ISLAMABAD: June 08 –
Mr. Justice Qazi Faez Isa, The Hon’ble Chief Justice Of Pakistan / Chairman Law And Justice Commission Of Pakistan addressing the participants of “Navigating Climate Governance: Executive Action And Judicial Oversight Climate Change Conference”, at Supreme Court Of Pakistan.
ISLAMABAD: June 08 –
Federal Minister for Communications, Privatization and Investment Board, Abdul Aleem Khan presiding a high level meeting with the officials of Chinese Business Group.
BEIJING: June 08 –
Tent Peggers aiming their targets during the 12 Tent Pegging Competition organized by CDA at F-9 Park.
ISLAMABAD: June 08 –
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ISLAMABAD: June 08 – Tent Peggers performing their skills during the 12 Tent Pegging Competition organized by CDA at F-9 Park.
ISLAMABAD: June 08 – A tent pegger aiming his target during the 12 Tent Pegging Competition organized by CDA at F-9 Park.
ISLAMABAD: June 08 – A tent pegger aiming his target during the 12 Tent Pegging Competition organized by CDA at F-9 Park.
APP51-080624
ISLAMABAD: June 08 – KPK Governor Faisal Karim Kundi talking to media during the 12 Tent Pegging Competition organized by CDA at F-9 Park.
Climate Change conference: CJP emphasizes adoption of eco-friendly measures
ISLAMABAD, Jun 08 (APP): Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa on Saturday emphasized the need for adopting environment friendly measures and a healthy lifestyle to cope with the prevailing climate-related challenges.
The Law & Justice Commission of Pakistan hosted a conference titled ‘Conference on Climate Change: Navigating Climate Governance: Executive Action and Judicial Oversight’ in the building of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. The Conference was graced by Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa and also attended by members of the Judiciary, diplomats, representatives of international organizations, lawyers, media and civil society.
Addressing the conference the chief justice said that whenever we consult doctors, they advise us to stop smoking and do walk.
He said that a rise in the human body’s temperature indicates illness. Similarly, today earth is also facing ailment like a fever as it was absorbing a lot of smoke into it, he said. The chief justice highlighted that that plastic products were being manufactured across the world but we lacked a solid mechanism to dispose of it.
The CJP emphasized on returning to a healthy lifestyle which is close to nature, adding that every physician is now advising people to prefer eating vegetables instead of meat.
The earth is sick, ill and telling us its condition and on the other hand the world is emitting a lot of smoke, he said.
Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa said that earth is a living organism but unfortunately it was not treated that way. The spiritual crisis is also the cause of climate crisis, he said, adding that wastage is a sin in the religion of Islam.
He said that we are depleting natural resources and diminishing ourselves. He emphasized to bring change in our behaviors to conserve environment by reducing reliance on fuel intensive for travels and activities. Science can guide mankind beyond horizons, the chief justice maintained.
He said that we need to walk. Bicycles can be provided to all judges if they want, suggested CJP.
The natural environment can be saved from further destruction by avoiding wastage of resources, he said.
He said that Pakistan has been facing severe impacts of climate change like devastating floods, flash droughts, scarcity of water resources and excessive heat despite the country’s total contribution to the global emissions being less than 1%.
SC’s Senior Puisne Judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah said that climate change deeply affecting our societies and marginalized communities. The Pakistan made global headlines after millions of people effected due to 2022 floods, which also caused a financial loss worth $15 billion.
He said that Pakistan fifth most vulnerable country due to climate change and Pakistan is a 15th most water stressed country. The 26 districts in Punjab have faced extreme heat waves and 15% increase water scarcity, he added.
Justice Shah said that the climate change has increased health risk, induced migration and displacement. It also developed food and energy security in the region.
He said that climate change intricately linked to human rights , increases intensity and frequency of disaster and aggravates air quality and infectious diseases.
Marginalized groups are having less access to healthcare facilities and also losing their family heritage which was irreplaceable, he said.
He said that it wants inclusive climate policies and ensure of rights and justice to the people. But it’s not possible without climate finance which is not an aid but the right to ensure climate resilience. The COP-28 also demanded parties to join funds to support developing nations for this, he said.
It demands executive and judiciary to come together to address multidisciplinary challenge that should be addressed by legislature, executive, judiciary to holistically assess the existential threat.
