Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Riyadh on Saturday to attend a special meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on 'Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development'.
The premier was received by Riyadh's Deputy Governor Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman. The Pakistani Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmed Farooq was also present, as were other diplomatic staff.
The Kingdom's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and WEF's Executive Chairman Professor Klaus Schwab invited the prime minister to attend.
The Foreign Office (FO) in a press release said that the WEF meeting will be held on April 28-29.
"The invitation has been extended by HRH Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Professor Klaus Schwab, the Founder and Executive Chairman of the WEF," the FO said.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb are accompanying the PM along with a high-level delegation.
The statement further said that the ministers will participate in WEF discussions on issues related to trade and investment measures, new investment frameworks, restructuring of supply chains, sustainable growth, and the energy landscape.
"The high level participation in the Forum will afford an important opportunity to present Pakistan’s priorities specifically in global health architecture, inclusive growth, revitalizing regional collaboration and the need for striking a balance between promoting growth and energy consumption."
PM Shehbaz and his delegation will hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, including the Saudi leadership, heads of international organizations, and other prominent figures participating in the event, the FO concluded.
ISLAMABAD: The launch ceremony Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine prepared in China took place at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Limited in Shuangliu Base, China.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf was special guest at the occasion.
This project will add a new dimension to Pakistan-China friendship.
During the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pakistan, the Pakistani government signed agreements for the acquisition of eight Hangor-class submarines.
According to the agreements, four submarines will be built in China, while the other four will be constructed in Pakistan at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Limited.
These submarines will be equipped with the latest weapons and sensors, capable of targeting objectives from a distance.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated its request for early renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) by the US Congress for enhanced market access to textiles and apparel products.
According to an official statement, 7th Intersessional meeting of Pakistan-United States of America Trade and Investment Framework (TIFA) was held in Islamabad on April 25, 2024. Muhammad Sauleh Ahmad Faruqui, Federal Secretary Ministry of Commerce, led Pakistan’s delegation while the US delegation was led by Brenden Lynch, Assistant United States Trade Representative (USTR).
Both sides deliberated upon a range of trade and investment related matters including agriculture, digital trade, intellectual property protection and enforcement, labor rights, good regulatory practices, and women’s economic empowerment.
EU likely to extend GSP facility for another four years
The US side welcomed the constructive development regarding market access for beef from the United States to Pakistan, whereas Pakistan appreciated the support of US in facilitating market access for its mangoes and fresh dates. Both countries expressed their resolve for removal of barriers for additional agricultural products on reciprocal basis.
The sources said, US side raised issues related to violation of Intellectual Property (IP) by Pakistani companies. Such are regularly reported to Pakistan’s IPO, however, response is very slow.
Official statement noted that both countries recognized the importance of the protection and enforcement of intellectual property. The United States appreciated Pakistan’s recent efforts to further improve the enforcement regime of Intellectual Property.
Both sides further noted with satisfaction the mutual collaboration for Women Economic Empowerment to elevate women’s role in the long-term economic development of Pakistan. In this regard, the mutual cooperation between USAID and TDAP was greatly appreciated.
Pakistan reiterated its request for early renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) by the US Congress for an enhanced market access to textiles and apparel products from Pakistan. The US side assured Pakistan that the request will be considered at appropriate level.
Both sides agreed to plan to hold the 10th TIFA Ministerial-Council meeting at the earliest to continue further dialogue on important bilateral trade issues.
The sources said US side also raised issues related to tariff of wind power projects established by the DFC. Same issues were also raised at a recent meeting in Washington D.C.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Amid threats of unilateral sanctions in case Pakistan goes ahead with the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline project, the Foreign Office said on Friday that Islamabad would explain to Washington the importance of its relations with neighbouring countries as well as its desire to convert Pakistan-Iran border into a “border of peace, security and prosperity.”
“Pakistan does not believe in zero-sum relationships. Expansion of relationship with one country should not be considered at the expense of another country,” Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch told her weekly media briefing when asked to comment on the threats of US sanctions to IP gas pipeline projects and other MoUs of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Iran signed during the recent visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Pakistan.
She said that Pakistan and the United States have robust dialogue and several channels of communication.
IP gas line project: MoFA asks PD to move forward
“We would continue to engage with them and explain the importance that Pakistan accords to its relations with its neighbours, especially its desire to have the Pakistan-Iran border as a border of peace, security, and prosperity,” she added.
“Pakistan is confident that its relationship with its friends and partners, including the United States is robust enough to move forward on their own merits not withstanding any other relationship that Pakistan has with other countries in our national interest,” the spokesperson stated.
She added that Pakistan has trade relations with its neighbour, Iran and we have preferential trade agreement between Pakistan and Iran.
She stated that the border regions of Pakistan and Iran benefit from the local trade that takes place mostly in barter form.
“There are border markets. These are sustenance markets to help the local traders which basically helps the economy of the poor regions along the border of Pakistan and Iran,” she added.
Earlier this week, the State Department deputy spokesperson had warned Pakistan of the “potential risk of sanctions” on going ahead with its business deals and the IP gas project with Iran.
“We advise anyone considering business deals with Iran to be aware of the potential risk of sanctions. But ultimately, the Government of Pakistan can speak to their own foreign policy pursuits,” State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel told the weekly media briefing in Washington on Tuesday.
To another question, Baloch said that the IP gas pipeline project was also discussed among other issues during the recent visit of Iranian President Raisi. She said that Pakistan and Iran believe that the two countries should enhance cooperation in the energy domain.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
Pakistan rejected on Friday provocative statements from Indian leaders “asserting unwarranted claims” over Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, adding that it was witnessing an alarming surge in provocative remarks from the neighbour.
Addressing a weekly press briefing in Islamabad today, Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch urged Indian politicians to cease “their reckless practice of dragging Pakistan into India’s populist public discourse for electoral motives”.
However, the FO spokesperson did not mention any specific statement by an Indian leader.
“Fuelled by hyper-nationalism, this inflammatory rhetoric poses a grave threat to regional peace and susceptibility,” Baloch added.
Pakistan denounces India’s decision to outlaw 14 Kashmiri parties
“Historical and legal facts as well as ground realities refute India’s baseless claims over AJK. Despite India’s rhetoric and assertions, Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognised disputed territory,” the spokesperson said.
She said that the UN Security Council resolutions on the region “clearly outline that the final status of Jammu and Kashmir shall be determined by the will of the people through a free and impartial plebiscite under the UN auspices”.
“India would be wise to help implement these resolutions instead of harbouring delusions of grandeur,” the spokesperson added.
Her statement comes after Iran and Pakistan, in a joint statement, highlighted the need to resolve the Kashmir issue through “dialogue and peaceful means based on the will of the people of that region and in accordance with international law”.
Moreover, the spokesperson said Pakistan “vehemently condemns Israel’s barbarianism and its war crimes against the people of Gaza”.
She said the discovery of mass graves at two major hospitals in Gaza has shocked the human conscience.
“Pakistan joins the call by the United Nations for a clear, transparent and credible investigation of mass graves and the massacre of men, women and children by the Israeli occupation forces,” she added.
Meanwhile, the FO spokesperson announced that PM Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had received invitations from Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and World Economic Forum (WEF) Founder and Chief Executive Professor Klaus Schwab.
The premier and the foreign minister will attend the WEF Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy in Riyadh from April 28-29, the FO spokesperson added.
She further said that PM Shehbaz and FM Dar will also hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, heads of international bodies and other leading personalities on the margins of the event.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will visit Saudi Arabia from April 28-29 to participate in the special meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Riyadh, besides holding bilateral talks with Saudi leadership on issues of mutual interest.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will also be part of the prime minister’s delegation during the two-day visit to the Kingdom being held at the invitation by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Saudi Arabia is hosting the WEF Special Meeting on “global collaboration, growth, and energy for development” on April 28 and 29 in Riyadh in which more than 1,000 global leaders, including heads of state and government, and thought leaders from across the public and private sectors, as well as from international organisations, academic institutions, and non-government organisations will participate in the two-day event.
The agenda of the special meeting has been designed to revive the spirit of cooperation and collaboration, includes several panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, and represents a unique convergence of global leaders and experts committed to forging a path towards a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable world.
Various sessions have been arranged to hold productive dialogues for enhancing global collaboration and stimulate collective international action to devise sustainable solutions in a world marked by growing social and economic disparities, as developed nations surpass pre-pandemic levels of activity, while emerging economies continue to play catch-up.
Informed sources said that the prime minister will attend the opening session of the WEF special meeting and also present Pakistan’s position on the pressing issues on the agenda.
While in Riyadh, the prime minister will also hold bilateral meetings with a number of heads of state and government, including with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Polish Ambassador to Pakistan Ambassador Maciej Pisarski has said that the relations between Pakistan and Poland are based on solid foundations with the potential to increase bilateral trade up to $1 billion.
“We are working with Pakistani partners in the development sector, and the volume of bilateral trade between the two countries is $930 million, with the potential to increase to $1 billion,” the ambassador said here in his interaction at “Meet The Press” at the National Press Club.
He said that 30 percent of Pakistan's exports go to Europe through Poland and Polish investment is present in Sindh and other provinces. “There are friendly and close relations between Poland and Pakistan, and economic cooperation is the center of our relations. Despite the distance, both countries have economic, political, and public ties,” he added.
He added that a Polish gas company is providing Pakistani gas to Pakistani consumers, and Polish companies are playing a role in addressing Pakistan's energy crisis.
“We are also providing humanitarian aid in Gaza, and Polish individuals are working as volunteers in Gaza. Poland has recognised the resolution for the establishment of an independent [Palestinian] state,” the ambassador said.
He said that the relations between Pakistan and Poland are based on solid foundations, and both countries have trade, cultural, and other ties. “My priority is to strengthen the relations between the two countries, and we are working to address Pakistan's energy crisis through Polish companies,” he said.
He said that a vocational school in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has been established and a complete project for women in Hunza, which has been named "Safe Space".
The Polish ambassador further said that Pakistan is affected by environmental changes, and Polish companies are experts in green technology.
Recently, Polish companies showcased their expertise in green technology at an exhibition in Lahore, adding that 30 Polish pilots and instructors had arrived in Pakistan to enhance the capacity of the Pakistan Air Force.
He clarified that the Polish embassy does not charge any fees for interviews and appointments. “Those who demand money are fraudsters, and there is a fake website of the Polish embassy which has my picture on it,” he said.
Speaking on the situation in Gaza, the envoy claimed that Poland is a champion of human rights and follows the UN Charter and the country is providing humanitarian aid in Gaza.
“Polish individuals are working as volunteers in Gaza, and Poland has recognised the resolution for the establishment of an independent state. Palestine has an embassy in Poland,” he said. However, we are in a sensitive and tense environment, and we are facing a war on our border, he said while referring to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has said that Pakistan and Portugal enjoy a multifaceted and friendly relationship marked by shared interests and a common stance on various regional and international matters, including supporting each other at international forums, said a press release.
It is high time to enhance political, cultural, economic, and people-to-people connections between the two countries. He made these remarks during a meeting with the Portuguese Envoy to Pakistan, Manuel Frederico Pinheiro Da Silva, who called on him at the Parliament, on Wednesday.
In the meeting, the two sides discussed a wide range of bilateral, regional, and global issues.
They expressed contentment with the current state of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their joint resolve to further expanding and diversifying mutually beneficial cooperation.
While discussing parliamentary relations, the speaker underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties, particularly through expanding cooperation between parliamentary friendship groups and the exchange of parliamentary delegations.
He also mentioned to extend invitation to his Portuguese counterpart to visit Pakistan along with the parliamentary delegation.
Discussing trade and economic cooperation, the speaker mentioned Pakistan's proactive efforts in creating a conducive environment for economic and trade activities, providing friendly countries with significant investment opportunities and benefits.
The speaker also highlighted that Pakistan has ample tourism opportunities especially ancient Buddhism heritage can be a potential driver for closer ties between the two nations.
The ambassador expressed gratitude for the speaker's kind remarks and reiterated that Portugal views Pakistan as an important regional stakeholder.
He expressed a desire to further strengthen linkages in areas of mutual interest, in addition to fostering parliamentary and cultural exchanges.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
KARACHI: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan this week put the spotlight on a major gas pipeline deal between the two neighbours which has faced delays due to geopolitical issues and international sanctions.
Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline: a case that deserves greater attention
The two nations reiterated the importance of cooperation in the energy domain, including trade in electricity, power transmission lines and the IP Gas Pipeline Project, a joint statement released following the culmination of the visit said.
Here are some facts about the project, which is also known as the Peace Pipeline:
The pipeline deal, signed in 2010, envisaged the supply of 750 million to a billion cubic feet per day of natural gas for 25 years from Iran’s South Pars gas field to Pakistan to meet Pakistan’s rising energy needs.
The pipeline was to stretch over 1,900 kilometres (1,180 miles) - 1,150 km within Iran and 781 km within Pakistan.
Tehran says it has already invested $2 billion to construct the pipeline on its side of the border, making it ready to export.
Pakistan, however, did not begin construction and shortly after the deal said the project was off the table for the time being, citing international sanctions on Iran as the reason.
Iran’s oil minister at the time responded by saying that Iran carried out its commitments and expects Pakistan to honour its own, adding that Pakistan needs to pick up the pace of work.
In 2014, Pakistan asked for a 10-year extension to build the pipeline, which expires in September this year. Iran can take Pakistan to international court and fine the country. Local media reported that Pakistan can be fined up to $18 billion for not holding up its half of the agreement.
Faced with a potential fine, Pakistan’s caretaker administration earlier this year gave the go ahead in principal to commence plans to build an 80-km segment of the pipeline.
IP gas pipeline project: Work begins ahead of Iran president’s visit
In March, Islamabad said it would seek a U.S. sanctions waiver for the pipeline. However, later that week, the U.S. said publicly it did not support the project and cautioned about the risk of sanctions in doing business with Tehran.
Washington’s support is crucial for Pakistan as the country looks to sign a new longer term bailout programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in coming weeks.
Pakistan, whose domestic and industrial users rely on natural gas for heating and energy needs, is in dire need for cheap gas with its own reserves dwindling fast and LNG deals making supplies expensive amidst already high inflation.
Iran has the world’s second-largest gas reserves after Russia, according to BP’s Statistical Review of World Energy, but sanctions by the West, political turmoil and construction delays have slowed its development as an exporter.
Originally, the deal also involved extending the pipeline to India, but Delhi later dropped out of the project.
ISLAMABAD: Iran and Pakistan called on the United Nations Security Council in a joint statement issued on Wednesday to take action against Israel, saying it had "illegally" targeted neighbouring countries and foreign diplomatic facilities.
The joint statement, released by Pakistan's foreign ministry, followed a three-day visit to the country by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Explosions were heard last Friday over the Iranian city of Isfahan in what sources said was an Israeli attack. However, Tehran played down the incident and said it had no plans for retaliation.
"Recognising that the irresponsible act of the Israeli regime forces was a major escalation in an already volatile region, both sides called on the UN Security Council to prevent the Israeli regime from its adventurism in the region and its illegal acts attacking its neighbours...," Iran and Pakistan said in their joint statement.
Muslim neighbours Iran and Pakistan are seeking to mend ties after unprecedented tit-for-tat military strikes this year.
Raisi, who wrapped up his visit and flew on to Sri Lanka on Wednesday, vowed to boost trade between Iran and Pakistan to $10 billion a year.
During his visit to Pakistan, Raisi was quoted by Iran's official IRNA news agency as saying any further Israeli attack on Iranian territory could radically change the dynamics and result in there being nothing left of the "Zionist regime".
On April 13, Tehran launched a barrage of missiles and drones at Israel in what it said was retaliation for Israel's suspected deadly strike on the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus on April 1, but almost all were shot down.
Pakistan has previously called for de-escalation by "all parties".
Iran and Pakistan vowed during Raisi's visit to boost trade and energy cooperation, including on a major gas pipeline deal that has faced delays due to geopolitical issues and international sanctions.
Finalise Free Trade Agreement
Meanwhile, in the joint statement, it was stressed that there was a need to further strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.
"The two neighboring countries agreed to expeditiously finalise the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and hold the next sessions of Annual Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) and Joint Business Trade Committee (JBTC) as well as the 22nd round of the negotiations of the Joint Economic Commission (JEC) in the near future," a statement by the foreign ministry said.
"They also agreed to facilitate regular exchange of economic and technical experts, as well as delegations from Chambers of Commerce from both countries to intensify economic cooperation," as per the joint statement.
The declaration of the ‘Reemdan border point’ as an international border crossing point under TIR and opening of the remaining two border sustenance markets was also agreed.
Release prisoners
The two sides also expressed their agreement to release each others’ prisoners and take measures for their extradition based on the Treaty for the Extradition of Criminals and the Accused between Iran And Pakistan approved by the two countries in 1960 and the Agreement on the Transfer of Convicts between the two countries approved in 2016.
Collaborative approach to confront terrorism
Both sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and "recognized that terrorism posed a common threat to regional peace and stability and presented a major impediment to the development of the region", the joint statement read.
The two leaders agreed to adopt a collaborative approach to confront this menace and to leverage the existing bilateral institutional mechanisms to effectively combat and counter this threat, while fully upholding the principles of the UN Charter.
Reaffirm commitment to development of Afghanistan
Pakistan and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to the development of Afghanistan, and reaffirmed their willingness to enhance cooperation on counter-terrorism and security and to develop a united front against terrorism.
"While respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, the two sides recognized that increasing participation of all strata of Afghans in basic decision-making will lead to the strengthening of peace and stability in this country."
DUBAI: An Israeli attack on Iranian territory could radically change dynamics and result in there being nothing left of the “Zionist regime”, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi was quoted as saying on Tuesday by the official IRNA news agency.
Raisi began a three-day visit to Pakistan on Monday and has vowed to boost trade between the neighbouring nations to $10 billion a year.
The two Muslim neighbours are seeking to mend ties after unprecedented tit-for-tat military strikes this year. On Friday, explosions were heard over the Iranian city of Isfahan in what sources said was an Israeli attack but Tehran played down the incident and said it had no plans for retaliation.
Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones at Israel on April 13 in what it said was retaliation for Israel's suspected deadly strike on its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1, but almost all were shot down.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran will honourably continue to support the Palestinian resistance," Raisi added in the speech in Lahore.
TEXT: Iranian President Dr Ebrahim Raisi said a key decision to increase bilateral trade volume to $10 billion has been reached as he addressed a high-profile joint press conference with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Monday.
Iranian President Dr Ebrahim Raisi said a key decision to increase bilateral trade volume to $10 billion has been reached as he addressed a high-profile joint press conference with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Monday.
“In our meeting today, we (have) decided to promote bilateral relations between the two countries including political, economical, trade, cultural and others as far as possible,” said Raisi who arrived in Pakistan earlier during the day amid stringent security measures.
“You will probably find some individuals who do not favour expansion and good bilateral relations between us but who cares – it is not important. We believe it is important to expand relations between our countries,” added the Iranian president.
“We have decided as a first step to increase trade volume between our two countries to $10 billion.”
The two sides – which currently have bilateral trade of over $2 billion – also held a meeting earlier, and agreed on joint efforts to eradicate terrorism.
“The entire Pakistani nation welcomes the visit of the Iranian President,” Radio Pakistan quoted the PM as saying.
In his address, PM Shehbaz said that the two sides discussed religious, security and historic matters during their meeting.
“Today is an opportunity to make this friendship a happy and prosperous one.”
Pakistan, Iran sign eight accords
Meanwhile, Pakistan and Iran signed eight accords on varying subjects to enhance cooperation in the different fields including trade, science technology, agriculture, health, culture, and judicial matters.
PM Shehbaz and President Raisi witnessed the ceremony as the representatives from both sides signed the documents, state-run APP reported earlier.
“The two sides will have a wide-ranging agenda to further strengthen Pakistan-Iran ties and enhance cooperation in diverse fields including trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people contacts,” the FO said.
“They will also discuss regional and global developments and bilateral cooperation to combat the common threat of terrorism,” it added.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The United States (US) has cautioned Pakistan about potential risks associated with its trade agreements with Iran.
According to a private TV channel, the US State Department spokesperson in a statement emphasized the possibility of sanctions that could affect Pakistan’s trade.
The US spokesperson highlighted that Pakistan is one of the largest export markets for the United States, particularly in terms of agricultural produce.
The US State Department spokesperson advised Pakistan to be aware of the potential risks of sanctions related to trade deals with Iran. Furthermore, the spokesperson stated that the United States is not reviewing any sanctions and looking forward to continuing our partnership with Pakistan.
“So what’s up?” “The US has warned against trade pacts with Iran…” “Indeed, and Pakistan has a trade surplus with the US.”
“Right, but if trade can be upped with Iran to the tune of 10 billion dollars then that would surpass trade with the US right – I mean on average our trade with the US has been a little under 9 billion dollars…”
“Yes, but the US invests in our deficient social and physical infrastructure sector and…”
“Yes, but if we implement the multilaterals’ mandated reforms, we will move towards self-sufficiency and perhaps…”
“And the heavy reliance on multilateral support may kind of dissipate as they are headed by the US, Europe or Japan and…”
“But isn’t our objective to end all such assistance…”
“Correct, but given the current state of the economy, the promise of enhanced trade in the next five years isn’t going to help us much today, if you know what I mean.”
“That’s true, so what next?”
“Next I guess as the Americans say same o same o.”
“Unless China or Russia meet the slack.”
“Don’t play a dangerous game now: as they say, a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.”
“You know, the origin of this expression dates back to medieval falconry…”
“Our Arab brothers still enjoy falconry.”
“OK, but the expression referred to a bird in hand, which was the falcon, and the two in the bush referred to the prey.”
“Pray? That doesn’t make sense.”
“Prey as in the quarry, the target, the kill.”
“Oh, I get it, so who is the prey? Us or…or…them?”
“The prey at present is us, and the falcon is…is them?”
“Do you want to qualify that.”
“Not at the present moment. Give us time to sort our economy and then ask me this question.”
“Right.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
ISLAMABAD: A 2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices by the US State Department presented a grim picture of alleged human rights abuses in Pakistan, ranging from what is called ‘arbitrary killings, extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearance, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by the government, arbitrary detention, political prisoners, to the use of derogatory terms such as “Jewish agent” to attack individuals and groups or referred to “Zionist conspiracies.”’
The State Department released the annual “Country Reports on Human Rights Practices” later on Tuesday in Washington, pointing out that there were no significant changes in the human rights situation in Pakistan during the year.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office has yet not commented on the report to give an official stance of the government of Pakistan on the contents of the report.
US report on human rights finds many problems in Pakistan
The report noted the alleged trans-national repression against individuals in another country, arbitrary or unlawful interference with privacy, punishment of family members for alleged offences by a relative, serious abuses in a conflict, including reportedly unlawful civilian deaths and enforced disappearance, serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including violence against journalists, unjustified arrests and disappearances of journalists, censorship, criminal defamation laws, and laws against blasphemy, serious restrictions on internet freedom, substantial interference with the freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of association, etc.
It also pointed out the alleged overly restrictive laws on the operation of nongovernmental organisations and civil society organisations, restrictions of religious freedom, restrictions on freedom of movement, coerced or forced return of individuals to a country where they would likely face torture or persecution, serious government corruption, serious government restrictions on domestic and international human rights organisations.
It further referred to the alleged extensive gender-based violence, including domestic or intimate partner violence, sexual violence, crimes involving violence or threats of violence targeting members of religious, racial and ethnic minorities including members of the Pashtun and Hazara communities.
Furthermore, the report also highlighted the alleged threats of violence motivated by anti-Semitism, enforcement of laws criminalising consensual same-sex sexual conduct between adults, crimes involving violence or threats of violence targeting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or inter-sex persons; and significant or systematic restrictions on workers’ freedom of association.
The report also referred to numerous reports claiming that the “government or its agents” allegedly committed arbitrary or unlawful killings, including extrajudicial killings, during the year.
It further stated that the government entities generally investigated whether security force killings were justifiable and whether to pursue prosecutions via an order either from the inspector general of police or through the National Commission for Human Rights.
“Physical abuse of criminal suspects in custody allegedly caused the injury or death of individuals. Lengthy trial delays at the start and conclusion of trials and failure to effectively investigate, discipline, and prosecute those responsible for killings contributed to a culture of impunity,” the report further maintained.
It also noted that there was a significant increase in attacks against police and security forces. According to the independent think tank Centre for Research and Security Studies, there were at least 386 reported deaths of police and military personnel in terrorist attacks and counter-terror operations during the first three quarters of the year. The number of attacks and casualties were higher than in 2022 or 2021.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
Iranian President Dr Ebrahim Raisi said a key decision to increase bilateral trade volume to $10 billion has been reached as he addressed a high-profile joint press conference with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Monday.
“In our meeting today, we (have) decided to promote bilateral relations between the two countries including political, economical, trade, cultural and others as far as possible,” said Raisi who arrived in Pakistan earlier during the day amid stringent security measures.
“You will probably find some individuals who do not favour expansion and good bilateral relations between us but who cares – it is not important. We believe it is important to expand relations between our countries,” added the Iranian president.
“We have decided as a first step to increase trade volume between our two countries to $10 billion.”
The two sides – which currently have bilateral trade of over $2 billion – also held a meeting earlier, and agreed on joint efforts to eradicate terrorism.
“The entire Pakistani nation welcomes the visit of the Iranian President,” Radio Pakistan quoted the PM as saying.
In his address, PM Shehbaz said that the two sides discussed religious, security and historic matters during their meeting.
“Today is an opportunity to make this friendship a happy and prosperous one.”
Pakistan, Iran sign eight accords
Meanwhile, Pakistan and Iran signed eight accords on varying subjects to enhance cooperation in the different fields including trade, science technology, agriculture, health, culture, and judicial matters.
PM Shehbaz and President Raisi witnessed the ceremony as the representatives from both sides signed the documents, state-run APP reported earlier.
The Iranian president’s visit comes at a significant time especially in terms of rising tension in the region amid the Israeli aggression in Gaza, its attack on the Iranian consulate, and Iran’s subsequent retaliation followed by strikes on its territory.
With terrorism incidents also on the rise in Pakistan, Raisi arrived in Pakistan on a three-day official visit – amid stringent security measures – accompanied by his spouse and a high-level delegation, comprising the foreign minister and other members of the cabinet, senior officials and a business delegation.
He was received by Federal Minister Riaz Hussain Pirzada.
The Iranian president then arrived at the Prime Minister’s House where he was received by PM Shehbaz. He was also presented with a guard of honour.
This is the first visit by any head of state to Pakistan after the February 8 general elections.
The leader’s visit comes after Tehran launched an unprecedented retaliatory attack on Israel last week.
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised the country’s armed forces for their “success in recent events”.
“The armed forces showed a good image of their abilities and power and an admirable image of the Iranian nation,” Khamenei said.
“They also proved the emergence of the power of the Iranian nation’s determination at the international level.”
Meanwhile, a statement issued by the Foreign Office (FO) had said Raisi will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani and National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.
“He will also visit Lahore and Karachi and meet with the provincial leadership,” it added.
“The two sides will have a wide-ranging agenda to further strengthen Pakistan-Iran ties and enhance cooperation in diverse fields including trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people contacts,” the FO said.
“They will also discuss regional and global developments and bilateral cooperation to combat the common threat of terrorism,” it added.
“Pakistan and Iran enjoy strong bilateral ties anchored in history, culture and religion. This visit provides an important opportunity to further strengthen Pakistan-Iran relations,” the FO concluded.
The visit also comes months after Iran launched attacks in Pakistan targeting what it described as bases for the militant group Jaish al-Adl in the border town of Panjgur in Balochistan, prompting strong condemnation from Islamabad and downgrading of diplomatic ties.
Iran missile strikes: Pakistan recalls envoy
Less than 48 hours later, Pakistan struck terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province. Reacting to the strikes, Iran had stressed that it would not allow its enemies to strain its “amicable and brotherly relations” with Islamabad.
The situation and bilateral ties, however, soon normalised with both countries resuming diplomatic engagement.
However, a thorny issue between the two sides remains the incomplete portion on Pakistani side of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, which Islamabad says is subject to Washington’s agreement due to sanctions on Iranian entities.
Public holiday announced
A public holiday was announced in Karachi Division on Tuesday (tomorrow) in view of the “visit of foreign dignitaries and to avoid inconvenience to the general public”.
As per a notification issued from the Commissioner Karachi office, all government and private offices, educational institutions (public/private), would remain closed on Tuesday except the essential services and officials involved in emergency duties.
KARACHI: Petroleum dealers in Pakistan have warned of shutting down business as the government is reportedly working to deregulate petroleum products’ prices.
In a statement, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) Chairman Abdul Sami Khan rejected the likely move, saying that it will result in hiked prices of petroleum products in far-flung areas.
According to the PPDA chief, the move to deregulate petroleum prices will bring skyrocketing inflation in the country.
Khan said that the petroleum dealers have been urging against the move for years and the government has also promised that it will not take such a measure.
However, the PPDA chairman said that despite the promise, the government has asked for recommendations from the ECC regarding the potential plan.
Khan claimed that the government, by such a move, was attempting to save itself from criticism of the people.
Days earlier, the Oil Tankers Owners Association announced that fuel supply would remain suspended from April 16 against what it called an ‘injustice’ measurement by the authorities concerned.
The association said that it would not be supplying petroleum products in Gilgit Baltistan, Rawalpindi, Islamabad and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and even at all airports across the country.
ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has not yet included Pakistan on the agenda of its executive board meetings scheduled till May 1.
According to the Fund website, the IMF issued the schedule of the executive board meeting set to be held on April 29 and May 1, but a review under the $ 3 billion stand-by arrangement (SBA) programme with Pakistan is not on the agenda.
