In Brief
INTERNAL
Sindh imposes lockdown; Active Covid-19 cases in country cross 60,000 mark
On 3o July, Sindh government announced that a lockdown will be imposed in the province from 31 July to 8 August to curb the COVID-19 spread which was spiralling out of control. However, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry said that the Sindh government would not be allowed to impose a complete lockdown as the federal government’s policy on controlling the spread of Covid-19 was crystal clear. Meanwhile, the number of active Covid-19 cases crossed the 60,000 mark with 4,537 more people tested positive for the deadly virus while 86 patients died during the last 24 hours in the country. (“Sindh imposes lockdown to curb COVID-19 spike,” Dawn, 31 July 2021) (“Sindh won’t be allowed to enforce complete lockdown: Fawad,” Dawn, 31 July 2021) (“Active Covid-19 cases in country cross 60,000 mark,” Dawn, 31 July 2021)

With consistent efforts, Pakistan can root out polio, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn states that with the efforts of those carrying out the national polio programme, there are signs that Pakistan might be able to eradicate the crippling disease. The relatively low number of cases and negative environmental samples indicate that the poliovirus is indeed on the wane. However, this progress is fragile and could be reversed if vaccination efforts are halted or compromised. Thus, it says that with a national immunization drive beginning in August the government must ensure that reluctant parents are persuaded to comply for their children’s sake, adding that with consistent efforts, Pakistan can root out polio. (“Reduction in polio cases,” Dawn, 31 July 2021)

IHC tells FIA to not misuse cybercrime laws 
On 30 July, the Islamabad High Court directed the Federal Investigation Agency to submit a report on its SOPs regarding cybercrime laws and asked the agency to hold consultations with a representative journalists’ body. Justice Minallah reportedly asked the FIA to “dispel the impression that journalists are targeted” for criticising the government. The additional attorney general informed that of the 22,877 complaints received under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 30 cases were filed against journalists. Justice Minallah observed, “One should not be afraid of criticism since it is essential to ensure accountability.” (Malik Asad, “FIA told to stop misuse of cybercrimes law,” Dawn, 31 July 2021)

PMD issues flood alert amid heavy rainfall 
On 31 July, The News International reported that the Pakistan Meteorological Department had predicted heavy rainfall for upper and central Pakistan and therefore, issued alerts for flash floods, landslides and urban flooding. The PMD predicts that the monsoon current will begin on 31 July (today) and will stay till 3 August. (“Met office issues flood alert across country,” The News International, 31 July 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE 
Women MNAs call for hanging of rapists; opinion attributes crimes against women to “violent system”
On 30 July, women MNAs from the treasury and opposition unanimously called for the hanging of rapists in light of the number of cases of abuse against women and children. A PTI MNA said, “If Pakistan has to be run, then rapists and killers must be hanged in public. We will not let the country be run in the way it is being run.” Meanwhile, the Minister for Human Rights opined that laws alone will not curb such incidents if society did not change its mindset. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Women MNAs demand public hanging of rapists,” Dawn, 31 July 2021) An opinion in Dawn says that Pakistan does not just have violent men, but also has a violent system. The author traces the patriarchal structure of the society as “No dominant narrative includes women’s roles in creating, resisting and running the nation.” The author opines that crimes against women persist because complex systems which “fortify men in paradigms of power” are in place. Therefore, the opinion concludes that the challenge before Pakistanis is to “redesign the system to change hearts and minds, to raise a better citizenry.” (Shazminay Durrani,” No woman’s land,” Dawn, 31 July 2021)

ENERGY
Editorial calls on government to solve power outage issues in Makran and other districts
An editorial in Dawn, referring to the recent power outage in Makran says that no measures have been initiated to address the persistent problem over the last three years. The editorial opines that the root cause lies in the failure of successive governments to connect Makran and other districts facing the same problem, to the national grid. Outlining the dependence on Iran for power in this part of Pakistan, the editorial says it is not a solution to the crisis as Iran itself is undergoing a similar crisis. Therefore, it says connecting the districts to the national grid or building a power generation plant are the long-term solution and hopes that “the government does not wait for yet another crisis.” (“Outages in Makran,” Dawn, 31 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Saudi Arabia extends invite to PM Imran for the Middle East climate summit
On 31 July, Saudi Arabia invited PM Imran Khan to the ‘Middle East Green Initiative Summit’ which is scheduled for October. The invite was delivered by Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malkiy. The PM Office, in a statement, said that PM Khan accepted the invitation for participating in the summit, saying the initiatives are aligned closely with the prime minister’s climate change initiatives, ‘Clean and Green Pakistan’ and ‘10 Billion Tree Tsunami’ adding, “Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are also collaborating closely to develop synergies in their climate-change-related strategies.” (“Saudi Arabia invites PM Imran to Middle East climate summit” Dawn, 31 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Media, people should identify and defeat spoilers of peace, says COAS
On 30 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa while speaking to a 15-member Afghan media delegation reiterated, “Peace in Afghanistan is Pakistan’s earnest desire because peace of the two countries is interlinked. The spoilers will not be allowed to derail peace process.” He added, “It is the responsibility of media and people to identify and defeat the spoilers of peace.” (“Media, people should identify and defeat spoilers of peace: General Qamar Javed Bajwa,” The News International, 31 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Bilawal says PPP will expose PTI’s alleged rigging in recent polls
On 31 July, The Express Tribune reported that Bilawal Bhutto had come down on the PTI for allegedly rigging the “AJK” elections. He said, “There has never been more rigging in the past than the AJK elections. Their minister was caught red-handed while distributing money,” and warned, “A new government is being formed in the AJK on the basis of money but the PPP would not allow it run.” He said the PPP would engage with other opposition parties to expose and give a tough time to the PTI in “AJK.” (Khalid Mehmood, “Bilawal says PPP to give tough time to AJK govt,” The Express Tribune, 31 July 2021)

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that Pakistan has never denied its deep-rooted ties with the Afghan Taliban, however, this does not amount to providing support and exercising command and control over the Afghan Taliban. It adds that Pakistan has no aspirations to be a hegemonic power in Afghanistan but rather it only desires to live peacefully next to a non-antagonistic Afghanistan.

An editorial in Dawn states that foreign states must continue to hammer home the message that militancy based out of Afghanistan will not be accepted, while it should also be communicated that religious freedom and women’s rights must be assured.  

Pervez Hoodbhoy in an opinion in Dawn states that Russia and America are primarily responsible for Afghanistan’s tragedy, arguing when elephants fight the grass gets trampled, however, Pakistan cannot be exonerated either.

Fahd Husain in an opinion in Dawn states that the Sialkot verdict is not just about a provincial by-election from the city; it is a validation of the PTI’s growing political fortunes two years before the general elections; it is a corroboration of the durability of the 2018 consensus; and it is a reaffirmation of the confusion that plagues the PML-N at a steep cost to itself.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar 

An opinion in Daily Times says that Pakistan is in a position to play a key role in the global economy within a decade because of the country’s improvement in the digital arena. The author says this avenue has been strengthened by various policy initiatives, including Digital Pakistan. Similarly, in March, the Federal Minister for IT said, “Pakistan is on the verge of digital revolution as we see progress happening in the country on daily basis...” Initiating the Digital Pakistan 2021 Policy, he said the policy aims at “citizen empowerment and economic prosperity” of the country. The Minister was right in saying so as Pakistan’s digital footprint has been on the rise and is likely to expand further.

However, the concept of “Digital Pakistan” policy was introduced in 2018, focusing on connectivity, digital infrastructure, e-government services, digital skills and training, and entrepreneurship. The 2021 policy is a revamp of the same. 

Atta-Ur-Rehman, in an opinion, listed out several initiatives to bring the digital to the mainstream, including reducing the price of bandwidth, formulating a National IT policy in 2000, expanding fiber access across cities and setting up IT universities. Later, under PM Imran Khan’s governance beginning 2018, three PM task forces IT and Telecom, Science and Technology and Knowledge Economy were formed to enhance Pakistan’s digital capacity. 

However, as promising as the above initiatives look, Pakistan is yet to address certain gaps. This includes the need to ensure cybersecurity, better undertaking of public sector automation, need for a long-term commitment instead of framing policies for short-term outcomes, and balancing between digital priorities and traditional businesses. 

Apart from the technical aspects, access to the digital space is also unequal. For example, access to mobile wallets is restricted wherein there is a “38 percent gender gap in mobile phone ownership (the highest in South Asia) and a 49 percent gender gap in internet usage.” Further, Pakistan also has a poor performance record on the Economist Intelligence Unit’s  Inclusive Internet Index and ranks at the bottom in Asian countries. 

The pandemic exposed these differences; an opinion says, “Digital access remains heavily reliant on income levels, geographic locations and gender…” The author, therefore, suggests the following measures to address these problems, make digital access a fundamental right, promote digital literacy, digitisation of the government and public sector, engage with the private sector to develop the country’s digital ecosystem. Similarly, recent measures like introduction of taxes on mobile calls are likely to deter people’s move towards digitisation. Furthermore, new rules under the PECA and PEMRA, and bans on apps like TikTok are also not working in favour of digitisation. Therefore, unless the required measures are not taken, the grand policies showcased at various events will remain static without translating into reality; this is because promoting “Digital Pakistan” is not a solution “if digital Pakistan remains beyond the reach of most Pakistanis.”

In Brief
INTERNAL
Polio vaccination drive to begin in 68 districts from August
On 29 July, Dawn reported that the Sub-National Immunisation Days (SNIDs) campaign will begin on 2 August during which more than 23.6 million children in 68 districts of all four provinces and the federal capital will be administered anti-polio drops. While inaugurating the campaign, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health said, “Pakistan has made significant progress over the past months and with the declining polio cases it is important to continue with full force. We need to ensure all eligible children are vaccinated during each campaign to build up their immunity. I urge all parents to welcome polio teams and accept polio drops.” (“Polio vaccination drive to begin in 68 districts on Aug 2,” Dawn, 30 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Governor rejects ‘controversial’ privileges bill
On 30 July, Dawn reported that the Punjab governor rejected the Provincial Assembly (Privileges) (Amendment) Bill 2021 and returned it to the Punjab Assembly speaker for being in contravention of Article 66 (3) and Article 10-A of the Constitution. The bill provides for punishment to a bureaucrat for breach of a privilege of the house, any of its committee or a member, has deepened as the Punjab and federal governments have ‘bowed down to the pressure’ exerted by the civil bureaucracy. (Mansoor Malik, “Punjab governor rejects ‘controversial’ privileges bill,” Dawn, 30 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Pakistan’s regional exports rise nine per cent in FY21
On 30 July, Dawn reported that the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan showed that exports to nine regional countries posted growth of 9.14 per cent while imports grew by nearly 36 per cent in FY21 from a year ago. The Bank said the country’s exports to Afghanistan, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives account for a small amount of USD 3.925 billion which is just 14.21 per cent of Pakistan’s total global exports of USD 25.304 billion in FY21. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Pakistan’s regional exports rise 9pc in FY21,” Dawn, 30 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
NSA Moeed Yusuf meets American counterpart Jake Sullivan
On 29 July, NSA Moeed Yusuf and his American counterpart Jake Sullivan in Washington DC. During, the meeting, they discussed the “urgent need for reduction in violence and a negotiated political settlement in Afghanistan.” In a Tweet, Yusuf said, “Had a positive follow-up meeting with NSA Jake Sullivan today in Washington,” adding, “Took stock of progress made since our Geneva meeting and discussed bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest.” This was the second meeting between the two officials who first met in Geneva in March. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in an interview said, “Pakistan has a vital role to play in using its influence with the Taliban to do whatever it can to make sure that the Taliban does not seek to take the country by force.” (Anwar Iqbal, “US, Pakistan NSAs meet in Washington to discuss Afghan security situation,” Dawn, 30 July 2021) (Anwar Iqbal, “US wants Pakistan to play its vital role, says Blinken,” Dawn, 30 July 2021)

Pakistan Army, PLA to continue to contribute safeguarding collective interests, says COAS
On 29 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa said that both the Pakistani and Chinese armies will continue to contribute towards safeguarding collective interests, terming the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and Pakistan Army brothers in arms. He said, "In the evolving security milieu, Pakistan-China partnership is becoming increasingly important for regional peace and stability," adding, "Our past and present testify that we never gave in to challenges." Additionally, Ambassador of China to Pakistan Nong Rang, Defence Attache Major General Chen Wenrong said, "No matter how the world situation changes, we will always stand together in safeguarding our national sovereignty, territorial integrity and maintaining regional peace and stability." The statements were made at the 94th anniversary of the founding of PLA commemorated at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi. (“China vows to ‘always stand together’ with Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 30 July 2021)

FM Qureshi meets with Bahrain’s PM
On 29 July, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman Bin Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa. During the meeting, the PM acknowledged Pakistan’s close cooperation with Bahrain in the development of its defence and security capabilities and appreciated the contribution made by the Pakistani diaspora towards Bahrain’s progress and economic development. Meanwhile, Qureshi underlined the importance of strong political and security linkages to strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas of economy and trade. (“Bahrain acknowledges Pak role in defence development,” The Express Tribune, 30 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
No plan to downgrade ties with Kabul, says Foreign Office
On 29 July, Foreign Office Spokesperson said that Pakistan had no plans to downgrade diplomatic ties with Afghanistan, insisting negative comments by some elements in the neighbouring country cannot be allowed to impact the “important relationship.” The spokesperson said, “Pakistan believes in maintaining close, cooperative and brotherly relations with Afghanistan. There is no plan to downgrade our diplomatic relations with the neighbouring country,” adding, “Negative statements by some elements, who are not representative of the people of Afghanistan, cannot be allowed to adversely impact this important relationship particularly at this critical juncture of the ongoing Afghan peace process.” (“No plan to downgrade ties with Kabul: FO,” The Express Tribune, 30 July 2021)

Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri and Sudheendra Kulkarni in an opinion in Dawn states that despite many wars and many near-war situations, neither Pakistan or India has been able to achieve its objectives through war or violence.

An editorial in Dawn argues that judicial appointments should not become controversial, adding that the Judicial Commission of Pakistan must set a clearly defined path to elevation.

An editorial in Dawn on the PTI’s victory in the Sialkot constituency PP-38 over PML-N states that this is a significant development in all respects, adding that the PTI’s recent electoral victories are a reminder that the fundamentals of the political chessboard that was set in the 2018 elections remains in place to a fairly large extent.

An editorial in The News International states that for the the National Adaptation Plan for building resilience to climate change to succeed what is required is a responsive government and citizenry that prioritise climate change and environment over indifference and greed.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 28 July, two people were killed in the E-11 area of Islamabad as several areas experienced urban flooding after a cloudburst caused heavy rainfall. Deputy Commissioner Islamabad attributed the flash flood to a cloudburst and urged the public to “cooperate and restrict unnecessary movements.” Videos from Islamabad’s sectors E-11 and D-12 showed cars floating in gushing waters after the heavy downpour lashed the federal capital and Rawalpindi for hours, the highest rains the twin cities received during the current monsoon season. According to a report in Dawn, “weak regulatory check on housing societies by the civic agency and district administration was the cause of the tragic incident in E-11 where two people died due to urban flooding while three cars and several motorcycles were washed away.”

Meanwhile, the Army has been deployed to help assist the situation. In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that army troops are busy assisting civil administration in rescue and relief efforts, adding, “contingency plans are in place to meet any flood situation.” Taking notice of the situation, Prime Minister Imran Khan cautioned citizens to take “special care” due to the heavy monsoon rains, saying, “I have also directed all the relevant response agencies including [the] NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) to be on high alert with ready and rapid emergency response actions.”

Previously, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) announced that strong monsoon currents were continuously penetrating in upper parts of the country and were likely to continue during the week. The PMD has forecast rains in Kohistan, Shangla, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mardan, Charsadda, Nowshera, Dir, Chitral, Peshawar, Kohat, Tank and Karak districts from Monday to Friday. Earlier this month, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said there was a likelihood of urban flooding due to heavy rains in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar and Faisalabad. 

The problem of urban flooding has become a regular phenomenon in Pakistan. According to an analysis in Dawn, “urban floods stem from a combination of various meteorological and hydrological extremes, such as extreme precipitation and flows in short spans of time. These factors, along with unplanned growth and development in floodplains, poor urban development practices and failure of flood protection infrastructure, pose a serious challenge to human lives and public development, particularly in developing nations.” Additionally, “population density and proximity to urban centres significantly alter the dynamics and complexity when it comes to urban flooding.” 

Additional the analysis attributes urban flooding to “development outside the protection of existing flood defenses and on areas that have been historically inundated; a developer-centric building policy where concrete has priority over green spaces that absorb water like a sponge; an increase in paving and other impermeable surfaces; overcrowding, increased densities and congestion; limited, ageing or poorly maintained drainage, sanitation and solid waste infrastructures; over-extraction of groundwater leading to subsidence; a lack of flood risk management activities and poor public awareness of the risks contributing to, and caused by, urban flooding.”

Pakistan has witnessed a major flood event in the last decade. Over the recent years, urban flooding has gained a strong foothold in Pakistan and has become synonymous with the monsoon season. 
According to the “Climate Risk Country Profile” for Pakistan released in 2021, Pakistan was placed in the top vulnerable countries in terms of increase in average temperatures and resultant economic and social losses. The report projects an increase in the number of people affected by flooding, with a likely increase of around five million people exposed to extreme river floods by 2035–2044, and a potential increase of around one million annually exposed to coastal flooding by 2070–2100.

Urban flooding in Pakistan cannot be treated as a single entity. The combination of climate change, increasing urbanisation, demands for housing and industrial land, economic development must be taken in while trying to mitigate the problem of urban flooding in Pakistan through long term structural reforms and revised urban development strategies.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Senate panel clears bill prohibiting corporal punishment
On 28 July, the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights cleared “The Islamabad Capital Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Bill 2021.” The bill prohibits any person from subjecting children to corporal punishment in all educational institutions, child care and foster care institutions, rehabilitation centres, and the juvenile justice system as well. However, two guests invited by the Committee were against the bill. A PML-N Senator said, “Corporal punishment should not be completely abolished” and a JUI-P Senator said, “JUI-P believes in reforms rather than punishments. We feel that prohibiting corporal punishment would worsen the moral deterioration in the society and there will be room for abuse.” (Jamal Shahid, “Senate body clears corporal punishment bill,” Dawn, 29 July 2021)

IMB labels Punjab as “poor performer” in polio vaccination drive
On 29 July, Dawn reported on the Independent Monitoring Board’s assessment that the number of “missed children” in the 2021 anti-polio vaccination drive was higher than that of 2018 and 2019. The IMB further said that Punjab was a “poor performer” with the number of missed children increasing, especially in Lahore and Rawalpindi. The IMB says the government cites unavailability of children as the reason behind this and also outlines that refusal to be vaccinated are high in Rawalpindi where there is a large Pashtun population. (Asif Chaudhry, “Punjab ‘poor performer’ in polio vaccination,” Dawn, 29 July 2021) Meanwhile, Dawn reported that the anti-polio vaccination drive had improved the situation in Balochistan as only case of polio had been reported so far in the province compared to the 26 of 84 cases in 2020. (Balochistan govt reviews polio reduction campaigns,” Dawn, 29 July 2021) An editorial in The News International says that there are several challenges. It outlines that people need to be convinced and address the anti-vaccine propaganda. Similarly, it says the government has to address the security situation and also ensure safety of health workers. (“Long road ahead,” The News International, 29 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Punjab: CTD arrests two suspects in Johar and Dasu blasts
On 29 July, Dawn reported that the Counter Terrorism Department Punjab had claimed to have arrested two suspects in connection with the Dasu blast and the Johar Town blast. The two were arrested from Lahore and are believed to have direct or indirect involvement in the blasts. (“2 suspects arrested in Dasu blast,” Dawn, 29 July 2021)

Sindh: Chinese national shot, escapes with injuries
On 28 July, a Chinese national was injured after he was shot at while he was in a moving car in the SITE area; another Chinese man was unhurt in the incident. Police said the wounded person was an engineer; however, the DIG-South said that the two were not involved in any official project. A CTD senior official said that the Balochistan Liberation Front’s spokesperson had claimed responsibility for the attack. (Imtiaz Ali, “Chinese engineer wounded in gun attack on car in Karachi, BLF claims responsibility,” Dawn, 29 July 2021)

Punjab: PTI wins by-polls in PP-38
On 28 July, the PTI won the by-polls of the PP-38, Sialkot IV. The PTI candidate won more than 60,000 votes and the PML-N candidate secured 53,371 votes. With this win, PTI has secured two seats of the 11 Punjab provincial assembly seats in Sialkot. (Abid Mehdi, “PTI edges out PML-N in keenly contested bypoll,” Dawn, 29 July 2021) 

ECONOMY
Survey says investors believe security situation has improved in country
On 29 July, Dawn reported on the Annual Security Survey 2021 conducted by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI). The survey suggests that the security environment in Pakistan has improved. As many as 61 per cent of respondents believed that the security situation had improved in Lahore, “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (59pc), the rest of Punjab (53pc) and Karachi (51pc).” The OICCI President said that the positive perception would boost the confidence of foreign investors. He said that foreign investors had appreciated the efforts of Pakistan’s LEAs in improving security. (“Investors satisfied with security situation: survey,” Dawn, 29 July 2021)

Tarin outlines focus of Kamyab Pakistan Programme
On 28 July, Finance Minister Shaukar Tarin said that the Kamyab Pakistan Programme (KPP) aims to uplift 4.5 million underprivileged households. He said under the KPP, a programme for granting loans to small businesses and farmers at zero per cent markup was available. He said, “The programme will enable under-privileged families to break the vicious cycle of poverty.” Similarly, under the Kamyab Kissan programme, agricultural loans will be extended to farmers with landholding of up to 12.5 acres. (“KPP to uplift 4.5m households: Tarin,” The Express Tribune, 29 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Qureshi visits Bahrain, meets with Deputy PM 
On 28 July, Foreign Minister Qureshi met with Bahrain’s Deputy Prime Minister wherein the two agreed that they should work closely in areas of mutual interest. Qureshi said that he conveyed to Bahrain, “Pakistan’s focus on geo-economics, connectivity and as a partner for peace and development.” Dawn reports that Pakistan and Bahrain would sign the Board of Investment (BoI) while Qureshi is in Bahrain. ("Collaboration with Bahrain to be widened in various sectors,” Dawn, 29 July 2021)

Editorial says Pakistan must work towards bridging geopolitical camps
An editorial in Dawn says that the Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister’s visit to Islamabad suggests that despite the past irritants, bilateral ties between the two countries are on track. The editorial outlines that Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are likely to closely watch the situation unfolding in Afghanistan as they were part of the US-led group against the Soviet Union. It says that the two countries and other Muslim countries, “should develop consensus on key issues affecting the Muslim world, especially Palestine and Kashmir.” It further calls on Pakistan to maintain cordial relations with all Muslim countries and work towards bridging the differences between geopolitical camps, especially Iran and Saudi Arabia. It appreciates Pakistan’s decision to not involve itself in the Yemen conflict, reasoning that “Getting sucked into sectarian and regional conflicts is definitely not in its interest.” (“Saudi FM’s visit,” Dawn, 29 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan, China jointly call on Taliban to not engage with ETIM, TTP
On 29 July, The Express Tribune reported that Beijing and Islamabad had jointly called on the Afghan Taliban to sever its ties with the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other outlawed groups in the region. The Taliban has also been asked to evict these groups from the region. The development came after the Chinese Foreign Minister met a nine-member delegation led by the Taliban leader on 28 July in China, and in the light of the Dasu incident. (Kamran Yousaf, “Taliban told to make clean break from ETIM, TTP,” The Express Tribune, 29 July 2021)

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that although Pakistan’s heavy reliance on the GCC states for its remittances has not yet waned, the increasing number of countries where Pakistani communities are getting settled and beginning to send significant amounts of money augurs well for the stability and durability of the country’s remittances.

