Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
IMF unveils its real face
The real face of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) stands completely unveiled. This has happened after the multilateral donor agency – IMF – issued a grossly political statement on 31/23 May. The Fund has sparked a new debate by commenting on the political instability in crisis-hit Pakistan.
The IMF mission chief in Pakistan, Nathan Porter termed “political stability indispensable for economic stability’. The referenced statement of the IMF conspicuously reflects its covert political agenda. If this thinking is to be proven wrong, the august international lending institution (IMF) will have to retract its political statement, vis-à-vis Pakistan, forthwith.
Promptly responding to the IMF mission chief’s statement, Pakistan’s Minister of State for Finance, Aisha Ghaus Pasha, termed it as interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs. Dr Pasha unequivocally said interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs is not the mandate of the IMF. However, while voicing her concern over the matter, she duly acknowledged that delay in the loan program is not in the interest of cash-trapped Pakistan which badly needs funds to avert a debt default. She also expressed the hope that the Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) will be inked before the upcoming budget of the country.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) shouldn’t issue statements that could justifiably be considered as interference in the internal affairs of Pakistan. To save the Fund from getting involved in unnecessary controversies, it shouldn’t deviate from its mandate under any circumstances. It should rather abide by its primary mandate of helping the cash-trapped world nations, in letter and spirit.
Pakistan’s Minister of State for Finance Dr. Pasha has rightly stated that Pakistan is fully cognizant of its prevailing economic predicaments. In view of the foregoing, I would urge the Fund’s managers not to twist the arms of Pakistan for attaining its covert objectives. Instead, sincerely endeavour to steer Pakistan out of its current gargantuan economic predicaments by expeditiously inking the long-overdue Staff-Level Agreement (SLA).
M FAZAL ELAHI
Islamabad
Suicide & inflation
I am writing to you today to express my deep concern about the rising rates of suicide in Karachi, particularly among those who are struggling to make both ends meet in the face of ever-increasing inflation. Inflation has been a major issue in Karachi for several years now, and it has been particularly challenging for those who are living on low incomes or who are unable to find work. The high cost of living has led to a sense of hopelessness and despair among many people, which has in turn led to an increase in suicide rates. Recent reports indicate significant increase in the number of suicide cases in Karachi, many of these cases are believed to be linked to financial difficulties and the stress of trying to make both ends meet in an increasingly challenging economic environment.
This is a deeply concerning trend that must be addressed. It is essential that we take steps to address the root causes of inflation and to provide support to those who are struggling financially. This includes measures such as increasing access to affordable housing, improving job opportunities and providing social safety nets for those who are most vulnerable.
Also, it is important that we work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and suicide, and to provide greater access to mental health services for those who need them. After all, world is for all.
TALBIA SYED
Karachi
Karachi needs plantation
Plantation is important for any city to maintain environmental balance and reduce pollution. Karachi, being a large metropolis, can certainly benefit from increased plantation efforts. Plantation can help reduce air pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide, which is a major contributor to global warming and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. Trees also help to filter pollutants from the air and reduce the amount of dust and other particulate matter that can cause respiratory problems.
Moreover, planting trees and shrubs can help prevent soil erosion, reduce the risk of flooding and improve the overall quality of life in the city. Trees also provide shade which can help reduce the amount of energy needed to cool buildings during the hot summer months.
There are many organizations and initiatives in Karachi that are working towards increasing the city’s green cover such as the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s Plant for Pakistan campaign and the Pakistan Parks and Horticulture Authority’s Green Karachi campaign. Additionally, individuals can also contribute by planting trees in their own homes and neighbourhoods. Planting more trees and increasing green spaces in Karachi can have numerous benefits for the environment and the city’s inhabitants.
MUHAMMAD WAQAS
Karachi
