Aurangzeb expressed concern that despite numerous research institutions working to develop the agriculture sector they have could not produce desired results in promoting crop yields He noted that a significant portion of finances (80%) go towards salaries, leaving only 20% for research work, which he said should have been otherwise
The minister stated that the government has successfully achieved macroeconomic stability a crucial foundation for GDP growth Building on this achievement Pakistan s economy is poised to transition towards sustainable growth from 2025 onwards Notably, this claim of economic sta-
bility isn t just a government assertion but has also been corroborated by independent sources, lending credibility to the country s economic progress, he added Highlighted achievements he said, government was successful in ensuring macroeconomic stability reducing inflation to a single digit and decreasing interest rates He also mentioned the increase in consumption of cement and fertilizer, as well as a 58% surge in auto-sales, as indicators of the government’s prudent policies Aurangzeb reiterated the government s commitment to bringing reforms in taxation energy and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) sectors He emphasized the need to improve Pakistan s tax-toGDP ratio, which currently stands at 910% and aims to increase it to 13 5%
The minister also announced plans to simplify the taxation process ensure digitization and reduce human intervention On energy, Aurangzeb expressed hope that energy tariffs would come down, and efforts are underway to
President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday signed the Societies Registration Act 2024 into law, bringing an amicable end to the issue pertaining to the registration of madrasahs (religious seminaries) According to the National Assembly spokesperson President Zardari has signed the bill into law and a gazette notification in this regard will be issued soon The bill now officially a law following the president s signature provides a structured framework for the registration of religious seminaries under the Societies Act A notification signed by President Zardari on Sunday said: “The Prime Minister ’s advice at para 6 of the summary is approved The Societies Registration (Amendment) Ordinance, 2024, is signed and promulgated
‘Elite class to be brought into tax net’
A gazette shared by National Assembly Secretariat Tahir Hussain said that madrasahs founded before the act which have not been registered must do so within six months of the act’s commencement The gazette added that the legislation received the assent of the President on December 27 to become an act of Parliament Any madrasah established after the commencement of the Act must register itself within one year
According to the gazette madrasahs must submit an annual report of their educational activities to the Registrar, as well as submit an audit report of its accounts carried out by an auditor “No [madrasah] shall teach or publish any literature which teaches or promotes militancy or spreads sectarianism or religious hatred, the gazette said Every madrasah shall, subject to their resources include basic contemporary subjects in their curriculum according to a phased programme it went on to say
businesses
GOVT SAVES RS1 TRILLION THROUGH RENEGOTIATED
the
The outlets cases differ from most of the other lawsuits because they accused OpenAI of illegally removing copyright management information from their articles instead of directly infringing their copyrights But other cases could also end without a determination on fair use if judges decide that copyright owners were unharmed by the use of their work in AI training
Trump urges Supreme Court to delay TikTok divestment deadline
does not side with TikTok and no sale occurs, the app could be effectively banned in the U S one day before Trump s inauguration
ByteDance has argued that its U S operations are independent with user data stored on Oracle-operated servers and content moderation managed domestically
Trump’s stance on TikTok represents a reversal from 2020 when he advocated banning the app due to its Chinese ownership His legal team led by D John Sauer, who is also his nominee for U S solicitor general, stated that the president-elect takes no position on the merits of the law but seeks more time to address the issue diplomatically
concerns about its legality However, if the Supreme Court
The request follows Trump s December meeting with TikTok CEO Shou
Zi Chew, during which he expressed a favorable view of the app, citing its role in garnering billions of views during his campaign TikTok has yet to comment on the latest developments The Justice Department has maintained that TikTok s Chinese ties pose a national security risk, a stance supported by many U S lawmakers Meanwhile free speech advocates have criticized the law as reminiscent of censorship practices used by authoritarian regimes Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen, along with 22 other state attorneys general, filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to uphold the legislation The case highlights the ongoing debate over national security free speech and the regulation of global tech platforms
FIA BARS 31 OFFICIALS FROM TRAVEL AS INITIAL PROBE INTO GREECE BOAT TRAGEDY COMPLETED
Tising safe passage to Europe The suspects allegedly swindled a total
of Rs8 5 million from victims first transporting them to Libya and later attempting to send them to Greece by sea The tragedy, which occurred on December 14 near the island of Gavdos in southern Greece resulted in the capsizing of a wooden boat carrying migrants At least five lives were lost with many survivors recounting harrowing details of their ordeal FIA officials have intensified their efforts to dismantle the smuggling network with more arrests and expanded inquiries expected as the investigation continues
Amir Muqam praises Swat trade show for boosting local industr y and economy
Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs
Gilgit-Baltistan, and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam, lauded the efforts of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) calling it a vital initiative for empowering local industries and fostering economic development in the region
Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the two-day Swat Trade Show 2024,” Muqam highlighted the federal government’s dedication to revitalizing the economy under the leadership of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif
The measures taken by the government have reduced inflation and this trade show will provide local traders with an excellent opportunity to expand their businesses,” Muqam stated “This exhibition will attract investment and boost the national economy
The minister emphasized the government s strong commitment to steering the country toward development He criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa govern-
