The good news is that this is not just a vague goal, but we have already begun to see quite a few projects underway. For instance, the wind farms that we see in Sindh and solar parks in Punjab are all because of this collaboration between China and Pakistan. Another mega plant that is a crucial part of CPEC phase II is 720 MW Karot Hydropower Project, which already started its operations back in 2022. These heavy-investment projects are supported by China Three Gorges Corporation and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and are expected to reduce roughly 3 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

Pakistan’s Climate Challenges Emerge as a Major Reason for Seeking Cooperation

The most important reason why China takes a keen interest in contributing to and advancing this go-green initiative is Pakistan’s increased climate vulnerability. Unfortunately, Pakistan comes in at number 8^th in the Global Climate Risk Index (GermanWatch, 2021). The country also encountered some natural disasters in recent years like destructive flooding events, record-breaking heatwaves, erratic rainfalls, and ever-melting glaciers. In fact, if we look at the figures of monsoon flood of 2022, it tells us that around 33 million people got affected and caused damage of roughly $30billion. All these climate changes and Pakistan’s weak infrastructure also make other countries in the region more vulnerable, especially the neighbouring country, China. To protect itself and other countries in the region, China decided to lend a helping hand to Pakistan to deal with these climate issues and to adopt practices that can aid the country in going green. Following this spirit of helping its neighbouring ally, China helped Pakistan in installing solar and wind energy projects so that the usage of fossil fuels can be reduced. It was also a major contributor to ‘Ten Billion Tree Tsunami’ reforestation campaign.

Transforming Transportation and Agriculture Sectors with Climate-Friendly Projects

In addition to planting seeds and installing energy projects, this partnership also shifted its focus on transforming transportation and agriculture sectors. One policy that reaped the most benefit from this collaboration is Pakistan’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy in terms of Chinese investment and transfer of technology. Many Chinese corporations like BAIC Group, BYD, and SAIC Motor are working in close collaboration with Pakistani companies to introduce electric vehicles, establish charging stations for such vehicles, and enable local manufacturers to make batteries. When it comes to the agriculture sector, China is enabling Pakistan to adopt climate-friendly agricultural practices, tools, and resources. With the help of China, now Pakistan has access to drought-resistant seeds, drip irrigation, and digital weather forecasting.

Strengthening Technology Transfer Routes and Climate Science Diplomacy

While the above-mentioned projects are quite impressive, both countries are also strengthening the foundation of this bilateral green agenda by collaborating at institutional levels. For that purpose, the meteorological departments of Pakistan and China are also working closely. This allows them to share data and tools to conduct weather forecasting with precision and accuracy and stay alert about extreme weather conditions.

Revolutionizing The Future, Making it Green

Following the same spirit, China and Pakistan can further enhance their efforts and accelerate the progress of their sustainable development projects. Some key steps that the two countries should consider taking include:

1. Creating dedicated green funds can greatly help both China and Pakistan undertake various sustainable energy projects as these require a mammoth investment. By leaning on private corporations and seeking help from financial entities, creating this green fund can be made possible.
2. Another way to boost sustainable development projects is to readily provide green loans and technical support to small- and medium-sized entities and NGOs.
3. A key aspect to accelerate such green initiatives also involves training local government bodies to deal with the risk of climate change, to undertake and plan green projects, and to monitor environmental change and its impact.
4. Promoting projects and programs that train Pakistani professionals using China’s already implemented green strategies like flood mitigation, water resource management, and climate adaptation. Employee exchange programs and field visits can significantly support these projects.
5. Both countries also need to adopt and promote green supply chain models. This will transform the industrial mechanism and will help turn the entire process of manufacturing into a climate-friendly process. Promoting eco-labelling and establishing sustainable standards can also change the production process.
6. There’s also a need to develop a climate-proof infrastructure such as green buildings and urban designs. Both countries need to focus on upgrading existing infrastructure to be resistant to climate shocks and creating new green and eco-friendly buildings.
7. In addition to working on all these projects, training the government, and promoting research and development activities, there’s also a dire need to raise awareness among the public. With dedicated and well-curated awareness campaigns, achieving this goal is not out of reach.

