Current Projects
China & Bangladesh join hands for underwater tunnel
The Chinese-built Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel in Bangladesh is the first under-river tunnel in South Asia. The project came under joint funding from the Chinese and Bangladeshi governments. Bangladesh was also the first South Asian country to sign a Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation with China. The two countries have had fruitful high-quality BRI cooperation over the years. The Chinese-built Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel in Bangladesh, the first under-river tunnel in South Asia, was officially inaugurated on Saturday, October 28, 2023. Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen also attended the ceremony. This venture marked Bangladesh’s entry into the era of underwater tunnels. The tunnel is located under the Karnaphuli river, in the port city of Chittagong, which is officially known as Chattogram, and is Bangladesh’s second-largest city by population. Bangladeshi Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaid ul Quader called the tunnel a “monumental achievement” ushering in a new era of communication within the country and marking a source of immense national pride. The project came under joint funding from the Chinese and Bangladeshi governments, and the total cost of the project is estimated at US$1.1B. It has created more than 5,000 jobs so far, trained local people on infrastructure construction skills and promoted local economic development. However, with the current geo-political tension rising, the India-China contest remains a crucial factor. Over the course of the past 15 years, both countries have deepened their stakes in Bangladesh but with the recent developments, India now finds itself in a difficult and precarious situation. Bangladesh’s increasing dependence on China for infrastructural development and economic assistance might upset India as it could strain ties between Bangladesh and India. Nonetheless, Bangladesh seems unaffected by this and went ahead with this project as it wants to...
“Deportation campaign addresses all unlawful residents, not just Afghans”- Interim Minister Sarfraz Bugti
Interim Minister Sarfraz Bugti contends that the government’s announcement was misinterpreted with the wrong message delivered and that it was for all illegal residents. He also said that there was no ethnic element to the issue and that there was no need for diplomatic intervention, adding, “Nor is there any need for it.” On 25th October 2023, at a hearing before the Senate Standing Committee, Pakistan’s Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti stated that the government’s message on taking action against illegal residents had been misunderstood. The deportation campaign was aimed at all individuals living illegally in the country, not just Afghans. Previously (October 3, 2023), the interim administration declared that if the situation did not improve, all law enforcement agencies would deport people living unlawfully in the country. Surprisingly, Bugti had said then that 1.73 million unregistered illegal Afghans were living in the country. Furthermore, to make matters worse, the State media then subsequently reported that the decision to evict foreigners living illegally was because of their involvement in funding and facilitating terrorists and other illegal activities. This statement provoked outrage from various local and international agencies, with many assuming it was directed solely towards Afghan refugees. On the other hand, Bugti, now contends that the government’s announcement was misinterpreted with the wrong message delivered. This latest announcement comes as the government’s deadline for illegal immigrants to leave Pakistan on October 31, 2023 approaches. Following are the key points he made in his speech: “We were talking about deporting illegal residents but it was conveyed through our announcement [as if] we are only deporting Afghans. The government’s message was not just for the Afghans. The announcement was for all illegal residents.” “Anyone who had a refugee card or a visa was “our guest”, adding that the government was also similarly...
Transit Trade Transport: Means for Corrupt Practices
The lack of a mutually agreed transportation mechanism continues to obstruct the free flow of goods across Pakistan and Afghanistan. Vehicles’ movement is subject to several restrictions, including those on the transportation of Afghan transit cargo from Karachi to various border posts – Torkham, Chamman, and Ghulam Khan in particular. They are not just barriers but also avenues for exploitation by officials. Section III Article 4 of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA) identifies the routes used for transit traffic as: i) Maritime ports in Pakistan ii) Airports in Afghanistan and Pakistan, for air-to-air transit only iii) Transit rail/ road corridors through Pakistan and Afghanistan iv) Land stations between the contracting parties or between one contracting party and a third country. Annex One discusses these routes in detail. Protocol 2 of APTTA is on the Temporary Admission mechanism, so based on this, half of the APTTA is on transport and temporary admission and the remaining half covers other parts of transit trade. Both countries had agreed on the Temporary Admission Documents (TAD) mechanism but no implementation has been made yet. TAD essentially means a document issued by a competent authority of one contracting party that allows vehicles registered in the territory of the other contracting party to enter or exit or transit through its territory”. Before Ashraf Ghani assumed the presidency, Pakistani trucks could take cargo up to Hairatan (Uzbekistan), Sher Khan (Tajikistan), and Torghundi (Turkmenistan). But Ashraf Ghani – with his obvious India tilt and growing frustration with the Taliban’s violent campaign – brought an end to that; if Afghan trucks cannot go up to Wagah, why should Pakistani carriers be allowed through Afghanistan to central Asia, he asked. With this, he restricted Pakistani trucks only up to Jalalabad (via Torkham) and Kandahar (via Chamman). Ghani turned this into a personal issue of ego and thus embittered the...
