Diplomatic affairs

Diplomatic AffairsApril 15-21, 2013

An eyeful of weekly

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Romanian envoy realises a dream

Saudi, US envoys meet

Nawaz vows to change nation’s fate if gains power

Kayani inaugurates UAE-funded projects

German ambassador calls on air chief

Working tirelessly to boost Pak-Libya ties: envoy

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Speaking at his weekly news briefing here, Foreign Of-fice Spokesman Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry said Pakistan was in close contact with Saudi authorities to ‘facilitate and protect the interests of overseas Pakistanis in Saudi

Arabia.’ The spokesman said President Asif Ali Zardari wrote a letter to Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz requesting him to facilitate overseas Pakistanis there. “We are heartened to note the announcement made by the Saudi government that it has given a three month grace period to all Pakistanis to fulfill their legal requirements,” he added.

And Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz ordered a three-month delay to a crackdown on migrant workers which has led to thousands of deportations, to give foreigners in the kingdom a chance to sort out their papers. Saudi Arabia has more than nine million expatriates whose remittances home provide important revenue for countries including Yemen, India, Pakistan and the Philippines. King Abdullah directed both the Interior Ministry and the Labour Ministry to give an opportunity to workers in breach of the labour and residency regulations in the kingdom to clarify their status in a period not exceeding three months.

Saudi Arabia amended last month its labour laws, setting tough restrictions for overseas workers to qualify for employ-ment. The new changes barred sponsors from letting their workers work for others. They also barred them from em-ploying workers of other sponsors, which resulted in employ-ees being bound to work with their sponsors only.

The number of Pakistani expatriates in Saudi Arabia is con-sistently increasing and it currently exceeds 1.5 million. These Pakistani expatriates are not only earning bread and butter for their families, but the economy of Pakistan also depends on the remittance of these Pakistanis as well. The actions of the Saudi Government are justified, as they are doing this for the welfare of their people.

King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, has di-rected ministries of interior and labour to give three-month grace period to workers violating the labour and residency (Iqama) regulations to correct their status. Pakistani and oth-

er expatriates in the Kingdom cherished the directives by King Abdullah. It will help the expatriates resolve their Iqama problems with their employers.

It is the responsibility of all the expatri-ates in Saudi to correct their documents within these three months as after the end of this grace period, the labour ministry will not accept any justifications related to sponsorship and Iqama problems after this period. Labour Minister Adel Fakleih also called on all illegal expatriates to avail this opportunity and said that his minis-try will facilitate the expatriates to correct their status.

While Saudi Arabia has given this opportunity to all illegal foreign workers including Pakistanis, it is duty of Pakistani authorities to call on Pakistani workers in the country to register with the official authorities concerned in a period of three months in line with the orders by the Saudi King. The Pakistan Embassy and Consulate should have to work to get the workers their work and residence statuses corrected and abide by the rules.

Boosting Pak-Russia cooperation

Consul General of Russian Federation in Karachi, Dr Andrey V Demidov, said in a seminar titled ‘65 Years of Pak-Russian Rela-tions’ held at the Department of International Relations of the University of Karachi that both Pakistan and the Russian Fed-

eration have excellent potential for vibrant relations. He further said that the Soviet Union was one of the first coun-

tries to welcome the independence of Pakistan. He also said: “The history of our bilateral political relations saw both good and not-so-good. But irrespective of the given state of our relations, both the countries always felt the necessity to maintain cordial rela-tions.”

There have been major breakthroughs in the promotion of bi-lateral relations in the recent years, he added. The Russian en-voy said: “Since 2009, we have embarked on a very significant road: the annual meetings of the heads of states of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Russia within the framework of the Du-shanbe Four.” He said the meetings laid the foundation for the realisation of the regional model for future settlement in Afghani-stan, adding that the talks have improved the relations between Russia and Pakistan. Prof Dr Moonis Ahmar of the Department of International Relations said in his concluding remarks that both Russia and Pakistan should surmount the bitter past and rise above paranoia and mistrust.

Though Pakistan and Russia have not been close friends, there has been a realisation, in both Kremlin and Islamabad of the po-tential to build a relationship into something fruitful. Foreign Of-fice Spokesperson Aizaz Ahmed’s statement last week that both the countries will be hosting a round of talks towards the end of this month in Islamabad over a whole range of issues including regional security indicates that the momentum resulting from the last year’s warming up of ties between the two countries is picking up. President Vladimir Putin was thought to come over to reciprocate our leaders’ visits to Moscow and even though it did not materialise, we see that the goodwill prevails.

Russia is on its way to standing up back on its feet; its economy is now on the mend, which opens up window for trade. Besides, Pakistan’s insecurities resulting from the growing Indo-US al-liance manifest in the nuclear cooperation are genuine. Where they have given us fears, the corollary they lead to is that we get friendly with Russia. Moscow also happens to be a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which means that the goals and vision of our bosom friend China bearing similarities to its aspirations for peace and security make us a common friend.

Grace period for illegal workers in Saudi Arabia

April 15-21, 2013

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BUREAU REPORTKARACHI

Pakistan would host the next insurance regulators’ con-ference in 2014, a statement said the other day after a

two-day Saarc insurance regulators conference.

The conference was organised by the Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority (IDRA), Bang-ladesh, at the Bangabandhu Interna-tional Conference Centre, Dhaka, with a theme of “The way forward in the wake of global reality.”

Muhammad Kashif Siddiqee, joint director, Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), while delivering a presentation on the overall insurance sector in Pakistan, also highlighted the statistics about the performance of the sector during the last few years, which, by and large, portrayed attractive bottom lines.

This suggests that the Pakistan in-surance industry is poised for a sig-nificant growth in the years ahead, it said.

The Dhaka Declaration, inter-alia, includes recommendations for capac-

ity-building, developing a robust legal framework, setting up of a resource pool for reinsurance purposes and de-vising the market conduct for plugging unethical practices such as undercut-ting prices, efficient claims manage-ment system, etc.

The conference also recommended the establishment of a committee for Saarc insurance regulators.

The conference was attended by insurance regulators from the Saarc countries.

At the concluding session, the speakers called for a concerted effort by insurance regulators in the Saarc region in order to meet the growing challenges arising out of globalisation and economic crises

Pakistan to host Saarc conference

BUREAU REPORT LAHORE

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz President, Mian Nawaz Sharif, and Mustafa Babur Hizlan exchanged

views on bilateral relations and co-operation during their meeting at Raiwind the other day.

Nawaz said the PML-N will contest the elections with a determination to change the fate of the nation after getting into power through the ballot. He said the country has been plagued by price hike but his party, if voted into power, will make efforts to overcome this problem.

The PML-N head and the Turkish envoy, during the meeting, also the Turkish companies extended to the

PML-N government in Punjab in vari-ous projects of public welfare.

Nawaz also thanked the Turkish companies for this help particularly for making true the dream of metro bus service in Lahore. He said after coming into power following the next elections, the prime focus of his party will be on improving economy of the country.

meeting with turkish ambassador

Nawaz vows to change nation’s fate if gains power

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Pakistan and China will devise new methods to counter ter-rorism in their respective coun-

tries with mutual cooperation when the fresh round of dialogue between the two countries will take place in the Chinese capital Beijing early next week.

Additional Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry has left for Beijing

to take part in the high echelon talks with the Chinese senior officials on the question of counter terrorism. It would be first interaction of the senior offi-cials of the two countries for the pur-pose ever-since new government has taken up reign in China. The new Chi-nese government is keenly interested to strengthen further the cooperative ties with Pakistan. China is also con-fronting the menace of terrorism like Pakistan and intriguingly the external forces which are out to destabilise Pa-

kistan trough terror activities are also at work in some parts of China.

Aizaz Chaudhry, who is heading United Nations and Economic Coor-dination Affairs in the Foreign Office, said in a statement before leaving for Beijing that it would be eighth round of dialogue between Pakistan and China where the two countries will not only share their experiences and challenges on account of terror activities but they will also work out strategy to deal with the common threat.

Pakistan, China set to hold talks on counter terrorism

BUREAU REPORT KARACHI

Ambassador of Belgium Pe-ter Claes has said Belgian companies are interested in investing in a host of areas

including agriculture, ports and infra-structure development and oil and gas exploration in Pakistan, but invest-ment is not forthcoming because of security concerns.

“New foreign investment is not coming to Pakistan due to security reasons and negative perception of the country around the globe that should improve,” Claes told busi-nessmen gathered at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Indus-try.

Saying that Belgium and Pakistan have cordial political relationship, he pointed out that bilateral trade was not in line with the existing po-

tential between the two countries. He assured the businessmen that as an ambassador he would highlight all the strengths of Pakistan before the authorities in Brussels.

Being aware of Pakistan’s energy needs, he said Belgium could offer assistance in building LPG and LNG terminals as well as oil and gas ex-ploration.

He suggested that after stability in Afghanistan Pakistani products could easily reach Central Asian Republics that will help improve re-gional trade.

He advised Belgian businessmen to trust Pakistani counterparts in planning their business trips as the situation on the ground was differ-ent from what portrayed in the me-dia.

For enhancing trade, economic integration and exchange of delega-tions were imperative. And for that,

the Belgian embassy was working to streamline business visa proce-dures, he said.

He was of the view that develop-ing countries should accord impor-tance to the economy as the back-bone of the country. “Economic development is crucial to eliminat-ing extremism,” he said.

Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Muhammad Haroon Agar, while describing Bel-gium as the capital of Europe and the centre of European politics, said Brussels should support Pakistan in its efforts to sign a free trade agree-ment with the European Union.

“For Pakistan, Belgian support is imperative to achieve the GSP Plus status (which gives developing countries preferential access to EU markets),” he said.

Praising Belgium’s consistent support for the grant of Autono-

mous Trade Preferences to Pakistan by the EU in the wake of 2010 floods, he underlined the need for develop-ing close ties between European countries and Pakistan to get mu-tual benefits.

He offered help in expanding Belgium’s trade with central Asian states, China, India and the Middle East and at the same time sought its assistance in expanding Pakistan’s trade with European nations.

Trade between Pakistan and Bel-gium remains healthy. In 2012, Pakistan exported goods worth $420 million while its imports amounted to $354 million.

Major export goods were tex-tile products, cotton, articles of leather, cere-

als and sports goods. Import goods included iron and steel, machinery, pharmaceutical products, chemical p r o d u c t s , e l e c t r i -cal and electronic e q u i p - ment.

Belgium firms interested in investing in various areasn Envoy expresses concern over security situation

LAHORE: Jamaat-e-Islami delegation led by JI Secretary General, Liaquat Ba-loch in a group photo with Iranian Consulate official. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

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DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The Saudi Embassy in Pakistan has delivered a gift of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the brotherly people of Paki-stan, containing 200 tons of dates.

The consignment of dates was handed over during a cer-emony held here recently, which was attended by officials of the two countries as well as media delegates.

The Kingdom’s gift is an extension of the aid provided by the Gov-ernment of Saudi Arabia to the people of Pakistan every year, the Saudi Embassy’s Advisor Jasim bin Mohammed Al-Khalidi said.

For his part, a representative of the Government of Pakistan ex-pressed thanks and appreciation of the Government of Pakistan to the Saudi Government for this generous gift.


Bilateral trade between France and Pa-kistan will make a quantum leap after Islamabad wins GSP Plus status, which provides developing countries prefer-

ential access to European Union markets with re-duced tariffs.

“Although Pakistan is 65th in the hierarchy of trading partners of France, I am hopeful that after the attainment of GSP Plus, Pakistan’s trade with France will make a quantum leap,” Regional Direc-tor of External Trade Agency of France (South Asia) Pierre Lignot said while talking to businessmen at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

Lignot, who is based in New Delhi, said the French Trade Commission could assist French companies doing business in India to connect with Pakistani counterparts. “Customised services can also be pro-vided to interested KCCI members for match-making with French companies,” he added.

The French Trade Commission promotes trade relations between France and South Asian coun-tries and assists France-based companies seeking potential partners in regional markets of South Asia.

Lignot asked French companies to participate in the 10th “My Karachi – Oasis of Harmony” exhibi-tion, to be organised by the KCCI in July this year.

KCCI President Muhammad Haroon Agar sought fresh French investment, pointing out that many French companies were enjoying profitable busi-ness in Pakistan.

According to the KCCI’s research department, bi-lateral trade between Pakistan and France stands at about $1.3 billion and is tilted in Pakistan’s favour. The trade has not halted and is growing with the passage of time.

Besides trade, France and Pakistan has close relationship in diplomatic affairs, military and de-fence, culture and education.

France expects surge in trade with Pakistan


A flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the residence of the new honorary con-sul, Tariq Saud, the other

day here to resume functioning of the Romanian consulate in Karachi.

Speaking on the occasion, Roma-nian Ambassador to Pakistan, Emil-ian Ion, said the reopening of the honorary consulate in Karachi was his dream since he arrived in the country four years ago. He stressed the importance of Karachi as an in-dustrial city. After congratulating Saud on his new position, Ion said he had complete faith in Saud that he would do his best to increase the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The consulate in Karachi would complement the activity of the Pak-Romania Business Council, an independent body launched on Feb-ruary 19, 2011. “I want to extend my full support to Tariq and hope that he can act as a bridge for our two countries,” he said.

Romanian envoy realises a dream

Saudi Embassy delivers Kingdom’s gift to Pakistani people

Saudi, US envoys meetDA REPORT ISLAMABAD

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Ghad-eer meeting US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson. During the meeting, the two ambassadors exchanged cordial talks and discussed issues of common interest.

Embassy hands over cheque to COMSTECH

DA REPORT ISLAMABAD

Saudi Embassy in Pakistan handed over a cheque worth $ 200,000 to the Perma-nent Committee for Scientific and Tech-

nological Cooperation (COMSTECH) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Jasim bin Mohammed Al-Khaldi, Deputy Head of the Saudi Mission in Pakistan, handed over the cheque here to Assistant Coordinator General of COMSTECH Dr Mohammed Ali Mi-haisser.

Saudi envoy meets minister

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Ghad-eer, met at his office with Paki-stani Minister of Religious Affairs

Shehzad Jamal.During the meeting, they discussed is-

sues of common interest in addition to means of enhancing bilateral relations.

April 15-21, 2013

5

MONITORS REPORTCANBERRA

Australian Federal Po-lice played a key but unspecified role in the Pakistani police

bust of a people-smuggling syn-dicate responsible for an over-loaded boat which sank with the loss of 94 passengers.

Pakistani police arrested four men who operated out of a trav-el agency which had branches across the country.

The AFP provided assistance to the Pakistani Federal Inves-tigations Agency (PFIA) and the Indonesian National Police to identify the organisers and facilitators responsible for the vessel.

The boat, carrying 152 Paki-stani Hazara asylum seekers, left Indonesia for Australia in June 2012 and sank south of Java. The bodies of the 94 dead were not recovered.

The vessel reportedly had a capacity for just 60 passengers.

“The AFP congratulates the PFIA on the arrest of four key syndicate members involved in this venture,” its spokesman said.

“These arrests demonstrate the successful close cooperation between Australia and interna-tional law enforcement and the joint commitment to the fight against people smuggling.”

The syndicate apparently sent asylum seekers on valid visas to Malaysia, from where they travelled to Indonesia to board boats for Australia.

The AFP had dedicated liai-son officers based in several countries to support interna-tional partners and combat peo-ple smuggling, its spokesman said.

“The AFP appreciates the on-going commitment of the both the INP and PFIA toward com-bating people smuggling,” he said.