The writer is Senior Professor at Bahria University, Karachi.

She can be reached at: Saminariaz91@gmail.com

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Report by TFD

In recent years, technology has dramatically transformed the fashion industry, reshaping both design processes and retail practices. Advancements in technology are playing a significant role in driving innovation within the Pakistani fashion industry. From 3D printing to virtual reality (VR) fashion shows, designers are harnessing technology to push the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship.

One of the most significant changes brought about by technology is the integration of digital design tools. Designers now have access to sophisticated software that allows them to create intricate designs and visualize their ideas in 3D. This technology streamlines the design process, enabling designers to experiment with various patterns, colors, and styles without the need for physical prototypes. As a result, the time taken to bring a concept to market has significantly decreased, allowing fashion brands to respond more swiftly to emerging trends.

Senior fashion designer Moazzam Khan says “AI is transforming the fashion business by streamlining operations such as product development, supply chain optimization, and marketing. Tools such as trend analysis, generative design, inventory management, and virtual try-ons improve creativity, efficiency, and sustainability.”

He added “Another crucial aspect of technology’s impact on fashion designs is the growing trend of sustainability. Advanced technologies such as 3D printing and sustainable fabric production techniques are enabling designers to create eco-friendly collections. This shift toward sustainability resonates with environmentally conscious consumers, fostering brand loyalty and promoting a more responsible fashion industry.”

Previously Moazzam Khan’s design team worked manually. They drafted patterns by hand on paper and assessed design and fit with physical samples. Moazzam explains, “There was a lot of human error. When it went into production, we saw a lot of fit and grading issues.” Moazzam attributes these issues to the minute differences in the “hand” of each designer. These small differences translate to bigger disparities in bulk production.

With a vision to expand, the IT team also saw a need for more robust infrastructure in the design department. Growing globally requires scalability. Scalability requires lower lead times, higher levels of technology, and higher levels of automation. For this reason, Moazzam Khan initiated a digital design transformation department in his studio.

Pakistani bridal dress tailoring typically involves intricate hand embroidery, often using techniques like zardozi, dabka, and gota work, along with embellishments like sequins and beads. The designs are rich, complicated and traditional, featuring floral or geometric patterns and often covering the entire dress, especially the neckline, hem, and sleeves. It requires intensively balanced tailoring. Addition of technology reduces the chances of human error possibilities.

Worldwide, the fashion designers work from graded digital pattern blocks. This frees them to make style line changes without disturbing the fit. Since every style comes from the same blocks, fit is more consistent between styles. In addition, the fashion designers simulate their styles. They understand how each garment will drape and fit with real-time motion simulation. The draped silhouettes become like digital “blanks” for designers to visualize their artwork. They arrange repeats, placement prints, and embroideries on the 3D sample. Then each department reviews the full collection digitally, before any physical samples are made. Since design evaluations now happen virtually, the team makes decisions quickly without wasting resources. The designers focus on creativity, rather than getting involved with administrative or operational issues.

Pakistani fashion evolution is deeply inspired by its rich culture. It is a perfect replica of tradition, culture with modern cuts. Over the years, it has changed and evolved. Technology has reshaped how the Pakistani fashion industry used to be. The textile industry is the backbone of Pakistan’s fashion scene. There have been significant changes over the years in the Pakistani fashion industry, which have made it easier to bring in the most creative ideas.

Innovation in Pakistani textiles is no longer restricted to local runways; it’s making its mark globally. Esteemed designers like Moazzam Khan have brought the elegance and vibrancy of Pakistani couture to the world stage. Events like the Pakistan Fashion Design Council (PFDC) and Fashion Pakistan Week (FPW) have become prime platforms for showcasing the creative brilliance of such designers. These high-profile gatherings not only celebrate local talent but also attract international buyers and media, paving the way for exciting global collaborations.

