FARUKH SHEHZAD

ISLAMABAD, FEB 2021: On 23rd February, an online International Conference was organized to discuss “Cooperation Perspectives Between Azerbaijani and Pakistani Youth Diaspora to the International Recognition of Khojaly Genocide”.

This conference was jointly organized by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani Diaspora Youth & Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad.

The conference commenced with the opening remarks of Dr. Mehmud Ul Hassan Khan, member board of experts, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad, and Regional Geopolitical Analyst.

He stated that genocides against Azerbaijan have achieved nothing but widespread condemnation. It also fueled concepts of self-defense, self-reliance, economic sustainability, protection of national pride, the safety of heritage, and unbending passions for territorial sovereignty.

He acknowledged and appreciated the energetic youth of Azerbaijan who stood firm against Armenian atrocities. Furthermore, he stated that Azerbaijan is now stronger than ever, their victory in Nagorno-Karabakh signifies their unity and strength against Armenia and their barbaric activities.

Dr. Zarmina Baloch, Member Board of Experts, CGSS, and Lecturer at Islamia College University, Peshawar, Pakistan highlighted the historical background of Armenian aggression against Azerbaijan. She emphasized that even before the Khojaly massacre, Armenia was against Azerbaijan and took evil initiatives for the ethnic cleansing of the Azerbaijani people. She also highlighted the reasons behind this ethnic cleansing that include mono-ethnic beliefs and their ambition to destroy the Azerbaijani history and culture.

Dr. Zarmina emphasized the important role of youth in spreading awareness regarding inhumane acts against humanity, she also mentioned atrocities in Occupied Kashmir and expressed her solidarity with the victims of the Khojaly massacre.

Mr. Hasan Alakbar, a Khojaly resident from Azerbaijan shared his experience of being a victim of the Khojaly massacre. He stated that almost 29 years have been passed but the heartbreaking and tragic events are still fresh in our minds. He also emphasized that due to the Armenian attacks his family had to vacate their house in a state of fear and anguish.

Mr. Nasir Zaman, Research Assistant, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad highlighted that Pakistan has substantially helped Azerbaijan over past decades in highlighting the now-ended Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and Khojaly genocide before the international community. It is also an important task for the young diaspora of both countries to highlight the illegality of the Khojaly genocide before the international community by proving the violation of relevant international laws in this context. He suggested that policy of global and public outreach and awareness campaigns must be initiated in Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

Ms. Tehreem Qizilbash, Azerbaijani Community Member in Pakistan discussed the importance of youth inclusion in matters of international importance. She stated that Pakistan and Azerbaijan share an ancient and historical cultural bond that must be utilized in all capacities. She also highlighted that it was witnessed in recent events that Armenia is capable of manipulating history and using it for its gain. She stated that the youth diaspora of both countries should study the history of Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

Ms. Tehreem also emphasized that Pakistan has always supported Azerbaijan on all international forums and similarly Azerbaijan has shown solidarity with Pakistan in the Kashmir issue.

Mr. Malik Musawwar Hameed, Student Ambassador, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad highlighted the importance of enhancing bilateral ties through diasporas as they play a vital role in displaying a soft image of a country.

He highlighted that it is important that the diaspora committees of both countries celebrate national days together in different countries of the world. This conference is also an important step to highlight the atrocities committed by Armenia on national and international forums.

Ms. Palwasha Nawaz, Project Executive, CGSS in her closing remarks mentioned that Khojaly Genocide is one of the most serious crimes of history not only against the people of Azerbaijan but also against humanity. She stated that the state of Pakistan and its people gave always given unreserved support to Azerbaijan and its people as we are linked by our shared history.

The conference was moderated by Ms. Laraib Fatima Hassan, Communication & Coordination Manager, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad. She stated that the diasporas of Pakistan and Azerbaijan will further cooperate in many areas specifically in raising voices against these crimes against humanity.

The conference was attended by 40 participants and was viewed live on various social media platforms as well.

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COURTESY CGSS

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COLOMBO, FEB 24: Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Wednesday that the only way forward for the subcontinent is to resolve existing issues through dialogue.

"Immediately when I came into power, I approached our neighbour India and explained to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the way forward for the subcontinent is to resolve our differences through dialogue.

"I didn't succeed but I am optimistic that eventually sense will prevail. The only way the subcontinent can tackle poverty is by improving trade relations. Let us live like civilised neighbours as the Europeans live."

