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Pak bashing or resuscitating war economy
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
An intense anti-Pakistan campaign continues in the Western media.
All and sundry erupted to put the blame on Pakistan to justify 9
years of US and NATO failure in Afghanistan. Suddenly, the leaders
of the Western nations found a strong ally in India. They shower New
Delhi with fancy comments even as Indian army and its security
forces are massively violating human rights in the occupied state of
Jammu and Kashmir. However, there is something behind this game that
attempts to suppress the dark side of failed policies of war.
The Western governments are facing an acute recession, which seems
to be unending. Hence, they are out to create and sustain wars in
the globe. Theirs is an economy of war. The Anglo- Saxons are
combining well to promote war and insist on using massive force in
their foreign policy. This explains why the Western leaders kept mum
on the criminal of wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It also explains
why the British Prime Minister Mr. David Cameron asked all his
Ministers who accompanied him during his latest visit to India not
to ever mention Kashmir. When you are pursuing a war economy, you
simply cannot afford expose the criminals of war even as the very
Western civil society unveiled them to international media.
The arms industries in the United States and Western countries are
selling weapons worth billions of dollars. Hence, these arms
factories are stimulating economic recovery on the expense of
killing hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians in Iraq and
Afghanistan. With all these weapons in hand, the Western heroes are
relentlessly killing civilians under the pretext of war against
terror. In this regard, both the Pentagon and NATO are using various
sophisticated drones to kill innocent civilians and label them as
militants. The Western media constantly highlight the efficiency of
the drones so as other nations buy them in plenty.
War economy is not only mercilessly crushing civilians, it is active
to crush smaller nations or to pursue policies that ensure their
enslavement. Hence, the British Prime Minister Mr. David Cameron was
not worried about Kashmir and Pakistan when he visited new Delhi .
His attention was to sign an arm deal with India. According to
Indian media, Mr. Cameron was successful in his efforts to sell
India 57 Hawk jets worth $800 million.
One of the common ways of dealing with recession is creating wars.
The Western nations know well that wars are unjust and inhuman, yet
they promote them wherever and whenever possible to gain primacy,
influence and natural wealth of smaller and weaker nations. One
motive for wars and military spending is to promote employment and
higher economic growth. It is argued that the US and British
involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan wars is motivated and influenced
by their strong military-industrial complex to find more markets for
weapons abroad and to break the circle of recession. Wars invariably
lead to increase in government spending on military. This is usually
financed by a combination of tax and government borrowing. This
spending creates additional demand in the economy. It creates
employment in armament manufacturers.
History testifies that the US and UK prolonged the Second World War
through a massive extension of the military spending that helped
both achieve economic recovery. But the cost is huge. Over 60
million peoples were killed in the WWII. The cost of the war is
estimated at $1.5 trillion. However, the loss of property and
livelihood is beyond any stretch of imagination. Any attempt to
express that value in terms of money is futile. The resulting sums
reach astronomical figures that have little if any practical
meaning.
This war economy is no longer sustainable. It is leading to huge
human and material losses. It is creating enemies for the Western
nations. The WWII ended with US use of nuclear bombs against the
civilians in Japan. The ongoing war against the Muslims is producing
evil. It is creating suicide bombers, despair and even rejection of
life. The mighty Western powers and their allies should beware huge
number of suppressed people. They should realize that the waves of
evil could not spare them if they continue killing innocent
civilians under one pretext or another. This is not 1945. This is an
era of proliferation of mass destruction weapons. Desperate players
might resort to desperate measures. Reaction could come in a massive
way that would endanger the survivor of human race.
Distorted intelligence
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
The story of Iran’s nuclear scientist Shahram Amiri has surprised
all political observers. Iran was waging a media campaign against
the CIA accusing it of kidnapping the Iranian scientist. Suddenly
Amiri surfaced first with videotapes posted on YouTube and later in
the Embassy of Pakistan at Washington to claim that he was
kidnapped. Meanwhile, the US CIA claimed that Amiri defected to the
United States by his free will. Furthermore, the CIA claimed that
Amiri was given $ 5 million as a reward for giving detailed
information on the Iranian nuclear programme. Interestingly, the CIA
also conceded that Amiri couldn’t take the money with him when he
flew back to Tehran.
On his part, Amiri insisted that he was kidnapped in June 2009 by
CIA agents and he managed to escape his captors. However, Amiri gave
contradictory statements. Hence he lacked credibility and coherence.
In fact, the story of Amiri is shrouded in mystery. There are many
unanswered questions: Why would a defector go back especially when
he was given $ 5 million dollars? If, Amiri defected , how did the
CIA officials permit him to post videos in You Tube complaining
about his ordeals in the United States? If Amiri really planned
defection to the United States , why did he fail to arrange the exit
of his wife and child from Iran?
The stance of Iran is another mystery. Why did Iran permit a nuclear
scientist to travel abroad knowing fully well that CIA and Mossad
would follow him and might even assassinate him? Did Iran forget how
the Mossad followed the nuclear scientists of Iraq and assassinated
them? There should be another inner story to the high profile media
role played by Amiri. One possibility is that Amiri played the role
of a double agent. Iran was well aware of his plans of defection.
Most probably, Amiri was asked to leak certain information to the
CIA to mislead the US intelligence community and to see their areas
of interests vis-à-vis the Iranian nuclear programme.
All indications suggest that the CIA overestimate the importance of
Amiri. But once, the CIA was full of Amiri or when it realized that
his knowledge of the nuclear programme was general or limited, it
decided to release him. There could be another concealed aspect of
the kidnapping/defection of Amiri, which is presently unknown. There
could be a professional twist. One possible twist is that the CIA is
playing a game of wit with the Iranian intelligence. The CIA gave
the impression to the Iranians that they succeeded in the
intelligence game and won the media war. However, at an appropriate
time, the CIA is using the Iranian leak to their advantage through
the so-called game of “ distorted intelligence.”
In 2003, the Pentagon distorted intelligence on Iraq. The
intelligence agency of Saddam Hussain, Al-Mukhabarat, played a game
with the Pentagon to discourage the United States from invading
Iraq. Al-Mukhabarat leaked some information regarding Iraq’s
connection with Al-Qaeda and its weapons of mass destruction. The
DIA was aware of the true situation in Iraq. Hence, it used the
Iraqi leak to devastate Iraq.
The distortion of intelligence was very serious. DIA claimed that
Iraq had ties with Al-Qaeda. The distorted intelligence was prepared
by Mr. Douglas Feith, the Undersecretary of Defence. It played a
major role in convincing the US Congress to take the decision of
invading Iraq.
In fact, the Bush administration conceded, after the invasion of
Iraq, that the intelligence reports regarding Iraq’s weapons of mass
destruction were not true. The WMD was the second most important
justification to invade Iraq. One can see intelligence game and
counter-intelligence and how two US distorted intelligence reports
contributed to the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The irony is that the
United States has achieved its objective and invaded Iraq. However,
the US administration never thought that the invasion would cost
huge fortune and that the US would suffer losses estimated at
hundreds of billions of dollars over “ framing and taming” Iraq.
Distorted intelligence has created many fake stories. According to
the latest statistics , the US invasion of Iraq cost the US huge
losses estimated at $ 900 billions. It caused death of over one
million civilians and orphaned 4 million children. Even today, the
streets of Baghdad continue to witness suicide bombings, death and
evil.
If Amiri’s distorted intelligence is used to justify the invasion of
Iran or to justify using massive military power against its military
and economic infrastructure, devil would land in and would have a
field day against all and sundry.
Middle East in a flux
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
Islamabad—The myth of an invincible Israel is over. For quite
sometimes now, Tel Aviv was thought to do anything under the sun and
get away with it, but things started to happen everywhere in the
Muslim world following Israeli genocide of the innocent Palestinian
people in the Gaza Strip. The mighty Mossad and other Israeli
intelligence agencies failed to understand that Israel is decaying
as a result of atrocities it is committing against the Palestinian
and Arab people. A wind of change has already started along with
regional social change.
Things have transformed. The Middle East is witnessing a new
regional alliance that seeks to isolate the Zionist state. In fact
Israel has become a liability on its American and European allies
due to extreme policies that are based on hatred and war.
Earlier, Israel exploited differences between Turkey and the Arabs
to impose its polices on the region. Now, however, it is in no
position to use Turkey against the Arabs. In a major shift of
policy, Ankara has come so close to the Arabs that it might be
admitted to the Arab League.
The new realities on the ground suggest that Israeli atrocities have
radicalized everyone including the secular segments of the Muslim
society. Turkey has invited leaders from Hamas for talks in Ankara.
It proposed joint energy projects with Iran. Ankara also brokered
with Brazil a nuclear fuel deal with the Iranians when UN Security
Council and IAEA failed to resolve the nuke problem with Iran.
Following the Flotilla’s affairs, Tel Aviv is facing one problem
after another. Turkey is reported to have frozen at least 16 arms
deals with Israel worth an estimated $ 56 billion. Instead, Turkey
is strengthening its relations with Asian and African countries.
Recently, the relations with Syria and Iran witnessed marked
improvements. Damascus and Tehran are also cooperating with Ankara
to combat the new axis between PKK and Israel.
While the image of the United States deteriorated due to its
alliance with Israel, Turkey is raising its global profile. Ankara
is opening embassies everywhere, using trade as a major source of
building solid ties and seeking influence. Additionally, a
progressive-looking foreign policy of Ankara has enabled Turkey to
play a fruitful role in international affairs.
In the Middle East, Turkey has emerged to be the only state that can
influence the events and contain the present trend of using military
force and genocide of civil society to subjugate the nations of the
region.
The eastward tilt of Ankara is a welcome policy. It gives Turkey its
true character and identity. History has testified that the Western
nations are alien to the Muslim culture. They would continue the
same policy unless the Muslims go back to the basics and abide by
their culture and values. The Europeans quickly embraced the tiny
Christian Greece in the EU but continue to put obstacles before the
Muslim Turkey that extends in two continents. The problem is
obvious. The EU fears thousands of minarets that daily speak of the
Turkish identity.
Flotilla feud: Turkey red-lines Israel
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
Israel was in total control of the Middle East. It was playing its
role smoothly and one-sidedly. It managed to not only violate human
rights in occupied Palestine but also to get away with the genocide
of the unarmed civilians in Gaza. Both the United States and the
European Union looked the other way. Arabs and the Muslims have been
subjected to a sustained war on the pretext of involvement in
terror. Hence, Israel enjoyed a field day. It was hitting all and
sundry from all directions. Its Mossad used all technologies in the
world to float the world media with fake video and audio tapes of
Al-Qaeda . These tapes continue to remind the Western world that the
Arabs and the Muslims are the enemy and that Osama bin Laden plans
attacks on US cities with mass destruction weapons from the
primitive caves somewhere on the Pak-Afghan borders. But the mighty
Israel made a grave mistake in Iraqi Kurdistan.
The Mossad had always a presence in Kurdistan since it was fuelling
a Kurdish rebellion against the Iraqi state during the regime of
late Saddam Hussain. Tel Aviv decided to disintegrate the State of
Iraq when late Saddam Hussain threatened to annihilate Israel with
chemical and biological weapons. Following the US invasion of Iraq
in 2003, the Mossad’s presence increased manifolds in Iraq
especially in the Kurdistan . The Mossad had in mind a huge agenda
of creating chaos and anarchy that would engulf Iraq in a perpetual
civil war. There was, however, a new agenda of creating a state of
Turkish Kurdistan.
Having interacted with Israel, the Turkish authorities were watching
the Israeli moves very closely in the Kurdistan of Iraq. It was
found that the Mossad started to cross the red lines. The Mossad now
established direct contact with PKK, the outlawed Kurdish Workers
Party. The Israeli agents in Iraqi Kurdistan claimed that they were
advisors to PKK. But the Turkish soldiers operating in the region
outwitted the Mossad by exposing the real game of Israel behind
actively working with PKK.
