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Babar Azam opens up on ‘pressure game’ as Pak vs Ind T20 World Cup clash on June 9

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Babar Azam opens up on 'pressure game'

ISLAMABAD, JUN 2: As Pakistan gears up to kick off its journey in the T20 World Cup 2024, skipper Babar Azam has acknowledged that there will be some nerves in the match against arch-rivals India in the tournament.

“The whole world is focused on the day when the Pakistan-India match is held. Naturally, there will be nerves,” Babar said while speaking on a Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) podcast.

Noting that the rivalry between the two countries is always the most talked about, Babar said that the team was focused on the June 9 match as the players too get a different vibe and excitement since the clash is always the most talked about and is discussed globally.

Stressing the need to focus and stick to the basics, the skipper said things will get easier if the players are able to keep themselves calm and maintain belief in their own skills and hard work.

“It is always a pressure game,” he added.

Hopeful to lift trophy
Furthermore, despite coming off from a 2-0 defeat in the recently concluded series against England, Babar said that he hopes to lift the trophy and that they have to give their best in each match to materialise this goal.

“I am happy and excited because when you go to play in a major event […] the hope is always to lift the trophy, but for that to happen, we have to play top cricket against every side,” he noted.

On the conditions that the Men in Green might face in the United States, Babar acknowledged that they can in fact pose a challenge as it will be the side’s first instance playing in the US.

“We are in the process of collating various cricket and match-related information from players who have played there, which can help and assist us in our preparations,” he said.

Stressing that the team can only control their own efforts on the pitch and not the results, the right-handed batter underscored the significance of how the players present themselves in the ground, their body language and communication.

Reflecting on his own accomplishments as a captain, Babar said that although he has performed “decent” by winning a few series, he acknowledges that winning an International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament is a different thing altogether.

“Lifting the ICC trophy is a different motivation. You go to a different level and get a lot of praise. So, the motivation, aspiration and dream remain to lift an ICC trophy and present it to Pakistan,” he noted.

Hurtful past
Recalling the Green Shirts performances in previous editions of the World Cup, Babar lamented that despite the team’s good performances they were unable to see those tournaments to the end to lift the trophy.

“Unfortunately, we could not finish on a high. We were also runners-up in the Asia Cup 2022. So, at the back of our minds, we are thinking about how we have played two finals and a semi-final and how we can overcome the mistakes that derailed our campaigns,” he said.

He further remarked that the team could’ve won the T20 World Cup 2021 semi-final against Australia.

“I think the semi-final we lost against Australia, we could have won that. In that match, fielding was the reason that made a different impact.

“If we had bowled two or three dot balls in the final stages, then the pressure would have got to them. But we lost as a team and not due to an individual,” the skipper noted.

He further added: “For me, in 2022 [World Cup], we could and should have won the India game, but they took it away.”

“Shaheen’s [Afridi] injury was impactful because, at that time, the pressure was on them [England]. We were forced to give an over to a spinner and that made a difference,” he said while recalling the T20 World Cup 2022 loss against England in the final.

However, Babar termed the loss against Zimbabwe as the most hurtful one and said: “It hurts more because we had played good cricket against India and people were praising our performance and fightback.”

APBF emphasizes need for transparency to instill confidence in investors

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APBF emphasizes need for transparency to instill confidence in investors

DNA

ISLAMABAD, JUN 2: Emphasizing the need for transparency for instilling confidence in the business community and investors to attract investment the All Pakistan Business Forum (APBF) has asked the government that its strategies should not only focus on short-term but also cover a long-term vision for speedy economic growth.

APBF President Syed Maaz Mahmood emphasized that such transparency from the government is crucial, as the country has had trouble raising enough money to cover its expenses. He said that the domestic investment at the moment is alarmingly low which has sent a negative signal to the potential foreign investors and now is the time that the federal government should give some patient hearing to the private sector calling. He said if the government was seriously desirous of having economic turnaround in the coming years it would have to do two things that are: an immediate freeze on domestic and foreign borrowing and secondly put in place a well-tailored strategy to show-case Pakistan’s potentials to the outer world.

