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

IslamabadSaturday, May 09, 2020 Pakistan’s First And OnlyP DiplomaticO Daily STPrice Rs. 20 Pakistan President Healthcare be thanks seeks people’s given Industry Azerbaijan for support cooperation status: RCCI Briefs COVID-19 relief work and repatriation of Pakistanis Pak sees highest Pakistan President Arif Alvi spike in virus thanks Azerbaijan for support DNA President phones Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev; greets him for successful NAM summit ISLAMABAD: The day Prime Minister Imran In this regard, President and Kashmir (IOJ &K) due to sized that it should be rejected Khan announced to DNA briefed President Aliyev about continued restrictions on move- by the international communi- ease lockdown restric- the latest situation of COVID-19 ment and lack of unfettered ty. The President of Azerbaijan ISLAMABAD: President Dr. tions in the country, pandemic in Pakistan and the access to medical and other expressed his deep concern Arif Alvi held a telephonic con- 1,764 new cases were steps being taken by the Gov- supplies. President Alvi said over the human rights viola- versation with President of the recorded with 35 fatal- ernment for containment of the that Covid-19 was being used as tions in India held Kashmir and Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham ities, according to an disease. President thanked for another excuse to discriminate said his country strongly sup- Aliyev, to discuss matters relat- update by the central Azerbaijan’s support for Paki- against Muslim across India. ported Pakistan’s stance on ed to the Covid-19 Pandemic, authority tracking the stan’s efforts in preventing and He highlighted that India was Kashmir. He further stated that and enhancing bilateral cooper- spread of the virus. combating COVID-19 outbreak. trying to change the domicile Azerbaijan considered Paki- ation to jointly address the sit- This was the highest He also thanked Azerbaijan rules in IOJ&K. He added that stan its close friend and would uation. President congratulated jump recorded in a sin- for facilitating repatriation of the basic purpose of this strat- continue to support it at every President Ilham Aliyev on his gle day. stranded Pakistanis. While ation to mitigate the impact of kistan and Azerbaijan, the Pres- egy was to alter demographic forum. President Ilham Aliyev timely initiative and successful The number of con- underscoring importance of the economic slowdown and de- ident reaffirmed Pakistan’s structure in IOJ&K which is thanked the Government of Pa- convening of the Non-Aligned firmed cases of COV- Prime Minister ’s vote more resources to manage resolve to deepen bilateral against the 4th Geneva Con- kistan for supporting his coun- Movement’s Summit-level ID-19 in the country call for Global Initiative for the crisis. The President appre- cooperation in all fields. Presi- vention. Noting the motivated try’s stance on Nagorno-Karab- Contact Group meeting on the has soared to 25,837 Debt Relief for developing ciated Azerbaijan’s support for dent Alvi expressed deep con- campaign to demonize Indian akh. The two Presidents agreed theme “United against COV- after the new infec- countries, President Alvi reiter- the Initiative. Emphasizing the cerns over spread of COVID-19 Muslims in the context of the to remain engaged on all issues ID-19” on 4 May 2020. tions. Of these, 9,093 ated the need for close cooper- close fraternal ties between Pa- in the Indian Occupied Jammu Covid-19, the President empha- of mutual interest. were reported in Sindh, 10,033 in Pun- jab, 3,956 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 1,725 COVID-19 STRATEGY in Balochistan, 558 in Islamabad, 394 in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 78 FM for global multi in Azad Kashmir. Meanwhile, 1,066 pa- tients also recovered stakeholder approach from the virus the same day, taking the er (Boston University) and billion were being distrib- total number of recov- DNA Dr Adil Najam (Boston uted among 12 million eries in the country to University). needy people, he added. 7,530. PM Imran had ISLAMABAD: Foreign Foreign Minister Qureshi Qureshi said an amount of on Thursday said the Minister Shah Me- discussed with interna- Rs75 billion was allocated government has de- hmood Qureshi on Friday tional experts the post for labourers and workers cided to ease the lock- stressed the need for a COVID-19 realities on the who lost jobs due to lock- down in Pakistan given multi-stakeholder global global geo-political and so- down. the impact it has had perspective approach to cioeconomic landscape. He mentioned that Paki- on the economy. address the COVID-19 He apprised the intel- stan suffered a dip in ex- pandemic keeping in view lectuals that in Paki- ports by 41 percent and its socioeconomic impact stan, COVID-19 affect- feared fiscal deficit to in- Pak rejects ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Japan H.E Mr. Kuninori Matsuda meeting with Information Minister Shibli Fraz. —DNA across the world. ed 24,073 persons and crease by 10 percent due He was addressing for- claimed 564 lives. to the current situation. Indian eign intellectuals through He said Pakistan’s health- He said Prime Minister Rights violations in Held Kashmir PM reviews video-link under his ‘FM care system needed im- Imran Khan in the same move Connect Digital with provement to cater to the perspective proposed in- economic Global Thought Leaders’ needs of emergency situ- ternational community for initiative. ations. ‘Global Debt Relief’, add- Staff Report President AJK Masood situation The guests included Dr He said the government ing that announcement ISLAMABAD: Re- William Ury (Harvard had allocated $8 billion to by G-20 Forum to provide University), Professor deal the economic impact financial assistance to sponding to media que- briefs French Media DNA ries, the Spokesperson Kishore Mahbubani (Na- of coronavirus situation. weaker economies was tional University of Singa- Under Ehsaas socio-wel- welcoming. said Pakistan rejects by the Embassy of Paki- medicine, livelihood and ISLAMABAD: Prime pore), Dr Kevin P Gallagh- fare programme, Rs144 – Picture on Back Page Indian move for “inclu- Mubahshar Bhatti stan, Paris in which the freedom of movement and Minister Imran Khan on sion” of Azad Jammu & Ambassador of Pakistan speech. Friday chaired a meeting Kashmir and Gilgit-Bal- PARIS: In a virtual meet- to France Mr. Moin ul He also apprised the to review the economic tistan in Indian TV ing with French media, Haque, prominent French participants of Indian at- situation and future out- weather bulletin. academia, think tanks, hu- media persons, scholars, tempts