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Volume 13 Issue 355 Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 AH / February 7, 2014 - $1

ISRAEL GIVES PERMITS FOR 550 SETTLEMENT HOMES

The UN did not receive reports of formal recruitment of children by government forces, but troops and pro-government militia reportedly intimidated and seized young males, some under 18, to join them at checkpoints and during raids in pro-government and contested areas. The UN chief Ban Ki-moon said government forces “were responsible for the arrest, arbitrary detention and torture of children for their perceived or actual association with the opposition, and for using children as human shields.”

Israel has approved plans for more than 550 new homes in three settlement neighbourhoods of occupied East Jerusalem.

The Jerusalem municipality said its planning committee had granted permits to build 386 units in Har Homa, 136 units in Neve Yaakov and 36 units in Pisgat Zeev; built on land taken

by Israel in 1967. Israel captured East Jerusalem and other territory during the 1967 conflict and later annexed it in a move never recognised by the international community.

Issuing permits is one of the last stages before construction begins, with building likely to start in the coming weeks, Israel’s Peace Now settlement watchdog said. “We are talking about building permits, which is really the final stage,” spokesman Lior Amihai told the AFP news agency. “It’s a shameful decision, at a shameful time. A government that wants a two-state solution would not issue those amount of permits for East Jerusalem neighbourhoods.” According to figures from Peace Now, in the six months since peace talks between Israel and Palestinians began on July 29, the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu advanced plans for 7,302 new homes, including 4,880 in the West Bank and 2,422 in East Jerusalem. Figures for the whole of 2013 show that 2,433 new East Jerusalem homes were pushed through various stages of the lengthy planning process, indicating that almost all of them were advanced after the talks started.

Israel and the Palestinians resumed direct peace negotiations at the end of July with the aim of reaching an agreement within nine months. But the US-led talks have been overshadowed by Israel’s refusal to rein in construction plans on

Continued on pg 4

Continued on pg 7

U.S. agrees to curtail drone strikes as Pakistan seeks peace talks with Taliban

UN DECRIES CHILD ABUSE IN SYRIA The United Nations has accused both sides to the Syria conflict of grave violations against children. Children caught in the Syrian war are being recruited as child soldiers, used as human shields, and tortured, according to a new UN report. The report, released on Tuesday, found that in the early stages of the nearly three-year conflict, the Syrian government troops were largely responsible for grave violations against children; then, as the conflict intensified and armed opposition became more organised they committed an increasing number of child abuses.

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A D V E R T I S E R

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

P A K I S T A N

US curtails Drone strikes on Pakistan’s request: report

Washington: The United States has cut back sharply on drone strikes in Pakistan after the government asked for restraint while it seeks peace talks with the Pakistani Taliban, the Washington Post reported on Tuesday.

The Post quoted a US official as saying, “That’s what they asked for, and we didn’t tell them no.” The newspaper said there had been a lull in such attacks since December, the

longest break since 2011.

The newspaper said the Obama administration indicated it would continue carrying out strikes on senior Al Qaeda officials if they were to become available or to thwart any immediate threat to Americans.

Reuters was not immediately able to confirm the report.

The Post quoted a senior Obama administration official as denying an informal agreement had been reached, saying, “The issue of whether to negotiate with the Pakistani Taliban is entirely an internal matter for Pakistan.”

While some Pakistanis welcome the strikes, saying they kill fewer civilians and are more effective against Taliban militants than traditional military operations, others argue the strikes still cause civilian casualties, terrify residents and violate Pakistani sovereignty. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said he wants the drone strikes to end.

Source: Dawn Newspaper

Islamabad: Negotiators representing Pakistani Taliban insurgents said Wednesday there was no chance of peace in Pakistan until the government embraces Islamic Sharia law and US-led forces withdraw completely from neighbouring Afghanistan.

The tough conditions appear to deal a blow to hopes that peace talks with the Pakistani government could end the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) insurgency that has rocked the country since 2007.

Maulana Samiul Haq, the head of the TTP’s three-man talks team, told news agency AFP there could be “no peace” in the region while there were still US troops across the border. His comments were echoed by his fellow TTP negotiator Maulana Abdul Aziz, who also said the TTP’s long-held commitment to imposing sharia law across Pakistan was not open to debate.

“Without sharia law, the Taliban won’t accept (the talks) even one per cent,” he said. “If some factions accept it, then the others won’t accept it.”

“Their real agenda is sharia,” Aziz said, suggesting that all Pakistan’s secular courts based on the common law system be abolished. “I don’t think the government will accept this but they should, because war isn’t the way forward.”

On Afghanistan, Aziz said an endorsement of the security pact with Washington would scupper hopes for regional peace.“We think these (Afghanistan and Pakistan) are two brotherly countries. Peace in Pakistan means peace in Afghanistan and vice versa,” he said.

If Afghanistan signs the agreement, he said, “war will continue, and the clash between Muslims and the US will con-

tinue.” “If the agreement goes ahead, then the losses they (US) have experienced before, they will experience once again,” he added.

“If Americans remain in Afghanistan, there will be no peace in the region, it will be same, it will be unsafe,” said Samiul Haq. Initial peace talks failed to get under way Tuesday when the government delegation refused to meet the militants’ negotiators, citing confusion about the make-up of their team. However, Siddiqui said Wednesday that ambiguities regarding TTP negotiating team had now been clarified.

Siddiqui said that the government negotiators had no objection to the composition of the three-member Taliban team for peace talks.

He said that the government team wanted to start the dialogue process the previous day, but was waiting for some clarity from the Taliban side. However, he said, the confusion was cleared after a statement by TTP spokesman Shahidullah Shahid.

The TTP had initially nominated Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan, head of the Darul Uloom Haqqania seminary Maulana Samiul Haq, chief cleric of the Lal Masjid in Islamabad Maulana Abdul Aziz, Professor Mohammad Ibrahim of the Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), and Mufti Kifayatullah, a former lawmaker of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F). However, Imran Khan and Mufti Kifayatullah later refused to be part of the TTP committee.

“The three-member committee is final now and we have our full confidence in it to hold talks,” he said.

Source: Dawn Newspaper

‘Without Sharia, TTP won’t accept talks’

Gen Raheel meets with Saudi political, military leadership

Rawalpindi: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif Wednesday called on Saudi Crown Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud on the first day of his official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Gen Sharif was also conferred upon King Abdul Aziz Medal of Excellence by the crown prince, said an ISPR press release.

The army chief held separate meetings with Deputy Interior Minister Abdul Rahman bin Ali Al-Rubaian, Chief of General Staff Royal Saudi Armed Forces General Hussain bin Abdullah AlQubayyal and Commander Royal Saudi Land Forces Lieutenant General Eid bin Awadh Al-Shalwi.The meetings focused on defence and security cooperation, regional stability and steps towards strengthening bonds between the two countries.

The COAS reiterated goodwill of the government and people of Pakistan, and thanked the Saudi leadership for KSA’s support to Pakistan and its armed forces.

Gen Raheel Sharif was also the guest of honour at a lunch-

eon hosted by General Hussain bin Abdullah Al-Qubayyal.

The Pakistani army chief is on a three-day official visit at the invitation of Saudi authorities.

His interaction with senior political and military leadership of Saudi Arabia will encompass Pak-Saudi relations with particular emphasis on defence and security cooperation.

Saudi Crown Prince Salman, who happens to be Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia as well, is due to visit Pakistan on a threeday official visit from February 15 to 17.

Last month, Saudi Foreign Minister Saud Al-Faisal also visited Pakistan amid speculation circling in the media regarding a likely deal between Pakistani and Saudi government to provide General (retd) Pervez Musharraf a safe exit out of the country.

The former military ruler is currently facing high treason charges for imposing a sate of emergency in Pakistan and dislodging judges of the superior courts in 2007.

Source: Dawn Newspaper

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4 I N T E R N A T I O N A L Cancer cases growing Elections Act Overhaul ‘at an alarming pace,’ Would Lift Ban On Early Reporting Of Results report highlights Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

Governments must make better use of vaccines and preventative public health policies in the fight against cancer as treatment alone cannot stem the disease, a World Health Organization (WHO) agency said on Monday. The WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) said cancer was growing “at an alarming pace” worldwide and new strategies were needed to curb the sometimes fatal and often costly disease. “It’s untenable to think we can treat our way out of the cancer problem. That alone will not be a sufficient response,” Christopher Wild, IARC’s director and co-editor of its World Cancer Report 2014, told reporters at a London briefing. “More commitment to prevention and early detection is desperately needed … to complement improved treatments and address the alarming rise in the cancer burden globally.” The World Cancer Report, which is only produced roughly once every five years, involved a collaboration of around 250 scientists from more than 40 countries. It said access to effective and relatively inexpensive cancer drugs would significantly cut death rates, even in places where health-care services are less well developed. The spiralling costs of cancer are hurting the economies of even the richest countries and are often way beyond the reach of poorer nations. In 2010, the total annual economic cost of cancer was estimated at around $1.16-trillion. Yet around half of all cancers could be avoided if current knowledge about cancer prevention was properly implemented, Wild told reporters. The report said that in 2012 – the latest year for which data are available – new cancer cases rose to an estimated 14 million a year, a figure expected to grow to 22 million within the next two decades.

Over the same period, cancer deaths are predicted to rise from an estimated 8.2 million a year to 13 million per year. The data mean that at current rates, one in five men and one in six women worldwide will develop cancer before they reach 75 years old, while one in eight men and one in 12 women will die from the disease. In 2012, the most common cancers diagnosed were lung, breast and colon or bowel cancers, while the most common causes of cancer death were lung, liver and stomach cancers. As populations across the world are both growing and aging, IARC said developing countries were disproportionately affected by the increasing numbers of cancers. “Behind each one of these numbers, there’s an individual and a family faced with a tragic situation,” Wild said.

More than 60 per cent of the world’s total cases occur in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, and these regions account for about 70 per cent of the world’s cancer deaths, it said. The situation is made worse in poorer countries by the lack of early detection and access to treatment. “Governments must show political commitment to progressively step up the implementation of high-quality screening and early detection programs, which are an investment rather than a cost,” said Bernard Stewart, another co-editor of the report. The experts highlighted efforts to curb rates of smoking, the use of vaccines to prevent infections that cause cervical and liver cancers and policies aimed at bringing down rates of obesity as key areas in which more should be done. “Adequate legislation can encourage healthier behaviour,” said Stewart.

Source: Globe and Mail

Libya has completely destroyed the chemical arsenal it inherited from Muammar Gaddafi, 10 years after the now slain leader signed the Chemical Weapons Convention, Foreign Minister Mohamed Abdelaziz announced. The completion of the disarmament process, begun under the ousted regime but was interrupted by the NATO-backed uprising that overthrew it, comes as the much bigger operation underway in Syria is seriously behind schedule to the mounting alarm of the West. “Libya has become totally free of usable chemical weapons that might present a potential threat to the security of local communities, the environment

and neighbouring areas,” the minister said on Tuesday. “This achievement would not have been possible in such a short time, without concerted efforts within an international partnership, or without the logistical support and the technical assistance from Canada, Germany and the USA, which provided the opportunity to use very advanced, safe and reliable technology.” Abdelaziz was speaking at a ceremony to mark the milestone that was attended by Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) chief Ahmet Uzumcu, who hailed international support for the disarmament operation, which he said was now being mir-

The Conservative government’s proposed overhaul of Canada’s election laws aims to impose harsher penalties on those who break the rules and tighten ID requirements for voters. The legislation, introduced Tuesday, would also raise individual political donations limit to $1,500 from $1,200 and lift the ban on early transmission of results on election night, meaning voters in B.C. may have a good idea of which party is leading before they cast a ballot. The bill also aims to give the office of the commissioner of elections, which is responsible for enforcing elections laws, more independence, said Pierre Poilievre, the minister of state for democratic reform. The commissioner of elections, currently appointed by the chief electoral officer, would be appointed by the director of public prosecutions in the future. “I believe that the commissioner of Canada elections, who’s sort of a watchdog, should not only have sharper teeth and a longer reach, which we’re giving him, but also a freer hand,” Poilievre told CTV’s Power Play on Tuesday. “That means independence. Right now, legally, he doesn’t control his staff, his budget.” Earlier Tuesday, Poilievre told a news conference that “the referee should not be wearing a team jersey.” Poilievre said the commissioner can also be fired without notice, so the legislation proposes a fixed, seven-year term.

“That kind of independence will allow him to investigate potential infractions of the Canada Elections Act and to protect the integrity

of our system,” he said. “The enforcement of elections law should be done impartially.”

The incumbent commissioner, Yves Cote, has more than five years left in his term. Opposition critics argue that the Conservative government is trying to get revenge on Elections Canada because it has been the subject of elections-related investigations. During the last federal election, the Conservative Party was accused of voter suppression tactics.

Three of its MPs have since been charged with election overspending. “The reason I doubt anything the Conservatives say on electoral matters is they have a proven track record of consistently cheating in elections,” NDP Leader Tom Mulcair said outside the House of Commons. Inside the House, Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau accused the government of wanting “to strip Elections Canada of its investigative powers.” Prime Minister Stephen Harper responded by saying that moving the elections commissioner out of Elections Canada will result in better investigations. “That should help the independence and the effectiveness of law enforcement,” he said. Poilievre said there is no “new bureaucracy” in the government’s proposal. “It simply moves the existing commissioner and his staff into an independent office so there is no new administrative cost associated with their salaries, nor does it mean they have to hire new people.”

