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  • Thanksgiving Day: APAG distributes Halal Turkeys among needy families

    New York: As the annual Thanksgiving Day is being celebrated across the United States today,  the American-Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) distributed more than three hundred halal turkeys amongst needy families in New York.

    APAG set up its stalls in New York on Thanksgiving Day, the festival of sharing happiness as the organization distributed Halal turkey along with fresh fruits, vegetables, and essential food items among more than three hundred families.

    Speaking on the occasion, Assemblyman David Weprin and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said, “Be it tough times or any festival, we have always seen APAG bring joy to the community.”

    There were a large number of needy people outside the stalls of APAG, on this occasion.

    APAG President Ali Rashid thanked everyone and said that he would continue all such activities in the future.

    Volunteers of the American-Pakistani Advocacy Group also actively participated in the Thanksgiving Day event.

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  • ACMW distributes Halal Turkey among needy families as part of Thanksgiving Day

    New York: The American Council of Minority Women (ACMW), an organization consisting of Pakistani women in New York has distributed halal turkey among as many as five hundred needy families, as part of the Thanksgiving Day, being observed across the United States, Today.

    The American Council of Minority Women, in partnership with Islamic Relief of the USA, celebrated the third annual Day of Thanksgiving on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn.

    A large number of needy people from different areas gathered outside ACMW to get halal turkey and other items.

    On this occasion, the chairperson of the organization, Baza Ruhi said that they are trying to contribute their part while providing assistance to the people, who cannot afford to eat halal turkey throughout the year.

    The distribution ceremony of halal turkey was attended by Pakistan Consulate staff, ACMW team members, volunteers and staff from Councilwoman Rita Joseph’s office who expressed their happiness to participate in the process of sharing happiness.

    Thanksgiving Day participants included a large number of women and older adults. The staff of the American Council of Minority Women compiled lists before distributing the halal turkey to ensure fairness.

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  • NYC Comptroller Lander to Tesla Board: Musk support of Antisemitism invites far reaching reputational damage

    New York: New York City Comptroller Brad Lander wrote to Tesla’s Board of Directors expressing concern regarding CEO Elon Musk’s explicit support of antisemitic statements, which have not yet been removed, and the Board’s silence about the comments.

    The New York City retirement systems have approximately $946 million in Tesla shares as of September 30, 2023.

    “As CEO, Mr. Musk is the face of Tesla, and his behavior here, for better or worse, directly reflects on the Company,” the letter reads. “As Chair of the Board, you have a responsibility to all shareholders to hold Mr. Musk accountable for actions when they harm the Company and contravene the Company’s Code of Business Ethics. If the Board takes no action against Mr. Musk, it sends a message to all Tesla employees that the behavior of the company’s CEO is unassailable, the Company’s Code of Business Ethics is toothless, and employees are free to take any action or utter any words, no matter how hateful or harmful.”

    On November 15, Musk stated that an antisemitic post on X was “the actual truth.” Because the dangerous language in the post was written by Musk it poses a threat to all his portfolio companies including Tesla. On November 16, X CEO Linda Yaccarino condemned antisemitism on the platform but Musk’s original comments still remain active.

    The impact has already presented a financial and reputational impact, with condemnation by the White House and major advertisers pulling advertising, including but not limited to Apple, Disney, IBM, Warner Bros, Lionsgate, Sony Pictures and Paramount on the platform X. Lander insisted that shareholders, as well as employees, customers, and decent people everywhere are counting on the board to take action and that Tesla should not condone this troubling behavior. The behavior stands contrary to Tesla’s Code of Business Ethics, which reads in part: “Tesla has been, is and always aspires to be a Do the Right Thing company—in other words, engaging in conduct that you and your family would be proud of.”

    Musk’s social media usage has drawn negative attention to his portfolio companies in the past. Prior behavior led to a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over his posts regarding taking Tesla private.

    In the correspondence, Comptroller Lander also notes that the Tesla Code of Business Ethics has a specific section for CEO and Senior Financial Officers, which reads:

    “The Board of Directors shall determine, or designate appropriate persons to determine, appropriate actions to be taken in the event of violations of the Code of Business Ethics or of these additional procedures by the CEO and Tesla’s senior financial officers. Such actions shall be reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote accountability for adherence to the Code of Business Ethics and to these additional procedures, and shall include written notices to the individual involved that the Board has determined that there has been a violation, censure by the Board, demotion or re-assignment of the individual involved, suspension with or without pay or benefits (as determined by the Board) and termination of the individual’s employment.”

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  • Drivers, NYTWA, Attorneys termed the Jury Verdict – ‘a major victory’ in an ongoing class action against the Taxi & Limousine Commission

    New York: On Thursday afternoon, taxi and for-hire-vehicle drivers in a massive class action against New York City won the first test case trial for 10 drivers whose licenses were suspended based on arrest and not given a fair opportunity to challenge their suspensions, awarding these drivers $190,000.

    There are more than 8,000 individual class members in this case. Friday morning, November 17th, drivers, attorneys and organizational plaintiff New York Taxi Workers Alliance will hold a press conference to discuss this major development.

    Triumphant Drivers and Attorneys held Press Conference to brief media on major developments in Taxi and For-Hire-Vehicle Drivers’ Class Action on Friday outside the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Courthouse, United State District Court, 500 Pearl St, New York, NY

    Drivers involved in the lawsuit were Bhairavi Desai, New York Taxi Workers Alliance Executive Director Attorneys Shannon Liss-Riordan, Daniel Ackman, David Goldberg, Bradley Manewith

    Over the last 20 years, nearly 20,000 NYC taxi and for-hire-vehicle drivers licensed by the TLC were suspended based on arrests alone– before the drivers were convicted or even tried and without any consideration of the driver’s record or the facts underlying the arrest. A group of drivers and NYTWA filed a lawsuit in 2006 challenging the constitutionality of the TLC’s practices. In 2019, a federal appeals court found the TLC violated the drivers’ constitutional rights by not providing them a fair hearing to allow them to get their licenses reinstated if doing so would not threaten public safety.

    After that, a federal district court certified this case as a class action including drivers who were suspended based on an arrest between 2003 and 2020.

    More than 8,000 class members sought a hearing to recover damages, and the court set the first test case trial that was held this week. Today, a federal jury awarded the 10 plaintiffs in the test case trial a total of $190,000.

    Attorney Shannon Liss-Riordan, said: “This is an incredible affirmation by a jury of their peers that the hard-working taxi drivers of New York City were wrongly denied their constitutional rights and need to be made whole from the financial impact they suffered as a result. It’s now 10 down, and 8,290 to go, and we look forward to obtaining justice for all of these drivers who were unconstitutionally deprived of their right to their livelihoods without a fair chance to show they were able to continue safely working while resolving their criminal charges.”

    Attorney David Goldberg, said: “Today’s verdict, rendered unanimously by 8 fair-minded New Yorkers, is an important, but long overdue, step toward justice. The practices at issue in this case are cruel and pointless. That the City’s government has, for decades, maintained and defended them is shameful —and rooted in failure to respect the humanity of tens of thousands of hard-working immigrant New Yorkers who toil daily, under harsh conditions, to provide services that make life easier for the City’s most privileged residents.”

    “With great power comes great responsibility. Voltaire said it. Spider-Man said it and I say it, too. I think the TLC is starting to get that message, but slowly, “ said attorney Dan Ackman, who first filed the lawsuit in 2006.

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  • Influx of immigrants: NYC may face $7 billion budget deficit in a couple of years

    New York: New York City Mayor Eric Adams has warned of a potentially serious economic crisis in the near future due to the unprecedented influx of immigrants, saying if the federal government does not provide funds as required, the New York City government may face a deficit of $7 billion, that may prompt the administration to go for considerable cuts in the budget of some key civic departments.

    Adams revealed this at a press conference at City Hall. He said that more than 124,000 immigrants have arrived in the city, and the number of immigrants is increasing by 2000 to 4,000 every week.

    “Considering the situation, it is estimated that if this grim situation continues for one and a half years, we will need funds of $12 billion during the next two years to deal with the problems. If the federal government does not provide funds as required, the city government may face a deficit of $7 billion,”  the Mayor said.