Secretary Law and Justice Commission Riffat Inam Butt said that Pakistan is facing adverse effects of climate change. We as policy makers and legislators and civil society will have to come up with effective governance strategy. The climate disruptions could displace up-to 200 million people by 2030.
Glacial Lake Outburst (GLOF) is forcing 3 million people from homes and numerous fatalities are demanding effective strategies, she said, adding that Climate change is not an environmental but human rights issue.
Oinic lights up Times Square’ in support of Pakistan for T20 World Cup 2024
ISLAMABAD, Jun 08 (APP): onic, Pakistan’s leading digital telco brand announced its unwavering support for the Pakistani cricket team in their highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2024 match against India.
In a bold and symbolic gesture, onic showcased a powerful montage at One Times Square, New York, to rally behind the team said a news release.
Last year, our resilient Pakistani team stood alone in a sea of blue, with Indian supporters vastly outnumbering ours. This year, onic is determined to change that narrative by lighting up One Times Square with our message of solidarity and pride, demonstrating that our team is never alone, regardless of the match’s outcome.
“This initiative highlights our commitment to standing by the Pakistani cricket team through every high and low,” said Omer Bin Tariq– General Manager, onic. “By illuminating one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, we aim to send a powerful message of unity and support that transcends borders.”
The montage, premiered on June 8, 2024, a day before the match, features a visually stunning display celebrating the Pakistani spirit, symbolizing unity and strength. Displaying this montage in the heart of New York City, where cultures converge, symbolizes our collective strength and national pride.
onic’s support extends beyond the realm of sports, aiming to foster a narrative of national pride and community spirit. This event is designed not just as a display of support but as a testament to the enduring bond between the team and its supporters.
We invite all cricket enthusiasts to join this celebration no matter where they are. Together, let’s create a wave of green that echoes around the world, showcasing our unyielding support for the Pakistani cricket team. Share your support with the hashtag #SarUthaHaraa. For more information, follow onic on social media or visit our website at www.onic.pk.
Nawaz slams PTI government policies for record-high inflation
MURREE, Jun 08 (APP): Nawaz Sharif, President of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N)on Saturday condemned the policies of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government for driving inflation to record highs, significantly harming the livelihoods of Pakistan’s poor, and undermining democracy
Addressing PML-N parliamentary meeting in Murree, Nawaz Sharif asked PTI founder Imran Khan not to blame PML-N for damaging democracy, emphasizing that his party was not responsible for that.
Nawaz Sharif stated that he is not someone who holds onto malice, enmity, or seeks revenge against others.
The PML-N president mentioned being threatened to have his prison cell’s AC removed during Khan’s tenure but emphasized he doesn’t believe in political vengeance. He added that he hasn’t dwelled on it, noting Khan’s current incarceration.
Without taking Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s name, Nawaz said he always behaved like an angry man.
The former three-time prime minister called for an investigation into the actions of individuals throughout the country’s history. He referred to the Charter of Democracy (CoD) signed with former premier Benazir Bhutto of the PPP, emphasizing that both parties had agreed to uphold democratic principles and honor the people’s mandate, which he described as integral to the essence of democracy.
Nawaz commended the federal and Punjab governments led by Shehbaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz for achieving a significant reduction in inflation.
He emphasized the importance of lowering energy tariffs and highlighted Punjab Chief Minister Maryam’s role in reducing flour prices, noting a consistent decrease in food costs.
Nawaz praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for diligently striving to provide relief to the masses, emphasizing this as a primary goal of the ruling PML-N.
Reflecting on his tenure, he remembered leaving the government after resolving power outages and significantly reducing electricity tariffs.
Nawaz also admired Shahid Khaqan Abbasi as a remarkable individual who showed courage during imprisonment and steadfastly supported him through challenging times.
PM’s China visit vital for economic revamp: Dr Rehman
ISLAMABAD, Jun 8 (APP): Executive Director of the Pakistan Council on China, Dr Fazlur Rehman, said on Saturday that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China comes at a crucial time for Pakistan.
Speaking to Pakistan Television News, he highlighted the importance of this visit in the context of Pakistan’s need to revamp its economy and advance the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
He noted that the prime minister has shown a strong resolve to expedite the second phase of CPEC and ensure its effective implementation.
The focus on new areas being introduced in this phase was also a significant aspect of the visit, he added.
He remarked on the positive developments during the visit, including the signing of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and China’s reaffirmed commitment to support Pakistan’s economic stability.
