Pak, China continued tumult in 2020, still world reposed faith in India

Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Saturday approved the release of Rs 2.35 crore to purchase the ancestral houses of legendary Bollywood actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor located in the heart of this city and declared as the national heritages.

Pakistan approves Rs 2.35 cr to buy houses of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Friday that the opposition's movement would no longer be directed only at the Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government but also "his backers".

The opposition alliance chief said that rifts within the PDM are a campaign run by the media and added that the PDM is more determined to rid the country of Imran Khan and his illegitimate government.

Dawn reported that the opposition after a meeting of the PDM leaders in Raiwind, Rehman said it was decided after detailed discussions that the opposition will participate in the upcoming by-elections but there had been no decision on contesting in the Senate elections.

"In principle, we are not opposed to the elections of any institution but there is some time until [Senate polls]," he said, adding that the final decision will be taken in future PDM meetings while keeping in view the prevailing conditions, as quoted by Dawn.

"PDM has come out stronger than before and is more determined than before to rid the nation of this illegitimate government," said the PDM chief and added that all PDM constituent parties had reported to the meeting today that the resignations of "all" opposition lawmakers had reached their party leaderships, in accordance with the Dec 31 date given for this purpose by the alliance, as reported by Dawn.

"So one of the targets has been achieved today," he said, reiterating that the government had one month to resign.

Rehman said if the premier refused to step down by January 31, the PDM leadership will announce the long march to Islamabad and decide its date.

"It will also decide whether the long march should be staged towards Islamabad or to Rawalpindi," Rehman added. Rawalpindi is a metonym for the headquarters of the Pakistan Army.

"We agree that the establishment has held the entire system hostage by turning Pakistan into a deep state. Imran Khan is a pawn [and] the people who did rigging and imposed him upon the nation, we want to make it clear [to them that] we blame the establishment and army leadership for this," the PDM chief said.

He continued: "The direction of our criticism will now be manifestly aimed at them (establishment). Now it is for them to decide whether they will further sink their claws on Pakistan's politics or retreat and move towards their constitutional responsibilities."

The PDM chief said that the alliance considered the army "as our army" and it respected all generals. "But when this defence power interferes in politics forgoing its professional duties, it creates confusions".

"All parties are unanimous that the movement's direction should not be turned only towards the pawn but also against his backers," he said further.

He announced that the alliance would stage a demonstration in front of the Election Commission of Pakistan offices in Islamabad on January 19, while a similar protest was being planned to be held in front of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) headquarters as well.

According to Dawn, Rehman said that all opposition members summoned by NAB had appeared before it but said that "it has been proven that this is not accountability but revenge".

PDM has demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan till January 31 and in case of denial for this demand, the front has announced a rally against the government.

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Friday that the opposition's movement would no longer be directed only at the Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government but also "his backers".

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Friday that the opposition's movement would no longer be directed only at the Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government but also "his backers". The opposition alliance chief said that rifts within the PDM are a campaign run by the media and added that the PDM is more determined to rid the country of Imran Khan and his illegitimate government. Dawn reported that the opposition after a meeting of the PDM leaders in Raiwind, Rehman said it was decided after detailed discussions that the opposition will participate in the upcoming by-elections but there had been no decision on contesting in the Senate elections. "In principle, we are not opposed to the elections of any institution but there is some time until [Senate polls]," he said, adding that the final decision will be taken in future PDM meetings while keeping in view the prevailing conditions, as quoted by Dawn. "PDM has come out stronger than before and is more determined than before to rid the nation of this illegitimate government," said the PDM chief and added that all PDM constituent parties had reported to the meeting today that the resignations of "all" opposition lawmakers had reached their party leaderships, in accordance with the Dec 31 date given for this purpose by the alliance, as reported by Dawn. "So one of the targets has been achieved today," he said, reiterating that the government had one month to resign. Rehman said if the premier refused to step down by January 31, the PDM leadership will announce the long march to Islamabad and decide its date. "It will also decide whether the long march should be staged towards Islamabad or to Rawalpindi," Rehman added. Rawalpindi is a metonym for the headquarters of the Pakistan Army. "We agree that the establishment has held the entire system hostage by turning Pakistan into a deep state. Imran Khan is a pawn [and] the people who did rigging and imposed him upon the nation, we want to make it clear [to them that] we blame the establishment and army leadership for this," the PDM chief said. He continued: "The direction of our criticism will now be manifestly aimed at them (establishment). Now it is for them to decide whether they will further sink their claws on Pakistan's politics or retreat and move towards their constitutional responsibilities." The PDM chief said that the alliance considered the army "as our army" and it respected all generals. "But when this defence power interferes in politics forgoing its professional duties, it creates confusions". "All parties are unanimous that the movement's direction should not be turned only towards the pawn but also against his backers," he said further. He announced that the alliance would stage a demonstration in front of the Election Commission of Pakistan offices in Islamabad on January 19, while a similar protest was being planned to be held in front of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) headquarters as well. According to Dawn, Rehman said that all opposition members summoned by NAB had appeared before it but said that "it has been proven that this is not accountability but revenge". PDM has demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan till January 31 and in case of denial for this demand, the front has announced a rally against the government.

Party determined to rid Pak of illegitimate Imran Khan govt: PDM chief

It's a new year but same story for India's neighbour Pakistan. A temple has been desecrated and demolished, the Pakistan High Commission in London has been forced to pay a hefty fine and Pakistani Opposition's movement is gaining strength. And as if all of this wasn't enough. Pakistani clerics too have launched an anti-govt movement.

On Wednesday, an angry mob demolished a Hindu temple in Karak District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The mob ripped the bricks from the walls and set them on fire. The Chief Justice of Pakistan has promised to take up the matter.

On Friday there were protests in India in solidarity with the minorities of Pakistan. Protesters in Jammu took out a march and burnt Pakistani flags. New Delhi too has lodged a strong protest. It has asked Islamabad to investigate the matter and take strict action against those responsible for the demolition.

This message was conveyed to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

Meanwhile, Pak high commission in London has also received a message. It's an enormous bill of USD 28.7 million. A UK court has ordered this amount to be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission.

The action has been taken due to non-payment of penalty by National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-is-pakistan-ringing-in-the-new-year-353932">WATCH|</a>

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A British firm once helped Parvez Musharraf government track down foreign assets purchased through ill-gotten wealth.

The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan or (NAB) was tasked to assist the firm.

It ended up owing 22 million dollars to the firm for its operations. The NAB failed to pay this amount. Then in 2018 a UK court set 31st December 2020 as the deadline for this payment. Pakistan failed to meet the deadline again.

It has now been asked to pay the amount plus a fine of 6.7 million dollars. A total of 28.7 million dollars will be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission. That is if they have such money in their account.

Meanwhile back in Pakistan, the Opposition has gone into a huddle to come up with a united stance.

Pakistan Democratic Movement, the Opposition alliance held a meeting in Lahore. Mass resignation was discussed in the meet. All PDM legislators are planning to tender their resignations in first week of February.

Their resignations will paralyse the government and force Imran Khan to call early elections. PDM rallies have been attracting huge crowds despite hurdles by the Imran Khan govt.

They want to make the most of the rising anti-govt sentiment during this pandemic. So do some influential Pakistani clerics like Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman. He has announced a campaign against the FATF legislation passed by the Pakistan 
Parliament in august 2020.

It's a legislation designed to hoodwink the FATF and stay on its grey list. This legislation is aimed at freezing &amp; seizing the assets of individuals, organisations or madrassas that are on the sanctions list of the United Nations.

This law also requires all religious institutions to be registered with the govt. Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman says the law is a conspiracy against Islamic institutions.

He says its a garb to impose religious restrictions. Which according to him are not acceptable in an Islamic republic like Pakistan.

So we have Religious intolerance, non-payment of dues, a united Opposition and angry clerics in Pakistan as it starts a new year.

It is a new year yes, but certainly not Naya Pakistan

It's a new year but same story for India's neighbour Pakistan. A temple has been desecrated and demolished, the Pakistan High Commission in London has been forced to pay a hefty fine and Pakistani Opposition's movement is gaining strength.

It's a new year but same story for India's neighbour Pakistan. A temple has been desecrated and demolished, the Pakistan High Commission in London has been forced to pay a hefty fine and Pakistani Opposition's movement is gaining strength. And as if all of this wasn't enough. Pakistani clerics too have launched an anti-govt movement. On Wednesday, an angry mob demolished a Hindu temple in Karak District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The mob ripped the bricks from the walls and set them on fire. The Chief Justice of Pakistan has promised to take up the matter. On Friday there were protests in India in solidarity with the minorities of Pakistan. Protesters in Jammu took out a march and burnt Pakistani flags. New Delhi too has lodged a strong protest. It has asked Islamabad to investigate the matter and take strict action against those responsible for the demolition. This message was conveyed to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Meanwhile, Pak high commission in London has also received a message. It's an enormous bill of USD 28.7 million. A UK court has ordered this amount to be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission. The action has been taken due to non-payment of penalty by National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan. WATCH| × A British firm once helped Parvez Musharraf government track down foreign assets purchased through ill-gotten wealth. The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan or (NAB) was tasked to assist the firm. It ended up owing 22 million dollars to the firm for its operations. The NAB failed to pay this amount. Then in 2018 a UK court set 31st December 2020 as the deadline for this payment. Pakistan failed to meet the deadline again. It has now been asked to pay the amount plus a fine of 6.7 million dollars. A total of 28.7 million dollars will be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission. That is if they have such money in their account. Meanwhile back in Pakistan, the Opposition has gone into a huddle to come up with a united stance. Pakistan Democratic Movement, the Opposition alliance held a meeting in Lahore. Mass resignation was discussed in the meet. All PDM legislators are planning to tender their resignations in first week of February. Their resignations will paralyse the government and force Imran Khan to call early elections. PDM rallies have been attracting huge crowds despite hurdles by the Imran Khan govt. They want to make the most of the rising anti-govt sentiment during this pandemic. So do some influential Pakistani clerics like Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman. He has announced a campaign against the FATF legislation passed by the Pakistan Parliament in august 2020. It's a legislation designed to hoodwink the FATF and stay on its grey list. This legislation is aimed at freezing & seizing the assets of individuals, organisations or madrassas that are on the sanctions list of the United Nations. This law also requires all religious institutions to be registered with the govt. Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman says the law is a conspiracy against Islamic institutions. He says its a garb to impose religious restrictions. Which according to him are not acceptable in an Islamic republic like Pakistan. So we have Religious intolerance, non-payment of dues, a united Opposition and angry clerics in Pakistan as it starts a new year. It is a new year yes, but certainly not Naya Pakistan

A new year, but no 'Naya Pakistan'

Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Saturday approved the release of Rs 2.35 crore to purchase the ancestral houses of legendary Bollywood actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor located in the heart of this city and declared as the national heritages.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mehmud Khan formally approved the proposal, allowing the authorities concerned to purchase the ancestral Havelis at a rate determined by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Communication and Works Department (C&amp;W) a few weeks back.

