Appearing from Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Muzaffarabad & Quetta

Sunday, March 21, 2010, Rabi ul Thani 4, 1431

Deputy Editor (IR)

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.

Introducing Lou Fintor

Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)

ONE would always miss Ms Kay Webb Mayfield, Counsellor for Public Affairs at the US Embassy. In the last function I attended on the honour of Ms Mayfield, I found her as dynamic as ever. She has done some distinguished work especially in promoting cultural ties between Pakistan and the United States during her short stay in Islamabad. This explains the function held on her honour by the First Secretary for Cultural Affairs Ms Constance Colding Jones to bid her farewell. Ms Jones herself combined well with Mayfield to promote the bilateral cultural ties despite grim situation. Mayfield used brevity majestically and opened our eyes for vision.

The good news is the that Ms Jones introduced the new Press Attaché Mr. Lou Fintor. He is succeeding Dr. Elizabeth Colton who has completed her tenure her and is now in Washington. While interacting with Fintor, I found that he is a through professional and a skilled diplomat. His first comment was , “ I love to serve in Pakistan.” Before joining the State Department, Mr. Fintor loved to work as journalist in renowned institutions especially UPI and Washington Times. Earlier , Mr. Fintor also served as press attaché in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo. Mr. Fintor loves print media due to its depth and enduring communication. He is here to add a new dimension to the excellent work produced by Dr. Elizabeth Colton during a short period of one and half a year. Ms Jones invited a large number of senior journalists, artists and academicians to bid farewell to Ms Mayfield and introduce Mr. Fintor.

Swiss Day in Islamabad

Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)

AS USUAL the Swiss Ambassador Mr. Markus Peter and Mrs. Christine Peter were at ease in their “casual dress” reception. The venue was their beautiful residence at the Diplomatic Enclave. When I asked Mr. Peter about the chief guest, he answered that he was keen to celebrate his National Day with easy and without formalities. He added, “This is a Swiss Day, so enjoy yourself.”
A Large number of envoys, diplomats from Europe, Western countries , Asia and Africa attended the function along with their spouses. One could also spot high civil and military officials and politicians. People surrounded Tariq Azim, Tehmina Dultana and Khawaja Asif. Senior journalists were also invited including the Editor-in-Chief of Pakistan Observer Mr. Zahid Malik.
There was a festive mood. The Swiss couples were generous and offered variety of food and a relaxed atmosphere to their guests. Interestingly, many guests overstayed, showing how much they enjoyed the function. All credits to Mr. Peter and his charming spouse Christine, who showed a high standard of warmth and hospitality. They were kind with everyone and mixed freely with their guests.
Mr. Peter is a very popular figure here. He has helped promoting the bilateral ties between the two countries . Switzerland and Pakistan enjoy very friendly bilateral relations. The economic ties between the two countries have reached a remarkable level and are further expanding.
The trade volume exceeded the mark of 400 million Swiss Frances in 2007 and that in the current year the trend is very encouraging. The Swiss exports to Pakistan amounted to 330 million Swiss Francs last year and included machinery, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and watches.
Pakistan mainly exports textiles, garments and agricultural products to Switzerland. However, Pakistani exporters need to increase their exports to Switzerland. Switzerland has been for many years and continues to be one of Pakistan’s top 10 partners in terms of foreign direct investments. A number of Swiss multinational companies with their head office in Switzerland are successfully operating in Pakistan in sectors like foods processing, pharmaceuticals and chemicals as well as banking and other service industries.
The Swiss are proud of their identity and their neutrality. Switzerland is a multi-cultural, multi-linguistic nation. What links the Swiss together are their well-established institutions and policy matters especially democracy and neutrality.
The atmosphere was special. It looked as if people were celebrating Eid. However, many people missed the Swiss couple Dr. Hans Eberhart and his spouse Erika who are on leave in Switzerland.

Moroccan enthronement Day celebrated

Dr. Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)

