ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):The Supreme Court on Friday adjourned the hearing of the petitions pertaining to trial of May 9 riots accused in military courts till June 26 (Monday).

A seven-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Munib Akhter, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Mazahar Ali Naqvi and Justice Ayesha Malik heard the petitions.

At the outset of hearing, the chief justice remarked that it was a wrong perception that a civilian could never be tried in army court. A civilian could be tried in army courts if he was accused of instigating army personnel against institution for sedition

He, however, said the procedure adopted to bring the accused of May 9 incidents in the jurisdiction of army courts would have to be viewed. It would also be viewed that on which grounds the anti-terrorism courts allowed to shift the trials, he added.

The chief justice observed that it was understood that the institution would identify the crimes under the Official Secret Act and it could file the request to the ATCs for the custody of civilian accused.

CJP Bandial said harassing the legal fraternity was not legal and also asked the Attorney General for Pakistan that what was the policy of government about journalists. He asked the AGP to contact the acting provincial governments and took their stance about the lawyers and journalists.

The role of lawyers and journalists was essential for the self-confidence of the society, he added.

AGP Mansoor Usman Awan said that no any accused was in the custody of Islamabad Police regarding the May 9 incidents, while four persons were in the custody of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police. About 41 persons were arrested in Punjab under MPO and 141 were taken in custody under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA).

A total of 81 women were arrested in Punjab, out of which 42 had been released, he added.

The AGP said 172 accused were in the judicial custody in Sindh, and 70 of them got bails. Some 117 persons were arrested in Sindh under 3-MPO and 102 were in army’s custody. No woman, child, lawyer or journalist was in military custody in connection with the incidents of May 9 and 10, he added.

Mansoor Awan said the Federal Government had a clear stance that no journalist or lawyer would be arrested for May 9 riots and no action would be taken against any innocent person too.

The CJP remarked that the court would neither take a suo-motu action nor it would pass a judicial order but it was noting everything.

Earlier, Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan observed that a reference could be sent to the Federal Government if the custody of a civilian was required to the institution as per law and then former would take a decision in the matter.

He said the top court had declared in the 21th Constitutional Amendment case that army courts were set up for certain circumstances like war situation.

The basic rights of army personnel would be suspended under the Army Act but the civilians would have protection under basic human rights in every condition, he added.

Justice Mansoor Ali Shah said trial under the Official Secrets Act would be conducted only when there was a matter of national security. When and how the civilian accused had violated the OSA and under what law the arrests had been made, he asked.

He remarked that the Constitution did not allow the court to view the Army Act then how it could take a decision about it.

Justice Mazahar Ali Naqvi asked that how the commanding officer could request the custody of a civilian accused. He noted that the sections of OSA were not applied as per the crime report produced before the bench and asked that when those sections were added in cases after May 9.

Justice Ayesha Malik asked on which grounds civilian accused were being tried under the Army Act and how it used to be decided that a case would be registered under the Army Act or the OSA. She asked the counsel of the civil society Faisal Saddiqui that what were the extraordinary situations under which the trial of civilian accused could be conducted by army courts. The question was that if the crime of the accused fell in jurisdiction of OSA or not, she said.

Justice Ayesha Malik said the magistrate concerned could not grant custody of an accused on the request of someone.

Petitioner Jawad S. Khawaja’s counsel also prayed the court to form a larger bench into the matter if there were solid reasons for that.

Khawaja Ahmed Hussain Advocate said the trial of civilians in army courts was an illegal act as it would affect the rights of accused given under Articles 9, 10 and 25. Only in extraordinary situations civilians were tried in military courts in the United States and Britain, he added.

The counsel for the civil society Faisal Saddiqui also gave arguments earlier in this case.

The court adjourned further hearing of the case till coming Monday. The chief justice said that the bench wanted to conclude the case till coming Tuesday. He asked Salman Akram Raja to give arguments in the case on next hearing.

ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP): Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar Friday said the significance of June 24 as the ‘International Day of Women in Diplomacy’ was self-evident, symbolizing global recognition and admiration for women’s accomplishments in the diplomatic realm.

