Friday, 24 September 2021

Huawei Public Cloud Aids CMPak Make Next-Generation Digital Solutions

 

Huawei Public Cloud Aids CMPak Make Next-Generation Digital Solutions

ISLAMABAD, SEPT 24: China Mobile Pakistan subsidiary CMPak and Huawei Technologies Pakistan held a signing ceremony in Islamabad on public cloud cooperation, and officially announced that it became the official partner of Huawei public cloud in Pakistan. The release of the public cloud partnership further strengthens the cooperation between CMPak and Huawei Technologies Pakistan in industry digitalization, which was jointly announced at the event today.

In recent years, the government of Pakistan has put forward the vision of building a digital Pakistan, including network connectivity, digital infrastructure, e-government, digital skills, and innovative entrepreneurship. It advocates the improvement of city management through digitalization. By 2025, the contribution of the digital economy to the GDP of the entire country will increase from the current 3.9% to 13%. Under this trend, enterprises in various industries will transform their IT infrastructures and gradually evolve their IT services to high efficiency, intelligence, and flexibility.

Enterprises only need to focus on business domains rather than infrastructure planning (computing, network, storage, security, and O&M). The cooperation between CMPak and HUAWEI CLOUD not only adapts to the current trend, but also helps enterprises better enable digital transformation.

"This partnership is unique. Huawei has strong public cloud strength, and CMPAK has wide range of connections and enterprise customer coverage in Pakistan. This strong alliance will make full use of the joint advantage of both parties to accelerate the digital transformation of Pakistani enterprise customers."said Mr. Gao Weijie, Deputy CEO of Huawei Technologies Pakistan (Private) Ltd.

"As digital and start-ups are at the forefront of Pakistan's market, bringing the most innovative, reliable and affordable public cloud solutions to local enterprises and the public sector will bring digital convenience to SMEs and public sector companies", said Mr. Farooq Raza, Director of CMPak Govt. & Corporate Sales.

As a leading mobile operator in Pakistan's 4G network field, CMPak has dedicated to provide high-value private lines for enterprise customers and build a leading network architecture. Currently, Huawei is one of the world-class cloud service providers. It provides more than 220 cloud services and multiple zones at very affordable prices. This enables public and private enterprises to obtain the required cloud services in an innovative, agile, and reliable manner and provide the best services for target markets.

The signing between Huawei and CMPak will further deepen the strategic cooperation between the two companies in the ICT field. In the future, they will jointly build a digital service enablement platform based on the synergy of cloud and network, which will serve vertical industries such as start-ups, governments, banks, education, and the private sector in order to contribute to the economic prosperity of the region.

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Japan, Pakistan FM’s discuss latest Afghanistan situation during meeting in New York

 

Japan, Pakistan FM’s discuss latest Afghanistan situation during meeting in New York

NEW YORK, SEPT 24: On September 23, commencing at 6:10 p.m. (local time; September 24, 3:10 a.m. PKT) for approximately 20 minutes, MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, during his visit to the United States of America, held a meeting with Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

MATSUDA Kuninori, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, stated that the realization of the face-to-face meeting between the two Ministers on the occasion of the UN General Assembly held in New York despite the pandemic, was extremely timely in view of current bilateral relations and regional affairs. 

He also expressed his appreciation for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations for its dedications to realizing the meeting. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

Minister MOTEGI expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s cooperation, including the acceptance of Self-Defense Force aircrafts, that enabled a Japanese national as well as Afghan staff of the Japanese Embassy and JICA office to safely depart from Afghanistan and requested continued support. Minister Qureshi responded that the Government of Pakistan would spare no effort on the evacuation of the above-mentioned persons.

The two Ministers exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan, confirmed their shared goals including on inclusive political process and ensuring human rights to be respected, and also concurred on working together to prevent Afghanistan from reverting to a hotbed of terrorism and from destabilizing the region.

The two Ministers confirmed that they would further develop bilateral relations on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan in 2022.

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N.Korea leader's sister demands South drop 'hostile policies': KCNA

 

N.Korea leader's sister demands South drop 'hostile policies': KCNA

PYONGYANG, SEPT 24: The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday said it was "admirable" of the South to propose a formal end to the Korean War but demanded Seoul first drop its "hostile policies" towards Pyongyang.

Kim Yo Jong's remarks, carried by Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency, were in response to South Korean President Moon Jae-in's recent calls for declaring an official end to the 1950-53 conflict that ended in a truce, not a peace treaty, leaving the two sides technically at war for more than half a century.