DA REPORT ISLAMABAD

Pakistan has unique geo-graphical and strategic geo-political location and considered to be the hub

of trade in South Asia, therefore EU countries should also consider Pakistan for enhancing trade and investment.

These remarks were made by Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) President, Za-far Bakhtawari while addressing at a dinner hosted by ICCI in honour of EU Ambassadors designated in Pakistan.

Head of the delegation and Am-bassador of the European Union to Pakistan, Lars-Gunnar Wigemark;

Ambassador of Greece Petros Mav-roidis; Ambassadors of France, Aus-tria, Czech Republic, Romania, Italy, Poland, Spain, UK Deputy Head of Mission and Swedish Deputy Head of Mission attended the dinner.

Speaking on the occasion, Lars-Gunnar Wigemark said that Pa-kistan and EU are enjoying deep rooted political and economic rela-tions as well as EU has supported Pakistan in a number of sectors. He said that Pakistan would get the GSP plus status by the end of this year which will give a better market access of Pakistani Products to EU markets.

ICCI President Zafar Bakhtawari apprised that European Union (EU) is the largest trading partner of Paki-stan with an annual trade volume of

over 10 billion euro. He said that Pa-kistan attached great importance to its relationship with the EU regional bloc as its annual GDP accounts $17trillion which was higher than GDP of US which is around $15tril-lion and China’s GDP of $7trillion.

ICCI President said that European society is very liberal and transpar-ent which give equal opportunities to its citizens to become member of parliaments, adding that its quite appreciative that even Pak-origin people are the members of Britain, Denmark and Norway’s Parlia-ments. He said that a large number of Pakistanis are also working in EU countries and contributing in the de-velopment of Pakistan in form of re-mittances as Pakistan’s remittances has crossed the figure of $12billion.

Bakhtawari urged all the EU Am-bassadors designated in Pakistan to support Pakistan for grant of GSP plus status which would provide easy access to Pakistani products in EU market and further enhance Pakistan’s volume of trade with EU countries. He said that EU is also considering signing of a FTA with India, therefore, EU should also grant GSP plus status to Pakistan before such arrangements which would improve the bilateral trade volume as well as enhance the Eu-ropean influence in Pakistan. ICCI President also urged all the EU Am-bassadors to promote the direct air link between Pakistan and Capitals of EU countries by using their na-tional air-lines.

Petros Mavroidis, Ambassador

of Greece said that Pakistan and Greece need to improve their com-mercial and economic relations to promote bilateral trade and invest-ment by taking advantage of new business opportunities.

Emilian Ion, Ambassador of Ro-mania lauded the devoted efforts of Bakhtawari and informed the meeting that Romanian Govern-ment has awarded him a honorary award for playing a dynamic role in further strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Romania and said that business communities of Pakistan and Ro-mania have to play a vital role for the promotion of bilateral trade and their greater mutual interaction is needed to achieve the ultimate ob-jectives.

Australian police help Pakistan bust people-smugglers

ICCI, EU dialogue for enhancing EU-Pak trade tiesn Envoy says Pakistan to get GSP plus status by year’s end


Belgium’s Deputy Head of Mis-sion, Dr Stephane Mund, has said that Belgium also con-fronted the problem of sectar-

ian violence in the 16th and 17th centu-ries, and it decided to deal it through education.

Speaking at a lecture on ‘Belgium, a country at the heart of Europe, a labora-tory of the European construction’ at the Area Study Centre for Europe, Univer-sity of Karachi, he recalled that when the conflicts began between the Catholics and Protestants – who fought several wars – the state and the church decided to deal with it through education.

“Conflict and differences in Belgium do not, however, mean that we kill each other,” he clarified. “We talk to each

other, find solutions through nego-tiations and resolve conflicts.” Belgium projects a model of peaceful coexistence and it never had strong military tradi-tions, he said proudly.

Referring to their society, Dr Mund said a Belgian is born with a brick in his stomach, meaning they like to build houses. They also enjoy socialising, he added. He admitted that the European Union was not very popular these days given its slow growth, but he hoped it will become stronger in the future.

Belgium always promoted a stronger European Union and was in favour of a ‘United States of Europe’ but not at the cost of losing the national identities of European states, he clarified. “We are a nation of industrialists and traders, and when countries are involved in trade with each other, they do not fight,” he said. “The population of Belgium is 11

million, which is less than 0.2 percent of world’s population, but it is the world’s top 10 trading countries.”

Area Study Centre for Europe in-charge Dr Uzma Shujaat appreciated how Belgium overcame severe public debt and recovered its economy in re-cent years to emerge as a leading Euro-pean market. In 1957, Belgium was one of the sixth founding members of the European Union. Ever since, it has al-ways actively campaigned for the devel-opment of Europe, she added. Belgium also supports Pakistan’s inclusion in the new GSP + scheme, which will come into effect from January 2014, she said.

The lecture was attended by French consul-general Christain Ramage and University of Karachi Italian Philology professor Pietro Lauretta, along with a large number of students and faculty members.

Sectarian violence also faced by Europe: Belgian envoy

BERLIN: Ambassador of Pakistan to Germany Abdul Basit posing for a group photo with Executive Board of Linde AG, Germany, Director, Prof Aldo Belioni and others at Pakistan Embassy in Berlin. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

6


Karachi Chamber of Com-merce and Industry Presi-dent, Muhammad Haroon Agar has urged Ambassa-

dor of Indonesia to Pakistan Burhan Muhammad to expedite enforce-ment of Preferential Trade Agree-ment (PTA) between Pakistan and Indonesia.

Exchanging views during the visit of Indonesian Ambassador to KCCI, he articulated that signing of PTA on the occasion of 62nd anniversary of Pak-Indonesia Friendship in the month of February 2012 was a cru-cial initiative to open new chapter of economic and commercial coopera-tion.

KCCI believes that the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) will bring closer the business communities of

both countries and will give a strong boost to the bilateral trade ties. He hoped that after enforcement/ im-plementation of PTA, negotiations will start for Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

He anticipated that after imple-mentation of PTA, Pak-Indonesia bi-lateral trade could escalate up to US dollar 2 billion in coming years from the current figure of around 1.3 bil-lion US Dollars.

Indonesia would be able to in-crease its export of crude palm oil (CPO) to Pakistan whereas Pakistan can export to Indonesia its fruits, value added textiles, carpets, fabrics, leather goods, chemicals, surgical

items etc. He urged for Indonesia-Pakistan joint ventures in crude palm oil and agricultural value add-ed products.

Bilateral trade between Indonesia and Pakistan has grown to $ 1.65 Bil-lion in 2012, up 15% from $1 Billion in 2008. Indonesia exported goods worth $1.38 billion to Pakistan while importing goods worth $273 million. Major increase has been seen in ex-port of cotton/ cotton fabrics and ce-reals from Pakistan which grew by $ 20 million and $11.53 million respec-tively while import of palm oil from Indonesia increased by $ 289.87 million. He urged the ambassador to expedite negotiations on signing of “Mutual Recognition Agreement” and take measures to remove non-tariff barriers on imports of fruits, rice, including monthly quotas, com-plex licensing system, and limited entry points for imports.

PTA enforcement between Pakistan, Indonesia stressed


The prospects of the spin-ning industry – an im-portant subsector of the textile industry – are ex-

pected to shine for at least another year.

The good news came from Chi-na, which has decided to continue support cotton prices at home re-sulting in the continuation of yarn imports from regional countries including Pakistan.

The government’s support to the cotton prices in China made it very difficult for its spinning in-dustry to continue manufacturing yarn, thus China is for the most part relying on yarn imports for the last few years. That is an ideal situation for Pakistan, which has surplus production of yarn.

“This is very good news for the spinning industry of Pakistan,” a national daily cited All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (Aptma) Vice Chairman Yasin Siddik as saying, “This will definitely sup-port the spinning industry of Pa-kistan.”

Textile companies have given new orders for expansion among them many are setting new units.

Aptma – textile sector’s lobby-ing group – recently said that the sector had borrowed Rs41 billion from banking sector in the last six months and invested in new ma-chinery.

Of the total borrowing of Rs41 billion, the share of the spinning industry was Rs36 billion, accord-ing to Siddik, showing that the sec-tor was already marching on the growth path.

In recent years, spinning mills

have seen very good times mainly because of the sharp increases in yarn imports from China.

The decision of Chinese govern-ment will result in more yarn ex-ports to China and this will bring in some investments in spinning in-dustry of Pakistan, said Bilal Alvi, analyst at AKD Securities.

The Chinese government said that it will continue to support cot-ton prices at the rate of $1.49 per pound (lb) for the next season. In this regard, procurement will start from September 1, 2013 and con-tinue until March 31, 2014, with no cap on quantity to be procured at the support price.

China procured 6.15 million tons of cotton for the state cotton re-serves during the September 2012 to March 2013 period, more than double if compared to the previous year.

On yarn exports and expansions at home, Ziad Bashir, Executive director, Gul Ahmed Textile Mills said, “Yes, yarn exporters will con-tinue to grow, but it is difficult to say how many will go for expan-sions as it depends upon individu-al choices.”

China to continue boosting spinning sector’s prospects

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Pakistan welcomes foreign ob-servers from different coun-tries to monitor holding of gen-eral elections in a free, fair and

transparent manner.Foreign Office spokesman Aizaz

Ahmed Chaudhry in his weekly briefing here said, “Pakistan welcomes foreign election observers because our leader-ship is committed to hold free, fair and transparent elections in the country.”

This exercise will help improve the credibility of Pakistan among the international community, he added. Regarding the decision of European Union election observers of not trav-elling to FATA and Balochistan, the spokesman said after getting accredi-tation from the Election Commission of Pakistan, all the observers were is-sued a travel advisory by the Interior Ministry.

So far requests have been received from National Democratic Institute, Commonwealth, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Malaysia, Australia, Mauritius and Maldives for sending their election

observers, which are under process, he added.

About threatening statements by North Korea, the spokesman said that Pakistan shared the concern of interna-tional community on the recent tension and deteriorating situation in the Korean Peninsula. He said that Pakistan always supported a nuclear-free Korean Penin-sula.

“We are monitoring the evolving situ-ation and taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of our diplomats and staff there.” Chaudhry said dialogue on strategic issues between Pakistan and Russia was scheduled for April 25 as part of the ongoing consultative rounds of meetings.

He said that issues relating to disar-mament, non-proliferation, strategic stability in South Asia and coopera-tion in science and technology would be discussed during the meeting. Re-plying to a question, the spokesman described Pakistan-China friendship as a source of stability in the region, saying that no one should worry about the growing relationship between the two countries.

About India’s concern on handing

over of Gwadar Port to Chinese au-thorities, he said that Pakistan-China relations were a source of strength and stability in the region. The two countries were time tested friends. On Pakistan-India ties, the spokesman said, “We have shown degree of responsibility and restraint on incidents of violations of Line of Control and hostile statements by India.”

Replying to a question about the travel advisory issued by the US State Department for its citizens, he said that the security situation had improved to a great deal as a number of visitors and in-vestors were travelling to Pakistan. An-swering a question, the spokesman said Pakistan was not a part of any scoring game on its nuclear programme, which was only for deterrence.

To a query regarding new labour and residency laws in Saudi Arabia, he said the matter had been taken up with the Saudi authorities and Pa-kistan’s Counsel General visited the deportation camps and jails there. In this regard Pakistan has also written a letter to the Saudi King saying that Pa-kistanis are contributing to the Saudi economy, he added.

Pakistan welcomes foreign observers to monitor electionsn FO says Pak-Russia strategic dialogue scheduled for 25th

ISLAMABAD: Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Liu Jian called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadar. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

7

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Department of Dawah & Is-lamic Civilization, Interna-tional Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) has or-

ganized a unique Islamic exhibition titled as “The Use of different type of modern information media to spread

Islam”. Dr Zaitoon Begum, Director Female

Campus, IIUI, Fouzia Saeed, Lecturer, Faculty of Usuluddin (Female) were chief guests on the occasion. The ex-hibition aims to provide a platform for students to experience and explore creativity, personality development and to correct the misunderstood im-age of Islam.

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The launching ceremony of the book titled “ Press and Politics: Role of Print Me-dia during PNA Movement

against Bhutto” by Dr Noor Fatima, Chair Person of department of Politics and International Relations, Interna-tional Islamic University Islamabad

(IIUI) held at Alternative Media and Research (SAMAR) office.

Senior journalist M Ziauddin pre-sided over the ceremony while many researchers, journalists and renowned figures including Nasir Zaidi, Raza Rumi, Mazahar Arif and Dr. Nabi Bux Jumani, Dean Faculty of social sci-ences IIUI were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the ceremony, Dr Noor

Fatima said she wanted to produce a book as a content analysis tutorial for the media students. She briefed about the role of English and Urdu dailies during the PNA

movement. The book is based on academic research by Dr Noor Fatima in which she has done content analy-sis of editorials and lead stories from main four newspapers of that time, during PNA movement.

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The Department of Trans-lation and Interpretation (T&I) of the International Is-lamic University, Islamabad

(IIUI) organised orientation seminars on “Job opportunities in the field of Translation and Interpretation inside and outside Pakistan” in Islamabad Model College for Boys (IMCB) and in Government College for Girls F-Block Satellite Town, Rawalpindi.

The aim of the seminar was to cre-ate educational ties with other institu-tions as directed by Dr Ahmad Yousif Al-Draiweesh, President IIUI. A large number of the students and faculty members of the both colleges partici-pated in the seminars.

Prof. Ali Yar, Principal IMCB and Muhammad Ali Siddiqui, Vice Prin-cipal (Head of Arabic Dept and fac-ulty other faculty members attended the seminar. Dr Muhammad Nawaz, Faculty member T&I, Shair Ali, Asst

Prof T&I, Ms Nargis Nazir, Assistant Professor were also present on the oc-casion.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mu-hammad Nawaz highlighted vari-ous job opportunities in the field of translation and interpretation inside and outside Pakistan. He said there is a dire need of trained and qualified translators and interpreters in foreign Embassies and Ministries. He also in-formed about the scope of professional translators and interpreters.

Mr Shair Ali Khan also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the ex-panding role of translation in the age of globalization beside the religious value and importance of Arabic lan-guage to understand the Holy Quran and Sunnah. Mr Nazir Ahmad lectur-er Department of (T&I), talked about the market value of translation and interpreting.

Meanwhile, the Department of Translation and Interpretation also organised a seminar on aforesaid topic in “Jamia Mohammadia” Islamabad.

Islamic exhibition held at Female Campus

Dr Noor Fatima’s book launched

IIUI Department of Translation & Interpretation holds orientation seminar

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Departement of Bioino-frmatics and Biotech-nology (BI&BT) of the International Islamic

University, Islamabad (IIUI) or-ganised a seminar “Recent Ad-vances in Molecular Biology Techniques related to Parasitic In-fections”.

Prof Dr Luca Rossi, Vice Dean University of Turin, Italy was the guest speaker on the occasion while Dr Jabar Zaman Khan Khat-ta, Chairman, BI & BT, IIUI chaired the seminar. Dr Muhammad Sher, Dean Faculty of Basis & Applied

Sciences and a large number of stu-dents also attended the seminar.

While addressing to the seminar Dr Jabar Zaman Khattak, conveyed the message of Dr Ahmad Yousif Al-Draiweesh, President IIUI that

to develop a better research work and awareness of latest develop-ment in the western universities the International Isalmic Universi-ty, Islamabad shall organise inter-naiotnal seminar and workshops.

