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Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden said that he believed Hama...
21/10/2023

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WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden said that he believed Hamas’s attack on Israel two weeks ago was aimed at disrupting warming ties between the country and Saudi Arabia.

“One of the reasons why they acted like they did… why Hamas moved on Israel… (was) because they knew I was about to sit down with the Saudis,” Biden told guests at a campaign fundraiser.

“The Saudis wanted to recognize Israel… unite the Middle East,” he said.

Momentum toward a landmark US-brokered deal to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia – guardian of Islam’s two holiest sites – was shattered by the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel.

The Hamas group stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip, taking more than 200 hostages and killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has since vowed to destroy Hamas, and says around 1,500 of the group’s fighters were killed in clashes before its army regained control of the area initially under attack.

A bombing campaign launched in response has levelled entire city blocks in Gaza, so far killing 4,137 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Saudi officials announced on October 14 during a visit to Riyadh by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the country had suspended talks with Israel on normalization of relations.

Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, had spoken of progress with Israel but also insisted on movement on the Palestinian cause.

The Gulf kingdom has never recognized Israel and has not joined the 2020 Abraham Accords, brokered by the United States, which led neighboring Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, as well as Morocco, to establish diplomatic ties with Israel.

The Biden administration had pressed Saudi Arabia to follow suit, with Riyadh demanding in exchange security guarantees from Washington and assistance in developing a civil nuclear program.

In an interview with Fox News last month, Saudi’s crown prince said he was “getting closer every day” to a normalization agreement with Israel, while emphasizing the importance of the Palestinian question for his country.

Hamas, the Palestinian movement in power in the Gaza Strip, opposes normalization agreements with Israel.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909KARACHI: The Khunjerab Pass, a major land trade route betw...
21/10/2023

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KARACHI: The Khunjerab Pass, a major land trade route between Pakistan and China, will be converted to an all-weather border, Pakistani caretaker prime minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar said at an event at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing on Friday.

China is a major ally and investor in Pakistan. The two countries collaborate on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with more than $65 billion pledged for road, rail, and other infrastructure developments in the South Asian nation.

“As per the consensus reached in Beijing during my visit, our land border at Khunjerab Sost will be converted into an all-weather model,” Kakar said.

He added that they would like to upgrade customs and other logistic services to facilitate trade and movement of people.

The pass connects Gilgit-Baltistan with China’s Xinjiang region and was reopened after closing for almost three years in April 2023. The land border was closed in 2020 after the outbreak of COVID-19.

Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border at more than 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) above sea level, is closed during winter months because of harsh weather.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909LUCKNOW: Netherlands captain Scott Edwards won the toss an...
21/10/2023

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LUCKNOW: Netherlands captain Scott Edwards won the toss and chose to bat first in the World Cup game with Sri Lanka at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Saturday.

The Dutch, who stunned South Africa last time out for their first win over a Test-playing nation at the 50-over showpiece, are unchanged.

Sri Lanka, the only team in the 10-nation tournament yet to win a game after three successive defeats, made two changes with Dusan Hemantha and Kasun Rajitha replacing Dunith Wellalage and Lahiru Kumara.

Sri Lanka left with regrets after squandering strong start: Nissanka

Netherlands: Vikramjit Singh, Max O’Dowd, Colin Ackermann, Bas de Leede, Teja Nidamanuru, Scott Edwards (capt/wkt), Sybrand Engelbrecht, Roelof van der Merwe, Logan van Beek, A***n Dutt, Paul van Meekeren

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (capt/wkt), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dushan Hemantha, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka

Umpires: Ahsan Raza (PAK) and Marais Erasmus RSA)

TV Umpire: Rod Tucker (AUS)

Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL)

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909PESHAWAR: Fruit merchants here unmasked ‘corruption practi...
21/10/2023

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PESHAWAR: Fruit merchants here unmasked ‘corruption practices’ in connivance with authorities concerned in clearance of fruits-laden vehicles from Kharlachi to Ghulam Khan Checkpoints.

According to traders, customs staff at Kharlachi and Ghulam Khan Checkpoints clear the vehicles loaded with fruits from Afghanistan to Pakistan by showing false declaration and underweight, which is unjust with the traders and importers who clear their consignments/ trucks by paying all taxes/ duties at Torkham border. They said the illegal practices were inflicting massive loss to the public exchequer in head of duties/ taxes.

