Supreme Court declares NRO unconstitutional

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday threw the controversial National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) into the dustbin of history for being ultra virus of the Constitution because it ensured legal cover to corruption by the privileged class.

In its landmark and the expected judgment, a 17-member bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry declared the NRO an instrument void ab initio, being ultra vires and violative of various constitutional provisions including Articles 4, 8, 25, 62(f), 63(i)(p), 89, 175 and 227 of the Constitution.

Former federal minister Dr Mubashar Hassan, former bureaucrat Roedad Khan, Qazi Hussain Ahmed and Chief Minister Punjab Mian Shahbaz Sharif had challenged the NRO before the Supreme Court in 2007.

“All steps taken, actions suffered, and all orders passed by whatever authority, any orders passed by the courts of law including the orders of discharge and acquittals recorded in favour of the accused persons, are also declared never to have existed in the eyes of law and resultantly of no legal effect,” the court ruled in its short order read out by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry.

The larger bench of the apex court ruled that all cases in which the accused persons were either discharged or acquitted under Section 2 of the NRO or where proceedings pending against the holders of public office had got terminated in view of Section 7 thereof, a list of which cases has been furnished to this Court and any other such cases/proceedings which may not have been brought to the notice of this Court, shall stand revived and relegated to the status of pre-5th of October, 2007 position.

The Court directed the concerned courts including the trial, the appellate and the review courts to summon the persons accused in such cases and then to proceed in the respective matters in accordance with law from the stage from where such proceedings had been brought to an end in pursuance of the above provisions of the NRO.

The Court directed the Federal Government, all the provincial governments and all relevant and competent authorities including the prosecutor general of NAB, the special prosecutors in various accountability courts, the prosecutors general in the four provinces and other officers or officials involved in the prosecution of criminal offenders to offer every possible assistance required by the competent courts in the said connection.

The SC ruled that all cases which were under investigation or pending enquiries and which had either been withdrawn or where the investigations or enquiries had been terminated on account of the NRO shall also stand revived and the relevant and competent authorities shall proceed in the said matters in accordance with law.

The short order clarified that any judgment, conviction or sentence recorded under Section 31-A of the NAB Ordinance shall hold the field subject to law and since the NRO stands declared as void ab initio, therefore, any benefit derived by any person in pursuance of Section 6 thereof is also declared never to have legally accrued to any such person and consequently of no legal effect.

“Since in view of the provisions of Article 100(3) of the Constitution, the attorney general for Pakistan could not have suffered any act not assigned to him by the Federal Government or not authorised by the said government and since no orderor authority had been shown to us under which the then learned attorney general namely Malik Muhammad Qayyum had been authorised to address communications to various authorities/courts in foreign countries including Switzerland, therefore, such communications addressed by him withdrawing the requests for mutual legal assistance or abandoning the status of a civil party in such proceedings abroad or which had culminated in the termination of proceedings before the competent fora in Switzerland or other countries or in abandonment of the claim of the Government of Pakistan to huge amounts of allegedly laundered moneys, are declared to be unauthorised, unconstitutional and illegal acts of the said Malik Muhammad Qayyum,” the court ruled.

The short order also ruled that since the NRO stands declared void ab initio, therefore, any actions taken or suffered under the said law are also non est in law and since the communications addressed by Malik Muhammad Qayyum to various foreign fora/authorities/courts withdrawing the requests earlier made by the Government of Pakistan for mutual legal assistance; surrendering the status of civil party; abandoning the claims to the allegedly laundered moneys lying in foreign countries including Switzerland, have also been declared by us to be unauthorized and illegal communications and consequently of no legal effect, therefore, it is declared that the initial requests for mutual legal assistance; securing the status of civil party and the claims lodged to the allegedly laundered moneys lying in foreign countries including Switzerland are declared never to have been withdrawn.

The court ordered the Federal Government and other concerned authorities to take immediate steps to seek revival of the said requests, claims and status. The court further ruled that in view of the above noticed conduct of Malik Muhammad Qayyum, the then learned attorney general for Pakistan in addressing unauthorised communications which had resulted in unlawful abandonment of claims of the Government of Pakistan, inter alia, to huge amounts of the allegedly laundered moneys lying in foreign countries including Switzerland, the Federal Government and all other competent authorities are directed to proceed against the said Malik Muhammad Qayyum in accordance with law in the said connection.

The court expressed displeasure about the conduct and lack of proper and honest assistance and cooperation on the part of the chairman of the NAB, the prosecutor general of the NAB and of the additional prosecutor general of the NAB.

“It is not possible for us to trust them with proper and diligent pursuit of the cases falling within their respective spheres of operation,” said the short order. The court suggested that the Federal Government may make fresh appointments against the said posts of persons possessing high degrees of competence and impeccable integrity in terms of Section 6 of the NAB Ordinance as also in terms of the observations of this Court made in the case of Khan Asfandyar Wali Vs Federation of Pakistan (PLD 2001 SC 607).

The Court however, ruled that till such fresh appointments are so made, the present incumbents may continue to discharge their obligations strictly in accordance with law. They shall, however, transmit periodical reports of the actions taken by them to the Monitoring Cell of this Court which is being established through the succeeding parts of this judgment.

The larger bench also ruled that a Monitoring Cell shall be established in the Supreme Court of Pakistan comprising of the chief justice of Pakistan or a judge of the Supreme Court to be nominated by him to monitor the progress and the proceedings in the noticed and other cases under the NAB Ordinance.

“Likewise similar monitoring cells shall be set up in the high courts of all the provinces comprising chief justice of the respective province or judges of the concerned high courts to be nominated by them to monitor the progress and the proceedings in cases in which the accused persons had been acquitted or discharged under Section 2 of the NRO,” the ruling added.

The court directed secretary Law Division to take immediate steps to increase the number of accountability courts to ensure expeditious disposal of cases. Earlier, during hearing of the petitions against the NRO, the chief justice said even parliament has no right to change the basic structure of the constitution.

“In accordance to oath, we are committed to safeguard the constitution,” he remarked. The chief justice warned the NAB Chairman Naveed Ahsan about stern action if something false was detected in the list. He ordered the NAB chairman to sign the list if it was correct. On the court’s order, he signed the list.

The court also summoned the summary file of directives issued for the elimination of Swiss cases. On the excuse of acting attorney general, the court summoned principal secretary and secretary law. Secretary law while presenting the file in the court said attorney general wrote the letter for withdrawal of cases on the directives of Asif Zardari’s lawyer Farooq H Naek that was opposed by the then Law Minister Zahid Hamid.

The court also expressed displeasure on acting attorney general and said he hid the truth. The principal secretary of president Salman Farooqi informed the court that cases files are not present in the Presidency but are in the president’ camp office in Rawalpindi.

Mian Allah Nawaz, amicus curie (friend of court) in his arguments termed the NRO as filthy law and said anything, which is beneficial for some individuals, is illegal. Shaiq Usmani, another amicus curie submitted before the court that there was no legal ground of giving amenity under NRO. The president could only issue the ordinance, which will convert into law by the assembly.

