Continuous protest against the waterlogged in Karachi, call for CBC Chief Executive
On 31 August, widespread devastation in the metropolis after the city remained waterlogged and without power. The protest called for CBC Chief executive officer to address the issue and carried placards and chanting slogans for the repairs. Series of demands were put forward. First, the resignation of the CBC head and the DHA administrator, Second, areas to be drained within the next three days, Third, electricity and gas to be restored in all phases within the next 24 hours and lastly, spraying to be carried out against mosquitoes. (“Residents protest as Karachi's DHA, Clifton remain waterlogged, powerless 5 days after monsoon spell,” Dawn, 31 August 2020)

Imran Khan directs the government to finalize the Karachi transformation plan in a week 
On 31 August, Prime Imran Khan directed the government to finalise the Karachi transformation plan within a week. The plan, formulated to address specific challenges faced by Karachi, was proposed by the planning ministry in a meeting with the Imran Khan. Karachi transformation plan aims to address issues such as solid waste management, water shortage, cleaning of nullahs, sewerage, and transport. The directive comes a week after Karachi was flooded after heavy rainfall, which claimed the 30 lives. The once again exposed the poor infrastructure of the city. (“PM wants Karachi Transformation Plan to be finalized within a week,” Dawn, 31 August 2020)

PMD issues flood warning  
On 31 August, Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) issued a flood warning for the northern parts of the country, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in catchment areas of Kabul River along with hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan division. PMD said that monsoon has become active over Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir, causing widespread rains. The alert from PMD warned that the existing weather system is likely to continue for the next 48 hours. It also advised the concerned authorities to remain alert. (“PMD issues significant flood warning for northern parts of the country,” Dawn, 31 August 2020)

The lowest number of daily COVID-19 cases reported in four months
On 30 August, Pakistan recorded its lowest daily count of COVID-19 cases in more than four months with 213 new cases in a day, and six deaths across the country, while it sampled 18,017 tests. These new figures are the lowest tally since 10 April, where 186 new infections were reported in a day. (“Pakistan reports lowest daily number of COVID-19 cases in 4 months,” The News International, 31 August 2020)

Pakistan condemns defilement of the Quran in Sweden and Norway
On 30 August, the Foreign Office condemned the recent incidents in Sweden and Norway in which copies of the Holy Quran were reportedly burnt, stating that “freedom of speech can't justify religious hatred.” Further, the FO spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri in a Tweet stated, “the rise of such Islamophobic occurrences goes against the spirit of any religion,” adding, “ensuring respect for religious beliefs of others is a collective responsibility and is absolutely critical for global peace and prosperity.” These statements came after, a riot broke out in the southern Swedish town of Malmo, where around 300 people had gathered to protest against anti-Islam activities. (“Pakistan strongly condemns desecration of Quran in Sweden and Norway,” Dawn, 31 August 2020)

 

IMB says the situation is “extremely worrying” as the outbreak of the poliovirus spreads to previously polio-free areas in the country
The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) in its latest assessment of the global polio eradication programme issued a warning stating that if Pakistan does not adopt transformative measures to eradicate poliovirus from the country in the next six months, the situation could become worse. The 18th report of the IMB stated: “there is a new impetus for change and for rapid progress to be made.” Further, citing modelling data, the report notes that Pakistan is at the risk of wild poliovirus cases reaching 500 by the end of 2020 and vaccine-derived poliovirus cases reaching 1,000. Further, the report states, “unless renewed, well-planned and sustained polio vaccination is resumed for the remainder of 2020, the consequences of the inevitable large outbreaks of both kinds of poliovirus will be dire for Pakistan, Afghanistan and probably other countries as well.” (“IMB says if drastic measures not adopted then polio could be worse in six months,” The News International, 31 August 2020)

Youm-i-Ashura observed amid tight security
On 30 August, Youm-i-Ashura was observed nationwide to pay homage to Imam Hussain and other martyrs of Karbala amid strict security arrangements to protect mourners from any unwarranted incidents. The processions were carried out in various cities as thousands of security personnel protected the mourners, further cell phone services in areas across the country were also suspended. Prime Minister Imran Khan tweeted, “there are 3 imp messages for us from Imam Hussain AS, his family & followers' sacrifice at Karbala. 1. Immortality is earned by those who give the supreme sacrifice of their lives to stand against tyranny & injustice. It is not earned simply by being rich, powerful or educated.” Further, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi also tweeted, “let us draw strength from the legacy of Imam Hussain Ibn e Ali (R.A), the embodiment of bravery and determination in the face of oppression and tyranny. May we learn to meet every challenge ahead with the same fortitude and courage.” (Qazi Hassan, Imtiaz Ali, Sirajuddin, Ghalib Nihad, “Youm-i-Ashura observed nationwide amid tight security,” Dawn, 31 August 2020)
 

On 29 August, referring to the recent record-breaking rains experienced by Karachi, Prime Minister Imran Khan said the "entire nation was feeling the pain the people of Karachi" and announced that the Center and Sindh's provincial government would combine forces to resolve the Karachi's crisis. 

The PM tweeted, "The whole nation feels the pain our people in Karachi are going through. However, out of this devastation and suffering there is now a positive development as my govt, along with the Sindh govt, is moving to immediately act and resolve 3 major problems of Karachi". "Cleaning the nullahs once and for all and dealing with encroachments impeding water channels; devising a permanent solution to the solid waste disposal and sewerage problems; and resolving the critical issue of water supply to the citizens of Karachi," he explained regarding the work the governments would undertake. ("Centre, Sindh to act immediately for resolution of major problems facing Karachi: Imran," Dawn, 29 August 2020) 

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister Murad Shah has questioned as to why certain areas (such as the south district) remained submerged in water and pointed out that the absence of Urban Disaster Response Unit of the Karachi Municipal Corporation (KMC) during the devastating rains.

Previously, while attending a press conference at his official residence on 28 August, the CM announced that close to 80 lives had been claimed by the unprecedented rains. Provincial ministers Mukesh Chawla, Saeed Ghani, Nasir Shah and Adviser Murtaza Wahab were also in attendance. ("Murad says 80 people killed in rain-related incidents across Sindh," Dawn, 29 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan seeks Ulema's backing for religious harmony
On 28 August, a delegation of Majlis-i-Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) members led by the party chief Allama Raja Nasir Abbas Jafari met with Imran Khan to discuss the changing regional situations and national threats. During the meeting, the PM sought Ulema's support to maintain law and order during Muharram; appreciated MWM's efforts to maintain unity and recommendations for coherence and solidarity among citizens. SAPM Zulfiqar Bukhari and Saifullah Niazi of PTI and MWM leaders Syed Nasir Shirazi and Syed Asad Naqvi were also present. ("PM seeks ulema's support for religious harmony," Dawn, 29 August 2020)

FATF bills get another Parliament session
According to Dawn, post the Opposition-dominated Senate's rejection of two FATF-related bills, the Center is now moving to convene yet another joint Parliament sitting for the passing of the crucial legislation. The report claims that the Adviser to the PM on Parliamentary Affairs Babar Awan and National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser had a telephonic conversation to discuss the upcoming joint sitting's agenda to ensure smooth passing of the FATF-related legislations, crucial for Pakistan's exit from the "Grey-list". ("Govt plans another joint sitting of parliament for FATF bills passage," Dawn, 29 August 2020)

The FAO says that the risk of locust migration has subsided
The latest update from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) states that the risk of swarm migration to the India-Pakistan summer breeding area has nearly subsided. The update notes, "Good progress is being made against the first generation of hopper groups and bands that have formed mainly in Rajasthan of India and to a lesser degree in Tharparkar district in Sindh." In Pakistan, this has been the result of more than 1,000 teams, 750 vehicles and nearly 6,000 staff involved in the ground control operation. Further, the Minister for National Food Security while chairing a weekly meeting of the National Locust Control Centre stated that the NLCC teams were working in a coordinated way for the eradication of desert locust in Pakistan. (Amin Ahmed, "Risk of locust migration subsides," Dawn, 29 August 2020)

Pakistan could be the last country to harbour Polio
Based on the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) declared that Pakistan's epidemiological situation is extremely disappointing and worrying. It stated the continuation of the outbreak of poliovirus in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province's southern part and in Karachi and Quetta. IMB said, "If no mass vaccination activities take place, there will be many moreCOVIDo cases than were expected, pre-Covid-19, by the end of the year". Pointing out that even Africa had recently been declared polio-free, the report added that "There is every possibility that Pakistan will be the last place on Earth to harbour this terrible disease." ("Global health body portends poliovirus resurgence in Pakistan," Dawn, 29 August 2020)

The joint navy exercise conducted by the Pakistan Navy and Royal Navy 
The Pakistan Navy (PN) and Royal Navy (RN) UK, conducted bilateral Naval exercise WHITE STAR 2020 in North Arabian Sea and Passage Exercise in the Gulf of Aden. The main aim of the exercise was to enhance collaboration through mutual exchange of experience and to enhance interoperability between the two navies. Further, the exercises covered a range of naval operations encompassing anti-surface and anti-air warfare, manoeuvring and communication exercises to provide optimum training. In exercise WHITE STAR 2020 at North Arabian sea, Pakistan Navy Ships ZULFIQUAR and DEHSHAT, PN Aviation fixed and rotary aircraft and PAF JF-17 fighter participated with Royal Navy Ship HMS ARGYLL. In Passage exercise at the Gulf of Aden, Pakistan Navy Ship SAIF and Royal Navy Ship HMS ARGYLL participated while the ships were deployed for Maritime Security Operations. ("Pak Navy, Royal Navy conduct joint exercises," The News International, 29 August 2020)

ECONOMY 
Total debt and liabilities stand at 106.8 per cent of the GDP
Pakistan's total debt and liabilities in the percentage of GDP ratio has crossed the mark of 100 per cent and now stands at 106.8 per cent of GDP in June 2020, which is a surged of Rs44.5 trillion. This mark is compared to the total debt and liabilities of the 90s which was close to 100 per cent but now it had crossed this psychological mark and stands at 106.8 per cent of GDP in June. Further. the country's overall balance of payment position has also worsened despite the impressive achievement of the current account surplus by Prime Minister Imran Khan. (Mehtab Haider, "Pakistan's debt, liabilities stand at 106.8pc of GDP," The News International, 29 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
UN and UAE bodies to extend support for refugees and Pakistan women artisans
The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and NAMA Women Advancement Establishment of the United Arab Emirates have promised to work together to empower the marginalised Afghan refugees and Pakistani women through skill development in Quetta. The project will support the semi-skilled refugees and Pakistani women artisans who will have an opportunity to polish their carpet-weaving skills and improve their income-generating capacity. These women will not only be trained but also be given monthly stipends to support their family while they are working. Further, the project is also being supported by the IRTHI Contemporzan affiliate of NAMA. ("UN, UAE bodies promise support for refugees, Pakistani women artisans," Dawn, 29 August 2020)

On 24 August, a delegation from Afghan Taliban’s Qatar-based political office arrived has arrived for talks in Islamabad on the invitation of the foreign ministry. The delegation is led by Abdul Ghani Baradar will meet with FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi to discuss the Afghan peace process with the Pakistani leadership. This is a second visit of the Taliban’s political delegation to Pakistan; they had previously visited Islamabad in October 2019. (“FM Qureshi to meet Afghan Taliban delegation today,” The Nation, 25 August 2020)

Meeting Agenda
The delegation is to hold talks on issues hampering the start of the intra-Afghan dialogue for ending the 19-year-old conflict in Afghanistan. Further, as stated by Taliban political office spokesman Suhail Shaheen, the visiting delegation would discuss “recent developments in Afghanistan’s peace process, relaxation and facilitation of peoples’ movement and trade between the two neighbouring countries, issues related to the Afghan refugees in Pakistan and other related topics.”

Leading the delegation: Mullah Baradar
Mullah Baradar, the director of the political office and Taliban’s deputy emir responsible for political affairs. Baradar is said to have spent nearly eight years in the custody of Pakistani security agencies before he was set free in 2018 on the US request for facilitating the Afghan peace process.
Further, the delegations from Taliban’s political office seeks to visit other countries as well with the aim of “furthering positive relations” and “conveying views and stance to the world about the peace process.” (“Talks with visiting Taliban team today,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Statement from the Foreign Minister of Pakistan
FM Qureshi stated that that negotiation was “the only way forward” in Afghanistan saying, “The majority of Afghans believe the only way forward is through reconciliation, but the decision to reconcile has to be taken by Afghans themselves,”. Further stating, “This is for Afghans to reconcile, and our task is that of the facilitator,” adding “The main objective is to secure peace and the next phase should be the start of the intra-Afghan dialogue.” (“Foreign minister Qureshi to meet Afghan Taliban delegation today,” The News International, 25 August 2020)

What does this meeting imply? Messages from the media
From an editorial in the Nation argues that the meeting between the Afghan Taliban and Pakistan here at home will hopefully help in the efforts to find more common ground. However, the editorial further states that the situation remains stagnant as on hand the US and other countries pointing fingers at the state, with accusation labelling the country of being “safe havens.” On the other hand, Pakistan’s efforts to control any form of militant activity on its soil through border fencing is criticized as unjust adding that this perception must change. Further, the editorial notes that this meeting goes to show Pakistan’s willingness to end the conflict in our neighbouring country as soon as possible. (“Negotiations Continue,” The Nation, 25 August 2020)

However, for Afghanistan, reaching peace is doing to be a daunting task, with talks commencing the peace process is expected to belong and tough with little guarantee of a successful conclusion if the parties stick to their well-known positions. (Maleeha Lodhi, “Daunting path to Afghan peace,” Dawn, 24 August 2020)

Developments in Afghanistan
The Kabul government and the Taliban are deadlocked over the outstanding prisoner releases, with the former insisting that the Taliban release the 22 Afghan commandos who they hold captive while the Taliban demand the release of a final 320 Taliban prisoners held in Afghan jails. The release of the remaining prisoners was approved by a Loya Jirga, called by President Ashraf Ghani earlier this month. The council approved the immediate release of the prisoners, however, later the government announced the Taliban were still holding Afghan soldiers and thus halted the process. Further, Abdullah Abdullah has gone on to call for the completion of the prisoner exchange and for the immediate commencement of the intra-Afghan talks to put an end to the agony of a nation. How Pakistan could break this tension remains to be a question. 
 

Riyadh never ceased oil supply or demanded loan repayment, claims Qureshi
On 25 August, The News International’s Top Story was Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s statement in which he categorically denied tensions between Islamabad and Riyadh, while accusing the media of conjuring such speculations. The FM said “Saudi Arabia has neither asked Islamabad to return its loan nor has it suspended oil supply to Pakistan. The Kingdom has not changed its stance on Kashmir and we are on the same page as far as recognition of Israel is concerned”. Reporting to a journalist’s question regarding Riyadh demanding a loan repayment of $1 billion, Qureshi said "Your question is based on an assumption. These are speculations. No decision like that was taken." Regarding Saudi Arabia’s stance on Kashmir he said, “There is no ambiguity but absolute clarity. I am telling you this clearly, there is no change in Saudi Arabia’s stance on Kashmir. And OIC’s stance is before you; now we have to decide how we will take this forward”. (“Saudis neither stopped oil supply nor asked to return loans: Shah Mehmood Qureshi,”The News International, 25 August 2020) The FM rejected any breakdown in Pak-Saudi relations saying the ties were “people-centric” and “long-standing”. He also pointed out the commonality of the positions of Islamabad and Riyadh on the Kashmir and Palestine disputes respectively. (“FM rejects impression of rift in Pak-Saudi relations,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Context: The FM’s statement earlier
Saudi Arabia was displeased by FM Qureshi’s unusually sharp remarks to the Saudi-led Organisation of Islamic Countries. Qureshi warned OIC against procrastinating the Pakistan-requested OIC’s Foreign Ministers’ meeting (CFM) on Jammu and Kashmir. Qureshi reminded Riyadh of how Pakistan had skipped the Kuala-Lumpur summit led by Turkey and Malaysia on Saudi’s request. Qureshi said he fully understood his statement’s implications and added that he was “taking a position despite our (Pakistan’s) good ties with Saudi Arabia”. Islamabad has been pushing for the OIC CFM meeting on Kashmir since Indian government’s revocation of Article 370 on 5 August 2019. (“Qureshi asks OIC to stop dragging feet on Kashmir meeting,” Dawn, 6 August 2020) Following the diplomatic spat, Saudi Arabia froze the oil supply and credit facility to Pakistan. Further, on 10 August, the kingdom demanded a $1billion repayment of the $6.2billion package provided to Pakistan. Islamabad returned the amount by utilizing the $1billion from China’s deposits in the State Bank of Pakistan. Islamabad called the repayment an economic favour to the kingdom during the difficult times of the pandemic. ("Pakistan returns $1 bn to Riyadh", The News International, 8 August 2020)

COAS’ Saudi Visit
Following the diplomatic spat, on 16 August, the COAS and ISI chief commenced their Saudi visit. On 17 August, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Defence Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa discussed “matters of mutual interest including bilateral defence and security cooperation and regional security”. Following the meeting, Saudi’s Prince Khalid bin Salman, full younger brother of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman tweeted, “Met today with my brother, H.E. General Qamar Bajwa, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff. We discussed bilateral relations, military cooperation, and our common vision for preserving regional security.” ("Bajwa meets military leaders in Saudi Arabia," Dawn, 13 August 2020) Significantly, the COAS and ISI chief were unable to secure a meeting with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed Bin Salmaan.

Qureshi’s bravado lures Domestic Criticism
National Assembly Opposition leader and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shahbaz Sharif had strongly criticised the FM’s statements against Saudi and OIC by calling them "highly unfortunate and (an) irresponsible" diplomatic folly. Sharif tweeted "It flies in the face of history and Pakistan's trusted relationship with the Kingdom" and warned that PTI’s "cavalier" attitude would undermine Pakistan's core relations with friendly nations. ("Shahbaz assails Qureshi's remarks about Saudi Arabia," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

While Pakistani media houses echoed Pakistan's ruling elite’s frustration over the Kashmir issue, they were critical of the FM’s statements that irked Saudi Arabia and lamented frictions caused between the traditional allies due to Qureshi's remarks. They highlighted potential fallouts of a bilateral rift pronouncing the regional, political and financial dangers it would pose to Pakistan. For instance, an editorial in Dawn disapproved his blunt criticism and the Foreign Office's statement regarding clarity of Pakistan’s foreign policy goals. It acknowledged the swelling frustration among Pakistan's ruling elite and the geostrategic blocs in the Muslim world, but pointed out that no former government has been this critical of Saudi Arabia. Another editorial in The Express Tribune said: "While we have all the right to give precedence to our own national and diplomatic interests, nothing should annoy a friend like Saudi Arabia with which our bilateral ties spans our entire existence as a nation. We are sure the incumbent government realizes the importance of Pakistan's strategic relations with Saudi Arabia and knows how to proceed ahead." An opinion article by Umar Waqar and Adeela Naureen highlighted the importance of Pakistan's position in the OIC in the spirit of Islamic brotherhood and fraternity, with Saudi as the OIC's "Fountainhead". They reminded Pakistan of the historical and traditional nature of the bilateral relationship since Pakistan's birth in 1947; said Saudi's and Pakistan's constitutions were based on the Quran and Sunnah; and spoke of how the Kashmir problem has been a cornerstone of Pak-Saudi ties. ("Saudi-Pak relations are unique," The Nation, 12 August 2020)

“Chinese business houses should establish their regional offices in Pakistan,” says PM Imran Khan 
On 24 August, PM Imran Khan asked Chinese entrepreneurs to establish their regional offices in Pakistan while emphasising the need for more cooperation between China and Pakistan in all fields, reiterating “Strengthening of business-to-business ties of the people of the two countries is a foremost priority.” This statement was made at a meeting which was chaired by PM Imran Khan with a delegation of 10 leading Chinese companies undertaking business ventures in critical sectors, including energy, communication, agriculture, science and technology, financial sector and industry. (“Imran asks Chinese entrepreneurs to establish offices in Pakistan,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Representing China
Along with the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Mr Yao Jing, the delegation comprised representatives of Power Construction Corporation of China (Power China), China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), China Gezhouba (Group) Pakistan, China Three Gorges South Asia Investment Company Ltd, China Railway Group Limited, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Machinery Engineering Corporation and China Mobile Pakistan Limited. The delegation while expressing their gratitude stated their satisfaction over business-friendly policies of the present government, especially in improving the ease of doing business.

Quotable
Chinese ambassador stated, “Various reforms introduced at policy and implementation level have enhanced confidence of the Chinese business community and Pakistan is being looked as a major partner in development in the post Covid-19 environment.”

A common interest for Beijing and Islamabad to cooperate
An editorial in the Dawn while emphasising on the strengthening ties between the long-time allies’ states that Islamabad is following a strategy which aims to strengthen its ties with the dependable Chinese capital as well as exploring new reliable partners for joint ventures in the international community. Further, noting that the Pakistan-China relationship is a central pillar on which this policy is based. (“FM’s China visit,” Dawn, 23 August 2020)
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Banning armed groups
An editorial in the Dawn on 25 August has presented a disturbing picture on the presence of banned groups in Pakistan. With the inclusion of a new outfit called Khatam-ul-Ambia, the total number of such organisations has reached 77. According to sources in the government, the new outfit is an offshoot of Ansarul Hussain, a Shia set-up formed to fight against the Islamic State group. Ansarul Hussain was earlier listed in 2016. The editorial opines that the state’s failure to dismantle the structure has led to the increase in the number of banned groups despite banning a large number of them or keeping them under surveillance. It has also mentioned about the emergence of this set-up during the tenure of military dictator Gen Zia ul Haq when Pakistan was an important partner to the US and Saudi Arabia in tackling the Societ Union’s activities in Afghanistan.

However, the period also saw tensions between ethnic groups reaching heights as groups like Sipah-i-Sahaba, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and Sipah-i-Mohammad were established. This led to sectarian violence. The list also features banned Baloch and Sindhi armed groups. The editorial puts forth a narrative that Gen Pervez Musharraf had shut down the activities of many organisations in the post-9/11 scenario but failed to completely uproot them. Thus, they remain active even as they change names. It has suggested that strict measures have to be taken like convicting terror leaders, freezing bank accounts and denying the source of funding by seizing assets. (“Banning groups,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Troops visited by General Bajwa at Pakistan-Afghanistan border
Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa visited troops in the Dawatoi sector of North Waziristan tribal district at the Pakistan-Afghan border. There have been consolidation operations along the border to ensure effective area domination of some inaccessible pockets which have been used by terrorist groups as hideouts. Around 90 explosives were found in the operations and efforts have been taken to lay fences and strengthen illegal crossing at the border. Gen Bajwa was briefed on complementing border security/management measures. He had appreciated the operational performance of the forces and high state of morale and lauded the cooperation of the local populace in fighting terrorism. He said “We have to remain vigilant and steadfast to thwart hostile attempts to create chaos and reverse the gains of Operation Raddul Fasaad.” (“Bajwa visits troops at Pakistan-Afghan border,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Shahbaz Sharif criticizes Imran Khan’s government
PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif and his party leaders issued a white paper on the two-year performance of Imran Khan’s government describing it as part of an international conspiracy to dismantle the country’s institutions. In a press conference, Mr Sharif had stated that his party was against the recognition of Israel until the Palestinians got their rights back. The report titled, “Destruction of National Power: two-year performance of PTI government” had also covered the alleged wrongdoings and described the PTI leaders as corrupt and incompetent.

The opposition leader added that he would get in touch with Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari regarding a multiparty conference. Mr Sharif raised the issues of inflation and ‘false propaganda’. Former foreign minister Khwaja Asif said that the PTI government’s foreign policy was a big failure as it could not respond to India’s actions in Jammu and Kashmir as well as failing to maintain a balance in the Muslim world. He said “Pakistan has been left alone in the world. There is no response from Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) over our call, whereas if they improved relations with Iran and Afghanistan the western border would have been secure.” Ex-Prime Minister Abbasi criticized the government for raising the power tariffs by 30 per cent. (Kalbe Ali, “Shahbaz blasts PTI govt performance,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Two more FATF-related bills passed by National Assembly; Heated debate between members
The PTI government managed to get two more bills passed from the National Assembly, including the Amti-Money Laundering (Second Amendment) Bill. The other bills passed by the assembly were Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Waqf Properties Bill, Companies (Amendment) and the Limited Liability Partnership Bill. Many opposition members skipped the proceedings and attended a news conference. Speaker Asad Qaiser allowed the Opposition members only to speak on the bills at the time of moving the amendments which were rejected by the government. A major objection was the inclusion of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in the anti-money laundering bill. In the debate, the opposition was led by Khwaja Asif and Shah Khaqan Abbasi while the government had Law Minister Farogh Naseem and Advisor to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar. (Amir Wasim, “NA passes two more FATF-related bills,” Dawn, 25 August 2020)

Quoting some case of money laundering, Mr Akbar said that billions of rupees were found in the accounts of Mushtaq Cheeniwala and Manzoor TT. Earlier, the former Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf questioned as to why the black law was passed as it violated human rights as he claimed that the authority has been given to investigation agencies to arrest without a warrant being issued. Advisor on Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan said the government would not compromise on the legislation which involved the national security. (Muhammad Anis and Mumtaz Alvi, “NA, Senate pass many bills rejecting opposition amendments,” The News International, 25 August 2020) 

ON CPEC
China, aids to build an underground museum at Bhasha Dam, to preserve cultural relics
According to the analysis, during a meeting between the National Heritage and Culture Division Secretary Nausheen Javaid Amjad and Chinese Cultural Counselor Zhang Heqing in Islamabad, it was disclosed that China will aid in building an underground museum at Bhasha Dam to preserve cultural relics discovered.
Zhang Heqing said Beijing is willing to cooperate with Islamabad to conduct workshops on the subject. She also said, Chinese people are fond of the Gandhara civilization and mentioned about the exhibit of 19 antiquities in China. On the other hand, Nausheen Javaid Amjad said, this year is a mark of 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan and both sides have agreed to organize cultural events. (“China to help build museum at Bhasha dam”, The Express Tribune, 25 August 2020)

CPEC to boost Pakistan economy, says an analysis
As per the analysis, the Pakistan economy is estimated to fall into recession in the 2020 fiscal year, with a negative growth rate of over 4 per cent due to COVID-19. Despite pandemic, CPEC cooperation has proven to enhance, it's all-weather strategic cooperative partnership with China. It also states, that the Chinese Consulate General in Lahore, along with the Punjab government and the people, will continue facilitating for projects including the Industrial City. These projects give an all-round impetus to people’s livelihood and agriculture cooperation.

Recently, Pakistan’s Railway ML-I Refurbishment and Expansion Project was approved by the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) as well as The Karakoram Highway (KKH) Project Phase II was opened. The analysis also highlights the concern and support by the Punjab government in enabling Chinese companies with full confidence in investment and development. (“CPEC; a boost for economic recovery”, The Nation, 25 August 2020)

Pakistan's World View
The US reimposes sanction Iran including an arms embargo
According to the analysis,  US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo triggered a new 30-day countdown, to impose sanctions on Iran in which many UNSC member nations disagreed including the UK, France, Germany and Belgium alongside China, Russia, Vietnam, and 17 others. It also stated that President Trump may not succeed with any success, but his actions have further heightened tensions in the Middle East and in between Tehran and Washington.

In 2015, the security council resolution stated, no council member has proposed a draft resolution to extend sanctions relief on Iran, within 10 days of non-compliance complaint then the body’s president will do so within the remaining 20 days. The views of the states involved would be taken into consideration before any decision on sanctions. (“US sanctions and Iran”, The News International, 25 August 2020)

Saleem Safi says Islamabad needs friends not foe in this critical time 
The analysis looked in two major challenges faced by Pakistan, first, over Kashmir issue, where the world is not listening to Pakistan and second, the economic crisis in Pakistan. Its further states, “Islamabad is in a need of friends not foes” and the country should consider its own challenges saying, “it is not a wise stance by Pakistan’s religious parties, to be angry with the UAE, for its independent decision. (“Israel, Pakistan and the Muslim World”, The News International, 25 August 2020)

New twist in the Middle East
An opinion put forth by Dr Naazir Mahmood in The News International highlights the challenges of a deal between UAE and Israel for countries like Iran, Turkey and Pakistan. The author has been critical of the possible motives behind the deal. He has highlighted that unlike Iran which has opposed any decision to compromise with Israel, Pakistan faces hurdles from these dynamics. After mentioning the outcome of the deal, the author states that Iran perceives it to be an alliance formation aimed at it. He also brings out the angle of US presidential elections where President Donald Trump is finding ways to secure the support of the Jewish lobby in the country to swing the results in his favour. Mr Mahmood mentions the three reasons where first, Trump’s withdrawal from JCPOA has made Saudi Arabia and UAE happy. Second reason is related to the dependence of the royal families of Saudi Arabia and the third reason is that the two Arab countries want to gain financial and military benefits from Israel. The author has criticised Turkey’s remarks on UAE’s stance as “betrayal” as the former has formal diplomatic ties with Israel. (Dr Naazir Mahmood, “New turn in the Middle East”, The News International, 25 August 2020)

Pakistan's foreign ministry rejects Indian statements regarding J&K
On 23 August, Pakistan’s Foreign Office “strongly rejected” the Indian statement on the Kashmir issue, a reaction to the recent China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. The FO’s spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri called Indian Ministry of External Affairs’ spokesperson Anurag Srivastava’s comments “unwarranted and irresponsible”.