The serious revelations came into discussion during a meeting between a delegation of Peshawar Fruits Traders Association and President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Fuad Ishaq here at the Chamber House, here on Friday.

The traders’ delegation was headed by the association president Haji Alif Jan Mohmand and vice president Haji Mushtaq Hussain. Sanaullah Khan, senior vice president of the Chamber was also present. Other members of the traders’ delegation include Haji Khan Muhammad, Haji Faqir Muhammad, Haji Samdani, Haji Imtiaz, Haji Wali Khan, Haji Noorrani, Haji Nawab Khan, Haji Sheena Khan and Haji Taj Muhammad.

The ban on export of Kinnow was another central point that was discussed thoroughly in the meeting. The participants elaborated about restriction on Kinnow export.

Fuad Ishaq promptly responded to this crucial matter, stating that the ban on Kinnow export was enforced before December 01.

The SCCI chief explained Pakistan’s Kinnow was not fully ready till December. He added this restriction on export was aimed at preventing from damaging the quality Pakistani Kinnow in the global market. Bumper crop of Kinnow is ready before time owing to climate change, so the associations in consultation with relevant institutions agreed on that this year the export of Kinnow should be allowed before 15 days.

Fuad Ishaq said there was also agreement between federal ministry of Food and Agriculture, relevant authorities and association about export of Kinnow before time. However, he said the Ministry of Commerce was yet not issued formal notification in this regard.

Eventually, the SCCI chief made a demand for allowing export of Kinnow before 15 days or from (Nov 15, 2023).

On the occasion, Fuad Ishaq gave a concrete proposal for prevention of smuggling in mutual trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling for bringing Pakistani import duties/ taxes equal to Afghanistan imports duties so that will not only eradicate smuggling but abolish transit trade, as well.

Earlier, members of the delegation of Peshawar Fruits Traders Association formally congratulated the newly elected president Fuad Ishaq and senior vice president Sanaullah Khan and expressed hope that both new office bearers along with rest of the cabinet will play an important role in resolution of the business community issues.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909URUMQI, China: Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has expr...
21/10/2023

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URUMQI, China: Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has expressed Pakistan's interest in partnering with Xinjiang in promoting connectivity in terms of infrastructure development, economic synergy, trade and investment, agriculture, educational exchanges, science and technology, people-to-people connections.

Addressing the students and faculty of Xinjiang University in Urumqi on Friday, he said Pakistan was seeking to learn from Xinjiang's success in agricultural modernisation. "We would also aim to set up a joint agricultural demonstration zone in Pakistan to introduce modern farming techniques and practices," he said.

The prime minister said Pakistan aimed to develop linkages between the industries of Xinjiang and Pakistan, especially Gilgit-Baltistan region. He said one particular area in this regard could be solar energy, a key sector in Xinjiang.

He said: "We look forward to promote cultural and people to people connections with Xinjiang. He invited tourists from Xinjiang and other parts of China to visit tourist places in Pakistan.

The prime minister said Xinjiang held a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis as neighbouring region with longstanding cultural and historical linkages.

He said Khunjerab border connecting Pakistan and China through this region was a more than a geographical demarcation. "It is not only a channel of trade and transportation but also a vital bridge that connects the two great nations."

He said, "We will jointly work to identify the respective strengths of Gilgit-Baltistan and Xinjiang and build on our synergies for improving the livelihoods of the people of our region."

The prime minister said as per consensus reached in Beijing, Pakistan's land border at Khunjerab would be converted into an all-weather border.

"We will like to upgrade the customs and other logistic services to facilitate trade and movement of people. He said Pakistan aimed to utilise Xinjiang's position as an important nod of CPEC and its linkages with Pakistan.

The prime minister said China and Pakistan relationship was unique and special. "It is rooted in bilateral trust, mutual respect and shared aspirations and invaluable warm that has been nurtured by successive generations of leadership and people of our countries."

PM Kakar said Pakistan views its ties with China from a strategic long term perspective. He said in this ever changing global landscape, Pakistan-China friendship is a constant and will remain so. He said building on the success of our political ties the two countries have placed special focus on the economic partnership manifested in CPEC.

