Pakistan

Chinese PLA provides COVID-19 vaccine to Pakistan Army

Published

4 years ago

February 7, 2021

Editor

BEIJING, Feb. 7 (APP): The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has delivered a batch of COVID-19 vaccine to the Pakistani military, according to a written statement by China’s Ministry of National Defense here on Sunday.

The statement said that the Pakistani military is the first foreign military to receive the COVID-19 vaccine assistance from the Chinese military.

To realize China’s pledges of making the COVID-19 vaccine as global public goods, and under the request of Pakistani army, the PLA had offered it a batch of COVID-19 vaccines, said the Chinese Ministry of National Defense.

He noted that the Chinese PLA would continue to make contributions to building a global community of health for all.

According to the Global Times, the vaccine offered to Pakistan was produced by Chinese pharmaceutical Sinopharm.

Offering vaccines to the Pakistani military, upon the request, reflected the deep and solid ties between China and Pakistan, said Li Haidong, a professor at the Institute of International Relations of the China Foreign Affairs University, noting that it also reflected the high level of mutual trust.

He said that China first donated vaccines to governments of many developing countries because public was in more urgent need of vaccines than the military.

“Also because the strict management mode within the military, there are far less people infected in the military than among the public,” Li noted.

It is possible that the PLA would continue offering vaccines to more foreign militaries to help their battle against the pandemic, which demonstrated China’s efforts to assist the world to fight the virus in various fields across a wide range, Li stated.

Zhou Bo, former director of the Security Cooperation Center of the Office for International Military Cooperation at China’s Ministry of National Defense, told the Global Times on Sunday said exchanges between militaries were closely linked with their countries’ diplomatic relations.

Last week, the first batch of 500,000 China-assisted COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Pakistan, 10 days after Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi promised Pakistan that China would assist Pakistan with vaccines and accelerated vaccines exports to the country.

In addition to Pakistan, China has provided vaccine assistance to 13 developing countries, including Nepal, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. It also planed to offer assistance to 38 more developing countries, Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at the routine press conference on February 1.

Pakistan

“Through Iqbal’s Words, We Find the Spirit to Soar as One Nation”

Published

1 week ago

November 9, 2024

EDITOR

a poet, philosopher, and politician but also a visionary who planted the seeds of unity, self-respect, and resilience in the hearts of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. Iqbal’s words were the catalysts that motivated people to recognize their potential, unite under a shared purpose, and ultimately pave the way for an independent Pakistan. His poetry and philosophy still resonate, reminding us of the values we hold dear and the power of unity, faith, and discipline in overcoming challenges.

Iqbal’s Philosophy: A Call to Selfhood and Unity

Iqbal was deeply influenced by the concept of “Khudi,” or selfhood, which he introduced as an idea of recognizing and cultivating the inner strength within each individual. He encouraged Muslims to develop their personal and spiritual strength, advocating for a life driven by purpose and unwavering resolve. For Iqbal, the idea of “Khudi” was not merely about individual development but about understanding that one’s personal strength contributes to the strength of the entire nation.

He also emphasized unity, which he saw as an essential component for the progress and survival of any community. Iqbal believed that unity was the bedrock upon which a nation could stand strong, and he used his poetry to inspire a collective identity that transcended individual differences. His call to unity was not just for the Muslims of India but for all who valued justice, peace, and a meaningful life.

The Message of Faith and Discipline

Iqbal’s poetry speaks powerfully about faith—faith in God, in oneself, and in the potential of a unified community. His famous verse, Sitaron se aage jahan aur bhi hain, abhi ishq ke imtihan aur bhi hain (There are worlds beyond the stars, and many more tests of love to come), exemplifies his belief that faith could elevate one’s spirit to new heights. Iqbal saw faith as an energizing force that could help people transcend their limitations, reach their aspirations, and maintain hope in the face of adversity.

For Iqbal, discipline was the natural partner of faith. He believed that true faith must be complemented by discipline to channel energy into productive efforts. In his view, a disciplined nation, united in its principles, would have the resilience to face any challenge, no matter how overwhelming.

Inspiring Pakistan’s Youth: Iqbal’s Enduring Legacy

Iqbal’s influence extends beyond his lifetime, continuing to inspire generations. His poetry and philosophy encourage today’s youth to take pride in their heritage, recognize their potential, and work for a prosperous future. Pakistan’s youth, often regarded as the nation’s greatest asset, can find guidance in Iqbal’s call for unity, faith, and discipline. In a world filled with distractions, his message remains clear: true progress lies in developing oneself and working together for the greater good.

Unity in Diversity: Building a Nation

Iqbal’s vision of Pakistan was one where people, regardless of ethnic or linguistic background, would come together as one. His poetry remains a symbol of this unity, speaking of brotherhood and harmony. He knew that for Pakistan to succeed, its people would have to put aside their differences and focus on a shared goal. This vision is especially relevant today, as a diverse Pakistan works toward the common ideals that Iqbal cherished.

Conclusion: Soaring Together as One Nation

Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood, unity, faith, and discipline is a timeless message. His words urge us to become better versions of ourselves and to use our strengths to build a stronger, more united Pakistan. By embracing his teachings, we can truly embody the spirit that drives a nation forward. As Pakistan continues to face challenges, Iqbal’s words serve as a reminder that by standing together with a shared vision, Pakistan can not only overcome any adversity but also soar to greater heights.