APBF Chairman Ibrahim Qureshi said that even though Pakistan’s economic crisis is a recurring factor in the country’s political unrest, it has a history of ignoring the nation’s true issues, which include poor governance, a broken judicial system, outdated laws, complicated tax system, lack of transparency, duplication in the government system, ineffective bureaucracy, improper use of our human, natural and water resources, lack of efficient local government, inadequate data for country’s planning, and the consistent flaws in policies in execution by the government departments.

Ibrahim Qureshi said that Pakistan’s GDP growth rate has always remained below its potential despite efforts to boost economic growth. He said that the development of important sectors and investment prospects was hampered by inadequate revenue collection, structural problems, and governance issues.

Syed Maaz Mahmood said that due to the low tax-to-GDP ratio, borrowing and outside help are heavily relied upon to close the fiscal imbalance. There is a recurring budget deficit because the government spends more than it takes in. The national debt burden has risen, as a result, needing substantial financial resources for debt repayment. Both internal and external debt in Pakistan has been constantly rising.

He called upon the government to announce clear and robust economic strategies, as the country has stuck in low economic growth situation, where double-digit policy rate for the last few years has diminished capacity to increase domestic production, and exports, negatively impacting domestic resource mobilization.

The APBF President said that the government will have its work sharply cut out as far as the economic challenges are concerned. Coming at the back of fast-unfolding climate change crisis that pushed millions into poverty with little fiscal capacity of government to provide anywhere near close to what was needed in stimulus spending. Then there is acute debt distress, and seriously high inflation at the back of global aggregate supply shock, and accentuated by a world of rising conflicts, mainly in Ukraine, and the Middle East.

Since it has been causing serious governance and economic issues for years, the cost of goods, food, petrol, and other necessities has increased, and inflation has almost reached 45 per cent, which is not bearable for the common man. On the other hand, there has been an increase in dissatisfaction among the public that no state institution is performing well and to save them from the haughtiness and bad administration pervasive in the system.

Doha Summit: A chance of “loss and win” for Taliban regime    

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Global Misperceptions

Shamim Shahid Abdul Waheed

In order to participate in third conference scheduled to be held at Doha, Qatar on June 30th till July 3 next,  regarding ongoing situation and future prospects of Afghanistan, the Taliban leaders governing Kabul have held talks with representatives of the United Nations and Qatar, and come up with the demand of Afghanistan seat in United Nations.

In connection with making successful the event, UN Secretary General’s representatives are touring the region. The UN representative had visited Kabul couple of days back and held details conversations with Taliban office holders. Taliban leadership besides listening to UN officioals also handed over a list of its demands which included beside others recognition of its Emirate Islami and giving it the UN seat on permanent grounds.

Whatever might be its conclusion and decisions but almost sessions of over three days much important gathering to be attended by a number of countries, either having stakes or interested in ending of over four decades conflict in Afghanistan but Taliban’s decision banning girls’ education, ending women’s jobs and establishing an inclusive government are believed to be its main key terms on the agenda. But instead, Taliban wants to include its achievements like controlling drugs production and its eradication, improving security situation and combating the IS (Daesh) militants considering a serious threat to the global peace may be made part of the agenda.

But apart from UN and Taliban, others especially European and Far Eastern world would definitely highlight political and rights issues as no one is allowed to exercise just human rights, Since mid of August 2021, forced disappearance, mysterious target and extra judicial killing, detention of men and women, denying just rights of expression to media personnel, making mum and even killing and beating of singers, musicians and artists are considered routine matters across Afghanistan. It will also be hard for the global community to remain silent spectators to what happening at hands of gun-totting Taliban inside prison houses and detention centers with all those who have served the country in different categories. All those who either remained in civil or in security organs since November 2001 last are still treated by Taliban as “enemies and American agents.” Hundreds of such people are locked in prisons for undine since August 2021 last.

Except Russian Federation, nor any other country extended either any support to Taliban or willing to endorse its demand for giving representation in UN and recognition of its regime. Though Chinese are willing to recognize Taliban but they ( Chinese) are aware its prices. It could be hard for China to formally recognize Taliban regime before of any other member of international community. Pakistan is making conditional all of its support and cooperation to Taliban. Compare to recent past, Pakistan’s position on the issue of Afghanistan is now different but still it effecting rest of the worlds on the grounds of its domains over “Islamic hardlines.”

