DNA

KARACHI: A high-level parliamentary delegation, led by Chairman Senate Yusuf Raza Gilani, visited Ireland to strengthen parliamentary collaboration and learn from international best practices.

The delegation included parliamentary leadership from Pakistan, compromising Speaker Sindh Assembly Syed Awais Qadir Shah, Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, MNA Naveed Qamar, Senator Fawzia Arshad, Senator Jam Saifullah Khan, Senator Nasir Mehmood, MNA Ali Qasim Gilani, MNA Ali Zahid, MNA Fazal Muhammad Khan, MNA Khawaja Izhar-Ul-Hassan, MNA Saba Sadiq, and MNA Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal. 

During their visit to The Oireachtas, the bicameral parliament of Ireland, the delegation was warmly received by Ms. Comhairle, Speaker of the lower house of the Oireachtas. 

The delegation was introduced to Ireland’s independent and innovative budgetary analysis system and effective parliamentary oversight mechanisms.

Delegation toured the Budget Office, gaining insights into its role in facilitating transparent and efficient financial governance.

Discussions were held on the potential establishment of similar budget offices in Pakistan’s legislative assemblies to enhance budgetary accountability and fiscal oversight. 

This visit marks a step forward in promoting parliamentary cooperation and adopting modern practices for strengthening governance in Pakistan.

Speaker Sindh Assembly Syed Awais Qadir Shah emphasized the importance of such international exchanges in building capacity for legislative institutions in Pakistan.

DNA

ISLAMABAD, LAHORE, JAN 31: The Higher Education Commission (HEC), through its National Curriculum Review Committee (NCRC), has revised the Geology degree curricula to reflect the latest advancements in the field, ensuring that academic programs remain relevant to both industry demands and emerging global trends. The two-day consultative session, held at HEC Regional Center, Lahore on January 30–31, 2025, was led by Prof. Dr. Mumtaz Muhammad Shah of Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, with participation from geology experts and senior faculty members from universities across Pakistan.

During the meeting, the committee redesigned and enhanced the curricula for Associate Degree, Bachelor of Science, and Master of Science in Geology, focusing on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications.

Mr. Muhammad Ali Baig, Deputy Director, Academics Division at HEC and Secretary of the NCRC, welcomed the committee members from across the country and emphasized HEC’s vision for an industry-aligned, research-driven curriculum. He provided insights into HEC’s curriculum development framework, highlighting the importance of modernizing core geology courses and integrating technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, computational modeling, and geospatial analytics ensuring that future geologists develop strong analytical and digital competencies to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.

To modernize the undergraduate degree structure, the committee introduced new specialized courses, including AI & Computational Geology, aimed at equipping students with advanced technological skills relevant to contemporary geological research and industry practices. In addition to foundational courses, the committee structured around ten specialized streams, providing students with a well-rounded academic experience tailored to different subfields of geology.

The NCRC included distinguished academics and geoscience experts from various universities across Pakistan including Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Karakoram International University, Gilgit, Khushal Khan Khattak University, Karak, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, University of Balochistan, Quetta, University of Karachi, Karachi, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, University of Sindh, Jamshoro and University of the Punjab, Lahore.

Once formally approved by HEC management, the updated curricula will be circulated to universities nationwide for implementation.

ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (DNA): The European Union delegation, headed by Ambassador Olof Skoog, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, and accompanied by Dr. Riina Kionka, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, met with Federal Minister for Law & Justice and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar here on Wednesday.

The meeting focused on Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its human rights framework and its commitment to international human rights conventions.

During the meeting, the minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to upholding human rights as a cornerstone of its governance framework and underscored the significance of cooperation with the European Union, particularly under the GSP+ framework and the recently launched Promotion of Human Rights in Pakistan II initiative.

The first Project Steering Committee meeting at the Ministry of Human Rights approved annual work plans, ensuring a structured, results-driven approach to human rights advancement, he added.

The Minister emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression and ensuring a conducive environment for civil society.

Compared to previous years, he said “Pakistan has made notable progress in the protection and promotion of human rights”. Mechanisms have been instituted to uphold the rights of journalists and human rights defenders, reinforcing Pakistan’s dedication to a free and responsible press.

Furthermore, an independent commission is being established to provide additional support and protection for journalists’ rights.

He expressed that measures have been undertaken to ensure the security of religious minorities and address their concerns through legal and administrative mechanisms. The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) continues to play a pivotal role in monitoring and addressing matters pertaining to religious freedom, further strengthening efforts to safeguard the rights of all citizens, he added.

