[VIDEOS] Pakistan’s future is now linked to China: PM Imran Khan

[Thomaskutty]

Definitely a role model.

It is an amazing tweet .. lavishing praise on a country that engages in real human rights abuse. It just shows what a weird person he is.

Pakistan selected this person to weed out corruption and a naya pakistan, I am afraid this was a false dawn .. the wait for a good leader continues...

 

[saeed5646]

It is an amazing tweet .. lavishing praise on a country that engages in real human rights abuse. It just shows what a weird person he is.

Pakistan selected this person to weed out corruption and a naya pakistan, I am afraid this was a false dawn .. the wait for a good leader continues...

Yes kuty you are right

 

[King-Misbah]

It is an amazing tweet .. lavishing praise on a country that engages in real human rights abuse. It just shows what a weird person he is.

Pakistan selected this person to weed out corruption and a naya pakistan, I am afraid this was a false dawn .. the wait for a good leader continues...

Indian Imran bashing continues, they want an Indian puppet like Nawaz in power so they can destroy Pakistan.

 

[Syed1]

It is an amazing tweet .. lavishing praise on a country that engages in real human rights abuse. It just shows what a weird person he is.

Pakistan selected this person to weed out corruption and a naya pakistan, I am afraid this was a false dawn .. the wait for a good leader continues...

First of all we don't need Indians to tell us what's best for Pakistan. Pakistan is making great strides obviously your media won't show it.


Also quite rich when an Indian talks about human rights. Your country has placed 8 million people in a lockdown. Earlier this year 50 odd people were killed in your capital just because they were Muslims. Even lower caste Hindus aren't safe in Hindutva India where they are raped and lynched.


Indians talk as if their country is Sweden or Norway while they are worse than South Sudan or other African countries.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the Chinese model of development suits Pakistan's needs the best.

"If we can learn from any one country in the world, it is China. Their development model suits Pakistan the best," he said while speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad on Friday. "The speed with which China developed in the last 30 years is something we can learn from," the premier said, adding that Beijing had managed to prove that poverty alleviation is true development.

Relocation of Chinese industries to Pakistan

PM Imran Khan said the government was looking to guide relocation of Chinese industries to Pakistan, similar to how China relocated industries to Vietnam. "For this purpose, we have launched special economic zones (SEZs). Next, we aim to convince them to export from Pakistan."

The premier regretted that no government had tried to boost exports in the past 50 years. "This is why we have to go to International Monetary Fund - when our imports outweigh exports and create a current account deficit."

PM Imran Khan said the government would hold discussions with the Chinese officials on increasing exports in the short term. "Pakistan has great potential," he stressed.

Boosting agricultural sector

Noting that Pakistan is an agricultural country, the prime minister regretted that the previous government had ignored the sector. "We are working with China on increasing our productivity and using their technology," he said. "The next phase the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) includes agricultural sector."

2021 will be the year for Pakistan's economic growth
The prime minister said 2021 would be a year of economic growth, emphasising that the country was already moving in the right direction as essential industries increased productivity.

Giving example of the construction sector, PM Imran Khan said an increase in cement sales was a clear sign that construction activity is on the rise.

He said the textile industry too was producing at full capacity for the first time in many years, resulting in a "shortage of labour" in the sector.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/327542-chinese-development-model-suits-pakistan-pm-imran-khan

 

[MenInG]

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday lauded the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for offering a unique model of governance, terming it an alternative to Western democracy.

The premier's remarks came as he addressed Chinese journalists on the occasion of Beijing marking the centenary of the ruling party.

"Until now, we had been told that the best way for societies to improve was through Western democracy," PM Imran said.

"The CCP has introduced an alternative model and they have beaten all Western democracies in the way they have highlighted merit in society," he added.

The prime minister observed that a society can only achieve success when it brings about a system to hold the ruling elite accountable.

"The CCP achieved better without democracy. Their system for sifting through talent and bringing it up is better than the democratic system," he said.

PM Imran went on to say, "In our society and in Western democracies, it is difficult to bring change as you are bound by rules and regulations," and added that democracies of today plan only for "the next five years".

“Leader's achievements speak for themselves and that’s what President Xi Jinping has proved to the world,” he remarked.

‘Won’t take sides’

Imran said China always stood with Pakistan when the country was in trouble. “Even now politically and on the international forums, the two countries stand together.”

"You see a strange great power rivalry in the region. The United States is wary of China and has formed a regional alliance.”

"We think that it is unfair of the US and Western powers to expect countries like Pakistan to take sides," said the prime minister. "Pakistan will not downgrade its relations with China."

He observed that the idea for India to act as a counterbalance could prove to be "detrimental"

"China is too strong. India will reap far greater benefits by engaging in trade with China rather than trying to act as a counterbalance. If anyone is going to lose out, it will be India."

Imran, however, made it clear that Islamabad’s ties with China had nothing to do with India. "Our relationship is a bilateral relationship. It is extremely strong."

Muslims in Xinjiang

The premier, while commenting on the situation of Muslims in China's Xinjiang, said through interaction with Chinese officials, the government knows that what’s happening in Xinjiang is completely different to the version given by the Western media and the Western governments.

“So, because we have a very strong relationship with China and because we have a relationship based trust, we actually accept the Chinese version.”

“What they say about their programs in Xinjiang, we accept it.”

“Secondly, we find it a little bit hypocritical. When there are much worse human rights issues in the world, which [should] get more attention, for instance, Kashmir is a huge human rights issue.”

"Western media hardly comments on this [Kashmir]," he added.

US pullout from Afghanistan

When asked about the situation in Afghanistan, the premier said, “Unfortunately no one has the answer right now.”

He went on to add that the US' attempt to find a military solution to Afghanistan’s situation was its "biggest mistake".

"They kept doing the same thing over and over and over again and thought they would get a different result,” PM remarked.

Historically, he noted, the people of Afghanistan have been resistant to “being dictated from the outside". “You can invade Afghanistan, but once you are there it is a very difficult country to control.”

He stressed that the Afghan war had gone on for too long and created deep divisions in Afghan society. “Now when they think they have won the war, it is very difficult from Pakistan’s point of view to make them reach a political settlement.”

Premier expressed Pakistan’s concern about a possible civil war in Afghanistan. In a scenario like this, Pakistan would suffer the most, he said.

'Strengthening ties'

Earlier, the premier felicitated Chinese President Xi Jinping and the CCP. "In Pakistan, we admire the Chinese president for two reasons: for his fight against corruption and for bringing people out of poverty."

Pakistan, he added, was committed to strengthening relations with China in both the political and economic sphere.

"The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project," PM said and announced his trip to Gwadar next week to oversee development work.

“I’m also looking forward to my visit to China,” he added.

According to the premier, he sees the economic relations with Beijing moving forward. "The next phase of CPEC is very exciting for Pakistan. We plan to attract Chinese investment for special economic zones as our labour is cheaper."

On the agricultural ties, PM Imran said, "China's agricultural productivity is much higher, and I hope that we can benefit from the latest techniques and technology".

Covid-19
“The way China coped with the Covid-19 situation is unique and the country really stands out.”

PM Imran said that Pakistan is really thankful to China the way they helped Pakistan.”

“Thanks to China, we were able to vaccinate the healthcare workers and doing so gave us a lot of confidence.”

https://tribune.com.pk/story/230826...for-offering-alternative-to-western-democracy

 

[Itachi]

is he hinting on one political party system and disallowing others?

 

[mazkhan]

So basically he wants a dictatorship where the people cannot vote for the leader and he can be the supreme gaddafi type leader.

So again it's the military generals incharge who have never won a war and don't squat all to lift pakistanis out of poverty and create meaningful jobs then beg the gcc countries to take in pakistani workers, basically a large human trafficking ring exploiting poor people and gcc are now shunning these requests .

China will loot Pakistan dry, they are at the stage western countries were at In expanding and then exploiting world resources so far they have given some infastructure benefits later once their military is advanced to usa level they will go around the world colonising and taking over areas .

Just hope our generals know what they are doing they cozied up to Americans and got slapped, cozied up to the gcc got slapped by those sheikhs and now China is the saviour.

Chinese by nature are very money oriented people they are stingy by nature I don't buy they will do free favours .

 

[Last Monetarist]

Obviously I will not pretend that other politicians in Pakistan would necessarily disagree with the PM if the boot was on the other foot, but this level of hypocrisy is as horrific as it gets, especially after he spent years railing against the dictatorship of Musharraf.

If people still can't see that the emperor has no clothes, then I'm afraid they are beyond help and they should hang their heads in shame.

