CSS Chronicles (47th Issue) June 2024 Edition

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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
1 National 05
a. The Application of Renewable Energy Resources in Pakistan 06

b. Reaching for the Cosmos: Space Future of Pakistan 09
c. Heat waves, Wildfires, Dryness, etc. Is Pakistan being Hurt Even More 13
Badly by Climate Change?
2 International 17
a. Role of the United Nations in the Palestine Conflict 18

b. Elections in India 22
c. Saudi-Iran Relations Post-Raisi 25
3 Monthly Press Review 29
4 Philosopher’s Corner 49
5 Wisdom Archives 53
6 Quotes for You! 57
7 Screening Test Alert 61
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VOLUME 4 NEW VOLUME
Gratitude is in style! A heartfelt thank you to all the dedicated CSS aspirants
whose unwavering support and enthusiasm have propelled us to launch
our 4th volume. Your passion for the craft fuels our journey, and we can't
wait to continue providing you with the latest trends, insights, and
inspiration in the world of CSS.
THANK YOU FOR BEING THE FOUNDATION OF OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

AND FOR INSPIRING US TO REACH NEW HEIGHTS.
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CSS Chronicles Volume 3 | Edition 11
NATIONAL
THE APPLICATION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY
RESOURCES IN PAKISTAN
REACHING FOR THE COSMOS: SPACE FUTURE OF

PAKISTAN
HEAT WAVES, WILDFIRES, DRYNESS, ETC. IS PAKIS-

TAN BEING HURT EVEN MORE BADLY BY CLIMATE
CHANGE?
CSS | CHRONICLES VOLUME 4 EDITION 12
5
THE APPLICATION OF
RENEWABLE ENERGY
RESOURCES IN PAKISTAN
Hamza Ahmad
Introduction The Current Energy Land-

Pakistan, a country scape
endowed with abundant Pakistan’s energy sector
natural resources, has has long been dominated
been grappling with by oil, gas, and coal, which
energy shortages for de- together account for the
cades. The traditional reli- majority of the country's
ance on fossil fuels has not electricity generation. The
only strained the economy heavy dependence on im-

but also contributed to ported fossil fuels has led
environmental degrada- to a precarious energy
tion. In recent years, there security situation, with
has been a growing rec- supply disruptions and
ognition of the need to price volatility being
diversify the energy mix common. Additionally, the
and invest in renewable environmental impact of
energy resources. This fossil fuel consumption,
shift is driven by both including air pollution and
necessity and opportunity, greenhouse gas emis-
as renewable energy sions, has raised serious
presents a sustainable concerns.
path to energy security,
economic growth, and Renewable Energy Poten-
environmental conserva- tial
tion. Pakistan is richly endowed
6
with renewable energy Pakistan’s energy mix. The Board (AEDB) and the Na-
resources, including solar, country has a potential of tional Electric Power Regu-
wind, hydropower, and over 60,000 MW of hydro- latory Authority (NEPRA)
biomass. Harnessing power, primarily in the have been instrumental in
these resources can play a northern regions. creating a conducive
crucial role in addressing Large-scale projects like environment for renew-
the energy crisis and pro- the Diamer-Bhasha Dam able energy projects. Key
moting sustainable devel- and smaller policies include:
opment. run-of-the-river projects
are critical for meeting the • The Alternative and
1. Solar Energy: Paki- energy demands and Renewable Energy Policy
stan receives high solar managing water resourc- 2019: This policy aims to
irradiance, with an aver- es. increase the share of
age of over 5.5 kWh/m²/- renewable energy in the
day. This makes solar 4. Biomass Energy: total energy mix to 30% by
energy a highly viable Agriculture being the 2030.
option, especially in the backbone of Pakistan’s • Incentives for Inves-
vast arid regions of Ba- economy provides ample tors: Various incentives,
lochistan, Sindh, and biomass resources, such including tax holidays,
Punjab. The as crop residues and feed-in tariffs, and
Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park animal waste, which can streamlined regulatory
in Bahawalpur, with a processes, have been
planned capacity of 1,000 introduced to attract both
MW, is a testament to the domestic and foreign
potential of solar power in investment in the renew-
Pakistan. able energy sector.
2. Wind Energy: The Challenges and Opportu-

coastal areas of Sindh and nities
Balochistan, particularly
the Gharo-Keti Bandar While the potential for
Wind Corridor, have signif- renewable energy in Paki-
icant wind energy poten- be converted into energy. stan is immense, several
tial. Estimates suggest that Biomass energy can play challenges need to be ad-
Pakistan has the potential a vital role in rural electrifi- dressed:
to generate over 50,000 cation and reducing the • Infrastructure and
MW from wind energy. burden on the national Grid Integration: Develop-
Several wind farms have grid. ing the necessary infra-
already been established, structure and integrating
contributing to the nation- Policy and Institutional renewable energy into the
al grid and reducing reli- Framework existing grid system
ance on fossil fuels. The government of Paki- remains a challenge.
stan has taken several
3. Hydropower: Hydro- steps to promote renew- • Financial Con-
power has traditionally able energy. The Alterna- straints: High initial capital
been a significant part of tive Energy Development costs and limited access
7
to financing are significant Pakistan can harness its