ment accusing it of neglecting peace and stability in the province particularly in Malakand Division and Swat despite the sacrifices made by its people
Repeated attacks on the federation are unjust to the people of this province
The PTI should stop anarchic politics and focus on addressing the real issues of the people ” Muqam remarked He further condemned the misuse of public resources on protests and sit-ins stating that PTI s agenda undermines the state and its institutions He also expressed concerns about the misuse of billions of rupees on social media campaigns targeting the state describing these actions as reprehensible and alarming
Muqam pointed out that Pakistan s economic situation is steadily improving with global recognition of the country’s development initiatives He reiterated the federal government s readiness to provide support to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in areas such as peace and order, healthcare, and other essential sectors “Under Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif ’s leadership we are working tirelessly for the betterment of Pakistan s citizens Muqam said The minister also urged the public to question the mismanagement of their resources and mandate by previous administrations He praised the Swat Trade Show 2024 as a platform for promoting local products and entrepreneurs enhancing investment opportunities and boosting the economy at both local and national levels
Muqam congratulated the organizers for successfully hosting the trade show emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in fostering economic growth Our people must promote their products to attract investment and strengthen the economy, he concluded
Legac y of Ustad Chhote Ghulam
Ali
Khan honored on 38th death anniversar y
The 38th death anniversary of renowned classical singer Ustad Chhote Ghulam Ali Khan was observed on Sunday across the country to honor his monumental contributions to the field of music Born in 1910 in Kasur into a family of musicians, he left an indelible mark on South Asian classical music Ustad Chhote Ghulam Ali Khan began his musical journey under the tutelage of his father Mian Imam Bakhsh known for his unique style of singing With a mastery of classical genres such as Khayal, Tarana, Thumri, Dadra, and Ghazal, he rose to promi-
nence at an early age He also trained under eminent maestros Ustad Chhajju Khan and Ustad Mian Buddhay Khan Beenkar a disciple of the Delhi-based Qawwal Bacha clan Over the years, Ustad Chhote Ghulam Ali Khan became an iconic figure, captivating audiences across undivided India in cities like Amritsar Lahore Delhi Banaras Calcutta and Bombay A frequent performer on radio since its inception in the Subcontinent, he was regarded as a sensation of his time, dominating music conferences and concerts He was closely associated with the Lahore Arts Council mentoring many notable pupils including Shahida Parveen Badr-uz-Zaman and Qamaruz-Zaman His artistry earned him
widespread recognition and in 1985 the Government of Pakistan awarded him the prestigious Presidential Pride of Performance award According to former PTV producer Agha Qaiser, Ustad Chhote Ghulam Ali Khan was a maestro of North Indian classical music and a contemporary of his cousin the legendary Ustad Baray Ghulam Ali Khan who remained in India after Partition and thrived there Ustad Chhote Ghulam Ali Khan passed away on December 24, 1986, leaving behind a rich legacy of musical excellence He is buried at the Miani Sahib graveyard in Lahore where admirers continue to pay homage to his remarkable contributions to classical music
COMMENT
O W E R Minister Awais Leghari has announced that the government expects to save Rs 1 trillion after negotiating new tariff agreements with IPPs using the ‘whole-ofgovernment approach Reprofiling the debt alone as was being done with China for the nuclear power plants, would shave Rs 1 50 per unit off the tariff Meanwhile, a committee headed by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar would review the taxes, including advance income tax, provincial and federal excise duties, to determine which of them could be removed from the bills The impact of those taxes is Rs 9 per unit, the cumulative impact is Rs 964 billion, including a provincial share of Rs 563 billion, which means that even a reduction, much less elimination, would upset the budgets of all The committee has thus been tasked with getting IMF approval for its proposals
The government has been engaged in an activity in which the electricity consumer which is to say every householder, business and enterprise in the country, is not really interested in What concerns the consumer is the result, which, it has been promised, will be a reduction in the tariff With IESCO, GEPCO and FESCO due to be privatized in 2025, some certainty about the tariff is needed It is perhaps ironic that the wholesale revision of power purchase agreements has been such a shock for potential investors that it affected the PIA privatisation negatively, and though IPPs are not going on the block DISCOs are Mr Leghari also took the opportunity to announce that the buyback tariff for solar power users would also be reduced to discourage solarisation Whatever solarization has occurred so far has been for economic reasons rather than environmental concern Mr Leghari should be ready for a future where consumers switch to solar power, leaving DISCO connections purely as a backup The next step, of going off-grid altogether, will happen when storage technologies improve, and then the government will also lose the taxation it is presently deducting
The government can bring the tariffs down, but it should realise that it need not carry out some dramatic change some time in the future It would be better to bring it down gradually as and when the agreements with the IPPs are made For political benefit the cumulative benefit may be announced as the process goes on
Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami Arif Nizami (Late)
Founding Editor
M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit
dr Omer Javed
Anot named Neoliberalism the extractive policies during the colonial times quite well mirrored virtually the same underlying phenomenon– which under the garb of following ‘market fundamentalism basically allows elitist influence on public policy to extract resources from the many to transfer to the few While during the colonial times, under the cover of so called ‘sound economics’ whereby what was being hailed as efficiency attained through employing ‘comparative advantage’ theory – that a country produces only that it knows best how to produce which in other words meant continued production of mainly raw cotton in the colonial lands, while the colonial masters took that cotton and produced much higher valued products in the shape of textiles So countries like China India and Egypt which were once at the cusp of starting an industrial revolution could not when under the rule of colonial masters and the so-called sound economics they practiced, were left to produce agricultural products, and not allowed to move towards more finished products Hence, countries which in terms of national income were among the top most, like in China and the Mughal Empire in India were reduced to low-income countries by the time their masters left a few centuries later
