Issuu

Saturday, 10 April, 2021 I 26 Shaban, 1442 I Rs 15.00 I Vol XI No 282 I 12 Pages I Karachi Edition

US intel report warnS miScalcUlationS may lead to indo-pak war g

The reporT noTes The role of IT In dIssemInaTIng InformaTIon and shapIng The narraTIves wIThIn The counTrIes

isLAmAbAd

staff report

n intelligence report by the us government’s national Intelligence council has warned that miscalculations could result in a large-scale war between the neighbouring nuclear states. The report, which was released earlier this week, is included in a global Trends report produced every four years. Its prerogative is to predict likely outcomes within the global sphere over the next five to 20 years so policymakers may anticipate the forces that shape the world and adjust their decisions accordingly. “miscalculation by both governments could prompt a breakdown in the deterrence that has restricted conflict to levels

each side judges it can manage,” the report read, adding that a full-scale war between India and pakistan could have economic and political repercussions that would be felt for years to come. referring to new delhi’s resolve to retaliate against Islamabad “following a terrorist attack that the Indian government judges to be significant”, the report stated that the ability of militant groups to conduct such attacks, Inda’s retaliatory inclinations, and pakistan’s commitment to defend itself would only increase over the next five years. The report also warned against an “abrupt us exit” from afghanistan. It predicted that any security vacuum within afghanistan would likely trigger a civil war between the Taliban and its afghan opponents, which in turn would expand the free-

dom of movement for various regional terrorist outfits, as well as criminals and refugees flowing out of the country. The consequence of the above-stated scenario would sharpen the differences between India and new dehli, particularly in regard to cementing prevailing judgments about covert warfare in Islamabad and new delhi. The report also noted that afghanistan is seeing an intensification of ethnic tensions between pashtuns and other ethnic groups, a trend that is accelerating as afghans prepare for the withdrawal of western troops. The us intelligence community estimates that India and china may also slip into a conflict that neither government intends, “especially if military forces escalate a conflict quickly to challenge each other on a critical part of the contested border”. This statement was in reference to the short military conflict between India and china, wherein at least 20 soldiers of the former perished, and the incident therein heightened the rivalry between Beijing and new delhi and sharply affected international perceptions of both countries. while trade between south asian countries is already among the lowest globally, the report stated that it is unlikely to improve over the next five years due to the hostilities between India and pakistan. The intelligence report also highlighted that pakistan may face a state of complete water scarcity within the next five years due to poor water conservation practices, rising temperatures, and decreased rainfall.

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Pakistan in battle to hold mafias accountable, asserts PM Imran LAHORE staff report

prime minister Imran Khan said that a “full battle” is underway in paksitan to hold the forces of the mafia accountable and bring the country closer to the vision of a welfare state like the state of medina through the naya pakistan scheme The prime minister said that the state of medina was based on two golden principles of rule of law and humanity while breaking ground for construction of affordable apartments under his naya pakistan housing programme to provide shelter to low-income groups. The naya pakistan apartments would be built in the lahore development authority (lda) city, a pm office (pmo) press release said earlier. In a tweet, punjab chief minister sardar usman Buzdar said that the prime minister would lay the foundation for 35,000 affordable apartments. pm Imran, during his address, said that the scandinavian welfare states and others in the west were also pursuing very noble principles. “Today, a full battle is going on pakistan to make big mafias ac-

countable before the law. There are big political mafias too which are resisting the rule of law. This a defining moment for pakistan. as we establish the writ of law, the society will be liberated,” he said. he underscored that the state of medina had taken full responsibility for its poor people despite resource constraint. The pm said that the incumbent government was also trying to follow the same principles by extending universal health coverage, building panagahs and introducing mobile kitchens for the poor. he said that the Khyber pakhtunkhwa (Kp) government had extended sehat Insaf card to the entire population while punjab would also achieve the same by this year’s end to make the beneficiaries avail the free medical treatment of up to rs1 million. he added that even certain developed countries did not have such universal health coverage. Quoting a recently published united nations development programme (undp) report, the prime minister said, as per the un data, the poverty ratio had declined in Kp province during the last seven years while the human development index (hdI) had shown a positive trend.

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Saturday, 10 April, 2021

KARACHI

NEWS

PPP, ANP PlAN formiNg New oPPoSitioN AlliANce with likemiNded PArtieS PDM ON DEATH BED AS PPP SET TO BID GOODBYE ISLAMABAD

MIAN AbrAr

AKISTAN People’s Party (PPP) and Awami National Party (ANP) – the two disgruntled parties who were issued show-cause notices by opposition alliance of Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) – have decided to form a new opposition alliance, and the names of other parties invited to join the alliance also came to light soon. According to informed sources in both the parties, the delegations of the two parties held a detailed discussion in Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), to form a new coalition of like-minded opposition parties

to wage a struggle against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. A delegation of the PPP took the message of former president Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari to the ANP headquarters in Wali Bagh, which was led by Nayyar Hussain Bukhari, Sherry Rehman, Humayun Khan and Faisal Karim Kundi to Wali Bagh, the headquarters of ANP. Mian Iftikhar Hussain, Senator Hidayatullah Khan, Aimal Wali Khan and Sardar Hussain Babak represented the ANP in the talks. During the meeting, important consultations were held regarding the future of the coalition of opposition parties, PDM. “Both the parties have decided to contact Akhtar Mengal’s Balochistan National Party

BILAWAL ORDERS STRONG-WORDED RESPONSE TO SHOW-CAUSE NOTICE (BNP-M) and Aftab Sherpao’s Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) to join the new alliance. All like-minded parties who want to form an opposition alliance will also be invited to join the alliance including Jamat-e-Islami (JI),” sources told Pakistan Today. PPP PREPARES STRONGLYWORDED RESPONSE: Sources said that the PPP has drafted a strongly worded response to the show cause letter of the PDM, which would be discussed in the upcoming CEC meeting on April 11. They said that Bilawal will present the response before the CEC which will decide whether it to be sent to the PDM formally or convey the response verbally through a press conference. Later, while talking to media, the leaders of PPP and ANP, the two

important component parties of the PDM, blamed the ‘dictatorial attitude’ of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz for the disintegration of the opposition alliance. ANP has already announced to quit the PDM, saying the notices were an insult to the party. Briefing reporters after the meeting, Nayyar Hussain Bukhari and Mian Iftikhar Hussain said that the PPP would take the decision of whether or not to quit the PDM at its CEC meeting scheduled later this month. “The split in the PDM began with the issuance of the show-cause notice,” Hussain said, adding, it was an insult to ANP and couldn’t be tolerated. Meanwhile, Bukhari said that the PPP

had proposed Maulana Fazlur Rahman as the PDM head but the JUI-F chief adopted “a step-motherly attitude” towards the PPP. He said that the PPP was ready for the “long march” to Islamabad and wanted to use resignations from the assemblies as the last option. ANP BACKS PML-N CANDIDATE IN NA 249 BY-ELECTION: Responding to a question, Mian Iftikhar Hussain said that the ANP had decided to support the PML-N candidate in the upcoming National Assembly constituency, NA-249 Karachi, by-election. “It was the decision of ANP’s Sindh chapter. Our leaders at the provincial level are empowered to take such decisions,” he concluded.

Pakistan, China vow to safeguard multilateralism CHINA OFFERS FULL SUPPORT TO PAKISTANI BUSINESS COMMUNITY ISLAMABAD INP

ISLAMABAD: A stunning view from D-Chowk in the federal capital. ONLINE

NAB summons Sharif’s close aide, others for sugar scam probe NewS DeSK The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Friday summoned former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s close aide Javed Kiyani and others in connection with the ongoing investigation into the sugar scandal. Kiyani is currently the vice-chairman of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PASMA) and was a co-accused in the Hudaibiya Paper Mills case with former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. A former officer of the Ministry of Industries and Production Khizar Hayat has also been summoned by NAB Rawalpindi on April 14. Meanwhile, Muzammil Pasha, the accountant of the Industries and Production Department has been summoned by the anti-graft body on April 13 in relation to the investigation. PASMA Chairman Sikander Pasha has also been summoned to the corruption watchdog’s office, for the second time, next week. According to the questionnaire, the NAB will inquire from the persons about how the prices of sugar were determined in 2017 and who was responsible for doing so. The bureau has also sought the records of the proposals forwarded from 2017-2019 for the subsidy on sugar as well as the records of the Punjab Food Department. PTI leader Jahangir Tareen has so far not been summoned by NAB Rawalpindi. He is being investigated by the Federal Investigative Agency (FIA) in other cases. According to the NAB, all persons will appear before a joint investigation team (JIT) headed by NAB Rawalpindi Director General (DG) Irfan Mangi on the said dates and questionnaires were also sent to them. The personalities issued call-up notices have been asked to provide proposal records for the subsidy on sugar from 2017 to 2019. It is pertinent to mention here that NAB had acquired relevant records from the Punjab Food Department.

Pakistan and China have agreed to firmly safeguard multilateralism and support the central role of the United Nations (UN) in international affairs. Both countries expressed their support at the third round of China Pakistan Consultations on the United Nations Affairs on Friday. The Pakistani side was led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director-General (DG) Usman Iqbal Jadoon whilst the Chinese side by its Department of International Organisations and Conferences DG Yang Tao. The two sides concurred to strengthen their cooperation at the UN and other multilateral platforms and to support each other on each side’s core and major interests. They mutually decided to work toward the political and peaceful resolution of regional and international hotspot issues, and jointly safeguard peace and stability of the world, especially in Asia. Both countries supported the idea to strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism and peacekeeping in the UN framework by addressing the issue of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They also decided to support UN peacekeeping operations in a bid to make greater contributions to the maintenance of international and regional peace and security. Agreeing to consolidate strategic coordination in the field of human rights, both countries decided to jointly oppose double standards and the politicisation of human rights issues, and work for the promotion and protection of all human rights in a cooperative manner. SUPPORT TO BUSINESS COMMUNITY: Separately, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan, Nong Rong, along with Consul General of China at Karachi Li Bijian and his, team visited the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) on Friday and held a meeting with the office-bearers of the federation. Various subjects pertaining to the economic relations between Pakistan and China particularly in reference to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and ChinaPakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA) came under discussion during the meeting.

Ambassador Rong shared his views with the house regarding the upcoming online business portal of the Chinese government which will be a good opportunity for the Pakistani business community to get easily connected with their Chinese counterparts. He extended his full support not only of his embassy at Islamabad but also at Consul General Office in Karachi to the business community particularly to the FPCCI. The FPCCI president requested the Chinese envoy to emphasise strong and constants mutual efforts to eliminate negative air against CPEC and the bilateral trade. He also suggested that China should focus on investing in the people of Pakistan by giving access to the Chinese market. The FPCCI president also expressed his sincerest gratitude to the government of China for donating Covid-19 vaccines to Pakistan. During the discussion made in the meeting, former president of FPCCI, Mian Anjum Nisar, requested the envoy to extend support to the Pakistani business community in transferring technical knowledge in the field of agriculture. Chairman of Pak-China Business Council, Sheikh Jawaid Ilyas, pointed out the imbalance in the bilateral trade which is heavily in favour of China. He also encouraged the embassy to coordinate with the FPCCI in identifying relocation of Chinese industries in Pakistan especially in the new economic zones that have been identified for Chinese investment under the second phase of CPEC. Jawad also emphasised the need for the creation of the Pak-China Joint Dispute Resolution Committee for smooth and easy resolution of problems that may arise during the bilateral trade. He also appreciated the strong support extended by the Consul General of China in Karachi to the business community in the Sindh and Baluchistan provinces of Pakistan. The meeting was attended by a large number of prominent businessmen and representatives of different trade bodies, including FPCCI Vice President Hanif Lakhany, FPCCI Vice President Chaudhry Saleem Bhullar, FPCCI former president Zakaria Usman, former vice presidents Khurram Saeed, Sh Sultan Rehman and Qurban Ali, and many others.

Ramadan charity helps Pakistan’s poor KARACHI ANAdOLu AgENcy

Despite a surge in coronavirus cases and rising inflation, grocery stores and supermarkets in Karachi, the country’s commercial capital, are overcrowded with customers ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Neatly wrapped packets and boxes of lentils, flour, rice, cooking oil, tea, spices, beverages, and other food items are arranged in shelves at a sprawling supermarket in the city’s eastern district. Citizens are buying more than the usual not only to cope with the extra consumption, but to distribute among the less fortunate, or those who have been unemployed due to an economic slowdown aided by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The downturn has particularly impacted those below poverty line – nearly 25 per cent of Pakistan’s 210 million population. “Ramadan is the perfect time to help others,” Mohammad Younus, a customer, told Anadolu Agency while maneuvering through a crowded corridor with an overstuffed trolley. Yunus is one of the millions of Pakistanis who distribute rations, alms, and clothing to the less fortunate in Ramadan, when devotees abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset. “This time, the poor need and deserve more. Hundreds of thousands of people have lost their jobs over the past year due to Covid-19 as businesses have been hit hard,” he said. “I’ve been distributing rations to 1520 people on the eve of Ramadan for years, but this year I plan to double the figure … we are duty-bound to provide them relief

during the holy month.” There are similar scenes in Judia Bazar, one of the city’s largest and oldest wholesale markets. “We have bought double the rations compared to the previous year due to the rising demand,” Mohammad Yusuf, a businessman who runs a small charity in New Karachi Town, told Anadolu Agency. This has given some hope to traders for a slight improvement in otherwise sluggish business activity. “We expect more sales this time,” Anas Sultan, a grocery wholesaler, told Anadolu Agency, adding that they relaxed credit deadlines for small retailers “as they were in trouble.” ZAKAT: Most Pakistanis prefer to pay their zakat – the obligatory Muslim charity tax – during Ramadan, expecting more rewards from God. Zakat, which is “purifying” one’s

earnings or savings, is one of Islam’s five pillars. Any Muslim who owns a certain amount of money, gold, silver, or other assets is bound to pay 2.5 per cent of his or her excess annual wealth to the needy. In Pakistan it is mandated and collected by the government. Apart from helping the less fortunate, zakat also assists charities run their operations throughout the year. These organizations help stem the economic burden on low-income groups. Al-Khidmat Foundation, which also runs a countrywide chain of charity hospitals, including a modern facility in the southern desert area of Thar, plans to provide rations to 500,000 people across the country during Ramadan. “Our focus is on the remote areas and people who have been affected by Covid19,” Abdul Shakoor, the foundation’s

president, told Anadolu Agency. He shared that 10 per cent of his organization’s annual budget is met through zakat. The foundation is also carrying out several projects, mainly for the provision of clean water in collaboration with Turkey’s state-run aid agency – Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA). “Charity is hardwired in the blood of Pakistanis. Almost every Pakistani, in one way or the other donates something,” Shakoor said. The Saylani Welfare Trust also plans providing 100,000 ration bags to the underprivileged in Karachi during the month, according to Amjad Chamriya, an official who deals with the charity’s ration distribution process. The charity says it will also serve Iftar (sunset meal to break the fast) to around 250,000 people.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

KARACHI

Islam and ConsTITuTIon ProTeCT rIghTs of mInorITIes, says JusTICe Isa SC JUDGE SAYS PROTECTING THE CONSTITUTION IS OBLIGATORY UPON EVERY PAKISTANI

NEwS DESK

UPREME Court (SC) judge Justice Qazi Faez Isa on Friday stressed the need to put an end to discrimination against minorities, adding that both Islam and the Constitution have protected the rights of minorities. “The Constitution prohibits various aspects of discrimination and provides protection. Islam has also taught Muslims collectivism,” the top court judge said while addressing a conference on the ‘Fundamental Rights and Constitution’, which was organised by the Islamabad High Court Bar Association.

