NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT ———— “QUESTIONS for ORAL ANSWERS and THEIR REPLIES” to Be Asked A

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

Thursday, the 11th August, 2016

123. *Ms. Munaza Hassan (Deferred from 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?

Tranferred to Defence Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

124. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan (Deferred from 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

Admissibility is being re-considered. 2 44. *Dr. Fozia Hameed: (Deffered on 03-08-2016)

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

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to increase the said earnings?

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. However, Goods Declaration (GD) filing fee @ Rs. 250/- per GD is being charged on Commercial Transit cargo and @ of Rs. 24000/- per GD on US Cargo. An amount of Rs. 27.8 million on account of Transit Commercial/ non-Commercial GD filing fee and Rs. 80.9 million under the head of GD fee on US/ ISAF / NATO Transit cargo has been collected over the last three years.

2. 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 revenues from transit trade.

3. As informed by Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Duty and taxes collected from border trade during the last 03 years are as under:—

(i) MCC Peshawar (Pak-Afghan Border) (Amount in Million) 3 4 5 (b) 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 econolity.

(iii) In order to facilitate the importers/ exporters, the following new Customs stations have been opened at:—

(1) Pak-Afghan border: Nawagai (Bajaur Agency), Khapakh/ Ghalani (Mohmand Agency), Teri-Mangal (Kurram Agency), Buki (Kurram Agency), Kharlachi (Kurram Agency), Shaheedano Dand (Kurram Agency), Chulam Khan- (North Waziristan Agency), Lawara Boya (South Waziristan Agency), Angoor Adda (South Waziristan Agency) and Khand Narai (South Waziristan Agency).

(2) Pak Iran border: 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 reduced well 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. 6 (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 Pakistan Railways is being reactivated with special reference to transit trade with Afghanistan which will reduce the cost of business for Afghan Transit Traders.

183. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

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

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

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) There is only one prisoner by the name of Mr. Shaheen Ahmed Khan who was arrested on 3rd July 2008 and sentenced to 20 years with a fine of US$ 10,000 in August 2009 on the charges of drug trafficking. He is currently serving his sentence at Phnom Penh Prison (PJ).

(b) His lawyer has filed an appeal in the court. At present, it is of possible to predict his date of release.

184. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in jails of Brunei Darul Islam at present; and

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

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Presently, there is no Pakistani prisoner in the Jails of Brunei Darul Islam. The reply of the above question may please be treated as NIL. 7 185. *Ms. Aisha Syed:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) repatriated to their own areas/homes during the tenure of the present Government; and

(b) the detail of facilities provided to them?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. Gen. (Retd) Abdul Qadir Baloch]: (a) During the tenure of the present government, around 197,178 TDPs families have been repatriated to their areas of origin / home till date. One family comprises of approximately (6.2 persons). Below are the details:

(b) The following facilities are being provided to the registered TDPs returning to their area of origin:

a. Transport grant @ Rs. 10,000/ family by the government (electronic transfers via SIMs).

b. Return Cash Grant @ Rs. 25,000/ family by the government (electronic transfers via ATM).

c. Six months food security in areas of return by World Food Programme. 8 d. Targeted Assistance of Tents (on need basis) by UNHCR.

e. Targeted Assistance of NFI Package (on need basis) by UNHCR.

f. Targeted Assistance of Tool Kits (on need basis) by UNHCR.

g. Livelihood Support Grants (LSG) @ Rs. 16,000/- in four installments and Child Wellness Grants (CWG) @ Rs. 7500/- in three installments by World Bank.

186. *Ms. Aisha Syed:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that citizens of Bangladesh who are sincere with Pakistan are being hanged in Bangladesh;

(b) if so, the steps taken by the Government to raise the above said issue with the Government of Bangladesh and at the international level?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Pakistan believes that the recent executions of several opposition leaders in Bangladesh, convicted for alleged crimes committed before December 1971, were done through a flawed judicial process. This is in violation of the 1974 Tripartite Agreement which states that the Government of Bangladesh “decided not to proceed with the trials as an act of clemency”. We have urged Government of Bangladesh to uphold its commitments under this Agreement. Pakistan has expressed deep concern over the unfortunate executions of opposition leaders in Bangladesh i.e. Mr. Abdul Quader Mollah, Mr. M. Kamruzzaman, Mr. Salahuddin Quader Choudhry and Mr. Ali Ahsan Mujahid.

