“New Page” claims media on Pakistan-Bangladesh relations I Foreign Minister Dar’s Kabul visit
In Focus
Cholistan Canal and the PPP-Government-Dialogue
On 20 April, Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N) held a dialogue with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). It comes as the PPP Chairman, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, threatened the government of leaving the coalition if the party’s demands pertaining to the Cholistan Canals project are not attended to. It concerns the federation’s plans to divert water from the Indus River via canals to irrigate the Cholistan desert. However, it may threaten Sindh’s access to water, drastically impacting agricultural productivity, livelihoods, and food security. In this regard, Bilawal said “The lion (election symbol of PML-N) always preys on the people’s blood, and the Shehbaz Sharif government’s policies are anti-farmer. Those planning this project owe their power to the PPP.” At this fifth PML-N-PPP Coordination Committee meeting, PML-N promised to address PPP’s reservations regarding the project.
Hence, the PPP communicated its concerns over the project in the meeting and called for the involvement of four provinces to arrive at a resolution at a Council of Common Interests meeting during the talks. Besides, the PPP also expressed its reservations over the local government legislation and the need for polls in Punjab. Delegations from both sides discussed several issues, especially the local government elections and Punjab’s farming community. Later, in a media statement, PPP leader Hasan Murtaza divulged his party’s decision to work with the government despite reservations in the interest of Pakistan’s future. He also highlighted the party’s objection to the present local government bill, for it lacks basic democratic values, and the governance structure is debatable. “It contains the potential for political victimization of individuals,” Hasan said.
Earlier, in a telephone conversation, Prime Minister’s Advisor Rana Sanaullah assured the Sindh Minister Sharjeel Memon that the federation will take up Sindh’s perturbation. It follows a directive from the PML-N President, Nawaz Sharif, to the centre to initiate dialogue with the PPP, as no political point scoring must be avoided on such sensitive matters. In a statement, Sanaullah cited the IRSA Act and the Water Accord that ensures fair resource distribution among the provinces while asserting constitutional authority. He remarked, “Politics should not be played over the issue of water. Matters must be resolved through dialogue and negotiation at the table.” In response, a Sindh information ministry statement alluded to the provincial government’s openness but no shift in its stance. It emphasized that it will not settle for any less until the canals project is shelved. “The PPP demands a fair water distribution for the people of Sindh under the 1991 Water Accord and is ready to negotiate with the federal government to address the issue,” Memon said.
On the other hand, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmed Khan noted how the Indus River System Authority has already decided water distribution between the provinces, and all parties have agreed to 107 million acre feet of water. But given the current context, in the presence of climate change, the water availability is around 10 million acre feet less than total capacity, he observed. Along with the Sindhis, even the people of Punjab have raised concerns over the impending water crisis. Hence, the issue must be resolved based on data and not a political standpoint, he opined, as both provinces had the right to “jealously guard” their share.