Italian varsity vice dean graces seminar as guest speaker

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

In recognition of the perfor-mance of teachers, staff and students, the International In-stitute of Islamic Economics

of International Islamic University (IIUI) organised award ceremonies at male and female campuses of the university separately.

The ceremonies were presided over by Dr Asad Zaman, Director General of International Institute of Islamic Economics (IIIE). The cer-emony held in the female campus was attended by Shagufta Haroon, Director Academics, Dr Zaitoon Begum, Director Female Campus, female students and faculty mem-bers while in male campus it was attended by Head School of Islamic

Economics, Dr. Pervez Zamurd Jan-jua, Dr. Yaseen, Dr Noor ul Hasani, Ather Rafique, staff members and a large number of students.

Addressing to the ceremony, Dr Asad Zaman appreciated the perfor-mance of students in sports and cur-ricular activities and said students are the future builders of nation. He said the purpose of this activity is to acknowledge the services of all the contributors associated with the institute. He added that good performance should be encouraged and negative attitude should be dis-couraged as well. He said we should follow the Islamic conduct and work hard with devotion to achieve the aims and objectives of the univer-sity. At the end, Shields, certificates and cash prizes were awarded to the best performers.

IIIE organises prize distribution ceremony

13th short Arabic course starts

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Linguistic Centre of Arabic Depart-ment of International Islamic Uni-versity Islamabad (IIUI) launched

13th Short Arabic language course.In his opening remarks, Acting Head of

Faculty of Arabic, Dr Muhammad Bashir said that Arabic is very much easy to learn as compare to any other language. Allah al-mighty made Arabic easy to understand for human being, as He has chosen Arabic as the language of divine religion Islam. He said that world linguistics are agreed on the fact that except the Arabic, every language lost itself with the course of time. But Arabic is as much alive as it was ever in the beginning even after the centuries passed. While on the same occasion, speaking to the session, Dr. Habib ur Rehman Asim said that, lot of sentences, proverbs and handsome vocabu-lary of Arabic, is available in our regional languages, it’s just need to understand and identify them separately.

April 15-21, 2013

8

MONITORS REPORT SINGAPORE

The Bank of America Merrill Lynch arranged the Asian Stars Conference in Singa-pore which was attended

by various Asset Management Com-panies and Fund Managers of the world.

OGDCL representatives attended the conference and highlighted fi-nancial state of OGDCL which at-tracted the Fund Managers to invest in OGDCL in Pakistan. There was a reasonable demand and appetite for

OGDCL share in the international market. The investors raised the issue germane to non-availability of OGDCL share in the market and indicated their interest in OGDCL share and expected that Govern-ment of Pakistan will decide to make divestment a prompt, positive and encouraging response is expected from the internal market.

The OGDCL team interacted with foreign investors which includes Morgan Stanley Investment Man-agement Inc, Putnam Investments, LLC, Walter Capital Partners SA, Nomura Asset Management Co Ltd,

Dws Investments, Sloane Robinson LLP, Prince Street Capital Manage-ment Inc, HSBC Holding Plc, TCW Group, Aberdeen Asset Managers Ltd, NTUC Income Insurance Co-Operative Limited, Natixis Asset Management (International), Rovi-da Asset Management (Singapore) Ltd and Somerset Capital Manage-ment LLP.

The investors raised quires about the overall economic aspects to un-derstand some misconception about certain relevant areas which inves-tors typically consider while making investment decisions. The percep-

tion was developed on account of repenting of domestic law and order situation; the institutional investors have a better insight about finan-cial and securities market and were likely to take a mature position with long term investment prospective.

The other issues raised during the conference were Energy shortfalls with ramifications, effect of circu-lar debt on the ability of OGDCL to meet its funding requirements, gas supply arrangements with the ferti-lizer sector and resulting benefits for OGDCL, overall state of revenues, profitability, cost of doing business,

earning per share and share value of the company, dividend policy of the company, availability of OGDCL shares in the market and possibility of further divestment by the Gov-ernment, Incentives for the E&P sector under the existing regula-tory and policy regimes governing E&P sector, challengers in general and for E&P sector in specific and security situation in the country. According to the investors big lots of OGDCL shares were not available in the market as major share holders preferred to retain their share in the company.

asian Stars conference held

Int’l investors keen to invest in OGDCL shares

MONITORS REPORTKUALA LUMPUR

Pakistan High Commissioner to Malaysia, Shahid Mas-roor Gul Kiani has stressed the need for enhancing the

frequency of exchanging academic delegations and strengthening educa-tional linkages between Pakistan and Malaysia.

“We value such linkages in foster-ing brotherly relations and bringing people of both countries closer to each other,” he said during a visit to Asia Pacific University of Technology & In-novation (APU) Kuala Lumpur.

The High Commissioner accompa-nied by Community Welfare & Labour Counsellor Mr. Nadeem Ashraf was warmly received at the campus by Da-tuk Dr Parmjit Singh, the Founder and CEO of APIIT Education Group Malay-sia, as well as senior management, fac-ulty and Pakistani students enrolled at the campus.

He was given a detailed presenta-tion by the higher executive manage-ment of APU on different initiatives aimed at modernising and launching new academic programmes at the uni-

versity. He was happy to be told about the outstanding performance both in studies and extra-curricular activities by the Pakistani students numbering around 250 alone at APU.

Later, Shahid Masroor Gul Kiani ad-dressed a gathering of the Pakistani stu-dents and faculty of APU. He exhorted the students to excel in their studies and gain knowledge and understanding in diverse fields of Engineering, Manage-ment, Media, Accounting, Technology, Software, Multimedia and Services. He appreciated the efforts made by the management to provide excellent facili-ties for students.

He said Pakistani students studying in the Malaysian universities were the true ambassadors of their country and called on them to distinguish them-selves by displaying an exemplary conduct and producing excellent re-sults in the academics and extra-cur-ricular activities.

“I am glad that the number of Paki-stani students enrolled in the Malay-sian universities has gone well over 3000 and they are being engaged by the corporate sector looking for effi-cient and well-trained high-end work-force both in Pakistan and Malaysia,” he said.

More edu exchanges between Pakistan, Malaysia urged


The University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Vice Chan-cellor Prof Dr Nazir A Mughal has proceeded to

Turkey in the delegation of Gover-nor Sindh Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan for developing academic linkages with various universities there.

The delegation will work vari-ous universities in Turkey and held

meetings with the heads of higher educational institutes in a bid to de-velop academic linkages and train-ing programs with them.

The delegation will return to Pakistan on April 15, 2013. In his absence, Registrar Mohammad Nawaz Narejo would look after the routine affairs of the university.

It may be noted that the vice chancellor Dr Nazir A Mughal has the honour of being the pioneer of linkages programme in Pakistan.

Developing academic linkages

Ebad, SU VC visit Turkey


Karachi Chamber of Com-merce & Industry, Senior Vice President, Shamim A Firpo has asserted the need

for opening embassies of Pakistan and Taiwan in the respective coun-tries to establish trade relations.

He urged to open Commercial offic-es in Pakistan and Taiwan as first step to establish direct diplomatic relations followed by establishing of embassies to strengthen the political, commercial and economic cooperation between two countries.

He stated that opening of trade of-fices will pave way for developing vibrant relationship and people-to-people contacts. Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) hosted an interactive session on Pakistan-Taiwan bilateral trade on the occasion of visit of a high profile Taiwanese business delegation comprising of more than 20 businesspersons sup-ported by Taiwan External Trade De-velopment Council, led by Helen Lin to Pakistan.

The members of Taiwanese del-egation and KCCI members had Busi-ness-to-Business (B2B) interactions. Shamim Firpo in his welcome speech emphasized that Business communities of both countries have to influence their

governments to open trade offices and embassies to further strengthen rela-tions between two countries. Visa facili-tation and issuance on same day is also imperative to promote trade and busi-nesses. He hoped that the Pakistan-Tai-wan business communities would fairly and sincerely entertain each other.

In recent years, higher officials of the two countries have highlighted the need for closer economic cooperation to improve economic and bilateral trade relations with each other. Pre-sent volume of bilateral trade is not sufficient. It can be enhanced with mutual cooperation of the business communities of two countries.

There are many important sectors where both countries can enter into business include auto parts, textile machinery, steel products, bearings, electronic and electrical products, UPS and solar power products, etc. Taiwan has many high-Tech and spe-cialized industries where joint venture can be done. Pakistan is specialized in textile and agriculture can offer joint ventures in textiles and agro based industries.

He offered organising of Taiwan Pavilion in the KCCI’s My-Karachi Ex-hibition in the International Hall with one complimentary stall to the Taiwan Trade Centre and special discounts to all members of the Taiwanese delega-tion.

KCCI for opening Pak-Taiwan embassies to enhance trade

FAISALABAD: Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Zahid Aslam presenting a shield to Romanian Ambassador Emilian Ion during his visit to FCCI. DA

April 15-21, 2013

9

DA REPORT ISLAMABAD

Consul General (Hon), Repub-lic of Paraguay Mr Kanwar M Tariq hosted a reception in

honour of Paraguay Ambassador ac-cridited to Pakistan, Ausberto V Rod-riguez the other day.

Reception in honour of paraguay ambassador

DA REPORTTAXILA

US Ambassador to Paki-stan Richard Olson led a delegation of the US university students to

Taxila to share with them some of Pakistan’s most impressive cul-tural heritage sites.

Ambassador Olson reviewed US-funded projects to preserve the historic sites of Sirkap and Jin-nan Wali Dheri. The US govern-ment has contributed more than $1.5 million to historic preserva-tion projects throughout Pakistan.

“Mutual understanding between countries begins with respect for each other’s rich cultural herit-age. We are honored to have been a part of more than 17 differ-ent cultural preservation projects

throughout Pakistan since 2001, including restoration work on the stunning stone foundations of the ancient city we see around us in Taxila,” the ambassador said at the Sirkap site.

MONITORS REPORTMANDRA

American Ambassador Richard Olson visited one of the largest providers of eye surgery in Pakistan at

the Layton Rahmatullah Benevolent Trust (LRBT) hospital in Mandra, Punjab the other day, to commemo-rate World Health Day.

LRBT is the recipient of a grant from the U.S. Agency for International De-velopment’s (USAID) Small Grants Program, which has funded surgeries for 11,417 Pakistani women at LRBT.

The initiative targeted those who

are unable to afford treatment for cataracts and other eye ailments. In the past year, USAID has worked with LRBT to fund surgeries at six hospitals throughout Pakistan, lo-cated in Akora Khattak, Mansehra, Khanewal, Mandra, Lar, and Rashi-dabad. “LRBT’s success over the past year is an excellent example of how our countries can work together to address difficult, health-related chal-lenges. USAID’s small grants are used to augment the efforts of Pakistani or-ganizations throughout the country, and I’m pleased we were able to work with LRBT to improve the lives of so many Pakistani women,” the Ambas-sador said.

Olson visits LRBT hospital to mark World Health Day

US varsity students on Taxila trip

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

President Asif Ali Zardari has said that Pakistan greatly values its rela-

tions with the United States of America.In a meeting with the US Ambassador

Richard Olson in Islamabad, Pak-US re-lations and the security situation in Af-ghanistan were discussed in detail.

The US ambassador said that bilat-eral cooperation with Pakistan in vari-ous fields will continue as it is. He also briefed the president on the strategic dialogue to take place between the two countries in future.

US ambassador calls on President Zardari

April 15-21, 2013

10


Ambassador of Switzerland in Pakistan, Chris-toph Bubb, on his

recent trip to Sindh, visited some villages in Dadu district where the Swiss Red Cross is building 710 houses of the flood affected inhabitants.

An official of the Consu-late General of Switzerland in Karachi said this the other day. He said that the Ambas-sador of Switzerland, Chris-toph Bubb, together with his spouse, Ms Regula Bubb, and the Consul General, Didier

Boschung, visited the Dadu district in Sindh where the Swiss Red Cross was en-gaged in reconstruction of 710 houses for the flood affected people. The visit was organ-ised by the Swiss Red Cross team, it was further stated.

The funding of this project was the result of a solidarity

campaign launched by the foundation Swiss Solidarity in 2010 after the floods in Pa-kistan.

This foundation raises funds for humanitarian relief works and projects when-ever and wherever a calamity happens.

The total amount collected for the flood affected people of Pakistan amounted to over $ 45 million and came directly from the Swiss population. This shows the emotions that this tragedy caused in Switzerland and the solidarity of the Swiss people towards Pakistan, the statement added.

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

In a roundup of the US assistance ac-tivities during the month of March for Pakistan, the US mission has issued a brief fact sheet, the other day, encom-

passing five major spheres of cooperation including initiatives in energy, economic growth, community development, educa-tion, and health.

The mission’s release said that during a visit to the Tarbela Dam and Power Sta-tion in early March US Ambassador Rich-ard Olson joined the chairman Wapda to mark the completion of the USAID-funded renovations of the power station. Under this $16.5 million effort, USAID renovated three generator units and restored 128 megawatts of generation capacity — enough to provide electricity to 300,000 homes.

It said that with support from USAID, the Government of KPK, and the KP Tourism Corporation, 251 hotels and fisheries previ-ously damaged by conflicts and floods have increased their revenues from $454,000 in 2010 to $4.2 million in 2012. They have also generated more than 2,000 new jobs. The USAID provided $5.4 million in grants, tech-nical assistance, and in-kind support to these businesses from 2010 to 2012.

While dilating upon the reduction in Customs delay, the release said that to sup-port the 2010 Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement, USAID installed com-puter equipment, power supply, and Inter-net connectivity at the customs stations in Torkham, Baleli, Khairabad, Chaman, and Port Qasim, as well as at the Customs House

and East and West wharfs in Karachi. These upgrades will reduce delays in the clearance of goods; curtail unauthorised trade prac-tices, and lower trade costs along the Afghan transit corridor.

The USAID provided two tractor-towed mechanical sweepers and three garbage compactors to the Peshawar Municipal Cor-poration to facilitate waste management in the densely populated Town 1 area of Pe-shawar. The programme has already helped clean 30 kilometers of drains.

The release said that the USAID began construction of five eco-friendly, energy-effi-cient buildings to house new faculties of edu-cation at leading universities in Punjab and Sindh. The new facilities for teacher training will be equipped with digital libraries, sci-ence laboratories, and a media center, with wireless internet access available throughout each building. When completed, the facilities will have the capacity to train thousands of new teachers and meet our joint U.S.-Paki-stan goal of improving the quality of teaching through new degree programmes, changes in recruitment policies, and a more qualified university faculty.

Construction began in Sindh at Karachi University, Sindh University, and Shah Ab-dul Latif University. In Punjab, construction began at the University of Punjab and the University of Education, Lahore.

The USAID and the Marie Stopes Society trained 40 field health educators who visit some of the poorest communities in Sindh and Punjab to educate men and women on health issues, and to refer women to local health facilities. USAID covers the cost of services for the most needy.

Swiss Red Cross building 710 houses for Sindh flood affectees

USAID helped restore 128MWs of generation capacity at Tarbela

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Ambassador of Paraguay to Pakistan, Ausberto V Rodriguez Jara has said his country expresses re-

gret over terrorist activities includ-ing drone attacks in Pakistan.

Talking to media during and after a press conference, the envoy said Pakistan is a peaceful country and no one has the right to come attack in the name of terrorism, which result killing of innocent people. He said that terrorism does not exist in Latin America and we never live in such situation of terrorism. However, the Paraguay has always against terror-ism in any part of the world.