On the occasion, Justice Isa underscored that any violation of the Constitution would be categorised as treason. Justice Isa said that that the Constitution – which had been enacted almost 50 years ago on the basis of democratic principles and Islamic laws – provided protection to every citizen regardless of their religion. He added that the Constitution was written while keeping in mind that the ultimate authority is Allah, and that it was the duty of a Muslim to provide justice to minorities. “Quaid-e-Azam said that all are equal in Islam and justice should prevail,” he said. While stating that the Constitution

and Islamic principles go “hand-inhand”, Justice Isa informed that there were many verses of the Holy Quran and Hadith of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) regarding the privacy of the home. “Suspicion should be avoided and you should not engage in jealousy and hatred with one another,” he said. “Protecting the Constitution is obligatory upon every Pakistani, so protect it,” he said, warning that any betrayal of the Constitution would be punished not only in this life, but in the hereafter as well. The apex court judge underscored that the basis of the state Pakistan lies within the Constitution, stating that without it, the foundation of the

federation would break apart. “The Islamic system has arrived, we just need to act on it. The first command of God for Muslims is to acquire knowledge,” said Justice Isa, questioning why the literacy rate in Pakistan was not 100 per cent Justice Isa did not cite any Western examples and instead compared the nation to Sri Lanka, which has a 100 per cent literacy rate. “Learning [is achieved] by only the one who always considers themselves a student,” he said, noting that people had neither bothered to learn about the Constitution nor even read its translation. At this point, he did bring up the West and lamented the fact that the Constitution was not taught in schools, whereas it was taught from a young age in America so that the citizens could know how it came into being.

NEWS

Police recover 16 bodies from mass grave in Kohat KOHAT TLTP

Police have recovered 16 bodies from a mass grave in the mountainous region of BoboKhel of Kohat district, that borders the city of Nowshera, it emerged on Friday. According to police, the bodies have all been lifted from the grave and an investigation into the matter is underway. According to a media report, some labourers had been kidnapped, murdered and their bodies disposed of in the mountains in 2011. Due to the sensitive nature of law and order in this area, there was no movement of people in the area. After a long time, the heirs of the deceased urged the government to recover the bodies, so a rescue operation was carried out on Friday. In March 2012, in a similar discovery, more than 50 bodies had been dug out from mass graves in the Jowakhi mountainous area.

36 bank accounts of Jahangir Tareen, family frozen LAHORE TLTP

LAHORE: Activists protest for the recovery of Shia missing persons. ONLINE

Pakistan urges world to help end rights abuses in occupied Kashmir FO SAYS PAKISTAN AFFIRMS RUSSIA'S ROLE FOR AFGHAN PEACE ISLAMABAD STaff rEPOrT

Pakistan has urged the international community to take cognisance of the unabated human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) and play its role in resolution of the dispute in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Addressing the weekly briefing on Friday, Foreign Office (FO) Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said that the extra-judicial killings by the Indian occupation forces continued unabated in IOK during the past week as well. He said that 10 more Kashmiris were martyred in Pulwama and Shopian districts of IOK; and out of these seven were martyred on Thursday. The spokesperson said that Pakistan has repeatedly called for independent investigations under international scrutiny, into the extra-judicial killings of all innocent Kashmiris. He said, “We have also consistently underscored the

need for unhindered access to the UN human rights bodies, international human rights organizations and media to assess the human rights situation in IOK.” The spokesperson said, “We are also concerned over the continuing military siege, incarceration of Kashmiri leadership, unprecedented restrictions on fundamental freedoms of the Kashmiri people and ongoing efforts to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory.” Talking about the recent visit of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to Islamabad, the spokesperson said that Pakistan and Russia have agreed to intensify efforts to deepen cooperation in a myriad of sectors. “During the delegation-level talks, the two sides agreed on the need to intensify efforts to deepen cooperation in all areas, including economy and trade, energy, counter-terrorism, security and defence, education, and people-to-people exchanges,” said Chaudhri. “The visit provided both sides an opportunity to

review the whole gamut of bilateral relations and share their respective perspectives on key regional and international issues,” Chaudhri added. He said that underscoring the importance of energy sector cooperation, Foreign Minister Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to early commencement of the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline project. In the regional context, the FO spokesperson added, views were exchanged on matters related to South Asia, West Asia, Gulf region, Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific. “The foreign minister underscored Pakistan’s desire for peace in Afghanistan and its continued support for the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process. He also appreciated Russia’s role in the ongoing Afghan peace process.” “The foreign minister noted with appreciation the close cooperation between Pakistan and Russia at the multilateral for a, including the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).” The two ministers, he maintained, also discussed the potential of Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), of which China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project.

‘Pakistan, South Korea need to replicate CPEC model to boost bilateral trade’ ISLAMABAD MIaN abrar

South Korean Ambassador Suh Sangpyo has said that in order to make Korea-Pakistan Economic Corridor (KPEC) a success, Korea would like to have similar incentives like the incentives being offered to investment in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “Korea and Pakistan needs to grow their bilateral

cooperation going on from 1960s. Pakistan can prove to be the favourite destination for Korean tourists and investors as Pakistan has rich Buddhist religious and cultural heritage,” said the ambassador while speaking to a select group of journalists on Friday. “Around 30 per cent people in South Korea are Buddhist and they love to visit the heritage sites in Pakistan. My dream is that PIA [Pakistan International Airlines] starts direct flights from Seoul to Islamabad. If

this happens, Korean tourists and investors would come in droves to Pakistan,” he added. He said that Pakistan is best pilgrimage destination for Korean investors but there are some problems for foreign investors in Pakistan. “Though Pakistan has improved in ease of doing business index lately. But there is a lot to be done to attract foreign investors. Korean investors would come if they are treated in the same manner as the Chinese

Thirty-six bank accounts of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Jahangir Khan Tareen and two members of his family have been frozen over alleged involvement in the sugar scandal. According to sources, a total of 36 accounts in nine different banks were frozen. Of the frozen accounts, the PTI leader owns 14, his son 21 and his wife owns one bank account. The sources said that the accounts frozen on a request of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) have millions of rupees. Meanwhile, Jahangir Tareen’s son Ali Tareen appeared before the investigators of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Friday in connection with the probe into the sugar scandal. Ali Tareen has been asked by FIA to answer the five questions related to the alleged financial fraud worth over Rs4 billion as the intelligence agency was continuing investigating sugar mills in cases against betting mafia. Strict security arrangements were made during the arrival of Ali at the FIA office. Ali departed from the agency’s office after being interrogated by FIA officials for around 1.5 hours. It may be noted here that FIA had directed Jahangir and his son Ali to reappear on April 09 in separate cases. Ali had been summoned for being investigated over allegedly defrauding the shareholders. The agency had directed Ali to bring answers to five questions with him which included the reason for selling JKFSL’s sugar business, the advertisement for the sale, the number of bidders who showed their interest in the process, and the quoted rates. The FIA notice further noted that as per company records JKFSL encountered losses of Rs326 million, however, despite suffering huge losses, it sold out its sugarcane business to JDW on higher profits. Ali was also asked to bring an assessment through which the sugar-related business of the JKFSL was sold out at Rs4.35 billion. “Also bring money trail of how Rs4.35 billion was later utilised,” the FIA notice directed the son of Jahangir. investors are being facilitated,” said the Korean envoy. He said that Buddhists from across the world would like to visit Pakistan as “Buddhism originated from Pakistan”. “Pakistan needs to start infrastructure development for tourists and investors. Power outages are a major hiccup for Korean investors coming to Pakistan and ease of doing business is another challenge,” he said. “In terms of trade, Pakistan has good natural resources and agriculture products. But our bilateral trade is facing major issues. Rice and other agricultural materials could be exported to South Korea and Japan from Pakistan,” he added. The envoy said that Pakistan needs to expand its agricultural products so those could be exported to South Korea. He said that Pakistan needs to expand its exports to other countries as it is a fact that there is a huge market to buy Pakistani products.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

karachi

NEWS

No relIeF For SomeoNe who SpeAkS AgAINSt CouNtry or CoNStItutIoN: lhC LAHORE

TLTP

ENyING provision of any relief to Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) lawmaker Mian Javed Latif, Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Mohammad Qasim Khan observed on Friday that “a person who speaks against the country or the Constitution cannot get relief from me.” The chief justice remarked this while hearing a petition filed by the lawmaker, seeking direction to quash a first information report (FIR) registered against him over allegedly hurling insults at the state, its institutions and their integrity, and for spreading chaos and panic among people by making

statements during a television talk show. As the proceedings commenced, the chief justice came down hard on Latif after his counsel, Syed Farhad Ali Shah, read the FIR. “Have you evaluated yourself as a Pakistani who lives in Pakistan and enjoys all facilities, takes oath in parliament?” CJ Khan remarked. Advocate Shah argued that a specific portion of the interview has been mentioned in the FIR merely to create a wrong impression against his client. While addressing the counsel’s argument, the CJ said the accused can provide the transcript of the interview in question to the investigation officer (IO) if he suspects something was not done correctly in the investigation process. He added that the ac-

cused can also apply on all forums to declare himself innocent. Shah prayed the court to pass direction to the concerned quarters for a fair investigation. “Gentleman, lawyers made dint of efforts in the creation of Pakistan and now a lawyer is representing a man who gave statements against Pakistan”, the CJ said, asserting that there is no relief for someone who speaks out against the country. Following the chief justice’s remarks, counsel to the PML-N leader withdrew the petition, which was later dismissed. Talking to the media, Latif stuck to his stance and claimed he had done nothing wrong. He maintained that such hardline policies give birth to traitors and said that the "state should avoid such policies at all

cost and instead make policies which would create patriots". The PML-N lawmaker added that if drawing attention to loopholes and mistakes is an issue, then he is ready for execution. “Did someone think why people say ‘Zindabad’ (long live) to those whom the 'certificate of traitor' is given and why people do not welcome those who award such certificates,” he questioned. Latif added that it is easier to declare someone a traitor. “Those who occupied the nation and violated the Constitution have been pronouncing a civilian as ‘ghadaar’ [traitor],” he claimed. Elaborating the statements he passed in a talk show, the lawmaker said Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Benazir

Court's decision not rightly reported by media: NICVD

Afridi urges human rights organisations to help Geelani ISLAMABAD

occupational regime. Afridi said that the terms of reference (ToRs) of the advisory boards have been finalised and the boards would now be chaired by conveners of subcommittees of the Kashmir committee. These advisory boards would act as the face of narrative building process on Kashmir, he said. "Each advisory board would have 12 members and their nominations would be notified by the parliament. The new website of Kashmir committee would act as knowledge depository on Kashmir dispute and it would also be translated in seven languages," he added. Afridi said that each advisory board will meet twice in a month and all agenda items and minutes would be shared with the main committee. “Kashmir committee has been working with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to ensure provision of level playing field on the digital space. Advisory boards on information technology, academia

STAFF REPORT

Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Chairman Shehryar Khan Afridi on Friday expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating health of Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani and urged international human rights organisations and International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) to take practical measures to help the ailing Kashmiri leader for medical treatment. Chairing a special meeting, Afridi led a special prayer for the wellbeing and health recovery of Geelani. The meeting unanimously condemned the brutal killing of seven Kashmiri youth in Indian-occupied Kashmir (IOK) and called on the international human rights organisations to take action against those involved in the ongoing genocide in IOK and killing of Kashmiri youth, besides imposing sanctions on individuals and officials of the

KARACHI PR

and culture have been formed to ensure maximum space on digital front, push for new research and content to the narrative on Kashmir and further story telling on Kashmir. Top artistes, thinkers and filmmakers are being added to the advisory board on culture to project Kashmiri culture, which is being destroyed by occupational regime in IOK under its genocide plan,” Afridi said. “Among one of the newest agendas of the Kashmir committee is to work on EU DisinfoLab report to expose the dubious approaches of India to create bias in global opinion by projecting fake news and baseless propaganda against Pakistan through fake media outlets, fake websites and fake NGOs. Kashmir committee has for the first time in the history taken deaf community on board to use gestures to tell story of Kashmir to the world. The committee has been developing its own first ever dedicated website to provide verified data on AJK as well as IOK in six different languages.”

Health experts urge govt Health department acknowledges Kashif to raise tax on tobacco Siddiqui's eﬀorts for awareness on pandemic ISLAMABAD

KARACHI

Leading health experts citing facts from a World Health Organization (WHO) report on rising tobacco consumption in Pakistan has urged the government to raise taxes on tobacco at least by 30 per cent to restraint its consumption among youth in the country. Society for Protection of Rights of Child (SPARC) held a press conference at National Press Club on Friday and urged the government to ensure control on tobacco by raising taxes on tobacco in fiscal year 202122. SPARC Program Manager Khalil Ahmed Dogar shared compelling facts from the WHO report, saying that around 1200 children in Pakistan, between the ages of 6 and 15, start smoking every day due to the affordable rates of cigarettes in the country. He cited that in Pakistan alon, around 166,000 people die due to tobacco related diseases. He added that one of the proven policies to reduce tobacco consumption in the world has been raising taxes and that is why the Pakistan government must raise taxes on tobacco at least by 30 per cent. Pakistan National Heart Association Secretary General Sana Ullah Ghuman said tobacco taxation is a critical element of a comprehensive tobacco control strategy. He added that the tobacco industry is mainly targeting youth, which consist of 64 per cent of population. Chromatic Trust Program Director Sahriq Khan said since young people do not have financial means, they are more sensitive to price increases and are likely to be discouraged from initiating smoking, if prices are raised.

The Karachi East District Health Office has expressed its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Kashif Shamim Siddiqui for his outstanding performance pertaining to awareness and mobilization of the communities in the district on coronavirus pandemic. Kashif Siddiqui has been awarded a ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ by Dr Ashfaque Ahmed, District Health Officer (DHO), Karachi East. The entire interventions of the project have also been highly applauded. Kashif Siddiqui was recently associated with UNICEF-funded project on Covid & Flood Rain Emergency. Shifa Foundation, a non-governmental organization, implemented the project in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sujawal, Dadu and Sukkur. The overall media campaigns designed by Kashif Siddiqui were helpful in preventing and control-

Bhutto had expressed concern before her murder and it was the responsibility of the state to protect her. Latif also said that it is regrettable that the legal heirs of Benazir Bhutto aligned with those whose names she had disclosed. The MNA was earlier quoted as saying in a talk show: "If anything happens to PMLN Vice President Maryam Nawaz, the PMLN will not say Pakistan Khappay (long live Pakistan).” On March 19, police registered a treason case against Latif for allegedly hurling insults at the state and its institutions. The FIR was registered on the complaint of one Jameel Saleem under sections 120, 120B, 153, 153-A, 500 and 505(I) (B) and 506 of PPC.

The court has ordered to extend the bail of Prof Nadeem Qamar, Azra Maqsood and Dawar Hussain while not extending the bail of other officials of NICVD. This does not mean that the court has ordered the arrest of other officials. It is to inform the media that the officials were never ordered to be arrested but all the NICVD officials had taken pre-arrest bail. For those who published the news incorrectly, the page of the court decision is being shared for accuracy. In point number 10, besides three officials, the bail of other officials was cancelled and nowhere order for arrest of these officials was issued.Journalists can contact the hospital before running any related news. They will be provided complete and accurate information. Opponents are making unsuccessful attempts to disrupt the delivery of treatment to patients, but NICVD will continue to provide expensive and modern treatment of heart diseases indiscriminately to patients free of cost coming from all over the country in the same spirit. NICVD has faced NAB from 2016 and remains committed to face any meritorious or judicious inquiry.

FIA staff foil human smuggling attempt at Sialkot airport SIALKOT PR

ling the spread of the deadlier virus. His strategies based on communication, coordination and collaboration played a vital role in the success of the project. Kashif Siddiqui, while sharing his views on his achievement, said "I am well aware that how people are suffering in the situation created since the coronavirus outbreak in

Pakistan. The pandemic must be treated as life-threatening and extraordinary precautions should be taken to control its further spread.” “Although the project has ended but, in my personal capacity, I will continue my efforts in the larger interest of the communities because the third wave has intensified across the country."

