Pakistan reaffirms support for Beijing after reports of interior minister attending anti-China event

Pakistan reaffirms support for Beijing after reports of interior minister attending anti-China event
Pakistani police officers stand guard outside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad on January 18, 2024. (AFP/File)
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Updated 27 January 2025
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Pakistan reaffirms support for Beijing after reports of interior minister attending anti-China event

Pakistan reaffirms support for Beijing after reports of interior minister attending anti-China event
  • News outlets reported last week Mohsin Naqvi met members of political group opposed to Chinese state 
  • Pakistan’s FO says One-China position “consistent cornerstone” of its foreign policy that remains unchanged

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s foreign office spokesperson reiterated support for the One-China Policy on Monday, days after news reports claimed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi attended a meeting by a group in Washington opposed to the Chinese state. 

Local and international news outlets reported last week that Naqvi had attended an event in Washington by the New Federal State of China (NFSC), a political movement opposed to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The Pakistani interior minister is in the United States to engage American lawmakers on issues of mutual concern, including militancy. 

Naqvi denied the allegations while speaking to reporters on Sunday, describing them as “propaganda.” The minister said he had attended an event by US-based public relations firm Gunster Strategies in Washington, categorically stating that it was not opposed to the Chinese state. 

Pakistan has always backed the One-China Policy, which is the diplomatic acknowledgment of Beijing’s stance that there is only one Chinese government. China uses this policy to form the basis of its ties with other countries regarding the status of Taiwan. 

“Responding to media speculations, the spokesperson categorically rejected baseless and unfounded allegations to target Pakistan-China friendship,” the foreign office spokesperson said. “He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the foundational principle of the One-China Policy which is a consistent cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and remains unchanged.”

The spokesperson described China as Pakistan’s “all-weather strategic partner,” saying their bilateral relations are based on mutual trust, shared values, support on issues of core concern and a commitment to regional and global stability.

China, a major ally and investor in Pakistan, has pledged over $65 billion in investment in road, infrastructure and development projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. CPEC is a part of the Belt and Road Initiative, a massive China-led infrastructure project that aims to connect various countries around the globe through trade.
 


International Atomic Energy Agency chief arrives in Pakistan to discuss nuclear cooperation

International Atomic Energy Agency chief arrives in Pakistan to discuss nuclear cooperation
Updated 4 sec ago
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International Atomic Energy Agency chief arrives in Pakistan to discuss nuclear cooperation

International Atomic Energy Agency chief arrives in Pakistan to discuss nuclear cooperation
  • Pakistan is has benefitted from IAEA’s technical cooperation program covering nuclear medicine and energy
  • Pakistan seeks inclusion in Nuclear Suppliers Group, says its atomic program meets global safeguards criteria

ISLAMABAD: Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday for a two-day official visit, during which he is scheduled to meet key political leaders, attend seminars, and visit a nuclear power generation site, the foreign office said.
The IAEA is the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, overseeing global efforts to promote safe and peaceful applications of nuclear technology. Pakistan has cooperated with the agency since 1957 and maintains an active civil nuclear power program under its safeguards.
While Pakistan is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, it has voluntary safeguards agreements with the IAEA and actively engages with it on nuclear security to ensure its facilities meet international safety standards.
“Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano @rafaelmgrossi, has arrived in Pakistan on a two-day official visit,” the foreign office announced on X, formerly Twitter.
“Pakistan is one of the largest recipients under IAEA’s Technical Cooperation Program, covering nuclear energy, health, water resource management, food & agriculture. His visit deepens Pakistan-IAEA partnership on peaceful uses of nuclear technology.”
During his visit, Grossi will hold talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
He will also participate in seminars hosted by the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). Grossi’s itinerary includes visits to the Chashma Nuclear Power Generating Station (CNPGS) and Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Oncology Lahore (INMOL), a medical facility that offers free cancer treatment.
Pakistan, which is a member of the IAEA Board of Governors, has been advocating for inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), arguing that its nuclear program meets international safeguards criteria.
The country actively engages in IAEA conferences, policy discussions and technical workshops, reinforcing its commitment to peaceful nuclear applications.


Pakistan, Bangladesh plan to launch passenger and cargo shipping services as ties warm up

Pakistan, Bangladesh plan to launch passenger and cargo shipping services as ties warm up
Updated 56 min 47 sec ago
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Pakistan, Bangladesh plan to launch passenger and cargo shipping services as ties warm up

Pakistan, Bangladesh plan to launch passenger and cargo shipping services as ties warm up
  • Pakistan and Bangladesh were once one nation, but split in 1971 as a result of a bloody civil war
  • Ties between both nations have warmed up since PM Hasina’s ouster due to an uprising in Aug.

