SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT Tuesday, March 23, 2021

Arif Alvi Quaid-e-Azam Imran Khan President Muhammad Ali Jinnah Prime Minister Father of the Nation Ambassador’s Message extend heartiest felicitations to all my countrymen residing in the brotherly Pakistan Day, like last year, is being commemorated under the shadow of the global of Qatar and in making it a remarkable success The State of Qatar on the auspicious occasion of the National Day of Pakistan. It Coronavirus pandemic. Very rarely a calamity has such a worldwide impact as we story of our era. Our workforce has made significant was on this day in 1940 when the Muslims of the subcontinent through their have witnessed over the past one year. It is the responsibility of all segments of our contribution in key institutions of Qatar such as the Icollective will expressed unwavering resolve to carve out a separate homeland community to play their due role in preventive measures against the virus. armed forces, police, health, education, banking Pakistan for themselves where they could lead their lives in accordance with their faith, and civil aviation. The hospitality and respect traditions, values and culture. Qatar’s response to the unprecedented coronavirus has been an almost unrivalled offered to Pakistanis in Qatar is a reflection of the Supplement team success story. Very few countries in the world have been able to deal with this crisis affection that binds our two countries. Today, we pay homage to Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, like Qatar has done. The timely, transparent, firm and well considered measures Advertising & Marketing Poet Philosopher Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal and all the other leaders of the taken by the authorities in the State of Qatar have gone a long way in containing On this occasion I also wish to also pay tribute to Manager freedom movement who led the struggle for the creation of Pakistan through their the spread of the viral disease. It was indeed reassuring for me, that in keeping with the patriotism, hard work and commitment of the Hassan Ali Anwari commitment, valiant struggle and unparalleled determination. its wonderful traditions, the State made no distinction between citizens, residents Pakistani community in Qatar, who every day, raise or even visitors. Medical and healthcare support of the highest standard has been Pakistan’s flag high. Our countrymen in the State of Sr. Business Development As always, our Pakistani brothers and sisters in Qatar will celebrate the day with provided to everyone who was unfortunately infected by the virus. The same holds Qatar are contributing and doing their bit for their

Manager zeal and fervor and inspiration of the national spirit-whilst conforming with the rules true in the ongoing vaccination drive. country. Apart from contributing to the development of the State of Qatar, they have Sanjai Noah of social distancing as advised by the authorities of the State of Qatar. Let us all been playing a positive role in strengthening the economy of Pakistan. Supplement Editor express our firm resolve to continue the legacy and heritage bequeathed to us by our On behalf of the Pakistani community, which considers Qatar as their second home, founding fathers and by following in their footsteps to make our country a cradle of I express appreciation for all the measures taken by the authorities for their welfare Finally, I would like to sincerely thank His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Pradeep progress, prosperity and development. during these difficult times. I am glad to state that the Embassy of Pakistan received the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir, Layout continuous support from all the concerned government departments in this regard. His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani the Prime Minister A.K. Vinay Kumar The path to independence was not an easy one; it was a struggle under the visionary & Minister of the Interior, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al- and inspiring leadership of the Father of the Nation that brought Muslims of the Pakistan and the Qatar have historically enjoyed extremely cordial relations based on Advertising / Graphics Thani, Deputy Prime Minister & the Minister of Foreign Affairs and His Excellency Sub-continent under one flag. Pakistan is not just the name of a territory or a political a common faith and traditions, deep-rooted cultural affinities, geographic proximity, Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of State for Krishnamurthy entity. More than that, it is an ideal, a spirit and an aspiration to realize the very best and convergence of interests. These fraternal bonds have been carried forward and Defence Affairs, the Government and people of the State of Qatar for the patronage Circulation In-charge virtues of humanity as bequeathed by our great religion. strengthened under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and support that we have received from them. Sherif Samy Amir of the State of Qatar who has always shown great support for Pakistan. While celebrating National Day today, we should not be forgetful of those who Dear Pakistanis-Let us once again today reiterate our resolve to take Pakistan to the Printed by sacrificed their lives to achieve independence. On this occasion, I would also like Bilateral relations have been greatly strengthened in recent times. Frequent Raya Commercial Printing Press heights of glory as envisioned by our forefathers. I pray to Allah Almighty to grant us to make a special mention of the officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Armed Forces leadership level contact and exchange of high level visits have increased over the strength to serve our great country with sincerity and lead Pakistan on the path who have laid down their lives during operations against terrorism and successfully the past two years. Foreign Ministers of the two brotherly countries also remain to even greater progress and prosperity. Advertising Office eradicated the menace of terrorism from Pakistan. in regular contact. The positive engagement at the leadership level has led to a Gulf Times/Arrayah Building, substantial boost in bilateral cooperation in all fields including the political, trade, Pakistan Zindabad C Ring Road, P.O. Box 533, Today Pakistan has a strong democratic government under the leadership of His investment and defence spheres. Doha Qatar Excellency Imran Khan. The Government continues with its endeavours to make the Long live Pakistan-Qatar friendship! Tel: (00974) 4466620/43 country a true Islamic Welfare State. We are committed to establishing a society I also avail this opportunity to praise the unprecedented development and success Fax: (00974) 44310992 which is based on compassion and justice and where every person can contribute of our brotherly country under the able leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin H.E. Syed Ahsan Raza Shah email: [email protected] towards socio-economic development to the best of his or her ability. Hamad Al Thani. Pakistanis have proudly contributed in the progress and development Ambassdor of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Qatar Special Supplement 2 Tuesday, March 23, 2021 PAKISTAN DAY Pakistan-Qatar Bilateral Relations Visit of the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan to the State of Qatar in January

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani meets at his office at Al Bahr Palace with Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan General Qamar COAS witnessed passing out parade held at Ahmed Bin Muhammad Military College. Javed Bajwa.

Chief of Army Staff of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Meeting of Pakistan COAS with Lt. Gen Ghanim bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Defence affairs H.E. Dr. Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Attiyah. Visit of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan General Nadeem Raza to State of Qatar

Commander of Qatar Emiri Land Forces Major General Saeed Hassen Mohammad Al-Khayareen visited Pakistan in March, 2021. During a meeting with Army Chief General Javed Bajwa, he reviewed defense and security cooperation between the two countries and ways to enhance them.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan General Nadeem Raza met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah.

Chief of Naval Staff of Pakistan Admiral M Amjad Khan Niazi NI(M) S.BT visited the State of Qatar in March 2021. During the visit he met with Chief of Staff of Qatari Armed Forces to review bilateral military relations and means of enhancing them.