Deputy Commissioner of Peshawar Muhammad Ali Asghar, following a report of the Communication and Works Department, has fixed the price of Dilip Kumar's four marla (101 square metres) house for Rs 80.56 lakh while that of Raj Kapoor's six marla house (151.75 square metres) for Rs 1.50 crore.

Marla, a traditional unit of area used in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, is considered as equal to 272.25 square feet or 25.2929 square metres. After procurement, both the houses will be converted into a museum by the KP archaeology department.

The archaeology department had sent a formal request to the provincial government for releasing over Rs 2 crore for purchasing both the historic buildings, where the two greats of the Indian cinema were born and raised in their early days before the Partition.

Raj Kapoor's ancestral home, known as Kapoor Haveli, is situated in the fabled Qissa Khwani Bazar. It was built between 1918 and 1922 by the legendary actor's grandfather Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor. Raj Kapoor and his uncle Trilok Kapoor were born in the building.

It has been declared national heritage by the provincial government. Veteran actor Dilip Kumar's over the 100-year-old ancestral house is also located in the same locality. The house is in shambles and was declared as a national heritage in 2014 by the then Nawaz Sharif government.

The owners of the two buildings made several attempts in the past to demolish them for constructing commercial plazas in view of their prime location but all such moves were stopped as the archaeology department wanted to preserve them, keeping in view their historic importance.

Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Saturday approved the release of Rs 2.35 crore to purchase the ancestral houses of legendary Bollywood actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor located in the heart of this city and declared as the national heritages. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mehmud Khan formally approved the proposal, allowing the authorities concerned to purchase the ancestral Havelis at a rate determined by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Communication and Works Department (C&W) a few weeks back. Deputy Commissioner of Peshawar Muhammad Ali Asghar, following a report of the Communication and Works Department, has fixed the price of Dilip Kumar's four marla (101 square metres) house for Rs 80.56 lakh while that of Raj Kapoor's six marla house (151.75 square metres) for Rs 1.50 crore. Marla, a traditional unit of area used in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, is considered as equal to 272.25 square feet or 25.2929 square metres. After procurement, both the houses will be converted into a museum by the KP archaeology department. The archaeology department had sent a formal request to the provincial government for releasing over Rs 2 crore for purchasing both the historic buildings, where the two greats of the Indian cinema were born and raised in their early days before the Partition. Raj Kapoor's ancestral home, known as Kapoor Haveli, is situated in the fabled Qissa Khwani Bazar. It was built between 1918 and 1922 by the legendary actor's grandfather Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor. Raj Kapoor and his uncle Trilok Kapoor were born in the building. It has been declared national heritage by the provincial government. Veteran actor Dilip Kumar's over the 100-year-old ancestral house is also located in the same locality. The house is in shambles and was declared as a national heritage in 2014 by the then Nawaz Sharif government. The owners of the two buildings made several attempts in the past to demolish them for constructing commercial plazas in view of their prime location but all such moves were stopped as the archaeology department wanted to preserve them, keeping in view their historic importance.

Pakistani authorities approve Rs 2.35 crore to buy ancestral houses of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor

An alliance of Pakistani opposition parties the PDM has reiterated its ultimatum to the Imran Khan-led government and said that the puppet regime has only 30 days to step down. The alliance, however, has decided to participate in the by-polls although they have deferred the decision on contesting the Senate elections to a later date.

Pakistan: PDM defers decision on Senate elections

Praising the Chinese development model, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday said his government wants to learn from China's industrial development to accelerate economic growth and eradicate poverty.

"If we can learn from any one country in the world, it is China. Their development model suits Pakistan the best," Khan said while speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad.

"The speed with which China developed in the last 30 years is something we can learn from," he added.

Khan said that Beijing had managed to prove that poverty alleviation is real development.

"The way they industrialised, made special export zones, brought investments from abroad, and used those investments to increase their exports, all resulted in China increasing its wealth," he said.

"They used that money to bring their population out of poverty [...] there is no other example of this in history."

He said that his government was focused on making Pakistan a welfare state and eradicating poverty.

China last month announced that all registered impoverished counties in the world's most populous country have shaken off poverty.

Khan said that the government had made special economic zones to attract and relocate Chinese industries so that they can export their products from Pakistan.

The prime minister said that the new year would be the year of economic growth as the country was moving in the right direction.

''Our exports are increasing as compared to our competitors, so Pakistan is headed in the right direction,''&nbsp;he said.

Khan said his government would focus on industrial development during the current year that would have a positive impact on economic growth. He noted that the cement and textile sectors recorded fast growth in recent months.

The premier said that the government's policy was simple and based on the concept of supporting business for the creation of wealth that would lead to prosperity.

He said the government has dealt with the COVID-19 challenge in the country effectively.

Separately, Khan in a series of tweets said that 2020 was a tough year for Pakistan and the world because of the pandemic.

''But by the grace of God, we fared far better than most. We not only managed to protect our people but also saved them from hunger. We are moving forward to making Pakistan a welfare State,''&nbsp;he said.

He made two New Year resolutions for 2021 about completing two projects.

''One, universal health coverage to all our citizens. It has begun in KP (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa) and&nbsp;will soon in Punjab and&nbsp;GB (Gilgit-Baltistan). We hope other provinces will replicate this programme,''&nbsp;he said.

''Two, we will start our most ambitious nationwide project "Koi Bhuka Na Soyay" (No one should sleep hungry) under Ehsaas programme. By the end of the year, these two projects will move us closer to our goal of making Pakistan a welfare state,''&nbsp;he said.

Praising the Chinese development model, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday said his government wants to learn from China's industrial development to accelerate economic growth and eradicate poverty.

Praising the Chinese development model, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday said his government wants to learn from China's industrial development to accelerate economic growth and eradicate poverty. "If we can learn from any one country in the world, it is China. Their development model suits Pakistan the best," Khan said while speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad. "The speed with which China developed in the last 30 years is something we can learn from," he added. Khan said that Beijing had managed to prove that poverty alleviation is real development. "The way they industrialised, made special export zones, brought investments from abroad, and used those investments to increase their exports, all resulted in China increasing its wealth," he said. "They used that money to bring their population out of poverty [...] there is no other example of this in history." He said that his government was focused on making Pakistan a welfare state and eradicating poverty. China last month announced that all registered impoverished counties in the world's most populous country have shaken off poverty. Khan said that the government had made special economic zones to attract and relocate Chinese industries so that they can export their products from Pakistan. The prime minister said that the new year would be the year of economic growth as the country was moving in the right direction. ''Our exports are increasing as compared to our competitors, so Pakistan is headed in the right direction,'' he said. Khan said his government would focus on industrial development during the current year that would have a positive impact on economic growth. He noted that the cement and textile sectors recorded fast growth in recent months. The premier said that the government's policy was simple and based on the concept of supporting business for the creation of wealth that would lead to prosperity. He said the government has dealt with the COVID-19 challenge in the country effectively. Separately, Khan in a series of tweets said that 2020 was a tough year for Pakistan and the world because of the pandemic. ''But by the grace of God, we fared far better than most. We not only managed to protect our people but also saved them from hunger. We are moving forward to making Pakistan a welfare State,'' he said. He made two New Year resolutions for 2021 about completing two projects. ''One, universal health coverage to all our citizens. It has begun in KP (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa) and will soon in Punjab and GB (Gilgit-Baltistan). We hope other provinces will replicate this programme,'' he said. ''Two, we will start our most ambitious nationwide project "Koi Bhuka Na Soyay" (No one should sleep hungry) under Ehsaas programme. By the end of the year, these two projects will move us closer to our goal of making Pakistan a welfare state,'' he said.

Imran Khan says his government wants to learn from China's development model to eradicate poverty

5 countries normalised ties with Israel this year. Will Pakistan be next? A statement from Prime Minister Imran Khan triggered intense speculation. Now, religious leaders have supported the idea. WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Will Pakistan normalise ties with Israel?

If Pakistan formalises ties with Israel, Islamabad stands to lose allies and FATF votes. Imran Khan will also lose support at home. Will Pakistan still go ahead with it? WION's Palki Sharma has the details

Gravitas: Is it wise for Pakistan to formalise ties with Israel?

Pakistan is a part of a club of 28 countries that do not recognise Israel. But that hasn't stopped the engagement between the two sides. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the story of the complicated relationship between Israel and Pakistan.

Gravitas | Pakistan-Israel Ties: A complicated relationship

In the last two months, five countries have normalised relations with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco and Bhutan.

Now, there is intense speculation whether Pakistan will be next with journalists to pundits weighing in. However, Israel and Pakistan haven't said anything but there have been feelers.

The idea has high profile backers as members of the Pakistani military establishment support it. Some religious leaders also like the prospect of a partnership, however, Islamabad may not have the stomach to go ahead with it.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan had issued a statement in November claiming that Pakistan was under pressure from the United States to befriend Israel.

However, when asked had any Arab country made a similar demand, PM Imran Khan said: "there are things we cannot say. We have good relations with them."

Although the good-relations bit is debatable, Imran Khan's words triggered intense speculation as the Pakistani media began debating the subject. Some of them said it's time for a change.

Experts from Pakistan ended up on Israeli channels advocating better ties between Pakistan and Israel and within a week the Pakistan government was forced to issue another denial.

The Pakistan foreign ministry "categorically rejected" what it called baseless speculation and since then, Pakistan has made every effort to distance itself from the idea.

In fact, the story got so big that even the Pakistani army had to issue a statement. They supported the Pakistan government's stand, however, the reports have not died down as religious leaders have added fuel to the fire.

Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani a prominent religious figure who was a part of the Jamiat ulema-e-Islam and had served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan earlier this month asked about the issue of Israel.

Sherani backed the idea of normalising ties.

"This is an international issue. I support the recognition of Israel. Educated Muslims need to understand that the Quran and history prove to us that the land of Israel belongs only to the Jews. King David built the house of God in Jerusalem for the Israelis and not for the Palestinians,” Sherani said.

More religious leaders have joined the chorus even as Maulana Jamal Qadri was reminded of his visit to Israel.

Qadri claimed he was sent by Nawaz Sharif "to hold talks with officials in Tel Aviv".

“The people of the then foreign ministry wanted to know whether Pakistan could develop relations with Israel or not,” Qadri said.

“I told the prime minister twice that Pakistan’s parliament should be consulted or a national dialogue be held to take a decision in this regard,” he added.

According to Qadri, Nawaz Sharif was quite keen on formalising ties with Israel.

In 2018, an Israeli jet had landed in Islamabad as reports said it was an Israeli delegation visiting Pakistan. Islamabad, however, denied the story for a week, but one year later Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi supported friendship with Israel.

“We wish all the best for Israel. We have many friends in the region and we would like you to join them," Qureshi told an Israeli news outlet while talking about the American efforts to improve the political situation in the region.

In the end, Qureshi admitted Pakistan was interested in advancing ties with Israel. In the past, Pervez Musharraf had called for better ties with Israel&nbsp;

In 2005, Musharraf had even taken a bold step by publicly shaking hands with the then Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in Istanbul.

Clearly, there is desire, what Pakistan lacks is the courage to take the plunge.