Pakistan and Paraguay have es-tablished active diplomatic relations between each other. He said there is a distance of thousands miles geographically but there is almost resemblance in social, economical and political affairs between the two countries. The people of both coun-tries are in favour of democracy and they have faced every difficulty with integrity and courage. It has been ob-served one of the positive facts among

these resemblances that there will be local elections in Pakistan on 11th of May while in Paraguay the presiden-tial and parliamentarian elections will be held on 21st April this year.

The people of Pakistan also feel proud to promote their social and tra-ditional aspirations similar to people of Paraguay. The economy of Para-guay depends on agriculture similar to Pakistan. Paraguay is one of the top listed country that produce hydro electricity and self sufficient to meet the country electricity requirements. The world largest hydro electric plant Itapiu is situated here which produc-es 18000 MW power.

I am fully confident that Pakistan is one of very important country which has a renowned place in the world and especially in Muslim world. Paki-stan has always supported peoples in the world who fight for their freedom and rights. The government as well as the people of Paraguay welcomed this type of respectful stances of the people and government of Pakistan.

The potential areas for increase in trade are IT, telecommunication, construction, automobile parts, food processing, fishing, agriculture, ho-tel & industry and real estate. In

Paraguay there are possibilities of Pakistani textile, garments, medi-cal and surgical instruments, sports goods particularly football and food products. Although the present trade volume is $11 million between the two countries but there are a lot of oppor-tunities and possibilities to increase this volume.

Paraguay government has taken a categorical decision that if any Paki-stani is willing to perform a positive role in the development in the indus-try and agricultural sectors in Para-guay, the government will offer Na-tionality along with Free of Cost Land

for establishing industry. I absolutely expect that hardworking and welfare Pakistanis will definitely come for-ward to avail this opportunity.

In order to strengthen and expand more friendly relations between Paki-stan and Paraguay, he suggested that both the countries can fully cooper-ate in education sector. In this regard, the teachers and students should be provided study tour opportunities.

Another area is tourism. Tourism experts may chalk out a pragmatic strategy so that people of both the countries come nearer to each other. Pakistani capital Islamabad and Par-

aguayans capital Asunción should be declared twin cities. Media and infor-mation sectors should be promoted. For this purpose there should be ex-change of programs between differ-ent government and private channels and specialist should be provided op-portunities to share their expertise.

There should be relations between businessmen and departments (Chamber of Commerce and Indus-tries). For this purpose agreements as avoidance of double taxation, preferential trade agreement and even Free trade agreements can be signed. There should be cooperation between the countries in sports. The common sport can be football. Paki-stan produces world best footballs while Paraguay has one of the world best foot ball team.

Political leaderships of both coun-tries should take opportunity from their experiences to stabilize and promote democracy. There should be parliamentary exchange of del-egations and friendship groups may be made in parliaments of both the countries, the envoy maintained.

Earlier, Consulate General Repub-lic of Paraguay Kanwar Tariq also briefed the journalists.

Distance yet similitude

Paraguay opposes drone attacks in Pakistan

HASSANABDAL: Federal Minister for National Harmony Shahzada Jamal Nazir addressing at a cer-emony during Baisakhi Festival. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

11

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The KFW Development Bank, on behalf of the Ger-man government, and the UN Refugee Agency signed

a financing and project agreement worth Euro 10 million for the uplift of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts hosting Afghan refugees.

The support given by the German government through the German Development Bank, Kreditanstalt for Wiederaufbau (KFW), is earmarked for execution of projects in the sec-ond phase of Refugee Affected and Hosting Area (RAHA) initiative.

The project will benefit six dis-tricts of Peshawar, Haripur, Now-shera, Mansehra, Swabi and Lower Dir. Launched in 2009, the RAHA initiative is designed to help com-munities in Pakistan that have hosted large numbers of Afghan refugees for more than three dec-ades. UNHCR acts as a Convening Agency for the initiative. The ini-tiative includes projects providing livelihoods; access to social services such as health, education, water and sanitation; infrastructure and reha-

bilitation of the environment in ru-ral districts and urban areas across the country.

By December 2012, some 1,080 RAHA projects had been implement-ed across Pakistan in these sectors. Around 3.9 million (585,000 Afghan refugees and 3,315,000 Pakistani citizens) are currently benefiting from these projects. The RAHA pro-gramme is also a major component of the regional Solutions Strategy for Afghan refugees (SSAR) agreed between the Islamic Republics of Af-ghanistan, Iran and Pakistan as well as UNHCR. The strategy was given international support at a confer-ence held in May 2012 in Geneva.

“The German contribution through KFW is a welcome step forward in implementing the RAHA component of SSAR,” said Neill Wright, UNHCR Representative in Pakistan. He noted “Through SSAR, we are not only supporting Paki-stan with the voluntary return of refugees to their country but also helping local host communities to benefit from quality services.” In 2012, RAHA was extended to Sindh, Punjab and FATA and some 496 projects were completed. A further

215 projects have been launched so far in 2013.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Im-ran Zeb, said, “The long stay for over three decades of the Afghan Refu-gees in Pakistan has had a negative impact on the socio-economic infra-structure, and as such the RAHA initiative is a very important contri-bution to rehabilitate and develop this infrastructure.” KFW provided EUR 10 million for the first phase of RAHA from June 2010 until Decem-ber 2012. During that period, 76 ma-jor projects in 690 areas of districts Peshawar and Malakand division were completed and handed over to the local communities as a result of the German funding.

The signing ceremony was attended by Mandy Zeckra - Economic Coun-sellor at the German Embassy, Dr. Anna-Christine Janke - Country Direc-tor KFW Office Pakistan, Jens Clausen - Head of Division, Crisis and Govern-ance KFW, Frankfurt, Haroon Razzaq Qureshi - Project Manager KFW Office Pakistan, Neill Wright - UNHCR Rep-resentative to Pakistan, Jose Belleza - Senior RAHA Coordinator, and Dr Imran Zeb - Senior Joint Secretary SA-FRON.

Germany, UNHCR agree to support refugees-hosting districts


In a bid to resolve the ongoing crisis of passport issuance, a summary was sent to the care-taker prime minister for his

special approval to issue 1.5 million laminates.

In a statement by Director Gen-eral of Passports and Immigration Zulfiqar Cheema, a special request was sent to the caretaker prime minster to resolve the 0.9 million passport applications which were pending. Moreover, the Federal

Interior Secretary Khwaja Siddique wrote to the caretaker premiere for the issuance of 1.5 million laminates.

The recently appointed DG indi-cated that the matter would be re-solved within a month.

The tender for the supply of lami-nate was awarded the previous company based in the United States as the Islamabad High Court had already issued a verdict in this re-gards, according to sources.

The printing of a large number of passports was held up due to the non-availability of laminates, caus-ing agony to applicants.


POSCO Chairman and CEO Chung Joon Yang has been honoured with ‘Steelmaker of the Year’ award at AIST-

ech 2013 – The Iron & Steel Technol-ogy Conference and Exposition, man-aged by Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST).

Chung is recognised as a visionary for global steel industry for his knowl-edge of steel operations, dedication to safety, awareness to secure raw materials, enthusiasm to incorporate new technologies, foresight to ex-pand POSCO’s foreign presence and prudent strategy to promote mutual growth with steel-consuming indus-tries.

AISTech 2013 will take place from May 6–9 in Pittsburgh, Pa, USA, with technical sessions and several key-note presentations by business lead-ers. The Technology Conference will showcase more than 400 presentations on aspects of iron and steel manufacturing technology.

POSCO Limited is the

world’s 4th largest steel maker by market value, Asia’s most profitable and the most competitive steel maker in the whole world. POSCO has been the bedrock of Korea’s industrial de-velopment over the past 45 years. It produces approximately 39 million tons of steel products each year.

Currently, POSCO delivers its prod-ucts to over 60 countries around the globe, satisfying some of the world’s most quality conscious manufactur-ers. As a part of its plan “Vision 2020” to become a true global company and to make its presence felt in develop-i n g regions. POSCO

has identi-fied Pa-kistan as a land of phenom-enal op-

p o r t u n i -ties.

‘Passport crisis to be resolved within a month’

POSCO head awarded

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Secretary Election Commis-sion of Pakistan, Ishtiaq Ahmad has said that final

decision regarding giving right of vote to Overseas Pakistani will be taken by the Supreme Court.

He was talking to media after a meeting of different departments and the Election Commission to consider giving right of vote to overseas Pakistanis.

Secretary Election Commis-sion said the issue was discussed in detail and its various aspects were examined. He said that meeting was called in light of the directives of the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

SC to take final decision on overseas Pakistanis vote right: ECP Secy

ISLAMABAD: US Ambassador to Pakistan, Richard Olson posing for a group photo with women on the eve of a reception. DA

ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Cuba, Zenen Buergo Concepcion giving away an award to a faculty member of Roots school on the occasion of golden jubilee celebrations. DA

April 15-21, 2013

12Working day in and day out to boost pak-libya ties

INTERVIEWABUBAKAR SIDDIQUE

Chargé d’Affaires Mr Ab-dul Wahed Abugila has said that the Libyan Em-bassy is working day in

and day out to boost bilateral rela-tions between Pakistan and Libya.

During an exclusive interview with DIPLOMATIC AFFAIRS, he said “we see a huge potential in almost all spheres of life to further improve bilateral relations.”

He said Pakistan and Libya enjoy brotherly relations, adding that the two countries have always been standing by each other in all trials and ordeals. He stated that both the countries had a long history replete with mutual cooperation, as they had a common religion. He added that cultural similarities also brought the two friendly countries very close.

Mr Abdul Wahed Abugila un-derscored that Pakistan and Libya were having common stances re-garding a variety of issues at dif-ferent international forums. He said the political leadership of his country respected Pakistani na-tion and accorded high esteem to its relations with Pakistan. He said the Libyan government was com-mitted to early completion of all its projects under way in Pakistan.

Referring to Pakistani manpow-er, the chargé d’affaires said Libya recently came on the track of devel-opment and got stabilized after an enviable revolution. He added that however the country was passing through the phase of reconstruc-tion, due to which it required Paki-stani skilled manpower and labour. He underlined that several Libyan companies needed workforce from Pakistan and they were interested in recruiting Pakistani people. He said although most of the work-force was required in construction sector, yet other companies also in-vited cooperation of Pakistan in oil, industry, agriculture, business and trade sectors.

Mr Abdul Wahed Abugila ob-served a lot of capabilities in the two countries skilled manpower, saying they could benefit from each other by exchanging experiences.

He also stressed the need for boost-ing economic relations by enhanc-ing bilateral exports and imports.

He also offered all Paki-stani companies, who had contracts in Libya before the revolution, to go back

and complete their works. He said the govern-

ment of Libya w a s

ready to fulfill all their require-ments in this regard.

He said they wanted to facili-tate the Pakistani labour that was why the Libyan Embassy opened its doors to them and decided to reopen its consulate in Karachi. He said the visa section of the embassy was working hard to complete the process of visas facing delay. He recalled that the visa issuance was stopped to make technical changes in the relevant software and intro-duce new codes on the visa.

To a query regarding illegal prac-tices and fake visa issuance, he said some groups exploited the leniency in issuance of visa, which he said was not possible at present. “No one can do this easily now, because the embassy is working hard to

serve the Pakistani man-power in an apt

manner.”Here, he

mentioned 58 Libyan c o m -p a n i e s w h i c h r e -

mained failed to abide by the rules. He said the embassy would not receive applications from the no-torious companies until they clear themselves. He reiterated that the Libyan embassy was very keen to serve the Pakistanis interested to work in Libya.

Chargé d’Affaires Mr Abdul Wa-hed Abugila said Libya was trying to benefit from Pakistanis experi-ences in agriculture sector. He said a Libyan delegation was planning to visit Pakistan soon for the same purpose. “We have asked the Min-istry of Foreign Affairs to expand cooperation in the field. They are working on it now. We are hope-ful that the efforts will prove to be fruitful very soon.”

Talking about military coopera-

tion between the two countries, the chargé d’affaires said many Liby-ans were being trained in Pakistani defense institutions. He hoped the military cooperation would im-prove further in the near future. He appreciated the role of defense at-taché in Islamabad in this respect.

He said the embassy was also working to enhance cultural re-l a tions between the t w o countries. “There are

P a k i - stani students study-i n g in Libya. Similarly

there are Liby-an students

studying in Pakistani

u n i -

versities and institutions.” The chargé d’affaires said the

embassy was taking steps to im-prove the image of Libya in Paki-stan. He said “we are working with the cooperation of media to show that Libya has changed now. The country is making rapid progress.”

Replying a question about their future plans, Chargé d’Affaires Mr Abdul Wahed Abugila said the embassy would launch Pak-Libya Friendship Association to improve Pakistanis and Libyans people-to-people contacts. He said the em-bassy was also very active to en-hance media cooperation, adding that they would work for increas-ing exchange of delegations relat-ing to various walks of life.

n Pakistan, Libya stand united in all ordeals n Embassy taking steps to facilitate Pakistanis desirous of work in Libya n Notorious firms, hiring Pakistani workforce, not being entertained for now n Embassy expedites efforts to expand economic, cultural and military cooperationn Will launch Pak-Libya Friendship Association to improve people-to-people contacts

Introduction

A dynamic and m u l t i d i m e n -sional per-sonality – Mr

Abdul Wahed Abugila – has once again been appointed in Pakistan as chargé d’affaires. The new charge’ d’affaires has a rich experience in the fields of administration and diplomacy, as he has been serving his country with various diplomatic missions in Africa, Portu-gal, Egypt, Morocco, Tu-nisia and Pakistan for the last 16 years.

Mr Abdul Wahed Abugila was born in 1949. He joined Ministry of Fi-nance, Libya, in 1971. He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1997. He worked in Pakistan for about one year ear-lier and on his departure left with the diplomatic community and his col-leagues very cherishing memories. Now he has once again been appoint-ed in the country as head of the mission of Libya. The Pakistan’s authorities concerned and diplomatic community have warmly welcomed him again.

April 15-21, 2013

13

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The Roots International Schools (RIS) man-agement held the High Achievers Ceremony

2013 and Silver Jubilee Celebra-tions at the Jinnah Convention Centre here the other day.

The celebrations were held on the theme of ‘Cultural Extrava-ganza’. The event was attended by parents, dignitaries and alumni of the school.

Ambassador of Nigeria Dawood Danaldi, Ambassador of Spain Javier Carbajosa Sanchez, Ambas-sador of Iraq Rushadi M. Rasheed, Ambassador of Argentina Rodolfo J. Saravia, Ambassador of Cuba Je-sus Zenen, Ambassador of Kenya Mishi Masika Mwat Sahu, Ambas-sador of Palestine Walid Ahmed, Ambassador of Greece Pedros Me-broibis, Ambassador of Azerbaijan Dashgin Shikarov, Deputy Head of the Mission Oman Sammar Ahmed Al Zadjali, RCCI President Manzar Khurshid and Faisal Sakhi Butt, PPP candidate for the NA-48, were present on the occasion.

Roots International Schools CEO Walid Mushtaq commended the efforts of the young Rootsians who got scholarships and accept-ances from different universities of the world.

Najib Ishaq got acceptances from Brown University with 100% scholarship of $226,560, Ohio Wes-leyn University with a scholarship of $110,000, University of South Carolina with 100% scholarship and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with 100% scholarship.

Ali Naeem got acceptances from New York University on 100% scholarship of $247,840, Rochester University on 100% scholarship of $220,200, Florida Institute of Technology with a scholarship of $52,000, Binghamton University, NY, on 100% and Syracuse Univer-sity on scholarship of $200,600.

