ISLAMABAD, US President Barrack Hussain Obama has been placed on top of the list while Prime Minister Gilani has been given 38th place and the list includes 67 heads of state and governments, criminals, financiers and philanthropists who really run the world.
A distinguished US magazine Forbes has included Prime Minister Pakistan Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani among 67 most powerful persons across the world. The fresh issue of Forbes has published the list of such people with their brief profiles.
Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani who came on 38th of the list after Dr Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, at 36th and Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden at 37th. According to Forbes list, the following are 67 world most powerful persons; Barack Obama, Hu Jintao, Vladimir Putin, Ben S Bernanke, Sergey Brin and Larry, Page, Carlos Slim Helu, Rupert Murdoch, Michael T. Duke, Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al Saud, William Gates III, Pope Benedict XVI , Silvio Berlusconi, Jeffrey R Immelt, Warren Buffett, Angela Merkel, Laurence D. Fink , Hillary Clinton, Lloyd C Blankfein, Li Changchun, Michael Bloomberg, Timothy Geithner Rex, W Tillerson, Li Ka-shing Kim Jong Il, Jean-Claude, Trichet Masaaki Shirakawa, Sheikh Ahmed bin Zayed al Nahyan, Akio Toyoda, Gordon Brown, James S Dimon, Bill Clinton, William H. Gross, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Lou Jiwei, Yukio Hatoyama, Manmohan Singh, Osama bin Laden, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Tenzin Gyatso, Ali Hoseini-Khamenei, Joaquin Guzman, Igor Sechin, Dmitry Medvedev, Mukesh Ambani, Oprah Winfrey, Benjamin Netanyahu, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, Zhou Xiaochuan, John Roberts Jr., Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar, William Keller, Bernard Arnault, Joseph S Blatter, Wadah Khanfar, Lakshmi Mittal, Nicolas Sarkozy, Steve Jobs, Fujio Mitarai, Ratan Tata, Jacques Rogge, Li Rongrong, Blairo Maggi, Robert B Zoellick, Antonio Guterres, Mark John Thompson, Klaus Schwab and Hugo Chavez.
To calculate the final rankings, five Forbes senior editors ranked all
of our candidates in each of these four dimensions of power. Those individual rankings were averaged into a composite score, which determined who placed above (or below) whom.
U.S. President Barack Obama emerged, unanimously, as the world's most
powerful person, and by a wide margin. But there were a number of surprises.
Former President George W. Bush didn't come close to making the final cut, while his predecessor in the Oval Office, Bill Clinton, ranks 31st, ahead of a number of sitting heads of government.
There are only 67 slots on their list one for every 100 million people
on the planet so being powerful in just one area is not enough to guarantee a spot.
Take Italy's colorful prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi (No. 12) who is a politician, a media monopolist and owner of soccer powerhouse A.C. Milan, or Oprah Winfrey (No. 45) who can manufacture a best-seller and an American President.
Ingvar Kamprad, the 83-year-old entrepreneur behind Ikea and the richest man in Europe, was an early candidate for this list, but was excluded because he doesn't exercise his power.
On the other hand, Russian autocrat Vladimir Putin (No. 3) scored points because he likes to throw his weight around by jailing oligarchs, invading neighboring countries and periodically cutting off Western Europe's supply of natural gas.
Showing posts with label International. Show all posts
Showing posts with label International. Show all posts
UN MISSION DISCUSSES ALLOCATION OF SAUDI ARABIA’S US$100 MILLION PLEDGE FOR PAKISTAN
A high-level United Nations mission, representing the whole humanitarian community in Pakistan, has travelled to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to discuss the allocation of the US$100 million pledged by the Kingdom last month.
“The meetings with high-level government representatives are going extremely well and we are on the right track to rightly allocate this generous donation to the most needy people in Pakistan,” said Manuel Bessler, Head of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Pakistan.
In the last few weeks, the Humanitarian Country Team, which comprises UN agencies as well as international and national non-governmental organisations, has assessed the situation and has made proposals on where this additional aid is mostly required.
Millions of people have been affected by the conflict, and humanitarian assistance is needed for those who are still displaced, those who are newly displaced, those who have returned to their areas of origin, those who never left the conflict-affected areas and the families providing shelter for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Of the 2.7 million people displaced since the start of the conflict in August 2008, 1.02 million are still living with either host families or in the 19 camps supported by the humanitarian community. About 1.65 million people have returned to their homes since July 2009 but ongoing military operations are still triggering new displacements, especially in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).
To date, 60 percent of the $680 million revised requirements for the Pakistan Humanitarian Response Plan has been funded by more than 20 countries and private individuals and organisations.
“The meetings with high-level government representatives are going extremely well and we are on the right track to rightly allocate this generous donation to the most needy people in Pakistan,” said Manuel Bessler, Head of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Pakistan.
In the last few weeks, the Humanitarian Country Team, which comprises UN agencies as well as international and national non-governmental organisations, has assessed the situation and has made proposals on where this additional aid is mostly required.
Millions of people have been affected by the conflict, and humanitarian assistance is needed for those who are still displaced, those who are newly displaced, those who have returned to their areas of origin, those who never left the conflict-affected areas and the families providing shelter for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Of the 2.7 million people displaced since the start of the conflict in August 2008, 1.02 million are still living with either host families or in the 19 camps supported by the humanitarian community. About 1.65 million people have returned to their homes since July 2009 but ongoing military operations are still triggering new displacements, especially in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).
To date, 60 percent of the $680 million revised requirements for the Pakistan Humanitarian Response Plan has been funded by more than 20 countries and private individuals and organisations.
Pakistan Participates in Int.NAM Exhibition
Islamabad: Pakistan is participating in a big way in an international exhibition entitled, “Women of NAM: A Thousand Faces”, to be held from 23rd to 25th October, 2009 at Mid Valley Exhibition Centre (MVEC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Exhibition is being organized by the NAM Institute for the Empowerment of Women (NIEW).
According to the Commercial Counselor for Pakistan High Commission, Mr. Wajiullah Kundi Trade Development Authority of Pakistan(TDAP) is actively coordinating high level participation from Pakistan, and in this regard, Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce(IWCC) and Women Sub-committee of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) have confirmed their participation, whereas Sargodha Chamber of Commence and Women Association of Pakistan have expressed their keen desire to attend the exhibition.
Mr. Kundi said that a Fashion Show is being organized, as a part of the ‘cultural performance show to highlight and introduce top quality and highly soughtafter contemporary Clothlines of Pakistani women designers, adorned with traditional embroidery, representing cultural and clothing styles of different regions of Pakistan.
