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F .theasiantelegraph.net President lauds the US invites Pakistan achievements of FIO to climate summit Federal Insurance Ombudsman presents Biden’s aide on climate said in the letter dated April 17 that the summit will bring Annual Report-2020 to President together the world’s major economy ISLAMABAD WASHINGTON President Dr Arif Alvi has directed Federal The United States has invited Pakistan Insurance Ombudsman (FIO), Dr Muhammad Khawar Jamil, to ensure protection of the inter- which has been convened by President est of insurance policyholders and provide them toJoe ‘Virtual Biden onLeaders’ April 22-23. Summit However, on Climate’ the prompt justice against the maladministration of invitation has been extended to Special the Insurance Industry. The President gave these Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on directions at a meeting with FIO, who called on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam by him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. US climate envoy John Kerry. “On behalf The FIO presented Annual Report to the President of the President of the United States, it is my pleasure to invite you to be a for the year 2020 and briefed him about the distinguished speaker at the virtual achievements of his organization. He highlighted Summit on Climate. We would like to ask that FIO, on the directions of the President of you to join other Ministers and leaders Pakistan, had provided monetary relief amounting on April 22 in a discussion focused to Rs. 2.13 Billion to the aggrieved policy holders on climate adaptation and resilience,” during 2020. He informed that FIO received 3,107 Kerry stated in a letter addressed to complaints from policy holders against 2,441 dur- Aslam. Biden ignored Pakistan at his ing 2019. He apprised that 2,427 complaints had FM UAE, Iran Visit government’s first summit on climate- been processed while 2,183 had been disposed of change to be held on April 22 and 23. in the same year. The FIO stated that despite the The US president has invited 40 heads FM Qureshi concludes UAE visit, arrives in Tehran of state and government, including pandemic his organizations continued to provide leaders of India, Bangladesh and services to protect the rights of policy holders by Bhutan – from the South Asian region. disposing of 2,183 complaints and providing Rs. for diplomatic deliberations with Iranian leadership Reacting to the country’s exclusion, 2.13 Billion as monetary relief to the aggrieved Prime Minister Imran Khan had said beneficiaries. Pak appreciates UAE’s continued support, especially its decision to roll-over $2 billion: FO that he was puzzled at the cacophony The President lauded the achievements of FIO and ISLAMABAD cess and the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. They and manpower. Foreign Minister Qureshi outlined over Pakistan not being invited by advised him to create awareness among people Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi arrived will also deliberate on strengthening regional co- his plans for showcasing the history as well as the the US to the climate summit. “My about the role of FIO in providing prompt and in Tehran this afternoon (Tuesday) on a three-day operation under the umbrella of Economic Coop- future potential of Pakistan-UAE cooperation at govt’s environment policies are driven free-of-cost justice to aggrieved insurance policy - eration Organization. Earlier while concluding his EXPO 2020 Dubai in October 2021. The Foreign solely by our commitment to our holders against maladministration of insurance ership on bilateral relations and regional situa- visit to UAE, Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Ministers also discussed ways to provide fresh future generations of a clean & green Pakistan to mitigate the impact of companies. He directed the FIO to increase the officialtion. He visit was to warmly Iran for received talks with by the Iranian Iranian Foreign lead Mahmood Qureshi and his delegation was warmly impetus to existing Pakistan – UAE ties. In this Minister’s Advisor and Director General at the climate change,” he wrote on his official outreach of the Insurance Ombudsman so as received by Foreign Minister, His Highness Sheikh regard, they agreed to facilitate Ministerial level Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Syed Rasool Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the UAE’s Minis- visits from both sides. Foreign Minister Qureshi Twitter handle. The premier referred maximum people could benefit from its services. Mousavi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Rahim to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) The FIO requested the President to inaugurate the try of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi, yesterday eve- lauded the positive contribution of Pakistani Di- ning. The two Foreign Ministers held detailed dis- aspora in the UAE towards the development and government’s major initiatives aimed regional office at Quetta during the first week of Embassy at Imam Khomeini International Air- cussions after the delegation level talks. Foreign progress of both countries. He emphasized the at environment protection, including May and the President acceded to his request. He Hayatport, Tehran. Qureshi During and senior the visit, officers the Foreign at the Pakistani Minister Minister Qureshi appreciated the UAE’s progress need for nurturing and strengthening people-to- the Green Pakistan, 10 Billion Tree assured FIO of his full support and cooperation in will meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, his people linkages, as well as removing impediments Tsunami, nature-based solutions and the performance of his duties and responsibilities. Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif and other senior attributed this achievement to the sagacious and that hamper travel between the two countries. Iranian leadership. Bilateral cooperation, promo- andvisionary development leadership over of thethe lastnation. five Foreign decades. Min He- Foreign Minister Qureshi thanked the UAE for its tion of economic linkages and other matters of ister Abdullah thanked him and acknowledged continued support and cooperation bilaterally, cleaning up rivers etc. VoM mutual interest, including regional situation and the valuable role played by Pakistani Diaspora as well as at the international fora. Pronouncing international affairs will be discussed in these in the UAE’s growth and prosperity. The Foreign the UAE’s decision to roll-over the USD 2 billion meetings. The two foreign ministers will hold - deposit by the Abu Dhabi Fund, Foreign Minister delegation-level talks on the entire spectrum of ther strengthen cordial relations between the two - bilateral relations with focus on further deepen- Ministerscountries. reaffirmedThey reviewed their the mutual entire desire gamut to of fur bi- tend every possible support to Pakistan. Foreign lateral relations, discussing ways to enhance co- AbdullahMinister Qureshi affirmed thanked the UAE’s his counterpart, commitment under to ex- will discuss regional security situation including operation in diverse areas including trade, invest- ingthe latest cooperation developments in diverse in the fields. Afghan The Peace two sides Pro- ment, infrastructure, energy, technology, tourism scoring that the decision reflected the warm and NA Session brotherly tiesCurrency between the twoMalpractices countries. VoM NA Session, House strongly condemned publication of Shehryar Afridi, US keeps India, 10 others in the currency blasphemous caricature KSA envoy Vow to practices monitoring list be held on Friday at 11 in the morning. While on the other further deepen the Other countries named by the De- will add and retain on the Monitoring List Cabinet approves centralized database for basic hand, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry partment of Treasury in its quarterly any major US trading partner that accounts food items Fawad Hussain has said the government is working on in- report to Congress, the first under for a large and disproportionate share of the PESHAWAR troducing electronic voting machine and to grant overseas cordiality of ties the Biden administration, are Ire- A resolution strongly condemning the publication of blas- Pakistanis internet based voting rights. land, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand has not met two of the three criteria from the phemous caricatures of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muham- - and Mexico overall2015 Act, US ittrade said. deficit In its evenreport, if that the economyTreasury mad Sallallaho Alaihe Wa Sallam Khatam-un-Nabiyeen in lamabad this evening about the decisions taken in the WASHINGTION said that a number of economies have con- French Magazine Charlie Hebdo was tabled in the National Hefederal was cabinet,briefing thewhich media met at with the ParliamentPrime Minister House Imran in Is The United States placed 11 countries, in- ducted foreign exchange market interven- Assembly today (Tuesday). Member National Assembly Khan in the chair, in Islamabad today (Tuesday). Chaudhry cluding India, China, Japan, South Korea, tion in a persistent, one-sided manner. “Over Amjad Ali Khan tabled the resolution which strongly con- Fawad Hussain said Prime Minister Imran Khan is very Germany and Italy in the currency practices the four quarters through December 2020, demned the blasphemous acts against the Prophet of Islam. keen about electoral reforms in the country and it was in- monitoring list. Other countries named by The resolution said that the French Magazine published formed that Pakistan has completed the technological part the Department of Treasury in its quarterly blasphemous caricatures of the Prophet of the Islam for