It should be mentioned here that Turkey and international community
declared PKK as a terrorist outfit. Israel was well aware of this
fact when it was clandestinely scheming against Turkey. Israel went
on enable PKK to attack Turkish base at Iskenderun with missiles
that killed seven Turkish soldiers and wounded six more. The PKK
attack was timed with the Israeli attack on civilian ships in
international waters that killed nine Turkish pro-Palestinian
activists. The two incidents were hours apart. Evidently, Israel
wanted to convey a message to Ankara.
Furthermore, Israel was monitored actively working with the PKK by
using the so-called “ The Party for a Free Life in Kurdistan( PJAK).”
This party is the Iranian wing of PKK. It has been waging a war in
Western Iran.
Ostensibly, Israel miscalculated and made a grave mistake in playing
in the minefield of Kurdistan. Most probably, the Mossad was part of
the CIA and US Special Operations communities’ game that seeks to
destabilize Iran through playing the cards of PJAK in Iran. The
Israeli blunder is that it underestimated the Turkish role by
clandestinely training and supporting PKK .
Now, the worsening relations between Israel and Turkey have a hidden
side. The stakes are high. After more than 60 years of military
alliance, the bilateral defence and intelligence cooperation is
coming to an end. This split is the most outstanding drift in the
Middle East. It could be the beginning of a series of setbacks for
the Jewish state.
Turkish diplomacy reflects hope
Comment
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
Islamabad—Turkey has shown the way to the UN Security Council of how
to deal with matters pertaining to world security. Unfortunately,
the UNSC continues to rely on sanctions and collective siege and
punishment of the innocent people as a mean to tame smaller nations.
In case of Iran, the UNSC failed to come with any serious diplomatic
solution to the nuclear issue. It continues to be a hostage to the
policy of the United States, which uses its tremendous influence on
the other permanent members to ensure that its course of action
should be followed. If other members try to suggest some other
course, the US would threaten to use a Veto power.
While the United States was pressing for more sanctions against the
people of Iran, Turkey was engaged with Iran in serious talks
involving Brazil as well. Under the terms of the deal, Iran would
deposit most of its stock of low-enriched uranium in Turkey in
exchange, within a year later, for reactor fuel needed for research
and medical use.
Indeed, Turkey achieved an unprecedented diplomatic success while
other countries had been negotiating without result for many years.
All failed due to trust-deficit and non-seriousness of the talks.
What makes this deal very important is the fact that both Turkey and
Brazil are non-permanent members of the 15- seat Security Council.
Both, along with Lebanon, also oppose imposing more sanctions on
Iran.
The biggest disappointment is the stance of the US Secretary of
State Ms. Hillary Clinton who opposed the deal instead of working
with Turkey and Brazil to ensure resolving the dispute through
diplomatic means. In fact, Ms Clinton was pushing for new UNSC
sanctions against Iran. Ostensibly, the Obama administration has its
agenda against Iran. Hence Ms Clinton was surprised by the growing
assertiveness of Brazil, Latin America’s biggest economy, and NATO
member Turkey in carving out their own diplomatic tracks
independently of the United States.
The Turkish proactive diplomacy is a tribute to the peaceful vision
of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the diplomatic
skills of Turkish Foreign Minister Mr. Ahmet Davutoglu. The success
of this vision should make the United States and its Western allies
to end their diplomatic standoff over Iran’s nuclear programme,
which is geared towards peaceful purposes.
With this deal, all talks and plans to impose more economic
sanctions or to indirectly encourage Israel to attack Iranian
nuclear facilities should end. Such attitude is very dangerous. It
would escalate tension in the region. It can also lead to a
devastating war once sanctions were transformed into military
operations. One would remind Ms Clinton how 11 years of sanctions
destroyed the social fabric of the Iraqi society causing the death
of over two million civilians, mainly women and children, and
culminating in the US invasion in 2003. The US thesis of sanctions
and invading Iraq was based on reports that Iraq possessed mass
destruction weapons. Ironically, the Bush administration conceded,
following full control of Iraq, that reports on Iraqi weapons of
mass destruction were false and fabricated.
It is about time that Obama administration should revisit the failed
policy of sanctions and military operations. This policy has failed
in Pakistan, Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. It would definitely
fail in Iran. Presently, there is a state of stagnation in
diplomacy. Turkey has identified the problem and is trying to fill
the vacuum through its proactive diplomacy.
Peaceful co-existent , active diplomacy and zero fiction with
neighboring countries are the pillars of the global and regional
vision of Turkey. This policy has enabled Turkey to act as a
credible mediator in the Middle East, African and Europe. One hopes
that Western nations should learn from Turkey and desist from using
sanctions and military means to resolve regional and global issues.
Terrorists and internet syndrome
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
Most analysts believe that the leader of Al-Qaeda Osama bin Laden
died a long time ago. However, a powerful minority that controls the
media insists that he is alive. To prove that OBL is alive, some
companies including the so-called Al-Sihab have been engaged in
putting on various sites on the internet containing audio and video
messages of the leader of Al-Qaeda. Nobody knows as how Al-Sihab has
been able to escape the sophisticated American and Western
monitoring system through its unhindered access to the internet.
Again, there is no answer to the question of how could Al-Sihab
sustain itself for over a decade without being detected.
An interest aspect in this regard is the statement of former US
President George Bush that the message released by OBL to al-Jazeera
had helped him elected for the second term. OBL offered in that tape
a “ long-term truce” to allow rebuilding of Afghanistan and Iraq
while also making threats of “ new attacks” against the United
States. May be it was a slip of tong from the US President. There
was no truce in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, American never
witnessed another attack similar to 9/11. A careful study of the
messages of OML shows that the man and his organization have damaged
the cause of the Muslims by their extremist and false attempt to
portray Muslims as enemies of the United States and the West.
There are two explanations to this audio and video tapes phenomenon.
First, there are some rouge elements within anti-Muslim states or ,
Non-State Actors, who fake these messages and put them on the
internet or leak them to some television stations. The objective is
to use OBL to perpetuate the ordeals of the Muslims, to expel them
from America and Europe and to justify occupying their territories
and stealing their natural resources. The case of Iraq is a perfect
and living example.
Second, OBL, Al-Qaeda and other allied terrorists have been able to
acquire computer technology. These terrorists are using this
technology as a means of communication with each other and with the
rest of the world. Here comes the danger. Having access to computer
technology means that American and the advanced Western World is in
grave danger.
Computer knowledge means that terrorists, drug traffickers, arms
smugglers and the underworld can have access to some very sensitive
computers that control missile systems, banking systems data mining,
coordination of actions and security system.
Terrorists can also develop their own encryption tools to make the
internet an efficient and secure means of correspondence. Internet
can be a source of recruits and financing. Most dangerously,
internet can be used as a vehicle to launch an attack. Terrorists
can hack into electric grids and security system. They can paralyze
extremely sensitive computer system through launching a powerful
computer virus.
While the interest is very useful source of communication,
information and entertainment, it has been an arena used by the
terrorist and invisible forces to propagate their message, hatred
and confusion. Those with little knowledge of internet and compute
system can initiate an e-mail from Pakistan while sitting in New
York and vice-versa. Therefore, the American and Western security
agencies should be very vigilant and protect the internet from
terrorist attacks and schemes. They should not accuse other states
of terrorism without due investigation by cyber-police.
The US intelligence failure and schemes
Comment
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor IR
Islamabad: As expected , the US intelligence agencies are covering
up their failure in the NY Times Square failed bombings. Now, they
are shifting the blame on Pakistan. Imagine there are 16
intelligence agencies working in the United States and abroad. These
agencies include tactical military intelligence and security
organizations as well as those responsible for security responses to
transnational threat to include terrorism, cyber warfare and
computer security, covert employment of weapons of mass destruction,
narcotic trafficking and international organized crime. These
intelligence agencies have huge annual budget of $ 75 billion and
200,000 employees.
The general impression is that the US intelligence agencies have the
largest and very sophisticated centers in Pakistan since the tragic
events of 9/11. These agencies function with the active
collaboration of Western intelligence agencies and other most
trusted allies, old and new. Yet, they failed to monitor the
activities of Faisal Shahzad when he visited Pakistan in July last
year.
According to the leaked reports to the press, Faisal Shazad remained
in Pakistan for 5 months. He visited various places in Karachi,
Kohat, Peshawar and North Waziristan. He returned to the United
States to be given a “ hero welcome.” He was so much trusted by the
US intelligence and security agencies that he was awarded the US
Nationality. Now, everyone knows that American nationality is not
given to foreigners, especially of Pakistani origin, without
conducting a comprehensive investigation about the individual and
clearing him from every aspect. The procedure has become very tough
and almost impossible following 9/11. Hence, one would wonder as how
come that the US intelligence agencies failed to trace Faisal
Shahzad and his contacts? According to recent investigation held by
Pak security agencies, Faisal Shahzad used 17 Sims when he visited
Karachi last year. How could Pakistan obtain such information while
US agencies failed to have a clue ? It is unspeakable indeed.
Another interesting aspect is that Faisal Shahzad is amateurish
person. He used his real e-mail to buy the Nissan car from a car
dealer and left his residence keys along with keys of another car he
was driving inside the Nissan car, which he used in the failed
bombing of NY. The police could never have identified him that
quickly if he had not made the above two fatal errors.
This case shows that either the US intelligence agencies have failed
in performing their duties or the entire case is a covert operation
whose objective is exercising pressure on Pakistan . In either case,
the American agencies or rogue elements within them are wrong.
Creating hatred of such magnitude against their own citizens because
they happen to be Muslims breeds more negative reaction against
America from within the American society and in the Muslim world.
The Americans are unjustified to attack Pakistan for crimes
committed by an American citizen. America is a society of
immigrants. It is multi-ethnic society where people live from all
over the world. Hence, the Americans cannot claim that Faisal
Shahzad remains to be a Pakistani national even after acquiring
American nationality. He is as American as Mr. Barak Obama or Ms
Hillary Clinton. Pakistan cannot be blamed because this American
citizen is of Pakistani origin.
This case has been exploited by Zionist and Indian lobbies to spread
hatred against Pakistan and the Muslims. Pakistan is a frontline
state and an important ally of the United States in the war against
terror. The people of Pakistan are facing huge and unprecedented
security and economic difficulties because of this role. While
people are suffering from corrupt rulers and external dangers, it is
unjust to categorize everyone of them as terrorist and to spread
hatred against them.
It is extremely alarming that the US administration appointed the
Indian born US Federal Attorney Preet Bharara to spearhead the
persecution of Faisal Shahzad. Baharara is known for his connection
with the Zionist lobby in addition to his Indian connection. This is
a huge case of attempting to attack civilians with mass destruction
weapons. It needs to be conducted by a neutral person. Additionally,
Pakistan intelligence and security agencies should hold extensive
investigation to unveil all external and internal forces behind
Faisal Shahzad.
‘The insiders’ in NY failed bombing
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
Pakistan is back to square one. Following relatively successful
efforts to redefine the Pak-US relations, things seem to deteriorate
between the two countries following implicating Pakistan’s Taliban
in the failed bombing in New York’s Times Square.
The bad news is that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan ( TTP) claimed
responsibility for the failed bombing. Additionally, TTP leader
Hakimullah Mehsud suddenly surfaced when both Pak and US
intelligence agencies confirmed he was killed by a US drone on
January 14. Mehsud’s appearance is mind-boggling. He appeared at a
time when the Pakistani army was advancing on all fronts to secure
not only Waziristan but also the entire FATA region and to establish
the writ of the government on these volatile areas. Interestingly,
Mehsud assumed a high profile status. He seems to be a replacement
to Osama bin Laden , who is presumed dead. The invisible forces
would not like to end the failed clash of civilization . Every
effort is done to ensure the state of war and hatred between the
Christian and Muslim worlds. Now, Mehsud is giving statements to
some mysterious and unknown media sites. The latest was a video on
the internet threatening suicide attacks on major US cities.