An editorial in The News International on Pakistan’s Monetary Policy Committee deciding to maintain the policy rate at seven percent, states that the policy rate and the GDP growth are not translating into concrete benefits for the people. Similarly, an editorial in The Express Tribune states that while a low policy rate helps spur the economic growth, it also poses risks of an overheated economy.

An opinion in The News International on the electoral reforms states that there is need to improve the mechanics of elections, but more importantly, the soul and heart of elections need to be restored, adding, people have to be put in the centerstage of not just politics but the whole election process. 

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar

On 16 July, Adviser to PM on Commerce and Industry Abdul Razak Dawood, in an interview with Gulf News, said that Pakistan aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, especially to boost commercial ties with Central Asia. Dawood termed this a geoeconomic strategy. He said, “Pakistan is aiming to build strong business ties with the Central Asian states under its Silk Route Reconnect Policy to tap into over $90 billion economy and offer them access to Pakistani seaports” adding, “Improving access to Russian and European Union markets is also vitally important for Pakistan.” 

Andrew Korybko, in The Express Tribune, lists five reasons behind Pakistan’s “geoeconomic strategy.” First, Pakistan’s stake in Afghanistan; second, the aim for a trilateral platform between Pakistan, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan (PAKAFUZ); third, an entry into market potentially worth USD 90 billion; fourth, strengthening the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO); fifth, boosting itself and its partners in the region at the global level. 

Pakistan’s tilt towards Central Asia did not begin recently. In 2015, the then Commerce Minister said the CPEC project would help Pakistan tap into Central Asia’s economy and make the country a regional economic hub. Recently, on 15 July, Prime Minister Imran Khan visited Tashkent to attend the “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities.” On the same day, Pakistan and Uzbekistan agreed to finalise a Preferential Trade Agreement to increase bilateral trade. 

Other than economic interests, Pakistan also looks at the energy sources in Central Asia. In January, the construction of a portion of the Central Asia-South Asia Regional Trade and Transmission Project (CASA-1000) commenced. The CASA-1000 is a 1,270km transmission line which is proposed to transfer excess hydropower from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Pakistan through Afghanistan.

Experts believe that a strong relation between Pakistan and Central Asia would also assist Afghanistan stabilise itself to the benefit of Islamabad, and the region. “CARs have influence and can neutralize and exert pressure in Northern Afghanistan” while “Pakistan has influence in the southern belt of Afghanistan.”

Therefore, by focusing on all the above issues, Pakistan aims to secure a key role in the region, increase connectivity and boost economic ties and energy relations.

In Brief
INTERNAL
No matter what a woman wears, the person who commits rape is responsible, says PM Khan
On 28 July, PM Imran Khan clarified his stance on the rising sex crimes in Pakistan stated that his comments were deliberately taken out of context and that he solemnly holds only the rapists responsible for rape, asserting that he has never blamed victims. He said, “No matter what a woman wears or how provocative she is, the person who commits rape is responsible. The victim is never responsible. My comments were taken out of context. We were simply talking about the Pakistani society and the rising number of sex crimes, including those against children. And when I spoke about ‘pardah’, which is a part of Islam, I was addressing everyone.” (“No matter what a woman wears, the person who commits rape is responsible: Imran Khan,” The Express Tribune, 28 July 2021)

Hepatitis killing three to four times more people than Covid-19, says experts
On 27 July, health experts and medical scientists warned, “Hepatitis is three to four times more lethal viral infection in Pakistan where around 300 to 325 people are dying daily due to complications of hepatitis B and C,” adding, “on the other hand, Covid-19 deaths hardly cross the figure of 100 in a single day. So there is a need to have equal focus on the prevention, screening and treatment of hepatitis B and C in the country. It needs collective effort from the health fraternity, government and the masses. We have to move fast before it goes out of control.” They said that the hepatitis B and C viral infections are a “pandemic within a pandemic” stressing the need to focus more on the issue. (Imran Ayub, “Hepatitis killing three to four times more people than Covid-19, warn experts,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

POA blames IPC, PSB for the decline of sports in Pakistan
On 27 July, the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) alleged that the Inter-provincial Ministry (IPC) and the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) were mainly responsible for the decline of sports in the country while the POA is not responsible for sports development in the country. The POA pointed out that the IPC made a false claim that it had sent a summary to the Prime Minister for the preparation of the athletes who have qualified for the Tokyo Olympics. Additionally, the association also criticised the PSB for the unutilised sports funds worth Rs 440 million to the finance ministry and in the Olympic year instead of spending it on the preparations of the athletes for the Tokyo Games. (“IPC, PSB responsible for decline of sports in Pakistan: POA,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

Drug peddlers are a threat to national security, enemies of humanity, says COAS
On 28 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa while visited Anti-Narcotics Force headquarters said that drug peddlers and those involved in its production are a threat to national security and relentless enemies of humanity, adding, “Drug money is being used for promotion of terrorism and therefore, it is important that drug dealers are dealt with iron hands.” (“Drug peddlers are threat to national security, enemies of humanity: COAS,” The Express Tribune, 28 July 2021)

PSDP spending exceeds FY21 target, says Minister for Planning and Development
On 27 July, federal development spending in 2020-21 nominally exceeded its target of Rs 650 billion, marking the highest development fund utilisation since 2011-12. He said, spending under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) in the last financial year remained Rs 659 billion or 101.4 per cent of the annual target. He said, “In a year of Covid restrictions, this exceptionally high development spending reflects (the) resolve of PMIK to accelerate growth.” (“PSDP spending exceeds FY21 target: Asad,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

PM submits reply to defamation suit after four years
On 27 July, in a written reply submitted in response to a defamation suit filed in 2017 by Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif, PM Imran Khan told a court that one of his friends had told him that someone known to him and also the Sharif family had approached him with an offer to pay billions of rupees if he could convince him (Khan) to stop pursuing the Panama Papers case before the Supreme Court. (“Panama Papers case: PM submits reply to defamation suit after four years,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

PROVINCES 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Polio workers hold demonstration over non-payment of dues 
On 26 June, polio workers held a demonstration against non-payment of their dues and warned that they would not take part in the upcoming anti-polio drive if their dues were not cleared by the authorities concerned soon. Additionally, they complained that officials of the health department never acknowledged their efforts and they did not pay dues of the polio workers in time. (“Polio workers hold demonstration over non-payment of dues in Khar,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

Punjab: PTI and PML-N set face each other in Sialkot’s PP-38 by-poll
On 28 July, the ruling PTI and the opposition PML-N are set to clash again in a by-poll for a provincial assembly seat from Sialkot (PP-38, Sialkot-IV). On 27 July, Deputy Commissioner Tahir Farooq said that 165 polling had been established for the election. Thirty polling stations have been declared highly sensitive and six sensitives. (Abid Mehdi, “PTI, PML-N set to slug it out in Sialkot’s PP-38 by-poll,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

ECONOMY
SBP expects the current account deficit to be 2-3 per cent
On 27 July, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor while announcing the Monetary Policy for the next two months said, “Given expected resilience in remittances and an improving outlook for exports, the current account deficit is expected to converge towards a sustainable range of 2-3pc of GDP in FY22.” The current account deficit fell to only 0.6pc of GDP, the governor added, “This is the lowest current account deficit in 10 years, supported by all-time high exports and remittances.” (Shahid Iqbal, “SBP expects current account deficit to be 2-3pc,” Dawn, 28 July 2021) Additionally, the bank decided to maintain the policy rate at seven per cent. (“SBP maintains policy rate at 7pc,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

IMF revises up Pakistan’s real GDP growth rate to 3.9 per cent
On 27 July, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) revised up its projection for Pakistan’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate to 3.9 per cent. Previously, in April 2021, the IMF had projected Pakistan's real GDP to grow at 1.5 per cent in the year 2021 despite a higher projected rate of 3.0 per cent by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). (“IMF revises up Pakistan’s real GDP growth rate to 3.9%,” The Express Tribune, 28 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
FO rejects US report criticising country’s judicial system
On 27 July, Foreign Office Spokesperson rejecting the comments made against its judicial system in the latest US report said, “We take strong exception to the gratuitous and unwarranted comments made in the report on Pakistan’s judicial system,” clarifying that the country’s courts were independently performing their functions in accordance with the Constitution. Additionally, the spokesperson said, “The allegations to the contrary are firmly denied as factually incorrect and misleading.” (“Pakistan rejects US report criticising country’s judicial system,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

NSA, ISI chief in the US for talks on Afghanistan, other bilateral issues
On 26 July, National Security Adviser (NSA) Moeed Yusuf and the Director-General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, arrived in the US for talks with their American counterparts on Afghanistan and other issues of bilateral interests. The visit comes amid the US’s renewed efforts to formulate a regional response to the Afghan crisis aimed at preventing a Taliban takeover in Kabul. (“NSA, ISI chief reach US for talks on Afghanistan, other issues,” Dawn, 28 July 2021)

US embassy detachments itself from Noor Mukaddam murder
On 27 July, the US embassy in Islamabad distanced itself from the murder of Noor Mukaddam, in which the main accused is a US citizen Zahir Jaffer saying, “In a foreign country, US citizens are subject to that country’s laws. When Americans are arrested abroad, the Embassy can check on their well-being and provide a list of lawyers, but cannot provide legal advice, participate in court proceedings or effect [affect] their release.” (“US embassy distances itself from Noor Mukaddam murder,” The Express Tribune, 28 July 2021)

COAS meets with Chief of South African National Defence Forces General
On 27 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with Chief of South African National Defence Forces General Rudzani Maphwanya. During the meeting, matters of mutual interests, regional security situation and defence, training and security cooperation between the two countries were discussed. Additionally, the COAS said that Pakistan attaches great value to its relations with South Africa, adding, “Pakistan views South Africa as a key country in African continent and we appreciate South Africa’s role towards regional peace, security and development of African region.” (“South Africa appreciates Pakistan’s role for Afghan reconciliation process,” The Express Tribune, 28 July 2021)

Pakistan wants Russia to increase shareholding up to 49 per cent
On 28 July, The News International reported Pakistan has asked Russia that it has no money to fully fund its 74 per cent shareholding in the USD three billion projects of Pakistan Steam Gas Pipeline (PSGP), asking Russia to raise debt financing upto USD 1.4 billion against its shareholding for the project. This development has raised the concern of many if the huge amount of Rs 295 billion collected in the head of GIDC (gas infrastructure development cess) by the Finance Ministry till August 2020 has been utilized by the government. (“Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline: Pakistan wants Russia to increase shareholding up to 49pc,” The News International, 28 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
‘The US really messed up in Afghanistan’ says PM Khan 
On 28 July, PM Imran Khan said that the United States “really messed it up in Afghanistan” and the only good solution to the country's situation is through a political settlement that is “inclusive” and involves all factions, including the Taliban. He reiterated that there was “no military solution” to the problem. He added, “The worst situation in Afghanistan would be a civil war and a protracted civil war, and from Pakistan’s point of view, that would be the worst-case scenario.” (“'US really messed up in Afghanistan': PM Imran urges inclusive political settlement,” The Express Tribune, 28 July 2021)

An opinion in Dawn states that “Azad Kashmir” should not have been made a battleground for Pakistan’s political parties. It argues, it was perhaps the dirtiest electioneering in “AJK’s” history with leaders accusing each other of treachery

An opinion in Dawn argues that Pakistan’s truth is that women are killed and thier children are left to watch over their bodies, stating that the death of Noor Mukaddam, the deaths of so many women who have died at the hands of bloodthirsty men. The opinion says, the only deliverance from this collective tragedy is through a collective reckoning unlike anything before. Similarly, an opinion in The Express Tribune states that this incident brings into sharp focus the brutality and moral decadence of some of the filthy rich.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the threat of militancy states that the only possible way out of a scenario that threatens the hard-won peace against militancy in Pakistan and could plunge the region into chaos once again, is for all sides to engage with the Afghan Taliban.

An editorial in The News International states that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is an important component of the entire democratic machinery in the country, arguing that the delay in appointment to the ECP is not the only violation of the law.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 26 July, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan's (UNAMA) Afghanistan Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict in its Midyear Update 2021 documented 5,183 civilian casualties (1,659 killed and 3,524 injured) between 1 January and 30 June 2021. The total number of civilians killed and injured increased by 47 per cent compared with the first half of 2020. This increase reverses the trend of the past four years of decreasing civilian casualties in the first six months of the year, with civilian casualties rising again to the record levels seen in the first six months of 2014 to 2018. Further, the report stated that between 1 May and 30 June 2021, civilian casualties were recorded at 2,392, the highest on record for those two months since UNAMA began systematic documentation of civilian casualties in Afghanistan in 2009.

According to the report, women and children made up close to half of all these civilian casualties at 46 per cent of which 32 per cent were children and 14 per cent of civilian casualties were women. The report adds that during the first six months of 2021, a nearly threefold increase in civilian casualties as a result of the use of non-suicide improvised explosive devices (IEDs) by Anti-Government Elements. This was the most civilian casualties caused by non-suicide IEDs in the first six months of a year since UNAMA began documenting.

‘Afghan fighting Afghan’
The UNAMA report noted that this is the first time that it has not attributed a single civilian casualty to international military forces. It stated that the conflict has now apparently become an exclusively civilian fight. Further, it recorded those civilian casualties from ground engagements, attributed mainly to the Taliban and Afghan national security forces, also increased significantly. It adds, most of the fighting during May and June took place outside cities, in areas with comparatively low population levels. According to the report, "Anti-Government Elements (AGEs) were responsible for 64 per cent of the total civilian casualties: 39 per cent by Taliban, nearly nine per cent by Daesh and 16 per cent by undetermined AGEs," adding, "Pro-Government Forces (PGFs) were responsible for 25 per cent of civilian casualties: 23 per cent by Afghan national security forces, and two per cent by pro-Government armed groups or undetermined PGFs."

Additionally, the UNAMA said that it was deeply concerned about these attacks which deliberately target civilians, including government workers, human rights defenders, media workers, religious elders, and humanitarian workers, and sectarian-motivated attacks.

‘Afghanistan could see highest casualties in 2021 if violence continues’
UNAMA warned that without a significant de-escalation in violence, Afghanistan will likely witness the highest ever number of documented civilian casualties in a single year since it began keeping records in 2009. The UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Deborah Lyons, SAID, “The report provides a clear warning that unprecedented numbers of Afghan civilians will perish and be maimed this year if the increasing violence is not stemmed,” adding, “I implore the Taliban and Afghan leaders to take heed of the conflict’s grim and chilling trajectory and its devastating impact on civilians.”

The UNAMA report comes amid the Taliban’s recently launched offensive taking districts and border crossings as the US and other foreign troops complete their final withdrawal from the country beginning in May 2021. According to BBC, the Taliban have taken more territory in Afghanistan in the last months than at any time since they were ousted from power in 2001. Meanwhile, General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff stated that the Taliban control about half of Afghanistan's district centres, adding, "Strategic momentum appears to be sort of with the Taliban." This in turn has prompted US-allied warlords to resurrect militias. For many Afghans, fears are rising of another civil war as the situation deteriorates in the country.

In Brief
INTERNAL
No case of polio reported in last six months
On 27 July, The News International reported that for the first time, Pakistan had not reported any cases of polio in six months. The focal person for polio eradication said that the poliovirus cases were now confined to few geographical areas. Meanwhile, the Secretary Health acknowledged that there are gaps to be addressed including inoculating missed children, refuting fake news about and convincing parents. (Kasim Abbasi, “Pakistan reports no polio case in six months,” The News International, 27 July 2021)

Report says TTP maintains links with Afghan Taliban
On 27 July, Dawn reported on the  UN Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team report submitted to the UNSC which states that the TTP has nearly 6,000 fighters on the Afghan side of the border near Nangarhar. Dawn quotes from the report, “Attempted enforcement has reportedly led to clashes (some fatal) between the Taliban and TTP over operational restrictions placed on the latter,” however, “despite growing distrust, TTP and the Taliban carry on with relations mainly as before.” (Anwar Iqbal, “TTP maintains ties with Afghan Taliban, says report,” Dawn, 27 July 2021)

Suspect confesses to killing Noor, say police
On 26 July, Zahir Jaffer, who was arrested for Noor Mukadam’s murder, confessed to the crime. Dawn quoted a police officer who said that CCTV footage showed Noor trying to escape from the building and hiding in the guard’s room; later Zahir broke the room and dragged her into the house. In connection with the case, US embassy officials met with Zahir as he is a dual national with Pakistan and the US. (Munawer Azeem, “Zahir Jaffer confesses to killing Noor, claim police,” Dawn, 27 July 2021)

ECONOMY
IT exports increase by 47 per cent in FY20-21
On 26 July, the Commerce Ministry’s data showed that information technology exports had been recorded at USD 2.12 billion thereby showing an increase of 47.4 per cent in the fiscal year 2020-21. In FY 2019-20, IT exports stood at USD 1.44 billion. The Commerce Adviser said this was the first time Pakistan had crossed the USD two billion mark in IT exports. He said the government had also introduced incentives and other measures to boost the IT exports for the new FY.  (“IT exports cross record $2bn mark,” Dawn, 27 July 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Let the Noor case be a watershed moment to address institutional failures, says opinion 
An opinion in The Express Tribune summarises the prevalence of gender-based violence in Pakistan and cites the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2017-18 which says that 42 per cent women and 40 per cent believe that it is acceptable to beat the wife. The author asks if women are not safe in their homes, then how could they feel safe outside? To add to the problem, he says, victim blaming and the shortfalls of the legal system make it difficult for women to report cases. Therefore, he hopes that the Noor Mukadam murder turns into a watershed moment for Pakistan to “address the institutional and social failures that enable gender-based violence” in the country, instead of being restricted to a hashtag movement. (Hasaan Khawar, “Hashtag justice or watershed moment?,” The Express Tribune, 27 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister arrives in Islamabad
On 27 July, the Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister met with Foreign Minister Qureshi at Islamabad and conveyed that Riyadh would like to expand its bilateral relations through the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council (SP-SCC). The SP-SCC was established in May during Imran Khan’s visit to Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Arabian Minister said that hopefully, the Council will help reach a “milestone in taking the relationship between [Saudi Arabia and Pakistan] to new levels, institutionalising it and exploring all the opportunities that it has to offer.” He further added, “We have agreed to work [together] on regional issues, whether it's Kashmir, Palestine or Yemen. We will work together to ensure stability in both our regions.” (“Saudi Arabia to expand dimension of ties with Pakistan, says FM Prince Faisal,” Dawn, 27 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Federal govt, opposition engage in war of words over poll results
On 26 July, Maryam Nawaz said that she had not accepted the “AJK” election results. She said the PML-N would initiate a strategy against the “shameful rigging in the AJK polls.” Further, the party’s Information Secretary said, “July 25 will be remembered as the day of rigging by vote thieves in the country. The Buzdar administration sent police, teachers, polling and other administrative staff to AJK from Punjab to ensure rigging in the polls. The Punjab government also openly used its machinery to rig polling in nine constituencies falling in the province.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “PML-N plans protests against AJK poll ‘rigging’,” Dawn, 27 July 2021) Meanwhile, the federal Information Ministry said the 52 per cent voter turnout meant that the people were confident in the electoral system, and called on Maryam Nawaz and Bilawal Bhutto to “resign from their posts voluntarily if they have any ‘political shame’ and give chance to new political leadership to emerge within the party.” (“Fawad asks Bilawal, Maryam to step down after ‘historic defeat’ in AJK polls,” The Express Tribune, 27 July 2021)

Ugliest election of recent times, says editorial 
An editorial in Dawn opines that the “AJK” elections were the “ugliest in recent times,” referring to the personal mudslinging and partisan attacks. The editorial says the parties focused on each other and not the issues related to “AJK” and therefore says that the election campaign was reduced to the likes of a street brawl. It says, “the AJK polls have once again shown — if ever more evidence was needed — that the system in place is incapable of producing an election that can be accepted by all stakeholders.” Therefore, it warns that a big disaster is awaiting if the “multiple failures” go unaddressed. (“AJK’s ugly elections,” Dawn, 27 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Chaman border reopened for trade 
On 26 July, Pakistan reopened the Chaman border to resume transit and trade activities. The development comes after business communities of both countries demanded the reopening due to the losses they incurred after the border was sealed. A senior official from Chaman said the border would be open six days a week. (“Afghan trade resumes as Pakistan reopens Chaman border,” Dawn, 27 July 2021)

An editorial in Dawn warns that as Afghanistan slips back into chaos with a rapid Taliban advance, the possibility of refugees spilling over into neighbouring states is becoming stronger. It adds that if such an eventuality occurs, the international community must work with Pakistan to help feed and house displaced Afghans.

An opinion in Dawn states that a Taliban regime in Kabul formed via conquests may be worse for Pakistan than the current one. It adds, a Taliban regime in Kabul will encourage Pakistani terrorist groups to become more active as before 2017. Thus, its critical for Pakistan and other states to keep the Taliban in check and make it impossible for them to win militarily.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that women in Pakistan have been living in an epidemic that starts from the time they are born. It adds, the enablers are not just in the corridors of power, they are in our schools, our offices and our families.

An opinion in The Express Tribune expressed hope that Noor’s case becomes a watershed moment by which society finally start to address the institutional and social failures that enable gender-based violence in Pakistan, and not limit ourselves only to hashtag justice.

An opinion in The News International states that although Pakistan is often touted as an excellent potential tourist destination, in reality, the tourism industry in Pakistan is plagued by poor planning, infrastructural and accessibility challenges, and the rapid congestion occurring in our tourist destinations. These problems, in turn, stem from deeper and structural issues and are linked closely to how our approach to physical spaces and land has manifested over time.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez 

On 26 July, unofficial results for 43 of the total 45 general seats in the “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” (AJK) Legislative Assembly general election confirmed that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) was all set to form the next government. The PTI won in 25 constituencies, followed by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in 10 constituencies and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in six constituencies. Both the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Party (JKPP) and the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference (AJKMC) have also won one seat each.
According to the “AKJ” Election Commission, the polling is said to have gone smoothly. However, bouts of violence were witnessed in the region claiming the lives of two persons as parties clashed additionally, the polling process stopped at several polling stations after activists belonging to rival parties got into violent brawls. The turnout was recorded at around 62 per cent. 

PTI celebrates the early victory
PTI via Twitter said, “The Ambassador of Kashmir has won. Congratulations Pakistan!.” Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry claimed, “InshaAllah, Imran Khan's government in AJK will prove to be a source of strength for the people of occupied Kashmir.” He added, “The turnout in the elections suggests that the common man has taken a keen interest in it and has expressed full confidence in the electoral process.”

Opposition slams PTI-led govt for ‘rigging’ elections
On 25 July, the main opposition parties, PML-N and PPP expressed reservations over the results of the election, accusing the PTI of systematic rigging in the election for the Legislative Assembly. Shehbaz Sharif alleged that the election code was violated and rules of transparency and impartiality were ridiculed in the elections. He said, “The people will remember the way the election code was violated and transparency and impartiality were made irrelevant throughout the day.” Additionally, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb, claimed, “PTI goons” had attacked her party's workers in Gujranwala's Alipur Chatha area to “rig” the election, adding, “Transparency and impartiality becoming increasingly questionable in the AJK elections. Stopping our polling agents from entering the polling stations a violation of election laws.” Meanwhile, PPP leader and former premier Raja Pervez Ashraf accused the PTI government of rigging the elections. Similarly, Senator Sherry Rehman, blamed the federal government for “systematic rigging,” and said it was attempting to “steal” the elections.

