ISLAMABAD, MAY 31 /DNA/ – WHO Pakistan capped off a successful project with a ceremony thanking Japan for their vital support. Held at the WHO Islamabad Office, the event celebrated the “Rebuilding Together” initiative that revitalized healthcare infrastructure in flood-stricken areas.Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Ambassador Mr. Wada Mitsuhiro, and other dignitaries joined to celebrate the successful completion of the Project.

The devastating monsoon rains that struck Pakistan between mid-July and mid-August 2022 resulted in unprecedented flooding, impacting millions of lives across Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh provinces. Over 600,000 people were displaced, 1.9 million houses damaged, and extensive agricultural losses incurred. The healthcare infrastructure was severely affected, with over 2,000 health facilities damaged. The financial assistance from the government and the people of Japan enabled WHO to timely respond to communicable disease outbreaks and enhance access to essential healthcare through revitalization of damaged healthcare facilities.

In a collaborative effort to strengthen healthcare delivery in Pakistan, WHO has renovated 462 healthcare facilities and provided them with essential equipment and supplies of which 240 have been rehabilitated through Japan’s assistance. These facilities are now managed by the government health authorities, ensuring continued service provision. To empower local healthcare professionals for long-term sustainability, WHO has also invested in capacity building of service providers in various aspects of healthcare delivery including disease surveillance and outbreak response.

Dr LuoDapeng, WHO Representative and Head of Mission in Pakistan,in his welcome remarks,acknowledged the remarkable support by the government and people of Japan stating“We are extremely grateful for the invaluable support from the Government and people of Japan. Their generous contribution has been instrumental in restoring access to essential healthcare for vulnerable communities affected by the floods.This collaborative effort exemplifies the importance of international partnerships in building resilient healthcare systems.”

His Excellency Ambassador Mr. Wada Mitsuhiro appreciated WHO Pakistan’swork and support to the government of Pakistan, noting that“The government of Japan is committed to “Leave No One’s Health Behind” towards achieving the Universal health Coverage. Global Health is central to Japan’s Development Cooperation, and we consider it to be the fundamental pillar of sustainable development.”

WHO Pakistan remains committed to working alongside the Pakistani government and other stakeholders to further strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

RAWALPINDI, MAY 31 /DNA/ – Security forces conducted an intelligence based operation in general area Hassan Khel, Peshawar District on reported presence of terrorists.

During conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location, as result of which Terrorist ringleader Ayaz @ Muhammad and Terrorist Ahmedey @ Koochi were sent to hell, while two other terrorists were injured.

The killed terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against security forces and killing of innocent civilians. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from killed terrorists.

Locals of the area appreciated the operation. Sanitization of the area is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area as the Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.

ISLAMABAD, MAY 29 /DNA/ – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar has welcomed all the international delegates for the Symposium, “From Gandhara to the World” to Pakistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is a great honor to have such esteemed guests.

I could not attend the inaugural session of the Symposium due to some pressing engagements outside Islamabad. I, therefore, requested the honourable Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony to join and welcome you in my place, and he very graciously accepted my request. I am glad that the event has been successful, and you had productive discussions in the Symposium.

Let me extend my heartfelt felicitations to our Buddhist sisters and brothers on the auspicious occasion of Vesak. This important occasion offers us a moment to reflect on the timeless teachings of peace, compassion, and understanding.

The Symposium “From Gandhara to the World,” provided a vital platform to explore our shared heritage and discuss ways to preserve and promote it for future generations.

Pakistan is a proud custodian of several significant sacred Buddhist sites. Gandhara, located in the northwest of Pakistan, is the region which contributed to the spread of Buddhism to the world. This historic land, with its rich cultural and religious legacy, played a pivotal role in the dissemination of Buddhist teachings across Asia.

Several notable historical locations, such as Taxila, Takht-i-Bahi, and the Swat Valley, are home to ancient Buddhist relics and monasteries. These sites were once thriving centers of Buddhist scholarship, attracting monks and scholars from far and wide.

Pakistan is committed to preserving its Buddhist heritage. We encourage joint efforts to promote and protect these historical sites. Collaborative projects in archaeological research and cultural tourism can bring greater awareness to these landmarks. By working together, we can ensure that these sites are not only preserved but also celebrated as part of our collective human history.

Our shared ancient heritage offers a foundation for further strengthening ties between Pakistan and predominantly Buddhist states. By fostering cultural exchange programs, religious tourism, and educational collaborations, we can build stronger bonds of friendship and mutual respect.