During the course of the proceedings, the chief justice said how the assembly could declare corruption as legal. Other members of the bench included Justice Javed Iqbal, Justice Sardar Muhammad Raza Khan, Justice Khalil-ur-Rehman Ramday, Justice Mian Shakirullah Jan, Justice Tassadduq Hussain Jillani, Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk, Justice Raja Fayyaz Ahmed, Justice Chaudhry Ijaz Ahmed, Justice Muhammad Sair Ali, Justice Mahmood Akhtar Shahid Siddiqui, Justice S Khawja, Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali, Justice Khilji Arif Hussain, Justice Rahmat Husain Jafferi, Justice Tariq Parvez and Justice Ghulam Rabbani.

Pakistan must pressure Afghan Taliban: Petraeus

MANAMA: Pakistan needs to put pressure on the leadership of the Afghan Taliban operating inside its borders for long-term progress to be made in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus said on Sunday.

"(To make) the really significant progress in Afghanistan that will be necessary over time... it would be very helpful if additional pressure could be put (by Pakistan) on the leadership of the elements that are causing problems in Afghanistan," the head of the US Central Command told reporters on the sidelines of the sixth Manama Dialogue security conference.

He said, however, that Pakistani forces have carried out some "quite impressive" operations against Pakistani Taliban forces, fueled by the realisation that extremist groups operating in the country pose a threat.

"There was a recognition by all the Pakistani leaders (earlier this year)... that the main threat to the very writ of Pakistani governance was the internal extremist threat," he said.

"That recognition is of considerable importance because it was that that has supported the Pakistani military and Frontier Corps in conducting some quite impressive operations" against extremist groups, primarily the Pakistani Taliban, he added.

President Barack Obama's administration has pressed Pakistan to move against Taliban and Al-Qaeda sanctuaries inside its borders, saying success in Afghanistan depended on disrupting the cross-border safe havens.

CNG stations closed twice a week; people suffer

Updated at: 1411 PST, Sunday, December 13, 2009
ISLAMABAD: The people are facing problems as a result of twice-a-week holidays for CNG stations at the bidding of the federal government, Geo News reported Sunday.

The people voiced severe criticism of the weekly two-day closure of CNG sale and termed it tantamount to snatching livelihood of people.

The people said wherever they go for the gas, they are met with barriers with boards put up ‘CNG sale closed down’.

The domestic gas consumers said they are suffering greatly owing to the non-availability of gas for two days in a week.

The gas consumers stressed the CNG pumping stations should be permanently shut down in the country, if the vehicles are to be run on petrol.

Meantime, the employees said they have been directed against gas sale; accordingly, they are turning people away.

Waqar Younis made Pak team’s bowling/fielding coach

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former captain Waqar Younis as bowling and fielding coach of the national cricket team.

Accordding to the PCB spokesman, this appointment has been made for Pakistan’s tour of Australia where the national team will play three Test matches, five One-day Internationals and a Twenty20 International.

Earlier, Waqar Younis was appointed bowling coach of the Pakistan team in 2006 but he had resigned from the job in early 2007 due to differences with the then chairman of the board Dr Nasim Ashraf.

However, this is strange to note that assistant coach Aaqib Javed, who is included in the team management, is also a bowlerin whose presence the new bowling and fielding coach has now been appointed.

Bank of Punjab’s ex-president arrested in US

ISLAMABAD: The former president of Bank of Punjab Hamesh Khan has been arrested in US, NAB spokesman said.

NAB spokesman told Geo News that US department of justice has informed Pakistan about his arrest. The government had contacted Interpol for the arrest of Hamesh Khan after which the arrest has been made.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had directed to issue arrest warrant for Hamesh Khan and his son, in Rs 9 billion Bank of Punjab loan scam, owner of Haris Steel and his son Haris Afzal, industrialist Seth Yaqoob and his daughter Irum Yaqoob. Their assets had already been frozen.

Zardari Swiss accounts, references presented in SC

ISLAMABAD: National Accountability Bureau (NAB) presented the details of President Asif Ali Zardari’s Swiss accounts; while Sindh Advocate General presented the list of criminal cases abolished through National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) in Sindh.

The court also raised questions over the safety of Swiss records.

A 17-judge larger bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Iftikhar Muhammed Chaudhry is hearing the petitions against the NRO today on the third consecutive day.

Today before the interval, when the Sindh AG presented 180-page list of criminal cases abolished through the NRO in Sindh, the CJ asked as to where are the government orders regarding abolishment of these cases.

Chief Justice Chaudhry queried as to why the orders of the provincial government regarding abolishment of the cases are not included in the report, adding if the provincial government did not abolish the cases, then all the cases would be deemed pending.

Justice Javed Iqbal in his remarks expressed dissatisfaction over Sindh list and termed it ‘incomplete’. He also voiced displeasure over not giving the list to all the parties to the case.

The Advocate General was directed to contact the Chief Secretary and apprise the court of government orders.

Abdul Hafeez Pirzadah said in his arguments said the Parliament spurned to turn the NRO into law and this has never been a law.

Justice Khalilur Rehman Ramday said in his remarks several people took benefit from the NRO; but, there is nobody at present to defend it.

The NAB also presented two-page details of President Zardari’s Swiss accounts and references.

The NAB’s counsel Abdul Baseer Qureshi said the Bureau filed an application to the Swiss Bank for the transfer of $60 million; however, later on, the application was withdrawn.

The NAB’s Prosecutor General Danishwar Malik said he was commissioned to bring back the Swiss case record, which he left in London, so that it may be transferred to Pakistan in diplomatic bag.

On this, the court queried as to why the record was not brought in diplomatic bag from its first place in Geneva.

Justice Raja Fayyaz said the Swiss record was earlier safe; but, now it is otherwise.

Taliban detainee says Bin Laden is in Afghanistan

LONDON: A Taliban detainee in Pakistan claims to have information about Osama Bin Laden's whereabouts in January or February of this year.

His claims cannot be verified but a leading American expert says his account should be investigated.

The detainee claims to have met Osama Bin Laden numerous times before 9/11.

He told British Broadcast that earlier this year he met a trusted contact that had seen Bin Laden 15 to 20 days earlier across the border in Afghanistan.

"In 2009, in January or February I met this friend of mine. He said he had come from meeting Sheikh Osama, and he could arrange for me to meet him," he said.

According to the detainee, his contact is a Mehsud tribesman, responsible for getting al-Qaeda operatives based abroad to meetings with Bin Laden.

"He helps al-Qaeda people coming from other countries to get to the sheikh, so he can advise them on whatever they are planning for Europe or other places.

"The sheikh doesn't stay in any one place. That guy came from Ghazni, so I think that's where the sheikh was."

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has telephoned Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) Quaid Mian Nawaz Sharif and extended Eid greetings to him Sunday.

