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.