1 (34th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWERS AND THEIR REPLIES”

to be asked at a sitting of the National Assembly to be held on

Wednesday, the 3rd August, 2016

@75. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi (Deferred during 31st Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that has participated in BRICS summit recently; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Pakistan has participated in Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit recently; if so, the details thereof;

(c) the details of issues discussed in said summits alongwith the outcomes thereof;

(d) whether it is further a fact that said summits have given sufficient scope to the developing countries with regard to finance and ; if so, the details thereof;

(e) the benefits likely to be accrued to Pakistan in the field of finance and trade therefrom; and

(f) the mechanism put in place to safeguard the common interests of all the countries involved in said summits?

@ Tranferred from Commerce Division 2 Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) hosted 7th BRICS summit and 15th SCO summit in Ufa from July 8-10-2015. Pakistan participated in the SCO summit in the capacity of Observer State. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, however, attended the outreach meeting of BRICS at the invitation of the host Russia.

Addressing the BRICS outreach meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit, Prime Minister stated that Pakistan valued its interaction with BRICS, which consisted of important countries of the region and beyond. He proposed to promote mutual understanding, cooperation and goodwill through cultural, academic interaction and people to people contact.

He thanked the host, President Vladimir Putin and the Government of the Russian Federation, for bringing SCO and BRICS member community together under one roof as this would go a long way in promoting inclusive and synergetic approach to economic development.

(b) A delegation lead by President Mamnoon Hussain attended meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held in Tashkent, , on 23-24 June 2016.

Besides participating in the plenary session of the Summit, the President also held bilateral meetings with the leaders of some of participating countries on the sidelines of the event.

The President reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to SCO’s Charter and highlighted deep rooted cultural and historic links with SCO members. He stated that Pakistan would cooperate positively in SCO’s objectives of security and economic cooperation.

The President also said that Pakistan aims to further strengthen its relations with the SCO after becoming a full member. Speaking at the plenary session of the SCO Summit, he underlined that signing of Memorandum of Obligations was a major step towards Pakistan’s full membership of SCO.

Pakistan’s formal request for full membership in the organization was approved in principle by the Heads of State Council meeting held in Ufa, Russia in July 2015. The Heads of State Council had “agreed procedure” of accepting Pakistan as a member state of SCO with the consensus of all the founding members. 3 Prior to that, as an Observer State of the SCO, Pakistan has been making substantive contribution to regional peace, security and development.

As the host of the meeting, Uzbek side called for in-depth and all-round development of SCO cooperation with all parties. The need for regional cooperation, economic development and stability of all SCO members was also deliberated upon.

(c) On 24 June 2016, as SCO celebrated its 16th Anniversary, the Adviser to the PM on Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz signed the Memorandum of Obligations on behalf of Pakistan with the aim of obtaining fall membership of SCO at its Heads of State Summit at Tashkent. The MoO was jointly signed by the Foreign Ministers of six SCO member states, Secretary General SCO and the Advisor of PM on Foreign Affairs.

Pakistan has been an Observer at SCO since 2005. It has been a regular participant in the meetings of SCO and was the first SCO Observer to apply for full membership. The expansion in SCO membership will enhance importance and relevance of the Organization as its 8 Members would represent 45 percent of the total global population.

At Tashkent, President Mamnoon Hussain held a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Head of State Council Summit of SCO. The two leaders discussed a broad range of issues of mutual interest. President thanked for its support to Pakistan for becoming full member of SCO.

(d) Over the course of 16 years, SCO has strengthened mutually beneficial partnership among its members in the areas of counter-terrorism, security, trade, finance, energy, infrastructure, tourism and environmental protection.

SCO development strategy 2025 envisions evolving strategies in such summits which have full support of member countries. The concept of One-Belt-One-Road is a new model for regional integration and global governance. It is a blue print for regional connectivity entailing massive economic, trade, finance infrastructure and energy resource development with unparalleled economic dividends. 4 SCO has developed synergies and partnerships with other international organizations, structures and mechanisms, like One-Belt-One-Road initiative, Silk Road Fund and Infrastructure Investment (AIIB) to find win-win solution for all.

Furthermore, SCO consults and shares Pakistan’s perspective on regional issues to SCO member states and promote better relations with all the members in accordance with the ‘Shanghai Spirit’.

(e) An Agreement on the Interbank Cooperation (Association) in the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization will pursue the objective of setting up a mechanism for the provision of funding and banking services for the investment projects supported by the governments of the SCO members.

An Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Affairs has been concluded among the SCO member states to promote development of passenger and cargo traffic through cooperation in the custom services.

Pakistan shares the perspective that connectivity and development are critical to progress, prosperity and security in the region. Hence, there is a strong support for regional connectivity projects. Under umbrella of SCO, member states assist one another by providing funds for development projects with the focus on infrastructure, construction, basic sectors, high technology, and export oriented economic sectors.

SCO members also arrange pre-export financing to promote trade and economic links among the members.

Members share information on potential clients and cooperation projects in the framework of this agreement while ensuring required confidentiality.

SCO provides us with a platform for forging close ties with China and Russia, two economic giants in the region as well as four energy rich SCO members from these Central Asian Republics i.e. , , and Uzbekistan.

(f) Various Instruments of SCO have already been adopted by the member states such as Charter, Treaty on Long-term Good Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation and other Agreements, Conventions, and Protocols in the fields of counter-terrorism, security, combating illicit 5 trafficking of arms and ammunitions, organized crime, economic, trade, investment, finance, banking, and agriculture. This comprehensive framework takes care of common interests of all the member states.

Member states of SCO are obliged under an agreement to abide by the obligations in accordance with the principles of respecting the sovereignty of each other and non-interference in each other’s domestic . Members have no right to perform any judicial powers and functions within the scope of the right of the other.

All decisions are made through consensus and in case of disputes or disagreements members settle disputes them through consultation and negotiations.

122. *Ms. Munaza Hassan (Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the large quantum of Pakistan’s trade particularly with neighboring countries is undocumented at present; if so, the reasons thereof;

(b) whether it is also a fact that the Government has gaged the negative impacts of such undocumented trade on national exchequer/trade; if so, the details; if not the reasons thereof; and (c) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard? Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Pakistan shares borders with , , and China. The land border stations with these countries are as follows :— Afghanistan Border Stations: Chaman, Tarkham, Kharlachi, Tremengal, Burki, Shaheedanodand, Ghulam Khan & Tank. China Boarder Station: Sust India Board Station: Wahgah

Iran Board Station: Taftan 6 Pakistan’s trade data with these countries as a whole and trade data through land border ports is annexed.

