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Volume 13 Issue 350 Muharrum 25, 1435 AH / November 29, 2013 - $1

SNOWDEN LEAK REVEALS U.S. SPIED DURING G20 SUMMIT IN TORONTO

Proclamation by City of Vancouver recognizing 50 years of Pakistan Canada Association and Al-Jamia Masjid Vancouver.

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B.C. HAS CANADA’S HIGHEST CHILD POVERTY RATE, REPORT SAYS Measuring poverty is an inexact science, but no matter how the statistics are analyzed they look bad for British Columbia, which has the highest child poverty rate in Canada, according to a coalition of health, justice and social service groups. The organization, First Call: BC Child and Youth Advocacy Coalition, released a report Tuesday based on Statistics Canada data that shows more than 18 per cent of children in the province live below the low-income cutoff, which is synonymous with the poverty line. “This is higher than any other province and more than 5 percentage points higher than the Canadian average,” the coalition said. The report also found that nearly onethird of the children living in poverty in B.C. belong to families where at least one parent is working full time.

Stephanie Cadieux, B.C.’s Minister of Children and Family Development, said the government is trying

to deal with the problem by “growing the economy, creating jobs and providing supports where they are most needed.” But Adrienne Montani, provincial co-ordinator of First Call, said that approach is failing because the number of children living in poverty in B.C. climbed by 4 per cent from 2010 to 2011, the most recent period for which Statistics Canada data is available. “There is a lack of focus [on this problem] from government,” she said. “Their policy of leaving it to market forces just isn’t working.” Ms. Cadieux disagreed.

“Our focus on jobs is working,” she said in an e-mail. “B.C.’s singledigit unemployment rates across every region in the province are a positive sign that we are on track for continued economic growth. That growth allows government to continue providing targeted supports to lowincome families.”

She said the B.C.

government has invested $3.6-billion over the last decade to provide affordable housing, and more than 98,000 households currently benefit from that program. Ms. Cadieux said the government also plans to add 2,000 child-care spaces to the already existing 100,000 spaces. Despite such efforts, however, the data shows that 153,000 children were living in poverty in B.C. in 2011, up from 119,000 the year before. “B.C. stands out as having done the least among all provinces to bring down child and family poverty,” Ms. Montani said. “We’re not doing enough.

If families come first then public policy should reflect that.” Among other things, Ms. Montani said, the province should raise the minimum wage to $12 an hour, welfare rates should be brought up to the aftertax poverty line, and an independent

Canada allowed the U.S. National Security Agency to spy on the 2010 G20 meeting in Toronto, according to a CBC report citing a leaked document from Edward Snowden. On Wednesday evening, CBC reported it had obtained documents outlining “a six-day spying operation by the National Security Agency” that Canada had allowed to be run out of the U.S. embassy in Ottawa. It is rare for one country to give any ally explicit permission to run spying operations on domestic soil. According to the CBC report, Canada did just that in giving a nod to the secret NSA operation to spy on G20 leaders. Asked about the allegations, a spokesman for Prime Minister Stephen Harper declined to detail what Canadian authorities knew. “We do not comment on operational matters related to national security. Our security organizations have independent oversight mechanisms to ensure that they fulfill their mandate in accordance with the law,” said Jason MacDonald, Mr. Harper’s director of communications, in a written statement Wednesday evening.

The NSA is a very close counterpart of the Communications Security Establishment Canada, Ottawa’s eavesdropping agency. A previous Snowden leak suggested that CSEC and the NSA assisted Britain’s Government Communications Headquarters in spying on the previous G20 meeting, which was held in 2009 in London. The NSA, GCHQ, and CSEC, and Australian and New Zealand counterpart agencies, have been running spying operations together since the end of the Second World War. Collectively, these agen-

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Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

P A K I S T A N

Lt Gen Raheel Sharif chosen as new army chief

After weeks of intense speculation in the media, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has finally made the selection of two senior army officers as Chief of Army Staff and Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee.

Career infantry officer Lt Gen Raheel Sharif has been appointed as the new COAS, while Lt Gen Rashad Mahmood has been appointed the CJCSC. According to a notification issued by the ministry of defence, Lt Gen Raheel Sharif and Lt Gen Rashad Mahmood have been promoted to the rank of four-star general with effect from Thursday, Nov 28.

Both generals would take up their new posts from Friday, the day the current Army chief Kayani retires.

Lt Gen Raheel is currently serving as Inspector General Training and Evaluation whereas Lt Gen Mahmood is serving as Chief of General Staff.

Raheel Sharif holds the Hilal-i-Imtiaz military award, and is the younger brother of late Major Shabbir Sharif, who received the Nishan-i-Haider for his bravery in the 1971 war.

Both senior military officials met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif earlier today where the premier conveyed them the decision. The two meetings were viewed as immensely significant as they came a day before General Kayani’s re-

tirement from his post of army chief.

The prime minister had sent to the president, who is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, a summary to promote the two generals and approve their appointments.

The summary was approved, following which the notification was issued by the defence ministry.

“On the advice of the Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and in pursuance of Article 243/4(a) and 243/4(b) of the Constitution of Pakistan, President of Pakistan and Supreme Commander of Armed Forces, Mamnoon Hussain has been pleased to promote and appoint Gen. Rashid Mehmood as Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Gen. Raheel Sharif as Chief of the Army Staff,” said a statement from the PM House.

Raheel’s selection as army chief selection implies that frontrunner and the senior most military officer Lt Gen Haroon Aslam, currently serving as Chief of Logistic Staff, was ignored for the elevation.

The post of army chief is arguably the most powerful in Pakistan and anxiety prevailed on who will replace the taciturn, chain-smoking General Kayani, who will step down on Friday after six years at the helm.

General Kayani’s retirement from the post comes after rules were relaxed to grant him an extension in July 2010 by the PPP-led coalition government in what then prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said was in the interest of continuity at a time when the war on terror was successfully continuing against elements who wanted to impose a system of their choice on the country.

Source: The Dawn

Govt names new chief justice

President Mamnoon Hussain on Wednesday approved the appointment of Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani as the country’s next chief justice.

The president approved the appointment on the recommendation of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry will retire on December 11 following which the senior most judge of the Supreme Court, Justice Jillani, will take up the office on December 12.

Currently, Justice Jillani also holds the office of chief election commissioner.

Earlier, the Supreme Court registrar’s office had written to President Mamnoon Hussain seeking a timeframe for the oath taking ceremony.

According to reports, the ceremony will be held at the

Presidency on December 12.

Justice Jillani took oath as judge of the Lahore High Court on August 7, 1994 and was elevated to the Supreme Court on July 31, 2004 where he served until imposition of the state of emergency on November 3, 2007.

After he refused to take fresh oath, he was made dysfunctional. After restoration of democracy and elected government in Pakistan, he again joined the Supreme Court as its judge in September 2009.

Former president Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf had imposed emergency rule in the country on November 3, 2007.

Musharraf stepped down as army chief later the same month and lost a general election in February 2008. agencies Source: Daily Times

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PTI sit-ins to block Nato supplies enter fifth day The protesters have been blocking the supplies at five different points in KP against US drone attacks.

Dozens of trucks were stopped by political workers on Wednesday to ensure that the containers were not meant for Nato forces stationed in Afghanistan.

PTI says a case should be lodged against US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief and its station chief in Islamabad since the unmanned aircraft are operated by the secret agency.

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Source: The News

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4 I N T E R N A T I O N A L UN sets January date for Further delays for US deal with Afghanistan Syria peace talks Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

The United Nations has set a date for talks between the Syrian government and opposition, in an attempt to push through the first such meeting since the start of the country’s 32-monthold war. The UN secretary general, Ban Kimoon, said on Monday that the conference, to be held in Geneva on January 22, was “a mission of hope” to end the civil war and agree a transitional government “with full executive powers”. However Laui Safi, a spokesman for the opposition Syrian National Coalition, said shortly after the announcement that the group would only attend if the Syrian regime met its preconditions: the release of prisoners and relief for besieged towns, and that the current president, Bashar al-Assad, has no part to play in the new transitional government. The SNC has also said it would need the support of all rebel brigades on the ground, including alQaeda-affiliated groups, before it began peace talks. Al Jazeera’s diplomatic editor, James Bays, said that setting a date was no guarantee that talks would go ahead, and was announced

more out of frustration than a clear plan. “The UN has tried to coax the opposition to the table previously. When that didn’t work, they have had to set a date to try to force them to the table. Delegations will probably attend, but will they represent those on the ground? Probably not” The announcement was made after talks between the UN’s peace envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi, met Russian and US diplomats on Monday in Geneva. Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr said that the Assad regime was itself emboldened, had the upper hand on the ground militarily, and felt strengthened by Iran, its main ally, returning to the international fold following the agreement to suspend its nuclear programme in return for easing of sanctions. The US secretary of state, John Kerry, said in a statement: “We are well aware that the obstacles on the road to a political solution are many, and we will enter the Geneva conference on Syria with our eyes wide open.”

Source: Al-Jazeera

President Barack Obama has staunchly defended the newly brokered nuclear deal with Iran by saying its critics’ tough talk was good for politics but not for US security. Top Republicans as well as US ally Israel - have criticised Obama for agreeing to the deal, which the United States and its partners say may ultimately prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear bomb. Under the interim deal, Iran will accept restrictions on its nuclear programme in exchange for limited relief from economic sanctions that have gradually crippled its economy and slashed its oil exports. “Huge challenges remain, but we cannot close the door on diplomacy, and we cannot rule out peaceful solutions to the world’s problems. We cannot commit ourselves to an endless cycle of conflict,” Obama said to critics of the deal. “Tough talk and bluster may be the easy thing to do politically, but it’s not the right thing for our security.” Sunday’s agreement, hammered out in marathon talks between six major powers and Iran in Geneva, aims to buy time to negotiate a comprehensive deal that the Obama administration hopes will lay to rest international concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. Israel, however, has argued that a partial deal is a bad deal and that easing sanctions, even temporarily, decreases the leverage that the US and others have over Iran.

Having lost its battle to stop the international deal reached this week on Iran’s nuclear programme, Israeli officials are already picking up the pieces and planning a fight to shape a final agreement that negotiators hope to reach in six months. Israeli officials have said the final deal

must go beyond freezing Iran’s programme and roll back the achievements they say has made the Islamic Republic a threshold weapons state.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, who believes Iran is determined to produce a nuclear bomb, harshly condemned Sunday’s agreement between Iran and six world powers as a “historic mistake” and said Israel was not bound by the deal. Obama, who has long been criticised for his desire to engage with US foes, took heat as a presidential candidate in 2008 for saying he would talk to Iran, which has not had diplomatic relations with Washington for more than three decades. On Monday, however, he alluded to those foreign policy goals during remarks that were otherwise focused on immigration reform. He noted that he had ended the war in Iraq and would end the war in Afghanistan next year, two things he also pledged to do as a candidate. “When I first ran for president I said it was time for a new era of American leadership in the world, one that turned the page on a decade of war and began a new era of our engagement with the world,” he said during a visit to San Francisco. “As president and as commander in chief, I’ve done what I said.”

Though the agreement forged in Geneva over the weekend is a first step, the White House sees it as a form of vindication for policies that Obama espoused long before he won the White House. If Tehran follows through on its part of the pact, Obama said, it would chip away at years of mistrust between the two countries.

Source: Al-Jazeera

Obama defends Iran nuclear deal

Child: Continued from pg 1 commission on tax reform should be struck to recommend ways to reduce income inequality.

Ted Bruce, executive director of population health for the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, said government policies that reduce poverty rates make economic sense. “What the statistics show is that children who live in low-income situations proportionately are more vulnerable.

Their opportunities for developing and learning are not as good as others and that’s what can contribute to, in the longer term, the development of various problems, including eventually chronic diseases,” he said. “We know that people in lower socioeconomic communities generally have higher hospitalization rates than others … so there’s definitely a cost to society.” A Statistics Canada report on low-income children notes that “defining and measuring poverty among children is not straightforward, not only because for the most part children do not earn any income, but also because Canada, like many developed nations, has no definition of poverty.”