 

[Itachi]

IK is too much influenced by China.

Pakistanis should just hope that China has good intention in their heart because if it goes for too long, unofficially Pakistan can become a province of China.

 

[Local.Dada]

It’s not about the content itself of what IK says. I mean it’s easy for us to sit and judge but he has his own obligations to be China. It’s about how he articulates it. Doesn’t seem very impressive.

There are posters on PP who can make a better case and argue their case way better.

I am surprised because obviously these politicians have some highly intelligent writers/advisers giving them notes. Either IK has to fire that person or he doesn’t listen to them and comes up with his own rhetoric.

 

[Itachi]

It’s not about the content itself of what IK says. I mean it’s easy for us to sit and judge but he has his own obligations to be China. It’s about how he articulates it. Doesn’t seem very impressive.

There are posters on PP who can make a better case and argue their case way better.

I am surprised because obviously these politicians have some highly intelligent writers/advisers giving them notes. Either IK has to fire that person or he doesn’t listen to them and comes up with his own rhetoric.

Those posters used to be on IK side. They have lost trust on him now. His current followers doesn't have much intelligence so whatever he says, they take it as words written in stone.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

IK is too much influenced by China.

Pakistanis should just hope that China has good intention in their heart because if it goes for too long, unofficially Pakistan can become a province of China.

Perhaps they will fare better as a province of China. I have often argued this might be a better alternative for India as well as clearly Pakistan has been considered a failed state sponsor of terror from their POV.

 

[Itachi]

Perhaps they will fare better as a province of China.

That will be an insult to Mr. Jinnah and Pakistani freedom fighters from pov of Pakistan.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

That will be an insult to Mr. Jinnah and Pakistani freedom fighters from pov of Pakistan.

It would be, but I don't think Pakistan will actually be an official province of China, it will remain independent partner, and that would probably be not so far from the secular vision of Pakistan that Mr Jinnah envisioned.

 

[Itachi]

It would be, but I don't think Pakistan will actually be an official province of China, it will remain independent partner, and that would probably be not so far from the secular vision of Pakistan that Mr Jinnah envisioned.

secular.... yes. People have to be.

 

[Local.Dada]

It would be, but I don't think Pakistan will actually be an official province of China, it will remain independent partner, and that would probably be not so far from the secular vision of Pakistan that Mr Jinnah envisioned.

) this is the secular vision of Jinnah?. While I personally think Jinnah was way more academically qualified and on that basis alone smarter than Nehru but we Indians may want to steal the credit here for Jinnah stealing the “secular Hind-Cheeni bhai bhai model” from Nehru.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

) this is the secular vision of Jinnah?. While I personally think Jinnah was way more academically qualified and on that basis alone smarter than Nehru but we Indians may want to steal the credit here for Jinnah stealing the “secular Hind-Cheeni bhai bhai model” from Nehru.

You may refer to the Qaid as Mr Jinnah as per Admin request, but if you prefer not to, I won't comment again.

Mr Jinnah's vision was first espoused the best part of a century ago, the world is a lot different today so it is ignorant to pretend we know what his vision would be today. We can only contemplate, you as a hindutva, I as a Brit of Pakistani origin. I am sure everyone has their own view, and all are entitled to their opinion, but Imran's responsibility is the welfare of Pakistan, as I'm sure Mr Jinnah's would have been in the previous century.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday praised China for being a "role model" for developing countries in poverty alleviation.

In a video message on the 20th anniversary of Juncao Assistance and Sustainable Development Cooperation, the premier said: "China is a role model for developing countries in poverty alleviation. China's remarkable growth has brought 800 million people out of poverty over the past four decades."

He said the world at large, but particularly the global South, was grappling with "multiple challenges" including climate change, poverty and food insecurity.

The prime minister added that extreme poverty had been steadily declining over the past two decades due to relentless efforts.

"However, [the] Covid-19 pandemic triggered an economic meltdown which has slowed down global progress. Extreme poverty rose in 2020 for the first time in over 20 years," he said.

Thus, the achievement of food security and improved nutrition has become an even "greater challenge" for developing countries, he said.

"Sustainable ways of achieving economic recovery, growth and development are critical during the pandemic."

He commended China for sharing the Juncao technology with over 100 countries, saying it had already "benefited thousands of people across the continents over the past 20 years".

Juncao, which is famed as "magic grass", is two Chinese characters meaning "mushroom" and "grass". The particular breed of grass was discovered by Chinese scientists to be an economical and environment-friendly substitute for timber, traditionally used as a substrate for growing mushrooms.

He said the Juncao technology had a number of advantages such as helping small-scale farmers to develop low-cost, commercially viable mushroom cultivation and combatting desertification.

"I am pleased to note that innovative Juncao technology [...] suits our society and economy. Such innovative, affordable and eco-friendly technologies may help catalyse our progress towards achieving the first two sustainable development goals: no poverty and zero hunger."

The premier said China's leadership and role in tackling climate change were also appreciable and commended President Xi Jinping's vision of a "prosperous, clean and beautiful world".

He added that tackling poverty alleviation and climate change were among the "key priorities" of the PTI government.

Commenting on the initiatives launched under the Ehsaas social safety programme, he said that the schemes focused on "uplifting marginalised people, eradicating poverty and supporting vulnerable households" and had cushioned people from economic shocks during the pandemic.

Measures such as the government's National Poverty Graduation Programme could play a vital role in collaboration with the Juncao technology, the premier said.

The prime minister also pointed out the government's initiatives in tackling climate change and stressed that Pakistan "fully supports international efforts to combat the scourge".

He said that one billion trees had been planted under the government's 10 Billion Tree Tsunami programme to expand and restore forests.

"Our green initiatives resonate with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. We hope it will contribute to preventing, halting and reversing the degradation of ecosystems," he said.

The prime minister said he was strongly resolved and committed to international cooperation aimed at poverty alleviation, sustainable growth and addressing climate change.

Additional input from APP

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On behalf of my govt & the people of Pakistan our warmest greetings to the leadership & people of China on their 72nd Chinese National Day. The historic Pak-China friendship runs deep and strong as we work together for peace and economic prosperity for our people and our region.</p>— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1444005521011392516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

Federal Planning Minister Asad Umar on Wednesday addressed concerns over loans Islamabad has received from Beijing under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project, saying Pakistan does not have a "Chinese debt problem" as claimed by a western think-tank in its report.

In a press conference flanked by CPEC Authority head Khalid Mansoor, the planning minister said the report raised questions on transparency, debt sustainability, and 'secret loans' to Pakistan under CPEC.

According to Umar, the report also claimed that Pakistan borrowed money from China on commercial rates.


Speaking about the workings of the project, Umar said CPEC is a transparent project under parliamentary oversight.

The Senate Committee on Planning, NA body, and joint parliamentary body get reports about the project on a regular basis, Umar said, adding that Pakistan also shared information on CPEC loans with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Talking about power projects established under CPEC, the minister said all the information, tariff, cost and the financing structure was available on the NEPRA website.

Referring to the claims of 'secret loans', the minister said perhaps the report is calling the "sovereign guarantees" by the state as 'secret loans' as the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) is a state-owned authority.

Umar maintained that Pakistan gave sovereign guarantees to Independent Power Plants (IPPs) set up by non-Chinese companies in the past, adding that no preferential treatment was meted out to Chinese companies.

During the presser, Umar divided the Chinese loans into two categories: private loans and government-to-government loans. He said power projects under CPEC have an average 4pc interest rate, adding the non-Chinese finance agencies, such as the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, lent Pakistan money on higher interest rates than China.

According to Umar, Chinese financing in power projects has "slightly" lower interest rates than other money lending agencies. About government-to-government loans, China lent Pakistan money under government concessional loans and preferential bias credit at 2pc, while bias credit was lent at 5.2pc, making an average of 2.4pc.

He said if grants given to Pakistan by China are to be included in the figures, it comes down to 1.98pc.

The planning minister further said that Chinese loans account for 10pc of Pakistan's total debt, while as far as external debt liabilities are concerned, Chinese loans account for 26pc whereas 74pc is owed to western donors.

"Pakistan does have a debt sustainability challenge, but it is not due to Chinese loans," Umar said, adding that it was due to "Pakistan's own problems".

According to Umar, Pakistan did not make a China-centric policy for its power projects as everyone was invited to invest in the sector.

CPEC Authority head Khalid Mansoor said in the Thar and Hub power projects, Pakistan bought equipment from US' General Electric as China was "flexible". He also termed the report "misleading".

Speaking about Phase-II of CPEC, Umar said during the second phase, more jobs will be generated as investments will be made in the telecommunications, textile and agricultural sectors and added that another investment in the IT sector will be made that would create thousands of jobs.