Politics as it exists now is a catalyst for further divisions, says opinion
An opinion in Dawn states that the recent campaigning for the Legislative Assembly election in AKJ” has taken political confrontation to a new low. The opinion says the PTI, PML-N and PPP have accused each other of selling out Kashmir, of being friends with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, of compromising on vital national interests. It argues, politics as it exists now is a catalyst for further divisions.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PM to launch countrywide monsoon plantation drive
On 26 July, Dawn reported that Imran Khan will launch the monsoon plantation drive under the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami initiative. Under this plan, the Capital Development Authority is expected to plant close to half a million trees in Islamabad in the coming weeks. Prior to this, on 25 July, Imran Khan called on the youth to come together for the plantation drive. (“PM launches monsoon plantation drive today,” Dawn, 26 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Pakistan among top 10 economies with improved business environment, says report
On 26 July, The Express Tribune reported on the  Annual Report on Investment Security of China's Belt and Road Construction (2021). The report was jointly released by several institutions and classifies Pakistan among the top 10 economies with an improved business environment. The report says that in the last few years, Pakistan had “reformed to simplify the process of starting a company and obtaining a construction permit, implementing a series of preferential policies.” (“Pakistan ranks top 10 in business environment: report,” The Express Tribune, 26 July 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinion analyses tropes prevailing after Noor’s murder
An opinion in Dawn, written in light of Noor Mukkadam’s murder, says that every such incident garner an analysis, from the Pakistani elite, characterised by familiar tropes. The author lists out the tropes: first, a belief that women influenced by “Western” notions are more vulnerable to gender-based violence; second, the “not-all-men” trope; the trope insists on a nationalistic perspective claiming that “Pakistan’s traditional values actually keep women safe.” The author says that such tropes prevail because the state and the society “does not care about its women citizens.” (Umair Javed, “Clinging on to fiction,” Dawn, 2 July 2021)

Insistence on family system a cause for violence against women, says opinion
An opinion in The News International outlines the reasons behind violence against women. The author says one reason is the fixation on the family system. The author says, “this patriarchal, exploitative and often violent system is not under threat but in fact the source of the threat for women within the home and outside.” Referring to Noor Mukkadam’s murder, the author highlights the persistence of victim blaming which, she says, is a reflection of the inability “ to view women beyond these warped conceptions of ‘good’ and ‘bad’.” She concludes by saying that if justice is to be served, it has to begin with a change in mindset. (Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, “Violence, women and militarisation,” The News International, 26 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
FO says Pakistan-China ties have held through regional and global changes
On 25 July, the Foreign Office said the friendship between China and Pakistan had been constant despite a changing regional and global environment. The FO tweeted, “Indeed time-tested Pakistan-China friend­ship has flourished from strength to strength, unaffected by vicissitudes of time and changes in regional and global environment.” This came after Foreign Minister Qureshi’s visit to China. Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson tweeted on the visit, “It proved again that China and Pakistan are the most trustworthy good neighbours, good friends and good brothers to each other.” (“Ties with China have grown from strength to strength: FO,” Dawn, 26 July 2021)

Pakistan foreign policy currently determined by regional development than its desires, says opinio
An opinion in The Express Tribune highlights the foreign policy challenges of Pakistan and says that no policy is working out for Islamabad at the moment. The author opines that talks of rapprochement with India are back to square one after the recommitment to the LoC ceasefire. Further, he says the situation in Afghanistan is “not what Pakistan hoped for”; this includes the stalemate between the Afghan government and Taliban, Islamabad’s tensions with Kabul, and so on. Similarly, he says the US cooperation with Pakistan does not seem to go beyond Afghanistan. Therefore, he concludes that at the moment, Islamabad’s policies “will be determined by events unfolding in the region rather than its desire to seek a transformation.” (Kamran Yousaf, “Pakistan’s tough foreign policy challenges,” The Express Tribune, 26 July 2021)

Security measures to be extended to all Chinese workers, say sources
On 26 July, The Express Tribune reported on Qureshi’s visit to China; sources said Qureshi had conveyed to Chinese officials a review of security measures to Chinese nationals working on all projects in Pakistan. Sources said the new security measures would include Chinese investments and workers even if they do not come under the CPEC projects. The development comes after the Dasu incident; the Dasu hydropower plant was not a part of CPEC and could not, therefore, avail the security measures. (Kamran Yousaf, “New security plan to cover ‘all Chinese workers’,” The Express Tribune, 26 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
46 Afghan soldiers granted safe passage, says ISPR
On 26 July, Dawn reported on an ISPR statement which said that the Pakistan Army had granted “refuge and safe passage” to 46 soldiers of the Afghan National Army and Border Police. The ISPR said that a local ANA commander had asked passage for the 46 soldiers because “they were unable to hold their military posts along [the] Pak-Afghan International Border due to [the] evolving security situation in Afghanistan." (Naveed Siddiqui, “Pakistan Army grants refuge, safe passage to 46 Afghan soldiers at Chitral border: ISPR,” Dawn, 26 July 2021)

An opinion in The News International states that if there is to be ‘justice’ in any real sense, there has to be a change in the mindset, created in large part as a result of the militarisation of our society. The mindset espoused by the prime minister in that one statement itself is a threat to the women of this country, and adds insult to the collective injury inflicted upon Pakistani women. Similarly, an opinion in The News International states gender equality and women empowerment cannot be achieved without conscious efforts. Education and awareness are crucial. Pakistan’s development potential will remain unmet if half of its citizens are excluded. 

An editorial in The Express Tribune on the TikTok Ban states that the authorities have once again rushed to collectively rescue by banning the popular social media platform. It adds, a ban will do little to dissuade the ‘obscene’ and ‘vulgar’ which will only find another platform to exist on, rather what we need to understand is that the internet is a place populated by content and information produced by its very consumer, thus, teaching our children the difference between good and evil would serve as a better option.

Maleeha Lodhi in an opinion in Dawn states that despite the Taliban’s military advance the window is still open for diplomatic efforts to promote a political settlement. She adds, so long as Afghan government forces do not collapse in the face of the Taliban’s military assaults, diplomacy will have a chance.

An opinion in The News International states that ever since the PTI government has come into power Pakistan’s economy has been on a constant downward trajectory. It adds, Pakistan’s economic health must be restored immediately.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar

On 20 July, Noor Mukadam, the 27-year-old daughter of a former diplomat, was murdered in a gruesome manner in Islamabad. On 22 July, Dawn reported on the details of the alleged killer’s arrest; the suspect, Zahir Zakir Jaffer, the son of a wealthy businessman and Noor’s friend, is speculated to have a history of drug abuse. In a press conference, Noor’s father dismissed rumours that the suspect had any “mental disability,” adding, “If such a person was employed as the director of a company, then his parents, too, must be made part of the investigation.” 

Meanwhile, on 23 July, the SAPM on Political Communication said that the Prime Minister is closely following the case and has asked to ensure that no concessions are given to the suspect. Along the same lines, the IGP reportedly issued directives to add Zahir on the Exit Control List.

However, assurances of the above kind have not pacified the common people and Pakistanis on social media are demanding safety of women. For the past few days, #JusticeForNoor has been trending on Twitter. Celebrities have been calling out the concerned authorities and one actor took on those who oppose a bill on women’s protection. She tweeted, “Another day. Another woman brutally killed. Another hashtag. Another trauma. Another (likely) unsolved case. Another trigger. Another fear fest. Another rage roar. Another eid. ‘Protection of women’ bill oppose kernay walon ko mubarik. #JusticeForNoor.” This is not the first hashtag to be trending for a woman who was killed. Prior to this, #JusticeForQuratulain and #JusticeForSaima were also trending and reflects the increasing number of similar cases coming to light. Quratulain was killed by her husband in Karachi, and Saima was killed in Peshawar; all three murders took place within just a week, therefore, fuelling the citizens’ rage. What sets the Noor murder incident apart is the privilege Zahir hold because of family. The question now is whether Zahir will escape the law or not. 

Meanwhile, the outrage against the government also comes in the backdrop of its decision to “send the proposed law on domestic violence to the Council of Islamic Ideology,” an all-male body, to define what abuse against women is. This defeats the purpose of having women voice their opinions on matters that affect them. Further, the suffering of women cuts across classes and is driven by various factors, “misogyny, women’s rights, toxic social attitudes.”; either way, the incident reflects “collective social and political failure of governance.” As long as women and their rights are defined by men, grave issues like the above will recur. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
WAPDA chairman meets with the Chinese ambassador
On 23 July, in efforts to get the work restarted on the Dasu hydropower project, Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) Chairman met with the Chinese Ambassador. During the meeting, matters relating to the construction of the dam were discussed. Additionally, the ambassador expressed resolve to restart construction activities on the project soon. (Amir Wasim, “Efforts intensified for resumption of work on Dasu dam project,” Dawn, 24 July 2021)

Army troops replace militias at the Afghan border
On 24 July, Dawn reported that Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated that Pakistan has moved the Frontier Constabulary, Levies Force and other militias from the front-line positions along the Pak-Afghan border as the army has started to man those positions, saying, “Now regular army troops are manning the border after replacing the paramilitary forces.” Additionally, he said the FC Balochistan and other militias working under the interior ministry had been called back from border patrol. (Kalbe Ali, “Army troops replace militias at Afghan border,” Dawn, 24 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
FM Qureshi in China for the third China-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue
On 23 July, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi along with the Foreign Secretary, ISI Director-General and other officials reached China for participating in the third China-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue. Before departing, Qureshi said, “During my meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi we would review the state of bilateral ties,” adding that the agenda of the meeting had both bilateral and strategic content. Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said the third bilateral Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue will “enhance strategic coordination on bilateral cooperation and international and regional issues of common concern.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Foreign Minister, ISI chief in China for strategic dialogue,” Dawn, 24 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Only PPP will win if polls are held in a fair manner, says Bilawal
On 23 July, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Terming July 25 as a test for the Kashmiris stated that the PPP was bound to win if the POK polls were held in a free, fair and transparent manner. Additionally, he said, “We have a relationship of sacrifices with the Kashmiris, not of the votes,” adding the PPP had always raised its voice and would continue to raise it for the rights of the Kashmiris. (“Only PPP to win if AJK polls held in fair manner: Bilawal,” Dawn, 24 July 2021)

PTI most popular party in POK, says Gallup Pakistan
On 24 July, The News International reported that according to a survey conducted by Gallup Pakistan revealed that the PTI has emerged as the most popular party in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, with 44 per cent believing that the PTI will win the election. Meanwhile, the survey shows that PML-N and PPP enjoy 12 per cent and nine per cent popularity respectively. (“PTI most popular party in AJK: Gallup Pakistan,” The News International, 24 July 2021)

ON KASHMIR
Kashmiris can opt for independence even after accession, says PM
On 23 July, PM Imran Khan while speaking at two said that Islamabad would grant the Kashmiris the right to live as an independent nation if they decided to do so even after acceding to Pakistan through the United Nations-sponsored plebiscite. He said, “Afterwards, we will hold another referendum whereby Kashmiri people will be asked to decide whether they want to live with Pakistan or as an independent nation,” adding, “Remember, the decision has to be made by the Kashmiris themselves… And the day is not far when you will decide about your future status of your own free accord.” (Tariq Naqash, “Kashmiris can opt for independence even after accession: PM,” Dawn, 24 July 2021)

An editorial in Dawn on the threat posed to the country by terrorist groups’ sleeper cells says that it is imperative that hostile, non-state actors be apprehended before they are able to spill innocent blood once again in this country.

An editorial in The News International states that International bodies including the FATF need to act impartially and neutrally while making decisions that have a major influence on the financial dealings of other nations and, consequently, on the welfare and wellbeing of their economy and their people.

An opinion in The News International stated that with situation in the region changing very rapidly, especially in Afghanistan once again has the potential to affect regional stability. Thus, Pakistan needs to upgrade the approach so as to ensure sustainable peace and integrity in the region.

An opinion in The Express Tribune on the environmental charter states that it is a good idea to develop consensus on a long-term environmental vision for Pakistan, however, it states that while clear-eyed evaluations of ongoing environmental projects remain vital, it would be a shame to see these efforts fall prey to political vendetta.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that one of the core reasons of institutional decline in Pakistan is the pervasive culture of mediocrity and sycophancy.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernadez

Pakistan’s power crisis is a perennial problem a result of supply shortages, non-payment of dues, transmission losses, under-investment, circular debt crisis, and inefficiencies of manpower and plants. As a means to address the issue, the government in the 1990s initiated reforms by opening up private investment in thermal power generation, followed by reforms of the two-state utilities: Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) (now K-Electric) privatisation and unbundling of the Pakistan Water & Power Development Authority (WAPDA). To meet the electricity demands, the late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto launched the 1994 Power Policy to attract the Independent Power Producers (IPP). Several incentives were offered to investors including long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) containing GOP (government of Pakistan) sovereign guarantees for the payment obligations of the buyers (Wapda and the KESC). Additionally, the Private Power Infrastructure Board (PPIB) was formulated to act as a one-window face of the Government of Pakistan to facilitate potential investors and IPPs.

Currently, there are over 40 IPPs that contribute towards generating electricity in Pakistan. However, the problems and challenges continue to persist over the years. An inquiry committee, formed by the government to investigate IPPs, revealed that energy producers have made billions of rupees in the past two decades due to flawed policies, adding that IPPs’ accounts reveal profits more than what was permitted to them. Besides this, the report claimed that some newly established IPPs “misrepresented” their set-up cost. Another issue is the question of governance and accountability comes to light. The delay and reluctance of the government to pay IPP dues, under an already agreed deal have pulled back the power sector from being efficient. Additionally, the ECC decision to clear the dues of the pre-2002 projects preventing both government and consumers from reaping the benefits of the deal. An editorial in Dawn argues “if the accountability authority does not back off, the possibility of the affected IPPs using their right of international arbitration and invoking sovereign guarantees cannot be ruled out. This would harm prospects of future investment in this country and our relationship with multilateral.”

Earlier in 2021, the government signed revised agreements with 46 private investors and dozens of public-sector entities, in an attempt to bring an end to the controversy over unaffordable and expensive electricity generation contracts. However, these renegotiations will impact future investments, especially those in the power sector. As written in Dawn, “the government in its eagerness to go after the IPPs may have forgotten that a perennially capacity-short country like Pakistan can ill afford to attract private power investment without the help of an investment philosophy that protects the financial risks of the investor. This is especially true if the market is not liberalised, and the existence of vertical monopolies requires assurances from an investor’s point of view.”

In Brief
INTERNAL
COAS lauds army’s preparedness along Pak-Afghan border
On 21 July, COAS General Bajwa appreciated the army formations and preparedness along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and its commitment to defending the borders amid ongoing challenges. The ISPR quoted the COAS, “We are ever ready to defend Pakistan against all the threats and at all costs.” Earlier in the day, Foreign Minister Qureshi said spoilers were attempting to harm ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan and called on the Afghan government to review the recalling of their ambassador. (“Military to ensure border security in face of evolving challenges: COAS,” The Express Tribune, 21 July 2021)

PTA announces ban on TikTok
On 21 July, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority announced a suspension of TikTok citing “continuous presence of inappropriate content.” This is the fourth such ban after it was last banned by the Sindh High Court on 28 June due to “immorality and obscenity.” The Sindh HC later withdrew its decision. (“TikTok blocked in Pakistan, again,” The News International, 21 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Police deployed at Luari Sharif shrine amid sectarian tension
On 21 July, Dawn reported that police had been deployed at the Luari Sharif shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Mohammad Zaman due to heightened differences between two groups of his disciples; the shrine was closed 37 years ago; the latest tensions come after reports, claiming that a group of disciples were planning to perform Haj at the shrine, were afloat. Following these reports, the government imposed Section 144, and that the rival group would attempt to foil the plans. (Muhammad Hashim Khan Bhurgari, “Police deployed at Luari Sharif shrine amid sectarian tension,” Dawn, 22 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Non-textile exports record 11.7 per cent growth in outgoing fiscal year
On 21 July, Dawn reported that non-textile exports’ growth had been recorded at 11.7 per cent in FY 2020-21; non-textile exports amounted to USD 9.904 billion. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics leather garments, surgical instruments and engineering goods witnessed growth despite COVID restrictions. Meanwhile, export of food items recorded only a 0.74 per cent growth due to food shortages internally and lowe demands globally. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Non-textile exports post double-digit growth in FY21,” Dawn, 22 July 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Ensure justice for all or admit some are less than others, editorial calls on EU 
An editorial in Dawn questions the commitment of European states to the idea of separation of church and state, and allowing people to live as they like. The editorial outlines that the EU court’s decision to allow employers to ban female employees wearing the headscarf is against tolerance. It opines that the move will further fuel tensions than reiterate the European secularism. It says that European countries, therefore, are now “pandering to right-wing populists in targeting the cultural and religious practices of immigrants and European residents of non-white backgrounds.” It concludes by calling on the EU to ensure justice for all residents equally or admit that “some within its borders are less equal than others.” (“EU headscarf ban,” Dawn, 21 July 2021)

Atta-ur-Rehman, in an opinion in The News International, outlines the importance of innovation and knowledge economy but highlights that the education system in Pakistan was not producing thinkers and innovators. He lists out reasons for the same, such as lack of quality education and inadequate budgetary allocation to the sector. 

An opinion in The Express Tribune outlines the burden of household work on women in Pakistan, terming it "oppressive and patriarchal." The author outlines the vanishing gender roles but says that significant changes are not visible when it comes to familial expectations. Referring to Engels, she says change will come when there is "economic independence and formal participation of women in economic activity."

In Focus
By Aproova Sudhakar

On 19 July, the “AJK” Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider alleged that Imran Khan and his cabinet were “brazenly desecrating and contravening AJK’s Constitution.” Citing that Imran Khan had been bringing Ali Amin Gandapur, whom the “AJK Election Commission” had banned from participation in any poll-related activities, Haider said it “amounts to a serious disgrace to the people and institutions of Azad Kashmir.”  Therefore, Haider, after consultation with the PML-N, threatened to stage a sit-in; Haider is also the PML-N regional president. His remarks come a day after the first phase of polling commenced on 18 July; the Assembly will be elected on 25 July.  

Parties contesting 
As many as 724 candidates are contesting for 45 general seats in the elections; of this, 579 candidates are contesting for 33 constituencies and the rest are “are competing for 12 refugee constituencies comprising four provinces of Pakistan.” Majorly, five parties are contesting the elections, the PTI, PPP, PML-N, TLP, and All J&K Muslim Conference. Other parties contesting the elections include Jamat-e-Islami, Jammu Kashmir People’s Party, JK Liberation League, Muttahida Qaumi Movement, J&K Awami Tehreek, and Pakistan People’s Party (Shaheed Bhutto). 

Major issues 
An opinion in The News explains that politics in “AJK” has been “fixated on Occupied Kashmir rather than focusing on their primary task of democratizing and strengthening local institutions,” adding that any political campaign “remains heavily tilted towards the conflict of J&K rather than indigenous socio-economic development.” The author says that therefore, “AJK” and its people have not experienced socio-economic development, nor have any major party put forward a package for the same. For example, unemployment, lack of modernisation of the agricultural sector and similar problems are yet to be addressed. Further, he highlights another problem with the “AJK” elections which is the dynastic and elitist approach wherein constituency-level governance is also guided by patronage. Further, election results over the years reflect that the party at the federal level always wins the “AJK” election too, thereby bringing into question the transparency of the polls. 

Previous few elections
2016: In 2016, the PML-N bagged 31 seats, the PPP and Muslim Conference won three seats each, the PTI won two and the Jammu Kashmir Peoples Party (JKPP) bagged one. Of this, PML-N won all seven seats in the Muzaffarabad division. At the time, Haider said the PML-N win was a testimony to the popularity of the then PM Nawaz Sharif, adding, “It’s also proof that Kashmiri voters have completely rejected the incessant diatribe of our opponents against him.”

2011: In 2011, the PPP won the elections with 19 of the 36 seats in the preliminary results. The 2011 elections also recorded the first time that the PML-N contested the “AJK” elections as it had previously been supporting the Muslim Conference (MC). The PML-N however won only nine seats and MC bagged four seats. 

2006: In 2006, the then federal ruling party MC formed the “AJK” government with a two-third majority, after three independent candidates also joined the party. At the time, concerns regarding rigging were raised and in 2008, the “People’s Party AJK” said, “But our right to form a government of our choice which was usurped by the previous autocratic regime of Mr Musharraf should be returned to us.” 

In Brief
INTERNAL
PM Khan asks party leader to prepare for the 2023 general elections
On 20 July, Dawn reported that PM Imran Khan instructed PTI leaders to prepare for the 2023 general elections. Additionally, he asked the party members to start PTI’s door-to-door membership campaign aimed at expanding the party vote bank for the next general elections. (“Imran tells party leaders to prepare for 2023 elections,” Dawn, 20 July 2021)

Tareen group meeting convened to review government’s promises
On 20 July, The Express Tribune reported that Jahangir Tareen has convened an important meeting of his group after Eidul Azha to review the federal government's promises. The group is scheduled to hold consultations on 2 and 3 August on political strategy. The implementation of the promises made to the group before the budget will also be reviewed. (“Tareen group meeting convened to review govt promises,” The Express Tribune, 20 July 2021)

PM shares 'fruitful' results of billion tree plantation drive in Bhakkar, says “greening” of Pakistan meant for future generations
On 20 July, PM Imran Khan expressed satisfaction over the results of the billion-tree plantation drive in Bhakkar in just two-and-a-half years. In a Tweets, he said, “The greening of Pakistan is meant for future generations.” He added, InshaAllah we will leave a clean and green Pakistan for future generations.” Further, he urged the nation to gear up for “the biggest tree planting campaign in our history,” adding, “I want all Pakistanis, esp our youth, to gear up for the biggest tree planting campaign in our history. We have a lot of catching up to do.” (“PM shares 'fruitful' results of billion tree plantation drive in Bhakkar,” The Express Tribune, 20 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Government obtains 34 per cent more foreign loans in FY21
On 19 July, the Ministry of Economic Affairs in a report stated that Pakistan borrowed about USD 14.3 billion to build foreign exchange reserves in the recently concluded fiscal year (FY21), 34 per cent higher than a year earlier. This increase comes despite healthy remittances and higher exports. 
Additionally, the ministry stated that the government received USD 14.283 billion foreign loans during the fiscal year 2020-21, compared to USD 10.66 billion in 2019-20, showing an increase of 34 per cent. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt obtains 34pc more foreign loans in FY21,” Dawn, 20 July 2021)

Food import bill grew by 53.91 per cent
On 19 July, data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed that the country’s food import bill grew by 53.91 per cent to USD 8.347 billion year-on-year during the previous fiscal year (FY21). The surge was mainly due to sugar, wheat, palm oil and pulses imports to bridge the shortfall in domestic production of agriculture produce. Additionally, the thus rising food import bill also triggered a trade deficit that may cause some uneasiness on the external side for the government. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Food import bill surges by over 53pc,” Dawn, 20 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
State Department appreciates Pakistan’s efforts to implement the FATF action plans
On 19 July, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said the US appreciates Pakistan’s efforts to implement the FATF action plan. He added that Pakistan showed great progress to meet the first action plan, given by the FATF and appreciated that Pakistan implemented 26 out of total 27 points of the action plan. Additionally, he said, Pakistan should take measures for stopping terror financing and implement the FATF action plan swiftly. (“US hails Pak efforts to implement FATF points: State Dept,” The News International, 20 July 2021)

COAS meets with Chinese Ambassador
On 19 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong. During the meeting, COAS Bajwa said that Pakistan greatly valued its brotherly relations with its time-tested friend and will spare no effort to protect the Chinese citizens working on different projects in the country. Additionally, he assured the ambassador of full support and cooperation and security of Chinese citizens working in Pakistan. (“We need to stay strong to thwart designs of enemies: COAS,” The News International, 20 July 2021)

PM and COAS meets with Zalmay Khalilzad
On 19 July, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad met PM Imran Khan and COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa. During the meetings, Khalilzad stressed the urgency of a comprehensive political settlement between the Afghan government and the Taliban, one that leads to a sustainable peace and preserves Afghanistan’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. (“US envoy on Afghanistan meets PM, COAS,” The News International, 20 July 2021)

ON INDIA
Pakistan to raise hacking by India of Imran’s phone, says Information Minister
On 19 July, Information Minis­ter Fawad Chaudhry expressed concern over reports that the Indian government allegedly used Israeli software to spy on journalists and political opponents said the unethical policies of the Modi government have “dangerously polarised India and the region.” He added, “we are waiting for details of the hacking” after which the issue will be raised at appropriate forums. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Pakistan to raise hacking by India of Imran’s phone,” Dawn, 20 July 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that Afghanistan is one place where proxy war by regional and bigger powers has always been a constant, stating that Pakistan is just one player among many.