In such a circumstances, defending its case could be very hard for Taliban in much high profile Doha Conference, considered biggest event in Qatar after February 2020 last when the US and Pakistan backed Afghan Taliban signed an agreement. Through this agreement, Taliban succeeded in returning to power but they had failed in earning hearts of common Afghans who having no any concern that who is in power and who is governing Afghanistan but they are much more interested in peace and tranquility in their motherland.

On such grounds, participation of Taliban government Doha Conference would definitely requires with strong arguments, especially with a positive approach, adopting a flexible and showing a balanced flexibility in the framework of its internal and external responsibilities and obligations.  At the international level, the Taliban can communicate to the international community positive aspects of their achievements especially defending sovereignty and solidarity of the country, ensuring peace and tranquility and discouraging production of opium and its conversion in valuable commodities and its trafficking as well. Similarly patiently listening, understanding and  responding its positive assurances about common men ( Afghans) miseries from the participants/observers and HR  activists  could make beneficial the Taliban who are now reluctant to share powers with others despite commitments made in Doha February 2020 historical documents.

The Third globally applauded Doha conference might be a valuable opportunity for Taliban rulers as through it in return of international community’s demands pertained to honouring of human rights, allowing girls education and women to contribute in addressing economic needs of families, ending of political victimization and others, Taliban could easily cash its achievements. Doha conference could prove a golden chance for Taliban to review its all those internal and external shortfalls as Afghanistan is still on the bank of another global strategy, whereas US lead allies days and nights made hard by Russian federation on defense side and Chinese on economic side.

Attending the said meeting will certainly reduce sensitivity and mistrust of global community towards Taliban, calling also Emirate Islami Afghanistan. Through this event, Taliban could easily convey its messages to rest of the world and can easily convince some of community fellows in favour of its achievements. Similarly through this event, Taliban could easily convince rest of the world which is really interested in nothing else except ending of hostilities and return to peace and tranquility in the war devastated Afghanistan. Through this scheduled event, Taliban without support or assistance of any third party mediation, could easily response to reservations and observations of international community and can get a lot for the war affected people of Afghanistan. It is the time

Whatever might be the situation, Taliban must avail the opportunity otherwise its decision of didn’t attending the moot could be an emotional blunder. Though Taliban would call it an independence in decisions and didn’t bowing head to compromise its principles in according to their own interpreted Islamic doctrine but it would pose very bad impacts on the future of already over war devastated Afghanistan. It would make more isolate Afghanistan at the time when its sheltered banned Tehrik Taliban Afghanistan is considered a serious threats to its links with Pakistan and Russian Federation and some of Central Asian countries are considering Afghanistan sheltered IS militants a threat to its peace.

Charity Festival “Magic of Childhood” on International Children’s Day

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MINSK, JUN 2: The Embassy of Pakistan in Minsk took part in the Charity Festival “Magic of Childhood” held at Gorki Park to celebrate International Children’s Day. The festival was organized by the Minsk International Women’s Club of Spouses of Ambassadors, diplomats, and foreign representatives, in collaboration with the Minsk City Executive Committee.

The event featured several engaging segments, including country stalls set up by participating nations, a charity lottery, an art exhibition, an international culinary festival, and various activities aimed at promoting children’s well-being.

The Pakistan Embassy’s stall received the “Best Stall Award” among the participating countries. The stall was beautifully adorned with traditional handicrafts such as truck art, onyx items, salt products and hand embroidered wall hangings. Visitors enjoyed a taste of Pakistan with food items like chicken biryani, samosas, and jalebi.

On the main stage, Pakistan was represented by talented students from the Belarusian State University of Culture and Arts who performed a traditional Pushto dance to a popular song. Additionally, Tatiana Kremis captivated the audience with her rendition of a beautiful Urdu song.

The Embassy of Pakistan in Minsk is proud to have been part of this inspirational event celebrating the magic of childhood and the importance of community support. We extend our sincere gratitude to the organizers and participants for their dedication to making a difference in the lives of children.

Donald Trump’s Indictment: What Next?

