The Solution to Pakistan’s Problems

By Shemrez Nauman Afzal

We all know what is wrong with Pakistan. We all read the newspapers every day. We watch TV, we watch the anchors and the video clips, we listen to the radio, and with a straight face, we acknowledge that we have become immune to violence, to hatred, to inequality, to greed, and to whatever happens to Pakistan.

If you’re really not concerned or bothered about it, and would rather do something else, now is the time that you stop reading this, because it really isn’t worth your while. But if you do care, and if you do want to do something about it, but don’t know what to do or how to do it, just take a little bit of time out and listen to what I have to say. The choice is yours, but the right to know is yours as well.

Yes, there are many problems with Pakistan, and nobody knows where to start from or where to pick up. But instead of talking about what’s wrong with Pakistan, shouldn’t we be talking about how we fix it? Everyone says there’s a war being fought against us – some say it’s the Taliban, some say its America, others say it’s the mullah’s, and so on. Well, if it is a war according to that narrative, then we do need to fight a war against Pakistan’s problems, but how many wars can we fight? Do we pick up arms and fight the Taliban? Or do we join the Taliban and fight America, in Afghanistan or like Faisal Shahzad in New York? What good does protesting do if you do not get your voice heard in the end? Do numbers in the street matter when you give a speech and go home, but do not achieve anything substantive or cogent from the common platform that you all stand for and believe in?

Yes. We need to fight a war against all of Pakistan’s problems. One war that we need to fight is against apathy. And that is the biggest war we must fight. Why do we not care? We must care. If we feel sad or depressed, then we must do something about it so that it does not keep happening to us; call it survival if not altruism. We cannot sit idly by and watch our nation spiral down into further depths of chaos and anarchy. But what do we do? Do we join the police or army? Or do we join the Taliban and Al Qaeda? Do we join those who are protesting every day out in the streets, on one issue or the other? We might think of all of this, in the comfort of our drawing room, and then just move to the TV or read something on the internet. Or go out to have a cup of coffee, meet with friends, drive around, do something interesting, get tired, go to sleep, and live another day.

If you are still reading this right now, know that you are responsible for this country’s problems if you don’t do anything about it. Whenever you stop acting like a citizen of Pakistan, you do this country so much harm that it becomes hopeless for other citizens of Pakistan to live or survive. And there is a way to make amends for it. There is a way to actually undo the wrongs, the mistakes, the grievances of the past sixty-three years.

If Pakistan is your country, if you really feel for it beyond an national identity card or a passport, then own up to it – to its mistakes and to its greatness. Become its engine of change. Bring positive and meaningful change, and stop waiting for it. Stop being concerned – start being responsible. And it’s not that difficult, and if you really are worried about Pakistan and want to help change it for the better, then you won’t have to change much yourself – you will just have to become, for lack of a better term, more productive. And others who are already being responsible, or want to be responsible, will join you. If you don’t believe me, you should listen to Allama Muhammad Iqbal who said har fard hai millat ke muqaddar ka sitara; each citizen is the shining star of the nation’s destiny.

So stop cribbing about hopelessness and despair. Stop being apathetic. BE the change you want to see. Bring positive and meaningful change through democratic means, and silence all those here and abroad who say that Pakistan is a failed state. It does not matter who you vote for, as long as you vote and make your voice heard. Your political opinion does not matter in your drawing room – and contrary to popular opinion, it may matter even less on your blog – but on the ballot paper, your political opinion is your exercise in charting out the destiny of your country. It is both your privilege and your responsibility – in a democracy, the citizens rule, but if the citizens are not responsible or capable to rule, then the system falls apart. And we all see that it has.

Despite our better judgment, we have made this mistake again, and again, and again. This has happened in all elections that Pakistan has experienced – most of them have been labeled as rigged, while the one in 2008 had high hopes, but ended up with results that also accounted for 46% bogus votes in the final tally. The citizens of Pakistan are capable to rule themselves – if they were not, sovereignty would have no point in our country, and some already believe it doesn’t – but in order to properly exercise this capability, the citizens of Pakistan must be responsible about electing their leaders and representatives. To do this, they must vote responsibly – because someone who has come to power without your vote (whether it is a general or a politician) will not be accountable to you in any way. Pakistan must prepare for elections in late 2012, or early 2013. Or even before that. The timing of the election matters very little – what matters is the result, and what matters even more is that if it reflects the general will of the people of Pakistan. How must Pakistan prepare for this? By being aware about the political system of the country and of the political options available in any given electoral situation. Since education has suffered immensely in Pakistan, even electoral knowledge in the voting populating is found wanting. Constituents must responsibly elect their representatives, and they must know how to be responsible during election campaigns as well as during voting procedures. Bringing change by the ballot is the only chance Pakistan has; change by the bullet is something the residents of Swat would repeatedly warn you about.

It is time for you to become responsible; responsible about Pakistan, responsible about its problems, responsible about what you can do about it, responsible about actually doing something about it, and by doing so, encouraging others to be responsible in the smallest ways that they can. Once we are able to understand how to convert our concerns and depressions into innovative ideas and solutions, we can share these small solutions to help our communities deal with bigger problems. For Pakistan right now, community mobilization is the most important element of recovering a national and local ethos that is becoming victim to suspicion, mistrust, and other social impediments. Communities must become aware of their living environments, and they must responsibly handle the problems that they and their neighbors face. This cannot happen in a day, but for it to succeed, it must continue to happen every day, and you must do your part for your community even if others don’t. And when it is time for you to decide who gets to govern us and determine the future of our country, make sure you vote, and vote responsibly.

The future of Pakistan depends on it.

Pakistan bothered by US’ ‘keep-in-dark’ policy

ISLAMABAD: Disillusionment is growing in Pakistan over the Unites States’ deliberate attempt to keep its front-line ally in the war against terrorism in the dark on its strategy in Afghanistan, and taking Islamabad for granted despite a huge contribution.

“The United States is deliberately keeping us in the dark in its peace efforts and it appears from Washington’s policy that Pakistan is being made a scapegoat for the failure of the coalition in Afghanistan,” a high-ranking security official said, adding that the United States needed to understand that the spillover effect of the on-going war had damaged the social and cultural fabric of Pakistani society.

“The policy of harping ‘do more’ doesn’t help … we want to be a part of the solution and not the problem … we will also not like to be found standing in a corner at the end of the day,” he added.