Source: CTV News

rored in Syria. It provided a “good example of international cooperation now emulated in Syria on a larger scale,” the OPCW chief said. Uzumcu said he had visited the city of Al-Raogha, around 700 kilometres south of the capital Tripoli, earlier in the day to inspect the warehouse where Libya’s largest outstanding stockpile of mustard gas had been housed before its destruction. The OPCW chief said Libya still held stocks of low-grade Category 2 precursor chemicals but that a programme had been put in place to destroy them by the end of 2016. The watchdog’s work only covers the Gaddafi regime’s chemical weapons programme and

has not addressed the stocks of concentrated uranium, or yellowcake, that it acquired in its bid for a nuclear weapon. At the end of 2011, in the aftermath of the revolution that toppled Gaddafi, a large stock of yellowcake was discovered at an arms depot in the main southern city of Sebha. The stockpile has since been secured in collaboration with International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors. But the Centre for Strategic Studies in Tripoli has asked the Libyan authorities to ensure the concentrated uranium is used for the benefit of Libyans, in “industrial and agricultural development and in the production of clean energy”. Source: Al-Jazeera

Libya Says All Chemical Weapons Destroyed

UN. Continued from pg 1 Witnesses have told UN investigators that the majority of children were held in the same cells as adults and that children as young as 11 were tortured. The report found that some of the treatment children were subjected to included “beatings with metal cables, whips and wooden and metal batons; electric shocks, including to the genitals; the ripping out of fingernails and toenails; sexual violence, including rape or threats of rape; mock executions; cigarette burns; sleep deprivation; solitary confinement; and exposure to the torture of relatives.” In one account in 2011, government forces used at least eight children as hostages against the opposition to surrender.

The UN says it does not know their fate. The UN has previously reported on child abuse, but this is the first report to the UN Security Council detailing the worsening extent of the problem covering the period March 1, 2011 to November 15, 2013. “Of particular concern were cases

of recruitment or attempted recruitment of children within refugee populations in neighbouring countries.

The majority of incidents were related to recruitment by Free Syrian Army-affiliated groups (FSA) or Syrian Kurdish armed groups,” Ban said. The lack of education or job opportunities and peer pressure were identified as key factors leading to the recruitment of refugee children, according to the report. Within Syria, Ban’s report said the UN “received consistent reports of recruitment and use of children by FSA-affiliated groups” but that it was not conducted as a policy or systematically. “Many boys stated that they felt it was their duty to join the opposition,” the report said. Children have been trained with weapons and knives by the FSA, according to reports, and used as cooks, porters, smugglers, spies, messengers and lookouts. The decision to arm a child to participate in attacks was made on an individual basis and according to the rules of each armed group. “Many are killed not only

because they’re fighting, but because they’re performing these functions and are in the middle of the battle fields,” Leila Zerrougui, Special Representative of the SecretaryGeneral for Children and Armed Conflict, told Al Jazeera.

A first round of peace talks in Geneva concluded on Friday without progress towards ending Syria’s civil war or reducing the violence, which regularly kills more than 100 people a day. The government and opposition parties are due to meet for a second round of negotiations next week. The UN has accused at least 14 groups for committing serious offences against children. According to its estimates, more than 100,000 people have been killed in Syria, including more than 10,000 children. More than two million people - mostly women and children - have fled Syria’s conflict, which began in March 2011 with popular protests against President Bashar al-Assad and spiralled into civil war after a crackdown by security for ces.

Source :Al-Jazeera

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

EU corruption costing economy £100bn a year - report Corruption across the Europe costs £99 billion (€120bn) a year, the European Commission has estimated in a report that urged Britain to do more to fight foreign bribery. In its first annual report, the commission declined to set out any ranking of corruption levels country by country and decided to suppress findings on fraud within European Union institutions. Cecilia Malmstroem, the European home affairs commissioner, described levels of corruption across the EU as “breath-taking” and criticised governments for failing to tackle the problem. “One thing is very clear: there is no ‘corruption-free’ zone in Europe. The political commitment to really root out corruption seems to be missing,” she said. “The price of not acting is simply too high.” Britain was among countries criticised for failing to clean up and regu-

late the financing of political parties, a problem that the commission defined as a major factor in corruption. In non-binding recommendations, the UK was asked to “cap donations to political parties, impose limits on electoral campaign spending and ensure proactive monitoring and prosecution of potential violations”. The commission backed plans by the Serious Fraud Office and recommended “further preventive measures to effectively address risks of foreign bribery and providing sectorspecific guidelines to companies in areas which may be at increased risk, such as defence”. Less than one per cent of Britons, five people out of the 1,115 surveyed by the commission, reported that they had been asked for a bribe, the “best result in Europe”. In contrast between six to 29 per cent of people in Croatia, the Czech

Republic, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Romania and Greece said they had been expected to pay a bribe. Almost all companies in Greece, Spain and Italy believe corruption is widespread but it is considered rare in Denmark, Finland and Sweden, the report found. Recent research by Transparency International’s named Greece as the worst performer in the EU, sharing 80th place with China. Denmark was seen as the least corrupt country. The commission’s report did not rank EU countries, ranging from Sweden to Bulgaria, on differing levels of the seriousness of corruption and did not make any legal proposals. Officials have also been criticised for dropping a section of the report that covered corruption in EU institutions and funds following annual criticism by the European Court of Auditors on the spending of the Brussels bud-

get. “Its refusal to carry out a study into corruption in its own institutions shows that it is very touchy about its public image,” said Paul Nuttall MEP, the deputy leader of Ukip. “Instead of analysing, facing up to, and changing the culture of corruption within its own walls, the commission would rather cover up and keep quiet about it.”

Source: Telegraph

Efforts to resolve Ukraine crisis continue

Western politicians are returning to Ukraine this week to resolve the political crisis that has gripped the country for months, with the US saying it is in preliminary discussions to provide financial aid to the protesthit country. According to the news agency AFP, the European Union’s head of foreign policy, Catherine Ashton, is in Kiev to

meet with the government and the opposition to try to resolve the stalemate between the two sides. US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Victoria Nuland, is also travelling to the Ukrainian capital this week. In Washington a US /State Department spokesman said on Monday that the US was in “pre-

liminary” talks about putting together a financial aid package for Ukraine. Jen Psaki said: “Let me be clear, this is at a very preliminary stage. We are consulting with the EU ... and other partners about the support Ukraine may need after a new technical government is formed.” Opposition leader Arseniy Yatsenyuk has asked for $20bn, a similar sized package to the one promised by Russia that is now on hold. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President Viktor Yanukovich, who joined office on Monday after a brief illness, criticised mass protests against his government as “extremism”. Yanukovich criticised the anti-government movement as “radicalism and incitement to hatred behind which there is a struggle for power”. The renewed attempts to resolve the crisis come as disagreement and confusion emerged among activists about the way forward. Some anti-government activists have agreed with the police to demolish a major barricade and end their two-month occupation of City Hall in exchange for the amnesty of all arrested protesters. According to a report published on the Korrespondent news website on Monday, Andrei Paruby, from the opposition Batkivshchyna party, and representatives from other activist

groups met Aleksand Yakimenko, the head of Security Service of Ukraine, and Viktor Dubovik, the first deputy of minister of internal affairs, on Friday. Roman Dashavets, an anti-government activist, told Al Jazeera’s Tamila Varshalomidze: “It is true that negotiations took place and the decision was made to demolish barricades on Grushevskogo, restore traffic movement and vacate the Town Hall building.”

Dashavets said he was not present at the talks, but he talked to those who were.

“According to the deal, the jailed activists should first be freed and then our side will do their part. But I think something will go wrong, one side is bound to make some step that will make this impossible.” But other activists disgreed with the decision to cooperate with security forces. “It’s not possible. If we demolish the barricade, people will be left without any protection.

They will be out on a flat spot ready to be dispersed,” Dima Krizskiy, who leads a group of activists, said. “If we go through with this, it would mean the protests are over.” Krizskiy said his group of activists did not recognise the authority of opposition leaders such as Paruby and Vitaly Klitschko.

Source: Al-Jazeera

Landmark Rwanda genocide trial opens in Paris A landmark trial of a former Rwandan army captain charged with complicity in the 1994 genocide that left more than 500,000 people dead has begun in a Paris court. Pascal Simbikangwa, 54, will face charges of complicity in genocide and of crimes against humanity in a trial that is expected to last seven weeks. He has denied the accusations against him and could face life in prison if found guilty.

The former intelligence chief, who was left paraplegic after a 1986 car accident, appeared in court in a wheelchair. “I was a captain in the Rwandan army then in the intelligence services,” Simbikangwa, a small, bald man wearing a brown jacket and white tracksuit bottoms, told the court in an opening statement. He is accused of inciting, organising and aiding massacres during the genocide, particularly by supplying arms, instructions and encouragement to Interahamwe Hutu militia who were manning road blocks and killing Tutsi men, women and children. Simbikangwa is being tried under laws adopted in 1996 and 2010 that allow French courts to con-

sider cases of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Rwanda and other countries. The trial is the first of its kind in France. Through the trial, France - Rwanda’s former coloniser - is also trying to come to terms with its much-criticised response to the mass murder. Activists say they hope the trial will remind French leaders of their role and responsibility in Africa, and mark the end of an era in which France provided a haven for those who committed atrocities abroad.

In 2004, the European Court for Human Rights based in Strasbourg condemned France for taking too long to consider one woman’s legal effort over the Rwanda genocide. Bernard Kouchner, a humanitarian aid activist in Rwanda at the time and later French foreign minister, said the Simbikangwa trial is long overdue. “France played a bad role in this genocide,” Kouchner said in an interview with the AP news agency. Under former President Francois Mitterrand, France armed and trained Rwandan forces, ignored government abuses, and helped some genocide perpe-

trators flee the country, critics say. After the genocide, successive French governments and the state apparatus repeatedly thwarted attempts to exposeFrance’s role, while letting into France some suspected to have blood on their hands, they say. Al Jazeera’s Emma Hayward, reporting from Paris, said that many people have been waiting for the trial for a long time. “There has been a real sense of frustration in Kigali over France’s seeming inability to extradite some of the Rwandan suspects from the genocide,” she said. “I think many people are hoping that what happens in the courtroom here will throw some light on what happened all those years ago in Rwanda.” Paris had close ties to the government of President Juvenal Habyarimana, an ethnic Hutu who died when his aircraft was shot down on April 6, 1994.

His death set off a 100-day bloodbath of reprisal slayings of ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus, leaving hundreds of thousands dead. It ended when Tutsi-led rebels under current President Paul Kagame defeated Hutu fighters. Simbikangwa was arrested

in 2008 on France’s Indian Ocean island of Mayotte, where he had been living under an alias. French courts have refused to allow his extradition to Rwanda.

Source: Al-Jazeera

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E D I T O R I A L

Low Loonie Vital For Economic Rebalance The CAD (Canadian dollar) has started a downward slide at a pace faster than it was initially anticipated. In the beginning, the CAD’s retreat was treated as a positive sign with hopes about generating economic recovery, yet it’s becoming more and more frustrating as the dollar keeps sliding downward; it’s already around 11 cents below parity with the USD (Greenback).

However, the Canadian manufacturing sector and the Canadian Government appear to be welcoming the dollar’s weakness. There is a sigh of relief in the concerned quarters, because the critical issue of trade deficit seems to be resolved partially if not fully eliminated.

The exporters foresee the boosted profits they hope to derive from the lower exchange rate. Simply because with the previously rising CAD, the exports had reduced significantly causing a trade deficit which happened to be responsible for having disturbed the balance of payments; this scenario damaged the Canadian economics to a great extent.

Other beneficiaries of Lower Dollar: Since the stronger CAD always tends to hurt the Canadian manufacturers by making it more expensive to sell any type of goods in the U.S., a weaker CAD is better. And, if the CAD is low, Canadian companies that export goods to the U.S. get a boost because they’re able to generate revenue in higher-valued USD (US dollar); the Canadian manu-

facturers are able to market their product south of the border with more competitiveness. Thus, the manufacturers and exporters are the big winners when the CAD drops.

Other beneficiaries of the low loonie include foreign tourists/ vacationers with higher valued currencies are excitedly attracted to Canadian places of attractions.

The same goes for the foreign investment in Canadian real estate.

Home prices may be up this year, but the low dollar still makes property at bargain prices for people who make their money in other currencies. That’s why the Canadian economists have solid reasons to see success in a lowervalued loonie.

According to a report released by the Bank of Montreal on January 16th, a 10 percent drop in the Canadian dollar may boost Canada’s GDP by as much as 1.5 percent over two years.

Surely, the extra growth mostly comes from additional profitable exports, along with increased tourism and foreign investment in Canadian real estate.

On the contrary, as the CAD is now below $0.90 (USD), the concerned ones are raising their eyebrows over the devaluation perceiving something fishy there.

And, there is some type of a reverse scenario as the cross border shopping is thought to be out of question. Because, the current lower exchange rate adversely affects the Canadian shoppers.

Air travel for the Canadians to domestic or overseas destinations is becoming extremely difficult.

The weaker purchasing power is to be blamed as this culprit has overpowered the potential vacationers.

“The downward trend in the Canadian dollar is too strong to fight or attempt to pick a bottom,” Scotia bank chief currency strategist Camilla Sutton wrote in a note last Friday.

The most painful is the integrated North American market for gasoline; it’s already costing the Canadians financially to cover the difference in exchange rate.

Buying Gasoline with Canadian currency cost the consumers more as CAD is less in value now. The loonie drops in value, so does the price of various imported items in Canada.

As, the Canadian retailers depend on imports from the United States, the dollar related weak purchasing power compels them to boost the prices; this produces a financial strain which in turn becomes a major disturbing factor.

Moreover, a falling dollar has negative impact on investments in the US by the Canadian investors, because buying US stocks and mutual funds with CAD is way too expensive. In fact, investors will lose if they buy U.S. investments with Canadian dollars.

For those who hold accounts of American stocks or mutual fund units, the value of those accounts will typically rise if the Canadian dollar falls. That shows that any returns you make will get some boost. This is encouraging that the falling dollar would lead to

surge in exports; which would compensate for the increase in prices for the imports.