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Qamar Bashir

By: Qamar Bashir

Former President Donald Trump has been charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in the first degree. These charges stem from an investigation into hush-money payments made to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels to cover up an alleged affair before the 2016 election. The charges, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, allege that Trump, along with others, orchestrated a scheme to influence the election by suppressing negative information about him, thus violating election laws. Under New York state law, falsifying business records with the intent to defraud or conceal another crime is a felony. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has called them politically motivated..

The guilty verdict against Donald Trump has significant implications for his potential presidential run in the upcoming elections. Legally, a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate from running for or being elected as president, as the U.S. Constitution does not list a criminal conviction as a disqualifying factor. Therefore, despite the charges and any subsequent convictions, Trump can still contest the elections. However, the charges and ongoing legal battles may influence voter perceptions, divert campaign resources, and attract intense public and media scrutiny, potentially impacting his campaign’s effectiveness.

There have been numerous claims that the verdict against Donald Trump is biased, with critics arguing that the jury was selected to include individuals predisposed against him. Concerns have been raised about the impartiality of the jurors, suggesting that the selection process was manipulated to ensure an anti-Trump outcome.

Additionally, Trump’s supporters have accused the presiding judge, Juan Merchan, of bias. They claim that his rulings were unfairly prejudicial against Trump, indicating a judicial partiality. Judge Merchan, known for his tough but fair approach, has faced scrutiny in this high-profile case where the stakes are particularly high. Allegations of judicial bias are common in politically charged cases, but there has been no substantiated evidence provided to support these claims against Judge Merchan specifically.

The most prominent claim is that the Biden administration is using the legal system to undermine Trump’s credibility ahead of the 2024 election. Critics argue that the timing and nature of the charges are politically motivated, suggesting a coordinated effort to discredit Trump and prevent him from running for office again. Prominent Trump supporters, including his legal team and political allies like Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene and Senator Lindsey Graham, have publicly denounced the charges as part of a broader campaign to silence Trump. While the investigation was initiated by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, which operates independently of the federal government, the perception of political motivation remains strong among Trump’s supporters.

The guilty verdict against Donald Trump carries significant implications for his future. Legally, it could result in penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment if the conviction is upheld. Politically, it may harm his reputation and influence, complicating any potential 2024 presidential run. Personally, the ongoing legal battles and public scrutiny will take a considerable financial and emotional toll.

Trump has several forums available for appealing the verdict. Initially, his legal team can file post-trial motions in the trial court that delivered the verdict, requesting a new trial or to set aside the verdict based on procedural errors or new evidence. If these motions are unsuccessful, he can appeal to the intermediate appellate court, which in New York is the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court.

If the Appellate Division upholds the conviction, Trump can further appeal to the New York Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court, which has the discretionary power to select cases of significant legal or public interest. In certain circumstances, if there are claims of constitutional violations or issues of federal law, Trump could take his case to federal courts, potentially leading to the U.S. Supreme Court, although this requires substantial legal grounds.

The success of Trump’s appeals will depend on several factors, including the strength of his legal arguments. Demonstrating significant legal errors during the trial or presenting new evidence that materially impacts the verdict could improve his chances. Historically, appeals have seen varying degrees of success based on these grounds. For example, in *United States v. Skilling* (2010), the U.S. Supreme Court narrowed the scope of the honest services fraud statute, leading to a resentencing for former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling.

While appellate courts are generally deferential to the trial court’s findings of fact, they thoroughly review alleged legal errors. High-profile cases attract significant public and media attention, which can indirectly influence the legal environment. Trump’s case will likely follow this pattern, impacting the procedural aspects of the appeal process. Overall, Trump’s path forward involves leveraging the appellate mechanisms, with success hinging on the robustness of his legal arguments and the interpretations of the appellate courts.

If Trump is elected president and later declared guilty by the final federal court, several complex constitutional questions would arise. One major issue would be presidential immunity. The U.S. Department of Justice has maintained that a sitting president cannot be indicted or prosecuted, based on concerns about the separation of powers and the executive branch’s functionality. This stance was notably referenced during the investigations into Presidents Nixon and Clinton. However, this opinion is not legally binding and could be challenged.

Another potential consequence of a final guilty verdict could be impeachment. If Trump were convicted of serious crimes, Congress could pursue impeachment and removal from office, which is the constitutional mechanism for addressing presidential misconduct. The process and outcome would depend on the political climate and the composition of Congress at the time. Historical precedents, such as the impeachments of Nixon (who resigned before he could be impeached) and Clinton, provide some context but no direct parallels, as no president has been convicted of a crime while in office.