Earlier, experts dismissed the possibility that TTP was in a
position to attack US cities. Surprisingly, however, a US citizen
born in Pakistan, Faisal Shahzad, was accused of driving the failed
car bomb into Time Square. This means that Mehsud was knowing what
he was talking about. Mehsud and those who are using his name or
cooperating with him have some agenda in mind.
TTP influence is confined to tribal areas and some places inside
Pakistan. It is living in accordance with tribal code and has never
seen the light of civilization. Hence, TTP is in no position to plan
sophisticated suicide bombing operation in the United States without
the help of other insiders who possess the knowledge, expertise and
logistics.
Additionally, Pakistan security agencies have constantly accused TTP
of links to foreign intelligence agencies especially RAW and Mossad.
If this connection is well established, the US agencies should
redirect their investigation to focus on the brains and the insiders
behind Mehsud and TTP.
Most certainly, there are some insiders behind this terrorist
operation. Those visible and invisible forces plan to sabotage the
Pak-US dialogue. Ultimately, such operation should push the United
States to exercise more pressure on the Pak army to extend its
operation in a massive way. A scenario is schemed to make Pakistan
another Iraq through the failed policy of using force against all
and sundry. On the other hand, the insiders plan to remind the Obama
administration that it is mistaken in its approach that solving the
Israel-Palestine conflict would end the terrorist threats to US. The
message is clear: TTP, Al-Qaeda and their militant allies are
actively working to kill Americans and destroy the United States.
Hence, the failed operations is to convey a message to Obama
administration that it should give up exercising pressure on Israel
to resolve the Middle East issue on the basis of establishing an
independent Palestinian state on the occupied territories.
The investigation in the failed New York attack should be thorough.
It must cover all accused players and insiders. No investigation is
complete or just if it fails to include the beneficiaries from
committing such heinous crimes against civilians.
The greatest crime against the US civilians and American interests
would be committed if the investigators ignored the anti-Muslim
lobbies in the United States.
Such attitude would only encourage special groups and lobbies to
commit more crimes and terror operations and gravely endanger the
vital interests of the American people.
Widening cracks within Indian RAW
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
The arrest of the Indian diplomat Ms Madhuri Gupta on charges of
spying for Pakistan is a serious development. It shows that there is
something seriously wrong with India’s external Intelligence agency
RAW( Research and Analysis Wing). RAW was depicted by the local and
Indian media as a formidable intelligence agency that is behind
major events in South Asia. Some analysts went to the extend of
claiming that RAW became the “ Mother of All Agencies,” due to
strategic ties with CIA and Mossad. However, Gupta’s case and other
similar cases show that there is inherent weakness in the rusted
RAW. It also shows that there is no substance in shifting the blame
on Pakistani agencies in matters pertaining to the failure of RAW
and other Indian agencies to stop some very serious terrorist
operations against India.
RAW’s recent failure is similar to the CIA failure in stopping
massive terrorist campaign against the United States in 9/11. The
failure of CIA and other US intelligence agencies was so
comprehensive that many analysts and thinkers advocated an “ inside
job” in planning or at least executing 9/11.
Earlier, Indian intelligence agencies were clueless about Kargil
operation that caught the Indian army in total surprise. Similarly
RAW could not penetrate the Indian separatist movements. It
extensively relied on blaming Pakistan to cover up the mess inside
RAW.
According to the Indian media, RAW and sensitive Indian institutions
were penetrated by foreign spies. In 2006, the Delhi Police arrested
SS Paul, a computer systems operator at the National Security
Council(NSC). Later investigation showed that SS Paul passed on NSC
documents to Rosanna Minchew, a CIA operative working under cover as
a Third Secretary at the United States’ Embassy in New Delhi.
In 2004, the RAW was devastated by the defection of Rabinder Singh
to the United States. Sigh was a senior officer who had handled very
sensitive covert operations. The CIA recruited him following reports
indicating decoding cipher traffic generated by the US mission in
Islamabad. Nobody knows as to why RAW found it important to spy on
US Embassy in Pakistan even as Washington and New Delhi are
strategic partners. In fact the so-called “ trust- deficit” between
RAW and CIA is a characteristic of the Indian intelligence in
dealing with all member states of SAARC.
Lack of professionalism within RAW suppressed the role of Hindutva
in 26/11 who perpetrated Babri Mosque, Godhra Train fire, Gujrat
Massacre, killing of Christians, Malegoan bombing, Samjhuta Express
and many other operations against minorities.
Unfortunately RAW continues to engage in disinformation campaigns,
espionage and sabotage against Pakistan and other neighbouring
countries. On the other hand the RAW failed in dealing with
separatist movements in Manipur and Tripura in the northeast, Tamil
Nadu in the south and Punjab and Kashmir in the northwestern part of
the country.
RAW is in a state of decline due to poor service conditions and
promotion prospects. It is finding immense difficulties including
problems retaining new recruits.
Other problems that RAW face include badly needed specialists,
trouble drawing talents and in-house cadre lack. RAW is chronically
suffering from vision deficit in facing emerging problems.
Pak-Saudi ties unaffected by media gossip
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is in the news again. A section of media
published conflicting stories about the motives behind the visit of
Gen. Pervez Musharraf to Saudi Arabia. Some newspapers publish
stories about the meeting that gave the impression that they were
represented during one-to-one meeting ! In the internet, all sorts
of negative stories were floated. These stories are false since
every Pakistani is ready to embrace martyrdom defending the holy
land of Saudi Arabia.
Moreover, the new Saudi Ambassador Mr. Abdul Aziz Ibrahim Al-Ghadeer
stated very clearly that the ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan
were unique and enduring. The reason is obvious. The bilateral ties
are not person or party specific . They are based on sate-to state .
The Saudis continue to support Pakistan under every government since
the overriding concern of the Saudi leadership is the welfare,
progress and prosperity of the people of Pakistan.
Therefore, one would disagree with the statement of PML-N leader Mr.
Nawaz Sharif on delinking Saudi Arabia from Pakistan’s politics
simply because King Abdullah extended invitation to Gen. Pervez
Musharraf and received him as a royal guest. One would like to
remind Mr. Nawaz Sharif of how King Abdullah bailed him out from
life imprisonment and how he enabled him to return to Pakistan.
Obviously, the overriding concern of King Abdullah was to ensure
security and stability of Pakistan. Hence one would like to ask as
what is wrong with inviting former President Gen. Musharraf and
Interior Minister Rehman Malik as royal guests especially when the
nation is facing tremendous controversy over the trial of Gen.
Musharraf. Evidently, King Abdullah felt concerned and wanted to
give the leaders of Pakistan a message that they should follow the
policy of reconciliation and compromise . It was a noble and bold
message to all politicians emanating from a wise leader and well
wisher of Pakistan. Undoubtedly Mr. Nawaz Sharif should grasp this
message very well in the higher interests of Pakistan.
Saudi Arabia is indeed an exception. It does not have any agenda in
Pakistan. Unlike Western countries, the Saudis never attach any
conditionalities to the aid they give to Pakistan. This shows their
love and affection for this nation and respect for its sovereignty
and national independence. Therefore, Saudi gestures to the
politicians can never be categorized as interference into internal
politics since Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are “ one country with two
systems.”
For the Pakistanis, Saudi Arabia is also unique since it is the
birthplace of the Islamic faith. Everything in Saudi Arabia is
sanctified. Therefore, the relations are very special and unique. No
ruler can ever think of undermining these ties. Similarly no
government can dare to ignore this spiritual aspect in the bilateral
relations.
During early 1970s , Pakistan was facing tremendous economic crisis
while going through building process. Saudi Arabia came to the
rescue of Pakistan during these testing times .It was Saudi Arabia’s
generous assistance in various sectors that enabled Pakistan to
rebuild its economy successfully.
Pakistan found itself under a huge economic crunch during the late
1980s and again in the mid-nineties. Once again timely assistance
from Saudi Arabia helped the government to bring the economy back on
track. The financial Saudi assistance was a reflection of brotherly
relations between the two countries.
Under the dynamic and wise leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah
bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, the relations were institutionalized. He
sought to strengthen Saudi relations with Pakistan by signing five
agreements on promoting relations in virtually every field. He
championed the cause of Pakistan at every international fora.
The two countries cooperate in the field of combating terrorism. The
Saudi leadership considers terrorism a curse which is against the
basic injunctions of Islam. Islam is a religion of peace and
harmony. It forbids violence. It is against all acts that bring any
harm to the innocent people. It preaches tolerance, mutual
accommodation and co-existence.
Guided by these Islamic principles, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia remain
committed to eliminating terrorism. They have expressed their full
readiness to cooperate with all international efforts to combat
terrorism. They believe that all states have to firmly tackle
perpetrators of terror crimes, chase them and take legal measures
against them within the percepts of Islam, regional obligations as
well as bilateral accords. In addition, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia
cooperate with countries and organizations, both at the regional and
international levels, to fight terrorism and terror crimes.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have taken a number of major initiatives
to fight this menace. These initiatives include administrative,
financial and other measures to contain, combat and eradicate this
phenomenon. In addition, the two countries introduced reforms in the
educational and economic fields in conformity with their position in
the war on terror.
Being an important Muslim state and the custodian of the Harmain Al
Sharfain, the Government of Saudi Arabia has always been very keen
to provide all Muslims with extensive facilities to enable them to
perform the rituals in the Holy Land. In this context, billions of
dollars have been invested to expand as well as modernize the Holy
Ka’aba and the Masjid-e-Nabvi and add new facilities around the holy
places.
Under the dynamic leadership of King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, the
Government has been able to create a congenial atmosphere of peace
and harmony both on regional and global levels by sponsoring
inter-faith dialogue. Saudi Arabia is working for the “dialogue of
civilization” rather than the so-called “clash of civilization.”
The Pak- Saudi ties are reciprocal and eternal. This has been
demonstrated by the leadership, the Government and people of Saudi
Arabia to the people of Pakistan through their effort to alleviate
the suffering of the victims of earthquake and IDPs . The Government
and people of Saudi Arabia spontaneously reacted to these people by
extending donations in the efforts to rebuild and rehabilitate the
devastated areas including the rebuilding of the infrastructure.
Arabs condemn US attack on Syria
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor, IR
THIS time the Arabs were unanimous. All Arab countries including
Arab League condemn the unprovoked US October 26 attack on Syrian
border village Al-Bukamal that left 8 dead including women and
children. The most outstanding stance came from Iraq. Reacting to
the attack, the Iraqi lawmaker Osama Najafi stated, “ The US forces
violated the Iraqi constitution when it bombed houses inside the
Syrian soil from the Iraqi territory,” noting laws that ban the use
of Iraqi territory as the launching point for attacks on
neighbouring countries.
And at the site of the attack, the Syrian television showed the
villagers organizing large processions and chanting anti-US slogans
at a funeral for the eight victims. Criticism also poured in from
Lebanon, where the attack was denounced by both the President and
Prime Minister.
Another peculiarity about the October 26 attack is that it comes at
a time when the US forces are planning major withdrawal of troops
from Iraq thus, there is no dire need for Washington to strike in
Syria. Indeed, when the situation was very volatile in Iraq, the US
administration commended the Syrian policy of sealing borders with
Iraq. In other words, the raid appears to be totally unjustified.
Of course, this is not the first mysterious incident in Syria; in
September 2007, Israeli fixed-wing aircraft struck a building
claimed to be a Syrian nuclear weapons facility near the Turkish
border. However, subsequent investigation and inspection by IAEA
proved that the Israeli claim was not correct.