KARACHI: Pakistan and Bangladesh have decided to launch passenger and cargo shipping services between the two countries, the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) said on Tuesday, amid a thaw in ties since the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year.
The statement came after a meeting between Bangladesh High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan and PNSC Chairman Sultan Ahmed Chawla, aimed at discussing avenues for enhanced maritime cooperation between the two nations.
Pakistan and Bangladesh were once one nation, but they split in 1971 as a result of a bloody civil war, which saw the part previously referred to as East Pakistan seceding to form the independent nation of Bangladesh.
In the years since, Bangladeshi leaders, particularly ex-PM Hasina, chose to maintain close ties with India. Ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh have warmed up since Hasina’s ouster as a result of a student-led uprising in August, witnessing a marked improvement.
“A key outcome of the discussion was the decision to initiate passenger and cargo services between the two countries, facilitating smoother travel and boosting people-to-people connectivity in trade, industry and ship agency matters,” the PNSC said in a statement.
The development follows interactions between top officials of both countries on bilateral and multilateral forums.
The head of Bangladesh’s interim government, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif twice since taking office on Aug. 8. Last month, Pakistani and Bangladeshi envoys held a meeting in the United Arab Emirates, wherein they proposed direct flights from Dhaka to Islamabad and Karachi.
In January, Pakistan and Bangladesh signed a landmark agreement to establish a joint business council, during the visit of a Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) delegation to Dhaka. The Trade Corporation of Pakistan has also signed a memorandum of understanding for rice export to Bangladesh.
Bangladesh High Commissioner Khan expressed optimism about the positive impact of the recent developments, noting that enhanced maritime connectivity will further strengthen bilateral trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries, according to the PNSC.
Chawla reaffirmed the PNSC’s commitment to supporting regional trade initiatives and emphasized the corporation’s readiness to facilitate seamless logistics between the two countries.
“The meeting concluded with both sides reiterating their dedication to exploring new opportunities for collaboration in the maritime sector, aiming for a prosperous future for Pakistan and Bangladesh,” the PNSC added.


Pakistan inaugurates newly renovated Karachi stadium ahead of Champions Trophy

Pakistan inaugurates newly renovated Karachi stadium ahead of Champions Trophy
Updated 11 February 2025
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Pakistan inaugurates newly renovated Karachi stadium ahead of Champions Trophy

Pakistan inaugurates newly renovated Karachi stadium ahead of Champions Trophy
  • In addition to new pavilion, 350 LED lights, two digital replay screens and over 5,000 new chairs have been installed at the stadium
  • Champions Trophy will be staged from Feb. 19 to Mar. 9 in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi, while India will play their matches in the UAE

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday opened the newly renovated National Bank Stadium in Karachi, ahead of the 50-over Champions Trophy tournament.
The facility features world-class dressing rooms for players and match officials, complemented by high-quality hospitality rooms, according to the PCB.
In addition to the new pavilion, 350 LED lights and two digital replay screens have been installed at the stadium to improve broadcast quality, besides the addition of over 5,000 new chairs to enhance spectator comfort.
The eight-team Champions Trophy will be staged from February 19 to March 9 in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi, although arch-rival India’s matches will be staged in the United Arab Emirates after they refused to play in Pakistan.
“This upgrade is a testament to our vision of elevating Pakistan’s cricketing venues to international standards,” PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said in a statement.
“The National Bank Stadium, which last saw a major overhaul during the 1996 World Cup, now stands as a modern, world-class facility that will not only host domestic and international matches but also provide players and fans with a top-tier experience.”
Pakistan last held a major tournament in 1996, when it co-hosted the World Cup with India and Sri Lanka, before a forced hiatus over security concerns.
Nearly 5,000 dedicated workers contributed tirelessly to transforming the Karachi stadium, ensuring its full operational readiness for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi said the “incredible” workforce behind the stadium’s transformation deserved immense appreciation.
“Their hard work has made it possible for us to proudly present the National Bank Stadium as a world-class venue, ready to welcome top cricketing action,” he added.
Last week, Pakistan also opened the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore after a 117-day renovation work, during which LED floodlights, larger score screens, new hospitality boxes and upgraded seating were installed.


