ISLAMABAD, OCT 20: Deposed prime minister and proclaimed offender Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan on Saturday afternoon after spending four years in London.

The PML-N supremo’s legal team including former law minister Senator Azam Tarar and party leaders are present at the airport to receive him.

Tarar said Nawaz will be consulted on political and legal issues upon his arrival, adding that the ex-premier will head to the VIP lounge after landing.

He confirmed that the court staff also reached the airport and now “the legal process of security guarantee will be completed”.

Ex-deputy mayor Zeeshan Naqvi was also present at the airport along with the oath commissioner for signing legal documents. The legal team of Nawaz will go inside the plane to take his biometrics and signatures.

Before boarding his flight, Nawaz said he was “happy to return”. He is likely to face a host of legal challenges before embarking on his election campaign to rev up his party’s prospects in the lead-up to elections due in Jan next year.

Party leader Ishaq Dar said Nawaz would arrive at Minar-i-Pakistan at 5pm today on schedule to address the gathering.

“On a media channel, there is news that Mian Nawaz Sharif will first go to Jati Umra and will later go to Minar-i-Pakistan at 7pm. This news is not true,” he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Nawaz’s party is rallying its base, urging supporters to converge on Minar-i-Pakistan in Lahore from around the country to greet their leader and showcase the undiminished popularity of the party, which has been declared ‘irrelevant’ by its rivals.

Observers say the reason Nawaz is arriving in Islamabad instead of Lahore is that his touchdown in the capital was necessary to make bail, earlier granted by the Islamabad High Court on Oct 19.

“I’m going back to Pakistan after four years today,” Nawaz said today while speaking to the media at Dubai Airport. “When I was leaving Pakistan and going abroad I had no feeling of happiness but today I am happy.”

The ousted premier added that it would have been very good if the situation of the country was better today as compared to 2017.

“I get very worried and disappointed seeing the situation in the country. The country that had to move forward is going backward now economically and unity-wise.”

Terming the situation as “worrisome”, Nawaz said there was still hope and “we should not let it slip from our hands as we are capable of fixing it because we spoilt it ourselves”.

He said the country had to get back on its feet as nobody would lift us up.

“When I remember Pakistan back then, I get hurt, we had said goodbye to the International Monetary Fund, electricity was cheap, the rupee was stable, there was employment, roti cost Rs4, a poor family’s child went to school and medicines were also cheap.”

Throws weight behind ECP
Nawaz said only the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) can decide when polls will be held, adding that it was the only competent authority and a fair election commission.

“Whatever date the ECP announces, everyone will [abide by it]. My priority is whatever the ECP says. Pakistan has a fair ECP today and I feel it will make the best decision with regards to the election.

“The process takes time. Some work is left. A census has been done. Delimitations have to be carried out. ECP has an eye on all these things.”

Lamenting the treatment meted out to him in the past, Nawaz said he was the person who had gone through 150 court hearings. “Not just me but also my daughter. She even got a clean chit. She had to get it. She didn’t have a position during my government, not even an office.”

He said fake cases were not just filed against his family including former prime minister and his brother Shehbaz Sharif but also ex-interior minister Rana Sanaullah Khan and PML-N leader Hanif Abbasi.

“I even said before leaving that I leave everything to Allah and I still continue doing that.”

Nawaz smirked and said “We are the May 28 ones” when asked about the May 9 violence allegedly carried out by the PTI.

Pakistan conducted nuclear tests on May 28, 1998, under the leadership of the then prime minister Nawaz.

DNA

MINSK, OCT 20: The Embassy of Pakistan in Minsk hosted an exciting and informative event for students from School No.4, Minsk City on 19 October, 2023. Ambassador Sajjad Haider Khan gave a detailed briefing on Pakistan, covering topics such as its geography, arts, culture, and education system, among others.

Ambassador Khan also took the opportunity to brief the students on Pakistan’s Foreign Policy and major challenges challenges with specific focus on the Kashmir dispute, its legal status, and the ongoing situation. The students showed great interest in learning about Pakistan and engaged in an interactive Q&A session with the Ambassador.

The visit provided the students from the School with an opportunity to showcase their own talents and their school’s achievements, as they presented their school and its activities, highlighting educational achievements, innovative programs, and community engagement initiatives. In addition, the talented trio of music teachers presented a mesmerizing musical performance on violin, flute and guitar, while Belarusian singer Tatiana Kremis performed a Pakistani song in Urdu on this occasion.

In addition, the school also held a drawing competition on Pakistan, in which 13 students participated. The competition had provided an opportunity for the students to showcase their creativity and artistic skills, while also gaining a deeper understanding of Pakistani culture through their artwork. The Ambassador presented prizes to the winners, commending their efforts and encouraging them to continue exploring their creative talents.