The US attack against Syria is mind-boggling. The Syrian President
Mr. Bashar Al-Assad has recently showed some extra-ordinary
freshness. He used his influence to end the constitutional crisis in
Lebanon by accepting Doha’s mediation. He took the unprecedented
step of establishing diplomatic relations with Lebanon even as a
large segment of Lebanese political and social forces opposed the
move. Assad also combined with the French President Sarkozy to
diffuse a potential civil war in Lebanon. As a result, Lebanon
witnesses today a healthy process of national reconciliation.
Most importantly, Assad combined with Turkey to hold talks with
Israel, when he received signals from the Israeli Prime Minister
Olmert assurances that he was ready to negotiate withdrawing the
Israeli forces from the occupied Golan Heights. Initially the talks
were secret but both sides were so confident that they owned the
talks.
Earlier, in April 2007, Assad invited the US House Speaker Ms. Nancy
Pelosi to Damascus. Pelosi listened attentively to the views of
Assad on variety of subjects including Iraq, Lebanon, Israel and the
commitment of Syria to fighting terror. Syria is now a main player
in the region despite massive efforts to marginalize its role by
vested interests and pressure groups. Damascus has also shown a
considerable freshness and flexibility in dealing with the thorny
issues of the Middle East. Probably, this is the main reason behind
the notion among the Arabs that says the road to Damascus is the
road to peace in the Middle East.
Libyan First September function: time to rejoice
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor(IR)
On the occasion of the Great First September Revolution, the
Secretary of the People’s Bureau of The Great Socialist People’s
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Mr. Ibrahim E. Mukhtar Henitish and all
members of the Bureau hosted a grand reception at the Marquee Hall,
Marriot Hotel to celebrate the event. This year seems to be special
since the Libyans played national songs to show their rejoice in a
new Libya. Hence there was a festive mood in the function, giving
you hope in this great nation.
The 1st September is a special occasion. On 1st September 1969
Libyan revolution asserted the sovereignty and dignity of the
country by ridding it of foreign military presence and giving back
economic power to its citizens. The revolution has quickly
transformed the Libyan nation into a modern welfare state.
Col. Muammar Al-Qaddafi has given up the title of head of state. He
is called “Brother Qaddafi” and “the leader of the revolution.”
Qaddafi established for every Libyan a national pride and identity.
In addition to the economic and social achievements, there is
notable progress in human rights promotion , economic welfare and
transformation in Libyan relations with all nations especially Arab,
African and European nations. The era of sanction has gone for ever
thanks to the wisdom and sagacity of the Libyan leader Col. Muammar
Al-Qaddafi in tactfully dealing with intense and unjust foreign
pressure on Libya.
The Libyan leader’s most outstanding achievements was the
Declaration of People’s Authority . In March, Qaddafi himself led
the march to celebrate the 31st anniversary of Jamahiriya in Libya’s
desert town of Sehba, about 1000 kilometers south of the capital
Tripoli.
Mr. Ibrahim took the chief guests Mr. Jehangir Badr and Ms Sherry
Rehman to the dais . They were joined by the Libyan Military Attaché
Colonel Ali Mohamed Hashim Ali and the ambassadors of Morocco,
Qatar, Bahrain and Somalia. There were a large number of envoys,
diplomats and military attaches from Africa, Asia, and Western
nations including the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Mr. Sapar
Berdiniyazov.
A large number of intellectuals, thinkers also attended. Both print
and electronic media were invited. The one aspect that struck deep
inside everyone was the national anthem of the Great People’s
Socialist People’s Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, “All-o-Akbar.” The
audience this time twice clapped. First for “Allah-o-Akbar” and
second for the Pakistani national anthem.
During his stay in Islamabad of less than 3 year, Mr. Ibrahim has
made many friends. He is an intellectual and religious-minded
personality. Those who interact with him can tell you that he
champions the causes of Pakistan. Additionally, he has worked hard
to promote the bilateral relations on political economic and
cultural levels.
A farewell to 4 Ambassadors
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
FOUR more active and popular ambassadors are leaving Islamabad. The
Dean of Diplomatic Corps Mr. Sapar Berdiniyazov hosted a reception
at Serena Hotel to bid farewell to the
Tunisian Ambassador Dr. Zouhaier Dhaouadi, the German Ambassador Dr.
Gunter Mulack, the Japanese Ambassador Mr. Seiji Kojima and the
Afghan Ambassador Mr. Mohammad Anwar Anwarzai. However, the envoys
of Japan and Germany could not attend the function since they were
outside the federal capital. Kojima, left a message to his fellow
colleagues thanking them for cooperation. Mr. Berdiniyazov read the
message.
The Dean paid rich tributes to the Tunisian Ambassador Dhaouadi, who
completed his tenure of four years in Pakistan. Dhaouadi, responded
by stating that he learnt a lot during his stay in Islamabad and
thanked the Dean and his colleagues for cooperating with him. He
extended to all an open invitation to visit him in Tunisia.
Throughout his stay Dhaouadi was known by his social activity and
diplomatic skills . He was keen to attend all the functions of the
Dean. He also maintained some excellent contact with the media.
Dhaouadi has long association with media. He is an intellectual,
author and futurist.
His friends would always miss his kindness, generosity, humbleness,
and sharp political observations. He belongs to a completely
different class of diplomatic school that combines intellect ,
moderation and rational thinking.
Anwarzai is leaving Pakistan after serving just one year here. The
Dean spoke very high of him and commended his efforts to promote the
bilateral relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anwarzai said that he tried to
initiate a new era of bilateral relation between Afghanistan and
Pakistan that was based on coexistence. He expressed his hope that
the bilateral relations would further be promoted.
The Dean declared that there would be no morning receptions in
September since Pakistani people would observe fasting during the
holy month of Ramazan. He extended congratulation for the people and
government of Pakistan on the occasion of Independence and advent of
holy month of Ramzan. He hoped that the nation would be able to
overcome every crisis.  |
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The Chinese have their own dream!
Dr Jassim Taqui
Shanghai—Interaction with Mr. Ma Xuejie, Deputy Director General,
Bureau of Culture, Broadcasting and Television Administration in
Shanghai was the most interesting. In an open and candid discussion
Mr. Xuejie proclaimed “Like the Americans, the Chinese have their
own dream. The Chinese dream, however, is different. It is called
Socialist Market Economy. Its objective is to better the living
standard of the people in a gradual manner.”
The brain behind Socialist, Market Economy policy or “One China two
systems” was the legendary leader Mr. Deng Xiaoping.
According to Xuejie, China has not given up its Marxist ideology. It
has only introduced reform in the system, using market economy as a
vehicle to improve the living conditions of the poor.
Ostensibly, the middle course policy and the application of gradual
and slow social change seem to deliver. It is universally recognized
that China has evolved sound and dynamic economic system and rising
international influence. This Chinese Dream has become a reality.
Today, it constitutes one of the most important elements of
international relations in the early 21st century.
In the initial stages of the Chinese Dream, China is making global
economic impact. China has attained high growth rates (over 10 per
cent per annum) for the past twenty years, driven particularly by
high domestic savings, large inflows of foreign direct investment
and economic reforms which have included a large role for the
private sector.
A major element in growth is China’s rapid rise as an exporter of
manufactured goods. China’s growth has raised living standards for
many millions of people.
China’s remarkable economic transition is being led and managed by
the Chinese Communist Party’s ‘fourth generation’ of leaders headed
by President Hu Jintao, who is seeking to combine high growth with
reductions in socio-economic inequalities.
To ensure a stable national environment, China has improved
relations with its neighbours and major partners including India,
Russia and the European Union. China has also increased
significantly its multilateral engagement, both in existing groups
and in new forums it has established (such as the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization). A principal focus in foreign relations is
to secure the resources needed for continued growth, which is
increasing the profile of China’s relations with resource-producing
countries in Asia , Africa and Latin America.
The capacity and sophistication of China’s conduct of foreign
relations have been upgraded markedly and China has also greatly
enhanced its image through social, cultural and educational links,
especially in East Asia. China’s economic growth is also
facilitating a programme of modernization of its military forces to
introduce new equipment and improved operational capacities. A major
focus of these developments has been to increase China’s capacities
in the vicinity of Taiwan.
China’s single most important international relationship is with the
world’s dominant superpower, the United States. Since relations were
normalized in 1979, China and the US have developed many areas of
cooperation and a most important economic relationship, while
simultaneously having areas of difference and dispute especially
over Taiwan. Beijing insists that Taiwan is an integral part of
China and that Taiwan would never be compromised under any
circumstances.
China has a close and growing economic relationship with Japan but
political relations remain clouded due to differences over Taiwan.
On the Korean peninsula, China has since the early 1990s developed
very close relations with South Korea, with extensive trade,
investment and educational links. With North Korea, China opposes
the North’s nuclear programme and has actively sponsored the Six
Party Talks process since 2003.
Chinese political, economic and trade relations have also witnessed
substantial success with ASEAN, the Asia Pacific Economic
Cooperation group, Southwest Pacific, Australia and South Asia.
Xuejie, however, insists that the Chinese Dream would be fulfilled
when the Chinese Communist Party ensures harmonious social welfare
among all sections of the people. Until, this goal is achieved, the
struggle would continue.
The Shanghai miracle
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Shanghai—Being in the majestic city of Shanghai is always an
education. Interacting with Mr. Shao Huixing, Deputy Director
General of Shanghai Foreign Affairs gives you the vision and the
brainy mind of an administration that thinks of futuristic plans
accordingly. The theme becomes very clear. You should think, change
your mindset and be innovative to prove your distinctive identity
and to live in a state of freedom that releases you energy and
creativity.
In order to safeguard your sovereignty and independence, you should
achieve economic dependence and work hard for the welfare of your
people. This is exactly what the leadership of the city has done to
Shanghai. The city has undergone historic changes and has become one
of the largest economic centers of China.
The people here are not influenced by any model. They have the model
of their own. They influence other nations rather than get
influenced by them. The people realize that their identity is well
established by influencing the global events and not vice-versa.
Hence an economic miracle has been achieved along with some
outstanding social and political change.
The GDP stands today to be 1200 billion Yuan thank to Shanghai
export and import estimated to be 5201 billion dollars in 2007.
Every nation wants today to invest in Shanghai due to investment
friendly policies , peace and stability in the city . Hence, in 2007
total investment was estimated to be $ 446.586 billion. The city
realized a total industrial output of $ 2300 billion in iron and
steal, automobile, petrochemicals. Electronics and heavy industry.
In short, Shanghai has established itself to be the genuine miracle
of China. It continues to progress in every field to be the pride of
Asia, China and the whole world. Mr. Huixing attributes this
development to the opening up of China by the Chinese legendry
leader Mr. Deng Xiaoping thirty years ago. Late Deng Xiaoping set an
example and was a visionary leader. He knew that the only way to
liberation is to achieve economic independence and to open up to the
world. Deng Xiaoping policies are now in action. His moderation,
perception and promotion of the cause of the poor and downtrodden
and fully empowerment of women are crystal clear in many provinces
of China especially in Shanghai.
Shanghai is very ambitious. It is aspiring to be number one not only
in Asia but also in the world. Hence it is preparing for World Expo
2010. The city was made a twin city of Karachi. According to Mr.
Huixing the local government is paying keen interest to the
environmental protection and urban greening. In 2007, Shanghai
invested 36.6 billion Yuan on environmental protection and reduction
of pollutant emission.
What makes the city unique is its emphasis on promotion of culture.
The city successfully hosted a series of major cultural events
including Shanghai International Arts Festivals , Shanghai
International Festival, and Shanghai International Garment Cultural
Festival. Huixing disclosed that Shanghai won 210 prizes at
important national and international art and cultural events in the
year 2007.
Soccer semi-final of Beijing 2008 Olympics would be played in
Shanghai. Hence, large number of tourists are expected to flood the
city. Shanghai normally received 6.6 tourist last year. In this year
much more tourists are expected.
