Vol. 02 - Issue 12 ABC Certified www.melangemagazine.biz MélangeMélangeMay 2018

Prince

Mohammed bin Salman A TRIBUTE TO Leading Saudi Arabia Towards Modernisation H.E. Movlamov A. Nurlyevich Turkménistan Ambassador to Pakistan

A COVETED COMMUNITY IN THE HEART OF DUBAI

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FEATURE & AMENITIES TYPES & PRICES STATE OF THE ART GYM PAYMENT PLAN ALL UNITS SPA OF APARTMENTS FREE WIFI TYPE PRICE (AED) Descri ption Milestone Percent value SWIMMING POOL 1st installment Immediate 9% STUDIO 700,000 SAUNA 2nd installment 2 months after 1st inst 5% 24 HOURS RECEPTION ONE BEDROOM 1,550 ,000 3rd installment On completion 90% AMPLE PARKING TWO BEDROOM 3,300,000 CHILLERFREE Editor-in-Chief Amna Malik Board of Advisors Dr Ross Masood AIM to Boost Trade and Investment Dr Zafar Jaspal Kanwar Dilshad In the current era of global context, it is pertinent to understand the Javaid Malik Nadeem Khan dynamics of economic growth and investment in the region. Asia has Dr Tehseen Nisar undoubtedly benefited greatly from globalization, with many countries Mazhar Barlas Angelika Heike Schweer of the region relying to a significant extent on international trade and Dr Ammarah Rabbani investment as their main engine for economic growth and development. Editor Dr. Lubna Umar As the economies of the region continue to grow at the fastest pace of any other regions in the world, however, some have begun to question Executive Editors Erum Akbar how well the gains are shared within the countries themselves. Indeed, Assistant Editors there is some evidence that higher economic growth has led to increases Saima Zaman Zahid Rabbani in inequality in the countries of the region. This in turn has led to the realization that trade, investment and related domestic policies, which Associate Editors Chaudhary Arslan are de facto developed and implemented independently by various N.H Naqvi government bodies, need to be made more coherent if one is to achieve Staff Reporters a more sustainable and inclusive growth, as well to maintain a country or Sarmad Ali Khan Zahid Haleem a region's competitiveness in the global economy. The link between Foreign Desk trade and investment, particularly foreign direct investment needs to be Leyla Grate seen. FDI can be a substitute for trade, e.g., when a firm decides to invest and produce in a foreign country to serve customers in that country. Art Director Malik Nauman FDI can also be a complement to trade as efficiency-seeking firms look Director Marketing & Sales for the best location from which to produce and export their products. Amer Munawar Awan As trade barriers have fallen over the past two decades in most parts of Director IT the world and as intra-firm trade between countries have increased, a Fazal-e-Hadi strong relationship has been observed between foreign trade and Consultant IT Junaid Zia investment flows, including in Asia. At the regional level, the realization Event Coordinator/Photographer that trade, investment and other economic policies are inextricably Ramzan Mughal interlinked has led governments in the region to re-think the way Shahid Qureshi (Raju) economic cooperation agreements are negotiated. The tendency is now to negotiate broader economic cooperation agreements and the many Correspondents bilateral preferential trade agreements that have flourished in recent Fazal -e- Hadi Lahore Imran Zakir Karachi years in Asia now include investment provisions. In this backdrop, the Naveed Zaman Peshawar AIM conference plays a significant role in bridging the gap. The Annual Israr Ahmed Khan United Kingdom Dr. Taheem Nisar Europe Investment Meeting is the world's leading platform for FDI, aimed at Saleem Raza United States of America facilitating strategic networking and promoting investments. It is among Subscription the largest gathering of the international investment community, policy Yearly Rs. 5000/- (U.S. $ 80) makers, business leaders, regional and international investors, Per Copy Rs. 500/- (U.S. $ 8) entrepreneurs, leading academics and experts exhibiting up-to-date Cheque or draft should be made in information and strategies on attracting FDI.It organized key decision- the name of “Mélange” and mailed Managing Director Mélange makers from around the world, bringing together businesses and Plot No 38,Sector G-8-4, countries willing to engage in sustainable partnerships with investors. It Islamabad also offered a variety of features aimed at facilitating strategic Contact: +92 3008581439 networking and promoting investments while providing a worthwhile Email: [email protected] [email protected] learning experience. The eighth edition of the Annual Investment www.melangemagazine.biz Meeting held on 9 – 11 April 2018 at the Dubai World Trade Centre followed the theme of 'Linking Developed and Emerging Markets Note: through FDI: Partnerships for Inclusive Growth & Sustainable All advertisements and articles are published in good faith. The publishers are not responsible for Development'. In a span of three days, an array of activities took place any inconvenience or disappointment caused to. including a Conference, Exhibition, Capacity Building Workshops, anyone due to any advertisement or article. Country Presentations, Investors' Hub, Gala Dinner, Investment Printed at Roohani Art Press, Awards, various G2G, G2B and B2B Networking Features, AIM Muhammadi Town, Sohan, Express Way,Islamabad Published by Amna Malik, 58,Shahra -e- Suharwardy, Startup Innovation Showcase and Pitch Competition. G-6/4, Islamabad Mélange contents May 2018

Editor’s Note 03 AIM to Boost Trade and Investment The Big Story 06 Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Leading Saudi Arabia towards Modernisation Spot Light 09 US-Saudi Relations: Confronting New Challenges and Bolstering Ties Editor’s Choice 12 Returning to Cold War Politics Article 14 Cyber Security and the Female Presence 16 Gathering Dark Clouds 18 Emulating Contemporary Trends 20 One Belt One Road: Truly Connecting Asia Economy & Finance 23 Annual Investment Meeting 2018 Proved a Great Success 26 China Preparing to Lead the New Energy World Annual Spring Meeting of IMF and World Bank Brings 28 a more Comprehensive Monetary Analysis 30 Istanbul Welcomes: International Entrepreneurs Group 31 Chinese Delegation of Shenzhen City visits ICCI to Explore JVs 32 Neelum-Jhelum Power Project: A hub for Electricity Generation 33 Galloping Cryptocurrency Market Changes Course Life Style 34 Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump: Most Popular & Celebrated Couple Mélange contents May 2018

World Leader Donald J. Trump: 45th President of the United States 36 International Perspective Pakistan Addresses Drug Menace through Wide-Ranging Policy Changes 38 Building National Narrative on PEACE 40 In Focus General Raheel Sharif: Chief of the Islamic Military Alliance 42 Diplomatic Corner Pakistan and Turkmenistan: Working Towards Common Interests 44 Pakistan Remains Committed in Fight Against Malaria: PM Abbasi 46 BOAO Forum for Asia Pakistan & China – The Iron Brothers 48 Tribute H.E. Mr Movlamov Atajan Nurlyevich: Promoting Relations and Forming Bonds 50

Special Report Cyber Security for a Sustainably Developed Pakistan 52 Lets Respect the Intellectual property Rights 54 Random Clicks 56 News Update 57 Travel Destination Saudi Arabia: An Experience to Discover 60 Food Corner Saudi Cuisine 61 Book Review The Neopopular Bubble: Péter Csigó Speculating on 'the People' in Late Modern Democracy 62 Big Story

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Leading Saudi Arabia towards Modernisation describing the mullahs who presided over relieved that the transition of power was a Iran as akin to Nazis. The question for many smooth and peaceful one. They had no analysts around the world was whether he inkling of the changes that the Kingdom was represented genuine reform or was merely about to witness. In the context of the most using the language of reform to consolidate conservative country in the Arab world, Amna Malik power. One thing is sure however, that he where the emphasis has traditionally been on has become the one calling the shots with the quiet continuity, the developments over the full support of his father King Salman. past year and a half constitute a quiet Known as 'MBS', Prince Mohammad A Quiet Revolution revolution. The first surprise was the bin Salman is the king's favorite son and When Crown Prince Salman bin unprecedented removal of the man chosen second in line to take power in Saudi Arabia. Abdulaziz succeeded the late King Abdullah by King Abdullah as his heir, his brother MBS, has been consolidating power to an bin Abdulaziz in January 2015, Saudis were Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz, and the choice extent not well known until last year. That is of two princes from the younger generation, when the now 83-year-old King Salman, M o h a m m a d B i n S a l m a n B i n Mohammed bin Nayef (Salman's nephew) whose health is deteriorating, placed him in Abdulaziz al Saud and Mohammed bin Salman (Salman's line for the throne, supplanting the king's Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia youngest son), as crown prince and deputy nephew, Mohammed bin Nayef. Born in Jeddah on August 31, 1985 crown prince respectively. MBS, though only thirty-two¸ is already Father Salman of Saudi Arabia For the first time since the creation of one of the most powerful people in the Mother Fahda Bint Falah Bin Sultan Bin Saudi Arabia in 1932, power is set to move kingdom, has been the minister of defense, Hathleen Al-Ajmi from sons of the founder, Ibn Saud, to his chairman of the committee that charted the Married Sara Bint Mashoor Bin Abdulaziz Al grandsons. This shift is dramatic in a country kingdom's economy, and second in line to Saud in 2008 where old age and leadership have the throne. In a country long ruled by aging Children Prince Mashhour, Prince Salman, traditionally been linked. The new leadership kings, MBS is young, tall, and transparently Princess Fahda, Princess Nora Studied at King Saud University team, without delay, set about streamlining ambitious. Wanting to wean the kingdom the countr y's administrative and from its unsustainable addiction to oil and to Began his political journey in 2007 and became full-time adviser to the Council of decisionmaking apparatus, dissolving diversify its economy, he promised to end Ministers ineffective state institutions and the long-standing arrangement of Saudi On December 15, 2009, he became a special consolidating power in two supreme domestic politics, in which the royal family, advisor to his father, the governor of Riyadh councils – one for political issues, the other and its myriad princes, bought off political On March 2nd, 2013, Mohammed bin Salman for economic affairs. Young ministers with opposition by allowing radical Islamists to became president of the Crown Prince Court private sector experience were appointed to propagate their creed and even to carry out In April 2015, Prince Mohammed bin Salman slimmed-down ministries, answering directly t e r r o r i s t a c t s a b r o a d . M B S w a s became Deputy Crown Prince to the king and his two heirs. Overnight the uncompromising in foreign policy, In June 21, 2017, he became the Crown Prince practice of protracted private consultations

Mélange 06 May 2018 Big Story among princes before decisions were taken was abandoned. In the most radical change of strategy, in March 2015 the Kingdom abandoned its traditional practice of quiet diplomacy and led a direct military campaign to counter an uprising in neighbouring Yemen, which had seen Iran-backed Shia Houthis, allied with army units loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, driving the internationally recognised government out of power and occupying large areas of the country. At the same time, as global oil prices collapsed, Saudi Arabia broke with another tradition by refusing to act as swing producer in OPEC. The Kingdom insisted that it would cut production to boost oil prices only if all major producers, including Iran and Russia, agreed to do the same. With oil prices remaining low, in early 2015, the then Saudi's conservative clerics and came as he business environment, attracting the finest Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin announced plans for NEOM, a new talent and the best investments globally, and Salman unveiled a further revolutionary idea: economic zone that aims to stretch across leveraging our unique strategic location in break Saudi Arabia's total dependence on oil Saudi's borders into neighboring Egypt and connecting three continents. revenue. This would be achieved by Jordan. The zone will be 26,500km square, The third theme is built on an effective, privatising up to 5% of the giant state oil making it bigger than Wales and significantly transparent, accountable, enabling and high- company, Aramco, and setting up a $2 larger than neighbouring Middle Eastern performing government. We will also trillion sovereign wealth fund to generate states like Israel, Lebanon or Kuwait. prepare the right environment for our revenue from global investment. Also, public Modernizing the Economy citizens, private sector and non-profit sector spending would be cut and subsidies on Since the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's to take their responsibilities and take the founding in 1932, the royal family has initiative in facing challenges and seizing derived its power primarily from the opportunities. country's enormous oil wealth. With the In each of these themes, we highlighted country now experiencing an acute a selection of commitments and goals, as a economic challenge due to low oil prices, the reflection of our ambition and a royal family has generated a new blueprint, known as “Vision 2030,” outlining its plan to NEOM - The Destination for the Future Ÿ NEOM incorporates the new way of life modernize its economy and society while and the strategic crossroads in trade, allowing it to maintain its hold on power. innovation, and technology with livability The plan includes greater integration of at its core women and young Saudis into the Ÿ NEOM aspires to be the safest, most workforce, largely out of economic efficient, most future oriented, and best necessity. place to live and work basic goods and services selectively lifted. This vision is built around three themes: Ÿ NEOM is developed independent of the Some of the main goals to be achieved by a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an Kingdom's existing governmental 2030 included: developing a military ambitious nation. This first theme is vital to framework with investors, businesses, and equipment industry to supply half of local achieving the Vision and a strong foundation innovators consulted at every stage of needs; rising from 19th to 15th in the league development for economic prosperity. We believe in the Ÿ NEOM's unique location connects Asia, of world economies; and increasing the importance of a vibrant society. Members of Europe, and Africa, will include the world's private sector's contribution to the economy this society live in accordance with the most significant and promising economic from 40% to 60% of GDP. Islamic principle of moderation, are proud sectors Modern Vision of their national identity and their ancient Ÿ NEOM land expands over 26,500 km; its MBS has said he will lead his country cultural heritage, enjoy a good life in a location will facilitate NEOM's rapid back to “moderate Islam” as he announced beautiful environment, are protected by emergence as a global hub that has the plans for a vast new £380 billion economic caring families and are supported by an potential to bring together the best of development zone. He told investors in empowering social and health care system. Arabia, Asia, Africa, Europe and America Ÿ NEOM will be backed by more than $500 Riyadh that his economic modernisation In the second theme, a thriving economy billion over the coming years by the plans would go hand-in-hand with political provides opportunities for all by building an Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi reforms to guide the conservative Kingdom education system aligned with market needs Arabian Public Investment Fund, local as away from severe Wahhabi Islam. He and creating economic opportunities for the well as international investors claimed that "we are returning to what we entrepreneur, the small enterprise as well as were before - a country of moderate Islam the large corporation. Therefore, we will representation of what we aim to achieve. that is open to all religions and to the world. develop our investment tools to unlock our This Vision will be the point of reference for We will not spend the next 30 years of our promising economic sectors, diversify our our future decisions, so that all future lives dealing with destructive ideas. We will economy and create job opportunities. We projects are aligned to its content. The destroy them today. We will end extremism will also grow our economy and improve the government has already prepared the very soon." quality of our services, by privatizing some ground and launched some executive The prince's pledge is a challenge to government services, improving the programs at the Council of Economic and

Mélange 07 May 2018 Big Story

Development Affairs. and direction of the Vision 2030, where military hardware from the United States, Women Empowerment y o u t h e m p o w e r m e n t a n d a c t i v e Britain and other countries. But the heavy Saudi women are an important part of participation are catalyst for the success of spending never translated into an effective the sustainable development of the the vision. In addition, the vision entails fighting force that would enable the Kingdom. Recent appointments of Saudi c r e a t i n g p a r t n e r s h i p s b e t w e e n kingdom to protect itself and engage in women in leadership positions, the governmental, non-governmental, and military ventures abroad. participation of women in municipal private sectors to work together towards According to analysts, the military elections and the Shura council are instances empowering the society throughout the appointments fit into a wider reorganization of government support for women. transformational development. This of the kingdom's armed forces that seeks to Recent statistics reveal that Saudi direction will help to adapt, implement, make them more efficient and stronger women own more than SR45 billion ($12 monitor and evaluate the implementation of players in the region. Also, the Saudi military billion) in Saudi banks and SR130 billion the SDGs achievement in the Kingdom. is looking to become an organized, regional ($35 billion) in real estate investments, and Expanding the Defence Force force on its own, and looking for more are involved in many charities and King Salman is shaking up the leadership independence. These changes included a humanitarian organizations. Workplaces in of the kingdom's military and internal new chief of staff, General Fayyad al- the kingdom have seen a rise in female security services, elevating younger officials Ruwaili, new leaders for the air defense and employees and 86% of women occupy at a time of increased military engagement land forces, and a royal endorsement of a positions in the governmental educational abroad and sharp economic and social road map for developing the Defense sector. 40% of women work in the medical change at home. Recently the king Ministry. field. Furthermore, Saudi women are discharged dozens of officials across the In this backdrop, it can be observed that owners to around 25,000 small and medium- government, bringing in a new chief of staff the development of Saudi Arabia is a steady scale establishments and companies. for the Saudi military and new officials for project of modernisation, in which each Women in KSA hold 18 seats in the security and economic policy. A number of generation builds on the progress of its municipal council, 30 seats in the Shura younger princes were named deputy antecedents. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia council - which is 20% of the council, these has witnessed incredible transformation in a wo m e n h ave 5 0 , 0 0 0 c o m m e r c i a l short time and is in the process towards registrations in various provinces. Some further betterment with Vision 2030 setting 35,000 Saudi women are studying abroad in in. The government has dedicated vast 60 countries on government scholarships resources to enhance the wellbeing of the fulfilling the Kingdom's Vision 2030 based Saudi people. As a result of this strategic on the role of women and youth. vision, quality of life indicators in health, Youth Initiatives education, and economic growth have Various organization are aiming to shown rapid advancement that places Saudi provide a number of well-targeted thematic Arabia in the highest category of human data and indicators in specific areas towards development according to metrics the achievement of the development governors and a woman was appointed developed by the United Nations. This transformation of the Kingdom and the full deputy labor minister, a rare occurrence in astounding progress has been lauded by realization of youth potential. Aiming to the ultraconservative kingdom. international partners, whose engagement with Saudi Arabia has established the support the Kingdom's ongoing efforts “There is definitely a move toward a towards fully realizing the potential of Saudi Kingdom as a wellspring of innovation and younger generation,” said Mohammed prosperity. youth by promoting active youth Alyahya, a Saudi analyst and nonresident participation in the development process, fellow at the Atlantic Council in policies and strategies targeting youth are Washington. Over several decades, Saudi Author is the President, Center of Pakistan and being formulated. Arabia has spent hundreds of billions of International Relations (COPAIR) and An enabling environment is the mandate dollars assembling an impressive array of Editor-in-Chief of ‘Mélange’ and ‘ The Asian Telegraph’

Mélange 08 May 2018 Spot Light US-Saudi Relations Confronting New Challenges and Bolstering Ties

challenges. Forces of destabilization, socially, and economically. whether from violent extremist groups that Cooperation in Defense and Security pose a threat to Saudi Arabia, the region, and To advance our shared goals and the world, or from Iran, which pursues its objectives in the region, the US has been own hegemonic ambitions, threaten the Saudi Arabia's principal defense and security Erum Akbar status quo and undermine governments and partner for over sixty years and has helped societies. Domestically, Saudi Arabia is Saudi Arabia develop a modern and dealing with the complexities of growth and technologically advanced military capability. Since the end of the Second World War, shifting economic and social realities. That capability has been instrumental in the US-Saudi relationship has been a Thus the fundamental basis for the US- preserving peace in the region, preventing principal pillar of regional security, stability, Saudi relationship has not changed. At a the spread of the Iranian revolution and the and economic progress in the Middle East. time when the Middle East is challenged by spillover of the Iran-Iraq War on to the Within that context, Saudi Arabia has: twin forces of upheaval and instability — Arabian Peninsula in the 1980s, and turning < partnered with the US in resisting violent, predominantly Sunni, extremism, back Saddam Hussein's aggression from the destabilizing and expansionist and Iranian expansionism — the 1990s until the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. projects, whether by the former Soviet relationship with Saudi Arabia remains at Today, that cooperation has continued in the Union, Saddam Hussein's Iraq, or the the heart of US foreign policy and national fight against violent extremism and Iranian current regime in Iran; security objectives. Achieving those goals aggressive behavior. But these new < articulated moderate proposals to depends on promoting a stable future in the unconventional challenges also complicate solve the Israeli-Palestinian dispute Middle East and fostering an evolving the relationship and have given rise to a n d p r o m o t e A r a b - I s r a e l i region that can play a positive role in the skepticism on both sides about its durability. normalization, most notably the Arab larger international framework politically, Peace Initiative advocated by the late Saudi attitudes toward violent extremist King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz; and < cooperated with the US in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism whether from al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) or the Islamic State. Similarly, as the world's largest exporter of oil, Saudi Arabia makes a critical contribution to the global economy. As an a r c h i t e c t o f t h e wo r l d ' s e n e r g y infrastructure, Saudi Arabia's role in ensuring price and production stability in the oil market has contributed to overall global economic growth and prosperity for decades. Today, Saudi Arabia is confronting new

Mélange 09 May 2018 Spot Light organizations have been a subject of considerable debate within the US and the West, with a number of observers alleging that Saudi Arabia's religious views and social conservatism provided the ideological foundations of violent extremist groups from al-Qaeda to the Islamic State and that Saudi citizens have both participated in and financed the rise of these groups. There is clearly some ambivalence among many Saudis about jihadist groups, and some have certainly been recruited by these groups, but allegations of widespread Saudi support for extremist groups appear generally overblown. In fact, Saudi Arabia has inarguably been a principal target of jihadist groups, who security and stability from the deteriorating Saudis' inability to achieve a positive have made clear that one of their central political situation in Sana'a. Alarmed by the outcome has handed Iran a cheap victory objectives is the destruction of the al Saud rapid deterioration of conditions there, and and has strained Saudi relations with its key ruling family and the imposition of an faced with a virtual coup d'etat by the pro- Western partners, the US and the UK. In Islamic “caliphate” on Saudi territory. A Iranian Houthis, the US and the Saudis particular, frustration over the extended air valued partner of the US and leader of Saudi agreed that an international intervention in campaign in Yemen has trig gered Arabia's security services, Crown Prince Yemen would be justified to achieve four allegations that the Saudi effort was reckless, Mohammed bin Nayef, has personally been objectives: caused needless suffering among the the target of several assassination plots by restoring the legitimate government of Yemeni population, and inflicted high jihadist elements over the past several years. Yemen to complete the implementation of numbers of civilian casualties. This led the In response, Saudi security and the GCC Initiative and the conclusions of Obama Administration to withdraw critical intelligence forces have worked closely with the National Dialogue Conference; materiel, intelligence, and logistics support their US counterparts to defeat these < preventing a Houthi/Saleh takeover from the Saudis, undermining Saudi groups. Saudi intelligence services have of the government by force; confidence in the reliability of the US provided critical intelligence crucial to < securing the Saudi-Yemeni border; defense and security commitment. international efforts to eliminate the global and T h e p r o m i s e o f t h e T r u m p threat from al-Qaeda in the Arabian < defeating Iran's efforts to establish a Administration to reverse Obama's Peninsula (AQAP), and defeat its external foothold on the Arabian Peninsula restrictions on arms sales, as well as to plotting, including the so-called cassette threatening Saudi and Gulf security. restore intelligence and logistics support, tape plot in 2010 intended to bring down a Despite initial optimism that military has unsurprisingly been well-received in US commercial airliner. The Saudis have pressure on the Houthis and their ally, Riyadh and interpreted as a signal that the also played a role in the international former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, would core elements of the bilateral relationship coalition to defeat and destroy the Islamic quickly stabilize the situation and allow for a would be revitalized. One component of State in Syria and Iraq, flying air missions resumption of the political process, this has the proposed sale would be the precision against ISIL targets until the requirement to not been the case. Instead, over two years guided munitions that were withheld by the confront Iranian-supported Houthi into the conflict, the military effort is Obama Administration in late 2016 elements in Yemen over-stretched Saudi stalemated, the political process is frozen, following the mistaken targeting of a funeral capabilities. and the Saudis find themselves trapped in an in Sana'a that killed dozens of civilians. Iran's growing military support for the increasingly costly conflict with no clear exit Other components are largely defensive in Houthis in 2014, including threats to the strategy and suffering significant damage to nature. The sale of the Terminal High security of the Saudi-Yemeni border, their international standing and reputation. Altitude Air Defense system (THAAD) is highlighted the risks to Saudi and Gulf Beyond the cost in lives and treasure, the consistent with long-standing US encouragement of our friends in the region to improve their defense against Iran's ballistic missile program. Light combat aircraft will contribute to Saudi Arabia's ability to defend its land borders as littoral combat ships will enhance defense of the Saudi coast. But in moving forward on these sales, the Administration needs to proceed cautiously and avoid over-burdening the Saudis with expensive armaments at a time that the Saudi budget is already under stress from low oil revenues and rising economic and social requirements. An Evolving Relation I n w e l c o m i n g t h e T r u m p Administration's new course on defense cooperation, the Saudis are replicating a similar hopeful moment eight years earlier. The Saudis, like most of the Arab states, saw