In the last two months, five countries have normalised relations with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco and Bhutan. Now, there is intense speculation whether Pakistan will be next with journalists to pundits weighing in.

In the last two months, five countries have normalised relations with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco and Bhutan. Now, there is intense speculation whether Pakistan will be next with journalists to pundits weighing in. However, Israel and Pakistan haven't said anything but there have been feelers. The idea has high profile backers as members of the Pakistani military establishment support it. Some religious leaders also like the prospect of a partnership, however, Islamabad may not have the stomach to go ahead with it. Pakistan PM Imran Khan had issued a statement in November claiming that Pakistan was under pressure from the United States to befriend Israel. However, when asked had any Arab country made a similar demand, PM Imran Khan said: "there are things we cannot say. We have good relations with them." Although the good-relations bit is debatable, Imran Khan's words triggered intense speculation as the Pakistani media began debating the subject. Some of them said it's time for a change. Experts from Pakistan ended up on Israeli channels advocating better ties between Pakistan and Israel and within a week the Pakistan government was forced to issue another denial. The Pakistan foreign ministry "categorically rejected" what it called baseless speculation and since then, Pakistan has made every effort to distance itself from the idea. In fact, the story got so big that even the Pakistani army had to issue a statement. They supported the Pakistan government's stand, however, the reports have not died down as religious leaders have added fuel to the fire. Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani a prominent religious figure who was a part of the Jamiat ulema-e-Islam and had served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan earlier this month asked about the issue of Israel. Sherani backed the idea of normalising ties. "This is an international issue. I support the recognition of Israel. Educated Muslims need to understand that the Quran and history prove to us that the land of Israel belongs only to the Jews. King David built the house of God in Jerusalem for the Israelis and not for the Palestinians,” Sherani said. More religious leaders have joined the chorus even as Maulana Jamal Qadri was reminded of his visit to Israel. Qadri claimed he was sent by Nawaz Sharif "to hold talks with officials in Tel Aviv". “The people of the then foreign ministry wanted to know whether Pakistan could develop relations with Israel or not,” Qadri said. “I told the prime minister twice that Pakistan’s parliament should be consulted or a national dialogue be held to take a decision in this regard,” he added. According to Qadri, Nawaz Sharif was quite keen on formalising ties with Israel. In 2018, an Israeli jet had landed in Islamabad as reports said it was an Israeli delegation visiting Pakistan. Islamabad, however, denied the story for a week, but one year later Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi supported friendship with Israel. “We wish all the best for Israel. We have many friends in the region and we would like you to join them," Qureshi told an Israeli news outlet while talking about the American efforts to improve the political situation in the region. In the end, Qureshi admitted Pakistan was interested in advancing ties with Israel. In the past, Pervez Musharraf had called for better ties with Israel In 2005, Musharraf had even taken a bold step by publicly shaking hands with the then Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in Istanbul. Clearly, there is desire, what Pakistan lacks is the courage to take the plunge.

Is Pakistan set to normalise ties with Israel?

Pakistan&nbsp;Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed on Wednesday announced that&nbsp;PML-N supremo and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16.

When questioned by reporters on the arrest of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former foreign minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, in connection with assets beyond means case,&nbsp;Rashid said it wasn't yet known but added: "[We] will cancel Nawaz Sharif's passport on February 16." He did not provide any details.

Nawaz Sharif has been living in London since November last&nbsp;year&nbsp;after he was permitted to leave the nation for clinical treatment.&nbsp;

Recently, the PML-N supremo has been declared proclaimed offender by the Islamabad High Court after he failed to appear before the court.

The very day, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Accountability and Interior Mirza Shahzad Akbar said that United Kingdom specialists had been approached to extradite the sentenced previous leader from their nation.&nbsp;

He said Pakistan had composed a letter to the UK to drop the visa of Nawaz which was given for clinical treatment in the wake of taking an endeavour.&nbsp;

PM Imran Khan in October said he would contact British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, if necessary, to talk about his removal and his guide Akbar composed a letter to British Home Secretary Priti Patel on October 5 asking her to oust the previous head whom he said is "liable for looting the state".&nbsp;

For Nawaz's situation, the public authority of Pakistan is planning to convince UK specialists to achieve a "constrained evacuation", at times called "regulatory expulsion" — a situation in which the Home Office upholds a person's expulsion from the UK on the off chance that they don't have leave to remain for example in the event that their application has been declined or if their leave to remain has terminated, Dawn announced.&nbsp;

While the Nawaz case is outstanding in that it includes a significant political character, it has gone to the UK Home Office when it is enduring an onslaught at home for being an asylum for outside nationals blamed for defilement.

Pakistan Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed on Wednesday announced that PML-N supremo and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16.

Pakistan Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed on Wednesday announced that PML-N supremo and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16. When questioned by reporters on the arrest of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former foreign minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, in connection with assets beyond means case, Rashid said it wasn't yet known but added: "[We] will cancel Nawaz Sharif's passport on February 16." He did not provide any details. Nawaz Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was permitted to leave the nation for clinical treatment. Recently, the PML-N supremo has been declared proclaimed offender by the Islamabad High Court after he failed to appear before the court. The very day, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Accountability and Interior Mirza Shahzad Akbar said that United Kingdom specialists had been approached to extradite the sentenced previous leader from their nation. He said Pakistan had composed a letter to the UK to drop the visa of Nawaz which was given for clinical treatment in the wake of taking an endeavour. PM Imran Khan in October said he would contact British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, if necessary, to talk about his removal and his guide Akbar composed a letter to British Home Secretary Priti Patel on October 5 asking her to oust the previous head whom he said is "liable for looting the state". For Nawaz's situation, the public authority of Pakistan is planning to convince UK specialists to achieve a "constrained evacuation", at times called "regulatory expulsion" — a situation in which the Home Office upholds a person's expulsion from the UK on the off chance that they don't have leave to remain for example in the event that their application has been declined or if their leave to remain has terminated, Dawn announced. While the Nawaz case is outstanding in that it includes a significant political character, it has gone to the UK Home Office when it is enduring an onslaught at home for being an asylum for outside nationals blamed for defilement.

Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16: Shaikh Rasheed

Pakistan's united opposition held a massive rally to mark the 13th death anniversary of the country's former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Benazir Bhutto was assasinated at a rally in Rawalpindi in 2007.

Pakistan's opposition held a massive rally for the former PM Benazir Bhutto

Mincing no words, senior Afghan leader and once a member of the legendary Northern Alliance, Ata Mohammad Noor has termed Pakistan the "birthplace of Taliban".

His comments come days after videos emerged of the Taliban's top leader Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country.

Ata, who has been in the past Governor of the northern Balkh province said, "we know that Pakistan is the birthplace of the Taliban and they support them." Adding, "We hope Pakistan will collaborate with us as it will be in the best interests of both nations."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-afghan-policemen-killed-as-kabul-hit-by-bomb-blasts-352520" hreflang="en">Two Afghan policemen killed as Kabul hit by bomb blasts</a>

Noor recalled his recent meeting with the top leadership of the country, saying he told them, "foreign insurgents will move their safe havens from Northern Waziristan (Pakistan) to the north of Afghanistan.." Highlighting that he, "warned them against late actions and told them that it’s best we take action today as we will pay a big price tomorrow" and "They kept on coming from Pakistan under the pretext of fighting foreign terrorism. They came and joined the Taliban and improved their presence from Badakhshan to Fariab and Badghis (provinces)"

Earlier this month Taliban's top leadership was in the Pakistani capital Islamabad and met Pakistan foreign minister SM Qureshi and PM Imran Khan. But what raised eyebrows of the Taliban leadership then meeting followers and going to training camps.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/seven-taliban-terrorists-killed-in-airstrike-in-afghanistans-balkh-province-352496" hreflang="en">Seven Taliban terrorists killed in airstrike in Afghanistan's Balkh province</a>

Afghan foreign ministry had taken a strong objection to it and in a strong statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan."

Noor is currently the Chief Executive of Jamiat-e Islami Afghanistan and was earlier in India as part of the engagements with New Delhi vis a vis the peace process.

Mincing no words, senior Afghan leader and once a member of the legendary Northern Alliance, Ata Mohammad Noor has termed Pakistan the "birthplace of Taliban". His comments come days after videos emerged of the Taliban's top leader Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country.

Mincing no words, senior Afghan leader and once a member of the legendary Northern Alliance, Ata Mohammad Noor has termed Pakistan the "birthplace of Taliban". His comments come days after videos emerged of the Taliban's top leader Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country. Ata, who has been in the past Governor of the northern Balkh province said, "we know that Pakistan is the birthplace of the Taliban and they support them." Adding, "We hope Pakistan will collaborate with us as it will be in the best interests of both nations." Also read| Two Afghan policemen killed as Kabul hit by bomb blasts Noor recalled his recent meeting with the top leadership of the country, saying he told them, "foreign insurgents will move their safe havens from Northern Waziristan (Pakistan) to the north of Afghanistan.." Highlighting that he, "warned them against late actions and told them that it’s best we take action today as we will pay a big price tomorrow" and "They kept on coming from Pakistan under the pretext of fighting foreign terrorism. They came and joined the Taliban and improved their presence from Badakhshan to Fariab and Badghis (provinces)" Earlier this month Taliban's top leadership was in the Pakistani capital Islamabad and met Pakistan foreign minister SM Qureshi and PM Imran Khan. But what raised eyebrows of the Taliban leadership then meeting followers and going to training camps. Also read| Seven Taliban terrorists killed in airstrike in Afghanistan's Balkh province Afghan foreign ministry had taken a strong objection to it and in a strong statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan." Noor is currently the Chief Executive of Jamiat-e Islami Afghanistan and was earlier in India as part of the engagements with New Delhi vis a vis the peace process.

Pakistan birthplace of Taliban, says top Afghan leader Ata Noor

Afghanistan has strongly objected to Pakistan providing safe haven to the Taliban with new evidence emerging on how the group has itself openly acknowledged its presence in the country

Afghan foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan."

Kabil called on the "Pakistani government not to allow its territory to be used by insurgents and elements who insist on continuing the war and bloodshed".

Earlier this month, the top Taliban delegation was in Pakistan for talks with Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood&nbsp;Qureshi and PM Imran Khan but what came as a shocker was videos of them visiting followers and extending support to them.

Terming the development regretful and concerning, the Afghan ministry pointed out the videos in which "Taliban appeared among their followers, disclosing the existence of all Taliban leaders in Pakistan and acknowledging their continued activities in Pakistani territory."

The videos, which went viral showed Taliban Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country.

The Afghan statement highlighted that Kabul "considers the closure of insurgent and terrorist sanctuaries and the cessation of their activities vital for the peaceful resolution of the Afghan crisis and ensuring regional peace and stability" and called for "continuation of sincere cooperation and genuine fight against terrorism and common threats."

It is not the first time, the Taliban has been to Pakistan on an official visit for the talks. While the Taliban has been having talks with other countries like Iran, China, a visit to Pakistan has been with much fanfare with videos been released of a warm welcome.