The prime minister also visited the History Museum of Xinjiang University where he was briefed with regard to the history of the 99 year old Xinjiang University.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909ISLAMABAD: The importers and traders are facing serious te...
21/10/2023

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ISLAMABAD: The importers and traders are facing serious technical problems in filing of sales tax returns due to restrictions imposed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Leading sales tax experts told Business Recorder that the restriction in reporting of supplies in sales tax returns against the H.S. code available in purchases made during the last twelve months has created serious problems in the smooth filing of sales tax returns by the importer and traders. A large number of traders are unable to file their monthly sales tax returns.

According to the details, FBR has placed a restriction on reporting of supplies only with those H.S. codes which were imported/ purchased during the last twelve months in their electronic sale tax return filing system.

ERS or STARR system: Taxpayers allowed to file non-export-related GST refunds

The restriction was introduced last year through the sales tax general order (STGO) 13 of 2022; however, traders have not faced any problem in filing annex ‘C’ in their sales tax return at that time.

It seems some system checks have been placed in the electronic filing system this month and therefore traders have facing problems in filing their annex ‘C’ this month.

Upon seeking opinion, renowned tax export Arshad Shehzad explained the law has rightly introduced to curtailed element of misreporting and the chances of fake invoices through a change in description/ HS code of items which are not available to their stock.

The step is; therefore, in the right direction to introduce proper check and balance and reduced the revenue leakages cause due to inadmissible input tax adjustment.

On the other hand, he suggested the limitation of the time period of twelve months placed in the system is incorrect and illegal. The law does not provide any such time limitation in the referred STGO nor does it make any sense. The traders may have old stocks of over the years.

This reporting problem is more related to the restriction of the time limit of twelve months rather than the other conditions of the STGO.

He suggested FBR should take note of this issue and rectify the implementation problem in their electronic system to remove the technical glitches due to which a large number of traders could not file their returns timely.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909PESHAWAR: FF Steel (Frontier Foundry Steel (Pvt) Ltd), the...
21/10/2023

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PESHAWAR: FF Steel (Frontier Foundry Steel (Pvt) Ltd), the largest unlisted steel manufacturing company in Pakistan, has achieved a major corporate milestone of conversion in to a Public Limited Company, said a press release on Friday.

FF Steel has consistently maintained its esteemed reputation within the steel industry, primarily recognised for its production of high-quality steel bars and ensuring the utmost customer satisfaction.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court will hear petitions seeking g...
21/10/2023

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ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court will hear petitions seeking general elections within 90 days and challenging military trials of civilians on October 23 (Monday).

A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa and comprising Justice Aminuddin Khan and Justice Athar Minallah, will hear petitions filed by the Supreme Court Bar Association and others seeking directives to hold general elections within 90 days as stipulated by the Constitution.

Meanwhile, a five-member special bench led by Justice Ijazul Ahsan, and comprising Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, and Justice Ayesha Malik will hear petitions challenging the trial of civilians in military courts.

Military trials of civilians: SC to take up pleas on Oct 23

The SCBA moved the top court to direct the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to announce the date for polls within the constitutionally mandated period of 90 days following the dissolution of the lower house – National Assembly – on August 9.

The lawyers’ body also challenged the approval of digital census 2023 by the Council of Common Interests (CCI) on August 5.

A five-member larger bench of the Supreme Court will take up about a dozen petitions challenging the trials of civilians in military courts on October 23 (Monday).

The pleas include those filed by former premier Imran Khan, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), PPP leader Aitzaz Ahsan, former chief justice of Pakistan Jawwad S Khawaja, five members of the civil society, Junaid Razzaq and Zaman Khan Vardag.

The last time a six-judge SC bench had taken up challenges to the trial of civilians in military courts was on August 3.

The same month, the Supreme Court had rejected a plea, filed by senior counsel Faisal Siddiqui on behalf of civil society activists, to constitute a full court for the case.

The next day, it postponed further proceedings for an indefinite period, despite requests by the petitioners to conclude and decide the matter during that week.

Following May 9 violence, the National Assembly had passed a resolution demanding that the rioters be tried under the Army Act. Days later, the army had revealed that military proceedings against “102 miscreants” were under way.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909WASHINGTON: The United States is imposing sanctions on thr...
21/10/2023

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WASHINGTON: The United States is imposing sanctions on three China-based companies that it said on Friday have worked to supply missile-applicable items to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.