barriers to the widespread vast renewable energy
adoption of renewable potential to build a sus-
energy technologies. tainable and prosperous
• Technical Expertise: future. By embracing
There is a need for capaci- renewable energy, Paki-
ty building and technical stan can achieve energy
training to develop the security, drive economic
expertise required to development, and con-
design, install, and main- tribute to global efforts to
tain renewable energy combat climate change.
systems.
Despite these challenges,

the opportunities present-
ed by renewable energy
are substantial. Successful
implementation can lead
to:
• Energy Security:
Diversifying the energy mix
reduces dependency on
imported fuels and
enhances energy security.
• Economic Growth:
Investment in renewable
energy can spur economic
growth, create jobs, and
promote technological
innovation.
• Environmental Ben-
efits: Reducing the carbon
footprint and mitigating
climate change are cru-
cial environmental bene-
fits of shifting to renewable
energy.
Conclusion:
The transition to renew-
able energy is not just an
option for Pakistan; it is a
necessity. With the right
policies, investments, and
international cooperation,
8
REACHING FOR THE
COSMOS: SPACE FUTURE
OF PAKISTAN
Fareena Habib
Introduction
In today’s world, where countries in the digital arena are
making preparations to explore space, from reaching
Mars to scooping up lunar soil, Pakistan is not left
behind. With the successful launch of two consecutive
space missions, iCUBE-Qamar and PakSAT-MM1, in May
2024, Pakistan is poised to make significant strides in
technological advancements, innovations, and com-
munications. This achievement will also strengthen its
ties with its close friend, China, paving the way for future
collaborations and mutual benefits.
1. Space Race in the 21st Century
The modern digital world has reignited the space race in

the 21st century. For instance, the United States is pre-
paring for the Artemis mission to the moon and sending
humans to Mars with the help of SpaceX. China has built
its own indigenous Tiangong space station in Earth’s
orbit. Meanwhile, Pakistan has also entered the space
race after joining China's Chang’e 6 mission, which aims
to explore the moon’s dark side. World Economic Forum
9
chronicled that “The space economy is expected to be worth $1.8 trillion by 2035 as
new technologies become increasingly prevalent”. In 2023 alone, countries across
the globe increased their national space budget by $9 billion and this follows a trend
in increased governmental space funding with wider revenue gains.
2. Pakistan has stepped into the Space race to boost technological advancements
The Economic Times chronicled that “China and Pakistan’s lunar missions represent
significant milestones in space exploration”. It will lead to scientific breakthroughs,
fostering technology in this digital era and shaping the future of humanity. Recently,
the following space missions
of Pakistan have been un-
folded:
2.1. Pakistan’s iCube-Qamar
to examine lunar surface
Pakistan’s maiden lunar sat-

ellite, iCube-Qamar,
launched on May 3, 2024,
covered a distance of ap-
proximately 384,400 km and
entered lunar orbit on May 8,
2024, at 1:14 pm. The satellite
is part of China’s Chang’e-6
lunar mission, aiming to
explore the moon’s dark side. The lunar module was designed collaboratively by the
Institute of Space Technology (IST) in Islamabad, China’s Shanghai University, and
Pakistan’s national space agency Suparco. According to the Chinese state news
agency Xinhua, the Chang’e-6 mission is the “first endeavor of its kind in the history
of human lunar exploration”.
2.2. PakSat-MM1 to boost Internet connectivity

Pakistan’s second communication satellite was launched into orbit on May 30, 2024,
from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC), to provide communication ser-
vices. The Geostationary Satellite was designed and developed by Suparco and
China Great Wall Industry Corporation. This advanced communication technology
will help in improving Internet connectivity.
3. Future of Pakistan in Space exploration and development

As these missions progress and unfold, the global space community eagerly awaits
the discoveries and advancements that will emerge from them, furthering the world’s
understanding of the moon and beyond. These space missions hold great promise
for improving Pakistan’s geo-strategic and geoeconomic standings, as follows:
3.1. Scientific advancement and innovation

The space mission has provided multiple opportunities for universities, research
institutes, and commercial entities to collaborate on space missions and gather
valuable data for scientific advancements and innovations. The Head of the Depart-
ment of Electrical and Computer Science and IST’s spokesperson, Dr. Khurram Khur-
10
shid, stated that the mission iCube-Qamar “will provide crucial data on crater loca-
tions, water, and traces of the ice on the moon’s surface”. It will offer opportunities
for universities, research institutes, and commercial entities to participate in space
missions and gather valuable data for scientific advancement and innovation.
First-ever images captured by Pakistan's lunar satellite iCube-Qamar showing the

moon and the sun. — Suparco/CNSA
3.2. Pak-China Strengthening Partnership via Space Cooperation

By collaborating on international space endeavors, countries, like Pakistan and
China, are not only advancing scientific knowledge but also fostering global coop-
eration and understanding. The PakSatMM1, according to Suparco, is “a testament to
the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the Peoples Republic of China”.
Beijing-Islamabad space cooperation will prove to be a positive sum game for both
countries.
3.3. Satellite-based Communication services in Pakistan will enhance business

opportunities
The space mission will fulfill the needs of commercial as well as government users.
Dr Khurshid stated “The satellite will provide communication services like broad-
band internet, TV broadcasting, media and telecommunication. It … will play an
important role in promoting economic activities besides e-commerce and e-gover-
nance,”. It will facilitate interconnectedness among entrepreneurs and industries of
all sizes, thereby contributing to the growth, development, and prosperity of the
country’s economy. According to Suparco, “High Throughput System (HTS) technol-
ogy onboard PakSatMM1 will substantially boost connectivity to the last mile and will
reshape the future of satellite communication in Pakistan. This will be the key to
connect the unconnected with the rest of the country”.
11
3.4. Pakistan Space-Based Augmentation System (Pak-SBAS)

