You are here

  • Home
  • Pakistan praises Saudi Arabia’s use of technology to enhance pilgrim experience with ‘flying taxis’

Pakistan praises Saudi Arabia’s use of technology to enhance pilgrim experience with ‘flying taxis’

Pakistan praises Saudi Arabia’s use of technology to enhance pilgrim experience with ‘flying taxis’
The screengrab taken from a video shows the first air taxi test flight in Saudi Arabia. (Photo courtesy: YouTube/@GulfNewsVideo)
Short Url

https://arab.news/4r6ra

Updated 12 May 2024
Follow

Pakistan praises Saudi Arabia’s use of technology to enhance pilgrim experience with ‘flying taxis’

Pakistan praises Saudi Arabia’s use of technology to enhance pilgrim experience with ‘flying taxis’
  • Saudi authorities have announced plans to test ‘flying taxis and drones’ during this year’s Hajj season
  • Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry says the kingdom has consistently increased its use of technology
Updated 12 May 2024
Arab News Pakistan
Follow

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry on Saturday applauded Saudi Arabia for using advanced technology to improve the pilgrimage experience for Muslims, the state-owned Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) news agency reported, after the kingdom announced its plan to test “flying taxis and drones” during this Hajj season.
Saudi Minister for Transport and Logistics Saleh Al-Jasser spoke earlier this week about intense competition among transportation companies in the kingdom to provide the best traveling means to people. Previously, he also said the flying taxis and drones would be tested during Hajj to provide pilgrims with maximum comfort.
According to some reports, the Saudi Airlines was also considering plans to operate flying taxis to ferry Hajj pilgrims from the Jeddah airport to their hotels in Makkah.
“Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernizing the pilgrimage experience through innovative technology demonstrates their dedication to ensuring pilgrims’ comfort and convenience,” Muhammad Umar, the spokesperson for Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry, said.
Umar, who has remained closely involved in his country’s Hajj operations since 2009, also mentioned how the Saudi authorities had introduced various mobile applications to help pilgrims.
“I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and efforts of the Saudi government in facilitating the sacred journey of millions of pilgrims,” he added.
He also highlighted significant improvements in crowd management and the provision of enhanced facilities to pilgrims by Saudi authorities over the years.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and requires every adult Muslim to undertake the journey to the holy Islamic sites in Makkah at least once in their lifetime, if they are financially and physically able.
Pakistan has a Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims this year, according to the Pakistani religious affairs ministry. Of them, 63,805 pilgrims will be performing the pilgrimage under the government scheme, while the rest would be accommodated by private tour operators.

Topics: flying taxi

Pakistan decides to deploy paramilitary forces in capital ahead of anti-government protest

Pakistan decides to deploy paramilitary forces in capital ahead of anti-government protest
Updated 9 sec ago
Follow

Pakistan decides to deploy paramilitary forces in capital ahead of anti-government protest

Pakistan decides to deploy paramilitary forces in capital ahead of anti-government protest
  • Imran Khan’s PTI party is gearing up for planned “long march” to Pakistan’s capital this Sunday 
  • PTI says will protest “rigging,” demand judiciary’s independence and release of political prisoners
Updated 9 sec ago
Hasaan Ali Khan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s interior ministry has authorized the deployment of the country’s paramilitary Punjab Rangers and Frontier Constabulary (FC) forces in Islamabad from Nov. 7 onwards, a notification said, to maintain the law and order situation ahead of a planned protest by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. 

The PTI is gearing up to lead a “long march” to Islamabad on Sunday over alleged rigging in the Feb. 8 general elections and has also called for the release of political prisoners including Khan and demanded the judiciary’s independence. On Monday, Islamabad’s district magistrate imposed a two-month-long ban on the gathering of more than five people in the capital using Section 144 of the Pakistan Penal Code. 

Section 144 allows the government to prohibit various forms of political assembly, gatherings, sit-ins, rallies, demonstrations and other activities for a specified period. Earlier on Wednesday, the PTI and the government both ruled out negotiations with each other while police warned action will be taken against Khan supporters who violate the public gatherings ban. 

“The federal government in exercise of the powers conferred under Sections four and five of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 is pleased to authorize the deployment of sufficient strength of Pakistan Rangers (Punjab) and Frontier Constabulary troops in ICT from Nov. 7 onwards to handle the law and order situation,” the Ministry of Interior’s notification, dated Nov. 7 but released on Wednesday, read. 