    The mayor added that the city administration is following the federal government’s policy for the arrival of immigrants and their care, but due to the unusual arrival of refugees, the budget of the city government has become unbalanced.

    If necessary, the police department, fire department, and sanitation department may face cuts next year. Therefore, the federal government has a responsibility to help New York City in the current situation.

    The mayor was asked if the civic services are being affected by the budget cut, so will he contact the federal government, the mayor said that the consultation on the whole situation is going on.

    Every time I have been to Washington, I have presented the problems caused by the unprecedented influx of immigrants like limited resources, budget imbalances, and requested them to resolve problems.

    He said the Federal government should play its role for the influx of immigrants.

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  • Mayor Adams appoints Jeffrey Garcia as office of Nightlife ED, signs bills to bolster nightlife industry

    New York: New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of hospitality industry veteran Jeffrey Garcia to lead the Office of Nightlife (ONL) in its new home at the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS).

    Joined by SBS Commissioner Kevin D. Kim and business leaders, Mayor Adams also announced actions to support small businesses through his “Small Business Forward” initiative, better connect nightlife establishments to SBS resources, and reduce financial burdens on local businesses. These steps come as part of Mayor Adams’ “Working People’s Tour,” continuing to create jobs and power New York City’s economic recovery after the city set an recovered all of the nearly 1 million jobs lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Finally, Mayor Adams signed three pieces of legislation — Intro 687-A, Intro. 845-A, and Intro. 1083-A that implement dozens of regulatory reforms to help New York City’s small businesses, move ONL under SBS, and provide New Yorkers with more information to make healthy food choices.

    “From the dance venues of Brooklyn to the Latin clubs of Queens and everything in between, nightlife has always been part of what makes New York City so vibrant and unique. Today, we are taking steps not only to bolster the businesses that make nightlife special, but also to usher in a new chapter in our efforts to support the industry,” said Mayor Adams. “By transferring the Office of Nightlife to SBS and cutting red tape for the nightlife industry, this legislation will make sure that nightlife establishments get the resources they need to thrive and help our economy grow to new heights. With the appointment of Jeffrey Garcia — an experienced entrepreneur and hospitality veteran who has long advocated for minority-owned businesses — we are also ensuring that the Office of Nightlife has the strong leadership needed to uplift nightlife businesses across the city.”

    “This administration is focused on making it easier for this city’s small businesses to grow and thrive, and the bills passed today exemplify that. With the passage of Intro. 845, we have now cleared the path for over 100 reforms to be implemented that will reduce fines and fees for this city’s small business community, saving them millions of dollars a year. And with the move of the Office of Nightlife to SBS under Jeffrey Garcia’s leadership, the city’s nightlife community will have a fierce advocate in their corner and access to more resources than ever before,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria-Torres Springer. “Thank you to the Council for the partnership, and congratulations to Executive Director Jeffrey Garcia. I am confident that under his leadership ONL will flourish in its mission of elevating the city’s nightlife and businesses in every neighborhood across the entire city at a critical time for the industry.”

     

    “New York’s 25,000 nightlife and hospitality establishments are more than just engines of economic growth — they are part of the fabric that makes up the city,” said SBS Commissioner Kim. “At SBS, ONL will be able to help bars and restaurants across New York City grow and expand while also fostering positive relationships in their respective communities. All of us at SBS are excited to work with Executive Director Jeffrey Garcia and his team in our shared mission of lifting up New Yorkers and building the ‘City of Yes’ for small business.”

    “As the son of a single mom from the Dominican Republic, born and raised in Washington Heights, I am grateful to Mayor Adams and Commissioner Kim for entrusting me with this opportunity to serve my city as executive director of ONL. This is my dream job,” said ONL Executive Director Garcia. “My family knew struggle, but we had a strong foundation of hard work and service, which I brought with me as I rose through the ranks at the NYPD, opened my own hospitality businesses, and went on to elevate minority-owned bars and restaurants across New York as an advocacy leader. I am looking forward to this transition to SBS, as ONL grows to provide more resources to support the nightlife industry across New York City.”

    “Today signifies a major milestone as we advance two bills with a clear mission: cutting red tape and streamlining regulations for small businesses through codifying portions of the mayor’s ‘Small Business Forward’ executive order and providing crucial assistance to our nightlife establishments,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin, chair, Committee on Small Business. “As the former MOME commissioner who created the Office of Nightlife, I believe it is a logical shift of the Office of Nightlife to the Department of Small Business Services for enhanced small business support. Thank you, Mayor Adams, for signing my bills into law.”

    Intro. 687-A — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Keith Powers — requires chain restaurants with 15 or more locations to prominently post added sugars to menus, allowing New Yorkers to make informed decisions about their health. The new law builds on the Mayor’s Office of Food Policy’s work to increase food security; promote access to and consumption of healthy foods; and support economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and equity in the food system.

    Intro. 845-A — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Menin — implements more than 30 regulatory reforms that stem from Mayor Adams’ Executive Order 2 “Small Business Forward” initiative, which required city agencies to review existing business regulations and ensure local businesses face fewer fines and penalties without jeopardizing public health or safety. These reforms were identified by Mayor Adams, Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, and SBS Commissioner Kim to save small businesses time and money when navigating city regulations.

    Intro. 1083-A — also sponsored by New York City Councilmember Menin — and Executive Order 37 will integrate ONL under SBS. ONL’s move to SBS will help broaden the office’s reach and deepen its impact on New York City nightlife businesses, while doubling down on promoting public safety and addressing quality-of-life concerns. The move will also foster a strong industry partnership between nightlife and city government, ensuring that more nightlife businesses directly benefit from SBS services, such as connections to affordable financing, free legal assistance, a pipeline of qualified New Yorkers looking for work, and the NYC Business Express Service Team program, which helps businesses expedite permits and licenses, accelerating the process of opening a business, and more.

    Small business creation has boomed since Mayor Adams took office, with approximately one in seven businesses in New York City launched since January 2022. In that time, the Adams administration has delivered on the promise of Small Business Forward, developed the MyCity Business site, created the historic NYC Small Business Opportunity Fund, and undertaken additional efforts to save small businesses millions of dollars in avoided violations, fines, and fees. In addition to dozens of reforms implemented over the last year through agency rulemaking and policy changes, the full savings to small businesses is estimated at close to $8.9 million annually.

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  • SAPM Malik paves way for enhanced collaboration in Saudi Arabia’s job market

    ISLAMABAD: Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Jawad Sohrab Malik, focused on developing the Pakistani workforce in KSA during his interactions with Saudi employers and human resource executives on his visit to the kingdom, according to APP.

    In Saudi Arabia, he concentrates on solidifying connections and optimizing opportunities for the Pakistani community.

     

     

    Jawad Sohrab Malik engaged in in-depth discussions with Saudi employers and human resource management executives in Jeddah.

    During the meetings, SAPM emphasized the crucial role of human resource development aligned with the requirements of the Saudi market and economy.

    He highlighted that the paramount value lies in close coordination and a strong exchange of ideas among stakeholders in overseas employment to effectively leverage opportunities for Pakistani manpower in the Saudi Arabian market.

    The SAPM also engaged with the Pakistani community at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah. Prominent community members and business leaders discussed a variety of issues, including challenges encountered by expatriates, during their interaction with SAPM.

    The SAPM assured the community, affirming the Pakistani government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Pakistani community in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other nations.

    Malik shared the ongoing endeavours of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis to address the needs of overseas Pakistanis, particularly those residing in the kingdom, and ensure their well-being.

    The gathering in Jeddah saw a diverse presence from the Pakistani diaspora, including businessmen, professionals, and entrepreneurs. SAPM’s visit to KSA is a deliberate step towards bolstering cooperation in manpower employment between the two countries.