Forecast for 2014: The sales pace in 2013 was “neither too hot, nor too cold,” said TD Bank economist Diana Petramala. She is forecasting sales to stabilize this year and prices to grow by a “moderate” 2 per cent. Many economists believe that demand for housing would remain steady this year. The economic growth is expected to pick up. And, the interest rates are likely to stay around historically low levels.

Furthermore, the rate of inflation in Canada is based on the consumer price index (CPI). An assessment is made of how much the CPI has risen in percentage terms over a given period of time compared to the CPI in a preceding period. A negative inflation (deflation) is said to have taken place if prices fall. The deflation actually is more dangerous than inflation.

Let’s remember: The BOC’s most important objective is to maintain the value of Canadian currency by keeping inflation low and stable within the range of 1 percent and 3 percent. The bank is interested in a stable and secured currency.

If the BOC (as central bank) sets a new target for the level of the key interest rate, this would lead to a change in the interest rates for loans, mortgages and savings; which have an effect on the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar.

Despite all market manipulations, the BOC tries hard to

Letters & Opinions The Gainers and the Losers!

You decide who lost and who gained?

By: Prof. Syed B. Soharwardy Islamic Supreme Council of Canada; Calgary Scenario 1: A Muslim lived Islamic to the best of his/her abilities but also participated in the gatherings where he/she learnt more about Islam, Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). By attending such gatherings during the month of Rabi ul Awwal, he/she felt more connected with Rasoolullah (peace be upon him) and increased love for him. On the other side, a second person also lived Islamic to the best of his/ her abilities but did not attend any gathering where he could have learnt more about Islam, Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His feelings and attachment with Rasool-ullah (peace be upon him) remains the same as it was before Rabi ul Awwal. No change.

Who gained and who lost? The one who attended gatherings of Milad Sharif OR the one who did not?

Scenario 2: A Muslim lived a sinful life and did not follow the teachings of Islam to the best of

his/her abilities but participated in the gatherings where he/she learnt more about Islam, Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). By attending such gatherings during the month of Rabi ul Awwal, he/she felt ashamed and developed some love for Rasool-ullah (peace be upon him). On the other side, a second person also lived a sinful life and did not follow the teachings of Islam to the best of his/her abilities and neither participated in the gatherings where he/she could have learnt more about Islam, Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Since this Muslim did not attend any gathering during the month of Rabi ul Awwal, he/she did not develop any further love for Rasool-ullah (peace be upon him). No change.

Who gained and who lost? The one who attended gatherings of Milad Sharif OR the one who did not?

With Peace (Ma’assalamah)

predictions aren’t always reliable.

Today, even the advises and predictions from the Health authorities on many things are failing, One day the Red wine is bad for the health, next it is good for the health. Even the Doctors (doctorsTV) cheers with the Glass of wine.When Allah forbids something can never be good at any time whatsoever.Certain, medicine one minute is good for this and that, the same medicine is danger to mankind. Ref. Health Science.

One needs to watch Dr. Oz TV show that will blow our minds.

He is also shocked to such contradicting reports of mind bogglingchanging of good and bad.

Some Dieticians are just discovering the benefits of some spices, Fruits, and Vegetables, and the healing power of Honey, the danger of some food coloring (#5) and certain ingredients of which the Muslims are aware of it since 14c. which we too learned when we converted to Islam.

Thank GOD-Allah the Creator of all good, brought us to Islam andgave the knowledge of good and By: Ghulshal Aalani bad.Thus the only predictions and Vancouver Very interesting! Well, the humanProphecies from the Prophets are the most reliable and never fails as

What is Good and What is Bad?

604-690-0400 Stephen Harper welcomed as ‘great friend’ they are inspired

by Allah-CreatorGOD.Who has the clear mesofgiven Israel

sages in the Books of Prophecies and the enlightenment.

Messenger Muhammad SAWS mentioned about the future time calamities, and sufferings of mankind, the mischief of Dajjaal, the increase of women and decrease of Men (through the female abortions),which is also proven true by the Social Science, and the time when the Machines will take over, etc. All is right in front of our eyes. calamities, and sufferings of mankind, the mischief of Dajjaal, the increase of women and decrease of Men (through the female abortions),which is also proven true by the Social Science, and the time when the Machines will take over, etc. All is right in front of our eyes.

Letters Continued on pg 12 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.

maintain its monetary policy to facilitate the dollar to continue onto its own course. The ongoing presence of inflationary or deflationary pressure is to be taken into consideration for setting the direction of interest rates.

Benefit of the soaring loonie can’t be denied as it trims heavy national debt and the imports become cheaper for the consumers, yet a weaker loonie is so vital to cure the faltering economy by encouraging economic boost up.

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

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

F A I T H On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), who said that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

“When Allah decreed the Creation He pledged Himself by writing in His book which is laid down with Him: ‘My mercy prevails over my wrath.’”

[Muslim (also by al-Bukhari, an-Nasa’i and Ibn Majah)]

Abu Bakr (RA) - the protector of slaves, his companions By: AISHA STACEY Abu Bakr was a man of shrewd judgment. He was able to discern the truth. Thus, he found it very easy to see the truth in Islam but realized that the words of Muhammad (peace be upon him) would cause a rift in Makkan society.

The leaders of Makkan would not tolerate anything that put their economic situation or lifestyles in jeopardy.

Abu Bakr knew that difficult times lay ahead and felt it was his duty to protect his companion, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The two friends saw each other everyday and their friendship grew stronger as their understanding of Islam grew and took root in their hearts. For three years Islam blossomed in secret. The new Muslims spread the message of Islam through a network of trusted friends and families, but the time came when God commanded Prophet Muhammad to spread the message in public.

Abu Bakr understood that life would become difficult as the leaders of Makkah realized how many people were accepting Islam. He knew that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would require his protection, but over the months, Abu Bakr also took on the role of protector for many new Muslims. As more and more people converted to Islam the non-Muslim leaders of Makkah began a campaign of persecution and abuse designed to destroy the new faith. Most of the men, women and children from the tribes of Makkah had the protection of their families, but the slaves and the poor were particularly vulnerable.

It was the slaves and the destitute that were particularly attracted to the teachings of Islam. They heard the words of equality, freedom, and the mercy of the One True God and saw it as a way to escape the brutality of their existence and find comfort in the forgiveness and love of God. They learned that all men were slaves of God and that He offered guidance and protection to all, not just the elite classes. Abu Bakr was a rich merchant and was able to ease the suffering of many slaves by buying them from their

masters and setting them free.

Among the slaves set free by Abu Bakr was Bilal[1], the man destined to become the first man to call the faithful to prayer.

Bilal’s master would make him lie on burning sand and have large slabs of rock placed on his chest, but he refused to give up his new faith. When Abu Bakr heard of Bilal’s condition, he raced to free him. In all, Abu Bakr freed eight slaves, four men and four women. Although the buying and freeing slaves were not unknown in Makkan society, it was usually done for far less altruistic reasons. Once a slave was freed, he was honor-bound to offer his protection to the one who freed him, and for this reasons the rich Makkans would free slaves that were physically fit and strong. Abu Bakr feed slaves for the sake of God, not for himself.

“Those who spend their wealth for increase in self-purification; And have in their minds no favor from any one For which a reward is expected in return, But only the desire to seek the Countenance, Of their Lord, Most High; And soon they shall attain complete satisfaction.” (Qur’an, 92:18-21) Protecting his companion One day, when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was in Kaaba (House of God), the Makkans surrounded him and started taunting and verbally abusing him, and very quickly it esca-

tion of the peace process,” she said in a statement. The Palestinians want East Jerusalem for the capital of their future state. They, along with the international community, consider settlement construction there as well as in the occupied West Bank a violation of international law.

Source: Al-Jazeera

Words of praise Ali ibn Abu Talib also gave Abu Bakr’s funeral oration. The following passages are just a small sample of his words of praise for Prophet’s closest companion.

“You supported him when others had deserted him, and you remained firm in helping him in misfortunes when others had withdrawn their support. “You had the lowest voice but the highest distinction. Your conversation was most exemplary and your reasoning most just; your silence was longest in duration, and your speech was most eloquent. Bravest among men, and well-informed about matters, your action was dignified.” Thus was Abu Bakr, the protector.

Courtesy of www.islamreligion.com

Prayer Schedule in Greater Vancouver Feb 7 - 21, 2014 Rabiul Thani 7 - 21, 1435H

ISRAEL: Continued from pg 1 land the Palestinians want for a future state.

Senior Palestinian official Hanan Ashrawi condemned Israeli building policy in East Jerusalem.

“Israel is engaging in the deliberate provocation of the Palestinians to drive them to leave the negotiations in protest of Israeli violations, and therefore should be blamed for the destruc-

lated to physical abuse. When Abu Bakr heard this, he rushed to Kaaba and pushed into the middle of the fight, placing himself between Prophet Muhammad and his attackers. He cried out, “Would you kill a man for saying that Allah is his Lord”.[2] The Makkans were momentarily stunned, but within seconds they fell upon Abu Bakr and beat him mercilessly. The beating was so severe that the blood flew from his head and clotted his hair.

On another occasion, when the Prophet was praying, one of the Makkan elites threw a piece of cloth around his neck and began to strangle him. Nobody came the Prophet’s rescue. When Abu Bakr saw this, he rushed over and fought off the attacker.

A story that comes from Ali ibn Abu Talib epitomizes Abu Bakr’s reputation as a quiet achiever who never put his own needs first and was devoted to Islam and its messenger, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

When Ali was the leader of the Muslims, many years after the deaths of both Prophet Muhammad and Abu Bakr, he made a speech in which he enquired of his audience, “Who is the most courageous man in Islam?” The audience responded, “You! Ameer Al-Mumineen (leader of the faith-

ful)” Ali had a fierce reputation as a warrior and brave fighter. He looked at the men seated before him and said, “It is true I have never faced an opponent and lost, but I am not the most courageous. That honor belongs to Abu Bakr.”

Ali went on to relate that in the Battle of Badr, the first battle the fledging Muslim nation faced, the Muslims refused to let Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) be in the front lines and instead built a shelter for him at the back. The men were asked who would volunteer to guard the Prophet, but none would step forward except Abu Bakr. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stayed in the shelter for sometime, praying for the success of his small nation, and Abu Bakr could be seen walking back and forth, his sword unsheathed, ready to repel any threat to his beloved companion.

Later in the battle, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) led the center battalion and Abu Bakr the right flank. They were friends united in all circumstances, in times of ease or hardship. Abu Bakr is an example of a courageous man prepared to use his wealth, abilities and strength in the service of Islam and ready to give up his life for the sake of God or to protect God’s messenger.

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Date Day Fajar Sunr Zawal Dhuhr Fri 5:44 7:32 12:31 12:36 7 Sat 5:43 7:31 12:31 12:36 8 9 Sun 5:41 7:29 12:31 12:36 10 Mon 5:40 7:27 12:31 12:36 Tue 5:40 7:27 12:31 12:36 11 Wed 5:37 7:24 12:31 12:36 12 13 Thu 5:35 7:22 12:31 12:36 Fri 5:34 7:21 12:31 12:36 14 Sat 5:32 7:19 12:31 12:36 15 16 Sun 5:30 7:17 12:31 12:36 17 Mon 5:29 7:15 12:31 12:36 Tue 5:27 7:13 12:31 12:36 18 Wed 5:25 7:12 12:31 12:36 19 Thu 5:24 7:10 12:30 12:35 20 Fri 5:22 7:08 12:30 12:35 21

Asar

Maghrib

Isha

15:33 15:34 15:36 15:37 15:37 15:40 15:42 15:44 15:45 15:47 15:48 15:50 15:51 15:53 15:54

17:27 17:29 17:31 17:32 17:32 17:36 17:37 17:39 17:41 17:42 17:44 17:46 17:47 17:49 17:51

18:49 18:51 18:52 18:54 18:54 18:57 18:58 19:00 19:01 19:03 19:04 19:06 19:07 19:09 19:11

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

8

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

L O C A L

Celebrations at Masjid Anwar e Medina

On Jan 25, Eid Milad-Un-Nabi(saw) was celebrated with great respect and honor in Masjid Anwar-e-Madina in Surrey. Mr. Afroz Dean Saifi was the master of ceremony and conducted the program successfully.

The program started with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Afterwards, there was a beautiful Naat-e-rasool Maqbool (saw) session, starting with local Naat Khawans. Mr. Afroz also delivered lecture on Seerat un Nabi (saw) in English and recited some Urdu poetry too. He gave few references from the Quran such as Sura Al-Inshirah (94)Ayats 3-5.”Allazee anqada zahrak, Wa raf ‘ana laka zikrak, Fa inna ma’al usri yusra.”( Which had weighed upon your back, And raised high for you your repute. For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.) He also narrated few Hadiths.

Imam and Khateeb of Masjid Anwar e Madina Maulana Syed Imroz Dean Saifi started his speech with few Quranic Ayaat.

He delivered a powerful speech in Urdu, in which he told the birth history of Mohammad(PBUH) and then narrated Seerat un Nabi in the light of Quran and Sunnah as well as authentic religious books.

He discussed in details why Sunni Muslims celebrate Eid Milad un Nabi(saw).

Our Mohammad(saw) is Allah’s gift of mercy and kindness for us and the mankind.

We all should obey the teachings of Islam and promote practice of Prophet’s Mohammad (saw) i.e. Sunnah in our daily life. He also said that our Mohammad (pbuh) always cared and worried for his Ummah and made Duaa for his followers. He explained the level of love of our beloved Prophet Mohammed (saw) and Allah (swt) by recited few Naats and poetry. Maulana Imroz said that we have almost forgotten the teachings of Quran and our Prophet’s (saw) actions.

Everyone should make duaa for forgiveness and guidance from Allah (swt).

The audience fully enjoyed this spiritual gathering.

Mr. Afroz Dean then thanked all the guests and community members who joined this gathering and also admired the efforts of volunteers, supporters and those who made the delicious food for everyone.

At the end, Darood o Salam was recited and Duaa made for all Muslim Ummah.

