Latest news with #RiazAliPanhwar
Express Tribune
06-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Tariffs and trade wars
The US imposition of 29% tariffs on Pakistani goods has sparked intense debate among trade experts, economists and policymakers. I believe the fresh US tariffs will have a devastating impact on Pakistan's export-oriented industries, particularly textiles and apparel. These industries account for a significant portion of Pakistan's exports and employ millions of workers. The tariffs will lead to a decline in exports to the US market, resulting in significant revenue losses for the country. Moreover, the tariffs will increase costs for Pakistani exporters, making their products less competitive in the global market. This will result in a decline in Pakistan's exports to other countries, exacerbating the country's trade deficit. The tariffs will also lead to higher prices for consumers, as importers pass on the additional costs, resulting in higher inflation and reduced purchasing power. According to the World Bank, Pakistan's tariff rate is 9.03%, which is significantly higher than the world average of 2.59%. This highlights the need for Pakistan to reduce its tariffs and make its exports more competitive in the global market. To mitigate the impact of tariffs, the Pakistani government should engage in diplomatic efforts to negotiate with trading partners to reduce or eliminate tariffs. Additionally, the government should focus on diversifying Pakistan's export base and providing support to exporters through various incentives. It needs to take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of tariffs and work towards creating a fair and equitable trade environment. Riaz Ali Panhwar Hyderabad
Express Tribune
03-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Demonstration of IHL
The Government of Pakistan's decision to dispatch humanitarian aid to Myanmar, notwithstanding the country's tumultuous past with the Muslim community, is a testament to Pakistan's commitment to upholding the principles of international humanitarian law (IHL) and humanitarian assistance. Pursuant to the principles enshrined in the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, Pakistan has demonstrated its adherence to the fundamental principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence. The provision of humanitarian aid to Myanmar, despite the country's history of human rights abuses against its Muslim minority, exemplifies Pakistan's commitment to prioritising humanitarian concerns over political differences. In accordance with Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, which mandates that parties to a conflict treat civilians with respect and dignity, Pakistan's humanitarian assistance to Myanmar demonstrates its commitment to upholding the dignity and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity or faith. Furthermore, Pakistan's actions are in conformity with the principles of customary international humanitarian law, which obliges states to provide humanitarian assistance to individuals affected by natural disasters or armed conflicts. The provision of emergency relief goods, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, food, medicines and water purification modules, is a tangible manifestation of Pakistan's commitment to alleviating human suffering and promoting humanitarian values. The Government of Pakistan deserves acclaim for its exemplary display of humanitarian leadership and its commitment to upholding the principles of IHL. This selfless act serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritising humanitarian concerns and promoting a culture of compassion, empathy and humanity. Riaz Ali Panhwar Hyderabad
Express Tribune
23-03-2025
- Express Tribune
Holy journey, unholy experience
As a recent pilgrim to the holy cities of Makkah and Madina, I am compelled to express my deep concern and disappointment over the deplorable treatment of Pakistani pilgrims by unscrupulous travel agents. The lack of accountability and oversight has led to a systemic exploitation of pilgrims, who are often left vulnerable and disillusioned. Every Muslim aspires to visit these sacred cities, and millions from around the world make the journey each year. However, for first-time pilgrims, navigating the complexities of travel arrangements can be daunting. This is where travel agents come in, promising luxurious accommodations and seamless experiences. But, more often than not, these promises prove to be empty. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, many pilgrims are left stranded, with no one to receive them or guide them to their accommodations. The difficulties only mount from there, with agents back in Pakistan either unreachable or unresponsive to pleas for help. Pilgrims are often forced to rely on the kindness of strangers or the assistance of fellow travelers to navigate the unfamiliar terrain. To add insult to injury, many agents fail to provide accommodations near the holy sites, forcing pilgrims to travel long distances, often missing crucial prayers and gatherings. The lack of empathy and understanding displayed by these agents is unacceptable, and their actions are a disservice to the values of hospitality and respect that are hallmarks of our faith. It is shocking that while the Saudi government treats pilgrims with utmost respect and dignity, our own travel agents exploit and mistreat them. The practice of charging exorbitant rates for subpar services including hotel rooms is rampant, with some agents charging foreigners 100% more than the original price. This is not only a financial burden but also a betrayal of trust, as pilgrims are often forced to part with their hard-earned savings in exchange for promises that are never fulfilled. The Government of Pakistan needs to take immediate action against these unscrupulous travel agencies. A complaint cell should be established at airports, allowing returning pilgrims to report their experiences and seek justice. The government must ensure that travel agencies are held accountable for their actions, and that pilgrims are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Riaz Ali Panhwar Hyderabad
Express Tribune
26-01-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Ban on LLB admissions
The Pakistan Bar Council's recent decision to impose a moratorium on new LLB admissions in several law institutions and colleges across the country, including the University of Sindh, has evoked a mixed reaction from stakeholders. The ban serves as a catalyst for these institutions to rectify their deficiencies and enhance their infrastructure, registration processes, and treatment of tutors, ensuring fair examination results and acceptable behaviour towards students, in accordance with the principles of natural justice. This ban is anticipated to yield better educational standards and a brighter future for law students, ultimately contributing to the advancement of the legal profession. Conversely, the ban has disrupted the education of current students, potentially impacting their academic progress and future prospects, and may be deemed a breach of their legitimate expectations. Furthermore, the ban may have financial implications for the institutions, affecting their ability to provide education and employ requisite staff, and may also be considered a restraint on trade. Prospective students planning to enroll in these institutions are also left with limited options for pursuing a law degree, potentially delaying their academic and professional goals, and may be deemed to have suffered an injustice. In light of these circumstances, it is imperative for the administration to take immediate action to address the issues prompting the ban and work towards lifting it, in order to mitigate the negative consequences and prevent the ban from becoming a double-edged sword. The administration must ensure that the institutions comply with the relevant laws, regulations, and standards, and provide a conducive learning environment for students. As the saying goes, 'when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.' The institutions/colleges must use this ban as an opportunity to revamp their systems, improve their standards, and come out stronger on the other side. Advocate Riaz Ali Panhwar Hyderabad