Mr. Wajiullah said that a renowned Pakistan Company Gul Ahmad lawns has also been coordinated to display its world famous cotton based cloths and dresses, whereas, a private company from Hyderabad, Pakistan, M/S Madina Orient Gallery and two Malaysian Firms owned by Expatriate Pakistanis, M/S Nasim Carpets and M/S Bareeze have confirmed their participation.
The Commercial Councilor said that TDAP, in coordination with Ministry of Women Development of Pakistan is also planning to screen documentaries, display posters and other material for the exhibition
Mr. Kundi said that keeping in view the large participation, the management of NAM has allocated additional space for Pakistan to effectively represent in all sectors of the exhibition.
The High Commissioner for Pakistan in Malaysia Lt. General (Redt) Tahir Mahmud Qazi while commenting on, one of the largest participation from Pakistan said that Exhibition (NIEX 09) is a unique platform to develop mutual cooperation, exchange of views, sharing of best practices and mechanism and also to strengthen bilateral and multilateral diplomatic ties between NAM Member Countries and hoped that through this exhibition, the public will be able to appreciate the efforts made by the members of NAM Countries to empower their women and progress being made by them to achieve gender equality.
He said that active and large participation of Pakistani women representative bodies in the NIEW exhibition is a reflection of fact that Pakistan women are playing their active and constructive role in sphere of national life.
NIEW is an institute established by the Malaysian Government, as a result of a commitment made at the First NAM Ministerial Meeting in 2005, in Putrajaya, Malaysia, on the Advancement of Women___P.R
International schools confused about delayed reopening
Saudi Ministry of Education (MOE) said that all international schools should reschedule their opening to conform with the dates set by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz, and defer the start of the new academic year in order to combat the H1N1 (swine flu) virus.
“The directives from the King to extend the summer break were meant for Saudi schools as well as all international and private schools,” said Omima Zahid, Director of the MOE Educational Information Unit.
Although, international schools have been awaiting an official ministry circular, the MOE official told Saudi Gazette, “the directive of deferral was received from the King, not from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health, hence international schools should not expect further instructions from the ministries”.
Schools in Saudi Arabia were initially scheduled to open on October 3rd for the start of the academic year 2009-2010, but after the extended summer break they will now begin on October 10th for higher classes and October 17th for lower classes.
Dr. Sadiq Dahlan, Director General of Coral International School in Jeddah said that international school administrators are confused “as they presumed that they would receive an official circular from the MOE, but, as yet, there has been nothing from the ministry”.
“A rumor is also being heard that the schools might be opening after the Haj holidays,” he said.
Contrary to the rumor, Zahid said that there are no such orders up to now. “If the King does not seek further postponement, all schools will start the new academic year delayed by one week for the intermediate and secondary schools, and two weeks for elementary schools and kindergartens,” she said.
On the behalf of the American International School in Jeddah (AISJ), Superintendent, Dr. Mark English sent messages to all parents stating, “As per MOE directive, the school will not open on September 26th. All after-school meetings and activities will also be suspended. We expect to reopen on October 10 (Tentative). We will provide the exact date as soon as we receive it from MOE.”
Rania Kaddoura, a Lebanese mother who has two children studying at AISJ, is not pleased with the sudden extension of the summer holidays. “We travelled during the holidays to return in time for the new school term only to be informed about the delay. Now the children have nothing to do, and we are avoiding taking them out to crowded places due to the swine flu risk.”
The delay has raised a concern in many schools about the loss of studies as well. “It may be difficult for us to cover the syllabus. We still haven’t announced the rescheduling of the start date as we still haven’t received the circular from the Ministry of Education,” said Rafiq-ul-Islam Farooq, Principal of the Bangladesh International School Jeddah (Bengali section).
Bangladesh International School (English Section) will start on September 27th while the Bengali Section will start on October 3rd as per as their earlier planned schedule.
Dahlan plans to increase his school’s timings by an hour daily, organize classes on Thursdays as well as provide online assistance if necessary, in order to keep in line with the syllabus. “These are unexpected holidays, but I do not consider it a big issue to cover the syllabus.”
He said that the main concern is that delaying the start of the academic year will affect next year’s summer vacation, “If this does apply then the next summer holidays will also be delayed,” stated Dahlan.
Pakistan International School Jeddah (PISJ) -Azizyah is less concerned with the delay in the start of schools as “we ended the school term a week later than other schools as we predicted that families might be travelling for Eid and so allowed them time to return,” said Ashfaq Mahmoud, Principle of PISJ-Azizyah.
Mahmoud has requested a medical specialist to present an awareness lecture on swine flu and to perform a health check for students. PISJ will start from October 10th for higher classes and October 17th for lower classes.
Coral International School has also decided to hold a special awareness program for students, parents and teachers. “We have doctors on call at the school and any staff, even with normal flu, will get a one-week holiday without salary reduction as a precaution,” said Dahlan.
Parents are satisfied with the holidays as a preventative measure until the swine flu vaccine becomes available; however, they are also concerned about the loss of studies. “We pay for the whole year and children are getting too many holidays and this will end up being a burden for them. Schools should start online tuition as an alternative,” said Mrs. Muniba Ishtiyaq, a mother with children studying at the Indian International School, Jeddah (IISJ).
Kindergarten to 5th grade classes will begin on October 17th and 6th to 12th grade classes will begin on October 10th at the IISJ.
Principle of Pakistan International School Jeddah- English section (PISJ-ES) Sahar Kamran has requested parents to get their children vaccinated. “The school will arrange awareness and swine flu handling sessions for staff members,” she said.
PISJ-ES will re-open on 10th October for students of class seven and above. Nursery to class six students will resume their studies on Saturday 17th October.
Saudi Gazette asked parents of the Indonesian, Indian, Pakistani and Sri Lankan communities in the Kingdom if they were willing to have their children vaccinated. “It is good to be cautious and get the necessary preventive vaccine,” was the opinion of most parents.
Indonesian International School in Jeddah is scheduled to start on October 3rd, while Sri Lankan and Philippine International Schools are expected to start as per their initial schedule decided before the summer break. - SG
“The directives from the King to extend the summer break were meant for Saudi schools as well as all international and private schools,” said Omima Zahid, Director of the MOE Educational Information Unit.
Although, international schools have been awaiting an official ministry circular, the MOE official told Saudi Gazette, “the directive of deferral was received from the King, not from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health, hence international schools should not expect further instructions from the ministries”.