Mélange 10 May 2018 Spot Light the arrival of the Obama Administration in 2009 as the antidote to their unhappiness over Bush Administration policies. In particular, frustration over the mismanaged US invasion and occupation of Iraq as well as aggressive statements promoting radical reform in the region by figures in or associated with the Bush Administration were a source of friction between the US and its friends and partners. President Obama's pledge to end the occupation of Iraq and reshape relations in the region were perceived positively. Disenchantment with the direction of US p o l i c y s o o n r e - e m e r g e d , h owe ve r. Washington's reaction to popular uprisings in Egypt and other states in the region disconcerted the Saudis and their Gulf partners. In particular, they perceived that Administration pressure on its long-standing overlook Donald Trump's aggressive anti- consensus on measures to address the two friend, Hosni Mubarak, to step down might Muslim and anti-Saudi comments on the core challenges of Iran and violent extremism. presage a similar reaction if popular campaign trail and welcome the arrival of his With further announcements of significant opposition should take hold in their countries. Administration as an opportunity to, once new economic initiatives, arms sales, and Dithering and delay in the Administration over again, repair the damage inflicted by his promised bilateral investments, the President's Syria policy, crystallized by the failure to follow predecessor and restore the close, historic initial stop in Saudi Arabia proved to be the through on President Obama's “red line” relationship. Their optimism was quickly highlight of a nine-day foray into international threat to respond to chemical weapons use, rewarded as the Administration pledged to political and economic engagement. reinforced Saudi concerns that US leadership renew support for the Saudi-led coalition in But subsequent developments have on issues critical to them had grown unsteady. Yemen, move ahead on arms sales delayed by reinforced that much of the progress that was Finally, US determination to reach an the Obama Administration, and embraced the advertised in the Riyadh visit remains very agreement with Iran on its nuclear program US-Saudi partnership confronting Iran. tenuous. Trump Administration claims that through the P5+1 process followed by efforts Successful visits by Secretary of Defense the Saudis had committed to hundreds of to expand the scope of US-Iranian Mattis and Secretary of State Tillerson to billions of dollars in new economic initiatives, engagement raised doubts in the minds of the Saudi Arabia and a return visit by Deputy including over $100 billion in arms sales, were Saudis that the Administration might be Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to greeted skeptically. Many of the alleged pursuing a broader rapprochement with Iran Washington cemented in place the elements of agreements may never be realized. Despite at their expense. a revitalized US-Saudi relationship. some indications that the Saudis were These policy issues were further The stage was set, then, for a successful prepared to take additional steps toward complicated by communications miscues. The visit to Saudi Arabia by President Trump. The normalization with Israel, the visit resulted Administration's interest in a “pivot to Asia” Saudis were prepared to respond positively to only in a reiteration of their traditional and promotion of US “energy independence” the three elements of cooperation sought by position that they would formalize ties with were interpreted by the Saudis and others as a the Trump Administration: cooperation on Tel Aviv only after it makes substantial signal of declining US commitment to its the fight against violent extremism, a united progress in resolving its central dispute with historic role preserving regional security. front challenging Iran, and the reiteration of the Palestinians. Obama's comments to the Atlantic magazine Saudi and broader Gulf willingness to respond Most damaging, however, has been a flare- advising that Saudi Arabia should learn to positively, at least, to progress on resolving the up in long-standing Saudi and Emirati hostility “share” the region with Iran and asserting that Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Moreover, the towards the Government of Qatar. The the challenges Saudi Arabia faced were largely Saudis organized a triumphal first engagement allegations that Qatar supports extremism and domestic and self-inflicted were viewed as an for the President abroad. Expanded meetings maintains friendly relations with Iran, which expression of Presidential contempt and with the leadership of the Gulf Cooperation may have been encouraged or even hostility. Council and the Arab and Islamic world precipitated by the Trump visit, threaten to The Saudis were therefore prepared to previewed a rising albeit still inchoate regional explode the new-found regional consensus and even to destroy the Gulf Cooperation Council, a critical regional force for stability. Essential US foreign policy and security interests are at risk if the intra-GCC dispute is not resolved quickly and peacefully. In sum, while the Trump Administration's approach to addressing regional issues has been warmly received by its Saudi partners, and they remain optimistic that the new Administration will restore the close ties that linked them to the US historically, the specific, operational elements of that renewed relationship remain nascent and blurry. It remains to be seen whether the dawning of this restored relationship proves as real as envisaged. Author is an Executive Editor of Mélange and Secretary Information Center of Pakistan and International Relations

Mélange 11 May 2018 Editor’s Choice Returning to Cold War Politics marching orders. In solidarity with the proximity to one of its submarine bases and British and Americans 29 states had expelled Boeing. On March 26, 2018, White House 150 Russian diplomats. Press Release stated: “The United States Washington expelled 60 Russian takes this action in conjunction with our Dr Zafar N Jaspal diplomats and closed the Moscow's NATO allies and partners around the world consulate in Seattle on the pretext of its in response to Russia's use of a military- grade chemical weapon on the soil of UK, the latest in its ongoing pattern of THE United States gradual fading of destabilizing activities around the world.” two-decades' sole super power stature is The United States Precisely, Americans are convinced that giving way to the blocks solidarity in the Russians are spying on their territory. global politics. Trump Administration takes this action in The Russians responded immediately. already declared Russian Federation a conjunction with our They expelled 60 American diplomats and strategic competitor and claimed that closed the US consulate in St Petersburg. Moscow is attempting to erode American NATO allies and This underscores that Russian Federation, security and prosperity in the twenty-first today, is not a declining regional power in its century. Recently, the US, Canada and other partners around the near and abroad. It is reforming and European nations expelled the Russian modernizing its armed forces. During the diplomats in solidarity with Britain. In a quid world in response to last decade, Russians demonstrated that pro quo Moscow ordered the Western Block their military might is more than capable of States' diplomats for leaving Russian Russia's use of a holding ground in their historic backyard, Federation. Diplomatic expulsions manifest military-grade chemical projecting power to other adjacent regions. both sides resolve to pursue their political Russians captured two Georgian and military objectives in transforming weapon on the soil of regions—Abkhazia and South Ossetia—in global politics. 2008 and also annexed Crimea in March Since the poising of a former Russian UK, the latest in its 2014 without any considerable resistance. spy and his daughter in Salisbury, United Since November 2015, the Russian fighter Kingdom, with Novichok, a military-grade ongoing pattern of j e t s ( S u - 5 7 ) h ave b e e n b o m b i n g nerve agent developed by the Soviet Union antigovernment rebels to bolster Syrian during the Cold War, diplomatic tension destabilizing activities government forces. Moscow's entry into the between the Russian Federation and around the world. conflict does not only alter the battleground Western block has gradually been realities in Syria, but also boosted Russia's increasing. The latter blames the former for image in the global military affairs. its interference in their internal affairs The North Atlantic Treaty through the covert operations. Organization (NATO) is facing a Consequently, scores of Russian and serious dilemma. Both Georgia and Western states diplomats were given Ukraine were its partner states.

Mélange 12 May 2018 Editor’s Choice

According to the NATO charter, it is not the responsibility of the Organization to defend militarily its partner nations. However, the NATO members cannot ignore the domino effect of the annexation of Crimea. Conversely, NATO's adequate contest, irrefutably, set off a hot war that escalates out of control in either Syria or in Ukraine. H en ce, th e NATO co un tries a re contemplating whether to capitulate or increase their defense spending to combat effectively their assertive peer competitor. The UN secretary general opined that the situation is identical to: “what we lived during the Cold War”. Whereas, many international relations experts seem confident that Cold War would not return. Michael Kofman, a senior research scientist at the CNA Corporation and a fellow at the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute opined that: “the Cold War was a competition Posture Review. It claimed the Review resulting from a bipolar system, where two lowers the bar for the use of nuclear The Cold War was a superpowers, both with economic and weapons. Nevertheless, Russians are “ military advantages, were competing to advancing their nuclear arsenal to counter competition resulting shape international politics. Their the Americans military might. On March 30, universalist ideologies made this 2018, Kremlin conducted the successful test from a bipolar system, competition inevitable, as did the of the intercontinental ballistic missile distribution of power at the time.” (ICBM) called RS-28 Sarmat, which NATO w h e r e t w o Admittedly, the causes and character of the has called 'Satan 2'. The Sarmat will replace superpowers, both current tussle between Moscow and the current aging Soviet-era ICBM called Western block are different, but the strategic Voyevoda. Precisely, the pace of the with economic and competition is identical. The Americans are modernization of Russian nuclear weapons, bent for the strategic containment of missile and anti-missile systems and military advantages, Russia. For instance, Moscow expressed conventional armaments confirms that were competing to serious concerns over the 2018 US Nuclear Moscow is determined to sustain the shape international p o l i t i c s . T h e i r universalist ideologies made this competition inevitable, as did the distribution of power at the time. strategic equilibrium with the United States. To conclude, ”the Western bloc's diplomatic reaction may only amplify tension between the Great Powers and intensify arms race between the Russia and US. It only maintains political unity in the Western bloc without militarily forcing Russia to stop or retire from global politics in general and Syria in particular and also capitulate Georgian provinces and Crimea in the near future.

The writer is Associate Professor, School of Politics and International Relations, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad & Member Advisory Board at ‘Mélange’ and COPAIR

Mélange 13 May 2018 Article Cyber Security and the Female Presence

Dr. Lubna Umar as a whole has been slow in tapping into the and include: pool of talent represented by women. Also, < Evolution in threats and threat vectors the information security discipline must such as advanced persistent threats, Cyber-security and information security transform in how it is practiced. Despite the distributed denial of service attacks, and is defined as any occupation that plans or overall growth in information security application-layer software compromises. carries out security measures to protect an professionals and corresponding increases in < Introduction and adoption of new organization's computer networks and expenditures on security technologies, the technologies such as cloud-delivered systems. These responsibilities are frequency and severity of data breaches, services, bring your own device (BYOD), continually expanding as the number of network compromises, and regulatory non- bring your own application, and big data and cyber-attacks increases. Cybercrime is compliance has become a boardroom analytics. recognised as one of the greatest threats to concern. The status quo is showing its < Formation of new business-to- businesses around the world, and with weaknesses. Women as agents of change in business (B2B) and business-to-consumer company and government data becoming transforming information security is what (B2C) relationships, driven by user device increasingly reliant on the internet, it is needs to be highlighted. multiplicity, mobility, the Internet of things, critical that their computer systems are and an intensifying competitive global protected from malicious attacks or data marketplace. breaches. As a result, there has been a huge The term 'cyber-security' < Scope, complexity and, in some cases, global increase in the investment and itself harkens back to the conflicting regulatory requirements. expansion of cyber security personnel. But T h i s n e e d f o r g a m e - ch a n g i n g supply is far from meeting demand. IT heavily, militaristic roots of approaches in information security is experts claim that the cyber security the field. Without a more corroborated by those most responsible (and candidate shortage is making them an easier accountable) for security and risk target for hackers. As well as a general need explicit tie between how management strategies—security executives. for a good talent pool, there is also a need for networks and systems feed Common is the perspective that internal more women within the industry. The security teams must change in two attributes: information security discipline is not into business operations, (1) skill set diversification, and (2) evolving fast enough. Most notable, women women may discard the field partnerships with organizations that have represent just 11% of this profession. Placed without truly understanding complementary capabilities, both inside and in the context of women in the general outside their own enterprises. But in order workforce and women in professional and what it is about or the for change of this nature to occur and managerial roles—where women are at near opportunity it presents. change with permanence, there must be parity with men in both of these agents of change—individuals that have the measurements in developed countries—this mindset and skill set essential to lead percentage is alarming. Furthermore, this The information security discipline must transformation. Where might these agents low percent of women in the information transform and also address its perpetual of change be found? These individuals exist security profession has been stagnant despite shor tag e in infor mation security but are in the minority in most security double-digit annual increases in this professionals. Past transformational organizations—they are women who have profession. In 2012 alone, the global approaches, while well-meaning, have only chosen the security profession. information security workforce grew by produced incremental and reactionary Businesses and government agencies 306,000 and by another 332,000 in 2013. Yet, outcomes and are not keeping pace with the have been slow to address the dearth of these increases have done little to address many exogenous factors that are driving female representation in cyber-security, persistent personnel shortages. demand for more security and risk despite the opportunities and benefits Essentially, more information security management, and security professionals. presented by increased representation. From professionals are needed, but the profession These pace-setting factors are well-known a product development perspective, the large

Mélange 14 May 2018 Article gap in women's representation raises concerns about the assembly of gender- diverse teams and the ability to innovate in the rapidly changing cyber landscape. Women's participation in an otherwise male- dominated group drives up the predictive power of a group's collective intelligence, due partly to women's higher scores of social sensitivity measures, which provide the necessary glue to connect all member's contributions. From the talent acquisition perspective, cyber-security professionals are deemed 'mission-critical' in government and highly sought after in the private sector. Cyber threats and attacks, especially in developed countries constitute huge financial vulnerabilities for businesses. Cyber attacks are also severe problems for government. There is a clear business case for investment field without truly understanding what it is where women are represented. Though in human capital in this industry, both in the about or the opportunity it presents. cyber-security is a relatively new field, efforts private and public sectors. Why then is it still Fortunately, research suggests that these to correct the challenges outlined above have significantly under represented in the cyber- social and cultural barriers can be diminished been incremental and the representation of security field? Academics and professionals or overcome by effective role models, women in this field as a whole has remained point to several reasons for this gender gap. mentorships, and scholarships. However, the static. Some commonly cited reasons for women's reality is that few organizations execute these The data stored in networks and hesitance to pursue the field include social programs well. For those that do, the protected by cyber-security professionals is and cultural factors related to gender. For programs have not achieved financially valuable and therefore vulnerable. Trusted example, gender stereotyping of roles as well sustainable scalability. institutions have all fallen prey to these large- as gadgets. This shifts girls' perspective of For many women, when a company does scale, damaging attacks. For much of the what is expected from them in terms of not offer policies such as parental leave or general public, these breaches and the academic and personal interests. For flex-time, it forces them into a trade-off associated damage control are faceless. example, the computer was heavily marketed between staying in the workforce and However, the largest risks lie not in the as a 'boy' toy for several years following its completing caregiving responsibilities. breaches seen to date. The current cyber- introduction to the market. Depending on workplace culture, employees security workforce's headcount is The term 'cyber-security' itself harkens may use these policies only to realize real or dangerously low. This renders the country back to the heavily, militaristic roots of the perceived penalties. As case studies of the unprepared to counter future threats and is field. Without a more explicit tie between medical and legal fields demonstrate, these exacerbated given the lack of depth and how networks and systems feed into problems are not unique to the cyber- diversity in a workforce that is almost business operations, women may discard the security field and are echoed in many sectors completely male. To limit the risks associated with the projected shortage of 1.5 million cyber-security professionals, the field must become more welcoming and appealing to women. There are huge benefits to a more inclusive cyber-security workforce. The business case for fixing this under representation is not only one of morality or diversity, but one of necessity. Dan Geer, a leader in the cyber-security industry, observes that cyber-security is different than other technology fields due to the presence of a 'sentient opponent'. This makes the conflict in cyber-security a talent-based competition, begging the question of why any organization would exclude 50% of the talent pool if beating a sentient opponent is the goal.

The author is the Editor of ‘Mélange’ and ‘ The Asian Telegraph’ & Research Associate Center of Pakistan & International Relations

Mélange 15 May 2018 Article Gathering Dark Clouds

Asif Haroon Raja

Muslims of East Bengal were the worst affected region during the British rule and had ardently yearned for Pakistan to free themselves from the cruel crutches of Hindu- British combine that had turned them into serfs. Birth of Pakistan was seen as a miracle of 20th century. Its survival under extreme odds was indeed a bigger miracle. Pundit Nehru had eyes on East Pakistan (EP) soon after the birth of Pakistan. Links were established with Bengali political leaders to sow seeds of misgivings in their minds. systematic slaughter and rape of West After 9/11, India got a real chance to carry India had a hand in the 1953 language issue Pakistanis and pro-Pakistan Bengalis and out yet another 1971 like surgical operation. which created bad blood between the people created a state within state. To stop his This time a new band of conspirators ganged of East and West Pakistan. Influential Hindu madness, Gen Yahya was impelled to launch a up with India to weaken Pakistan internally minority in East Pakistan particularly Hindu military operation, which led to province wide through sabotag e, subversion and intelligentsia, businessmen, teachers and civil war. propaganda, discredit, isolate and denuclearize professors were to play a key role in poisoning Isolated and outnumbered Pak forces it and then further fragment it into four parts. the minds of Bengalis. It took India 24 years to recaptured all the lost towns and restored Operation Blue Tulsi launched by the subvert the minds of Bengalis, who were in the order in record time of less than two months. adversaries in 1994 to disable Pakistan's vanguard of Pakistan movement, influence Indira Gandhi had however made up her mind nuclear program was given a fillip through war them to hate West Pakistan and to consider to dismember Pakistan and she not only on terror to bleed Pakistan. This was India as their friends. thwarted all reconciliatory attempts made by reinforced with fifth generation war to Illegal occupation of two-thirds Kashmir Pakistan, but tasked Gen Manekshaw to demonize Pakistan and its premier institutions. by Indian military became a bone of organize guerrilla war in EP and then wage a The conspirators used Afghanistan as the base contention between the two arch rivals. After war. 59 training camps were established for 2, of operation and started weaving a web India failed to defeat and destroy Pakistan 80,000 rebels. Indian soldiers dressed in civil around Pakistan in 2002 to destabilize it and armed forces in the 1965 Indo-Pak war and all clothes assisted them. economically weaken it through covert its ground and air attacks were grounded, it It took India nine months to create desired operations. In the last 15 years, their proxies decided to breakup Pakistan using indirect conditions to launch its military in November have inflicted 75,000 human casualties and strategy of initially weakening it from within 1971. Former Soviet Union that had signed caused an economic loss of $123 billion. The t h r o u g h s u b ve r s i o n a n d p o l i t i c a l Treaty of Friendship with India in August sold out media has helped in polarizing the destabilization and then using the military 1971 extended full support to India in this political parties, dividing the society, instrument. East Pakistan located 1000 miles venture. USA, Israel, Afghanistan and some demonising the incumbent government and away from West Pakistan with no ground Arab countries supported India, while China creating uncertainty. Their exterior manoeuvre linkage and surrounded by India from three was contained by Soviet forces. Since has isolated Pakistan and spoilt its image directions was chosen as a target and for the separation of EP was a pre-planned despite Pak militar y's outstanding achievement of its objective, Awami League international conspiracy, none came to the performance in the war on terror. leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was taken on rescue of Pakistan when it was being brutally 'Get Pakistan' operation assumed urgency board in 1963. His six-point plan was a route to vivisected. On December 16, 1971 the eastern after the inauguration of CPEC in 2015 which secession. limb was severed and Bangladesh created. has all the ingredients to make Pakistan socially The conspiracy to create Bangladesh was RAW started making inroads in Sindh and in integrated, politically stable, economically and stepped up by newly created RAW in 1968. It Baluchistan from 1973 onward by supporting militarily strong and self-reliant. The helped Mujib and his team of conspirators to Sindhu Desh movement and Baloch conspirators have now become desperate to create Mukti Bahini, intensify Bengali insurgency. It also maintained contacts with either scuttle CPEC or else dismember nationalism and sweep the 1970 elections. A ANP in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Saraikis in Pakistan. plane hijacking drama was engineered in Multan-Bahawalpur regions and Balwaristan The conspirators have thus far not been January 1971 and the incident was used as an movement in Gilgit-Baltistan. 5th columnists, able to achieve their sinister objectives despite excuse to sever east-west air flights to isolate nationalist politicians and disgruntled inflicting thousands of cuts on the body of EP. Pakistan had to use long circuitous air elements were also kept in the loop. Purpose Pakistan and its people. The bloody operation route via Colombo to reach Dacca. After was to stoke provincialism and induce the has not reached its logical end due to nuclear postponement of Constituent Assembly people of smaller province to rebel against deterrence and Herculean resistance put up by inaugural session at Dacca on 01 March 1971, Punjab. Baloch insurgency in 1970s was fully Pakistan armed forces, ISI, and the people. Mujib adopted an uncompromising defiant supported by RAW. Likewise, Al-Zulfiqar was India-US defence relations in recent years posture. He let the Mukti Bahini carry out also extended full support from 1980 till 1994. have moved along an upward trajectory. After

Mélange 16 May 2018 Article the US signed the civil nuclear deal signed in Financial Action Task Force (FATF) rules and 2008 and gave India access to Nuclear regulations on terrorism financing. The joint Suppliers Group, the two countries signed motion moved by USA and UK in the FATF Logistics Exchange Memorandum, Maritime meeting last March was thwarted by China, agreement and Strategic Communications Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Russia. Pakistan has agreement in 2015, which were China and gained a temporary reprieve for next three Pakistan specific. On December 8, 2016, USA months because of several steps it had taken to designated India as its major defence partner control money laundering in the last few with a view to expand bilateral defense months and its impressive results achieved in cooperation between both nations. This was controlling terrorism. Even Pakistan's closest announced by visiting US Defence Secretary friends like China and Gulf States were finding Ashton Carter in Delhi. The designation has make Pakistan dry is part of the overall scheme it difficult to defend Pakistan on the issue of placed India among the closest allies and to force Pakistan to bend to its dictates. Rivers terrorism as was evident in last FATF meeting partners of US. Sutlej, Beas and Ravi have been dried up, while where great majority of 37 members had voted Encouraged by USA, India has subjected water flow in Rivers Jhelum, Chenab and against Pakistan. Pakistan to multi-dimensional overt and covert Indus reduced. Suspension of military aid by the US wars as under: 8. India has now started persistently surprisingly did not come as a shock to 1. India's RAW in collusion with NDS and harassing Pakistan diplomatic staff and their Pakistan's civil and military leadership. On the CIA is involved in biggest ever proxy war families in New Delhi. contrary, US got a kick in the teeth when against Pakistan from the soil of Afghanistan. 9. India is an important player in the hybrid Pakistan reacted calmly, calling US a friend 2. India's 7,50,000 security forces having war launched against Pakistan to destabilise it who always betrays. The US was told that converted Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) politically, weaken its economy, foment Pakistan doesn't need US aid but wants its into an open prison are breaking all records of discontentment, and create cleavages in the sacrifices and achievements in war on terror to human rights violations and barbarities against society, unrest, uncertainty and chaos. be acknowledged. Pakistan has made it clear the Muslim Kashmiris. 10. In collaboration with USA, India is making that it hasn't spared any terror group and all 3. Operation 'All Out' has been launched in all out efforts to internationally isolate terror groups are now based in Afghanistan. IOK to systematically eliminate Kashmiri Pakistan, blacklist it and put it under sanctions. While Pakistan has flushed out all the youth. Hindu Pundits and retired armed forces 11. India is also systematically encircling terrorist groups in FATA and settled areas of persons are being settled in IOK to change the Pakistan by placing its military in IOK and KP, in Afghanistan there are 21 terrorist demography of Kashmir. Siachin, establishing itself in Afghanistan, groups and the latest addition is Daesh 4. India with the help of USA after tying the gaining operational control of Chabahar port (Khurasan chapter). Sanctuaries of Pakistan hands of Pakistan and restraining it to provide in Iran, gaining access to Duqm port in Gulf focussed TTP, Jamaat-e-Ahrar, Lashkar-e- arms to the freedom fighters, has been exerting of Oman and forging close ties with Arab Islam are well-known and communicated to pressure on Pakistan to stop extending Gulf States. Afghan government and Resolute Support political and moral support to Kashmiris and 12. India has hung the sword of Cold Start Group Commander. The US has not forget Kashmir. doctrine over the head of Pakistan and is eliminated any, or has helped Pakistan in 5. To hide its massive human rights hurling threats of surgical strikes and limited fencing the western border, or in extraditing violations in Kashmir, India constantly war. the Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan since accuses Pakistan of abetting terrorism in IOK. 13. India is goading and inciting USA to carry 1979 that have now become a security hazard. 6. Indian military has under a calculated out drone attacks in FATA, Baluchistan and Resolution of these three aspects will greatly design kept the Line of Control and Working also in urban centres against suspected resolve the issue of illegal cross border Boundary in Kashmir hot through almost daily hideouts of terrorists. movement and terrorism and will restore ceasefire violations inflicting casualties on Since August 2017, Pakistan has been in peace in Af-Pak region. Sadly! Peace in soldiers and civilians. Over 400 firing incidents the eye of storm in the US. President Trump Afghanistan go against the imperialist interests have taken place in last 3 months killing 18 and his administration have been on a rampage of USA or India. civilians. Indian Army Chief Gen Bipen has to punish Pakistan for the US own failures in They say “every dark cloud has a silver lining”. admitted that it's being done to maximize Afghanistan, constantly portraying it as a In its 70-year turbulent history, Pakistan has pressure on Pakistan. Another purpose behind security state harbouring extremists and been continuously subjected to conspiracies. constant firing across de-facto border is to terrorists. The US is hurling warnings and Ongoing conspiracy woven in 2001 is much hide its massive human rights violations in threats to Pakistan to dismantle alleged safe more dangerous than the 1971 international IOK and to distract attention away from its havens of Haqqani network and Afghan conspiracy. There is reason to believe that the illegal and brutal occupation of Kashmir. Taliban on its soil and to help the US in political imbroglio which is enfeebling the 7. Water terrorism unleashed by India to winning war in Afghanistan. No amount of economy is foreign abetted. Although this explanations has mellowed the anger of country is engulfed by a few hydra-headed Trump administration and it is hell-bent to problems and has been labeled as a failing penalise Pakistan for its uncommitted sins. state, its resilience has been a prominent The allegations made on the country are feature of these seven decades of existence. baseless and mischievous and at best, Prophets of doom had predicted that Pakistan questionable. The US has failed to provide will not exist beyond 2017. Therefore its proofs to substantiate their accusations. After survival amidst all the speculations is by far its putting Pakistan on notice and suspending $ biggest success. Undoubtedly, Pakistan will 900 million close support fund, the US then weather the storm and will come out stronger decided to put Pakistan in the grey list of than before. countries financing terrorist groups and then The writer is a retired Brig, war veteran, defence and pave the way to blacklist it. Pakistan was security analyst, author of five books, Vice accused by the US of non-compliance of Chairman Thinkers Forum Pakistan, Director Measac Research Centre. [email protected]