An operation was conducted under supervision of Assistant Director Saim Sultan and Inspector Rizwan Naeem to apprehend a group of human smugglers, who prepared forged documents for seven persons and made an attempt to transport them to Turkey via a Qatar Airways flight QR-631. All seven hopeful travellers and one of the human smuggler involved, Qasim resident of Jhelum, were apprehended from the airport. They carried very minutely forged visas and fake protector stickers, and disclosed that they had paid their life's savings to the agent. The network of traffickers has been identified, who will also be apprehended soon by FIA. Cases have been registered against the agents and passengers. This mafia of human traffickers deceives thousands of innocent Pakistani every year by false promises of a job and riches abroad, and take their life's savings only to send them abroad illegally.

Journalists discuss role of media in protection, promotion of human rights KARACHI PR

Media persons had an extensive discussion on issues they face in reporting on human rights at a media consultation organized by European Union (EU) funded Huqooq-ePakistan Project (HeP) in collaboration with the Sindh Human Rights Department. Huqooq e Pakistan is a joint initiative of the European Union and the Ministry of Human Rights with the objective of supporting the continued efforts of the Government of Pakistan for the promotion of human rights. The consultation event organized at Karachi Press

Club attracted good representation from regional, Urdu and English newspapers, channels and social media including a large number of women journalists. They were briefed about the role of media in the promotion and protection of human rights, Pakistan’s national and international commitments on human rights and Solutions Journalism, a new media domain that promotes reporting on solutions rather than highlighting problems only. Participants pointed out capacity issues, prevailing media crisis and priorities of media organizations as major issues that lead to lack of motivation to focus on reporting human rights. They suggested training opportunities, prompt infor-

mation sharing, encouraging beat reporters and engaging with media in creative ways to improve reporting on human rights. Speaking on this occasion, HeP’s Senior Key Expert Human Rights and Communications- Seema Jaffer said that HeP considers media a partner in promoting human rights in the country as it informs, educates, and sensitizes the general public and policymakers, civil society, and those implementing the laws and policies. Seema said that protection of human rights is the basis of all democratic and progressive societies. Internationally, human rights indicators determine the image of a country. “Pakistan is the signatory of seven

core international human rights treaties and two additional protocols. Media plays critical role in implementation and reporting on these international commitments,” she said. The event also featured screening of video and animations developed by HeP to raise awareness on human rights and legal protection provided under the constitution. Details about the recently launched Ministry of Human Rights Human Rights Resource Portal were also shared with the journalists. The participants were encouraged to utilize these resources in their stories. Covid-19 safety measures were strictly observed during the event.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

KARACHI

NEWS

Govt Gears uP to Make south Punjab secretarIat functIonal LaHore

Pakistan in battle to hold mafias accountable, asserts PM Imran continued from page 01 Moreover, he said that the government would collect data of its entire population by June which would help the government pay a direct subsidy to deserving people. “God willing, Pakistan is going to become a welfare state,” he hoped. The prime minister appreciated the Punjab chief minister, cabinet members and particularly LDA Vice Chairman Imran Munir for putting in all efforts to pave the way for the mega-project to uplift the poor. He said that the project’s launch was impossible without the passage of foreclosure law for mortgage finance and thanked the judiciary for resolving the issue that had been pending for years. PM Imran said, in Pakistan, mortgage finance stood at around 0.2 per cent against western countries, where it was above 80 per cent. He added that the passage of the foreclosure law enabled the people without cash to buy or construct their own house. The people would be able to avail themselves the housing finance by paying the instalments from the money they use for house rent. The prime minister stated he had seen the deteriorating system in the country and it required a vision and commitment to change the corrupt system. “But it is doable as we know many countries which have transformed themselves. We will have to change ourselves if Pakistan has to meet the 21st-century challenges,” he remarked. He again appreciated LDA VCMunir for bringing in automation to facilitate the construction sector which was booming in the country evidenced by the record cement sale during the last month. He also appreciated Naya Pakistan Housing Authority for holding sessions with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and commercial banks to bring maximum ease for the construction sector as well as remove hassles from the housing loan process. PM Imran told the gathering that the construction industry supported another 30 allied industries, thus becoming a major sole source to boost the economy. The prime minister also spoke high of Punjab Bank President Zafar Masood for supporting the wealth creation, like any “outstanding” banker and contrary to some typical banks which banked upon government’s deposits. Moreover, PM Imran on Sunday would launch an initiative of mobile kitchens to serve free of charge food to the poor people in their respective areas, it emerged. Addressing the gathering, Punjab Chief Minister Buzdar said that the apartment’s scheme would be no less than any modern society and would be equipped with all amenities, including a huge park, underground electricity lines and a cricket stadium. He added that even after the project’s completion, the LDA would be responsible for maintaining the infrastructure. The chief minister said that the government was on its course towards fulfilment of its commitments with the people. During his one-day visit to Lahore, the prime minister would also chair a meeting to review the measures taken by the Punjab government to control the prices of essential commodities.

DECIDES TO REGULATE CHICKEN, GHEE PRICES IN PUNJAB

sTaFF rePOrT

PPOINTMENTS of secretaries, cabinet meetings, sittings of provincial ministers weekly and other measures were put before Prime Minister Imran Khan as steps are planned to make South Punjab secretariat functional. The prime minister chaired a meeting on South Punjab attended by MNAs and MPAs from the area, where he was briefed in detail on measures needed to make it functional. It was informed that efforts are underway to make it fully functional and a com-

mittee is being formed to address the issues faced by the region and the secretariat. It was briefed that appointments would be made against the existing vacancies at the South Punjab secretariat while cabinet meetings would also be held to make to ensure that it is made functional on an immediate basis. The provincial ministers would also be directed to ensure a weekly sitting at the secretariat. Prime Minister Imran directed to provide all needed facilities to the secretariat.

Meanwhile, it was decided to take action against the officials who changed the status of the South Punjab secretariat. A committee was formed to identify the officials involved in the entire episode. Sources claimed that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi stressed during the meeting for action against the officials who were involved in issuing a notification to change the status of the South Punjab Secretariat. Meanwhile, in a bid to control the soaring inflation, the Punjab govern-

ment has decided to regulate the prices of chicken and ghee in the same manner as the sugar prices are set by the provincial authorities. The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran, who is visiting Lahore to get briefings on the performance of the Punjab authorities in the wake of the Covid-19 situation and inflation. Sources privy to the decision said that the government has decided to regulate the prices of ghee and chicken, in the same manner, it sets sugar prices. The decision was made after the prices of both commodities have witnessed a massive hike.

Two women among 37 promoted to major general rank raWaLpindi sTaFF rePOrT

37 brigadiers including two women officers of Pakistan Army were promoted to the rank of major-general, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Friday. The Promotion Board from Brigadier to Major General was held at General Headquarters (GHQ) with Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa in the chair. A total of 37 brigadiers, including those from Army Medical Corps (AMC), have been promoted to the major general rank. Those promoted include Brigadier Sheharyar

Parvez Butt, Brigadier Omar Maqbool, Brigadier Muhammad Asim Khan, Brigadier Ghulam Muhammad, Brigadier Muhammad Nadeem Ashraf, Brigadier Amer Ashfaq Kayani, Brigadier Muhammad Imtanan Babar, Brigadier Abdul Sami, Brigadier Umar Ahmad Shah, Brigadier Muhammad Shahid Siddeeq, Brigadier Muhammad Farhan Yousaf, Brigadier Muneer Ud Din, Brigadier Muhammad Irfan Khan, Brigadier Noor Wali Khan, Brigadier Kamal Anwar Chaudhry, Brigadier Salman Moin, Brigadier Naseem Anwer, Brigadier Malik Amir Muhammad Khan, Brigadier Adnan Sarwar Malik, Brigadier Mohammad Qaddafi, Brigadier Muham-

mad Naeem Akhtar, Brigadier Muhammad Shahab Aslam, Brigadier Nadeem Yousaf, Brigadier Farrukh Shahzad Rao and Brigadier Khurram Nisar. Those approved from Army Medical Corps (AMC) include Brigadier Iftikhar Ahmed Satti, Brigadier Syed Adil Hussanain, Brigadier Mrs Qamar Un Nisa Choudhry, Brigadier Irfan Ali Mirza, Brigadier Muhammad Rafiq Zafar, Brigadier Muhammad Waseem, Brigadier Muhammad Suhail Amin, Brigadier Naseer Ahmad Samore, Brigadier Mrs Shazia Nisar, Brigadier Eijaz Ghani, Brigadier Arshad Naseem and Brigadier Nadeem Ahmad Rana.

NATION’S RELIABLE SUPPORT

Historic Ramadan Relief Package 2021 launched Islamabad: Under the directive of Prime Minister of Pakistan, Utility Stores Corporation of Pakistan, (USC) launches a historic Ramadan Relief Package 2021 on April 10, 2021 through provisioning of subsidy on 19 essential items including wheat flour, sugar, ghee, rice, cooking oil, pulses, white gram, dates, tetra pack milk, tea, spices, and gram flour. Under the relief package, USC is offering hefty discounts on more than 1500 products as well. In this relief package, wheat flour of 20-kilogram bag is available at Rs. 800; sugar per kilogram is available at Rs. 68; Ghee per kilogram will be available at Rs. 170 whereas subsidy on black tea is Rs. 50 per kilogram; oil will be Rs. 20 per litre; subsidy on pulses is from Rs. 15 to Rs. 30 per kilogram; subsidy on white gram is Rs. 25 per kilogram; subsidy on dates is Rs. 20 per kilogram; subsidy on rice is from Rs. 10-12; subsidy on squashes and syrups ranges from Rs. 20-25; subsidy on milk (UHT) per litre is Rs. 20 and subsidy on spices is 10 percent. The relief package will equally be implemented nationwide on over 4,800 utility stores. In line with the directive and vision of Prime Minister of Pakistan, the amount of subsidy on 19 essential items has been increased this year, as compared to previous years to provide maximum relief to the marginalised people of Pakistan. In order to facilitate people of Pakistan and to provide essential commodities at their doorsteps, USC will increase number of Mobile Utility Stores under the re-

lief package. Since its inception, USC is serving the nation with an obligation of averting food shortage during thick and thin. Over the years, USC has proved itself to be a reliable support to the nation as it is successfully transferring Government’s subsidy on essential food items, deterring hoarding, black marketing and providing critical market intelligence to assist government in framing economic policies. The role of USC specifically becomes critical during the pandemics and disasters as it has the largest retail network nationwide. Since the outbreak of Covid-19, as per its precedence of averting food shortage, all 4,881 retail outlets of USC remained open by strictly complying Standard Operating Procedures of Covid-19 to maintain continued supply of food items at prices lower than the open market. The public is urged to take precautionary measures against the epidemic while shopping from the utility stores and co-operate with the sales staff in this regard. Moreover, USC ensures ample supply of all necessary items at its stores nationwide, so bulk buying and panic buying are not advised. It is worth mentioning here that from January 2020, USC has successfully been providing continuous subsidy on five staple food items (sugar, wheat flour, ghee, rice and pulses), ensuring food security in Pakistan despite spread of Covid-19. During the year, USC achieved success at various fronts and acquired a

turnover of around Rs. 100 billion, serving 45.8 million households during the year 2020. During the year, USC deposited Rs. 8.59 billion tax to the national exchequer and transformed itself into almost a self-reliant, self-sufficient and self-sustained organization. Also, USC is the first in Pakistan to introduce poly/ shopping bags by using Oxo-biodegradable Additives for green environment as per Pakistan Environment Protection Agency rules for the betterment of people of Pakistan and has launched 64 products under ‘Own Brand’ umbrella. The products are of high quality and are up to the benchmark of Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority. Sequel to Prime Minister of Pakistan’s vision of Digital Pakistan, USC will have a comprehensive technology upgrade to ensure fast, accountable and hassle free customer services using sophisticated technologies and automated processes till fiscal year 2021. USC has successfully established an Information Technology infrastructure by developing a modern data centre. The data centre has the capacity to meet future infrastructure requirements. Other initiatives include deployment of Online Stores Information System by geo-tagging all stores throughout the country. USC has also implemented a Demand-based Online Purchase Ordering System integrated with Finance Payable System. The automation will enable USC to start targeted subsidy for the poor segment of the society with the surety that subsidy is dispersed to the right individuals. Press release

US intel report warns miscalculations may lead to Indo-Pak war continued from page 01 Last month, India’s and Pakistan’s water commissions had met after two years wherein Pakistan had reiterated its objections to India’s Pakal Dul, Lower Kulnai, Durbuk Shyok and Nimu Chilling projects on the Chenab River. While citing the circumstances that had led to the separation of West and East Pakistan, the report warned that future events could also prompt a regional crisis with enormous humanitarian, political, and security implications to which external powers probably would try to respond. In this regard, it noted that extreme weather events such as the 1970 cyclone in the Bay of Bengal contributed to state failure in then-East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh the next year. The report outlined that one of the reasons behind the hostility between the countries being at its highest in years may be due to the firm popular support for nationalist leaders, which have strengthened the power and yoke of both leaders. It warned that this can lead to worsening – or at least

continued – threats. Intelligence analysts from the US have predicted that there will be a sharpening in the polarisation within democratic politics in the South Asain region, stressing that even those leaders elected through free and fair processes are likely to “push majoritarian agendas that widen factional divides — potentially weakening political stability in societies already split along sectarian and ethnic lines”. “This political polarisation is rooted in strongly felt nationalist narratives that have become prominent in recent years and met little effective resistance from opposition parties or the courts,” they warn. The report therein stated that the rise of such schism will likely result in great abuses faced by minorities, citing the example of the Muslim communities within India and Sri Lanka. The report also noted the role of IT in disseminating information and shaping the narratives within the countries, underscoring its role in fuelling authoritarian tendencies and influencing the population. It points out that in 2019, India “led the

world in Internet shutdowns by a wide margin” — with several months-long crackdowns to suppress protests, including in occupied Kashmir. Pakistan has deployed Huawei’s Safe Cities technology, raising public fears of increased surveillance. Highlighting the outcomes of this socalled balancing approach and its effects on regional dynamics, the report pointed out that as New Delhi probably will look for ways to mitigate Chinese influence, other South Asian countries, such as Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, will probably judge their countries “can more easily deflect New Delhi’s demands or block its regional leadership aspirations by maintaining ties with Beijing”. In an example of New Dehli’s mitigation efforts, the report adds that, given China’s expanding foothold in the Indian Ocean, India almost certainly will continue to encourage Japan to offer economic investment and some military cooperation to other South Asian countries in an attempt to have them align more closely with New Delhi and Tokyo. In another example of the balancing approach, most South Asian leaders will

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continue to cultivate and publicly tout their relationships with Washington, as the United States is the biggest export market for Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the report predicts. It maintained this perspective in spite of the countries’ growing interest in China. The report projects that economic growth in South Asia will remain slow during the next five years and will be insufficient to employ the region’s expanding workforce, and in this regard, American intelligence analysts have predicted an increased risk to traditions of democratic and independent governance in several countries in South Asia. It is likely that many countries will hedge their bets and balance their relations with multiple external powers, including China, Russia, Japan, and the US. Ergo, for the next five years, the report argues that South Asia will have to manage the challenges that internal security problems, the risk of inter-state war, and the effects of climate change and pollution growth. Before the Covid-19 outbreak, unemployment in India had reached a 40-year

high until the gross domestic product (GDP) growth slowed markedly in the latter half of 2019, and India’s strict lockdown from March to May 2020 temporarily drove unemployment up to 23 per cent. “No government in the region is prepared to undertake economic reforms on the scale required to generate robust growth,” the report states, outlining the reasons behind investor uncertainty, including India’s outdated legal systems, severe pollution, water shortages, and highly bureaucratic regulatory environments. It notes that almost all the economies in the region remain focused on agriculture, with the bulk of their workforces dependent on farming. Most countries’ agricultural sectors are underproductive in relation to the large share of government funds and natural resources they consume. According to the report, this disparity is driven by a variety of factors, including growing water scarcity, environmental damage and climate change effects, and government failure to reform agricultural subsidies that benefit rural constituents at the expense of growing urban populations.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

06 COMMENT

The importance of Russia and Pakistan in the Afghan conflict

Imran Khan in a quandary Implementing an unpopular deal

RIME MINISTER Imran Khan was keen to get the IMF’s modified extended fund facility (EFF). The approval by the Fund was preceded by some tough decisions taken by the PTI government, including a steep rise in electricity bills, accepting the principle of atomicity in power tariff rise, imposition of Rs140 billion taxes and an agreement to grant unprecedented autonomy to the State Bank of Pakistan. The PM was regularly kept informed about the conditionalities that were being imposed by the IMF, that were officially announced by the Fund on Thursday. There are signals now that Mr Khan intends to renegotiate the terms of the agreement. The agreement was brokered at a time when PTI lawmakers had their eyes fixed on the next elections rather than soon after winning the elections as was done by the PML(N) in 2013. The PTI leaders are keen to have something big to show as their government’s performance. Even the PM has directed his spokespersons to concentrate on highlighting their administration’s achievements. The agreement with IMF however conveys a highly negative message to the electorate. a whopping Rs 1.27 trillion hike in taxes committed with IMF can only be realized by increasing the rates of income and sales taxes, withdrawing exemptions, raising electricity rates that would put an additional burden of Rs 884 billion on the consumers, and increasing the petroleum levy to yield about Rs 510 billion instead of budgeted target of Rs 450 bllion. The government will also have to slap new taxes of around Rs600 billion in June. Rss500bn will be collected through raised GST. There would be no tax exemption or tax amnesty in future. Quite disquieting announcements for the man in the street, the trading community and the potential investors! The measures would no doubt help contain a highly unsustainable public debt at current levels but would have an adverse impact on the common man’s livelihood while a constricted growth will add to the number of the unemployed. The PM is in a quandary. If he goes ahead with implementing the IMF’s programme, his electoral fortune would be under serious threat while the benefits accruing from stabilizing the economy will be reaped by the next government.