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

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10

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

S P E C I A L

WOMAN DIES STRANGLED BY SCARF CAUGHT IN ESCALATOR AT A MONTREAL METRO STATION

A 48-year-old woman died last week in the Fabre metro station after it appears her scarf and then her hair got caught in the teeth of the escalator. She was strangled by her scarf.

The incident, which has been deemed an accident by Montreal police, happened at 9:15 a.m. at the station on Jean Talon St. E. in the Villeray district.

“A bystander called 911 and by the time police arrived, she was declared dead.”

Fabre is on the blue line, but no metro service was disrupted. The STM said this was a police matter and had no comment other than offering condolences to the family of the woman who died.

Police will be studying surveillance video to ascertain exactly how the woman became

caught.

Metro escalators have proven dangerous in the past.

In 1989, a 2-year-old girl lost four fingers on her right hand after an incident involving an escalator at the Guy-Concordia metro.

The girl dropped a bag of raisins on to the escalator, which she was riding with her mother.

When she reached down to pick it up, her hand got caught in the gap between the side of the escalator and the moving stair.

Doctors could save only her thumb. Her other fingers had to be amputated.

In 1997, Quebec Superior Court ordered Montreal’s transit authority to pay the girl’s family $341,000 plus interest and indemnities.

The judge in that case found that transit au-

thority personnel had been aware for a long time that spaces between the sides of 120 métro escalators and the moving stairs exceeded the 6-millimetre provincial Labour Department norms.

“It was dangerous and it constituted a trap for users,” the judge wrote.

Transit escalators have been the cause of deaths in the past.

Last year, a Seattle man died after he fell on an escalator at a transit station and his shirt became stuck, choking him to death.

In Boston, two people have died in escalator accidents in recent years.

In 2009, a woman fell on an escalator and a piece of her clothing got caught in the machinery. She suffered cardiac arrest and died.

Hijab an expression of chastity and modesty.

The virtue of wearing Hijab explained in this verse is that Muslim woman will be identified as respectable woman when she wears Hijab.

2. Hijab is purity: “And when you ask (the Prophet’s wives) for anything you want, ask them from behind a screen: that is purer for your hearts and for their hearts.” [al-Ahzab: 53] The heart may become more pure with the Hijab as the sight is blocked and there will be prevention of evil actions. Another verse from the Quran sheds light on the importance of Hi-

jab: “And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves like that of the times of ignorance, and perform As-Salat (Prayers), and give Zakat and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah wishes only to remove Ar-Rijs (evil deeds and sins) from you, O members of the family (of the Prophet P.B.U.H), and to purify you with a thorough purification” [al-Ahzab: 33] 3. Hijab is honorable: A Muslim women’s voice is also a part of her Hijab. She should speak in a honorable manner to become an honorable woman as indicated by this verse: “Be not soft in speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease (of hypocrisy, or evil desire) should be moved with desire, but speak in an honorable manner” [al-Ahzab: 32] 4. Hijab is righteousness: “O Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover yourselves (screen your private parts) and as an adornment; and the raiment of righteousness, that is better” [Al-Araf: 26] This verse of the Quran indicates that Hijab for a Muslim woman is to safeguard her body as a manifestation of the order of Allah; rather than showing off her body. It is an act of righteousness (Taqwah) for her.

5. Hijab is for successful women and believing women: “And tell the believing women to lower their

about subway safety. Naima’s death, however, was overshadowed by a crude obsession over whether it was an ordinary scarf or her hijab that had caught in the escalator treads. It seems there was less sympathy to spare if her hijab was to blame.

The values of state secularism, religious neutrality, and equality between men and women have been forcefully extolled in the charter debate, but it is clear that the virtues of common decency and respectful discussion have fallen to the wayside. Quebec is seized with xenophobia.

General consultations on the proposed ban that began in January have become an opportunity to purge one’s prejudices, with once-closeted discrimination toward religious minorities now everyday fare. Last month, the Quebec National Assembly heard testimony from the Pinault-Caron family who, discussing their travel in Morocco, described how frightened they were to see Muslims praying on all fours on carpets. People like this should not be wel-

come in Quebec, they argued. Line Chaloux, director of an immigrant’s centre, testified that Mormons should be expelled from Quebec if found proselytizing.

One would expect such bigoted testimony to be stopped in its tracks. Instead, elected representatives encourage this commentary, nodding along and asking follow-up questions to fan the flames. Minister of Democratic Institutions Bernard Drainville, who is charged with overseeing the hearings, has even banned the word racist, saying he will not accept any charges of racism during the proceedings. The government has decided to wilfully ignore the manifest xenophobia promulgated by some parties.

But while the sort of outrageous testimony that has dominated the headlines has been by no means rare, it is not representative of the wider range of Quebec public opinion. Professors, universities and civil society organizations have provided strong testimony against the charter so far, with major unions and medi-

Virtues of Hijab or Veil

By Asma Arshad The word Hijab is taken from the Arabic word “Hajaba” which means to hide or to conceal.

In the present society, wearing Hijab refers to the covering of Muslim women or the Muslim women dress. Today we see many nonMuslim and Muslim women asking about “Why do Muslim Women wear Hijab?” the answer to this is that Muslim women are ordered by Allah to cover their head and wear Hijab. Covering the beauty for a woman is for her honor and protection rather than suppression. Importance of Hijab and virtues of Hijab can be judged by Quranic verses. Hijab or the covering of Muslim Women is mentioned in Quran clearly.

Verses of Holy Quran on Hijab: Here are a few verses on what Allah says in the Quran about Hijab 1. Hijab is for Modest and respectable women: “O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed.

And Allah is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” [al-Ahzab: 59] This verse clearly indicates that Allah has made

Quebec’s Xenophobic Moment

By Humera Jabir The death of a Montreal woman last Thursday after her clothing became entangled in a subway escalator should have been a moment of sombre reflection on the fragility of human life. Instead, sensationalist francophone media coverage and the comments it unleashed online turned this tragic death into one of the darkest moments of racism and xenophobia in Quebec’s charter of values saga.

Naima Rharouity, wife and mother of two, was wearing a hijab on the day of the incident. The Journal de Montréal, among others, capitalizing on heightened sensitivities towards the garb in the current charter debate reported with no verification that Naima had been strangled by her hijab. The Journal maintained the report even after police stated the cause of death was unknown. But wearing the hijab was all it took for Naima’s death to become fair game for online commentators who, fuelled by irresponsible media coverage, hurled statements such as “This is what you get for deciding to keep it on,” “Where was Allah?” and “One less terrorist in Montreal.”

How did this woman’s sad death become the target of so much hatred? The seemingly never-ending charter of values debate has ramped up xenophobia against Quebec’s religious minorities who would be banned from wearing religious symbols in the public service if the legislation passes. But one could never have imagined the debate would sink so low. If it was another woman commentators might have expressed regard for her family and concerns

In 2005, a man was killed when the hood of his sweatshirt slipped into a gap in a subway escalator’s machinery and the moving stairs squeezed it around his neck. gaze and protect their private parts and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent and to draw their veils all over (i.e. their bodies) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband’s fathers, or their sons, or their husband’s sons, or their brothers or their brother’s sons, or their sister’s sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or old male servants who lack vigor, or small children who have no sense of feminine sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And all of you beg Allah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful” [An-Nur: 31] Hijab is not meant for restriction rather it is a means in which Muslim society may function in an appropriate manner. Islamic regulations are unique to the highest standards of the Muslim identity of chastity, righteousness, and moral uprightness. Islam protects and safeguards the individuals and the society from awkward situations. The Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) said: “Verily for every religion there is a characteristic, and the characteristic of Islam is Haya`a (modesty, shyness, bashfulness)” [Ibn Majah] Source: http://www.alquranclasses.com cal associations scheduled to speak against the ban this month.

Last Thursday, the Quebec Employers Council, representing 75,000 employers in the province, delivered a significant blow to the proposed charter testifying that it would undermine Quebec’s economy, making it less attractive to investment and workers. The Quebec Bar Association, whose written submission rebuked the ban as unconstitutional, is scheduled to speak along with other public opinion heavyweights. Drainville’s response to Quebec’s leading business, legal, medical and education bodies speaking against the charter, however, is to dismiss them as elitist and intellectual fear-mongers, pitting them against the average Quebecer whose opinions, he says, are of greater concern.

The Quebec government is legislating based on perceptions and anecdotes that peddle the politics of fear, not facts. And by absolving itself of the responsibility to ensure the charter is debated with a modicum of tolerance, the government has opened the floodgates to the kind of vitriolic commentary that followed Naima’s death.

Like the faceless woman in a hijab featured in the charter-promoting government ads plastered across Montreal’s subway stations, in the moments following her death, Naima was stripped of her humanity and reduced to nothing more than the cloth over her hair. She was a victim not only of a tragic accident, but also, posthumously, of Quebec’s deteriorating social climate. As long as the public spectacle of minority-bashing continues unabated, she will not be the last.

Humera Jabir is a law student at McGill University in Montreal.

11

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

P O L I T I C S

Drawing parallels between Arab and European Revolutions

BY: GWYNNE DYER It has taken a little longer than it did after the 1848 revolutions in Europe, but on the third anniversary of the Egyptian revolution we can definitely say that the “Arab Spring” is finished. The popular, mostly non-violent revolutions that tried to overthrow the singleparty dictatorships of the Arab world had their moments of glory.

People in the Middle East hate having their triumphs and tragedies treated as a secondhand version of European history, but the parallels with Europe in 1848 are hard to resist. The Arab tyrants had been in power for just as long, the revolutions were fueled by the same mixture of democratic idealism and frustrated nationalism, and once again the trigger for the revolutions (if you had to highlight just one factor) was soaring food prices.

In many places the Arab revolutionaries had startlingly quick successes at first — Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen — just like the French, German, and Italian revolutionaries did in Europe’s “Springtime of the Peoples.” For a time it looked like everything would change.

Then came the counter-revolutions and it all fell apart, leaving only a few countries permanently changed for the better — like Denmark then, or Tunisia in today’s Arab world.

The disheartening parallels are particularly strong between Egypt, by far the biggest country in the Arab world, and France, which was Europe’s most important and populous country in 1848. In both cases, the revolu-

tions at first brought free media, civil rights and free elections, but also a great deal of social turmoil and disorientation.

In both France and Egypt the newly enfranchised masses then elected presidents whose background alarmed much of the population: A nephew of Napoleon in one case, a leader of the Muslim Brotherhood in the other. And here the stories diverge for a time — but the ending, does not.

After the defeat of the 1848 revolutions, there were no further democratic revolutions in

Letters & Opinions Continued from pg 6

Ending Partisanship and Patronage in the Senate

solving more important problems.

I am calling on the Prime Minister to do the right thing and match this action. As the majority party in the Senate, he could achieve immediate and comprehensive change right away if he decided to.

By: Justin Trudeau Taken together, these steps represent the Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada most significant and concrete actions to reCanadians want their leaders to come forform the Senate in its history. These proposward with practical solutions to our probals are the next step to create real, positive lems, and they have been clear that the Senchange, but they will not be our last. ate has become one of those problems. It is broken and needs to be fixed.

Through extreme patronage and partisanship, the Senate has become an institution that poorly serves the interests of Canadians. By: Zaheer Ali Manki Canadians are especially disenchanted with Vancouver the antiquated convention that sees Senators After years of war and chaos in Syria, an internaappointed by one person: the Prime Minister. tional peace conference was recently convened in The Senate is a public institution. It should the Swiss city of Montreaux. The political observnot continue to be run like the Prime Minis- ers had predicted that the failure and the inconcluter’s private club. siveness of this meeting without Iran’s seat at the The Liberal Party has taken immediate ac- table was a foregone conclusion. The Iranian tion to address these challenges. From now President Hassan Rouhani had criticized the UN on, our national caucus will only include over its decision to rescind an invitation to Iran to elected Members of Parliament, not Sena- participate in Geneva II talks on the Syria crisis. tors. All of our Senators are now completely He said that the move was a detriment to the independent of the Liberal Party of Canada world body. It proved that the world body was Caucus.

NOT independent in its workings. On January 19, Furthermore, if I earn the privilege of serving UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said that Canadians as their Prime Minister, I will put Tehran had been invited to the Geneva II conferin place an open, transparent and public pro- ence but later retracted the invitation under prescess for appointing and confirming Senators. sure from the United States, Saudi Arabia and the This process will be developed with experts foreign backed Syrian opposition. and will be modelled after other non-partisan Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javed Zarif appointment processes, like Supreme Court said that UN Chief’s move was ‘ regrettable ‘, Justices and Order of Canada recipients. stressing that Ban Ki-moon rescinded Iran’s inviThese changes take effect right away, with- tations a result of the pressure exerted on him. out opening up the Constitution. They avoid President Rouhani has also raised doubts about a long, rancorous and likely pointless consti- the success of this meeting in restoring stability to tutional debate that would distract us from Syria given the presence of certain countries that

Syria Conference without Iran!

Europe for twenty years. If that timetable were also to apply to the Arab world, then the next round of democratic revolutions would only be due around 2035. But it probably doesn’t apply.

There is one key difference between the European revolutions of 1848 and the Arab revolutions of 2011. The 1848 revolutions were violent explosions of popular anger that succeeded in hours or days, while those of 2010-11 were largely non-violent, more calculated struggles that took much longer to

back terrorism in the conference. Some Persian Gulf States are spending multimillion petrodollars in the hope of installing a desired government in Damascus even at the price of deaths of hundreds and thousands of civilians. These states who are aligned with the West are investing millions of dollars in supporting the anti Regime foreign terrorists in Syria.

Supporters of stability in Syria, like Iran and Russia, believe that a solution to the Syrian crisis is not summarizes in war, terror and pressure. They both believe that a peaceful and political solution must be sought in view of political transition in the country.

Despite unilateral propaganda campaign against the Islamic Republic of Iran, policy makers and decision makers in Tehran do not hold a rigid view of Syria. Iran favours a government born out of the will of the Syrian people. They may decide to keep Assad or choose a successor.

As it stands today, UN and its General Body have become tools of convenience and a puppet of the West. It must be restructured where all countries have the same rights and status with no Veto power for the selected few.

Canada’s Visa System is Drowning in Red Tape By:John McCallum, P.C., M.P. Anyone who has experience with Canada’s visa system knows how slow and bureaucratic the process can be. This is especially punishing for those looking to have close family members visit for important life events and for our tourism industry.

Other countries around the world are seizing on the flow of tourists from countries like India and China, streamlining their visa systems to be more competitive for tourism dollars. Canada, on the other hand, is dragging its feet and forcing applicants to jump through hoops in order to travel here to visit their families or tour our beautiful country.

The numbers don’t lie. Between 2000 and 2012

win. Non-violent revolutions give millions of people time to think about why they are taking these risks and what they hope to get out of it. They may still lose focus, take wrong turns, and even throw all their gains away.

Mistakes are human, and so is failure. But once people have participated in a non-violent revolution they are permanently politicized, and in the long run they are quite likely to remember what they came for.

The most promising candidate to succeed Gene Sharp as the world authority on nonviolent revolutions is Erica Chernoweth, a young American academic who co-wrote the study “Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Non-Violent Conflict” with diplomat Maria Stephan. A lot of their book is about why non-violent revolution succeeds or fails, but most interesting of all are their statistics about how often it succeeds.

Their headline statistic is that violent revolutionary struggles succeed in overthrowing an oppressive regime only 30 percent of the time, whereas non-violent campaigns succeed almost 60 percent of the time.

There have been only two relative successes among the Arab countries, Tunisia and Morocco (where the change came so quickly that hardly anybody noticed).

But the most relevant statistic from Chernoweth and Stephan’s work for the future of the Arab world is this: “Holding all other variables constant, the average country with a failed non-violent campaign has over a 35 percent chance of becoming a democracy five years after a conflict’s end.” The game isn’t over yet.

Source: Arab News

Canada experienced a drop of 18% in international arrivals, compared with growth in almost every other country. With the bulk of tourist growth coming from visa-requiring countries like China, India, Brazil and Mexico, visa headaches are costing the Canadian economy thousands of jobs every year.

The most frustrating part of this problem is the lack of clarity from the government on why applications are being rejected. My own constituency office faces this problem every day – virtually identical cases with different results. And the consequence is often heartbreaking when, for example, a grandparent from overseas is barred from attending a grandchild’s wedding in Canada.

It’s a question of attitude. Of course Canada has security concerns, but so do countries like the United States and Australia which have far more welcoming visa systems. Immigration policy needs a balance between vigilance and welcome.

In recent years, our policy has become all vigilance and no welcome. This must change.

ISCC Fully Supports NCCM’s Lawsuit By: Imam Syed Soharwardy ISCC, Calgary The Islamic Supreme Council of Canada (ISCC) fully supports the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) for suing the Prime Minister’s Office for bullying the Canadian Muslims.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government has helped in spreading the Islamophobia in Canada instead of reducing it. The current government has always used the diving tactics to harass its critics.

We believe that the action taken by the NCCM to stop racism and discrimination in Canada is the right action. We fully endorse and support NCCM on this issue. ISCC has always stood up for justice and equality among all Canadians.

ISCC supports all efforts that bring unity and understanding of each other.

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

A D V E R T I S E R

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

C R I M E

Fighting crime the right way, not Harper’s

Reading the first chapter of Irvin Waller’s new Smarter Crime Control (Lanham, Maryland, 2014), you will be immediately reminded of the tribulations of Ignaz Semmelweis. Semmelweis was a 19th Century Hungarian physician in Austria and Hungary who identified the cause of women dying in hospital of what was called childbed fever, death after childbirth.

It was a matter of infection caused by physicians who did not wash their hands, especially after doing autopsies. He instituted hand washing with a chorine solution, and as a result the death rates tumbled. Yet, he was eased out, hand washing ceased, and the mortality rate shot back up. Toward the end of his life, he took to writing bitter diatribes aimed at prominent physicians who rejected his approach.

Waller’s opening chapter appears to be written in total frustration, which could well be summed up thus: “I’ve told you.

Other experts have told you. There are more effective ways, less expensive ways to fight crime. For God’s sake, why can’t you just get on with it?” Of course, he did

not say this in just so many words.

Instead, Waller wrote his carefully documented work on crime control and prevention.

He and others told us all this before, but now he has put it all together in one neat package and tied a ribbon around it. His book and the references in the bibliography and notes are bound to be the go-to work on how to do it right for some time to come.

While the book is directed at the American experience, most of what he says applies in Canada as well, especially since the Harper government is moving full speed ahead in the American direction, more prisons and worse overcrowding in them, even while the United States is beginning to move away from that pattern.

Waller footnotes programs and reports, carefully describing the bases for recommendations and even noting when the evidence of effectiveness is not watertight.

He would like to see police moving away from reaction to 911 calls to careful emphasis on serving high crime areas of a city.

More is not necessarily better. Focusing police work is his ticket, following repeat offenders and focusing on repeat victims, as examples.

In talking about anti-gang undertakings, he notes that sometimes success is its own enemy. It’s a matter of—Well, that was great. We don’t need the social supports

that were essential for this success anymore. We won. And so after a while conditions deteriorate again. A smart approach maintains the programs that work and keeps the staff. In reality, the staff are seen as expendable. A precious resource is dissipated. Of course, the police remain.

He also has recommendations for courts, including establishment of specialized courts with appropriate resources available to them: mental health courts, drug courts, and domestic violence courts, for example.

Restorative justice approaches such as victim-offender reconciliation and Aboriginal sentencing circles are seen as less expensive and in many cases more effective than incarceration and more satisfying for victims. He wants decriminalization of marihuana and operation of safe-injection sites.

Such moves would cut down on excessive incarceration, and marihuana could become a source of tax revenue.

When it comes to prisons, he proposes that “nonviolent, non serious, and non-sexcrime offenders serve their sentence in the community,” with shorter sentences, supervised treatment, and enabling the payment of restitution to victims whenever possible.” Consequences for offenders need to be limited so that they can reintegrate into the community successfully, with appropriate support groups.

In areas with heavy concentrations of criminal behavior, Waller wants positive parenting programs, such as nurse visits to at-risk mothers and early childhood education.

But these may in fact not end up saving money, as these may become social utilities demanded for everyone in the community.

Instead of saving money in fighting crime

in the areas prescribed, they may simply make society as a whole better off. If visits to at-risk mothers are good, why not visiting nurses seeing all new mothers, and why not universal child care?

The book also looks at gun violence and traffic offenses. When it comes to repeat drinking offenders who have already lost their license, you wonder why he does not suggest seizure of the vehicle.

In order to prevent violence against women, he wants greater implementation of programs to change male attitudes toward women in high school and post-secondary institutions. He speaks of programs that have been tried in schools and that have been verified statistically in surveys as effective. There is, he urges, a need for more funding for women’s shelters and rape crisis centres.

But the small number of actual cases seen in many rape crisis centres does not justify the cost of staff 24/7, except perhaps in the largest cities.Their function instead should fall to women’s shelters or hospitals.

As for shelters, as with other female-oriented programs, pay rates are too low.

There has been a tendency, especially among women, to see the work as a cause and to see a demand for adequate pay as unworthy. The important work in women’s shelters needs to be adequately rewarded.

At times the approach of shelters as a “cause” leads to ideological and personality clashes that result in boards actually closing a shelter, a situation that is unconscionable. The board does not own the facility. It operates it in the interest of the community.

Courtesy: www.thecanadiancharger.com

CHILDREN TERRIFIED AFTER SURREY FAMILY TIED UP DURING VIOLENT HOME INVASION A Surrey woman said she has no idea why her family was the target of a terrifying home invasionstyle robbery on Wednesday.

“We’re shocked,” said Balvir Sandhar. “My kids were really scared. They didn’t go to school today. They’re afraid they will come back.”

On Wednesday evening, shortly before 5:30 p.m., two men came to the door of the house Balvir owns with her husband, Zorawer.

Balvir was out for a walk at the time, but her sister and niece were home with four children.

When Balvir’s niece answered the doorbell, the men knocked her down, punched her and threatened her with a knife. They told her that if she cried out, they would kill her and everyone else

in the home.

The men tied up the two adults and two of the children, and asked Balvir’s twin daughters to show them where to find money. They said they were friends of the girls’ father and threatened to kill them if they didn’t co-operate. Balvir said the men took money, jewelry, passports, social-insurance cards and other important documents and certificates.

As the men tried to leave, Balvir’s husband and nephew drove up and entered the home. Her nephew confronted the men and was hit in the face. He fell to the ground and was knocked out.

The suspects, two South Asian men wearing hoodies, fled in a dark-coloured Honda Civic.

Police and B.C. Ambulance Ser-

vice arrived shortly thereafter and Balvir’s nephew was taken to hospital, where he remained Thursday with a head injury.

“We’re not sure if he’s OK or not.

He doesn’t remember anything,” Balvir said.

Balvir described her family as normal and hard working, and has no idea who the men were.

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She pleaded for the return of their passports and other important documents.

“If they read the newspaper, please give us our documents,” said Balvir.

Surrey RCMP believe the robbery was targeted. A police spokesman was unable to say whether the homeowners had previous inter-

actions with police or if police have been to the home before.

Anyone with information, or who may have seen anything suspicious in the neighbourhood, is asked to call the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or visit solvecrime.ca.

Earlier Wednesday, in an unrelated incident, multiple shots were fired near 127th Street and 93rd Avenue in Surrey.

Police were called to the area around 3 p.m. after witnesses reported that gunfire was exchanged between two vehicles — a beige Jeep and a white crossover-type vehicle. There have been no reported injuries.

Source: Vancouver Desi

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

N A T U R E

A Topic Evolution Cannot Explain: Colours In Nature Mr. Adnan Oktar( Haroon Yahya) When we look at nature, we see that every plant and every animal have their own particular colours and patterns exclusive to their kind. Furthermore, each of these colours and patterns have different meanings for living things: an invitation to mate, expression of aggression, a warning against danger and many notions like these acquire a meaning among animals from the perception of colours and patterns.

The theory of evolution, which claims that everything has come into being by random coincidence, has reached a total impasse because of the artistry, diversity of colours and harmony exhibited in nature. Charles Darwin, the founder of the theory in the form in which we have it today, also had to confess the situation he faced because of the design evident in living beings. Darwin stated that he could not understand why the colours of living creatures have particular meanings: My difficulty is, why are caterpillars sometimes so beautifully and artistically coloured? Seeing that many are coloured to escape danger, I can hardly attribute their bright colour in other cases to mere physical conditions.1 Certainly, it is impossible for colours and order in nature to have come into being by natural selection.

Let us verify with an example that it is impossible for the colours of living beings and systems of transformation of colour to come about by natural selection. Let us take chameleons for an example. Chameleons are animals capable of adapting to the colours present in the environment and changing their colours according to the surroundings. While resting on a green leaf,

they assume a green colour, while moving onto a brown branch, their skin changes to brown in a very short time. Let us think together over how this process of colourchange takes place.

A living creature changes its colour as a consequence of highly complex processes taking place in its body. It is impossible for a man to change either his own colour or another living being’s colour, because the human body is not equipped with the proper systems for such an operation. Nor is it possible for a human to develop such a system on his own because it is not like a piece of equipment to be developed and installed. In short, for a living creature to be able to change its colour, it is imperative for this creature to come into being with such a colour change mechanism.

Let us think about the first chameleon on the earth. What would happen if this creature did not have the ability to change colour? First, the chameleon would be easy prey since it could not hide. Besides, since

it would be easily recognised, hunting would be very difficult for it. This would finally cause a chameleon devoid of any other defence mechanism to die or starve and, after a while, to become extinct. Yet, the existence of chameleons in the world today evidently proves that such an event has never taken place. So, chameleons possessed this perfect system from the first moment they appeared on earth.

Evolutionists claim that chameleons have developed this system over time. This would make some questions occur to our minds: why have chameleons chosen to develop such a complex system such as changing colour instead of an easier defence mechanism? Why has it chosen changing colour while there are so many kinds of defence mechanisms? How has such a mechanism, providing for all the chemical processes necessary for colour change, been formed in the chameleon? Is it possible for a reptile to think of such a mechanism and then develop the necessary systems in its body? More, is it possible for a reptile to encode the information necessary for colour change in the DNA present in its cells?

Unquestionably, this is impossible. The conclusion to be drawn from the answers given to such questions as above will be one and the same: it is impossible for a living creature to develop such a complex system that allows it to change its own colour.

Not only systems of colour change, but also the diversities of colour and pattern in living beings deserve focus. It is impossible for the bright colours in parrots, the diverse colours in fish, the symmetry in the wings of butterflies, the fascinating patterns in flowers and the colours of other living

things to have been formed on their own.

Such perfect patterns, colours and figures, which serve very important purposes in the lives of living things, are concrete evidence of creation. It is obvious that there is a superior design in the formation of the colours around us.

Let us make it clear with an example: let us suppose that we are designing a product consisting of squares. Even to draw one of them, we need to make a small calculation and make sure that all four sides are linear and equal and the square has 90-degree angles at the corners. We can draw the square only after making some calculations and adjustments. As seen, even drawing a single square requires some knowledge and skill.

Let us apply the same reasoning to living creatures around us and ponder on them.

There is perfect harmony, order and plan in living beings. A person who appreciates the necessity of knowledge and skill in drawing a simple square, will understand right away that origination of the order, harmony, colours and design in the universe is also a product of infinite knowledge and skill.

Therefore there is no reasonable or scientific ground for claiming that a system such as the universe has come into existence by chance. Allah, the Most Powerful, has created the entire universe. Allah is the One Who fashions everything He creates most beautifully.