While Statscan doesn’t officially measure poverty, it does look at income levels. If more than 70 per cent of a person’s income goes to the essentials of food, clothing and shelter, that individual is considered to be living below. Source: Globe and Mail

A meeting between President Hamid Karzai and a senior US official has revealed new differences over the controversial security agreement to allow US troops to remain in Afghanistan after 2014. Karzai told US National Security Adviser Susan Rice, who met with the Afghan leader on Monday that the US must put an immediate end to military raids on Afghan homes and demonstrate its commitment to peace talks before the Afghan leader would sign a bilateral security pact, Karzai’s spokesman said. The White House said that Karzai had outlined new conditions in the meeting on Monday with Rice and “indicated he is not prepared to sign the (bilateral security agreement) promptly,” a White House statement said. It also deepens questions about whether any US and NATO troops will remain after the end of next year in Afghanistan, which faces a still-potent insurgency and is still training up its own military.

US officials, including Secretary of State John Kerry and Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel, said the deal must be signed by year-end to begin preparations for a post-2014 presence. Rice, who made a three-day visit to Afghanistan to visit US troops, told Karzai that the delay “would not provide the United States and NATO allies the clarity necessary to plan for a potential post-2014 military presence,” the White House said. “Without a prompt signature, the US would have no choice but to initiate planning for a post-2014 future in which there would be no US or NATO troop presence in Afghanistan,” the statement said. There are currently 47,000 US troops in Afghanistan. Karzai spokesman Aimal Faizi said the Afghan leader laid out several pre-conditions for his signature to the deal in the meeting, including a US pledge to halt all military raids on, or searches of, Afghan homes immediately. The Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) includes a provision allowing raids in exceptional circumstances -- when an American life is directly under threat -- but it would not take effect until 2015. Karzai also called on Washington to send remaining Afghan detainees at the US military detention centre in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, back to Afghanistan, saying that the Loya Jirga, the assembly of elders and leaders that convened last week to debate the deal, had endorsed the pact with this condition. Faizi said the Afghan president had asked his American visitors to return to the US president with his message. “The ball is in your court now, and get back to us,” he said.

Source: Al-Jazeera

BC Hydro rates to jump 25.5% over 5 years Energy Minister Bill Bennett and BC Hydro CEO Charles Reid announced a 28 per cent electricity rate hike over five years, with a nine per cent jump coming April 1, 2014. In a press conference in Victoria this morning, Bennett and Reid said the rate hikes were part of a 10-year plan to keep rates as low as possible, while still allowing BC Hydro to invest in infrastructure and future power projects. “The goal of the 10-year-plan is to keep rates predictable,” Bennett said in a phone-in conference. “We believe it’s a balanced and responsible plan. It keeps rate increases as low as possible while BC Hydro makes investments in the system.” Government must get the approval of the B.C. Utilities Commission (BCUC) for the first five rate increases, which start at nine per cent in the first year and compound to 28 per cent by 2019. The BCUC will then be responsible for setting any subsequent rate increases in the final five years of the plan. Bennett said a nine per cent increase amounts to about $8 more per month for the average residential customer and $20 for a small industrial or commercial user.

But, he said, it could mean around $139,000 per month more for the province’s heaviest industrial users. Bennett claimed the hikes were down from previous proposals, including a document leaked in August which described a 26 per cent increase by 2016. “We just decided that an increase of that magnitude was not acceptable,” Bennett said. BC Hydro CEO Charles Reid said users could mitigate the higher electricity costs by conserving more power, but noted B.C. consumers are already getting a fairly good deal. “Our rates are still among the lowest in North America,” said Reid, citing a 2013 Hydro Quebec study of electricity rates in major cities. The study determined Vancouver customers pay 8.91 cents per kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed, while neighbours in Toronto pay 12.48 cents per kilowatt-hour. According to the study, Calgarians pay 14.81 cents per kilowatt-hour. Only Montreal had a lower rate, at 6.87 cents per kilowatt-hour.

“If you were in Calgary you’d be paying, you know, instead of $80 or $90 a month, you’d be paying $150 a month,” said Reid Source: CBC News

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I N T E R N A T I O N A L

7 die in political violence in Bangladesh as opposition rejects January election date

Bangladesh’s opposition blocked roads, railways and waterways on Tuesday to protest government plans to hold a general election on Jan. 5, the latest turn in a violent political crisis that has paralyzed the country. The opposition is demanding that the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign so a neutral caretaker administration can oversee

the polls. Hasina denies its claim that she might rig the elections if she stays in office. The dispute is part of an escalating crisis in Bangladesh, a country of 160 million people where the state is seen as allpowerful. Analysts fear the chaos could exacerbate the impoverished country’s economic woes and lead to radicalization in a strategic pocket of South Asia. Af-

ter the Election Commission announced the election date, the opposition called a 48-hour transport strike starting Tuesday.

According to police, at least seven people have died since late Monday in violence between opposition activists and government supporters and police. In all, 37 people have been killed in the last month of protests. Norwegian telecom giant Telenor ASA has invested more than $2.5 billion in Bangladesh since its subsidiary, the country’s largest mobile phone company Grameenphone, started operations in 1997. It is planning millions more dollars of investment after getting licensed to provide third-generation telecommunication services. But Jon Fredrik Baksaas, president and group chief executive of Telenor ASA, said it was worried about injecting more money. “We are very concerned about the political situation,” he said. He said foreign investment would be hard hit if the situation does not improve. “If it hits the telecom sector, it (will) also hit other sectors,” he said. The violence threatens to overshadow some key advances Bang-

ladesh has made in recent years, including higher enrolment in primary education, gender parity in primary and secondary education, and reduced child and maternity mortality. The opposition led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia says it will boycott the election if Hasina does not quit in favour of a caretaker administration without political parties. But Hasina has formed what she calls an all-party government to oversee the election. All of its ministers are from parties that are allied with her. A key factor in the dispute is the role of Jamaat-e-Islami, the country’s largest Islamic political party. The party is a key Zia ally and was a coalition partner in her government from 2001 to 2006.

Opponents of Jamaat-e-Islami say it is a fundamentalist group with no place in a secular Bangladesh, which broke away from Pakistan in 1971. Bangladesh has a history of political violence, including the assassinations of two presidents and 19 failed coup attempts since its independence.

Source: Calgary Herald

UK clashes with EU over plan to curb migrant benefits Prime Minister David Cameron has unveiled plans to limit European Union migrants’ access to welfare in Britain and said he wanted eventually to restrict migrants from poorer EU states relocating to richer ones, stirring a row with the European Commission. Cameron’s announcement on Wednesday comes as the Conservatives risk seeing their vote split at European elections next year and at a national election in 2015 by the anti-immigration UK Independence Party (UKIP) and he is under pressure from his own party to get tough on the issue. Cameron said he shared deep concerns about a possible influx of Romanians and Bulgarians next year when EU restrictions on those two countries expire, something UKIP says could lead to millions of new migrants. “The EU of today is very different from the EU of 30 years ago,” he wrote in an article for the Finan-

cial Times. “We need to face the fact that free movement has become a trigger for vast population movements caused by huge disparities in income. “That is extracting talent out of countries that need to retain their best people and placing pressure on communities.” Cameron said he planned to change British law so that new EU migrants would have to wait three months before they could obtain unemployment benefits. Newcomers would not be eligible for housing benefits and would lose the right to unemployment benefits after six months unless they proved they had a realistic chance of finding work. His longer term idea of limiting free movement of migrants from poorer EU states would form part of his renegotiation of Britain’s membership of the EU, he said. Cameron has promised to reshape Britain’s EU ties before an in/out referendum after 2015 if he is re-elected

USA: Continued from pg 1 cies from English-speaking countries are known as the Five Eyes, and they agree not to spy on each other while spying on just about every other country. Mr. Snowden is the former U.S. intelligence contractor who has leaked classified documents about NSA spying programs over the past six months – including disclosures that the NSA had been targeting mobile phones used by Germany’s Angela Merkel and other world leaders. Taken together, the Snowden files have shown just how much the Five Eyes continues to be a real partnership and a highly aggressive one. The Five Eyes have been known to publicly highlight their role in teaming up to fight Nazis, Soviets, and more, recently, al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorists, over the years. Yet the collective has been less forthcoming about its diplomatic and trade spying. Yet such spying is routine, inside and outside of the Five Eyes. Diplomats who attend multilateral meetings are often cautioned to be very careful about guarding their communica-

tions and briefing books when they travel abroad. In 2000, Carleton University professor Martin Rudner, an expert in security matters, published an essay saying Canada’s agency, CSEC, has long been after secrets during multilateral meetings and trade negotiation. He wrote that “provided Canadian policy-makers and negotiators with economic intelligence pertaining to international trade negotiations, including the negotiations with Mexico on the North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) of 1994; the 1995 multilateral (“Uruguay Round”) trade negotiations; the Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Ministerial and Leaders’ meetings in Vancouver in 1997,” among other meetings. In October, another Snowden leak showed that CSEC spied on telecommunications traffic affiliated with Brazil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy last summer. The NSA had taken an interest in similar targets in Brazil at that time. Source: Globe and Mail

amid scepticism about the EU. His idea of reforming the EU’s freedom of movement rules would need to be negotiated with other member states and could face a legal challenge from the European Commission.

The EU executive has not said whether or not it will take legal action, but has made it clear it would “rigorously” oppose attempts to restrict freedom of movement, a central tenet of the EU’s 500-million-people single market. The Commission told Britain on Wednesday that EU freedom of movement rules were non-negotiable and that London had to accept them if it wanted to remain in the bloc’s single market. “If Britain wants to leave the single market, you should say so. But if Britain wants to stay a part of the single market, free movement applies,” Viviane Reding, vice-president of the EU executive, told Reuters. Britain’s previous Labour government waived transitional

controls for migrants from new EU members states, something Cameron called a “monumental mistake.”

Source: Al-Jazeera

UN warns of food shortages in Philippines Filipino farmers face imminent financial hardship in the wake of super Typhoon Haiyan without further aid, the UN has warned. Dominique Burgeon, who directs emergency food relief for the UN, said that a lack of aid for farmers could force them to rely on humanitarian food assistance well into next spring. “The urgency of timing can’t be overstated,” Burgeon said. “It would be a double tragedy. The UN urged international donors to raise an additional $11m to help clean farmland and irrigation channels damaged by the typhoon that devastated the Philippines and left almost 7,000 dead earlier this month. The call for funds came after a previous request for $20m to help farmers plant, fertilise, irrigate and maintain crops for the 2014 harvest. Further funding would help provide 1,400 communal irrigation pumps. The UN Development Programme’s cash-for-work scheme has also been implemented to help

farmers clear their lands. The programme pays local communities to remove debris and covers nearly 80km of communal irrigation canals. Despite the hardship caused to farmers, analysts expect damage caused

by Typhoon Haiyan will not derail the country’s economy. “The government has its finances in order and with the economy and tax revenues growing strongly, it can reasonably afford the typhoon’s large repair bill,” Moody’s Analytics said in a research note. The Philippines was one of the fastest growing economies in Asia this year with an annual rate of 7.6 percent. The country is thought to have enough of a financial buffer to cope with the disaster. “Looking past the recent tragedy, there is a lot to like about the medium and long-term outlook of the Philippine economy. The government is on a steady path of reform and is encouraging investment,” Moody’s said.

Source: Al-Jazeera

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Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

E D I T O R I A L

The P5+1-Iran Interim Deal, a Historic Step Forward

Every sovereign country has a right to develop better capabilities for its defence, yet discouraging/stopping the development of deadly weapons of mass destruction is vital to the economic prosperity and peace of the world.