New opportunities now the Cold War is over

Raja FuRqan ahmed

USSIaN Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov wrapped up his two-day visit to Pakistan, the first Russian foreign minister who visited Islamabad after almost a decade. The visit was quite successful, specifically in terms of bilateral relations. Lavrov met with the top leadership of Pakistan which includes Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as Chief of army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa. He was leading a 13-member delegation that also included Russian special envoy for afghanistan Zamir Kabulov, Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova and several other senior officials, during his press talk, he also touched on economic projects such as the North-South gas pipeline, the energy deficit, the growth of bilateral trade, cooperation for use of technology for medicine and industry, and boosting cooperation in di-

Vaccines for all

verse areas, including defence and counterterrorism. The body language of the Russian Foreign Minister showed that it was time to start a new era in the relationship. Lavrov also expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in afghanistan. Here it is to be mentioned that afghanistan has played a key role in the Pak-Russian relations and Kabul is also one of the reasons due to which both states could not develop close ties. The ties were strained during the cold war and later on the tensions increased when the USSR invaded afghanistan. Pakistan was the key ally of the Western bloc and for making it happy Islamabad got involved in afghanistan. There is no doubt that the USa, Pakistan and Saudi arabia created the mujahedeen, fired them with religious sentiment, armed them, paid them and sent them against the USSR in afghanistan. The allies never thought how this militia would divert to a productive life after the Jihad was won. This mistake leads to the conflict which is still going on. The afghan conflict has not been resolved yet and it gives another opportunity for Pakistan and Russia to re-boost new relations as both are concerned about the afghan issue and both states are also on the same page and demanding that the afghan issue can only be solved through political means. Previously, Russia worried about Pakistan’s close alliances with the West, which have been established since the early Cold War years, and it is now observing the nature of Pakistan’s deepening strategic relations with China. Similarly, Pakistan is concerned about Russia’s strategic relations with India. Currently, Pakistan is more inclined towards China as it committed to work together in the economic as well as development sectors. China has strengthened their relations through bilateral trade, military agreements and supporting each other on key issues. Meanwhile, the CPEC corridor has come up, which is the economical game-changer for Pakistan. Moscow is also looking to take part. Russia is also finding new opportunities in the

South asian Region as the USa has made an agreement with the Taliban to withdraw its troops from afghanistan before May 1. once the USa leaves, the opportunities for other states to invest in afghanistan will increase. Moscow is playing its key role, as last month it hosted a meeting of the extended “Troika” which focused on making progress in the intra-afghan process to reach a negotiated settlement and a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. Moscow invited the prominent afghan political figures and representatives of the Taliban movement, as well as other stakeholders such as the USa, China, Pakistan, Qatar and Turkey as guests of honour. The conference was very successful and the afghan government and the Taliban agreed to accelerate the peace process, after the talks in Qatar’s doha hit a deadlock. apparently, India was not invited to the conference which was quite shocking because Russia and India have great relations, which can be seen in their military cooperation agreements, but it also means that India is not considered as the stakeholder in the afghan conflict. Pakistan also appreciated this decision of not inviting India as Pakistan believes that India’s role in the peace process is that of a spoiler. on the other hand, a 10-day long afghanistan peace conference will begin in the Turkish city of Istanbul on april 16. The USa proposed the conference to bring together Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and the USa, to discuss a unified approach to support peace in afghanistan. But this conference is more inclined towards decreasing the role of Russia and China in the afghan peace process as the USa doesn’t accept that rival should take the lead. Russo–Pakistan relations have grown under the shadow of dramatic shifts in geopolitics. The policy shifted from the USa to China, which also paved the way for new investment and development. Both Pakistan and Russia can play an important role in the afghan conflict and use the afghan strategic location for economic development. The writer can be reached at furqanraja1122@gmail.com and tweets @furqanraja1122.

Is the government serious?

Time and Tide

HE announcement, made by Planning Minister asad Umar after the NCoC meeting on Thursday, that all age groups would be eligible for covid-19 vaccines after Eidul Fitr, would be welcome were it not for the sneaking suspicion that it did not have vaccines behind it. The purpose of the announcement would be to show that the government was doing something about an inexorable spread of a third wave that seemed to be the worst of all. also, it would make a gesture towards the criticism that it has been drawing for its poor performance on the vaccine rollout, which has seen it having by far the lowest proportion of vaccinated people in the entire region. among other consequences, this has led to the UK imposing arrival restrictions on those arriving from Pakistan. Perhaps the main reason for this poor performance is the government’s inability to obtain enough vaccine doses. The government has now got a month in which to prepare for the inevitable increase in vaccine demand now that it has made this announcement. However, with it being estimated that the present pace of vaccination will result in the meeting of targets only in 2024, it seems that the country is heading towards the sort of defective performance that has marred its approach to polio eradication, which has not yet happened. another problem that the government seems to suffer is its reluctance to impose the sort of isolation measures that a lockdown represents. The Prime Minister has once again ruled it out, thus meaning that even the vigorous vaccination planned after Eid will not have the desired effect. Social distancing and vaccinations must go together, and are not substitutes for each other. The government should realise that half-hearted measures are actually worse than no measures, for while neither yields the desired results, half-measures cost money. Therefore, it should not focus on appearing to be busy, but should actually do something. It must make sure that it imposes the social distancing needed; otherwise it will find that its vaccination programme, inadequate as it might be, will go to waste.

Greatness demands sacrifice

askaRi Raza malik

‘T

oday’ is relevant only in the context of yesterday and tomorrow. For the wise, yesterday illuminates the path for tomorrow. The majority lives for today. History has no space for them. The same is true of the leaders. Those who cannot rise above the present get lost in the unknown past. our political behaviour despite all the afflictions of yesterdays has defied growth and maturity. “The poor player that struts and frets his hour on the stage and then is heard no more’, aptly describes the political heroes of today who while reveling in their empty rhetoric forget the demagogues of the 1970s and their unenviable end. ‘The wise speak when they have something to say while the foolish speak because they have to say something’. It is a cause or higher purpose that lifts the vision and renders the narrative more focused and consistent. Without a cause the garrulous chatter nonstop and over-indulge in polemics. Recklessness, unscrupulousness and shamelessness tarnish both the speech and the character. It pains to hear a novice venture comments in the fields of knowledge where

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the professionals would tread only with extreme caution. Blatant lies, fake claims, unfulfilled promises and the ‘SELF’ dominate the political landscape. Illgotten wealth is lavishly floated to hoodwink the system. Today is all that matters. The yesterdays and tomorrows have no place in our reckoning. Ghulam Muhammad, a brilliant manipulator, could rule the roost only because a compliant judiciary and a bunch of diffident politicians without a common national agenda were more than willing to play a stooge in the hands of a willy autocrat. Hence onwards the myopic, greedy, self-centered and squabbling politicians gladly played the musical chairs orchestrated by the dictators, civil and military. The people never figured in the matrix. They came into play only during elections, to be coerced into voting for their boastful ‘Representatives’ and to be forgotten once again. ayub, Zia and Musharraf were all fully supported by the politicians they respected little. The politicians in turn made hay, leaving the entire blame to be borne by the dictators. If ayub had put Pakistan on the road to progress, ‘as the model of a developing country’, in his truly ‘golden decade’, his unparalleled achievements took no time to come to naught in the glorious democratic era that followed. democracy was gradually assuming new and fatal connotations. It was to become an occupation of unlimited profit. The institutions that could be a hinderance in accumulating wealth had to be fully enslaved in the name of civil supremacy. The Supreme Court was attacked, the military chiefs changed at will, accountability turned into a mere farce and elections were rigged, to grab total power and establish dictatorial control. George Washington was the first president of the United States. He was a general who had won his nation its war of independence. He was a hero, considered the best president ever. Slavery was still in fashion when he freed all his slaves laying the foundations of the freedom movement that followed. People loved him. They wanted him to take the third term of presidency. He refused. He did not want to start with a wrong precedent. No one else after him ever tried to take the third term except Roosevelt, who first dealt with the depression, and then World War II. The other glaring examples from recent history were President Charles de Gaulle and Nelson Man-

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dela who had displayed absolute nonchalance towards power. Mandela refused even a second term and gave away power voluntarily to dedicate his life to poverty alleviation and social justice. once branded a terrorist he was awarded a Nobel Prize for Peace, acclaimed as great by friends and foes alike. They were great leaders who have left everlasting legacies. They deserve the reverence of their people. They were able to raise themselves above the mundane with their vision reaching for the stars. a cause is the most powerful and enduring motivator for a leader. In pursuit of the cause all the temptations that dazzle the ordinary, power, wealth, women and fame lose their meanings. a cause demands selflessness, absolute dedication and sacrifice. Jinnah gave all his wealth and property to Pakistan. Liaqat ali Khan did not build a house for himself as there were millions of other homeless immigrants. He lived poor while he was a Nawab, a noble by descent. That is why one is known as Quaid-e-azam and the other as Shaheed-e-Milat. ayub allowed himself to be overpowered by his greed. He lost an otherwise well-earned place in history. Vested interest eats away the virtues. Fleeting good fortunes apart it eventually meets infamous, ignoble and sometimes a violent end. It has no future. That is why most of the leaders end up as non-entities. Lust for power bifurcated Pakistan. The same killed the Bhuttos. Greed for money has disgraced many. a cause or purpose is often in conflict with the status quo. If the propounder of a cause succeeds, he becomes a Mandela for his nation. If he died fighting, he is Martin Luther King jr. The martyrs of a cause never die. Their failure becomes their triumph as it continues forever to torment the oppressor and his coming generations. The parliamentary democracy of the Westminster type has hugely benefited an inept political elite. Still the beneficiaries of democracy continue to cheat it by seeking undemocratic solutions to political problems. This approach has invited disasters before. It is putting democracy at risk once again. The gladiators of the political arena with more than one Mark anthony need to pause and reflect for a while. Honest introspection might unfold better options. The political leadership must put behind the present hysterics, follow the norms of sanity and allow democracy to function at all and any cost. Unambiguous egocentricity alienates friends and escalates antagonism. This is the hour to put our act together as time and tide wait for no one. The writer retired from the Pakistan Army as a major general

Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

COMMENT 07 Editor’s mail Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan. E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Well-deserved win oUR cricket team won the one-day series with South african team at their home ground by winning the first and the third matches. all games were bitterly fought with ups and downs that were not for the faint-hearted. Riding on the fabulous innings by Babar azam, we won the first game. The second match was a close contest that South africa won, but our team put up a great fight. Led by the great innings of Fakhar Zaman (193 runs), we almost turned the tables on South africa. although we lost the game, it was a treat to watch our team putting up a fight. The third match was also a treat to watch. Both Fakhar and Babar exhibited great batting with Fakhar scoring the century and Babar almost making it. The team played well with energy, which was great to see. South african batsmen put up a great fight, but our team prevailed to win the match to take the series and the trophy. While watching these games, the words of the great cricket commentator late Iftikhar ahmed reverberated in my ears that “Cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties.” Let us hope that our team keeps the mojo and remains consistent in the future. I hope and pray that our days of glory in cricket will soon be back. Congratulations team Pakistan and keep up the good work. Raja Shafaatullah ISlamabad