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  • CPEC has transformational impact on socio-economic landscape in Pakistan: Ahsan Iqbal

    BEIJING: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has emerged as a transformative force reshaping the socio-economic transformational impact on the lives of people in Pakistan, former Minister for Planning and Special Initiative Ahsan Iqbal said.
    “When we started CPEC in 2013, Pakistan was suffering from a major energy crisis. We were experiencing power shortages for 16 to 18 hours per day, and we had major infrastructural bottlenecks with very poor physical infrastructure,” he said in an exclusive interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), as reported by APP.
    And because of a lack of electricity, energy was not there, and industrial and agricultural production was suffering, which meant there was more unemployment, which was a major contributor to more poverty, he added.
    Ahsan Iqbal said that through the CPEC, in three years, more than $25 billion of investment came into Pakistan that modernized infrastructure and created new roads to connect many regions. It provided more than 8,000 megawatts of new power, which helped the country overcome power shortages.
    “As we had energy in the economy, our agriculture and industrial outputs improved, which brought more employment for thousands of young people and also helped them come out of poverty,” he added.
    About special economic zones, he said that nine special economic zones have been identified in different regions of Pakistan and added, “All regions are taking part and taking benefit from CPEC, which is another indicator that it is a very inclusive project and it does not leave anyone behind.”
    “We are now working with China to set up industries in these special economic zones, through which both Pakistan and China can work together and export goods to third countries,” he added.
    “Gwadar Economic Zone is developing very fast, but in addition to that, nine more economic zones are being developed in Pakistan, in which we hope that investment that will come from China will help us in industrialization and that will be a major contributor towards structural transformation of the economy.”
    He opined that it would create more jobs, and most importantly, Pakistan needs to improve its export performance, adding, “We hope that with Chinese technology and investment and their access to global supply chains, we will be able to improve our exports as well.”
    Terming CPEC a game changer for Pakistan and the region, he said that the future of economic development lies in regional cooperation.
    “We can create an economic market for a huge benefit for three billion people living in South Asia, China, Central Asia, and the Middle East through regional connectivity,” he added.
    He said that therefore, programs like CPEC and BRI could help people eliminate poverty and unemployment and realize the dream of shared prosperity as well as people-to-people contact.
    Responding to a question about the next stage of CPEC, he stressed the need to ensure an environment of peace, stability, and continuity of policies in Pakistan.
    “We have a very young population that is now getting education and skills relevant to the future economy, and it provides a very economical human resource for investments in the industry and technology sectors, particularly,” he added.
    Ahsan Iqbal said that the government has launched a very ambitious program to stabilize Pakistan’s economy and restore the confidence of the business community by following policies initiated in 2013 with full force and vigor.
    He said that a Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) brings all the government agencies and all the government branches, whether federal or provincial, whether civil or military, under one roof to attract foreign direct investment.
    “The SIFC is a very new initiative that the government has undertaken, and we hope that it will encourage foreign investors to come to Pakistan,” he added.
    To yet another question about debt burden, he said, “If the previous government had promoted CPEC enough, we would have seen lots of progress in industrial cooperation. So, slow progress on CPEC actually contributed to the slowing down of the economy.”
    Very high prices of commodities, particularly oil and gas, also created problems for Pakistan’s economy. None of these problems have anything to do with CPEC or BRI. Because most of the investments that came to Pakistan under CPEC were at a very concessional rate, he added.

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  • Thanksgiving Day: COPO distributes Halal Turkey, chicken amongst needy ones

    New York: As Thanksgiving Day is fast approaching, the Council of People’s Organization (COPO) distributed halal turkey and chicken to hundreds of needy people on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn.

    A large number of needy citizens lined up to receive the thanksgiving gifts as COPO head Mohammad Rizvi along with various American legislators and politicians distributed halal turkey and chicken to 650 people.

    At the Thanksgiving Day distribution, Fred Kurzman, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Community Affairs Unit, also mingled with the needy people and distributed essential items from COPO’s stalls.

    He said that COPO gathered people of different nationalities in one place and made a bouquet as a symbol of unity.

    New York State Assembly Member Robert Carroll, Woman Member Farah Louis and others also participated on this occasion.

    The American officials also distributed turkey, chicken, fresh vegetables and fruits among the participants with their own hands.

    They said that for any event or festival, all communities always come together, that’s the beauty of this city and that’s what we need.

    Various community members also volunteered and worked hard with COPO on Thanksgiving Day.

    Councilwoman Farah Louis and others said that it was a pleasure to see people of different races, nationalities and religions working together here today, it is an example for all.

    While distributing daily necessities to the needy, everyone took care not to hurt any self-esteem and self-respect of the citizens.

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  • No space for intolerance, extreme behavior against anyone: COAS

    RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Friday said there was no space for intolerance and extreme behavior by against anyone, particularly against minorities and vulnerable segments of society, APP reported. 

    He made these remarks in an interaction with leading Islamic scholars (Ulema and Mashaikh) of all schools of thought here at the General Headquarters, an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.

    The Ulema and Mashaikh unanimously condemned extremism, terrorism and sectarianism, and pledged their continued support for the untiring efforts being made by the State and security forces to bring tolerance, peace, and stability in the country.

    They underscored that “Islam is a religion of peace and harmony, and its any skewed and distorted interpretations by certain entities is for their vested interests only and has nothing to do with Islamic teachings”.

    The COAS, while lauding the ‘Paigham-e-Pakistan’ decree by religious scholars to nullify misleading propaganda disseminated by extremists and terrorists, called upon the Ulema and Mashaikh for its propagation and implementation in letter and spirit, and shun internal schisms.

    The Army Chief signified the role of Ulema in harnessing youth towards understanding of Quran and Sunnah and character-building alongside other academic knowledge and technical skills.

    The forum unanimously supported the government’s steps, including repatriation of illegal foreigners, implementation of the One Document Regime, anti-smuggling and hoarding measures, and anti-power theft drive.

    It also fully acknowledged Pakistan’s position and concerns on terrorism emanating from the Afghan soil and urged serious actions by Afghanistan to address Pakistan’s concerns.

    The forum also expressed anguish on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and atrocities being committed against hapless people of Gaza and termed them crimes against humanity.

    “Pakistan belongs to all Pakistanis without any religious, provincial, tribal, linguistic, ethnic, sectarian or any other distinction. Use of force and armed action by any militia, entity or group other than state is unacceptable”, the COAS concluded.

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  • Pakistan pushes for more effective UNSC, focusing on its failure to end Israel’s war against Gaza

    UNITED NATIONS: Highlighting the UN Security Council’s failure to stop Palestinians’ “slaughter” in the Israeli–blockaded Gaza Strip, Pakistan has underscored the need to make the 15-member body more representative, transparent and accountable to ensure world peace and security, according to APP.

    “For more than a month now, a brutal war has raged in Gaza, with blatant war crimes and genocide being perpetrated by Israel against innocent Palestinian women and children,” Ambassador Munir Akram said in the UN General Assembly’s debate on how to reform the Security Council, pointing out that inability of its permanent members to agree on decisive action is the primary reason for frequent failures to respond effectively to conflicts.

    In this regard, the Pakistani envoy said that adding new permanent members to an enlarged Council would statistically multiply the prospects of its paralysis.

    “The problem cannot be the solution,” Ambassador Akram said.

    The Italy-Pakistan-led Uniting for Consensus (UfC) group, he added, remains “staunchly opposed” to any proposals for the creation of additional permanent seats in the Security Council.

    “Any country seeking a more frequent presence on the Security Council should do so by subjecting itself to the democratic process of periodic election by the General Assembly,” the Pakistani envoy said.

    The Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on Security Council reform, which began in February 2009 have remained stalled. The IGN process deals with five key areas — the categories of membership, the question of veto, regional representation, the size of an enlarged Security Council, and the working methods of the council and its relationship with the General Assembly.

    Despite a general agreement on enlarging the Council, as part of the UN reform process, member states remain divided over the details.

    The so-called Group of Four — India, Brazil, Germany and Japan — who seek permanent seats on the Council have shown no flexibility in their campaign for expanding the Council by 10 seats, with six additional permanent and four non-permanent members.

    On the other hand, the UfC group, which firmly opposes additional permanent members, has proposed a new category of members — not permanent members — with a longer duration in terms and a possibility of getting re-elected.

    The Security Council is currently composed of five permanent members — Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States — and 10 non-permanent members elected to serve for two years.

    In his address, Ambassador Akram said the UfC’s proposal to add 11-12 new non-permanent seats would offer greater representation to the vast majority of small and medium States, 59 of which have never served on the Security Council.