(b) There is no reliable method to gauge the precise volumes of un-documented import/export of goods. No studies have been recently carried out to measure the impact of un-documented export of goods.

(c) Ministry of Commerce vide SRO No. 344 (I)/2016 (Export Policy Order) and 345(I)/2016 (Import Policy Order) regulates the import/ export of goods, which are subject to certain conditions as per the provision of the said SROs. IPO & EPO are prepared in consultation with all the relevant stakeholders including customs. In order to keep a check on undocumented export of goods, the required documents are duly listed in the said SROs. In terms of effective enforcement along the border, the fundamental role is that of customs and other agencies managing the borders. Annex-I 7 123. *Ms. Munaza Hassan (Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the movement of Indian forces has extraordinarily increased on the line of control adjacent to the Neelam Valley; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that the said movement is violation of the Ceasefire Agreement of 2003; if so, the reasons thereof?

Transferred to Defence Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

124. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan (Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the total quantity of gold sent abroad or sold illegally during the year 2012-13;

(b) the loss suffered by country’s economy due to devaluation of rupees therefrom alongwith the details thereof; and

(c) the actions taken by the Government against the responsibles thereof?

Transferred to Revenue Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

163. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi: (Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Pakistan’s trade share in the global market is declining by almost 2% every year; if so, the break-up of annual share of Pakistan in the global market during the last five years; 8 (b) whether it is also a fact that the said trend will continue; and

(c) whether it is further a fact that the Government has failed to address real issues thereof; if so, the steps are being taken to address issues relating to high cost of doing business, market access and competitiveness?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Pakistan’s share in the global market is almost similar in the last 5 years. The share of Pakistan’s export share in the global export market in 2015 has increased by 3.50% as compared to 2014, whereas, overall trade share has increased by 5.48%. The break-up of the annual trade share of Pakistan in the global market during the last five years is as under: —————————————————————————————— %Share of Pakistan in Global market —————————————————————————————— Exports Imports Trade —————————————————————————————— 2011 0.1384 0.2379 0.1884 2012 0.1328 0.2358 0.1846 2013 0.1326 0.2348 0.1838 2014 0.1301 0.2483 0.1893 2015 0.1346 0.2637 0.1997 —————————————————————————————— Source: World Trade Organization

(b) Pakistan’s trade share in global market is expected to increase due to upcoming economic activity under CPEC, regional trade arrangements and STPF (2015-18).

(c) The Government is well aware of the real issues affecting the country’s exports, i.e. terrorism, energy crisis, low investment inflows and high cost of doing business. The following steps are taken by the Government relating to high cost of doing business, market access and competitiveness:

1. Under Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF), 2015-18, several initiatives are announced to enhance Pakistan’s export competitiveness and institutional strengthening. A total of Rs. 20 billion will be spent on development of export sector during the next three years. The initiatives inter-alia include: 9 (i) Support for the import of plant & machinery to strengthen supply chain and encourage value-addition.

(ii) Establishment of Export Promotion Council for Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics, and Rice Export Promotion Council.

(iii) Performance Based Incentive (PBI) to offset the burden of higher utility costs and local levies and taxes on the export sectors, i.e. per unit price based refund @ 4% of 10% over last year’s exports.

(iv) Under short-term export enhancement measures, the following four product categories are being focused: (i) Basmati rice, (ii) horticulture, (iii) meat and meat products; and (iv) jewellery, with the parallel focus on the following markets: (i) Iran, (ii) Afghanistan, (iii) China, and (iv) European Union.

2. Through active trade diplomacy, Government is trying to get better market access for the local businesses in international markets by concluding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs with different countries.

3. Bilateral free trade agreements with China, , , Iran, and are already in place. The opportunity of zero-rated market access in European Union market under GSP Plus scheme has provided a fillip to our exports to our largest market. Moreover, Government is in the process of negotiating trade agreements with and .

4. The leading business support institutions are being strengthened. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan has recently been restructured; Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company is being revitalized and strengthened.

5. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is undertaking various export promotional activities through trade exhibitions and delegations.

6. The TEXPO Pakistan has recently been held in for showcasing a broad range of Pakistan’s textile products to foreign Textile buyers. 10 7. In order to fulfill long awaited demand for reducing cost of doing business, Government has taken a major step of reducing electricity tariff by Rs. 3 for the industrial units with effect from 1st January 2016.

8. Drawback of local taxes at the rate of 2-4% of FOB realized value of enhanced exports has also been announced under SRO 177(I)/2015 dated 27th February, 2015.

9. The availability of affordable finance for the extort sector has considerably improved. The State Bank of Pakistar has further reduced the discount rate Which currently stands at 6%. The Export Finance Rate currently at 3.5% is the lowest in a decade.

220. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani (Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether it is a fact that Pakistan is not a member of the Information Technology Agreement; if so, the reasons thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Pakistan has not so far acceded to Information Technology Agreement.

Two main reasons for the being reluctant to join this Agreement are:

1. FBR had shown reluctance as removal of duties may result in loss of revenue and,

2. Ministry of Industries and Production is of the opinion that without adequate tariff protection, there would be no incentive to set-up IT- related industries in Pakistan. However, Ministry of Industries has since modulated it’s stance on the agreement.

In November, 2015 Ministry of Information Technology agreed to join the Information Technology Agreement. Accordingly, a draft summary was prepared by this Ministry soliciting Cabinet’s approval for Pakistan’s accession to this Agreement. The same was sent for views/comments of Ministry of Information Technology, Ministry of Industries and Prodnction and FBR. 11 Ministry of Information Technology and Ministry of Industries & Production supported Pakistan’s joining ITA. While comments/views from FBR are still awaited, for which Ministry of Commerce (WTO Wing) is pursuing regularly.

31. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether it is a fact that India is not abiding by Indus Water Treaty at present; if so, the steps taken by the present Government to raise the said issue at bilateral/International/UN level during the last three years?

Transferred to Water and Power Division for Answer on Next Rota Day.

32. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the details of goods imported from the neighbouring countries during the last three years?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The details of goods imported from the neighboring countries i.e. Afghanistan, India, Iran and China during the last three years are attached at annex-I.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

33. *Ms. Mussarrat Ahmadzeb:

Will the Minister for Overseas and Human Resource Development be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of persons hailing from Malakand working abroad at present;

(b) the location of the Regional Office of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) in the said area; and

(c) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the Government to open a Sub-Office of OPF in the Malakand Division; if so, when it will be implemented? 12 Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) As per available data of Bureau of & Overseas Employment (BE&OE), approximately 86,864 Pakistanis have proceeded abroad for employment from Malakand Agency during the period 1981- March, 2016.