A US State Department statement identified the firms as General Technology Limited, Beijing Luo Luo Technology Development Co Ltd, and Changzhou Utek Composite Company Ltd.

It said General Technology had worked to supply brazing materials used to join components in ballistic missile rocket engines and in the production of combustion chambers; Beijing Luo Luo had worked to supply mandrels and other machinery, which can be used in the production of solid-propellant rocket motors, the US said.

US sanctions support network for Iran’s missile, drone programs

The third firm, Changzhou Utek Composite, had worked since 2019 to supply D-glass fiber, quartz fabric, and high silica cloth, all of which have applications in missile systems, the statement said.

“Today’s actions demonstrate that the United States will continue to act against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, their means of delivery, and associated procurement activities of concern, wherever they occur,” the statement said.

China’s embassy in Washington and Changzhou Utek Composite did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The other two firms could not immediately be reached for comment.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Kashif A...
21/10/2023

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Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Kashif Anwar has said that Pakistan can fetch huge foreign exchange by exporting skilled manpower, so special attention should be paid to the skill development.
He expressed these views while talking to Director General Punjab Skills Development Authority Sahibzadi Waseema Umar at LCCI. Additional Director General Punjab Skills Development Authority Haroon Naseer was also present on the occasion.
LCCI President said that due to the lack of skill development, we cannot take advantage of opportunities at the global level. He said that Saudi Arabia is establishing five new cities but we do not have the required skilled manpower to take advantage of this opportunity.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909BEIJING: China said on Friday it will require export permi...
21/10/2023

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BEIJING: China said on Friday it will require export permits for some graphite products to protect national security, springing a surprise with another bid to control critical mineral supply in response to challenges over its global manufacturing dominance.

China is the world’s top graphite producer and exporter. It also refines more than 90% of the world’s graphite into the material that is used in virtually all EV battery anodes, which is the negatively charged portion of a battery.

“This bold and unexpected move by China in graphite has taken us by surprise, arriving far sooner than anyone could have predicted,” said Kien Huynh, chief commercial officer at Alkemy Capital Investments, which is focused on developing projects in the energy transition metals sector.

Beijing requires the export permits at a time when many foreign governments are ratcheting up pressure on Chinese companies over their industrial practices.

The European Union is weighing levying tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, arguing they unfairly benefit from subsidies. Also, the US government earlier this week widened curbs on Chinese companies’ access to semiconductors, including stopping sales of more advanced artificial intelligence chips made by Nvidia.

China’s graphite curbs are similar to those imposed since Aug. 1 for two chip-making metals, gallium and germanium. The restrictions have slashed exports of those metals recently and pushed up prices outside of the country.

The action is intensifying efforts among miners outside China to bring graphite projects to fruition while efforts to find alternatives will also be ramped up. “What China is saying to the West with this decision is that we are not going to help you make electric cars, you have to find your own way to do that,” Northern Graphite CEO Hugues Jacquemin said.

China’s commerce ministry said the move on graphite was “conducive to ensuring the security and stability of the global supply chain and industrial chain, and conducive to better safeguarding national security and interests”. It added that it was not targeting any specific country. Top buyers of graphite from China include Japan, the United States, India and South Korea, according to Chinese customs data.

Under the new restrictions, China will require as of Dec. 1 that exporters apply for permits to ship two types of graphite, including high-purity, high-hardness and high intensity synthetic graphite material, and natural flake graphite and its products.

Three types of “highly sensitive” graphite items had already been under temporary controls, the commerce ministry said, and are included in the new list.

Meanwhile, it dropped temporary controls on five less sensitive graphite items used in basic industries such as steel, metallurgy, and chemicals.

With rising sales of electric vehicles, automakers are racing to lock in supplies from outside China, but shortages are looming.

“With this new graphite export curb, South Korean firms which heavily rely on China for graphite imports would need to seek alternatives, such as mines from the United States or Australia, but it would likely increase the cost burden for many,” said Kang Dong-jin, an analyst at Hyundai Motor Securities.

South Korea’s trade ministry said a statement that it had held a meeting on Friday with battery and material makers on how to respond to the export curbs.

“The South Korean government will closely communicate... to avoid production disruptions in the lithium-ion battery sector,” South Korea’s industry minister Ahn Duk-geun said.

