BEIJING, SEPT (DNA) – The Pakistan Embassy in Beijing organized a photo exhibition titled “Pakistan in Frames: A Visual Journey by Chinese Tour Operators” today. Khalil Hashmi, Ambassador of Pakistan to China, delivered a keynote address at the event.
The exhibition showcased captivating images of Pakistan’s landscapes, culture, and heritage as captured by Chinese tour operators during their visits.
RAWALPINDI, SEPT 3: Amid a spike in terror incidents particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the military’s top commanders on Tuesday took stock of threats posed by “inimical forces” and resolved that the Pakistan Army would not allow hard-earned successes against terrorism to be reversed.
The resolve comes after Army Chief General Asim Munir presided over the Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, the military’s media wing said.
In assessing the inimical forces, malicious actors, subversive proxies, and the facilitators of Pakistan’s external and internal adversaries, particularly those active in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the top commanders deliberated on a range of measures to neutralise these threats.
“The forum reaffirmed that the Pakistan Army, with the unwavering support of the people, will not allow the hard-earned successes against terrorism to be reversed,” it added.
ISLAMABAD, SEPT 3 (DNA) – In its latest edition of Thought Leaders Forum (TLF), the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a senior monk from Thailand, Most Venerable (MV) Dr. Anil Sakya. Organized by the China-Pakistan Study Center (CPSC), the session focused on “Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan: A Bridge to Peace and Harmony.”
Director General ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, in his welcome remarks, highlighted MV Dr. Anil Sakay’s illustrious journey as a revered spiritual leader and a distinguished scholar, noting his significant contributions to the understanding of the Buddhist philosophy and heritage worldwide. He emphasized Dr. Anil Sakya’s unique ability to bridge the traditional principles of Theravada Buddhism with the contemporary challenges faced by lay-people, making him a beacon of adaptability and relevance in today’s world. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood particularly highlighted the rich Buddhist Gandhara heritage of Pakistan, pointing out that the region was home to some of the most important and sacred Buddhist sites globally. These sites — including Taxila, Peshawar, Swat, Takht-i-Bahi — were centers of learning and creativity during the peak of the Gandhara civilization. He added that by preserving and promoting this heritage, Pakistan was not only honouring its past but also making a valuable contribution to global dialogue on peace and harmony.
MV Dr. Anil Sakya, in his address, emphasized the profound significance of Pakistan’s unique Buddhist heritage, which dated back over thousands of years and represented some of the most authentic and ancient Buddhist sites and artifacts in the world. He underlined that not only Pakistan was a cradle of Buddhist civilization but also this preserved heritage served as a living tradition inspiring and guiding the world in fostering peace and harmony in these challenging times.
Drawing from his personal experiences, MV Dr. Anil Sakya spoke about his numerous visits to Pakistan over the past decades and his efforts to create better awareness about the country’s cultural and religious landscape. He shared anecdotes from his teaching experiences in Thailand and the United States, where he emphasized the universality of Buddhist principles and the importance of Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage. He also recounted his work with Thai officials to foster enhanced cultural exchanges, including proposals for exhibitions in Thailand to showcase Pakistan’s Buddhist artifacts and promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of this rich heritage.
Earlier, Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director CPSC, stressed the relevance of Buddhist teachings in today’s world, particularly in promoting peace, mutual respect, co-existence and harmony amidst global challenges.
The Forum was also attended by a Thai delegation led by Mr. Chalyapon Suk-leam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, Thailand. A cross-section of people including academics, think-tank experts, and members of civil society and the media participated.
ISLAMABAD, SEPT 3 (DNA) – Pakistan and Ethiopia have a long history of cooperation and friendship with strong ties in various fields such as trade, culture, and education. The similarities between Pakistan and Ethiopia are numerous, including their commitment to sovereignty, territorial integrity and economic development. Both countries also share a rich cultural heritage and a strong desire for regional peace and stability. This has been stated by Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ambassador of Ethiopia while talking to Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry during his visit to the Chamber House.