to change the de- look of the economy in PM greets new Iraqi PM Like the so-called “po- man rights organizations, intellectuals and civil so- mography of the disputed wake of COVID-19 situa- litical maps” issued last and civil society, President ciety representatives par- region first by unilateral- tion. year by India, this move Azad Jammu and Kash- ticipated. ly and illegally revoking A detailed presentation DNA is also legally void, con- mir Sardar Masood Khan The President AJK in his Article 370 and 35A of was made by the Finance trary to reality, and in said that India was using address contrasted the its Constitution and later Ministry about the over- ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran violation of the relevant the cover of coronavirus worldwide Covid-19 lock- through new domicile law, all situation and the per- Khan has conveyed felicitations to United Nations Security pandemic to break the downs to save the people which were in contraven- formance of various mac- Mustafa al-Kadhimi on his assumption Council (UNSC) Reso- will of Kashmiris by de- from deadly pandemic tion of several resolutions roeconomic indicators of office as the Prime Minister of Iraq. lutions. This is another nying them their right to with the 9-month old of the United Nations during past nine months The Prime Minister expressed the mischievous Indian self-determination and by lockdown in Indian Occu- Security Council which of the current financial confidence that under Prime Min- between Pakistan and Iraq, Prime action in support of a altering the status of the pied Jammu and Kashmir forbade both India and year. ister Al-Kadhimi’s leadership, the Minister Imran Khan conveyed that spurious claim and fur- internationally recognized where 8 million Kashmiris Pakistan to unilaterally The Prime Minister was goals for reforms, national unity and he looked forward to working with ther evidence of India’s disputed region. were virtually under siege change the status of the also apprised of the eco- development in Iraq would be further Prime Minister Al-Kadhimi to fur- irresponsible behaviour. The virtual video con- like conditions, without disputed region of Jammu nomic impact of COV- advanced. ther deepen bilateral cooperation in ference was convened access to food, education, and Kashmir. ID-19 pandemic. Underlining the close fraternal ties diverse fields. Inside... Six jawans Healthcare, education be All sections of Chinese society support embrace given Industry shahadat status: RCCI Pakistan to fight epidemic: Report – Page 02 RAWALPINDI: Security nese military pasted cards with Punjab to cope with epidemic. over 1500 packs of food such as Forces conducted routine DNA warm slogan and army emblem On April 26th, the first batch of rice, flour, sugar, oil and daily ne- COVID-19 patrolling In Buleda, Dis- on the boxes of supplies. medical supplies donated by Chi- cessities to Minister of State for trict Kech, 14 kms from lockdown ISLAMABAD: All sections of Peering with the shipments, a na Three Gorges Corporation SAFRON and Narcotics Affairs Pakistan - Iran Border to paradox: analytics Chinese society are generously team composed of military med- (CTG) for Pakistan to contain as donation check possible routes used or values supporting Pakistan, donating ical experts was also dispatched COVID-19 arrived at the Islam- for the Afghan refugees trapped by terrorists in mountani- – Page 03 medical supplies and funds, shar- to support Pakistan overcome abad International Airport. In- in camps in Pakistan due to lock- ous and extremely treach- ing experience of anti-epidemic the outbreak. cluding more than 400thousand down amid COVID-19 pandemic. erous terrain of Mekran. GAAC provides and dispatching medical experts A high school in China Hebei medical masks, 8,000 protective On the same day, Zong (China As the FC South Ba- huge relief to overcome COVID-19 virous. province donated 5,000 medi- suits, thousands of other protec- Mobile Pakistan) has donated lochistan troops were mov- According to Gwadar Pro, in re- package to cal masks to Pakistan. With the tive devices and 33respirators Rs7 million to Prime Minister ing back to their base after cent fortnight, Chinese govern- help of the Pakistani embassy in gross weighed 13tons. Relief Fund for COVID-19 Pan- needy people assigned patrolling duty, ment and the people, enhanced China, this high school has set tonomous Region departed from This batch of supplies was con- demic Relief Fund 2020. SAPM reconnaissance vehicle of Sterilisation their support to Pakistan in its up a donation channel. Students the provincial capital. Including sidered as the largest donations Zulfikar Bukhari thanked the FC troops was targeted gates in Makkah, efforts, to fight the epidemic. donated their pocket money and 1,000 N95 masks, 20,000 medical Pakistan has received from for- CRO for donating generously to- with remote controlled Madina Haram On April 24th, Chinese military purchased masks uniformly. masks, 500 protective suits and eign enterprises since the out- wards the PM corona relief fund IED. Resultantly , 1 officer sent a batch of medical supplies On the same day, a batch of medi- so on amounted to more than 120 break of the virus in the country. and urged private sectors to join & 5 soldiers embraced – Back Page to Pakistan, such as masks, test- cal supplies donated by the govern- thousand CNY or RB 2.7million , On April 30th,Chinese Ambassa- the government’s efforts in fight Shahadat while 1 soldier ing kits and protective suits. Chi- ment of China’s Ningxia Hui Au- those supplies was sent to support dor to Pakistan Yao Jing handed against COVID-19. got injured. – DNA IslamabadPOST 02

METROLITESaturday, May 09, 2020 Briefs China offers ‘Master’s Programme 2020-21’

DNA