According to Mr Chaudhri, India’s contentions regarding “Jammu and Kashmir being the so-called ‘integral and inalienable part’ of India and an ‘internal affair’ are a laughable fiction, totally contrary to historical and legal facts and in violation of the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions”. He declared Indian claims to Jammu and Kashmir baseless. The statement called for an immediate end of India’s “illegal and forcible occupation of IIOJK” and an impartial plebiscite for the Kashmiris to ensure their right to self-determination. The FO “categorically rejected” India’s “malicious propaganda” against CPEC, calling it another desperate Indian attempt to deceive the international community. FO’s statement said “India has no locus standi on the issue — historical, legal or moral. The regurgitation of false claims by India can neither change facts nor divert attention from India’s state-terrorism in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and its egregious violations of human rights of the Kashmiri people”.

Previously, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs’ spokesperson Mr Srivastava had said “we (India) categorically reject the reference to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in the joint press release of the Second Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue”. He upheld that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir was an inalienable and integral part of India and asked the parties concerned to “not interfere in matters that are internal affairs of India”. The spokesperson said that India strongly opposed the actions by other countries to alter the status quo in PoK and “call(ed) on the parties concerned to cease such actions”. “We also reiterate our consistent position on the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. India has repeatedly conveyed its concerns to both China and to Pakistan on the projects in so-called CPEC, which are in the territory of India that has been illegally occupied by Pakistan”, Mr Srivastava added.

China-Pakistan Statement on J&K
Mr Srivastava’s statement was following the second round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Hainan, China. The two countries had issued a joint communique declaring their decision to act “collectively” to protect mutual interests by adopting “measures to safeguard their common interests and promote peace, prosperity and development in the region”. China also reaffirmed its support for the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue “through the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements” and rejected India’s revocation of article 370. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi had led their respective sides in the meeting. The FMs had discussed the 10th meeting of the Joint Cooperation Committee; agreed to continue “firm support on issues concerning each other’s core national interests”; welcomed global community to join the CPEC project “on the basis of consensus to achieve shared development”. (“Pakistan rejects India’s outburst on Jammu, Kashmir,Dawn, 24 August 2020)

Siachen is ours, writes a former Brigadier from Pakistan military, and provides four reasons
In a commentary published by the Nation, Masud Ahmad Khan a retired Pakistan Army Brigadier states that the Siachen Glacier belongs to Pakistan for four reasons.

First, Pakistan has controlled and administered this region since 1947. According to the Indian Line of Control (LoC), which extends northward beyond NJ 9842, along the Saltoro Range and up to Sia Kangri, the entire Siachen Glacier belongs to India. However, Pakistan stands with its boundary alignment beyond NJ 9842 eastward, up to the Karakoram Pass which has been controlled and administered by Pakistan since 1947, with both India and the international community recognising its de facto control in the area.

Second, trekking expeditions take places through Pakistan. Many mountaineering, trekking and hiking expeditions to the Siachen Glacier were authorised by Pakistan.

Third, maps depicting that Siachen belongs to Pakistan. Atlases produced in the US and UK by National Geographic and Encyclopaedia Britannica (1979) reflected Pakistan’s version of the Line of Control (LoC). Further, other maps produced by American Alpine Journal and Hugh Swift’s Classic Trekkers Guide to the Himalaya and the Karakoram also showed the same.

Fourth, other publications depicting that Siachen belongs to Pakistan. Other books such as Martin A Sugarman’s War Above Clouds, notes that Sir Owen Dixon, the first UN representative in Pakistan and India mentioned that the Siachen Glacier falls within the Northern Areas (Gilgit-Baltistan) of Pakistan in his report to the Security Council. In another, Ravi Rikhye’s The Fourth Round, included a map which placed Siachen Glacier inside Pakistani territory. Further, The Western Front, published in India in 1984 by Lt Gen K.P Candeth (R), also includes several maps that support Pakistan’s claims as well. (Masud Ahmad Khan, “Siachen is ours,” The Nation, 24 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
PM Imran Khan declared ‘Man of the Year’ in the Muslim world
PM Imran Khan has been declared as the ‘Man of the Year’ in the Muslim world by a Jordan-based publication. The publication in its 11th annual issue, ‘The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims’ has selected PM Khan because of his various initiatives both before and after becoming prime minister, further, the publication stated, “What is particularly to his credit is that upon taking office in August 2018, Khan made it quite clear that one of his top priorities was to work for a lasting peace with India.” The publication also spoke about the PM’s various other achievements from cricket to politics. Further, the publication has declared US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib as the ‘Woman of the Year’ stating that she is the first Palestinian-American woman and joint first Muslim woman to be elected to the American Congress as member of the House of Representatives. (Kashif Abbasi, “Imran declared ‘Man of the Year’ among Muslims,” Dawn, 24 August 2020)

Khatam-Ul-Ambia another militant organisation banned by the government 
The government has banned another militant organisation, Khatam-Ul-Ambia, which is said to be an offshoot of Ansarul Hussain that was banned in late 2016 for its alleged involvement in recruiting the youth from the Shia community to fight the militant Islamic State (IS). This new addition makes it a total of 77 banned organisations since the process began in 2001 when Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and Sipah-i-Mohammad Pakistan were outlawed. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Another militant organisation banned,” Dawn, 24 August 2020)

Shibli Faraz tweeted draft proposal by the opposition, termed it as “the PML-N limited”
23 August, Shibli Faraz Federal Minister for Information posted draft proposal by the opposition as “the PML-N limited”, for bringing changes to the country’s accountability laws. He termed them as a “proof” of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s claims. According to him, the opposition is seeking an end, to cases against leadership, stating “these are the documents through which the opposition sought an NRO”. He also posted, the amendment to Section25 which was suggested by the opposition. Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister also the head of Special Parliamentary Committee on Legislative Business, already disclosed the details opposing proposal during National Assembly, ‘declaring that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government had rejected them’.

On a similar note, the Opposition, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) refused the claims, stating “changes in the accountability laws had come under discussion at a parliamentary committee constituted by National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser on the legislative business”. National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) was issued by Former military dictator Gen Pervez Musharraf after agreement with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), ‘to end all politically motivated cases against the politicians’ in 2007. (“Opposition tried to exploit govt over FATF legislation: Shibli”, Dawn, 24 August 2020)

Navy inducts its first Type-054 Class Frigate built by China into its fleet
On 23 August, the Pakistan Navy announced that it has inducted its first Type-054 Class Frigate into its fleet which was built in China. The launching ceremony was held at the Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard Shanghai, China. The statement issued by the navy states, “The Type-054 Class, fitted with the latest surface, subsurface, anti-air weapons, combat management system and sensors will be one of the technologically advanced surface platforms of Pakistan Navy Fleet,” adding that “these ships will significantly contribute to peace and security in Pakistan’s area of responsibility.”(Muhammad Anis, “Pakistan inducts Chinese built warship into its fleet,” The News International, 24 August 2020) Further, Commodore Azfar Humayun (Chief Naval Overseer, China) the chief guest for the launch termed this as “new chapter in Pakistan-China's defence relationship.” (Kashif Abbasi, “Pakistan Navy frigate launching ceremony held in China,” Dawn, 24 August 2020)

CPEC
Progress under the CPEC
The project which was valued at $46 billion is now worth $62 billion. The analysis states, since the PTI government came into power CPEC has been put on the backburner. As the government website of CPEC is termed both impressive and instructive at the same time. Impressive because ‘it shows a massive blueprint of planning and development for a struggling country’ and Instructive, because ‘one learns that only the highest level of commitment can make the projects see its benefits.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority Chairman Lt-Gen (r) Asim Saleem Bajwa, assured the people saying, that the government would ensure that CPEC brings dividends to the people as it enters its second phase. And will look into the neglected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan. (“CPEC: where do we stand?”, The News International, 24 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
On Afghanistan, Maleeha Lodhi states the two agenda for the future negotiations, as the peace process is expected to be long and tough with little successful conclusion 
According to Maleeha Lodhi, says the process is not only delayed but, there is a long road ahead for parties to reach a semblance of the agreement for the country’s future after the negotiations begin’. She highlights the delay by the Afghan government in release of the prisoner, as a deliberate attempt until the US presidential election. As if Joe Biden wins, ‘he may persuade administration for a change course or slow down the US military withdrawal from the country’. She also said, it presupposes that Biden would reverse the course on a process after Washington’s recent announcement, to decrease the troops to less than 5,000. And this may leave Ghani’s government in a weaker position.

The two big aims for future negotiation, first a framework agreement for which the Afghan government has already set a number of pre-negotiations ‘red lines’ for the talks such as demand for a ‘humanitarian’ ceasefire during or before the talks, no compromise on the democratic and human rights ‘gains’ made in the past decades, and ‘respect’ for the Republic’s constitution. Second, ‘comprehensive and permanent ceasefire’. On which Taliban representative said, “the historical experience of similar negotiations elsewhere indicate that a ceasefire comes after and not before agreement on other substantive issues”. (“Daunting path to Afghan peace”, Dawn, 24 August 2020)

An opinion says to pursue an independent foreign policy Pakistan needs to be economically strong, independent and politically stable 
An opinion in the Express Tribune critical of the PTI government’s foreign policy thus far argues that although many have spoken about “achievements” the many failures and hiccups have been left out. On the Kashmir debates in UNSC, the author states that although the PTI government has taken credit the fact of the matter is that the issue only came into the limelight because of PM Modi’s actions in the region. Further, adding with the current dynamics of the situation the current government seems to have no clear plan. On the afghan process, Pakistan has played a crucial role, however, PM Imran Khan has not been the only one to advocate for a political solution the author notes, adding that this stance has been the case for many former governments as well. Further, the author also highlights the recent discord in ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. However, despite these challenges, ever-growing ties with China continues to soar. The author concludes by stating that Pakistan needs to be economically strong, independent and politically stable if it wants to pursue an independent foreign policy. (Kamran Yousaf, “Two years of PTI’s foreign policy,” Dawn, 24 August 2020)

Taliban arrive Pakistan for talks 
On 23 August, A delegation from the Afghan Taliban has arrived in Pakistan for the ongoing peace process with the Pakistani leadership.  Zahid Hafeez Chaudhry Foreign Office Spokesperson said, the “delegation has been invited to Pakistan to discuss the way forward in the Afghan peace process”. In a series of tweet, Suhail Shaheen Taliban spokesman said, “A high-level Islamic Emirate [Taliban] delegation led by deputy political chief, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, has left for Pakistan upon the invitation of the country’s Foreign Ministry to discuss the latest on the peace process, state of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, [cross-border] travel of people, and trade between the two neighbors,”

A senior official of Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said, Taliban delegation is expected to meet with “Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership” on 24 August. Foreign Office also made a statement on Indian spokesperson joint statement over the Second Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. The office said, “Indian Ministry of External Affairs contentions about Jammu and Kashmir being the so-called 'integral and inalienable part' of India and an ‘internal affair’ are a laughable fiction, totally contrary to historical and legal facts and in violation of the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions". (“Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s invitation: Taliban arrive in Pakistan for talks”, The News International, 24 August 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Trump team’s anti-Iran rhetoric is “disastrous for world peace”, says Editorial
A Dawn editorial calls Trump administration’s Iran-policy “disastrous”. The article identifies USA’s hostile and confrontational rhetoric as means “to lure Tehran into the battlefield”. The Editorial while accusing Trump of attempting to spark an armed confrontation with Iran in the last few months, cites the 21 August development when 13 out of 15 UNSC members opposed USA’s move to re-impose crippling sanctions against Iran. As US had left the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, the country had no legal standing to make such a move against Tehran. The article opines that it is unclear whether the UNSC members or the Europeans are “siding with the ayatollahs” as US alleges; war will not be beneficial for the Middle East; and says the Trump team’s anti-Iran maneuvers for domestic political mileage will be disastrous for global peace. (“Iran sanctions threat,” Dawn, 24 August 2020)

General Mirza Aslam Beg writes about the changing dynamics of the Middle East
An opinion article by Gen (r) Mirza Aslam Beg says that when post the assassination of General Qasim Solemani of Iran, American and Israeli forces allied to penalize Iran, Iran adopted ‘strategy of deterrence’ (forecasting an existential threat to Israel) by deploying “free flight rockets, missiles and drones from several directions to degrade the iron-dome air defense system of Israel” and suicide bombers to cause fear and panic. To counter this the US-Israeli bloc adopted the ‘Stealth Strategy’. The article opines that the Abraham accord – the UAE-Israeli deal – ruptures “decades of Arab unity” and reverses the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002’s diplomatic offensive. The General says that Arabs must not make peace with Israel “at the cost of Palestinian blood”. (“The changing dynamics of the Iran-Israel conflict,” The Nation, 24 August 2020)

On 21 August, during the second round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Hainan, Pakistan and China issued a joint statement saying they would act “collectively” by adopting “measures to safeguard their common interests and promote peace, prosperity and development in the region”. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi represented their respective sides at Hainan in which regional situation, international developments, bilateral ties and the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic were discussed. The joint communiqué opined that China-Pak cooperation would be beneficial for regional and international peace and stability. The statement said, “Both sides underlined that a peaceful, stable, cooperative and prosperous South Asia is in common interest of all parties. Parties need to settle disputes and issues in the region through dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual respect”. Additionally, Beijing reaffirmed support for the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue. (“Pakistan, China vow to protect common interests,” Dawn, 22 August 2020)

Xi Jinping propose "China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future"
Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed his country’s readiness to work with Islamabad to promote regional cooperation and further “China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future” and to jointly promote cooperation among regional countries. In a letter addressed to Pakistan’s President Dr Arif Alvi, President Xi said both the countries were working towards maintaining the “momentum of peace and development in the region”. Xi reiterated the significance of CPEC, as a landmark project of BRI to further the “China-Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” and for the building of a closer “China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future”. The Premier added that solidarity, mutual support and cooperation were the only way to defeat Covid-19. (“Xi moots idea of community of shared future with Pakistan,” Dawn, 22 August 2020)

Another $1 billion for Pakistan
According to The News, Beijing has allowed Pakistan to utilise $1 billion that China had deposited in the State Bank of Pakistan for financing budgetary support. This comes in the wake of Saudi Arabia freezing the loan facility to Pakistan. With China’s help Pakistan is said to minimize “at least Rs165 to Rs169 billion requirements” to balance its budget deficit. The News quoted an official saying that “China has come forward to bridge this gap. Beijing provided additional facility by allowing utilisation of $1 billion equivalent in rupee term for financing the budgetary requirements”. Note, China is SBP’s top depositor for bettering Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. Presently, Pakistan’s total foreign exchange reserves are recorded at $19.6 billion as of 13 August 2020 ($12.6 billion held by SPB and $7.01 by commercial banks). This is despite having made repayments of over $151 million on external loan obligations. (“China allows Pakistan to use its $1b SBP deposit for budgetary support,” The News International, 22 August 2020)

ON CPEC, an analysis calls for a consensus
According to the analysis, the post-COVID-19 economic recovery in Pakistan looks forward to CPEC investment. As, these Chinese investments account for the creation of over 70000 jobs, a revived supply chain, Chinese scholarship, and a grant for around $250 million for Gwadar International airport. It also highlights that Pakistan must “develop and sharpen its foreign policy prism”. As Pakistan has assured, CPEC as its core interest with Kashmir and nuclear program.

The consensus with second JCM on CPEC plays a vital role in Pakistan's future foreign policy and provides more strategic clarity in its external engagement. The analysis also suggested, “It is time that a new ‘CPEC-plus’ bi-partisan national consensus emerges in Pakistan that includes economic development, counterterrorism, and foreign policy”. (“Time for CPEC consensus”, The News International, 22 August 2020)
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Another journalist missing
On 22 August, Abid Saqi, Vice-Chairman, Pakistan Bar Council (PBC), urged the government and other states institutions to ensure immediate recovery and release of Mudassar Mehmood Narru, for his safe return back to his home. Narru a known Journalist and human rights activist has been missing since 2018 after he was abducted from Kaghan where he had gone on vacation with his wife and six-month-old son. Further, the vice-chairman stated that this is a matter of great disappointment, for since the beginning this case has been given proper attention with initially the police refused to register the FIR of his abduction and later despite the filing of a petition with the Commission for the Enquiry on Enforced Disappearances in 2018, the matter remains under investigation without any concrete result. (“PBC demands recovery of abducted journalist,” The News International, 22 August 2020)

More restrictions on terrorists
The federal government has listed 88 leaders and members of various terrorist groups, in accordance with the new list issued by the UNSC. The Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf government had issued two notifications on 18 August, announcing sanctions against main leaders from terrorist groups like Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Taliban, Daesh, Haqqani Network and many more. The notification mentions the seizure of all movable and immovable properties of these groups and individuals. It includes freezing bank accounts, travelling abroad, purchasing arms etc. The Foreign Office had said that it is the UNSC Taliban Sanctions Committee that deals with sanctions on Taliban. The committee has not announced any changes in the sanctions list so far. (“Pakistan imposes more restrictions on terrorists,” The News International, 22 August 2020)

Samsung plans to set up smartphone assembly in Pakistan
Minister for Industries and Productions after meeting with the Samsung Pakistan managing director and the chief executive officer has stated that the company is actively considering setting up an assembly plant in the country. Further, the minister said that the company appreciated the government’s policies that have been put on place. In June, the cabinet had approved the Mobile Device Manufacturing Policy to promote indigenisation through local and foreign direct investment as well as joint ventures. This policy is aimed at reducing mobile prices in the country through localisation and increase exports by offering tax breaks and incentives. (“Samsung to set up smartphone assembly in Pakistan,” Dawn, 22 August 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
If the Intra-Afghan dialogue fails the country might turn into living hell 
According to the analysis, intra-Afghan dialogue can be processed under three considerations. First, by persuading stakeholders to come on a political platform, to engage with each other and discuss the multifarious issues. Second, by assuring all participants that they will be treated on a par with other stakeholders and their grievances will be addressed. Third, to convince all with the decision and implement it faithfully.

This dialogue put forward four key issues, first, what kind of system of governance should be put in place in Afghanistan? Second, should it be a highly centralized government or should be a well-woven mosaic of decentralization of power crafted? Third, what should be the quantum of autonomy granted to the subunits? And lastly, should it be a unitary system of government or a federal system? The analysis also highlights, that “these talks must succeed, because if they failed, 'poverty, violence, social upheaval, and political instability' will quickly turn the country into a living hell. (“Intra-Afghan dialogue”, The Express Tribune, 22 August 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Divergences in the Arab world’s Israel policy
An opinion written by Irfan Husain in the Dawn has been critical about the Arab world’s approach to Israel and the Palestinian issue. Although there have been demonstrations condemning Israel’s actions over the years, the response was tepid. The author states that the youth in the Middle East have started losing interest over the Palestinian cause and have shown greater for their own education and employment. Another factor for this loss of interest among few Arab states has been Iran’s use of proxies across the region and its determination to develop nuclear weapons. He adds that the recent recognition of Israel by UAE has been driven by the evolving American policy towards the Middle East.

Mr Husain acknowledged that Saudi Arabia has maintained a distance from recognising Israel but it stands time-tested as the Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman is likely to reverse this decision once taking full control over the kingdom. The author raises concern over Israeli settlements that have expanded over the years. He puts forth a question on what does recognition really imply as countries like Turkey have had an embassy in Israel for decades, despite Erdogan’s remarks on the UAE initiative. (Irfan Husain, “The Celestial Dance,” Dawn, 22 August 2020)
 

In Focus
Another trouble in Karachi, as the government creates a new district, Opposition condemns it as a political and racial move

Sindh cabinet establishes new district in Karachi; Opposition disapproves
On 20 August, the Sindh cabinet, chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, approved the establishment of the seventh district in Karachi through the bifurcation of the existing district West. The decision caused strong political reactions and could influence the upcoming local government elections. The cabinet also authorized the local government minister to appoint interim administrators for local councils as the term of local bodies in Sindh would end on 29 August 2020. All provincial advisers, ministers, and Sindh chief secretary were in attendance. The Cabinet also looked into the matters of issue of domiciles and Permanent Resident Certificate (PRCs), approved the amendments related to the FATF-legislations, addressed the issues of wheat import and approved a Rs1.272 billion grant for the District Headquarter Hospital, Badin. (“Sindh cabinet stirs yet another controversy: 7th district Keamari established in Karachi,” The News International, 21 August 2020)

The new Keamari district
The vast expanse of the district West that has the highest population of 3,914,757 and comprises of seven sub-divisions (Baldia, Orangi, Manghopir, SITE, Harbour, Mominabad and Maripur), 23 Dehs and nine Tapas. According to The News International, the cabinet was also told the need for better administration of the district West for the greater convenience of the public. The provincial cabinet approved the creation of the district of Keamari with a population of 1,833,864 and four sub-divisions (SITE, Harbour, Baldia and Maripur) three circles, 11 dehs and five Tapas. The new district has “visible pockets of PPP strongholds”.CM Shah pointing out the peculiarity of the names of districts of Karachi such as South, East, West, Central and so on, called for the rechristening of these districts. He suggested Nazimabad in place of Central and Karachi in place of South. The CM directed the preparation of a comprehensive proposal to create more districts in Sindh to the Board of Revenue. The principle being the bifurcation of expansive districts in two for greater ease and convenience of the people. He pointed out that Khairpur was one such district.

Opposition to the new district
Meanwhile, criticisms are rife. Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf, and Pak Sarzameen Party have been vociferous in criticizing PPP’s decision to bifurcate the city on ethnic lines and said it would undermine the much-necessary development. MQM “strongly condemned” the creation of Keamari district on political and racial grounds and said it reflected PPP’s racist mindset. Mayor Karachi Waseem Akhtar criticized the decision terming it suffering from confusion. He said “The seventh district would bring destruction to the city. If the new district can be formed in Karachi, a new province can also be made in Sindh which is duly constitutional.” He added that they would move the court to stop PPP’s decision. PTI warned that it would cause street protests. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Karachi became the major stakeholder in the 2018 elections with 14 National and provincial assembly seats from Karachi. PTI President and Member Sindh Assembly Khurram Sher Zaman asked: “When the PPP could not perform in these two districts, what would they achieve with this new district change?” (“Political parties reject new district on ethnic lines,” The News International, 21 August 2020)
 
Pak Sarzameen Party’s Mustafa Kamal said the party would hold a protest against the bifurcation outside Karachi Press Club. He accused the PPP of tearing Karachi into pieces instead of winning hearts through service. He said "The ethnic division of Karachi is a serious concern for Pakistan's national security and we have already suffered most at the hands of such forces in the recent past with aggravated losses. Karachi is a metropolitan city inhabited by millions from every ethnic group which cannot be divided on linguistic grounds." Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi Hafiz Naim Ur Rehman said the addition of the 7th district in Karachi will not solve Karachi’s problems.

After two years of the PTI government, the President says all institutions are on the same page. (Image Source: Dawn)

President Alvi lauds PTI govt’s performance in all the sectors; but the opposition does not agree

On 20 August, President Dr Arif Alvi while addressing a joint sitting of parliament gave full credit to the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI)-led coalition government in all sectors, including economy, health, education and foreign policy, and especially praised PM Imran Khan for his approach in handling the Covid-19 pandemic.

All praises for the PTI administration 
On COVID-19: While talking about the pandemic, President Alvi said, “I commend the prime minister and the government for standing by their COVID-19 response despite criticism.” Adding that the world was recognising the government’s response to the pandemic. Further, praising the government who “with a vision to save the poor from dying”, adopted the policy of smart lockdown and worked opposite to what the other countries had done.

On the Economy: while commenting in the economy, President Alvi stated, “Our ratings by Moody’s and Fitch have improved, showing us that they think the country’s situation looks good,” adding, “This shows that the government’s policies are working, and had the coronavirus not emerged, it would have managed to take it to new heights.” Further, he pointed out that the country had also improved its ranking by 28 places in ‘Ease of Doing Business’.

On Foreign Policy: while observing the country’s foreign policy agenda, President Alvi stated that the government put the country’s policy in the right direction considering the challenging international and regional scenario. Further, he commended PM Imran Khan on his several statements on Palestine, Kashmir and its role in the Afghan Talks. Further, he praised parliament for helping the government pass the FATF related bills, saying “this is what a parliament is supposed to do.” (Amir Wasim, “Alvi gives full marks to govt in all sectors,” Dawn, 21 August 2020)

More optimism from the President 
President Alvi stated, “All institutions of Pakistan including Pakistan Army, government, media and judiciary are on the same page,” adding “Our state institutions are in unison and pursuing the same vision of overcoming challenges confronting the country.” He also stated that said that the country is at a tipping point, stating, “From here we can achieve great heights which have not been seen by this country in its history.”

Further, while thanking Turkey, Iran, Malaysia, China and Azerbaijan for their continuous support for Kashmir cause, he said that the bonding between these countries and Pakistan is getting stronger. He also mentioned strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia stating, “we are very grateful to our brotherly Islamic country for this.” (Asim Yasin, Muhammad Anis, ‘Nation and institutions one against corruption’, The News International, 21 August 2020)

“Pack of lies”: Opposition stages a walkout amid noisy protests 
A walkout was staged by members of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) and Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) soon after Speaker Asad Qaiser formally invited the president to the dais for the speech while members from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had only stayed in the house for a few minutes. After which they hurled anti-government slogans, before going out to address a news conference outside the Parliament House criticising the government for convening the joint session on less than 24-hour notice.

While addressing the press conference, PPP leader Raja Pervez Ashraf said that the people of Pakistan were being “duped” adding, “Everything being said was based on lies, Pakistan is facing difficulties and the people are helpless.”