In a speech at the UN General Assembly earlier this week, Moon proposed the declaration of an end to the conflict that broke out 71 years ago, stressing such an act would "make irreversible progress in denuclearisation and usher in an era of complete peace".

Kim, a key policy adviser to her brother Kim Jong Un, said it was an "admirable idea" to propose a formal end to the war but insisted the South should remove its hostile attitude first.

Making such a declaration with "double-dealing standards, prejudice and hostile policies" still in place "does not make any sense," she said.

"For the termination of the war to be declared, respect for each other should be maintained and prejudiced viewpoint, inveterate hostile policy and unequal double standards must be removed first," she said.

She added making such a declaration would "hold no water and would change nothing" under current conditions.

But the North would be willing to have talks on improving ties with Seoul if the South withdrew hostility "after breaking with the past when it often provoked us".

Kim Yo Jong last week accused Moon of "slander" after both Koreas carried out missile launches.

North Korea carried out two missile firings this month alone, one involving a long-range cruise missile and the other short-range ballistic missiles.

Moon described Pyongyang's recent launches as "provocations" when he oversaw a successful test-firing of a submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM) last week, making the South one of a handful of nations with the advanced technology.

That prompted Kim Yo Jong to condemn Seoul's "illogical attitude that describes their similar behaviour as a legitimate action to support peace, and ours as a threat to peace".

Communications between the North and South have largely been cut in the aftermarth of a second US-North summit in Hanoi that collapsed in February 2019 as then-president Donald Trump and Kim Jung Un couldn't agree on the terms of an agreement.

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COURTESY Anews

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World Tourism Day 2021: Tourism for Inclusive Growth

 

World Tourism Day 2021: Tourism for Inclusive Growth

Munaza Kazmi

World Tourism Day is celebrated each year on September 27 to spread awareness about the importance of tourism and its impact on our society. 

The day is also celebrated to spread awareness about global challenges outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to underline the efforts the tourism industry can make achieving the sustainable development goals.

United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the global body responsible for the promotion of tourism, has been celebrating World Tourism Day on September 27 since 1980.

However, this specific date was chosen,sinceback on this day the UNWTO adopted its Statutes. The Statutes are considered milestones in the global tourism space.

The UNWTO General Assembly however, in October 1997 in Turkey, decided to designate a host country each year to act as the Organization's partner in the celebration of World Tourism Day.

Last year in 2020 the theme was, “Tourism and Rural Development” and the event was celebrated in Argentina, however ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’ is the theme for World Tourism Day 2021

This year’s official celebration will be hosted by Cote d’Ivoire, celebrating tourism’s ability to drive inclusive development and the role it plays in promoting respect while generating opportunities for many millions across the globe.

The message along is to fully showcase the potential of tourism to create jobs for all and bring communities together. 

Talking about the Global tourism industry, the tourism industry has become one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world today. Over the last few years, the tourism industry has seen a tremendous expansion and growth. International tourist arrivals have grown significantly in the past few decades. 

However, now it has grown from 25 million in 1950 to 1.3 billion in 2019. The revenues earned have also increased from $2 billion in 1950 to $1,260 trillion in 2015. Tourism industry is estimated to be worth 10% of the global GDP and provides one in ten jobs globally. The UNWTO expects an annual growth of 3% in the tourism industry until 2030.

In Pakistan, the collective hospitality and tourism industry is estimated to be worth $20 billion and contributing3% to the GDP in year 2021. Moreover, the industry provides employment to an estimated 3 million people directly and indirectly.

Pakistan tourism industry was in heydays in 70’s when Karachi was supposed as Mini Dubai, however after decades Pakistan came once again into the highlights, a personal thanks to the efforts of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan’s tourism industry is an emergent market; at least from the international perspective, its wealth of scenic landscapes, particularly its stunning mountain vistas in the north, has increasingly been getting noticed. 

The British Backpacker Society ranked Pakistan as its top travel destination for 2018, and last year Forbes termed it “one of the coolest countries to visit”. Unfortunately, the authorities failed to build on that momentum and goodwill, even though the prime minister has often correctly cited the potential for tourism to become a major source of foreign exchange. 

Even as recently as December 2019, Wanderlust, the UK travel magazine, singled out Pakistan as its “hot list destination” for 2020 along US life and luxury magazine Conde Nast traveler highlighted Pakistan as “The best holiday destination 2020”.

However, the pandemic, of course, has derailed tourism everywhere.

