In Brief
INTERNAL
Borders are secure, armed forces prepared to meet any situation, says COAS
On 30 August, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa briefed parliamentarians about the security situation along Pakistan’s borders as well as the Pakistan Army’s efforts for peace and security. He said that Pakistan’s borders were secure despite the challenges the country faces and that the armed forces were “prepared to meet any situation.” Further, he stated that due to “timely steps” taken by the armed forces for management of the western border zone, Pakistan’s borders were secure despite challenges. (Naveed Siddiqui, “Pakistan's borders are secure, armed forces prepared to meet any situation: COAS,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

PM Imran urges provinces to stabilise prices of essential items
On 30 August, PM Khan directed the provincial governments to ensure that administrative measures are taken to stabilise prices of basic items and check the illogical difference existing between wholesale and retail rates. Additionally, he reviewed the demand and supply as well as cost of essential items at a meeting and ordered the provincial chief secretaries to ensure the stability of prices at wholesale and retail levels. He said, “As prices of basic essential items have hit the common man hard, the present government’s foremost priority is to protect them.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran asks provinces to stabilise prices of essential items,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

Shehbaz, Bilawal criticise PMDA, promise to oppose the ‘black law’ in parliament
On 30 August, The News International reported that Shehbaz Sharif and Bilawal Bhutto criticised the government over the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority. They promised to oppose the ‘black law’ at the floor of parliament adding that they will do their best to oppose the government’s efforts to legislate the PMDA. Additionally, Shehbaz said that this legislation was a matter of life and death for the media, independent journalism, democracy and basic freedom guaranteed by the Constitution. (“Shehbaz, Bilawal slam PMDA, pledge to back media struggle,” The News International, 31 August 2021)

One party not enough to solve national problems, says Shehbaz
On 30 August, Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan's problems on the economic, political and foreign policy front could be solved through a consensus national government. He said one party is not enough to address the problems, with collective wisdom and efforts. According to Shehbaz, the problems include “economic blunders” of Imran Khan, increasing “international isolation” and the foreign policy in light of the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan. Dawn quoted him stressing the need for consistent, collective measures from legitimate democratic forces to fix internal and social security matters as well. (Imran Ayub, “Shehbaz floats idea of national govt,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

Editorial says PDM should reassess its goals
An editorial in Dawn, written in light of the PDM’s latest rally on 29 August, opines that after the PPP’s exit, the alliance does not appear to have a strong agenda and has almost been reduced to a PML-N and JUI-F project. Outlining the PDM’s initial agenda of public mobilisation and long march, the editorial says the alliance collapsed due to disagreements between the PPP and the PML-N and JUI-F. It says that PDM has no other option to take down the government and should consider reassessing its goals before the next elections. It says that the PDM may want to have some clarity given that the PM is now consolidating support for the next elections. (“Unclear PDM goals,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: One soldier killed in South Waziristan district by an IED attack
On 30 August, one soldier was killed in South Waziristan after an improvised explosive device went off during an exchange of fire. Additionally, during an intense exchange of fire one of the terrorists trying to flee away got killed. (“Soldier martyred in S. Waziristan blast,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Government debt recorded at PKR 31.78 trillion
On 30 August, the State Bank of Pakistan data showed that the federal government’s total debt stood at PKR 38.7 trillion at the end of FY21, reflecting a 21.7 per cent from the PKR  31.78 trillion in FY19. The figure was mainly attributed to the increase in domestic debt by 26.7 per cent over the two years, from PKR 20.732 trillion in FY19 to PKR 26.265 trillion in FY 21. Meanwhile, the external debt rose from PKR 11.055 trillion in FY19 to PKR 12.42 trillion in FY21. (Shahid Iqbal, “Govt debt up by 22pc to Rs38.7tr in two years,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinion calls for end to victim blaming
An opinion in The News International, referring to the rising instances of rape and assault, lists out the reasons why several cases go unreported. The author says one reason is the stigma and other the lack of trust in the judicial system due to weak prosecution. However, a bizarre phenomenon contributing to this is victim blaming. The author says this act reflects the ugly face of the society and reiterates that the society needs to treat the survivor with empathy. Highlighting that if survivors are treated in the right way, the author says it would pave the way for more women to report cases and get justice; therefore, the author calls for an end to victim blaming. (Mustafa Abdullah Baloch, “Victim blaming,” The News International, 31 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Minister rules out long term presence of US troops
On 31 August, Dawn reported that the Interior Minister said the US troops who left Afghanistan will not stay in Pakistan for long. He said visas issued to foreigners in transit have a 21 to 30 days validity. He said that from the Torkham, 2,192 individuals had entered Pakistan, 1,627 landed in Islamabad by air and a small number had come through the Chaman border. Meanwhile, he ruled out a migrant influx into Pakistan and said that those traveling between the Pakistan-Afghanistan border on a daily basis was normal. (Iftikhar A Khan, “US troops’ stay here is temporary: minister,” Dawn, 31 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that even in today’s polarised times, it is usually progressive legislation including women-friendly laws, which can bring the parties together in parliament.

An editorial in Dawn states that the US’s unilateral drone strikes on Islamic State group active in Afghanistan are deeply problematic. It adds, instead of America acting on its own, the anti-IS effort should be spearheaded by the Afghans and supported by regional as well as international powers. Similarly, an editorial in The News International states that with the US turned to drone strikes once again is likely to increase the acrimony and bitterness in this region that has already consumed at least four decades.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on the PDM states that the return of Shehbaz Sharif to public exposure, after a voluntary hiatus, enabled the PDM to recast itself, arguing that the alliance under Fazalur Rehman had become defunct since the PPP’s exit. Similarly, an editorial in The News International, the PDM seems to be making some plans for on-ground action, however, the question remains the same: what is the end game here and is the PDM really strong enough for a successful venture to Islamabad? It argues that given the past year this does not seem very likely. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM holds power-show in Bagh-i-Jinnah, Karachi
On 29 August, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) staged a comeback rally in Karachi announcing to rebuild the momentum of rallies and caravans against the PTI government aimed at ending the “unjust rule.” Addressing the rally via a video link, Nawaz Sharif blamed “a few generals and elite class” of hijacking the country’s democratic system. He vowed he would not stay silent anymore. Additionally, Maulana Fazlur Rahman said, “Insha Allah, from now onwards you would see not only the rallies but also road caravans across the country and definitely, there would be a march to Islamabad,” adding, “This is an unjust and illegal government that has only learnt to suppress the common man, increase poverty and make people unemployed and homeless. We want a strong parliamentary system in this country and we have promised to 220 million of Pakistan that we would keep struggling for that.” (Imran Ayub, “JUI-F chief to lead PDM march on capital,” Dawn, 30 August 2021) Meanwhile, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi stated that the government is not at all worried over ‘out-of-season’ public gatherings of the PDM but is concerned that these rallies may lead to the spread of coronavirus. He said, “The opposition could hold its public gatherings once the pandemic is over.” (Shakeel Ahmed, “PDM rallies to cause hike in Covid cases: FM Qureshi,” Dawn, 30 August 2021)

Military leadership to brief three parliamentary committees today
On 30 August (today), the military leadership will provide a security briefing to three parliamentary committees at the GHQ. The committees include the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir, Senate Standing Committee on Defence and the NA Standing Committee on Defence. Dawn reports that the briefing would include a discussion on Kashmir and also on the Afghanistan situation since the Taliban took over on 15 August. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Three parliamentary panels to get briefing in GHQ today,” Dawn, 30 August 2021

Shehbaz willing to contest from Karachi for general elections
On 29 August, Shehbaz Sharif announced his intention to contest the next general elections from Karachi. He said instead of being treated as a role model for the country, Karachi was being treated like a stepchild. He said that Karachi was key to Pakistan’s prosperity; he said he would unite all political parties, except the PTI, to solve the city’s problems which he said include water shortage, inadequate healthcare and education facilities; he blamed the PTI for the problems of Karachi and said it failed to address the same over the last three years. (“To solve Karachi’s problems: Shehbaz pledges to unite all parties sans PTI,” The News International, 30 August 2021) (“Shehbaz to stand for election from Karachi,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Security personnel and civilians killed in series of attacks 
On 29 August, three security personnel and two civilians were killed in an IED blast launched from the Afghan side of the Bajaur checkpost. The ISPR said that security forces killed three terrorists in a retaliatory fire. Separately, police said one sepoy was killed when terrorists targeted a bomb disposal squad in South Waziristan’s Sherwangi Kandy post, with an IED. In a separate attack, one civilian was killed and two people, including a soldier, injured, in an IED attack in North Waziristan’s Razmak subdivision. (“3 personnel, 2 civilians martyred in terrorist attacks in merged districts,” Dawn, 30 August 2021)

Punjab: Provincial government considers establishing Leh Nullah Development Authority
On 30 August, Dawn reported that the provincial government was deliberating on establishing the Leh Nullah Development Authority (LNDA) to address the flooding problem and enhance catchments. The draft of the LNDA Act has been sent for approval. An official told Dawn that in the absence of an Act, it has been difficult to form a uniform policy as some stretches fall within the cantonment and others in the city limits. (Aamir Yasin, “Punjab considering setting up Leh Nullah Development Authority,” Dawn, 30 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Inflation to increase over nine per cent due to monetary expansion, says Ministry of Finance
On 30 August, The Express Tribune reported that a new report by the Ministry of Finance shows that inflation may increase over nine per cent due to monetary expansion, increase in international commodity prices. Further, the report added that the current account deficit could remain over half a billion dollars in August 2021. Year-on-year inflation is expected to fluctuate around 7.6 per cent - 9.2 per cent in August. Previously, inflation had been recorded at 8.4 per cent in July 2021. (“Inflation likely to be over 9%,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2021)

ON INDIA
Foreign Office rejects Indian defence minister’s ‘baseless’ allegations
On 29 August, the Foreign Office said, “We categorically reject Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s terrorism-related allegations against Pakistan as completely baseless,” adding, that India was targeting Pakistan with alleged false propaganda campaigns for both ideological reasons and political expediency. Further, the statement read, “[Pakistan] wants to maintain peace in the region despite irresponsible Indian behaviour. Our desire for peace notwithstanding, Pakistan will resolutely defend itself against any aggressive Indian designs,” adding, “Pakistan has shared incontrovertible evidence with the international community of India’s state sponsorship of terrorism and subversion against Pakistan. India uses terrorism as an instrument of state policy.” (“FO rubbishes Indian defence minister’s baseless allegations ,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Issue of TTP is not for Afghanistan to resolve but Pakistan, says Taliban
On 30 August, The Express Tribune reported that Taliban spokesperson stated that the issue of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is not for Afghanistan to resolve but the Pakistani government. The spokesperson said, “It is dependent upon Pakistan, and Pakistani ulema, not the Taliban, to decide whether or not the TTP’s war is legitimate and to formulate a strategy in response,” Further, the spokesperson said, “our stance is that the Afghan soil will not be used by anyone to destroy the peace of another country,” adding that if the TTP considered the Taliban their leaders they would follow their orders. (“Taliban seek Pakistan’s help in resolving Afghan matter,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2021)

Maleeha Lodhi in an opinion in Dawn states that three years on, the Imran Khan government is in a more comfortable position than it has been in the past. However, she argues that Pakistan’s volatile environment political fortunes can shift quickly and consequentially, adding that the government has many domestic and foreign policy challenges to navigate as well as governance issues and vulnerabilities to address.

An opinion in Dawn states that as pressure increases on the Taliban to act against terrorist groups there remains a possibility that just as the Taliban may consider these groups for leverage/ barga­in­ing in the region, these groups may themselves use a possible alliance with IS-K as a lever against the Taliban.

An opinion in Dawn argues that advancement in digital media does not mean that it be subjected to the kind of censorship as traditional media. It explains that states now have to give up idea of control the people’s thoughts and opinions and their choices of information consumption, instead of seeking to manufacture their consent through a consolidated state censor.

An editorial in Dawn argues that Pakistan’s political leadership and policymakers should focus on a comprehensive economic framework with short- to long-term targets for addressing structural problems in the economy.

An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the depleting groundwater states that wholesome initiatives need to be implemented to conserve water, reduce wastage and tackle the consequences in a long-term manner.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Government restricts all employees from using social media platforms
On 28 August, Dawn reported that the federal government in an attempt to prevent leak of official information and documents has barred all government employees from using social media platforms. The notification was issued by the Establishment Division and instructed all government employees not participate in any media platform except with the permission of the government. Further, the notification stated that the orders were not intended to discourage any constructive and positive use of social media by a government employee or institution for engaging the people to solicit feedback on a government policy. (Kalbe Ali, “Govt employees barred from using social media platforms,” Dawn, 28 August 2021)

NAB has recovered Rs 822 billion directly and indirectly since its inception
On 27 August, National Accountability Bureau Chairman Justice (retd) Javed Iqbal has said, “Since its inception, the NAB has directly and indirectly deposited Rs 822 billion while the conviction rate in NAB cases is 66 per cent which is an excellent performance compared to other anti-corruption organisations.” He added, “the NAB is committed to a corruption-free Pakistan as NAB officers are considering eradication of corruption from Pakistan as their national duty.” (“NAB recovered Rs 822 bn since its inception: chairman,” The News International, 28 August 2021)

PIA records PKR 25 billion losses
On 26 August, the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation sent a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), wherein it said that it had recorded a loss of PKR 25 billion in six months until 30 June 2021. This figure, however, was lower than the loss recorded in the corresponding period in 2020, when the losses were recorded at PKR 36.5 billion, thereby marking a 31.5 per cent reduction in losses. The PIA spokesperson said the losses were reduced by cutting down on administrative, finance and distribution costs. (Usman Hanid, “PIA losses go down 31.5% to Rs25b,” The Express Tribune, 28 August 2021)

Acting Chief Justice meets with Justice Isa, Attorney General 
On 27 August, the Acting Chief Justice Umar Bandial met with Justice Isa and the Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Khalid Jawed Khan. The meeting comes amid speculations of a widening divide within the judiciary. Previously, on 26 August, the Supreme Court Bar Association President, in light of a verdict on suo motu notices, said that the Supreme Court should restrain from acting in a divided manner and called for protecting the constitution. Sources opined that the meeting, therefore, indicated a positive gesture aimed at dismissing any speculations on the judiciary. (Nasir Iqbal, “Acting CJ Umar Ata Bandial holds meeting with Justice Qazi Faez Isa,” Dawn, 28 August 2021) 

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: One terrorist killed in North Waziristan
On 27 August, the ISPR stated that security forces killed one terrorist in North Waziristan Spinwam area during an intelligence-based operation. Additionally, the security forces have recovered ammunition from the terrorist, while a search operation is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists. (“One terrorist killed in North Waziristan operation, says ISPR,” The News International, 28 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Finance Minister unveils economic plans 
On 27 August, Finance Minister Shaukat Tareen launched an economic plan for 14 sectors, with short-term, medium-term and long-term aims. The sectors include agriculture, MSMEs, tourism, construction and others. He said the plan would be sustainable, inclusive and reviewed on a monthly basis, with assistance from the Economic Reforms Unit and Pakistan Institute of Development Economics. The plan focuses on completion of CPEC projects, implementation of Renewable Energy Policy and National Power Policy, and promotion of export-oriented growth. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Tarin unveils economic plans for 14 key sectors,” Dawn, 28 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan must tell Taliban their old ways are unacceptable, says opinion
In an opinion in Dawn, Pervez Hoodbhoy writes about the “reformed Taliban” and traces that the new Taliban leaders, unlike the older ones, are likely to understand the importance of economics and says that those who have been to Doha, will demand change. Hoodbhoy says, they might even send their children to regular schools instead of madrassas, but outlines that for that to happen, international aid is important. Further highlighting the resource wealth in Afghanistan, Hoodbhoy traces a complicated geopolitical engagement with Russia, China and reiterates that Pakistan would like to play a key role in the same. He says that the Afghan Taliban has allies within Islamabad and opines that there is ideological closeness between Naya Taliban and Naya Pakistan. Hoodbhoy concludes by saying that Pakistan must use this influence to convince Taliban to discard their old ways and promote women’s rights, and also welcome Afghan refugees; however, he says, “For this message to get across, we might first have to get our own house in order.” (Pervez Hoodbhoy, “A reformed Taliban?,” Dawn, 28 August 2021)

Pakistan side of border with Afghanistan is secure, says ISPR
On 27 August, the Director General ISPR said that the Pakistan side of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border was “secure.” He said that the armed forces were ensuring that there would be no spillover of any instability into Pakistan. He also mentioned that all illegal border crossings were closed and informed that several Afghan National Army soldiers who had been allowed to enter were given a safe passage to return. (“Pakistan side of Afghan border is secure: DG ISPR,” Dawn, 28 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn on the NADRA versus ECP says that the debate has bogged down in legalities that some of the proposed reforms conflict with the Constitution, particularly, the preparation of the voter lists.

An opinion in Dawn on the three years of PTI and PM Khan’s promise of a ‘Naya Pakistan’ states that the broad sweep of the promised reform has gradually shrunk to what can be termed as tinkering with an already broken system. It asks, Who has changed more: Pakistan or PTI? Similarly, an editorial in The News International argues that the PTI government’s three years in power have been a mixed bag of achievements and failures.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the Kabul Airport attack states that past mistakes must not be repeated in Afghanistan, adding that the forces must lead an internationally supported effort to disable IS in the country. Similarly, an editorial in The News International states that the sad reality is that neither the world powers nor the militant factions in Afghanistan are showing any empathy for the main victims of this war and violence, that is the people of Afghanistan. An editorial in The Express Tribune on the issue argues that unlike the previous Afghan government, the Taliban have shown the resolve to fight the multinational terrorist group.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the impact of Climate Change states that the world needs to wake up and change its ruinous ways.

An opinion in The News International on why men should read womansplaining states that ‘womansplaining’ helps fill a gap in one minds and hearts. It also help one opens up a new vista, helping men grasp the unfathomable realities of why women continue to resist.

An opinion in The News International critical of the gender gap in the country states that Pakistan can either choose to address these issues at a micro and macro level or continue to plummet in gender-related rankings by further marginalising 50 percent of its human capital, which is its biggest asset and resource.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Clerics reject anti-forced conversion bill, call it a conspiracy
On 26 August, clerics belonging to Shia, Barelvi, Deobandi and Ahle Hadi schools of thought rejected the draft anti-forced conversion bill, and denied the existence of forced conversions in Pakistan. Terming it a conspiracy, the clerics said the government should restrain itself from falling into the West’s alleged traps. The meeting was chaired by the Council of Islamic Ideology, and attended by officials of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, followed by a unanimous rejection of the bill. (Kalbe Ali, “Clerics reject proposed anti-forced conversion law,” Dawn, 27 August 2021)

Editorial calls for including minorities to discuss anti-forced conversion bill 
An editorial in The News International outlines that a meeting called by the Ministry of Religious Affairs for discussing the anti-forced conversion bill did not include the primary stakeholders and victims, the country’s minorities. Outlining that forced conversions deeply impact minority families, the editorial opines that any law relating to the issue should be passed with their approval. Therefore, the editorial concludes that their exclusion only shows how much is thought about the minorities and their views, and calls for their inclusion.  (“Conversion law,” The News International, 27 August 2021)

All hotels in Islamabad to be reserved for evacuees from Afghanistan
On 26 August, the Islamabad administration started arranging accommodation at all hotels in the city for foreigners being evacuated from Afghanistan; hotels have been asked to suspend reservations for 21 days starting 27 August (today). Around 1,500 foreigners are expected to arrive from next week; police and paramilitary forces have been put on high alert. (Munawer Azeem, “Hotels being readied in Islamabad to accommodate people leaving Afghanistan,” Dawn, 27 August 2021)

Only Chief Justice of Pakistan can invoke suo motu notice: SC 
On 26 August, the Supreme Court observed that only the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) can initiate suo motu notices. A bench, headed by Justice Bandial, hearing a suo motu notice initiated by Justice Isa against harassing journalists, dismissed it citing that the sole authority lay with the CJP. The bench also maintained that the CJP can invoke suo motu on the recommendation of a bench. (“Only CJP can take suo motu notices, rules SC,” The News International, 27 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Four security personnel killed in terrorist attack
On 26 August, four security personnel were killed and six injured in terrorist attacks, claimed by the Balochistan Liberation Army, in Ziarat and Panjgur districts. Three of the deceased personnel belonged to the Levies Force; Dawn cited official sources who said that the Levies Force were on a search operation for four labourers who were reported to be missing; the kidnappers released two labourers when the Levies Force chased them. The other deceased security personnel belonged to the Frontier Corps and was killed in a bomb blast in Panjgur. (Behram Baloch and Saleem Shahid, “Four security men martyred in Ziarat, Panjgur bomb attacks,” Dawn, 27 August 2021

ECONOMY
Foreign exchange reserves fall to USD 17,625 million
On 26 August, data from the State Bank of Pakistan showed that its foreign exchange had been recorded at USD 17,578.9 million on 20 August, down by 0.3 per cent compared to USD 17,625.9 million on 13 August. The SBP however maintained that the reserves would increase by 2 September, once the IMF allocates USD 2.7 billion through its Special Drawing Rights. The bank said the current dip occured due to loan repayments. (“SBP reserves fall $47m to $17.58b,” The Express Tribune, 27 August 2021)

Prosperity Index improves by 12.8 per cent 
On 26 August, a study by the Policy Research Institute of Market Economy (PRIME) showed that the Pakistan Prosperity Index (PPI) stood at 135.9 in June, reflecting an increase of 12.8 per cent, after falling in April and May. The PPI takes into account the “trade volume, lending to the private sector, purchasing power and manufacturing output indices.” The improvement in the PPI is based on facts that trade volume rose PKR 548 billion year-on-year, lending to private sectors was recorded at PKR 390.8 billion, large-scale manufacturing rose by 4.36 percent month-on-month. (Mehtab Haider, “Pakistan Prosperity Index up 13pc as businesses pick up,” The News International, 27 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
No time to be lost to change mindsets, says opinion 
An opinion in The News International, citing the various reports of harassment of women on Independence Day, says the shock for women is also a result of the reaction from men which is characterised by defending the men’s behaviour and victim-blaming. The author outlines that several men, including the educated, have said the victim in the Minar-e-Pakistan incident provoked the incident. The author says that in the Minar-e-Pakistan incident, the men’s “unruly or criminal behaviour is a reflection on the state of our society.” Therefore, the author says, changing mindset should begin early, by treating boys and girls equally, be it at home, in education or at the workplace, and warns that there is no time to be lost. (Kamila Hyat, “The world of women,” The News International, 27 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
UK Intelligence Service chief meets with COAS
On 26 August, the UK Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service met with COAS General Bajwa. The ISPR said the two officials discussed matters of mutual interest, intelligence and defence collaboration, especially in light of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. In another development, Pakistan remained on the UK’s travel red list; this came after the UK reviewed the situation and despite the Pakistan High Commission and British Pakistani MPs lobbying; they expressed disappointment at the decision. (Atika Rehman, “Pakistan remains on UK red list for travel,” Dawn, 27 August 2021) (“UK's Secret Intelligence Service chief calls on Army chief Bajwa,” Dawn, 27 August 2021)

US, Pakistan need to work together, says Moeed Yusuf
On 26 August, the National Security Adviser was interviewed by The Washington Post, wherein Moeed Yusuf said, “Right now, in the situation we are in, how are US and Pakistan’s interests not aligned,” adding, “I’m not asking for any sympathy for Pakistan...I’m thinking in terms of pure US selfish national interests. How does it help to push away a country of this size, stature and power.” He said the two countries need to move beyond the past and work together now as partners and also called on the international community to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. (“Pakistan, US should move on and work together in Afghanistan: NSA,” Dawn, 27 August 2021)

Qureshi meets Iranian President, Foreign Minister 
On 26 August, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. The President reportedly appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen the regional approach to the Afghan crisis. Qureshi also met with his Iranian counterpart and stressed the need for a regional approach for the “security, stability and inclusive political settlement” of the Afghanistan situation. The Foreign Office quoted Qureshi, “Return of peace in Afghanistan would provide impetus to greater economic integration, regional connectivity and facilitate people-to-people linkages.” (Naveed Siddiqui, “In meeting with Iranian president, FM Qureshi emphasises continued consultations on Afghan future,” Dawn, 27 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that the biggest development challenge for Pakistan, both social and economic, is unhindered population growth. It warns that unless Pakistan undertakes a complete paradigm shift on the population issue, the country would just be compounding the problem.

An opinion in Dawn states that the judicial leadership can set its house in order by laying down iron-clad conventions and clear rules. It adds, judicial reforms cannot be put off, arguing that a credible efficient judicial order is key to meeting the challenges that beset the country.

An editorial in Dawn argues that in projecting the Single National Curriculum as a major step towards ending Pakistan’s ‘educational apartheid’ the government is completely off course. It adds that SNC is not even a partial solution, arguing that it may have deleterious consequences.