Meanwhile, according to Dawn, Sindh Chief Minister, Murad Ali Shah, hired a team of irrigation experts to conduct an on-ground assessment in Cholistan and Sulemanki headworks on the Sutlej river from 13 to 14 April. In its assessment report, the team found that construction of an embankment and canal bed that may be linked to the Cholistan Flood Feeder has stopped. A team member alluded to the “heated debate” generated by the project. This development comes a month after nationalist Sindh United Party leader Syed Zain Shah uploaded a video on social media, supposedly showing the ongoing construction of the canal. (Amjad Mahmood, “Talks to salvage PPP-‘N’ bond inch forward,” Dawn, 21 April 2025; Faizan Bangash, “PML-N, PPP agree to talk out canals issue,” The News International, 21 April 2025; Imran Ayub & Hamid Asghar, “Coalition partners resolve to settle water row thru talks,” Dawn, 21 April 2025; Zulqernain Tahir, “Nawaz calls for PPP-govt dialogue on water issue,” Dawn, 20 April 2025; “Centre Sindh set for water talks,” The Express Tribune, 21 April 2025; Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Sindh experts find ‘construction halted’ at Cholistan canal site,” Dawn, 21 April 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE
Balochistan Women Business Association highlights non-operation of union council
On 21 April, Dawn reported that around 27 per cent of the “union council” in Balochistan are still un-operational because of unavailability of the required funds. Also, up until now elections for Quetta Metropolitan Corporation (QMC) are still not conducted. This has resulted in QMC being directed by the administration. The revelation came during a meeting of Balochistan Women Business Association (BWBA) which was convened at Quetta Press Club. The meeting saw the presence of a number of “stakeholders” such as “Chief Officer of the Local Government Metropolitan Corporation Matiur Rehman Kasi” and erstwhile “councilors” like Yasmeen Mughal, Aslam Rind, Behram Baloch etc. Zahra Hassan who is the convener of BWBA stressed on the crucial part played by “local government” in resolving “public issues” on ground. The attendees of the session highlighted how the “local government” is an important part of “democratic governance.” They also pointed out the frail state of “local government” of Balochistan. (Saleem Shahid, “Over 27pc union councils of Balochistan non-functional,” Dawn, 21 April 2025)
On the importance of competent leadership: “muddling through economic, political and security challenges without a coherent plan or strategy doesn’t work,” says an opinion in Dawn
On 21 April, an opinion in Dawn titled “The leadership deficit” highlighted the lack of strong and effective leadership in Pakistan. Maleeha Lodhi highlighted that the present government has been more involved in self-praise rather than working on real issues. Lodhi noted how the majority of the Pakistanis believe that the country is heading in the “wrong direction.” Lodhi pointed out how previously incompetent people had assumed high political offices in the country. As per Lodhi, leadership should be such which can envision what challenges and opportunities could come in “future.” Also, the leadership must be able to bring everyone on the same page and effectively execute their “vision.” Further, Lodhi stated that the leadership must have the capacity to fend off the challenges that could come from “entrenched elites.” Lodhi contended that an effective leader would have a team in which members are selected on their “merit” and not on their “connections.” Lodhi highlighted how there is an urgent need for competent leadership amid a wide range of “disputes” which the country is witnessing. Another aspect of competent “leadership” as per Lodhi is that it must have the ability to motivate the “citizens” and also develop a “strong” bond and “trust” with them. (Maleeha Lodhi, “The leadership deficit,” Dawn, 21 April 2025)
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Halt in construction at Cholistan canal site: Sindh irrigation experts
On 21 April, Dawn divulged a halt in construction at the Cholistan canal site. A team of irrigation experts was constituted by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to conduct an on-ground assessment in Cholistan and visit the Sulemanki headworks on the Sutlej river from 13 April to 14 April. Information obtained from the members revealed that construction work on an embankment strip of an irrigation channel linked to the Cholistan Flood Feeder was paused. Last month, a video circulated by the Sindh United Party leader, Syed Zain Shah, claimed ongoing construction on the canal on the Marot branch. However, the team rejected the claims as no construction activity was visible at the starting point of the canal, the Sulemanki headworks. The team attributed this halt to the debate that followed the construction. Presently, all machinery is idle, and staff at the headworks have no answers to the rationale behind it. (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Sindh experts find ‘construction halted’ at Cholistan canal site,” Dawn, 21 April 2025)