H.E. Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah hosted a dinner in the honour of Naval Chief Admiral M Amjad Khan Niazi NI(M) S.BT. Meeting with Commander of Amiri Guard Maj. Gen. Hazza bin Khalil al-Shahwani. Special Supplement PAKISTAN DAY Tuesday, March 23, 2021 3 Pakistan introduced E-Visa system for 175 countries he government of Pakistan has announced easing of travel restrictions for attracting more foreign visitors. Pakistan is offering a visa on arrival to citizens of 50 countries. At the same time, Pakistan has introduced an electronic visa system for citizens of 175 countries. TThe introduction of new visas has opened up a new era for the tourism industry in Pakistan. Pakistan has mountain tourism, beach tourism, religious tourism that are visited by large number of foreigners. Pakistan is a heaven for tourists offering natural sights, historical building, desert and mountains. Electronic visas are being introduced by many countries. An electronic visa system for Pakistan would allow foreign visitors to complete an online application with their personal details and passport data. Most electronic visa systems require that applicants pay a visa fee in order to process their application. Once approved, the e-Visa is usually sent to the traveler’s inbox. Set in South Asia, Pakistan is blessed with natural resources and historical heritage. Pakistan is one of the most fascinating destinations in Asia. The northern area has changed very little since Mughal times, which means that a lot of its natural beauty remains untouched. Besides impressive mountains, there are scatted ruins and arid desserts. There are many reasons to visit Pakistan, among them, their kind and hospitable people. The country is home to breathtaking landscapes that include valleys, rivers, glaciers, and forests. Foreign visitors will be able to visit the historical Silk Road. Nature lovers and hiking fans and experts will have plenty to explore once they arrive in this beautiful country. Visa on arrival will also be provided to Indian-origin British and American citizens holding United States or United Kingdom passports. Tour operators that are approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) will now be allowed to bring groups of tourists to Pakistan. Additionally, the process for acquiring a work visa to nationals of 96 countries for business purposes has been eased, with applicants receiving their visa in 7-10 days after the Board of Investment issues them a letter. The duration of diplomatic and student visas has been extended from one year to three years, and one year to two years, respectively, while a visa for religious purposes will remain valid for 45 days. The processing of journalist visas will be done through the information ministry and restrictions on journalists to limit their movements have been lifted. Foreign tourists will not require no-objection certificates (NOCs) to visit open cantonments, Azad Jammu and Under the new guidelines, security clearance would not be required for those seeking a short-term medical Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan. “They can go anywhere in Pakistan; they don’t need an NOC anymore.” visa or an individual work visa. Those visiting the country to get medical treatment could only go to authorised The government has also introduced the medical visa category in a recently revised policy, easing rules for hospitals. A short term medical visa of up to three months can be issued to an individual, family and attendant people seeking entry in Pakistan for health emergencies and work. to cater to emergencies. Long term LNG agreement between Pakistan and the State of Qatar n a boost to the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Qatar, after four years i.e. in 2025, which has been smartly timed with the price the two brotherly countries have signed another long-term Liquefied renegotiation option available in 2025 (10 years after the contract) under Natural Gas (LNG) supply contract for additional 200 million cubic the previous 15-years contract. feet a day (MMCFD) at around 31 per cent lower rate than the 2015 Pakistan’s new LNG agreement with Qatar has brought the economic Icontract for 500MMCFD. The 10-year agreement signed on Friday relationship between Pakistan and Qatar into a new territory. Whilst entailed the lowest-ever publicly disclosed price under a long-term Qatar has secured in Pakistan a reliable large-sized customer which contract in the world and has come to fruition after 2 years of efforts neatly fits in with its planning for enhanced production of LNG through when Prime Minister Imran Khan first visited Qatar in January 2019. expansion of the North Field project that is set to produce additional Under the new agreement, which will be effective from January 2022, LNG in 2025, Pakistan too is going to benefit enormously from this Qatar will initially deliver two ships (containing a total of around deal in the long term. Not only will Pakistan be getting LNG from a 200MMCFD of LNG) a month. Later, the supplies will be enhanced by up nearby and highly reliable source, the uncertainty associated with spot to four ships (400MMCFD) at the rate of 10.2pc of Brent. purchases will be minimized. Round-the-year supply of LNG will mean that Pakistan’s extensive gas distribution network spread across almost The total spot purchases as of December 2020 averaged at 11.90pc the entire length and breadth of the country will have sufficient gas to of Brent compared to 13.37pc of Brent in the initial three long-term operate power plants while simultaneously meeting most of the needs of contracts signed about five years ago including the 15-years agreement the industrial and domestic consumers. Pakistan signed with Qatar in 2015. The new Qatar price at 10.2pc of Pakistan’s local gas reserves are fast depleting and new discoveries Brent is also 15-16pc lower than average spot purchases of 11.90pc of are not keeping up pace with the growing demands of a nation of 220 Brent. million people. The additional LNG from Qatar will serve as a boost for Based on the volume of the new contract, Pakistan would pay about Pakistan’s manufacturing industry with its textile component showing $316 million lower cost when compared to the same volume under the signs of revival through enhanced exports. Pakistan which was facing the existing contract. In 10 years, this works out to be $3 billion. perennial problem of current-account deficit, had remained in surplus It is understood that prior to the new contract, Pakistan’s previous for a record period of five months (July-November) of current fiscal Pakistan is presenting letters of credit (LCs) worth $170 million under the contract with Qatar was meeting 57% of Pakistan’s total LNG needs. That year 2020-21, owing largely to the enhanced remittances and growing previous contract as compared to LCs worth $84 million under the new figure is now set to rise dramatically and the combined supplies from the textile exports. Increased supply of LNG from Qatar at a lower rate is contract, which is also almost half. Total supplies under the fresh contract previous and new agreements with Qatar are expected to meet most of expected to support Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) through cheaper could touch 3m tonnes compared to about 3.75m tonnes of currently Pakistan’s LNG needs for the foreseeable future, leaving very little scope production of electricity thus lowering the costs of production for the contracted quantities with Qatar. for spot purchases. The new contract has a price renegotiation option exporters. Activities of Embassy of Pakistan Ambassador Engagements

H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah congratulated Qatar-based H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah thanked Her Highness H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah called on the Minister of Pakistani medical professionals Dr. Javaid I. Sheikh of Weill Cornell Sheikha Al Mayassa Al Thani for appreciating Pakistan International Education and Higher Education of the State of Qatar H.E. Dr. Mohammad Medicine and Dr. Adeel Ajwad Butt of HMC on making PLOS Biology School Qatar’s Green School initiative. bin AbdulWaheed Al Hammadi. Both agreed to further develop bilateral Journal’s list of top 2% world scientist. cooperation in the education sector.

