Soon From LAHORE & KARACHI A sister publication of CENTRELINE & DNA News Agency www.islamabadpost.com.pk ISLAMABAD EDITION

IslamabadTuesday, December 29, 2020 Pakistan’s First AndP Only DiplomaticO Daily STPrice Rs. 20 CPEC is highly Kazakhstan Female activist valued in Pakistan, elections are jailed for Six says Nong Rong important: envoy years in KSA Detailed News On Page-01 Detailed News On Page-01 Detailed News On Page-08 Briefs PM slams people UNGA chief slams check maligning state post attack DNA institutions NEW YORK: The UN Gen- eral Assem- The PM also directed his government bly Presi- dent, Volkan to ensure the safety of the armed forces Bozkir, has condemned and other institutions in the country Saturday’s terrorist attack on a Paki- Naveed Miraj / DNA stani Frontier Corps post in ‘ML-1 project Balochistan in which seven ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on to bring job soldiers were martyred. “I Monday said that foreign agencies and ‘spon- express my condolences to sored people’ are running a campaign against opportunities’ the people and the Govern- state institutions on social media, adding that ment of Pakistan today,” he the government will go after all such people. Shujaat Hamza / DNA said in a tweet on Sunday. He was holding a meeting with federal minis- The terrorists raided the ters, special assistants and advisers, and con- ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran FC post located in Shahrag cerned secretaries in Islamabad. Referencing Khan has said ML-1 project will establish area of Harnai. Pakistani the attack on the Frontier Corps in Balochistan modern communication infrastructure of ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Senator Shibli Faraz Ambassador Munir Akram a day ago during which seven brave soldiers international standard in the country and called on President Dr. Arif Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr. – DNA said that while Pakistan had embraced martyrdom while fighting with ter- create job opportunities as well as new paid a heavy price in blood rorists, PM Imran Khan said that the Army prospects for Pakistan’s industry. and treasure in the fight is a state institution and protecting it is a na- Chairing a review meeting of ML-1 under against externally spon- tional responsibility, per sources. “We have to the umbrella of China-Pakistan Economic sored terrorism, its resolve Shibli lambasts PDM give a befitting response to the anti-military Corridor in Islamabad on Monday, he said to defeat terrorism remains narrative,” he said. The PM also directed his Pakistani exports will timely reach to in- unwavering.” government to ensure the safety and security ternational markets by having better land of the armed forces and other institutions in route coordination with country’s seaports, for creating chaos Supporters the country. The PM also directed the govern- paving a way for earning precious foreign ment to probe JUI-F’s chief Maulana Fazlur exchange. The Prime Minister said ML-1 Senator Shibli Faraz has said that the government was ready for Rehman’s assets, saying that his “corruption is the costliest of CPEC projects, which will of govt are should be exposed,’ sources said. The PM also add a new chapter to the Pakistan-China dialogue with serious minded leadership of the Opposition said that the Opposition does not have an inter- relations. Railways Minister Azam Khan national dialogue was part also culprits est in the welfare of this country but they are Swati apprised the Prime Minister about Rana Farrukh of politics but both Mariyam working for their own interests, sources added. integration plan of the ML-1 project. The Nawaz and Maulana Fazalur DNA Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over ISLAMABAD: Information Rehman who were not part Continued on Page 06 the progress made so far on the project. TANK: Jamiat Ulema-e-Is- Minister Shibli Faraz has of the parliament would be lam-Fazl said opposition’s campaign excluded from the process. (JUI-F) chief is aimed at creating chaos in He said that the government Maulana Fa- the country to protect their has also given the agenda of zlur Rehman Pakistan concerned over looted money. the dialogue which would be said on Mon- Addressing a news confer- reforms in electoral system. day that even ence along with Minister Criticizing the opposition, the supporters of the “in- Kashmiri leaders’ health for Science and Technology he said that they were seek- competent” government are Chaudhry Fawad Hussain ing resignation of the gov- culprits and involved in all and Minister for Water Re- can never be in favour of leadership of the Opposition ernment on the allegation A.M.Bhatti ‘Indian forces spreading sources Faisal Vawda in the problems being faced by democracy. Senator Shibli and the forum would be the of electoral rigging but has Islamabad Monday, he said the country today. Address- ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Faraz has said that the gov- Parliament as it represented given no electoral reforms. fear among Kashmiris’ those who desire to top- ing a gathering of JUI-F has shown strong concern ernment was ready for dia- the people’s will. The Infor- ple an elected government Continued on Page 06 workers in Tank, Fazl said over the continued incar- The Foreign Minister said unarmed logue with serious minded mation Minister said that that the incumbent govern- ceration and deteriorat- Kashmiri youth are being subjected to ment did not have the right ing health conditions of state terrorism in fake encounters to stay in office as it was Kashmiri leaders including Ban on Kazakhstan CPEC highly “illegitimate” and “incom- founding leader of Kashmi- hayam bbasi UK flights valued in petent”. “This illegitimate ri organization “Dukhtaran- K A / DNA elections are government is a product i-Millat” and the “Iron Lady ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood of fraud,” he said, adding of Kashmir”, Ms. Asiya extended Pakistan: Qureshi says Indian occupation forces have been ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on that the country belongs to Andrabi; leader and found- spreading fear among the unarmed and innocent peo- important: envoy Nong Rong everyone and that it wasn’t er of the Jammu & Kash- Monday extended travel ple of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir restrictions, imposed last anyone’s personal property. mir Democratic Freedom (IIOJ&K) through continuous oppression and perse- According to the Kazakhstan Party, Mr. Shabbir Ahmed week for inbound trav- A.M.Bhatti cution. In a statement on Monday, the Foreign Minis- el from the Britian after constitution people aged 25 can be Shah;and prominent lead- ter said unarmed Kashmiri youth are being subjected ISLAMABAD: Chinese am- Army not ers such as Mr. Yasin Ma- detection of a new strain part of the Majlis. All the reforms bassador to Pakistan Nong to state terrorism in fake encounters. “Those killed of SARS-COV-2, from De- in politics: lik; MasaratAlam Bhat; in fake encounters are painted as terrorists and fake made by the President are now Rong has said that as an cember 29 to January 4. important pilot project of Rasheed Continued on Page 06 Continued on Page 06 According to a notifica- being practically implemented the Belt and Road Initiative tion issued by the Civil (BRI) and a demonstration Aviation Authority (CAA), A.M.Bhatti / DNA project of China-Pakistan Co- DNA the instructions stipulated operation, the CPEC plays a ISLAMABAD: Minister in previous letters “are ISLAMABAD: Akan Rakhmetul- significant role to promote for Interi- hereby extended till Janu- lin, Ambassador of the Republic the in-depth development or Sheikh ary 04, 2021, 2359 hours, of Kazakhstan to the Islamic Re- of the all-weather strategic Rashid where applicable. – DNA public of Pakistan has discussed cooperative partnership and Ahmed on Kazakhstan’s Presidential Political high-quality growth of the Monday Pak, UAE reforms and its important develop- Belt and Road Initiative. emphasised ment in the country. He expressed these views While talking part in a seminar that the Pakistan Army was relations while speaking during a arranged by CGSS, the ambassa- webinar organized by the “not involved” in the coun- dor thanked all panelists for their try’s politics in the past nor historical CPEC Media Froum and in-depth analysis of Kazakhstan’s Chinese embassy. would it be in the future. political system and parliamentary elections. Highlighting the Speaking to the media in DNA The ambassador further importance of enhanced representation of women and youth said that high level and Islamabad, he questioned ISLAMABAD: Chairman he mentioned that according to the Kazakhstan constitution why the leaders of the op- quality participation in the Kashmir Committee Shehr- people aged 25 can be part of the Majlis. All the reforms made CPEC media forum was the position’s Pakistan Dem- yar Khan Afridi has said by the President are now being practically implemented. ocratic Movement (PDM) testimony to the fact that Pakistan and United Arab The elections being held in 2021 will hold uniqueness in CPEC has been highly val- did not take the name of Emirates enjoy historical, re- that they are held amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Gen Ziaul Haq when they ued in Pakistan. ligious and cultural ties.Talk- safety of our citizens is the number one priority for the gov- Since its inception in 2015, talked about the alleged ing to UAE’s Ambassador ernment. The entire process will be conducted keeping in role of the army in politics. CPEC Media Forum has to Pakistan Hamad Obaid view the international SOPs to ensure the safety of citizens brought together the gov- ISLAMABAD: Chairman Kashmir Committee Shehryar Afridi Alzaabi who called on him especially the elderly population of Kazakhstan. Democracy ernments, business commu- met with Ambassador of UAE Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al-Zaabi. in Islamabad on Monday, cannot be constructed overnight. In Kazakhstan, we are very nities, media, think tanks, Pakistan & UAE have decades-old friendship & both countries sensitive about developing our political system to be more and other sectors of China open and transparent. – ( ) Inside... would further their friendship. – DNA Continued on Page 06 Detailed news on Page 03 and Pakistan to focus on the CDA plans more under construction of the CPEC. passes to ease out traffic (Detailed news on Back Page) flow in Capital – Page 02 Djibouti Intellectuals discuss China, Pakistan resolute in promoting CPEC upcoming Kazakh delegation Parliamentary elections Zhao said that since the outbreak of COVID-19, CPEC projects have insisted on – Page 03 arrives today ICCI, RDA sign not evacuating people, not laying off workers, and not stopping construction bid aza MoU for developing BEIJING: China and Pa- project of the Belt and ordination and cooperation ond meeting last Friday, he the meeting, China and Pa- na’s overall investment in A R industrial estate kistan are resolute in Road Initiative (BRI), the working group held its sec- said. Zhao noted that during kistan reiterated their com- the Belt and Road, including ISLAMABAD: A 12 member – Page 04 pushing forward the con- CPEC has maintained pos- mitment to implementing the CPEC, has increased. delegation led by Muham- Peace and zero hunger struction of the China-Pa- itive development momen- the consensus reached by He said that in the first mad Ali Houmed, President go hand in hand kistan Economic Corridor tum since 2013. the leaders of the two coun- three quarters of this year, of Djibouti National Parlia- – Page 05 (CPEC) and the prospects Zhao said that since the out- tries and agreed to promote China’s non-financial out- ment and Acting Chairman US bolsters support of the CPEC are bright, a break of COVID-19, CPEC CPEC cooperation in areas bound direct investment in of the African Union is ar- for Taiwan, Tibet, Foreign Ministry spokes- projects have insisted on such as industry, agricul- countries along Belt and riving Pakistan today. The angering China person said on Monday. not evacuating people, not ture, science and technolo- Road routes recorded a year- High level African Parlia- – Page 06 Spokesperson Zhao Lijian laying off workers, and not gy, and people’s livelihoods. on-year increase of nearly 30 mentary delegation is also Pak, Azerbaijan mull made the remarks at a press stopping construction. Meetings of other working percent. China has provided accompanied by the Navel opening Azerbaijan’s briefing when asked to com- A number of key projects groups under the frame- assistance and support with- Chief of Djibouti. The del- trade house ment on a report that China have been completed or in- work of the CPEC will be in its capacity to a number egation is visiting on the – Page 07 will gradually end its finan- augurated and have provid- held soon to prepare for the of countries participating invitation of Chairman Sen- cial support of Pakistan ed strong support for Paki- meeting of the joint commit- in the construction of the China to remain ate of Pakistan Muhammad Pakistan’s top pledged under the CPEC. stan to fight the pandemic tee of the CPEC, he added. Belt and Road to help them Sadiq Sinjrani and will have priority: FM Qureshi “Such reports are ground- and stabilize its economy, Zhao stressed that against fight the pandemic and important meetings with the – Page 08 less,” said Zhao, adding said Zhao. the backdrop of the global restore their economies, that as an important pilot The CPEC international co- economic recession, Chi- Zhao said. – Agencies Continued on Page 06 IslamabadPOST 02 NATIONAL Tuesday, December 29, 2020 Woman who Briefs slapped cop AJK president gets bail slams world’s DNA silence over LAHORE: A sessions court on Monday granted interim IOJK bail to a woman accused of ISLAMABAD: The Azad assaulting a policeman after Jammu and he tried to stop her from con- Kashmir suming alcohol outside an (AJK) Pres- upscale cafe in Lahore. ident Sard- After an initial hearing, Addi- tional Sessions Judge Sohail ar Masood Anjum approved the bail of Khan has Kinza Rehman subject to regretted the silence of submission of surety bonds the so-called human rights worth Rs50,000. The court champion even after the In- stopped police from arrest- dian occupation army itself ing her until January 13 and has confessed that it had summoned a report regard- killed the ordinary civilians ing the case. in fake encounters in occu- Her lawyer contended be- pied Kashmir and declared fore the court that the police them terrorists. lodged an FIR against his cli- While reacting over the con- ent in negation of the actual fession of the Indian author- facts. She wants to join an in- ities that three Kashmiri vestigation launched against youth who were martyred in her to prove her innocence a fake encounter in Shopian but fears arrest at the hands district of occupied Kashmir of the police, he added. The in July this year, were not counsel, therefore, pleaded terrorists but the common with the court to grant his civilians, the state president client interim bail. According said that we already knew to the FIR lodged on Dec 20, that most of the encounters the woman and her friend taking place in the held ter- LARKANA: PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz along with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Asefa had entered into a brawl ritory were fake and staged Bhutto Zardari laying petals on the grave of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. – DNA with police officers when in which the Kashmiri youth the latter tried to stop them and the common civilians from consuming alcohol in are killed by declaring them public. The woman got angry terrorists. “Fake encoun- and slapped one of the cops. ters in IOJK are a common, A video of the incident had systematic occurrence. The CDA plans more under passes to gone viral on social media. Shoopian incident is being highlighted to give a false SC rejects impression of the occupa- tion army’s accountability. Thatta Such incidents are endem- ease out traffic flow in Capital ic especially during staged accountant’s encounters, and cordon and According to detail, CDA has decided to take important steps for resolving the issues of traffic search operations,” Khan plea said. He added that it was in Islamabad. The concerned departments including Engineering, Finance, and Planning have no longer a secret that the been directed to submit the feasibility report for the construction of flyover and underpasses DNA Indian Army was engaged in first phase, flyovers and underpasses will directed to submit the feasibility report to resolve these issues. A number of traf - KARACHI: The Supreme naked terrorism and ethnic DNA be constructed at Margala road, in F-10, for the construction of flyover and under- fic issues were being