An editorial in The News International critical of forced conversions states that the issue is not a new phenomenon in Pakistan, however, unfortunately, most of the people in Pakistan remain unaware or unconcerned of this major issue. Additionally, the worst part is the group most adversely affected by forced conversions was not even invited to give its view on the proposed bill.

An editorial in The News International on devolution matters states that political parties in power in all provinces must show interest in empowering the third tier of government without trying to hold on to as much power as they can.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Government to take exports to record levels by 2023, says Commerce Advisor 
On 25 August, Commerce Advisor Abdul Razak Dawood stated that the government would take exports to record levels by 2023 by providing a better business environment for the industrial sector in the country. He said, “Pakistan’s rise in the last two years from 148 points to 108 points in the World Bank’s EoDB rankings report is a milestone in the growth of foreign investment in the country,” adding, “One of our main areas is to work on improving the country’s EoBD ranking to provide a better business environment for foreign and local investment in the country. Besides this, the government is also committed to decrease the cost of doing business in the country.” (“Exports to reach record levels by 2023: Razak,” Dawn, 26 August 2021)

SBP to launch new product ‘Roshan Apna Ghar’ for NRP
On 25 August, the State Bank of Pakistan announced that it would be launching a new product ‘Roshan Apna Ghar’ for non-resident Pakistanis (NRPs) for the acquisition of property in the country. In a statement, the bank said, “Non-resident Pakistanis can now purchase or obtain financing for a house in Pakistan through Roshan Digital Account.” It added, “Roshan Apna Ghar is the new lifestyle banking product in the same category,” adding that non-resident Pakistanis can now easily buy or obtain financing with the comfort of sitting in their houses abroad without the need to visit a bank branch. (Shahid Iqbal, “Roshan Apna Ghar scheme for overseas Pakistanis soon,” Dawn, 26 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Water shortage worsening with each passing day at all three barrages, says authorities 
On 26 August, Dawn reported that water shortage is worsening at all three barrages of Sindh due to reduced upstream flows. The decline in water has forced irrigation authorities to resort to rotation programmes to apportion limited water among all recipients in measured quantity. Currently, Guddu and Sukkur barrages are facing 19 per cent and 14 per cent shortage. Additionally, a shortage in water flows has also been recorded for Balochistan, prompting irrigation authorities to start a rotation programme for Sukkur Barrage’s four left bank canals so that water can be provided to right bank canals. (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Water shortage worsens at all Sindh barrages in wake of reduced flows in system,” Dawn, 26 August 2021)

Balochistan: People protest over the killing of miners in Shangla
On 25 August, residents of different areas in Shangla took to the streets to protest the killing of two coalminers in Balochistan province. Criticising the government, the protesters placed the bodies of the slain miners on the road at Alpuri Chowk and blocked the road. Additionally, the vice-president of the Coalmine Workers Federation said, “We want justice for the victims as it is the third incident of killing of Shangla miners in Balochistan within a month. The Balochistan government should compensate the families of the slain miners in the same way as it had compensated the members of Hazara community last year.” (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Shangla people take to streets against miners’ killing,” Dawn, 26 August 2021)

ECONOMY
ECC approves import of sugar, wheat
On 25 August, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved the import of 200,000 tonnes of sugar and 400,000 tonnes of wheat with immediate effect through the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) out of an already approved quantity of about 600,000 tonnes for strategic reserves to contain price hike. Additionally, it approved Rs24.555 billion supplementary grant for procurement of Covid-19 vaccines. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ECC okays import of sugar, wheat,” Dawn, 26 August 2021)

Rising international commodity prices, higher import bills and current account deficit pose threat to the economy
On 25 August, at a meeting of the Monetary and Fiscal Policies Coordination Board (MFPCB) presided over by Finance Minister and State Bank of Pakistan Governor highlighted that the rising international commodity prices, higher import bill and current account deficit (CAD) have implications for higher import bill and inflation. They added that these would be key risks to the macroeconomic outlook and decided to have closer coordination and vigilance for policy adjustments to support higher growth. In this light, the finance minister asked “for designing and executing policies to achieve economic targets and overcome the possible risks.” (Khaleeq Kiani, “Rising current account deficit, imports pose threat to economy,” Dawn, 26 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
PM Khan speaks with President Putin, says Peaceful Afghanistan is vital for Pakistan and regional stability
On 25 August, Prime Minister Imran Khan in a telephonic conversation with President Vladimir Putin stressed that a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan was vitally important for Pakistan and regional stability. He also highlighted the importance of coordinated approaches in addressing the evolving situation and emphasised the importance of the Troika Plus format. Additionally, the two sides also discussed issues related to bilateral relations, as PM Khan expresses satisfaction at the upward trajectory of their relations. (“Peaceful Afghanistan vital for Pakistan and regional stability, Imran tells Putin,” The Express Tribune, 26 August 2021)

NSA discusses Afghanistan with Kazakhstan Secretary of the Security Council
On 25 August, National Security Advisor (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf spoke with Kazakhstan Secretary of the Security Council Asset Issekeshev. During the meeting, they discussed regional security, particularly the situation in Afghanistan. Additionally, they discussed matters of mutual interest and agreed to remain engaged while reiterating the importance of peaceful political settlement for Afghanistan. (“Pakistan, Kazakhstan seek all-inclusive govt in Afghanistan,” The Express Tribune, 26 August 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry sworn in as “AJK” president
On 25 August, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry was sworn in as the President of “Azad Jammu and Kashmir.” The oath was administered by “AJK” Supreme Court Chief Justice, Justice Raja Saeed Akram Khan. Addressing the oath ceremony, he said that his first and foremost priority is the “liberation of occupied Kashmir” and will continue to project the Kashmir issue internationally. (Syed Abbas Gardezi, “Barrister Sultan sworn in as AJK president,” The News International, 26 August 2021)

ON CPEC
Parliamentary panel says security termed crucial to CPEC stability
On 25 August, the Parliamentary Committee on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stated that the security of CPEC was crucial to achieving economic stability, maintaining that lack of security could affect businesses. This statement was made at the 37th committed meeting where a range of issues, including security measures set in place for the projects undertaken within the CPEC framework, the Main Line-1 (ML-1) project with special focus on the ET component and the progress on Special Economic Zones (SEZs). (“Security termed crucial to CPEC stability,” The Express Tribune, 26 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that gunning growth through public expenditure inevitably gives rise to external sector imbalances in Pakistan.

An editorial in Dawn states on the FBR having another chairman states that the reshuffles point to poor governance by the top decision-makers at the political level. It adds that in such a situation they cannot be expected to implement actions that would unleash strong opposition from within and without the organisation. Similarly, an editorial in The News International stated that rather than taking appropriate policy measures, the government seems to be conducting musical chair games for the top brass in its economic and financial management.

An editorial in Dawn states that the PPP’s stance that devolution of powers is not Karachi’s number one problem is rather problematic. It adds, an elected, empowered local government is what the Karachi need, not unelected bureaucrats and partymen. 

An editorial in Dawn critical of the issue of forced conversions states that it is time that the government and society did right by the harassed minority communities that call Pakistan home.

An opinion in The News International argues that dual nationality does not make anyone a lesser or inferior Pakistani than those with single nationality. It adds that Pakistani expatriates most certainly have unlimited love for the motherland and this must be treated as equal and no lesser Pakistani than others.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PPP welcomes PDM activities in Karachi, says Bilawal
On 24 August, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated that the PPP welcomes the decision of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) to begin its political activities in Karachi. Additionally, he stated that the party had informed the PDM leaders about the constitutional way of doing things, therefore, they have the right to organise rallies. This comes as the opposition alliance announced its anti-government public meetings and rallies around the country. (“PPP welcomes PDM in Karachi: Bilawal,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2021)

PML-N express discontent over NAB’s ‘fictitious’ case against Shehbaz
On 24 August, PML-N mocked the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for its “fictitious” cased against Shehbaz Sharif stating that such a case could not be opened without the direct involvement of the NAB chairman. Further, PML-N information secretary alleged that NAB chairman retired Justice Javed Iqbal in connivance with PM Imran Khan and his adviser sent notices to Shehbaz in the “concocted” case in the award of contract for beautification and horticulture work along the route of Rawalpindi-Islamabad Metro Bus Service. (Amir Wasim, “PML-N irked by ‘fictitious’ case against Shehbaz,” Dawn, 25 August 2021)

Clerics express serious reservations about overdraft of anti-forced conversion bill
On 25 August, Dawn reported that clerics and religious scholars who attended a meeting called by the Ministry of Religious Affairs to discuss the draft of the anti-forced conversion bill expressed serious reservations over the bill. Additionally, they warned the ministry that the draft cannot be implemented in its current shape. (Kalbe Ali, “Clerics express reservations over draft of anti-forced conversion bill,” Dawn, 25 August 2021)

PM Khan to make more changes to his economic team
On 25 August, the federal government once again made a change in its core economic team by giving an exit to Dr Waqar Masood Khan, an aide to the prime minister on finance, and removed Federal Board of Revenue Chairman Asim Ahmad. Meanwhile, Dr Mohammad Ashfaq Ahmad has been made the new FBR chairman making him the seventh by the PTI government in three years. (Shahbaz Rana, “PM makes more changes in his economic team,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2021)

Justice Isa defends suo motu action, says he is being targeted for no reason
On 24 August, Justice Qazi Faez Isa while defending exercising the suo motu jurisdiction on the application against harassment of media persons stated that he was being targeted for no reason other than doing his duty. Additionally, he stated that public perception cannot be gained by simply denying that a judge of the apex court “is not targeted or persecuted.” (Hasnaat Malik, “Justice Isa defends suo motu action,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2021)

Government plans to elect Shaukat Tarin as senator
On 25 August, The Express Tribune reported that the federal government has decided to get Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin elected as senator from Punjab for to him continue in his office. Tarin who had replaced Hammad Azhar less than a month after the latter was appointed as finance minister is required to be elected a member of parliament before 16 October. (“Govt mulls electing Shaukat Tarin as senator,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2021)

PM inaugurates Pakistan’s first smart forest
On 25 August, PM Imran Khan inaugurated Pakistan’s first smart forest in Rakh Jhok Forest, Sheikhupura. This project which is a part of the Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project, would address a host of issues, contribute an estimated USD 40 billion to the economy and create around one million jobs. The smart forest project will function via sensors and a surveillance system. At the inauguration, PM Khan said, “This will be an exemplary project,” adding, “It will change Pakistan and its environment.” (“PM Imran launches Pakistan's first smart forest in Sheikhupura,” Dawn, 25 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
‘Dostarym III,’ a Pak-Kazakh joint military exercise commences
On 25 August, the opening ceremony of ‘Dostarym III,’ a Pakistan-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise was held at National Counter-Terrorism Center in Pabbi. The ISPR said, “Special Forces of both countries will take part in hostage rescue, compound clearance, Heli rappelling and close-quarters battle drills and procedures.” The exercise is aimed at developing and bolstering coordination between the two armies in the counter-terrorism domain. Previously, the first joint exercise was held in 2017 in Pakistan and the second in 2019 in Kazakhstan. (“Pak-Kazakh joint military exercise 'Dostarym III' commences,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2021)

FM Qureshi arrives in Tajikistan as part of his four-nation tour
On 25 August, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi arrived in Tajikistan and is scheduled to hold meetings with his Tajik counterpart Sirojiddin Muhriddin and President Emomali Rahmon. During the meetings, matters of mutual interest, bilateral cooperation, the evolving situation in war-torn Afghanistan and future strategy will be discussed. This visit is part of Qureshi’s four-nation tour which includes, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Iran. (“FM Qureshi arrives in Tajikistan to discuss Afghanistan crisis,” The News International, 25 August 2021)

Terrorists attacking Chinese nationals not be spared, says NSA Yusuf
On 24 August, National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Moeed in a call with the State Councilor, Minister of the Public Security of the People’s Republic of China Zhao Kezhi stated that the perpetrators of terrorist attacks on Chinese nationals working in Pakistan would be brought to justice. Additionally, they agreed that the all-weather Pakistan China friendship could not be undermined by third countries that try to target their bilateral interests. (“Terrorists attacking Chinese nationals not to be spared: NSA,” The News International, 25 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Exports to Afghanistan via Torkham decline after Pakistani’s delay goods delivery
On 25 August, Dawn reported that most Pakistani exporters have delayed the supply of goods to Afghanistan via the Torkham border since the Taliban’s takeover of the country. Additionally, it reported that traders and custom clearing agents at the Torkham border crossing stated that Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan had reduced because of the uncertainty and fears caused by a delay in the formation of the new government in Kabul. (Ibrahim Shinwari, “Exports to Afghanistan via Torkham decline” Dawn, 25 August 2021)

An editorial in Dawn critical of the contaminated water issue states that the provision of clean water is part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and should be considered a part of the fundamental constitutional right to life. In the absence of clean drinking water, the right to life itself lies compromised.

An editorial in The Express Tribune stated that as Afghanistan undergoes transition, there is a pressing need to keep an eye on opportunist elements. This applies to nefarious characters inside Pakistan, too.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on the recent spike in reports of violence against women asks, is the rate of violence actually increasing, or is it that more women are willing to come forward? It states while neither can be conclusively proven, one is inclined to consider the latter more likely.

Similarly, an opinion in Dawn states that the government needs to take special notice of the current avalanche of violence against women. It adds, Pakistani men must not be permitted to nurse the delusion that they can establish system that misuses faith to banish women from public spaces and monitor their every move everywhere else so that they know that they are lesser humans.

An editorial in Dawn states that balancing the need for educating Pakistan’s children while ensuring their health and that of school staffers is indeed a tough call. It adds, with the help of technology and greater access, education can be brought to more children.

An opinion in Dawn in an opinion on the ‘Ironies of a war of revenge’ states that the war was already lost when the US sat across the table with the same insurgents it had sought to annihilate.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PM directs all provinces to implement Single National Curriculum
On 23 August, PM Imran Khan called on all provinces to implement the single national curriculum. He also directed the education ministry to engage with the provincial governments to decide on the curriculum for classes VI to VII. He said the education ministry should be reviewing and introducing changes to the SNC as required. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran asks provinces to introduce same syllabus in schools,” Dawn, 24 August 2021)

Editorial outlines crises within opposition 
An editorial in Dawn doubts the genuinity of PML-N’s offer to support the PPP in the Punjab Assembly, says that at face value, the move seems to be aimed at the revival of a joint opposition. It outlines that while both parties have shared grievances, they also face their own challenges; PPP is facing several cases against its members and the PML-N seems to be going through an “identity crisis” following Shehbaz Sharif’s release. Therefore, the editorial concludes that both parties are likely to go their own way as even in times when a joint opposition was necessary, they could not come together. (“Fractured opposition,” Dawn, 24 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Provincial government says it require more time to hold LG polls 
On 23 August, the Sindh government told the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) that it may be unable to hold local elections due to a pending case on the 2017 census, with which the provincial government has contentions. The Sindh Chief Secretary said the province would also like to introduce changes to the Sindh Local Government Act, and estimated that it would take six months for the same. The delay comes despite the expiry of the local governments’ tenure on 30 August 2020. The CEC opined that the provincial government had been delaying the polls on different reasons over the last few months and said that it “gives an impression that the Sindh government is not serious about conducting LG polls.” (“Sindh govt expresses inability to hold LG polls,” Dawn, 24 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Pakistan to receive USD 2.7 billion from IMF 
On 23 August, the IMF’s allocation under the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) came into effect and Pakistan is expected to receive USD 2.7 billion under it. This amount is part of the USD 650 billion disbursement. This comes in addition to the USD six billion to Pakistan under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) approved in December 2019. (Anwar Iqbal, “IMF’s historic funding takes effect, $2.7bn for Pakistan,” Dawn, 24 August 2021)

Pakistan improves performance on Business Confidence Index
On 24 August, Dawn reported on the Business Confidence Index (BCI) Survey which recorded an improvement in Pakistan's performance. Under the survey, conducted by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), Pakistan had a nine per cent score on the Business Confidence Score against minus 50 per cent in May 2020. The survey was conducted between May to July 2021 and the dramatic change has been attributed to "optimism of respondents" for the upcoming six months in the following areas: their city’s business situation; the industry-business situation; their own business situation; anticipated sales volume increase; profit increase; lastly, the return on investment increase.(Kazim Alam, "Survey finds ‘record improvement’ in business confidence in Pakistan," Dawn, 24 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Editorial outlines lack of space for women’s voices
An editorial in The News International, citing various cases of harassment of women in the past few days, asks what more women have to do to hold conversations on the issue and asks what the government has done for their protection. The editorial says that women have undergone hardships under patriarchy, and says that violence seems to be increasing. Citing some older women’s claims that the situation was not so bad in the 1950s or the 60s, it says the reason behind this could be lack of reporting. It also outlines the proliferation of incel groups online which incite hate towards women and therefore calls for a “holistic change” in the way boys are taught at home and in schools. (“Finding space,” The News International, 24 August 2021)

Shireen M Mazari in an opinion in The News International states that Pakistan has made its policy clear on Afghanistan. She adds, Pakistan will no longer accept being scapegoated for the failures of others. Enough is enough.

An opinion in The News International on the threat of Taliban for Pakistan cites two issues. First, the generation of a global (and local) assertion of the possibility of anti-republic, anti-modern, political takeover of countries as an expression of people’s Muslim identity. Second, the generation of a new and unprecedented counterterrorism challenge for Pakistan.

An editorial in The News International critical of the deadlock about the proposed electronic voting machines (EVMs) states that it is imperative that the government and the opposition talk about any valid concerns or reservations there may be regarding the EVM.

An editorial in Dawn critically stated that the uptick in attacks targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan must not be taken lightly by the government and the security apparatus. It adds, intelligence-based operations need to be carried out domestically to neutralise cells that are looking to harm Chinese nationals and interests in this country, stating that such efforts must be thwarted so that foreign nationals can work here in a secure and peaceful environment.

An editorial in Dawn on the crisis in football states that FIFA and the government will have to work together if the country’s long-standing football issues are to be resolved, adding, if not another generation of football fans in the country will grow up following leagues across Europe and never having the joy of supporting a local team or watching their own stars in action.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman says rapists punished publicly
On 22 August, religious scholars belonging to various schools in a joint declaration issued after a meeting held under the Pakistan Ulema Council said that condemned the rape of a girl in a seminary in Rawalpindi and demanded that perpetrators of such heinous crimes should be given punishment in public through speedy trial. Additionally, they lamented rising incidents of child abuse and women harassment in Pakistan and said the prime minister and chief justice of Pakistan should take immediate action against the culprits and order their speedy trials. (“Ulema want rapists punished publicly,” Dawn, 23 August 2021) Meanwhile, a 12-year-old girl in Rawalpindi was allegedly sexually assaulted and tortured by her madrassa administrator with the help of his female colleague. Additionally, the girl’s mother claims that the accused has been harassing, threatening her 12-year-old daughter for the last five months. (“Minor 'sexually assaulted, tortured' by Rawalpindi madrassa administrator,” The Express Tribune, 23 August 2021)

Will back no-trust move if PPP presents a workable idea, says PML-N secretary-general
On 22 August, PML-N secretary general Ahsan Iqbal stated, “We’re ready to support the PPP’s idea for dislodging the PTI government through a no-confidence motion but it should put forward a workable proposal for this purpose.” She went on to state that if PPP brought a successful no-trust motion against the Senate chairman, then the PML-N would follow suit by moving a no-confidence motion in the Punjab Assembly, where the PPP had only six seats. (“PML-N to back no-trust move if PPP presents workable idea,” Dawn, 23 August 2021)

ANP not against Afghan Taliban, says party general secretary
On 23 August, Dawn reported Awami National Party provincial general secretary Sardar Hussain Babak said, “Let me be clear that our party is not against the Taliban, but is only against the bloodshed, which has plagued the neighbouring country for decades. The terror unleashed on the people of Afghanistan during the past decades has been the work of Taliban.” Further, he criticised the Taliban for forcibly overtaking Afghanistan, warning that it might drag the country into civil war. (“ANP not against Afghan Taliban: Sardar Hussain Babak,” Dawn, 23 August 2021)

Number of Benazir Income Support Programme beneficiaries has increased to 8.2 million
On 23 August, Dawn reported that Ehsaas which completed a fresh poverty survey for 2021 showed the number of Benazir Income Support Programme beneficiaries has increased to 8.2 million. According to the survey, 3.4 million people have been added to the list of beneficiaries. On the survey, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation said, “We have completed the first-ever digital survey/data of Ehsaas Kafalat (BISP) after a two-year hectic countrywide exercise in which hundreds of trained volunteers accompanied by Ehsaas programme’s staff having laptops in their hands went door to door to accomplish the job.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “3.4m added to list of Ehsaas beneficiaries,” Dawn, 23 August 2021)

IHC directs the federal cabinet to take up the issue over TikTok ban
On 23 August, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the federal cabinet to take up the matter concerning the ban on video-sharing social media app TikTok. The court questioned why the authority was so adamant about banning the app if they could not beat technology and also asked why does the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) want to cut the country off from the world. (“IHC directs federal cabinet to take-up TikTok ban issue,” The Express Tribune, 23 August 2021)

SNC to cement nation, minimise discord, says Education Minister
On 22 August, Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Shafqat Mahmood stated that the Single National Curriculum (SNC) has been formulated with a special focus on the practical aspects of the life of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He added, “It pays extensive attention to the value of diversity in cultures and religions and the development of 21st century skills, including analytical, critical, and creative thinking,” adding, “Introduction of a uniform curriculum will help minimise disparity in our education system which consists of three incongruent styles of systems, namely, public, private and religious.” (“SNC to cement nation, minimise discord: Shafqat Mehmood,” The Express Tribune, 23 August 2021)

ENERGY
Pakistan likely to face gas load shedding because of expected shutdown of Engro LNG terminal
On 23 August, The News International reported that Pakistan is likely to face massive gas load shedding after 5-6 September because of expected shutdown of Engro LNG terminal if the government fails to retain the new Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU) Sequoia, having capacity to re-gasify 780mmcfd, by 30 August 2021. The report added that the failure of the government in retaining the new FSRU will also cause maximum gas load shedding in the winter season as it will not be able to use the additional capacity of 180mmcfd of FSRU Sequoia. (“If govt fails to retain new FSRU: Engro LNG terminal shutdown to cause massive gas crisis,” The News International, 23 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Chinese ambassador meets with Interior Minister
On 22 August, Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong met with Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid to discuss the issue of safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan, demanding a stronger security protocol for them. This meeting came after a suicide attack on a motorcade carrying Chinese nationals in Gwadar East-Bay Expressway claimed the lives of three Pakistani children and hurt one Chinese worker. Rashid said a joint strategy was being devised for the protection of Chinese companies and nationals in Pakistan saying, “we will improve security protocol of Chinese nationals at any cost.” (“Chinese ambassador takes up security issue with Rashid,” Dawn, 23 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Afghans need world support, says FM Qureshi
On 22 August, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi said, “At this critical juncture, it is vitally important to remain in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and to extend support to them, both in the humanitarian arena and for economic sustenance.” FM Qureshi made this statement while holding a telephonic conversation with Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the European Commission. (“Afghans need world support, says Qureshi,” The News International, 23 August 2021)

Taliban sets up commission to investigate Pakistan’s TTP concerns
On 22 August, The Express Tribune citing Voice of America (VOA) reported that the Taliban chief Haibatullah Akhundzada set up a three-member commission recently to investigate Islamabad’s complaints that the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was using Afghanistan to plot cross-border terrorist attacks. Previously, the Taliban spokesperson said, “This concern is legitimate, and our policy is clear that we will not allow anyone to use the soil of Afghanistan against any neighbouring country, including Pakistan. So, they should not have any concern.” (“Taliban commission to investigate Pakistan’s TTP concerns,” The Express Tribune, 23 August 2021)

Maleeha Lodhi in an opinion in Dawn states that there is no reason to sound triumphal, be spokespersons for the Taliban or to keep obsessing about the past. It is the future that should concern us and what is most consequential for the country. She adds, whether peace will return to Afghanistan after decades of war, strife and foreign interventions.

An editorial in Dawn critical of gender-based violence states that to be a victim of gender-based violence in this country is to be violated over and over again. It adds, Pakistani society has a problem; it needs to acknowledge it, arguing that the state should take the lead in changing a deeply misogynistic narrative.

An opinion in Dawn writes that child abuse and domestic violence in Pakistan have plagued society from the very beginning but such cases have largely been hidden from the public eyes. It adds, children must be provided a safe environment to grow instead of snatching away their precious childhoods in the name of superficial respect and honour.

An opinion in Dawn argues that Afghan media may be among the Taliban’s first victims.

An editorial in The Express Tribune argues that Pakistan is being penalised owing its geopolitical invincibility, and cornered on a politicised agenda. It adds that Pakistan being held in the grey list has much to do with how international lenders, as well as major powers, want it to fall in line for an agenda that is beyond the scope and limits of FATF.