Mélange 17 May 2018 Article Emulating Contemporary Trends E-Women Project Encouraging Girl Towards Empowerment Through use of ICT allocated a special quota of 30% for women entrepreneurs in chain of National Incubation centers established at Islamabad and four provincial metro areas. These women entrepreneurs are making significant strides in Saima Zaman converting their ideas into commercial products. Many of these women-led startups have gained international attention like “Rising Mom” etc. By emulating the contemporary Over the past few years, there has been an living in the same area may have very different trends of development, women empowerment increasing emphasis on girls and information levels of access. and women entrepreneurship, Center of and communication technology in the In Pakistan where a little over 50% of Pakistan and International Relations development sector. Large government population is women, it is critical to have (COPAIR), has initiated E-Women project. donors, NGOs and the private sector believe women shape our country's future in The project tends to empower women with girls could play a big role in resolving poverty information and communication technologies. provision of trainings using ICT tools to and making development gains through ICT There are working women with backgrounds further engross the space for their skills which is indeed veracity as well. On in engineering in Pakistan but the male-to- (handicrafts, dress designing, pottery work International Girls in ICT Day on 27th of female ratio in this field is not at a desired level. etc.), which will bring an economic enablement April every year stress is given on the It impacts our nation socio-economically to for them. Mélange E-Mall is another platform phenomenon of encouraging the girls and have such a significant portion of our to reach out the far destinations in order to women around the world to drive global population not contributing to its exhibit your creativity and skills. What else attention to the need for their full and equal development. Numerous endeavors are in could be more encouraging for a woman than access to ICT education. The technology place around the whole ecosystem to sense of economic security, improved living sector is one of the fastest growing industries mainstream the women in technology to standards and of course a contemporary way globally, but experiencing skills gap. The harness their true potential for a growing and of generating livelihood. European Commission, for example, has prosperous Pakistan. That includes scaling up Gender discrimination also comes into predicted a skills gap of over 800.000 ICT jobs the ICTs for Girls program in schools, in Europe by 2020. The sector holds enormous play, and in places where men and boys opportunities for women with the requisite dominate women and girls, they also tend to skills. But stereotypes and discrimination dominate the available ICT. In places where continue to deprive girls of the chance to excel boys are more favoured, their confidence to try in this field. Globally, there is a 12 per cent new things will tend to be higher. Girls often gender gap in internet use; in the world's least report that boys monopolise ICT equipment developed countries, the gap widens to 31 and criticise, scorn and ridicule girls who are percent. Enhancing the use of ICTs to using equipment for the first time, making empower women is an explicit target of them feel too timid to try again. Getting more Sustainable Development Goal 5 which aims girls into school and improving the quality of to achieve gender equality and empower all education could help more girls' access and women and girls and calls for enhanced use of learn to use technology. Finding ways to enabling technology ICTs in particular to encourage critical thinking and innovation promote the empowerment of women. within the education system and ways for girls to join extra-curricular activities to stimulate The ICT sector has a transversal allocating 30% quota for young interns in IT new ways of thinking could also help them gain importance to every sector in an economy. Its Sector, and primed focus for girls and women skills for jobs in the ICT sector. To make it impressive growth in recent years and the in One Million Freelancers Digital Skills possible for girls to participate fully in their exponential expansion projected for the future program. All these endeavors are in place to family and communities and at broader levels will entail an increasing demand for highly- provide rightful employment and earning requires a shift in thinking: social behaviours qualified workers. Women, due to their small opportunities for girls and women through the and attitudes needs to be changed. Offer presence in ICT, could constitute an important use of technology. Information Technology specific support and opportunities. ICT offers pool of potential candidates to enter this Minister, Anushe Rehman, recently shed light incredible tools for engaging students in the sector. For many girls, access and use of ICT on a few women-centric programs conducted c l a s s r o o m , m a k i n g t e a ch i n g m o r e remains a hug e challeng e. Gender at the national level. participatory. It encourages student-led discrimination, lack of confidence, language “The ICT for Girls Programme, aimed at research and builds critical media and digital barrier, low literacy, lack of time and money, training young girls with the latest literacy skills in the process. Special care needs restricted mobility due to cultural factors or advancement in technologies, is functional”, to be taken to ensure that girls have equal safety often prevent girls from taking she said. Young girls from marginalized areas access to equipment. Where ICT cannot be advantage of ICT. Despite increased of Pakistan are being trained for coding and integrated into the classroom or where girls are availability of mobile phones and internet computing. Microsoft is assisting the not in school, it can be brought to them worldwide, access is often characterised in government for this training series. through non-formal education and extra- broad economic terms – 'developing' v Government is hopeful that the training curricular activities. 'developed' countries. Analysis rather should imparted will help these young girls in Writer is the Assistant Editor ‘Mélange’, include factors like class and wealth status, economic empowerment and job placements. ‘The Asian Telegraph’ & Project Coordinator gender, geographic location, age, disability, Besides the ICTs for Girls program as (COPAIR); a degree holder in literacy, language, and device ownership. Girls mentioned above, government of Pakistan has communication & media sciences.

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of China (PRC), the land-based Silk Road OBOR action plan. Economic Belt (SREB) and the ocean-going The effort has already made some NH Naqvi Maritime Silk Road (MSR). practical achievements. China has signed In 2013, China's president, Xi Jinping, bilateral cooperation agreements related to proposed establishing a modern equivalent, the project with Hungary, Mongolia, Russia, The 3,000-km CPEC is aimed at creating a network of railways, roads, Tajikistan, and Turkey. A number of connecting China and Pakistan with rail, pipelines, and utility grids that would link projects are under way, including a train road, pipelines and optical fiber cable China and Central Asia, West Asia, and parts connection between eastern China and Iran networks. It will connect Xinjiang province of South Asia. This initiative, One Belt and that may be expanded to Europe. There are with Gwadar port, providing China with One Road (OBOR), comprises more than also new rail links with Laos and Thailand access to the Arabian Sea. The project, when physical connections. It aims to create the and high-speed-rail projects in Indonesia. completed, would enable China to route its world's largest platform for economic China's Ningbo Shipping Exchange is oil supplies from the Middle East through cooperation, including policy coordination, collaborating with the Baltic Exchange on a pipelines to Xinjiang, cutting considerable trade and financing collaboration, and social container index of rates between China and distance for Chinese ships to travel to China. and cultural cooperation. Through open the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and This initiative, One Belt and One Road (OBOR), comprises more than physical connections. It aims to create the world's largest platform for economic cooperation, including policy coordination, trade and financing collaboration, and social and cultural cooperation. Through open discussion, OBOR can create benefits for everyone. It is a network of trade routes that linked discussion, OBOR can create benefits for Europe. More than 200 enterprises have China to Central Asia and the Arab world. everyone. signed cooperation agreements for projects The name came from one of China's most The State Council authorized an OBOR along OBOR's routes. important exports—silk. And the road itself action plan in 2015 with two main In 2014, China established the $40 influenced the development of the entire components: the Silk Road Economic Belt billion Silk Road Fund to finance these region for hundreds of years. and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road initiatives, and it has made investments in The Silk Road Economic Belt and the (exhibit). The Silk Road Economic Belt is several key projects. These projects are just 21st-century Maritime Silk Road, also envisioned as three routes connecting China the start as OBOR enters a new stage of known as the One Belt and One Road to Europe (via Central Asia), the Persian more detailed and comprehensive Initiative, (OBOR), The Belt and Road, Gulf, the Mediterranean (through West development. This work will see the (B&R) and The Belt and Road Initiative, Asia), and the Indian Ocean (via South development of six major economic (BRI, official translation) is a development Asia). The 21st Century Maritime Silk Road corridors, including the New Eurasian Land strateg y proposed by the Chinese is planned to create connections among B r i d g e, C h i n a – M o n g o l i a – Ru s s i a , government that focuses on connectivity regional waterways. More than 60 countries, China–Central Asia–Western Asia, Indo- and cooperation between Eurasian with a combined GDP of $21 trillion, have China Peninsula, China–Pakistan, and countries, primarily the People's Republic expressed interest in participating in the Bangladesh–China–India–Myanmar. These

Mélange 20 May 2018 Economy & Finance corridors will be the sites of energy and more savings than it can invest at home and construction, operation and management industrial clusters and will be created experience with big projects. The worry is of major infrastructure projects is costly. through the use of rail, roads, waterways, air, the plan will export the worst aspects of the The Indus River valley in Pakistan is pipelines, and information highways. By Chinese economy, while increasing the comparatively economically advanced, but both connecting and enhancing the strains on its already stressed financial with high population density and limited productivity of countries along the new Silk system. resource carrying capacity, while the western Road, China hopes the benefits of M o r e t h a n 7 0 c o u n t r i e s a n d area is poorly developed and troubled with cooperation can be shared and that the circle international organizations which have harsh natural conditions. - Restraints to of friendship will be strengthened and signed cooperation agreements with China economic growth prospects. Pakistan needs expanded. on OBOR, including the UN General to address major bottlenecks to economic China seeks to take the interests of all Assembly and the UN Security Council, and social development to sustain economic parties into account so as to generate mutual have incorporated it in their important g r ow t h m o m e n t u m . T h e e n e r g y, benefits, including environmental resolutions. Over 130 countries and more infrastr ucture, administration and management and closer cultural exchanges. than 70 international organizations sent g over nance deficiencies, besides We wish to give full play to the comparative representatives to attend the international unbalanced regional economic and social advantages of each country and promote cooperation summit - 'Belt and Road development, and external sector all-around practical cooperation. Forum', organized by China. This fully vulnerabilities need to be monitored to If President Donald Trump is opening a explains that the OBOR initiative is in line avoid any possible challenges to CPEC. void by withdrawing American leadership on global trade, President Xi Jinping is determined to fill it — and the world is taking notice of the shift. Nearly 30 heads of state, the chiefs of the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, the UN, and delegates from around the world converged on Beijing for a conference promoting China's Belt and Road initiative, its new Silk Road. The plan is a hugely ambitious one, to build roads, rails, ports, pipelines and other infrastructure joining China to Central Asia, Europe and Africa by land and sea. Spurs from the overland “belt” and the maritime “road” reach into Southeast Asia and towards the Indian Ocean. Some $900bn of investments, financed by a variety of Chinese or China-backed banks and credit funds, are projected. Visitors to the conference will have both hopes and fears. Rising western powers also deployed finance to develop markets for their products and expand political spheres of influence. Poor countries were happy to take the money — with mixed results for both with the trend of the times and conforms to This project is not a game-changer but a sides. There is more going on here, however, the rules of development and is in line with fate-changer for Pakistan and for the than the repetition of a colonial pattern in the interests of the people of all countries prosperity of three billion people of the the 21st century. China presents the Silk and has a broad and bright prospects for region. Essential for socio-economic Road not primarily as a development development. India skipped the Belt and benefit of the people of Pakistan and China. project, but as a stimulus for trade in a world Road Forum due to its concerns over the Functioning of the corridor will open struggling with middling economic growth CPEC, the geopolitical environment is new vista of development prosperity as a and stalling trade volumes. Lower trade inherently unstable in South Asia. World result of which the national economy will barriers and regulatory harmonization are, powers' adjustment of their policy towards grow fast, lead to creation of new job quite rightly, on the agenda alongside this region might add to the uncertainty. The opportunities, poverty reduction, and infrastructure. Many of the countries the mix of international, regional, national and development of transportation sector and initiative would affect need better extremist factors might cause disruptive boost industrial growth. infrastructure and deeper international activities, threatening the security of the Key cooperation area include transport trade relationships. There is the potential for CPEC building. The restraints of natural infrastructure is the basic and prerequisite it to do real good. Whether that potential is and geographical factors. Southern Xinjiang condition for the construction of the realized depends in large part on what of China suffers from a weak industrial base CPEC. It is an important field that can be China's objectives are, and whether it and limited economic scale. Because of the relied on to guide and drive the economic pursues them with discipline. The initiative special natural and geographical conditions and social development of regions along the plays to China's strengths. The country has in China-Pakistan border area, the C P E C , b e s i d e s p r o m o t i n g t h e

Mélange 21 May 2018 Economy & Finance interconnectivity and all-round cooperation between China and Pakistan for shared prosperity. Through the joint planning and development of highways, railways, ports, aviation and other infrastructure, a convenient, efficient and integrated transport corridor that includes a variety of modes of transport can be formed, mainly drawing from Monographic Study on Transport Planning, to achieve the transition from lagging behind to adaptation and then to moderate advancement in the transport infrastructure of the main nodes along the CPEC. In order to meet the needs of trade and personnel exchanges between China and Pakistan for the socio-economic development of regions along the CPEC, following initiatives have been planned to achieve the aforementioned objectives; Construction and development of Kashgar- Islamabad, Peshawar-Islamabad Karachi, Sukkur-Gwadar Port and Dera Ismail Khan-Quetta-Sohrab-Gwadar road infrastructure, to enhance road safety and construction of cross-border optical fiber promoting the construction of major service levels and expand traffic capacity; cables between China and Pakistan and the projects of thermal power, hydropower, Capacity expansion of existing railway lines construction of the backbone optical fiber coal gasification and renewable power (specifically ML-1 that is of strategic nature networks in Pakistan. Upgrading of generation, and supporting power under CPEC), and construction of new Pakistan's network facilities, including the transmission networks, in order to enhance projects and promoting the modernization national data center and the second its power transmission and supply reliability; of the railway and build an integrated submarine cable landing station. Expedite P r o m o t e t h e c o o p e r a t i o n i n t h e transport corridor; Construction and Pakistan to adopt China's Digital Terrestrial development of oil and gas resources, development of Gwadar city and port; Build Multimedia Broadcasting (DTMB) research on the integrated vision and a consolidation and distribution transport standard; Promote the ICT-enabled demand of China and Pakistan oil and gas cooperation so as to improve the cooperation between the two countries and This project is not a game-changer but a fate-changer diversify oil supplies. The opinions of for Pakistan and for the prosperity of three billion establishing oil refineries and storages along the CPEC route will also be considered; people of the region. Essential for socioeconomic Optimize the sourcing and use of coal, and benefit of the people of Pakistan and China. research on development and utilization of Pakistan's own coal for power plant and developing technologies for surface coal gasification, expansion and augmentation of coal mining sector; Actively promote system, continuously improve the development of Pakistan, including e- river planning and preparatory work of infrastructure of the port, accelerate the government, border electronic monitoring major projects to accelerate the hydropower construction of East Bay Expressway and and safe city construction; promote the development process; Develop wind and the new international airport and enhance development of ecommerce in Pakistan; solar energy based on local conditions, and the competitiveness of the Free Zone to Enhance the development of the establish diversified energy supply channels; promote the social progress and economic information industry in Pakistan; build IT Strengthen the construction of high development of the region. industrial parks and IT industry clusters in voltage-class power grids and power China and Pakistan should boost Pakistan to improve Pakistan's information transmission and distribution networks to information connectivity and promote technology and service outsourcing. fulfill the electricity demand and ensure the p r a g m a t i c c o o p e r a t i o n t h r o u g h Increase Pakistani personnel in exchange reliability of electricity supply in Pakistan. construction and operation of local programs in China, establish technical To develop the industry for manufacturing communication networks and broadcast & training centers in Pakistan, and strengthen of energy sector equipment required for TV networks; Besides strengthening the construction of ICT human resources in generation, transmission and distribution information and communication industries Pakistan. including renewable energy technologies. in both countries and synchronous China and Pakistan should strengthen construction of information, road and cooperation in the fields of oil and gas, railway infrastructure; Promote the electricity and power grids, and focus on The writer is working as Associate Editor with “Melange” & “The Asian Telegraph”

Mélange 22 May 2018 Economy & Finance Annual Investment Meeting 2018 Proved a Great Success 100 Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) at the AIM, where countries promoted their investment climate and ease in doing business to attract investment. The theme of the Annual Investment Meeting was 'Linking Developed and Emerging Markets through FDI: Partnerships for Inclusive Growth & Sustainable Development'. These government leaders and their IPAs appealed to the institutional and private investor groups to secure as much FDI as possible from a global pool of trillions of Melange Team dollars' worth of investment through a series of country presentations and investor match- While taking a look at the Annual making meetings. AIM was spread across Investment Meeting (AIM) we see how its 8,000 square meters of net exhibition space in gathering and event help in expanding which participants from 140 countries economic reach in terms of Foreign Direct promoted their investment projects, Investment. opportunities, services and attractions. Certainly, the eighth edition of the Annual Minister of Economy. While several ministers AIM included 3-day series of conferences Investment Meeting (AIM) at the Dubai and officials mainly from the UAE, India, with world-renowned speakers from private International Convention and Exhibition Oman, South Korea, Russia, Egypt, Italy and and public institutions including high-level Centre held from April 9-11, 2018 was an Jordan were also present at the meeting. officials from the UAE, Russia, China, outstanding investment conference with top- More than 20,000 investors, financial Georgia, Indonesia, Nigeria, Tatarstan, notch global experts, renowned academics and institutions, institutional investors, delegates, Portugal, and many more. experienced consultants to update AIM government officials and participants The conference focused on: Driving audiences with contemporary investment participated at a series of events – exhibition, sustainable development through FDI; conference, country presentations, investors' Investment in the Fourth Industrial hub, investment awards and capacity-building Revolution; how technology is changing the More than 20,000 investors, workshops to help attract investment in future of productivity and growth; Public- f i n a n c i a l i n s t i t u t i o n s, specific economic sectors. private partnerships for infrastructure A Head of State, Governments, more than projects, Sovereign Wealth and Private Equity institutional investors, 40 Government Ministers and State Ministers Funds and their role in investment, etc. deleg ates, g over nment joined a prestigious line-up of business leaders AIM hosted a full-day workshop series to officials and participants from 140 participating countries including t a ck l e E m e r g i n g t e ch n o l o g i e s a n d participated at a series of more than 50 Country Pavilions and more than opportunities for investment promotion e v e n t s – e x h i b i t i o n , c o n f e r e n c e , c o u n t r y presentations, investors' hub, investment awards and capacity-building workshops to help attract investment in specific economic sectors. trends in the domain of FDI. The initiative was taken by the Ministry of Economy and under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The eighth edition of the AIM 2018 was inaugurated by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai in the presence of Sultan Al Mansouri, UAE

Mélange 23 May 2018 Economy & Finance

agencies; How to develop successful city offered parallel sessions which focused on regional economies, the role of chambers of some sector-specific issues such as FDI in commerce in achieving SDGs and the role of agriculture, energy, infrastructure, finance and marketing and communications in investment innovation. promotion. The first workshop of 8th April, 2018 was Speakers from the most reputable private on emerging technologies and opportunities companies such as Mubadala, Lulu Group, and for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) in the Kanoo Group shared their knowledge on partnership with WAIPA. This workshop foreign direct investment. looked at how IPAs could contribute to create More than 1000+ high officials including 1 a sound investment climate for attracting and Head of State, more than 30 Ministers and witnessed high-ranking policy makers, promoting emerging technologies, and at the State Ministers, and more than 30 Head of business leaders, regional and international same time how these emerging technologies International Organizations, Government investors, successful entrepreneurs, leading could be used to further attract investment. Organizations, Sovereign Wealth Funds, academics and celebrated financial experts The second workshop in partnership with Chambers, Investment Promotion Agencies showcasing up-to-date information and GDP Global focused on enabling policies and networked with potential investors and strategies on attracting FDI. programs to create competitive city regions financial institutions to boost investment AIM 2018 arranged a full-day series of and programs that all city regions need to inflow into their countries to develop pre-conference capacity building workshops deliver on; hard, soft and digital infrastructure, industries, businesses and help create for the first time, aimed at all participants, environment, global trade, education, employment. Economic Department, Free Zones, entrepreneurship and innovation. AIM hosted large investors including Chambers, Private Funds, Investors, This was followed by the ICC workshop; Emaar, Etisalat, Al Majdouie Investment, Investment Promotion Agencies, Sovereign which explored how chambers of commerce Jumeirah Group, Dubai Investments, Loukil Wealth Fund and global experts. The capacity could undertake in fostering public-private Holding, Lulu Group, Sharjah Asset building workshops took place on 8th of April, dialogues, catalyzing new partnerships and Management, Mubadala Investment, and a day before AIM started in full-fledge. alliances, and exploring innovative business many more. There were six workshops in total covering solutions to accelerate sustainable New investment projects were launched several key topics with series of interactive development. for the first time through an array of activities presentations and discussions which were The interactive session brought together including Country Presentations, Exhibition, expedited by a faculty of international experts business leaders who shared best practices and Top Investment Organizations representing different countries and regions and covering multiple sectors met and explored potential business opportunities. This feature proved to be a real success as many significant meetings were held thus filling a real need for countries and prospective clients to meet and network with strategic partners to explore new business ventures. Investors' Hub, G2G, G2B, and B2B from International Chamber of Commerce discussed the pivotal role chambers of Networking Features, and AIM Startup (ICC), World Association of Investment commerce could play in reaching the SDGs. A I n n ova t i o n S h owc a s e a n d S t a r t u p Promotion Agencies (WAIPA), WAVTEQ, key feature of the workshop was an exchange Competition. Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute (SWFI), of views on how the private sector could work AIM hosted more than 40 Country GDP Global and Investment Consulting with governments to achieve inclusive, people- P a v i l i o n s a n d 1 8 C o u n t r y Associates (ICA). centered sustainable development. Presentations/Investment Destinations Investment promotion agencies were The fourth workshop was covered by the promoted investment opportunities in their trained to be proficient to promote president of the Sovereign Wealth Fund locations including UAE, China, Georgia, Italy, investment, run roadshows and make Institute, which broke into a specialized India, South Korea, Egypt, The Democratic intellectual investments. The informative discussion of how public asset owners of all Republic of Congo, Mali, Jordan, Botswana, approach of this assistance was combined with shapes and size - including sovereign funds, Cameroon, and Nigeria. a tactical review of operational requirements development banks, public pensions, and Power-packed with the international through practical case studies. superannuation funds - have been employed investment community, this exalted gathering Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) by governments in increasing numbers to

Mélange 24 May 2018 Economy & Finance address an array of fiscal and economic challenges in an ever-changing financial landscape. T he next workshop focused on maximizing the benefits of sustainable investment, in partnership with WAVTEQ. The workshop focused on how sustainable investment increases the benefits of FDI for a nation, what are the latest trends in sustainable investment and how can an organization attract sustainable investment. The sixth and last workshop, in partnership with Investment Consulting Associates addressed how companies make investment decisions and how investment promotion agencies influence the location were international organizations and some zones. The past three years saw some decision-making process through marketing were local organizations from UAE. discrepancy in the free zone export volume, and communications. Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) also which reached Dh221.3 billion in 2015, before In a span of three days, an array of highlighted free zones' role in attracting declining to Dh211.4 billion in 2016 but it activities staged included a Conference, Foreign Direct Investment worldwide. rebounded significantly last year in a way that Exhibition, Capacity Building Workshops, Let it be noted here that more than 3,500 reflects the boom witnessed on the non-oil Country Presentations, Investors' Hub, Gala Special Economic Zones or Free Trade Zones sector. Dinner, Investment Awards, various G2G, – also known as Free Zones – spread across The World Free Zones Organization G2B and B2B Networking Features, AIM 130 countries handled US$3.5 trillion worth of (World FZO) was launched in Dubai, UAE, in Start-up Innovation Showcase and Pitch exports annually, according to a latest report by May 2014, by its 14 founding members and Competition. Top focused sectors were the Organization for Economic Cooperation under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Agribusiness and Agriculture, Energy and and Development (OECD). With global Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Mining, Finance and Banking, Infrastructure exports reaching US$15.46 trillion, the share President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and and Logistics, IT and Telecommunications, of free zones has crossed 22.63 percent. Ruler of Dubai. Registered in Geneva and Manufacturing, Real Estate & Property, Of this, free zones or Export Processing headquartered in Dubai, the World FZO is the Tourism & Hospitality, and Trade & Industry. Zones in Asian countries handled US$2.4 only truly international, multi-lateral To p I n ve s t m e n t O r g a n i z a t i o n s trillion worth of trade – leading the free zone organization for free zones in the world today. representing different countries and regions output in the world while free zones in the Free zones are a major growth catalyst and and covering multiple sectors met and Middle East handled $552 billion worth of they not only a facility for import, export or explored potential business opportunities at exports. Free zones add US$500 billion worth trade, free zones are in fact economic growth AIM 2018. of trade-related value globally while 66 million enabler, job creator and attracts investment. Investors' Hub located in the Exhibition people are employed by companies registered That's why the Annual Investment Meeting hall was set up to provide participants with the within free zones, according to the report. also focuses on free zones as a tool to boost A free trade zone is an area geographically investment and private capital flow into the

opportunity to meet investors and financiers. within a country's boundaries, but designated developing economies as well as help their This feature proved to be a real success as outside of its customs area. In theory, a free economic growth accelerate. many significant meetings were held thus port allows manufacturing and value added Abu Dhabi Investment Office also took filling a real need for countries and prospective processing to take place on goods before part in the Annual Investment Forum (AIM) clients to meet and network with strategic customs are imposed. Global free zone 2018 in Dubai. China is also strengthening partners to explore new business ventures. movement started in 1959 in Ireland with the investment in the UAE through Annual The main objective was to create a safe and establishment of a free zone at the Shannon Investment Meeting. Two-way trade between secure platform for Investment Organizations Airport in Ireland and there are more than UAE and China crossed US$35 billion in the to meet with official Gover nment 3,500 free zones in operation today. first 9 months of 2017. China, the second representatives and trusted businessmen to The UAE has one of the highest numbers largest global economy and the UAE, the discuss investment opportunities and potential of free zones in the world that offers foreign second big g est Arab economy, are partnerships. Investors' Hub had participation investors 100 percent foreign ownership in strengthening bilateral economic relations to a from various organizations, some of which companies registered with any of these free new level.