witnessed at Mar- Court of Pakistan on Mon- cleansing of the innocent and E-11 for streamlining the traffic. passes on Margala road, Shaheen Chowk gal road, therefore it was inevitable to day turned down a plea of a Kashmiri people in the oc- ISLAMABAD: Capital Development Au- According to detail, CDA has decided to Sector F-10, and F-10 east road so that resolve these issues. CDA has asked the senior accountant at the ed- cupied region. thority (CDA) asked the concerned au- take important steps for resolving the the work on the projects can be started concerned departments to prepare the ucation department against thorities to prepare the feasibility reports issues of traffic in Islamabad. The con- in February. first feasibility reports within three days his dismissal from service ‘Govt, PDM within three days to resolve the traffic cerned departments including Engineer- Traffic issues in Islamabad were increas- so that the traffic issues at Margala road over corruption charges. Ir- issues in the city here on Monday. In the ing, Finance, and Planning have been ing day by day, therefore CDA has decided and its adjoining areas can be resolved. fan Sheikh, who was posted engaged in in Thatta district, challenged his dismissal over alleged in- ‘Track-II’ volvement in embezzlement LHC summons FBR of over Rs70 million. An apex dialogue’ GB CM briefed on water, court bench, headed by Chief official for harassing Justice Gulzar Ahmed, heard the cast at Karachi regis- DNA try. During the hearing, the leading taxpayer hydropower projects chief justice asked a lawyer ISLAMABAD: Former min- representing the appellant: ister and Paki- the FBR official ignored the Thak, Shayok Dam, Basho, tional development particu- arranging the briefing on stan Muslim Abid Raza orders of the tribunal after “Do you think we don’t know DNA Attabad Lake, Skardu Dam, larly that of GB, he apprised WAPDA projects in GB, what happens in government League-Func- which the petitioner moved Tungus and Yulbohydropow- the Chief Minister that a the Chief Minister said that tional LAHORE: A single bench of the LHC to redress his accounts?” “This is an em- ISLAMABAD: Gilgit-Bal- er projects. hefty amount of Rs.78.5 bil- the region possesses enor- bezzlement of Rs70 million (PML-F) sec- Lahore High Court (LHC) grievance. In his arguments tistan (GB) Chief Minister Speaking on the occasion, lion is being spent on devel- mous water and hydropow- retary gener- comprising Justice Shahid but Rs7 billions are even em- before the court, lawyer of Muhammad Khalid Khursh- WAPDA Chairman appreci- opment schemes for uplift er potential. He said that bezzled,” he remarked. “You al Muhammad Ali Durrani Karim has summoned Com- the petitioner Qamar Abbas eed today called on the Paki- ated the support provided of the project area on con- construction of projects in- say this is a human error on Monday claimed the missioner Inland Revenue, Advocate said that FBR has stan Water and Power Devel- by the GB Government in fidence building measures cluding Diamer Basha Dam but Rs70 million got em- government and the oppo- RTO Lahore for harassing taken an illegal, unjustified opment Authority (WAPDA) implementation of various (CBMs). Dilating upon the wouldgo a long way in trans- bezzled,” the country’s top sition alliance was involved a taxpayer, closing down his and unilateral decision by Chairman Lt Gen Muzam- projects, especially Diamer employment opportunities forming the socio-economic judge observed. The coun- in a “Track-II dialogue” to business and ignoring orders suspending sales tax regis- mil Hussain (R). A briefing Basha Dam.The Chairman for the locals, he reiterated landscape of the country, sel said his client was a sen- defuse the confrontational of Appellate Tribunal Inland tration without hearing the was made to him regarding briefed that construction that the posts from BPS-1 Gilgit-Baltistan in particu- ior accountant at the Thatta political landscape. Revenue (ATIR) to reopen taxpayer. Moreover a stay water and hydropower pro- work on Diamer Basha Dam to 16, as advertised in the lar.He appreciated WAPDA education department. A diplomatic practice, business. . According to de- order was granted to the jects being implemented by is continuing satisfactorily Press on September 20 this for implementing resettle- Track-II or backchannel di- tails Commissioner Inland applicant by Appellate Tri- WAPDA in Gilgit-Baltistan- despite the difficulties ow- year, will be filled in from ment and social action plans National COVID alogue brings together un- Revenue Khaliq Farooq bunal Inland Revenue which during the meeting.These ing to Covid-19 pandemic. amongst the locals of Dis- for Diamer Basha Dam Pro- official representatives on Mian demanded extra tax was also ignored by the tax projects include Diamer Highlighting significance of trict Diamer/GB. ject in accordance with the positivity inches both sides, with no apparent from a leading textile mill official. He said that the gov- Basha Dam, Harpo, Tangir, Diamer Basha Dam in na- Expressing gratitude for international safeguards. government participation. owner and unilaterally sus- ernment is doing its best up at 6.13 % Speaking to a private tel - pended his sales tax registra- to promote businesses and tion upon refusal hitting the facilitate them to boost the ISLAMABAD: The Nation- evision, Durrani, while al COVID Positivity Ratio underscoring the need for business activity. limping economy and reve- The owner of the mill moved nue but some officials of the on Monday was recorded defusing the heated polit- 6.13 percent where 2,263 ical situation, the former ATIR through Qamar Abbas FBR are harassing business- Advocate which granted a Coronavirus patients were minister said a dialogue men on one pretext or other stay order for two months in critical condition across [between the government which is not only resulting in in favour of the applicant but widespread disappointment. the country with the num- and the PDM parties] has ber of critical patients rising begun and it can clearly at a fast pace. The positivi- be seen. ty ratio was determined on Durrani, who remained the basis of positive cases Minister for Information ‘Year 2021 to be appearing in 100 samples and Broadcasting during of COVID patients. The the tenure of President called year of trees’ highest positivity ratio was Pervez Musharraf and is observed in Abbottabad considered close to the SCP”, Nasir Hussain Shah which was 15.95 percent military establishment, DNA said earlier today and followed by Karachi 14.81 said the nation wanted a added that the oncoming percent and Hyderabad dialogue between the two KARACHI: Sindh’s min- year will be known as the 14.47 percent, according to stakeholders, adding there ister for year of trees in Sindh the latest update issued by are people [on both sides forests Na- as the provincial gov - the National Command and of the aisle] who can de- sir Hussain ernment has recovered Operation Center (NCOC). fuse the political heat.“In- Shah said hundreds of thousands The positivity ratio in vari- Monday stead of keeping such peo- of acres owned by the ous federating units was as in view of forest department. The ple behind the bars, they in Azad Jammu and Kashmir the committee on forests leases of land handed should be offered a chance (AJK) was 12.54 percent, formed by the Supreme out by the department in Balochistan 2.71 percent, to play a role in this situa- Court of Pakistan, they the years 2005-06 as per Islamabad Capital Territory tion,” he said in an appar- will mark the year 2021 to Forest Policy have now (ICT) 5.94 percent, Khyber ent reference to PML-N as the year of trees by been rescinded, the pro- Pakhtunkhwa (KP) 5.16 per- president and National As- planting as many saplings vincial minister with port- cent, Punjab 4.06 percent sembly Opposition Leader as possible. “We welcome folios of local bodies, in- HYDERABAD: Minister for Culture and Tourism Syed Sardar Shah and others are and Sindh had 8.61 percent Shahbaz Sharif. the forest committee by formation, and forests. inaugurating the 6th Ayaz Mela at Khanabadosh. – DNA / Photo by Jan Ali Laghari positivity ratio. Provinces asked to check hoarding, black-marketing The Finance Minister noted the increase in prices of eggs, wheat flour & tomatoes and directed to take all possible measures to bring down the prices of these essential items ISLAMABAD: Federal Minis- & tomatoes and directed to Earlier, the National Price the improved availability ter for Finance and Revenue, take all possible measures Monitoring Committee has ensured steady supply Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, to bring down the prices of (NPMC) reviewed the price of both commodities across Monday directed the pro- these essential items. The trend of essential commodi- the country while the wheat vincial governments to keep minister stressed the need for ties. The Finance Secretary stock position was sufficient close watch on the prices of increased coordination among briefed NPMC that there has for the domestic consump- wheat in the market to avoid all government functionaries been a nominal increase in tion and average per day hoarding, black-marketing and for efficient monitoring of weekly SPI by 0.11%. Prices release to the provinces is smuggling to ensure uninter- prices of essential items to of 10 basic items decreased also satisfactory. Among oth- rupted supply of the commod- provide maximum relief to the notably onions, potatoes ers, the meeting was attended ity wheat at affordable prices. general public. and chicken whereas eggs, by Minister for Industries and The minister was chairing the The Federal Minister for wheat flour and tomatoes Production, Special Assistant National Price Monitoring Industries and Production, registered a slight increase to the Prime Minister on Rev- Committee (NPMC) meet- Hammad Azhar apprised the during the week. The Min- enue, Provincial Chief Sec- ing here, according to press committee that that they were istry of National Food Secu- retaries, Secretary Planning statement issued by the Fi- closely monitoring the prices rity and Research updated Development and Special Initi- nance Ministry. The Finance of sugar and edible oil to en- NPMC about the current atives, Secretary Industries and Minister noted the increase sure uninterrupted supply at status of wheat and sugar Production, Chairman Federal in prices of eggs, wheat flour fair prices. stocks. It was informed that Board of Revenue (FBR). – APP 03 IslamabadPOST

METROLITETuesday, December 29, 2020 RCB’s Briefs family Intellectuals discuss upcoming festival in SI shot, full swing robbed near Sector I-9 Kazakh Parliamentary elections DNA ISLAMABAD: A police RAWALPINDI: The week sub-inspector was shot and Experts were of the view that Kazakhstan is emerging as the most long winter family festival then robbed by two men on organized by Rawalpindi a motorcycle in Islamabad’s powerful country with a lot of opportunities in the future Cantonment Board (RCB) Sector I-9 on Monday after- here at Rumi Park is at- noon. He was immediately on the regional politics and tracting a large number of moved to PIMS Hospital. DNA economies of neighboring citizens who are enthusias- According to the police, countries and their relation tically visiting the event. Rafiq was ending his duty ISLAMABAD: Center for with China and Russia as According to RCB spokes- near the Kattarian Grave- Global & Strategic Studies well. Furthermore, histori- man, the administration yard when he was attacked (CGSS), Islamabad organ- cally its relation with Russia was ensuring strict im- by the robbers. They first ized an Online Conference and the adjoining territories plementation of Standard asked for money from him on, “Kazakhstan’s Parlia- has always been important. Operating Procedures at gunpoint and when he mentary Election 2021: A It is witnessed that Kazakh- (SOPs) in this food and refused, they opened fire Way Forward for Further stan is emerging as the most entertainment festival at him. The robbers took Strengthening Democra- powerful country with a lot of which will end on Decem- Rafiq’s official weapon and cy & Political Setup”. The opportunities in the future. ber 31 to avoid spread of license. A case has been conference aimed to un- In recent reforms, the trade coronavirus. The festival registered and the police derstand the Kazakhstan relation of local traders and organised by RCB, brought have begun investigations government’s attempts to mercantile associations has scores of families to Rumi to arrest the perpetrators strengthen fair democratic enhanced resulting in eco- Park where they had fun as soon as possible. and political values in the nomic development. He also and enjoyed at the stalls. country to give a neutral mentioned that the most They had lunch and dinner and unbiased perspective important element in the Ka- with their families at the PR retrieves on how such steps will be zakhstan political system is food stalls. The spokesman over 7 acres effective for free and fair the visionary leadership and said, the RCB administra- parliamentary elections in role of Nursultan Nazarbayev tion made untiring efforts land in pindi the country on 10th January in introducing productive re- to make the event suc- 2021. The conference was forms in Kazakhstan, despite cessful so that the citizens division commenced with the speech all western propaganda and could enjoy with their fam- of Dr. Mahboob Hussain, reservations. Keeping in view ilies in a safe atmosphere. DNA Chairman, Department of the present scenario, his role The kids also enjoyed the History & Pakistan Studies, and contribution cannot be festival as special kids’ ISLAMABAD: Pakistan University of Punjab, Lahore. the upcoming elections are an and the society. The presiden- Kazakhstan has implemented tant Professor, Department kept aside, as it has proven to zone was made for their Railways has retrieved over He discussed Kazakhstan important step towards the tial elections of June 2019, effective reforms including, of History, University of the be a guiding star for everyone enjoyment. The event in- seven acres railway land Parliamentary Election 2021: political institutionalization was the first sign that new po- voter registration reforms and Punjab, Lahore discussed and the most important pillar cludes beautiful decor of worth over Rs116 million A Giant Step Towards Liberal setup in the country. Several litical players and new political securing representation of blessings of Political system of Kazakhstan’s system. Dr. Christmas trees, lighting, from the land encroachers and Functional Democracy. reforms have been introduced forces are getting their share women and youth. If we com- in Kazakhstan. He highlight- Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan, game show, jumping cas- in Rawalpindi Division in its He mentioned the historical for the upcoming elections in in the political landscape of pare the upcoming elections ed that this topic is very im- Member Board of Experts, tles, horse dance, magic two days’ operation against and cultural importance of terms of representation and the country. He further men- with the previous elections, portant viz a viz the current CGSS & Regional Geopoliti- show, edibles stalls and a land grabbers. Central Asia dating back to constitutional requirements. tioned that it is the science there are several key differ- political situation in Kazakh- cal Analyst discussed Vital ac- chrysanthemum flowers The operation was launched ancient times. Hundreds of It is a very important step in of history that politically sta- ences. There are new players stan. It is a country that is tors of preparedness of free exhibition. The beautiful under the supervision of poets, writers, and Sufis mi- terms of institution building, ble societies gain economic in the political process, in- economically, politically, and fair elections in Kazakh- species of Chrysanthe- Divisional Superintendent grated from central Asia to especially the political institu- prosperity. Kazakhstan is creased transparency, and the historically, geographically stan in 2021. He mentioned mum are spreading au- of Rawalpindi Division Mun- South Asia, thereby contrib- tionalization building. In the one of the most economical- enhanced right to speak and and in the foreign policy par- that all actors in Kazakhstan tumn hues. The credit of awar Shah on the direction uting significantly to the lit- upcoming parliamentary elec- ly and socially stable country participate during joint discus- adigm is one of the most im- are fully prepared for upcom- all plantation goes to Addi- of Minister for Railways erature, history, science, and tions, the determining factor of Central Asia as a result of sions, meetings of standees portant countries in Central ing parliamentary elections tional Cantonment Execu- Azam Khan