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to record highest Trump accuses Iran of fuelling ‘fires Pakistan growth rate in nine years of sectarian conflict and terror’ “FROM LEBANON TO IRAQ TO YEMEN, IRAN FUNDS, ARMS AND TRAINS TERRORISTS, MILITIAS AND OTHER EXTREMIST GROUPS THAT SPREAD DESTRUCTION AND CHAOS ACROSS THE REGION,” TRUMP SAID.
US President Donald Trump on Sunday urged Islamic leaders to take a stand against violence done in the name of religion, describing the str uggle against extremism as a “battle between good and evil”. In a highly anticipated speech in Saudi Arabia, Trump lashed out at Iran, accusing Tehran of fuelling “the fires of sectarian conflict and terror” and calling for its international isolation. Saying he came with “a message of friendship and hope and love”, Trump told dozens of Muslim leaders that the time had come for “honestly confronting the crisis of religious extremism”. “This is a battle between barbaric criminals who seek to obliterate human life, and decent people of all religions who seek to protect it. This is a battle between good and evil.” The speech came on the second day of a visit to Saudi Arabia, part of Trump’s first foreign tour that will take him next to Israel and the Palestinian territories and then to Europe. The White House has sought to draw a clear distinction during the visit with Trump’s predecessor Barack Obama, who Saudi Arabia and its Sunni Arab allies saw as
lecturing and soft on their Shiite rival Iran. Trump did not hesitate to single out Iran in his speech. “Until the Iranian regime is willing to be a partner for peace, all nations of conscience must work together to isolate it.” He appealed to Muslim nations to ensure that “terrorists find no sanctuary on their soil” and announced an agreement with Gulf countries to fight financing for extremists. Introducing Trump, Saudi King Salman called Iran “the spearhead of global terrorism”. Unlike the Obama administration which would often raise concerns over civil liberties with longstanding Arab allies, Trump had made no mention of human rights during his visit so far. “We are not here to lecture — we are not here to tell other people how to live... or how to worship. Instead, we are here to offer partnership — based on shared interests and values,” Trump said. Some 35 heads of state and government from Muslimmajority countries were in Riyadh for the Arab Islamic American Summit, mainly from Sunni states friendly to Saudi Arabia. Much of the focus during the summit was on countering
what Gulf states see as the threat from Iran, which opposes Saudi Arabia in a range of regional conflicts from Syria to Yemen. ‘Tremendous’ first day Trump’s speech was touted as a major event — along the lines of a landmark address to the Islamic world by Obama in Cairo in 2009. It was especially sensitive given tensions sparked by the Trump administration’s attempted travel ban targeting several Muslim-majority nations and his previous remarks on Islam. In December 2015, Trump told a campaign rally he was calling for a “total shutdown” of Muslims entering the United States “until our country’s representatives
can figure out what the hell is going on”. His words shocked many Americans, with Trump detractors noting that the US Constitution prohibits religious discrimination. “I think Islam hates us. There is a tremendous hatred there. We have to get to the bottom of it,” Trump said in a March 2016 interview with CNN. Still, Trump was welcomed warmly in Saudi Arabia, where he and first lady Melania Trump were given an extravagant reception by King Salman and the rest of the Saudi royal family. T he f i rst d ay saw the announcement of hundreds of billions of dollars in trade deals, welcome news for Trump as he faces mounting
troubles at home linked with the probe into alleged Russian meddling during last year’s election campaign. Among the agreements was an arms deal worth almost $110 billion with Saudi Arabia, described as the largest in US history. The trade deals announced on Saturday were said to be worth in excess of $380 billion, and Trump proudly declared the first day of his visit “tremendous”. On Sunday he held a series of meetings with other Arab leaders, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah alSisi, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and Bahrain’s King Hamad.
GDP growth in Fiscal Year 2017 is expected to climb to 5.2 percent—the highest in nine years—and the growth rate will continue to accelerate, reaching 5.5 percent in FY18 and 5.8 percent in FY19. Released twice a year, the Pa k i s t a n D e velo p m e nt Update sets out recent developments across the economy and identif ies risks and opportunities in the nearterm future before focusing on a handful of key development challenges. The report was launched in Lahore on Saturday in collaboration with Lahore School of Economics, according to a press release issued by the Bank. Pakistan’s growth will continue to benefit from growing consumer and investor
confidence in the first half of FY17, following the successful efforts to restore macroeconomic stability during the last 4 years. The report highlights that more recently, weakening trade and fiscal balances point toward the need to continue with the reform efforts to consolidate the hard-won stability. “Pakistan’s accelerating growth is good news and reflects the country’s success in building confidence. But the pace of reforms has slowed and it is important for the structural reforms to accelerate,” said Illango Patchamuthu, World Bank C o u n t r y D i r e c t o r fo r Pakistan. A moderate increase in investment is expected to supplement growth, driven
primarily by public and private consumption. But the country’s current account deficit and fiscal balances deteriorated in the first half of the financial year, which could affect the refor m moment u m. The repor t emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal and provincial governments in delivering on the country’s reform agenda. “Since the 18th Constitutional Amendment, many important reform areas are now shared responsibility. Provinces have a significant role to play in fiscal consolidation, energy sector reforms and business environment, not to mention their role in delivering high quality health and education services,” said Muhammad Waheed, World Bank Senior Economist for Pakistan.