Suparco said in its statement that “PakSat-MM1 will ensure affordable bandwidth
with higher reach within the country. Sectors such as e-commerce, telemedicine,
e-governance, Pak SBAS, and many others will be able to grow”. It said PakSat-MM1
would also have a Pakistan Space Based Augmentation System (Pak-SBAS) pay-
load which would provide integrity-based positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT)
services making Pakistan the 11th country in the world that would launch its own
SBAS besides the USA, Russia, China, Japan, Europe, India, South Korea, Australia,
Nigeria and Algeria. The following are the objectives of the system;
1. To meet Safety-of-Life (SoL) positioning requirements of the transportation
sector ( aviation, marine, land, rail) in a phased manner.
2. To meet positioning requirements of other national sectors such as surveying
and mapping, precision agriculture, urban planning and infrastructure develop-
ment, disaster management, etc.
Conclusion
Space technological advancements and communications via stronger Internet
connectivity can tackle many of Pakistan’s most pressing business and societal
challenges. The strategic partnership between China and Pakistan in space tech-
nology has the potential to be a positive sum game, driving innovation, economic
growth, cellular connectivity, and scientific progress in both countries while fostering
a stronger bilateral relationship.
12
HEAT WAVES, WILDFIRES,
DRYNESS, ETC. IS
PAKISTAN BEING HURT
EVEN MORE BADLY BY
CLIMATE CHANGE?
Sabeen
Introduction serious risks to human

Climate change is one the health, Agricultural land,
most increasing situations and infrastructure of the
around the world, and state. Despite that Paki-
many states of the world stan is contributing much
are becoming victims, less than other countries in
Pakistan is one of these the global greenhouse gas
affected states. Pakistan is emission. Pakistan finds
a country that is blessed itself the front-line victim
with towering mountains, of global climatic impact,
fertile plains, and the most highlighting the urgent
vibrant culture. The coun- need to adopt compre-
try is grappling with the hensive strategies to safe-
monster of environmental guard the future of these
changes/ challenges states.
exerted by climatic Findings

changes, including inten- • Extreme weather
sive heat waves, increas- conditions in Pakistan cre-
ing wildfires, droughts, and ating Problems for the citi-
melting of glaciers. These zens of Pakistan.
issues not only threaten • Pakistan is the state
Pakistan's natural ecosys- most glaciers on the
tem but are also imposing Earthbut they are now
13
melting. The summer of 2023 was Water scarcity is also an-

• Pakistan is suffering particularly severe and other major pressing issue
from heatwaves and Aridi- also in 2024, it's getting by climate change in Paki-
ty which not only human more severe in some parts stan. Indus River which is
health but also the land of the state temperature the lifeline of Pakistan's
and Economy of Pakistan. of the state rising to 51°c Agriculture is getting water
• Due to the hard (123.8°F). These extreme from the glaciers of the
climatic effects states like conditions pose significant Himalayas that are melt-
Pakistan are facing a high health risks, contributing ing at an accelerated
rate of food security con- to increased mortality and pace due to the global rise
cerns. morbidity rates, especially in temperature. According
• These Climatic among populations such to the World Bank gener-
changes can also do as old-age citizens and ated report Pakistan is the
much harm to the econo- children. Increasing tem- state have more glaciers
my of Pakistan which can peratures and dry spells in the world than any other
shrink shortly. have led to bases of wild- state in the world. But they
fires particularly in the are melting at a drastic
Analysis northwestern region of level which can cause high
Pakistan is a state suffer- Pakistan. In the year 2022, sea levels and also cause
ing from a major climatic the country witnessed of floods. According to an-
change at a drastic level. A more than 400 forest fires, other report, Pakistan is
major portion of the popu- which destroyed thou- approaching the threshold
lation relies on agriculture, sands of hectares land of of absolute water scarcity,
making livelihood highly forest and a loss of 1 billion. with per capita water
dependent on predictable These wildfires not only dropping from 5000 cubic
weather conditions. More, devastate the natural meters in 1951 to around
outdated infrastructure habitats but also release 1000 cubic meters in 2023.
and limited resources for large amounts of carbon This reduction severely
disaster management dioxide exacerbating the impacts the agriculture of
have a great impact on problem of air pollution the state which is the
great weather events. and contributing to backbone of Pakistan's
Socioeconomic inequali- climatic damage. The Economy. Water scarcity is
ties further increase these environmental impact of posing a major threat to
problems, with the mar- wildfires extends to the the Pakistani Economy
ginalized disproportional immediate destruction, which is already getting
affected populations. In Long Time Soil degrada- down, especially in the ag-
some past years, the state tion process state, loss of riculture sector which em-
of Pakistan has experi- biodiversity at a danger- ploys about 40% of the
enced an alarming ous level, changes in the people of Pakistan. This
increase in heat waves at ecosystem, and much situation can lead to a
a massive level. According more economically the reduction in the crops
to the Pakistan Metrologi- cost of substantial, pro- affecting the food security
cal Department (PMD), the duction of Timber is in the state. Due to this
average increase in the reduced, agricultural reason being an agricul-
temperature of the land is yields get damaged, and tural economy, we are suf-
0.6°c over the past century also state infrastructure. fering from the huge amo-
14
unt of imports of agricul- er problems not only breaks should be con-

