Obama’s New Years gift: Signs bill freezing aid to Pakistan
HONOLULU: President Barack Obama signed a sweeping US defense funding bill on Saturday which includes new sanctions on financial institutions dealing with Iran’s central bank, and curtailing up to $850 million in aid to Pakistan. The bill was signed despite concerns about sections that expand the US military’s authority over terrorism suspects and limit his powers in foreign affairs.
The massive defense bill Congress passed on earlier in December freezes 60 per cent of the $850 million aid, or $510 million, until the US defense secretary provides lawmakers with assurances that Pakistan is working to counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs). US lawmakers say that many Afghan bombs that kill US troops are made with fertiliser smuggled by militants across the border from Pakistan into Afghanistan.
“The fact that I support this bill as a whole does not mean I agree with everything in it,” Obama said in a statement, citing limits on transferring detainees from the US base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and requirements he notify Congress before sharing some defense missile information with Russia as problematic.
The bill, approved by Congress last week after its language was revised, aims with its Iran sanctions to reduce Tehran’s oil revenues but gives the US president powers to waive penalties as required. Senior US officials said Washington was engaging with its foreign partners to ensure the sanctions can work without harming global energy markets, and stressed the US strategy for engaging with Iran was unchanged by the bill.
The bill may also prove problematic for Pakistan in ways other than providing assurances of concrete steps to counter the manufacture of IEDs. The sanctions placed on dealing with Iran’s central banks may weigh on Pakistan’s plans for the Iran-Pakistan pipeline which aims to provide gas to Pakistan.
Pakistan needs the gas supplies from Iran to augment its own gas reserves which have been shrinking fast, leading to widespread gas shortages affecting its industry and daily life.
The massive defense bill Congress passed on earlier in December freezes 60 per cent of the $850 million aid, or $510 million, until the US defense secretary provides lawmakers with assurances that Pakistan is working to counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs). US lawmakers say that many Afghan bombs that kill US troops are made with fertiliser smuggled by militants across the border from Pakistan into Afghanistan.
“The fact that I support this bill as a whole does not mean I agree with everything in it,” Obama said in a statement, citing limits on transferring detainees from the US base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and requirements he notify Congress before sharing some defense missile information with Russia as problematic.
The bill, approved by Congress last week after its language was revised, aims with its Iran sanctions to reduce Tehran’s oil revenues but gives the US president powers to waive penalties as required. Senior US officials said Washington was engaging with its foreign partners to ensure the sanctions can work without harming global energy markets, and stressed the US strategy for engaging with Iran was unchanged by the bill.
The bill may also prove problematic for Pakistan in ways other than providing assurances of concrete steps to counter the manufacture of IEDs. The sanctions placed on dealing with Iran’s central banks may weigh on Pakistan’s plans for the Iran-Pakistan pipeline which aims to provide gas to Pakistan.
Pakistan needs the gas supplies from Iran to augment its own gas reserves which have been shrinking fast, leading to widespread gas shortages affecting its industry and daily life.
Public’s interest in politics grows as PTI gets active
LAHORE: The growing popularity of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) can be judged by the fact that the city’s bus stands, markets and shops are abuzz with discussions and speculations about the next political setup, which is a welcoming sign given that people have seldom been enthusiastic about politics.
Before the PTI became politically active, existing political parties were busy securing their contacts in the establishment for the next general elections. However, the scenario has changed dramatically with the unprecedented rise of the PTI, and the induction of established politicians into Imran Khan’s party. Though there are reservations about some of the new PTI members, given their long history in previous governments, people are still optimistic about prospect of the next government.
It is no secret that the country’s two major political parties are weary of the PTI’s increasing popularity and grass roots support. This is the first time since supporting Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, that the educated classes have attended political gatherings in such large numbers. Although all the political parties claim to have the “full support” of the public, their gatherings show that the reality is otherwise.
Imran Khan has proven that he has a certain charisma, which has encouraged students, women, schoolteachers, celebrities and people from other walks of life to participate in his rallies in Lahore and Karachi. These people were never forced to attend the conventions, a charge that is frequently directed at other parties, and instead did so because they felt that Imran could help eradicate the plague of corruption and bring lasting change.
His rallies portray the picture of a political gathering in which people from all walks of life are supposed to participate, not those who merely chant slogans in favour of their leaders.
It is intriguing to see political heavyweights trying to muster support from their former supporters, as their future outside the government looks bleak, since questions about their wealth and offshore accounts cannot be dodged forever.
“I sincerely hope that the coming elections are not rigged because that is the only way to defeat Imran Khan since people in the country and abroad are fully supporting him,” a fashion model that attended the PTI convention in Lahore told Daily Times.
“I postponed a photo shoot to attend Imran Khan’s Jalsa because I believe he could make a positive difference for our country, which will be home to my children when I am gone,” she added.
It will be a huge challenge for the cricketer-turned-politician to keep up with the hopes of the public, who consider him the best candidate for the future of the country. If the mainstream political parties want to win the 2013 elections, they will need to revamp their style and focus on engaging with more extensively with the public.
Microsoft’s youngest Certified Professional shows signs of life
LAHORE:
Arifa Karim Randhawa, the child tech prodigy in critical condition, has shown some sign of life after she moved some of her fingers and her brain showed some activity, her Father Lt Col (Retd) Amjad Karim Randhawa told The Express Tribune on Friday.
Karim, who is still on life support, is still in a critical state and is being tended to the doctors, who had earlier lost hope of the child’s recovery.
Her father said that the family has received a flood of calls from all over the world inquiring after her health and praying for her recovery.
On December 22, Aarifa was admitted to Lahore’s CMH hospital after suffering cardiac arrest. On Thursday, doctors said there was no hope for her survival, and that her life support could be switched off ‘at any time’.
However, after this latest development, doctors and experts at Lahore’s Mayo hospital are working to save Arifa.
When Aarifa, now 16, was given the title of a Microsoft professional as a young child, she visited the company’s headquarters in the US. When she met Bill Gates himself, she had two questions: Why weren’t children allowed to work for Microsoft, and why such few women worked for the organisation.
Karim, who is still on life support, is still in a critical state and is being tended to the doctors, who had earlier lost hope of the child’s recovery.
Her father said that the family has received a flood of calls from all over the world inquiring after her health and praying for her recovery.
On December 22, Aarifa was admitted to Lahore’s CMH hospital after suffering cardiac arrest. On Thursday, doctors said there was no hope for her survival, and that her life support could be switched off ‘at any time’.
However, after this latest development, doctors and experts at Lahore’s Mayo hospital are working to save Arifa.
When Aarifa, now 16, was given the title of a Microsoft professional as a young child, she visited the company’s headquarters in the US. When she met Bill Gates himself, she had two questions: Why weren’t children allowed to work for Microsoft, and why such few women worked for the organisation.
Pakistan Rangers seize US military equipment
KARACHI: Pakistan Rangers have seized sensitive military equipment belonging to the US and Nato on security grounds, Express News reported on Friday.
According to the Ranger officials, the equipment will remain under their control until further orders are received from the government.
The rangers, for the purpose of storing the military supplies, have rented a yard namely Mega6 at the Port Qasim.
So far, 250 containers have been offloaded at the Mega6 yard.
It was reported earlier that the US has decided to export all its cargo, including military hardware and arms, out of Pakistan.
Sources told Express News that the break in supplies has frustrated US authorities to the point where they are now weighing various options to move around the cargo stranded at various locations in Pakistan.
According to sources, US cargo, stranded in Pakistan, is worth millions of dollars and US authorities have serious concerns over the safety of the cargo as it includes Humvee vehicles, dumpers, anti-aircraft guns, special carriers of anti-aircraft guns, vehicles specially built to jam communications, cranes and sophisticated weapons.
According to the Ranger officials, the equipment will remain under their control until further orders are received from the government.
The rangers, for the purpose of storing the military supplies, have rented a yard namely Mega6 at the Port Qasim.
So far, 250 containers have been offloaded at the Mega6 yard.
It was reported earlier that the US has decided to export all its cargo, including military hardware and arms, out of Pakistan.
Sources told Express News that the break in supplies has frustrated US authorities to the point where they are now weighing various options to move around the cargo stranded at various locations in Pakistan.
According to sources, US cargo, stranded in Pakistan, is worth millions of dollars and US authorities have serious concerns over the safety of the cargo as it includes Humvee vehicles, dumpers, anti-aircraft guns, special carriers of anti-aircraft guns, vehicles specially built to jam communications, cranes and sophisticated weapons.
Pakistan court orders 'memogate' inquiry
Pakistan's Supreme Court has set up an inquiry into a controversial unsigned memo that asked for US help in curbing the powers of the military.
The court said a panel of four high court judges would conclude its findings within a month.
The "memogate" scandal concerns a note allegedly sent from Pakistan's political leadership to US Adm Mike Mullen, via a former ambassador.
President Asif Ali Zardari's aides deny any links with the document.
Pakistan's civilian leaders were allegedly worried that the army was about to launch a coup after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May.
They say any court inquiry into the affair would be unnecessary and politically motivated. The government argues that a parliamentary committee is already looking into memogate.
Correspondents say Friday's ruling will put additional pressure on the government and could even lead to President Zardari's fall from power if a link is established.
"I think that this is one of the darkest days in history for the judiciary," said a lawyer for Pakistan's former ambassador to the US, Husain Haqqani - who denies any role in the affair.
"I said in the Supreme Court too that this is a very disappointing judgement. This is a judgement that places national security above fundamental rights," lawyer Asma Jahangir said.
Earlier this week President Zardari accused Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry of failing to investigate the murder of his wife, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
He was addressing party supporters on the anniversary of Ms Bhutto's killing.
He pointed to a hearing the Supreme Court opened over the leaked memo as proof the court has been inconsistent.
The court said a panel of four high court judges would conclude its findings within a month.
The "memogate" scandal concerns a note allegedly sent from Pakistan's political leadership to US Adm Mike Mullen, via a former ambassador.
President Asif Ali Zardari's aides deny any links with the document.
Pakistan's civilian leaders were allegedly worried that the army was about to launch a coup after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May.
They say any court inquiry into the affair would be unnecessary and politically motivated. The government argues that a parliamentary committee is already looking into memogate.
Correspondents say Friday's ruling will put additional pressure on the government and could even lead to President Zardari's fall from power if a link is established.
"I think that this is one of the darkest days in history for the judiciary," said a lawyer for Pakistan's former ambassador to the US, Husain Haqqani - who denies any role in the affair.
"I said in the Supreme Court too that this is a very disappointing judgement. This is a judgement that places national security above fundamental rights," lawyer Asma Jahangir said.
Earlier this week President Zardari accused Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry of failing to investigate the murder of his wife, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
He was addressing party supporters on the anniversary of Ms Bhutto's killing.
He pointed to a hearing the Supreme Court opened over the leaked memo as proof the court has been inconsistent.
Pakistan journalists 'threatened by security' personnel
Two senior Pakistani journalists say they have received threatening messages after raising questions over the military's role in their respective television shows.
Both suspect the threats have emanated from Pakistan's powerful security establishment and its premier intelligence service, the ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence).
The ISI was widely accused of killing a local journalist, Saleem Shehzad, in May 2011.
It vehemently denied the charge.
Journalists' organisations say at least 29 journalists have been killed in Pakistan during the last five years, many of them specifically for their work.Messages
A senior journalist, Najam Sethi, disclosed at a television talk show on Wednesday night that he had received "serious" threats from "both non-state and state actors".
He said if these threats did not cease, he would be "compelled to take names of the organisations and officials" who were behind them.
Without naming any intelligence service, he said its operatives were "in touch with and threatening several other senior journalists".
"If anything bad happens to me or my dear ones, the security establishment will be responsible” Hamid Mir Pakistani journalist
"We did not speak about this before because we did not want to destabilise things, but the time has come when all of them should come forward and speak about it publicly," he said, speaking in Urdu.
"This is not the age when the intelligence operatives should be threatening their own civilians. A state within the state is not acceptable," he said.
Mr Sethi is the main analyst at a late night news show on Pakistan's Geo TV in which he has been offering comments critical of the military's role.
His disclosure comes a week after another senior journalist, Hamid Mir, sent out an email to journalists' bodies around the world claiming that he had been receiving threatening messages from what he called "the security establishment".
Mr Mir is the host of Geo TV's popular talk show, Capital Talk.
Mr Mir wrote in his email that these threats have emerged following two talk shows he did which contained critical comments about the military.
"I am sure that the security establishment of Pakistan is once again angry with all those who raise questions about the political role of the army," he wrote.
He added: "If anything bad happens to me or my dear ones, the security establishment will be responsible."
A commission constituted to investigate the May 2011 killing of journalist Saleem Shehzad is investigating the role of the ISI, among others, as a possible suspect in the case.
Journalists working on security-related issues say they have always been threatened and intimidated by the intelligence agencies and have often been forced to under-report "sensitive" issues.
But in recent months, they have increasingly spoken out in public on the issue.
The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) released the text of Mr Mir's email last week, which contains the text of an SMS message he had received.
According to Mr Mir, the SMS read, "I have not seen a real bastard than you. I wish somebody comes and strips you naked. I hope some army man has not done real dirty with your dear ones."
Both suspect the threats have emanated from Pakistan's powerful security establishment and its premier intelligence service, the ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence).
The ISI was widely accused of killing a local journalist, Saleem Shehzad, in May 2011.
It vehemently denied the charge.
Journalists' organisations say at least 29 journalists have been killed in Pakistan during the last five years, many of them specifically for their work.Messages
A senior journalist, Najam Sethi, disclosed at a television talk show on Wednesday night that he had received "serious" threats from "both non-state and state actors".
He said if these threats did not cease, he would be "compelled to take names of the organisations and officials" who were behind them.
Without naming any intelligence service, he said its operatives were "in touch with and threatening several other senior journalists".
"If anything bad happens to me or my dear ones, the security establishment will be responsible” Hamid Mir Pakistani journalist
"We did not speak about this before because we did not want to destabilise things, but the time has come when all of them should come forward and speak about it publicly," he said, speaking in Urdu.
"This is not the age when the intelligence operatives should be threatening their own civilians. A state within the state is not acceptable," he said.
Mr Sethi is the main analyst at a late night news show on Pakistan's Geo TV in which he has been offering comments critical of the military's role.
His disclosure comes a week after another senior journalist, Hamid Mir, sent out an email to journalists' bodies around the world claiming that he had been receiving threatening messages from what he called "the security establishment".
Mr Mir is the host of Geo TV's popular talk show, Capital Talk.
Mr Mir wrote in his email that these threats have emerged following two talk shows he did which contained critical comments about the military.
"I am sure that the security establishment of Pakistan is once again angry with all those who raise questions about the political role of the army," he wrote.
He added: "If anything bad happens to me or my dear ones, the security establishment will be responsible."
A commission constituted to investigate the May 2011 killing of journalist Saleem Shehzad is investigating the role of the ISI, among others, as a possible suspect in the case.
Journalists working on security-related issues say they have always been threatened and intimidated by the intelligence agencies and have often been forced to under-report "sensitive" issues.
But in recent months, they have increasingly spoken out in public on the issue.
The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) released the text of Mr Mir's email last week, which contains the text of an SMS message he had received.
According to Mr Mir, the SMS read, "I have not seen a real bastard than you. I wish somebody comes and strips you naked. I hope some army man has not done real dirty with your dear ones."
Imran scrutinises new entrants to PTI: Javed Hashmi
MULTAN: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan has devised a proper system to scrutinise everyone who joins his party, new entrant and political heavyweight Javed Hashmi has said.
Speaking at a media briefing that he arranged in Multan to explain his reasons for joining the PTI, the former PML-N stalwart said that he was in politics not to force its implementation on people but to serve them.
Defending Imran’s strategy of welcoming senior political personalities in his recently-popular party, Hashmi said that if PML-N can accept all PML-Q members except the Chaudhry brothers then why can’t Imran allow people from other parties to join his PTI.
Hashmi, whose former party has blamed him of ‘selling’ himself to Imran, said that it was time that politicians stopped the blame game. “We have to end this blame game because it will never promote democracy in Pakistan. Our basic aim should be cleansing of politics in Pakistan.”
He said that the PML-N and its leadership still hold a special place in his heart. “I will never forget Nawaz Sharif’s righteous stand for democracy in the country.”
Talking about the 2013 elections, he said that PTI was fully prepared and stood a great chance at the next polls.
Responding to a question about Pakistani neuroscientist Dr Aafia Siddiqui who is jailed in the US, he said that America ignores all pleas. “They do whatever they want and pick up anybody from anywhere.”
“I know that in many issues, the government’s hands are tied and it is helpless.”But Aimal Kasi [Pakistani who shot CIA officials in the US in 1993] was hanged during the PML-N’s government and we not even informed,” he said.
Speaking at a media briefing that he arranged in Multan to explain his reasons for joining the PTI, the former PML-N stalwart said that he was in politics not to force its implementation on people but to serve them.
Defending Imran’s strategy of welcoming senior political personalities in his recently-popular party, Hashmi said that if PML-N can accept all PML-Q members except the Chaudhry brothers then why can’t Imran allow people from other parties to join his PTI.
Hashmi, whose former party has blamed him of ‘selling’ himself to Imran, said that it was time that politicians stopped the blame game. “We have to end this blame game because it will never promote democracy in Pakistan. Our basic aim should be cleansing of politics in Pakistan.”
He said that the PML-N and its leadership still hold a special place in his heart. “I will never forget Nawaz Sharif’s righteous stand for democracy in the country.”
Talking about the 2013 elections, he said that PTI was fully prepared and stood a great chance at the next polls.
Responding to a question about Pakistani neuroscientist Dr Aafia Siddiqui who is jailed in the US, he said that America ignores all pleas. “They do whatever they want and pick up anybody from anywhere.”
“I know that in many issues, the government’s hands are tied and it is helpless.”But Aimal Kasi [Pakistani who shot CIA officials in the US in 1993] was hanged during the PML-N’s government and we not even informed,” he said.
World Bank gives $5.5bn aid to Pakistan to boost growth
The World Bank has said it will give $5.5bn (£3.5bn) in development aid to Pakistan to support poverty reduction and economic growth.
The funding will provide support to critical social services such as education and health.
It will also support infrastructure programmes aimed at creating jobs and restoring long-term growth.
Floods earlier this year left some 200,000 people homeless and slowed Pakistan's economy.
"We will continue our strong support to Pakistan, while keeping a keen eye on implementation to ensure that these efforts translate into real results on the ground," Rachid Benmessaoud, the World Bank's Pakistan director was quoted as saying by the AFP news agency.
The funding will provide support to critical social services such as education and health.
It will also support infrastructure programmes aimed at creating jobs and restoring long-term growth.
Floods earlier this year left some 200,000 people homeless and slowed Pakistan's economy.
"We will continue our strong support to Pakistan, while keeping a keen eye on implementation to ensure that these efforts translate into real results on the ground," Rachid Benmessaoud, the World Bank's Pakistan director was quoted as saying by the AFP news agency.
Slowing growth
"We are committed to helping Pakistan realize its potential especially in key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy and agribusiness” Mouayed MahloufInternational Finance Corporation
Flooding in Pakistan affected almost one-fifth of the country's agricultural area, causing extensive damage to crops and food production.
At the same time, industrial production in the country was also hurt due to supply chain disruption and power outages.
The State Bank of Pakistan has warned the economy is likely to post slower-than-expected growth of between 3%-4% in the current financial year.
Its views were echoed by the World Bank, which said that the country's recovery from the floods remains slow.
The World Bank's $5.5bn funding will be comprised of $4bn in development assistance and $1.5bn from the bank's International Finance Corporation (IFC), which helps private sector firms.
"We are committed to helping Pakistan realize its potential especially in key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy and agribusiness," said IFC Middle East director Mouayed Mahlouf.
"We are committed to helping Pakistan realize its potential especially in key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy and agribusiness” Mouayed MahloufInternational Finance Corporation
Flooding in Pakistan affected almost one-fifth of the country's agricultural area, causing extensive damage to crops and food production.
At the same time, industrial production in the country was also hurt due to supply chain disruption and power outages.
The State Bank of Pakistan has warned the economy is likely to post slower-than-expected growth of between 3%-4% in the current financial year.
Its views were echoed by the World Bank, which said that the country's recovery from the floods remains slow.
The World Bank's $5.5bn funding will be comprised of $4bn in development assistance and $1.5bn from the bank's International Finance Corporation (IFC), which helps private sector firms.
"We are committed to helping Pakistan realize its potential especially in key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy and agribusiness," said IFC Middle East director Mouayed Mahlouf.
Pakistan: PM Gilani denies he is to sack army chief
Pakistani PM Yousuf Raza Gilani has dismissed reports he is planning to sack army and intelligence chiefs.
This follows latest rumours in the Pakistan media about a rift between politicians and the military.
Earlier, the army chief denied reports of plans to oust the civilian government - after the PM spoke of a conspiracy, referring to the army.
Tensions are high in the wake of a leaked memo that allegedly asked for US help to prevent a military coup.
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari - who recently spent nearly two weeks in Dubai for medical treatment - denies any role in the memo.
This follows latest rumours in the Pakistan media about a rift between politicians and the military.
Earlier, the army chief denied reports of plans to oust the civilian government - after the PM spoke of a conspiracy, referring to the army.
Tensions are high in the wake of a leaked memo that allegedly asked for US help to prevent a military coup.
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari - who recently spent nearly two weeks in Dubai for medical treatment - denies any role in the memo.
Fools' Talk
"As far as the rumours that the government wants to remove the DG-ISI [Director-General of Inter-Services Intelligence Lt-Gen Ahmad Shuja Pasha] and [army chief] General Kayani, this impression is simply a fools' talk,"Mr Gilani told a news conference.
"This utterly wrong impression is being created by some opportunists."
Mr Gilani said Gen Kayani was "pro-democracy" and that he was happy with his work. He also said that, unsolicited, he had extended the tenure of the two officers last year.
In a statement last Friday, Gen Kayani "strongly dispelled the speculation of any military takeover".
The rumours were "misleading and being used as a bogey to divert the focus from the real issues".
The general, who was addressing troops near the Afghan border, "reiterated that (the) Pakistan Army has and will continue to support the democratic process in the country", the statement went on.
Tensions are high between the civilian government, which has ruled since elections in February 2008, and the military and intelligence services, after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May. The army was not told about the raid in advance.
In his comments last week, Mr Gilani voiced unprecedented criticism of the military, saying: "There can't be a state within the state. They have to be answerable to this parliament."
However he did not name any of the alleged conspirators.
The latest developments come amid a scandal dubbed "memogate" that has forced the resignation of the Pakistani ambassador to the US and piled pressure on President Zardari and the civilian authorities.
Some observers have speculated that the "memogate" affair is a conspiracy by the army to embarrass the government.
The military is the strongest institution in Pakistan and has staged three coups.
"As far as the rumours that the government wants to remove the DG-ISI [Director-General of Inter-Services Intelligence Lt-Gen Ahmad Shuja Pasha] and [army chief] General Kayani, this impression is simply a fools' talk,"Mr Gilani told a news conference.
"This utterly wrong impression is being created by some opportunists."
Mr Gilani said Gen Kayani was "pro-democracy" and that he was happy with his work. He also said that, unsolicited, he had extended the tenure of the two officers last year.
In a statement last Friday, Gen Kayani "strongly dispelled the speculation of any military takeover".
The rumours were "misleading and being used as a bogey to divert the focus from the real issues".
The general, who was addressing troops near the Afghan border, "reiterated that (the) Pakistan Army has and will continue to support the democratic process in the country", the statement went on.
Tensions are high between the civilian government, which has ruled since elections in February 2008, and the military and intelligence services, after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May. The army was not told about the raid in advance.
In his comments last week, Mr Gilani voiced unprecedented criticism of the military, saying: "There can't be a state within the state. They have to be answerable to this parliament."
However he did not name any of the alleged conspirators.
The latest developments come amid a scandal dubbed "memogate" that has forced the resignation of the Pakistani ambassador to the US and piled pressure on President Zardari and the civilian authorities.
Some observers have speculated that the "memogate" affair is a conspiracy by the army to embarrass the government.
The military is the strongest institution in Pakistan and has staged three coups.
Pakistan Imran Khan rally draws tens of thousands
Tens of thousands of people have turned out at a rally in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi for former cricketer turned politician Imran Khan.
Mr Khan, who has been an established politician for many years but has struggled to win votes, has seen his support increase recently.
Correspondents say he has been riding a wave of disillusionment, particularly among the urban middle class.
The next national elections are scheduled for 2013.
The turnout in Karachi was large, given Mr Khan's traditional support base is in
Punjab province
"It doesn't matter that he's a cricketer or something else. Whatever he is, he is not a diplomat, he is not a liar."
But our correspondent says that despite winning support from many disillusioned Pakistanis, Mr Khan still has a lot of work to do to clarify exactly what he stands for and whether he really does have the ability to lead the country out of its troubles.
The two main parties - the PPP and the PML-N - are still strongly entrenched and Mr Khan has yet to spell out the specific policies of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (Movement for Justice) party.
One policy Mr Khan has won support for his opposition to US drone strikes on militants inside Pakistani territory.
He also argues that foreign aid is fuelling corruption and should be stopped.
Mr Khan has won over key defectors such as the PPP's Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Javed Hashmi of the PML-N.
The turnout in Karachi was large, given Mr Khan's traditional support base is in Punjab province.
Mr Khan, who has been an established politician for many years but has struggled to win votes, has seen his support increase recently.
Correspondents say he has been riding a wave of disillusionment, particularly among the urban middle class.
The next national elections are scheduled for 2013.
'Potent power'
The BBC's Aleem Maqbool, at the rally, says there were posters, banners and T-shirts espousing hope - clearly reminiscent of the sentiment that carried President Barack Obama to office in the US.
One supporter there told the BBC: "I'm highly optimistic that Imran Khan has the potent power to bring in change which we highly need because our country can't survive without a fair and just leadership.
The BBC's Aleem Maqbool, at the rally, says there were posters, banners and T-shirts espousing hope - clearly reminiscent of the sentiment that carried President Barack Obama to office in the US.
One supporter there told the BBC: "I'm highly optimistic that Imran Khan has the potent power to bring in change which we highly need because our country can't survive without a fair and just leadership.
The turnout in Karachi was large, given Mr Khan's traditional support base is in Punjab province
"It doesn't matter that he's a cricketer or something else. Whatever he is, he is not a diplomat, he is not a liar."
But our correspondent says that despite winning support from many disillusioned Pakistanis, Mr Khan still has a lot of work to do to clarify exactly what he stands for and whether he really does have the ability to lead the country out of its troubles.
The two main parties - the PPP and the PML-N - are still strongly entrenched and Mr Khan has yet to spell out the specific policies of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (Movement for Justice) party.
One policy Mr Khan has won support for his opposition to US drone strikes on militants inside Pakistani territory.
He also argues that foreign aid is fuelling corruption and should be stopped.
Mr Khan has won over key defectors such as the PPP's Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Javed Hashmi of the PML-N.
The turnout in Karachi was large, given Mr Khan's traditional support base is in Punjab province.
CIA suspends drone attacks in Pakistan: report
LOS ANGELES: The US Central Intelligence Agency has suspended drone missile strikes on gatherings of low-ranking militants in Pakistan due to tensions with that country, The Los Angeles Times reported. Citing unnamed current and former US officials, the newspaper said late Friday the undeclared halt in CIA attacks is aimed at reversing a sharp erosion of trust between the two countries. US-Pakistani relations deteriorated last month after a series of US air strikes killed 24 Pakistan soldiers near the border with Afghanistan. A joint US-NATO investigation concluded that a disastrous spate of errors and botched communications led to the deaths. Pakistan has rejected the findings. The pause in the missile strikes comes amid an intensifying debate in the administration of President Barack Obama over the future of the CIA s covert drone war in Pakistan, the paper said.The CIA has killed dozens of Al-Qaeda operatives and hundreds of low-ranking fighters there since the first Predator strike in 2004, but the program has infuriated many Pakistanis, the report noted.Some officials in the State Department and the National Security Council say many of the airstrikes are counterproductive, The Times said. They argue that rank-and-file militants are easy to replace, and that Pakistani claims of civilian casualties, which the United States dispute, have destabilized the government of President Asif Ali Zardari.Some US intelligence officials are urging the CIA to cut back the paramilitary role it has assumed since the September 11, 2001, attacks to refocus on espionage, the paper pointed out.They suggest handing the mission to the Pentagon s Joint Special Operations Command, which flies its own drones and conducts secret counter-terrorism operations in Yemen and Somalia, The Times noted. (AFP)
Ties with Pakistan too important to fail: US
WASHINGTON: The United States said Friday that it was committed to working with Pakistan and pledged support for democracy, amid friction between the war partners and a political showdown in Islamabad.'The issues that we face -- the challenges we face -- are too important,' State Department spokesman Mark Toner told reporters.'We desire a closer, more productive relationship with Pakistan both militarily and as well as politically. And we re constantly working to build that closer cooperation,' he said.Relations between the United States and Pakistan have severely deteriorated this year. On November 26, US air strikes near the Afghan border killed 24 Pakistani soldiers, leading Islamabad to halt supply routes for NATO forces.The Pentagon on Thursday released a probe that acknowledged significant US responsibility and pinned blame on mistrust between the countries. But the investigation said that US forces responded only after coming under fire.Pakistan denied any fire and rejected the probe. It has pressed President Barack Obama for an apology.Tensions have also been rising within Pakistan, with Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday delivering unprecedented sharp criticism against the military and accusing 'conspirators' of plotting to bring down his government.Asked about the dispute, Toner said: 'We support the democratic process in Pakistan, we support the constitution and the rule of law, as well as the will of the Pakistani people.'But he added: 'This is a matter for the Pakistani people to resolve within their own political process.'Pakistan s army chief, General Ashfaq Kayani, on Friday denied that the military was plotting to seize power. The military has a long history of intervening in politics in Pakistan. (AFP)
Pakistan army chief dismisses coup rumours
Pakistan's army chief has dismissed reports that the military is planning to overthrow the civilian government.
Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani's comments come a day after Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani spoke of a conspiracy, in a clear reference to the army.
Tensions are high in the wake of a leaked memo that allegedly asked for US help to prevent a military coup.
President Asif Ali Zardari, who is now back after medical treatment in Dubai, denies any role in the memo.
Gen Kayani "strongly dispelled the speculation of any military takeover", a military statement issued on Friday said.
The rumours were "misleading and being used as a bogey to divert the focus from the real issues".
The general, who was addressing troops near the Afghan border, "reiterated that (the) Pakistan Army has and will continue to support the democratic process in the country", the statement went on.
The country's top judge also moved on Friday to play down worries over a possible coup.
"There is no question of a takeover. Gone are the days when people used to get validation for unconstitutional steps from the courts," said Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikar Chaudhry.Scandal pressure
Tensions are high between the civilian government, which has ruled since elections in February 2008, and Pakistan's powerful military and intelligence services, after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May.
The army was not told about the raid in advance.
On Thursday, Mr Gilani voiced unprecedented criticism of the army.
After speaking of conspiracies to overthrow the elected government, Mr Gilani said: "There can't be a state within the state. They have to be answerable to this parliament."
The latest developments come amid a scandal dubbed "memogate" that has forced the resignation of the Pakistani ambassador to the US and piled pressure on President Zardari and the civilian authorities.
Mr Zardari had no intention of leaving the country because of the memo scandal, officials from the governing party told Reuters news agency on Friday.
The president recently returned from Dubai where he had treatment for a heart condition.
"He is performing his usual work. He is here in Pakistan and he has come to stay," spokesman Farhatullah Babar told Reuters news agency.
Pakistan's Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Chaudhry, has opened a hearing into the memo scandal and demanded a reply from Mr Zardari.
Some analysts have speculated that the "memogate" affair is a conspiracy by the army to embarrass the government.
The military is the strongest institution in Pakistan and has staged three coups.
Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani's comments come a day after Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani spoke of a conspiracy, in a clear reference to the army.
Tensions are high in the wake of a leaked memo that allegedly asked for US help to prevent a military coup.
President Asif Ali Zardari, who is now back after medical treatment in Dubai, denies any role in the memo.
Gen Kayani "strongly dispelled the speculation of any military takeover", a military statement issued on Friday said.
The rumours were "misleading and being used as a bogey to divert the focus from the real issues".
The general, who was addressing troops near the Afghan border, "reiterated that (the) Pakistan Army has and will continue to support the democratic process in the country", the statement went on.
The country's top judge also moved on Friday to play down worries over a possible coup.
"There is no question of a takeover. Gone are the days when people used to get validation for unconstitutional steps from the courts," said Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikar Chaudhry.Scandal pressure
Tensions are high between the civilian government, which has ruled since elections in February 2008, and Pakistan's powerful military and intelligence services, after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May.
The army was not told about the raid in advance.
 |
| Mr Gillani: Nobody is above the law |
After speaking of conspiracies to overthrow the elected government, Mr Gilani said: "There can't be a state within the state. They have to be answerable to this parliament."
The latest developments come amid a scandal dubbed "memogate" that has forced the resignation of the Pakistani ambassador to the US and piled pressure on President Zardari and the civilian authorities.
Mr Zardari had no intention of leaving the country because of the memo scandal, officials from the governing party told Reuters news agency on Friday.
The president recently returned from Dubai where he had treatment for a heart condition.
"He is performing his usual work. He is here in Pakistan and he has come to stay," spokesman Farhatullah Babar told Reuters news agency.
Pakistan's Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Chaudhry, has opened a hearing into the memo scandal and demanded a reply from Mr Zardari.
Some analysts have speculated that the "memogate" affair is a conspiracy by the army to embarrass the government.
The military is the strongest institution in Pakistan and has staged three coups.
Pakistan's 'memogate' bodes ill for Zardari
With Pakistan's powerful military breaking with the government and backing a supreme court inquiry into the "memogate" scandal, things do not look good for President Zardari's three-year-old administration.
Former ambassador to the US Husain Haqqani has already lost his job in the row, although he claims he is innocent. Who is to say more heads will not roll?
The scandal revolves around a memo allegedly sent from Pakistan's political leadership via Mr Haqqani to Adm Mike Mullen seeking US help to tame the Pakistani military.
Pakistan's civilian leaders were allegedly worried the military was about to launch a coup after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May.
In recent days, the president's absence from Islamabad has fuelled speculation over what is going on.
Political observers went into overdrive last week when news emerged of his sudden departure to Dubai for medical treatment.
Political pundits think Mr Zardari is waiting outside the country and watching court proceedings from a safe distance. He does not want to get stuck like Mr Haqqani, who is barred by the court from leaving the country until the case is decided, the theory goes.
"During the last three years of its rule, Mr Zardari has tried to test waters against the security establishment. The notification to bring ISI under interior ministry a few months after talking over power in 2008 was one such step" Read More
Conspiracy Theories
The existence of the memo is more or less proven. In his court statement, Pakistan's military chief, Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, said the memo's existence had been confirmed by Adm Mullen and Gen James Jones. Now the answer everyone is looking for is - who was really behind it?
President Zardari and Husain Haqani both deny any involvement but the controversy continues to unfold.
The allegations against the ambassador were made by a US-based lobbyist, Mansoor Ijaz, and there are many still unanswered questions about his role. Mr Ijaz has a decade-long association with Mr Haqqani. Is he now playing a double game? Who stands to benefit - the Americans or the Pakistani military?
In his latest submissions, Gen Kayani refuses to name names but he nevertheless does make it clear that it was a conspiracy against the ever-powerful military.
Pakistan's military has defended its right to intervene in politics throughout its existence. No matter how weak it feels, few observers think the army will ever give this up.
Many believe the military must have carried out its own investigations and already reached some conclusions about the memo. But since the matter has now reached the judiciary, the army might be waiting for the names of those responsible to come from judges - it might prefer not to be seen to be weakening another civilian government.
One widely held view is that the conspiracy was actually cooked up by a military which views the Zardari government as having served its purpose. In Pakistani politics nothing is ever totally sure - but the same is true for "conspiracy theories" too.
Others say President Zardari was obediently following the military. People had even started talking about him winning a second term - but "memogate" has now highlighted the underlying split between the country's military and civilian leaders.
During its time in power, the Zardari administration has tried to test the waters against the security establishment. An attempt to bring the ISI under interior ministry control a few months after talking power in 2008 was one such step. Under military pressure, the notification had to be withdrawn within hours.
The appointment of Husain Haqqani, deeply unpopular with the military, as ambassador in Washington raised some senior security officials' eyebrows. "Memogate" - real or concocted - got them his head.
Gen Kayani's submission before the supreme court proves that it was he who asked the prime minister and later the president to recall Mr Haqqani. Again it was the military that made the political leadership take a step they would have loved to avoid. But the real question being asked now is - is this the end of the drama?
Former ambassador to the US Husain Haqqani has already lost his job in the row, although he claims he is innocent. Who is to say more heads will not roll?
The scandal revolves around a memo allegedly sent from Pakistan's political leadership via Mr Haqqani to Adm Mike Mullen seeking US help to tame the Pakistani military.
Pakistan's civilian leaders were allegedly worried the military was about to launch a coup after US forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Abbottabad in May.
In recent days, the president's absence from Islamabad has fuelled speculation over what is going on.
Political observers went into overdrive last week when news emerged of his sudden departure to Dubai for medical treatment.
Political pundits think Mr Zardari is waiting outside the country and watching court proceedings from a safe distance. He does not want to get stuck like Mr Haqqani, who is barred by the court from leaving the country until the case is decided, the theory goes.
"During the last three years of its rule, Mr Zardari has tried to test waters against the security establishment. The notification to bring ISI under interior ministry a few months after talking over power in 2008 was one such step" Read More
Conspiracy Theories
The existence of the memo is more or less proven. In his court statement, Pakistan's military chief, Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, said the memo's existence had been confirmed by Adm Mullen and Gen James Jones. Now the answer everyone is looking for is - who was really behind it?
President Zardari and Husain Haqani both deny any involvement but the controversy continues to unfold.
The allegations against the ambassador were made by a US-based lobbyist, Mansoor Ijaz, and there are many still unanswered questions about his role. Mr Ijaz has a decade-long association with Mr Haqqani. Is he now playing a double game? Who stands to benefit - the Americans or the Pakistani military?
In his latest submissions, Gen Kayani refuses to name names but he nevertheless does make it clear that it was a conspiracy against the ever-powerful military.
Pakistan's military has defended its right to intervene in politics throughout its existence. No matter how weak it feels, few observers think the army will ever give this up.
Many believe the military must have carried out its own investigations and already reached some conclusions about the memo. But since the matter has now reached the judiciary, the army might be waiting for the names of those responsible to come from judges - it might prefer not to be seen to be weakening another civilian government.
One widely held view is that the conspiracy was actually cooked up by a military which views the Zardari government as having served its purpose. In Pakistani politics nothing is ever totally sure - but the same is true for "conspiracy theories" too.
Others say President Zardari was obediently following the military. People had even started talking about him winning a second term - but "memogate" has now highlighted the underlying split between the country's military and civilian leaders.
During its time in power, the Zardari administration has tried to test the waters against the security establishment. An attempt to bring the ISI under interior ministry control a few months after talking power in 2008 was one such step. Under military pressure, the notification had to be withdrawn within hours.
The appointment of Husain Haqqani, deeply unpopular with the military, as ambassador in Washington raised some senior security officials' eyebrows. "Memogate" - real or concocted - got them his head.
Gen Kayani's submission before the supreme court proves that it was he who asked the prime minister and later the president to recall Mr Haqqani. Again it was the military that made the political leadership take a step they would have loved to avoid. But the real question being asked now is - is this the end of the drama?
'Calm nerves'
It seems President Zardari does not wish to take any chances, even if he is innocent. Official statements have cast doubt on whether he can be sure of his security in Islamabad and implied the medication he was on could be the reason for his illness.
On Friday, Pakistan's main English-language newspaper Dawn urged him to return home to "calm nerves and quell speculation that refuses to die down".
"Like it or not, the reality of Pakistan is that threats to the democratic process do lurk in the shadows. It is the responsibility of the civilian political leadership to deal with those threats effectively," it wrote.
After three years in office plagued by misrule and allegations of corruption, no one is betting at the moment on President Zardari or his government completing their terms.
The days of a military coup are gone in Pakistan, many analysts say, but the going for the government is about to get tougher.
It seems President Zardari does not wish to take any chances, even if he is innocent. Official statements have cast doubt on whether he can be sure of his security in Islamabad and implied the medication he was on could be the reason for his illness.
On Friday, Pakistan's main English-language newspaper Dawn urged him to return home to "calm nerves and quell speculation that refuses to die down".
"Like it or not, the reality of Pakistan is that threats to the democratic process do lurk in the shadows. It is the responsibility of the civilian political leadership to deal with those threats effectively," it wrote.
After three years in office plagued by misrule and allegations of corruption, no one is betting at the moment on President Zardari or his government completing their terms.
The days of a military coup are gone in Pakistan, many analysts say, but the going for the government is about to get tougher.
US admits mistakes over killings of Pakistan troops
The US military has admitted it bears significant responsibility for last month's air strike on the Afghan border that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers.
A statement said US and Afghan forces acted in self defence, but conceded there had been a lack of proper co-ordination with Pakistani forces.
BBC correspondents say the admission is expected to embarrass the US military.
In retaliation for the killings, Pakistan closed its border with Afghanistan, cutting Nato supply lines.
There was no immediate response from Pakistan to the findings of the US investigation. Pakistan, a vital partner in the fight against militants in the region, has demanded a formal US apology.
In the statement the US once again expressed its deepest regret for the "tragic loss of life" caused by the air strike in Mohmand tribal agency on 26 November.
"Inadequate co-ordination by US and Pakistani military officers operating through the border co-ordination centre - including our reliance on incorrect mapping information shared with the Pakistani liaison officer - resulted in a misunderstanding about the true location of Pakistani military units," it said.
"This, coupled with other gaps in information about the activities and placement of units from both sides, contributed to the tragic result."
A statement said US and Afghan forces acted in self defence, but conceded there had been a lack of proper co-ordination with Pakistani forces.
BBC correspondents say the admission is expected to embarrass the US military.
In retaliation for the killings, Pakistan closed its border with Afghanistan, cutting Nato supply lines.
There was no immediate response from Pakistan to the findings of the US investigation. Pakistan, a vital partner in the fight against militants in the region, has demanded a formal US apology.
In the statement the US once again expressed its deepest regret for the "tragic loss of life" caused by the air strike in Mohmand tribal agency on 26 November.
"Inadequate co-ordination by US and Pakistani military officers operating through the border co-ordination centre - including our reliance on incorrect mapping information shared with the Pakistani liaison officer - resulted in a misunderstanding about the true location of Pakistani military units," it said.
"This, coupled with other gaps in information about the activities and placement of units from both sides, contributed to the tragic result."
Pakistan confident of hosting international cricket in 2012
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) predicts international cricket will return to the country in 2012.
Pakistan have played all their matches overseas since the terrorists attacked the Sri Lanka team in Lahore in 2009.
But PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf has invited Bangladesh to tour, and said: "I am confident that international cricket will be revived in Pakistan."
The United Arab Emirates will host Pakistan's home series against England in the new year.
England will play three Tests, four one-day internationals and three Twenty20 games in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Ashraf discussed hosting the Tigers with Bangladesh Cricket Board president Mustafa Kamal last week, and a security team from Bangladesh will visit Pakistan in January, ahead of a potential tour in April.
Continue reading the main story
Even if [Bangladesh] play two or three matches, it will send positive signals to the cricketing community around the worldZaka AshrafPakistan Cricket Board chairman
"It's like breaking the ice," Ashraf added. "They will be meeting with top security officials of our government. We want to remove this security fear.
"Even if [Bangladesh] play two or three matches, it will send positive signals to the cricketing community around the world."
Six police officers and a driver were killed, and several players and officials injured, when gunmen opened fire on the Sri Lanka team bus on its way to the Gaddafi Stadium for the third day of the second Test.
All 27 of Pakistan's Tests and their 67 one-day internationals since the terror attacks have been played on foreign soil, and the World Cup games scheduled to be staged in the country earlier this year were moved for security reasons.
The UAE has served as Pakistan's temporary home, although Lord's and Headingley hosted two Tests against Australia in 2010.
Meanwhile, Pakistan have confirmed that Mohsin Khan will continue as interim coach for next month's Test and one-day series against England.
Pakistan have played all their matches overseas since the terrorists attacked the Sri Lanka team in Lahore in 2009.
But PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf has invited Bangladesh to tour, and said: "I am confident that international cricket will be revived in Pakistan."
The United Arab Emirates will host Pakistan's home series against England in the new year.
England will play three Tests, four one-day internationals and three Twenty20 games in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Ashraf discussed hosting the Tigers with Bangladesh Cricket Board president Mustafa Kamal last week, and a security team from Bangladesh will visit Pakistan in January, ahead of a potential tour in April.
Continue reading the main story
Even if [Bangladesh] play two or three matches, it will send positive signals to the cricketing community around the worldZaka AshrafPakistan Cricket Board chairman
"It's like breaking the ice," Ashraf added. "They will be meeting with top security officials of our government. We want to remove this security fear.
"Even if [Bangladesh] play two or three matches, it will send positive signals to the cricketing community around the world."
Six police officers and a driver were killed, and several players and officials injured, when gunmen opened fire on the Sri Lanka team bus on its way to the Gaddafi Stadium for the third day of the second Test.
All 27 of Pakistan's Tests and their 67 one-day internationals since the terror attacks have been played on foreign soil, and the World Cup games scheduled to be staged in the country earlier this year were moved for security reasons.
The UAE has served as Pakistan's temporary home, although Lord's and Headingley hosted two Tests against Australia in 2010.
Meanwhile, Pakistan have confirmed that Mohsin Khan will continue as interim coach for next month's Test and one-day series against England.
Pakistan Latest
Ab Khud Kuch Karna Paray Ga - Strings and Atif Aslam
This song is dedicated to all Pakistanis from all over the world to bring CHANGE in Pakistan as everyone is aware of Pakistan's current situation. The song reflect the image and scenario of Pakistan.
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Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan Title Song
Meri Zaat Zara-e-Benishan is a drama serial made in Pakistan based on a novel written by Umaira Ahmed. It is an emotional story of a girl named Saba and her daughter Sara. It is considered as one of the best dramas serials in Pakistan.
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