The planning minister also said CPEC projects were delayed due to Covid-19 and Pakistan was willing to make CPEC a "regional corridor" instead of just a bilateral project.

 

[Technics 1210]

And? India’s future depends on foreign investment - what’s the point here?

 

[JaDed]

And? India’s future depends on foreign investment - what’s the point here?

Those are Imran Khan’s words not a poster’s words, not sure what’s your question here?

 

[OMB]

Stick to the topic, take no more risks

 

[Napa]

And? India’s future depends on foreign investment - what’s the point here?

The point is the difference in doing business and getting investments from IBM, Accenture, Microsoft, Google, Oracle and Amazon on one hand and the Chinese on the other hand.

If you don’t know how the Chinese do business, you will find out. Good luck, you will need it.

 

[MenInG]

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Gujranwala to witness the commissioning of a state of the art Chinese origin VT-4 Tank into Strike Formation, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.

“VT-4 Tank is another symbol of Pakistan-China strategic cooperation and defence collaboration, and its induction will boost strike capabilities of our formations,” Gen Qamar was cited by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) as saying.

He also witnessed the demonstration of the VT-4 Tank which is a “robust warfighting machine”.

The army chief also said, “The fast-changing dynamics of warfare demand the highest degree of professionalism and rigorous training with due focus on harnessing sophisticated technologies.”

Based on its advanced armour protection, high manoeuvrability and exceptional firepower, VT-4 can be compared with any modern main battle tank of the world, the ISPR added.

Equipped with an auto transmission system and deep water fording operation capability, it is considered “as a potent weapon of strike formations”.

The COAS also visited the Dynamic Integrated Training Simulator of VT-4.

Interacting with officers and troops, he said continuous up-gradation of conventional capabilities is “imperative for maintaining a qualitative edge over the adversary and deter aggression”.

 

[sharmaji]

PM Imran, Xi Jinping agree to further cement bilateral ties


Premier renews invitation to Chinese president to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience

Pakistan and China agreed on Tuesday to further strengthen bilateral economic and commercial ties, including fully realising the potential offered by the Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement to overcome economic headwinds.

The resolve came during a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

During the conversation, PM Imran congratulated President Xi on the centenary of the Communist Party of China, the unprecedented victory in the Chinese people’s battle to eradicate absolute poverty, and appreciated China’s stellar development in four decades of reform and opening up.

"The Prime Minister lauded the successful, timely and high-quality implementation of the CPEC projects, and welcomed Chinese investments in the CPEC Special Economic Zones. He underscored that early start of work on the ML-1 railway project would complement Pakistan’s geo-economics vision for national and regional development," the press release added.

PM Imran also appreciated China’s leading role in combating climate change. He briefed President Xi on Pakistan’s wide-ranging measures for climate change mitigation and adaptation, including the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Initiative.

"The two leaders agreed to strengthen Pakistan-China cooperation in the relevant areas and to promote CPEC’s green development as a high quality demonstration of the Belt and Road Initiative," the MoFA added.

The press release further stated that the premier appreciated China’s successful containment of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as relief and assistance measures for the developing countries, including the vaccine cooperation with Pakistan.

"The two leaders also felicitated each other on the important milestone of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, reviewed the entire gamut of the bilateral strategic cooperative partnership, and discussed the regional and international situation," the MoFA added.

Regarding the situation in Afghanistan, both leaders called on the international community to provide immediate humanitarian and economic assistance to the Afghan people to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability and flight of people, as well as continued engagement for the rebuilding of the country.

PM Imran stressed the need to continue with the momentum of high-level exchanges to further diversify “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between the two countries.

The premier renewed his invitation to President Xi to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2326461/pm-imran-xi-jinping-agree-to-further-cement-bilateral-ties?_gl=1*gxqfgz*_ga*YW1wLWVaa0lBOG0wRk1ybGE2QjVVUXd1TUs5X2RoMWxwd2RCMHZFeS1HVnpTSTdlOXdJV19VSmJRbzRROVktUFZYUlI

 

[Romali_rotti]

PM Imran, Xi Jinping agree to further cement bilateral ties


Premier renews invitation to Chinese president to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience

Pakistan and China agreed on Tuesday to further strengthen bilateral economic and commercial ties, including fully realising the potential offered by the Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement to overcome economic headwinds.

The resolve came during a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

During the conversation, PM Imran congratulated President Xi on the centenary of the Communist Party of China, the unprecedented victory in the Chinese people’s battle to eradicate absolute poverty, and appreciated China’s stellar development in four decades of reform and opening up.

"The Prime Minister lauded the successful, timely and high-quality implementation of the CPEC projects, and welcomed Chinese investments in the CPEC Special Economic Zones. He underscored that early start of work on the ML-1 railway project would complement Pakistan’s geo-economics vision for national and regional development," the press release added.

PM Imran also appreciated China’s leading role in combating climate change. He briefed President Xi on Pakistan’s wide-ranging measures for climate change mitigation and adaptation, including the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Initiative.

"The two leaders agreed to strengthen Pakistan-China cooperation in the relevant areas and to promote CPEC’s green development as a high quality demonstration of the Belt and Road Initiative," the MoFA added.

The press release further stated that the premier appreciated China’s successful containment of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as relief and assistance measures for the developing countries, including the vaccine cooperation with Pakistan.

"The two leaders also felicitated each other on the important milestone of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, reviewed the entire gamut of the bilateral strategic cooperative partnership, and discussed the regional and international situation," the MoFA added.

Regarding the situation in Afghanistan, both leaders called on the international community to provide immediate humanitarian and economic assistance to the Afghan people to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability and flight of people, as well as continued engagement for the rebuilding of the country.

PM Imran stressed the need to continue with the momentum of high-level exchanges to further diversify “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between the two countries.

The premier renewed his invitation to President Xi to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2326461/pm-imran-xi-jinping-agree-to-further-cement-bilateral-ties?_gl=1*gxqfgz*_ga*YW1wLWVaa0lBOG0wRk1ybGE2QjVVUXd1TUs5X2RoMWxwd2RCMHZFeS1HVnpTSTdlOXdJV19VSmJRbzRROVktUFZYUlI

Heard Xi has not left China in over 600 days ? He is apparently scared that, the minute he leaves China there would be a coup against him and when he returns he will be arrested and never seen again... Americans along with other countries are working with Xi's enemies in China to take him out, there is no way he will be leaving China anytime soon... Phone calls and zoom meetings from China will have to do for now..

 

[sharmaji]

Source?

Heard Xi has not left China in over 600 days ? He is apparently scared that, the minute he leaves China there would be a coup against him and when he returns he will be arrested and never seen again... Americans along with other countries are working with Xi's enemies in China to take him out, there is no way he will be leaving China anytime soon... Phone calls and zoom meetings from China will have to do for now..

 

[Last Monetarist]

Source?

Here you go:

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-09-09/xi-jinping-hasn-t-set-foot-outside-china-for-600-days

 

[MenInG]

Pakistan has paid over Rs26 billion in interest cost to China for using a $4.5 billion Chinese trade finance facility to repay maturing debt in the last fiscal year - a cost that the country is bearing due to the failure of successive governments to place the economy on a solid footing.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday released its annual financial statement for fiscal year 2020-21 that ended on June 30.

The report revealed that the central bank fully tapped the $4.5 billion, or 30 billion yuan, trade finance facility available under the China-Pakistan currency swap arrangement.

“During the year, the overall limit of 20 billion yuan has been further extended to 30 billion yuan for a period of three years against the rupee with the maturity buckets of three months to one year,” said the financial statement. “These purchases have been fully utilised as at June 30, 2021.”

It added that Rs26.1 billion interest was charged on the outstanding balance at agreed rates.

In rupee terms, the bilateral currency swap value increased from Rs476.6 billion in the preceding year to Rs748.5 billion by June this year - an increase of Rs272 billion in a single year, according to the central bank.

Out of the Rs748.5 billion, the interest-bearing component was Rs731 billion, said the SBP.

Pakistan largely utilised the Chinese trade finance facility to repay foreign debt and keep its gross foreign currency reserves at comfortable levels.

The $4.5 billion facility is part of the SBP’s $17.1 billion in gross official foreign exchange reserves. China has also extended $4 billion worth of SAFE deposits, which are also part of the $17.1 billion reserves.

By excluding these loans, the central bank’s foreign exchange reserves remain thin.

The trade facility, originally meant to promote bilateral trade in respective local currencies, has been used for paying foreign debt. In fiscal year 2019-20, Pakistan paid Rs20.6 billion in interest on using the $3 billion facility.