The prime minister expressed the views while addressing the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Conference in Colombo, aimed at promoting trade and investment between the two countries.

"Germany and France have fought multiple times, but today it is unthinkable for them to have a conflict because they are so interlinked due to trade. Similarly, my dream for the subcontinent is that we resolve our differences," he said, adding that the Kashmir issue was the only conflict in the region.

"All we want is for the Kashmir dispute to be resolved according to the United Nations Security Council resolutions and this can only be achieved through dialogue."

The prime minister said that a conflict between two nations only breeds more conflict. "We need to resolve our differences through dialogue and not through conflict. Imagine the potential for trade within the subcontinent," he said, adding that the only thing stopping the region from realising this potential was the inability to resolve differences through dialogue.

He expressed the hope that Pakistan could also play its part in reducing rising tensions between the United States and China. "We would much rather be a country that brings other nations and humanity together," he said.

Poverty alleviation

PM Imran began his address by stating that poverty alleviation was his motivation behind entering politics. "Twenty five years ago, I entered politics because I felt that the best way to reduce poverty in our country was to setup a welfare state," adding that he realised that the Sri Lankan leadership was also motivated by poverty alleviation.

He said that during his meeting with Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the two discussed how to bring down the rising cost of food items. Earlier today, the premier called on the Sri Lankan president for a one-on-one meeting at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.

"He told me how he went to China and visited various farms where the gap between the wholesale and the retail [market] had been reduced."

In Pakistan, a huge gap exists between these two, he said, adding that he was going to take the Sri Lankan president's input on board.

"The other way we can reduce poverty is through investment and promoting profitability in business. We have completely changed our policies in Pakistan," he said, adding that in the past, government policies had impeded foreign investment.

Stating that the country's ranking on the Ease of Doing Business index had improved, PM Imran said that the whole idea was to generate wealth to uplift the underprivileged. "This is what China did."

The prime minister also touched on the relations between the two countries, saying that Pakistan could learn the most from Sri Lanka in terms of tourism.

"You have a much more advanced tourism industry compared to us. Pakistan has enormous potential for tourism but that potential has been limited to local tourism so far, not foreign tourism."

At the end of his address, PM Imran once again urged the Sri Lankan business community to participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project. "It gives you the opportunity of connecting from Gwadar right up to Uzbekistan and the central Asian states.

"This is the connectivity that Pakistan offers [...] we have these special economic zones which give incentives to businesses to set up industries there. So I invite Sri Lankan businesses, businessmen and investment, you can come over to Pakistan."

'Focus is economic diplomacy'

Addressing the conference, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that the two countries have to look at how to improve bilateral relations.

"When Imran Khan took reins of the government, our economic indicators were pointing in the wrong direction. [But] in two-and-a-half years we have achieved, to a large extent, economic stability," he said, adding that the focus had now shifted towards growth.

Pakistan has moved up a number of places in the Ease of Doing Business ranking and the government is also facilitating investment, he said. "Our focus has shifted from geo-politics to geo-economics," he said.

He added that the aim was to make Pakistan a hub of economic activity, while focusing on development and connectivity. Addressing the participants of the conference, he said that the Foreign Office was committed to assisting and facilitating Sri Lankan businessmen.

"Our focus is economic diplomacy. You are welcome to come to Pakistan, you will see how hospitable it will be," he concluded.

Dawood appeals to business community

Commerce Adviser Abdul Razak Dawood said that the aim of the conference was to bring the business communities of the two countries together to explore new ideas and opportunities for increasing trade and investment.

"Fellow business people, under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, we have come here not to fear the future but to shape it," he said.

The adviser maintained that while there is trade between the two countries, it is not "good enough" and doesn't match the relationship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

He said that Pakistan has made a dramatic economic turnaround and is witnessing industrial growth. "So take advantage of this," he said in an appeal to the Sri Lankan business community.

"We stand at a moment where our capacity to change the economic relationship is unmatched [...]. We must not accept the current level of economic relations and must imagine future relations," he said.

PM Imran meets Sri Lankan president

Earlier today, PM Imran called on the Sri Lankan president at the President House in Colombo. According to the Prime Minister's Office, the one-on-one meeting between the two leaders was followed by delegation-level talks.

"The premier underlined the exceptional quality of Pakistan-Sri Lanka relations marked by trust, understanding and mutual support. The prime minister emphasised the importance of building a robust economic partnership characterised by enhanced bilateral trade, investments, and commercial cooperation," the statement said.