    Besides ensuring “equitable geopolitical” representation, he said, a larger number of non-permanent members could balance the inordinate influence of the 5 permanent members. Moreover, the periodic election of the non-permanent members would ensure both the accountability of Security Council members as well as the democratization of the United Nations.

    The African demand for two permanent seats was different from the quest of “4 individual States” (G-4) for permanent membership, as they would be filled by States selected by Africa and “accountable” to Africa and could be replaced by Africa, Ambassador Akram explained. The “four individual aspirants” would be accountable to no one and seek to advance their own national interests and ambitions.

    “In any case,” he added, “there are more than 4 or 6 States – perhaps over 20 – which can, based on their size, defence capability, economic status, peacekeeping role and contributions to peace and security, claim the mantle of more frequent representation on the Security Council,” adding that the UfC’s offer for longer-term seats could accommodate them.

    Ambassador Akram warned that no model of Council reform can be developed until member states reconcile the key divergences within the five clusters of issues.

    Consideration of the Council’s reform must remain exclusively within the intergovernmental negotiations process, he said, cautioning against duplication at the forthcoming Summit of the Future.

    Several delegates highlighted the need for more inclusive and representative membership, while others argued for limiting the use of the veto.

    “Never before has this issue been more pressing, both contextually and practically,” President of the 193-member Assembly, Dennis Francis, said as he opened the debate.

    At a moment of increased violence, he said, the United Nations seems paralyzed largely due to divisions within the Security Council, which is falling dangerously short of its mandate as the primary custodian for the maintenance of international peace and security.

    Without structural reform, the performance and legitimacy of the Council will continue to suffer and so will the credibility and relevance of the United Nations itself, he said, urging Member States to break through ingrained positions and take practical steps in support of effectiveness and inclusion.

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  • New report indicates 16% increase in Pakistani students studying in US universities

    New York: The U.S. Department of State, in collaboration with the Institute of International Education (IIE), has released the annual Open Doors Report for 2022-23 which highlights a substantial increase in the number of students from Pakistan studying in U.S. higher education institutions.

    According to the report, during 2022-2023, there were 10,164 Pakistani students, compared to 8,772 in the previous year, indicating an impressive 16% increase.

    This growth positions Pakistan among the top eight countries experiencing a notable rise in the number of students pursuing education in the United States, according to the U.S. Open Doors Report on International Students Exchange.
    The report underscores the United States’ continued prominence as the top destination for international study in the 2022-2023 academic year. Notably, the data reveals a significant milestone, with the U.S. hosting over one million (1,057,188) international students during this period, marking a remarkable 12% increase from the previous academic year and representing the fastest growth rate in over four decades.

    Welcoming significant increase in numbers, Pak Ambassador to the United States Ambassador Masood Khan expressed the hope that the ongoing efforts would result in doubling the existing numbers in next three years.

    He thanked the US administration for its cooperation in education sector and observed that the presence of Pakistani male and female students, from across the country, in various US institutes not only reflected close cooperation of the two countries in education sector but also guaranteed strong Pak-US relations in the future.

    Masood Khan said that focus was being laid on providing Pakistani students with greater opportunities in STEM subjects especially in science, technology, engineering and mathematics so that they could benefit from US expertise and knowledge in these disciplines.

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  • Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

    Paris: Pakistan was re-elected to the executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the term 2023-2027.

    Pakistan thanked the member states for their support and the confidence reposed in its candidature, according to information department’s press release.

    “It is a matter of immense pride to have been entrusted with the responsibility to serve on the Executive Board,” it stated.
    “Pakistan will avail this opportunity to continue to contribute to the policymaking, development of norms, advancement of global priorities, and effective oversight of programs and activities of the Organization.”

    Pakistan values the ever-relevant and crucial role of UNESCO as a universal forum to promote the intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind and advancement of global peace and development through education, science, culture and communication.

    “As an ardent advocate of multilateralism, Pakistan will endeavour to strengthen our collective efforts at UNESCO, including by building bridges across regions and forging consensus on key issues for tangible outcomes and impact on ground. As a partner, Pakistan will continue to extend proactive support for the SIDS Operational Strategy and Global Priorities – Africa and Gender Equality. Pakistan’s re-election is a testament to its longstanding support for and constructive role at the United Nations.”

    “Pakistan will continue to work with all Member States to strengthen UNESCO’s mandate and advance our shared goals.”

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  • NYC’s DOE says public school enrollment goes up to 1 percent or 8,000 students, first time in 8 years

    NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor David C. Banks today announced the first increase in student enrollment at New York City public schools in eight years, based on preliminary data. For the 2023-2024 school year, the DOE has seen enrollment increase approximately 1 percent — or roughly 8,000 students — bringing the total number of students registered in the DOE to approximately 915,000 and maintaining New York City’s status as the nation’s largest school district.

    “When we say New York City is back, we are not just talking about our economy — we are talking about our communities and our entire city. And after eight years of declining enrollment, New York City public schools are back,” said Mayor Adams. “Chancellor Banks and our administration are focused on delivering the best education possible for our young New Yorkers by cutting through bureaucracy, expanding outreach, and making enrollment easier. New Yorkers are voting with their feet, and we are excited to see funding increase for so many of our public schools.”

    “After eight years of enrollment declines, we are thrilled to see enrollment increase across the city,” said DOE Chancellor Banks. “With a majority of schools gaining additional funding during this mid-year adjustment, we are well positioned to meet the challenges ahead. However, to continue our progress and ensure the success of our students, particularly those in temporary housing, we urgently need increased state and federal funding.”

     

    After eight years of declining enrollment, this positive trend is a testament to the effective strategies implemented by the Adams administration, including through the Project Open Arms initiative. In line with DOE’s standard timeline, audited and finalized enrollment data will be available in the spring as part of the demographic snapshot. As this data — current as of October 31, 2023 — is preliminary and unaudited, students can still enter or leave the system, and the data can fluctuate until the audit process is complete.

    The increase in enrollment is particularly significant as the Adams administration navigates the post-COVID-19 era without the benefit of federal stimulus funds. This year, approximately 57 percent of schools are expected to receive a total of $183 million — an average of $209,000 per school — in additional Fair Student Funding due to higher-than-projected enrollment. The Adams administration’s commitment to equitable education is further reflected in its Fair Student Funding policy, which ensures that schools with higher enrollments and schools that serve students with additional needs receive the necessary resources to support their students. Increased enrollment will also bolster the administration’s advocacy for additional state and federal funding.

    Also today, the DOE published its annual class size report, showing that the city is in compliance for this school year with the state’s new class size mandates. However, to maintain compliance as state law mandates smaller class sizes over the coming years, additional resources will be required — particularly to equitably support schools across the city. The Adams administration will continue to advocate for state and federal funding to support students and families as the law is implemented.

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  • IMF reaches staff level agreement on first review under Pakistan’s SBA

    Washington DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff and Pakistani authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the first review under Pakistan’s Stand-by arrangement SBA under which Pakistan will have access to around US$ 700 million, subject to approval by the IMF’s executive board.

    The agreement supports the authorities’ commitment to advance the planned fiscal consolidation, accelerate cost-reducing reforms in the energy sector, complete the return to a market-determined exchange rate, and pursue state-owned enterprise and governance reforms to attract investment and support job creation, while continuing to strengthen social assistance.

    It is pertinent to mention that IMF team led IMF mission chief for Pakistan Nathan Porter, visited Islamabad from November 2-15, 2023, to hold discussions on the first review of Pakistan’s economic program supported by an IMF Stand-By Arrangement (SBA).

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Porter issued the following statement:

    “The IMF team has reached a staff-level agreement (SLA) with the Pakistani authorities on the first review of their stabilization program supported by the IMF’s US$3 billion (SDR2,250 million) SBA. The agreement is subject to approval of the IMF’s Executive Board. Upon approval around US$700 million (SDR 528 million) will become available bringing total disbursements under the program to almost US$1.9 billion.