Similarly, Tehran’s controversial nuclear program is also seen as a threat by its neighbors and the world powers. The US-Iranian confrontation lasted for a little over three decades giving a severe headache to the regional players. Therefore, a big bundle of sanctions were imposed on Iran by the UN, US and the European Union.

For a last little while, President Obama has been in touch with the newly elected leadership in Tehran on the issue.

Fortunately, there is some relaxation now in the ongoing tense scenario: There is hope ahead for stability in the Gulf and MidEast region after successful talks between Iran and the P5+1 (China, US, Russia, France, UK, and Germany). An agreement has been reached, whereby Iran and the P5+1 would move forward during six months to “comprehensive solution” as planned.

In return, Iran appeared to be taking necessary action to keep the deal on track and has agreed to a series of measures as well.

Following are the significant points of the historic Nuclear Deal: 1. Iran accepted to stop enrich-

ing uranium beyond 5% neutralising its stockpile of uranium enriched beyond this point 2. Iran accepted to give greater access to inspectors including daily access to its key nuclear sites namely Fordo and Natanz.

3. Iran agreed to stop further development of the Arak plant believed to be capable of producing plutonium.

IRAN GAINS: 1. There will be no new nuclearrelated sanctions for six months provided Iran maintains the accord.

2. Some sanctions will be suspended on trading in gold and precious metals, on Iran’s carmaking sector and its petrochemical exports.

3. Frozen oil sale assets will be transferred in instalments, bringing in some $4.2bn of extra revenue.

President Obama was happy with the deal saying it would help prevent Iran from building a nuclear weapon.

But, some Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia see Iran as a threat and trouble maker in the region.

On the other hand, Iran has survived despite the tough sanctions that shackled its economy, yet a future without sanctions means a lot for its people; other nations would benefit too.

Pakistan has welcomed the understanding reached during the Geneva Accord. Being a brotherly neighboring country of

Iran, Pakistan has always underscored the importance of a viable solution to the issue as it would contribute towards stability of the region.

If the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project is allowed, it would also help stabilize the region.

Nevertheless, there are countries that did not like the interim deal; they have their own reservations: Canada is not happy with the historic pact and would not be able to reap any benefit of the deal despite its major rescue effort for freeing the American hostages through issuing fake Canadian passports during the US Embassy Ordeal in1980.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the interim deal was a historic mistake because “the most dangerous regime in the world took a significant step toward obtaining the world’s most dangerous weapon.” He announced that an Israeli team would travel to Washington for talks on the deal.”This accord must bring about one outcome: the dismantling of Iran’s military nuclear capability,” he said.

Under the interim deal, Iran would receive around $7bn in limited, temporary, targeted, and reversible sanctions relief, while a permanent agreement is sought.

Moreover, the interim agreement with Iran - the world’s fourthlargest oil producer - prompted a fall in oil prices in early Asian trading with Brent crude falling by more than 2%.

Following the talks, Iranian President Rouhani reiterated via a nationwide broadcast last Sunday that his country would never seek nuclear weapons. The Iranian people won as the biggest beneficiary through this deal.

The prevailing tough sanctions, however, were intended only to hit the Iran ruling elite. According to reports, the sanctions against oil and gas exports were instituted to restrict the government finances.

Beyond doubt, the sanctions have caused much more damage than planned making the Iranian people suffer who wanted a quick escape from isolation.

They hoped for an improvement of economic conditions through relaxing/removing sanctions by electing Hassan Rouhani as President as new leader.

Indeed, Iran is in the interest of all players in the region. “The US has its interests — because, Iran is a lucrative market. Iranians need a lot of infrastructure for rebuilding that could generate billions of dollars for US and UK oil companies,” said Abdulateef Al-Mulhim, a retired Saudi navy commodore (Arab News).

Europeans also want a slice of the expected lucrative oil and gas contracts.

Though, this deal does not scrap the Iranian “uranium enrichment program,” the intent remains to curb the said enrichment, because it has been irritating the concerned West.

Letters & Opinions

Mulcair does not deserve to be Prime Minister

By Stéphane Dion, MP Liberal Critic for Intergovernmental Affairs NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair claims that a paltry majority of 50%+1 of expressed votes in a referendum would be enough to justify breaking up Canada; that Quebec separation could occur based on a one-vote difference between the Yes and No sides. While the NDP requires a two-thirds majority to make changes in their own constitution, Mr. Mulcair considers that a single vote is sufficient to break up Canada!

Mr. Mulcair contradicts the Supreme Court of Canada, which ruled in 1998 that a negotiation on secession would require a vote with “a clear majority on a clear question”, a ruling to which Parliament gave effect via the Clarity Act – with the NDP’s support.

Mr. Mulcair contradicts his own party’s historic support for clarity.

Prominent NDP members such as Roy Romanow, Bill Blakie and Pat Martin strongly supported

the Clarity Act. As former NDP leader Ed Broadbent wisely said: “It’s now widely understood by ordinary citizens as well as experts that democracy entails much more than accepting 50% +1”.

According to Mr. Mulcair, 50%+1 is a clear majority; can he tell us what he thinks constitutes an unclear majority? When he contradicts the Supreme Court on such a crucial issue as the breakup of his country – our country, how can he even think he deserves to be its Prime Minister?

The NDP claims its absurd support for a 50%+1 separation threshold is a “pro-Quebec” position. But letting Quebeckers run the risk of being forced to separate from Canada on the basis of a judiciary recount is not being pro-Quebec.

Mr. Mulcair is not showing openness towards Quebec. He is playing the separatist game at the expense of all Canadians. That is enough to disqualify him as Canada’s would-be Prime Minister.

MP Jinny Blasts Conservatives On Failure To Curb Crime Rates After Surrey saw its 22nd homicide of the year this week-the highest annual number ever-Local NDP MP Jinny Sims delivered a strong message to the Conservative government: “For all of its talk about mega prisons and getting tough on crime, it’s obviously failing vulnerable communities.

The numbers speak for themselves. It’s getting worse on Stephen Harper’s watch.”

Under the current Conservative government, cities across the country have seen cuts to front-line street police presence; there has been no move to invest in youth crime prevention, and no strategizing around the issue of gang-related violence.

Stephen Harper’s Conservatives have failed to deliver on their 2006 promise to put

more front-line police on the beat in vulnerable communities; weakened many gun safety measures in Canada, ignoring blunt advice from the RCMP; failed to invest in youth crime prevention strategies; and made cuts to CBSA staffing.

“I am proud to be a member of and stand in solidarity with the Surrey Crime Prevention Society,” said Sims. “We can make our communities safer. Please join me in asking the Conservative government to pay attention.”

IMPORTANT NOTE: Letters to the editor do not reflect the opinion of the Miracle media group. We do not publish anonymous letters or the letters of the people who do not disclose their identity to ‘The Miracle.’ A writer can use a pen name or request ‘The Miracle’ to withhold his / her identity. Please include your daytime telephone number for the confirmation of your letter. We regret the inconvenience.

The experts’ view: Developing a nuclear device does have implications far beyond weapons proliferation in a war-torn region which is highly obstructive to the world oil and gas supplies, of course.

Iran has six months to satisfy the World that its nuclear technology is for non military purposes only.

Waan laysa lil insani illa ma’ sa’aa That man can have nothing but what he strives for.

Meralce Media Group Inc.

Contact Info Mailing and Office Address 9160-136A Street Surrey BC. V3V 7Z8 Canada Fax: 604-582-7809 Founder: Nusrat Hussain Managing Editor: M. Naseer Pirzada Sub- Editors: Khadija, Misbah & Sabeeh Hon. Chief Editor & Urdu Editor Mohammad Rafiq Advertising: info@miraclenews.com Ph: 604-690-0400 Email: naseer@telus.net Editorial Board: Mr, Shums Jillani, Mr aslam Hayat, Mr.Azhar Syed, Mr. Shams Siddiqui, M.A.L. Naumani, Mr Tariq Mian Graphic Design: Design Team Copyright: 2001 Miracle Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Printed in Canada Attention: The opinions express herein contain positions and viewpoints that are not necessary those of “The Miracle”. These are offered as a means for “The Miracle” to stimulate dialogue and discussion in our continuing mission of “Bringing Harmony To All The Communities.”

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7

Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

F A I T H Sahih Bukhari Volume 003, Book 031, Hadith Number 204.

Narated By Mutarrif from ‘Imran Ibn Husain : That the Prophet asked him (Imran) or asked a man and Imran was listening, “O Abu so-and-so! Have you fasted the last days of this month?” (The narrator thought that he said, “the month of Ramadan”). The man replied, “No, O Allah’s Apostle!” The Prophet said to him, “When you finish your fasting (of Ramadan) fast two days (in Shawwal).” Through another series of narrators ‘Imran said, “The Prophet said, ‘(Have you fasted) the last days of Sha’ban?”

Islam as a Religion of Human Dignity and Honor By: Dr. Spahic Omer Islam is a religion that aims to ascertain, uplift and sustain the honor and dignity of man. In Islam, man is God’s vicegerent on earth. Every terrestrial component has been created for the purpose of accommodating and facilitating the fulfillment of man’s noble mission of vicegerency. Man resides in the center of Islam’s universe. As such, the creation of man stood for the last segment in a long formative process of creation during which everything that there is came into existence. It signified the pinnacle of God’s act of universe creation that went through six stages. Moreover, God created Adam, the first man and father of humanity, with His own Hands and in His own Image, as Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) revealed.

(Sahih Muslim) This means that “Adam has been bestowed with life, knowledge, power of hearing, seeing, understanding, but the features of Adam are different from those of Allah, only the names are the same, e.g., Allah has life and knowledge and power of understanding, and Adam also has them, but there is no comparison between the Creator and the created thing. As Allah says in the Qur’an: ‘There is nothing like Him, and He is the AllHearer, the All-Seer’” (al-Shura, 11).

Hence, when God created Adam, angels, the most sublime and infallible creatures, were summoned to witness the final divine act of creation. Upon its completion, they were asked to prostrate themselves before Adam, that is, to prostrate to God, for there is no prostration except to God alone, and to acknowledge thereby the merit and wisdom of God’s handiwork, and to accord respect to Adam and his existential capacities as the crown of divine invention. The Qur’an describes the dramatic occurrence as follows: “And (mention, O Muhammad), when your Lord said to the angels: ‘Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority (khalifah, vicegerent).’ They said: ‘Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?’ Allah said: ‘Indeed, I know that which you do not know.’ And He taught Adam the names - all of them. Then He showed them to the angels and said: ‘Inform Me of the names of these, if you are truthful.’ They said: ‘Exalted are You; we have no knowledge except what You have taught us. Indeed, it is You who is the Knowing, the Wise.’ He said: ‘O Adam, inform them of their names.’ And when he had informed them of their names, He said: ‘Did I not tell you that I know the unseen (aspects) of the heavens and the earth? And I know what you reveal and what you have concealed.’ And (mention) when We said to the angels: ‘Prostrate before Adam’; so they prostrated, except for Iblis.

He refused and was arrogant and became of the disbelievers.” (Al-Baqarah, 30-34).

Islam exists because of man; it is meant for him. Man, in turn, exists because, and for, Islam, to be shown how to live in complete service to his Creator and Master, and to be shown the way to self-assertion and deliverance in both worlds. Thus, the most important knowledge that Islam grants man is the knowledge about himself, his Lord and his relationship with Him, and about the life phenomenon and his place as well as role in it.

Indeed, this is the greatest blessing that man enjoys in Islam. It is a demonstration of man’s honorable and dignified position that he occupies in the hierarchy of Islamic beliefs, val-

ues and principles. It is due to this that the Qur’an often articulates such testimonials as, for example, “We have indeed created man in the best of moulds.” (Al-Tin, 4); “Verily We have honored the Children of Adam... “ (Al-Isra’, 70); “Do you not see that Allah has made subject to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth and amply bestowed upon you His favors, (both) apparent and unapparent?” (Luqman, 20); “Read and your Lord is Most Honorable, Who taught (to write) with the pen, taught man that which he knew not.” (Al-’Alaq, 3-5).

