Associated Press of Pakistan
News Summary
28- 05-2002
India creating war hysteria, Pakistan not to initiate war: Gen. Musharraf
ISLAMABAD, may 27 (APP)- Slamming Indian leadership for creating war hysteria, President General Pervez Musharraf told the world fraternity Monday Pakistan will not be the one to initiate war. The allegations "with aggressive overtones" show "highly irresponsible behaviour" on the part of the Indian leadership, the President said while addressing the nation on PTV and PBC networks. "This increases the heat of war and creates war hysteria," he said. "This is unacceptable to us." On the contrary, Gen. Musharraf said, "despite such provocations, we have exercised restraint and adopted sane policy." But the President made it amply clear "this should never be construed as our weakness." Pakistan has continued to build up its defences and would continue to do so, he added.
The President said we do not want war, but warned: "If war is thrust upon us, we would respond with full might and give a befitting reply." The President said he would like to convey message to the world community that Pakistan does not want war. "Pakistan will not be the one to initiate war. We want peace in the region." President Musharraf assured the world community that Pakistan was doing nothing across the Line of Control (LoC) "and, Pakistan will never allow the export of terrorism anywhere in the world from within Pakistan." In this respect, he referred to his January 12 address in which he had announced that Pakistan soil would not be allowed to be used for terrorism against anybody. "I repeat, we will not allow this," he emphatically stated. "I want to tell the world and give the assurance that no infiltration is taking place across the Line of Control (LoC)." But, the President said he wants to make one thing quite clear "liberation movement is going on in occupied Kashmir and Pakistan cannot be held responsible for any action against the Indian tyranny and repression." The President said Pakistan is a responsible state. He said Pakistan has taken very bold steps and initiatives since his speech on January 12. He urged the world community to ask India to move towards normalization of relations- de-escalation and reduction of tension on the borders- which he said is of mutual benefit to both countries. He also asked the world community to urge India for initiation of process of dialogue, cessation of atrocities being perpetuated on the people of Kashmir, allowing international media and Human rights organizations to enter Kashmir and see the realities on ground.
He also urged the world that "they must take note of the atrocities being committed by the Hindu extremists and terrorists in Kashmir, in Gujarat and elsewhere in India and against Muslims, Christians Sikhs and also their own schedule caste. But, the President regretted, "unfortunately, we have not seen any positive response." The President said he wants to give a message to his Kashmiri brethren and sisters that Kashmir is in the heart of every Pakistani. He assured Pakistan would fulfill its duty of providing moral, political and diplomatic support to the cause of Kashmir. "Pakistan will always support the Kashmiri struggle for liberation." Referring to the situation on the border, the President said the enemy's forces are deployed on borders. The enemy had brought forward its army, navy and air force." He said the Indian forces are being faced by Pakistan Army, Navy and Air Force and they are serving as a bulwark.
The entire nation, he said, is with the Armed Forces and will shed last drop of their blood but would not allow any harm to come to the motherland. "Tension is at its height. The danger of war is not yet over." Making an assessment of the beginning of the tension, the President said there was an attack on the Indian Parliament on December 13, 2001. "This was terrorist attack which we had fully condemned and said that it was a terrorist attack." But, he said the Indian leadership acted in a hasty manner and adopted extremely irresponsible behaviour. "This was a demonstration of their traditional enmity towards Pakistan." By showing enmity towards Pakistan, he stated, the Indians put the blame on us, and consequently, brought their forces on the border. He said, though, the tension was building up, yet some improvement in the situation was being witnessed when there was an attack on a Garrison in Jammu on May 14 in which many civilians were killed. "We felt sad about it as we believe that targeting any civilian in such a manner is a terrorist attack. We condemned this, and we think that whosoever is involved in such terrorist attack also wants to de-stabilise Pakistan," he stated. The President said, he understood this and the whole world knew that there were many acts of terrorism in Pakistan also. "There was an attack on our Church in which many foreigners were killed. Later on some French nationals were killed in a suicide bomber attack in Karachi. But we did not blame India for these attacks. We did not increase tension." The President said such acts of terrorism are being committed by those people, organisations or such groups who want to destabilise Pakistan, "We condemn them." But, he said this should not become a justification for increasing tension. Referring to the tragic killing of Abdul Ghani Lone, the President described it as a "very sad incident." Lone, he said was an important member of the All Parties' Hurriyet Conference. "We are extremely grieved over his martyrdom." The President pointed out the blame for this was at once put by Indian on Pakistan and ISl. "I would like to ask Indian authorities that at a place where a public meeting was being held and thousands of people were present and thousands of army troops deployed all around, how come, those who had martyred Abdul Ghani Lone had disappeared." "Did they vanish in the air." He said we still have no clue about them, whereas, in all other previous attacks all those allegedly involved were either killed or apprehended. "They were always dubbed as ISI agents." He, however, asked as to where the killers of Abdul Ghani Lone have disappeared. "We want to know about this." "I would like to say that all these allegations with aggressive overtones show highly irresponsible behaviour on the past of Indian leadership. This increases the heat of war and creates war hysteria. This is unacceptable to us." "We do not want war. But if war is thrust upon us, we would respond with full might, and give a befitting reply," he added. Pakistan, the President said was currently passing through a critical juncture. "We are faced with a grave situation and we are standing at the cross road of history. Today's decision will have serious internal and external effects on our future." He said under the present situation, consultation was very important. "I want to take you fully into confidence. I have met journalists, all the politicians and Kashmiri leaders for consultations and I had very useful discussions with them." He thanked those politicians who met him and informed him of their views. But, he regretted that there were some politicians who did not come to the consultative meeting. "At this critical juncture, national unity is the need of the hour," he said while adding: "We must all think in terms of national interest by rising above personal and party interests." The President said many politicians advised him that he should again invite those politicians who did not come to meet him. "I accepted their advice and I have invited them again, and meetings with them are continuing."