Afghanistan in the past has also raised concerns over Pakistan hosting insurgent and terror groups. In fact, along with Kabul, Tehran and Delhi have multiple times raised concerns over safe haven to terror groups but Islamabad has yet to take action.

Afghanistan has strongly objected to Pakistan providing safe haven to the Taliban with new evidence emerging on how the group has itself openly acknowledged its presence in the country Afghan foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan has strongly objected to Pakistan providing safe haven to the Taliban with new evidence emerging on how the group has itself openly acknowledged its presence in the country Afghan foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan." Kabil called on the "Pakistani government not to allow its territory to be used by insurgents and elements who insist on continuing the war and bloodshed". Earlier this month, the top Taliban delegation was in Pakistan for talks with Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and PM Imran Khan but what came as a shocker was videos of them visiting followers and extending support to them. Terming the development regretful and concerning, the Afghan ministry pointed out the videos in which "Taliban appeared among their followers, disclosing the existence of all Taliban leaders in Pakistan and acknowledging their continued activities in Pakistani territory." The videos, which went viral showed Taliban Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country. The Afghan statement highlighted that Kabul "considers the closure of insurgent and terrorist sanctuaries and the cessation of their activities vital for the peaceful resolution of the Afghan crisis and ensuring regional peace and stability" and called for "continuation of sincere cooperation and genuine fight against terrorism and common threats." It is not the first time, the Taliban has been to Pakistan on an official visit for the talks. While the Taliban has been having talks with other countries like Iran, China, a visit to Pakistan has been with much fanfare with videos been released of a warm welcome. Afghanistan in the past has also raised concerns over Pakistan hosting insurgent and terror groups. In fact, along with Kabul, Tehran and Delhi have multiple times raised concerns over safe haven to terror groups but Islamabad has yet to take action.

Afghanistan objects to Pakistan providing Taliban a safe haven

For China, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a geopolitical game-changer - the biggest success of Chinese expansionism, and for Pakistan, it is a life-time opportunity and its last chance for economic modernisation.

For the last 18 months, the US$60 billion infrastructure project has been both a source of interest and concern even as there has been a global debate over its potential and problems.

China appears to be backing away from its initial financial promises to Pakistan under Beijing-financed CPEC, amid rising corruption and terrorist attacks on Chinese engineers.

According to Asia Times, Pakistan Army is set to take near-total control of the CPEC in a bid to reassure Beijing that their investments will be more secure amid terrorist attacks on Chinese engineers and others facilitating the infrastructure projects.

The new bill comes at a time when reports suggest that China is slowly retreating from its promises.

Overall lending by the state-backed China Development Bank and the Export-Import Bank of China declined from a peak of USD 75 billion in 2016 to just $4 billion last year. Provisional 2020 figures show that amount shrunk to around $3 billion in 2020, according to data of Boston University researchers in the United States.

The belt-tightening is believed to be in line with Beijing's so-called "rethink strategy" for its US$1 trillion BRI, which is under broad fire for "structural weaknesses" including opacity, corruption, overlending to poor countries resulting in "debt traps" and adverse social and environmental impacts, the Boston University researchers said.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose government is criticised for being under military control, is also facing flak in his country for not prioritising and expediting big-ticket Chinese infrastructure investments, Asia Times reported.

In 2018, Imran Khan had put on hold several CPEC projects suspecting corruption by the previous government. However, two years later, several of his Cabinet members were named in big corruption scandals involving the country's power sector. About one-third of Pakistan's power companies are involved in Chinese projects under the CPEC.

The 278-page inquiry report, compiled by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and presented to Imran Khan in April, unearthed alleged irregularities worth over USD 1.8 billion in subsidies given to 16 independent power producers (IPPs) including those belonging to Imran Khan's advisors Razak Dawood and Nadeem Baber, Asia Times said.

The SCEP had also investigated the profits earned by the Chinese power companies. The report revealed that Huang Shandong Ruyi Pakistan Ltd (HSR) and Port Qasim Electric Power Co Ltd (PQEPCL) were together overpaid by 483.6 billion rupees (USD 3 billion).

Terrorists in Balochistan province, meanwhile, have intensified their attacks on CPEC projects and Chinese nationals working on them, raising the security costs and political risks of the projects. Islamabad's move to give the military more control over the scheme is a clear attempt to mollify China's rising security concerns.

(With inputs from agencies)

For China, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a geopolitical game-changer - the biggest success of Chinese expansionism, and for Pakistan, it is a life-time opportunity and its last chance for economic modernisation.

For China, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a geopolitical game-changer - the biggest success of Chinese expansionism, and for Pakistan, it is a life-time opportunity and its last chance for economic modernisation. For the last 18 months, the US$60 billion infrastructure project has been both a source of interest and concern even as there has been a global debate over its potential and problems. China appears to be backing away from its initial financial promises to Pakistan under Beijing-financed CPEC, amid rising corruption and terrorist attacks on Chinese engineers. According to Asia Times, Pakistan Army is set to take near-total control of the CPEC in a bid to reassure Beijing that their investments will be more secure amid terrorist attacks on Chinese engineers and others facilitating the infrastructure projects. The new bill comes at a time when reports suggest that China is slowly retreating from its promises. Overall lending by the state-backed China Development Bank and the Export-Import Bank of China declined from a peak of USD 75 billion in 2016 to just $4 billion last year. Provisional 2020 figures show that amount shrunk to around $3 billion in 2020, according to data of Boston University researchers in the United States. The belt-tightening is believed to be in line with Beijing's so-called "rethink strategy" for its US$1 trillion BRI, which is under broad fire for "structural weaknesses" including opacity, corruption, overlending to poor countries resulting in "debt traps" and adverse social and environmental impacts, the Boston University researchers said. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose government is criticised for being under military control, is also facing flak in his country for not prioritising and expediting big-ticket Chinese infrastructure investments, Asia Times reported. In 2018, Imran Khan had put on hold several CPEC projects suspecting corruption by the previous government. However, two years later, several of his Cabinet members were named in big corruption scandals involving the country's power sector. About one-third of Pakistan's power companies are involved in Chinese projects under the CPEC. The 278-page inquiry report, compiled by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and presented to Imran Khan in April, unearthed alleged irregularities worth over USD 1.8 billion in subsidies given to 16 independent power producers (IPPs) including those belonging to Imran Khan's advisors Razak Dawood and Nadeem Baber, Asia Times said. The SCEP had also investigated the profits earned by the Chinese power companies. The report revealed that Huang Shandong Ruyi Pakistan Ltd (HSR) and Port Qasim Electric Power Co Ltd (PQEPCL) were together overpaid by 483.6 billion rupees (USD 3 billion). Terrorists in Balochistan province, meanwhile, have intensified their attacks on CPEC projects and Chinese nationals working on them, raising the security costs and political risks of the projects. Islamabad's move to give the military more control over the scheme is a clear attempt to mollify China's rising security concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

China retreating from promises to Pakistan under economic corridor: Report

The district administration had decided not to allow the opposition leaders to hold the public procession given the rising numbers of coronavirus infections across the country.

Pakistan Democratic Movement holds massive rally in Mardan

Pakistan has secured a $1.7 billion debt relief agreement to help offset the financial headwinds sparked by the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Monday.&nbsp;

The deal, following months of negotiations with creditors, will provide a moratorium on debt payments for large swathes of the current fiscal year and help ease the cash-strapped country's massive financial obligations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The Government of Pakistan has successfully negotiated and concluded rescheduling agreements with 19 bilateral creditors, including members of the Paris club," the country's ministry of economic affairs said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry went on to describe the deal as "timely" that will help save the "lives and livelihoods of millions".

Pakistan's economy was already on life support before officials began shuttering large segments of the economy in the spring as a range of lockdown measures were rolled out to fight the spread of the coronavirus.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has repeatedly called for debt forgiveness from international donors as tax revenues cratered, inflation soared, the currency was devalued, and fiscal deficits widened.

Earlier this year the G20 and the Paris Club agreed to waive most debt payments for the world's poorest countries in 2020, as sweeping virus lockdowns upturned the global economy.

In June, Pakistan was named as one of a handful of countries to secure a moratorium on debt repayments from the Paris Club in an effort to ease the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis.

To add to the country's woes, Pakistan has also been facing growing questions about the massive amount of debt it has taken on in recent years through Chinese-financed infrastructure projects.

Beijing has been steadily pouring cash into Pakistan, investing more than $50 billion as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor that has upgraded infrastructure, power and transport links across the country.

Pakistan has secured a $1.7 billion debt relief agreement to help offset the financial headwinds sparked by the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Monday. The deal, following months of negotiations with creditors, will provide a moratorium on debt payments for large swathes of the current fiscal year and help ease the cash-strapped country's massive financial obligations.

Pakistan has secured a $1.7 billion debt relief agreement to help offset the financial headwinds sparked by the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Monday. The deal, following months of negotiations with creditors, will provide a moratorium on debt payments for large swathes of the current fiscal year and help ease the cash-strapped country's massive financial obligations. "The Government of Pakistan has successfully negotiated and concluded rescheduling agreements with 19 bilateral creditors, including members of the Paris club," the country's ministry of economic affairs said in a statement. The ministry went on to describe the deal as "timely" that will help save the "lives and livelihoods of millions". Pakistan's economy was already on life support before officials began shuttering large segments of the economy in the spring as a range of lockdown measures were rolled out to fight the spread of the coronavirus. Prime Minister Imran Khan has repeatedly called for debt forgiveness from international donors as tax revenues cratered, inflation soared, the currency was devalued, and fiscal deficits widened. Earlier this year the G20 and the Paris Club agreed to waive most debt payments for the world's poorest countries in 2020, as sweeping virus lockdowns upturned the global economy. In June, Pakistan was named as one of a handful of countries to secure a moratorium on debt repayments from the Paris Club in an effort to ease the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis. To add to the country's woes, Pakistan has also been facing growing questions about the massive amount of debt it has taken on in recent years through Chinese-financed infrastructure projects. Beijing has been steadily pouring cash into Pakistan, investing more than $50 billion as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor that has upgraded infrastructure, power and transport links across the country.

Pakistan signs $1.7 billion debt relief deal

Pakistan has started the legal process to reach an extradition treaty with Britain that would pave the way for the UK to hand over former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The development comes after a top Pakistani court earlier this month declared Sharif &nbsp;a fugitive from justice for failing to return home to face additional corruption charges.

Sharif was sentenced to seven years in prison in a separate case, for corruption and money laundering in 2018. He has been living in self-imposed exile in London.

Pakistan currently has no extradition treaty with Britain. The process hence is assumed to take years and could face stiff resistance in parliament.

Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League party is currently holding nationwide rallies demanding Prime Minister Imran Khan step down by the end of the month over alleged bad governance and failing to improve the country's economy.

Khan refuses to resign, and the opposition has vowed to walk out of parliament and provincial assemblies in 2021 to force early mid-term elections.

Pakistan's Supreme Court ousted Sharif from office over corruption allegations in 2017. Authorities in November 2019 temporarily released him on bail amid deteriorating health so that he could travel and seek medical treatment abroad.