More to say, the contemporary government has redesigned the tourism policy, but its affects have not seen so far, one example is there are dozens of PTDC motels in top tourism destination even in “Sust”that is the home to the world recognized mountains and gateway to Khunjrabhowever barren. 

I believe Pakistan have the destinations, the policies, along the infrastructure but no one to manageand implement.

Let me tell you one morething, in the year 2006 a heavy earthquake was reported in the Northern region and then the policy was made to involve no concrete in the construction of buildings because that area was spotted for regular catastrophes, however negligence can be seen. 

Moreover, there’s no idea of Eco-tourism, in the clear waters you would find garbage and plastic: ignorant society.

Recently I came back from Gwadar as I heard of its exotic beaches, however I found plastic more or less, I question the society,doyou not belong this planet and have heads and heels in polluting what you can.

I don’t know how many people would understand the grave importance of Sustainable-tourism, but I believe there would be some at least.However, those are enough to make Pakistan’s tourism sustainable and inclusive for growth. 

Moreover, with our combine efforts next year Pakistan can be seen as hosting the World Tourism Day with theme of Eco-tourism.

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Munaza Kazmi holds MPhil in Management Sciences (Bahria University Islamabad, 2020). She’s a travel writer, an author, & co-author of scientific contributions in national & international publications. Her main areas of research include tourism & quality management.

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Thursday, 23 September 2021

Kyrgyz ambassador meets business community in Peshawar

 

Kyrgyz ambassador meets business community in Peshawar

Farukh Shehzad/Editor-in-Chief

PESHAWAR, SEPT 23: On the working trip to Peshawar, Ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic Ulanbek Totuiaev met with the President of Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sherbaz Ilyas Ghazanfar Bilour and the President of the Industrialist’s Association of Peshawar Malik Imran Ishaq.

Kyrgyz ambassador meets business community in Peshawar


During the visit of the Kyrgyz ambassador to Peshawar, it was decided that Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan will jointly work to boost business opportunities in the days to come.

Ambassador Ulanbek was also briefed about the latest undertaking development projects in Peshawar. The entire meeting was held in a very friendly environment.

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"New realities and challenges" by Ex-Foreign Secretary of Pakistan

 

"New realities and challenges" by Ex-Foreign Secretary of Pakistan


BY Aug 31, the Biden administration was able to evacuate some 124,000 people primarily through Kabul’s Hamid Karzai airport but also via overland routes. The fact that this number could be evacuated despite the chaotic conditions brought about by the collapse of the Ashraf Ghani administration, and the former president’s fleeing from the country, offers incontrovertible evidence of the resources — its own military and civilian resources, alongside those of its allies — the US could muster. This alone should suffice to establish its status as the sole superpower.

The US can also be commended for issuing licences permitting NGOs to provide assistance in Afghanistan without being held in violation of the US sanctions regime and permitting the drawing of funds by Taliban representatives for travel abroad.

The US claims it has, since 2002, provided humanitarian aid to the tune of $4 billion for refugees in Afghanistan and for Afghan refugees in the region. While this means little since much of this was wasted it is possible that the $330 million they have provided this fiscal year will be better utilised.

The Americans have acknowledged that the Taliban have helped in the evacuation and have not reneged on their promise to allow the departure of foreign nationals and those Afghans with valid travel documents. President Joe Biden’s statement that recognition of the Taliban is “a long way off” obviously strengthens the hardliners in Taliban ranks who are presumably making the case that their opponents are not showing any willingness to recognise the new reality in Afghanistan.

What this could mean is that the new reality in Afghanistan will also change or at least this is how one interprets reports of the divisions within Taliban ranks. The recent announcement of the expansion of the cabinet to include figures from the Panjshiris, the Uzbeks and Hazaras suggests that the moderates in Taliban ranks are still trying, albeit haltingly, to address international concerns about ‘inclusivity’.

The Americans have acknowledged, after a New York Times investigative report, that what was termed a “righteous strike” had in fact been a stri­­ke on a civilian vehicle killing a family of 10. One can be forgiven for believing that the strike was ordered for political reasons since Biden had promised “retribution” with the usual “strike auth­ori­t­ies, procedures and processes” being set aside. Now apologies have been offered and compensation promised but the damage has been done particularly to the Taliban leaders advocating moderation.

  • Will the Afghan Taliban entrust to the UN the responsibility of receiving and disbursing all aid?