According to Presidential spokesman Farhatullah Babar, both the leaders exchanged views on the national political scenario.

In an eight-minute telephone call, they both agreed that enactment of the Constitution is essential for the national solidity.

Great recession in many Asian stock markets

LONDON: Global stock markets dropped for a second day running on Friday over investor alarm about the potential for a widespread default after Dubai's shock demand to suspend the debt of a key state company.

Asian indices suffered massive falls, with Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index slumping almost five percent by the close. Tokyo dived 3.22 percent, hit also by the yen striking a fresh 14-year high point against the dollar, which is bad for Japanese exporters.

Shortly after the start of European trading, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was down 0.36 percent at 5,175.44 points, one day after falling by its sharpest amount since March.

Frankfurt's DAX 30 shed 0.56 percent to 5,582.50 points and in Paris the CAC 40 lost 0.51 percent to 3,660.68.

The losses came after Europe's major stock markets had plunged by more than three percent on Thursday after Dubai's shock call to suspend the debt of a key state company fuelled anxiety over heavy public borrowing.

The continued widespread selling came as investors "headed for the exit door" after the Dubai government's investment vehicle Dubai World sought to suspend debt payments for six months, IG Markets analyst Ben Potter said.

Wall Street reopens on Friday for a shorter-than-usual session after shutting Thursday for Thanksgiving.

"Many participants are likely to be absent and liquidity may be thin, making for somewhat volatile conditions potentially as (US) markets digest" events in Dubai, said Barclays Capital analyst Huw Worthington.

The government of Dubai rocked financial markets on Wednesday when it said it would ask creditors of its Dubai World conglomerate, which has reported debts of 59 billion dollars (39.3 billion euros), for a debt moratorium of at least six months.

The Financial Times described the shock announcement as a "serious misjudgment or, more likely, a breathtaking cock-up."

The sheer size and exuberance of Dubai's property boom was always unsustainable, the newspaper said, noting that the emirate doubled in size and house prices almost quadrupled from 2002 to 2007, since when property prices have halved.

Analysts at Exane BNP Paribas said that "so far the situation in Dubai seems contained, but a rise in government bond yields due to a higher risk premium because of soaring budget deficits is one of the main risks" for 2010.

Zardari directs not to issue statements against MQM

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has directed his party leaders not to issue statements against Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) amid the rising tension between MQM and Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP).

According to sources, President Zardari telephoned Chief Minister (CM) Sindh Qaim Ali Shah and Provincial Interior Minister Zulfiqar Mirza directing them not to issue statements against MQM.

Meanwhile, Sindh Information Minister Shazia Murree said that reconciliation process with MQM will continue.

Talking to Geo News, Shazia Murree said PPP leadership following a clear policy for promoting political harmony in the country.

She said Provincial Interior Minister Zulfiqar Mirza might have adopted a hard tone during the speech, however the text did not contain harsh phrases.

‘President Zardari is promoting the reconciliation process, however PPP is not responsible to continue the same all alone.’

MQM leadership has been issuing statements on many a time, she continued.

She stressed PPP and MQM intend to work together forgetting their difference and added that MQM is our coalition party and will remain our ally in future as well.

Kashmiris stage protests as Manmohan visits WH

WASHINGTON-While President Barack Obama held talks with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Kashmiris and Sikhs gathered in front of the White House on Tuesday to protest New Delhi’s repression in the Indian-occupied Kashmir and Punjab.

Hundreds of Kashmiri men, women and children living in Washington metro area staged a peace rally to press their demands for a resolution of the decades-old Kashmir dispute. The participants carried anti-India placards reminding the world of the urgency to help resolve the Kashmir conflict.

They urged President Obama to persuade New Delhi towards resolution of the lingering Jammu and Kashmir dispute and fulfil his 2008 election campaign pledge.
The participants urged an end to human rights abuses in the heavily militarised Indian Held Kashmir.

Dr Ghulam Nabi Fai, Exective Director of the Kashmiri-American Council, emphasised that the Kashmir dispute remains key to long-term stability in South Asia.

He pointed out that this fact about the centrality of Kashmir resolution to South Asian peace has been recognised by all fair-minded and objective international security and political affairs experts.

‘Kashmir is one of the oldest disputes recognised by the UN but the Indian leaders don’t want the US President to talk about it — and our peace rally is meant to draw attention to the urgent need for efforts toward a fair settlement’, Dr Fai added. ‘Kashmir is recognised by the UN as a disputed territory whose status is yet to be determined by its people’, he said.

Nawaz meets Gilani at Nawabshah Airport

NAWABSHAH: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani met with former premier Nawaz Sharif and discussed accountability bill in detail.

Balochistan Package, issues related to National Reconciliation Ordinance, repeal of seventeenth amendment and other political affairs were also came under discussion in the meeting.

The meeting was held at Nawabshah Airport when the PML-N chief arrived here to visit neighboring Naushahro Feroze to offer his condolence to the family of renowned politician and National Peoples Party’s chief, Ghulam Mustafa Khan Jatoi, on his death. PM Gilani was also in Nawabshah en routing back to Karachi after condoling Jatoi’s family.

Opposition leader Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan at this occasion said his party agree with 80 percent points of accountability bill, however, there are reservations about rest of the points.

Belgian coma man was awake for 23 years

Updated at: 1158 PST, Tuesday, November 24, 2009
BRUSSELS: A Belgian man diagnosed as comatose for 23 years was in fact awake and conscious the whole time, doctors have revealed.

Rom Houben, 46, had no way to tell his family and doctors he could see them and hear what they were saying after waking up following a bad car accident in 1983.

He spent more than two decades in excruciating isolation until a neurologist realised he was not in a coma just unable to communicate.

The former engineering student and martial arts enthusiast, now 46, told German newspaper that he meditated to pass the long years trapped in his own body.

He remains haunted by the moment he first woke from the accident and realised something was wrong.

Mr Houbens is now in care in a hospital near Brussels and able to communicate through a computer.

New Zealand 276-6 at stumps in 1st Test vs Pakistan

DUNEDIN: Pakistan paceman Mohammad Asif celebrated his international cricket recall with three vital wickets to have New Zealand at 276-6 at stumps on the first day of the first Test here Tuesday.

Only a fielding lapse denied him a fourth wicket as New Zealand struggled through the first day after being sent into bat in reasonable conditions.

Daniel Vettori escaped a golden duck in one of three dropped catches that proved costly for Pakistan and allowed New Zealand to build two solid partnerships and recover from a first-ball dismissal.

Ross Taylor and Martin Guptill staged a 117-run rescue stand for the third wicket, while Vettori and Brendon McCullum had put on an unbroken 65 for the seventh wicket.

At stumps Vettori was on 40 and McCullum on 25 after successfully appealing against an lbw dismissal on the penultimate ball of the day.

