The Media’s Missing Conscience

A journalist is obligated to spread the true information to the targeted audience. On the other hand, biased reporting or getting indulged in cheap practice of sensationalizing/hyping sends the misleading messages to the general public and all concerned; hence depriving the audience of their right to true information. Probably, there is connivance or manipulative strategy at work to divert public opinion for any unknown motive.This time around, Declan Walsh (New York Times) wrote an article apparently pressuring/maligning the Pakistani IT company AXACT. In the past, he was expelled due to false journalism against Pakistan and for violating his terms of stay by visiting prohibited areas without permission. The report says that the journalist has, overtime, produced inaccurate and defamatory pieces about Pakistan. High-profile expulsion: Declan Walsh declared persona non grata. http://tribune.com.pk/story/571671/high-profile-expulsion-declan-walsh-declared-persona-non-grata/. Amazingly, Pakistan didn’t sue New York Times for damages despite the clear case of slander/libel for false reporting on Pakistan.
Maybe, AXACT is being victimized by the rival TV channels that are afraid of BOL TV channel. What’s going to be accepted as truth remains a mystery.

Back to AXACT: Was Pakistani media really too shy or too scared to break this story to Pakistani audience? Most probably, they were.

Pre-emptive strike: It seems as if Axact is being targeted, and the red hot issue is being exploited because of their BOL channel launch.

Nevertheless, AXACT contends, it’s only responsible to check if university or school is legitimate in that specific country. Axact clearly states: We give no degrees real or fake since it has nothing to do with us. AXACT claims it has been involved in providing technical support to the educational institutions around the World. Mr Shoaib of (AXACT) maintains, we only provide services to universities.

It means that Axact is only responsible to check if that particular university or school is legitimate in that specific country. The AXACT big shots clearly state: We give no degrees real or fake since, it has nothing to do with us.

But the AXACT admits to being involved in providing technical support to the educational institutions around the World. While going through the whole website, one finds valuable information to substantiate AXACT’s point of view on the puzzle.

In a statement Axact called the allegations "baseless, substandard, maligning [and] defamatory" and threatened legal action against the New York Times.

The allegations have drawn attention in Pakistan as Axact has a high-profile media arm preparing to launch a TV news channel and publications in English and Urdu.

In other words, the real problem seems to be the BOL TV’s offer of much higher wages and benefits package attracting the media workers of other channels, Most of all, BOL TV employees would own the channel as share holders.

Axact's offices in Karachi were also raided as part of the investigation. The FIA (Federal Investigation Agency) has found no proof against AXACT. Mr. Shoab has visited FIA centre and has categorically denied of selling degrees.  The FIA officers are still clueless.

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan ordered the probe after the New York Times published its report on Sunday. The Minister said, we will seek help from FBI, and Interpole.

Negative Perception: The AXACT is selling Fake degrees. However, Axact’s boss mentioned during “Off the Record talk show with Kashif Abbasi” that they were providing services to online universities to use Axact's system as course management, student management etc., which also included providing services to online universities to print and give degree to students on behalf of university. He suggests that those, who do not have a clue about the online services being offered there, need to learn and find out more. There are thousands of companies and individuals out there offering these services as well as there are many businesses in the West offering essay/thesis writing services. It is not a crime in those countries. Same goes for online degrees. It is not illegal to issue a degree that is not accredited and is based upon work experience. Their side of the story is quite the opposite of the one they are being accused of. Fortunately, there are no charges yet.

Six AXACT directors have already been interrogated and more investigation is ongoing. Government of Pakistan is in touch with British authorities to find further material -information if any.

Bad thing is the Media has destroyed the whole company without any proof; Government has put pressures on their employees, journalists to leave that company. That’s a disgrace the country has to suffer. How can we expect foreign investment if Pakistan suffers another setback adding to its already tarnished image?

Caution: Journalism being one of the noblest professions provides tools to professionally handle the information in its true form in the proper context regardless of race, culture or creed. And, there is no room for bias and dishonesty. Crime reporting and investigative reporting are all subject to legal and ethical limits indeed.

Globally and locally, there is an urgent need of eliminating the “non-genuine” students; it can be done by identifying real students. As fake degrees violate the rights of hard working real students, the united nation must put a ban on such non-genuine educational institutions worldwide to protect the students with talent. http://www.geteducated.com/college-degree-mills/204-fake-agencies-for-college-accreditation. One may go through the following List of Fake College Degree Accreditation Agencies.

Also, make sure if the university is accredited to offer degree or diploma program by the relevant authorities.

The government of Pakistan must play smart to deal with this national issue of international importance.

Update:
Since thousands of fake degrees of various bogus universities, diplomas and
student cards were found and seized, the Federal Investigation Agency
lodged a fraud and forgery case against the Axact CEO Shoaib Shaikh and
others on Wednesday. There is confirmation of the registration of the FIR
under sections 420, 468 and 471 of the Pakistan Penal Code (fraud and
forgery charges.
The big shots are in custody now.

If proven guilty, AXACT will add to Pakistan’s misery.

When national honor is at stake, the frustration is wide spread.

Let’s wait till the dust settles.

SOURCES: The Hindu, nation.com.pk, dawn.com, bbc.com, ARY, ZEM TV

http://tribune.com.pk/story/888328/fake-diplomas-real-cash-pakistani-company-axact-reaps-millions/

Oops! Alberta Shifts to the Left

Oops! Alberta Shifts to the Left

Alberta NDP premier-designate Rachel Notley and her orange wave actually decimated the province’s 44-year-old Progressive Conservative dynasty which forced its leader Jim Prentice to resign from politics.

The province of Alberta enjoyed capitalistic economy for almost eight decades non-stop with ups and downs, indeed.

The outgoing premier Prentice was busy raising taxes and the other costs for Albertans with no acceptable justification.

With her good sense of public feelings, Ms. Rachel Notley did her campaigning excellently. Moreover, hundreds of thousands of people from across the country and from around the world settled there in Alberta who facilitated the recent switching from the Right to the Leftist party founded on socialistic ideology. This is a case of shifting away from capitalism. Many of the new settlers were fed up because of poor delivery by the dysfunctional PC government. Obviously, the frustrated Albertans needed a regime change, so they did.

With the NDP in power, the socio-economic and the political landscape of this province are in the re-positioning mode. The business community can’t be as happy as is general public; reason is simple - social benefits and reduced taxes. But there are consequences in the form of capital flight and decreased investment resulting in low or no revenue.

Economics based on promises and Taxation: The NDP has promised to raise the corporate tax rate to 12 per cent, increase taxes on the highest-income earners and review the province’s oil and gas royalties program, among many other elements in its platform.

Other perception: The outgoing PC Leader claims his party has a completely different vision from the NDP; he is highly uncomfortable with the “NDP Plan,” as that could be ruining the economy. He is entitled to his opinion.

The fact: NDP always supports big, unionized business.

Furthermore, there has been a long history of failed pipeline diplomacy, but NDP majority means it’s back to the pipeline drawing board. Ms. Notley favours domestic refining and more stringent environmental controls in the oil sands. She is also supportive of some export schemes over others. She has pledged to tone down Alberta’s lobbying efforts for long-stalled pipeline proposals.