Perhaps further damage has been done by the Australia-UK-US (AUKUS) agreement to provide Australia the wherewithal to acquire a nuclear-powered submarine as part of its arsenal to compete militarily with China in the South China Sea. The consequent cancellation of the Australian agreement to buy conventional submarines from France has caused understandable umbrage in France and undermined the transatlantic alliance.

It seems that despite US Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying that the US would use “diplomacy” rather than military force to advance its interests it is like Trump saying ‘my way or the highway’ with little or no regard for the interests of allies. This attitude, it is feared, will also be a determinant of US policy in Afghanistan.

There is some hope to be entertained in the light of the response to the appeal by UN Secretary General António Guterres for funding the relief programme for the Afghans and the determination of many NGOs with locally recruited staff to, in the words of a UN official, adopt the slogan of ‘Stay and Deliver’. The WFP programme has received pledges for the full $1.3bn it had sought.

The question is, will the Taliban and the expanded cabinet, be willing to entrust to the UN and its dedicated staff the responsibility of receiving and disbursing all aid, recruiting from neighbouring countries the experts who have already migrated or will do so? This is not as far-fetched as it sounds. In the years that they dominated the scene in Afghanistan it was often said that they would leave governance to experts while limiting themselves to overseeing the administration and keeping a check on corruption.

As regards the role of women, little attention has been paid in the international media to a report that Afghan women have set up organisations over six years of age (35 per cent) and others less than five years old (65pc) which have created 129,000 jobs largely but not exclusively for women working in handicrafts, food production and distribution of their products. Most of these organisations are not licensed.

If the Taliban want to prove that they do not want women to be discriminated against and will permit them to earn a living “within the framework of the Taliban interpretation of the dictates of Islam”, they can do so by permitting these organisations to continue to function and offer them the licensing they need under current Afghan law.

As far as Pakistan is concerned, we have done our bit by facilitating transfers of persons of all nationalities wishing to leave Afghanistan with proper documentation and helping Qatar make Kabul airport functional. We have provided more food and medical equipment etc. to the Afghan people than our limited resources would ordinarily permit.

This was not just a brotherly gesture but also a recognition that Afghanistan’s stability was a sine qua non for regional stability and in particular for the tribal areas now merged with KP. About 90pc of the Pak-Afghan border has been fenced. The rest must be completed.

The government must ensure that no matter what the opposition says there should be only one person, preferably a civilian like Ambassador Sadiq to talk about Afghanistan and to deal with the efforts being made to make Pakistan the scapegoat for what has happened in Afghanistan.

We must make sure that the regime in Afghanistan understands our concerns about the safe haven enjoyed by the TTP in Nangarhar. Our policy with regard to the TTP must also be thought through before anything is said publicly. ‘Least said soonest mended’ should be the wise words that guide our statements on Afghanistan.

The writer is a former foreign secretary.

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COURTESY DAWN NEWS

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Taliban unlikely to participate in UN General Assembly session

Taliban unlikely to participate in UN General Assembly session


UNITED NATIONS: Afghanis­tan’s new Taliban rulers are unlikely to speak at or represent their country in the current session of the UN General Assembly, diplomatic sources told Dawn.

Representatives of the previous Afghan government still occupy the Afghan mission at the United Nations. On Tuesday, they attended the session that US President Joe Biden addressed.

“They will continue to occupy the mission until the credentials committee takes a decision,” a diplomatic source said.

On Sept 15, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres received a letter from the currently accredited Afghan ambassador, Ghulam Isaczai, stating that he and other members of his team will represent Afghanistan in the UNGA session.

On Sept 20, the Taliban-controlled Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs also sent a communication to Mr Guterres, requesting to participate in the current UNGA. A Taliban leader, Ameer Khan Muttaqi, signed the letter as the new Afghan foreign minister.

Credentials committee to decide who will represent the country at UN

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric confirmed receiving both letters while talking to journalists in New York. Mr Muttaqi said in the letter that former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani was “ousted” on Aug 15 and therefore his envoy no longer represents Afghanistan, Mr Dujarric said.

The Taliban, however, are unlikely to get the slot by Sept 27, when Afghanistan is scheduled to address the General Assembly.

The sources who spoke to Dawn said the General Assembly’s nine-member credentials committee, which makes such decisions, is unlikely to meet before Sept 27. And even if it did, it cannot settle the dispute in the remaining two or three days.

The sources, however, confirmed that the Secretary General’s office has sent both letters to the committee after consultations with General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid of Maldives. The current members of the committee include the United States, Russia, China, Bahamas, Bhutan, Chile, Namibia, Sierra Leone and Sweden.