Ultimately, any legal battles over presidential immunity or the ability to prosecute a sitting president could reach the U.S. Supreme Court, which would have the final say on these unprecedented issues. While Trump can legally run for and serve as president despite his legal troubles, the implications of a final guilty verdict would introduce significant constitutional complexities and potential political turmoil.

By: Qamar Bashir

Former Press Secretary to the President

Former Press Minister to the Embassy of Pakistan to France

Former MD, SRBC

Indonesian CDA Rahmat Hindiarta discusses religious harmony at Jamia Haqqania

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Indonesian CDA Rahmat Hindiarta discusses religious harmony at Jamia Haqqania

AKORA KHATTAK, JUN 1 /DNA/ – The Indonesian Chargé D’Affaires (CDA), Rahmat Hindiarta visited Jamia Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania to meet Vice Chancellor Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq Sami along with the Haqqanian academics and students. The purpose of the visit was mainly to share Indonesia’s best experience in managing pluralism to the Jamia.

Opening the session, Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq accompanied by his brother Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Haqqani, highlighted i.a. Indonesia as an exemplary of Islam rahmatan lil ‘aalamiin. “The cleanliness and public order are part of the life in Indonesia. The Indonesian people are friendly and having mutual respect,” he said as Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq previously in November 2023 was part of the Pakistani Ulama and Muslim Scholar Delegation to Indonesia, which was collaboratively held by the Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad and the International Research Council for Religious Affairs (IRCRA).

In his turn, the CDA addressed Indonesia is currently the largest Muslim country in the word in spite of miles away from the birthplace of Islam in Mecca, and it is such a blessing from Allah. “Indonesia is made up of 17 thousand islands where 280 million population are living, which 87 percent of them are Muslims while the rest are Catholic, Protestant, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism,” he spoke to the Haqqanian students in Arabic.

“For sure, managing pluralism is challenging. But Indonesia has continuously maintained the efforts for it through the implementation of Pancasila, as a result of the consensus by the founding fathers and mothers of Indonesia. Indeed, Indonesia does not explicitly declare as an Islamic country. However, the first principle of Pancasila is Belief in the One Almighty God,” continued and informed that the visit coincided with 1 June as the Pancasila Day.

Pancasila was first presented to the public in the speech of first Indonesian President Sukarno on 1 June 1945 during the preparation for Indonesia’s Independence. The birth of Pancasila reflected a profound commitment to forging a cohesive national identity from the diverse tapestry of Indonesian society. Sukarno articulated Pancasila as a guiding light, encompassing the principles of belief in One Almighty God, just and civilized humanity, Indonesian unity, democracy guided by the inner wisdom in the unanimity arising out of deliberations amongst representatives, and social justice for all Indonesians.

Responded to the first question from the teacher, the CDA confirmed that Pakistan can reach stronger bond among its different cultural and religious backgrounds, as long as the fraternity as “One Pakistan” is always embedded and well maintained. While the second question from the student on some view that Indonesia considers all religions as one, the CDA denied the view confirming that Indonesia recognizes the respect of all religions.

At the end of the session, the CDA handed over the plaque of Pancasila as the sign of understanding between the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia and the Jamia of Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania, while the Jamia gave to the Embassy several books written by the late Maulana Sami-ul-Haq and his son, Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq.

During the visit, the CDA and Third Secretary Mr. Axelsyah Miraza were escorted in tours to library, mosque, classes, and other Jamia’s facilities, as well as the graveyard of the founders of Jamia Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania.

Serena hotels mark world bicycle day with healthy initiative

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Serena hotels mark world bicycle day with healthy initiative

DNA

ISLAMABAD, JUN 1: In celebration of World Bicycle Day, the Turkmenistan Embassy and Serena Hotels organized a cycling event to promote a healthy, eco-friendly lifestyle under the Sports Diplomacy initiative. The event highlighted the commitment to encourage an active lifestyle and environmental sustainability.