Let me also take this opportunity to call for consistent efforts aimed at promoting intercultural and interfaith dialogue. It is the need of the hour that we make efforts for greater understanding, and take a joint stand against the forces of intolerance, violence and hatred against any religion and religious group. We should establish a joint forum focused on dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that our efforts towards peace and understanding continue to grow and flourish.

Religious leaders have a key role to play in guiding their followers towards mutual respect and understanding. Their influence can help bridge divides and promote a culture of coexistence and unity. In this spirit, I urge greater collaboration between Islamic and Buddhist communities worldwide.

Let me, once again, thank you for your visit and your valuable contribution.

ISLAMABAD, /DNA/ – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) strongly reacted to the reluctance of judge to pronounce the verdict in Iddat case despite completion of all proceedings of the case, calling the transfer of the case to another court instead of giving the ruling as a travesty of justice, which was unacceptable and intolerable.

PTI Spokesperson said that the Iddat case was the most ridiculous, absurd and utterly disgraceful case in human history through which the entire system and philosophy of justice was being flouted.

He vehemently condemned the court’s decision to delay the verdict in the most ridiculous and fake case against Imran Khan and his wife, despite the prosecution’s repeated attempts to obstruct justice, which was nothing but a mockery of justice and a sheer violation of human rights.

He stated that PTI Founding Chairman Imran Khan and his wife were subjected to the worst political revenge and unjust imprisonment by sentencing them in two days in sheer violation of justice.

PTI Spokesperson pointed out that during the speedy court proceedings in the case, the lawyers of Imran Khan and his wife were deprived of even the basic right of cross-examination, adding that the petitioner and the prosecution team crossed all limits of rudeness, absurdity and disregard for law and justice during the court proceedings, as they resorted to every shameful tactic to waste the time of the court to prevent the court from making a fair and just decision.

However, he stated that despite continuous resistance from the prosecution, the trial was completed though at snail pace and eventually the verdict was preserved, which was to be delivered on Wednesday, adding that when the court opened at 9 o’clock to pronounce the verdict, the petitioner asked the court for ten minutes to speak against the rules.

PTI Spokesperson went on to say that the judge allowed the petitioner to speak instead of pronouncing the verdict, resultantly the petitioner took half an hour instead of 10 minutes aimed at preventing the court from pronouncing the decision.

He made it clear that PTI Founding Chairman and his wife’s lawyers, party’s officials and workers exercised great restraints and showed full respect for the court and justice.

PTI Spokesperson lamented that a dishonourable and unscrupulous person succeeded in his nefarious scheme and instead of protecting the dignity of the court and the sanctity of justice, the judge surrendered to the prosecution in a sad manner and sought transfer of the case to another court.

He noted that they staged the entire absurd spectacle to keep Imran Khan and his wife unjustly imprisoned and to deprive them of the basic right to justice, adding that goons of the ruling party tried their level best to incite violence and agitation in the court to delay the case but PTI workers foiled the nefarious plan.

PTI spokesperson stated that the case was a political vendetta against Imran Khan and his wife, and that the prosecution’s goal was to keep them in jail and deny them their basic rights.

PTI Spokesperson asked that the chief justice should answer the nation about his justification to remain on his oath or position after the murder of just in broad daylight in the subordinate courts.

He said that the planners of the May 9 false flag operation were hell-bent to make the courts the graveyards of justice.

Judge tells AAG illegal surveillance a crime punishable by law, demands clarity on relevant law

Court Reporter

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court on Wednesday ordered telecommunication companies to refrain from recording phone calls for surveillance purposes, warning that they would be held accountable if their equipment was used for illegal surveillance.

The order came as Justice Babar Sattar of the IHC resumed hearing on a petition challenging the alleged audio leak involving former prime minister Imran Khan’s spouse, Bushra Bibi, and Najam Saqib, the son of former chief justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar.

During the hearing, Justice Sattar asked the lawyer representing the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) why they had not submitted their response.

The lawyer replied that they were unable to submit their response due to the holiday.

Later, Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal Duggal appeared alone on the roster.

Justice Sattar inquired about the law under which citizens’ calls were being recorded.

In response, the additional attorney general stated that under Section 54, the PTA had the authority to record calls.

The court inquired which law authorised the PTA to conduct surveillance.

The AAG said the legal framework allowed it.

The court demanded clarity on the law governing the recording of citizens’ calls. It also instructed the AAG to provide a formal response and specify who had given permission and who had been authorised to record people’s calls.

The AAG sought some time to file a response.

Upon this, the judge expressed annoyance, remarking, “How much time do you need?” and questioned the AAG when the petitions were filed.