Schools in Saudi Arabia were initially scheduled to open on October 3rd for the start of the academic year 2009-2010, but after the extended summer break they will now begin on October 10th for higher classes and October 17th for lower classes.
Dr. Sadiq Dahlan, Director General of Coral International School in Jeddah said that international school administrators are confused “as they presumed that they would receive an official circular from the MOE, but, as yet, there has been nothing from the ministry”.
“A rumor is also being heard that the schools might be opening after the Haj holidays,” he said.
Contrary to the rumor, Zahid said that there are no such orders up to now. “If the King does not seek further postponement, all schools will start the new academic year delayed by one week for the intermediate and secondary schools, and two weeks for elementary schools and kindergartens,” she said.
On the behalf of the American International School in Jeddah (AISJ), Superintendent, Dr. Mark English sent messages to all parents stating, “As per MOE directive, the school will not open on September 26th. All after-school meetings and activities will also be suspended. We expect to reopen on October 10 (Tentative). We will provide the exact date as soon as we receive it from MOE.”
Rania Kaddoura, a Lebanese mother who has two children studying at AISJ, is not pleased with the sudden extension of the summer holidays. “We travelled during the holidays to return in time for the new school term only to be informed about the delay. Now the children have nothing to do, and we are avoiding taking them out to crowded places due to the swine flu risk.”
The delay has raised a concern in many schools about the loss of studies as well. “It may be difficult for us to cover the syllabus. We still haven’t announced the rescheduling of the start date as we still haven’t received the circular from the Ministry of Education,” said Rafiq-ul-Islam Farooq, Principal of the Bangladesh International School Jeddah (Bengali section).
Bangladesh International School (English Section) will start on September 27th while the Bengali Section will start on October 3rd as per as their earlier planned schedule.
Dahlan plans to increase his school’s timings by an hour daily, organize classes on Thursdays as well as provide online assistance if necessary, in order to keep in line with the syllabus. “These are unexpected holidays, but I do not consider it a big issue to cover the syllabus.”
He said that the main concern is that delaying the start of the academic year will affect next year’s summer vacation, “If this does apply then the next summer holidays will also be delayed,” stated Dahlan.
Pakistan International School Jeddah (PISJ) -Azizyah is less concerned with the delay in the start of schools as “we ended the school term a week later than other schools as we predicted that families might be travelling for Eid and so allowed them time to return,” said Ashfaq Mahmoud, Principle of PISJ-Azizyah.
Mahmoud has requested a medical specialist to present an awareness lecture on swine flu and to perform a health check for students. PISJ will start from October 10th for higher classes and October 17th for lower classes.
Coral International School has also decided to hold a special awareness program for students, parents and teachers. “We have doctors on call at the school and any staff, even with normal flu, will get a one-week holiday without salary reduction as a precaution,” said Dahlan.
Parents are satisfied with the holidays as a preventative measure until the swine flu vaccine becomes available; however, they are also concerned about the loss of studies. “We pay for the whole year and children are getting too many holidays and this will end up being a burden for them. Schools should start online tuition as an alternative,” said Mrs. Muniba Ishtiyaq, a mother with children studying at the Indian International School, Jeddah (IISJ).
Kindergarten to 5th grade classes will begin on October 17th and 6th to 12th grade classes will begin on October 10th at the IISJ.
Principle of Pakistan International School Jeddah- English section (PISJ-ES) Sahar Kamran has requested parents to get their children vaccinated. “The school will arrange awareness and swine flu handling sessions for staff members,” she said.
PISJ-ES will re-open on 10th October for students of class seven and above. Nursery to class six students will resume their studies on Saturday 17th October.
Saudi Gazette asked parents of the Indonesian, Indian, Pakistani and Sri Lankan communities in the Kingdom if they were willing to have their children vaccinated. “It is good to be cautious and get the necessary preventive vaccine,” was the opinion of most parents.
Indonesian International School in Jeddah is scheduled to start on October 3rd, while Sri Lankan and Philippine International Schools are expected to start as per their initial schedule decided before the summer break. - SG
Synthetic Filament Yarn Export to Pakistan From Malaysia
Synthetic Filament Yarn Export to Pakistan From Malaysia Over Six Month Increased by 60.3%
Malaysian Export of Synthetic Filament Yarn to Pakistan for the first six month of this year posted an hefty increase of 60.3% when compared to the corresponding period of last year.
According to the Commercial Counselor for Pakistan High Commission, Mr. Wajiullah Kundi, the export of Synthetic Filament from Malaysia to Pakistan rose to RM 64.98 million compared to RM 40.53 million in the corresponding period of last year thereby registering an unprecedented increase of 60.3%.
While quoting data obtained from Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) Mr. Kundi said that the Palm oil export from Malaysia to Pakistan remain stable in the first six months of this year compare to the corresponding period of last year In Monetary terms, the palm oil export touched RM 1.97 billion compared to 2.08 billion of last year thereby registering a slight decrease of 5.17% .
According to Mr. Kundi, the largest decrease recorded was in export of Nature rubber which ebb from RM 40.29 million in the first six month of last year to RM 15.96 million in the corresponding period of this year, thereby registering a decrease of 60.4%..
The insecticide export from Malaysia to Pakistan also register a decrease of 13.91 % in the subject period. Total export of insecticide remained low at RM 21.42 million in the subject period this year compared to RM 24.88 million in the corresponding period of last year.
The Fibre Board of Wood, another major export from Malaysia to Pakistan, remain stable with a slight decrease of 12.31 %. In monetary terms the total export of Fibre Board of Wood touched RM 21.55 million in first six of this year compared to RM 24.58 million in the corresponding period of last year.
Similar decrease was also observed in export of Part and Accessories. The total export of Part and Accessories from Malaysia to Pakistan in the first six months of this year was recorded at RM 24.63 million compared to 31.28 million in the corresponding period of last year, registering a decrease of 21.26%.
The High Commissioner for Pakistan, Lt General (Retd) Tahir Mahmud Qazi while commenting on the data said that after signing of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and Malaysia at the end of 2007, a new window of opportunity has been opened up for the traders of the both the country which he said however remained highly underutilized..
Mr. Tahir Qazi said that immense potential of bilateral trade that exist between the two countries can be gauged from the fact that MATRADE has set the target of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Malaysia at US$ 10 billion by 2015. The target although looks ambitious, but is achievable, provided that traders of both the country devote themselves to find newer venues of trade, and unleash immense potential that exist for bilateral trade by fully utilizing the cut and reduction in duties and taxes to over twelve thousands products.
In 2008, Malaysia's total exports to Pakistan stood at RM5.73 billion, an increase of 33.04 percent from the RM4.31 billion the previous year.
