Suspension of aid from the US to affect health centres, 1.7 million Pakistanis I PM Sharif calls for a “meaningful and result-oriented dialogue” on Jammu and Kashmir
In Focus
President Zardari meets Chinese President Xi Jinping
On 5 February, President Asif Ali Zardari attended a meeting with his counterpart, President of China, Xi Jinping during his five-day visit to China. This meeting comes days after the Foreign Office of Pakistan rejected all “baseless and unfounded” assertions that Pakistan was engaging in anti-China activities, which included Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s earlier attendance at an event hosted by a US-based lobby called the New Federal State of China that promotes the dissolution of the ruling Communist party of China. President Zardari’s visit is thus aimed at reaffirming Pakistan and China’s partnership in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The meeting was held at the Great Hall of People in Beijing where both leaders discussed international issues, areas of common interests and opportunities to enhance bilateral partnership. Both sides highlighted the need to strengthen cultural exchanges in order to bolster the China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New Era. In his speech, President Zardari paid tribute to President Xi’s efforts towards global development under the Belt and Road Initiative. President Zardari invited President Xi to visit Pakistan while highlighting that the Pakistanis held him in high regard. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s allegiance to its “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” with China and highlighted their “special” and “time-tested” relationship.
This was followed by a session where both leaders bore witness to the signing of memorandums of understanding (MoUs). Both sides have sought to extend cooperation in the areas of clean energy, media, science and technology and socio-economic development. In the meantime, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Chinese Minister of Public Security, Qi Yanjun agreed to enhance their intelligence sharing to enhance security measures against cross border terrorism and counter terrorism measures. The ministers also discussed how Pakistan’s military and police can be modernized through Chinese-origin technology and expertise. Cooperation with National Police Academy was also a part of the talks, leading to an agreement on an increased cooperation between the Beijing Police and Islamabad Police. (Syed Irfan Raza & Ifthikar A Khan, “Zardari, Xi chart course for expansion of CPEC,” Dawn, 6 February 2025; “Zardari, Xi discuss CPEC 2.0 development,” The Nation, 6 February 2025; Nadir Guramani, “Zardari, Xi take note of Pak-China relationship’s ‘positive trajectory’, reaffirm support on core issues,” Dawn, 5 February 2025)
Suspension of aid from the US to affect health centres, 1.7 million Pakistanis
On 6 February, Dawn reported on the impacts of the termination of US aid to Pakistan. The US tops the list of countries that provides “development assistance.” Donald Trump, after assuming the presidency, had instructed to carry out an evaluation of “US foreign aid.” He had assigned the responsibility to Elon Musk who had earlier alleged that USAID is a “criminal organization.” In this regard, more than 60 health centres in the country have to be shut down that would alienate roughly 1.7 million people from accessing “life-saving reproductive health services.” This number also includes 1.2 million refugees from Afghanistan. The health centres operating in the country were being managed by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Pio Smith who is UNFPA’s Director for Asia and Pacific stated “millions of women and girls now face life-threatening risks due to lack of access to UNFPA’s crucial services.” He further confirmed that UNFPA’s initiatives which depended on aid from the US have been halted. He informed that UNFPA needs more than USD 308 million for continuing its operations in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
On 6 February, an editorial in The Nation titled “Self sufficiency” discussed how cutting of aid from US could be a boon for Pakistan, compelling it to become more self-dependent. The editorial pointed out that cutting of US aid would have inimical effects on regions which were depending upon it. The editorial notedhow US aid plays a significant role in building its soft power. The editorial cited initiatives in Pakistan such as “environment sustainability, Afghan refugee repartition and humanitarian support for vulnerable population” which were dependent on US aid. The editorial opined that this might compel Pakistan to not rely solely on foreign aid for its programmes. The editorial argued that depending upon large sums of foreign aid for national programmes is a “risky strategy.” The editorial pointed out how foreign aid often compels Pakistan to deviate from working in its self-interest. (Amin Ahmed, “US aid suspension to hit 60 health facilities in Pakistan,” Dawn, 6 February 2025; “Pause on US foreign assistance to affect 1.7m Pakistanis, including 1.2m Afghan refugees,” Dawn, 5 February 2025; “Self sufficiency,” The Nation, 6 February 2025)
PM Sharif calls for a “meaningful and result-oriented dialogue” on Jammu and Kashmir
On 6 February, Dawn reported that PM Sharif has advised India to participate in a “meaningful and result-oriented dialogue” for solving the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir. PM Sharif traveled to Muzaffarabad on “Kashmir Solidarity Day” which is observed by Pakistan every year on 5 February. He was accompanied by Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir in his visit to Martyrs’ monument situated in Muzaffarabad. Thereafter, PM Sharif went towards the legislative assembly. COAS, on the other hand, went to visit a close by “military installation” and spoke to a number of veterans there. COAS stated that Pakistan is prepared to counter any aggression from India and that no such measure would go “unanswered.” He expressed his firm belief that in future Jammu and Kashmir would be free and become “a part of Pakistan.”