An opinion in Dawn states that groundwater is indeed ‘most poorly understood,’ arguing that today, Pakistan stands fourth in groundwater abstraction, with the weak implementation of environmental laws, low investment in wastewater treatment, and unmanaged, unlicensed expansion of pumping infrastructure have turned pristine water toxic.

An opinion in Dawn states that neither India nor Pakistan is now pushed about talking, mainly because the relationship is subordinate to a complex set of interests on both sides, domestic and external, serving purposes larger than their own ties. It argues, dialogues alone do not solve problems, what is needed is change in the contexts in which they operate.

An editorial in Dawn on the abduction of the daughter of Afghanistan’s ambassador to Pakistan states that the entire affair has put Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan under strain. It says that the Islamabad police needs to build a watertight case around their final conclusions because the stakes could not have been higher, whereas the Kabul government should have waited for the final investigations before taking the drastic step of recalling its staff from Islamabad, adding it should see reason and avoid further vitiation of the situation, as this would be in both sides’ interest.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 16 July, PM Imran Khan while addressing the “Central and South Asia Regional Connectivity: Challenges and Opportunities” conference criticized Afghan President Ashraf Ghani for his allegation about Pakistan’s “negative role” in the Afghan peace process. He said it was “extremely unfair” to blame Islamabad for the situation in Afghanistan. He added, “President Ghani let me just say that the country that will be most affected by turmoil in Afghanistan is Pakistan,” adding, “I repeat the last thing we want is turbulence in Afghanistan. No country has tried harder than Pakistan to bring the Taliban to the table for dialogue. We have made every effort, short of taking military action against the Taliban in Pakistan, to get them on the dialogue table and to have a peaceful settlement [in Afghanistan].” He said, “The whole idea was to look upon Pakistan as a partner in peace. I feel disappointed that we have been blamed for what is going on in Afghanistan.”

Meanwhile, Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri announced that Pakistan has decided to postpone the Afghan peace conference, which was scheduled from 17-19 July until after Eid Al-Azha adding, that the new dates of the conference will be announced later. According to Geo news, the decision comes after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani asked PM Imran Khan to “cancel” the conference.

In recent months, Pakistan has received criticism over its role in Afghanistan. Most recently, on 15 July, Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh alleged that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) had “issued an official warning to the Afghan Army and air force that any move to dislodge the Taliban from Spin Boldak area will be faced and repelled,” claiming that the PAF was ‘providing close air support to [Afghan] Taliban’ in certain areas of the country. In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the allegation saying that the Afghan side had conveyed to Pakistan its intention of carrying out an air operation inside its territory opposite Pakistan's Chaman, adding, “Pakistan responded positively to the Afghan Government’s right to act in its territory.” The statement read, “PAF never communicated anything to the Afghan Air Force. Such statements undermine Pakistan’s sincere efforts to play its part in an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led solution,” adding, “We remain committed to peace in Afghanistan and shall continue to endeavour towards this end irrespective of the detractors.”

These allegations and tensions come after the Taliban took control of the Spin Boldak crossing, Chaman on the Pakistani side of the border on 14 July, where the white flag of the Afghan Taliban replaced the Afghan government’s flag at the border crossing. With the Taliban launching an offensive across the county, taking control of several district capitals from Afghan government forces has raised concerns in Pakistan. However, many in Afghanistan are blaming Pakistan for the current turmoil in their country, alleging that the Pakistani military and its intelligence agencies are backing the Taliban following the withdrawal of foreign troops. The allegations are however not new, Afghan officials have always argued that Pakistan provides shelter and military support to the Taliban, and with the US withdrawal, Pakistan’s alleged interference in Afghanistan has become a major topic of discussion not only from the Afghan government but also media and civil society. Although Pakistan denies allegations that it supports the Taliban, the Afghans do not accept this claim. Thus, Pakistan finds itself caught between the crosshair of the Afghan government and a narrative played out in the Afghan media.

An editorial in The Daily Times critical of this blame game states, “it’s a bit rich of the Americans, and also Afghans, to blame Pakistan for all their troubles in Afghanistan. First, for all the years of this long and ugly war, they kept asking Islamabad to “do more,” and never tired of blaming the Pakistani army, especially its intelligence agencies, for the Taliban’s military victories,” adding, “instead of blaming Pakistan for everything that is going wrong, it’s a better idea for the Afghan government to do what it can to put its own house in order.”

The tension between Kabul and Islamabad are likely to remain tense as the Taliban continues its offensive. This in turn would result in further incoordination and misunderstanding between the two parties. Pakistan is no doubt an important player in the Afghan negotiations, thus, understanding between Kabul and Islamabad is an important aspect that needs to be fixed.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Senate passes another FATF- related bill 
On 16 July, the Senate passed another FATF-related bill amidst protests from the opposition. The Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal Matters) Amendment Bill was put for voting through division and was carried by 43 against 33 votes. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Senate passes FATF-related bill amid opposition protest,” Dawn, 17 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Foreign Direct Investment declines 29 per cent in FY21
On 16 July, data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) the inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into different sectors of Pakistan’s economy fell 28.9 per cent to USD 1.85 billion in the fiscal year 2020-21. The drop was attributed primarily due to the global travel disruption that prevented foreigners from visiting the country for investment purposes. Additionally, the data showed that foreign investment in Pakistan had stood at USD 2.6 billion in the fiscal year 2019-20. (“Foreign Direct Investment declines 29% in FY21,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
PM Khan assures Chinese PM Li Keqiang of thorough investigation in Dasu incident
On 16 July, PM Imran Khan in a telephonic conversation with his Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang assured that 'no effort' will be spared to 'fully investigate' the Kohistan bus incident that claimed the lives of nine Chinese nationals. Additionally, PM Khan assured the premier that the security of Chinese nationals, workers, projects, and institutions in Pakistan was the "highest priority of the government." Further, he reiterated that "Pakistan and China had an iron-clad friendship which had withstood the vicissitudes of time. No hostile forces would be allowed to damage brotherly relations between Pakistan and China." (“PM Imran assures Chinese counterpart of thorough investigation in Dasu incident,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2021)

COAS meets with US Chargé d' Affaires
On 16 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with the US Chargé d' Affaires to Pakistan Angela Aggeler. During the meeting, COAS Bajwa stated that Pakistan desired to maintain the tradition of bilateral engagement and wished for a long-term and multi-domain enduring relationship. Additionally, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, the regional and current security situation in Afghanistan, and bilateral cooperation in various fields. (“Pakistan desires long-term ties with US: General Qamar Javed Bajwa,” The News International, 17 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Several injured brought to Quetta for treatment from Afghanistan
On 17 July, Dawn reported that although the Pak-Afghan border at Chaman remained sealed, over 30 injured people were allowed to enter the border town from Afghanistan for medical treatment. Pakistani border authorities at Chaman said that two bodies and the injured people were allowed to cross into Chaman from Wesh town of Afghanistan. Previously, on 15 July, Pakistan had opened its border with Afghanistan for three hours to allow Afghans and Pakistanis who had been stranded on both sides of the border. (Saleem Shahid, “Over 30 injured people brought to Quetta for treatment from Afghanistan,” Dawn, 17 July 2021)

PM Imran calls upon the EU to support the rehabilitation of Afghan refugees
On 17 July, PM Imran Khan during a meeting with the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borell called upon the bloc and the international community to support Pakistan in the rehabilitation of Afghan refugees. Further, he reiterated the importance of continued engagement of the international community following the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan to facilitate lasting peace in the war-torn country. (“PM Imran calls upon EU, int'l community to support rehabilitation of Afghan refugees,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Regions Election Commission imposes ban on Gandapur
On 16 July, POK’s Election Commission imposed a ban on federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Ali Amin Gandapur on his participation and speeches in election-related events in AJK. A letter to this effect was sent by the commission’s secretary to POK’s with a directive to ensure implementation of the decision and submission of a compliance report. The letter stated that the commission had come to know that Gandapur had made unpleasant comments in his speeches at different public meetings in the region, apart from announcing development packages worth billions of rupees. (Saleem Shahid, “AJK Election Commission slaps ban on Gandapur,” Dawn, 17 July 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Tragic lesson of Srebrenica
An opinion in Dawn on the 26th anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre states that humanity bears collective responsibility for what happened in Bosnia. Humanity must not rest in peace till all the perpetrators of the genocide are brought to trial and justice meted out to those traumatised by the tragic events in 1995. It adds that wrongdoings should never be dealt with through expediency and compromise but with strong collective resistance by all civilised people who believe in human rights and justice. This is the important but tragic lesson of Srebrenica. (Murad Moosa Khan, “Srebrenica’s lessons,” Dawn, 17 July 2021) 

An editorial in Dawn on the Dasu bus tragedy stated that the incident is yet another reminder that the threat of militancy is ever present. It says that the return of this threat could take Pakistan back to the era of uncertainty and strife.

An opinion in Dawn asks why is the expression of creativity being censored instead of being harnessed? why are women being shamed and blamed for enticing men instead of men being punished for not being ‘robots’? It says these questions must be grappled with at the highest levels, and answered at the family and school level to bring up boys who respect women rather than girls who are taught to be invisible, adding that this is the way forward for society to be cohesive, respectful and moral; not outfits and “this app is banned” notices.

Fahd Husain in an opinion in Dawn states that with the elections due in two years, and the rigours of the campaign shimmering on the horizon, the hostility will only worsen. As the country grapple with weighty matters abroad, the great strategic imbalance at home may get overwhelming.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez and Juan Maria Joseph 

On 14 July, a Chinese company's shuttle bus carrying working staff on the Dasu Hydropower Project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province was hit by a blast on its way to the construction site. Around nine Chinese citizens and three Pakistani citizens were killed while several were injured. The cause of the blast is yet to be identified with the Pakistani foreign ministry saying it took place due to a “mechanical failure,” while a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson referred to it as an “attack.” The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan called on Pakistan to carry out rescue and treatment and strengthen security protection for the Chinese citizens, institutions and projects in Pakistan, and investigate the incident thoroughly.

This attack is not the first incident where Chinese firms, investments and persons in Pakistan have come under attack. The killing of the engineers in the western province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is not the first instance of violence against Chinese nationals in Pakistan. The attack comes weeks after the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) set fire on installations made by Chinese telecom companies in Balochistan’s Quetta and detained six officials who were involved with the projects.

The attacks can be attributed as a post-CPEC phenomenon. The launch of the CPEC in 2013, later brought about an influx of Chinese nationals to Pakistan with close to 60,000 people being recorded by officials in the planning and interior ministries in 2018. The security of thousands of Chinese workers in Pakistan is a sensitive issue, given the nature of Pak-China relations. In the recent past Chinese building sites, symbols and citizens have been attacked by local insurgents in Pakistan. Although the first such attack dates back to 2004, when a car bomb in Gwadar had killed three engineers from China, the post CPEP period has seen attacks on various projects, the Chinese consulate in Karachi and the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) because China had a 40 per cent stake in this bourse have come under attack. Most recently in April, the Pakistani Taliban claimed a suicide bombing at a luxury hotel in southwest Balochistan province in which China’s ambassador was residing. Given the situation, Pakistan has raised a new dedicated division of its army, which comprises more than 10,000 soldiers to protect the Chinese as well as thousands of paramilitary and police personnel have been stationed to guard the projects and personnel.

As China’s economic investment projects in Pakistan grows, there has also been diversification and expansion into several other sectors including educational, media and other non-CPEC projects. However, despite this investment, some believe that those locals are not benefiting from the Pakistan-China collaborative projects. In Balochistan, which has witnessed several such attacks Baloch separatists, both militant and political groups, oppose China’s increasing involvement in the province. In the past, the Chinese have been particularly targeted in Pakistan by separatist insurgents from the southwestern province of Balochistan who claims that China is exploiting resources in their province. Additionally, Jihadist groups who have become more active in recent months have also been behind some of these attacks.

The occasional attacks on Chinese engineers, infrastructure and projects are a reminder of Pakistan’s fight against militancy. The rising attacks against the Chinese are raising the costs and the risks associated with Chinese investments in Pakistan. With China gaining more foothold in the regional politics of the region, it remains to be seen how they will address these concerns. Given that China is Pakistan’s most important security and economic partner, providing everything from military technology to building nuclear power plants in the country, authorities would have to ensure that such incidents whether caused by militancy or accidentally are avoided so that the relations between the ‘iron brothers’ is not affected.

Recent attacks 
In November 2018, three suicide bombers attacked the Chinese consulate in Karachi’s Clifton area but were killed by security forces before they could enter the building. Two security guards were killed in the attack. Pakistan failed to prove the alleged "involvement" of India in a case relating to the Consulate attack earlier in May this year. According to the charge sheet registered, the attack was carried out by the BLA with assistance from India's Research and Analysis Wing to harm China - Pakistan relations. 

In May 2019, gunmen from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) stormed a five-star hotel in Pakistan‘s port city of Gwadar and killed at least five people, including a Pakistani Navy soldier. The attack was targeted at Chinese and other foreign investors who were staying at the hotel as part of the CPEC project. All guests at the hotel were however safely evacuated. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the attack and termed the attack as “efforts to sabotage Pakistan’s economic projects and prosperity”.

In June 2020, four militants were killed by police commandos when they tried to shoot their way into the Karachi Stock Exchange, which is 40 per cent owned by a consortium of three Chinese bourses.

In April 2021, a Pakistani Taliban suicide bomber blew himself up outside a luxury hotel in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province near the Afghan border, killing at least 4 and wounding 12. The Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, Nong Rong, who had checked in to the hotel was the presumed target, although he was not in the building at the time of the explosion. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Former President Mamnoon Hussain passes away at 80
On 14 July, former President Mamnoon Hussain passed away at the age of 80; he had been under treatment for cancer since February 2020. Hussain was a businessman in Karachi and joined politics in the 1960s. Hussain had joined the PML-N in 1990, and served the governor of Sindh June to October 1999. After serving as the 12th President from 2013-2018, he maintained a low profile. When he was appointed as the President in 2013, he resigned from his PML-N membership “to establish himself as a non-partisan president.” (“Former president Mamnoon Hussain passes away in Karachi at 80,” Dawn, 15 July 2021)

Senate body calls for strict punishment to Islamabad viral video case culprits
On 14 July, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior asked the police to ensure that the culprits involved in the recent video case in Islamabad are awarded maximum punishment to prevent similar crimes in the future. The SSP Investigation apprised the Senate panel that the preliminary investigation showed the incident was accidental; of the eight suspects, seven have been arrested so far. The preliminary investigation also did not reveal any sexual harassment . Further, the Senate panel also directed the police to provide protection to the couple in the said video. (“Senate body wants strict action against suspects in couple harassment case,” Dawn, 15 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Two Army troops killed in Pasni town
On 15 July, the ISPR said that an Army officer and a soldier were killed in a terrorist attack in Balochistan’s Pasni town; the terrorists used an IED. A search operation has been launched to trace the perpetrators. (“Pak Army officer, soldier martyred in terrorist attack near Pasni: ISPR,” Dawn, 15 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Foreign exchange reserves stand at USD 18.2 billion at five-year high
On 15 July, Dawn reported that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) had received USD one billion through Eurobonds thereby increasing the foreign exchange reserves to USD 18.2 billion; this is reportedly a five-year high. Pakistan had issued Eurobonds worth USD 300 million at 5.857 per cent for five years, USD 400 million at 7.125 per cent for 10 years, and USD 300 million at 8.54 per cent for 30 years. In FY 2015-16, foreign exchange reserves were recorded at USD 18.14 billion. (“$1bn takes SBP reserves to five-year high,” Dawn, 15 July 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinion outlines reasons and impact of victim blaming
An opinion in The Express Tribune, referring to Imran Khan’s remarks on dressing as a cause for rape, highlights the reasons behind victim blaming in societies, especially by people in power. The author says one reason is the lack of effective policies for women’s safety and therefore, “victim blaming was used as a self-defence strategy by the PM.” Next, she outlines the prevalence of a “just world hypothesis” which says “people deserve what happens to them.” She cautions against such remarks as they embolden the perpetrators and victim blaming is althemore wrong as it “increases their levels of distress, depression and anxiety, further aggravating their post-traumatic stress.” Therefore, to she calls on the state to hold perpetrators accountable, promote sex education and urge the clergies to create awareness. (Dr Bela Nawaz/Dr Sana Hussain, “Women empowerment and victim blaming,” The Express Tribune, 15 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Prime Minister to attend two-day summit in Uzbekistan
On 15 July, The News International reported that Imran Khan had arrived in Tashkent for a two-day summit, “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities” which has been initiated by the Uzbekistan President. The Conference will be held on 15 and 16 July; it focuses on “strengthening historically close and friendly ties, trust and good-neighbourliness between Central and South Asia.” The news report suggests that Pakistan expects that such platforms would boost connectivity, trade and tourism. (Ashraf Malkham, “CASA connectivity and economic opportunities: PM in Tashkent for two-day conference,” The News International, 15 July 2021)

COAS meets with Tajik Defense Minister; discuss Afghan situation
On 14 July, COAS General Bajwa met with Tajikistan's Defence Minister; the ISPR said the two dignitaries discussed the recent developments in Afghanistan. They also focused on the situation at the Tajik-Afghan border and ways to improve ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan. The News International quoted from the ISPR, “Pakistan values its brotherly relations with Tajikistan, which are based on shared faith, culture and convergence on all important issues relating to regional peace, security and stability.” (“Tajikistan's defence minister, Gen Bajwa discuss recent developments in Afghanistan,” The News International, 15 July 2021)

Dasu incident was not a terror attack, Qureshi tells Chinese counterpart
On 15 July, the Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a statement which said that Pakistan’s Foreign Minister had told his Chinese counterpart that the bus accident near the Dasu hydropower plant was not a terror attack; Qureshi met the Chinese Foreign Minister at the Shanghai Cooperation Council of Foreign Ministers on 14 July in Dushanbe. Dawn quotes the Chinese Minister from the statement, “Lessons should be learned from the incident, and the security measures for China-Pakistan cooperation projects should be further strengthened to ensure the safe and smooth operation of all projects.” (“Kohistan bus tragedy an accident, not a terror attack: Qureshi to Chinese FM,” Dawn, 15 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Chaman border sealed as Taliban captures Afghan town
On 14 July, Pakistan sealed its border with Afghanistan running along Chaman after the Taliban reportedly took control of the Wesh town in Afghanistan, located opposite Chaman. Sources said heavy fighting took place between the Taliban and Afghan government before the former seized the town. Sources said, therefore, “The Friendship Gate at the Pak-Afghan border has been closed from both sides, which stopped all kinds of traffic and human movement at the border.” Meanwhile, on the same day, Imran Khan invited former Afghan president Hamid Karzai to an international conference which will be hosted by Pakistan. (Saleem Shahid, “Border sealed as Taliban seize Afghan frontier town,” Dawn, 15 July 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that Afghanistan will remain a state but no nation. It says, Afghanistan will never experience the post-war renaissance that post-1945 Germany and Japan did, arguing that the West has left it to scavenge for its future amongst its ruins, just as ragged Iraq, Libya and Yemen are being forced to do. An opinion in The Express Tribune states that Afghans who witnessed peace in Afghanistan are either dead or living abroad comfortably in western nations.

An editorial in Dawn critical of functioning of the judiciary states countless litigants in Pakistan do not live to see property disputes decided in their lifetimes. It suggests that as the court began hearing cases through video link connectivity for the first time; this method must be scaled up from its present limited use.

An editorial in Dawn states that the recent launch of Pakistan’s first electric underscores his government’s strong push towards lower vehicle emissions led by the adoption of electric vehicles as part of its EV Policy 2020-2025 approved last year. However, it states that Unless there is a breakthrough in battery technology, electric motorcycles are unlikely to replace their internal combustion engine counterparts.

An editorial in The Nation states that remittances will continue to increase so long as the pandemic rages. By extension, relying on remittances to be the only tool for economic revitalisation is extremely unsustainable. Instead, the government must create strategies that enhance exports, encourage production domestically and facilitate projects that are bound to bring in profits.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar 

On 13 July, Geo News reported that the All Pakistan Private Schools Federation (APPSF) had released a documentary titled “I am not Malala Day.” The APPSF President said, “We mark this day, July 12, as a black day and in our schools we are teaching our students to shun the ideology of Malala;'' 12 July also marks Nobel laureate Malala Yousufzai’s birthday. The backlash comes after her recent remarks on marriage wherein she said, “I still don’t understand why people have to get married. If you want to have a person in your life, why do you have to sign marriage papers, why can’t it just be a partnership?” To this, the APPSF opined that she was propagating Western values and maintained that marriage is a Sunnah and “partnership is adultery” which is a sin in Islam. Further, he claimed that no Pakistani will “want their children to follow in the footsteps of Malala, even if she keeps on winning accolades and awards.” 

A day prior to this, on 12 July, the Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PTCB) raided the Oxford University Press office and confiscated textbooks for printing her picture in a list of key personalities, which included Jinnah, Liaqat Ali Khan, Abdul Sattar Edhi, Maj Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, and the like. 

However, the criticism against Malala is not new; the backlash started within a year of the shooting incident (2012) when she delivered a speech at the UN on her 16th birthday in 2013. She is viewed as a “Western agent” who allegedly wants to shame Pakistan. In 2013, the APPSF members were barred from buying her book titled “I am Malala” on claims that it contained “anti-Pakistan and anti-Islam content.” At the time, the APPSF President said the book, written by Christina Lamb, showed that “Malala has nexus with Salman Rushdie and Taslima Nasrin, and also has alignment with Salman Rushdie's ideological club.” Some of her critics also deny Malala’s views and maintain that she was lying about the Taliban campaign in Pakistan, terming it an American agenda. 