fiveintervened major USin tradingthe foreign partners exchange — Vietnam, market - administration, are Ireland, Malaysia, Singa- Switzerland,in a sustained, Taiwan, asymmetric India andmanner Singapore with the — demnation from the Muslims around the globe, a deliber- ofhave the been EVM, imported while its from rules abroad. are yet Theto be Minister decided. said He Intesaid- ISLAMABAD reportpore, Thailand to Congress, and Mexico. the first All under except the Ireland Biden effect of weakening their currencies,” it al- theate firstattempt time has in 2015 once andagain despite been strongmade toreaction harm religiousand con besides,rior Minister manufacturing Sheikh Rashid of EVM Ahmad in Pakistan, and Minister two machines for Reli- Chairman of Parliamentary Committee on Kash- and Mexico were covered in the December harmony and peace at the international level. The resolu- gious Affair and Interfaith Harmony Dr Noor-ul-Haq Qadri mir Shehryar Khan Afridi called on the Ambassa- 2020 report, which was under the previous tion said encouragement of elements involved in hurting briefed the cabinet about talks with the banned Tehreek-e- dor of Saudi Arabia, Mr Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki Trump administration. As directed by Con- leged.two other Three thresholds of these economies established — Vietnam,by Trea- sentiments of millions of Muslims by the French President Labbaik Pakistan. and exchanged views on matters of mutual in- gress, Treasury has established a monitor- Switzerland,sury to identify and potentially Taiwan — unfair exceeded currency the in the name of freedom of expression is regrettable. terest. Chairman Kashmir Committee Shehryar ing list of major trading partners that merit practices or excessive external imbalances, The resolution demanded of the House to have a detailed Khan Afridi also extended congratulations to close attention to their currency practices which could impede the US growth or harm discussion on the expulsion of French Ambassador from the Royal family of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on and macroeconomic policies. An economy the country. All the European countries, especially France, the birth of son of Crown Prince Mohammad bin meeting two of the three criteria in the 2015 the four quarters through December 2020, a should be apprised of the seriousness of the matter. All Salman. Act is placed on the Monitoring List. These USnumber workers of economies and firms, have the report experienced said. Over sig- Muslim countries should be taken on board to collectively Shehryar Khan Afridi lauded the role played by are a persistent, one-sided intervention raise the issue of sanctity of the Prophethood at interna- the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in taking care of in the foreign exchange market that occur surpluses as the pandemic drastically affect- tional forums. It said deciding international matters is the Pakistanis living in Saudi Arabia in this age of when net purchases of foreign currency are nificanted global expansions trade, including in their China, current Taiwan account and the sole prerogative of the state and no individual group pandemic. Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki conducted repeatedly, in at least six out of Singapore, while other economies, includ- or party can exert pressure in this regard. The resolution expressed gratitude to the Chairman Kashmir 12 months, and these net purchases total asked the provincial governments to allocate special places Committee and said that Pakistan and Kingdom at least two per cent of an economy’s Gross large current account surpluses, which al- in all districts for protest so that daily life of people is not of Saudi Arabia would take their bilateral rela- Domestic Product (GDP) over a 12-month inglowed Germany for external and Vietnam asset stock have positionsmaintained to affected. Members of the National Assembly started debate tions to new highs. Report by Sohail Majeed Butt period. As a further measure, the Treasury widen further, it added. on the resolution that will continue in its next session to Global Climate Change Energy Market Carbon emissions, IEA issues dire warning, says Oil prices rise to over one-month highs on weak pandemic recovery anything but sustainable dollar face an even worse situation in 2022,” he to cap the temperature rise at 1.5 degrees Almost 200 countries ratified the added. The report comes at a time when Celsius. It remains a key focus ahead of Oil was underpinned by a weak U.S. Paris climate accord at COP21 in policymakers are under intensifying pres- COP26, although some climate scientists dollar, which makes oil cheaper for 2015, agreeing to limit the increase sure to deliver on promises made as part of now believe that achieving the 1.5 degrees buyers using other currencies in the planet’s average temperature the Paris Agreement. Celsius target is already “virtually impossi- TOKYO to “well below” 2 degrees Celsius President Joe Biden will hold a virtual ble.” “During the Covid crisis, many people Oil rose to $68 a barrel and hit its above pre-industrial levels and to summit to discuss the climate emergency thought human beings would be much more highest in a month on Tuesday, pursue efforts to cap the tempera- with dozens of world leaders this week, environmentally directed, governments are supported by disruption to Libyan ture rise at 1.5 degrees Celsius with global talks due to be held in Glasgow, making one pledge after another, and as a exports and expectations of a drop LONDON Scotland in early November. Yet, even as result we would have a cleaner energy sys- in U.S. crude inventories, though Energy-related carbon emissions are on politicians and business leaders publicly ac- tem. But the numbers show a completely rising coronavirus cases in Asia track to surge by nearly 5% this year, ac- knowledge the necessity of transitioning to a different picture,” Birol told CNBC’s “Street limited gains. Libya declared force cording to the International Energy Agency, low-carbon society, hopes of limiting global Signs Europe.” majeure on exports from the port of reversing most of last year’s decline caused “There is a growing gap between what Hariga and said it could extend the by the coronavirus pandemic. In the IEA’s the governments say, what we read in the measure to other facilities, citing a Global Energy Review 2021, published warming200 countries — and ratified meeting the Paris a crucial climate global ac- papers and so on, and what is happening budget dispute. Hariga is scheduled navirus cases have exceeded 141.7 ness continues to offer support Tuesday, the group said global energy- targetcord at — COP21 are quickly in 2015, deteriorating. agreeing to limit Almost the in real life.” Birol said policymakers must to load about 180,000 barrels per million and a surge in infections in to the commodities complex,” ING related CO2 emissions were on course to increase in the planet’s average temperature make clear commitments on how they day (bpd) in April. Brent crude was India, the world’s third-biggest oil Economics said in a report. Brent rise to 33 billion metric tons this year, up to “well below” 2 degrees Celsius above plan to substantially reduce emissions at the up 20 cents, or 0.3%, at $67.25 a importer, has dampened optimism has recovered from historic lows 1.5 billion metric tons from 2020 levels. It pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts Leaders’ Summit on Climate on Thursday barrel after hitting its highest since for a sustained demand recovery. hit last year, helped by some demand would reflect the single largest increase in and Friday. He warned that while the IEA’s March 18 at $68.08. U.S. West Texas Elsewhere in Asia, the Philippines recovery and huge output cuts by emissions since 2010 and the second-largest 2021 emissions forecast was “disappoint- Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 2 has is experiencing a second wave the Organization of the Petroleum increase in history.“This is a dire warning ing,” the absence of immediate action would cents to trade at $63.40 per barrel. of infections. Hong Kong will sus- Exporting Countries (OPEC) and that the economic recovery from the Covid mean next year’s outlook is likely to be “even “Follow-through buying is pushing pend flights from India, Pakistan allies, together known as OPEC+. crisis is currently anything but sustainable worse.”The IEA said this year’s rise in car- and the Philippines from April In focus later will be the American for our climate,” Fatih Birol, executive direc- bon emissions would likely be driven by a - 20 for two weeks. Oil was under- Petroleum Institute’s report on tor of the IEA, said in the report. “Unless gov- resurgence in coal use in the power sec- pricesdiate upside up further,” potential said could Tamas be Varga lim- pinned by a weak U.S. dollar, which U.S. supplies, due at 2030 GMT. U.S. ernments around the world move rapidly tor, with more than 80% of the projected atited oil by broker the relentless PVM. “But march the immehigher makes oil cheaper for buyers using crude stockpiles are expected to to start cutting emissions, we are likely to growth set to come from Asia, led by China. in infection rates.” Worldwide coro- other currencies. “U.S. dollar weak- drop by 2.9 million barrels. Wednesday, April 21, 2021