Shanghai hosted 21 international sports events including the 12th
Special Olympics World Summer Games and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007.
Five Shanghai athletes won 7 world championships at major
international sport events.
The scheme against Chinese Tibet
Dr Jassim Taqui
Beijing—A group of media-persons from SAARC visited Tibet Museum at
Beijing. The visit was arranged by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign
Affairs. Having spent over an hour seeing various parts of the
Museum, one got a very clear message: Historically, Tibet is an
integral part of China. And China would never comprise on this
strategic region.
However, one felt that the Tibet of China is under threat. Chinese
were visibly worried. Tibet has made recently some noise in the
Western media. And just before the Beijing 2008 Olympics, the
Western media resurrected the so-called Tibet issue and the
activities of Dalai Lama.
Close to this region, the NATO forces have entrenched themselves in
Afghanistan. The nearby tribal areas of Pakistan is mysteriously
destabilized and stuffed with large number of militants and weapons.
Suddenly, a news is leaked to the media stating that Osama bin Laden
was spotted in K-2 region and that NATO might move in to arrest him.
Earlier, the Western media claimed that Osama bin Laden was hiding
in mountains that are located in the Chinese territories and moves
from it into Pakistani border.
The resurrection of Tibet at this time is mind boggling. Both India
and Western powers have concentrated on Tibet to create instability,
regionalism and factionalism in China. Ironically, nature has
protected this region with the solid wall of the high mountains of
the Himalayas. There is no way that any power would penetrate
through it. But the danger might be created from within.
By embracing Dalai Lama, India is planning to induce population
migration into Tibet. This population migration, could turn Tibet
into an extension of India and, over time, become a potential base
for Indian power. If that were to happen, India’s strategic frontier
would directly touch Sichuan and Yunnan — the Chinese heartland.
In fact India never hides its intention. It is within this period
that New Delhi made two tests on China- Specific Agni ballistic
missiles that are capable of carrying nuclear weapons and hit all
major cities in China.
On the long run, India would create instability in Tibet and
Xinjiang to deprive China of strategic territories and to break down
the vast buffers between China and the rest of Eurasia. This
explains the fact that the Indians are using the Dalai Lama as a
puppet and make him move and create media stir whenever the Indians
and their Western allies dictate.
In fact, the latest unrest in Tibet is instigated by the Indian
government, which uses the Dalai Lama to try to destabilize the
Chinese Tibet and open the door to Indian strategic plans.
Most certainly, the Indians are not running the show alone. They
have changed ideology following the demise of the Soviet Union. They
established China-specific strategic partnership with the United
States since 2001.
The trouble in Tibet is being created when the Chinese government is
occupied with security issues as the Olympics approach. One should
not also dismiss the possibility that the Indians are in fact
playing an American secret role similar to the one Washington played
in supporting the so-called “color revolution” in former Soviet
Union.
The American think-tanks thought that China was without option since
Beijing would never venture a move against Taiwan. However, Beijing
has already made a political move through strengthening political,
economic and military ties with Russia.
Future depends on strong Sino-Russian ties: Medvedev
Dr Jassim Taqui
Beijing—The first maiden visit of the Russian President, Mr. Dmitry
Medvedev, to People’s Republic of China has been very well received
here. The visit is seen as a landmark in promoting bilateral
relations between Moscow and Beijing. Its timing is also an
indication that Medvedev intends to continue with the policies of
former Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Strategists believe that the visit would have far-reaching
implications on South Asia, Europe and the Middle East. It would
influence virtually the entire global political issues including the
war on terrorism, resolving global issues and activating the United
Nations in conflict resolution everywhere in Asia, Africa and
Europe. It is so because China and Russia, who are both permanent
members of UN Security Council oppose militarilism and the use of
force to achieve foreign policy objectives.
The visit is a testimony of a dynamic Chinese foreign policy.
Beijing has patiently and persistently worked hard to improve the
political and military relations with Moscow to balance the US
global domination especially following Indo-US strategic
partnership.
This reading is based on the joint condemnation of the US missile
defence plans. Both Mr. Medvedev and the Chinese President Hu Jintao
indirectly criticized the US missile system in the joint communiqué
by stating “the creation of global missile defense systems and their
deployment in some regions of the world does not help to maintain
strategic balance and stability and hampers international efforts in
arms control and nuclear nonproliferation.”
Beijing and Moscow are engaged in economic development. Hence, both
oppose the deployment of arms in space and missile and nuclear armed
race even as they support use of nuclear energy for peaceful
purposes.
Similarly, a message was sent to both Washington and New Delhi when
Russia and China signed a US$1 billion deal to build a uranium
enrichment facility in China for peaceful purposes. The deal
envisages supplying Beijing with low-enriched uranium. Evidently,
this agreement would enhance Chinese policy of modernizing nuclear
power plants.
One can easily understand the concern of Beijing and Moscow .
Beijing genuinely feels threatened by the decision of the Bush
administration to deploy in Japan and Taiwan anti-missile defences.
Similarly , Moscow has been nervous over the planned US deployment
of missile defence sites in Poland and the Czech Republic.
Another aspect is the Sino-Russia fear from the expansion of NATO
with a view of containing both Russia and China. NATO is eying
Georgia and Ukraine. It is also prolonging deployment of its forces
in Afghanistan under the guise of fighting terrorism.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has been clear minded. When he was
questioned by Beijing University students on science and education,
he stressed, “The future depends on a strong and vibrant
Russia-China relationship.”
The closer Sino-Russian cooperation is putting New Delhi in a
dilemma. India cannot afford annoying its strategic Russian ally to
appease Washington. New Delhi would have to adjust its policy with
the strong affinity between Moscow and Beijing. It has to be in the
camp of the emerging “Asianism” especially when all members of SAARC
have openly identified themselves with this trend.
Soon, New Delhi would find its way. And the best way to deal with
the so-called “threat perception” is to opt for dialogue. This can
be achieved by resolving its border disputes with its neighbours
through peaceful means and in a spirit of compromise and mutual
accommodation.
It is a suicidal for New Delhi to go with the US policy of
destabilizing China through using Tibet as a strategic starting
point . Such “spoiler role” or “regional superpower role” would
destabilize India and the entire region of South Asia.
Shenzhen’s step towards democracy
Dr Jassim Taqui
Shenzhen—The Shenzhen local government published a draft of a
document titled “Shenzhen Future Reforms” on its Web site for the
public to comment upon . The draft summarizes tentative plans for
political, administrative, economic and cultural reforms in Shenzhen
and describes 19 key tasks, including the holding of mayoral
elections in Shenzhen when “conditions allow.” Members of the
regional National People’s Congress will be allowed to run directly
in these elections.
By conducting China’s “intraparty democracy” experiment in Shenzhen,
Chinese President Hu Jintao is paying homage to the legacy of Deng
Xiaoping and signaling that if the test proves successful,
intraparty democracy will spread to the rest of China.
The document is a result of the National People’s Congress in March,
when “intraparty democracy” the Chinese Communist Party (CPC)
version of “rule by consensus” was put in place as one of the key
planks of Chinese President Hu Jintao”s legacy. The groundwork for
the Shenzhen experiment originally was laid in March when Wang Yang,
secretary of the CPC’s Guangdong Provincial Committee, visited
Shenzhen and officially announced that the city would “set an
example for the nation.” Such initiatives have been tried at the
village level before but never in as large or as prominent a city as
Shenzhen.
Long a showcase for new ideas from the center, Shenzhen was one of
the original sites of Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping’s groundbreaking
economic, political and social reform programs and was home to
China’s first special economic zone. By formally launching China’s
intraparty democracy experiment in Shenzhen, Hu is paying direct
homage to Deng’s legacy and signaling that if this test proves
successful, intraparty democracy will spread to the rest of China.
The province of Guangdong has never built the political power base
that Shanghai has, so this latest spotlight on Shenzhen does not
signal an impending central government “crackdown” on disobedient
local officials.
Beijing wants to build some sense of accountability in the
prevailing system and emphasize that the party and government are
owned by the people.
China ranked 1st in foreign exchange
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Beijing—China has achieved a tremendous economic success since the
start of reform in 1978. It is now ranked the 1st in foreign
exchange as compared to beyond 100 in 1978. Similarly it is ranked
3rd in both world trade and FDI( Foreign Direct Investment) and 4th
in GDP, which is averaging now 9.92-9.9,”stated Secretary, Ministry
of Commerce Mr. Wu Zhengpin at a press briefing here.
Presently, China is pioneer in the export of electric fans, cell
phones, LCD, containers, microwave oven, DVDs, recorders, shoes,
colour TVs, bicycles, cameras and motorcycles. Chinese foreign trade
jumped from $20.6 billion in 1978 to 42.7 trillion in 2007.The share
of finished products rose from 46% in 1978 to 94.5% in 2007.
Explaining the “Go Global policy,” Mr. Zhengping disclosed that in
2007, the Outbound Investment stood at $ 18.7 bn in more than 30000
overseas enterprises in 160 countries and regions
During 2007, China signed in the field of Contracting Engineering $
85.3 bn out of which $ 47.9 bn turnover realized.
The Chinese trade with SAARC countries is about $51 billion with
India stands as the major trade partner. The trade volume in 2007
stood at $ 38 billion. Chinese export to India was $24 billion while
it imported commodities from India estimated at $ 14 billion. China
would further improve trade and investment with India.
The trade volume with Pakistan in 2007 stood at $6.5 billion with
Chinese export estimated at $ 5.4 billion while Pakistan managed to
export to China goods worth 1.1 billion.
Mr. Zhengping noted that China signed FTA agreement with Pakistan ,
which is the first of its kind with SAARC countries. Presently,
China is negotiating with Pakistan extension of the FTA to services
sector including insurance, financial, transportation and logistic
aspects.
China keen to develop coop with SAARC: He Yafei
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Beijing—“China is keen to develop economic and regional cooperation
with members of SAARC based on the 5 principles of co-existence,”
stated Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. He Yafei while
formally meeting a media delegation from SAARC at the Chinese
Ministry of Foreign Affairs . Yafei pointed out that China was
linked physically with South Asia and was also involved in the
formulation of the five principles of co-existence since 1949.
Yafei highly commended the relief to the victims of Chinese
earthquake that Beijing received from international community
especially from the neighbouring countries. He particularly thanked
Pakistan, which donated 10,000 tents or 50 percent of its entire
stock of tents, the sympathy, solidarity and sentiments showed by
the people and government of Pakistan.
Speaking on the devastating earthquake, Yafei said that China was
facing a formidable challenge due to heavy losses and massive
demands of reconstruction and rehabilitation. He stated that the
Chinese nation was fully united and were determined to overcome this
natural disaster. Speaking on the reform in China, Yafei stated that
the nation was celebrating 70 years of reform that had brought about
massive social change and huge economic development.
Answering a question on joining SAARC, Yafei noted that China
participated in the last SAARC summit as observer and proposed
projects, which had been appreciated by member-states including
training of diplomats, poverty alleviation and promoting trade with
SAARC. Yafei disclosed that the volume of trade with SAARC countries
reached 50 billion, registering a sharp increase of 45 percent.
He said that China was looking to people-to-people exchanges, and
diversifying regional cooperation.
On relations with smaller countries, Yafei said , “China believes
that small and big countries are equal members of international
community.” He appreciated the steps taken by the government of
Nepal to deter Tibetans from stoning the Chinese Embassy in
Kathmandu and to illegally enter Chinese territories with the
objective of “involvement in arsons instigated by outside forces.”
He said that Beijing was ready to support Nepal in reconstruction,
economic assistance and building infrastructure.
Similarly, Yafei stated that China had committed $ 60 million to
Bangladesh and would provide all assistance possible to it in
building infrastructure and promoting economic development.
