agenda dor of Pakistan to Kabul.

Saudi Arabia against giving missiles to Syrian rebels Syrian rebels based in Jordan.

MOSCOW: Russia on Tuesday warned Saudi Arabia against supplying Syrian rebels with shoulder-launched missile launchers, saying such a move would endanger security across the Middle East and beyond.

It said that the aim was to alter the balance of power in a planned spring offensive by rebels on the regime of President Bashar alAssad.“If this sensitive weapon falls into the hands of extremists and terrorists who have flooded Syria, there is a great probability that in the end it will be used far from the borders of this Middle Eastern country,” the foreign ministry said.

Long-existing tensions between Russia and Saudi Arabia have intensified further as a result of the Syria conflict, with Moscow standing by Assad but Riyadh offering open support for The Russian foreign ministry said the rebels.Russia is widely seen in a statement that it was “deepas Assad’s last remaining major ly concerned” by news reports ally in a conflict that has left an that Saudi Arabia was planning estimated 140,000 people dead to buy Pakistani-made shouldersince it began as a peaceful uprislaunched surface-to-air missiles ing in March 2011 and anti-tank systems for armed

the whole Muslim Ummah. “We must rise above the difficulties to totally nullify the designs of our enemies,” he said.

“We must rise above the current irritants and endeavour to protect the fundamentals of Pak-Iran relations,” Chaudhry Nisar said.

He said the two countries and their security agencies should work together to make the entire Pak-Iran border safe for the comISLAMABAD: Interior Minister mon citizens and a no-go area for Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said militants and terrorists. on Friday that Iran and Pakistan were tied in common religious, He said Pak-Iran relations will be historical and brotherly relations taken to a level which reflects and should resolve issues on ne- strong, close and brotherly regotiations table, not through oth- lations that exist between the people of the two countries. The er ways. minister opined that no militant “Instead of airing views through or terrorist should be allowed the media, it will be more ap- to negatively influence the very propriate if issues are discussed close relations between the two across the table,” the minister countries. said in a meeting with Iranian Ambassador Alireza Haghighian The Iranian ambassador reciprocated the sentiments of Chaudhry here.

Nisar and said the Iranian governChaudhry Nisar said Pakistan’s ment was looking to work closely relations with Iran were embed- with the government of Pakistan ded in common historical, cultur- to further strengthen relations in al, religious, economic and geo- all fields. He said the Iran governgraphical links.The minister said ment was looking forward to the Pakistan-Iran relations are impor- forthcoming visit of Prime Minister tant for the region and also for Muhammad Nawaz Sharif to Iran.

Nine PIA aircraft have become skeletons, NA told

were non-functional.On the other hand, four aircraft have been acquired on lease. Two each have been taken from Turkey and Ukraine.

During the Question-Hour in the NA, he told the house that the government had given a special package of Rs16 billion to repair the damaged aircraft. Aftab said the government inherited a destroyed organisation and for the ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for last 12 years damaged aircraft Parliamentary Affairs Sheikh Af- had been standing idle. tab Ahmad has said that nine aircraft of the Pakistan International Earlier, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Airlines have become skeletons MNA, during the session said that for remaining non-functional for for 33 aircraft, PIA had a large number of employees but their the last many years. performance was dismal. He deHe said that PIA had only 25 func- manded a detailed debate on the tional aircraft out of 34 as nine issue.

12 February - 2014

President calls for early implementation of Pak-China energy projects

NEWS

that Shanghai and Karachi were celebrating the 30th anniversary of the establishment of their sister-city relationship and said that he being a Karachiite feels privileged to be in Shanghai on this joyous occasion.

Regarding his visit to Shanghai, the president said that he was thoroughly impressed by the unprecedented development of Shanghai, adding that its futuristic and ever changing landscape SHANGHAI: President Mamnoon Hussain on Friday said that ener- was a symbol of China’s extraorgy cooperation with China would dinary economic rise and growth help Pakistan meet the growing over the last 30 years. energy challenges and urged the Highlighting the investment opneed for early implementation of portunities in Pakistan, the presithe mutually agreed energy proj- dent said that Pakistan offered ects. immense potential for trade an The president said this during his investment in diverse areas, parmeeting with Executive Deputy ticularly energy, communication Mayor of Shanghai, Tu Guang- and infrastructure, and invited shao here.Welcoming the presi- Chinese investment in these dent to the mega city of Shanghai, fields. the mayor said that the first state visit of the president to China would further augment multifaceted cooperation between the two counties, besides bringing closer the two sister cities, Shanghai and Karachi. The president expressed delight to note

The president thanked the Shanghai government for the warm hospitality during his visit here and said that the time tested friendship between Pakistan and China would be strengthened with each passing day.

sparked violent protests after be- ence, and that she had a right to ing first aired by Egyptian televi- get it removed because she had sion in 2012. been misled by the director and retained copyright protections to “This is a troubling case,” Chief her artistic work.

Judge Alex Kozinski wrote. “Garcia was duped into providing an ar- Google argued that taking the tistic performance that was used video down from YouTube would in a way she never could have be futile because it is now in foreseen.”Garcia sued after she widespread circulation, but the discovered she was in the video, 9th Circuit disagreed. after efforts to persuade Google to take it down from YouTube Judge N. Randy Smith dissented, finding that Garcia did not have were repeatedly rebuffed. a clear protection against the use The actress had been cast in a mi- of her work and that an injuncnor role in a film called “Desert tion against Google goes too far.

Warrior,” and paid $500 by direc- Google can ask the 9th Circuit to tor Mark Basseley Youssef, but the rehear the case with an 11-judge movie never materialised, accord- panel. ing to court papers.

Cris Armenta, a lawyer for GarThe actress discovered her scene cia, said she is delighted with the had instead been used in the an- decision.“Ordering YouTube and ti-Muslim film, which generated Google to take down the film was worldwide attention and was at the right thing to do,” Armenta first cited as a cause of the fatal said in an email. “The propaganattacks on the Libyan embassy in da film differs so radically from Benghazi. anything that Ms Garcia could In her suit, Garcia maintained have imagined when the director that YouTube’s unrivaled popu- told her that she was being cast larity gave the film a broad audi- in the innocent adventure film.”