H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah called on H.E Ambassador Zhou Jian of the Peoples Republic of China. H.E congratulated Amb Zhou Jian H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah welcomed H.E. Ambassador Hamid H. E Ambassador of Republic of Turkey Dr. M Mustafa Goksu hosted H.E Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of on National Day of China. They discussed issues of mutual concern and Reza Dehghani-Poudeh of Iran at Embassy of Pakistan, Doha. Matters of Pakistan on a breakfast at his residence. Bilateral relations and regional developments were discussed during the meeting. agreed to continue to maintain close coordination. common interest were discussed during the meeting. Special Supplement 4 Tuesday, March 23, 2021 PAKISTAN DAY

H.E Ambassador Stefanie McCollum of Canada visited the Embassy of H.E Ambassador Ridwan Hassan of Indonesia visited the Embassy of H.E Ambassador Dr. Narad Nath Bharadwaj of Federal Republic of Nepal H.E Ambassador Rashad Ismayilov of the Republic of Azerbaijan visited Pakistan, Doha to offer condolence on sad demise of former Pakistan, Doha to offer condolence on sad demise of former visited the Embassy of Pakistan, Doha to offer condolence on sad the Embassy of Pakistan, Doha to offer condolence on sad demise of Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. demise of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. former Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali.

Embassy mourns demise of Abdul Latif Baloch Abdul Latif Baloch was born in 1947 and moved to Qatar in 1973 and joined the Pakistan Embassy on its opening. Initially, he worked on honorary basis. Until his death, Baloch served the Embassy in different capacities and handled various portfolios with dedication. He was also an active and vibrant member of the Pakistani community in Qatar and was known for his helping and kind nature. The funeral prayer for Abdul Latif Baloch was held at Abu H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah met with Mustafa Guven, H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah welcomed HE Ambassador Hamour mosque on January 31. The funeral prayer Mohamed Mafaz Mohideen Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the State of Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in Qatar, was attended by H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Qatar and congratulated on assumption of office and wished him a at the Embassy of Pakistan, Doha. Matters of common interest were successful tenure ahead. Both discussed matters of bilateral interest. discussed during the meeting. Shah, officials and staff of Embassy of Pakistan and a large gathering comprising Qataris and Pakistani community members. He was buried at his hometown Lyari in Karachi. Baloch is survived by his wife, two sons and three daughters.

H.E. Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah & Chairman Unique Trading Abdul Rehman M. Al Muftah launched 2nd showroom of Brighto Paints H.E Ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah welcomed H.E Ambassador Md 73rd Independence Day was celebrated at the Embassy of Pakistan, in Qatar. Ambassador appreciated the quality of products and services Jashim Uddin of Bangladesh at Embassy of Pakistan, Doha. Matters of Doha. A simple but solemn flag hosting ceremony was held on the eve of showroom. He further stated that Pak-Qatar trade relations have bilateral interest were discussed during the meeting. of 14th August, 2020. evolved into robust partnership. Embassy officials assisting repatriation of Pakistanis during COVID-19 Special Supplement PAKISTAN DAY Tuesday, March 23, 2021 5 Activities of Pakistani Community QSindhis organises second blood donation campaign

Sindhis, a sociocultural forum of expatriate Pakistanis Patients have always been in need of blood or blood plasma as they are from one person to another irrespective of religion, nationality, or any organised its second blood donation campaign in collaboration hospitalised with different kinds of medical conditions. By taking part in other social factor, noted Memon. Mr. Memon thanked the volunteers, with the Blood Donor Centre of Hamad Medical Corporation a noble cause like blood donation, an individual not only saves someone sponsors and organisers for making the drive successful and distributed (HMC). The humanitarian drive was held to support Qatar in else’s life but also improves their health as well. It’s a life-saving gift appreciation certificates. Qthe current situation where we must prove ourselves as a strong nation and stand shoulder to shoulder with our Qatari brothers, said Asif Qadir Memon, founder of QSindhis. Pakistani Ambassador to Qatar HE Syed Ahsan Raza Shah visited the venue and appreciated the community members for taking this humanitarian initiative. Head of Chancery Sarwar Hussain also attended the event. The campaign’s aim was to

raise awareness of the importance of blood donation as a humanitarian initiative. In addition to Pakistani community members, people from other nationalities also responded remarkably to the initiative by Pakistani Community, which encourages humanitarian activities and social responsibility. Our core committee members are proud to cooperate with the Blood Donor Centre of HMC and we would like to thank all the blood donors who came from all over Qatar to volunteer in the campaign to make it a great success,” said Memon. Blood donation has invaluable significance during every kind of health crisis. Special Supplement 6 Tuesday, March 23, 2021 PAKISTAN DAY Fields of Dreams The multi-billion-dollar flagship project has been reckoned as a game-changer and testifies to the ‘Higher than mountains and deeper than the Ocean’ ties that bind the two nations