    “Anchored by the stabilization policies under the SBA, a nascent recovery is underway, buoyed by international partners’ support and signs of improved confidence. The steadfast execution of the FY24 budget, continued adjustment of energy prices, and renewed flows into the foreign exchange (FX) market have lessened fiscal and external pressures. Inflation is expected to decline over the coming months amid receding supply constraints and modest demand. However, Pakistan remains susceptible to significant external risks, including the intensification of geopolitical tensions, resurgent commodity prices, and the further tightening in global financial conditions. Efforts to build resilience need to continue.

    “In this regard, strengthening macroeconomic sustainability and laying the conditions for balanced growth are key priorities under the SBA. The authorities’ policy priorities include:

    Continued fiscal consolidation to reduce public debt, while protecting development needs. The authorities are determined to achieve a primary surplus of at least 0.4 percent of GDP in FY24, underpinned by federal and provincial government spending restraint and improved revenue performance supported, if necessary, by contingent measures. The authorities are building capacity to expand the tax base and raise revenue mobilization and are committed to improving the quality of public investment and spending.

    Strengthening the social safety net to better protect the vulnerable. The authorities will continue the timely disbursements for social protection under BISP’s budget allocation—which are about a third higher than in FY23. This will allow for the expansion of the Unconditional Cash Transfers (UCT) Kafaalat program to 9.3 million families this fiscal year, with an annual inflation adjustment of the stipend. Looking forward, the authorities are seeking to improve the UCT Kafaalat generosity level and to increase enrollment into the Conditional Cash Transfers programs supporting children’s education and health.

    Further reforms to reduce costs in the energy sector and restore its viability. With the combined circular debt (CD) across power and gas sectors exceeding 4 percent of GDP, immediate action was critical. While protecting vulnerable consumers, the authorities implemented power tariff adjustments that were pending since July 2023 and increased gas prices after a long time, effective November 1, 2023. While these increases were substantial, they were necessary to avoid further arrears that threatened the viability of these sectors and the provision of critical energy supplies. The authorities are also moving to tackle cost-side pressures, including bringing private sector participation to DISCOs, institutionalizing recovery and anti-theft actions, improving PPA terms, and reducing the incentives for captive power.

    Returning to a market-determined exchange rate and rebuilding FX reserves. While inflows following increased regulatory and law enforcement helped normalize import and FX payments and rebuild reserves, the authorities recognize that the rupee must remain market-determined to sustainably alleviate external pressures and rebuild reserves. To support this, they plan to strengthen the transparency and efficiency of the FX market and to refrain from administrative actions to influence the rupee.

    Proactive monetary policy to lower inflation toward its target. With appropriately tight monetary policy, inflation should steadily decline and the authorities stand ready to respond resolutely if near-term price pressures reemerge, including due to second-round effects on core inflation or renewed exchange rate depreciation.

    Building financial sector resilience. Continued vigilance is warranted to safeguard the soundness of the banking system. Priorities include addressing undercapitalized financial institutions, ensuring foreign exchange exposures within regulatory limits, and aligning bank resolution and crisis management frameworks with best practice.

    Continuing state-owned enterprise and governance reforms to improve the business environment, investment, and job creation. Following passage of the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) law, the authorities are moving forward with their SOE policy and implementation of their triage plan, including the privatization of select SOEs. High governance and transparency standards will apply to the management of assets under the ownership of the newly created Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) and the operations of the SIFC. To further strengthen governance, the authorities will ensure public access to asset declarations from Cabinet members and a task force, with participation from independent experts, will complete a comprehensive review of the anticorruption framework.

    Deepening cooperation with international partners. The authorities have accelerated the engagement with multilateral and official bilateral partners. Timely disbursement of committed external support remains critical to support the authorities’ policy and reform efforts.

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  • ‘Let power of intellect overrule military might to save humanity from wars,’ Alvi

    Islamabad: President Dr Arif Alvi has said that with wars and conflicts resulting in the massacre of innocent people, the world needed a unified approach to saving humanity from the violence of the powerful.

    “Power of intellect should be the world order taking precedence over the violent forces which quash the spirit of humanity and justice,” he said at annual Margalla Dialogue 2023.

    The event themed ‘Evolving world environment: Charting the course of our future’ gathered diplomats, thinkers, and intellectuals from various countries.

    President Alvi said dehumanizing people had become a norm in the world where vested interests prevailed over humanity.

    War, he said, was not a solution to resolve any conflict and always resulted in a never-ending vicious cycle of violenc

    He pointed out that using the right of veto against the cessation of war questioned the ethical standards of the countries concerned.

    In Gaza, he said the massive killings of Palestinians committed by Israel needed urgent attention by the international community to act and play its role in stopping the bloodshed.

    He said Israel, in its justification to eliminate Hamas was “killing the Palestinians like savages” and calling the colossal deaths as collateral damage”.

    The president mentioned that the world after several war-related deaths in Europe arrived at the culmination of peace treaties and bodies like the League of the Nations and the United Nations (UN).

    He emphasized the role of the UN in waging peace initiatives to prevent disputes from escalating into conflicts and an effective mechanism to stop wars.

    Besides conflicts, he said, the world faced several threats affiliated with climate change, artificial intelligence, negative social narratives, unequal wealth distribution, and dissatisfied mankind.

    “The realistic solutions to these challenges need international cooperation requiring the adoption of viable systems and also embedding ethical morality into approach,” he said.

    President of IPRI Dr Raza Muhammad said as the world grappled with both natural and man-made disasters, it was time for a collective approach to save humanity from emanating the risks involved.

    He highlighted the need for a global focus on conflict resolution, the economy, and climate change.

    Earlier, President Dr Arif Alvi and the guests in attendance observed a one-minute silence for the innocent people of Palestine who faced the barbaric acts of Israel.

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  • No room for hatred in the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural NYC: Eric Adams

    New York: New York City Mayor Eric Adams has said that there is no place for hate in our city, in the current situation we need to work together to solve hate crimes.

    Mayor of New York Eric Adams, while holding a weekly press conference in his office, informed the media representatives about the various challenges facing the city government and the measures taken to deal with them.

    On this occasion, the mayor was asked that due to the incidents of Islamophobia and hate crime, parents of both the Muslim and Jewish religions are worried about their children, and what measures the government is taking in such situations.

    On this occasion, Mayor Eric Adams responded that his administration has organized several round tables and other events to bring people of different religions closer to each other and eliminate hatred.

    New York is a city of diversity. It’s a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-generational city. Look at Crown Heights, the neighborhood consists of around 150 thousand residents among them largely the Jews. Similarly, in Cony Island, there are a large number of people originally hailing from Pakistan.

    The Mayor said that he encourages more conversation on a local level so that people from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds know each other, and live in a peaceful manner.

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  • ACMW, COPO hold awareness seminar on NYC’s annual budget, its allocation

    New York: The American Council of Minority Women (ACMW) in collaboration with the Council of People’s Organization (COPO) organized an awareness seminar on New York’s budgetary allocations, and development spending in the city.  

    A large number of community members participated in a session titled: “The People’s Money” and Idea Generation related to budgeting and spending by the Civic Engagement Commission, a sub-department of New York City.

    The participants were informed that they must present their proposals and suggestions to the government in budgeting.

    On this occasion, the chairperson of the Council of People’s Organization, Baza Ruhi, said that the city government has every community and their areas in the budget. A portion of the development projects is allocated for them, but for this, it is important that the people inform the government about their priority areas where development work is needed.

    On this occasion, COPO director Hasan Raza said that the city government wants to spend more of the budget on the welfare of the citizens, and has given many important suggestions from the community that should be presented to the city government for budgeting.

    The participants of the seminar were given a presentation based on the preparation of the budget and the COPO representative told in English that out of the annual budget of $1.3 trillion  of the United States, only $ 107 billion are allocated for New York City.

    ACMW member Mehwish Khan translated the presentation in Urdu so that the community members could easily understand.

    ACMW Secretary Ahmed and others also participated in the awareness session. At the end the participants were also given gifts through a lucky draw.

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  • International investors should explore business and investment opportunities in Pakistan, Alvi

    Islamabad: President Dr Arif Alvi has said that international investors and companies should explore business and investment opportunities in Pakistan and benefit from Pakistan’s improved business climate.