The official said that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani had personally conveyed these concerns to US President Barack Obama, who had walked in to attend the recent Strategic Dialogue meeting in Washington.

“The US president was informed about the perception in Pakistan on being taken for granted and disregarding our role, which indicated that we were being made a scapegoat for the coalition’s failure as the once most trusted ally was now being bullied at … the US president was also apprised that Pakistan continued to suffer because of Afghanistan,” he said, adding that the military establishment’s disappointment over the US’ failure to address Pakistan’s concerns was candidly put across.

The official said the US president had also been told that unless Pakistan was on board, peace in Afghanistan would not be possible as “time is short and resources are limited”.

Acknowledging that the radical forces were an equal threat for the United States, Pakistan and Afghanistan, he said stability in Afghanistan was key to resolving all issues.

He said the concept of (Pakistan’s) strategic depth was absolutely misunderstood.

“It has also been made clear to the United States that Pakistan has no intention to over-run Afghanistan and control it but we cannot forego our long-term interests for short-term solutions … a stable Afghanistan will help address our security issues and stability in Afghanistan is possible only with the support of all ethnic groups and if needed, the Afghan constitution may be changed to make a strong federation … idealism has to be reconciled with ground realities,” the official said.

He said al Qaeda must be pursued ruthlessly and crushed as a common enemy and it was imperative to identify those Taliban who were willing to negotiate for reconciliation.

“Peace in Afghanistan should be judged in relative terms … what is doable must be the basis of the strategy … military strategy has to be the basis for the political strategy as military strategy cannot be an end in itself.” He said it was wrong to say that the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) was supporting the Haqqani network.

The official said that the COAS also brushed aside the impression that Pakistan was not willing to launch an operation in North Waziristan. “The US president was informed that in principal it was not a question of ‘if, when and how’ … the army chief told him that the Pakistan Army was already over-stretched and a major operation was only possible by sending logistics to North Waziristan from South Waziristan … it was also conveyed to the US president that Pakistan was facing budgetary constraints and it was difficult to maintain our defence capabilities,” he said.

He said that the more important consideration for Pakistan was that the operation would have a blow-back effect as terrorist attacks were expected to increase and there would be another exodus of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country.

“The armed forces are already handling the post-flood situation in the country … militants have already started resurging in Bajaur and Mohmand agencies … and we are also stuck in the rebuilding phase in Swat and Malakand where, in a way, we are fixed and the possibility is that positivity will turn into negativity if the army stays there for a longer period … the war against terrorism is a matter of life and death for Pakistan … al Qaeda poses a serious threat to us but the US media has turned biased against us and our contribution is being disregarded,” he said, explaining Pakistan’s predicament.

The official said that under the Coalition Support Fund (CSF), Pakistan had claimed $11.59 billion of which $9.47 billion were asked for the army. “A total of $7.93 billion have been reimbursed and the army has been given only $2.5 billion while rest of the money has gone for the budgetary support,” he said.

He rejected the myth that the army was a white elephant. “The armed forces get only 16 percent of the total budget and that too is decreasing in real terms,” he said, admitting that the Pakistan Army was India-centric as “this is our job … we are trained for this and we are not apologetic for professionally preparing ourselves in this direction”.

On Balochistan, the official said that there was “no army” except in Sui to protect the gas field and there too the army would soon be replaced with the Frontier Corps. “The army had been pulled back a year ago,” he said, adding that a military college and a technical institute would be established in Sui cantonment.

The official said the mindset in the United States was that Pakistan was not willing to change its “India-centric security paradigm”. “The US president was briefed on this and told that contrary to this, the Indian militarisation is Pakistan-specific and India is the biggest buyer of armaments with its arsenals ostensibly being Pakistan-specific … the US president was also told that if Pakistan’s security concerns were addressed, it was ready to reduce its army,” the official said, admitting that the Pakistan Army had a limited capability and could not afford a confrontation.

He said the Pakistan’s concern over the growing US-India relations was also conveyed to Obama who was also told that “we are ready to go an extra mile for peace but not at the cost of our self-respect”. However, he said it concerned Pakistan a lot that the United States was not ready to play a role in resolving the issues between Pakistan and India. To a question about the options available with Pakistan, the official said, “We have drawn a red line beyond which we will not compromise and have our options open to protect our sovereignty and dignity”.

OBAMA’S INDIA YATRA

by Ghalib Sultan

As President Obama prepares for his India ‘yatra’ it would be instructive to see how an open source case can be built up for US complicity in the war on terror by using Islamic militants in pursuit of its own interests. Indians are busy highlighting the US-India convergence in the war against terror and according to India the epicenter is in Pakistan and its religious extremists (Hindu extremists that fan violence in India are conveniently not mentioned). The US coming out in support of India or agreeing to it on Pakistan would simply confirm the perception that the convergence that India harps on with the US is actually getting Washington to put its head together with Delhi to ‘deal’ with Pakistan and Islamic militants. Islam is not just in Pakistan-it is in the whole world so India’s view through a Pakistan prism can be unsettling.

Read Complete Article Here: http://www.zoneasia-pk.com/ZoneAsia-Pk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2474:obamas-india-yatra&catid=41:securityissues&Itemid=62

Pakistan, China cornerstone of stability in S Asia: Zardari

The News International

BEIJING: President Asif Ali Zardari said on Thursday Pakistan and China together were the cornerstones of stability in South Asia.

He met Chinese premier Wen Jiabao and discussed with him the Pakistan-China bilateral relations at length. The two leaders reiterated the deep, strong ties between the two countries and vowed to strengthen in the days ahead.

Welcoming President Zardari and his delegation, the Chinese premier said: “This is your 5th visit to China and it demonstrates how much importance you accord to bilateral relations between our two countries.” President Zardari said China had cooperated a lot during Benazir Bhutto’s tenure. This time the PPP is again in power and Pakistan expects the same cooperation from China to help tackle the challenges the country is facing, he said.

The Chinese prime minister said the 60th anniversary of Pak-China relations would be celebrated in a cordial atmosphere. About the importance of geo-political position of Pakistan in the region, he said Pakistan was an important country of the region and fighting the war against terrorism. The international community, he said, should come forward to help Pakistan and make its fight against terror a success.