The prime minister also laid emphasis on deeper collaboration in diverse fields — particularly agriculture, tourism, science and technology, sports, education and culture. The importance of sharing experiences in poverty alleviation was also stressed.

The prime minister underlined that Pakistan and Sri Lanka had always stood by each other. He re-affirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support to Sri Lanka in the future. The close cooperation between the two sides in the multilateral fora was re-affirmed, the statement said.

While noting the close traditional and cultural ties between the two countries, PM Imran highlighted that Pakistan has the potential of being a choice destination for religious tourism for Sri Lankan people. He particularly highlighted the rich Buddhist heritage of Pakistan.

"In the regional context, the premier shared his vision of peace, development, and connectivity. He also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation through the platform of SAARC and the opportunities for regional prosperity through CPEC, the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative," the statement said.

PM Imran extended a cordial invitation to President Rajapaksa to visit Pakistan at the earliest convenience, the statement concluded.

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COURTESY DAWN NEWS

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 24: Extreme Commerce Pakistan’s first EdTech company specializing in e-commerce and digital trade education and practices to train Pakistani youth to sell on Daraz platform. Extreme Commerce and Daraz signed a memorandum to improve eCommerce and digital trade literacy in the country.

Although, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) are working to introduce a platform that will facilitate Pakistani traders to exports their products seamlessly on global platforms such as Amazon, Alibaba, and eBay, the local traders are looking for an opportunity to explore the global markets enthusiastically.

As per the latest eCommerce numbers, released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) upto Q3 2020 (Q1 FY21), the eCommerce market size for the year upto Q3 2020 was 96B PKR (assuming a 60% COD volume), prepayment was 39B over the same period. There are now 2,164 merchants who accept prepayment methods which is a large jump from the previous quarter. There are now 43k orders a day via prepayment method (in Q3 2020) on Pakistani merchants, which is up from 24k and 13k in the same quarter in 2019 and 2018. More eCommerce data can be found HERE.

The partnership between Extreme Commerce and Darza, will be imparting knowledge skills on how to sell on the Daraz platform more efficiently with maximum customer satisfaction and potential to grow. The arrangement will facilitate the sellers to expand their enterprise further and improve their online selling skills, including formation of businesses, creating stores, product branding and marketing.

The Extreme Commerce’s Video Boot Camp (VBC) is a collection of 100+ E-Commerce and digital money-making skills in the world. VBC covers an extensive range of skills that builds and empower with eCommerce and digital trade skillsets to earn money by offering services to clients across the globe and setting up own businesses and stores on national and international eCommerce platforms. Through this MOU, the sellers and traders on Daraz will also benefit from the rich knowledge resource available on the VBC platform as well. The partnership will be catalytic for the eCommerce market to cross the Rs. 100 Billion eCommerce trade barrier in 2021. 

Sunny Ali, the Founder and Chief Executive officer of Extreme Commerce shared his views on the partnership and said, “Our first step is to start building capacity of the sellers on Daraz through our trainings and our state-of-the-art Video Boot Camp (VBC). Educating everyone with eCommerce dynamism on Daraz. We will be the bridge between Daraz sellers and Daraz with the Extreme Commerce’s knowledge repository as the learning platform. We can quickly relay issues, challenges and find solutions together. As this will help the sellers in the country to explore the eCommerce phenomenon as a knowledge-based economic growth model.

Extreme Commerce’s vision to make Pakistan a global e-commerce back-office hub has been acknowledged by international institutions as well. Extreme Commerce aims at developing a national e-commerce ecosystem through inspiring and empowering entrepreneurs. Being Pakistan’s largest e-commerce knowledge sharing and capacity building platform, Extreme Commerce has a community of more than half a million people nationwide. Whereas, Daraz believes in enabling local entrepreneurs and businesses to do business anywhere in this digital era and has a community of more than 70,000 sellers nationwide.

Omair Baksh, Head of Marketing at Daraz said, “Adaptability to e-commerce has increased in the past few months and an increased number of sellers are moving towards online selling to make a stable living for themselves. We take complete responsibility to train the seller community and equip them with the right skills for their business growth. Daraz has always focused on seller education as a core and with this partnership we are taking an additional step to create value for our sellers and buyers along with improving customer experience.