Swati. Azam culture of South Asia. will be the new paradigm of the constitutional reforms, committees, etc. Asia. The upcoming elections according to international tive Officer Maria Jabeen, Swati congratulated the Pa- Dr. Mahboob highlighted that the relation between the state the election commission of Dr. Ghazi M. Abdullah, Assis- will have a long-term impact standards and protocols. Horticulturists Mehar kistan Railways officer, who Gul and her team which took part in the operation worked day and night to against the land grabbers Criminals’ gang make the plantation cam- in Rawalpindi and Karachi AIOU spring admissions paign a success, he added. divisions adding that the ministry would deal with busted, motorbikes, CPO holds the encroachers with iron hands. The minister said begin from January 15 ‘Khuli that instructions have been weapons recovered issued to all the divisions to ISLAMABAD: Islamabad to accelerate their efforts to has taken special measures university website (www. missions in the 2nd phase Kutchery’ at launch a grand operation to Ramana police team has curb the crime in the city. DNA to ensure availability of the aiou.edu.pk). The univer- of spring 2021 semester CPO office get rid of railway land grab- arrested five members of SP (Saddar-zone) Sarfraz admission prospectuses at sity has recently signed will be commenced from bers. Azam Swati said that a criminal gang involved in Virk constituted police team ISLAMABAD: Allama Iqbal the doorsteps of the stu- MoUs with the telecom March 1, 2021 and will incompetence and corrupt incidents of dacoity as well under supervision of DSP Open University (AIOU) dents. operators of Pakistan to continue till 15 April, 2021 DNA elements would not be tol- as street crime and recov- Zulfiqar Ahmed to ensure commences admissions for In this regard, prospec- facilitate the students in for the programs including RAWALPINDI: City Po- erated at any cost, adding ered, motorbikes mobile arrest of criminals. On a the programs offered in the tus sale points are being fee depositing. In accord- BA (Associate Degree), BS lice Officer (CPO) Rawal- that the officers who would phones and weapons from tip off, Police team includ- 1st phase of spring 2021 established at the union ance with these agree- and B Ed. The Vice Chan- pindi, DIG, Muhammad perform in good faith be their possession, a police ing SHO Ramana Police semester including matric- council level throughout ments, students would be cellor, AIOU, Prof Dr Zia Ahsan Younas on Monday appreciated at the Ministry spokesman said. According station Sub-Inspector, ASI ulation, intermediate, ATC, the country. The informa- able to deposit admission Ul-Qayyum, has instruct- held a ‘Khuli Kutchery’ level. Recently, the minis- to details, Inspector General Haider Shah along with oth- BS (face to face) as well as tion about the prospectus fee through Jazz cash, Ea- ed the relevant admission here at CPO office. try has retrieved as many of Police (IGP) Islamabad ers successfully arrested MS/M Phil and PhD from sale points would be up- sypaisa, Upaisa mobile ap- authorities to take special The ‘Khuli Kutchery’ was as 180.754 acres of its pre- Aamir Zulfiqar Khan ordered five members of a criminal January 15, 2021 across Pa- loaded on the university plication *786# stickering, measures to provide ad- attended among others by crackdown against criminal gang involved in snatching cious land in eight divisions kistan, AJK and northern ar- website soon. Prospectus- retailer agent, franchises mission facilities in the a large number of citizens elements. Following these mobile phones and other of the country in its anti-en- eas. According to the admis- es for all the programs will and Mobilink, Telenor nearest and approachable while on this occasion, the orders, DIG (Operations) valuables at gun point from croachment drive conduct- sion department, university be available online on the and U bank branches. Ad- vicinities of the students. police officers concerned has directed all zonal officers the citizens. – DNA ed during last year. were also present. 38 citizens on this occa- ‘Resting heart PNCA to sion recorded their com- plaints and presented ap- rate better launch Seen plications to the CPO. The CPO also listened to indicator of Studio to remix the complaints of the cit- izens and issued orders Covid’ old songs on phone to the police of- ISLAMABAD: While tem- ISLAMABAD: PNCA will ficers concerned. perature measurements launch a mega musical se- According to a police are widely used for screen- ries titled “Seen Studio” to spokesman, the CPO is ing Covid-19 patients at the remix old songs by emerging holding Khuli Kutchery on entrances of many office singers on January 1st. daily basis to provide relief buildings or malls, a new The series named “Sur to the citizens. study suggests that a huge Surgam Sangeet” aimed to The police officers had spike in resting heart rate medley old song into mod- also been warned of strict is a more sensitive indicator ern tunes like all kinds of action on negligence and of the disease. Physiological musical genres like pop, clas- directed to address com- data from commercial wear- sical, folk and fusion. This plaints of the citizens par- ables showed increased opportunity would provide ticularly marked by the resting heart rate around a platform to new singers CPO within shortest possi- symptoms onset date that to show and discover their ble time frame, he added. was more severe for Cov- hidden talent in appropriate id-19, but present in milder way. Different recording ses- IIUI extends form for flu as well, said sions would be held with lim- the study published in the ited audience, an official said admission journal Patterns. “It’s sur- on Monday. He said that the prising to see that many trend of remixing old classics date till screening tests at building is a way of keeping the songs entrances are all temper- relevant and remixing them Dec 31st ature-based since a lot of to make them popular among ISLAMABAD: Interna- the youth who have not heard people don’t develop a fever tional Islamic University them before. He said that mu- right away and there are so Islamabad(IIUI) has ex- sical sequel was meant to pro- many things that cause fe- tended the last date for ver other than COVID-19,” vide a recreational platform to audience trapped by the submission of applica- said senior author Luca tion forms for admission Foschini, Co-founder of US- 2nd wave of pandemic which restricted the music lover’s (Spring 2020-21 semester) based health and measure- mobility. – APP RAWALPINDI: Jugglers along with their pets on the way to show tricks to earn livelihood. – APP till December 31st, 2020. ment company Evidation According to IIUI on Mon- Health. “A huge spike in day, the decision has been resting heart rate is a more taken to facilitate more sensitive indicator of Covid. candidates who intend to And for people with activi- apply for admission. IIUI ty trackers, you could ask has also been allowed to in- them permission to share COVID-19 workshops held at Panahgahs vite applications for the civil that information for screen- According to detail, CDA’s work on various residential projects is underway while considering engineering program as uni- ing purposes, just like tak- versity has been accredited ing a temperature reading.” the residential requirements of the city. Park Enclave II is one of these residential projects by Pakistan Engineering By analysing Fitbit data and ISLAMABAD: With a steep es like ‘Panahgahs’. face interaction. sults of all the service pro - help the residents fight the Council. IIUI has offered self-reported symptoms, the admission to BS/MS/PhD researchers analysed trends increase in the coronavirus Prime Minister’s Focal Per- As of now, six shelter homes viders’ COVID test came coronavirus second layer. cases, the smooth function - son on Shelter Homes Na - are operational in the twin negative. Soap kits and masks were programs in 09 faculties in heart rate, step count, including Social Sciences, and symptom duration be- ing of twin cities of Rawal - seem ur Rehman, who is cities of Rawalpindi and Is - “All the SOPs including also being distributed among pindi and Islamabad’s ‘Pan - playing a lead role in ensur - lamabad, located at various mask-wearing, sanitization, the visitors of ‘Panahgahs’ Basic and Applied Scienc- tween patients with flu and es, Management Sciences, those with Covid-19, Medi- ahgahs’ becomes crucial as ing full implementation at places including Peshawar hand washing and physical on regular basis, he added. International institute for cal Xpress reported . While it provide shelter, food and all the facilities, told APP on Mor, Tarlai, Bara Kahu and distancing are being rein - He said the management was Islamic Economics, Arabic, both showed similar-looking healthy lifestyle to the dai - Monday that at least 12 work - Fawara Chowk. Each of them forced at the twin cities shel - seriously considering to use Usuluddin, Languages and spikes in resting heart rate ly wage migrant workers on shops had been conducted has staff strength of over six. ter homes to ensure that the treated water in hand-wash - Literature, Engineering and and decreases in average daily basis. The situation recently to effectively com - Naseem said the manage - dwellers stay safe during the ing booths to help the dwell - Technology and Shariah and step count, Covid-19 symp- also prompts the shelter municate health messages to ment had started screening second wave of coronavirus,” ers to wash off the coronavi - Law. Applicants may apply on- toms lasted longer and homes’ management to take the service providers of both for the coronavirus at all of he remarked. rus from their hands. peaked later, said the study. line by visiting the IIUI website effective steps for rein - the cities’ ‘Panahgahs’. six ‘Panahgahs’ of twin cities The focal person said phys - “Our main aim is to transform or this link http://admission. The findings confirmed that forcing the standard oper - He added that every service of Rawalpindi and Islamabad ical sites of all the ‘Panah - the scope of Panahgahs from certain other symptoms are iiu.edu.pk. Male applicants ating procedures (SOPs) provider had been assigned to ascertain the prevalence gahs’ had been improved provision of food and shelter may call at 051-9019567 and characteristic of Covid but that play important role to to sensitize at least 10 dwell - of infection in dwellers and under its remodeling pro - to the fostering healthy life- not flu, like shortness of female applicants may call at breath and coughing. – APP avert the chances of virus ers each day about the an - service providers. ject. Besides, hand-washing style among the daily wage 051-9019327 for guidance and outbreak at crowded plac - ti-COVID SOPs in a face-to- To a query, he said the re - booths had been installed to earners,” he stressed. – APP details. – APP IslamabadPOST 04 TWIN CITIES Tuesday, December 29, 2020 CTO lauds Briefs efforts to regulate Govt readies traffic draft of new RAWALPINDI: Chief Traffic national Officer (CTO) Rawalpindi on Monday appreciated the traf- power policy fic wardens who worked hard to regulate traffic in Murree during Christmas holidays. DNA According to a CTP spokes- ISLAMABAD: The federal man, the CTO lauded the ef- government has prepared forts of CTP officers as good the draft of its new national arrangements were made power policy, to be present- for Murree and heavy traffic ed by June 2021. It will seek load was managed. He said approval of the policy from that over 106,000 vehicles en- the Council of Common In- tered Murree during Christ- terests (CCI). According to mas holidays, Dec 25 to 27 details, the draft proposes but the huge traffic load was six guidelines, including regulated and no unpleasant timely decision on adjust- incident occurred. ment of electricity prices, The CTO said that the traf- avoiding delay in quarterly fic wardens deployed in and monthly tariff adjust- Murree worked hard and ment as well as competition, remained on duty round transparency and efficiency. the clock to regulate traffic. Environmental responsi- The wardens showed good bility and local research performance in regulating and development are also flow of traffic on the roads included in the guidelines. of Murree, he said adding, The integrated energy plan earnest efforts were be- for the power sector is part ISLAMABAD: Sardar Yasir Ilyas, president Islamabad chamber of commerce and industry and Raja Tariq Mehmood, Chairman Rawalpindi develop- ing made to facilitate the of the policy draft, which will ment authority are exchanging documents after signing MoU of cooperation to establish a new industrial estate in the region. – DNA tourists. The spokesman focus on power generation said, Traffic Police were and transmission. The policy implementing a special will promote competition and traffic plan devised for the transparency in the sector. hill station. He said, action in accordance with the law ICCI, RDA sign MoU for was also being taken against Police devise the vehicles parked in no security plan parking zone and double parking. He said that all the for new year arrangements made to facil- developing industrial estate itate the tourists were being night Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, President, ICCI said that Pakistan’s progress and prosperity was checked and supervised by ISLAMABAD: Islamabad senior traffic police officers. police have made an elabo- linked with industrialization and hoped that the signing of this MoU between ICCI and Special directives had been rate plan for security on eve issued to the traffic war- of new year night in the city RDA would be instrumental in setting up a new industrial estate to boost investment dens to avoid traffic jam on and decided to ensure spe- the roads of Murree, he said dul Rehman Khan Vice President construction package for anoth- economy. By signing this MoU, governments. Moreover, ICCI in adding, CTP devised a com- cial deployment to maintain DNA ICCI, Khalid Javed Convener ICCI er year to attract maximum in - ICCI shall arrange preparation of consultation with RDA shall help peace and tranquility. prehensive plan for Murree Committee on New Islamabad In- vestment. He further said that technical and financial feasibility finalize modalities and SOPs for for the winter season ac- Around 2000 police person- ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad dustrial Estate, Mian Akram Farid the government should also set for industrial estate project and the sale/purchase of plots in the nel would be deployed to Chamber of Commerce & Indus- cording to which entry of Chairman Founder Group, Mu- up a real estate regulatory au - submit them to RDA for evaluation industrial estate. heavy vehicles in the city ensure foolproof security try (ICCI) and the Rawalpindi hammad Junaid Taj, Deputy Direc- thority in order to regulate the and approval. ICCI shall also help RDA shall acquire required land and keep vigilant eye dur- Development Authority (RDA) was banned. He said a Help tor RDA and others were present activities in the construction in generating partial funding for for the ICCI Industrial Estate and Line 1915 was introduced ing possible celebrations on have signed a Memorandum of in the ceremony. and real estate sector and pro - acquisition of land for industrial shall get notified of the acquired New Year night. The plan Understanding (MoU) to estab- for facilitating the tourists Speaking at the occasion, Sar- mote regulated businesses in estate while RDA shall acquire the land from the Punjab Govern- and the citizens, having was finalized by Inspector lish a framework of cooperation dar Yasir Ilyas Khan, Presi - this field. Raja Tariq Mehmood, required land from the land own- ment. RDA shall earmark the land General of Police (IGP) Mu- between the two organizations to complaints, can contact dent, Islamabad Chamber of Chairman RDA said that his organ- ers and commit industrial plots to after approval of feasibility for the Traffic Police round the hammad Aamir Zulfiqar in carry out joint efforts for the es- Commerce & Industry said ization would make all possible ef- the investors who will be provid- ICCI Industrial Estate project and clock. – APP a meeting here on Monday tablishment of an industrial estate that Pakistan’s progress and forts for the establishment of ICCI ing funding for land acquisition. determine sizes and modalities which was attended by DIG alongside the Rawalpindi Ring prosperity was linked with in - Industrial Estate as this project ICCI shall mobilize investors for for sale of industrial plots in con- (Operations) Waqar Uddin Road (R3) project on Public Pri- dustrialization and hoped that was in the best national interest investment in the industrial estate sultation with ICCI. RDA will also Three days left Syed, SSPs