he China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has elevated that future cooperation will focus on social development, livelihood, a more than five-decade-old strategic partnership based industry and agriculture in addition to infrastructure construction. cooperation famously dubbed as being “Higher than the The first transport project under the China-Pakistan Economic mountains and deeper than the ocean stronger than steel and Corridor (CPEC) was inaugurated in October last year. Punjab Tsweeter than honey” into a dynamic economic relationship whose province Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and Chinese officials reach and potential entwines them in an unbreakable bond. While inaugurated the project which has been completed in six years. The China would literally, expand its economic might thousands of miles overhead Lahore Orange Line Metro Train began to operate between across the region, it pitches Pakistan as the gateway for two routes: Lahore’s Dera Gujjran to Ali Town on 27Km stretch. As many as the continental Eurasian Silk Road Economic Belt and a Southeast Investment (BoI), Atif R Bokhari. During the meeting, the chairman 250,000 people commute daily using the Orange Line trains. China Asian Maritime Silk Road. BoI and Ambassador Rong discussed matters of mutual interest, said Orange Line Train is also a symbol of Pakistan-China friendship particularly those relating to industrial cooperation under the CPEC. The CPEC is the jewel in the crown of China’s ambitious Belt and a gift for the people of Lahore. The chairman BoI said that both the governments were working and Road Initiative (BRI) that involves partnering with dozens of together to make the second phase of the CPEC fruitful by attracting countries around the world through trade and infrastructure projects quality Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The Chairman BoI apprised such as shipping lanes, railroads and airports. The multibillion project the Chinese ambassador of the Draft Framework Agreement on with a 3,000km network of railways, oil and gas pipelines, and Industrial Cooperation (IC) under the CPEC. Ambassador Rong said renewable energy schemes connecting the two countries is aimed he gave utmost importance to the draft framework agreement and at improving the lives of people of Pakistan and China by building would push it forward to the relevant departments in China. The an economic corridor promoting bilateral connectivity, construction, chairman BoI stated that Pakistan and China had a future together explore potential bilateral investment, economic and trade, logistics and there was immense potential for people-to-people (P2P) and people to people contact for regional connectivity. It includes: linkages. n Integrated transport and it systems including road, rail, port, air Besides effective government-to-government (G2G) cooperation, and data communication channels both countries are also engaged in effective business-to-business (B2B) collaboration. Both sides dispelled the common misperception n Energy cooperation that the CPEC Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Pakistan were n Spatial layout, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), industries and limited to Chinese companies only. It was stressed that the SEZs and industrial parks other industrial cooperation ventures under the CPEC were open to third party participation. It was also stressed that companies n Agricultural development and investors from all the countries were welcome. Separately, n Socio-economic development (poverty alleviation, medical Ambassador Nong said Pakistan-China relations will grow further treatment, education, water supply, vocational training) under the leadership of the two countries. He conveyed government of China’s full support to CPEC and resolved that Pakistan and n Tourism cooperation and people to people communication China should further deepen and cooperation at the bilateral n Cooperation in livelihood areas and multilateral institutions. CPEC framework envisaged 10,000 In his interaction with the journalists, CPEC Authority Chairman megawatts of power generation capacity. In the first phase, a total n Financial cooperation Lt-Gen (retd) Asim Saleem Bajwa said the working plan of both of 1,544 km of roads have been constructed and 1,456 km are under n Human Resource Development the routes from Khunjrab to Gwadar has been completed and the construction. In the energy sector, 5,320 MW of electricity has been remaining link routes have been added into the plan. Gwadar’s added to the national grid, while work on 7 projects with 4,170 The two countries development projects have been included in the second phase. MW power projects, is nearing completion. Additional projects of signed deals in 2020 Describing the projects in the second phase of the CPEC, Bajwa 2,844MW are planned. Also, cross border optical fiber project which for two hydro-power said, “Special emphasis is on agriculture, industries, trade, and stretches over 820 km linking Khunjrab to Rawalpindi has already generation projects science and technology sectors.” He said the highest priority was been completed. costing $3.9 billion in to make functional the economic zones in four provinces — Khyber the Kashmir region, Without doubt, CPEC has been a game-changer for Pakistan. It has Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan. In December last year, and another to revamp helped Pakistan develop Gwadar deep seaport as Pakistan’s third China and Pakistan also held a meeting focused on increasing the the South Asian port which is not only of great strategic value of Pakistan but it also momentum of CPEC projects, during which both sides expressed nation’s railways for— has firmly placed. Pakistan is the central trade and energy corridor of satisfaction with the progress and committed to turn this mega the most expensive the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). CPEC through its massive capital project into a role model for the rest of the world to follow. Chinese project yet in investments has resulted in addressing Pakistan’s perennial energy Pakistan. China says its China and Pakistan have agreed to invite foreign and local investors shortages, and through road and rail infrastructure projects has projects in Pakistan had made major progress over the last six years. – apart from Chinese investors – to invest in industrial zones under brought a boom for local construction industry. The massive hydro “We firmly support the development of CPEC and stands ready the industrial cooperation, in the second phase of the China-Pakistan projects under CPEC has given employment for thousands and the to work with Pakistan,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Economic Corridor (CPEC). In this respect, Chinese Ambassador planned Specialized Economic Zones (SQZs) are planned to elevate Lijian told a regular press briefing in Beijing on July 7, 2020 adding to Pakistan, Nong Rong, recently called on the Chairman Board of Pakistan’s manufacturing capabilities to a new level.

Webinars on Roshan Digital Accounts

he Embassy of Pakistan Doha organised participants through detailed presentations It is noteworthy that the State Bank of Pakistan two webinars on 9th and 10th November about the economic indicators over the past specifically praised the performance of the 2020 with senior functionaries of the one year while Mr. Arif Habib gave his views Mission at Qatar which has contributed towards State Bank of Pakistan in attendance, for on the economic outlook of Pakistan from the increasing remittance flows by an extraordinary Tthe benefit of the diaspora and investors in Qatar standpoint of the private sector. 97% from $385.94 million in 2018-19 to $760.20 and the wider Gulf region. million in 2019-20. Both the webinars were The second webinar was focused on Roshan viewed by thousands of Pakistanis as they were The first webinar which was held on 9th Digital Account (RDA) initiative of the State broadcast live from the Embassy of Pakistan’s November was aimed at explaining the economic Bank of Pakistan and both Mr. Arshad Bhatti Facebook page, and are an example of close performance of Pakistan and was attended by and Zulfiqar Khokhar of State Bank of Pakistan working relationship between the Mission and Dr. Reza Baqir, Governor, State Bank of Pakistan; briefed the participants about the facilities Pakistan Business & Professionals Council, Ms. Seema Kamil, Deputy Governor, State Bank available to the Pakistani diaspora through RDAs. a community-based organisation, recently of Pakistan, renowned business leader Mr. Arif Ambassadors from Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman established under the patronage of the Embassy Habib of Arif Habib Group and Mr. Farrukh Khan, and their respective community members also of Pakistan, Doha. Managing Director of Pakistan Stock Exchange. participated in the webinar with closing remarks Governor State Bank of Pakistan and Managing from the Special Secretary (Middle East), Ministry Director Pakistan Stock Exchange briefed the of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad.