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Saturday has unequivocally stated that Kulbhushan Jadhav’s case would be taken to its logical end in accordance with domestic laws. He was addressing passing out parade of FC at Warsak, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Nisar issued warning to Afghanistan that Pakistan would not pay heed if it continues to utter India’s
articulations. About Iran, the Interior Minister said he will visit the country after Ramadan and all the matters will be addressed amicably. He said Pakistan and Iran enjoy close relations and these will remain so in future as well. Nisar also renewed his vow of uprooting terrorism from country for once and all. “Pakistan has achieved key feats in anti-terror campaign
due to unrivalled sacrifices rendered by law enforcement agencies,” added interior minister. Referring to the role of the FC, the Interior Minister said the FC personnel are the protectors of Pakistan and they will have to set new trends of professionalism and commitment in order to free the country of all undesirable elements.
Jadhav’s case will be dealt in accordance with domestic laws: Interior minister
2 Monday - May 22, 2017
THE DESTINATION
NATIONAL
PAKISTAN SOCIETY DINNER THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH ATTENDS DINNER MARKING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF PAKISTAN
PHOTO OF THE DAY
Queen of Himalaya - Nanga Parbat - The killer mountain is the ninth highest mountain in the world at 8,126 metres (26,660 ft) above sea level; It is the western anchor of the Himalayas around which the Indus river skirts into the plains of Pakistan. Exclusive photo by The Destination Team
Younis Khan’s career celebrated at Lords, UK Famous Pakistani Cricketer Younis Khan’s career was celebrated at Lords Cricket Ground of London. This farewell event took place at The Long Room, Lords. A large number of cricket fans, players of the national cricket team, members of the community and media persons attended the ceremony paid rich tributes to the legendary cricketer. In his remarks as Chief Guest, H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, Pak istan High Commissioner to the UK termed him a role model for youth to emulate. He said: “Congratulations Younis Khan for ending your over 17 years cricketing career in a memorable manner when
team Pakistan wrapped up the Test series with a historic win – first time on the West Indies soil. By becoming the first Pakistani batsman to achieve the commendable milestone of over 10,000 runs and impressive 34 centuries and captaining the team which lifted the T-20 World Cup, you have made history and made the Pakistanis proud.” Younis Khan expressed resolve that he would continue to serve cricket in Pakistan. He said it was a great honour for him to have played cricket for Pakistan and cross the milestone of 10,000 runs. He also thanked the people of Pakistan for their love
and support throughout his cricketing career. The High Commissioner commended the organizers of the event for putting this befitting farewell event together.
Russian economy to above the world average in 2019-2020, Russian PM
The Duke of Edinburgh, Patron of the Pakistan Society, attended a dinner marking the 70th Anniversary of the founding of Pakistan and establishment of UK-Pakistan diplomatic relations, held at the Mansion House; he says a press release received from London. The Duke of Edinburgh also marked 63 years as Patron of the Pakistan Society, which was founded in 1951 and based in London. The Society aims to increase public knowledge in Britain of the arts, history, geography, economic life and institutions of Pakistan. The Pakistan Society Award 2017 was presented at the dinner by The Duke of Edinburgh to Dr Syed Babar Ali OBE for services to conservation, government, and UK-Pakistan relations. Si r Nicholas Bar r i ng ton KCMG CVO, Honorary Vice President of the Pakistan Society in the citation address said that the award is being given to Dr Syed Babar Ali “for the advancement of public knowledge and understanding of Pakistan in the United Kingdom and beyond.” The dinner was also attended by HRH Princess Sarvath El
Hassan of The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The President of Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Mamnoon Hussain in his message to the Pakistan Society as its Co-Patron said: “Over the last 70 years relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom have grown from strength to strength. “Today our close partnership is not only defined by a shared history but also by a shared future of peace, prosperity and development.” The Lord Mayor of London, Alder man Dr A nd rew Parmley, who is hosting the Dinner at the Mansion House, said: “I am very pleased to have the opportunity to host this
Pakistan targets 100,000 tons of mango exports this season Karachi - Pakistan is all-set to kick off its mango exports from today with aim to meet the set target of 100,000 tons for this season, narrated Waheed Ahmed, patron in chief, All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA). A h mad disclosed that mango expor ts had remained well above the set target of 100,000 tons in the previous year as figure stood at 128,000 tons. Last
year, Pakistan added $68 million foreign exchange to national exchequer by exporting mangoes. “Mango production suffered huge setback due to a prolonged winter season and heavy winds in Punjab. Therefore, a conservative target of 100,000 tons has been set this year. About six million tons of mango production, out of total 18 million, is expected to suffer this year,” said PFVA official.
“Pakistan exports mango to around 50 countries across globe but countries like China, US and South Korea are being given special attention” added Ahmad. Ahmad further narrated that Punjab had a major share, around 67pc, in mango production. He hinted that mango price would likely float around $650 per ton, compared to $680 to $700 last year.
year’s dinner by the Pakistan Societ y at The Mansion House.” “I am confident that the UK and Pakistan’s strong and forward-looking relationship will continue to facilitate the growth and prosperity of both our great Nations. There are so many exciting opportunities for collaboration, across both physical and financial infrastructure.” The High Commissioner for Pakistan, HE Mr Syed Ibne Abbas, Honorary President of the Pakistan Society, said: “This year marks the 70th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. It gives me immense satisfaction that historic relations between
our two countries have transformed into a strategic partnership, reinforced by growing people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges” T he Chai r ma n of t he Pakistan Society, Sir William Blackburne in his address to the Dinner said: “It is a tribute to both countries that our relationship remains one of mutual cooperation based on deep and firm foundations.” “It is an especial privilege to welcome HRH The Duke of Edinburgh to the Dinner. His Royal Highness has been the Society’s Patron since 1953 and his support for our activities throughout this time has been very greatly appreciated.”