She made these remarks in a message delivered at a roundtable discussion to mark the ‘International Day of Women Diplomacy’ here on Friday by the Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).

The minister said, having the great honour of being the first woman Foreign Minister of Pakistan, this Day held great meaning and significance for her personally.

“It both brings satisfaction and strengthens our resolve to continue to do more. Nations proudly showcase their progress in appointing more women in diplomatic roles, deserving commendation for tangible advancements,” she said adding Pakistan had made notable strides despite socio-economic challenges, with women achieving prominent positions, including a woman Prime Minister and a young Nobel Prize laureate.
“While celebrating, we must also acknowledge remaining challenges and work together for a future of equal opportunities, amplifying women’s voices and utilizing their expertise in peace-making, peacebuilding, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

The discussion was chaired by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI. Participants included: ambassador Tehmina Janjua, Former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan; Nyambura Kamau, High Commissioner of Kenya to Pakistan; Dr. Noor Khan, Minister Counsellor/Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Norway in Islamabad; Ms. Alice Courlander, Second Secretary at the British High Commission in Islamabad; Ambassador Nadeem Riyaz, President IRS; Ambassador Shah Jamal, Former Ambassador to Iraq; Ambassador Fauzia Nasreen, Former Ambassador to Poland; Ambassador Riffat Masood, Former Ambassador to Iran, Dr. Shabana Fayyaz, Professor, QAU; Dr. Salma Malik, Associate Professor, QAU; Ms. Iqra Ashraf, Director Spokesperson Office/StratCom, MoFA; and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman, BoG, ISSI.

Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director of CSP, and the research team of ISSI were also present.

In her introductory remarks, Dr. Neelum Nigar said that celebrating this important day today served as a powerful reminder of the significant contributions women have made and continue to make in the field of diplomacy. It provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on the achievements, challenges, and aspirations of women diplomats worldwide.

In his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood stated that the UNGA resolution of 20 June 2022 that proclaimed 24 June to be the ‘International Day of Women in Diplomacy’ calls upon member states to observe this Day annually, promoting women’s equal participation in diplomacy through education and awareness-raising activities. He added that the field of diplomacy, traditionally male-dominated, is undergoing positive transformation with the number of women diplomats increasing sharply. Some countries have achieved gender parity, while others are progressing. Pakistan has made significant strides in the past two decades, appointing its first women Foreign Minister, Foreign Secretary, and Spokesperson. The Foreign Ministry has also seen a notable increase in the recruitment of women diplomats. Ensuring women’s meaningful and effective participation in diplomacy and their rise to leadership/decision-making levels remains crucial. While acknowledging women’s achievements, we must also recognize the continuing challenges. Commemorating this Day is both a celebration of the achievements as well as an occasion to reaffirm the commitment to do more.

In her remarks, ambassador Tehmina Janjua, who has had the distinction of being the first woman Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, emphasized that women constitute a crucial component of strategic perspectives.

The United Nations deserves praise for its commitment to commemorating this significant Day. When discussing women in diplomacy, three essential aspects come to light: firstly, it is imperative to address the levels at which women participate in decision-making within diplomacy and dismantle the barriers that hinder their progress; secondly, the distinctive approach that women bring to diplomacy, introducing fresh perspectives that warrant recognition and appreciation; and thirdly, careful consideration of how gender is utilized in diplomacy, acknowledging its potential positive impacts while guarding against its misuse for self-serving purposes.

High Commissioner Kamau, in her remarks, said that celebrating women in diplomacy acknowledges the progress that has been made while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done. It encourages thoughtful consideration of the obstacles faced by women in this realm, igniting initiatives aimed at overcoming barriers and promoting gender equality.

In her elaboration about the Kenyan foreign service, the High Commissioner highlighted the significant strides made by women over the past decade. Women in the Kenyan foreign service have witnessed positive developments and improvements. They bring specific advantages to negotiations that enhance their effectiveness in diplomatic endeavors.

However, women engaged in diplomacy encounter the challenge of finding a delicate balance between their professional careers and family obligations. This delicate balance often poses obstacles that can impede their overall progress and advancement in the field.