Nevertheless, the shocked investors showed less enthusiasm, dumping their oil and gas stocks.

Good thing is Ms Notley is socially progressive but fiscally responsible leader similar to the former Manitoba premier Gary Doer who led his province to a decade of balanced budgets.

 “For the business community, Rachel Notley’s influences first and foremost will be other prairie NDP governments, in terms of reaching out to the business community and creating a prosperous environment,” says Brad Lavigne, a former campaign director for the federal NDP who now works for Hill+Knowlton.

“Already on her first day following the election, she had one message and that was to the business community, and it was that she seeks a collaborative relationship. That’s consistent with what she said throughout the campaign.”

“To the extent an approach on pipelines could be augmented by a climate change policy that works for both industry and governmental interests, it may well cast Alberta in a more favourable light with respect to potential pipeline development, even up to and including Keystone XL.”

The NDP’s other campaign promises including plans to implement a twelve percent increase in corporate taxes, plans to boost the minimum wage to $15 per hour, a proposal to launch a review of energy royalty rates, and plans to increase homegrown refining of bitumen are likely to remain highly contentious, provided, the  oil prices stay low.

Environmentalists aren’t likely to change their tune on pipeline projects, even with a charismatic, socially progressive NDP premier leading Alberta. The opposition to pipelines here includes greenhouse gas emissions from the oil-sands, opposition to oil companies, native fears of spills into salmon streams.

There is a need of thriving business climate, getting the highest prices for our resources, the best wages possible for our citizens, the best healthcare, the best education, of course!

The corporate sector exists to undertake business to make a profit. In doing so it generates wealth which makes taxes possible, hire employees, and pay their wages.

The voting Albertans did not realize that they went too far to the left this time risking the smoothness of the corporate world which is essential to economic vitality.

And, they can do some damage control by voting for the Federal Liberals in October. The liberals are known for staying in the middle lane accommodating social programs as well as looking after the corporate vital signs.

Fact is the trade unions don’t support the Liberals and have a mindset to always campaign against the PCs.

Let’s get back to Alberta provincial election which had nothing to do with Harper or Mulcair or Trudeau.

No doubt, the Albertan People were fed up with the PC government and opted for change, and the Notley NDPs were there to take advantage of the available opportunity.

Since the NDP is more for social programs, it ends up being highly costly with insufficient or no funds. The rise in cases of bankruptcies and liquidations is normal.

Good luck Alberta!

For Notley, this convincing majority is a gift, she carried a message of hope, renewal and positive change, and Albertans responded for the change of status quo.

Questions: What if the corporations pull back from this province, would this help job creation? No way!

In Nutshell: The New Democrats have promised significant investments in health care and education, to establish city charters. hike corporate taxes and provincial income-tax rates for high earners, freeze post-secondary tuition fees, expand public home care, and introduce school lunch programs for kids in low-income households.

If the NDP fulfils its promise of balanced budget by 2018, that will be great.

Surely, Nutley’s popularity will depend heavily on restoring Alberta’s struggling economy back to health.



Sources:

http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/canadian-politics/electorate-anger-against-alberta-pcs-combined-with-strong-ndp-campaign-brought-end-to-dynasty

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Lamphier+Jury+what+means+business/11047803/story.htmlglamphier@edmontonjournal.com

https://ca.news.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/alberta/alberta-election-ndp-win-gary-mason/article24270855

                                 

A Strategic Game Changer

With hardship comes ease: Hopefully, Pakistan is poised for good economic times ahead: It has Saudi Arabia and China as reliable allies. The fact is both China and Saudi Arabia are also strategically important to each other. No doubt, China being “an all weather friend of Pakistan” wants to further strengthen its existing relationship through investing there heavily in pursuit of long-term gain. The recent CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) agreements clearly show China’s intent to deepen its ties with Pakistan in the long run. There is an unprecedented state of joy after the successful conclusion of the Chinese president’s visit. Investment of over $46 billion in the energy sector, infrastructure and the projected economic corridor can be a real game changer in the making. The huge Chinese investment is indicative of Pakistan’s sovereignty is safe from all pressures.

Unpleasant facts:

Firstly, Pakistani people welcome the above said investment but it’s painful for them to learn that some members of the elite class of Pakistan have deposited a huge sum totalling around $97 billion in the Swiss banks. Even the ruling elite (current and the former) have deposits in London banks and Dubai banks as well. Most of the money belongs to the national exchequer of Pakistan. Upon re-investing all such money back in Pakistan instead, would serve the interests of Pakistan for sure.

Secondly, discriminating against provinces set a bad example: During the state visit of Chinese president, taking only the Chief Minister Punjab on board while ignoring all other chief ministers altogether is unfair; this sets a bad example. The silly ruling elite are responsible for the resulted irritation, indeed.

Good News: Democratic thoughts are taking over; the security threats against Pakistan are dying down.

And, there is another positive development: The Supreme Court ordered LG polls have been conducted transparently. All of this gives a real boost to the current government.

Furthermore, China’s partnership with Pakistan is said to be hinging on the assumption that there would remain calm from now on; that would open doors for smoother business.

Chinese want smooth sailing through this route while earning profit on their money. The burden of maintaining long-term order clearly lies with Pakistan.

Pak re-positioning:

The fact is Pakistan security forces are already too engaged on many fronts to make Pakistan fully secured from all internal and external threats.

As said above, President Xi Jinping visited Pakistan with huge investment to build an economic corridor from Western China to the Persian Gulf. The Sharifs promised Xi that Pakistan would create a new special division of the Pakistani Army to protect Chinese workers in Pakistan. A special security division consisting of 10,000 troops including 5000 SSG commandos. There are no troops for Saudi Arabia at this time.

Of course, Pakistan’s handling of Yemen factor did irk Saudi Arabia initially, however, Pakistan’s re-assurance eased tension as Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the army chief Raheel Sharif visited Riyadh for a timely damage control. Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia has rightly realized that even close allies often have other priorities.

The PM Pakistan and Pak army Chief had to fly to Saudi Arabia to explain to the Saudis why Pakistan won't join the war in Yemen.

The corridor: The importance of long awaited development can’t be over emphasized. Certainly, the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)[a] is a development megaproject that aims to connect Gwadar Port in southwestern Pakistan to China’s northwestern autonomous region ofXinjiang, via a network of Highways, Railwaysand pipelines to transport oil and gas.[1]"Pakistan-China friendship is higher than the mountains, deeper than the oceans, sweeter than honey, and stronger than steel." [14]

Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post has described the project in an editorial as the most significant and far-reaching project China has ever put forward. It seeks to expand the Chinese economy by first creating mega project construction opportunities for Chinese firms and then by spreading out markets for its manufactured goods. The plan is to accelerate growth in China’s western regions and then integrate China’s markets with Eurasia, the Middle East and Africa.

Its one component, the Silk Road Economic Belt would connect Western China to Central Asia and Europe overland, while the other, the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road would substantiate the link between Chinese seaports and the Middle East, Africa and the Mediterranean.