Further, the PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and former president Asif Ali Zardari also skipped the joint sitting along with Chief of Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa who usually watches the proceeding from the official gallery was also absent. (“President Alvi recounts PTI's accomplishments in address to parliament, opposition walks out,” Dawn, 21 August 2020)

In Brief INTERNAL Immunization campaign resumed after six months of lockdown According to the analysis, after the six months, the immunization campaign has resumed once again with reports on the manhandling of polio workers in Bhawalnagar and Faisalabad resurfacing. In three separate areas in Bhawalnagar, families refuse to get their children vaccinated, threaten vaccinator, and also harassed female health workers. Similarly, in Faisalabad it was reported, a couple thrashed female polio workers. Since 2019, Polio eradication efforts have witnessed a setback in Pakistan. During the lockdown (January and July), it is noted that around 40 million children in the country missed vaccinations while around 60 were diagnosed with the wild poliovirus. (“The polio battle”, Dawn, 21 August 2020) Feminism in Pakistan An opinion on feminism in Pakistan was written by Zafar Aziz Chaudhry, a former member of the Provincial Civil Service in The Daily Times. It talks about the prevalence of feminist movements in the country and their successes amid challenges from ultra-conservative elements. Mr Chaudhry argues that Islam had made both genders spiritually equal, although both had their respective roles to perform to raise their families. He talks about how women like Begum Ra’na Liaqat Ali Khan and Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah played a major role to uplift the poor and destitute women in Pakistan after independence. However, over the decades, Pakistan is now ranked third-worst country on the Gender Parity Index of the World Economic Forum (WEF). The literacy of women is so low that more than five million primary school girls do not go to school. The IMF has stated that bridging the gender gap could boost Pakistan’s GDP by 30 per cent. The author mentions the ‘The Aurat March’, a movement that started a practical programme of conducting rallies in all major cities on International Women’s Day. They were subjected to attacks by right-wing groups and clerics from Lal Masjid. Mr Chaudhry mentions about the two phases of empowering women in Pakistan in the form of 1961 Muslim Family Laws and later the Hadood Ordnance introduced by General Zia ul Haq. However, the strict interpretations were criticized by feminist groups who sought for a liberal modernist version. The author has praised Benazir Bhutto for attempting to bring some reforms like the founding of all-women police stations and appointment of female judges but many of them were not realised. He explains about the differences in feminist groups in Pakistan where one section seeks the recognition of LGBTQ rights while the other section believes that feminism should be based on rights sanctioned by Sura Nisa of the Holy Quran. (Zafar Aziz Chaudhry, “Feminism in Pakistan,” Daily Times, 21 August 2020) ECONOMY Pakistan seeks assistance from World Bank on pension reforms Pakistan had requested the World Bank’s assistance in reforming the country’s pension system on 19 August. A statement was issued for the same after Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, advisor to the Prime Minister on finance and revenue met Najy Benhassine, the Country Director of the World Bank in Pakistan. The pension obligations for the public sector are around one trillion rupees for the current financial year. Mr Shaikh had emphasized on the reforms undertaken by the government to tackle the balance of payment crisis in the financial year 2018/2019 and bring stability in the economy. He spoke about the impact of Covid-19 pandemic that has slowed down the progress. Mr Benhassine welcomed the government’s strong response during the pandemic and stated the World Bank’s support to the emergency response with projects around half a billion dollars to strengthen the public health preparedness. (“Pakistan seeks World Bank technical help on pension reforms,” The News International, 21 August 2020) EXTERNAL Foreign Office Spokes­man Zahid Chaudhri says committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia On 20 August, Zahid Chaudhri Foreign Office Spokes­man said, “Pakistan remains committed to the unity of Muslim Ummah and has always worked towards that end and will continue its efforts to keep the Muslim Ummah united”. It further reaffirmed Pakistan commitment toward the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and recalled Pakistan's contribution to Kashmir's cause. He also highlighted, on Palestine “there was “no change in Pakistan’s principled position” and repeated Pakistan’s longstanding position on the dispute to dispel the impression created by an earlier vaguely worded statement on the UAE-US-Israel agreement on normalization of ties”. Aisha Farooqui, the outgoing FO spokespersons defended Qureshi’s earlier statement on OIC, saying “it was a reflection of people’s aspirations and expectations from the OIC to raise the Kashmir issue internationally”. (“FO hails OIC contribution to Kashmir cause”, Dawn, 21 August 2020) FM Qureshi in China to attend the second meeting on China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue On 20 August, FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi arrived in Hainan province, China to attend the second meeting of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. The meeting will focus on cooperation on COVID-19, bilateral relations, and regional and international issues. The first dialogue between Pakistan and China was held last year in March. China’s foreign ministry spokesperson said these dialogues would help the two to enhance their strategic mutual trust and coordinate international and regional affairs. He also mentioned this dialogue mechanism is a platform for the two to cooperate in various fields. (“Qureshi arrives in China to attend strategic dialogue”, The News International, 21 August 2020) In a virtual conference, JCM pledged to work and safeguard the political environment for CPEC development On 20 August, the International Depart­ment of Communist Party of China (CPC) in collaboration with the Pakistan-China Ins­ti­tute (PCI) organised Joint Consultation Mechan­ism (JCM) on the theme of ‘Working Together to Pro­mote Economic Develop­ment and Improve People’s Lives Through High-Qua­lity CPEC Cooperation’. The online session was attended by Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani and Chinese Min­is­ter of the International Department of CPC Song Tao. The JCM passed a joint statement, saying “slander on and disturbance in CPEC development by external forces” and pledged to “shape and safeguard the enabling political environment and favourable public opinion for CPEC development”. Nine other Pakistani Political parties participated in the virtual consultation. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Yao Jing said, “the resilient nature of Pakistan-China friendship and CPEC could be gauged from the fact that it survived even the Covid-19 pandemic and became stronger”. (“Parties vows to ensure CPEC progress, guard it against threats”, Dawn, 21 August 2020) PAKISTAN’S GLOBAL VIEW The “Abraham accord” The opinion written by Ikram Sehgal on the Abraham Accord for Daily Times gives a comprehensive picture of the deal between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and highlights the issues regarding it. Mr Sehgal brings forth the contents of the agreement which focuses on establishing normal relations between Israel and UAE in areas like business relations, tourism, direct flights, scientific cooperation and full diplomatic ties at the ambassadorial level. However, officials from the UAE have mentioned that the talks will start in the ensuing weeks to implement this. One of the important highlights of this accord is the enhanced security cooperation against regional threats from Iran and its proxies. The author talks about the criticisms coming from countries like Turkey which puts out an ambiguous picture as Turkey is the only non-Arab Muslim nation with full diplomatic relations with Israel. He highlights the problems arising from nationalism in Israel which took inspiration from history where the idea of a Jewish state was put forth by Theodore Herzl and the influence of British decades later to allow the settlement of Jews. However, the author believes that the accord should worry Pakistan as the security component of the agreement is strongly ‘anti-Iran’ even if the country is not mentioned. With speculations arising from a possible thaw between Israel and Saudi Arabia, Pakistan with a sizable Shia population would have to be cautious while balancing between Iran and Saudi Arabia. (Ikram Sehgal, “The “Abraham accord”,” Daily Times, 21 August 2020) On the true friendly relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia An editorial in the Daily Times brings out the importance of the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The author has stated that Saudi Arabia has not made any adverse remarks about Pakistan in the media and mentioned that the Islamic Ummah can ill afford friction between the two countries. He mentions the two determinants that predicate Pakistan’s ties with Saudi Arabia – defence collaboration and the reverence to the holy land. The latter is a strong factor which the author believes reflects the popular aspiration of the Pakistani people. He believes that the bilateral relationship could have realised its full potential if Pakistan had diligently followed up the $40 billion investments from Saudi Arabia after the visit of the Crown Prince if it were not for the global pandemic. The author perceives that Saudi Arabia wants a strong, peaceful and prosperous Pakistan by offering complete support in all forms. Likewise, he lauds the presence of millions of Pakistani expatriates who work in Saudi Arabia and criticizes a section of the media for being ill-informed about the importance of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan and vice-versa. (“Pakistan and Saudi Arabia – True friends,” Daily Times, 21 August 2020) Discord in the Middle East and impact on Pakistan A commentary written in the Daily Times by Nawazish Ali explains about the dissension in the Middle East and the difficulties that Pakistan have to endure while balancing between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Although the discord is reflected in the sectarian divide in the Islamic world, the dispute between Saudi Arabia and Iran became intense following the Islamic Revolution that brought Ayatollah Khomeini to power in 1979. The author highlights the strong understanding between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia since historical times and brings out the importance of the kingdom in the former’s economy. However, with the presence of a large Shia population in Pakistan, the country has avoided confrontations while offering to mediate between its Iranian and Saudi counterparts. The author acknowledges the role of Iran in backing proxies against Pakistan. He writes that the disorientation regarding few aspects like Kashmir has led to displeasure within Pakistan as Saudi Arabia has not openly supported it in recent times. Other factors are Pakistan’s relations with countries which Saudi Arabia shares a rivalry with. The author also brings out the focus on Israel and how it is important to the US and other major powers like India, China, Japan and so on. With growing hostility over Iran, several countries are on the verge of establishing formal diplomatic relations with Israel. He adds that it is not the right time for Pakistan to re-evaluate the diplomatic position with Israel as well as explore other options to escape from the discord. (Nawazish Ali, “Middle East Dissension and Pakistan,” Daily Times, 21 August 2020) New game in Middle East geopolitics An editorial written by Qamar Afzal Rizvi in Daily Times has highlighted the background of the relation between UAE and Israel as the two countries have established a formal diplomatic relationship. The deal dubbed as “Abraham agreement” seems symbolic as the real importance of peace will be an economic opportunity. Historically, both the countries had several divergences including the refusal to recognise Israel since 1971. But with Israel’s move to forge closer links with GCC states and the convergence over concern about Iran’s nuclear programme brought the two together. The author talks about the emerging new bipolar order in the Middle East where Turkey-Iran-Russia-China forms an alliance against the US-backed block. This has implications across Asia, Africa and Europe due to the significance of this region. Mr Rizvi has stated that Mohammed Bin Zayed seems to have distanced himself from a political conflict over Palestinian statehood. He adds that normalising ties with Israel before the settlement of the Palestinian issue is considered as a bad omen in the Muslim unity and thus opines that the Arab League and OIC must condemn this deal. (Syed Qamar Afzal Rizvi, “A new game starts on the Mideast geopolitical chessboard,” Daily Times, 20 August 2020) ON INDIA India called for having an Indian lawyer to represent Kulbhushan Jadhav case in a Pakistani court On 20 August, Anurag Srivastava, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry said, “For a free and fair trial in keeping with the letter and spirit of ICJ (International Court of Justice) judgment”. He called for an Indian lawyer to represent Kulbhushan Jadhav's case in Pakistan court. He also said, “Pakistan has to first address the core issues by giving copies of relevant documents of the case and to provide unimpeded consular access to Jadhav.” Recently, Islamabad High Court named three senior lawyers for the case and ordered the Pakistan government to give “another chance” to India to appoint counsel. (“Delhi wats Indian lawyers to represent Jadhav in review plea”, Dawn, 21 August 2020) "Our state institutions are in unison and pursuing the same vision of overcoming challenges confronting the country" -  President Alvi, on two years of the PTI government

In Focus
The tragedy of Scientists from Pakistan's minority communities
The Story of Dr Negis Mavalvala today, and Dr Abdus Salam then

The media in Pakistan is discussing with pride the appointment of Dr Nergis Mavalvala as the new Dean of the School of Science the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). According to the MIT portal, Dr Mavalvala is “a leader in gravitational-wave detection, a field defined by broad, global collaboration.” (MIT Portal)
 
According to MIT News, “Mavalvala, the Curtis and Kathleen Marble Professor of Astrophysics, is renowned for her pioneering work in gravitational-wave detection, which she conducted as a leading member of LIGO, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory. She has received numerous awards and honours for her research and teaching, and since 2015 has been the associate head of the Department of Physics. Mavalvala will be the first woman to serve as dean in the School of Science.” (MIT News, 17 August 2020)
 
Dr Mavalvala was born in Lahore into a Parsi family but grew up in Karachi. Her primary schooling was in Karachi. Says the MIT news, “A tinkerer by nature, she often got up to her elbows in grease as she absorbed herself in the mechanics of bike repair. In school, she gravitated to math and physics early on, and her parents, strong advocates of both their daughters’ education, encouraged her to apply to college overseas.” (MIT News, 17 August 2020)
 
In 2016, he was felicitated by the then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif “for being part of the team of scientists who have recently detected gravitational waves in space.” (“PM praises Pakistani scientist who played key role in the discovery of gravitational waves,” The Express Tribune, 15 February 2016)
 
She should be a matter of pride for Pakistan. Rightly so.
 
However, Dawn, in its editorial (“Scientific excellence,” 20 August 2020), asks two crucial questions: “…while Dr Mavalvala received her early education in Pakistan, she and several others like her reached the high positions they did through their own efforts and opportunities presented to them in other countries. Unfortunately, Pakistan has done little to invest in the sciences or to promote scientific thinking…So while we celebrate Dr Mavalvala’s achievements, we must ask ourselves: had Dr Mavalvala continued to study and work in Pakistan, would she have been able to reach the position she is in today? Would she have the space or resources to carry out her breakthrough scientific work here? And would her talent have been recognised by either the government or the society she lived in? Or would we have fixated on her identity, focusing on who she is, rather than what she can achieve, thus propping up barriers to her success?.”
 
One year later her felicitation by Nawaz Sharif, a report in the News, titled, “Two Decades from now, Pakistan will have no Parsis,” quotes “ the community has been reduced to 1,092, living in only Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.” (The News, 29 April 2019)
 
 Dawn’s questions are two-fold: first, whether, someone like Dr Mavalvala would have had the infrastructural opportunity and governmental support to achive greatness within Pakistan. And second, whether Pakistan would have kept her away, and got “fixated on her identity, focusing on who she is, rather than what she can achieve.” She is a Parsi, a minority community in Pakistan.
 
Dawn has a point. It refers to the case of Dr Abdus Salam. A brilliant theoretical physicist, he was the founding director of the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) in Pakistan in September 1961. Despite his academic and administrative brilliance, he had to leave Pakistan in 1974, because he was an Ahmediya. In 1974, under the leadership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Pakistan passed a legislation in the Parliament, declaring the Ahmediyas as non-Muslims. In 1979, he went on to become the first scientist born in Pakistan to receive a Nobel Prize!

Palestine responds in kind to Pakistan's statement
From Palestine to Pakistan
On 19 August, in a statement made by the Palestinian embassy, said: “On behalf of Palestinian people and the Government of the State of Palestine, the Embassy of the State of Palestine, Islamabad, Pakistan, conveys sincere thanks … heartily appreciates the stance of H.E. Mr Imran Khan, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan”. Further, the embassy noted Pakistan’s contributions to the Palestinian cause adding that “We Palestinians consider Pakistan as our second homeland, and Pakistanis as our dearest brothers, who always supported Palestine on every forum of the world. Ever since the creation of Pakistan, every government has always supported the just cause of Palestine on all the forums of the world.” (“Palestine appreciates PM’s stance on Israel,” Dawn, 20 August 2020)

From Pakistan to Palestine 
This statement comes a day after PM Imran Khan categorically rejected the possibility of establishing relations with Israel after it signed a historic deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to normalise bilateral ties. To this, he said, “Whatever any country does, our position is very clear. And our position was made clear by [Pakistan's founder] Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah ... in 1948: that we cannot ever accept Israel as long as Palestinians are not given their rights and there is no just settlement.” Further, he said his country will not recognise Israel until there is a Palestinian state acceptable to the Palestinians adding, “When you talk of Israel and Palestine, we need to think, will we be able to answer [God] if we abandon those people who have faced every kind of injustice and whose rights were taken away? My own conscience will never allow me to do this, I can never accept it.” (“My conscience will never accept Israel, says PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 19 August 2020) The same was voice by the Foreign Office last week who reiterated, “Pakistan’s approach will be guided by our evaluation of how Palestinians’ rights and aspirations are upheld and how regional peace, security and stability are preserved.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Palestinian rights, peace dear to Pakistan: FO,” Dawn, 15 August 2020)

Pakistan’s approach to Palestine 
Pakistan has been a constant supporter for the creation of an independent Palestinian state. The two have shared a very close and political relationship with Palestine also having an embassy in Islamabad which was inaugurated on 31 January 2017. However, due to this pro-Palestinian stance, bilateral relations between Pakistan and Israel has been unstable over the last few years, with former governments and leader who have reiterated Islamabad’s longstanding position on the issue of formalising ties with Israel would only happen after Tel Aviv reaches a peace agreement with the Palestinians. However, at the same time, Pakistan has consistently supported the two-state solution for the dispute. Further, in particular, the current Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government the stance on the dispute and issue of ties with Israel has been much more flexible than that of past governments.

All five FATF bills passed; but, the clashes between the government and the opposition continue in the Parliament
On 19 August, the Seated witnessed hurling accusations of corruption, money-laundering and promoting extremism thrown between the opposition and treasury soon after the smooth passage of the remaining two Financial Action Task Force (FATF)-related bills. (Amir Wasim, “Blame game returns to Senate after FATF bills’ passage”, Dawn, 20 August 2020) 

The trigger 
Chaos broke out when members belonging to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) began protests over the Leader of House Shahzad Waseem made remarks against the religious parties, but also attacked the PPP and the PML-N and later when the treasury members raised objections over the use of certain “inappropriate remarks” made by PPP’s Quratulain Marri while responding to Mr Waseem’s speech.

Statements from the Opposition
Responding to the allegations PPP’s Quratulain Marri said those people were raising fingers on the opposition are those who called Osama Bin Laden a martyr, referring to PM Imran Khan’s statement made in the National Assembly. Further. From Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), Mushtaq Ahmed stated that by approving these “imposed and imported legislations”, the parliament had “handcuffed Pakistan and put chains on its feet.” Adding that it clearly shows that these bills are being “imposed” and being done on the pressure of FATF, International Monetary Fund and World Bank terming term it as slavery to anti-money laundering watchdog. Further, they once again criticised the PPP and PLM-N for cooperating with the government in the passage of the crucial laws.

All five bills passed by the Senate amid strong resistance
The Limited Liability Partnership (Amendment) Bill, 2020, and the Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2020 were passed after the government accepted the amendments proposed by the PPP’s Farooq Naek and Imamuddin Shouqeen. Both the bills were passed with a majority vote as the members of the JUI-F and the JI opposed them during a voice vote. However, both these bills will go back to the National Assembly for final approval as they contain amendments. Earlier this week, the Senate passed the Islamabad Capital Territory Trust Bill 2020, the Control of Narcotic Substances (Amendment) Bill 2020 and the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2020 amid noisy protests from the senate. (Amir Wasim, “Senate passes two more FATF-related bills”, Dawn, 19 August 2020) 
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
The Centre and Sindh agreed to come with six key areas of developments
On 19 August, the Federal and Sindh government have agreed on setting up a coordination committee to work on six key areas of infrastructural development in Karachi. The six areas were water, sewerage system, solid waste disposal, clearing nullahs and removing encroachments, repairing roads, and introducing a modern transportation system. Asad Umar said, “A list will be made, and the projects will be divided between the federal government and Sindh. The legal aspect and the source of financing the projects will also be worked out in the timeframe.” During the talks, it was decided that from Sindh, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and provincial ministers Nasir Hussain Shah and Saeed Ghani would take part in the committee and from the federal government, Minister for Planning Asad Umar, Minister for Maritime Affairs Ali Zaidi and Minister for information technology MQM-P member Syed Aminul Haq will participate. (“Centre, Sindh agree to solve Karachi’s 6 problems together,” The News International, 20 August 2020)
 
No government gave importance to human rights as is given by the PTI government
On 19 August, Federal Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari while sharing two-year progress said, “the Ministry has enacted six laws and drafted seven legislations, besides that it is also taking practical measure to implement the laws through monitoring, training, institutional development and sensitization process”.

Many ministries participated in the press conference organized by the Federal Minister for Information and Broad Casting Shibli Faraz. Shireen Mazari also pointed out “No government gave importance to human rights as is given by the PTI government. Protection of human rights is one of the priority agendas of Prime Minister Imran Khan,”. Many rights such as Zainab Alert, Response and Recovery Act, 2019, Legal Aid and Justice Authority Act 2020, Diyat, Arsh and Daman Fund Rules Amendment, insertion of “Child Domestic Work” in Part I of Schedule of the Employment of Children Act 1991 and The ICT Child Protection Act, 2018 and Juvenile Justice System Act 2018 has been enacted in the last two-years. (“Shireen Mazari unveils two-year performance report of MoHR,” The News International, 20 August 2020)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Extra-judicial killings return
An editorial in the Dawn critically states, “Extrajudicial killings, often in the form of staged encounters, are a stain on this country’s reputation, belying its claim to be a democracy with constitutionally protected rights to security of person and due process.” While addressing the recent case of Hayat Baloch who was shot by Frontier Corps has gone on to creating uproar and Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari condemned the “brazen killing” as “absolutely unacceptable” saying that an inquiry must be held. However, with knowing the state’s attitude while address such issues and given that extrajudicial killings take place with impunity the editorial states that one can hopes that justice is served. (“A tragic murder”, Dawn, 20 August 2020)

Coordination body established for Karachi
Leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf met for the third time in one week and decided to form a collaboration committee between federal and Sindh governments and identified six areas for the improvement of Karachi. However, the PPP-led Sindh government insisted that the scope of the collaboration covered the whole province and not Karachi alone. Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar said the six-member committee would not be headed by anyone and would function on mutual understanding. The six areas of collaboration include solid waste management, clean waste management, clean drinking water projects and anti-encroachment drive, infrastructure development, road construction and transport management in the port city. The minister also said that the bottlenecks over projects like Karachi Circular Railway, K-IV water project and Greater Karachi Sewerage Project S-III would be removed through mutual consultations. This development comes in after the PPP staged protests on 19 August in Karachi and Islamabad against Imran Khan’s government’s ‘intention’ to separate Karachi from Sindh. (Aamir Yasin and Azfar-ul-Ashfaque, “Coordination body formed for Karachi betterment”, Dawn, 20 August 2020)

ECONOMY
Nine vessels booked for wheat import to Pakistan 
On 19 August, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research said, “Nine vessels have been booked up to October 2020 for approximately 65,000 tons each,”. This import will further help the authorities to ease supplies of wheat flour and a check on domestic prices.

The imported wheat will be exempted from the Anti-Hoarding Act imposed by the provincial governments. Department of Plant Protection (DPP) has issued the import permit to 380 private importers for 1,576,000 tons of wheat in the country. As per the analysis, “Three recipients have endorsed the quantity of 1.5 tons of imported wheat -- Punjab (700,000 tons), KP (300,000 tons) and PASSCO (500,000 tons)”. (“First imported wheat cargo to reach Pakistan next week”, The News International, 20 August 2020)

Pakistan exported tons of mangoes, President Arif Alvi decided to send "gift of mangos" to head of the state
According to an analysis, this year Pakistan has achieved higher mango exports. It is reported, exports have crossed 125,000 tons of the fruit, worth $72 million, despite the COVID-19 crisis. President Arif Alvi decided to send the “gift of mangoes” to all heads of states with a view of improving diplomatic ties with these states. Under the Pakistan mission abroad, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) conducted mango promotion-related activities in 24 cities of the world. Waheed Ahmed, patron-in-chief of Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA) said, “the current mango season was one of the most difficult seasons in the history of exports”. However, the appropriate and realistic strategies, including the switching export through sea and land routes of mangoes have proven beneficial. (“Pakistan exports 125000 tons mangoes worth $72 million”, The News International, 20 August 2020)

The increasing burden on pensions
An editorial in the Dawn talks about the increasing pension problem. It has stated that Imran Khan’s remarks on the pension bill being a far more serious problem than the huge power-sector debt seems exaggerated as the government can continue the pension payments but warns that the increasing pension expenditure will become Pakistan’s biggest budgetary challenge unless tackled quickly. Data shows that the annual federal pension payments of Rs 470 billion mostly consisting of military pensions and excluded retirement benefits paid by SOEs to employees, have grown. At the provincial levels, the pension budget has spiked. The editorial points out the reasons for the increase in pension payments like the growing size of the public sector, increase in life expectancy, hikes in pension benefits and so on. To tackle the problem, the editorial suggests that different countries have adopted different models to avoid the dangers associated with the pay-as-you-go-based pension system in recent years and have been successful. It states that any model adopted should come with a long-term focus to ensure post-retirement income security for government employees while reducing the burden of pension payments on the budget. (“Pension burden,” Dawn, 20 August 2020)
 
2.3 million Pakistanis could lose jobs this year due to pandemic
A report titled “Tackling the Covid-19 Youth Employment Crisis in Asia and the Pacific” released on 18 August by the Asian Development Bank and the International Labour Organisation warns that Pakistan is on the risk of 2.3 million youths losing jobs this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. The unemployment rates in the country are expected to reach double even in a scenario of short Covid-19 containment. Pakistan’s comparison made with different countries shows that Indonesia may register lower job losses (around 1.9 million) despite a larger workforce as Pakistan has a higher concentration of youth in badly hit sectors and lower labour productivity. (“2.3mln Pakistani youth may be jobless this year due to pandemic,” The News International, 20 August 2020) 

ON WOMEN JOURNALISTS
Analysts state that women still face pervasive sexism in the country
According to the analysis, the murder of journalist Arooj Iqbal, in November 2019 is a sign of growing anarchy in the country. It highlights the government’s apathy towards women journalists which has aggravates the plight of all the women across the country. (“Women journalists & Aug 14”, Dawn, 20 August 2020)

In another analysis, Durdana Najam highlighted two main issues women face, first, the society does not support working women. second, the workplace does not provide basic infrastructure to facilitate child-rearing. Pakistan had passed two legislations, first enacted in 2010 as “The Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act-2010” and second, “The Punjab Shops and Establishment (Amendment) Act 2013”. Both the legislative value of laws and manifestation was seen negligible on-ground reality. As the women continue to bear pervasive sexism, vulnerable, inferior, and dependable on men of society. (“The workplace still isn’t equal for women”, The Express Tribune, 20 August 2020)

"No government gave importance to human rights as is given by the PTI government. Protection of human rights is the one of the priority agendas of Prime Minister Imran Khan" -  Shireen Mazari, Minister for Human Rights

In Brief

"Pakistan can never recognise Israel," says Imran Khan

"Our position on Israel is very clear. Pakistan can never recognise Israel. If we surrender to Israel, then we must leave Kashmir. We also have to answer to Almighty Allah about Israel and Palestine"

In an interview with a private news channel on 18 August, Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his views on Israel along with issues over Kashmir, the bilateral relationship between China and Pakistan, the Afghan peace process, economy, national issues and politics. He said “Our position on Israel is very clear. Pakistan can never recognise Israel. If we surrender to Israel, then we must leave Kashmir. We also have to answer to Almighty Allah about Israel and Palestine.”

The Prime Minister went on to state that China has stood with Pakistan in good and bad times and mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit the country in winter. He also said: "We are further strengthening our ties with China. China also needs Pakistan very much. Unfortunately, Western countries are using India against China."

He declined the media reports on the deterioration of relations with Saudi Arabia. On the relationship with the United States, he said both Pakistan and the US are partners in the peace process in Afghanistan and the discussion on Kashmir issue. Mr Imran Khan spoke about the issues on corruption and bankruptcy in Pakistan’s institutions that prevailed before he was elected as the Prime Minister. He spoke about the problems in the energy issues and power distribution as well as the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. (“My conscience will never accept Israel, says PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 19 August 2020)

Gen Bajwa's Saudi Visit: The Meeting with Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), on 17 August, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Defence Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa discussed “matters of mutual interest including bilateral defence and security cooperation and regional security”.

Saudi’s Prince Khalid bin Salman, full younger brother of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman tweeted, “Met today with my brother, H.E. General Qamar Bajwa, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff. We discussed bilateral relations, military cooperation, and our common vision for preserving regional security.” As per the Saudi statement issues of “common concern” were also discussed. (“Bajwa, Saudi deputy defence minister discuss security issues,” Dawn, 19 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
NA panel wants thorough inquiry into PIA crash
During a meeting held on 18 August, the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat called for a thorough investigation into the real causes behind the Pakistan International Airlines A-320 plane’s crash in Karachi that claimed 97 lives. The committee stated that flight was functioning despite the reported questionable experience of the pilots and airworthiness of the plane. It maintained that a detailed enquiry was required to avoid similar future mishaps. The committee was also informed that a 12-member investigation team comprising of aviation experts, representatives from CAA, PIA and Boeing company and a psychologist, had examined the debris of the aircraft and recording of the black box. The resumption of PIA flights to Europe was also directed. (“NA panel calls for thorough probe into Karachi air crash,” Dawn, 19 August 2020)

HR Minister says that women journalists should give proof of alleged harassment, promising that action will be taken 
On 18 August, Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari stated that women journalists should provide proof of alleged harassment. This statement was made during a session of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired by PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. While speaking further on the harassment of journalists, especially women, she added that all political parties must take steps in this regard and that the PTI was ready to do so. These comments from Mazari comments came after a number of leading Pakistani women journalist accused Twitter accounts affiliated with the ruling PTI of harassment and abuse. To this, the minister stated, "If anyone has proof, we will take action. Those who harass others using the PTI's name should be identified," adding, "If someone believes any PTI account is engaged in harassment, they should point it out. Action will be taken against any PTI account engaging in harassment." (Haseem uz Zaman, “Women journalists should give proof of alleged harassment, says Mazari, vowing action”, The News International, 19 August 2020) 

Two new FATF bills passed
On 18 August 2020, the Senate has passed two more (Islamabad Capital Territory Trust Bill and the Control of Narcotic Substances Bill) Financial Action Task Force related bill. The member of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam, the JI, and the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party protested and showed strong condemnation toward the bill. (“Senate passes two more FATF-related bills”, Dawn, 19 August 2020) 

PROVINCES
CM of Balochistan expresses concern over rising COVID-19 cases in the province
Chief Minister of Balochistan Jam Kamal Khan Alyani had voiced concern over the increasing number of coronavirus cases over the past one week in the province due to people and other institutions not follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs). Further, the CM in a letter which was addressed to all administrative secretaries, divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners, ordered for to implementation of the SOPs to protect people from the virus as it still exists in the province. Additionally, he directed the authorities concerned to take steps for creating awareness among the masses about the virus. (Saleem Shahid, “Balochistan CM concerned over rise in Covid-19 cases,” Dawn, 19 August 2020)

COVID-19
Covid-19 vaccine trial
The editorial explains about the vaccine trials in Pakistan and the suggestions offered to the government. Pakistan is now one of the countries where a trial for a potential Covid-19 vaccine will be conducted. The vaccine candidate will be supplied by China which has been developed by the state-owned China National Pharmaceutical Group (Sinopharm). 200 volunteers from Karachi will be administered the inactive vaccine. The vaccine trials have entered Phase 3 along with other candidates and have been sent to UAE where it will be sent to thousands of people. This phase allows scientists to administer the vaccine to thousands of people and observe its effectiveness to show evidence of rare side effects missed in earlier studies. The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has approved the trial and recommended it to be held at Indus Hospital where each participant will be paid Rs 50,000. According to an official, if the vaccine trial is successful, it would be available at “affordable rates”. The editorial suggests that in a situation where thousands of volunteers are desperate to participate in the trials considering the hefty compensation, the administrators would have to ensure that the participants express genuine consent and are made aware of both the benefits and risks in the procedure. It suggests the government maintain the ethical standards and fulfil the trial obligations with utmost obligations. (“Covid-19 vaccine trial,” Dawn, 19 August 2020)

In Focus
PTI's two-year report card. The government congratulates itself, while the Opposition sees it as an "unmitigated disaster".