Remembering Aziz Jafrani

Kashmir issue key to peace in region Overlooking the Kashmir issue is a mistake

muhammad zahid RiFat

aKISTaN continues to pursue a foreign policy of peaceful co-existence with all countries, particularly its neighbours, and resolving all disputes in a meaningful, purposeful, objective, cordial atmosphere. Pakistan and India are close neighbours, nuclear powers and have a number of unresolved disputes and issues topped by the lingering and burning Kashmir issue. Pakistan enjoys cordial and friendly relations with all other countries of the region. It is pertinent to mention here that India is not only illegally occupying Jammu and Kashmir for more than seven decades, denying the Kashmiris their fundamental right of self-determination, persistently resorting to brutalities and atrocities through its security forces on the residents who are living in the longest lockdown and curfew since 5 august 2019 and committing gross human rights violations while the international community just occasionally condemns tragic happenings in the occupied territory, and the UN Security Council also is helpless in enforcing its own resolutions for a free, fair plebiscite to let the Kashmiris decide their future themselves. The political leadership and military of Pakistan and people have all along been supporting the Kashmiris’ indigenous, just and unarmed struggle for the fundamental right of self-determination, extending all political, diplomatic and moral support to Kashmiris reiterating the same on all occasions, besides raising the Kashmir issue at all international forums including the UN General assembly, calling for implementation of Security Council resolutions, restoring the pre-5 august status of the occupied Jammu and Kashmir territory and lifting the world’s most prolonged lockdown there. The People of Pakistan celebrated the 81st anniversary of the passage of the Pakistan Resolution on March 23 in the usual enthusiastic manner while strictly adhering to SoPs owing to the persistent covid-19 pandemic in the country. The Kashmir issue had figured on this historic occasion both directly and indirectly. addressing the Pakistan day military parade in Islamabad, President dr arif alvi de-

scribed the happenings in occupied Jammu and Kashmir as a human tragedy and reiterated that the whole Pakistani nation was with the Kashmiri people and would continue to stand with them and also urged the international community to take notice of the worsening human rights situation in India’s illegally occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir and play its role in ensuring regional peace. In connection with the Pakistan day celebrations, an unusual and unexpected letter couched in diplomatic language was received from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed to Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is regarded by the Kashmiris the world over as the ambassador of Kashmir . There was no mention of the Kashmir and other disputes which are blocking the normalization of relations between the two neighbouring countries because of the Indian leadership’s continued hostile attitude towards Pakistan. The Indian PM keppt himself to saying that India desires to have cordial relations with the Pakistani people while extending greetings to them on the occasion of Pakistan day, adding “as a neighbouring country India desires cordial relations with the people of Pakistan , for this an environment of trust, devoid of terror and hostility is imperative”. The Indian PM in saying so had only reiterated his country’s oft-stated stance making no mention of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and what was going on there on the Kashmiris at the hands of the large Indian security forces there. Prime Minister Imran Khan, while responding to his Indian counterpart’s letter, quite categorically stated that peace in South asia hinged on a Kashmir settlement, that the Pakistani people also desire peaceful, cooperative relations with all neighbours including India, and that Pakistan was convinced durable peace and stability in South asia was contingent upon resolving all outstanding issues between India and Pakistan including Jammu in particular the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, and that the creation of an enabling environment was imperative for a constructive and result-oriented dialogue. While the Indian PM had used diplomatic language , with the intentions better known to him, Pakistani Prime Minister had responded quite aptly reiterating Pakistan’s principled stand regarding the Kashmir dispute which continues unresolved for more than seven decades and thus putting the peace in the region at stake due to New delhi’s persisting hostilities and hegemonic policies not only towards Pakistan,

but also other countries of the region. The contents of the letters written by the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan to each other reveal a marked difference. The language which the Indian PM had used accusatory in nature to say the least while that of the Pakistani PM had a historical perspective. India has all along been trying to dub the Kashmiris’ just and indigenous struggle for freedom from India’s occupation as “terrorism” to hoodwink the international community in a crude and brutal attempt to cover up its gross human rights violations in the occupied territory as more and more countries are gradually becoming sensitive to the tragic happenings there. It is also a bitter historical fact that Pakistan has itself been victim of terrorism for decades together and persistently demonstrated its resolve and capability to address the challenge so poised in a non-discriminatory and comprehensive manner and has taken verifiable measures against all manifestations of terrorism, extremism and militancy . In doing so, Pakistan’s armed forces, security institutions and law enforcement agencies have and continue to offer sacrifices of the sons and daughters of soil while chasing out the hostile elements from the sacred soil of Pakistan. Suffice to say that there can be no normalization of relations between the two neighbouring nuclear powers in any manner till the Kashmir dispute is resolved in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions, and the aspirations of the Kashmiris who are struggling for freedom from Indian shackles of slavery and continue to look towards international community for doing more than merely condemnation of gross human rights violations in occupied territory. Pakistan has repeatedly told the world at large that Kashmir is a nuclear flashpoint and the peace and stability in the region continue to be at stake till the lingering and burning issue is resolved peacefully and UN Security Council resolutions are implemented in letter and spirit. Kashmir is a lifeline of Pakistan, the hearts of the people of Pakistan and of the Kashmiris beat together , the political and military leadership and the people of Pakistan continue to extend their unstinted moral, diplomatic and political support to their Kashmiri brethren. Kashmitis are bound to get their freedom soon and Kashmir is going to become Pakistan, God willing.

There can be no normalization of relations between the two neighbouring nuclear powers in any manner till the Kashmir dispute is resolved in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions, and the aspirations of the Kashmiris who are struggling for freedom from Indian shackles of slavery

The writer can zahidriffat@gmail.com

reached

THE 12th death anniversary of acclaimed Historian, academia, writer, and poet aziz Jafrani being observed today. He is considered among those historians of Sindh who compiled and wrote a consolidated history of Sindh,s Larr region. aziz Jafrani was born on 18 January 1944 in Chuhar Jamali, a small town of district. Sujawal to a well-known figure of the area Mohammad Juman Jafrani, a teacher by profession. He inherited a thirst for knowledge from his father and to quench that thirst he started reading books at an early age, his first story was published in a weekly magazine for children Baran g Bari in 1955. as a teacher, he graced hundreds of thousands of students with the jewel of knowledge. The late historian was among the founding members of Sindhi adabi Sangat who pioneered literary activities in district Thatta and Sujawal by organizing different events and literary gatherings. Besides that, he opened Mohammad Bin Qasim library- the first-ever library of Sujawal town in the year 1967. He was the man of lofty principles and during his stainless career as an academician that spanned over three decades, he never compromised over the quality of education and always defied the trend of “cheating” in Sindh. He spearheaded the struggle for creating awareness about the importance of education and literacy in district Thatta and Sujawal. He vividly advocated girl’s education when educating girls was considered a cardinal sin. His first book that contained his research about SujawalSujawal Jee Tareekh The History of Sujawal was published in 1986 followed by-”Tareekh Jati Ja Nawan Wark” and “Sujawal Ji Siyasi Samaji Tarekh’’. He also wrote a Novel Masoom-Innocent and few books about the history of Islam and Islamic culture. However, a book titled- MakalatE- aziz comprising selected verses of his poetry was also published by Sindh Culture department after his death. apart from it, he translated the dr. Willies Book- The History of Islamic People in Sindhi His several articles about the Culture and History of Sindh were published in different Sindhi, Urdu, and English dailies of the country. While talking to this correspondent his Son Zubair Jafar ali Said that; Following restrictions imposed by the Sindh government the scheduled event to Mark the death anniversary of his father had been called off. The Eminent literary figure of the Larr region passed away on 9th april 2009. KamRan KhamISo Khowaja Sujawal

Save lives in Brazil RIGHT now there is an urgent call to the WHo and the international community to look into the serious situation in Brazil created by the bloody corona pandemic. There have been daily reports of corona death toll in large numbers from Brazil. In fact, I have been observing so many such news reports through various media channels like newspapers, radio and TV. Though countries have been fighting rigorously with the pandemic, the difficulties facing this beautiful country of Brazil are pretty much different and rather bizarre. according to the news sources, the factors like mishandling of the pandemic, lack of government support, failed government machinery and above all vaccine shortage have been unfortunately playing havoc with the precious lives of the people in Brazil. Brazil has long been one of the beautiful countries in the world, having been home to extensive greenery areas like the amazon rainforest and beautiful indigenous culture. That said, still, the people in my native areas like Korkai, Tuticorin, Tiruchendur, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu have been in the habit of openly sharing others’ pain caused by death and disease. There seems to be stark vaccine imbalance given the tense situation in areas like Brazil. No doubt the mask mandate must go on for sometime now. People should understand this in the first place. as for the Brazil case, there are lessons to others too. Maybe, the vaccine delays and uncontrolled concentration of Covid in a particular place like Brazil can allow the new pandemic threats to spill over to other areas worldwide. Hence, such worsthit countries must be first identified again. Those countries should be provided with proper vaccine supply accordingly. Factually speaking, only such priority-based corona treatment methods with due urgency are going to kill the bloody virus permanently besides saving countries like Brazil. P SEnthIl SaRavana duRaI mumbaI

Take Care THE third wave of Covid-19 is the result of the careless attitude of people. Many people take the dangerous wave as a joke and are not taking it seriously. almost every person is ignoring SoPs. I request the government to introduce strict punishment for those who do not follow SoPs. The third wave of Covid-19 is the result of the careless attitude of people. Many people take the dangerous wave as a joke and are not taking it seriously. almost every person is ignoring SoPs. I request the government to introduce strict punishment for those who do not follow SoPs. hammal naSEER nIgwaRI balnIgwaR

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

08 WORLD VIEW

it’s time to tear uP the northern ireland Protocol

spiked

BREnDAn O’nEILL

HE most shocking thing about the violence that has swept parts of Northern Ireland every night since Good Friday is that people are shocked by it. You thought you could turn Northern Ireland into the battleground over Brexit, into a prize to be tussled over by the United Kingdom and the EU oligarchy, and that it wouldn’t have destabilising consequences? That in itself is testament to the blindness and arrogance of the UK political class and the global elites. As they now look with horror upon Northern Ireland’s burning buses and flying petrol bombs, let’s remind them that it was their weaponisation of Ireland in the Brexit battle, their cynical dilution of Brexit by keeping Northern Ireland tied to the EU, that helped to stoke this instability. The disingenuousness of Remainers over the violence in Northern Ireland is astonishing. As violence has flared among loyalist youths in West Belfast, as well as in Carrickfergus and Derry, Britain’s Remainer elites have pointed the long finger of blame at their usual suspect: Brexit. That fiery bus, those 55 injured police officers, that assaulted press photographer – it’s all down to Brexit, they say. ‘We told you this would happen.’ This is the height of political dishonesty. It isn’t Brexit that stoked instability in Northern Ireland – it’s the com-

THE INSTABILITY IN NORTHERN IRELAND ISN’T DOWN TO BREXIT – IT’S DOWN TO OUR FAILURE TO IMPLEMENT BREXIT PROPERLY promises over Brexit. It was the EU’s and the Remainer elites’ insistence on an ‘Irish solution’ that essentially involved annexing Northern Ireland from the UK on matters of customs and goods that provoked anger and concern among many people in Northern Ireland. It was the failure to implement Brexit properly, not Brexit itself, that pushed Northern Ireland into a new and unpredictable era. The proposition of Brexit was simple: in an all-kingdom vote it was decided that the UK would no longer be a member of the European Union. Yes, this would have raised certain issues for the Republic of Ireland, which would now have a land border with a non-EU member and no land borders with the EU itself. But that was a practical challenge that could have been straightforwardly resolved. Instead what happened is that the powerful anti-Brexit lobby – including Brussels oligarchs, the Irish government and much of the political elite in the UK – weaponised Irish concerns and used them both to demonise Brexit and to insist that it could not be fully implemented. Northern Ireland would need a different arrangement, they said; it would need to be siphoned off from the rest of the kingdom. They got their way. Despite promising never to draw a border down the Irish Sea, Boris Johnson did just that, by agreeing to a Northern Ireland Protocol which ensures that the Six Counties are still beholden to the EU’s ‘level playing

field’ provisions and its rules on customs issues, and even to a certain amount of jurisdiction on the part of the European Court of Justice. The Irish government and the EU, and their supporters among the anti-Brexit elites in the UK, successfully secured a half-Brexit, a phoney Brexit, for Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland’s current status as a nation in limbo – not entirely part of the UK anymore and not entirely part of the EU, either – is on them. It is them, not those of us who voted for Brexit, who helped to create this new and strange and unstable Northern Ireland. The idea that you could constitutionally rearrange Northern Ireland over the heads of its people and that there wouldn’t be consequences is surreal. The idea that you can ignore the British electorate’s cry for the UK to remove itself from the EU and decide instead to keep a part of the UK tied to the EU, and that this wouldn’t have some form of political or social blowback, is naive in the extreme. Apart from anything else this is Northern Ireland we’re talking about. It isn’t Kent. It isn’t Cumbria. It’s a part of the world in which sovereignty is a live, difficult and contested question. Everyone who thought Northern Ireland could be quietly cut off from the UK and that everything would be fine – whether that’s Boris or Brussels, the Taoiseach or the pro-Remain commentariat – has behaved with staggering naivety. Will the current violence wake them up?

Biden is right to resume aid to the Palestinians

Brendan O’Neill is editor of spiked and host of the spiked podcast, The Brendan O’Neill Show.

Reining in Facebook and Google

The aid should certainly be administered carefully, and Congress must exercise legitimate oversight L A Times GLobALisT

EDITORIAL BOARD

The Biden administration’s decision to provide hundreds of millions dollars in aid to the Palestinian people is doubly welcome. It offers relief to a population plagued by poverty and lack of opportunity, and it heralds a reversal of the Trump administration’s unbalanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said the aid would consist of $75 million in economic and development assistance in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, $10 million for peace-building efforts through the U.S. Agency for International Development and $150 million in humanitarian assistance for the U.N. Relief and Works Agency that serves Palestinian refugees and their descendants throughout the Middle East. The Trump administration stopped contributions to the agency after Trump tweeted: “We pay the Palestinians HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS a year and get no appreciation or respect.” And for years previously there has been bipartisan criticism of the relief organization, particularly relating to textbooks in its schools that deny the existence of Israel. But such concerns never justified cutting off humanitarian aid to desperate people. Nor did Trump’s withdrawal of support improve the prospects for peace between Israel and the Palestinians. By contrast, as Blinken noted, aid to the Palestinians “supports IsraeliPalestinian understanding, security coordination and stability.” The restoration of aid also confirms that, unlike the Trump administration, the Biden administration sees the urgency of persuading the two sides to negotiate a solution in which Israel and a Palestinian state would peacefully coexist. The Trump administration gave lip service to that idea and even released a proposed map of how the region should be divided (heavily favoring Israel). It preferred, however, to focus on diplomacy that led to agreements between Israel and some Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates. Although those agreements were a real accomplishment, they did little to advance what Trump once called the “ultimate deal” — a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Blinken said the aid to Palestinians would be provided “consistent with U.S. law,” and a State Department spokesman pointed out that aid would be administered through “trusted independent partners on the ground” rather than “government or de facto government authorities.” But a group of Republican senators led by Ted Cruz of Texas is demanding that the new aid be paused until the Agency for International Development ensures that none of the funds will go to the Palestinian Authority or Hamas. The aid should certainly be administered carefully, and Congress must exercise legitimate oversight. But there is no reason for the Biden administration to hesitate in reversing a policy that was not only foolish but also cruel.

The problem isn’t Brexit. It’s that albatross that hangs around the neck of Brexit – the Northern Ireland Protocol. The protocol is undemocratic, given that it dilutes the free, fair UK vote for our entire nation to cease being tied to the EU. It is duplicitous, given that it creates what our political leaders promised never to create – a border down the Irish Sea. And it is unfair, given that it changed the status of Northern Ireland over the heads of the people who live there. The protocol is an insult to British democracy and to the freedoms of the people of Northern Ireland – it has to go. The UK is undergoing a kind of neo-Partition. Northern Ireland, against the wishes of its Unionist majority, is being partitioned from the rest of the UK on certain economic, political and legal matters. This is wrong. And I say this as someone who has long wanted to see a United Ireland. But not this kind of United Ireland. Not an Ireland being increasingly united under the undemocratic purview of EU rule and against the wishes of both the Unionist electorate in Northern Ireland and the British people more broadly, who in 2016 voted in good faith for the entire UK to be an independent nation free of EU rules and regulations. Such a ‘United Ireland’ would be little more than an outpost of the EU Empire, undermining British democracy and keeping Brexit Britain in check on behalf of the Brussels elites. No thanks. Right now, for everyone who believes in democracy, defending the Union is the thing to do. Ditch the Protocol, make Brexit a reality.