The AAG responded that the pleas came in 2023.

At this juncture, the judge remarked, “According to you, no one was allowed to record calls. If you retreat now, there will be consequences. The law states that the federal government can grant permission, but according to you, permission was not granted.”

The court questioned why, if the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministries of Defence and Interior, and PTA had said no one was allowed, permission was granted.

The additional attorney general again requested some time.

Justice Babar Sattar questioned the AAG if he did not know about today’s hearing.

The judge remarked that “these petitions were under consideration for a year. If the federal government lies in court, how will the matter proceed? Reports have been collected from the Prime Minister’s Office and other institutions, and it has been stated in the reports that no one was granted legal interception permission.”

At this, AAG Duggal said his [previous] response was limited to the audio leaks.

Later, Justice Babar Sattar directed the additional attorney general to read the relevant sections of the Telecommunications Act.

Justice Sattar stated that illegal surveillance was a crime punishable by law.

“When the federal government submitted its response, the court took it seriously. If telecommunication companies’ equipment was used for illegal surveillance, they would be held responsible.”

The court ordered the telecommunication companies to refrain from recording phone calls for surveillance purposes.

The British envoy has said in her speech ‘Not all parties were formally permitted to contest the elections and that legal processes were used to prevent some political leaders from participation, and to prevent the use of recognizable party symbols’

Ansar M Bhatti/DNA

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has severely criticised British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriot’s recent speech targeting the South Asian nation’s general elections in 2024, calling on the UK to learn from past mistakes and move on.

In a speech during the Asma Jahangir conference last month, Marriot while quoting British Foreign Secretary David Cameron raised concerns about Pakistan’s February 8 elections.

“…not all parties were formally permitted to contest the elections and that legal processes were used to prevent some political leaders from participation, and to prevent the use of recognisable party symbols,” Britain’s top diplomat had said.

She then noted that Pakistan’s government, civil society, and global players should work to nurture an “open society” and “vibrant democracy” as open societies are transparent.

The top court’s registrar, in a letter to the envoy, said that her criticism of a certain political party being sidelined by stripping it of its symbol was unfounded as it did not follow the law.

The letter, drawing attention to the court’s role, said elections were required to be held within 90 days of the completion of the tenure of the national and provincial assemblies.

However, they did not take place because then-president Arif Alvi and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) were at odds regarding who was empowered to announce the election date.

“The matter was resolved in just 12 days by the Supreme Court, and general elections were held throughout Pakistan on 8 February 2024,” the registrar said.

Previously, it mentioned, that many wanting to contest elections in Pakistan faced a lifetime ban because they were not considered honest and trustworthy (Sadiq and Ameen) by the Supreme Court.

However, a larger seven-member bench overruled the earlier decision, it said, holding that it did not conform to the Constitution and the law.

The registrar said that the law enacted by Parliament (Elections Act, 2017) requires democracy within political parties via the holding of periodical intra-party elections; to forestall autocracy or even dictatorship within them.

To ensure compliance with this democratic principle the law stipulates, it said, that if a political party does not hold intra-party elections, then it would not be eligible for an election symbol.

“A political party (which had itself voted in this law) did not hold the mandated intra-party elections. The Supreme Court reiterated what the law stipulated,” the letter said.

Therefore, the registrar said: “…your Excellency’s criticism with regard to this decision, with utmost respect, was unjustified”.

Updating Britain regarding a recent ruling, it stated: “It was gratifying that your Excellency had repeatedly stressed the importance of open societies’ which you stated are necessary for vibrant democracies. You will be pleased to learn that the Supreme Court has recognised the right to information and vigorously applied it to itself; a copy of its decision is attached as ‘D’”.

“Persisting in the violent undemocratic mistakes of the past condemns present and future generations, and perpetuates cycles of violence. Let us embrace truth, which sets us free,” it added.

Raising some questions, the top court’s letter read: “Should the overthrow of the elected democratic government of Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953, to capture Iranian oil, not be revealed after over seven decades of cover-up? Will this not prove therapeutic for the perpetrator and the victim? Will it not engender trust, possibly friendship, and peace?”

“Ceding to what it described as ‘Jewish Zionist aspirations’, the British government wrote to an individual, its own citizen, on 2 November 1917 conveying its decision to establish a settler-colonial state. This decision was not voted upon by the people of the area who were impacted by it, nor even by your own. The British government, and not Parliament, unilaterally decided it. The Balfour Declaration became the foundation on which an ethnic state was established. Those who had always lived there were excluded from this ethnic state; contained in ghettos, humiliated, deprived, brutalised, maimed and killed.”