Diplomatic sources in Washington told Dawn that the United States was in no rush to endorse Taliban’s request for joining the UN as the legitimate Afghan government.

Speaking to various US media sources, senior US State Department officials said they were aware of the Taliban’s request but the deliberations “would take some time”, indicating that the Taliban representative would not address the UNGA on Sept 27.

One possibility, however, is not to allow Afghanistan’s current ambassador to address the gathering either because that would indicate support for the previous government, and would have wide-ranging repercussions.

But the former Afghan government still has support within the UN and apparently India is leading the campaign to let its envoy address the General Assembly.

Allowing a Taliban leader to address the General Assembly would be interpreted as the United Nations recognising the new arrangement in Kabul and the UN is not yet ready to do that.

When the Taliban last ruled from 1996 to 2001, the UN refused to recognise their government and instead gave Afghanistan’s seat to the previous government of President Burhanuddin Rabbani.

The US media noted that this time the UN could be lenient to the Taliban but only if they form a more inclusive government, guarantee humans, allow girls to return to schools and women to go to work.

On Tuesday, the Emir of Qatar joined Pakistan in urging world leaders gathered at the United Nations not to turn their backs on the country’s Taliban rulers.

Qatar hosted the US-Taliban talks and is also playing a key role in Afghanistan after the US withdrawal.

Speaking from the podium of the UN General Assembly, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani stressed “the necessity of continuing dialogue with Taliban because boycott only leads to polarization and reactions, whereas dialogue could bring in positive results”.

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COURTESY DAWN NEWS

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Experts highlight ways to develop stronger relations with regional countries

 

Experts highlight ways to develop stronger relations with regional countries

PESHAWAR/ISLAMABAD, SEPT 23: Two sessions were conducted on the second day of the two-day international conference (21st-22nd September) on ‘’Pakistan – Eurasian Heartland Connectivity: Towards Socio-Economic, Academic, and Legal Cooperation’’ held at Area Study Center (Russia, China & Central Asia), University of Peshawar, Peshawar.

The main goal of the International Conference was to enhance closer cooperation and connectivity within Eurasian countries. The objective was to deliberate upon the ways and means for enhancing trade, economic, cultural, educational, and industrial links between Pakistan and the Eurasian heartland for shared growth and prosperity.

Experts highlight ways to develop stronger relations with regional countries


The theme of the first session was Developing Trade and Economic Connectivity. Dr. Nadeem Ahmed Ch, Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Sialkot was Chair of the session.

He stated that Pakistan desires stronger relations with regional countries. He discussed the benefits and opportunities that Central Asian Republics can offer for Pakistan. Likewise, Pakistan has pivotal position for Central Asian countries in many fields.

Andrei Metelitsa, Ambassador of Belarus to Pakistan addressed the audience online. He stated that Belarus is enhancing its diplomatic efforts and global outreach for better regional integration. He stated that Eurasian Economic Union plays a vital role in regional connectivity and Belarus is also member of that forum.

Andrei Metelitsa stated that Asia is an important region for Belarus because of immense mineral potential and economic opportunities.  He also enlightened the audience about Pakistan-Belarus relations (economic, academic, military cooperation) and prospects for enhancing deep cooperation.

Prof. Dr. Mahboob Hussain, Chairman, Department of History and Political Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore gave speech on Reviving Historical Silk Routes with Central Asia.  He gave a detailed historical background of the Silk route, connecting many countries. 

He stated that such routes are vibrant in the present times and enhance socioeconomic and cultural linkages among different nations. Prof. Dr. Mahboob stated that Central and South Asia have great historical and cultural linkages.

The legacy of great dynasties in South Asia were established in Central Asia.  He discussed that trade routes have created more cooperation than challenges.  He also shared analysis on revival of Silk Route in the contemporary times and gave suggestions for enhanced connectivity.

Professor Sohail Shahzad, Former Vice Chancellor, Hazara University and Professor, Law College, University of Peshawar enlightened the audience about Legal Framework for Regional Cooperation and Existing Problems. He stated that international laws are the direct outcomes of trade. 

He stated that for competitive advantage in products and its trade, international laws help to resolve conflicts among countries. As demand and supply of products require regulatory or legal regimes. Prof. Sohail Shahzad stated that the rule of law and order is significant to sustain economy. Therefore, trade regulations are necessary to manage economies of states worldwide.