Special Supplement 8 Tuesday, March 23, 2021 PAKISTAN DAY AMAN-21 – The Message Resonates From now onward Pakistan would only partner for Western Indian Ocean”, the erudite speakers another country in peace; we will not become proffered creative solutions to oceanic problems part of any other conflict, we will not join any afflicting the region. Notable luminaries included, other country in its conflict” Secretary General IMO, President J&K, Dr. Gunter “ Pauli and Senator Sherry Rehman. Commander Imran Khan, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Speaking at US Naval Forces Central Admiral Samuel Paparo World Economic Forum, 2020 delivered his keynote address. His talk, “Enhancing With its tag line, “together for peace” resonating Regional Maritime Security in the Western Indian powerfully in the far reaches of the Indian Ocean Ocean Region through Effective Mechanism”, region and beyond, the 42-country multinational was instructive. Dr. David Brewster of Australian mega biennial exercise AMAN-21 of Pakistan Navy National University talked about the challenges concluded this February 16. A grand international and opportunities in changing maritime dynamics fleet review was held in the North Arabian Sea of Indian Ocean region and its implications for on the culminating day. With dozens of warships regional states. representing wide ranging countries and stationed The second day of the conference saw presence of in a massive formation natively called, “AMAN Special Assistant to Prime Minister, Dr. Moeed Yusuf formation, the imposing finale was witnessed by as chief guest during pre-lunch session. Eminent President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi. He was joined by speakers shed light on the, “Need of Maritime the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Minister Security and Sustainable Growth-A Shared for Defence Production, Chief Minister Sindh, Vision for Western Indian Ocean region”. In his Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief key note address on, “BRI and its implications on of the Army staff and the Chief of the Air staff. maritime security in the Indian Ocean region”, Dr. This was besides Emissaries of various countries in Nong Hong, Executive Director of China America Pakistan. The traditional AMAN formation denotes, your (Pakistan Navy) greatest achievement, as one Studies, USA, underlined the need for stability in “unity and collective resolve”. must learn from all and everyone, is to bring Russia the region in the wake of non-traditional security and United States together on a single platform; threats where interests of multiple stakeholders for that alone Pakistan and Pakistan Navy deserves converged. In the second session, federal Minister rich tributes. It becomes singular since the two for Maritime Affairs, Mr. Syed Ali Haider Zaidi was countries (Russia and the United States) have been the chief guest. Scholars presented their thoughts hostile and at odds since 2014—and for this you on, “Development of Pakistan’s Maritime Sector (Pakistan Navy) can comfortably add another jewel and Blue Economy”. in its crown”, so remarked Lt Gen KJ Singh during In the last session on 14 February, the discussants a live video conversation on a private television alluded to the, “contemporary strategic network. environment related to Indian Ocean region and AMAN-21 was split in two phases of harbour opportunities for regional cooperation”. Renowned and sea. In the former seminars, symposiums, Senator Mushahid Hussain shared his views on, discussion sessions, international get-together, “Building strategic partnerships”. and cultural festivities to showcase Pakistan With progressing geopolitical shifts in the Indian as an opulent society with great traditions The proceedings on the final day were reviewed Ocean region and its peripheries, maritime security were profitably held. In the next phase, tactical The high point on closing day was the international by dignitaries while on-board, PNS MOAWIN. has assumed a distinctive significance for Pakistan. manoeuvres and exercises like anti-piracy, fleet review in which formation of ships conducted The name of the ship, PNS MOAWIN, itself A stable order in the region has now become counterterrorism and search and rescue missions manoeuvres while marine and Special Forces signifies collaboration, or coming together. Jointly an indispensable need for the country. With the etc. were conducted at sea. and air elements displayed their skills. There constructed by Pakistan navy with a Turkish firm were Para jumps, and a fly past by Pakistan Navy upcoming port of Gwadar projected as a regional at local, Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works aviation as well as Pakistan Air Force. Aircraft hub and transhipment port in the wider Indian (KS&EW), the ship stands as pride of the nation. from participating countries too flew past over the Ocean and given the external machinations against It was commissioned as recently as October 2018 AMAN-21 formation. CPEC, maritime security was never so critically and aptly symbolised the spirit that underpinned important to Pakistan as now. Gwadar is tipped to AMAN-21. Earlier, the message of Chief of the Naval Staff, become the hub of trade connecting South Asia, Admiral Niazi was read out during the Opening Middle East, Africa and Central Asia. “I often queried that why my success should come Ceremony. In his message, the Admiral warmly as someone’s failure or why would my success welcomed the participants of the exercise, the mean that someone must lose. There has to be a seventh edition in the AMAN series commandeered way where we all can win and because this goes by Pakistan Navy since 2007. ‘AMAN-21 will against the established thinking and psychology, provide a medium to develop doctrinal synergy therefore it needs paradigm shift. Let’s come to tackle maritime security challenges and to together; understand each other, and fight the enhance interoperability amongst navies at common enemy”, was the clarion call given by different pedestals of technological prowess to Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Amjad come together and secure a sustainable maritime Khan Niazi on the occasion of curtain- raiser for environment’, read the message. AMAN-21 on 12 February. On this occasion, a record number of naval and marine officers, ships and On 13 February, the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral air unit crews as well as observers from various Niazi paid a visit on-board the Indonesian, Russian countries witnessed the stirring flag hoisting and Sri-Lankan naval ships. The senior officers ceremony at Pakistan Navy Dockyard, Karachi. and each commanding officer of the visiting ships These included representatives from, China, Russia, received Naval Chief in befitting manner. They Indonesia, the United States, United Kingdom, and deeply appreciated the enduring efforts of Pakistan Iran, Sri-Lanka, Turkey, Malaysia and other ASEAN Navy in mustering global navies and working states as well as African Union, EU, GCC and NATO. towards shared commitment of maritime peace, Perhaps the finest tribute to AMAN-21 came not stability and legitimate order at sea. from within Pakistan but outside, from eastern The most striking feature of AMAN-21 was the neighbourhood. “India’s Pakistan policy seems presence of Russian Navy. It was icebreaking AMAN-21 aimed to strengthen and develop The highlight of the first phase of exercise, 13 to to have landed in a cul-de- sac. It lacks credibility moment with arch-rival, the United States Navy cooperation among world navies in order to 15 February was devoted to International Maritime and has no future. A course correction is overdue. showing presence alongside. The last time Russian promote regional stability and to counter common Conference (IMC-21). The conference brought AMAN-21 makes mockery of India’s aspiration to Navy conducted joint military drills with NATO maritime threats. It was a rare opportunity for together a wide array of distinguished international be a ‘net security provider’ for littoral states in the members was in the “Bold Monarch” exercise in participating countries to rub shoulders with global and national scholars as well as subject matter Indian Ocean. The participation of Bangladesh and 2011. This move in AMAN-21 did not go unnoticed. counterparts putting aside their differences to work experts. The scholars addressed large multinational Sri-Lanka in AMAN-21 speaks for itself”, asserted Tributes were aglow, even from across the border. towards a common cause, develop synergy and gatherings. Under the overarching theme, Ambassador M.K. Bhadrakumar in his column on “I must commend Pakistan Navy for holding such doctrinal interoperability to fight unconventional “Development of Blue Economy under a Secure February 17, 2021. a large-scale exercise in post Covid period. One of threats. and Sustainable Environment: A shared future Special Supplement PAKISTAN DAY Tuesday, March 23, 2021 9 PISQ’s Cambridge Wing - A bud in blossom he role of an educational institution is qualified for the Nationals, adding another feather of not limited to teaching course books and excellence in PISQ’s cap. conducting exams; the influence reaches far Aruba Atif, a shining PISQ delegate for THIMUN, is and wide, encompassing all the matters of one of the 120 applicants who got selected among Tthis corporeal world. It shoulders the responsibility 600 applicants to attend Northwestern University’s of developing a child academically, physically, MUN conference as the delegate of China in emotionally, psychologically and socially, in both Security Council in February, 2020. PISQ team also individual and collective establishments. In recent participated in DCMUN (Doha college Model United years, Pakistan International School has successfully Nations Conference) in January, 2020, and is now set stepped up to the challenges of the contemporary to attend AKISMUN in March, 2021, with two students academic setup and has left its marks of excellence as “Chairs” in HRC and GA6 respectively, building in almost all the sectors of the educational milieu. a pathway for others to see, admire, follow and The purpose of the school is to equip the students continue the tale of success