Malaysian Export of Synthetic Filament Yarn to Pakistan for the first six month of this year posted an hefty increase of 60.3% when compared to the corresponding period of last year.
According to the Commercial Counselor for Pakistan High Commission, Mr. Wajiullah Kundi, the export of Synthetic Filament from Malaysia to Pakistan rose to RM 64.98 million compared to RM 40.53 million in the corresponding period of last year thereby registering an unprecedented increase of 60.3%.
While quoting data obtained from Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) Mr. Kundi said that the Palm oil export from Malaysia to Pakistan remain stable in the first six months of this year compare to the corresponding period of last year In Monetary terms, the palm oil export touched RM 1.97 billion compared to 2.08 billion of last year thereby registering a slight decrease of 5.17% .
According to Mr. Kundi, the largest decrease recorded was in export of Nature rubber which ebb from RM 40.29 million in the first six month of last year to RM 15.96 million in the corresponding period of this year, thereby registering a decrease of 60.4%..
The insecticide export from Malaysia to Pakistan also register a decrease of 13.91 % in the subject period. Total export of insecticide remained low at RM 21.42 million in the subject period this year compared to RM 24.88 million in the corresponding period of last year.
The Fibre Board of Wood, another major export from Malaysia to Pakistan, remain stable with a slight decrease of 12.31 %. In monetary terms the total export of Fibre Board of Wood touched RM 21.55 million in first six of this year compared to RM 24.58 million in the corresponding period of last year.
Similar decrease was also observed in export of Part and Accessories. The total export of Part and Accessories from Malaysia to Pakistan in the first six months of this year was recorded at RM 24.63 million compared to 31.28 million in the corresponding period of last year, registering a decrease of 21.26%.
The High Commissioner for Pakistan, Lt General (Retd) Tahir Mahmud Qazi while commenting on the data said that after signing of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and Malaysia at the end of 2007, a new window of opportunity has been opened up for the traders of the both the country which he said however remained highly underutilized..
Mr. Tahir Qazi said that immense potential of bilateral trade that exist between the two countries can be gauged from the fact that MATRADE has set the target of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Malaysia at US$ 10 billion by 2015. The target although looks ambitious, but is achievable, provided that traders of both the country devote themselves to find newer venues of trade, and unleash immense potential that exist for bilateral trade by fully utilizing the cut and reduction in duties and taxes to over twelve thousands products.
In 2008, Malaysia's total exports to Pakistan stood at RM5.73 billion, an increase of 33.04 percent from the RM4.31 billion the previous year.
Pakistani, Indian foreign ministers meet in New York
NEW YORK: Pakistani and Indian foreign ministers met here Sunday to discuss bilateral relations, which were derailed in the wake of November 2008 Mumbai attacks. Both Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and
his Indian counterpart SM Krishna smiled as they shook hands at the start of the meeting."I am shaking hand and I'm shaking it very firmly,"the top Pakistani diplomat said. The foreign ministers meeting was preceded by a meeting
between the foreign secretaries of the two South Asian countries on Saturday.Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir, Pakistani high commissioner to New Delhi, Shahid Malik and senior diplomats assisted Foreign Minister Shah while Indian foreign secretary Nirupoma Rao, Indian ambassador to the United Nations Hardeep Singhpuri were part of the Indian side---APP
his Indian counterpart SM Krishna smiled as they shook hands at the start of the meeting."I am shaking hand and I'm shaking it very firmly,"the top Pakistani diplomat said. The foreign ministers meeting was preceded by a meeting
between the foreign secretaries of the two South Asian countries on Saturday.Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir, Pakistani high commissioner to New Delhi, Shahid Malik and senior diplomats assisted Foreign Minister Shah while Indian foreign secretary Nirupoma Rao, Indian ambassador to the United Nations Hardeep Singhpuri were part of the Indian side---APP
International Day of Democracy, 15 September, 2009
On 8 November 2007, the General Assembly proclaimed 15 September as the first ever International Day of Democracy, inviting Member States, the United Nations system and other regional, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to commemorate the Day. The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the General Assembly in 1948, clearly projected the concept of democracy by stating “the will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government.” The Declaration spells out the rights that are essential for effective political participation. Since its adoption, the Declaration has inspired constitution-making around the world and has contributed greatly to the global acceptance of democracy as a universal value.
Chinese offers to upgrade the existing power plants
Federal Minister for Water and Power, Raja Pervez Ashraf has said that the government will consider the Chinese proposal for up gradation and rehabilitation of existing thermal power plants to enhance their generation capacity and facilitate the foreign companies.He said this while talking to three member delegation of Shanghai Electric Power Generation Group, headed by International Services Director, Guo Feng who called on the Minister here today in his office. Secretary Water and Power, Shahid Rafi was also present.The Minister said that the government is taking all steps to end power crisis within shortest possible time frame and all the resources are being utilized in this regard. The government wants to generate maximum from the oldest public sector thermal power plants. He said that different proposals are already under consideration for rehabilitation of power plants. The decision in this regard will be taken soon. He welcomed the Chinese proposal and asked them to submit a detailed feasibility report to the Ministry.Earlier, Mr. Guo Feng briefed the Minister on their proposal and said that they are initially interested to rehabilitate and expand the capability of two units of Muzaffargarh power plants. After rehabilitation the generation capacity will raise from 220 to 350 MW from both units. It will also protect the environment and save fuel with maximum benefits and minimum investment. He said that feasibility study of their proposals is under process and will submit to the Ministry after Ramadan ul Mubarak.
Pakistan and Malaysia to Form Joint Business Council
Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry(FPCCI) and National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia(NCCIM) are actively pursing formation of Joint Business Council(JBC) of Pakistan and Malaysia to bridge private businesses through the Chambers of Commerce, says a Press Release received here today.The decision to activate the formation of JBC was made after a meeting held recently between High Commissioner for Pakistan in Malaysia, Lt. General (Retd) Tahir Mahmud Qazi and Executive Director of NCCIM Syed Hussain Al Habshee.The High Commissioner in a statement issued today said that a Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) was signed between the Malaysia and Pakistan on 6th of May, 2005 for formation of JBC, but only recently implementation on MoU has been activated.Mr. Tahir Qazi said that the purpose of JBC is to foster friendship and understanding promote trade and investment, facilitate transfer of technology and strengthen cooperation in services and other sectors of economic activities between the business communities of Malaysia and Pakistan.The High Commissioner said that as a first step Business Councils are being setup by the FPCCI and NCCIM respectively composed of private sector businessman, and will work in closest collaboration and cooperation in order to achieve free exchange of information regarding trade, economic cooperation and services between the two countries.The Commercial Counselor for Pakistan Mr. Wajiullah Kundi said that Pakistan High Commission is in advance stage of facilitating negotiation between FPCCI and NCCIM, and in this regard progress has been made to expedite appointment of Chairmen of both the councils, and once the Chairmen are appointed, the Business Councils will be activated in the respective countries to pave the way for formation of Joint Business Council.