ISLAMABAD: The gov- ernment of China has an- nounced “Youth of Excel- lence Scheme of China (YES-China) - Master’s Programme 2020-21” to promote the mutual un- derstanding and friend- ship between China and other countries and to provide education oppor- tunities to the youths in developing countries. As per announcement made on Higher Educa- tion Commission (HEC)’s official website, the Chi- nese government has established the YES-Chi- na for outstanding youth ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Syed Fakhar Imam welcomed Chinese Ambassador Mr. Yao Jing on the occasion of Reception Ceremony coming to China to pursue of the Medical Equipment donated by the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Affairs (MARA). – DNA a master’s degree. For the academic year 2020-21, eight master’s degree pro- grammes in seven leading Faisal mother Chinese universities are passes away open to applicants from Healthcare, education be 79 developing countries including Pakistan. DNA The application deadline is May 20 and this pro- given Industry status: RCCI ISLAMABAD: The moth- gramme is only available er of Chairman Senate for government sector Addressing a video conference struction package, no source the Federal Board of Revenue other tax laws. Standing Committee on employees including all DNA on tax laws and incentives giv- of income should be asked for should revise its revenue tar- Former President Dr. Shimail Information, Broadcasting public sector institutions en to the construction sector a certain time period for any gets considering low economic Daud recommended that the Senator Faisal Javed Khan of developing countries. RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpin- at chamber house, RCCI pres- investments made in any indus- activity and prioritise facilitat- social sectors need urgent at- passed away on Friday di Chamber of Commerce and ident Saboor Malik said that try to boost the industrialisa- ing the businessmen in these tention from the government morning in Islamabad. Industry (RCCI) has urged gov- country’s economy is going tion in the country. times of crisis. and must be given industry According to Pakistan JKNF pays ernment to extend the incen- through a difficult phase. He urged the government to Senator Mian Atiq while ad- status. Tehreek Insaf (PTI) Cen- tive packages given to construc- There is a need to extend the lower the sales tax rate amidst dressing the meeting lauded Senior Vice President Nosh- tral Media Department, her tributes tion sector to other sectors as incentives to other sectors as the COVID-19 lock down in the RCCI efforts for organizing the erwan Khalil Khan, Vice Pres- funeral will be offered this to Riyaz well. It was also suggested that well to attract foreign direct country to provide stimulus video conference for members ident Muhammad Hamza Sa- afternoon and would be laid sectors such as healthcare, edu- investment and enhance trade to the falling economy while to get the latest information on roosh, and a large number of to rest. PTI also appealed Naikoo cation and gems and jewellery activities at the national level. allowing the business activi- government's recent package members attended the meet- to people to remember be formalised. Similar to the announced con- ties with SOPs. He said that for the construction sector and ing via Zoom. and offer fateha and special ISLAMABAD: Jammu prayers for departed moth- and Kashmir National er of Senator Faisal Javed. Front (JKNF)has paid eu- logizing tributes to Hizb Experts PTCL provides ration operational Commander COVID 19: Guidelines Over Riyaz Ahmed Naikoo and discuss PM to needy families other martyrs who were for protection of charging in martyred by the Indian package ernment. Majority of the occupation forces during Fiaz Chaudrhy ration distribution was Attock to be a cordon and search op- children issued conducted by the District eration in south Kashmir. DNA ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Administration at the Mo- checked If you find symptoms of rona virus. The closure of Telecommunication Com- hammadzai Union Council The JKNF spokesman, ISLAMABAD: Iqbal In- Shaheen Qureshi Corona virus cough, flu schools and playgrounds pany Limited (PTCL), of Kohat. ATTOCK: District admin- in a statement issued in stitute of Policy studies and fever in children, im- have led to increased use embarks upon a massive This ceremony marks the istration is trying its best here, said that command- conducted an online ISLAMABAD: Ministry mediately contact your of internet among children. Ramazan ration drive to 1st phase of the ration to control over charging er Naikoo and Adil were interactive session to of Human Rights issues doctor. It is important to ensure provide relief for families drive that will continue and hoarding of edibles the proud sons of the soil discuss Prime Minister guidelines for protection In case of any concerns, that your children and affectedduring the Coro- throughout the month of across the district to en- whose years’ long unwa- Imran Khan’s Construc- of children during COV- you can contact help line family members have navirus pandemic. Ramazan. sure maximum relief to vering struggle against tion Incentive Package ID19 to create public 1099 of Ministry of Hu- access to correct infor- The ration drive initiative On the occasion,Zia ul- the people living in urban Indian imperialism would in order to increase awareness. man Rights for guidance. mation related to Corona will becovering 25 cities lah Bangash, Advisor to and rural areas. remain an inspiration for the employment oppor- According to the guide- You must encourage your virus. across Pakistan in the Chief Minister Khyber District Officer Industry the coming generations. tunities in the coun- lines issued, parents can children to communicate It is also important to coming days. Pakhtunkhwa (KP), said, Rabia Naseem said that “The whole Kashmiri try amidst COVID-19 help children at home in and talk in case you find keep check that children The ration packs for an “We are grateful and much on daily basis prices of nation is proud of these pandemic. The Prime their studies due to clo- any symptoms of stress in do not become victim of entire month comprising obliged at the support giv- the edibles are being mon- brave sons who sacri- Minister’s construc- sure of educational insti- children. some online misconduct. ofessential food items, en by PTCL and its staff itored and efforts made to ficed their precious lives tion incentive package tutions. The symptoms of stress Parents must encourage were distributed amongst who have generously con- ensure implementation of for the noble cause”, the concentrates on tax re- Parents must motivate are lack of sleep, hunger their children to keep in a few beneficiary families tributed to help the nation price lists issued by the spokesman said adding bates and incentives in their children to wash and sadness. You can con- touch with their teach- at a special ceremony or- in these trying times. administration in all teh- that the blood of martyrs the construction center, their hands again and tact on helpline of Min- ers and friends through ganized at District Com- “We appreciatetheir con- sils . She said although ad- was like a seed of resist- the intention of which is again for twenty seconds. istry of Human Rights in phone and video chat. missioner (DC) Office, tribution and efforts at ministration is utilizing all ance that will continue to ensure a quick activa- If any person in the family case of any physical and The awareness material Kohat. The ceremony this time in