AIOU to hold series of events during Ramzan Allama Iqbal O pen University (AIOU) will hold series of events during the Holy month of Ramzan to highlight its significance. It will engage faculty members and the students to project the message and spirit of the month of fasting. While presiding over a meeting that reviewed the Holy Month’s Program, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shahid Siddiqui said that it is responsibility of the Educational institutions to motivate the youth towards their religious rites. It is important for the
youth to understand the spirit of this month, so that they could shape their life accordingly. Such events are also aimed at inculcating the spirit of Islamic teachings among their students, enabling them to promote themselves as good Muslim and to serve the society, accordance with tenets of Islam, he added. A s p e r t h e pl a n , a ‘Welcome-Ramzan’ event will be held on May 25 that will be attended by prominent religious scholars, besides the faculty members and the staff of the University.
Chinese experts visits Pakistan to review suitability of PEZs
Russian government’s action plan until 2025 assumes that the Russian economy will reach the growth rates which are above the world average in the period 2019-2020, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said at a meeting with President Vladimir Putin. “In accordance with your instructions, the government has prepared a comprehensive plan - these are general approaches to how our economy and social sector can develop in the period from 2017 to 2025,”
Medvedev said. “Namely, somewhere in the period 2019-2020 the growth rate of our economy will be at the level of the world average and above the world average. This will enable our economy to develop faster and solve major social issues,” the prime minister added. Putin noted that the government’s proposals will be discussed in detail, and when the relevant proposals of experts are received, they will also be carefully
considered. “We will also study everything carefully and draw conclusions about what is the most promising, interesting and most feasible in terms of application in order to achieve maximum effect,” the president added. “We will also study everything carefully and draw conclusions about what is the most promising, interesting and most feasible in terms of application in order to achieve maximum effect,” the president added.
Pakistan- Thailand, Turkey, Iran FTAs to boost exports ISLAMABAD (DNA) - Pakistan is negotiating Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with different countries including Thailand, Turkey and Iran, to bolster its exports. According to officials, several rounds of negotiations have been held so far with Thailand and Turkey. They said the main text
of the agreement on Trade in Goods has been finalized with both the countries and currently negotiations are underway on the items to be given concessionary market access. The officials said negotiations with Iran are underway on trade in goods, services and investment. The first round of negotiations was
held December last year in Tehran while the second meeting is likely to be held in July. Several other measures are also being taken including incentives to the industries, promotional activities and establishment of Exim Bank, to enhance the country’s exports.
Pakistan seeks France’s cooperation in peaceful use of nuclear technology Pakistan conveyed its desire to France during a meeting in Islamabad. Pakistan has sought France’s cooperation in peaceful use of nuclear technology and support for its membership of Nuclear Suppliers Group. Pakistan conveyed its desire to France during a meeting in Islamabad today to discuss issues related to nuclear disar mament and non-proliferation. The French delegation was headed by Assistant Secretary of State for Strategic Affairs Nicolas Roche, while Ambassador Tasnim Aslam represented Pakistani side.
T he t wo sides had a detailed, constructive and candid exchange of views on a wide range of issues, including
emerging threats to strategic stability at the global level as well as in their respective regions
The Board of Investment (BOI) has said that a delegation of Chinese experts would be visiting Pakistan on June 5-6, 2017 to review the suitability of Prioritized Economic Zones (PEZs) in Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. “The delegation of Chinese experts headed by deputy head of mission of Chinese Embassy w i l l eva lu at e R a sh a k a i Nowshera and Dhabeji PEZs in Sindh,” said Spokesman of BOI Shah Jhan Shah. The Spokesman said, “Foreign investors were keen to invest in various sectors of Pakistan. The government is committed to provide ease of doing business for foreign investors and also global competitiveness for Multinational Companies (MNCs).” Shah Jahan said, “Seven SEZs cells had been approved
for facilitating the investors through one window operation to provide them facility at one place.” The Spokesman said, “SEZs investors would get the facility for plant and machinery import without customs duty in all four provinces of the country.” “Three each SEZs would be established in Punjab and Sindh and one in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he added. Replying to a question, he said, “Nine more industrial zone had been approved for high tech industry to enhance the exports and and to provide employment opportunities in the country.” He said, “The SEZ Cell had been furnished on the contemporary corporate style and would be equipped with stateof-art facilities.”
Saudi Arabia gifts 150 tons of dates to Pakistan Saudi Arabia has provided 150 tons of dates to Government of Pakistan as a gift. On behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Abdul Rahman Saad Al-Twaim a n d R a id A b d u l l a h H . Al-Ghamdi, Representatives of the Government of Saudi Arabi formally handed over the consignment to Cabinet Division, Islamabad. Senior officials of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cabinet Division were also present.