The Ambassador praised Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari’s endeavors in fostering stronger ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia as well as with African nations at large. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to further strengthen the strategic partnership and bring the people of both countries closer together. He stressed that collective efforts are essential to deepen mutual understanding, promote economic cooperation and enhance the overall bilateral relationship.
Ambassador Beker announced that the Embassy plans to host a cultural ceremony at the Chamber House on September 11, coinciding with Ethiopian National Day. The event aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia, featuring a cultural troupe that will perform for the audience. This initiative seeks to foster greater understanding and closeness between the people of Pakistan and Ethiopia.
Furthermore, on September 12, the Embassy will organize a marathon in Islamabad, which will bring together esteemed runners from Ethiopia, diplomats, dignitaries, students, and other participants.
On this occasion, the ‘Green Legacy’ initiative of H.E. Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed was discussed as a potential area of collaboration.
Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari acknowledged Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula’s efforts and pledged his wholehearted cooperation and support to the Embassy in strengthening the existing relationship. He stated that hosting an event at ICCI on Ethiopian National Day would be an honor for the Chamber. Bakhtawari recognized the Ambassador’s contributions to deepening the partnership by warmly terming him the “Ambassador of Pakistan.
He also commended the Ambassador’s initiatives for a green and clean Islamabad, stressing that collective efforts are necessary to raise awareness about climate change among the masses. Bakhtawari also expressed hope that Ethiopian Airlines’ direct flights will significantly boost bilateral relations, particularly in the tourism sector. He noted that the Airlines’ direct operations from Lahore and Islamabad after Karachi will be a notable achievement during the Ambassador’s tenure.
Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General of the United Business Group and Chairman Pakistan-Africa Friendship Association, praised Ambassador Beker’s initiatives by emphasizing that African states hold paramount importance for Pakistan in terms of exploring new business opportunities and boosting its exports.
He recognized the immense potential for trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Africa and expressed optimism that collaborative efforts will bear fruit and lead to deepening of relations in all fields.
ICCI member Kashif Zaheer, Zia Chadurhy, Nisar Mirza, and Secretary General Ghulam Mustafa Siddique were also present on the occasion.
ISLAMABAD, SEPT 2 (DNA) – Muhammad Yahya, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Pakistan, called on Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, at the Finance Division in Islamabad.
Mr. Muhammad Yahya briefed the Finance Minister on the work of UN and its agencies undertaking development and humanitarian assistance projects in Pakistan. He also shared the success of UNESCAP and its work on debt consolidation in middle income countries. Mr. Yahya noted that energy transition was an important area for possible cooperation with Pakistan.
The Finance Minister shared the commitment of the government towards policy reforms and sustainable economic development and appreciated the cooperation provided by the UN and its agencies in this regard. The Minister reiterated that climate finance and energy transition were essential areas for improving energy sector viability in the country and welcomed the cooperation with UNESCAP in this regard.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing their resolve to continue working closely to address Pakistan’s development challenges and to implement sustainable solutions that benefit all segments of society.
By Qamar Bashir
China has emerged as the prime driver and a leader of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) not only in the political, economic, and commercial sectors but also by providing the backbone of infrastructure, including roads, railroads, and air links. China has invested a total of $150 billion, reinforcing its broader Eurasian strategic sectoral development. This figure includes direct investments, loans, and financial support provided through various Chinese financial institutions such as the AIIB and the Silk Road Fund.
Seeing is believing. During my visit to China in August 2024, I witnessed the breathtaking development taking place at a neck-breaking speed, particularly in Xinjiang and Shaanxiprovinces, aimed at uplifting the SCO. While the SCO may not yet be equal to, it is becoming competitive with other regional organizations such as NATO, ASEAN, the EU, and BRICS. With two superpowers, China and Russia, as the engines of influence, weight, and financial might, the SCO, currently strong in Central Asia, is likely to expand its integration and scope to eventually become a global force. This will help balance Western influence, particularly in Eurasia, and serve as a platform for China and Russia to collaborate on regional issues.
During the visit, we observed that China has established sectoral hubs for all initiatives under the purview of the SCO, including security (counter-terrorism, regional stability) through the institutional framework of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS). Economic cooperation is being advanced through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with China committing over $50 billion in infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and energy pipelines to enhance connectivity within the SCO region.