As the incumbent government at the Centre marked two years of its reign, it conducted a press briefing to highlight the PTI government’s achievements since 2018. Adviser to the PM on Finance Abdul Hafeez Shaikh highlighted the performance of the finance ministry and pointed out that when PTI came to power, Pakistan was facing a mountain of challenges. He claimed that the government had brought down the current account deficit. Shaikh said that the government of Pakistan, both civil and military leadership, had shrunk their budgets to help face the crisis. (“Cabinet presents two-year performance report,” The News International, 18 August 2020)

Achievements
Shaikh spoke of the cash disbursement to ordinary people through the Ehsaas Emergency Cash Programme; he said it was the first time in the history of Pakistan that Rs250bn was distributed amongst citizens of Pakistan "in every city and goth". The adviser said that no new tax was imposed in budget 2020-21; disclosed a 6% growth of Pakistan's exports in July; and said that "The FBR collected Rs300bn [the amount] was 23 times more than their internal estimates". He spoke of the cheap loans provided by the government to assist small traders and government’s relief to traders; and pointed out the substantial increase in cement sales and exports despite the novel Covid-19 situation. Shaikh added that Pakistan’s rating by international organisations and economic observers like Moody's, Fitch and Bloomberg had improved due to the incumbent PTI government’s policies. FMShah Mahmood Qureshi, who also spoke at the event, stated the Indian government’s failure to isolate Pakistan internationally on the Kashmir issue also as a success of the PTI. Planning Minister Asad Umarspoke of the 'unprecedented challenges' posed by the pandemic and explained how the Centre strategically dealt with them. (“International observers have acknowledged economic progress during 2 years of PTI govt: Hafeez,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)

Claims of Wide global Recognition
Shaikh hailed the performance of Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) claiming that international publications such as Bloomberg had praised it. Federal Minister of Industries and Production Hammad Azhar also mentioned that Pakistan received global praise for the recent FATF-related legislations. Azhar also spoke of a unique construction package brought about by the PTI that had been creating economic successes already. He also said the PTI government had tackled the problem of Pakistan Steel Mills. Hafeez Sheikh said that Neutral international observers had acknowledged Pakistan’s economic progress despite the pandemic.

Criticisms
The PML-N and PPP criticised the government's performance. PML-N chief and Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif termed it an "unmitigated disaster" in his tweet. PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also took to Twitter to ambush Imran Khan and his government. "[Two] years in power and Imran Khan has given us the worst economy in our country’s history, foreign policy failures from Kashmir to Saudi, democracy and human rights suffering, unemployment at an all-time, transparency international has said corruPTIon is higher than before," he tweeted. (“'Unmitigated disaster': PML-N, PPP criticise PTI govt's two-year performance,” Dawn, 18 August 2020) Meanwhile, a Dawn editorial calls the government a “hallowed institution”; blames the prime minister for his irregular attending of the Assembly and the “toxic relationship between the treasury and opposition benches” for the state of the government. (“Parliamentary affairs,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)

Qureshi's Four-pronged strategy to deal with India
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi attended a webinar on “Annexation of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir: Lessons for Regional Security”, organised by Islamabad Policy Institute (IPI) where he said that the world is uncertain, less predictable and perhaps more dysfunctional. He explained the government’s four-pronged strategy on dealing with India which entailed confronting, exposing and pushing back against India’s intentions; deterring it through military preparedness, conflict resolution and confidence-building; and not being distracted by India’s actions while continuing with regional integration projects through participation in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and the Economic Cooperation Organisation.

On the other hand, Dr Shireen Mazari, Minister for Human Rights mentioned the areas in which diplomacy was lacking. She was critical about the Foreign Office’s handling of the Kashmir issue which she believes was looked at from political dynamics point of view alone. She contended that India’s actions in Kashmir could make war seem imminent. Dr Mazari proposed the model of “Good Friday Agreement” in 1998 which ended the violence in Northern Ireland, as an approach to solving the dispute over Kashmir. The webinar was also attended by international scholars from China, Nepal, Iran, Turkey and Bangladesh. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Four-pronged strategy being pursued to deal with India: FM,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
Violence against women in KP: A Report identifies existing gaps in the legislative framework for ending
A report launched by Women Parliamentary Caucus Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (WPC-KP) and UN Women Pakistan on “Gap analysis of legislation related to ending violence against women EVAW” looks into providing an in-depth analysis of the normative, implementation and monitoring gaps in the legislative framework of the province and to identify and document gaps in the existing provincial legal framework and implementation process. The report has been designed and commissioned by UN Women Pakistan in partnership with Women Parliamentary Caucus KP with the financial support of UK Aid. The main aim of this analysis has been to contextualize EVAW laws within the framework of the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (CEDAW) and Pakistan’s other international commitments. (“Report identifies legislative gaps in ending violence against women in KP,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)

Senate passes one of the five FATF related-bills amid protests
On 17 August, the Senate managed to pass only one of the five FATF-related bills amid protest by religious and nationalist parties whose not only called out the ruling PTI for “doing legislation in haste under international pressure”, but also criticised the country’s two major opposition parties for cooperating with the government in the passage of the crucial legislations. Due to strong protest from Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F), Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) and the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) the Senate Chairman deferred the passage of the two other FATF-related bills till 18 August after allowing the chairmen of the committees on the interior and narcotics control to present reports on the bills through a supplementary agenda on a private member’s day. (Amir Wasim, “Senate adopts one of five FATF-related bills,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)

Parliamentary bodies to visit the concerned province to make a plan of action for the missing person
On 17 August, the Parliamentary committee decided, to visit all the provinces concerned for the recovery of the missing persons. 450 missing persons were released but no responsibility was fixed on anyone. Farhatullah Babar, former PPP senator pointed out, 153 persons were reviewed in detail in the committee but no one had ever been held responsible. (“Parliamentary body to make plan of action for missing person’ recovery”, Dawn, 18 August 2020)  

Prime Minister Imran Khan announced a record $2,768 million remittances in July
Prime Minister Imran Khan had said on 17 August that Pakistan’s remittances from overseas Pakistanis had reached $2,768 million in July which was a record in one month in the country’s history. He said that this was 12.2 per cent increase over June 2020 and 36.5 per cent increase recorded on a year-on-year basis. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) had given the statistics for the same. (“Boon for economy: Record $2,768 remittances pour in July, says PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 18 August 2020)

Constitutionally impossible to divide Sindh: Murad
Chief Minister of Sindh province Syed Murad Ali Shah had said that the people talking about the bifurcation of Sindh are enemies of Pakistan and added that it is constitutionally impossible. He stated that each province has been given constitutional status, privileges and role but the demands of the few were extra-constitutional for vested interests. Likewise, he mentioned that it was an attempt to divert the issue of Kashmir. In a meeting held on 15 August with Federal Minister Asad Umar, Mr Shah discussed the issues of cleanliness of storm-water drains and to complete the projects which have been pending. He showed a 1954 newspaper clipping in which a vehicle had submerged in rainwater on a street in Karachi indicating that this has been an old problem. Mr Shah then spoke about a series of infrastructure development projects that his government undertook in the city. He criticized the federal government for the increase in the prices of sugar and flour. (Tahir Siddiqui, “Division of Sindh constitutionally impossible, declares Murad,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)  

COVID-19
Drug Regulatory Authority gives go-ahead for a clinical trial of COVID-19 vaccine
On 17 August, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) approved holding clinical trial of Covid-19 vaccine in the country. Drap Clinical Studies Committee secretary Shafqat Hussain Danish, in a document noted that the committee recommended that the trial be held in Indus Hospital, Karachi. The test is to be carried out by the International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences, Karachi, in collaboration with a Chinese company which is already conducting trials in China. Around 200 volunteers from Karachi, representing various ethnic groups are said to have registered. The trial will be completed in 56 days during which three injections of the inactivated virus will be administered to the volunteers. Meanwhile, a statement issued by the National Institute of Health (NIH) noted that this would be the first-ever phase-III clinical trial for any vaccine in Pakistan. (Ikram Junaidi, “Drap approves clinical trial of Covid-19 vaccine,” Dawn, 18 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
Qatar and Sri Lanka envoys conversation with Pakistan foreign Minister
On 17 August, new Qatar’s envoy Sheikh Saoud bin Abdul Rehman Al-Thani expressed the country’s desire to expand bilateral ties with Pakistan, undertaking educational projects beside enhancing investments. According to Mr Quershi, foreign Minister both countries “discussed ways and means of enhancing the existing economic cooperation, investment in food security and other sectors”. Quershi conversation with Ad­­miral Mohan Wijewickrama, a new Sri Lanka envoy, reaffirmed the importance of strong bilateral ties. They also discussed further deepening and broadening cooperation in all areas of mutual interest and emphasized on achieving the annual target of $1 billion. (“New Qatari envoy urges expansion in ties”, Dawn, 18 August 2020)

In Focus
The Federation and Sindh come together on Karachi, thanks to the Establishment

Center and Sindh join forces to Save Karachi
On 16 August, the federal government and Sindh’s provincial government formed a committee comprising members of the PTI, PPP and MQM to address Sindh’s capital Karachi’s civic issues. The committee convened a meeting in Islamabad on Sunday, to discuss Karachi’s challenges and problems in light of the recent rains and pledged to work together for their resolution. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Information Minister Nasir Hussain Shah, Education Minister Saeed Ghani, Sindh Governor Imran Ismail, Karachi Mayor Wasim Akhtar, Federal Minister Asad Umar and NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Muhammad Afzal were in attendance. (“Saving Karachi: Centre, Sindh agree to join hands,” The News International, 17 August 2020.

According to Dawn, "Intervention from the highest level of the establishment over the issue of Karachi has yielded positive results as the city’s three stakeholders — Pakistan Peoples Party, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan — have agreed to take joint measures for the betterment of the country’s commercial capital." ("PPP, MQM, PTI to work for Karachi uplift after prodding," Dawn, 17 August 2020)

Reactions in Favour
Sindh’s spokesperson, Murtaza Wahab, said “the committee will see that development work is carried out smoothly in the city and remove obstacles in this regard." Sindh’s CM claimed that PPP's Sindh government was always ready to work together with others for the betterment of the province. Nasir Hussain welcomed the three-party approach, boasted that Sindh had made record progress under PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s leadership claiming that Bhutto had started development projects worth "billions of rupees”, unseen in any other province. "The alliance of the three parties will not please the enemies of Karachi,” he added. Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Aminul Haque sounded positive that pending issues such as road infrastructure, the K-IV water project, cleanliness of drains, lifting of daily garbage and local governments would be resolved. PTI Karachi President and MPA Khurram Sherzaman called it another opportunity provided by the federal government to the PPP’s provincial government to resolve Karachi’s issues.

Criticisms
GDA spokesperson Sardar Abdul Rahim called it an attempt by the Centre and Province to open a united front against the Supreme Court that had scolded both parties. Jamiat-e-Ulema-e-Islam Sindh’s Secretary-General Maulana Khalid Mehmood Soomro alleged the handing over of Karachi to the Federation under the mask of Sindhi Ajrak, and called it a conspiracy that would compromise Sindh’s autonomy and integrity. Shahab Usto in his article “Karachi sans master plan” criticises Karachi’s lack of a master plan for development, absence of a comprehensive and united regulatory system, insufficient and underdeveloped infrastructure and gerrymandering of Karachi’s boundaries by large corporate and institutional builders. He blames elitist land policy for making Karachi “an odious object of a rapacious scramble by corrupt politicians, corporate interests, powerful institutions, compromised administrators, collusive regulators and politico-ethnic mafias.”

Karachi’s political affiliation
In 2018’s general elections, major shifts were observed after decades of usual ‘traditional’ results. From Karachi, PTI emerged as the leading party, PPP tasted defeat in Lyari, its stronghold, MQM suffered its worst-ever defeat and Pak Sarzameen Party’s electoral launch became a disaster. The elections also paved way for new enterants such as Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan which scored two provincial assembly seats.With the pandemic situation and Sindh CM Murad Shah’s emergence as the torchbearer for Pakistan’s battle against Covid-19, PPP was gaining political mileage across the country. The SC verdict was a dent to their new-found support. The new committee can be appraised in both ways – as another opportunity to resolve the province’s issues or as a blow to their increasing popularity. (“Election results bring surprises for all contesting parties,” Dawn, 27 July 2018)

Context
Recently, reports that the Center was considering several legal and constitutional options for Karachi due to Sindh’s failure have been doing the rounds. These were said to be opposed by Sindh’s PPP government. Previously, on 12 August, the Supreme Court had handed over the cleaning of Karachi’s storm water drains to NDMA, citing Sindh government’s incapability to execute the same. The three-judge bench led by CJP Gulzar Ahmed also directed Sindh’s PPP government to extend complete support to NDMA and ensure resettlement of affected people. The SC called it the provincial government’s “failure” and further ordered the Centre to resolve the city’s power problems. (“Irked by Sindh govt’s performance, SC hands over cleaning of all Karachi drains to NDMA,” Dawn, 13 August 2020) (“NDMA, not Sindh govt, to clean Karachi drains: Supreme Court,” The Express Tribune, 13 August 2020)

In August 2018, the PTI government completes two years. Last year, it has governed more through ordinances, than legislations. Why?
 
During the second year of its governance, the PTI during the last one year (Aug 2019-Aug 2020), had more Ordinances, than formal legislation discussed through the Parliament.
 
Rule by Ordinances than Parliamentary Legislations
According to a news report in Dawn: “The official data shows that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf-led coalition government mostly depended on promulgation of ordinances for doing legislation and issued a total of 31 ordinances as compared to seven during the last parliamentary year, despite severe criticism by opposition parties.” (“Ordinances outnumber laws passed by National Assembly,” Dawn, 17 August 2020)
 
Dawn also mentions in the above report, that out of the ordinances issued during the last one year, there were two important ones. The first one, seeking an amendment to the National Accountability Ordinance 1999, and the second one on ICJ (Review and Reconsideration) Ordinance 2020 relating to Kulbhushan Jadhav.
 
During the recent period, the NAB Ordinance has become a controversial one. Not only the main Opposition parties – the PML-N and the PPP are against the partisan manner in which the NAB is functioning, but even the judiciary. The Supreme Court made a few scathing remarks about the functioning of the NAB. (“Supreme Court bench slams NAB for its 'double standards',” Dawn, 23 October 2018). More recently, the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court had accused the NAB of attempting to blackmail the judges. (“IHC CJ accuses NAB of blackmailing judges,” Dawn, 18 March 2020)
 
The second one, on Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Opposition has been blaming the government for yielding to the Indian pressure. The government, on the other hand, has been convincing that the same was necessary to adhere to the ICJ requirements.
 
The Big Picture: Undermining the Parliament and the Discussions in the National Assembly
Why is the government taking the Ordinance route, and not the discussions in the National Assembly leading to proper legislations with the sanction of the Parliament? Even when it introduced in the Parliament, it gave no time or space for any discussion.
 
For example, last week, on 13 August, the government passed 11 Presidential Ordinances in 30 minutes in the Parliament! (“PTI bulldozes 11 ordinances through NA,” Dawn, 14 August 2020)
 
Perhaps the lack of majority in the Senate is an issue for the PTI government. However, the PTI did succeed in getting the FATF bills passed in the Senate, with the Opposition parties supporting the government.
 
So, why would the PTI government not want to engage the Parliament?

In Brief
INTERNAL
Minister Fawad Chaudhry says, there is infighting within the PML-N over leadership
Fawad Chaudhry, Minister of federal Science and Technology said, there is an internal fight is going between the PML-N Shahbaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz for the party leadership. He also said, “Maryam will be able to do active politics only if Shahbaz Sharif is removed as president”. When asked about the role of PML-Q, he highlighted that the leadership of PML-Q leader Chaudhry Parvez Elahi was in alliance with the PTI only because the Q-League saw “some benefit for itself”. (“Fawad sees infighting in PML-N over leadership”, Dawn, 17 August 2020)

"Making Digital Pakistan work: An opinion suggests five points"
According to the analysis, the digital economy of any country is based on five pillars: connectivity, digital identity, digital lifestyle, digital commerce, and digital policies and Pakistan should adopt the mantra ‘broadband-for-all’.

First, Connectivity, which encompasses the pricing of handset and data usage, speed and coverage. The content generation for the people should be more in the local language, gender-focused, and should also encourage usage in the country. As per the Network Readiness Index, Pakistan ranks 98th out of 121 countries. Second, the Digital identity, as per the analysis, ‘regional countries have surpassed Pakistan in this front’. The nation needs to develop ‘Pakistan Stacks’ which will allow each citizen to have their own electronic locker, with the CNIC number, their birth certificate, educational degrees, and subsequent medical records available electronically.

Third, the digital lifestyle, with the advent of Covid-19, affected both the conventional and the digital economy. For the first time, Pakistan has tabulated the number of hospital beds. Fourth, the Digital commerce is generated through a tax on SIM card, a tax on its activation, value-added tax on additional services, a handset tax, usage tax and customs duties on the import of handphones. The analysis highlights, ‘Pakistan fail the UN affordability measure of the total cost of mobile ownership (one GB of data costing less than 2pc of monthly income for the low-income community)’. And suggests an alternate, stating “the phones should be manufactured in Pakistan with which the data package by telecommunication companies should locks in the customer for 12 months and provides the phone for free. This will entail in the immediate penetration of smartphones at the bottom of the pyramid”.

Fifth, digital policies, as per the Ministry of Information and Technology and Digital Pakistan initiative reveals, well-articulated ambitions and policies but differs from any progress made until now in the country. (“How to make Digital Pakistan work”, Dawn, 17 August 2020)
 
ECONOMY
Improve the fiscal-monetary coordination to kickstart the economy
An analysis made by Mohidduin Aazim says that controlling inflation is difficult. It talks about how the prices for food items like wheat flour, sugar, vegetable ghee, eggs and fresh loose milk have shot up over the years. It is not restricted to food prices alone. Non-food items like fuel has also shown a rising trend. One of the reasons stated by the author for this problem is the unusual expansion of currency in circulation (CiC). Another reason is that the federal government’s 2018-19 net borrowing of Rs 3.16 trillion from the State Bank of Pakistan had a lagged impact on CiC in the following year. In 2019-20, the rupee witnessed 5 per cent depreciation after Pakistan borrowed foreign funds from friendly states, local and foreign commercial banks as well as entered the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme. However, if the stability of the exchange rate is shaken currently amidst growing concerns about Pakistan’s ability to sustain its gains in external account fundamentals, then it too shall keep the inflation high.

Mr Aazim suggests the PTI government to improve the fiscal-monetary coordination to boost the economy. He agrees that the fuel price hikes help in tax revenue generation but has a negative impact on businesses where there is a need for industries to produce more at a reduced cost to lift demand and boost economic growth. (Mohiuddin Aazim, “Taming inflation is difficult,” Dawn, 17 August 2020)  

Mixed sentiments over uptrend in exports
An analysis made by Afshan Subohi talks about the federal government’s release of export growth showing an uptrend. In July, Pakistan managed to post 5.8 per cent growth in exports after recording an annual drop of 54 per cent in April due to the coronavirus pandemic. In a rare display of admiration, the exporters’ community thanked the government for its relentless support. The government too pitched in to praise the contributions of entrepreneurs, techies, fruit and vegetable traders who competed despite the pandemic. Abdul Razak Dawood, the advisor to the Prime Minister on commerce was optimistic about these trends and even stated that the government would lift the ban on export of PPEs. He had acknowledged that the lingering price hike in essential food items and power supply disruptions are two of the most important issues that need government intervention.

Mr Dawood had also stated that the dumping of sub-quality products had hurt the local industry. However, the business world issued a warning. They believe that the frequent power cuts in a major city like Karachi in addition to the tight bureaucratic control makes it difficult for businesses to sustain and in turn impact negatively on the exports. Due to the lack of compliance to the international standards and a credible certification infrastructure, the threat of contaminated containers exported to other countries looms large and can compromise the scope of all exports. (Afshan Subohi, “Have exports turned the corner for real?,” Dawn, 17 August 2020)
  
EXTERNAL
Trade resumes between Iran and Pakistan
On 16 August, the informal border trade between Iran and Pakistan was resumed. The Zero Point gate at Taftan was reopened by the Iranian authorities for bilateral trade. The border which is now reopened will allow tax-free import and export of edible commodities between the two countries after more than two weeks. The gate was closed on 30 July in connection with Eidul Azha holidays. Iran exported 2.26 million tons of commodities worth $867 million to Pakistan during the nine months to 21 December 2019 to register a 20 per cent rise in tonnage and a 3 per cent decline in value compared with last year’s corresponding period.

Pakistan exported 293,000 tons of goods worth $331 million to Iran during the same period to register 48 per cent and 58 per cent growth in tonnage and value respectively year-on-year. Iran exported bitumen, hydrocarbon gas, low-density oils, liquefied propane and fruit juice to Pakistan while Iran mainly imported semi- and wholly-milled rice, cow, sesame seeds, beef and cans from Pakistan. (“Border trade with Iran resumes,” Dawn, 17 August 2020)

Chaman border crossing opens allowing thousands of Afghans and Pakistanis cross over
On 16 August, Pakistan and Afghanistan opened their border near Chaman allowing thousands of their nationals, who were stranded on both sides of the border to go back to their home countries. According to the border authorities, Afghan and Pakistan nationals crossed into their countries from two points at the Chaman border. As many as 3,145 Afghan nationals, including women and children, entered through the Friendship Gate and 3,000 others through Mazai corridor, another crossing point between the two countries. This decision comes after the crossing was closed in late July following a clash that erupted over border closure earlier. (“Thousands of Afghans and Pakistanis cross Chaman border,” Dawn, 17 August 2020)

Foreign Minister requests parties to remove hurdles to intra-Afghan talks
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had asked all the parties on 16 August to ensure resolution of the residual issues in order to commence the intra-Afghan negotiations without delay. This comes in just ahead of the long-awaited intra-Afghan talks that are expected to begin in Doha, Qatar. Mr Qureshi said that the collective efforts had succeeded in ensuring an advancement in the peace process. Under the Doha agreement between the Afghan Taliban and the US, the Afghan government was to release 5,000 prisoners in exchange for 1,000 security personnel held hostage. In subsequent batches, around 4,600 were released but Ashraf Ghani’s government was reluctant to release the remaining 400 dubbed as “dangerous”. The Loya Jirga endorsed their release and Ghani had to pass a presidential decree to set them free. So far, 80 have been released which has been perceived as a way forward in the peace process. A diplomat privy to the developments had confirmed that a lot of groundwork had been done in this regard. However, the issue of ceasefire remains a challenge. Taliban’s political spokesperson Suhail Shaheen stated that the ceasefire issue would be discussed as per the intra-Afghan negotiations. (Ikram Junaidi, “FM urges parties to remove hitches to intra-Afghan talks,” Dawn, 17 August 2020)  
 

CPEC: An analysis talks about four specific contributions to Pakistan
According to an analysis, there are four sectors in which CPEC has contributed.  First, the welfare sector. The welfare gains contribute to reducing or eliminating poverty. As per the analysis, due to welfare gains, almost 1.1 million people will come out of the poverty trap. The new reforms may increase trade by 9.8 per cent.  

Second, Employment sector. The analysis highlights, CPEC will create four million jobs, directly with the implementation of SEZs and new opportunities for entrepreneurship will be generated. Till now CPEC has created 75000 jobs for Pakistanis (China Embassy 2019).

Third, the energy sector. The CPEC investment helped in contributing issues of ageing plants and infrastructure related to electricity. As per the Vision 2025 pointed out, electricity load shedding was undermining the GDP growth rate by two per cent, and a monetarily a loss of $4-5 billion annually.

Fourth, the transport sector. Infrastructure played a major role in the development of industries and trade enhancement. From CPEC investments Small and Medium Enterprises have benefited. Earlier, the Bad transport infrastructure has resulted in a loss of 4-6 per cent to GDP (Vision 2025, Pakistan). ("Understanding the CPEC", Dawn, 15 August 2020)

(Image Source: The News)

In Brief
COVID-19
Chinese firm developing virus vaccine to supply the candidate to Pakistan as part of a trial agreement
The China National Pharmaceutical Group (Sinopharm) which is developed a coronavirus vaccine candidate has appeared to be safe and has triggered antibody-based immune responses in early and mid-stage trials. The candidate has been moved into a late-stage trial, where it is going to be tested on several thousand people to see if they are effective enough to win regulatory approval. Sinopharm is testing the potential vaccine in the United Arab Emirates in a Phase 3 trial expected to recruit 15000 people, as China has too few new cases to be a useful trial site. Further, the state-owned company will also supply the candidate to Pakistan as part of a trial agreement. (Reuters, “Chinese firm developing virus vaccine will supply to Pakistan,” Dawn, 15 August 2020)

COAS and Bill Gates discuss on Covid-19 and Pakistan’s polio campaign
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa had a telephonic conversation with Co-Chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates. They discussed Pakistan’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic and resumption of the polio campaign. Mr Gates appreciated the role of Pakistan Army for the successful reach and coverage of the programme to the people to which the COAS attributed it to the grassroots workers including mobile teams, law enforcement agencies and healthcare representatives. The Army Chief added that the success was executed through the mechanism of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) which allowed optimisation of resources. Bill Gates reiterated his stand to support Pakistan in its goal of ending polio and improving the health of children. (“COAS, Bill Gates discuss Pakistan’s covid-19 response, polio campaign,” The Express Tribune, 15 August 2020)

INTERNAL
PM optimistic about a “progressing and industrial Pakistan”
While addressing the nation on the occasion of Independence Day, PM Imran Khan stated that he was seeing a “progressing and industrial Pakistan” in future with the government being able to manage the issue of foreign debt retirement and costly electricity generation. He stated, “Although we had a very difficult two years during which we didn’t have foreign exchange and couldn’t pay our debts, things are improving (now) as our stock market is going up, tax collection is increasing, our exports are on the rise despite Covid-19 effects and construction industry has boosted up that will benefit 40 other industries and provide jobs.” Further, he congratulated the nation for coming together and fighting coronavirus however, reiterated that the battle was not over, warning that the people should continue following the SOPs. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM hopeful about emergence of ‘developed, industrial Pakistan’,” Dawn, 15 August 2020)

PROVINCES 
Twin blasts in Balochistan injure five, damage FC van
Balochistan’s Nushki and Mastung districts were rocked by twin blasts on 13 August. The target was a patrolling vehicle of the Frontier Corps in Nushki which was hit by an improvised explosive device on a link road in the Killi Mengal area of the city. No casualties were reported. Police said that the IED was placed under a pushcart which was positioned outside a government-run school. The blast was heard in many parts of Nushki as fear gripped the residents. However, the second blast in Mastung left five injured including a woman and a child. (Abdul Wahid Shahwani, “Five injured, FC van damaged in two Balochistan explosions,” Dawn, 15 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pompeo in his Independence Day message refers to "notable progress in advancing the Afghan peace process"
While extending extends greetings on Independence Day, US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo stated that although there have been many challenges, the United States and Pakistan had made notable progress in advancing the Afghan peace process. Further, he also noted in the cooperation between the two for over 70 on issues of critical importance adding that he is looking forward to strengthening this bilateral partnership “expanding US-Pakistan trade and working together to protect fundamental freedoms in the years to come.” (Anwar Iqbal, “Pompeo hails Islamabad’s role in Afghan peace process,” Dawn, 15 August 2020)

Saudi Ambassador meets CM of Punjab and leaders of Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q)
On 14 August, Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malkiy called on Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and leaders of Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) and some religious parties. The ambassador’s meeting is said to be a part of an effort to mobilise support for his country. Further, a handout issued after the meeting between the Ambassador and CM Buzdar stated that the two also discussed Pak-Saudi relations and promotion of bilateral cooperation. (Amjad Mahmood, “Envoy discuses Pak-Saudi ties with Buzdar, PML-Q leaders,” Dawn, 15 August 2020)

Syed Ali Geelani receives Nishan-e-Pakistan
The leader of the Kashmiri Hurriyat, Syed Ali Geelani was conferred Nishan-e-Pakistan, the country’s highest civil award by the President Dr Arif Alvi. The award was conferred at a special ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr during the 74th Independence Day of Pakistan on 14 August. The award was received by Convenor All Parties Hurriyat Conference Muhammad Hussain Khateeb along with other leaders. The ceremony was attended by various political leaders like Sadiq Sanjrani, Asad Qaiser and others. From 2001 to 2020, Syed Geelani headed the APHC against the Indian government. (“Nishan-e-Pakistan for Syed Ali Geelani,” The Nation, 15 August 2020)
 

(Image Source: The News)

(Image Source: The News)

73 Years: Taking Stock
The emergence of Civil-Military Governance
Faruzan A. Butt in an analysis, reflecting on the day in The News Internationa, has highlighted an important aspect of Pakistan's governance today. She writes: “Today, following the impact of COVID-19, the Pakistani state is seeking to assert itself in spaces hitherto characterized by its absence. From attempting to better map the formal/informal economic sector in lieu of launching the Ehsaas Welfare Program to instituting local governance reforms aimed at enhancing collaborative crisis management, the state, in the wake of an unprecedented disruptive pandemic, has been allowed room to revisit the existing social contract...This echo of blended civil-military governance speaks of a collaborative formula from the days of the pre-Raj Mughal rule in the subcontinent. Thus, the organisational strengths of the military are instrumental in aiding the institution of joint civil-military developmental and humanitarian roles, even as the state struggles to transcend the hurdles of a fractured polity."

She further writes on the failure of the State to construct "powerful symbols that are representative of the political and cultural imaginaries underlying nationhood." According to her, "these symbols which may inspire a diverse collective towards joint action, birthing a spirit of sacrifice and compromise necessary for the realization of a national project. The state’s inability to generate discourse capable of producing such symbols has been compensated, to a degree, by the exercise of affective power by the Pakistani military in establishing itself as the guardian of the nation’s ideological frontiers. Nevertheless, the viability of any state structure rests in its capacity to incorporate counter-cultural voices and alternative discourses, to construct a ‘national’ imaginary which allows for such ideals as unity, faith, and discipline to find purchase. This the Pakistani ‘state’ has repeatedly failed to do, even as past administrations struggled to impose, top-down, a Western understanding of the democratic practice, itself rooted in the bottom-up political agency.