According to the latest report by the State Bank of Pakistan, the foreign direct investment (FDI) into Pakistan has decreased by 39 percent in July month on a year-on-year basis. The net FDI stocks of Pakistan decreased from USD 41.9 billion to USD 35.6 billion. Due to piling up of foreign debt and share of short-term expensive borrowing, the risks have gone higher for investors to keep the pace of FDI positive.

FDI in Pakistan: An Overview 
FDI for any developing country is a complement to its growth rate, whereby a country opens up avenues for investors on profit-making ventures and government bonds. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, the top five FDI contributors in Pakistan, in descending order are Singapore, the USA, Hong Kong, UK, and China. Of the total foreign public securities during July 2021 worth USD 1.09 billion, USD 1.002 billion worth of investment was witnessed in debt securities during July 2021.  

The net FDI for July month 2021 was USD 89.9 million, out of the power sector received the largest share worth USD 41.9 million. The FDI propels growth in entrepreneurial sectors not in debt securities, power being a factor in inducing consumption and connects the populace through grid seems to be the only promising sector in Pakistan for now. 

FDI challenges today 
The primary challenge for the policymakers today in Pakistan is to sustain the FDI to GDP ratio, as that ratio has come down to 0.75 per cent of the GDP, lower than the previous years. Their hands are tied as the economic competency of Pakistan is not significant. The decline can be partly explained by decreasing net FDI inflows all over the world due to anti-globalist populist policies. 

It becomes interesting because the economy of the country is not properly merged with the international flow of trade and services. During the first wave of the covid pandemic, the mean GDP of south Asia contraction was around seven-ten per cent but Pakistan’s GDP contracted by a mere 1.5 per cent. Even though Covid induced innovation in South Asia and brought 20 percent more FDI, Pakistan did not get enough share of the pie. Therefore, the waves of economic recession/prosperity translate into the economic terrain of Pakistan in a delayed manner. The FDI similarly has been on a flip flop since 2010, it has not been able to maintain an upward slope in growth. 

Why is it then, the issue of FDI is part of discussions in Pakistan is partly due to the age of automation and the digital era is going to bring service-oriented economies, the more geared a domestic market is with innovation, capital will follow instead of manufacturing and industries, especially for a country like Pakistan. Another reason could be understood through the US decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, with that decision, investors have reduced confidence in bonds offered by the Pakistan federal government due to the overall perceived unstable financial environment in its western neighbour which might hamper the conduct of business with Central Asia.  

There are also a few structural challenges to the FDI in Pakistan, most important being the lack of infrastructure, trained human capital and, the market size. Other than this, the complicated and overprotective labour laws make the Pakistan economy a less productive opportunity for investors.  

In Brief
INTERNAL
Media regulators reject the creation of PMDA
On 21 August, Dawn reported that key stakeholders from the media and civil society have rejected the government’s proposal to create the Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) as draconian and unacceptable. In a joint statement, they said, “The proposed PMDA is designed to further tighten the grip of the government on all forms of media that include not just print and electronic but also internet and digital media, and even films and drama now. The government is attempting to formalise a regime of coercive censorship even when it has no right to police the freedom of expression of 200 million citizens of Pakistan as guaranteed in the Constitution.” (“Govt proposal on all-encompassing media regulator rejected,” Dawn, 21 August 2021)

Police take 24 men into custody for assaulting, harassing TikToker
On 20 August, Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari stated that the police have taken at least 24 men into custody for harassing and assaulting a TikToker at the Greater Iqbal Park in Lahore on 14 August. Mazari via Twitter said that the arrests were made after the suspects were identified through geo-fencing and National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), adding that more arrests are expected in connection with the “condemnable” incident. Meanwhile, the Punjab Police chief Inaam Ghani suspended the SHO, DSP over negligence he formed a three-member inquiry team into the incident pertaining to an assault on a female TikToker by an at least 400-strong mob near Minar-e-Pakistan. (“24 rounded up for assaulting, harassing TikToker: Mazari,” The Express Tribune, 21 August 2021)

Editorial calls on government to ensure inter-sect harmony
An editorial in Dawn, in light of the attack on the Ashura procession, observes that though the instances and scale of violence during Muharram have come down over the years, divisions and hatred are yet to be erased. It outlines that the attacker managed to carry out the act, despite tough security measures and says that it is therefore a reiteration that the “counterterrorism agencies cannot afford to let their guard down even for a moment.” It calls on the government to step up its efforts to ensure inter-sect harmony, reasoning that violence against Shias, specially Hazaras, stems from “deep-rooted intolerance and hatred.” It further suggests that groups spreading hatred should not be allowed to grow, and suggests that the government tracks and brings an end to sectarian hate speech. (“Inter-sect tolerance,” Dawn, 21 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Two children killed in suicide attack targeting Chinese nationals
On 20 August, two boys were killed in a suicide attack targeting Chinese nationals in Gwadar; four people, including two more children and a Chinese man were injured when the bomber blew himself up at a vehicle with the Chinese. Meanwhile, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed the attack; the Chinese nationals were engaged with the East-Bay Expressway construction. A statement from the Interior Ministry said that both the countries recognise the threats to their cooperation, but reaffirmed the commitment to deal with them. (Saleem Shahid and Behram Baloch, “Two boys killed, Chinese man injured in Gwadar suicide attack,” Dawn, 21 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Editorial calls for education and sensitization on women’s rights 
An editorial in The News International, in light of the Minar-e-Pakistan incident, says that along with Pakistan increasingly unsafe for women, “Pakistani society somehow ends up blaming the woman.” The editorial outlines that Pakistanis appear to not know and understand the concept of choice and consent, and opines instead of only punishment, boys and young men need to be educated and sensitized about women’s rights, sexual harassment and so on. It calls for the need for proper training of media personnel to interview survivors and lastly says that the government should ensure the safety of women. (“Question of consent,” The News International, 21 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
FO says Islamabad will ask Kabul for action against TTP
On 20 August, Foreign Office spokesperson stated that the country would ask the incoming government in Afghanistan to act against the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The spokesperson said, “Pakistan has been taking up the issue of use of Afghan soil by the TTP for terrorist activities inside Pakistan with the previous Afghan government and would continue raising the issue with the coming government in Kabul as well to ensure that the TTP is not provided any space in Afghanistan to operate against Pakistan,” adding, We have seen some media reports in this regard. We have [opposed] and continue to oppose support for any individual or any proscribed groups that remained involved in terrorist activities inside Pakistan.” (“Islamabad to ask Kabul for action against TTP,” Dawn, 21 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan expects Taliban will fulfil promises on women and human rights, says COAS
On 20 August, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa stated, “We expect that Taliban will fulfil promises [made to the] global community [regarding] women and human rights and Afghan territory won't be used against any other country.” Further, he reiterated that Pakistan would continue to play its role for peace and stability in Afghanistan, which he said was “direly needed” for the entire region but especially for Afghans themselves, adding that Pakistan wanted peace in the country and the region and this desire was shown by its “sincere efforts” to support an Afghan-led process to resolve the decades-long conflict in the neighbouring country. Meanwhile, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi assured the international community that Pakistan would extend assistance in the evacuation of the diplomatic staff from Afghanistan. (“Pakistan expects Taliban will fulfil promises on women and human rights: Army chief,” Dawn, 21 August 2021) (“Pakistan will help ‘evacuate diplomats’ from Afghanistan,” The Express Tribune, 21 August 2021)

Also read on Afghanistan
Imran Jan, “Operation Enduring Desperation,” The Express Tribune, 21 August 2021
Rustam Shah Mohmand, “What caused the implosion of Afghan army?,” The Express Tribune, 21 August 2021
Fahd Husain, “Game changer?,” Dawn, 21 August 2021
“Anti-Taliban protests,” Dawn, 21 August 2021
Aasim Sajjad Akhtar, “The new cold war? ,” Dawn, 21 August 2021
Amir Hussain, “The brave Afghan girls,” The News International, 21 August 2021

 An editorial in The Express Tribune states women have every right to be in public without being harassed, not because they are ‘someone’s sister’ or someone’s mother’, but because they are someone.

An opinion in Dawn states that Pakistan’s National Cybersecurity Policy has been approved by the cabinet, however, it is surprising that Pakistan did not have one up till now. It adds, enhanced capacity in government departments is necessary for implementing the policy.

An editorial in Dawn on the rate of inflation states that ineffective market governance, frequent disruption in supply chains, and profiteering by investors and hoarders are a few problems that the decision-makers need to address intelligently on an urgent basis to mitigate the impact of the surging food prices.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the lingering issue of processions attacked by terrorists states that the government and agencies must be vigilant in dismantling not just these sectarian terror groups but also monitor and shut down sectarian hate speech. On the same issue an editorial in The Nation states the freedom to practice one’s religion is guaranteed by the constitution and should be acceptable to all in society. It adds, preventing violence is not as easy as getting to the root cause, adding that work need to be on changing unaccepting mindsets simultaneously if improvement in the future is expected.

An editorial in The Daily Times on the energy sector being the Achilles heel of the economy states that unless this particular problem is sorted the country cannot achieve the kind of high growth that the economy needs to properly take off. 

In Focus

By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

The horrific incident of a woman being assaulted by a crowd of nearly 400 men during Independence Day celebrations near Minar-e-Pakistan proves that public spaces are not meant for women and that there is no space in the country where Pakistani women can be safe. In the words of the victim, “I was stripped. My clothes were torn,” stating that she said cried for help but no one turned up to rescue her. She said, “Is this the punishment for being one of Pakistan’s daughters? I did not go there in any lewd clothes nor have I ever filmed lewd TikTok videos. I was in a proper dress.” She added, “The crowd was huge and people were scaling the enclosure and coming towards us. People were pushing and pulling me to the extent that they tore my clothes. Several people tried to help me but the crowd was too huge and they kept throwing me in the air.” She said, during the struggle, her ring and earrings were “forcibly taken,” besides a mobile phone of one of her companions, his identity card and Rs15,000 that he had on his person.

This incident comes amid renewed focus on violence against women in Pakistan, following the murders of Noor Mukadam and Quratul Ain in July. In the same month, a video went viral on social media in which six men were seen harassing a couple in Islamabad. The men held the couple at gunpoint, forced them to strip and then beat them up. In June, an elderly woman was subjected to torture and sexual assault by influential people in Punjab’s Mazaffargarh to avenge her son’s love marriage. The perpetrator not only tortured the 50-year-old woman but also tore down her clothes, dragged her and burned her half-naked body with cigarette butts.

Cases of violence and abuse against women and girls have been on the rise in Pakistan. According to an opinion in The Express Tribune citing the Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO), there has been a significant rise in violence against women since the Covid-19 pandemic began. The report cited 1,422 cases of domestic violence and 9,401 cases of gender-based violence during the last six months of 2020. However, this is only one side of the story as many cases remain unreported.

While the authorities have taken the action in most of the cases, bringing these perpetrators to justice is just one part of the solution. But where does the problem stem from? An opinion in The Express Tribune rightly asks, “Is the answer embedded in societal learnings? Is it the narrative of ‘power’ and ‘control’ by men over women that is depicted in the media? Is it a lack of entertainment activities and ensuing frustration in our youth that is driving a part of them to such a heinous point? Or the lack of implementation of laws and failure of the justice system is to blame? Or is it simply a question of the lack of awareness of mental health problems that remain undiagnosed and ignored until they unleash themselves in such heinous and unforgivable crimes?”

Thus, the change required is manifold. While legislation and structural changes are one side of addressing the issue of violence against women, societies mindset requires a change. Until the realisation that respect for women is absolute that they exist in the public sphere by right, not on the tolerance of the men, ‘Mera Jism, Meri Marzi’ will continue to be a battle cry on deaf ears.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar 

On 16 August, a joint committee of media bodies rejected a government move to establish the Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA). The committee included the “All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND).”

Prior to this, on 13 August, federal Information Minister Fawad Hussain claimed that the PFUJ had supported the formation of the PMDA. He said he had spoken to different press clubs who had reportedly agreed to the government’s proposal to establish the PMDA. Further, he said, “We need to think over fake news, sectarian news and hate material. We are setting up PMDA. Digital media is our future.” However, several press clubs denied these claims, maintaining that the PMDA would pose a threat to freedom of press and expression. 

Meanwhile, on 17 August, the PPP and PML-N expressed their opposition to the PMDA. PPP’s Raza Rabbani said, “This is the blackest of black laws with a deliberate intent of crushing the media and all voices of dissent. This, along with the attack on academic freedom, students and intelligentsia, is a clear reflection that the present government seeks to impose a fascist rule in Pakistan.” Similarly, Sherry Rehman opined that the government’s move reflected a “dictatorial mindset.” Along the same lines, the PML-N Information Secretary said the move is “an act of terrorism against media, Constitution and press freedom by the Imran Khan government.”

What is the PMDA? 
The PMDA is proposed to be a regulatory body to address, as per the government, the “‘fractured’ regulatory environment and ‘fragmented’ media regulation by multiple bodies. The PMDA is expected to regulate broadcast, print and digital media. Further, the PMDA can register, monitor, and analyse digital platforms to ensure conformation to cyber laws, thereby making it mandatory for digital media platforms to obtain a license from the PMDA. A media council will be established under the PMDA which is empowered to summon persons against whom complaints regarding content and wages to media persons are registered. Similarly, a tribunal under the PMDA can sentence violators to “punishments of up to three years in jail and Rs25 million in fines.”

Media criticism against the PMDA 
Editorials and opinions have been critical of the proposed PMDA wherein some have termed the move on par with “media martial law.” An editorial in Dawn outlines that there has been an increased targeting of media persons, who are already facing financial and editorial challenges. The editorial opines that the government has become intolerant to criticism and is therefore, employing methods “to punish media organisations and individual journalists who have been critical of its policies.” Therefore, it says the PMDA is a mortal blow to the media. Recent incidents like taking Hamid Mir’s primetime programme off air and an attack on Asad Ali Toor have been seen as attempts to target journalists. 

Similarly, another editorial in The News International written earlier on the ordinance to establish the PMDA, says the government seems to want a “silent state.” It says that once established, the PMDA would act as an iron clutch grabbing the neck of any dissenter. Further, it opines that an erosion of freedom of expression indicates the “decline of all constitutional principles” and is equal to violation of democratic norms. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Federal cabinet to decide on recognizing Taliban government 
On 18 August, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated that the federal cabinet would decide on recognising the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Additionally, he said, “We are advocates of peace and we will not allow our land to be used against any other country. At the same time, we will not allow any other’s land to be used against us.” (“Cabinet to decide on recognising Taliban govt: Sheikh Rashid,” Dawn, 19 August 2021)

PPP asks Supreme Court to review the verdict on party-era law
On 18 August, the PPP asked the Supreme Court to review its verdict of declaring the Sacked Employees (Reinstatement) Ordinance Act (SERA) 2010 illegal and unconstitutional. PPP secretary general Nayyar Bokhari expressed concern over the court’s verdict stated that it would create financial problems for thousands of employees who were already suffering due to inflation and the Covid-19 pandemic. (“PPP asks SC to review verdict on party-era law,” Dawn, 19 August 2021)

ECP cannot decide the eligibility of candidates, says Supreme Court
On 19 August, the Supreme Court ruled that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has no power to consider the qualification or disqualification of an election candidate or an assembly member. The court said, “In our view, there is no power or jurisdiction inherent in the Commission itself in terms of Article 218(3) to consider the qualification/disqualification of a candidate/member, whether as an independent, standalone issue or as part of an election dispute.” It added, “In other words, the question of qualification/disqualification is thoroughly tested by a dedicated procedure before the day of the election. And of course, after the election, a losing candidate can always file a petition before the election tribunal and again bring the question into issue. There is a direct appeal to this Court against the decision of the election tribunal. When such a framework is available, it is difficult to see why any such jurisdiction should be impliedly read into s. 103AA and/or s. 9 so as to empower the Commission.” (“ECP cannot decide eligibility of candidates, rules SC,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021)

PM Imran talks to IG Punjab on TikToker assault case
On 18 August, PTI representative stated that PM Imran Khan spoke with Inspector General Punjab Police regarding the assault on a female TikToker by a mob at Minar-e-Pakistan, adding that it was a "gross violation of laws and social norms' and assured that the government 'won't spare a single person involved" in the assault. Meanwhile, Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari condemning the incident stated that the ministry is in touch with relevant Punjab authorities to ensure strict action against the perpetrators. She added, however, “we need to try and change such violent behavioural patterns in our people,” and urged for the “effective implementation” of laws in order to have “some deterrent effect” on people’s behaviours. She maintained that the main challenge is changing the ‘mindsets’ of the people to stop crimes against “all vulnerable members of our society.” (“PM Imran talks to IG Punjab, non-bailable clauses added to FIR in TikToker assault case,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
UK Supreme Court dismisses plea against PIA over unpaid commission
On 18 August, the UK Supreme Court dismisses an appeal filed by a local travel agent against the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (PIAC) over a new contract for sales of tickets to Pakistan in 2012. A five-judge bench ruled that the PIAC cutting Times Travel (UK) Ltd’s (TT) ticket allocation was not a reprehensible conduct, rejecting the claim of the travel agency over unpaid commission. (“UK top court dismisses plea against PIA over unpaid commission ,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021)

FM Qureshi speaks with Chinese counterpart on Afghanistan
On 19 August, The Express Tribune reported that FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi, in a telephone conversation with his Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is of critical importance for Pakistan and the region. Additionally, FM Qureshi highlighted that Pakistan and China, as part of Troika Plus, made valuable contributions to these efforts. (“Stable Afghanistan critical for regional peace, Qureshi tells Chinese FM,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Propaganda against Taliban proving false, says FM Qureshi
On 18 August, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi stated that the propaganda by Ashraf Ghani’s ousted government against the Taliban has proved false. He argued, “There was a fear that the Taliban would impose a ban on the education of girls, but it has not been happening. The Taliban announced a general amnesty and they are opening the schools and businesses. They also announced that they would not take revenge and all the measures taken by them so far were peaceful which is welcoming.” (“Propaganda against Taliban proving false, says Qureshi,” Dawn, 19 August 2021)

World must support Afghanistan economically, nation-building, says PM Khan 
On 18 August, a statement issued by the Prime Minister Office (PMO) during a telephone call from Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte underscored that safety and security as well as protection of the rights of all Afghans is critically important. Further, he emphasized that it is essential for the world community to stay engaged in order to support the people of Afghanistan, economically and to help rebuild. (“World must support Afghanistan economically, nation-building: PM,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021)

Also read on Afghanistan
F.S. Aijazuddin, “‘Yankee, go home’,” Dawn, 19 August 2021
Khurram Husain, “Taliban’s road ahead,” Dawn, 19 August 2021
Zahid Hussain, “Return of the Taliban,” Dawn, 19 August 2021
“Militancy concerns,” Dawn, 19 August 2021
Inam Ul Haque, “Taliban ascent to power and the Western media,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021
Dr Rana Jawad Asghar, “Fall of Kabul and Covid-19 pandemic,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021
Durdana Najam, “Runaway groom,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021
“New Taliban?,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2021
Amanat Ali Chaudhry, “The fall of Kabul and beyond,” The News International, 19 August 2021
Dr Murad Ali, “A new Saigon moment?,” The News International, 19 August 2021
Humayun Gauhar, “America defeated – yet again,” The News International, 19 August 2021 

An opinion in Dawn argues that Pakistan is deeply entwined in and bound by the rules of the global economic order due to its dependence on the IMF and the World Bank. It adds while these relationships remain, they will continue to require successive Pakistani governments, regardless of their ideology or affiliations to prioritise economic efficiency over social justice and the rights of citizens.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the TikToker assault case states that respect for women is not conditional, and they are in the public sphere by right, not on the sufferance of the men in this country.

An editorial in Dawn argues that the consistent decline in FDI flows into Pakistan in recent years should worry our economic managers. It states with the government piling up foreign debt and the share of short-term expensive borrowings growing rapidly, and exports slow to grow, it is time policymakers addressed the reasons pushing investors away.

An editorial in The Express Tribune states that since the SNC will encourage inculcation of morals, based on religious teachings, it will foster tolerance and help achieve national cohesion. It adds, the introduction of English in all schools will need the appointment of thousands of teachers thus opening up vast job opportunities. As for detractors, the government should take only constructive criticism.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Woman files complaint against hundreds for assaulting her on Independence Day
On 17 August, the Lahore police filed a case against 300 to 400 unidentified people after a female TikToker complained that she, along with her friends, were harassed by these people near Minar-e-Pakistan during Independence Day celebrations on 14 August. She said they were filming a video when a mob started attacking them. “However, the crowd was huge and people were scaling the enclosure and coming towards us. People were pushing and pulling me to the extent that they tore my clothes. Several people tried to help me but the crowd was too huge and they kept throwing me in the air.” (“Police register case against hundreds for assaulting woman in Lahore's Greater Iqbal Park on Aug 14,” Dawn, 17 August 2021)

Bilawal asks the government to take parliament on board before any decision regarding the Taliban
On 17 August, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari SAID, “We demand the government to take parliament on board [before making a formal decision],” adding, “It’s time to engage parliament over our foreign policy. We also expect that the number of resolutions that were passed by parliament should guide us to devise the strategy. So, we also demand the government that resolutions on our policy should be followed at this crucial hour.” Further, he reiterated that the developments in Afghanistan were directly linked with Pakistan’s “safety, security and stability. (“Bilawal asks govt to take parliament on board on Taliban takeover of Afghanistan,” Dawn, 18 August 2021)

Supreme Court affirms the role of ECP in conducting fair polls
On 16 August, while referring to a proposal by the President on holding open ballot Senate election, SC clarified that it is the duty of ECP to decide the conduct of elections as per Article 220, which mandates legislation power of government in legislating in matters of corruption and other crimes only. The verdict was on the debate of secrecy of voting in the Senate, however, the court added that the secrecy of voting of not final and permanent. ("ECP can take all steps for fair polls: SC," The Express Tribune, 18 August 2021)

PML-N, PPP vow to resist move to set up the PDMA 
On 17 August, the opposition parties vowed to resist the government determination to set up the Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) to regulate the country’s media, terming it an attempt to further gag the media and the voices of dissent. Both PML-N and PPP declared the proposed legislation in violation of the Constitution terming it as a ‘draconian law.’ Additionally, PPP Senator Raza Rabbani said, “It is in total violation of Articles 18, 19 and 19-A of the Constitution as the regulations sought to be enforced on the media are not reasonable,” adding, “this is the blackest of black laws with a deliberate intent of crushing the media and all voices of dissent. This, along with the attack on academic freedom, students and intelligentsia, is a clear reflection that the present government seeks to impose a fascist rule in Pakistan.” (“PML-N, PPP vow to resist move to regulate media,” Dawn, 18 August 2021)

Prime minister seeks confidence of opposition on electoral reforms
On 17 August, information minister Fawad Chaudhry informed the willingness of prime minister Imran Khan to engage with opposition leaders on bringing in further electoral reforms. The cabinet approved changes in the new laws for local bodies election in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) to be held within the next 120 days, under which the number of union councils would be increased in proportion to the population and a union council would be constituted in an area having the population of 20,000, he said. There is another reform for direct election of mayor of Islamabad. ("PM Imran invites opposition for talks on electoral reforms," Dawn, 18 August 2021)

ECONOMY
FDI  declines by 38.7 percent in July month 
In its latest data, The State Bank of Pakistan has informed the general public that USD 90 Million worth of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been received in fiscal year 22, last fiscal year during July was USD 128.7 million. There is a drastic drop in FDI from China as well, compared to July last year the FDI has dropped by 85 percent. (Shahid Iqbal, "Foreign direct investment plunges by 38.7pc in July," Dawn, 18 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Johnson, Merkel speak with PM Imran on the Afghan situation
On 17 August, PM Imran Khan received telephone calls from PM Boris Johnson and German Chancellor Angela Merkel and they exchanged views on the latest situation in Afghanistan. During the calls, PM Khan states that Pakistan was reaching out to all Afghan leaders, adding that the international community must also stay engaged, particularly to support the people of Afghanistan economically. (“Johnson, Merkel call PM Imran on Afghan issue,” Dawn, 18 August 2021)

Pakistan to consult world powers on Taliban
On 17 August, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry announced that the federal cabinet decided that Pakistan “will take decisions after consulting with the regional and international powers,” adding, “Pakistan is a responsible country in the international community; our decisions will neither be unilateral nor bilateral, they will be multilateral.” (“Govt to consult world powers on Taliban,” Dawn, 18 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Editorial asks US to hold itself accountable for its foreign interventions
An editorial in Dawn, critical of Biden blaming Ashraf Ghani for the collapse of Afghanistan, says that all American efforts “came to naught within a week of the Taliban’s lightning offensive.” The editorial refers to the Vietnam war, and opines that the Americans should feel a sense of deja vu as “their Afghan project collapsed like a house of cards” and also outlines the US role in other countries like Iraq, Libya, and Syria. It maintains that “nation-building cannot be imposed from above, like the US has repeatedly attempted to do” and says that Washington must now do some “soul searching” and that “The United States of America, for once, should hold itself to account.” (“Price of US follies,” Dawn, 18 August 2021)

An opinion in The News International states that the real test of the Taliban lies in tackling the issues at hand on an emergency basis rather than indulging in moral policing.