At the time, another court permitted Sharif to leave the country for four weeks, with the option to extend the time abroad if he was not able to travel afterward. His bail later expired and authorities subsequently issued arrest warrants for him.

Also, in 2018, Sharif was sentenced to seven years in prison for a separate case of corruption and money laundering.

Pakistan has started the legal process to reach an extradition treaty with Britain that would pave the way for the UK to hand over former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan has started the legal process to reach an extradition treaty with Britain that would pave the way for the UK to hand over former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. The development comes after a top Pakistani court earlier this month declared Sharif a fugitive from justice for failing to return home to face additional corruption charges. Sharif was sentenced to seven years in prison in a separate case, for corruption and money laundering in 2018. He has been living in self-imposed exile in London. Pakistan currently has no extradition treaty with Britain. The process hence is assumed to take years and could face stiff resistance in parliament. Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League party is currently holding nationwide rallies demanding Prime Minister Imran Khan step down by the end of the month over alleged bad governance and failing to improve the country's economy. Khan refuses to resign, and the opposition has vowed to walk out of parliament and provincial assemblies in 2021 to force early mid-term elections. Pakistan's Supreme Court ousted Sharif from office over corruption allegations in 2017. Authorities in November 2019 temporarily released him on bail amid deteriorating health so that he could travel and seek medical treatment abroad. At the time, another court permitted Sharif to leave the country for four weeks, with the option to extend the time abroad if he was not able to travel afterward. His bail later expired and authorities subsequently issued arrest warrants for him. Also, in 2018, Sharif was sentenced to seven years in prison for a separate case of corruption and money laundering.

Pakistan starts legal process for ex-PM Sharif's extradition

Police arrested Ali Wazir in Islamabad on Wednesday in connection with a case registered against him and several leaders of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) in Karachi after a recent public meeting by the country`s opposition parties.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari slams Imran Khan over Pashtun leader Mohammad Ali Wazir's arrest

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari condemned the arrest of Member of National Assembly (MNA) and Pashtun leader Mohammad Ali Wazir by stating that "it has been the modus operandi of the fascist governments to implicate the elected representatives in false cases to crush the public voice".

He said the arrest of Wazir was "against the democratic traditions". "It has been the modus operandi of the fascist governments to implicate the elected representatives in false cases to crush the public voice," Geo News quoted Bilawal as saying in a statement on Thursday.

Police arrested Ali Wazir in Islamabad on Wednesday in connection with a case registered against him and several leaders of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) in Karachi after a recent public meeting by the country`s opposition parties.

Bilawal said that holding public meetings is "no crime" and did not warrant arresting an elected representative, Geo News said. He warned the Imran Khan-led government that if it "continues to muzzle freedom of expression", it will "not bring good results", Geo News reported.

He also said in the statement that the cases being registered against the elected representatives and political leaders are "baseless".The PTM leaders were accused of committing several offences, including hatching a criminal conspiracy and passing derogatory remarks against state institutions, reported Dawn.

Peshawar Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Mohammad Ali Gandapur said that Wazir was arrested at the request of the Sindh police. According to Dawn, witnesses said Wazir was arrested after he attended a ceremony held at Shuhada APS Public Library in connection with the sixth anniversary of the Army Public School attack, where 147 people were killed.

Several leaders of the PTM, who have also been charged in the case, were also present but were not arrested. Apart from Wazir, others named in the FIR include PTM chief Manzoor Pashteen and MNA Mohsin Dawar among others.

The complainant in the case claimed that when he reached the venue of the public meeting he saw the suspects addressing around 2,000 participants and trying to create hatred towards different groups and to create law and order problems, Dawn reported.

This comes as the rattled Imran Khan`s government registered a case against a central leader of the opposition`s 11-party alliance -- Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) -- for causing irreparable damage to a national asset at the rally in Lahore.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari condemned the arrest of Member of National Assembly (MNA) and Pashtun leader Mohammad Ali Wazir by stating that "it has been the modus operandi of the fascist governments to implicate the elected representatives in false cases to crush the public voice".

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari condemned the arrest of Member of National Assembly (MNA) and Pashtun leader Mohammad Ali Wazir by stating that "it has been the modus operandi of the fascist governments to implicate the elected representatives in false cases to crush the public voice". He said the arrest of Wazir was "against the democratic traditions". "It has been the modus operandi of the fascist governments to implicate the elected representatives in false cases to crush the public voice," Geo News quoted Bilawal as saying in a statement on Thursday. Police arrested Ali Wazir in Islamabad on Wednesday in connection with a case registered against him and several leaders of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) in Karachi after a recent public meeting by the country`s opposition parties. Bilawal said that holding public meetings is "no crime" and did not warrant arresting an elected representative, Geo News said. He warned the Imran Khan-led government that if it "continues to muzzle freedom of expression", it will "not bring good results", Geo News reported. He also said in the statement that the cases being registered against the elected representatives and political leaders are "baseless".The PTM leaders were accused of committing several offences, including hatching a criminal conspiracy and passing derogatory remarks against state institutions, reported Dawn. Peshawar Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Mohammad Ali Gandapur said that Wazir was arrested at the request of the Sindh police. According to Dawn, witnesses said Wazir was arrested after he attended a ceremony held at Shuhada APS Public Library in connection with the sixth anniversary of the Army Public School attack, where 147 people were killed. Several leaders of the PTM, who have also been charged in the case, were also present but were not arrested. Apart from Wazir, others named in the FIR include PTM chief Manzoor Pashteen and MNA Mohsin Dawar among others. The complainant in the case claimed that when he reached the venue of the public meeting he saw the suspects addressing around 2,000 participants and trying to create hatred towards different groups and to create law and order problems, Dawn reported. This comes as the rattled Imran Khan`s government registered a case against a central leader of the opposition`s 11-party alliance -- Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) -- for causing irreparable damage to a national asset at the rally in Lahore.

Pakistan&nbsp;has returned $1 billion to Saudi Arabia as the second installment of a $3 billion soft loan, as Islamabad reaches out to Beijing for a commercial loan to help it offset pressure to repay another $1 billion to Riyadh next month, officials said on Wednesday.

Analysts say it is unusual for Riyadh to press for the return of money. But relations have been strained lately between&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;and Saudi Arabia, historically close friends.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-imran-khan-in-spotlight-as-pakistan-passes-new-rape-law-350282" hreflang="en">PM Imran Khan in spotlight as Pakistan passes new rape law</a>

With the $1 billion flowing out,&nbsp;Pakistan, which has $13.3 billion in central bank foreign reserves, could face a balance of payments issue after clearing the next Saudi installment.

"China has come to our rescue," a foreign ministry official told Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-opposition-demands-imran-khan-to-quit-by-jan-31-or-face-intensified-movements-349825" hreflang="en">Pak opposition demands Imran Khan to quit by Jan 31 or face intensified movements</a>

A finance ministry official said&nbsp;Pakistan's central bank was already in talks with Chinese commercial banks, including the debt swap option.

"We've sent $1 billion to Saudi Arabia," he said. Another $1 billion will be repaid to Riyadh next month, he said. Islamabad had returned $1 billion in July.

A finance ministry spokesman declined to comment, saying these are "bilateral confidential issues". The central bank also refused to comment, and the foreign office didn't respond.

The People's Bank of China did not respond to a Reuters request for comment, and Riyadh didn't issue any details after a meeting between&nbsp;Pakistani army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and the Saudi ambassador in Islamabad on Tuesday.

Although a $1.2 billion surplus in its current account balance and a record $11.77 billion in remittances in the past five months have helped support the&nbsp;Pakistani economy, having to return the Saudi money is still a setback.

Saudi Arabia gave&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;a $3 billion loan and a $3.2 billion oil credit facility in late 2018. After Islamabad sought Riyadh's support over alleged human rights violations by India in the disputed territory of Kashmir, Saudi Arabia has pushed&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;to repay the loan.

Washington has expressed concerns about&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;and other developing countries getting stuck in a Chinese debt trap. It has criticised Beijing's China-Pakistan&nbsp;Economic Corridor plans, involving more than $60 billion in pledged support for infrastructure projects in&nbsp;Pakistan.

Pakistan has returned $1 billion to Saudi Arabia as the second installment of a $3 billion soft loan, as Islamabad reaches out to Beijing for a commercial loan to help it offset pressure to repay another $1 billion to Riyadh next month, officials said on Wednesday.

Pakistan has returned $1 billion to Saudi Arabia as the second installment of a $3 billion soft loan, as Islamabad reaches out to Beijing for a commercial loan to help it offset pressure to repay another $1 billion to Riyadh next month, officials said on Wednesday. Analysts say it is unusual for Riyadh to press for the return of money. But relations have been strained lately between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, historically close friends. Also read: PM Imran Khan in spotlight as Pakistan passes new rape law With the $1 billion flowing out, Pakistan, which has $13.3 billion in central bank foreign reserves, could face a balance of payments issue after clearing the next Saudi installment. "China has come to our rescue," a foreign ministry official told Reuters. Also read: Pak opposition demands Imran Khan to quit by Jan 31 or face intensified movements A finance ministry official said Pakistan's central bank was already in talks with Chinese commercial banks, including the debt swap option. "We've sent $1 billion to Saudi Arabia," he said. Another $1 billion will be repaid to Riyadh next month, he said. Islamabad had returned $1 billion in July. A finance ministry spokesman declined to comment, saying these are "bilateral confidential issues". The central bank also refused to comment, and the foreign office didn't respond. The People's Bank of China did not respond to a Reuters request for comment, and Riyadh didn't issue any details after a meeting between Pakistani army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and the Saudi ambassador in Islamabad on Tuesday. Although a $1.2 billion surplus in its current account balance and a record $11.77 billion in remittances in the past five months have helped support the Pakistani economy, having to return the Saudi money is still a setback. Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan a $3 billion loan and a $3.2 billion oil credit facility in late 2018. After Islamabad sought Riyadh's support over alleged human rights violations by India in the disputed territory of Kashmir, Saudi Arabia has pushed Pakistan to repay the loan. Washington has expressed concerns about Pakistan and other developing countries getting stuck in a Chinese debt trap. It has criticised Beijing's China-Pakistan Economic Corridor plans, involving more than $60 billion in pledged support for infrastructure projects in Pakistan.

Pakistan returns $1 billion of Saudi Arabia's soft loan, officials say

From 'go Nawaz' to 'go Niazi', Pakistan has come a long way. For months the country has been rocked by anti-government protests. On Sunday, December 13, these protests came to a temporary halt.

The Pakistan Democratic Movement held its final rally for this year in the city of Lahore. This does not mean the anti-government movement has subsided. The opposition is planning to organise what it calls another 'tsunami of protests' in Islamabad by February 2021 — bigger than the power-show they put up in Lahore yesterday.

Thousands of Pakistani citizens converged at Minar-e-Pakistan and chanted slogans against Imran Khan Niazi and demanded his resignation. There were fiery speeches by opposition leaders such as Bilawal Bhutto, the Chairman of Pakistan People's Party (PPP), Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the President Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam and Maryam Nawaz, the Vice-President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/smart-lockdown-in-13-areas-ahead-of-opposition-rally-in-pakistan-349384">Smart lockdown in 13 areas ahead of opposition rally in Pakistan</a>

Their grudges against the Pakistani government varied but their message was the same: 'Imran Khan will have to go.