for years to come. with all the skills they need to advance in this world as successful citizens and high achievers, and has Going Clean and Green–PISQ’S ‘Green proved to be nothing less than remarkable in all its endeavours. School’ initiative The success of the school’s newly-opened An institute’s first and foremost duty is to contribute In Science group of SSC-II Examination, Muhammad “Cambridge Wing” is a proof of the administration’s Beyond the Four Walls all it can to the country’s development and well- Shaheer of PISQ stood first with record highest being. Answering Qatar government’s call of “Green untiring efforts and honest dedication to the cause. In score of 1077 marks out of 1100 in all Doha-based PISQ believes that knowledge goes beyond the Initiative” and “One-Million Trees Project”, PISQ set to just one year, the Wing’s student number has doubled Pakistani schools. Abdullah Abid and Hasan Shahid boundaries of course books, exams, grades and the beautify its premises by planting a variety of vibrant which in itself is a testament of the high-grade shared second position in the school and overall redundant school routine. It focuses on the holistic seasonal flowers and over 200 evergreen trees at academic practices going on at the campus. The third position in all Doha-based Pakistani schools by development of its young learners through an its premises. The building presents a breathtaking school’s Cambridge Wing has a highly qualified and securing 1065/1100 marks each whereas Jawairia extensive setup of co-curricular and extracurricular view as soon as one sets foot inside: as far as the proficient faculty which has in its arsenal more than Shakeel Ahmed secured third position in the school activities. The Annual Inter-School Literary eyes go, all one sees is a lush green panoramic view 15 years’ experience of teaching IGCSE and A-Levels with 1049/1100 marks. Competition is the most sought-after event organized accentuated with vibrant flowers growing all around. qualifications in some of the educational giants of by the school. It has always been the focus of many The school administration’s attempt to beautify Pakistani education sector. leading educational institutions in Doha: contestants the institution is one of its kind and has produced At PISQ’s Cambridge Wing, learners are engaged in from 17 schools across Doha participated in the commendable results: one has to just look at the project-based activities which promote creative and 7th edition of the event—along with their mentors place to see how refreshing and invigorating the view is! critical thinking skills and they are trained to develop and school representatives. True to their history of This plantation scheme caught the eye of Her Royal a problem-solving set of thought. Teaching practices success and excellence, participants from PISQ stood Highness Sheikha Al-Mayassa who appreciated the are not limited to the pages of textbooks; students out by securing one of the top three positions in school’s initiative through a tweet on her social media are encouraged to think outside the box and build all segments of the event, proving once again that account and urged all educational institutions to teamwork and collaborative skills through group they are a force to reckon with—be it the academic follow in the school’s footsteps. This proud moment projects and presentations. grounds or a test of creativity and skill. for the school administration and the Pakistani Through extensive practice of concepts and use community residing in Qatar has put the school on a of Cambridge-endorsed resources, students are high pedestal as a leader and trendsetter in national continuously drilled to give their best and bring causes. As part of Qatar’s 2030 Vision, PISQ supports all the commendable efforts of Qatar government laurels to the school as its proud representatives. In the Humanities group, Miss Asra Sher Khan The school is set to send its first batch of students for the progress and development of the country stood first in the school with 1028 marks; Miss Faiza and vows to contribute all it can in bringing all these to sit Cambridge International Examination series Mohammed secured second position with 917 marks efforts to fruition. this year. As a community school, it is a feat for the and Miss Musfira Ubaid Ullah Ghazi grabbed third administration to achieve this milestone and continue position with 863 marks. the legacy of excellence. PISQ students have always brought honours to the institute through their off- The results of HSSC-II Examination are no less: Said the-chart results and they are determined to make its Ali, a proud student of Pakistan International School emblem shine even brighter by scoring exceptional Qatar (PISQ), has made his alma mater proud by grades in their first CAIE results, too. grabbing 2nd position in all Federal Board affiliated institutions in Pakistan and abroad in the Commerce Where the Sky Ends group of HSSC Annual Examination, 2020. Besides From school-based competitions like Spelling the 2nd rank in Federal Board, PISQ once again leads Bee and Scrabble to national contests like Qatar For PISQ students, sky is the limit, and they have all Pakistani schools in Doha with top 10 positions Debates and THIMUN, bright stars of PISQ leave their proved it through their record-breaking FBISE results in the Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) footprints of glory wherever they go: in QPSDL Girls of both SSC and HSSC Annual Examination, 2020. Annual Examination 2020 of Federal Board of competition, PISQ team secured second position in The school produced 100% result at both levels, once Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE), the league while in the Boys competition of the same again setting a high benchmark. Islamabad. league, PISQ Boys team stood third. Both teams have Special Supplement 10Tuesday, March 23, 2021 PAKISTAN DAY Cricket makes roaring return on Pakistani soil akistan hosting South Africa for a two-Test series in Jan-Feb window was a welcome SOUTH AFRICA vs PAKISTAN SOUTH AFRICA vs PAKISTAN sight for millions of cricket-starved fans CRICKET SERIES, 2021 CRICKET T-20 SERIES, 2021 in the country. From the moment South PAfrican captain Quinton de Kock landed in Pakistan TEST SERIES T-20 SERIES with his squad for the Jan 26-Feb 14 series, the and minds of cricket fans around the globe with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) put together a Pakistan won the 2nd Test and clinch the series by Pakistan won the Series 2-1 and become 1st team to its unique location. Situated against backdrop of fantastic show that kept the players safe at the 2-0 against the visiting team after 17 years. win the T20 series against SA in Asia. brown mountains, the Gwadar Cricket Stadium is venues and fans happy watching on their television expected to be added to the long list of venues sets. PCB arranged chartered flights inside Pakistan set to host international cricket in Pakistan after for the visiting Proteas for the Test and T20I series upgrades are made to the ground. The PCB that lasted three weeks. The arrangement of the recently expressed its interest in hosting ICC events chartered flights was made keeping in view the from 2023 onwards. Considering the riches of COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping the globe. cricket infrastructure and fanbase of literally more than 200 million, there’s no better country to host South African captain De Kock in a brief yet the ICC World Cup in 2027. endearing message, thanked the PCB and the Pakistan International Airlines for their hospitality. Pakistan’s cricket has never seemed more exciting On the pitch, it was a different story though hosts than it is now. With a young captain in Azam Pakistan – under captain Babar Azam - emerged leading the show, the 2017 Champions Trophy winners of the Test series blanking South Africa winners can look to the future with hopes of 2-0 before wrapping up the T20 series 2-1. South unearthing talented cricketers. Pakistan, winners of Africa’s visit was the first trip by an overseas the 1992 World Cup held in Australia and the 2009 team after Sri Lanka’s historic arrival in Pakistan in T20 World Cup staged in England, remain the team December 2019. Soon after the Tests against Sri that cricket fans love the world over. Lanka, cricket around the world was shut down as COVID-19 pandemic gripped the entire world disrupting sports calendars around the globe. Just after the end of the South African tour, the glitz and glamour of the sixth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) took centre stage though for a couple of weeks only. Six franchises with international players like Dale Steyn, Chris Gayle, Chris Lynn, Rashid Khan, Alex Hales, Ben emphasis on the amount of money that the players Dunk, Ben Cutting, Imran Tahir, David Miller and Faf earn that somewhere along the line the cricket kind Du Plesis, Colin Ingram in their ranks, it turned out of gets forgotten. When you come to the PSL or to be another short yet sweet event for cricket fans. the LPL, there’s an importance on the cricket. The matches – initially held with limited number of fans in Karachi and Lahore – was watched by With PCB planning more series with international millions around the world. sides in the next year or so, prayers of cricket fans in Pakistan have been answered. In the next six In a major nod of approval for league’s rising or eight months, Test and ODI centre Arbab Niaz popularity, retired South African star Dale Steyn Stadium in Peshawar will be ready for use after said he loved playing in the PSL. The Quetta massive renovation to one of oldest cricket venues Gladiators star said he found PSL and the Sri in Pakistan. The Rafi Cricket Stadium, an under- Lankan Premier League (LPL) “slightly more construction cricket stadium located in Bahria rewarding”. He said: “I found that playing in those Town Karachi, is also on way to be completed in other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a a year’s time. It will be Pakistan’s biggest cricket player. I think when you go to the IPL there are such stadium. A brand new venue – the beautiful Gwadar big squads and so many big names and so much Cricket Stadium in Balochistan – has won hearts