Read China to build base for Tajikistan near Afghan border

However, during the last fiscal year, the Chinese currency swap limit was extended to $4.5 billion after Pakistan approached China to help it repay the maturing Saudi Arabian debt.

In December last year, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan and China had agreed to augment the size of a 2011 bilateral currency swap agreement (CSA) by an additional 10 billion Chinese yuan or around $1.5 billion

The benefit of this arrangement was that the additional $1.5 billion Chinese loan would not reflect on the books of the federal government and it would not be treated as part of Pakistan’s external public debt.

Saudi Arabia had provided $6.2 billion worth of financial packages to Pakistan for three years in 2018. This included $3 billion in cash assistance and $3.2 billion worth of annual oil and gas supply on deferred payments.

But the Kingdom had claimed back its money ahead of schedule. Pakistan was paying 3.2% interest on the $3 billion facility, according to the information that the Ministry of Finance shared with the National Assembly.

Pakistan had returned the Saudi Arabian loan after taking an equal amount of loan from China.

Saudi Arabia has now again extended a $4.2 billion financial package for one year on the same terms, Finance Adviser Shaukat Tarin said on Wednesday.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, like its predecessors, has failed to tap non-debt creating inflows, which has exposed the country to various risks. The exports are growing at a pace that is far lower than the imports while the foreign direct investment too remains stagnant for the past three years. The foreign remittances were the only non-debt creating source that was exceptionally growing well.

The existing $17 billion worth of official foreign currency reserves have largely been built through borrowing, including from private commercial banks.

The government has not been able to get the suspended $6 billion IMF programme restored. The IMF and Pakistan were sticking to their positions however the fresh Saudi Arabian package of $4.2 billion has provided relief, reversing rupee depreciation by Rs3.7 to a dollar in just three days.

However, the sustainability of the rupee against the US dollar would depend upon whether the government finds some durable solution to its external sector problems or not.

The delay in restoring the IMF programme could undermine programme loans from the other two multilateral creditors, which were critical for maintaining the borrowed foreign exchange reserves at their current levels.

The SBP’s report stated that a bilateral currency swap agreement (CSA) was entered between the Bank and the Peoples Bank of China in December 2011 in order to promote bilateral trade, finance direct investment, provide short term liquidity support and for any other purpose mutually agreed between the two central banks.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 30th, 2021.

 

[Napa]

Borrowing from China, Saudis, IMF and "other two multilateral creditors". This sounds rather like an acquaintance who borrowed from his friends and family while also maxing out his credit cards. Spending more than he earned did not end well for him.

Pakistan needs to develop modern industries which will generate export earnings if it wants to get out of the cycle of periodic financial crises.

 

[LaLoco]

Borrowing from China, Saudis, IMF and "other two multilateral creditors". This sounds rather like an acquaintance who borrowed from his friends and family while also maxing out his credit cards. Spending more than he earned did not end well for him.

Pakistan needs to develop modern industries which will generate export earnings if it wants to get out of the cycle of periodic financial crises.

Exactly, wonder what Pakistan waiting for as if Pakistan have no capacity to understand, which country wouldn’t like to acquired modern industries, particularly a country whose PM kept highlighting China getting over 700 million out of poverty.

I guess Pakistani think tank aren’t as smart as random people on the forum.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Borrowing from China, Saudis, IMF and "other two multilateral creditors". This sounds rather like an acquaintance who borrowed from his friends and family while also maxing out his credit cards. Spending more than he earned did not end well for him.

Pakistan needs to develop modern industries which will generate export earnings if it wants to get out of the cycle of periodic financial crises.

Agreed. But Pakistan may learn the lesson of Iran and Afghanistan who have $billions of frozen assets abroad in US and Europe that lives are less important than politics in some parts of the world.

 

[srh]

Pakistan's future is not linked to any country whether its China or USA or any other country. Imran Khan some times show foot-in-mouth disease and this is one such example.

 

[RexRex]

Agreed. But Pakistan may learn the lesson of Iran and Afghanistan who have $billions of frozen assets abroad in US and Europe that lives are less important than politics in some parts of the world.

Iran and Afghanistan have their assets frozen due to US-hostile governments in place. Why would Pakistan fear that since they consider themselves an ally of the US ?

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Iran and Afghanistan have their assets frozen due to US-hostile governments in place. Why would Pakistan fear that since they consider themselves an ally of the US ?

I said learn the lessons, not fear the US.

 

[saeedhk]

We will forever rely on donations from abroad to feed our people! It is utterly shameful that we cannot pay our bills and feed our people!

Khan made this statement because our masters have changed. If tomorrow, Israel promises Shekels, I am sure our master would change again. As I have said many times before, this country has no morals or any kind of ethics if you ask me, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan never refuses money! This is the reason why we have no standing in the world and we are known as being untrustworthy.

 

[Lonewarrior]

[Video] China Celebrates 70 Years of Diplomatic Ties With Pakistan in Style

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A grand thematic light show on the landmark buildings and Yangtze River bridge in Wuhan to celebrate 70 years of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations. <br>⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_China?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MFA_China</a>⁩ <br>⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/zlj517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zlj517</a>⁩ <br>⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/xiaotianphoenix?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@xiaotianphoenix</a>⁩ <br>⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/AmbNong?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbNong</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/xUUD4qVDnG">pic.twitter.com/xUUD4qVDnG</a></p>— Moin ul Haque (@PakAmbChina) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakAmbChina/status/1455207236549087237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sino-Pak Friendship Square inaugurated in Wuhan today. First of its kind in China, the Square artistically blends elements of two countries landmarks & national images. A true symbol of unique friendship.<a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SMQureshiPTI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ForeignOfficePk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/zlj517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zlj517</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/xiaotianphoenix?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@xiaotianphoenix</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbNong?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbNong</a> <a href="https://t.co/FkWu1hX5e3">pic.twitter.com/FkWu1hX5e3</a></p>— Moin ul Haque (@PakAmbChina) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakAmbChina/status/1455425182726819848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The grand thematic light show in Wuhan, capital city of Hubei province marking 70 years of China Pakistan diplomatic ties. <a href="https://t.co/lpnBqZjRc8">pic.twitter.com/lpnBqZjRc8</a></p>— Beautiful Pakistan (@PakistanInPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakistanInPeace/status/1455572061431242765?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>



China-Pakistan Friendship Square inaugurated in Wuhan

Source: Xinhua| 2021-11-02 20:17:59|Editor: huaxia

WUHAN, Nov. 2 (Xinhua) -- The China-Pakistan Friendship Square was unveiled in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province, on Tuesday, as part of the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan.
The square, located beside the Yangtze River in the city center, is the first China-Pakistan Friendship Square in China.
Covering an area of about 10,000 square meters, the square has set statues, lampposts and seats featuring cultural elements from both countries.
Among the statues is one in the form of two shaking hands, commemorating the 70 years of China-Pakistan friendship. With the red hand representing China and the green one symbolizing Pakistan, the statue conveys the idea that the two countries are friends standing together through thick and thin.
On either side of the square are sculptures of the Chinese sturgeon, the national first-class protected wildlife, and the Markhor, the national animal of Pakistan. With the two precious animals looking at each other, the sculptures imply that the two countries keep watch for and help one another.
"It's a historic day today," said Moin ul Haque, Pakistani Ambassador to China. "The square truly reflects the great affinity, the great solidarity and most importantly the deep love, trust and respect between our two countries and peoples."
Haque said that a similar friendship square is being established in Karachi, the biggest city in Pakistan, and will be inaugurated soon.
According to Feng Xiguo, deputy director of the Hubei Provincial Foreign Affairs Office, Hubei and Pakistan have frequent exchanges and extensive trade cooperation.
As of September 2021, Pakistan had invested in 75 enterprises in Hubei, with a total contracted investment of 15.14 million U.S. dollars. And in the first three quarters of this year, Hubei's imports and exports with Pakistan reached 3.87 billion yuan (around 605 million U.S. dollars), up 146.9 percent from the same period last year, according to Wuhan Customs.
In 2016, when Hubei was hit by floods, the Pakistani government donated 10,000 tonnes of rice to the disaster areas. In early 2020, after the outbreak of COVID-19, masks donated by the Pakistani government and people reached Hubei urgently. Once the epidemic was under control in Hubei, the province promptly donated masks, protective suits and other supplies to Pakistan, and sent medical teams to support the country's fight against the epidemic.
"The province of Hubei and the city of Wuhan have a very special place in the hearts of the people of Pakistan," said Haque. "They admire your resilience, courage and efficiency in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Your courage and discipline in achieving a great victory in the people's war against the pandemic was a beacon of hope for the entire world."
During his visit to Hubei this time, Haque said he would also attend a commendation ceremony for the medical teams from the city of Yichang in Hubei, who had stayed in Pakistan for a year to assist them with fighting the pandemic.
Regarding the unveiling of the China-Pakistan Friendship Square, Feng said: "The iron-clad brotherhood between China and Pakistan will always be remembered in the hearts of the Chinese and Pakistani people. Hubei will strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in fields such as infrastructure construction, agriculture, technology and education in the future."
At the square's unveiling ceremony, Haque signed letters of intent for friendly relations with two cities in Hubei. Cooperation agreements between universities and medical companies were also signed by representatives of the two countries.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

A disgusting nation the antithesis of an 'Islamic Republic'. Need to cut ties immediately

 

[SpiritOf1903]

While Pakistan deems #CongratulationsPakistan from a nation as abhorrent as China over their treatment of Uyghurs, maybe World Cups are not worthy

 

[rhony]

Borrowing from China, Saudis, IMF and "other two multilateral creditors". This sounds rather like an acquaintance who borrowed from his friends and family while also maxing out his credit cards. Spending more than he earned did not end well for him.