(b) Pakistan has been issuing statement of concern at these executions, also drawing attention to statement of international human rights organizations to record their reservations on the flawed judicial process against these opposition leader. The Acting High Commissioner of Bangladesh was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a strong protest was lodged at the unfortunate hanging of Mr. Motiur Rahman Nizami on alleged crimes committed before December 1971. 9 187. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government to increase the exports of handicrafts of the country?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): There are several government departments which are promoting development and export of handicraft:

1. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), under Ministry of Commerce regularly participates in the local and international fairs and exhibitions, and organizes trade delegations to promote exports of handicraft items.

2. TDAP organized WEXNET consecutively for 2 years. The products focus in the events were ladies and children garments, woolen hand woven shawls, shoes, jewelry, furniture, handicrafts made of clay/ ceramics, dry flowers, gift items of fiberglass, colored glass, jute, wood lamps, embroidered items, batik work, health products, bed linen products and embroidered cushions of leather etc. Similarly, Aalishan Pakistan held in India also showcased Pakistani handicraft items.

3. TDAP also provides facilitation through Commercial Counselors abroad to the exporters of handicrafts.

4. For skill development and capacity building of the craftsmen, training institutes have been established under EDF in sectors like Textile, Leather. Surgical, Jewellery, etc.

5. Seminars on export related issues and standards are regularly organized for awareness of SMEs in the sector.

6. Aik Hunar Aik Nagar (AHAN) under Ministry of Industries and Production is a dedicated organization to provide capacity building opportunities to the craftsmen linked with production of handicrafts. These interventions include;

 Craft related skill enhancement and capacity building. 10

 Product development Designing.

 Technological Input

 Finishing & Quality Assurance

7. AHAN has been facilitating rural craft persons to display and exhibit their products in overseas markets.

8. Around 10,000 new handicraft products of various categories have been developed by AHAN. Moreover, approximately 142 clusters with 28,000 artisans have been trained under supervision of designers and product development staff of AHAN.

9. The trained artisans are facilitated to participate in exhibitions and trade fairs. Subsequently, these artisans are encouraged to develop linkages with major buyers and markets locally & internationally. AHAN has been facilitating rural craft persons to display and exhibit their products in overseas markets, such as:

 Handmade by AHAN at the exhibition organised by Pakistan Foreign Office Women Association (PFOWA) at Islamabad on 28th January 2014.

 3rd SAARC Young Entrepreneurs Summit on 14th February 2014, Governor House Lahore.

 New Delhi, India - Life Style Pakistan 2014 - “Aalishan Pakistan” by TDAP, September 2014.

 Manchester. UK, “Independence Day Celebration - Pakistan business Festival 2014, August 2014.

 Pakistan Women Trade Fair by SAARC Chamber Women Entrepreneur Council, Sheraton Karachi, Jan. 31- Feb. 1, 2015

188. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the items allowed by the Government of Pakistan to import from Afghanistan without duties; and 11

(b) the items allowed by the Government of Afghanistan to import from Pakistan without duties?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Both Pakistan and Afghanistan are members of South Asia free Trade Agreement (SAFTA), and under this arrangement, Pakistan is maintaining a sensitive list of 938 items. Except for the items on the sensitive list, all other items are importable into Pakistan from SAFTA countries including Afghanistan at tariff rate of 0-5%. There are 16 items on which tariff rate is zero on MFN basis, in other words, they are imported without any import duties.

(b) Under SAFTA, Afghanistan is also maintaining a sensitive list of 850 items. On all other tariff lines, the tariff is between 0-5%.

189. *Ms. Sajida Begum:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state the present status of the installation of wires and construction of Gate at the Pakistan-Afghan border?