Source: http://harunyahya.com/ They said ‘Glory be to You!We have no knowledge except what You have taught us. You are the All-Knowing, the AllWise.’(Surat al-Baqara: 32)

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16

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

Y O U T H

Good Listening Skills By: Shabnam Khan – Family Counsellor Contact at: shabnam@skcounselling.ca

The way to become a better listener is to practice “active listening.”

This is where you make a conscious effort to hear not only the words that another person is saying but, more importantly, try to understand the complete message being sent.

In order to do this you must pay attention to the other person very carefully. You cannot allow yourself to become distracted by whatever else may be going on around you, or by forming counter arguments that you’ll make when the other person stops speaking.

Nor can you allow yourself to get bored, and lose focus on what the other person is saying. All of these contribute to a lack of listening and understanding. Tip: If you’re finding it particularly difficult to concentrate on what someone is saying, try repeating their words mentally as they say them – this will reinforce their message and help you stay focused. To enhance your listening skills, you need to let the other person know that you are listening to what he or she is saying. To understand the importance

of this, ask yourself if you’ve ever been engaged in a conversation when you wondered if the other person was listening to what you were saying. You wonder if your message is getting across, or if it’s even worthwhile continuing to speak. It feels like talking to a brick wall and it’s something you want to avoid. Acknowledgement can be something as simple as a nod of the head or a simple

“uh huh.” You aren’t necessarily agreeing with the person, you are simply indicating that you are listening. Using body language and other signs to acknowledge you are listening also reminds you to pay attention and not let your mind wander. You should also try to respond to the speaker in a way that will both encourage him or her to continue speaking, so that you can get the information if you need. While nodding and “uh huh” says you’re interested, an occasional question or comment to recap what has been said communicates that you understand the message as well!!

Surrey Adding Youth Representatives to City Committees

January 28, As part of its commitment to increasing youth engagement and input into municipal decisions, the City of Surrey is recruiting youth representatives for each of eight (8) of its City-led committees. This is part of a one-year pilot project arising out of a recommendation from Surrey’s Child & Youth Friendly Strategy.

“Our world is constantly changing, and youth bring perspective and experiences that are unique to their demographic,” says City of Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts. “With one-third of our residents under the age of 19, adding the voice of youth to municipal governance helps to ensure that decisions made are representative of our community.”

Research has shown there are distinct benefits to including a youth voice in munici-

pal governance. Young people offer intelligence, creative thinking, and valuable perspectives on the world. By treating youth as equal partners in the governance process, a stronger relationship is built between young people and their city; this in turn creates a positive cycle for further effec-tive youth engagement.

The Committees seeking youth representatives are: •Agriculture and Food Security Advisory •Cultural Development Advisory •Diversity Advisory •Environmental Sustainability Advisory •Public Art Advisory •Parks, Recreation & Sport Tourism •Social Planning Advisory •Transportation & Infrastructure Applicants must be aged 18-25 years of age and residents of Surrey. Interested applicants are asked to submit written expression of interest to clerks@surrey. ca by 4PM, February 14, 2014.

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17 I M M I G R A T I O N Travellers to benefit from Canada’s shift to multiple-entry visas Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

Multiple-entry visas make it easier for travellers to visit Canada

Visitors to Canada will automatically be considered for a multipleentry visa, starting on February 6, 2014. Multiple-entry visas allow qualified visitors to come and go from Canada for six months at a time for up to 10 years without having to reapply each time.

The fee for the temporary resident visa (TRV) program will now be reduced from $150 to $100 for the processing of either a single- or

multiple-entry visa.

By harmonizing the single- and multiple-entry visa fees, the visa application process will become simpler for applicants and promote tourism and trade by increasing the number of eligible travellers who are able to make multiple visits to Canada.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada will increase other fees (link to backgrounder) in the temporary res-

ident program, effective February 6, 2014. These changes will reduce the burden on Canadian taxpayers and ensure that fees closely reflect the real cost of processing applications.

These increases include (all figures in CAD $): • $25 for study permits and renewals; • $5 increase for work permits and renewals; • $25 increase for extensions to re-

main in Canada as a visitor; • $100 as the maximum fee for a family to apply for TRVs; and • $15 as the maximum work permit fee for a group of performing artists and their staff.

Quick facts • Every year more than 35 million people visit Canada.

• In 2012, Canada issued a record number of visitor visas with almost one million visas approved, rep-

New citizens in January 2014 more than double the number from one year ago

Canada welcomed more than 16,000 new citizens in January – twice as many as in January 2013, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced today.

Investments announced in Economic Action Plan 2013 have helped make the system more efficient and strengthened the integrity

of Canada’s citizenship program.

The immense popularity of Canadian citizenship, though, has hampered efforts to tackle long processing times.

The government will take additional steps in the coming days to reduce backlogs while further strengthening the value of Canadian citizenship. As announced in

the October 2013 Speech from the Throne, these measures – taken together – will form the first comprehensive reforms to the Citizenship Act in more than a generation.

Quick facts •In January 2013, 8,250 people obtained Canadian citizenship. In January 2014, more than 16,000 people

became citizens at 244 citizenship ceremonies held across the country.

•The citizenship ceremony is the last step before becoming a Canadian citizens and taking on the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship.

•The new Canadians welcomed into the Canadian family in Janu-

resenting an increase of almost 40 percent since 2004.

• The multiple-entry visa is particularly popular with visitors from China, India and Mexico who hold 10-year passports and have been eligible to apply for a 10-year visa.

• Similarly, visitors from the Philippines and Brazil, who hold fiveyear passports, have been issued multiple-entry visas for up to five years. ary 2014 came from 190 different countries.

•In 2013, 10,745 people were granted citizenship, on average, each month.

•Since 2006, Canada has welcomed the highest sustained levels of immigration in Canadian history – an average of 257,000 newcomers each year. Accordingly, the demand for citizenship has increased by 30%.

•Census data show 86% of eligible permanent residents become Canadian citizens.

Conservatives won’t reunite any more families untill 2015 Minister Alexander announces the application process is closed until 2015 Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced that 34 days into 2014, the Conservative government won’t be reuniting any more families until next year.

“A month into the new year, and the Conservative government has already closed its door on families,” said NDP Employment and Social Development critic, Jinny Sims (Newton-North Delta).

“While Minister Alexander continues to boast that his approach is clearing the backlog, people living

in Surrey and Delta are still waiting to hear about applications submitted in 2007.”

In addition to drastically reducing the number of applications it accepts each year, the Conservative government also made significant sponsorship changes to the country’s family reunification program. Sponsors are now required to demonstrate income levels that are 30 per cent higher than sponsors in years past, and a promise to look after the financial needs of their loved ones for 20 years, instead of the previous 10-year commitment.

Canada remains a competitive option for bright and

talented prospective immigrants, in part because it offers family reunification; but, the low number of applications processed annually could hinder Canada’s appeal.

“First they freeze the program altogether; now it’s supposedly open, but to a miniscule number of applicants, and only the most economically advantaged,” said Sims. “This personally affects my constituents by the thousands. I, along with my New Democrat colleagues, am fighting hard to make family reunification a top priority for immigration.”

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18 L O C A L Maulana Shah M. Anas Noorani to Visit Surrey on Feb 8 Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

Qaid-e-Ahl Sunnat His Eminence Maulana Shah Ahmad Noorani Siddiqui AlQadiri (RA) Rahmatullah alaih (1926-2003). He started World Islamic Mission (WIM) an international Muslim organisation of Sufi-inspired. The World Islamic Mission has grown to serve Muslims across several countries. The headquarters of World Islamic Mission is in Manchester, England, UK, and it is active in at least 24 countries around the world.

Following the demise of his Eminent father Maulana Shah Ahmad

Noorani (RA), Hazrat Maulana Shah Mohammad Anas Noorani Siddiqui was unanimously selected by all parties concerned ,to be the spiritual successor of his father. He was not merely selected, but after his nomination he emerged as any true leader and proved to be the rightful successor of the Mujaddid of the century.

Maulana Anas was born on 7th August 1966 in Madina E Munawwara , Saudi Arabia. The place where he was actually born has now been included in Masjid E Nabawi. Maulana Anas Noorani had his secondary education in Karachi, and then followed Islamic Studies in Tafsir Quran (Quranic Sciences), Hadith ,Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) at Nadratul Uloom of Karachi. He continued his studies until he obtained his Bachelor and Masters in Islamic Studies. He did not stop there, but pursued further studies in Arabic at Tripoli University, Libya and carried Research Stud-

THE

ies in Tafsir and Fiqh at Saddam University , Baghdad , one of the most prestigious universities in Iraq . Maulana Anas was very close to his paternal grandmother, who had great for him and he spent much time in her company.

His spiritual training took place under the supervision of his grandmother who was a great Waliullah. She imparted many spiritual secrets to his grandson, whom she knew would be called upon to succeed his father. Under her guidance and supervision, he performed many spiritual exercises which are necessary in the preparatory work of any Muballigh.

Maulana Anas also accompanied his Father Maulana Shah Ahmad Noorani Siddiqui (RA) in many important meetings and conferences. He was groomed to become a great leader and his father left no stone unturned to give him the required exposure and training needed to perform his mission later in life. He is an Aashiq E

Rassool (SAW), a great lover of the Beloved prophet Hazrat Maulana.

Treading the path of his Father, the Imaam Noorani University was opened in Karachi. He became the Chief Patron of World Islamic Mission, with branches worldwide, from Europe to America, Africa, Asia and Australia. He is also the elected President of Jamiat Ul Ulama of Pakistan, Chief Patron of Halqae Qadria Ishaat E Islam. So many educa-

MIR A LE

tional and Islamic institutions run under his supervision, not to forget the Aleemiah Dar Ul Uloom of India, with more than 1500 students and producing Hafiz E Quran and high calibre Islamic Scholars, who are preaching Islam as a religion of peace worldwide. He is continuously founding Masajid around the world and specially, in Europe , America and other parts of the world.

This is an introductory summary of such an illustrious personality .

Allhumdulilla The Miracle Media Group Inc is completing its 13th year of publication.

Feberuary 21st edition will be a Special Miracle edition.

We would love to publish your opinions and suggestions in this Special Miracle edition. Please send us your letters, opinions or suggestions with your pictures (optional)

February 12, 2014 at miraclenews@telus.net & rafiq05@gmail.com

Khatam Gyarween(11th) Shareef Program at Masjid Anwar-e-Madina, Surrey 13560-105A Ave., Surrey Saturday February 08, 2014 At 5:30pm Special Guest Speaker from Pakistan:

Allama Maulana Hafiz Anas Noorani Siddiqui ALL ARE WELCOME

FULL PROVISIONS FOR SISTERS Refreshments & Dinner will be served For More Information: Madina Masjid 604-961-0896, Sayed Siraju Dean 604-580-0570 Imroz Dean Saify 604-727-1438, Abdul Yaqub 604-588-8779

19

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

F O O D

Smelling Coffee!

Starting your morning with a cup of Java has become an international tradition. The freshly brewed coffee aroma as one wakes up can energize the brain’s endorphins causing the feeling of energy. For many a morning ritual starts the day. My 70-year-old neighbor considers her coffee a “sip of life.”

Coffee has a long history and tradition from the origins of the coffee to the manufacturing and trading worldwide. Some traced the origins of the coffee bean from the African country of Ethiopia. An Ethiopian legend called “Kaldi” points to examples of the effects of coffee bean on goats. The legend claims that farm goats that ingested the beans seemed to have a heightened sense of energy causing them not to sleep as usual.

Evidence points to the origins of coffee bean cultivation began in the region we now consider the Middle East in the 15th century.

Some historians point to the cultivation and trading of coffee began in the Arab world particularly Persia, Egypt, Syria and Turkey.

Around the 16th century, trading expanded to areas like New Amsterdam. As coffee began to expand its popularity around the world so did the interest to study the effects on the human body.

Today several longitudinal studies contradict each other on the effects of coffee, specifically the caffeine, on the human brain. Most studies identify the positive and negative effects on the consumption of coffee. Some research focus on the amount of coffee consumed and the time of day consumed. Latest studies point to the positive effects of having two cups of coffee a day to help lower cholesterol.

This is in direct contradiction to past studies that say any caffeine can alter the brain function to a more negative effect. Historical studies point to caffeine as a quick energizer that is not necessary a healthy effect.

The study of how coffee affects humans have found various outcomes from weight loss, increased intelligence, improved memory and energy to an addictive drug, increased cholesterol, and increased heart disease. None of the studies has definitely concluded a general guide for all humans worldwide. Many researchers point to different body types, different geographical regions, and their overall diet as an indicator that needs to be considered when studying the effects of coffee.

Some general guidelines that can be considered for some people include the list below (be advised to consult with your doctor).

Effects of moderate caffeine consumption may include but not limited to: • Increased attention • Better memory • Decreased risk of heart disease • Increased physical performance • Lower the risk of Alzheimer and Parkinson • Lower the risk of type II diabetes • Limited amounts antioxidants Other research guidelines include: 1. Limit coffee consumption: Avoid excessive intake of coffee as it increases stress levels, causes insomnia, and prevents weight-loss.

2. Decrease sugar and cream in coffee to avoid extra calories. Substitution with artificial sweetener and other forms of milk is advised.

3. Creative coffee beverages, like Frappuccino’s and mochas, can be a deceptive drink as it usually has more calories than a full meal.

4. Drinking coffee after dinner each night may help stop the late night sugar cravings.

5. Some recommend drinking a cup of water before coffee. The theory is coffee can act as a diuretic.

After learning how coffee can affect your metabolism and your daily life consider adjusting your consumption to better improve your health. In addition, for the adventurous coffee consumers try Green Coffee. A clear whitehot liquid claims to help weight loss.

In his 2012 show, Dr. Mehmet Oz said, “Mag-

ic is makebelieve but this little bean has scientists saying they’ve f o u n d weight loss cure for everybody.”

The green coffee bean, when turned into supplement, can burn fat fast.

You have to choose wisely if you are concerned about weight because some coffee drinks are more like deserts high in calories.

A cup of brewed coffee has only two calories, but if you dress up your coffee gorgeously then you land up with extra calories, like heavy whip cream will have 52 calories, table sugar 49, fat free milk 5 calories. It is important to watch the intake when it comes to fat burning facts, see the product label before ordering a brewed coffee.

Despite all the controversy over the effects of coffee, many enjoy a morning revelation with coffee because of its aromatic smell, bold flavor, and a kick-start to the brain.

Source: Arab news

Our Stop at Red Rooster, Fried broasted chicken in Richmond The team of the Miracle newspaper often visits different community businesses from time to time and questions the owners about the information that may have the potential of some usefulness for the readers of this community paper. This time, the team paid a visit to the Red Rooster at No 5 road x Cambie St. in Richmond. We got the a chance to chat with a young man who is owner of this fast food business.

The Miracle(TM): Assalamu-elik-kum! As you are well aware, I am Mohammad Pirzada from the Miracle Newspaper. I have been frequently visiting your fast food restaurant, with my family members to enjoy the taste of your delicious fast food. However, today I have come to find out something about this fried broasted chicken and the secret of its overall success and popularity in this Richmond area.

When I interview many owners, they tell me “I was very fond of eating and then started cooking and my friends tasted my cooked dishes, they appreciated it. Then I became an restaurant Chef and owner. How did you enter in this business, is it the same story with you ya Sheikh?

Mr. Sheikh: Actually, after completing my school here and working in service industry for quite a long-time, I wanted to start my own business and started looking for an opportunity. Restaurant business was one of the ideas because I had worked in this industry while studying. Another reason to come into this business was my background; I was born in Lahore, the city which is known for food and people who probably live to eat. So Variety of food options & taste wasn’t a new thing for me.

TM: At the same spot and other locations in Richmond, many Muslim food businesses opened and closed. No doubt many mixed Muslim communities are residing here and they have their different taste in food. Why people go to Surrey for delicious food. Why there are not many established halal resturants in Richmond?

Mr. Sheikh: I think you already have answered it in your question. Richmond has a decent Muslim community but all from different countries/backgrounds. Since population from a specific background/country is not that strong in numbers, it is really difficult for a business to successfully run on its

own community members.

In other words there are a lot of Muslims in Richmond and they all eat Halal Food but not necessarily they have same kind of taste. For example; people from Middle East have different taste than from India/Pakistan or Muslims from African region has different food taste than others.

TM: Now tell me what are your common specialty items and who are the common customers?

Mr. Sheikh: Fast food is for everyone, AlHamdullilah I have strong support from Muslim Community in Richmond who come here for Halal Food but beside that, I have many customers who are non Muslims and they come to Red Rooster for the different taste.

TM: Your fried chicken, Pizza, burgers are no doubt tasty and delicious, how do you prepare these recipes?

Mr. Sheikh: A good friend of mine who is running a fast food joint in Lahore has helped me preparing the menu. Plus I have worked in a lot of fast food places like Pizza Hut, Subway etc).

TM: Why did you feel that besides your regular items, you can introduce Chicken biryani and other dishes at this spot?

Mr. Sheikh: It’s true that my target was everyone living in Richmond but it is also a fact that there are a lot of Muslims, specially from

Pakistan, India, Fiji, and Bangladesh living here who want to enjoy the food from their countries. So I started bryani few months ago & Alhamdullilah people liked it a lot.

TM: What do you have to say with regard to the response from the local Muslim Community?

Mr. Sheikh: Response from Muslim Community is very strong & positive and as much as I thank, is not enough. Specially young generation, they are playing a role of networking for my business, telling their friends, class-fellows, co-workers, bringing them here to try Halal Food.

TM: Any message for the Miracle readers?

Mr. Sheikh: Let’s build our Muslim Community in BC and to do this we need to have unity and positive approach. Please leave our differences behind and work together to have a strong community and positive image of WIslam.

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20

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

LIFESTYLE

7 secrets to a long-lasting marriage

By:Purvaja Sawant Treat your in-laws with respect, give your spouse breathing space and keep the spark alive to build a rock-solid relationship Nowadays, the term ‘long-lasting marriage’ is an oxymoron. With divorce rates rising, separation has become the easiest solution to tackle any rocky relationship! No wonder, fewer couples are giving their marriage a deserving second chance.

Like any other relationship, even a marriage needs help, every now and then, especially when things get difficult. True, it may be challenging and require more effort on your part but the rewards are worth the extra work. So instead of ignoring and brushing your marital woes under the carpet, make your marriage a happy and long-lasting affair.

pecially for your spouse. Use this precious time to sit and talk about things — not just about work and family but even anything random.

The Big C - Communication

It’s okay to compromise

If communication is missing in your marriage, before you even realise it, it will slowly destroy your relationship. Everyone talks about honesty in a marriage but that’s only possible if communication lines are open.

So even if you’re busy with your work, children, gym, household chores or social activities, just set aside 15 minutes in the day, es-

Dignity and respect “Love is overrated — it’s respecting your spouse and giving him dignity that will strengthen your bond and help your relationship in the long run,� says Seema Hingorrany, clinical psychologist. You may be married to him and he may be an integral part of your life, but that doesn’t mean you own him.

It’s important you don’t dominate or boss him around, alone or in front of family and friends. Learn to respect his feelings and decisions, even if you don’t agree.

Maybe it’s the way we’ve been conditioned, but a lot of people feel that compromise is a sign of weakness and so, are often unwilling to compromise. But considering the vast number of decisions every couple has to make during the course of their lives, you’ll often come across situations, where you will

loaning money to a friend or family member, it’s best to keep your husband in the loop. You don’t want this indiscretion to upset him, make him lose his trust on you or unnecessarily create a rift in the relationship.

Bonding with your in-laws Well, this one is easier said than done, particularly if you aren’t too fond of your spouse’s extended family or vice versa! Still, what matters is that you at least make an attempt to be cordial to them, or engage in polite conversation, whenever you meet. You could also initiate get-togethers or dinners once in a while. After all, if there’s a strain in your relationship with your bethave to find middle ground. That doesn’t ter half, your in-laws could be a mean you always have to give up on what great source of support for both of you. you believe or think is right. Make it more Don’t let the romance die about reaching a consensus or solution that As cliched as it sounds, no matter how many both of you will be happy with. years you’ve been married, keeping the fire

Transparency about finances

Every individual is entitled to financial stability, so it’s completely fine if you have a separate bank account, where you save up money. But it’s equally important that your spouse is aware of your finances too.

Whether it’s investing in a new policy or

embers burning bright is important in your relationship. Says Dr. Sanjoy Mukerji, marriage counsellor, “Give appreciation, attention and quality time to your partner, whenever genuinely possible. Make him feel special.� If you have children, send them to their grandparents and go out.

Why our Young Generation are not interested in Marriage? * It is very common social problem of our society * Parents are worried about their youth interest in marraige life * What are the reasons behind our youth are they answerable to us? * Are parents are responsible of that? * If not then who are responsible of this sensitive social matters?

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Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

HEALTH

Other side of the mirror: Can I stress, please By: Bikram Vohra One of the most irritating words in the English language is ‘relax’ I hate it, I hate it even more when it is offered as gratuitous advice.

Look, if I want to relax, I can figure it out for myself, OK. The same goes for my wanting to stay steamed up. If I am steamed up, it’s because I have a good reason. So why is this most obvious response given credibility? It’s the first off the bat.

“Relax” say your friends, when pieces of your career are falling around you. “Take it easy,” says your wife when the bills don’t match up. “Cool it, loosen up,” say colleagues when the boss is giving you a hard time. “Easy does it,” say well-wishers when business has gone bust. “Stay calm,” says the doctor, learn to take things in your stride.”

Where do these people live, they can offer this rubbish as a sensible option. If someone’s banged my car, why should I relax? From the moment you wake up someone or the other is ruining your stride and still you’re supposed to take it easy.

Can you imagine what the world would be like if everyone was laid back and non-non-yes that’s it, nonchalant. It’s over-rated, it’s unnatural and this constant barrage demanding that you stay loose is driving me neurotic.

In fact, trying to get into that state of mind is perhaps the single most stressful activity going. Went to the acupuncturist once to learn to take it easy. He made me lie down and then intoned something about ‘go to sleep’ you are sleepy now, drowsy, drowsy, drowsy.’

I wasn’t just wide awake, I was chipper. “Said so,” told him, “each little toe wouldn’t go to beddy bye.”

He said, “I wasn’t trying, now let the whole body go slack.”

“OK”, I said, “you’re the boss, slack, here I come”. Nothing happened.

“You’re tense”, he said, “wouldn’t you be, if someone was poking fistfuls of pins into your anatomy”!

Anyway, it was what at best could be called an abortive therapy session. I never went back again. Rather tense than tortured.

However, in recent years, I noticed a marked craving for relaxation. It’s almost a fetish. Visualize the hurried executive at work. He looks at his watch, “I’m off”, he says, leaping up. “I have 90 minutes relaxation period now”. “Come on”, he exhorts body, “ree-lax, hurry up”. “I’ve got to be at the meeting at 4.30, haven’t got time for you whims”.

Finally, he gets so wound up trying to relax, his nerves get more taut by the minute. He’s doing breathing exercises. He’s forcing his shoulder muscles to turn to jello. He’s trying to make his mind go blank, except the proposal he’s going to present at the meeting keeps intruding. By the time he’s back to work, he’s so hung-up about his failed attempt he’s more hyper than when he went in.

People go on holiday to relax. They lose passports, get robbed, suffer second rate lodgings, the insults of stewards serving sloppy food, ride in ghastly public transport and mark eons at airports, returning home frazzled in nerve and totally

exhausted in the mind.

Let’s face it. You can’t relax. It’s no longer valid. To feel guilty about it is fast becoming a waste of time.

Where can you go? Home, try it.

Thursday afternoon nap time, guarantee a phone call or a visitor. Take phone off hook. Now worry about who may be trying to get through, what if it’s important. Go to the pool or to the beach, children, ants, noise, fights, end up harangued. Go for a trip. Car has a flat, heats up, breaks a fan belt. Take up yoga. Get bill for yoga lessons.

Suddenly the calm transcendental meditation plonks back to reality.

Ah! the weekly off. Stay home, one happy family, isn’t this nice, daddy, mummy and darling progeny, warmth and well being. Chance remark starts debate, deteriorates into full scale argument, becomes slanging match, kids begin to cry, parents tell them to “shut up, go to your room”, television adds to cacophony, doors are slammed, so much for bliss and elevenses.

Go to work. Enter the office, hear top level has decided on staff reori-

entation for maximum manpower resource allocation which means someone is getting the heave ho ... could be you. Worry yourself sick.

Are grateful to discover you’re in the 200 Dhs raise list, acknowledgment for 5 years’ hard work. Grovel with gratitude. On the way home, realize you’ve been duped.

Where’s the chance to relax? At home, guests you don’t want to know are coming. The kettle’s burnt an element because the house-boy put water only half way, the insurance installment has arrived, who’s shouting, not me, I love stress. I dote on it.

It’s the relaxation that gets me down. www.arabnews.com

Pay attention to how children eat, not just what

Eating behaviours of preschoolers, such as having meals while plunked in front of the TV, can lead to elevated cholesterol levels that could put kids at risk for cardiovascular disease later in life, new research suggests.

The 2008-2011 study of almost 1,100 children aged three to five found those with poor eating behaviours had higher blood-cholesterol readings than children who had healthier eating habits.

“It shows that we should pay attention to how children eat, not just what they eat,” said Dr. Nav Persaud, a family physician and researcher at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, who led the study.

“We should be paying close attention to these young children, preschoolers aged three to five, because the early changes that may lead to serious problems later on are occurring in this age group and it’s an opportunity for us to intervene early and get kids on the right track,” he said.

The study, published Monday in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, involved 1,076 preschoolers enrolled in the TARGet Kids! practice-based research network in Toronto.

Researchers looked at the link between eating habits and blood-serum levels of so-called “bad” cholesterol like LDL and triglicerides, which can be markers of later cardiovascular risk.

Parents filled out questionnaires assessing eating behaviours, such as watching television while eating, dietary intake, parental concerns about activity levels and growth, screen time and use of supplements. Researchers measured height and weight of both the children and their parents and took blood samples to determine cholesterol levels.

Researchers found that “the less healthy the eating behaviours, the higher the cholesterol level,” said Persaud.

Those behaviours include eating while watch-

ing TV — and likely when engaged with other screens, such as computers and tablets — and snacking on fluids like juice that can leave kids feeling full at mealtime.

“The other issue related to [avoiding] the TV is it gets kids to pay attention to what they’re eating, which may make them more interested in variety and having a balanced diet,” Persaud said.

“It also gets kids to focus on internal cues about when they’re full. “[Food] variety isn’t valued as much when you’re in front of the TV because you’re distracted by the TV, so your food doesn’t have to be as interesting.”

Make mealtimes fun Persaud said previous research has suggested that “responsive feeding,” in which kids are presented with a selection of nutritious foods and allowed to choose when and how much they eat, “is healthier.”

“The idea [is] to give kids control over when they eat, but to only provide them with the healthy foods, not to give them a choice between the unhealthy and the healthy foods,” he said.

Other research has shown that modelling — in other words, parents or caregivers exhibiting good dietary habits like consuming lots of vegetables — can also promote healthy eating in children.

Persaud also advises parents to “try to make mealtimes fun for kids.”

Creative presentation of food, such as cutting vegetables into interesting shapes, can encourage healthier eating habits, he said.

Dr. Guido Filler, chief of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, said the study has some limitations, including the fact that researchers did not measure the kinds of foods children were ingesting but relied on parents’ reports.

However, he lauded the researchers for investigating cholesterol levels in preschoolers, saying it is an issue that has been understudied in young children, “and in my opinion it should be.”