China has invested over $10 billion in the Digital Silk Road, focusing on digital infrastructure, including 5G networks, fiber optic cables, and smart city initiatives. It has invested $5-7 billion in developing logistics hubs, warehousing, and cross-border trade facilities. It has invested in agricultural R&D and joint ventures within SCO member states at around $2-3 billion, which includes funding for advanced farming techniques, seed development, and sustainable agriculture projects.
Besides providing sectoral hubs for SCO initiatives, which we witnessed firsthand, China is also pursuing highly capital-intensive bilateral projects with other SCO member countries.
In Tajikistan, China has invested approximately $3 billion in road and power infrastructure projects, while the Khorgos Gateway on the China-Kazakhstan border, a major logistics hub, has seen $2 billion in investments. Energy and industrial projects in Uzbekistan have attracted about $4 billion, and agricultural cooperation with Kazakhstan has involved around $1.5 billion. The China-Russia energy cooperation, particularly through the Power of Siberia gas pipeline, represents a $55 billion investment, while the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor has seen investments of $15 billion to enhance connectivity and trade.
The dividends of China’s aggressive integration with other SCO members have been immense. Since the formation of the SCO, bilateral trade and investment with its members have significantly expanded. Trade with Russia reached a record $190 billion in 2022, fueled by energy cooperation and infrastructure investments. In Central Asia, China’s trade with Kazakhstan surpassed $25 billion. Uzbekistan saw trade grow to around $8 billion, complemented by Chinese investments in agriculture and industrial sectors.
During our discussion, a key factor regarding Pakistan’s inability to fully utilize the SCO forum became clear. Pakistan, with its limited road connectivity, has failed to establish direct road, air, or rail links with other SCO members, especially Central Asian countries (CAC), Belarus, and Russia.
Unlike other SCO countries, which have multiple transportation links, Pakistan’s reliance on the KKH as its only road connection with China makes it vulnerable to disruptions and limits its scope for increasing trade or engaging in regional transportation networks.
Pakistan lacks direct railroad connections with other SCO member countries, including the CAC. In contrast, China, Russia, and the CAC are connected via major rail corridors that facilitate trade and transportation.
These countries are also connected through a network of highways, road links, and regional infrastructure projects. Pakistan, however, has not yet integrated into this network beyond its bilateral connection with China through the KKH. While Pakistan has air links with China, it lacks extensive air transportation routes with Central Asian SCO members. Air transport between Pakistan and other SCO states is relatively underdeveloped compared to the routes between China, Central Asia, and Russia.
Pakistan’s limited transport links with other SCO members restrict its ability to fully benefit from the economic and trade opportunities within the organization. CAC, Russia, and China can trade and cooperate more seamlessly because of their physical connectivity, while Pakistan’s relative isolation limits its engagement beyond its bilateral relationship with China.
This lack of connection to Central Asian markets and other SCO member states means Pakistan cannot easily participate in the expanding trade routes that China and Central Asia are developing. This isolation reduces Pakistan’s potential role as a transit country for SCO trade and restricts its access to CAC markets.
Pakistan’s limited integration into the SCO system compared to Central Asian states, Belarus, Russia, and others can be attributed to geopolitical tensions, infrastructural and economic limitations, security concerns, and internal political challenges. While Pakistan plays a vital role in China’s bilateral strategy, particularly through CPEC, its integration within the broader SCO framework remains limited due to these complex factors.
China is making concerted efforts across all dimensions to create enabling conditions for Pakistan through the bilateral platform of CPEC, providing a gateway to fully capitalize on the SCO’s opportunities. However, our inability to rise to the occasion stems from a national attitude marked by lethargy, lack of seriousness, and a failure to harness our inherent potential. It is crucial that we move beyond the petty issues that drain the energy of our already strained state structure. Now is the time to proactively enhance our regional connectivity, diversify our economic ties, deepen security cooperation, and take on a more active leadership role within the SCO. By leveraging our strategic position and engaging more deeply with other SCO members, Pakistan can maximize its benefits from the organization and play a stronger role in shaping regional affairs. The path forward requires decisive action, focused on long-term national interests, to unlock the full potential of our participation in the SCO.