Gen. Musharraf said he was again inviting all of them through this address to the nation. "I want to remove their doubts and apprehensions through consultations with them." President Musharraf said the process of true democracy will begin in the month of October and elections will be held between 7th and 11th of the same month. "This is my promise to the nation that these elections will be fair and transparent." The President said the Government would invite all those foreign observors who wish to monitor these elections.
About referendum, the President said he most sincerely wanted to assure the nation that no official interference of any kind was permitted. The proof of this, he said is that it was for the first time that the army was not deployed at the polling stations. So that the impression is not created that the army was being used. "Therefore, the Army was deliberately kept away," he added. Gen. Musharraf said he was confident that all those who had never exercised their right to franchise were going to cast their votes in his favour. "I also knew that the young generation particularly those between the ages of 18 and 21 as well as the minorities wanted to vote for me and they did cast their votes," he added.
The President said he wanted to give a special message to his countrymen. "We are not a nation to be intimidated by enemy's threat. We would face the situation with courage and restraint." Islam, he said is a religion of peace. "Islam teaches us the lesson of peace, justice and prosperity." "But if war is thrust, then the Muslim is not afraid of it and does not step back. He enters the battlefield by raising the slogan of 'Allaho-Akbar' in order that he becomes Ghazi or embrace martyrdom." "A situation somewhat like this is prevailing today. Atrocities are being perpetrated on Kashmiris. The enemy is trying to intimidate us by hurling threats of war. Our national security, honour and dignity are being challenged. The armed forces of Pakistan are in a state of ever preparedness." The President said the entire nation stood united and is imbued with the spirit to defend the homeland and was ready to render all sacrifices. Gen. Musharraf thanked the nation for reposing full confidence in him and added, with the help of Allah Almighty and their support, he would come up to their expectations in this hour of trial and tribulation.
Pakistan not to allow export of terrorism: Gen. Musharraf
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP)- President General Pervez Musharraf Monday assured the world community that Pakistan would never allow export of terrorism anywhere in the world from within the country. "Pakistan was doing nothing across the Line of Control (LoC) and, it will never allow the export of terrorism anywhere in the world from within Pakistan." Addressing the nation over PTV and PBC networks, the President referred to his January 12 address in which he had announced that Pakistan's soil would not be allowed to be used for terrorism against anybody. "I repeat, we will not allow this," he emphatically stated. "I want to tell the world and give the assurance that no infiltration is taking place across the Line of Control (LoC)." But, the President said he wants to make one thing quite clear "liberation movement is going on in occupied Kashmir and Pakistan cannot be held responsible for any action against the Indian tyranny and repression." The President said Pakistan is a responsible state. He said Pakistan has taken very bold steps and initiatives since his speech of January 12.
But, the President regretted, "unfortunately, we have not seen any positive response" from the Indian side. He urged the world community to ask India to move towards normalisation of relations - de-escalation and reduction of tension on the borders - which, he said, is of mutual benefit to both countries. He also asked the world community to urge India for initiation of process of dialogue, cessation of atrocities being perpetuated on the people of Kashmir, allowing international media and Human rights organisations to enter Kashmir and see the realities on ground. He also urged the world that "they must take note of the atrocities being committed by the Hindu extremists and terrorists in Kashmir, in Gujarat and elsewhere in India and against Muslims, Christians Sikhs and also their own schedule caste.
9 martyred 25 injured due to Indian firing
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Indian Army continued indiscriminate and unprovoked firing and shelling across the Working Boundary and Line of Control on Monday. In the firing nine persons including two women embraced shahadat while 25 others were injured at different places due to enemy's firing and shelling during the last 24 hours. Indian Army targeted civilians with automatic weapons, medium and field artillery, mortars and rocket launchers in Zafarwal, Marajkay and Shakargarh sub sectors of the Working Boundary.
Seven civilians including two women were martyred and 18 others sustained injuries. Property owned by the civilians was also badly damaged by the enemy firing and shelling. The Indian Army also opened firing and shelling on civilian population in Cherikot, Batal, Satwal and Dudhial along the Line of Control AJK. Two civilians were martyred while seven were injured. The injured were immediately rushed to the nearby hospitals where they are being provide medical treatment. Pakistan Army promptly responded and targeted the hostile Indian gun positions and forward bunkers causing considerable damage.
Elections to be held between Oct. 7-11: Gen. Musharraf
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP)- President General Pervez Musharraf Monday said the process of true democracy will begin in the month of October and elections will be held between 7th and 11th of the same month. "This is my promise to the nation that these elections will be fair and transparent." Addressing the nation, the President said the Government would invite all those foreign observors who wish to monitor these elections. About referendum, the President said he most sincerely wanted to assure the nation that no official interference of any kind was permitted. The proof of this, he said is that it was for the first time that the army was not deployed at the polling stations. So that the impression is not created that the army was being used. "Therefore, the Army was deliberately kept away," he added. Gen. Musharraf said he was confident that all those who had never exercised their right to franchise were going to cast their votes in his favour. "I also knew that the young generation particularly those between the ages of 18 and 21 as well as the minorities wanted to vote for me and they did cast their votes," he added.