It said Islamabad’s chief commissioner had requested for the deployment of Punjab Rangers and FC forces in the capital on Nov. 4. The notification added that the number of troops, their requisitioning date and the area of their deployment will be finalized following mutual consultations between all stakeholders.

Pakistan’s parliament also passed a law earlier this year to regulate public gatherings in Islamabad, including by specifying timings for rallies and designating specific areas. The law has set three-year jail terms for participants in illegal assemblies, with a ten-year imprisonment for repeat offenders.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition government has thwarted the PTI party’s recent rallies and marches organized to build pressure for Khan’s release. The former prime minister has been in jail since August 2023 and has faced dozens of cases since he was removed as premier in 2022. 

Since then, Khan has launched a protest movement against the coalition of his rivals, which critics say is backed by the all-powerful military which denies political interference.

Topics: PTI protest

Pakistani clerics body says declared VPN usage un-Islamic without government, military’s ‘influence’ 

Pakistani clerics body says declared VPN usage un-Islamic without government, military’s ‘influence’ 
Updated 20 November 2024
Follow

Pakistani clerics body says declared VPN usage un-Islamic without government, military’s ‘influence’ 

Pakistani clerics body says declared VPN usage un-Islamic without government, military’s ‘influence’ 
  • Council of Islamic Ideology last week declared use of VPNs “un-Islamic” after government announced banning them 
  • Independent analysts say CII statement was released due to military, government’s influence to provide ban religious cover
Updated 20 November 2024
SAIMA SHABBIR

ISLAMABAD: Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) Chairman Dr. Raghab Hussain Naeemi clarified on Wednesday that the top clerics body had described the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) as “un-Islamic” independently and not under the influence of Pakistan’s powerful military or government. 

Pakistani authorities last week announced a ban on the use of VPNs, citing their use by militant groups for financial transactions and violent activities, which was criticized by rights activists and independent analysts. The CII issued a statement later, declaring the usage of VPNs as un-Islamic. The ban followed the government’s earlier move to implement a nationwide firewall to block malicious content, protect government networks from attacks, and allow it to identify IP addresses associated with “anti-state propaganda” and terror attacks. Pakistan has already blocked access to social media platform X since the February general elections, with the government saying the blocking was to stop anti-state activities and due to a failure by X to adhere to local Pakistani laws.

These moves have caused Internet disruptions over the past couple of months. Independent analysts have accused the government and Pakistan’s powerful military of suppressing criticism by former prime minister Imran Khan’s supporters on digital media. They allege that the CII issued its statement against the use of VPNs last week at the government and military’s behest, who wanted to provide a religious cover to the Internet restrictions. The government and Pakistan’s military deny this.

“Even today, it is the council’s own initiative, independent of any influence or direction from the government, [military] establishment, security agencies or any ministry,” Naeemi told Arab News on the sidelines of a press conference. “And it is not directed against any political party or to support anyone but aiming to prevent the immoral use of VPNs and block blasphemous content.”

The cleric said that the importance of social media and other technological tools cannot be denied, adding that their “positive use” has become a necessity of the times.

“Administrative measures should be adopted to prevent their misuse and the council believes that merely imposing restrictions on modern tools is not a solution; it is equally important to enable their positive use and to offer viable alternatives,” the CII chief said. 

Naeemi said the CII has decided to conduct further research on the topic from an Islamic perspective in consultation with experts.

In a press conference earlier, Naeemi said VPNs and other social media applications are not inherently unlawful or un-Islamic. He said their permissibility according to Islam depends on their usage.

“If it is used to spread or access content that involves disrespect, blasphemy, unrest, anarchy or is against national security, such usage will undoubtedly be deemed impermissible in Shariah,” he said. 

Naeemi backed the government’s move to regulate the use of VPNs through registration. 

“Social media should be used for promoting Islamic values, building moral character, advancing education and training, fostering trade, strengthening national peace and security, and other lawful objectives,” Naeemi said.