New cyber crimes agency may be created under fresh law

Regarding international cooperation, the draft law states that the federal government may cooperate with any foreign government, 24x7 network, any foreign agency or any international agency for the purposes of investigations or proceedings.

Remove anti-Islam film from YouTube, US appeals court orders Google WASHINGTON: A US appeals court on Wednesday ordered Google to remove from its YouTube video-sharing website an anti-Islam film that had sparked protests across the Muslim world.

ISLAMABAD: The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2014 has proposed the establishment of a new law enforcing agency for the purpose of investigation and prosecution of offences under this act.

By a 2-1 vote, a panel of the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday rejected Google’s assertion that the removal of the film “Innocence of Muslims,” ent movie.Representatives for amounted to a prior restraint of Google could not immediately be speech that violated the US Con- reached for comment. stitution.

Actress Cindy Lee Garcia had The plaintiff, Cindy Lee Garcia, proved the need to remove the had objected to the film after video from YouTube, the appeals learning that it incorporated a court concluded, in part because clip she had made for a differ- of ongoing death threats since it

The draft law, which has been finalised by the Ministry of Information Technology in consultation with the Ministry of Law, states that the federal government shall designate the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), designate any other law enforcement agency or establish any new law enforcement agency as the special investigation agency for the purposes of investigation and prosecution of offences under this Act.

The federal government may also cooperate with foreign agencies concerning offences related to electronic system and data or for the collection of evidence in electronic form of an offence or obtaining expeditious preservation and disclosure of traffic data or data by means of an electronic system or real-time collection of traffic data associated with specified communications or interception of data or any other means, power, function or provisions under this Act. Unless otherwise provided for under this Act the special investigation agency, the special investigating officer, prosecution and the court shall in all matters follow the procedure laid down in the Code to the extent that it is not inconsistent with any provision of this Act:

13 February - 2014

‘Pak-Iran pipeline not possible due to US sanctions’

NEWS

US officials had earlier warned that the Iran-Pakistan pipeline project would risk triggering sanctions aimed at Iran.

Petroleum Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi told AFP on Tuesday that the work on the pipeline was not possible because it falls under the sanctions imposed by the US and EU.“The work on the Pakistan Iran gas pipeline project is not possible because of the ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday sanctions imposed by the US and said that work on a pipeline to im- EU,” Abbasi said. port gas from Iran cannot proceed because of sanctions imposed by “This project is affected by the the United Sates and the Europe- sanctions imposed,” he told AFP an Union on Tehran. without elaborating on how the sanctions could derail the projThe Iranian side of the $7.5-billion ect. Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Zanproject is almost complete, but ganeh said that his country was Pakistan has run into repeated ready to go ahead with the pipeproblems paying for the 780 ki- line agreement. lometre (485 mile) section to be built on its side of the border.

“Iran is committed to this gas agreement but until Pakistan has Last year, Pakistan had asked Iran not officially relayed its stance, we for $2 billion in financing to build cannot react and make a decision,” its side of the controversial gas he was quoted as saying Tuesday pipeline. Iran has the second largby the Mehr news agency: In late est gas reserves in the world but October Zanganeh had said he has been strangled by a Western had “no hope” for the project, citembargo that has seen its crude ing financial problems. exports halved in the past year.

‘Thar Coal Project Block-II to reduce energy crisis by 10 percent’ coal fired power plant in Thar.

The project was jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and former president Asif Ali Zardari in a ceremony held few weeks back.

MIRPURKHAS: A recent survey report on Thar Coal Project BlockII said the power generation from the project would fulfil the gap of the country’s energy crisis by 10 percent as it would add 660MW power to the national grid through 500kv high-tension transmission lines.

According to the report, a copy of which is available with The News, the main component of power plant will include circulating fluidized bed boiler, steam turbine, power export system and ash handling system.

As the lignite coal will burn at a temperature of 860 degree Celsius, the ‘fly ash’ produced during the process of power generation may be used for the manufacturing of cement and other construction materials. It further said more than 200 skilled people will The report on the project, spread- run the coal project in the long ing over an area of 95.5 Sq Km, term while around 2000 people was conducted by Thar Power will be hired during the construcCompany Ltd, which is to setup tion phase of the project.

Taliban’s women, children not in custody of security agencies: Rehman Malik crimes would lead to reactivation

of the terrorists. He said that it would be hitting axe on the feet.

ISLAMABAD: Former interior minister Rehman Malik has said that the women and children of the Taliban were not in the custody of the security organisations. “The release of prisoners and withdrawal of troops from Waziristan are not new demands of the Taliban. These demands have been repeated since 2004,” he said.

Talking to this correspondent here on Sunday he said talks of ceasefire was above the comprehension. He said the security organisations had been defending the country while the Taliban had imposed war in the shape of suicide attacks and bomb blasts. He said the troops knew well how to tackle the attackers.

Rahman said that the troops and security outfits never arrested ladies and children. However a number of companions of Mulla Fazlullah were in custody and FIRs were there against them.The government could release those involved in heinous crimes if it wished so but it might be kept in mind that in that case demands He said that the withdrawal of from abroad might also come troops from Fata would not be in for the release of Dr Shakil Afthe interest of the country and it ridi. Therefore the government might affect peace efforts. The should keep in mind national inwithdrawal of troops and free- terests before taking crucial deciing prisoners involved in heinous sions, Rehman concluded.

14 February - 2014

NEWS

Army should take over, says Altaf

he does not agree with those who say that this war has been imposed by the US on Pakistan.

“How someone could impose his war on others, instead, we adopted this war with our own will for personal gains and our rulers demanded dollars from the US for joining this battle,” he said. — Online APP adds from Karachi: Altaf Hussain has appealed to the people of ISLAMABAD/LONDON: The MutPunjab to attend the “Sufia Contahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) ference” organised by the MQM chief Altaf Hussain has said if the to tell the terrorists that they will government does not render supnot accept their version of Shariah port for elimination of terrorism, which they want to impose by the then the Pakistan Army should barrel of guns. take over the power for dealing with this menace on its own.

