DNA
ISLAMABAD, 19 Jan: There has been a remarkable upsurge in activism among the Muslim population in the US following the Israeli aggression against Gaza, specifically in efforts to raise awareness and support for the Palestinian cause. The conflict has ignited a strong sense of urgency and unity among the Muslims, and, as a result, their voices are increasingly being heard, which has strengthened the community. This is also evident in the display of solidarity of the general American public towards Muslims in support of this cause.

This emerged during a discussion titled ‘Gaza, Emerging World Order, and American Politics’ by Dr Zahid Bukhari, Pakistani American political analyst and former director, American Muslim Studies Program at Georgetown University, Washington D.C. The session held was hosted by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), and also joined by Khalid Rahman, chairman IPS, Ambassador (r) Syed Abrar Hussain, vice chairman IPS, and Dr Fakhr-ul-Islam, Advisor, Research & Academic Outreach IPS.

Dr Bukhari observed that the rise in activism is a continuation of the American-Muslim community’s efforts to put across their point of view in the years following the 9/11 events. However, what is striking is that the current movement is not confined solely to the Muslim population; it has garnered widespread support from the American public, who are increasingly aligning themselves with the cause of Gaza.

He said that while the older generation, particularly those who affiliate with the Republican Party, may lean towards supporting Israel, there has been a noticeable shift in opinion among the younger generation, including some Democrats, whose perceptions about the Palestine issue have changed.

Moreover, the media is showing perceptible switches in its stance regarding Muslims and the Israel-Palestine issue. In this regard, Dr Bukhari elaborated on the shifting perspective of certain media organizations that have subtly altered their coverage to include the Palestinian narrative, something unthinkable sometime back.

Dr Bukhari said this change is not only occurring in the media landscape but also in the state of the world order, which is undergoing substantial transformations. He emphasized the prevalent belief that, despite America’s considerable soft power, there is a perceived decline in its influence through hard power. Although the US retains its status as a superpower, it is vital to acknowledge the emergence of other influential nations. Consequently, there is a growing debate about whether America’s dominant role will persist or be overtaken by another country. He pointed out that China and other nations are steadily gaining strength and influence and are emerging as potential competitors.

Dr Bukhari said these changing power dynamics, combined with the ongoing clash of opinions between the American general population and the government, have the significant potential to impact the US sociopolitical conditions. He added that this poses a daunting challenge for the US government to navigate the changing environment.

Supporting Dr Bukhari’s observations, Khalid Rahman emphasized that despite the perception of America’s diminishing influence, it still has a considerable role in shaping global public opinion. He noted that while there is a shift in power dynamics, the period of transition is gradual, which is a crucial factor to consider in understanding the complex interplay of forces impacting the world order.

ISLAMABAD, JAN 19 /DNA/ – In a momentous diplomatic exchange, Foreign Minister Jalil Jilani engaged in a high-level conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Amirabdolahian on the telephone today.

 The dialogue, held today, marks a significant step towards fostering enhanced bilateral relations between the two neighboring nations.

The discourse between Foreign Minister Jilani and Foreign Minister Amirabdolahian revolved around the spirit of mutual trust and cooperation, reflecting Pakistan’s eagerness to collaborate with Iran on a multitude of fronts.

At the core of their deliberations was the shared commitment to address regional challenges and promote stability. DNA

British High Commissioner visits UK-supported solar farm helping tackle climate change in South Punjab

ISLAMABAD, JAN 19 /DNA/ – British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, has seen first-hand how UK partnerships with Pakistan are leading the global transition to green energy.

The Atlas Solar Farm, supported by the UK government’s development finance institution British International Investment, provides an additional 100 MW of clean and affordable power to over 100,000 residential consumers. In turn, this helps them to avoid 106,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per annum.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE said:

“Pakistan has immense potential to be a leader in solar, which could power the whole country. The UK is already investing in this innovation, playing a key role in a healthier more sustainable future.”

While in South Punjab, the High Commissioner met with development partners, including Maries Stopes Society, Captain (Rt) Saqib Zafar, Additional Chief Secretary South Punjab, and Eng. Amir Khattak, Commissioner Multan. The UK has supported the Government of Punjab to reduce its unsustainable debt by 469 billion rupees by streamlining wheat operations and reducing liabilities by 2.7 trillion rupees through pension reform.