Security, Traffic, vate Partnership (PPP) model, to the signing of this MoU be - and would be helpful in attracting to set up small, medium and large- negotiate with the Punjab Board CTF, Safe City, AIG (Special be known as the “ICCI Islamabad tween ICCI and RDA would be local and foreign investment to the scale industries in order to pro- of Investment to acquire approv- to regularize Branch), AIG (Operations), Industrial Estate”. Sardar Yasir Il- instrumental in setting up a region. He said that the project duce manufactured and export-ori- al for this industrial estate under Additional SP and Zonal SPs. yas Khan, President ICCI and Raja new industrial estate to boost would also create plenty of new ented products. ICCI shall also SEZ model and will be responsible illegal buildings Muhammad Aamir Zulfiqar Tariq Mehmood, Chairman, RDA investment and start a new era jobs and contribute towards tax assist RDA towards formalization for developing its master plan in RAWALPINDI: The amnes- issued directions to deploy signed the MoU during a ceremo- of rapid industrial growth in revenue of the country, therefore, of the industrial estate by holding consultation with ICCI which will ty scheme for illegal do- police contingent at impor- ny held at Chamber House. Fatma the region. He urged that the its early materialization would sup- meetings with the relevant depart- then be proposed to the potential mestic structures launched tant places, shopping cen- Azim Senior Vice President, Ab- government should extend the port the efforts for stabilizing the ments of the Punjab and Federal investors for investment. by Rawalpindi Cantonment tres, main markets for the Board (RCB) will end on De- safety of public on the eve of cember 31. According to a New Year Night. He said that RCB spokesman, the board people should act as civilized Zhuang honors had launched an amnesty citizens and avoid from any Ufone committed to scheme for illegal residen- irresponsible activity on the Prof. Iqbal with tial buildings under which occasion. The IGP directed the owners had been asked all police officials to ensure friendship award prioritize its customers to legalise their illegal struc- special deployment in their tures without fines. respective areas including times and his h-index is 70. My Ufone App, UPaisaand ot. As the demand for on- of need by offering finan- The amnesty scheme was haheen anif shopping centers and main DNA By now 94 national and in- S H via Ufone’s website were line connectivity surged cial safety net to custom- announced for illegal struc- markets for the safety of ternational scholars have introduced. following a lockdown, ers against costs of hospi- tures of domestic units, ISLAMABAD: On the recom- ISLAMABAD: Pakistani the public during the night. completed their PhD de- The Super Family con- Ufone came to the forth talization at any hospital constructed before 2015, he mendation of Guangxi Nor- telecom operator, Ufone Police Commandos will be grees under his supervision. tinued to be the most with messages of hope across Pakistan. added. The owners of the mal University, the People’s reiterates its commitment also deployed at different Dr. Iqbal is D.Sc., Ph.D., sought-after product in and practical steps need- In recognition of their ef- illegal buildings were pay- Government of Guangxi to ensure the safety, secu- places apart from patrolling and C. Chem. He has been 2020 as well. Due to its ed to ensure wellbeing of forts for customer empow- ing a fee of Rs 2500 to have Zhuang autonomous region, rity and happiness of its by police officials. All police awarded by different govern- customer centric ap- our employees, partners erment, Ufone won two their building map made by province of China has de- customers as it ends the stations have been directed ments of Pakistan with Hi- proach, Ufone was able to and customers. It was prestigious Effie Awards an approved architect which cided to honor Prof. Dr. M. year 2020 on a positive to keep foolproof security lal-e-Imtiaz, Sitara-e-Imtiaz, introduce new denomina- clear that in those diffi- in 2020. Ufone won a Gold was being submitted to the Iqbal Choudhary the 2020 note. Despite the year arrangements in their area and Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. tions for it customers. cult times people needed award for Best in Internet Board for formal approval, he Guangxi Golden Silkball beingparticularly tough of responsibility while special He has been elected fellow In the Postpaid segment, encouragement, especial- & Telecom category for said and informed that three Friendship Award for his for businesses with the ITP teams have been made to by world renowned science new packages were intro- ly the frontline workers. its SuperCard campaign field offices had been set up outstanding contribution COVID pandemic affect- ensure smooth flow of traffic academies named Acad- duced that address post- On the occasion of Inde- Budget bamuqablabefikri in Allahabad for the residents to the economic and social ing companies across the on the occasion. DIG (Op- emy of Sciences for the paid base requirements. pendence Day of Pakistan, and a Bronze award in of Ward Number 1 & 10, Val- development of Guangxi. world, the telecom sector erations) Waqar Uddin Syed Developing World, Islamic A positive word of mouth Ufone dedicated 2020 to Best and Internet & Tele- ley Road for Ward Number The award comprises upon stepped up to play a very would overall monitor traffic ar- World academy of Scienc- was experienced on social the Real Heroes of the com for Balochistan Foot- 2,3,4,8 & 9 and ‘Baraf Khana, a Medal and RMB 100,000 important role. Ufone rangements while Anti-Terror- es, Pakistan Academy of media about the simplicity country, encouraging re- ball Cup 2019. Masrial Road’ for Ward Num- bonus and the prize-award- lauds the role of its fra- ist Squad (ATS) Commandos, Sciences, Royal Society of offered in the new Prime silience and services of The brand also went on to ber 5, 6 & 7. He said, special ing ceremony will be held in ternity in connecting Lady Commandos, all DSPs Chemistry, and Chemical Packages. In parallel, the frontline workers dur- win two Eventex Global awareness campaign had also China in March 2021. people and developingag- and Inspector would perform Society of Pakistan. Prof. Ufone undertook a com- ing Covid-19. This cam- Awards in Gold catego- been launched through ban- Prof. Dr. Muhammad ile strategies promptlyto patrolling duties in various ar- Iqbal has been honored by prehensive Coronavirus paign garnered apprecia- ries for Ufone Balochistan ners, posters and newspapers Iqbal Choudhary is world adapt to the new normal eas. He also directed for strict the President of Iran with relief and support effort tion from the public and Football Cup this year- an ads. To a question he informed renowned medicinal during this period. In the action against those involved in Khwarizmi International worth PKR 1.9 Billion for helped Ufone further its initiative to create oppor- that a special operation against chemist. He has published course of these challeng- one-wheeling, racing, fire-works Award, President of Azer- the PM Relief Fund. The corporate reputation and tunities for young sports- illegal constructions in com- 1,175 research papers in ing times, Ufone adopted and aerial firing. – APP baijan, with ECO Award in package aimed to help the connection with its men of the province. mercial areas would also be the fields of organic and a multi-pronged strategy Education and the Prime people across the country customers. The brandal- Amongst 444 entries from launched soon. – APP bioorganic chemistry in Minister of Pakistan with to facilitate its custom- to stay connected and pro- so collaborated with Paki- 39 countries, the Ufone Bookme.pk international journals, 76 COMSTECH Award in ers by providing conven- vide access to facilities, stan Red Crescent Society emerged as the winner books and 40 chapters in Chemistry. He has been ience and satisfaction. mainly food and health- (PRCS) to create wide- in two categories i.e. Peo- Commissioner and Telenor books published by major given the prestigious title As a principal approach, care, to the most vulnera- spread awareness about ple’s Choice Award and Pakistan US and European press. of “Distinguished National to curb the spread of vi- ble communities. Coronavirus, and assisted Best CSR Event Award. allots 22 Kanal He has secured 40 US Professor” by the Higher rus, digital services to The real challenge in volunteer registration The company joined land for Cattle join hands patents so far. Education Commission in facilitate online transac- emerged during COVID-19 through its helpline 1030. hands with Universal Ser- Dr. Iqbal’s work has been cit- 2004 and Meritorious Pro- tions and subscriptions outbreak due to a rapidly Likewise, it partnered vices Fund to expand its Market ed by the researchers from fessor by the University of for customers, such as evolving landscape, but with MicroEnsure to bring services to underserved Abrar Khan around the world by 27,407 Karachi in 2013. recharging balance using the brand was quick to piv- financial security in times areas of Balochistan. RAWALPINDI: Commission- ISLAMABAD: Bookme.pk, er Rawalpindi Capt (retd) one of Pakistan’s most widely Muhammad Mehmood has used platforms for booking said that 22 kanals of valu- tickets online, has partnered able government land has with Telenor Pakistan, one of been allotted for Chhani the country’s leading telecom ‘Media’s role vital in protecting rights of PWDs’ Alam Sher Cattle Market and operators. Through this part- also directed the authorities nership, over 46 million users The President said that as there was lack of data about special persons, the survey concerned to make Chhani of Telenor Pakistan will be being conducted under the Ehsaas Program will be completed by June 2021 Alam Sher Cattle Market ful- able to recharge their mobile ly functional with in shortest possible time. He said this balance and buy packages and ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif and also the persons with visual bundles through the Bookme. while presiding over a meet- Alvi on Monday stressed that me- and hearing impairment at regular ing of Cattle Market Manage- pk app/website. Telenor Paki- dia can play an important role in schools instead of separate insti- stan and Bookme.pk are nur- ment Committee, Rawalpindi protecting the rights of Persons tutions, which resulted in their de- Division. The meeting was turing cross industry partner- with Disabilities (PWDs) and elimi- tachment from mainstream. ships to further strengthen the attended by Director Local nating the negative attitudes in the He said free education for special Government Amna Rafique, country’s digital ecosystem. country and society. He said that persons from primary to university This collaboration enhances EDO Finance and Planning the government, in order to make level was under consideration, while Maleeha Jamal, Director customer experience through special persons active members of efforts were afoot to also provide smooth and seamless trans- Livestock and Dairy Devel- the society, was taking all possible them professional and technical opment and other concerned actions. “We’re continuously measures including the provision of skills. Dr Alvi said special people exploring new channels to officials. Commissioner free of cost education to them from were playing an important role in facilitate our customers and Rawalpindi Captain (Retd) this partnership is a testa- primary school to university level. national development and men- Muhammad Mehmood said ment to that commitment, The President expressed these tioned that their contribution had that Chhani Alam Sher could shared UmairMohsin, Chief views in an interactive session with also been acknowledged through be a successful cattle market Marketing Officer, Telenor senior journalists regarding issues (MoU) with China for the promo- ness about PWDs, he added. registration with National Database conferment of Presidential Awards. due to its location on the Pakistan. “During the pandem- of PWDs here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. tion and production of assistive The President said that as there was and Registration Authority (NAD- The President said the government main highway and it is cen- ic, social distancing is highly He said the government had dis- technology for PWDs in Pakistan. lack of data about special persons, RA), adding, there was a need to through National Vocational and tral in Rawalpindi district recommended so in collabo- tributed health cards among over The President lauded the role of the survey being conducted under make this procedure simple and Technical Training Commission so steps should be taken to ration with Bookme.pk we’re 26,000 persons with disabilities to media in creating awareness about the Ehsaas Program will be com- easy. The President said that as the (NAVTTC) had inked a Memoran- make it a success. He said addressing the fast-evolving facilitate them in access to medical breast cancer in the country which pleted by June 2021. special persons besides difficulties dum of Understanding with China that all the affairs of the needs of today’s digital citizens facilities. The President mentioned helped in saving of precious human He said though the number of spe- in mobility also have to face discrim- under the Belt and Road Initiative Cattle Management Market whereby flexibility of recharge that under Ehsaas programme, lives due to the diagnosis of the dis- cial persons showed in census was ination and negative attitudes in the for promotion of high-quality as- Committee should be carried and a product/bundle pur- around two million disabled people ease at early stage. He further said 2%, but according to a survey the society, media can play its role to sistive technology for disabled per- out on merit and to the best chase is becoming a necessity would be provided financial assis- that media was also playing effective real number of PWDs in the country discourage such attitudes. sons. He called upon media in the of its ability and if there is not only for ourselves but also tance. He said that the government, role in creating awareness about was 15%, and they lack appropriate “We have to be compassionate country to sensitize public about the a shortage of staff then the for our extended friends and under the Chinese Belt and Road women empowerment through facilities. He said with the minimum about special persons,” he stressed. problems faced by disabled persons cooperation of the Local Gov- family circle. Initiative (BRI), has also signed a their financial inclusion. Special day reported numbers, the special The President stressed providing and also raise awareness on being ernment Department can be Memorandum of Understanding was also observed to create aware- persons have to face difficulties in education to physically disabled considerate towards them. – APP sought. – APP Tuesday, December 29, 2020 05 IslamabadPOST Pakistan’s First And Only Diplomatic Daily Editor-in-Chief: Ansar Mahmood Bhatti Defeating polio Deputy Editor: Abid Raza EU ban HE Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) for ABC CERTIFIED UST as the Aviation Minister expressed high Polio, while comparing Pakistan’s different hopes for the lifting of the EU ban for PIA, the T strategies against COVID-19 and Polio, rightly Vol: 01 Issue: 236 J body itself has announced plans to extend it by asked our government about its inability to eradicate Email: [email protected] another three months, at least until further inspec- polio. One can only agree that the country should be Phone: 051-2266165 / 051-2261960 tion by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). In the able to handle polio as well, now that the government Off: Awan Plaza, Block 18-A, G-8 Markaz Islamabad end, what we see is a serious discrepancy between has proved that it can bring the pandemic under con - government perceptions of the political climate sur- trol. Sadly, we have recorded 82 cases of type-I and rounding the PIA versus actual reality. 