Pakistan, he said was currently passing through a critical juncture. "We are faced with a grave situation and we are standing at the cross road of history. Today's decision will have serious internal and external effects on our future." He said under the present situation, consultation was very important. "I want to take you fully into confidence. I have met journalists, all the politicians and Kashmiri leaders for consultations and I had very useful discussions with them." He thanked those politicians who met him and informed him of their views. But, he regretted that there were some politicians who did not come to the consultative meeting.
"At this critical juncture, national unity is the need of the hour," he said while adding: "We must all think in terms of national interest by rising above personal and party interests." The President said many politicians advised him that he should again invite those politicians who did not come to meet him. "I accepted their advice and I have invited them again, and meetings with them are continuing." Gen. Musharraf said he was again inviting all of them through this address to the nation. "I want to remove their doubts and apprehensions through consultations with them." President Musharraf said he had the support of the labour in the April 30 Referendum." The labour union leaders extended me total support from every part of Pakistan.' Besides, he said, all Chambers of Commerce were supporting him.
"People in the rural areas and the masses were in my favour," he added The President said, he, however, was getting some unofficial reports that at lower level due to unnecessary enthusiasm and carelessness, inefficiency and ignorance there might have been some improper case of voting in some areas. He said, if that was true, he regretted it from the core of his heart. The President said, he felt sad about it, particularly because, he added, even his well-wishers, who had always supported him, have felt that such things should not have happened.
Highlights of President Musharraf's address to Nation
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Following are the highlights of President General Pervez Musharraf's address to the nation on Monday (May 27).
- "The entire nation is with the armed forces".
- "Pakistan is currently passing through a critical juncture."
- "National unity is need of the hour."
- "Tension (between Pakistan and India" is at its height."
- India reacted in hasty and irresponsible manner to attack on its parliament.
- "By showing enmity towards Pakistan, they put the blame on us and consequently brought their forces on the border."
- Martyrdom of Abdul Ghani Lone was a very sad incident.
- Did those who martyred Lone vanish in the air?
- Slams India for increasing heat of war and creating war hysteria.
- "We have exercised restraint and adopted a wise and sane policy."
- "This should never be construed as our weakness."
- "Pakistan is a responsible state."
- Pakistan not to allow its soil to be used for terrorism against anybody.
- "No infiltration is taking place across the LoC."
- "Liberation movement is going on in occupied Kashmir."
- "Pakistan cannot be held responsible for any action against the Indian tyranny and repression."
- "We do not want war."
- "If war is thrust upon us, we would respond with full might, and give a befitting reply."
- "Pakistan will not be the one to initiate war."
- Urges world community to ask India move towards normalisation of relations.
- Asks world community to take note of atrocities being committed by Hindu extremists and terrorists in Kashmir in Gujarat and elsewhere in India and against Muslims, Christians Sikhs and also their own schedule cast.
- "Kashmir resides is in the heart of every Pakistani."
- Pakistan to continue moral, political and diplomatic support to the cause of Kashmir.
- "Pakistan will always support the Kashmiri struggle for liberation."
- "I shall come up to your (nation's) expectations in this hour of trial and tribulation."
- "Elections will be held between October 7-11".
- Desirous Foreign Observers to be invited for Oct. elections.
- President re-invites politicians for Consultation on Pakistan-India standoff
- "No official interference of any kind was permitted during the referendum."
- Young generation and minorities wanted and did vote for me in the Referendum.
- "I had the support of the labour."
- "All Chambers of Commerce were supporting me."
- "People in the rural areas and the masses were in any favour."
Japan to send Deputy FM to Pakistan, India
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Japan is sending its Deputy Foreign Minister on a visit to Pakistan and India to hold talks aimed at de-escalating tension in the region, PTV reported. Addressing the parliament in Tokyo on Monday, Japanese Foreign Minister asked Pakistan and India to start negotiations for resolution of issues.
Chinese, U.S. FMs discuss India-Pakistan situation
BEIJING, May 27 (APP) Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan discussed the India-Pakistan situation with U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell over the phone Monday, calling for more balanced and fairer attitude from the international community to encourage direct dialogue between the two South Asian nations, official sources told APP. China is very concerned about the development of the India- Pakistan situation, and will spare no effort to promote reconciliation, so that the tension between India and Pakistan can be eased, Tang said. The international community should adopt a more balanced and fairer attitude to encourage direct dialogue between the two nations, Tang said, describing dialogue as the "most effective" measure for guiding the situation in South Asia onto the track leading to peace and stability. Powell said he had talked with Pakistan's President Pervez Musharraf over the phone, expressing concern from the United States over the India-Pakistan situation, as well as the expectation that the two sides would take measures to ease the present tension.
Pakistan not to allow use of its soil for terrorism: Nisar Memon
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Information Minister Nisar Memon Monday said Pakistan will not allow use of its soil for terrorism in another country. Talking in a CNN programme Q&A, he said, "Pakistan government totally deny allegations that there is cross border terrorism." President General Pervez Musharraf has again reiterated that there is no export of terrorism from Pakistani soil, he said adding, "We continue to say that we will not allow use of Pakistani soil for terrorism." President Musharraf has again offered a message of peace and dialogue. He has very clearly said that we are willing to have dialogue with India on all outstanding issues including that of Kashmir, the Minister mentioned.