tural and food items im- poses alarming environ- trolled in Public areas and
ports. Old methods water mental challenges but forests. Everyone has to
management practices also loss of land, property understand responsibili-
and irrigation systems fur- and human health. This is ties and work.
ther made this situation creating a serious web of 3. The water manage-
more dangerous. Climatic issues which are connect- ment system should be
Challenges are also created socially economically improved we have to use
ing social and political and politically we all have new and advanced meth-
instability in the state. to get united and come on ods of irrigation that pro-
Rural-to-urban migrations one path for immediate tect water from getting
are accelerating as situations. destroyed. The govern-
people find better stan- ment should invest in the
dards of living and em- Recommendations water reservoirs and pro-
ployment opportunities in 1. Increase in the heat mote rainwater harvesting
cities. These migrations waves The Government to improve water storage.
lead to inadequate hous- and institutions of the 4. Use advanced
ing, poor water supply and state should create com- methods of energy use
sanitation facilities in the mittees to identify the fac- that do not affect the envi-
state. Competition over tors that cause an ronment and avoid pollu-
diminishing water increase in the tempera- tion.
resources is increasing ture. The government 5. The government
regional tensions not only should create Compre- should make policies that
at the state level but also hensive action plans. protect the environment of
within the state with the These plans should the state.
include early warnings 6. We should raise
and give awareness to the awareness about climate
public, by doing public change at all levels.
campaigns in schools, ed-
ucational institutes, and
social media campaigns
and on other social
meet-up platforms, and
also try the establishment
of cooling enters for the
public to provide relief
during the hot events.
neighboring state. 2. The forest manage-
ment system should be
Conclusion improved and also the
The State of Pakistan is in a practices of management
critical situation in its of forest officers in the
battle against climate forest should watched by
change. The increasing higher authorities. The
frequency of heat waves, safety of wildlife should be
wildfires and growing wat- ensured. Incidents like fire
15
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INTERNATIONAL
ROLE OF THE UNITED NATIONS IN THE PALESTINE
CONFLICT
ELECTIONS IN INDIA
SAUDI-IRAN RELATIONS POST-RAISI
7
ROLE OF THE UNITED
NATIONS IN THE
PALESTINE CONFLICT
Adnan Athangul
Overview in mediating between

Israel and the Palestinians,
The Israel-Palestine con- as well as neighboring
flict, one of the most Arab states. The UN Secu-
enduring and complex rity Council has issued nu-
conflicts of the modern merous resolutions aimed
era, has seen the involve- at resolving the conflict,
ment of various interna- including Resolution 242 in
tional actors over the 1967, which called for the
years. Among them, the withdrawal of Israeli forces
United Nations (UN) has from territories occupied
played a prominent role, during the Six-Day War
attempting to mediate, and the recognition of the
facilitate dialogue, provide right of all states in the
humanitarian assistance, region to live in peace
and uphold international within secure and recog-
law. The roots of the Isra-
el-Palestine conflict
stretch back over a centu-
ry, with competing claims
to the land by Jews and
Palestinians. The UN
became involved in the
conflict following the par-
tition of Palestine in 1947
when it adopted General
Assembly Resolution 181,
which recommended the
establishment of separate
Jewish and Arab states.
While the Jewish leader-
ship accepted the plan,
the Arab states rejected it,
leading to the first
Arab-Israeli war in 1948.
Since its inception, the UN nized boundaries.
has been actively involved
18
Additionally, the UN has enable rights of the Pales- criticized the UN’s ap-
deployed peacekeeping tinian people, and Security proach to the conflict as
missions to the region, Council Resolution 2334, one-sided and biased.
such as the United Nations which condemned Israeli After all these efforts the
Truce Supervision Organi- settlements in the occu- situation is getting worse
zation (UNTSO) and the pied territories as a viola- day by day. The United Na-
United Nations Disen- tion of international law, tions has been working in
gagement Observer Force have underscored the the Middle East region
(UNDOF), to monitor international community's around the clock to de-es-
ceasefires, prevent esca- support for a two-state calate the Israeli-Palestin-
lations, and facilitate solution based on the ian crisis by engaging key
negotiations between the pre-1967 borders. actors and providing
parties. While these mis- There have been instanc- emergency assistance to
sions have had varying es of contentious resolu- civilians on the ground.
degrees of success, they tions and disagreements However, they are unable
have often faced chal- in the UN, such as the U.S. to get the desired results
lenges due to the volatile veto of a 2011 resolution for long-lasting peace in
nature of the conflict and condemning Jewish set- the region.
the lack of political will tlements and the 2012 Assessing the Effective-
from the parties involved. report on Israeli settle- ness of the UN: Is It Failing
One of the central roles of ments leading to potential the Global Community?
the UN in the Israel-Pales- International Criminal • Enforcement Chal-
tine conflict has been ad- Court action. After Pales- lenges: A recurring criti-
vocating for the rights of tine’s admission as a cism of the UN is its limited
the Palestinian people. The non-member state in 2012, ability to enforce man-
General Assembly and the conflict may come dates, as its effectiveness
various UN agencies, under the jurisdiction of depends on member
including the United Na- the International Court. states’ cooperation, and
tions Relief and Works Israel has also expressed resolutions are often con-
Agency for Palestine Refu- reluctance to cooperate sidered recommenda-
gees in the Near East with UN investigations and tions.
(UNRWA), have provided
humanitarian assistance
to Palestinian refugees
and supported efforts to
address their plight.
Moreover, the UN has
repeatedly affirmed the
right of the Palestinian
people to self-determina-
tion and the establish-
ment of an independent
and sovereign state. Reso-
lutions such as General
Assembly Resolution 3236,
which reaffirmed the inali-
19
• Security Council unimplemented. flict, contributing to a hu-