Two kinds of projects are to be implemented under the proposed economic corridor:

A - Infrastructure projects (Gwadar Port, KKR highway, road and rail development (government to government).

B - The 10,000MW of power projects, (most of them to be sponsored by private Pakistani companies).

Chinese state companies do possess a“demonstrated ability” to execute the infrastructure projects efficiently on time.

Security situation: Pakistan Army will provide dedicated security.

The fear: Pak bureaucratic incompetence or corruption may hinder the implementation of these projects.

Benefits: The successful implementation of the economic corridor projects would create ancillary opportunities and benefits as follows:

1.     Energy availability would revive existing industries, such as textiles, to full production and add an estimated 2 percent to Pakistan’s GDP growth.

2.     The improved transportation network would accelerate and expand internal and external trade.

3.     The areas adjacent to the corridor would become attractive locations for manufacturing, agricultural and services industries. Small and medium enterprises included as special beneficiaries.

4.     Employment and economic growth would expand significantly.

The Chinese commitment to the economic corridor has created a significant opportunity for Pakistan to revive its economic and political stability leading to its renewed international image.

Most of the Pakistanis are on the same page with the government for having made a strategic calculation to go all the way with China on this path of prosperity. It is a step in the right direction that can potentially shake regional politics making enough room for geo economics.

________________________________________________

SOURCES:

www.Dawn.com, www.thenews.com,pk,www.nation.com.pk http://www.wantchinatimes.com/news-subclass-       cnt.aspx?id=20150426000082&cid=1101, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China%E2%80%93Pakistan_Economic_Corridor
www.brookings.edu/blogs/order-fromchaos/posts/2015/04/22pakistani-pivot-riedel

Over-reacting to Pak Decision, Not Justified

Yemen is at war with itself, but the vested interests are at play exploiting the sectarian card; cashing in on the “well tailored Shiites-Sunni divide.” The stakeholders, however, fail to realize that war is not a video game; it kills innocent civilians indiscriminately (as a collateral damage). In the current case, the death toll may be far higher than the UNclaim of 736 killed and 2,700 injured - civilians and rebels combined since 26 March.

The problem is Yemen’s dispute has not been fully addressed at the UN level, as they deserve to exercise right of self determination and voting.

Unimaginably, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries are over-demanding, they don’t care about Pakistan’s fragile democracy, yet the fact is that the Pak Parliament has rightly passed resolution with regard to participating in the war of Arabs. When would the Arabs learn “the economically injured Pakistan” is already at war with the FATA militants, the BLA separatists and the foreign funded militancy? Despite the challenges, Pakistan confirms its willingness to protect Saudi Arabia.

Nevertheless, if Saudi Arabia is in a mood to fight the Yemeni local rebels, and if Iran arms them, there would be a huge devastation. That’s why, a UN resolution was necessary to de-escalate tensions in the Mid-Eastern region.

Over-reaction is disappointing: The UAE minister’s implied threat to Pakistan was serious one. Pakistan parliament passed a resolution unanimously calling for maintaining neutrality in the Yemen conflict playing a proactive diplomatic role to end the crisis inferring no Pak military involvement in Yemen as requested by Saudi Arabia. The minister warned Pakistan that it would pay a “high price” for its “ambiguous stand.” The Fact is the UAE and other Gulf countries are supporting millions of workers from countries like India, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Nepal, Sri Lanka etc. who outnumber Pakistani workers in almost each country in the Gulf. Yet none of these countries have been approached for military and logistic support in the current Yemen crisis.

The UAE minister needs to know Iran has a common border with Pakistan. Why would Pakistan create hostilities with another neighbor on its western border? India on its eastern border has always been hostile towards Pakistan.

It is estimated that more than three million Pakistani nationals are working in GCC countries and they are remitting about US.1.5 billion dollars per month to Pakistan. If GCC countries decided to expel all Pakistani nationals, it will cause huge economic hardship for Pakistan.

When work visas get issued, the other nations are given preference over Pakistan. Those countries get billions of dollars in remittances from their workers, with Pakistan just getting a fraction. Pakistanis are a nation that never forgets its good friends. The Pakistan government has not backed out and has committed that if the territorial integrity of S Arabia is threatened, it will act

Saudi and Iran proxies and some others from amongst the various warring factions are aggressively active for certain purposes including winning sphere of influence.

Pakistan is genuinely trying to bring a peaceful solution to the crisis through diplomatic means, a move that should be appreciated.

The Saudis have been re-assured by pointing out that it was a strategic ally: That Pakistan was committed to the sanctity of the two Holy Mosques and Saudi sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability; and that Pakistan would stand by the Saudis. Pak Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the territorial security of its allies while stressing for a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the Yemen conflict. Of course, Pakistan will respond to “friends’ genuine demands,” it wants to see an end to hostilities in the region.

PM Nawaz Sharif’s “policy statement on Yemen,” was interpreted as a formal clarification after last Friday’s parliamentary resolution which provoked a hostile response from a UAE minister. Most probably, it was Pak PM’s fault who over-committed himself in his royal visit when the Saudi king himself received him at the tarmac.

Finally, "the UN Security Council resolution targets Abdul Malik al-Houthi and two other senior rebel leaders, Abd al-Khaliq al-Houthi and Abdullah Yahya al-Hakim, as well as Mr Saleh and his eldest son Ahmed, a former commander of the elite Republican Guard force. Ahmed Saleh is the former commander of Yemen's elite Republican Guard. The embargo also applies to "those acting on their behalf or at their direction in Yemen."

The Security Council also imposed a global asset freeze and travel ban on Abdul Malik al-Houthi and Ahmed Saleh. The resolution demanded that the Houthis withdraw from areas they have seized, including the capital Sanaa, and resume negotiations on the democratic transition begun in 2011 when Ali Abdullah Saleh was forced to hand over power to Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi following mass protests. Resolution was passed by 14 votes to nil.

Conclusion:

Pakistani decisions through the national assembly are particularly based on national interest and aspirations to respect the nations and their 'integrity and sovereignty.'

Arab Monarchs must understand that Pakistanis give their blood and sweat to build and maintain the Gulf States on low wages.

Post cease fire, the Yemeni citizens should be facilitated under the UN umbrella to vote on merit for a new government that governs the Yemenis on equality basis.

In the interest of regional peace, Saudi Arabia and Iran must bridge the gap between them.

Pakistan’s approach to foreign policy, especially in the GCC and Middle East needs an overhaul.

Indeed, fruits of preventive diplomacy are countless.

Sources: Wikipedia, Reuter, khaleej times, BBC, nation.com.pk, dawn.com, thenews.com, arabnews.com

Extinguishing Yemen Fire

Yemen is strategically located on the Bab al-Mandab strait (a narrow waterway linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden) through which much of the world's oil shipments pass. The Arab countries and Saudi Arabia fear a “Houthi takeover” would threaten free passage through the strait. The Houthis are members of a rebel group, also known as Ansar Allah (Partisans of God), who adhere to a branch of Shia Islam known as Zaidism. And, Zaidis make up one-third of the population and ruled North Yemen under a system known as the imamate for almost 1,000 years until 1962.
The Houthis take their name from Hussein Badr al-Din al-Houthi. He led the group's first uprising in 2004 in an effort to win greater autonomy for their heartland of Saada province, and also to protect Zaidi religious and cultural traditions from perceived encroachment by Sunni Islamists.