The same philosophy of market fundamentalism, and least regulation that swept many parts of the world, and which was carried on their shoulders by Bretton Woods institutions, under the influence of major shareholders of these institutions like the USA the UK for instance which by the early 1980s had mostly moved away from New Deal type policies providing a greater role for the public sector, and with the significant footprint of governments in regulating markets, for instance, through price control policies, and with a much greater welfare agenda, and appropriately reined-in property
rights application to international trade and role of multi-national companies Instead, what was being given way to, was to the adoption of Neoliberalism with arms wide open by many countries in the West, including Latin America, through ‘Chicago Boys’ styled economists and in more and more developing countries under International Monetary Fund (IMF) programmes which they were getting into mainly as balance of payments support taken by these countries mainly because of weak commitment to economic reform agenda instead, and because of the movement towards flexible exchange rate regime–after the collapse of the Bretton Woods system–overall globally putting a number of developing countries under greater debt distress Hence given the quite similar basis of Neoliberalism, as the sound economics being practiced under colonial rule, the term is a misnomer, since the policies being practiced are neither new, nor liberal, as indicated in lines above As a consequence of such policies income- and wealth inequality has surged drastically not only within countries– as extractive institutional design adopted through the collusion of politico-economic elites extracted resources from the many in the population, to a tiny elite segment through diminishing government regulation, practice of both market fundamentalism, and deep austerity policies– but also creating a big gap between the developed global North and the developing global South due to similar neoliberal policies practiced in international trade mainly through little regulated capital flows internationally, which operates as hot money and creates quite serious balance of payments issues in developing countries with little regulation of capital flows under the neoliberal assault practiced both under the influence of many of their policymakers styled in the same way as Chicago Boys and through the programme conditionalities of IMF programmes, in which a number of developing countries find themselves in from time to time
Moreover, in addition to restricting developing countries unjustifiably to certain extents of mark et th e o v er- b o ar d p r actice o f in tellectu al p
o p
erty rights (IPIs)– as done during the pandemic to r
cines by developed world overall through World
patent restrictions mainly for satisfying the profit motives of the main fund providers to the WTO, and the multinational companies that operate from these countries Hence it is exceedingly important the world gets rid of neoliberalism and within it over-board practice
A growing force in a multipolar world
of
of viewing BRICS as an emerging threat to economic hegemony of the USA Collectively BRICS countries now control more than 40 percent of the global population and nearly 30 percent of global GDP It is worth noting these countries were colonies of the West, and contributed a big chunk to the global economy in the past
coffee and beef Russia a major exporter of oil and natural gas, significantly influences global energy markets South Africa, a leading producer of platinum, gold, and other minerals has a mining sector that contributes substantially to the global supply of these resources Moreover most of the BRICS countries were once colonies of Western powers: Brazil by Portugal, India by Britain, South Africa by the Dutch and British Russia faced periods of foreign influence, and China experienced significant intervention but was never fully colonized These histories have shaped their current economic and political landscapes The shared history of colonization among the BRICS countries provides them with a unique platform for cooperation, enabling them to fulfill the needs required to emerge as significant players in global power dynamics By leveraging this common experience these countries will develop stronger economic political and strategic alliances Especially the historical bond between Russia China and India matched with the geographical proximity, not only fosters solidarity but also strengthens their position in the global power structure, making them formidable contenders in shaping future geopolitics However a big question to BRICS credibility lies with India India s participation in BRICS seems to contradict its involvement in the QUAD a strategic forum with the USA Japan and Australia aimed at countering China s influence in the Asia-Pacific, which is mainly because of its expanding economy This dual alignment depicts India as trying to play both sides to maximize its benefits which undermines its credibility with both groups This balancing act enables India to access Chinese trade opportunities while leveraging the US military technology and strategic support to counterbalance China s influence in the Asia-Pacific Given this, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), for instance, aligns with BRICS’s goals of infrastructure development providing China access to main markets such as Europe and resources in Asia Africa and Latin America Meanwhile India leverages BRICS as a platform to challenge Western trade policies, secure investments for infrastructure, and assert its leadership in the Global South China, too, benefits from multi-alignment The trade volume between China and Africa reached a record $282 billion in 2023 Although such strategies as China s economic partnerships and investments weaken the US ability to isolate or pressure rising powers, further diffusing global power For decades, the USA maintained its
hegemony through control of global financial systems, military alliances like NATO, and soft power institutions such as the IMF and World Bank Today these pillars face mounting challenges from counterbalancing institutions and alliances like BRICS signaling a shift in global power dynamics Economically the decline of the dollar s dominance in international trade poses a significant threat to the US influence The dollar ’s role as the global reserve currency has long provided America with unparalleled financial leverage allowing it to impose sanctions control global trade flows and maintain a robust domestic economy De-dollarization efforts by BRICS coupled with emerging alternative currencies like the yuan, could undermine this advantage, forcing the USA to compete on less favourable terms For example, in 2023, one-fifth of oil trades were conducted using the Chinese Yuan and Indian Rupee becoming the top used non-dollar currencies Countries that once relied heavily on US security guarantees such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey, are now exploring partnerships with China and Russia
