Pakistan

Pakistan, China committed to CPEC with 41 projects in pipeline: FO Spox

Published

3 years ago

June 3, 2021

Editor

ISLAMABAD, June 3 (APP): Pakistan and China have so far completed 19 projects under the umbrella of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), while 28 are under-construction and 41 more in the pipeline.

“Both Pakistan and China remain committed to implementation of CPEC for quality economic growth and enhanced regional connectivity,” the Foreign Office Spokesperson said at a weekly media briefing here at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said the tremendous progress made in the CPEC projects signaled the “shared commitment of Pakistan and China”.

He mentioned that last month, the Rashakai Special Economic Zone under the transformational China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was inaugurated by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Over the past seven years, he said, CPEC projects had created more than 26,000 jobs and boosted local power industry.

In addition, the CPEC motorway projects have created over 50,000 jobs, he added.

The Spokesperson said as the year 2021 marked the 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and China, celebrations continued with a number of events organized in Islamabad and Beijing.

On the two-day official visit of Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon, the Spokesperson said the two sides exchanged views on deepening bilateral cooperation in diverse areas including political, economic, trade, investment, energy, security, defence, culture, education and regional connectivity.

“The visit of the Tajik President is in line with Pakistan’s vision of enhancing strategic partnership with the Central Asian States, for regional connectivity and integration,” he said.

“We believe the visit by President Rahmon, his 8th since 1994, will help further strengthen brotherly ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan,” he said.

A number of Agreements and MoUs in the areas of Education, Trade & Commerce, Anti-Corruption, Prevention of Emergency Situation, Art & Culture and Connectivity were also signed during the visit.

On Palestine, he said while the ceasefire announced on 21st May in the Occupied Palestinian Territories was a welcome development, “we once again reiterate the need for permanent resolution of the Palestine issue”.

“Pakistan believes that a viable, independent and contiguous Palestinian state based on internationally agreed parameters with the pre-1967 borders, and Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital is the only way forward to the Palestine issue,” he said.

The Spokesperson said Pakistan, on behalf of the OIC, had requested to convene a special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), which was held on 27 May.

“The Council’s session led to the adoption of a resolution to establish a standing international Commission of Inquiry (COI) to investigate the human rights violations by Israel,” he added.

The resolution represents global resolve to end systemic impunity and injustice and begin a process of meaningful accountability, he added.

On Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), he said it had been 22 months since the unprecedented military siege, communications blockade and suspension of fundamental freedoms in IIOJK.

The lives and livelihoods of the Kashmiri people have been severely affected in the aftermath of India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5th August 2019, he added.

He said India continues with its design to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory in clear violation of international law, including the 4th Geneva Convention. India has already issued over 3.4 million fake domicile certificates.

The FO Spokesperson said India continued to employ rape, torture, degrading treatment and killings of Kashmiri women as instruments of state terrorism in the occupied territory.

“India’s gross and systematic violations of human rights in the occupied territory and lack of accountability of the perpetrators have been widely documented by a number of independent Commissions, human rights organizations, global media and civil society organizations, including the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR),” he added.

He stressed that the continuing Indian crimes against the Kashmiri people must serve as a solemn reminder to the international community of its collective responsibility to hold India accountable.

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.