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US ambassador says beijing stance on TikTok ban supremely ironic

March 25, 2024March 15, 2024 by Muhammad Talha

The remarks made by the US ambassador to China on Friday highlighted the striking irony of Beijing’s stance regarding the potential ban of TikTok in the United States.

The ambassador pointed out that while China criticizes the US for considering such measures, its own government actively censors online platforms within its borders, exemplifying a hypocritical stance.

The bill, which the US House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed on Wednesday, seeks to compel TikTok to sever ties with its Chinese parent company or face a nationwide prohibition.

Beijing responded sharply to this decision, denouncing what it termed as Washington’s “bandit” mindset and accusing US lawmakers of unfairly targeting foreign companies.

In rebuking China’s reaction, US ambassador Nicholas Burns highlighted the inconsistency of Beijing’s position, noting that while China blocks numerous Western web platforms from operating within its territory, it criticizes the US for its scrutiny of TikTok.

During an online seminar conducted by the East-West Centre, a US-based research organization, Burns expressed his incredulity at China’s criticism, stating, “I find it supremely ironic that government officials here in China… have been criticizing the United States for the debate we’re currently having on TikTok.

He further emphasized this point by highlighting China’s denial of access to TikTok for its own population of 1.4 billion.

China’s stringent control over online information and its censorship of politically sensitive social media content are well-documented. Western platforms like Google, Facebook, and Instagram remain blocked from operating in the country, underscoring the double standard in Beijing’s approach to online regulation.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, operates a separate version of the app within China known as Douyin, further illustrating the complex dynamics at play in the intersection of technology, politics, and international relations.

Real irony,

On Friday, China retaliated against Burns’s remarks, asserting that the US position on the app represented “the real irony.”

When Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, was asked about the ambassador’s seminar, he said that the US is trying hard to use its national power to limit TikTok.

Gyanesh Kumar, Sukhbir Sandhu appointed as a Election Commissioners of India

March 25, 2024March 15, 2024 by Muhammad Talha

The official government notice issued on Thursday announced the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu as Election Commissioners, replacing Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goel.

More about election commissioners,

This decision follows shortly after Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, revealed that the two former IAS officers had been selected for the positions.

The appointments of Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu come after Pandey retired on February 14 upon reaching the age of 65, while Goel’s unexpected resignation caught many by surprise.

Ensuring that the Election Commission is fully staffed with all three members is crucial, especially with the Lok Sabha elections approaching. The Election Commission is led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

According to sources, the Commission is expected to announce the dates for the Lok Sabha polls on either March 15 or 16.

The appointment of the two new Election Commissioners followed a meeting of a three-member high-level selection board chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury was among the three panel members appointed to select the poll officers.

Chowdhury expressed opposition to the process used to appoint the election commissioners. The Congress leader mentioned receiving a list of 212 names late Wednesday night and having to attend the meeting at 12 pm on Thursday.

Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu were selected from a pool of six shortlisted candidates, all of whom are former bureaucrats.

Having a full Election Commission is really important, especially because the Lok Sabha elections are coming soon.

The Election Commission is run by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

We’ve heard that the Commission might announce when the Lok Sabha polls will happen on either March 15 or 16.

Two new Election Commissioners were chosen after a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a three-member team.

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury was one of the three people who were supposed to choose the new poll officers.

Chowdhury didn’t like the way the election commissioners were picked. He said he got a list of 212 names late at night on Wednesday and had to go to the meeting at 12 pm on Thursday.

Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu were picked out of six people who were shortlisted. All six of them used to work as bureaucrats.

Govt slams PTI for dragging EU, IMF into domastic squabbles

March 25, 2024March 14, 2024 by Muhammad Talha

• At a press conference held in Islamabad, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar launched scathing criticism against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), alleging that the party had been engaging in actions detrimental to Pakistan’s interests by seeking intervention from international bodies such as the European Union (EU) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

• Tarar emphasized his concerns regarding what he deemed as PTI’s deliberate attempts to undermine Pakistan’s sovereignty and economy. He specifically pointed fingers at PTI spokespersons, insinuating that they were operating under instructions from jail, presumably referring to key figures within the party who might be incarcerated.

• Taking a firm stance, Tarar asserted that no entity, regardless of its political affiliation, would be permitted to compromise Pakistan’s economic stability or national interests.

• In response to Tarar’s accusations, a spokesperson for PTI vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as baseless and devoid of truth. The PTI representative dismissed Tarar’s claims as a fabrication aimed at tarnishing the party’s reputation.

• The Information Minister vehemently refuted any claims suggesting that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) had corresponded with the European Union (EU), affirming that no such letter had been penned nor was there any intention to do so.

• Levelling scathing criticism against PTI’s leadership, the minister accused them of engaging in conspiracies aimed at destabilizing Pakistan’s economy. He drew parallels with past instances where PTI allegedly attempted to thwart economic agreements, citing a letter purportedly sent to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during a previous tenure, urging the IMF not to engage in a loan agreement with the Pakistani government.