He said India must understand that a freedom struggle is going in Indian occupied Kashmir. Responding to a statement of Indian Minister of State for External Affairs Omar Abdullah, the Information Minister said, "it is a very positive sign that they (India) are willing to have a dialogue." The Indian Minister while taking part in the programme said they have no problem talking to Pakistan. Nisar Memon said India must understand that the terror that India talks about is that of its armed forces in the Indian Occupied Kashmir where 80,000 people have been martyred so far.
Pakistan
and the international community is facing terrorism. Pakistan never
pointed finger towards India when there was an attack in Karachi where
French nationals were killed and
when a church was attacked in Islamabad, he added. He said India blames
Pakistan whenever anything happens in Kashmir. "When Jammu incident took
place we condemned it but
immediately
without any investigation India pointed finger towards Pakistan."
Russia opens military supply line for India: HT
New Delhi, May 27: (APP): India's declaration of a "decisive response" to Pakistan has received a big boost from its strategic partner, Russia. Though Russian President Vladimir Putin is advocating restraint and has also offered to broker peace, Russia has reportedly begun supplying emergency military hardware to New Delhi to meet the 'Pakistan challenge, reports 'Hindustan Times'. Back-channel diplomacy has also resulted in Moscow extending 'logistical support', including intelligence on Azad Jammu and Kashmir to Indian security agencies. Significantly, Moscow has indicated to New Delhi that if the need arises, it will exercise its 'veto' in India's favour at the UN Security Council. During the 1971 war, the then Soviet Union had similarly acted on four occasions to prevent India from being declared the 'aggressor.' Sources disclosed that Russia has already diverted emergency military hardware from the stocks of its Red Army. These include spares for MiG aircraft, artillery systems and other defence equipment to meet India's emergency war requirements.
"To meet India's needs, we have waived off some regulations to reach material on a priority basis," said a diplomatic source. While agreeing to militarily back India under the 1993 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, the Putin administration hasn't evidently given up the diplomatic option. Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov had earlier this week spoken to External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh and assured him of his country's full support. "We have told India that war should be avoided but in case Pakistan does not respond to India's demands and a military operation happens, Moscow will play its role as New Delhi's strategic partner," Hindustan Times source added.
No change in Kashmir policy, pressure on India for talks: Nisar
ISLAMABAD,
May 27 (APP): Information Minister Nisar Memon Monday ruled out any change
in Pakistan's principled stance on Kashmir and stated that the
international pressure is now on New Delhi for dialogue on outstanding
disputes. "There has been no change in Pakistan's principled
stand on Kashmir and it is the same," he underscored in reply to a
journalist's question after meeting JUI (F) Chief Maulana Fazal ur
Rehman. Nisar said, Kashmir is a disputed territory under
Indian
occupation and the people there are waging a freedom struggle.
He said, Islamabad has always been for negotiated settlement of all outstanding issues including the Kashmir dispute. "We extended a hand of friendship in Agra and we will be happy to hold dialogue on Kashmir with India which is now under tremendous international pressure to talk to Pakistan." The Minister said, Pakistan welcomed the Russian initiative of a meeting in Almaty, Kazakhzstan and now Indian reaction remains to be seen. He emphasized that war is not a solution to any problems but if a war is imposed on Pakistan, the country will retaliate tellingly. Nisar told journalists after a meeting with JI Amir Qazi Hussain Ahmed that Pakistani troops have been retaliating effectively to Indian shelling on civilians along the Line of Control and working boundary.
He
asked New Delhi to respond to the international concern on its reign of
repression in Occupied Kashmir where 80000 people have been killed in the
freedom struggle. He also asked India to explain to the world concern on
the recent spate of violence in Gujarat, gross violations of all human
rights there and the killing of APHC leader Abdul Ghani Lone. About the
current series of missile tests, he said, Pakistan will carry out these as
announced between May 25 and 28.
Replying to a query about some countries' reaction to Pakistani missile
tests he said: "India has said that they are not impressed by these
tests - the tests have been carried out for technical purposes as an
internal requirement - so they should see Indian reaction." Nisar
pointed out that India has conducted 10 to 12 missile tests since April
1999 while the current
series of
tests is the first by Pakistan since then.
Contingency plans reviewed to meet emergent situation
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Contingency plans of all line departments to deal with any emergent situation were reviewed, assessed and finalized at a meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Islamabad Tariq Muhamood Khan here Monday. Meeting was attended by the representatives of all line departments including Civil Defence, Sui Gas, WAPDA, PTCL, CDA, Pak. PWD, Federal Directorate of Education, Hospitals and officials of District Administration, Islamabad.
Deputy Commissioner who also is Controller Civil Defence, informed the meeting that the District Administration has nominated 16 Coordinating Officers to ensure effective coordination and updating the contingency plans of line departments. He said that a Crisis Management Cell has been established in the Office of Additional Deputy Commissioner (G), Islamabad with Telephone Nos. 9260044 and 9261504 which is also maintaining close coordination with these departments. List of focal points has also been finalized, he added.