"Imran khan, you will have to leave the government because you destroyed industry, you destroyed the business of the people, you destroyed the institutions, you raised the price for your class. You have to go now because you destroyed the national economy," said Nawaz.

Voicing the same opinion, Maulana Fazlur Rahman said, "We will eliminate the role of the establishment and the intelligence agency from politics and introduce the concept of independent accountability."

Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was also present virtually in the rally. Streaming in from London, he lashed out at the Pak army for its increasing involvement in the country's political matters and accused them of installing a puppet in the highest office of the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pak-oppositions-power-show-in-lahore-349801">WATCH|</a>&nbsp;

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As Lahore erupted in protest, 378 kilometres away in Pakistan's capital, Imran khan was least bothered. He spent the time releasing pictures of his engagements in Islamabad; pictures of the quality time he spent feeding his dogs at the lavish mansion he owns in Bani Gala.

Following these images were some self-righteous tweets by the PM, "Pathetic! PDM spent so much money, time, effort and displayed utter callousness by endangering people's lives during COVID-19 spike, Showing the scant regard they have for citizens' safety and well being. All this just to blackmail me into giving them an NRO to save their looted wealth.'

However, he forgot his own callousness has pushed Pakistan into food insecurity as the food prices are spiralling out of control. Inflation stands at 16.6 per cent and many Pakistani citizens are struggling for a daily meal as their safety and well-being are under threat.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province governed by Imran Khan's party PTI, at least six patients lost their life due to oxygen shortage in a government hospital in Peshawar. More than 200 patients were on a curtailed oxygen supply for hours at the same hospital.

Imran Khan also talks about blackmail when just four weeks back his government bowed down to fundamentalists and extremists and allowed them to camp right outside Pakistan's capital. Members of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, a radical political party, blackmailed the Pakistani government by blocking a major highway to Islamabad and held the entire country hostage to protest against France. 
&nbsp; 
Talking about 'looted wealth', the bus rapid transit project and the billion tree tsunami project, which were the brainchild of Imran Khan have been declared scams. There are financial irregularities worth billions of Pakistani rupees in both projects. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan's opposition may have orchestrated these protests, but the anger among the Pakistani citizens is genuine, and it is set to grow in the coming weeks.

From 'go Nawaz' to 'go Niazi', Pakistan has come a long way. For months the country has been rocked by anti-government protests. On Sunday, December 13, these protests came to a temporary halt.

From 'go Nawaz' to 'go Niazi', Pakistan has come a long way. For months the country has been rocked by anti-government protests. On Sunday, December 13, these protests came to a temporary halt. The Pakistan Democratic Movement held its final rally for this year in the city of Lahore. This does not mean the anti-government movement has subsided. The opposition is planning to organise what it calls another 'tsunami of protests' in Islamabad by February 2021 — bigger than the power-show they put up in Lahore yesterday. Thousands of Pakistani citizens converged at Minar-e-Pakistan and chanted slogans against Imran Khan Niazi and demanded his resignation. There were fiery speeches by opposition leaders such as Bilawal Bhutto, the Chairman of Pakistan People's Party (PPP), Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the President Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam and Maryam Nawaz, the Vice-President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. Also read| Smart lockdown in 13 areas ahead of opposition rally in Pakistan Their grudges against the Pakistani government varied but their message was the same: 'Imran Khan will have to go. "Imran khan, you will have to leave the government because you destroyed industry, you destroyed the business of the people, you destroyed the institutions, you raised the price for your class. You have to go now because you destroyed the national economy," said Nawaz. Voicing the same opinion, Maulana Fazlur Rahman said, "We will eliminate the role of the establishment and the intelligence agency from politics and introduce the concept of independent accountability." Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was also present virtually in the rally. Streaming in from London, he lashed out at the Pak army for its increasing involvement in the country's political matters and accused them of installing a puppet in the highest office of the country. WATCH| × As Lahore erupted in protest, 378 kilometres away in Pakistan's capital, Imran khan was least bothered. He spent the time releasing pictures of his engagements in Islamabad; pictures of the quality time he spent feeding his dogs at the lavish mansion he owns in Bani Gala. Following these images were some self-righteous tweets by the PM, "Pathetic! PDM spent so much money, time, effort and displayed utter callousness by endangering people's lives during COVID-19 spike, Showing the scant regard they have for citizens' safety and well being. All this just to blackmail me into giving them an NRO to save their looted wealth.' However, he forgot his own callousness has pushed Pakistan into food insecurity as the food prices are spiralling out of control. Inflation stands at 16.6 per cent and many Pakistani citizens are struggling for a daily meal as their safety and well-being are under threat. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province governed by Imran Khan's party PTI, at least six patients lost their life due to oxygen shortage in a government hospital in Peshawar. More than 200 patients were on a curtailed oxygen supply for hours at the same hospital. Imran Khan also talks about blackmail when just four weeks back his government bowed down to fundamentalists and extremists and allowed them to camp right outside Pakistan's capital. Members of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, a radical political party, blackmailed the Pakistani government by blocking a major highway to Islamabad and held the entire country hostage to protest against France. Talking about 'looted wealth', the bus rapid transit project and the billion tree tsunami project, which were the brainchild of Imran Khan have been declared scams. There are financial irregularities worth billions of Pakistani rupees in both projects. Pakistan's opposition may have orchestrated these protests, but the anger among the Pakistani citizens is genuine, and it is set to grow in the coming weeks.

Pakistan opposition's rise in protests signifies fall of Imran Khan

Prime Minister Imran Khan has affected a cabinet reshuffle on December 11 in an apparent bid to give a new face to the stale looking government which people have ostensibly started to reject owing to an increasing trust deficit between the rulers and the ruled.

This perhaps came in the wake of mounting pressure by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) currently spearheaded by Maulana Rehman of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) threatening to hold a massive rally in Lahore on December 13.

The proposed gathering of masses in active collaboration of opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), &nbsp;Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and other allies have obviously rattled as rallies at other places had evoked considerable response echoing the opposition demands of Imran Khan’s ouster before the end of the year.

Lahore being the citadel of PML-N with a sizeable Punjabi population carries the promise of a resounding success.

The Government is employing all its tools to foil the event citing fears of Corona epidemic and other reasons but so far organisers look completely defiant. It could also be possible that the PDM actors are weighing the government stand with abundant caution and sizing up the machinations on part of the establishment to deal with the emerging show of massive protest. Intelligence operatives are at work to win over a section of the organisers to break their rank and file to pre-empt the gathering.

Maryam Nawaz, in the meantime, has alleged overtures by a few sitting ministers of the Imran Khan cabinet to sabotage the rally. More specifically, Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Shibli Faraz has come under strong suspicion for using his good offices sending feelers to the organisers for a climb down though the Minister is on a denial mode. Whatever the outcome of the much-hyped rally will have known to everyone much before this writeup appears in the columns. Yet, it’s interesting to know what prompted Prime Minister Imran Khan to do this reshuffle.

The timing of the Cabinet reshuffle seems significant and more importantly the selection of 70-year-old Sheikh Rashid Ahmed as the new Interior Minister. It’s noteworthy that this is the fourth cabinet shakeup in less than three years since Imran Khan took the oath of office as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Knowledgeable circles are convinced that Imran inducted Rashid. bestowing him with the most powerful ministry in the government to quell the opposition movement particularly the pressure of the PDM. It is further believed that Rashid Ahmed’s multiple ‘virtues’ of being an opportunist, political survivor, wily nature, maverick, astute, and a powerful orator will help Imran to breathe easy in the remaining years of his Premiership.

Within hours of his taking over, the new Interior Minister, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed held a press conference and by his body language, ease, confidence and a look that now he is in charge and all the outstanding issues will be fixed sooner than later. At the press conference, he repeated to the media persons that he had a rich experience and this is his fifteenth ministerial assignment - a boast apparently not liked by many political colleagues who were all eying for this coveted position and now silently questioning Imran Khan’s wisdom and decision to entrust Rashid with this much sought after post. It is common knowledge that Sheikh Rashid had been a known turncoat and renegade during the regimes of Pervez Musharraf and Nawaz Sharif.

It’s interesting to recall that Sheikh Rashid was complicit in Pervez Musharraf’s term on the decision to troop in with armed intervention and aggression in 2007 in the Lal Masjid crisis. Again, he supported Musharraf in conducting military operations in FATA. His record has always been dubious and he scraped through perhaps with a survival instinct. He was the country’s Sports Minister in 1992 when Imran Khan won the World Cup in cricket. Possibly he is cashing in that association too after joining him in 2018 as soon as Imran became the PM. It’s hard to conceive that leader of a redundant political outfit called Awami Muslim League of Pakistan which he was at the helm with practically no grass root supporters could continue to call the shots. With powerful charges of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Coast Guard, Rangers, Federal Investigating Agencies etc under his belt in the present dispensation will see him exerting more flexing his muscles more demonstratively as his long term ambition of enjoying the taste of power still remains unquenched, still. That could be worrisome for Imran the cricketer caused by his erstwhile Sports Minister. And this time, Imran has to use his political and survival instincts if any to protect himself from a ‘reverse swing’ under the umpire ship of the armed forces who may not have been naive in Rashid becoming the Omnipotent Interior Minister.

The Indian government and its professional agencies in particular, now need to keep a close tab on the new interior minister of Pakistan. He was noticed spewing venom on India not very long ago, it’s Prime Minister and touching upon religion bringing in communal discourse and divisive politics. He was then a Railway Minister. Saddled with more powers to the world in the new avatar, his rhetoric could be more belligerent. Also, he tried to dabble in the politics of Kashmir. Separatist activist Yasin Malik had once alleged that Rashid was running terror camps on the PoK borders. It doesn’t end here. Sheikh Rashid had applied for a permit to visit Srinagar in the past under a cover story of visiting the graves of his forefathers. His intentions are clear.

Further, in 2012 Sheikh Rashid was stopped at the Houston airport for his nexus with Lashkar-e-Taiba and notorious terrorist Hafiz Sayeed. He was questioned, and later let off after the intervention of the Pakistani Embassy. Again in 2014, he was offloaded from a PIA flight at Toronto due to a tip-off from the Canadian authorities. Such a shady track record of an Interior Minister, who had been training his guns in India, believed to have run terrorists’ training camps, suspected to have blessed the Mumbai terror attacks and maintaining links with the ultras called for a global watch. Other changes in the recent ministerial changes may be ordinary and routine except perhaps for the new Interior Minister. And lastly, is the latest reshuffle likely to rein in the mounting pressure on the Imran led government for a time-bound exit? The answer seems to be a straight No!