Pakistan and Uganda challenge World Anti-Doping Agency listings, review clears Uruguay

Pakistan and Uganda challenge World Anti-Doping Agency listings, review clears Uruguay
Updated 11 February 2025
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Pakistan and Uganda challenge World Anti-Doping Agency listings, review clears Uruguay

Pakistan and Uganda challenge World Anti-Doping Agency listings, review clears Uruguay
  • All three were put on WADA's watchlist in September 2024 over "outstanding non-conformities" to the agency's updated anti-doping code
  • The Olympic committees of Pakistan and Uganda have notified WADA they plan to "dispute the allegations of non-compliance against them

MONTREAL: The World Anti-Doping Agency's announced Friday that a review committee recommended the removal of Uruguay from its compliance watchlist, while Pakistan and Uganda vowed to fight accusations of code violations.
All three were put on WADA's watchlist in September 2024 over "outstanding non-conformities" to the agency's updated anti-doping code.
Some of the states' legislation was also alleged to be in conflict with those rules.
In a statement, WADA said Uruguay's national anti-doping organization provided information and documentation that showed "critical corrective actions had now been corrected in full."
As such, the agency's Compliance Review Committee recommended the withdrawal of a notice of non-compliance against Uruguay.
If the Executive Committee agrees, there would be no sanctions applied to Uruguay.
The Olympic committees of Pakistan and Uganda, meanwhile, notified WADA they plan to "dispute the allegations of non-compliance against them, as well as the proposed consequences, and the conditions of reinstatement," the global anti-doping body said.
The two cases would be referred to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for consideration "in due course."
No penalties will be imposed until the court rules.
There are currently four signatories to WADA's code that are non-compliant: Cameroon and Russia, the International Federation of Basque Pelota and the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation.
Sanctions bar non-compliant nations or organizations from hosting major sporting events and from flying their flag at sporting events.


Pakistan press club sues critic for defamation under controversial cybercrime law

Pakistan press club sues critic for defamation under controversial cybercrime law
Updated 11 February 2025
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Pakistan press club sues critic for defamation under controversial cybercrime law

Pakistan press club sues critic for defamation under controversial cybercrime law
  • President of the Mardan Press Club says the accused had attacked members with ‘highly inappropriate language’
  • Journalist leaders say case should have been registered under other laws, not Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act

KARACHI: A journalists’ club in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has filed a case against a critic over alleged defamation under the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), which Pakistani journalist bodies have challenged in courts.
The Mardan Press Club (MPC) alleged that Zahid Khan, who manages a Facebook page under his name and claims to be associated with ‘Daily Nida-e-Watan’ and ‘Piyam-e-Khyber’ newspapers, had been running a “defamatory and negative propaganda campaign” against the club and its members for several years. The First Information Report (FIR), registered against Khan under sections 506 and 500 of the Pakistan Penal Code as well as the PECA law, says the accused had been using “highly inappropriate language repeatedly” against MPC members.
The Pakistan Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, enacted on January 29, includes provisions making the dissemination of “fake or false” information a criminal offense punishable by up to three years in prison without clearly defining “fake or false” news. Journalists and digital rights experts say they were excluded from consultations on the bill, which prevented genuine public scrutiny of the new law, and have challenged it in courts.
The PECA amendments aim to create four new regulatory bodies to regulate online content and broaden the definition of online harm. The regulatory bodies will be authorized to block and remove content based on ambiguous criteria that do not meet the standards of proportionality and necessity required under international human rights law, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International rights groups have said.
“Zahid had applied for the club’s membership, but the governing body rejected his application, deeming him unqualified for the membership,” Muhammad Riaz Khan Mayar, the MPC president, told Arab News.
“Following this, he approached the civil court and then the high court, but both forums dismissed his petition. After that, he started launching personal attacks against the press club and its members on social media, using highly inappropriate language repeatedly.”
Mayar said his press club shared concerns of Pakistani journalist bodies about the PECA law.
“The press club cannot engage in fights but has the right to seek legal recourse against persistent defamation and personal attacks,” he argued, saying that PECA was used only because it is currently in effect.
While journalist leaders supported legal action against the accused for alleged defamation, they criticized the invoking of PECA by the complainants.
AH Khanzada, secretary-general of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), said the FIR should have been registered against relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, and not the PECA law.
“The journalists of the country firmly stand against the PECA law which we strongly believe has been enacted and later amendments were made to target freedom of speech and freedom of press,” Khanzada said.
“We will continue our struggle against the law, which we have no doubt is meant to suppress our voice. As we stand with Mardan Press Club against those attacking it, we believe that registering FIR under the PECA law is totally wrong.”
He urged the press club management to take back the complaint and register it, if at all necessary, under other laws.
Fazil Jamili, president of the Karachi Press Club, echoed the concerns.
“We, the journalists, strongly oppose the PECA law and no case, against anyone, should be registered under it,” Jamili told Arab News. “We also believe that the press club had every right to adopt legal course against a person who had been making personal attacks on its office bearers and members, but it should be registered under other defamation laws instead of PECA.”