needand I resources to control price to germinate and haunt tion of economic activi- posses symptoms of Coro- psychological problem in is shared through official was attended by senior would also like to pay trib- hike , over charging and the oppressor in many ty and to encourage in- na virus must self isolate your children. social media accounts management from PTCL, ute to the services that hoarding yet cooperation different forms. – APP vestors to invest in low to protect children and Children can be victims of of Ministry of Human along with high-ranking they are providing to keep of the people was manda- cost housing schemes. IESCO other family members. secondary effects of Co- Rights. officers of the KP Gov- the country connected.” tory. – APP notification COMSTECH project on ISLAMABAD: The Islam- abad Electric Supply Com- food security on cards pany (IESCO) on Friday notified power suspension ISLAMABAD: The capacity training courses on the in- programme for Saturday building project of COM- troduction of New Breeding for various areas of its STECH the Ministerial Technologies in Agricul- region due to necessary Standing Committee on ture to achieve nutritional maintenance and routine Scientific and Technological food security, said a news development work. Cooperation of the OIC (Or- release. Scientists from Na- According to IESCO ganization of Islamic Coop- tional Institute of Biotech- Spokesman, the power eration) on the use of New nology and Genetic Engi- supply of different feed- Breeding Technologies for neering (NIBGE), Pakistan ers and grid stations Food and Nutritional Secu- are among leading trainers would remain suspend- rity has been selected for in this project. The project ed for the period from this year’s project funding was conceived and designed 07:00am to 10:00am, under COMCEC project in close collaboration with Dandot feeder, 07:00am funding scheme. NIBGE, Pakistan, and Nigde to 11:00am, Qazi Abad, The Economic and Com- Ömer Halisdemir University Dhok Pathan, Tehi, Kot mercial Cooperation (NOHU), Turkey. Sarang, Balawara, Kot- Standing Committee of the It directly helps to ensure li Sattian, Lakho Road, Islamic Cooperation Organ- food security and nutrition Katarian, New Kalyam, ization (COMCEC) is one in the 7 OIC member coun- Jinnah Camp, Kurri of the four Standing Com- tries while indirectly works Road, Muslim Town, mittees of the OIC, which to increase resilience of the Khurram Cly, Fazaia, was established in 1981 and food system in the member Noor Muhammad, based in Ankara, Turkey. countries. Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Service Road feeders The project envisages in- Choudhary, Coordinator 08:00am to 11:00am, stitutional and human re- General COMSTECH con- Dharabbi, Dhurnakka, source capacity building of gratulated Ms. Khazima, D.S.Bilawal, Bilalabad Pakistan, Turkey, Malaysia, Programme Manager for feeders and surrounding Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia leading the efforts in this in- areas. – APP and Egypt, seven OIC mem- ter-OIC capacity building in ber states, by conducting this critically important field. Saturday, May 09, 2020 03 IslamabadPOST Pakistan’s First And Only Diplomatic Daily Fiscal woes Editor-in-Chief: Ansar Mahmood Bhatti Journalists at risk Deputy Editor: Abid Raza HERE have been discussions about increased fiscal woes for Pakistan N the situation that prevails in the world today due to the Covid-19 as the number of infected people touches 25, 000 in the country and Vol: 01 Issue: 42 virus and its potential to spread rapidly, especially in overcrowded death toll also moves swiftly towards the 600 mark. Though the cur- spaces, the New York based Committee to Protect Journalists along T Email: I rent fiscal woes are compounded by the Covid-19 crisis, we need to keep in [email protected] with 191 partner organisations has written to the UN secretary general mind that even before this pandemic the government was unable to gener- Phone: 051-2266165 / 051-2261960 urging action ate the desired revenue and meet expenses in accordance with the budget Off: Awan Plaza, Block 18-A, G-8 Markaz Islamabad The CPJ states that at least 250 journalists are currently detained around stipulations in 2019 which were overambitious from the beginning. That the the world, and has passed on its FreeThePress campaign signed by more coronavirus pandemic has hit the country’s economy in a hard way is no more than 11,337 concerned citizens to organisations and powerful individuals surprising news. What is surprising is the manner in which the government is around the world warning that these journalists have no control over neglecting the post-crisis period in the next fiscal year. In all likelihood, it will their surroundings, cannot choose to isolate themselves and are often be much more painful than it has been in the past two years since the PTI-led denied even basic medical care. Some are elderly or in poor health. government came to power in 2018. The country is faced with the challenge of These journalists are located in 33 countries and the majority of them are repaying nearly 20 billion dollars of debt payment in the next two years, which behind bars to prevent them from voicing their opinions or because the will be much harder with declining remittances and exports. views they expressed dissented from the opinions of their governments. As many as five million jobs are already at stake, while world powers launch UN Special Rapporteurs, the European External Action Service and the policies to protect their interests that would adversely affect global trade and UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention have all received details of the employment opportunities. As the banks face problems regarding liquidity, fiscal threat faced by these journalists. space for the government will be further constrained. There will be a dire need In Pakistan, the editor-in-chief of the Jang/Geo Group remains in deten - to reset the IMF programme targets for Pakistan. The nearly 20-billion-dollar tion in a case dating back 34 years. Concern has already been expressed payment due in the next two years will include some of the principal amount over his health. The WHO and other organizations warn that people living and a staggering amount of interest on debt to international creditors. To fulfil in conditions where they are deprived of their liberty and must coexist these obligations, we will be once again soliciting additional amounts from the in crowded environments are also especially vulnerable to the Covid-19 international market in the form of new loans. But even then, it will not be easy virus. The WHO has recommended that selected