But around them the New Zealand batting had a familiar air of frailty as Asif posted three for 76 off 24 overs. Mohammad Aamir had two for 62 and Umar Gul, although wicketless, bowled seven maidens in his first nine overs.

Asif, who arrived in New Zealand vowing to repair a promising career that had been stalled by injury and drug scandals, took wickets in the first and last sessions of the day.

15 militants killed as troops regain Gorgari town

PESHAWAR: Security forces started operation against militants in tehsil Bara of Khyber Agency.

Fifteen militants have been killed and six arrested during security forces took control of Gorgari and hoisted national flag.

According to FC media cell, security forces launched key operation in tehsil Bara of Khyber Agency named “ Khokh Ba Desham” which means “ severe punishment to rival” in local language.

Indefinite curfew has been imposed in the rural areas of tehsil Bara prior to the operation whereas curfew break has been withdraw in urban areas. Gunship helicopters along with ground troops taking part in the action. Fifteen militants have been killed and six arrested during security forces offensive in Gorgari, Malik Deen Khel and Tirah Valley. Several hideouts and 12 vehicles have been destroyed during the action.

GM Jatoi dead body in Karachi

KARACHI: The dead body of Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi has arrived here at Karachi airport from London, Geo news reported on Sunday while he will be laid to rest in his native city Noshero Feroz.

According to sources, his son Ghulam Murtaza Jatoi was also along his corpse while a large number of NPP activists received in grief his body along with his relatives and sons here at airport.

His funeral prayer has been scheduled to be said in New Jatoi at 1400 hours meanwhile, provincial local body government minister Agha Siraj Durrani and other key political personalities were also present on the occasion, sources said.

Indian court commission indicts Atal, Advani for Babri demolition

NEW DELHI: The Justice Manmohan Singh Liberhan Commission of Inquiry of Indian court has indicted former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, current Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha L K Advani and former BJP president Murli Manohar Joshi, among others, for the demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992, calling it a meticulously planned event, according to a news daily.

The report says that as per the evidence it gathered, which includes witness statements and official records, one of the key conclusions of the Commission is said to be that the entire build-up to the demolition was well planned. Besides, there was nothing to show that these leaders were either unaware of what was going on or innocent of any wrongdoing.

The Liberhan Commission analysed the entire sequence of events along with the facts and circumstances leading to the occurrences at Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid complex on December 6, 1992 — the day the Babri Masjid was brought down by kar sevaks

The news daily also reported that sources in the Union Home Ministry have confirmed to the news and have revealed that the report is also severely critical of many Muslim leaders representing organizations such as the Babri Masjid Action Committee and the All India Babri Masjid Action Committee.

The report was submitted on June 30 and is likely to be tabled in the current Parliament session.

Sugar price goes upto Rs80/kg in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: Sugar crisis continues here and the commodity is being black-marketed for upto Rs80/kg.

Due to the shortage of the essential food items, small shopkeepers are forced to procure the commodity in black-market later to sell at inflated rates.

On the other hand sugar is being supplied to utility stores less than demanded forcing the consumer to go back home in vain despite standing for hours in long queues.

Meanwhile, according to Director Food, NWFP, Abdul Ghafoor Baig, Khazana Sugar Mill is providing 1600 gunnysacks of the commodity to Peshawar dealers on daily basis against a demand of 2000-ton/day being main reason of price inflation.

First made in Pakistan fighter to roll out tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: The first state of the art JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter plane produced in Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra will roll out tomorrow.

This will kick start a new era in Pak-China relationship, and aviation industry, an official source told Geo News.

Both China and PAF attach a lot of importance to this project, which is materializing after hectic and laborious efforts spread over almost a decade, sources said.

The PAC has generated all the capability to produce the aircraft locally for its onward delivery to PAF besides materializing purchase orders from abroad.

The JF-17 Thunder a new generation, light-weight, all weather, day/night multi-role fighter aircraft with glass cockpit, hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls and efficient man-machine interface will ensure a minimal pilot workload.

The maximum speed of Mach 1.6 and a high thrust-to-weight ratio will enable it to perform well in an air defence role.

An ability to carry short- as well as long-range air-to-air missiles lends the aircraft a first shot capability.

In the surface attack role, a variety of weapons - conventional as well as precision-guided, a sophisticated avionics suite along with accurate weapon delivery system, ensure higher mission success rate.

An effective ECM suite will greatly enhance survivability of the platform.

Its anticipated air-to-air refuelling capability will provide the JF-17 with more loiter time to safeguard the frontiers and the ability to deliver the required punch at distance.

It will replace the ageing fleets of A-5s, F-7Ps and the Mirages in the PAF inventory thus fulfilling a multi-role task.

Malik ready to resign if Blackwater in Pakistan

Updated at: 1209 PST, Saturday, November 21, 2009
ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Rehman Malik, strongly defying reports of being operational in Pakistan, the Blackwater, an alleged US underworld terrorist organistation, has said he was ready to step down from office if Blackwater existed anywhere in Pakistan or there are evidences of its engagements in Pakistan, Geo news reported.

This Malik boosted talking to media in Islamabad on Saturday morning after attending a high-level meeting in connection with the efforts for release of detained Pakistani Dr. Aafia Siddiqui from US custody.

Army to work in sync with govt for Swat rehab: Kayani

SWAT: Army Chief General Ashfaqu Pervaiz Kayani Saturday said the Pak Army will stay every moment with the people of Swat.

Today, the Army Chief arrived in Swat where he attended a children ceremony in Saidu Sharif. He said the military put an end to the terrorists by launching a successful operation in Swat and the Pak Army rendered great sacrifices for the purposes.

Swat is absolutely peaceful now and the military is responsible for the security of the people here, he said adding the Army will work in concert with the government in rehabilitation process in Swat.

The COAS thanked the Swat people on cordial welcome accorded to him. He also met the area veterans and schoolchildren.

Earlier when the Army Chief arrived at Circuit House, Incharge of Operation Rah-e-Raast Maj Gen Ashfaque Nadeem briefed him. Corps Commander of Peshawar Masud Aslam was also present in the briefing.

On this occasion, curfew was clamped on Mingora-Saidu Sharif.

Political forces need to work in sync for national stability

KARACHI: Punjab Chief Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif Thursday said all the political forces of the country will have to jointly work for the stability of the country.

Addressing the media on the occasion of meeting with Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan, he said the country is severely panicked over the wave of extremism and militancy raging across the country, adding NWFP Government is putting up all-out efforts to cope with the incidents of terrorism in the province.

Shahbaz said the consensus was achieved in the meeting with the Sindh Governor to work to improve the situation.

On a query regarding Punjab’s stance on NFC Award, he said, “Punjab will display leniency in this regard, as I have pointed out last night.”

MQM too has right to practice politics in Punjab: Shahbaz

KARACHI: Punjab Chief Minister, Mian Shahbaz Sharif on Thursday called on Sindh Governor, Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan at the Governor House here.

During more than half an hour-long meeting, they discussed the prevailing political situation of the country and other issues of mutual interests.