She also writes: "Thus, ‘identity’, for the Pakistani nation, remains a contested term, summarily reduced to a geographic focus whereby territory emerges as the primary determinant of Pakistaniyat. The inability for a national ‘imaginary’ to encompass multiple identities i.e. ethnic, sectarian, class-based, communal etc. is partly a consequence of the state adopting political models which are not equipped to process the interaction of crosscutting identities possessed by the same individual, with each being subject to activation according to the context in which he or she is placed.” (“Military-civil ties: Social contracts and alternative imaginings of the ‘Nation-State’,” The News International, 14 August 2020)

Women in Pakistan Today
Women in Pakistan have had their own share of struggled this year with the outbreak of the pandemic with the fear that the socio-economic benefits which they have worked could be lost again. While domestic violence has continued to increase due to financial constraints and other businesswomen suffer from drastic loss of pay due to inadequate infrastructure and improper transportation since the virus broke out, they have also had to bear the extra burden of house responsibilities with lockdowns being imposed. Further, increased poverty has left women's education at stake for many still do not want to send their girls back to school but to rather send them to earn. However, looking back, the crisis of 1947 or the pandemic of 2020, women in Pakistan have never been lesser heroic than men, with many believing that “No struggle could ever succeed without women participating side by side with men.” Although the road to women's right development has been rusty, women have continued to serve as well as birth fresh beginnings. (Ayesha Khan, “The other half of Pakistan,” The News International, 14 August 2020)

Media in Pakistan Today
From being a single, state-owned Television Channel and Radio, to numerous private networks with dozens of news, entertainment and educational channels as well as the several English and Urdu dailies and the onset of social media have allowed for the news and updates to make their way inside Pakistani households all over the country. The role of Media in Pakistan has thus changed with the times, this fourth pillar of democracy has continued to play a critical role in nation-building, forming narratives as well as stimulating change with the media playing both a pronounced as well as a vicarious role in shaping the newer generations. However, the likelihood of a bigger boom of media revolution a possibility as the country progress as a result of the increasing number of internet and mobile users as well as the huge youth bulge. Thus, the government and concerned authorities will have to ensure that these services are regulated as per international standards. The new media age has already begun, and must not be retrained through red-tapism or superfluous regulatory laws. (Sarmad Zia, “Changing role of media, ”  The News International, 14 August 2020)

Achievements in S&T: The Rise of Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) said to be one of the most respected Research and Development (R&D) organisation has not failed to deliver especially during this challenging time of the pandemic. PAEC started supplying the first line of defence in the form of sanitizers and disinfectants to healthcare facilities immediately after the first few cases were reported. Further, the 18 PAEC hospitals are helping the government address the healthcare needs of Corona-affected patients besides already providing diagnostic and therapeutic facilities to cancer patients. Further, in terms of international cooperation, PAEC started conducting an annual meeting of researchers and scientists in Pakistan. PAEC has taken the initiative of using nuclear technology to improve the productivity of agriculture sector through the introduction of new crop varieties, pest control technologies, plant nutrition, water management, animal health and productivity and food decontamination and preservation. In the use of nuclear energy for generating electricity, PAEC is operating 5 nuclear power plants including KANUPP in Karachi, and C-1, C-2, C-3 and C-4 in Chashma Mianwali which have helped create a thriving community. (Muhammad Aftab Alam, “Serving nation in all spheres of life,”  The News International, 14 August 2020)

What was promised and what has been achieved
Zubeida Mustafa in her analysis in Dawn, has dispassionately looked at what was promised to Pakistan in 1947, and what has been achieved in the last 72 years. Though she was critical, she is still hopeful.

She writes: " What must be remembered is that there were some freedoms we were expecting when Pakistan was created. I will mention them briefly: 1) freedom of thought and expression which the British had not allowed (remember Jallianwala) and we believed we would get; 2) freedom of worship for all faiths (that was promised by the Quaid-i-Azam in his Aug 11, 1947, speech to the Constituent Assembly); 3) freedom from exploitation, a process that colonisation is historically notorious for. Aug 14 is an occasion to introspect, especially for the youth’s sake."

"Unfortunately, we have never been granted these. You will agree if you look at the clampdown on the media — sometimes less and sometimes more but always there — and the blatant efforts made from time to time to turn Pakistan into a theocratic state, something that would inevitably result in discrimination against the non-Muslims and the minority Muslim sects. As for exploitation, one has to see the marginalisation of nearly 60 per cent (the figure might be greater now) of the population that lives below the poverty line and is denied its socioeconomic rights, leaving them with a “nasty, brutish and short” life, to use Thomas Hobbes’ phrase."

"One should not despair. There is a way out. It is, however, a difficult one. Education could have been our only salvation." (Zubeida Mustafa, "A way out," Dawn, 14 August 2020)

What Next: Challenges Ahead                         
Six critical areas of Foreign Policy
A n analysis in the News brings out critical foreign policy areas that Pakistan has to consider. First, the hegemonic contest between the US and China, along with the resultant peaking of clashes with India. Second, the balance of Iran-Saudi rivalry as Islamabad seeks to appease both powers. Third, the peaceful completion of the ongoing Afghan peace process as another Afghan civil war would jeopardise Pakistan’s security. Fourth, the optimum highlighting of the Indo-Pak Kashmir dispute and garnering of maximum global attention for the same. Fifth, implementation of steps to curb terrorism within the nation’s borders and exiting FATF’s “grey-list”. Lastly, ensuring economic development and internal political stability. (“Foreign policy challenges,” The News International, 14 August 2020)

Internal Challenges: A harsh introspection
The editorial in the News International looks at internal challenges of Pakistan such as “rising inflation, poverty, unemployment” and the population’s feeling that the governments lack a plan to save the nation from the lull. The lack of political consensus is worsening issues within the country and the Covid-19 situation. The article urges the population to strive for an egalitarian society that ensures equality, parity and inclusion. The author says that mere survival is insufficient; Pakistan must thrive. (“Independence Day,” The News International, 14 August 2020)

The editorial in the News International critical of the situation states that rising inflation, poverty, unemployment and the lack of faith in the government to address the same are some among the several issues that Pakistan continues to face today. Further, the ongoing sugar crisis and atta crisis suggest proves that the country has not been able to make any progress in the socio-economic sector. The need of the hour is for political parties to stop the bickering and come to terms that an already existing crisis which has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic needs to be addressed. which has been aggravated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The editorial suggests that on this day as the country celebrates Independence Day the mission adopted must be that the country works towards the dream of an egalitarian society so that the further generations can benefit of a country guarantees welfare to all its citizens. Adding it is time to move from mere survival to a time of thriving. (“Independence Day,”  The News International, 14 August 2020)  

In Focus
COAS Gen Bajwa to visit Saudi Arabia soon

As per a Dawn article, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff will visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 16 August, in an attempt to resolve diplomatic strains over the Kashmir issue. The COAS’s visit is to ensure amicable bilateral ties and ensure the promised financial support for Pakistan from Saudi Arabia. (“COAS to visit S. Arabia on 16th,” Dawn, 13 August 2020) (“COAS to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties,” Dawn, 13 August 2020)

Immediate background: Shah Mehmud Qureshi’s statement
Previously, Riyadh was displeased by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmud Qureshi’s unusually sharp remarks to the Saudi-led Organisation of Islamic Countries. The FM warned OIC against dragging its feet on the matter of the Kashmir dispute and asked the organization to convene the Pakistan-requested Foreign Ministers’ meeting (CFM) on Jammu and Kashmir soon. Qureshi also reminded Saudi Arabia of how Pakistan had skipped the Kuala-Lumpur summit led by Turkey and Malaysia (considered an alternative to the OIC by Saudi) on Saudi’s request. Qureshi added that he fully understood the implications of his statement and that he was “taking a position despite our (Pakistan’s) good ties with Saudi Arabia”. Pakistan has been calling for a CFM meeting of the OIC ever since the revocation of Article 370 by the Indian government on 5 August 2019. (“Qureshi asks OIC to stop dragging feet on Kashmir meeting,” Dawn, 6 August 2020) Saudi’s lack of interest in taking up the Kashmir dispute has caused frustration among the ruling elite in Pakistan.

Domestic Criticism of Qureshi
Qureshi’s statements were strongly criticised by National Assembly Opposition leader and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shahbaz Sharif. He called the remarks "highly unfortunate and irresponsible", the height of irresponsibility and a diplomatic folly; tweeted "It flies in the face of history and Pakistan's trusted relationship with the Kingdom"; and said PTI's "cavalier" attitude would undermine Pakistan's core relations with friendly nations. ("Shahbaz assails Qureshi's remarks about Saudi Arabia," Dawn, 8 August 2020) An editorial in the Dawn criticised Qureshi's blunt criticism and the Foreign Office's statement regarding the clarity of foreign policy goals. The editorial states that the PM should explain the Pakistan’s road map, given the many geostrategic blocs in the Muslim world. The author asks if Pakistan intends to ally with any existing formations, or aims to create a new bloc with like-minded states? The article adds that Pakistan must take a moral stand without annoying its friends and benefactors. ("OIC criticism," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

The traditional allies
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are states that have been traditionally close. In 2018, Riyadh gave a $3 billion loan and $3.2bn oil credit facility to Pakistan. This was to aid Islamabad during its payment crisis. In addition to this, the 1.5 million Pakistani nationals residing in Saudi send back the most remittances to Pakistan. Over 27.5 per cent of total remittances comes from Saudi Arabia, followed by UAE (18.2%), US (14.4%) and UK (9.9%). (Asha Gul and Mahreen Mahmud, “Remittances from Saudi Arabia: A Community phenomenon,” Pakistan Institute of Development Economics) Pakistan and Saudi had also discussed expansion in defense cooperation, in March this year. (“Pakistan, Saudi Arabia discuss expansion in defence cooperation,” Dawn, 3 March 2020) Further, despite the pandemic, Riyadh became one among the top Middle Eastern export destinations for Pakistani goods. Exports to KSA increased by 34 per cent in June 2020 compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

#AttacksWontSilenceUs
Women journalists seek protection against “vicious attacks” on social media
A group of well-known female journalists and commentators in Pakistan issued a joined statement in which they have sought protection against what they termed “vicious attacks” directed towards them via social media allegedly by people linked to the PTI government. The statement which is said to be signed by 30 female journalists belonging to various media outlets and mediums, also stated that the attacks were making it “incredibly difficult” for them to carry out their professional duties. (“Women journalists seek protection against attacks on social media,” Dawn, 13 August 2020)

The statement shared on Twitter with hashtag #AttacksWontSilenceUs, said “The target of these attacks is women with differing viewpoints and those whose reports have been critical of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government, and more specifically its handling of the coronavirus pandemic,” further adding that these online attacks were initiated by government officials and then amplified by a large number of Twitter accounts.
Benazir Shah, Asma Shirazi, Mehmal Sarfaraz, Amber Rahim Shamsi and Reema Omer are some who have signed the statement among other women journalists and analysts.

Nature of the abuse
According to the declaration, personal details of women journalists and analysts had been made public while in some cases, their pictures and videos had been morphed. Further, many other them were referred to use as peddlers of “fake news”, “enemy of the people” and accused of other such things. Further, others were targeted for their gender, posting gender-based insults and threats of sexual and physical violence on their social media. More recently, attempts to hack into these journalists' social media accounts have also occurred. As a result of this climate of abuse and threats, these journalists were forced to self-censor, filtering their views as they were prevented from exercising their right to free speech and participate in public discourse.

Calls for accountability
The statement demanded that the government “immediately restrain its members from repeatedly targeting women in the media” and “send out a clear message to all party members to desist from launching these attacks, whether directly or indirectly”. Further, it also asked the government to “hold all such individuals within the government accountable and take action against them”. Further, the statement also called on the National Assembly and Senate standing committees on human rights to take notice of the threatening environment. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalist (PFUJ) strongly condemned these attacks, expressing solidarity with the women journalist. PFUJ president Shahzada Zulfiqar and secretary-general Nasir Zaidi went on to demanded that the FIA’s cybercrime wing immediately identify the offenders behind these attacks.

Trolls and hate
An analysis in Dawn while being critical of the issue looks into the psyche behind this not only futile but is a counterproductive action. What does one achieve from by engaging in abuse? Ultimately, it’s futile to use abuse as a weapon in social engagements. Noting that a large number of young men who are being encouraged to engage in abusive and threatening behaviour against the critics of the government are growing increasingly frustrated, and searching for new ways to escalate their hateful conduct. Further, adding that what is even worse is that this behaviour has been normalised from the very top. This toxic behaviour will stunt the growth and development of those young men who are been encouraged to involve in such activities. To address the issue the analysis states that what is needed is a top to bottom approach, starting with the prime minister to loudly and visibly start discouraging this behaviour, followed by condemnation of it then penalties, arrests and prosecution. (Khurram Husain, “Trolls and hate,” Dawn, 13 August 2020)

Media continues to be under siege
Although there is exposure today with a high level of awareness at both the national and international levels on the media freedom within Pakistan it has however not been sufficient enough to deter those who target the media. The attackers almost always getaway. Further, the problem is twofold, not is the media targeted by the country's "deep state," which cannot stand independent journalism, has increased dramatically since Imran Khan became prime minister in July 2018" but also are targeted by non-State actors – from the militant groups to extreme Right, groups who have targeting seniors, journalists, for their liberal views and anti-extremists writings/postings. (“Media under siege: Who is targeting the journalists? And why?,” Pakistan Reader, 28 July 2020)

NA Passed five more FATF bills
On 12 August, five more FATF- related law passed through the National Assembly. The bills that were the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, the Limited Liability Partnership (Amendment) Bill, the Companies (Amendment) Bill, the Control of Narcotic Substances (Amendment) Bill, and the ICT Trust Bill.

The opposition objected Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s speech, and said, they had initially linked the passage of the legislation of national importance to changes in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Ordinance during National Assembly. Minister also called, PPP MNA, Agha Rafiullah an “immature” parliamentarian. (“Opposition again helps govt pass FATF-elated laws”, Dawn, 13 August 2020)

The Minister exclaimed that there were no objections from the opposition over the bill and this was confirmed by main parties like PPP and PML-N. However, the Balochistan National Party (Mengal) opposed the clauses of the bill. The BNP-Mengal chief asked the government to clarify the definition of terrorism and questioned the bill on grounds of who can be stated be declared as a terrorist and highlighted the possible misuse of the bill. (Javaid-ur-Rahman, “NA passes 5 Amend Bills,” The Nation, 13 August 2020)
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Sindh has completely failed: CJP                                           
The Supreme Court of Pakistan had expressed its displeasure over the dismal state of cleanliness in the city of Karachi, observing that the Sindh government had failed the province. The three-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Faisal Arab and Justice Ijazul Ahsan heard the case of illegal encroachments on drains at SC Karachi Registry. The Chief Justice told the advocate general Sindh that the Sindh provincial government had “turned Karachi into a goth” and exclaimed the presence of mosquitoes being prevalent. Although the advocate general stated that the issue will be rectified in two months, the Chief Justice shot a question asking how long the government has been in power. The CJP also asked about the public-private partnership boards set on highways in Sindh. He further grew critical of the corrupt elements on the ground that has made it difficult for the people of Karachi. (“CJP says Sindh has completely failed,” The Nation, 13 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi response to Loya Jirga recommendation on the release of prisoners
On 12 August, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said, “Afghan leadership should seize this historic opportunity to achieve a comprehensive, broad-based and inclusive political settlement in Afghanistan”. As the decree for the release of the prisoner has been signed. He also said, “the success of the peace process would not only bring peace to Afghanistan but would also ensure stability in the region”. (“Kabul urged to seize opportunity for peace”, Dawn, 13 August 2020)

The US mediation
The editorial of the Dawn has been introspective of Pakistan’s approach to the United States and other ‘influential’ states to mediate between the country and India over Kashmir. It states that historically, the US has not prioritised much on South Asia regional complexities unless the issues on ground blew out of proportion. For example, the Kargil conflict of 1999 pushed the US to try and resolve the crisis. The editorial also states that the US plays a non-committal role in the region when candidates are preoccupied with domestic issues in the background of the elections. It acknowledges the presence of an active Indian-American lobby that makes the US avoid talking on important aspects concerning India and Pakistan. Rather, it suggests the Pakistan Government to engage with the US after the Presidential elections. The editorial has also been critical of India’s stance on Kashmir which the country calls as a ‘bilateral’ dispute in which the third party mediation is not welcomed. Citing this as a problem, the editorial suggests Pakistan to not depend on others to improve its ties with India. (“US mediation,” Dawn, 13 August 2020) 

ON INDIA
Pakistan Intelligence agency says Cyber-attack by India
On 12 August 2020, Inter-Services Public Relations said, “Pakistan’s intelligence agencies have identified a major cyberattack by Indian intelligence agencies involving a range of cybercrimes, including deceitful fabrication by hacking personal mobiles and technical gadgets of government officials and military personnel”. As no further details have been given by the military. They also said, “Various targets of Hostile Intelligence Agencies are being investigated. Pakistan Army has further enhanced necessary measures to thwart such activities including action against violators of Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) on cybersecurity”. (“Intelligence agencies identify cyber-attack by India”, The Nation, 13 August 2020)

On the recent report by “Pakistan Outlook 2020”, said, The APT activity was deeply connected with geo-political situation, current events, and government priorities. It also highlighted, “With a right-wing fascist regime in power in India, such campaigns have increased and are more likely”. (“Probe into cyberattack by Indian spy networks launched”, Dawn, 13 August 2020)

Pakistan's World View
Biden’s Running Mate                                                                                    
The editorial of The Nation has been critical of the United States on various issues in its relationship with Pakistan. It starts on the note that the domestic audience in the US may find many differences between the political manifestos of Republican and Democratic parties. However, in view of the country’s foreign policy, many countries, particularly the ones invaded by the US virtually perceive it as the same. The editorial adds that many in Pakistan feared a change in its relationship with the US after Donald Trump became the President. But with just a couple of months to go for yet another presidential election, it has been perceived that Trump was neither the best nor the worst for Pakistan. On the issue of human rights, the editorial points out at the silence of the US over Indian activities in Jammu and Kashmir similar to that of Israel’s actions over Gaza. It has also stated the bonhomie between Trump and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi that has made the former to maintain distance from the Kashmir issue. It is not just the Republicans, but the Democrats have also been criticized for maintaining a similar stand on Kashmir since the beginning of Cold War. Thus, the editorial has analysed the importance of Kamala Harris as the running mate for presidential nominee Joe Biden and anticipates that the voter base consisting of African-American and Indian-Americans which would not only make Biden a tough challenger for Trump but could play a role in the Subcontinent. (“Biden’s Running Mate”, The Nation, 13 August 2020)

In Focus
Government and opposition agree on six FATF bills

New Consensus
On 11 August, the government and the opposition succeeded in reaching a consensus on six out of eight FATF-related laws, thus opening the way for their smooth passage from the National Assembly which is to take place today. Senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Syed Naveed Qamar stated, “Yes, we have reached an understanding as the government has accepted almost all our amendments.” Further, he added that the government had agreed to defer the remaining two bills namely the Anti-Money Laundering (Second Amendment) Bill 2020 and the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2020 for which discussions would be held later on. (“Govt, opposition reach consensus on six FATF-related bills,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

Bills on the agenda
The National Assembly Secretariat issued a 16-point agenda for the sitting on and it contains the six agreed bills. The bills on which the two sides have reached an understanding are the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Limited Liability Partnership (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Companies (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Control of Narcotic Substances (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Control of Narcotics Substances (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Islamabad Capital Territory Waqf Properties Bill 2020 and the Islamabad Capital Territory Trust Bill 2020.

Leading up
This breakthrough decision was achieved after a meeting between the government and the opposition representatives at a meeting which was held at the official residence of Speaker on 11 July, a day after the government decided to defer the presentation of five bills to meet the conditions of the FATF and engage the opposition parties through the speaker with whose efforts the government had previously managed to get three such bills approved through parliament. (Amir Wasim, “Govt defers presentation of FATF-related bills in NA,” Dawn, 11 August 2020) Opposition members from both the PPP and PML-N had declared their disapproval by terming the bills ‘draconian’, beyond FATF requirements, with leader stating that they will not only oppose the FATF-related bills in the committees but also the parliament. Further, after the relentless protest by the JUI-F members in the National Assembly the government also invited the party for the talks.

Maryam Nawaz’s car damaged in front of the NAB Office: PML-N wants to file FIR against PM, NAB chairman

What happened?
On 11 August, with the arrival of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s vice president Maryam Nawaz in relation to a land acquisition investigation, PML-N workers and heavy police contingents confronted each other causing violence outside the office of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) that injured many workers and some officials. The police hurled back stones and fired tear gas at the activists and arrested over two dozen men. Each side held the other responsible for triggering the violence. Later, Ms Maryam posted a video of the broken windshield of her bulletproof car and accused the PTI government of attempting to “harm” her; the Chung police charged 300 PML-N activists, including Ms Maryam and 187 nominated people for inciting violence, damaging NAB’s building and attacking NAB personnel and law enforcers. When NAB asked Maryam to return, she insisted that they record her statement in this new “false” case and accused them of unnecessarily harming her party workers. (“Police, PML-N workers clash outside Lahore NAB office,” Dawn, 12 August 2020) (“Acts Of Vandalism,” The Nation, 12 August 2020)

Meanwhile, according to PML-N information secretary Marriyum Aurangzeb, the party would have to move the Lahore High Court (LHC) to register a FIR as Chung police were not complying. Presently, PML-N has filed an application against NAB chairman Javed Iqbal, PM Imran Khan, PM’s adviser Shahzad Akbar and the Punjab provincial government for attempting to kill Ms Nawaz.

Reactions, from PML-N Hooliganism to NAB’s terrorism
According to Punjab Law Minister Basharat Raja, the PML-N derived this hooliganism plan to secure relief. Maryam Nawaz called it “NAB’s terrorism”. Speaking at Model Town, she claimed to have experienced “state terrorism” and torture for the first time. PPP Senator Sherry Rehman also took to Twitter to express her horror. “Shocking and condemnable behaviour by Punjab police at Maryam Nawaz’s vehicles at the NAB premises. What messages (are) being given out? That even the security of political opponents of this regime is under threat?”, she wrote. Meanwhile, over-enthusiastic PTI ‘spokespersons’ became hyperactive in the media. Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Shibli Faraz criticised PML-N for staging a ‘drama’. SAPM on Political Communication Shahbaz Gill also lashed out at Maryam. (“Batons, stones, shells, chaos as Maryam arrives for a NAB date,” The News International, 12 August 2020) Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman said such an attitude could not be tolerated in politics. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, PPP’s chairperson, condemned the police for torturing political workers. He tweeted, “Condemn the unnecessary use of force, teargas and stone-pelting on Maryam Nawaz and her party workers by police in Lahore today”. (“Opposition leaders condemn ‘attack’ on Maryam Nawaz in Lahore,” The Nation, 12 August 2020)

What does it mean?
As PML-N claims, is the NAB-Niazi nexus scared of facing Maryam Nawaz? Are PML-N supporters and diehard loyalists of Nawaz Sharif willing to take to the streets to support and protect PML-N? Whatever it is, PTI’s story and accusations did not hold ground as Maryam had promptly uploaded images and videos of the state of her vehicle’s windshield due to attacks by the police. Noteworthily, during the house discussions following the event, none of the PTI leaders dared to insist that Maryam should have gone to the NAB without a crowd. FM Shah Mehmud Qureshi guardedly expressed that the police may have overreacted and sought time from PML-N to collect details on the matter. Interestingly, the PEMRA-regulated 24/7 national channels underplayed the happenings of 11 August. To consider intra-PML-N aspects, the members seem to prefer Shahbaz Sharif’s more ‘pragmatic’ approach to Maryam’s ‘hawkish’ stance. Maryam’s backseat approach after Nawaz’s departure seemed to tell PML-N MNAs that the father-daughter duo approved of 
Shahbaz Sharif’s political strategy. But NAB’s summoning of Maryam and her arrival with a large pool of her supporters is sure to confuse the PML-N at large. (“‘Deliberately created a scene’,” The Nation, 12 August 2020)

NAB had summoned the PML-N vice president to record her statement for the investigation of the illegal land acquisition of 3,500 kanals in Raiwind by Nawaz Sharif, Shahbaz Sharif, Shamim Akhtar and herself.

Geo-strategic and national security issues discussed at the 234th Corps Commanders’ Conference
On 11 August, a statement released by the ISPR stated that the 234th Corps Commanders’ Conference presided by General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) discussed geo-strategic and national security issues with the forum reviewing the situation at LOC, Pak-Afghan border and internal security environment. Further, the COAS also expressed satisfaction on operational preparedness in aid of civil administration to contain COVID-19 pandemic and the locust threat. (“Corps Commanders Conference: Geo-strategic, national security issues discussed,” The Nation, 11 August 2020)

Further, the statement added, “Forum appreciated the progress of Afghan Reconci­liation Process and hoped for early commencement of intra-Afghan dialogue.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Commanders call for early start of intra-Afghan dialogue,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

A day earlier, on Monday, Gen Bajwa visited the ISI HQ. According to the ISPR statement, "COAS was given a detailed update on the internal and external security situation of the country. COAS appreciated the measures to optimize the performance of ISI, ensuring that country responds effectively to threats across the spectrum. Earlier on arrival, COAS was received by Lieutenant General Faiz Hamid, Director General ISl" (ISPR Press Release)

In Brief
INTERNAL
Minister says that Covid-19 situation in Pakistan is better than neighbours
Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar said that the Covid-19 situation in Pakistan was much better than that of countries in the region, but also cautioned that laxity in precautions could put Pakistan in a similar position. While addressing the press conference, Mr Umar said that the positivity rate was around three per cent and differed from Iran’s 9.4 per cent and India’s 9.8 per cent for the same. The minister said that the pandemic was not just a health issue but also an economic one where the country’s exports saw a decrease of over 40 per cent and the remittances fell to around 40 per cent equal to employment. Mr Umar quoted “So far we have traced 1.1 million people through the TTQ system and tested over a million. More than 100,000 patients from among the country’s positive cases were identified through TTQ. These people benefitted from early treatment and took precautions which prevented the virus from spreading.” He also mentioned that the country is heading towards micro smart lockdowns meaning that only certain houses would be placed under lockdown instead of entire areas. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan’s Covid-19 situation better than that of neighbours: minister,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

SC moved to declare the appointment of SAPM as illegal
On 11 August, the Supreme Court was requested to declare the appointment of eight special assistants and one adviser to the prime minister as illegal and unconstitutional on the ground of holding dual nationality and ordered the withdrawal of notifications appointing them to the post. Further, the appeal made before the SC argued that the Cabinet Division had recently issued details of assets and dual nationalities of 20 advisers and SAPMs, adding that the notification showed that of the 19 non-elected cabinet members, four SAPMs held dual nationality. This petition was made after the appeal filed by Advocate Malik Munsif Awan through his counsel Mohammad Ikram Chaudhry, who had challenged the appointments in the Islamabad high court was rejected on 30 July. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC moved to declare appointment of PM’s aides illegal,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

PROVINCES
Suicide attack in South Waziristan injures brigadier and three soldiers
On 11 August, a brigadier and three soldiers were wounded in a suicide attack in the Ladha area of South Waziristan tribal district. Officers have stated that the attack took place when the officer of 24 Mechanised Brigade was going from Makeen to Wana, when a suicide bomber blew himself up close to his vehicle near Badar bridge, leaving the brigadier and three soldiers wounded. Further, members of security forces moved quickly to the scene and started a search operation. (Dilawar Wazir, “Brigadier, three soldiers injured in suicide attack,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

ECONOMY
Fiscal deficit stands at 8.1 per cent of the GDP 
Data released by the Ministry of Finance has out the country’s total budget deficit at Rs3.376 trillion in the fiscal year ending 30 June 2020 which is 8.1 per cent of GDP. This deficit is lower than last year’s 8.9 per cent which was the highest in four decades. The ministry, as well as the IMF, had earlier projected deficit at around 9.1 per cent and 9.2 per cent respectively, however, the almost one per cent lower than anticipated figure is said to be mainly because of underutilisation of Prime Minister’s Economic Relief and Support Package. (Khaleeq Kiani, “FY20 sees fiscal deficit at 8.1pc,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
Saudi-Pak relations are unique
An opinion written by Adeela Naureen and Umar Waqar on relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. They had highlighted on the importance of Pakistan’s position in the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) guided by the spirit of Islamic fraternity and brotherhood, with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the “fountainhead” of the OIC’s existence. The authors mentioned about the historical background of the bilateral relationship since 1947 where the two countries forged healthy links for joint development. They state that the constitutions of both countries are based on the Quran and Sunnah. Throughout history, issues concerning Kashmir had remained a cornerstone in their relationship. They have also mentioned about the importance of the royal family as custodians of two holy mosques in Pakistan. Lyallpur was renamed as Faisalabad to honour King Faisal. The economic relations also saw Saudi Arabia is the largest supplier of oil to Pakistan. The authors stated the importance of the two million-strong Pakistani diaspora in the Kingdom who contribute vital remittances back to their home country. In the last six years, Saudi Arabia has contributed to higher education and madrasa reforms, defence and other projects. (Adeela Naureen and Umar Waqar, “Saudi-Pak relations are unique,” The Nation, 12 August 2020)