(b) OPF Regional Office is located in , .

(c) Currently, there is no proposal under consideration for opening of a sub-office in Malakand Division.

34. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in Iceland at present; and

(b) the steps taken by the present Government in this regard?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: At present there is no Pakistani imprisoned in the Jails of Iceland.

35. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in at present; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The Mexican authorities have communicated names of two Pakistani nationals, detained in Mexico, according to the Mission: —————————————————————————————— No. Name —————————————————————————————— 1. Mahboob Ali 2. Arif Zaman 13 Detained persons are not considered to be imprisoned in the legal sense by the Mexican authorities and pending of nationality confirmation are being for the time being.

(b) The Embassy, as per practice, contacts the detained persons to ascertain their nationality and welfare. The particulars are also communicated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior for confirmation of nationality. In the case of the above mentioned persons, our Embassy has asked the Mexican authorities for their complete details in order to verify their national identity from the Pakistani authorities.

36. *Ms. Aisha Syed:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development be pleased to state the country-wise details and names of Worker Welfare Attaches abroad at present?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis & Human Resource Development has recently selected 18 x Community Welfare Attaches (CWAs) for their posting in different Pakistan Missions abroad. Six CWAs have joined their place of posting while five CWAs will join their stations by 23-07-2016. The remaining CWAs are waiting for endorsement of visas. List of designated Community Welfare Attaches (CWAs) is annexed. 14

37. *Ms. Aisha Syed:

Will the Minister for and Human Resource Development be pleased to state the names of persons involved in Mega Land Scandal of the Employees Old Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) alongwith the details thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) As per FIA investigation the names of person involved in the EOBI scam alongwith the details is annexed.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

38. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether there is any proposal under consideration of the Government to setup a Trade Centre on Pak-Iran Border in the near future?

15 Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): At present, there is no proposal under consideration by the Ministry of Commerce to establish any Trade Center on Pakistan-Iran Border.

39. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) the location-wise academies established for promotion of sports in the country from the year 2013 to 2016; and

(b) the role played by those academies for promotion of sports during the said period?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada):

(a) Pakistan Cricket Board

Pakistan Cricket Board has developed High Performance Centers (Academies) at Karachi and which would be operational soon. Moreover, PCB is also planning to develop such High Performance Centers in other regions in future.

Pakistan Sports Board

No sports Academy has been established by the PSB since 2013 to date.

(b) These academies were not functional during the said period, however the same would be helpful in grooming domestic & young players at regional level. Additionally, domestic players may have standardized practice/ training facilities at their respective regions in these High Performance Centers.

40. *Ms. Sajida Begum:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the steps are being taken by the Government of Pakistan for inclusion in Nuclear Suppliers Group;

(b) if so, the achievements gained in this regard so far? 16 Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Following the submission of its formal application for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) on 19 May 2016, Pakistan has undertaken extensive diplomatic efforts to win support within NSG for its case. These efforts have included:—

 Letters by the Prime Minister to his counterparts in all NSG countries.

 Phone calls by the Adviser and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister to their counterparts in those NSG countries which favour a non-discriminatory criteria-based approach for membership of non- NPT countries.

 Demarches by our diplomatic missions in NSG capitals at various, including ministerial, levels to highlight our credential for NSG membership.

 Expert level briefings to the delegations of NSG members states in Vienna in May 2016.

 Briefing at the Foreign Ministry for the NSG members countries’ diplomatic missions in on 8th June 2016.

 Visits by an expert-level delegation to Vienna, , and Seoul, Republic of Korea, during the NSG’s Extraordinary and Annual Plenary Meetings on 9 June and 23-24 June, respectively, with a view to holding meetings with like-minded countries and coordinating efforts with friendly countries.

(b) Pakistan’s strong and multi-pronged lobbying efforts have paid off. Our arguments for criteria-based approach, and negative impact of any India- specific exemption on the strategic stability in South and the future of non- proliferation regime, have found resonance among several NSG countries. This was reflected in the extra-ordinary and Annual Plenary meetings of NSG in Vienna and Seoul, both of which remained inconclusive with several countries calling for further discussions to evolve a non-discriminatory approach on the question of non-NPT states’ membership.

41. *Ms. Sajida Begum:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government to improve the trade relations with China? 17 Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Ministry of Commerce signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2006 which became operational in 2007. Agreement on Trade in Services was signed in February, 2009 and became operational from October, 2009. Under the FTA, China has offered zero rated exports from Pakistan on items like cotton fabric, blend fabrics, synthetic yarn and fabrics, knit fabrics, home textiles, minerals, sports goods, cutlery, surgical goods, kinnow, mangoes, industrial alcohol, etc.

Following the implementation of FTA, the rate of growth in- Pakistan’s exports to China has registered substantial increase. Prior to signing of CPFTA, the volume of trade was approximately US$ 4 billion out of which exports from Pakistan were US$ 575 million. However, at present out of the total trade volume of US$ 12 billion. Pakistan’s exports have risen to US$ 2.1 billion in the year 2014-15, registering a growth rate of 265%.

Further, Pakistan and China are in process of negotiating the second phase of Pak-China FTA. Pakistan shared its concerns regarding adverse impact of cheap imports from China on the local . Both sides are working to find an amicable solution which adequately addresses the genuine concerns of both countries.

Besides FTA in Goods and Services, following measures have also been taken by Ministry of Commerce to improve trade relations with China:

 In order to showcase Pakistani products, Chinese Government was requested to facilitate Pakistan’s participation in exhibitions trade fairs in China. China is offering Pakistan free of charge space in all its major fairs. In addition, Chinese Businessmen are invited to participate in Expo Pakistan.

 Ministry of Commerce and Pakistan’s Embassy in Beijing arranged a visit of 100 Chinese businessmen from 18-22 January, 2016 during which China-Pakistan Business Opportunities Conferences were held in Islamabad, and Karachi. These conferences were very successful in terms of B2B matchmaking.