Later, talking to the media the CM Punjab said all the political forces in Pakistan will have to show care to cope with the challenges confronting the country.

He said the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), is a political party and it has a vote bank.

Like other political entities in the country, the MQM too has right to practice politics in the Punjab province.

Mian Shahbaz Sharif said the NWFP government is dealing with extremism and terrorism.

To a question about injustices with the MQM in Punjab, he said he has taken notice of it.

He said the MQM is a reality; it has a vote bank and it also has complete right to politics in Punjab.

Meanwhile, Sindh Governor, Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan thanked the CM Punjab and said it is need of the hour that all political parties show positive approach to fulfil the aspirations of the people.

PM annoyed over TI corruption report in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has expressed his concern over the slippage of Pakistan’s ranking in the Corruption Perception Index, 2009, issued by the Transparency International, Geo news reported.

He has ordered immediate constitution of a Committee headed by Shaukat Tarin, Minister for Finance with Secretaries of Cabinet, Establishment, Finance, Planning & Development, Industries and Production, Interior, Health and Information Technology, as its members to review all governance issues raised in the media from time to time and those in the CPI report in consultation with Syed Adil Gilani, the head of Transparency International, Pakistan.

The committee shall submit its report in four weeks.

The Prime Minister has further desired that a comprehensive review of the law governing Pakistan Procurement Regulatory Authority and the rules framed hereunder, may also be undertaken by the Committee and suitable recommendations be submitted to him.

The Prime Minister has expressed the firm resolve of his Government to take Pakistan on the path of good governance and improve its standing, as a country possessing just and transparent governance system.

COAS warns not to misjudge Pakistan’s defence capability

RISALPUR: Chief of Army Staff Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said Pakistan’s defence capabilities should not be underestimated by any one as Pakistan army is fully capable to take on challenges.

Addressing a passing out parade of 67th course of engineering and 123rd course of GDP in PAF Academy here, army chief said Pakistan is facing extra ordinary internal and external challenges and threatened by adventurous neighbor. He said army will continue action against extremists. General Kayani said army achieved success in Malakand with the support of people.

Kayani said operation in South Waiziristan is test of army’s professional skills and they are getting success with the help of Pakistan Air Force (PAF). He said nation is united to give country true identity according to ideologies of Quaid-e- Azam and Allama Iqbal.

The chief of PAF Rao Qamar Suleman was also present at this occasion. Army chief distributed the awards to position holders’ graduates.

Mauritius buys two metric tons of gold from IMF

WASHINGTON: The African nation of Mauritius has bought two metric tons of gold from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for nearly 72 million dollars.

Sale of two metric tons of gold to the Bank of Mauritius, which is the central bank of Mauritius, was conducted on the basis of market prices prevailing on November 11 with proceeds equivalent to 71.7 million dollars, the IMF said.

Early this month, the Reserve Bank of India had announced buying 200 metric tons of gold from the IMF for 6.7 billion dollar.

This transaction is part of the total 403.3 metric tons sales approved by the IMF Executive Board in September and adds to the 200 metric tons already sold to the Reserve Bank of India.

The money, thus generated would be used by the IMF to fund projects in Africa and other third world countries.

Pakistan ranks 42nd in global corruption index: TI

KARACHI: According to the latest Transparency International (TI) corruption report, Pakistan has become more corrupt as compared to 2008.

The TI announced its report today in which Pakistan had moved up quite a few positions in the list of the most corrupt countries and ranked at number 42 in the list.

Releasing the annual report, the TI chief in Pakistan, Adeel Gilani, had said that anti-corruption efforts in the country had taken a 180 degree turn after Gen Pervez Musharraf issued the National Reconciliation Ordinance on October 5, 2007, 56 days after the ratification of the UN Convention against Corruption.

Somalia, Afghanistan seen most corrupt among 180 nations whereas New Zealand, Denmark have best scores in watchdog ranking

Releasing its annual Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) on Tuesday, the watchdog said Afghanistan had sunk for the second straight year in its ranking of 180 nations based on perceived levels of corruption in the public sector.

The CPI scores countries on a scale of zero to 10, with zero indicating high levels of corruption and 10, low levels. The ranking is based on data from country experts and business leaders at 10 independent institutions, including the World Bank, Economist Intelligence Unit and World Economic Forum.

For the third year running, the conflict-ridden east African nation of Somalia came in last, this time with a score of 1.1.

Afghanistan had the second-worst ranking at 1.3, down from 1.5 in 2008 and 1.8 in 2007. Myanmar followed with a score of 1.4, while Iraq and Sudan were both on 1.5.

New Zealand was the top-ranked country with a score of 9.4, followed by Denmark at 9.3, and Singapore and Sweden, both on 9.2.

Countries which saw their ranking drop included Iran, which fell to 1.8 from 2.3 following a presidential election in June that the opposition said was rigged.

Political turmoil also contributed to a fall in Ukraine's score to 2.2 from 2.5. Greece saw its score slide to 3.8 from 4.7, reflecting insufficient anti-corruption enforcement, lengthy delays in the judicial process and a string of corporate scandals that TI said pointed to "systemic weaknesses".

Nations that improved included the United States, which rose to 7.5 from 7.3. TI cited Washington's swift response to the financial crisis, including reforms demanding greater transparency and accountability.

Poland rose to 5.0 from 4.6 after establishing an anti-corruption office. Russia edged up to 2.2 from 2.1, a rise attributed to anti-corruption legislation introduced by President Dmitry Medvedev. But TI noted that the excessive role of the Russian government in the economy remained a problem.

Countrywide sugar crises continues

ISLAMABAD: People in most of the areas of country are still facing sugar shortage.

Even after the announcement made by the government the sugarcane crushing has yet not been started.

The commodity is not available even at the utility stores and sale points.

Officially 40 sales centre and 200 sale points have been set up in the city of Gujranwala, but the essential food item is not available at these points.

Multan, Sialkot, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Hafizabad and Mandi Bahauddin are also facing scarcity of sugar.

Shopkeepers are selling sugar upto Rs80/kg.

Op Rah-e-Nijat: 5 terrorists killed, Ahmed Wam secured

RAWALPINDI: Five terrorists have been killed in the ongoing operation Rah-e-Nijat during the last 24 hours.

According to ISPR, security forces conducted search operation at Ahmed Wam and cleared Shahvzai, Khaznikai, Udin Sar, during clearance operation, exchange of fire took place with terrorists, resultantly 5 terrorists were killed.

Security forces conducted search operation around Tiarza and recovered cache of arms and ammunition on Shakai – Kaniguram Axis.

Security forces established check post at Shah Wali Alghad, on Razmak- Makeen Axis.

Route to Laddah Bridge has been cleared from all obstacles; during the process of route scanning 4 IEDs were neutralized. Security forces also recovered large quantity of arms and ammunition.