Altaf made this appeal while talking to office bearers and workers Altaf Hussain expressed his views of the MQM in Punjab House, Lain detail over terrorism and deal- hore, on phone, says a statement. ing with the militants along with He urged the party workers and few other issues in an interview office bearers to work for the orgaon Tuesday.“Pakistan is more im- nization of “Sufia Conference” and portant than democracy for us make the event successful. and we cannot imperil our country in the name of democracy,” said Altaf Hussain while expressing his views on the prevailing scenario of the country, adding that if the country will prevail, then democracy will flourish in it.

“I will request the army chief and prime minister of the country to come on the same page for tackling the terrorists, and if the elected regime does not join hands with the army for getting rid of the terrorists, then I would suggest the military to step forward on its own,” he said.

“Dialogue can be held with only those who are ready to hand over their weapons and accept the state and its Constitution, and if the Taliban are not ready for these all things, then a war should be launched against them, instead of the talks,” said the MQM chief.

“Quaid-i-Azam founded Pakistan and announced that now everyone is free for worship according to his faith and belief; there is no compulsion in the religion and none can impose his ideology by force or power of the bullet over others,” he added.

Govt still confused over security policy: MQM

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement has appealed to intellectuals to give their recommendations and suggestions to the prime minister through media regarding the formulation of a national security policy.

The party made this appeal after a joint meeting of its Coordination Committee held in London and Karachi.

The Rabita Committee discussed the national security policy presented by Chaudhry Nisar Ali While commenting on the war Khan, and it was of the opinion against terror, Altaf Hussain said that the government has failed

to formulate a solid policy to ef- odour of charas was spread evfectively tackle terrorism issue in erywhere. Besides, he claimed the country. that women were also brought to the lodges.

The meeting was of the view that the prime minister had failed to “How do the liquor bottles find take measures to tackle the terror- way into the Parliament Lodges?” ism issue after the all parties con- Dasti asked, demanding of the ference which was held in Septem- speaker to hold an inquiry into ber last year, saying, “The policy the issue.He said that girls were presented by the government on brought to the lodges and dance February 26 indicates that it is still parties were arranged, adding hesitating to take measures to deal that he also possessed evidence with the terrorism issue”. in the form of a video about the Mujras held in the lodges.

The committee said the nation was looking towards the National Assembly to come up with an effective policy to eliminate terrorism from the country.

Dasti sees liquor, drugs, women in Parliament Lodges

Speaker Ayaz Sadiq said Dasti should provide proof of these allegations. “If the allegations are true, action would be taken against the responsible and if the allegations are false, parliament will decide Dasti’s punishment,” said the speaker.

Naeema Kishwar, who was chairing the proceedings of the house earlier, ordered to turn off Dasti’s microphone. She said that he could have informed the speaker about the details in his chamber along with the evidence supporting his claims rather than saying it on the floor of the House.

Raza Hayat Hiraj, protesting against the remarks of Jamshed Dasti, said he was unnecessarily attacking the parliamentarians who were the elected representatives of the country. “Dasti did not accuse one person but raised a finger on all the parliamentarians,” he said, and demanded that he ISLAMABAD: An independent should produce proof and go to a member of the National Assem- police station to lodge a complaint. bly Jamshed Dasti on Thursday INP adds: MQM’s MNA Nabeel made a startling revelation in Gabol supported Jamshed Dasti’s the assembly that the Parliament revelations about the use of liLodges, where the parliamentarquor.Talking to media persons, he ians are residing, have become said that he also saw some una centre of immoral activities, known women in the Parliament where Mujras (dance parties) are Lodges at around 2:00am. being arranged and liquor and charas are supplied.

“When I contacted the security guard regarding the women, the “The Parliament Lodges have guard informed me that it was a turned into a centre of immoral daily routine that some unknown activities and holding of Mujras women visited the Parliament (dance parties) bas become a Lodges around late night,” he routine matter,” Dasti alleged, said. while speaking on a point of order in the National Assembly.He said Nabeel Gabol said that he did laboratory tests of all parliamen- not want to reveal such informatarians should be conducted to tion as he was a married man but detect cannabis. He also claimed Dasti was a bachelor. The MQM that liquor worth millions of ru- MNA demanded the speaker to pees was being supplied in the take notice of immoral activities Parliament Lodges while the in the Parliament Lodges.

15 February - 2014

Haji Abdul Razzaq Yaqoob passes away

NEWS

bered. The vacuum his death had created would not be filled.

Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Deputy Speaker Murtaza Javed Abbasi also expressed condolence. In their separate messages to the bereaved family, they paid rich tribute to his services for the country and in the field of journalism. They expressed their deep sense of grief and sorrow over the demise and prayed for eternal peace of departed soul ISLAMABAD: Haji Abdul Raz- and grant of strength and fortitude zaq Yaqoob, Chairman of ARY TV to members of the bereaved famchannel passed away after pro- ily to bear the irreparable loss with tracted illness on Friday. He was equanimity.

69.

Pakistan Muslim League-Q (PMLPresident Mamnoon Hussain, Q) President Chaudhry Shujaat Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Hussain also expressed deep and Information Minister Pervaiz grief and sorrow over his demise.

Rashid expressed condolence on Talking to a private TV channel his death.They termed his death Shujaat Hussain prayed that Alas a great loss to the country.They lah Almighty might rest his soul in said that the services rendered eternal peace and grant courage by the deceased for the cause to the bereaved family to bear of journalism would be remem- this loss.

Flower show begins at Seaview park

Park, CBC Hilal Park and CBC Rahat Park.

In the category of beautification of spots, DHA Gizri Hilltop got the first prize while Getz Pharma Roundabout stood second.

Scores of visitors attended the first day of the 63rd Pakistan Flower Show that kicked off at the DHA Seaview Public Park. The flower show will continue till Sunday.