On climate action: “Only those truly suffering” the effects of climate change “understand what that really means,” argues an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 21 April, in an opinion titled “The climate hypocrisy in Pakistan,” in The Express Tribune, Mizra Mujtaba Baig highlighted the growing gap between the people and their representatives in the context of climate change. He began by shedding light on the class divide among the citizens. The lack of connection stems from their different experiences. The representatives coincide with the privileged who have access to relief from the impacts of climate change, while the poor stand at the frontline of the climate battle. Despite the circumstances, the author censured the willful ignorance of the representative towards those living in poverty due to climate change. He asked: “Is this what real climate leadership looks like in Pakistan?” On the flip side, there exist capable individuals in society with top-class education who live modestly. This helps them garner support from elite circles and the public as they switch between their fluent English and Urdu to win funding. However, once funds are secured, the issues begin from there. The individual’s lack of connection with the common man leads them to hire people on the ground. Unfortunately, they often pick the wrong persons to represent the community as they view the system as an opportunity to fulfill their interests. Consequently, very little support is garnered from the ultimate benefactor. The author attributed low support to other factors, like the fear of backlash and inaccurate identification of the true benefactors. However, the lack of initiative among the NGOs must also be underscored. The author observed a trend among NGOs that struggle to mobilize grassroots to promote climate action. Instead of finding solutions to the impediments, they move to the lower middle class. Despite their inability to connect with communities “and continued reliance on partner organizations, they keep elevating their target groups.” Eventually, they may end up with the upper layers of society, those from which they originate, bringing all efforts back to square one. (Mizra Mujtaba Baig, “The climate hypocrisy in Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 21 April 2025)
SECURITY
Counter-terrorism department of Balochistan police neutralizes five militants in Duki
On 19 April, the Counter-terrorism Department (CTD) of Balochistan police led an operation against militants who were hiding in Duki. The militants and security forces engaged in “an hour” long gunfight that resulted in five militants getting neutralized. As per the CTD, militants were preparing to launch assaults in Duki and Ziarat. The CTD officials informed that the “hideouts” of the militants were demolished, and a huge number of “arms, ammunition and equipment” were confiscated. Mohsin Naqvi, who is the Interior Minister, praised the CTD forces for effectively neutralizing the threat. Commending their valor, he said “we salute the courage of the young officers who carried out this mission with exceptional bravery.” Chief Minister of Balochistan Sarfraz Bugti also praised the efficacy of the CTD in neutralizing the militants in Duki. He reassured that the “state institutions” remain resolved to root out militancy from Balochistan. (Saleem Shahid, “Five militants killed in Duki operation,” Dawn, 20 April 2025)
EXTERNAL
"New Page" claims media on Pakistan-Bangladesh relations
On 21 April, an editorial in Dawn titled “A new page” discussed the resurgence of Pakistan-Bangladesh ties. The editorial highlighted how the visit of Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch to Bangladesh has helped in revitalization of bilateral relationship. The editorial mentioned that the high-profile diplomatic meet has come after a gap of 15 years. The editorial pointed out how Hasina led government had maintained cordial ties with India and not Pakistan. The editorial mentioned that Bangladesh has yet again asked for a formal “apology” from Islamabad for the 1971 massacre. The editorial highlighted how Pakistan in the past had tried to address the issue. The erstwhile President, Pervez Musharraf had acknowledged Dhaka’s concerns in 2002 when he visited Bangladesh. The editorial urged that the two countries must not let the same be a roadblock in the path towards revitalization of ties. The editorial suggested that the both countries must work towards improving trade, academic and people to people” ties.
On 21 April, an opinion in The Express Tribune titled “Pakistan, Bangladesh historic reset” discussed Bangladesh’s ties after the ousting of Sheikh Hasina led government with India and Pakistan. The author, Kamran Yousaf mentioned that the Hasina led government had put forward the condition of a “formal” apology from Pakistan for its acts in 1971 before it improves ties with Islamabad. Yousaf terms the same as an “excuse.” As per Yousaf, Hasina led government in Bangladesh was under tremendous influence from New Delhi. Further, Yousaf alleges that India’s intelligence agency had successfully built its strong influence in the “bureaucracy and military” of Bangladesh. Yousaf points out the “strategic” importance of Bangladesh for India. He mentioned how Bangladesh assisted New Delhi in neutralizing anti-India militants who were present in the “North East” of India. Yousaf claims that Hasina’s close ties with India had led to public resentment, which ultimately led to her ouster. Yousaf mentioned the recent attempts made by Pakistan and Bangladesh to revitalize ties after the ouster of Hasina led government. Yousaf also mentions Dhaka yet again raising the issue of getting a “formal” apology from Pakistan. Yousaf contended that in spite of India’s reservation, Dhaka and Islamabad would attempt to rebuild ties.