Participants gathered at D-Chowk, where they were greeted with a lively atmosphere filled with excitement and solidarity. Along the way, participants experienced the scenic beauty of Islamabad while engaging in a healthy activity. The event was attended by the diplomatic community, corporate and media personnel and Serena Hotel’s associates.

Mr. Ahmed Naseem Warraich, Additional Foreign Secretary (Afg. & West Asia) was the chief guest of the event, who highlighted the significance of cycling in fostering a healthy lifestyle, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, and reducing noise pollution by minimizing road traffic.

He also advised for a transition to sustainable transportation choices and urged for the hosting of additional events to champion cycling as a viable and efficient means of travel.

Atadjan Movlamovin, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, ” we are delighted to celebrate World Bicycle Day with this wonderful event.

Cycling is not only a fantastic way to stay fit, but it also contributes to a cleaner and greener environment. We hope this event inspires more people to take up cycling and make it a part of their daily lives”.

Serena Hotels, beyond its environmental efforts, is deeply committed to supporting sports initiatives that contribute to community well-being and development. By sponsoring and hosting sports events, Serena Hotels provides a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and promotes a culture of health and fitness among guests and employees alike.

One such initiative is the World Bicycle Day, an annual event that brings together cycling enthusiasts to explore scenic routes while promoting eco-tourism and adventure sports. By organizing events like these, Serena Hotels not only promotes a love for sports but also encourages responsible tourism practices that benefit local economies and ecosystems.

US ambassador celebrates 20 years of English Access Scholarships in Pakistan

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US Ambassador Donald Blome

ISLAMABAD, JUN 1 /DNA/ – US Ambassador Donald Blome addressed the English Access community today, marking the 20th anniversary of the U.S.-English Access Scholarship program.

Ambassador Blome expressed his honor in being with the teachers and alumni, celebrating two decades of fostering English language skills and cultural exchange.

It is an honor to be with you all,” Ambassador Blome stated, highlighting the program’s significant impact on educational opportunities and mutual understanding.

Today, we celebrate two decades of the Access Program and the remarkable achievements of alumni, students, and teachers. Throughout the year, we have been highlighting their exceptional achievements. Our English-language programs are one of the highlights of the long-standing cooperation between the United States and Pakistan. The U.S. government supports Access because we believe in building connections between Americans and Pakistanis.

Since 2004, more than 27,000 Pakistani students have graduated from the Access program, including more than 8,000 here in the Islamabad region. My sincerest congratulations to all those present, please join me in giving the Access teachers and coordinators a big round of applause.

Today, our Access alumni work in every profession you can think of – government, science, business, agriculture, academics, the arts, law enforcement, and many others. I am proud of their achievements and the role the U.S. mission in Pakistan has played in supporting them.

During my tenure here in Islamabad, the U.S. Embassy and the Regional English Language Office at the Public Diplomacy section have held numerous gatherings, such as today’s anniversary celebration, to allow us to network, learn more about each other and to collaborate and exchange knowledge and experiences. I have traveled across Pakistan and have always been impressed with the impact Access alumni are having in their respective communities. Their journey towards community service, volunteerism, and spreading knowledge and opportunities to others who were once in their shoes creates the ripple effect fundamental to the principles of this program.

Access is about far more than just developing English-language proficiency. It develops future leaders by teaching leadership skills and fostering a sense of self-belief that extends beyond the classroom and into practical life. This program provides opportunity and hope to those who might have otherwise been overlooked or underserved.

I hope all the Access alumni present today are proud of yourselves for putting the tools Access taught you to great use. Whether that is achieving admissions into local universities, obtaining employment, or receiving scholarships to study in the U.S. As for the teachers, thank you so much for participating in our training and exchange programs and helping us teach American culture and values that lead to a stronger cultural understanding between our countries.

Once again, I applaud the countless exemplary stories of success, resilience, and transformation I have seen, and the many more to come. Thank you to everyone who made this program possible and congratulations! I hope you enjoy the rest of the celebrations today.

Access – Pakistan, U.S. Dosti ka naam!

Key Messages: Access 20th Anniversary Event

The following is attributable to U.S. Mission Spokesperson Jonathan Lalley:

Access to English opens a world of opportunity. Today, the United States is delighted to celebrate 20 years of the English Access Scholarship Program in Pakistan.

More than 27,000 Pakistani students have graduated from the program in the last two decades.