Mélange 25 May 2018 Economy & Finance China Preparing to Lead Sarmad Ali Khan the New Energy World

In the past two decades, research and development in the green energy sector has technologically advanced to a great extent, yielding hundreds of promising new technologies that can lessen our reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas. The term green energy is often confused with fossil fuel. gy globally in 2017. It was also highlighted anies away from traditional reliance on coal Green energy is obtained from natural that China led the Global Trends in Energy and to re-organize incentives for the largest sources such as wind, rain, sunlight, tides, Investment of 2017. China considers Green coal and power companies. China Energy plants, algae and geothermal heat. These Energy dominating global power capacity Investment Corp., emerged after merger of energy resources are renewable; they are additions for at least the next two decades and China Guodian Corp. and Shenhua Group naturally replenished. In comparison, fossil is preparing to lead the new energy world. Corp., produced world's largest power fuels are limited; they take millions of years to The major boom in development and generator with an installed capacity of about develop and eventually continue to reduce expansion of China's Renewable Energy 225 gigawatts (GW). The company largely with use. Renewable resources are Sector came after Trump administration shifted to Green Energy instead of using coal environment friendly and easily available pulled out of the Paris climate agreement; a for the production. By the end of 2016, China anywhere as compared to fossil fuels which move that led to China's swift reassertion of had improved its solar PV capacity by nearly require drilling and mining of Earth for its emissions-reduction pledge that allowed it 800 times, with more than 77 GW presently extraction along with production of to further project itself globally as a installed. China also installed approximately pollutants such as greenhouse gases as a by- responsible major power while solving not 50 GW of solar-energy power-plant in 2017. product, contributing to climate change. only its domestic air pollution concerns but International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts China has remained and continues to also establishing world-leading capacity in that China will continue to lead the world in remain on top of the list of countries new energy markets.On the national level, in renewable energy development. In longing producing and using Green Energy. 2017, China re-structured its huge state- for maturing the culture of According to a report by Institute for Energy owned power generators in an attempt to Gre Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), m o v e C h i n e s e p o w e r China dominated the world in the building comp and financing of clean energy technolo

Mélange 26 May 2018 Economy & Finance

Milestones covered by China in Green Energy: Ÿ Chinese solar manufacturers account for about 60% of global solar cell production with the fact that China's solar manufacturing headship was cemented in 2017. Ÿ Renowned Chinese wind energy companies, including China- owned world's largest wind power developer, continued to expand globally. Ÿ Large Chinese hydro power firms continued to either procure or to en Energy, China shut down 40 percent of its 2030, only 20% of the country's primary win contracts to construct major factories for not abiding by emissions energy consumptions will arise from non- hydro projects. Latin America, regulations; considered as one of the boldest carbon sources. With such fast pace it is Africa and Asia continue to be step in international arena. predicted, by IEA, that China will install the zones of emphasis for Chinese China's Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) has equivalent of the total history of solar hydro companies. driven its energy investments internationally development in Germany by the end of 2018. Ÿ State Grid Corporation, the with the revival of ancient trading routes. The India, being a competitor of China in world's largest power utility, leads initiative has driven US$8 billion of solar almost all fields, is also gaining momentum in tenacious Chinese international equipment exports from China and abetted renewable energy sector to capture major investment in power grids. China to become the number one exporter of international markets and also sustain its environmental goods and ser vices, rapidly increasing economy. India has made International Energy Agency. Policy change surpassing the US and Germany. Chinese viable progress, like Europe, by building its in China has driven a surge in renewable overseas energy investments are following the interstate and international grid connectivity. generation, an obliteration of carbon dioxide global Green Energy trends; building China and India have remained competitive discharges and a nose-diving trend in coal capacity for manufacturing and using markets in diversified fields and are expected permitting and construction. renewable energy. The figures estimated by to compete in this sector as well. The foremost motivating factor for China IEA show a 165 GW growth of renewable It is important for China to pursue to significantly pursue research and energy capacity far greater than coal-fired emergent & renewable markets owing to its development in renewable energy sector is capacity that grew by 55 GW in 2016. Chinese huge size and ever-increasing energy the desire to ease the appalling air pollution total investment in clean-energy (aka Green demands. President Xi has also remained that kills a projected 1.1 million of its people Energy) projects represented more than $44 verbal on the Green Energy issue, calling for per annum. Every hour, China sets up one billion as of 2017. an “ecological civilization”. This claim is more wind turbine and installs ample solar Given that the IEA sees renewables propped up by Chinese development in panels to cover a soccer field, Greenpeace contributing 60 percent of global add-ons to 'green shift' i.e. transition to alternative estimates show. If we analyze this strategy electricity generation capacity over the next energies; becoming more energy efficient & reformation, it can be clearly seen that China five years, China's progress will enable it to self-sufficient. Heavy industrialization has is striving for becoming a renewable energy continue to build on its stature as the global deteriorated China's environment harshly manufacturing giant to not only increase its leader in renewable energy by looking for resulting in only 02 percent availability of air, economic development's pace but deliver opportunities to improve international to be breathed by people, that meets the clean environment to its citizen as well. standard EPC and functioning credentials. World Health Organization's air-quality Today's neoliberal world order calls for The most modest projections show that by standard on particulates, according to the sustainability that is not possible with meager resources and energy; China futuristic plans will espouse its economic manifestations in the long-run, especially the Belt & Road Initiative will astoundingly benefit from it. China also desires to become an energy exporter worldwide; to lead the energy sector, increase its revenue and meddle with the international economic order. Chinese strength's lies in its visionary economic policies and swift progress in the commerce industry. China is determined to lead the multi-polar world in all formats; be it social, military, economic or political.

The writer is Staff Reporter in Melange & The Asian Telegraph (COPAIR)

Mélange 27 May 2018 Economy & Finance Annual Spring Meeting of IMF and World Bank Brings a more Comprehensive Monetary Analysis Global Economic Prospects report that percent, which would be its fastest pace financial markets were complacent about since 2011, But the IMF's chief economist, risks posed by rising interest rates. Meetings Maurice Obstfeld, told reporters that this of the IMF's International Monetary and bright outlook could be derailed by a major Hadi Bandial

During the annual Spring Meetings, the joint World Bank-IMF Development Committee and the IMF's International Monetary and Financial Committee held meetings to discuss progress on the work of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. Also featured are seminars, regional briefings and press conferences, focused on the global economy, international development, and the world's financial markets. The Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, organized by The World Bank Group has taken place on 20th April to 22nd April 2018 in Washington, United States Of Financial Committee and the joint trade conflict. Despite expectations that America. The conference has covered areas Development Committee were also held growth will be robust in the near term, like global concern, including the world which discussed the progress on the work developing countries face challenges to keep economic outlook, poverty eradication, of the IMF and the World Bank Group. Few up the pace of progress and ensure e c o n o m i c d e ve l o p m e n t , a n d a i d seminars, regional briefings, press inclusive, sustainable growth amid effectiveness. Despite a tentative recovery conferences, and many other events focused structural changes to the global economy. from the crisis that has seen the Bank and on the global economy, international The World Bank Group is uniquely placed Fund predict a second straight year of global development, and the world's financial to address global challenges and help growth, global trends pose regionalised risks markets also remained the subject of countries achieve their goals in today's in the short-term, and the possibility of discussion. increasingly complex development medium-term risks to the global economy. The International Monetary Fund landscape. This was a key message from the The International Monetary Fund warned that the rising trade tensions between the United States and China risk undermining a global economy that the IMF believes should otherwise grow solidly this year. The lending agency has kept its forecast for worldwide growth this year at 3.9 percent, which would be its fastest pace since 2011.

In an interview taken in December last year, warned that the rising trade tensions Development Committee, a ministerial- IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde between the United States and China risk level forum of the World Bank Group and admitted that improvements in advanced undermining a global economy that the IMF the International Monetary Fund, in a economies, resulting in rising interest rates, believes should otherwise grow solidly this statement issued at the close of the “could very well” trigger a debt crisis in year. institutions' Spring Meetings in Washington. some Sub-Saharan African nations in 2018. The lending agency has kept its forecast The committee reiterated its support for Similarly, the Bank warned in its January for worldwide growth this year at 3.9 the Bank Group's twin goals of eliminating

Mélange 28 May 2018 Economy & Finance extreme poverty and boosting friendly, rebuild buffers where s h a r e d p r o s p e r i t y, w h i l e needed, avoid procyclicality, recognizing that the Bank Group create space to invest in must strengthen its financial infrastructure and workforce capacity to meet the aspirations skills, and ensure that public debt of its shareholders, mobilize as a share of GDP is on a capital at scale, and respond to sustainable path. global development challenges. I M F a l s o r e c a l l e d i t s The committee agreed to a capital commitment as a strong, quota- increase for the International based, and adequately resourced Bank for Reconstruction and IMF to preserve its role at the Development (IBRD) and the International approach development finance,” he said, center of the GFSN. They revealed that, Finance Corporation (IFC) as part of a adding that “IDA will be able to dramatically IMF is committed to conclude the 15th package of fundamental reforms that will scale up financing to help countries meet the General Review of Quotas and agreeing on allow the Bank Group to deliver 2030 development goals, and deliver greater a new quota formula as a basis for a development results more effectively while value to shareholders.” realignment of quota shares to result in becoming more financially sustainable and It was reaffirmed that the window of increased shares for dynamic economies in efficient. It will help the Bank Group opportunity remains open and should be line with their relative positions in the world continue to lead on global public goods and used expeditiously to advance policies and economy and hence likely in the share of scale up its support in fragile and conflict- reforms that sustain the current upswing, emerging market and developing countries affected situations. enhance resilience, and raise medium-term as a whole, while protecting the voice and World Bank Group President Jim Yong growth for the benefit of all. It will be representation of the poorest members. Kim, in his remarks at the press conference continued to use all policy tools to achieve IMF call on the Executive Board to work IMF is committed to conclude the 15th General Review of Quotas and agreeing on a new quota formula as a basis for a realignment of quota shares to result in increased shares for dynamic economies in line with their relative positions in the world economy and hence likely in the share of emerging market and developing countries as a whole, while protecting the voice and representation of the poorest members. that opened the Spring Meetings, also strong, sustainable, balanced, inclusive, and expeditiously toward the completion of the highlighted the financial strengthening of job-rich growth. In line with central bank 15th General Review of Quotas in line with IDA, the World Bank's fund for the poorest mandates and mindful of financial stability the above goals by the Spring Meetings of countries, through an inaugural bond issue risks, monetary accommodation should 2019 and no later than the Annual Meetings that raised $1.5 billion from investors continue where inflation remains weak and of 2019. IMF also noted the progress report around the world this week. “IDA's entry to be gradually withdrawn where inflation to the Board of Governors and showed its the global capital markets is historic – the looks set to return to central bank targets. concern to look forward for further latest transformational shift in how we Fiscal policy should be flexible and growth- progress by the time of next meeting. Enhancing cooperation toward reaching the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), debt transparency and sustainable financing practices by both debtors and creditors and addressing debt vulnerabilities in low-income countries (LICs) also were the core and evident points on the agenda. It was also revealed that countries dealing with the macroeconomic consequences of pandemics, cyber risks, climate change and natural disasters, energy scarcity, conflicts, mig ration, and refugee and other humanitarian crises will be highly supported.

Writer is the CEO of Mélange IT Solutions Marketing, an expert on Political Economy, the Director of Bandial Group, Director IT ‘Mélange’ Magazine and ‘The Asian Telegraph’

Mélange 29 May 2018 Economy & Finance Istanbul Welcomes International Entrepreneurs Group Entrepreneurship Congress in Istanbul, he Melange Team mentioned that the new airport in Istanbul and Turkey's first indigenous car projects Turkey's commercial capital Istanbul highlighted the country's strong sense of hosted a meeting of inter national entrepreneurship. "This airport was built by entrepreneurs between April 16 to 19. The five entrepreneurs who were encouraged by Global Entrepreneurship Network's (GEN) the Turkish government," he said. The annual congress was attended by nearly 400 airport, which is expected to open this year, speakers from around the world, including has the potential to welcome 90 million academics, politicians, businesspeople, and passengers annually. Following the second representatives of global organizations such phase of construction, expected to be as the World Bank and OECD. completed in 2023, this number will rise to Ali Sabanci, chairman of Pegasus Airlines, On the sidelines of the congress, whose 150-250 million, said Erdogan. said entrepreneurship raised economic and theme is “Building One Global Ecosystem,” The airport's auction was won by a social welfare. "But entrepreneurship cannot side events such as panels and workshops consortium of five contractors: Limak, Kolin, work without an ecosystem that includes the were also held. Experts discussed a host of Cengiz, Mapa and Kalyon. He touched on the public and private sectors," he added. Several topics such as the digital economy, startups, indigenous car project which will be produced countries and cities compete to become the agriculture, blockchain, transportation, and by another consortium -- Anadolu Group, center of entrepreneurship and Istanbul has women in business. "The GEN operates a BMC, Turkcell, Kiraca and Zorlu. "The spirit an opportunity to claim that distinction. platform of projects and programs in 170 of the entrepreneurship is not ordinary. We "Istanbul has access to a huge market and countries aimed at making it easier for anyone, will be able to produce our own planes like the people can reach the capitals of 59 countries anywhere to start and scale a business," indigenous car. Ideals come true with in 4 hours or less," he underlined. Further, in according to its officials. dreams!" he said. GEC (2018), A Pakistani startup named 'Her The congress started with an exclusive Turkish Economy Minister Nihat Ground', which was also part of the Startup Nations Ministerial followed by GEN Zeybekci stressed that financing can always be delegation representing Pakistan, won two Annual Meeting and about 200 different found but to find entrepreneurs was the true awards 1) Outstanding Women Entrepreneur sessions on topics related to innovation, challenge. "Economy is a game of which the Award 2) Third Place Finalist in GIST Tech-I startups, policy and entrepreneurship. rules are changing day by day, and we can competition during GIST Long Format The congress is hosted by the Economy move on the road with research and Pitching Session. Ministry, the Turkish Exporters Assembly, development, and design centers," he GEN in partnership with Startup entrepreneurship associations Endeavor stressed. He added that through Turkey's new Genome also launched Global Startup Turkey and Habitat. Previous congresses of project-based incentive, 23 projects from 19 Ecosystem Report (GSER) 2018 which the group were held in the U.S., U.A.E., China, firms were given 135 billion Turkish liras answers questions like: What technology sub- the U.K., Brazil, Russia, Italy, Colombia and ($32.6 billion). Zeybekci added that new sectors hold the most promise for economic South Africa. incentive-based organizations would be growth? How much local networking should Turkey would provide considerable created until the end of the year in order to startup founders do in their ecosystem? support to entrepreneurs as "huge targets" contribute to the reduction of Turkey's Which ecosystems are leading the way in needed "huge reforms", Turkish President current deficit. Fintech? Recep Tayyip Erdogan said while Speaking at "We invite entrepreneurs from all around On 3rd day of Global Entrepreneurship the opening ceremony of the Global the world to invest in Turkey," he said. Congress, GEN Compass Awards Ceremony and Dinner was organized in which GEN Affiliates were conferred awards in different categories. GEN awarded top honors to South Africa and Colombia, and recognized individuals and organizations from more than 42 countries for their outstanding effort and commitment to starting and scaling new ventures and supporting entrepreneurship in their countries. GEN Affiliates received awards in following categories: GEN Country of the Year (South Africa), GEW Campaign of the Year (Colombia), Brand + Digital Champions (South Africa), GEN Rookie of the Year (Uzbekistan), Champion Catalyzers – Most GEW Events (Algeria), Champion Catalyzers – Most GEW Events Per Capita (Bermuda), Champion Catalyzers – Most GEW Partners (United States), Champion Catalyzers – Most GEW Partners Per Capita (Ber muda), Most Promising Startup (Hippogriff AB, Sweden).

Mélange 30 May 2018 Economy & Finance Chinese Delegation of Shenzhen City visits ICCI to Explore JVs also help in further improving bilateral trade Melange Team and economic relations between the two countries. He also invited ICCI delegation to A Chinese delegation of Shenzhen City visit Shenzhen and explore new avenues of led by Jia Changsheng, Deputy Director mutual cooperation with Chinese General, Shenzhen Investment Promotion counterparts. Agency visited Islamabad Chamber of Sheikh Amir Waheed, President, Commerce & Industr y (ICCI) and Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & exchanged views with the local business Industry in his welcome address said that community on the possibilities of joint Pakistan offered great prospects for ventures and partnerships in areas of investment in hotel industry and Chinese ICCI to organize Business interest. investors should explore JVs for building five Opportunities Conference S p e a k i n g a t t h e o c c a s i o n , J i a star and 7-star hotels in Pakistan. He said 9 Changsheng, Deputy Director General, special economic zones would be set up in and Awards Ceremony in Shenzhen Investment Promotion Agency Pakistan under CPEC and Chinese investors Turkey said that Shenzhen was a business hub of should bring technology and machinery for The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & China and was making rapid economic setting up industrial units in these SEZs. Industry (ICCI) in collaboration with Emerging development with a GDP of US$ 350 billion. He said Pakistan offered g reat Pakistan, Ministry of Commerce and Pakistan Embassy in Turkey will organize “Emerging He said the companies of Shenzhen were investment opportunities in many sectors of Pakistan Business Opportunities Conference and Award Ceremony in Istanbul, Turkey on June 27-28, 2018. Both events would be held at CONRAD Hotels & Resorts in Istanbul. The conference would highlight the business opportunities in various sectors of Pakistan's economy to the Turkish participants and explore matchmakings between the private sectors of Pakistan and Turkey. About 300-350 businessmen from Pakistan would participate in the Business Opportunities Conference and would hold B2B meetings with Turkish counterparts. In his message, Sheikh Amir Waheed President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry said that Pakistan enjoyed close and cordial relations with Turkey and holding of conference and award ceremony in Istanbul would provide a good platform to the private sectors of both countries to interact and explore new avenues of business collaboration making hi-tech products and they were its economy including infrastructure with each other in areas of interest. They said interested in JVs with Pakistani counterparts. development, energy, exploration of oil, gas the real potential for economic cooperation He said after CPEC, many Chinese were & minerals, light engineering, IT & telecom, between Pakistan and Turkey has not been fully coming to Islamabad and there was a great logistics & transportation and stressed that tapped as yet despite similar economic structures of both countries and hoped that the need for more five-star hotels. He said that Chinese investors should explore JVs in business opportunities conference would be a Shenzhen's investors have good expertise in these areas in Pakistan to achieve lucrative right step towards transforming the bilateral this field and they were interested in building business results. He assured that ICCI would cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey into five-star hotels in Pakistan. He said fully cooperate in making right connections vibrant economic partnership. Shenzhen's investors were also keen to build of Chinese investors with Pakistani Muhammad Naveed Malik Senior Vice high rise buildings in Pakistan. counterparts. President and Nisar Mirza Vice President ICCI said that it was a good opportunity for the Jia Changsheng said that China was Muhammad Naveed Senior Vice private sector of Pakistan to take active part in developing Shenzhen as a global city and President and Nisar Mirza Vice President the said conference and explore the possibilities Pakistan could achieve good outcomes for its ICCI thanked Shenzhen delegation for of developing long-term business relations economy by developing close cooperation visiting ICCI and hoped that their current with Turkish counterparts. They said their with it. He said the purpose of Shenzhen visit would help in establishing good business participation would yield win-win results for delegation's visit was to explore prospects for partnerships between the private sectors of Pakistan and Turkey and would be helpful in realizing the vision of robust Pakistan-Turkey JVs and investment in Pakistan that would both countries. economic relations.

Mélange 31 May 2018 Economy & Finance Neelum-Jhelum Power Project A hub for Electricity Generation power house. The project will also help save huge amounts of money to the national kitty in foreign exchange on import of oil to the extent of hydel generation. It will reduce dependence on thermal power. During the construction, the project created 4,500 jobs besides leading to Leyla the socio-economic uplift of the area. The Neelum–Jhelum Dam is a 47 m (154 ft) high and 125 m (410 ft) long gravity dam. The Neelum–Jhelum Hydropower Plant is The tunnel passes 380 m (1,247 ft) below the a run of the river hydroelectric power project, Jhelum River and through its bend. At the which also indicated that the seismic hazard for with a cost of 404.32 billion rupees. The terminus of the tunnel, the water reaches the various parts of the Project is of different level. project is designed to divert water from the surge chamber which contains a 341 m (1,119 The updated seismic parameters adopted by Neelum River to a power station on the Jhelum ft) tall surge shaft (to prevent water hammer) project consultants are; FOR DAM SITE River. The power station is located in Azad and 820 m (2,690 ft) long surge tunnel. Opera-ting Basis Earthquake (OBE) 0.34 g Kashmir, 22 kilo meter south of Muzaffarabad In the mid of 2014 former Prime Minister peak ground acceleration Maximum Credible and will have an installed capacity of 969 Mega- Nawaz Sharif visited the construction site and Earth-quake (MCE) 1.16 g peak ground Watts. Construction on the project began in hoped to have at least one generator acceleration FOR POWERHOUSE SITE 2008; a Chinese consortium was awarded the operational by mid 2015, but despite hard Operating Basis Earthquake (OBE) 0.25 g peak construction contract in July 2007. Recently efforts it could not be done. The project was 66 ground acceleration Maximum Credible Earth- Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi percent completed as of August 2013 while at quake (MCE) 0.62 g peak ground acceleration inaugurated the first unit of Neelum-Jhelum the same time the diversion tunnel was 75 FOR UNDERGROUND WORKS Operating Hydroelectric Project and affirmed this project percent completed. In December 2014 a wall Basis Earthquake (OBE) 0.17 g peak ground as a symbol of Pakistan-China friendship. The near the diversion tunnel's intake collapsed, acceleration Martin Wieland (Member of Panel project is a Joint Venture of five International killing four workers including a Chinese of Experts) ensured that “for Neelum-Jhelum and National firms known as the Neelum engineer. In November 2016, the project Hydro-electric Project adequate estimates of Jhelum Consultants (NJC). The NJC comprise entered into terminal phase with 100 percent seismic design parameters have been made of US-based Montgomery Watson Harza perfect design while achieving 85.5 percent which ensure that the project fully complies (USA), Norwegian company NORPLAN progress. The major project features include with today's seismic safety standards for a International, National Engineering Services construction of concrete gravity 91 meters hydropower plant in a highly seismic region. He Pakistan (NESPAK), Associated Consulting high dam with a crest length of 320 meters near further stated that, the prediction of strong Engineers (ACE), Pakistan and National the village of Gohra. The dam's reservoir will earthquake, which would include time, Development Consultants Pakistan (NDC). be approximately 152 million cubic meters in magnitude and location, is still impossible and In addition to the construction of the volume, with a length of 27 kilometers. 72 hardly any progress has been achieved within hydro-power plant, an amount of Rs5, 237 homes and 58 businesses are expected to the last 40 years. Since it is not possible to million has been earmarked in 4th revised PC-I require relocation as a result of construction accurately predict the time, magnitude and of NJHEP for the environmental mitigation while 2.8 kilometers of the Karot-Kotli road, location of future earthquakes, but it has been measures in the project area. and 8.9 kilometers of the Azad Pattan-Kahuta ensured by experts that the revised design of NJHP (Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower road will need relocation. This project has project is based on the seismic parameters, Project) was initiated in 70s; however, after the started providing electricity on a trial basis. The which are as per world-wide standards, can long delays in initial approval of the project, the first unit is contributing 60 megawatts to the sustain high intensity seismic activity in the design was improved in 1989, increasing the national grid and will start generating electricity project area. The Neelum-Jhelum Project is tunnel length and generation capacity. The to its full capacity, 242 megawatts, in next two one of the major projects planned by the project was intended to begin in 2002 and be days. The project is being called an engineering government of Pakistan to enhance its completed in 2008 but this time-frame marvel with 90% of the plant being hydropower development to meet the growing experienced significant delays to rising costs underground in the high mountainous areas. energy needs of the country. and funding. Additionally, the 2005 Kashmir After the October 2005 earthquake, the Prime Minister Abbasi while inaugurating earthquake which devastated the region seismic design parameters adopted for the the project said, "Only 10 per cent work was required a redesign of the project to conform tender design of the Project were thoroughly done when former Prime Minister Nawaz to more stringent seismic standards. Being reviewed, and seismic design of the Project Sharif decided to complete it. If we have dubbed as new wonder of Pakistan, the power structures was appropriately revised to account succeeded it is due to his vision and efforts”. project comprises three components including for the following updated seismic parameters Chief of Water and Power Development a dam, waterway system involving Authority (Wapda), Muzammil Hussain, said 52 kilometers long tunnels that the NJHPP was conceived some three and an underground decades ago but the work was started only after it became evident that India was planning to build Kishanganga project. The Indus Water Treaty, painfully ratified in 1960 under the auspices of the World Bank, theoretically regulates water allocation between the countries and is considered a rare diplomatic success story amid a bitter history.