Apart from the above conspiracy theory-like arguments, criticism against Malala is also characterised by sexism; an opinion explains, “rather than embracing female survivors of hideous, politically motivated violence, Pakistanis prefer them to shut up and go away, not to use their ordeals as a platform to campaign for justice.” Due to this, they also ignore the content of her work. Further, the author says the criticism crops up because Pakistanis do not know what to stand for and hence, are susceptible to conspiracy theories and confuse themselves about the right and the wrong. Similarly, such critics also conveniently ignore “gaffes of their head of government.” Having said the above, several feel that Malala’s courage is praiseworthy and is important for the coming generations as one cannot deny the necessity of education for girls in Pakistan. Therefore, though one may disagree with her, the fact that her words hold weight is undeniable. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Six Chinese engineers among 10 killed in 'attack' near Dasu hydropower plant
On 14 July, around 10 people, including six Chinese engineers and two Frontier Corps personnel, were killed in an “attack” when the bus they were travelling met an accident near the Dasu hydropower plant in the Upper Kohistan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The cause of the attack is yet to be ascertained. Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian condemning the attack, urged Pakistan to “severely punish” the perpetrators” and “earnestly protect the safety of Chinese nationals, organisations and projects” in the country. (“6 Chinese engineers among 10 killed in 'attack' near Dasu hydropower plant,” Dawn, 14 July 2021)

NCOC to increase the number of flights by 30 per cent to bring back Pakistanis
On 13 July, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) stated that it would increase the number of flights by 30 per cent to bring back on a daily basis around 3000 Pakistanis stranded in different countries. Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar said, “Decision will be implemented from July 15 and around 2,500 to 3,000 persons will be benefited daily. Advisory has been issued to all the airport managements and relevant departments.” (Ikram Junaidi, “NCOC increases number of flights to bring back Pakistanis,” Dawn, 14 July 2021)

Report shows PTI received Rs2.2 billion illegal funding, says Babar
On 13 July, petitioner in the foreign funding case Akbar S. Babar claimed that a report has revealed that the ruling PTI received illegal funding of Rs2.20 billion during the period between 2009 and 2013. He said that this was just the tip of the iceberg as complete details of the accounts opened in the name of four PTI employees as well as the party’s accounts in and outside the country had not been shared. Further, he stated that the prohibited funding received by the party would be manifold high if a thorough probe was carried out. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Report shows PTI received Rs2.2bn illegal funding: Babar,” Dawn, 14 July 2021)

Government to uphold the ban on TLP
On 13 July, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry Fawad Hussain Fawad announced that the government has decided to uphold the ban on the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) under the anti-terrorism law and take the matter to the Supreme Court for its dissolution and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for the cancellation of its election symbol. He added that the interior ministry’s report on examining the TLP's appeal against the ban on the outfit was reviewed and a conclusion was reached that the earlier decision, which was based on facts and merits, was correct. (Rizwan Shehzad, “Breakthrough in talks on electoral reforms hinted,” The Express Tribune, 14 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa: Soldiers killed in an intense exchange of fire with terrorists
On 13 July, an officer and a soldier were killed during an intense exchange of fire with terrorists in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district. According to the ISPR, “The security forces conducted an area sanitisation operation in Zewa, Kurram district on the reported presence of terrorists. Three terrorists were killed during the operation.” Further, three terrorists were also killed during the ‘area sanitisation operation’ in Zewa area of erstwhile FATA. (“Army officer, soldier martyred in Kurram operation,” The Express Tribune, 14 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Remitted record USD 29.4 billion during 2020-21
On 13 July, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released data showing that overseas Pakistanis remitted a record USD 29.4 billion during 2020-21, a 27 per cent year-on-year growth, which was the fastest rate of expansion since FY03. The Bank stated that this was helping the country meet its widening trade deficit and expected current account deficit in the last month of the just-ended fiscal year. (Shahid Iqbal, “Pakistanis send back record $29.4bn in year,” Dawn, 14 July 2021)

PBS says the LSM sector grows 14.57 per cent in 11 months
On 13 July, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported that the large-scale manufacturing sector’s (LSM) output grew 14.57 per cent in the first 11 months (Jul-May) of the fiscal year ended 30 June compared to a negative growth of 10.32 per cent in the same period of last year. This comes as the sectors have maintained growth momentum amid the government’s pro-growth, industrial-friendly and export-oriented policies. (“LSM sector grows 14.57% in 11 months,” The Express Tribune, 14 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
PM Khan proposes actions to respond to the triple crisis unleashed by COVID-19
On 13 July, PM Imran Khan while delivering his keynote address virtually at the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development proposed actions to effectively respond to the triple crisis unleashed by COVID-19. He said, “The global economy will not recover fully until all countries – rich and poor – are enabled to accelerate and expand investment for achieving the SDGs and climate goals. I believe these actions, at the national and international level, are indispensable to respond effectively to the triple crisis,” adding, “The COVID-19 pandemic has once again revealed the essential unity of humanity and the close interdependence of nations. This crisis should crystallize awareness of the immutable importance of the principles and purposes of the UN Charter. We must focus on peaceful and just resolution of disputes and promote international cooperation for building a more equitable, stable and prosperous world.” (“Triple crisis unleashed by Covid-19: Developing nations need $4.3 trillion to tackle crises: PM,” The News International, 14 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan won’t host more Afghan refugees, says FM
On 13 July, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said, “Pakistan is the only country, which, despite its limited resources, is hosting 3 million Afghan refugees for decades, however, it cannot afford to welcome more refugees if the situation in Afghanistan deteriorates again.” Additionally, expressing apprehension he said, “Since, under the guise of Afghan refugees, some anti-Pakistan elements could enter the country,” adding, “Pakistan by sacrificing 70,000 lives and suffering huge economic losses has paid a heavy price in the war against terrorism.” (“Pakistan won’t host more Afghan refugees: FM,” The Express Tribune, 14 July 2021)

An editorial in The News International on the Anti-Torture Bills states that if the government implements the bill it in letter and spirit there will be a marked reduction in such cases. Similarly, an editorial in The Express Tribune states that the bill would bring Pakistan in line with most of the world. Similarly, an editorial in Dawn says that when the legislation against torture and custodial death is on the statute books, it must be implemented strictly without regard to rank or connections.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that Afghan conflict will not end soon and will continue to pose security and economic challenges for Pakistan. It says, by pursuing the right policies and facilitating people-to-people relations, the bonds can be strengthened.

An opinion in Dawn argues that China’s multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative is a manifestation of China’s growing geopolitical ambitions.

An editorial in Dawn on electoral reforms pertains to giving the right to vote to overseas Pakistanis states that the PTI government has fervently pushed for this initiative while the opposition, although it agrees with the principle, wants greater clarity on the issue. Such clarity is essential because there are various aspects of the proposal that need to be thoroughly debated.

An editorial in The Nation on the Monsoon Pains states that Pakistan needs to undertake long term measures to adapt going forward. The poor state of infrastructure in urban centers like Karachi and the complete lack of it in rural areas will need to be addressed urgently if future catastrophes are to be avoided.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

The fallouts of the deteriorating situation amidst the Taliban’s recent offensive, the withdrawal of troops and the stalled negotiations have raised concerns in Pakistan in recent weeks. On 10 July, National Security Adviser Dr Moeed Yusuf and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi gave a detailed briefing to the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, on the Afghan situation, warning that the negative fallout of the civil war in the neighbouring country may result in the Taliban fighters slipping into Pakistan as refugees. NSA Moeed pessimistic about the prospects of peace in Afghanistan said, “the situation is bad and out of Pakistan’s control.” FM Qureshi said Pakistan was seeking a political settlement and pressing for a power-sharing deal to prevent a civil war in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, committee chairperson Senator Sherry Rehman called for inclusive policymaking “particularly when pressures from Afghanistan loom large, including the threat of civil war and escalating violence which could likely result in a spillover into Pakistan.”

The fallouts as a result of the situation in Afghanistan is inevitable. The immediate fallouts would be the refugee influx and the rise of militancy across the border. First, the large influx of refugees. An editorial in Dawn warns that with the conflict already beginning to dislocate people across the borders, Pakistani officials have not yet announced a policy. The Federal Minister for Information stated that the government was keenly monitoring the situation and that the open border with Afghanistan is being fenced and that in case of new refugees, appropriate steps would be initiated to handle them systematically, as the broad consensus is that they should not be meld into the population as was done in the 1980s. However, the editorial notes that time is running out and the government should make a decision without delay and announce it to the world. Further, it states that Pakistan will no be able to bear the load of a large influx of refugees. Additionally, Fahd Husain in Dawn states that the more realistic assessment is that once the refugee influx starts, it would be extremely difficult for Pakistan to block them, arguing that the ‘Iranian model’ of keeping them in camps which the government has planned for will not be easily accomplished.

Second, the rise of terrorists/militants. An opinion in Dawn states that the fallout of the conflict is evident inside the borders with the rise of militant activities in parts of former Fata, arguing that the increasing strength of the Afghan Taliban across the border presents a serious threat to Pakistan’s stability. The resurgence of militancy and terrorism inside Pakistan was highlighted by NSA Moeed who acknowledged the danger from the banned TTP and other groups infiltration into Pakistan. An editorial in Dawn argues that although the Taliban has promised that Afghanistan would not be used for terrorism against Pakistan, it is vital that Pakistani authorities enhance their counterterrorism and law-enforcement capabilities to tackle this renewed threat that is building up across the border.

Third, economic hindrance. An opinion in The News International argues that fallouts of the conflict would most importantly affect the trade at the borders. Thus, with the crossing at the border compromised, the livelihoods of people and the economy would be affected.
In recent weeks, Pakistan’s Afghan problem has been highly debated in the country. With the situation being complex, the government and the opposition need to engage in a serious dialogue a coherent strategy and a clear policy to deal with the inevitable situation to ensure that it is addressed with minimum troubles.

SC disposes of petition against detention of TLP chief
On 12 July, the Supreme Court disposed of a petition challenging the Tehreek-i-Labbaik (TLP) chief’s detention. The judge asked the counsel appearing for Hafiz Saad Rizvi to withdraw the petition, observing it to be “infructuous.” The bench later disposed of the petition as withdrawn. (“Plea against Saad Rizvi’s detention disposed of,” Dawn, 13 July 2021) Meanwhile, on the same day, the Interior Minister said the TLP’s fate would be decided on 13 July (today) based on the TLP’s plea and a report submitted to the cabinet. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Cabinet to decide fate of TLP today: Rashid,” Dawn, 13 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Punjab: PM meets with CM virtually, calls for dedicated spending to development schemes
On 12 July, Imran Khan called on the Punjab government to ensure maximum spending on development schemes. In a virtual meeting with the Punjab Chief Minister, Imran Khan also said universal health care should be enjoyed by all. The CM said that the province expects to see at least a  Rs 530 billion spending of the Rs 560 billion development budget. Further, Imran Khan  also spoke about restoration of places of worship and tree plantation. (Mansoor Malik, “PM asks Punjab to ensure maximum spending on uplift schemes,” Dawn, 13 July 2021)

ON INDIA
Editorial says Indian government should take responsibility for “online auction” of Muslim women
An editorial in Dawn, referring to the “ fake online ‘auction’” in India, says most of the victims were targeted for being Muslim. Outlining that women are generally subjected to online abuse, in this case, the editorial calls it a merging of misogyny and Islamophobia. It also says derogatory remarks on Muslim women had also comes from India’s cabinet members and other ministers, and says, “When such behaviour emanates from the top, naturally the ideological foot soldiers of the Sangh will take it as their cue to declare open season on India’s Muslims.” Therefore, it says the Indian government should take responsibility for the same “if it still claims to adhere to secularism.” (“Muslim women’s ‘sale’,” Dawn, 13 July 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that although the government has an Integrated Energy Plan to reform the power and energy sector, it will not bear fruit unless the hurdle of circular debt is tackled head on, and deals with IPPs are renegotiated, along with buyouts of their remaining tenures, and replaced by power plants using cheaper alternative sources of energy such as wind and solar power, only this could bring down the cost of electricity.

An editorial in Dawn critical of political rivals hurling accusations in POK election campaigns states that this is a critical time for the Kashmir issue and the Pakistani leadership needs to be cognisant of the fact that confusion, obfuscation and unsubstantiated allegations can have an adverse impact on how the international community perceives our approach to the dispute.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the government’s half-hearted attempts to decentralise governance states that local governments have always been an aberration in Pakistan. It says, PM Imran Khan, who often spoke in support of decentralising powers while in opposition, has been unable to promote governance through local representatives.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on the reports of India flying weapons to Afghanistan under the guise of evacuation flights for diplomatic staff in the country, states that this leads to the concern that the weapons could be destined for anti-Pakistan terrorists based in Afghanistan.

An opinion in Dawn on Pakistan’s population growth rate states that the government and the people must collectively work to achieve a balance between resources and population so that the basic rights of citizens to good health, proper nutrition, education, and shelter can be achieved, thereby assisting in move up along the development trajectory.

In Focus

By Apoorva Sudhakar 

On 10 July, The News International reported that a Russian delegation would arrive on 12 July (today) for a four-day visit regarding the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (PSGP or the North South Gas Pipeline). The visit comes after Islamabad and Moscow, on 28 May, signed an amended Inter Governmental Agreement (IGA) which calls for signing a shareholder agreement and other commercial accords within 60 days; under the amended IGA, Pakistan is expected to have 74 per cent shares and Russia, 26 per cent, contrary to the earlier IGA wherein Russia was to finance the project completely. The PSGP is a 1,100 kilometre long pipeline which will run from Karachi’s LNG terminals to Lahore; it has a capacity of 12.4 billion cubic metre per annum. 

However, sources say the talks are likely to fail as Pakistan’s Petroleum Division has been finalising alternate deals; therefore, the PSGP “is in doldrums.” Under the alternate plan, the Petroleum Division looks at constructing a LNG-III pipeline, from Karachi to Lahore, under the Sui Southern, Sui Northern and PAPCO – the company of PARCO. Further, the SAPM on Power is in favour of Sui Southern and Sui Northern building the LNG-III pipeline, reasoning that Pakistan should not depend on external assistance. The SAPM said the Pakistan government will not let Russia handle the operations and maintenance of the PSGP and will also not “provide any sovereign guarantee for profit on any foreign investment in Pakistan in all sectors.” To add to this, the Cabinet Committee on Energy, in June, directed the Ministry of Energy to determine whether it would be possible for the Sui companies to carry out the project. 

The first IGA for the PSGP was signed in October 2015, with an expected investment of Rs two billion from Russia and a 42-month construction period. The project had three phases, beginning 2017 and running into 2020. However, “timelines to finalise the contractual agreements with Russia on a ‘strategic government-to-government’ basis have changed six times between 2015 and 2020.” The current problems also include finalising major elements of the shareholders agreement (SHA) by 27 July. News reports suggest that the 12 July meeting will also decide the diameter of the pipeline; Sui companies can handle 42-inch diameter pipelines. However, Russia will be the only option, if the two countries opt for a 56-inch diameter pipeline. 

The above developments come in light of improving Pakistan-Russia relations. Therefore, developments against the PSGP could offset the same, wherein some experts reportedly termed the Petroleum division’s move tantamount to sabotage of the PSGP.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Government has failed on all fronts, says Fazlur
On 11 July, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated that the government has failed on all fronts and the day is not far when it will be dislodged. He said, “The joint struggle of political parties from the platform of Pakistan Democratic Alliance to dislodge this government has been gaining momentum with every passing day.” He added, “Our peaceful struggle will achieve success very soon,” adding, “We are going to hold history’s biggest public meeting in Karachi on the eve of Independence Day and at that meeting, we will reveal our strategy to oust the government among the sea of the people.” (“Govt has failed on all fronts, says JUI chief,” Dawn, 12 July 2021)

PM orders curtailment of cabinet members’ protocol to avoid public inconvenience
On 11 July, PM Imran Khan ordered curtailing of extraordinary protocol accorded to federal cabinet members and VIPs to avoid public inconvenience. According to Dawn’s sources, PM Khan had directed that the security staff of ministers and other VIPs should be reduced to two officials. Previously, via Twitter, he said that he would review the protocol and security available to ministers, governors and chief ministers belonging to the ruling PTI and “decide how we can minimise expenditure and end public inconvenience,” adding, “We will put an end to the colonial legacy of pomp and glory used to overwhelm people.” (“PM orders curtailment of cabinet members’ protocol,” Dawn, 12 July 2021)

Will leave a clean and green Pakistan for future generations, says PM
On 11 July, PM Imran Khan stated that the PTI government will “‘In Sha Allah’ leave a clean and green Pakistan for future generations.” In a Tweet, he said, “Matta in Swat - Barren hills turning green. Incredible results from our Billion Tree Tsunami campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In Sha Allah, we will leave a clean and green Pakistan for future generations.” (“Govt to leave clean, green Pakistan: PM,” The News International, 12 July 2021)

PROVINCES

On 11 July, BNP-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal said, “The problems of Balochistan should be solved but some people, most of them belonging to the government, do not want that,” adding, “some people are being ‘raised in pots’ to become leaders of Balochistan and they will never want the problems of Balochistan to be solved.” Further, he said that even the most complex issue could be resolved through dialogue but “some forces do not want that,” however, “real forces” do not want a solution to the problem of Balochistan,” adding, “I am serious about the talks but on the other side there are people who are against negotiations.” (“Some forces don’t want talks, says Mengal,” Dawn, 12 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Exports register the highest-ever increase of 18 per cent in the fiscal year 2020-21
On 12 July, The Express Tribune reported that the PM’s advisor on Commerce and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood said that Pakistan’s exports had registered the highest-ever increase of 18 per cent in the fiscal year 2020-21 despite the adverse conditions created by the Covid-19 pandemic. He said, “major economies of the world shrank mainly due to the deadliest Covid waves, but it was Pakistan that performed quite well by increasing exports whereas the regional competing economies of India and Bangladesh remained in the negative zone,” adding, “all credit goes to our exporters who performed extremely well even in the challenging times of the pandemic.” Additionally, he stated that although Pakistan achieved the highest-ever increase in exports, there were still huge challenges that needed to be resolved once and for all for the sustainability of export growth, as sustainability is the only recipe for economic success by overcoming the challenges. (“Exports surge, but challenges remain,” The Express Tribune, 12 July 2021)

PM approves the new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT)
On 11 July, PM Imran Khan approves the new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) template. By the treaty, any dispute can now be remedied through local arbitration. Currently, Pakistan has signed 32 bilateral investment treaties with different countries, while the Board of Investment (BoI) is likely to sign a memorandum of understanding on investment with Uzbekistan. (“Imran okays new bilateral investment treaty template,” Dawn, 12 July 2021)

ENERGY
Two new terminals required for uninterrupted LNG supply, says report
On 12 July, The Express Tribune reported that according to a report by the petroleum division presented to PM Imran Khan states that two new terminals will have to be built to increase the Liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply. The report states that the pipeline was essential to the smooth and uninterrupted supply of gas to consumers at affordable prices. It adds, the gas pipeline will be constructed as soon as possible in accordance with the directives issued by the premier and will also include local companies in its construction. (“New gas pipeline to be built for uninterrupted LNG supply,” The Express Tribune, 12 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
The government’s silence over credit lines offer frustrates Azeri oil firm
On 12 July, Dawn reported that Azerbaijan State Oil Company (Socar) expressed frustration over the Petroleum Division’s prolonged silence over its offer of providing two credit lines of over USD 220 million for oil and gas supplies to Pakistan. Additionally, Pakistan’s ambassador to Baku cautions against harming bilateral ties over the issue. Previously, Islamabad and Baku had to expand bilateral cooperation through oil and gas sector engagements to build upon a strategically friendly relationship between the two countries. (“Govt’s silence over credit lines offer frustrates Azeri oil firm,” Dawn, 12 July 2021)

Qureshi to address the SCO ministerial council
On 11 July, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi left for Tajikistan to attend Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Foreign Ministers Council. During his visit, he would address the SCO ministerial council and attend the meeting of SCO foreign ministers contact group on Afghanistan. Additionally, he is scheduled to meet with his counterparts from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Russia and China. (“Qureshi leaves for Tajikistan,” The News International, 12 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN 
“New, civilised Afghan Taliban” would prefer talks to guns, says Rashid
On 11 July, Federal Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated that “new, civilised Afghan Taliban” would prefer talks to guns after Afghanistan suffered violence and civil war over the past decades. He said that all stakeholders in Afghanistan should come to the table for a political settlement to ensure that the country did not plunge into yet another civil war, adding, “The dialogue with Taliban will be in the interest of all. We will support peace in neighbouring country Afghanistan.” (“New, civilised Afghan Taliban may prefer talks to guns: Rashid,” Dawn, 12 July 2021)

Maleeha Lodhi in an opinion in Dawn argues that there is still time for collective diplomatic action to avert a chaotic outcome in Afghanistan. She adds, Pakistan should encourage an early meeting of representatives of the extended Troika countries.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the possibility of cross-border attacks states that while the Taliban has stated that they would not allow their territory to be used for terrorism against Pakistan, authorities need to enhance counterterrorism and law-enforcement capabilities to tackle this renewed threat that is building up across the border.

An opinion in Dawn on the issue of gender-based violence states that the focus of the conversation must shift from punishment to prevention.

An editorial in The News International critical of the rise in price of sugar states that, this shows that the Sugar Commission, the court orders, the government’s promises that price would be brought down and the assurance by the prime minister that his team had done the work necessary to manage this, have all come to nothing.

An opinion in The Express Tribune on India-Pakistan ties states that the return of the blame game by both sides is a clear indication that efforts to seek normalisation have met a dead end. But given that both Pakistan and India are facing a two-front situation the two sides will have to keep the channels of communications open.

An opinion in The Express Tribune on Balochistan states that the prevalent enigma of violence and desperation has unfortunately bred trans-tribal Baloch nationalism. Yet, the province doesn’t have a separatist movement at all. Baloch tribesmen are proud Pakistanis and have stood in thick and thin with the State of Pakistan.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PM directs ERRA to accelerate ongoing projects
On 10 July, Prime Minister Imran Khan directed the Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA) to accelerate the ongoing projects to facilitate the public. This direction was issued while chairing a meeting to review the authority's ongoing projects related to reconstruction and development in the calamity-hit areas. (“PM Imran directs ERRA to expedite ongoing projects,” The Express Tribune, 10 July 2021)

Government deliberates options over UK judge’s ruling in Reko Diq case
On 10 July, Dawn reported that the federal government is looking at options on how to deal with a recent London High Court judge’s rejection of Balochistan government’s defence before the International Chambers of Commerce (ICC) tribunal that it lacked jurisdiction to arbitrate a dispute in the Reko Diq mining venture in view of corruption allegations. According to Dawn’s sources, one of the options could be challenging the decision of the London High Court judge before the Court of Appeal in the United Kingdom. (“Govt mulls options over UK judge’s ruling in Reko Diq case,” Dawn, 10 July 2021)

Session court directs FIA not to harass Shehbaz, Hamza
On 10 July, a Lahore sessions court ordered the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) not to harass Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza Shehbaz. This direction came as the PML-N leaders appeared before the court which heard their petition regarding the extension of interim bail in a money laundering case. (“Court directs FIA not to harass Shehbaz, Hamza,” The Express Tribune, 10 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: PM meets with lawmakers; calls for creating atmosphere for talks
On 9 July, Imran Khan met with Balochistan’s lawmakers, including Sarfaraz Bugti and Anwarul Haq Kakar, and asked them to prepare a conducive atmosphere for the federal government to engage with insurgents. A statement of the PM office said that senators apprised the PM about the political situation in Balochistan. Dawn reports that the government is likely to form a committee of legislators and government officials for the same. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Steps under consideration to engage Baloch tribals,” Dawn, 10 July 2021)

ENERGY
Circular debt of gas sector surpasses Rs 532 billion 
On 10 July, Dawn reported that following the Sui companies’ failure to pay their suppliers, the gas sector’s circular stood at Rs 532 billion at the end of March. This figure is a 5.5 per cent increase from June 2020. Dawn explains that Unpaid government subsidies hindered the cash flows of Sui Northern Gas Pipelines (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC); the poor cash flow led to their inability to pay the suppliers. (Kazim Alam, “Gas sector circular debt crosses Rs532bn,” Dawn, 10 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan lauds Iran’s initiative to host talks between Afghan sides
On 9 July, the Foreign Office spokesperson said, “Pakistan welcomes Iran’s engagement with Afghan parties to achieve a negotiated political settlement.” He added that Islamabad viewed Tehran’s role in the Afghan peace with importance as it also hosts Afghan refugees. The statement came after Iran hosted talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government on 8 July. (“Pakistan hails Iran’s efforts for Afghan peace,” The Express Tribune, 10 July 2021)

We hope Pakistan will help disrupt the Taliban campaign, says Afghan Foreign Minister
On 10 July, The News International reported on the Afghan Minister of Foreign Affairs interview on Geo News wherein he said, “We are hopeful Pakistan will help Afghanistan disrupt the Taliban’s supply and brutal campaign.” Further, the Taliban, along with, other groups like the TTP, LeT, JeM, threaten not only Afghanistan, but the entire region. Meanwhile, on 9 July, Pakistan’s Foreign Affairs Committee of the Senate was briefed by the Foreign Minister Qureshi and NSA Moeed Yusuf. Qureshi cautioned against the chances of a civil war in Afghanistan and the NSA said, “If there is no peace in Afghanistan, there wouldn't be peace in Pakistan either.” (Asim Yasin, “Kabul seeks Pak help to bring Taliban back to table,” The News International, 10 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Bilawal criticises PTI, PML-N for taking "U-turns" on Kashmir issue
On 9 July, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari criticised of the ruling PTI and the PML-N over what he called taking "U-turns" on Kashmir issue. While addressing rallies in the run-up to the 25 July general elections on POK he said, "Our Jiyalas [PPP workers] will make them (PML-N and PTI) run away from Kashmir... we're not like them... we do not take U-turns like these two parties," He added, "Imran Khan takes U-turn on Kashmir. First, he says that until the August 5 move is reversed, we will not talk [with India] but later, he says trade with India is necessary," adding, "The PML-N has two narratives. We ask them, 'are you following the narrative of bare miyan sab (Nawaz Sharif) or chote miyan sb (Shehbaz Sharif)' but we don't get a clear answer. Do you want to give your vote to such a confused party?" (“Bilawal fires salvo at PML-N, PTI for ‘Kashmir U-turn’,” The Express Tribune, 10 July 2021)

An editorial in Dawn argues that the time is right for regional states to push the Afghan factions towards peace. Pakistan, Iran and the Central Asian states as well as Turkey and the Gulf Arabs should lead this effort, while Russia and China can also be kept in the loop, in efforts to come up with a regional solution to the Afghan question succeed in the days to come.