Yemenis tried their best to avoid war by offering avenues for a peaceful agreement, but the Houthi terrorists continued with their campaign to control the cities of Yemen.
According to source, “When the Iran backed-Houthis were on the verge of taking control of Aden, the legitimate government’s call to intervene under Article 51 of the UN had to be heeded.”
In the ongoing battle for sphere of influence in the region, Saudi Arabia wants to stop any rise of Iranian influence across the Middle East. Also, the Arabs are looking up to Saudi Arabia to effectively confront Iran’s expansionist designs in the region. While Riyadh had been working along with other like-minded states in a peaceful way to prevent unnecessary escalation. Nevertheless, the Iranian leaders thought that they could destabilize Yemen, change the balance of power in the Gulf region, and get away with it.

Amid the current chaos, Islamabad has hinted at calling upon the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to play a role to end the conflict in Yemen. The 57-member OIC, which is often criticised for its ineffectiveness, is dominated by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, Malaysia and Iran.
Saudi Government had already put forward a formidable coalition to reverse the gains of the Iranian-backed Houthis and to hit them hard so that they understand that their actions are intolerable. The ongoing action against Iran’s proxy is intended to make Iran change its course, as Iran instructed the Houthis to drive all of their Sunni opponents out of politics and to control Yemen.
The Saudi-led “Operation Decisive Storm” is not only targeting the Houthi rebels but also Iran’s ambitions of expansion in the region.
Supported by the International law, the military intervention in Yemen did not begin until all other attempts to stop the Houthi rebels from taking over Yemen had been exhausted.

A 10-nation, Saudi-led coalition is currently carrying out air strikes against rebels in Yemen.
The strikes are in support of President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, who fled after gains by the Shia Houthi rebels.
Furthermore, Arab League chief said, “the Saudi-led offensive against the Houthis would continue until the militia withdraws and surrenders its weapons."
The main fight is between forces loyal to the beleaguered President, Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and those allied to Zaidi Shia rebels known as Houthis, who forced Mr Hadi to flee the capital Sanaa in February.

Yemen's security forces have split loyalties; some units back Mr Hadi, and others are with the Houthis and Mr Hadi's predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh, who has remained politically influential. Mr Hadi is also supported in the predominantly Sunni south of the country by militia known as Popular Resistance Committees and local tribesmen.
After rebel forces closed in on the president's southern stronghold of Aden in late March, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia responded to a request by Mr Hadi to intervene and launched air strikes on Houthi targets.

The conflict between the Houthis and the elected government is also seen as part of a “regional power struggle” between Shia Iran and Sunni Saudi Arabia, which shares a long border with Yemen.
Gulf Arab states have accused Iran of backing the Houthis financially and militarily, though Iran has denied this.
President Hadi, who is recognised as Yemen's legitimate leader by the international community, managed to escape to Aden, which he declared the de facto capital.
Cautious Pakistani resistance to the idea of getting involved in Yemen or even on Saudi soil is in the headlines all over.

However, Pakistan (recipient of 17 billion dollars from the KSA) owes a lot to Saudi Arabia in times of military needs. Yet, at the same time, Islamabad has to maintain its neighborly relations with Tehran.
Whatever the case maybe, it is time for the Pakistani government to publicly and clearly set out what it is and is not willing to do in Yemen or on behalf of Saudi Arabia and on what terms and for which reasons.

Available options:
If Saudi Arabia is under threat, Pakistan cannot stay neutral, however, the best option is to act defensively staying inside the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, because the Houthi rebels are Muslims who respect Mecca and Medina too, and there is very slim chance that they will even get closer to these places.
Pakistan should send a delegation to Iran and try to help end this conflict by acting as a neutral umpire.
Saudi Arabia should stop dragging Pakistan into their hate club against Iran! Pakistan should stay neutral and discourage a war between Shias and Sunnis.
The Houthi militants need to understand that they are Yemenis in the first place. At the end, it is in their best interest to reach a political solution.
=======================================================================
Resources:
www.wikipedia.com, www.dawn.com, www.arabnews.com, www.bbc.com,www.nation.com.pk,www.thenews.com.pk

Is ‘Karachi-Terrorism’ Nose-diving?