Speaking on relations with Sri Lanka, Yafei reiterated, “There is no
hidden agenda behind Chinese assistance to Colombo.” Hinting at
restriction of Western aid to Sri Lanka due to human rights
violation, Yafei pointed out that China also respected human rights
“but no country is perfect in human rights record. Human rights
should ensure the right to live with basic amenities of life. China
has brought about tremendous change in the welfare of the people to
the extent life expectancy has been doubled during the reform
period.”
On establishing diplomatic relations with Bhutan, Yafei said to the
applause of the media- persons , “If Bhutan is ready, China is ready
to establish diplomatic ties with Bhutan today.”
Answering a question of involving SCO with NATO in peacekeeping in
Afghanistan, Mr. Yafei advised caution stating that SCO was
established to fight terrorism and extremism.
Regarding the proposal of extending IPI gas pipelines between Iran,
Pakistan and India to China, Yafei said that he was aware of the
proposal but didn’t know the details of the feasibility of the
proposal.Commenting on ties with India, Yafei stated that the ties
were progressing well and the two countries established a mechanism
to solve the border disputes . However, Yafei stressed the
importance of maintaining border tranquillity and to ensure no
clashes in the border areas.
On forming Asian common market, Yafei noted that Asia was a very
diversed region and needed FTA on bilateral and regional levels
along with greater economic cooperation.
Speaking on relations with Sri Lanka, Yafei reiterated, “There is no
hidden agenda behind Chinese assistance to Colombo.” Hinting at
restriction of Western aid to Sri Lanka due to human rights
violation, Yafei pointed out that China also respected human rights
“but no country is perfect in human rights record…Human rights
should ensure the right to live with basic amenities of life. China
has brought about tremendous change in the welfare of the people to
the extent life expectancy has been doubled during the reform
period.”
On establishing diplomatic relations with Butan, Yafei said to the
applause of the media- persons , “If Butan is ready, China is ready
to establish diplomatic ties with Butan today.”
Answering a question of involving SCO with NATO in peacekeeping in
Afghanistan, Mr. Yafei advised caution stating that SCO was
established to fight terrorism and extremism.Regarding the proposal
of extending IPI gas pipelines between Iran, Pakistan and India to
China, Yafei said that he was aware of the proposal but didn’t know
the details of the feasibility of the proposal.
Commenting on ties with India, Yafei stated that the ties were
progressing well and the two countries established a mechanism to
solve the border disputes . However, Yafei stressed the importance
of maintaining border tranquility and to ensure no clashes in the
border areas.
On forming Asian common market, Yafei noted that Asia was a very
diversed region and needed FTA on bilateral and regional levels
along with greater economic cooperation.
Visit of paramount importance for Pak-Egypt ties,
says Haridy
Interview
Dr Jassim Taqui Deputy Editor(IR)
Arab Republic of Egypt is keen to strengthen ties with Pakistan in
every field and looks forward keenly to the visit of Prime Minister
Sayed Yousuf Raza Gilani. The Egyptian people give Pakistan a
special dignified place, stated the Ambassador of Egypt to Pakistan
Mr. Hussain Haridy in an exclusive interview with Pakistan Observer.
Haridy confirmed that Mr. Gilani would lead a high level delegation
that would also include Federal Ministers, Parliamentarians and
businessmen, commending the leadership of the new political
dispensation for giving this priority to Egypt.
The Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Nazif extended the
official visit to Mr. Gilani to attend the World Economic Forum at
Sherm El- Sheikh ( May 18-20) and to hold talks with him on
promoting the bilateral ties. The visit would be the first ever
foreign visit of the Prime Minister since he assumed power after the
February 18 legislation elections.
According to Haridy, the two sides would discuss ways and means to
strengthen bilateral relations in all fields and explore new avenues
on how to face the challenges that face the Middle East and South
Asia.
“ Egypt believes that the two nations should concentrate on economic
and human resource development. Self-dependence is the best way to
face the challenges of shortage of food and energy,” held Haridy. He
also called for South-South Cooperation “as the best answer to face
challenges rather than expect much from others.”
Answering a question on Gilani-Nazif talks, Haridy stated, “ The
Prime Minister Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Nazif is eager to hear from his
Pakistani counterpart the future policies and strategies of the
ruling coalition towards enhancing security in South Asia. On his
part Dr. Mazof would explain Egyptian steps to push forward the
peace process by working hard to calm the situation, end the state
of frustration among the Palestinian people and ensuring lifting the
Israeli siege on the Gaza Strip.”
Elaborating further, Haridy stated “We cannot accept the Israeli
policy of starving one million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. We
find that the Israeli reasons are not convincing… We don’t accept
the collective punishment of the brotherly people of Palestine.”
The Middle East and North Africa is rapidly becoming a high-growth
region, opening up many new opportunities for investment and
partnerships. This strong business drive, backed by an extraordinary
oil boom, is weighing up against shifting security and political
realities.
The annual World Economic Forum on the Middle East is the foremost
global gathering of political, business and cultural leaders. This
year’s meeting will use scenarios to explore the region’s future.
Participants will have a unique opportunity to meet the region’s key
leaders, contribute to in-depth debates and gain a rare insight into
the complexities of the Middle East.
Sudan foiled Chad supported attack on Khartoum: Ali
Osman
Interview
Dr Jassim Taqui
Islamabad—”The Sudanese armed forces supported by the civil society have
crushed a rebel attack against the capital Khartoum, killing 400 and
arresting hundreds others along with their weapons,” stated the Ambassador
of Sudan to Pakistan Mr. Dafaa Alla El Haj Ali Osman in an exclusive
interview with Pakistan Observer.
Sudan on May 11 severed diplomatic ties with Chad after a May 10 attack on
Khartoum by Darfur rebels, led by Khalil Ibrahim of the rebel Justice and
Equality Movement( JEM). Osman termed the movement as “Injustice and
Inequality Movement” since it targets innocent people. It is also involved
in robbing people and hindering resolving the conflict through peaceful
means. “
Osman said that the Chadian President Idriss Deby, was behind training the
mercenaries of JEM and supplying them with weapons. He described the attack
on Khartoum as a very naïve and primitive operation. He disclosed that Sudan
monitored it from the very inception and used deception to trap the rebels
and cut their supplies lines. Hundreds of the rebels were sent to Um Dorman
in Khartoum in 162 truck after moving thousands of miles in the desert.
According to Osman, the Government of Sudan took all precautionary measures
and built a fortification around Um Dorman but “a colonial superpower” with
huge military presence in Chad supplied the rebels with satellite images
showing the fortification. Thus the rebels were able to enter Um Dorman from
different route . It is the first time in decades of conflict that rebels
had attacked the capital Khartoum.
The operation was widely condemned by all political parties including the
Opposition parties and the Sudanese civil society especially when JEM used
prohibited weapons. JEM used anti-tanks weapons against the civilians in Um
Dorman in total violation of international laws.
Giving more details, Osman said the 10th May attack was crushed by the armed
forces and the civil society, killing 400 of the rebels, destroying 56
trucks and the rest were seized with their weapons and ammunition. Many of
them appeared before television and stated that they were Chadian nationals.
Outlining the official policy of Sudan, Mr. Osman pointed out that President
Omar El- Bashir had pursued a sustained policy of resolving the conflicts
through dialogue and peaceful means. He cited the example of resolving the
50-year issue of Southern Sudan. He pointed out that Sudan cooperated with
international community to resolve the Darfur issue through signing the
Abuja Agreement with the rebels. However, the leader of JEM Mr. Deby opted
to oppose the deal and consistently attempted to sabotage the peace process
Osman highlighted that the peace process was acclaimed by UN, African Union,
OIC, Arab League, United States and United Kingdom.
King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia tried to convince Deby to
resolve the issue with President El-Bashir through peaceful means. Deby
signed in Holy Mecca a peace agreement with El-Bashir and promised to honour
it. However, he violated the agreement after several days of signing it.
Osman expressed his satisfaction over the reaction of the international
community to the aggression against Sudan and said that UN, AU , OIC, Arab
League, United States and United Kingdom have all condemned it in the
strongest way. On the reaction of Sudan, Mr. Osman said, “ Khartoum would
submit a complaint against Chad in the UN Security Council . Sudan also
retains the right to retaliate in self-defence.”
Judges and impeachment issues to be decided by Pak
leadership: Kramer
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 22, 2008: Islamabad: The issues of the restoration of Supreme Courts
Judges and the impeachment of President would be left to the leadership of
Pakistan. The US administration would further strengthen the bilateral
relations with Islamabad in all fields.
These were the main features of a press briefing by the US Assistant
Secretary of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour held in
Serena Hotel. Large number of print and electronic media, both domestic and
foreign, attended the briefing.
Ms Kay Web Mayfield, Counsellor for Public Relations also attended the press
briefing. Spokesperson and Press Attaché of US Embassy Dr. Elizabeth Colton
acted as moderated and was also assisted by Ms Megan Ellis.
Kramer was in a relaxed mood. He looked optimistic, positive and answered
all questions put to him.
Explaining in details the US stance on Judges, Mr. Kramer said that the US
policy has been consistent on the issue of independence of judiciary,
stating it was "key to democratic development and vibrant civil society."
On the issue of the impeachment of the President, Mr. Kramer said it was an
issue to be left to the people of Pakistan and parliament. However, he
reminded the questioner that the US administration strongly opposed the
imposition of emergency and strongly urged to lift it, urged Musharraf to
doff the uniform and hold free and fair elections.
Mr. Kramer also noted , "Pakistan has a golden opportunity to move forward…
Pakistan is to determine its future."
Speaking on his 48-hour visit to Pakistan, Kramer described it as "intensive
and productive." He paid rich tribute to the US Ambassador to Pakistan Ms
Anne W. Patterson for her positive role in promoting the bilateral relations
and said, "She is one the best ambassadors we have had." Kramer went on to
state , "We have decided to help Pakistan in all areas including assistance
in economic, security, health and education to ensure Pak security and
stability."
He stated that he was pleased to meet large number of people including the
ministers of Information, Education, and Labour, Foreign Secretary, Election
Commissioner, parliamentarians, and representatives of women, religious
leaders, lawyers and media.
He noted that all people were candid and positive in their criticism and
said , " I found people are extremely friendly and generous… I am positively
impressed to note that the people were bold to speak up their mind."
Answering a question on the human aspect involved in the collateral damage
in the war against terror , Kramer stated "The US administration tries to
reduce the collateral damages to zero by accurately dealing with the threat
and addressing the problems."
Speaking on any follow-up to the State Department's Country Human Rights
Reports, Kramer disclosed that a new strategy would be devised to help
countries promote human rights and shortcomings including the issue of
disappearances not only in Pakistan but in other countries as well.
On his impression about the outcome of his visit , Kramer said that the felt
hopeful about the future of Pakistan and his visit would further promote
US-Pak bilateral relations.
Mr. David J. Kramer has a brilliant career. Earlier, he was Deputy Assistant
of State for the European and Eurasian Affairs. He also served in the
Department of State Office of Policy Planning and a Professional Member. He
was also Senior Advisor to Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs, and
was Executive Director of the US Advisor Commission on Public Diplomacy in
Washington.
Apprehension of war in the Middle East
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 18, 2008: Doha ( Qatar) : There were mixed signals at Doha, Qatar.
On the one hand , one could see the elegance of development projects at Doha
and the tall multi-story buildings everywhere signaling the atmosphere of
peace. On the other, there were strong indications suggesting that war might
erupt in the Middle East.
However, with the convening of the Doha Forum, scholars, intellectuals and
think tank along with high level officials from all over the world genuinely
tried to forewarn of the danger of war and push forward the peace process in
the region.