Turkish President Calls President Zardari
Turkish President Abdullah Gul telephoned President Asif Ali Zardari Monday afternoon. The two discussed bilateral ties and issues relating to forthcoming Friends of Democratic Pakistan Summit in New York. Spokesperson to the President former Senator Farhatullah Babar said that President Asif Ali Zardari also talked about the need for starting a high speed cargo train from Pakistan to Turkey as a means to boost trade and commerce. The Turkish President said that he will ask Turkish experts to examine the proposal.President Abdullah Gul also invited President Zardari to the Nov 9 summit of the Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of OIC(COMCEC) in Istanbul. The summit is being held to commemorate twenty five years of the COMCEC as the OIC body to promote economic and commercial cooperation between member countries. President Zardari thanked the Turkish President for the lead role played by Turkey in helping Pakistan to further the FoDP initiative.
Pak Ambassador in Saudi Arabia Calls on President
Pakistani ambassador in Saudi Arabia Mr. Omar Khan Ali Sherzai called on President Asif Ali Zardari here Thursday in the Presidency.The President said that Pakistan attaches high value to its friendship with Saudi Arabia and urged the Ambassador to work for further enhancing the socio- economic, trade, commercial and cultural ties between the two countries.The ambassador apprised the President about the status of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Must unite to eliminate terrorism by Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan
Some Foreign elements are busy in the target killing of Ulem & Masheikh, sabotaging the peace in this country and earning a bad name of Pakistan in the world. We will not give up our hopes. These terrorists would be finished with the power of masses and the cooperation of Pak Army very soon. I appeal people of Pakistan and Ulema from all schools of thoughts to display their unity and work for strong incumbents Government’s hands for the betterment of peace and prosperity of the country. We must be committed to maintain peace and harmony in the country.
This was stated by the Federal Minister for Population Welfare Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan on the Birth Day Conference of Hazrat Imam Hasan at local hotel here today.
The Federal Minister said that we have to unite to eliminate terrorism in our country; these extremists are committing terrorism in the name of Islam.
She said that we should follow the teachings of Hazrat Imam Hasan. She said that Hazrat Imam Hasan sacrifice his life for the glorification of Islam.
The Minister said that the present government under the dynamic leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani is making concrete steps to create an interfaith harmony and promote religious tolerance in the country.
This was stated by the Federal Minister for Population Welfare Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan on the Birth Day Conference of Hazrat Imam Hasan at local hotel here today.
The Federal Minister said that we have to unite to eliminate terrorism in our country; these extremists are committing terrorism in the name of Islam.
She said that we should follow the teachings of Hazrat Imam Hasan. She said that Hazrat Imam Hasan sacrifice his life for the glorification of Islam.
The Minister said that the present government under the dynamic leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani is making concrete steps to create an interfaith harmony and promote religious tolerance in the country.
Bahrain Ambassador calls on Dr. Farooq Sattar
Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Ambassador of Bahrain in Pakistan called on Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Dr. Farooq Sattar, here today.
During the meeting, Dr. Farooq Sattar briefed the envoy about the various initiatives taken by the present government for the facilitation and welfare of overseas Pakistanis. He also highlighted the efforts of the Government of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. He said that the world community should assist Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and extremism.
Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad Abdul Qadir briefed the minister about various initiatives launched by the Bahrain government for the overseas Pakistanis and he commended the constructive role of the overseas Pakistanis in different sectors in Bahrain. He also appreciated the role of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism
Dr. Farooq Sattar thanked the ambassador and the Government of Bahrain for taking various steps for the benefit of Pakistani community in Bahrain.
During the meeting, Dr. Farooq Sattar briefed the envoy about the various initiatives taken by the present government for the facilitation and welfare of overseas Pakistanis. He also highlighted the efforts of the Government of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. He said that the world community should assist Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and extremism.
Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad Abdul Qadir briefed the minister about various initiatives launched by the Bahrain government for the overseas Pakistanis and he commended the constructive role of the overseas Pakistanis in different sectors in Bahrain. He also appreciated the role of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism
Dr. Farooq Sattar thanked the ambassador and the Government of Bahrain for taking various steps for the benefit of Pakistani community in Bahrain.
Thar Coal Reserved in Pakistan.
If All The Oil Reserves of Saudia Arab & Iran Put Together
These Are Approximately 375 Billion Barrels,
But A Single Thar Coal Reserve Of Sindh is about 850 Trillion Cubic Feet,
Which is More Than Oil Reserves Of Saudia & Iran.
These reserves estimated at 850 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas, about 30 times higher than Pakistan 's proven gas reserves of 28 TCF.
Dr Murtaza Mughal president of Pakistan Economy Watch in a statement said that these reserves of coal worth USD 25 trillion can not only cater the electricity requirements of the country for next 100 years but also save almost four billion dollars in staggering oil import bill.
Just 2% usage of Thar Coal Can Produce 20,000 Mega Watts of Electricity for next 40Years ,without any single Second of Load Shedding.
and if the whole reserves are utilized, then it could easily be imagined how much energy could be generated.
The coal power generation would cost Pakistan PKR 5.67 per unit while power generated by Independent Power Projects cost PKR 9.27.
It Requires Just Initial 420 Billion Rupees Initial Investment,
Whereas Pakistan Receives annually 1220 Billion from Tax Only.
Chinese and other companies had not only carried out surveys and feasibilities of this project but also offered 100 percent investment in last 7 to 8 years but the “Petroleum Gang” always discouraged them in a very systematic way.
But Petroleum lobby , is very strong in Pakistan and they are against any other means of power generation except for the imported oil. This lobby is major beneficiary of the increasing oil bill that is estimated above 15 billion dollar this year. Even GOV. is planning to Sell all these reserve to a company on a very low price.
When Pervez Musharraf was president he gave green signal to embark upon the initiation of work on exploiting energy potential of these coal reserves of Thar under a modern strategy.
Think About This, How We Can Help Our Home Land .
These Are Approximately 375 Billion Barrels,
But A Single Thar Coal Reserve Of Sindh is about 850 Trillion Cubic Feet,
Which is More Than Oil Reserves Of Saudia & Iran.