Dr. Rehman expressed confidence that the outcomes of this visit would be significant and immediate, adding that the visit would prove to be a milestone in the development of Pakistan-China relations.
China’s interest in investing in Pakistan was expected to boost overall productivity, increase exports, and enhance foreign exchange, he added.
Dr. Rehman pointed out that China’s advanced technology in the mining and agriculture sectors, along with their expertise in machinery and special seed production, would greatly benefit Pakistan.
The transfer of this technology and expertise will provide significant opportunities for Pakistan to enhance its own capabilities.
“This visit creates good opportunities for us, and we must take full advantage of this,” he added.
Kundi vows to utilize resources for KPK’s betterment
ISLAMABAD, Jun 08 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, has reiterated his commitment to utilizing all resources for the betterment of the province.
Speaking to media at the three-day 12th Tent Pegging Championship here at the F9 Park, he emphasized the need for improved sports facilities and empowerment of youth and women. Former Deputy Mayor Islamabad Zeeshan Naqvi was also present on this occasion.
I have come here for the Tent Pegging Championship for the second time, Kundi said and noted that 65% of the population consists of youth, who require opportunities for growth and development.
He expressed concern over the lack of sports fields in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, despite the province producing half of the national cricket team and plans to hold tournaments and promote traditional sports, with a focus on youth and women empowerment.
There are very few sports fields in our province. Whether its cricket, hockey, tent pegging or boxing competitions, our young generation should be involved in sports to promote positive and healthy activities, he said.
We will work on youth and women empowerment, promote traditional sports. We are also going to hold Tent Pegging event in Peshawar soon, he said.
He also addressed the issue of political recruitments in universities, which he believes has affected their performance.
The Governor urged KPK Chief Minister to engage in constructive dialogue and debate, rather than relying on rhetoric. He also offered KPK Chief Minister to engage in a televised debate with him on any channel of his choice, expressing confidence that the challenge would not be accepted by the CM. KPK of social media is different while the real province is poles apart, he said.
Kundi criticized the lack of investment in universities, highlighting that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had allocated only three billion rupees for universities, compared to six billion by Punjab and twenty billion by Sindh.
The cricket stadium being constructed since 2017 was still deserted while there was no cricket matches for 15 years, he said.
He also expressed concern over the absence of Vice Chancellors in 26 universities and the illegal appointment of Acting Vice-Chancellors.
He said that I wrote a letter to the Chief Minister that 26 universities do not have Vice Chancellors, the Chief Minister should work on it. The CM appointed six Acting Vice-Chancellors and that too illegally, he said.
I want to tell the Apex court that the lawyers representing the province has made false
statements in the case regarding writing the summary of Vice Chancellors to me. I have not received the summary of any Vice Chancellor till date, but whenever it comes, I will not delay in signing it, he said.
The Governor emphasized his commitment to education and vowed to work with integrity to address these issues.
Kundi reiterated his dedication to the betterment of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue, improved sports facilities, and empowerment of youth and women.
Meanwhile coming to the Tent Pegging Championship, as many as 1200 players from 300 teams are featuring in the mega event.
UN calls on world to come together in protecting oceans
UNITED NATIONS, Jun 08 (APP): UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday called for a collective effort among governments, businesses, investors, scientists, and communities “to defend our oceans,” as the world body celebrated World Oceans Day at UN Headquarters in New York.
The activities marking the Day focused on “opening minds, igniting senses, and inspiring possibilities” to protect marine life worldwide.
A powerful video was shown echoing the theme, awaken new depths, warning of immediate protection needs and cautioning that there is no time for an “out of sight out of mind” sense of complacency.
In a statement marking the occasion – which falls on Saturday – UN chief also said the ocean sustains life on Earth and the problems are essentially man-made.
“Climate change is triggering rising seas and threatening the very existence of small island developing states and coastal populations”, he said.
Guterres also mentioned that ocean acidification is destroying coral reefs, with sea temperatures reaching record levels leading to extreme weather events. Overfishing and other factors are contributing to the destruction of the world’s marine ecosystems.
The President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, attended the event and voiced similar concerns about the current state of the ocean.
“There is so much still to learn about oceans – and, importantly, to reverse the damage being caused to our precious lifeline resource.”
Francis said that the ocean is our strongest ally against climate change and therefore “it is our joint responsibility to course correct – and recommit to sustainably manage the ocean’s precious resources – so as to ensure their availability intergenerationally.”