Transferred to Defence Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

190. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether the trend of trade has changed after granting the status of Most Favoured Nation to various countries?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): As a matter of policy, Pakistan has granted Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to all countries except Israel and India. Hence, it is difficult to compare the trends in trade as Pakistan has given market access to all countries without any discrimination. MFN principle as envisaged under the WTO is applied by Pakistan for trade with all the countries. 12

191. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the name of places in Pakistan where Guava is being grown/ produced at present alongwith the quantity of production thereof; and

(b) the export potential of the said fruit?

Transferred to National Food Security and Research Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

192. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:

Will the Minister for Textile Industry be pleased to state:

(a) whether any survey/study has been conducted by the Ministry to explore the main causes of shifting numerous textile units abroad;

(b) the remedial measures taken by the present Government to bring back the said units by extending the required facilities and attractive benefits; and

Minister for Textile Industry: (a) This is not a fact that numerous textile units have shifted abroad.

The Government has allowed investment by residents of Pakistan including firms and companies for investment in companies abroad with prior approval of State Bank of Pakistan vide SBP circular FE-12 dated September 01, 2001.

By virtue of this Circular the State Bank of Pakistan approved following companies for investment in textile related business abroad in last five years. 13

Essatex LLC Essatex 0.216 31/Aug12 Dubai, UAE

It may be seen that in last five years only 11 companies have been allowed to invest abroad. The total amount of investment by these companies abroad was $ 6.324 million only. It is evident from the data, some companies have established their branch/ liaison/ marketing offices abroad to market their products. It can also be gleaned from the data that no company has invested abroad in 2015.

(b) The Government had announced a special package for Textiles Sector in the Budget 2014-15 and these facilitation measures were extended for the FY 2015-16:–

 The benefit of Drawback of Local Taxes & Levies Scheme remained available for the textile exporter in the FY 2015-16 under which they shall be entitled to the drawback on FOB values of their enhanced exports if increased beyond 10% of their previous year’s exports, 14 as per following rates: a. Garments = 4%, b. Made-ups = 2%; and c. Processed fabric = 1%.

 In the budget 2014-15, the Government reduced mark-up rate on long term financing facility for 3-10 years duration from around 11.4% to 9.0% to allow export sector industries to make investments on competitive basis. This was further reduced to 7.5% in February 2015 and was further brought down to 6.0% on 1st July 2015, the rate were further reduced to 5% wef November 2, 2015.

 In 2014-15 the Government reduced mark-up rate on exports finance from 9.4% to 7.5%, This rate was reduced in February 2015 to 6.0%, and it was further brought down to 4.5% from 1st July 2015 and the rate were further reduced to 3.5% wef November 2, 2015.

 Duty free import of textile machinery continued for FY 2015-16

 Spinning and Ginning sector have been included in Long Term Financing Facility.

Budget Package 2016-17:

 The existing scheme on Drawback of Local Taxes (DLTL) will continue in the FY 2016-17.

 Technology Up-gradation Fund: Technology Up- gradation Fund (TUF) Scheme for the textile sector has been formulated which will be implemented from July 1st, 2016. Currently, the scheme is under process in Finance Division.

 Duty Free Import of Machinery: The facility of Duty free import of textile machinery will be continued for 2016-17.

 The mark-up rates on Export Refinance Facility, will be brought down to 3.0% from 1st July 2016.

 Sales Tax of five export oriented sectors namely textile, leather, sports goods, surgical goods and carpets has been made part of zero rated tax regime from July 1, 2016. 15

 All the pending sales tax refunds till 30th April whose RPOs have been approved, will be paid by 31st August 2016

193. *Dr. Shizra Mansab Ali Khan Kharral:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Pakistanis detained in jails of Kazakhstan at present;

(b) the details of charges against them; and

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The details of two Pakistani nationals detained in Jails of Kazakhstan are as follows: —————————————————————————————— 1. Mr. Sarfraz Hussain S/oShafiq Ahmed, Detained since 31 March 2015 CNIC No.42301-5213528-9