The world is entering a multipolar era, driven by BRICS, multi-alignment strategies, and the decline of US dominance Rising powers like India and China are leveraging this transition to assert global influence and address inequities challenging traditional US leadership Platforms like BRICS enable these nations to redefine global governance However, this shift risks fragmenting international systems, complicating efforts to address shared challenges like climate change and inequality The way forward lies in fostering inclusive dialogue strengthening multilateral institutions and embracing global interconnectedness Only through collaboration can the world build a future that is balanced, equitable, and sustainable
The writer ia a Research Fellow at the Balochistan Think Tank Network (BTTN) Quetta
The way forward lies in fostering inclusive dialogue , strengthening multilateral institutions, and embracing global interconnectedness Only through collaboration can the world build a future that is balanced, equitable , and sustainable
Elitist privileges
Living in chaos
Summra Hamid
BRICS makes its place
Cyber Pandora’s box
sector is also in the lion’s den From January to October 2024 Kaspersky reported a 114 per cent increase in banking and financial malware attacks compared to the same period in the previous year This is just the tip of the iceberg in an era where states and nonstate actors alike have resorted to cyberattacks as a sought-after weapon to bring their sinister objectives to fruition
Pakistan has made significant progress by elevating its position to the top-tier of the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) in 2024 Yet the country s digital susceptibility is akin to leaving the front door wide open and providing an enemy a foothold
The evolving and complex nature of cyber technology necessitates a top-priority adaptive approach one that is nimble enough to deal with the labyrinth of cyber technology and robust enough to weather the storm of fluxing cyberattacks Pakistan’s cybersecurity endeavors are hamstrung by a shoestring budget and a skeleton cadre of well-trained professionals The incumbent strategies like National Cybersecurity Policy 2021 and Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) although well-intentioned and lay the groundwork are often lackluster in their implementation Moreover, Pakistan allocates a needle in the haystack for its cybersecurity and its commitment towards cybersecurity is akin to patch a leaky roof with a band-aid too thin to manage the storm of ever-evolving cyber challenges, in contrast to its neighbors who pour billions to shield their digital borders The country’s digital infrastructure is significantly exposed and its approach to respond to cyberattacks has often been reactive rather than proactive
The repercussions of cold-shouldering cybersecurity are far-flung One cyber-attack can block the functioning of the entire country, percolating through the economy,
critical infrastructure and national defence ultimately eroding public trust Cyber-espionage can disrupt military operations by accessing classified intel and even by exploiting or destroying key technological assets Our defence systems and once-formidable weapons can be transformed into paperweights by a single perfectly timed strike Pakistan embroiled in a tumultuous and fragile political landscape, has already succumbed to disinformation campaigns prevalent on social media fomenting discord and exacerbating existing political and sectarian divisions making it difficult for denizens to distinguish between the reality and falsehood Can we choose to gamble with the nations stability? After all, in Pakistan, beggars can t be choosers– inaction and over-caution are luxuries we can’t afford
As the saying goes “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” Pakistan must adopt a proactive and an all-encompassing approach to guard its digital borders The country should opt for a unified Cyber-Command which can serve as a centralized body integrating all branches of military (Navy, Air Force, Army)
This command would function as an epicentre for supervising cyber operations strengthening both sword and shield in the dynamic sphere of offensive and defensive cyber warfare, and stand in as a swift-response task force to counteract cyber threats instantaneously In addition, cyber ranges where recruits can practically pursue cyberwarfare simulations and drills must be developed Our
coupled with trade disputes, as Trump imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the EU, triggering retaliatory measures While relations with Canada were more outwardly cordial Trump still strained ties by imposing tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum citing national security concerns He also initiated a renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which he deemed detrimental to U S interests
Looking ahead Trump’s recent communications suggest a continuity and potentially an intensification of these policies On December 20th he stated that the EU should increase its purchases of U S oil and gas to avoid tariffs Additionally, he suggested on social media that Canada would benefit from becoming the 51st U S state, hinting at the potential for territorial expansion which followed more incendiary expansionistic remarks on Greenland the Panama Canal and Mexico In West Asia Trump s policies led to a significant realignment of relationships Under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Israel experienced notable policy benefits, including the U S recognition of Israeli sovereignty over Syria s Golan Heights The relocation of the U S embassy to al-Quds (a move that prompted strong reactions in the Muslim world) and the facilitation of “normalization” agreements between Israel and several Arab states such as the UAE and Bahrain further solidified this shift
However, these changes were accompanied by significant challenges for other parties in the region His approach strained bilateral ties across West Asia, and his dealings with Saudi Arabia, the most important Arab partner of the U S led the kingdom to strengthen ties with China and later warm up to Iran under Beijing s mediation Trump s relationship with Iran proved particularly volatile His administration s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 created a lasting impasse over Iran’s nuclear program This period culminated in a dangerous
To
these potential shifts in policy,