An editorial in The Express Tribune states that as the PTI marks the completion of its third year in charge of the country, the country still remains divided over what to make of its performance. It adds, how the government deals with Afghanistan is what will one day define its performance in the history books.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that recent cases of violence against women span across a range of age groups, social classes, and locations. The only commonality is that each of the assailants has either a proven history of violence or their degree of violence shows mental instability.

An opinion in The Express Tribune notes that Pakistan’s counterterrorism (CT) challenge may not diminish completely once the Taliban establish control in Afghanistan.

An opinion in Dawn argues that it is high time to make a course correction in the policing culture in Pakistan, and to adapt to the new role.

An opinion in Dawn argues that Taliban-II would need to break from the past in order to be accepted by the world.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Media bodies reject government’s attempt to establish Pakistan Media Development Authority
On 16 August, a joint committee of media organisations unanimously rejected the government’s attempt to establish the Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA). In a joint statement, the committee said that the recently circulated minutes of a meeting held between the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the media organisations are misleading and have been purposefully distorted to give an impression that there was no serious objection to the PMDA. (“Media bodies assail attempt to establish Pakistan Media Development Authority,” Dawn, 17 August 2021)

IHCBA expresses reservations against elevation of Justice Ayesha to SC
On 17 August, The Express Tribune reported that the Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCSBA) had opposed the nomination of Justice Ayesha Malik to be elevated to the Supreme Court. The IHCBA held that it would be unfair to elevate Justice Ayesha when there are three judges ahead of her in seniority. The IHCBA President and Secretary opined that the move would damage the image of the institution” and have “serious consequences.” (“IHCBA opposes LHC judge’s nomination to SC,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2021)

Senate committee passes Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2021
On 16 August, a Senate panel passed the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2021 which provides for death penalty. One Senator said, “It’s better to give offenders death sentence rather than keeping them in jails for rest of their life,” and another opined that it would also bring down the expenses on inmates. On the other hand, one Senator reasoned that it is not the severity but the certainty of a punishment that should prevent crime. However, the law minister claimed that only minimal offenders would be booked under this law. (“Senate panel passes Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2021)

PM launches Single National Curriculum; Sindh criticises SNC 
On 16 August, Imran Khan launched the first phase of the Single National Curriculum for classes one to five; he said the SNC would pave the way for a uniform syllabus and bring an end to a class-based education system. However, he acknowledged the difficulties in implementation and said that the elite classes are likely to oppose a uniform syllabus. Referring to the use of English, Khan said, “I thought that if we get a chance, we should bring a curriculum so that the thinking of our nation is the same. If the elite is taking advantage of a system, it will not allow it to change.” (“Single National Curriculum launched: Afghans broke shackles of mental enslavement, says PM,” The News International, 17 August 2021) Meanwhile, the Sindh education minister said that provinces should be able to frame their own curriculum. He said the federal government cannot impose its decision and held that Sindh is not obliged to fulfill PTI’s election manifesto. (“Sindh education minister opposes Single National Curriculum,” The News International, 17 August 2021) 

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinion links violence against women to mental health issues 
An opinion in The Express Tribune highlights the recent incidents of violence against women and says that a common factor among the perpetrators is the history of violence and mental instability in the latter; this includes drug abuse, anger management and the like. The author outlines the importance of mental health and says that it has always been stigmatised thereby preventing the perpetrator from seeking help. She says the problem is also fuelled by the society's acceptance of violent behaviour by men. Therefore, she calls for an ordinance on mental health and increased awareness on the fallouts of unaddressed mental health problems. (Fiza Farhan, “Violence against women: a crime, societal failure or mental illness?,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Saudi Chief of General Staff meets with COAS and PM 
On 16 August, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia General Fayyadh bin Hameed Al-Rowailly met with PM Imran Khan and COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa separately. During the meeting with PM Khan, both sides reaffirmed the close fraternal ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and highlighted Pakistan’s commitment and support for sovereignty. Meanwhile, the geo-strategic environment, the security situation in Afghanistan and matters of mutual interest, including bilateral defence cooperation and Training Exchange Programme were discussed between the two generals. (“Saudi Chief of General Staff calls on PM, COAS separately,” The News International, 17 August 2021)

ON INDIA
Pakistan criticised India for denying opportunity to address UNSC meet on Afghanistan
On 16 August, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi criticised India for its alleged “partisan and obstructionist actions” after Pakistan was denied the opportunity to address a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Afghanistan. He said, “At this critical juncture in the destiny of Afghanistan, India's partisan & obstructionist actions, repeatedly politicising this multilateral platform [whose] raison dêtre is peace, speaks volumes of their intention for [Afghanistan] & the region.” Similarly, Ambassador Munir Akram said, “India's partisan and obstructionist actions a manifestation of its hatred for Pakistan and its pique that its plan to continue the conflict in Afghanistan and thus continue to sponsor terrorism against Pakistan from Afghanistan's territory is likely to be neutralised once peace is restored throughout Afghanistan.” (“Akram slams India for blocking Pakistan from UNSC meeting,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2021) (“Qureshi slams India after Pakistan again denied opportunity to address UNSC meet on Afghanistan,” Dawn, 17 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan asks Afghan parties to reach a settlement
On 16 August, the National Security Committee (NSC) urged all stakeholders in Afghanistan to reach a political settlement, “respect the rule of law, protect fundamental human rights of all Afghans, and ensure that Afghan soil is not used by any terrorist organisation/group against any country.” Additionally, the NSC meeting reiterated that Pakistan would “continue to work with the international community and all Afghan stakeholders to facilitate an inclusive political settlement” for the representation of all Afghan ethnic groups. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Islamabad urges Afghan parties to reach settlement,” Dawn, 17 August 2021)

JUI-F and other religious parties hail the Taliban’s reconciliation policy
On 16 August, religious parties hailed the ‘victory’ of the Taliban and appreciated its leadership’s policy of ‘reconciliation and modesty.’ JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman in a letter to the leadership of the Afghan Taliban said that his party had called the attack of the US and Nato forces on Afghanistan an invasion from day one and declared the Afghan Taliban’s resistance legitimate. He said, “The JUI-F appreciates restoration of normalcy, peace, and policy of reconciliation, which the Afghan Taliban’s leadership has initiated after securing victory,” adding that ‘Mujahidin’ had liberated their country from foreign invaders and their agents through sacrifices. He added, “I congratulate Taliban leader Maulvi Hibatullah over this historic victory.” (“Religious parties hail Afghan Taliban’s reconciliation policy,” Dawn, 17 August 2021)

Also read on Afghanistan
“Taliban’s challenge,” Dawn, 17 August 2021
“The fall of Kabul,” The News International, 17 August 2021
“Taliban should walk the talk,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2021
“Afghanistan – real chaos begins,” The Daily Times, 17 August 2021
“Taliban Takeover,” The Nation, 17 August 2021
Arifa Noor, “Wars lost and won,” Dawn, 17 August 2021
“Pakistan’s true role in Afghanistan,” The News International, 17 August 2021
Jawed Naqvi, “CIA’s turn to admit to its fiasco,” Dawn, 17 August 2021

An editorial in Dawn states that farm subsidies are vital to help reduce the input costs but these are not enough. It argues, the better way of improving crop yields and farm incomes is to address the long-standing issues afflicting the agriculture sector. 

An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the Baldia incident states that Karachi has a serious governance problem too, and its civic infrastructure is in a mess, adding that incidents like this inadvertently bring to the fore the reality that Karachi is a ticking population bomb, and there is an existential need for a fool-proof security module.

An editorial in The Daily Times argues that the greatest danger comes from the country’s unstable exchange rate. It states, the insensitivity of SBP is adding to the uncertainty about prices in the near future.
An editorial in The Nation critical of the LNG shortage states that the trickle-down effect of this on the industries may just be too severe. In the end, it is the masses that will suffer the most.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee on 16 August (today) to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. According to Dawn, the meeting is to be chaired by the prime minister and attended by the civil and military leadership and high-ranking officials, to discuss the rapidly changing situation in Afghanistan and possible challenges for Pakistan. 

Meanwhile, the Foreign Office said that Pakistan was “closely following the unfolding situation” in Afghanistan and would continue to support efforts for a political settlement, saying, “We hope all Afghan sides will work together to resolve this internal crisis.” Additionally, FO said that the Pakistan embassy in Kabul was extending required assistance to Pakistanis, Afghan nationals and the diplomatic and international community for consular work and coordination of PIA flights.

In a statement, National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf states that the Afghan leadership lacked sincere intention to contain the use of its soil against Pakistan that damaged peace and security of the region, adding that there were “serious questions about the intentions of the other side [the so-called political leadership in Afghanistan] that needed to be looked into for a clear review.” Further, he reiterated that Pakistan only stood for peace and that was why the country fenced its entire border with Afghanistan, adding, “we can give only one message: Pakistan cannot be a guarantor for peace, we can only facilitate. We will facilitate whatever we can.”

Conversely, the two major opposition parties, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have once again asked the government to brief parliament on the current situation in Afghanistan and have called for a policy statement and develop a national consensus to deal with the possible consequences the nation can face after the establishment of Taliban rule in Afghanistan.

Pakistan will recognise the Taliban in line with ‘national interests’
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi stated, “When the time comes, Pakistan will recognise the Taliban government in line with international consensus, ground realities, as well as Pakistan’s national interests,” adding that Pakistan has ‘no favourites’ in Afghanistan and the country is on the same page with the international community when it comes to finding a political solution to the Afghan crisis.

Previously, PM Khan stated that the Taliban are not some military outfits but normal civilians, he said, “Now, there are camps of 500,000 people; there are camps of 100,000 people. And Taliban are not some military outfits, they are normal civilians. And if there are some civilians in these camps, how is Pakistan supposed to hunt these people down? How can you call them sanctuaries?”

However, the Pakistani leadership both civil and military are yet to come up with a strategy on Afghanistan. 

Pakistan’s concerns 
From the Pakistani perspective, the threat of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is the most immediate cause of concern. They are in the areas controlled by the Afghan Taliban. According to Dawn, a senior security official recently described the relationship between the two outfits as “two faces of the same coin,” thus what the Taliban decided to do with the TTP next would be one factor that would define their future relationship with Pakistan. Additionally, the refugee influx and security related issues are concerns for Pakistan. Meanwhile, an editorial in Dawn argues that Pakistan has also failed to convince Kabul that it is a neutral actor, considering its past links with the Afghan Taliban. All these factors have aided the disorder that is currently unfolding in Afghanistan.

Pakistan on the Taliban’s takeover
An editorial in Dawn argues that much of the present chaos is the result of the abrupt American withdrawal from Afghanistan, and Kabul’s inability to protect the country. Similarly, an opinion in The News International states, “As the Taliban expand their ruling territory, a civil war yet again awaits the Afghan soil. People in Afghanistan who believe in democracy, civil liberty and human rights cannot live under the Taliban. And the Taliban will not let them in any case, wanting to apply their ultraconservative interpretation of religion to their subjects. The Taliban will likely end women’s education. Artists, activists and journalists are already being persecuted. Their expansion is a threat to the progress the Afghans have made over the last 20 years. This is why the departure of Afghans from Afghanistan is not only a measure for leading better lives but also for saving their lives.”

In Brief
INTERNAL
Maleeha Lodhi outlines Pakistan’s achievements and gaps over 74 years of independence
An opinion in Dawn, written by Maleeha Lodhi, analyses the progress of Pakistan over the 74 years of independence. Lodhi opines that “the glass is both half full and half empty” and lists out five areas where the glass is half-full. First, the national consensus on the need to continue democracy; second, active media, diverse civil society, and citizen activism; third, fast-paced urbanisation and assertive middle class; fourth, the increasing involvement of women in different areas; and fifth, a largely young population with potential to boost development. Next, Lodhi opines that a weak economy is the primary reason for the glass being half-empty, which is fuelled by regressive taxes, reliance on foreign loans, lack of innovation and so on. She says the second reason is the lack of education, and third, “dysfunctional politics” including “relentless political confrontation, shallow political discourse, lack of consensus on core national goals.” (Maleeha Lodhi, “Glass half full, half empty,” Dawn, 16 August 2021)

Editorial calls for examination of structure of sports in Pakistan 
An editorial in The News International opines that the attention to Pakistan’s sports which was sparked after the country’s performance in the Tokyo Olympics 2020, should have been shown earlier. While acknowledging that the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) who was recently asked to step down has held the position for too long, the editorial says the real responsibility lies with the Pakistan Sports Board. It opines that the differences between the two organisations has not helped the country’s sports and calls for a thorough examination of the structure of sports in Pakistan. It concludes saying that Pakistanis “need a well-built sporting structure” that will ensure that they will be “standing on the podium and not off it.” (“Off the podium,” The News International, 16 August 2021)

Government declares intention to set up media regulatory authority 
On 15 August, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry reiterated the government's intention to set up “Pakistan Media Development History.” The body will regulate mainstream media as well as digital social media in Pakistan. He said increased number of people were shifting towards digital media and soon the country’s media landscape would change. The minister said a recent report of the ministry’s digital media wing had highlighted a hybrid war being faced by Pakistan. He emphasized the opportunity to augment government revenue from digital advertising. ("Govt to set up media regulatory authority, says minister.," Dawn, 16 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Irrigation department expresses reservations on share of Indus water calculated for the province 
On 10 August, the Sindh irrigation department again wrote to Indus River System Authority (IRSA) about fresh dip that will affect water availability in command areas of right bank canals of Sukkur barrage and Balochistan’s share in water from the barrage; this was the major reason which prompted the irrigation department to knock at IRSA’s door. The director of irrigation department in the letter contended that Sindh has contentions regarding the calculations "as the authority applies equal share in losses to both upper and lower riparian [provinces]." (Sindh worried over fresh dip in flows, asks Irsa to restrict water release for CJ, TP link canals," Dawn, 16 August, 2021) 

ECONOMY
Roshan Digital Account cross USD two billion inflows
On 15 August, Roshan Digital Account (RDA) deposits crossed USD 2 Billion mark in its eleven months of existence. Roshan Digital Accounts, which were introduced to foreign repatriates are considered brainchild of Imran Khan, the scheme promises to provided dividend up to seven percent and reward of further subsidies. Since its introduction, more banks have joined the scheme. The government considers RDA as reflection of overseas Pakistani’s confidence in the economy. (Khaleeq Kiani, Roshan Digital Account inflows reach $2bn in 11 months, Dawn, 16 August 2021) 

EXTERNAL
Turkish-made Corvette set to commission in Pakistan Navy 
On 15 August, President Arif Alvi said that bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkey should influence regional peace and said that the two countries faced common challenges and threats. He was speaking at the inauguration of the PNS Babur, the first MILGEM ship built by Turkey and said that Pakistan is a major market for Turkey’s defense products. The contract for four Milgem class corvettes for Pakistan Navy was signed in 2018. Under the contract, two ships are to be constructed at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard and the other two at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works. (Warship for Pakistan Navy launched in Istanbul, Dawn, 16 August 2021)  (“Pak-Turkey ties a force for regional peace, stability: Alvi,” The News International, 16 August 2021)

Pakistan, China record USD 12.56 billion worth of trade
On 16 August, The Daily Times referred to the General Administration of Customs PR China which said that trade between China and Pakistan was recorded at USD 12.56 billion in the first six months of 2021. Exports from Pakistan, during the period, stood at USD 1.735 billion and was reportedly a 70.3 per cent increase. Meanwhile, the rapid growth has posed challenges regarding shipping and timeliness of supplies. (“Pak-China trade volume increases,” The Daily Times, 16 August 2021)

Torkham border reopens after brief closure
On 15 August, the  Torkham border along Afghanistan was reopened after it was closed earlier when the Taliban took control. The border was reopened after negotiating with the Taliban; trade consignments were allowed to pass through later. The closure took place without any formal orders and therefore, an Assistant Commissioner said that after reopening, the border would remain functional. Afghans and Pakistanis stranded on either side were allowed to cross. (Ibrahim Shinwari, “Torkham border reopens for trade after brief closure,” Dawn, 16 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that naturally recycled water, is the way to go. It adds, the PTI would do well to steer clear of lobbyists posing as scientists if its greening campaign and climate control efforts are to bear fruit.

An editorial in Dawn on the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that with the world having failed to collectively act upon the warnings issued time and again, an apocalyptic scenario is at hand. Similarly, an editorial in The Express Tribune states that Pakistan being a front-runner in the fight against climate change, must spearhead the cause by diplomatically gaining the support of other nations. Furthermore, the UN must also restructure their treaties in accordance with updated scientific information and formulate sterner policies along with deadlines.

An opinion inDawn on the Anti-State Trends report by the digital media wing of the Ministry of Information states that there many experts and tools the ministry can consult and use to show a more comprehensive account of how social media is manipulated. Without a thorough, evidence-led approach, the result will be a report based on preconceived notions.

An editorial in Dawn states that both the government and opposition have undermined parliament’s prestige. It asks, how can our politicians expect the public and establishment to respect their mandate, if they don’t show any respect for it themselves?

An opinion in The Express Tribune critical of the country’s failure to bring home any medals from the Olympics states that the failing isn’t of the Pakistan Olympic Association only, but it is of the whole sporting nation.

In Focus
By Ankit Singh

On 13 August, the State Bank of Pakistan governor, Dr. Reza Baqir, assured that the Current Account Deficit (CAD) is more stable, back to within two to three per cent of GDP. He added that because of this contraction forex reserves of the country would climb up to USD 19.5 billion. This is an improvement from October 2016, when forex reserves were about USD 18 billion. Even though the real interest rate continues to be negative at one per cent, the chief observed that country will move towards higher growth due to the favorable environment. The stabilization in economy however was based on evaluation from all short-term indicators, which would positively cement the growth phase.  

The favorable environment can be understood more in terms of recent developments, the foreign remittances have increased multifold lately due to panic to human security and health induced by the Covid pandemic. During the fiscal year, 2020-21, foreign remittances have shot up to USD 29.4 billion and are have exceeded more than USD two billion for thirteen months straight. 

The currency has been depreciating since January 2021 to making the imports expensive and other significant development has been rising demand of cement and steel in the country, this hints to sort of a housing boom in Pakistan. The oil and gas prices have seen price increase, which has translated into inflation. The impulse of opening of economic activity after lockdown has pushed the consumption and demand in short term. As a result, the CAD and Fiscal deficit seems to heading towards a stable phase. 

Another latest development has been the decision by International Monetary Fund, whereby it induced another USD 457 billion into general allocation of Special Drawing Rights (SDR) for all member countries. This has also brought respite and more space to Pakistan’s SDR as well. The money may come in better and more frequent tranches. Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and increased digitization of services has also favored stable fiscal health with more accountability and hence the general perception and happiness expressed by Chief technocrat of State Bank of Pakistan.  

One needs to keep abreast the policy agenda of latest Extended Fund Facility (EFF) provided to Pakistan by IMF, the IMF has maintained that medium term capability of Pakistan is to be improved to sustain its short and mid term debt servicing. It will be interesting to see how finance ministry and SBP treads the push by the bull in international finance and dollar stability.  

In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan celebrates 75th Independence Day 
On 14 August, Pakistan celebrated its 75th year of Independence with commemorative ceremonies held in cities across the country. President Dr Arif Alvi on the occasion said, “today we realise the difficulties that were faced in the course of [Pakistan's] freedom,” and paid tribute to the leaders of the freedom movement, adding, “It is due to their sacrifices that we are here today.” (“Pakistan celebrates 75th Independence Day with patriotic zeal and fervour,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

PM inaugurates Alien Registration Card, mobile vaccination pass, other projects
On 13 August, PM Imran Khan inaugurated the Alien Registration Card, Pak Covid-19 Mobile Vaccination Pass, national certification and renewal campaign and other projects, including setting up of 66 Nadra registration centres across the country and introducing 90 mobile registration vans. He said that technology would be synced with data to end fake voters’ registration, adding that, “the results based on the free and transparent exercise would be acceptable to all.” (“In a first, technology & data being synced to curb poll fraud: PM Imran at Alien Registration Card inauguration,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

SHC withdraws suspension of licences by Pemra
On 13 August, the Sindh High Court (SHC) ruled that the power to suspend broadcast media licences (BMLs) contained in Section 30 of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) Ordinance 2002 could not be delegated to the authority’s chairman or any official without framing rules. Thus, the court revoked all actions taken by the authority’s chairman for suspension of the licences in April 2020. (“SHC revokes suspension of licences by Pemra,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

APG improves Pakistan’s FATF rating
On 14 August, Dawn reported that the Asia Pacific Group (APG) on Money Laundering has improved Pakistan’s rating on four more of the 40 technical recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). It said, “Pakistan has 35 recommendations rated compliant or largely compliant (C/LC). Pakistan will remain on enhanced follow-up, and will continue to report back to APG on progress to strengthen its implementation of AML/CFT measures.” Overall, Pakistan is now fully ‘compliant’ with eight recommendations and ‘largely compliant’ with 27 others. (“Pakistan’s FATF panel ranking gets better,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

SAPM, Minister ask Pakistan Olympic chief to resign
On 13 August, SAPM Shahbaz Gill called on the Pakistan Olympic Asso­ciation (POA) president Lt Gen Arif Hasan to step down from his post. Hasan has been the POA president since 2004 and the SAPM’s call for his resignation came after Pakistan failed to secure any medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Gill said, “We cannot tolerate further embarrassment in sports.” Further, the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination accused the POA president of making himself untouchable by law. The Minister said, “After becoming POA chief, Arif changed its constitution, removing the prime minister as its patron and hence there was never any accountability during his term. He also added hand-picked members as independent voters so he can cling on to his post.” (Mohammad Yaqoob, Umaid Wasim and Kashif Abbasi, “Pakistan's Olympic panel chief asked to step down,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

Editorial criticises Digital Media Wing’s report
An editorial in The News International, written in light of the recent  Digital Media Wing’s “Anti-State Trends: Deep Analytics Report,” says that the assumptions and poor analytical tools used in the report are disturbing. Some methods used in the report include hashtag analysis, which experts believe is an unreliable approach. The editorial opines that the report has sent out an irresponsible message and calls on the government to revamp “its approach to data analysis and reports regarding social media,” It says, “The state has already adopted a nanny approach towards citizens’ use of the internet; it must not alienate the people even further…” (“DMW report,” The News International, 14 August 2021)

Pakistan Bar Council raises reservations against elevation of Justice Ayesha
On 13 August, the Pakistan Bar Council Vice Chairman (PBC) expressed his reservations against the Judicial Commission of Pakistan’s (JCP) possible decision to elevate Lahore High Court’s Justice Ayesha A Malik to the Supreme Court; previously on 12 August, the Chief Justice of Pakistan had nominated Justice Ayesha for her elevation. The PBC Vice Chairman said, “This very fact is predominantly against the principle of seniority as laid down in the judges’ case,” and opined that the move would demoralise other judges in the HCs. (“PBC expresses concerns over elevation of Justice Ayesha,” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Punjab: SC orders operation against bandits near Bhong
On 13 August, the Supreme Court ordered the Punjab police chief to take action along with the assistance of the provincial government against bandits in the kutcha area in Rahim Yar Khan bordering the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan. This order came as a two-judge SC bench comprising Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel was hearing a suo motu case against the incident of vandalism of the Ganesh Mandir in Bhong village of Rahim Yar Khan. (“Court orders operation against bandits near Bhong,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

Balochistan:  Soldier, three militants killed in Loralai
On 14 August, the ISPR said that a paramilitary soldier had been killed and two injured in an exchange of fire following an attack on a Frontier Corps vehicle near Loralai. The ISPR said three militants had been killed in the retaliatory fire. (“FC solider martyred, two injured in Loralai attack,” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pak-Afghan border crossing at Chaman reopens after talks with Taliban
On 13 August, the Pak-Afghan border crossing at Chaman was reopened after negotiation with the Taliban who had closed the crossing last week. The reopening comes after a meeting between Pakistani and Taliban officials who are running affairs of the Afghan border district of Spin-Boldak which they captured last month. Additionally, a senior official of the Chaman administration stated that not only Afghan transit trade trucks and other vehicles were allowed to cross into Wesh and Chaman, but a large number of Afghan nationals waiting at the border for over a week had also been allowed to cross into Pakistan. (“Chaman border reopens after talks with Taliban,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

FO calls on the US to build broad-based relations with Pakistan
On 13 August, the Foreign Office spokesman said that Pakistan considers the US a friend, adding, “We believe that both countries have a history of close cooperative relations, which have served our shared interests.” The spokesman maintained that Pakistan had played an important role in the US-Taliban talks and reiterated that Pakistan does not want to be viewed through the lens of another country; he said, “We want to build long-term, broad-based, comprehensive and mutually beneficial partnerships rather than having transactional relations.” (Iftikhar A Khan, “Pakistan considers US a friend, says FO,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

No hostile forces will be allowed to undermine the iron-clad friendship between Pakistan and China, says PM
On 13 August, PM Imran Khan meets Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong in Islamabad. During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), coronavirus vaccines as well as mutual cooperation in other sectors. Terming Pakistan and China “iron brothers,” PM Khan emphasised, “no hostile forces would be allowed to undermine the iron-clad friendship” between the two countries. (“No hostile forces will be allowed to undermine iron-clad friendship between Pakistan and China: PM Imran,” Dawn, 14 August 2021)

An opinion in The News International argues that like all global and regional powers, Pakistan has a part in the damage, but with or without the presence of Pakistan as Afghanistan’s neighbour, Afghanistan would still be in turmoil due to its unique strategic position.