Nothing unusual about Saudi loan return: Shibli
Information Minister Shibli Faraz said that Pakistan has valued its relationship with Saudi Arabia. While addressing the media in Islamabad following the federal cabinet, he dispelled the speculations that Pakistan’s relations with Saudi Arabia has deteriorated and stated that the loans are meant to be returned and there is nothing unusual about it. Shibli said that the cabinet was informed that the policy of encouraging exports and discouraging unnecessary imports had paid dividends. He mentioned about the prudent economic policies of the Government because of which the State Bank of Pakistan foreign exchange reserves had increased from $8.5 billion to $12.5 billion. While stating that the economic wheel had begun to move, Mr Shibli noted that there had been an increase in sales of cement, the consumption of petrol went up to eight per cent and diesel by 15 per cent. (Mumtaz Alvi, “Nothing unusual about Saudi loan return: Shibli,” The News International, 12 August 2020)

Trump’s actions on Iran has pushed the country closer to China
In 2013 Presidential elections in Iran, Hassan Rouhani announced that he would negotiate with the United States as the “headman of the village”. However, seven years later, the bilateral relations between the two countries have deteriorated significantly and Rouhani is left with negotiating a 25-year accord with China. Being a moderate face in Iran, Rouhani won the election in 2013 promising de-escalation of tensions with the US and the West which was a sharp contrast to his predecessor, Mahmoud Ahmedinejad widely seen as someone who moved closer to Russia and China. The shift has led to a rivalry between Western-minded reformists and Pro-China hardliners. Even the policy of Mohammad Khatami, the predecessor of Ahmedinejad was to move closer to the European Union. But currently, Rouhani’s hard-line opponents criticized him for ignoring the East. This sentiment has found its roots in two factors – the authoritarian governance in Russia and China as well as the extensive trade relations between groups in Iran and China. These were the forces Rouhani had to manage while negotiating with former US President Barack Obama. In Trump’s tenure, Rouhani has been forced to follow the stance of the hard liners due to the crippling sanctions imposed on Iran. Although the draft of 25-year agreement was approved by the Iranian cabinet on 21 June, there has been a growing public concern over a possible military component of the detail. (“Trump has pushed Iran into China’s arms,” The News International, 12 August 2020)

ON INDIA
Pakistan seeks US assistance in reducing tensions with India
On 11 August, Pakistan had sought assistance from the United States to play a role in de-escalating tensions with India. A call was made during virtual consultations between Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood and US Under Secretary for Political Affairs Ambassador David Hale. Mr Mahmood had said that it was imperative to take steps to prevent escalation of tensions and to facilitate a peaceful resolution of the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir. He had also said, “India’s continuing military siege in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and its aggressive posturing against Pakistan pose a threat to peace and security.” The Foreign Office released a statement that the foreign secretary had reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process and hoped that the Afghan parties would seize the opportunity towards an inclusive and comprehensive political solution through intra-Afghan negotiations. Mr Mahmood had reiterated Pakistan’s desire to “forge a strong and mutually beneficial economic cooperation” with the United States. (“Pakistan urges US to help de-escalate tensions with India,” Dawn, 12 August 2020)

Kashmir’s case
An opinion was put forth by Zia Ullah Ranjah on India’s decision to withdraw the special status conferred to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. Through the presidential order, all the privileges like the state constitution, flag, laws – have been eradicated. The author highlights the UNSC Resolution of 1948 to acknowledge the area as a contested territory and the permanent status would be determined by a referendum. He added that the UNSC resolutions of 1951 and 1957 reprimanded India’s unilateral attempts to modify the special status of the state. Also, the UN announced the territory under the control of both India and Pakistan as the ceasefire line following the Shimla Agreement of 1972. Ranjah states Clause 1(ii) of the Agreement which declares that neither sides shall unilaterally alter the situation. Clause 6 underlined that both the states should discuss modalities for conclusive resolution of the state via peaceful ways. With this background, Ranjah mentions that Pakistan can pursue Kashmir’s case before UNSC, UNHRC, ICJ and ICC. He stated that Pakistan should lay stress on the UNSC to play its role to enforce its resolutions regarding the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people, while also emphasizing human rights in the area. (Zia Ullah Ranjah, “The Kashmir’s case,” The News International, 12 August 2020)

In Focus
Pakistan hosts the UNGA President-elect and expects him to mediate on Kashmir

Volkan Bozkir, Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Imran Khan discusssions also include Kashmir
On 10 August, Volkan Bozkir, the first Turkish citizen to become United Nations General Assembly’s President-elect, spoke at Pakistan Foreign Office alongside Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

According to Dawn, he emphasized the importance and need of a peaceful political resolution of the “Jammu and Kashmir dispute” to ensure regional security and peace. Following the meeting with the FM Qureshi and Prime Minister Imran Khan, the President-elect said “Resolving dispute over Jammu and Kashmir is the key to sustainable peace in South Asia. Regional security should be maintained through regional and diplomatic solutions.” He also announced the appointment of a Pakistani diplomat as his deputy cabinet chief. According to the PMO, during the meeting between PM Khan and the PGA, the former spoke of the “the dire human rights and humanitarian situation” and systemic rights violations in Kashmir since the revocation of Article 370; stressed need for UN to play “its rightful role”; and asked UN to prioritise Islamophobia, climate change, debt relief issues for developing countries and combating the illicit flow of money. (“Top UN official urges Kashmir dispute resolution,” Dawn, 11 August 2020)

The ‘Impartial’ Mediation Offer
Bozkir offered to mediate, within his mandate, if requested by the disputing parties – India and Pakistan. “Difficult challenges can be resolved peacefully and satisfactorily through meaningful mutual engagement,” he said. Underscoring the restraint, he had to maintain by the rule of impartiality he had to observe, the UNGA head said that understanding Pakistan’s position on Kashmir was one of the intentions behind the Pakistan visit. Strikingly though, he said he wouldn’t forget the fact that he is a “Turkish citizen and brother of Pakistan in that respect”. Qureshi said he “minced no words” while briefing Bozkir about the sentiment of Pakistan with regards to the Kashmir issue; expressed his desire to have a Kashmir debate in the “pulse of the world” UNGA; and vowed to collect other nations to prove the need for a UNGA discussion on J&K to the PGA. (“Ready to discuss if requested: UN President: Imran again asks for UN role on Kashmir,” The News International,11 August 2020)

The OIC Context
The PGA’s visit comes less than a week after FM Qureshi’s unusually sharp statement warning the Saudi-led Organization of Islamic Countries to convene the Pakistan-requested Foreign Ministers’ meeting on Jammu and Kashmir soon and not drag its feet on the matter. The FM also reminded Saudi Arabia of how Pakistan skipped the Kuala-Lumpur summit led by Turkey and Malaysia (considered an alternative to the Saudi-led OIC) on Saudi’s request. Qureshi said he fully understood the implications of his statement and that he was “taking a position despite our (Pakistan’s) good ties with Saudi Arabia”. The nationality of the PGA and his Turkey-Pakistan brethren remark may not go down well with Saudi Arabia

The UNGA head is in Pakistan for a two-day visit. It is his third overseas trip since being elected in June 2020. The UNGA head is in Pakistan for a two-day visit. It is his third overseas trip since being elected in June 2020.

Heated political attacks over FATF bills within Pakistan

Bills passed thus far
Amid the growing divide, the government managed to pass three Financial Action Task Force (FATF) related bills namely the Anti-Terrorism Bill 2020, United Nations (Security Council) Amendment Bill 2020 and Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal Matters) Bill 2020. However, nine proposed laws are still to be addressed as the time is running out with the country already having used the five-month grace period because of COVID-19. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Legal jigsaw and FATF,” Dawn, 10 August 2020) Further, the National Assembly on 10 August were to take up five more FATF related bill which was the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Limited Liability Partnership (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Companies (Amendment) Bill 2020 and the Control of Narcotic Substances (Amend­ment) Bill 2020 however, the government deferred the presentation of these bills and decided to hold talks with the opposition parties. (Amir Wasim, “Govt defers presentation of FATF-related bills in NA,” Dawn, 11 August 2020)

Resistance from the opposition emerges again
The opposition has strongly criticised the government by stating that it vows to resist the move, terming the bills ‘draconian’, beyond FATF requirements. The leaders of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have stated that they will not only oppose the FATF-related bills in the committees but also in the parliament. PLM-N members have claimed that the clauses are being pushed through the bill were not the conditions of the FATF and further, these bills should not be passed in haste but should be pursued in consultation with the business community. On the other hand, the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leader who have unwaveringly opposed the bills stated that said the legislation would provide legal cover from handing over Kulbhushan Jadhav to India, Shakeel Afridi to the US and blasphemy accused to foreign countries, adding that the legislation mortgaged Pakistan’s freedom and sovereignty and handed over the economy to the IMF. (Amir Wasim, “Fireworks in NA likely over more FATF-related bills,” Dawn, 10 August 2020) (“JI leader rejects legislation under FATF pressure, announces protest campaign,” The News International, 10 August 2020)

Quotable
PPP’s vice president Sherry Rehman stated, “We will oppose the bills both for process and lack of scrutiny of the contents,” declaring, “This is not the way to bulldoze the bills at the last minute.”

PML-N vice president Khurram Dastagir Khan stated that through the “draconian laws”, the government is “strangulating businessmen as every transaction would become a minefield,” adding that “The government is now trying to over-compensate FATF due to its incompetence and delay in the legislative process,” further calling these legislations “unconstitutional”.

FATF Action Plan
Pakistan is required to submit a performance report by August 2020 after the country was given a five-month grace period by the FATF to submit the report on to complete its 27-point action plan against money laundering and terror financing committed when it noted that Pakistan had delivered on 14 points and missed 13 other targets. Since then the government has tried to fast-track the agenda to no be put on the list of monitored jurisdiction, commonly known as the watchdog’s blacklist. (“FATF grants unexpected relief to Pakistan amid pandemic,” Dawn, 8 April 2020)
 

PM Imran Khan stresses on stronger ties with the Maldives

On 11 August, PM Imran Khan in a telephonic conversation with the President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih underlined the need for stronger ties between the two countries. A statement released by the Prime Minister Office (PMO) noted, “The prime minister reaffirmed Pakis­tan’s desire to work with the Maldives to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, bilaterally and in the region.” Further, Solih in a tweeted stated, “Had a very engaging phone conversation with Pakistan’s PM Imran Khan this afternoon in which we updated each other on COVID 19 measures in our respective countries and also, how we could further enhance the already warm and fraternal relations between Maldives and Pakistan.” (“PM underlines need for stronger ties with Maldives,” Dawn, 11 August 2020)

Rekindled talks
This conversation between the two heads of state came after the Maldives had foiled Pakistan plan for constituting an informal group of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation envoys at the United Nations on Islamophobia.

This is the second such made call by PM Imran Khan, who last month held his first telephonic conversation with PM Hasina Wajed where he expressed his desire for “closer and fraternal” relations with Bangladesh. This telephonic conversation had come after months of efforts to normalise ties between the two countries after years of strife. During the call, he emphasised on the importance of establishing closer ties with Bangladesh and also highlighted the significance of regular bilateral contacts and people-to-people exchanges, further reiterating his commitment to SAARC and the importance of both countries working for enhanced regional cooperation for sustainable peace and prosperity. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “In rare call to Hasina, Imran urges closer ties with Bangladesh,” Dawn, 23 July 2020)
 

In Brief
PROVINCE
Chaman blast kills five and injures 22
On 10 August, at least five people were killed and 22 others including two soldiers of the Anti-narcotics Force (ANF) were injured in the border town of Chaman in Balochistan province. A stated by security official the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) which was planted on a motorcycle parked near a market in the busy Mall Road of the town. The IED was triggered using a remote control. Upon receiving the information on the blast, the police, Levies force and Frontier Corps were deployed as they launched a rescue operation after cordoning off the area. Official sources have stated that there was a threat alert following a border incident in Chaman on 30 July in which six people were killed in clashes between the security forces and the angry mob. PM Imran Khan and other political elites like Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Shahbaz Sharif, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani and others condemned the blast. (Saleem Shahid, “Five killed in Chaman motorbike bomb blast,” Dawn, 11 August 2020)

“Go home if you do not have authority; why are you sitting as a mayor?” Chief Justice to Karachi Mayor
On 10 August, the Supreme Court of Pakistan censured the authorities responsible for gross mismanagement in Karachi. The bench reproached Karachi Mayor Wasim Akhtar and asked him to leave his post by 28 August. After listening to the case of billboards, CJP had asked Commissioner Karachi Iftikhar Shalwani, to submit a report on the matter and directed the officials to remove all the billboards and signboards from the city. (“Where is writ of Sindh, asks CJP”, The Nation, 11 August 2020)

EXTERNAL       
Saudi Ambassador calls on COAS General Bajwa
Ambassador of Saudi Arabia Nawaf Saeed Al-Malkiy called on Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa at GHQ, Rawalpindi on 10 August. Issues of mutual interest, regional security situation and bilateral defence relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan were discussed during the meeting. The COAS had also visited the Headquarters of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) where he was briefed about the country’s internal and external security situation. (Muhammad Anis, “Saudi Envoy calls on COAS,” The News International, 11 August 2020)

The Emirates to expand its operations in Pakistan
The Emirates is all set to increase the passenger service to and from Pakistan on 10 August and has offered enhanced connectivity to over 70 destinations via Dubai. The flight frequency would be ramped up to and from Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and Sialkot and resume passenger service to Peshawar. The airline will now operate 53 weekly flights to Pakistan which will increase to 60 starting from 16 August. Karachi is set to become even busier with 28 weekly flights followed by Islamabad and Lahore with ten weekly flights, seven weekly flights to Sialkot and five to Peshawar. However, given the Covid-19 pandemic, the airlines reminded its passengers of the criteria to be met to board the flight. Covid-19 PCR tests were mandatory for all inbound and transit passengers arriving in Dubai. (Mohammad Asghar, “Emirates to expand its service in Pakistan,” Dawn, 11 August 2020)

WATER DISPUTE
Annual Permanent Indus Commission ‘virtual’ meeting declined by Pakistan 
On 11 August, Pakistan rejected India’s proposal for holding the virtual meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission. Soon after India's disagreement on the proposed meeting at Atari, due to Covid-19. The Permanent Indus Commission aims to establish and maintain a co-operative arrangement between the two countries and to promote co-operation in the development of the waters of the rivers. According to Article VIII (5), the annual meetings held between Pakistan Commissioner and Indian Commissioner, alternately in Pakistan and India before 1st June. (“Pakistan rejects India proposal for Indus Commission virtual meeting”, The Nation, 11 August 2020)

ON CPEC
The impact of CPEC on federalism and inter-provincial harmony in Pakistan
The analysis is the review of Boni and Adeney’s 2020 paper for the ‘Asian Survey’ and highlights how CPEC is having an impact on federalism and inter-provincial harmony in Pakistan. CPEC is playing a “centripetal force” role in the federal structure, but the huge external investments are not addressing any inter-provincial disparities. The projects such as early harvest project, transport and infrastructure project, and energy project in the country is brought in light. 

As in the first phase, of early harvest project, the majority of projects of Sindh 41 per cent and Punjab 21 per cent were completed, as compared to the projects of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. While in the transport and infrastructure projects in Punjab and Sindh have been completed whereas Balochistan and 60 per cent of projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are still estimated to be completed after 2022. In the energy sector, 91 per cent of Sindh project to complete by 2021, as compared to the least progress of projects in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and GB (“Federalism and CPEC”, The News International, 11 August 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
On Afghanistan, an editorial says, "The ball is now in the Afghan Taliban’s court"
On 10 August, Afghanistan Loya Jirga recommended freeing 400 Taliban prisoners. The issue was dissolved after a three-day Loya Jirga, with 3200 influential and politicians, who spoke in favour of ‘extending an olive branch to the Taliban by freeing their remaining fighters’. Following to Jirga, President Ashraf Ghani also signed a decree to release these prisoners. Dr Abdullah Abdullah, one of the heads of the Loya Jirga, declared “We are on the verge of peace talks,”. As now one of the major demands has been met. The analysis highlighted, “The Taliban and The Afghan government must now take full advantage of the situation to start a meaningful dialogue, as this window of opportunity, may not last long”. (“Loya Jirga’s advice”, Dawn, 11 August 2020)

Another editorial in The News International, the release of the prisoners suits the US purpose, at the given time. It says, “it is unfortunate that the people of Afghanistan have become hostage to Washington’s demands”. (“On the way to peace”, The News International, 11 August 2020) Also, on 09 August, Afghan security forces arrested 11 Islamic State members, who were aiming to attack the Loya Jirga.

In Brief
The FATF divides within Pakistan

Govt plans to pass five FATF bills amid resistance from the opposition
The National Assembly is to witness another round of proceedings as the government plans to get five more FATF-related bills passed from the lower house of parliament with the Opposition vowing to resist the move, terming bills ‘draconian’, beyond FATF requirements. The bills on the agenda are the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Limited Liability Partner­ship (Amendment) Bill 2020, the Com­panies (Amendment) Bill 2020 and the Control of Narcotic Substances (Amend­ment) Bill 2020. This comes after the government successfully managed to get two FATF-related bills last month. (Amir Wasim, “Fireworks in NA likely over more FATF-related bills,” Dawn, 10 August 2020)

JI rejects FATF-related legislations
On 9 August, the provincial head of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan rejected the recent FATF-related legislations and said the Center passed the UNSC Amended Bill 2020, Mutual Legal Assistance Criminal Matter Bill 2020 and Anti-Terrorism Amendment Bill 2020 under pressure from FATF. He said the legislation would provide legal cover from handing over Kulbhushan Jadhav to India, Shakeel Afridi to the US and blasphemy accused to foreign countries. Adding that PPP and PML-N agreed with PTI regarding the legislation, he said: “we reject the legislation and condemn the act of the three major political parties”. Khan said the unnecessary legislation mortgaged Pakistan’s freedom and sovereignty and handed over the economy to the IMF. (“JI leader rejects legislation under FATF pressure, announces protest campaign,” The News International, 10 August 2020)

INTERNAL
Pandemic lockdown ends
On 10 August (today), Pakistan’s Covid-19 lockdown was lifted. As the federal government announced the end of the pandemic emergency, the tourism industry is slowly reviving. After the hiatus of over five months, tourist destinations are reopening and preparing to cater to visitors while ensuring safety measures. Government has adopted measures to revive the economy. Meanwhile, health experts warned that reopening may cause another spike in the pandemic. (“Corona lockdown ends today,” The News International, 10 August 2020)

PROVINCES
Sindh govt states that 70 per cent of land in Karachi is not in its control
On 9 August the Sindh Minister for Information and Local Government along with the Minister for Education and Labour made an unexpected disclosure by stating that the Sindh government had no authority to control up to 70 per cent of Karachi’s area that was controlled by different federal land-owning agencies. According to the minister, federal land-owning agencies that control up to 70 per cent areas of Karachi include cantonment boards, the Civil Aviation Authority, the Karachi Port Trust and the Pakistan Railways. Further, the minister stated that certain illegal encroachments in the city had been regularised as adding that “now a transparent probe will be conducted into this issue and no concession will be given to the officials who abetted this unlawful practice.” (“Sindh concedes it doesn’t control up to 70% land in Karachi,” The News International, 10 August 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Claims over Gilgit-Baltistan
An opinion in the Nation critical of India’s claim over Gilgit-Baltistan and its many attempts to sabotage the projects in the region states that India is doing so only to divert the attention of the international community from its atrocities in Kashmir and the recent humiliation in Ladakh at the hands of the Chinese army. The author notes that Gilgit-Baltistan has become the centre of a new great game played by foreign powers, especially India, because of the CPEC projects that have increased its importance, further adding that these projects would not only benefit the people of Gilgit-Baltistan but the rest of the country as well. The opinion stated that Pakistan will not let the people of Gilgit-Baltistan fall prey to Indian conspiracies. Further noting that friendship between China and Pakistan is very strong and this close relationship is of key importance for peace, development and stability within the region. (Masud Ahmad Khan, “Gilgit-Baltistan, China and Indian propaganda,” The Nation, 10 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
FO hails Afghan decision to release Taliban prisoners
The Foreign Office welcomed the council to release the remaining 400 Tali¬ban prisoners by the Afghan Loya Jirga on 9 August. Both sides hope that the decision would commence the Afghan peace talks that would end the 19-year-long war. FO said, “We hope that with implementation of this step relating to the prisoners’ release, as envisaged in the US-Taliban peace agreement, the intra-Afghan negotiations will commence at the earliest”. The meeting was convened by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and over 3,200 Afghan politicians and community leaders gathered for the decision making. “Pakistan has consistently supported an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process. Pakistan’s positive contribution to the process is internationally recognized,” the FO added. Previously, on Feb 29, the US and Taliban signed a peace agreement in Doha. However, the deal had collapsed when Afghanistan refused to release the Taliban prisoners. (“Afghan jirga decision on Taliban’s release hailed,” Dawn, 10 August 2020)

Only $1.8 billion under KLB law received, $2.3 billion has gone back
Former US diplomat Robin Raphel stated that only $1.8 billion has been disbursed in Pakistan under Kerry Lugar Berman (KLB) law and remaining over $3.2 billion went back to Washington DC at source through contractors, foreign consultants and other means. She stated that disbursement data was released in a complex manner on a different website which became impossible to bring together disbursement amounts from the USA. Further, she predicted that the aid money would most likely be decreased in the future but fewer amounts with effective implementation could deliver goods at the grassroots level. (Mehtab Haider, “Pakistan got $1.8 bn under KLB law, $2.3 bn went back,” The News International, 10 August 2020)

UNGA President-elect arrives in Pakistan 
United Nations General Assembly’s President-elect Volkan Bozkir arrived in Pakistan on 9 August on a two-day visit to conduct talks with Pakistani leaders. According to Foreign Office, FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi will hold wide-ranging talks with Mr Bozkir (the first Turkish national to hold the post) on issues relating to three main pillars of UN – peace and security, human rights and development; will brief the head on the Kashmir issue. The FM had reminded the head of “historic brotherhood that is without any parallel in inter-state relations” shared by Pakistan and Turkey. (“UNGA President in Pakistan for two-day visit,” The Nation, 10 August 2020)

ON INDIA
Amb Maleeha Lodhi on Pakistan's strategy in the UN, after 5 August 2019
Following are the excerpts from her writing in Dawn today.

"Hours after India’s Aug 5 action, I approached his office to stress the need for a public statement to underline the criticality of addressing the situation. Guterres was away, but I met his chief of staff on Aug 7 to convey the urgency for a swift public position and linked this to his ‘Conflict Prevention’ agenda. The secretary general’s statement came on Aug 9. He said the UN position on the decades-old dispute was governed by the UN Charter and “applicable Security Council resolutions”.

This timely reiteration helped to frame the issue for UNSC members and persuade some of them of the need for a meeting. As Islamabad launched vigorous efforts in their capitals, I met repeatedly with representatives of all 15 Council members. Meetings followed with the UN’s department of political affairs. We agreed with China that the proposed meeting start with briefings from DPA and Department for Peace Operations on the political and human rights situation and the volatile conditions along the Line of Control.

US consent was crucial. Its position would also swing its friends on the Council. This was secured after much diplomatic effort in Islamabad and New York. Russian support was equally critical and, fortunately, they responded positively. The UK wasn’t hard to convince and conveyed its support on the eve of the meeting. The only opposition to the meeting, which China persuaded us would be a closed one to garner maximum support, came from France. Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Paris and a defence deal likely lay behind this. Among non-permanent members the most helpful was Kuwait. Indonesia came around once it saw consensus emerge for the meeting." (Maleeha Lodhi, “When Kashmir held centre stage,” Dawn, 10 August 2020)

Pakistan's Kashmir Frenzy

Some of the actions inside Pakistan were rhetoric, addressed at the domestic audience to prove a point that the PTI did better than the other political parties. However, Some are part of Pakistan's long terms plans to fix India.

The week started with Pakistan getting ready for "Youm-e-Istehsal" (Day of Exploitation). On 4 August, Pakistan released a new map approved by the federal cabinet, which included the whole of J&K. Imran Khan stated, "We are bringing a political map of Pakistan before the world which reflects the aspirations of the people of Pakistan… From now on, this map of Pakistan will be used in schools, colleges and globally." According to Qureshi, the new map is also Pakistan's "destiny".

If the map reflects "aspirations of the people of Pakistan", and their "destiny", it also presents Pakistan's position with "such clarity" according to Qureshi. However, the explanation of one of the SAPM's is anything but clarity. According to SAPM Moeed Yusuf, the map asserts Pakistan's claim on the territory, but in no way suggests that the region was part of Pakistan. (Dawn, 5 August 2020). "We have just said that the dispute has to be resolved in accordance with UN resolutions."

So what does the new map claim? And how is it different from the earlier ones? First- is the nomenclature for J&K. Earlier, Pakistan used to refer to it as ' Indian occupied J&K' but now it is being referred to as - 'Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK)'. The international border that starts from the Arabian sea runs between India and Pakistan, and then claims the entire J&K. However, the eastern side, where Ladakh is, there is no closing of the border. On the north, it claims the entire Siachen, Gilgit and Baltistan, but draws the border up to the Karakoram pass from the northern point from the GB along the Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan. Though the map has the LoC in dotted line, it calls the region as "Disputed Territory – Final Status to be decided in line with relevant UNSC Resolutions."

What else is new or different in the new map? The map also includes Sir Creek and Junagadh. According to Foreign Minister Shah Qureshi, "We have refuted India's claim in Sir Creek in this map, and we have said that this is Pakistan's position. Our border is to the east while India's position is that it goes to the west. It was seemingly trivial, but if you look at the effects, India has cleverly tried to devour Pakistan's hundreds of kilometres."

The map is undoubtedly a 'Political rhetoric'. Pakistan's own newspapers have questioned the rationale behind the new map, and the future course of action. Dawn, in its editorial, asked: "Firstly, why was the map issued at this juncture? Secondly, how far will this move go in forwarding the Kashmir cause? Rhetoric apart, it needs to be examined what moves are being made on the ground to end India's brutal siege of IHK, and resolve the Kashmir question as per the aspirations of the region's people. Pakistan has always argued that only Kashmiris can decide their destiny, and no changes can be imposed on them. Therefore, while the new map may be designed to express solidarity with Kashmiris, it needs to be reiterated that a final solution to the dispute can only be achieved after Kashmiris express their will in a democratic manner." ("New Map," Dawn, 6 August 2020)

Besides the map, there were two more "concrete" measures adopted by Pakistan to show their solidarity with the Kashmiris and to attain Pakistan's "destiny." One- Pakistan issues a new stamp, and two it has also renamed a highway as "Srinagar Highway" with signs showing the distance to Srinagar and Leh. 

Foreign Minister Qureshi's controversial statement on the OIC and Saudi Arabia: Signs of confidence or desperation?

On 6 August 2020, Dawn in a news report titled, ''Qureshi asks OIC to stop dragging feet on Kashmir meeting," mentioned Pakistan's foreign minister making the following statement: "I am once again respectfully telling OIC that a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers is our expectation. If you cannot convene it, then I'll be compelled to ask Prime Minister Imran Khan to call a meeting of the Islamic countries that are ready to stand with us on the issue of Kashmir and support the oppressed Kashmiris."

The above statement was made by him while he was on a talk show on ARY News. Either, it was a statement out of desperation, without any prior planning, or a carefully drafted message. If it is desperation, one can understand. Pakistan has been trying to get the OIC to intervene on J&K and make a case against India at the bilateral level. Islamabad has also been wanting that the OIC takes up the case of Kashmir as its own and argues for Pakistan in the international forums, including at United Nations. Unfortunately for Pakistan, neither of these have happened so far. Neither has the OIC come down heavily on India with a statement or has it threatened to take actions against Delhi Nor has it taken up the case of Kashmir in international forums. 

Pakistan is not only frustrated but also desperate to get some international support for its position. Except for a few statements from Beijing, there has been no concrete support for Pakistan on Kashmir. So one could understand if the foreign minister has made that statement out of desperation or frustration.

If it is a message, who is it targeted at? Is it rhetoric targeting the domestic audience that Pakistan is willing to stand up and give an ultimatum to the OIC? Or, is it actually targeting the OIC, and Saudi Arabia?

If it is, can Pakistan afford to? There is no support for Qureshi's bravado against the OIC event within Pakistan. Shahbaz Sharif, leader of the PML-N and the leader of the opposition, called Qureshi's statement as "highly unfortunate and irresponsible." 

The Express Tribune, in its editorial, was even more specific and categorical. It said: "While we have all the right to give precedence to our own national and diplomatic interests, nothing should annoy a friend like Saudi Arabia with which our bilateral ties spans our entire existence as a nation. We are sure the incumbent government realises the importance of Pakistan's strategic relations with Saudi Arabia and knows how to proceed ahead."

Also during the week...