104 of type-II poliovirus this year. The numbers will grow further as the year has yet to conclude. Since Considering the gravity of the implications of the fake 2019, Pakistan has been struggling against the rising pilot license issue, there is a glaring trust deficit be- number of polio cases. tween global aviation authorities and those of Paki- If the fear of COVID can prompt the government to ac- stan’s. If we are to see PIA become operational within tivate all its resources against the pandemic, why is po- the EU again, protect a rapidly eroding market and lio, which is crippling our future, not taken seriously? regain the respect earned through years of strife and Our inability to curtail the spread of the type-II virus, display of competency, then more must be done by according to the experts, is a threat to other countries the government. However, as it stands, authorities do as well. Iran has already become vulnerable since type- not seem to be on the same page as the EU, and thus II has already been detected in sewage there. As if be- may not be giving the issue the attention it requires. ing the only country unable to eradicate polio was not It is imperative for all our efforts to be focused towards enough, Pakistan is now blamed for spreading it to oth- mitigating the losses incurred through this unfortunate er countries. Polio eradication bodies have been saying oversight. Having high hopes is one thing, but going on this long ago that Pakistan’s inability to curtail the virus about the future without taking into account the actual can make neighbouring countries vulnerable. stance of important bodies is another degree of disillu- The government needs to take extra precaution to han- sion that our government cannot practice. The status dle the already problematic situation before it gets any worse. The Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on quo looks bleak for Pakistan as international flights are Health Dr Faisal Sultan needs to give more of his at- severely limited, and prohibited in certain areas of the tention to the worsening numbers of polio cases in the world. Already, PIA is losing out on its market share country. The biggest hurdle in making strides against and, with such travel bans, the aviation industry can the virus are still refusals of parents to administer the barely export again for the foreseeable future. CAA’s vaccine. If the state can ensure vaccinating every vul- audit is needed immediately so that work can begin and nerable child, defeating polio can become a reality. the country’s flag carrier can resume operations. Peace and zero hunger go hand in hand HE resurgence of hunger is one of ronmental degradation, and insufficient Second, we must position food in the most Prince Faisal Bin Farhan the greatest problems we face to- investment in agriculture. vulnerable regions by year’s end. This is & David Beasley T day. A toxic mix of widespread civil With each passing year, climate change in- not just a task for governments. We all war, poverty, and COVID-19 threatens to flicts more harm on farmers as they strug - must help. If there was ever a time to Saudi Arabia has long bring mass starvation on an unprecedent- gle to cope with rising temperatures and share, it is now. ed scale. Sadly, ending hunger and malnu - cruel cycles of flood and drought. After Third, we must take a strategic approach advocated for global trition is the one UN Sustainable Develop- harvest, an astonishing 1.3 billion tons of to aid working in tandem and with a true ment Goal on which we have failed to make food simply go to waste each year. spirit of collaboration. “Smart funding” attention to food security progress in recent years. Add COVID-19 to the global hunger equa- through multiyear and multisector dona- issues. At the recent The World Food Programme was awarded tion and we could soon see another pandem- tions can help donors have a broad impact the Nobel Peace Prize for 2020 for “its ic — a hunger pandemic as brutally relent- beyond containing emergencies. Better G20 meeting hosted in efforts to combat hunger, for its contribu- less as the virus itself. COVID-19 has taken targeting of aid to focus more on women the Kingdom, members tions to bettering conditions for peace in over 1.7 million lives already. If we allow it and girls would surely pay off, as they are conflict-afflicted areas, and for acting as a to create a second pandemic of hunger and most often the victims of malnutrition. It committed to greater driving force to prevent the use of hunger malnutrition, the cost in lives lost will be far is not enough for us to save lives if we do investments in agricultural as a weapon of war and conflict.” more devastating. Hunger and malnutrition not fundamentally change lives. Saudi Arabia has long advocated for glob- are already efficient killers, taking the lives Finally, we must build resilience in soci- development. At various al attention to food security issues. At the of over 3 million children under 5 each year. eties so they can better withstand shocks moments in history when recent G20 meeting hosted in the King- We cannot allow the spread of COVID-19 to like COVID-19 in the future. We must start dom, members committed to greater in- add fuel to that fire. with youth. School closures have ended the WFP faced funding vestments in agricultural development. The COVID-19 pandemic has eaten into school meals for 370 million school chil- shortfalls, Saudi Arabia At various moments in history when the harvests, disrupted supply chains, and dec- dren around the world and the WFP, Saudi WFP faced funding shortfalls, Saudi Arabia imated the incomes of tens of millions of Arabia, and other donors are already provid- came to the rescue of came to the rescue of those most in need households. Where food is available, each ing food assistance to strengthen nutrition those most in need by making significant contributions; in the day more people lack the money to buy it. and prevent disease among them. We can- 1970s, and during the sharp rise in food All told, 270 million people may find them - not let a generation in the developing world by making significant prices in 2008, the Kingdom made the selves in an extreme hunger crisis in 2021, become collateral damage in this pandemic contributions; in the largest cash donations to WFP by a single including about 30 million already on the — malnourished and uneducated, with little donor up to those dates, which helped the brink of starvation. hope of leading productive lives. 1970s, and during the WFP implement programs aimed at lessen- What is the way forward? First, we must If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us sharp rise in food prices in ing the impact. In 2019, the Kingdom was press all parties to honor the UN secre - anything, it is empathy. Even in wealthy na - the WFP’s fifth-largest donor through the tary-general’s call for a global cease-fire, tions, families with jobs one day could find 2008, the Kingdom made King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief which is consistent with the Kingdom’s themselves relying on government aid or the largest cash donations Center. Last year alone, the Kingdom in - policy focused on peace as its strategic food banks the next. Tens of millions in the vested $440 million in food assistance and choice and one of the most important pil - developed world today no longer take food to WFP by a single donor agricultural development in 36 countries lars of its foreign policy. for granted and share the worries of the up to those dates, which worldwide, the main focus being support to If most hunger stems from politics, we world’s poor in a way we never imagined the WFP in Yemen for the past five years. need political solutions. Brokering peace possible. Perhaps in the pain COVID-19 helped the WFP implement While starvation in conflict zones easily will not only curb outbreaks of hunger in has thrust upon us, we can finally come programs aimed at draws attention in the media, chronic hun- war zones, it will stem the surge of refu - together and work toward building a world ger does not. There are so many drivers gees and economic migrants now over- without hunger. lessening the impact behind it: Poverty, discrimination, envi- whelming many host countries. – Courtesy: Arab News What we got wrong about COVID-19 and refugees IGRANTS from the Moria camp in ern nations, we have also not seen the scale of that a staggering 77 percent of respondents had Jan Egeland Lesbos wait to board busses at Pirae - sickness and death we feared earlier this year lost their jobs or income since the start of the M us port in Athens following the coro - based on experiences in the US and elsewhere. pandemic. The remittances from relatives else - navirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, Greece. Several reasons point to why. First, families living where had dried up. Most families said they were [Goran Tomasevic / Reuters] in camp settings often have limited contact with less likely to send children back to school when Humanitarian activists Migrants from the Moria camp in Lesbos wait to local populations around them. In many coun - classes restart. The economic shock to already braced for disaster, board busses at Piraeus port in Athens following tries, such as Kenya and Myanmar, refugees can - vulnerable communities has pushed them further the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, not work, so mix less with people outside. These into destitution. but in most places, Greece. [Goran Tomasevic/Reuters] restrictions prevent much-needed integration in Many people living in conflict settings said they The coronavirus has not yet decimated refugee local economies and livelihoods but paradoxically were more afraid of the hunger pandemic brought safe programming and camps or killed displaced people in significant helped prevent the spread of the disease. Many on by COVID-19 than they were of being killed numbers, as I and many others feared in March. camps also experienced stricter lockdowns than by the disease itself. Our report found three out responsible local behaviour To date, only 32,000 of the world’s 26 million the communities outside them were bound by. of four people surveyed had had to cut meals for have prevented our worst refugees have been registered as infected by In addition, aid agencies quickly shifted program - themselves or their families. The UN issued simi - COVID-19. While this figure is likely lower than ming to COVID-19 prevention when the pandemic lar alerts on food insecurity; in one of its starkest fears from being realised the actual number due to weak testing capacity, hit. Hand-washing campaigns launched. Water and forecasts all year, it warned about possible famine even if it was tenfold higher, the spread of the soap distribution ramped up. Social-distancing striking four countries in 2021 – Burkina Faso, so far. In the world’s virus in the US and many European nations still messaging rolled out, in so much as distancing Yemen, Nigeria’s northeast and South Sudan. overshadow it. was possible. In Congo, our teams distributed aid As the new year begins, lessons must be learned largest refugee settlement Despite this, the pandemic is a much harder blow in large outdoor football fields where people could from 2020. This includes a significant injection in economically to the world’s 80 million displaced spread out. Safe programming, delivered by adapt - COVID-recovery of the world’s poorest commu - in Bangladesh, only 356 people than for those in affluent societies. Here able front-line relief workers, has no doubt saved nities. The initial financial response to the pan - Rohingya refugees had are three things we got wrong about the coronavi - countless lives. demic was fast, but there was little or no money rus pandemic, and how they will shape humanitar - Eight out of 10 refugees across the world are be - to meet the economic devastation that followed. contracted the disease out ian work in the year ahead. ing hosted by low or middle-income nations that The UN global COVID-19 appeal was less than half When the pandemic began to grip the world in often have weak health, water and sanitation sys - funded by year-end. of a population of more March, disastrous consequences were predicted tems. These systems were thought unlikely to be 2021 will start with a record 235 million people for overcrowded displacement camps in places able to support high numbers of displaced people needing humanitarian aid and protection – a 40 than 860,000, according such as Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of needing support when the pandemic hit. percent increase in just a year. And still, some to available testing by the Congo and Greece. Settlements in many of the But this has not yet been an issue as the num - donor countries have signalled they will have re - 30 crisis countries where the Norwegian Refugee bers of displaced people infected have remained duced aid budgets next year to help with their eco - December. While testing in Council, my organisation, works are cramped and comparatively low. Former refugees and migrants nomic recoveries. congested, and social distancing and stringent hy - have also stepped up to support strained nation - The world’s most vulnerable people must be in - camps is much lower than giene measures are often impossible. al health services, including in the United States cluded in global vaccine roll outs and economic Humanitarian activists braced for disaster, but in where they are on the front lines administering recovery plans. If they do not have access to vac - in resource-rich western most places, safe programming and responsible COVID-19 tests. In addition, about half of the 26 cines, the virus could yet grow and spread widely local behaviour have prevented our worst fears million refugees around the world that have been in refugee camps, and will never be stamped out nations, we have also not from being realised so far. In the world’s largest forced to flee their homes are under the age of 18. entirely. And if displaced people are not support - seen the scale of sickness refugee settlement in Bangladesh, only 356 Ro - Younger people tend to be less severely affected ed financially, they will wear the economic scars hingya refugees had contracted the disease out by the disease. of this pandemic long after the rest of us have re - and death we feared of a population of more than 860,000, according Research by the Norwegian Refugee Council car - covered. The international community must not to available testing by December. While testing in ried out across 14 countries, including a survey of punish the poorest. earlier this year based camps is much lower than in resource-rich west - 1,400 refugees and crisis-affected people, found Courtesy: Al Jazeera IslamabadPOST 06 WORLD / SPORTS Tuesday, December 29, 2020 Shibli Briefs lambasts PDM’s Indian forces From Page 01 He said the opposition lead- spreading ership believed that if they From Page 01 won, the elections were free cases are registered against and fair but if someone else them. Indian army is spread- won, elections were rigged. ing fear among unarmed It was unfortunate that Kashmiris through oppres- those who were facilitators sion and hegemony,” he in killing of Zulfikar Ali Bhu- added. The Minister said tto and tortured Shaheed these young Kashmiris are Benazir Bhutto were sitting being presented as terror- on stage with the Pakistan ists and fake cases are reg- People’s Party leadership. istered against them to mis- Shibli said that normally guide the world. events to mark the death an- The foreign minister point- niversaries are not used for ed out that the world has delivering political speeches now become aware of Indian but they utilized the event designs, adding Delhi’s con- for political point scoring. trol over illegally occupied He said it was strange that Himalayan region of Jammu the enemies of Zulfikar Ali and Kashmir is weakening. Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto “In order to throw dust in were given space to share the eyes of the world, these the stage with PPP leader- victims are presented as ter- ship. To a question about in- rorists and false cases reg- ternal differences in Jamiat istered against them,” he Ulema-e-Islam, he said that said. A report of a Turkish those who termed Fazalur news outlet lately quoted a Rehman “selected” were Kashmir police statement insiders and enjoyed good as saying that an Indian reputation and status in the army officer and two others party. Shibli said Maulana Shi- planted illegally acquired rani and Hafiz Hussain Ahmed weapons on the bodies of ISLAMABAD: Newly elected Mayor of Federal capital, Pir Syed Asad Gillani flashes victory sign with deputy mayor, Syed Zeeshan Naqvi, leader of PMLN Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and others after won the Mayor election in Islamabad. – DNA have stated that Fazal was se- three young men to pass lected whereas they were the them off as “terrorists” af- real leaders of the party. ter killing them in a staged gun battle in Shopian in July, this year. The statement is- PM slams sued late on Sunday said the officer and two others plant- U.S. bolsters support for people ed illegally acquired weap- ons and material on their maligning dead bodies after stripping From Page 01 them of their identities and “We are not under any tagged them as hardcore Taiwan, Tibet, angering China pressure from the Opposi- “terrorists” in possession of tion’s movement,” he said. war-like stores.” China has watched with growing alarm as the United States has stepped up its backing for Chi- “Their only aims is to get the Non-Reconciliation Or- nese-claimed Taiwan and its criticism of Beijing’s rule in remote Tibet, further straining a relationship dinance (NRO).” Pakistan During the meeting, the under intense pressure over trade, human rights and other issues premier was also briefed concerned spending package. The Taiwan Assurance Act of the act says sanctions should safeguard its national sovereign- about several measures over Foreign Desk China has watched with grow- 2020 and Tibetan Policy and be put on Chinese officials who ty, security and development taken by the authorities to ing alarm as the United States Support Act of 2020 both con- interfere in the selection of the interests is unwavering,” he told address the prevailing gas From Page 01 BEIJING: China expressed an- has stepped up its backing for tain language objectionable to exiled spiritual leader the Dalai reporters. The U.S. should not shortage in the country. PM Mohammad Ashraf Sehraie ger on Monday after U.S. Pres- Chinese-claimed Taiwan and its China, including U.S. support Lama’s successor. Speaking in put the parts of the acts which Imran Khan was also ap- and others, who have been ident Donald Trump signed into criticism of Beijing’s rule in re- for Taiwan’s meaningful partici- Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minis- “target China” into effect in or- praised of the government’s languishing under squalid law measures to further bolster mote Tibet, further straining a pation in United Nations bodies try spokesman Zhao Lijian said der to avoid harming Sino-U.S. initiatives on reforms in the conditions in the midst of support for Taiwan and Tibet, relationship under intense pres- and regular arms sales. China was “resolutely opposed” relations, he said, adding they energy sector. The meeting the Covid-19 pandemic in which had been included in a sure over trade, human rights On Tibet, which China has ruled to both acts. “The determination were an interference in China’s discussed the supply of elec- infamous Tihar and other $2.3 trillion pandemic aid and and other issues. with an iron fist since 1950, of the Chinese government to internal affairs. tricity and gas to industries jails. Many other senior as well as power supply and Kashmiri leaders including demand in the country. Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq re- main under house arrest. ‘CPEC now a EU nations formally give nod Pak, UAE According to a foreign office statement, these Kashmiri relations leaders have been illegally household word’ to post-Brexit trade deal arrested over malicious, From Back Page the propaganda against CPEC historical false and fabricated charges International Cooperation with facts. NI Siyi, Deputy The approval had been expected ever since the deal was From Page 01 by the Indian Government was held in Urumqi on De- Director, Office of Editor-in he said Prime Minister Im- through invoking draconian cember 26 which agreed to chief, Xinhua News Agency announced and all EU leaders warmly welcomed it ran Khan has a special in- laws promulgated in Indian broaden CPEC by inviting said that since the launch of terest in promoting bilateral been expected ever since bership in the EU’s vast be bumpy moments but we relations between the two Illegally Occupied Jammu & third country participation. CPEC, there has been close orign esk Tian Yuhong, Executive Sec- cooperation between the me- F D the deal was announced single market and customs are there in order to try countries. Speaking on the Kashmir (IIOJK). and all EU leaders warmly union will still bring incon- to do everything we can to The statement added that retary of the All-China Jour- dia houses of both countrie. occasion, the UAE ambassa- nalists Association said that He called for airing more sto- BRUSSELS: European Un- welcomed it. It still needs venience and new expens- smooth the path,” he told dor paid tribute to the people imprisonment and torturing ion nations have unanimous- of Kashmiri leaders on the CPEC is a symbol of attach- ries on CPEC which evoke approval from the EU’s leg- es for both individuals and the media. of Pakistan for their services ly approved the post-Brexit basis of their political ide- ment between Pakistan and people’s engagement. Moreo- islature, which is expected to businesses — from the need The UK left the EU almost a in development of UAE. ology and struggle against China and even a global pan- ver, he said that the media of trade deal with the United come in February. for tourists to have travel year ago, but remained within illegal Indian occupation is demic like COVID-19 could both countries need to high- Kingdom, a prerequisite for The UK’s House of Com- insurance to the millions of the bloc’s economic embrace Djibouti a true reflection of the ex- not stop the progress of pro- light the importance of the the agreement to come into mons is expected to approve new customs declarations during a transition period tremist mindset of the RSS- jects under its umbrella. He 70th anniversary of Pak-China operation on New Year’s Day. it on Wednesday. that firms will have to fill that ends at 2300 GMT (mid- delegation BJP regime which has no re- said that news exchange and diplomatic relations in 2021. Germany, which holds the Four days after sealing a free out. “Businesses will need night Brussels time, 11 pm spect for the human rights cooperation is an important Muhammad Jahanzeb Khan, EU presidency, said the de- trade agreement with the to make sure that they’re in London) on December 31. arrives today factor to promote the healthy Deputy Chairman Planning of the Kashmiri people. cision came during a meeting EU, the British government ready for new customs pro- The agreement, hammered From Page 01 development of bilateral rela- Commission gave a very com- Pakistan calls upon the in- of EU ambassadors on Mon- warned businesses to get cedures and we as individ- out after nine months of Present of Pakistan, Prime tions and smooth implemen- prehensive presentation on ternational community, par- day to assess the Christmas ready for disruptions and uals will need to make sure tense negotiations, will en- Minister of Pakistan, For- ticularly the United Nations, tation of CPEC projects. Sena- CPEC Phase two. He said that Eve agreement. tor Mushahid Hussain Sayed, CPEC is a multilayered pro- “bumpy moments” when that our passports are up sure Britain and the 27-nation eign Minister, Speaker Na- ICRC and human rights and “Green light,” said Germa- the new rules take effect on to date because they need bloc can continue to trade in tional Assembly, Army Chief humanitarian organizations, Chairman, Senate Foreign Af- ject. In the first phase which fairs Committee and Pakistan ended in 2020, the focus was ny’s spokesman Sebastian Thursday night. Businesses to have at least six months goods without tariffs or quo- and Navel Chief , President to take notice of the Indian Fischer. “Ambassadors have were scrambling on Monday before expiry on them in tas. That should help protect of Azad Jamu and Kahmir. government’s inhuman treat- China Institute commended on improving infrastructure the resilience of CPEC which and solving the issue of ener- unanimously approved the to digest the details and im- order to be able to travel the $894 billion (660 billion The delegation will also visit ment of the Kashmiri leaders provisional application of the plications of the 1,240-page abroad,” said Michael Gove, pounds) in annual trade be- deferent areas of the coun- and raise its voice for their progressed with full speed and gy. In the second phase which vigor during COVID-19. He will end in 2025, processing EU-UK Trade and Coopera- deal sealed by the EU and the the British Cabinet minister tween the two sides, and the try. Speaking in this regard immediate release from ille- said that not a single Pakistani and manufacturing industries tion Agreement as of January UK on Christmas Eve. in charge of Brexit prepara- hundreds of thousands of Chairman Senate Muham- gal Indian detention. working on CPEC sites was will be developed and efforts 1, 2021.” The approval had The end to Britain’s mem- tions. “I’m sure there will jobs that rely on it. mad Sadiq Sinjrani said that laid off. While commenting on will be made to ensure im- this visit of High powered Iran warns the recently held meeting on provement in people’s liveli- delegation is of utmost im- Joint Working Group on inter- hoods and balancing regional portance to strengthen the Israel not to national coordination, he said economic development. Ms. Saudi Arabia extends entry ban parliamentary relations be- that there will be an increased Zhao Qiao, Director, Depart- tween the Pakistan and Af- cross Gulf focus on media and think tank ment of Urdu, Asian & African rican Parliaments. He said collaboration to take CPEC Center, China Media Group amid new COVID-19 variant that Pakistan gives utmost ‘red lines’ forward. The meeting also said that the media of both priority to its ties with the TEHRAN: Iran warned welcomed third party partici- countries fought misinforma- been detected in a number of coun- around the world, including the Mid- African countries and em- Israel on Monday not to pation in CPEC. Moreover, he tion regarding Pakistani DNA tries. Exceptional cases would be dle East. On Sunday, Jordan con- phasised that parliamenta- cross its “red lines” in highlighted three objectives students in Wuhan during exempted from the entry ban, and firmed two cases of the particularly ry relations would pave the the Gulf in the final days of conducting CPEC media COVID-19 by interviewing RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Monday non-Saudi citizens are allowed to infectious coronavirus variant in a way for strong economic of Donald Trump’s presi- forum. Firstly, it is aimed to them and communicating said it was extending a ban on en - leave the Kingdom, the statement man and his wife who had arrived and trade corporation. He dency and following a re - promote and strengthen the the true perspective. try to the Kingdom by air, land and said. It added that the ministry is from Britain. Lebanon earlier an- said that there is need to ported Israeli submarine all-weather strategic part- She called for enhanced me- sea for another week. In a statement assessing the current situation and nounced on Friday that it detected increase the parliamenta- deployment. nership between Pakistan dia ties between two brotherly carried by the Saudi Press Agency suspension of travel could be fur- its first case of the new variant on a ry exchanges to steer the Foreign ministry spokes- and China. CPEC is part of countries and said that steps (SPA), the Ministry of Interior said ther extended, if necessary. flight arriving from London. agenda of economic devel- man Saeed Khatibzadeh BRI which is the biggest de- should be taken at the gov- the decision was a precautionary The new strain of the virus emerged More than 50 countries had im- opment in both the regions. stressed the Islamic re- velopmental and diplomatic ernmental level to increase measure against the spread of the earlier this month in Britain and has posed travel restrictions on Britain public would defend itself initiative of the 21st Century. people-to-people exchanges new variant of COVID-19, which had already reached several countries as a result of the new virus. Secondly, it aims to counter between Pakistan and China. Shoaib grills against any American mili- tary “adventure” in the run- ICC over up to the January 20 hando- ver of power in Washington. biased picks The statement came a week after the US Navy Fakhar awarded honourary rank of lieutenant Sports Desk announced a nuclear subma- RAWALPINDI: Former rine was being deployed to Fakhar Zaman is an Ex-Pakistan Navy Serviceman. He joined Pakistan Navy in 2007 assailor Pakistani cricketer Shoaib the Gulf, in a new show of Akhtar aka ‘Rawalpindi force directed at Iran. in Operations Branch. During early years in Service, his excellent cricket talentwas Express’ disapproved of Media in Israel have since spotted and he represented Pakistan Navy in many tournaments the International Cricket reported that an Israeli Council (ICC) after its an- submarine has crossed the stan Navy. His International debut nouncement of the Teams Suez Canal also headed DNA in cricket was in 2012 while he was of the Decade, commenting for the Gulf, a report that serving in Pakistan Navy. He par- that the cricket body has an- has not been officially con- ISLAMABAD:In order to honour ticipated in International Defence nounced an Indian Premier firmed or denied. the achievements in cricket are- Cricket Challenge Cup 2012 held League (IPL) team instead “Everyone knows what the na and association with Pakistan at Australia andwas declared Best of a world cricket team. Persian Gulf signifies for Navy, Chief of the Naval Staff Player of the tournament. His crick- In a video on his Youtube Iran,” Khatibzadeh told an Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan eting skills were recognized and channel, the former fast online news conference. Niaziconferred renowned crick- he was rewarded with Sanad-e-Tah- bowler said: “I think ICC “Everyone knows the poli- eter Fakhar Zaman the rank of seen by Chairman Joint Chiefs of has forgotten that Pakistan cies (of Tehran) regarding Honorary Lieutenant in Pakistan Staff Committee (CJCSC). is also ICC’s member and security and national se- Navy. A special epaulette award Pakistan Navy observedprofound plays cricket internationally. curity... Everyone knows ceremony was held at Naval Head- cricket skills and extraordinary They missed out on an ace very well how high the risk quarters to mark the event. talent of Fakhar Zaman and gra- Pakistani batsman like Ba- is raised if the red lines of Fakhar Zaman is an Ex-Pakistan ciously provided him the oppor- bar Azam who is already a Iran are crossed.” Navy Serviceman. He joined Paki- tunity to continue his career in top T20 batsman. They did Tehran accuses its region- stan Navy in 2007 assailor in Oper- Cricket and joinPakistan National not even include a single Pa- al foe Israel of responsibil- ations Branch. During early years Cricket squad. During the course kistani player.” “These peo- ity for several anti-Iranian in Service, his excellent cricket of time, his major achievements ple left because cricket was operations, including the talentwas spotted and he repre- in cricket field include match materialised. Why did you assassination last month of sented Pakistan Navy in many tour- winning century against India in give permission to start 10 nuclear scientist Mohsen naments. His performance in the final of ICC Champions Trophy in leagues? You gave permis- game remained exceptional and he Fakhrizadeh. – APP 2017, in which he was declared as sion in order to rake money earned numerous laurels for Paki- “Man of the Match”. out of cricket,” he said. IslamabadPOST 07 BUSINESS / WORLD Tuesday, December 29, 2020 South Africa Briefs crosses one million cases Jakarta of COVID-19 allows burial outside Web Desk JOHANNESBURG: South special Africa has reported at least cemeteries one million cases of coronavi- rus since confirming its first case in March, the Ministry DNA of Health said late on Sun- JAKARTA: The Jakarta pro- day, only days after a new vincial government has al- faster-spreading variant of lowed the burial of those dy- the virus was confirmed to be ing of the novel coronavirus breaking out in the country. disease (COVID-19) outside “Today, we have breached special public cemeteries. one million cumulative cases The special public cemeter- of COVID-19 in South Africa, ies reserved for COVID-19 with a cumulative total of victims have run out of space 1,004,413 cases reported,” for graves for those succumb- the ministry said in a state- ing to COVID-19, Pondok ment. The total number of Ranggon public cemetery of- deaths rose to 26,735. ficial in charge of the burial The outbreak in the worst- of COVID-19 victims, Muhae- hit country in Africa appears min stated here on Monday. to be accelerating with the The Jakarta administration one million mark crossed has issued several criteria nine days after the country for the burial of COVID-19 reported 900,000 cases. It victims outside the Pondok took two weeks for South Af- Ranggon Public Cemetery in rica to reach 900,000 cases, East Jakarta and Tegal Alur compared with the 800,000 Public Cemetery in West Java, he remarked. in early December. “The shortage of space for Several hospitals and medical COVID-19 graves has oc- centres have reported wards curred since November 8, overflowing with patients 2020. At this moment, space with many healthcare work- has run out for the burial of ers cancelling their holidays COVID-19 victims,” he point- ISLAMABAD: Advisor to the Prime Minister on commerce & investment Abdul