(“A new page,” Dawn, 21 April 2025; Kamran Yousaf, “Pakistan, Bangladesh historic reset,” The Express Tribune, 21 April 2025)
AF-PAK
Afghan Interim PM vows to not allow militants to carry out attacks from Afghanistan
On 19 April, the interim Prime Minister of Afghanistan, Mullah Hasan Akhund vowed that the Taliban government would not permit militants to launch attacks against other countries from its territory. The remarks came after he met Pakistan’s Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. A “statement” released by the Interim PM’s office read “the Prime Minister assured the Pakistani delegation that Afghan territory will not be used against any nation, including its neighbors.” Ishaq Dar’s visit to Afghanistan signifies Pakistan’s attempt to re-start dialogue with Afghanistan after a brief impasse in their diplomatic relations. Pakistan has continually voiced concerns over militants from Afghanistan launching attacks on Pakistan. Islamabad also responded with “military strikes” to demolish safe havens of militants in Afghanistan. In addition to that, it has also expedited the repatriation process of Afghan refugees. Previously, the Foreign Office had stated that “terrorism” was a major “concern” when it comes to ties with Afghanistan. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Afghan soil will not be used for hostile acts: Kabul,” Dawn, 20 April 2025)
Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Dar visits Kabul amid heightened tensions
On 19 April, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited Kabul. Dar was accompanied by a high-profile “delegation” that consisted of Special Representative for Afghanistan Sadiq Khan, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa among several others. Kabul and Islamabad have expressed their resolve to improve “bilateral” ties. Both countries also stressed on increasing collaboration in “security, trade, and transit” Dar stated that Afghanistan was his “second home.” He further stated that the two countries would not permit any outside power to tarnish the “brotherly atmosphere” which exists between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He yet again reminded Islamabad’s stand against militancy. Further, he stated that both Pakistan and Afghanistan would not permit their land being utilized for “terror-related activities.” Dar also informed that “Transit Track and Trade System” would come into force from 30 June. This would facilitate the “transit” of goods produced in Afghanistan. Dar also stated that the dignity of Afghan refugees who would be repatriated from Pakistan will remain unharmed. Further, he claimed that the government is not obstructing people from buying “properties” which are being sold by Afghan refugees who are going back.
On 21 April, an editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Deal with Kabul” discussed the implications of the recent visit of Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Kabul. The editorial mentioned that during the meeting between the two foreign ministers, matters related to clamping down on Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, deportation of Afghan refugees and improving trade ties were discussed. The editorial highlighted how the diplomatic engagement has come as a big relief amid the surge in border skirmishes and finger pointing. The editorial expressed content towards both countries agreeing to ensure the dignity of the deported refugees. The editorial also appreciates Kabul and Islamabad for agreeing on letting their lands be used for cross-border terrorism. The editorial views the establishment of a high-profile “committee of intelligence personnel and interior official” as a crucial measure, headed towards a positive “direction.” (Mariana Baabar, “Dar meets Afghan leadership: Deportees to be treated with full respect, Kabul assured,” The News International, 20 April 2025; “Deal with Kabul” The Express Tribune, 21 April 2025)
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Punjab government has no involvement in ban on meeting Imran Khan.
Uzma Bukhari
- Hussain Ahmed Ch
The establishment, which has been misleading this nation for 70 years, is suffering the most from social media, and now, because of this same social media, it is no longer able to mislead it.
- Qasim Khan Suri
I have full hope in Allah Almighty that, God willing, we will definitely succeed in eradicating polio through collective efforts. Adequate security arrangements have been made in areas where there are security problems.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
- PMLN
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"Pakistan’s challenges need effective and visionary leaders to tackle them and break from the past."
- An opinion in Dawn, 'The leadership deficit.’
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