Inaction: The Security • Cambodia Violence: manitarian crisis.
Council’s veto power, held The UN’s recognition of the • South Sudan Con-
by P-5 nations, impedes Khmer Rouge regime, de- flict: UN peacekeeping
action on various interna- spite human rights con- efforts in South Sudan
tional conflicts, leading to cerns, raised questions have not prevented a hu-
frequent inaction and about its effectiveness. manitarian crisis and dis-
deadlock. • Somali Civil War: placement of millions.
• Western Domi- The UN peacekeeping • Yemen Civil War:
nance: Despite emphasiz- mission in Somalia failed The UN has struggled to
ing inclusivity, the UN is due to the lack of govern- deliver humanitarian aid
perceived as Western-ori- ment cooperation and in Yemen amid a Sau-
ented, with European and attacks against UN offi- di-led coalition’s interven-
American interests often cers, resulting in civilian tion.
prevailing in deci- deaths. • Rohingya Crisis: The
sion-making processes. • Rwandan Civil War: UN’s response to the
• Financial Con- The UN’s response to the Rohingya crisis faced
straints: The UN faces Rwandan genocide faced challenges, including Chi-
financial constraints, with criticism as UN troops na’s support for Myanmar
member states falling were unable to prevent the and a lack of Security
behind in their contribu- brutal violence. Council action.
tions, impacting the orga- • Srebrenica Massa-
nization’s ability to carry cre: The Srebrenica mas- The UN’s Gradual Decline:
out critical operations. sacre highlighted the UN’s The end of the Cold War
• US and Trump Era: inability to protect civilians led to the demise of the
The Trump administra- in a declared safe zone Soviet Union and chaos in
tion’s isolationist ap- during the Bosnian con- the 1990s. During this
proach and withdrawal flict. period, the U.S. and its
from key UN bodies and • Iraq Invasion: UN allies could act within or
agreements strained the Resolution 1483 attempted outside the UN as they
UN’s reliability and credi- to legitimize the Iraq inva- pleased. The UNSC, with
bility. sion, which was based on veto powers intact, does
• Israeli Occupation: false claims about Weap- not offer hope for ad-
The Israeli-Palestinian ons of Mass Destruction. dressing conflicts where
conflict remains unre- • Syrian Civil War: the permanent five’s na-
solved, with issues of Russia’s use of veto power tional interests conflict.
occupation, settlements, in the Security Council hin- Post-Cold War, the UN’s
and the use of veto power dered UN resolutions ad- ability to resolve conflicts
in the Security Council dressing the Syrian con has steadily declined. The
contributing to the ongo- Israel crisis is an example
ing dispute. of the UN’s ineffectiveness
• Kashmir Dispute: in recent decades. Major
The Kashmir conflict con- powers’ severe differences
tinues with human rights have rendered the UN
abuses, and UN resolu- incapable of taking mean-
tions on the issue remain ingful action. The UN Secu-
20
Security Council was Global Role: Strengthen

unable to pass a resolu- the UN’s capacity to addr-
tion for resolving the ess global issues, with a
Ukraine crisis due to a Rus- focus on sustainable de-
sian Veto. Despite more velopment and human
than a year of conflict be- rights.
tween Russia and Ukraine, • Embrace Regional
the UN has been ineffec- Players: Recognize the
tive in halting the hostilities significance of regional
or facilitating a ceasefire. organizations in global
Recently, 128 countries peace and security efforts.
supported a UN resolution • Addressing Israe-
for a ‘humanitarian pause’ li-Palestinian Conflict:
in Gaza, but major powers Strive for a more equitable
couldn’t agree on a and effective approach to
ceasefire. resolving the Israeli-Pales-
tinian conflict.
Strategies for a More Rel- • Innovative and Col-
evant and Effective lective Actions: Encourage
Future: innovative and collective
• Security Council approaches to tackle
Reform: Improve the inclu- global challenges while
sivity, representation, upholding the UN Charter’s
transparency, and effec- values of peace, security,
tiveness of the Security human rights, and equali-
Council. ty.
• Coordinated UN
Response: Create a uni- Conclusion:
fied platform for UN agen- The United Nations faces a
cies and organizations to critical juncture. To ensure
coordinate their respons- its continued relevance
es. and effectiveness, it must
• P r e v e n t i n g embark on a path of
U.S.-China Tensions: reform and adaptation.
Encourage cooperation Prioritizing global chal-
between the U.S. and lenges, fostering coopera-
China within the UN tion among major powers,
framework to prevent a and enhancing inclusivity
divisive rivalry. are key steps toward a
• Rebuilding UN Legit- more resilient and respon-
imacy: Focus on enhanc- sive UN. The organization’s
ing representation and ability to address emerg-
effectiveness, particularly ing threats and seize op-
from the East and South in portunities will be crucial
UN bodies. in shaping a better future
• Revitalize UN’s for the world.
21
ELECTIONS IN INDIA
Imaima Mazhar
Modi! Modi! Modi! Is he even going to be harsh on Paki-