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Editor-in-Chief: Amna Malik Biden’s ‘New Plan’: Challenges and Options for Pakistan Editor: Muhammad Hassam Assistant Editor:Syed Mushahid Naqvi ing the narrative that Biden is making a major mistake Phone: + 92 51 2814017 Offce # 407/408, 4th Floor, Evacuee safe havens to the terrorists. For sustainable peace in on Afghanistan by announcing to end America’s longest acrossPakistan Pakistan. and the Volatile region asAfghanistan a whole, it hasis essential been providing to have war. It is pertinent to mention that the US has a history Trust, Agha Khan Road, F-5/1 Islamabad peace and stability in Afghanistan. Peace in Afghanistan of playing “dual games”, Biden has already disrespected is only possible with the success of the ongoing Afghan Doha Agreement and more can be expected from him as Peace Process. Although the new date given by the Biden he was also part of the Obama administration when the administration for the withdrawal from Afghanistan is dis- US did not fulfill its commitment to completely withdraw Pakistan`s Paradox of Elite regard to the agreement which was signed by the Trump from Afghanistan by 2014. The US has always accused Zeeshan Shoukat administration, it shows that the new administration of Pakistan of supporting a non-existent Ho Chi Minh trail the US have also agreed to pull out the forces from the along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. In the US war Privilege he great power politics have wreaked havoc in war-torn country. Addressing the world from the White - theT South Asian Region particularly in Pakistan and House, the US president Joe Biden has declared it was he latest UN Development Program’s (UNDP) National Human Development Afghanistan. Pakistan has suffered the most, after time “to end America’s longest war” as he announced that againstmoved Vietnam,supplies Cambodiaand arms wasthrough officially the anorthern neutral coun part Report (NHDR) left everyone flabbergasted. The report, released last week, Afghanistan, from the so-called US-led war on terror nearly 10,000 US and NATO troops would return home tryof the in country,Vietnam whichWar, though was part North of the Vietnamese Ho Chi Minh troops trail threw shade on rampant inequality and blatant elite privilege in Pakistan. in the region. During the last two decades, more than from Afghanistan in the run-up to the 20th anniversary of According to its startling revelations, economic privileges bequeathed to 70,000 Pakistanis lost their lives while an economic 9/11. In response to Biden’s announcement, the Foreign Cambodia. In March 1969, the then US President Nixon Pakistan`s hedonistic elite mercilessly consume an estimated 17.4 billion blow of $125 billion jeopardized the prospects of na- Office of Pakistan has stated that it is important that the thatbegan stretched approving from secret Vietnam bombings to neighboring of suspected Laos commu and- dollars or approximately 6pc of economic pie. The significant recipient of tional economic growth. It has not only won war against withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan coincides nist base camps and supply zones in Cambodia as part of the privileges was found to be the country’s corporate conglomerates, which usurped an terrorism but also played a significant role for initiating with the progress in the Afghan Peace Process. Pakistan “Operation Menu.” Cambodia wasn’t the first neutral coun- Testimated $4.7bn in privileges. The second and third-highest beneficiaries of privileges Afghan Peace Process. Although, the recent statement supports the principle of responsible troop withdrawal in were found to be the country’s richest 1 percent, who collectively own 9 percent of the by the US President is in line with the peace process but coordination with Afghan stakeholders. Despite the con- the US began secretly bombing Laos in 1964, and would country’s overall income, and the feudal land-owning class, which constitutes 1.1 percent Biden’s disregard for the Doha Agreement and announce- sensus on withdrawal with the new date, Pakistan should tryeventually to be targeted leave it theby the most US heavily during bombed the Vietnam country War— per of the population but owns 22 percent of all arable farmland.These findings unravel the ment of a new date for the complete withdrawal from remain cautious about the US administration’s plans, and capita in the world. The US bombings did little to break troika of tyranny in post-colonial states that is brazen nexus between power, policy and Afghanistan should be taken cautiously by the country’s the spoilers of the peace process particularly India should corporate world. In plain words, structural economic disparities are perpetuated by tacit Political and Military leadership. Pakistan has been fight- also be kept under strong observation. Whether the US consequences on the Cambodian government and its na- understanding between status-quo powers who manage to usurp substantially more ing the so-called war on terror led by the US since 2001. forces leave Afghanistan or not, the US interests in the thetion. resistance History can of thebe aVietnamese guide in such but tricky they had issues. devastating Though than their fair share through informal political bargains, financial shenanigans, partisan Thousands of citizens including security personnel lost region will not change especially containment of China, Pakistan is not like Cambodia, it has a powerful military policy-making to serve cronies and lack of accountability. Crony capitalism in developing their lives, and besides the destruction of infrastructure to keep a close eye on Russia and check on Pakistan. and also possesses nuclear weapons, therefore, the US world thus traps middle and lower class in vicious income inequality trap by bestowing all Pakistan has faced an economic loss of billions of dol- Moreover, the US has developed a strategic partnership cannot press Pakistan for the alleged support to Afghan economic opportunities to already obscenely rich class. The tax policies, subsidy policies, lars. The frequent terrorist attacks including the suicide with India, therefore, it will also strive to serve the Indian Taliban in a way it acted against Cambodia. discretionary prices of exports or imports, preferential access to capital, land, services, bombing deteriorated the law and order situation in the interests in Afghanistan. Peace and stability in Afghanistan infrastructure, lucrative public and private contracts are seized by filthy rich segments country which resulted in a significant decline of Foreign do not suit India as it is operating terror launch pads in The author is an MPhil Scholar from NUML through informal “Charter of Plunder”. Since more economic power is directly proportional Direct Investment (FDI) in Pakistan. Finally, after the un- the country to support and sponsor terrorism in Pakistan. Islamabad. He writes on Indo-Pak Ties, Geopolitics to appropriation of more political power, hence these already privileged segments ma- equalled sacrifices of Pakistan’s valiant soldiers and resil- In recent months, Western media outlets especially the of Indian Ocean, Evolving Dynamics in the Middle noeuvre state machinery and policy-making apparatus to perpetually milk the sacrosanct ient Pakistani nation have established peace and stability US-based media companies like CNN have been propagat- East, and Global Power Politics. resources. These shadowy powers hamper the implementation of economic reforms and sustainable development agendas in Pakistan. To further advance their enterprises, these elite goliaths manage to win elections and then stall public enterprises, state ventures to Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect The Asian Telegraph point-of-view disproportionately benefit their businesses. The systemic annihilation of Pakistan railway to boost personal transport businesses is one of the murky case studies of elite plunder. To break this systemic hijacking of state by entrenched elite powers, the best remedy is people centric macro-economic model which can improve country`s Human Development Index Today in History (HDI) concomitant with targeted spending and gradual elimination of elite privileges. On Biden`s Bid to End April 21, 2016 - Legendary musician and megawatt star Prince dies at 57 n the morning of April 21, 2016, secutive weeks at number one on the Go Crazy”), won the Grammy Award film of the same name, which starred Forever War Prince, the polymathic musician Billboard 200 chart, spawned two hit for Best Rock Performance, and sold Prince in a loosely autobiographical Owho created more than 30 al- singles (“When Doves Cry” and “Let’s 13 million copies. The accompanying role, won the Academy Award for Best mid roller-coaster ride of US-Taliban peace talks, US President undertook bums and won seven Grammy Awards Original Song Score. Both the album colossal strategic volte-face. Biden outlined that all US troops will leave over a 40-year career, is found dead in and the film’s success launched Prince the Afghan soil prior to 25th anniversary of 9/11 attacks, hinting at or- Paisley Park, his Minnesota home and to international stardom. Throughout derly drawdown of troops even before 1st May. This daring move depicts recording studio. The cause of death his career, Prince defied and tran- Biden administration`s resolve to respect agreement signed by Trump was an accidental overdose of the scended genre. His music fused ele- administration. The sudden decision to remove all military footprint from opioid fentanyl. He was 57 years old. ments of funk, R&B, rock and pop Afghanistan indicates fluctuating threat picture in American military establishment. US In the hours and days after the news into what later became known as SecretaryA of State Antony Blinkon on Sunday admitted that Washington needs to divert broke, fans around the world mourned Minneapolis Sound. Famously, he it`s resources towards other substantial threats such as China and Pandemic. The move his death with massive memorials. In a usually played all of the instruments was garnered mixed reactions worldwide but whipped frenzied speculation in India. The statement, President Obama said, “Few beleaguered Indian military czar Bipin Rawat categorically expressed his