Moazzam Khan says “I don’t mean to replace technology with my incredibly talented and dedicated artisans. The impact of the Pakistani fashion industry extends beyond aesthetics—it’s transforming lives. Many saree brands are now partnering with local artisans, giving them a platform to display their remarkable craftsmanship in sarees, too. This collaboration not only preserves traditional techniques but also provides artisans with a steady income and wider recognition for their work.”

“Women are the backbone of Pakistan’s fashion industry, contributing their skills in stitching, embroidery, and more. Recognizing their vital role, many initiatives within the industry focus on fair wages and training programs, enabling women to gain financial independence and improve their quality of life.” Moazzam Khan tells The Financial Daily.

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MILAN (Italy): Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from Latin America, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced Monday.

The Argentine-born pope, who led the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics for over a decade, passed away at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in Vatican City, where he had been resting following a series of health complications in recent months. The Holy See did not immediately disclose the precise cause of death, but the pontiff had been facing a number of chronic health issues, including mobility problems, a partial lung loss from his youth, and recent hospitalizations due to respiratory infections.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, issued a statement praising Francis’s “extraordinary commitment to the poor, his courage in speaking uncomfortable truths, and his vision for a Church that walks with the people.” Plans for the funeral, to be held at St. Peter’s Basilica, will be released shortly, Vatican officials said.

A Papacy of Firsts: Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. He took the name “Francis” in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, symbolizing his vision of a simpler, humbler Church, closer to the poor and the marginalized.

From the outset, Francis set a new tone in the Vatican. Rejecting the traditional papal apartments for a modest guesthouse, choosing simple vestments, and famously riding in a small Fiat instead of the papal limousine, he emphasized service over status.

“I want a poor Church for the poor,” he declared early in his papacy — and he spent the next 12 years trying to live up to that call.

In a world shadowed by war, displacement, and rising division, Pope Francis stood once more before the faithful and the watching world to deliver a message rooted in the Gospel’s most radical command: peace. On Easter Sunday, beneath the brilliant Roman sky, with St. Peter’s Basilica as the backdrop and tens of thousands packed into the iconic square, the 88-year-old pontiff called for a renewed global commitment to human dignity, mercy, and nonviolence.

Despite the weight of age and the toll of recent hospitalizations, Pope Francis appeared serene and resolute. His voice, though softened by age, carried unmistakable moral authority as he delivered the Urbi et Orbi (to the city and the world) blessing. “Let the cry for peace rise from every corner of the earth,” he declared, drawing applause and solemn nods from the crowd. “Let hearts be opened, and may dialogue prevail over arms, compassion over indifference.”

The address, traditionally delivered on Christmas and Easter, serves as a spiritual reflection and political statement. This year, the Pope’s message was especially poignant, referencing the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and the ongoing humanitarian crises in regions often forgotten by the Western media. “To those who suffer under the shadow of war, to those who are displaced and forgotten, may the light of the Risen Christ be a promise of new life,” he said.

A Global Shepherd: Francis’s papacy was defined by a relentless focus on social justice, peace, and environmental stewardship. He was a vocal critic of consumer capitalism, arms trade, and political indifference to the suffering of migrants and the poor. His 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ on climate change was hailed as a landmark moment, not only in Church teaching but in the global conversation on the environment.

He traveled extensively — more than any pope in modern history—reaching out to the peripheries of the world, including visits to Myanmar, the Central African Republic, Iraq, and Mongolia. His trips often included outreach to non-Christian communities and interfaith leaders, reflecting his strong commitment to dialogue with Islam, Judaism, and other faiths.

One of his most powerful gestures came in 2019 when he knelt and kissed the feet of South Sudanese leaders during peace talks, begging them to end civil conflict. It was a moment of raw humility that encapsulated his papacy.