 For facilitating smooth financial transactions between two countries a Banking Protocol has been signed and ratified. Recently, Habib Bank Limited (HBL) has established a branch in Beijing. Opening of a Pakistani bank in China reflects the resilience of our financial service sector and also trust of international business community. 18 42. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the received from the various Gulf countries during the tenure of the present Government; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to facilitate those Overseas Pakistanis who are sending said remittances?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) As per available official data, detail of the remittances sent by the overseas Pakistanis from various Gulf countries during the tenure of the present government is as below;

REMITTANCES RECEIVED (Million US Dollar) —————————————————————————————— COUNTRY Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 —————————————————————————————— 4,729.43 5,630.43 5,968.40 UAE 3,109.52 4,231.75 4,365.27 318.84 388.99 448.44 681.43 748.12 773.95 329.24 350.21 380.85 530.52 685.71 819.44 —————————————————————————————— Total: 9,698.98 12,035.21 12,756.35 —————————————————————————————— (b) OPF is committed to render better and improved services by providing relief to the overseas Pakistanis and their dependents in the redressal of their grievances, early settlement of death and disability dues, facilitation to incoming and outgoing OPs’ at all international , financial assistance to the families of destitute overseas Pakistanis, meeting the educational needs of the children of overseas Pakistanis and provision of plots on subsidized rates. These existing schemes are continuously being revised to make them more efficient in service delivery for the benefit of overseas Pakistanis. The schemes are as follows:— 19 o Financial assistance to the destitute families of OPs in the event of death or disability of an OP. o Foreign Exchange Card (FERC). o Facilitation Counters for OPs at International in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Multan, , , Turbat, Gawadar and Islamabad. o Complaint Cell at OPF Head Office to expeditiously process the complaints of overseas Pakistanis. o OPF takes up the cases with the Employers in the host country of those OPs who expire while working abroad for recovery of their dues/legitimate claims to facilitate the families of deceased. o A 20-bed Eye Hospital has been established at Mirpur (Azad ) 10-bed eye hospital established at Yaro Khoso, District D.G. Khan. o Holding of Free Eye Camps in areas of Overseas Pakistanis. o OPF Ambulance for Overseas Pakistanis. o OPF - NADRA Swift Centre. o Relief Activities for war affected or calamity hit areas. o Assistance in repatriation of stranded Pakistanis from abroad. o Educational Institutions - 04 OPF colleges & 20 OPF public all over the country. o Grant of Scholarship and Merit Award to the children of OPs. o Reserved seats for admissions of children in different Educational Institutions including professional Colleges / Universities. o Housing Schemes at eleven sites, out of which seven have been completed. o Vocational Training Program has been launched to train manpower for seeking jobs abroad 20 43. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the details of trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have historically been tense. Cross-border infiltration, refugees, drug trafficking, militant groups, and disputes over counterterrorism policy and dialogue with terrorist networks have contributed to an entrenched trust deficit and have eroded relations.

Yet Afghanistan is Pakistan’s third largest trading partners with the volume of trade at US $ 2.285 billion in 2014-15. Pakistan is also the main conduit of imports of Afghanistan from elsewhere through the Karachi port.

Despite tense political relations, commercial activities including exchange of trade delegations continue to take place. In this regard the sixth meeting of Afghanistan Pakistan

Transit Trade Coordination Authority (APTTCA) was held on February, 14-15, 2016 in Islamabad. The meeting highlighted significance of bilateral trade and transit trade and reiterated resolve of the leadership of the two countries to enhance the bilateral trade to USD five billion and to further facilitate the transit trade. The 7th Meeting.of APTTCA is likely to be held in Kabul soon wherein deliberations on review of APTTA-2010 will take place.

The economic relations between the two countries are being strengthened through Joint Economic Commission (JEC) which is forum between Pakistan and Afghanistan on bilateral economic cooperation in the area of Communications, Power, Railways and Roads, Customs to Custom cooperation, Pak-Afghan transit trade and other bilateral issues of mutual interest.

44. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the earnings accrued from the transit and border trade during the last three years; and 21 (b) the steps being taken by the Government to increase the said earnings?

Transferred to Revenue Division for answer on Next Roa Day.

45. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the steps being taken by the present Government to increase profit through transit and border trade; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to ensure standard of quality of goods being imported and exported at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Under Article 30 of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA), 2010, no duties & taxes are leviable on transit goods, therefore, no direct revenue is generated by FBR from the Afghan Transit Trade. Various other businesses, involved in clearance of transit cargo such as port terminal operators & shipping sector e.g. shipping companies, stevedores, freight forwarders, Customs Agents, Transport Operators, Insurance Companies, Tracking Companies, toll tax collectors, earn from transit trade which is beyond the ambit of FBR.

2. Ministry of Commerce is the policy making authority whereas the FBR regulates the transit and border trade. Government has taken the following steps towards enhancement in transit and border trade with the neighboring countries:—

(i) Government of Pakistan has acceded to TIR Convention, 1975 which is soon to be operationalized.

(ii) Another landmark project for expansion of transit and border trade is the China-Pak Economic Corridor (CPEC). Both CPEC and TIR Convention are expected to expand the transit / bilateral / regional trade in future which will have a positive impact on Pakistan’s economy.

(iii) In order to facilitate importers/ exporters, new Customs have been opened at: 22 (1) Pak-Afghan border station: Nawagai (Bajaur Agency), Khapakh/Ghalani (Mohmand Agency), Teri-Mangal (Kurram Agency), Bukit (Kurram Agency), Kharlachi (Kurram Agency), Shaheedano Dand (Kurram Agency), Ghulam Khan (North Waziristan Agency), Lawara Boya (South Waziristan Agency), Angoor Adda (South Waziristan Agency) and Khand Narai (South Waziristan Agency).

(2) Pak Iran border station: Katagar (District Washuk-Adjacent to Mashkel, Chdighi (District Panjgoor), Rideeq (District Mand) and Border Point-250 (District Kach).

Besides the opening of new Customs stations, the existing stations at Torkham, Chaman and Taftan are being upgraded.

(iv) The Executive Committee of National Economic Council (ECNEC) has approved development of Integrated Transit Trade Management System (ITTMS) project aimed at fully capitalizing. the transit trade potential of the country. Under the proposed project, state of the art border-crossing complexes at Torkham, Wagha and Chaman will be constructed, which will reduce dwell time of cargo clearance, monitor pilferage and pave the way for one-window operation at country and regional levels. The projected cost of the project is Rs. 31.686 billion.

(v) In order to improve border management and to curb illegal trade on both sides of Pak-Iran border a project of construction of gate alongwith fencing of the restricted Customs area at Taftan has been launched and the tentative date for the completion of this project is 14th August, 2016.

(vi) Role of is being reactivated with special reference to transit trade with Afghanistan which will reduce the cost of business for Afghan Transit Traders.

(b) Ministry of Science and Technology has been requested for their input in the matter.