An opinion in Dawn argues that as the Taliban advances the time for musings is over, arguing that Pakistan needs decisions that they can stand firm on.

An opinion in The News International on tacking urban flooding states that it is not really possible to control or totally eliminate floods, and policy planners and practitioners should concentrate instead on enhancing the resilience of the population to flood risks through a combination of engineering techniques coupled with social, economic and administrative measures.

An editorial in Dawn on the controversy over the elevation of judges to the Supreme Court states that the process of selection must be transparent and clearly defined and uniform standards closely adhered to so that there is no room for confusion or controversy.

An editorial in The Express Tribune states that while planning to build new dams the authorities must look into the aspects of displacement of people, harm natural habitats of animals and birds as well as adversely impact the environment.

"It would be a shame that this becomes a barrier only when a woman, for the first time, is being elevated to the Supreme Court...Justice Ayesha Malik’s nomination not only gives hope to many women in the male-dominated legal profession, but to all women in the country who the legal system often fails to protect." -An editorial in The Nation on 'More Representation'

On 12 August, Justice Athar Minallah, Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court states that the judiciary has failed to come up to the nation’s expectations and one cannot claim with confidence that the institution is independent. He said, “As the judicial branch of the state, we need to ask ourselves on this auspicious occasion whether the state has fulfilled its constitutional duty of ensuring inexpensive and expeditious justice to its citizens; whether the actual stakeholders — the people of Pakistan — have trust and confidence in the fairness, impartiality, accountability, responsiveness and independence of the judicial system.” He also said, “An independent, impartial and effective judiciary is an essential prerequisite for maintaining the rule of law, protecting the fundamental rights of wea­ker segments of society and a bulwark against repression, poverty, decadence and economic and social inequality,” adding, “Lack of confidence of the people in the judicial system and erosion of the rule of law create an opportunity for repressive and tyrannical forces.”

This statement comes amid the recent controversy over the process of elevation of judges to the Supreme Court. While Pakistan for the first time in its judicial history is going to elevate a woman judge to the Supreme Court, the process of elevations still remains controversial. 

The case of Justice Mohammad Ali Mazhar
On 28 July, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) by a majority of five to four, approved the elevation of Justice Mohammad Ali Mazhar, who is fifth on the seniority list of Sindh High Court (SHC) to the Supreme Court. Soon after the decision, the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) Vice Chairman disapproved to moves saying, “We totally reject JCP’s decision – a decision which has completely disappointed the legal fraternity and considered the majority decision a violation of the Constitution and the seniority principle as laid down by different apex court judgements.” Meanwhile, the Sindh Bar Council (SBC), the Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA) Karachi as well as the Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA) resolved to observe a black day on July 28 to oppose the decision of elevating a junior judge from the provincial high court.

The case of Justice Ahmed Ali Shaikh
On 10 August, SHC Chief Justice Ahmed Ali Sheikh once again refused to become an ad-hoc judge of the Supreme Court. This came after the JCP nominated SHC chief justice for the position for one with a vote of five to four. Previously, sources revealed to The Express Tribune that at the JCP meeting on August 10, Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed, Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Umar Ata Bandial and Minister for Law Dr Farogh Naseem voted for nominating the SHC chief justice to the SC without his consent. Opponents of the decision stated that a high court chief justice cannot be elevated as an ad hoc judge of the apex court.

The case of Justice Isa
On 26 April, the Supreme Court accepted all review petitions challenging the court's judgement in the presidential reference against Justice Qazi Faez Isa except for the one filed by him. With a majority of six to four, the court has allowed the review petitions filed against its 19 June 2020 order for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to conduct an inquiry into the foreign properties of Justice Isa’s family. The court declared that legal actions taken by the FBR and all other forums related to the assets of Justice Isa's wife and children as “illegal.”

The debate
An opinion in Dawn argues that there are several fundamental rights violated when a senior judge is bypassed in favour of a junior judge. It adds, bypassing a senior judge in favour of a junior one is tantamount to displaying a vote of no-confidence in their competence or character or both. The opinion argues that if the induction of a Supreme Court judge is a fresh appointment, then in the absence of any rules, the principles of seniority as laid down in a number of supreme court judgments should have been followed. 

Similarly, an opinion in Dawn argues that the JCP’s refusal to follow precedent, principles and norms is creating an unnecessary constitutional crisis. It states this is adding to damage sustained by the Supreme Court to its prestige in the course of the government’s ill-intentioned reference against Justice Qazi Faez Isa. The editorial warns that it is time for the superior judiciary to work towards transparent and objective criteria for elevation to its ranks, adding that it must negate even the slightest impression that anything but integrity underlies its judgements and actions.

Meanwhile, an opinion in The Express Tribune critical of the situation states that the current government has been a silent spectator in all this, as usual, solely relying on the wisdom and experience of their law minister. It adds, no discussions have taken place to improve the legal system or to rid it of corruption, rather, appointments are being done in most institutions to accommodate those who are in their favour.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PEMRA decision to suspend TV channels illegal, says SHC
On 13 August, the Sindh High Court observed that the suspension of licenses of TV channels by the PEMRA chairman was illegal. The Court maintained that “the powers of PEMRA under section 30 PEMRA could not be delegated to Chairman or any other official of PEMRA…” In March, the  Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) complained that the PEMRA had barred TV channels from airing “analysis and comments regarding NAB activities” in their programmes. (Hasnaat Malik, “SHC declares PEMRA's power to suspend TV channels 'illegal',” The Express Tribune, 13 August 2021)

Pakistan conducts training launch of Ghaznavi 
On 12 August, the ISPR Director General said that Pakistan  had conducted the training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi to ensure operational readiness of the Army Strategic Forces Command. The training launch also revalidated the technical parameters of the missile. (“Training launch of ballistic missile Ghaznavi conducted,” The News International, 13 August 2021)

Woman judge to be elevated to SC in September
On 13 August, Dawn reported that the Judicial Commis­sion of Pakistan (JCP) will elevate Justice Ayesha A Malik to the Supreme Court, when it convenes on 9 September; this would be the first time a woman would be elevated to the SC. Justice Malik is expected to fill a vacancy after Justice Mushir Alam retires. Justice Malik is the fourth in seniority in the Lahore High Court; a senior counsel expressed concerns that bar associations may therefore oppose the move. (Nasir Iqbal, “In a first, woman judge to be elevated to SC,” Dawn, 13 August 2021)

Parliamentary committee calls for inquiry into Ehsanullah’s kill list
On 13 August, Dawn reported that a parliamentary committee had forwarded former TTP spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsas’s Facebook post and directed the interior secretary to conduct an inquiry into the same. The post included a “kill list” which had the names of former senators Farhatullah Babar, Afrasiab Khattak, Dr Syed Alam Mehsud and Mufti Kifayatullah. The development comes after Ehsanullah claimed that Usman Kakar’s murder was carried out in June because his name was included in the kill list; Farhatullah said, “In view of this background, we are deeply concerned over the hit list as it contains our names too.” (Jamal Shahid, “NA’s human rights panel takes up alleged ‘kill list’,” Dawn, 13 August 2021)

PDM does not have tools to weaken government, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn says that the PDM had been dormant for nearly ten weeks after the PPP split from the alliance, and had ceased to pose a challenge to the government since then. The editorial, in light of the recent meeting of PDM leaders, opined that without a clear objective and strategy, the alliance “may appear to be ‘full of sound and fury signifying nothing’.” It says that PDM may amplify and create a new narrative of criticism against the government now, but it does not have the tools to weaken it. It further says the PML-N’s duality is also pulling down the movement and therefore, “Unless the PML-N can clear this confusion and speak with one voice, the PDM will also remain unsure of what it really wants.” (“What is the PDM’s goal?,” Dawn, 13 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Soldier, terrorist killed in South Waziristan 
On 13 August, the ISPR said that a soldier and a terrorist were killed in an operation near a military post in South Waziristan’s Sararogha area. Another terrorist was apprehended and he “ later revealed that they planned to conduct a fire raid on a military post.” The incident took place on the night of 11-12 August. (“Soldier martyred, terrorist killed in South Waziristan operation: ISPR,” Dawn, 13 August 2021)

Sindh: Two suspected TTP militants arrested 
On 12 August, the Ibrahim Hyderi police said that they had arrested two suspected TTP militants who had planned to carry out acts of terrorism in Karachi. Arms and 10kg explosive were also recovered from the two suspects. A police spokesman said that the two had recently returned from Afghanistan and were a part of the attacks on NATO forces in Afghanistan. (“2 ‘TTP militants’ held, arms seized in Ibrahim Hyderi,” Dawn, 13 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinion urges Pakistani society to break free from toxic culture of misogyny 
An opinion in The Express Tribune, written in light of the Noor Mukadam, says that it is time for Pakistan to introspect on the “toxic culture of misogyny.” The author says that while Pakistani society may be conservative society, “it has no right to endorse norms and values which place half the population of the country in a very vulnerable position.” He outlines the problems faced by women, including domestic violence, the gender gap and disparities, which have been fuelled by the “myopic interpretations of religion, and the government’s failure to tackle violations.” With this, he says that spontaneous reactions like calling for execution of the criminals do not solve the issue of gender violence, and therefore pushes for a “soul searching” as to why “Pakistan remains at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to ensuring women’s rights and protecting them…” (Syed Mohamad Ali, “Pakistan’s gender violence pandemic,” The Express Tribune, 13 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistani forces and Afghan civilians clash at Chaman 
On 12 August, Pakistani forces clashed with Afghans stranded at the Pakistani side of the Chaman-Spin Boldak border. The clashes broke out when a 56-year-old died of a heart attack while waiting to enter Afghanistan from the crossing. Dawn reported that the Afghans then carried the man’s body to a local government office calling for the reopening of the border crossing; the border was closed by the Taliban. The Afghans reportedly started pelting stones and the security forces used tear gas and batons on them leading to the clash. (“Pakistani forces clash with Afghan protesters at Chaman border crossing,” Dawn, 13 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that Pakistan’s balanced approach towards securing citizens’ rights and achieving economic development ended abruptly.

An opinion in Dawn on the internet and economic growth states that for countries like Pakistan, it might not be enough to just have universal access; there must also be a plan for optimising it.

An editorial in Dawn argues that with the new Automotive Industry Development and Export Policy 2021-26 expected to be announced shortly, it is imperative for the government to look into these issues to protect the interests of consumers.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that gender violence is a lingering and complex problem, and it will not go away by wishing it away or ignoring it. It adds, Pakistan needs to establish an effective system for the protection, relief, and rehabilitation of victims of violence.

An opinion in The News International states that Pakistan is on a growth trajectory. However, to tackle a potential balance of payments crisis, it will have to choose a rational combination of three moves: a gradual depreciation in the rupee’s value, a gradual increase in interest rate and a phased increase in energy prices.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar

On 12 August, Dawn reported that car sales for July had increased by 104 per cent, to 20,699 units. The development comes amid a 56.7 per cent recovery of car sales in FY21. Apart from cars, trucks, jeeps, and pick up sales also improved over the month. Pak Suzuki Motor Company Ltd (PSMCL) and Indus Motor Company (IMC) recorded the leading figures with a sale of 15,181 and 6,715 units respectively. Overall, 24,918 units were sold in July. However, the demand for two-wheelers fell. 

The above developments took place after several incentives were introduced in Budget 2021-22. The government measures towards the automobile industry include slashing of the Federal Excise Duty (FED) by 2.5 per cent, additional customs duty (ACD) from 7 per cent to 2 per cent and GST from 17 per cent to 12.5 per cent for cars up to 1,000cc. The Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association chairman said, “We are optimistic that through increased volumes the industry will generate more revenue for the government, create more jobs and increase economic activity in the country.” Further, he estimated that with increasing remittances and low interest rates, the demand will remain stable over FY22. However, the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers chairman explains that prices of two-wheelers have increased because of “an unprecedented jump (over 100pc) in raw material prices…”

Apart from the above measures, the government had also launched the “Roshan Apni Car” scheme for overseas Pakistanis to buy cars for their families in Pakistan. The benefits can be availed by anyone with a Roshan Digital Account. Car manufacturers were impressed by the initiative, and hoped that it would boost car manufacturing and Dawn quoted an analyst who estimated that overseas Pakistanis may buy 10,000 to 30,000 cars in two years’ time. 

The overall growth in the automobile industry has been recorded against the backdrop of a slump which lasted for several years. Some reasons behind the slump include high taxes, schemes to assist overseas Pakistanis to buy used cars, which impacted local car manufacturing and sales. Taxes amounted to almost 40 per cent of the total prices of the car, thereby pushing out the lower middle class out of the market. 

Therefore, the growth in sales of automobiles indicates “an overall uptick in domestic economic activities” following the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions. Further, Pakistan expects Chinese and Japanese entrants into its automobile landscape in the near future, along with Korean companies. Meanwhile, the industry should focus on introducing entry-level affordable cars for the middle-class consumers.  

In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM rejects electoral reforms 
On 11 August, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) announced a countrywide protest against inflation and rejected the PTI government’s electoral reforms as well as the results of the recent “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” polls. Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, “We reject each and every electoral reform put forward by this selected government, and we believe that NAB and FIA have become political institutions, who have lost their standing, as they are being used against the Opposition.” Additionally, the alliance met during which they discussed the future stages of the anti-government movement and the threats posed to the country on the foreign front. (“PDM rejects electoral reforms, AJK results,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2021)

Nawaz’s submits fresh medical report to LHC
On 11 August, Nawaz Sharif’s submitted ‘fresh’ medical reports to the Lahore High Court stating that he “cannot return as doctors have not yet allowed him air travel.” This is the 11th medical report of Nawaz Sharif submitted to the LHC since he left the country in November 2019 for his treatment. In his previous, his medical reports a similar plea had been taken that ‘doctors have stopped him (Nawaz) from air travel’. (Zulqernain Tahir, “Nawaz’s fresh medical report submitted to LHC,” Dawn, 12 August 2021)

Media representative reject Pakistan Media Development Authority
On 11 August, all representative organisations and associations of media industry rejected the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA), terming the law behind it a draconian one. In a joint statement, they criticised the law as a step towards imposing state control over all segments of media through the creation of a single over-centralised body. (“Representative organisations of media industry reject Pakistan Media Deve­lopment Authority,” Dawn, 12 August 2021)

‘Election-to-election’ planning of Pakistan's former leaders had put the nation in a difficult position, says PM
On 11 August, PM Imran Khan while addressing a ceremony after performing groundbreaking of Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project said that a plan to build the Bhasha dam was conceived in 1984 but it couldn’t be materialised. He said “Either they [former rulers] lacked vision or they thought of their five years of power and our nation suffered dearly in its wake,” adding, saying “election-to-election” planning of former leaders had put the nation in a difficult position. (“Pakistan paying heavy price for ex-rulers’ lack of foresight: Imran at Tarbela extension groundbreaking,” Dawn, 12 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Economy entering sustainable growth phase, says SBP Governor
On 11 August, Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan Dr Reza Baqir stated that Pakistan has succeeded in entering a sustainable economic growth phase after attaining stability and will keep moving forward to achieve a high growth rate. He added that despite a negative real interest rate, the central bank has kept its policy rate unchanged at seven per cent to allow the economy to grow. Additionally, he stated that if the foreign exchange reserves decrease with the increasing current account deficit, it is the cause of concern, however, in the case of Pakistan, the foreign exchange reserves have been increasing. (Shahid Iqbal, “Economy entering sustainable growth phase: SBP chief,” Dawn, 12 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
The US finds Pakistan useful only to clear mess in Afghanistan, says PM Imran
On 12 August, Dawn reported that PM Imran Khan accused the US saying, “Pakistan is just considered only to be useful in the context of somehow settling this mess which has been left behind after 20 years of trying to find a military solution when there was not one,” adding, “Pakistan is just considered only to be useful in the context of somehow settling this mess which has been left behind after 20 years of trying to find a military solution when there was not one.” He added, “I think that the Americans have decided that India is their strategic partner now, and I think that’s why there’s a different way of treating Pakistan now.” (“US finds Pakistan useful only to clear mess in Afghanistan: PM Imran,” Dawn, 12 August 2021)

PM Khan offers to facilitate talks between Taliban and Turkey
On 11 August, PM Imran Khan said that efforts would be made to facilitate talks between the Taliban and Ankara on running and guarding Kabul airport after other foreign troops withdraw from Afghanistan. He said, “The best thing is for Turkey and the Taliban to have a face-to-face dialogue. So both can talk about the reasons why Kabul airport has to be secured,” adding, “And so we will be talking to the Taliban, to use our influence on them, to have a face-to-face talk with Turkey.” (“PM Imran offers to facilitate Taliban, Ankara talks,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2021)

NSA alleges that Indian, Afghan social media accounts involved in anti-Pakistan propaganda
On 12 August, The Express Tribune reported that National Security Adviser (NSA) Moeed Yusuf claimed that many Indian and Afghan social media accounts were involved in maligning Pakistan. He stated that as the US is completing its withdrawal in Afghanistan, ‘face-saving’ attempts are being made to hide its failure to ensure peace in the war-torn country, adding that many Afghan and Indian social media accounts are involved in promoting this narrative. (“Indian, Afghan social media accounts involved in anti-Pakistan propaganda: NSA,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2021)

COAS urges ‘stakeholders’ to contribute positively to Afghan peace rather than blaming Pakistan
On 11 August, COAS General Qamar Bajwa called on ‘stakeholders’ in the Afghan peace process to contribute positively to it rather than blaming Pakistan for its failures there. He said, “Being a collective responsibility, all stakeholders have to play their part positively for enduring peace in Afghanistan which is pivotal for stability in the region. Misperceptions and scapegoating must be avoided to counter designs of spoilers.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Bajwa urges stakeholders to work positively for Afghan peace,” Dawn, 12 August 2021)

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that Pakistani leaders call to have a democratic system in Pakistan, but their efforts hardly match the clamour. It adds, the biggest bottleneck to conducting local body elections is bureaucracy.

An opinion in Dawn argues that suo motu actions should not be celebrated as a victory for the rule of law, but rather be seen as an implicit admission of the judicial system’s lack of capacity and inability to provide swift justice as envisioned under the Constitution.

An opinion in Dawn on spending on borrowed time states that Pakistan’s economy will not be able to grow if its isolation continues.

An opinion in Dawn argues that the two Pakistani finalists have achieved Olympian status without adequate training, state support or supervised supplements.

An editorial in Dawn stated that it is time for the superior judiciary to work towards transparent and objective criteria for elevation to its ranks. It must negate even the slightest impression that anything but integrity underlies its judgements and actions.

An editorial in Dawn on PM Khan’s visit to Karachi states that the PTI-led federal govt should not ignore the Sindh administration and attempt to rule Karachi through fiats.

On 10 August, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported that Pakistan received workers’ remittances amounting to USD 2.71 billion in July 2021 compared to USD 2.764 billion in July 2020, depicting a decline of USD 57 million. Although home remittances arrived during July 2021 were some 2.1 per cent lower than July 2020, they remained above the USD 2.0 billion mark for the 14th consecutive month and is the second-highest ever level of remittances reported in the month of July.
Remittance inflows during July 2021 were mainly sourced from Saudi Arabia (USD 641 million), United Arab Emirates (USD 531 million), United Kingdom (USD 393 million) and the United States (USD 312 million).

According to the SBP, “This marginal year-on-year decline (of 2.1 per cent) was largely on account of Eidul Azha, which resulted in fewer working days in July 2021 compared to last year.”
In terms of growth, remittances increased by 0.7 per cent over the previous month of June 2021, in which USD 2.688 billion remittances were received. On a cumulative basis, remittances rose to a historic annual high level of USD 29.4 billion during the last fiscal year (FY21) as a result of the government’s policy measures.

Workers' Remittances since January 2021
January: Workers’ remittances amounted to USD 2.3 billion in January 2021, up by 19 per cent over January 2020.
February: Workers’ remittances amounted to USD 2.266 billion in February 2021, 24.2 per cent higher than in February 2020.
March: Workers’ remittances rose to USD 2.7 billion in March 2021, a 20 per cent higher than the previous month and 43 per cent higher than March 2020.
April: Workers’ remittances rose to an all-time monthly high of USD 2.8 billion in April 2021, a 56 per cent higher than during the same month in FY21.
May: Workers’ remittances amounted to USD 2.5 billion, 33.5 per cent higher than the same month in FY21. These were also higher than the monthly average of USD 2.4 billion during July-April FY21.
June: Workers’ remittances amounted to USD 2.7 billion in June 2021, a nine per cent growth Year-on-year and eight per cent growth month-on-month.

Where is the remittance coming from?
According to the SBP, the inflow from Saudi Arabia fell to USD 641 million from USD 821 million in the same month of the previous financial year. The inflow from Saudi Arabia was the highest with USD 7.667 billion in FY21 compared to USD 6.61 billion in FY20. 

The second highest remittances of USD 530 million came from the United Arab Emirates in July FY22 with a decline of 1.4 per cent compared to July FY21. In the entire FY21, the remittances from the UAE grew by 8.9 per cent to USD 6.114 billion as compared to USD 5.612 billion in FY20. 

The inflow from the United States of America showed a growth of 24 per cent in July while it grew by 82 per cent in July FY21. Pakistan received USD 312 million compared to USD 251 million in the corresponding period of last year. 

The remittances from the United Kingdom remained the same with an inflow of USD 393 million in July compared to FY21. The remittance from the UK increased by 58.3 per cent in FY21 against a decline of 24.7 per cent in FY20 while the remittances of USD 4.067 billion was the third-largest in terms of amount. Meanwhile, the inflow from the European Union increased by 31 per cent to USD 298 million in July FY22.

The inflows from the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) declined by 1.1 per cent to USD 294 million from USD 297 million in July last year. The inflows from the GCC countries in FY21 showed an inflow of USD 3.309 billion while the growth was 13.7 per cent against 37 per cent of the preceding year.

Inflow from Roshan Digital Account
The inflow through Roshan Digital Account reached USD 1.87 billion at the end of July, recording the second-highest inflow since the RDA was launched in September 2020. According to the SBP, Pakistan received USD 307 million in July compared to USD 310 million in June, reflecting a trend with an inflow of over USD 300 million per month.

The role of Remittance 
Remittances play an important part in Pakistan's economy which continues to face widening trade and current account deficits. According to the SBP’s Third Quarterly Report on ‘The State of Pakistan’s Economy for the fiscal year 2020-21,’ the workers' remittances is expected to remain buoyant, as the main factors which include the switch to formal channels, incentives for banks will continue to be in place.
According to the SBP, “Proactive policy measures by the government and SBP to incentivise the use of formal channels and curtailed cross-border travel in the face of Covid-19 have positively contributed towards the sustained improvement in remittance inflows since last year.” The central bank expects remittances to remain strong and improve in the current fiscal year 2022.