A large number of individuals, organisations, amateurs and professionals are participating in the annual flower show being organised by the Horticultural Society of Pakistan (HSP) in collaboration with Defence Housing Authority and Cantonment Board Clifton.

The Flag Staff House got the first prize in official bungalows in the large gardens category while the Station Commander’s House won in the official bungalow gardens on a small scale. The Sindh Club won the club gardens (large) competition while the Karachi Boat Club won the small garden category. DHA Tooba Masjid got the first prize in mosque garden category.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan got the first prize in institute gardens while the DHA Degree College For Men won in the category of colleges/ universities gardens.

Meanwhile, the DHA stood first in the flower show competition In the categories of large, me- and was awarded the coveted dium and small parks the first Abdul Sattar Pirzada Trophy. prizes went to the DA Zamzama

16 February - 2014

Mafias, terrorists have taken hold of Karachi: CJ

KARACHI: Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani on Thursday said that different mafias and terrorists have taken hold of Karachi.

“Today violence, murder and mayhem make headlines in what was once a peaceful city,” the chief justice observed while addressing the oath-taking ceremony of the Karachi Bar Association at the Sindh High Court’ lawn.

“According to an estimate about 2,000 people died in the preceding year and the state of the rule of law can be fathomed from the fact that according to the report more than half of the vehicles being plied in the city are without valid papers,” he said. “This is what we have made of the city of Quaid.”

He said that the deteriorating law and order and the increasing insecurity to life and property and menace of terrorism has added another disturbing dimension and being the largest city and the economic hub of the country the culprits have chosen this city to destabilize it socially, culturally and economically consequently affecting the businesses and people at large across the country.

He said that after creation of the country people from different regions, which now constitute Pakistan, came to the Karachi considering it to be a vibrant place for business and opportunity however their dreams have turned into “nightmares”.

He said that education deficit and a myopic interpretation of tenets

NEWS

of law is established in letter and spirit. He said that Supreme Court had already given a detailed judgment wherein it has particularly addressed the law and order situof Islam confounded the situation and fair competition turned ation in Karachi. However, he obinto a battle forts between vari- served, every State institution is ous groups and several societal under a constitutional command issues surfaced i.e. the conflicts to comply with the judgments of between the haves and have- the court. nots, between the locals and MoJustice Jillani said that court hajirs, between Shia and Sunnis, alone cannot bring about the and on the question as to who is change but it moral authority Muslim and who is not. and peoples’ trust in the insti“Violence rooted in political, sec- tution on account of which the tarian and underworld rivalries, judgments are respected. He said has taken many a precious lives. that Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Sadly the rate of violent deaths Ali Jinnah talked about of equalhas risen in the recent months ity, of tolerance, of freedom and and the law enforcers seem to of social justice and these values be helpless in stemming this,” he are part of our faith, part of our Constitution which unfortunately observed. are being flouted adding that we Chief Justice observed that temp- have to revive those values of eqtation to overreach or bypass uity, tolerance and compassion principles of the rule of law ei- that characterize the true spirit ther by the government or by of our faith. the Parliament would be counter-productive.“Let the struggle He said that there were situations against terrorism be not conduct- when such values and the rights ed beyond law but within its am- enshrined in the Constitution are bit,” he observed. “Ends do not flouted and as a consequence, the ideals remain dreams and justify means.” goals remain elusive.

He said that neglect of legal norms in the name of terrorism “There is an ongoing conflict becannot be justified because re- tween those who want to uphold spect for the rule of law is what these values and those who want distinguishes a civil society from to flout in the name of their narterrorists. “They act against the row world view and of what is law while the State acts within right and wrong,” he said adding the parameters of law and the that future of the country would Constitution. If these principles be defined by the outcome of are disregarded, it would endan- this ongoing societal conflict. ger the values which a democracy He said that several developed countries like England, US had seeks to protect,” he observed. to face terrorism and expressed CJP was of the view that war hope that people of the country against terror cannot succeed un- will overcome such testing times. less there is cultural transforma- He appreciated the Karachi Bar tion and unless the people or the Association for designing courses citizenry own it and extend their for legal education. support.He said that legislature has to enact appropriate laws to Chief Justice of Sindh High Court protect the people and promote Justice Maqbool Baqar said that democratic values while the ex- SHC will assist the Karachi Bar ecutive has to enforce these laws. Association in young lawyers’ “Laws are essential but not suf- professional training programs. ficient in countering intolerance. He said that efforts were underIntolerance is rooted in ignorance way to mitigate the issues being and fear, to an exaggerated sense faced by the subordinate courts. of worth and pride, be it personal, Karachi Bar Association President collective or religious,” he added. Salahuddin Ahmed highlighted the problems being faced by the He said that Supreme Court is legal fraternity announced that cognizant of the crisis and it will KBA will launch advocacy course do its best to ensure that the rule for young lawyers.

PTI ends Nato supplies blockade

ISLAMABAD: The core committee of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on Thursday decided to end the blockade of Nato supplies, following the Peshawar High Court (PHC) ruling that declared the act illegal and unconstitutional and asked the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government to ensure the rule of law.

The core committee has counted ‘fruits’ of the blockade of the Nato supplies and described it a success of the party workers. An announcement issued after the meeting presided over by PTI Chairman Imran Khan, claimed credit that the pressure of the blockade had already resulted in a shift in the Obama administration’s drone policy and as a result, drone attacks had been halted for the present.

The court had ruled on Tuesday the blockade and checking of trucks and containers taking goods to Afghanistan illegal and unconstitutional. The ruling against the PTI and its allies’ campaign, started in late November last year, is unique in its nature.

The announcement reminded that earlier it was the PTI that had built up pressure against drones by its Waziristan march, supported by international human right groups. The core committee thanked all its workers, who had helped make the Nato supply blockade ‘a success’.

17 February - 2014

NEWS

In Perspective: SOCH – A Warranted Endeavor for Civil Hospital Karachi.