An opinion in The News International states that in Pakistan, extreme events and disasters catch sound-bites. The need of the hour is that the government, the judiciary, the media, the education sector, health sector, agriculture sector, and industrial sector need to make environmental protection a priority and work on it on a day to day basis by institutionalizing citizens’ right to life on a continuous basis.

An editorial in The News International argues that the NAB can only be effective if it is seen as non-partisan and scrupulous. For that, a policy transformation at the top echelons of power is needed so as to create a civilised, fair and transparent accountability watchdog. The process of accountability should not only play no favourites, it must also be as public as possible.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Government files appeal over refusal by SC office to admit review petition in Isa case
On 8 July, the federal government lodged an appeal before the Supreme Court against a refusal by the registrar’s office to entertain an unheard-of legal remedy in the Justice Qazi Faez Isa case. Previously, the registrar’s office had returned a set of nine curative review petitions because it contained “scandalous language,” additionally, it observed that a second review petition cannot be filed against a decision already given on a review petition. (“Govt appeals refusal by SC office to admit review petition in Isa case,” Dawn, 9 July 2021)

NAB moves SC against IHC decision on bail of three PML-N leaders
On 8 July, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has challenged the Supreme Court the decisions of the Islamabad High Court regarding the bails of PML-N leaders Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Ahsan Iqbal and Miftah Ismail. The petition argues that the IHC ignored the facts in the cases. (“NAB moves SC against IHC decision,” The Express Tribune, 9 July 2021)

IHC suspends decision to set aside appointment of NBP president and BoD chairman
On 9 July, The Express Tribune reported that a division bench of the Islamabad High Court had suspended a single-bench decision to withhold the appointment of the National Bank of Pakistan’s (NBP) President and Board of Directors (BoD) Chairman. The decision came after the Ministry of Finance and the NBP filed appeals against the Court’s decision, on 30 June, to reserve the verdict to set aside their appointments, which the petitioner held was unconstitutional. Appearing for the Ministry, the Attorney General said the appointments were made as per the law and that, “No advertisement was required to fill the post of the NBP president.” (“IHC restores NBP president, BoD chairman,” The Express Tribune, 9 July 2021)

Will not impose complete lockdowns, says Planning Minister
On 8 July, the Planning Minister expressed concerns that the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic was set to begin in July; however, he said the government would not impose a complete lockdown. He said the government would resort to smart lockdowns in case the rate of positive cases rises. (“No complete lockdown during fourth corona wave: Asad,” The News International, 9 July 2021)

ECONOMY
SBP governor says talks with IMF going smoothly 
On 8 July, the State Bank of Pakistan Governor Reza Baqir stated that negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the 6th review of its USD six billion financial packages were going smoothly. He said, “We [the IMF and Pakistan] share the same goals. We too want to expand our tax net and improve our tax-to-GDP ratio,” adding, “We share the same objectives in other sectors too, such as energy and circular debt. The talks are about how to attain these goals.” (“Talks with IMF going smoothly: SBP chief,” Dawn, 9 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Chinese Ambassador, Foreign Minister reaffirm support to Pakistan despite global changes
On 8 July, the Chinese Ambassador announced that the CPEC’s Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) will meet later in July. He was addressing an event, “Pakistan-China At 70: Vision for the Future,” conducted by the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI). He said the CPEC had expanded beyond “infrastructure, energy, and development to agriculture, industry, IT, science and technology.” The Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the session virtually and said that China would firmly stand with Pakistan, regardless of the changes at the global level. (Asim Yasin, “Pak-China 70-year ties commemorated: ‘China to stand by its friend in new Pakistan vision’,” The News International, 9 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Peace in Afghanistan is still winnable, says ambassador 
On 9 July, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s Ambassador Asad Majeed Khan assured the United States that peace in Afghanistan is still winnable. This comes as the US urges Pakistan to be a “constructive partner” in bringing stability to Afghanistan. Additionally, he urged the US and China to work together to promote peace and stability in South Asia. (“Peace in Afghanistan still winnable, Pakistan assures US” Dawn, 9 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Bilawal, Maryam lash out at PM during election rallies
On 9 July, The News International reported on Bilawal Bhutto’s election campaign rally in Haveli. Bilawal took on Imran Khan and said that the PM was not doing enough for Kashmir. He said, “What can I do? “If Quaid-i-Awam were there today, he would have gone to the United States with the Kashmir case while the response of the puppet was to rename the Kashmir Highway as Srinagar Highway and change his own map with his own pen.” He added, “We do not want a prime minister who prays for Modi's success in elections nor a prime minister who invites Modi to wedding celebrations. He said that the PPP is the only party which cannot compromise on Kashmir as it was founded on the issue of Kashmir.” Similarly, Maryam Nawaz said the PM “surrendered Kashmir to India” and claimed that Nawaz Sharif will fight for the Kashmiris. (Asim Yasin and Syed Abbas Garzedi, “Bilawal, Maryam attack Imran in Kashmir rallies,” The News International, 9 July 2021) 

An editorial in Dawn argues that the time is right for regional states to push the Afghan factions towards peace. Pakistan, Iran and the Central Asian states as well as Turkey and the Gulf Arabs should lead this effort, while Russia and China can also be kept in the loop, in efforts to come up with a regional solution to the Afghan question succeed in the days to come.

An opinion in The News International states that in Pakistan, extreme events and disasters catch sound-bites. The need of the hour is that the government, the judiciary, the media, the education sector, health sector, agriculture sector, and industrial sector need to make environmental protection a priority and work on it on a day to day basis by institutionalizing citizens’ right to life on a continuous basis.

An editorial in The News International argues that the NAB can only be effective if it is seen as non-partisan and scrupulous. For that, a policy transformation at the top echelons of power is needed so as to create a civilised, fair and transparent accountability watchdog. The process of accountability should not only play no favourites, it must also be as public as possible.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 7 July, police arrested four people in connection with the sexual harassment of a couple in Islamabad after a video of the incident went viral on social media. According to Dawn, the police report cited that "five to six men… keeping the victims in custody under gunpoint. The accused also stripped the man and the woman naked while threatening them." The incident highlights yet again the high level of gender-based violence in Pakistan and has prompted widespread condemnation, with activists demanding strict punishment for the accused.

The incident comes weeks after Prime Minister Imran Khan faced criticism for his comments which appeared to blame a women's clothing for sexual abuse. He said, "If a woman is wearing very few clothes, it will have an impact on the men, unless they are robots," adding that this was "common sense." Critics argued that PM Khan’s comment shows how far away from society is in terms of the understanding of gender-based violence in the country. Similarly, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said, "This is the second time that the Prime Minister has reduced sexual violence to an act of ‘temptation.’ This is dangerously simplistic and only reinforces the common public perception that women are ‘knowing’ victims and men ‘helpless’ aggressors. For the head of government—a government that claims to defend the rights of women and vulnerable groups—to insist on this view is simply inexcusable." An editorial in Dawn critical of the remarks said this "exposed not only his lack of understanding of a terrible crime but also his misdirected notions of history, culture and the dynamics of social change. Such hidebound ideas cannot be expected to take this country forward. "

Gender-based violence, particularly against women in Pakistan is deeply rooted in the patriarchal, misogynistic and conservative character of society. According to White Ribbon, an organisation which focuses on Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) “one out of every five women in Pakistan faces domestic violence and the ratio has increased alarmingly by 20pc in recent years,” adding that incidents including domestic violence, murder, rape, child abuse, child marriages, honour killing, harassment and other anti-women cultural practices, were on the rise. Similarly, a report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan on ‘State of Human Rights in Pakistan 2020’ drew a concerning picture regarding gender disparity and crimes against women. It stated there were 430 cases of honour killing in the country in 2020, in which 363 women and 148 men lost their lives. It also pointed out that in the Global Gender Gap Index of the World Economic Forum, Pakistan occupies the 151 position out of 153 countries.

Although women in urban and rural Pakistan face the threat of violence in different ways, the plight of women across the country is weaved together with the common thread of victim-blaming, discrimination, lack of legal and societal protections. In conclusion, an opinion in The Express Tribune highlights the gravity of the problem by arguing, "Violence is a strange beast. If not stopped, it grows organically and exponentially. It thrives not just on the lives of its victims, but also the collective weakness of its bystanders. By choosing to stay silent, ignoring, or choosing a path of convenience, we are ensuring that it becomes a permanent pillar of our society." Thus, addressing the issue must stem from understanding the root of the problem, which is changing the patriarchal, misogynistic and conservative character of society.

In Brief
INTERNAL
NADRA chairman reveals 10 per cent gender gap in voters in 80 districts
On 7 July, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) chairman said that more than a 10 per cent gender gap in voters exists in nearly 80 districts. He said this at the inauguration of the fourth phase of a drive for women’s national identity card and voter registration. Of the various measures taken to address the gender gap, one of them is free registration for first time voters, establishment of mobile registration vehicles to reach remote areas, and operating female-only NADRA centres, especially in KP. He said, “Today we embark upon this campaign with extra zeal and motivation to not only register women, but to empower them for their more constructive role in our national policy making.” (Iftikhar A Khan, “More than 10pc gender gap among voters in 80 districts,” Dawn, 8 July 2021)

Opinion highlights importance of addressing link between population growth and food security
An opinion In Dawn questions why the Pakistan leadership of the past 20 years did not recognise the link between the rapid population growth and the “present crises (excepting governance),” referring to per capita availability of food and water. Giving the example of China’s method of solving problems like famine through a one-child policy, the author says Pakistan can opt for a similar, if not same, way through voluntary and rights-based interventions. She says that leaders of the present should always plan for the future as well and says Pakistan should not just be preoccupied with external and regional threats, but should also prioritise internal threats; otherwise Pakistan is not “only overlooking the basic needs and rights of a growing segment of the population but also fostering alienation and making way for implosion.” Lastly, she opines, “Only the government has the moral authority to lead and enable these stakeholders to fulfil their responsibility.” (Zeba Sathar, “From food surplus to famine?,” Dawn, 8 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: President appoints new Governor; PM appoints Shahzain Bugti as SAPM
On 7 July, President Alvi appointed Zahoor Ahmed Agha as the new Governor of Balochistan in light of the resignation of former Governor Amanullah Khan Yasinzai. The News International reported that Yasinzai resigned in line with the Prime Minister’s advice because of the political challenges in the province. (“Alvi appoints Zahoor Agha as Balochistan Governor,” The News International, 8 July 2021) On the same day, Imran Khan appointed Nawabzada Shahzain Bugti of the Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP) as his SAPM on Reconciliation and Harmony in Balochistan. The above developments have been seen as the foundation for talks with insurgents. (“Govt lays groundwork for talks with angry Baloch,” The Express Tribune, 8 July 2021)

Balochistan: Opinion welcomes offer for talks with insurgents
An opinion in The News International traces the various insurgencies in Balochistan right from the 1950s, through ZA Bhutto’s government and General Zia’s dictatorship and “General Musharraf’s provocative actions.” The author says, given the above history, Imran Khan’s offer to talk should be welcome. He outlines the province’s problems, including lack of medical facilities and not deriving benefits from various mega development projects in the province. Citing the Interior Minister’s reference to external hostile elements, the author says, it is althemore necessary to engage with the insurgents and address the grievances. Therefore, he says, “The problems of the federating entities were caused by a centrist approach...What the PTI government needs to ensure is a level playing field for these parties,” including the participation of national political parties. (Abdul Sattar, “Tackling Balochistan’s problems,” The News International, 8 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
COAS meets Deputy PM, Armed Forces chief of Qatar
On 7 July, COAS General Bajwa met with the Deputy Prime Minister, who is also the Minister of State for Defence Affairs of Qatar, on a two-day visit to the country; the ISPR said Qatar’s Chief of Staff Qatar Armed Forces was present at the meeting. In the meeting, the dignitaries discussed “matters of mutual interest, defence and security cooperation, and regional and geo-political environment.” Further, the COAS reportedly emphasised on the “great history of cordial relations and a deep spirit of brotherhood” between the two countries, and both sides called for enhancing their cooperation. (“COAS Gen Bajwa meets Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister Dr Khalid Al-Attiyah,” The News International, 8 July 2021)

FO says OIC Secretary General highlighted organisation’s position on J&K to India
On 7 July, the Foreign Office spokesperson said the Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) had recently met with the Indian ambassador to Saudi Arabia and stressed the forum’s position on Jammu and Kashmir. The FO spokesperson said the OIC had previously directed the Secretary General to send a fact-finding mission to “IIOJK.” The findings of the same are to be presented to the next Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM). He further said, “This is the first time that the principled position of the 57 OIC-member states has been duly conveyed to India. India should review its policies in IIOJK and fully implement UNSC and OIC Resolutions on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.” (“OIC SG underscores principal stance on J&K dispute: FO,” The Express Tribune, 8 June 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Islamabad changes Afghan trade transit mechanism
On 7 July, Pakistan's Special Representative for Afghanistan said that Islamabad had changed the bonded carrier regulations for the Afghan transit trade. He tweeted, “Pakistan have changed the bonded carrier regime system for Afghan transit trade to meet traders' demand. Under new regulations even owner of 1 truck can now transport bonded cargo.This ends the rent seeking & monopoly of a few & substantially reduces the transportation cost.” The move came after traders had called on the governments of both countries to initiate measures to enhance bilateral and transit trade, citing that strict regulations were hindering the same. (“Pakistan amends Afghan transit trade mechanism to cut transportation cost,” The Express Tribune, 8 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Imran to run election campaign; Bilawal says PPP will not “compromise on Kashmir”
On 7 July, the Information Minister said that Imran Khan would run the election campaign in “AJK,” adding, “This is the right of the prime minister to go there (AJK). He will be going there not in his capacity as the prime minister, but as the chairman of the PTI.” (Amir Wasim, “Imran to lead PTI’s election campaign in AJK: Fawad,” Dawn, 8 July 2021) Meanwhile, on the same day, Bilawal Bhutto addressed a rally in Abbaspur; he said, “When we say the sell-out of Kashmir is unacceptable, it also means whatever is happening in occupied Kashmir is unbearable to us.” He further said that Imran Khan’s reaction to India’s decision on 5 August 2019 was disappointing and claimed that the PPP would not “compromise on Kashmir.” (Tariq Naqash, “Bilawal criticises PML-N for ‘giving space’ to PTI,” Dawn, 8 July 2021)

An editorial in The Nation critical of rape culture states that the recent video in connection to the incident of harassment and sexual assault of a couple states that this is a serious indictment of the deep-seated problems in the country’s justice system and cultural ideas regarding rape and sexual assault. Similarly, an editorial in The News International states efforts to bring misogyny to an end and at the very least pressurise the leaders of political parties to ensure language offensive to women is not used by their members either on social media or on public talks at any point must be ensured. Meanwhile, an editorial in Dawn on the legislation against domestic violence says that it seems for many in the PTI government, the protection of women is subservient to pandering to these regressive elements.

An opinion in the News International on ‘Leaving Bagram’ states that it seems like the US armed forces could not wait to leave. An opinion in The Express Tribune on the situation and Pakistan predicament states that Islamabad frets over the estimated 6,500 TTP fighters, joining hands with the Afghan Taliban, which would eventually embolden other violent extremist groups in Pakistan.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on PM Imran Khan’s security protocol announcement states that the public would be better served if the time and energy invested in optics were spent on better policymaking and implementation to improve quality of life.

In Focus
By Aproova Sudhakar

On 4 July, Geo News reported that experts had raised alarm over a possible famine-like situation due to water scarcity; this has been attributed to low rainfall and drying up of rivers. Sources say that groundwater level has dangerously fallen and illustrates the example of Punjab where a person now “has to go to a depth of 600 feet to draw groundwater” against the 50 feet depth in the past. The said experts also urged the authorities concerned to initiate adequate measures to address the problem which has been fuelled by increasing population, water loss and climate change. 

Meanwhile, Punjab and Sindh have been making headlines; in May, Indus River System Authority (IRSA) said that water shortages in the two provinces had gone up to 32 per cent. Previously, IRSA had estimated that Punjab and Sindh would face a 10 per cent water shortage but as temperatures did not rise, and glaciers did not melt, the percentage of shortage was revised. This meant that kharif crops, which include some of Pakistan’s main cash crops and raw materials for export, like cotton, were at risk. Further, an editorial explains that consistent droughts have led to food insecurity wherein, “Twenty percent of people are malnourished, nearly 30 percent of children suffer stunting.”

In 2019, in a report by the International Monetary Fund, Pakistan was ranked third among the countries facing water scarcity and was also included in the top 10 countries with lowest access to clean water. The report also outlined that climate change was causing “droughts and heat waves across the globe, as well as floods and sea level rises.” 

Prior to this, in 2018, The News International cited a news report by Deutsche Welle, which said  Pakistan would “run dry” by 2025. These apprehensions were echoed by the UNDP and Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR). The UN humanitarian coordinator was quoted saying, “No person in Pakistan, whether from the north with its more than 5,000 glaciers, or from the south with its 'hyper deserts,' will be immune to this scarcity.” However, there is another argument which holds that the country has enough water supply and the problem lies with its conservation and management; this includes pollution of freshwater and groundwater sources, industrial waste management, and poor sanitation systems in urban spaces. 

The above are concerning as Pakistan is a water-intensive country with its per capita water annual water availability (1,017 cubic metres ) is beyond the 1,000 cubic metres threshold. To add to the problem, provinces are engaged in water politics. For example, Sindh accused the IRSA of “stealing” the province’s share and also deliberately releasing water to Punjab. Similarly, the IRSA Chairman accused Sindh of causing a water shortage in Balochistan saying the former was providing 58 per cent reduced water to the latter.  

The failure to address all the above issues stems from the lack of a compelling narrative on the water crisis. An opinion explains that the public debate around malnourishment is yet to establish a link with water scarcity. Similarly, the author says the link between export-oriented economy and water scarcity is yet to be framed. Therefore, Pakistan requires to redefined debate around water scarcity which portrays water as a political priority.

In Brief
INTERNAL
NCOC confirms the presence of different variants in the country
On 6 July, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) confirmed the presence of different variants of coronavirus, including the delta (Indian), beta (South African) and alpha (UK) variants, in Pakistan and detection of their cases in May and June. According to the NCOC, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has been monitoring the presence of different variants of coronavirus in the country. (“NCOC confirms presence of different variants in Pakistan,” Dawn, 7 July 2021)

Maryam rejects alleged deal with government
On 6 July, Maryam Nawaz denied a statement over the PML-N entering a deal with the PTI government and insisted the entire party led by Shehbaz Sharif was represented in the recent Swat rally. She said, “Why do you people call everything a deal. This is an inappropriate question. Why will there be any deal? [...] Are we mad to have a deal with those we are [fighting] against?” Further, she said, the PTI would not be able to come to power again. (“Maryam denies deal with govt, insists PML-N is intact,” Dawn, 7 July 2021)

PPP says that the situation in Afghanistan could badly affect Pakistan
On 6 July, Senator Sherry Rehman warned that the situation in Afghanistan could badly affect Pakistan. She said that Pakistan had the highest stakes in Afghan peace, but the geopolitics of escalating violence has indicated that peace might be much further than imagined. Further, she said given the situation, “In times of crisis, leadership is crucial to policy formation as well as its smart articulation,” adding, “Clarity and consensus are needed for any foreign policy to be successful, especially if policy agendas are focused on protecting a country’s interests and people, which involves managing competing interests and ideas.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Situation in Afghanistan to hit Pakistan, warns PPP,” Dawn, 7 July 2021)

350,000 EVMs to be made in six months, says Shibli
On 6 July, Federal Minister for Science and Technology Shibli Faraz stated that between 350,000 and 400,000 electronic voting machines (EVMs) were required to make elections fair and transparent, adding that the same would be manufactured in six months. He said, “Using indigenous technologies, the EVMs are being developed at half the cost of imported devices by the National University for Science and Technology, COMSATS and National Institute of Engineering.” (Jamal Shahid, “350,000 EVMs to be made in six months: minister,” Dawn, 7 July 2021)

Workplace harassment law another piece of cosmetic legislation, says SC
On 7 July, the Supreme Court stated that the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010 (PAHWWA) is just another piece of cosmetic legislation that is blinkered in its application. Justice Mushir Alam said, “When the PAHWWA is examined as a whole, it does not live up to expectation as titled and preamble of the act suggests.” Further, he observed that anyone could be subject to sexual harassment though in culture and society like Pakistan women were the distressing majority of victims. (Nasir Iqbal, “Workplace harassment law limited in scope: SC,” Dawn, 7 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: COAS says the province is in sharp focus of national leadership
On 6 July, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa said that Balochistan is in sharp focus of national leadership and the army is fully engaged in enabling national and provincial response in synergy with other institutions of the state. He said that Balochistan’s peace and prosperity is the bedrock of Pakistan’s progress, adding, "It is time to reap dividends of hard-earned peace and expedite socio-economic development adopting people-centric approach for attaining enduring stability." (“Balochistan in sharp focus of national leadership: COAS,” The Express Tribune, 7 July 2021)

Balochistan: Government must go beyond the cosmetic and broaden the people’s participation, says editorial
An editorial in The News International states that the state’s exclusionary approach over the years and its centralised approach has not been helpful. It says, the government now needs to go beyond the cosmetic and broaden the people’s participation in all new projects in Balochistan. Similarly, an editorial in Dawn states that any serious attempt at reaching out to the insurgents in Balochistan needs to have the consensus of the civilian government as well as the security establishment, and it must be based on a willingness to make concessions. It adds that the government must loosen its control over Balochistan’s resources, profits which in turn should be put back into the province to an extent and in a manner that meets the requirements of justice. Additionally, given the trust deficit, it would make sense to involve nationalist leaders in the process as well. (“Talking to insurgents,” Dawn, 7 July 2021) (“A push for peace,” The News International, 7 July 2021) Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting stated that talks would be held with those angry Baloch who was not directly linked to India, while the conditions for those linked to India or involved in terrorism would be different. He added, “Peace in the province is important to the government because Balochistan is central to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).” (“Working on holding talks with angry Baloch: Fawad,” The Express Tribune, 7 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Government launches USD one billion Eurobond
On 6 July, Pakistan floated different tenors Eurobonds worth USD ONE billion at up to 8.5 per cent interest rates. According to Express Tribune’s sources, “The government floats five-, 10- and 30-year bonds at an interest rate that range between 5.875% to 8.45%.” The move is said to be aimed at building the country’s foreign exchange reserves. Additionally, it was the second capital market transaction carried out by Pakistan in the last three months. (“Govt floats $1b Eurobonds at 8.5% interest rate,” The Express Tribune, 7 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
CPEC goes beyond partisan politics, says Bilawal
On 6 July, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari while addressing the "CPC and World Political Parties Summit" marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC) said, “Today the CPC has become the world’s biggest political party with more than 90 million members.” He went on to speak about the CPEC saying, “The CPEC goes beyond partisan politics for us and we are all united around one fundamental truth in a world defined by unexpected conflicts and challenges,” adding, “The future really does lie in peace and cooperation. As of today, it is China leading the way for global cooperation instead of global conflict. This is the only way for my generation to be part of a future with perpetual peace and break with the past habits of perpetual conflict.” (“CPEC is beyond partisan politics: opposition leaders,” Dawn, 7 July 2021) Meanwhile, PM Imran Khan during the same event said, "Under President Xi’s stewardship, China has achieved major success in the ‘people’s war’ against the Covid-19 pandemic." Further, he reiterated Pakistan’s support to Chinese leadership's efforts to safeguard world peace, shared progress and prosperity through the Belt and Road Initiative. (“PM Imran reiterates support to Chinese leadership to safeguard world peace, progress,” The Express Tribune, 7 July 2021)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
German envoy to help mitigate climate change in GB
On 6 July, German Ambassador Bernhard Schlagheck stated that cooperation will be extended for mitigating climate change impact in Gilgit-Baltistan. During a meeting with Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid Khan spoke about the vulnerability to climate change to the region, and sought international financial institutions’ help to mitigate the impact of the phenomenon. Additionally, the envoy said that his government would help improve health, education and power sectors in the region as well. (“Germany to help mitigate climate change impact in GB,” Dawn, 7 July 2021)

An opinion in Dawn states that the intelligence briefing on Afghanistan to the lawmakers may have covered all these issues, however, it is now the responsibility of the civilian leadership to put together a coherent strategy and a clear policy to deal with the situation. It’s not enough to say that Pakistan will not take sides in the Afghan conflict.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 5 July, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid disclosed that the report of a committee formed to hear an appeal of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) will be placed before the cabinet at its next meeting for a final word. He added that the counsel for the TLP gave arguments before the panel, would also submit its recommendations for consideration by the cabinet.