The cross-border Business to Consumer (B2C) e-commerce regulatory framework has also been developed by the SBP and the Web-Based One Customs (WeBOC) e-commerce module that the FBR is developing, would help facilitate online sales of exporting firms by allowing hassle-free documentation and shipment of export orders.

With this partnership Pakistani e-commerce enthusiasts will have access to customised courses designed for Daraz sellers that will focus on specialized training on digital trade, data analysis and other innovative solutions for business growth in ecommerce.

The success of any ecommerce business is highly dependent on customer experience that can be improved by many folds through capacity building of the seller base through education and awareness. A key battle for the ecommerce industry in Pakistan has stood to be customer trust which can be improved with ecommerce education, performance-based trainings and knowledge sharing by experienced mentors.

Extreme Commerce is Pakistan’s first EdTech start up with a sole focus on skills development and capacity building within the ecommerce and digital arena. Founded in 2017, it is the largest community of its kind in Pakistan, with well over half a million members and over 100+ courses and income streams to choose from. Extreme Commerce estimates that by 2025, it will foster a community of over 1 million strong, generating well over $1 billion in inward remittance for Pakistan.

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COURTESY DAILYTIMES

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 24: Matsuda Kuninori, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, has expressed his deep appreciation for Prime Minister Imran Khan’s initiative of adopting the Japanese Miyawaki planting technique in the country’s urban localities to fight environmental pollution.

The Ambassador, while lauding the PM Khan’s vision for Green Pakistan, in a statement on Tuesday, said that he highly values this very fruitful initiative by the Pakistani PM of using Japanese style Miyawaki technique, which is unique and was pioneered by Dr. MIYAWAKI Akira, a Japanese botanist and expert in plant ecology who advocated the value of natural forests.

“Combating environmental challenges is one of the priority areas for Japan and we appreciate the Government of Pakistan and Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision for creating a pure, green and healthy environment for the people,” said the Ambassador.

It is pertinent to mention here that under the Japanese Miyawaki approach, dozens of species that suit the environment are planted in the same area, close to each other, which ensures that they grow in a competitive environment, allowing the trees to grow faster compared to normal plantation.

The Ambassador expressed the resolve that Japan supports PM Khan’s vision of green Pakistan as this spirit was demonstrated by the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad by planting many trees in the compound of the Embassy as well as in the Islamabad Japanese Garden recently.

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 24: Matsuda Kuninori, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, has condemned the terrorist gun attack in North Waziristan area which took place on Monday 22nd February, in which four female vocational trainers were shot dead and their driver injured while reportedly driving through a village to provide vocational training to local women.

In his message, Ambassador MATSUDA on Tuesday said, “I am deeply saddened and shocked by the killing of four innocent women in North Waziristan area. I extend my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured in the cowardly attack targeting women.”

The Ambassador said that Japan strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and we will continue to support the efforts by the Government of Pakistan to combat terrorism.

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• Holds one-on-one meeting with counterpart Rajapaksa

• Five MoUs signed to boost ties in diverse fields
• Leadership, top officials, businessmen from both countries to attend trade, investment conference today

COLOMBO, FEB 24: Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Tuesday agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations in diverse areas, including trade, investment, science and technology, tourism and culture through enhanced connectivity.

“My visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relationship [with Sri Lanka], especially trade and economic ties through enhanced connectivity,” Prime Minister Imran Khan said while addressing a joint press conference with his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa here after holding a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks.

Since Pakistan is part of the Chinese president’s Belt and Road Initiative through its flagship China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, Sri Lanka could benefit from it through enhanced connectivity up to the Central Asian states, said Prime Minister Khan who along with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Commerce Adviser Abdul Razzak Dawood and Special Assistant Zulfikar Abbas Bukhari is on a two-day visit to Sri Lanka on the invitation of PM Rajapaksa.

Around 40 leading Pakistani businessmen are also accompanying the prime minister during his visit. The Pakistan mission in Colombo has invited 200 top businessmen and investors from Sri Lanka to the joint trade and investment conference being held in Colombo on Wednesday (today) by the commerce ministry and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan.

While addressing a joint presser with his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa, PM Khan told the media that he had asked his delegation to find ways and means to enhance trade and economic relations between the two countries through increased connectivity. While highlighting the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and promoting the vision of peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia and beyond, he underlined the imperative of constructive engagement by all sides to promote a political solution to the conflict in Afghanistan.