It goes without saying that the ultimate objective of the Islamic message is the preservation of a believer and his honor and dignity. This translates into the preservation of his religion, life, lineage, intellect and property. There is nothing on earth that is more inviolable than a believer, his blood, property and honor. There is nothing that supersedes him in importance.

Everything on earth exists in order to make possible and then sustain a believer’s lofty position. All things and events play second fiddle to his status. Even holy messengers were sent and revelations revealed for the purpose.

Based on the divine Will and Letter, life systems, ordinances and practices are concocted for this same end as well. Accordingly, cultures and civilizations are judged only on the basis of how genuinely they were human honor and dignity-oriented and how much they succeeded in making such enterprise a reality.

It was due to this that the Prophet (pbuh) is reported to have communicated to the Ka’bah while circumambulating (tawaf) it: “How pure you are! And how pure is your fragrance! How great you are! And how great is your sanctity! By Him in whose hands lies the soul of Muhammad, the sanctity of a believer is greater with Allah than even your sanctity (i.e., the Ka’bah). That is (the sanctity) of his property, his blood and that we think nothing of him but good.” (Sunan Ibn Majah) Muslim volunteers help a guest during Human Dignity Day, an event to help needy people in Bay Area California.

A companion of the Prophet (pbuh), ‘Abdullah b. ‘Umar (d. 74 AH/ 693 CE), once when he looked at the Ka’bah, reproduced the gist of those Prophet’s words and said to the Ka’bah: “How great you are! And how great is your sanctity! But the sanctity of a believer is greater with Allah than even your sanctity (i.e., the Ka’bah).” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi) The Prophet (pbuh) also said during his farewell pilgrimage in a sermon which denotes a blueprint for every Muslim civilizational awakening: 25 “Verily, your blood, property and honor are sacred to one another 26 (i.e., Muslims) like the sanctity of 27 this day of yours (i.e., the day of 28 Nahr or slaughtering of the animals 29 of sacrifice), in this month of yours (the holy month of Dhul-Hijjah) and 30 in this city of yours (the holy city of Safar1 Makkah).Ó” (Sahih al-Bukhari) 2 It is thus natural that at a collective 3 level, believers are seen as brothers and sisters to each other. (Al-Huju4 rat, 10). They constitute one Ummah 5 or community. The best among them 6 are only those who are most God7 conscious, or most righteous. (AlHujurat, 13). The best among them, 8 furthermore, are those who are most 9 beneficial to the Ummah as well as to

the whole of mankind. In their unity, mutual compassion and cooperation, the similitude of believers is like a wall whose bricks enforce and rely on each other. They are like a solid cemented structure held together in harmony and strength, each part contributing strength in its own way, and the whole held together not like a mass, but like a living organism.

Believers are further related to each other in such a way that if one of them (a part of an organic and formidable formation called the Ummah or the community) is troubled by a problem of any kind, the rest of the body parts will remain disturbed and restless until the matter became cured. As a result, some of the most outrageous sins in Islam are those which are related to violating and damaging the honor and dignity of a believer, as well as those which are related to the betraying, dividing, weakening and undermining the Ummah or the community. The Qur’an proclaims: “Indeed, those who like that immorality or scandal should be spread (or publicized) among those who have believed will have a painful punishment in this world and the Hereafter.”

(Al-Nur, 19) “And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you -- when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.” (Alu ‘Imran, 103).

At any rate, Islam is as much a personal experience and struggle as it is a collective endeavor and mission. Islam cannot be totally and thoroughly accomplished individually, or in small groups. Islam is a religion of, and thus aims at, society, life in its totality, and civilization. Islam is a religion of collectively inhabiting the earth and making together the world a better place. Islam is a religion of pragmatism and human nature. It is a simple and natural thing. It denounces everything that is unnatural, injurious and inhuman. It denounces everything that stands on the way of people’s individual spiritual and intellectual advancements, and collective civilizational affirmation and rise. Simply put, Islam denounces anything that puts man’s honor

and inviolability, as well as his communal predilection and responsiveness, at stake.

It was because of this underlining character of Islam, surely, that after Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had received in the cave of Hira his first revelation, and with it his divine appointment as the final messenger of God to people, where heretofore he used to spend long periods contemplating and reflecting on the spiritual depression and failures of the world around him, he subsequently never returned to the cave. He did not return because Islam is not a religion of isolation and separation to be practiced by certain ascetic individuals or groups away from the masses and the pressing realities of life. It must be pointed out that the whole process of the Islamic transformation project started right in the cave of Hira, but not with the words of, for example, “pray” or “fast” or “perform pilgrimage”, etc., but rather with the words “Read (iqra’) in the name of your Lord Who created. He created man from a clot. Read and your Lord is most Honorable, Who taught (to write) with the pen, taught man that which he knew not.” (Al-’Alaq, 1-5). The Prophet (pbuh) was asked - as is anyone who subscribes to Islam and Muhammad’s mission - to read, study, try to solve and make known the problems and maladies of his people, as well as of the world and life in general. This is strongly suggested by the notions of God as the Creator and Guardian, and man as the guided and taught mortal completely dependent on God, which are enfolded in the above mentioned verses.

Accordingly, the Prophet (pbuh) once said that a Muslim who socializes with people and puts up with their provocations and annoyances, is better than a Muslim who does not socialize with people - i.e., lives alone -- and does not put up with their unpleasant deeds.

(Sunan al-Tirmidhi) Dr. Spahic Omer, a Bosnian currently residing in Malaysia, is an Associate Professor at the Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design, International Islamic University Malaysia. He studied in Bosnia, Egypt and Malaysia. His research interests cover Islamic history, culture and civilization, as well as the history and philosophy of the Islamic built environment.

Prayer Schedule in Greater Vancouver November 29-Dec 13, 2013 Muharrum 25-Safar 9,1435H Date Day Fajar Sunr Zawal Dhuhr Fri 5:49 7:42 12:05 12:10 15 Sat 16 5:50 7:43 12:06 12:11 17 Sun 5:51 7:45 12:06 12:11 18 Mon 5:51 7:45 12:06 12:11 19 Tue 5:52 7:46 12:06 12:11 20 Wed 5:54 7:48 12:07 12:12 21 Thu 5:55 7:49 12:08 12:13 Fri 5:56 7:51 12:08 12:13 22 Sat 5:57 7:52 12:08 12:13 23 24 Sun 5:58 7:53 12:09 12:14 25 Mon 5:59 7:54 12:09 12:14 26 Tue 6:00 7:55 12:10 12:15 27 Wed 6:01 7:56 12:10 12:15 28 Thu 6:01 7:57 12:11 12:16 Fri 6:02 7:58 12:11 12:16 29

Asar

Maghrib

Isha

14:31 14:31 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:29 14:29 14:29 14:29 14:28 14:28 14:28 14:28 14:28 14:29

16:25 16:25 16:24 16:24 16:24 16:23 16:23 16:22 16:22 16:22 16:22 16:22 16:22 16:22 16:22

17:52 17:52 17:52 17:52 17:52 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51 17:51

For such Prayers are enjoined on believers at stated times: Quran ,n 4:103 Source: BCMA

8 L O C A L 6th Annual Shohada-e-Karbala Conference organised by IAWC Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

On November 16, Islamic Association of Western Canada (IAWC) organized a program in the memory of Martyrs of Karbala at its 6th annual conference at Crystal Conference hall in Surrey. A large number of community members attended the event. Mr. Haider Ali Khan conducted this conference very well. Allama Pir Zahid Hussain Syed, President of Muslim Law Council of Birmingham UK was the chief speaker of the evening.

The Program started with Hafiz Sarwar’s recitation of Holy Quran. Mr. Abdul Salis Ghumman and Hamza Khan recited Manqabat and Naat e Rasool Maqbool (saw). Prof Syed Badiudin Soharwardy then conducted the monthly Dars e Quran in which he explained many incidents according to the topic of Karbala with references from Holy Quran and Sunnah in English and Urdu. He mentioned that a true believer is always ready to give sacrifice in any circumstances. The Martyrdom of Karbala was not an ordinary incident, it will serve as a reminder for every Muslim till the day of judgement.

He thanked Mr. Shams Jilani and Alama Pir Zahid for their presence at this conference. Prof. Soharwardy introduced the guest speaker and mentioned that he had the opportunity to hear Alama Pir Zahid Hussain Syed give authentic, informative and spiritual speeches on the East coast in Montreal and Toronto. Today he is among us in British Columbia. MashAllah his memory is remarkable and very sharp and he has authenticity on Haidths which are stored in his memory.

Allhah(swt) bless him and give him good health to spread the Deen in Europe and North America.

Allama Pir Syed started with recitation of few verses of Holy Quran and narrated Haidths. He delivered a spiritual address regarding the unbelievable sacrifices offered by the members of the family of Holy Prophet (Ahl-e-bait-e-Athaar(RA) and explained many incidents of Karbala day by day and told about those prediction of Prophet (saw) about this Shahadat in his life. He emphasized that Hzt. Imam Hussain(RA) went through all difficult tests and received the blessing of shahadat and sacrificed his life for Deen-e-Islam. But unfortunately nowadays in our Masajids, Imam Bargahs and other holy places, som religious leaders are are creating differences using their speeches and taking people away from Deen and message of love for each other that was given by our beloved Prophet Mohammad(saw). He gave the example of Pakistan where hate is being promoted amongst sects and the result is killing rates increases day by day. This can only stop when Muslim scholars of all sects take their responsibility to establish respect of Ahle Bait and four Caliphs as per our Prophet(PBUH) did in his life and endorse the message of peace, brotherhood and solidarity among Muslims and with the rest of the world.

Prof. Syed Soharwardy also explained the progress of zoning of Masjid Aulia Allah which is situated at 100 Ave and 126th Street in Surrey and also generated funds almost $10,000 for the renovation of this Masjid. He also appealed to those people who have already pledged support to fulfill their commitments as soon as possible for this house of Allah(swt). At the end Mr. Haider Khan thanked all the volunteers, guests, media and Crystal Hall management for facilitating this spiritual Shohadah e Karbala conference with their beautiful arrangements.

Martyrs of Karbala remembered at Masjid Anwar-e- Madina

On November 15, Masjid Anwar-e-Madina, organized a program in the memory of Martyrs of Karbala (Yaad -e-Shohada-e-Karbala) in Surrey. Syed Afroze Dean was the master of ceremony. The program started with the recitation of the Holy Quran . Some Naat-erasool Maqbools and Manajats were recited by the local Naat-Khawans. While conducting the program, Syed Afroze explained many events according to the topic of the evening with references from Holy Quran and Sunnah in English. He said that Hzt

Imam Hussain (r.a) was the beloved grandson of Hazrat Mohammad (PBUH) but His greatness was not only significant because of his parents, Hazrat Ali (RA) and Hazrat Fatima -Az -Zahara (RA). He was great because of his sacrifice.

Syed Imroze Dean Saifi, the local Imam and dynamic Urdu speaker of Masjid Anwar e Madina, expressed his thoughts on the topic of martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (R.A) and presented his spiritual speech in the light of the Holy Quran and Sunnah. He said Hzt.

Imam Hussain(R.A) gave this sacrifice to teach the lesson of Truth and acted on the path of Dean (religion) in front of Yazeed.

Some scholars says that this battle was for the transfer of power but that is not true. He mentioned how the residents of Kufa invited Imam Hussain by sending numerous messages. Even companions of Prophet Mohammad (SAW) who were alive at that time requested Imam Hussain (R.A) not to go there as they had treated Imam Hussain’s father, Ali (R.A) in almost the same way.

After many requests from the residents of Kufa, Imam Hussain(R.A)sent his messenger Muslim Bin Aqeel to Koofa, and after assurance from almost 30 thousand believers, Imam left for Koofa. He also said that just the commemoration of this day is not sufficient. We have to perform good deeds in the lights of Imam Hussain (R.A) teachings. At the end Duaa was made and then Darood-oSalam was recited.