    Talking to a visiting delegation of Oxford Alumni, President Alvi said that Pakistan offered tremendous investment opportunities in diverse sectors of its economy and was an emerging market that was growing every year.
    The visiting delegation led by Haseeb Ahmad, comprised of Oxford graduates from different geographical and business backgrounds, who called on President Dr Arif Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr, and discussed the prospects of doing business in Pakistan.

    President said that Pakistan was focusing on improving its economy and was making efforts to enhance exports and explore new markets for its products.
    He stated that Pakistan offered an investment-friendly climate and had improved its ease of doing business ranking in recent years.

    He added that foreign investors should explore business opportunities in Pakistan in different sectors of the economy, particularly in Information Technology.

    The President informed the delegation that Pakistan had established the Special Investment Facilitation Council to facilitate and encourage foreign investment in Pakistan and provide a one-window facility to the investors.
    He remarked that foreign investors should invest in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Special Technology Zones (STZs) and benefit from tax incentives offered by the government.

    Highlighting Pakistan’s trained human resources, the President said that 3.5 million trainings had been imparted since 2018 under the Prime Minister’s Digital Skills Training Program ‘DigiSkills’ in the field of IT to equip youth and women with the latest IT skills.
    He said that Pakistan was focused on increasing the number of quality and skilled graduates, particularly in IT, besides increasing the quantum of online education.

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  • British high commission’s director development calls on planning minister

    Islamabad: A two-member delegation led by Jo Moir, Director of Development at British High Commission Islamabad called on the caretaker minister for planning development & special initiatives, Mohammad Sami Saeed on Tuesday.

    The two sides exchanged views on the existing portfolio for Pakistan and expressed their resolve to further enhance in the future.
    The Planning Minister highlighted a National Climate Finance Strategy (NCFS) which has been prepared to identify sectoral priorities and scale climate finance.

    He also highlighted the newly–established Sustainable Finance Bureau (SFB) to revolutionize climate finance. He said that Pakistan is among the countries in the world that are most affected by weather/climate-related hazards such as floods, landslides, droughts, heat waves, extreme cold, and cyclones, etc. He said that Pakistan has already geared up the efforts to cope with such a huge challenge as the planning ministry has taken the lead in establishing an NCFS and Climate Responsive Public Investment Framework.

    The Planning Minister appreciated the support of BHC for its decades-long assistance, which has been playing a vital role in the socio-economic uplift of Pakistan. He also appreciated their continued support and commitment for the ongoing development projects, particularly in the climate sector.

    Ms Moir appreciated the steps taken by the planning ministry and assured their full support in the future. She reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its journey toward climate resilience and sustainable development. The UK has been actively involved in addressing the climate challenges which are being faced by Pakistan.

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  • Caretaker PM urges overseas Pakistanis to invest in Pakistan

    ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday urged the overseas Pakistanis to invest in Pakistan and assured that the government would provide all possible support and facilities to them, APP reported.
    He said protecting the rights of overseas Pakistanis were among the top priorities of the government.
    The prime minister expressed these views during a meeting with a delegation of the overseas Pakistanis led by Nouman Mustafa that called on him, the PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.
    The prime minister observed that transfer of remittances of the Pakistanis residing aboard through legal and safe manner was very important for the country’s progress and urged them to send their amounts through the Roshan Digital Pakistan Account.
    He further said that the Roshan Digital Pakistan Account was the safest means for transfer of remittances and its utilization could help in improving the national economy.
    Protection of their investments and properties were the responsibility of the government and no leniency would be tolerated in that regard, he added.

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  • Joint Arab Islamic Summit’s resolution calls upon UNSC to condemn destruction in Gaza, ensure immediate cessation of Israeli escalation

    ISLAMABAD: The Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit which was held in Riyadh has called upon the United Nations Security Council to adopt a resolution to condemn the destruction, displacement, and prevention of basic services and needs in Gaza and to ensure immediate cessation of Israeli military escalation, according to Associated Press of Pakistan (APP.

    APP while quoting a press statement said that the summit further demanded lifting of the Israeli illegal siege, ensure delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and compel the colonial occupation to abide by the international laws, ).

    The joint extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on 11 November had concluded its work in the presence of Heads of State and Government of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States, a press statement said.

    The two organizations in the resolution adopted by the joint summit underscored the centrality of the Palestinian cause and their support with all their capabilities for the legitimate struggle of the Palestinian people to liberate all their occupied territories and the need to end the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people and to separate Gaza from the West Bank, including Al Quds Al Sharif.

    “The resolution affirmed that Israel and all the states in the region will never enjoy security and peace unless Palestinians enjoy them and reclaim all their usurped rights,”.

    The resolution mandated the foreign ministers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as Chair of the Arab Summit (32), and the Islamic Summit and of Jordan, Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, Indonesia, Nigeria, Palestine, and any other interested country and the secretary generals of the two organizations to start immediate international action on behalf of all member states of the Organization and the League to initiate an international action to stop the war on Gaza.
    The resolutions also demanded that all countries stop exporting weapons and ammunitions to the occupation authorities that are used by their army and terrorist settlers to kill the Palestinian people and destroy their homes, hospitals, schools, mosques, churches, and all their properties.

    The resolution mandated the two General Secretariats of the OIC and the League of Arab States to establish two specialized legal monitoring units to document all the crimes of the occupation authorities in the Gaza Strip since 7 October 2023 and to prepare evidence on the Israeli violations.

    It affirmed its support for the legal and political initiatives of the State of Palestine at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the International Criminal Court (ICC), and the Human Rights Council (HRC).
    It also requested the prosecutor of the ICC to continue its investigation into the war crimes and crimes against humanity perpetrated by Israel against the Palestinian people.

    The resolution called for convening an international peace conference, as soon as possible, noting that a just, durable, and comprehensive peace was the only way to achieve that on the basis of international legitimacy resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative as basic terms of reference and renewed adherence to all its provisions and priorities.

    The resolution contained political, legal, and humanitarian steps, including breaking the siege on Gaza, ensuring the entry of Arab, Islamic, and international humanitarian aid convoys, and supporting Egypt’s efforts to deliver aid to the Strip in an immediate, sustainable, and sufficient manner.
    It also called on the international organizations to participate in this process.

    It described the ongoing Israeli aggression as a retaliatory war crime that could not be justified under any guise.
    “The resolution also included the activation of the Arab and Islamic Financial Safety Net to provide assistance and financial, economic, and humanitarian support to the Government of the State of Palestine and to UNRWA, and emphasized the need to mobilize international partners to reconstruct Gaza and mitigate the effects of the massive destruction caused by the Israeli aggression as soon as it stops,” the statement said.

    The resolution also condemned the military aggression against the Gaza Strip and the war crimes and barbaric, brutal, and inhuman massacres committed by the colonial occupation government and the military operations against Palestinian cities and camps, the settlers’ terrorism, and Israeli attacks on Islamic and Christian holy places in Al-Quds and the illegal Israeli measures that violated freedom of worship.

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  • Escalating Israeli attacks on Gaza could spread conflict to wider region, UN official warns

    UNITED NATIONS: Against the backdrop of relentless Israeli attacks on Gaza, the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, has warned of a dangerous expansion of the conflict in the wider region at a conference on the establishment of a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons, according to APP.

    Ms. Nakamitsu, addressing the opening session of the conference on behalf of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said she came to the Conference “with a heavy heart, anguish, pain and sorrow that I had never felt in my more than 30 years of UN career.” She noted the minute of silence among UN personnel to mourn and honour the 101 brave colleagues from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) who have lost their lives in Gaza in service of others.

     

     

    During her address to the Conference last year, she spoke of the increasing geopolitical tensions and conflicts in the world and the strain on multilateral disarmament and non-proliferation regimes, she said. “A year on, we are witnessing a crisis of humanity unfolding in front of our eyes in Gaza,” she said.

    The geopolitical and security situation has worsened and relations among major powers have further strained, Ms. Nakamitsu noted.

    She expressed deep concern about clear violations of international humanitarian law in the ongoing conflict.

    “Let me repeat the clear, unequivocal position of the United Nations that no party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law. Even wars have rules,” she said, calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to allow for life-saving aid to reach those in urgent and desperate need.