2. Mr. Imtiaz Muhammad Detained on 01 July 2016 —————————————————————————————— (b) The details of charges are as follows: —————————————————————————————— 1. Mr. Sarfraz Hussain was found guilty on charges of human trafficking and has been sentenced for one year and four months imprisonment by the regional court of Almaty on 31 March 2015 2. Mr. Imtiaz Muhammad has been detained recently on charges of robbery. His case is under trial. —————————————————————————————— (c) The Steps being taken by the Government for their release;

 Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Waseem Shahzad and Commercial Counserllor Mr. Adil Khan Miankhel visited Mr. Sarfaraz Hussain. The Mission extended him all possible assistance including hiring of lawyer against US $ 4000/- to pursue the case of Mr. Sarfraz Hussain in the court of Law. 16

 The Mission has requested the Kazakh authorities for providing more information and consular access for Mr. Imtiaz Muahmmad.

194. *Dr. Shizra Mansab Ali Khan Kharral:

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

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (1) Ukraine became a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on 16th May 2009. Afterwards, Government of Pakistan signed the Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement with Ukraine to enhance volumes of bilateral trade between the two countries.

(2) Government of Pakistan (GOP) also intends to explore the possibility of negotiating a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with Ukraine on the basis of Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement.

(3) The bilateral trade volume between the two countries is given below: —————————————————————————————— Years Exports Imports Total Balance (US $ (US $ (US $ (US $ million) million) million) million) —————————————————————————————— 2013-14 72.5 231.4 303.9 -158.9 2014-15 55.7 380.9 436.6 -325.5 2015-16 19.2 93.2 112.4 -74 (July Dec.) —————————————————————————————— Source: FBS

(4) Government of Pakistan makes an effort to update its exporters/ businessmen about market opportunities that arise in the Ukrainian market. Consequently, Pakistan’s cotton fabrics, all sorts of rice, chemical products and synthetic fabrics have gained foothold in the Ukrainian market. Government of Pakistan also intends to explore the possibility of opening a commercial section/ trade office in Ukraine. 17 195. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

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

(a) the total number of educational institutions falling under the Ministry at present; and

(b) the details of the budget allocated therefor out of the total educational budget during the last three years?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada): (a) and (b) No educational institution falls under the administrative control of this Ministry. However, this Ministry is partially funding the following Pakistani Schools Abroad:– 18 196. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Government is going to import whey powder and meat; if so, the names of the countries alongwith the justification thereof; and

(b) the impact of the above said import on the local industry in the country?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) The Federal Government does not import Whey Powder & Meat and has no plans to do so.

(b) Whey powder is not manufactured in Pakistan and is used in confectionary items. A total of 20, 252 MT of whey powder was imported in year 2015-16 (July-April) from France, Poland, Turkey, Ukraine and 264 MT of meat was imported in Pakistan during 2015-16 (July-April) from Malaysia, India, UAE and Saudi Arabia.

197. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the steps being taken by the Government to boost up ties with Iran in the wake of recent changing regional scenario and Pakistan’s strategic position in this region; and

(b) the details of economic and strategic partnership between the above said two countries especially after lifting sanctions on Iran?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Pakistan enjoys close and cordial relations with Iran which are based on historical bonds of culture, traditions, religion and ethnicity. The exchange of High level visits between states highlights the importance respective countries give to each other in their inter-state relations. We may recall that in May 2014, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif undertook a bilateral visit to Iran. Subsequently, at the invitation of the Prime Minister, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani visited Pakistan in March 2016. The following documents were signed during this visit. 19

 MoU for Cooperation between Foreign Service Academy and School of International Relations.

 MoU on Cooperation and Information Exchange Between The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and The Bimeh Markazi —Central Insurance of IR Iran .

 MoU on Health, Research, Training, Medicine and Medical Technology.

 MoU on Cooperation between the Institute for Political and International Studies, Iran and Karachi Council on Foreign Relations, Pakistan.

 MoU on Cooperation between Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industries and Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture of Iran.

 MoU on Five Year Strategic Trade Cooperation Plan.