Previously, on 15 April, the federal government banned the TLP under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, after violent protests broke out following the arrest of TLP leader Saad Hussain Rizvi in Lahore. According to the notification, the federal government stated that it "has reasonable grounds to believe that Tehreek Labbaik Pakistan is engaged in terrorism, acted in a manner prejudicial to the peace and security of the country, involved in creating anarchy in the country by intimidating the public, caused grievous bodily harm, hurt and death to the personnel of Law Enforcement Agencies and innocent by-standers attacked civilians and officials, created wide-scale hurdles, threatened, abused and promoted hatred, vandalised and ransacked public and government properties including vehicles and caused arson, blocked essential health supplies to hospitals, and has used, threatened, coerced, intimidated, and overawed the government [and] the public and created sense of fear and insecurity in the society and the public at large." Adding, "Therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 11B (1) of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, the Federal Government is pleased to list Tehreek Labbaik Pakistan in the First Schedule to the said Act as a proscribed organisation for the purposes of the said Act." Thus, due to the ban, the TLP is no longer a political party and is prohibited from prevented from collecting funds and organizing gatherings or conducting political activities.

The controversy behind the ban
The decision to outlaw the TLP has also stirred up a debate in the country. According to legal experts, the government’s decision to ban a political party can be taken to court, specifically the Supreme Court, however, it is being questioned whether the ban under the terrorism laws will be approved by the court. Additionally, the constitution of a special committee of the House, comprising members from all parties did invite strong protests from the Opposition which raised questions.

Further, media opines criticised the ban over concern that such a decision has the potential to undermine other political parties on the whims of the government. An opinion in Dawn states that a blanket ban on the party is a futile attempt to solve a complex problem, adding that such a measure will not dilute the narrative that fuels the party, it may even fan it. It says a far better option would have been for the government to use its administrative and legal powers to hold the rioters accountable and make them face the law. Meanwhile, an editorial in The News International commenting on the confusion over the TLP issue says that has the government properly planned and taken action they would not have been able to stage violent demonstrations. It argues the fact is that the state should not be forced and cannot be forced to give its writ away to any group. The fact also is that there should never be a competition to try and prove which party or entity is more religious than the other. Meanwhile, the opposition has also criticised the government for how it has handled the issue.

A short chronology of the rise of TLP
The rise of TLP can be attributed back to two events in 2017, the execution of Mumtaz Qadri and the promulgation of the Election Act, 2017. These two events are what brought the TLP into popular politics. Additionally, the TLP’s leadership which is drawn from the lower middle and bottom of the economy along with the charismatic leadership of Khadim Hussain Rizvi push the party to gain more prominence. Later, in 2018, the TLP consolidated itself and rose to prominence with its participation in the general elections, emerging as the fifth largest party nationwide.

Also read
Ahmed Yusuf, "What is behind the sudden rise of TLP?," Dawn, 5 August 2018
Hussain H Zaidi, "The rise of the TLP," The News International, 5 December 2020
"Banned: What does the TLP want?," Dawn, 20 April 2021
"In review plea against ban, TLP accuses govt of ‘deceit," The Express Tribune, 3 May 2012

"Govt under fire for mishandling TLP crisis," The Express Tribune, 19 April 2021

In Brief
INTERNAL
Editorial calls on government to desist from curbing press freedom
An editorial in Dawn, referring to the passage of a bill in the Punjab Assembly, on journalists, says that the move is outrageous but not surprising. The editorial outlines that since the PTI came to power, there have been gradual attempts ”to curtail the independence of the media by keeping it under all kinds of pressure.” Further, referring to the FIA summoning TV journalist Nadeem Malik, the editorial maintains that these are age-old tricks that the Pakistan government does not get tired of using. It cautions against the above saying “weakening the media amounts to undermining democracy and fundamental rights” and calls on the PTI to refrain from such tactics. (“More press curbs,” Dawn, 6 July 2021)

Imran named in RSF’s Press freedom predator’s gallery; PML-N calls it chargesheet against PTI government 
On 6 July, Dawn reported that Imran Khan had been added under a “predatory behaviour” category in the Reporters without Borders (RSF) agency’s report on press freedom. The Prime Minister features under the RSF “Press freedom predators gallery” 2021 list, along with 36 other countries’ heads. Reacting to this, the PML-N Information Secretary said that the PM’s inclusion on the list was damaging Pakistan’s image across the world. She reportedly termed the development as a chargesheet against the PTI government. (“RSF report a charge-sheet against govt: PML-N,” Dawn, 6 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Three soldiers killed in suspected terrorist attack in North Waziristan
On 5 July, three soldiers were killed and one injured in a suspected terrorist attack in North Waziristan. Dawn referred to some officials who said the attack took place at the Beza check-post near the Afghan border; use of heavy weaponry is suspected. The latest incident comes after two soldiers were killed when alleged terrorists from Afghanistan opened fire at a military post in North Waziristan’s Dwatoi area and three soldiers were killed in South Waziristan on the same day. (“3 soldiers martyred in terrorist attack on North Waziristan check-post,” Dawn, 6 July 2021)

Balochistan: Five terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation 
On 5 July, five BLA terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation of the CTD in Quetta’s Killi Gulzar, Hazar Ganji area; three terrorists escaped. The Quetta police spokesperson informed that they recovered “two sub-machine guns, three 9mm pistols, along with their rounds, two hand grenades and two motorcycles” from the terrorists. The operation was carried out after the CTD received information on a plan to attack a sensitive installation. (Salman Ashraf, “Five BLA terrorists killed in Quetta operation,” The News International, 6 July 2021) 

Balochistan: Imran Khan contemplates talking to insurgents 
On 5 July, Imran Khan said he would consider engaging in talks with the insurgents in the province. According to The News International, he claimed that some “insurgents might be upset with the state due to some past grievances or India might have used them to spread terror in Pakistan.” However, he maintained that today, Pakistan’s situation was improving and that “Gwadar is becoming a focal point for Pakistan, which will benefit the country, especially Balochistan.” (“PM considering talking to Baloch insurgents,” The News International, 6 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Government’s domestic debt soars by 12 per cent to Rs 26.7 trillion
On 6 July, Dawn reported that the government’s domestic borrowing was recorded at Rs 26.755 trillion for the first 11 months of FY20-21. This is a 12 per cent increase against Rs Rs 23.876 trillion in the corresponding period of the previous financial year. In June alone, the government raised Rs 12.886 trillion through Pakistan Investment Bonds (PIBs). Meanwhile, until May, the amount borrowed through PIBs stood at Rs 14.323 trillion. (Shahid Iqbal, “Govt borrowings rise by 12pc in 11MFY21,” Dawn, 6 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
COAS meets Commander Turkish Land Forces
On 5 July, COAS General Bajwa met with the Commander Turkish Land Forces in Rawalpindi. The two agreed to enhance military ties and cooperation in counter-terrorism training. Matters of mutual interest included a focus on defence and security collaboration. The News International reported that Turkish Commander appreciated Pakistan’s role in regional peace and stability. (Rasheed Khalid, “Turkish commander meets COAS, defence ties discussed,” The News International, 6 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan considers building refugee settlements along border to prevent influx into mainland 
On 6 July, Dawn reported that Pakistan was considering not opening its borders to a possible influx of Afghan refugees in the light of the US withdrawal from the country. The Interior Minister said, “We have decided not to open our border for refugees; the aid agencies can help the needy on the other side.” Further, he said in case of deterioration of the situation, Pakistan “will establish settlements along the border with strict control and monitoring, prohibiting the entry of refugees into the mainland.” This, he opined, was the Iranian model of managing refugees which Pakistan would be willing to implement. (Kalbe Ali, “Pakistan may emulate Iran over refugee influx,” Dawn, 6 July 2021) 

ON INDIA
President, Foreign Minister accuse India of involvement in Lahore blast 
On 5 July, President Arif Alvi alleged that India was training and funding militants in Afghanistan for targeting Pakistan. He made the remarks while meeting the Commander of Turkish Land Forces. He also accused India of being involved in the recent blast in Lahore. Further, he alleged that the international community was silent on the “illegal uranium trade in India.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “India using Afghan soil for terrorism in Pakistan: Alvi,” Dawn, 6 July 2021) On the same day, Foreign Minister Qureshi said Pakistan would raise the above issues at the international level. The Express Tribune quoted him, “We expect the international community to take notice of solid evidence provided by Pakistan about Indian involvement in Johar Town, Lahore terror incident.” (“Pakistan to raise issue of Indian terror financing at int’l level: FM Qureshi,” The Express Tribune, 5 July 2021)

Editorial says spoilers should not derail talks between India and Pakistan 
An editorial in Dawn citing Pakistan’s alleged “concrete evidence” against India outlines that the Lahore blast took place “at a time when a nominal thaw in frosty Pakistan-India relations was underway.” The editorial says that the path to peace is not easy in South Asia and is mired with spoilers, but reiterates that the issue will not be resolved until the Kashmir problem is addressed. Further, it calls on Pakistan to “not tolerate acts of terrorism on its soil” but also “not allow such incidents to derail the greater quest for peace, bumpy as the road may be.” It maintains that backchannel talks with India, if any, should continue; on the other hand, the editorial says India “must stop indulging in such destabilising behaviour and talk to Pakistan about all irritants...” (“NSA on Lahore blast,” Dawn, 6 July 2021)

An opinion in The News International argues that Pakistan’s focus must be on preventing attacks like the Johar Town, Lahore by busting domestic terror networks of all shades and ensuring swift prosecution based on irrefutable evidence, all the while also making efforts to defeat the domestic extremist mindset.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar

On 1 July, Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated that Pakistan accepts China’s version of the Uighur Muslims of Xinjiang province. He reasoned, “Because of our extreme proximity and relationship with China, we actually accept the Chinese version.” This is not the first time that Pakistan has looked the other way on the Xinjiang issue. In 2020, China appreciated Pakistan’s “objective and just position” on the issue. This development came after NSA Moeed Yusuf reportedly said that all people in Xinjiang, regardless of ethnicity, are equally protected by the law. 

Imran Khan is critical of the coverage of the Xinjiang situation in the West; he says, “It is hypocritical. There are much worse human rights violations taking place in other parts of the world such as in occupied Kashmir. But Western media hardly comments on this.” The Palestinian cause, the Rohingya issue, and alleged rights abuses in Kashmir have indeed been elements of Pakistan’s attempt to be the voice of the Muslim world. 

On 21 May, Pakistan observed a Palestine Solidarity Day when violent clashes ensued between Israel and Palestine. Prior to this, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi called on the Muslim countries to unite and raise concerns over the Palestine issue. He said, “We can raise our voices individually [but] the issue will be noted when all 57 OIC members voice their support. A lone Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Malaysia and Indonesia can't do anything.” 

This call was similar to the time Pakistan raised concerns over Kashmir and alleged that the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation was silent on the “blatant human rights violations in India-held Kashmir.” Imran Khan said, “We don’t want the Muslim Ummah to come together to fight, but to protect the interests like any other community does...The reason is that we have no voice and there is a total division amongst [us]. We can’t even come together as a whole on the OIC summit meeting on Kashmir.” Similarly, after India’s decision on 5 August 2019, Imran Khan’s speech at  the UN General Assembly made headlines wherein he accused India of conducting an “ethnic cleansing” of Muslims in Kashmir. Prior to the speech, he asked, “India's violation of all international laws including humanitarian laws is there for the world to see. So why is the world silent? Is the international community's humanity dead when Muslims are being persecuted?”

Meanwhile, Pakistan has been highlighting the Rohingya issue and has repeatedly called for action against Myanmar. Prior to Imran Khan’s election to the Prime Ministerial position, he wrote a letter to the UN Secretary General; He said, “...I wish to state that we find this continuing silence and complete inaction by the UN on the continuing plight and persecution of the Rohingya Muslims of Myanmar a shameful testament to UN failure to follow its basic principles of upholding human rights and protecting a people from genocide.”

However, by raising concerns on the above three and remaining silent on the Xinjiang issue, Pakistan is walking on thin ice. An opinion in Dawn explains that the government’s refusal to acknowledge the Uighur issue will seep into the public narratives and will therefore attract more scrutiny from the government on the same. Further, Pakistan’s stand will also force the West to question Islamabad’s claims of alleged violation of rights in Kashmir. Therefore, as the author says, in a world which is being polarised between the West and China, “Pakistan is on track to side with China...there is no space to debate whether this is the best course for Pakistan.” 

In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM’s rally in Swat: Shehbaz says 'Revolution' needed against govt policies of destruction  
On 4 July, the PDM held its first gathering after several months. While addressing the gathering Shehbaz Sharif criticised the government for its policies “taking the country to the brink of destruction,” adding that the Naya Pakistan of PTI government's era was in fact far behind the 'purana (old) Pakistan.' Further, he stated that the present state of affairs was "not the country envisioned by our founders who sacrificed their lives for it" and that a revolution was needed against poverty, inflation, oppression and the current system, adding, “If this resolution doesn’t come about, then we won’t be able to get ourselves accepted at the international level.” (“'Revolution' needed against govt policies of destruction, Shehbaz tells PDM rally in Swat,” Dawn, 5 July 2021) Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry Fawad Hussain termed the rally in Swat as ‘a picnic of retired opposition leaders,’ claiming that the opposition had failed miserably. He said, “They have nothing but words for the nation. Shehbaz Sahib! Nawaz Sharif has looted the people and fled to London, he made less electricity and more expensive electricity.” (“PDM’s public meeting in Swat miserably failed: Fawad,” The News International, 5 July 2021) 

NAB establishes cell to counter terror financing and money laundering   
On 5 July, Dawn reported that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) established the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML&CFT) cell to check financial crimes and illegal transfer of resources. The main responsibility of the cell would be to investigate terror financing cases that will still lie with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Additionally, the AML&CFT cell would coordinate with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Secretariat and stakeholders concerned to curb money laundering and terror financing. (Syed Irfan Raza, “NAB cell to counter terror financing, money laundering,” Dawn, 5 July 2021) 

ICAO postpones visit to Pakistan 
On 3 July, Federal Minister for Aviation stated that the visit by a team of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to Pakistan has been postponed due to the pandemic situation. The ICAO team was to visit Pakistan from 5 to 15 July but is now expected to come in September/October. (Mohammad Asghar, “Civil aviation team postpones visit to Pakistan,” Dawn, 5 July 2021) 

Experts warn of water shortage in Pakistan 
On 4 July, Geo News reported that experts have warned that a famine-like situation may arise if the issue of scarcity of water across the country is not resolved. Water experts warn that if new water reservoirs are not created and water wastage is not stopped, Pakistan will face a famine-like situation, adding that due to increasing population, water loss and climate change, the authorities will have to take immediate precautions, otherwise, famine will be inevitable. (Mohammad Asghar, “Experts warn of a famine-like situation if water crisis continues across Pakistan,” Geo News, 4 July 2021) 

EXTERNAL 
PM Khan speaks with Iranian President, says Afghanistan's worsening situation can have 'serious repercussions'  
On 4 July, PM Imran Khan held a telephonic conversation with Iranian President-elect Seyed Ebrahim Raisi and expressed concern over the worsening security situation in Afghanistan. He said that the latest developments could lead to serious repercussions for both Pakistan and Iran. Further, both sides also expressed satisfaction over their bilateral relations and agreed on further boosting existing cooperation, in particular in its economic dimension. (“Afghanistan's worsening situation can have 'serious repercussions', PM Imran tells Iranian leader,” Dawn, 5 July 2021) 

ON INDIA 
Pakistan has shared evidence of alleged Indian terrorism with the world community, says FM Qureshi 
On 4 July, FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that Pakistan had already shared evidence of alleged "Indian state-sponsored terrorism" inside Pakistan with the international community, which was once again proved after its alleged involvement in the Johar Town Lahore blast. He said Islamabad has irrefutable evidence of Indian terror financing, stating, “Is it not a responsibility of the Financial Action Task Force to hold India accountable for its terror financing? If any action was not taken, then it will show double standards.” (“Evidence of Indian terrorism shared with world community: Qureshi,” The News International, 5 July 2021)  This statement came after National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf claimed that investigation into the Lahore blast concluded that the attack was allegedly carried out by the India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). He said, “I want to make sure that our message is heard very clearly that this particular incident on 23rd of June in Lahore we have concrete evidence and intelligence including financial and telephone records that point to direct Indian sponsorship of these terrorists.” (“Indian RAW orchestrated Lahore terrorist attack: NSA,” The News International, 5 July 2021) 

An editorial in Dawn states that Pakistan has a long way to go before it can fully address the issue of food insecurity and hunger. But it can start moving in that direction by tweaking its policies that directly or indirectly impact the ability of the poor to access nutritious meals.  

An editorial in The New International states that digital infrastructure must expand but not at the cost of the poor; adding, that the state must realise that the ‘Digital’ is the way of the future and for that reason, it is the responsibility of the state to ensure that every citizen has access to the digital reality of this century.  

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) is set to restart its campaign against the PTI government with a fresh round of rallies and contact drives beginning from 4 July to 14 August. The PDM returns after several challenges, including the Senate elections, the exit of PPP and ANP, and the numerous intra-party issues. Thus, PDM 2.0 comes with changes.

First, the exit of the PPP and the ANP has no doubt dented the alliance. PDM Secretary-General categorically stated that there was no place for the PPP within the alliance until it restored the trust it had betrayed. Conversely, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that leaders of the alliance appeared to be “divided and indecisive in their objective and strategy,” adding that his party and ANP did not “express desire” to re-join the anti-govt alliance. Although the PDM was always a divided house, an important element of the alliance was the fact that it brought all the major opposition parties on a common platform. However, the impact of the PDM minus the PPP will be seen as the alliance begins its second course. 

Second, the return of Shehbaz Sharif. With the PDM set to restart its anti-government drive for the biggest party in the alliance, PML-N, is not yet clear whether Shehbaz Sharif or Maryam Nawaz would lead the party. While the PML-N Secretary-General has stated that Maryam would lead, the party spokesperson said that Maryam and Shehbaz “both would lead the party into the rally.” This aside, the PML-N has once again locked into a battle with itself after Shehbaz’s gesture of inviting the PPP and ANP to a dinner triggering senior PML-N leaders. This recent spark of intra-party controversy has led to the stance that all is not well inside the PML-N. Additionally, the difference between uncle and niece has only widened. Maryam seeks to move forward with Nawaz Sharif's narrative, however, Shahbaz wants a policy that is more inclusive towards the opposition and more flexible towards the establishment. This internal bickering inside the PML-N is likely to have an impact on the functioning of the PDM.

The PDM has held more than 10 rallies so far. The alliance held its first power show in Gujranwala on 16 October 2020. This was followed by its second jalsa in Karachi on 18 October 2020. Its third rally was held in Quetta on 25 October 2020. The alliance then held its fourth rally in Peshawar on 22 November 2020. Unlike anti-government of the past, the focus was on the security Establishment, whom they saw as the real power behind the PTI government. 