In Brief
INTERNAL
IHC condemns civic bodies’ inaction on land encroachment by government and private entities
On 10 August, the Islamabad High Court concluded that government bodies and private parties had encroached upon the  National Park land; the Court also accused the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) of turning a blind eye to these problems. The petitioner maintained that entities including the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy had encroached upon the protected land. Justice Athar Minallah came down on the civic bodies maintaining that “inaction on part of public functionaries is beyond comprehension and deprecated because their conduct is exposing future generations to serious consequences due to environmental degradation and climate change.” (Malik Asad, “Protected National Park encroached upon by govt entities & private parties, IHC told,” Dawn, 11 August 2021)

Pakistan weakened by foreign aid, says Imran
On 10 August, Imran Khan said that foreign aid had weakened the growth trajectory of Pakistan and explained that countries grew strong only if they attain self-sufficiency and trust their potential. He said, “We became an import-led economy and Pakistan started relying on foreign aid.” He said his government aims to end the reliance on foreign aid. He was speaking at an inaugural ceremony of ship lift and transfer system at the Karachi Shipyard. (“Foreign aid weakened Pakistan: PM,” The News International, 11 August 2021) 

ECONOMY
CCOP approves plan to split PSM 
On 10 August, the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCOP) gave its green signal to split the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) into two companies, “good” and “bad” companies. Officials said the CCOP decided that the majority stakes of the “good” company, which is the Steel Corp Private Limited, should be sold. Officials informed that the CCOP concluded that the government would retain 26 per cent stakes in the Steel Corp and  51 per cent to 74 per cent stakes would be sold to the private bidders. (Shahbaz Rana, “PSM split into ‘good, bad’ companies,” The Express Tribune, 11 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinion highlights the need to stop victim blaming in Pakistan 
An opinion in Dawn outlines that after the initial outrage over the murder of Noor Mukadam, people have gone back to blaming the victim and highlights that even the media has reduced the coverage of the issue. The author also refers to the bill on domestic violence which was sent to the Council of Islamic Ideology and says that “It has been an uphill task for all those who have raised a voice for legislation against domestic violence” and that hope for change has been confined to the digital space. Otherwise, she says that though the hope for change in Pakistan is dim, it is extremely important to convict “Pakistan’s femicidal maniacs and those who protect them” because “One dead girl is nothing to them, but it should be everything to all of us.” (Rafia Zakaria, “The wolves among us,” Dawn, 11 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Iran to open six trade corridors along border with Pakistan, says Sanjrani
On 10 August, the Senate Chairman said that the Iranian President had announced the opening of six trade corridors along the border in Balochistan. He said it would boost job opportunities for the people living along the Iran-Pakistan border in Balochistan, as the communities were dependent on border trade. He also said that currently, “development projects worth Rs20 billion are being undertaken in Chagai and these projects would provide a lot of job opportunities to the masses in near future.” (Ali Raza Rind, “Iran president has decided to open 6 more border trade routes, says Sanjrani,” Dawn, 11 August 2021)

Defense Secretary says US would like to continue improving ties with Pakistan 
On 10 August, the Pentagon said that the US Defense Secretary Austin had expressed the interest to continue improving US-Pakistan ties, to COAS Bajwa. Dawn quoted the Pentagon Press Secretary that the two also “discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, regional security and stability, and the bilateral defence relationship more broadly.” The Press Secretary said, “We are also mindful that Pakistan and the Pakistani people also fall victim to terrorist activities that emanate from that region. So, we all have a shared sense of the importance of closing down those safe havens and not allowing them to be used by the Taliban or other terrorist networks to sow discord.” (Anwar Iqbal, “US wants to continue improving ties, Austin tells Bajwa,” Dawn, 11 August 2021)

Chinese ambassador calls on COAS 
On 10 August, Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong met with COAS Bajwa; the ISPR said that they discussed matters of mutual interest; this included regional security, CPEC progress, and defence collaboration. The Express Tribune quoted from the ISPR statement, “Visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's sincere efforts for peace and stability in the region. He reiterated that China shall continue to support Pakistan as a strategic partner.” (“China reaffirms support to Pakistan as ‘strategic partner’,” The Express Tribune, 11 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Opinion says successive governments in Kabul have failed to show competence
An editorial in The Express Tribune referring to the recent capture of Afghanistan’s provincial capitals by the Taliban says that at the current rate, it is only a matter of time before major cities like Kandahar and Mazar-i-Sharif fall. The editorial opines that those cities which resist the Taliban will do so because of their own prowess, and not because of the Kabul government. It praises the warlords who have vowed to fight till death but however outlines the Taliban has an upper hand wherein the group has “gone for supply lines first, cutting off many areas in ways that ensure that even stalemate battles will end with the surrender of the besieged.” It says the only solution lies in the coming together of Kabul, but calls it a “wishful thinking” opining that over the last two decades, the Afghan governments have “failed to show an iota of competence.” ("The continuing onslaught," The Express Tribune, 11 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn states that there’s little PM Khan can do to detoxify President Biden’s thoughts. Thus, the phone dialogue, if it takes place, will be characterised by the reticence that is one of Biden’s assets.

An opinion in Dawn states that amid the escalating Taliban military blitz, Russia, China and Pakistan have far greater stakes in stopping the violence in Afghanistan. It adds, Both the Taliban and Afghan government should show equal willingness to reach a ceasefire and restart substantial talks.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the high food inflation states that this should be a cause of concern for Pakistan’s policymakers since it is not only detrimental to the well-being of the people but also to the government’s growth plans.

An editorial in Dawn critical of revelation on contaminated water the states that Pakistan is hurtling headlong into disaster, warning that unless drastic measures are not taken immediately, there will be no turning back.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on the Tareen bloc and PTI states that the ongoing rift is a distraction on the path of good governance and could derail the govt’s achievements

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar

On 7 August, Arshad Nadeem became the first track-and-field athlete to qualify for the finals in the Olympics; though the javelin thrower finished fifth, hopes for an Olympic medal which have been kindled will now linger till the Paris Olympics in 2024. Apart from Nadeem, Pakistan had also pinned hopes on weightlifter Talha Talib; he too finished fifth in the 67kg category after qualifying for the finals. The General Manager of Islamabad United of the PSL had tweeted that Talib was the “first Pakistani weightlifter to make the cut for the Olympics since 1976.”

Pakistan first participated in the Olympics in 1948 in London. Till date, Pakistan has won ten medals, of which eight come under the men’s field hockey game; the last medal was won in 1992 in the Barcelona Olympics. Further, Pakistan had been known for its men’s hockey team; a feature in The News International explains that from 1956 to 1984, Pakistan secured three gold, three silver medals and one bronze medal in men’s field hockey. Apart from this, Pakistan won bronze medals in wrestling and boxing in 1960 and 1988 respectively. The country last secured a bronze medal in 1992 through the men’s hockey team. Since 1992, for 29 years on, Pakistan has failed to secure a win at the Olympics. 

In the Tokyo Olympics 2020, Pakistan was represented by a 24-member contingent. Though the two finalists were unable to secure a medal for Pakistan, social media was abuzz with praise for the two. From political leaders to celebrities to journalists to the common man, Pakistanis rejoiced at the moment. However, along with the jubilation, people were quick to highlight the challenges faced by sportspersons in the country. A Karachi-based sports reporter tweeted, “Arshad Nadeem finished 5th in Olympic Javelin throw competition. A remarkable achievement for someone coming from a small village without any adequate facilities. He achieved this all at his own, due to his hardwork. So no vazeer, musheer, board should dare to take credit of this.” Similarly, cricketer Shadab Khan tweeted, “Proud of you #ArshadNadeem. If you had the right kind of support and financial backing, you would have definitely come home with a medal. You are a Pakistani hero and I once again pledge to support our Olympics athletes. #SKOlympicsFund #PakistanZindabad.”

However, an editorial in Dawn opines that Pakistan’s performance has deteriorated not only in Olympic sports, but also in cricket and squash. First, a reason behind this is the “differences between the government, the sports federations and the Olympic Association,” which hinder expansion of sports into the provinces. Another editorial in The News International reasons that the deterioration of sports avenues and performance can be attributed to the leadership of sports organisations, wherein the “heads are mostly non-professionals routinely reelected in PSB-supervised polls with little to no accountability.” Second, the problem lies in the infrastructural facilities; the Pakistan Olympics Association had previously claimed that the “existing facilities and financial support for our (Pakistani) sportspersons are the lowest in the region’.” Third, an environment encouraging sports does not exist at the grassroots level, including in schools. Therefore, the above editorials call for an overhaul of the system, wherein there is adequate attention to sports at the educational institutions as well as professional sports persons head academies and training centres. Lastly, it calls for a sustained celebration of sports stars than limiting the support to the trending hashtags.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Government tells NA that an overwhelming majority of the cities do not have safe drinking water 
On 9 August, the federal Minister for Science and Technology Shibli Faraz told the National Assembly that an overwhelming majority of the cities, including the megacities, in Pakistan do not have safe drinking water for citizens. Further, he informed that out of the 29 cities where underground water was tested by the Pakistan Council of Research of Water Resou­rces (PCRWR), there are 20 cities where more than 50 per cent water was obtained from various sources was found to be unsafe. (Amir Wasim, “No safe drinking water in major cities, NA told,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

NCOC decide to restrict train travel of unvaccinated people from October
On 9 August, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) decided to prohibit unvaccinated people from travelling on trains from 1 October. Additionally, NCOC called on the provinces to ensure that standard operating procedures (SOPs) were followed during Muharram. (Ikram Junaidi, “Unvaccinated people face train travel ban from Oct 1,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)
Labourers and traders stage protest against closure of the Taftan trade gate
On 10 August, Dawn reported that labourers and traders help demonstrations against the prolonged closure of tax-free trade gate Zero Point and Bazarcha at the Pak-Iran border in Taftan town of Chagai district. (Ali Raza Rind, “Protest against closure of Taftan trade gate held,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

Voting machine displayed in parliament house
On 9 August, the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) was displayed in the National Assembly as the government and the opposition hold opposing views on its effectiveness to check vote tampering. President Dr Arif Alvi and Information Minister Fawad said the EVM was the “best tool” for ensuring transparency in the elections process. Conversely, PML-N Secretary Information Marriyum Aurangzeb said that the PML-N has rejected the testing of the machine “behind the closed doors without any consultation with the opposition.” (“Govt, opposition poles apart on EVM,” The Express Tribune, 10 August 2021)

CII condemns mob attack on Hindu temple
On 9 August, the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has condemned the mob attack and desecration of a temple of the Hindu community in Bhong Sharif. The CII said, “Like the lives and property of non-Muslim minorities living in Pakistan, the protection of their places of worship is the legal responsibility of the state,” adding, “Demolishing any of their religious places of worship is a clear violation of Islamic law and Pakistani law.” (Kalbe Ali, “Council of Islamic Ideology condemns mob attack on Hindu temple,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

Pakistan a democracy only in name, says Hamid Mir
On 10 August, Dawn reported that Hamid Mir, the anchor and host of the now-off air primetime show Capital Talk on Geo in an interview with the BBC World Service, criticised the shrinking space for press freedom and the growing “climate of fear” for journalists in Pakistan. He said, “There is democracy in Pakistan but there is no democracy. There is a constitution in Pakistan but there is no constitution. And I am a living example of censorship in Pakistan.” (Atika Rehman, “Pakistan a democracy only in name: Hamid Mir,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: One killed, four injured by grenade attack in Quetta
On 9 August, one person was killed and four others were injured in a grenade attack at Sher Jan stop in Quetta. According to a provincial government spokesperson, a police van was targeted during the attack. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the blast. (“One killed, four injured in Quetta grenade attack,” The Express Tribune, 10 August 2021)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
PTI admits defeat in Nagar by-poll, says elections were fair
On 9 August, the PTI announced its candidate’s defeat in the Nagar by-election saying that the polling was held in a transparent, free, fair and peaceful manner. Additionally, the information minister and finance minister said electoral laws were followed during the by-polls, adding that the Gilgit-Baltistan government and the election commission fulfilled their responsibility by providing a level-playing field to all the candidates. (“PTI admits defeat in Nagar by-poll,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
‘Capitulation’ of Afghan forces not Pakistan’s fault, says FM Qureshi
On 9 August, FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi rejected the statement that blamed Pakistan for the current turmoil in Afghanistan, stating that Islamabad could not be held responsible for the “capitulation and meltdown” of the Afghan national defence forces in the face of the Taliban. He said, “It is unfortunate to scapegoat Pakistan for the failures of others. Issues of governance and meltdown of the Afghan national defence forces need to be looked into.” He added, “The lack of will to fight, the capitulation that we are seeing in Afghanistan... can we be held responsible for that? No we cannot,” adding, instead of blaming Pakistan, the international community should ponder over where did the amount of money spent in Afghanistan go? (“‘Capitulation’ of Afghan forces not Pakistan’s fault,” The Express Tribune, 10 August 2021)

ON ENERGY
Reduced ambitions for renewable energy, says Dawn
On 10 August, Dawn reported that while the new Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) has invited wide-scale criticism, a major overlooked dimension of this plan is its reduced ambition for variable renewable energy (VRE). It adds as IGCEP 2021-30 revising down the share of solar and wind in the energy mix to 12 per cent — compared to 30pc in the previous version which interfaced with the government’s policies and commitment of 30pc non-hydro renewable energy by 2030, proving to be a big reversal. Additionally, it states that while IGCEP claims that Pakistan has promising solar and wind potential which also have become the cheapest sources for power procurement due to the associated intermittency challenges and need for additional reserve requirements as backup generation their targets have been revised down. (“Reduced ambitions for renewable energy,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Israel, India and Afghanistan responsible for rising incidents of terrorism in Pakistan, says Interior Minister
On 9 August, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed alleged that Israel, India and Afghanistan were responsible for rising incidents of terrorism in the country. Additionally, he called for thwarting the conspiracies being hatched by Israel, India and Afghanistan’s intelligence agency against “our security.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Israel, India behind terrorism in Pakistan, says Sheikh Rashid,” Dawn, 10 August 2021)

COAS speaks with US defence secretary
On 10 August, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin held a telephonic conversation on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan amid an escalation of violence in the country. During the call, Secretary Austin expressed his interest in continuing to improve the US-Pakistan relationship and build upon our multiple shared interests in the region. (“US defence secretary wants to ‘improve’ Pak-US relationship,” The Express Tribune, 10 August 2021)

Pakistan to chair upcoming Abu Dhabi Dialogue
On 9 August, former special assistant to the Prime Minister Zulfiqar Bukhari stated that Pakistan to chair the upcoming Abu Dhabi Dialogue (ADD) for the first time since its inception in 2008. He said, “It’s a privilege for Pakistan to chair the upcoming Abu Dhabi Dialogue being held later this year for period of next 2 years. This honour comes for 1st time since Dialogue’s inception in 2008 from among 18 nations. We thank ADD & all member states, we hope to chair with fruitful insight.” (“In a first, Pakistan to chair upcoming Abu Dhabi Dialogue,” The Express Tribune, 10 August 2021)

An editorial in The Express Tribune on the Quetta blast states that it is increasingly clear that groups such as the BLA are only in operation to destabilise Balochistan. Similarly, an editorial in The News International states that past governments have shown little appetite for addressing the legitimate grievances of the Baloch, adding, more progress on this front could bring some much-needed relief to the people of Balochistan.

An editorial in Dawn argues that the government cannot force the state-owned utilities to become self-sustaining by improving their operational and revenue status unless their existing business model is changed and private competition encouraged. Nor can it tackle gas shortages, especially in winters, without private participation.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that Pakistan has not been able to maintain or diversify industrial production structure as is done by comparable countries. It states competition in the market is the only solution to resolving the conundrum of Pakistan’s faulty private sector.

An editorial in The Nation states that the growing circular debt is a continued threat for the economy and if structural reforms are not introduced at the earliest, the future of the energy sector will remain at stake.

An editorial in The Nation states that the problem with Pakistan’s railways is systemic; the rapid politicisation of the industry has enabled various inefficiencies to seep in. It says, an institutional dichotomy has been created in which a bureaucratic system continues to clash with the expectations of commercial level profits, adding either the system needs to be changed or expectations must be readjusted but either way, the government needs to act now.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Blast in Quetta leaves two policemen dead and 12 injured
On 8 August, two policemen were killed while 12 others were injured in an explosion near Quetta’s Serena Hotel. According to the Balochistan government spokesperson the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) was fitted into a motorcycle. The spokesperson condemned the attack, saying “terrorists want to disturb Balochistan's peace and spread fear,” adding, “[We] will bring to justice the elements trying to create disturbance in peaceful Balochistan.” Additionally, Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan also condemned the attack and expressed sadness over the martyrdom of the two police personnel, saying, “Terrorist elements want to ruin the province's peace. [We] will never allow terrorists to succeed in their nefarious plans.” This incident comes three months after a powerful bomb exploded in the parking lot of the Quetta Serena Hotel, killing five people and wounding several injured. Since then, there have been several attacks in the city in which security personnel and civilians were wounded or lost their lives. (Ghalib Nihad, “2 policeman martyred, 12 injured in blast near Quetta's Serena Hotel,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

PPP, PML-N allege that government is using institutions for own interests
On 8 August, the PPP termed the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) notices to party lawmakers making alleged hate speeches against the CJP, a “politically motivated” step. The PPP spokesman’s statement read, “It is apparent that this is witch-hunting and using state machinery against party spokespersons and office-bearers.” The development comes after the FIA issued notices for the personal appearance of three Sindh ministers, five members of the National Assembly and other PPP leaders in connection with the allegations. (“PPP terms FIA notices against party legislators ‘politically motivated’,” Dawn, 9 August 2021) Similarly, PML-N leaders Ataullah Tarar and Azma Bukhari alleged that the National Accountability Bureau’s new inquiry against Shehbaz Sharif is aimed at arresting and sending him to jail. Tarar maintained that the NAB was reopening cases on the directions of Imran Khan, while cases were not being filed against those abusing the opposition; further, he said the FIA was targeting those only critical of the government. (“New inquiry aimed at sending Shehbaz to jail again: PML-N,” The News International, 9 August 2021)

PDM to decide on a countrywide agitation against government, says Fazl 
On 8 August, Fazlur Rehman said the PDM rejected the proposed electoral reforms and said the alliance’s aim focused only on transparent and impartial elections. He also spoke against the proposed law on domestic violence, holding that some clauses were in contravention to the Quran and Sunnah, thereby violating the traditional family system. He said he would not accept the government’s “unilateral” decisions and opined that in politics, one should engage with the opponents. Therefore, he said that an emergency meeting of the PDM would be held to decide on a countrywide agitation against the government. (Azfar-ul-Ashfaque, “Fazl says PDM may launch countrywide agitation against controversial bills,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

FGIR report hold 20 officials responsible for train collision in June
On 9 August, Dawn reported on the Federal Government Inspector of Railways' inquiry report on the train accident in Ghotki district in June. The report blamed poor maintenance of the rail joint for the collision and held 20 Pakistan Railways officials, including the divisional superintendent of the Sukkar division, responsible for the same. Meanwhile, Dawn quoted the divisional superintendent, "I already knew that the FGIR would scapegoat me despite the fact I had informed the headquarters well in time about the issues that might lead to occurrence of any major accident within the operational jurisdiction of the Sukkar division." (Khalid Hussain, "Inquiry blames 20 PR officials for crash," Dawn, 9 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Three soldiers injured in firing across the Afghan border
On 8 August, three soldiers were wounded in a landmine explosion and firing from across the Afghan border in South Waziristan and North Waziristan. According to the ISPR, terrorists from inside Afghanistan opened fire on a Pakistan military post in Dewagar, North Waziristan district. Additionally, the ISPR said, Pakistan had consistently been requesting Afgha­nistan to ensure effective border management, adding, “Pakistan strongly condemns the use of Afghan soil by terrorists for activities against Pakistan.” (“3 soldiers injured in blast, firing from across Afghan border,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Couple killed for honour
On 8 August, a couple - 21-year-old man and 18-year-old woman - were killed for “honour” the New Mathera area. Dawn reported that investigations into the same have commenced that the victims’ families got registered cross FIRs. (“Couple killed for honour in Charsadda,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

ENERGY
Ogra asks the government for guidelines as gas firms’ monopoly ends
On 9 August, The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) asked the public representative and government to formulate policy guidelines for the competition-based development and expansion of national grid and new residential gas connection given the expiry of monopoly of the two gas companies, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited and Sui Southern Gas Company Limited. In a letter to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Energy (Petroleum Division) Ogra said, “Please be advised that exclusivity of the gas companies to operate in franchise areas is no longer valid and hence new development schemes are to be awarded on a competitive basis.” (Khaleeq Kiani, “Ogra seeks guidelines as gas firms’ monopoly ends,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
Shireen Mazari accuses UK of giving feeble excuses to retain Pakistan on red list
On 9 August, the Minister for Human Rights criticised the UK government for retaining Pakistan on the travel red list. She tweeted, "The UK government, dominated by Indophiles and despite globally documented India's continuing disastrous handling of the Covid pandemic, moved India to the amber list but keeps Pakistan on the red list; then under pressure from opposition MPs gives feeble excuse [that] Pakistan didn't share data." Further, she claimed that the UK never asked Pakistan for its data and accused the country of "shifting goalposts" by giving different "excuses" every time. ("Shireen Mazari slams UK govt's 'feeble excuse' for retaining Pakistan on travel 'red list'," Dawn, 9 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Editorial warns of flare-up in the Middle East in absence of truce between Israel-led bloc and Iran-led bloc
An editorial in Dawn, referring to the cross-border fighting between Israel and Lebanon, says that incident has “turned into a confrontation between Israel and its arch-nemesis Hezbollah” which is backed by Iran. The editorial outlines the recent escalation of tensions between the Israel-led and Iran-led camps, but says that it is “unlikely to spiral into a wider conflagration.” It calls on both sides to restrain themselves, and especially Israel “which has a history of occupying others’ land.” Lastly, it opines that unless the American-led group, which consists of Israel and Gulf Arab countries, and Iran-led allies, which has the Houthis, Hezbollah, come to a truce, the Middle East is likely to witness a large-scale escalation. (“Lebanon violence,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

ON INDIA
Foreign Office rejects ‘baseless Indian allegations of infiltration’ across Line of Control
On 8 August, Foreign Office spokesperson rejected reports on “terrorists are waiting at launch pads to infiltrate” into Kashmir from Pakistan. The spokesperson said, We categorically reject the baseless allegations that Pakistan wanted to infiltrate so-called 'terrorists' via the Line of Control (LoC),” adding, “The [Indian] army had been noticing the continued presence of around 140 terrorists at the launch pads across the LoC, likely waiting to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir, but the robust counter-infiltration grid had so far desisted them from making any such attempts.” (“Pakistan rejects 'baseless Indian allegations of infiltration' across Line of Control,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
There will be no Kashmir to save in two years, alleges Afridi
On 8 August, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Shehryar Afridi called on the OIC to “save the suffering humanity in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).” In a meeting with the OIC’s Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC), he alleged, “I fear there will be no Kashmir to save in two years’ time, if Indian demographic terrorism is not stopped as the regime in Jammu and Kashmir is fast changing the demography of IIOJK and Indian genocide of Kashmiri people is touching new highs.” (Amir Wasim, “Afridi asks UN, OIC to settle Kashmir issue before it is too late,” Dawn, 9 August 2021)

Maleeha Lodhi in an opinion in Dawn states that the future course of the world’s most consequential relationship will have far-reaching global ramifications.

An opinion in Dawn argues that growing insecurity and violence in Afghanistan are not only reducing the space for intra-Afghan political reconciliation, they are also threatening Pakistan’s border and internal security.

An editorial in Dawn states that although the PTI government projects the SNC as a silver bullet that will magically resolve Pakistan’s educational woes, or at least the bulk of them. Unfortunately, the problem is far too complex and the SNC is unlikely to address the more important aspects of it.

An editorial in Dawn on the tree plantation drive states that environmental ambitions must be reflected in the overall developmental and economic policy of the country if we want to conserve our natural surroundings.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that a genuine struggle for democracy requires of the PML-N to get rid of its corrupt and compromising past. Party’s supremo, Nawaz Sharif, must return to Pakistan and face the legal cases against him instead of just asking people to render sacrifices while himself staying in a self-imposed exile.

On 5 August, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb stated, “The UK Home Office has excused itself from further extending Muhammad Nawaz Sharif’s visa, adding, “Nawaz Sharif's lawyers have and that the Home Office's order “would not be effective” until a decision on the appeal, and that “Nawaz Sharif can reside in the UK legally until the appeal is decided.” Additionally, PML-N leader and Nawaz’s spokesperson Mohammad Zubair said the party would “exhaust” all legal options to get an extension in Nawaz’s UK visa, adding that the appeals process could take up to a year and a half due to the coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, he said that Nawaz’s case was “very strong” and it was likely that he would be granted an extension, ruling out the possibility of approaching the Pakistan High Commission to reclaim Nawaz’s passport. Meanwhile, Nawaz has filed an appeal in the British Immigration Tribunal after the Home Department refused to extend his stay in the country on “medical grounds” any further. Following the rejection of the request for a visa extension by the UK government, Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed said that the federal government was ready to issue documents to Nawaz if he was willing to return to Pakistan.

On 7 August, Dawn reported that PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif has ruled out Nawaz return to the country until his ‘full recovery.’ He stated that Nawaz can legally stay in the UK till the British immigration tribunal decides his appeal against the home department’s refusal to extend his visa. Additionally, he said, “It is inhuman to do politics on the health of a three-time premier. The government machinery is bent upon defaming Nawaz Sharif for its politics, which is earning a bad name to the country.” Additionally, he criticised the PTI-led government for engaging in ‘petty politics’ over the life of Nawaz and trying to ‘malign Pakistan’s reputation’ by issuing controversial statements, saying, “The Pakistani government should consider how its negative statements regarding former prime minister Nawaz Sharif reflect on Pakistan’s reputation.”

The debate in Pakistan over his stay
Nawaz who was serving a seven-year jail term following his conviction in the Al-Azizia reference was in 2019 allowed to leave for London on bail for medical reasons after he was diagnosed with an immune system disorder. However, since then the government has been under pressure especially since May 2020, after a picture of Nawaz having tea at a cafe in London along with his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on the seriousness of his health condition.