Champion of the Marginalized: Francis’s vision for the Church was inclusive and merciful. He frequently spoke of welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals, divorced Catholics, and those who had long felt alienated from Church life. While he did not overturn traditional Church doctrine, his approach was markedly pastoral.

“Who am I to judge?” he famously replied in 2013 when asked about gay priests—five words that reverberated around the world.

He also took historic steps toward greater inclusion of women in the Church’s decision-making processes, appointing women to key Vatican posts for the first time and opening discussions on the possibility of female deacons.

His Synod on Synodality, launched in 2021, was seen as an effort to fundamentally reimagine Church governance by listening to the voices of ordinary Catholics, including laity and minorities, across the globe.

Critics and Challenges: While widely admired on the world stage, Francis’s papacy was not without controversy. Traditionalist factions within the Church accused him of undermining doctrine and sowing confusion. His decision to limit the use of the Latin Mass in 2021 drew strong criticism from conservative groups.

He also faced pressure over the Church’s handling of clerical sexual abuse, a crisis that predated his pontificate but persisted during his reign. Though he enacted new protocols for accountability and transparency, critics argued the measures did not go far enough to punish high-ranking offenders or provide justice for survivors.

Yet through the turbulence, Francis remained focused on his core mission: mercy. “The name of God is Mercy,” he said often, and his vision never strayed far from the poor, the forgotten, and the excluded.

A Gentle Force: Despite declining health in his final years, Pope Francis remained active, continuing to write, give interviews, and appoint key Church officials. In 2023, he presided over the first phase of the Synod, calling it “the most important moment of Church listening in decades.”

Francis had long said he would resign if his health prevented him from governing effectively. But he stayed in office until the end, sustained by prayer and the support of millions of faithful.

In his final public appearance weeks before his death, he delivered a short blessing from his wheelchair in St. Peter’s Square. His voice was frail but clear: “Pray for me. And let us walk together in hope.”

With the Pope’s death, the Catholic Church now enters a period of sede vacante—the vacant seat. The College of Cardinals, many of whom were appointed by Francis himself, will soon be summoned to Rome for a conclave to elect the next pope.

Francis’s legacy will undoubtedly shape that decision. He leaves behind a Church transformed — more global, more diverse, and more engaged with the world’s pressing issues. Whether his reforms will continue or be rolled back now depends on his successor.

For millions, the memory of Francis will not fade easily. He was a pastor of the peripheries, a voice for the voiceless, and a pope who asked the world to see Christ in the most unexpected places — in refugees, in prisoners, in the poor, and in those discarded by society.

As the bells of St. Peter’s toll in mourning, the world bids farewell to a humble servant of peace, a pope of the people, and a shepherd who dared to dream of a more merciful Church.

Looking Ahead: As the world continues to face ecological collapse, economic uncertainty, and spiritual confusion, Pope Francis remains a voice of conscience. Whether addressing world leaders at the United Nations, advocating for the Amazon’s indigenous peoples, or blessing the faithful from a wheelchair, his leadership challenges the world to imagine something different: a global culture of care, solidarity, and peace.

Francis’s Easter message was not just a papal proclamation — it was a plea, a prayer, and a prophecy. “The tomb is empty,” he said. “Love has conquered. Let us not be afraid to begin again.”

The post Let Peace Prevail: Pope Francis dies at 88 appeared first on The Financial Daily.

Speaking on Geo News’ program “Geo Pakistan”, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah stated that the issue is being taken seriously and that a balanced decision will be made to protect the interests of all stakeholders, particularly Sindh.

“The prime minister will take an appropriate decision on this matter,” Sanaullah said, emphasizing that there was no intention to deprive Sindh of its rightful share of water. “We do not intend to steal even a drop of Sindh’s water.”

Sindh Government’s Stance

Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon also reaffirmed the province’s readiness to engage in government-to-government talks, stating:

“The canal issue is of public concern. The Sindh government is representing the people of Sindh.”

He added that Sindh had repeatedly voiced its reservations over the project and was open to discussions if initiated by the federal government.