displeasure artists have influenced the sound and (ranging from piano to electric guitar while resorting to baseless fabrications. India was indulged in sabotage and malicious trajectory of popular music more dis- onto finger his albums cymbals) himself—including on For You. He also 27 activities under veneer of development investments. The strategic investments in certain tinctly, or touched quite so many peo- toured frequently and was known as infrastructure projects, particularly dams, were aimed at strangulating Pakistan through ple with their talent.” Prince Rogers an especially electrifying live per- water terrorism and proliferation of proxy arms.Henry Kissinger has been proved right Nelson was born on June 7, 1958, in former. In the years before his death, once again as he shrewdly stated; “America has no permanent friends or foes, only inter- Minneapolis, to musicians Mattie Shaw Prince had been taking prescription ests”. It`s naïve to predict the future of Afghan endgame at this stage but American half- and John Nelson. As a teenager, Prince pain medication for chronic hip pain. baked withdrawal categorically illustrated that India is the fraught strategic looser in this played in bands with his friends. In It is believed he was struggling with grand chessboard of Afghan Peace Process. While the concerns regarding resurgence of 1978, when he was 20, he signed his opioid addiction. He still recorded and internal grinding civil war are genuine, Biden Administration must pay heed to Pakistan`s first record contract with Warner performed during this time. His last scramble for orderly pullout of troops. The future of stable, prosperous and peaceful Bros., and that same year released his album, Hit n Run Phase Two, was re- Afghanistan resides in constructive engagement of intra-Afghan actors. The time will tell debut album, For You. Nearly every leased in December 2015. In October whether complete troop withdrawal was constructive strategy or costly military blunder. year after that he released a new 2016, six months after Prince’s death, The ironical inference of Biden`s decision depicts ‘graceful retrenchment’ of declining album. Prince’s sixth studio album, Paisley Park opened to the public for superpower. The treacherous terrains of Afghanistan once again firmly established that Purple Rain, released in 1984, was a tours. In 2016, Prince’s estate sold it’s the perpetual ‘Graveyard of Empires’. high point. The album spent 24 con- more albums than any other artist that

The author is an independent researcher and Karachi, Pakistan tests Hualong-One Alumnus of Quaid-e-Azam University. His Zendaya & Carey Mulligan lead MTV Movie & areas of interest are International Relations, nuclear power generator, developed by China Geo-politics and Maritime Affairs BEIJING One nuclear generator was connected TV Awards nominations The No 3 Hualong-One nuclear re- to Pakistani grid on March 18. Each RIYADH tle it out against Emily in actor at Karachi, Pakistan, which is Hualong-One unit would generate Zendaya, Carey Mulligan, Paris, Cobra Kai, The Boys developed by China, has completed about 10 gigawatt hours (GWh) of Daniel Kaluuya, Sacha Baron a cold functional test on Tuesday, electricity, sufficient to support the Cohen, and the late Chadwick Corrin’s performance as marking the nuclear generating needs of one million local people. Boseman will fight for the andthe late WandaVision. Princess Diana Emma in unit has entered the commissioning Hualong-One Karachi unit 2 and 3 The Crown has earned her a stage following installation, the China belong to China’s exports of its self- Best Performance in a Show National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) developed third-generation advanced topThe honourstars areat the in 2021the MTVrun- nomination, and she is joined announced. nuclear technology. The generator is Moviening for & TV Best Awards. Performance by Anya Taylor-Joy for The The completion of cold functional test designed to have a life-span of 60 in a Movie, with Zendaya Queen’s Gambit, as well as paves way for thermal testing and years. recognised for Malcolm & Elliot Page, Elizabeth Olsen fuel loading before Marie, Carey for Promising and Michaela Coel. The iconic being connecting Young Woman, Chadwick for Best Kiss award will go to ei- to the country’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, ther Chase Stokes & Madelyn power grid. The Daniel for Judas and the Black Cline for Outer Banks, Jodie successful test was Messiah, and Sacha for The Comer & Sandra Oh for Killing reviewed by the Trial of the Chicago 7. Eve, Lily Collins & Lucas Pakistan Nuclear Oscar nominated films Judas Bravo for Emily in Paris, Regulatory and the Black Messiah and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan & Authority (PNRA) Promising Young Woman are Jaren Lewison for Never Have and the Pakistan up for the Best Movie hon- I Ever or Bridgerton’s Rege- Atomic Energy our, alongside Soul, To All the Jean Page & Phoebe Dynevor. Commission Boys: Always and Forever, and (PAEC), according Borat Subsequent Moviefilm. Awards will take place on 16 to the CNNC. In the Best Show cate- TheMay 2021at the MTVPalladium Movie in & Los TV The No 2 Hualong- gory Bridgerton will bat- Angeles.

Covid contracts and accusations of ‘chumocracy’ CALIFORNIA officials. It has said it fully recognises the “im- worth £120m in total. The Sunday Times goes correct standard. A Spanish businessman acted demic. The Department of Health and Social When the coronavirus pandemic hit in 2020, portance of transparency” and the protection of on to report in November that the same man, as a go-between to secure protective garments Care tells the BBC that 1.12 million masks had rising global demand for personal protective health and social care staff during the pandemic then a former Tory councillor, was awarded a for NHS staff in the coronavirus pandemic and been withdrawn because they did not meet equipment (PPE) led to shortages and a scram- “often meant having to award contracts at speed further £156m to provide gowns and masks was paid $28m (£21m) in UK taxpayer cash, the the right safety standards. The distribution of ble for supplies for NHS workers.Because of to secure the vital supplies”. and bought a £1.5m Cotswold mansion with BBC reports. The Times says a report revealed some gloves was also suspended because they this, the UK government began awarding PPE Here you can catch up on some of the coverage: the proceeds. may not have met technical requirements. The contracts under an emergency procedure in 2020 August buy billions of pounds of PPE from companies medicines regulator announces it is investigat- which deals were handed directly to companies May Fifty million masks are withdrawn because of thatwho ministershad political set contactsup a VIP withfast-track the government channel to ing a £30m Covid contract that was awarded to without competition. Thousands of contracts A healthcare firm, which employs Conservative safety concerns, the BBC finds. The masks were and MPs. a firm owned by a man who used to run a pub - including orders for gowns, gloves and face MP Owen Paterson as a paid consultant, won a bought by the UK government in April as part December near Matt Hancock’s old constituency home in masks - have been awarded to private compa- £133m contract unopposed to produce Covid- of a £252m contract and could not be used be- Millions of hospital gowns that cost £122m West Suffolk and which had no history of medi- nies by the government since then and billions 19 testing kits, the Guardian reveals.State cause they did not meet its specifications. were never used, the BBC reports. They were cal goods. of pounds of public money has been spent. But contracts worth more than £1bn have been November bought at the end of the first lockdown from a March the way these deals have been given to firms has awarded to private companies dealing with The BBC discovers that Britain’s safety watch- supplier which had set up just a month earlier It is revealed that dozens of Covid contracts had led to concerns over a lack of detail about why the pandemic, without offering other firms dog felt political pressure to approve the use and the contract was not opened to competition not been published when Boris Johnson assured particular suppliers were chosen. The govern- the chance to bid for the work, the Guardian of PPE suits, which had not been tested to the due to the exceptional urgency of the corona- MPs they were “on the record for everyone to ment has also been accused of favouring firms reports. virus pandemic. see”.A BBC investigation reveals a former invest- with political connections to the Conservative June 2021 ment banker, who now owns a dog food firm, Party with a “high-priority lane”. Labour says The Financial Times reports that the UK govern- February brokered PPE deals worth £258m between the this lane - an email inbox available to ministers, ment handed contracts worth at least £1.7bn The use of 10 million sterile surgical gowns government and a Hong Kong firm. The work civil servants or MPs and peers - is evidence of to private companies in the previous three is suspended because of concerns over how was likely to have earned her more than £1m. “cronyism and ‘chumocracy’”. But the govern- months, mostly without a competitive tender the items were packaged. The gowns were April ment said recommendations sent to this inbox process. bought for £70m from a US firm in 2020. A Documents uncovered after an apparent admin came from politicians from a range of parties July court rules Matt Hancock acted unlawfully error reveal the role of a former Tory parlia- and all offers go through the same selection The BBC reveals that a Tory councillor received when his department did not reveal details of mentary candidate and party donor in a £100m process, with final decisions taken by expert major PPE contracts to supply face shields contracts it had signed during the Covid pan- government deal to buy PPE. Wednesday, April 21, 2021