The representatives of line departments gave detailed briefing regarding their security plan one by one and informed that security plans prepared by them are being implemented. The Deputy Commissioner appreciated the preparedness of departments. He also elaborated about the responsibilities of all the line departments in case of any emergency. He directed the departments to get their "Razakars" reactivated and arrange further training of volunteers in Civil Defence for which the services of Civil Defence Organization are available. SSP, Islamabad Syed Kaleem Imam informed the meeting that Islamabad Police has also prepared a Contingency Plan to deal with any situation effectively. He said that the representatives of departments may also contact Rescue 15 for any help from ICT Police.
Samata-BJP ties again on brink over RS seat
New Delhi May 27 (APP): The Samata Party has given a two-day ultimatum to its ally, the BJP, asking it to withdraw its nominee for the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Jharkhand, whereas the BJP has ruled out any change in the decision of its central parliamentary board to contest for the seat. As a pressure tactics, all five Samata Party ministers resigned from the Babulal Marandi government in Jharkhand on Saturday. On a directive from the Samata's central leadership, the ministers -- state Parliamentary Affairs and Water Resources Minister Ram Chandra Kesri, Revenue and Land Reforms Minister Madhu Singh, Excise Minister and state party chief Ramesh Singh Munda, Urban Development Minister Bachcha Singh and Public Health Engineering Department Minister Jaleswar Mahato - sent their resignation letters to Chief Minister Babulal Marandi,according to this correspondent.
The Marandi Government does not enjoy a majority in the 82-member Jharkhand Assembly following the ministers' resignations. Its strength stood at 40, thus needing the support of two more MLAs to stay in power. Even if the lone Anglo-Indian member supports the BJP, it would still need one more vote to scrape through. However, BJP general secretary Pyarelal Khandelwal, who heads the party's north zone, including Jharkhand, said, "We do not foresee a big crisis between the BJP and the Samata Party, whose leaders are very mature." He ruled out any change in the BJP's decision to contest for the seat because it has 33 MLAs in the state as against the Samata's five, who were all made ministers. Samata Party spokesperson Shambu Srivastav, however, said, "As of now we're part of the NDA. But this development will definitely create its own stresses and strains in the relationship." BJP sources said Marandi is not likely to accept their resignation. The RS seat fell vacant following the death of DN Sahay, who had entered the Upper House on a Samata ticket. Jharkhand BJP chief Abhay Kant Prasad is the party's nominee while the Samata fielded Raj Kishore Mahato for the poll on May 30.
Four PWG ultras killed, newsman held for spying
New Delhi, May 27 (APP): A newsman, associated with a Ranchi-based Hindi daily in Bihar and alleged to be an important link of the banned People's War Group, was arrested during an encounter in which four PWG ultras were killed in Jharkhand's Palamu district Sunday, official sources said. The two-hour long encounter took place when a joint team of district police and CRPF were ambushed by about 60 ultras near the forests surrounding the Gobarletwa hill, Palamu police superintendent Anil Palta said. Four ultras were killed on the spot while the rest escaped, he said adding one of those killed was identified as Dadhichi Rai, a self-styled 'sub-zonal commander'. Palta said the newsman Nagendra Sharma too would have been killed in the encounter but a policeman identified him while trying to escape along with the ultras and overpowered him. He said Sharma was sent to jail under Prevention Of Terrorism Act. Palta claimed that Sharma was working as middleman for PWG. Rai, who was active in Muhammadganj, Hussainabad and Hyderganj Areas of the district had led the ultras in an ambush on a police patrol in early December in which three policemen were killed, he said. One carbine, two magazines and one wireless set were recovered from the spot, the SP said.
PTDC organizing mountain conservation meet
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation is helping Adventure Foundation of Pakistan in organizing National Children Mountain conservation meet in Kaghan valley from July 1 to 10. This event is being organized in the context of the International Year of Mountains-2002 Celebrations. The main objective of holding the event is to create awareness specially among young people about the unique mountain eco-system through various educational and action-oriented out door activities. More than one hundred children from all over Pakistan will participate in the programme which includes camping, trekking and cleaning of beautiful places like Shogran, Kaghan, Naran and lake Saiful Muluk.
Nisar hopes political parties will put aside differences to show national unity
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Information Minister Nisar Memon Monday hoped that all political parties being invited for May 31 consultative meeting with President Musharraf, will respond positively and demonstrate national unity in view of Indian escalation. "We hope that all parties will put aside political differences and attend President's meeting and we hope that when we sit down all apprehensions will be removed," he told journalists after meeting JUI (F) leader Fazal ur Rehman. Replying to a question, Nisar stressed that this is not the time for focusing on differences but demonstrating unity and solidarity in the face of Indian posture. He agreed with Maulana Fazal ur Rehman's response to a question that outside the meetings with the President, the political parties have shown solidarity with the country against any Indian aggression. Nisar said, during the consultative meeting on May 31, President Musharraf will brief the politicians about the ground situation and missile tests and listen to their views. "President has always kept national interests above all considerations and is open to consultations on the national situation." The Information Minister is scheduled to meet other political leaders including President ARD Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan and PPP Senior Vice Chairman Makhdoom Amin Fahim. Earlier Monday afternoon the Minister also called on Amir Jamaat-e-Islami Qazi Hussain Ahmed to formally invite him to the meeting. He began a series of meetings with political leaders on Sunday and extended an invitation to PML (N) central leader Raja Zafar ul Haq for May 31 meeting.