Tarar mentioned that a decline in blasphemy cases has been observed compared to previous years. Additionally, the National Commission for Minorities Bill has been introduced in the Senate to fortify the legal framework protecting minority rights.

The Minister highlighted Pakistan’s substantive steps to narrow the scope of the death penalty, with recent amendments to national laws reflecting a shift toward more balanced judicial processes. A draft bill is also under consideration to replace capital punishment with life imprisonment for specific offenses, demonstrating Pakistan’s commitment to aligning its criminal justice system with international human rights standards.

The Minister outlined the achievements in safeguarding the rights of women and children. A child labor survey is currently underway and is expected to be completed in due course. The Ministry of Human Rights has also urged provinces to harmonize the minimum legal age for marriage at 18 years.

He underscored the importance of gender equality, citing the implementation of key legislative measures, including the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace (Amendment) Act, 2022, which expands legal protections and ensures a safer work environment for women.

“The National Gender Policy Framework is being actively implemented, with a focus on governance, education, economic empowerment, and political participation. Furthermore, the National Policy on Ending Violence Against Women is being developed in collaboration with UN Women and provincial governments.

The Minister reiterated the Ministry of Human Rights’ steadfast commitment to engaging with international partners, including the European Union, to advance democracy, human rights, and social justice.

Both sides expressed appreciation for the constructive discussions and reaffirmed their mutual commitment to furthering collaboration in areas of shared interest.

The meeting concluded with gratitude extended from both parties, acknowledging the continued partnership and underscoring the importance of sustained cooperation in promoting and protecting human rights.

Pakistan has repeatedly urged the interim Afghan government to take all necessary steps to prevent these weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The retrieval of these arms is seen as a crucial step in countering the threat posed by terrorist elements

Mahnoor Ansar

Islamabad: Pakistan has expressed deep concern over the presence of advanced US weapons in Afghanistan, emphasizing that these arms have been used by terrorist groups, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to carry out attacks within the country.

Responding to media queries regarding the US decision to reclaim the weapons left behind following its military withdrawal in August 2021, a spokesperson for Pakistan stated, “The presence of US advanced weapons in Afghanistan has been a matter of profound concern for the safety and security of Pakistan and its citizens.”

The spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan has repeatedly urged the interim Afghan government to take all necessary steps to prevent these weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The retrieval of these arms is seen as a crucial step in countering the threat posed by terrorist elements operating in the region.

The move aligns with Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to ensure regional security and stability while continuing diplomatic engagements with Afghan authorities to curb cross-border militancy.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump says that future financial assistance to Afghanistan will be contingent upon the return of U.S. military equipment by the Taliban leaders currently in power.

Trump’s remarks at a Sunday rally in Washington on the eve of his January 20 inauguration have heightened uncertainty regarding his administration’s stance on the crisis-hit South Asian nation.

“They [Biden administration] gave billions of billions of dollars to the Taliban. They gave our military equipment, a big chunk of it, to the enemy,” Trump said. He referred to the tumultuous and hasty withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in August 2021, ordered by President Joe Biden.

“If we’re going to pay billions of dollars a year, tell them we’re not going to give them the money unless they give back our military equipment. … So, we will give them a couple of bucks; we want the military equipment back,” Trump stated without elaborating.

Whereas, Afghanistan Taliban has reportedly refused to return any of the military equipment left behind by US troops during their exit from Afghanistan in 2021, according to a source familiar with the matter. The individual, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that relations between Kabul and the Trump administration are off to a shaky start.

Instead of retrieving the abandoned weapons, the source suggests that the US should consider providing the Taliban with more advanced weaponry to aid in their fight against the Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), a local offshoot of the broader ISIS organization. This proposal highlights ongoing tensions and shifting alliances in the region.

Govt response to PTI mentions constitutional, legal points why judicial commission can’t be formed

Khayam Abbasi

ISLAMABAD: The government has formally responded to the opposition PTI’s demands, addressing key issues such as the release of political prisoners, including former premier Imran Khan, and the formation of a judicial commission as demanded by the party.

In its response, sent to the National Assembly speaker, the government suggested the formation of a special or parliamentary committee as an alternative to a judicial commission.

According to sources, the government’s response highlighted constitutional and legal points, explaining the reasons why a judicial commission could not be formed. It also proposed granting the status of a parliamentary committee to the existing committee headed by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.

The government also cited legal and judicial decisions regarding the PTI’s demand for the release of its founder, Imran Khan, and other prisoners, stating that it would not object to bail or release if granted by the courts.