Let us step back from the precipice of settler-ethnic superiority. Deaths of thousands of children and many thousands more innocents may unjustifiably come to define a people, which would be an abomination. Let us all stand up and be counted for equality, peace and humanity, the apex court stressed.

“Let us be honest and acknowledge past mistakes in the spirit of openness, advocated by your Excellency. And, jettison the unholy concept of ethnic superiority, and its concomitant humanity — an inferior humanity.”

“The Supreme Court of Pakistan has acknowledged the mistakes made in its past, addressed them in detail, and taken steps to ensure that they are not repeated. Since the Government of His Majesty King Charles III has stressed the need for open societies and democracy, and offered criticism on the decisions of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, reciprocity would presumably be acceptable.”

Ambassador Munir Akram says development will open up avenues for mutually-beneficial relationship in various realms

Foreign Desk

NEW YORK: Pakistan and Saint Lucia, a Caribbean Island country, have formalised their diplomatic relations during a simple ceremony held at the Pakistan Mission in New York on Tuesday.

Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations and his counterpart from Saint Lucia, Ambassador Menissa Rambally, signed the joint communiqué on behalf of their respective countries.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Akram said he was happy to be part of the ceremony that formalised the diplomatic relations between the two friendly countries.

In her remarks on the occasion, Ambassador Rambally expressed her delight at the start of a new but significant chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries.

She said that former West Indies cricketer, Darren Sammy, who belongs to St Lucia, was also an honorary Pakistani citizen, “who would always talk about Pakistan and the hospitality of its people.”

Ambassador Akram added that both Pakistan and St Lucia had been cooperating at multilateral forums including at the Commonwealth, stating that the establishment of formal relations would serve as the basis to expand the bilateral ties.

The Pakistani envoy also mentioned the shared love for cricket between the people of Pakistan and St Lucia.

He believed that the formalisation of diplomatic relations would open up avenues for mutually beneficial relationship in the realms of trade, commerce, political cooperation, and tourism.

“We look forward to the stronger people-to-people bond. There is immense tourism potential in both the countries that can be explored through visits by the tourists,” said Ambassador Akram.

Ambassador Rambally thanked her Pakistani counterpart for hosting the ceremony and stated that she personally “learnt a lot from him”.

The Caribbean envoy said that she was humbled by the remarks of the Pakistan UN envoy for her country and the people.

She added that Pakistan and Saint Lucia already enjoyed wonderful relationship and were actively cooperating at different forums but added that the establishment of formal diplomatic relations would provide an opportunity to further build on the existing relationship.

The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN Ambassador Usman Jadoon, officers of the Pakistan Mission as well as a delegate from the Permanent Mission of Saint Lucia.

DNA

ISLAMABAD, MAY 29: A delegation of esteemed Buddhist leaders called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad today. The delegation is visiting Pakistan to attend a symposium and an exhibition titled “From Gandhara to the World,” organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The delegation included Sri Lanka’s Minister for Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Honorable Vidura Wikramanayaka, Most Venerable Thich Duc Tuan from Vietnam, Most Venerable Anil Sakya from Thailand and Dr Keshabman Shakya from Nepal. 

The Prime Minister warmly welcomed the delegation. He expressed his gratitude for their participation in the Symposium, being held in connection with the ‘Vesak Day’ that commemorates the birth, enlightenment and passing away of Lord Buddha.

The Prime Minister highlighted that Pakistan was proud of its ancient Buddhist heritage, which flourished in the northwest Pakistan in the shape of Gandhara art and culture, over two thousand years ago. He underscored the importance that his government attached to interfaith harmony. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Buddhist scholars and monks to the promotion of interfaith harmony and understanding.

The Buddhist leaders appreciated the Prime Minister’s commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for all religions. They also commended Pakistan’s efforts to preserve and promote its Buddhist heritage sites and cultural artifacts. The delegation members showed their keen desire to collaborate with Pakistan in preserving and promoting Buddhist heritage in Pakistan.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister and the delegation discussed ways to strengthen interfaith dialogue and cooperation, as well as opportunities for cultural and academic exchanges between Pakistan and the Buddhist majority countries.

The meeting concluded with a resolve to continue exploring avenues for mutual understanding and cooperation, and to work together towards a more harmonious and peaceful world. In that connection, the possibility of establishing a joint forum for dialogue and collaboration was especially discussed.

Minister for Religious Affairs Ch. Salik Hussain, Minister Information & Broadcasting and Cultural Heritage Ataullah Tarar, SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi also attended the meeting.