 Letter of Intent between State Bank of Pakistan and Central Bank of Iran.

2. Besides, there have also been several ministerial and parliamentary exchanges. Several bilateral mechanisms also exist for regular interactions between the two countries. The 9th Round of Bilateral Political Consultations was also recently held in Iran on 6-7 August, 2016. The upwards trajectory of Pakistan- Iran relations is visible.

(b) Pursuant to the signing of JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) major economic sanctions on Iran have been lifted. Both the countries stand to benefit in trade, power/energy, investment and financial sectors. The total trade between the two countries was over US $ 1.2 billion during 2009-2010. This was, however, affected due to sanctions-related problems and it went down to USD 268 million in 2014-15. During the Prime Minister’s visit to Tehran in May 2014, the leadership agreed to achieve a target of USD 5 billion in the next few years. Both the countries have also shown willingness to connect Iran with CPEC and emphasizing that the relationship between Gwadar and Chabahar ports, declared sister-ports, is cooperative. 20 2. Progress is also being made on Iran Pakistan gas pipeline project. It will go a long way in alleviating energy shortages in Pakistan and contribute towards our economic and social development.

3. Currently, Pakistan is importing 74 MW per day of electricity from Iran. Two other big power projects have been conceived, namely, import of 100 MW electricity from Iran to Gwadar and import of 1000 MW, electricity from Iran to Quetta.

198. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the detail and volume of food/cash crops exported during the tenure of the present Government alongwith the name of countries thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khuram Dastgir Khan): The US$ value of food / cash crops exported during the tenure of the present Government is as under:—

Value in Million US$ —————————————————————————————— Financial Year Exports —————————————————————————————— 2013-14 4,830.4

2014-15 4,705.9

2015-16 4,067.1 —————————————————————————————— Total 13,603.4 —————————————————————————————— The item-wise and country-wise details are attached as Annex-I (FY 2013-14/ FY 2014-15) and Annex-II (FY 2014-15/FY 2015-16). 21

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library) 199. *Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the total number of countries with which Pakistan has made trade relations at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khuram Dastgir Khan): Pakistan has trading relations with all the countries except Israel.

200. *Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the name of African countries with which Pakistan has no trade relations at present alongwith reasons thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khuram Dastgir Khan): • Government of Pakistan’s policy does not prohibit trade with any African country. Pakistan has trade relations with all African countries. 22

201. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether the visits of the Prime Minister and the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan to Iran and Saudi Arabia will ease tension between the two countries?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Pakistan enjoys close and cordial relations with both, Saudi Arabia and Iran. Historically, Pakistan has pursued a policy of promoting unity and harmony among Muslim states and has always expressed readiness to assist in resolving their differences through peaceful dialogue.

The purpose of the visit by the Prime Minister in January 2016 was to offer Pakistan’s mediation for resolving of differences between Iran and Saudi Arabia. It may be recalled that the Iranian President had appreciated the Prime Minister’s initiative and expressed his readiness to nominate a high-level official for engaging with Saudi Arabia on different issues. Prime Minister had assured that Pakistan would encourage Saudi Arabia to do the same.

Pakistan will continue with its efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation between brotherly countries.

202. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state

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

(b) the allegations levelled against them; and

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) According to the latest figures provided by the relevant Austrian authorities a total of 36 Pakistani nationals were held in Austrian prisons. Out of 36 individuals 24 were held in Criminal Custody, 10 in pre-trial Detention and 02 in Preventive Custody.

(b) Under Austrian law, imprisoned persons have the right to reveal or conceal information regarding allegation, punishment and sentences awarded to them. Only 14 Pakistani prisoners (list attached at Annexure-A) gave their consent to share their particulars with the Mission.