www.theasiantelegraph.net Engro Fertilisers’ profit skyrockets to Rs5.7b year amid a huge growth in urea and di-ammonium per share amounted to Rs52.14 during the January- phosphate (DAP) offtake by 3.5 times and 1.8 times March 2021 quarter compared to Rs63.54 in the cor- year-on-year respectively and surge in DAP prices responding period of 2020. Along with the result, the by 27%,” stated a report of Arif Habib Limited. “On company announced an interim cash dividend of Rs60 the other hand, urea prices declined 2% year-on- per share for the nine-month period ended March Real-life Sisters Cast year.” It added that gross margins stood at 39.25% 31, 2021. Net sales were recorded at Rs16.12 billion in 1QCY21 compared to 33.68% in 1QCY20, given a for the quarter under review, which was 15% lower to Star in Netflix ‘The significant jump in urea offtake. Selling and distribu- than Rs18.98 billion in the same quarter of previous tion expenses of the fertiliser producer climbed 73% fiscal year. Arif Habib Limited analysts Tahir Abbas Swimmers’ as they rose from Rs1.1 billion during January-March and Muhammad Iqbal Javaid said net sales fell 15% 2020 to Rs1.8 billion in the first three months of 2021. amid a 13% year-on-year drop in the wellhead price Mari Petroleum’s profit drops 18% to Similarly, administration expenses rose to Rs411.5 for Mari gas field. Meanwhile, oil and gas produc- Rs6.9 billion million in the January-March quarter of current year tion grew 30% and 3% year-on-year respectively. Bureaau Report from Rs358.3 million in the same quarter of last year, Operating expenses of the company increased from KARACHI a growth of 14.8%. Other income of the firm soared Rs3.43 billion during January-March 2020 to Rs3.48 Engro Fertilisers’ profit soared 906% to Rs5.74 bil- over 80% to Rs479.1 million during the quarter under billion in January-March 2021, a rise of nearly 2%. lion in the quarter ended March 31, 2021 owing to review. The company had reported other income of Similarly, exploration and prospecting expenditure a rise in fertiliser consumption and increase in its Rs261.2 million in the same quarter of previous year. stood at Rs947.3 million during the January-March prices. According to a notice sent to the Pakistan “Other income surged owing to higher income from 2021 quarter, down 57.5% compared to Rs2.23 bil- Stock Exchange (PSX) on Monday, the company had financial assets,” the report said. Finance cost plunged lion in the same quarter of 2020. The analysts added reported a profit of Rs570.76 million during the same from Rs1.2 billion during January-March 2020 to that the plunge in exploration cost was attributable quarter of last year. Accordingly, the earnings per Rs269.1 million in January-March 2021, a contraction to lower prospecting expenditures. Other income no- share of the company came in at Rs4.3 during the of 77.8%. ari Petroleum’s profit fell 17.95% to Rs6.96 sedived from Rs239.27 million during January-March January-March 2021 quarter against Rs0.43 in the billion in the quarter ended March 31, 2021 owing to 2020 to just Rs4.97 million in January-March 2021. same period of previous year. Along with the result, exchange rate losses as Pakistani rupee appreciated “Other income plunged by a massive 98% year-on- the company announced an interim cash dividend of by Rs7 against the US dollar in the third quarter of year due to a decline in income from the seismic Rs4 per share. Net sales of the company rose from fiscal year 2020-21. According to a notice sent to the unit,” the analysts pointed out. On the other hand, Rs10.8 billion during January-March 2020 to Rs29.4 Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Monday, the oil ex- finance income contracted 36.8% to Rs846.67 mil- Los Angeles billion during January-March 2021, a rise of 172.8%. ploration firm had reported a profit of Rs8.48 billion lion. Finance income had stood at Rs1.34 billion in Lebanese actresses and real-life sisters, Manal and “Net sales in 1QCY21 ascended by 173% year-on- in the same quarter of 2020. Accordingly, earnings the first quarter of 2020. Nathalie Issa have been cast to play real-life sisters Yusra and Sarah Mardini in Netflix and Working Title’s Saudi Red Sea tourism plan to UAE extends key parts of $13.6bn new drama The Swimmer. The film, which Welsh/ economic support plan until mid-2022 Egyptian filmmaker Sally El Hosaini (My Brother the clinch a $3.7bn green loan Devil) is directing, traces the incredible journey of the Bureaau Report above the Saudi interbank offered rate, tor companies affected by the Mardini sisters who escaped war-torn Syria, dragging RIYADH they said. The company first started Move will help banks offer repercussions of the coronavi- a dinghy of refugees to safety across the Aegean Sea, Saudi Arabia is weeks away from approaching banks for the loan in new loans, Part of wider re- rus pandemic. and made it all the way to the 2016 Rio Olympics. El clinching the first significant funding mid-2019, Bloomberg said. Opening to sponse to pandemic “The extension of the targeted Hosaini co-wrote the script to The Swimmers with Enola package for a key part of Crown Prince tourism is one of the ways Saudi Arabia Bureau Report economic support plan will pro- Holmes scribe Jack Thorne. The Swimmers is set to begin Swiss enterprises eye Mohammed bin Salman’s program intends to diversify the economy away DUBAI vide continuous support from production this week in the U.K. with further shooting to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, from oil. Its other ambitious projects The UAE Central Bank has ex- the financial system for the planned in Belgium and Turkey. Netflix is producing China’s huge market Bloomberg reported. The Red Sea include an entertainment hub near the tended key parts of its 50 bil- sectors adversely affected by with Working Title in the U.K. The Swimmers will go Development Co.’s SR14 billion ($3.7 capital Riyadh, and the new NEOM city lion dirams ($13.6 billion) the pandemic,” said Governor out on Netflix worldwide in 2022. Working Title’s Eric potential: Diplomat billion) loan is set to close with a small in the north-west, which is expected to economic support plan until Khalid Al-Tameemi. Fellner and Tim Bevan are producing the film with Ali Bureaau Report group of local banks including Saudi cost $500 billion to build.The Red Sea mid-2022. “This comes as part of sup- Jaafar and Tim Cole. Oscar-nominated director Stephen JEDDAH National Bank, Banque Saudi Fransi, Development, owned by the Kingdom’s Under this extension, financial port for the recovery phase, Daldry (The Reader, Billy Elliot) is an executive pro- Swiss companies are eying China’s huge Riyad Bank and Saudi British Bank, the sovereign wealth fund, will oversee a institutions will still be able to in line with the Emirates ducer on the project. Alongside the Issa sisters, the market opportunities, particularly after newswire reported, citing people famil- luxury tourism zone equivalent in size benefit from a zero-cost liquid- Central Bank’s mandate to en- cast of The Swimmers includes Ahmed Malek, Matthias the country has successfully controlled iar with the matter. to Belgium. ity facility covered by a guaran- sure Financial and monetary Schweighöfer, Ali Suliman, Kinda Alloush, James Krishna the pandemic, Yves Morath, commercial The deal to help fund the first phase tee of 50 billion dirhams until stability in the Emirates,” Floyd, and Elmi Rashid Elmi. El Hosaini has been a ris- counselor of the Embassy of Switzerland of the development will be a so-called June 30, 2022, it said in a state- he explained. The Targeted ing star since her directing debut My Brother the Devil in China and the head of Swiss Business green loan. The proceeds will be used ment on Tuesday. Economic Support Plan is a premiered at Sundance Film Festival, winning the World Hub China, told the Global Times on to finance environmentally sustainable The extension decision enables comprehensive program that Tuesday. Morath’s comments came investment, the people said, asking not banks to provide new loans and covers all measures taken by to be identified as the information is financing to individual clients, the Central Bank of the United Cinema‘Dancing Cinematography: VoM With the Consumer Products Expo will be held in private. It will have a tenor of 15 years small and medium enterprises Arab Emirates in response to daysHaikou, before South the China’s first China Hainan International Province and an interest rate of about 1 percent (SMEs), and other private sec- the coronavirus pandemic. Stars’ Pros Share Their from May 7-10. Switzerland will at- tend the expo as the only guest country Hopes for Season 30 of honor. Under Chinese government’s Number of AI corporations in China stands 2nd in 2020 master plan to build a free trade port in the whole of Hainan Island, the coun- globally: Industry Report try in 2020 decided to host the China International Consumer Products Expo. Bureaau Report The list of top 10 countries with the most AI compa- innovative application forerunner zones in eight cities, Global products will be duty-free at the BEIJING nies also includes UK, Canada, India and France, which including Beijing, Tianjin, Hangzhou in East China’s event. With a nearly 80,000-square-meter The number of artificial intelligent (AI) corporations hasn’t showed obvious changes in the past four years. Zhejiang Province and Guangzhou in South China’s exhibition hall, the expo is expected to at- in China stands at the second place in the world in Wei Liang, deputy head of CAICT, noted at the summit Guangdong Province. The AI industry value in the tract more than 1,200 global exhibitors. 