stan?
Following a six-week-long democratic exercise, Naren-

dra Modi has been elected as Prime Minister for the third
time, a distinction previously held only by Jawaharlal
Nehru. In sharp contrast to the previous term, the gov-
erning party BJP, led by Modi, failed to secure the seats
required to establish a government without forming a
coalition. This momentous loss in majority by the party
of a 10-year-long rule reflects the change in the political
dynamics of the so-called largest democracy in Asia.
This article intends to analyze the prospect of normal-
ized relations between India and Pakistan, considering
the possibility of Modi as a leader of coalition, relin-
quishing his hostile attitude towards Pakistan in favor of
being more open toward dialogue for conflict resolution
and regional cooperation.
Over the past decade in office, Narendra Modi has cata-
lyzed a paradigm shift in the country's ideological out-
look, reshaping its core principles and beliefs. Departure
from secular ideals has created ripples across the do-
mestic and foreign policy formulation as well as the
treatment of religious minorities in the country.
22
Majorly in the post-2019 era, the BJP government has sanctioned many policies in line
with its Hindu Nationalist vision including the revocation of the special status of Azad
Jammu and Kashmir and the passage of the Citizen Amendment Act. This and many
other bellicose measures against the Muslims in India and its neighbor, Pakistan, are
a testament to the truculent Hindutva ideology of the Modi-led BJP.
Considering their previous record, it was not surprising to observe the vicious an-
ti-Muslim rhetoric propagated by BJP leaders during the electoral campaign. More-
over, Modi and his party cadre did not show any restraint in employing a tirade
against Pakistan to stir the nationalistic sentiments of voters. Many observers view
this conduct as a tool to ramp up the electoral campaign while sidetracking the
public from a burgeoning economic crisis in the country. Such an approach has
proven effective in the past but with time proved to be more than just a hollow talk to
gain favor among voters. After coming into power, the Modi government took strin-
gent actions which indicated an aggressive approach toward national security and
foreign policy.
After a brief rapprochement during his first term, the mutual relations between the
two states have been on a downward spiral, particularly after the Uri and Pulwama
attacks and the resultant terrorism-related allegations targeted at Pakistan by its
eastern neighbor. Additionally, the tampering with the special status of occupied
Jammu and Kashmir, despite multiple international legislations to the contrary,
proved to be the final nail in the coffin for the normalization of relations between the
two countries. This triggered the diplomatic standoff, prompting Pakistan to recall its
high commissioner from India and vow to break off any economic and trade relations
with India.
23
With an eye to the future, there are varied speculations concerning the future of Paki-
stan and India's relations during the third consecutive term of Modi. This time, the po-
litical landscape has shifted, as the BJP has been unable to secure a majority on its
own and has had to rely on the two regional allies, the Telugu Desam Party in south-
ern Andhra Pradesh state and Janata Dal (United) in eastern Bihar state, to establish
control at the center. This political scenario introduces a new dynamic, and leading a
coalition government will not be smooth sailing, particularly for the domineering and
flamboyant Modi, who is accustomed to prevailing over the decision-making pro-
cess.
While being dependent on allies calls for a more consultative and deliberative ap-
proach, many argue that coalition partners often have little interest in external rela-
tions as they are more interested in strengthening their political base within a do-
mestic setting. To elaborate, historical patterns show that coalition partners prefer
domestic matters over foreign affairs. Regional parties within the NDA, such as the
TDP and the Janata Dal (United), are typically concerned with state-level governance
and local issues. This grants Modi and the BJP's core leadership significant leeway for
directing foreign policy, particularly in challenging relationships like the one with
Pakistan.
Moreover, the political narrative of the BJP has always stressed taking a firm stand for
national security, which is highly appealing to its support base. Given the party's de-
pendence on nationalist rhetoric to rally support, its ideological commitment to a
hardline posture is unlikely to change. Added to that, preceding incidents like the Bal-
akot airstrike in 2019 and the surgical strikes in 2016 have strengthened Modi's reputa-
tion as a leader who acts emphatically against perceived threats from Pakistan. From
a political standpoint, these moves have helped Modi's reputation at home and have
justified his assertive approach. Given this, it is reasonable to presume that Modi's
third term in office will entail the continuation of his confrontational policies against a
Western neighbor
However, given India's economic crisis—which includes high inflation and a lack of job
opportunities—the coalition government may advocate for establishing trade con-
nections with Pakistan to maximize the potential for trade between the two countries.
The economic issues confronting India may drive the coalition government to seek
pragmatic solutions that will stimulate growth and generate employment opportuni-
ties. Normalization of trade with Pakistan may have a positive impact on the econo-
my by opening up new markets, lowering transportation costs, and stimulating
border economies. According to the World Bank Report 2018, removing economic
restrictions and normalizing relations between India and Pakistan might result in
bilateral trade worth up to $37 billion per year.
Similarly, the stakeholders in Islamabad might welcome a friendly gesture from India
given the changed attitude of the coalition government. The domestic crisis within
Pakistan could be alleviated if external threats are reduced, allowing resources to be
focused on improving the condition of the populace. Enhanced trade relations could
lead to economic growth, job creation, and regional stability. Hence, both states
could benefit from normalization and success in building confidence across the
border, fostering a more peaceful and prosperous South Asia.
24
SAUDI-IRAN RELATIONS
POST-RAISI
Farooq A. Solangi
President Ebrahim Raisi’s Saudi-Iran relations have