These reserves estimated at 850 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas, about 30 times higher than Pakistan 's proven gas reserves of 28 TCF.
Dr Murtaza Mughal president of Pakistan Economy Watch in a statement said that these reserves of coal worth USD 25 trillion can not only cater the electricity requirements of the country for next 100 years but also save almost four billion dollars in staggering oil import bill.
Just 2% usage of Thar Coal Can Produce 20,000 Mega Watts of Electricity for next 40Years ,without any single Second of Load Shedding.
and if the whole reserves are utilized, then it could easily be imagined how much energy could be generated.
The coal power generation would cost Pakistan PKR 5.67 per unit while power generated by Independent Power Projects cost PKR 9.27.
It Requires Just Initial 420 Billion Rupees Initial Investment,
Whereas Pakistan Receives annually 1220 Billion from Tax Only.
Chinese and other companies had not only carried out surveys and feasibilities of this project but also offered 100 percent investment in last 7 to 8 years but the “Petroleum Gang” always discouraged them in a very systematic way.
But Petroleum lobby , is very strong in Pakistan and they are against any other means of power generation except for the imported oil. This lobby is major beneficiary of the increasing oil bill that is estimated above 15 billion dollar this year. Even GOV. is planning to Sell all these reserve to a company on a very low price.
When Pervez Musharraf was president he gave green signal to embark upon the initiation of work on exploiting energy potential of these coal reserves of Thar under a modern strategy.
Think About This, How We Can Help Our Home Land .
52 Years of Pakistan-Malaysia Friendship
Pakistan and Malaysia enjoys exemplary fraternal bilateral relations not only at government to government level, but people to people relations are also flourishing with enhanced activities in all fields, including trade and economic, social and cultural, defence, media and sports.
This was stated by the High Commission for Pakistan in Malaysia, Lt. General (Retd) Tahir Mahmud Qazi, in his address, at a grand reception organized by the Pakistan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, last night to celebrating 52 years of successful and mutually beneficial diplomatic relationship between two countries.
The grand reception was attended in large number by high profile dignitaries, diplomats, distinguished Expatriate Pakistanis, media elites and members of civil society.
The High Commissioner said that celebrating the 52 years of friendship with Malaysia in conjunction 62nd Independence Day of Pakistan, in indeed, is a fitting acknowledgement of enhance diplomatic, business and trade activities between the two countries.
“This can be gauged from the fact that trade between the two countries have risen from US$835m in 2006 to US$1.8b in 2008 but also has a scope to increase to ten (10) billion US$ by the year 2012, the target set by the Malaysian Trade Development Authority MATRADE”. The target although looks ambitious, but is achievable specially after signing of a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries in November, 2007, he added.
On the diplomatic front, He said that Malaysia and Pakistan enjoys common membership in groups such as the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as the Developing Eight (D-8) and have supported each other on all most all issue concerning the two countries.
Earlier, National Anthems of both Pakistan and Malaysia were played.
The cake was cut to mark the event and distinguished guests and organizers were presented with gifts.
Later, His Excellency, the High Commissioner awarded cash prizes to Pakistani Malaysia students who had excelled in their educational careers. The first prize of One thousand Ringgit (Equal to Rs.24,000) was awarded to Miss. Salwa Ahmed Musani D/o Mr. Saleem Ahmed Musani on securing Nine A’s in SPM Examination Board, and being declared as best student of the year by her school. Second prize of Five Hundred (500) Ringgit (Equat to Rs.12,000) was awarded to Miss Fatima Imran D/o Mr. Imran Sajid for securing top positions consecutively in three years in class Seven, Eight and Nine.
During the sit in dinner, Malaysia’s Cultural Troupe gave a breathtaking performance followed by performance of Pakistan folk Dancers which enthralled the audience.
A blend of Malaysian Pakistani Dance performance won a standing ovation from the audience.
The other events which captivated the audience were Live performance by Malaysian and Pakistani renowned Singers, Dress Show, and Display of Pakistani Handicrafts on the sideline, and multimedia presentation.
Ms Saira Naseem, a renowned Pakistan singer who arrived from Pakistan a day earlier engrossed the audience with her melodious voice for two hours.
This was stated by the High Commission for Pakistan in Malaysia, Lt. General (Retd) Tahir Mahmud Qazi, in his address, at a grand reception organized by the Pakistan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, last night to celebrating 52 years of successful and mutually beneficial diplomatic relationship between two countries.
The grand reception was attended in large number by high profile dignitaries, diplomats, distinguished Expatriate Pakistanis, media elites and members of civil society.
The High Commissioner said that celebrating the 52 years of friendship with Malaysia in conjunction 62nd Independence Day of Pakistan, in indeed, is a fitting acknowledgement of enhance diplomatic, business and trade activities between the two countries.
“This can be gauged from the fact that trade between the two countries have risen from US$835m in 2006 to US$1.8b in 2008 but also has a scope to increase to ten (10) billion US$ by the year 2012, the target set by the Malaysian Trade Development Authority MATRADE”. The target although looks ambitious, but is achievable specially after signing of a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries in November, 2007, he added.
On the diplomatic front, He said that Malaysia and Pakistan enjoys common membership in groups such as the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as the Developing Eight (D-8) and have supported each other on all most all issue concerning the two countries.
Earlier, National Anthems of both Pakistan and Malaysia were played.
The cake was cut to mark the event and distinguished guests and organizers were presented with gifts.
Later, His Excellency, the High Commissioner awarded cash prizes to Pakistani Malaysia students who had excelled in their educational careers. The first prize of One thousand Ringgit (Equal to Rs.24,000) was awarded to Miss. Salwa Ahmed Musani D/o Mr. Saleem Ahmed Musani on securing Nine A’s in SPM Examination Board, and being declared as best student of the year by her school. Second prize of Five Hundred (500) Ringgit (Equat to Rs.12,000) was awarded to Miss Fatima Imran D/o Mr. Imran Sajid for securing top positions consecutively in three years in class Seven, Eight and Nine.
During the sit in dinner, Malaysia’s Cultural Troupe gave a breathtaking performance followed by performance of Pakistan folk Dancers which enthralled the audience.
A blend of Malaysian Pakistani Dance performance won a standing ovation from the audience.
The other events which captivated the audience were Live performance by Malaysian and Pakistani renowned Singers, Dress Show, and Display of Pakistani Handicrafts on the sideline, and multimedia presentation.
Ms Saira Naseem, a renowned Pakistan singer who arrived from Pakistan a day earlier engrossed the audience with her melodious voice for two hours.