Efforts afoot to eliminate child labour from surgical industry
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): After purging the soccer ball industry of child labour, the government is making strenuous efforts to eliminate the menace from surgical industry in the country. A number of measures are under way to achieve this goal with main focus on rehabilitation of children withdrawn from child labour, imparting free education to working children and making collaborated efforts to successfully carry out the ILO-IPEC projects. Sources at Labour Ministry told APP Monday, considering the 'Education for All' as alternative to child labour, the government is also intensely focussing on educate and impart skills to child labourers. With 18 schools already set up all across the country under Workers Welfare Fund, the sources said, under this programme the government would set up more schools to impart free education to child labourers and children of working community. "The government intends to establish such schools in each district by the end of 2003 and gradually extend free education facilities to every nook and corner of the country," they added. These sources said the government has also launched the Workplace Monitoring and Workers and Employers Consultation Mechanism in the Surgical Industry. The sources said another area of focus is to promote bilateral relationship and ensure healthy industrial relations between employers and employees based on trust paradigm. "Cooperative approach between workers and employers is also being promoted as an essential component to eliminate child labour and for economic growth and viability," they added. Measures to promote desirability, skill development and provide better working conditions at workplace are also being initiated to upgrade workers potential and efficiency and make the industry compatible. Moreover, child awareness centre in Punjab is also being converted into a center of excellence.
The sources said ILO-IPEC project to combat hazardous and exploitative child labour in surgical instruments manufacturing through prevention, withdrawal and rehabilitation has also been launched with funding source form Italian Social Partners, the government of Italy and Surgical Instrument Manufacturers Association of Pakistan. "An amount of US$ 250,000 has been provided by the Italian Social Partners whereas the government of Italy provided an amount of $ 80,000 and SIMAP provided an amount of $ 64,500 for the project," sources added. The project, they said, is being implemented by the NGOs, Trade Unions, Bunyad Literacy Community Council, Sudhaar/SAHE, Apprentices Training Center (ATC), All Pakistan Federation of Labour and All Pakistan Federation of Trade Unions.
The main components of the project consist of Direct Action focusing on establishment of Village Education and Action Clusters to provide non-formal education and institutional development aiming at strengthening partner organizations and awareness raising. Giving details, the sources said, the target groups covered by the project have been indicated as 500 working children, 100 young and adult workers, 60 sub-contractors, 20 manufacturers and adult members, particularly women belonging to families of working children, having been withdrawn from child labour. About achievements made through Direct Action, the sources said, these include 12 non-formal education centers, enrolment of 60 children, mainstreaming 62 children, 18 teachers training programmes, establish linkage with health services and community based organizations, establishment of 20 allied community groups and formation of 12 community education committees.
Meanwhile, the baseline survey commissioned by SIMAP and ILO has revealed that 3203 children under the age of 14 were computed in the surgical industry and since the total number of workers estimated by SIMAP in surgical industry is 56,000, the proportion of child labour comes out to be 5.7 per cent. One of the findings of this survey is that the average of children in surgical industry is just over 12 years and their average age at the time of starting work was over 10 years. "The performance of the project is also being evaluated by internal evaluation mechanism and external evaluation and monitoring system," the sources said.
BBC World to start one hour discussion programme about Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): BBC World plans to start a one hour discussion programme with a panel of four participants representing shades of opinion in Pakistan. Alistair Brown, Director Operations, BBC who is presently on a visit to Pakistan while giving details told PTV the discussion programme will also have an anchorperson and audience. He hoped to develop some programme ideas this week with a view to starting a series of perhaps 13 programmes in August. BBC World have just announced HardTalk Pakistan series which started from Friday with the interview of President General Pervez Musharraf by Riz Khan.
Alistair sees this as a positive start to a series of ten programmes which will be aired over the ten weeks. He said, "I have meetings with people who gave some interesting suggestions to make about IT and other programme areas." "We can develop these ideas and then we can see what we are going to do later in the year," he added. It may be mentioned here that a four member team from BBC World is in Pakistan to launch programmes focusing on Pakistan. The team has held talks with the Federal Minister for Information and other officials of the Ministry.
Britain Blocks The Sale Of 60 Hawk Jets To India
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): The British government has put a block on the sale to India of 60 Hawk jets worth Pounds 1 billion as part of an arms embargo aimed at averting war between India and Pakistan, reports Kashmir Media Service. British paper, the Independent says, the decision underlines the extreme anxiety felt in London and another capitals at the most serious threat of a nuclear exchange since the Cuban missile crisis in the 1960s.
Health Minister advises pharmaceutical industry to get ready for emergency
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): The Federal Minister for Health Dr. Abdul Malik Kasi has advised the pharmaceutical industry to get ready to meet any drug management and supply in case of an emergency. In a statement issued here today, the Minister said that he has issued special instructions to Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers' Association and the Executive Director, Pharma Bureau, the pharmaceutical industry to ensure availability of drugs and build up inventory of finished drugs and at least six months requirements of pharmaceutical raw materials for any emergency. The Provincial Health Secretaries and Heads of the Federal Government Institutions have been also been instructed to activate the Emergency Medical Services Committees to meet up the emerging war like situation at the eastern borders. The federal health minister said that they have been asked for placement of health personnel on alert and to assess the resources for the life saving drags, medicines and equipments.