plan crash of 19th May sent been under great duress
a shockwave throughout over the past four de-
the region and beyond. cades. In 2016, both coun-
Many nations expressed tries called off their diplo-
condolences over the late matic relations. That was
president as the news of until 2023 when the Chi-

his demise on the 20th nese brokered thaw took
began to pervade all place. Death of President
around the world. Saudi Raisi cannot be without
Arabia, also, issued a implications pertaining to
statement, showing great Saudi Arabia, however, as
concern over the plane the relations have been
crash, and offered help to evolving, it appears, the
Iranian authorities. The implications cannot be
next day, the highest Saudi very deep. Firstly, the pres-
royals, King Salman and ident of Iran, despite being
Muhammad Bin Salman an influential figure,
sent condolences to the doesn’t control the wheels
acting president. of Iran’s foreign policy in its
25
entirety. The power to for- cil is also laid down in the Though the president of
mulate foreign policy rests same article as follows: Iran presides over the
on the shoulders of the The Supreme Command meetings of SNSC, he,
Supreme National Security Council of the Armed however, cannot make
Council (SNSC). Finally, the Forces chief, the officer in unilateral decisions. The
supreme leader holds the charge of planning and decision has to be
power to veto any decision budget affairs, two repre- reached with a majority
of the SNSC. sentatives nominated by vote.
the Leader, the heads of The Council has been de-
Supreme National Securi- the three branches of gov- signed in such a way that
ty Council ernment, the ministers of all the policies made to
Article 176 of the Iranian foreign affairs, interior, and counter Iran’s internal and
Constitution information, a minister external threats are con-
The function of the
Supreme National Security
Council (SNSC) is to devise
strategies and manner of
execution with regard to
matters of national securi-
ty, ensuring policies align
with national security and
defense from internal and
external threats.
As per the constitution,
there are three functions
of the Council. They are:
Determining the defense
and national security poli-
cies of the country within with relevant experience, sensual.
the framework of general and the highest ranking Finally, It goes to the
policies determined by the officials from the Armed supreme leader. If the
Leader. Forces and the Islamic supreme leader approves
Coordination of political Revolution's Guards Corps of it, it becomes a part of
activities, intelligence, will make up the Council. the state’s policy. If the
social, cultural, and eco- Looking at the constitution supreme leader disap-
nomic fields relating to of the SNSC one can approves of it, it is vetoed.
general policies of defense praise that the President of
and national security. Iran did not wield much Potential Display of Sau-
The exploitation of materi- authority over the making di-Iran Relations Follow-
al and intellectual of national security policy. ing the death of Ebrahim
resources of the country Article 176 of the constitu- Raisi
for facing internal and tion explicitly laid down the Foreign policy, particularly
external threats. premises of SNSC con- when it’s related to Iran’s
ductwhich is to counter archrival Saudi Arabia,be-
The composition of the the internal and external comes a National Security
Supreme National Coun- threats. issue. Sewered in 2016, Iran
26
and Saudi relations began been at loggerheads with developing, it seems un-
to shape positively follow- each other. Iran’s Islamic likely that these ramifica-
ing the thaw of March interpretation and Saudi tions will be very great. The
2023, while Ebrahim Raisi Arabia’s understanding of president of Iran does not
was the president. Rela- Islam are starkly contrast- have complete authority
tions between the two ing. This has been the core over the country's foreign
countries, as they appear issue of the conflict. policy, despite being a
at first glance, would . powerful figure. The
remain the same as per 2. Potential Leadership of Supreme National Security
the previous year’s accord. the Islamic World: The Council is responsible for
It can further be gauged Islamic world sees Saudi developing foreign policy
from the fact that Saudi Arabia as the leader of the (SNSC). However, areas
Arabia offered immediate Islamic world. Iran, due to such as Yemen and Syria
help to the Iranian authori- a different outlook on the paint grim pictures where
ties and after the news of Islamic creed and having both these countries try to
the president’s passing geopolitical ambitions, impose their way of gover-
away, expressed deepest aspires to replace Saudi nance and influence.
condolences. In interna- from this unofficial mantle.
tional politics, these ac-
tions can easily be inter- 3. Proxy wars: Word-torn
preted as a country’s ways Yemen and Syria are two
to maintain good relations regions where both Iran
with the other. and Saudi indirectly wres-
Viewing the situation from tle. In Yemen, the Houthi
the Iranian perspective, It group is supported by Iran
has to keep a good under- to fight against the Sau-
standing with Saudi di-backed government.
Arabia. Iran’s international Whereas, in Syria, the Asad
isolation due to US sanc- regime has Iranian sup-
tions and deteriorating port against the groups
peace in the Middle East funded by Saudi.
after Israel attacked Gaza,
in which Iran has a pivotal Conclusion
role, calls for Iran to have Over the past forty years,
as many friends as possi- Saudi-Iranian relations
ble, or at least, not to make have been severely
more enemies. strained. Both nations sev-
Prevalent Challenges ered their diplomatic ties