Topics: VPN Ban VPN Ban in Pakistan Council of Islamic Ideology

Pakistan, China begin joint counter-terror exercise ‘Warrior-VIII’ to bolster military ties

Pakistan, China begin joint counter-terror exercise ‘Warrior-VIII’ to bolster military ties
Updated 20 November 2024
Follow

Pakistan, China begin joint counter-terror exercise ‘Warrior-VIII’ to bolster military ties

Pakistan, China begin joint counter-terror exercise ‘Warrior-VIII’ to bolster military ties
  • Three-week long exercise aimed at refining professional skills of both armies, says Pakistan military
  • Exercise takes place amid surge in attacks in recent weeks on Chinese nationals living in Pakistan
Updated 20 November 2024
Hasaan Ali Khan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China on Wednesday kicked off their joint counter-terror exercise, “Warrior-VIII,” aimed at refining soldiers’ professional skills and bolstering military-to-military ties between the two states, Pakistan Army said. 

Pakistan and China share a robust military partnership, with the two states enjoying longstanding cooperation in defense production, technology and training. China is Pakistan’s largest defense supplier, providing advanced weaponry including fighter jets and submarines to its ally. The two nations frequently collaborate through joint military exercises, counter-terrorism efforts and regional security initiatives. 

Warrior VIII is a three-week long counter-terror exercise with the eighth edition taking place at the northwestern town of Pabbi in KP’s Nowshera district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Pakistan Army’s media wing, said. 

“Opening Ceremony of Pak — China Joint Exercise Warrior-VIII between Pakistan Army and Peoples’ Liberation Army of China was conducted at National Counter Terrorism Center, Pabbi, today,” the ISPR said. 

“The exercise is aimed at refining professional skills through joint training besides harnessing the historic military-to-military relations among the iron-clad brothers.”

The exercise takes place amid a surge in attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan by separatist elements in Karachi and southwestern Balochistan province. Islamabad says the attacks are aimed at disrupting its ties with Beijing and destabilizing a multi-billion-dollar Chinese infrastructure project in Pakistan. 

A deadly suicide blast near the airport in the southern city of Karachi last month targeted Chinese engineers, killing two and injuring several. In March this year, a suicide bombing killed five Chinese engineers and a Pakistani driver in northwestern Pakistan as they headed to the Dasu Dam, the largest hydropower project in the country.

China has called on Pakistan to enhance security measures for its citizens in the country. Islamabad has vowed to ensure foolproof security measures for Chinese citizens in the country. 
 

Topics: Pakistan China Ties

Pakistan gears up to promote exports globally with upcoming 18th OIC Trade Fair

Pakistan gears up to promote exports globally with upcoming 18th OIC Trade Fair
Updated 20 November 2024
Follow

Pakistan gears up to promote exports globally with upcoming 18th OIC Trade Fair

Pakistan gears up to promote exports globally with upcoming 18th OIC Trade Fair
  • Upcoming OIC Trade Fair will be held from Nov. 29-Dec. 1 in Pakistan’s eastern city of Lahore 
  • Commerce minister urges stakeholders to ensure Pakistan’s trade capabilities are highlighted at fair
Updated 20 November 2024
SAIMA SHABBIR

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan held a high-level meeting on Wednesday about the upcoming 18th Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Trade Fair and Wexnet 2024 business events, stressing the need to promote the country’s exports globally through them. 

The OIC Trade Fair is one of the major annual events organized by the Islamic Center for Development of Trade (ICDT) to promote trade and cooperation between the 57 OIC member countries. The 18th edition of the fair will be organized by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and Pakistan’s commerce ministry in collaboration with the ICDT in the eastern city of Lahore from Nov. 29-Dec. 1. 

Wexnet, meanwhile, is a flagship event organized by the TDAP to empower and promote women entrepreneurs across the nation. The platform allows women-led businesses to showcase their innovative products and services in the country. 

“The Minister emphasized the significance of Wexnet 2024 as a platform to promote women entrepreneurs and directed TDAP to intensify efforts in showcasing their achievements,” the commerce ministry said. “He also stressed the importance of utilizing both events to amplify TDAP’s role in fostering trade development and promoting Pakistan’s exports globally.”

Stressing the impact of both events, Khan urged all stakeholders to ensure outreach, meticulous planning and impactful representation of Pakistan’s trade and business capabilities, it added. 

The ministry said both events are poised to strengthen Pakistan’s trade ties and support the country’s export-oriented growth strategy.

“TDAP remains committed to promoting inclusive trade development and creating avenues for showcasing Pakistan’s export potential,” the commerce ministry said. 