In the legislative assembly of “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” PM Sharif stated that India should not be under any “misconception” that through suppression of people in Jammu and Kashmir, it can erase the “identity of Kashmiris.” He further stated that the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir cannot be solved by killing people residing in the region and destroying their homes. He further warned that Pakistan’s resolve towards ensuring peace should not be understood as its “weakness.” Further, he stated Pakistan will use all the power at its disposal to ensure safety of its “national interest.” In this regard, he referenced the carrying out of nuclear tests in 1998. He paid respects to terrorists like Burhan Wani who were killed by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally the Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly adopted a resolution that reiterated its continued “support for people’s right to self-determination” in Jammu and Kashmir. Many of the places in Gilgit Baltistan witnessed demonstrations such as in Skardu, Gilgit, Hunza and Astore. (Tariq Naqash, “PM class for meaningful talks on Kashmir issue,” Dawn, 6 February 2025: “PM urges India to engage in meaningful dialogue,” The News International, 6 February 2025; “‘No doubt’: COAS says Kashmir will become part of Pakistan one day,” The Express Tribune, 5 February 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS
Former PM Abbasi to lead opposition alliance formed by the PTI
On 6 February, an article in Dawn shed light on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s (PTI) attempts to convince Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to lead its opposition alliance. This developments comes after a collapse in dialogue between the PTI and the government, and the subsequent submission of a letter by Imran Khan to the Chief of Army General Asim Munir urging him to “reevaluate policies” to overcome the “trust deficit” between the people and the military. The PTI has also sought support from Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam founder (JUI-F) Maulana Fazlur Rehman and former Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) senator Mustufa Nawaz Khokhar. The article opined that Fazlur Rehman could play a significant role in carrying out an agitation against the government. Last year in April, the PTI had established a grand opposition alliance consisting of members from the Sunni Ittehad Council, the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, Balochistan National Party-Mengal, Jamaar-i-Islami as well as the Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen. Additionally, sources told Dawn that Abbasi was asked to head a steering committee which is yet to be constituted. He was selected by Khan as he is not a “controversial” figure. In this regard, PTI lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry said: “It is a fact that the PML-N and the PPP have lost political space and gave it to the establishment by depriving the PTI of its mandate.” (Ikram Junaidi, “PTI ropes in ex-PM Abbasi to steer opposition alliance,” Dawn, 6 February 2025)
On Imran Khan’s letter to the establishment: “Political players need to accord each other that same respect and value,” suggests an editorial in The News International
On 6 February, an editorial titled “Between the lines,” in The News International suggested that a recent letter submitted by Imran Khan to General Asim Munir maybe an attempt at “wooing the establishment.” The letter has a pro-citizen undertone to it as it criticizes the government’s policies and the February 8 election rigging. This has elicited a response from the government claiming that Khan is “attempting to create divisions between the army and the people.” Meanwhile, sources from the security side claimed that they did not receive a letter and stated that such deliberations must take place via civilian channels as political discussions don’t fall under the military’s domain. However, the PTI maintained that the letter was sent via open channels. In this regard, the editorial highlighted that the real issue does not lay in whether the letter was sent or not. The actual problem lies in the fact that Khan who once profited from the establishment’s support is now asking it to “return to its constitutional role.” It is a paradox. The editorial quoted observers who have emphasized that seeking assistance from unelected representatives as arbiters in political matters should be avoided. Instead, “political players need to accord each other that same respect and value.” (“Between the lines,” The News International, 6 February 2025)
ECONOMY
Pakistan may not meet its USD 60 billion export goal by 2027
On 5 February, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was informed by the Pakistan Business Council that the three-year target to increase exports by USD 60 billion might not be met. Separately, in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif they expressed that the fall in competition within the domestic market will increase reliance on imports and even suffer from the marked-up gas prices. It stated that even if Pakistan’s exports are likely to increase to a figure greater than USD 35 billion, it is not enough to remove the country from its debt cycle. These statements come as the government’s Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) increased the gas prices for in-house power generation by 18 per cent. Furthermore, the government has also introduced a levy of up to 20 per cent which will be implemented in four phases. Hence, the increase in gas prices and the imposition of new levies will is likely to bring the cost of gas to PKR 4,200 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) or USD 15 mmBtu from PKR 2400 mmBtu or USD 8.8 in November 2023. Comparing the newly estimated figure with the gas prices of neighboring states, the PBC highlighted that USD 15mmBtu is double the amount that is charged on confined units for gas supply in Bangladesh. In fact, the cost of re-gasified liquefied natural gas may be more than the global cost once all the levies are enforced. (Shehbaz Rana, “$60b export goal unlikely to be met,” The Express Tribune, 5 February 2025)
Government initiates digitization plans to enhance port operations
On 6 February, The News International reported that in order to modernize the maritime sector, a series of reforms have been initiated. These digital reforms within the sector are aimed at “enhancing efficiency, transparency, and economic growth.” The Task Force (TF) on Revamping of Pakistan’s Maritime Sector is the nodal body tasked with transforming Pakistan’s ports into modern hubs for international trade. These initiatives come as inefficiencies have been identified in the operation of ports due to the lack of digitalization, and transparency which have impeded the port’s potential to serve the economy. Some of the key initiatives are: Port Community System (PCS), Revamping of WeBOC (Web-Based One Customs), Real-Time Integration of Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), Digitisation of Financial Transactions, Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), Establishment of OGAs (Other Government Agencies) Offices, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems, Business Intelligence (BI) Dashboards, AI-driven risk management, and modernization of Port Scanners. (Ansar Abbasi, “Govt launches comprehensive ports’ digitisation plan,” The News International, 6 February 2025)