Bilawal’s Remarks ‘Political Rhetoric’

Commenting on PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s recent warning that the party may quit the ruling coalition if Sindh’s concerns are ignored, Sanaullah dismissed the remarks as rhetorical flourishes.

“What Bilawal said was in the heat of delivering a speech at a public rally,” he said, urging all sides to maintain respectful political discourse and avoid inflammatory statements.

Protests and Public Disruption

Protests against the canal project continue across Sindh, with several key roads and railway tracks blocked, disrupting the movement of goods and commuters.

Sharjeel Memon appealed to demonstrators to protest responsibly:

“Protesters have been requested to demonstrate in designated grounds rather than blocking roads and tracks, which is causing harm to ordinary citizens.”

He noted that containers carrying livestock and perishable goods are stranded due to the blockades, risking significant losses.

Call for Restraint and Dialogue

Both the federal and Sindh governments appear committed to resolving the issue through dialogue, emphasizing unity and cooperation.

“We are making efforts to engage with the protesters and avoid escalation,” Memon said, affirming that PPP would continue to advocate for the rights of Sindh’s people within constitutional frameworks.

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The ill-fated vehicle was carrying members of the Bheel community, who were returning home after completing wheat harvesting work in Balochistan, according to Deputy Commissioner Ghazanfar Qadri.

The crash occurred in the early hours near the Bola Khan area, leaving more than two dozen passengers injured.

Rising Death Toll

Initially, police recovered twelve bodies from the crash site. However, four more victims succumbed to their injuries at Liaquat University Hospital in Jamshoro, raising the total death toll to 16, hospital sources confirmed.

Among the deceased were four children, according to rescue teams.

Emergency Response and Hospital Transfers

Rescue officials said that five injured passengers were shifted to Civil Hospital Hyderabad, while five others were transported to Taluka Hospital Bola Khan. However, the facility was described by DC Qadri as ill-equipped to handle critical cases, operating merely as a basic health unit.

One of the injured is reported to be in critical condition.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the accident, but an investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances that led to the deadly crash.

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The beloved chef had been undergoing treatment in the United States, but after doctors deemed further medical intervention ineffective, he returned to Karachi a month ago to spend his final days with family.

His funeral prayers will be offered today after Asr at Jamia Rashidiya in Malir, Saudabad.

A Culinary Legacy

Born on February 16, 1967, in Karachi, Chef Zakir was deeply influenced by his family’s rich culinary tradition. His father, Abdul Aziz Qureshi, was a reputed chef associated with the national airline, a legacy that inspired many in the family, including Zakir himself.

He received his early education from Kulsoom Bai Valika School and later studied at Allama Iqbal College. His professional journey began in 1980 at Karachi’s Sheraton Hotel, where his culinary talents started gaining recognition.

Chef Zakir’s passion for food took him across the globe — including Dubai, Singapore, South Africa, and Botswana — before he spent a decade in the United Kingdom, where he trained alongside top international chefs.

Television Icon and Mentor

Upon returning to Pakistan in the early 1990s, Chef Zakir quickly became a household name through his popular cooking shows on various television channels. Known for his warm personality and unmatched culinary expertise, he introduced millions of viewers to both Pakistani and international cuisines, blending tradition with innovation.

Chef Zakir leaves behind a profound legacy, having inspired generations of home cooks and professional chefs alike. His contribution to Pakistan’s food culture will be remembered with great respect and affection.

The post Renowned Chef Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 58 appeared first on The Financial Daily.

Warrants were also issued for Hammad Azhar, Saeed Sindhu, and Shehbaz Ahmed after they repeatedly failed to respond to police summons and did not join the investigation, despite being nominated in multiple FIRs related to the unrest.

Background of the Case

The violent demonstrations were part of a nationwide protest movement initiated by jailed PTI founder Imran Khan, who had called for rallies in support of the judiciary and against a proposed judicial reform package.