Aymen Abbasi got acceptances from Canisius College, Buffalo, NY, with International Scholars Award of $60,000 and Marymount Man-hattan College.

Shahzib Zahid got acceptances from Florida Institute of Technol-ogy with a scholarship of $48,000.

Hassan Ejaz got acceptances from Florida Institute of Technol-ogy with a scholarship of $40,000 and Drexel University.

The students of RIS have re-ceived scholarships of $50 million this year.

Rodolfo J. Saravia announced the names of the graduating stu-dents and congratulated them on their successful completion of A-levels.

RIS CEO Walid Mushtaq con-gratulated the graduating students and the teachers for their com-mendable efforts. He said: “I would like to congratulate you all on suc-cessfully completing 25 glorious years of academic excellence with a long history of hard work and working relationship. It is heart-ening to see that our students

have earned $50 million scholar-ships and striving for excellence, nationally and internationally. In 2013, more than 500 students who appeared in the examinations se-cured distinction and high merit ranks. This success has broken all records and achieved positions on merit lists.”

Later, all ambassadors and branch heads were called on the stage and a cake was cut to mark the Silver Jubilee Celebrations. Finally, the high achievers were given awards. Teachers were also given certificates on the occasion.

RIS holds High Achievers Ceremony, Silver Jubilee Celebrations

April 15-21, 2013

14


The US Consulate held a mu-sical concert titled ‘Build-ing bridges through music’ at the Pak-American Cul-

tural Centre (PACC) the other day.Upcoming artist Natasha Ejaz had

the audience swaying to the beat of her song the minute she stepped on to the stage with ‘Today is the place’. Pa-kistani and American flags had been put up at the corners of the stage to emphasise the theme. Ejaz started off the concert by performing a number of songs from her collection, including ‘Love is a bird’. She also performed one of her new songs, ‘Hum bhagay’ [We Ran]. Chand Tara Orchestra then took to the stage and held the audience enthralled during their 30-minute-long performance.

The band’s guitarist, Babar Sheikh, introduced the band as one that be-lieved “that music was the land of the moon and the stars”. He added that the band had tried to combine music

of the 70’s and 80’s with contempo-rary music. During the half hour allot-ted to them, they chose to sing a num-ber of eminent Sufi songs, including one sung by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, ‘Na kar bandeya meri meri’.

Before the event, four members of New England Foundation of the Arts, Sarah Long, Deidre Valente, Robert Richter and Brian Jose, gave a short talk on a programme launched by the US State Department, ‘Centre Stage’, which brought artists from various countries together. The spokesperson of the US Consulate, Richard Silver, moderated the talk. Valente, who met some of Pakistani artists, spoke about the diversity of talent in Pakistan. She described singer Arieb Azhar as a “human ipod shuffle”.

US Consulate struggles to build bridges through musicn concert held at pak-american cultural centre

MONITORS REPORT JEDDAH

Governor of Tabuk, Prince Fahad bin Sultan bin Abdul Aziz, has said that Pakistan’s stability and prosperity is

very dear to Saudi Arabia leadership. He stated this during a meeting with

Pakistan Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Muhammad Naeem Khan.

They discussed issues relating to the Pakistani community in the Tabuk region‚ which include expedition of pending Diyat cases‚ labour issues‚ change of sponsorship and profes-sions of the Pakistani expatriates in the region.

MONITORS REPORTKUALA LUMPUR

A delegation of Islamabad Cham-ber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) led by its President Zafar Bakhtawari visited National

Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM) and had a meeting with Ali Al-Atas, President of NCCIM.

Zafar Bakhtawari invited President of National Chamber of Commerce and In-dustry of Malaysia to attend ASEAN Capi-tal Chambers Conference in Islamabad which would be organised by ICCI with the aim to promote mutually beneficial rela-tion between Pakistan and ASEAN mem-ber states.

ICCI President said that Pakistan pro-duces good quality and affordable agricul-tural product like Pakistani rice, wheat and mangoes that have great demand in Ma-laysian markets. He stressed that there is a dire need to increase export of Pakistani products to Malaysia which would also improve bilateral trade relations further

between the two countries.He said that Pakistan has free trade

agreement (FTA) with three countries that are Malaysia, China and Sri Lanka and Malaysia is the first Muslim country that has signed FTA with Pakistan which also reflects the importance of Malaysia for Pakistan. He further said that Malaysia should also help Pakistan in becoming full-dialogue partner in ASEAN regional bloc.

Bakhtawari called on the Malaysian business community to take advantage of the vast Pakistani market and explore in-vestment opportunities in agriculture, con-struction, livestock and dairy, energy, edu-cation, IT and the Halal industry sectors.

ICCI President was of the view that or-ganizing joint cultural events was an op-tion which could be used to bring the peo-ple of both nations closer to each other, as well as exploit untapped bilateral trade and investment potential in both countries.

Speaking on the occasion, Ali Al-Atas, President of National Chamber of Com-merce and Industry of Malaysia said that business community of Pakistan should

establish a base in Malaysia for attaining maximum trade benefits in ASEAN coun-tries that would not only help in boosting trade activities but also prove beneficial for introducing Pakistani products in ASEAN countries.

He said that Pakistani business com-munity to actively participate in interna-tional conventions scheduled to be held in Malaysia in forthcoming months and also urged Pakistani businessmen to be more participative in terms of business activi-ties in Malaysia to compete with other competitive markets. He also accepted the invitation of President of ICCI to attend ASEAN Capital Chambers Conference in Islamabad.

Mr Munawar Mughal, former Presi-dent and Chairman Expo Committee ICCI appreciated the organizers of Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) Expo and expressed the desire to hold such an expo in Pakistan as well which would provide the opportunity to businessmen of both the countries to showcase their prod-ucts.

MONITORS REPORTLAHORE

A high-level delegation of American cotton scien-tists visited Pakistan to review progress and plan

new strategies with Pakistani coun-terparts to fight the Cotton Leaf Curl Virus (CLCV), a devastating disease that affects cotton yields in Pakistan and caused the loss of an estimated 1.5 million bales or 15 per cent of this year’s total harvest.

The team visited labs in Lahore and Faisalabad and observed experimen-tal disease-resistant cotton breeds grown in greenhouses provided by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The visit, which held in last week, is part of a multi-year collaboration with Pakistani scientists to develop

cotton seed resistant to the CLCV. US and Pakistani cooperation of sci-entists on cotton is a prime example of the work the United States does to enhance the productivity of Paki-stan’s agricultural sector, especially for small farmers.

Dr Brian Scheffler USDA’s Lead Sci-entist in the Cotton Productivity En-hancement Programme (CPEP) was impressed with the progress that Paki-stani counterparts at the National Ag-riculture Research Institute (NARC), the University of Punjab Institute of Agricultural Sciences, the Central Cot-ton Institute in Multan and Sakarand and others had made. Pakistani sci-entists are painstakingly testing thou-sands of samples of cotton germ plasm to find a high-yielding cotton seed variety that provides protection from CLCV. Dr Scheffler said, “Pakistani re-searchers have made impressive pro-

gress in their work to combat this dev-astating agricultural disease. USDA is pleased to support efforts to reduce the impact of CLCV on Pakistan’s cot-ton crop and improve harvest yields for Pakistani farmers.

The USDA helps Pakistani scien-tists and farmers enhance agricultur-al productivity to improve livelihoods and meet Pakistan’s growing food se-curity needs.

This initiative is just one part of a comprehensive US economic growth assistance program which includes expanding irrigation by more than 200,000 acres near the Gomal Zam and Satpara Dams, constructing more than 1,000 km of roads to con-nect communities and facilitate trade; modernizing dairy farms in Punjab; and launching private equity invest-ment funds to help small and medium businesses grow.

‘Pakistan’s stability‚ prosperity dear to Saudi leadership’

Pakistan for increased trade with Malaysia in agri sector

Pak, US scientists work together to prevent cotton diseases

WB sets up ‘Centre of Excellence’ at PU

DA REPORT ISLAMABAD

The World Bank has established a ‘Centre of Excellence’ at the University of Punjab in Lahore to address the is-sue of management of land acquisition, resettlement and rehabilitation.

The centre of excellence will play an important role in address-ing the issues by supporting local capacity building and by facili-tating knowledge sharing within countries and across the region.

The centre is one of the three centres established by the World Bank in South Asia. The other two centres have been established in Bangladesh and India. Set up with funds provided by AusAID, these centres are as part of the Management of Land Acquisition, Resettlement and Rehabilitation (MLARR) programme in the re-gion. A fourth such centre is being developed at a university in Nepal.

The World Bank says that a significant bottleneck for infra-structure development in South Asia is the delay in land acquisi-tion and resettlement and rehabilitation of displaced communi-ties.

There is a significant dearth of trained professionals able to support governments and infrastructure companies in this area.

The MLARR programme has been supporting these institu-tions through course development and training with the aim of fostering more sustainable infrastructure delivery and socioeco-nomic growth across the region.

April 15-21, 2013

15

BUREAU REPORTPESHAWAR

In view of the growing relations between the Government of Pa-kistan and Malaysia and to promote

academic coop-eration between the educational in-stitutions of both the countries, University of Peshawar and Univer-siti Sains, Penang, agreed to carry out joint archaeologi-cal research in Pakistan and Malaysia.

The aim of the linkage would be to expand scholarly ties, fa-cilitate academic cooperation and to promote mutual understand-ing.

A formal Memorandum of Agree-ment was signed in this regard by Prof Dr Muhammad Rasul Jan, Vice-Chan-cellor University of Peshawar and Prof Ahmad Shukri Mustapa Kamal, acting Vice-Chancellor Universiti Sains Ma-laysia.

The MoA signing ceremony took place during the visit of Vice Chan-cellor to Malaysia. Prof Dr M Nasim Khan, Director Institute of Archaeol-ogy and Social Anthropology, Univer-sity of Peshawar and Prof Dr Mohd Mokhtar Saidin, Director Centre for

Global Archaeological Research, Uni-versity Sains Malaysia, were also pre-sent on the occasion.

Under the agreement the Institute of Archaeology and Social Anthropology

( U o P )

and the Centre for Global Archaeological Research Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) will jointly con-duct archaeological exploration and excavation in the Gandhara region of Pakistan and the Bujang Valley in Ma-laysia.

The collaboration is believed to be the first between both universities. The aim of the joint activities will be to share expertise, students’ exchanges and faculty for research, training and lectures, seminars, conferences and discussions that will mutually benefit both the institutions.

The joint venture program will start this year. The Malaysian team to be

headed by Prof Dr Mohd Mokhtar Sai-din will arrive in June to jointly sur-vey and excavate the earliest Shaiva shrine at Kashmir Smast (Mardan) and the Buddhist site of Aziz Dheri (Swabi).

Reciprocally, Prof Dr M Nasim Khan with his student will visit

Malaysia to conduct excavation of Sungai Batu, Bujang Valley site in

Kedah state of Malaysia.While explaining the historical

significance of the Gandhara region after the MoA signing ceremony, Vice Chancellor University of Peshawar,

Prof Dr Rasul Jan highlighted that the region is extremely rich in archaeological heritage and has

lot of potential for scholars and students of both institutes. This will deepen the research horizon with dif-ferent perspectives, he added.

Prof. Jan specifically mentioned the Hindu and Buddhist civilizations of ancient Gandhara and the contribu-tion made by the Department of ar-chaeology, University of Peshawar.

He pointed out that with the UoP’s experience and expertise, they can help USM in the Sungai Batu research and reciprocally the USM will help the University of Peshawar in scientific analysis. He said that the MoA would be a long term project between the two Universities that would be beneficial for both sides.

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

The phenomenon of Pakistan cricket and its achievements rouses keen interest in coun-tries where cricket as a game is

not really that big. Thirteen delegates belonging to Iraq,

Turkey, Mozambique and host nation Pa-kistan visited PCB Thursday to intimately acquaint themselves with Pakistan crick-et.

At the conclusion of the visit at the Na-tional Cricket Academy (NCA), the dele-gates were presented with shields by PCB chairman Chaudhry Zaka Ashraf while a group photo was also taken as a com-

memorative of the visit. The visit, undertaken on the request of

the Performance Audit Wing of Auditor General of Pakistan, was part of a five-week International Intensive Training Programme in Performance Auditing that commenced on March 19 and runs up to April 19 under the aegis of Audit and Ac-counts Training Institute, Lahore.

The PCB organised the presentation in two stages. First the delegates were taken to a round of the National Cricket Academy, its indoor school, gymnasium, the IT laboratory, the library and the mu-seum and also shown the activation of its post-modern Pro Batter Technology that is being introduced for the first time in the country.

UoP, Universiti Sains Malaysia ink pact on archeological sites

Foreign delegates visit PCB to acquaint with Pakistan cricket

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The second phase of the 7th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest organised by In-dus Motor Company con-

cluded at a grand event the other day.

During the event, over 2,000 en-tries from schools across Islamabad were displayed, highlighting the creativity and talent of the partici-pants. Besides a large number of schools, special children from vo-cational schools also participated in the nation-wide contest.

The 7th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest, the first of its kind in Paki-stan will be culminated in a series of three regional events with the first in Karachi, second in Islamabad and followed by a concluding event

in Lahore. Speaking on the occa-sion, Parvez Ghias, CEO, Indus Mo-tor Company, said that the TOYO-TA Dream Car Art Contest is a first of its kind activity in Pakistan, and added, “the purpose of the initiative is to engage children in the creative process of designing a car and at the same time, provide a platform to them where they free to explore their imagination through art by drawing a ‘Future Dream Car’.”

Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Hiroshi OE was the chief guest at the event. The senior management of Indus Motor Company was also present on the occasion. The con-test in Islamabad was judged by a panel of experts. The artworks will be sent to Toyota Motor Corpora-tion (TMC), Japan for inclusion in the World Art Contest that will take place later in the year in Japan.

MONITORS REPORTNEW DELHI

After launching visa on ar-rival facility for Pakistani senior citizens, India has initiated the process to pro-

vide the group tourist visa on a recip-rocal basis.

The group tourist visa was to be launched from March 15, but missed the deadline due to tension between the two countries after violation of ceasefire on the LoC.

A senior Indian Home Ministry of-ficial said, “The moment New Delhi gets the list of authorised tour opera-tors from Islamabad, the ‘group tour-ist’ visa would be launched. India has already identified 18 such tour/ travel operators on its side and shared it

with Pakistan.”According to the new liberalised

visa pact between the two countries, the group tourist visa would be of-fered for 30 days to tourists traveling in groups with not less than 10 mem-bers and not more than 50 members, organised by approved tour operators or travel agents.

MONITORS REPORTLAHORE

Turkish Ambassador to Is-lamabad, Babur Hizlan called on Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Syed

Munawar Hasan at Mansoora and discussed with him the international and regional situation besides the ties between the two brotherly countries.

Speaking on the occasion, the JI ameer said Turkey and Pakistan could play a leading role in the Muslim world

and they were in a position to achieve the goal of supremacy of Islam by unit-ing the Muslim world.

Syed Munawar Hasan said the world nations should promote the cul-ture of mutual respect and tolerance in order to strengthen world peace.

The Turkish envoy, speaking on the occasion, said that holding of the elec-tions in Pakistan on schedule implied success of the democratic system for which all the political parties includ-ing the Jamaat-e-Islami, deserved ap-plaud.