Afghanistan’s Path to Peace and Prosperity Only Passes Through Empowering Afghan Women
In an international gathering of diverse voices of women leaders from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, Afghan women's rights took center stage, highlighting the enduring struggle they face amidst the crossfire of war and political turmoil. The discussions at the virtual consultation on “Women’s Rights in Afghanistan – Regional Perspectives and Role of Islamic World”, organized by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), underscored the need for women's inclusion in decision-making processes as equal partakers, given their unique perspectives and compassion they bring. The urgent call to eradicate archaic notions and empower women to lead nations for global peace and prosperity resonated strongly. The forum united voices from various nations, championing education, economic empowerment, and diplomatic pressure to safeguard the rights of Afghan women on a worldwide scale. Ms. Zarifa Ghafari, a former Afghan mayor, noted that for decades, Afghan women have been caught in the crossfire of war, politics, and policies that played with their innocent lives. They bore the heaviest brunt and faced the most severe repercussions of power politics. The ongoing struggle of Afghan women to secure their fundamental rights is noteworthy where, despite restrictions, they persist, yet their cries often go unnoticed on the global stage. It's vital to recognize that global issues won’t be resolved unless we involve women in the decision-making processes. The world today desperately needs the healing touch, the compassion, and the wisdom that women offer. Nations should collectively act against forces that threaten global peace, security, and progress. The decisions we make today will shape the world our future generations inherit. Let’s ensure it’s one of peace, progress, and inclusivity. “In the interest of developing a global understanding of what’s happening inside Afghanistan, fostering people-to-people connectivity - among Afghans...
China’s Belt and Road Forum-Key Takeaway Points
China’s “most important diplomatic event” of the year was held in Beijing. Top leaders around the world gathered for a series of bilateral meetings. This year marked its third edition though comparatively only 23 heads of state and government were present. One of the key factors could be the major crisis unfolding in the Middle East. While Xi and Putin shared the China-Russia partnership as “a loTakeaway Pointsng-term commitment,” other leaders called for a more multilateral, cooperative world. The forum also highlighted the next phase Iof BR, which enters its second decade. On October 17th-19th, 2023, a two-day global gathering termed as China’s “most important diplomatic event” of the year wrapped up in Beijing. (CNN) Top leaders around the world gathered for a series of bilateral meetings and forums centered around Chinese President Xi Jinping’s flagship Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), an international infrastructure project that has solidified China’s position as a major player in the world since its inception ten years ago. The BRI forum is a platform for developing action plans in the domains of trade and investment, infrastructure, energy and resources, production capacity, and identification of major projects. It is also meant to serve as an opportunity to sign cooperation agreements in the fields of financial cooperation mechanisms with countries and international organizations. This year marked its third edition. However, compared to the previous session where 37 leaders were in attendance, this year just 23 heads of state and government were present. One of the key factors could be the major crisis unfolding in the Middle East which resulted in some leaders from the region staying in their respective regions. (The Diplomat) Below are the key takeaway points from the forum: Putin’s Prominent Attendance: At the forum’s opening ceremony, Putin was one of the first leaders to speak. The Russian president emphasised his strong alignment with China both...
Pakistan’s Policies in Afghanistan: A Source of Concern
Pakistan's policies towards Afghanistan, shaped by decades of political maneuvering, have implications for regional peace, refugee crises, and bilateral trust, argues the author. Afghanistan, my homeland, has suffered through decades of conflict and instability. This turmoil has driven many Afghans to seek refuge in neighboring countries, primarily Pakistan. Today, challenges like potential violence, political instability, and economic hardships continue to afflict Afghanistan. Pakistan, undeniably, is grappling with its own myriad challenges, especially in ensuring basic services and opportunities for its people. The influx of a substantial number of Afghan refugees intensifies the strain on resources such as healthcare, education, and employment. Yet, the act of expelling Afghan refugees often emerges more as a political maneuver than a solution. It's wielded by host countries as leverage over Afghanistan, pushing for concessions and influencing its policies. When millions of our fellow Afghans, including the families of Afghan authorities, have entrenched roots in Pakistan, owning businesses and properties, it's clear that Afghanistan would feel the pressure. Pakistan, in this scenario, wields more influence and leverage over Afghanistan, while the Afghan governments, burdened by their own challenges, often find resistance tough. To alleviate this pressure, it would have been more pragmatic for the Afghan government to have pre-emptively prepared for the dignified return of its citizens from Pakistan. Mere accusations of Pakistan's mistreatment of Afghans cannot overshadow the Afghan leadership's own shortcomings. It was vital for the Afghan government to smoothen the process of reintegration, navigate potential hurdles, uphold moral duties, and harness the returning Afghans' skills for the nation's uplift. Pakistan's recent decision to expel all non-registered Afghans is not only a concerning measure, but it also risks exacerbating an already delicate...