The debate over his return
An opinion in Dawn states that ever since Nawaz was allowed to leave the country, he has repeatedly promised to come back. However, he has shown no signs. It states, “if ever there was an appropriate time to keep his pledge, it is now. Instead of trying to extend his stay abroad indefinitely, he should return to fight his case in court, regardless of his and his party’s reservations about the charges against him. His presence would boost the PML-N’s chances in the next elections.” Similarly, an editorial in The News International argues that the possible return of Nawaz would place the PML-N at a critical juncture of whether to rally behind their leader or Shehbaz Sharif. It states that this situation could create several problems for the already divided PML-N.

An editorial in The Express Tribune states that the visa rejection by the British Home Office, leaves him limited avenues to continue his self-imposed exile, however, given that Nawaz still has a strong case for political persecution he is unlikely to return anytime soon.

Court cases and verdicts
In December 2020, Nawaz was declared a proclaimed offender in two corruption cases; Avenfield properties and Al-Azizia by the Islamabad High Court after he failed to appear before the court. The government had subsequently decided to cancel his passport.

Previously, in 2018, an accountability court in Pakistan had sentenced Nawaz to 10 years in prison for owning assets beyond his known sources of income and one year for not cooperating with the investigation of the Avenfield case. He was sentenced to seven years imprisonment in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case, where illegal investments were detected.

PTI’s and PML-N’s claims
Several PTI leaders are saying that the British decision vindicates their claims that Nawaz is not sick and at the same time claim that the PTI has no personal enmity with Nawaz. Conversely, the PML-N claims that the federal and provincial governments allowed Nawaz to get his treatment abroad, alleging that the government had framed fabricated cases of corruption against Nawaz but it had failed to prove any charge of corruption against him. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said, “In my opinion, Nawaz Sharif should go to the Pakistani embassy and get his temporary travel papers and come to Pakistan to face his cases.” He said that PM Imran Khan or the PTI had "no personal enmity” against Nawaz, adding, “Our only issue is that he has stolen billions from Pakistan and escaped ... that money should be returned to Pakistan .... you come back, return the money and stay at your home.. otherwise [you will] go to jail.”
 
Although Nawaz’s plea for a visa extension, he is unlikely to return anytime soon. The appeals process would most likely take time and until then Nawaz may continue to stay in the UK until the case is decided. However, the return or stay of Nawaz is likely to have an impact on the PML-N which is currently facing a political impasse.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PM briefed on plans to deal with border security
On 6 August, the ISPR in a statement said that PM Imran Khan was briefed about the ongoing stabilisation operations, fencing along the Pak-Afghan border and socio-economic development projects being undertaken in merged districts. Additionally, the PM was also briefed was also informed about the contingency plans to tackle the evolving security situation along the Pak-Afghan international border. (“PM Imran briefed on plans to deal with border security,” Dawn, 7 August 2021)

PROVINCE
Balochistan: SAPM on Health and Chief Minister discuss steps to make the province polio-free
On 6 August, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan met with Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani. During the meeting, they discussed polio vaccination, routine immunisation, health facility programme and Covid-19 situation in the province. Additionally, they discussed steps to make routine immunisation and anti-polio campaigns more effective in the province. (“Dr Faisal Sultan, Chief Minister Alyani discuss steps to make Balochistan polio-free,” Dawn, 7 August 2021)

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa: PM commends security forces’ role in the uplift of KP districts
On 6 August, PM Imran Khan and COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Peshawar Corps Headquarters. During his visit, he lauded security forces for providing an enabling environment for the completion of socio-economic development projects in the newly merged districts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) which are “vital for enduring stability and sustainable progress of the area.” (“PM lauds security forces’ role in uplift of K-P districts,” The Express Tribune, 7 August 2021)

ECONOMY
ADB approves USD 500 million loan to buy vaccines
On 6 August, the Asian Development Bank approved a USD 500 million loan to procure coronavirus vaccines. This comes after the government finally decided to disclose the Chinese vaccine price to the international lenders to secure more loans. According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, this financing facility will provide the USD 500 million for procurement of Covid-19 vaccine on highly concessional rates with 25 years’ repayment period including a five-year grace period. (“ADB approves $500m loan to buy vaccines,” The Express Tribune, 7 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
The word base was not mentioned, says NSA Yusuf
On 7 August, Dawn reported that National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf told US-based Pakistani journalists while summing up the visit that “the word base was not mentioned, not even once, during our talks, except in the media.” Additionally, while underlining Islamabad’s desire to maintain good ties with China and the US he said, “If there are tensions between the United States and China, we cannot say that our relations with both will remain seamless.” (“Word ‘base’ not even mentioned in talks with US, says NSA Moeed Yusuf,” Dawn, 7 August 2021)

ON KASHMIR
OIC urged to establish a humanitarian corridor
On 6 August, Dawn reported that “Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK)” President Sardar Masood Khan urged the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to establish a humanitarian corridor to aid people of Jammu and Kashmir. He made this statement while talking to a 12-member delegation of the OIC-Independent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC). (“OIC urged to establish humanitarian corridor for besieged Kashmiris,” Dawn, 7 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Taliban close border crossing with Pakistan
On 6 August, the Taliban shut down the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing saying no one would be allowed through until Pakistan dropped or relaxed its visa requirements for Afghans. In a statement the Taliban asked Pakistan to scrap all visa requirements for Afghans, saying, “(The crossing) will remain closed for all types of commuting, including transit and trade, for both sides, and pedestrians, until the Pakistani side leaves the gate open, morning to evening, for Afghans holding [Pakistani issued] migration cards or [Afghan] ID cards.” (“Taliban shut Chaman border,” The News International, 7 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn argues that the Pakistani state, at all levels, needs to be inclusive of women. State institutions should systematically make space for women and bring them at par with their male counterparts. It says this would be a step towards raising future generations of men in an environment that is free of gender-based violence.

Fahd Husain in an opinion in Dawn highlights certain facts as the PTI government completes three years in power this month. He says that the PTI is in its strongest position since 2018, however, there are still vulnerabilities that could rupture the prevailing perception of strength.

An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the vandalism of a temple in eastern Punjab states that minorities have immensely contributed to nation-building, and are a proud dispensation of their nationhood.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that if the Taliban take over Afghanistan, Pakistan will be subjected to a double whammy, arguing it will be blamed for their human rights violations and other bad practices.

An editorial in The News International on the politics over Sindh states that it has been clear since the PTI government came to power in the centre, and the PPP continued its rule in Sindh, that relations between the two parties were not good. It adds the relations have not improved since then, with the PTI also emerging now as a force which holds considerable power also in Karachi.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 4 August, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf’s Abdul Qayyum Niazi was elected the 13th prime minister of “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” by a comfortable margin. Niazi won the “AJK” polls from the LA-18 constituency. He had received 33 votes in the newly formed Legislative Assembly, whereas joint opposition's candidate Chaudhry Latif Akbar received 15 votes. President of “AJK” Sardar Masood Khan administered the oath to him as he took over the reins from former premier Raja Farooq Haider.

Earlier in the day, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry announced that Prime Minister Imran Khan had nominated Niazi as the ruling party’s candidate for the position, saying, that the decision was made after “considerable consultations and suggestions,” adding, “He [Niazi] is a vibrant, genuine political worker whose heart beats with the party’s political workers.”

PTI’s selection process
PM Khan interviewed a total of five to seven candidates for the post of “AJK” premier, including Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, Barrister Sultan Mahmood, Khawaja Farooq, Azhar Sadiq and Abdul Qayyum Niazi. According to Dawn, they were asked about their future strategy and views on the environment, tourism and national and international issues. Conversely, the PML-N and PPP agreed to field joint candidates for the slots of the prime minister, speaker and deputy speaker.

Who is Abdul Qayyum Niazi?
Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi belongs to the Dulli family of tehsil Abbaspur in “AJK’s” Poonch district. He began his political journey as a district councillor. Later he started his mainstream political journey from the platform of the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference (AJKMC) in the 2006 elections. He managed to win his first election and was appointed as food minister by the then “AJK” Prime Minister Sardar Atiq Ahmad Khan. In 2017, he joined the PTI and served as the joint secretary of the PTI’s “AJK” chapter. Initially, Niazi was not in the run for the post and was only added at the last minute.

What does his appointment mean?
The appointment of Niazi as the prime minister has left several questioning the PM choice as they do not consider him to be a serious contender for the top office as he is a new entrant to the party. Niazi’s nomination superseded several top party leaders and strong candidates for the post, particularly PTI Kashmir president and former premier Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, and billionaire Sardar Tanveer Ilyas. According to The Express Tribune, the appointment shows that a tug-of-war between the two heavyweights cleared the way for Niazi to get the prime minister’s office.

An opinion in The Daily Times argues that the PM has distributed the Kashmir portfolio among relative political lightweights with eroding credibility, adding that it is now being expected, rather feared, that the addition of Niazi to the list, will only add to such concerns. However, it states that Niazi by all accounts what is called in the world of politics a soft person adding the jury is now out on the choice for the “AJK” prime minister.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Civil and military leadership decided to form an inter-provincial committee to address border security concerns
On 5 August, the civil and military leadership decided to form an inter-provincial committee to address border security concerns at tri-borders of Punjab and Balochistan, in view of the situation in Afghanistan. The meeting presided over by Prime Minister Imran Khan, also approved a tentative plan for the less-developed areas of Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur to bring them on a par with other parts of Punjab, especially in the area of infrastructure development, provision of water, health and education. (“Inter-provincial border panel planned to tackle security,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

Civil armed forces to assist local administration during Muharram
On 5 August, the Interior Ministry stated that civil armed forces will be deployed to assist the local administration in maintaining law and order during the month of Muharram. Additionally, the Interior Minister said that special security arrangements would be made for sensitive areas. Efforts would be made to promote religious harmony during Muharram. (“Civil armed forces to assist local admin in maintaining law, order during Muharram,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

PM given a demo of Pak-made electronic voting machine
On 5 August, PM Imran Khan received a detailed presentation and a demonstration of a new locally-made electronic voting machine (EVM). The Federal Minister for Science and Technology stated that the new machine had been manufactured using indigenous resources and according to the specifications of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). (“PM Imran given demo of Pak-made electronic voting machine,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

GBV court awards death sentence to three people in the gang rape case
On 5 July, a gender-based violence court awarded death sentence to three people in the gang rape of a mentally challenged minor girl. (“Three get death for gang rape in Kasur,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

Politics over vaccines will trigger anarchy, says Asad Umar
On 5 August, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar warned that the world was moving towards global anarchy as every country wanted to administer the vaccine of its choice. He said, “countries have every right to make a decision on vaccination of their masses but they should not dictate international travellers.” (“Politics over vaccines will trigger anarchy: Asad Umar,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

Nawaz files appeal after the UK rejects plea for visa extension
On 5 August, Nawaz Sharif filed an appeal in the British Immigration Tribunal after the Home Department refused to extend his stay in the country on “medical grounds” any further. Meanwhile, the government offered to arrange his return to Pakistan at a notice of 24 hours if he is willing. (“Nawaz files appeal as UK rejects plea for visa extension,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Inflow from Roshan Digital Account reaches USD 1.87 billion
On 5 August, data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) showed that the inflow through Roshan Digital Account reached USD 1.87 billion at the end of July, with the first month of the current fiscal year witnessing the second-highest inflow since the RDA was launched in September last year. Additionally, it shows that the country received USD 307 million in July compared to USD 310 million in June, highlighting a trend with an inflow of over USD 300 million per month. (“Roshan Digital Account inflow reaches $1.87bn,” Dawn, 6 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
US made no specific requests to Pakistan, says NSA Moeed
On 6 August, The News International reported that National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf said that Pakistan will not accept a “forceful takeover” in Afghanistan and instead support a political solution to the conflict. He said, “We will not accept a forceful takeover,” adding that the only solution to peace in Afghanistan was a “political one.” He said, “We have made it absolutely clear that we are with the international community on where this goes,” adding, “But the world also needs to be clear that the US invests in a political settlement.” (“US made no specific requests to Pakistan: Moeed,” The News International, 6 August 2021)

An editorial in Dawn states that while Pakistan should do all it can to help Afghan civilians fleeing conflict in their homeland, ‘solutions’ should not be thrust on this country.

An editorial in Dawn states that the police have a valid point when they complain that their services do not get the acknowledgement they deserve, arguing police reform is a promise that remains unfulfilled due to the weakness of governments. Similarly, an editorial in The News International states that it is the state that has the utmost responsibility to ensure that all of the people that make this country are safe, no matter what religion, sect, ethnicity they belong to.

An editorial in Dawn argues that the shameful desecration of a Hindu temple in the town of Bhong, Punjab, has once again exposed how tenuous the rights of minorities are in today’s Pakistan.

An opinion in The News International states that the geographical targets of floods are changing in Pakistan, and so is the discourse on the causes of floods. It says, it is not the katchi abadi residents who should face eviction, it should be the residents of the big-name housing societies, and other such upper-class residential brands of Pakistan facing eviction to ensure the restoration of the environmental ecology of the country.

In Focus
By Apoorva Sudhakar

On 5 August (today), Pakistan observed the “Youm-e-Istehsal” to reportedly express solidarity with Kashmir and mark two years of alleged “military siege” of Kashmir. Pakistan President Arif Alvi led a rally in Islamabad, with several ministers. Prior to this, on 4 August, Foreign Minister wrote a letter to the UNSC and the UN Secretary General, claiming that India’s decision in 2019 was unlawful. 

Prime Minister Imran Khan tweeted, “Today marks two years since India’s unilateral and illegal actions of 5 Aug 2019 in IIOJK. In these two years, the world has witnessed unprecedented oppression in IIOJK (Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir) by Indian Occupation forces. It is also witnessing Indian efforts to force demographic change and destroy Kashmiri identity.” He said he would continue speaking on Kashmir “till Kashmiris are allowed to decide their future according to UNSC resolutions.”

Apart from the above, opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif also echoed the same and tweeted, "Kashmiris' struggle for their UN-sanctioned rights against a fascist Modi regime that has worn the mask of democracy renews our faith in the power of resilience & defiance."

The President says
President Arif Alvi wrote an opinion in Dawn claiming that since 2019, “Kashmiri brothers and sisters remain under a brutal military occupation.” Alvi claims that Pakistanis,  “in their hearts and in their minds,” are united with “Kashmiri brothers and sisters.” Further, Alvi says that Pakistan has raised its concerns on Kashmir at various platforms since 2019 and is continuing to do so. Pakistan’s concerns, he says, include, an alleged “demographic change through arbitrary alterations in a century-old domicile law” and “a law to diminish the use of the Urdu language.” Alvi later alleges that India is running a campaign to malign Pakistan to divert the world’s attention from Kashmir. He opines that India has lost “whatever little support it claimed to have in IIOJK” through it “belligerent” actions, and calls on the international community. 

The media opines
An editorial in Dawn opines that the abrogation could not “break the Kashmiris’ spirit and their longing for freedom and dignity.” The editorial says that apart from Pakistan, organisations like the Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have criticised India. It says criticism of such scale should urge governments to review their decision; it cites that the Indian government had recently held a meeting with Kashmiri leaders who called for restoration of Article 370, but says that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not seem interested to act on the suggestions. It concludes by saying that India must engage with “genuine Kashmir leadership” and Pakistan to resolve the issue. 

Similarly, an editorial in The News International opines that the “miseries” of Kashmiris continue despite the abrogation of Article 370, accusing India of carrying out the “human rights abuses in Occupied Kashmir.” It says that despite the UN and EU’s attention to Kashmir, there has not been an impact on th Indian government. It says abuses including mass rape, disappearances and extrajudicial killings have taken place in Kashmir. The editorial says that the situation in Kashmir is likely to worsen “as Kashmiri resistance steps up action in an effort to regain autonomy and to prevent a demographic change.”

Also read
Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, "India’s failed assumptions," The News International, 5 August 2021
Ershad Mahmud, "Two years of lost autonomy," The News International, 5 August 2021
Dr Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, "Kashmir solidarity," The News International, 5 August 2021
"August 5," The Nation, 5 August 2021
Dr Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur, "Kashmir; has the time come?," The Nation, 5 August 2021

In Brief
INTERNAL
President Alvi says the country may face security challenges in the next few months
On 4 August, President Dr Arif Alvi said there was a need to remain vigilant as the country might face security challenges in the next few months due to emerging situation in the neighbouring country, referring to Additionally, he said Pakistan had proved to the world that it was a peace-loving country and stood for peace and stability in the region. (“Country may face security challenges in next few months, says president,” Dawn, 5 August 2021)

Covid positivity ratio records at eight per cent
On 4 August, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) recorded the national COVID positivity ratio during 24 hours at 8.22 per cent. Meanwhile, it reported that Pakistan managed to administer 1,139,580 doses to the individuals in 24 hours. (“Covid positivity ratio reaches 8pc,” Dawn, 5 August 2021)

Mob vandalised a temple after minor boy gets bail in desecration case
On 4 August, hundreds of people vandalised a Hindu temple in Bhong town and blocked the Sukkur-Multan Motorway (M-5). The incident took place after a nine-year-old Hindu boy, who allegedly urinated in a local seminary, was granted bail by a local court. (“Mob ransacks temple after minor boy gets bail in desecration case,” Dawn, 5 August 2021)

Senate body calls for legislation on the right of appeal against military court verdicts
On 5 August, Dawn reported that the Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice has called upon the government to consider giving citizens the right to appeal against the verdicts of military courts and, if needed, consider amending the Pakistan Army Act. Additionally, the senators opposed granting of such a concession to Kulbhushan Jadhav. (“Senate body calls for legislation on right of appeal against military court verdicts,” Dawn, 5 August 2021)

COAS asks commanders to keep themselves abreast of the latest developments
On 4 August, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa emphasised that commanders at all levels should stay focused on achieving professional excellence to overcome emerging challenges. Additionally, he urged the commanders to keep themselves abreast of the latest developments to professionally handle challenges. (“Commanders must keep themselves abreast of latest developments: COAS,” The News International, 5 August 2021)

WAPDA seeks early start of Dasu project work
On 4 August, Dawn reported that the Water and Power Development Authority has decided to involve the Chinese ambassador to convince the Gezhouba Group Company for the resumption of work on the Dasu hydropower project. An official from WAPDA said that ambassador of China Nong Rong would attend the next week’s meeting, adding, “We are optimistic that work on Dasu dam will recommence on Aug 14.” (“Wapda hopeful about early start of Dasu project work,” Dawn, 5 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Sindh: PM asks federal authorities to expedite work on development projects in the Sindh
On 5 August, The Express Tribune reported that PM Imran Khan decided to initiate an action plan in Sindh with the aid of federal government departments and directed the relevant authorities to speed up work on the projects under the Sindh package, including Karachi’s Green Line Bus Rapid Transit System. Additionally, the federal government has decided to use the federal institutions to improve the law and order situation in Sindh and curb the smuggling and trade of narcotics. (“Sindh action plan back in Centre’s spotlight,” The Express Tribune, 5 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
The US asks Pakistan to keep its borders with Afghanistan open for Afghan refugees
On 4 August, a State Department official states that the US wants Pakistan to keep its borders with Afghanistan open for Afghan refugees. The Official said, “Obviously, if people go north or if they go via Iran to Turkey …(they) have an opportunity both to enter the country as well as to register with either the government or with UNHCR,” adding, “So, in a place like Pakistan, it’ll be important that their borders remain open.” (Anwar Iqbal, “US wants Pakistan to keep Afghan border open for DPs,” Dawn, 5 August 2021)

ON CPEC
China looks forward to ‘jointly promote’ CPEC with its new civilian chief, says Ambassador
On 4 August, the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong congratulated the newly-appointed Special Assistant to Prime Minister on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) affair Khalid Mansoor. The ambassador conveyed that China was looking forward to jointly promoting the mega project with high-quality development. Additionally, He also paid tribute to Lt-Gen (retd) Asim Saleem Bajwa for his contribution in advancing the CPEC project, saying, “Our cooperation will be valued, friendship cherished, and efforts recognised.” (“China looks forward to 'jointly promote' CPEC with its new civilian chief,” The Express Tribune, 5 August 2021)

Fahd Husain in an opinion in Dawn on can PML-N return to power? states that the party remains a political powerhouse in Punjab and can roar back into the game if it can somehow find the strength to resolve its internal contradictions. However, for this to happen someone has to make a policy and take a stand, one stand with someone leading the PML-N.

An editorial in The News International states that Pakistan should be looking at its foreign policy overall and working to ensure it can keep good ties with as many countries as possible. While this of course includes China, the US is also an important relationship.

An editorial in The Daily Times on the way forward for CPEC states that Pakistan must make sure that it is ahead of the curve on all important developments and milestones when it comes to CPEC, arguing anything less would amount to letting a very precious opportunity go begging.
 

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 3 August, National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf in an interview with Financial Times states that Pakistan has other options if US President Joe Biden continues to ignore the country’s leadership. He said, “The president of the United States hasn’t spoken to the prime minister of such an important country who the US itself says is make-or-break in some cases, in some ways, in Afghanistan — we struggle to understand the signal, right?” He added, “We’ve been told every time that… [the phone call] will happen, it’s technical reasons or whatever. But frankly, people don’t believe it,” adding, “If a phone call is a concession, if a security relationship is a concession, Pakistan has options.” Additionally, he said that his meeting with NAS Jake Sullivan had been “constructive” but that Pakistan would “reconsider” such media appearances if they were backfiring, saying the goal was “not to upset anybody [but to] put very forthrightly Pakistan’s view on the situation.”

Conversely, the US State Department, assured Islamabad that Washington recognises Pakistan’s vital role in restoring peace in Afghanistan and wants the country to play that role. US State Department’s spokesman Ned Price said, “Pakistan has much to gain and will continue to have a critical role, be well-positioned to have a role in supporting the outcome” in Afghanistan, saying that “not only the United States seeks, but that many of our international partners, many of the countries in the region also seek” this supporting role from Pakistan, adding, “so, we’ll continue to work and to communicate closely with our Pakistani partners on this.”

This statement is the latest setback to US-Pakistan relations. Previously, on 1 April 2021, US climate envoy John Kerry announced his visit to Abu Dhabi, New Delhi, and Dhaka in an effort to narrow differences on climate change goals to slow global warming, however, Pakistan was excluded from his trip. The development came after the announcement of a Leaders Summit on Climate hosted by US President Joe Biden, where Pakistan was initially excluded. The Pakistani’s were critical of these developments, PM Imran Khan stated that he was “puzzled at the cacophony” over Pakistan not being invited to a conference on climate change, adding, “My government's environment policies are driven solely by our commitment to our future generations of a clean & green Pakistan to mitigate the impact of climate change.”

Pakistan seeks a broad-based relationship with the US, one that goes beyond strategic concerns and the war in Afghanistan. However, this may not be the case as the Biden administration looks at Pakistan through the lens of Afghanistan, just as the Trump administration did. Although Pakistan has made it evident that it wants a different relationship with the US, the same is not being reciprocated. Thus, in the context of NSA Yusuf bold claim that it has “options” should be viewed in this light.