Writer is the Head of International Affairs Desk at Melange & Center of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR)

Mélange 32 May 2018 Economy & Finance Galloping Cryptocurrency Market Changes Course of gravity: “What goes up must come down.” Investors in bitcoin are learning this old truth. The price of the cryptocurrency peaked in December 2017 at somewhere over $19,000 Grate but started collapsing from the start of this year. Perhaps the best way of understanding bitcoin is through a model of how bubbles Asia's drive to adopt, embrace and expand operate. The classic model, developed by on the cryptocurrency revolution has attracted Hyman Minsky and elaborated by Charles innovative businesses and venture capital to the Kindleberger, a historian who studied bubbles, continent, as robust optimism paves the way has five stages: displacement, boom, euphoria, cryptocurrencies simultaneously on two for total market domination. As it stands now, financial distress and revulsion. The different platforms, but on a much larger scale. there are primarily two approaches to displacement is some technological That allows them to profit from smaller cryptocurrencies: a more hesitant approach development that can be used to justify a “new spreads. Some retail traders, including Li, have that can be seen by some countries, and a era” railways, canals, the internet or blockchain. turned to lesser-known cryptocurrencies such positive one, like that adopted by Japan and A boom then occurs and drags in more and as Tether, which bills itself as being pegged to South Korea. Indeed, these countries have more investors; at some stage, we reach the U.S. dollar. As China's restriction extended absorbed the market without much real euphoria, where the boom is widely known to from an underlying forbiddance on issuing new competition, but this period won't last forever. the public and there is talk about those who cryptographic money to a shutdown of trades, When China closed its local cryptocurrency made millions from the trade. In the euphoria premiums rose and merchants rapidly exchanges late last year, an underground stage, people buy because others are buying discovered better approaches for working ecosystem of bitcoin “mules” and peer-to-peer and because they anticipate being able to sell together. The arbitrage reserves work much platforms sprung up to allow bitcoin trading to quickly at a higher price. For a while, this trend like retail merchants, purchasing and offering thrive, away from regulators' watchful eyes, But is self-reinforcing. At some stage, however, cryptographic forms of money at the same in a matter of months, the premium for doubts set in; some people decide to take their time on two unique stages, however on a bitcoins in China has fallen to around 7 percent profits while they can. Once the price starts to substantially bigger scale. That enables them to or less as a flood of bitcoin mules, who fall, the psychology starts changing. People benefit from littler spreads. Despite the fact physically carry cash across borders for the who bought early and were counting their that that is an amount, it is far not as much as trades, has swamped the arbitrage business. millions suddenly see a dent in their wealth what distraught brokers made before the end Cryptocurrency funds and individual (and it is worth noting that you are not really of last year. This is not the first time that computer-assisted traders have also piled into rich unless you have got into the asset class and cryptocurrencies are responding in such a the market. out again). Other people may have bought manner especially after some resistive above the current price and are bitterly measures by governments. This time around, The boom has eaten away the spreads and regretting their mistake. Bargain hunters jump the popular narrative is that this market shown how fast the galloping cryptocurrency in and temporarily drive the price higher but it behaviour is as a result of the most recent markets can change course. “The market's kind doesn't last. regulatory pressure from China and South of taken a downturn; there is less general Korea. The president of Netcoins, Michael appetite in this space,” said John DeCleene, an Bitcoin arbitrage thrived last year as the Vogel said that this is borne out of the fact that assistant fund manager running the fintech and cryptocurrency grew more volatile and some these Asian countries have been among the cryptocurrency investments at Overseas governments stepped in with rules to curtail earliest adopters of cryptocurrency, and this is Chinese Investment Management. While the trading. The simplest geographical arbitrage often why negative news in Asia (or perceived West has a propaganda machine campaign involved buying bitcoin in unregulated markets negative news) can cause panic selling in other against cryptocurrencies currently, in the East such as Thailand, or ones that have legalised parts of the world. we might argue, they are years ahead. In the bitcoin trading such as Japan, and selling them west you can't use credit cards to acquire them in banned markets such as South Korea, China “We have seen this many times, however, it and even Facebook has outright banned all Ads or India. is important to remember the irony though; about them. Cryptocurrencies are based on A second form occurred between Bitcoin hit all-time high price months after modern cryptology technology rather than on exchanges, when nimble-footed traders China first proclaimed its reluctance to physical materials, like precious metals or paper bought cryptocurrencies cheaply on lesser- embrace Bitcoin”, says Vogel. Repeated events m o n e y. B i t c o i n a n d o t h e r e x i s t i n g known exchanges and sold them for a profit on have shown how significant the Asian cryptocurrencies are managed by a network of more liquid and widely used platforms. There community is to the blockchain industry. computers scattered around the world with no were huge price differences to exploit. In early Having led the way in the early adoption of the central authority unlike conventional fiat January, when the price of bitcoin was $17,600 technology, and natural factors such as currencies, which are controlled by central on Bitstamp, the Luxembourg-based digital population, which by extension influences the banks. The great Sir Isaac Newton may have currency exchange, it was being quoted at 25 market size have placed the region in a revolutionised our knowledge of the world but million won ($23,630) in South Korea, prominent position within the industry. For he still had his blind spots. He was sucked into implying a 34 percent “kimchi premium”. As how long this will continue remains to be the great mania of his day, the South Sea China's ban expanded from an initial known, but the power of Asia in the current Bubble and lost a lot of money. “I can calculate prohibition on issuing new cryptocurrency to a crypto industry can no longer be taken for the motion of heavenly bodies but not the shutdown of exchanges, premiums rose and granted. madness of people,” he ruefully reflected. In traders quickly found new ways of doing Writer is the Member of Foreign Desk at retrospect, he should have pondered the business. The arbitrage funds operate much Mélange for Europe & Coordinator Center of popular saying that was used to define his law like retail traders, buying and selling Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR)

Mélange 33 May 2018 Life Style Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump Most Popular & Celebrated Couple was wary at first of entering in a Melange Team relationship with Trump considering his reputation as a womanizer, Knavs fell in love with "a real man." Seven years The American President Donald J. later, they married. Today, she is the Trump and First Lady Melania Trump enjoy first lady of the United States. unequalled popularity world over. Their Trump met Melania at a party emergence upon the world scene has shaken during New York's Fashion Week in the fabric of international politics. Donald J. September 1998. He was 52; she was Trump is the very definition of the 28. After seeing Melania for the first American success story. Throughout his life time, Trump said he "went crazy." he has continually set the standards of He asked for her number, but she business and entrepreneurial excellence, especially with his interests in real estate, sports, and entertainment. Likewise, his entry into politics and public service resulted in the Presidential victory in, miraculously, his first ever run for office. The First Lady of the United States Melania Trump was born on April 26, 1970 in Slovenia. Melania Knavs began her modeling career at the age of sixteen. She asked for would pursue a degree at the University of his number instead. Ljubljana in Slovenia, but paused her studies Melania said she felt an to advance her modeling career in Milan and immediate connection. "It Paris before moving to New York in 1996. was great chemistry and energy. The two started dating soon after they At the time Melania Knavs came to New We had a great time," she said this during an met. Melania reportedly struggled with trust York little did the 26-year-old know, she interview in 2005. "We started to talk and issues in the beginning, according to one of would soon cross paths with the famous real something was there right away." her former roommates in New York. In estate mogul Donald Trump. Although she April 2004, after dating Melania on and off for more than five years, Trump proposed to her with a 15-karat, $1.5 million diamond ring. She said yes. After his first two marriages to Ivana Trump and Marla Maples, Trump apparently welcomed Melania's more low-maintenance demeanor. The two were content giving each other space. "I'm not a nagging wife," she has said. Trump later told the press that his years with Melania for some reasons have been his most successful. And that it has something to do with her personality. Finally, the wedding took place on January 22, 2005, in Palm Beach, Florida, at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea. By then, Melania was 34 and Trump was 58. A year laterin March 2006, Melania gave birth to a son, Barron William Trump. During an interview in 2005, Trump described his relationship as stress-free: "We literally have never had an argument. We just are very compatible. In another interview

Mélange 34 May 2018 Life Style with Stern in 2007, while complimenting his wife Tr ump said most parenting responsibilities fall on his wife. "Melania is a wonderful mother," he said. "She takes care of the baby and I pay all of the costs." As a model, Melania has appeared in high profile ad campaigns and worked with some of the top photographers in the fashion industry, including Patrick Demarchelier, Helmut Newton, Arthur Elgort, Ellen Von Unwerth, Peter Arnell, Antoine Verglas and Mario Testino. She has graced the covers of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, British GQ, Ocean Drive, Avenue, In Style, and New York Magazine. Her major layouts include the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Allure, Vogue, Self, Glamour, Vanity Fair, and Elle. In addition, Melania has appeared in numerous television commercials and television programs, including co-hosting The View with Barbara Walters. participate in the Fifth Annual National launched her 'Melania Timepieces & Jewelry' With a penchant and passion for the arts, Love Our Children Day and the beginning collection on QVC. She also had a caviar architecture, design, fashion and beauty, of National Child Abuse Prevention month skincare line 'Melania by Melania Trump,' Melania has thrived on the cultural by ringing the closing bell at NASDAQ. which never got off the ground due to diversification of New York City. This In 2010, Melania was the Chairwoman backend business troubles reportedly passion can only be surpassed by her for The American Heart Association which beyond her control, according to Racked. dedication to helping others, and her raised $1.7 Million for research. Melania's While Trump hasn't been too focused generosity has been noted. philanthropic interests represent her on business lately, she's still bringing in some She was Honorary Chairwoman for humanitarian side, and she remains an money. In February, an Associated Press Martha Graham Dance Company in April indefatigable and dedicated New Yorker. investigation found she was listed in New 2005, is an active member of the Police After Trump became the President, York Filings as the CEO of Melania Marks Melania and Barron did not immediately Athletic League which honored her with Accessories Member Corp, which is the move into the White House, but remained at Woman of The Year 2006, has been an holding company of Melania Marks Honorary Chairwoman for The Boy's Club Trump Tower until the end of the 2016–2017 school year. Melania and Barron Accessories LLC. Both companies are still of New York for five consecutive years, and active and brought in between $15,000 to in 2005 The American Red Cross awarded moved to the White House on June 11, 2017. $50,000 in royalties last year, according to her with Goodwill Ambassador which she Net Worth the Trumps' May 2016 financial disclosure has proudly served for four years. Following in her husband's footsteps, In April of 2008, she was asked by Love Tr u m p h a s s h i f t e d h e r f o c u s t o filing. An additional company, Melania LLC, Our Children USA and NASDAQ to entrepreneurial efforts. In 2010, she is also active, but it was reported as producing less than $200 and having a total value less than $1,000. In September 2016, zTrump filed a libel lawsuit against the Daily Mail after the newspaper published an article claiming she had previously worked as an escort. It was dismissed by a judge in February 2017, but she re-filed the $150 million lawsuit in New York, claiming the article ruined her “unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, as an extremely famous and well-known person,” to launch multiple product lines, including apparel, accessories, jewelry, cosmetics, hair care and fragrance. Other Projects In 2010, Melania Trump launched a jewelry line, as well as a skincare line. She has appeared in an Aflac commercial, co-hosted on The View, and appeared on her husband's NBC reality show, Celebrity Apprentice.

Mélange 35 May 2018 World Leader Donald J. Trump 45th President of the United States

Melange Team

“We will make America strong again. We will make America proud again. We will make America safe again. And we will Make America Great Again!" has been the slogan that the latest US President, Donald J. Trump has used throughout his presidential campaign and which probably won him the Presidential office. Donald J. Trump is the very definition of the American success story, setting the standards of excellence in his business endeavors, and now, for the United States of America. A graduate of the Wharton School of Finance, President Trump has always dreamed big and pushed the boundaries of what is ublican candidate. These voters, in delivering a fourteen bestsellers. His first book, The Art of possible his entire career, devoting his life to truly national victory and historic moment, the Deal, is considered a business classic. building business, jobs and the American rallied behind Mr. Trump's commitment to President Trump has had two previous Dream. This was brought to life by a movement rebuilding their country and disrupting the marriages, but is now married to Melania, a US he inspired in the people of America when he political status quo that had failed to deliver model of foreign decent for twelve years, and is announced his candidacy for President of the results. the father of a son, Barron. Mr. Trump also has United States in June 2015. Mr. Trump won, in part, because he four adult children, Donald Jr., Ivanka, Eric, and This movement would ultimately lead to campaigned in places Republicans have had Tiffany from his previous marriages, as well as one of the most unique Presidential campaigns difficulty winning—Flint, Michigan, charter nine grandchildren. in history. Ever the leader, Trump followed no schools in inner-city Cleveland, and Hispanic Presidency rule book and took his message, “Make America churches in Florida. He went there because he Almost immediately upon taking office, Great Again” directly to the people. wanted to bring his message of economic Trump began issuing a series of executive Campaigning in historically democratic states empowerment to all Americans. Millions of orders designed to fulfill some of his campaign and counties across the country, Trump was new Republicans trusted Mr. Trump with their promises and to project an image of swift, elected President in November 2016 in the vote because of his commitment to delivering decisive action. His first order, signed on his first largest electoral college landslide for a prosperity through a reformed tax code, an day as president, directed that all “unwarranted Republican in 28 years. Mr. Trump won more improved regulatory environment, and better economic and regulatory burdens” imposed by than 2,600 counties nationwide trade deals. President Trump's victory has the ACA should be minimized pending the , the most since brought Americans of all backgrounds “prompt repeal” of that law. Five days later he P r e s i d e n t together, and he is committed to delivering directed the secretary of the Department of R o n a l d results for the Nation every day he serves in Homeland Security to begin planning for the Re a g a n i n office. construction of a wall along the country's 1984. And he President Trump is working hard to southern border. An executive order on ethics received the implement his 'America First' platform, imposed a five-year ban on “lobbying activities” v o t e s o f continuing his promise to the American people by former executive branch employees but more than 62 to lower taxes, repeal and replace Obamacare, weakened or removed some lobbying m i l l i o n end stifling regulations, protect the US borders, restrictions imposed by the Obama A m e r i c a n s, keep jobs in the country, take care of the US administration. Moreover, what is more the most ever veterans, strengthen the US military and law promising is continued boom in the US stock f o r a enforcement, and renegotiate bad trade deals, market and unemployment dropping to the R e p creating a government of, by and for the people. lowest levels in more than a decade. He is making America First, again, Administrations typically tout their restoring the nation's faith, ushering in a achievements broadly at the end of each year, bright, new future now and for generations but Trump plans to list jobs added, regulations to come. killed, foreign policy victories won, and moves Mr. Trump followed in his father's to help veterans and even drug addicts. footsteps into the world of real estate And in a sign of support for conservatives, development, making his mark New York the White House also is highlighting City. There, the Trump name soon achievements for the pro-life community. became synonymous with the most Below are the 12 categories and 81 wins prestigious of addresses in Manhattan cited by the White House. and, subsequently, throughout the world. Trump's Books Mr. Trump is also an accomplished Trump coauthored a number of books on author. He has written more than entrepreneurship and his business career,

Mélange 36 May 2018 World Leader

defence of their interests. Stocks Rising Mr Trump claims the US economy is "surging" and while there are certainly signs it is healthy, much of that optimism can be traced back to the slow-burning policies of previous administrations. Under his watch, though, the stock market has hit an all-time high, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average exceeding 23,000 for the first time ever. A year ago, it stood at about 18,200. That confidence is attributed to the corporate world's greater trust in Trump, compared to the alternatives of Obama or Hillary Clinton. This upturn even seems to have confounded the Wall Street curse, that claims markets tend to peak in September or including Trump: The Art of the Deal (1987), While President Trump is incompetent at October of years ending in '7', before Trump: The Art of the Comeback (1997), Why countless aspects of his job, he is proving plummeting. "Black Monday" - the most We Want You to Be Rich (2006), Trump 101: wildly successful in one respect - naming disastrous single day in stock market history - The Way to Success (2006), and Trump Never youthful conservative nominees to the federal occurred on October 19, 1987. Give Up: How I Turned My Biggest Challenges bench in record-setting numbers. But dealing in a system that is even more into Success (2008). Environment vs Industry complex than it was 30 years ago, traders are Achievements of President Donald Mr Trump has taken considerable flack for still understandably nervous about the effects Trump undoing many of the environmental reforms of the inevitable downturn. "We don't know When Donald Trump swept to a shocking introduced by Mr Obama, most notably US when that day is going to be," Themis Trading victory in the US presidential election 365 days membership of the Paris Agreement on co-founder Joseph Saluzzi was found sharing ago, the world braced for what was to come climate control. Essentially, the Trump with MarketWatch.com. next. administration has questioned whether "It could be tomorrow or next year, or two Here are some achievements of President climate change is real and how much can be or three years from now… but when it Donald Trump blamed on humans. happens, it's going to be really, really ugly." The Wall Environmental Protection Agency Homeland Security One of Mr Trump's most spectacular administrator Scott Pruitt intends setting up Perhaps the greatest thing Mr Trump has election platforms was his determination to two teams - red and blue - to robustly debate given Americans is a sense that he won't back build a "big, beautiful wall" along the US- the issue from both sides, which seems down from anyone in the world. Mexico border to stop illegal immigrants. extremely pragmatic, but utterly pointless to He's talked tough on stamping out He was also adamant Mexico should pay those who consider the answer is obvious. terrorism using any means available and when for the construction and threatened to impose The EPA has already begun dismantling your constitution includes the right to bear a 20 percent tariff on Mexican goods to Mr Obama's Clean Power Plan, aimed at arms, that comes with a certain expectation achieve that. The 3201km-long border sees reducing greenhouse gas, and overturning a that they should not remain holstered when 350 million legal crossings each year, making it drilling ban in the Arctic and parts of the your home is under threat. Most world leaders the most frequently crossed in the world. Atlantic Ocean. "Just the number of prefer diplomacy and maybe Mr Trump's No work has begun on the wall yet, but environment rollbacks in this time frame is aggressive rhetoric is really a cover for more regardless, Trump's repeated warnings have a s t o u n d i n g , " H a r v a r d U n i v e r s i t y peaceful measures taking place behind the been heard and heeded south of the border. environmental law professor Richard Lazarus scenes. Or maybe his bluster is simply making Judicial Appointments told the New York Times. the US a bigger, juicier target for its many As Barack Obama left office, he Of course, these changes are great news enemies. nominated Merrick Garland to fill the vacancy for the industrial lobby, which has heavily But even as the president plays nuclear as Associate Justice in the US Supreme Court, influenced the EPA under Trump and Pruitt. chess with North Korea, he has claimed the highest court in the land. But with the "It amounts to a corporate takeover of the significant victories over some of his other election looming, the Senate refused to agency in its decision and policy-making rivals. In August, the State Department confirm the appointment and Garland's functions," said Robert Weissman, president reported that nearly a third of the territory nomination expired as Trump took office. of government watchdog group Public reclaimed from ISIS since 2014 has been won Instead, he promoted Neil Gorsuch to the Citizen. The Paris withdrawal in June was back since Trump took office. seat, perhaps the first and highest-profile largely symbolic, since the US cannot formally The Islamic State's occupation of Iraq and appointment of a radical shift in the judiciary. pull out until November 2019 and that will not Syria peaked in early 2015, but has more than Mr Trump will have the opportunity to make take effect for another year after that - the day halved since. Of the 70,000 square kilometers several High Court appointments and has after the next presidential election. seized back, mainly by local forces, 20,000 already begun filling lower courts with lifetime Also, treaty decisions are non-binding, square kilometers have come under Trump. appointees. which means the 140 ratifying countries - O n t h e h o m e f r o n t , t h e Ju s t i c e At 49, it was predicted that Mr Gorsuch including the United States - aren't obliged to Department has enjoyed success against the would be there for a long time. follow through on any of them. vicious El Salvador-influenced MS-13 gang, According to former Democrat aide Ron Mr Trump has promised to "begin with 17 members arrested for 12 murders in Klain, who served under Bill Clinton and Mr negotiations to re-enter either the Paris accord Long Island, New York. Obama, or a really entirely new transaction on terms Ironically, some claim Mr Trump's tough "A massive transformation is underway in that are fair to the United States, its business, immigration policies are actually scaring away how our fundamental rights are defined by the its workers, its people, its taxpayers". informants, who fear deportation if they come federal judiciary," Many Americans would applaud the forward.

Mélange 37 May 2018 International Perspective Pakistan Addresses Drug Menace through Wide-Ranging Policy Changes

Zahid Rabbani

Pakistan aims to be drug-free by 2020 under its 2010-2014 Drug Abuse Control Master Plan. Efforts have been made in this regard in both private and public sectors. Some charity-based organizations funded by UNODC, the Canadian International Development and Britain's Department for International Development etc. are running rehabilitation centers that have seen more success stories. Further more, the techniques they use for therapy are humane and ethically sound. Therefore, the message of hope is strong and positive. The drug epidemic began in Pakistan with the migration of Afghanis during the Afghan War in 1980s. Afghanistan is still the coordination. The ANF conducted joint functions like operational maintenance of manufacturer of 75% of the heroin in the counter-narcotics operations with foreign vehicles and equipment. Nearly 80 percent world. Thousands of Afghanis who crossed counterparts, including the United of the ANF budget is used to pay salaries. the border, also brought with them, their Kingdom, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the Moreover, the ANF's 3,100 employees drugs. United Arab Emirates. remain thinly deployed across some 40 Pakistan has always been willing to get Pakistan continued to host at least 32 stations and field offices spanning every tough on those involved in the drug trade. foreign Drug Liaison Officers as part of its province and administrative territory. Pakistan has addressed the problem through Paris Pact obligations. In addition to In 2013, the Ministry of Narcotics wide-ranging policy changes, HIV Control was merged with prevention campaigns, the Ministry of Interior and a support network for The ANF is conducting complex narcotics (MOI), placing the ANF those struggling with under the oversight of a d d i c t i o n . M a n y investigations with a small staff, while working within Pakistan's largest internal programs are active in the a judicial system where prosecutors and judges are security bureau. During country to help drug 2015, the ANF chaired a d d i c t s a n d c u r b overworked, underpaid, and often ill-prepared to the quarterly meetings of smuggling and availability successfully prosecute cases that involve modern the Inter-Agency Task of the dr ugs in the Force, which is composed country. investigative techniques. In order for the ANF to meet of 27 ag encies and Anti-Narcotics Force its mandate, the Government of Pakistan should intended to enhance (ANF) is the government c o o r d i n a t i o n a n d agency responsible for provide greater funding to the ANF and elements of communication on drug tackling drug smuggling the judicial system that try narcotics cases. control issues. and use within Pakistan. T h e A N F a l s o ANF is constitutionally partnered with DEA and mandated to serve as working with international drug liaison the UK's National Crime Pakistan's lead counter-narcotics entity. officers based in Pakistan, the ANF aspired Agency to operate Special Investigation Pakistan's attention to institutional to place officers in its embassies in Cells (SICs). In 2015, the ANF Academy development to deal with drug menace important drug destination countries. provided instruction to over 616 trainees brought good results. In 2015, Pakistan The ANF's 2015 federal budget needs to from across Pakistan's law enforcement participated in the Paris Pact and Triangular be made satisfactory enough to support its community. As part of UNODC's Initiative, two multilateral mechanisms daunting mission and strengthen its capacity Container Control Program, the ANF and promoting international counter-narcotics to adequately perform key sustainability Pakistan Customs operated nine Port

Mélange 38 May 2018 International Perspective

Control Units, while Pakistan Customs committed to a multitrack approach to interdiction programs improved between hosted regional training courses on risk counter-narcotics assistance in Pakistan. the U.S. government and the ANF. profiling of containerized cargo. The 1931 U.S. supply-side assistance builds Pakistani In 2015, Pakistan intensified efforts to Extradition Treaty between the United capacity to interdict contraband and raise public awareness about drug abuse. States and the United Kingdom, which dismantle crime rings. The United States The ANF lectured frequently at universities, applies to Pakistan, remains in force. helps Pakistani law enforcement entities colleges, and schools about drug awareness. Pakistan also took W i t h t h e a i d o f strong steps for reduction international donors, in supply. It's main opium The drug epidemic began in Pakistan with the including the United poppy growing areas S t a t e s , l o c a l n o n - r e m a i n i n K h y b e r migration of Afghanis during the Afghan War g o v e r n m e n t a l Pa k h t u n k h wa ( K P ) , organizations (NGOs) FATA, and northeastern in 1980s. Afghanistan is still the manufacturer c o n d u c t e d d r u g Balochistan. Insecurity in awareness activities, many t h e s e r e g i o n s h a s of 75% of the heroin in the world. of which were focused prevented the conduct of campaigns targeting reliable ground surveying, Thousands of Afghanis who crossed the teachers, parents, youth, hampering efforts to border, also brought with them, their drugs. a n d v u l n e r a b l e d e t e r m i n e p r e c i s e populations. cultivation levels. In 2015, T h e i n a u g u r a l the ANF reported 977 hectares (ha) of develop their capacity to conduct semi- Pakistan Drug Demand Reduction poppy and eradicated 605 ha, leaving a sophisticated operations, such as controlled Stakeholder Meeting occurred in April balance of 372 ha that were not eradicated. deliveries, financial crime investigations, and 2015, which represented the first effort of U.S. government estimates for 2015 intelligent container profiling. The United its kind to bring together the country's cultivation levels were not available at the States aims to help Pakistan cultivate a government and civil society to address time of this report. However, 2013 model for collaborative, intelligence-driven, substance use prevention and treatment in estimates indicated a significant increase in and corruption-free law enforcement by the country. Pakistani government and civil poppy cultivation, with over 4,000 ha in directing assistance through elite units such society representatives, alongside traditional growing areas like FATA and as SICs. The United States also promotes international organizations and the United Balochistan. A partial survey in 2014 initiatives that reduce demand, supporting States met to discuss the current demand showed sustained poppy cultivation levels in Pakistan's efforts to treat drug addiction and reduction system and planned how to the FATA and Balochistan. Alternative prevent its spread as a public health threat. strengthen drug treatment and prevention livelihood and development programs for Finally, the United States provides services, staff training, and research and farmers, including distribution of seeds, alternative means for farmers to grow licit evaluation. crops instead of poppy, including the agricultural training, and construction of Pakistan's focus on drug treatment distribution of seeds, the construction of “small-scheme” irrigation mechanisms, capacities produced fruitful results. Over small roads, and alternative livelihood have discouraged poppy cultivation in some the past few years, donor-funded “train-the- irrigation projects. communities of KP and the FATA. trainer” programs have increased the However, Pakistan depends heavily on Over the past five years, U.S. supply-side number of Pakistan's addiction centers that foreign assistance to implement and assistance has mainly funded poppy provide evidence-based treatment. monitor such programs. reduction programs and ANF interdiction Additionally, the United States has The United States remains strongly activities. In 2015, bilateral cooperation on supported the strengthening of civil society drug demand reduction programs by issuing grants to NGOs in the treatment and prevention fields. The ANF is conducting complex narcotics investigations with a small staff, while working within a judicial system where prosecutors and judges are overworked, underpaid, and often ill-prepared to successfully prosecute cases that involve modern investigative techniques. In order for the ANF to meet its mandate, the Government of Pakistan should provide greater funding to the ANF and elements of the judicial system that try narcotics cases.