Dawat-e-Islami held an Ijtima at Fiji Islamic Centre On Nov 17, Yade -e -Shohadah Karbala was arranged at Fiji centre in Surrey to remember the martyrs of Karbala. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal Attari from Dawate-Karbala invited all community members and special guests Mr. Fuzail Raza Attari (Montreal) and Mr. Muhammad Saeed Attari (Calgary). The program started with the recitation of Quran, and few Naats and Manqabats were recited.

Muhammad Saeed Attari summarised the sacrifices of Prophet Mohammad (saw) grandsons Hzt. Imam

Hassan (R.A) and Hzt. Imam Hussain (R.A) as well as their companions who gave their life in the path of the religion of Islam. Chief speaker Mr. Fuzail Raza Attari detailed the biography of Hzt Imam Hussain(r.a) after the recitation of few verses of Holy Quran and narrated Hadiths. He remind the audience how the grandson of Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) scarified his family and companions life in the name of Allha(swt) to raise the flag of truth in Deen-e- Islam. And this sacrifice of Imam

Hussain(r.a) will be remembered till the day of judgement. We should all respect each other ‘s sects and spend our life as per teachings of Quran and Sunnah. Maulana Fuzail Raza also asked the audience to watch Madni Tv channel, which is serving 24 hours and almost $18000 have been spent to promote Islamic teachings.

At the end everyone participated in Darood o Salam Mehfil and made Duaa for all Muslim ummah.

9

Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

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10 L O C A L Fundraising Dinner for Surrey Muslim School Relocation Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

Allhumdulilla after a long wait and passions of the parents and great efforts of BCMA executives committee. The BCMA Surrey Muslim School has been moved from September 2, 2013 at a very large building main floor un der the Bombay Banquet Hall at 7475- 135th Street behind Costco at King George Blvd. Surrey. The school served BC educational curriculum and Islamic teachings to Muslim Community boys and girls from Kindergarten to Grade 7 almost 8 years in Surrey Jameh Masjid building.

For this relocation of Surrey Muslim School the BCMA School management done the Fundraising dinner and raised $50K on Nov 16 at Bollywood Banquet Hall in Surrey.

A number of community members, parents and kids attended this dinner which was supported by the BCMA Branches and chapters.

Mr. Raza Mirani was the master of ceremony for this event as per his involvement in Vancouver Education board he elaborated on the impor-

tance of education. After the recitation of holy verses by a school student an Arabic & English mixed nasheed presented by SMS kids. Mr. Mirani presented the Alumnis among them Br. Ibrahim Bawa, a former student of the BCMA and now recently hired as the vice Principal of the BC Muslim Surrey School. He talked about the importance of Islamic education and how the early education at the Muslim schools. Mr. Faisal Abdulaziz VP of School board raised the issue lack of Muslim schools in British Columbia, where the provincial government funded fifty % in education. He also encouraged the parents to send their kids in this SMS in Islamic environment.

BCMA auditor, Br Mohammad Yasin explained the Tax benefits as credits on donating the money to registered charitable organisations, especially, in light of new tax laws, which provide additional 25% tax credits to those individuals whom have not donated in past five years. He urged the parents to donate to keep the cost low, or encourage the community members to donate to this SMS. The important part of this dinner was the funds collection for this relocated school at huge place.

Surrey Jameh Masjid Imam & Qari Abdul Wahib and Mufti Aasim Rashid encouraged in the light of Quran and Suunah and requested everyone to support generously this future structure of our young generation. Allhumdulilla the community very well supported and SMH able to raise the $50,000.

Interfaith Dialogue In a Plural Society Canada and Indonesia On Nov 27, The Interfaith Dialogue In a Plural Society Canada and Indonesia arranged a workshop seminar in two sessions at SFUHarbour Centre in Vancouver.

The first session started at 12pm and was introduced by Mr. Derryl Maclean (Director, CCSMSC). The first panel consisted of four members for the view from Canada which was chaired by Paul Crowe. The first presenter was Mr. David Seljak, from St. Jerome’s University who spoke on the topic of “ The new Religious Diversity and Interfaith Dialogue in Canada.” The second presenter was Ms. Itrath Syed. She is a PhD candidate in the School of Communication at Simon Fraser University where her doctoral project involves an analysis of “moral panics” concerning Muslim bodies in the West. This follows her completion of a master’s degree in women’s studies at the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies, University of British Columbia. Her master’s work explored the gendered and racialized construction of the Muslim community in the media discourse surrounding the Islamic arbitration or “Shariah” debate in Ontario.

Currently, Itrath is an instructor who has taught at Langara College, Centennial College and Simon Fraser University. Her field of instruction includes courses in women’s studies, popular culture, Canadian politics, and a course entitled, “Contemporary Debates in

Muslim Women’s Feminisms.”

Ms. Itrath talked about “Religiously Marked Bodies and the Multicultural Public Sphere”.

She said that in an effort to better understand the dynamics of interfaith dialogue in a plural society, it is critical to examine the discursive paradigm that frames the potentialities of such dialogue. This paper will explore the ways in which historically specific traditions of secularism underpin the multicultural public sphere. Religiously marked bodies exist as bodies that disrupt the distinctions of private/ public and cultural/religious upon which this discursive paradigm rests. The routine moral panics over Muslim expression in various western secular states can be understood as a way in which the centre reasserts itself against such disruptions.

The third speaker was Mr. Munir Jiwa (Graduate Theological Union), who is the founding director of the Center for Islamic Studies and Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies at the Graduate Theological Union. He holds a Ph.D. and M.Phil. in Anthropology from Columbia University and an M.T.S. in World Religions from Harvard Divinity School. His research interests include Islam and Muslims in the West, media, aesthetics, religious pluralism and interfaith dialogue. His forthcoming publications include “Artistic Landscapes: Muslim Artists in America” (book chapter), “Mediating Islamic Norms,” Religious Norms Project” (e-book chapter), His topic was on “Framing/Reframing Dialogue: Islamic Norms, Secularism, Liberal Fundamentalism” in which he highlighted the 9/11after math and the current war and terrorism situation in Pakistan. He also summarised the Arab Spring

and over all Middle East political and geographical position.

The last speaker of first session was Mr. Philip Ryan from Carleton University). His topic was “Could You Really Persuade, If We Don’t Listen? Dialogue in a World that Hates Dialogue”. The second session started at 4pm and focused on Interfaith Dialogue in a Plural Society: “The View from Indonesia”. Presenters included Musa Asy’arie (Sunan Kalijaga

State Islamic University, Yogyakarta) whose talk was titled “Religious Diversities and Character Buildings: Indonesia’s Perspective.”

Joas Adiprasetya (Jakarta Theological Seminary), spoke on “Befriending Strangers and the Beauty of Unknowing”while Eddy Kristiyanto (Driyakara School of Philosophy, Jakarta) spoke about “Religious Diversity in Indonesia from the Perspective of a Catholic Minority.”

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L O C A L

Proclamation by City of Vancouver recognizing 50 years of Pakistan-Canada Association and Al-Jamia Masjid Vancouver November 27, 2013 will forever be known as the day the City of Vancouver officially recognized 50 years of Pakistan-Canada Association. 100 invited guests joined the executive of Pakistan-Canada Association, Mayor Gregor Robertson and City Counselors in a ceremony in the chambers of city counsel. A proclamation was read by Mayor Gregor Robertson and presented to President Haroon Khan to a standing ovation. General Secretary Raza Mirani hosted the short formal ceremony at the podium of City Hall. Hafeez-ul-Quran Abu Bakr Khan opened the ceremony followed by the anthems of Pakistan and Canada. Speeches were given by Haroon Khan, Consul General Shuja Alam, PCA Member Farooq Rai who was appointed the first Assistant Deputy Minister for the Ministry of Multiculturalism and Immigration for the Province of British Columbia.

He was also instrumental in the passage of the Multiculturalism Act of BC. In his brief speech, he provided an historical perspective of significant events related to Canadians of Pakistani origins., AMSSA Executive Director Lynn Moran, Mayor Gregor Robertson and Islamic Trust Chairman Sabir Ali Pannun. A gift of an authentic hand knotted silk tapestry was presented to the City of Vancouver.

“The emotion of the day was overwhelming and I was so moved by the recognition by the City of Vancouver, by the Mayor Gregor Robertson, City Counsel and all of our honoured friends recognizing 50 years of Pakistan-Canada Association and Al-Jamia Masjid Vancouver. The personal recognition of my father, the late Riasat Ali Khan, was an affirmation of his tremendous contribution and legacy.’- Haroon A. Khan - President

Humanity First raised 30K to assist the countless victims of Typhoon Haiyan, Philippine On Nov 25th The Humanity First this year’s theme was ‘Dine and Let Humanity Shine’ which was held at Grand Taj Banquet Hall in Surrey. The program master of ceremony was Mr. Rizwan Peerzada, who conducted all in very well. He invited first Mr. Khalil Mobashir for Moment of Silence for countless victims of Typhoon Haiyan Dr. Aslam Daud executive director of “Humanity First” gave half an hour beautiful presentation. In which he explained current situation in Philippine and Humanity First services.

The Humanity First team is working day and night in the Philippines across Panay island and is based in Roxas City: - Has installed water purification plants helping around 3,500 people with clean drinking water in Capiz, Iloilo and Roxas City.

- Setup 2 Temporary Day Shelters to assist families - Shipped 600 Water survival boxes and warm clothing packs to support 3,000+ people - Distributed food to 1,400 people on Barangay island.

- Building 50 temporary homes for 50 families.

- Assisted more than 10,000 people in the Philippines so far.

Dr. Aslam Daud explained future plan in Philippine and projects of Humanity First in all over the world.

He said that The Humanity

First Canada is firmly committed in making a positive difference to people whose lives have been torn apart by poverty and natural calamities.

This organization has been actively involved in various types of social activities which include providing shelter and drilling water wells along with providing a variety of disaster relief services.

This event was illustrated global mission of particularly in Africa.

It has been Humanity First endeavor to bridge the gap between people who need help and people who are willing to help. This has been made possible only with the continued support of magnanimous individuals and organizations who have offered us help both in cash and kind. The Humanity First is an organization able control administrative expenses by donating more than 93% to cause.

Whole staff are volunteers including The Chairman Dr. Aslam Daud.

After Dr. Daud briefing, Hon. Jinny Sims, MP rep-

resentative Mr. Param Grewal, Outreach officer and Meline Diano-Counsel pf Philippine-Consulate General Philippine Vancouver welcome all the guests and appreciated this great noble cause of Humanity First. At this event Mr. Param Grewal and Mrs. Meline Diano delivered such a beautiful remarks about The Humanity First works and these type of organization humanitarian efforts, particularly what they are doing for needy people in many parts of world. Mr. Naseer Pirzada from Miracle Media was present to provide coverage and support. Harpeet Singh journalist appreciated humanity first efforts and supporter. He expressed importance of understanding pain and sufferings of those needed the most.

Before the dinner Sponsors were given

display space. The big donors presented to Chairman & Vancouver Chapters Coordinator Waqar Ahmad were Ahmadiyya Jama`at Vancouver, Mr. Imran Alvi, The Country Lumber, The Ahmadiyya Youth & Women Associations and Lago Marketing Ltd. A large number of men and women from South Asian Community and other local community were attended this Humanity First event and raised more than thirty thousand dollars in shape of bought Tickets and given big donations.

The delicious dinner was served at the end of the program. Mr.Rizwan Peerzada representative of Humanity First thanking all participants for cooperation and support. For further visit Web: www.humanityfirst.ca

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P O L I T I C S

HISTORIC IRAN NUCLEAR DEAL

A historic deal was struck early Sunday between Iran and six world powers over Tehran’s nuclear program that slows the country’s nuclear development program in exchange for lifting some sanctions while a more formal agreement is worked out.