By Hafsa Mohiuddin, Volunteer SOCH (3rd year DMC)

Anyone who has visited Civil Hospital, Karachi (CHK), in the recent years can bear witness to the appalling state of cleanliness and hygiene in most areas of the hospital.

Trails of sewage from gaping manholes often isolate the OPD and Emergency department; most of the wards are frequented by feline visits, especially attending to the aroma of food being served to the patients; cobwebs and dust-coated windows are a common sight, further making the wards prone to infestation by bugs. However, the blame cannot be simply pinned on the administration or medical staff due to various underlying factors like general hygiene awareness and ethical standing of society in general.

The reason for highlighting the aforementioned dilapidated state of affairs in CHK is not to disparage or defame the hospital or the administration. It’s not meant to belittle the efforts of the doctors and paramedical staff who continue to persevere in those surroundings day in and day out and do what they can for the patients. A haven for the patients unable to afford private sector healthcare facilities and alma mater for countless excellent doctors around the globe, CHK deserves our thoughtfulness and practical efforts to make it a better place. Armchair activism is not what will help CHK, we will, if we try to and that is why SOCH was born in April 2010 with the aim to Serve Our Civil Hospital.

Starting out as a small group of students from Dow Medical College, Karachi, the SOCH team has been expanding over the years with the motive of giving back to CHK with the two basic aims of infection control and improving the general state of cleanliness of CHK infrastructure. Since infection control is a rather cumbersome plan which involves educating the masses regarding general hygiene and major infectious diseases, SOCH aims to achieve that by organizing various campaigns in CHK to interact with the masses and help them understand the significance of personal hygiene.

Duly, our pilot project consisted of two campaigns, namely ‘Safai Nisf Eman’ and ‘Paigham-e-Sehat’, under the banner of ‘SOCH hai sehat ki’. While Safai Nisf Eman was targeted at repainting and thorough cleaning of the Gyneacology Unit 1 of CHK by keen volunteers, the Paigham e Sehat campaign aimed to raise basic health awareness among the patients and attendants by demonstrating to them the steps of proper hand washing.

In order to effectively impart this awareness, groups of volunteers approached each bed in the Gyneacology and Peadriatics wards.

Not only did the patients and their attendants welcome these efforts but the faculty and staff also valued them. In September 2011, SOCH also launched its Dengue Prevention and Control Program to provide awareness to the patients of CHK. As part of its second aim, SOCH hired a team of janitors and began supplying cleaning chemicals to a couple of wards. Gyneacolgy and Paedriarics Units have also benefited from the efforts of SOCH

in terms of maintenance and im- tinue to work towards creating a provement of general cleanliness more positive outlook of CHK, as and infrastructure. it rightly deserves. By serving our Civil Hospital, we serve the ailing SOCH started out with the idea patients, hoping to provide them of giving back to the medical with opportunities of a better community and hence it will con- healthcare experience.

SOCH member treating and prescribing medicine for scabies and other infectious disease to flood affected refugees in Mirpur Khas.

SOCH’s medical student volunteers cleaning a filthy ward.

School Volunteer Program volunteers giving awareness of hepatitis to outpatients.

Pamphlets about preventive mea-

SOCH members teaching the proper

sures distributed to patients in Urdu.

method of handwashing to patients.

18 February - 2014

NEWS

Chicago Welcomes Newly appointed Indian Ambassador to USA

Asian Media USA ©

commissioner to Singapore etc.

During era of President Bush he played a key role in negotiating the US-India civil nuclear agreement.. He is a graduate of St. Stephen’s College at the University of Delhi, and has an M.A. in Political Science and an M. Phil. and PhD in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University , where he specialized in Nuclear Diplomacy.

Chicago IL: Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Consul General of India invited the business, community leaders and special guests to a welcome newly appointed honorable Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Ambassador of India to the United States of America, The event was held at Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604, on Thursday, February 27, 2014.

Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has been appointed as the Ambassador of India to the United States of America in succession to Smt. Nirupama Rao. As India’s Ambassador to USA, he has a great challenge and opportunities ahead to build new bridges of friendship and strengthen relations in spite of current blip in our relations.

The welcome ceremony started with social hours with cheese wine reception along with specially prepared Indian appetizer.

This was followed by opening remarks and welcoming address by the host Hon. Ausaf Saieed. He welcomed all dignitaries present and appreciated their presence despite bitterly cold subzero weather. He gave brief introduction of Ambassador of India honorable Subramanian Jaishankar.

Indian envoy to US said that ‘romance phase of courtship’ has ended, and hard work is ahead.

Speaking in sub-zero temperatures outside and against the backdrop of cooling of ties between the India and the United States, India’s new ambassador to Washington S Jaishankar told American diplomats, corporate and strategic elites on Thursday that although “current sentiment seems less than positive,” the two countries “can neither afford Honorary Subrahmanyam Jais- dilution of attention nor weakenhankar born on 9 January 1955 is ing of faith” in ties that were ala career Indian civil servant and ways fated to come together. diplomat with impeccable credentials. His previous appoint- S. Jaishankar, India’s ambassaments included India’s Ambas- dor to the U.S., says he wants to sador to the People’s Republic of aim high to elevate confidence China and Czech Republic, High of the India-U.S. relationship. As

you would say in the markets, the fundamentals are good, it’s the sentiment that needs improving,’ he said. India has warned the United States of negative consequences for its future economy if lawmakers tighten visa rules on high-tech firms as part of an immigration overhaul.

At the conclusion of his address, Hon. Ambassador of India Subramanyam Jaishankar thanked Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Consul General of India to host the memorable event. He emphasized the need and importance of close mutually beneficial relationship between India and US mainly because both are world’s old and leading Democratic Nations.

On this occasion, present on Behalf of Governor of Illinois Quinn, Ms. Theresa Mah Senior Policy Advisor & Director of Asian American Outreach read welcoming and congratulatory message.