Pakistan Standards & Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) is mandated under Section 14 of Act VI of 1996 to check the quality of mandatory items to ensure standard of quality of goods. 23 Government of Pakistan has introduced and implemented Trade Policy Order 2015 - 18 to ensure standards of quality of goods being imported and exported vide.

1- Import Policy Order 2016 Notification # S.R.O 345(1)2016 dated 18th April, 2016.

2- Export Policy Order 2016 Notification # S.R.O 344(1)2016 dated 18th April, 2016.

As per Import Policy Order 2016, all imported goods are subject to comply with the notified national standards the contents of Section 5(B) (ii) are reproduced as under:

“Import of goods shall be subject to the same National Quality Standards or regulations as are prescribed in respect of similar and domestically produced goods”

Following steps have been taken by PSQCA to ensure standards of quality of goods being imported and exported:

a. Mandatory items list of PSQCA increased from 90 to 107 items to ensure quality of import and export items for health and safety of consumers. . b. Keeping in view the importance of import- and export item’s quality, - PSQCA has created a separate directorate import and export to ensure control quality of import and export products. PSQCA has - also proposed inclusion of Packaged Liquid Milk (PS: 5344-2016) and Meat Meal as Livestock and Poultry Feed Ingredient (1st Revision) (PS: 4249-2016) for inclusion in compulsory certification marks scheme of PSQCA, which have been forwarded to relevant Ministries Divisions/ Provincial Governments for eliciting their comments prior to forward the draft SROs to and Justice Division for vetting.

(c) PSQCA has proposed Foreign Manufacturing License Scheme which will be beneficial to ensure quality of goods being imported in Pakistan. 24 (d) Conformity Assessment Scheme is in place in compliance of Pakistan Conformity Assessment Rule 2011, which is aligned with international practices to ensure quality of goods; being imported and exported.

46. *Dr. Shizra Mansab Ali Khan Kharral

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government for enhancing domestic trade with Uzbekistan?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Uzbekistan is a landlocked country with more than 60% of the population living in densely populated rural communities. Uzbek economy is the second largest economy in Central Asia after Kazakhstan with GDP of US$187.9 billion in 2015.

However, Bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan is far below its potential and presently at the level of US$ 2.98 million in 2014-15.

The main reasons for low volumes of trade are lack of direct connectivity, security situation in Afghanistan and lack of information about business prospects between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

As a follow up to the visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to Tashkent, Uzbekistan in November, 2016, a Special Working Group (SWG), comprising senior officials of Industry, Textiles, Agricultural Machinery, Cotton Export, and Chemical Industries were scheduled to visit Pakistan from 24-29 April, 2016. However, the planned meeting was postponed by the Uzbek side.

In order to enhance bilateral trade, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan is arranging an exhibition to be held in August/September, 2016.

Furthermore, TIR Convention, which will provide cost effective, hassle free transit from Afghanistan to Uzbekistan, is also likely to be operationalized soon.

47. *Dr. Shizra Mansab Ali Khan Kharral:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in Turkey at present; 25 (b) the allegations leveled against them; and

(c) the steps taken by the Government for their release?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in Turkey at present is 37.

(b) The allegations against the prisoners include drug trafficking, robbery, deprivation of liberty and fake documents.

(c) The steps taken by the Mission for their release are as under:

i. The Mission remains in continuous contact with the relevant Turkish authorities to ensure the well-being of the prisoners.

ii. In general, Turkish Government provides defence counsel to prisoners. However, in those cases where the Turkish Government does not provide a legal counsel, the Mission, after seeking Ministry’s approval, makes arrangements for the legal counsel for the prisoners.

iii. As Turkish Courts do not have a Turkish- interpreter, Mission also arranges an interpreter for the prisoners.

iv. Once a prisoner completes the sentence, the Mission arranges the ticket and travel documents for his/her repatriation to Pakistan.

48. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the trade advantages derived Pakistan out of Free Trade Agreement and Preferential Trade Agreements with China; and

(b) the trade advantages China derived under the said agreements from Pakistan side?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) In order to increase the volume of bilateral trade between Pakistan and China, an Early Harvest Programme (EHP) was initiated in 2005-07. EHP provided the basis for expansion in trade between the two countries. To deepen the concessions, Ministry 26 of Commerce signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2006 which became operational in 2007. On implementation of the FTA, the rate of growth in Pakistan’s exports to China has increased multifold. Prior to the signing of CPFTA, the volume of trade was approximately US$ 4 billion out of which exports from Pakistan were US$ 575 million. At present, out of the total trade volume of US$ 12 billion 2014- 15, Pakistan’s exports have risen to US$ 2.1 billion registering a growth of 265% during the period. Under this agreement, Pakistan enjoys zero rated tariff regime on items including cotton fabric, blend fabrics, synthetic yarn and fabrics, knit fabrics, home textiles, minerals, sports goods, cutlery, surgical goods, kinnow, mangoes, industrial alcohol, etc. As a result of the FTA, Pakistani industry has been able to source raw material semi processed products from China at affordable rates. This has improved competitiveness of Pakistan’s domestic industry and helped grow exports. The consumers have also been able to find wide variety of goods at affordable prices. This has generated healthy competition in the local market and increased consumer welfare.

(b) Before implementation of the China-Pakistan FTA in 2007, total exports of China to Pakistan were at US$ 3.5 billion. Following the implementation of China-Pakistan FTA, exports of China to Pakistan soared to US$ 10.1 billion in 2014-15.

49. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) the details of decisions of the Council of Common Interest (CCI) made during the last five meetings; and

(b) the total number of decisions so far implemented duly out of the same?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordunation (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada): (a) Detail of decisions of the Council of Common interests made during the last five meetings is placed at (Annex ‘A’).

(b) So far 13 decisions have been implemented out of the same (Annex ‘B’).

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library) 27 50. *Ms. Shaista Pervaiz:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government is aware of the fact that despite stringent guidelines on manpower recruitments, the aspirants have to shell out huge amount to the recruiting agents for work visas in foreign countries;

(b) if so, the guidelines laid down in this regard; and

(c) the measures taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to check the rising incidence of malpractices by the recruitment agencies?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) Government is mindful about phenomena of extraction of money from the intending emigrants by the licensed OEP as well as the unauthorized subagents.