Gaza and the Complex Maneuvers
Early morning on October 07, the Palestinian armed ensemble, Hamas, set forth with “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood,” a most audacious endeavor, marking a crescendo in their engagement with Israel since the tumultuous 11-day war in 2021. With claims to have dispatched no fewer than 5,000 rockets, Hamas unveiled a flamboyant display of martial prowess, while Israel, in no uncertain terms, conceded the incursion of these intrepid Hamas warriors onto its soil; this offensive encompassed land, sea, and sky. The attack was so swift and secretly executed that Israeli intelligence was struck with utter shock. It was embarrassed and taken off-guard. One of the most interesting part of the Hamas warfare tactics was the use of motor gliders. Hamas took absolute advantage of geography – Gaza and Israel are separated just by a wall. So what they did was to fly via motor glider into the Israeli territory and started attacking their targets as planned. The question arises, does Hamas miscalculated its move? Does it not know that the reaction would be severe and brutal? Didn’t they know that Israel with its unabated support of West, can’t be defeated merely by limited military operation like Al-Aqsa Flood? Then why this madness? Well what one can expect from people who have nothing to lose. In contrast, it was Israel that tasted its own medicine after long. More than 1400 Israelis have been killed so far and around 250 hostages, including a dozen of Americans. On the other hand, Hamas did not play this move just as a suicide mission. Perhaps, defeating Tel Aviv was never the mission, going by simple rationale. Hamas achieved its objectives. It shames Israeli military power and intelligence, and bitterly expose it to the world. It is pertinent to note that, Gaza is under comprehensive surveillance of Israeli forces. Nothing can go inside or come outside Gaza without their permission. So, how did Hamas do it, without even whispers. They might have relied mostly on human resources for...
Embracing Diversity, Cultivating Tolerance Must to Counter Polarization in Pakistan
Only through a dispassionate dialogue, can we approach and deliberate social issues normally hard to speak about - concerning religious diversity, equal minority rights, etc. - and promote understanding, mutual respect, and critical thinking as a protection against prejudices towards different/ minority groups and extremist narratives in the society. This was the notion that figured prominently at the dialogue titled "Polarization in Pakistan and Our Responsibility", organized by Forum for International Relations Development (FIRD) - a UK-based independent, non-governmental research and advocacy think-tank, in collaboration with Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) - an Islamabad based think tank, research and advocacy center. Mr. Toaha Qureshi MBE, Founder Chairman, FIRD, noted that polarization in Pakistan is a deeply rooted issue that has persisted for decades, with divisions along ethnic, religious, and political lines, stymieing national unity and progress. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges its historical context, aims for inclusive policies, and involves dialogue characterized by a focus on discussing the solutions, not the problems. Prominent religious scholar, Maulana Muhammad Hanif Jalandhari, underscored the importance of interfaith dialogue as a crucial means of fostering understanding, tolerance, and cooperation among people of different religious beliefs and backgrounds. He noted that interfaith dialogue provides a platform for individuals of different religious faiths to come together, discuss their beliefs, and find common ground. This can help reduce misunderstandings and conflicts based on religious differences, contributing to a more peaceful and harmonious society. Prof. Dr. Suleman Tahir, Vice Chancellor, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology (KFUEIT) Rahim Yar Khan, noted that the educational curriculum plays a significant role in determining the state of...
“What Lies Behind the Iron Brotherhood, Pakistan-China Relations” Roundtable Discussion at the University of Makran, Panjgur & Turbat
On October 10, 2023, Mr. Imtiaz Gul, Executive Director, at the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Islamabad, was invited for a roundtable discussion by Dr. Malik Tareen, Vice Chancellor at the University of Makran, Panjgur, and Dr. Abdul Saboor Baloch, Head of Department and Dean of Social Sciences at Turbat University to present his book “What Lies Behind the Iron Brotherhood, Pakistan-China Relations”, published in English and Urdu. The book illustrates China-Pakistan’s close and longstanding friendship, which is significant in international politics and diplomacy. It was also published on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
CPEC-An Explainer
For years, a debate has surrounded the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as to whether it is a mutually beneficial undertaking or primarily favorable to China alone. Disregarding the long history of cordial, time-tested, and trusted relations between Islamabad and Beijing, critics - largely foreigners -often speak of CPEC as a potential debt trap. They view this as China’s broader strategy for expanding its influence both economically and strategically by imposing unfavorable conditions - on its own will - on the recipient countries through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), of which CPEC is the flagship project. The situation on the ground, nevertheless, contradicts these views. If CPEC represented China’s debt diplomacy or a zero-sum game, then all projects under it - power plants, transmission lines, road and rail infrastructure - were initiated on the demand of Pakistani leaders i.e., the then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif when he and President Xi Jinping witnessed the signing of several contracts during the latter’s Islamabad visit. Even many Pakistanis, too, have been misled by motivated, skeptical, and critical views of CPEC projects. This report is an endeavor to clear some of the fog around CPEC by, a) briefly tracing the history of Pakistan-China relations, and b) addressing some of the most frequently asked questions around CPEC.
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I am also a member of National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting. Recently, we held a meeting with the Director General of Radio Pakistan and we told them to initiate such local programs (like Constituency Hour) in regional languages to educate and inform people. Even Indian Radio can be heard in FATA which is being used for propaganda purposes and must be closed. Therefore, we should launch some standard and quality programs like CRSS that will change the taste of the listeners.