On behalf of the Government of Pakistan, Cabinet Division expressed sincere thanks and gratitude for this kind gesture on the part of Saudi Arabia. He also conveyed warm sentiments of the people of Pakistan for their Saudi brethren for their love and affection and also expressed the hope that the warm and cordial relations between the two brotherly states will continue to flourish in all times to come.
THE DESTINATION
Monday - May 22, 2017
3
NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Engr. Dr. Mustansar Ali Ghazanfar
C
hina-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)is a long-term broad framework with multiple sectoral projects, which will be completed in different phases through bilateral Sc (Gold Medalist) agreements agreed upon by both sides as a win-win equation. Pakistan; MSc PhD UK Minister AhsanIqbal, while briefing over CPEC explained that the initial investment worth $46 billion would be primarily used for developing the infrastructure and producing energy, and the bulk of this amount, that is, $35 billion would be utilized for energy, and the rest for developing the infrastructure. The main focus of CPEC is energy projects and the direct rewards(especially long-term) are immense. However, there are some other hidden benefits that can change the future of Pakistan. One of these advantages is stepping close towards “Digital Pakistan” goals (listed in Vision2025 introduced by Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform) in terms of Internet User’s Density. In 1995, the Internet connectivity was less than 1%; however, toady around 40% of the world population has an Internet connection.The number of Internet users has increased tenfold from 1999 to 2013. As per figures of ITU, the 55.5% population of Internet users lives in Asia and the remaining 44.5% lives in the rest of the world. The penetration of Internet in Pakistan is very low compared to the surrounding region (central Asia). The growth in Internet user has mainly been due to pervasive mobile technology (smartphone and tablets), cheap availability of technology. Activates that attract more Internet
Publishing Editor: Rana Tahir Shahbaz Editor: Tayyaba Imran Contact #: 051-8314196 Fax#: 051-8315196 Mob#: 0300-8503803, 0347-5959747 www.thedestination.com.pk info@thedestination.com.pk
Hidden Benefits of CPEC in terms of “Digital Pakistan” Writers are requested to send their contributions at editor@thedestination.com.pk
users include online shopping, online videos, online search engines, digital social media online gamming and entertainment and many other activities. The Internet traffic is chiefly dominated by multi-billion dollar companies and transnational corporations like Google, Facebook or Amazon and their local pendants Baidu, Weibo or Rakuten. The penetration of Internet Density in Pakistan was 10.84% with (annual) increase of 9%, in India 19.11% with increase of 14%, China at 46% with increase of 4%, Afghanistan at 6% with increase of 10% in 2014. It is worth noting that in advanced countries the penetration has moved above 80%; for example, Singapore and Hong Kong. The growth of Internet density is slow is Pakistan (despite recent Launch of 4G by Ministry of IT) and as per ITU the penetration for Pakistan is 14.6% in 2015 whereas for India it has raised to 28.3% in 2015. CPEC have chalked out an impressive program through which we can explore various opportunities in addition to mere energy projects. With the launch of CPEC, the installation of fiber optics and satellite Internet connectionswill be done in remote areas and it can help boosting up the Internet user density. Moreover, once the major infrastructure (renovation of Gwadar and other routes as agreed by all parties) is built, more and more multi-national telecommunication companies willbe attracted by lucrative environment.According to ITU world telecommunication recommendation there should be around 30-40% penetration in 2015-2016 per country in Asia region. With CPEC, these figures can easily be acquired. CPEC can make lives of Pakistani better and can raise the image of Pakistan worldwide while meeting the targets set by ITU and ICT sector.
Polish Asian congress focuses on Belt and Road initiative Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry Addressed a Large Gathering of Pakistani-Americans at New Jersey
TORUN (DNA) - The Belt and Road initiative and how it has changed the world was the topic of various panels and discussions at the fourth edition of International Asian Congress, held here. “We are all inspired by the New Silk Road idea,” Deputy Marshal of the KujawskoPomorskie Region Zbigniew Ostrowski said. “The Belt and Road idea might also positively stimulate the Polish economy, so we actively take part in these actions, a proof
of which is presence of Prime Minister Beata Szydlo at the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing,” he added. Ostrowski said the KujawskoPomorskie region was an excellent example of growing interest in cooperation with China. “The Belt and Road initiative was welcomed by Poland, that it will result in the mutual benefit of all participating countries,” Radoslaw Flisiuk, head of the Chinese Department in Polish
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said, “We believe this concept can become an important factor in international efforts to consolidate a base for sustainable development.” Flisiuk expressed hope the initiative would help strengthen Polish cooperation with China, but also with other countries along the way. “The Belt and Road is open to all. China is willing to share opportunities of development,” said Lin Jian, Deputy Head of Mission, the Chinese
Embassy in Poland. The congress also discussed broader cooperation between Europe and Asian countries, security issues in the AsiaPacific region and political strategies in Asia. The congress, organized by the Asia-Pacific Society and the Faculty of Political Science and International St udies of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, attracts hundreds of scholars, researchers, experts and entrepreneurs each year
Pakistan-American Council of USA ( PAC USA) i n Edison, New Jersey organized an event to honour and welcome Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry to the United States. Besides Pakistani-Americans, the event was attended by local State Senators, Assemblymen/ women, Freeholders and the Mayor, says a press release received here today from Washington. I n t hei r rema rk s, St ate Senators Sam Thompson (Republican), Senator Ray
Lezniak (Democrats), and Assembly Woman Ms. Nancy Pinking appreciated the role of Pakistani Diaspora in promoting harmony among communities and contributing to the development of the United States. T he A mbassador in his remarks thanked Mr. Sam Khan and other community leaders for their special gesture. He urged the Diaspora to continue to play their role of a bridge between Pakistan and the United States. He urged them to join the Embassy to
celebrate 70 years of friendship between Pakistan and the United States. A mbassador Chaud h r y briefed the audience about the rapid pace with which Pakistan is defeating the forces of ter ror ism and achieving great strides in the economic prosperity. Earlier, the Ambassador participated in a separate interactive session with a select gathering of Pakistani community notables. The meetings were useful in building close relationship with the
diaspora. The Mayor of Brunswick, Senators and Assemblywoman of New Jersey presented to the Ambassador a joint Resolutions from both Houses, a Citation and a Proclamation recognizing his service for his country and welcoming him to New Jersey. The community in New Jersey thanked the Ambassador for his visit and sharing his thoughts on playing a constructive role for promotion and deepening of Pakistan-US friendship.
Joao Paulo Sabido Costa Charge d Affaires, Embassy of Portugal has said relations between Portugal and Pakistan are now growing and improving very fast. During 2016 we have witnessed an evident increase in trade ties, namely with regard to our exports. Several initiatives were meanwhile launched, as the Pakistan Portugal BusinessCouncilof the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, or the Pakistan Portugal Business Forum that has been created in Portugal. He expressed these views while speaking on the occasion of the National Day of
Portugal. Federal Minister for Human Rights Kamran Michel was the chief guest. Mr. Costa further said there was an awakening in our main economic institutions regarding the potential of Pakistan and as result many business and investment opportunities have been identified. I should say that our political relations were always good, practically since the independence of Pakistan. Portugal opened an Embassy in Karachi very early after the independence which was later transferred to Islamabad, where it is now. Since 2012 there is a new
incentive for non EU nationals to invest in Portugal commonly known as Golden Visa. This is in fact a Residence Permit for Investment Program that enables the holder to obtain a temporary residence permit to conduct business activities, he added. Portugal has undeniable know how in the area of renewable energy, as well as of hydroelectric power. That is an advantage recognized by our Pakistani counterparts at all levels and can provide a promising field of cooperation. If we keep in mind, for example, the potential in Pakistani territory in respect of wind
and solar energy, we will have to admit that both our countries and economies can cooperate and greatly benefit from such ventures. He said, the business climate in Pakistan is definitely improving with the opening of the country to the world, as well as with the bettering of the security situation. It is undeniable, also, that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor that will link China to the Arabian Sea, will be a regional game changer and will offer many business and investment opportunities, also to Portuguese companies.
Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, intends to ask France a political asylum, his attorney Juan Branco said in the France Info radio live. “I think France should be conscientious about this issue and offer Assange political asylum,” the lawyer said. “He now wants to leave the Embassy of Ecuador in London and request France for an appropriate motion to offer him asylum in order to protect him from US prosecution,” the lawyer stated. According to Branco, his client has good reason to believe he will be extradited to the US the moment he leaves the embassy. “There were threats to
hand Julian Assange a life sentence, even from Donald Trump himself a few weeks ago,” the lawyer explained. Earlier in 2015, Assange sent an open letter to then-president of France Francois Hollande asking for political asylum. Among other things, the WikiLeaks founder said that his further stay in the embassy, where he was confined since 2012, constituted a danger to his physical and moral health. The Elysee Palace declined Assange’s request then. For now, the lawyer said, all that is left is the hope that the position of current French President Emmanuel Macron will turn out to be different.
National day of Portugal celebrated
North Korea fires another ballistic missile despite sanctions threats SEOUL: North Korea Sunday test-fired a ballistic missile, the latest in a series of launches which have sparked international condemnation and threats of tougher UN sanctions. South Korea described the launch, the second in a week and the eighth this year, as “reckless and irresponsible” while the US military stressed “ironclad commitment” to defend its allies in the region. The missile, described by Washington as a mediumrange one, was fired from Pukchang in South Pyongan province and travelled about 500 kilometres (311 miles), according to the South´s
armed forces. “Our military is closely monitoring signs for additional provocation by the North Korean military and we are keeping a full military readiness,” said a statement from the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The launch came just one week after the North fired a Hwasong-12 intermediaterange missile, which according to Pyongyang flew almost 800 km and was capable of carrying a “heavy” nuclear warhead. Analysts said the Hwasong travelled further than any previous ballistic missile launched by the North. The May 14 launch was seen as a significant step forward
as the North accelerates efforts to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of delivering a nuclear warhead to the continental United States. The launches, and a threatened sixth nuclear test, have fuelled tension with the administration of US President Donald Trump, who has vowed that such an ICBM launch “won´t happen”. A White House official visiting Saudi Arabia with Trump appeared to play dow n Sunday´s firing. “We are aware that North Korea launched an MRBM (medium-range ballistic missile). This system, last tested
in February, has a shorter range than the missiles launched in North Korea´s three most recent tests,” the official said on condition of anonymity. But the South´s foreign ministry slammed the “reckless and irresponsible” firing as “throwing cold water on the hope and longing of the new government and the international community” for denuclearisation and peace on the Korean peninsula. Seoul´s incoming left-leaning government has taken a more conciliatory line with Pyongyang than its conservative predecessors, but reacted strongly to the latest two missile tests.
Sweden - Crayfish party The crayfish party, at which people gather to eat, drink and be merry, is a typically Swedish festivity marking the end of the summer. Credits: Tina Stafrén/imagebank.sweden.se
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to request political asylum in France
Published by Rana Tahir Shahbaz from Office # 2 , First Floor, Abbasi Plaza , Bani Gala Islamabad (ph: 051-8314196, fax: 051-8315196) & Printed at Roohani Art Press Islamabad
4 Monday - May 22, 2017
THE DESTINATION
VICE PRESIDENT WORLD BANK CALLS ON THE FINANCE MINISTER
Vice President of World Bank for the South Asian Region, Ms. Annette Dixon, called on the Finance Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, at Punjab House. She was accompanied by the Country Director World Bank, Mr. Patchamuthu Illangovan, and other senior officials of the World Bank. The Finance Minister welcomed Vice President World Bank to Pakistan. The current portfolio of the World Bank in Pakistan, including the status of various ongoing development projects, came under
discussion during the meeting. The Finance Minister appreciated the support of the World Bank on various projects, and expressed satisfaction on the progress made so far on the projects. The Finance Minister highlighted his recent meeting with the President World Bank on the side-lines of the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, where they had the opportunity to build on the constructive discussions the Finance Minister had held with both President World Bank and Ms. Dixon in Washington D.C. in
April 2017. The Finance Minister highlighted the economic reforms that have been undertaken by the present government with has enabled Pakistan to achieve macroeconomic stability. He acknowledged the support of the World Bank in this regard. He said that the government is now focused on achieving higher, sustainable and inclusive economic growth. He highlighted that Pa k ist a n ach ieved GDP growth rate of 5.28% during FY 2016-17, which is a tenyear high. The Finance Minister said that the government is actively working on energy projects as a top priority, and is aiming to add 10,000 MW of electricity to the system by March 2018, which will facilitate the elimination of load-shedding. The Finance Minister said that budget preparations for the next fiscal year are currently in the process of being finalized. Ms. Dixon acknowledged the success of the economic reforms implemented by the present government, which is evident from the consistent and positive growth trajectory
during the last four years, culminating in the 5.28% GDP growth rate achieved this year. She emphasized that the World Bank is committed to working in partnership with the Government of Pakistan on projects which take the development agenda forward and enable meaningful results. She said that the World Bank is keen to work with the Government of Pakistan to explore further opportunities in the renewable energy sector. She highlighted that the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the World Bank has strengthened further during recent years. The Finance Minister said that both parties must strive to further strengthen this relationship in order to take it to the next step. He said that the Government of Pakistan is always ready to cooperate with the World Bank on initiatives that can help improve the quality of lives of the people of Pakistan. Finance Secretary, Secretary Water & Power, and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs Division also attended the meeting.
CPEC related investments likely to boost FDI inflows: SBP KARACHI - The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Saturday said that the current growth momentum led by China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) related investments is likely to boost Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows. Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in FY17 is provisionally estimated at 5.3 percent representing a 10 year high. Keeping these factors in view, the Monetary Policy Committee of SBP has decided to keep the policy rate unchanged at 5.75 percent. Specifically, the revival of domestic demand has been instrumental in the current upturn. The major thrust has come from the ongoing public and private investment particularly in infrastructure and power sector. Fu r t her more, consu mer spending has also expanded with a stable inf lationary environment and banks’
renewed interest in consumer financing. On the supply side, recovery in major crops from last year, better energy supplies, and a broad based increase in Large-scale Manufacturing have facilitated this expansion. With further improvement in economic activity along with pass through of the recovering global oil prices to domestic motor fuel cost, headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation has also edged up in recent months. Going forward in FY18, current trends of rising income, surge in imports, and accelerating credit to private sector are expected to increase the CPI inflation; however, it is likely to remain within the target. The upbeat economic sentiments and low interest rates have encouraged the private sector to undertake capacity expansions. Private sector
credit posted a net expansion of Rs 503 billion during JulApr FY17, which is significantly higher than the uptick of Rs 334 billion in the corresponding period of last year. This was led by an increase in both the working capital and fixed investment loans; whereas, consumer financing also maintained the uptrend seen in the past few months. Notably, the credit flow to private businesses remained broad-based with major impetus from textile and garments, chemicals, sugar, construction, and power sectors. In tandem with the expansion in the economic activity, private sector credit uptake is expected to continue in FY18. The supply of credit remained at ease because of the healthy growth in bank deposits and government’s reliance on central bank financing along with net retirement to commercial banks.
Also, calibrated open market operations by the SBP to manage residual liquidity demand played its part, besides keeping the overnight repo rate generally close to the policy rate. Reflecting these developments, money supply (M2) grew by 13.8 percent (YoY) in Apr FY17as compared to 13.0 percent (YoY) during the same month last year. Going for ward, off icial inf lows are expected to provide support to foreign exchange reserves. A sustained increase in other private inflows – foreign direct investments and export earnings in particular – is required to fully finance the surge in imports. In this regard, accompanied with expected improvements in global demand, the current composition of imports, mainly machinery, bodes well for the future economic activities.
Religious Leaders and Consul General Tour Worship Sites to Promote Interfaith Tolerance Karachi – US Mission: In an effort to promote interfaith cooperation and religious tolerance, various religious leaders today toured places of worship in Karachi and reiterated their resolve to encourage religious tolerance and discourage extremism in the country. On their invitation, Consul General Grace Shelton also joined the group. “Today we visited a mosque, a Catholic church, a Hindu temple, a Sikh gurdwara, and a Sufi shrine. Seeing all of these religious sites today reminded me of just how diverse Karachi is, and how important it is to protect the city’s historic religious sites,” she remarked. Mangla Shar ma, Sind h C h a i r p e r s o n , Na t io n a l Interfaith Harmony Council of Pakistan added, “It is
heartening to participate in this religious tour with these leaders, it is my hope that this is just one of many initiatives in the city and country to encourage interfaith harmony.”
The leaders and Consul General joi ntly visited Ja m ia Isla m ia Clif ton, Ab d u l l a h Sh a h G h a z i Sh r i ne, Swa m i n a r aya n Hindu Temple, Guru Nanak Gurdwara and St. Patrick’s
Cathedral. Following the tour, the religious leaders met at lunch to discuss how they could build upon today’s initiative to continue promoting religious tolerance.
BEIJING (DNA) - China has denied US allegations that two Chinese fighter jets acted unprofessionally in intercepting an American military plane earlier this week, saying that its aircraft were acting in accordance with the law”. “Related remarks from the US side are inconsistent with fact,” the Chinese Ministry of Defense said in a statement posted to its website
late Friday. “On May 17, a US reconnaissance aircraft was carrying out an operation in airspace over the Chinese Yellow Sea (the northern part of the East China Sea), and Chinese aircraft acted to identify and investigate in accordance with the law,” the statement said, calling the action “professional” and “safe”. The US Air Force said in an earlier statement Friday that
its plane, a WC-135 Constant Phoenix, was conducting a “routine mission” in international airspace when it was intercepted by two Chinese Sukhoi SU-30 fighter aircraft. The WC-135 is a so-called “sniffer plane” designed to scan the atmosphere for signs of nuclear activity. “The WC-135 was operating in accordance with international law. While we are still investigating the incident,
initial reports from the US aircrew characterised the intercept as unprofessional,” the Air Force said. The statement out of Beijing came as Chi nese St ate Councilor Yang Jiechi discussed preparations for the first round of the China-U.S. diplomatic and security dialogue in a phone conversation Saturday with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.
Experts see CPEC as offering indirect economic turnaround for Pakistan
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would be a ‘game changer’ for the economy of Pakistan not because of the volume of investment it was carrying but in terms of impact of the nature of the entailing project that would prove real turnaround for our national economy and hence to usher a new era of economic development and prosperity in the country. Dr. Saad S Khan, senior faculty member of the National School of P ublic Policy du r ing a special lect u re ‘Unpacking CPEC as a Game Changer’, held at Sustainable Development policy Institute (SDPI) in Islamabad. Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director SDPI, on the occasion covered various aspects of the CPEC and its overall socio-economic impacts for Pakistan. He said
that the economic dividends of the project were depending on how these opportunities would get exploited and the level of preparedness that it required. He said that CPEC could create an actual win-win situation for Pakistan if complimentary reforms including streamlining of tax and tariffs regime, trade facilitation and increasing the transparency of trade regulations would be introduced in a way that our local industry could not get left out of the process of development. Dr. Abid said that provision of employment to local population in main project activities areas was crucial to redress resistance and resentment about the project that was being posed by various segments of society. Besides, government needed to work upon a better communication strategy so that people
Pakistan adopts international standards for performance evaluation Pakistan has become first country in South Asia to start the performance measurement of the Department of Auditor General of Pakistan as per international standards. According to a press release issued here Friday, Pakistan had adopted Per for mance Me a s u r e me nt Fr a mework ( PM F), developed by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). For first time since its establishment, the department in collaboration with World Bank (WB) has started the process of selfassessment of its performance. During a workshop organized by the World Bank DAGP participants did a self assessment against the checklist as a first step in working with the Perfor mance Measurement Framework. The workshop outcomes included sharing challenges that SAI Pakistan faces in meeting all the prerequisites and that the AGP faces in developing
strategies to move SAI towards effectively complying with the ISSAI framework. Wit h t he adopt ion of Perfor mance Measurement Framework, the SAI Pakistan will not only measure its own performance but will also be able to participate in its own Peer Reviews and External Reviews as well as peer reviews and external reviews of other SAIs. Perfor mance Measurement of SAI Pakistan will enable it to apply the I NTOSA I Framework on Communicating and Promoting the Value and Benefits of Supreme Audit Institutions to enhance the credibility of SAIs and improve the lives of citizens. It will also increase public knowledge of the work and role of SAIs and their added value through ongoing awareness-raising activities. The results of Performance Measurement exercise will be shared with public and stakeholders in due course of time.