Pakistan needs to develop modern industries which will generate export earnings if it wants to get out of the cycle of periodic financial crises.

China should have offloaded some of their manufacturing to Pakistan instead of Vietnam or Thailand or Bangladesh. That's what a true friend would have done. It's important to start with labor intensive industries to provide employment while attracting FDI for the modern industries. I think that's where the failure of Imran Khan is. He couldn't leverage his friendship with China to setup industries moving out of China.

 

[transparent opacity]

Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday that Pakistan would support Chinese businesses in the country on a priority basis and appreciated them for their keen interest in accelerating investment in Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

The premier’s remarks came during a meeting with a Chinese business delegation led by Chen Yan from Challenge Fashion.

”Pakistan and China are connected not only in past or present but we will remain united through our future generations too,” PM Imran said. “We appreciate the valuable relationship of the peoples of two countries.”

Furthermore, the prime minister directed the authorities concerned to facilitate all Chinese investors, who are setting up industries in Pakistan, on an emergency basis by resolving their issues related to road connectivity and the provision of utilities.

Earlier, PM Imran was apprised that Chinese businessmen are almost ready to start operations in the glass, ceramics and information technology sectors

It is worth mentioning that OPPO, one of the leading tech manufacturers in the world, is going to establish a local mobile manufacturing unit and a research and development centre in Pakistan.

It would not only save a lot of foreign exchange reserves on the import of smartphones annually but would also create employment opportunities for our tech graduates.

The meeting was also attended by Energy Minister Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Advisor on Commerce Abdul Razzak Dawood, SAPM on Political Communication Dr Shehbaz Gill, SAPM on CPEC Affairs Khalid Mansoor and Chinese Ambassador H.E Mr Nong Rong. along with senior officers concerned.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/233029...RCMHZFeS1HVnpTSTdlOXdJV19VSmJRbzRROVktUFZYUlI

 

[MenInG]

The US Commerce Department put a dozen Chinese companies on its trade blacklist on Wednesday citing national security concerns and in some cases their help with the Chinese military's quantum computing efforts.

The department also said 16 entities and individuals from China and Pakistan were added to the blacklist for contributing to Pakistan's nuclear activities or ballistic missile programme.

In total, 27 new entities were added to the list from China, Japan, Pakistan, and Singapore.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement that the move will help prevent US technology from supporting the development of Chinese and Russian "military advancement and activities of non-proliferation concern like Pakistan's unsafeguarded nuclear activities or ballistic missile program".

The Commerce Department said Hangzhou Zhongke Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Hunan Goke Microelectronics, New H3C Semiconductor Technologies Co. Ltd., Xi'an Aerospace Huaxun Technology, and Yunchip Microelectronics were placed on the Commerce Department's entity list for their "support of the military modernisation of the People's Liberation Army".

It also added Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, QuantumCTek, and Shanghai QuantumCTeck Co. Ltd. to the list for "acquiring and attempting to acquire US-origin items in support of military applications".

Suppliers to these companies will need to apply for a license before selling to them, which is likely to be denied.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/233091...allegedly-aiding-pakistans-nuclear-activities

 

[transparent opacity]

China boosting Pakistan's military arsenal by providing assistance: Analyst

As Pakistan is facing more restrictions to get weapons from the US, China has filled the vacuum by proving weapons to boost Islamabad's conventional and nuclear arsenal.

While China has long supplied Pakistan's armed forces, the relationship has deepened in recent years, with Pakistan making major purchases of top-of-the-line Chinese export equipment, according to the National Interest.

"China has sold or licensed to Pakistan the following five weapons program a) Nuclear Weapons Program, b) JF-17 Fighter A-100 c) Multiple Rocket Launcher, d) VT-1A and e) HQ-16," writes Charlie Gao an analyst in the National Interest.

One of the major aspects that Pakistan has focused on military acquisition from China has been on acquiring the necessary Air Defence for its Ground Forces.

Pakistan military has relied primarily on its Air Force for providing the defence of its formation on the ground.

Further, Pakistan is also in negotiations to buy the longer-ranged Chinese HQ-9 system, a Chinese analogue to the Russian S-300 long-range SAM, according to the National Interest.

Earlier, Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons were boosted by China to develop the necessary military deterrent against India starting from the early 1980s which happens to be the highlight of the China-Pakistan nexus.

China provided significant assistance to the Pakistani nuclear weapons program and is alleged to have provided missile components, warhead designs, and even highly-enriched uranium to counter India's Great Power ambitions, according to the National Interest.

It's alleged that China was able to develop Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons facing circumventing the Nuclear Supplier Group's norms.

Ont the other hand, Pakistan which received weapons assistance from the US for the most part of the Cold War has started to look to Beijing for weapons assistance as Washington has started to place more restrictions.

Further, India had also taken exception to the US assisting Pakistan with weapons programs once the Indo-US strategic partnership had started to develop with the end of the Cold War.

https://www.business-standard.com/a...g-assistance-says-analyst-121120100192_1.html

 

[James]

A disgusting nation the antithesis of an 'Islamic Republic'. Need to cut ties immediately

Not that I disagree, but this is not the only concern that is in play. There are international relations, geopolitics and shared real world interests at hand also, which always trump personal principles unfortunately.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday said that Pakistan does not want to take any sides in the US-China ‘cold war’ but instead wants to reduce the growing tensions between the two.

Addressing the Islamabad Conclave 2021, which was themed ‘A Peaceful and Prosperous South Asia’, PM Imran stated that “deteriorating US-China relations, which are heading towards a cold war-like situation, is something Pakistan needs to stop.”

“We should not be in any bloc,” he maintained, recalling the previous Cold War, where joining a bloc was not beneficial for Pakistan.

The premier’s remarks come a day after Islamabad decided to skip the summit on democracy being convened by US President Joe Biden on December 9 and 10.

The Biden administration has invited leaders from over 100 countries. Pakistan was among only four countries from South Asia that were invited to the summit. Others include India, Maldives and Nepal.

China and Russia were excluded from the invitees while Taiwan was extended the invitation, drawing a strong reaction from Beijing.

Addressing the conclave on Thursday, PM Imran said that Pakistan played a “big role” in bringing Iran and Saudi Arabia together and wants to reduce the growing tensions between US and China as well.

“Pakistan wants to hold talks with America and China as we did during the 1970s,” he stated.

While there has always been competition between countries for trade, Pakistan does not want the current situation to escalate to the level witnessed in the first Cold War, warned the premier.

Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis

Talking about the prevalent Afghan crisis, PM Imran delineated that the situation could have been “much worse had a civil war broken out.”

He claimed that Pakistan was “fortunate” that the destruction did not occur on a large scale but reiterated that the destruction Afghans must be saved from was the looming humanitarian crisis due to their “reserves and assets” being frozen.

“We are trying our best to inform the world that in spite of their like or dislike for the Taliban, the primary concern should be the 40 million Afghans, and what they will have to undergo if the current situation persists,” the premier remarked.

Peace in the war-torn country, he emphasised, was important for Pakistan, especially in light of this country's geo-economics goal.

“All central Asian republics wish to have interconnectivity with Pakistan and trade through Gwadar. Peace in Afghanistan is very important for connectivity,” he said.

India and Pakistan

The premier also highlighted that South Asia was held “hostage” by the Kashmir issue.

He claimed that his government “tried very hard” to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi but to no avail.