Strategists at Doha Forum were worried. Back in February, the United States
started purchasing oil for its Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). The SPR is
a reserve of crude oil stored in underground salt domes. It stood at 96.2
percent of capacity. Hence the keenness of US Department of Energy to
increase its oil capacity shows a clear US concern. This policy is being
pursued even at the record-high oil prices .Many thought that this US policy
is based on real fears of a disruption in oil supplies. Such scenario could
only happen in case of hostilities in the region.
Also in February, Imad Mughniyah, a leader of Hezbollah, was killed in a car
bomb explosion in Syria. Hezbollah publicly claimed the Israelis killed
Mughniyah, and therefore it was expected the Hezbollah would take revenge.
In March, the United States decided to dispatch the USS Cole, then under
Sixth Fleet command, to Lebanese coastal waters. Washington later replaced
it with two escorts from the Nassau (LHA-4) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG),
reportedly maintaining a minor naval presence in the area. The exact mission
of the naval presence off the Levantine coast was not clear. The Sixth Fleet
has gone out of its way to park and maintain US warships off the Lebanese
coast.
With the situation becoming tense, the Israelis carried in the second week
of April an exercise called Turning Point 2. The Syrian took this exercise
seriously and deployed three divisions — two armored, one mechanized — to
the Lebanese-Syrian border in the Bekaa Valley. The deployment shows that
Damascus is fearing a possibility of war in the region. Even the present
anti-Syrian government in Lebanon felt the threat and started to evacuate
some civilians from the South. Hezbollah, on its part went on alert and
mobilized its forces. The Americans said nothing to try to calm the
situation. They just sat offshore on their ships.
It is noteworthy that Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak canceled a
scheduled visit to Germany in April . The cancellation came immediately
after the reports of the Syrian military redeployment were released.
Subsequently, the region witnessed the visit of US Vice President Dick
Cheney to Oman followed by US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates.
These and escalation of war in Iraq, Gaza and West Bank show that tensions
in the Middle East are moving well beyond the normal point.
In this grim scenario, Doha Forum was convened. The Forum was timely and
extremely useful. Virtually every speaker in the Forum counseled moderation,
reconciliation, compromise and peace.
One should give a special compliment to the leadership and the government of
Qatar especially to Emir of Qatar His Royal Highness Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani
and Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs His Excellency Hamad Bin
Jassim Al-Thani for hosting the Doha Forum on Democracy, Development and
Free Trade. The arrangements were perfect. The sovereign royals of Qatar
including Sheikha Mouza showered their guests with some extra-ordinary
generosity, sincerity and kindness one would rarely find.
The elite of the elites in the globe attended the Doha Forum in large number
including scholars, intellectuals and media-persons. Also in attendance were
high foreign officials especially the Turkish Prime Minister Mr. Recep
Tayyip Erdogan, President of the European Parliament Mr. Hans- Gert Hermann
Poettering, President UN General Assembly Srgjan Kerim, French Socialist
Party Presidential candidate Mr. Segolene Royal, Former Russian Minister of
Foreign Affairs Mr. Igor Ivanov, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Mr.
Baldwin Spencer, former Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Mohammed
Bin Issa, Fromer French Prime Minister Mr. Dominique De Villepin, Former US
Secretary Defense Mr. William Cohen, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of
Sri Lanka Hussein Bhaila, Japanese former Defence Minister Ms Yuriko Koike,
GCC Secretary General Mr. Abdulrahman Bin Hamad Al-Attiya, former French
Prime Minister Mr. Edith Cresson, Ms Tzipi Livni Israeli Vice Prime Minister
and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hungarian Former Prime Minister Mr. Victor
Orban, former British Foreign Secretary Sir Malcom Rifkind, Former Prime
Minister of Netherlands Mr. Ruud Lubbers, Arab Monetary Fund Chief Mr.
Jassim Al-Mannai, former Lord Mayor of City of London Sir Gavyn Arthur,
British Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. David Lidington, former
Sudanese Information Minister Professor Ali Shamou and many others.
It is reliably learnt that many Pakistani high officials were invited to
Doha Forum. They confirmed participation but regretted to attend the Doha
Forum at the last moment. In fact our invitees missed a golden opportunity.
Doha Forum is one of the best and most exciting opportunity to interact with
world leading scholars, intellectuals, think tanks, global decision makers
and global high ranking officials.
Public have taken over the media !
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 17, 2008: Doha( Qatar) : The print media should realize the
tremendous change that the electronic media have brought about in
information. Everything seems to be falling. The world turned overhead
because public are controlling the media.
These were the main observation of the renowned journalist Lord Tim Bell in
the last session of Doha Forum on Democracy, Development and Free Trade.
Bell based his thesis on the basis of the research conducted by his Chime
Communications, which is UK’s biggest public relations group.
Bell was instrumental in Conservative election campaigns, including all the
successful campaigns of Margaret Thatcher. He is seen as one of the first of
the modern breed of 'spin doctors' and founder of the modern PR industry.
According to Bell, the consumers have taken over the media through the
internet. He maintained, “The information ministry in England disappeared a
long time ago. People are no longer interested in the government version or
even in private sector media that are geared to promote and propagate
special groups. Most people are interested in entertainment and reading
something about themselves and not in gloomy events and predictions .”
To Mr. Bell, the general public and consumers need positive news that given
them hope in this very complicated world.
In his short but witty presentation, Bell forcefully opposed controlling the
media, stating, “It is stupid indeed to control the media in this age of
internet. The people have taken over. The consumers are dictating terms.
They are changing the entire system and the perception of role of the
media.”
Bell was the center of attraction. He strongly opposed the fixing of the
media through set of rules, censorship or propaganda in this age of the
internet and innovation. He maintained that people have stopped seeing even
television with unlimited options given to them by the internet.
Speaking on the print media, Bell asked journalists to change their style
and be extremely innovative and creative if they want to survive because the
internet is there updating itself every second, giving variety of news from
different perspectives and in a complete atmosphere of freedom. He observed,
“You should not expect that people would be interested in reading in the
newspapers the news they have already heard in television or read and heard
in the internet.”
Other speakers who took part included David Lidingto, MP, Shadow Minister
for Foreign Affairs, House of Common, UK, David Foster, Al-Jazeera English,
Qatar, Wadah Khanfar, Director General of Al-Jazeera Network, Qatar,
Professor Ali Shomous, former Minister of Information and Culture, Sudan,
Dr. Mohammad Al-Rumaihi, Editorin Chief of Al-Arabi monthly , Kuwait,
Abdelbari Atwan, Chief Editor, Al-Quds Al-Arabi Arabic daily , London, and
Fatina who is a young Arab American. She edits Arabic monthly Al-Sahafa in
Ohio, United States that tries to build the Arab image in the United States.
US incentive to make Israel agree on a
Palestinian state
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 16, 2008: Doha( Qatar): The United States is playing
behind-the-scene role in convincing Israel to establish a Palestinian state
by the end of 2008. In this regard, it is learnt from sources that sough
anonymity the Bush administration offered to integrate Israel into its
ballistic missile early-warning system to ensure that it would not be
attacked by Iran, Hezbollah or any other Arab country in the future or in
case of eruption of hostilities in the Middle East.
In this regard, Israeli Defense Ministry Director General Pinhas Buchris and
head of the Defense Ministry’s Diplomatic-Military Bureau, Maj. Gen. Amos
Gilad, both have been to Washington in the last month for talks at the
Pentagon. The move would represent the operation of a broad strategic
alignment between US efforts in ballistic missile defense (BMD) and its
relevance to Israeli security.
Israel is not centered on the potential ballistic flight path of a missile
launched from Iran at the population centers of the US eastern seaboard, but
its geographic proximity has two important implications. First , the United
States’ Poland-Czech Republic BMD system always was predicated on a
forward-deployed radar in a crisis, either a BMD-capable Aegis-equipped
warship or a mobile X-Band radar (now in the final stages of development in
conjunction with the Theater High Altitude Air Defense, or THAAD, system).
Israel offers reliable location. US -Israeli cooperation on BMD has been the
most longstanding international arrangement in the history of the US
programme. Additionally, the Green Pine radars of the Arrow system, which
was developed in conjunction with the Pentagon is operationally deployed in
Israel.
Second, as boost-phase intercept technologies mature, Israel may prove an
alternate location for basing them. A solid footing in Israel pushes the
foothold of US BMD far deeper into the Middle East than it currently
reaches.
Israel would gain the advantage of becoming tied not only into relevant US
radar feeds from BMD-capable warships in the Persian Gulf, but more
importantly into the Defence Support Program satellite constellation, which
continually monitors the surface of the Earth for the plume of a ballistic
missile launch. As Israel is far closer to Iran than the United States is to
any potential ballistic missile threat, maximizing its reaction time is even
more crucial for Israel. BMD cooperation previously was arranged during the
Gulf War in 1990-91 and the opening of Operation Iraq in 2003. But this
would institutionalize that cooperation. Most probably, the BMD cooperation
would create new optimizations and efficiencies in the Israeli system.
Livni steals the show in Doha Forum
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 15, 2008: Doha ( Qatar): I appeal to Arab countries to take the
initiative for bringing lasting peace in the region by establishing open
contacts with Israel. These contacts would help improve the Palestinian
image in the Arab world and make possible the establishment of two sovereign
states: Israel and Palestine.
These were the main feature of a speech delivered by the Israeli Vice Prime
Minister and Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni at the 8th Doha Forum on
Democracy, Development and Free Trade.
Levni looked confident, friendly and answered some very hostile questions
put up to her by Qatari and Palestinians scholars. However, at one point US
Congressman Mr. William Delahunt and Congressman Joseph Kennedy came to her
rescue while Ambassador Kenton Keith of Meridian International Center,
Washington applauded her courage and Riz Khan of CNN, who acted as a
moderated, shielded her by cutting short questions and comments critical of
Israeli atrocities against unarmed Palestinian people and the double
standard policy pursued by Tel Aviv .
Interestingly, the former US Secretary of Defence Mr. William Cohen kept
silent throughout two-hours session of one of the most exciting interaction
between Livni and the Arabs. All questions were directed to Livni. All
cameras were focused on her. And she was responsive, smiling and cleverly
using her charm through body language and deliberate swinging her golden
hair to play with the audience at will !
However, Livni was not spared . Even a member of Knesset , Dr. Ahmad Al-Tayyibi,
representing the Arabs in Israel, blasted her presentation on human rights.
He accused Israel of being a racist state, which had three categories of
citizens: the white Jews, the none-white Jews and the Palestinians. However,
Riz Khan stopped him from further embarrassing Livni. But Livni answered
back, “ The fact that you are a member of the Knesset, an Arab and a Muslim,
criticizing me here in an Arab country shows that Israel is a real
democracy.” She stood up smiling and telling the journalists, “I would like
to give , through you, a message that I am willing to visit any Arab country
that extends invitation to me.”
Speaking mainly on the peace process , Livni said that permanent peace in
the Middle East was not only important for Israel and Palestine but for the
whole region.
In her speech and interaction with the scholars in the Doha Forum, Livni
highlighted the challenges of extremism, Israel's vision of a two-state
solution, media bias and her country's desire to have friendly relations
with the Arab world. "I accepted Qatar's invitation in a spirit of
friendship and mutual respect. We had maintained relations even during the
difficult times. My gesture is symbolic. I extend my hand to other Arab
countries too", she said.
Democracy is a value system and the basic right of a human being. Today, in
different parts of the world, extremists are entering the democratic process
via elections to push for their violent agenda, she said.
"How can we handle terrorism?", is a question to be posed by the whole
world. It is the full right of democracies to defend themselves from those
who wish to exploit the system in order to reach power and then abuse it to
enforce their radical ideology, she said.
"No true democracy on earth allows armed militia, or groups with racist or
violent agendas, to participate in elections. I call the international
community to adopt a universal set of standards for participation in
democratic elections. The choice should be made before elections take place
— terror or politics — but not political terrorism",
she said.