“This study sort of augments the data and the growing evidence that diseases that we used to have only in adults is now moving into childhood — diabetes, heart disease, hypertension,” said the kidney specialist, adding

that almost half of the adolescents he sees on referral have high blood pressure, mostly because of being overweight.

“So targeting preschool children is a very, very good idea. And it would make sense that behaviour and nutritional intake are causing new problems that are potentially modifiable.”

Persaud said it’s known that in older children, elevated cholesterol levels are associated both with the later risk of heart attacks and strokes, based on studies that followed children into

adulthood.

However, comparatively few studies are done on three- to-five-year olds, and that needs to be remedied, he said.

“This age group is usually neglected, so we’re trying to draw attention to the importance of focusing on this age group, where it might be possible to intervene and promote healthy eating behaviours that would have implications later on.”

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22

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

PAKISTAN

Kashmir Solidarity Day 5th February

Nawaz invites India for talks on Kashmir ‘Hope Delhi reciprocates my invitation in positive manner;’ Pak PM addresses joint session of Pak Assembly.

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Wednesday invited India to engage in a “comprehensive, sustained and result-oriented” dialogue with Islamabad to resolve the Kashmir issue. “I invite India for a comprehensive, sustained and result-oriented” dialogue for the resolution of the Kashmir issue, Sharif said while addressing a joint session of Pakistan-administered Kashmir’s assembly.

Sharif stressed that the region will remain in the grip of “mistrust and tension” as long as the Kashmir dispute is not resolved in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Rallies were organised across Pakistan by various political parties and Kashmiri separatist groups as the country marked “Kashmir Solidarity Day”,

observed by Pakistan on February 5 every year since 1990.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, I reaffirm Pakistan’s firm commitment to a just and peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the protection of their fundamental rights”, Sharif added.

“We will always stand by our Kashmiri brethren until the realization of their right to self determination”, the Prime Minister maintained.

The Jamat-u-Daawah organised a number of protests in various cities including Lahore and Islamabad.

JuD chief Hafiz Saeed addressed a rally in Lahore.

Since he assumed office last year, Sharif has spoken in favour of better ties with India. However, the killing of seven Indian soldiers and heavy exchanges of fire along the Line of Control sent relations plum-

meting.

Pakistan Prime Minister in his speech today expressed confidence that the Indian leadership “while realizing the sensitivity of the issue” will reciprocate to his invitation of dialogue in a positive manner and give “right to self-determination” to the people of Kashmir. Sharif said Pakistan has taken several concrete steps to reduce the hardships faced by the people living on both sides of the Line of Control.

The steps include opening of the Line of Control to facilitate trade and movement of people. These steps clearly reflect that Pakistan desires peace, he said. The Prime

Minister said the Kashmir dispute remains on the list of unfinished agenda of the United Nations.

Prime Minister also urged the international community to play its role in securing for Kashmiris their right to self-determination. He said the Government and the people of Pakistan are observing Kashmir Solidarity Day, adding; “This is an occasion to reiterate our firm support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their legitimate struggle for their inalienable right to selfdetermination.”

“On this day we reaffirm our resolve to stand by our brothers and sisters in their valiant struggle for

their just cause. The peaceful people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to suffer. Not only the right to self-determination is being denied to them but they are also being subjected to the worst kind of human rights abuses violence and suppression”, he added.

The Prime Minister said thousands of Kashmiris have lost their lives and thousands more are languishing in Indian jails, adding, however, “atrocities and humiliations have not deterred them from a cause cased on their legitimate aspiration of their right of self determination as enshrined in the UN Charter and UNSC Resolutions.”

Sharif was quoted by the state-run APP news agency as saying “a just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiris is a sine qua non for lasting peace in South Asia”. http://www.greaterkashmir.comww

Imran Khan declines Taliban talks role

The party of Pakistani cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan said Monday they “appreciated” a Taliban request for him to represent them in peace talks with the government, but declined the offer.

Two teams, nominated by the government and

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), will hold a preliminary meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday afternoon to chart a “roadmap” for talks.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif caused surprise last week by naming a team to begin dialogue with the militants, who have been waging a violent insurgency since 2007.

Following a bloody start to the year, with more than 110 people killed in militant attacks in January, many had been anticipating a military offensive against TTP strongholds in Pakistan’s tribal areas.

The TTP named Khan as one of its negotia-

tors on Saturday, along with several hardline religious figures including Maulana Sami-ulHaq, known as the “Father of the Taliban”.

Khan, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaaf (PTI) party, has been a vocal supporter of negotiating with the insurgents.

But PTI spokeswoman Shireen Mazari told AFP on Monday that because a senior party figure, Rustam Shah Mohmand, was already on the government team, Khan’s presence was not needed.

“The core committee of Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaaf appreciated Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan offer to our chairman Imran Khan to become part of their committee,” Mazari said.

“We expect a ceasefire from both the government and the Taliban -- it’s mandatory for the peace process,” said Haq. He told AFP that the TTP, which has repeat-

edly said it wants Islamic sharia law to be imposed throughout Pakistan, had not yet put forward any formal demands for the talks.

“We will try to complete the negotiations in weeks instead of months,” he said.

Despite the moves towards peace talks, a new attack against the Pakistan military was reported on Monday. Two soldiers were wounded in South Waziristan tribal district, along the Afghan border, when a roadside bomb struck a military convoy, a security official told AFP on condition of anonymity. The official blamed militants for the attack.

On Sunday a grenade attack in a cinema in the northwestern city of Peshawar, which killed four people, raised fresh doubts about the viability of any peace deal with the TTP, a fractious coalition of militant groups.

armed groups of religious fundamentalists, who began to challenge the state’s monopoly of legitimate violence, presenting themselves as defenders of both Islam and the victimised Pashtuns in Pakistan. Their claims are false.

Last year alone the TTP (Pakistani Taliban Movement), the largest of the armed fundamentalist groups, carried out hundreds of attacks in different parts of the country, massacring several hundred innocents and half that number of security and military personnel.

Who were the dead? Christians in Peshawar, Shias in other parts of the country, naval ratings in Karachi, intelligence operatives, and policemen and soldiers everywhere.

Attempts by the military over the years to clear them out from certain areas they occupied (Swat being the best example) failed for two reasons: the military steamroller is clumsy and reckless, often achieving the exact opposite of what it has set out to do before having to withdraw; and, second, once the soldiers return to barracks, the civilian infrastructure is far too weak to resist armed intrusions by the militants. The pattern is repeated and nothing changes.

A few weeks ago the TTP targeted military headquarters in Rawalpindi, killing soldiers and civilians. As the prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, arrived to visit the wounded in a local hospital, crowds of angry citizens chanted the choicest Punjabi abuse against the TTP and demanded action. A shaken Sharif authorised one of his closest ministers to virtually declare war: the Pakistani air force was despatched to target TTP headquarters. The TTP

leaders were shocked, and suggested immediate talks with the government.

fend the TTP too much. Islamabad has developed the theory of “strategic depth”: keeping Afghanistan out of the hands of India’s allies as a defensive strategy against India. This was always slightly absurd, given that both India and Pakistan are nuclear powers and any serious conflict would be a disaster for both countries.

Also, the Pashtuns in Afghanistan have always resented the British division of their lands and quite a few in Pakistan feel closer to their Afghan brethren than the regimes in Islamabad. The Taliban veil has masked this hostility and given it religious colours, but, underneath it all, the national question remains strong. If a section of the ISI supports the armed networks, it is difficult for other wings of the ISI to close it down.

A lasting solution, which may well not be the one favoured by many Pakistanis, will come after the US and its auxiliaries have left the country. The puppet president, Hamid Karzai, is aware of all this, which is why he has declared: “The Taliban are our brothers,” and denounced the British presence in Helmand.

He will probably try to promote Pashtun nationalism to weaken Islamabad. The stakes are high for all sides.

Tariq Ali has been a leading figure of the international left since the 60s. He has been writing for the Guardian since the 70s. He is a long-standing editor of the New Left Review and a political commentator published on every continent. His books include The Duel: Pakistan on the Flightpath of American Power, and The Obama Syndrome

Pakistan’s future is tied to the Taliban

With the impending withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, the time has come to talk – despite the horrific wave of bombings

Twelve years ago, a few weeks into the occupation of Afghanistan, I suggested (in these pages) that the euphoria aroused by an easy conquest was misplaced. It would be a long war and one of its side effects would be to seriously destabilise Pakistan. Unfortunately, events have not contradicted the analysis.

The spillover into Pakistan has been creating havoc for years. The view that this has nothing to do with Afghanistan is too shallow to deserve serious consideration.

It’s no secret that, since 9/11, successive governments –Musharraf, Zardari and now the Sharif brothers – have agreed to US drone attacks and been aware of covert CIA operations being carried out in Pakistan. Opinion polls, however, reveal that a large majority of Pakistani citizens are opposed to US policies. The capitulation of liberal secular parties to Washington left the field wide open to

They asked Imran Khan, leader of the PTI – the provincial government in Pakhtunkhwa province, which borders Afghanistan – to be part of their delegation. Embarrassed by the request, he refused. But others have been found, including Sami-ul-Haq, the creepy cleric touted as the “father of the Taliban”.

Nawaz Sharif has decided to back off from military action, and talks are expected to start very soon. They may produce a temporary ceasefire, but not much more.

However horrific the spate of recent bombings, the heart of the problem remains Afghanistan. It is not the case that the TTP and related networks are so powerful that their leaders cannot be found, captured, charged and punished. The fact is that, with the impending withdrawal of the US from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s intelligence service, the ISI, and its bosses in Pakistan cannot afford to of-

23

Rabi ul Thani 7, 1435 H February 7, 2014

SPORTS

Sedins point the finger at themselves as Canucks continue free fall

Henrik Sedin is playing hurt. That’s obvious.

He’s pulling up when he senses contact coming. He appears to have some issues at times catching his breath on the bench. Most troubling, he’s not close to being the star player the Canucks could use to drag them out of this sinkhole by the scruff of their collective necks. Henrik could be taking these games off. And maybe, if the Canucks go 0-for-5 on this road trip, the team will look back and wish he did. But he’s not taking himself out.

It’s not because of the Olympics. In fact, it’s just the opposite. It’s because the Canucks, now just two points up on the Winnipeg Jets, have never needed him more. “I’m good enough to play and that’s where we are,” Henrik said. “We are missing a lot of guys.

If you can give something to the team, you have to get out there. “If I felt I couldn’t help the team, I wouldn’t be out there.” And without missing a beat, he took responsibility for the plight the Canucks are in. They are in their biggest free fall in nearly 15 years.

They have four wins in 18 games. In those 18 games, which make up more than 20 per cent of a season, the Sedins have combined for one goal. It’s unthinkable, really.

Just one goal, and it was scored in the first of these 18 games. “We have to do more,” Henrik said. “It’s not good enough to just be out there and create chances and be happy.

We have to bear down and score.” It represents a departure of sorts for the Sedins, who have spent a significant amount of time during the past couple of seasons telling people they don’t need to score for the Canucks to win. Turns out, they were wrong.

“It’s

easy to make plays when you’re winning,” Henrik said. “It’s when you lose, that’s when you have to show some confidence.

“The difference right now is we’re not scoring, me and Danny. We have to step up and score goals. That’sNo. 1. It’s going to get us out of this drought and it’s going to get the team going. “If we’re not going it’s tough for them to make a difference. We have to be difference makers. We’re not right now.”

There was no sugar-coating there. It’s as strong as it gets from the Sedin twins. And it’s bang on. Ryan Kesler can score the odd goal, but when you look at this lineup who else is there? Jannik Hansen is AWOL, Chris Higgins is injured and Alex Burrows is a wreck. He may never score again. That’s how it feels anyway. Daniel Sedin had a great chance to step up Tuesday. He made a great play at the blueline and was in alone on a short-handed breakaway. His shot never had a chance as it hit Tuukka Rask in the centre of Tuukka Rask. “It was a big play in the game,” Daniel said. It would have tied the game, and head coach John Tortorella would later pick it out as a turning point, even though the Canucks never really had a chance. “That’s what we get paid to do, that’s the bottom line,” Daniel said. “That’s where I need to step up and score. “If we’re not going to do it, myself, Henrik and a few other guys, we can’t ask the other guys to do it either. “It has to come from us.” How much of what is happening is on the Sedins?

“A lot,” Daniel said. “We’re the biggest part of this team.”

Source: The Province

PCB oppose Big Three proposals

The PCB has strongly opposed the move to revamp the global game and called it “neither in line with principle of equity nor in the interest of game of cricket”. The announcement came after a meeting of its governing board, presided by PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf, who had been present at the ICC meeting in Dubai last week to discuss the radical proposals which will give the Big Three countries a larger portion of ICC revenues and more of a say in the game’s administration. “The Board Members deliberated and expressed serious concerns on the model proposed by BCCI, ECB and CA which was neither in line with principle of equity nor in the interest of game of cricket,” a PCB press release said. “The Board has reiterated the position that Chairman PCB request audience with the Patron of PCB, H.E the Prime Minister to apprise him on this matter of immense significance and of national interest which

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will have wide reaching impact on future of cricket in Pakistan.” Ashraf said last week that he wanted all decisions to be taken through consensus, and didn’t want the proposals to be approved hastily. “The Board appreciated and supported the stance taken

by Chairman PCB at the last ICC Board meeting at Dubai. The Board authorised Chairman PCB Mr. Zaka Ashraf and COO Mr. Subhan Ahmad to engage with other Board members to align the common position and take other requisite remedial measures in the interest of cricket in Pakistan.”

After the Dubai meeting, the ICC had said its Executive Board “unanimously supported” a set of principles which were more or less along the lines of the original proposal, though there were some concessions granted to the members outside the Big Three.

The proposals had not been voted on in that meeting, but could be at the next ICC meeting in Singapore on February 8.

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