Times recently conducted interviews with multiple experts and officials to discuss the possible future of Iran-U S engagements and how Iran should strategize its future plans
ABOLFATH: IRAN MUST ENTER NEGOTIATIONS REGARDLESS OF POTENTIAL RESULTS: American affairs expert Amir Ali Abolfath argues that Iran should not shy away from engaging in negotiations with the United States Abolfath emphasizes that dialogue between the two nations is a persistent reality not an occasional event Iran and the United States have never truly stopped talking he points out They ve engaged in indirect negotiations and relied on third-party intermediaries for years Furthermore, the nature of negotiations has evolved; in 2024, even a carefully crafted social media post can serve as a form of communication and strategic messaging between parties However Abolfath tempers his call for engagement with a dose of realism He says current geopolitical dynamics present significant hurdles to productive talks The situation has fundamentally shifted, he explains “Iran’s increased power and perceived assertiveness have hardened the West’s stance Simultaneously Iran’s skepticism and distrust of the U S have deepened ” He notes that while strained relations between Washington and Tehran predate the 1979 Iranian revolution, the withdrawal of the U S from the 2015 nuclear deal under the Trump administration has exacerbated tensions considerably “While I firmly believe that Iran should pursue negotiations, I must confess that I hold limited optimism
REZAEI: IRAN HOLDS A STRONGER NEGOTIATING POSITION THAN THE 2010S: Ebrahim Rezaei, the speaker for the Iranian Parliament s Foreign Policy and National Security Committee, believes there are three key considerations when it comes to devising Iran’s strategy in regard to the upcoming U S administration: the diminished capabilities of the U S government the constraints it faces and the evolving dynamics of regional actors Rezaei argues that the Trump administration, should it return to power in 2024, will not possess greater capabilities than during its previous term “Despite extensive efforts to destabilize the Iranian government, the U S has been ultimately unsuccessful The failure of U S policies over the past eight years has solidified the resilience of Iran and its ability to withstand external pressures This means Iran can approach any future negotiations or confrontations from a position of relative strength, Rezaei declared Moreover, the lawmaker emphasized that the complexities of domestic and international issues facing the U S government will further limit its capacity to exert influence over Iran Multiple simultaneous crises ranging from the Ukraine conflict to tensions in West Asia will divert American attention and resources This fragmentation of focus, Rezaei argues, will constrain the U S ’s ability to adopt aggressive policies toward Iran In light of these factors, Rezaei advocates for a proactive and assertive Iranian foreign policy He suggests that Iran should leverage its stability and regional influence to counter any potential aggressive moves by a Trump-led administration By adopting a preemptive approach, Iran can safeguard its interests and maintain its sovereignty against external pressures
HARDLINE TEAM: According to Mohammad Mehdi Abbasi, an expert in North American affairs, the fact that Trump s inner circle is heavily populated with individuals who hold decidedly anti-Iran views, renders any prospective negotiations unproductive From the Secretary of State and U S envoy at the United Nations to the Secretary of Defense and National Security Advisor nearly every key figure in Trump s anticipated foreign policy leadership is deeply hawkish and fundamentally opposed to Iran, Abbasi asserts Attempting to engage in talks with individuals who question your integrity and are predisposed to adversarial policies is almost guaranteed to yield no positive outcomes ” Abbasi further argues that this situation also extinguishes the possibility of achieving specific agreements such as the prisoner swap deal that occurred during the Biden administration Given this challenging backdrop, Abbasi advocates for a strategic pivot towards strengthening ties with China and Russia He criticizes some Iranian officials for what he perceives as an excessive reliance on Washington We must prioritize solidifying our relationships with nonWestern powers especially China and Russia Abbasi emphasizes We should focus on materializing our strategic agreements with these two nations, as our continued pursuit of fruitless engagement with the West may be interpreted as a lack of commitment towards them ”
GHAREMANPOUR: ISOLATIONISTS AND NEW FIGURES LIKE MUSK COULD MAKE FUTURE
DIFFERENT: While many anticipate a further deterioration in relations between the United States and Iran under a second Trump presidency, international affairs analyst Rahman Ghahremanpour argues that such predictions may be premature He suggests that the complex geopolitical landscape and shifting domestic priorities within the U S could significantly influence the trajectory of their relationship making it far less predictable than a simple repeat of Trump s first term Ghahremanpour emphasizes that the circumstances surrounding a second Trump administration are vastly different than those of his first “During his initial term Trump had greater latitude to exert pressure on Iran ” he explains Currently the U S is significantly preoccupied with conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza which could
push Iran down the list of Trump s priorities The prominent anti-Iran voices within his team are also staunchly anti-China, potentially leading to a redirection of Trump’s focus and resources towards harming Beijing This shift in focus, according to Ghahremanpour, could create a dynamic where Iran is not the primary target of U S foreign policy Moreover he points to other factors that may shape the future The resurgence of isolationist sentiments within the U S which favor a more inward-looking approach to American affairs, coupled with the rise of new influential figures like Elon Musk, could further alter the playing field,” he states ASLANI: A NEW DYNAMIC OPENS, BUT WITH CONDITIONS: West Asia analyst Abbas Aslani cautions against assuming a repeat of Trump s first term pointing to significant shifts in Iran s own position and motivations He argues that
consider any new agreements, he explains Today, Iran has scaled back on several of its JCPOA commitments, and even Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has acknowledged that the JCPOA alone is no longer sufficient and that a new deal is necessary ” This fundamental shift in Iran’s posi-
ABBASI: IRAN SHOULD PRIORITIZE TIES WITH CHINA RUSSIA AMID TRUMP’S
TEHRAN TIMES
GA Z A DEATH TOLL RISES TO 45,514 AS 30 MORE KILLED BY
ISRAEL IN 24 HOURS: HEALTH MINISTRY
Entire IIOJK turned into an army garrison by India: APHC