• Highlighting the alleged actions of PTI’s founder, the minister insinuated that previous attempts were made to push the country into default. However, he claimed these efforts were thwarted when Pakistan ultimately entered into an agreement with the IMF.

• The minister alleged that PTI leadership had once again endeavored to disrupt the IMF agreement through another letter, questioning the authority under which such correspondences were made.

• Emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s interests, the minister underscored ongoing efforts aimed at economic revival. He criticized PTI for prioritizing its own agenda over national interests and integrity.

• Regarding the significance of Pakistan’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Plus status, the minister outlined its benefits, including increased foreign exchange, enhanced exports, currency stabilization, inflation mitigation, and job creation.

• Responding to inquiries, the minister disclosed allegations that elements within PTI were purportedly contacting the EU with intentions to revoke Pakistan’s GSP Plus status, describing such actions as a nefarious conspiracy aimed at inflicting suffering upon the nation’s populace.

PTI assails Tarar

In response to the Information Minister’s assertions, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) swiftly criticized Mr. Tarar, refuting his claims and denying any involvement in drafting a letter to the European Union (EU) aimed at revoking Pakistan’s GSP Plus status. The PTI spokesperson clarified that there were no plans whatsoever within the party to pursue such action. Instead, the spokesperson credited PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, for assuring the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which reportedly led to the release of the second tranche of the IMF bailout package for Pakistan.

Dismissing Mr. Tarar’s accusations as unfounded, the PTI spokesperson labeled them as a concoction of falsehoods and nonsense.

Moreover, the spokesperson urged those accused of stealing the national mandate to repatriate the ill-gotten wealth stashed abroad to aid in stabilizing Pakistan’s faltering economy, rather than indulging in lectures on patriotism.

Highlighting PTI’s efforts to ensure the success of the IMF program despite facing severe oppression, suppression, and political victimization, the spokesperson challenged the minister to come forth with the truth, attributing delays in the program to the obstinacy of Ishaq Dar and his party, a point allegedly conceded by former PML-N ministe

The spokesperson further alleged that the priorities of the purportedly experienced ministers of the ‘PDM-2’ alliance were not aligned with national welfare but focused on plundering the national treasury for personal gain.

Concluding, the spokesperson advised the government, dubbing it the “government of Form 47,” to abandon the politics of deceit and prioritize the welfare and prosperity of the nation.

EU denies receipt

In response to the unfolding events, the European Union’s delegation in Islamabad clarified on Wednesday that they had not received any formal communication from the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) regarding the Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) trade status held by Pakistan.

Samar Saeed Akhtar, Press Officer for the EU Delegation, unequivocally stated, “We have not received any official communication from PTI regarding GSP+,” thereby offering a clear position on the matter to Dawn.

Since 2014, Pakistan has benefitted from the GSP+ program, an initiative crafted by the EU to incentivize developing nations to uphold human rights, labor standards, environmental protection, and good governance through trade incentives. These incentives include reduced tariffs for exports to the EU market. However, Pakistan’s eligibility for this preferential status is contingent upon demonstrating substantial progress in implementing 27 international conventions covering various rights and governance issues.

The EU diligently monitors adherence to these conventions, relying on reports from the UN and other international bodies, and conducts regular assessments through missions on the ground. The outcomes of these evaluations are documented in reports to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU, with biennial reviews completed in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022. The latest review underscored ongoing concerns regarding enforced disappearances and declining media freedom.

In October, the European Parliament extended Pakistan’s GSP+ status until 2027, facilitating duty-free exports on 66 percent of product tariff lines to the European market.

However, the EU retains the authority to withdraw the GSP+ status if a beneficiary country fails to meet the program’s stringent criteria. This withdrawal process typically involves a dialogue phase aimed at remediation but may result in the suspension of benefits if issues are not adequately addressed, as evidenced by the case of Sri Lanka in 2010 due to human rights concerns.

In April 2021, the European Parliament adopted a resolution urging a review of Pakistan’s GSP+ status due to an “alarming” increase in blasphemy allegations and escalating attacks on journalists and civil society.

Punjab Police unleash might on PTI protesters

March 25, 2024March 12, 2024 by Muhammad Talha

In Lahore and Islamabad, the Punjab Police kept using power to handle PTI protesters on Sunday. Many party workers got hurt and some important leaders got arrested while they were protesting against supposed unfair elections.

Rallies and demurrers came in big towns per over the country, because PTI’s creator, Imran Khan, who’s in jail, asked for them.

The complaints got a response from the police, especially in Punjab, where multiple leaders, workers, activists, and backers got arrested.

vids on social media showed police being rough with protesters, truly pulling them out of automobiles with PTI flags.

In Lahore, PTI MNA Sardar Latif Khosa, old leader Salman Akram Raja, and MPs Farhat Abbas and Mian Haroon Akbar were arrested in different places. Their families say they do not know where they are.

Ruthless action about PTI Protesters

People protesting in Lahore’s GPO Chowk, the biggest demur spot, reminded Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif of her word to be tough on violent demurs.