(Writer is a retired IPS officer and a security analyst. He was also the National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister of Mauritius. Views expressed are personal) 
 
(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Prime Minister Imran Khan has affected a cabinet reshuffle on December 11 in an apparent bid to give a new face to the stale looking government which people have ostensibly started to reject owing to an increasing trust deficit between the rulers and the ruled.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has affected a cabinet reshuffle on December 11 in an apparent bid to give a new face to the stale looking government which people have ostensibly started to reject owing to an increasing trust deficit between the rulers and the ruled. This perhaps came in the wake of mounting pressure by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) currently spearheaded by Maulana Rehman of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) threatening to hold a massive rally in Lahore on December 13. The proposed gathering of masses in active collaboration of opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and other allies have obviously rattled as rallies at other places had evoked considerable response echoing the opposition demands of Imran Khan’s ouster before the end of the year. Lahore being the citadel of PML-N with a sizeable Punjabi population carries the promise of a resounding success. The Government is employing all its tools to foil the event citing fears of Corona epidemic and other reasons but so far organisers look completely defiant. It could also be possible that the PDM actors are weighing the government stand with abundant caution and sizing up the machinations on part of the establishment to deal with the emerging show of massive protest. Intelligence operatives are at work to win over a section of the organisers to break their rank and file to pre-empt the gathering. Maryam Nawaz, in the meantime, has alleged overtures by a few sitting ministers of the Imran Khan cabinet to sabotage the rally. More specifically, Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Shibli Faraz has come under strong suspicion for using his good offices sending feelers to the organisers for a climb down though the Minister is on a denial mode. Whatever the outcome of the much-hyped rally will have known to everyone much before this writeup appears in the columns. Yet, it’s interesting to know what prompted Prime Minister Imran Khan to do this reshuffle. The timing of the Cabinet reshuffle seems significant and more importantly the selection of 70-year-old Sheikh Rashid Ahmed as the new Interior Minister. It’s noteworthy that this is the fourth cabinet shakeup in less than three years since Imran Khan took the oath of office as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Knowledgeable circles are convinced that Imran inducted Rashid. bestowing him with the most powerful ministry in the government to quell the opposition movement particularly the pressure of the PDM. It is further believed that Rashid Ahmed’s multiple ‘virtues’ of being an opportunist, political survivor, wily nature, maverick, astute, and a powerful orator will help Imran to breathe easy in the remaining years of his Premiership. Within hours of his taking over, the new Interior Minister, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed held a press conference and by his body language, ease, confidence and a look that now he is in charge and all the outstanding issues will be fixed sooner than later. At the press conference, he repeated to the media persons that he had a rich experience and this is his fifteenth ministerial assignment - a boast apparently not liked by many political colleagues who were all eying for this coveted position and now silently questioning Imran Khan’s wisdom and decision to entrust Rashid with this much sought after post. It is common knowledge that Sheikh Rashid had been a known turncoat and renegade during the regimes of Pervez Musharraf and Nawaz Sharif. It’s interesting to recall that Sheikh Rashid was complicit in Pervez Musharraf’s term on the decision to troop in with armed intervention and aggression in 2007 in the Lal Masjid crisis. Again, he supported Musharraf in conducting military operations in FATA. His record has always been dubious and he scraped through perhaps with a survival instinct. He was the country’s Sports Minister in 1992 when Imran Khan won the World Cup in cricket. Possibly he is cashing in that association too after joining him in 2018 as soon as Imran became the PM. It’s hard to conceive that leader of a redundant political outfit called Awami Muslim League of Pakistan which he was at the helm with practically no grass root supporters could continue to call the shots. With powerful charges of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Coast Guard, Rangers, Federal Investigating Agencies etc under his belt in the present dispensation will see him exerting more flexing his muscles more demonstratively as his long term ambition of enjoying the taste of power still remains unquenched, still. That could be worrisome for Imran the cricketer caused by his erstwhile Sports Minister. And this time, Imran has to use his political and survival instincts if any to protect himself from a ‘reverse swing’ under the umpire ship of the armed forces who may not have been naive in Rashid becoming the Omnipotent Interior Minister. The Indian government and its professional agencies in particular, now need to keep a close tab on the new interior minister of Pakistan. He was noticed spewing venom on India not very long ago, it’s Prime Minister and touching upon religion bringing in communal discourse and divisive politics. He was then a Railway Minister. Saddled with more powers to the world in the new avatar, his rhetoric could be more belligerent. Also, he tried to dabble in the politics of Kashmir. Separatist activist Yasin Malik had once alleged that Rashid was running terror camps on the PoK borders. It doesn’t end here. Sheikh Rashid had applied for a permit to visit Srinagar in the past under a cover story of visiting the graves of his forefathers. His intentions are clear. Further, in 2012 Sheikh Rashid was stopped at the Houston airport for his nexus with Lashkar-e-Taiba and notorious terrorist Hafiz Sayeed. He was questioned, and later let off after the intervention of the Pakistani Embassy. Again in 2014, he was offloaded from a PIA flight at Toronto due to a tip-off from the Canadian authorities. Such a shady track record of an Interior Minister, who had been training his guns in India, believed to have run terrorists’ training camps, suspected to have blessed the Mumbai terror attacks and maintaining links with the ultras called for a global watch. Other changes in the recent ministerial changes may be ordinary and routine except perhaps for the new Interior Minister. And lastly, is the latest reshuffle likely to rein in the mounting pressure on the Imran led government for a time-bound exit? The answer seems to be a straight No! (Writer is a retired IPS officer and a security analyst. He was also the National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister of Mauritius. Views expressed are personal) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Opinion: Will a cabinet reshuffle help Imran Khan to restore order in Pakistan?

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the country`s 11-party opposition alliance, has demanded Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government to quit by January 31 or face intensified movements by opposition parties such as the long march to Islamabad.

"Today, we want to make clear to the government that it should resign by January 31," Dawn quoted Jamiat Ulema-e Islam (F) (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman as saying on Monday.Rehman was speaking to the media in Lahore alongside PML-N`s Maryam Nawaz, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and other opposition leaders.

He further said that if the government refuses to quit by that time, a meeting of the PDM`s leadership on February 1 will announce a long march towards Islamabad, the date of which will also be decided during the meeting, Dawn reported."All party workers in PDM and the people of Pakistan are appealed to start preparations for the long march from today," he added.

The next general elections in Pakistan are scheduled for 2023. During the Lahore rally, Geo News quoted Rehman as saying, "We will march towards Islamabad in late January or early February." He further said, "We will no longer allow the illegitimate government to rule. We will only rest after it is brought to an end."According to Anadolu News, tens of thousands of opposition supporters rallied in Pakistan`s northeastern city of Lahore on Sunday, despite a government ban on public gatherings due to coronavirus.

After its sixth power show against the Imran Khan-led government in Lahore, PDM called a meeting of top party leaders to discuss strategy for the next rally that will be held in Larkana.PDM has organised five similar rallies in Peshawar, Gujranwala, Karachi, Quetta and Multan since October 16.&nbsp;

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the country`s 11-party opposition alliance, has demanded Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government to quit by January 31 or face intensified movements by opposition parties such as the long march to Islamabad.

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the country`s 11-party opposition alliance, has demanded Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government to quit by January 31 or face intensified movements by opposition parties such as the long march to Islamabad. "Today, we want to make clear to the government that it should resign by January 31," Dawn quoted Jamiat Ulema-e Islam (F) (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman as saying on Monday.Rehman was speaking to the media in Lahore alongside PML-N`s Maryam Nawaz, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and other opposition leaders. He further said that if the government refuses to quit by that time, a meeting of the PDM`s leadership on February 1 will announce a long march towards Islamabad, the date of which will also be decided during the meeting, Dawn reported."All party workers in PDM and the people of Pakistan are appealed to start preparations for the long march from today," he added. The next general elections in Pakistan are scheduled for 2023. During the Lahore rally, Geo News quoted Rehman as saying, "We will march towards Islamabad in late January or early February." He further said, "We will no longer allow the illegitimate government to rule. We will only rest after it is brought to an end."According to Anadolu News, tens of thousands of opposition supporters rallied in Pakistan`s northeastern city of Lahore on Sunday, despite a government ban on public gatherings due to coronavirus. After its sixth power show against the Imran Khan-led government in Lahore, PDM called a meeting of top party leaders to discuss strategy for the next rally that will be held in Larkana.PDM has organised five similar rallies in Peshawar, Gujranwala, Karachi, Quetta and Multan since October 16.

Pakistan opposition demands Imran Khan to quit by Jan 31 or face intensified movements

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday reshuffled his Cabinet, days after a top court barred un-elected advisers and special assistants from heading the Cabinet committees.

This is the fourth Cabinet shakeup since Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) came to power in 2018. The reshuffle followed the December 7 verdict of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) barring un-elected advisers and special assistants from heading Cabinet committees.

The court ruled that special assistants and advisers to the prime minister were not members of the Cabinet and therefore, cannot be part of Cabinet proceedings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/world-bank-approves-300-milllion-loan-for-cash-strapped-pakistan-348879" hreflang="en">World Bank approves $300 milllion loan for cash-strapped Pakistan</a>

On Friday, Khan elevated Sheikh Rashid Ahmed as interior minister and appointed Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh as finance minister.

=State-run Radio Pakistan reported that Ahmed was already a part of the Cabinet working as minister for railways, while Hafeez Sheikh was serving as advisor on finance and revenue.

Hafeez Sheikh is not an elected member and he could not lead several committees. He was appointed as minister under Article 91 (9) of the Constitution and can serve as a minister for six months. He must be elected as a member of the National Assembly or Senate to continue after that. 
Brigadier (Retd) Ijaz Ahmad Shah who was serving the interior minister was appointed as minister for narcotics control, while Azam Khan Swati was appointed as minister for railways.

It is believed that Hafeez Sheikh would be made a senator in March when the election for the upper house is scheduled to be held. 
The most notable elevation in the new Cabinet is that of Ahmed, who despite failing to improve the functioning of the railways, was given the charge of the interior ministry, a key portfolio.

The IHC judgment noted that Article 93 of the Constitution allows the prime minister to appoint up to five advisors and conferring of a federal minister status on an advisor is "only for the purpose of perks and privileges" and "does not make the advisor a federal minister as such".