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference has said that the entire Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir has virtually been transformed into an army garrison, where the basic political and legal rights of the people have been usurped
According to Kashmir Media Service APHC spokesman Abdul Rashid Minhas in a statement issued in Srinagar while expressing serious concern over the Indian BJP government s anti-Kashmir policies,strongly condemned the cordon-and-search operations and the arrest of youth on fabricated charges in the territory
The statement also condemned the harassment and threats faced by Kashmiri shawl sellers in Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Minhas said that the Hindutva-driven establishment in IIOJK which derives pleasure from inflicting pain and penalizing Kashmiris, has intensified its atrocities in the occupied territory He added that innocent people, especially youth, are being booked under draconian laws by trigger-happy forces operating under the cover of a range of repressive laws that grant them impunity The spokesman urged the international community particularly human rights organizations, to take action to stop the ongoing Indian state terrorism in the occupied territory and hold India accountable for the war crimes being committed by its forces against Kashmiris Protest held over dilapidated road condition in Rajouri
In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir residents of Akhori and Patti Planghar staged a protest demonstrtaion, expressing outrage against the authorities over the deplorable state of the road connecting the villages in Rajouri district
According to Kashmir Media Service the locals said that the authorities were neglecting the problems of the residents as the road has become almost unmotorable, posing severe risks to commuters Chanting slogans against the authorities, protesters highlighted that the lack of a proper drainage system has exacerbated the road’s deterioration They described the road as a “death trap ” with deep potholes on one side and a precarious gorge on the other warning that any mishap could lead to tragic consequences
A
HASSAN SHAH
The Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) is a beacon of regional collaboration exemplifying unity and mutual progress among its ten member states
Founded in 1985 by Pakistan Iran and Turkey as a successor to the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD), ECO aims to deepen economic ties, foster connectivity and promote cultural integration across Central and South Asia the Middle East and the Caucasus Inspired by the frameworks of the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ECO underscores the value of collective efforts in achieving sustainable development and regional stability
As a founding member, Pakistan plays a pivotal role in advancing ECO s objectives By leveraging its strategic location and historical ties Pakistan has actively promoted trade cultural exchange and infrastructure development within the region
This engagement reflects Pakistan's commitment to fostering peace and prosperity through regional collaboration
Central to ECO s mission is the promotion of cultural harmony a vision realized through the establishment of the ECO Cultural Institute (ECI) in 1995 under the Treaty of Izmir Headquartered in Tehran ECI builds on the legacy of the RCD Cultural Institute which was founded in 1965
ECI s primary mandate is to preserve and celebrate the shared heritage of its member states while fostering intellectual and artistic
collaboration
Through initiatives such as literary festivals, art exhibitions, and educational programs ECI has strengthened the cultural and intellectual bonds among member states By publishing works in English and regional languages, promoting linguistic heritage, and organizing youth programs and artistic collaborations ECI serves as a bridge that unites diverse nations through a shared cultural identity
The institute also prioritizes preserving and restoring the region s rich historical and architectural heritage By linking cultural centers libraries and museums ECI facilitates the exchange of manuscripts artworks and restoration techniques contributing to a deeper understanding of the region's history
Under the leadership of Dr Saad S Khan a distinguished scholar and diplomat ECI has expanded its reach and impact Dr Khan s extensive experience in governance, diplomacy, and international development has enriched ECI’s programs His vision emphasizes leveraging culture as a tool for unity and fostering collaborations across South Asia and the ECO region
Dr Khan s initiatives include the annual ECO Awards, which recognize excellence in literature and fine arts, and the promotion of arts and music as catalysts for peace and understanding He envisions the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to further preserve and showcase the cultural heritage of ECO member states
While ECI has made signifi-
cant strides, it faces challenges, particularly in terms of resources and infrastructure The establishment of national branches in all member states as envisioned in the ECI Charter remains a distant goal due to financial constraints A pragmatic alternative lies in forming partnerships with national cultural institutions, which could act as coordination units for ECI
Furthermore ECI has embraced modern communication tools including social media and digital platforms, to promote cultural exchange in an increasingly interconnected world These efforts reflect the institute’s adaptability and commitment to innovation even as it navigates financial and technical limitations
The cultural initiatives spearheaded by ECI have played an instrumental role in fostering peace and stability in the region By celebrating shared traditions and historical connections ECI has contributed to a sense of mutual respect and good neighbourly relations among member states For instance, Pakistan s deep historical ties with Central Asia, exemplified by dynastic and familial connections highlight the enduring cultural bonds that underpin the ECO s vision of unity ECO s journey demonstrates the transformative power of regional cooperation By prioritizing culture, trade, and connectivity, it serves as a model for fostering unity in diversity The continued evolution of ECI underpinned by visionary leadership and innovative approaches, promises to deepen the bonds among its member states and inspire similar initiatives worldwide
Qatar PM meets Hamas delegation for Gaza ceasefire talks
DOHA: Qatar s prime minister met a Hamas delegation in Doha on Saturday to discuss a clear and comprehensive ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza, a statement said Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani held talks with a Hamas team led by senior official Khalil al-Hayya, the foreign ministry statement said It is unusual for Sheikh Mohammed who is also Qatar ’s foreign minister to be publicly involved in the mediation process that has appeared deadlocked for
Dawood Global Foundation s LADIESFUND