The writer is working as Assistant Editor with ‘Melange’ Magazine, & ‘The Asian Telegraph’ & COPAIR.

Mélange 39 May 2018 International Perspective Building National Narrative on PEACE

Terrorism Authority (NACTA). and terrorism is a shared international The Minister hailed NACTA's efforts for responsibility. It is in this spirit of sharing holding such an important and prestigious responsibility that we have gathered national international event, which actually made its and international experts for this Forum for a Chaudhary Arslan name heard in the International Community. two-way sharing of lessons and experiences.” Earlier, Mr. Ihsan Ghani, National He added. Coordinator NACTA delivered his welcome Day-2 proceedings Government of Pakistan, organized address to the distinguished international and During the Day-2 proceedings of Pakistan's first ever three-day conference titled local guests. He apprised the honorable guests International Counter Terrorism Forum Islamabad International Counter Terrorism on what government of Pakistan entrusted the (IICTF-2018 .” National Security Advisor, Lt. Forum (IICTF-2018), envisaged on the theme responsibilities in NACTA to deliver in Gen (R) Nasir Khan Janjua, said while talking Pakistan's Endeavours and Achievements in countering extremism and terrorism. While to national and international audience Countering Extremism/Terrorism (PEACE). addressing the audience he asserted that, “We “Besides many sacrifices and contributions, The theme for 2018 symbolizes Pakistan's should keep it in mind that the remarkable but unfortunately we are still being accused of long struggle in bringing peace back to its turnaround in the fight against terrorism has supporting TTP and Haqqanis. people after facing a multitude of challenges come about through concerted efforts of Lt. Gen (R) Nasir Khan Janjua lauded on national and international fronts. every single segment of the state and society”. NACTA's initiative of highlighting Pakistan's The IICTF-2018 was held during April efforts in counter extremism and counter 3rd to 5th, 2018 at Islamabad. Experts from all The international community terrorism to the world through first of its kind across the world were invited to attend the have to understand that what IICTF-2018 platform. conference, including representatives from Pakistan is facing today is Mr. Afrasiab Khattak, a well-known senior China, Russia, France, Saudi Arabia, Norway, largely due to the failure of politician of Awami National Party (ANP) Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United international community to also addressed the participants during the States. Scholars, experts, policy makers and inaugural session of Day-2, titled; “Dynamics politicians from Pakistan also took part in the discharge their obligations in of Internal Security”. Mr. Khattak started his IICTF-2018; making it a two-way the region, so therefore in order speech by hailing NACTA, claiming “I think communication and learning experience for to fix the situation we need to NACTA has played a very important role scholars from within Pakistan, and beyond. work together not to point during the last few years not only for “The international community have to fingers, not to blame each other coordinating the effort of the state in the fight understand that what Pakistan is facing today but to find opportunities of against the terrorism but it has also is largely due to the failure of international contributed through mega consultative collaborations so that we can all process and came up with a National Narrative community to discharge their obligations in pool our resources to bring the region, so therefore in order to fix the and this international conference is yet situation we need to work together not to peace to this region that has another contribution by NACTA.” He added. point fingers, not to blame each other but to suffered for so long. IICTF-2018 enlightened the international find opportunities of collaborations so that we community what Pakistan have so far achieved can all pool our resources to bring peace to this Mr. Ghani urged the foreign delegates to in countering extremism and terrorism and region that has suffered for so long.” This was have an impartial assessment of Pakistan's what it had costed Pakistan. Today's said by the Federal Minister for Interior, fight against terrorism during their stay in prominent national and foreign speakers were Professor Ahsan Iqbal in his inaugural speech Pakistan for attending the three-day Dr. Anne Stenersan, Senior Researcher, at the occasion of Pakistan's first ever conference and carry stories of the courage of Norwegian Defense Research Establishment, International Counter Terrorism Forum this nation along with them. “There is no Mr. Clovis Baker, U.K. Counter Terrorism (IICTF-2018), organized by National Counter denying the fact that countering extremism Expert, Mr. Cesar Guedes, Country Head

Mélange 40 May 2018 International Perspective

UNODC, Mr. Ye Hailin, Chief editor of Nations Security Council Resolution calling and fair play, as envisioned by Qauid-e-Azam South Asia Studies, National Institute of for a plebiscite in the area. Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Referring to the International Strategy, Chines Academy of Noting that terrorism has now become a nation's fight against terrorism, Mr. Asif Social Sciences (NIIS, CASS), Beijing, Mr. global challenge, the Prime Minister took pride stressed on the need for a regional strategy to Wang Lin, Journalist and expert on CPEC, Dr. in the fact that Pakistan has been victorious in overcome the scourge of terrorism that is Waqar Masood, Former Secretary Finance, defeating a monster, where the rest of the impacting the south Asian region in particular Mr. Tariq Pervez, Ex- NC NACTA, Mr. world has failed. Cities like Karachi that were and the world at large. He called for Durrani, Former Chief Secretary, KPK, Mr. once declared as one of the most dangerous cooperation with neighbouring countries, Mubarak Zeb, DIG CTD, KPK and Ms. cities in the world, have recovered from the particularly in the field of countering Maryam Khan, EX-DG (Counter Violent catastrophe with courage and grace. Finally, terrorism to ensure long term peace and

Extremism) NACTA. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to development on a regional and global level. Day-3 Proceedings all the participants for their invaluable Ms. Sherry Rehman, Leader of the The IICTF-2018 was concluded with the contributions, and to NACTA for taking such Opposition, Senate of Pakistan, gave valuable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shahid a brave and essential initiative. insights on the need for inclusion of women in Khaqan Abbasi, as Chief Guest. He delved Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, the Interior Minister of all settings of society for a peaceful and into the issue of how terrorism invaded the Pakistan, who also graced the occasion, noted prosperous Pakistan; presenting the borders of Pakistan, recalling a time when that although Pakistan has suffered from remarkable notion that it's not just a few good Pakistan was safe from terrorists and the terrorism for a considerable time, it has also men that are needed to undo the effects of infiltration of drugs. He said that the Afghan fought against the same with great valour and terrorism, but a lot of women involved in the invasion brought major changes in the region, spirit. Remembering notable sacrifice of process as well. Mr. Shah Mehmood Qureshi, particularly impacting Pakistan. He then Aitzaz Ahsan Bangash, he paid a tribute to the Member National Assembly and former discussed the journey Pakistan has had in unsung heroes of Pakistan who laid their lives Foreign Minister of Pakistan, discussing overcoming said challenges that penetrated in the cause of countering terrorism and Pakistan's march towards stability, shed light Pakistan's borders in the decades that followed extremism. Referring to the National Action on the internal and external challenges faced the Afghan war. The Prime Minister further Plan, the National Internal Security Policy by Pakistan. Despite such challenges however, observed that no country wants peace in 2014-2018, and the National Counter he noted, Pakistan remains a resilient nation Afghanistan more than Pakistan, countering Extremism Policy Guidelines, he said that willing to fight back and reverse the effects left all claims to the contrary. Pakistan suffers the Pakistan has been engaging all factions of state by terrorism and extremism. most, he articulated, from instability in its in its devotion to countering terrorism and The National Coordinator NACTA, Mr. bordering regions. violent extremism. Looking forward, Mr. Iqbal Ihsan Ghani, who led this monumental effort On the issue of terrorism in the South noted that Pakistan is now looking towards for calling an international conference on the Asian region, the Prime Minister called special stabilizing its future, relying on economic momentous subject of counter terrorism, attention to terrorism permeating the Indian opportunities such as China-Pakistan thanked the participants and the speakers for occupied Kashmir. He called upon the Economic Corridor (CPEC), enabling honoring the occasion. He recalled some of the highlights of IICTF-2018 over the two days, observing that the discussions were holistic and had far-reaching implications. Albeit, he regretted, that each point could not be addressed in more detail due to constraints of time. Mr. Ghani further noted that the IICTF would be a recurring annual event with fresh themes allocated for each year, hoping that the process of learning, sharing and cooperating would only continue on a regional international community to accept the reality development not just in Pakistan, but in the and global level. prevailing in Indian occupied Kashmir, whole region. whereby 17 young innocent lives were claimed The Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Writer is Associate Editor of in cold blood last Sunday. Mr. Abbasi stressed Khawaja Asif discussed Pakistan's vision for a ‘Mélange’ & The Asian Telegraph; A Degree Holder that the Kashmir issue can only be resolved democratic Pakistan, remarking that Pakistan in Media & Communication Studies through the implementation of the United was built upon the values of democracy, justice

Mélange 41 May 2018 In Focus General Raheel Sharif Chief of the Islamic Military Alliance counter-terrorism capacity." brothers.” It would be interesting General Raheel Sharif is to analyze the efficacy of very popular and considered this alliance in true one of the most effective Amna Malik letter and spirit by and capable generals in looking at various Pakistan's history. He a s p e c t s o f i t s s e r v e d P a k i s t a n ' s The appointment of General Raheel formation. In his military scandal-free, did Sharif being the first commander of the 2016 visit there, not seek to extend his “Muslim Nato”, a fledgling military alliance G e n e r a l S h a r i f service, and retired in of Islamic states led by Saudi Arabia had led described Iran “as a 2016 after three years to a flood of criticism initially but later the v e r y i m p o r t a n t serving in his last position. things got settled and the debate ended. neighboring Muslim Through a massive ground Defence minister, Khawaja Asif, revealed country” and went on to say operation in North Waziristan that Sharif would become the first that “the people of Pakistan called Zarb-e-Azb that involved commander-in-chief of the Islamic Military have a great affinity with their Iranian 30,000 Pakistani soldiers, he cleared the Alliance to Fight Terrorism (IMAFT), a coalition of 41 countries with its headquarters in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. The Saudis have long asked Pakistan to contribute to its forces in Yemen, which so far Pakistan has refused to do. Last year Pakistan's parliament voted against sending Pakistani troops to Yemen. However the new Islamic alliance led by the Saudis and the appointment of Gen Sharif has altered the strategic picture. Defence ministers of the countries that are part of the Saudi-led Islamic military alliance have unveiled the coalition's broader mandate that envisages joint military operations against terrorism while suggesting a raft of other steps to deal with the menace. The final declaration suggested that it would be up to the member states to decide the extent of their region of various militant groups and participation in the coalition, something The Saudis have long asked networks. The operation abolished and that would provide enough room to reduced the presence of s terrorist networks Pakistan to maintain a delicate balance in its Pakistan to contribute to and boosted General Sharif's popularity. ties both with Saudi Arabia and Iran. While its forces in Yemen, which National Security Adviser Nasser Janjua has agreeing to be part of the coalition, Pakistan so far Pakistan has refused also revealed that Gen. Sharif, in his new had all along stated that it would not allow its r o l e , w i l l r e m o v e “ i n t e r n a l troops to participate in any military action to do. Last year Pakistan's misunderstandings among Muslim outside the country. Islamabad also insisted parliament voted against countries.” However, he could be widening that it would not become part of any sending Pakistani troops to those misunderstandings. initiative aimed at any other Islamic country. The two major alliances of post-World General (retired) Raheel Sharif has Yemen. However the new War II, including NATO and the Warsaw insisted that the Saudi-led coalition was not Islamic alliance led by the Pact, were created to provide security to two against any religion or state. While S a u d i s a n d t h e ideological worlds - communism and addressing at the first meeting of the Islamic capitalism. The members of these military counter-terrorism alliance in Riyadh general appointment of Gen alliances contributed in terms of resources Raheel said, “the alliance aims to "mobilise Sharif has altered the and ideological support. The alliances in and coordinate the use of resources, strategic picture. turn provided security to member states. facilitate the exchange of information and Besides enjoying historic ties, owing help member countries build their own largely to religious affinities, Pakistan has

Mélange 42 May 2018 In Focus

resolve to set this alliance, it's apparent that the kingdom is ready to address its financial necessities. Eventually, a formula to pool finances as well as military hardware will have to be worked out to make IMAFT more sustainable. General Raheel's previous command was at the helm of a fully functioning military machine. In Jeddah, he must be in a procedure to erect or evolve a force with limited time and resources, drawing soldiers from a variety of cultures, nationalities, and levels of professional experience. The North Thunder military exercise held in February 2016 offered a glimpse into the capabilities of the militaries of participant nations. More exercises like this must be carried out to strengthen IMAFT into an effective combat force. For the first time, Pakistan is about to fully utilize its tremendous geo-economic potential due to its geostrategic location as it is located at the crossroads of regions. Pakistan's economic strong economic and security relations with “North Thunder” with Arab and Muslim interests and future is tied to these Middle Eastern countries, as it provides nations participating with their land, air and aforementioned initiatives. The coalition them a consistent source of skilled naval forces. It is also declared as the largest was envisaged to serve as a platform for manpower. As of 2013-17, the official figure and most important military maneuver in security cooperation, including provision of of registered overseas workers in the Middle the history of the region. training, equipment and troops, and East - as indicated by the Ministry of Pakistan faces innumerable challenges involvement of religious scholars for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource from its regional neighbouring states. The dealing with extremism. slamic Military Development, Government of Pakistan, is strategic challenges faced by Pakistan need Alliance had given a clear message to the 54.80 per cent30 of the total number of re-evaluation and the Saudi proposed international community that the Muslims overseas Pakistanis across the globe. The Islamic Military Alliance may provide a were united against terrorism and would very important area of cooperation between chance to act as a balancer to the changing defeat this menace through continuous strategic realities in South Asia. Pakistan's objectives in joining this Alliance should not be perceived against any regional Muslim country, rather to seek broad-based strategic partnership with regional and trans-regional partners. The proposed Alliance is emerging as a unique opportunity for Pa k i s t a n t o l e a d t h e militaries of most of the Muslim world and to hold another theatre of operation Pakistan and Middle Eastern countries is in the Middle East supported by Muslim struggle. security. Pakistan has been providing countries. This opportunity, if appropriately The formation of this military alliance military training and military hardware utilised, may even help in stabilising was a strict and straightforward message to including arms, ammunition and equipment emerging strategic challenges in South Asia. extremists and terrorists that Islamic as well as supported military organisations General Raheel's role to lead IMAFT speaks countries would not tolerate any terrorist in these countries since the late 1960s. volumes about the difference that Pakistan's activity on their soils and General Raheel This military alliance is an effort towards participation is making in the coalition. sharif being the custodian of this alliance is attainment of self-sufficiency in security General Raheel has the requisite experience playing his role with utter sincerity. related matters, particularly in the wake of of fighting terrorist organizations like al- Author is the President, Center of Pakistan and increasing internal security related issues in Qaeda and the Taliban while they received International Relations (COPAIR) and the Arab world and to shed dependency on support from outside states. Given the Saudi military assistance. This Alliance is called Editor-in-Chief of ‘Mélange’ and ‘The Asian Telegraph’

Mélange 43 May 2018 Diplomatic Corner Pakistan and Turkmenistan Working Towards Common Interests

For mer Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif has attended the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan- Grate Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline groundbreaking ceremony on December 13, 2015 in South-Eastern Turkmenistan. The relations in terms of greater socio-economic recent visit of H.E. Gurbanguly Turkmenistan and Pakistan are two interaction and connectivity, business-to- B e r d i m u h a m e d o v, P r e s i d e n t o f brotherly Muslim countries with unique business coordination, exploration of Turkmenistan on the 13th Economic commonalities of historical and political potential opportunities for joint ventures Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit nature. Diplomatic relations between the has also boosted the bilateral relations two countries were registered in 1992. between the two countries. Pakistan was among the first few countries, TAPI is not just a gas During 26 years of bilateral relations which took prompt action for the t r a n s i t i n i t i a t ive both countries signed many inter- recognition of Turkmenistan as an governmental agreements to enhance inde pendent and sovereign state. connecting energy- cooperation in the fields of trade, energy, Turkmenistan since independence in 1991 agriculture & livestock, science & has enjoyed the dynamically developed rich Central Asia with technology, education, health, sports and bilateral relations with Pakistan, which have energy-starved South tourism, which will not only further cement been successfully developing with enormous Turkmen-Pakistan bilateral relations but will speed since then. At the present stage Asia, but a mega be a game changer for their economies too. Turkmen-Pak relations are characterised by However, economy is not the only aspect of mutual willingness to enhance mutually project of strategic Turkmen-Pak relations. Simultaneously the advantageous partnership. Both sides attach importance that will establishment of political, parliamentarian, great importance to the friendship between social and cultural links has been taking their people and the need to further open doors for greater place. During the recent visit of president of strengthen their cooperation in diverse Turkmenistan, Pakistan has underlined the fields. Ashgabat and Islamabad agree to regional economic significance of the Turkmenistan- enhance cooperation on international and Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas regional issues of common interest, and collaboration and pipeline project and expressed satisfaction continue coordination within international integration. with the foundation of the project that was and regional mechanisms such as the UN, laid in December 2015. Turkmenistan's NAM, G-77, ECO and OIC. Now Ashgabat and foreign direct investments (FDIs) regional connectivity is based on its concept and Islamabad express their resolve to work through rigorous commercial diplomacy. of “shared prosperity” and TAPI is its prime together for regional peace, development Moreover, establishing air, road and rail links example. TAPI will revolutionize the macro- and prosperity. Strong political will of both on a priority basis will certainly be a value economies of all the participating countries the countries will further foster the bilateral addition. and will be the start of a new era of regional

Mélange 44 May 2018 Diplomatic Corner cooperation, peace and harmony. TAPI is not just a gas transit initiative connecting energy-rich Central Asia with energy-starved South Asia, but a mega project of strategic importance that will open doors for greater regional economic collaboration and integration. Moreover, Pakistan will also import one thousand megawatts of electricity from Turkmenistan and the Memorandum of Understanding in this regard was signed. Moreover, TAPI gas pipeline will generate economic activity, create job opportunities and improve the living standards. It would also help counter- terrorism and enhance regional trade and development. Through China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)–TAPI and One Belt-One Road, bilateral relations of Turkmenistan and Pakistan will be further strengthened in terms of sustained socio- and investment. industrialization robust oil and gas sector economic integration, greater trade and Prospects are bright and opportunities and the last but not the least, oil-processing commerce ties and above having better are unlimited between the two countries chemical and petrochemical fields play very political understanding on different regional which have to be explored for accelerating impor tant role. Hug e mechanical as well as international issues of mutual inf lows of FDIs, joint ventures, engineering and metal-processing units are interest. Moreover, with the completion of establishment of free economic zone and producing building materials, light and food Turkmenistan Caspian Seaport it would be tangible taxation system. Direct air-link industry and contributing in the GDP of the connected with the strategic Gwadar would be a game changer. Preferably country. According to latest publication of Seaport which would further connect blue- Islamabad-Ashgabat-London sky route IMF (August, 2016), the growth rate of economies of both the countries in the days would be feasible answer to absence of any Turkmenistan's GDP was 6.7 percent. Its to come. The two countries also agreed to d i r e c t c o m m u n i c a t i o n l i n k s. I n income increased 100.6 per cent and enhance bilateral economic and trade Turkmenistan private sector is developed expenses enhanced 78.7 per cent. All the relations. Both sides realized that the volume and vibrant and hopefully gradual increase wages, pensions, welfare payments and of trade did not match the goodwill that of the share of private sector in GDP from students' stipends were financed timely and existed between the two countries. Both 40 percent in 2010 to 70 percent in 2030 and in full volume. Its budget is socially oriented countries agreed to take appropriate expansion of share of service delivery in where most of its allocations are used for the measures to enhance bilateral trade. The GDP from 29.7 percent in 2010 to 37 welfare of the people. Education, health leaders welcomed the initiative of the percent in 2030. Private sectors of both the care, clean drinking water and shelter Pakistan-Turkmenistan Business Forum on countries must avail this golden opportunity segments of the social development are the sidelines of the visit. Both sides agreed for further strengthening of bilateral preferred in every budget. These all that such sector based interactions between relations. Turkmenistan has knowledge base perspectives should be given importance businessmen of the two countries should be economy in which multifunctional while talking about the relationship of a regular feature to facilitate bilateral trade productive channels of production, massive Turkmenistan and Pakistan. Recently Turkmenistan and Pakistan have signed an interg overnmental agreement on abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports. The results of the recent negotiations in Islamabad were reported by Turkmenistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov. The agenda of the Turkmen-Pakistani political and economic consultations included the issues of interstate cooperation. Bilateral relations between Turkmenistan-Pakistan is now on the rollercoaster due to which prospects of greater socio-economic prosperity, energy cooperation, direct air-link and above all better political understanding are bright. TAPI would speed up and open many new avenues of mutual cooperation. Writer is the Member of Foreign Desk at Mélange for Europe & Coordinator Center of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR)

Mélange 45 May 2018 Diplomatic Corner Pakistan Remains Committed in Fight Against Malaria: PM Abbasi

governments has substantially increased and Iran and Afghanistan to effectively coordinate more than doubled in the last few years,” and collaborate malaria control efforts in the Prime Minister Abbasi termed the summit bordering areas of the three countries. “a timely initiative” and said despite challenges, “In addition, we have joined hands with the malaria control interventions in Pakistan Asia-Pacific countries through Asia Pacific Leyla were aligned with WHO Global Technical Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA) to re-affirm Strategy (GTS 2016-2030), adding, pursuing our commitment of malaria elimination from universal health coverage, malaria diagnostic the region. Let me assure you that we will Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and treatment services were being expanded to further enhance our efforts for complete attended a two days visit of London to attend rural and far flung areas to cater to the needs of elimination of Malaria both through increased the Commonwealth Heads of Government general population and marginalized resource allocation, in spite of many demands, Meeting (CHOGM 2018) from April 18-20, communities. and better coordination and management,” he 2018. The main theme of the meeting reads, He said expansion in diagnostic coverage maintained. 'Towards A Common Future'. At the airport, was mainly being done through the provision The Pakistani Prime Minister added that the Prime Minister was received by a Special of Rapid Diagnostic Test kits. Private sector Pakistan sincerely appreciated the existing Representative of the British Foreign Minister was also being engaged for free of charge cooperation with WHO and Malinda and Gates Mr. David Pearey and H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, malaria case management interventions, he Foundation and looked forward to deepening added. The Pakistani Prime Minister said the reduction of Malaria incidence was mainly attributed to the high impact interventions such as the use of Artemisinin based Combination Therapy and Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets ( L L I N s ) . P l a s m o d i u m V i v a x h a s proportionately increased to 85 percent, he added. The Prime Minister said since 2013, around 12 million free of charge LLINs had been distributed in highest endemic areas of Pakistan. The currently used Malaria Information System was being updated with a robust and Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, online DHIS-2 to have reliable information, he together with officials of the High and enhancing its engagement to augment its said, adding, “We are working to bolster existing capacity. Commission. existing infrastr ucture to strengthen The Prince of Wales, delivered the keynote The Pakistani Prime Minister while diagnostics and preventive areas.” speaking at the Malaria Summit held in London address, while Bill Gates also spoke on the He said Pakistan was among the high occasion. The summit was also addressed by alongside the 25th Commonwealth Heads of Malaria burden sharing countries in WHO- Government Meeting (CHOGM 2018) said leaders of various Commonwealth member Eastern Mediterranean Region, adding, Malaria states including Gambia, Ghana, Guyana, that, “We have started mobilizing domestic each year caused significant ailments, deaths resources and investing in the control and Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and economic losses. Uganda, Solomon Island, Papua New Guinea, elimination of all communicable disease. The The Prime Minister said that Pakistan had allocation for malaria control by the provincial Vanuatu, Tanzania and Zambia. established a cross border malaria network with Prime Minister Meets the Prince of Wales In his visit, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi met HRH Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, at Clarence House in London. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Ali Jahangir Siddiqui, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister and Syed Ibne Abbas, the Pakistani High Commissioner to UK. The Prime Minister felicitated the Prince of Wales on UK's successful holding of the CHOGM 2018. He hoped that the Commonwealth under the UK's Chair-in-Office would be revitalized and its role in the changing global geopolitical and economic scenario would improve. The Prime Minister highlighted the contributions made by the Pakistani diaspora in the economic prosperity of the UK and its role in bringing the two countries closer. He also appreciated the