Pakistan’s shifting focus from geostrategic to geo-economics was discussed at the meeting during which the three pillars of Pakistan’s vision — peace, development partnerships, and connectivity — were underscored. The two sides reiterated their commitment to the principles and objectives of Saarc charter and agreed to take forward the Saarc process for regional cooperation.

Mr Khan said with Pakistan having faced the worst kind of terrorism that claimed over 70,000 lives in a decade and Sri Lanka also facing the menace for 30 years, the two countries shared the common problem. He also mentioned the role played by Pakistan in addressing the problem that was hindering Sri Lanka’s progress and development.

The premier said there hardly came any investment during the 10 years amid the wave of terrorism in Pakistan. Then coronavirus hit the economy of both countries, he said, highlighting the need for getting debt relief from the developed world as well as the international financial institutions besides urging the United Nations and other international institutions to step in to help the developing nations. He explained that Pakistan had provided a stimulus package of $8 billion compared to $3,000bn provided by the US to its people.

Coming back to the bilateral relations, PM Khan said Pakistan having various heritage sites was home to ancient civilizations of Gandhara and Budhism and called for enhanced cooperation between the two countries in tourism. He also extended an invitation to his Sri Lankan counterpart to visit Pakistan.

Mr Khan, the first head of government to visit Sri Lanka after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assumed office last year, said he had been visiting Sri Lanka and played cricket there, recalling how Sri Lankan cricket team revolutionised and became the world class team.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa told the media persons that they discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest, besides ways and means to strengthen bilateral ties.

He said during the meeting, the two sides agreed to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in diverse areas including trade, investment, science and technology, education and culture.

MoUs signed

On the occasion, PM Khan and his Sri Lankan counterpart witnessed the signing of five memorandums of understanding (MOUs) for enhanced bilateral cooperation in the fields of investment, science and technology, and industrial technology.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the reconstitution of the Sri Lanka-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Association will also be announced during the visit to further promote parliamentary exchanges between the two countries.

A Sri Lankan foreign ministry statement said the visit would feature a business and investment forum, as well as a sports diplomacy initiative.

This is the fourth high-level engagement between Pakistan and Sri Lanka witnessed in last few months since the Sixth Foreign Secretary Level Bilateral Political Consultations in December 2020, followed by the 12th Session of Joint Economic Commission.

Meanwhile, Associated Press reported that Sri Lankan Muslims protested near the president’s office demanding that the government allow people who die of Covid-19 to be buried instead of cremated. They believe Mr Khan would take up the burial issue as well with the Sri Lankan leadership.

Earlier, PM Rajapaksa received Mr Khan on his arrival here at the Bandaranaike International Airport this afternoon.

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COURTESY DAWN NEWS

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 23: Azerbaijan Ambassador Ali Alizade highlighted the genocide perpetrated by the Armenian army in the Nagorno-Karabakh area of Khojaly and said that the occupational forces committed massive killings to suppress the voices against freedom of Nagorno-Karabakh.

He said that despite United Nations Security Council resolutions, the world community failed to help the oppressed people of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azerbaijan Ambassador also urged the United Nations to hold a plebiscite in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Shehryar Khan Afridi also spoke that Indian occupational forces are waging a ‘rape war’ using rape as a tool of genocide against the freedom-loving Kashmiris and the failure of the world community in punishing the culprits of Kupwara mass rapes may lead to the eruption of a new war between two nuclear neighbours.

The event, dedicated to the 29th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide occurred on February 26, 1992, was held under the auspices of the Islamabad Institute of Conflict Resolution (ISCR) in liaison with the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Islamabad.

Afridi said that until recently, there existed no punishment for ‘war rape’ in international law.

“War crimes or humanitarian law specifically focuses on the treatment of the civilian population and ‘any devastation not justified by military necessity. Thereafter, war rape has rarely been prosecuted as a war crime. Since 1949 Article 27 of the Fourth Geneva Convention explicitly prohibits wartime rape and enforced prostitution,” he said.

He said that the United Nations and the prosperous world needs to take steps to protect the weak and unprotected segments of society”.

He said that repeated incidents of massacres and genocide reflect that the world has failed to protect the oppressed people living in conflict zones as might is right prevails.

Shehryar Afridi said that the mass rapes of women in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Khojaly have been used by occupational forces as tools of genocide.