During the interactive session, the other participating diplomats and academics shared their experiences and perspectives with regard to women’s role in the field of diplomacy. Ambassador Fauzia Nasreen noted that the civil service reforms of 1972 opened the way for Pakistani women to enter the foreign service. She herself went on to become the first-ever career foreign service officer rising to the level of ambassador.

Dr. Salma Malik underscored the substantial impact of women diplomats in diverse arenas, surpassing barriers to effectively engage in diplomatic and security issues. She emphasized their ability to overcome obstacles, challenge traditional norms, and make significant contributions in areas traditionally dominated by men including dealing with and writing on strategic issues.

Ms. Alice spoke about the advancements made by women diplomats in the United Kingdom, highlighting their remarkable contributions particularly over the past two decades. She recognized the significant role that women diplomats have played in shaping UK’s diplomatic landscape, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the fore. Their tireless efforts and groundbreaking accomplishments have paved the way for greater gender equality and inclusive in the field of diplomacy.

Ambassador Riffat Masood shared her views and highlighted the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of women diplomats, as their diverse experiences and approaches contribute to more comprehensive and holistic decision-making processes.

Iqra Ashraf and Dr. Noor Khan, both young diplomats, acknowledged and highlighted the pioneering contributions of their senior colleagues, expressing gratitude for how these trailblazers have paved the way and made their own journeys in diplomacy more accessible and smooth. They recognized the invaluable guidance, mentorship, and support received from their experienced counterparts, which had helped them navigate the challenges and opportunities of the diplomatic field.

Dr. Shabana Fayyaz expressed appreciation for the ISSI in providing a platform that facilitated interface between women diplomats and academics focused on gender studies, recognizing the value of bringing together practitioners and scholars in a meaningful dialogue. While suggesting that the Institute should consider making it a regular feature, Dr. Fayyaz proposed the establishment of a dedicated women’s desk at the Foreign Ministry, which would serve as a place for exchange of ideas, experiences and dialogues relating to gender parity and enhanced participation of women in diplomacy.

The roundtable discussion was concluded with remarks by Chairman BoG, ISSI, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood.

ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar Friday said the significance of June 24 as the 'International Day of Women in Diplomacy' was self-evident, symbolizing global recognition and admiration for women's accomplishments in the diplomatic realm.

She made these remarks in a message delivered at a roundtable discussion to mark the ‘International Day of Women Diplomacy’ here on Friday by the Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
The minister said, having the great honour of being the first woman Foreign Minister of Pakistan, this Day held great meaning and significance for her personally.

“It both brings satisfaction and strengthens our resolve to continue to do more. Nations proudly showcase their progress in appointing more women in diplomatic roles, deserving commendation for tangible advancements,” she said adding Pakistan had made notable strides despite socio-economic challenges, with women achieving prominent positions, including a woman Prime Minister and a young Nobel Prize laureate.
“While celebrating, we must also acknowledge remaining challenges and work together for a future of equal opportunities, amplifying women’s voices and utilizing their expertise in peace-making, peacebuilding, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

The discussion was chaired by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI. Participants included: ambassador Tehmina Janjua, Former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan; Nyambura Kamau, High Commissioner of Kenya to Pakistan; Dr. Noor Khan, Minister Counsellor/Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Norway in Islamabad; Ms. Alice Courlander, Second Secretary at the British High Commission in Islamabad; Ambassador Nadeem Riyaz, President IRS; Ambassador Shah Jamal, Former Ambassador to Iraq; Ambassador Fauzia Nasreen, Former Ambassador to Poland; Ambassador Riffat Masood, Former Ambassador to Iran, Dr. Shabana Fayyaz, Professor, QAU; Dr. Salma Malik, Associate Professor, QAU; Ms. Iqra Ashraf, Director Spokesperson Office/StratCom, MoFA; and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman, BoG, ISSI.

Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director of CSP, and the research team of ISSI were also present.

In her introductory remarks, Dr. Neelum Nigar said that celebrating this important day today served as a powerful reminder of the significant contributions women have made and continue to make in the field of diplomacy. It provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on the achievements, challenges, and aspirations of women diplomats worldwide.