Japan’s top government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno said on Friday the country plans to ask China about the “operational policies” of the new measures and will “take appropriate steps” if they violate World Trading Organization rules.

Shares in China’s new energy vehicle and battery makers rose after the announcement.

Analysts said it was not clear how much impact the new measures on graphite will have in the short term.

“This control is not a complete ban, and there has been no significant impact on any industry during the previous temporary control,” said Ivan Lam, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research.

Prices for natural flake graphite were 3,950 yuan ($539.62) a metric ton this week, down 25.5% from the beginning of this year because of declining demand from the EV sector, according to consultancy Mysteel.

“This action could set them on an upward trajectory internationally, while keeping domestic prices low for Chinese battery producers,” said Tom Kavanagh, head of battery metals at commodity and energy pricing agency Argus.

Still, exports are likely to rise ahead of Dec. 1, said Echo Ma, an analyst at Rystad Energy, especially to countries with established battery industries like Japan, South Korea and the United States. China has reduced natural graphite mining in recent years to protect the environment, instead ramping up synthetic graphite output since 2021. The synthetic form now accounts for 70% of China’s output, according to Mysteel.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909Apple has introduced a new Apple Pencil priced at $79, fea...
20/10/2023

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Apple has introduced a new Apple Pencil priced at $79, featuring a concealed USB-C charging port, set to be launched in November. Unlike its predecessors, which required users to plug the pencil into the iPad charging port for charging, this model simplifies the charging process. This more affordable Apple Pencil is compatible with all USB-C iPads, though it does not offer some of the advanced capabilities found in pricier Apple Pencils.
One notable difference is that it can magnetically attach to the sides of USB-C iPads but lacks wireless charging functionality, a feature present in the $129 second-generation Apple Pencil. Additionally, it does not have pressure sensitivity, a characteristic available in the older $99 Apple Pencil. Consequently, it may be more suitable for individuals primarily interested in note-taking rather than digital artistry. This release follows last month's unveiling of the new iPhone 15 lineup, which has transitioned to USB-C charging, replacing the Lightning port. Apple's decision to adopt the common charging standard is in line with European Union regulations.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909In a recent poll conducted by Startup Pakistan to understa...
20/10/2023

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In a recent poll conducted by Startup Pakistan to understand user preference and choice amongst Tracking and Security Solution providers in Pakistan, iTecknologi has emerged as No. 1 preferred choice of customers across Pakistan.
As per the results of the comprehensive survey, encompassing a diverse cross-section of demographics, industries, customers, and industry experts, iTecknologi have been recognized and acknowledged as the leading brand in the Tracking and Security segment.
This recognition is attributed to its cutting-edge technology, user-friendly mobile application interface, and a diverse portfolio of innovative products.
iTecknologi Group of Companies, a distinguished conglomerate with a global presence, has evolved from a small unit into a thriving enterprise, driven by an overarching vision and pioneering spirit. Its multifaceted operations span essential sectors, including Tracking & Security, Logistics & Transportation, Software Development, Information Technology, Car Rental, GIS & Mapping, and Food.
ITecknologi’s recent accolades, such as the prestigious Digi Leaders Awards, Brand of the Year Award, Consumer Choice Award, and a nomination at the Best Place to Work Award, underscore its commitment to excellence.
iTecknologi collaborates extensively with a range of firms in Pakistan, particularly in the automotive industry, Law enforcement agencies, Banking sector, health care, telecommunications, and more. In the domain of automotive technology, iTecknologi is renowned for its avant-garde solutions and unwavering 24/7 operational support.
The remarkable journey of iTecknologi, culminating in its ascendancy to the forefront of Tracking and Security solutions, stands as a resounding testament towards innovation and customer satisfaction.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909ISLAMABAD: The Petroleum Division has failed to recover bi...
20/10/2023

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ISLAMABAD: The Petroleum Division has failed to recover billions of rupees from exploration and production companies in the oil and gas sector on account of royalty, training fund, and social welfare on 40 wells.

The Prime Minister Secretariat as well as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) directed repeatedly to the Petroleum Division for recovery pending against a number of E&P companies.

No response was received from the division on the query sent by Business Recorder.

Audit Report 2021-22 of the Petroleum Division also observed that the DG (PC) Petroleum Division did not recover royalty on oil and gas from nine E&P companies in 40 fields. This resulted in non-realisation of royalty amounting to Rs10.7 billion.