Dr. Hussain Shaheed Soherwordi, Chairman, Department of International Relations, University of Peshawar enlightened the audience about Central & South Asian Regional Connectivity: Relevance & Prospects for Economic Cooperation.

He stated that there is an international academic disconnect. Therefore, connectivity is a dire need of time because international relations dynamics are changing. He stated that there is an international academic disconnect.

Hussain discussed that BRI, CPEC, CASA, TAPI, all are connectivity or development projects that will enhance regional and people-to-people contacts.

Mr. Hassan Daud Butt, Chief Executive Officer, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Investment and Trade (KP-BOIT)shared his views on Enhancing Regional Connectivity: Towards a Regional Arrangement for Cross-Border Economic Activities. He highlighted despite sharing geographical proximity, we live in a least integrated region.

The region needs to be integrated with the aim to promote trade relationships as a prosperous and more developed South Asian region can help the region in creating better employment opportunities.  Economic growth will also help in playing a major role in bridging the trust deficit.

He also highlighted that Connectivity of Policy is possible through forging strong synergy and broadening extensive consultation for harmonizing policies that we need to develop dynamic, multi-pronged approach to adopt new policy instruments and formulate structural reform in order to make space for added growth and sustainable economic momentum on “win-win principles”.

Lastly, he recommended that Academia, think tanks and research organizations need to play a significant role in enhancing better cooperation from the grassroots to the top-level administrative units.

Prof. Dr. Adam Saud, Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Bahria University, Islamabad gave online speech on Pakistan-Eurasia: Building Greater Trans-Regional Connectivity. He gave a detailed presentation on Pakistan’s economic and strategic potential.

He also explained Pakistan relations, military cooperation,and trade linkages with Eurasian countries.  Dr. Adam also discussed recent developments between Central Asia and Pakistan for inclusive economic progress projects.

 He shed light on Afghanistan’s importance for trans-regional cooperation. He stated that people-to-people connectivity is significant. In this regard, best example can be witness from China-Pakistan friendship.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khan, Professor, Department of Politics & International Relations, International Islamic University, Islamabad expressed his views on Pakistan’s Foreign Policy Contours for Eurasian Region. He stated that foreign policy is the instrument of international relations between states. Likewise, diplomacy is the instrument of foreign policy, which paved the way for political achievements and economic uplift.

He gave a detailed overview of historical background of countries relationship and international relations. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khan discussed Pakistan’s foreign policy contours towards Eurasian countries, especially Central Asian countries.

He stated that foreign policy of Pakistan is important and laid down the foundation for cooperation between Central and South Asia. He expressed his views that with peace in Afghanistan, more prospects for collaboration would be created between Central and South Asia.

The theme of the second session was Regional Connectivity: The Academic Perspective. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab, Lahorewas the Chair of the session.

Professor Inayat, Principal, Khyber Law College, University of Peshawar presented speech on Lawfare Challenges to Regional Connectivity and Counter Mechanism. He stated that we need to understand nature and background of laws. He explained that international law contains broad principles and norms.

No country can achieve benefits without having connectivity and connectivity requires regulations for smooth relationship. Prof. Inayat also shed light on the concept of regionalism. He gave detailed overview of regulatory regimes to overcome common challenges in present times.

Dr. Fazal Wahid, Area Study Centre (Russia, China, & Central Asia) University of Peshawar enlightened the audience about Afghanistan: Prospects and Challenges to Regional Connectivity.  He gave detailed overview of Afghanistan’s situation amid historical background and recent scenarios.

He also discussed flawed U.S. policies in Afghanistan. He stated that once Afghanistan was the hub of regional trade activities.  He suggested that there must be an agreement between regional countries that all spoilers must be kept out of the region so that peace in Afghanistan can prevail.

Dr. Khurram Iqbal, Head of International Relations Department, National Defence University (NDU), Islamabad presented speech on Regionalization in South Asia: Prospects & Challenges for Pakistan. He gave five major reasons that hindered regionalization in South Asia.  He stated that despite having opportunities, South Asia is the least regionalized region. Dr. Khurram Iqbal stated that for regionalization, a strong support from global hegemon is always needed. 

However, in case of South Asia, India has not played its productive role to promote regionalization. He also shed light on the civilizational linkages between Central and South Asia. He suggested that we should opt for untapped existing potential in Central Asia.

Dr. Minhas Majeed Marwat, Department of International Relations, University of Peshawar discussed China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Regional Integration. She stated that regional connectivity helps countries to overcome barriers. 