2020, next after the US, according to an annual global that Chinese governments promoted the development world reached $156.5 billion in 2020, a 12.3 percent About 40 Swiss companies, including AI industry map published by China Academy of of AI industry and the fusion of technologies and social rise year-on-year, slower than the growth rate in 2019 a wide range of brands from Swatch to Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) and economic development by setting up forerunner Appenzeller Bier, will attend the event. at a summit held in East China’s Shandong on Monday. and experimental zones. The Ministry of Industry and volume was $43.4 billion, up 13.75 percent year-on- “Consumers and buyers will come not China has about one quarter of global AI corporations Information Technology has announced to establish AI dueyear toand the beating impact the of globalCOVID-19. pace. China’s AI industrial only from Hainan, but from all over China. in 2020, while the number of AI companies in US ac- So this represents an excellent business counted for 38.3 percent of the total recorded. US opportunity,” Morath said, adding that and China possess absolute competitive advantages since China has handled the coronavirus in the industry. “There is no fundamental gap in AI well, the Chinese market has largely come technologies between the US and China,” Zhang Yi, CEO DUBAI back to normal. This is not the case with of iiMedia Research Institute, told the Global Times Dancing With the Stars’ 30th season may not kick other foreign markets. on Tuesday, adding that China in fact performs better off until later this year, but the professional dancers “Therefore, China offers one of the most than US when it comes to AI fundamental research already have some ideas for how to make the show interesting potential markets world- and industrialization. “bigger and better” than ever! ABC announced last wide for Swiss businesses,” he said. In Zhang said that most Chinese AI firms don’t overplay month that the dance competition show would be re- 2013, China and Switzerland signed a their development of AI technologies and haven’t liter- turning this fall, with Tyra Banks back as host, and Len ally included AI in their business scopes. Chinese tech Goodman, Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno that China reached with a continental companies, internet firms and those big data compa- Tonioli as judges. A premiere date, celebrity contest- FreeEuropean Trade country. Agreement Three (FTA) years - theago, first the nies actually are developing AI. Given this, the gap in ants and pro dancers will be announced at a later date. two sides agreed to work on upgrading the numbers of AI corporations between China and Lindsay Arnold -- who took a season off last year to give the agreement, Morath said. US is not materially important. birth to her baby girl, Sage -- told ET that she’ll defi- nitely say “yes” to coming back as a pro if she gets the call from production. “I have every intention of coming back!” Arnold exclaimed. “I am ready to go, I feel good, I want to dance again, I’m super excited about it. But as you know, us pros don’t really get to decide if we come back. We can say we want to do it, but at the end of the Babar Azam set to break another T20I record Australia’s Ashleigh Barty day, [producers] have to ask us back on the show, which doesn’t happen until the last hour, I swear.” “But that Bureau Report with player-of-the-series award for his on the top with 272 points, followed sees Roland Garros return is my plan. I would love to be back on the show and I HARARE 210 runs at 52.50 in the four-match by India (270) and Australia (267).If cannot wait to get back to dancing,” she continued. “And Pakistan’s all-format captain Babar series. Babar’s captaincy has been on Pakistan win all three matches against as a ‘fresh start’ Azam will aim to become the fastest a constant improvement since last year Zimbabwe, they will gain one point Bureau Report received a bye to the singles sec- and eleventh player overall to score series against Bangladesh. The men and narrow the gap with third ranked MADRID ond round, where she will face I justJameela miss it. So I am soJamil in ... I’m readydefends to do it!”VoM 2000 T20I runs when his side takes in green have won four T20I series Australia to four points. Winning the As former champion Ashleigh Barty one of two Germans, either Laura on Zimbabwe in the three-match T20I (Bangladesh 2-0, Zimbabwe 3-0 and series 2-1, will still keep them to fourth prepares for Roland Garros­ on May Siegemund or Mona Barthel. Demi Lovato amid frozen series commencing from April 21 at South Africa 2-1 at home and 3-1 away position but will cost them two points 30, the Australian brushed off any After Stuttgart she plans to play on the Harare Sports Club. Babar, who against South Africa) besides the 1-1 and take them down to 260. Losing regrets about missing the French clay in Madrid and Rome before yoghurt shop controversy last week was named number-one series draw against England, they are the series 3-0 will demote Pakistan to Open last year. She won her only Roland Garros. She opened her ranked player in the ICC ODI Rankings, yet to lose a single T20I series. fifth spot equal with New Zealand on major singles title in Paris in 2019 clay-court season by reaching the needs 60 more runs to break India’s On the ICC T20I rankings, Pakistan 255 points each. On the contrary, if the but after the 2020 event was post- quarterfinals in Charleston, South have gained two points after the se- hosts win the series or even a single poned to September/October she Carolina, at the start of April. Even T20I runs, which the Indian captain ries win against South Africa and match, they will climb one spot from chose not to attend due to issues though she skipped much of last Viratachieved Kohli in record 56 innings. of fastest Babar to 2000who have consolidated their fourth posi- 12th to 11th in the ICC rankings. related to the pandemic. “It’s a long season, she is ranked No.1 in the has scored 1940 runs at 48.50 in 49 tion with 262 points, with England On the head to head chart, Pakistan time since I’ve played at the French world and won the hard-court innings, will be eyeing to achieve the have won all five bilateral T20I series Open,” she said in Stuttgart on Miami Open which preceded feat in the first T20I against Zimbabwe against Zimbabwe. They have won all Monday, ahead of her first match on Charleston, but she was cagey on Wednesday. 14 T20I matches. Pakistan last visited European clay in almost two years. about her form. Barty, who is from The right-handed Lahore-born bats- Zimbabwe in July 2018, to feature in In her absence the 2020 women’s Queensland, took a break last year man is in sublime form these days, as a tri-nation tournament involving Roland Garros title was won by to avoid travelling during the pan- he struck his maiden T20I hundred in Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Australia. Iga Swiatek. The Polish teenager demic. She has in the past talked Pakistan’s nine-wicket win over South Pakistan beat Australia by six wickets burst onto the tennis scene when of homesickness, and moving be- Africa in the third T20I at SuperSport on 8 July at the Harare Sports Club to she claimed the French crown, de- tween North America and Europe Park on 14 April. He was also awarded win the tournament. feating then world No.6 Sofia Kenin due to the season is keeping her in the final. far from home. “Part and parcel of But Barty said 2021 would be an travelling is being comfortable away Diego Llorente scores equalizer in 87th minute all-round reset. “It’s a fresh start, from home or as comfortable as you a fresh start for everyone at that can be,” she said. “Obviously I’m a Dubai will have 15 permanent members with no rel- he said. “We had big chances in the first half but event.” She made clear that her homebody. I love being at home Jameela Jamil has defended Demi Lovato after the singer launched a tirade against owners of a frozen yogurt shop An 87th-minute headerLIVERPOOL from defender Diego egation. A plane flew overhead trailing a banner didn’t use those. “We will fight for the Champions approach was also practical. “It’s with my family,” she said, adding Llorente gave Leeds United a 1-1 home draw proclaiming “say no to superleague” while the League with all we have. This a point more in the a fresh tournament, and it’s a new that she tries to speak to them as in Los Angeles. The Cool for the Summer star - who has bat- with Liverpool in the Premier League on Monday Liverpool team coach was greeted with fans vent- end. It is always best to win all the games but if opportunity.” The 24-year-old much as possible. “I love what I do. tled drug addiction and an eating disorder - urged officials after the home side staged a protest against the ing their anger. not we have to shake a bit and go again and that Barty and American Jennifer Brady I’m extremely grateful for the op- at The Bigg Chill in Los Angeles to “do better” as she felt breakaway Super League prior to the kickoff. The result left Liverpool sixth on 53 points from is what we will do.” Sadio Mane fired Liverpool crushed American pair Kaitlyn portunity to do what I love in the they were pushing diet culture by making sugar-free and Leeds players came out for their warm-up wear- 32 games, one behind fifth-placed Chelsea who ahead in the 31st minute when he steered the Christian and Sabrina Santamaria current situation in the world.” low-calorie foods prominent, and she vowed to shame ing shirts emblazoned with the slogan “Earn It” have a game in hand and two adrift of West Ham ball into an empty net from 15 metres after Trent 6-3, 6-1 in the Stuttgart doubles There would be a minimum of 10 other stores she felt were doing