hosted in partnership with Mrs Samina Alvi s Breast Cancer Task Force, the 5th LADIESFUND Breast Cancer PowWow on Saturday, December 28, 2024, from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm at The Buraq Center by LADIESFUND Karachi This impactful event brought together a distinguished audience of healthcare stakeholders breast cancer survivors doctors women entrepreneurs, and esteemed personalities to promote awareness and celebrate the resilience of survivors Chief Guest Dr Samina Alvi, Former First Lady of Pakistan and Chairperson Breast Cancer Task Force lauded the initiative stating: Breast cancer is not just a women s issue but a societal one Events like these play a pivotal role in breaking stigmas, encouraging early detection, and providing much-needed support to survivors I commend Dawood Global Foundation-LADIESFUND for their unwavering commitment to health inclusivity and request all to spread the word about selfexamination Hosted by Tara Uzra Dawood President LADIESFUND, the event featured inspiring stories from breast cancer survivors Simi Kamil, Fauzia Khuhro, Samina Aslam, and Dr Faizullah Abbasi, as well as medical doctors, families of those who have lost loved ones to breast cancer and members of the media (Shanaz Ramzi Saher H Paracha) law (Sana Pirzada) dance (Sheema Kermani Anjaleen Agarwalla) film (Misbah Khalid Atiya Khan Samina Aslam), drama (Kulsoom Aftab), education (Ameena Saiyid), finance (Ayesha Jangda), sports (runner Naseem Hameed Abbasi, cricketer Shabnam Hayat) et al Deeply humbled to gather some of the most incredible women and minds for an action-oriented discussion and roadmap for breast cancer in Pakistan, said Ms Dawood The stories of the breast cancer survivors were very moving, and in particular, Dr Faizullah Abbasi
LAHORE
The Chairman of the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA), Mian Atiq-ur-Rehman, and Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed have stated that in order to evaluate future opportunities traders associated with the hand-knotted carpet industry will visit the global exhibition Heimtextil , scheduled to be held in Frankfurt from January 14 to 17 2025
Their assessment will help them to make maximum use of participation in the Heimtextil exhibition to be held in 2026 they added and appreciated the steps taken by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to ensure the participation of Pakistani
manufacturers and exporters in international exhibitions
They urged manufacturers and exporters of hand-knotted carpets who will be visiting the world s largest exhibition in Frankfurt, "Heimtextil," to manage to interact with international importers from various countries because this activity will enable them to weigh up future opportunities that will be beneficial for them to plan for the 2026 exhibition They expressed hope that the TDAP will provide full support to those in the hand-knotted carpet industry for their participation in the 2026 international exhibition Heimtextil and assist in acquiring stalls at the event
Despite unfavorable conditions, efforts continue to ensure that Pakistan’s flag is raised at
BMP wants smooth gas supply to local, expor t industr y throughout winter
ISLAMABAD S TA
The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry s Businessmen Panel (BMP) on Sunday urged the government to ensure smooth gas supply to the local as well as the export industry so that local production and the exports could not be suffered which have just started to show a positive trend after a long time Expressing serious concerns over the threats of gas supply termination and notices of additional security payment by the SNGPL the FPCCI former president and BMP Chairman Mian Anjum Nisar argued that at a time when the exports data have showed some growth the government agencies instead of taking business-friendly measures are creating hurdles for the industry He quoted the latest exports data and said the exports of readymade garments rose 23 17pc by value in the first quarter and 16 16pc by quantity, while knitwear rose 14 13pc by value and 2 17pc by quantity while bedwear posted a growth of 13 31pc in value and a growth of 14 55pc in quantity which is an encouraging sign The government should extend its full support to continue this positive trend of exports growth through uninterrupted gas supply to the captive power plants at afforadable and competitive rates Mian Anjum Nisar called for swift implementation of a system based on modern technology for the selection and transmission of low-cost electricity He wanted to complete all measures for the reform of the power sector within the specified timeline He warned that the continued escalation of energy prices could result in the closure of industries, amplifying unemployment rates and diminishing Pakistan’s export capabilities
Tessori announces grand fireworks at Governor House on New Year’s Eve
KARACHI
S TA F F R E P O R T
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori on Sunday announced a spectacular fireworks display at Governor House to celebrate the arrival of the new year In a bid to include the public in the celebrations Kamran Tessori revealed that all five gates of the Governor House will be open to the people for the event We want to share the joy of the new year with everyone, said Governor Tessori He emphasized the importance of collective celebration and unity
The grand event will feature a 40-minute fireworks show, which is set to break an international record, he added Expressing his wishes for the upcoming year Governor Tessori prayed that 2024 brings peace security stability economic growth and welfare for the people of Pakistan The fireworks display, scheduled for December 31, will be a grand spectacle aimed at creating a global record, offering a visual treat to the people of Karachi and beyond Governor Congratulates Newly-Elected Officials of KHA Meanwhile Governor Tessori extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected officials of the Karachi Hockey Association (KHA), including President Khawaja Izhar-ul-Hassan, Senior Vice President Syed Latafat Hussain Shah, General Secretary Abu Zar Umrao, and others
global exhibitions around the world Mian Atiq-ur-Rehman and Riaz Ahmed said that Pakistani hand-knotted carpets are in demand worldwide; however, due to ineffective marketing, the carpet industry is missing out on millions of dollars in exports They appealed to the government to formulate a policy for organizing single-country exhibitions in collaboration with stakeholders They emphasized that increasing foreign exchange reserves is essential in the current situation, and this target can easily be achieved through participation in such international exhibitions They expressed gratitude for TDAP s support for such events but requested that greater attention be focused on the challenges facing the hand-knotted carpet industry