Security forces completed concentration around Tauda China and searched 25 houses in village at Kam Narakai during the process 3 IED were also diffused.

Terrorists fired few rockets from southern direction of village of Wouchaba which was effectively responded.

During the ongoing operation Rah-e-Rast in Swat – Malakand, security forces conducted search operation at Karakar Banda, Ilam Saand, Ashar Banr, Gari Shamozai and killed 12 terrorists, while apprehended 2 suspects at Shalpin.

Seven terrorists voluntarily surrendered to security forces at Charbagh, Roria, Zara Khela.

11,533 Cash Cards have issued to displaced families of Waziristan.

10 dead, 30 hurt in Peshawar suicide blast

PESHAWAR: Bombs tore through security offices in Peshawar on Friday, killing at least 10 people and injuring more then 30.

Majority of the schools have been closed and papers scheduled today have been postponed.

According to reports, a suicide bomber traveling in a car was trying to reach intelligence agency office at Kyber Road. When stopped at security check post by security officials, he blew up himself. The loud explosion heard throughout the city after the blast with huge clouds of smoke spewing into the sky and debris littering the ground. The building was almost destroyed.

IG Police Malik Naveed said it was a suicide blast in which 10 people including security men were killed and more then 30 wounded. The injured were rushed to Lady Reading Hospital and Combined Military Hospital as emergency has been imposed in local hospitals.The Khyber Road has been closed for traffic and area has been sealed.

No load shedding in the country, claims PEPCO

LAHORE: There is no load shedding in the country due to balance in electricity demand and production and this will likely continue in coming days, said PEPCO sources.

According to Director General Energy Management PEPCO, Muhammad Khalid, electricity city production is 11,500 Megawatt which is equivalent to demand. Therefore, there is no load shedding in any part of the country. He said Karachi is getting 600 to 650 Megawatt daily basis. The closure of CNG stations also played a role in reduction of the demand. PEPCO will announce load shedding schedule if difference occur between supply and demand, he add

Vote count underway as polling concludes in GB elections

GILGIT: The vote count is underway as polling process has been completed in maiden elections of Gilgit-Baltistan legislative assembly. The polling in constituency 19 has been postponed due to demise of MQM candidate.

Long queues of public witnessed at different polling stations when polling opened at 8:
00 am which lasts till 4:00 pm. The polling process at some of the polling stations has been complete two hours before the closing time with 100 percent vote cast. The polling was conducted in a peaceful manner as minor incidents reported at few polling stations.

Over 7,17,286 voters will elect members of the Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly.

More than 250 candidates are taking part in the election being held in 23 constituencies out of 24. There would be no polling in constituency GB-19 where election was postponed due to the demise of MQM candidate Sher Bahadur Khan.

According to the Election Commission, 3,32,377 female and 3,84,909 male voters would cast their votes to elect 23 members for the assembly.

The Election Commission has made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of election. It has set up 982 polling stations in all six districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, of which 253 are reserved for women while 258 for male voters. Besides 511 mixed polling stations, the Election Commission has declared 153 polling stations sensitive and 119 stations very sensitive.

An election cell and a control room have also been established to address complaints or give information about the polls. Moreover, in order to conduct the election in a smooth manner, 24 returning officers and 25 assistant returning officers have been deployed while more than 3,000 polling staff has also been assigned duties on the polling day.

Foolproof security measures have been adopted under which around 5,000 security staff is deployed at the polling stations, especially the sensitive and highly sensitive stations. Two battalions of the Army have been called and moved to different areas of the region. Army soldiers would be available on a call in case of any emergency.

Meanwhile, political activities and election campaign ended at midnight on Wednesday under the election order. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of the area, Rahim Nawaz Khan Durrani, has directed all the district election commissioners and polling staff to ensure on time arrival at their respective stations.

Iqbal was more than a poet or philosopher: Dr Javed

LAHORE: Justice (R) Dr Javed Iqbal, the son of poet laureate Allama Mohammad Iqbal said the Ulema of subcontinent have neglected the ‘dynamic’ aspects of Iqbal’s thought due to considering him just a poet or philosopher.

Dr Javed expressed these views while addressing a seminar on ‘Iqbal and present day Pakistan’ organised by Iqbal Academy Pakistan and Mir Khalil-ur-Rehman Memorial Society at the occasion of 133rd Iqbal Day on Monday.

Dr Javed read out his thesis on: ‘Islamic State of Pakistan in the Ideology of Iqbal – How to achieve an ideal secular state’.

He said the ability of a nation for being talented and powerful lies in its capacity of bringing up unique and distinctive personalities.

‘Allama Iqbal also urged for encouraging the creation of self-identifying individuals’, he added.

Meanwhile, on this occasion renowned Religious Scholar Dr Israr Ahmed said that Allama Iqbal was a harbinger of the renaissance of Islamic Millat and resurgence of Islam as well.

Last day of Gilgit-Baltistan election campaign today

GILGIT: The political activities in Gilgit-Baltistan reach at its peak as election campaign will end at 8:00 pm today according to election order.

The political environment is hot despite freezing cold and different political parties organizing corner meetings. Chief Election Commissioner Gilgit-Baltistan Rahim Nawaz Khan Durrani said arrangements have been completed for the elections of Gilgit-Baltistan legislative assembly which will be held on November 12. Security has also tightened, he added.

20 extremists killed in last 24 hours: ISPR

RAWALPINDI: In last 24 hours, at least 20 terrorists have been killed and 8 soldiers including an officer were injured during Operation Rah-e-Nijat in South Waziristan Agency.

According to a press release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Sunday, security forces consolidated their positions around Sararogha, Raghzai, Sagar Langer Gel and recovered huge cache of arms and ammunition. During encounter 3 terrorists were killed.

Security forces fully dominate and control the entire Shakai – Kaniguram Axis and conducted search operation around the axis.

Search and clearance operation was conducted in Totai, Langar Khel, Tapparghai, Gutsurai, Gadowai, Bangal Khel and Kund Mela.

During search and clearance operation, huge quantity of arms, ammunition and explosives were found.

During encounter, 8 soldiers got injured including an officer and 12 terrorists were killed. A factory for making electrical devices for IEDs (circuits, remote control) was found at Gadawai and huge quantity of circuits and remote controls were recovered.

Security forces conducted clearance and search operation in Bhadur Khel, Manza Kai and Wuchoba.

Terrorists fired with small arms and rockets in Blanki Sar, Lagar Manza, Kund Mela and Makeen, during encounter 5 terrorists were killed.

Security forces discovered a cave used by terrorists in area Nakhtar near Shah Dhari and recovered cache of arms in Operation Rah-e-Rast.

Security forces conducted search operation in Roria near Gulibagh, Shalpin, Walahai and Mingora and apprehended 18 terrorists.

At least 3 terrorists voluntarily surrendered to security forces in Roria and Kabbal.

The security forces continued relief activities. 8,836 Cash Cards were issued amongst the displaced families of Waziristan.