The agreement -- described as an “initial, six-month” deal -- includes “substantial limitations that will help prevent Iran from creating a nuclear weapon,” U.S. President Barack Obama said in a nationally televised address.

The deal, which capped days of marathon talks, addresses Iran’s ability to enrich uranium, what to do about its existing enriched uranium stockpiles, the number and potential of its centrifuges and Tehran’s “ability to produce weapons-grade plutonium using the Arak reactor,” according to a statement released by the White House.

Iran also agreed to provide “increased transparency and intrusive monitoring of its nuclear program,” it said.

There was no immediate reaction from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has consistently asked the West to be wary of any deals with Iran.

However, Israeli Intelligence Minister Yubal Steinitz reiterated the Israeli government stance when he said Sunday morning that the lastsecond amendments put into the agreement are “far from satisfactory.”

“This agreement is still bad and will make it more difficult than before to achieve an appropriate solution in the future,” he said.

Obama warned that if Tehran violates terms of the deal, “We will turn off the relief and ratchet up the pressure.”

You can be sure that President Obama will speak to Prime Minister Netanyahu” on Sunday about the Iran agreement, A senior administration official said Obama will speak with Netanyahu sometime Sunday.

“Ultimately, we understand why Israel is particularly skeptical about Iran,” the official said, adding, “This is not simply about trusting the Iranian government.

There are strict verification measures.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the deal an opportunity “to avert an unnecessary crisis.”

Zarif said he hopes the nuclear agreement will lead to “concrete steps” to improve relations between Iran and Western powers.

As part of the deal, according to Zarif, Iran retains the right to nuclear technology, including the enriching of uranium under the terms of the Treaty on the NonProliferation of Nuclear Weapons -- which requires it not to create nuclear weapons or enable other countries to obtain them.

Iran has agreed to what U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry

described as “unprecedented international monitoring” of its nuclear program.

“The first step, let me be clear, does not say that Iran has a right to enrich uranium,” Kerry said, appearing to contradict claims earlier by Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

Araghchi -- on Twitter feed commonly attributed to him by Iranian media -- said that “our enrichment program was recognized.”

In exchange for Iran’s concessions, sanctions on its oil revenues will be eased. But Kerry said the agreement does not roll back the “vast majority of the sanctions that are currently in place.”

The deal was formally announced

by Catherine Ashton, the EU’s foreign policy chief, in Geneva where the foreign ministers representing Iran, the United States, Britain, China, Russia, France and Germany were meeting.

But closed-door negotiations had been taking place for a while.

A senior administration official told CNN that in the months leading up to the Geneva talks, U.S. and Iranian officials held private, previously unknown discussions to generate ideas for the wider P5+1 negotiations.

The official said talks began after Hassan Rouhani was elected Iran’s president, and that as the discussions were occurring, U.S. officials were briefing the P5+1 partners. The official suggested other

partners were meeting with the Iranians and briefing the U.S. about the progress of those discussions.

The Iran nuclear deal is a first step requiring actions by both sides, which have “a strong commitment to negotiate a final comprehensive solution,” Ashton said.

According to a statement released by the White House, the deal halts Tehran’s nuclear program, including halting the development at the Arak reactor and requiring all of the uranium enriched to 20% -close to weapons-grade -- to be diluted so it cannot be converted for military purposes.

The Arak heavy water reactor under construction southwest of Tehran had been a sticking point in earlier negotiations.

For years, Iran and Western powers have left negotiating tables in disagreement, frustration and at times open animosity.

But the diplomatic tone changed with the transfer of power after Iran’s election this year, which saw

President Hassan Rouhani replace Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Caustic jabs at the United States and bellicose threats toward Israel were a hallmark of Ahmadinejad’s foreign policy rhetoric.

He lambasted the West over the economic sanctions crippling Iran’s economy and at the same time, pushed the advancement of nuclear technology in Iran.

Rouhani has struck up a more conciliatory tone and made the lifting sanctions against his country a priority.

Despite the sanctions, Iran today has 19,000 centrifuges and is building more advanced ones, according to Mark Hibbs, a nuclear policy expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Most world powers believe that Iran could not realistically build a usable bomb in less than a year, Hibbs said.

Source: http://www.abc15.com/ dpp/news

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L O C A L

Alumni UBC 2013 Achievement Awards

The 2013 alumni UBC Achievement Awards took place on November 14th at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Vancouver.

Salina Dharamsi, BCom’13 keen participant in the company’s 2011, Dharamsi was featured as a communities in Pakistan, his coun- sewing.

This has been achieved with limvolunteering opportunities, espe- “local hero” on the cover of The try of birth.

Future Alumnus Award

Ms. Salina Dharamsi has already cially those with an international focus, and represented KPMG at a UBC initiative in Phalaborwa, South Africa, teaching local entrepreneurs marketing, finance and accounting skills. In Guatemala, she helped develop children’s literacy and health awareness. More recently, she travelled to Udaipur, India, to participate in projects with Free the Children.

Passionate about international development and diplomacy, she was selected from among hundreds of candidates as one of six youth established an impressive record ambassadors for World Vision of academic achievement, leader- Canada and participated in a leadship and community service. As ership forum with Rwandan, Tanwell as being a familiar face on zanian and Congolese youth. She the local volunteering scene, she was a panelist and youth facilitator has travelled to Guatemala, India for two United Nations debates in and Rwanda, where she worked New York and Geneva, and was and learned side-by-side with lo- the sole Canadian student delegate cal people on community develop- at the Peace Conference of Youth held in Japan last year. Dharamsi ment projects.

In 2010 she was admitted into the has also been extremely active in highly competitive accounting co- her local community. She has faop education program at UBC’s cilitated a conference on healthy Sauder School of Business, and living for inner-city students, tuwas soon identified as a top re- tored children with learning discruit by KPMG. She completed abilities and raised money for litthree work terms as a chartered eracy. She has also been a regular accountant articling student and volunteer for AIDS Vancouver, in 2011 was one of only two Ca- Canuck Place Children’s Hosnadian interns selected to complete pice, BC Ismaili Volunteer Corps, a one-month rotation in corporate the Canadian Cancer Society and finance in Johannesburg, South UBC Meal Exchange, which colAfrica, as part of KPMG’s Glob- lects canned goods for local food al Internship Program. She is a banks, and was a mentor in UBC’s Emerging Leaders program. In

Province newspaper. Since being selected as recipient for Future Alumnus Award, Dharamsi has graduated from UBC and is currently enrolled in the Master of Professional Accounting program at the Edwards School of Business in Saskatchewan. In recognition of her community involvement and significant contributions, she has received a BC Community Achievement Medallion and a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Muhammad Iqbal Faculty Community Service Award

In 1996 Dr. Muhammad (“Mo”) Iqbal retired from UBC’s department of Mechanical Engineering after enjoying a distinguished career specializing in solar power.

After 30 years contributing to education and research in Canada, he now devotes himself to creating opportunities for disadvantaged

Iqbal grew up in modest circumstances in a village near Islamabad, but his academic promise meant he was able to receive an education through scholarships and bursaries. In an environment that was largely hostile to the idea of educating females, he helped his two younger sisters secure an education as well. His support for them was an indication of what would come later, on a much larger scale.

In 1999 Iqbal and his wife, Diane Fast, established the family-based Maria-Helena Foundation (MHF) to provide educational opportunities to disadvantaged children in Pakistan, notably to girls. The logistical and cultural barriers to establishing this endeavor were daunting, but, crucially, Iqbal was able finding the right local partners to work with and set up a board in Vancouver as a base of advice and support.

To date the organization has established several self-sustaining primary schools and two libraries serving more than 3,500 pupils. All the teachers are female.

A further 450 very impoverished students are receiving education at temporary home-based primary schools with one teacher, with the foundation paying fees and salaries. In addition, a medical clinic is providing approximately 80 people with low-cost treatments, and two training centers are teaching girls and women needlecraft and

ited resources that, especially in the early days, came mostly out of Iqbal’s own pocket. He quickly learned to wring out every cent for its full worth. Nowadays, the foundation has charitable status and receives funding from individual donors and organizations such as the United Way. Each year, a recent UBC graduate in Political Science spends a year with Iqbal at the Maria-Helena Foundation to train for work in International Development, with seven students so far benefitting from this experience.

Iqbal’s desire to help his country of birth is not limited to education. In 2010, at the age of 80, he completed Vancouver’s Grouse Grind hike 20 times to raise funds for Pakistani flood victims. He is a generous and compassionate individual with a deep belief in social justice – a practicing humanitarian who is committed to action and change.

Achievement Awards 2014 Nominations The next Award recipients won’t raise their own hands.

That’s why we need you.

The accomplishments of the members of UBC’s global community of alumni represent an inspiring account of positive social, cultural, and economic change in the world. The alumni UBC Achievement Awards is the chance to recognize those actions and share the stories of our vibrant and influential community.

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Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

L O C A L

Another Murder in Surrey for a Record 23 in 2013 The murder rate in Surrey continues to climb, with the slaying early Saturday of a man at a booze can in the 9100 block of 147A Street.

The house is notorious for after hours drinking and the accompanying problems that come with it.

The murder is the second homicide this week and the 23rd in Surrey so far in 2013 – a record for the city.

Just last week, after the murder of 44-yearold Mark Winston Berry, Mayor Dianne Watts announced a task force consisting of a criminologist, the RCMP, city officials and school representatives to examine the root caused of all the violence.

RCMP Chief Supt. Bill Fordy has said most of them are linked to the drug trade and gangs. And the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team has made progress. Just Friday, charges were announced in the Nov. 9 death of Corey Bennett, a long-time drug dealer.

I would be interested to hear your thoughts on what could be done.

Here’s the 2013 list to date: 1. Jan. 13 Who: John McGivern and Geordie Carlow, both 33 Where: apartment complex parkade at 9450 128 St. Cause of death: shot Other details: both had records for property crime 99 2. Jan. 13 Who: Manjot Singh Dhillon, 27 Where: near 168 St. and 76 Ave. Cause of death: shot Other details: Dhillon was a former associate of late gangster Sukh Dhak 3. Jan. 15 Who: Manjinder Singh Hairan, 27 Where: near 127 St. and 112B Ave. Cause of death: shot Other details: Hairan, an associate of Sukh Dhak, had been cooperating with police in a murder investigation. He was killed, and his associate Jujhar

Singh Khun-Khun was critically wounded 4. Jan. 28 Who: Jaskaran Singh Sandhu, 26, of Coquitlam Where: Colebrook Rd. near 123 St. Cause of death: not released Other details: 16 months earlier, Sandhu, who had gang affiliations, survived a targeted hit outside a Mr. Lube automotive shop in Coquitlam 5. Feb. 15 Who: Janice Shore, 45 Where: a vacant lot near 104 Ave. and 135A St. Cause of death: badly beaten Other details: she battled mental illness and police say she was involved in “highrisk” activities 6. Feb. 20 Who: Vimal Chand, 29 Where: in his car across the street from Hyland elementary in the 6600 block of 140 St. Cause of death: not released Other details: believed to have had links to the drug trade Richmond River 91 7. Feb. 24 Who: Amritpal Saran, 29, of Delta Where: at the side of Colebrook Rd. 91 Fraser Delta Cause of death: not released Other details: Saran was “known to police” 10 1017 8. March 13 Who: Brett Sheldon Lietz, 54, and Nicole Madelynn Brochu, 40 Where: near 125A St. Cause of death: not confirmed Other details: Lietz and Brochu were roommates Boundary Bay Boundary Bay Regional Park 9. March 18 Who: Jackie Olson, 43 Where: 13049 103 Ave. Cause of death: stabbed 10. April 24 Who: Craig Widdifield, 28 Where: 15700-block of Croydon Dr. Cause of death: shot Other details: he had numerous gang connections 11. June 19 Who: Gurpreet Kaur, 30 Where: in her home in the 6700 block of 145A St. Cause of death: not released Other details: Kaur’s husband, Dilber Singh Atwal, 49,

Change in the world is just a click away

By Jessica Murrey GENOCIDE, shootings, rape... it’s easy to express outrage after the fact. It is obvious that senseless violence is wrong. But what about the root cause?