Kunan Poshpora in Kupwara is the most scenic area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir but the mass rapes of 1991 have left scars in the minds of the people of Kashmir.

He said the international community has done nothing to punish the culprits of Kupwara, the genocide in Khojaly may not have happened.

He said that expansionist designs of India are a threat to world peace and if the world fails to bring resolution to conflict zones like Jammu and Kashmir, no one can rule out the possibility of a new war erupting between Pakistan and India.

“Any new war may suck in other nuclear powers of the region. Hence, this conflict may not remain limited,” warned the Chairman.

He said that India is being ruled by a fascist regime of Narendra Modi who believes in Hindu supremacist ideology and all minorities in India are under a threat of genocide.

He said that unfortunately, rape is also used a tool of punishment in conflict zones and history suggests that this one element of violence is used as an effective weapon and strategy for disarming psychological war.

“This weapon of rape was used by many combatants and this global issue has no national boundaries of ideology or religion”.

He said that it is more of associated with masculine identity commonly but in war times there is often a violation of men and children too through different means of torture and distress.

“Therefore, it often does not remain gender bound but women being soft targets are more of victims of rape in war precincts. There are many examples of such mass rapes during conflicts and war times during Rwanda genocide, Bosnia & Kosovo conflicts, Khojaly massacre by Armenian forces in Azerbaijan and not to forget Kashmir where such incidents occur frequently to suppress freedom movement,” he added.

Afridi said that in Kashmiri history, mass rape incidents ensued in the area of Kunan Poshpora in February 1991 and the social stigma generated out of this incident is that women still face difficulties in getting married.

He said that the South Asian subcontinent is the least gender-sensitive region in the world. It is the only region in the world where men outnumber women.

The Defence analyst Lt. General (retd) Amjad Shoaib and the Assistant Professor Dr. Salma Malik also addressed the seminar.

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COURTESY dnd news

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 23: The Japanese Embassy celebrated the 61st birthday of the country's 126th Emperor, Naruhito, on Monday. However, the usual reception for it was not held as a precautionary measure against coronavirus.

Ambassador of Japan Matsuda Kuninori expressed gratitude and appreciation to the Pakistani government and people for extending their messages of felicitation and good wishes for the emperor and his family.

He said since his accession to the throne on May 1, 2019, as the 126th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Naruhito, stood as the symbol of Japan and of the unity of the people. "Emperor Naruhito and the imperial family facilitate the fostering of good relations with foreign countries including Pakistan." The ambassador, while recalling the cherished memories of Pakistan’s relationship with the Japanese Imperial House, said Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko, who were the parents of Emperor Naruhito, visited Pakistan as the then-Crown Prince and Princess in 1962, on the 10th anniversary of diplomatic relations, which became the first visit by the members of the Imperial House to Pakistan.

He said Pakistani President Dr Arif Alvi and First Lady Samina Alvi, on the invitation of the government of Japan, paid an official visit to Japan to attend the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Naruhito in October 2019.

Highlighting the decade’s old historical and amicable relations between Japan and Pakistan, the ambassador said Japan had remained one of the major bilateral development partners of Pakistan since 1954 extending assistance in multi-faceted sectors.

"The total amount of Japan’s economic assistance to Pakistan by March 2020 amounts to $13 billion and this makes Japan the second-largest economic partner of Pakistan," he said.

The envoy said as the year 2022 will mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan, the ambassador has invited all Pakistani people to come forward and join hands with the embassy to celebrate this historic relationship in a splendid way.

Cultural and people-to-people exchanges, the Ambassador said, are the foundation of our friendship from a long-term perspective.

The Ambassador, on this occasion of the birthday celebrations of the Emperor, stressed that we must renew ourselves to further develop our close relations and make a firm resolve to deepen our cherished ties, which will amplify the welfare of people of both the countries.

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COURTESY THE NEWS

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 23: The Government of Japan on Monday announced a contribution of US$ 3.7 million to support UNHCR’s programmes and activities for Afghan refugees and host communities in Pakistan.

This three-year project will focus on education, livelihood assistance, and community structures in the provinces of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab, benefitting over 240,000 individuals.

The announcement was made at a ceremony in Islamabad.

On this occasion, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, His Excellency Mr. MATSUDA Kuninori, and UNHCR Representative, Ms. Noriko Yoshida, signed an agreement.

The Chief Commissioner for Afghan Refugees, Mr. Saleem Khan, was also present.