categories of prisoners as the tightening of financial conditions will result in more complications in the be released to reduce numbers in jails. refinancing of external debt. Though the government has been able to curtail A move towards this was made in Pakistan, notably by the Islamabad High its bill of imports, declining exports and remittances are likely to cancel out any Court, but then quashed by the Supreme Court of the country, which held benefit the government is expecting to accrue from a reduced bill of imports. that rule of law must prevail and no legislation existed allowing for such This government’s policy from the day it assumed power has been to curtail im- release. ports rather than improve our export potential which has been stuck at less than It should be noted that journalists and indeed all political prisoners held 25 billion dollars a year, as opposed to a much better performance by Bangla- for voicing their opinion make up a special category of detainees. These desh. We need to see the Bangladesh model closely and learn from it. What have people are generally not a danger to society and in fact have been placed they done to outpace Pakistan which boasts nearly 50 million more population? in direct danger under the prevailing circumstances. They have been able to create much better goodwill in the international commu- The CPJ has also pointed out that at this time of world crisis, a free press nity than we have. Their budget focuses more on pro-people development with is especially important to ensure the free flow of information. Certainly, appropriate allocations to enhance human potential rather than enhancing the this is true in our country where there is much doubt over official figures potentials of certain segments of society. For Pakistan, it will be a challenge to and data given out. accommodate the thousands of unemployed returning back to the country, while We should act in line with the CPJ demands and join in the call to free all we already have millions in line to get benefits and seek jobs. We need long-term journalists that have been detained just because of what they choose to planning right now, rather than ad-hoc measures that may soon fizzle out. say or write or print. COVID 19 lockdown paradox: analytics or values S there a trade-off between saving lives and people in our country of whom 230 have died. we were, on the basis, yes, of political considera- Haris Gazdar saving livelihoods? Individuals make decisions The rate of fatality has risen from 1.4 per cent to tions, but anchored in values. And once we had I about this more often than they might notice. over 2 per cent in just the last two weeks. Even decided to combat terrorism how did we frame the There are around 1.5 There are too many hazardous occupations to list: if just a tenth of our population gets infected, at issue of its economic impact? Did we debate the mining, security services, bomb disposal, firefight- the current rate of fatality we can expect around cost of eradicating terrorism, or did we belt up and million deaths in Pakistan ing, sanitation work, waste disposal, high rise con- half a million deaths. An infection rate of a third created a narrative about the cost that terrorism every year. Not all of struction jobs, and so many more. But also there would lead to a doubling of the total number of was imposing on our economy? are multiple health hazards in occupations other- deaths compared to a normal year. If actual fatality Understanding the epidemiology of COVID19 is them are what are defined wise deemed not to be hazardous – street workers’ rates are much lower, as some have suggested, the science in the making. as ‘premature’ deaths. exposure to traffic fumes, agricultural workers’ ex- number of deaths might be as ‘low’ as 40,000. For That in itself would be reason enough to follow vali- COVID19 is a highly posure to chemicals etc. These are hard choices context – road accidents claim around 40,000 lives dated global practices to slow the disease down, so for the most part. We try to reduce hazard (health while air pollution causes 135,000 deaths in a year. that our mental and organisational capacities gain contagious disease. It has, and safety regulations for example) but also, ulti- The total death toll in the ‘war on terror’ was esti- time to catch up. We know more now than we did to date, affected 10,000 mately, leave it as a matter of individual choice. mated to be around 30,000. two weeks ago, and will undoubtedly have learned A person, supposedly, decides for herself or himself For communities and countries, the analysis of more in the coming two weeks. The same goes for people in our country of if a risk is worth taking. There are many flaws in this a trade-off between saving lives and saving liveli- any analysis of the economic impact of the disease whom 230 have died. The construction of choice, but also enough in it for most hoods is even more complex than it is for individ- as well as measures for its containment. What hap- of us to sleep easy, while people put themselves at uals. For individuals we can and do take shelter pens to our economy depends not only on the mor- rate of fatality has risen risk doing jobs that need done for our safety or com- behind the manufactured assumption of people bidity and mortality faced by our people, but also on from 1.4 per cent to over fort. What happens when some new source of risk being free to make their own choices. But for a the measures that we as well as our trading, aiding 2 per cent in just the last emerges? Such as COVID19? Our collective choice community or a country the choice involves saving and ‘remittance’ partners take. In uncertainty of will determine whether this becomes one addition- Person A’s life over Person B’s livelihood or vice this magnitude – with possible estimates of deaths two weeks. Even if just a al source of ill-health and death that individuals will versa. Because there is no simple technical way of ranging from 40,000 to over a million – it is not sur- tenth of our population gets have to face, or not. Do we accept it, as we accepted resolving this problem it makes sense to pay atten- prising there are diverse perspectives on the trade- rising levels of air pollution, or traffic accidents, as tion to collective choices already made. off between saving lives and saving livelihoods. infected, at the current rate a fact of life? Or do we say, as we did with respect Why did we choose to draw a line under terrorism The questions we have to ask ourselves are the of fatality we can expect to terrorism, that this new source of threat is not even though it was a smaller source of death than following: how low would the