Nobody won or lost on NRO: PM

LAHORE: Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani Sunday said the government did not let National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) become an issue of ego and that nobody won or lost on this issue.

Talking to media, the Premier said NRO is a thing of past, therefore, there is need for bringing it up anymore.

He said the government reinstated the Chief Justice and the deposed judiciary through an executive order.

He said Balochistan issue is not a new one, as the province has been facing deprivation for the last 62 years. We are also well aware of the terrorist activities in Balochistan and that exchange of views will be held during meeting with PML-N Chief Nawaz Sharif, he added.

To a question, he said Kerry Lugar Bill is a US law and not Pakistan’s. “No compromise will be made on the national security and nuclear program of Pakistan,” he asserted, adding, it is up to us to either accept or reject the aid under KLB.

He said it was the decision of the judiciary to present NRO before the Parliament.

7 killed, 4 hurt in SWA military offensive

WANA: At least seven more insurgents were killed and four others sustained injuries during ongoing military offensive in South Waziristan Agency (SWA) early on Thursday morning, Geo news reported.

According to ISPR sources, the military-militants fierce skirmishes are underway in Makeen, Ladha and Aasman Minza areas of SWA wherein, security forces resorted to heavy bombardment, gunship helicopters and Pakistan Air Force (PAF)’s fighter jet planes against extremists.

At least seven extremists were killed and four injured in fresh clashes here, sources maintained.

Hundreds of militants have been seeking refuge in separate parts of Kurram Agency, Orakzai Agency and South Waziristan Agency since yesterday following entry of security forces’ troops into Laddah, a militants’ stronghold, sources added.

The tunnel road linking Kurram and South Waziristan Agencies has been blocked to prevent militants’ refuge into adjoining areas, sources concluded.

NCE formally allowed for edible oil trading

KARACHI: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has formally permitted National Commodity Exchange (NCE) for trade of edible oil, Geo news reported on Thursday morning.

The Managing Director of NCE Sumair Ahmed told Geo news, the NCE had been waiting, from federal government, for the approval of gazette notification for last one month, which would allow the organization to trade raw edible oil, however, SECP informed us yesterday that commencement of edible oil trading did not require such notification.

He hoped to kick off crude oil trading within two weeks to come, adding, oil companies will be beneficiaries of edible oil trading the most among others.

Afridi helps Pakistan sink New Zealand

ABU DHABI: Shahid Afridi hit an aggressive half-century and took two wickets to cap Pakistan's 138-run win over New Zealand in the first day-night international here on Tuesday.

Afridi's 50-ball 71 supplemented by Kamran Akmal's undefeated 43-ball 67 and Khalid Latif's steady maiden fifty lifted Pakistan to an imposing 287-9 before they shot New Zealand out for 149 in the 40th over.

The victory, which gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match one-day series, was also a sweet revenge for the winners who lost to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy semi-final last month.

The remaining two matches will be played here on Friday and Monday, before the two teams move to Dubai for two Twenty20 internationals on November 12 and 13.

Chasing a daunting target, New Zealand were never on course as Gul shook them by bowling Brendon McCullum (21) and Martin Guptill (four) by the tenth over.

Teenager Mohammad Aamir accounted for Ross Taylor (nought) and Abdul Razzaq sent Scot Styris (five) back as New Zealand reeled at 50-4.

Aaron Redmond (52) and Daniel Vettori (38) provided the only resistance during a 69-run fifth wicket stand before five wickets fell for 10 runs.

Earlier, it was Akmal who gave Pakistan's innings the final touches with a belligerent 43-ball 67 laced with four sixes and five boundaries as Pakistan ran rampant, making 107 in the last ten overs.

He built on vice-captain Afridi's innings, who was instrumental in initially stepping up the run-rate with his bold hitting as he smashed three sixes and four boundaries during his 30th half-century.

Afridi added 101 runs for the fifth wicket with Latif after New Zealand paceman Shane Bond dismissed opener Salman Butt and Younus - both without scoring - in his incisive five-over spell.

Latif, who scored 19 in his only previous one-day match in January last year, was also involved in a 57-run stand for the third wicket with Mohammad Yousuf, who shaped well for his 30 before being run out.

Afridi hit Vettori for a six before smashing two off successive deliveries off Nathan McCullum. He hit Bond for a straight drive to reach his half-century off 36 deliveries, his first in 33 matches.

Afridi's last ODI fifty came against Zimbabwe at Multan last year.

Latif hit only two boundaries during his 112-ball knock.

Kamran's innings was special as he made full use of the power-play, and added 86 off just 37 balls for the seventh wicket with Abdul Razzaq, who made 20-ball 26.

The limited over series was relocated to Abu Dhabi after New Zealand refused to tour Pakistan over security fears.

Forces kill 11 militants in South Waziristan

PESHAWAR: Eleven militants were killed and 14 wounded in ongoing operation Rah-e-Nijat in South Waziristan. Some key strongholds were also destroyed in the action.

According to sources, operation is underway in Garhsira, Rogha, Kanigram and Makeen areas. Eleven militants were killed and 14 injured in the action. Security forces started search operation in Sararogha, Kanigram, Kot and other areas after took the control of these areas. The militants are fleeing towards North Waziristan, Kurram Agency and other areas.

More then three militants have been killed so far during operation continued since three weeks and heavy arms cache recovered.

Parliament behind decision not to take NRO in House: PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said we are sincere about the promises made in charter of democracy and we will eliminate 17th amendment and 58-2B.

Addressing in National Assembly, Gilani said Peoples Party had never accepted emergency and always put resistance against it. Parliament should not be split over non issues as the decision of not presenting NRO in parliament has been taken in accordance with the desire of the parliament.

Four dead in Karachi train collision

KARACHI: At least four persons have died and scores other were critically injured including children, as a passenger train by the name Allama Iqbal Express (AIE) has run into a goods’ train near Jumma Goath here in Landhi locality of Karachi on Tuesday morning, Geo news quoted Edhi sources as saying.

According to preliminary reports, AIE passenger train, being on its way from interior Sindh, met a head-on collision with a goods’ train coming from the front, leaving as many as four persons dead and dozen others wounded.

Meanwhile, four among wounded persons reportedly died during accident, Edhi sources said. Also, women and children were among killed and wounded persons, sources added.

People, on their own, are partaking in rescue efforts as several passengers are still caught in train’s damaged compartments, meanwhile, Edhi and Chiipa welfare ambulances have rushed as many as 25 injured persons to hospital, sources concluded.

Emergency has been imposed in JPMC hospital, hospital sources said.

Space hotel sees 2012 opening

Updated at: 1124 PST, Saturday, October 31, 2009
Space hotel sees 2012 opening BARCELONA: "Galactic Suite", the first hotel planned in space, expects to open for business in 2012 and would allow guests to travel around the world in 80 minutes.

Its Barcelona-based architects say the space hotel will be the most expensive in the galaxy, costing $4 million for a three-day stay.