Pakistani Female Anchors The world’s beautiful cricket Stars on and off the pitch stadium in Gawadar

Sana Mir Fatima Saleem Urooj Mumtaz Zainab Abbas Cricket Anchor Cricket Anchor Cricket Anchor Cricket Anchor

ot only has Pakistan cricket hit a purple associated with ESPN Global Sports Mentoring patch with teams now gracing the shed Program. and Pakistan Super League (PSL) taking Two newer editions — but by no means new to flight as a world class brand, enterprising the field — are former Pakistan captains, Urooj Nyoung female anchors/presenters/commentators Mumtaz and Sana Mir. The former distinguished are firmly occupying the crease out in the field, herself not only as a cricketer of merit but is also a studios and commentator’s box. practicing dentist! To name just five, more visible faces, there’s Sana Mir, on the other hand, may require a Zainab Abbas, the leader of the pack, who is separate piece to do justice to her place in the an established international star, commenting pantheons of the game, but suffice it to say that and interviewing players and stakeholders with she is inarguably, the most inspirational figure for as much ease as a caressed cover drive by her Pakistani sportswomen for her stellar leadership namesake Zaheer Abbas. Her glorious hour came throughout her career on and off-the-field. At at the last World Cup in 2019 when the ICC chose ease in both English and her native Urdu, the her to play the host, and where she also presented prestigious 2019 Asia Society Game Changers a special digital show rubbing shoulders with the award winning ex-captain is now making waves game’s who’s who. on the air, in company with some of the game’s greats, almost all men. Fatima Saleem is the face of Geo Super, Pakistan’s premier sports channel. “My vocation as a sports Last but not least, there’s Sawera Pasha, another journalist combines two distinct passions of my enterprising sports anchor, journalist and actress. life, the power of information and my love of She mostly works in her native Urdu, but is a sports,” she says. A pleasing personality, she, too, prominent face around cricket fields across the is credited with her own global space, having been country. Special Supplement PAKISTAN DAY Tuesday, March 23, 2021 11 Welcome to the land of beauty ondé Nast, the world’s leading lifestyle travel magazine, the recent visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The Wild declared Pakistan as the world’s best holiday destination as Frontiers pointed out that Pakistan offered ancient Indus civilisations, recently as 2020 and the British Backpackers Society (BBS) stretching back 4,000 years, and exciting cities like Lahore with as the world’s third highest potential adventure destination its forts, mosques and palaces. The country also owned incredible Cfor the next decade scenery, particularly in the north, where the three greatest mountain ranges collide, it added. “Pakistan is great for trekking, mountain It doesn’t get any better than this: Condé Nast, the world’s leading biking, rafting or just cultural tourism.” It also endorsed improvement lifestyle travel magazine, declared Pakistan as the best holiday in road and tourism infrastructure of the northern parts of the destination in the world for 2020. “The adventure travelers must-visit country. Wild Frontiers’ also mentioned its 16-day group tour to the goes from strength to strength,” wrote the award-winning luxury Northwest Frontier taking in mountain scenery, the Kalash people, magazine, and highlighted popular destinations in Pakistan. The the Hunza Valley and Chitral. The British Backpackers Society (BBS) magazine’s list picks destinations based on “major events and trends declared Pakistan as the world’s third highest potential adventure around the world” and aims to be “geographically diverse, as well as destination for the next decade. “Pakistan tourism industry had been one that covers a range of trips, from eco-tourism to adventure, to showing the highest growth among its competitors, especially due to inspire every type of traveller. There are the destinations that have the recently introduced visa relaxation by the present government,” been on our radar for a while, but keep getting better.” BBS President Samuel Joynson noted in an interview. The past few years have seen a steady increase in foreign tourists visiting Pakistan and it looks like the trend is set to continue after Pakistan topped Condé Nast Traveller’s list of best holiday the surroundings of Concordia; the confluence of Baltoro Glacier and destinations for 2020. “The ancient valleys, relaxed visa restrictions Godwin Austen Glacier). and a high-profile royal visit from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the end of 2019 mean that at a start of a new decade Pakistan also boasts 7,253 glaciers with more glacial ice than this remarkable country is also entering a new era,” the magazine anywhere on the planet outside the polar regions. The area of glaciers wrote. “Having operated tours in Pakistan since the late 1990s, I’ve logs 11780 kilometres with 2066 volume of ice (km3) in the ranges had a ringside seat to its troubled tourism industry, but finally, it of Himalaya, Karakoram and Hindukush. Pakistan is a paradise for seems to be improving,” it quoted Jonny Bealby, founder and CEO tourists and with its diverse cultures and landscapes, attracts an of adventure-tour operator Wild Frontiers, as saying. “A focus on estimated 500,000 foreign tourists annually. The main destinations of security measures, which saw the British FCO lift its advice against choice for these tourists are the Khyber Pass, Hunza, Kalash, Naran, travel to large parts of the north, and the election of Imran Khan Kaghan, Karachi, Lahore, Swat and Islamabad etc. Pakistan’s tourist (as prime minister), who has vowed to increase international tourist attractions range from the mangroves in the south to the Himalayan numbers, has already had an impact,” Bealby said. hill stations in the north-east. The country’s tourist destinations range from the Buddhist ruins of Takht-i-Bahi and Taxila, to the 5,000-year- The magazine further added: “For the intrepid traveller, this is a old cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation such as Mohenjo-daro and place of exquisite landscapes, where green spaces are overlooked Harappa. The northern part of Pakistan has many old fortresses, by towering mountains. In fact, Pakistan