probability of a mil- around half a million deaths. acceptable, that we will make all efforts to stop it air pollution or road accidents? Was it because it lion additional deaths have to be for us to NOT to becoming a norm? As a society we have the capac- arrived suddenly rather than slowly and incremen- put almost everything we had into containing that An infection rate of a third ity for both fatalism and activism in good measure. tally? Was it because it threatened, if not stopped, number? This cannot be answered only through would lead to a doubling of Which do we choose to deploy now? to escalate exponentially? Was it because there was analytics. It is about who we believed we were, as There are around 1.5 million deaths in Pakistan a global consensus that supported our effort? Was individuals and as a collectivity. How we responded the total number of deaths every year. Not all of them are what are defined it because it threatened to overturn our existing will then shape what we become. compared to a normal year as ‘premature’ deaths. COVID19 is a highly con- order, and make us a global pariah? We made our The author is a Senior Researcher at tagious disease. It has, to date, affected 10,000 collective choices on the basis of who we thought Collective for Social Science Research. Economic Dynamics and Resource Envelopes Part of this confusion is also reflected in determining ply chains have by and large worked relatively smoothly debt deferment from the G-20 – and from a significant re- Asad Sayeed the fiscal response to the pandemic. Granted that it is an throughout the country. The matter of social protection, duction in international oil prices and savings on interest evolving situation but some determination of size of the however, has left a lot to be desired. The Federal Gov- payments because of the decline in interest rates. On the resource envelope that can be brought to bear for ramping ernment is in the process of disbursing Rs. 144 billion other hand, the lockdown has reduced tax revenues (both Much of the confusion up the health infrastructure, the provision of social pro- amongst 10 million plus women who have been on the FBR and provincial revenues). Pakistan’s exports have tection and saving small businesses during the pandemic BISP register through the Ehsaas Program. While there taken a hit because of the global nature of the pandemic regarding the policy on will help different tiers of government to calibrate their may be some overlap between those who have specifical- and remittances from overseas Pakistanis are expected lockdowns is underpinned responses in a more focused manner. It will also reduce ly lost livelihoods because of the lockdown, these lists to reduce also. Whether or not both sides balance each uncertainty in markets and the public at large. Transpar- are predominantly rural and the pandemic spread so far other out is, however, just one element of fiscal space. by an implicit notion that ency will not hurt in an emergency. It can only help. is mainly in the urban, metropolitan areas. This misspec- The government has room to reallocate resources from the State lack resources Dynamic Thinking on the Economy ification in targeting is being addressed now through a the existing allocations, mainly from PSDP expenditures From what we know about epidemics in general and Cov- separate scheme, losing precious time, which in turn has and the defence budget. The federal government also has to provide adequate id-19 in particular, flattening the curve of the disease re- impacted the legitimacy of lockdowns. ample room to borrow domestically and if push comes to quires slowing down the economy. Bringing down the rate A muddled narrative on the lockdown as well as delay in shove, the central bank can enhance money supply, even protection to the poor and of spread (known as R naught in epidemiological lingo) rolling out appropriate social protection support has given though that will be inflationary. To put it simply, the feder- simultaneously ramp up the through a lockdown at one or several points in time will currency to the notion of ‘smart lockdowns.’ These models al government’s fiscal space has a fair degree of elasticity. impact the economy differently. Therefore, the relevant are based on the observation that both the administrative The other issue regarding the resource envelope is dis- health infrastructure. But metric to assess the economic impact in this situation capacity and legitimacy of a full lockdown is limited and the tribution of resources across the federal government and how limited is the resource should not be the here and now but an annualized cycle short-term cost of a full lockdown is too high in terms of live- the federating units. Because of their constitutional man- (short-term) and the medium-term future period, say the lihoods. Therefore, after widespread testing, there should date, the bulk of the health expenditure is being borne envelope? This debate has next 2-4 years. Historical analysis of the Spanish Flu of be a ‘smart’ lockdown of those geographical ‘hotspots’ by the provincial governments. They are also incurring 1918 as well as preliminary modelling on the Covid-19 pan- where there are more Covid-19 cases, while keeping other a cost in administering the lockdown and where possible not happened yet in Pakistan. demic done by Yale University demonstrates that initial areas open. This method is premised on proactive (rather providing social protection as well. They are, however, in Knowledgeable commentators lockdowns reduce the spread of the disease and ease me- than the currently prevalent reactive) testing. This begs the a fiscal bind. Because of the reduction in FBR revenues, dium-term pressures on labour supply and aggregate de- question about the fiscal and administrative capacity to test the provinces will take a hit on their share of divisible have put estimates in the mand through reduced rates of fatality and morbidity. By proactively and to do it fast enough and its data processed pool taxes and their ‘own source’ revenues will also de- range of 2.5 to 5% of GDP not implementing a lockdown until the R naught declines swiftly so that a smart lockdown can be implemented. As cline because of the lockdown. Additionally, the borrow- (or the curve of Covid-19 positive cases starts declining) a result, even after a fortnight of the mantra of smart lock- ing capacity of provinces is close to naught. we will be trading off livelihoods in the immediate term downs being peddled, it is yet to begin at any level. In this situation, it is the federal government that has IKE many other countries, Pakistan con- with more cycles of the pandemic in the