Pakistan's new "Srinagar Highway" with the signboard showing distance to Leh and Srinagar (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief
prepared by
Lakshmi V Menon, Abigail Miriam Fernandez and Sukanya Bali

Govt appoints retired Brig Shujah Hassan as new PSM chief
On 7 August, the government-appointed retired Brig Shujah Hassan as the new chief executive officer of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). As per the notification issued by the Establishment Division the appointment of the new chief will be for one year with immediate effect until further orders, however, the appointment is subject to termination on one month's notice by either side. Brig Hassan was shortlisted by the PSM board of directors on account of his strong commitment to supporting the government and its vision to review the largest industrial unit in the country. This appointment is the first since 2016 that a full-time PSM chief executive officer has been appointed by the federal government. ("Ex-serviceman appointed PSM chief," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

International flights operations to resume from all airports 
Aviation Division spokesman announced that the government has authorized all types of international and domestic flight operations to and from all airports across Pakistan to resume as per authorization granted to all foreign and domestic operators pre-COVID-I9 summer schedule 2020, including cargo and special flight operations, with effect from 9 August. Further, the spokesman stated that these operations will be conducted as per the established guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs). This decision comes after all international and domestic flight operations were suspended in March amid the outbreak of the pandemic. (Mohammad Asghar, "Govt to resume international flights from all airports on 9th," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

WB says that it cannot mediate the water dispute between Pakistan-India 
The World Bank WB has stated its inability to take an independent decision on the appointment of a neutral expert or court of arbitration for settlement of a long outstanding water dispute between Pakistan and India, stating that the two countries would have to bilaterally choose one option. Pakistan requested for the appointment of a Court of Arbitration (COA) while India sought a neutral expert to resolve their dispute on two hydroelectric projects, due to these conflicting positions under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, the World Bank was facilitating the two governments to find ways in resolving differences. Former WB Country Director of Pakistan stated, "Both India and Pakistan should come together as to which option to take forward" adding "There is no provision in the treaty for the World Bank to take an independent decision." (Khaleeq Kiani, "WB says cannot mediate in Pakistan-India water dispute," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

Govt decides to lift restrictions as COVID cases decline
On 6 August, the National Coordination Committee (NCC) on COVID-19 decided to lift restrictions on the tourism sector from 8 August and on restaurants and transport sector from 10 August. However, restrictions on the number of people allowed to travel by trains, planes and buses and the mandatory gap between the passengers will remain in place till September. These are to be lifted by October if the situation permits. Further, the committee laid out a timetable for opening up of other sectors, including educational institutions and marriage halls. The NCC meeting was presided over by PM Imran Khan and was attended by representatives from all the provinces. Further, Minister for Planning and Development reiterated, “people should not take it as complete victory as the situation can reverse in case of a change in the attitude of people. I appeal to the people to take more precautionary measures than before.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Amid decline in virus cases, govt opens up country,” Dawn, 7 August 2020)

Parliament to sit for a joint session to discuss FATF bills
The parliament will be sitting for a joint session today intending to pass other crucial bills. This joint session comes a week after two FATF-related bills passed separately from the two houses of parliament successfully. On 5 August, the National Assembly Secretariat issued a one-point agenda for the joint sitting which contains only the Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal Matter) Bill 2020. The government had managed to get the Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal Matter) Bill passed from the National Assembly on 6 January after overcoming resistance by the opposition parties. However, the bill could not sail through the Senate, within the 90-day constitutional time frame, forcing the government to get it passed through the joint sitting. (Amir Wasim, “Parliament’s joint sitting today” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

PPP urges government to start the Islamabad temple construction
On 4 August, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in a statement urged the federal government to take steps to remove all hurdles in the way of the construction of the temple in Islamabad and inaugurate its work “to give a befitting reply” to PM Narendra Modi, who is scheduled to lay the foundation for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The demand was made by PPP Senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar as official spokesman for party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in a statement issued by the party’s Media Office. The senator added that this move by Modi would “blacken the face of secular India”. Further, he stated that Pakistan should send a message to the world community that the people who belong to all religions enjoyed equal rights in the country as well. (“PPP asks govt to start Islamabad temple construction,” Dawn, 5 August 2020)

PkMAP leader on the role of undemocratic forces in the affairs and politics of the country
On 3 August, Mehmood Khan Achakzai chairman of Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) said, “The real issue of the country is not Imran Khan, but the unconstitutional role and interference of undemocratic forces in the affairs and politics of the country.” He also said, that “the existing system could not run anymore, and it was about to collapse, as the basic concept of justice was being ignored and civil authority did not exist in the country.” The leader also demanded resolution on the Baloch-Pashtoon issue, saying “We need a separate Pashtoon unit. As long as the Pashtoon-Baloch issue is not resolved, the country will not progress. The Baloch are sitting in the assembly by force. We demand a united Pashtoon assembly”. (“No progress achievable without supremacy of Constitution: Achakzai,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)  
 

In Focus
National Assembly clears two FATF bills, but blocks one.

What happened?
PM's Finance Adviser Hafeez Shaikh made his parliamentary panel meeting debut on 7 August during which the panel cleared two Financial Action Task Force (FATF) related government bills. However, a crucial anti-money laundering bill was blocked by the opposition, with the latter calling out a "suspicious" National Accountability Bureau (NAB) role. Previously, the National Assembly's finance committee refused to take up the government's legislative business over the absence of Mr Hafeez; and panel's chairman Faizullah, a PTI member, had threatened to resign unless Hafeez showed up. Dr Shaikh stated his respect to the parliamentary committee; said he would like to brief the committee on the state of the economy in an upcoming session; and pointed out that exiting the FATF grey list was Pakistan's priority. Also, the Financial Management Unit's director-general mentioned the AML (Second Amendment) Bill, 2020's salient features. ("NA body clears two FATF-related bills as Hafeez shows up," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

Bills cleared so far
While the Limited Liability Partnership (Amendment) Bill 2020 was cleared without any issues, amendments put forward by opposition MNAs were allowed for the Companies (Amendment) Bill 2020. Finance ministry officials explained that similar amendments would enhance the authorities' ability to trace actual owners of businesses and companies. Previously, on 29 July, the National Assembly passed two more FATF-related bills, both moved by the Prime Minister's Adviser on Parliamentary Affairs Babar Awan. They were the Anti-terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2020 and the United Nations (Security Council) (Amendment) Bill, 2020. ("Govt gets two FATF-related bills passed through NA amid opposition protest," Dawn, 30 July 2020) FM Qureshi had claimed on 24 July that the federal government had prepared eight such bills to ensure Pakistan's exit from FATF's "Grey-list".

The controversial ones
The blocked bill lured serious apprehensions and reservations from Opposition members (from PPP and PML-N). They said the haste the government showed to pass the bill was highly suspicious. PPP's Naveed Qamar and Nafeesa Shah, and PML-N's Ali Pervez Malik and Dr Aisha Ghaus Pasha expressed concern over the proposed customer due diligence (CDD); opined that the blocked bill in its current form would be economically catastrophic; and sought NAB's exclusion saying that other specialized agencies were sufficient. Dr Aisha Pasha said the federal government was "crushing economic activity through such laws".

An analysis by Tariq Butt says that previously included "offences of political nature and corruption were taken out of the purview of the new law". It has been limited to FATF obligations. The article speaks in length regarding the sweeping amendments made to the bills – such as decentralization of power from Interior Secretary, changing of "definition of the assets confiscation order", and so on. Butt explains that with the removal of the offence of corruption from the act, "NAB has nothing to do with the present legislation". ("No law ever experienced such sweeping amendments: MLA Act restricted to FATF requirements," The News International, 8 August 2020)

CPEC Authority Chairman Lt Gen (retd) Asim Saleem Bajwa is confident that the Rashakai Special Economic Zone would be finalised in August

(Image Source: Dawn)

On CPEC and Gwadar port development:
Gen Aseem Bajwa says CPEC has not slowed down

No slow down
Dismissing the impression that the CPEC has slowed down, Gen Bajwa while chairing a special dialogue 'Gwadar Port, free economic zone's role in the prosperity of Balochistan and AMP; regional connectivity' organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) stated that the second phase of CPEC would pick up and divides of the project would go to the people of Pakistan through the creation of more job opportunities. Further, he noted the progress made by through the Gwadar Port, where investors are now showing their interest for investing into Gwadar Free Economic Zone. (Mehtab Haider, "No or least displacement for Gwadar Port City development," The News International, 8 August 2020)

Quotable: 
"We are working for development of Southern Balochistan as Gwadar Port will be connected to bring prosperity for Balochistan. The development agreement for Rashakai's Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be signed in third week of ongoing month" says chairman CPEC Authority Lt Gen (R) Asim Saleem Bajwa.

What next on CPEC?
Gen Bajwa also stated that the government has been planning to convert it into Gwadar Economic District of Balochistan. Adding that the government aims at ensuring more development for southern Balochistan where Gwadar and Khuzdar region could get the dividends of connectivity. Further, PM Imran Khan constituted a special committee for bringing development for Southern Balochistan to make it possible for people to be a part of the development, in this light one such initiative is that the government would incentivize fisheries sector in Balochistan, further adding that security would not be an issue.

China on the project: Chinese ambassador says Iran-Pakistan-China gas pipeline is possible
Chinese Ambassador in Pakistan Yao Jing stated that the CPEC would not only provide bilateral connectivity, but it would also allow for regional connectivity, noting that the transit trade which has just started from Gwadar is a huge milestone for the future economic activities and connectivity in the region. Further, he highlighted that it would also help connect western Asia, Central Asia and the western part of China, thus the benefitting the whole region. He also stated that Qatar and Afghanistan wish to be a part of the CPEC projects, further adding that the upcoming SEZs, would be opened for all countries and joint ventures would be offered to all companies across the globe.

The ambassador also spoke of the possibility of converting Iran-Pakistan and India (IPI) gas pipeline into Iran-Pakistan and China gas pipeline if regional connectivity is developed and strengthened. ("Chairman CPEC Authority, Chinese Ambassador stress importance of Gawadar Port in the region," The Nation, 8 August 2020)

Foreign minister Qureshi was harsh on the OIC during an interview recently. He was quoted to have stated: "I am once again respectfully telling OIC that a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers is our expectation. If you cannot convene it, then I’ll be compelled to ask Prime Minister Imran Khan to call a meeting of the Islamic countries that are ready to stand with us on the issue of Kashmir"

(Image Source: Dawn)

On FM's remarks regarding the Saudi-led OIC
PML-N criticizes it as "highly unfortunate and irresponsible"
National Assembly Opposition leader and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shahbaz Sharif severely criticized FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi's remarks regarding the Saudi-led Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Sharif called the remarks "highly unfortunate and irresponsible", the height of irresponsibility and a diplomatic folly; said PTI's "cavalier" attitude would undermine Pakistan's core relations with friendly nations; and tweeted "It flies in the face of history and Pakistan's trusted relationship with the Kingdom." During his speech at the "AJK" legislative assembly, he said that PML-N would keep aside political issues with PTI and render complete support to the issue of Kashmir. However, in a separate statement, Sharif questioned PTI's Kashmir policy. Sharif was referring to FM Qureshi's unusually sharp warning to OIC asking the latter to stop procrastinating a meeting on the Kashmir issue. ("Shahbaz assails Qureshi's remarks about Saudi Arabia," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

An editorial reflects on foreign minister's criticism of the OIC
An editorial in the Dawn critical of Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's recent blunt criticism of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and then the Foreign Office's reiteration of the same states that foreign policy goals must be clear and should ensure that Pakistan takes a moral stand without annoying their friends and benefactors. The editorial notes that although no former government has criticized Saudi Arabia in this manner, Saudis' lack of interest in taking up the Kashmir dispute has caused the frustration among the ruling elite in Pakistan. Further, the editorial states that maybe the PM should explain in detail the road map that Pakistan now intends to follow, given the many geostrategic blocs in the Muslim world, questioning, does Pakistan intend to ally with any of these formations, or does it aim to create a new bloc with like-minded states? However, this decision must be made with caution. ("OIC criticism," Dawn, 8 August 2020)
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Ahead of Muharram, government issues fresh SOPs
A National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) meeting, presided over by Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and held on 7 August, discussed the roadmap to tackle the pandemic and measures adopted to open different sectors and the enhance preparedness before Muharram and the Independence Day celebrations. This is in light of the peaking COVID-19 cases in Punjab post-Eidul Azha. Punjab's provincial government also brought about fresh standard operating procedures (SOPs). Additionally, a complete code of conduct was devised to ensure compliance with SOPs and social distancing. He credited the citizens for the reduction in the pandemic cases. Federal Minister for Interior retired Brig Ejaz Ahmed Shah and SAP on Health Dr Faisal Sultan were also in attendance. ("Fresh SOPs issued for 14 August, Muharram," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

Govt appoints retired Brig Shujah Hassan as new PSM chief
On 7 August, the government-appointed retired Brig Shujah Hassan as the new chief executive officer of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). As per the notification issued by the Establishment Division the appointment of the new chief will be for one year with immediate effect until further orders, however, the appointment is subject to termination on one month's notice by either side. Brig Hassan was shortlisted by the PSM board of directors on account of his strong commitment to supporting the government and its vision to review the largest industrial unit in the country. This appointment is the first since 2016 that a full-time PSM chief executive officer has been appointed by the federal government. ("Ex-serviceman appointed PSM chief," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

International flights operations to resume from all airports 
Aviation Division spokesman announced that the government has authorized all types of international and domestic flight operations to and from all airports across Pakistan to resume as per authorization granted to all foreign and domestic operators pre-COVID-I9 summer schedule 2020, including cargo and special flight operations, with effect from 9 August. Further, the spokesman stated that these operations will be conducted as per the established guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs). This decision comes after all international and domestic flight operations were suspended in March amid the outbreak of the pandemic. (Mohammad Asghar, "Govt to resume international flights from all airports on 9th," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

PROVINCES 
Chaman clashes to be discussed in Balochistan Provincial Assembly
Amid furious verbal exchanges and uproar, Balochistan Assembly's deputy speaker admitted the adjournment motion of the PkMAP's Nasrullah Zerey for a debate on violence in Chaman (Af-Pak border) that claimed six lives. Mr Zerey informed the assembly that the people of Chaman had been conducting protests against the trade corridor's closure over the two previous months. ("Balochistan PA to debate Chaman clashes," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

WATER DISPUTE
WB says that it cannot mediate the water dispute between Pakistan-India 
The World Bank WB has stated its inability to take an independent decision on the appointment of a neutral expert or court of arbitration for settlement of a long outstanding water dispute between Pakistan and India, stating that the two countries would have to bilaterally choose one option. Pakistan requested for the appointment of a Court of Arbitration (COA) while India sought a neutral expert to resolve their dispute on two hydroelectric projects, due to these conflicting positions under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, the World Bank was facilitating the two governments to find ways in resolving differences. Former WB Country Director of Pakistan stated, "Both India and Pakistan should come together as to which option to take forward" adding "There is no provision in the treaty for the World Bank to take an independent decision." (Khaleeq Kiani, "WB says cannot mediate in Pakistan-India water dispute," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
Mike Pompeo and FM Qureshi discuss the Afghan peace process, US-Pak cooperation and Kashmir
On 7 August, a Loya Jirga met in Kabul to further the Afghan peace process. On the same day, US Sec­re­tary of State Mike Pom­peo and Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi discussed Pakistan's role as a peace promoter/enabler in Afghanistan. Pompeo tweeted that he had a "productive call" with FM Qureshi and said he looked forward increasing US-Pak partnership and furthering shared bilateral goals. According to the statement issued by Pompeo's office in Washington, the two discussed "the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation on the Afghan peace process and the importance of efforts to support regional stability". Additionally, Pompeo urged the Loya Jirga attendees to utilize the "historic opportunity for peace"; welcomed developments to expedite the release of Taliban prisoners; and reiterated Trump administration's commitment to the Afghan peace process, reduction of US' tax payer's burden and risk to US troops. As per Pakistan's FO, the two bureaucrats discussed Pak-US partnership and FM Qureshi apprised Pompeo of India's regressive policies in Kashmir. ("FM, Pompeo discuss peace process as jirga meets in Kabul," Dawn, 8 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
Govt decides to lift restrictions as COVID cases decline
On 6 August, the National Coordination Committee (NCC) on COVID-19 decided to lift restrictions on the tourism sector from 8 August and on restaurants and transport sector from 10 August. However, restrictions on the number of people allowed to travel by trains, planes and buses and the mandatory gap between the passengers will remain in place till September. These are to be lifted by October if the situation permits. Further, the committee laid out a timetable for opening up of other sectors, including educational institutions and marriage halls. The NCC meeting was presided over by PM Imran Khan and was attended by representatives from all the provinces. Further, Minister for Planning and Development reiterated, “people should not take it as complete victory as the situation can reverse in case of a change in the attitude of people. I appeal to the people to take more precautionary measures than before.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Amid decline in virus cases, govt opens up country,” Dawn, 7 August 2020)

PM to inaugurate Ravi Development Authority project in Lahore
As per Radio Pakistan, PM Imran Khan will inaugurate the Ravi Development Authority project during his day-long official visit to Lahore today (7 August). During the visit, the PM will address provincial civil servants via a video link and chair National Coordination Committee meetings on Construction, Housing and Development; and education reforms in Punjab. PTI MPA Musarrat Cheema tweeted that the Ravi Development Authority project will be a "game-changer" for Lahore. Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar authorized the establishment of “River Ravi Front Authority” to develop the “most modern city” in Lahore. (“PM Imran to inaugurate Ravi Development Authority in Lahore today,” The News International, 7 August 2020)

Airports allowed to handle domestic flight operations 
The Aviation Division announced that all airports would be allowed to handle domestic flight operation in the country from 6 August midnight. A spokesman for the Aviation Division stated that the government had earlier allowed all airports, except Turbat, Pangjur, Dalbandin, Zhob, Pasni, Moenjo Daro, Nawabshah and Bahawalpur airports, to resume domestic flight operations. Further, the spokesman added that all operators would be required to implement the established guidelines, SOPs and that prior schedule approval from the competent authority would be taken. Further, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) issued a formal notice cancelling its previous notice which banned domestic flights. This decision comes after the domestic flight operation was suspended more than four months amid the pandemic. (Mohammad Asghar, “All airports allowed to handle domestic flight operations,” Dawn, 7 August 2020)

CPEC
The arrival of 500 Chinese Personnel will boost the Thar Block-1 project, says analysis
After the delay due to the pandemic, on 4 August, Chinese personnel (a batch of 500 engineers and managers) arrived in Karachi’s Jinnah Terminal on a chartered flight, where they were welcomed by company officials. The work on a CPEC priority project - Shanghai Electric’s Thar Coal Block-1 Project – is expected to accelerate. Mr Li Jigen, CEO, Sino Sindh Resources (Private)Limited, an overseas extension of Shanghai Electric, thanked China and Pakistan for facilitating the travel and said it was a major development for the company. He added that following the arrival of the Chinese personnel job opportunities for local professionals will be awarded in the near future. (“CPEC’s Power Project in Thar Block-1 to get boost with return of 500 Chinese workers,” The News International, 7 August 2020)

PROVINCES 
Surge in COVID-19 cases in Punjab after Eid 
The Punjab province has reported a sudden surge in the number of COVID-19 new cases after Eidul Azha. The cases which had dropped to below 100 has increased to around 300. Although some health experts are not worried about this increase declaring it as a routine surge, others believed that it might be a signal for the beginning of the second wave of the virus. Punjab reported 277 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 besides five deaths during the last 24 hours against 235 a day earlier. Of the new cases, 100 were reported from Lahore, 58 from Rawalpindi, 25 from Gujranwala, 13 from Multan, 11 from Sialkot, eight from Gujrat. Further, the Punjab government has conducted 5424 COVID-19 tests during the last 24 hours across the province. (“Sudden surge in Punjab coronavirus cases after Eid,” Dawn, 7 August 2020)

Dawn report says Monsoon misery paralyzing Karachi
In the light of the heavy downpour, inundations of the roads and flooding of the city, power cuts and traffic jams were rampant. The CM tasked Cabinet members with overseeing relief work across the Sindh province. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) urged authorities to “remain vigilant” and citizens to stay home during rainfall. (“Flooded roads, crumbling infrastructure paralyse city, pile on monsoon misery,” Dawn, 7 August 2020)

ON INDIA
Parliament discusses Kashmir
On 6 August, a joint sitting of parliament reiterated its complete rejection of the revocation of Article 370 by the Indian government. PM, lauding the recent UNSC meeting on the Kashmir dispute, tweeted “The UNSC, under the UN Charter, not only has the responsibility for maintaining international peace & security but also of ensuring implementation of its resolutions.” In the series of tweets, the PM thanked the Council members for expressing concern over the situation in Kashmir; said “Pakistan’s position remains clear & unambiguous”; and expressed support to the right of self-determination of the Kashmiris by means of “a free & fair plebiscite”.

The Parliament condemned “human rights violations by India”; emphasized the illegality of the Indian move with regards to UNSC resolutions, bilateral agreements and international law; denounced BJP for exploiting the global preoccupation with the pandemic to further its Hindutva agenda; declared “illegal steps” to make Muslims a minority in India’s only Muslim-majority region were violations of the UN resolutions, international law and 4th Geneva Convention; condemned arbitrary arrests and detentions of Kashmiri leaders and “fake encounters” that caused extra-judicial killings of the Kashmiri youths; accused India of opening fire across the LoC to divert attention from human rights violations in Kashmir; and claimed that Indian use of pellet guns had partially or completely blinded over 11,000 Kashmiris, including children and women. The parliament also commended the three recent discussions on the dispute in the UNSC – two reports issued by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the support of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Note, the latter comes a day after PM Qureshi’s rare stern warning to Saudi Arabia. (“Parliament rejects changing of Kashmir’s special status,” Dawn, 7 August 2020)

In Focus
Pakistan's continuing Kashmir frenzy
Kashmiris will "end up in their freedom" says Imran Khan

PM Khan says Kashmir’s freedom is not far off
During Prime Minister Imran Khan’s special session at the “Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK)” (part of PoK) Legislative assembly on 5 August 2020, to mark Yaum-i-Istehsal and commemorate one year of the abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian government, he said Indian PM Narendra Modi’s decision to revoke J&K special status was a “strategic blunder” which would soon lead to the liberation of Kashmir. He said, “the Almighty is passing the Kashmiris through a phase that will end up in their freedom”.

Speaking at length regarding the importance and role of principles and law in the rise and fall of nations, Imran Khan presented four assumptions based on which the Modi government would have resorted to the move: first, mustering strength for the Kashmir move after winning the second term with a landslide victory based on “his Hindutva base”; second, the expectation of Pakistan’s PTI government to remain mum like the former PML-N government; third, the idea that global community would not want to sever ties with the second largest world market of 1.35 billion for the sake of Kashmir; and fourth, Mr Modi’s belief that the “world would also remain silent because it wanted to use India against China”. On the occasion, Imran Khan also announced Pakistan’s decision to honour Syed Ali Shah Geelani with the country’s highest civil award, Nishan-i-Pakistan, on 14 August. (“Kashmir’s freedom is not far off: PM,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

FM asks OIC to stop procrastinating the meeting on Kashmir
On 5 August, an unusually charged caution was made by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi to the Saudi Arabia-led Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) asking the latter to stop dragging its feet on the convening of a Council of Foreign Ministers meeting on the Kashmir issue. Mr Qureshi said: “I am once again respectfully telling OIC that a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) is our expectation. If you cannot convene it, then I’ll be compelled to ask Prime Minister Imran Khan to call a meeting of the Islamic countries that are ready to stand with us on the issue of Kashmir and support the oppressed Kashmiris.”

The FM said that Pakistan had omitted the Kuala Lumpur summit (headed by Turkey and Malaysia and considered by Saudi Arabia as an alternative to the OIC) on KSA’s request and was now seeking in return that Riyadh “show leadership on the (Kashmir) issue”. Pakistan has been calling for a CFM meeting of the OIC ever since the revocation of Article 370 by India on 5 August 2019. (“Qureshi asks OIC to stop dragging feet on Kashmir meeting,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

Dawn analysis asks where Pakistan’s Kashmir policy stands today, points out fissures in the foreign policy establishment
In an analysis, Fahd Husain argues that Pakistan’s Kashmir policy has had a monolithic policy with little or no evolution over the decades. According to the author, the only time a significant change occurred was during General Pervez Musharraf period when he presented the four-point formula in the UNGA. But the policy disappeared as soon as Musharraf was out. Pakistan’s traditional policy on Kashmir – “revolving around the utility (or lack thereof) of proxies” – had mostly nothing on the ground post “Jaishes and Lashkars were put to pasture in the last few years”. But with Modi’s 5 August 2019 move, Pakistan was forced to revamp its approach. 

Husain identifies “three different strands of ambiguity” within the foreign policy establishment that is incongruent on this matter. First, the debate as to whether Pakistan must adjust to the new normal post 5 August 2019 or stay put on the traditional position; the new reflects the former. Second, “Kashmir banay ga Pakistan” vs right to self-determination of Kashmiris. Last, should Islamabad adopt symbolic gestures or concrete steps? Husain says that these debates have created fissures regarding Kashmir policy where none previously existed and says that within the Red Zone influential voices prefer a proactive approach that causes a greater non-military pushback from the Kashmiris. He says ground realities of “repression, custodial killings, brutalisation of women and children, financial crisis, rising unemployment and internet blackout” helps further this approach. (“RED ZONE FILES: Mapping options,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

Editorial calls the cartographic changes a psychological move
The Dawn editorial says the inclusion of the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir as Pakistani territory is the greatest development or change in foreign policy with respect to the new political map (“the first step” to the resolution of the Kashmir dispute) released a day before the observance of Yaum-i-Istehsal. The article says the “cartographic changes are a psychological move designed to pay India back in the same coin”; a response to the new map released by New Delhi in 2019 that showed PoK as part of Indian territory which was rejected by China, Pakistan and Nepal. The article urges the government to consider certain pertaining questions: first, the timing of the release of the map; and second, the capability of the move to further the Kashmir cause. The author says that the Pakistan government must reiterate “a final solution to the dispute can only be achieved after Kashmiris express their will in a democratic manner”. (“New map,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

An opinion warns India on an inevitable international intervention
Ahmed Quraishi calls US President Donald Trump’s mediation offer in the India-Pak Kashmir issue “a turning point”. He says due to the lack of de-escalation and conflict resolution, “international intervention is inevitable”. The president for American Jewish Congress, Jack Rosen, earlier called for American intervention in the Kashmir dispute. Ahmed says the world is running out of patience with respect to Kashmir is not willing to give India any more time to set its house in order, due to the growing environment of religious and political extremism in India. The article also appraises theories of India misusing Kashmir for larger interests, linked to Trump’s 2020 midterms and Afghanistan. The article further says that India is facing unprecedented global isolation and that Modi is being compared with Milosevic and Hitler by the global media. (“The world’s biggest land grab - Part III,” The News International, 6 August 2020)

Senator’s commentary calls for forceful UN action against India
The article by Senator Lt-Gen Abdul Qayyum talks about the failure of the United Nations like its predecessor the League of Nations; and says that “there have been bloody conflicts the world over, many in which Muslims were the main victims”. Qayyum calls India and Israel rogue countries that commit “blatant human rights violations”, “unprecedented state terrorism”, “gross violations of the UN Charter, the Geneva Conventions and other international law”. The Senator calls for the forceful implementation of UN resolutions on Kashmir as stipulated in the UN Charter’s chapter 7. He urges the global community to take steps such as “diplomatic isolation (and) slamming economic sanctions.” (“Kashmir: an open wound,” The News International, 6 August 2020)

Other related developments on Kashmir: President's address, Punjab Assembly resolution...
Meanwhile, a Punjab Assembly resolution, expressing solidarity with the Kashmiris, was moved by Law Minister Raja Basharat and passed during a session on Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir (“PA resolution shows solidarity with Kashmiris,” The News International, 6 August 2020); while addressing the 3D project show organised to mark the Youm-e-Istehsal, President Dr Arif Alvi said PM Imran Khan has proven himself to be an ambassador of Kashmiris through his actions. He said Mr Khan “talked about Kashmir issue wherever he goes around the world". (“PM proving himself as ambassador of Kashmiris: Alvi,” The News International, 6 August 2020)

Local media claims that the Chinese support Paksitan
Also, on 5 August, China supported Pakistan’s stand on Kashmir when China’s foreign ministry spokesperson said that China has been closely following the Kashmir issue. He said “our position is consistent and clear. This issue is a dispute left over from history between Pakistan and India that is an objective fact established by the UN Charter, Security Council’s resolutions and bilateral agreement between Pakistan and India.” (“China backs Pakistan’s position on IIOJK,” The Nation, 6 August 2020) 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Parliament to sit for a joint session today to discuss FATF bills
The parliament will be sitting for a joint session today intending to pass other crucial bills. This joint session comes a week after two FATF-related bills passed separately from the two houses of parliament successfully. On 5 August, the National Assembly Secretariat issued a one-point agenda for the joint sitting which contains only the Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal Matter) Bill 2020. The government had managed to get the Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal Matter) Bill passed from the National Assembly on 6 January after overcoming resistance by the opposition parties. However, the bill could not sail through the Senate, within the 90-day constitutional time frame, forcing the government to get it passed through the joint sitting. (Amir Wasim, “Parliament’s joint sitting today” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

PIA to resume flights partially to the UK   
The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced that it would partially resume its flights to the United Kingdom from 14 August with a hired plane. PIA spokesman stated, “The PIA has hired a plane and crew from a European company to operate flights using PIA call sign and slots,” further adding, “Due to public demand, the national flag carrier is resuming its flights.” This agreement was signed between Portugal’s airline and the national carrier. Further, the spokesperson stated that PIA would operate flights with an Airbus A330 which has a seating capacity of more than 300 passengers. Further, passengers will be able to travel to London, Manchester and Birmingham from Pakistan under this new arrangement. (Mohammad Asghar, “PIA to partially resume flights to UK from 14th,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists
According to the analysis, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists will be celebrating their 70 anniversary this week. The sole aim of the organization was dedicated to ideals of a media free from bondage to the government, remain simple and non-controversial. PFUJ not only survived but worked fearlessly and can look back with both satisfaction and mortification. It had also set up a body to categorize newspapers according to their financial strength and draw up pay scales for journalists in 1960. It further says, “It is time common sense prevailed and all PFUJ factions realized it is only through journalists’ unity that press freedom can be collectively defended.” (“PFUJ at 70,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

ON INDIA
Foreign Office condemns the construction in Ayodhya
On 06 August, the foreign office criticized the construction of ‘Ram Mandir’ in Ayodhya saying it as part of India's journey towards ‘Hindu Rashtra’. Also said, “The flawed judgment of the Indian Supreme Court paving the way for construction of the temple not only reflected the preponderance of faith over justice but also the growing majoritarianism in today’s India, where minorities, particularly Muslims and their places of worship, are increasingly under attack.” The FO acted worrisome over the “the rising tide of the divisive and extremist ideology” in India that would pose a threat to regional peace. (“Pakistan condemns temple’s construction at Babri mosque site,” Dawn, 6 August 2020)

Pakistan committed to following the ICJ in Khubhushan Jadav case
According to the analysis, the appointment of three legal counsel for Kulbhushan Jadav by IHC seeks to provide convict protection under international laws. It aims to ensure ‘no one in the international community can ever blame Pakistan, for the mishandling’ of the case. The next hearing is adjourned for 03 September. It also highlights, that maybe Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan, still after the ‘Indian government for a reaction to this alludes to the possibility of them completely abandoning the case’. (“A generous approach,” The Nation, 6 August 2020)
 

In Focus
Pakistan's new Map of J&K
It is now "Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK)"

Pakistan issues new map of J&K, with changes in the status of Kashmir and boundaries
After the issuing of the commemorative postal stamp, rechristening of Kashmir Highway to “Srinagar Highway” and decision to observe today (5 August 2020), the first anniversary of abrogation of the Article 370 and 35A by the Indian government, as ‘Yaum-i-Istehsal’ (Day of Exploitation), Islamabad has now unveiled a new political map of Pakistan asserting the country’s longstanding position on Sir Creek and Kashmir disputes. (“Pakistan affirms claim to IHK with new map,” Dawn, 5 August 2020)

Major statements from Pakistan leaders on Kashmir
On 4 August, the new map was launched after approval by the federal cabinet by Prime Minister Imran Khan. “It is a historic occasion. The political map reflects our national aspiration and supports our principled stance on Kashmir dispute,” PM Khan said. He hailed the map as the “first step” towards Kashmir dispute’s political resolution, saying the map rejects India’s claims to the region. The Premiere’s national security, foreign policy and information ministry aides accompanied him. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said, “it is first time that the aspirations of Pakistani nation and our stated position on the dispute are being given with such clarity”. He re-emphasizing the extension of the Line of Control to the Chinese border and said: “This makes it clear that Siachen is ours”. The FM added that the map negated the Indian position on Sir Creek and accused India of trying to “occupy hundreds of kilometers of our (Pakistan’s) Exclusive Economic Zone”. SAPM on National Security Moeed Yusuf told Dawn that the new map asserted Pakistan’s territorial claims but in no way was suggesting the region was a part of Pakistan. It only said that the dispute must be “resolved in accordance with UN resolutions,” he explained. 