STEvEn HILL AnD STEpHAn RIcHTER

ITH the Biden administration signaling a new US openness to a common digital tax, Big Tech companies may soon be facing a united transatlantic front. For the longest time, Facebook, Google et al. have tried to evade their societal responsibilities – profiting handsomely from fomenting divisive political and social debates. The best way to capture Big Tech’s business model is to describe them as quasi-“robot publishers,” in which algorithms often perform the essential duties of an editor. There is something basic and fair about the digital media giants paying for the original news content that they use to drive traffic to their own sites. The umbilical cord between the storming of the US Capitol, and the activities of Facebook & Co., are undeniable. The EU needs to ensure that its 27 members cannot be manipulated by Big Tech to remove the teeth from the EU’s bite. In recent weeks, two remarkable developments took place affecting Big Tech media. One of them garnered global headlines, the other occurred quietly behind diplomatic doors. First, Facebook and Google tried to bully — unsuccessfully — Australia over a sensible new law passed there. It required the digital platform companies to share their advertising revenues with local media companies, whose content the platforms regularly repackage and monetize. Second, a dramatic shift over approaches toward global taxation rules for Big Tech companies resulted from the G20 finance ministers’ summit. Unheralded though this may be for the moment, it could — and should — have major global implications. IS THE JIG UP FOR SILICON VALLEY? In a mostly unreported announcement, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told her G20 counterparts that the Biden administration was abandoning the Trump administration’s position on the tax treatment of U.S. technology companies. The Trump team had demanded that these companies be allowed to opt out of a proposed global digital tax agreement that would force them to pay a larger share of their taxes in the countries in which they operate. This so-called “safe harbor” provision – a misleading term for what really is an intolerable special interest carve-out – was strongly opposed by the EU, and for good reason. U.S. insistence has deadlocked progress on new global digital tax rules for several years, even as the Big Tech companies have taken advantage of loophole after loophole. A UNITED TRANSATLANTIC FRONT? For many years, Facebook, Google, Amazon, Apple and other U.S. digital platform companies have based their business model on shopping for tax havens. For

that purpose, they often set up skeleton operations in low-tax countries, booking all sales through that country. The notorious case of Apple’s abuse of Ireland’s tax shelter became known derisively as “leprechaun economics.” With the Biden administration signaling a new U.S. openness to a common digital tax, as well as a global minimum corporate tax, Big Tech companies may soon be facing a united transatlantic front. Evidently, the concern over the way in which these digital juggernauts undermine democracy has altered the new U.S. administration’s calculus. It is not just concerned about their Frankenstein-like disinformation machines. Equally bad is the anti-democratic way in which they hollow out the revenues of traditional media companies. ARE THE DIGITAL MEDIA PLATFORMS ACTUALLY PUBLISHERS? To be sure, these battles are about far more than a hard-fought debate over their tax treatment. At the core lies an important, yet unsettled debate: Are digital media platforms like Facebook, Google/YouTube and Twitter the new “public square,” a kind of global free speech Agora? That certainly is the dope their vast PR and public affairs flaks like to sell, and that civil libertarian NGOs such as the the Electronic Frontier Foundation like to buy. Or are they, in contrast, just the latest techno variety of old-fashioned publishers and broadcasters? Or a hybrid in between? THE RESPONSIBILITY SHIRKERS: For the longest time, Facebook, Google et al. have tried to evade their societal responsibilities. They have profited handsomely, even grotesquely, from fomenting highly divisive political and social debates, as their media machines crank out extremism all over the world. All the while, they have claimed that these toxic impacts were, literally, none of their business. TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE: Before the U.S. Capitol ransacking on January 6, the platforms tried to deal at best halfheartedly with their gushing pipeline of disinformation regarding the COVID pandemic and racial tensions. They slapped on warning labels and removed inflammatory content of certain users. That created an illusion of “action,” but it was not very effective. After the ransacking, which was incited and planned over Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other digital media platforms, these companies had a bit of a “coming to Jesus” moment. As the world watched U.S. democracy melting down, the platforms all decided to discontinue publishing Donald Trump’s tweets and postings. SURREAL LIBERTARIANS: For that, the companies were criticized by “open Internet” advocates for violating their role as digital public squares. But what the Internet libertarians missed is that it is completely within their rights as global publishers to decide they do not want to publish Donald Trump anymore. That decision is no different from Rupert Murdoch’s editorial right to feature Boris Johnson on the front page of The Sun, or that of the New York Times to feature Joe Biden. PUBLISHERS WILL PUBLISH… It’s clear that Big Tech platforms regularly use their publisher power to decide what content and sources they want to amplify or reject. This became obvious when Facebook pulled the plug on the entire country of Australia. Notably, in 2014, Google had done the

same to Spain, after that country had passed legislation requiring Google to pay news outlets for the article snippets in its search results. So Google closed its new service there. Those are actions that only giant monopoly publishers can do. “ROBOT PUBLISHERS” As much as these companies would like to claim otherwise, these are no longer passive online chat boards or free speech zones, and the Big Tech platforms are not merely managers of the digital public square. Perhaps the best way to capture their business model is to describe them as quasi-“robot publishers,” in which algorithms often perform the essential duties of an editor. THE FACEBOOK MONEY MACHINE MONSTER: From a liability or accountability standpoint, it should matter little that there is a supercomputer behind the curtain, instead of a human. Particularly since Facebook, with its 2.6 billion users, is the largest publisher/broadcaster in human history. Google’s YouTube is close behind, with 2 billion users. And yet existing law in the EU or the United States does not hold Facebook or Google accountable like a publisher. NEEDED: COURAGE ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ATLANTIC: There is something basic and fair about the digital media giants paying for the original news content that they use to drive traffic to their own sites. A lot is at stake in this battle over digital advertising-sharing, and the EU and the United States should lead the way to ensure that Big Tech media respect the sanctity of copyright law and stop undermining the world’s news outlets. QUIET BEFORE THE STORM: THE U.S. SIDE: One can only hope that the fact that the Biden administration has been noticeably quiet on this front is because it has a lot on its plate in its first months. The hope – and really the expectation – is that the administration is using the current time period to affirm its plans to tackle the GAFA complex in a sensible yet comprehensive way. This can has been kicked down the road for too long. The umbilical cord between the storming of the U.S. Capitol, the sense of permanent incitement that marks — and mars — the U.S. political debate, and the activities of Facebook & Co., are undeniable. QUIET BEFORE THE STORM: THE EU SIDE: Meanwhile, European Commission VP Margrethe Vestager says the EU’s 2019 Copyright Directive ensures payment to content producers. However, after two years of trying, it has yet to be implemented by 26 out of 27 member states. But that is not the only problem. As one legal expert says, “The Copyright Directive is already yesterday’s law.” The EU’s rules are already obsolete because, unlike Australia’s tough law, it does not require binding arbitration between tech companies and news publishers if they can’t agree on terms. So the tech companies will be able to stall and dodge. Steven Hill is the author of seven books, former policy director at the Center for Humane Technology, co-founder of FairVote, and former senior fellow and program director at New America and Berlin Social Science Center. Stephan Richter is Director of the Global Ideas Center, a global network of authors and analysts, and Editor-in-Chief of The Globalist.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

BuSInESS 09

KARACHI

IMF, World BaNk Urged to aId MIddleINCoMe CoUNtry deBt dIStreSS WASHINGTON

S&P 500, Nasdaq open lower as tech stocks weigh The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq opened lower on Friday as a rise in U.S. bond yields weighed on richly valued technology stocks a day after the S&P 500 set a record closing high. The S&P 500 opened lower by 1.06 points, or 0.03%, at 4,096.11, while the technology-heavy Nasdaq Composite dropped 42.30 points, or 0.31%, to 13,787.02 at the opening bell. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 22.62 points, or 0.07%, at the open to 33,526.19. AGENCIES

US adds Chinese supercomputing entities to economic blacklist

AGENCIES

HE International Monetary Fund and World Bank should do more to help address the growing debt challenges of middle-income countries and identify the “root causes of excessive and unsustainable debt,” the institutions’ Development Committee said on Friday. In a communique, the joint ministerial committee representing members

also called on the institutions to assess the impact of climate change on macroeconomic and financial stability. “We further encourage the (World Bank Group) and IMF to support a measurable impact in the transition to a low-carbon economy, while considering countries’ energy needs and mix, and providing targeted support for the poorest. These efforts will include phasing out of inefficient energy subsidies and other distortive fiscal policies where feasible,” the committee said.

Melt up? More money poured into stocks in past five months than last 12 years

LONDON AGENCIES

WASHINGTON AGENCIES

The U.S. Commerce Department said Thursday it was adding seven Chinese supercomputing entities to a U.S. economic blacklist for assisting Chinese military efforts. The Commerce Department said the seven were “involved with building supercomputers used by China’s military actors, its destabilizing military modernization efforts, and/or weapons of mass destruction programs.” The department is adding Tianjin Phytium Information Technology, Shanghai High-Performance Integrated Circuit Design Center, Sunway Microelectronics, the National Supercomputing Center Jinan, the National Supercomputing Center Shenzhen, the National Supercomputing Center Wuxi, and the National Supercomputing Center Zhengzhou to its blacklist. China’s foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said Beijing will take “necessary measures” to protect its companies’ rights and interests. “U.S. containment and suppression cannot hold back the march of China’s scientific and technological development,” he said at a daily news conference in Beijing on Friday. Companies or others listed on the U.S. Entity List are required to apply for licenses from the Commerce Department that face tough scrutiny when they seek permission to receive items from U.S. suppliers. “Supercomputing capabilities are vital for the development of many – perhaps almost all – modern weapons and national security systems, such as nuclear weapons and hypersonic weapons, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement. The new rules take effect immediately but do not apply to goods from U.S. suppliers already en route. During the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, the U.S. added dozens of Chinese companies to its economic blacklist, including the country’s top smartphone maker Huawei Technologies, top chipmaker SMIC and the largest drone manufacturer, SZ DJI Technology Co Ltd.

Equity funds have attracted more than half a trillion dollars in the past five months, exceeding inflows recorded over the previous 12 years, according to data from BofA, which has likened the stampede to a “melt-up” in markets. The flows are also raising fears of a pullback from record highs, given valuations are at the highest since the dotcom bubble of the late 1990s, with the S&P 500 trading at nearly 22 times forward earnings. “Goldilocks and melt-up are popular terms this week and we think that can be seen through market valuation,” said Emmanuel Cau, head of European equity strategy at Barclays. “We remain optimistic but there’s less upside left in our view.” Deutsche Bank said this week it expects a 6% to 10% pullback over the next three months as economic growth peaks. It was followed by a massive $40 million bet in the

U.S. options market on Thursday that the Cboe Volatility Index - often called Wall Street’s fear gauge - will break above the 25 level and rise towards 40 by mid-July. The VIX is currently trading around 17 points, the lowest level since early 2020. “You should definitely be worried about valuations and all the more so when people start justifying extremely high valuations,” said Fahad Kamal, chief investment officer at Kleinwort Hambros. “We are risk-on, but we haven’t put our foot down on the accelerator because of valuations in some parts of the market.” SIGNALS OF STRESS: A record $576 billion has flown into equity funds since November -- more than the $452 billion seen in the last 12 years combined, all thanks to ultra-easy monetary policies and unprecedented stimulus. Kicking off the second-quarter with the second highest earnings multiples in more than a 100 years, many traditional market-top signals, ranging from retail investor surveys to valuations, are flashing amber.

Some of those worries have seeped in, with investors loading $120 billion-plus into cash funds in the last three weeks. But equity asset allocations are still at a record 63.6%, according to BofA. Kamal, however, said with hopes fading on bonds offering a real return, there is no alternative to stocks. Still, many signals imply that some of the world’s biggest stock markets are ripe for a pullback. On a technical basis, the benchmark S&P 500 and STOXX 600 are in overbought territories. Relative strength indexes (RSI) -- a 0-100 gauge of bullish and bearish momentum -- are at 70, a level that leaves them vulnerable to profit-taking. Sentiment is also bullish. The latest sentiment survey by American Association of Individual Investors (AAII) showed retail investors are their most bullish in the past three years. “Sentiment is in very worrisome territory as is valuation, yet money flows continue to push indices higher,” said Tobias Levkovich, Citi’s chief U.S. equity strategist.

An aisle of non-essential goods is seen cordoned off at a Walmart store, as new measures are imposed on big box stores due to the coronavirus pandemic, in Toronto, Canada. AGENCIES

Biden faces key test on EV battery trade dispute WASHINGTON AGENCIES

U.S. President Joe Biden faces a Sunday deadline to decide whether to intervene in a trade dispute between two South Korean electric vehicle battery makers that could impact a Georgia factory and his push for more electric vehicles. The companies, LG Chem and rival SK Innovation Co, have spent months trying to take advantage of past and promised U.S. investments, and ties to politicians. The Biden Administration, through the

U.S. Trade Representative’s office, is set to decide as early as Friday whether to take the rare step of reversing the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), unless the Korean battery companies reach a lastminute settlement. The White House declined to comment on Thursday. The ITC in February sided with LG Chem in its trade secrets claims, but permitted SK to import components for batteries for Ford EV F-150 program for four years, and Volkswagen’s North American EVs for two years.

Volkswagen of America CEO Scott Keogh said Wednesday Biden’s intervention was critical: “The White House could accelerate the future of zero-emission vehicles and green jobs, or threaten to reduce U.S. battery capacity and delay the transition to electric vehicles.” The global auto industry is racing to develop EVs. Biden has proposed $174 billion to boost EV sales and charging. Unless the White House intervenes, SK says the ITC ruling would force it to halt construction on a $2.6-billion factory in Georgia, where two newly-elected Demo-

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cratic Senators are the linchpin of Biden’s slim Democratic Congressional majority. Last month, Republican Georgia Governor Brian Kemp urged Biden to intervene, noting SK’s plant will employ nearly 2,600: “Simply put: the livelihoods of thousands of Georgians are now in your hands.” Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff has held numerous meetings with the Korean battery makers and Biden Administration, his office confirmed, and stressed “the urgent need for both companies to come to the negotiating table and agree to a settlement to save the Georgia plant,” a spokeswoman said.

LG’s battery unit LG Energy Solution is nearing completion of an Ohio cell manufacturing plant with General Motors and is close to announcing plans build a $2.3 billion second facility in Tennessee, sources told Reuters. LG plans to invest at least $4.5 billion in U.S. battery production over the next four years. LG insists it can handle automakers battery needs if SK abandons its Georgia plant. SK argues LG could not handle VW and Ford contracts and warns Chinese manufacturers may replace lost battery capacity.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

10 fOreIgn newS

kArAChI

MyaNMar jUNta SayS proteStS are DwINDlINg aS at leaSt 10 reporteD kIlleD by troopS YANGON

AGENCIES

YANMAR’S junta said on Friday that a protest campaign against its rule was dwindling since people wanted peace, and that it would hold elections within two years, the first timeframe it has given for a return to democracy since its February 1 coup. Troops fired rifle grenades at anti-coup protesters on Friday in the town of Bago, near the main city Yangon, witnesses and news reports said. At least 10 people were killed and their bodies piled up in the corner of a pagoda, they said. Myanmar Now news and Mawkun, an online news magazine, said at least 20 peo-

ple were killed and many wounded. It was not possible to get a precise toll because troops had cordoned off the area near the pagoda, they said. Junta spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun told a news conference in the capital, Naypyitaw, that the country was returning to normal and government ministries and banks would resume full operations soon. More than 600 people have been killed by security forces cracking down on protests against the coup, according to an activist group. The country has ground to a standstill because of the protest campaign and widespread strikes against military rule. “The reason of reducing protests is due to cooperation of people who want peace, which we value,” Zaw Min Tun said. “We request people to cooperate with security

forces and help them.” He said the military had recorded 248 deaths and he denied that automatic weapons had been used. Sixteen policemen had also been killed, he said. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group has said 614 people, including 48 children, had been killed by security forces since the coup, as of Thursday evening. More than 2,800 were in detention, it said. “We are humbled by their courage and dignity,” a group of 18 ambassadors in the country said of the protesters in a joint statement. “We stand together to support the hopes and aspirations of all those who believe in a free, just, peaceful and democratic Myanmar. Violence has to stop, all political de-

tainees must be released and democracy must be restored.” The statement was signed by the ambassadors of the United States, Britain, the EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland and several other European nations. “The suggestions from neighbouring countries and big countries and powerful people in politics, we respect them,” Zaw Min Tun said. He also accused members of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy of arson and said the protest campaign was being financed by foreign money, but gave no details. Suu Kyi and many of her party colleagues have been in custody since the coup. Zaw Min Tun said reports that some members of the international community did

COVAX says India's Serum Institute bound to supply virus vaccines

not recognise the military government were “fake news”. “We are cooperating with foreign countries and working together with neighbouring countries,” the spokesman said. The United Nations special envoy for Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, had wanted to visit the country but said she has been rebuffed by the generals. She said on Friday she had arrived in Bangkok, the capital of neighbouring Thailand. “I regret that Tatmadaw answered me yesterday that they are not ready to receive me,” Schraner Burgener said on her official Twitter account, referring to the Myanmar military. “I am ready for dialogue. Violence never leads to peaceful sustainable solutions.”