Bias. Fear. Hate. They are alive and kicking in every community. None of us is off the hook.

It could be toward people of different ethnicities, religions or ideologies. Or maybe you just think people who eat at McDonalds are ignorant. Or you think people who refuse to eat fast food are stuck up. If we want to end violent conflict, we must eradicate prejudice, understand life in one another’s shoes and see conflicts as opportunities — not threats. We must discover constructive solutions to our mutual problems, rather than letting our relationships — or even the government — shut down.

This is the thinking behind Join the Search, the global movement to end violence. United Network of Young Peacebuilders, the Peace and Collaborative Development Network, and dozens more local youth organizations are already onboard. By International Day of Peace 2014, we’re aiming to get one million people to take the pledge to end violent conflict and join the movement.

Violent conflict means physical and sexual violence, but it also includes verbal abuse, bullying and systematic discrimination. Violent conflict is a root cause of hunger, poverty, low education and poor health care. It disrupts trade for decades and destroys the environment.

Eighteen of the world’s hungriest countries experienced recent violent conflict. While varying from conflict to conflict, civilian

deaths in war have increased in the last century, up to 90 percent of all deaths, with the vast bulk of these being women and children. The total cost to contain violence is $9.5 trillion, equal to 11 percent of global GDP. It has to end.

It starts with you and me, but it’s got to go global. Join the Search strives to raise awareness about the impact of violent conflict, shift attitudes on how relevant and preventable violent conflict is, and empower a network of people with the skills to handle conflict in their own lives.

That’s why my Marine and pacifist friends both took the pledge. It’s not about being a doormat. It’s not about changing your beliefs or who you are. It’s about changing your response to conflict. It’s about having the skills to create constructive dialogue in heated situations, with uncomfortable topics.

We’re all wary of clicktivism. So how does signing a pledge online help us end violent conflict? Each month pledgers receive one e-mail with: 1) A Join the Search challenge to exercise their conflict-solving muscles, 2) an inspirational story from the field, showing peacebuilders in action and 3) an invite to a virtual event with amazing speakers all over the world.

Each month the JTS Challenge will dare us to better ourselves by pushing us to look outside our own selective scope. The movement provides loads of opportunities to connect with other pledgers all over the globe, giving us a chance to understand violent conflict in a different context or country.

When you put it all together, that is a mass

was also found at the scene 12. July 7 Who: Scott Ashley McMillan, 55 Where: 13800 block of 64th Ave. Cause of death: vicious beating in his home Other details: he spent three days on life support and died July 10 13. Aug. 16 Who: Kyle Yellowbird, 21 Where: near 154th St. and 100th Ave. Cause of death: stabbed in a fight Other details: police have a suspect, described as a man in his 40s to 50s, but have yet to lay charges 14. Aug. 17 Who: Robert Paterson, 40 Where: parking lot near the Royal Canadian Legion at 106th Ave. and 135A St. Cause of death: run over Other details: Christopher Lennox Edgar Griffith, 31, has been charged with criminal negligence causing death 15. Sept. 18 Who: Ezar Ahmed Khan, 30 Where: Joe Brown Park at 123 St. and New McLellan Rd. Cause of death: not released Other details: murder appears to be targeted, though not gang-related 16. Sept. 20 Who: Name and age not released Where: in a house in the 8100 block of 145th Street Cause of death: shot Other

details: Hong Manh Nguyen, 56, arrested at the airport several hours later 17. Oct. 25 Who: Satwant Singh Bains, 35 Where: in his driveway in the 8600-block of 156 Street Cause of death: shot Other details: he had no criminal record, but police believe the murder was targeted 18. Oct. 31 Who: Lisa Ann Zielke, 41 Where: Hi-Knoll Park near the SurreyLangley border Cause of death: not released Other details: she was a sex trade worker 19. Nov. 9 Who: Corey Bennett, 44. Where: killed in a known drug house at 2600-block of King George Hwy. Cause of death: not released Other details: One man has been charged and a second is expected to be charged.

20. Nov. 18 Who: Mark Winston Berry, 44.

Where: inside a residence in the 12000-block of 99th Avenue.

Cause of death: not released Other details: Berry had “an extensive criminal record” dating back to 1987.

21. Nov. 23 Who: Unidentified Male Where: At 91 Avenue and 147A Street.

Cause of death: not released Source: http://blogs.vancouversun.com

Mayor and Officer in Charge Respond to City’s Homicide Rate

In response to the City of Surrey’s homicide rate, Mayor Dianne Watts and Surrey RCMP Officer in Charge Chief Superintendent Bill Fordy issue the following statements: Mayor Dianne Watts: “I will be striking a task force with the Surrey RCMP on drug and gang activity and the contributing factors of homicide. It will look at the spikes in homicides in Surrey that have occurred every four years: in 2005 at 21 homicides, 2009 at 20, and 22 in 2013. It will look at streamlining policing resources, including looking at the effects of mental health, identifying drug houses, reviewing our CCTV program and examining our policing service delivery model. Together with the Surrey RCMP, school district, and of people on every continent equipped to constructively deal with conflict on both an individual and global level.

If a million people thought twice before writing off the other side, led their communities to constructive solutions during

crime analysts, we will identify strategies to prevent people from engaging in a gang and drug lifestyle and to disrupt this activity in our community.”

Chief Superintendent Bill Fordy: “Any homicide is of great concern to us at the Surrey RCMP. I must advise people who associate with those in a criminal lifestyle that your enabling behaviour could lead to tragic consequences. For those who choose to engage in criminal behaviour, we want you to know that you are not welcome in Surrey and that if you choose to embrace the criminal lifestyle you will end up dead or in jail. I have no doubt that the results of the Mayor’s Task Force will enhance our abilities to address these issues.” troubling times, and believed that ending violence was possible, think of how the world could change.

It starts with you and me. Take the pledge today.

20

Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

H E A L T H

Eating nuts is tied to lower risk of death Help yourself to some nuts this holiday season: Regular nut eaters were less likely to die of cancer or heart disease — in fact, were less likely to die of any cause — during a 30-year Harvard study.

Nuts have long been called heart-healthy, and the study is the largest ever done on whether eating them affects mortality.

Researchers tracked 119,000 men and women and found that those who ate nuts roughly every day were 20 percent less likely to die during the study period than those who never ate nuts. Eating nuts less often lowered the death risk too, in direct proportion to consumption.

The risk of dying of heart disease dropped 29 percent and the risk of dying of cancer fell 11 percent among those who had nuts seven or more times a week compared with people who never ate them.

The benefits were seen from peanuts as well as from pistachios, almonds, walnuts and other tree nuts. The researchers did not look at how the nuts were prepared — oiled or salted, raw or roasted.

A bonus: Nut eaters stayed slimmer.

“There’s a general perception that if you eat more nuts you’re going to get fat. Our results show the opposite,” said Dr. Ying Bao of Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

She led the study, published in Thursday’s New England Journal of Medicine. The National Institutes of Health and the International Tree Nut Council Nutrition Research & Education Foundation sponsored the study, but the nut group had no role in designing it or reporting the results.

Researchers don’t know why nuts may boost health. It could be that their unsaturated fatty acids, minerals and other nutrients lower cholesterol and inflammation and reduce other problems, as earlier studies seemed to show.

Observational studies like this one can’t prove cause and effect, only suggest a connection. Research on diets is especially tough, because it can be difficult to single out the effects of any one food.

People who eat more nuts may eat them on salads, for example, and some of the benefit may come from the leafy greens, said Dr. Robert Eckel, a University of Colorado cardiologist and former president of the American Heart Association.

Dr. Ralph Sacco, a University of Miami neurologist who also is a former heart association president, agreed.

“Sometimes when you eat nuts you eat less of something else like potato chips,” so the benefit may come from avoiding an unhealthy food, Sacco said.

The Harvard group has long been known for solid science on diets. Its findings build on a major study earlier this year — a rigorous experiment that found a Mediterraneanstyle diet supplemented with nuts cuts the chance of heart-related problems, especially strokes, in older people at high risk of them.

Many previous studies tie nut consumption to lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer and other maladies.

In 2003, the Food and Drug Administration said a fistful of nuts a day as part of a lowfat diet may reduce the risk of heart disease.

The heart association recommends four servings of unsalted, unoiled nuts a week and warns against eating too many, since they are dense in calories.

The new research combines two studies that started in the 1980s on 76,464 female nurses and 42,498 male health professionals. They filled out surveys on food and lifestyle habits every two to four years, including how often they ate a serving (1 ounce) of nuts.

Study participants who often ate nuts were healthier — they weighed less, exercised more and were less likely to smoke, among other things. After taking these and other things into account, researchers still saw a strong benefit from nuts.

Compared with people who never ate nuts, those who had them less than once a week reduced their risk of death 7 percent; once a week, 11 percent; two to four times a week, 13 percent; and seven or more times a week, 20 percent.

“I’m very confident” the observations reflect a true benefit, Bao said. “We did so many analyzes, very sophisticated ones,” to eliminate other possible explanations.

For example, they did separate analyzes on smokers and non-smokers, heavy and light

exercisers, and people with and without diabetes, and saw a consistent benefit from nuts.

At a heart association conference in Dallas this week, Penny Kris-Etheron, a Pennsylvania State University nutrition scientist, reviewed previous studies on this topic.

“We’re seeing benefits of nut consumption on cardiovascular disease as well as body weight and diabetes,” said Kris-Etherton, who has consulted for nut makers and also served on many scientific panels on dietary guidelines.

“We don’t know exactly what it is” about nuts that boosts health or which ones are best, she said. “I tell people to eat mixed nuts.”

21

Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

KIDS

MENA Youth Refuse to step down despite setbacks

By Fatima Nadeem Grade 6, Surrey Kids Korner is a fun way for kids to exercise their brain, build up their imagination with lots of other things while having fun. From last Miracle edition plus a few editions forward we will focus on the topic of fall.

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by Aisha Habli Beirut – The glow of the Arab Spring wore off in the media a while ago. Violence, internal division and widespread frustration have replaced the hopeful scenes of youth standing up to demand change. But have youth really stepped back from the frontlines of such change? I followed up with my peers, co-participants at an Arab Youth Leadership workshop earlier this year, to find out.

I first checked in with Marouane Bakit, a social activist in Libya and co-founder of a project, Sonaah Al Amal (Makers of Hope), which brings together youth of different races and ethnicities to discuss and engage in postArab Spring development. They are buoyed to continue their work due to the impact of some of their early results.

At the end of 2012, in post-war Libya, Marouane and a small team of youth visited the refugee camps in their city, Tripoli, to which hundreds of families have sought refuge from Bani Walid, Sirte, Tawergha and Misrata that were badly affected during the war. Marouane’s team was inspired to change the terrible conditions they observed – people were drinking seawater and kids were sleeping on the ground, with no shelter in cold weather.

They reported their findings to government authorities, who responded by relocating about 300 people who were living in the worst conditions to places with better living conditions, and later investigated the refugee camps in Tripoli. Marouane reports, “This success gave us a push, so we did a video report on refugee camps in Tripoli which was broadcast on the most widely-viewed Libyan TV channels. We were a young and small organization, and we changed the lives of 250300 people in the camps. We were a positive change in their

lives.�

In Palestine, social activist Ohood Murqaten describes how many youth initiatives have been active in calling for national dialogue around the Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations. She mentions her involvement in The YaLa Young Leaders Online Academy (YLO@), a year-long educational program that teaches critical skills, empowers youth and serves as a communication platform for young leaders from the region. “For many this is the first time Arabs, Palestinians, and Israelis are getting together and studying and becoming friends. For many of the Israeli participants, this is the first opportunity they have had to sit and talk and listen to Palestinians and Arabs, and to learn that we have ideas, languages and creativity, and are educated,� Ohood tells me in an elated tone over Skype.