Following his call, protests erupted in several cities including Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, Mianwali, and Islamabad, with a major showdown occurring in Lahore on October 5.

According to police, PTI activists attacked law enforcement personnel, resulting in dozens of injuries on both sides.

“Over 80 police officers were injured in clashes in and around Islamabad,” Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had said at the time.

In Lahore, clashes broke out at key protest sites including Awan-e-Adal, Badami Bagh, and Sheranwala Gate, where police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators.

Despite a heavy police presence, protesters resisted dispersal, escalating tensions across the city.

Legal Proceedings and Investigation

Police said that all four PTI leaders had been repeatedly summoned to participate in the investigation but failed to appear.

“Their continued non-cooperation compelled the court to issue non-bailable warrants,” a senior police official stated.

The case underscores the government’s intensified scrutiny of political unrest and its zero-tolerance stance on violence against law enforcement.

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Reflecting on Suzuki’s pioneering journey and over four decades of presence in the country, Mr. Kawamura stated, “Pak Suzuki has always remained committed to its mission of providing affordable mobility to enrich the lives of people of Pakistan. For Suzuki, Pakistan holds a special place—it was the first country outside Japan where Suzuki began automobile production in 1975, even before the formation of Pak Suzuki in 1983.”

He added, “Over the years, Suzuki has earned the trust of over 2.5 million customers, becoming a household name synonymous with reliability and value.”

Highlighting Pak Suzuki’s commitment to the local market, Mr. Kawamura stated, “We invested PKR 17.4 billion in the development and localization of our new model Suzuki Every alone. We remain steadfast in driving economic growth and job creation in Pakistan.”

Mr. Kawamura emphasized the need for policy support from the government to drive industry growth. He urged the government to incentivize exports instead of imposing mandatory targets. Commenting on the government’s intention to enhance the Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) sector, he pointed out that approximately 25% of the market is occupied by imported used cars. “Curbing this could lead to a significant increase in local industry output,” he said.

He also urged the government to eliminate duty concessions for used car imports under 1300cc, as 75% of used car imports fall within this segment due to very low fixed taxes. He recommended reducing the age limit of imported vans to 3 years from the current 5-year limit.

Discussing sustainability, Mr. Kawamura said that the key focus of Pak Suzuki’s strategy for sustainable development is to rely on locally available resources. He introduced Pak Suzuki’s Biogas Project, which aims to convert bio-waste into clean and renewable fuel. “Using biogas as automobile fuel could be a breakthrough solution for Pakistan,” he stated. “It has the potential to improve the trade balance, protect the environment, and create employment in the rural areas of Pakistan.”

In conclusion, Mr. Kawamura reaffirmed Pak Suzuki’s commitment to growing alongside the people of Pakistan. He added that the company remains deeply committed to innovation, sustainability, and strengthening the local economy. He highlighted Pak Suzuki’s extensive nationwide network of 175 dealership outlets across more than 100 cities—three times larger than any other OEM in the country.

Sharing an optimistic outlook for the domestic market, he said, “The automobile CKD market is projected to grow by more than 20% this year. Pak Suzuki is well-positioned to retain its 45% market share.”

On the exports front, Mr. Kawamura noted that in the past, Pak Suzuki had exported over 3,000 Ravi pickups to Bangladesh and Nepal, along with spare parts and accessories to Europe, Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia. He reaffirmed the company’s support for government export initiatives, stating, “We are actively exploring new markets and test marketing our products in multiple countries.”

He also highlighted Pak Suzuki’s pioneering role in developing the local vendor base in Pakistan. Over the last four decades, the company has nurtured more than 100 local parts suppliers and supported several of them through technical assistance and joint ventures. This has paved the way for the localization of high-tech parts, which are now being supplied to all other OEMs. He added, “Pak Suzuki procures approximately PKR 50 billion worth of local parts annually.”