should know about real developments on the project instead of taking pre-conceived and pre-mature stance on various ongoing happenings, especially, the negotiation process with Chinese government on CPEC modalities on an ongoing basis. Dr. Saad S Khan while covering different dimensions of CPEC said that the project was one of the 6 corridors that China has envisaged to enhance its trade and investment around the world. Therefore, he said, the purpose of this project for China was to find affordable economic route to boost its exports from Xinjiang province and the investment of USD 46 billion that the project attracted was not offering a huge economic boost for Pakistan. However, he said, CPEC involved 18 energy projects
CPEC will not change China’s position on Kashmir issue: Chunying
M i n i s t e r of St a t e fo r Information Technology and Telecommunication Anusha Rahman said that Pakistan has friendly investment policies particularly focusing on promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship. She expressed these views while talking to Senior Advisor of the International Trade Center of the lead UN Agency for Development
of Trade and Commerce (UNCTAD) James Howe Leslie in Islamabad. T he meeting discussed many issues of mutual interest including E-commerce platforms and other value chain component as well as E-Solutions. The discussion was with specific reference to enabling Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to have viable online businesses.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying has said that the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will not change Ch i na’s posit ion on t he Kashmir issue. “Kashmir is an issue between India and Pakistan, and hopefully will be resolved by the two sides through dialogue and negotiation,” Chunying said while responding to a question during her regular press briefing in Beijing. She said, “CPEC, as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, would help enhance regional connectivity and promote common development and prosperity for regional countries.” She said, “The Belt and Road Initiative was an open and cooperative one and operated under the principle of joint contribution, extensive consultation and shared benefits.” “All countries along the Belt and Road are welcome to join the initiative to share development opportunities and benefits,” she added. The spokespersons said, “As part of the Belt and Road Initiative, the CPEC will help enhance regional connectivity and promote common
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is supporting the Government of Balochistan to enact a number of labour laws. The Gover nment is making efforts to formulate or strengthen the legislation particularly in the areas of child labour, freedom of association and collective bargaining, and setting of minimum wages, through the review and reform of various labour laws, which in turn will strengthen the application of international labour standards (ILS). Three days of technical consultations took place in Quetta, followed by a special meeting of the Provincial Tripartite Consult at ion Com m it tee (PTCC). Labour welfare and law department official participated in the technical discussions with the purpose of ensuring application of fundamental labour rights of workers in line with ratified ILO
Conventions. ILO team comprising Ms. Miranda Fajerman ILO ILS Specialist and M r. Abid Niaz Khan, National Project Coordinator for the GSP+ Project) provided technical advice to the consultations. The Balochistan Industrial R el a t io n s Ac t ( BI R A), M i n i m u m Wa g e s B i l l , Payment of Wages Bill and Prohibition of Employment of Children Bill were reviewed in light of current practices, challenges, ILS, and observations of ILO supervisory bodies. These technical discussions build on position papers produced earlier on provincial labour laws by the social partners and also the outcomes of tripartite consultations in Islamabad and Karachi, which looked at provincial legislation in the post devolution scenario. Outcomes of the technical discussions were tabled yesterday to the PTCC, where
very healthy social dialogue took place among the tripartite stakeholders. Mr. Shuja ul Mulk Gichki, Director General of Labour Welfare, Balochistan mentioned that his office will circulate the draft laws along with the technical inputs received so far to the PTCC members and a followup meeting of PTCC will be convened after Eid-ul-Fitr, so that the final draft of laws could be drawn and endorsed by the PTCC. The final drafts will then enter into further legislative process. Ms. I ng r id Ch r istensen, Country Director for ILO Pakistan, while speaking over the occasion, emphasized the need for laws that are comprehensive and well-formulated, so as to ensure effective labour protection at work, consistency across the different laws and also the need for inter departmental coordination for holistically protecting the workers
Pakistan has friendly investment policies to promote innovation, entrepreneurship: Anusha
that mean these initiative would contribute significantly in redressing the energy crises of Pakistan. He said that basically it was the energy crises that has been responsible for failing the industry in Pakistan and hence, the situation of slow economic growth and joblessness in the country. Therefore, the energy that will be generated through this project would be proved actual game changer for the economy of Pakistan. Dr. Saad S Khan opined that the presence of Chinese nationals in Pakistan would actually contribute in enriching the cultural diversity in Pakistan. Likewise, the presence of Chinese security forces alongside the CPEC projects would indirectly strengthen the law enforcing agencies in Pakistan to combat terrorism and militancy.
development and prosperity for regional countries.” To yet another question, she said, “China pursues friendly and cooperative relations with countries around the world on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence, promoting regional connectivity being part of that.” Hua Chunying reiterated that, “The CPEC had nothing to do with territorial sovereignty disputes and would not affect China’s position on the Kashmir issue.” Responding to a question about Special Envoy Lee Hae-Chan of Republic of Korea’s meeting with the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, she said, “China attached importance to the visit of Special Envoy Lee Hae-chan. Foreign Minister Wang Yi also met with him.” She hoped that the two sides could use this visit to thorough exchange views on ChinaROK relations and issues of mutual interest or respective concern. While reiterating China’s position on THAAD missile issue, the Spokesperson said, “China’s position on opposing the THAAD is very clear.”
and preventing child labour in Balochistan. The technical discussions and PTCC meeting were arranged by a technical cooperation project funded by the European Commission with the purpose of supporting the governments in Pakistan to sustain the GSP+ facility, which was granted to Pakistan in January, 2014 for a ten years term conditioned to better compliance and reporting of 27 UN Conventions including 8 core labour Conventions. T he 18t h Const it ut ional amendment had necessitated that all provinces enact their own laws on devolved subjects. Rational and ILS compliant labour legislation is an important means towards ensuring the protection of labour rights and ILO has been providing technical assistance and coordination to various provinces to complete their first cycle of labour legislation.
ILO supported tripartite social dialogue on the draft labour laws in Balochistan
Beijing denies ‘unprofessional’ intercept of US plane