The students were also treated to a taste of Pakistani cuisine, which they greatly enjoyed. The event was a great success, with the students leaving with a deeper understanding of Pakistan and its people.

The Embassy of Pakistan in Minsk continues to be committed to fostering cultural ties, promoting understanding, and strengthening people-to-people interactions between Pakistan and Belarus.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (DNA): In a significant step towards enhancing labour
mobility between Pakistan and Australia, Special Assistant to the Prime
Minister (SAPM) on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development,
Jawad Sohrab Malik Friday held discussions with   Australian High
Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins.

The meeting was aimed at fostering cooperation and exploring new avenues
to enhance labour mobility between the two countries,  said a press
release issued here.

The SAPM informed about the ample pool of skilled Pakistani
professionals and workers ready to bolster the Australian labour market,
highlighting the potential for addressing labour shortages through
cooperation in various sectors.

The central discussion revolved around the vital need for secure labour
mobility channels to reduce irregular migration from Pakistan to
Australia. Both the sides  stressed the importance of providing safe
avenues to job seekers abroad.

The SAPM asked for further information on in-demand trades,
accreditation, and language proficiency requirements for Australian
working and skilled visas, aiming to simplify the process for Pakistani
job seekers in Australia.

Additionally, the discussion explored the possibility of setting up
centers of excellence within the Technical and Vocational Education and
Training (TVET) sectors of both nations.

Malik stated that the centers would prepare Pakistani workers to meet
Australian labour market standards.

Furthermore, the SAPM highlighted the prospect of establishing a
Migration and Mobility Partnership between Pakistan and Australia,
fostering comprehensive cooperation in labour mobility.

He also expressed a keen interest in being included in the Pacific
Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, which aimed to address labour
shortages in rural and regional Australia, particularly in the
agricultural sector.

“Inclusion in the PALM Scheme will create opportunities for Pakistani
workers to contribute to Australia’s labour needs, further strengthening
the bonds between the two nations”, said Malik.

They discussed the potential for linking job portals between the two
countries, making it more convenient for employers and job seekers to
connect.

The meeting was also attended my Managing Director Overseas Employment
Corporation (OEC). DNA

Rawalpindi, OCT 20 /DNA/ – Lieutenant General H L V M Liyanage, Commander of the Sri Lankan Army called on General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), COAS at General Headquarters, today.

During the meeting matters of professional interest, ways for enhancing bilateral defence ties were discussed.

Sri Lankan Army Chief praised Pakistan Army for its professionalism and successes in ongoing operations for bringing peace and stability in the region. COAS highlighted that Sri Lanka has historic relations with Pakistan and its Armed Forces, particularly in the fields of Defense and Training cooperation. The visiting dignitary will also witness the Passing Out Parade at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul tomorrow.

Earlier on arrival at GHQ, the Commander of Sri Lankan Army laid floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada. A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Army presented the guard of honour to the visiting dignitary.

Rawalpindi, OCT 20 /DNA/ – Security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in general area Semu Wanda, Lakki Marwat District, on reported presence of terrorists.

During conduct of the operation, intense fire exchange took place between own troops and the terrorists, resultantly four terrorists were sent to hell, while one terrorist got injured and was apprehended by the security forces.

These terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against security forces as well as target killing of innocent civilians. A cache of arms, equipment and explosives was also recovered during the operation.

Locals of the area appreciated the operation and expressed their full support to eliminate the menace of terrorism.

DNA

Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) hosted a meeting to express its support for Palestine followed by a solidarity walk. Ms Mushaal Hussein Malik, SAPM on Human Rights and Women Empowerment attended the meeting and rally as a special guest. RCCI President Saqib Rafiq along with Group Leader Sohail Altaf expressed deep and unwavering solidarity to the Palestinian people during this time of hardship.

A resolution was also adopted unanimously for the condemnation of atrocities and human rights violations by Israel in Palestine. The house demanded the world powers, UN and OIC to play their role for resolving the conflict, permanent peace and humanitarian aid for Palestine.

“In this difficult time, our Muslim brothers and sisters in Palestine are not alone,” remarked President Saqib Rafiq. At this difficult hour of time, we stand with them in firm support for peace, justice, and a better future.

Ms. Mushaal Hussein Mullick said “At this crucial moment, we stand with our people in solidarity, compassion, and hope. She condemned in the strongest terms the unabated Israel’s atrocities, oppression and siege of the Gaza Strip, resulting in a grave humanitarian tragedy. The resolution of Palestine and Kashmir issues is vital for durable peace in the world.

RCCI office bearers, Former Presidents, EC members, members from Trade Associations, women members, distinguished RCCI members and students from various institutes attended the meeting and also participated in the short walk.