During that time guests would see the sun rise 15 times a day and use Velcro suits to crawl around their pod rooms by sticking themselves to the walls like Spiderman.

Company director Xavier Claramunt says, "It's the bathrooms in zero gravity that are the biggest.

"How to accommodate the more intimate activities of the guests is not easy."

But they may have solved the issue of how to take a shower in weightlessness -- the guests will enter a spa room in which bubbles of water will float around.

When guests are not admiring the view from their portholes they will take part in scientific experiments on space travel.

Galactic Suite began as a hobby for former aerospace engineer Claramunt, until a space enthusiast decided to make the science fiction fantasy a reality by fronting most of the $3 billion needed to build the hotel.

An American company intent on colonizing Mars, which sees Galaxy Suite as a first step, has since come on board, and private investors from Japan, the United States and the United Arab Emirates are in talks.

CJP Chudhry Iftikha refuses plot in capital’s posh area

Updated at: 0933 PST, Saturday, October 31, 2009
CJP refuses plot in capital’s posh area ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has rejected the government’s offer of allotment of a residential plot worth Rs30 million in Islamabad, it is learnt.

GM Sikandar, former housing and works secretary and presently member of the federal services tribunal, told media on Friday that in line with the government’s policy the housing ministry had issued an offer letter to the chief justice of Pakistan for the allotment of a 600 sq yard residential plot in I-8 Sector of Islamabad on August 10 this year but the same day the government had to cancel the allotment after Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry refused to accept it.

The housing ministry that had taken the initiative apparently to please the chief justice was given a dressing down and had to undo everything within hours. Sikandar confirmed that the ministry had also sought the list of other Supreme Court (SC) judges, who were to be provided the second residential plot in Islamabad in line with the official policy.

By surrendering his right protected under the stated government policy, Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry seems to have subtly rejected the plot politics of Pakistan, which enables a select few influential groups to get the lion’s share in state resources, leaving nothing for the poor and the needy.

Interestingly it was soon after the November 3, 2007 PCO of General Musharraf that the then ruling junta made the new policy whereby the judges of the Supreme Court were entitled to get two residential plots in Islamabad as was allowed to the federal secretaries and BS-22 officers of the federal government.

The immediate beneficiaries of the policy were all the five judges of the Supreme Court, who had taken oath under the PCO including Justice (retd) Abdul Hameed Dogar, Justice (retd) Nawaz Abbasi, Justice (retd) Faqir Muhammad Khokhar, Justice (retd) Javed Buttar and Justice (retd) Saeed Ashad. All these PCO judges were given additional residential plots within a few weeks of the November 3 episode.

Sources in the Federal Government Employees Housing Foundation (FGEHF) said that these PCO judges were even taken to D-12 sector to select the plots of their choice for their services to the dictator of the day.

A few weeks before November 3, 2007 the then Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry had taken suo moto notice of the government’s decision to allot two residential plots to federal secretaries in Islamabad.

While issuing notices to all concerned, Justice Iftikhar had questioned how the government could distribute the state land to a select group like sweets. But before he could decide the case, Musharraf imposed his unconstitutional PCO following which the PCO judges took no time to dismiss the suo moto notice. Consequently, they too got the additional plots.

6 Afghans arrested in Ubaro

Updated at: 1411 PST, Friday, October 30, 2009
6 Afghans arrested in Ubaro UBARO: Six Afghan nationals have been arrested by Ubara police have arrested six Afghan nationals at Sindh-Punjab border from Karachi bound buses and registered a case.

According to DPO Ghotki Ghazi Salahuddin, six Afghans traveling to Karachi from Peshawar and Punjab have been arrested at Sindh-Punjab border. The arrested persons identified as Noor Muhammad, Obaidullah, Rangeen Khan, Essa Khan, Gul Akbar and Ghal Khan. A case has been registered against the detainees under foreign act and they will be send to jail after producing in the court, he added.

Drone attacks creating hatred, FATA leaders tell Hillary

Updated at: 1532 PST, Friday, October 30, 2009
Drone attacks creating hatred, FATA leaders tell Hillary ISLAMABAD: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton met with members of National Assembly from FATA.

During a meeting, tribal leaders made it clear that use of power is not the solution of problems and drone attacks creating hatred in FATA. The delegation has assured US secretary of state that tribal are not terrorists.

Clinton said US will continue its cooperation with Pakistan in war against terror. She said Pakistan-US ties are not restricted to war and security issues as US wants long term and durable relationship with Pakistan.

Hillary Clinton also attended a cultural show in Pakistan National Council under strict security. Later, she met with delegations of intellectuals, civil society and women and discussed development in social sector.

Sugar crisis getting worst across Pakistan

Updated at: 1258 PST, Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Sugar crisis getting worst across Pakistan

LAHORE: Sugar crisis is getting worst across the country as shopkeepers claim they cannot sell the commodity on low prices after purchasing it on high cost, whereas the concerned government officers appear to raid and fine only small shopkeepers.

Government has failed in having the commodity availed for Rs36/kg as per the judicial rulings.

Sugar shortage continues to rise in retail market since the wholesalers and small shopkeepers are not purchasing the commodity on high price to avoid raids and fines.

Masses are unable to avail the essential food item despite 6,76,000 tonnes sugar is stocked in the godowns of sugar mills and Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP).

In some cities the essential food item is hardly available even for Rs100/kg

SBP predicts 2.5 to 3.5 percent growth rate 2009-10

Report by State Bank of Pakistan.
KARACHI: Pakistan’s economy is showing a gradual recovery and real gross domestic product (GDP) growth is likely to be close to the target of 3.3 percent during the current fiscal year (2009-10), according to State Bank’s Annual Report on State of the Economy for the year 2008-09 released Thursday.

The Report said that signs of recovery during FY10 are evident from a rise in imports during July 2009, which points towards a possible pick up in domestic demand, comparatively lower decline in large scale manufacturing (LSM) growth and resolution of circular debt problem that would support production activities in oil and energy sectors.

Moreover, SBP Report pointed out that a sharp fall in inflation in recent months has reduced uncertainty over relative prices and would support increase in investment demand. Although current SBP projections indicate that average annual inflation for FY10 is likely to ease, there remain significant risks to the inflation outlook.

Going forward, the Report projected that GDP growth is likely to be between 2.5 - 3.5 percent in FY10, while average CPI annual inflation is expected to be 10 - 12 percent and both the fiscal and current account deficits are likely to be 4.7 - 5.2 percent.

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Inventor Moms Launch Necklace Line Designed Just For Moms

We all know “Mother knows best,” the premise of a recent segment that aired on Fox 10’s Arizona Morning show, (July 9, 2008), which featured products designed by moms, for moms. Included were Shannon Decker and Jasmine Olson, inventors and co-founders of My Mommy’s Necklace, a line of chic, trendy necklaces designed exclusively for moms and able to withstand the taunting tug of a toddler.