On Israel's initiative in the Middle East peace process, she said: "Israel
left the Gaza Strip, dismantled all settlements, and gave an opportunity for
Palestinian self rule, as a first step on the path towards Palestinian
state; and peace talks are taking place with the pragmatic Palestinians, who
recognize Israel's right to exist, who seek to realize their national rights
but choose the path of peace over terrorism. With such partners, who support
the two-sate solution, peace can be attained. The conflict is solvable." We
don't have a hidden agenda. Because we understand each other and want to
live side by side in peace and security", she said
Israel recognizes the fact that the Palestinian people have legitimate
rights and aspirations, she added. "We have no interest in ruling their
lives. But the people of Israel are entitled to those same rights. Just as a
Palestinian state is an Israeli interest Israeli security must be a
Palestinian interest.
"We can together promote mutual understanding by removing incitement and
hatred. This is the only way for bringing in a lasting peace in the region.
I want the Arab world to take the initiative, not just for Israel but for
Palestine and for the whole region", she said.
Livni used her visit to Qatar to urge Arab states to forge ties with Israel.
She also met with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and Prime
Minister Sheikh Hammad bin Jassim Al-Thani . During her stay in Doha, Livni
had her first public encounter with her Omani counterpart Yusuf bin Alawi
bin Abdullah. Speaking to the journalists, Livni said that her meeting with
Abdullah centered on the peace process and that she updated him on the
negotiations with the Palestinians. Levni also discussed with Abdullah the
Arab world's role in helping create the two independent states.
However, Bin Alawi Abdullah said that he disagreed with Israeli views on the
peace process and there was no question of immediately reopening an Israeli
trade office in Muscat shut nearly eight years ago.
Israeli Foreign Minister at Doha Forum
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 14, 2008: Doha( Qatar) : While over 400 delegates from various
countries of the world attended Doha Summit for Democracy, Development and
Free Trade, the center of attraction, however, was on the participation of
the blond Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni. The charming looking young
Israeli Foreign minister was keen to have a hand-shaking photo session with
Prime Minister of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al-Thani to the delight of
journalists and photographers who crowded the event.
When the journalists asked Qatar's prime minister Hamad bin Jassim Al-Thani
on Livni’s visit, he insisted that he would raise Israel's blockade of Gaza
with Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni as she made a visit to the Gulf emirate.
There were some extraordinary security measures in the elegant Sheraton
Hotel, where Livni resides and the Forums convenes.
Jassim maintained that Qatar was very concerned over the deterioration of
the situation in Gaza and that one of the most important subject is to
negotiate with Livni calming the situation in Gaza in particular. The
Foreign Minister of
Qatar, looked self-confident and accommodative and never shy of inviting
Livni or even holding talks with top Israeli officials.
Ostensibly Jassim is trying a mediation between Israel and the Islamist
Hamas movement which controls the Israeli-blockaded Gaza Strip. This
mediation has become important following failure of all other regional and
international fora.
It is also speculated in the Doha Forum that Livni is expected to push for
the release of Shalit who was seized in a cross-border raid from the Gaza
Strip by Hamas members.
The Qatari premier, who also occupies the post of foreign minister,
reiterated that Qatar wanted to see a peaceful settlement of Iran's standoff
with the West over its nuclear programme.
"Iran is a neighbour and is important to us. Stability is also important in
the region and we are always keen on seeing any issue in the region resolved
peacefully, especially with regard to Iran," he said.
Gas-rich Qatar, which hosts the headquarters of US Central Command,
maintains relations with both Israel and its regional arch foe Iran.
The rare invitation extended to Livni to visit the Gulf sparked boycotts by
other participants invited to the forum. "I have seven cancellations because
of your arrival," the Qatari premier joked with Livni at the opening
session.
Qatar has established itself as a regional peace-broker in recent years.
Doha has repeatedly called on the United Nations for Israeli-Palestinian
peace, and in February it publicly offered to broker a cease-fire between
Israel and Hamas. Livni has met with Qatari leaders at the United Nations,
but this will be her first meeting with them in Qatar. The only other Arab
states Livni has visited are Egypt and Jordan, which have peace treaties
with Israel.
She is the highest-ranking Israeli official to visit Qatar since Shimon
Peres went to Doha for a television debate last year as deputy prime
minister. Peres currently serves as Israel's president.
Ben Meir asks Israel, Washington to accept the
Arab initiative
Dr. Jassim Taqui
April 14, 2008: Doha( Qatar): “As the current negotiation between Israel
and the Palestinian Authority have taken a precarious turn, it is more
critical than ever to reinvigorate the Arab Initiative and place it into the
forefront of the regional peace process,” stated Professor Alon Ben-Meir,
Professor of International Relations, Center for Global Affairs, New York
University in a thought provoking paper he read at the 8th Doha Forum on
Democracy, Development and Free Trade.
Ben Meir was critical of Israel , Washington and Western nations, who failed
to support the Arab Initiative and forewarned that Israeli bloody conflict
with Hamas will persist unless collective Arab will and weight , especially
Syria’s, is positively engaged in the diplomatic process.
Reviewing the previous peace initiatives, Meir proclaimed that all previous
peace plans- including the Road Map, Clinton/ Barak parameters, and the Oslo
accords had failed “because they lacked the comprehensiveness of the Arab
Initiative and excluded Syria from the peace process.”
Meir asked Israel and Washington to embrace the Arab Initiative in order to
quell the violence, exchange the territories captured in the 1967 war, find
a human solution for the Palestinian refugee problem and seek a mutually
acceptable solution to the future of Jerusalem all of which was mentioned in
the Arab Initiative floated in 2000 and reconfirmed by King Abdullah bin
Abdul Aziz Al- Saud of Saudi Arabia in the Arab summit held in March 2007.
Elaborating further, Meir said, “ The Arabs should follow the Egyptian and
Jordanian steps by meeting Israeli representatives to give a diplomatic
gesture that would result in a dramatic and much-needed shift in Israeli
public opinion.”
The collective Arab Initiative offers Arab collective recognition of Israel
if Tel Aviv agreed to establish a Palestinian state on all the lands Israel
occupied on 5th June , 1967. The plan also calls for Israeli withdrawal from
the Golan Heights and Shibá Farms and the right of the Palestinian people to
return or compensation as per UN Security Council Resolution 194.
Interestingly Mr. William Cohen, former US defence Secretary who also spoke
in the Doha Forum opted not to comment on the proposal floated by Professor
Alon Ben-Meir. However, Cohen asked the GCC to help the American forces in
Iraq by financial support, stating, “ We cannot bear the financial burden
anymore.”
While Cohen disagreed with the Bush administration policy of “coalition of
the willing.” Instead, Cohen proposed the formation of the “coalition of the
relevant,” which should be formed and financed jointly by the United States
and regional powers. Cohen was of the view, “ The prosperity in the GCC is
fragile without security, which is presently ensured in Iraq and the entire
GCC region by the United States. And if the US forces withdrew from Iraq,
the fallout of Sunni-Shiite violence would engulf the entire Gulf region.
Hence, GCC should support the US forces in Iraq financially to ensure its
security and prosperity.”
A constitutional package that
satisfies all
Comment
Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
The coalition government has agreed on a constitutional package
(CP), which would satisfy all, disclosed a reliable source who is
very close to PPP. According to the CP, the tenure of the Chief
Justice would be reduced to three years.
This means the Chief Justice Mr. Iftikhar Mohammad Chauhdry would be
reinstated with full honour but would simultaneously retire since he
spent more than three years as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of
Pakistan.
The CP would ensure the complete independence of judiciary as per
the articles of the Charter of Democracy signed by PPP and PML(N) in
May 2006 at London.
Another article in the CP pertains to the supremacy of the
parliament. This would be done by cancelling article 58(2) b in the
constitution.
The CP would endorse National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO), which
was promulgated on the eve of the presidential poll. NRO grants an
amnesty to all those allegedly involved in the misuse of power and
other transgression between 1986 and 1999.
It means that the CP would confirm President Pervez Musharraf since
the NRO was promulgated to pave the way to a power-sharing deal
between the PPP and President Musharraf.
So far all cases against lawmakers from all political parties
including PPP and PML(N) registered between January 1, 1986 and
October 12, 1999 in which no conviction has been made have been
dropped by the courts. Consequently, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, Mr. Nawaz
Sharif and Mr. Shahbaz Sharif are cleared. All the three leaders
have stated that they would contest by-election. This posture is an
implicit acceptance of the NRO and the legitimacy of the
Presidential elections.
We have seen that all cases instituted by the National
Accountability Bureau (NAB) inside or outside Pakistan during
1986-1999 period have been withdrawn.
According to NRO, the powers of NAB have been severely clipped. The
government has also stated that special committees on ethics to be
set up in the National and provincial assemblies to clear any move
by police to arrest lawmakers.
The MQM, a powerful ally of the President Musharraf, also stands to
benefit from NRO. Thousands of its workers are charged with serious
offences during the period also stand to be cleared.
President Musharraf also gains indirectly because NRO wins him new
supporters and rewards existing allies, thereby making his future
prospects more secure.
Bashar triumphs in Arab
Summit
Comment
Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)
THE Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad has successfully conducted the
Arab summit conference ( March 29-30) despite intense foreign
pressure. His steadfastness and skilled diplomacy has ensured an
Arab consensus on all burning issues including Lebanon, Iraq and
occupied Palestine. Furthermore, Syrian presidency over the Arab
League in the year ahead raises the hope for effective handling of
the League’s affairs.
Assad’s apt handling of the Arab issues has foiled certain foreign
attempts to prevent holding of Arb summit or minimize its
importance.
While Syria continues to face tremendous threats , Assad showed that
Syria was not without options. He extended the invitation to the
Iranian Foreign Minister Mr. Mottaki timing it with the convening of
the summit to reaffirm the strategic ties between the two countries.
There is also the upcoming visit to Syria by Li Changchun, a senior
official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which will
consolidate and promote the traditionally friendly bilateral
cooperation between the two countries.
Invited by the ruling Baath Arab Socialist Party, Li Changchun, a
member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the
CPC’s Central Committee, will visit Syria on April 1-3 to become the
highest-level CPC official to visit the country in nearly five
years.
While opposing any attempt to undermine the reunification of China,
the Syrian government firmly pursues the one-China policy and has no
official contacts with the Taiwan authorities.
China, for its part, supports Syria as an important party in the
Middle East peace process to play a significant role in regional
affairs as well as Syria’s legitimate right to restore its
sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights.
Assad has also promoted relations with Moscow. Russian Foreign
Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Damascus, Ramallah, Tel Avid and
Jerusalem on March 19 while US Vice President Dick Cheney was
holding meetings the same week in Iraq, Israel, the Palestinian
territories, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Oman.
Russian involvement in the Middle East is a welcome development that
would bring about the collapse of a uniploar and an unjust global
system. Most certainly, Russia would revive its primacy in its
erstwhile spheres of influence that Moscow enjoyed during the Cold
War. The Russians have realized that non-involvement in the Middle
East emboldened the American policy of war and invasion of Iraq and
Afghanistan. Now, the US-led NATO is surrounding Russia by
contemplating of building military bases in Kosovo , Georgia and
Ukraine. This is in addition to the extremely unnecessary policy of
expanding NATO and US ballistic missile defense plans.
This time, the US-supported Israel would be fiercely opposed by
Syria. Damascus is fighting to preserve its sovereignty and
territorial integrity especially when the Zionist entity twice
attacked it last year, namely, the September 2007 Israeli air strike
and the February 2008 .
With Assad assuming the leadership of the Arabs for one complete
year, Israel, Washington and their allies are facing isolation and
humiliation among Arab , Islamic and international community. Hence
Assad is not only emerging as an Arab leader but also as a Muslim
leader who has rejected the US- Zionist dictation, one-sided and
unjust peace as well as their continued attempts to divide the Arabs
and the Muslims.
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