There were many dignitaries present in the audience which included Swati Dandekar,State Rep. Iowa; Tony Preckwinkle, President, Cook County Board of Com-

missioner; Ameya Pawar, Alderman, 47th Ward; Divya Sarang, Public Prosecutor, Chicago City Hall; Daniel Goff, Dy. Dir. Trade & Investment, State of Illinois; Andrew Spinelli, Dy, Dir., Mayor’s Office; Amardeep Kaleka, Candidate, Congressman; Manju Goel, Candidate, Congressman; Doro-

thy Brown, Cook County ; Douglas Druick, President, Art Institute; Dr. Bharat Barai, Oncologist and Leading Community Leader; Naren Patel. CEO Medstar Laboratories and Leading Community Leader; Sanosh Kumar Executive Director MAFS; Team of Indian Association of Indiapolis; Hemant

Shah, President, Jain Society; Rajinder Singh Mago; Harijinder Singh Kheira; Balvindersingh; Basanti Banerjee; Niranjan Shah; Dr. Asit Sen; and many more.

Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman; Dr. Chandrakant Modi, President, Jyotikumar Chokshi, Editor and Vipul Patel Videographer from Asian Media USA covered the entire event. During Reception

of Indian Ambassador of USA Dr. Jaishankar, Asian Media USA had a privilege to interview many Dignitaries where they were asked to give their personal views about the event organized by CG Chicago to welcome Ambassador.

Following are public response: continued...

19 February - 2014

Dr. Bharat Barai most prolific personality of Chicagoland Area, a well-known Oncologist by Profession and Always available person when community needs said, “I am honored to be here on this occasion. I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Jaishankar at his residence in a dinner hosted in favor of Congressman Ami Bera and Crowly. Dr. Jaishankar is a knowledgeable and humble man and he knows the issues of Indo-US relationship and I am confident that he will bring India and US closer during his term. Consulate General Office at Chicago is doing commendable job.”

Naren Patel another most efficient personality and CEO of Medstar Laboratory said, “The

event went wonderful. Views presented by Dr. Jaishankar were really thought provoking and impressed all. He is a right person at Washington and I am confident that he will succeed in his mission of bringing India and US closer.

He has vast experience and I wish him grand success.”

Rishikant Singh, Manager Midwest of Air India who has been attending almost all events and works for success of Air India said, “It is a great pleasure to welcome Dr. S Jaishankar in Chicago and wished him success in his mission to USA and he will succeed in his mission to bring India-US closer in politically and in Business.”

NEWS

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February - 2014

Akmal and spinners guide Pakistan to tense win

SPORTS “The bowlers put in a great effort, boundaries and two sixes in the especially the three spinners,” progress as Pakistan mustered 84 Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq runs in the last 10 overs. said.

“Umar Akmal played very well in Afghanistan — which have quali- the end to put a big total on the fied for the World T20 next month board and his drop was the turnand the World Cup in 2015 — ex- ing point,” Nabi said. ploited Pakistan’s shaky top order after captain Mohammad Nabi won the toss and elected to bowl.

The opening pair of Ahmed Shehzad (50) and Sharjeel Khan (25) provided a decent start of 55 before the innings disintegrated, mainly due to poor strokes.

WI, England face-off in search of revival

“The shot selection from the batsmen was disappointing,” Misbah said.

“They did not read the pitch well and were playing like how it behaved in the first match. They were eyeing the kind of total in the first game, but this was turning and playing low as well.”

Sharjeel, Mohammad Hafeez (10), Sohaib Maqsood (13) and Shahid Afridi (6), all fell to reckless shots while Samiullah Shenwari clean-bowled Shehzad off FATULLAH, Bangladesh: Umar Ak- a flatter delivery in his first over mal whacked his first One-day In- soon after the opener completed ternational century in more than his half-century. four years as he and Pakistan’s spinners spoiled Afghanistan’s Misbah was run out in bizarre maiden Asia Cup appearance fashion without facing a delivery with a clinical 72-run victory on in a mix-up with Maqsood.

Thursday.

Anwar Ali, the only change made Akmal’s unbeaten 102 off 89 balls by Pakistan from the team that led Pakistan to 248-8 before Mo- lost the opening match against Sri hammad Hafeez, Saeed Ajmal Lanka, dragged the total to 146 and Shahid Afridi shared six wick- before Shenwari could not hold ets to bowl out Afghanistan for onto Umar Akmal’s skier off leftarm fast bowler Shapoor Zadran 176 in 47.2 overs. in the second batting powerplay Earlier, Afghanistan had Pakistan when the batsman was on 28. on the ropes at 117-6 before Akmal took charge, notching seven “When the ball was going in the fours and three sixes for his first air I was hoping it would get ODI century since an unbeaten dropped and I would continue my innings,” Akmal said after receiv102 against Sri Lanka in 2009. ing his man of the match award.

Opening batsman Noor Ali Zadran top-scored for Afghanistan — hit- He pounced on the dropped ting seven fours in his 44 — but catch and completed his halfthe other Afghan batsmen strug- century off 60 balls before Anwar gled to read the variations of was brilliantly caught by former Hafeez (3-29) and Ajmal (2-25) captain Nowroz Mangal, who ran as Afghanistan lost their last four back from mid-off and plucked a two-handed catch. wickets for only four runs.

NORTH SOUND, Antigua and Barbuda: Two teams in dire need of rehabilitation ahead of the next global cricketing contest start what should be an intriguing fortnight of competition on Friday (today) when the West Indies host England in Antigua.

Both squads are without key performers going into the opening exchanges at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

On England’s last visit to the Caribbean in 2009, the scheduled second Test in the same North Sound venue lasted all of nine deliveries before it was abandoned due to a poorly-prepared outfield. Then, Kevin Pietersen had just been replaced as captain by Andrew Strauss.

Now, he is out of the picture altogether, the general perception being that for all his abundant batting talent, he is too much of a maverick to be accommodated at a time when all hands are needed on deck.

Weightlifting C’ship from March 18

While the next World Cup in Australia and New Zealand is still just under a year away, the Caribbean side’s defence of the World T20 crown begins in three weeks’ time in Bangladesh.