Health Ministry utilises maximum budget: Kasi
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): The Federal Minister Dr. Abdul Malik Kasi Monday said that the health sector has utilised its budget to maximum level to provide best possible health facilities to the people. Talking to newsmen today after inaugurating 5-day workshop in Murree on "Environmental Health" the minister said the budget for the current year is Rs. 4.7 billion which was a record in the history of the country. He said that initially the allocation for the health sector was Rs. 2.7 billion and later President General Pervez Musharraf provided Rs. 2.0 billion more so that health facilities could be provided to maximum people.
POF to mint 200 million coin blanks of Rs 5 each
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): Pakistan Ordnance Factory (POF) and Pakistan Mint on Monday signed an agreement to mint 200 million coin blanks of Rs 5 denomination each. The contract on behalf of the POF was signed by POF Managing Director Azhar Masood while Riaz Hasan Khan, Master of Pakistan Mint represented the Government of Pakistan.
Chairman POF Board Lt Gen Abdul Qayyum who also was present on the occasion describing the salient features of the contract said that POF will produce five rupee coin blanks worth Rs. 590 million which would be delivered to Pakistan Mint before March 31, 2004. He said the signing of the such more contracts will also take place after termination of this contract which is for 200 million coin blanks.
Chairman POF Board said that after meeting the requirement of arms and ammunition of our own armed forces, were engaged to utilize the surplus capacity of our plant and machinery for commercial products needed by the civil market. He said that without putting any extra plant and machinery, POF was meeting the requirement of Pakistan Mint with the available facilities. Lt Gen Abdul Qayyum said that if Pakistan Mint desires to get manufactured coin blanks of other denominations, "we would be happy to accept this task." He said that by this way POF is not only utilizing the surplus capacity of its huge infrastructure, but are also saving a lot of precious foreign exchange. Mr. Riaz Hassan Khan, the Master of Pakistan Mint, expressed his satisfaction over the quality of two rupees coin and he termed it at par with imported coin blanks. POF had mint these coin blanks under a contract with Pakistan mint.
He said that if the Government of Pakistan decides to introduce Rupees ten coins, we will definitely prefer to get it produced from POF. The POF has already manufactured Rs two coin blanks worth Rs. 270 million during last two years which were being circulated in the market. Previously the Pakistan Mint used to import Rs two coin blanks from Austria and Brazil for which they had to spend a huge foreign exchange.
Pakistan-Russia discuss current Pak-India stand off
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): An Inter-Ministerial Russian delegation led by Anatoly Safonov, Deputy Foreign Minister arrived in Islamabad on a three day visit. After his arrival Mr. Safonov held detailed discussions with Additional Secretary (America & Europe) Aneesuddin Ahmed at the Foreign Office. He later called on Foreign Secretary Inamul Haq. The talks covered a range of subjects including avenues for enhancing bilateral relations in diverse fields, the current Pakistan-India stand off, the Afghanistan situation and cooperation in confronting international terrorism. The two sides agreed to work towards the establishment of a permanent mechanism to deal with security issues. The Pakistan side conveyed its appreciation for President Putin's interest in facilitating a dialogue between Pakistan and India.
SC fixes 10% quota for FATA students in medical colleges for local students
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): A five member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Sheik Riaz Ahmed on Monday fixed 10 per cent quota out of the total 111 reserved seats for FATA students who will complete their Matric and F.Sc. from local colleges. Remaining 90 per cent quota will be availed by the residents of FATA and Frontier Regions who will complete their Metric and F.Sc. examinations from other colleges of the country other than the local colleges. This decision was given by the Bench headed by Justice Sheikh Riaz Ahmed, Chief Justice of Pakistan with other members including Justice Nazim Hussain Siddiqui, Justice Qazi Muhammad Farooq, Justice Rana Bhagwandas and Mian Muhammad Ajmal. They made this decision while reviewing the earlier decision regarding quota system for the students of FATA and Frontier Regions. Supreme Court made it very clear that all reserve seats would be filled through open merit to be done on agency to agency basis. It may be mentioned here that the petition was filed by various students belonging to different agencies of FATA and Frontier Regions including Muhibullah and Sajjad Khan from North Wazirustan, Muhammad Hakeem and Saadullah Khan from Orakzai agency, Aminullah Khan from Khyber Agency and Umar Zaad from Bajore Agency. Abdul Kareem Kundi, senior advocate represented the petitioners and pleaded the case with a number of documentary evidence. He said a number of agencies of FATA have no intermediate level college even for boys. He said there is only Kurram Agency out of 7 agencies of FATA and 6 Frontier Regions which have college for female. FATA and Frontier Regions have 111 reserved seats in all Medical Colleges of the country including 85 in the medical colleges of NWFP. The same bench also dismissed a petition filed by Kamran Haider Shaheen against Punjab Government regarding the quota for the children of Defence personal and Doctors. Chief Justice of Pakistan clarified that there would be no quota for the children of Defence Personals and Doctors in Medical Colleges according to the previous decision of the court. The Chief Justice said although all students who were granted admission on the basis of quota, they would be allowed to complete their degree and barred that there would be no new admission on same ground.