She also visited MG Apparel manufacturing plant, a subsidiary of Mahmood Textiles Limited, which is one of Pakistan’s biggest supporters and leading exporters of clothing to the UK. 

ISLAMABAD, JAN 19 /DNA/ – The Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a fruitful in-house session with Mr. Andrea Margelleti, President of the Centre for International Studies (Ce.S.I.), Italy. The meeting brought together key representatives from both organizations, including Director General ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood; the Director and Research team CSP; and members of the Italian mission in Pakistan.

The exchange of views covered key global and regional developments of mutual interest. There was a particular focus on Pakistan-Italy relations, which both sides acknowledged as robust and enduring in nature. They expressed gratification that the bilateral relationship was steadily expanding across a broad spectrum.

In the global and regional arena, the two sides discussed Ukraine and the security issues in Europe; developments in the Asia-Pacific; situation in the Middle East since 7 October 2023; regional stability in South Asia; post-August 2021 Afghanistan; and recent developments in West Asia.

These in-depth exchanges underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to actively promote and contribute to mutual understanding on issues related to global peace and stability. The dialogue reflected a shared recognition of the intricate interconnections between regional and international dynamics, underscoring the importance of cooperative efforts in fostering a more secure and harmonious global environment.

The session concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad and the Centre for International Studies. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, on behalf of ISSI, and Mr. Andrea Margelleti, representing Ce.S.I., signed the MoU, reaffirming their commitment to deeper collaboration between the two think-tanks on various research initiatives and academic endeavors in the future.

To mobilize children with disabilities in Pakistan Niaz support, Moawin Foundation join hands

DNA

Islamabad, Jan 19: In a historic move that unfolded yesterday, Niaz Support and Moawin Foundation are pleased to announce a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at empowering children with disabilities in Pakistan. Hussain Odhwani, the Founder of Niaz Support and Admiral M. Asif Sandila, the esteemed former Chief of Naval Staff and Chairman of Moawin Foundation formalized their dedication to this noble cause by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The mission of this collaboration is to provide mobility solutions to children with disabilities, enabling them to access education and build a brighter future. Both organizations have already begun actively assessing areas across Pakistan, identifying children in need of mobility assistance. Through a joint effort, Niaz Support and Moawin Foundation will work towards providing custom-tailored wheelchairs, considering the unique needs and body measurements of each child. The ultimate goal is to foster their complete inclusion in society.

Admiral Sandila, ex-Chief of Naval Staff and Chairman of Moawin Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We believe that every child, regardless of physical challenges, deserves the opportunity to receive an education. This collaboration with Niaz Support aligns perfectly with Moawin Foundation’s vision of empowering the marginalized.”

Hussain Odhwani, Founder of Niaz Support, emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, “Our aim is to break down barriers hindering the education of children with disabilities. By providing them with customized wheelchairs, we are not only offering mobility but also opening doors to education and a better future.”

On January 19, 2024, the formal signing of the MOU transpired at the Moawin Foundation Head Office. Commander (R) Dr. Naeem Tariq, GM Programmes of Moawin Foundation, and Hammad Malik, Honorary Ambassador of Niaz Support, appended their signatures to the MOU in the presence of Admiral (R) M. Asif Sandila and Hussain Odhwani, accompanied by representatives from both organizations. This marks a noteworthy stride in fostering a more inclusive and accessible society for children with disabilities in Pakistan.

British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, has seen first-hand how UK partnerships with Pakistan are leading the global transition to green energy.

The Atlas Solar Farm, supported by the UK government’s development finance institution British International Investment, provides an additional 100 MW of clean and affordable power to over 100,000 residential consumers. In turn, this helps them to avoid 106,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per annum.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE said:

“Pakistan has immense potential to be a leader in solar, which could power the whole country. The UK is already investing in this innovation, playing a key role in a healthier more sustainable future.”

While in South Punjab, the High Commissioner met with development partners, including Maries Stopes Society, Captain (Rt) Saqib Zafar, Additional Chief Secretary South Punjab, and Eng. Amir Khattak, Commissioner Multan. The UK has supported the Government of Punjab to reduce its unsustainable debt by 469 billion rupees by streamlining wheat operations and reducing liabilities by 2.7 trillion rupees through pension reform.

She also visited MG Apparel manufacturing plant, a subsidiary of Mahmood Textiles Limited, which is one of Pakistan’s biggest supporters and leading exporters of clothing to the UK.