    “Cool heads and diplomatic efforts must prevail,” she said, emphasizing that no effort should be spared to help pave the way to peace, to a two-State solution with Israelis and Palestinians living in peace and security.

    Addressing the root causes of the conflict, including through a broader peace and security architecture in the region, is urgent, Ms. Nakamitsu said.

    Given the current crisis in the Middle East, the decision to continue the important work of the Conference demonstrates a collective will to use dialogue and diplomacy in seeking common security and regional peace.

    “Any threat to use nuclear weapons is inadmissible [and] further illustrates the urgency and imperative to achieve the objective of a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction,” she said.

    The current session will continue to address key issues for a future Middle East zone treaty. The importance of effective verification cannot be understated, as it ensures compliance and fosters trust among the parties to a future zone, she said.

    “The path towards the establishment of a Middle East zone through the elaboration of a legally binding treaty will not be smooth sailing,” she said. But the incremental approach of the Conference is working well in preparing States for future negotiation of a treaty, she added, reiterating a call for the full participation of all States in the region. “A Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction will significantly contribute […] to peace and security of the Middle East and beyond,” she said.

    Opening the conference, the President of the fourth session of the Conference, Taher El-Sonni of Libya, said the crisis in Gaza and its unpredictable backlash for peace and security in the Middle East and beyond underscores the urgency of the work of the Conference.

    “The grave violations by the Israeli occupation forces must come to an end immediately,” he said. “As long as there are nuclear weapons and other WMDs (weapons of mass destruction) in our region, there will be no hope for sustainable peace in our region,” he said, adding that the provocative statement by a representative of the Israeli Government a few days ago, threatening the use of nuclear weapons against Gaza, is unacceptable.

    The Conference and all parts of the United Nations must condemn that threat, which proves the gravity of the situation, he said.

    The President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, noted that over four decades ago, the Assembly recommended the establishment of a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East.

    “The ardent hope for a safer future has not been lost on the sands of time,” he said, highlighting that only two weeks ago, the First Committee (Disarmament and International Security) reaffirmed its unflinching support for the establishment of this zone, calling for urgent and practical steps for implementation.

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  • Pakistani teacher who set up school for underprivileged wins $1m Global Teacher Prize

    A Pakistani teacher who as a teenager founded a school for underprivileged children in her home has won the $1 million Global Teacher Prize, according to the National News.Com UAE.

    Sister Zeph was just 13 years old when she set up a school in the courtyard of her home for children whose parents could not afford to send them to school.

    She worked eight-hour days to fund the school and then taught pupils for four hours, and then stayed up at night teaching herself.

    Twenty-six years later, the school is now housed in a new building and provides free education to more than 200 underprivileged children.

    Sister Zeph plans to use the $1 million she won to build a school on four hectares where children from the poorest families in the country can be educated without facing any discrimination.

    She also wants to create a shelter for orphans, where food will be grown in-house and teachers from all parts of the world invited to provide classes.

    Stefania Giannini, assistant director general for education at Unesco, congratulated Sister Zeph on winning the Global Teacher Prize 2023.

    “Inspirational teachers deserve recognition for their strong commitment to education in a world faced by global teacher shortages and a decline in conditions and status,” Ms Giannini said.

    “Teachers matter. Now more than ever, we must honour and support teachers as they shape not only the next generation but the future course of our societies.”

    Sister Zeph, from Gujranwala, Punjab, in Pakistan, was selected from more than 7,000 nominations and applications.

    She teaches English, Urdu, culture, inter-faith harmony and climate change.

    Ms Zeph also runs self-defence classes for girls and provides financial assistance to families forced to choose between educating their children and paying their bills, and runs a vocational centre that has helped more than 6,000 women gain skills in computers, textiles, and learning English.

    The Global Teacher Prize, now in its eighth year, is an annual award by the Varkey Foundation made to an educator who has made an outstanding contribution to the profession.

    The Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize 2023 is organized in collaboration with Unesco in partnership with Dubai Cares and is the largest prize of its kind.

    Actor, comedian, and writer Stephen Fry announced Sister Zeph as the winner at a ceremony he also hosted, from Unesco’s headquarters in Paris.

    Sunny Varkey, founder of the Varkey Foundation, said: “Congratulations to Sister Zeph for winning the Global Teacher Prize 2023. Your incredible story shows the vital role education plays in tackling the great challenges of today and tomorrow.”

    Tariq Al Gurg, chief executive officer and vice-chairman of Dubai Cares, also congratulated Sister Zeph on her win.

    “Teachers are at the heart of the education ecosystem and have one of the most important jobs in the world as they shape young minds and prepare them for a world that is constantly changing,” he said.

    Teachers applying for the Global Teacher Prize are assessed on teaching practices, how they innovate to address local challenges, achieve demonstrable learning outcomes, affect the community beyond the classroom, help children become global citizens and improve the teaching profession.

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  • Protesters in Austin calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza, halt U.S. Aid to Israel

    Austin: Thousands gathered at the state capitol in Austin this weekend and marched the streets to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

    Attendees also called for an end to both U.S. Aid to Israel and to what they call a 17-year siege of Gaza.

    According to the Palestinian Youth Movement and partnering organizers, the protest was the largest in favor of Palestinians in Texas history.

    “It was a continuation of what we saw in D.C. a week ago, where we saw hundreds of thousands of people on the streets in D.C., Declaring that this is just the beginning and that they want to escalate until they get what they want, which is a cease fire,” says Palestinian Youth Movement Member Nashwa Abdulawahed.

    Thousands lined the streets to protest the deadly bombings in Gaza and demand an immediate ceasefire to end what Abdulawahed calls a 17-year siege.

    Abdulawahed adds, “I think the hardest part of all of this has been seeing the way people are treated, the way people, the way the Palestinian people have been talked about in order to justify their genocide. What we’ve seen is, is the worst of humanity in Gaza.”

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  • Khalil Hashmi assumes charge as Pakistan’s Ambassador to China

    BEIJING: The newly appointed Ambassador to Pakistan Khalil Hashmi on Monday assumed charge of his office, according to APP.

    In his first official engagement, Ambassador Hashmi presented a copy of his credentials to Hong Lei, Director General of the Protocol Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    Ambassador Hashmi, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the Chinese side for the warm welcome accorded to him, in keeping with the long-standing tradition of both countries.

    Reminiscing of his previous stint in Beijing from 2008-2010, he expressed his resolve to further solidify the already-robust relationship between the two countries.

    Director General Hong conveyed the best wishes to Ambassador Hashmi for a successful tenure and assured him of full support.

    Earlier on his arrival in Beijing in the weekend, he was by Zhang Maoming, Deputy Director General of Asia Department. He succeeds Ambassador Moin ul Haque who returned to Pakistan on retirement early this month.

    Ambassador Hashmi is a senior Pakistani diplomat with 29 years of experience in both bilateral and multilateral relations.
    Prior to his recent appointment, he served as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva from November 2019 onwards.

    He has also worked at Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to New York twice, including as Deputy Permanent Representative.

    Ambassador Hashmi joined the Pakistan diplomatic service in 1994. His first diplomatic assignment was at Pakistan’s Embassy in Copenhagen from 1999 to 2002.

    In Islamabad, Ambassador Hashmi served as Director General of the United Nations, European Region and Arms Control Divisions and as Director of South Asia, India and Disarmament Directorates.