Recalling his last visit to Pakistan, the Chinese premier said the people of Pakistan had accorded him a warm welcome. He expressed the desire to visit Pakistan soon. He said both Pakistan and China would work together to bring the situation in Attabad lake in Hunza to normality.

President Zardari said Pakistan wanted connectivity to China through road link, oil pipeline and optic fibre. He said Pakistan desired that China should take maximum benefits from the Gwadar Port. “We can jointly think about reaching upward in Asia exploring those markets through Pakistan,” he said.

The Chinese premier said,” I know you take more interest in construction of highways that can improve connectivity between the two countries.” The president was accompanied by his two daughters, Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, and members of his entourage.

Wen Jiabao said during the meeting, the Chinese government attached great importance to its trade ties with Pakistan which not only benefit peoples of both the countries, but also have strategic significance to the long-term development of the two economies.

Earlier, Jia Qinglin, Chairman of the Chinese People Political Consultative Conference, a top advisory body, during the meeting with President Zardari, said China had always valued its relationship with Pakistan, and treated the bilateral ties from a strategic and long-term perspective.

Later, briefing journalists, presidential spokesperson Farhatullah Babar said the talks focused on joint economic projects, promoting regional connectivity, militancy and terrorism and modalities for enhancing people-to-people contacts as an essential component of the strategic relationship between the two countries.

President Zardari said language was the most important instrument for promoting people-to-people contacts and called for elaborate institutional arrangements for teaching Chinese and Urdu languages to students, workers and people of Pakistan and China.

Babar quoted Premier Wen Jiabao as saying that China deeply appreciated Pakistan’s policy of One China and assured President Zardari of his country’s continued support to Pakistan at the UN and at multilateral forums including SAARC and ECO. China has supported Pakistan’s full membership of the SCO.

Meanwhile, President Asif Zardari met Chinese ministers at the State Guest House and discussed with them matters related to mutual cooperation in the field of water conservation, water resource management, hybrid seed technologies, drip and sprinkling irrigation system and latest technologies adopted by China for maximisation of the agricultural products.

Chinese foreign minister spokesman Qin Gang told reporters in response to a question that cooperation for construction of railway link between the two countries was for mutual benefit and not directed against any third party.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) and the China Radio International was signed in the presence of President Asif Ali Zardari in China. Under the MoU, both the broadcasting institutions of friendly countries will extend maximum cooperation to each other in technical field and programmes to enhance the standard of their broadcasts in the region. President Zardari also inaugurated the Mohenjodaro/Ghandhara photo exhibition at the prestigious Tsinghua University.

Top Obama aides arrive to push Pakistan over NY plot

US NSA, CIA director to discuss war against terrorism with top Pak officials

By Saeed Minhas

ISLAMABAD: In the wake of the failed bombing attempt at New York’s Times Square, two top national security lieutenants of US President Barrack Obama have arrived in Islamabad to drum up Washington’s “do more” mantra.

The two officials will also deliver Obama’s message to the Pakistani government to do away with its India-centric policies and concentrate more on the war on terror.

US National Security Advisor General James Jones and CIA Director Leon Panetta arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday evening to engage in meetings with high-ranking military and civilian leadership today (Wednesday), US embassy spokesman Richard Snelsire confirmed. Calling the visit “pretty routine” and “in the line of duty”, the embassy spokesperson said Gen Jones and Panetta would be discussing the progress on recently held strategic dialogue, defence issues, security cooperation and the impact of the failed bombing attempt at New York’s Times Square bombing. A Pakistani official seeking anonymity confirmed that top of the agenda of the US delegation would remain the Times Square bombing attempt, however, he said demands to end Islamabad’s India-centric approach might also be taken up strongly by the US officials.

Pakistan wants to assist Afghanistan in reconstruction efforts: FM

APP

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Monday said that Pakistan wanted to assist Afghanistan in capacity building and reconstruction efforts, including through the involvement of Pakistan’s private sector. In this regard, he said Pakistan was willing to continue working with the international community and remain engaged with Afghanistan.

He was speaking as Chief Guest at a dinner hosted by the Spanish Ambassador Gonzalo Maria Quintero Saravia here today. The Spanish Ambassador hosted the dinner in Spain’s capacity as the current President of the rotating Presidency of the EU.

Pakistan more willing to act against terrorism: Obama

US president says his government’s goal is to break down old suspicions, bad habits and continue to work with Pakistani government

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama has said he is seeing a growing recognition among Pakistan’s leaders that extremist groups based in the country represent a “cancer in their midst”.

After a meeting at the White House on Wednesday with visiting Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Obama said Pakistani leaders were recognising that the groups that were using the border areas as a base were threatening Pakistan’s sovereignty. Obama said it would take time for Pakistan to assert control in the border areas that had been “loosely governed” until now. He said the Pakistani authorities were starting to do that, but it was “not going to happen overnight”. He said while full control over the historically ungoverned areas would take time, continued international engagement with Islamabad and Kabul was essential. He said the US and Afghan officials had been highlighting to Pakistani leaders that the security of all three countries was “intertwined”.

Afghan crunch time: Obama must decide whether to talk to the Taliban

By Ahmed Rashid

Before President Hamid Karzai arrives in Washington next month, President Obama has to make clear key decisions on the course of war and peacemaking in Afghanistan.

Neighboring countries and most Afghans believe that the endgame has begun for a post-U.S. Afghanistan. There are just 14 months for the U.S. military surge to show results while Washington simultaneously prepares to begin its July 2011 troop withdrawal and handover to the Afghan government. Already, efforts to jockey for future control of Afghanistan have been seen among Pakistan, India, Iran and even Russia. Several NATO countries eager to withdraw forces are frustrated. It is clear in the region that someone will have to mediate with the Taliban, but in the absence of U.S. leadership, a tug of war is taking place over who will do it, when, how and where.

The recent spat between the White House and Karzai — which has cooled down thanks in part to Gen. Stanley McChrystal, the commander of international forces in Afghanistan — largely stemmed from Karzai’s growing frustration over questions about which the Obama administration has been unclear.