Evolution, challenges, and prospects of oil and gas exploration sector

M/s Spud Energy default on account of payments of royalty pertaining to the previous year but DG (PC) did not initiate any action except issuing a letter for re-legalisation of royalty. In another case, the DG (PC) did not recover fine on late payment of royalty on oil and gas from the GHPL in Gambat South Block under E&P Rules 2009. This resulted in the non-realisation of royalty and subsequent fine amounting Rs0.672 million.

In March 2023 report to the Prime Minister Secretariat, Rs44,439 million worth of royalty was outstanding obligations against these companies. In April 2023 again, Prime Minister Secretariat expressed serious concern over the accumulation of unpaid obligations on accounts of royalty, training fund, social welfare and production bonus to the tune of Rs44 billion and $16.27 million and directed the Petroleum Division to recover the amount. In line with the directives of the prime minister, the Petroleum Division had written various letters to these E&P companies.

In a letter to PEL (Pvt) Limited asked payments of royalty in respect of Badar, Block-22 Sukkar and Baddin IV South.

On January 2023, in another letter directed PEL to deposit the outstanding amount of social welfare obligations of $455,818 in the joint accounts of concerned DCs/DCOs pertaining to the financial year 2021-22 against Kandra, Salam, Badin-IV (Ayesha, Aminah), Badar and Balock-22 (Salam, Sadiq, Khanpur).

M/s FHL and M/s Spud Energy cleared Rs1,025 million royalty, social welfare, training and area rental, however, M/s PEL cleared only Rs376 million. These recoveries have been made from February 2023 to June 2023.

Please like and follow pagehttps://www.facebook.com/begreen909The Supreme Court (SC) will take up petitions challenging ...
20/10/2023

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The Supreme Court (SC) will take up petitions challenging the trials of civilians in military courts on October 23, reported Aaj News.

Justice Ijazul Ahsan will lead the bench that includes Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi and Justice Ayesha Malik.

On Thursday, petitioner Junaid Razzaq, father of Arzam Junaid, who is in military custody, approached the apex court to expedite the hearing of the case, stating that the military court trials had already begun, and requested that the case be scheduled for the third week of October.

Arzam was arrested on May 15 and transferred to the custody of the commanding officer in Lahore on May 25. A period of more than four months has lapsed since the transfer of his custody to military authorities.

The petitioner claimed that this commencement of military court trials for civilians was a clear violation of an apex court order that was issued on August 3, 2023.

The above-mentioned case was last heard on August 3, by a six-judge bench, headed by former Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial.

In the last hearing, Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan informed the court that the military’s top officials and the government are seriously considering providing appeal against the verdict of the military court (MC) to the level of high court.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) demanded that the concerned quarters and the authorities should honour their undertaking in the apex court and should immediately halt the process of conducting the trial of cases against civilians in military courts.

The spokesman for PTI chief Shoaib Shaheen, in his letter to the AGP, reminded his commitments before the SC that there will be no trials of the persons in military custody.

“In reference to the court order dated 03.08.2023, I would like to inform and request that on 21.07.2023, Constitution Petition Nos. 24 to 28 & 30 of 2023 was fixed for hearing before the SC, wherein you after seeking instructions from the federal government made a statement before the top court that there will be no trials of the persons in military custody,” he added.

“In view of the above, you are hereby requested to inform the concerned quarters and the authorities to honour the undertaking and implement the order dated 03.08.2023 in its true letter and spirit and not to commence the trial as per undertaking and the order of SC,” Shaheen added.

Background

Former chief justice of Pakistan Jawwad S Khawaja, senior lawyer Chaudhry Aitzaz Ahsan, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, and the members of civil society have filed petitions under Article 184 (3) of the constitution before the apex court, asking it to declare that the trials of the civilians arrested in light of the May 9 and 10 protests under the Army Act and Official Secrets Act are in violation of Article 25 of the constitution, until and unless legal and reasonable guidelines are framed to structure the discretion not to arbitrarily try civilians under the Army Act.

On May 9, following arrest of the PTI chief from the premises of Islamabad High Court (IHC), PTI supporters thronged the streets in protest.

The protesters damaged several military and state installations, including the Corps Commander’s residence (Jinnah House) in Lahore and the gates of the military’s General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.

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