India objects to US Navy ship’s patrol without consent NEW DELHI

NEW DELHI AGENCIES

The Serum Institute of India (SII) is legally compelled to ship coronavirus vaccine to global vaccine sharing facility COVAX, its co-lead Gavi has told Reuters, a provision that could complicate the firm’s efforts to boost domestic supplies. India, where infections have surged to 13.06 million, suspended all major exports of vaccines last month to fill demand at home, forcing the world’s biggest vaccine maker to divert nearly all its production to the domestic market. “The agreement is legally binding and served as a basis for the first-round

allocation document, which has been communicated to all participating economies,” a Gavi spokeswoman said in an email. The pact specified Gavi would receive from SII 1.1 billion doses of either the AstraZeneca vaccine or that of Novavax, with 200 million committed, and the rest on option. SII partner AstraZeneca has already issued it a legal notice over delays to other shipments, even as many Indian states have complained of a shortage facing priority recipients. Gavi said its pact with SII took effect when the World Health Organization approved the AstraZeneca shot on February 15, after a source said SII had originally been supposed to send doses to COVAX

only from May. “SII has pledged that, alongside supplying India, it will prioritise the COVAX multilateral solution for equitable distribution,” Gavi added. COVAX had expected here a total of more than 100 million doses from SII between February and May, excluding supplies for India, but has so far received here only about 18.2 million. Serum has sent another 10 million doses to the Indian government through COVAX, Gavi said. Gavi did not respond on Friday to questions about what now lies ahead. SII also did not immediately respond to a request for comment. From an initial August target of vaccine coverage for 300 million of its high-

est-risk people, or just over a fifth of its population of 1.35 billion, India has upped the figure by about 100 million, adding pressure on SII to crank up supplies. India could resume vaccine exports by June, the firm’s chief executive, Adar Poonawalla, told media this week. The firm has also sought $403 million from New Delhi as a grant to boost monthly output to more than 100 million doses by end-May, from 65 million to 70 million now. On Thursday, the foreign ministry said domestic demand would determine the extent of India’s exports. It has already shipped 64.5 million doses and given out 92 million at home.

Norway prime minister fined by police over virus rules violation OSLO AGENCIES

Norwegian police said on Friday they have fined Prime Minister Erna Solberg for breaking Covid-19 social distancing rules when she organised a family gathering to celebrate her birthday. The fine is for 20,000 Norwegian crowns ($2,352), police chief Ole Saeverud told a news conference. The two-term prime minister apologised last month for organising an event for her 60th birthday with 13 family members at a mountain resort in late February, despite a government ban on gatherings of more than 10 people. While the police would not have issued a fine in most such cases, the prime minister has been at the forefront of the government’s

work to impose restrictions, police said. “Though the law is the same for all,

all are not equal in front of the law,” said Saeverud, justifying the fine.

“It is therefore correct to issue a fine in order to uphold the general public’s trust in the rules on social restrictions,” he said. Police said Solberg and her husband, Sindre Finnes, made the decision together to hold a celebration and picked the restaurant, with Finnes taking care of the practical arrangements. Though police said he had broken the law as well, he was not fined. The restaurant where the celebration took place was also found to have violated the law but it was not fined. “Solberg is the country’s leader and she has been at the forefront of the restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the virus,” said Saeverud. The prime minister’s office was not immediately available for comment.

AGENCIES

India on Friday objected to a US Navy ship conducting a “freedom of navigation” patrol in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without its prior consent. “We have conveyed our concerns regarding this passage through our EEZ to the government of USA through diplomatic channels,” India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. The US 7th Fleet said in a statement earlier that the USS John Paul Jones on Wednesday “asserted navigational rights and freedoms approximately 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands, inside India’s EEZ, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law”.It said India’s requirement that countries receive prior consent for military operations in its EEZ was “inconsistent with international law” and that the United States “will fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows”. Bagchi said the vessel was monitored continuously as it sailed from the Persian Gulf toward the Malacca Strait. He said in a statement that India believes the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea does not authorise countries to carry out military exercises or manoeuvres, particularly involving the use of weapons or explosives, in other states’ EEZs and continental shelfs without the consent of the coastal state.

Dozens burned alive in Congo bus crash KINSHASA AGENCIES

About 40 passengers were burned alive when a bus overturned and caught fire in western Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday, an official said. The accident occurred near the village of Kiwawa, a sixhour drive east of the capital Kinshasa, Kwilu province governor Willy Itshundala said. “Almost nothing can be recovered,” Itshundala told Reuters by telephone. “Out of 31 survivors, nine are seriously injured.” Videos shared on social media showed the vehicle on its side, its undercarriage burning and fruit spilled across the road. Reuters was not able to verify the footage.

Biden's first budget marks sharp change from Trump years WASHINGTON AGENCIES

US President Joe Biden asked Congress to sharply increase spending to combat climate change and gun violence in a budget that marks a sharp departure from his predecessor, Donald Trump. The $1.5 trillion budget, reflecting an 8 per cent increase in base funding from the current year, would invest billions more in public transportation and environmental clean-ups, slash funding for a border wall and expand funding for background checks on gun sales, each goal clashing with the prior administration. Nearly three months into a job consumed by the fight against the Covid-19 pan-

demic, the document offered a long-awaited glimpse into Biden’s agenda and kick-starts a gruelling negotiation with Congress over what will ultimately be funded. Biden would increase spending by $14 billion across agencies to deal with the effects of greenhouse gas emissions, a shift from the Trump administration’s dismissal of climate science. The president would spend millions on dealing with rising numbers of unaccompanied children showing up at the country’s southern border from Central America, including $861 million to invest in that region. But his budget would provide no funding for the construction of a border wall, a signature Trump priority, and would increase funding for investigation of immigration

agents accused of “white supremacy.” Among the biggest proposed increases in funding are for schools in poorer neighbourhoods and on researching deadly diseases other than the Covid-19 pandemic that has dominated his term in office so far. Biden would spend $6.5 billion to launch a group leading targeted research into diseases from cancer to diabetes and Alzheimer’s, a program that reflects Biden’s long desire to use government spending to create breakthroughs in medical research. Biden requested some $715 billion for the Department of Defence, roughly even in inflation-adjusted terms with this year, and a compromise between liberals trying to impose cuts and hawks who want military spending to increase.

The money earmarked for the Pentagon aims to deter China, support modernising the nuclear missile inventory and building “climate resiliency” at military facilities. Known as a “skinny” budget, Biden’s proposal on Friday provided only cursory figures on “discretionary” programmes and departments where Congress has flexibility to decide what it wants to spend for the fiscal year starting in October. The White House had been delayed in producing the document, blaming resistance from political officials during the handover from Trump and denying that competing interests over issues like military funding played a role. The proposal does not include Biden’s $2 trillion infrastructure proposal or changes

in taxation, one administration official said. Those changes would be included in a full budget proposal to be submitted in late spring. Discretionary spending accounted for $1.6 trillion in the 2020 fiscal year, about a quarter of total federal spending. The rest is for areas deemed mandatory including old-age, disability, unemployment and medical benefits. Each of the proposals is just the first step in a budgeting process that will ultimately be decided in the US House of Representatives and Senate, where Democrats hold bare majorities. Biden withdrew his initial pick, Neera Tanden, to lead the Office of Management and Budget after she faced difficulty winning Senate approval. The office is currently run by acting director Shalanda Young.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

SPORTS 11

KARACHI

Pakistan, south africa clash in first t20i today JOHANNESBURG

AGENCIES

IVEN there is a certain other tournament that happens to coincide with this four-match series, South Africa against Pakistan at the Wanderers is unlikely to have global eyeballs fixed firmly upon it. One of the few T20I series longer than three games, it must have appeared, on paper, as the perfect appetizer ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year. These are two evenly-matched sides who have produced some of the most evenly-matched cricket in recent times, with the T20I series in Pakistan earlier in the year producing three enthralling clashes that had ebbs and flows usually only associated with cricket's longer formats. When Pakistan edged South Africa out 2-1 two months back, South Africa's squad was severely depleted as they attempted to rest up for a then scheduled Test series against Australia that eventually never ended up taking place. However, the then visitors will have been buoyed by the performances of what was effectively a second-string XI, and must have been confident they would get their first-choice XI back in the return leg with

a more seasoned side. But this series' clash with the IPL has exacted a heavy toll on the South Africans, five of whom are in India at the moment. To make matters worse, injuries have struck a number of those waiting in the wings to replace them, with Temba Bavuma and Dwaine Pretorius - who famously took 5 for 17 in Lahore in February - both ruled out. Rassie van der Dussen is also a doubt, while Reeza Hendricks has withdrawn due to the birth of his child this week. All this gives Pakistan a clear shot at stamping their authority in a country where their T20I series-winning streak ground to a halt in 2019, with the wheels coming off the hottest T20I run since the format's inception. Two years on, Pakistan are a shadow of that dominant unit but will fancy themselves to avenge that defeat with a squad that has no real injury issues of its own. Shadab Khan's absence is well covered by Usman Qadir, while Fakhar Zaman's ODI form has earned him a recall for this format. Mohammad Hafeez, one of the key absences for Pakistan in the home series in February, is also available. The Pakistan bowlers likely to feature are mostly the same personnel who did the job in the ODI series, though should the visitors wrap this series up early, there might be the possibility of younger players being handed inter-

RCB down Mumbai Indians by 2 wickets CHENNAi AGENCIES

Two men who had played no senior competitive cricket since IPL 2020 turned up with ball and then bat, as the Royal Challengers Bangalore began IPL 2021 with a last-ball win against defending champions Mumbai Indians. Harshal Patel took the IPL's first fivewicket haul against Mumbai, returning 5 for 27 in four overs, ripping the heart out of Mumbai's monster hitters with a variety of slower balls and inch-perfect yorkers to keep the IPL's winning-est side to just 159 for 9. The Royal Challengers then had the game well in hand with 62 needed off 46 and eight wickets in hand, but a collapse ensued with Mumbai clawing back every inch of the way into the contest. However, they couldn't get past AB de Villiers not until the final over when he was run out - who had done enough to put his team in a position where they could get over the line. Just about. Patel bowled overs 16, 18 and 20, and was singlehandedly responsible for Mumbai ending up below 160 when they looked set for more than 180. His wickets were Ishan Kishan, the Pandya brothers, Kieron Pollard and debutant Marco Jansen, and each wicket was a result of the bowler outfoxing the batsman. His bowling meant the Royal Challengers could weather a collapse and still win, although they needed de Villiers to smash 48 off 27 in a death-overs masterclass of his own, taking on Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. Patel still needed to come out and hit the winning run with one needed off the final ball, digging out a Jansen yorker to short fine leg to scamper the single that sealed the match. CHRIS LYNN STOPS, EDGES, THEN STARTS: Early indications of how the pitch would play arrived in the opening overs, with Rohit Sharma and Chris Lynn often early into their shots, and the ball not only sticking in the pitch but also keeping low. Lynn was given a chance thanks to Quinton de Kock still being in quarantine, and looked rusty. A mix-up that resulted in Sharma - who had just begun to find his flow - being run out didn't help Mumbai. However, Lynn rode his luck to stick around. He had no fewer than five edges and mis-hits during his stay, until the sixth one consumed him. But before being dismissed, he had converted an iffy start, where he was 6 off 11, into an innings of 49 off 35. He stuck to his strengths, muscling the ball once he had sussed the pace of the pitch better, taking boundaries off Yuzvendra Chahal and Shahbaz Ahmed. Suryakumar Yadav was fluent right from the time he came in, and with Lynn beginning to hit with more authority, Mumbai looked on track to get a score in the region of 180. Yadav's dismissal, edging behind a Kyle Jamieson slower bouncer, made Mumbai stutter somewhat. Kishan still kept them going, and with a middle order packed with big hitters, Mumbai still seemed well on top.

national experience. Nineteen-year-old Mohammad Wasim was one of the most impressive PSL prospects earlier this year, and is a part of the squad. As is Arshad Iqbal, who followed up a stellar PSL season last year with another distinguished campaign this time around. With the T20 World Cup fast approaching and the opposition down to bare bones before the series even begins, Pakistan may find they have the chance to flex their bench strength in a way few sides do in South Africa. IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Kyle Verreynne hasn't yet played a T20I match, but already seems like he will be one of the key hopes for this depleted South Africa side. The 23-year old has long been regarded as one of the stars of the future generation and in the few ODIs he has had the chance to play, he has shown why. His most recent game - the third ODI against Pakistan - saw him drag his side from a near-certain defeat to well within contention with a 53-ball 62. It is that sort of confidence in his abilities that has sparked comparisons with some of his more decorated countrymen over the years. His domestic T20 record isn't quite as impressive as his firstclass numbers, but if he's looking to grab a spot in this side, this is an obvious chance. Sharjeel Khan looks set to return to Pakistan colours

AGENCIES

World No 1 Ashleigh Barty defeated hometown favourite Shelby Rogers 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-4 in the third round of the WTA clay court tournament in Charleston, South Carolina on Thursday. Barty moves on to the quarter-finals where she will face Spain’s Paula Badosa, a 6-3, 6-3 winner over Caty McNally of the US. “Shelby’s an exceptional ball-striker, she always makes you work very hard for every single point, every single match, and tonight was no different,” said Barty. The Australian from Ipswich arrived in Charleston fresh off a victory in the prestigious Miami Open, where she successfully defended a WTA title for the first time. After a first-round bye she made a quick adjustment to the green clay of Charleston, needing just 61 minutes to

TEAM NEWS: For South Africa, this squad inherently means an uncertain XI. van der Dussen's inclusion would be a major boost for an inexperienced middle order, while Aiden Markram, Andile Phehlukwayo and Wiaan Mulder have been called up as cover. Zaman, who was not a part of the original T20I squad, might slot back straight into the side, while Haider Ali might be included after being overlooked for the ODIs. It is unlikely Pakistan will line up with two spinners at the Wanderers, so Zahid Mehmood might miss out. SQUADS: SOUTH AfRICA (POSSIbLE): 1 Janneman Malan, 2 Aiden Markram, 3 Pite van Biljon, 4 Kyle Verreynne, 5 Heinrich Klaasen (captain), 6 Andile Phehlukwayo, 7 Wiaan Mulder, 8 George Linde, 9 Beuran Hendricks, 10 Lizaad Williams, 11 Tabraiz Shamsi/Daryn Dupavillon. PAkISTAN (POSSIbLE): 1 Sharjeel Khan/Fakhar Zaman, 2 Babar Azam (captain), 3 Mohammad Rizwan, 4 Haider Ali, 5 Mohammad Hafeez, 6 Asif Ali, 7 Faheem Ashraf, 8 Hasan Ali, 9 Shaheen Afridi, 10 Haris Rauf/Mohammad Hasnain, 11 Usman Qadir. PITCH AND CONDITIONS: This should be a highscoring game, in line with the Wanderers' reputation. Inclement weather is unlikely to make its presence felt.