THERE was a special atmosphere of joy in the function held by Mr. and Mrs. Mohammed Rida El-Fassi at the Marriot hotel here. The occasion was the ninth anniversary of the enthronement of His Majesty King Mohammed VI . The chief guest was the Federal Minister of Finance Sayed Naveed Qamar.
Also in attendance were Mr. Sahibzadah Yaqoob Ali Khan, Mr. Gohar Ayub, Tehmina Dultana, Gen. Talat Masood, Nisar Memon, Allama Enayat Ali Shakir and many other important personalities.
A large number of Arab, African and Western envoys, military attaches along with their spouses attended the faction.
On the main podium , the ambassadors of Eritrea, Egypt, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Iraq, Yemen and Bahrain assembled along with Al-Fassi and the chief guest. The National anthem of both Morocco and Pakistan were played to signify the beginning of a lively function.
The large number of gusts shows the popularity of Mr. Al-Fassi who was able to make large number of friends during a short period of two and half years. He is a soft-spoken, social, moderate, well-dressed and smiling ambassador.
For the Moroccans , the occasion marks the ninth anniversary of the enthronement of King Mohammed VI. With his leadership and vision, Morocco has been able to introduce massive reform in virtually every walk of life. The monarch is particularly interested in poverty alleviation, human resource development and general economic, social , scientific and educational development. He was the first in the history of Morocco to establish a report called “50 Years of Development Since Independence.”
The king surprised the experts since he was not merely interested in statistics and figures of the economic growth or social evolution, but in real human development and the improvement of standard of life of common men.
The monarch established The National Initiative for Human Development (NIHD) to mobilize the country’s institutional and financial resources to improve living conditions among the population and raise national social indicators. This national initiative illustrates the king’s concern to fulfill the aspirations of the Moroccan people, and is part of the social project initiated by the king since his accession to the throne. The National Initiative for Human Development, targeting all-out human development in the country, looks into the social issues within an integrated societal project aiming to consolidate human development as part of economic development. In 2011, the government would submit a comprehensive report of the NIHD.
The atmosphere was serene. A large number of the invitees were discussing the burning global issues especially the consequences of the global food and energy crises. Many diplomats showed sympathy with the people of Pakistan who are directly affected by such crises.

Concern over Ocampo’s illegal statement against Bashir

Exclusive Interview
Dr Jassim Taqui

Islamabad—Sudan is very concerned over the provocative and illegal statement of persecutor of International Criminal Court (ICC) Louis Moreno Ocampo in which he stated he would file criminal charges against the President of Sudan Mr. Omar El-Bashir , accusing him of genocide against tribes in Darfur. Sudan has raised the issue with the United Nations , Arab League and African Union refuting, the allegation of Ocampo. The charges were politically motivated and without any legal foundation.
These were the highlights of an exclusive interview of the Ambassador of Sudan Mr. Daff Alla Elhag Ali Othman with Pakistan Observer. Othman spoke candidly, argumentatively and convincingly. He gave a very interesting and full picture of the original story. He traced the story and how was it conceived, leaked and developed. He gave complete accounts of aspects the Western media suppressed while filing the statement of Ocampo.
According to Mr. Othman , Ocampo first leaked his allegation to an American newspaper without giving any solid and credible evidence to substantiate his wild allegations. He expressed his surprise since a spokesman of the US State Department was the second in line to pick the same story by openly referring to it. “This shows that there was a coordination between the persecutor of the ICC and the State Department,” concluded the Sudanese Ambassador . Othman argued that if the accusation had any truth, the case should have been pursued through the mechanism of ICC and not through a state, which is not a member in ICC.
“The second surprise is that Sudan is not a member of ICC and has not signed the statute , which regulates its work,” held Othman, stating that these facts showed that the entire case was illegal, fabricated and politically motivated.
Viewing the issue from the international law, Othman pointed out, “ The move is invalid. It violates the UN Charter, which requires from international servants to abide by the principle of impartiality and not to mix national agenda with the work and mandate of their organizations. Hence, Ocampo dishonored the pre-requisite principle of impartiality. Additionally, Ocampo committed an unprecedented act by implicating an incumbent President of the State especially when the President of the State is considered to be the symbol of the sovereignty of the country, stated Othman.
Tackling the issue from different perspective, Othman said, “We consider the latest move of Ocampo against President Omar El-Bashir a hurdle before finding a lasting resolution to the Darfur issue. This is so because El-Bashir demonstrated a goodwill and excellent cooperation with the international community by accepting to deploy in Darfur 26000 peace-keeping forces from UN-AU. This is the second biggest peace-keeping mission in the history of UN peace-keeping after that of Kosovo. Further, El-Bashir agreed on the UN nominee of a mediator who would facilitate the peace-keeping process.
Answering a question on the reaction of Sudan, Othman said that on the legal level, Khartoum decided to challenge the legality of the move of Ocampo in all regional and international bodies including Arab League, African Union and United Nations.
Politically, Sudan is coordinating with peace-loving nations at the UN Security Council to bring their attention to the danger of such move. “This move endangers the UN basic principles by aiming at serving the interests of certain countries instead of serving humanity,” Othman argued.
In this regard, Othman said, the UN Secretary General Mr. Ban Ki-moon contacted the Sudanese President Mr. Omar El-Bashir and assured him that he was holding consultation with the permanent members of the UN Security Council to stop the Ocampo move.
On the internal level, all political parties condemned Ocampo move and considered it illegal and unfounded. The political parties showed their complete confidence in the leadership of El-Bashir and commended his commitment to peacefully resolve the Darfur issue and transform Sudan into real democracy. “Only recently, a thumping majority of 350 out of 364 members of the parliament adopted the election law. Accordingly, a free, fair, credible and transparent election would be held next year,” Othman concluded.

Wah Industries, Argentoil  sign joint venture

Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)

Islamabad—A joint venture was signed at POF between  Argentoil S.A.  of Argentina and Wah Industries Limited respectively. It is  the first ever Joint Venture in the sector of CNG (Compress Natural Gas) to produce cylinders for vehicles and gas stations for Pakistan. The new company created by the name of Argentoil-Wah (Private) Limited, is the outcome  of more than two years of negotiations between the President of Argentoil Mr. Juan Carlos Fracchia and the Chairman of Wah Industries Board Lt. Gen. Syed Sabahat Husain and their respective teems with the strong collaboration of the Ambassador of the Argentine Republic Mr. Rodolfo Martin Saravia and his staff.  Argentoil SA, the worldwide producer of INFLEX trademark cylinders, has created ARGENTOIL WAH partnering with WAH Industries -an important Pakistani company- to manufacture CNG cylinders. Argentoil will control 51% of the new company. Argentina and Pakistan are among the 4 leading countries in the World on the use of CNG vehicles.  Inflex, the most used trademark for cylinders, possesses 40 years of experience in the manufacturing of cylinders, and has sold more than 4 millions of cylinders without accidents.  The importance of this project is that will became an additional step on the  cooperation started around four years ago, between Argentina and Pakistan, with the historical trip of the President Pervez Musharraf  to Argentina in December 2004.  WAH Industries is member of the governmental group POF (Pakistan Ordnances Factories, the most important industrial complex in Pakistan, which owns several plants with more than 50.000 employees. The Plant to be installed in Pakistan will manufacture 260.000 cylinders annually covering mainly the Pakistani market. The investment will be of approximately $ 20 millions  and will be financed with local credits.   

 In this regard, the Ambassador of Argentine Mr. Rodolfo Martin Saravia hosted a dinner in the honour of the Argentinean delegation in which he stated that the joint venture  was a  big step achieved in the bilateral relations between Argentina and Pakistan.  Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Juan Carlos paid rich tribute to the Argentinean Ambassador for working hard to achieve this first Argentinean investment in Pakistan.  Responding to the speech, Gen. Sabahat Hussain thanked Adolfo, describing him “the engine that  has given such momentum.” He also  appreciated the Argentinean delegation for  traveling  long distance to come in Pakistan and invest in this important project. Gen. Hussain stated in an affectionate manner and literary language , “From the first meeting we held with the Argentinean delegation two years ago, we realized their warmth towards Pakistan. They talked admirably  through their eyes.”  The dinner was attended by Mr. Bustamante,  Mr. Juan Carlos Fracchia, Mr. Ricardo Vicente, Mr. Shahid Ahmad, Mr. Osman Waheed, Mr.  Riaz Khokhar, Gen, Sayed Sabahat Hussain, Ambassador Attiya Mehmood, Mr. Hadi Hasnain, Mr. Aftab Ahmad Iqbal, Mr.  Masood Hamid, Mr. Muhammad Sharif, Gen. Talat Masood, Secretary Sayed Asif Shah, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf, Mr. Muhammad Ali, Ms Ishrat Hayat and  Mr. Zafar Bakhtawri.

Boucher asks politicians to focus on food, energy
Says Musharraf is not the issue
Welcomes FATA operation
US emphatically supports democracy in Pakistan
Commends FC and calls for coordination with Afghanistan
Washington to continue cooperation with Islamabad

Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)

Dr Jassim Taqui

Islamabad—President Pervez Musharraf is not the issue. He is the President of Pakistan and this is the way we deal with him. The real issues are suicide bombers, energy and food crises. The issue of the judges is not our goal. It is to be decided by political parties. We are committed to a modern, stable and prosperous democracy in Pakistan. These were the highlights of a crowed press conference held by the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs at a local hotel. Mr. Boucher was briefing local and foreign print and electronic media on his interaction with high civil and military officials including President Pervez Musharraf, Prime Minister Sayed Yousuf Raza Gilani, COAS Gen. Ashfaq Kiyani, political and business leaders. In his brief statement, Boucher said that the Secretary of State Ms Condoleezza Rice asked him to visit Islamabad following her interaction with her Pakistani counterpart Mr. Mahmood Qureishi in Paris. He underscored the importance of his visit and that of many US Congressional leaders to Pakistan before the American National Day on 4th July and said his visit was to discuss with the leadership of Pakistan the main issues being faced by the people of Pakistan.

Defending the US stance on the present political dispensation, Boucher said that there should be no doubt in the minds of the people that the US administration supports democracy in Pakistan. He said that the US President George Bush met the Prime Minister Sayed Yousuf Raza Gilani ( Sharm El- Sheikh, Egypt) and would meet him again this month in Washington. However, Boucher characterised democracy as “messy sometimes.” While supporting the coalition government, Boucher counselled national consensus and moderate policies that should reflect the desire of the people of Pakistan. Elaborating further, Boucher reminded the coalition partners to focus on the real issues and to deal with the issues that pertain to the safety of the people, shortage of electricity, food crisis and to work hard on the modernisation of Pakistan. He noted that the coalition made some progress in achieving consensus on fighting terrorism. Answering a question on the ongoing operation in Khyber Agency, Boucher paid rich tribute to the FC for swiftly acting to ensure the safety of the people in the tribal areas, who, he said, were harassed by the militant groups. Boucher was pleased that the people are now talking on the issue of the militants in the tribal areas and noted that during the last two years nobody bothered to discuss the issue. Speaking on the killing of 11 soldiers in Mohmand Agency, Boucher regretted the incident and promised joint investigation to ensure that it should not reoccur in the future. He also called for coordination between Pakistan, Afghanistan and NATO in Afghanistan as the best way to ensure security in the border areas. He noted that suicide bombers and trained militants moved in both directions. Boucher noted that in the past the military action unilaterally taken by Pakistan against the militants pushed them inside Afghan border areas and vice-versa. He suggested that simultaneous action should be taken by Pakistan and Afghanistan against the militants to ensure the best result.

Speaking on Al-Qaeda, Boucher noted that it remained to be very dangerous to the United States, the Western World and Pakistan. He said that the US administration was determined to eliminate Al-Qaeda with the help of Pakistani security. However, Boucher noted that Al-Qaeda was encouraged by some of its friends in Pakistan, Afghanistan and tribal areas without being specific about its supporters. Boucher expressed concern on dealing with the militants while generally expressing support to Pak initiative to hold talks with the tribes in the tribal areas. He said that he understood that the dialogue with the tribes should make them responsible for ensuring peace and security in their region. Boucher, however, hastened to add that the US approach was not confined to military action but would continue with $ 750 million aid programme to establish Zones of Economic Opportunity in tribal area. The programme is aimed to build infrastructure, schools, health units, and roads in the tribal areas. The conference was supervised by Ms Kay Web Mayfield and Ms Megan Ellis. Mr. Boucher himself handled the journalists in an organised and orderly manner. Being the official spokesman of six US administrations has most probably helped him to deal with every situation. Boucher looked confident, candid and tolerant by answering all questions with ease and clarity.

China overwhelmed by Pakistan generous help

Dr Jassim Taqui
Deputy Editor (IR)

 

Islamabad—The people and government of China would like to express their thanks and gratitude for the government and people of Pakistan for being the first and quickest among the diplomatic community to extend valuable reliefs to the victims of the May 12th earthquake that hit China. This was the main message of the DCM of Chinese Embassy Mr. Yao Jing at a press briefing he gave to a select group of senior journalists at the Chinese chancery. Mr. Jing was kind, smiling and extremely pleased while interacting with the journalists.

Jing recalled that President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Sayed Yousuf Raza Gilani were the first to visit the Chinese Embassy immediately after the earthquake to register their condolences and to make moving speeches. In their speeches they eloquently showed solidarity of the government and people of Pakistan with the Chinese people and leadership at a grim time in the contemporary history of China. Later, Pakistani civil society came up also to show solidarity with brotherly people of China both morally and financially. Jing also recalled how quickly Pakistan offered over 30,000 tents and valuable relief including a 28-member medical team. The medical team headed by Dr. Ahmad Habib brought with them their own food and worked round the clock to alleviate the suffering of the survival of the earthquake. The team did such a wonderful job that it was the only team visited by the Chinese President Mr. Hu Jintao to commend their mission and value their spirit of working like Chinese nationals in aiding the survivals of the earthquake. And when the team finished its mission, it donated all medical equipment and medicines to the local hospitals. Additionally, Jing recalled, the Embassy of Pakistan at Beijing was very active in mobilizing people and resources to collect donations for the victims of the earthquake. In this regard, Jing valued the effort of the spouse of the Ambassador of Pakistan to Peoples’ Republic of China Mrs. Salman Bashir who contributed $ 500 dollars and collected donations equal to $ 60,000 through selling Pakistani commodities.

On the people’s level, Jing said that the Chinese were simply overwhelmed to hear about the solidarity of the people and government of Pakistan with them. “One cannot stop his tears while narrating the love and affection the Chinese showed to the Pakistani people and their leadership through some 20,000 comments they wrote in the internet,” acknowledged the emotionally moved Mr. Jing . Mr. Jing went on to read excerpt of some comments that the common Chinese citizens wrote about Pakistan: Pakistan is a great and brotherly nation, We never felt so proud of our friendship with Pakistan as we feel today, China has a trustworthy friend, Pakistanis should be treated like common Chinese people, Pakistan is a true friend, Long live China-Pak friendship, Pakistani team to the Beijing Olympic should be welcomed with a standing ovation, Pakistani team should enjoy the same status as the host in Beijing Olympics, Extend to the Pakistanis in Beijing Olympics the warmest greetings….

Advocacy, lobbying and media skills

Dr Jassim Taqui
 Deputy Editor (IR)

Islamabad—For advocacy, lobbying and media interviews you need to develop skills. Be prepared, honest, positive and brief. Watch your attitude so as to be comfortable, confident, energetic, focused and take charge. These were the highlights of the last day lecture delivered by Ms Josie Bass at a workshop jointly organized by the US Embassy and Paiman Alumni Trust. The speaker, Ms Bass was eloquent, professional and expert on the subject. She spent over 40 years working to serve the cause of truth, positive change, civil and human rights and enlightenment. She is also the founder of ALVA Consortium. When you listen to her in action, you have the feeling that with her self-confidence and straightforwardness, she would put journalists out of job by giving very valuable tips on how to avoid journalist tricks to extract information through interview, watching your body language and creating communication crisis. For Ms Bass, a successful spokesperson should always look prepared, businesslike and at ease. Telling the truth and to be trustworthy is one thing that Ms Bass ask you never compromise. Before interview by print or electronic media, you should be prepared for interviews by knowing your subject, practicing ahead of time and be prepared for block answer by having answers in your mind. In communication, imagine a possible story, determine your communication points, list some possible questions and ask someone to conduct a mock interview and videotape yourself.

One very important aspect in the interview is that you should not keep talking. Let the reporter fill “dead air.” Pause after complete statements and practice information management. To show you command on the subject, avoid “off the record,” Don’t speculate but rather stick to your subjects. In a broadcast interviews, your answers should be very short, 20 seconds or less for each question. However, you may give a longer answer for studio interview. You should remain seated after the interview and assume that you are “live” at all times. Special care should be paid to your person, what to wear, and body language. Your dress should be pastel solid. Keep minimum jewellery and particularly avoid jewellery that catches light. Avoid glasses if you can but avoid sunglasses at all costs. Women should wear normal but men need better dress at TV studios. Ms Bass gives particular importance to body language. Don’t play with your nose and keys. Sit or stand straight. Your eye contact should be with the reporter and not the camera. If you think about a question, look down, not up forward the sky. Speak with a distinct and clear voice. In case of crisis communication, tell the truth. Tell it all. Tell it fast. Don’t be intimidated and never get mad. Deal with the rumours swiftly and never use “no comment.”

Before the interview, you have to evaluate yourself by mock interview: Did you communicate objectively? Did you keep control of the interview by remaining calm, listening carefully to questions, giving convincing answers in short sentences? Did you establish your credibility and trust? The smiling and charming US Embassy Cultural Attaché Ms Constance Colding Jones was visible all the time. She presented certificates to the workshop participants comprising journalists, civil society activists and representatives of political parties. Speaking on the occasion Ms Jones noted that the workshop was designed to equip the participants with practical skills necessary to strengthen dialogue with national and provincial assemblies to achieve a better political, economic and social justice environment in Pakistan.

Advocacy, lobbying and media skills

Dr Jassim Taqui
 Deputy Editor (IR)

Islamabad—The next US-Pak strategic dialogue would start next month and would focus on energy, food and terrorism. The US would reimburse $ 370 million in the next few weeks. Total reimbursement is $ 1.5 billion. The next investment conference would be held next fall in Washington. The US would opt for local purchase of food and send to Balochistan. US is playing a proactive role and has no favorite. US wants to maintain very close contacts with PPP, PML, ANP, MQM and all important people. President Musharraf has a role to play.

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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