Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Economic growth vs political chaos
Imagine a ship caught in a fierce hurricane. The crew is divided, each faction pulling the vessel in different directions while the captain tries to negotiate safe passage with distant shores. The political climate in Pakistan is somewhat similar to a turbulent sea with waves of protests and counter-protests crashing against the hull of governance. The supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan are battering the shores of Islamabad demanding his release whearas the capital is fortified with containers and guarded by thousands of police officers, standing as a fortress against this political deluge.
The government led by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif is trying its level best to maintain its course amidst this chaos as Pakistan engages in a delicate diplomatic relationship with Belarus. The recent agreements with Belarus symbolizes Pakistan’s attempt to secure its economic future and strengthen its international ties as both the countries have signed fifteen Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and cooperation. These diplomatic efforts are like a lifeline thrown to a ship in distress offering hope and stability. This also shows that Pakistan is not only expanding its market reach but is also securing technological and industrial advancements that are crucial for our economic stability, growth and progress.
The current situation in Pakistan is a multifaceted amalgamation of conflict and collaboration where a delicate balancing act of survival is required to battle through these challenging circumstances. The internal political conflicts must be resolved with wisdom and foresight ensuring that the ship remains afloat. At the same time, the diplomatic engagements with countries like Belarus must be pursued with vigour and clarity securing the nation’s place in the global arena. In this metaphorical voyage, Pakistan’s leaders are the navigators tasked with steering the ship through treacherous waters. The journey ahead is fraught with challenges but with unity and determination, the ship can weather the storm and reach calmer seas.
MARRIAM KAIWAN
Islamabad
ICC must not be Indian Cricket Council..!
This communication presents suggestions for your consideration regarding the resolution of the ongoing challenges surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The International Cricket Council (ICC) must adhere to the principles of fairness and equity, ensuring consistent application of its regulations. Precedents set by the ICC in similar circumstances provide a clear framework for addressing this matter:
1. Historical Precedents:
– During the 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup, in the context of an ongoing civil war in Sri Lanka, three major cricketing nations boycotted their group matches in Sri Lanka. The ICC ruled that these teams would automatically forfeit their points.
– Similarly, ahead of the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) requested that their match scheduled to take place in Zimbabwe be relocated to South Africa due to safety concerns. This request was denied by the ICC. On both occasions, the ICC upheld strict enforcement of its regulations, penalizing teams that failed to fulfil their obligations under the tournament schedule.
2. Current Concerns:
In light of these precedents, the ICC’s proposal to implement a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025 appears inconsistent with its historical stance. Forcing Pakistan to accept a hybrid model under pressure from the BCCI raises serious questions about fairness and impartiality. This approach risks undermining the ICC’s credibility and could lead to perceptions that it functions as an extension of the Indian Cricket Council rather than a truly global governing body.
3. Proposed Stipulation for Consideration:
The PCB may consider agreeing to the hybrid model suggested by the ICC for the Champions Trophy 2025 on the condition that the ICC provides a written guarantee. This guarantee should ensure that the hybrid model will be applied consistently to future tournaments, specifically:
– The Women’s World Cup (September–October 2025),
– The Asia Cup (October 2025), and
– The T20 World Cup (February–March 2026).
This stipulation would safeguard the PCB’s position and ensure equitable treatment if, for any reason, Pakistan decides to boycott these tournaments scheduled to be held in India. We trust that these suggestions will guide the PCB in addressing the current situation with clarity, ensuring the principles of fairness and justice are upheld in international cricket.
Syed NayyarUddin Ahmad
Lahore.
Study breaks in semester exams
I would like to highlight an alarming issue for the authorities’ attention that no holidays are given to university students during semester exams, which has become a matter of grave concern for students. At least one day gap between two different papers should be given to students to promote physical, mental and academic wellbeing. These breaks help students to recharge and boost themselves from their previous hectic schedule and to get prepared for the next coming challenge.
WARDA YOUNAS
Islamabad