Man United on course for semis after win at Granada, Slavia hold Arsenal

LONDON AGENCIES

Manchester United defeated Spanish club Granada 2-0 in the first leg of their Europa League quarterfinal tie in Spain on Thursday, while Arsenal conceded a stoppage-time equaliser in a 1-1 draw at home to Czech champions Slavia Prague. Marcus Rashford raced on to a long ball sprayed upfield by Victor Lindelof to fire United in front at Los Carmenes on 31 minutes against a team enjoying a brilliant debut European campaign. Bruno Fernandes converted a late penalty after he was caught off the ball by Yan Eteki, with

the Portuguese midfielder’s spot-kick squirming agonisingly through the hands of Rui Silva. “They (Rashford and Fernandes) have been exceptional, so important for us,” United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told BT Sport. “It was a very good run by Rashford, takes the ball fantastically. Bruno is so confident on penalties even though the keeper almost saved it.” However, Solskjaer will be without the suspended trio of captain Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Scott McTominay for the second leg at Old Trafford next week. “It was not a perfect night,” he added. “We got three yellow cards and three suspensions. 2-0 is very good result. We know how difficult

Barty, Gauff in quarters; Muguruza retires in Charleston CHARLESTON

for the first time in four years. Few selections have been as contentious or had as many points of interest as the inclusion of the left-hand opener. There have been questions about his past as well as his fitness, but despite all the baggage Sharjeel brings with him, there is a reason Pakistan's selectors have been so keen to welcome him back. Half a decade ago, he was among the most fearsome strikers of the ball, and that hasn't changed in all these years. A glimpse of his power was on display at the PSL, where only Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan scored more runs than him, though neither could match his strike rate of 170.94. Against this severely-depleted South Africa attack, expect Sharjeel to go in all guns blazing.

dispatch Japan’s 77th-ranked Misaki Doi, 6-2, 6-1. Unseeded Danka Kovinic of Montenegro, ranked 91st in the world, toppled two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, the third seed, 6-4, 6-1 to reach the quarters. “We both have pretty big serves and she’s very good hitting from the baseline,” Kovinic said. “Today it was the key that I tried, and did it really well, to take her pace of the ball and use her energy. As you can see, her returns on my second serve were sometimes incredible – I didn’t even move and the ball passed by me, but somehow I managed.” Kovinic broke twice for a 5-1 lead in the second set, then served out the victory with four straight service winners. Kovinic will battle for a place in the semi-finals against Kazakhstan’s Yulia Putintseva, who advanced when sixth-seeded Garbine Muguruza retired while leading their match 6-0, 2-2 with a left leg injury. Muguruza fired 10 winners to Putintseva’s one in the

CMYK

first set. She mustered a break of serve after a medical time out early in the second before opting to call it a day. “I was already feeling some pain in my first match,” said Muguruza, a former world number one who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai last month. “The switch of hard courts to clay was tough, and in a very short amount of time. I started very well, and all of a sudden I felt a sharp pain in my leg, and it got worse,” the Spaniard said. “I didn’t want to continue without playing my best tennis. It didn’t make sense to me.” US teen Coco Gauff booked a quarter-final meeting with Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur. Gauff beat compatriot Lauren Davis 6-2, 7-6 (7/2) while Jabeur rallied for a 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 victory over France’s Alize Cornet. American Sloane Stephens, the 2016 Charleston champion, beat Australian Ajla Tomlmanovic 6-3, 6-4 to book a quarter-final clash with Russian Veronika Kudermetova, who downed Japanese qualifier Kurumi Nara 6-0, 6-3.

it is to come to Spain.” Yangel Herrera volleyed against the post for Granada as Spain international David de Gea kept a clean sheet on his first appearance for United since the end of February. ARSENAL STUMbLE AT HOME: Arsenal’s poor league form under Mikel Arteta has left the Gunners with the Europa League as their only hope of silverware this year, but the 2019 runners-up were denied victory at the Emirates following a 94thminute header by Tomas Holes. Nicolas Pepe had come off the bench to give Arsenal the lead four minutes from time, only for Holes to nod in at a corner and extend Slavia’s unbeaten run to 22 games, having already knocked out Leicester City and Rangers. “The final result leaves a difficult taste,” Arteta said. “The game was under control. We got the goal we wanted but we missed some big chances as well. “We played two or three balls we shouldn’t do and we put ourselves on the back foot and conceded the corner. They put bodies in there and it can happen. It changes the feeling after the game.” Roma, the only Italian club remaining in Europe this term, came from behind to take down four-time European champions Ajax 2-1 in Amsterdam. Davy Klaassen gave Ajax the lead shortly before halftime, but Dusan Tadic’s missed penalty proved the turning point as Roma keeper Pau Lopez turned away the Serbian’s effort moments before the visitors drew level. Lorenzo Pellegrini’s free-kick on 57 minutes slipped through the grasp of Ajax keeper Kjell Scherpen and Roger Ibanez won the game for Roma late on, smashing home a superb volley. Unai Emery’s Villarreal got the better of Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia, as Gerard Moreno’s penalty just before the interval secured a 1-0 victory. Emery won the Europa League in three consecutive years with Sevilla and took Arsenal to the 2019 final.

Saturday, 10 April, 2021

PRayeR TiMings

NEWS

Britain’s PrinCe PhiliP, husBand of Queen elizaBeth, dies aged 99 LONDON

agencies

RINCE Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth who played a leading figure in the British royal family for almost seven decades, has died aged 99, Buckingham Palace said on Friday. The Duke of Edinburgh, as he was officially known, had been by his wife’s side throughout her 69-year reign, the longest in British history, during which time he earned a reputation for a tough, no-nonsense attitude and a propensity for occasional gaffes. “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” the palace said in a statement. “His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. Further announcements will be made in due course. The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.” A Greek prince, he married Elizabeth in 1947 playing a key role in modernising the monarchy in the post-World War Two period, and behind the walls of Buckingham Palace being the one key figure the queen could turn to and trust. “He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years,” Elizabeth said in a rare personal tribute to Philip made in a speech marking their 50th wedding anniversary in 1997. Philip spent four weeks in hospital earlier this year for treatment for an infection

to have a heart procedure but returned to Windsor in early March. His charm and disinclination to tolerate those he regarded as foolish or sycophantic earned him a position of respect among some Britons. But to others, his sometimes brusque demeanour made appear him rude, aloof and a delight to newspaper editors, keen to pick up on any stray remark at official events. The former naval officer admitted he found it hard to give up the military career he loved and to take on the job as the monarch’s consort for which there was no clear-cut constitutional role. HEAD OF THE FAMILY: In private, he was regarded as the unquestioned head of his family, but protocol obliged the man dubbed “the second handshake” to spend his public life literally one step behind his wife.

“There was no precedent. If I asked somebody ‘what do you expect me to do?’, they all looked blank – they had no idea, nobody had much idea,” he said in an interview to mark his 90th birthday. After completing more than 22,000 solo appearances, Philip retired from public life in Aug. 2017 although he occasional appeared at official engagements afterwards. His last appearance came last July at a military ceremony at Windsor Castle, the royal palace to the west of London where he and the monarch have resided during Covid-19 lockdowns. The queen, who is 94 came to the throne in 1952 and the couple, who were third cousins, married at Westminster Abbey on Nov. 20, 1947. They had four children, Prince Charles, the heir to the throne, Princess Anne, and Princes An-

drew and Edward. They celebrated their 72nd anniversary on the same day that Andrew stepped down from public duties over the controversy surrounding his association with the disgraced late U.S. financier Jeffrey Epstein, one of a number of recent crises the family have faced. The death of the queen’s husband and closest confidant will raise questions over whether she might consider abdication but royal commentators say there is little or no chance that this will happen. In recent years, while she has cut many the number of official engagements and passed many royal duties and patronages onto Prince Charles, his son William and other senior royals, she still carries out the most symbolic of the monarchy’s state duties, such as the opening of parliament. While he officially played second fiddle to his wife, was regarded as the private head of the family. Some royal watchers have argued that his absence from this role in recent years with declining health has played a role in some of the monarchy’s recent travails, such as the crisis of Charles’s younger son Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, and the decision which saw them give up their royal roles. “The main lesson that we have learned is that tolerance is the one essential ingredient of any happy marriage,” Philip said in a speech in 1997. “It may not be quite so important when things are going well, but it is absolutely vital when things get difficult. You can take it from me that the queen has the quality of tolerance in abundance.”

In a power show, 30 PTI lawmakers show solidarity with Jahangir Tareen ISLAMABAD Mian aBRaR

Around 30 lawmakers of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) gathered at a dinner meeting held at the Lahore residence of disgruntled PTI leader Jahangir Khan Tareen and expressed solidarity with him. According to the PTI sources, those attended the dinner included eight members of National Assembly (MNAs), two Punjab ministers, four provincial advisers and 21 members of Punjab Assembly. As per sources, Tareen briefed the party members over what he called the ongoing ‘witch-hunt’ against him allegedly by Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Azam Khan and others.

Coronavirus in

Pakistan

CONFIRMED CASES:

710,829

LAST UPDATED AT 7:23 AM ON APRIL 9, 2021

DAY'S DEATH TOLL:

NEW CASES:

105

5,312

RECOVERED:

DEATHS:

625,789 15,229 SINDH:

PUNJAB:

267,970

243,295

KP:

BALOCHISTAN:

AJK/GB:

ISLAMABAD:

96,128

14,069/5,097

20,097 64,173

According to the sources, the lawmakers assured Tareen of their full support against what they called the feudal and bureaucratic mindset hell bent to destroy the gains of PTI Chairman Imran Khan. They vowed to accompany Tareen to the court on Saturday. Provincial Advisor Abdul Hai Dasti, Amir Mohammad Khan, Rafaaqat Gilani, Faisal Jabwana, Provincial Minister Malik Noman Langarial and Provincial Minister Ajmal Cheema also attended the dinner. Prominent among those attended the dinner included Raja Riaz, Samiul Hassan Gilani, Ghulam Bibi Bharwana, Riaz Ahmed Laali, Sajjad Warraich, Salman Naeem, Iftikhar Gondal, Aun Chaudhry, Tahir Randhawa, Zawar Warraich, Nazir Baloch, Amin Chaudhry, Khurram Leghari, Aslam Bharwana, Nazir Chauhan, Asif Majeed,

Bilal Waraich, Omar Aftab and others. According to the sources, addressing the participants, Tareen said that he had decided to make another sacrifice for the nation and challenge the autocratic mindset prevailing around the prime minister. He said that in the next meeting, new faces would appear and the rebellion against Azam would continue to get stronger and stronger. It may be recalled that PTI leader Tareen has once again decided to hold a full power show on the occasion of his appearance in the Baking Court on April 10. Tareen called on like-minded party leaders at his residence on Friday to work out a strategy. He consulted his political colleagues on the next legal course of action, and we will take the opinion leaders into confidence.

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indian police clamp curbs on media coverage of gun battles in occupied kashmir Police in occupied Kashmir have asked journalists to refrain from live coverage of gun battles with fighters opposing Indian rule in the region or protests, calling such reports a provocation amounting to interference in their duties. India has deployed tens of thousands of police and soldiers to keep the peace in the occupied region after revoking its constitutional autonomy in 2019 to weld the region more tightly to the country. In an order this week, the police chief in the occupied Kashmir Valley set out new guidelines for journalists covering the insurgency, in which fighters have targeted security forces. “No operational content should be carried which is likely to incite violence or contains anything against maintenance of law and order, or which promotes anti-national sentiment,” police chief Vijay Kumar said. Media were advised to stay away from the site of gun battles or situations that shaped as a challenge to law and order, and not engage in live coverage, he added. Kumar said journalists’ right to freedom of speech and expression was subject to reasonable curbs, so as not to endanger the lives of others or compromise national security. “Do not interfere in the professional and bonafide duty of police and security forces at encounter sites,” he said. More than 50,000 people have died in the revolt that erupted in 1989, government figures show. Human rights and separatists put the toll at double. agencies

China report accuses us of causing humanitarian disasters through foreign interventions China accused the US of causing humanitarian disasters through foreign military interventions in a report on Friday that was the latest broadside by Beijing in increasingly contentious relations with the Biden administration. The report from the government-backed China Society for Human Rights Studies said foreign wars launched under the banner of “humanitarian intervention” have not only cost the belligerent parties a large number of military lives but also caused extremely serious civilian casualties and property damage, leading to horrific humanitarian disasters. “The selfishness and hypocrisy of the United States have also been fully exposed through these foreign wars,” said the report, which cited a list of what it called US aggression, from its intervention in Greece in 1947 to its opposition to the Venezuelan government in 2019. It cited conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria as major US wars. agencies

Analysis: From Lahore to Lucknow, crimes against women spur more surveillance As cases of violence against women and girls have surged in South Asia in recent years, authorities have introduced harsher penalties and expanded surveillance networks, including facial recognition systems, to prevent such crimes. Police in the north Indian city of Lucknow earlier this year said they would install cameras with emotion recognition technology to spot women being harassed, while in Pakistan, police have launched a mobile safety app after a gang rape. But use of these technologies with no evidence that they help reduce crime, and with no data protection laws, has raised the alarm among privacy experts and women’s rights activists who say the increased surveillance can hurt women even more. “The police does not even know if this technology works,” said Roop Rekha Verma, a women’s rights activist in Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh state, which had the highest number of reported crimes against women in India in 2019. “Our experience with the police does not give us the confidence that they will use the technology in an effective and empathetic manner. If it is not deployed properly, it can lead to even more harassment, including from the police,” she said. Lucknow is one of eight cities implementing a Safe City project that aims to create a “safe, secure and empowering en-

vironment” for women in public places, and curb crimes with “safer urban infrastructure and efficient access” to police. But the project – alongside the 100 Smart Cities programme that relies on technology to improve services – is being used to exponentially increase surveillance, said Anushka Jain, an associate counsel at the Internet Freedom Foundation in Delhi. “Authorities have used crimes against women as a justification to step up surveillance, but the massive spends on CCTV and facial recognition technology do not correlate to a corresponding drop in crimes against women,” she said over the phone. “By targeting women disproportionately (authorities) are creating new problems in a society where women are already constantly tracked in their homes and for whom anonymity in public places is so important,” she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Lucknow Police Commissioner D.K. Thakur declined to give details on how the technology will be deployed, and how the data will be monitored or used. WATCHED CONSTANTLY: Worldwide, the rise of cloud computing and artificial intelligence technologies has popularised the use of facial recognition for a range of applications from tracking criminals to admitting concert-goers. In Pakistan and India, these systems

are being touted as necessary to modernise understaffed police forces and aid their information gathering and criminal identification processes. But technology and privacy experts say the benefits are not clear and that they could breach people’s privacy, and that without data protection laws, there is little clarity on how the data is stored, who can access it and for what purpose. The technology is also plagued with issues of accuracy, particularly in identifying darker-skinned women, non-binary people and those from ethnic minorities. The Delhi Police, in 2018, reported that its trial facial recognition system had an accuracy rate of 2%. The Ministry of Women and Child Development later said the system could not accurately distinguish between boys and girls. “We must question the efficacy of this solution and the dependence on digital infrastructure to solve socio-technical challenges,” said Ashali Bhandari, a senior urban planner at Tandem Research in Goa. “It’s ironic that shielding women from unwanted attention involves watching them constantly through digital technology networks. It’s not empowering women, rather it promotes the idea that women need to be watched for their own safety,” she said. At least 50 facial recognition systems are in place across India, and the govern-

ment plans to roll out a nationwide network. Dozens of cities have also introduced mobile safety apps. Meanwhile, a rape is reported every 15 minutes, according to government data, and crimes against women nearly doubled to more than 405,000 cases in 2019, compared to about 203,000 in 2009. TRADING PRIVACY: There is a growing backlash in the United States and in Europe against the use of facial recognition technology. But in Asia, it is being widely deployed. Under Pakistan’s Safe Cities project, thousands of CCTV cameras have been installed in Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi and Peshawar. Images from cameras in Islamabad of couples travelling in vehicles were leaked in 2019, while women at Balochistan University said they were blackmailed and harassed by officials with images from campus CCTV cameras the same year. Following the gang rape last year on a highway with CCTVs, the Punjab Police launched a mobile safety app that collects the user’s personal information when she sends an alert to the police during an emergency. That includes access to phone contacts and media files – leaving women vulnerable to further harassment, say privacy rights groups.

Published by Arif Nizami at Plot No 66-C, 1st Floor, 21st Commercial Street, Phase-II (Extension), DHA Karachi and printed at Ibn-e-Hassan Printing Press, Hockey Stadium, Karachi, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 021-35381208-9. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk