Author: none@none.com (Anwar Iqbal)
Pakistan’s envoy to the US, Masood Khan, appealed to Washington to supply small arms and modern equipment for Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, a counter-terrorism initiative. PM Shehbaz Sharif assured that this would not involve mass displacement. Ambassador Khan addressed US officials, emphasizing the need for advanced equipment to combat terrorist networks. He outlined the three components of Azm-i-Istehkam and stressed the importance of strong security ties and intelligence cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted the potential for strengthened Pakistan-US relations based on shared values and mutual interests. Khan encouraged US investors to explore Pakistan’s market opportunities and lauded the robust defense…
Recently, the US House of Representatives passed a resolution showing solid support for democracy in Pakistan with an overwhelming 368-7 vote. However, Pakistan’s Foreign Office has expressed concerns about the resolution, stating it comes from an incomplete understanding of the country’s political situation. The resolution titled ‘Expressing support for democracy and human rights in Pakistan’ highlights the US commitment to democratic values globally. It emphasizes free and fair elections and calls for an investigation into any claims of interference during Pakistan’s 2024 elections. Despite the resolution urging collaboration between the US and Pakistan on democracy and human rights, the Foreign…
US House of Representatives Passes Resolution Supporting Democracy in Pakistan In a historic move, the US House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed resolution HR 901, titled ‘Expressing support for democracy and human rights in Pakistan’, with a 368-7 vote. This bipartisan effort reflects the United States’ commitment to promoting democratic values globally. The resolution urged President Joe Biden to collaborate with Pakistan in upholding democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It emphasized the importance of free and fair elections and called for an investigation into any interference in Pakistan’s 2024 elections. HR 901 also condemned efforts to suppress democratic…
In a shocking turn of events, three US officials, including two military personnel, have resigned in protest against Washington’s support for Israeli military operations in Gaza. Larry Hebert and Juan Bettancourt cited their unwillingness to continue serving due to the US military’s involvement in the conflict. This follows Andrew Miller’s resignation, a senior State Department official who spoke out against the Biden administration’s policies during the Gaza conflict. The heartbreaking death of six-year-old Hind Rajab in Gaza prompted Hebert to seek conscientious objector status, while Bettancourt was moved by the devastation and civilian casualties in the region. Both officials described…
The IMF’s Demand for Enhanced Revenue Generation in Pakistan: Challenges and Implications The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is urging Pakistan to increase revenue through taxation and end subsidies on consumption as a condition for financial assistance. The government is now considering measures such as raising the General Sales Tax, removing tax exemptions, and aligning discount rates with market rates. However, implementing these reforms may pose challenges, especially for the salaried class and key economic sectors. The IMF’s insistence on revenue generation highlights the need for Pakistan to gain investor confidence and overcome its economic crisis. Economists suggest that taxing specific…
The United States seeks UN Security Council approval for a Gaza ceasefire, but Qatar highlights Israeli ambiguity towards President Biden’s peace plan. Despite no clear endorsement from both Israel and Hamas, Qatar received an Israeli proposal closer to aligning with Biden’s principles. Efforts are underway to finalize an agreement between the parties. Additionally, the US calls for UNSC endorsement of Biden’s ceasefire resolution to end the eight-month conflict, release prisoners, and provide aid in Gaza. While awaiting further comments, the US mission urges swift implementation of the proposal for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. In a surprising turn, President Biden…