The government has also demanded that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) provide a list of missing persons. However, the NA speaker or committee members have decided not to make the government’s response public at this stage. If the PTI returns to the negotiation table, the response will be presented in the committee for further discussion.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been briefed on the situation, sources revealed. Meanwhile, there appears to be a difference of opinion between the government and the Speaker’s Office regarding the future of the negotiation committee. While the speaker aims to maintain the committee, the government is inclined to dissolve it after January 31.

Gentry Beach, who is in Islamabad, says Grenell stopped tweeting in support of PTI

DNA

ISLAMABAD: Texas hedge fund manager and a close associate of the Trump family has said that President Donald Trump’s aide Richard Grenell “may have been misled” over his support for the release of Imran Khan’s campaign by a lobby working in the United States.

Gentry Beach, who is in Islamabad leading a business delegation, said that he was sure that Grenell has a much better understanding of the complicated issues facing Pakistanis and that may have been the reason he has stopped tweeting in support of PTI.

Grenell, who is working closely with President Trump, has deleted dozens of tweets he did in support of Imran, but two tweets remain on his timeline.

Beach, during an interview in Islamabad, said: “Richard Grenell is one of the finest Americans that I have ever met. He gets more done in a week than most people do in a year. He is absolutely effective, incredibly smart and humble. I am in awe of ambassador Grenell. I would say I do believe he may have been misled around some of these issues by certain individuals.”

Beach claimed that there is a lobby in the US that spends $2 to 3 million per month “related to Imran Khan”.

“I am not an expert on these things but I do believe that Grenell has a better understanding of the true evidence today than before. He has a better understanding now.”

Beach said he would be surprised if Grenell started tweeting again. “I do believe he’s supportive of the American interests here. I do believe he’s supportive of the current administration, and business people like myself who are trying to make bridges. Currently, Grenell is having to clean the mess the Biden administration left behind all over the world. He is the perfect person to do this. I know Trump loves him dearly. He is a huge asset to the US.”

He added: “I spoke to him and he said he has a better understanding of facts now than before. I would be surprised if he retweeted or any of the things he was doing before. I think he understands it’s a much more complicated situation. He may have been misled by some individuals and he probably has a better understanding than before.”

A high-level United States investment delegation, led by Beach, is in Pakistan for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening economic and bilateral ties. Beach, a close business associate of US President Donald Trump, is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing investment agreements between the two countries, sources have said.

The visit comes shortly after the new US administration took office and is being seen as a significant diplomatic and economic breakthrough. During their stay, the delegation is set to finalise investment deals, opening avenues for collaboration in key sectors, including energy, technology, and infrastructure.

ISLAMABAD, JAN 29 /DNA/ – In response to media queries regarding the US decision to take back advance weapons left behind in Afghanistan, the Spokesperson said:

“The presence of US advance weapons in Afghanistan, left behind in the aftermath of the withdrawal of its troops in August 2021, has been an issue of profound concern for the safety and security of Pakistan and its citizens.

These weapons have been usedby terrorist organizations, including the TTP, to carry out terrorist attacks in Pakistan. We have been repeatedly calling upon the de facto authorities in Kabul to take all necessary measures to ensure that these weapons do not fall into the wrong hands.”

ISLAMABAD, JAN 29 /DNA/ – Ambassador Bolat Nurgaliyev, former Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization from Kazakhstan, suggested that the upcoming SCO Summit should prioritize the pressing issue of terrorism originating from Afghanistan, as it significantly threatens regional stability and security.

Speaking at a conference hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Amb Nurgaliyev highlighted the shared concerns of Kazakhstan and Pakistan regarding cross-border terrorism and the security situation in Afghanistan. He noted that the presence of various terrorist groups in Afghanistan was alarming, particularly the Islamic State of Khorasan, the ISK.

Amb Jauhar Saleem, President of the IRS, stressed the need for stakeholder involvement in combating terrorism and supported a regional approach. He welcomed Amb Nurgaliyev’s proposal to address terrorism at the upcoming SCO summit this summer. Additionally, Amb Saleem recognized the strong bilateral ties between Kazakhstan and Pakistan in economic, political, security, and cultural areas.

In response to a question, Amb Nurgaliyev stated that while Kazakhstan does not share a border with Afghanistan and faces no immediate threat like Pakistan, the risk of Central Asian militants joining IS and the potential spillover is concerning.

Recognizing Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war on terrorism, Amb Nurgaliyev remarked that the country continues to suffer due to terrorist infiltration, which he believes could be mitigated through effective coordination with the Taliban government. He expressed optimism that the Taliban has learned from past mistakes and is striving for better engagement with regional and international communities, contingent on fulfilling the Doha agreement.

The event drew a substantial audience, including former diplomats, government officials, journalists, students, and representatives from Central Asian countries.