By Qamar Bashir
Former Press Secretary to the President
Former Press Minister to the Embassy of Pakistan to France
Former MD, SRBC, CEO, ATV
BAKU, SEPT 2 (DNA) – It is an honor to address you today following our observation of the Snap parliamentary elections of Azerbaijan on 1st September 2024. As the Secretary-General of the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC), I would like to begin by commending the state authority and the people of Azerbaijan for the well-organized and efficient conduct of this election.
Our delegation, which included Ambassador at Large Mr. Duarte Pacheco (Former President of IPU), Special Advisor of IPC global Think tank on climate change and SDGs Mr. Fida Hussain Malik, and Ms. Mehk Butt Manager Communications IPC are deeply overwhelmed by the professionalism and transparency demonstrated throughout the electoral process.I can confidently say that today’s parliamentary elections were conducted in an exemplary manner.
We started our observation mission at 10: 00 am today, and we visited nearly 10 polling stations across Baku and other districts, including Sabunchu and settlementMastaga. Our overall experience has been both productive and positive. We have observed a strong turnout, with the citizens of Baku showing great interest in exercising their right to vote.
We are pleased to report that the elections have been peaceful, with no signs of pressure or coercion. Representatives from various political parties were present at the polling stations, and it was encouraging to see them participating peacefully. The presence of these representatives contributed to the transparency of the process, which we observed throughout the election day.
The staff at the polling stations were well-prepared, and with only two exceptions out of the 10 stations we visited, there was sufficient English-speaking staff present, which greatly facilitated our observation efforts. Furthermore, we particularly appreciatethe providence of the accessibility measures in place for persons with special needs. The polling stations are equipped with the necessary facilities, and there are special arrangements for disabled individuals to cast their vote from home. This is a commendable effort that reflects inclusivity and respect for all voters.
The commitment to democratic principles and the dedication to ensuring a fair electoral process were evident at every stage, reflecting the strength of Azerbaijan’s democratic institutions. We are grateful to the Milli Majlis for inviting us to observe this important event. The cooperation and hospitality extended to our delegation were truly admirable.
The International Parliamentarians Congress remains committed to supporting and promoting democratic processes worldwide. We look forward to continued collaboration with Azerbaijan in the future.
In a significant development, Denmark has expressed its commitment to contribute to the modernization and investment in Pakistan’s mining industry
ISLAMABAD, SEPT 2 (DNA) – Federal Ministers Dr Musadik Malik, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Abdul Aleem Khan, Jam Kamal Khan held a meeting with the delegation of FL Smidth headed by the CEO Mr. Mikko Keto including Chris Reinbold, president mining products, Iqrar Hussain, global key account project manager.Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan H.E Jakob Linulf were also present.
FLSmidth is a leading technology and service supplier to the global mining and cement industries.
Its operations span the globe with more than 9,000 employees, present in more than 60 countries.
FLSmidth has been active in Pakistan for the past three decades, and have contributed in the development of cement industry in Pakistan with about 60-70% of the cement plants supplied in Pakistan.
In 2017, FLSmidth opened its after-sales service office in Islamabad, employing a local workforce that provide the full scope of cement plant services to customers in Pakistan.
FLSmidth is also collaborating with one of the biggest Local Foundry for the manufacturing and supply of wear parts for the local market and export.
Like cement industry, FLSmidth is looking forward to contribute in the development of a thriving and responsible mining industry in Pakistan.
Federal Ministers welcomed the visiting delegation and expressed their commitment to facilitate the investment. Federal Minister for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik highlighted Government’s focus on mining sector and remarked that these partnerships will not be limited to investing but diffusion of technology, trainings and capacity building, new ways of thinking. He further added that we are focused on competitiveness, establishing small industrial clusters that would be able to stand on their own feet.
H.E Jakob Linulf apprised the Pakistani side that Pakistan is at a very high agenda in Denmark and there is growing momentum. Recently, 75 years of Denmark-Pakistan diplomatic relations were celebrated. Denmark is willing to contribute to mining industry of Pakistan and take partnership to new levels.
CEO Mikko Keto,who is on a two day visit to Pakistan, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and briefed about his companies interest in Pakistan’s mining sector. He underscored the succesful collaborations in mining with various countries of the world that would be replicated in Pakistan. FL Smidth has competence not only in technolgy but also operations. We have decades of experience in Pakistan, that will now be expanded to mining.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb opined that having FL Smidth team on ground already makes huge amount of difference. Government will facilitate and support.
Federal Minister for commerce Jam Kamal Khan said that Denmark’s partnership in mining will bear fruit for the economy of Pakistan. Denamrk is an important partner of Pakistan and we would like to expamd this cordial relation. Federal minister for privatization Abdul Aleem Khan remarked that investment from Denmark is very encouraging for Pakistan and will bring good results.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik mentioned that this visit will be start of many new collaborations. Other mining companies of Pakistan will also be connected to FL Smidth group to explore new avenues. Focus wil also be on research and training. Mr. chris Reinbold highlighted that already there are programs for students for training and reasearch. Similar will be explored for Pakistani students.
Secretary Petroleum Mr Momin Agha, additional secretary Mr Hasan Yousafzai,DG Minerals Dr Nawaz and other officials were also present at the occasion.
ISLAMABAD, Sep 01 (DNA): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday expressed his satisfaction over the nosediving of inflation rate in the country and the indicators of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, showing a decline in the inflation rate.
The prime minister said that ‘Consumer Price Index’ fell to record low in July 2024, bringing inflation to 11 percent and welcomed the economists’ forecast of further decline in inflation in the current month of September.
“After Fitch, the global rating agency, Moody’s recently upgraded Pakistan’s credit rating, which is an acknowledgement of country’s positive economic indicators by the international financial institutions,” PM Office Media Wing, in a press release, quoted the prime minister as saying.
The prime minister further said that the government was pursuing a policy of economic reforms and the implementation work was rapidly in progress over the right-sizing policy of the government which he himself was monitoring.
He expressed the confidence that its positive impact on the economy would be visible soon.
The prime minister also acknowledged that the federal and Punjab governments had provided a big relief to the electricity consumers in respect of monthly bills, adding the prices of petroleum products were further reduced from today.
The prime minister said that the government believed in passing on all the benefits of such policies to the common man.
The economy was moving towards stability owing to the hard work of the government’s economic and financial team, he added.
He said the government was cognizant of the issues of the people and was striving day and night to resolve them.
OTTAWA, /DNA/ – The Pakistan High Commission in Canada warmly welcomed the Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan & SAFRON, Engr. Amir Muqam on his visit to Canada. The Federal Minister addressed a gathering of prominent Kashmiri diaspora which also included Mr. Shafqat Ali MP, and members of the Pakistan community in Toronto, Canada and he reiterated to reinforce the strong ties between our communities and Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri cause.
In his welcome address, the Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan to Canada, Mr. Shah Faisal Kakar, emphasized the significance of the Minister’s visit in the context of the 3rd anniversary of the iconic leader Syed Ali Gilani and the ongoing struggle of Kashmiris for justice and peace in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He highlighted the crucial role that the Pakistani community, particularly the Kashmiri diaspora in Canada, plays in advocating for the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. On this occasion, a rich tribute was paid to Syed Ali Gilani who dedicated his life to Kashmir cause.
“Your visit, Honourable Minister, not only highlights the importance of the Kashmir cause but also serves as a powerful reminder of Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Kashmiri people in their legitimate struggle for self-determination,” stated theActing High Commissioner. “We are confident that your presence here will inspire and galvanize our community as they work in unity to further the cause of Kashmir”, he further added.
The Federal Minister Engr. Amir Muqam underscored the contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in Canada, noting that the community plays a pivotal role in the development and progress of both Pakistan and Canada. He mentioned that Pakistan’s leadership raises the voice of the Kashmiri people at every forum and urges international community to work for the implementation of the UN Resolutions on IIOJK. The visit of Minister Muqamwould further strengthen the bonds between Pakistan and the Pakistani community in Canada, andreinforce the shared commitment to supporting the Kashmiri people.