Pakistani born Altaf Hussain (Altaf Bhai) founded an ethnic political party called “Muhajir Qaumi Movement” in the mid eighties. The party mainly comprised of Urdu speaking community. Later on, party name was altered to “Muthidda Qaumi Movement.”
Members of the “migrant-community” are normally coerced to follow their master Altaf bhai’s commands.
The manipulative MQM loves to be onboard with all ruling parties.
Karachi Criminal Cases:
Amid his politics of ethnicity and fear, Altaf Bhai was severely involved in committing atrocities on human lives by running his own private jail with torture cell in Karachi.
According to a press release, the accused Umair Siddiqui also revealed that a former deputy convener of MQM’s coordination committee, Anis Qaimkhani, had presided over a meeting at Khursheed Begum Memorial Hall which was attended by former KTC in-charge Hammad Siddiqui, all sector-incharges and joint sector-incharges of the party. During the meeting in 2008, MQM's Deputy Convener Qaim khani allegedly directed to speed up targeted killings in the metropolis on ethnic/linguistic basis.
Pak Media seems to be gutless when it comes to paint true picture of Altaf Bhai and the MQM. All TV channels feel coerced to cover his telephonic addresses from London.
On the contrary, PTI chairman blames Altaf Bhai for inciting violence and soliciting murder after the May 2007 riot in Karachi.
Furthermore, Altaf Bhai benefited from the NRO (national reconciliation ordinance 2009) and had all his 3576 charges and cases of corruption dropped.
In 1999, General Musharraf disclosed that Altaf Hussain had received funding from India for terrorism.Altaf is also accused of inciting violence in Karachi after his party's leader Zahra Shahid Hussain was killed on 18 May 2013.A detained MQM member confessed of having committed target killings over political rivalry in the city and named a Muttahida office bearer involved in 2012 Baldia Town fire killing 258 factory workers.
Umair Siddiqui had formed a 23-member “Target Killers Squad” on the directives of former in-charge of MQM’s Karachi Tanzeemi Committee (KTC), Hammad Siddiqui - which killed around 120 people on political grounds. It was also confessed that approximately 250-300 target killers reside, or are in hiding, in the neighborhoods surrounding the MQM headquarters. Umair was among dozens of Muttahida Qaumi Movement affiliates arrested on March 11 when Rangers conducted a raid at the party’s headquarters, called 90 (Nine Zero).
London Criminal Cases: In 1991, MQM chief escaped to London amid violence in Karachi and sought asylum and became a British citizen in 2002.
Sadly, in September 2010, one of the founding members of the MQM, Imran Farooq, was murdered in northwest London. British police raided the MQM office in connection with this case in 2012. On 20 June 2013 a Metropolitan Police team investigating Imran Farooq's murder raided Altaf bhai's house and spent 55 hours in searching through.
Pictures of two Pakistanis allegedly involved in his assassination were finally released in 2014; they are in protective custody of Pak authorities and will be handed over to Scotland yard when requested.
Secondly, London's Metropolitan Police started a money-laundering probe against Altaf after they recovered money from his house in searches in December 2012 and June 2013. On 3 June 2014 he was arrested in London on charges of money-laundering following a raid by Metropolitan Police at his residence and office. He was released on bail on 6 June 2014.
Weapons: A dealer in Quetta procures weapons for MQM's armed wing. The MQM’s member confessed to buying 40 Kalashnikovs, 8 LMGs, 1 rocket launcher, 6 G3s, 5 China rifles and 3 MGs, 8 LMGs, one rocket-launcher. During investigation, it came to light that following the raids and operations by law enforcement personnel in the city, all sector in-charges were instructed by the party to withdraw their excess weapons at the party headquarters, Nine-Zero. The weapons were transported to some other place from various locations through Ambulance Service.
Rigged 2013 elections: As ordered by Umair Siddiqui 60 to 70 MQM workers in Gulistan-e-Johar managed to cast fake votes in favour of MQM candidate Faisal Subzwari at the polling stations in the Maymar sector. As alleged, the presiding officers were called to the sector office and were made to agree to fake balloting. And, 15-20 boxes filled with fake ballots were given to the presiding officers.
Other Serious Questions:
(1) Why did Altaf Bhai disgrace national flag at the tomb of Mr. Jinnah (Mazaar e Qaaid)?
(2) How can he be a patriotic Pakistani, as he strongly apologized to audience in India for the 1947 creation of Pakistan?
(3) Why is he still maintaining his emotional alliance with India?
Turning point:
Former DG Rangers Lt-Gen Rizwan Akhtar, who, on account of his experience in dealing with the city’s inner working, had a deep insight into Karachi’s many complexities. Now, the Rangers have evolved into a fairly autonomous entity with its own intelligence gathering and urban counterterrorism units.
Currently, Gen. Rizwan has better understanding with the federal government and an exceptionally healthy equation with Army Chief General Raheel Sharif, therefore, he has made his plans of defanging Karachi’s powerful war-lords with a long-term super effective policy.
Saulat Mirza death row prisoner whose death warrant is currently on hold - should remain in protective custody till all truth is verified. He has significant material evidence to substantiate case against the embattled MQM and its leadership.
This time, it’s a different ballgame. Laws have been amended. Legal loopholes have been plugged.
The combination of Rangers, Pak Army and the “constitutional amendment 21” empowering the military courts is a good news for the country bad news for MQM and all other Terrorist organizations involved in proxy war against Pakistan, indeed.
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SOURCES:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altaf_Hussainarynews.com
nation.com.pk
thenews.com.pk
dawn.com

Vulnerable Muslim Community Deserves Respect

Beyond doubt, the ongoing climate of “hatred and fear” targeting Muslims is injurious to the good image of Canada. Anti Muslim attitude has been developing aggressively for some time followed by no corrective action from the government. Shamefully, there are those who are openly involved in Muslim bashing, while some are constantly busy working behind the scenes to manufacture maximum hatred against Canadians with Muslim names. But, the practising Muslims are the ones who are hit hard; this negative fact is bound to endanger the well established reputation of Canada.

Most probably, manufacturing Islamophobia offers a profitable business to many. However, the cost seems to be too high in terms of rising discrimination and bias against the Muslims at the workplaces.
The frustrated victims are already complaining about a “fishy odor” coming from the ongoing cultivation of Islamophobia. And, momentum, of course, continues to be building up.

So debating over the issue of veil or head scarf is merely aimed at diverting the people’s attention.
The rising anti-Muslim sentiment makes the Muslim community very vulnerable.
Hostile environment continues to get poisoned 24/7 by some undeclared stakeholders and beneficiaries. In other words, the manipulative industry seems to have some motives and interests.
The number of Islamophobes is on the rise, because the biased media spreads misinformation on regular basis to make the entire Muslim community look like the real culprits for every incident.
However, the good Muslims in the view of the Islamophobs are the moderates, liberated and the ordinary ones who are only yes-persons.

Why are the Canadians and Quebecois being encouraged to have an anti-Muslim sentiment? Doesn’t it amount to fueling/fanning the anti Muslim fire?
Digging deeper, one may find the purpose of anti-Muslim propaganda which seems to be maintaining a constant climate of fear. Also, a deliberate stirring up prejudice against Muslims for political advantage is well calculated. Conveniently, the created ‘Muslim-issues’ can easily be used to gain in the polls through distracting people's attention from real economic and social issues.
The fact is Muslims deserve to be treated with dignity and respect because they contribute to Canada immensely.

Furthermore, majority of Muslims are law-abiding citizens who adhere to the teachings of their faith based only on peace and justice. Hence, Islam becomes the fastest growing faith in the west. Muslims are not forcing anyone to convert, because it’s the logic that attracts others towards the religion of peace. The Quran was sent for the benefit of all Humankind including the believers indeed. The Quran (2:256) says: There is no compulsion in religion.285 The Right Way stands clearly distinguished from the wrong. Hence he who rejects the evil ones286 and believes in Allah has indeed taken hold of the firm, unbreakable handle. And Allah (Whom he has held for support) is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (2:257) Allah is the Guardian of those who believe, He brings them out of every darkness into light.287
(http://www.islamicstudies.info/tafheem.php?sura=2&verse=254&to=257)

The irony is the hate mongers tell Muslim Canadians to go back from where they come from without realizing that the entire country has been built by immigrants consisting of people of multi cultural/religious back grounds.
Religious and visible minorities experience racism, hatred bad mouthing and dirty comments, the same scenario currently is responsible for discomforting the Muslims who are being discriminated against on the basis of their religion.

Shockingly, the alarming trend has put the Muslims specifically in terrible situation even at the work places: Although, Human rights laws protect employees from being treated unfairly because of their sex, age, race, religion, or disability, yet the “anti Muslim virus” seems to be becoming airborne at a much faster pace than it was thought.

It’s about time that the Muslim workers should be aware of their legal rights by visiting Labour Program's Equality in the Workplace Web pages. All Canadians have the right to be treated fairly in workplaces free from discrimination. Remember! Canada has laws to protect workers from discrimination on the basis of color creed or ethnicity. A further read of the Employment Equity Act will be beneficial. Also, visit the Canadian Human Rights Commission Web site.
Section 15 - Equality Rights
1. Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.
2. Subsection (1) does not preclude any law, program or activity that has as its object the amelioration of conditions of disadvantaged individuals or groups including those that are disadvantaged because of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.
The Supreme Court of Canada has stated that the purpose of section 15 is to protect those groups who suffer social, political and legal disadvantage in society. Discrimination occurs where, for example, a person, because of a personal characteristic, suffers disadvantages or is denied opportunities available. At the same time as it protects equality, the Charter also allows for certain laws or programs that favour disadvantaged individuals or groups.