So it will be no surprise if there is even greater interest and purpose attached to the three T20 fixtures between Dwayne Bravo’s men and Stuart Broad’s side in Barbados the week following the final One-day International (ODI).

KARACHI: National Senior Men’s Weightlifting Championship 2013-14 will be held from March 18 to 20 at the Punjab University Ground in Lahore, Pakistan Weightlifting Federation (PWF) has announced.

However, in the almost immediate aftermath of horrendous foreign campaigns, victories for either side in any format and against any opposition will be welcome.

The competitions will be contested in categories of 56kg, 62kg, 69kg, 77kg, 85kg, 94kg, 105kg and above 105kg.

The participants will be WAPDA, Higher Education Commission (HEC), Railways, Army, Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), GilgitBaltistan and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).

England’s annihilation in Australia over all three established formats of the game grabbed most international attention, but the West Indies also endured humiliAsghar Stanikzai laboured for his However, Akmal upped the scor- ating Test series defeats in India 40 off 91 deliveries before falling ing rate at a brisk pace by rais- and New Zealand, despite per- All these affiliated units of PWF to Afridi as the spinners never al- ing his second 50 off a mere 28 forming more creditably in the have been advised to confirm lowed Afghanistan to score freely. deliveries and hitting five more one-dayers. their participation by March 6.

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February - 2014

Hold your breath for Napa’s 23-day int’l theatre festival

SHOWBIZ happy with my work,” she added.

The great man has three children with his longtime partner, Mimi Released March 14, the film has O’Donnell. Born in upstate New reportedly managed to earn a lit- York, Hoffman burst onto the film tle above Rs.9 crore. scene after more than a dozen earDirected by debutante Nupur Ast- lier roles, including 1997’s “Boogie hana, “Bewakoofiyaan” also fea- Nights,” in which he played a lovetures Ayushmann Khurrana and lorn gay man in the movie about the porn industry. Furthermore, Rishi Kapoor. won the Academy Award for Best Actor for the 2005 biographical Zain said the festival will also infilm “Capote” and received three clude dramatic readings and stoAcademy Award nominations as rytelling sessions for children. He Best Supporting Actor, for “Charlie said that Nasiruddin Shah’s first Wilson’s War” in 2008, “Doubt” in show was already sold out while 2009, and most recently for “The half the tickets for his second perMaster” last year. formance were booked.

Philip Seymour Hoffman Found Dead In His New York Apartment

“The academy will charge Rs 2,000 for ‘Asmat Apa ke Naam’ and for other foreign performances the price will be Rs1,000,” he said.

“However, for the performance of The National Academy of Perform- Pakistani groups the tickets will ing Arts (Napa) is all set to begin be for Rs600 with 50 per cent disthe biggest initiative since its in- count for students.” ception.

The festival is being sponsored by A 23-day long International The- Karachi Youth Initiative (KYI). atre Festival, including performances from international groups “Karachi will have non-stop treat of from England, India and Nepal, theatre performances for almost will begin from March 4 and will three weeks. This is a rare treat for the city,” said Arshad Mehmood, continue till March 27. the director programmes and adAt a press conference held at the ministration at NAPA. NAPA auditorium on Thursday, Zain Ahmed, the artistic director of Napa Repertory Theatre (NRT) announced that legendary Indian actor Nasiruddin Shah will also be brining in his theatre group to the festival and his performance “will certainly be the main attraction”.

He said that Shah’s troupe will perform for three consecutive days, beginning from March 5, a play titled, ‘Ismat Apa Ke Naam’. Besides Shah’s troupe, another Indian theatre group Saltlake Mohnitharan will perform a play called ‘Raddi Bazar India’.

Slated to be the biggest performing arts festival in the city, the event will also include performances from local groups such as Tehreek-e-Niswan, Ajoka Theatre and a number of Napa-based professional troupes.

An England-based group by the name of Fuel Theatre is also participating in the festival through the British Council and the Goethe Institute has also signed up a German group named Brigel Gjoka.

Happy with my work in

‘Bewakoofiyaan’:

Sonam Kapoor

Hoffman spoke in the past of struggling with drugs, including a 2006 interview in which he told CBS he had abused “anything I could get my hands on. I liked it all.”

Flowers were left outside the residence of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman who was pronounced dead of an apparent overdose on Feb. 02, 2014.

The Oscar-winning character-actor, Philip Seymour Hoffman found dead in his New York apartment after suffering an apparent drugs overdose.

Ali Zafar and SRK jam the night away

It was reported that the 46-yearold actor was found dead in Manhattan’s West Village by a visiting friend at around 11.30 am this morning. Officials from the Medical Examiner’s office found that this has happened due to drugs overdose.

Some has found that a screenwriter found him lying on the bathroom floor of his apartment with a needle and syringe still stuck into his arm, according to several reports citing police sources. Moreover, A friend of Hoffman found the actor fully clothed in the bathroom of his home. Two envelopes containing what appeared to be heroin was also found at his side, Yash Raj Films’ “Bewakoofiyaan” said the New York Times, citing pomay not have been received well lice sources. but its lead actress Sonam is happy with her work in the romantic “We are devastated by the loss of comedy. our beloved Phil and appreciate the outpouring of love and sup“I am happy with the response to port we have received from evthe film. If you get critical acclaim, eryone,” Hoffman’s family said in it does not translate into box of- a statement it gave to CNBC. “This fice success,” Sonam told report- is a tragic and sudden loss and we ers here Tuesday at the launch of ask that you respect our privacy a ghazal album. during this time of grieving. Please keep Phil in your thoughts and “There is not much you can do if it prayers.” does average (business)...but I am

Appreciating his upcoming venture of Total Siyappa and his vocal prowess both the stars had a good laugh discussing his very first hit “Sun Reh Sajanaiya”. Shah Rukh also insisted on claiming that Ali Zafar had sang a song named “har su” whereas,laughing, he kept on denying it.

Jamming the night with King the duo shared a good laugh as Ali tweeted that he was King Khan for a reason. Pakistani singer-actor Ali Zafar, who is gearing up for the release of his next Bollywood venture Total Siyappa has been promoting his new movie on all fronts .