(b) In order to streamline the issue, the Ministry has already taken the following steps from time to time:—

i. All Protectorates of Emigrants have been directed to strictly follow the obligations of Rule 15(A)2 of Emigration Rules 1979 to ensure issuance of proper receipt by the OEP to the intending emigrants in case of any payment relating to their foreign employment.

ii. Trade Test Center activity/procedure for recruitment of emigrants have been revised focusing on to educate the emigrants present in trade center regarding role of sub-agents mafia / unauthorized persons involved in selling the dreams to intending emigrants at such events and deprived of the innocent people by extracting illegal amounts.

iii. An online Complaint Management System (www.ophrd.gov.pk/complaint) is already working to facilitate the emigrants in filing their complaints against illegal activities of QEPs contrary to Emigration Ordinance 1979 and rule made there under and to take quick action against the culprits. 28 iv. Instructions have been issued to all Protectorates of Emigrants to display the banners/Standees at different prominent places at Protectorates of Emigrants and in OEP offices containing information regarding payment to the OEPs only in their approved offices for awareness of emigrants and overseas Pakistanis.

v. Instructions have been issued to oil airlines and their franchised agencies regarding “Issuance of international traveling tickets after Protector Clearance to save emigrants from any unfoward position at airports.

vi. News Agencies have been directed not to publish overseas lobs advertisement without the permission of Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment and its Protectorate of Emigrants office as required under section 9 of the Emigration Ordinance 1979.

(c)

i. Strict actions have been taken against those OEP’s who have been found guilty of malpractices.

ii. About 42 OEP Licenses have been cancelled during 2014-2016.

iii. Penalties have been imposed in different cases by forfeiting the amount of security deposited by OEP.

iv. Computerization of the record of emigrants, OEPs and permission granted for recruitment of emigrants is under process in collaboration with NADRA to reduce the malpractices and incidences of exploitation from the emigrants.

51. *Ms. Shaista Pervaiz:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether the Government has taken/being taken steps keeping in view of the situation that has arisen due to continuous and rapidly increasing influx of foreign goods in Pakistan’s market and its impacts on Pakistan’s industries; if so, the details thereof? 29 Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Yes, the Government has taken the following steps to curtail import bill:

 Regulatory duty has been imposed on 400 categories of items to discourage import of non-essential/luxury goods which are also being manufactured locally.

 Minimum standards have been developed by the Ministry of Science and Technology/PSQCA for around 100 categories of items which will be applicable at the time of clearance of imports to avoid import of substandard quality of goods.

 Commodities which are being manufactured locally are banned for import in second hand/used condition like refrigerators, deep freezers. air-conditioners and fans etc.

Details are placed at Annex-I, II, III.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

52. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) the mandate and functions of the Ministry after the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010;

(b) the total employees working in the Ministry at present; and

(c) the total expenditures of the Ministry during the financial years 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordunation (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada): (a) Attached at Annex-I

(b) Out of 277-Sanctioned Posts in BS-01 to 22 presently 222 employees are working in this Ministry.

(c) The year wise expenditure incurred under Non-Development Expenditure and Development Expenditure of this Ministry in given below in tabulated from. The detailed of the expenditure is attached at Annex-II 30 Non-Development Expenditure

(Rs. In Million) —————————————————————————————— Year Budget Final Expenditure Grant Grant —————————————————————————————— 2013-14 1681.891 2129.583 1910.190

2014-15 1539.404 2034.515 1940.956

2015-16 1645.000 1578.672 1451.951 —————————————————————————————— Development Expenditure

(Rs. In Million) —————————————————————————————— Year Budget Final Expenditure Grant Grant —————————————————————————————— 2013-14 437.618 450.197 448.115

2014-15 412.944 1066.394 900.568

2015-16 609.553 1360.437 886.993 ——————————————————————————————

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

53. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) the total expenditures incurred by the Ministry for the promotion of National Game of Hockey since 01-01-2010;

(b) the present status of performance made in the said game during the said period; and 31 (c) the steps taken by the Government to promote said game at National and International levels during the said period?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordunation (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada): (a) Government/Pakistan Sports Board has released the following financial assistance to Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) for promotion of hockey during the last five year:— 32 (b) Pakistan Hockey Federations is affiliated with Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and responsible for promotion of hockey sport in the country. The record of achievements of Senior and Junior Hockey team is attached at Annexure-I

(c) Hockey is the game of our national pride and it has played a vital role in winning laurels and good name to Pakistan in the International arena. The steps taken by the government for the promotion of hockey are as under:

(a) PSB sponsored the visit of Pakistan hockey team to participate in the Qualifying Round. Fintro Hockey World League Semi Finals at Antwerp, from 14th June to 6th July, 2015.

(b) Government/PSB took extra ordinary measures to ensure the participation of Pakistan hockey team in the upcoming Olympics in .

(c) Government has been actively engaged in promoting hockey as a national game. Government has rendered every possible assistance to the federation. However the performance of the PHF and Pakistan hockey team in recent past including Olympic, Qualifying Round played in Belgium was reviewed. It has been transpired that:

(i) The management of Pakistan Hockey Federation including the Coaches and Selection Committee performed poorly. The Federation was disorganized, lacked professionalism and sense of responsibility.

(ii) This view was established through Inquiry Committee which was constituted under the orders of the Prime Minister of Pakistan after the debacle of the team in Belgium.

(iii) The audit of the PHF conducted by the Auditor General reveals serious mis-management, corrupt practices and carelessness on the part of ex-office bearers.

(d) The Prime Minister has taken serious view and has desired immediate action. The matter pertaining to the years 2009-2014 were focused and serious action is in pipeline.

(e) The government decided to change the status quo of the federation. 33 (f) Prime Minister/Patron-in-Chief of Pakistan Hockey Federation nominated Brig. (R) Muhammad Khalid Sajjad Khokhar as President, Pakistan Hockey Federation. His nomination has already been ratified by the PHF Congress in its meeting held on 27th August, 2015 at Islamabad.

(g) The new management of the PHF has appointed new selection committee and coaching staff of Pakistan Junior team.

(h) Other initiatives to promote the hockey are in hand.

Besides, grants-in-aid were extended to the federation in the shape of annual and special grants. The annual grant is released for organization of mandatory national championships and to meet its day to day expenses and the special grants for participation in international events at home and abroad.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

54. *Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether Pakistan has good diplomatic relations with African countries at present?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: As part of Government “Look ” policy, there has been renewed focus on revitalizing the entire gamut of Pakistan’s relations with the African countries. In line with this policy, undertook a visit to after three decades. In addition, a number of ministerial and senior official level visits to Africa also took place during the last 3 years, the most recent being the visit to by Minister of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON). Lt Gen (Retd) Abdul Quadir Baloch from 23-29 May, 2016. From the African side, the President the President of Mauritius recently visited Pakistan (from 17-20th April 2016) on the invitation of President of Pakistan. Bilateral Political Consultation with and were also held in Islamabad in April and May 2016, respectively.