Hiroshi oE graces event as chief guest

Second phase of Toyota Dream Car Art Contest concludes

a step forward

India to offer group tourist visa to Pakistanis

Turkish envoy meets JI ameer

LAHORE: Jamaat-e-Islami leader Abdul Rashid Turabi presenting a gift to Ambassador of Turkey Mustafa Babur Hizlan. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

16

DA REPORT ISLAMABAD

A delegation of Nigerian businessmen based in Is-lamabad led by President Nigerian Community in

Pakistan, Francis Onyisi, visited Is-lamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) to further promote the cause of Nigeria in Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion President ICCI, Zafar Bakhtawari, said that Pakistan does consider the value of strengthening the trade and economic relations with Nigeria keeping in view the big market of Africa but unfortu-nately both countries have been fac-ing challenges which could be solved by devising a common strategy.

Referring to recently concluded D8 Summit, he said that both the sides need to make all out efforts to increase mutual cooperation for each other’s benefits. He said that D8 countries have large population which was over 1billion, therefore, we need now is to further activate D8 forum by strengthening our mu-tual cooperation, communication and take initiative through exchange of expertise, knowledge and transfer of technology.

President ICCI also emphasized on singing of Free Trade agreement among all the member countries of D8 organization that would ultimate-ly enhance the level of economic and commercial cooperation among these Muslim countries.

Nigeria keen to enhance trade ties with Pakistan

DA REPORT RAWALPINDI

Chief of Army Staff Gen Ash-faq Parvez Kayani visited Bajaur and Swat in connec-tion with inauguration of

projects completed under UAE Paki-stan Assistance Programme (UPAP).

COAS inaugurated Technical Col-lege at Khar, Bajaur. The college will provide diploma level technical education for upto 450 students in various disciplines of Engineering including electrical, mechanical, civil and mining. Pakistan Army engineers have completed the project at the cost

of Rs 266.2 million in less than two years.

Later, COAS went to Shamozai, Swat for the inauguration of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Bridge at the site of the old Shamozai Bridge. Almost two million people of Swat will be facilitated by the construction of this bridge. This project was com-pleted by Frontier Works Organiza-tion at the cost of Rs 897.4 million in one and a half year.

Talking on the occasion, COAS ap-preciated the quality of the work done and expressed thanks – on behalf of the Government of Pakistan – to the Gov-ernment and people of UAE for their

support in carrying out critically needed development work in the terrorism af-fected areas of FATA and Swat.

He expressed hope that such pro-jects will alleviate the hardships faced by people of the area and help root out terrorism by providing education and economic opportunities to the youth.

Earlier, on arrival, COAS was re-ceived by Lieutenant General Khalid Rabbani, Commander Peshawar Corps.

Ambassador of UAE to Pakistan, His Excellency Essa Abdulla Albasha Al-Noaimi and Director UPAP, Mr Abdullah Al Ghefeli were also present at the occasion.


Karachi Chamber of Com-merce & Industry’s delega-tion headed by Zubair Moti-wala, Chairman of Sindh

Board of Investment and President of Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Ex-Pres-ident KCCI, visited met High Commis-sioner of India to Pakistan, Sharat Sabharwal, during his visit to Karachi.

The delegation comprised Tahir Khaliq, Vice Chairman Businessmen Group & Former President KCCI, Muhammad Haroon Agar, President KCCI. Sharat Sabharwal, High Com-missioner of India to Pakistan while exchanging views on Indo-Pak bilat-eral trade liberalization stated that both sides have to walk the last mile. He conversed that Indo Pak dialogues during last two years were satisfactory and subsequent developments will be beneficial for two countries.

After ratification by Indo-Pak Gov-ernments, new liberalized visa regime has been applied. He was of the view that number of 137 items presently allowed to import from Indian via land route from Wagah should be en-

hanced.He recognised the vibrant role of

Karachi Chamber of Commerce & In-dustry in socio-economic progress of Pakistan and to provide proposals for Indo-Pak trade enhancement. He expected to further forge cooperation between KCCI and Indian High Com-mission on trade affairs. He endorsed the support of the business communi-ties of two countries to cooperate and push the two governments to move forward.

Exchanging views on Indo-Pak bi-lateral trade and relations with the Indian High Commissioner, Zubair Motiwala appreciated the positive moves by the Indo-Pak Governments

for strengthening commercial and eco-nomic ties during last several years.

He was of the opinion that the Indo-Pak reciprocal trade should be equally beneficial for the business communi-ties of two countries. He also recog-nized the efforts of Indian High Com-missioner to promote bilateral trade between two bordering countries.

He hoped that “negative list” will be dismantled and Pakistan will ac-cord MFN status to India soon. He was of the view that opening Indo-Pak cross-border trade from Khokrapar-Monabao Route on the pattern of Wa-gah-Attari will facilitate the business community of Sindh and Balochistan province.

Sabharwal stresses need for enhancing Pak-India trade ties

Kayani inaugurates UAE-funded projects

April 15-21, 2013

17

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

The West Indies Crick-et Board (WICB) has brushed aside media reports suggesting that

Pakistan’s tour of the Caribbean this year is in jeopardy.

A WICB statement released Monday says the board remains optimistic that the tour will take place in July as planned and says negotiations are still being held to finalize plans.

A report in CRICINO said the tour is unlikely to take place after the WICB and the Pakistan Crick-et Board (PCB) failed to find a new window.

“In light of recent media reports emanating from the Asian sub-continent, the West Indies Cricket Board wishes to advise the media and the public that negotiations with the Pakistan Cricket Board are ongoing with regard to final-ising the schedule for the West Indies vs Pakistan series to be held in the Caribbean in July,” the statement said.

“The WICB remains optimistic that the tour will proceed once arrangements are concluded, and further, the WICB look forward to the much anticipated visit of the Pakistan cricket team as indeed all cricket-loving fans of the Car-ibbean do”.

According to the FTP (Future Tours Programme), West Indies was scheduled to host Pakistan from the last week in June to the last week in July, but a tri-series involving India, Sri Lanka and West Indies have since been planned.

Pakistan was originally sched-

uled to play two Tests, five ODIs and two Twenty20s.

To avoid a clash, the WICB is reported to have asked the PCB to reschedule its tour to August but this change would have interfered with Pakistan’s own plan to host India and to play out the Zimba-bwe series that was postponed last year.

Also, the inaugural Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is sched-uled to take place from July 29 to August 26.

“The WICB wishes to assure the players, the fans and the wider public that it views in the high-est regard its ICC Future Tours Programme commitments (which includes the Pakistan tour of the Caribbean) and will fulfill all such commitments to the mutual con-venience of the players and teams involved and for the benefit and enjoyment of fans,“ the statement said.

“Once all arrangements are fi-nalized they will be announced to the media and public in the usual manner and at the earliest oppor-tunity”.

BUREAU REPORT KARACHI

Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Com-merce and Industry is keen to hold a single-country exhibition in Moscow and will send a high-level trade delega-

tion there to provide opportunities to Pakistani exporters to expand the volume of the country’s exports to Russia.

This was stated by Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Zubair Ahmed Malik at a meeting with Trade Representative of the Russian Federation, Yury Kozlov. The Russian representative paid a courtesy call on Ahmed along with his four member team. The FPCCI president said Russia is a great potential market for Pakistani products which needs to be explored sufficiently. Both the

sides exchanged views on the bilateral economic relations. They were not satisfied with the present volume of trade which they said does not reflect a true picture of the 50-year friendship between the two countries.

Malik re-affirmed, “Russia will be our potential market during the current year and FPCCI will use all its resources to penetrate the Russian market.”

He emphasised that the national Chambers of both countries should intensify their interaction and activate the Pakistan-Russia Joint Business Council formed by both National Chambers for exploring the market potentials. Malik also sug-gested Russian Representative to play an in-strumental role in organising a Pak-Russia Joint Business Council meeting at the earliest for the private sector of both the countries. He said fur-ther that both the business communities could formulate necessary recommendations for the

promotion of bilateral trade and the same could be presented in the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), he said.

Malik said that the current volume of bilateral trade between the two countries is $542 million which is in favour of Pakistan, but does not match in any way with the potentials of the two countries. Malik also emphasised the need for joint venture investment in various fields, particularly in power sector projects, exploration of coal and other min-eral resources, hydroelectric power, ship-building, high-tech machinery, infrastructure, transport, iron and steel and railways, construction.

He suggested that both countries should join hands in economic activities without any exter-nal pressure. Pakistan Steel Mills is a symbol of friendship between the two countries but after its establishment no more mega project has been un-dertaken by Russia in Pakistan.

WICB working to finalise Pakistan tour schedule

FPCCI keen to hold single country exhibition in Moscow

Extension likely for Indian envoy

MONITORS REPORTNEW DELHI

The Indian government is likely to give a second extension to Indian High Commissioner in

Islamabad, till the formation of a new government in Pakistan.

Sharat Sabharwal, a 1975 batch IFS officer, has been the Indian Envoy to Pakistan since March 2009. Following his superannuation, he was on exten-sion from October 2012 till the end of April this year.

According to a foreign news web-site, Sabharwal is likely to get an extension after his term ends this month, so that there is continuity till the new government is sworn in. But, this extension will be much shorter than his previous one.

BUREAU REPORT LAHORE

A delegation of hundreds of Sikh pilgrims from India arrived in Pakistan the other day to par-

ticipate in the Baisakhi festival and visit several historic gurdwaras.

Officials of the Evacuee Trust Property Board and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee greeted the pilgrims when they ar-rived by a special train at Wagah railway station.

Special banners with messages of welcome in English and Hindi were put up by authorities.

ETPB Deputy Secretary Fraz Ab-bas was cited by a news agency that 1,100 ‘yatris’ had arrived in the spe-cial train. The main Baisakhi festi-val will be held at Gurdwara Hasan Abdal in Rawalpindi district.

Abbas said strict security meas-ures had been put in place for the pilgrims and paramilitary Pakistan Rangers had been deployed to pro-tect them.

During their 10-day stay in Paki-stan, the yatris will visit Gurdwara Janamsthan in Nankana Sahib, Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, Gurdwara Punja Sahib and Gurd-wara Sacha Soda in Farooqabad, he said.

Sikh pilgrims arrive in Pakistan for Baisakhi festival

KARACHI: Sindh Caretaker Chief Minister, Justice (retd) Zahid Qurban and US Consul General Mi-chael J Dodman posing for a group photo with others. DA Desk

KARACHI: Sindh Caretaker Chief Minister, Justice (retd) Zahid Qurban talking to US Consul General Michael J Dodman during a meeting at CM House. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

18

MONITORS REPORTKARACHI

For the sake of their love and loyalty to the motherland, the 750 million Pakistanis living abroad should be allowed to

contest elections to the federal and provincial legislatures in Pakistan.

This demand was made by Asian Canadian Association (ACA) Presi-dent, Khalid Mehmood, while talking to the media at Karachi Press Club. “To ensure progress and prosper-ity of the country, overseas Pakistanis must be inducted into the political and economic life of the country,” he said. “They have the requisite capital and advanced technical and scientific know-how to make Pakistan a pros-perous, progressive state.”

Overseas Pakistanis were remitting $12 billion to Pakistan annually, which was the largest source of foreign ex-change for the exchequer, he added.

What would happen if there was a clash of interests or a conflict between the original and adopted homelands of these expatriate Pakistanis? Mehmood named some countries where aliens were allowed to take part in politics.

For another questioner who re-called that an “imported prime min-ister” had allegedly walked away with Rs28 billion, he had a simple solution: “Don’t award portfolios like premier-ship, finance ministry or defence min-istry to expatriate Pakistanis.”

Pakistan, he said, was a country en-dowed with precious natural resourc-es and a highly skilled population im-bued with ingenuity. But on account

of “dishonest, corrupt and inefficient” people occupying top slots in each and every walk of life, the people of Paki-stan had suffered tremendously, he added.

“Holders of bogus degrees can never have the capability to solve the mass-es’ problems,” he said.

The ACA president cited the exam-ples of China and Switzerland, where overseas Chinese and Swiss had made “tremendous” contributions to the prosperity and progress of their moth-erlands.

“Had the overseas Pakistanis been inducted into the interim government, not only would foreign exchange have flowed into the country, there would have been a lot of investment in all spheres of industry, both manufactur-ing and services,” he claimed.

Call to allow overseas Pakistanis in legislatures

MONITORS REPORTCOLOMBO

A 19-member delegation from the National Defence University (NDU), comprising senior officers from Pakistan’s Armed Forces and Civil Services, and officers from USA, UAE and China, who are under-

going National Security and War Course at NDU, visited Sri Lanka.

The delegation was led by Commodore Asif Saleem, SI(M). Pakistan Defence Advisor to Sri Lanka Col Sheharyar Parvez Butt is conducting the visit for the delegation.

The one week visit which started on April 7 aims to enable the delegates to develop comprehensive understanding of the defence, economic, domestic and foreign policies of Sri Lanka and to explore areas of mutual interest for enhancing mutual cooperation in various spheres.

During the visit, the delegation will interact with a number of prominent personalities from the Sri Lankan Armed Forces and civil institutions including Chief of Defence Staff, Governor Central Bank, Commanders of Army, Air Force, Navy and Sec-retary Defence.

The NDU is the premier institution of Pakistan, catering for the needs of senior leadership from various segments of socie-ty, both domestic and international, in comprehending security issues and policy/ strategy formulation.

The NDU is a centre of excellence in academic and research pursuits in diversified disciplines providing well thought out in-puts on national security at strategic level. The University imparts higher education in policy and strategy formulation at various tiers with emphasis on national security and defence, and acts as a national think tank.

The National Security and War Course at NDU covers es-sentials of both national and military policy and strategy. The course brings rich experience of participants from divergent backgrounds and countries to add value to the process of learning in addition to creating increased interaction and un-derstanding.

Friendly countries nominate officers from different services background for the programme.

The graduates of the course are assigned higher com-mand and staff appointments dealing with national se-curity as well as military and operational strategies in a joint-governmental and international environment. Sev-eral senior Sri Lankan officers from Armed Forces have been attending courses at the National Defence University annually since 1993.

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

The USAID Teacher Edu-cation Project organised a National Curriculum Design Workshop here at

a local hotel the other day.The workshop has brought to-

gether the faculty of leading univer-sities to develop syllabi and teach-ing notes for the fourth and final year of B.Ed. (Hons.) Elementary. Renowned international expert and curriculum advisor Prof. Frances Schoonmaker also conducted a ses-sion focusing on models and trends of curriculum development.

The faculty of leading universi-ties of the country worked together to develop the syllabi and teach-ing notes for the fourth and final year of B.Ed. (Hons.) Elementary. The workshop is part of a series of events being held to finalize course designs. It is an endeavor to coor-dinate national and international efforts to boost curriculum devel-opment efforts in the country. Both national and international curricu-lum advisors reviewed the course materials and finalized the course to be presented to the National Cur-riculum Review Committee (NCRC) after the workshop.

Faculty members from the fol-lowing universities attended the workshop i.e: University of The Punjab– IER, Lahore, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, SBK Women University, Quetta, University of Education, Lahore, University of Sargodha, University of Gujrat, Ba-

hauddin Zakrya University, Multan, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, University of Kara-chi, University of Peshawar, IER, University of Hazara, University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad.

This workshop is part of a larger $75 million USAID Teacher Edu-cation Project. USAID is working closely with the Government of Pa-kistan to develop and implement in-novative curricula for two recently launched degree programs: a four-year Bachelors Degree in Education (B.Ed.) and a two-year Associate Degree in Education (ADE).