Cold War Syndrome

By Afshain Afzal

There have been scores of parleys between India and Pakistan at all possible levels; however, they always met the same fate. One gets the feeling as if positive outcome of these parleys can only be achieved through some sort of divine intervention. This time around also, before the two respective foreign secretaries met on 25 February 2010, there were very little hopes that the talks would bear any fruits due to indifferent views and comments in the print and electronic media on either side of the dividing line. Still, sequel to the talks, both the countries showed their nerves in giving the impression that all was not lost despite the gloomy stalemate that has been the trademark of bilateral parleys. The Indian Foreign Minister SM Krishna told the parliament that the talks marked an “encouraging step towards restoring dialogue.” Pakistani foreign secretary termed the same interaction as “exploratory” and the one that “cannot be judged on the basis of success and failure.? Stephen P. Cohen, an author and former professor, who conducts research on proliferation and the militaries of India and Pakistan at the Brookings Institute, with respect to the age old stand off between India and Pakistan once wryly said, “Stalemate seems to be more attractive to each side than finding a solution.”

Will US compensate Pak sacrifices in terror war?

Kaswar Klasra

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan and the United States have pledged to boost and broaden the relations to overcome mutual mistrust and suspicions aroused in the recent years over divergence in the methodologies regarding Afghanistan and the fight against terrorism.

Islamabad has several reasons enough to compel US to listen Pakistan, as it is the single largest country, which has suffered huge losses because of the war on terror both in terms of the casualties and militants’ attacks. Against 520 casualties of NATO/ISAF Pakistan has lost more than 800 officers and men last year.

A part from this, thousands of innocent citizens have been killed during a series of suicide attacks across the country and which are seen as revenge against the US drone attacks.

Shahbaz is loyal to Punjab at Pakistan’s expense

By Shafiq Awan

We appreciate Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s late night visit to a number of bomb-stricken areas in Allama Iqbal Town, a move that boosted Lahori spirits against terrorism.

There is no doubt that such visits by a high-profile personality, at a time when the city was under the grip of terror, invigorates public valor. Our political contingent is determined to rid of the menace of extremism, but this aim cannot be achieved without an effective administration.

The CM’s appeal, asking the Taliban not to target Punjab, since both the terrorist group and the provincial government have the same views over foreign dictation has shocked many. I believe his statement will lead to further controversy and that Sindh and NWFP should have serious reservation over it. His love for Punjab cannot be doubted, but shouldn’t he be making an appeal for the safety of the entire country?

The residents of Iqbal Town were still mourning the loss of 75 of their loved ones who were lost in the Moon Market blast in December 2009, while the recent wave of terror has further shaken their confidence in law enforcement agencies. What were out law enforcement agencies doing when the terrorists struck our citizens? Where were our Patrolling Police, Muhafiz Force, Quick Response Force, Mujahid Squad, Elite force? Where were those responsible for protecting the masses?

After the RA Bazaar blasts and the first two explosions in Iqbal Town, law enforcers should have become extra vigilant. Iqbal Town Circle Superintendent of Police Nasir Iqbal Rizvi stubbornly repeated that the Iqbal Town blasts were low-intensity and triggered by home made “crackers”, but the Bomb Disposal Squad refuted the claim and declared that the series of blasts were carried out using time device.

How can a home-made “cracker” so badly damage a car? One couldn’t help but notice how all the nameplates outside police officers’ residences were removed following the Iqbal Town blasts.

A senior police officer told me that law enforcers had not been prepared to deal with any possible threat in the Iqbal Town region after the RA Bazaar attack. No special measures or patrolling was designed to counter a possible threat in the area. If any number of security personnel had been deployed in the area after the first two blasts, the terrorists would have known that “Lahore was ready”. But the terror spree was allowed to continue.

A senior police officer complained that police officials had been “bullied” in the CM’s meeting on law and order after the blast. My dear officer, the CM’s concerns after the RA Bazaar attack and the woeful planning after the series of blasts in Iqbal Town were genuine. To avoid any harsh treatment in the future, you should really be extra vigilant. Shahbaz was right in his claims that his government were providing all facilities to police, ranging from finances to strategic facilities, but law enforcers should at least plan well to compensate for their performance.

The said police officer admitted that the series of blasts in Iqbal Town could have been averted if police had been vigilant. He dispelled the impression that cops had locked themselves in their safe houses after the blasts. To a question as to why police had failed to reach the blast site on time, he excused himself by saying that the delay had been caused by being ill prepared for the attack.

I disagree with the notion that police had not planned appropriately. In fact, capability is the first step to competence. Only afterwards does planning hold any importance. Our police lacks the capability to deal with such situations and it had dedicated itself to exercise third degree tortures, stage encounters, converting police stations into concentration camps and converting cops into proverbial scarecrows.

The CM directed police to collect evidence and protect crime scenes like the military did after the RA Bazaar blasts. A senior police officer complained about how journalists crowded on to blast sites, “which distorts potential evidence”. This might be true, but it can be avoided by making the crime scene a “no go area” for every person except security personnel and emergency services’ personnel. Police have a right to treat journalists the same as everyone else.

UK training Pak officials in anti-terrorism communication

* 63 mid-level military, civilian officers being trained in first batch to effectively communicate issues related to counter terrorism

ISLAMABAD: After training a select group of combat troops in counter-terrorism operations, the UK has started training Pakistani civilian and military officials in effective counter-terrorism communication strategies.

Senior government sources said the first three training workshops on ‘Strategic Communication on Public-Cultural Diplomacy: A Pakistan UK Collaborative Training Initiative’ with the focus on counter-terrorism communication would conclude today (Thursday).

“In the first batch, 63 mid-level military and civilian officers are being trained to effectively communicate issues related to counter terrorism to improve public perception about the war on terror,” said the sources.

UK Communications Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Ian Hargreaves and other British experts are conducting the training, which is being facilitated by Information Ministry and held at the Information Service Academy.

“The aim of the training is to improve communication among various stakeholders to help Pakistan reduce opposition in the war on terror and also improve image of the UK among the Pakistani masses,” they said.

The sources said UK officials were worried because of the negative stereotyping of the country in the Muslim world, especially Pakistan.”

Federal Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira and British High Commissioner Adam Thompson inaugurated the training on Tuesday. Both officials hope that such trainings would come around more often to benefit the two nations in their efforts against terrorism.

Pakistan at Crossroads

Mahboob A. Khawaja, Ph.D.

