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.
SCO and Kashmir
The regional conference of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO 2023) is scheduled to transpire in the very first week of May 2023 in Goa, India. Evidently, this conference seems to be an effective initiative to tie knots of regional harmony. India, the hosting president of the meeting has extended an invitation to the neigh boring Central Asian countries including its arch-rival Pakistan. Nonetheless, after being stalemated in a deadlock on the decision since January, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opted to go ahead by sending a delegation headed by Mr.Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
Besides all the stuff, the point worth noting that pops into mind is that will Pakistan be raising the boiling-hot issue of Kashmir despite being burning in the internal conflicts of political vengeance. Keeping in mind that the ousted Premier Imran Khan had hosted two consecutive conferences of OIC during his time in office to denounce human rights violations; whether the prompted council of foreign ministers will be a platform for Pakistan to raise slogans for Kashmiri sufferers.
The answer to this question is crystal clear; Either Pakistan will be asking for a helping hand to make its economy stay afloat by compromising on the hundreds of thousands of lives of innocent Kashmiris or Pakistan will be mainstreaming its concern about the basic right of freedom of Kashmiri people. Taking all things into consideration, we have to keep our uncertain eyes on the meeting and should expect an effective foreign policy or so-called agenda from the concerned officials.
MOHSIN MUMTAZ
Chiniot
Generation gap
I am writing to you to share my thoughts on the topic of the generation gap, which is becoming more pronounced with the passage of time. The generation gap is a term used to describe the difference in attitude, belief and behaviour between different age groups. It is a natural phenomenon which has been observed throughout history, but in today’s fast-paced world, it seems to be widening.
As we progress into the future, we see more and more differences between the older and younger generations. This can be attributed to various factors, including changes in technology, lifestyle, and values.
Older generations tend to have a more conservative outlook, with values that were prevalent during their formative years. They often view younger generations as being disrespectful and lacking in morals. On the other hand, younger generations are more liberal, open-minded and technologically savvy. They are quick to embrace change and are not afraid to challenge traditional norms. While the generation gap can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings, it is essential to recognize that both generations have something to offer. The older generation has years of experience and wisdom, while the younger generation brings fresh ideas and perspectives. In conclusion, I believe that it is essential to bridge the gap between different generations.
We must learn to appreciate and respect each other’s differences, and work towards a more harmonious future. It is up to both older and younger generations to find common ground and work together towards a brighter tomorrow.
Abid Hussain
Karachi
Petrol hike
Petrol prices in Pakistan have been a contentious issue for several years, as the country heavily relies on imported oil. The prices of petroleum products are regularly revised by the government based on fluctuations in international oil prices and the exchange rate of the Pakistani rupee.
In recent times, the cost of petrol has risen sharply in Pakistan due to multiple factors, including the increase in global oil prices, depreciation of the Pakistani rupee, and high taxes on petroleum products. The frequent hike in petrol prices has caused significant inflation and economic hardship for the general public, particularly those who depend on transportation for their livelihoods.
Furthermore, the government of Pakistan recently announced a further hike in petrol prices by Rs. 10 per litre. This increase in petrol prices is expected to create a ripple effect on the economy, leading to increased prices of other goods and services, further compounding the challenges faced by the public.
Families may have to cut back on other expenses to make both ends meet, and the rise in the prices of goods and services will further increase the cost of living. It may also result in a decrease in consumer spending and a reduction in economic growth, leading to job losses and an adverse impact on the economy. The authorities concerned may take steps which may lead to less and less burden on the general masses.
MAHEEN AZAM
Karachi
Box letter
Tobacco use
Tobacco use is a major public health issue in Pakistan with an estimated 22 million adults using tobacco products, according to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS). Recent estimates put the number of tobacco users at 31 million in the country. While traditional tobacco control measures such as taxation, regulation and public health campaigns have had some success in reducing tobacco use, these measures have not been enough to eliminate it completely. Harm reduction strategy focuses on reducing the harm associated with behaviour rather than trying to eliminate it altogether. In the context of tobacco use, a harm reduction strategy could include measures such as promoting the use of alternative nicotine delivery products such as electronic cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and nicotine replacement therapy. While these products are not risk-free, they are widely recognized as being significantly less harmful than smoking cigarettes. A recent report by the Royal College of Physicians in the UK found e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than smoking. Pakistan should consider harm reduction strategy as part of its overall approach to reducing tobacco use. This could include measures such as promoting the use of alternative nicotine delivery products, making them more widely available and encouraging smokers to switch to these less harmful products. Some may have concerns about harm reduction strategy, but I believe they offer a promising approach to reducing the harm associated with tobacco use.
SARNAWAZ SALAMAT
Islamabad