Bangladesh High Commissioner visited the Bangla School in Islamabad
Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Yasmeen Murshed visited the Bangla School in Islamabad yesterday to see for herself the progress of teaching and learning process there.
High Commissioner talked to the teachers of the school and inquired about their teaching techniques. She also asked the tiny tots the progress they made so far during their learning process.
Yasmeen Murshed expressed her satisfaction over the performance of the pupils shown during her visit to the Bangla School.
It may be mentioned that the Bangla School started its functioning on 28 March this year. High Commissioner Yasmeen Murshed inaugurated it amid huge jubilation.
Bangla language is being taught to the children of age up to 12 years at the Bangla School to help them continue learning Bangla language during their expatriate life. The pupils are the boys and girls of the members of Bangladesh community in Islamabad. The Expatriate Bangladeshis have been running the Bangla School in Islamabad.
14 August 2009 Pakistans 63 Independence Day
14 August 2009
Happy Independence Pakistan
Best Wishes for Pakistan and Pakistanis
Deutsche Welle's Urdu Service
The Urdu Service of Deutsche Welle, Germany's international radio and television station, is celebrating 45 years of its existence on Friday, Aug. 14.
Deutsche Welle started its Urdu broadcast on the same day 45 years ago in 1964.
Since then DW Urdu programmes have been reaching their countless listeners in South Asia and the rest of the world, for many years only by radio and since many years also through internet. Today the Urdu Service of DW from the former German capital of Bonn is journalistically valued very high by our traditional listeners and multimedia users from across the globe.
The Urdu team of Deutsche Welle wants to thank and acknowledge on this occasion the dedicated listeners and users who have contributed hugely to the success of this ‘Urdu broadcast from the heart of Europe’ during the past so many years through their feedback.
We want to express our profound gratitude for hundreds of our listeners for their greetings on this occasion which they sent to us in their letters, phone calls,
emails, voice mails and SMS messages. We also want to congratulate our Pakistani and Indian listeners home and abroad on the Independence days of Pakistan and India on Aug. 14th and 15th respectively.
We are sure, for a quick nostalgic journey through the 45 years of Urdu programme of DW, you will find the following multimedia presentation on the front page of our website really interesting:
http://www.dw-world.de/dw/0,,659,00.html?id=659
Deutsche Welle started its Urdu broadcast on the same day 45 years ago in 1964.
Since then DW Urdu programmes have been reaching their countless listeners in South Asia and the rest of the world, for many years only by radio and since many years also through internet. Today the Urdu Service of DW from the former German capital of Bonn is journalistically valued very high by our traditional listeners and multimedia users from across the globe.
The Urdu team of Deutsche Welle wants to thank and acknowledge on this occasion the dedicated listeners and users who have contributed hugely to the success of this ‘Urdu broadcast from the heart of Europe’ during the past so many years through their feedback.
We want to express our profound gratitude for hundreds of our listeners for their greetings on this occasion which they sent to us in their letters, phone calls,
emails, voice mails and SMS messages. We also want to congratulate our Pakistani and Indian listeners home and abroad on the Independence days of Pakistan and India on Aug. 14th and 15th respectively.
We are sure, for a quick nostalgic journey through the 45 years of Urdu programme of DW, you will find the following multimedia presentation on the front page of our website really interesting:
http://www.dw-world.de/dw/0,,659,00.html?id=659
Dialogue, not war, the only solution to world’s conflicts
By Sameera Aziz
WE used to have a few sessions for sharing thoughts as part of my PhD warm-up course. In one such session, we had a heated debate on an issue that got my professor angry, as unfortunately, most of our elders cannot stand contradictory views from their students. It should not be surprising for a person like me (who has been practically involved in journalism since almost a decade) to express my views straightforwardly. Our respectable professor wanted me to accept his point of view that “war is the only way to bring peace”. He supported the old American notion by presenting the historical fact that America got independence as a result of the Revolutionary War.
Before the American War of Independence (1775 – 1783), the colonies did not want to be taxed without representation. Hence, the war started in the North American continent between the 13 united former British colonies and Great Britain. It finished in a global war between several European great powers.
My view (which may have supported the British Empire) was based on the rejection of the war. I argued that war vanished 13 colonies, costed a lot financially, resulted in the loss of an unknown number of lives, and, eventually, the outbreak of disease claimed more lives than the actual battle. I was not convinced with the idea of war, even if it was for a good cause. I just hate any idea of destruction.
Our respectable professor is among those teachers who want to suppress minds. He told me to leave the hall immediately because he thought I was influencing other students, as a result of which, the debate entered into the Iraq war issue. This took place during the twilight of the Bush administration in the US, and prior to Obama’s presidency.
I was supporting Obama’s views, quoting the speech he delivered on October 2, 2002, at the first high-profile anti-Iraq war rally in Chicago. He gave a thumbs down to ‘dumb wars’, saying, “So for those of us who seek a more just and secure world for our children, let us send a clear message to the president today. You want a fight, President Bush? Let’s finish the fight with Bin Laden and Al-Qaeda, through effective, coordinated intelligence, and a shutting down of the financial networks that support terrorism, and a homeland security program that involves more than color-coded warnings.”
Furthermore, he said, “You want a fight, President Bush? Let’s fight to make sure that the UN inspectors can do their work, and that we vigorously enforce a non-proliferation treaty, and that former enemies and current allies like Russia safeguard and ultimately eliminate their stores of nuclear material, and that nations like Pakistan and India never use the terrible weapons already in their possession, and that the arms merchants in our own country stop feeding the countless wars that rage across the globe.”
I left the hall as it was my duty to respect the order of my respectable teacher, but I kept supporting the notion of peace. At present, we see that President Obama is opening the doors for peace and has declared that America will be ready to talk to the Taleban. American forces are prepared to make overtures to the moderate Taleban commanders using an approach that saw insurgents in Iraq turn against Al-Qaeda.
Why do we not think about peace dialogues? Are we crazy to think about war in this era of nuclear weapons? Today, wars can never bring positive revolutions. Instead they only bring disasters to humanity. It is time that each and every atomic power in the world should sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) to secure all dangerous nuclear weapons and materials for a worldwide peace, including countries in South Asia. India and Pakistan should sign the treaty together in a ‘peace ceremony’. Moreover, it should also be considered that the ratification of the CTBT by America and Israel will trigger other ‘non-ratifiers.’
Besides the signing of the CTBT, peace and prosperity in South Asia can be achieved by completing the peace process of India and Pakistan. The diplomatic efforts of composite dialogues between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir problem should be effectively, practically and seriously addressed. The 26/11 Mumbai attack was indeed a gruesome incident in the world’s history that spoiled the important five-year-long peace talks.