Pakistan greatly values its relations with Africa. It has been collaborating closely with the African countries bilaterally as well as in multilateral for a including the UN. Pakistan also regularly cooperates with the 27 African member states in 34 the OIC. The bilateral trade of Pakistan with Africa is roughly around US$ 3 billion, with almost same level of exports and imports.

Moreover, on the instructions of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, a cash donation amounting to USD $ 100,000 was extended to the victims of drought in in 2014. This relief assistance was deeply appreciated by the Government and people of Niger. As part of this humanitarian outreach to a brotherly Muslim country, Pakistan again extended aid of 15,000 tons of rice to Niger in Febnruary,2016. In a nutshell, diplomatic relations between Pakistan and African countries are strengthening over time.

55. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state the initiatives being taken by the Government to improve the performance of the Pakistani Embassies?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Pursuant to Prime Minister’s directive, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all its diplomatic Missions abroad continue to improve their standard of services. Upon receipt of any specific complaint from any Overseas Pakistani, the Ministry urgently coordinates with the concerned Pakistani Mission abroad and the relevant departments in Pakistan in order to amicably and promptly resolve the specific complaint.

The following steps have been taken by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Pakistan Missions abroad to improve performance and services for the welfare of Overseas Pakistanis:

 Establishment of an Overseas Pakistanis Division, headed by an Additional Secretary.

 Participation in Standing Committee of the Senate on Overseas Pakistanis.

 Participation in Federal Ombudsman’s High-Level meeting on Measures to Facilitate Overseas Pakistanis.

 Membership in the Board of Governors of Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF). 35

 OP Division’s regular coordination with Grievance Commissioner of Federal Ombudsman to promptly resolve complaints received from Overseas Pakistanis.

 OP Division’s regular coordination with Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and OPF.

 Up-gradation of Consular Hall facilities in premises of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, its Camp Offices in Provincial Capitals and all Pakistani Missions abroad.

 Designated focal persons in all Missions for Overseas Pakistanis, including prompt redressal of their problems and complaints.

 Name and contact details of all Heads of Missions and designated focal persons have been prominently displayed on official websites of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective Pakistani Missions.

 Establishment of integrated online appointment system by Pakistani Missions abroad.

 Heads of Missions organize weekly community meetings to resolve complaints.

 Regular consular visits by our Missions abroad to OPs residing in far flung areas.

 Establishment of Machine Readable Passport (MRP) facilities in 80 Pakistani Missions abroad, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and IMPASS.

 Establishment of NADRA facilities in 14 Pakistani Missions abroad, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and NADRA.

 Establishment and up-gradation of Pakistani community schools.

 Regular consular visits by Missions abroad to Pakistani prisoners and detainees.

 Legal assistance to Pakistani prisoners and detainees, including legal fees. 36

 Repatriation of released Pakistani prisoners and detainees by Missions abroad.

 Repatriation of destitute Overseas Pakistanis by Missions abroad.

 Expeditious processing and transportation of dead bodies of Overseas Pakistanis.

 Regular coordination with Ministry of Interior, IMPASS and NADRA on MRP, NICOP, POC and deportation issues.

56. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government to enhance domestic trade with Kazakistan?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The economy of Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia with GDP of about US$ 212.25 billion while per capita income was approximately US$ 12277 in 2014.

Trade between Pakistan and Kazakhstan is presently at the level of US$ 11.5 million in 2014-15. Pakistan’s exports were US$ 6.6 million while imports from Kazakhstan were at the level of US$ 4.9 million.

In order to enhance trade with Kazakhstan, Ministry of Commerce has been focusing on trade promotion activities and encouraging contacts between the private sectors of the two countries. In this regard Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) with the support of Ministry of Commerce organized Roadshow in Central Asian States including Kazakhstan on 13-14 May, 2016. The event was organized as a follow up of the visit of Prime Minister of Pakistan to CARs. The Roadshow provided an opportunity for showcasing Pakistani products in these regional markets, paving the way for closer trade links with these hitherto un-explored markets.

During the two days event at Almaty, Kazakhstan, a large composite display of Pakistani products by 40 to 50 different companies was arranged. On the sidelines of the event, B2B meetings, Fashion and Cultural performances were also organized. 37 Furthermore, other promotional activities to enhance trade with Kazakhstan include a Business Opportunities Conference proposed to be organized in October, 2016 in Kazakhstan and an exhibition of Pakistani products to be organized by Haripur Chamber of Commerce at Almaty in November, 2016.

57. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistani and Human Resource Development be pleased to state:

(a) the action taken against the persons by Employees Old Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) who were involved in embezzlement of property from 1st January, 2001 to December, 2013 alongwith the details thereof;

(b) the loss caused to the employees thereby; and

(c) the steps being taken by the Government to prevent the said embezzlement?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) On the direction of honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan, FIA has made investigation and around 16 FIRs were registered against the persons including (i) Sellers (ii) EOBI Officers (iii) Members Board of Trustees and (iv) Members of Investment Committee. The persons named in FIRs are either under arrest or are on bail (Annex-I).

All Governments Servants involved in the scam have been suspended from the service and departmental proceedings under Efficiency and Discipline (E&D) Rules, 1973 and EOM (Employees Service) Regulation, 1980 have been initiated against them.

(b) Property wise loss determined by the Valuators in their valuation report submitted in the Supreme Court of Pakistan is annexed (Annex-II).

(c) The Board of Trustees, EOBI, which was reconstituted after the above property scam, banned purchase of real estate properties from private owners, to avoid repetition of similar incident. EOBI investment in property is thus restricted to government owned properties that shall he acquired transparently by way of participation in the Auction. 38 Further, the Board of Trustees EOBI had developed EOB (Investments) Regulations 2015. The Regulations not only restrict real estate investments to govt. owned property, but also clearly delineate the duties,/ responsibilities of Investment Committee and Board as well as that of various EOBI departments like Investments, Finance & Accounts and Audit, so that responsibility could be clearly fixed on delinquent officials. The draft notification of these Regulations is expected to be published in near future. It is hoped that deficiencies in the system causing the above scam would be removed and no such incident shall occur in future.