Pakistan aims to agree outline of new IMF loan in May: Aurangzeb
Pakistan is hoping the approval from the executive board which would pave the way for the country to receive funds of around $1.1 billion as its final tranche of the $3-billion SBA signed last year in June 2023.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Unknown gunmen killed two customs officers in western Pakistan, officials said on Sunday, following the killing of five other customs officials in the area in recent days.
No group has claimed responsibility for the two attacks since Thursday, which police said they were investigating. Security in regions of Pakistan bordering Afghanistan has deteriorated in recent years.
Pakistan has experienced an increase in attacks, mostly targeting police, and security officials.
“Customs officials were present for checks when unknown persons opened fire,” said the district deputy superintendent of police, Muhammad Adnan, adding that two people were injured and the area on a busy highway had been cordoned off.
“Three days ago, five officials, including an officer, of the customs department, were killed in a shooting in the same area and the attackers escaped,” he said.
Five Japanese escape unhurt in Karachi suicide blast attack
The rise in attacks has escalated tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban administration. Pakistan, saying militants have been using Afghan territory to launch attacks, has called on the Taliban to take action and carried out an airstrike last month on Afghan territory.
The Taliban have denied allowing the use of Afghan soil for militancy and said Pakistan’s security issues are a domestic issue for Islamabad.
Pakistan carries out anti-terrorist operations inside Afghanistan, confirms FO
Last month, Pakistan carried out intelligence-based anti-terrorist operations inside Afghanistan in response to multiple terrorist attacks in Pakistan which caused the deaths of hundreds of civilians and law enforcement officials.
This is apropos a letter to the Editor by this writer carried by the newspaper yesterday. Assuming this theory holds true, let’s consider the potential benefits for the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, as well as the broader impact on the Middle East under these circumstances.
By leveraging Pakistan’s diplomatic influence, the US could advance dialogue with Iran to potentially de-escalate tensions in the region, achieve guarantees from Iran in lieu of restraining from imposing further economic and financial sanction on Iran to preserve the safety of the world supply chain, prevent Iran from using its proxies to escalate tension in the Middle East and protect Israeli interests in the region.
Saudi Arabia may view Pakistan’s diplomatic interlocution as an opportunity to mitigate regional tensions and foster stability in the Gulf, obtain guarantees of cessation of attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea to ensure uninterrupted supply of its petroleum products, the mainstay of its economy, and prevent spread Israel-Hamas-Iran stand off to other parts of the Middle East which could have disastrous consequence for the entire Middle East and the world peace.
For Pakistan, acting as a mediator between the US, KSA and Iran carries significant diplomatic and economic advantages. It could enhance Pakistan’s regional influence and reinforce its position as a key player in Middle Eastern affairs. Moreover, attracting substantial investments from Saudi Arabia would bolster Pakistan’s economy and contribute to its long-term development goals. Reducing tensions between KSA and Iran and Iran and USA will pave the way for broader cooperation and confidence-building measures in the Middle East. It would enhance the diplomatic status of Pakistan which in the long run would help it to improve its financial and economic outlook.
If Pakistan effectively contributes to regional diplomacy and helps de-escalate tensions in the region and continue its policy of hand off from Israel-Hamas-Iran staff off, and succeeds in establishing a viable and sustainable communication channel between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the United States could be more inclined to support the release of the outstanding $1.1 billion tranche under Pakistan’s existing Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with the IMF and could pave the way for the approval of a new three-year IMF programme for Pakistan.
Above all, this will open the door for Saudi investment in Pakistan. The US might turn a blind eye as Pakistan and Iran finally complete the long-awaited gas pipeline, allow affordable power and oil to flow from Iran, facilitate the next rollover of Saudi and UAE deposits, and allow the IMF to enter into a long-term agreement with Pakistan.
Should this theory prove to be accurate, Pakistan is pursuing innovative and unorthodox diplomatic strategies during a global period marked by a convoluted geopolitical terrain.
Pakistan’s success in this creative and inventive diplomacy will be beneficial in a variety of ways. Pakistan will be able to overcome its diplomatic isolation and regain relevance by managing the most delicate and sensitive diplomatic maneuvering in the globe. It would ensure better possibilities for peace in the Middle East and smooth, risk-free exports of Saudi Arabia’s oil products. If this diplomatic move is successful, there is a greater chance that Israel and Hamas would reach a peace agreement, which would provide the Palestinian people some relief.
Qamar Bashir
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