“Acquiring education and vocational skills is vital for the social inclusion of Afghan refugees. In this project, we will continue to provide financial support, which will greatly contribute to the stability and peace of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Peace and stability are the preconditions for achieving voluntary repatriation and sustainable reintegration in Afghanistan,” said Ambassador MATSUDA.

Ms. Yoshida thanked the people and Government of Japan for their generosity towards refugees and host communities.

“This funding will go a long way to empowering young refugees and Pakistanis through skills development and education.”

The UNHCR Representative further said that given the protracted Afghan refugee situation in Pakistan, Japan is supporting sustained investments easing the burden on host communities.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Commissioner for Afghan Refugees said that Pakistan has been hosting Afghan refugees for over 40 years and called on the international community to step up their support for large refugee-hosting countries.

“Japan has always played its part in supporting humanitarian efforts in Pakistan,” commended Mr. Khan.

Japan is playing an important role in burden- and responsibility-sharing, as set out in the Global Compact for Refugees adopted at the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018.

The Government of Japan is one of UNHCR’s largest donors and supporters of many years.

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COURTESY dndnews

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 23: The Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS) and the Hans Seidel Foundation (HSF) Pakistan jointly organized a Conference on the topic of “Technological Transformation in Pakistan: An Asset or Liability?” at Margala Hotel in Islamabad on Monday.

The discussion commenced with the opening remarks by Ashfaq Ahmed Gondal, Former Federal Secretary Information and Broadcasting and Senior Member Board of Advisors, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad.

He stated that technological transformation is a very significant topic because things are changing very rapidly vis-à-vis technological development. Technology is an asset as it opens new avenues of development and prosperity on a broad level. It is a powerful tool for business growth if used prudently. If we fail to use it in its true essence, it can become a liability.

Dr. Steffen Kudella, Resident Representative, HSF Pakistan in his welcome remarks discussed significant aspects of the topic at this conference. He stated that an algorithm is a mechanistic formula that automatically produces an answer for each new case that appears. This happens with no or with very minimal human intervention. Algorithms are marking the current age of technology. However, algorithms face serious limitations.

Dr. Steffen stated that Artificial Intelligence is still far away from having real super-human abilities. It is important for us to see not only the potential but also the limitations of Artificial Intelligence.

However, it is unlikely that they will be able to replace human beings completely in the future. Knowing this, human beings can and should adjust their skills through education and training as per the needs of the future society.

Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Government of Pakistan was the Chief Guest at this conference.

He stated that Germany, China, and Japan have re-emerged because of their focused economic development through technology which has resulted in rapid economic growth within their societies.

He stated that the Government of Pakistan is taking efficient steps to introduce technology and innovation in various sectors within the country.

“We have aptly invested in health and education during the past years. Our youth is doing great and if we have not performed in the last seventy decades, we surely have the vigor and energy to do it now. We have great potential to deliver to the world and we should not be overwhelmed by any challenges,” he said.

Barrister Waqas Aziz Qureshi – Senior Law Expert and Managing Partner, Transact Advisory presented a speech on the topic “Legal and Legislative Perspective on the Technological Transformation in Pakistan.”

He stated his concern regarding what is required in terms of the legal framework to enhance better technological development. Pakistan is inclined towards traditional investment patterns. Technology has not transformed our economy because of our lack of interest in its development. The Government of Pakistan has taken vigilant steps to match pace with the world in this regard. He recommended that special economic zones for technological development can be set up for an economic boost in this field. There should be technology-based companies that should benefit from Government’s incentives and initiatives.

Mr. Amir Zafar Durrani, President, Reenergia (Expert of renewable energy, development, trade and connectivity) presented a speech on “Adapting Pakistan to Post COVID-19 Technology Gains: Some Thought Pathways.”

He stated that the biggest compression of technology is happening in our region. Life patterns are changing, with some job opportunities at lower vocational drying up. During such perilous times, resilient businesses have benefitted by adopting and embracing digital methods, showing new pathways about how best to adopt technological development.

“Unfortunately, we are teaching our kids everything but cognitive thinking which, in the long run, can be extremely dangerous and counterproductive for us,” he stated.

He stated that this is the era of the fast-emerging East because of the Chinese widespread investment in its immediate geographical vicinity and beyond.