Pakistan bears the hallmarks of the US-British roadmap for Iraq with massive killings of the civilian population, destruction of its socio-economic infrastructure as the foreign implanted leaders have adequate share of their fortunes for looting its irreplaceable natural wealth, time, human and economic resources. Dean Nelson of the UK Telegraph (October 07, 2009), made a pinching observation and asked: “Has Pakistan lost its honour?” The article referred to Dr. AK Khan’s much appraised Urdu write up “Ghairat” – honor a reflection on the current bloody affairs of the nation. Could any official of the ruling clan dare to answer that question? Ordinary folks believe that General Pervaiz Musharaf, late Miss Bhutto and Zardari have sold the country to foreign interests to maintain their own relevance and foreign bank balances. To entertain the anti-Islamic Washington-based lobbyists, America carries out its own attacks on the civilian population inside Pakistan. In clear violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and international law, the daily American predator drone attacks kill innocent people in South Waziristan but no one can dare to question the might of the US control over Pakistan’s internal affairs. President Obama talks about peace and harmony with the Muslim world as face lifting postulation to shield the American worldwide moral, political and financial bankruptcy but appears determined to send more troops to Afghanistan to increase the deaths and destruction of the war torn country. He and his advisors never been to a war front but want to fight new wars against Muslims.

The US never identified the 9/11 perpetrators as being Afghans or Pakistanis – the inherent lies in the US policy on the current revamped war on terror. It further signals intellectual bankruptcy amongst the US policy makers. The aggressive military nuisance must be stopped. American and British have no purpose to be fighting inAfghanistan or Pakistan. The Bush led War on Terrorism was bogus and it destroyed America not just its history and values but as superpower to be credible in global governance. The people of Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan never threatened nor posed any threats to the security of the United States. To pursue the Bush war on Muslims, American policy makers searched for moderate Muslims and invested almost 10 billions to keep afloat most corrupt authoritarians like the former General Musharaf and Karazai. It was not time and money well spent but to rekindle the anti- American reactions in view of the massive warmongerings in Iraq and killings of almost 2.5 millions civilians for no other reason except to satisfy the insanity of the few actively waging bogus war on Islam. Political irony overwhelmedthe American expectations that General Musharaf could deliver tangible goodies to Bush and the neoconservatives. Corruption knows no other motives except to institutionalize itself. The General came to power to eradicate corrupt politics until he transformed himself to be one of them. In the process, Pakistan lost precious time and opportunities for change and political reformation and future-building. Time and opportunities lost, are never regained. If and when the General is held accountable, he will never admit of doing anything wrong. He used to claim that “Pakistan comes first, not democracy.” The self-proclaimed president made Pakistanis looklike beggars to American so called economic aid. The advanced nations of the world are striving to envision the promising future for their survival, whereas, some political factions are engulfed with political madness and extremism ofkillings, perhaps not of their own origin but implanted by the foreign masters. Today, retired General Musharaf owns costly villa in UK worth 1.4 million dollars and is protected by the British secret service. Where did he get the money from? What official entitlement facilitates the British security protection to a corrupt and retired General? Pakistan has history of corrupt leadership. Late Ms. Bhutto and her husband Zardari with 15 known criminal court cases of money laundering, financial embezzlement and Swiss bank case of 60 million dollars of bribes money, killings and fraudulent businesses and Nawaz Sharif – twice removed as PM on corruption charges no angel either, and so many before them were all self-centered naïve and corrupt who institutionalized the corruption and drained out the positive thinking, abilities ofthe nation and lifelines of the future generations of hopeful young Pakistanis for change and development. Only ignorant and stupid people could hope for anything good out of them.

After the American bloodbath in Iraq and extended war to Afghanistan, Pakistan was next to be crippled with political chaos and killings of the civilians, enabling Zardari and the Generals to profit from the daily bloodbath of the innocent civilians. The on-going war seems to have undermined the very integrity of the Pakistani nation. Islam does not preach extremism but peace and harmony for a balanced life. The radicalization of Islam stems from ignorance and arrogance. Islam is peace and peace represents logic of reason and understanding of normal human values and respect for life. Those who call themselves Taliban must learn that Islam does not allow public scolding and beating of the females/males as a staged show and part of the law and justice system approach but instead focuses on education and reformation of the individual and collective well being of the Muslim society to be obedient to God. If they resort to force as means to introduce “shariah”, it is ignorance (jahalliya) not Islamic ways of life. Though emotions appear to override the people’s reaction in the tribal belts ofAfghanistan -Pakistan against the brutal military action, and that is not the solution but a reason for new emerging problems which Pakistani army is not equipped to deal with. The prevalent situation warrants fresh thinking and new strategy away from the military action to reason the unreason. The forty years of military dictatorship in alliance with corrupted politics of Bhuttos and Sharifs has given rise to such volatile problems of exploitation where ordinary citizens lack basic amenities of life (education, health and security) and where the ruling elite class lives like kings and queens of the poverty stricken nation. The nation seems to have failed to create leaders except the traitors. Islamic scholars should have taken the lead initiatives to speak out against the obsessed ignorance perpetuating the reactionary attacks on civilian life and elsewhere. Islam has no place for extremism as evolved by the few self-centered radical preachers in the tribal areas. Ironically, today Muslim scholars are confined to the boundary of the masjid, not concerned about the decaying moral and political affairs of the Muslim Ummah. Military action was not the proper answer but a comprehensive intellectual dialogue with the few who call themselves Pakistani Taliban. Yet, those alleged are forced to react to American predator drone attacks and troops engagements being used against the people who had nothing to do with the 9/11 attack in the US. Imagine if there was just one company or a battalion of Afghan Mujahideen or Iraqi soldiers stationed in Washington or New York, would their presence comfortthe American people to get peaceful sleep or go to normal daily activities? When we think comparatively, we seem to get more rational answers. American politicians would never think in such realistic terms. The policy makers pretend to help the victims of the so called Islamic extremism or Taliban but do not understand that they are part of the problem, not a solution. So far, for the last eight years according to reliable sources, American ledWar on Terror has killed 2.5 millions people in Iraq and destroyed countless human habitats under the false pretext of terrorism and insurgency. Simply put, you went there to kill people and in return the Iraqis are defending their lives and property, they are not the insurgents but defenders of their lives, homes and honor and certainly not the extremists. You are the aggressors, and they are the victims of your atrocities in plain English language, if you can comprehend that reality and wrap up your military aggression without the phony UN paperwork, it will be in your interest and a proactive strategy for face saving to undo the ultimate defeat.