In his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood stated that the UNGA resolution of 20 June 2022 that proclaimed 24 June to be the ‘International Day of Women in Diplomacy’ calls upon member states to observe this Day annually, promoting women’s equal participation in diplomacy through education and awareness-raising activities. He added that the field of diplomacy, traditionally male-dominated, is undergoing positive transformation with the number of women diplomats increasing sharply. Some countries have achieved gender parity, while others are progressing. Pakistan has made significant strides in the past two decades, appointing its first women Foreign Minister, Foreign Secretary, and Spokesperson. The Foreign Ministry has also seen a notable increase in the recruitment of women diplomats. Ensuring women’s meaningful and effective participation in diplomacy and their rise to leadership/decision-making levels remains crucial. While acknowledging women’s achievements, we must also recognize the continuing challenges. Commemorating this Day is both a celebration of the achievements as well as an occasion to reaffirm the commitment to do more.

In her remarks, ambassador Tehmina Janjua, who has had the distinction of being the first woman Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, emphasized that women constitute a crucial component of strategic perspectives. The United Nations deserves praise for its commitment to commemorating this significant Day. When discussing women in diplomacy, three essential aspects come to light: firstly, it is imperative to address the levels at which women participate in decision-making within diplomacy and dismantle the barriers that hinder their progress; secondly, the distinctive approach that women bring to diplomacy, introducing fresh perspectives that warrant recognition and appreciation; and thirdly, careful consideration of how gender is utilized in diplomacy, acknowledging its potential positive impacts while guarding against its misuse for self-serving purposes.

High Commissioner Kamau, in her remarks, said that celebrating women in diplomacy acknowledges the progress that has been made while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done. It encourages thoughtful consideration of the obstacles faced by women in this realm, igniting initiatives aimed at overcoming barriers and promoting gender equality. In her elaboration about the Kenyan foreign service, the High Commissioner highlighted the significant strides made by women over the past decade. Women in the Kenyan foreign service have witnessed positive developments and improvements. They bring specific advantages to negotiations that enhance their effectiveness in diplomatic endeavors. However, women engaged in diplomacy encounter the challenge of finding a delicate balance between their professional careers and family obligations. This delicate balance often poses obstacles that can impede their overall progress and advancement in the field.

During the interactive session, the other participating diplomats and academics shared their experiences and perspectives with regard to women’s role in the field of diplomacy. Ambassador Fauzia Nasreen noted that the civil service reforms of 1972 opened the way for Pakistani women to enter the foreign service. She herself went on to become the first-ever career foreign service officer rising to the level of ambassador.

Dr. Salma Malik underscored the substantial impact of women diplomats in diverse arenas, surpassing barriers to effectively engage in diplomatic and security issues. She emphasized their ability to overcome obstacles, challenge traditional norms, and make significant contributions in areas traditionally dominated by men including dealing with and writing on strategic issues.

Ms. Alice spoke about the advancements made by women diplomats in the United Kingdom, highlighting their remarkable contributions particularly over the past two decades. She recognized the significant role that women diplomats have played in shaping UK’s diplomatic landscape, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the fore. Their tireless efforts and groundbreaking accomplishments have paved the way for greater gender equality and inclusivity in the field of diplomacy.

Ambassador Riffat Masood shared her views and highlighted the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of women diplomats, as their diverse experiences and approaches contribute to more comprehensive and holistic decision-making processes.

Iqra Ashraf and Dr. Noor Khan, both young diplomats, acknowledged and highlighted the pioneering contributions of their senior colleagues, expressing gratitude for how these trailblazers have paved the way and made their own journeys in diplomacy more accessible and smooth. They recognized the invaluable guidance, mentorship, and support received from their experienced counterparts, which had helped them navigate the challenges and opportunities of the diplomatic field.