During its first phase, the movement remained to be highly rhetorical and did not have any major impact on the ruling PTI government. PDM 2.0 will also continue on that path if the alliance fails to translate its rhetoric into action. With the alliance taking on a new form, its actions will determine if the alliance succeeds in reaching its goal. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Opposition questions PM’s absence in security briefing
On 3 July, The Express Tribune reported that PM Imran Khan’s absence from the security briefing session had sparked a controversy. On one hand, a cabinet member said that the PM did not attend the session because the PML-N allegedly threatened to walk out of the parliament if Imran Khan was present. However, PML-N denied the above statement and demanded proof for the allegations. Similarly, the PPP asked, “Has the PM given a message that he has no concern with the internal and external policies by not attending the meeting?”  (Rizwan Shehzad, “PM’s absence from critical meeting sparks controversy,” The Express Tribune, 3 July 2021) An editorial in Dawn highlights that the PM has, on several counts, been absent from such briefings. The editorial outlines the military taking notice of the “divisive politics” should be taken “as a warning to politicians about how their inability to communicate is giving further room to the establishment to interfere in civilian matters.” It cautions that since the security establishment has been deeply involved in the country’s decision making, lawmakers should come together, strengthen the democratic institutions and prove that politicians can deal with civilian matters. (“Security briefing,” Dawn, 3 July 2021)

Editorial criticises government’s lack of attention to concerns about digital content rules
An editorial in Dawn, referring to Pakistan’s Removal of Unlawful Online Content Rules, 2021, says that the government's lack of attention to the rights defenders’ contentions with the draft validates their worst fears about digital governance through state interference. The editorial says that the urge to control and monitor everyone’s lives through such “oppressive” means will lead to social and economic downturns. It says the cost of promoting a “statist monoculture” will be borne by the citizens in the future. Therefore, unless the government wants to “plunge the country into a digital dark age, there is only one course of action it must undertake: denotify the rules and commit to a comprehensive overhaul of Peca.” (“Draconian rules,” Dawn, 3 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Opposition MPAs threaten to go on hunger strike after journalists denied entry to cover protests
On 2 July, opposition MPAs, claiming that the provincial government was insensitive towards them, threatened to go on a hunger strike. The development comes after the police denied entry to the media at a police station where the opposition was protesting claiming the government had not withdrawn FIRs against them; some opposition members were at the police station for over 12 days. Leader of the Opposition in the Balochistan Assembly said, “For two days now, visitors and journalists have been barred from entering the police station,” adding, “The police are working as a tool of Chief Minister Jam Kamal. We have asked the police to arrest us.” Meanwhile, the Chief Minister, referring to the opposition’s previous sit-in outside the Assembly and later the police station, tweeted, “The bullying mind is more visible. Everything has a limit. The opposition is crossing every limit.” (Saleen Shahid, “Opposition MPAs in Balochistan threaten to go on hunger strike,” Dawn, 3 July 2021) (Mohammad Zafar, “Opposition MPs, police engage in verbal spat in Quetta,” The Express Tribune, 3 July 2021)

Sindh: Leader of Opposition dismisses government claims of unequal water distribution to province 
On 2 July, the Leader of the Opposition in the Sindh Assembly rejected the provincial government's stand that Sindh was not getting its due water share and said that all provinces were getting their share in line with the Water Accord 1991. Instead, he alleged that the distribution within Sindh was unjust wherein influential people had unlimited access to water and tail-end farmers suffered. Further, he accused the province's irrigation department of becoming a mafia gang. ("All provinces getting due share in water, distribution within Sindh unfair: Haleem," Dawn, 7 July 2021)

ECONOMY
NEPRA gives green signal to increase power tariff by up to Rs 2.97
On 2 July, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) approved an increase in electricity tariff of up to Rs 2.97 per unit. This entails “a fresh surcharge of Rs1.25 per unit for all consumers, except residential consumers, and a quarterly adjustment of Rs1.72 per unit for all consumers.” The tariff increase would be effective from 1 October and is expected to generate an additional Rs 135 billion revenue. The developments came after 1,500 MW was conceded in power cuts. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Nepra okays up to Rs2.97 per unit tariff increase,” Dawn, 3 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Military leadership more realistic towards US policy, say sources
On 2 July, parliamentarians who attended the Parliamentary Committee on National Security told Dawn that military and intelligence leaders were open to having a healthy relationship with the US. An opposition member reportedly opined that the military leaders seemed to have a realistic approach than the PM who gave the impression of having a tougher stance on the US and another parliamentarian said there were indications of a foreign policy reorientation. Meanwhile, National Security Adviser in a separate programme, reiterated that the US will not be assisted through lending airbases. He referred to a meeting between the NSAs of the two countries and said, “The US neither asked for bases nor talked about using our airspace." (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Military leaders back healthy working relationship with US,” Dawn, 3 July 2021) (Kamran Yousuf and Rizwan Shehzad, “US will ‘not get bases’ in Pakistan,” The News International, 3 July 2021)

Pakistan rejects inclusion in CSPA 2021 list; FO calls for review
On 2 July, the Foreign Office termed Pakistan’s inclusion on the Child Soldiers Prevention Act (CSPA) list 2021 as “baseless assertions” attributing it to “a factual error and lack of understanding.” The FO maintained that the US had not consulted any state body before publishing the report, adding, “Nor were any details provided of the basis on which the conclusion was reached.” With this, the FO called on the US to review the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report and said, “Pakistan also expects the sharing of 'credible information' on cases involving Trafficking in Persons as well as on allegations pertaining to support to armed groups using child soldiers.” (Naveed Siddiqui, “Pakistan rejects its 'baseless inclusion' in US child soldier recruiter list, seeks review: FO,” Dawn, 3 July 2021)

Islamabad, Tashkent discuss Trans-Afghan railway project; stress in need for peace in Afghanistan
On 3 July, the inaugural round of the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Bilateral Political Consultations was held virtually. The two sides discussed the Trans-Afghan railway project between Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. The countries observed that "ensuring security, stability and lasting peace in Afghanistan through an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process" was necessary. Further, they agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation and maintain the current momentum of talks. ("Pakistan, Uzbekistan agree to expand bilateral ties," The Express Tribune, 3 July 2021)

An editorial in Dawn on “CCP centenary” states that while Pakistan has accepted Beijing’s version on the Uighur issue, it can, through diplomatic channels, urge China to address this issue judiciously.

An opinion in Dawn states that Pakistan has repeatedly complained that the global community does not value its sacrifices in the war on terror. But if the foreign minister, after losing so many citizens, is still confused about whether OBL is a martyr or a terrorist, on what grounds can Pakistan complain to the world for lack of sympathy? It argues, Pakistan’s approach has scarcely been beneficial. Perhaps it’s time for a better, clearer policy.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar 

On 1 July, the US named Pakistan in its Child Soldiers Prevention Act (CSPA) list under the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report 2021. Under the CSPA, a child soldier is “any person under 18 years of age who takes a direct part in hostilities as a member of governmental armed forces, police, or other security forces.” It also includes anyone under 18, who is recruited as part of armed forces other than the state’s armed forces. Further, the definition extends to anyone under 15, “who has been voluntarily recruited into governmental armed forces, police, or other security forces.” Child soldiers also include children who work as cooks, guards, messengers, sex slaves and the like. The latest report includes data from April 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021.

Under the 2021 CSPA, Pakistan has been placed on the Tier 2 Watch List. This means that the Pakistan government “does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so.” Further, it also states that the government “provided material support to non-state armed groups that recruited and used child soldiers.” The report outlines that non-state actors either kidnap or force vulnerable families to give away children, some as young as 12, or recruit from madrassas; the children are then used “to spy, fight, and conduct suicide attacks in Pakistan and Afghanistan.” Some of the children recruited from Pakistan, mostly boys, are also used as sex slaves - in a practice commonly known as bacha bazi - in Afghanistan. 

However, the problem of child soldiers in Pakistan did not come to limelight in the last one year. In 2012, the UNSC named Pakistan in the Children and Armed Conflict report which held governments and armed groups accountable for recruitment, killing, and sexually assaulting children in armed conflict. Similarly, in 2010, a Pakistani citizen wrote to Dawn highlighting the Tehrik-i-Taliban’s (TTP) use of child soldiers; the group forced children as young as seven to become suicide bombers. Further, the person cited a Washington Times report which stated that a child bomber’s value was USD 7,000 to USD 14,000 in 2010. Another news report by Dawn in 2015 outlined the plight of children in 2007 when areas like Swat were terrorised by militant violence. The news report said that some children “not only lost their families to the fighting between the military and the Taliban but were later abducted by the militants and trained to become killers.”

Therefore, this proves that for years, Pakistan has failed to address the problem. Being placed under the CSPA 2021 means that Pakistan will be suspended from availing the US’ “International Military Education and Training, Foreign Military Financing, Excess Defence Articles, and Peacekeeping Operations” from 1 October 2021 into the 2022 financial year. This is a major blow to Pakistan as the US Secretary of Defense had, in January, announced intentions to train Pakistan's military leaders through the International Military Education and Training funds. Similarly, in May, the Pentagon had clarified that the US security assistance remains suspended; therefore, with the inclusion in the CSPA 2021 list, Pakistan's chances of reviving or receiving US assistance are bleak. 

Meanwhile, the TIP report includes the US Secretary of State's message: "we call on governments to join the United States in improving our collective efforts to comprehensively address human trafficking.  Doing so requires us to mitigate harmful practices and policies that cause socioeconomic or political vulnerabilities that traffickers often prey on." Similarly, the Acting Director outlines that COVID-19  has not stopped traffickers from operating; rather, the pandemic has increased their adaptability. She, therefore, calls on the governments to join hands as, "It is through collaboration and collective understanding of both the nuances of our profoundly changed world and the needs of those affected most by the compounding effects of both human trafficking and the COVID-19 pandemic that a path forward emerges."

In Brief
INTERNAL
Military and intelligence leaders brief parliamentary committee, call for avoiding of divisive politics
On 1 July, military and intelligence leaders gave a briefing to the Parliamentary Committee on National Security on the spectrum of possible threats and the regional environment. During the briefing, they called for avoiding divisive politics on issues of national interest as they cautioned that strategic challenges and related policy shifts in external relations could have repercussions for the country. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Military calls for avoiding of divisive politics,” Dawn, 2 July 2021)

Senate Committee calls for reviewing judges’ recruitment procedure
On 1 July, the Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice called for reviewing the procedure for the appointment of judges. This comes after it was informed that the experiment of making the recruitment through the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) had failed. Meanwhile, the committee passed the Women's Property Rights Enforcement (Amendment) Bill, 2021. (Saqib Virk, “Senate panel calls for review of judges’ recruitment procedure,” The Express Tribune, 2 July 2021)

President stressed the need for strengthening cybersecurity
On 1 July, President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the need for strengthening the cybersecurity of the country. He said, “The world used fake news as a tool to justify wars against other nations,” adding, “It is a fact that enmities among nations, in the past, had been created based on fake news.” He said, Pakistan, the shortest way to success was contemporary intellectual change and hoped that Pakistan could emerge as a power by gaining a stronghold in the upcoming ‘global intellectual revolution.’ (Syed Irfan Raza, “President stresses need for strengthening cyber security,” Dawn, 2 July 2021)

COAS meets with Pakistan's ambassador to UN 
On 1 July, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations Ambassador Munir Akram met with COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa. During the meeting, matters of mutual interests, overall regional security situation, including the Afghanistan reconciliation process and Kashmir dispute were discussed. (“Army chief Gen Bajwa meets Pakistan's ambassador to UN Munir Akram,” The News International, 1 July 2021)

Food security has turned into a matter of national security, says PM 
On 1 July, PM Imran Khan stated that for Pakistan food security has turned into a matter of national security. He said Pakistan's "biggest challenge" in the future would be food security, explaining that Pakistan had to import four million tonnes of wheat last year alone to meet a shortfall, adding that it was unsustainable for the country to keep on going like this. He said, “If we want to save our nation from the challenges ahead [we need to see that] food security in reality [has become] national security.” (“Food security has turned into a matter of national security, PM Imran Khan says,” The News International, 1 July 2021)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Journalists reject new law passed by Punjab Assembly as an attack on the press freedom
On 2 July, Dawn reported that journalists have rejected the recently passed law by the Punjab Assembly as an attack on press freedom. As per the bill, the judicial committee of the house may penalise in a summary trial any journalist or bureaucrat for breach of a privilege of the house, any of its committee or a member. Additionally, they have a rally outside the Governor House on 2 July (today) to protest against the controversial bill, terming it against democratic norms. (“Journalists reject new law passed by Punjab Assembly,” Dawn, 2 July 2021)

Sindh: Police stop growers from marching towards Sindh irrigation minister’s house
On 1 July, a caravan of growers was stopped by police after they were marching towards Larkana to stage a demonstration outside the residence of the Sindh irrigation minister in protest against an acute shortage of water in the command areas of Saifullah Magsi branch, SKT branch and Warah Canal. (“Police stop growers from marching on Sindh irrigation minister’s house,” Dawn, 2 July 2021)

ECONOMY
Trade deficit increases by 30.8 billion in FY21
On 1 July, the Ministry of Commerce said that Pakistan’s merchandise trade deficit widened by 32.9 per cent, or USD 7.616 billion, in the outgoing fiscal year (FY21) from a year ago on the back of lower export proceeds and higher than expected imports. The annual trade deficit reached USD 30.796 billion in July-June. According to Dawn, this may pose some challenges for the government in controlling external accounts. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Trade deficit swells to $30.8bn in FY21,” Dawn, 2 July 2021)

PM commends FBR for 'historic level of tax revenues'
On 2 July, PM Imran Khan commended the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for achieving a "historic level of tax revenues" during the outgoing fiscal year. In a Tweet, he said, "I commend efforts of FBR in achieving historic level of tax revenues of Rs.4732 bn in 2020-21 - exceeding the target of Rs 4691 bn & 18% higher than last year." Previously, the Bureau reported that it had met its target for the fiscal year 2021-22. As per the report, the FBR went over its tax collection target of Rs 4,691 billion for the fiscal year 2020-21 and managed to collect Rs4,725 billion. (“PM Imran Khan gives FBR pat on the back for 'historic level of tax revenues',” The News International, 2 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan’s stand on Palestine remains unchanged, says FO
On 1 July, Pakistan clarified that although it was participating as an observer in the Sea Breeze naval exercise hosted by Ukraine along with the Israeli personnel, its principled position on the Palestine issue remained unchanged. The Foreign Office spokesperson said, “We have consistently called for two-state solutions with pre-1967 borders and Al-Quds al Sharif as the capital of Palestinian state.” (“Pak stand on Palestine remains unchanged: FO,” The News International, 2 July 2021)

In Focus
On 30 June, the International Crisis Group released a report titled ‘Pakistan: Shoring Up Afghanistan’s Peace Process’ in which it states, “The fast-paced withdrawal of foreign troops amid stalled peace talks and rising insurgent violence in Afghanistan threatens to undermine Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate the Taliban’s return to Kabul through power-sharing arrangements that have international backing.” The report claims that if the Afghan negotiations fail, “Islamabad’s relations with Kabul and Washington would sour. Further instability or Taliban gains in Afghanistan could embolden Pakistani militants aligned with their Afghan counterparts, deepening insecurity in Pakistan, especially in its tribal areas along the Afghan border.” The report recommends, “Islamabad should reach out to Kabul to reduce mistrust. Using the access and leverage provided by the Taliban leadership’s sanctuaries on its territory, Pakistan should press the insurgents to reduce violence and negotiate a compromise on power-sharing arrangements with other Afghan stakeholders.”

Pakistan’s Afghan problem has peaked to a new level. As the report suggests both the civilian and military leadership are concerns about the implications of Afghanistan’s worsening conflict for Pakistan. 

First, Pakistan’s strategy towards the Taliban. Although Pakistan’s relationship with the Taliban has certainly not been trouble-free, the report states that Pakistan’s ties to the Taliban are certainly much closer, thus it can influence the group greater, than any other regional or extra-regional actor. It suggests that it is in Pakistan’s interest to use its leverage over the Taliban to prevent the Afghan conflict from escalating to the point of no return. However, with the expansion of the Afghan negotiations and the Taliban garnering support from other regional actors, the proposition of Pakistan’s influence over the Taliban can be questioned.

Second, Islamabad’s relations with Kabul. The report states that Pakistan’s treatment of Afghanistan as a Pakistani protectorate as well as the continued presence of Taliban shuras has caused decades of suspicion and ill will in Kabul. This can be seen in the recent spats between the two. Although Pakistan has assured the government in Kabul of its support, tensions will likely continue unless Pakistan succeeds in pressuring the insurgents to reduce violence and in bringing them back to the negotiating table.

Third, Pakistan’s US dilemma. The report states that Pakistan’s hand in facilitating the US-led Afghan peace process would also help mend relations with the US. However, with the negotiations stalled and Pakistan showing no interest in the US’s counterterrorism plans, this is far from being a reality. On 30 June, PM Imran Khan stated that Pakistan could be "partners with the United States in peace but never in conflict" and criticised past policies that had led to Pakistan joining the US war on terror in Afghanistan. He said, "When we gave so many services, did they (US) praise us or acknowledge our sacrifices? Instead, they called us a hypocrite and blamed us. Instead of appreciating us, Pakistan was bad-mouthed."

Fourth, Pakistan’s Afghan problem. The implications of Afghanistan’s worsening conflict for Pakistan’s domestic security have been the biggest concern for Pakistan. However, the report suggests that some of these concerns have yet to translate into a tangible policy shift toward either the Taliban leadership or Kabul. It suggests that Pakistan should act immediately or else it might be too late.

The report concludes by stating that Pakistan has managed to persuade the Taliban to occasionally join talks and to demonstrate an interest in negotiations without exerting too much pressure to sever the relationship. However, with the withdrawal of troops, Pakistan no longer can balance pursuing its preference for a negotiated settlement with its preference for a moderated approach to pressuring the Taliban. It adds, that Pakistan will also have to stop treating Afghanistan as a Pakistani protectorate and abandon “an approach that has for far too long focused on cultivating Afghan proxies” to overcome Kabul’s mistrust. It warns that if the Afghan conflict continues, Pakistan stands to lose more than any country.

This leaves Pakistan in a tight spot; Pakistan ideally would want to maintain a balanced approach when it comes to dealing with the Taliban and Kabul. However, domestic repercussions and pressure from stakeholders would push Pakistan to choose otherwise. Which side Pakistan tilts towards remains in question. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Petition filed in SC seeking release of Saad Rizvi
On 30 June, Saad Hussain Rizvi’s relative filed a petition in the Supreme court calling for the release of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik chief. The petitioner said that he and Saad Rizvi were not informed about the grounds for the detention. He also claimed that no order for detention was produced before them; he, therefore, maintained that detaining Saad Rizvi was unlawful and unconstitutional. The development comes after the Lahore High Court had previously dismissed pleas for Rizvi’s release on 24 May. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC urged to overturn order about TLP chief detention,” Dawn, 1 July 2021)

Information Minister lashes out at “judicial activism”
On 30 June, the Information Minister called for judicial reforms while criticising the Sindh High Court’s order to ban TikTok and the Islamabad High Court’s decision to set aside the appointment of the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) President. The Express Tribune quoted the Minister, “My head is spinning after reading about the decision to ban TikTok and remove the NBP president. What are our courts doing? The country has already suffered losses worth billions of dollars due to judicial activism.” The SHC order was issued on the grounds that the video-sharing app was promoting immoral activities; the IHC order held that the appointment of the NBP President and the Chairman of the bank’s board of directors was made in violation of the law and called for issuing an advertisement for the positions. (“‘Judicial activism’ costing country billions: Fawad,” The Express Tribune, 1 July 2021)

Senate committee to discuss water dispute between Sindh and Punjab
On 30 June, the Senate Standing Commi­ttee on Inter-Provincial Coordina­tion decided to invite the various stakeholders to discuss the water sharing problems between Sindh and Punjab. The officials invited include Indus River System Authority (IRSA) chairman, Punjab and Sindh representatives, and officials from the Water Resources Ministry and Energy Ministry. The development comes after the Council of Common interests, on 17 June, said that it does not deal with the above issues. The CCI had conveyed this to the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination which then brought the matter to the Senate Committee. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Senate panel to take up Sindh-Punjab water dispute,” Dawn, 1 July 2021)

Misuse us authority will invite a heavy cost, IHC warns FIA
On 30 June, the Islamabad High Court heard a petition against the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)’s probe on journalists Bilal Ghauri, Asad Toor and others. The IHC cautioned the FIA against misuse of authority and questioned why the Agency seemed to pursue only journalists. The IHC Chief Justice said, “You need to dispel this impression, since crushing the dissenting voices is against the Islamic injunctions and norms of civilised society.” Asad Toor’s counsel said the FIA had not produced any details about the inquiry against him. The judge told the FIA, “You are creating terror in society since you are summoning a citizen without letting him know details of the complaint.” The court observed that any misuse of authority would attract an imposition of a “heavy cost.” (Malik Asad, “IHC warns FIA against misuse of authority,” Dawn, 1 July 2021)

Crowd protests against AstraZeneca, Pfizer shortage again
On 30 June, thousands gathered at Islamabad’s 9th Avenue to protest against the shortage of AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines. Dawn reports that the police were unable to stop the 2000-odd people who marched towards the F-0 vaccination centre. The development comes days after nearly 3,000 people attacked the same centre for the shortage of the said vaccinations on 28 June. Most of those in need of the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines are expats who need to travel to Gulf nations for work. (“Expats’ protests continue in Islamabad as shortage of Pfizer, AstraZeneca persists,” Dawn, 1 July 2021) (“Desperate overseas workers overrun Covid-19 vaccine centre in Islamabad,” Dawn, 28 June 2021)

ECONOMY
FBR records federal tax collection at Rs 4.7 trillion
On 30 June, the Federal Board of Revenue’s provisional data revealed that tax collection for FY20-21 stood at Rs 4.721 trillion. The collection surpassed the revised target of Rs 4.691 trillion. However, income tax fell short of Rs 137 billion wherein the collection was Rs1.734 trillion the Rs 1.871 trillion target.  Similarly, Federal Excise Duty (FED) fell short by Rs 25 billion as the collection stood at Rs 284 billion against the Rs 309 billion target. Sales tax surpassed the target by Rs 317 billion; however, this has been attributed to high inflation and petroleum prices. Meanwhile, customs collection was recorded at Rs 765 billion. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “FBR tax collection clocks in at Rs4.7tr,” Dawn, 1 July 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan will not isolate traditional allies, says editorial 
An editorial in Dawn, referring to Prime Minister’s remarks reiterating Pakistan’s close ties with China during a CGTN interview, says that he was right in choosing not to align with “anti-Beijing” groups. The editorial acknowledges the long standing ties between the two countries and China’s support to Pakistan, but also stresses that cordial relations with the US are always welcome. This includes a shift from the transactional relation between Islamabad and Washington. It says Pakistan’s message to the US should be: “we want close relations with you, but Pakistan will not become a party to any rivalries designed to isolate its traditional allies.” Meanwhile, it says Pakistan should always frame its foreign policy through a democratic process and recalls that in 2015, it was the parliamentary wisdom which prevented the country from getting involved in the Yemen war in 2015. (“Our foreign ties,” Dawn, 1 July 2021)

Pakistan rejects Western concerns over Xinjiang, calls it hypocritical
On 1 July, PM Imran Khan said Pakistan accepts China's version of the Uighur Muslim issue in Xinjiang region. He reasoned that since the two countries enjoy close ties, Pakistan accepts the version. He further alleged that talking about Xinjiang and Hong Kong and not about Kashmir was hypocritical. Dawn quoted him, "It is hypocritical. There are much worse human rights violations taking place in other parts of the world such as in occupied Kashmir. But Western media hardly comments on this." ("Pakistan accepts China's version on Xinjiang's Uighurs: PM Imran," Dawn, 1 July 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Foreign Minister, PM reiterate support to Afghan-led solution to conflict
On 30 June, Foreign Minister Qureshi emphasised that the solution to the Afghan conflict lies with the Afghan people itself and that Pakistan can only be a facilitator. The Express Tribune quoted him, “We can only facilitate the peace process and reconciliation among the Afghan stakeholders...Other countries, may it the United States, China or Russia, could only extend support to the peace process, however, the solution to the problem rested with the Afghans themselves.” (Khalid Mehmood, “Solution to Afghan conflict lies with Afghans only: FM,” The Express Tribune, 1 July 2021) 

ON INDIA
FO denies Pakistan's involvement in drone attack in J&K
On 30 June, the Foreign Office dismissed claims on Pakistan’s involvement in the drone attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The FO said, “While conveniently choosing not to share any evidence, the Indian government has once again leveled serious allegations against Pakistan. This is yet another manifestation of the unsubstantiated propaganda and smear campaign against Pakistan that is characteristic of the Indian government and an obliging Indian media.” The FO said such statements were “baseless” and a “familiar ploy to externalise the blame.” (Mariana Baabar, “Pakistan rejects Indian claim of drone attacks in IIOJ&K,” The News International, 1 July 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Will not attend national security meeting, threatens PoK PM 
On 30 June, the PoK Prime Minister threatened to not attend national security briefing in protest of Imran Khan allegedly resuming ties with India. He alleged, “Prime Minister Imran Khan and [Indian PM] Narendra Modi are two sides of the same coin. The Aug 5, 2019, step was taken with the consent of Modi and Imran.” Further, he claimed Imran Khan had forgotten the past because he could not withstand the external pressure on Kashmir. (“AJK PM threatens to boycott security briefings,” The Express Tribune, 1 July 2021)

An editorial in Dawn states that the mantra to guide all foreign policy decisions should be that Pakistan will not become a party to any rivalries designed to isolate its traditional allies. It adds, all future decisions should also be through the democratic process and settled in a wise and judicious manner.