Another protester, Naveed Ali, said the PML- N government should stop being so controlling because they should not use force on unarmed protesters.

” The big demurs in the area show that people aren’t scared and are fighting for justice against the big two-timing in the election results and theft of their vote,” said another activist.

While protesters were antsy about police being violent, some newshounds and social media people covering the complaint at the GPO Chowk were also beaten by police.

Besides Lahore, PTI also had rallies in Kasur, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, Rawalpindi, Sahiwal, Multan,D.G. Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Layyah, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffargarh.

MPAs Awais Virk, Tayyab Rasheed, and Sarfraz Dogar were arrested in Sheikhupura. PTI’s applicants Sabir Ansari from NA- 131, Mehr Mohammad Saleem from PP- 177, and head of the labor block Mehr Safdar were arrested in Kasur.

PTI Protesters Condemn Police Action

PTI said they condemn the police action and arrest of party workers and leaders likeMr. Khosa andMr. Raja.

They said the Chief Minister should stop arresting peaceful protesters.” The fake government is afraid of demurs,” said a PTI mouth.

PTI leader Moonis Elahi said the Chief Minister was behind the police bearing.” She lost her own seat and ruined her party. By arresting our PTI leaders and workers, she’ll make sure her party fails,” he said.

He said police locked the gates of his home in Gujrat to stop his mama and aunt from joining the protest.

PTI Protesters Rally in Islamabad:

In Islamabad, crowds from various parts of the city converged at Zero Point before marching towards the National Press Club.

Speaking to the assembled crowd, PTI MNA Sher Afzal Marwat expressed the people’s determination to reclaim what he called the “stolen mandate.”

Addressing Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz, Marwat asserted, “You will face consequences for your actions with the backing of institutions and against the will of the people.”

He emphasized that by voting for PTI, the nation had sent a clear message of support for Mr. Imran Khan.

Marwat also announced plans for another public gathering in Islamabad on March 30, rallying the attendees to remain prepared to come out whenever needed.

Shoaib Shaheen, who contested elections in Islamabad, criticized the entrenched power of two families in Pakistan over the past four decades. He accused the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) of facilitating these families.

Shaheen expressed confidence that the PTI founder would soon be released and regain the position of Prime Minister.

PTI Protesters Rally in Quetta and Peshawar

In Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur demanded the release of Mr. Khan from prison. He also called for a judicial commission to investigate what he referred to as the “cipher case.”

Other PTI leaders and supporters demanded accountability for bureaucrats who they claimed had manipulated election results, as well as for police officers who allegedly made unlawful arrests of PTI members during the election period.

In Balochistan, PTI activists and supporters, including many women, marched from the party’s provincial office to the Quetta Press Club.

Carrying party insignia and chanting slogans, the demonstrators made their way through the city, expressing their discontent with the ECP’s decisions.

Dawood Shah Kakar, the newly elected provincial president of PTI, addressed the gathering outside the press club. He condemned the ECP for what he described as stripping PTI candidates of their rightful mandate.

Kakar affirmed their commitment to continue protesting until they reclaim what they believe was a “stolen mandate,” alleging that the people had overwhelmingly supported PTI in the elections.

IMF Pakistan backs news for Pakistan, urges resolution of electoral dispute

March 25, 2024March 10, 2024 by Muhammad Talha

The international Monetary Fund (IMF) is willing to help Pakistan create a new plane for its economy if the new government asks for it.
A spokesperson for the IMF mentioned on this Friday. They also emphasized the importance of resolving any disagreement from the elections fairly. This means that if Pakistan’s new government wants assistance in managing its economy better, the IMF is ready to provide guidance and support. It’s all about making sure that Pakistan’s economy can grow and develop in the best way possible.

IMF Pakistan has been having financial problems lately and had quite a rough ride with its February 8th election. The formation of a coalition government was delayed by the elections until Monday, when Shehbaz Sharif became the new Prime Minister. Still, they have not yet chosen a finance minister.

A representative of International Monetary Fund (IMF) welcomed the idea of working together with that new government and said they were willing to assist Pakistan in overcoming its economic challenges. This requires looking at a country’s financial condition and, if need be, helping it to make another blueprint for the economy.

These borrowed words refer to an agreement between Pakistan and IMF last summer worth $3 billion. However, despite this agreement, Pakistan has been facing high inflation rates, currency devaluation as well as reduction in foreign reserves.

Imran Khan, who has recently been imprisoned, his party reached out to the IMF to examine the lawfulness of the polls in February before negotiations on financial help can be conducted with Pakistan government.

The IMF stated that they never get involved in a country’s local politics but what they need is to have peace and justice for any election disputes resolved. The organization believes this is essential for stability and economic progress of a country.

Additionally, their representative said that IMF’s primary objective in working with Pakistan was to assist them overcome their financial difficulties, address chronic economic problems as well as ensuring growth of economy which is inclusive and ensures everyone benefits.