“I slowly realised that he [Modi] thought our efforts for peace were a sign of weakness,” he said, adding that Islamabad was trying to negotiate with the RSS ideology and not an ‘ordinary’ Indian government.

He further said that this ideology was not just the misfortune of Pakistan and Kashmiris, but also of the myriad of Indian minorities, who are excluded by the “Brahmin RSS ideology”.

“Never in human history has such a large chunk of population been deemed as second-class citizens,” he said, adding that the ideology will create severe repercussions for the Indian society.

Climate change

The premier maintained that his government was the first to flag climate change when it planned the One Billion Tree Tsunami project in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

“We knew 20 years ago that this was a threat when no one had perceived it,” he said, adding that Pakistan was one of the top 10 countries which were most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

He further stated that India too was susceptible to climate change, especially as most of their water came from the Himalayan glaciers, which were rapidly melting.

“Half our water comes from the Karakoram and Suliman mountain ranges, but the majority of India's water comes from the Himalayas”.

He reiterated that “our futures” were connected and climate change needed to be combatted together.

“But I have not seen seriousness in world leaders because their commercial interests clash with the steps necessary to curb climate change,” he said.

“Pakistan is trying its best to combat climate change and is being appreciated globally. However, regions are connected and develop together,” he said, adding that he prays the Indian government will logically talk to Pakistan in this regard.

The premier claimed that the climate issue in Lahore, for example, could not be solved until both the countries came together as pollution cover could be seen over Punjab and Dehli as well.

Need for think-tanks in Pakistan

The premier stated that the country “desperately needed” think-tanks to communicate the positive image of Pakistan to the world.

“It really pains me when think-tanks in America define Pakistan as a country of extremists, especially after 9/11, without knowing much about us or our culture,” he said, adding that this was propaganda from abroad.

“We have never had a cohesive response to this propaganda,” said the premier, adding that there was a dire need for a well-thought-out view regarding the country.

Geostrategic to geo-economic

Speaking at the occasion, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said we need to put human security at the centre of national security strategies as a departure from security-centric policies in efforts to move the region towards development and prosperity.

"Pakistan has shifted its focus to geo-economics and connectivity is the new buzzword. It can provide us with enormous opportunities for national and regional development," he said

FM Qureshi said that regional cooperation is a must for South Asia to prosper.

He emphasised that Pakistan has decided not to be a part of any global or regional conflict, and has chosen to be a partner only in peace and development.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/233314...s-not-want-to-take-sides-in-us-china-cold-war

 

[Last Monetarist]

“We should not be in any bloc,” he maintained, recalling the previous Cold War, where joining a bloc was not beneficial for Pakistan.

Don't know how the Prime Minister keeps a straight face whenever Pakistan's dependence on China is discussed. Honestly don't know whether he's stupid enough to kid himself on this or just playing along because he has the proverbial dagger wedged in his back. Whatever the case, the country can't be shot of him soon enough.

 

[street cricketer]

“We should not be in any bloc,” he maintained, recalling the previous Cold War, where joining a bloc was not beneficial for Pakistan.

The premier’s remarks come a day after Islamabad decided to skip the summit on democracy being convened by US President Joe Biden on December 9 and 10.

The Biden administration has invited leaders from over 100 countries. Pakistan was among only four countries from South Asia that were invited to the summit. Others include India, Maldives and Nepal.

China and Russia were excluded from the invitees while Taiwan was extended the invitation, drawing a strong reaction from Beijing.

The US extended an official invitation to a worldwide meeting for Pakistan, but Pakistan snubbed it.

Looks like someone wasn't happy with Pakistan going to Washington.

 

[Last Monetarist]

The US extended an official invitation to a worldwide meeting for Pakistan, but Pakistan snubbed it.

Looks like someone wasn't happy with Pakistan going to Washington.

The problem for Pakistan is that foreign policy won't change regardless whichever politician is in charge, the intertwining of interests with the CCP is a death spiral for the country.

 

[street cricketer]

The problem for Pakistan is that foreign policy won't change regardless whichever politician is in charge, the intertwining of interests with the CCP is a death spiral for the country.

Well tbh Pak's foreign policy is generally set by its establishment and that has been the case over the years. Imran's domain is the domestic affairs and economy.

 

[Gharib Aadmi]

The US extended an official invitation to a worldwide meeting for Pakistan, but Pakistan snubbed it.

Looks like someone wasn't happy with Pakistan going to Washington.

The problem for Pakistan is that foreign policy won't change regardless whichever politician is in charge, the intertwining of interests with the CCP is a death spiral for the country.

Its because Biden never called IK. Has nothing to do with China, or the establishment. I personally would have sent the FM or the President there, but I agree with IK not attending.

 

[street cricketer]

Its because Biden never called IK. Has nothing to do with China, or the establishment. I personally would have sent the FM or the President there, but I agree with IK not attending.

Yeah no brother

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pakistan declined to attend democracy summit. A real iron brother! <a href="https://t.co/oTjHHlNPM3">pic.twitter.com/oTjHHlNPM3</a></p>— Lijian Zhao 赵立坚 (@zlj517) <a href="https://twitter.com/zlj517/status/1468949314907308036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[transparent opacity]

PM Imran launches Pak-China Business Investment Forum

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday launched the Pak-China Business Investment Forum aimed at enhancing information exchange and promoting communication between businesses of the two countries, thereby opening up new avenues of cooperation.

According to Radio Pakistan, the forum consists of 18 Chinese and 19 Pakistani companies and its objective is to promote sustainable investment, export industry and development of modern technology in Pakistan.

The forum has been formed with the collaboration of the Board of Investment Pakistan and All Pakistan Chinese Enterprises.

Addressing its launching ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister rued that smaller countries were faring much better than Pakistan in exports. "It is very painful for us. How can a country progress when it was not into exports?

He stressed that a country cannot progress until it sells goods to the world.

The prime minister said he was often given feedback from foreign investors about the cumbersome process of investment materialisation in Pakistan. "It takes a lot of time from an agreement to its implementation here, and the time is money for investors. He will turn away if no measures are taken for his facilitation."

PM Imran noted that planning was afoot with the Board of Investment to address the problem.

He informed that the government was now focused to undertake industrialisation and increase its exports.

Pakistan must learn urban planning from China
The premier said that Pakistan must learn urban planning from China to tackle disparity in resource management arising out of rapid population growth.

"Our cities are expanding so rapidly, which will eventually lead to food crisis and a gradual decrease in green areas. China switched to vertical development and saved their land for food development," he pointed out.

He said that he was scheduled to visit China next week, adding "however, the plan is tentative at the moment due to the Covid-19 situation,"

The prime minister said the trip, if it happens, would also focus on urban planning.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1667413/pm-imran-launches-pak-china-business-investment-forum

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan had ordered removal of red-tape hindering Chinese investment in Pakistan, as he prepared to visit Beijing next month to further cement the bilateral ties, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Khalid Mansoor said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the launching of the Chinese enterprises report, Mansoor said that the prime minister ordered the removal of 37 regulations to ensure one-window operation for foreign investors. He added that the prime minister would personally be taking briefings on progress on CPEC projects every 15 days.

The annual ‘APCEA Sustainable Development Report 2021’ has been launched by the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI) and the All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprises Association (APCEA) at a ceremony at the Chinese Embassy. The APCEA represents 200 Chinese companies working in Pakistan.

Mansoor said that he had seen first-hand the work of Chinese enterprises in Pakistan. Through CPEC, the dream of Thar Coal energy became a reality, he said. The CPEC Authority, he added, “is working tirelessly to remove any bottlenecks which may emerge during the execution of the CPEC projects.”

The event was attended by over 100 participants and featured five speeches, including Yang Jiandou,

Chairman APCEA, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Chairman Senate Defence Committee and the Pakistan-China Institute, Khalid Mansoor, Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong and Minister Counselor of Economic Affairs of Chinese Embassy Xie Guoxiang.

The participants were informed that Prime Minister Imran would visit China in February. On the occasion, the speakers welcomed the upcoming visit of the prime minister to China in early February, as it would strengthen the bilateral bond.

Hailing the launch of the report as a good step towards enhancing the understanding of the work being done by Chinese enterprises in Pakistan, the speakers appreciated the role of the APCEA and the PCI for documenting the report.

Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed said that the APCEA report would serve the purpose of presenting facts and nullifying the fiction being propagated by the adversaries of China about CPEC. He pointed to the recently-passed “Strategic Competition Act” by the US Senate through which the US had allocated $300 million for a “Countering China Influence Fund”.