For long, Pakistan was projected as the emerging entry of the failed states and distinctively marked as the most dangerous place on earth. General Musharaf and late Miss Bhutto and Zardari have helped Pakistan to become helpless. They were bought and bribed to make Pakistanis look like ‘terrorist’ and undesirable people in the world political arena and allowed the American and British mercenaries to plan killings of the innocent citizens to instigate extremism so that they could enlarge their bank accounts and lives more comfortably abroad. They are the real enemies of the people of Pakistan, who have compromised its integrity in return for individual gains in London and Dubai – splendid homes built like palaces, not thinkable by ordinary Pakistanis. Who would hold them accountable for their crimes? For over forty years the stupid Generals exploited the masses with the laws of jungle. In nutshell, Islam is being used as revulsion against the atrocities of the few Generals and corrupt politicians in Pakistan. In summer 2007, MMN) “Pakistan: how to make sense out of nonsense”, noted that: “General Musharaf and Ms Bhutto are nothing more than seasonal frogs often making ugly sounds in a rainy day and vanish on their own soon after a short span of life.” Once again, concerned Pakistanis are asking the same from Zardari, how soon would he leave the presidency?

With dismantled public institutions, missing honest leadership accountability, crippled system of law and justice, the Bhutto-Zardari ruling elite will fly away once there is any storm by military action or organized civilian uproars. Despite massive daily killings of the innocents with the complicity of the ruling elite to get favors from the new US aid package, public patience has its own limits. There are loud voices of reason calling Zardari to step down from the US facilitated Presidency and make ways for a government of national unity to deal with the extraordinary warlike situation in the country. Pakistanis need competent and honest leaderships and security, not the US aid or the forged presidency of Zardari and the PPP government – an insult to common sense and disgrace to conscientious Pakistanis. The foreign planned war has destabilized Pakistan and ruined its economy, resources and futuristic prospects of normalcy. Thinking people of the nation must THINK and foresee beyond the obvious for change and a new viable political system to encourage educated and honest members of the young generation to assume leadership roles and responsibilities. It is their future not of the Generals, not the Bhuttos and not Zardaris or Sharifs – they are the shameful history of the dead past, not a hope for the future. Pakistanis living abroad view a larger picture of the unfolding political problems stalling the nation and undermining its existence. Many educated and visionary Pakistanis could contribute much needed intelligent and transformational leadership role to safeguard the country from the current turmoil and bloodbaths. The former colonial masters failed to learn from the history that they no longer can and will “divide and rule” the people of Pakistan. The NEED is desperate and Urgent to think, plan and act for a navigational change. More than anything, the people of Pakistan need intellectual security to safeguard their integrity. Zardaris, Bhuttos, Gilani and Sharifs are not the hope for the future but dark forces of the dead past. Nation-building is not the child play that few military Generals or corrupt politicians could deliver. The onus is on the educated and conscientious Pakistanis scattered around the globe to come to terms and realize that they owe lot more to Pakistan for what they are, their happiness and success and should take initiatives to help free the besieged nation at a difficult juncture of its survival.

Dr. Mahboob A. Khawaja specializes in global security, peace and conflict resolution, and comparative cultures and civilizations, and author of many publications including Muslims and the West; How America Lost the War on Islamic Fundamentalism; To America and Canada with Reason; “Pakistan: Enigma of Change”, “Pakistan: Leaders who could not lead”, “Pakistan: how to make sense out of nonsense.”

Indian Army Chief going wild

AD Khalid

Has India become pawn of geo strategic politics or General gone xenophobic?

21st century may be termed as time of peace, harmony, economic growth and war against terrorism by the entire world less India. Reasons are quite obvious but off course not highlighted effectively by regional as well as international media. The social system of India is founded on inequality, intolerance, conservative thoughts and religious extremism. In recent past, Indian politicians have falsely driven the nation of 1.2 billion heads into a utopia that they are sooner becoming a super power. Hence, it is just like creating unnecessary hype & wishful wrongly set objectives in all circles of the society. In the process, politicians specially running the state affairs have fallen into the hands of international power brokers who have never been friend to any body other than themselves. They are actually loyal to their economical interests and promoting the agenda of war industry mainly based in USA. Indian leaders are indeed extremely frustrated over increasing hype, militancy and extremism with in its society and armed forces, yet they are sounding more cocky and belligerent towards Pakistan and China as well.

It was not only surprising but also babyish to listen when Indian army chief a few weeks earlier, talked about a limited nuclear war between Pakistan and India. It really kept many in a state of shock and also revealed Indian future design to destabilize the region and off course stabbing the forces who are fighting the war againstterrorism. The agenda was clear as India did not want the end to terrorism. The critics, military experts and analysts were discussing about the consequences of this nuclear war which was termed as limited by the Indian General who probably required an immediate briefing about after effects of a nuclear break out between two atomic powers. The famous scientist Albert Einstein said “I know not with what weapons World war III will be fought but I exactly know that war after that will be fought with stones and sticks”. The general did not stop even for a few days and banged the world with another millennium statement saying that India was capable of fighting a two front war with Pakistan and China. It was rightly termed as bizarre by some one in the media as such a uncontrolled statement could end into a conflict which would only bring turmoil in the region and its effects will ultimately bring horrified results for the world .It will not only bring atomic powers in quarrel but also severely damage the world efforts against war against terrorism.

Indian premier always crying for peace seems in no control of its army chief or this all is happening as per his strategy. Situation at the moment is quite complex and role of India has gone really dubious on the chess of world power game. Seeing the situation and increasing intolerance in India, the statement of the General looks quite relevant. Increasing intolerance, militancy andterrorism in Indian army which was unveiled first in incidents like Samjohta express and Malegaon blasts is now evident from the statements of the highest ranks of Indian armed forces. This is probably the strongest indication that extremist elements and their thought process is nourishing vastly inIndian army in particular and Indian society in general. Opening nuclear fronts on two borders of India is really horrifying but every body including free media of India is silent at this critical juncture of time. Actually every one in India is feared from the strength of her extremist elements that are developing to form an organization just parallel to Al Qaeda. Media has recently witnessed the attack of an extremist group on a TV channel and exactly knows that this conservative mind set with religious faith will very soon go out of the hands of state apparatus. The statements of the army chief are warranting a future which will only give blood and poverty to India and the region. World must take notice of such hot air and a diplomatic pressure must be built on a country which is responsible of 1.2 billion heads.