Experts call for fiscal devolution, empowering CCI, local governments, highlight role of NFC for federal harmony

ISLAMABAD, OCT 20 /DNA/ – A functional Council of Common Interests (CCI) with its rules of business, consistent National Finance Commission (NFC) Award governed through subordinate legislation, and devolution of political, financial, and administrative authority empowering local governments are imperative to create the right environment to renew Pakistan’s commitment to federalism, uphold the constitution’s mandate, and protect its basics for the next 50 years.

This was highlighted by veteran statesmen, jurists, and constitutional experts during the concluding session of the two-day conference on ‘The Constitution of Pakistan: Lessons for Next 50 Years’ co-organized by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), Islamabad, and the Department of Law, Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU), Rawalpindi.

The conference was addressed, among others, by Raja Zafar-ul-Haq, former senator, Khalid Rahman, chairman IPS, Owais Ahmed Ghani, former governor, Balochistan and KP, Amanullah Kanrani, Balochistan’s interim law minister, Dr Saima Hamid, former vice chancellor, FJWU, Prof Dr Shoaib Akhtar, dean, FJWU, Aftab Memon, former federal secretary, ministry of interprovincial coordination, Inayatuallah Khan, former minister for local governments, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Lt Gen (r) Naeem Khalid Lodhi, former federal minister for national security, Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, president, PILDAT, Prof Dr Aziz-ur-Rahman, director, School of Law, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Dr Nadia Khadam, head, Department of Law, FJWU, and Prof Dr Fakhr-ul-Islam, advisor research IPS and former DG, Pakistan Study Centre, University of Peshawar.

Emphasizing the fundamental principles upon which Pakistan was founded – unity amidst diversity and a strong federal structure – the speakers highlighted concerns related to the Council of Common Interests (CCI) and National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, underscoring the need for meaningful reforms.

As the 1973 Constitution inherently carries the characteristic of federalism, aimed at safeguarding provincial rights and fostering equitable socio-economic development, this unity remains pivotal to Pakistan’s survival.

However, there are rising concerns about the functionality of the CCI, meant to safeguard and protect the rights of the provinces, as its secretariat remains nonfunctional for all practical purposes, said Inayatullah Khan.

The issue has been compounded because there are no rules of business for the CCI even after 50 years, added Amanullah Kanrani.

The speakers said this dysfunctionality is undermining the spirit of federalism and fueling dissatisfaction among provinces because their rights are not being upheld.

Furthermore, the National Finance Commission (NFC) has failed to implement its Awards to the provinces. Since 2010, the succeeding NFCs have struggled to reach a consensus and implement awards within their stipulated time period, in violation of the constitution. Subordinated legislation is needed to govern NFC awards for consistency, emphasized the speakers.

The disarray in the relations between the center and provinces has compromised the inclusiveness of diverse ethnicities and units, said Aftab Memon. The 18th Amendment has created problems for the country in terms of financial inclusion and distribution of resources. He said it is imperative to revisit key federal issues such as the 18th Amendment and the separation of judiciary from the executive to address the challenges effectively.

The experts said an underlying issue is the post-18th Amendment scenario, in which the center failed to restructure devolved departments, resulting in a reduction in federal fiscal space. This reduction, they said, could be used to prepare grounds to invalidate the 18th Amendment, which would be an injustice to the country.

The speakers suggested that concerted coordination between the NFC and the provinces to provide funds may be a realistic alternative. The solution to the post-18th Amendment interprovincial disparities lies in Article 140(A) of the amendment, i.e., devolution of political, financial, and administrative authorities to local governments.

Moreover, a chapter should be included in the constitution regarding local governments so that the provincial governments cannot hinder the local government elections, as is currently being done, said the speakers. This will ensure the protection of the powers of local governments and elections at regular intervals for Pakistan’s democratic future.

“Failure of the political system means failure of the constitution,” said Owais Ghani while highlighting the false dynamics of the national political system. He underscored that political systems and national policies should be designed keeping in view that Pakistan is a natural state.

Khalid Rahman also stressed reform of the electoral system and adoption of the proportional representation system. He also urged revival of the local bodies in their true form as these act as nurseries for grooming future politicians.

On the other hand, Raja Zafar-ul-Haq urged for strengthening the bond between the legislature and judiciary so that the constitution can remain a beacon of hope for the people.

The most crucial aspect of the future democratic framework is the civil-military relation, said Ahmed Bilal. He stressed the way forward through civil-military dialogue, for which an active National Security Committee (NSC) provides an excellent forum. In this regard, people’s welfare and well-being must be the common goal of both the military, as the muscle of the nation, and civilians, as the brain, said Naeem Khalid.

The conference concluded that the right kind of environment is needed where everyone does their level best to implement the mandate of the Constitution and protect its basics for the next 50 years.

The conference included eight sessions on six major themes in which multi-disciplinary researchers from more than eight national and three international universities presented 25 papers on various research topics related to the 1973 Constitution.