Mélange 46 May 2018 Diplomatic Corner Government of Pakistan to Eliminate Preventable Blindness On the side lines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meetings in London, the Prime Minister held discussions with Peek Vision and CBM. Peek Vision is a world leader in using smartphone technology and training healthcare workforces in developing countries to eliminate preventable blindness and poor vision. CBM is an international non-governmental development organisation working in the field of disability globally for over 100 years with a major focus on eye care. Peek Vision was represented by their CEO and co-founder Dr Andrew Bastawrous and CBM was represented by their Director of Inclusive Eye Health Dr Babar Qureshi. The discussion centered around a major challenge for Pakistan, that of eliminating preventable blindness. It is estimated that there are more than 8 million citizens of Pakistan that are suffering from preventable visual loss. Peek Vision with CBM is prepared to deploy their partnership to deliver the most advanced solutions for the identification, diagnosis and treatment management for Pakistani citizens using Pakistan's existing health infrastructure and staff. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi invited Peek Vision to Pakistan and expressed the Governments clear commitment to eliminate preventable blindness in Pakistan. He committed the full support of the Government for a national program in this regard. Peek Vision and CBM agreed to follow up and work with the Government to reach this noble goal. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Mr. Ali Jehangir Siddiqui and Pakistan High Commissioner to UK Syed Ibne Abbas were also present during the meeting. UK's assistance in health and education economic reforms. by its development agency in Pakistan. He also sectors in Pakistan. He invited Prince Charles Prime Minister meets UK PM Theresa appreciated the appointment of a trade envoy to visit Pakistan at his convenience. HRH May by the UK government to help explore trade Prince Charles thanked Pakistan for its high- Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and investment opportunities between the two level participation in the CHOGM 2018. He met UK Prime Minister Theresa May, on the countries, especially in the post Brexit context. also commended Pakistan's valuable sidelines of the Commonwealth leaders retreat at Windsor Castle, London. The two leaders discussed matters of bilateral interest. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi congratulated PM Theresa May on a very efficient steering of the C o m m o n w e a l t h H e a d s o f Government meeting. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi highlighted the plight of the Kashmiri people and urged the international community to respond to the current human rights situation in IOK. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi informed PM May of Pakistan's efforts in fighting terrorism and extremism. He also underscored contribution to the Commonwealth. The the importance of strengthening bilateral He also spoke of his visit to Kabul and Prince of Wales appreciated the political relations especially in the context of trade and underscored Pakistan's commitment to peace leadership of Pakistan in ensuring good investment and thanked UK for the work done governance and efforts in implementing and stability in Afghanistan. Prime Minister May appreciated Pakistan's efforts in fighting terrorism and in this context recalled Prime Delegation of Royal Dutch Shell Calls on Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's reference to more than 100,000 Pakistanis affected in our Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi fight against terrorism over the past 10 years. A Delegation of Royal Dutch Shell led by Mr. Ben Van Beurden, Chief Executive Officer, She appreciated Prime Minister Shahid Royal Dutch Shell called on Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in London and discussed Khaqan Abbasi's efforts in reaching out to further investment interest in Pakistan. The meeting was extremely cordial where Shell's interests Afghanistan especially during his recent visit in Pakistan were discussed. The development of Pakistan's energy sector and in particular the to Kabul. She added that Pakistan-UK development of Pakistan's natural gas and LNG was acknowledged by the CEO of Shell. Chief relations are strong. She underscored the Executive, Royal Dutch Shell informed the Prime Minister about Shell's interest in the LNG & importance of enhancing trade between the Renewable energy sectors of Pakistan as well as two countries. In response to PM May's investments in the more traditional fuels reference to the recent alleged use of chemical marketing landscape. The Prime Minister was weapons, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan appreciative of Shell's role in the downstream Abbasi recalled Pakistan's principled position sector of the country and said he was looking of condemning any use of chemical weapons forward to Shell's investment in LNG & and upholding the principles of the UN renewables. Mr. Ali Jehangir Siddiqui, Special Charter. Assistant to the Prime Minister and Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK Writer is the Head of International Affairs Desk at Melange & Center of Pakistan and International were also present during the meeting. Relations (COPAIR)

Mélange 47 May 2018 Diplomatic Corner BOAO Forum for Asia Pakistan & China – The Iron Brothers be serving as the economic nucleus of the overland access to Western China, Central globe. He elaborated that, “at the southern and South Asia and the Middle East”, tip of this Corridor, development of the The One Belt – One Road initiative was deep seaport of Gwadar is proceeding at a thoroughly appreciated by PM Abbasi. In Hadi Bandial fast track. On completion, it will not only his speech, PM also expressed utter serve as a transit and transshipment hub, but satisfaction on the mutual collaboration of become an economic nucleus. Besides China & Pakistan on diverse fields from Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Pakistan, it will afford shortest maritime and which both countries are benefitting. This

while on a three day visit to China along with cooperation has boosted up the economy of Foreign Minister Khawaja M. Asif was The One Belt – One Road Pakistan to highest point in the decade, received warmly by Mr. Yan Zhaojun, reaching up to 6% annually. PM Abbasi Member of the Standing Committee initiative was thoroughly stressed on coordinated and tailored CPPCC of Sanya. During his visit, PM appreciated by PM Abbasi. approaches to achieve common vested Shahid Khaqan Abbasi attended the BOAO In his speech, PM also interests along with improvement of human Forum for Asia. The BOAO conference, capital. also referred to as 'Asia's Davos', was held in expressed utter satisfaction PM Abbasi also talked about the security China's Southern Island province, Hainan, on the mutual collabora- concerns in the region, voicing that from April 8 – 11 during which top leaders tion of China & Pakistan d e v e l o p m e n t & s e c u r i t y r e m a i n from China, Pakistan, Philippines, “intrinsically indivisible”. He also spoke Singapore, Mongolia, Austria and many on diverse fields from about the Pakistan-China-Afghanistan other countries took part. which both countries are trilateral framework which aimed at While addressing the BOAO Forum, b e n e f i t t i n g . T h i s achieving objectives such as open trade, PM Abbasi termed Pakistan and China as shared innovation, promotion of tolerance 'Iron Brothers' and added that Sino-Pak cooperation has boosted and denial of space to extremism of any friendship is the bedrock of strategic up the economy of kind. stability for Asia. PM Abbasi, also, admired Pakistan to highest point in Chinese President, Xi Jinping, with a Chinese efforts for the economic uplift of colossal announcement opened up the Asia and the world at large. While speaking the decade, reaching up to markets of China for foreign car companies about CPEC, PM said that soon Gwadar will 6% annually. and reduced the tariffs on imported autos

Mélange 48 May 2018 Diplomatic Corner along with other products, as well. The global automobile industry was welcomed PM Abbasi meets with UN Secretary General, by China in BOAO Forum, especially the American automobile companies as the Mr. Antonio Guterres. previous 25% tariff would now be reduced. On the sidelines of BOAO Forum for Asia, the United Nations Secretary General met President Xi emphasized on trade Prime Minister of Pakistan. PM Abbasi shared his view with the UN Secretary General, without barriers and restrictions, he hoped Mr. Antonio Guterres on the deteriorating situation in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IoK) that, "developed countries will stop imposing restrictions on normal and reasonable trade of high-tech products and relax export controls on such trade with China". He termed open systems/markets as the best course of action for the world. He also spoke about trade liberalization, investment facilitation and promotion of multilateral trade systems. When speaking about the OBOR initiative, President Xi, said that this project is for every country that wishes to join hand in mutual cooperation and economic growth. He nullified the perception of using OBOR initiative for achieving geopolitical clout by saying, “China has no geopolitical calculations, seeks no exclusionary blocs and imposes no business deals on others”. President Xi clearly mentioned that China and the lethal killing spree of thousands of innocent Kashmiris. The PM also pointed out does not believes in changing the world the use of pellet guns on unarmed Kashmiris which is causing injuries and even handicaps order by force, “We will never threaten most of the civilians. The use of pellet guns has costed many Kashmiris their eyes; the anyone, nor overthrow the existing ratio of blindness caused by pellet guns is increasing day by day in IoK. international system”. He also appreciated Pakistan seeks a peaceful and just resolution of the dispute in correspondence with Pakistan's efforts in joining hands with United Nations Security Council and the aspirations of Kashmiris, expressed the PM. China and Afghanistan to attain regional PM Abbasi urged UN to play its role in halting Indian atrocities being mete out on stability by mutual response. China's stance Kashmiri people of Indian occupied Kashmir. The PM also highlighted the deliberate of global security remains crystal clear; ceasefire violations by India along the Line of Control (LoC) and Working Boundary helping the developing countries by triggering risky escalations resulting in martyrdom of soldiers. The PM mentioned the providing all type of support. In the fact that such dangerous escalations might lead to confrontation of both the states if respective scenario, China wants to build India does not put a stop to its misadventures as Pakistan follows a zero tolerance peace not only in Pakistan but in the whole towards terrorism. region. The UN Secretary General acknowledged Pakistan's efforts towards counter- The BOAO Forum for Asia pointed out terrorism, humanitarian assistance to Afghan refugees and UN peacekeeping missions. two major changes in the economic trends The Secretary General expressed that he staunchly advocated the peaceful resolution of of the Asian region. Firstly, global trade Kashmir dispute through serious dialogue. protectionism is on the rise. Secondly, the apparatus of Asian growth is still in an uncertain state, and the interdependence of various economies in the global value chain continues to weaken. The economic integration and financial stability in Asia faces turbulence, as seen in 2016. Henceforth, the Report on Economic Integration in Asia proposed to reverse the trend of anti-globalization and promote rapid economic and trade growth in Asia by pulling of negotiations with RCEP with resolute means.

Writer is the CEO of Mélange IT Solutions Marketing, an expert on Political Economy, the Director of Bandial Group, Director IT ‘Mélange’ Magazine and ‘The Asian Telegraph’

Mélange 49 May 2018 Tribute H.E. Mr Movlamov Atajan Nurlyevich Promoting Relations and Forming Bonds project will prove one of the remedies to its energy crisis. The Central Asian state also wants to build the pipeline to sell energy to energy-hungry countries like Pakistan. The TAPI gas pipeline project will surely provide Dr. Lubna Umar energy security in the region. Moreover, the agreement to expedite connectivity projects between the two countries including roads Turkmenistan and Pakistan enjoy and rail linkages to increase bilateral trade has excellent economic, social, cultural and great potential to build healthy networking. political relations since 1991 when Pakistan At this point it is pertinent to note that r e c o g n i s e d t h e i n d e p e n d e n c e o f both Turkmenistan and Pakistan are Turkmenistan. For the past two decades, members of the Economic Cooperation Turkmenistan and Pakistan have been Organization. In November 2016, Pakistan developing good diplomatic relations. joined the Ashgabat Agreement which aims Pakistani Prime Ministers have paid special to export Turkmen gas throughout the visits to Turkmenistan and so have Prime region in addition to the Lapis Lazuli Ministers and high officials from corridor designed to facilitate trade. Turkmenistan. Talks have led to plans of Commerce and Textile Mohammad Pervaiz Discussing TAPI gas pipeline project, the further boosting bilateral relations between Malik according to which,'Businessmen and envoy said that Turkmenistan considers the two. It is at this point that the significant Traders of Turkmenistan have opportunities Pakistan as a strategic partner for this project contribution made by the Turkmen for investment in Pakistan' while talking to and is ready to cooperate more with Pakistan Ambassador H.E. Mr Movlamov Atajan ambassador of Turkmenistan, Movlamov in energy sector. Nurlyevich need to be mentioned. Atajan Nurlyevich in Islamabad. Further, the significance of CPEC needs Mr Movlamov Atajan plays a significant Further, he has been instrumental in to be highlighted as a means of connecting role in enhancing relations between both paving the way for various projects that aim both nations. The views about the countries. With an aim of boosting trade and to strengthen economic ties. This includes importance of CPEC project according to commerce, the Turkmen Ambassador has resolve made by both nations to expedite the Turkmenistan is as a special one as it would invited the Pakistani business community to $7.6 billion Turkmenistan-Afghanistan- guarantee progress and prosperity in the conduct business meetings and expos along Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project, region at large. While talking with the with offers to send Pakistani business which was inked in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Tu r k m e n a m b a s s a d o r , P a k i s t a n i delegations to his country. For this purpose, Both states agreed to start direct air links representative endorsed the fact that, “CPEC Turkmenistan has been asked to soften the between Turkmenistan and Pakistan which is the most important artery in the region and process of visa for Pakistani nationals aiming would develop a trade corridor in the region. stressed that all the regional countries should to visit for business. This is in harmony with Pakistan is currently suffering from an make their planning to get maximum benefit the statement made by Pakistan's Minister for energy crisis, and the TAPI gas pipeline from it”. Pakistan will play its positive role to bring peace in the region by fighting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Ambassador Movlamov while talking with the Federal Minister for Water and Power and Defense Khawaja Muhammad Asif assured that his country is committed to support Pakistan in energy sector and cooperation for enhancing bilateral engagement between the two countries in the energy, economic and defense spheres. The Federal Minister welcomed the Ambassador of Turkmenistan and conveyed the love and r e s p e c t t h a t Pa k i s t a n i s h a ve f o r Turkmenistan. He further asserted that Pakistan highly values its relations with Turkmenistan and wanted to enhance the relations between the two countries. It can be observed that Pakistan and Turkmenistan being brotherly countries are enjoying closed cordial relations in different fields and hoped that cooperation in the fields of energy and

Mélange 50 May 2018 Tribute defense would further strengthen the relations between the two countries. Atajan Movlamov, has addressed the problem of banking by working for the development of the banking channels that is now in process, which will facilitate the trade on a positive note between Pakistan and Turkmenistan. He considers that having an exchange of delegations, single countries exhibition and road shows organized by both countries can have a healthy effect upon the trade relations. Elaborating upon the state of Turkmenistan's human development, he stated that the Turkmen government is providing most basic needs to the people free of cost in their country and that it has a 100% sector such as trade and energy. The Movlamova unfolded celebrations of 25th literacy rate, which exhibits their extent of Ambassador stressed the need of increasing a n n i v e r s a r y o f T u r k m e n i s t a n ' s success in governance and management. the momentum of bilateral meetings to independence by holding an exhibition of This makes them experts in areas such as strengthen cooperation. photos and paintings. health and wellbeing and education. Thus, He also highlighted the fact that the two The pictures and paintings highlighted collaboration between Turkmenistan and countries shared views on major regional and images of Turkmenistan's culture, history Pakistan in the sector of Health and international issues concerning peace and and its achievements after the country got Education has great potential for the security. Cooperation in energy sector is a big free from the erstwhile Soviet Union. Pakistani community as it can address our lead forward. Both nations believe that The Paintings and drawings put on home needs to a great extent. Pakistan can offer connectivity to exhibition were done by young Pakistani While addressing matters pertaining to Turkmenistan and together we can multiply students. The Pakistani children focused on promotion of bilateral relations the Turkmen our economic potential as well. Both sides Pakistan- Turkmenistan friendly relations. ambassador has talked about the significance agreed to take steps to strengthen bilateral The two countries are closely cooperating of the issue for both nations. Both countries relations between the two countries. with each other in various fields. it is believed, can successfully expand the This fact has been endorsed by the The Turkmen Ambassador voiced his spectrum of bilateral relations. The Consul of Turkmenistan as it expressed that opinion of wanting deeper and more ambassador said that Pakistan and Pakistan and Turkmenistan are enjoying extensive cooperation with Pakistan and that Turkmenistan share historic, cultural and quite friendly relations, which will be a Turkmenistan is rich in energy resources and religious bonds. Over the years both Pakistan positive sign for the enhancement of bilateral is destined to play very important role in and Turkmenistan had successfully trade. Embassy of Turkmenistan to Pakistan meetings the energy deficit of several developed excellent diplomatic relations. He celebrated the 25th Anniversary of countries in the region including Pakistan. claimed that the leadership of Turkmenistan establishment of diplomatic relations He was confident that Pakistan shares the “is keen to strengthen these ties further by between Turkmenistan and Pakistan under same view. extending cooperation in multiple areas the able supervision of Atajan Movlamov. In this backdrop it can be seen that including political, defence and economic Both Ambassador Movlamov and Mrs Gazel Pakistan and Turkmenistan enjoy close, cordial relations marked by trust and understanding. These ties are characterized by mutual respect, shared perceptions and common desire to promote peace, stability and development in the region. The two countries also cooperate closely in regional and multilateral forums. Given the historical ties and geographic proximity, not to mention the strategic and economic potential of CARs for Pakistan, it is essential that foreign policy makers firmly incorporate countries such as Turkmenistan in their vision for Pakistan's future development on multiple fronts. It is at this point that the role played by H.E. Ambassador Movlamov needs to be lauded as it is mostly commitment and unparalleled dedication of individuals like him that is translated in histories of nations. The author is the Editor of ‘Mélange’ and ‘ The Asian Telegraph’ & Research Associate Center of Pakistan & International Relations

Mélange 51 May 2018 Special Report Cyber Security for a Sustainably Developed Pakistan

Amna Malik

Cyber security comprises technologies, processes and controls that are designed to protect systems, networks and data from cyber attacks. Effective cyber security reduces the risk of cyber attacks, and protects organisations and individuals from the unauthorised exploitation of systems, networks and technologies. Over the last few decades, the use of cyber space has made an exceptional innovation to take place, gave rise to the inter-connected world and brought people together from all spheres of life at one platform. Majority of modern nations had got rid of manual systems of infrastructure so vital to their national economy and shifted to enhance their systems to digitization. The government of Pakistan has been engaged in making policies for countering joint Asian Strategy to counter cyber threats. there is an urgent need to make a secure cyber cyber-attacks since 2003 but no actual If we look at neighboring countries approach space for Pakistan.Globally cyber security is implementation has been even done so far on towards fighting cybercrimes, it is evident that the part of overall strategy to promote the use ground. With every passing day and year, cyber a reactionary approach can never work when it of latest technologies in good governance space is not only being misused by cyber comes to fight in cyber space. The recent initiatives. The most recent global initiative in criminals but it has become a strongest haven meeting chaired by National Security Advisor this regard is Sustainable Development Goals for cyber terrorists to recruit and use it for Naseer khan Janjua for developing and (SDGs), which has now become the real road networking, communication, data gathering, evolving a mechanism to ensure cyber security map of development in Pakistan. In this psychological warfare, and mobilization of Pakistan at national level is one positive regard International Conference on Cyber purposes. The Senate Standing Committee step, but the real challenge comes at the Secure Pakistan Vision-2025 was organized on on Defence keeps recommending for implementation level. 29th March 2018 in Pak China Friendship improving cyber security of the country as Internet usage is increasing everywhere Center Islamabad by Pakistan Information Chairman standing committee proposed due to the current rapid transformation of Security Association in collaboration with seven-point action plan for countering cyber ICTs enabled services especially in education, Center of Information Technology (CIT). threats. The seven points also put emphasis on health and other walks of life. In this scenario, The Chief Guest of the Conference was Lt General (R) Nasser Janjua National Security Advisor to Prime Minister of Pakistan. Ten foreign Speakers were also part of the conference including, Doctor Amir ud Din Abdul who is CEO Cyber Security Malaysia and Vice President ICANN whereas Vice chancellors, Heads of Telecom Companies and Senior Officers from Government Organizations were also among the speakers. Malaysia Cyber Security CEO also spoke at the event. He said a number of measures had been taken by Malaysia to overcome cyber security challenges. Among these, he said, were the introduction of eight laws and partnerships with local universities. PISA president Ammar Jaffery said that the nation's future was inextricably linked to overcoming cyber security threats. The aim of the conference

Mélange 52 May 2018 Special Report

COPAIR Launches Cyber Security Girls Scouts President of Centre of Pakistan and International Relations, Amna Malik has taken the initiative to launch Cyber Security Scouts for the purpose of having a Cyber Secure Pakistan. This requires a lofty vision coupled with great strength to initiate and powerful commitment to take it forward in a manner that it not only benefits individuals but pave the way for future security concerns. Keeping in mind that the nature of digital system is vulnerable to cyber-attacks by malevolent groups, or individuals and with an increased usage of internet and phenomenal sophistication of cyber-attack by state and non-state actors, it becomes a serious challenge to either limit the usage of internet or counter these cyber threat. It is in this backdrop that cyber security has come up as a critical issue for the government of Pakistan, military, and security policy makers that calls for initiatives such as the Cyber Security Scouts. was to adjust the vital issue of sustainable Pakistan. Amna Malik, President Center of center so that they could remain secure from development of Pakistan and its linkages with Pakistan and International Relations cyber-attacks. Online fraud, theft and the cyber secure Pakistan. We all know that (COPAIR), has also participated in this blackmailing are all part of cybercrimes. It's a sustainable development can't be attained session. COPAIR's initiative of launching dangerous thing for people's personal life and without ensuring timely targets of SDG's and cyber security scouts also makes this platform privacy in modern time. Users must secure secure internet usage. Cyber secure Pakistan very pivotal regarding this particular issue. their passwords on internet and electronic 2025 has been designed with the successful When it comes to the Objectives and devices, and must be highly careful in order to achievement development goals as a global motives behind this cyber security save themselves from cybercrimes. Cyber agenda which Pakistan also has to attain in Conference, it becomes very clear that the Warfare is one of the hot topics for all the order to cope with the challenges. forum has provided voice to the thoughts of developed and developing countries. When it comes to the proceedings of the many. It was indeed a place where all Public While most of the security apparatus is

conference, several cyber security issues were and Private Sector Organizations got an geared towards the precarious nuclear balance, highlighted in the conference and appropriate opportunity to exchange opinions for a Cyber a new study has warned that cyber-attacks solutions were also recommended. Awareness Secure Pakistan. A CIT-CERT Coordination pose no less of a threat to the national is actually the first and the most imperative Center has also been established to perform economy and security. To mitigate this threat, point with regards to Cyber Security and several functions which includes, there is need for coordinated national efforts Cyber Crime. This conference was highly Training and building capacity of public to counter the problem of unpredictability applauded by the participants and authorities. and private sectors organizations to establish and anonymity enjoyed by cyber attackers. A special session was also the part of the their own CERTs, prevailing awareness Recognising the threat, the upper house of conference which specifically focused on among organizations and stake holders on the Parliament had set up a task force on cyber- Cyber Security of Women and Girls in risks, Issuing cyber threat alerts and advisories security, comprising around 40 experts to Pakistan. Young female participants were to members of the CIT CERT Coordination prepare a cyber-security policy, strategy, laws introduced to the cyber laws so they can report and a national CERT (Computer Emergency cyber crimes to Law Enforcement Agencies. Response. It is said that the global economy Law Enforcement Ag encies and could potentially lose around $2 trillion dollars Government Officials at the conference by 2019 due to cyber- attacks and the suggested several reforms in our current cyber vulnerability of global financial and corporate laws and policies. Lack of cyber security systems to cyber theft. awareness is the main reason of cyber crimes as a large number of internet users are unsecure. Conferences such as Cyber Secure Author is the President, Center of Pakistan and Pakistan 2018 are playing a major role in International Relations (COPAIR) and spreading awareness about cyber security in Editor-in-Chief of ‘Mélange’ and ‘The Asian Telegraph’

Mélange 53 May 2018 Special Report Lets Respect the Intellectual property Rights

Property Rights are set of rights associated Convention for the Protection of with creations of the human mind. Industrial Property in 1883 and An output of the human mind the Berne Convention for the m a y b e a t t r i b u t e d w i t h Protection of Literary and Zahid Haleem intellectual property rights. Artistic Works in 1886. World These are like any other I n t e l l e c t u a l P r o p e r t y property, and the law allows Organization (WIPO) was Every year on April 26, World the owner to use the same to established under Article 1 the Intellectual Property Day has been economically profit from WIPO Convention of 1967 observed around the world to learn about the intellectual work. to protect the IP the role that intellectual property rights Broadly IPR covers laws r i g h t s . T h e (patents, trademarks, industrial designs, related to copyrights, Intellect copyright) play in encouraging innovation patents and trademarks. and creativity. While laws for these 2018's World Intellectual Property Day are different in ual Property Rights campaign celebrated the brilliance, d i f f e r e n t are also outlined in ingenuity, curiosity and courage of the countries, they Article 27 of the women who are driving change in our f o l l o w t h e U n i v e r s a l world and shaping our common future. international D e c l a r a t i o n o f Intellectual property is a system that l e g a l Human Rights, which protects human creativity and makes sure instruments. provides for the right to it flourishes. It provides a legal framework The importance of benefit from the protection to stop people from stealing the work and protecting Intellectual Property of moral and material interests resulting ideas of those who create and innovate. It was first recognized in the Paris from authorship of scientific, literary or covers a broad area of human activity, artistic productions. The Convention on f r o m l i t e r a t u r e, mu s i c, a r t s a n d Biological Diversity in 1992 represents a e n t e r t a i n m e n t , t o t e c h n o l o g i c a l Intellectual Property commitment by nations to conserve innovations and patents that help to shape R i g h t s p r o t e c t t h e biological diversity, to use biological resources sustainably, and to share the interests of creators by benefits arising from the use of genetic giving them property resources as Intellectual Property fairly and equitably with the local communities. r i g h t s o v e r t h e i r Intellectual Property Rights protect c r e a t i o n s . M a n y the interests of creators by giving them property rights over their creations. Many industrialized nations industrialized nations have intellectual have intellectual property property protection systems that are centuries old. Among developing protection systems that countries, however, many are in the are centuries old. Among process of building up their patent, trademark and copyright legal frameworks developing countries, and intellectual property systems. With the increasing globalization of trade and rapid our world. Intellectual property also however, many are in the changes in technological innovation, relates to symbols, names, images and process of building up WIPO plays a key role in helping these commercial designs. Anyone who creates their patent, trademark systems to evolve through treaty anything original is protected by negotiation; legal and technical assistance; intellectual property laws. The aim of and copyright legal and training in various forms, including in World Intellectual Property Day is to get f r a m e w o r k s a n d the area of enforcement. people to respect the work of others and Like industrial revolution, post-war make sure the originators do not lose intellectual property c o n s u m p t i o n a n d t e c h n o l o g i c a l money or experience a loss of reputation systems. revolution, we are in a state of massive because of illegal copying. Intellectual changes. Yet unlike those eras, the

Mélange 54 May 2018 Special Report

IPO-Pakistan use to arrange several thrilling, action filled activities to celebrate the day, which usually include a walk, seminars and conferences. Multinational companies, who are the main victims of the violations of IPR laws, because of the use of same logos and products by unscrupulous manufacturers, are also making an effort to highlight the issue, but they also seem to be in disagreement on how to tackle the problem. Consumer Protection Council has offered its platform for facilitation and to create awareness against this menace, as consumers are also being cheated by these pirated products and logos. With improved business environment, confluence of economic, social and importance, as it plays a vital role in foreign investors are showing a keen environmental pressure has created boosting the economy. In addition, IP interest in Pakistan as 105,109 applications demands for innovation. At present, there education has been introduced at the have been received since 2013 for their are estimated to be seven billion people university and secondary level to ensure intellectual property rights registration. living on our resource deficient planet and students, recognizing the value of their if the current rate of development prevails, own intellectual property and the business there will be nine billion by 2050 and some they intend to enter. To serve this purpose, suggesting this figure may reach 10.6 the Intellectual property awareness billion. Our existence will solely depend on network (IPAN) has an education group a surge of creativity and invention. In the which is working hard to ensure that the near future the best gadgets will be defined next generation of university students is by their futility; once more necessity will be introduced to the IP rights. Despite the fact the mother of invention. that the government had established an In UK, the government has taken major autonomous body in 2005, as Intellectual steps to prioritize and support the property rights organization to enforce intellectual property development as the IPR and monitor its violation, working lifeblood of their economy. Recently, all under the administrative control of cabinet party IP groups initiated an inquiry to division but the control was recently Of these, only 40,650 or 38.67pc were realize the role of government in the handed over to commerce division. granted registration under the four promotion of IP and agreed on its To highlight the issue of IPR violations, categories of trademarks, copyrights, patent and industrial designs. Registration gives rights to the owner to initiate legal action against piracy, infringement and unfair commercial use. Once an intellectual property right (IPR) is registered at home, then it should be registered in the country of export as well. IPO-Pakistan generates revenue from the registration of IPRs. In the last few years, a surplus of over 90 million rupees was deposited to the government exchequer after spending on expenditures. The main challenge for IPO- Pakistan will remain IPR enforcement to address issues of piracy and counterfeiting in the country. Analysts say strong enforcement is also one of the conditions to attract more foreign investments in the country.