(c) Therefore, two Consular visits were undertaken by the Mission on this basis of willingness conveyed by these detainees. 23 24 203. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state:

(a) the date on which the bridge on Barra River in Teerah Valley of Lundi Kotal, Khyber Agency was constructed alongwith the cost of construction and date of inauguration thereof;

(b) whether it is a fact that the said bridge washed away during the rains;

(c) whether it is also a fact that the sub-standard material was used therein; if so, the action being taken by the Government against the contractor and other persons who are responsible therefor; and

(d) the steps being taken by the Government for re-constructing the said bridge?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. General (Retd.) Abdul Qadir Baloch]: (a) The said Bridge on Bara river was constructed during financial year 2015-16 and inaugurated by Honorable Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on 02-02-2016. It is located in an area where law and order situation is not good. Therefore the bridge was constructed by Pak Army. The estimated cost of the brief is Rs. 79 million as informed by office of the Chief Engineer.

(b) No. the bridge was not washed away.

(d) No steps are being taken for reconstruction of the said bridge, as it was never washed away.

204. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state:

(a) the steps taken by the Ministry to promote education in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) during the last seven years; 25 (b) whether it is a fact that the corruption cases have been registered in the FATA Secretariat regarding educational projects during the said period; if so, the action taken against the persons responsible therefor; and

(c) whether it is also a fact that the teachers of FATA are receiving salaries without performing their duties during the said period; if so, the action taken against the said teachers during the said period?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. General (Retd.) Abdul Qadir Baloch]: (a) The following steps have been taken by Ministry/ FATA Secretariat, Directorate of Education for promotion of Education in Federally Administered Tribal Areas during last seven years:

a. Provision of Free Text Books.

b. Provision of Scholarship.

c. Appointment of Teachers through NTS.

d. Centralized Examination in FATA

e. Enrolment Campaigns.

f. Open choice of admission.

g. Public private partnership through FATA Education Foundation.

h. Strengthening of Deeni Madaris.

(b) FATA Secretariat has informed that no corruption case registered regarding Educational projects during last seven years in FATA Secretariat, Directorate of Education FATA.

(c) As informed by FATA Secretariat sound Monitoring system is in place in Directorate of Education FATA and FATA Secretariat. Therefore, teachers perform their duties regularly. Agency Education Officers initiate disciplinary action against the teachers who willfully remain absent from duty. 26 205. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the target of exports under three years trade policy was fixed 95 billion dollars;

(b) whether it is a fact that the present annual exports are worth 24 billion dollars;

(c) if the answers to part (a) and (b) above are in the affirmative, whether the surgical instruments, food, fisheries, sport goods, cutlery and furniture items are exempted from export duty; if so, the details thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khuram Dastgir Khan): (a) Yes, it is correct that the target of exports was set at US$ 95 billion in the STPF 2012-15.

(b) Yes it is a fact that the exports in the year 2014-15 remained at US$ 23.6 billion as compared to US$ 25.1 billion in 2013-14 and US$ 24.4 billion in 2012-13 (figures annexed).

(c) Sub-Section 2 of Section 18 of the Customs Act, 1969 provides that no export duty shall be levied on the goods exported from Pakistan. Therefore, there is no export duty leviable on the goods under reference i.e. surgical instruments, sports, cutlery, food items, fisheries and furniture. Howeirer, export development surcharge is deducted @ 0.25% from all exports which is subsequently transferred to Export Development Fund. —————————————————————————————— Years Trade in Goods —————————————————————————————— Exports Imports —————————————————————————————— 2010-11 24,810 40,414 2011-12 23,624 44,912 2012-13 24,460 44,950 2013-14 25,109 45,073 2014-15 23,667 45, 826 2015-16 20,802 44,765 —————————————————————————————— Souce: P.B.S. Value in Million US$ 27 206. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

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

(b) whether it is a fact that the said prisoners are not being released inspite of completion of their punishments; if so, the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) There are 144 Pakistani prisoners imprisoned in Bahrain at present. There are 94 individuals in Men Reformation & Rehabilitation Centre, and 50 in Asari Detention Center (for under trial prisoners). There were 176 Pakistani prisoners at Men Reformation & Rehabilitation Centre (Jau Jail) but due to hectic efforts by Ambassador Javed Malik, the Government of Bahrain agreed to release 82 Pakistani prisoners in line with the pardon granted by His Majesty the King of Bahrain and now the number has been reduced to 94.