At the moment, Indian army is under going enormous pressures and discipline issues. Extremists groups have creped into the ranks of the army and now implementing their bloodiest thought process. With the passage of time, they are building strength and General Deepak Kapoor has no other option to keep them under control other than giving statements which keep these groups happy. Discipline state of the officers and ranks ofIndian army is pitiable as recently about 41 officers were found selling their weapons to terrorists and case against the Lt.Genaral who was indicted in a land scam in Sukhna Cantonment in West Bengal is still pending as general Deepak Kapoor will take decision on his punishment. Reportedly, the corruption money was being sent to extremist elements of Indian army for their activities. On the other hand, security arsenal of Indian atomic installations have gone so week that fires are breaking out quite frequently in atomic installations of India. Fire in Bhabba atomic plant is the recent example and none knows the exact reason but it was a serious security lapse. None knows that why this all is happening? It will be formidable for the world to know some day that this all was actually the activities of extremist elements with in the ranks of Indian army.

Indian army is the largest component of the Indian armed forces. Its primary mission is to ensure the national security and defense of the Republic of India from external aggression, threats and maintaining peace and security with in its borders .It also conducts humanitarian rescue operations during natural calamities and other disturbances. But unfortunately, officers like Col Prohat were found in killing and creating humanitarian crisis and now the chief is himself trying to threat its own borders on grounds unknown to anyone and probably to himself as well.

Pakistan army in its response has termed the statement of Indian General as jingoistic and it is rightly so. As per a spokesman, such statements like one Indian General gave, actually betrayed hostile intents as well as hegemonic and jingoistic mindset that is out of step and proportion with the realities of the times. Pak spokesman further added that no one should underestimate our capabilities and determination to foil any nefarious designs against the security of Pakistan. We are mindful and ready about any threats to security of Pakistan as well as importance of promoting peace in south East Asia.

Analysts, media, civil society and well wishers of the region will keep discussing the two front war statement of the Indian army Chief (looked inspired from Bal Thackery and Bollywood ) who left no space for India to clear its position on increasing militancy, extremism andterrorism in so called secular India. However, Indian as well as international media will highlight this or not, remain a million dollar question. If India becomes pawn of international politics, it will not only damage regional peace but also destroy herself in totality. But at the moment, Indian army from its statements looks as being commanded by subalterns and not generals.

EMERGING SCENARIO: PAKISTAN’S OPTIONS

Ijaz-ul-Haq

NO SOLUTION IS POSSIBLE WITHOUT PAKISTAN

US Administration under President Obama, now in the arena for a good length, seems to suffer as if it can no longer be responsive, decisive and swift. The closure of Guantanamo Prison Camp in Cuba vehemently announced by President Obama years back has been allowed to drift to the back-burner. The Administration seems to be less enthusiastic about following words by action and deeds as witnessed by the time taken by the President to approve and order surge in soldiers for Afghanistan. The shortest possible sentences announcing Exit Strategy and withdrawal by July 2011 went almost un-cheered even back home. A couple of voices from Washington favoring a Review of the same have further diluted its impact. The situation on ground clouds its prospects and possibility-being an un-finished Agenda. The questions that surface are:

• Have Americans achieved their goals?
• Has Osama been killed or captured?
• Is Al-Qaeda a history?
• Has the terror or terrorism ended or have the terrorists been eliminated.
• Has Afghanistan been stabilized as a democratic viable society with political and economic sustainability?
• Have the NATO Armies from almost 34 countries led by US Army comprising over one hundred thousand with all the weaponry, munitions and fire power in eight years been able to sub-due or rein in the Taliban?
• Will the Government of President Karazai be able to grow enough muscles, limbs and legs to stand on in another short span of time?

Much earlier had I said that US intentions and designs in the region (though un-stated so far) are:-

• Prolonged stay maintaining military presence to contain China.
• Exploit natural resources to its economic gains.
• De nuclearise Pakistan and thwart Iranian nuclear ambitions.

Incidentally, I continue to hold the same view with earnest hope that as did leave Mr. Bush, the “crusade ” part of the Expedition must have left the White House too.

In the absence of any higher direction of war (on terror) at the political level, policy statements emerging from Multan instead of Islamabad, the complexities of the situation seemingly have been left for the Generals to solve, settle and salvage. The frequent, successive and un-ending arrivals and departures of Generals McChrystal, Mike Mullen and Petraeus can be a case in point. It is said,” War is too serious a business to be left to the Generals alone”. The conduct of battles can be left to the local pleasures, Wars are fought at national level. And at national level, we do not have the leadership worth its salt. Contrary to sloganeering by political non-entities Pakistan, an ally against terror, has been certainly not taken into confidence, co-opted, consulted, or even fore-informed about the impending US Exit or Surge Strategy. This has caused serious implications for us and the region.

President Obama’s speech at West Point on December 01, 2009 impacting global policies has been under scrutiny and analysis at important capitals. The Government of Pakistan and the Prime Minister himself have commented about need for further clarity. The calculus principles prescribe that the opposites can-not be combined together. Announcing simultaneously in the same breath, both surge and withdrawal sounded strange, if not odd. The seasoned diplomats assert that what has been said is not that important. Of more importance is what has not been said. There has been no word like the “Hot pursuit” or “Increased and expanded Drone Attacks” inside Pakistan. And this is what one is more apprehensive about. Increased “cooperation” being sought from us means more military actions, more deaths and more arrests. The term “Cooperation” implies and includes action by our own security forces as well as unilateral action by US and NATO Armies.

President Obama has, only differed with or resisted the idea of increase in Drone Attacks inside Pakistan (enveloping more targets and more areas like Balochistan) rather than an outright rejection or aversion to the intended increase. This Air War therefore may expand and enlarge in intensity to include areas in Balochistan with reported existence of Quetta Shoora (admitted only recently by the Government). The “Do More” Mantra has been refined and replaced by “Cooperate More” in the recent days – as rightly observed by a former Prime Minister, “Cooperate More” or “Do More” – for us it means “Die More”.