The much-anticipated unveiling of the ALFAAZZ Resource Center took place at the National Incubation Center Karachi, marking a significant milestone in education and innovation The event brought together prominent dignitaries including Dr Vali Uddin Vice Chancellor of UIT; Mr Ali Bijani Manager School Support at Aga Khan University Examination Board; and Ms Nida Athar, Director, Innoventures Global Pvt Ltd Themed "Threads of Infinity: Exploring the Fabric of Learning and Innovation " the event highlighted the center s mission to foster continuous learning through cutting-edge technology and creativity Featuring advanced Augmented and Virtual Reality stations coding tutorials STEM activities and artistic spaces, the ALFAAZZ Resource Center aims to revolutionize teaching and learning methodologies while equipping learners for the challenges of the future Speaking at the event Ms Farhat Dairkee CEO of ALFAAZZ spoke on the ideals of Quaid e Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah that inspired and spurred her intent to establish the resource center
Renowned beautician and director of Spotlight Salon & Studio, Asma Naz, graces the runway-style fashion show alongside the famous model Mathira PR
Nasir Ansari, CEO MILE STONE Green City
MUSADIK
STRESSES DIALOGUE FOR NATIONAL UNIT Y WHILE SEPARATING CRIMINAL CASES FROM POLITICS
Quaid-e-A zam posters put on display across Tehranin a show of solidarit y
g FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS, GESTURE MADE IN SUPPORT OF COMMEMORATIVE EVENTS BEING ORGANISED BY ECO CULTURAL INSTITUTE
of Iranian capital city – Tehran, put on display posters of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah at prominent locations to show solidarity with Pakistan on the 148th birth anniversary of father of the nation This gesture was made in support of the commemorative events being organised by the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) Cultural Institute (ECI) based in Tehran The ECI, in collaboration with the Urdu Language Student Union of Iran and the Embassy of Pakistan in Tehran, arranged the week-long celebrations, a press release said Dr Saad S Khan President of the ECI and a Pakistani historian-turned-diplomat delivered remarks highlighting Quaid-e-Azam s visionary leadership He emphasised Jinnah s pivotal role in uniting the Muslim community and guiding it toward freedom Dr Khan also referenced Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei’s praise for Quaid-e-Azam, underscoring his lasting legacy as a leader of faith and resolve The event was attended by several notable dignitaries including Ismat Hassan Sial Deputy Head of Mission of Pakistan in Tehran Seydou Zataou Aly Ambassador of Niger to Tehran, and the Deputy Head of the Tajikistan Mission Scholars such as Dr Zahid Munir Amir, Head of the Pakistan Studies Chair at the University of Tehran Dr Ali Bayat Dr Ali Kavousi Nejad Dr Rashid Naqvi and Mr Hasan Naqvi also spoke at the occasion
The ECI s celebrations included essay competitions in Urdu Turkish and Persian patriotic song performances dedicated to Quaid-e-Azam, live sketching of the leader, and the launch of a documentary on the philosophy of Iqbal
This event underscores the enduring cultural and historical ties between Iran and Pakistan and commemorates the visionary leadership of one of the founding fathers of Pakistan
Diesel, kerosene oil prices likely to go up on New Year
On
Agreement largely reached between Kurram warring par ties: Barrister S aif
PESHAWAR S TA F F R E P O R T
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Adviser on In-
formation Barrister Dr Saif announced that consensus has been largely reached between warring parties involved in the Kurram dispute In a statement, Barrister Saif confirmed that negotiations in Kohat lasted late into the night
Both parties have agreed on major points though one side has requested a two-day pause for consultation with their community He added that the Sunni faction had sought time to consult their leaders and public, which the Jirga had granted The discussions would resume on
Tuesday, following which the agreement would be finalised and signed Dr Saif reiterated that per the Apex Committee s decision the removal of bunkers and weapons would be ensured The provincial government was committed to a sustainable resolution for the century-old conflict He further stated that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and the Grand Jirga’s efforts have brought the resolution close to fruition The Kohat Commissioner and the entire administration are working sincerely toward ending the dispute and establishing lasting peace ” Barrister Saif also noted that the Chief Minister has allocated his helicopter for relief
operations, facilitating the delivery of medicines and providing aerial services to the affected population MWM Sit-ins across Karachi continue Activists and leaders of the mainstream religiopolitical party, Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM), have said they will continue sit-ins across Karachi after talks with police and city officials failed on Sunday The sit-ins which have been ongoing for six days blocked major roads to protest the Parachinar killings, demanding measures including reopening a road in Parachinar, closed for 90 days, to ensure access to essential food and medicines according to traffic police and organisers
Iran arrests one after suicide blast kills police officer
S TA F F R E P O R T
Officials have confirmed the detection of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in environmental samples collected from sewage lines across 26 districts in Pakistan raising alarms about the ongoing fight against the disease
According to the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio
Karachi environmental samples tested positive for poliovirus in Central, East, Keamari, Korangi, Malir, and South districts
Other areas where poliovirus was detected include Mirpur Khas
Shaheed Benazirabad Sujawal
Sukkur Chaman Loralai Pishin
Quetta Zhob Islamabad Bajour
Peshawar Dera Ghazi Khan Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi
bringing the total number of cases this year to 67 The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) confirmed that the latest wild poliovirus type 1 cases were reported in Kashmore Sindh and Tank Khyber Pakhtunkhwa This year Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has reported 19 cases Balochistan 27 Sindh 19 Punjab one, and Islamabad one Tank alone has recorded four cases, while Kashmore has reported two Health officials have emphasized the need for strengthened surveillance immunization campaigns and public awareness to combat the ongoing threat posed by poliovirus Poliovirus
Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH), the virus was identified in sewage samples collected from several locations including Hyderabad Jacobabad Jamshoro and Kambar In
The presence of the virus in environmental samples highlights the persistent threat of polio in these regions despite ongoing eradication efforts Meanwhile Pakistan has reported two additional polio cases,