Endeavour to re-unite all communities:
The aggrieved Muslim community must handle the odds with grace and dignity to rid Canada of hatred and fear. Hopefully, one day we can all live in harmony and accept one another for who we are.
Repairing the wounded culture of understanding, reaching out to the marginalized members of society and working together to remove discrimination in all its forms are the keys for the common good of all. Certainly, we need to work and share together as Canadians. Media must show injustices against the rights of Muslim Canadians that are protected by the Charter. At the end of the day, Canada would continue to be place of acceptance and diversity.
It’s responsibility of the State to come up with more clear legislation so that judicial discretion is minimised in legal proceedings with regard to making equal rights available to all indiscriminately.
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SOURCES:
http://openarchive.acadiau.ca/cdm/printview/collection/HTheses/id/769/type/singleitem
http://www.islamicstudies.info/tafheem.php?sura=2&verse=254&to=257
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/handy-psychology-answers/201101/the-psychology-prejudice-and-racism
http://rabble.ca

Let's Grow as a Proud Nation

SPECIAL EDITION

Constantly, the people of Pakistan are being subjected/roughed up by a variety of mafia groups. Democracy is only the name of the game; there is power-mafia focused on political power, others include land mafia, and extortionist (Bhatta) mafia. Maybe, weakening the commercial hub is part of the strategy. Any unlawful wealth that these thugs generate ends up becoming their effective passport to enjoy respect, power and influence.
Tragedy is the miserable populace is inherently set up or is manipulated to continue remaining deprived of a good feel of the concept of nationhood. Sadly, the nation-building effort remains only in the books. Unless remedied, the concept of nationhood remains a misconception.

Most probably, people are driven strategically by the hidden hand to keep them divided along regional, ethnic, linguistic, and religious lines. So, expecting good results from bad harvest doesn’t make sense.
Unfortunately, the military/civil rulers of the past came to fix the wrongs but all disappeared leaving the status quo intact. And, the current rulers face governance challenges. Administrative paralysis is all time high.

Equality is missing: Major culprit is lack of equal opportunity of quality education to all regardless of ethnicity, colour, creed, or socio-economic level.
Shamefully, the ruling elite and religious leaders have exploited the banner of Islam to attain and retain power without ever trying to reform state and society in line with its egalitarian principles.
Issue of East Pakistan was mishandled by Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and the then Military Chief, and there is a lesson but it’s forgotten. No one seems to have learnt.

Moreover, there are vested interests, state or non state actors that are bent upon making Pakistan a sacrificial goat under all circumstances. They don’t want Pakistan to progress economically and Pakistan doesn’t know how to convince the international community about the rape it has been constantly subjected to.
After the projects of Kalabagh dam and Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline are shelved, the proposed “Pakistan-China economic corridor” faces criticism and opposition. This non sense political wrangling is detrimental to Pakistan.

Messing up will be costly: The $45 billion Pakistan-China Economic Corridor was termed as a flagship strategic cooperation project, a potential game changer in South Asia. If completed, the corridor would connect Gwadar with Chinese city of Kashgar through highways, rail link and oil-gas pipelines as expected, however, the uncertainty shrouds the mystery.

Pain in the neck: The political mafia knows every trick of the trade and loves dynastic politics. They manage very well using “clichés of democracy” as their best defence whenever they are challenged.
Though, they claim their commitment to genuine democracy, yet it’s best reflected in how they handle their political parties.
Actually, it’s nothing more than a fake democracy where civil politicians are apparently the worst dictators because they want their kids to inherit the party. In other words, democracy becomes the best revenge in their dictionary as it gives them an opportunity to further rob and plunder the wealth of this country. Not funny, but the sad part is that they find allies among the many good people who are part of media and civil-society organisations.

Constant attempts to undo Pakistan: Foreign sponsored terrorism as well as the sectarian differences have added fuel to the ongoing fire and all is blown out of proportion under state patronage. Definitely, it poses an existentialist threat to Pakistan.
Mr Jinnah said, “If we want to make this great State of Pakistan happy and prosperous we should wholly and solely concentrate on the well-being of the people, and especially of the masses and the poor... you are free- you are free to go to your temples mosques or any other place of worship in this state of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste or creed that has nothing to do with the business of the state... in due course of time Hindus will cease to be Hindus and Muslims will cease to Muslims- not in a religious sense for that is the personal faith of an individual- but in a political sense as citizens of one state” ._. Address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan, Karachi ...August 11, 1947*****

In response to Zarb e Azb, the terrorists are on a suicide bombing spree throughout the country, while the chief terrorist is hiding in Afghanistan.
Pakistan needs a tighter disciplinary policy to catch those involved in money laundering. Money laundering is a criminal offense and Switzerland is a signatory to the law as is Pakistan. If a Pakistani court can indict particular individuals, then Switzerland is bound to disclose the holdings. And, there is tons of misappropriated money deposited in UAE banks by the Pakistani rich elite, but irony is Pakistan government has no objection. There is no serious effort on the part of government to bring back money looted from the Pakistani exchequer.

Furthermore, politicians have huge amounts of deposits in the U.K., Switzerland and Dubai. Several billions in U.S. dollars means a lot. Pakistan will be saved from economic disaster if the loot is brought back using all legal channels.
In order to keep the country intact and put it back on track, the political leadership has to show some wisdom and think only what is in the best interest of the people of Pakistan. The gaps must be bridged to avoid disasters.
History has proof that the political differences between the two leaders culminated into the disintegration of Pakistan in 1971.
There is no doubt in my mind that building dams and roads is essential for economic development, but nation-building should be treated as priority before it’s too late.
For a stronger Pakistan, the federal government must address concerns of the smaller provinces by protecting their political and economic interests.
The foreign sponsored separatist insurgency in Balochistan has to be overcome for a smoother development.

A rapid development of Gwadar will give satisfaction to the local populace. The projected economic corridor must go ahead successfully till development in Gwadar is broadened.
Groundwork on the project has already begun, the federation of Pakistan must address any misconceptions surrounding it on priority basis. For Pakistan’s sustainable economic development needs, the politicians must refrain from helping the growth of negative hype around the Pak China project.
It’s imperative that the stakeholders are on single page to play their role in developing a national consensus for the economic corridor.