USAID will further strengthen the education sector in Pakistan with the upcoming USAID basic education program. It seeks to bring 3.2 million children to reading at or above grade level over the next five years by improving instructional quality and strengthening educa-tion systems. USAID is aiming to increase the number of children learning to read by: transforming the way teachers teach; promoting active community involvement in school governance; reforming gov-ernment institutions; and promot-ing public-private partnerships.

NDU delegation visits Sri Lanka

USAID organises curriculum workshop

Courtesy call on Secy DefenceMONITORS REPORT

COLOMBO

The Pakistan National Defence University (NDU) del-egation, led by Commodore Asif Saleem Chaudhry, paid a courtesy call on Secretary Defence and Urban

Development Mr Gotabaya Rajapaksa.The delegation comprised of senior officers from Paki-

stan's armed forces and as well as officers from USA, UAE and China, who are undergoing National Security and War Course at the NDU.

During the meeting, the delegation had cordial discus-sions with the Secretary Defence. Mementoes were also ex-changed to mark the occasion.

ISLAMABAD: European Union Election Observation Mission, Chief Observer Michael Gahler along with other delegates called on Caretaker Prime Minister Justice (retd) Mir Hazar Khan Khoso at PM Secretariat. DA

April 15-21, 2013

19

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

European Union will deploy an Election Observation Mission constituting 11 ex-perts, 52 long-term observ-

ers and 46 short-term observers to monitor the May 11 elections.

The announcement was made by Chief Observer of the mission, a Ger-man Member of the European Parlia-ment, Michael Gahler, in a press con-ference.

The mission, established after invitation from the Ministry of For-eign Affairs, will cover pre-election preparations, election day including polling, counting and tabulation of results, and post-election day activi-ties. It will also assess the extent to which the election process complies with Pakistan’s laws and the interna-tional commitments signed up to by Pakistan, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The observers will be active in three provinces including Punjab, Sindh and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa as well as Islamabad. “While we would like to be in all parts of the country, we cannot be. This is partly because we have limited numbers and partly because of security reasons. It is with regret that I must say that we there-fore are not able to have observers in important parts of the country such as Fata and Balochistan but we will still follow events in these areas,”

said Michael Gahler who also led the observation mission in the year 2008.

EU uses a comprehensive obser-vation methodology developed over more than 100 election observation missions in more than 50 countries since 2000. The mission will meet electoral and government officials; candidates and representatives from political parties; and members of civil society and the media, among other stakeholders. It will analyse the legal framework, the work of the election administration, campaign activities, conduct of the media, voting, count-ing, the announcement of the results, and how electoral disputes are re-solved.

The mission will issue a prelimi-nary statement shortly after the elec-tion. A final report, with recommen-dations for future elections, will be issued approximately two months later. The EU previously deployed election observation missions to Pa-

kistan in 2002 and in 2008.“It will have a core team of 11 ex-

perts. This includes my deputy, who was also my deputy in 2008, analysts who cover the election administra-tion, the legal framework, the politi-cal situation, the media, and a human rights expert who will focus on the participation of women and other dis-advantaged groups,” he said.

He said that the mission will be neutral and independent from any EU institution including the EU Del-egation to Pakistan and EU Member States’ Embassies in the country. The long-term observers are due to arrive this week and will then be deployed in pairs to different parts of the country to observe the ground reality whereas short term observers will be deployed for a week or so around election day.

The mission will deploy 52 long-term observers to different parts of Pakistan depending on security con-ditions. Towards election day, the

number of observers will increase to 110 from 26 EU Member States as well as Norway, Switzerland and Canada. A delegation from the Euro-pean Parliament and observers from EU Embassies in Pakistan will further reinforce the mission closer to elec-tion day.

“These elections are important pri-marily for the people of Pakistan of course but in addition to that it is im-portant for all of us who have an inter-est in Pakistan and democracy. As we all know these elections are historic in being the first to take place after a civilian government and parlia-ment have completed their full terms. This is an opportunity for Pakistan to deepen its democratic practices and structures, to develop good govern-ance to the benefit of the people of Pa-kistan and beyond,” said Gahler.

He said last EU mission in 2008 made 83 recommendations for re-form. “The EU then offered program-matic support for their implementa-tion. This support for electoral reform was offered to parliament, the Elec-tion Commission of Pakistan, the me-dia and civil society.”

He said that for this electoral pro-cess, EU was invited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan. Before the EU made a decision to deploy, an Exploratory Mission came to see: if there were sufficient conditions for us to observe, if there was cross-party interest in us observing, and if there was a potential added value to

us coming.“Our colleagues in Brussels were

encouraged by the strong interest of Pakistani interlocutors in the EU hav-ing a mission and of course in the im-portance of these elections as part of Pakistan’s democratic growth. Thus a decision to deploy this mission was made by Catherine Ashton, High Rep-resentative of the European Union for Foreign and Security Policy.”

Gahler said that the EU Mission is committed to the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation which is a document that really defines professional standards involved in credible international election observation.

“Positively there is also an equiva-lent document for citizen observer groups that came into being last year, which we hope that Pakistani civil society organisations observing these elections will adhere to.”

Gahler avoided giving any com-ment on the present situation of elec-tion preparations. “We are not in a position to talk about the electoral situation in Pakistan right now as we have only just arrived. We first need to see what is going on and then to analyse so that we can give a reliable balanced assessment. We would be speaking in ignorance if we gave com-ment now,” he said.

The mission will hold a press con-ference two days after election day where it will issue a preliminary statement.

EU to deploy ‘election observation mission’

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Political officer of the US Em-bassy, Ms Mayra Alverato, called on Dr Shahzad Wa-seem at his residence in Is-

lamabad to discuss the political sce-nario and PTI role in the upcoming elections.

Dr Shahzad Waseem said that un-der the leadership of Imran Khan Pa-kistan Tehreek-e-Insaf will sweep the general elections as winds of change are blowing across the country. Paki-stani youth, women and silent major-ity of the country is going to actively participate in upcoming elections in favor of PTI.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf manifesto is a true reflection of the aspirations of

the people of Pakistan and supported by the policy work done by profes-sionals in PTI. PTI policies are based on targeting the change in system rather than the faces.PTI is working to strengthen the institutions of the country which can ensure transpar-ency and better service delivery to the people and liberate them from

the corrupt mighty elite. PTI is deter-mined to root out corruption from the system and ensure justice for all and establish a true culture of merit. Pa-kistan Tehreek-e-Insaf is determined for friendly and cordial relations with other countries and work for the peace with in the country and also in the re-gion.

US political officer meets PTI leader

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Federal Minister for Education and Training, Dr Sania Nishtar in a meeting with the representatives of UNESCO, UNICEF and other UN agencies. DA Desk

President shocked at Iran quake casualties

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

President Asif Ali Zardari has ex-pressed grief and sorrow over the loss of lives in the earthquake

in Iran, state media said the other day.“People of Pakistan are standing

shoulder to shoulder with their Iranian brothers in this hour of trial,” President Zardari said, Radio Pakistan reported. A magnitude 6.1 earthquake killed at least 37 and injured hundreds more in a sparsely populated area in southern Iran on Tuesday, Iranian officials said.

The report said the earthquake struck the town of Kaki, 60 miles (96km) south-east of Bushehr on the Persian Gulf.

Formation commanders briefed about upcoming polls

DA REPORTRAWALPINDI

The 70th Formation Com-manders’ Conference, headed by Chief of Army

Staff Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, was held in Rawalpindi, wherein it was decided that proper prepa-rations for fair and free elections in peaceful atmosphere would be made.

The half yearly conference was attended by Corps Commanders, Principal Staff Officers and all For-mation Commanders, says a press release issued by the ISPR.

The forum was given compre-hensive briefings on external and internal security environment and professional matters. Plans to pro-vide security during May elections as asked by the Election Commis-sion of Pakistan (ECP) were also discussed and deliberated.

It was also decided in the meet-ing that the interim government would be provided comprehensive security for peaceful transfer of power to winning party.

According to sources, profes-sional skills of the army and its op-erational arrangements were also reviewed in the meeting.

April 15-21, 2013

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DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Pakistan has handed over the newly constructed Li-aquat Ali Khan Engineer-ing University at Balkh to

Afghanistan, says a press release received from Kabul here the other day.

The ceremony was attended by the Pakistan Ambassador to Af-ghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, Gov-ernor of Balkh, Atta Mohammad Noor, Higher Education Minister, Dr Obaidullah Obaid, prominent educationists and notables of the area.

Speaking on the occasion, Am-bassador Sadiq said that the Engi-

neering University was constructed by Pakistan at the cost of US$18 million which would tremendously contribute towards the educational development of Afghanistan. He said that Pakistan would continue to assist Afghanistan in the devel-opment of education and health in-frastructure. The ambassador also highlighted the projects built by Pa-

kistan in the health and education sectors in Afghanistan particularly the construction of Allama Iqbal Arts Faculty in University of Kabul, Jinnah Hospital in Kabul, Nishtar Kidney Center in Jalalabad, Jalal-abad-Torkham Road and the provi-sion of three thousand scholarships for the Afghan students.

Governor of Balkh Atta Moham-

mad Noor also spoke on the occa-sion and deeply thanked Pakistan for the construction of the univer-sity. Higher Education Minister, Dr Obaidullah Obaid was also appre-ciative of Pakistan’s assistance in the execution of this mega project.

Later, Sadiq handed the key of the University over to its Chancel-lor, Mokamal Alokozai.

Pakistan hands over newly built varsity to Afghanistan

MONITORS REPORTSIALKOT

Led by Cultural Consulate of Iran in Pakistan Dr Taqi Sadiq, an Iranian delegation visited the 148 years old Iqbal Manzil, the birthplace of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Poet of the

East, here on Wednesday.On the occasion, the delegation head said that the

teachings of Allama Iqbal are like a beacon of light to maintain tolerance, peace and stability in the society.

He said that the national youth should transform themselves into Iqbal’s ‘Mard-e-Momin’ and strive for self-reliance within own resources and emphasised austerity envisioned by Allama Iqbal.

He stressed that Pakistan can only be redeemed through emulation of Iqbal’s vision on democracy, human excellence and self reliance as perpetual rule

of dictators weakened the national institutions, es-pecially democracy. He further said that Allama Mu-hammad Iqbal was one of the great men of Islam and Pakistan, where he dreamt that brotherhood, social and economic justice would prevail.

“We must create a society according to the vision of the great poet, who gave the idea of separate home-land for the Muslims of the sub-continent where they can practice their Islamic values and culture,” he urged. “Iqbal’s philosophical and human approach to save the Muslims from degradation, deprivation and destitute living is still a source of strength and guid-ance for us.”

Dr Taqi said that the nation owed freedom and in-dependence to the vision of the great visionary Allama Muhammad Iqbal and the best way to pay tributes to Iqbal was to understand his message and imbibe his teachings.

Envoy urges youth to follow Iqbal’s teachings

Zardari praises Saudi king’s proclamation

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

President Asif Ali Zardari has lauded the decision of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia of allowing a grace period of three months to the expatriate workers including Pakistanis for correcting their labour status

in accordance with the new labour laws of the Kingdom. The president, in a letter to the Custodian of the Two Holy

Mosques, expressed appreciation for the generous announce-ment that granted a grace period of three months during which expatriate workers, including Pakistanis, could correct their resident/ labour status in accordance with the new labour laws of the kingdom. The president hoped that King Abdullah would show further flexibility towards the Pakistani community, which he said, was positively contributing to the Saudi economy. The president assured the Saudi King of Pakistani community’s com-plete cooperation in abiding by the Saudi labour laws.

British diplomat, Sethi discuss bilateral ties

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

British

High Com-m i s s i o n e r Adam Thom-son met Chief Minister Najam Sethi at CM Sec-retariat Wednesday and discussed with him bilateral matters.

Talking to Thomson, Sethi said the UK is an important trade partner of Pakistan and the two countries enjoy cordial relations. He said that the cooperation of UK in various sectors, particularly education is laudable. The CM emphasised need for adopting solid measures for enhancing bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries. The British diplomat said his country gives mush importance to relations with Pakistan. Also, the chief minister issued directives to mull over the introduction of computerised token system in place of receipt for the convenience of the patients in the government hospitals. He directed the Health Department should take necessary steps to launch computerised token system that will rid the people of long stay in queue and other problems in the way of getting prompt medical treatment.

Workshop held on operatic singing

MONITORS REPORTKARACHI

New England Foundation for the Arts at Boston, USA, Development Manager, Sarah Long Holland con-ducted a workshop on operatic

singing at the National Academy of Perform-ing Arts (Napa).

In her lecture, Holland highlighted the role of theatrical talent alongside the voice and ap-titude for becoming a successful opera star. She also highlighted the indispensable im-portance of make-up and stage lighting while staging an opera.

She sang three pieces: an aria (a long ac-companied song for a solo voice in an opera or oratorio) from the opera Tosca by Puccini, and from two American operas, Susannah by Carlyle Floyd, and Porgy and Bess by Gersh-win. She also demonstrated the technique of transiting from the lowest to the highest note and highlighted the role of the vocal cords and manoeuvring of the diaphragm while singing for opera. She also demonstrated breathing techniques to induce stamina for singing long pieces.

The workshop ended with an engaging question-and-answer session.

Dubai Islamic Bank reports Rs 501m profit

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

Dubai Islamic Bank Pa-kistan Limited has re-ported a year-end profit before tax of Rs501 mil-

lion. Furthermore, a 38 per cent deposit growth was achieved in comparison to 2011, taking total deposits to Rs53.11 billion in 2012.

The BoD of Bank held a meeting to approve its financial statements for the year ended Dec 31, 2012. A press release said that on the asset side, DIBPL’s asset base rose by 32% in contrast to 2011 increasing the asset base to Rs63.5 billion in 2012. The Bank’s investments grew substantially by 65 per cent over the year, taking total investments to Rs21.33 billion.

DIBPL opened 25 new branches in 2012, increasing the total branch network to 100 in 35 cities. In ad-dition, the Bank also established 15 Branchless Banking Booth mainly based to cater to growing remit-tance segment that require easy, safe and convenient access. The Bank added over 20,000 more cus-tomers in 2012, taking full custom-er base to over 100,000.

DIBPL intends to keep the mo-mentum going for 2013 as well, aiming to take the branch network to 125 branches along with open-ing 40 Branchless Banking Booths. This would enable an overall foot-print of 165 outlets in 40 cities na-tionwide.

ISLAMABAD: Prominent opera singer Sarah Long Holland performing at Hunerkada College of Visual and Performing Arts organized by US Embassy. DA

April 15-21, 2013

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DA REPORT ISLAMABAD

A US Embassy diplomat has denied that a delegation of US Congressmen will soon be visiting Pakistan to meet

meet Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf. A news release issued the other

day siad “this is completely false, and I regret that the author of this piece did not contact anyone in the US Mission to verify this information,” the dip-lomat said with reference to a report published in a national daily a few

days back.

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

Malaysian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Hasral Sani Bin Mujtabar has said that Pakistan has a wid-

er range of quality tourist destinations than Malaysia but lack of organisation and planning coupled with media’s propagation of bad state of law and or-der is not letting this industry prosper.

Speaking at a Meet the Press pro-gramme at the Lahore Press Club, he said that tourism is the second largest industry of Malaysia because extreme care is taken regarding the law and order situation and the image of the country is promoted in the media.

He said that Malaysia spends exces-sively in the publicity of their tourism intelligently which has reaped these results and Pakistan needs to follow the same course.

He mentioned that out of all the countries in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Malaysia is Pakistan’s largest trading partner and the trade between the two countries can improve with better safety nets and greater interaction between the businessmen, he added. Talking about visa policy between the two countries, he said it has been a conservative poli-cy when it comes to Pakistan.