It allows countries to enhance cooperation in many diverse fields, i.e., transport system, smooth flow of goods & services, ideas, and innovation. Dr. Minhas stated that CPEC will enhance multidimensional cooperation not only between China and Pakistan, but also other regional states.

She stated that CPEC can be a journey towards regionalization in a globalized world. She stated that Pakistan has been playing a significant role for regional peace and integration.

Dr. Musawar Hussain Bukhari, Chairman, Political Science Department, Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB), Bahawalpur gave speech on Role of Academia in Enhancing Regional Connectivity. He stated that socioeconomic, legal and academia are playing their role for the sake of connectivity, development, peace and prosperity. 

He explained that authority, socio-cultural dynamics and academia are the pillars.  In this regard, academia has three major roles. Dr. Musawar Hussain emphasized on the important role of academia and researcher for regional connectivity.

Mr. Muhammad Yaqoob, Registrar, University of Sialkot enlightened the audience about Central & South Asia Connectivity: Exploring Grounds for Joint Ventures in Academic Cooperation. He stated that connectivity empowers to achieve more towards shared causes and joint ventures.

He enlightened the audience that Central and South Asia have been connected. Mr. Yaqoob gave a detailed background of great historical and spiritual scholars of Central Asia towards Pakistan in terms of research, innovation, spiritual journey and peace. 

He suggested that there should be high-level exchange programs between Pakistan’s and Central Asian countries to enhance academic cooperation.

Mr. Rahmat Ullah, Advisor to Vice Chancellor, Director Center for Innovation and Competitiveness Studies, University of Sialkot talked about role of universities and academia in regional connectivity.  He stated that the trade balance between Central and South Asia must be incorporated with right set of policy measures.

He also provided fruitful suggestions for enhanced research and regional cooperation in many diverse fields with the changing dynamics of regions.

Prof. Dr. Shabir Ahmad Khan, Director, Area Study Centre (Russia, China, & Central Asia) University of Peshawar presented vote of thanks. He expressed his gratitude to all speakers, participants, session chairs, and co-organizers for making this two-day international conference a success.

Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram (Retd), Executive Director, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad gave the closing remarks. He stated that there must be an integrated forum for regional cooperation. 

Therefore, through the joint efforts, all established centers, i.e., Regional Integration Center, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Eurasian Industrial Research Center, University of Sialkot, Sialkot and Area Study Center (China, Russia & Central Asia) University of Peshawar have been playing a pivotal role for regional integration.

The two-day international conference was well attended by the worthy Ambassadors of various countries to Pakistan and renowned scholars, experts, academicians, and policy makers of Pakistan.

The conference has proved to a milestone development as it provided a platform to integrate Ambassadors of various countries and enhance academic learning.

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Wednesday, 22 September 2021

Electric Vehicles and Solar Energy

Electric Vehicles and Solar Energy


ISLAMABAD, SEPT 22: With Pakistan’s first-ever and still quite ambitious National Electric Vehicles Policy (NEVP) already approved by the authorities and finally set in place to facilitate the green transformation in the automotive industry, it is time to think about the feasibility of this new eco-friendly plan. At the same time, the industry leaders, government officials, and base consumers have some questions that must be answered before taking the leap of faith for a new EV-powered Pakistan.

In this blog post by Zonergy, our experts will try to explore the core infrastructure-related issues while opting for EVs and present a viable research-oriented solution for them.

Why it is THE time to say no to fossil fuels?

According to a policy document by the Ministry of Climate Change Pakistan, hydrocarbons-powered transportation is one of the biggest causes of Greenhouse Gas emissions, accounting for a whopping 43% of the airborne emissions in the country. The air quality index in most of our developed cities usually stays below the average and we are losing precious lives, talented minds, and hardworking workforce to this deadly air pollution.

The loss of valuable human resources is then followed by a massive oil import bill of about USD 13 billion. (Just for a quick reference that equals 2,201,980,300,000 in Pakistani Rupees). This heavy oil import bill coupled with the current account deficit has always proven to be a source of disequilibrium for our economic stability and growth.

According to a report by LUMS, if our transport sector continues to grow at the same double-digit rate, the bill for oil import is expected to reach an alarming USD 30 billion by 2025. Ask yourself, are we really able to afford this loss considering the circumstances we are facing?

Electric Vehicles (EVs) - the only possible way out for Pakistan

In order for us to overcome these health, economic, and human resource challenges, we must decrease our dependence on fossil fuels and hydrocarbon-powered vehicles. We must switch to electricity-driven vehicles.