The press conference was well-attended by numerous journalists who raised questions regarding vehicle quality and government policy. Mr. Kawamura clarified that the build quality of the Suzuki Alto in Pakistan is the same as the models manufactured in Japan. He addressed the common misperception regarding its lightweight structure, explaining that lighter cars are intentionally designed to improve fuel efficiency while still incorporating essential safety features. Responding to concerns about policy, Mr. Kawamura highlighted the contradiction in government expectations—on one hand, urging manufacturers to increase exports, and on the other, imposing a steep 45% tax on each vehicle invoice, which hampers competitiveness in international markets.

The post Pak Suzuki Reaffirms Commitment to Pakistan’s Automobile Industry appeared first on The Financial Daily.

The Foreign Office (FO) confirmed that a vessel carrying foreign migrants capsized near Sirte, Eastern Libya, resulting in 11 confirmed deaths, including four Pakistanis.

“Deeply saddened by reports from our Mission in Tripoli of yet another boat capsizing incident… In which at least four Pakistanis have been confirmed dead,” the Prime Minister posted on X (formerly Twitter).

He extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured that the Pakistani Mission in Tripoli is coordinating with Libyan authorities for the repatriation of remains.

Crackdown on Human Trafficking

PM Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his government’s commitment to punishing those who lure citizens into illegal and life-threatening journeys:

“We will continue to come down hard against such elements so no family has to carry the coffins of their loved ones in such accidents,” he said.

The Foreign Office has activated its Crisis Management Unit to monitor the situation. Families can reach out for information or assistance at 051-9207887 or cmu1@mofa.gov.pk.

Deadly Trend Continues

This is the latest in a series of fatal incidents involving illegal migrants from Pakistan:

• February 2025: At least 16 Pakistanis died and 10 went missing in a similar accident off Libya’s coast.

• January 2025: Over 40 Pakistanis were killed when a boat heading from Mauritania to Spain sank.

• December 2024: More than 80 Pakistanis drowned near Greece, in one of the worst tragedies of its kind.

Driven by poverty and the pursuit of better opportunities, thousands of Pakistanis risk their lives and pay hefty sums to traffickers to reach Europe via dangerous sea routes.

Accountability Measures in Pakistan

In response to mounting public outcry, the federal government has:

• Dismissed 35 FIA officials

• Removed former FIA Director General Ahmad Ishaq Jahangir over the slow pace of investigations into human smuggling and migrant deaths

• Launched nationwide action against human trafficking networks

Additionally, Jamia Naeemia, Lahore, issued a religious decree (fatwa) declaring illegal migration both unlawful and un-Islamic, urging people to refrain from using forbidden methods to travel abroad.

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In a seven-page reply, the government asserted that the transfers made under Article 200(1) of the Constitution were transparent and permanent, and did not require fresh oaths or reappointments.

“The contentions of the petitioners are denied on all counts,” the response states, adding that the President’s role is procedural, while the real authority lies with the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP).

Petitions Filed by IHC Judges, Bar Associations

The petitions were filed under Article 184(3) by five IHC judges — Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani, Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, and Justice Saman Riffat Imtiaz. They challenged:

• The appointment of Justice Sarfraz Dogar as Acting Chief Justice of the IHC

• The transfer of judges from Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan High Courts to the IHC

• The determination of seniority following the transfers

The judges argued that the transfers lacked manifest public interest, infringed on the separation of powers, and affected judicial independence.

SC Bench & Proceedings

A five-member SC bench, headed by Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, and including Justices Naeem Afghan, Shahid Bilal Hassan, Salahuddin Panhwar, and Shakeel Ahmed, is hearing the case.

During the last hearing:

• The bench noted that judicial transfers must be seen under Article 200, not Article 175, and that judges are not civil servants.

• Justice Afghan questioned why new judges were not appointed from within the same provinces instead of transferring existing ones.

• The court emphasized that transfers are permanent, requiring the full process again for reversal.

• Notices were issued to the Acting CJ of IHC Sarfraz Dogar, other transferred justices, the Judicial Commission, and the Attorney General.

The case has been adjourned till April 17.

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