Dr. Shabana Fayyaz expressed appreciation for the ISSI in providing a platform that facilitated interface between women diplomats and academics focused on gender studies, recognizing the value of bringing together practitioners and scholars in a meaningful dialogue. While suggesting that the Institute should consider making it a regular feature, Dr. Fayyaz proposed the establishment of a dedicated women’s desk at the Foreign Ministry, which would serve as a place for exchange of ideas, experiences and dialogues relating to gender parity and enhanced participation of women in diplomacy.

The roundtable discussion was concluded with remarks by Chairman BoG, ISSI, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood.

ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday stressed that collective efforts were needed by the world powers to root out the menace of terrorism, which had affected Pakistan the most.

Speaking in the National Assembly, he said being a global issue, terrorism should not be seen through the prism of geopolitics.

The foreign minister regretted that after the fall of Kabul, the world powers had shifted their focus to the Ukraine conflict and the menace of terrorism remained unaddressed.

Pakistan, he added, suffered the most from terrorism as it had lost more people than the rest of the world in the fight against terror.

Exterminating terrorism and extremism was in the interest of Pakistan itself as it was the key to peace, stability and prosperity, he added.

Bilawal said first of all there was the need to bring political stability in Pakistan and then the focus should be shifted to further enhancing bilateral relations and forging partnerships with other countries, including the United States.

He said the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman himself pushed his party into a blind alley following the May 9 vandalism of military installations and martyrs’ memorials due to his rigidness.

He said time and again the PTI chief was asked from the parliamentary forums to announce his disassociation from the May 9 incidents but he paid no heed and consequently his party was today in trouble. Those involved in attacking the military installations and the memorials of martyrs did not deserve any leniency, he added.

Bilawal said on May 9, the PTI protesters attacked the Jinnah House, military installations, the General Headquarters, and the monuments of martyrs.

Had such attacks been carried out in the US, the United Kingdom or any other country, their perpetrators would not have spared in the name of democracy, he remarked.

He said there was no politics, rather the May 9 incidents were acts terrorism. “The Pakistan Peoples Party will never defend those who had attacked the military installations, sensitive places and memorials of martyrs,” he added.

The minister said there were provisions in the law that those involved in such heinous acts could be tried in the military courts, and it was also the responsibility of the parliament, government and judiciary to establish the writ of the state at every cost.

Bilawal said all the social media accounts of the former US president [Donald Trump] were closed after his supporters attacked the Congress, the legislature of the federal government of the United States.

He regretted that the so-called popular politician [PTI chief] also adopted the same strategy, violated the Constitution and attempted to defeat the no-confidence motion moved by the joint opposition in the National Assembly against him in March 2022.

On May 25, 2022, he said, the PTI launched an attack on the Federal Capital, after its chief’s ouster from the Prime Minister House through a democratic and constitutional way of no-confidence motion, in the name of long march and set Islamabad on fire; besides hatching a conspiracy against the ongoing programme of International Monetary Fund (IMF).

At that time, he recalled, that the finance ministers of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were also involved in the conspiracy that was also proven by their leaked telephonic conversation.

He said in order to bring political stability to the country, the incoming government and the opposition [after the next general elections] would have to play a responsible role while sticking to the Charter of Democracy, signed by the top leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in 2006.

The minister stressed the need for devising a comprehensive road map for achieving political and economic stabilityby engaging the reconcilable opposition members.

He thanked Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar for allocating funds in the budget for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the flood-affected areas; and mobilizing the available resources for instant rescue and relief of the people facing the brunt of the widespread destruction caused by the heavy rains and floods in 2022.

ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):Pakistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan Asif Durrani called on Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari here on Friday and discussed matters of mutual respect.

They reviewed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan.

The foreign minister reiterated Pakistan’s desire to build close co-operative relations with Kabul.

He urged expeditious completion of flagship projects initiated by Pakistan and Afghanistan.

ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):Ambassador of Iran Reza Amiri Moghaddam called on Minister for Foreign Affairs Bilawal Bhutto Zardari here on Friday and exchanged matters of mutual interest.

The foreign minister congratulated Dr. Moghadam on his appointment as ambassador of Iran in Pakistan.

He expressed satisfaction at positive trajectory of relations of Pakistan and Iran. He emphasized importance of high-level exchanges between the two countries.