Firstly, EVs do not emit any unhealthy pollutants so their adoption by Pakistani drivers will curb harmful gas emissions to a large extent. Secondly, as the rising trade deficit is one of the major reasons behind stagnant economic growth in Pakistan, shifting to EVs will significantly reduce the oil import bill - which is certainly the largest import commodity for Pakistan. More than that, EVs carry with themselves the potential to set up a whole new manufacturing and services industry in our country, leading to the creation of multiple green businesses and employment opportunities (an estimated 3,000,000 new jobs). And all of that while uplifting the overall socio-economic situation of our country.

Talking about the momentary aspects of this transformation, if the target penetration of the first five years is achieved as planned, Pakistan will conservatively get around PKR 110 Billion yearly in savings and earnings.

Okay, so EVs are the best possible option available at the moment. Now to maximize this transformation’s benefits, we have to make sure that the electricity for EVs should not come from burning fossil fuels or hydrocarbons.

Rather, we should employ the available renewable energy technologies (like solar and wind) to our advantage and use them as our major sources of power, energy, and movement.

Electric Vehicles and Solar Energy - a match made in Heaven!

Expressing the same concern, the CEO of a notable engineering company reported in an interview that 30,000 EVs were estimated to consume 1 percent of Pakistan’s total generation capacity.

That leads us to our next question, how is Pakistan going to power all those sweet eco-friendly EVs? As a starting option, the government can surely rely on grid supply to power up the initial batches of EVs. But this model requires a lot, lot of infrastructure development and would definitely take quite a long time.

Another simpler, efficient, and quicker solution is to promote and adopt solar energy solutions to facilitate the continued use of EVs among Pakistani consumers.

Here is a quick and amazing fact before we sign off!

Fact: Only 10 solar panels can yield sufficient electric power to let an EV drive 21,000 kilometers in one year.

Final Words

Zonergy, being a Market Leader in the solar industry provides state-of-the-art Solar Solutions to its users. We look forward to supplying the Pakistani government and people with the necessary technology and equipment for a green, clean, and more connected EV-driven Pakistan. Explore our A-Grade solar solutions by clicking the link below:

https://www.zonergy.com.pk

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Metro installs the first ever electric vehicle charging station in Lahore

 

Metro installs the first ever electric vehicle charging station in Lahore

LAHORE, SEPT 22: In another first, METRO Pakistan reaffirms its commitment towards “Environment Sustainability” and being a responsible business by installing first ever Fast Charging Station for Electric Vehicles (EV) at any retail store in Pakistan.

The Electric Charging Station was inaugurated by Marek Minkiewicz, Managing Director, METRO Pakistan Private Limited and Mr. Ahmad Najeeb, Chief Executive Officer, Albario Engineering Private Limited (AEPL) at METRO Thokar Niaz Beg Store in Lahore.

The ABB Terra 54 presents an opportunity for the people of Lahore and those visiting to charge their Electric Vehicles in a short period with a range of available charging ports to facilitate any type of EV vehicle.

This collaboration with AEPL and ABB is another step taken by METRO Pakistan to supports the Clean and Green Pakistan initiative of the Government. METRO plans to live up to its commitment to Environmental Stability and Sustainability by providing Renewable Charging Solutions to its visitors and looking forward to add more EV Charging Stations in the coming months.

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President Arif Alvi takes notice of a Bionic Films production trying to change mindsets

President Arif Alvi takes notice of a Bionic Films production trying to change mindsets


ISLAMABAD, SEPT 22: Health has always been an increasingly important agenda for our government and our President. Recently the President of Pakistan took to his Twitter account and shared an important message, along with an ad film produced by Bionic Films for KhairKhwah.

In Pakistan people usually hide behind a ‘brown bag’, and they avoid conversations that are considered taboo. They either feel too ashamed to discuss such matters or are afraid of what others might think about them. Bionics Films, however, did a terrific job highlighting the importance of starting a conversation about such topics.

The ad campaign launched in July and continues to play an important role when it comes to spreading awareness for family planning and the health of women and children. The President also took notice of the campaign and advocated for the key message behind it.

“Health in my country is closely related to the health of the mother & child. We as a nation must prioritize what is important and manage the family for a prosperous Pakistan. Take care of numbers & ensure good health. Don’t ignore, recognize, discuss, communicate and propagate.” Wrote Dr. Alvi on his Twitter.

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