The ICDT says the trade fair aims to promote the development of economic and commercial partnerships between member countries and disseminate and share their economic potential. 

It said the event also aims to make a tangible contribution to the development of exchanges and investments linked to trade between member countries while also market their products and services. 

The OIC is the second-largest inter-government organization after the United Nations, with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents. It is considered globally as the collective voice of the Muslim world and seeks to safeguard and protect its interests. 
 

Topics: OIC Trade Fair in Lahore Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan

Pakistan third-worst country out of 142 for order and security, says World Justice Project 

Pakistan third-worst country out of 142 for order and security, says World Justice Project 
Updated 20 November 2024
Follow

Pakistan third-worst country out of 142 for order and security, says World Justice Project 

Pakistan third-worst country out of 142 for order and security, says World Justice Project 
  • Mali, ranked at 141 and Nigeria, ranked at 142, were placed below Pakistan in Order and Security index 
  • Pakistan has seen a surge in militant attacks in western provinces bordering Afghanistan since Nov. 22
Updated 20 November 2024
Arab News Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The World Justice Project has ranked Pakistan as the third-worst country for law and order out of a total of 142, as Islamabad grapples with surging militant attacks and suicide bombings in its western provinces bordering Afghanistan while rights activists accuse the government of clamping down on freedom of speech and expression. 

The World Justice Project describes itself as an independent, multidisciplinary organization that is working to create knowledge, build awareness and stimulate action to advance the rule of law worldwide. 

In its annual list released on Oct. 23, the WJP said rule of law has once again weakened in a majority of countries surveyed this year. Pakistan was ranked at 140 out of a total of 142 countries in its Order and Security criteria. 

“Security is one of the defining aspects of any rule of law society and is a fundamental function of the state,” the WJP said. “It is also a precondition for the realization of the rights and freedoms that the rule of law seeks to advance.”

Only Mali, ranked at 141 and Nigeria, ranked at 142, were placed below Pakistan in the Order and Security index by the WJP. 

The WJP ranked Pakistan at 129 out of 142 in the overall Rule of Law index. The overall rating is given by considering eight factors: Constraints on Government Powers, Absence of Corruption, Open Government, Fundamental rights, Order and Security, Regulatory Enforcement, Civil Justice and Criminal Justice. 

The report ranked Pakistan at 103 for Constraints on Government Powers, 120 for Absence of Corruption, 106 for Open Government, 125 for Fundamental Rights, 127 for Regulatory Enforcement, 128 for Civil Justice and 98 for Criminal Justice.

The WJP said in its press release that a majority of countries had improved on ensuring effective criminal justice but authoritarian trends have continued to set them back on protecting human rights and democracy.

Pakistan has witnessed a surge in militant attacks since Nov. 22 in its western provinces bordering Afghanistan ever since its fragile truce with the Pakistani Taliban broke down. Separatist militants in the country’s southwestern Balochistan province have also increased attacks against security forces and civilians in recent months. 

Meanwhile, opposition parties and rights activists have accused the government and Pakistan’s powerful military of using coercive tactics to suppress freedom of speech and their right to protest. Rights activists have also pointed to frequent Internet disruptions in the country, accusing the state of clamping down on people’s right to enjoy digital freedoms.

The government and Pakistan’s powerful military deny these allegations. 
 

Topics: Pakistan judiciary militancy in Pakistan

Latest updates

Vieira takes over at struggling Genoa
Vieira takes over at struggling Genoa
’Rare joy’ as war-hit Sudan reaches African football showpiece
’Rare joy’ as war-hit Sudan reaches African football showpiece
Ukraine fires UK Storm Shadow cruise missiles into Russia, a day after using US ATACMS
Ukraine fires UK Storm Shadow cruise missiles into Russia, a day after using US ATACMS
Bento’s UAE enjoy dream international week to reignite World Cup hopes
Bento’s UAE enjoy dream international week to reignite World Cup hopes
Olympia in Greece to host International Camel Racing Federation General Assembly
Olympia in Greece to host International Camel Racing Federation General Assembly

Search form

Print Edition
Read pdf version Subscribe now
© 2024 SAUDI RESEARCH & PUBLISHING COMPANY, All Rights Reserved And subject to Terms of Use Agreement.