future. The Resource Envelope a two-fold responsibility. One, to determine the fiscal tinues to debate the trade-off between lives We will thus have more cycles of shortages in labour Much of the confusion regarding the policy on lockdowns space that is available and second, to create mechanisms L and livelihoods in the midst of the Covid-19 supply – because of higher rates of death, morbidity, and is underpinned by an implicit notion that the State lack for the provinces to overcome their resource constraints. pandemic. Much of this debate, it appears, has had caregiving for those who are sick – as well as disruptions resources to provide adequate protection to the poor Will the federal government provide grants to provincial two distinguishing features in Pakistan; (i) that it is in supply chains and aggregate demand in the short and and simultaneously ramp up the health infrastructure. governments, create a special zero interest rate credit static – in the sense that it views immediate losses medium future. Strict initial lockdowns can result in a V But how limited is the resource envelope? This debate line for them through the central bank or deduct it from in comparison to immediate gains in terms of lives shaped recovery in terms of economic growth, whereas has not happened yet in Pakistan. Knowledgeable com- future shares of their divisible pool allocations? and livelihoods, rather than its impact over clearly a more ambivalent response will mean the recovery will mentators have put estimates in the range of 2.5 to 5% These are important questions that need discussion and defined short and medium terms; and (ii) that a mud - be U shaped and if the virus is allowed to run riot, then of GDP. Whether it is within this limit or can be more is resolution. Fortunately, Pakistan’s constitutional architec- dled narrative is being put out by different stakehold - we are staring down an L shaped economic outcome essentially a function of the subjective assessment of the ture allows for these matters to be resolved. The National ers – the federal and provincial governments, other over the next four to five years. Choices made along this political leadership on their perception of the pandemic. Economic Council, the Council of Common Interests and state agencies, doctors, big business and small trad - spectrum now will determine economic outcomes in the Another way to think about the resource envelope the the National Finance Commission are forums where these ers. That competing interests will pull in different di - short to medium term future. nation is willing to roll out is to juxtapose the situation issues can be debated and resolved amicably. As the pan- rections is routine but when the political leadership It goes without saying that lockdowns hit those without a with a war with a visible enemy. demic peaks and the annual budget season is on the anvil, is unable to aggregate this diversity and put forth a secure means of livelihood (casual and daily wage work- The Covid-19 pandemic has altered the contours of Paki- these matters have to be brought on the front burner. coherent perspective in an emergency, it inevitably ers as well as those in small businesses) the hardest. stan’s fiscal space on both sides of the ledger. On the one Asad Sayeed is a Senior Research Associate at the leads to confusion amongst the public at large and Lockdowns will also collapse if supply chains for essen- hand, fiscal space has been created because of aid from Collective for Social Science Research (CSSR), fragmentation at the policy level. tials are not kept functional. Thankfully so far, the sup- donors – the IMF, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Karachi, Pakistan. Islamabad SATURDAY, MAY 09, 2020 | WWW.ISLAMABADPOST.COM.PKPOST

Briefs Senate COVID 19: GAAC provides huge session on President relief package to needy people Tuesday visits NA ISLAMABAD: Chair- man Senate Muham- been declared an other interna- free distribution is being made mad Sadiq Sanjrani on DNA tional disaster throughout the to the needy people. DNA Friday summoned the whole world claiming hundreds The people of the area have session of Senate ISLAMABAD: Presi- PESHAWAR: Whenever Paki- of precious lives. shown their satisfaction for this on April 12 (Tuesday) at dent Arif Alvi on Friday stan nation face natural disaster At this very need of time GAAC valuable intime help. the Parliament House directed that social dis- either the huge influx of Afghan has decided to provide basic They thanked Dr.Erose Pres- here at 11.00 a.m. tancing should be main- refugees or disasters of earth- human needs in shape of food ident GAAC and Engineer The Chairman has tained in the upcoming quake or terrible floods, Ger- stuff and sanitary items to the Alam Shahab Country Director summoned the session session of the National man Aid for Afghan Children vulnerable poor community GAAC Pakistan for their sup- in exercise of powers, Assembly for the safety under the dynamic and able who are suffering from long port and help. conferred by Clause (3) of the parliamentarians administration of Dr. Erose has lockdown. In an interview with Engr of Article 54 of the Con- and staff against the always extended helping hand In this respect distribution plan I Alam Shahab he showed his stitution of Pakistan, threat of coronavirus. to minimise hardships of Paki- has been made with the consent desires tokw continue their said a press release During a visit to National stani national. and approval of local authority food distribution amongst poor issued by the Senate. Assembly, the President Recently Corona disease has in Charsadda District wherein community in future also. – APP was apprised by Deputy Speaker National As- sembly Qasim Khan Suri and NA officials about the arrangements being Protest lodged made for the session to be held on Monday. The President visited the hall of the Nation- with India: FO al Assembly, reviewed preparations for the lage; and 22 years old Mu- norms and professional session and instructed DNA hammad Yasir, resident military conduct. that members should of Kirni village, sustained These egregious viola- be asked to follow safety ISLAMABAD: A senior serious injuries. tions of international law guidelines and sit one Indian diplomat was sum- The Indian occupation reflect consistent Indian seat apart from each moned to register Paki- forces along the LoC and attempts to escalate the other. He expressed sat- stan’s strong protest over the Working Boundary situation along the LoC isfaction at the arrange- the ceasefire violations (WB) have continuously and are a threat to region- ments for the session. by the Indian occupation been targeting civilian