“We need to train our people and must stand as a nation to protect CPEC which is virtually the economic lifeline of our country in times to come. If technology is not used efficiently and prudently, it can become a liability. If we handle our resources and youth smartly, the technological transformation has all the elements in it to become an asset,” he stated.

Mr. Ammar Jaffri, Director General, Center of Information Technology (CIT) presented a speech on the topic “Technological Transformation in Pakistan through BRI & CPEC.” He stated, “Challenges are present and we need to have joint platforms for facilitating and bringing technology in Pakistan. As for the government, it must regulate and introduce suitable environment and should keep a strict check”.

He stated that our biggest opportunity and trump card is our youth. “They have a passion and I have faith in them if are guided well. Our universities must deliver the right manpower”.

Mr. Jawad Majid, Director, Silk Bank highlighted the “Impacts of Technological Transformation on Pakistan’s Financial Sector.” He stated that there are several opportunities that are present for the youth nowadays vis-à-vis this topic.

“We can include youth by giving them initial capital to induce them towards financial betterment via technical development in monetary and banking sectors. Private banks can collaborate and work together cohesively with the government institutions and other stakeholders related to the technological sector for exponentially boosting prospects of better technological development of Pakistan in due course of time,” he stated.

Mr. Tariq Malik – Former Chief Technology Officer, GHQ presented a speech on the topic “Challenges to Social Security under the Technological Transformation in Pakistan.” He stated that millions of jobs are expected to be lost or displaced during the coming decades because of the technological development happening today and fear of losing job is rampant.

He stated that “Artificial Intelligence can revolutionize segments of life and can bring new opportunities. If technology is not understood and adopted, unemployment is not far away. When we are part of the global economy, we ought to change ourselves. We need to understand destination jobs for tomorrow. On the other hand, if technological development is embraced with open arms and is allowed to sensibly grow in our country, many job opportunities can emerge”.

Dr. Minhas Majeed Marwat, Department of International Relations, University of Peshawar presented a speech on “Evolving Education Sector in the Prism of Technological Transformation: Challenges and Solutions.”

She stated that technology has affected all aspects of life. Technology and the learning process has become more effective due to technological development. Technology has changed the traditional role of teachers now. Presently, massive information is present on the internet and formal learning has consequently become much easier. Due to technological development, feedback between students and teachers has also become better because of this technological development.

She concluded by stating that such development might be widening the social gap within Pakistan but on the other hand, it can be a blessing as well.

Mr. Aamir Ghauri, Editor, The News presented a speech on the topic “Technological Transformation Impacting Media: Increasing Challenges and the Way Forward”. He stated that the mushroom growth of media in Pakistan has created bigger challenges. He stated that the journalists work as the watchdog in the public interest.

Mr. Aamir stated that the biggest challenge that we are facing today is fake news. Mainstream media has to work under certain policy framework regulations. Having said that, lawmakers and legislative bodies must also catch up with the evolving technology. We also need to research sources to fact-check the information. He also comprehensively elaborated on the responsibilities of the media and reporters.

Ms. Bareerah Fatima, Program Liaison Officer Associate, Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) gave a glimpse of the usage of digital technology for various multifaceted purposes vis-à-vis water conservation and management.

She stated that at the moment, water conservation in the agriculture sector requires quick improvement through technological development.

The esteemed speakers gave a presentation on various aspects related to water conservation and management. Indus telemetry initiative is significantly helping in water management and conservation through its data gathering through its advanced technological mechanism and techniques.

She also stated facts vis-a-vis aspects related to groundwater management and monitoring present in Pakistan at the moment. Real-time canal monitoring was also discussed in considerable length. Satellite-based water resource management has also significantly helped in this regard.

The event was attended by approximately 130 participants and was moderated by Ms. Palwasha Nawaz, Project Executive, CGSS.

All Sops were followed diligently…

COURTESY dndnews/cgss

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 22: The Islamabad Institute of Conflict Resolution (IICR) in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan will organize a Seminar on “Bombardments, Massacres, Genocides. Crimes Against Humanity” in Islamabad on Monday.

The Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Shehryar Khan Afridi will grace the event as the Chief Guest.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan H.E Ali Alizada among other dignataries will also address the audience at the Seminar.

The Seminar has been dedicated to the 29th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide occurred on February 26, 1992.

On February 26, 1992, the Armenian military units carried out an act of genocide against the 7,000 population of Azerbaijan’s Khojaly town, killing over 600 people and injuring 1,000 further.

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COUTESY dndnews

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