The court had subsequently set aside the notification of the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation, headed by Hafeez. The move was seen as a major blow to government's privatisation efforts that were being spearheaded by un-elected members of the federal Cabinet, the Dawn newspaper reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday reshuffled his Cabinet, days after a top court barred un-elected advisers and special assistants from heading the Cabinet committees.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday reshuffled his Cabinet, days after a top court barred un-elected advisers and special assistants from heading the Cabinet committees. This is the fourth Cabinet shakeup since Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) came to power in 2018. The reshuffle followed the December 7 verdict of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) barring un-elected advisers and special assistants from heading Cabinet committees. The court ruled that special assistants and advisers to the prime minister were not members of the Cabinet and therefore, cannot be part of Cabinet proceedings. Also read: World Bank approves $300 milllion loan for cash-strapped Pakistan On Friday, Khan elevated Sheikh Rashid Ahmed as interior minister and appointed Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh as finance minister. =State-run Radio Pakistan reported that Ahmed was already a part of the Cabinet working as minister for railways, while Hafeez Sheikh was serving as advisor on finance and revenue. Hafeez Sheikh is not an elected member and he could not lead several committees. He was appointed as minister under Article 91 (9) of the Constitution and can serve as a minister for six months. He must be elected as a member of the National Assembly or Senate to continue after that. Brigadier (Retd) Ijaz Ahmad Shah who was serving the interior minister was appointed as minister for narcotics control, while Azam Khan Swati was appointed as minister for railways. It is believed that Hafeez Sheikh would be made a senator in March when the election for the upper house is scheduled to be held. The most notable elevation in the new Cabinet is that of Ahmed, who despite failing to improve the functioning of the railways, was given the charge of the interior ministry, a key portfolio. The IHC judgment noted that Article 93 of the Constitution allows the prime minister to appoint up to five advisors and conferring of a federal minister status on an advisor is "only for the purpose of perks and privileges" and "does not make the advisor a federal minister as such". The court had subsequently set aside the notification of the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation, headed by Hafeez. The move was seen as a major blow to government's privatisation efforts that were being spearheaded by un-elected members of the federal Cabinet, the Dawn newspaper reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan reshuffles Cabinet on court's directive

The UAE has halted visas to Pakistani citizens. A recruitment agency in Rawalpindi has reportedly lost 3,000 openings in the UAE to India. WION's Palki tells you how Pakistanis are paying the price for Imran Khan's misadventures.

Gravitas: Thousands of Pakistanis out of a job in the gulf

'Naya Pakistan' is turning out to be a nightmare. For all his promises of a new era, Imran Khan has only taken his country backwards.

Gravitas: The creeping failures of 'Naya Pakistan'

Pakistan's united opposition is mulling mass resignation. Almost 50 percent of the elected lawmakers could quit, while Pakistan's military is set to gain sweeping powers over CPEC.

Gravitas: Almost 50% of the elected lawmakers in Pakistan could resign

The political crisis in Pakistan has deepened after an 11-party Opposition alliance announced that their lawmakers will resign en masse by the end of this month from parliament to paralyse the government and force Prime Minister Imran Khan to call early snap polls.

The decision was taken after the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), an alliance of 11 Opposition parties formed in September this year to overthrow Prime Minister Khan's government, held a marathon meeting in Islamabad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pak-opposition-decides-on-mass-resignation-pm-imran-khan-faces-heat-from-military-348414" hreflang="en">As Pak opposition decides to resign, PM Imran Khan faces heat from military</a>

PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman announced on Tuesday night that a consensus was reached on resigning from parliament. 
"All lawmakers will submit their resignation letter to their party chiefs by 31st December," he said, flanked by PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz and PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

The exact timing of stomping out of assemblies would be decided later, said Rehman.

Soon after the election in 2018, he had urged the Opposition leaders not to take oath to join parliament due to alleged rigging. But his idea was overruled by others, chiefly by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the The Pakistani Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

It is believed that en masse resignation is the only way to bring the government on its knees and force it to call early elections.

The PPP government in the Sindh province was considered as a hurdle as it was not sure if that it would sacrifice its government to help the Opposition alliance.

The leaders also agreed to go ahead with a rally in Lahore on December 13 as a show of power to the government. It will be the sixth rally after similar gatherings held in Gujranwala, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, and Multan.

The Opposition parties succeeded in attracting a huge number of people despite hurdles created by the government.

Prime Minister Imran Khan rejected the demand to step down or call early elections and consistently advocated that the Opposition was protesting to put pressure to stop probes in corruption cases against their leaders.

Speaking to a group of senior journalists and columnists on Tuesday, he said that "by-election will be held on the vacant seats" and no concession would be given to the protesting parties.

However, experts and Opposition leaders argue that when hundreds of lawmakers resign from the national and provincial assemblies, it would be virtually impossible to avoid general elections.

"The government will be forced to call general elections, otherwise the legitimacy of the entire process will be questionable," said PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal, warning the more protests would follow in case elections were not held.

The Opposition alliance has alleged that Khan was supported in elections by the 'establishment' and also failed to run the country and address chronic issues.

PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif has directly named Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI head Lt Gen Faiz Hameed for meddling in political affairs

The political crisis in Pakistan has deepened after an 11-party Opposition alliance announced that their lawmakers will resign en masse by the end of this month from parliament to paralyse the government and force Prime Minister Imran Khan to call early snap polls.

The political crisis in Pakistan has deepened after an 11-party Opposition alliance announced that their lawmakers will resign en masse by the end of this month from parliament to paralyse the government and force Prime Minister Imran Khan to call early snap polls. The decision was taken after the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), an alliance of 11 Opposition parties formed in September this year to overthrow Prime Minister Khan's government, held a marathon meeting in Islamabad. Also read: As Pak opposition decides to resign, PM Imran Khan faces heat from military PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman announced on Tuesday night that a consensus was reached on resigning from parliament. "All lawmakers will submit their resignation letter to their party chiefs by 31st December," he said, flanked by PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz and PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. The exact timing of stomping out of assemblies would be decided later, said Rehman. Soon after the election in 2018, he had urged the Opposition leaders not to take oath to join parliament due to alleged rigging. But his idea was overruled by others, chiefly by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the The Pakistani Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). It is believed that en masse resignation is the only way to bring the government on its knees and force it to call early elections. The PPP government in the Sindh province was considered as a hurdle as it was not sure if that it would sacrifice its government to help the Opposition alliance. The leaders also agreed to go ahead with a rally in Lahore on December 13 as a show of power to the government. It will be the sixth rally after similar gatherings held in Gujranwala, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, and Multan. The Opposition parties succeeded in attracting a huge number of people despite hurdles created by the government. Prime Minister Imran Khan rejected the demand to step down or call early elections and consistently advocated that the Opposition was protesting to put pressure to stop probes in corruption cases against their leaders. Speaking to a group of senior journalists and columnists on Tuesday, he said that "by-election will be held on the vacant seats" and no concession would be given to the protesting parties. However, experts and Opposition leaders argue that when hundreds of lawmakers resign from the national and provincial assemblies, it would be virtually impossible to avoid general elections. "The government will be forced to call general elections, otherwise the legitimacy of the entire process will be questionable," said PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal, warning the more protests would follow in case elections were not held. The Opposition alliance has alleged that Khan was supported in elections by the 'establishment' and also failed to run the country and address chronic issues. PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif has directly named Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI head Lt Gen Faiz Hameed for meddling in political affairs

Pak lawmakers to resign en masse to paralyse government: PDM chief Rehman

Pakistan citizen's misery under the Imran Khan government is evident, not just for those who live in the country but also for those working overseas.

PM Imran Khan's Islamic powerplay has hurt Pakistanis outside, especially in the Gulf.

Imran Khan had joined the Islamic alliance with Malaysia and Turkey falling out of favour with the Gulf powers..

As a cricketer, Imran Khan was Pakistan's biggest global ambassador, however, as prime minister, he may be proving to be the biggest embarrassment stumbling his way from one diplomatic disaster to the next while feeling the brunt are Pakistanis - both at home and abroad.

Imran Khan had gone against Gulf powers and joined hands with Turkey and Malaysia. Now, overseas Pakistanis are paying the price for it. Last month, the UAE had stopped issuing visas to 13 Muslim countries which includes Pakistan.

For the Pakistani labourers, it was a punch in the gut. They lost employment and the Pakistan government also suffered some losses since remittances were already falling. In July, Pakistan expected a drop of 10 per cent in remittances from the UAE. Now, the drop will be much higher and to rub salt on the wound, Indians are benefiting from the ban on Pakistanis.

Reports say a recruitment agency in Rawalpindi alone lost 3,000 openings to India - its a triple whammy for Imran Khan. While the ban is temporary, Pakistan is out of the good graces of Gulf states. The reason is Imran Khan's call to join Turkey and Malaysia - the new Muslim axis that challenges traditional Muslim powers Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

After repeated warnings, the Gulf powers dumped Pakistan and by April more than 21,000 Pakistani expats in Gulf states were laid off. In November, it grew to 50,000 as they returned to Pakistan on paid or unpaid leaves with their jobs are on the line.

Pakistan has clearly lost the plot and it may be too late to salvage the relationship. Gulf countries are moving closer to new allies with the UAE and Bahrain have recently established diplomatic ties with Israel, Indian external affairs minister S. Jaishankar recently travelled to these countries signalling a visible realignment.

Later this month, Jaishankar will travel to Qatar and Kuwait while his deputy will pay a visit to Oman. The Indian Army chief MM Naravane kicked off his visit to Saudi Arabia and the UAE today.

As India's ties with the Gulf deepen, Pakistan is being dumped. The Pakistanis have lost jobs and they only have Imran Khan to blame.

Pakistan citizen's misery under the Imran Khan government is evident, not just for those who live in the country but also for those working overseas. PM Imran Khan's Islamic powerplay has hurt Pakistanis outside, especially in the Gulf.

Pakistan citizen's misery under the Imran Khan government is evident, not just for those who live in the country but also for those working overseas. PM Imran Khan's Islamic powerplay has hurt Pakistanis outside, especially in the Gulf. Imran Khan had joined the Islamic alliance with Malaysia and Turkey falling out of favour with the Gulf powers.. As a cricketer, Imran Khan was Pakistan's biggest global ambassador, however, as prime minister, he may be proving to be the biggest embarrassment stumbling his way from one diplomatic disaster to the next while feeling the brunt are Pakistanis - both at home and abroad. Imran Khan had gone against Gulf powers and joined hands with Turkey and Malaysia. Now, overseas Pakistanis are paying the price for it. Last month, the UAE had stopped issuing visas to 13 Muslim countries which includes Pakistan. For the Pakistani labourers, it was a punch in the gut. They lost employment and the Pakistan government also suffered some losses since remittances were already falling. In July, Pakistan expected a drop of 10 per cent in remittances from the UAE. Now, the drop will be much higher and to rub salt on the wound, Indians are benefiting from the ban on Pakistanis. Reports say a recruitment agency in Rawalpindi alone lost 3,000 openings to India - its a triple whammy for Imran Khan. While the ban is temporary, Pakistan is out of the good graces of Gulf states. The reason is Imran Khan's call to join Turkey and Malaysia - the new Muslim axis that challenges traditional Muslim powers Saudi Arabia and the UAE. After repeated warnings, the Gulf powers dumped Pakistan and by April more than 21,000 Pakistani expats in Gulf states were laid off. In November, it grew to 50,000 as they returned to Pakistan on paid or unpaid leaves with their jobs are on the line. Pakistan has clearly lost the plot and it may be too late to salvage the relationship. Gulf countries are moving closer to new allies with the UAE and Bahrain have recently established diplomatic ties with Israel, Indian external affairs minister S. Jaishankar recently travelled to these countries signalling a visible realignment. Later this month, Jaishankar will travel to Qatar and Kuwait while his deputy will pay a visit to Oman. The Indian Army chief MM Naravane kicked off his visit to Saudi Arabia and the UAE today. As India's ties with the Gulf deepen, Pakistan is being dumped. The Pakistanis have lost jobs and they only have Imran Khan to blame.

PM Imran Khan's Islamic alliance with Malaysia, Turkey hurts Pakistanis in the Gulf

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