(b) None of the current Pakistani prisoners in any Bahraini jail has so far completed his sentence. Our Mission in Bahrain is taking necessary steps for release of these prisoners and always remains in close liaison with the concerned Bahraini authorities in order to complete their pre-departure travelling formalities. Moreover, in case if a prisoner does not possess travelling documents such as CNIC/NICOP and Passport, the Mission immediately contacts Ministry of Interior to confirm their national status urgently. The Mission has issued 18 emergency travelling documents during past three months to prisoners after confirmation of their national status.

207. *Mr. Imran Zafar Leghari:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the names, countries and date of postings of Ambassadors/High Commissioners of Pakistan presently posted abroad not belonging to the Foreign Service of Pakistan alongwith the justification thereof; and

(b) the authority who granted approval thereof separately? 28 Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The requisite information is as follows:

* He has been granted extension for three month, he will serve till the Agrement of his successor is approved by the host government, whichever is earlier.

(b) The Prime Minister is the competent authority to appoint Ambassadors/High Commissioners at Pakistan Missions abroad.

208. *Mr. Imran Zafar Leghari:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan at present; and

(b) the total number of Pakistani Refugees in Afghanistan at present? 29

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. General (Retd.) Abdul Qadir Baloch]: (a) At present there are 1.567 million registered Afghan Refugees holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards residing in Pakistan whereas approximately one million un-registered Afghan nationals are living in Pakistan.

(b) Does not pertain to Ministry of SAFRON.

209. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government to enhance the trade relations with New Zealand?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khuram Dastgir Khan):  Pakistan and New Zealand signed a Trade Agreement in 1990. In pursuance of this agreement, first session of Joint Trade Committee was held in March. 2012 at Wellington, New Zealand. Pakistan side expressed its desire to benefit from New Zealand’s expertise in agriculture and food processing. Pakistan sought New Zealand’s support in capacity building of its work force in dairy and agricultural fields.

 Pakistan also expressed interest in exporting mangoes to New Zealand. The mission has launched a formal request for market access for Pakistani Mangoes. Ministry of National Food Security and Research. Government of Pakistan in May, 2013 submitted particulars for export of fresh mangoes from Pakistan to New Zealand. Pakistan’s request for import permit is currently pending with the Ministry of Primary Industries of New Zealand (MPI).

 The next Session of Pak- New Zealand JTC scheduled to be held in Islamabad, in August 2015 has been postponed on the request of the New Zealand side. Pakistan has requested counterpart authorities to indicate a revised schedule for convening the JTC. 30 Pakistan- New Zealand Bilateral Trade (2010-15): (Value in million US$) —————————————————————————————— Year Exports Imports Total Trade Balance —————————————————————————————— 2010-11 39.070 67.971 107.041 -28.90

2011-12 36.201 49.654 85.855 -13.45

2012-13 38.335 46.393 84.728 -8.058

2013-14 35.501 42.399 77.900 -6.89

2013-14 37.488 46.256 83.744 -8.768

2014-15 39.766 59.806 99.572 -20.030

2015-16 33.559 49.992 83.551 -16.433 ——————————————————————————————

210. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps being taken by the Government to increase domestic trade with North Korea?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khuram Dastgir Khan): At present, the volume of trade between Pakistan and North Korea stood at US$ 40.6 million in 2014-15 and US$ 39,8 million in 2013-14. Due to closed nature of North Korean economy and international sanctions imposed on the county under United Nations’ Resolutions adopted by UN Security Council, no specific steps are being taken to increase bilateral trade with North Korea.

211. *Ms. Khalida Mansoor:

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

(a) the location-wise offices of the Protectorate of Emigrants in the country at present alongwith the details thereof; 31 (b) the office-wise approximate cases disposed of on monthly basis;

(d) the facilities being provided to the emigrants by the said offices?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (Pir Syed Saddaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) There are 10 Protectorate of Emigrants in the country, out of which 07 are working under Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BE&OE) situated at Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Multan, Malakand & Quetta, whereas 03 are working under Overseas Employment I Corporation (OEC) situated at Islamabad. Lahore and Karachi. The detail of 07 Protectorate of Emigrants of BE&OE is attached at Annex-I, whereas detail of 03 Protectorate of Emigrants of OEC is attached at Annex-II.