Ali Zafar has already established himself well enough in India to create anticipation as audiences look forward to the release of Total Siyappa.

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Health - Beauty Tips

February - 2014

take these things in the start of the day. Protein diet doesn’t even make you fat; it actually makes your body healthy. People who are diet must always have a breakfast full of protein diet so that they may feel fresh and full of energy.

Metal Detector Nail Trend

5 Things To Keep In veryone has E different New Your Diet For Year resolutions, 2014 many people wish to have lot of money, some wish to have successful career but there are very few who focus on health. Some people New Year resolution is that they will quit some bad habits such as smoking and drinking and some says they will lose weight.

There are many things which make us fat and one must concentrate more on what to eat and what to avoid. Here we will talk about 5 things to keep in your diet for 2014 and these 5 things are full of nutrients. Access of everything is bad, but some foods are that much important for the health that without them one cannot have a healthy lifestyle.

One of the 5 things to keep in your diet for 2014 is whole grain.

In Pakistan, everyone eat whole grain and it is the part of our diet, the meal is incomplete without it.

Whole grain is full of energy and nutrients. It is full of fibers which is really important for health. Fibers are very important when you take meal as it makes you feel that you are full and it help to reduce the risk of blood pressure and other harmful diseases. Now everything is available in whole grain such as bread, pita bread and even bakery items. Start eating and feel the difference.

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One of the most important out of 5 things to keep in your diet for 2014 is protein diet in the breakfast. The diet which has proteins in it is good for the system; it actually keeps you energetic all day long. There are many things which are full of proteins such as eggs, yogurt, butter, avocado, nuts such as peanuts. One must

Classy pale gold hue: Make a fashionable statement and add instant sophisticated touch in your beauty regimen with shinier eautiful nails and marvelous nail paints are always catchy pale gold hue. Being the classy and attention grabbing. This time shade, pale gold hue is still the metal detector nail trend is pre- choice of majority of females. Exvailing everywhere. From fashion periment with metallic texture on weeks and runways to beauty sa- your ten digits for modern ultra lons and makeup counters, you feel. will find metal detector nail trend.

B

Add metallic detector nail trend in the list of must have things this season. Metallic shiny nail polishes range from bold to subdue.

Subdued shades are ideal for office going ladies while if you are going for a night party with friends and family then grab bold metallic shade. Whatever shade of metallic detector nail polish you opt, Life is incomplete without eatyour nails will look outrageous. ing sweets. One of the 5 things to keep in your diet for 2014 is eat- Choose glitz and glam shiny nail ing sweets. It is natural that we all paint that will instantly grab athave sweet tooth and after dinner tention and you will be noticed in we all want to have little sweet to crowd. The name metal detector satisfy our sweet tooth. Don’t eat also suggests that metal nail colors too much it is harmful for health. can be easily detected everywhere Eat things such as ice cream, choc- with their shiny glide textured olates, milk shakes, cakes, donuts, hues. The shades for metal detecfrozen yogurt and not the least tor nail trend are not just available dark chochalte. Some desserts are in classy shades of silver, golden, very tempting so eat them once a copper and bronze but go for alweek; it is good to eat it. Don’t eat ternative shades as multiple new these sweets before going to bed shades are available in market. always eat them prior to it to stay Do remember that glitz and glam healthy and smart. of shiny metallic nail paints is not One cannot miss to eat vege- about glittery chunky nails rather tables and pulses. The 5 things to it is delicate mirrored texture that keep in your diet for 2014 are veg- you must add in your makeup atetables and pulses, as pulses have tire to enhance your beauty of equivalent energy as meat has. your nails and hands. For all meVegetables are good source of fi- tallic nail paint lovers, here are ber and help to protect against some most detectable shades of diseases. Vegetables and pulses metallic nails paints. have low calories so they help us Red: to look smart and you stay active.

Green vegetables are full of iron Red color is always looks hot. For and potassium which is important more playful ladies, metallic red for the body. These vegetables will look really flattering. Allow and pulses are the gift of God, so your nails to indulge in pure shiny one must eat them more to stay texture of red and get bright shiny healthy and smart. glamorous nails. From celebrities to models, everyone flaunt and

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Bluish purple: If you don’t want to go for brighter shades, then a must have nail paint is bluish purple. Get impactful digits by using bluish purple metallic shade that looks perfect with outfits from plain to glam.

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Fruits are very important for a healthy lifestyle. 5 things to keep in your diet for 2014 are good seasonal fruits. In Pakistan, each fruit is available according to the season. Fruits make your system looks fresh and healthy.

One can skip lunch and have fruit. Fruits are the treatment of much disease such as constipation, headache and fever. Fruits are full of energy and full of vitamins which are necessary for the body. Anything that is natural which benefit your body as long as you don’t eat it too much.

Fruits make your system run efficiently and it is the best thing to eat as it natural.

loves this shade. So, why wouldn’t you rock it?

Green:

Cover your nails in bright metallic shiny green shade that will instantly put you in pleasant mood.

Simply go with pretty green shade and gets extra indulgence. Make everyone adore your crush worthy digits with bright glam green shade.

Blue: Let your nails sparkle with sparkle blue shade. For chic ladies, this trend really fits. Women loves to go all matchy matchy. This hue will compliment your blue dress, blue shoes and makeup as well.

Why don’t you go for mirror textured navy shade?

Bronze: For gorgeously glided nails, bronze tones are perfect. No metallic is as classy and shiner as bronze is. This classy shade will surely help you to grab attention and make your hands gorgeous with glided classy touch.

Silver: Go for metallic classy silver nail shade for chrome like effect on your nails. You are going to rock and look gorgeous with outrageous shade of metallic silver.

Soft pink: If you love soft hues, go for soft pink shiny nails. For soft hues lovers, the shade of shiny soft pink would be a perfect choice. Try a beautiful mix of delicate soft pink shade with soft shinning that will add glam and glitz in your beauty regimen.

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