Looking deeper, Pakistan’s options are certainly not limited. Pakistan has cultivated deep ties with its “iron brother” China which remains to be one of its biggest advantages. Another option lies in the recent warming of ties between Pakistan and Russia for the larger geopolitical situation across the region is another advantage point for Pakistan. Additionally, the thaw in Saudi-Pak relations is another option for Pakistan. A larger option is in the potential of an alliance between China, Russia, Iran, Pakistan and Turkey hailed as CRIPT. Although this has not been formalised, the grouping would stand to be another advantageous option for Pakistan. Thus, Pakistan is not short on “option,” however, it is unlikely that Pakistan would do a 180 on the US.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Nadra chief proposes changes in i-voting system
On 3 August, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) chairman proposed certain changes to the i-voting system. Sources said that the chairman proposed a segregation of the Election Commission of Pakistan’s administrative duties and authority. The chairman maintained that this would ensure transparency and a complete audit trail. Meanwhile, on 4 August (today), a subcommittee of the cabinet committee has asked NADRA and IT expers to meet and prepare a report on the same. (Iftikhar A Khan, Nadra proposes major change in i-voting system,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

Cabinets calls on Navy, PAF to vacate state land
On 3 August, the federal cabinet asked the Pakistan Navy and Air Force to vacate state land, especially in Islamabad’s National Park area, on grounds that the land had been encroached upon. The Information Minister said that PM Imran Khan had “directed that action be taken against the influential and powerful people as well as organisations that had encroached state land and asked the naval and air force authorities to re-demarcate their boundaries.” Similarly, the Islamabad Capital Police was also directed to remove their checkposts from the area. (“Cabinet asks Navy, PAF to vacate state land,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

Many leaders who are not part of parliamentary system wants its disruption, says minister
On 3 August, the federal Information Minister said that the government would discuss electoral reforms with opposition members, but not with Nawaz Sharif. He said, “Many leaders of both the opposition parties, PML-N and PPP, are part of the parliamentary system and want its improvement, while Nawaz Sharif, Maryam Safdar, Fazlur Rehman and others, who are not part of the system, want to disrupt it for their personal benefit.” He opined that Shehbaz Sharif’s recent statement on the need to “move on” as a positive development. (“Talks with Shehbaz not Nawaz, says Fawad,” The News International, 4 August 2021)

Long and bumpy road ahead for PML-N, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn highlights the ongoing differences between the PML-N leadership and the party’s legislators. The editorial opines that Nawaz Sharif’s outrightly anti-establishment narrative, further propagated by Maryam Nawaz has become an irritant and several party members see the rhetoric as a reason for the loss in the recent Sialkot by-elections. It says that given the history of Pakistan, it is hard to imagine “a party returning to power without backing from the establishment.” It says though that Shahbaz Sharif has not lost hope of convincing the establishment, “road ahead for the PML-N is going to be long and bumpy no matter which narrative it follows.” (“PML-N’s dilemma,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Treasury members from Karachi criticise PPP government’s decision to impose lockdown
On 3 August, the treasury members from Karachi, in the National Assembly, came down on the provincial government for its decision to impose lockdown amid rising COVID-19 cases. MNAs from the MQM and the PTI warned of an “anarchy-like situation” if the government imposed its nine-day lockdown and also pledged support to the traders protesting against the same. However, a PPP MNA asked the treasury members to restrain from politicising the matter, reasoning that the issue directly concerned people’s health. (Amir Wasim, “Sindh govt under fire in NA over Karachi lockdown,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Editorial outlines challenges faced in addressing violence against women
An editorial in The News International says that despite the increased instances of violence against women, the authorities “are determined to hinder, rather than help, them (women).” The editorial outlines the number of times authorities have denied permission to women to protest and other hindrances created by bureaucrats; it also expresses disappointment that because the National Commission on the Status of Women did not have a chairperson, it had not been operational until one candidate was appointed recently. However, the government reportedly politicised the appointment. The editorial, therefore, says that given the increasing violence, the government should restrain from making the appointment controversial, and prioritise protection of women’s rights. (“A continuing nightmare,” The News International, 4 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
IMF, WB allocate funds to Pakistan to address pandemic situation
On 4 August, The Express Tribune reported that the IMF had approved a fresh location of USD 2.8 billion to Pakistan to boost the economy amid the pandemic. The allocation is estimated to  increase Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves to over USD 20 billion. The allocation is part of the IMF’s attempt to bring economies across the globe on a sustainable path. (Salman Siddiqui, “IMF approves $2.8b in fresh funds for Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 4 August 2021) Similarly, on 3 August, the World Bank reallocated USD 150 million to Pakistan for vaccine procurement. On the same day, the World Bank Country Director met with the Finance Minister and Minister for Economic Affairs. (“WB reallocates $150m to Pakistan for procuring Covid-19 vaccines,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

ON INDIA
FO reacts to Jaishankar’s statement regarding India’s presidency at UNSC
On 3 August, the Foreign Office spokesperson said, “It is highly hypocritical of a country that has systematically done away with any semblance of moderation, efforts for dialogue and abiding by international law, to project itself as the voice of these three.” He alleged that India’s institutions had been penetrated by the extremist Hindutva ideology and according to Dawn,  said that India needed to “set its own house in order before preaching moderation to the world.” The FO statement came after Indian’s External Affairs Minister said that India would be the voice of the above three at the UNSC. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Indian claim of acting as voice of moderation rejected,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
PM nominates Abdul Qayyum for “AJK PM”
On 4 August, the federal Information Minister announced that PM Imran Khan had nominated Abdul Qayyum Niazi for the post of “AJK Prime Minister.” Qayyum, is a MLA from Abbaspur Poonch, and is also the PTI’s Central Joint Secretary. (“PM Imran nominates Abdul Qayyum Niazi as PTI's candidate for AJK PM,” Dawn, 4 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn states that there is no sign of the Taliban showing any flexibility in their position and taking a more moderate stance, arguing that as the civil war in Afghanistan gets bloodier that are of concern, it is also the looming return of an old and repressive political and social order.

An opinion in Dawn argues that spending on education is not a cost but an investment that builds sustainable, inclusive and more equal societies. It says that establishing a resilient and prepared education system is the need of the hour in these times of Covid and beyond.

An editorial in Dawn argues that the uptick in the attacks on polio vaccinators’ security personnel’s is a tragic turn of events that once again threatens Pakistan’s efforts to eliminate the crippling disease from within its borders.

An opinion in The News International states that environmental deterioration due to human activity has achieved a worrisome level in Pakistan. It says, community-based development for establishing gardens, parks and other green spaces provides a framework that can and should be emulated in other districts and divisions of Pakistan for the wellbeing of the communities.

In Focus
By Apoorva

Pakistan’s social media is abuzz with the news of cancellation of the Aurat March, scheduled for 1 August, in Faisalabad after the authorities did not issue the permission to the organisers. One activist, claiming that the “Assistant commissioner Faisalabad threatened to arrest organisers and called young female students to intimidate them,” termed the move “a blatant example of how the state suppresses women's movements.” The AC Faisalabad allegedly told organisers that “rape does not happen without consent these days” and that “women aren't this oppressed in Pakistan.” Several Twitter users started a campaign against AC Faisalabad with the hashtag “#ShameOnACFsd.”

The march was organised in light of the “ongoing femicide” and to raise voices against “the brutal murders of women all over the country in the name of ‘isolated incidents’ and to make collective social change in the way women are treated.” Following the cancellation, the march organisers presented 20 demands online; they included the establishment of hotlines and cells led by women or transwomen, for reporting gender-based violence, laws to end to child marriage, centres for abuse victims and the like. 

However, this is not the first time that the Aurat March has faced backlash. From its inception in 2018, the Aurat March has been under scrutiny from various circles. On 8 March 2018 marking International Women’s day, the first Aurat March was launched drawing women from different walks of life. The march was conceptualised in Karachi, by the Women’s Action Forum, Women’s Democratic Front and Hum Aurtein, but spread to other cities eventually with an aim to address problems like sexual harassment, child abuse, unequal pay scales and more. Apart from the above, the march demands the right to bodily autonomy with taglines including “mera jism, meri marzi" (my body, my choice), thereby spreading the message that a woman’s body belongs to her and should not to be subjected to “self-harm or to damage cultural ethos, but to empower.”

The backlash against the Aurat March holds that Western ideologies are disrupting the cultural and moral values of the Pakistani society, thereby deeming the march un-Islamic. Rightwing parties including the JUI-F have led the criticism against the march. Similarly, in 2021, several organisations, including the Sunni Rabta Council, State Youth Parliament Muslim Talba Mahaz and Muttahida Talba Mahaz, held demonstrations against the Aurat March. However, the critics are not limited to parties with strong Islamic ideologies; the march has been targeted inside other political circles. For example, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly passed a resolution against the march in 2019. Parties like the PTI and PML-N have not openly associated with the cause, but have maintained that as long as it does not harm the cultural values of the society, the march should continue.

Meanwhile, it is commendable despite these roadblocks, the Aurat March has stood its ground and has continued to raise a collective voice against gender-based discrimination. Therefore, it is unlikely that the recent cancellation of the match or the behaviour meted out to the organisers will deter the cause and the organisers. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan State Oil makes the costliest purchase of LNG cargo
On 3 August, Dawn reported that the state-run Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has purchased a cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) at USD 20.055 per unit. Dawn states that this is not only the highest ever purchase in the country but perhaps the second highest summer purchase in the world. Additionally, this comes at a time when the government was justifying USD 15.5 per million British thermal units (MMBTU) purchases by Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL). (Khaleeq Kiani, “PSO makes costliest purchase of LNG cargo,” Dawn, 3 August 2021)

Another policeman on polio duty killed 
On 2 August, a policeman on polio duty was shot dead by unidentified attackers in the Atal Sharif area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Previously, on 1 August, two similar incidents were in which a policeman returning from polio duty was killed in an attack in an area on the outskirts of Peshawar and a cop was injured in the South Waziristan tribal district when police mobile guarding polio vaccinators hit a landmine. (Muhammad Irfan Mughal, “Second cop on polio duty martyred in as many days in KP,” Dawn, 3 August 2021)

Efforts to create a gulf between PML-N, masses won’t succeed, says Nawaz
On 2 August, Nawaz Sharif said that efforts to create a divide between the PML-N and masses will not succeed. He added that the struggle of the PML-N will not be just to win or lose some seats rather it is for getting rid of slavery of violators of the Constitution. (“Efforts to create gulf between PML-N, masses won’t succeed, says Nawaz,” The News International, 3 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Inflation slows to 8.4 per cent in July
On 2 August, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose to 8.4 per cent in July, stating that it was the lowest inflation rate in the past nine months despite the increase in prices of items that affect every household. Additionally, the PBS reported that the overall inflation rate slowed down in both urban and rural areas, with the inflation rate in urban areas remained at 8.7 per cent in July and rural areas at 8 per cent over the same month of the last year. (Shahbaz Rana, “Inflation slows to 8.4% in July,” The Express Tribune, 3 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
UK court orders NAB to pay USD 1.2 million to Broadsheet
On 3 August, Dawn reported that a London High Court has ordered the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and Pakistan government to pay USD 1.2 million to asset-recovery firm Broadsheet LLC by next week. If this payment is not made by the government of Pakistan and NAB, the enforcement of a third-party debt order, which allows a creditor to take the money owed to them directly from whoever has the money will be initiated. (“UK court orders NAB to pay $1.2m to Broadsheet,” Dawn, 3 August 2021)

Arab Parliament president commends Pakistan’s role for Muslim causes
On 2 August, the President of the Arab Parliament met with FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi and appreciated Pakistan’s role for Muslim causes. The Foreign Office said, “This is the first-ever visit of a delegation from the Arab Parliament.” During the meeting, the two sides underscored the need for a collective approach by the Muslim Ummah to help resolve political, social and other issues confronting the Muslim nations. (“Arab Parliament president hails Pakistan’s role for Muslim causes,” The Express Tribune, 3 August 2021)

ON FATF
Pakistan addresses 26 out of 27 action items of FATF
On 2 August, the National Assembly could not conduct its business due to lack of quorum and the session was adjourned until 3 August, as the opposition protested over the absence of Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin who was supposed to inform the lawmakers on the issues related to the FATF and the IMF. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Muhammad Khan declared on the floor of the National Assembly that Pakistan had completed 26 out of 27 points for exclusion from the FATF’s grey list, adding, “We will award sentences to individuals according to our own laws and constitution. Now, foreign dictation will not be allowed on the issue of someone’s prosecution.” (“Pakistan addresses 26 out of 27 action items of FATF,” The Express Tribune, 3 August 2021) (Amir Wasim, “Govt slammed over ‘failure’ to exit FATF grey list,” Dawn, 3 August 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan has no favourites in Afghanistan, says FO
On 2 August, the Foreign Office in response to Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s recent comments on the Islamic State (IS) and Afghan Taliban being "misconstrued" stated, "We have repeatedly stated that Pakistan has no favourites in Afghanistan. We see all sides in the conflict as Afghans who need to decide about their future themselves. We will continue to play a constructive facilitation role in the Afghan peace process." Meanwhile, Dawn reported that a senior official confirmed that Pakistan has given up its plan to host Afghan Peace Conference involving Afghanistan’s political leadership. (Mariana Baabar, “Pakistan has no favourites in Afghanistan: FO,” The News International, 3 August 2021) (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Pakistan shelves plan to hold Afghan leaders’ moot,” Dawn, 3 August 2021)

ON CPEC
Five CPEC power projects face delays
On 2 August, the Pak-China Relations Steering Committee directed the finalisation of a uniform policy framework within a month for extension in commercial operation dates (CODs) of five power projects of about 3600 megawatts being set up under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This comes as several projects under the CPEC are facing delays due to the pandemic and surplus generation capacity. (Khaleeq Kiani, “5 CPEC power projects face delays,” Dawn, 3 August 2021)

ON PAKISTAN OCCUPIED KASHMIR
PTI set to form “AJK” government after winning three more reserved seats
On 2 August, the PTI won all three reserved seats in the “Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly's” raising its strength in the 53-member house to 32. This comes after the PTI emerged as the single-largest party after clinching 26 direct seats in July 25 elections. The oath-taking of the newly-elected members is scheduled to place in the assembly’s inaugural session on 3 August. (“PTI set to form AJK govt after clinching three more reserved seats,” The Express Tribune, 3 August 2021)

ON INDIA
FM Qureshi asks India not to put the region’s peace at stake
On 2 August, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi asked India to stop putting at stake the region’s peace. He said, “We want India not to play the role of a spoiler by extending support to such factions,” adding, “Pakistan desires peace in Afghanistan and is concerned about the deteriorating situation there.” (“FM asks India not to put region’s peace at stake,” The Express Tribune, 3 August 2021)

An opinion in Dawn states that Afghan women will not remain silent anymore. It quotes, “Women have more experience than what they had in the 1990s, and there’s more awareness in the community about women’s rights. This isn’t limited to the elites; it’s now more widespread at the grassroots level.”

An opinion in Dawn states that it’s not all one-way traffic when it comes to CPEC, it argues that it’s been widely assumed that China was always going to secure the most benefits, however, Pakistan has also enjoyed some success in securing its objectives in relation to CPEC.

An editorial in Dawn on the government’s plans to accord a provisional provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan states that this issue should be above partisan politics and all political stakeholders should take ownership of it.

An editorial in The Express Tribune states that the last few weeks and months have seen the PML-N being battered to the core. It says, the PML-N needs a thorough in-house dialogue before making it a public manifesto, adding that it is time for them to rise above partisan politics and evolve a pro-national narrative.

An editorial in The News International on the Single National Curriculum states that the government must focus on providing fair and equal opportunities for all children and youth to receive high-quality education as just enforcing an SNC will not fulfill the promise of a uniform education system.

In Focus
By Abigail Miriam Fernandez

On 28 July, the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) defeated Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz in Sialkot’s PP-38 by-polls, with PTI candidate Ahsan Saleem Baryar securing 60,588 votes while PML-N candidate Tariq Subhani securing 53,471 votes. The seat had fallen vacant after PML-N's Akhtar Subhani passed away. A total of 165 polling stations were set up in the constituency out of which 68 have been declared sensitive and 30 highly sensitive. Additionally, 3000 police personnel and 500 Punjab Rangers security personnel were deployed at all the polling stations in the constituency. There were eight candidates contesting for the seat, however, the real competition was between the PTI and PML-N candidates.

After the elections, Free and Fair Election Network (Fafen) observed illegal campaigning and canvassing for the PP-38 by-election around the majority of the inspected polling stations. In its report, Fafen notes a relatively higher incidence of violations of electoral laws, rules and codes of conduct with an average of two violations per observed polling station. Meanwhile, PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal said, “The present government is a result of rigged polls and it has nothing to do with politics and political traditions,” adding that the “controversial and rigged polls in AJK and Sialkot had proved to the world that in 2018 a drama in the name of democracy was staged and Imran Khan Niazi was the main character of it.” Conversely, Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar said that truth and honesty have prevailed in the recently held Sialkot by-poll, adding that PTI’s continued success in “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” and Sialkot elections show the public trusts the government’s policies.

The PTI’s win comes three months after a defeat in the by-elections in Daska tehsil of Sialkot district. This victory along with the win in the “AJK” elections has given a boost to the morale of the party’s supporters and coalition partners. Additionally, the victory in Sialkot is a change in fortunes for the PTI who has had several by-election defeats in Punjab. An editorial in Dawn notes, “the PTI’s recent electoral victories are a reminder that the fundamentals of the political chessboard that was set in the 2018 elections remains in place to a fairly large extent.” Similarly, Fahd Husain writes, “the Sialkot verdict is not just about a provincial by-election from the city; it is a validation of the PTI’s growing political fortunes two years before the general elections; it is a corroboration of the durability of the 2018 consensus.”

The reason behind the PML-N defeat in the by-elections stems from its internal tussles and PTI’s intelligent selection of candidates. The divide within the PML-N with Shehbaz Sharif on one side and Maryam Nawaz on the other has confused its voters and supporters. With both sides holding opposing political narratives, the impact of this difference is started affecting the party in the electoral arena. This ambiguity of whether they want to pursue an aggressive policy or a more careful one has cost the PML-N its defeat. Another reason for the PML-N defeat lies in PTI’s selection of the candidate. Ahsan Baryar was the same candidate that was defeated by the PML-N in the previous by-election. He is the son of PML-Q leader Muhammad Saleem Baryar, who did not field its candidate but supported Baryar, paving the way for his victory. Additionally, the PTI this time ensured better campaigns, better campaigners, better organisation and better constituency management in the heart of PML-N territory something that the PML-N is known for doing. 

The PTI’s recent wins is an expression of the party’s growing political gains and a divided PML-N as well as the larger opposition before the general elections. The opposition has so far not shown any or come up with a concrete strategy against the ruling PTI. At this rate, the opposition would not be able to dent the PTI’s political standing before the general elections in two years. 

In Brief
INTERNAL
CDA serves show-cause notice to societies and buildings in E-11
On 1 August, the Capital Development Authority, in light of the urban flooding in E-11, issued show-cause notices to five housing societies in the area for violating building by-laws. The flooding was reportedly caused by a housing society blocking a natural stream. The CDA also issued notices “to 18 residential and commercial buildings in E-11 for illegal constructions and violation of building by-laws.” (“E-11 housing societies served show-cause notices,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

Editorial outlines challenges regarding Digital Pakistan
An editorial in The News International says that despite the promotion of Digital Pakistan, progress regarding the same is taking place at “snail’s pace.” The editorial, outlining the recent approval to auction spectrum for internet and mobile companies, says that much of this should have been carried out in the early stages of the pandemic in 2020, as there was a sudden shift to the online mode. It acknowledges the telecom companies’ woes regarding the pricing of spectrum, but opines that the end-user should not be suffering due to “high charges, poor service, and lack of access.” Further, it also calls on the government for the following; to ensure gender parity in access to the internet; restrain from frequent bans on social media applications; rethink levying taxes on services like mobile calls. The editorial says that if the above are not addressed, Digital Pakistan will be a slow process. (“Delaying Digital Pakistan,” The News International, 2 August 2021)

Editorial urges Sindh HC to address forced conversions
An editorial in Dawn, referring to a recent court verdict on Reena Meghwar, highlights the issue of forced conversions. The editorial hails the court’s decision which allowed Reena to reunite with the family, but says that the ordeal of conversions is not an isolated issue. It cites that around “1,000 girls from minority communities mostly in Sindh are forcibly converted to Islam every year” in Pakistan. It opines that though most of the girls are underage, authorities hesitate “to take action as the perpetrators often have connections in high circles.” Therefore, it calls on the Sindh High Court to address the regressive sections of society who had earlier objected to a bill to prevent forced conversions. (“Against their will,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

Aurat March Faisalabad cancelled after authorities deny NOC
On 1 August, the Aurat March in Faisalabad was cancelled on grounds that the administration had not issued a NOC to the organisers. The march had been organised against the “ongoing femicide” and to bring to light “the brutal murders of women” across Pakistan. The march was aimed at highlighting that the incidents are not isolated and “to make collective social change in the way women are treated.” The Aurat March Faisalabad presented 20 demands on Twitter including hotlines and cells led by women or transwomen, for reporting gender-based violence, laws to end to child marriage, and the like. On Facebook, Aurat March Faisalabad, “It’s utterly sad that the system reacted against a peaceful and democratic March...The administration seemed horrified by the popularity and solidarity by the peoples of the city and denied providing any sort of space and protection for a peaceful demonstration, rather, resorted to harassment and threat to the organizers...” (“Faisalabad ‘Aurat March’ cancelled ‘under pressure from administration’,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two policemen, one soldier killed in three separate incidents
On 1 August, a policeman was killed in South Waziristan when a police mobile protecting polio workers hit a landmine; he was returning from polio duty. In a separate incident, a policeman from the Frontier Reserve Police was reportedly killed by unknown assailants in Peshawar. Police said they were probing into different possibilities, including that of a targeted killing. In another incident, a soldier was killed in a militant attack in South Waziristan. Dawn reports that since 30 July, three soldiers have been killed in North and South Waziristan. (“Policeman, soldier martyred in Peshawar, South Waziristan,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

ECONOMY
Exports to Italy increase by 49 per cent
On 2 August, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s exports to Italy had witnessed a 49 per cent growth after being recorded at USD 786 million in FY 2020-21, despite the economic downturn in Italy due to the pandemic. The news report says that Italy has the largest Pakistani diaspora in the EU and in the outgoing fiscal year, remittances from Italy amounted to USD 601 million, against USD 369 million of FY20, thereby recording a 66 per cent increase. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Pakistan’s exports to Italy record 49pc growth,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Opinions analyse role of laws and state in crimes against women
An opinion in Dawn attempts to define sexual harassment at workplace and its scope; the author says that behaviour stemming from deep-rooted gender-based discrimination which paves the way for abusive and hostile work enviro­nment should also be included in the definition. She cites Supreme Court judgement which is consistent with the above argument. Further, she says SC in one of its judgments said the Protection against Harassment of Women in the Workplace Act 2010 observed, “rather than addressing the issue of harassment in all its manifestations … is a myopic piece of legislation that focused only on a minute faction of harassment.” (Sara Malkani, “Defining sexual harassment,” Dawn, 2 August 2021) An opinion in The News International observes that education has role in shaping societies that commit crimes against women. The author says that beginning from school, aggressive, violent traits in heroes have been glorified thereby promoting patriarchy. He says, in Pakistan, such “a common streak of masculinity and patriarchy” is evident across the class divide. Therefore, he observes that the state has a role in promoting this masculine superiority in children, and therefore calls for rethinking and says many, including superior officials need a reeducation. He concludes, “We need to alter the entire focus of education and media to promote decent behaviour towards all, especially women.” (Dr Naazir Mahmood, “Countering violence against women,” The News International, 2 August 2021)

EXTERNAL
FO reacts to former Canadian minister’s remarks on Pakistan and Taliban
On 1 August, the Foreign Office condemned a former Canadian minister’s remarks wherein the latter had tweeted, “Taliban fighters waiting to cross the border from Pakistan to Afghanistan… anyone still denying that Pakistan is engaged in an ‘act of aggression’ against Afghanistan is complicit in proxy war & war crimes.” To this, the FO said, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted comments by former Canadian minister Chris Alexander, making unfounded & misleading assertions about…Pakistan’s role in #AfghanPeaceProcess. Such remarks betray a complete lack of understanding of the issue as well as ignorance of facts on ground.” (“FO condemns former Canadian minister’s remarks about Pakistan,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

Pakistan, US to work towards peace in Afghanistan, says NSA
On 2 August, The News International reported NSA Moeed Yusuf’s visit to the US. In a briefing to Pakistani media in the US, he said that Islamabad and Washington will work towards ensuring lasting peace in Afghanistan. He said, “We have repeatedly said that Afghan soil is being used against Pakistan which needs to be stopped,” adding, “Besides there may be some groups which can target other countries as well which is a matter of concern for the United States too.” (“Pakistan, US agree to continue with Afghan peace process: Moeed,” The News International, 2 August 2021)

ON INDIA
Pakistan will ensure India makes no move “against Pakistan’s core interests:” Munir Akram
On 1 August, Pakistan Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram said that Pakistan will carefully observe India during the latter’s presidency at the UNSC to “ensure that no moves that are against Pakistan’s core interests are allowed to succeed.” He said, “India will obviously use its SC Presidency to promote its own narrative on various issues, including terrorism and UN reform.” (Anwar Iqbal, “Pakistan to carefully watch India’s UNSC conduct,” Dawn, 2 August 2021)

Maleeha Lodhi in an opinion in Dawn states that Pakistan’s security is inextricably tied to Afghanistan. Prolonged strife in its neighbour will expose Pakistan to security threats that it has dealt with in the past at a heavy cost in lives and social and economic consequences.

An opinion in Dawn on ‘Life after IMF’ states that in order for the IMF to make tangible value addition in the lives of those residing in the developing world, there need to be some serious reforms. It says that the institution would perhaps need to be redesigned in order to be made more representative as well as more accountable with respect to its policies.

An editorial critical of ‘row over NCSW’ the states parliament must demonstrate the political will to review the law under which the National Commission on the Status of Women was established and ensure that the fully empowered and autonomous Commission that was promised comes into existence. The women of Pakistan deserve nothing less.

An editorial in Dawn states that the sooner the government removes the impediments blocking the private sector’s involvement in the LNG market the better it will be for consumers and the national exchequer, arguing that the private sector will bring gas at cheaper rates without causing financial risk to the government.

An opinion in The News International states Balochistan is not missing the boat. It is drowning. It argues that the state can only earn back public trust of the Baloch rural poor communities through improved public services at the grassroots level.

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that Pakistan has been caught in an inflationary spiral, having a daunting double-digit inflation rate, it argues, the government’s future success may still be seen by their use of anti-inflationary policies and their efficiency.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on ‘politicising cricket’ alleges that it is no news that India does not want to maintain cricketing ties with Pakistan, however, it argues that sports has the potential to act as an effective diplomatic tool to bring hostile nations closer cannot be denied.