al peace and security. It forces along the Line of populated areas with ar- was added that by raising Control (LoC) in Nezapir tillery fire, heavy-caliber tensions along the LoC SMEs to and Rakhchikri Sectors, mortars and automatic and the WB, India cannot on 7th May 2020, result- weapons. In 2020, India divert attention from the get benefit: ing in serious injuries to has so far committed 989 grave human rights situ- Dawood ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister addressing foreign six innocent civilians. ceasefire violations. ation in the Indian Occu- Intellectuals via video link on Friday. – DNA (News of Page-1) Due to indiscriminate and Condemning the deplora- pied Jammu and Kashmir unprovoked firing by the ble targeting of innocent (IOJ&K). DNA Indian occupation forc- civilians by the Indian Indian side was called es, 14 years old Faiza, 10 occupation forces, it was upon to respect the 2003 ISLAMABAD: Adviser Prices years old Seerat, 7 years underscored that such Ceasefire Understanding; to the Prime Minister UBG seeks viable old Aaiza and their moth- senseless acts are in investigate this and other for Commerce and In- illegal drugs er Sona Bibi, residents of clear violation of the 2003 such incidents of deliber- vestment Abdul Razak budget proposals increased: Degwar Naran village; 44 Ceasefire Understanding, ate ceasefire violations Dawood Friday said years old Abdul Majeed and are also against all and maintain peace along the recent amendment UN report resident of Mandhar vil- established humanitarian the LoC and the WB. in the Secured Trans- in this regard, they should budget, which will attract action Act-2016 would Abid Raza make proposals which the much-needed invest- help in operationalizing help the government to re- ment to trigger economic DNA LAHORE: Central Chair- vive the economy through growth in the country. e-registry of movable UNITED NATIONS: Gov- man United Business upcoming budget 2020-21. The government is highly Shibli Faraz seeks and immovable assets ernmental measures across Group (UBG) Iftikhar Ali He said the private sec- appreciative of the contri- which would in turn the world to curb the Coro- Malik Friday sought via- tor wants to supplement bution of the traders and enhance easy access to navirus pandemic have led ble proposals for 2020-21 the government’s efforts, the business community people’s cooperation credit particularly by to the widespread disruption budget from business com- aimed at economic re- towards strengthening the Small and Medium En- of trafficking routes for ille- businesses will have to proach of compassion munity across the country vival of the country, he economy and promoting terprises (SMEs). gal drugs, mainly by air and DNA be implemented strictly. for weaker segments of for timely submission to said, adding that joint tax culture, he said. These amendments on land, upping some prices, He said that lockdown society. He said this step the federal government for proposals will help make He further said the gov- would also be instru- the United Nations Office on ISLAMABAD: Minis- would have to be im- would also help support fully ensuring growth-ori- budget document busi- ernment should increase mental in improving Drugs and Crime (UNODC) ter for Information and posed again if precau- small businesses in the ented and business-friendly ness-friendly, which the budget of health sector Pakistan’s ranking in said in a new report. Broadcasting Senator tionary measures were country. environment to boost the would ultimately result in the wake of coronavi- “getting credit” indi- The pandemic is having a Shibli Faraz on Friday not strictly observed. He said a long-term lock- economic activities during in a robust export-led rus outbreak. He said that cator by more than 20 mixed effect on drug produc- said people's cooperation He said coronavirus pan- down could ruin employ- coronavirus pandemic. growth. all the taxes imposed on positions in the World tion in different regions and was vital for the success demic was a common ment of people involved Talking to a delegation He said they will demand health products and servic- Bank’s ease of doing on smuggling by air, land and of lifting the restrictions issue, which can only be in small businesses. of leading importers and duty on primary raw mate- es should be waived so that business report, said a sea, but the overall trend in of lockdown. defeated with unity. He said economic activi- exporters led by Waseem rials, secondary raw mate- masses can access the same. press release issued by countries where drugs are In a tweet, he said Stand- The Minister said grad- ties and steps for protec- Ullah Anjum Arain he rials, intermediate goods, He also demanded the gov- the Ministry of Com- consumed appears to be rel- ard Operating Proce- ual easing of lockdown tion of people's health said Pakistan is passing semi-finished goods and ernment that FBR should merce here. atively uniform. dures (SOPs) for various shows government's ap- should go side by side. through ordeal due to coro- The adviser said the finished goods should be establish a special cell to navirus pandemic and at recent amendments levied on the basis of cas- study the impact of the vi- this uncertain time, busi- in companies act 2017 cading duty structure. rus on businesses and tax- ness community should would lessen the ad- Iftikhar Ali Malik urged payers. The findings should come forward with a clear ministrative burden on the government to focus be used to finalise a corona vision to come out of the businesses. on ease of doing busi- response package to stimu- quagmire of this crisis and ness in the upcoming late the economy, he added. Sterilisation gates in Makkah, Madina Haram

coronavirus. for the Grand Mosque and for reading temperatures, DNA According to Saudi24, the Prophet’s Mosque in- where it can read the tem- the move is part of the augurated the advanced perature of several peo- RIYADH: Saudi Arabia government’s “Together self-sterilising portals ple at the same time. All has installed “advanced Guarded” initiative which which sterilise people workers at both mosques self-sterilisation gates” at has seen precautionary with antiseptic spray and will be required to pass the entrances of the grand measures put in place are equipped with thermal through the gates before mosques in Makkah and since the pandemic hit the cameras to detect temper- entering them, and the Madinah in an effort to kingdom’s shores. atures from six metres systems themselves will combat the spread of the The General Presidency away and a smart screen be sterilised periodically.

Published by Ansar Mahmood Bhatti, Printed at Rohani Art Press, Islamabad