has more peaks taller than examples of ancient architecture. Mughal architecture such as the “Pakistan offers much more to travelers and tourists,” he said. “In 22,965ft than China and Nepal combined, making it an almost Badshahi Masjid, the Shalimar Gardens, the Tomb of Jahangir, and the addition to touring the Karakoram Highway, (the tourists can) visit magnetic spot for adventure travellers and intrepid hikers. Visitors can Lahore Fort are the main archaeological places in Lahore, Pakistan. follow in Michael Palin’s steps while traversing the 12,250ft Shandur the bustling markets of Karachi, taste the delectable flavours of the Pass, home to the world’s highest polo field, or meet with the Kalash Punjab in Lahore and grab tea with some of the friendliest people people of the Hindu Kush, famed for their cowrie-shell headdresses that you will ever meet on the story-tellers street of Peshawar,” he Pakistan: Beauty and Warmth and brighter-than-bright embroidery. In Lahore, the sight of 100,000 said, recalling his visit to the country. “Your first trip to Pakistan will “The country has the ultimate potential: it has sweeping beaches worshippers crammed into the sandstone 17th-century Badshahi be a trip that you will never forget. Top adventure travel experience: lining the edge of the Arabian Sea; it has cities overflowing with Mosque will leave you breathless, while Mughal-era architectural Wedged in the north-eastern corner of Pakistan lies a geographical culture and energy; it has 4,500 years of history; its Northern regions masterpieces stand resplendent on bustling street corners.” “Hardy superlative like no other,” Joynson suggested. are blessed with the world’s greatest mountain ranges. Pakistan is visitors will find that little has changed since Mughal times – with the He appreciated the government’s steps for the promotion of vast, deep and nuanced. Every time I go back to the same places, peaks’ gemstone mines, fairy meadows and winding trails worn into tourism, particularly for hassle-free access of the foreign tourists to I find something new to learn, something new to experience. the ground by heavy-laden yaks – while the Karokoram, stretching the country. He said the new E-visa system and abolishing of No- Every time I see those peaks, I start dreaming of the incredible upwards from the north-west frontier and carved into the Objection-Certificate for foreign tourists depicted that the incumbent opportunities for skiers, riders, mountaineers, and trekkers out there. I ancient bedrock, is one of the world’s most astonishing Imran Khan government had put tourism at the front and center of feel that over the years, Western media has contributed to building a highways,” Condé Nast concluded. The American-based its policy agenda. “The e-visa initiative is a huge step forward and very one-sided, and one-sidedly negative picture of Pakistan. But my magazine Forbes also enlisted Pakistan in its ‘The Not very positive as so many BBS members now can easily travel to personal experience of Pakistan could not be further from this image. Hot List: 10 Best Under-the-Radar Trips for 2020’. Pakistan without any hindrance,” he pointed out. Pakistan is home And while the landscapes, culture and food are wonderful, the best In an article in the magazine, the Wild to 108 peaks above 7,000 metres and probably as many peaks thing about Pakistan is the warmth of the people there — the kindest Frontiers organisation labeled Pakistan above 6,000 metres. There is no count of the peaks above 5,000 and most approachable I’ve encountered on all my travels.” as the next big destination for a couple and 4,000 metres. Five of the 14 highest independent peaks in the of years now, especially due to world (the eight-thousanders) are in Pakistan (four of which lie in — Eva Zu Beck, the world’s pre-eminent tourist.

Shaeqeen-e-Fun organises online Nepalese team first in history Jashn e Azaadi Mushaira to scale K2 in winter haeqeen-e-Fun and Majlis e Frogh e Urdu team of Nepalese climbers on January 16 “We did it,” said Adab are two leading Urdu literary and cultur- made history after becoming the first to Seven Summit al organisations. From the inception, the sole scale K2 in winter. Dozens of mountaineers Treks, the trekking objective of Shaeqeen-e-Fun was to promote have been competing over this winter to company which Asummit the world’s second highest mountain, the led the ascent, in SPakistan’s culture, its cultural, and literary activities. last peak above 8,000 metres to be topped in winter a statement on On 14th August last year, in view of the prevailing time. The team was led by Chhang Dawa Sherpa. Twitter. Nepalese COVID-19 pandemic situation, Shaeqeen-e-Fun climbers finally organised an online Jashn e Azaadi Mushaira, which reached the was presided over by eminent poet, Abbas Tabish, summit of K2 with H.E. Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Ambassador of Pa- on afternoon of kistan in Qatar, as Chief Guest, while compering was 16.01.2021, at 5pm. done by Dr. Fartash Syed and Zaeem Rashid. Since the maiden attempt in 1987- 1988, just a handful of winter expeditions have been attempted on the storied 8,611-metre mountain in the Karakoram range Nonehad gotten higher than 7,650 metres until Saturday when good conditions allowed the climbers to push ahead. tion, they are holding the event this year online, but This winter an unprecedented four teams totaling they have invited very good and reputed poets. He around 60 climbers converged on the mountain, thanked Abbas Tabish, Sadr-e-Mushaira and all poets more than all the previous expeditions put together. for participating in the Mushaira. He also appreciated The 10 Nepalese climbers had earlier been spread H.E. Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, in his address, con- Chairman, Mohammad Atiq’s literary services and said across the different teams, but formed a new group gratulated the Pakistan community for 73rd Jashn that Pakistan community also compliments him for in order to claim the feat in Nepal’s name. Known as e Azaadi and said that Shaeqeen-e-Fun has been his services, which spread over three decades, for the the ‘savage mountain’, winds on the peak can blow at holding Mushairas on Pakistan’s Independence days promotion of Urdu language and literature. more than 200 kilometres per hour and temperatures for many years. Due to COVID - 19 pandemic situa- can drop to minus 60 degrees Celsius.