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US Resolution
The United States has a shameless history of interfering in other countries, often dismantling democratic governments to replace them with military regimes. Ironically, those in PTI who did not vote for the counter-resolution passed in the National Assembly are the same individuals who previously decried undue American interference in Pakistan. Imran Khan unfurled the cipher in public meetings, declaring it interference in Pakistan’s affairs. To send a strong message to the US, it was necessary to present a united front with a majority vote in favour of the counter-resolution.
By failing to do so, the PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council’s MNAs have only demonstrated their willingness to undermine political stability and invite chaos. This is an unhealthy politics of division and selfishness on the issue of the country’s solidarity, integrity and national interest. It is fortunate that the House passed the counter-resolution, and officials should take every opportunity to convey that Pakistan’s internal matters should be handled under constitutional obligations.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
CPEC benefits
CPEC, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, spans 3000 km of infrastructure under construction in Pakistan, encompassing sea and land-based routes to enhance China’s exports to Europe and the Middle East. Initially budgeted at $56 billion for roads, railways and ports, CPEC has expanded with additional projects aimed at poverty reduction and industry stimulation. Pakistani officials expect CPEC to generate millions of jobs and boost annual income growth by 2 to 2.5 percent from 2015 to 2024, dubbing it a pivotal “game changer” for Pakistan’s economy.
The initial plan for the corridor, connecting China’s border to Pakistan’s deep-water port on the Arabian Sea, was conceived in the 1950s. The first phase of the project, the Karakoram Highway, began in 1959. The Chinese government expressed interest in developing a deep-water port on the Arabian Sea, evaluating several locations in Pakistan’s Sindh and Baluchistan provinces before selecting Gwadar District for the port construction. The first phase of the Gwadar port was completed in 2006 and became operational.
In August 2015, China and Pakistan signed additional agreements worth $1.6 billion to expand and enhance CPEC, focusing on energy generation and collaboration in space research. The Pakistani government also announced the construction of several export processing zones along the CPEC corridor with Chinese assistance. By 2022, CPEC had significantly boosted Pakistan’s exports, development capacity and provided a quarter of its total electricity.
As of 2022, three CPEC projects in Gwadar were partially completed: infrastructure development, Free Zone Phase-1 and the Gwadar Smart Port City. Additionally, the Pan-China Technical and Vocational Centre was established, along with initiatives for clean water provision and energy solutions. China provided 7,000 sets of solar panels for households in Gwadar, with another 10,000 sets in preparation for allocation to disadvantaged communities in Baluchistan.
NOOR UL HUDA
Attock City
Thieves in every society
There are two types of thieves in this world — One is the ordinary thief, and the other is the political thief. The ordinary thief steals your money, bag, wrist watch, gold chain, etc. But the political thief steals your future, career, education, health and business. The most hilarious part is that the ordinary thief will choose whom to rob from. But you yourself will choose the political thief to rob you.
And the most ironic part is that the police will chase and nab the ordinary thief. But the same police will look after and protect the political thief. That is the travesty and irony of our current society. And we blindly say that we are not blind.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Road ahead for Pakistan
Navigating the complexities of Pakistan’s development and political stability requires addressing economic potential, social development, digital advancements, political governance and regional relations. The development and political stability of Pakistan is crucial and complex, influenced by historical, economic, social and geopolitical factors. What lies ahead for Pakistan and its people?
Pakistan has great economic potential with its strategic location, young population and natural resources. Initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) could significantly boost infrastructure and connectivity. However, can Pakistan overcome challenges like high public debt, inflation and unemployment? Will necessary reforms be implemented to reduce reliance on agriculture and foster a robust industrial base?
Then comes the social development. Social development in Pakistan is also highly questionable. Education and healthcare improvements are vital. Despite progress, significant gaps remain, especially in rural areas. Can Pakistan bridge these divides and improve its human development index?
Will investment in social sectors lead to tangible improvement for all citizens? The digital economy offers hope. The rise of IT and tech start-ups could drive innovation and job creation. However, can Pakistan expand internet access and digital literacy to fully harness this potential?
RIMSHA SALEEM
Islamabad
Box letter
Ban sale of alcohol
Alcohol is considered evil in our country. But it’s never an easy decision for the government to declare a ban on alcohol. That’s primarily because liquor revenues are not easy to ignore and have consistently formed the bulwark of government funds. There is a need to address this issue because of increasing cases of violence and crime. There have been many instances of drunk driving, domestic violence, rape, financial imprudence and other severe accidents and crimes. Alcohol abuse is harmful and can lead to serious health problems such as brain damage, heart failure, liver disease and cancer, if consumed for a longer time period and in excessive amounts.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