On declining cotton production: the reasons “range from government policy failures to farmers shifting from cotton to more profitable crops,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 6 February, an editorial titled “Cotton production” in Dawn highlighted the reasons behind the declining graph in cotton production in Pakistan. It observed that one of the major factors in the production decline is the failure of government policies. This relates to the unavailability of quality seeds, the unpreparedness to deal with the impacts of climate change and slow implementation of modern farming processes. Besides, very little has been done on the Research and Development side and even the scientific community has been unable to come up with feasible solutions. Consequently, farmers have been pushed to abandon cotton to a much more lucrative crop like sugarcane. In this regard, the editorial cited a recent moot attended by scientists, government officials, researchers and growers calling for was to “revitalize the cotton economy.” Additionally, even global initiatives are being made to “sustainable and better cotton” to promote environmental, social and economic sustainability of cotton production. Hence it would be ideal for the country to implement policy reform suggestions. But the editorial lamented: “if the past is any guide, there is little chance of the authorities considering these suggestions, let alone implementing the much-needed reforms.” (“Cotton production,” Dawn, 6 February 2025)
ENVIRONMENT
On the problem of climate change: “a proactive approach, built on long-term resilience, is the obvious way forward” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 6 February, an editorial in Dawn titled “No time left” discussed the severity of the effects of climate change and what the government should do to combat it. The editorial highlighted that Pakistan is one of the most susceptible countries around the world to effects of climate change and it has recently experienced “extreme heat, apocalyptic floods, prolonged droughts and choking air pollution.” The editorial voiced its concern for climate change not featuring in the political agenda. The editorial suggested that climate change must be included in “top national security concern.” It urged the government to enhance the state of public transport and impose penalties on those firms which do not comply with emission regulations. The editorial called for increasing green cover and protecting whatever forests are left in urban areas. Further, the editorial demanded that Pakistan switch towards “drought-resistant crops” so that the water table does not go down any further. The editorial further suggested that the news media not only focus on covering disasters when they strike but also emphasize on unearthing the reasons that had resulted in the disaster. (“No time left,” Dawn, 6 February 2025)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan does not feature in the priority list of Donald Trump administration, says The Express Tribune
On 6 February, The Express Tribune conveyed that there has still been no “formal contact” between the US and Pakistan since after Donald Trump assumed Presidency. As per the sources of The Express Tribune, US and Pakistan continue to maintain diplomatic contact, nevertheless, the new Donald Trump government has not attempted to establish any contact with the Pakistani counterpart. With no effort being made to establish “direct contact” with Pakistan, it has been argued that Pakistan does not feature in the priority list of the new Donald Trump administration. Pakistan has the history of being one of the countries that was strongly tilted towards the US. Nevertheless, this has taken a hit over the last few years. Reportedly, erstwhile US President Joe Biden during his second term of Presidency had not attempted to make any contact with Pakistan’s Prime Minister. The former Secretary of State never visited Islamabad. The new Donald Trump administration up until now has not made any specific remarks directed towards Pakistan. However, termination of US aid has resulted in severe problems for Pakistan. (Kamran Yousaf, “Pakistan-US relations strained by complete silence,” The Express Tribune, 6 February 2025)
INDIA VIEW
On dispute over Jammu and Kashmir: “Pakistan’s journey towards becoming a state for all the people of South Asia who wish to join it remains incomplete” argues an editorial in The Nation
On 6 February, an editorial in The Nation titled “Kashmir undefeated” discussed the rationale behind Pakistan’s continual support towards separation of Jammu and Kashmir from India. The editorial opined that Pakistan has not fulfilled the expectations for which it was created, which was that those regions which did not want to be with India would be given an opportunity to join Pakistan. The editorial claimed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have not been given their “right to self-determination” and that the Indian army is uninterruptedly committing “atrocities” against the people residing in the region. The editorial claimed that Pakistan’s “history, religion and geography” are different to that of India which is why it turned up as a separate entity. It further claimed that the basis of the formation of Pakistan is that people would have “right to self-determination” and that they are free to choose their own future. The editorial claimed that the “collective stance” conveyed by political leadership signifies its resolve towards the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir. (“Kashmir undefeated,” The Nation, 6 February 2025)
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"The state now stands only on the strength of the gun. If there were no gun, everything would be fine."
- PTI
The sacrifices of Kashmiris who laid down their lives in the struggle for their right to self-determination will not go in vain.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
- PMLN Digital
Writing an open letter is more credible, respectful, legal, constitutional, and in line with the principles of direct communication than sitting in cubicles and meeting.
Initzar Hussain Panjutha
- PTI Islamabad
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"What the political parties forget is that these laws can be used against them in the future."
- An opinion in Dawn, 'Spectre of authoritarianism.'
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