Access scholarships help Pakistani students from diverse backgrounds build English and leadership skills – including students who might otherwise be overlooked or underserved. The skills they learn during the two-year program have a life-long impact.

We are proud of the professional achievements of our Access alumni, and the positive and long-lasting impact they have on their communities. The work they are doing to build a brighter future reflects the best of the U.S.-Pakistan partnership.

For those who are interested in learning more about the Access program or other English learning opportunities, check out the “RELO Pakistan” Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/RELOPakistan/) or reach out to our Embassies, Consulates, and Lincoln Corners.

Govt can boost revenues by 40 billion with Optimized Tobacco Taxation

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Govt can boost revenues by 40 billion with Optimized Tobacco Taxation

ISLAMABAD, JUN 1 /DNA/ – Health advocates have proposed a 37% increase in taxes on tobacco products in Pakistan to reduce consumption, increase revenue and bridge the gap in health costs associated with smoking.

This proposed increase would translate into a substantial rise in government revenue, estimated to reach Rs 336 billion from the current Rs 240 billion. The intervention would also significantly impact health costs associated with smoking, projected to be reduced from Rs 615 billion to Rs 418.2 billion, effectively reducing the gap between revenue and health costs to Rs 82 billion.

Malik Imran Ahmad, Country Representative Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids (CTFK) said that the effectiveness of high tobacco taxation as a vital measure in combating tobacco consumption, as advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO). The industry can absorb at least a 40% increase in taxes, and the IMF and World Bank have recommended Pakistan introduce a single-tier tax structure for cigarettes. Despite efforts to increase taxes, low cigarette prices persist, contributing to sustained high consumption levels. By adopting these reforms, Pakistan can make cigarette taxation more effective and align it more closely with international best practices.

Imran said that the illicit market share is exaggerated by multinational companies. The industry has been found to underreport production to evade taxes, violating tax laws and prioritizing profits over public health.

Mehboob Ul Haq, Chief Executive Officer at the Human Development Foundation (HDF),
underscored the immense benefits of boosting tobacco taxation, stating, “Tobacco taxation is a globally recognized and effective tool to reduce affordability and consumption.” He stressed the urgent need for stringent regulation of all tobacco products, reaffirming HDF’s steadfast commitment to forging a healthier and more prosperous Pakistan, where the well-being of our youth is paramount.

Muhammad Asif Iqbal, Managing Director of the Social Policy and Development Centre (SPDC) said smokers’ response to price changes suggests an enormous potential for taxation to discourage smoking in Pakistan. As a result of the recent hike in the FED on cigarettes and the corresponding increase in prices, cigarette consumption has declined by 19.2%. He was presenting preliminary results of a nation-wide survey of over 5,000 smokers conducted by SPDC.

SC says apprehensions of political misuse dictated decision not to live-stream NAB amendments case

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SC says apprehensions of political misuse dictated decision not to live-stream NAB amendments case

ISLAMABAD, JUN 1: The Supreme Court on Saturday said its decision to not live-stream the proceedings in the case of intra-court appeals (ICAs) moved by the federal government against the court’s September 15 majority judgment striking down amendments to the anti-graft laws was due to concerns about the facility being politically misused.

In 2022, amendments were made to the country’s accountability laws by the then-Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. The amendments made several changes to the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) 1999, including reducing the term of the NAB chairman and prosecutor general to three years, limiting NAB’s jurisdiction to cases involving over Rs500 million, and transferring all pending inquiries, investigations, and trials to the relevant authorities.

Imran had subsequently filed a petition in 2022 challenging the amendments, claiming that the changes to the NAB law were made to benefit the influential accused persons and legitimise corruption.

The petition had pleaded that the fresh amendments tend to scrap corruption cases against the president, prime minister, chief ministers and ministers and provide an opportunity to the convicted public office-holders to get their convictions undone.

The SC had reserved its verdict in the case on September 5, 2023, after 53 hearings, with the members of a three-judge bench debating the power of parliament to enact legislation with retrospective effect. The apex court had subsequently on Sept 15 ordered the restoration of corruption cases against public office holders that were withdrawn after amendments were made to the country’s accountability laws and declared Imran’s plea to be maintainable.

However, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa had dropped hints in an October 31, 2023, hearing as the apex court took up intra-court appeals (ICA) against the Sept 15 judgement that since earlier proceedings did not to satisfy the requirements of the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023, proceedings in the matter could be started afresh if the counsel managed to “make a solid case” for the same.

Though it refused to stay proceedings in corruption cases underway in accountability courts, the apex court restrained trial courts from announcing their final orders till the next hearing of the appeals in the matter.

The apex court was seized with a number of ICAs moved by the federal government as well as by a private citizen Zuhair Ahmed Siddiqui, who was an accused in a corruption case but not a party to the challenges to the NAB amendments case.

The larger bench also issued notices to respondent Imran with a direction that since he was incarcerated, the notice should be delivered to him through the jail superintendent concerned.

On May 14, CJP Isa had instructed the government to ensure video link arrangements for Imran to join proceedings of a case about changes to the country’s accountability laws and give his arguments.

However, the May 16 hearing turned out anticlimactic as Imran appeared via video link but did not get a chance to speak as a petitioner in the matter. The hearing was not broadcast live while the May 14 hearing was. The reason was left unclear at the time.

In the May 30 hearing, the bench — headed by CJP Isa and including Justices Athar Minallah, Aminuddin Khan, Jamal Khan Mandokhail, and Hasan Azhar Rizvi — decided in a 4:1 ruling not to stream the proceedings live. The bench took a short break to mull whether to live-stream the hearing and in a majority 4:1 decision, chose not to, with Justice Minallah dissenting from it.

The decision was taken on an application by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa advocate general (AG) to live-stream the proceedings.

In its written order released today explaining the decision, the court said: “In live-streaming cases, there is always a possibility that the facility may be misused or exploited for ulterior or personal purposes. There is also the possibility of grandstanding while the nation watches. This court must be vigilant against such misuse and/or exploitation.”

It further added: “When the head of a political party wants to be heard, who is not an advocate of this court, there is a real probability that these hearings may be used for political purposes and point scoring and in respect of matters which do not concern these appeals. This was a paramount consideration when we had dismissed the application. And, our apprehension proved correct later in the day.”

The order explained that when Imran spoke in the Thursday hearing, he also “mentioned other cases, the general elections held on February 8, a commission of inquiry and his incarceration”.

The order said that all such matters had “nothing to do” with the subject matter of the appeals.

“This cannot be permitted as it would thwart the proper administration of justice. Commenting on matters not under consideration may affect public perception. The rights of those who are not before us, including their fundamental right to fair trial and due process, may also be affected.”

Addressing the KP AG’s application, the order said the only reason given in its support was that the decision to not live-stream the NAB case proceedings amounted to “discrimination”.

“However, the reason is factually incorrect because only a very few cases have been/are live-streamed. There are also instances of cases which were initially live-streamed but in the interest of justice, it was discontinued. The application also does not cite any law in its support,” the order said.

The court explained that its decision to live-stream some proceedings depended on them being a matter of public interest and 40 hearings had so far been broadcast live.

“This initiative was taken to provide to the general public and lawyers throughout Pakistan direct access to the courtroom in respect of matters of public interest. The objective was manifold, including: educational, openness and transparency, forestalling misreporting or onesided reporting, facilitating lawyers on how best to articulate their propositions, how to effectively conduct cases and how to behave in the courtroom.”

However, the court noted that “the public has shown little or no interest in the matter of whether the amendments made to the National Accountability Ordinance, 1999, are sustainable on the constitutional plane, nonetheless this court, on its own volition was live-streaming the hearing of these appeals.”

The order also pointed out that Imran had not attended 53 hearings of the case and neither he nor the KP government had requested for the proceedings to be broadcast live.

It also pointed out that Imran was now being represented by his legal team and thus there was no need for him to be provided with the video link facility. “However, this facility is being continued,” the order added.

It continued that the KP government was also not a party in the appeals and the advocate general had not explained “why the sudden interest, or desire, for live-streaming, when his government did not join the hearings … let alone make a similar request when this court was hearing the petition.”

“In conclusion, we would like to add that while a request to live broadcast or live-stream may be submitted, and may also be objected to, it is clarified that this, as matters presently stand, is in the exclusive domain of this court,” the order concluded.

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