Searching similar sounding Osama, President Obama’s policies have pushed Afghanistan into further factionalizing, Local War Lords, Ethnic Groups and Drug Barons with no central control. Mr. Karazai’s corruption-stained Government’s weak writ does not extend beyond Kabul. Installing Northern Alliance, a Minority over the Majority Pashtun has turned the struggle for power into a National Movement. Raising, training and motivating Afghan National Army in a short period and transforming it into a disciplined potent force capable to quell internal strife and turmoil is an uphill task. Non Pashtun ethnicities cannot procure suitable and enough youth for recruitment. An Army comprising other ethnic groups will not be acceptable to Pashtun populace. Such an Army or Police Force will thus face and foment further hostilities at the peril of peace and tranquility, causing chaos and disharmony.

With its worries compounding each day passing, it appears Pakistan will continue to face the worst. We have failed to evolve our own indigenous Afghan Policy based on national interests and popular aspirations. We have instead been able to formalize a Counter Terrorism Policy only. We seem happy being bracketed as “Af-Pak”. Does it imply that, like Afghanistan, Pakistan, also is under US Military occupation? Does it behove just and befitting a Nuclear armed sovereign State? At best we have been able to create NCTA (National Counter-Terrorism Authority) without credible capacity, capability, qualified manpower, equipment, structure and even the Terms of Reference. It will be a sheer waste of effort and money like many other such under-takings.

Mere announcement of surge has maddened terrorists who are playing havoc even in areas hither-to-fore peaceful in Southern Punjab. The lethal explosive Kgs used for detonation and destruction now runs into four figures raising the casualties correspondingly. Attacks to take over GHQ and at other sensitive installations is meant to announce that they can traverse the most difficult terrain and territory. They are far ahead of our Intelligence mechanism and security apparatus. With relative ease they penetrate into highly protected zones and cordons. The Government claims they are on the run. Instead, with amazing ability and perfect precision, they locate, identify, and engage the high profile targets and disappear at their leisure, leaving lot of blood behind but no track to trace. Surge in US forces will send further fatal shockwaves inside Pakistan.

Despite being UN backed, War against Terror has turned into a US War on Afghanistan. The fight being put up inside Afghanistan by Afghan Taliban has acquired dimensions of a Resistance or Liberation Movement against occupation of their country by US led foreign forces. Afghan Taliban are deeply religious and deplore killing of innocent Muslims. They have publically distanced and dissociated themselves from Pakistani Taliban or TTP fighting against Pakistani security forces. They have an Agenda altogether different. Mulla Omar, Haqqani and Hikmatyar, wherever are they hiding, are all sympathetic towards Pakistan. Then who is providing the TTP with weapons, resources and replenishments to wage war against our valiant soldiers for years? Who is providing them sophisticated weapons, communication devices, gadgetry, intelligence and guidance to our Nerve Centers and sensitive targets? The weapons seized by security forces have been found to be of Indian origin. A plane-load of Weapons meant for some un-specified destination in South Asia has been seized recently by Thai Authorities at Bangkok Airport.

Despite concoct and contrive, India has failed to implicate Pakistan and prove to the world that bombing of Taj Hotel Bombay was state sponsored. Yet the dust kicked and diplomatic offensive launched touched near warlike situation. India took the matter to UN to seek Condemnation and Resolution. We have irrefutable evidence of Indian hand in the mass killings inside our borders. The Interior Minister is specific and conscientious to claim that India is to blame for the mayhem. Chief Minister Punjab, overstepping and over-stretching his domain though, has claimed and confirmed Indian involvement. Yet our Foreign Minister is reluctant to name it. Such ineptitude by us is emboldening the adversary. Luring comments and soothing statements by our rulers cannot deter India’s intentions to violate and weaken our sovereignty.

Pakistan has vital interests and serious stakes in Afghanistan. Those detesting Doctrine of Strategic Depth (since abandoned by our so called contemporary strategists) may draw pleasure by playing opposite; the initiative has been wrested by India. Located geographically to our east, India has moved simultaneously, literally, physically and strategically towards our western borders as well. India has also established bases in Central Asia. It has established strong base to cause us afflictions. Twisting our tail it can hit the nail in our head. Only a simpleton could consider India to be a threat no longer. It is an illusion. With North in Snow and South in Sea, India now occupying both its Eastern and Western flanks, Pakistan can ill afford to be content or complacent for its security concerns.

Instead of our fighting US War, sinking further and deeper into the quagmire, Pakistan must:-

• Evolve its own Afghan Policy based on national interests, popular aspirations and collective wisdom through the parliament.
• Seek Organisation of Islamic Conference, (OIC’s) assistance as was done in the Eighties against Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Saudi Arabia and China can help coordinate and contribute in our efforts for peace in Afghanistan.
• Approach UN for deployment of its Peace Keeping Force (instead of NATO-ISAF) to stabilize Afghanistan internally. These UN Forces may comprise Non-regional and preferably Muslim countries.
• Convince USA that by becoming its ally, Pakistan, as in the past, has suffered enough. We have paid a heavy price. It is now their turn to give enough military and economic assistance. US must prevail on India to resolve our long standing mutual disputes including Kashmir.

Americans traveling with un-registered Weapons and Vehicles are ruling our seas and skies as well. Misusing their immunity, the defying Diplomats treat our law enforcement personnel with contempt. Reportedly, taking over and seizure of our nuclear assets by highly trained US Special Forces has already been rehearsed to perfection

Nehru Family in India and Bhutto Clan in Pakistan, have the instinct and an evident air of hereditary regency, Regnancy and Regalia. The latter appeasing the former, occasionally, as if pleasing an akin-ruler or a neighboring king. Remember, Sr Bhutto’s founding declaration of Dynastic Rule by decree “Udhar Tum, Idhar Hum,” ‘you there and we here’ and Begum Nusrat Bhutto (may the ailing elderly lady live long and happy) ordaining “Bhutto Boys are Born to Rule”. Consider and compare Royal lineage and ascent equivalence bar of both Regnant; Indira vs. Bhutto, Indira’s son vs. Bhutto’s daughter and now Indira’s daughter-in-law vs. Bhutto’s son-in-law, both lateral entrants grafted into the respective Royalties!

Musharraf sold and surrendered our sovereignty with stated aims to (a) Safeguard our nuclear assets (b) Keep the Kashmir issue alive. Mr. Zardari and his dispensation, before de-throning and going into oblivion, seem poised to surrender these two, also.

Ijaz-ul-Haq is former Federal Minister and son of former President, General Ziaul Haq. He frequently contributes to Opinion Maker.