The Pakistani people are in need of a democracy that not only ensures fundamental rights and rule of law but also has inbuilt mechanisms where there is no such thing as defiance.
“With faith, discipline and selfless devotion to duty, there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve.” (Jinnah)

Journalism in North America

Journalism in North America
In the past, journalism used to be of sensational nature, however, that eventually developed into more literate and responsible organs.
Actually, the news papers gradually continued to be becoming larger and larger, whereby, advertising became more lucrative as a source of income. As the publishers and editors knew that the readers wanted current news based on facts, there came editorial independence giving new stature to the news function as well.
In modern time, newspapers are ready to be printed in one city and are simultaneously generated in other cities.
The Canadian example of mainstream media includes the Globe and Mail and the National Post (Toronto) among others; they are locally published/printed and they transmit all information verbatim by verbatim and line by line to printing plants in major cities across the country. Similarly, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal among others are active in the U.S.
The global newspapers of today include the “print editions” as well as the “online editions,” so do the North American daily newspapers, pod casts, interaction, multi-media, video, partnerships with broadcast, news databases, and email newsletter etc.
Like other countries, newspaper law covering matters of libel, contempt of court and copyright, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms were passed as part of the Canadian constitution in 1981; all this guarantees "freedom of thought, belief, opinion, expression, and freedom of media to all people.
Nevertheless, Canadian newspapers continue to face challenges and competition in their role as bearers of news in the information technology age. Despite the challenges, newspapers excellently keep up with performing the job of giving the people what they want to know with clarity.
In other words, there is a commitment of Canada's newspapers to operate in the public interest. A newspaper is a vital source of information and is a private business enterprise that serves the community with responsibility.
Freedom of Press is essential to the democratic society; it’s based on Canadian's right to freedom of expression available with guarantee through the Canadian “Charter of Rights and Freedoms.” It includes the right to collect and publicize information. It’s the “free press” that enables readers to use their Charter rights to receive information and make informed judgments on the current issues.
It means that the newspaper's primary obligation is trustworthiness towards the public good.
Gathering the truthful information for making part of news is expensive but is the only available option to utilize the credible sources with precision and accuracy.
Care must be taken when there is conflict of interest; it can’t be left undeclared.
Furthermore, the newspaper is obliged to protect its independence from the private and public sectors.
Ethically and legally speaking, only accurate and unbiased reporting is acceptable: Obviously, the newspaper keeps faith with readers by presenting only correct and up to date information.
All errors/mistakes should be reported and highlighted to maintain the trust of readers/audience.
The community newspapers are said to be of sound practice if there is clear distinction in news reporting along with expressions of opinion, and materials produced for and by the advertisers. Therefore, the altered images, if any, must be reported because people have right to know.
Other challenges: Community religious leaders including various associations tend to keep the newspaper editors and owners under pressure; they are interested in the coverage the way they want regardless of the consequences. In fact, controversial ads make the news paper editors/owners bend backward while looking for a way out. And no one seems to realize the free newspaper only can continue in business through putting ads in the paper in order to generate revenue.
No matter what, newspaper remains responsible to its readers, its shareholders, its employees and its advertisers, of course.
True, a newspaper plays a variety of roles for the civil society but building community opinion is the most important one. Despite the odds, editors strive hard to paint a representative picture of its diverse communities in order to encourage the expression of disparate views. At the same time, it has to be accessible and accountable to the readers of all kinds and levels.
Under all eventualities, respect is of paramount importance: The newspaper should strive to treat the people it covers with courtesy and fairness.
Modern Journalism faces a tough re-adjustment phase in response to the ongoing social, cultural and technological changes. Like it or not, journalists are beginning to leverage on social media to gather stories and are using news aggregators and subscribing to RSS feeds and blogs to assist them in their work. This means the challenged media continue to undergo drastic adjustment scenarios.
Furthermore, the publishers of weekly or bi weekly news papers. are people of courage, integrity, and tenacity as they stand against authority, community evils, national evils, international issues, and they take strong positions too in some cases.
Meanwhile, news managers and editors are concerned for Face book and Twitter as these sources are used for newsgathering especially during breaking news stories. But, there is some hesitancy in using social media ground to distribute content for fear of losing control of the information. No one can deny the possibility that social media seems to be changing things; it will surely bring about transparency, accountability and a broader range of voices and viewpoints.
The current tide of change is likely to bring about pressures on the need for more skills, and ability to respond quickly. This translates into compromised quality to ascertain the authenticity and verification of facts which can invite a serious handicap jeopardizing the flow of truthful information.
Surely, a journalist will soon have to have a good sense of whereabouts of the potential audience. They will have to figure out how to reach that audience whether they are online, in print, broadcast, mobile or social media platforms.
Hopefully, social media will not be allowed to damage the value of journalistic credibility. At the end of the day, we see journalism is still alive however merely adapting.


sources:
http://comjig.blogspot.ca/.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism_school
http://www.newspaperscanada.ca/Connecting-to-Canadians-with-Community-Newspapers

National Interests Come First

Most of the countries are in competition with one another as they want to accelerate and protect their economic progression to gain an improved standard of living for their populace. Similarly, both India and Pakistan are interested in the eradication of poverty so that living conditions of their peoples get improved significantly. In doing so, they have to compete with each other in securing an influential position in the comity of nations.

India has strived hard to reach a point where business and infrastructure growth is being aligned to propel the nation to “a position of world power.” And, there is absolutely no doubt that with a true visionary leader like Modi, India is all set to be heading towards the right direction.

Furthermore, nationalistic spirit is at all time high in India, people are getting wealthier, and businesses keep on booming throughout the country. That’s why, the whole world wants to do business with India, because the market is highly lucrative there.

Both President Obama and P.M. Modi have jointly demonstrated a “political will” to significantly elevate the U.S.-India relationship.

Indeed, the 2015 January 25 Joint Statement builds on the September 30 Joint Statement of 2014 which presents an exhaustive and comprehensive vision for mutual future cooperation and collaboration between the two economic powers. India is likely to enjoy the U.S. assistance ranging from high tech & space to defence, climate change, and energy.

Nevertheless, with the U.S. tilt towards the arch rival India, the Pak-U.S. mindset of understanding seems to be somewhat fading away. Obviously, there are no more fake smiles. Most probably, Islamabad is in a “wake up mode” after having been frustrated due to the U.S. foreign policy of favouring India's bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council.

Apparently, Pakistan has been denied what India is getting in the form of specific exemption to join the Nuclear Supply Group. This would allow India to import American civil nuclear technology.

According to media sources, Islamabad has warned that the US policy would compound the already “fragile” strategic stability atmosphere, and there could be detrimental impact on the peace in South Asia.

What is it that has convinced the U.S. to go ahead with preferential treatment favouring India and ignoring its long term ally Pakistan?

Reasons are following among others:

(A) The country’s “image building” matters a lot. And, India has succeeded in uplifting/projecting its image through its foreign service and its people working in the West. While, Pakistan usually falls short of sending smarter personnel and ambassadors abroad who could diligently handle matters to promote national cause.

(B) Indian media has always been very active in portraying Pakistan as terrorist state. Now with the help of some elements in Pakistani media, their job is getting easier.

(C) Also, Pakistan doesn’t even have a foreign minister yet - so what can you expect from the paralysed government other than embarrassment? In Pakistan, almost eighty percent of people are illiterate who have no clue whatsoever of national interests, however, everyone is bickering about the unsatisfied personal interests.

Thought provoking:

When President Obama was in India, Pak army Chief General Raheel Sharif dashed to China which described its friendship with Islamabad as irreplaceable in a changing geo-strategic environment in south Asia.

Pakistani leadership is in shock as the U.S.-Pak traditional alliance is set to face gradual erosion ahead. For much of its history, Pakistan has been an ally of the U.S., while Russia had stronger ties with India, even backing it during that country’s 1971 war with Pakistan.