(b) The detail of Protectorate-wise registration cases disposed of on monthly basis (for the year 2015-16) of Protectorate of Emigrants of BE&OE is attached at Annex-III and of OEC is at Annex-IV.

(d) Facilities of insurance counter, NADRA counter, briefing hall, cafeteria, drinking water, Photostat machine etc are provided to the intending emigrants at Protectorate of Emigrants in the coantry.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

212. *Ms. Khalida Mansoor:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

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

(b) the allegations levelled against them; and

(c) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard? 32 Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) & (b) According to the official sources, there are 413 Pakistanis prisoners in Greece till March 2016 of which 311 have already been convicted and 102 are presently under trial. The charges include murder, rape, physical assault, human smuggling, and drug peddling and property disputes.

(i) Mission keeps visiting and will continue to visit Pakistani prisoners from time to time to provide consular access and to ensure their welfare.

(ii) Mission is making all-out efforts to motivate the Pakistani community to refrain from indulging in crimes.

(iii) The Mission continued to pursue local authorities to provide updated details of these prisoners.

ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI, The 10th August, 2016 Secretary.

PCPPI—1252(2016) NA—10-08-2016—650. 1 (34th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Thursday, the 11th August, 2016

53. Ms. Belum Hasnain:

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

(a) the prescribed criteria for the selection/appointment of selectors in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) at present; and

(b) the names and qualifications of the incumbent of the PCB selectors alongwith the procedure adopted for the appointment/ selection of said selectors?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz Husain Pirzada): (a) The selectors are appointed keeping in view their experience as International Cricketers who have represented the country.

In addition to their International Careers their involvementwithin the Pakistan Cricket setup is also a determining factor in their selection. The. selectors have vast experience as international Cricketers and/or they have a number of years being involved in Domestic Cricket which allows them to have a detailed insight into the skills of Cricketers and their suitability to be considered as members of the National Cricket Team.

(b) —————————————————————————————— Tests ODIs —————————————————————————————— Name Designation Played Played —————————————————————————————— 1 Inzaman-ul-Haq Chief 120 378 Selector —————————————————————————————— 2 —————————————————————————————— Tests ODIs —————————————————————————————— Name Designation Played Played —————————————————————————————— 2 Tauseef Ahmed Member 34 70

3 Wajahatullah Member 6 15 Wasti

4 Waseem Haider Member 0 3 ——————————————————————————————

The selectors are appointed keeping in view their experience as International Cricketers.

54. Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether it is a fact that officials of Pakistani Embassies are available daily to meet Pakistani people for the solution of their problems; if so, the schedule thereof?

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 to the community.

Heads of Missions and other officers are available to meet the community members to resolve their problems. Designated focal persons are appointed in all Missions for Overseas Pakistanis, for prompt redressal of their problems and complaints at any hour of the day in case of emergency or distress. Names 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.

In addition, Heads of Missions organize weekly community meetings to personally receive and address complaints of Overseas Pakistanis. This information is also prominently displayed on each Mission’s official website and within its premises for public information. 3 An integrated Online Appointment System has been developed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Missions abroad. Currently, sixty-seven (67) Missions are providing Online Appointment System facility for Overseas Pakistanis whereby meeting with Head of Mission/ Officers can be scheduled on-line through respective Mission’s official website.

Regular consular visits are undertaken by our Missions abroad to Pakistanis community members residing in far flung areas and Pakistani prisoners and detainees.

55. Mr. Isphanyar M. Bhandara:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development be pleased to state the total number of companies which have issued bonus shares after the announcement of 5% tax on bonus shares?

Transferred to Finance Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI, The 10th August, 2016. Secretary.

PCPPI—1252(2016) NA—10-8-2016—650.