Moreover, the suo-moto case being heard by Supreme Court is expected to be decided in near future. As the breach of PPRA Rules and other codal formalities were highlighted in the court hearings and FIA investigations, it is expected that the decision by the Supreme Court shall contain further insights and guidelines about real estate investments which will make them more transparent is secure, precluding the chances of repetition of any such scam in future.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

58. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development be pleased to state:

(a) the city-wise property purchased by the Employees Old Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) from 01-01-2001 to 31-12-2013 alongwith the details thereof; and

(b) whether it is a fact that 50% excess payments have been made for the purchase of said property; if so, the actions taken against the responsibles therefor?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) The detail of city-wise property purchased by Employees’ Old-Age Benefits (EOBI) during 01-01-2001 to 31-12-2013 is annexed (Annex-1).

(b) The previous management of EOBI had purchased 18 properties (Annex-II) on exorbitant rates as evident from the evaluation report made by the independent Valuators appointed by the Supreme Court of Pakistan. As per 39 enclosed statement, 50% excess payments or more have been made for the purchase of many of the said properties.

On the direction of honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan, FIA has made investigation and around 16 FIRs were registered against the persons including (i) Sellers (ii) EOBI Officers (iii) Members Board of Trustees and (iv) Members of Investment Committee. The persons named in FIRs are either under arrest or are on bail.

All Governments Servants involved in the scam have been suspended from the service and departmental proceedings under Efficiency and Discipline (E&D) Rules, 1973 and EOBI (Employees Service) Regulation, 1980 have been initiated against them.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

59. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government to increase the trade relations with UK?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): UK is a leading trade partner of Pakistan. In 2015, Pakistan-UK bilateral trade stood at 2.06 Billion Euros. Pakistan’s exports to UK amounted to 1.355 billion Euros. Pakistan’s imports from UK amounted to 0.704 Billion Euros. UK had been a part of EU until the recently concluded referendum held on 23rd June, 2016 in which people of UK decided to leave EU.

Pakistani products have had duty-free access in UK since 1st Jan., 2014 under EU’s GSP plus scheme. As UK negotiates its withdrawal from EU, GSP plus facility in UK is likely to remain available for Pakistani exporters for another two years. As a result of GSP plus; Pakistan’s exports in UK have increased by about 40 percent since 2013.

Import and Export figures between Pakistan and UK are as below

. 40 —————————————————————————————— Year Export to UK Import from UK (Billion Euros) (Billion Euros) —————————————————————————————— 2013 1.0 0.5

2014 1.2 0.6

2015 1.3 0.7 —————————————————————————————— Source: Euro stat

In addition, Government of Pakistan has taken following steps to boost exports to UK

1. Government of Pakistan has facilitated the participation of Pakistani exporters in the following international exhibitions held in UK (Annex-A)

—————————————————————————————— Year Name of Products displayed Exhibition —————————————————————————————— 2014-15 Safety and Gloves and Safety products (Jun.)2015 Health Fair UK

2015-16 Spring Fair, Textile and Home decor (Feb. 2016) Birmingham UK items ——————————————————————————————

2. Outgoing Business Development Delegations from Pakistan to

Government of Pakistan has facilitated self sponsored visit of a trade delegation from Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce and Industries to UK (June-2016)

Government of Pakistan has also facilitated self sponsored visit of a trade delegation from Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industries to UK (April, 2016) 41 Government of Pakistan has also facilitated self sponsored visit of trade delegation from Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industries to UK (June-2016)

3. Incoming business delegations from UK to Pakistan.

Government of Pakistan received 23, 28 and 06 UK delegates that participated in EXPO- 2013, EXPO-2015 and TEXPO-2016 respectively.

4. In partnership with Government of Pakistan, UK opened a Business Center in Karachi in February 2016 to facilitate investors and businessmen.

5. Since 2013, UK Government in cooperation with Government of Pakistan has organized numerous investors and business forums in .

6. Minister for Commerce has written to his counterpart to begin negotiations on a seamless transition from GSP to an analogous facility between Pakistan and United Kingdom. Annex-A 42

60. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of vehicles in Pakistani Embassies abroad at present; and

(b) the name of persons who are utilizing the same at present?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Details of total number of officers in each wing using the official vehicle, make model and year of purchase of each vehicle and total expenditure on each vehicle during the last financial year is attached at Annexure-A.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI, The 2nd August, 2016 Secretary.

PCPPI—1216(2016) NA—2-8-2016—650. 1 (34th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Wednesday, the 3rd August, 2016

9. Ms. Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the names alongwith the Basic Pay Scales of employees of the Ministry who have been sent on foreign trainings during the current year alongwith the purposes thereof; and

(b) the criteria adopted therefor?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) During the current year, 19 officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have proceeded on foreign training abroad so far (January—July 2016). These include officers who have availed short-duration courses as well as officers who were sent abroad on foreign language training abroad. Detailed table on this account is placed at Annexure.

(b) Normally, based on the required seniority level of officers (Junior level, mid-career and senior level) and qualification, the specific course is circulated among all interested officers of the Ministry. Followed by that, based on the Inter-se seniority, qualification and relevance of the course to the job-description, nominations of officers are finalized with the approval of the competent authority. In case of language training abroad, the FSP officers of the youngest batch who join the Ministry after completing their Specialized Training Programme and qualification of Final Passing-out Examination are offered a certain number of foreign language courses as per 2

the Ministry’s requirements. These officers accordingly give their preferences for the list of languages offered to them and one foreign language is allocated to each of these officers as per Inter-se seniority. -

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

10. Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the names of the countries importing cotton from Pakistan at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The countries that imported cotton from Pakistan during the last two years are India, Viet Nam, , Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, , China, and

Detail is attached at Annex-I.

Annexeure-I

Countries importing Cotton from Pakistan

Value in Million US$ —————————————————————————————— FY 2014-15 FY 2015-16 (July-March) —————————————————————————————— S.No Commodity by Country Quantity (MT) Value Quantity (MT) Value —————————————————————————————— COTTON 94,074 147.06 48,513 75.32

1. India 23,175 36.76 13,159 20.37

2. Viet Nam 10,031 15.87 12,013 18.94 . 3. Bangladesh 21,566 34.36 9,586 15.01

4. Indonesia 28,061 43.08 9,378 14.57

5. Thailand 5,887 9.13 3,493 5.17

6. Taiwan 4,212 6.38 485 0.71 ————————————————————————————————————— 3 —————————————————————————————— FY 2014-15 FY 2015-16 (July-March) —————————————————————————————— S.No Commodity by Country Quantity (MT) Value Quantity (MT) Value —————————————————————————————— 7. Philippines 199 0.24 203 0.27

8. China 97 0.15 99 0.15

9. Cuba 75 0.13 97 0.14

10. Djibouti 771 0.96 —————————————————————————————— Source : Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI, The 2nd August, 2016. Secretary.

PCPPI—1216(2016) NA—2-8-2016—650.