It’s very frustrating that most of the Nato troops have left next-door Afghanistan – and the Pakistani army is straining to overcome Islamist militants on its western border – the concerned officials fear some unpleasant surprises may erupt as the United States of America’s regional interest is tilting toward India, Pakistan’s eastern neighbour and arch-rival.

Analysts are of the opinion that Pakistan's strategic partnership with the U.S. is aimed at short term gains to fight off the ongoing militancy in the region. Therefore, Pakistan is skeptical about its alliance with the U.S. in so called war on terror. That is why, Islamabad is fast expanding its economic and geo-strategic partnership with China. Pakistan believes China as its time tested friend.

Lesson for Pakistan:

The people of Pakistan must be educated enough to elect a visionary leader and the right kind of government next time to eliminate the stinky status quo.

Pakistan needs a commercially oriented foreign policy on urgent basis.

All Ambassadors and their subordinate staff should have high negotiating skills so that they are able to sell Pakistan’s point of view while serving abroad.

Mineral and natural resources/reserves rich Pakistan is in need of regaining its lost self esteem; it needs to stop its addiction of being a donation receiving country.

Pakistanis must realise that no one is capable of solving their problems other than themselves.

The fact is a nuclear Pakistan is unacceptable to many who will do everything to neutralize it.

Despite Pakistan faces an excessive amount of terrorism, it is managing to have an annual growth rate in the neighbourhood of 4.5 percent significantly more than many European States. Pakistan has been surviving against the odds including anti Pakistan proxy war, hence is not a failed state. Actually, the term “failed state” only applies to countries like Greece, Spain and others that have received hundreds of billions of US dollars as rescue packages, yet no growth.

Most importantly, Pakistan leadership needs to understand that for attracting foreign investment along with enhanced trade, the ongoing state of political instability and militancy has to end, sooner the better.

Pakistani business elite including political leaders must show their sincerity to the nation by bringing back their capital from abroad to give an economic facelift to their own country. Indeed, it would be helping Pakistan to stay competitive internationally.

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SOURCES:

http://www.theguardian.com/

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2015/01/25/us-india-joint-statement-shared-effort-progress-all

www.dawn.com, www.thenews.com.pk, www.nation.com

Democratic Masters of Incompetence

Democracy is a form of government that substitutes election by the incompetent many for appointment by the corrupt few. George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950).

Historically, Pakistan suffers from the uneducated populace that has habitually shown nothing much beyond submissiveness during the previous elections; this kills the level playing field right there.

Secondly, wrong candidates tend to play dirty politics; curse of stealing the “public mandate” including ballot stuffing and other types of rigging being among the most painful wrongs. Naturally, the nation ends up with repercussions in the form of lost merit, disrespecting rule of law and the constitution. Most of the time, the judiciary is blamed for their “slow paced deliverance of justice.” despite the existing malfunctioning system.

Previously, the  ruling PPP (Pakistan people party)under the co chairmanship of president Asif Zardari, could not offer other than a sub standard governance that continued with its inherent ‘chronic sufferance’ from the worst administrative paralysis.

Unfortunately, the current Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was on tour abroad along with finance minister, and no one knew what to do with petrol crisis. Ironically, the cabinet ministers were seen bashing their own government. The painful scenario is the federal government delayed actions to address the worst petrol crisis leaving the consumers unattended. This shows the worst manifest of bad governance.

Despite the delivery failures, the PPP luckily managed to fully enjoy the five long years of inefficiency and national loot. On the other hand, the N league is in the driver’s seat with no sense of direction whatsoever.

Since the Nawaz regime is prematurely on the ventilator, it does not seem to continue running the show for the full term. The reason is simple: It’s generally assumed that even the most incompetent is not too incompetent to see the country running out of fuel.

The reliable sources point fingers towards the government as it is part of the circular debt. Why is it unable to pay its dues? What did stop the ministry of finance to have ensured collection of needed funds ahead of time to keep them available?

Actually, the government doesn’t have“know-how” or a “workable strategy” in place to eliminate the circular debt once and for all.

It is certainly true that PSO (Pakistan State Oil) should have realised that its continual default on payment would have a negative impact on its credit lines, however, its precarious financial condition is partly the fault of the past and the current governments. Hence, total blame shifting to PSO is just an attempt to get off the hook.

Sadly, the consumers have been running around back and forth for a week or so in search of petrol but all in vain. Other scenario is waiting time for gas and electricity’s load shedding has also been increased adding to the existing stubborn misery.

No electricity-no gas-no petrol, maybe the next one will be “no breathing.”

All over the World, price of oil is at its lowest point in years, but the Pakistanis have to wait in mile-long line ups – isn’t that shameful! God forbid! looming fear is furnace oil stocks with the power companies are running out. If the government doesn’t have a clue how to handle fuel crisis, then the political, economic and security issues are a way more complicated issues.

The sequence of events that led up to the shortages is quite obvious by now, and it is disingenuous on the finance minister’s part to try and shrug off responsibility.

It is hard to understand as to why the so called democratic prime minister and finance minister prefer to keep all power in their own hands. When they are out of country, there is no appropriate action to solve the emerging issue in their absence. Furthermore, as a large part of the crisis grows up because of the funding requirements of PSO, credit lines are affected adversely due to defaults in payments of furnace oil imports, yet no explanation comes from the finance ministry.

Beyond doubt, managing the oil supply chain is tricky business and technical in nature; this requires advance planning because limited storage capacity for petrol at Karachi site. Also, managing the supplies becomes much difficult if the company placing the order does not know whether it will have the funds to honour the required payment. In fact, suppliers demand money upfront before a vessel is loaded. The fact is the vessels have transit time, berthing is often not available on demand, and discharging the fuel for upcountry transportation can take days. 
Thus, whole process of supply is very complicated so the funds and management have to be certainly available all the time 24/7.

Obviously, the worst form of negligence is the current unprecedented shortage of petrol in the country for the last week or so has never been seen before. This alone exposes the government’s tall claims of good governance, improving national economy and running the country’s affairs. Wow!

Not importing even a single litre of oil during the month of December and importing only once during January is not the way to go. Is it inefficiency on part of the government or is it something cooking up merely for privatising the PSO? Time will tell.

But for now, the government needs to take a serious look at how it is running things and as to why this situation did arise in the first place. Although, the best option is the prime minister, finance minister and petroleum minister must step down immediately to pave the way for better governance in future, yet fashion of resigning is not for Pakistani democracy. Democracy by the incompetent is likely to continue.

Suggestion: 
True, crises do erupt in fuel supply/ power supply due to circular debt, nevertheless, the government is responsible to legally bind the defaulters to repay the debts. No immunity should ever be given to the defaulting institutions, provincial departments/federal ministries. Govt including OGRA (Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority) and PSO must go after recovering of the unpaid bills of electricity, gas and petrol.

Though slower, yet the alternate means of transportation in the meanwhile including Tonga and cycle rickshaw are the best options plus there is unpolluted clean air to breathe. Follow the Chinese model of simplicity using bicycles; that’s good for health and is very economical indeed.

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