‘No US delegation meeting Musharraf ’

Seeing wide range of tourist resorts

Malaysian envoy stresses promotion of tourism

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Hiroshi OE at-tended the 10th Degree Awarding Ceremony of

Hamdard University Islamabad Campus (HUIC) held at the audito-rium of International Islamic Uni-versity the other day.

About 200 graduating students received their degrees. In a Degree Awarding Ceremony earlier, 182 students were graduated.

Hiroshi OE, Ambassador of Ja-pan, said, “We are working on strengthening political, economic and cultural relations between the two countries. As education is a matter close to the heart of Japa-nese people; we are also working on academic exchanges in order to further support the long-standing

friendly relationship between the governments and people of Paki-stan and Japan.”

The Japan government has re-cently invited five Pakistani uni-versity students and one supervi-sor to visit Japan. And as primary education is a of vital importance for strengthening of a country, the Japan government has decided to extend financial support of Rs 11.45 million to CARE Foundation for the construction of a school in Village Piara, Sheikhupura,” he said.

The ambassador said that we be-lieve that a strong political nation is in the interest of the whole world and, therefore, we are in favour of a free and fair election. In order to achieve these objectives, the Japan government has extended a grant of approximately 2 million dollars to Pakistan through the UNDP to support the electoral process. The

grant will fund the polling staff training, development of elections results management, voter educa-tion and public outreach.

Through these activities, we aim to strengthen capacity of the Elec-tion Commission of Pakistan and to enhance participation of the general public in the elections, in-cluding women and the youth. A polio-free Pakistan is of cardinal importance to the People of Japan; and it is heartening to acknowl-edge that Japan has provided grant assistance for polio eradication through Unicef. These efforts have accumulated approximately 91 mil-lion dollars.

In addition to that, in 2011, Japan renewed its commitment to this endeavour by providing a soft loan of approximately 65 million dollars in order to make Pakistan a “polio-fee” country.”

Hamdard University convocation

Steps afoot to strengthen political, economic, cultural bilateral ties: envoy

ISLAMABAD: Federal Information Minister Arif Nizami in a group photo with the officials of Press Information Depart-ment. DA Desk

Pak envoys asked to work for trade promotion

BUREAU REPORTLAHORE

The business community has urged the ambassa-dors of Pakistan to work selflessly for exchange

of trade delegations between Pa-kistan and the country they are posted in.

They said that single country ex-hibitions and catalogue shows are proven tools to enhance bilateral trade.

Ambassador to Thailand Sohail Khan, Ambassador to Uzbekistan Riaz Hussain Bukhari and Ambas-sador designate to Cambodia Am-jad Ali Sher visited the LCCI and had a detailed meeting with the

LCCI members and identified areas of mutual cooperation.

LCCI President Farooq Iftikhar, talking to them, said that if Paki-stan’s diplomatic corps play its role proactively, it is not only the exports that would register a quan-tum jump but would also be instru-mental in promoting the soft image of the country.

He said that almost all Ambas-sadors that visit Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry show keen interest in promoting the products made in their respective countries and offer assistance to improve imports from their coun-try while Pakistani Ambassadors rarely visit business associations of the country they are posted in.

Envoy holds Saudi nationals get-togetherDA REPORT ISLAMABAD

Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Pa-

kistan, Mr Abdul Aziz bin Ibrahim Al-Ghadeer organised a monthly get-

together of the Saudi nationals resid-ing in Pakistan.

Staff of the embassy and affiliated offices, students of Saudi School, and other institutions in Pakistan in addi-tion to Saudi professors in Interna-

tional Islamic University in Islama-bad attended the event.

During the ceremony, held in the Saudi House in Islamabad, students of Saudi School participated in cul-tural and literary presentations.

April 15-21, 2013

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DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Pakistan and Bulgaria should expand and strengthen their bilateral relations in various fields including economy,

trade, culture and education, a diplo-mat said.

The two countries should expand political consultations while Pakistan can make use of Bulgaria’s solid experi-ence in coal power generation to exploit Thar Coal, said Daniel Hristov, Head of Consular Department, Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Talking to Senior Vice Chairman of Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers’ As-sociation (PVMA) Atif Ikram Sheikh, he said that we needs to promote eco-nomic ties and expand bilateral trade and investment.

We should also strive to enhance links between state-run as well as pri-

vate educational institutions; he said adding that my country fully supports Pakistan to get EU trade concessions to improve its economy that has suffered to ensure world’s peace.

Daniel Hristov said that Bulgaria has rich experience in generating coal en-ergy and can share its experience with Pakistan to overcome energy crisis and ensure economic revival.

The diplomat said that Thar Coal is better than lignite coal being used for power generation in many countries. The global share of coal in power gen-eration is 37 per cent while it is 45 per

cent in Asia which projected to go up to 60 per cent in 2020, he informed. Many Bulgarian companies are willing to in-vest in Pakistan, he said.

At the occasion, Atif Ikram Sheikh lauded the offer of Bulgaria to play pos-itive role in Pakistan’s development. Trade relations and economic ties be-tween our two countries would grow further in the years to come, he said.

He said that world is witnessing a shift back to the use of coal. Thar Coal is suitable for electric power generation, cement, sugar and steel industries.

Atif Ikram Sheikh said that Sindh government must simplify procedures and encourage environment for private investments which can help Pakistan attain energy security for centuries.

Pakistan can export textiles, surgi-cal, leather and sports goods and rice and import batteries and transformers, sulphates, synthetic fibres, sunflower, rapeseeds and antibiotics.

Many Bulgarian firms willing to invest in Pakistan

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

The US Embassy gathered over 400 students from four countries to bolster people-to-people ties, as

it opened the International Young Alumni Conference.

It was a gathering of more than 400 alumni of US exchange pro-grammes from Pakistan, Afghani-stan, India, and the United States.

The conference is one of the largest US government-sponsored young alumni gatherings in Pakistan.

The theme, “The Faces of Change, the Changes We Face,” is meant to inspire students to make positive changes in their commu-nities and equip them with tools to make those changes. The stu-dents from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India are all alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs.

Int’l young alumni moot brings 4 countries’ 400 students

DA REPORTRAWALPINDI

Ambassador of Sudan Al Shafie Ahmed Mohammad has said that Pakistan has favourable environment for

investment and Sudan is keen to en-hance trade relations with Pakistan. Muslims countries must develop a bloc like European Union and others to provide a platform for the Muslim Ummah to establish their economies.

He said that Rawalpindi Chamber will be provided every assistance by the Embassy to organize single coun-try in Sudan. He was exchanging these views with the President of the Raw-alpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) Manzar Khurshid Sheikh during his visit to the RC I here on Tuesday.

He said that Sudan was keen to en-hance the bilateral trade relation with

the Pakistan and every possible step would be taken in this regard. He fur-ther said that Pakistan and Sudan are two brother Islamic countries and it is need of the hour to promote trade activities between the two states. He was of the view that Muslim countries should extend trade relations with each other to come out of the prevail-ing world economic crunch.

The Ambassador said that Pakistani cotton products, textile, and Pharma-ceutical products are very much liked in Sudan trade markets. He said that current trade volume between the two countries is $54.80 million, which is very low for two brother countries. He said that Sudan Embassy will facilitate the Pakistani businessmen in visa pro-cess. He ensured his full support to the President RCCI in this regard.

Speaking on the occasion, President RCCI Manzar Khurshid Sheikh has said that Pakistan is a country full of

natural resources and it is need of the hour to explore and to utilize them accordingly. “Bilateral trade relation

should be enhanced and trade volume between the said countries must be improved”, he stressed. He invited the

Ambassador to invest in Pakistan and ensured his full cooperation in this re-gard.

investment environment in pakistan favourable

Sudan envoy for steps to stabilise Muslim states economies


Indian delegation led by Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan called on acting governor Sindh Nisar Ahmed khuhro at governor

house here the other day. They discussed Pak-India relations,

general elections in Pakistan, law and order situation and matters of mutual interests. Talking with Indian high commissioner acting Governor Sindh Nisar Ahmed khuhro said “we want strong democracy in Pakistan like In-dia, because continuation of democra-cy is in the larger interest of Pakistan and people.”

Indian delegation calls on acting governor Sindh

KARACHI: Acting Governor Sindh Nisar Ahmad Khoro, Ambassador of Romania Emilan Ion and Honorary Consul Gen-eral of Romania Tariq Saud posing for a group photo at a reception. DA Desk

April 15-21, 2013

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DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Ambassador of Federal Republic of Germany, Dr Cyrill Nunn called

on Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, at Air Headquarters, Islam-abad the other day.

Both the dignitaries discussed

matters pertaining to mutual inter-ests. Various areas of further cor-poration were discussed during the meeting. Both the dignitaries also exchanged souvenirs at the occa-

German ambassador calls on air chiefDA REPORTISLAMABAD

Senior officials from Pakistan and Russia will meet later this month as part of efforts to initiate promoting part-

nership on key regional and strategic issues, a national daily reported the other day.

The meeting titled, “Pakistan-Russia Consultative Group on Strategic Stabil-ity” is the latest sign of growing ties be-tween the two bitter cold war rivals.

The Russian delegation, which is due in Islamabad by the end of April, will be led by its deputy foreign min-ister, said a foreign ministry official while requesting anonymity.

The official said discussions will focus on issues concerning arms control, nuclear disarmament, and non-proliferation. Afghanistan’s cur-rent situation will also be of primary

concern.Islamabad and Moscow remained

bitter enemies in the 1980s when Pakistan along with other western countries backed the Afghan Mu-jahedeen in order to fight the Soviet troops in Afghanistan. However, in recent years, both countries have made attempts to move beyond the cold-war era.

Pakistan’s foreign policy guidelines approved by the Parliament in 2011 in the wake of US secret raid to kill Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad had laid special emphasis on improving ties with Russia.

Last year, Army Chief General Ash-faq Parvez Kayani took a historic trip to Moscow suggesting realignments in the region. Recently, senior offi-cial from Pakistan, China and Russia met in Beijing and stressed the need towards a peaceful transition in Af-ghanistan.

Russian delegation due this month for strategic dialogue

HYDERABAD: France Consul General, Christian Ramage along with Sindh University Vice Chancellor Nazeer Mughal visiting a stall during the inaugural cer-emony of ‘Travelling Expo on Energy for a Sustainable World’ organized by Pakistan Science Foundation and CCSTI France at Sindh University. DA Desk

President terms Thatcher’s demise a big loss

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

President Asif Ali Zardari said the other day that with the death of Baroness Margaret

Thatcher, the United Kingdom has lost a great leader, and Pakistan, a great friend.

In his two separate letters, one to Ms Carol Thatcher, the daughter of Baroness Margaret Thatcher, and the other to Prime Minister David Cam-eron, the President while expressing deepest condolence over the demise of former UK Prime Minister, said that Baroness Thatcher was amongst the most influential politicians of her times. He said that she was admired in Pakistan as a great friend. The President said that Shaheed Mohtar-ma Benazir Bhutto held Baroness Thatcher in high esteem because of her strong leadership qualities and for her indomitable courage and determi-nation. He said that Shaheed Mohtar-ma Benazir Bhutto and Ms. Margaret Thatcher were not only the first wom-en Prime Ministers in their respective countries but also stateswomen with lasting legacies. The President prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan expressed grave con-cern over the refusal of right

to vote to the overseas Pakistanis by Election Commission of Pakistan and urged Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Justice (retd) Fakharuddin G Ebrahim to intervene and implement the direction made by Supreme Court of Pakistan in this regard.

The PTI chief made this statement during his meeting with a 30-member delegation comprising eminent mem-bers of the overseas Pakistanis who called on him here to discuss the mat-ter.

The Election Commission of Paki-stan (ECP) on Wednesday had reit-erated its stance that it might be impossible to include overseas Pakistanis in the polling process with 30 days left in the general elections due to legal and other factors.

“The overseas Pakistanis are an as-set for the country and denying them the right to vote is a grave injustice. It was PTI that had filed a petition in the Supreme Court for giving right of vote to overseas Pakistan and after the decision of the apex court every effort should have been made to ensure that this be-came possible.”

The PTI chairman said unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles were being made as an excuse just to deny the overseas Pakistanis of their right and this was cause of grave concern for his party.

Khan said that he could not comprehend as to

why the options of Nadra’s e-voting software and postal ballot were be-ing opposed to facilitate voting by the overseas Pakistanis.

“It is a fact that the Pakistanis living in other countries are our ambassa-dors. They are sending billions of dol-lars every year from abroad to Pakistan which was a major source of running our expenditure. But unfortunately, the government institutions have been de-nying them their basic right for which the overseas Pakistanis are feeling detached,” he said and added the step-motherly treatment with the Pakistani Diaspora was counter-productive and uncalled for.

Imran Khan urged the CEC and the chief justice of Pakistan to take cogni-zance of the matter and take measures o remove any hurdles in way of the right to vote to the Pakistanis living abroad.

“Our Pakistani brothers and sisters abroad need to be

brought in the mainstream. The refusal of right to vote to them has made them second class citizens. The CEC must act to ensure right to vote for the over-seas Pakistanis,” Khan concluded.

Imran urges CJP, CEC to ensure provision of vote right to overseas Pakistanis

April 15-21, 2013

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DA REPORTISLAMABAD

Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad in collaboration with ASEAN Missions organised Asean Food Festival 2013 featuring food, music, dance and other perfor-mances the other day.

The event was kicked off with the welcome remarks by Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Pakistan, Mr Burhan Muhammad, followed by a speech by Chairman ASEAN Islamabad Committee, Dr Hasrul Sani Mujtabar.

The cultural performances on the occasion included Su-danese Sulintang dance, band performances, songs of Euis, Manuk Dadali and La Paloma, feat of Angklung, Pencak Silat (traditional martial art), performances by ASEAN missions and Saman dance performances etc. The food festival also featured music, traditional dances and other cultural perfor-mances from Indonesia and other ASEAN countries.

At the festival Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam set up their colourful stalls at the food court.

Additional Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs Naghmana Hashmi was the chief guest on the occasion, who joined the ASEAN Heads of Missions in the opening ceremo-ny and cut the rice cone to formally launch the food festival.

In his welcome address, Ambassador of Indonesia Mr Burhan Muhammad said that food festival was organized with an aim to familirise their friends with the diversity and colours of the rich ASEAN culture not only by presenting the food delicacies but also through music and artistic per-formances. He said the culinary delights of ASEAN member states were as diverse as their cultures. The specific style and the way of presentation of food reflect the norms and values of the people. In this regard, the food festival is an activity of much significance and helps the friends of ASEAN to better understand its culture as well as strengthen the friendly ties, he added.

He noted with pleasure that the cordial relations between ASEAN and Pakistan have been growing steadily and the ASEAN highly value the strong interest and cooperation of Pakistan for developing comprehensive and durable rela-tions with it.

The festival was a well-appreciated effort at sharing ASEAN’s rich and unique culture and discovering the rich flavours of ASEAN cuisine and music.

ASEAN Food Festival presents ‘spice of life’

ISLAMABAD: US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson posing for a group photo with prize win-ners on the occasion of celebrations of International Day for Street Children 2013. DA

ISLAMABAD: Former president of Pakistan, Justice (retd) Rafiq Tarar, ambassadors of Australia, Nepal, Turkey, Cuba, Sweden, South Korea and others posing for a group photo on the occasion of wedding ceremony of son of Justice (retd) Ali Nawaz Chohan. DA Desk

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