She recalls, “The conversations would often turn highly emotional, but there was never any arguing. During a cultural night, participants shared their music, food, and dance. In the Israeli session, we all danced the horah in a big circle, and during the Palestinian session, the Israeli participants joined in the dabke traditional dance, and wore the hatta (Palestinian traditional head dress) and for a while, we were all the same.�

Like Marouane and Ohood, other youth in the MENA (Middle East North Africa) region remain engaged, advocating for dialogue and youth engagement. Bassam Ghaber, an organiser at the Yemen Elections Monitoring Network (YEMN) mentioned that youth-led organizations have been working to promote a culture of comprehensive national dialogue and raising awareness on the importance of

Continued on pg 22

22

Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

SPORTS

Pakistan win series in thrilling finish

Junaid Khan defended nine runs off the final over to ensure Pakistan secured a first ever bilateral ODI series win over South Africa.

In a rain-reduced affair, which was curtailed to 45-overs a side, Ahmed Shehzad’s century provided Pakistan with a challenging total. South Africa, playing in their 500th ODI, looked well set to chase it down courtesy Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers, but the pressure got the better of them once again and they fell one run short. A 110-run fourth-wicket partnership between Amla, whose 98 was crafted from patience, and de Villiers, who provided a dazzling display of innovation with 74, brought South Africa’s required run-rate down to less than a run a ball. With the equation in their favour, it seemed South Africa would better their poor record batting second - they have not won a match chasing since March this year - in the decider of the three-match series against Pakistan. But Amla and JP Duminy were dismissed in the space of three balls, new batsmen were at the crease, Saeed Ajmal turned the screws in the penultimate over, Junaid produced a full bouquet of yorkers, and Pakistan claimed a historic victory. There were times when it seemed they would not get there. After Junaid did the early damage and got rid of Graeme Smith, South Africa laid a foundation through Amla and Quinton de Kock, who provided a mix of forti-

tude and flair to keep South Africa on track. Amla was happy to let de Kock execute the meaty swings while he dropped anchor. Shahid Afridi’s golden-arm broke through their partnership when de Kock tried to clip the ball over midwicket and found silly mid-on instead.

Afridi also claimed the big scalp of Jacques Kallis but by then Amla had reached fifty and South Africa were set. With de Villiers joining him, South Africa had their two top ODI batsmen in operation and they seemed certain to take them over the line. De Villiers attacked from the get-go, driving Bilawal Bhatti through extra cover, and then accelerated off Mohammad Hafeez, Ajmal and Anwar Ali. He danced down the track, he cut, he brought up his half-century with a fierce pull, he swept and got down on on knee to impersonate Brendon McCullum’s paddle. And then he perished trying to repeat it. Afridi took the catch at deep square leg. Still, South Africa seemed in control. They required 36 runs off 38 balls and Amla was still there. He was soon in the nineties.

He was the man who could withstand the Ajmal stranglehold, but he showed he was human too. He tried to reach the milestone with a six over square leg but top-edged to Hafeez and that was the start of South Africa’s end. Ajmal’s job was done, Junaid followed up well and South Africa’s soft underbelly was exposed again. The

questions surrounding their batting may drown out any thoughts of their bowling, which stands in line for much praise and some concern. Dale Steyn recorded careerbest figures of 6 for 39 and bowled the poisoned-tip any spearhead should. Steyn claimed the early wickets of Nasir Jamshed and Mohammad Hafeez - who he has now accounted for him 15 times in 23 matches across formats - and came back to puncture Pakistan at the end. What he lacked was support from an attack that had been changed to include the fit-again Lonwabo Tsotsobe and Ryan McLaren. The seamers struggled to fine their lines while there was little on offer for the slower bowlers, making them fairly ineffective. Once Steyn had had his way with the top order, Pakistan rebuilt through Sohaib Maqsood and Shehzad. They rotated strike well and did not force boundaries, instead waiting for Jacques Kallis

to overpitch, JP Duminy to offer flight or Ryan McLaren to allow them to get under the length.

Maqsood threw it away, trying to launch McLaren over extra cover and finding Amla, but Shehzad plugged on. He crossed 1000 ODI runs, survived while Misbah-ulHaq was caught down the leg side off Imran Tahir and, after 108 balls at the crease brought up his third ODI century. He looked set for many more but was run-out when Umar Akmal was ball-watching when he called for a single. Akmal made up for that mistake by providing the lower-order flourish which took Pakistan to a competitive total. He was the anchor of the 82 runs they scored in the last 10 overs. He took on McLaren and Steyn with extravagant shots and even though he was Steyn’s fifth wicket, he had done enough to roll out the canvas on which the bowlers could paint a memorable win.

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Youth: Continued from pg21

yani r i B n e k c i Ch

civil participation in their communities. And Najwa Uheba, another Libyan participant and activist, shares how youth initiatives in her country are tailored to critical current events. “Several youth initiatives advocate for nonviolent expression, particularly in demonstrations and protests,” says Najwa.

The desires of youth are simple.

They want safety and security.

They want to be free from armed conflict and they want to take part in the development taking place in their respective countries.

Achieving these lofty goals is not an easy process. Newly formed democratic bodies need to mature and create better mechanisms for public involvement, and in some cases new ones need to be created.

Youth-led organisations in MENA also often struggle to become independent and self-sustainable.

Nonetheless, MENA youth are resilient and remain determined to be agents of positive change.

Despite the frustration and the challenges, they have refused to give up, or to sit passively on the sidelines. We have a big role in carrying our communities forward even when the older generations may have grown tired, and we will continue to create positive change.

Aisha Habli works as a public relations and media specialist. She is a peace activist and a member of the Media Association for Peace and MasterPeace Lebanon.

Courtesy: Common Ground News

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Muharrum 25, 1435 H November 29, 2013

PAKISTAN

A Path Of Destruction

By: Syed Asad Abraham Lincoln once said, “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”

Owing to the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan, increasing level of sectarian and ethnic violence, poor governance, and corruption, Abraham Lincoln’s quote seems truer for Pakistan than America herself. Indeed, the country has seen dreadfully rough and tough periods in the aftermath of 9/11 incident and the continuing War of Terror (WoT).

The emergence of Pakistani Taliban in the backdrop of the WoT has proven fatal for Pakistan. Taliban take credit for a long list of terrorist attacks that have claimed over 50,000 fatalities (see chart) since

2003. Furthermore, because of deteriorating security condition and the continuing WoT, the economy has fallen flat and losses are estimated to be over $100 billion (Rs 1090 billion).

Whilst the country is facing many security challenges, the biggest ones seem to be extremism and ethnic conflicts spreading fast across the country.

According to reports, over 50 militants groups are battling with Pakistani armed forces, civilians and each other. Most groups are based in ungoverned tribal areas (bordering with Afghanistan), Punjab and Baluchistan provinces. The deadliest and strongest group among them is perhaps Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) that was founded on December 13, 2007 under the command of

Bait-ullah-Mesud who was later killed in a drone strike in 2009 .

Hakimullah-Meshud took charge of TTP in 2009, but he was also recently killed in a drone strike. A ruthless commander Mullah Fazal who was the master mind in planning attack on Malala and also known as Mullah Radio is the new head of TTP now. It is said that TTP is cahoots with al-Qaeda and its namesake in Afghanistan and dominated by the Mehsud tribe.

The history of TTP is not that old.

Tribal areas of Pakistan, bordering with Afghanistan, for decades have been a no-go area for Pakistani state. However, it was in July 2002 when Pakistan Army, for the first time in 55 years, entered tribal areas and began hunting various Islamic militia groups that were engaged in fighting with the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan.

That triggered local tribesmen to retaliate against Pakistan’s army.

They alleged that the army was carrying out the agenda of the US and west and thus jihad is fard on locals.

Initially, many small militia groups were formed to battle against the army until scattered groups got united under TTP name in 2007.

TTP believed it must protect Pakistani land from infidel invaders and seek to impose Islamic law (sharia) in Pakistan and overthrow the democratically elected government. They reject Pakistani constitution and democratic process. TTP is also blamed for killing prominent leader of Pakistan and ex-prime minister Benazir Bhutto. However, TTP has denied these charges.

TTP activists neither live in caves and mountains nor are confined in tribal areas only.

Instead, they have expanded their deadly network in all major cities of Pakistan.

Most of their leaders are veterans of Afghan-Soviet war and highly trained fighters. Thus, TTP was able to successfully conduct most deadly attacks on governments’ installations, Paki-

stan’s armed forces and civilians.

At the outset, TTP was formed mainly to fight against the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan but almost all their fights have been against Pakistani state, the army and civilians so far. TTP role as a terrorist organization is indisputable. On August 25, 2008, the government banned TTP, froze its accounts and assets and barred it media appearances. Intelligence agencies alleged that TTP was supported and funded by foreign intelligent agencies operated from Afghanistan to destabilize Pakistan and create anarchy. Public opinion found in this regard is no coincidence. According to Pakistani intelligence agencies, TTP main bases are in South and North Waziristan and Afghanistan. Nonetheless, some of the attacks on Pakistan’s armed forces were recently carried by TTP militia based in Afghanistan. Their tactics involve kidnapping for ransom, suicide and grenade attacks, and small arms attack. TTP is now joined by criminal gangs engaged in ransom and exhortation across all major cities of Pakistan and having strong holds and have deeply penetrated into Karachi and Baluchistan’s capital Quetta. Whilst appreciating and acknowledging the sacrifices made by Pakistani police, armed forces and intelligence agencies, the failure of government and intelligence agencies to hunt TTP leaderships has been widely criticized by intelligentsia and society at large. Surprisingly, TTP leaderships are freely roaming around in the tribal areas and carrying out attacks on army installations, government assets and civilians without facing much resistance. Due to government’s incompetency, TTP has widened its agenda and started working closely with banned Sun-

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ni, militant groups; Sipah-e-Sahiba and Lashker Jengavi, to increase sectarian killings across the country-particularly in the Baluchsitan province. Moreover, reports say they are also working closely with the Baluchistan Liberation Army (a separatist group allegedly supported by foreign agencies based in Afghanistan) and other groups to carry out attacks on armed forces and non-Baluchis.

TTP draws its recruits from a mix bag of Madrassa’s students in Pakistan, militants of the origins of Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Chechnya and some Arab countries. Due to atrocities committed by TTP, it is hardly finding any sympathy in public. In the past, Pakistani government made many attempts to engage TTP in a dialogue process, but these remained futile. Recently, Sharif’s government also tried to start a dialogue process with TTP, but a US drone strike that killed Hakim-ullah-Mehsud, halted the process.

To take avenge of the killing of Meshud, TTP has threatened to increase attacks in the days to come.

Thus tougher days are ahead for Pakistanis. The onus is now on the military establishment and government how promptly they would neutralize and diligently deal with this mess to prevent further TTP attacks. In order to improve standard of living of average Pakistanis, reduce poverty and unemployment, Pakistan desperately needs stability and certainty. If both political and military leadership draws a solid plan to combat both internal and external security challenges the above tasks are not difficult to achieve. Any further delays to correct the situation will make only the matter worst.

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PCCA Celebrates Allama Iqbal Day

Pakistani Canadian Cultural Association celebrated 136th birthday of Sir Dr .Allama Mohammad Iqbal , a great scholar, thinker and poet of East. The event was held at Fleetwood center in Surrey and a large number of Pakistani community members participated in it. Mr. Tanveer Choudhry conducted very well as he recited Iqbal’s poetry throughout the program. Two beautiful performances on Iqbal poetry were given by

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Waraich, Master Ahmed Ghumman, Omar & Ali Warraich presented various items involving Iqbal’s works including his poetry and biography. Cheif guest Consul General of Pakistan Mr. Shuja Alam appreciated PCCA’s efforts to organise this program. He talked

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At the end PCCA media director Mr. Iftikhar Ghumman thanked everone who joined at the birthday celebration of a great thinker of subcontinent.

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