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Pakistan extends olive branch to India
Pakistan will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad on October 15 and 16. According to SCO regulations, Pakistan has issued an invitation to all member countries, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While it is unclear whether Modi would attend, early indications are that he will not. By granting this invitation, Pakistan has demonstrated its willingness to engage diplomatically with its neighbours.
Historically, Pakistan has undertaken a number of steps to strengthen relations with India. For example, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Modi on his re-election, and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari attended an SCO summit in India in 2023. Pakistan’s cricket squad also played in the ICC Cricket World Cup in India, showing a desire to retain sporting ties.
However, India’s response has been cautious. Modi’s response to Sharif’s congratulations focused on security matters, and during a speech commemorating the Kargil conflict anniversary, he referred to Pakistan as “masters of terror.” Furthermore, India did not send a cricket team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, and Pakistan was not included on the list of regional leaders invited to Modi’s oath-taking ceremony.
Improving relations between these nuclear-armed neighbours is critical to regional stability. While Modi’s visit to Pakistan may be challenging, enabling the Indian cricket team to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year could be a positive step towards lowering tensions.
MOIN AHMED AWAN
Kandhkot, Sindh
Road accidents
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the increasing number of road accidents and traffic violations that have been observed in our city in recent months. As a concerned citizen, I believe it is essential to address these issues to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
One of the primary causes of these accidents appears to be the widespread disregard for traffic rules. Many drivers, especially motorcyclists, have been seen violating traffic signals, exceeding speed limits, and engaging in reckless driving. These actions not only endanger their own lives but also put other road users at significant risk. Additionally, the lack of adherence to seatbelt and helmet laws further exacerbates the potential for fatal accidents.
The situation is particularly alarming during peak hours, where congested roads and impatient drivers create a chaotic environment. Pedestrians, too, are at risk due to vehicles not yielding at crosswalks or overtaking dangerously close to them. This disregard for traffic laws has made our roads increasingly unsafe, and urgent action is needed to mitigate this growing problem.
I kindly request the police department to take stringent measures to enforce traffic regulations more effectively. Increased surveillance, regular checks at key intersections, and stricter penalties for violators could serve as deterrents and encourage better adherence to traffic laws. Public awareness campaigns that educate drivers and pedestrians about the importance of road safety may also help reduce accidents.
SARFRAZ ISHAIQ
Karachi
Youth unemployment
The recent briefing from the Planning Commission to the Senate Committee on Planning has spotlighted a critical challenge facing Pakistan: the soaring rate of youth unemployment. As the number of young people in the country continues to rise, the gap between job opportunities and job seekers widens, creating a pressing issue that demands immediate attention.
Currently, Pakistan’s GDP growth hovers at a modest 3.5%, while a robust 7% growth is essential for substantial economic advancement. The digital census reveals a striking statistic: over 120 million Pakistanis are between the ages of 15 and 40. This burgeoning youthful population could be a game-changer for the economy if properly leveraged. However, the lack of skilled labour and insufficient investment in job creation means many young people are left without employment.
The World Bank’s forecast that unemployment could hit 10.4% by the year’s end highlights the urgency of the situation. To address this, the government must prioritize innovative employment initiatives tailored for the youth. Equipping young individuals with training in cutting-edge technologies and IT can pave the way for them to become self-sufficient and thrive in the modern job market.
Moreover, launching diverse employment schemes and bolstering the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can generate a multitude of job opportunities. These measures not only provide immediate relief but also stimulate long-term economic growth.
GULAB UMID
Turbat
Injustice with students
I would like to share some thoughts with you all, which, perhaps, you’re already aware of, that the MDCAT test took place a few days ago, in which many students applied. You all know that clearing this test requires immense effort and dedication, with students having to study day and night. Unfortunately, the results of this test, especially in Sindh, have been highly unfair. You see, a student works hard day and night to secure their seat, while others, using their connections or paying money, manage to buy their seat. I believe this is an injustice to the hardworking students, as it undermines their efforts.
In my opinion, this test should be re-conducted and a fair, transparent test should be held, so that those who truly deserve it get their rightful place, and those who get in through bribery or connections are pushed aside. If the MDCAT test is re-conducted, students can approach it with confidence and give their best. Right now, many students who saw the result are discouraged and disappointed, saying they don’t want to take the test again because there is no merit in Sindh. If there had been merit, Sindh wouldn’t be in the situation it is today.
WAQAR AHMED
Ghotki Sindh