However, a ray of hope has emerged again as Prime Minister of Pakistan, Yousaf Raza Gilani, and Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, are meeting today in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. Every peace loving person is wishing for the resumption of a back channel peace process in the same tacit way that had once started during Pervez Musharraf’s time, giving us hopes of a peaceful solution for Kashmir.
India is willing to meet Pakistan “more than half way” if it cleans up militants that it blames for the Mumbai attacks. In response, Pakistan is also aiming to make keen efforts. But, it would be unproductive to merely talk about the blamed militants while neglecting the Kashmir issue which is linked with the fundamental rights of more than 17 million Kashmiri people.
India and Pakistan have had many rounds of talks earlier as well. They have failed to make effective development on core issues. Indeed, the terrorists’ network should be uprooted effectively from both the countries and the people of Jammu and Kashmir should also be a part of the peace process for a satisfactory solution.
America needs to pay heed to the Kashmir issue in order to get rid of terrorism as well as to win the war in Afghanistan. Talks are the best solution to bring peace, but these should just not be mere talks. Peace needs agreements, treaties, bonds, will and honesty.
The consequences of war are terrible and the sacrifices are untold. Nonviolent measures are the only solution for a peaceful world today. – SG
WE used to have a few sessions for sharing thoughts as part of my PhD warm-up course. In one such session, we had a heated debate on an issue that got my professor angry, as unfortunately, most of our elders cannot stand contradictory views from their students. It should not be surprising for a person like me (who has been practically involved in journalism since almost a decade) to express my views straightforwardly. Our respectable professor wanted me to accept his point of view that “war is the only way to bring peace”. He supported the old American notion by presenting the historical fact that America got independence as a result of the Revolutionary War.
Before the American War of Independence (1775 – 1783), the colonies did not want to be taxed without representation. Hence, the war started in the North American continent between the 13 united former British colonies and Great Britain. It finished in a global war between several European great powers.
My view (which may have supported the British Empire) was based on the rejection of the war. I argued that war vanished 13 colonies, costed a lot financially, resulted in the loss of an unknown number of lives, and, eventually, the outbreak of disease claimed more lives than the actual battle. I was not convinced with the idea of war, even if it was for a good cause. I just hate any idea of destruction.
Our respectable professor is among those teachers who want to suppress minds. He told me to leave the hall immediately because he thought I was influencing other students, as a result of which, the debate entered into the Iraq war issue. This took place during the twilight of the Bush administration in the US, and prior to Obama’s presidency.
I was supporting Obama’s views, quoting the speech he delivered on October 2, 2002, at the first high-profile anti-Iraq war rally in Chicago. He gave a thumbs down to ‘dumb wars’, saying, “So for those of us who seek a more just and secure world for our children, let us send a clear message to the president today. You want a fight, President Bush? Let’s finish the fight with Bin Laden and Al-Qaeda, through effective, coordinated intelligence, and a shutting down of the financial networks that support terrorism, and a homeland security program that involves more than color-coded warnings.”
Furthermore, he said, “You want a fight, President Bush? Let’s fight to make sure that the UN inspectors can do their work, and that we vigorously enforce a non-proliferation treaty, and that former enemies and current allies like Russia safeguard and ultimately eliminate their stores of nuclear material, and that nations like Pakistan and India never use the terrible weapons already in their possession, and that the arms merchants in our own country stop feeding the countless wars that rage across the globe.”
I left the hall as it was my duty to respect the order of my respectable teacher, but I kept supporting the notion of peace. At present, we see that President Obama is opening the doors for peace and has declared that America will be ready to talk to the Taleban. American forces are prepared to make overtures to the moderate Taleban commanders using an approach that saw insurgents in Iraq turn against Al-Qaeda.
Why do we not think about peace dialogues? Are we crazy to think about war in this era of nuclear weapons? Today, wars can never bring positive revolutions. Instead they only bring disasters to humanity. It is time that each and every atomic power in the world should sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) to secure all dangerous nuclear weapons and materials for a worldwide peace, including countries in South Asia. India and Pakistan should sign the treaty together in a ‘peace ceremony’. Moreover, it should also be considered that the ratification of the CTBT by America and Israel will trigger other ‘non-ratifiers.’
Besides the signing of the CTBT, peace and prosperity in South Asia can be achieved by completing the peace process of India and Pakistan. The diplomatic efforts of composite dialogues between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir problem should be effectively, practically and seriously addressed. The 26/11 Mumbai attack was indeed a gruesome incident in the world’s history that spoiled the important five-year-long peace talks.
However, a ray of hope has emerged again as Prime Minister of Pakistan, Yousaf Raza Gilani, and Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, are meeting today in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. Every peace loving person is wishing for the resumption of a back channel peace process in the same tacit way that had once started during Pervez Musharraf’s time, giving us hopes of a peaceful solution for Kashmir.
India is willing to meet Pakistan “more than half way” if it cleans up militants that it blames for the Mumbai attacks. In response, Pakistan is also aiming to make keen efforts. But, it would be unproductive to merely talk about the blamed militants while neglecting the Kashmir issue which is linked with the fundamental rights of more than 17 million Kashmiri people.
India and Pakistan have had many rounds of talks earlier as well. They have failed to make effective development on core issues. Indeed, the terrorists’ network should be uprooted effectively from both the countries and the people of Jammu and Kashmir should also be a part of the peace process for a satisfactory solution.
America needs to pay heed to the Kashmir issue in order to get rid of terrorism as well as to win the war in Afghanistan. Talks are the best solution to bring peace, but these should just not be mere talks. Peace needs agreements, treaties, bonds, will and honesty.
The consequences of war are terrible and the sacrifices are untold. Nonviolent measures are the only solution for a peaceful world today. – SG
Pakistan Invites Malaysian Companies to Construct Small and Medium Dams
The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) of Pakistan invites Malaysian Companies to constructs 32 small / medium dams in Pakistan.
The Member (Water) WAPDA, in a letter addressed to the High Commission for Pakistan in Malaysia, has invited the Malaysian Companies having experience in building Dams to build 13 Dams in the Phase-I in various parts of Pakistan, either alone, or as joint ventures with local and International investors and contractors.
The Member (Water) WAPDA, in a letter addressed to the High Commission for Pakistan in Malaysia, has invited the Malaysian Companies having experience in building Dams to build 13 Dams in the Phase-I in various parts of Pakistan, either alone, or as joint ventures with local and International investors and contractors.