Against this backdrop, he advised the companies to brace themselves for any disinformation campaigns. He also lauded the upcoming development related to the slashing of the long bureaucratic red-tape of 37 rules and regulations and said that it would facilitate and ease the work of Chinese enterprises.

Senator Sayed criticised the boycott of Beijing Olympics by certain Western countries as biased and based on double standards. He said that 2022 is the year of Pakistan’s Platinum Jubilee, in which Pakistan-China ties had always been at the Centre-stage.

Ambassador Nong Rong, said that last year, China and Pakistan held series of celebrations to reinvigorate their time-tested friendship as both the countries marked the 70th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic relations.

Both sides had supported each other in their fight against the global pandemic and pushed forward high quality development of CPEC, he said. China had invested over $25 billion in Pakistan on CPEC projects generating 75,000 jobs, producing 5500kw of electricity and building over 500 kilometres of roads.

Xie Guoxiang told the ceremony that the trade and economic cooperation between two countries had been cemented since the start of CPEC. Chinese enterprises, he maintained, had done marvellous work which could be clearly seen in the report.

Yang Jiandou, Chairman APCEA said that Chinese enterprises had pursued sustainable development strategies in Pakistan and their role was not limited to building motorways and constructing power projects.

The Chinese enterprises had improved people’s livelihood, implemented eco-friendly development, joined hands with Pakistani counterparts to fight pandemic, and helped in developing local education. Moreover, he added, the leadership of APCEA had been committed to enhance the connectivity between Chinese enterprises and the local business bodies.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2337394/pm-to-visit-china-early-next-month

 

[Hassaan HS]

PM Imran Khan to attend Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Beijing

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan will attend the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics as he will visit China from February 3-5, Foreign Office confirmed Thursday.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, addressing a weekly press briefing, said during the prime minister's visit, officials of Islamabad and Beijing would discuss the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), among other matters.The Pakistani prime minister’s presence will be of great significance as some major western countries have decided on the diplomatic boycott of the mega event, set to begin on February 4.

The United States, Britain, Australia, and Canada have announced a diplomatic boycott of the event, while North Korea was the latest country to pull out, citing the pandemic.

Though athletes from around the world will travel to compete in the four-yearly event, no dignitaries from these western countries are expected to watch the Games.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) executive director Kenneth Roth has also urged to join a diplomatic boycott as Beijing is using its upcoming Winter Olympics to "sports wash" and gloss over its "horrible" human rights record.

China's foreign ministry countered Thursday that HRW "has always been full of prejudice".

https://www.geo.tv/latest/393147-pm-imran-khan-to-attend-winter-olympics-opening-ceremony-in-beijing

 

[Chief Destroyer]

Next step is to improve relations with Russia and Iran. Forget about the west or their puppy-dog India.

 

[Napa]

Why Pakistan’s Army Wants the U.S. Back in the Region Jan. 23, 2022 By Arif Rafiq, New York Times

The US extended an official invitation to a worldwide meeting for Pakistan, but Pakistan snubbed it.

Looks like someone wasn't happy with Pakistan going to Washington.

Its because Biden never called IK. Has nothing to do with China, or the establishment. I personally would have sent the FM or the President there, but I agree with IK not attending.

Last month, after Prime Minister Imran Khan declined the Biden administration’s invitation to its Summit for Democracy, the Pakistani television news anchor Kamran Khan posted a video on social media denouncing the “wrong decision,” one he declared was made at China’s behest. (China was not invited to — or happy about — the summit.) The journalist lamented that, with that move, the prime minister had “put Pakistan openly in China’s lap.” He alleged that Beijing’s loans had “entrapped” Islamabad, and he even called for an “audit” of the pros and cons of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which has brought billions of dollars in debt-driven energy and infrastructure investment to Pakistan.

In Pakistan, press freedom and politics lie in a gray area, with red lines carefully managed by the army. With a mere phone call or WhatsApp message, colonels can whip a transgressive editor or lawmaker into line.

So the explicit call to reconsider relations with China by one of Pakistan’s most prominent media voices is no random hot take. It reflects the consent, if not the orders, of the country’s khaki masters. Indeed, Pakistan’s praetorian army would have preferred, according to a retired U.S. diplomat, that Prime Minister Khan had attended President Biden’s summit — to reinvigorate a relationship with a superpower that’s been giving it the cold shoulder.

...

Because as U.S.-China competition intensifies, Pakistan’s army fears getting trapped in a cul-de-sac with Beijing.

...

The army, though, doesn’t seem to hold such grudges. Its focus is the present and the future, which seem foreboding. Pakistan’s economy is sputtering, which could be a recipe for social and political unrest, as well as cuts in military spending.

As the tap from China dries up — given Beijing’s growing aversion to lend to high-risk countries — and Pakistan’s economic woes worsen, much of the army command see Mr. Khan’s hypernationalism as counterproductive truculence, and the military leaders increasingly view him as more of a liability than an asset. This helps explain the overtures to Washington, which include not just the democracy summit messaging but also granting a U.S. diplomat rare access into the tightly controlled, Chinese-operated port of Gwadar.

The army, though, doesn’t seem to hold such grudges. Its focus is the present and the future, which seem foreboding. Pakistan’s economy is sputtering, which could be a recipe for social and political unrest, as well as cuts in military spending.

As the tap from China dries up — given Beijing’s growing aversion to lend to high-risk countries — and Pakistan’s economic woes worsen, much of the army command see Mr. Khan’s hypernationalism as counterproductive truculence, and the military leaders increasingly view him as more of a liability than an asset. This helps explain the overtures to Washington, which include not just the democracy summit messaging but also granting a U.S. diplomat rare access into the tightly controlled, Chinese-operated port of Gwadar.

But the attempted pivot back to America most likely won’t go far. Goodwill in Washington has dried up, especially given Pakistani intelligence’s support for the Taliban. And Islamabad’s sins aren’t the sole driver of the U.S.-Pakistan divorce. Washington has wholeheartedly embraced India, seeking to advance its rise as a global power, even as that country moves toward Hindu nationalist authoritarianism. Time after time, Washington has allowed an “India exception” in its human rights or nuclear proliferation policies, emboldening New Delhi and endangering Islamabad.

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/23/opinion/pakistan-united-states-china.html

2 more points which leads the Pakistani military prefer the US over China:

1) US arms are more advanced than Chinese.

2) China is boring. The Pakistani military wants to again visit New York, California, Florida etc. Those visits dried up after Trump suspended military cooperation.

[MENTION=76058]cricketjoshila[/MENTION] [MENTION=152959]hoshiarpurexpress[/MENTION] [MENTION=151383]Local.Dada[/MENTION]

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

2 more points which leads the Pakistani military prefer the US over China:

1) US arms are more advanced than Chinese.

2) China is boring. The Pakistani military wants to again visit New York, California, Florida etc. Those visits dried up after Trump suspended military cooperation.

[MENTION=76058]cricketjoshila[/MENTION] [MENTION=152959]hoshiarpurexpress[/MENTION] [MENTION=151383]Local.Dada[/MENTION]

Not visits, but to educate their kids as well as buy up some Pizza Franchises ala Papa John and few condos and homes with the dollars. What will you do in China even if you have dollars ?

 

[LaLoco]

2 more points which leads the Pakistani military prefer the US over China:

1) US arms are more advanced than Chinese.

2) China is boring. The Pakistani military wants to again visit New York, California, Florida etc. Those visits dried up after Trump suspended military cooperation.

[MENTION=76058]cricketjoshila[/MENTION] [MENTION=152959]hoshiarpurexpress[/MENTION] [MENTION=151383]Local.Dada[/MENTION]

Not visits, but to educate their kids as well as buy up some Pizza Franchises ala Papa John and few condos and homes with the dollars. What will you do in China even if you have dollars ?

IK will get elected next year, y'all will have to come up with new narrative to waste readers time but I am sure Indian media will provide some juicy content for you all to latch on and repeat like a parrot. lol

 

[Syed1]

IK will get elected next year, y'all will have to come up with new narrative to waste readers time but I am sure Indian media will provide some juicy content for you all to latch on and repeat like a parrot. lol

I mean its been 4 years and these hindutva chest thumpers are still repeating the same mantra. Sad for them they have atleast 6 more years of such parroting

 

[Local.Dada]

I mean its been 4 years and these hindutva chest thumpers are still repeating the same mantra. Sad for them they have atleast 6 more years of such parroting

Hopefully 6 more years of Modi but the people of India and not some third party that will decide if he will stay in power or not. In fact third parties have no say in whatever military, economic decisions are taken. That would be applicable to whoever is in power even if it isn’t Modi. At least the individuality feels good

 

[Syed1]

Hopefully 6 more years of Modi but the people of India and not some third party that will decide if he will stay in power or not. In fact third parties have no say in whatever military, economic decisions are taken. That would be applicable to whoever is in power even if it isn’t Modi. At least the individuality feels good

Imran Khan won from 5 seats all across Pakistan. His party garnered 17 million votes the highest in the history of the country. His party was doing MASSIVE jalsas in the election campaign in 2018, every major opinion poll had him and his party leading the polls.
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.
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.
But
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We should believe Local Dada here because he read on some hindutva news letter that IK was installed by the army.