the same using the hashtag under the Champions League logo - a reference to United in fourth. Leeds stayed 10th on 46 points. Alexandxer-­Arnold beat Leeds goalkeeper Illan round of 16 on Monday. Barty games for each team. the fact that the proposed 20-club Super League Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa praised his team Meslier to a long Diogo Jota pass and squared it have handled the fall-out better, after attracting backlash for digging deep to avoid defeat. “There were pe- to the Senegalese forward. from“#DietCultureVultures”. fans online, The Good While Place Demi star later Jameela accepted rushed she tocould the riods when one dominated the other,”. “Perhaps Roberto Firmino came close to adding a second defence of her pal, insisting the hitmaker shouldn’t be por- in the second half when we were losing we had shortly after the break but Leeds then pegged trayed as a “monster” off the back of the incident. more continuity when we were searching for the back the visitors and missed several chances “Ok, I want to try to avoid making the story bigger than it equalizer. before Llorente rose above his markers to already is,” the actress wrote on Instagram Stories. “But if “We kept on being dangerous even though the head home a Jack Harrison corner. Substitute an eating disorder advocate says she sees products that are opponent was defending close to their goal.” His Mohamed Salah had scuffed a close-range shot positioned as guilt free, and it is potentially triggering, that Liverpool counterpart Juergen Klopp put on a wide for Liverpool moments before Llorente doesn’t mean she’s too stupid to remember that diabetics brave face after his team let victory slip away scored his first goal for Leeds and Alex Oxlade- exist. It just means that we need to change the marketing of from their grasp. “It is disappointing of course Chamberlain spurned a gilt-edged chance to but we cannot say it was not deserved for Leeds,” snatch a stoppage-time winner for the visitors. products that are for people’s medical needs. VoM Wednesday, April 21, 2021 The Asian Telegraph www.theasiantelegraph.net

SECP to reform REIT, Vowing cooperation, China’s providing support for Royal Group plans to set up growth of REIT schemes dairy processing plant in Specialised Companies Division Commis- Pakistan: Chen Yiyi sioner Farrukh Sabzwari said that the draft amendments were being proposed on the - back of an extensive stakeholder consultation prise to enter Pakistan exercise over the past eight months Royal Group is not theBEIJING first Chinese dairy enter ISLAMABAD Pakistan is rich in buffalo breeds, buffalo research, and Securities and Exchange Commission of buffalo milk manufacturing. To leverage its advantages Pakistan (SECP) Chairman Aamir Khan has reiterated the resolve to reform the Real Estate Investment Trusts’ regulatory hope to set up a dairy processing plant in Pakistan,” framework in the country. The initiative andPresident enhance of Royal Pakistan-China Group, Chen cooperation Yiyi said on in Tuesday. this field, If was aimed at moving towards disclosure- regulations permit, we are willing to share China’s ex- based issuance, providing requisite sup- perience and embryo technology,” Chen said in an in- port for growth of Real Estate Investment terview after completing a week-long visit to Pakistan. Trust (REIT) schemes, reducing entry “In the foreseeable future, the rapid growth of animal barriers and attracting PPP-based infra- husbandry will impose more pressure on dairy produc- structure projects into the realm of REITs. ers, so it’s imperative for us to improve buffalo’s variet- Khan’s remarks came during a consulta- tive roundtable, organised to discuss draft ies through new technologies and work with Pakistani amendments to the REIT Regulations partners to promote the output of the entire animal 2015. A departmental presentation, deliv- husbandry industry,” he added. Chen introduced that ered on the occasion, explained the major China’s practice in the animal husbandry industry over reforms proposed with regard to revamp- the past 30 years has shown that a proportional intro- ing the conventional REIT model, allowing duction of gene technology and embryo technology is REITs to invest either in real estate directly conducive to the rapid growth of the agricultural popu- or through investments in special pur- lation and the improvement of population quality. pose companies, introducing the concept China’s experiences and technologies in this respect of public-private partnership (PPP)-based infrastructure projects under the REIT um- brella, etc. of Pakistan’s animal husbandry in terms of quality and Additionally, the regulatory amendments willquantity, be beneficial In addition to the to technologicalre-development cooperation, and upgrading Chen include facilitating REIT companies with UN Security Council informed that he is also willing to develop dairy products removal of a number of approval processes processing and industrial research in Pakistan to meet and rationalising requirements for submis- Pakistan calls for ‘flexibility’ to break deadlock in UN the demands of its domestic market and seek export to sion of various documents. An engaging the Chinese and international markets. “That will not discussion followed the presentation that only create foreign exchange reserve for Pakistan but covered the entire spectrum of REITs and Security Council reform consultations also enhance the competitiveness of China and Pakistan its regulatory and operational framework. Specialised Companies Division Commis- Expansion in permanent membership would not be a solution to the legitimacy: Munir Akram in milk and meat production in Asia,” Chen added. To improve the processing capacity of dairy products and sioner Farrukh Sabzwari said that the draft UNITED NATIONS amendments were being proposed on the noting that they had caused major impediment to and a possibility to get re-elected. The Security reduce foreign exchange losses, “the Pakistani govern- back of an extensive stakeholder consulta- required consensus among all United Nations’ ments at all levels have been dedicated to improving the tion exercise over the past eight months. Council. “Expansion in the permanent member- Pakistanmember states has called to break for flexibilitythe impasse to achievein the long- the efficientship would functioning not be a solution and decision-making to the legitimacy in and the Council is currently composed of five permanent The draft amendments incorporate major- running negotiations to restructure the UN Secu- has facilitated investors,” Chen said. Xiao Ziqi, a mem- ity proposals by the stakeholders during effectiveness of the Security Council,” the Pakistan members elected — Britain, to serve China, for two France, years. Russia In his and re- rity Council. “The principle and the single most envoy said. The UfC group, he added, was commit- marks, Ambassador Akram underscored the need investmentber of the delegation environment who in is theexperienced past five yearsin agricultural and that the prior consultation exercise for both the United States — and 10 non-permanent investment, said that in Pakistan the purchase price of the conventional and infrastructure REIT ted to an equitable enlargement of the Security for consensus among the membership of the UN groups and all member states, to try to accom- Council, in particular to enlarging the representa- General Assembly in order to have the ability to pure buffalo milk is RMB 4-5 per kilogram, which varies models. However, the SECP is open to any modate each other’s’ positions,” Ambassador further feedback/improvements, which is important requirement is flexibility on part of all tion of those regions, which are underrepresented affect the Charter amendment, which is required slightly from region to region. In contrast, the purchase Munir Akram said, as the Inter-Governmental and have been historically discriminated against to be adopted by the large majority as well as by price of buffalo milk in China is about 2-3 times that of why it is pertinent for the stakeholders to Negotiations (IGN) aimed at making the 15-mem- - during the course of history. Full-scale negotia- all permanent members of the Security Council, to Pakistan. In Guangxi Province, a core producing area in ber Council more effective, representative and tions to reform the Security Council began in the accomplish the reform. On its part, the Pakistani tation round for timely consideration and accountable, resumed on Monday. “It is only by China, the price has been increasing year by year, reach- envoy said, the UfC, had demonstrated consider- ing nearly RMB 10-12 yuan per kilogram, and once ap- submit their comments in this final consul building consensus that we can breathe new - life in the IGN process,” the Pakistani envoy told tion of veto, regional representation, size of an en- presented proposals and offered ideas to achieve early finalisation of the regulations. General Assembly in February 2009 on five key delegates, amid continuing campaign by the so- areaslarged — Security the categories Council, of and membership, working methods the ques of ableconsensus. flexibility, “Unfortunately,” pointing out he that said, the “we group have hadnot the council and its relationship with the General - proached RMB 15 in peak seasons. VoM Assembly. Despite a general agreement on enlarg- tain other groups.” Amid the existing divergences calledAmbassador Group ofAkram four —said India, that Brazil, Pakistan, Germany which andis a ing the Council, as part of the UN reform process, seenin the a approachsimilar spirit to reshape of flexibility the Securityon behalf Council, of cer Japanmember — offor the permanent Uniting for seats Consensus at UN’s (UfC) high group, table. member states remain divided over the details.