What is new in Pakistan's "new" map?
FM Qureshi spelt out the new political map’s features: the map shows the disputed area, the status of which Pakistan wanted to be decided in accordance with Kashmiri aspirations and UN resolutions. The map includes J&K (“IOJ&K included into Pakistan map,” The News International, 5 August 2020); clearly states the disputed territory’s “final status is to be decided in line with relevant UNSC resolutions”; represents the position on Sir Creek; underscores claims on Junagadh and Manavadar; shows the administrative boundary separating the two portions of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) – Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan; includes “Frontier Undefined”; extends the Line of Control to connect with the Chinese border, and shows Fata as part of KP. Mr Yusuf explains the status of the region under the “Frontier Undefined” description to be defined post the settling of the Kashmir dispute. According to Mr Yusuf, the uniform green colour given to “Gilgit-Baltistan” (part of PoK) and Kashmir shows that it's one territory; and the extension of the eastern side’s international boundary up to the undefined frontier aims to demarcate India’s Himachal Pardesh from the J&K’s “disputed part”. He also pointed out the change in nomenclature from “Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir” to “Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.” 

What Pakistan intends to achieve with the new map?
The new map is considered a response to India’s political map launched on 31 October 2019 after the splitting of J&K into Union Territories. The Indian map had laid claims on PoK. Consequently, Pakistan, China and Nepal rejected the map. Nevertheless, Pakistan’s current move is again, like the stamp, renaming and observance of ‘Yaum-i-Istehsal’, more symbolic than substantive.

Also related to J&K
“Youm-e-Istehsal”
The “Azad J&K” is all set to observe Youm-e-Istehsal. (“AJK all set to observe Youm-e-Istehsal,” Dawn, 5 August 2020) The main event is PM Khan’s speech at “AJK”. A Youm-e-Istehsal poster issued by the government of Pakistan said: “Kashmir waiting for justice – 365 days of Siege”. “The dark night of oppression must end. Kashmir will witness the dawn of Freedom,” it read. Excerpts by Pakistan’s President Dr Arif Alvi, PM Khan, FM Qureshi, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Nadeem Raza featured in the poster.

Analyses on Kashmir continue to pour
A Dawn opinion article by Zahid Hussain said: “the unending inhuman blockade and repression have had a serious effect on the population (of Kashmir)”. He said that slogans like ‘Kashmir banega Pakistan’ only harms the Kashmiri cause and called for better highlighting of the Kashmir issue in global forums; not for political point-scoring but for Kashmiris right to self-determination. (“Kashmir’s cry for freedom,” Dawn, 5 August 2020) An Opinion article in The News International by Mohammad Zubair called the Kashmir dispute Pakistan’s most significant foreign policy objective. He says with Article 370 undone, Pakistan has “an additional challenge” in forcing “India to agree on a plebiscite in accordance with UN Resolutions” to resolve the Kashmir issue. (“Kashmir: one year on,” Dawn, 5 August 2020) PPP Senator Sherry Rehman’s opinion piece in The News International criticizes Modi government’s “Hindutva chauvinism” and “Sangh Parivar’s dream of wiping clean India’s multi-religious history” for the plight of the Kashmiris. She further talks about the need for internationalization of the issue. (“The forgotten people,” The News International, 5 August 2020) Another opinion article by Tariq Kamal Qazi calls India’s alteration of Kashmir status, a violation of the Indian Constitution. (“India violates own law by altering Kashmir status,” The News International, 5 August 2020)

Meanwhile, New York iconic Times Square’s billboards lit up in an expression of solidarity with Kashmiris. Signs reading “Kashmiris Lives Matter” and “Kashmir Siege Day” showed hands raised in protest symbolizing the Kashmiri struggle. Pakistan Ambassador to US Asad Khan said these signs reminded the global community about “one full year of forced disappearances, torture, and a siege that has been intensified on the pretext of Covid-19”. (“Billboards at New York square highlight Indian atrocities,” Dawn, 5 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
PPP urges government to start the Islamabad temple construction
On 4 August, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in a statement urged the federal government to take steps to remove all hurdles in the way of the construction of the temple in Islamabad and inaugurate its work “to give a befitting reply” to PM Narendra Modi, who is scheduled to lay the foundation for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The demand was made by PPP Senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar as official spokesman for party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in a statement issued by the party’s Media Office. The senator added that this move by Modi would “blacken the face of secular India”. Further, he stated that Pakistan should send a message to the world community that the people who belong to all religions enjoyed equal rights in the country as well. (“PPP asks govt to start Islamabad temple construction,” Dawn, 5 August 2020)

The proposed bifurcation of the CAA is a step in the right direction: Editorial
An editorial in the Dawn lauding the government’s plan to bifurcate the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority into two separate regulatory and operational oversight entities; the Pakistan Civil Aviation Regulatory Authority and the Pakistan Airports Authority states that this proposed bifurcation of the CAA is a step in the right direction. Further, the editorial notes that for long lobbies within the aviation sector have been powerful enough to resist reforms that would have imposed discipline and enhanced accountability, however, if the bifurcation goes ahead, this can be checked. Further, the editorial cautions that the government must not rush into legislative changes to bring about this new structure without doing its due diligence. Adding that the entity must be staffed with quality professionals and experts. Further adding that Pakistan should review practices from civil aviation authorities in developed countries. (“CAA bifurcation,” Dawn, 5 August 2020)

In Focus

Kashmir, Kashmir, Kashmir: Pakistan's obsession in full swing, as it inaugurates a "Srinagar Highway" and releases a "Kashmir postal stamp"
Abrogation of Article 370: One year later, what Pakistan has to say

Pakistan government has decided to commemorate the first anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian government as ‘Yaum-i-Istehsal’ (Day of Exploitation). Numerous events have been scheduled to mark this day: the main event being Prime Minister Imran Khan’s addressing in Muzaffarabad’s AJK Assembly to reaffirm Pakistan’s support for Kashmir cause. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi met with Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider to discuss the Kashmir issue; he said Kashmiris’ struggle would help liberate Kashmir from India. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Shibli Faraz said PM Khan’s campaign to globally expose the Indian BJP government’s Hindutva mindset and to liberate Kashmiris from India. (“Kashmiris reject India’s excesses, world silence: FM,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)

On 3 August, in honour of the sacrifices of the Kashmiris, Minister of Communications and Postal Services Murad Saeed unveiled a commemorative ‘Youm-e-Istehsal’ postal stamp to mark one year of the abrogation of Article 370 and express solidarity with the people of Kashmir. He also officially rechristened the Kashmir Highway as “Srinagar Highway”. (“Govt issues Youm-e-Istehsal stamps,” The Express Tribune, 4 August 2020) (Postal stamp issued to honour Kashmiris’ sacrifices,” Dawn, 4 August 2020) On the same day, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, SAPM on National Security Moeed Yousuf, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and FM Qureshi visited the Line of Control in Pakistan occupied Kashmir to boost the troops’ morale. (“Pervez, Qureshi, Moeed visit LoC: Kashmiris will never be left alone,” The News International, 4 August 2020)

The Pakistan media houses and dailies were also vociferous. A plethora of articles and commentaries resonate Kashmir’s struggle. Common arguments/themes can be observed. First, attempts for demographic alteration by the Indian government through the issuing of domicile certificates for the larger motive – to make Kashmiri Muslims a minority in Kashmir by muzzling dissent. Second, systemic Indian invasion of Kashmir. Third, presenting of Modi as the diehard fascist proponent of the RSS’ Hindutva ideology, who not only trampled the Fourth Geneva Convention and violated UNSC resolutions in Kashmir, but also enacted national laws that were discriminatory against Muslim citizens of India. Some articles present the combination of NRC and CAA in this light. Last, the need for the international community to remove blinkers from its eyes and address the ‘Indian tyranny’, oppression and human rights violations in the Kashmir valley.

A Dawn article by Muhammed Rafiq Dar criticized the populace of Jammu for relishing the “Hindu-Muslim game” despite bearing the brunt of the abrogation and cautioned that Islamabad was preparing to change PoK’s status quo by enacting the 14th Amendment to the 1974 AJK Interim Constitution Act and a complete annexation of “Gilgit-Baltistan to safeguard CPEC.” (“India-occupied Kashmir is on the brink of collapse,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)

Meanwhile, "AJK" President Sardar Masood Khan lamented that the granting of Kashmiri domiciles to Hindu residents of Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Haryana and Delhi were to displace and rob the rights of Kashmiris and vouched that all political forces would unanimously support Kashmiris in their struggle for self-determination (“All political forces unanimous in support of Kashmiris: AJK president,” The Nation, 4 August 2020); and Turkish Premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed Kashmir with PM Khan when the former called to exchange Eid greetings on 3 August.

However, not everyone is on board with the new stamp or the rechristening of Islamabad’s Kashmir Highway as ‘Srinagar Highway’. Malik Muhammad Ashraf, in his Opinion article titled “Year of Tyranny”, points out fault lines in Pakistan’s Kashmir policy over the years. First, “the non-state actor option of the 1990s” that has caused the dead weight of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM); second, the ‘normalization’ option of the 2000s that aimed to normalize “Indian hegemony” and Pakistan’s “strategic retreat”; and third, the symbolic gestures option (such as observing silence, singing songs, issuing stamps and so on) which commenced in 2014. According to Ashraf, the post-5 August policy of symbolic gestures such as the new stamp and the renaming the highway may just be the best of Pakistan’s limited options considering Pakistan’s limitations and Pakistan’s domestic extremism problem which is, unlike India’s, not international in nature. (“Year of tyranny,” The News International, 4 August 2020) He argues that while Indian extremism or Hindutva rage is fuelled by an inferiority complex in comparison with the West, embarrassing cross-border failures with the Chinese and failed diplomatic efforts to control Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh, Pakistan’s extremism problem rises from classes, involves tribal codes and most importantly both the victims and perpetrators are often Muslims. Thus, Pakistan’s domestic extremism does not influence national policies on “Sir Creek, Kashmir, Siachen, the Samjhota Express terror attacks, or the predations of Indian spies in Kabul, Herat or Mazar-e-Sharif.” The identified common problem, however, is that of a mismatch between ambitions and realities/capabilities. (“Kashmir repression,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)

The larger Pakistani opinion of India’s motive regarding the Indian manoeuvres in Kashmir, since 5 August 2019, was captured by Muhammad Rafiq Dar. He wrote, “put Kashmiris behind locks, muzzle voices of dissent on one hand, and on the other, continue with the settler-colonial regime — bring devotees to glorify the conquest and then bring settlers in the form of labourers.” (“India-occupied Kashmir is on the brink of collapse,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)
 

In Brief
POLITICS
PkMAP leader on the role of undemocratic forces in the affairs and politics of the country
On 3 August, Mehmood Khan Achakzai chairman of Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) said, “The real issue of the country is not Imran Khan, but the unconstitutional role and interference of undemocratic forces in the affairs and politics of the country.” He also said, that “the existing system could not run anymore, and it was about to collapse, as the basic concept of justice was being ignored and civil authority did not exist in the country.” The leader also demanded resolution on the Baloch-Pashtoon issue, saying “We need a separate Pashtoon unit. As long as the Pashtoon-Baloch issue is not resolved, the country will not progress. The Baloch are sitting in the assembly by force. We demand a united Pashtoon assembly”. (“No progress achievable without supremacy of Constitution: Achakzai,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)  

INTERNAL
Another hectic week for the Parliament 
The National Assembly and Senate are set to have another busy week commencing from 5 August after completing a hectic schedule that remained in session for almost two months. The two houses are to take up Kashmir and FATF-related legislation for discussion during this session. Further, a joint sitting of parliament has been convened by President Arif Alvi for 6 August. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Parliamentary Affairs stated that the main focus would be on passing the FATF-related bills and some other legislations of national significance. Further, the Senate has called for a special session tomorrow on the occasion of the first anniversary the removal of Article 370. The minister stated that the main purpose of the Senate session was “to send a national call and cry to the rest of the world and the institutions” on the situation in Kashmir. (Amir Wasim, “Parliament to have another hectic week,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)

Moazzam Ahmad Khan made the HC for UK and Moin-ul-Haq has been appointed as ambassador to China 
The Special Secretary of the Foreign Affairs Moazzam Ahmad Khan has been appointed as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Moin-ul-Haq as Pakistan’s new ambassador to China. Ambassador Moin-ul-Haq has assumed assignment in Beijing with a determination that the two countries would resist hegemonic designs which are increasing in the region. Moin-ul-Haq who was the former ambassador to France is said to carry out Islamabad’s desire for maintaining peace in the region with dignity and joining hands China for the cause. Moin-ul-Haq has replaced Ms Naghmana Alamgir Hashmi who has attained superannuation and stands retired after returning from Beijing. During her tenure she is said to have promoted and strengthened Pakistan's deep-rooted friendship with China, cemented economic and trade ties and took immense steps to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges under the two countries’ All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. She is also said to have supervised measures to protect the lives of Pakistani nationals stranded in Wuhan during the pandemic. (Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, “Moin becomes envoy to China, Moazzam made HC for UK,” The News International, 4 August 2020)

EXTERNAL
Reopening of the Chaman border crossing
On 4 August, Pakistan decided to reopen its border with Afghanistan at Chaman. The decision came after a flag meeting of military commanders of the two countries was held on 3 August at the Friendship Gate on the Pak-Afghan border. Commandant of Frontier Corps at Chaman, along with other officials, represented Pakistan, while Col Sharif headed the Afghan delegation at the flag meeting. Both sides submitted several proposals to resolve the issue. The border had been closed after violent incidents in Chaman which claimed at least seven lives and left many others injured. (“Pakistan to reopen Chaman border crossing today,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)

Afghan Government should pursue peace with Taliban: PM Imran Khan
On 3 August, PM Imran Khan urged the Afghan government to pursue peace with the Taliban despite the various challenges. After a telephonic conversation between the PM Khan and President Ashraf Ghani, in a statement released by the Prime Minister Office stated, “The prime minister expressed the hope that the current momentum would be further built to implement the US-Taliban peace agreement in its entirety leading to Intra-Afghan negotiations at the earliest.” Further, the two leaders discussed the latest stages of the Afghan talks and PM Khan reiterated the positive role of Pakistan in the process, strongly emphasizing that peace in Afghanistan is of paramount importance. Further, this conversation was also important as it came after the deadly border clash between the forces of the two countries. (“PM urges Afghanistan to pursue peace with Taliban at the earliest,” Dawn, 4 August 2020) 

PM Imran Khan on mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia
On 03 August, Prime Minister Imran Khan made a statement in an interview with Al Jazeera, “Our mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia have not stopped and we are making progress, but slowly”. He also added, “We have done our best to avoid a military confrontation between Iran and Saudi Arabia, and our efforts have succeeded”. The US-Iranian relations worsened after President Donald Trump’s administration withdrew from Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for easing sanctions in mid-2018. (“Efforts still under way for mediation between Iran, Saudi Arabia: PM,” Dawn, 4 August 2020) 

ON INDIA
IHC appointed three lawyers for the Kulbhushan Jadhav case
On 04 August, the Islam­abad High Court (IHC) appointed leading lawyers as amici curiae in Kulbhushan Jad­hav case and had asked Khalid Jawed Khan Attorney General for Pakistan to once again seek a response from the Indian government and Kulbhushan Jadhav regarding the appointment of counsel for his defence. Chief Justice Athar Minallah and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, IHC division said, everyone, must keep in mind right to a fair trial while issuing statements related to Jadhav”. The court also said, “We appoint Mr Abid Hassan Manto, Mr Hamid Khan, Senior Advocates of the Supreme Court and former presidents of the Sup­reme Court Bar Association, and Mr Makhdoom Ali Khan, Senior Advocate Sup­reme Court, and former Att­orney General of Pakistan, as amici curiae for our legal assistance in general and, in particular, to ensure that the judgment of the Inter­national Court is effectively implemented”. (“Three top lawyers to assist IHC in Indian spy case,” Dawn, 4 August 2020)

In Focus
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchange fire and allegations at the Chaman border

Tension continued to rise at the Pak-Afghan border in Chaman for the second consecutive day after clashes broke out between Pakistan’s border forces and people trying to cross into Afghanistan left 15 people dead after which the Pakistan Army took control of the border crossing. (“Chaman border remains volatile,” The News International, 1 August 2020)

Clashes at the border  
On 30 July, four people were killed and about 19 were injured after clashes between protesters and security forces at the Friendship Gate border crossing in Chaman, while a heavy exchange of fire also took place between the security forces of Pakistan and Afghanistan. (“Four killed, 19 injured in Chaman border clashes,” The News International, 31 July 2020) The border which remained closed for the pedestrian movement was reopened on 29 July to allow people from both sides to travel on the occasions of Eid. With a large number of people had gathered on both sides of the crossing, Frontier Corps (FC) personnel is said to have asked them to move away from the gate, however, the people refused to which the officials stated that the gate would not be opened until shifting of the protesters from the site. When the gate was not opened by the border officials, the protesters became violent and attacked the offices of FC and other government agencies located at the Friendship Gate and set the FC and Nadra offices on fire, while the FC personnel fired bullets in the air to disperse the mob as more people joined the protest from both sides of the border. (Saleem Shahid, “Three killed as mob, security forces clash at Chaman border,” Dawn, 31 July 2020)

Responses from Pakistan
The Foreign Office stated that the Pakistani troops had responded to firing by the Afghan forces. Stating, “Pakistani Force did not open fire first and responded in self-defence only,” rejecting the Afghan allegation of firing at the civilian population. Further, the FO stated accused Afghan forces of firing on civilians gathered at the international border on the side of Pakistan. Further, FO Spokesperson said that the Afghan forces had "deliberately targeted" people gathered to cross the border. However, the FO also made some conciliatory remarks stating, “Pakistan reiterates its sincere readiness to further enhance fraternal relations with Afghanistan in the interest of peace and stability in the region. We hope our constructive efforts will be reciprocated.” (Naveed Siddiqui, Reuters, “Pakistan says troops responded to Afghan fire at Chaman border 'only in self-defence',” Dawn, 31 July 2020)

Responses from Afghanistan 
Afghan officials accused Pakistan of firing shells and gunfire across the border into a crowd of civilians. Further, the Afghan Defence Ministry, Chief of General Staff of the Afghan Armed Forces ordered “befitting response” to Pakistani troops, ordering the provision of small and heavy weapons to the Afghan forces deployed along the border. Meanwhile, the Afghan National Security Council has stated that the matter would be followed through by relevant channels and that the “required action” will be taken. (Kalbe Ali, Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Islamabad, Kabul trade charges over Chaman clash,” Dawn, 1 August 2020)

In Brief
INTERNAL
Silencing of a journalist must end: Analysis
According to the analysis by Tariq Khosa, the recent case of kidnapping should provide lawmakers with an opportunity to rein in the agencies considering them above law. Stating, “the ‘silence of the lambs’ must be broken if this nation is to qualify as a democracy where the rule of law is supreme.” It also focused on the chief justice of the Islamabad High Court verdict over kidnapping, “No one is above the law and every citizen, including the state, is subservient to the rule of law and the supremacy of the Constitution” and comment by a police officer, that the perpetrators used police-like vehicles and wore police uniforms to create the perception that it was another act of police high-handedness, given the general reputation of the police for resorting to illegal detentions and torture which was indeed a misleading act. (“Let us rise,” Dawn, 1 August 2020)

“Powers” constrain MQM-P, PSP activities: News Report
After four years since the removal of Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) founder Altaf Hussain, political parties MQM and PSP confide that interference of the establishment in affairs of the parties make it difficult for them to do politics. Hussain was banned following his Aug 22, 2016, incendiary speech. Senior leaders of both the parties are facing court cases and the conclusion of cases is nowhere in sight. Neither, the PSP nor the MQM-P was allowed to collect zakat and fitra in Ramzan and this year too they have not been allowed to collect hides on Eidul Azha. Leaders of the parties are frequently called to confidential meetings by the “powers” to pass on instruction. The “establishment” has tried to convince the political parties of the advantages of having a union with PTI for the “benefit of Karachi”. (“MQM-P, PSP on a tight leash,” Dawn, 01 August 2020)

ON FATF BILLS
PML-N and PPP on three bills on Terrorism Act and FATF
According to the analysis, the opposition parties have once again raised disagreement in three bills on the Terrorism Act and the FATF. The opposition leaders said most provision would have allowed a person to be picked up for up to six months without any arrest, also extension in the tenure of the chairperson of NAB. While the bills now await the final president’s signature. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said the opposition had all along sought to blackmail the government by refusing to sign the bills pertaining to the FATF until changes were made in the NAB bill. (“Opposition unity,” The News International, 1 August 2020)

Senator Hussain says FATF is a new weapon to pressurize countries
Senator Mushahid Hussain while addressing a webinar organized by the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies said “The FATF is a new weapon to pressurize countries to comply and recently the UAE has been warned on the matters of financing, but the fact is that we should clean our house ourselves.” He stressed on issues faced by Pakistan today were the fallout of previous build-up relation to Afghan jihad. At the same time, he also mentioned, the world was changing and the decline of the West was evident, particularly during the Covid-19 crisis. (“FATF gave Pakistan chance to put its house in order: Mushahid” Dawn, 1 August 2020)

FATF bills on Anti-Terrorism and United Nations amendment bill 2020  
According to the analysis, Pakistan appears to be much better placed for its next assessment by the FATF. On 30 July, both houses of parliament passed two FATF bills, the Anti-Terrorism Bill 2020, and the United Nations (Security Council) Amendment Bill 2020. As of February, the global watchdog had informed Pakistan that it had accomplished only 14 items of the 27-point action plan it had committed. As coming off the grey list would enhance Pakistan’s economic position. (“Beyond FATF,” Dawn, 01 August 2020)

ON INDIA
An opinion says that Modi’s Kashmir blunder has brought South Asia to the precipice of a disaster
An opinion in the News International titled Modi’s Kashmir blunder critical of the Indian PM states that fifth August will be remembered as a day in history when the BJP government led by RSS-trained and Hindutva-inspired Narendra Modi to robbed from the people of Kashmir their special status and identity by abrogating Article 370 and all other associated legal provisions such as Article 35-A. While trying to analysis the events one year later, the author notes that Modi’s Kashmir blunder not only for Kashmir but for India as well as Indo-Pakistan bilateral relations, adding that his action brought the international spotlight back on the region. Further, the opinion notes ‘In what appears to be an action inspired by ideological considerations, Modi and his junta of hardcore ideologues repudiated the peace overtures and embarked on a potentially dangerous course that will redefine the political and strategic landscape of South Asia.’ The author concluded by stating that in the absence of any chance for dialogue, Kashmir has emerged as a South Asia’s most dangerous nuclear flashpoint. Further, adding that given the reality of India-Pakistan relations Modi’s Kashmir blunder has brought South Asia to the precipice of a disaster. (Amanat Ali Chaudhry, “Modi’s Kashmir blunder,” The News International, 1 August 2020)

First-year anniversary of Article 370
On 31 July, the government unveiled an aggressive action plan to observe the first anniversary of Article 370 on August 5 last by holding worldwide rallies, solidarity marches, renaming of an inter-provincial highway, introducing special postal stamps with hard-hitting depictions and holding a parliamentary session. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said as the whole Kashmiri leadership was under detention, Pakistan would forcefully raise their voice globally until Kashmiris got their right to self-determination. He also said, the government had decided to rename the Kashmir Highway, which connected the Federal Capital with Kashmir and other provinces, after Srinagar. (“Pakistan’s destination is Srinagar,” The News International, 1 August 2020)

Ordinance on Kulbhushan Yadav verdict
On 31 July, Pakistan’s Law Minister Farogh Naseem told the National Assembly that the ordinance was necessary to grant consular access to Indian spy Kulbhushan Yadav. Stating that the ordinance had not been promulgated then India would have invoked Article 94 of the UN Charter that gives the Security Council the power to give effect to an ICJ judgment and has saved Pakistan from serious repercussions. The analysis examines Article 94, paragraph 2 of the UN Charter, “If any party to a case fails to perform the obligations incumbent upon it under a judgment rendered by the Court, the other party may have recourse to the Security Council, which may if it deems necessary, make recommendations or decide upon measures to be taken to give effect to the judgment”, says that the Security Council “may” exercise its powers “if it deems necessary”- as subject to Security Council’s discretion. Also, highlight, it is very unlikely that the Security Council would adopt a resolution merely on the pretext that an individual, who was involved in criminal espionage and terrorism activities were denied consular access. (“The curious case of ICJ review ordinance,” The News International, 1 August 2020)

Rafale jets will become more of a liability than an asset for India
A report in the News International states that recent addition of the French-made Rafale planes acquired by India is out of place since the added machinery will only become more of a liability than an asset. Adding that the Rafale is not going to provide any superiority to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in South Asian and adjacent skies in the presence of Chinese J-20 stealth multirole fighter and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) supersonic fitted with a variety of beyond visual missiles. Further, the note points out that although the Rafale manufacturers have made mighty claims about the security system of the plane, its history does not say the same due to air accidents that have taken place. Further, quoting Indian defence analyst Rahul Bedi who has warned the leadership in India about the handicaps attached with the newly acquired planes from France which are going to only further add to the overall logistics and maintenance costs to a force which is already financially overstrained. (Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, “Rafale liability or asset for IAF,” The News International, 1 August 2020)