Baatien caroron ki, dukaan pakoron ki

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

IK will get elected next year, y'all will have to come up with new narrative to waste readers time but I am sure Indian media will provide some juicy content for you all to latch on and repeat like a parrot. lol

Inshallah.I hope Imran Khan remains PM for next 20 more years.

 

[Local.Dada]

Imran Khan won from 5 seats all across Pakistan. His party garnered 17 million votes the highest in the history of the country. His party was doing MASSIVE jalsas in the election campaign in 2018, every major opinion poll had him and his party leading the polls.
.
.
.
.
But
.
.
.
We should believe Local Dada here because he read on some hindutva news letter that IK was installed by the army.



Baatien caroron ki, dukaan pakoron ki

Yes, Imran Khan’s latest speech was a deepfake created by RSS and BJP.

In fact I am more surprised by this kind of bravado, clearly you surf all corners of the internet to find negatives about india but I am surprised you haven’t come across what some of your own media and country men think of IK.

Whatever floats your boat.

 

[LaLoco]

Inshallah.I hope Imran Khan remains PM for next 20 more years.

No! one more term and if needed, one more term after.

IK was not elected to change the demographic, marginalize or dehumanized the minority of Pakistan, he was selected to change the thinking, perception, and standing up for Pakistan on the world forums.

 

[Local.Dada]

No! one more term and if needed, one more term after.

IK was not elected to change the demographic, marginalize or dehumanized the minority of Pakistan, he was selected to change the thinking, perception, and standing up for Pakistan on the world forums.

I am not being confrontational but how did Pakistan’s world standing improve under IK?

For all the conflicts we have had Xi visited India, Putin visited India, both Trump and Biden have had cordial relations, Even Taliban has clarified their stance that they are not anti-India, India has always had great relations with Israel, India might be leaning towards USA but is still overrides their rules about Iran when it comes to india because Iran and India still have cordial relations, Arab countries have honored Modi.

Can you give such examples. Would like to know. Serious question.

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

No! one more term and if needed, one more term after.

IK was not elected to change the demographic, marginalize or dehumanized the minority of Pakistan, he was selected to change the thinking, perception, and standing up for Pakistan on the world forums.

Yet Balochs are marginalised, perception is at all time low with high inflation and accepting humiliating terms of loans from IMF and Saudi Arabia and poor economy and coming with a security policy of geo-economics and not wanting a war for 100 years, because, well, the War is lost.

 

[LaLoco]

Yet Balochs are marginalised, perception is at all time low with high inflation and accepting humiliating terms of loans from IMF and Saudi Arabia and poor economy and coming with a security policy of geo-economics and not wanting a war for 100 years, because, well, the War is lost.

Pakistan has only acquired 2 billion of allotted 6 billion loans.

If Baloch are marginalized then you would hear it every day, Pakistan has removed Indian sponsored terrorist from Balochistan ( Yadav said Hello from the other side )

Biden was recently asked about inflation in the US, it is all over the world, not just Pakistan, so please come up with a better question.

Which war Pakistan has lost? Geo-political war has not ended yet.

Geo-economic war is being fought, no result had been declared yet.

 

[Syed1]

Yet Balochs are marginalised, perception is at all time low with high inflation and accepting humiliating terms of loans from IMF and Saudi Arabia and poor economy and coming with a security policy of geo-economics and not wanting a war for 100 years, because, well, the War is lost.

If IK is doing so bad, the voters in Pakistan will vote him out. It is none of the concern of any Indian. Learn to mind your own business.


Also to answer your question. PIA and Pakistan Post are out of their loss making trend, a single national curriculum is being implemented so that the rich and poor have the same opportunity, a universal health coverage is being rolled out and will be completed by March 2022 covering all provinces except Sindh (where PTI is not in government). Pakistan's exports are going to hit all time high this year. International cricket is back in Pakistan. Extraordinary OIC session was held in Pakistan. Prince Andrew and his wife visited. Before covid every major tourism magazine labelled Pakistan as a must visit destination. I can go on and on..... but you are not here to debate, just to spread your hindutva mindset.

 

[Napa]

IK will get elected next year, y'all will have to come up with new narrative to waste readers time but I am sure Indian media will provide some juicy content for you all to latch on and repeat like a parrot. lol

Indian media? The referenced article was written by a Pakistani American Arif Rafiq, in the New York Times.

Sitting in the US, you don't really care that the Pakistani economy is going down the drain, while you keep preaching how wonderful IK has been.

No replies.

 

[LaLoco]

Indian media? The referenced article was written by a Pakistani American Arif Rafiq, in the New York Times.

Sitting in the US, you don't really care that the Pakistani economy is going down the drain, while you keep preaching how wonderful IK has been.

No replies.

If you are going to suggest Pakistan economy is going down to drain and then blame it on IK then I am happy that you would stick to 'no reply'

There is no point of having a discussion with someone who believe NS is the better option for Pakistan, so by default, it has been "No reply" from most of us.

 

[LaLoco]

If IK is doing so bad, the voters in Pakistan will vote him out. It is none of the concern of any Indian. Learn to mind your own business.


Also to answer your question. PIA and Pakistan Post are out of their loss making trend, a single national curriculum is being implemented so that the rich and poor have the same opportunity, a universal health coverage is being rolled out and will be completed by March 2022 covering all provinces except Sindh (where PTI is not in government). Pakistan's exports are going to hit all time high this year. International cricket is back in Pakistan. Extraordinary OIC session was held in Pakistan. Prince Andrew and his wife visited. Before covid every major tourism magazine labelled Pakistan as a must visit destination. I can go on and on..... but you are not here to debate, just to spread your hindutva mindset.

Concept of slow and gradual progress escapes when it comes to Pak and IK, wanted changes to occur over night.

 

[Syed1]

If you are going to suggest Pakistan economy is going down to drain and then blame it on IK then I am happy that you would stick to 'no reply'

There is no point of having a discussion with someone who believe NS is the better option for Pakistan, so by default, it has been "No reply" from most of us.

Even the "economy going down the drain" is hindutva fake news. The economy grew by 5.4% in FY21 and expected to be in the range of 5.5 - 6.0% in FY22. Exports were all time high in FY21 and are surpassing that quite comfortably in FY22.


An example of "economy going down the drain" is what India experienced with double digit negative growth. All time high unemployment and worst poverty in the world.

 

[Forward Defensive Push]

Inshallah.I hope Imran Khan remains PM for next 20 more years.

Have mercy on us

 

[Local.Dada]

An example of "economy going down the drain" is what India experienced with double digit negative growth. All time high unemployment and worst poverty in the world.

Hey regardless of that we are not going head over heels and twisting and turning for a billion dollar loan.

while sure billion dollars seems to be a lot of money for me, in a govt context that sounds like peanuts. Guys like Mallya and Nirav Modi alone stole much more than that from a small time national bank in India lol.

India is doing pretty good, I would worry about Pakistan.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Have mercy on us

Bhai tell me, is IK popular or not in Pakistan?

 

[cricketjoshila]

Hey regardless of that we are not going head over heels and twisting and turning for a billion dollar loan.

while sure billion dollars seems to be a lot of money for me, in a govt context that sounds like peanuts. Guys like Mallya and Nirav Modi alone stole much more than that from a small time national bank in India lol.

India is doing pretty good, I would worry about Pakistan.

India just gave SL a 2.5bn usd credit line as SL is in a economic crisis and faces a balance of payments issue. They may even default.

Pakistan also just raised 1bn usd via bonds at a nearly 8 per cent interest rate. Thats the highest they have paid for their Sukuk bonds. Before that in 2017 they had paid 5.6 per cent.

They have had to pledge their M2 highway to raise these funds for the bond.

 

[Forward Defensive Push]

Bhai tell me, is IK popular or not in Pakistan?

He still is but off late facing challenges

 

[cricketjoshila]

He still is but off late facing challenges

See bro, if majority of people vote for him, he will win. That's democracy.

What are the major challenges he is facing?