members in an enlarged Security Council, but for expanding the Council by 10 seats, with six Ambassadorthe areas of convergence. Akram urged In this IGN’s regard, co-chairs he noted — remainsseeks expansion firmly opposed in the two-year to additional non-permanent permanent Theadditional G-4 have permanent shown noand flexibility four non-permanent in their push ambassadors of Poland and Qatar — to broaden category. “We do not believe in enlarging the ‘cen- members. On the other hand, the UfC group has relationship between the Security Council and ters of privilege’ through the permanent mem- - considerablethe General Assembly convergence and inthe two size issuesand working — the bership of the Security Council, which was the manent members with longer duration in terms subject of objection by many members,” he said, proposed a new category of members — not per KP Development methods of the Security Council. VoM Zulfi urges Muslim CPEC UN representative expresses commitment for world to start movement CPEC capitalizes on Pakistan’s ideal location at strengthening rural market opportunities for against blasphemy crossroads of regional markets: Ambassador Haque ISLAMABAD Ambassador Haque congratulated the world of increasing geopolitical uncertainty smallholder farmers in KP Special Assistant to the Prime Min- forum on its 20th anniversary this and rising inequalities both within and “The federal government is actively working on strengthen- ages for farmers and traders.“The federal government ister on Overseas Pakistanis and Hu- year, adding, the 20th session was among the nations. Ambassador Haque ing Pakistan’s trade relationship with Afghanistan, including is actively working on strengthening Pakistan’s trade man Resource Development Sayed taking place amidst an unprecedented congratulated the forum on its 20th anni- improving the performance of border agencies, better border relationship with Afghanistan, including improving the Zulfikar Abbas Bukhari on Tuesday global health crisis and economic versary this year, adding, the 20th session infrastructure and improving border clearance procedures. performance of border agencies, better border infra- exhorted the Muslim leaders from meltdown, which makes cooperation was taking place amidst an unprece- Improving agriculture production in the merged districts and structure and improving border clearance procedures. around the world to start Prime Minis- inescapable in an interconnected and dented global health crisis and economic Improving agriculture production in the merged dis- connecting small holder farmers with markets in Pakistan ter Imran Khan like movement against interdependent world meltdown, which makes cooperation in- tricts and connecting small holder farmers with markets HAINAN escapable in an interconnected and inter- and Afghanistan is a priority for the federal government,” said in Pakistan and Afghanistan is a priority for the federal blasphemy.“Comparable to holocaust Nafeesa Khattak denial laws, the Muslim leaders must Pakistan is a proud partner of Belt and dependent world. A prosperous future for government,” said Nafeesa Khattak.FAO Representative Road Initiative (BRI) through its flagship humanity in today’s world could only be PESHAWAR a.i, Rebekah Bell stated that “FAO has a long standing re- start the movement like Prime Minis- The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the Unit- lationship with the federal and provincial governments ter Imran Khan first by educating & programme of China Pakistan Economic built through dialogue, solidarity and mu- ed Nations’ Representative a.i. in Pakistan, Rebekah Bell, in support of the farmers of the merged districts. then legislating,” he tweeted. Corridor (CPEC) which capitalizes on tually beneficial cooperation. He thanked met with Nafeesa Khattak, Member National Assembly He added that there was absolutely Pakistan’s ideal location at the crossroads the government and people of China for the and Mansoor Khattak, Deputy Commissioner of Khyber of regional markets and the government’s critical medical assistance provided dur- District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The parties discussed no possibility for allowing anyone to disrespect our Prophet (PBUH) at any policy of geo-economics to act as transit ing the Covid outbreak last year as well as the rural market opportunities for farmers in the newly corridor for trade, energy pipelines and the current supply of Chinese vaccines to merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the chal- cost, but they must work together to root it out forever. His tweet came in tourist flow, Pakistan Ambassador to China, confront the second spell of the pandemic. lenges faced by farmers and traders in Khyber whose Moin ul Haque said. Speaking at the 20th The 20th Session of Boao Forum for Asia markets are in Afghanistan. It was highlighted that FAO the backdrop of the prime minister’s will continue to work with the Government of Khyber recent televised address to the nation. Session of Boao Forum for Asia’s inaugural opened on 18 April in Boao city of Southern Pakhtunkhwa and development partners to strengthen The prime minister, in the address, un- banquet held in China’s Hainan province, Hainan province of China under the theme Ambassador Haque noted that China’s BRI of “A world in Change: Join Hands to the economy in the newly merged districts, by improv- veiled his strategy against the prevail- offered a new mode of win-win collabo- Strengthen Global Governance and Advance ing commercial agriculture production and businesses ing Islamophobia in the west. as well as developing better cross border market link- ration, partnership and connectivity in a Belt and Road Cooperation”. Global Market JCPOA New nuclear deal with Iran ‘is at draft stage’: report Dollar falls to lowest in more than seven weeks The second round of talks to are really interested in reaching an agree- The dollar has fallen so far in April as the yen, the dollar broke the 108 level resolve the standoff began last ment, and they have been moving from gen- as Iran has declined face-to-face negotiations, U.S. bond yields retreated from the vaccineovernight, by beforeBioNTech reversing and Pfizer. course, Versus up Thursday in the basement of a eral to more focused issues, which are clearly, luxurybut EU hotelofficials in Vienna.are carrying The USout is shuttle not present diplo- 14-month highs touched last month. 0.3% on the day at 108.450. “USD/ on one side sanction lifting, and on the other macy with a US delegation in another hotel The moves are a reverse of what hap- JPY is one G10 currency pair which not present as Iran has declined side nuclear implementation issues.”The across the road. A temporary deal could be pened in the first quarter of the year, has still not fully retraced the move luxuryface-to-face hotel negotiations,in Vienna. The but US EU is JCPOA has been on life support since 2018, a way to gain time for a lasting settlement, when the dollar strengthened as U.S. higher from March when it started the officials are carrying out shuttle when the US withdrew from the deal and re- Iranian officials said on Monday. “We are on Treasury yields rose, offering higher month trading closer to the 106.00- diplomacy with a US delegation in imposed sanctions, and Iran began enriching the right track and some progress has been returns on the greenback level,” Lee Hardman, currency analyst another hotel across the road fissile uranium beyond the limits permitted made, but this does not mean that the talks in LONDON at MUFG, said in a note to clients. The JEDDAH by the deal. New US President Joe Biden The dollar dropped to its lowest in Australian dollar strengthened to a Negotiators trying to revive the collapsed has offered to ease sanctions when Iran Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said. nearly seven weeks during the Asian Commerzbank strategist You-Na Park- one-month high of 0.7812, helped nuclear deal with Iran are close to a draft returns to compliance with the agreement, Vienna“What is have being reached discussed the finalfor the stage,” near Foreign term is session, while the euro rallied, as in- Heger wrote in a note to clients that by minutes from the Reserve Bank agreement, leading envoys said on Monday. but Tehran insists the US must act first. The the main outlines of an interim deal to give vestors grew more optimistic about the recent fall in the dollar is due to of Australia’s April meeting which second round of talks to resolve the stand- all sides more time to resolve complicated the pace of vaccine rollout in Europe the U.S. Federal Reserve’s reassur- showed the central bank expects a rescuing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of off began last Thursday in the basement of a technical issues.” and U.S. Treasury yields remained ing the market that it will not end faster rebound from the pandemic. At TalksAction are(JCPOA), continuing the deal in with Vienna world aimed powers at below their March spikes. The dollar its monetary stimulus anytime soon, 0729 GMT it was at 0.7808, up 0.7% to curb Tehran’s nuclear program in return has fallen so far in April as U.S. bond while an improving vaccine situation on the day. The New Zealand dollar for the lifting of sanctions. “We can note with yields retreated from the 14-month in Europe is supporting the euro. But was up 0.6% at 0.7223. Oil prices satisfaction that the negotiations entered the highs touched last month. The moves she said that the situation could rap- edged higher on Monday, supported drafting stage,” the Russian Ambassador to are a reverse of what happened in idly change. “The economic recovery by a weaker U.S. dollar but gains were the first quarter of the year, when the in the U.S. might drive up inflation ex- capped by concerns about the impact “Practical solutions are still far away, but we dollar strengthened as U.S. Treasury pectations further, fuelling rate hike on demand from rising coronavirus Vienna,have moved Mikhail from Ulyanov, general words said on to Monday.agreeing yields rose, offering higher returns on speculation. The news situation in the cases in India.The commodity-linked on specific steps toward the goal.” The EU’s the greenback. At 0728 GMT, the dol- euro zone in connection with corona Norwegian crown hit its strongest top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said his political lar index was down 0.1% at 90.952, might change again as uncertainty re- since 2018 versus the dollar, and also director Enrique Mora, who is chairing the having hit a low of 90.877 during the mains high,” she said. Some analysts reached its strongest since January Asian session. The euro was up 0.3% said the support for the euro likely 2020 versus the euro. It sank as low to Brussels on Friday. “I think there is real at $1.2065 - it’s highest in nearly came from the announcement that the as $51,541.16 on Sunday, after hitting talks,goodwill had ,gone to reach back an to agreement,Vienna after and returning that’s European Union has secured an addi- a record high of $64,895.22 just days good news,” Borrell said.“I think the parties the key $1.20 in the previous session. earlier. seven weeks — after having passed tional 100 million doses of COVID-19

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