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  • Caretaker PM reminds int’l community to intervene; implement solution to Palestine issue

    ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, during his participation in the Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit in the Saudi Capital of Riyadh on Saturday, has reminded the international community to promptly intervene and implement a durable solution to Palestine issue as the five-week ceaseless Israeli’s military aggression led to genocide and stoked fears of engulfing the region into wider conflict, according to APP. 
    He underscored the urgency of bringing an end to Israel’s aggression and brutality with an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, lifting of the siege of Gaza, and rapid and unhindered humanitarian and relief assistance.
    The prime minister of Pakistan was among the prominent leaders of the Muslim world who vociferously and very candidly highlighted the root causes leading to the current humanitarian crisis with over 11,000 deaths in Gaza due to Israel’s indiscriminate aerial and ground blitz after October 7.
    The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted the Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit considering the human catastrophe that befell upon the Palestinian territories with Israel’s belligerent military invasion.
    The summit assumed significance as it brought the Muslims leaders from across the globe and continents together on one platform, expressing a unifying stance and forging a spirit of brotherhood and affinities for the unfortunate civilians of Gaza undergoing horrors of usage of globally banned arsenal and weapons by Israel occupation forces.
    Caretaker Prime Minister Kakar, in his remarks, reaffirmed that a permanent solution to the conflict was in the establishment of a secure, viable, contiguous and sovereign state of Palestine on the basis of pre-June 1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its Capital.
    He stressed that the Israeli occupation forces were acting in clear violation of the international humanitarian and human rights laws, and their indiscriminate and disproportionate use of force amounted to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
    He also reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity and support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination.
    The prime minister regretted that they were witnessing another war in Gaza which was ‘a genocide’, sharing his pains at the distressing and miserable images of the women and children in the backdrop of bombs being dropped at hospitals, refugees’ camps and ambulances as Israel had turned Gaza into a living hell.
    “Israel’s incessant flouting of international laws with impunity had few parallels in history, he said, adding “I condemn these atrocities in the strongest terms.”
    He called upon the international community to hold Israel accountable for its crimes, urging the UNSC members to rise above their differences and urgently perform their primary responsibility of maintaining peace and security in the region.
    “Human lives cannot be sacrificed at the altar of technicalities,” he added.
    Prime Minister Kakar opined that billions across the globe wanting peace and progress and development, and the world could not afford to be pushed into the brink of another war.
    He also proposed for initiation of proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel for its war crimes and crimes against humanity, besides the establishment of a special commission of inquiry by the United Nations Secretary-General to investigate these war crimes.
    During his three-day visit, the prime minister also held meetings with the Arab and Islamic countries leaders on the sidelines of the main event.
    The prime minister met with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister of KSA Mohammed bin Salman, Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of the summit.
    During their meeting, the prime minister and the Saudi crown prince underlined the need for an urgent international collaboration geared towards stopping Israel from brutal and indiscriminate aggression against the besieged and innocent Palestinians.
    They further emphasized the urgency of lifting the blockade of Occupied Gaza to facilitate the delivery of vital humanitarian aid and medical assistance to the affected population.
    While in his meeting with Crown Prince of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, they expressed their deep concern over the alarming situation in Gaza with the staggering death toll and wholesale destruction of civilian infrastructure amidst the ongoing Israeli aggression and siege.
    In a meeting with Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of the Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit, the prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s strong condemnation of the ongoing brutal campaign by the Israeli forces.
    The bilateral ties and cooperation were also discussed during these meetings.
    The Joint Summit called for an immediate ceasefire, end to ongoing Israeli aggression and siege of Gaza, deaths and destruction, the opening of a humanitarian corridor and immediate implementation of two-state solution.
    The leaders denounced the forced displacement of residents of Gaza and the occupation of the territory by the Israeli armed forces.
    The Israeli aggression had so far killed more than 11,000 civilians while razing to ground the residential buildings and roads infrastructure in the indiscriminate and brutal aerial and ground assaults that also targeted hospitals, refugees’ camps and schools.

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  • SAPM met ILO delegation to discuss strategies for enhancing overseas employment

    Islamabad: Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (SAPM on OP&HRD) Jawad Sohrab Malik met with the International Labour Organization ILO delegation led by Geir Tonstol, Country Director ILO for Pakistan, to discuss various strategies for enhancing overseas employment for Pakistani migrant workers.

    The discussion centered around devising a strategy to ensure fair recruitment and secure migration while upholding the principles of inclusive and equitable migration for dignified and decent employment.

    The SAPM expressed the desire for the ILO to lead the development of a national roadmap.

    According to SAPM, the roadmap will set forth practical measures, ranging from short to long term, aimed at enhancing people’s capacities through skills development.

    Furthermore, it should establish a policy framework that advocates for international accreditation, raises awareness among prospective migrant workers, and encourages private sector engagement in recognizing prior learning and integrating labor provisions into bilateral trade agreements.

    ILO delegation appraised SAPM that ILO is actively collaborating with government of Pakistan, under the leadership of ministry of overseas Pakistanis and human resource development, in ensuring safe migration practices, especially for blue-collar workers who are frequently vulnerable to exploitative working environment.

    In this regard, ILO officials said that together with Bureau of Emigration and Protectorate offices , the ILO provides predeparture support and awareness initiatives to both workers and public service providers for effective governance, aiming to enhance effective governance.

    SAPM and ILO delegation agreed upon continuous support to each other, in ensuring provision and securing of decent employment opportunities, in countries of destination, to migrant work force of Pakistan.

    The delegation of ILO included Dino Corell (Migration Specialist), Gabriel Bordado (Skills Specialist), Amish Karki (Program Manager for GOALS Project), Saghir Bukhari (Senior Program Officer ILO, Islamabad) and Shahzad Ahmed (Project Officer- GOALS).

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  • Caretaker government’s authority excludes extensions, appointments, says JUIP Senator

    ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan (JUIP) Senator Kamran Murtaza on Monday voiced strong opinions regarding the limitations of the caretaker government’s authority, asserting that extensions or significant appointments did not fall within its purview.

    According to APP, Senator Murtaza emphasized that Section 230 of the Election Act, 2017 explicitly restricted the caretaker setup from making any major appointments or extensions.

     

     

    During the session, he also addressed the establishment of a separate ministry dedicated to handling affairs related to the minerals of Balochistan.

    Expressing his reservations, he questioned the justification behind such a move, calling for transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.

    On a separate note, the senator raised concerns about the recent abduction and subsequent recovery of Naseeb Ullah Achakzai.

    He urged the authorities to enhance law and order in Balochistan, emphasizing the need for improved security measures to safeguard the well-being of citizens.

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  • Indonesia Ambassador declares Murree ‘Sister City’ to Bali, urges tourism boost

    ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Indonesia to Pakistan, Adam M. Tugio on Sunday said that Murree can be counted among the most beautiful regions in the world and the natural beauty of Murree can compete with any major tourism spot in the world, according to APP.

    Indonesia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Adam Tugiu said that the world-famous tourist destinations of Pakistan, Murree, and Indonesia, Bali, can be called sister cities, for which the two governments should start talking and this will promote tourism on both sides.

     

     

    He said this while talking to the Journalist and local business community in the local hotel of Murree.

    The Ambassador of Indonesia said that there are historical religious and cultural relations between Pakistan and Indonesia, which are based on many factors needs to be transferred to the new generation. He said that Pakistan maintained friendship with Indonesia from the early years of independence, which can not be denied in the form of modern mutual economic, trade, cultural and diplomatic relations. The ambassador of Indonesia said that 600 soldiers went from Pakistan for the freedom of Indonesia, some of whom sacrificed their lives there, and as the sun of freedom rose in Indonesia, the relations between the two countries were growing day by day. Meanwhile, the ambassador of Indonesia said that the founder of Indonesia, Ahmad SuKarno, and the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had a relationship of personal friendship, that’s why you see similarities between most famous  Jinnah Cap and Soekarno Cap.

    He said that Allama Iqbal’s poetry has an influence on many movements in Indonesia and Allama Iqbal is equally popular in Indonesia.The Ambassador said that there is similarity in the food and culture of the two countries and the habits of the two nations are similar in terms of food and drink and spices.In response to a question Indonesian Ambassador Adam Tugio said that he will do his best for the visit of Murree journalists to Indonesia and in this regard, Murree Press Club will be contacted soon. He said that the visit of Murree journalists to Indonesia will give them an opportunity to know about Indonesia, which will increase mutual intimacy.Adam Togio said that Indonesia announces scholarships for students every year and this year also the scholarship was awarded in the same way. He emphasized that the children of Murree journalists should apply for Indonesia’s scholarship, they should give priority to them and will be fully supported by the Indonesian Embassy Islamabad in this regard.In response to a question, the Ambassador of Indonesia said that the mutual economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Indonesia are very strong and bilateral trade between the two countries is $ 4.5 billion dollars, which needs to be further increased.He said that there is a need to promote mutual relations between the people of both the countries so that mutual intimacy between the people can increase.

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