The Secretary-General and General Assembly President said they are expecting reflections on and actions toward ways to restore and protect our oceans as the Summit of the Future in September 2024 and next year’s UN Oceans Conference approach.
The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) released a State of the Ocean report earlier in the week pushing policymakers to think about “the ocean we need for the future we want.”
The report detailed threats to the ocean and trends that could help identify drivers of change.
It warned that the rate of ocean warming has doubled in 20 years and that coastal species are suffocating due to decreased oxygen levels in the ocean, among other things.
One of its conclusions is that “ocean literacy practice and research is a strategic ally to optimize resources, accelerate behavioural change and improve the implementation of ocean conservation programmes and sustainability practices.”
Speakers at at an event in UN Headquarters on Friday included marine biologist and oceanographer Sylvia Earle, who said finding ways to share the importance of protecting our ocean with the world can lead to vital action to also preserve coastal wildlife.
“Now is the time for governments, businesses, investors, scientists and communities to come together in defence of our ocean,” UN Secretary-General Guterres said.
In a similar call to action, General Assembly President Francis said we should “redouble our efforts to support and advance ocean action, build much-needed capacity in [small island developing states]and other developing countries – and promote innovative financing solutions that drive transformation and scale up resilience.”
Indigenous climate technology, improved water governance to help enhance resilience: Experts
ISLAMABAD, Jun 08 (APP): The experts on Saturday said the country needed to utilize the indigenous technology resting at the shelves of its research departments alongwith improved governance would help enhance climate resilience amid growing environmental crises.
The panelists during panel discussion titled “Climate Change Challenges for Pakistan” during the climate change conference titled “Navigating Climate Governance: Executive Action and Judicial Oversight” organised by the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan here at the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Chairing the panel discussion, Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Chair Loss and Damage Fund Asia Pacific Group said dignity, equity and justice were the guiding terms that needed to preserve the country’s diverse ecosystem spanning from mountains to coastal areas.
Sheikh said Pakistan has one of the diverse ecosystems intricately connected with each other and the risks and problems emanating from it were impacting the nation directly or indirectly due to environmental degradation.
Dean Geosciences, University of Punjab, Dr Sajid Rashid Ahmed said before 2015 there was no discussion on air pollution as there was no smog onset. However, China, and the US during 18th and 19th centuries were facing smog issues but they ultimately developed solutions to overcome the problem.
He added that the smog issue in Punjab was not limited to transport sector but rather included farmers, industries and the communities’ behaviour driving air pollution which had become an individual issue.
Chairperson Hisaar Foundation, Simi Kamal said the colonial era reforms replaced the local traditional water and crop distribution practices that resulted in current injustice and climate crises. “Water needs to be taken holistically as a source of development, dignity, equality and justice,” she added.
VC University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Dr Iqrar Ahmed Khan said one million acre feet (MAF) water could be transformed into one billion dollar GDP whereas this ratio was halved in our context due to weak governance and uneven water distribution, no land reforms and water wastage.
He mentioned that two crops, wheat and rice, were eating 75% water and were water inefficient crops, whereas wheat had a political economy that needed to be replaced to promote crop diversity among farmers.
“The technology resting on the shelves is sufficient to achieve climate resilient agriculture. The lack of trust of investor is impeding the endeavour as there is evidence and species existing to adapt to salinity and rigidity in the soil impacting agricultural lands,” he added.
He said the farmers should be enabled to adopt those technologies to achieve climate adaptation.
Director IBA, Dr Nausheen Hafizah Anwar said the climate impacts not only include population effects but also that on vulnerable communities and population groups, where marginalised people remained underserved in terms of access to critical infrastructure.
She added that there was less effective response strategy due to disconnect in terms of governance at the municipal level whereas heatwave was stealth killer that demanded more proactive response.
Former DG Met office, Dr Ghulam Rasool said mountain ecosystems of Pakistan were very fragile in terms of cryosphere areas in Hindukush and Himalayan region under its political jurisdiction.
Moreover, water supply issues were emerging in glaciated zone due to thinning of the glaciers as recession of glaciers was causing glacial lake outburst floods, he added.
Bhutan, he said was glaring example of success in tackling climate and have gone climate neutral and organic country promoting organic agriculture where communities were using sustainable practices, adding, “Pakistan can also achieve it and should work on it.”