Razak Dawood addressing to tackle a huge influx of ed out. Hence, the manage- opening session of 8th Afghanistan-Pakistan transit trade coordination authority (apttca). – DNA patients. Mediclinic Interna- ment of public cemeteries tional, among South Africa’s has allowed COVID-19 vic- top three private hospital tims to be buried in the same networks, said on Sunday graves as their relatives, who that a severe rise in cases had had died earlier. placed immense strain on its A COVID-19 grave should Pak, Azerbaijan mull opening healthcare resources includ- be 90 centimeters wide and ing staff, equipment and beds 210 centimeters long in pro- for seriously ill patients. portion to the size of coffin, he revealed. “The distance Chinese between the grave and resi- Azerbaijan’s trade house dent’s well must be at least delegation 50 meters,” he remarked. It was noted that the implementation of comprehensive measures to revive Azerbaijan’s meets Indonesia to liberated lands will further strengthen regional and international cooperation and Nepal PM close border increase investment opportunities in the Karabakh region to foreign and the great victory of Azerbaijan, em - Moreover, the meeting covered issues Additionally, Pakistan’s Commerce Min- Foreign Desk DNA phasizing that Pakistan’s unwavering on Azerbaijan’s economy, measures to ister, Co-Chairman of the Joint Working BEIJING: A Chinese dele- nationals support and solidarity with Azerbaijan combat the coronavirus pandemic, the Group Muhammad Sualeh Faruqui con- gation reportedly held talks BAKU: Azerbaijan and Pakistan dis- was highly appreciated in the country. country’s transportation and transit ca- gratulated Azerbaijan on its victory, not - with Nepali Prime Minister cussed the possibility of opening Azer- It was noted that the implementation pabilities, and export potential. ing that Pakistan attaches special impor- Web Desk Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli baijan’s Trade House in Pakistan, the of comprehensive measures to revive A number of proposals, including holding tance to the development of cooperation and President Bidya Devi Economy Ministry has reported. JAKARTA: Indonesia has Azerbaijan’s liberated lands will further virtual business forums to intensify mu - with Azerbaijan. The meeting was attend - Bhandari in Kathmandu on The discussion took place during the decided to temporarily close strengthen regional and international tual investments and increase trade turn - ed by the ambassadors of two countries, Sunday in a first diplomatic third meeting of the Joint Working its borders from January 1, cooperation and increase investment op- over, participation in business events in representatives of relevant structures, step by the neighbouring Group on Trade Cooperation between 2021 to prevent the entry portunities in the Karabakh region. both countries and creation of a working including Azerbaijan Foreign Ministry, power after the prime min- Azerbaijan and Pakistan held in a for - Stressing the expansion of Azerbaija- group on investment cooperation were Health Ministry, State Oil Company and of foreign nationals in view ister dissolved parliament of the spread of a new coro- mat of the videoconference. ni-Pakistani economic relations, the dep- put forward during the meeting. Food Safety Agency. a week ago. The four-mem- navirus strain in some parts The Deputy Economy Minister, uty minister noted that 2,085 Pakistani The parties discussed the possibility of It should be noted that the trade turn - of the world. “[We are] Tem- Co-Chairman of the Joint Working companies are operating in the country. opening a joint venture, expanding the over between two countries amounted ber delegation led by Guo porarily closing Indonesian Group Rovshan Najaf underlined the In addition, he invited Pakistani busi - legal framework in the field of food secu - to $10 million during the period of Janu - Yezhou, a vice minister in the borders, from January 1 to high level of political and economic re - nessmen to take advantage of opportu - rity and trade, investment in the textile, ary-October 2020. Of the total turnover, international department of 14 of 2021, for foreign na- lations between two countries. nities created in the Azerbaijani industri - pharmaceutical and energy sector, and the export of Azerbaijani goods to Paki - the Communist Party of Chi- tionals from all countries,” He briefed the participants on the lat - al parks and invest in agriculture, light the development of cooperation between stan amounted to $694,940, while import na, arrived in Kathmandu on Minister of Foreign Affairs, est Armenia’s military provocations industry, pharmaceuticals, tourism, etc. small and medium-sized businesses. from Pakistan amounted to $9.3 million. Sunday to assess the political Retno Marsudi, said at an situation following the rift in online media conference on the governing Nepal Com- Monday. The regulation was munist Party (NCP). China made after a limited cabinet Trump signs Armenia violates cease-fire has poured millions of dollars meeting earlier the same into Nepal in recent years day, and will be officially in aid and infrastructure in- enacted later through a new COVID relief bill vestment as it incorporates circular letter from the COV- again in Nagorno-Karabakh the country in President Xi ID-19 task force. detachment of six remnants of the actions taken, all six when the Armenian military Jinping’s Belt and Road Initi- However, high-ranking for- amid pressure DNA of the Armenian armed forc- members of the illegal Ar- occupied Nagorno-Kara- ative project. In the past few eign officials and represent- years, many Nepali commu- checks per adult and $600 es attacked the units of the menian armed group were bakh, recognized as an atives (ministers or above) BAKU: Armenian forces nist leaders have visited Chi- Foreign Desk per child,” Trump said in a Azerbaijan Army in the di- annihilated,” the ministry Azerbaijani territory, and from foreign countries will in Nagorno-Karabakh vio- rection of the Aghdam (Aka- said on Twitter. seven adjacent regions. na for “training programmes” statement announcing he be excluded from the reg- lated cease-fire on Sunday ku) village of the Khojavend It also warned against When new clashes erupted amid growing engagements WASHINGTON: US Presi- had signed the bill. ulation on account of tight and martyred an Azerbaija- region. “A serviceman of “firm measures” by the on Sept. 27, the Armenian between the NCP and the dent Donald Trump, on hol- White House deputy press health protocols during offi- ni soldier, the Azerbaijani the Azerbaijan Army, sol- Azerbaijani Army if such a army launched attacks on Chinese Communist Party. cial visits. Foreign nationals iday in Florida, has finally secretary Judd Deere said Defense Ministry said on dier Ganbarov Elmir Rayil case happens again. civilians and Azerbaijani Sandwiched between China arriving in Indonesia up to signed a $2.3 trillion finan- the president was “send- Monday. “On December 27, was killed and soldier Al- Relations between the for- forces and violated sever- and India, politics in Nepal is December 31, 2020 may be cial package that is crucial ing a strong message” that at about 15:30, an illegal iyev Emin Suleyman has mer Soviet republics have al humanitarian cease-fire also influenced by the priori- allowed to enter the country to millions of jobless Amer- “wasteful items” needed to Armenian armed group or a been injured. As a result been tense since 1991 agreements. ties of its giant neighbours. if they show negative results icans, after coming under be removed from the bill on a PCR test from their pressure from legislators. and added that a “redlined” point of origin. The test The White House confirmed version would be sent back India’s should have been issued a the outgoing president had to Congress with a require- maximum of 48 hours before signed the bill shortly after ment that such items be re- COVID-19 departure. Visitors will also he tweeted: “Good news moved from the bill. tally rises to have to take an additional on Covid Relief Bill. Infor- Other conditions include a PCR test on arrival. mation to follow.” Trump, review and possible repeal After the test, they will be re- 10,207,871 who has been pictured play- of Section 230, under which quired to undergo a five-day NEW DELHI: India’s ing golf at his Mar-a-Lago social media giants cannot isolation and take another COVID-19 tally rose to resort over the Christmas be held legally responsible PCR test later, Marsudi in- 10,207,871 on Monday, as weekend, had been under for objectionable words, formed. “If the results are 20,021 new cases were reg- pressure from legislators on photos or videos that peo- all negative, then the visitors istered during the past 24 both sides to stop blocking ple post to their platforms. would be allowed to continue hours, the latest data from the pandemic aid and gov- Deere says Congress also their trip,” she added. the federal health ministry ernment funding bill, which agreed to “focus strongly showed. Sunday was the had been approved by Con- on the very substantial vot- first time in six months Bangladesh gress last week. er fraud” in the November when the number of new The Republican president elections. There is no ev- sends more cases had fallen below the had demanded the bill be idence of such fraud and 20,000-mark. According changed to increase the the courts have thrown out Rohingya to to the data, the death toll size of stimulus cheques Trump’s efforts to bring le- mounted to 147,901 as 279 remote island for struggling Americans gal action. COVID-19 patients died to $2,000 from $600, put- The financial package since Sunday morning. ting not only the enormous passed with wide margins Foreign Desk There are still 277,301 ac- package of economic and in the House and Senate tive cases in the country, DHAKA: Bangladesh on public-health assistance at and with the understanding while 9,782,669 people Monday began relocating risk, but the basic function- of members of both parties have been discharged so far the 2nd batch of Rohingya ing of the government itself. that Trump supported it. from hospitals after medi- refugees to a remote island, “I have told Congress that The bill had to be signed by cal treatment. Sunday was amid concerns from rights I want far less wasteful midnight on Tuesday (05:00 groups. Speaking to Anad- also the first time in sever- spending and more money GMT) to ensure the feder- olu Agency over the phone, al months when the total going to the American peo- al agovernment did not run a Rohingya refugee set to be Active Caseload had fallen ple in the form of $2,000 out of money. BAKU: Provision of Azerbaijan Army units in liberated land of Karabakh are being improved. – DNA relocated said that 15 buses below 280,000. carrying nearly 1,000 refu- Meanwhile, the federal gov- gees started their journey ernment has ramped up COV- to Bangladesh’s southern ID-19 testing facilities across port City of Chottogram the country, even as more from Cox’s Bazar on Monday Russia vows retaliation over missiles deployment than 160 million tests have noon. “We hope that Bang- been conducted. As many ladesh will keep its com- “If our call fails to meet with support and US missiles begin to be deployed in Europe, as 168,818,054 tests were mitment to us of providing we reserve the right to take proportionate retaliatory measures,” Fomin warned conducted till Sunday, out opportunities of better life of which 715,397 tests were with freedom of movement, sive Arms) and simultaneously get the treaty that will expire on Feb- tions in the field of arms control ance with the INF on February conducted on Sunday alone, scopes of earnings, health according to the latest data is- care and education,” he said, Foreign Desk down to joint work to draft a new ruary 5, 2021. that impede attempts at trying to 2, 2019 after accusing Russia of sued by the Indian Council of preferring not to be named. agreement that would take into “If our call fails to meet with sup- achieve global supremacy.” alleged violations. Moscow, how- Medical Research (ICMR) on Like the previous Rohing- MOSCOW: Russia’s Deputy De- account all factors influencing port and US missiles begin to be ever, dismissed all of Washing- ya batch, members of the fense Minister Alexander Fomin strategic stability,” Fomin said in deployed in Europe, we reserve “After quitting the ABM Treaty in ton’s claims while making its own Monday. Delhi has been one 2nd group will also stay a has criticized US refusal to ex- an interview with local daily Rossi- the right to take proportionate 2002, the US terminated the In- counterclaims over the American of the most COVID-19 affect- night in Chottogram and tend the New START arms con- iskaya Gazeta on Sunday. retaliatory measures,” Fomin termediate Nuclear Forces Treaty non-compliance with the treaty, ed places in the country. As sail out to Bhasan Char is- trol treaty as well as its plans to “In the light of the current politi- warned. (INF),” he added, noting that in ef- namely the US deployment of mis- many as 757 new cases and land through the sea route deploy missiles in Europe, vowing cal situation in the United States, The deputy defense minister forts to minimize the negative im- sile defense systems in Europe. 16 deaths were registered in by the host country’s navy to take “proportionate retaliatory we do not rule out that the US then underlined that the US had pacts of the US withdrawal from Fomin further pointed to the the national capital through ships on Tuesday morning. measures.” stance on this issue may change,” persistently pressed ahead with a the INF, “Russia asked NATO growing air and naval activities by Sunday.So far as many as “We are fully ready to re- “Russia invited the United States Fomin added, while insisting that policy of building up its military countries to join its moratorium members of the US-led NATO mil- 10,453 people have died in ceive the new arrivals at to prolong the New START (Meas- the American side has different potential, saying, “On a variety of on the deployment of intermedi- itary alliance, warning that such the national capital due to the Bhasan Char. ures for the Further Reduction priorities, for which reason it has far-fetched pretexts, the American ate and shorter range missiles.” moves may be fraught with the COVID-19, the Delhi’s health and Limitation of Strategic Offen- shown little interest in extending side has relinquished its obliga- The US suspended its compli- risk of major incidents. department confirmed. IslamabadTUESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2020 | P WWW.ISLAMABADPOST.COM.PKOST Dialogue Briefs only for PML N wins China to remain Pakistan’s national cause Islamabad ISLAMABAD: Special Assis- top priority: FM Qureshi tant to Punjab Chief Minister Mayor on Information Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan on Monday said election Accordind to the Foreign Minister, during the last decades, Pakistan and China that government has given priority to national interest DNA had come very close diplomatically, strategically and in the business sector whereas opposition parties have always ignored the in- ISLAMABAD: Pakistan hance cooperation,” he said. work of CPEC is increasing Chi- Islamabad-Beijing ties have main- DNA Accordind to the Foreign Minis- na’s investments in Pakistan’s tained their strategic direction and terests of Pakistan for their Muslim League (N) has re- personal gain. Talking to a tained its Mayor Islamabad ter, during the last decades, Pa- energy and infrastructure sectors. stability due to the convergence of ISLAMABAD: Friendship and Private news channel, she seat by winning the elec- kistan and China had come very Expanded avenues of bilateral interests and mutual trust. enhanced partnership with Iron said the opposition parties tion. Pir Adil Shah of PML close diplomatically, strategically cooperation have led to the emer- With the commencement of de- Brother China will remain the top had only formed the alliance N won the Mayor seat be and in the business sector. gence of new dynamics in bilateral velopment work under CPEC, a priority of Pakistan’s foreign poli- under PDM to protect the getting 43 votes. The seat “We are already cooperating in relations. With increased inter-de- flagship project of Belt and Road cy in the year 2021, the country’s wealth accumulated through fell vacant after the resigna- all sectors. In 2021, we will try to pendence, both countries are also Initiative (BRI), both countries top diplomat said. corruption and not for any tion of Shiekh Anser Aziz. enhance trade relations and try to navigating major power interna- also increased their strategic Speaking to Gwadar Pro, Foreign political cause which would Polling for the election on complete the CPEC (China-Paki- tional politics. coordination and converged on Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi not be tolerated at any cost. the vacant seat of Islam- stan Economic Corridor) projects Beijing and Islamabad have in- emerging issues in the regional said Iron Brother China was a To a question, Dr Firdous abad’s mayor began on on time,” he added. creased their coordination for security environments and at ‘permanent special part’ of Paki- said that Pakistan Muslim Monday with both the Paki- FM Qureshi said the whole peace and stability in Afghani- multilateral forums. stan’s foreign policy. League-Nawaz (PML-N) has stan Muslim League-Nawaz country was unanimous on Paki- stan as well as at the multilateral In recent years CPEC-centric “China is our great friend. We been splitting into two groups (PML-N) and Pakistan stan-China ties. “On China (ties), forums including the United Na- cooperation has been the focus already have very close ties but where Maryum Nawaz asking Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vying the whole country is one unit. In recent years, Pakistan-China tions (UN) and Nuclear Suppliers of scholarly debate and analysis. we will try to make it even more for resignations and Shahbaz for the slot. PTI’s candidate There is never any question about relations witnessed a qualitative Group (NSG). Pakistan-China rela- Beijing has repeatedly empha- fruitful in 2021. China is always on Sharif was talking about dia- for the mayor, Malik Sajid it. All parties have the same point transformation as the bilateral tions have been resilient for dec- sized that the Pakistan-China our top priorities list. This trend logue but masses will not ac- Mahmood could not defeat of view and all of them want to ties expanded from defence to the ades despite monumental shifts relationship was a ‘model in- will never change. Every year, we cept the monarchy of Sharifs PML N candidate. see the two Iron Brothers grow economic sphere. and transformations in the geo- ter-state relationship’ to be em- (Pakistan and China) will only en- anymore. – DNA Meanwhile, independent together,” he maintained. The cooperation under the frame- strategic landscape of South Asia. ulated by other states. candidate Azhar Mahmood was also contesting the elec- Rs319.5 bn tion. The Election Commis- ‘Govt to distribute sion of Pakistan had issued Saudi court jails female released for a list of 73 voters. The com- mission has ruled that depu- social sector COVID-19 vaccine ty mayors could not contest the mayor’s election. The activist for almost 6 years uplift projects upcoming mayor will stay in RIYADH: A Saudi court on Monday sentenced renowned female rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul to five years and free of cost’ office the next two months. eight months in prison, according to an opposition group. Hathloul, 31, has been held since 2018 following her ar - ISLAMABAD: Parlia- mentary Secretary rest along with at least a dozen other women’s rights activist. The verdict poses an early challenge to Crown Prince DNA for National Health Services Regula- ‘PDM’s stage Mohammed bin Salman’s relationship with U.S. President-elect Joe Biden, who has criticised Riyadh’s human rights ISLAMABAD: The Federal tions and Coordi- nation (NHSRC) record. Hathloul was charged with seeking to change the Saudi political system and harming national security, Sabq Government has released Dr Nausheen Ha- mid on Monday a hotbed of and al-Shark al-Awsat newspapers said. Rs. 319.5 billion for vari- reconfirmed that government is The court suspended two years and 10 months of her sentence - or most of the time already served since her arrest ous ongoing and new social offering free Cov- id-19 vaccination anti-Punjab on May 15, 2018 - with a conditional release to follow, the newspapers and Hathloul’s sister said. She could therefore sector uplift projects till to all citizens as it pushes ahead parties’ be released around end of February 2021, with a return to prison possible if she commits any crime, the newspapers. date under its Public Sector in the global race to achieve na- Hathloul was also given a five-year travel ban, her sister Lina tweeted, adding that both the public prosecutor and Development Programme tionwide immu- nity against ISLAMABAD: Federal Min- Hathloul could appeal the judge’s verdict. (PSDP) 2020-21. the coronavirus. Talking to ister for Science and Tech- United Nations human rights experts have called the charges “spurious”, and along with leading rights groups and The released funds include a Private news channel, nology Chaudhry Fawad lawmakers in the United States and Europe have called for her release. The criminal court last week cleared the Rs. 206.5 billion for fed- she said gov- ernment Hussain on Monday lashed prosecution of torturing Hathloul in detention, saying there was no evidence to support the allegations. Hathloul’s eral ministries, Rs.87 bil- has allocat- ed initial out at the Pakistan Demo- sentencing came nearly three weeks after a Riyadh court jailed U.S.-Saudi physician Walid al-Fitaihi for six years, lion for corporations, Rs. funding of $150 cratic Movement (PDM), al- despite U.S. pressure to release him, in a case rights groups have called politically motivated. – DNA 25.25 billion for special million to purchase leging that the Opposition’s are010as, and Rs. 750 mil- a COV- ID-19 vac- stage is a hotbed for the an- lion for the Earthquake Re- cine directly from the international market by the second ti-Punjab parties. construction and Rehabili- quarter of the next calendar year to begin immunizing The federal minister, known Maryam visits Benazir’s grave tation Authority (ERRA), its population of 220 million people, adding, phase III for his blunt remarks against according to the latest data of clinical trials of Chinese vaccines was proceeding well the Opposition parties, said released by the Ministry and free of cost shots would be available to the people that the Punjabis constitutes along with Bilawal and Aseefa of Planning, Development soon. She also mentioned that government has allowed half of Pakistan’s population. and Reform. The total the private sector to import vaccines for protection Fawad claimed that “so-called Maryam Nawaz also laid petal/flowers on the graves of martyrs Benazir PSDP allocation for ERRA nationalists have swindled against the novel coronavirus and front line healthcare Bhutto, Zulfikar Bhutto and others and visited photo gallery of Shuhda for the year 2020-21 is Rs. workers will be at the top of the vaccine priority list. billions of rupees and abuse 1.5 billion. Punjab to deceive their sup- In the second stage, the elderly and at risk-population for the Pakistan Demo- Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, Bilawal Bhutto drive the car Similarly, Rs. 55.2 billion will get the vaccine and lastly, the common people, she porters”. “On average, Rs400 Nazir Siyal cratic Movement (PDM) Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhu- with Maryam Nawaz and led out of PSDP allocation of billion are transferred to added. Replying a Question , she said government has leaders and the party tto, Mir Murtaza Bhutto, him to the different corners Rs. 118.67 billion has been already started tracking passengers who have arrived in Balochistan every year. Ba- LARKANA / NAUDERO: here on Monday. Shahnawaz Bhutto, Begum of the Mazar building on the released for the National the country from the United Kingdom after a new coro- lochistan’s population is just Pakistan Peoples Party PML-N woman leader Nusrat Bhutto and others. second-floor visit. Highway Authority, Rs.31.8 navirus strain was discovered in England. She said gov- 10 million, where did the mon- Chairman Bilawal Bhu- Maryam Nawaz along with Maryam Nawaz also laid During the visit of Garhi billion out of Rs. 158.3 ernment is tracing and testing people and those who test ey go?” Fawad’s comments tto Zardari with PML-N PPP Chairman Bilawal petal/flowers on the Khuda Bux, PML-N lead- billion for the National positive for the virus will be placed under quarantine, come a day after the leaders Vice President Maryam Bhutto Zardari, Asefa and graves of martyrs Benazir ers Capt. Safdar, Pervez Transmission and Dispatch adding that the new coronavirus strain in the UK was of the 11-party Opposition al- Nawaz arrived Garhi Khu- others visited the ances- Bhutto, Zulfikar Ali Bhut- Rasheed, Maryam Aurang- Company (NTDC), and Rs. very dangerous. “The virus has the capability to spread liance gathered in Larkana to da Baksh after the Lunch tral graveyard of Bhutto to and others and visited zeb, Sherry Rehman Jamil 45 billion out of Rs. 81.2 mark the 13th death anniver- and dinner hosted by family and offered Fateha photo gallery of Shuhda Soomro were also present billion for the for the Water rapidly from an infected person,” she added. She also sary of former premier Bena- Naudero Bhutto House prayers at the Mazars of on the occasion. on the occasion. Resources Division. said that the coronavirus vaccines will be equally effec- zir Bhutto. – APP tive against the new mutant of the virus and there is no reason to panic. She said the transmissible of the new strain is a bit higher but this does not mean it is more 134kg of chars lethal and more people are going to die due to it. – DNA recovered from ambulance 1,974 new cases; DNA 55 deaths reported QUETTA: As much as 134 kilogrammes of Chars [hash] ISLAMABAD: The national tally of total active COVID-19 cases was recovered from an ambu- in Pakistan on Monday reached 39,488 with 1,974 more people lance that was transferring tested positive for the deadly virus and 1,760 people recovered a coronavirus patient from from the Coronavirus during the last 24 hours. Fifty Five coro- Quetta to Karachi. The mat- na patients, 50 of whom were under treatment in hospital and ter came to light when the Five in their respective homes or quarantines died on Saturday, ambulance collided with a according to the latest update issued by the National command passenger coach in the Khad and Operation Centre (NCOC). During the last 24 hours most Koocha area of Mastung. At of the deaths had occurred in Sindh followed by the Punjab. least three people, including It added that out of the total 55 deaths during last 24 hours 35 the COVID-19 patient, died patients died on ventilators. No COVID affected person was in the accident. The driver, on ventilator in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Balochistan along with another person, and Gilgit Baltistan (GB) while 321 ventilators were occupied sustained injuries. elsewhere in Pakistan. The maximum ventilators were occu- Levies officials said they re- pied in four major areas including Multan 45 percent, ICT 45 covered hash from the ambu- percent, Peshawar 36 percent and Lahore 34 percent. The lance. The drug was stored Oxygen beds (oxygen providing facility other than ventilator in a hidden compartment in as per patient's medical requirement) were also occupied in four major areas as in ICT 31 percent, Rawalpindi 32 percent, the ambulance’s roof. ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan chairing a meeting on ML-1 project. – DNA They said the matter is Peshawar 62 percent and Multan 38 percent. – APP being investigated and the driver will be questioned once he recovers. Earlier this year, Interpol had is- sued an alert that criminal CPEC now a household word” says Sadiq Sanjrani organisations are using food delivery services to Ambassador Nong Rong says CPEC plays a significant role to promote the in-depth development transport drugs and other illicit goods as countries of the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership and high-quality growth of the Belt and Road imposed lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initiative; not a single Pakistani working on CPEC sites was laid off: Mushahid Hussain Sanjrani was the chief guest. The Chairman Senate of Pakistan, in tion through the establishment and moral support to China dur- ments, business communities, me- JUI-F expelled DNA / Staff Report forum was addressed by Railways his keynote speech said that Chi- of Special Economic Zones. He ing its fight against the pandem- dia, think tanks, and other sectors Minister, Deputy Chairman Plan- na-Pakistan Economic Corridor commended the role of the media ic. Moreover, he said that the of China and Pakistan to focus on members to ISLAMABAD: The 6th Chi- ning Commission plus Ambassa- (CPEC) has achieved significant and said that it has played a very Senate passed a resolution that the construction of the CPEC. na-Pakistan Economic Corridor dors of both countries. milestones through joint efforts important role in the dissemina- acknowledged China’s robust Pakistan’s ambassador to Chi- meet today (CPEC) Media Forum was held Zheng Qingdong, President and of the governments, enterprises, tion of facts on CPEC which has measures to deal with corona- na, Moin ul Haq said that in this here in Islamabad. The forum Editor-in-Chief of Economic Dai- and peoples of both countries. resulted in CPEC becoming a virus and commended their ef- digital age, the media is playing DNA was jointly organized by the Pa- ly, and Mustafa Hyder Sayed, Ex- The first phase of CPEC, which household name in Pakistan. forts to make Pakistani there, a pivotal role in bolstering the kistan-China Institute (PCI) and ISLAMABAD: Maulana Mu- ecutive Director, Pakistan-China focused on energy and infrastruc- Through events like the CPEC mainly students in Wuhan, feel friendship and solidarity between China Economic Net (CEN) in hammad Khan Sherani has Institute gave the welcome ad- ture projects met its successful media forum, both countries at home during this critical time. the peoples of Pakistan and Chi- cooperation with the Embassy of said that Jamiat Ulema-e-Is- dresses. Zheng highlighted the completion and now, the second get an excellent opportuni- Chinese ambassador to Paki- na. He said that the media has the People’s Republic of China in lam-Fazl (JUI-F) expelled importance of the CPEC media phase is set to boost Pak-China ty to consolidate the existing stan Nong Rong said that as an rightly guided the public about Pakistan. It is conducted as an leaders will meet today forum and said that since it’s cooperation in agriculture and all-weather friendship. He also important pilot project of the the true significance of the CPEC annual event in Beijing and Islam- (Tuesday) to devise future launch, it has contributed a lot initiate an era of industrializa- highlighted Pakistan’s Medical Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project, which has resulted in abad in alternate years. Due to plan of action. As per details, towards building a positive public and a demonstration project of creating a national consensus on COVID-19, this year’s forum was the terminated members opinion on CPEC. China-Pakistan Cooperation, the CPEC. Moreover, he said that Pa- held virtually and was themed of the party have opened a Mustafa Hyder Sayed said that CPEC plays a significant role to kistan is the biggest proponent of “Post-epidemic China-Pakistan new front against JUI-F chief Pakistan-China Institute in col- promote the in-depth develop- BRI and endorses President Xi’s Media Cooperation”. Maulana Fazlur Rehman by laboration with China Economic ment of the all-weather strate- philosophy of shared future and The Forum conducted in-depth calling a meeting of other Net launched the CPEC media gic cooperative partnership and prosperity. He concluded by say- exchanges and discussions on like-minded members in Is- forum as an online event and it high-quality growth of the Belt ing that Pakistan and China need topics including the opportuni- lamabad on December 29. is held in Beijing and Islamabad and Road Initiative. to strengthen media cooperation ties for digital media, media as an The four senior leaders in alternate years. Last year, Pa- He said that high level and quality by screening more films in China engine for the high-quality devel- include Maulana Muham- kistan-China Institute launched participation in the CPEC media just like ‘Parwaaz hai Junoon”, opment of CPEC, and China-Pa- mad Khan Sherani, Hafiz the Rapid Response Information forum is the testimony to the fact which was the first Pakistani kistan media cooperation. It Hussain Ahmed, Maulana Network (RRIN) which identifies that CPEC has been highly valued film screened in China in the last was moderated by Zoon Ahmed Gul Naseeb and Maulana fake news on CPEC and decon- in Pakistan. Since its inception in 45 years. He said that JWG on Khan, anchor of China Econom- Shuja-ul-Mulk. structs them with Facts. 2015, CPEC Media Forum has ic Net. Chairman Senate, Sadiq Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, brought together the govern- Continued on Page 06 Published by Ansar Mahmood Bhatti, Printed at Rohani Art Press, Islamabad: Ph: 051-2266165, Email: [email protected]