The writer is Staff Reporter & Content Writer in ‘Mélange’ Magazine & ‘ The Asian Telegraph’

Mélange 55 May 2018 Random Clicks A Delightful Spring Festival Serena Hotel hosted a fabulous Spring Festival to bring together members of the diplomatic core and business community along with friends of the Serena Hotel to celebrate the arrival of spring in an outdoor event. Delicious food produced at live cooking stations showcased different cuisines from all the restaurants while various activities were arranged to keep young children entertained, making the Festival truly a family day out under pristine blue skies.

Mélange 56 May 2018 News Update

oil reserves in Africa. The country's oil expected to pay off in five years after the British war jets on output has been subject to fluctuations, as highway's launch. the local industry has underdeveloped C y p r u s r e a d y f o r upstream infrastructure. A number of Is China preparing a military action in Syria Libyan oil fields and facilities aren't yuan surprise in the UK's Royal Air Force jets on Cyprus operational due to strikes by workers and are ready to swoop into action if the technical failures, but oil companies operating in many parts of the country are trade war with the US? cabinet authorizes airstrikes on Syria. US President Donald Trump imposed British fighter jets have been operating continuing to extract and export oil. Many parts of the north African state 10% and 25% tariffs on imported aluminum from the RAF Akrotiri airbase in the and steel respectively in March 2018, Eastern Mediterranean, from where they are still witnessing violent clashes between warring rebel groups. After Gaddafi was prompting a harsh response from China, toppled, the slave trade made a return, and which has so far suffered the most under the various human rights groups are still new regulation. reporting of widespread torture by China is viewing a gradual depreciation numerous rebel groups, including those of the yuan as one of the possible who were directly supported by the NATO- led coalition. I r a n m u l l s o v e r have been attacking the Daesh terror constr ucting major group. This comes in response to last Saturday's route through 3 states to alleged chemical attack on the city of r e a c h t h e m e d i - instruments in a trade war with the US. They Douma in the Eastern Ghouta region near are currently performing a two-pronged Damascus. Syrian authorities have denied terranean Sea analysis of the yuan in terms of the current any wrongdoing after destroying its The ambitious project will reportedly situation with the US. One scenario stockpile of chemical weapons. US connect Iran with three other Middle supposes using it in trade negotiations, the President Donald Trump threatened Syria Eastern countries and is expected to serve as other — devaluing it to negate effects of the with a missile strike. trade tariffs that curb export. US President Donald Trump imposed Libya producing 1 the trade tariffs on steel and aluminum in March, although it has temporarily excluded million barrels of oil Per some of the countries from being affected day as country remains by it, such as Canada, Mexico and European countries. China, which will reportedly in chaos suffer the most from the tariffs (with an Rebels killed Colonel Muammar estimated $150 billion loss annually), has Gaddafi and toppled his regime in late 2011, imposed 10-25% in taxes on 128 categories as part of the wider so-called “Arab Spring.” of goods imported from the US as a Almost seven years on, the country is Tehran's main transit route for exports. Iran reciprocal measure. ramping up its oil exports, but remains plans to build a highway connecting Tehran Trump later expressed his opinion that divided between opposing militant factions. with cities in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon and eventually Beijing will lift its trade barriers, Libya is producing around 1.05 million provide the country with access to the as it's "the right thing to do" and that the barrels of per day (bpd) of oil, with much of Mediterranean Sea. According to the media intellectual property theft issue with China it being exported abroad, primarily to outlet, Iranian authorities have already will be resolved. Beijing, for its part, Europe. signed bilateral agreements on the announced that it doesn't want to wage a Libya, which is a member of the construction of a 1,700 km long land route trade war with the US, but noted that is ready Organization of the Petroleum Exporting with authorities in Baghdad and Damascus. to do so if needed. The spokesman for the Countries (OPEC), has the largest proven T he project is expected to be Chinese Foreign Ministry said that implemented within two years. The Washington is solely responsible for starting highway will connect Tehran with ports in the latest trade war. Syria and Lebanon (as well as with their capitals) and is expected to be used Religious ministr y primarily as a transit route of Iranian celebrates easter with goods to the ports in the Mediterranean Sea for their subsequent export. The christian community project's budget has not yet been disclosed, Currently Pakistan is on the US Special but according to latest estimates, it is Watch List for 'severe violations of religious

Mélange 57 May 2018 News Update freedoms'. However, the country is making been in poor health in recent days and was power vowing to reduce the country's net all-out efforts to brush off these being treated for age-related issues and greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050, accusations. multiple infections. A veterinary team made said existing exploration permits would not The Federal Ministry for Religious the decision to euthanize Sudan after his be affected. There are currently 31 oil and gas Affairs and Interfaith Harmony while condition deteriorated significantly, the exploration permits, 22 of them offshore. playing its due role continues celebrating conservation group Wild Aid announced. New Zealand's oil and gas industry religious events of the minorities living in S u d a n l i ve d i n t h e O l Pe j e t a brings in about NZ$2.5bn (£1.3bn) a year Conservancy in Kenya, surrounded by and it employs some 11,000 people. Its 1% armed guards in the days leading up to his contribution to the economy is small death to protect him from poachers. "He compared to sectors such as agriculture and was a gentle giant, his personality was just tourism, but it is extremely important to the amazing and given his size, a lot of people North Island's Taranaki region, where most were afraid of him. But there was nothing of the industry is based. There is also the mean about him," said Elodie Sampere, a potential for vast gas fields off the South representative for Ol Pejeta. Island, with the most promising existing Researchers were able to save some of permit being the Barque Prospect, Sudan's genetic material in the hopes of estimated to contain 5 trillion cubic metres successfully artificially inseminating one of of oil and gas. the two females left, Sampere said. "We can Ms Ardern said she had been inspired by Pakistan, officially, in order to give a loud only hope that the world learns from the sad a recent visit to the Pacific islands of Samoa and clear message to the world that all loss of Sudan and takes every measure to and Tonga, where she saw the impact of religious minorities enjoy equal rights under end all trade in rhino horn. While prices of climate change. "(New Zealand has) been a the Constitution and have full liberty to rhino horn are falling in China and Vietnam, world leader on critical issues... by being perform their religious duties and celebrate nuclear free, the first to support women to their holy days. vote," she said. "Now we could be a world In this regard the Federal Ministry of leader in becoming carbon neutral. "We owe Religious Affairs organized an event to this to future generations." Environmental celebrate Easter with the Christian group WWF New Zealand welcomed the community living in Pakistan. move, describing it as a "huge step forward" While speaking on the occasion, and a "landmark moment". But Jonathan participants highlighted challenges such as Young, energy spokesman for the opposition extremism, sectarian violence and hatred National Party, said it was "economic being faced by people belonging to different poaching for horn still threatens all rhino vandalism". religions across the globe. They were of the species," said Wild Aid CEO Peter Knights. He said: "This decision is devoid of any view that such attitude towards society is Rhinos are targeted by poachers, fueled rationale. It certainly has nothing to do with playing a major role in spreading hatred by the belief in Asia that their horns cure climate change. "These changes will simply among people and also defaming religions. various ailments. Experts say the rhino horn shift production elsewhere in the world, not They gave out the message of peace, is becoming more lucrative than drugs. In reduce emissions." Neil Holdom, mayor of unity, love and said that together they can all addition to round-the-clock security, the Ol Taranaki's main city New Plymouth, told address these issues and make this world a Pejeta Conservancy also put radio Radio NZ that it was a "kick in the guts" for peaceful place to live. On the occasion the transmitters on the animals and dispatched Christian community pledged with special incognito rangers into neighboring prayers to serve for the maintenance of communities to gather intelligence on religious obligations by the community poaching. besides for the welfare of the community and uplift and prosperity of the country. New Zealand stops new The celebration was attended by MNA Asiya Nasir, Pastor Pervez Sohail, and offshore oil and gas Bishop Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters among others. However, Federal Minister for exploration to fight the region. Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Petroleum Exploration and Production Yousaf could not attend the event due to climate change. NZ chief executive Cameron Madgwick told prior engagements. The country's PM says the move will TV3: "We now join the elite club of Belize, tackle climate change for a "sustainable Costa Rica and France that have banned Wo r l d ' s l a s t m a l e future" but critics say it is "economic exploration. "I don't think that's really the northern white rhino dies vandalism". Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern way the world's going," But Ms Ardern said: announced the move, saying: "(We are) "Transitions have to start somewhere and The world's last male northern white taking an important step to address climate unless we make decisions today that will rhino has died leaving only two females left change and create a clean, green and essentially take place in 30 years' time, we risk to save the subspecies from extinction. sustainable future for New Zealand." abrupt shocks." The news comes two weeks The 45-year-old rhino named Sudan had The Labour Party leader, who came to after the Netherlands said it would rapidly cut

Mélange 58 May 2018 News Update production at Europe's largest gas field to cut Cape Canaveral in Florida, riding a SpaceX quick scams. Mr Lewis said: "There are fossil fuel use. Falcon rocket. customers who have lost a lot of money. The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Some of them won't even talk to me Migrants drown off Satellite will spend two years scouring 85% because they've seen my face on the advert of the sky and hundreds of thousands of L i b y a n c o a s t a s its brightest stars. The satellite, about the size of a washing machine, will scan the hundreds are rescued stars for signs of periodic dimming, which Eleven migrants have died at sea and may mean that planets are orbiting around 263 have been rescued off the coast of them. Libya, the country's navy said. The It is hoped that Tess will find around migrants died as they were trying to cross 20,000 exoplanets - planets outside our from the country's western coast to Italy. solar system - with more than 50 expected The migrants were found in two separate to be Earth-sized. There are already 3,700 exoplanets that we know of, with another 4,500 on the not-yet-verified list. Tess is and think it's me who has scammed them - looking for the ones that are Earth-like and it's an absolute disgrace. close enough to allow scientists to study "I've had enough of this. It's affecting them further. my reputation, but more importantly it is They are particularly interested in affecting real people who are handing over those in the so-called Goldilocks or money in good faith while the scammers h a b i t a b l e z o n e o f a s t a r, w h e r e are raking in the cash." The television temperatures are right for water and, personality and journalist pledged that if operations. therefore, human life. Once Tess has he wins any money in damages, he will In the first operation, the coastguard discovered the planets, strong telescopes donate it to charity. He said the action was found 11 bodies and 83 survivors off the will be used to learn more about them, not designed to win the defamation case town of Sabratha, while in the second, the looking for signs such as oxygen, methane, itself but to force the company to change coastguard rescued 180 migrants on two carbon dioxide and water vapour. The inflatable boats near the town of Zliten. its policy on advertising. He wants the m i s s i o n i s i n e x p e n s ive by s p a c e company to have inbuilt settings notifying The migrants were believed to be from exploration standards - £237m - and various sub-Saharan African countries. well-known people every time their image Wednesday's launch went without a hitch. is used in an advert, requiring their Libya was plung ed into chaos T homas Zurbuchen, associate approval. following a 2011 uprising, and remains administrator of NASA's Science Mission Mr Lewis said: "I hope to open up a legal split between rival governments in the east Directorate in Washington, said: "We are remedy for other people who have found and west, each backed by an array of thrilled Tess is on its way to help us themselves in the same boat. "I don't do militias. Libya has since been a frequently discover worlds we have yet to imagine, used route to Europe for migrants fleeing worlds that could possibly be habitable, or adverts. I've told Facebook that. Yet it poverty and conflicts in Africa and the harbour life. "With missions like the James simply continues to repeatedly publish these Middle East. Webb Space Telescope to help us study the adverts and then relies on me to report More than 600,000 crossed the central details of these planets, we are ever the them, once the damage has been done. "I've Mediterranean to Italy in the past four closer to discovering whether we are alone got no idea how successful this legal action years, the vast majority from Libya. in the universe." will be or how long it will take but I can't sit back and let it (scamming) happen. I'm NASA's Tess spacecraft Martin Lewis to sue trying to give Facebook a bloody nose and actually get some changes made - or at least begins search for new Facebook over fake get people talking about this." planets Mr Lewis said he would be prepared to adverts with his name call a halt to the defamation claim if NASA's Tess spacecraft has blasted off Martin Lewis is to sue Facebook over Facebook pledged to tackle the scam ads from Earth in a search for new planets that claims it has published over 50 bogus problem. Facebook said: "We do not allow could support life. Tess lifted off from adverts bearing his name, many of which adverts which are misleading or false on have been used to scam thousands of Facebook and have explained to Martin p o u n d s o u t o f p e o p l e . T h e Lewis that he should report any adverts MoneySavingExpert founder is due to that infringe his rights and they will be lodge court papers at the High Court for a removed. "We are in direct contact with his defamation lawsuit against Facebook. team, offering to help and promptly He said the legal action was the result investigating their requests, and only last of months of frustration with scammers week confirmed that several adverts and piggybacking on his reputation and accounts that violated our advertising preying on Facebook users with get-rich- policies had been taken down.”

Mélange 59 May 2018 Travel Destination Melange Team Saudi Arabia The birthplace and spiritual home of Islam, Saudi Arabia is as rich in attractions as An Experience to Discover it is in stirring symbolism. It is also one of the most difficult places on Earth to visit. Here are the some of the beautiful places of Saudi Arabia: Jeddah The country's commercial capital, and a point of convergence for pilgrims and traders for centuries, Jeddah is the most easygoing city in the Kingdom – not to mention its most beguiling. The Al Balad district, the heart of Old Jeddah, is a nostalgic testament to the city's bygone days, with the beautiful coral architecture of historic buildings casting some welcome shade over the bustling souqs where shopkeepers hawk their goods. Jeddah has done much to improve its image over the years. North Jeddah in particular has underg one massive the contradictions of modern Saudi Arabia sitting on the beach with few people on redevelopment to make the corniche more more evident than in Riyadh. Seen from either side of you. Hajj season however, attractive to visitors, while upscale afar, soaring, sparkling, stunning modern draws big crowds. department stores and malls have expanded towers rise above the desert and shiny Taif shoppers' choices. The city is also famed for 4WDs throng modern highways. Up close, Situated 1700m above sea level, Taif can its international cuisine and seafood, and Riyadh is cautious and sober (certainly seem like a breath of fresh air in summer, comparable to Jeddah), not to mention and compared to humid Jeddah it truly is. Its conservative and deeply rooted in Saudi traditions. Throw in fine hotels and restaurants and some excellent sights, and it's a fascinating place to spend a few days. Yanbu At first glance, with its port, refineries and petrochemical plants, Yanbu is hardly the Kingdom's most attractive spot. But it's fast becoming the top tourist destination in the country with its premier scuba-diving gentle, temperate climate is its biggest remains a sweet spot for scuba divers both attraction. Watch for wild baboons along the seasoned as well as novice. mountain roadside on the way into the city Riyadh from Jeddah. Once a walled, mud-brick way station Taif is family friendly, with over 3000 along desert trading routes, Riyadh garden parks scattered throughout the city (meaning 'garden') is the Kingdom's and outlying areas. In the evening the parks political, financial and administrative capital are packed with families spreading out a full and one of the wealthiest cities in the world. supper on blankets where some bring It also has a very Saudi subtext: nowhere are locations and pristine white sandy shores, sheesha, filling the night air with a sweet, with many resorts and private beaches smoky aroma. Taif is not known for its geared towards families. The industrial restaurants, so buying everything you need section of Yanbu is a good 10km to 15km at a market and settling down for a picnic is a South of the city centre and has little impact wonderful alternative. The city is upon the region's gorgeous beaches to the particularly popular among visitors for its North. The downtown area is small but roses and fruit – particularly honey-sweet quaint, with an unhurried atmosphere not figs, grapes, prickly pears and pomegranates. found in the larger cities. I n s u m m e r Ta i f b e c o m e s t h e Just outside town is a vast open desert Kingdom's unofficial capital when the king that gives way to the water, and it's here that relocates here. most visitors spend their time. Imagine

Mélange 60 May 2018 Food Corner

Saudi CuisineMutabbaq Melange Team Mutabbaq is the favorite of Saudis! Not only has it gained popularity among the Southern regions of Saudi Arabia but is now Saudi Arabian food has gained being served with great zeal and zest in popularity all over the world. The Saudi Yemen, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, food is delicious and tempting. Those who eat once, always have a desire to eat it again. Margoog is another tasty and famous A Saudi dish is a blend of variety of food in Saudi Arabia. The dish has a texture ingredients most commonly wheat, rice as of soup that contains meat complimented well as lamb, chicken along with yogurt, with vegetables and a certain type of flour potatoes and of course dates. Saudi dishes paste. incorporate a variety of spices that is eventually the key to get a unique flavor. The delicious and tasty Saudi dishes are served at parties, events and weddings as well! Here are some of the most popular Saudi dishes. Kabsa Singapore, Brunei and Thailand. Kabsa is a great Saudi Arabian dish that It is a dish, rich in taste and ingredients. is made out of rice. This dish is made by the It is made through combinations of the combination of rice, meat, vegetable and Kabsa as well as Jereesh, and Gursan. It can spices. be taken as an appetizer, side meal or even The flour used is the one made out of Ruz al Bukhari snacks. grains. The dish is extremely healthy as it has Ferek significant amount of dietary fibers and A plate filled with Ferek in winter is all vitamins. It is indeed a healthy delight. It is that you would want once you try it. It is traditional dish item that has originated indeed a perfect winter treat. It is made by from the Najd region. Arabic tea and coffee Al Qahawa or the Arabic coffee is a ritual in itself. It is usually made with the addition of some cardamom, served in small cups without handles and always with dates. If you are eating in a restaurant, it is always served complimentary with the meal. Bukhari rice is also commonly known as The Maghrebi mint tea is common in the Ruz al Bukhari has the Afghani origin. It is Berber areas-Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, such common, tasty and traditional food Libya... But it has spread to other parts of that it can very easily be found in Saudi the Arab world too. Green tea is made with restaurants. This rice dish is basically served brown onion paste added with spices and the addition of mint leaves. It can be fairly with roast chicken, yet it is equally amazing sweet. Due to the addition of spices, it has a if served with spicy tomato sauce, chopped rich and unforgetable taste. fresh salad assembled with fried potato Harees cubes. Harees is a traditional Arabic one pot dish made with wheat and chicken. You can even make this amazing recipe with boneless lamb too. A traditional Middle-Eastern dish which is made in almost all the Arab households, the harees is made daily during Ramadan, whether it is for suhoor or iftar, harees is a must have during Ramadan. With ceremonial-the tea is always offered by the minimal spices, it is light and easy on the head of the household to the guest and at stomach and also a simple, filling and least three glasses are offered. It is impolite delicious dish. Margoog to refuse.

Mélange 61 May 2018 Book Review The Neopopular Bubble Speculating on 'the People' in Late Modern Democracy

The Neopopular Bubble makes its second critical incision Péter Csigó by expounding in detail the process by which speculation has Melange Team come to function. Aggregating collective wisdom as a means of The Neopopular Bubble by Péter h a n d l i n g t h e i n c r e a s i n g Csigó—a sociological study written in the complexity and arbitrariness of tradition of French theory, reminiscent of the social life is itself a complicated works of Pierre Bourdieu and Luc Boltansk a n d r e s o u r c e - i n t e n s i v e —makes its first critical incision by arguing mechanism, one that creates a that theories of liquidity require a thorough demand for a whole new class of and critical rethinking in light of the 2008 experts, gurus and pundits, whose financial collapse. Unlike most theories that job, besides simplifying social ascribe the various crises, maladaptations and c o m p l e x i t y i n t o e a s i l y collective delusions that have become recognisable codes, is to parse, characteristic of contemporary modernity to interpret and extract rules for corrigible methodological errors in successful behaviour within the interpretation or the malicious intentions of liquidised society. powerful actors, the book proposes that, due Csigó names this new to the effects of liquidity, error is the inevitable institution 'the fifth estate', and by result of a novel form of sense-making that way of example one can think has come to dominate public discourse. This here of the international cadres process—speculative, collective and of election experts, social media mythological in nature—is marked by p r o f e s s i o n a l s , f i n a n c i a l 'structural feedback deficiency' and a strong investment advisors, credit rating tendency towards exclusive self-referentiality, agencies and so forth. The fifth producing autonomous discursive enclaves or estate depends entirely on the first place, yet whose hermeneutic validity bubbles, impenetrable to falsification. This already-existing collective norms, and, as such, is unquestioningly accepted. Within this realm entire sense-making mechanism, composed in functions as an echo chamber for the of bubbles, traditional notions of actors and response to the liquidity of social structures, is amplification of predetermined stereotypes interest groups lose importance in the face of gathered together under the concept of regarding what constitutes useful strategies for collective forces that operate as if of their own Speculative Reason, the primary hermeneutic success. Due to the fifth estate's interests of accord. faculty for interpreting public discourse in the self-preservation, any criticism is dismissed as The Neopopular Bubble arrives at its most post-2008 world. elitist, outdated or simply a matter of innovative moment when it puts forward the As predicted by standard analyses, the technicality. idea of 'latent events'—delayed and liquidisation of mass institutions accelerates Ultimately, Csigó claims, the ascendancy unpredictable reactions to speculation. In the complexity of social life, increases the of Speculative Reason, and its respective general, the theoretical reworking that Csigó arbitrariness of social meaning and, in turn, institutionalisation through the fifth estate, carries out is far more radical than the idea of provokes various coping strategies. According seems to bring to fruition the Adornian performativity, which is still one of the leading t o C s i g ó , t h e m a i n o n e h a s b e e n prophesy that, at their most intense, practices theoretical frameworks today. Instead, he speculation—the reliance on collective sense- of rationalisation collapse into mythology. advances the much more uncomfortable making practices such as the aggregation of Indeed, what liquidity provokes is a new form conclusions that, under conditions of liquidity individual judgments in place of the meaning of mythmaking—not the Marxist kind and Speculative Reason, one can no longer structures provided by the old mass premised on the idea of false consciousness assume the basic congruence between thought institutions. However, counter to predictions, manipulated by a ruling class, but a collective and its object, or between theory or model on instead of ushering in an era of popular for m of mythmaking, in which the the one hand and the underlying reality it sets participation, reflexive adaptation and greater aggregators and interpreters of information out to explain or perform on the other. social agency, Speculative Reason has are just as much participants in the myth as the It has for a long time been argued that produced paradoxical results. Although average individuals who provide the input and contingency rather than necessity is the collective sense-making, or speculation, does consume the output. The result is increasing operative factor in the fundamental structures rely more on individual input for its practices proliferation across the entire social of society. Until now, however, this insight has of aggregation than did the old mass spectrum—in economy, politics and only had an abstract basis, without an institutions, the result is the crystallisation of media—of rigidly established discursive accompanying social theory. What the work of structures of meaning that are no less enclaves that run entirely on their own internal Csigó does is for the first time provide a unyielding than previous ones while being, logic, gradually losing any real connection with foundation for a new theory of social indeed, far less responsive to forms of control the conditions of production, consumption miscontructionism, one properly suited to the than their predecessors. and popular opinion that produced them in times of liquid modernity.

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