Nation to fully support President in event of war: JI leader
KARACHI, May 27 (APP)- Naib Amir, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Prof. Ghafoor Ahmed said here Monday that the whole nation fully supports Pakistan Army and they would fight against India if a war was imposed. Talking to APP, Prof. Ghafoor Ahmed said the President has rightly pointed out that India has aggressive designs not only for Pakistan, but other countries of the region as well. In his reaction to President General Pervez Musharraf's address to the nation, Prof. Ghafoor Ahmed said more than 700,000 Indian army is perpetrating atrocities against Kashmiris in Held- Kashmir. He said Kashmiris are fighting for their right of self- determination and Pakistan is not involved in it. Besides Kashmiris, chauvinistic Indian Army is also conducting aggression on Muslims, Christians and other minorities in various parts of India, which should be stopped, he said adding the world community should notice the stubbornness of India. The central leader of JI said all the political parties, that did not attend the government's meeting had already made it clear that they are with the Armed Forces and would fully support the Forces in case of any aggression. He said Pakistani nation is united and they would give every sacrifice to protect the motherland.
Over 10 million footballs exported so far from Sialkot on eve of Football World Cup
SIALKOT, May 27 (APP): Over ten million footballs have been exported so far on the eve of Football World Cup by exporters engaged with soccer ball industry from Sialkot, said Chairman Sialkot Dry Port Muhammad Siddique Lone. In an exclusive interview with APP here Monday, he said three categories of footballs like top match, practice and promotion footballs are exported by different firms of Sialkot. After the incident of September 11 incident, business community especially the exporters were in great trouble because of slump in the exports but due to timely decision of President General Pervez Musharraf to join international coalition against terrorism has rescued the export sector from serious setback, he said.
Lone further said that undoubtedly the federal government has adopted rational policies for creating business-friendly environment in the country aimed at stabilizing the economy of the country. It is a fact that timely decision of the government to join international coalition has not only protected the country from isolation but also has increased the prestige of the country globally, he added. Chairman Sialkot Dry Port said Federal Government is mobilizing Rs. 90 million on launching a publicity and advertising campaign the world over on the eve of World Cup Football matches. In fact the government has taken the step for the promotion of 'Sialkot Made Soccer ball' during World Cup Football matches as well as to promote Soccer ball Industry of Sialkot, he added. Sialkot is producing more than 70 percent hand-stitched worldwide production of quality footballs and fulfilling the international demands. The publicity and advertising drive would certainly attract the attention of international buyers, print and electronic media during the Football world cup matches, he added. Lone said the impact of this campaign would also create positive results especially after the elimination of Child Labour from Soccer ball industry of Sialkot under Atlanta Agreement. Despite of tension created on Working Boundary and Line of Control by India the exporting activities and other business actions are at peak and life is totally normal and morale of the people in Sialkot and its adjoining areas is very high, he added. Lone said at dry port adequate arrangements have been made for speedy disposal of consignments especially of footballs adding that all necessary services are being provided to the exporters at Dry port in this regard. Chairman Sialkot Dry Port said a multi-dimensional plan is under active consideration of Sialkot Dry Prot Trust for introducing a new transport service from Sialkot for the speedy handling of exportable cargo to European countries.
Access to higher education being increased with enhanced private sector role
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): The present government is giving top priority to an increased access to higher education, with the role of private sector being enhanced through a package of incentives and liberal grant of charters to establish universities. According to official sources, a Higher Education Commission has already been set up to streamline, expand and improve quality of higher education. Linkages between universities and industry are being forged through strengthening of programs of studies in science and technology with special concentration on engineering sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutics and information and communication technology, the sources said.
In this respect, an Endowment Fund of Rs. one billion was being created to promote research, the sources said, adding, output of PhDs from 60 per annum at present is to be increased to 400-500. Six new universities-three general, one Information Technology and one in Medical Science -- have been established in Public Sector and ten universities/colleges have been charted as degree awarding institutions in private sector. Two campuses of U.E.T. Peshawar are being established in Mardan and Bannu. The sources further informed that improvement of quality at all levels of education is the central concern of the Education Sector Reforms. A National Education Assessment System (NEAS) has been launched to establish minimum standards of performance as a diagnostic mechanism for improvement of policy planning and decision making, curricula and textbooks, teacher training and school management. According to the sources, a network of decentralized Resource Centres is being put into place to ensure continuous capacity building and professional development of teachers and educational field managers as well as for training of members of PTAs/SMCs to enable parents and community leaders to effectively participate in school improvement endeavors. Funds amounting to Rs. 235.00 million have already been distributed to each of 16 districts of Sindh, 24 districts of NWFP, 34 districts of Punjab and 24 districts of Balochistan.
Ministry of Industries & Production launches website shortly
ISLAMABAD, May 27 (APP): The Ministry of Industries & Production's new Website hosted on COMSATS Server, with the web address <www.moip.gov.pk> is being launched shortly. The website has been developed in a very short period of two months and will grow as it progresses. The design of the website is three dimensional and is quite user-friendly. Suggestions for its further improvement will be welcomed by the Ministry of Industries & Production as there is no doubt it will serve the needs of a wide range of users as it contains information about major industrial sectors. Brief details of contents in each dimension of the menu are given below:-
The first dimension contains Home, Help Line, Monthly News, Contact Us and Web Links. The second dimension of menu contains About MOI&P, Support Organizations, Corporations and Units, Industrial Sectors, Industrial Support Facilities, Vendor Industries, Privatization Scenario, R&D Institutes, Cost Of Doing Business and Linkages With Provincial Departments. While the third dimension includes FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions), Current Projects, Industrial Policy, Deletion Policy, Investment Opportunities, Sectoral Policies, Economic Policies, Trade Policy, Industrial Credit, Export Policy, Import Policy, Taxes & Duties, Industrial Standards and Climatic Data.
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