Despite recent cordial de- in 2016. That is until the
velopments two countries Chinese-brokered thaw
still have deep differences. occurred in 2023. The
Some of them can be passing of President Raisi
heighted as below. will undoubtedly have an
1. Shina-Sunni Rift: Since impact on Saudi Ara-
the Iranian revolution of bia;yet, given the way the
1979, both countries have two countries have been
27
3
MONTHLY PRESS
REVIEW
29
The pro-choice move- Yet gloomy as this reversal Americans than any such
ment that could help Joe seems, it has also given uprising since Black Lives
Biden win rise to America’s most Matter in 2020 or the Tea
Published in The Econo- dynamic new political Party more than a decade
mist movement: a revolt of mil- ago. However, it is better
About ten thousand lions of Americans who organised and has clearer
women eligible to vote in think government has little goals. Its foot soldiers
this November’s elections business inserting itself carry clipboards. Tens of
were born before women into private decisions. For thousands of volunteers
won the right to vote. In the many women that move- have gathered millions of
century since then, Ameri- ment will restore or fortify signatures to put abortion
can women have steadily the freedom to choose. It rules to state referendums.
accumulated rights. In the could also, perhaps, sway The movement has
1960s the contraceptive the presidential election. already had success in
pill let women choose how Dobbs, the Supreme Court some surprising places,
many children they had. In decision that overturned such as Ohio and Kansas.
the 1970s no-fault divorce Roe, has been an own goal As many as 16 states could
laws and Roe v Wade gave for the anti-abortion hold abortion referen-
women more choices that movement. Surprisingly, dums on the same day
had been denied to their the number of abortions Americans will pick their
mothers. This progress has risen slightly since it next president.
seemed irreversible, and was announced. Though Only 24 of the 50 states
was often taken for grant- some states promptly allow citizen-led ballot
ed. Then, two years ago, banned the procedure, initiatives, so the patch-
the Supreme Court over- others made it easier to work of state campaigns is
turned Roe, throwing the obtain. Also, the federal a poor substitute for a fed-
question of allowing or drug regulator has eral law. But by the end of
disallowing abortion back allowed abortifacient pills 2024, if all the initiatives
to the states. It turns out to be prescribed by mail, make it onto a ballot, most
that rights can be taken giving millions of women American women of
away, too. (including some in an- reproductive age will have
A third of American ti-abortion states) easier had a chance to vote on
women aged 15-49 now access to early-term abortion since Dobbs. Flor-
live in states where abor- abortions than they had ida is crucial. It is the
tion is either illegal or im- before. However, for mil- third-most populous state
possibly restricted. Some lions of other women, get- and, until a strict ban
states have passed stat- ting a legal termination came into force in May, it
utes so severe and vague- has become much harder. was a place to which
ly drafted that doctors fear The result of the court’s many women came from
they may be forced to decision, then, has been to other states to seek termi-
choose between risking a assign people more or less nations, since the proce-
patient’s life—in the case choice depending on dure is illegal and sure to
of a dangerous miscar- where they live. remain so in much of the
riage or complicated Outrage has given rise to a South.
pregnancy—and risking grassroots political move- If the pro-choice move-
breaking the law. ment. It involves more ment’s only effect was on
30
American women’s health, vote for legal abor- This dynamic also explains
it would be worth taking tion—and for Mr Trump. why it took until two years
seriously. If it also helps Polls say that Mr Biden is ago to pass a federal
President Joe Biden win losing in the swing states. gay-marriage law, a
re-election, it will have That suggests voters can decade after Britain and
global consequences. separate their views on France had done so, and
Could the backlash abortion from their party also why states are going
against Dobbs keep the preference. If overall turn- their own way on marijua-
man whose judicial ap- out is high, abortion will na legalisation while Con-
pointments made it possi- matter less, because the gress dithers.
ble, Donald Trump, out of enthusiasm of pro-choice Sign here
the White House? voters will be drowned out. Thus, this new movement
Maybe. Few voters are If turnout is low they will shows a different side of
enthusiastic about Mr count for more, benefiting American politics. It is not
Biden. A mass movement Mr Biden. made up of keyboard war-
in support of a goal his For most of the world, the riors vying for attention
party shares ought to election is what matters: online, but of people giving
boost the turnout of Dem- billions are bracing for an- up their weekends and
ocrats. Abortion referen- other four years of Trumpi- evenings to try to per-
dums in Arizona and an fireworks. But for Ameri- suade their neighbours of
Nevada, two swing states, cans, it should be hearten- an idea they hold deeply. It
could spur marginal cen- ing that the pro-choice is participatory and local,
trist and left-leaning movement is tackling a the kind of thing that de
voters to make their way to central failure of American Tocqueville raved about
a polling station. Many politics. On many issues, after visiting the country
Americans believe the especially those related to back in 1831. It is how de-
economy is weaker than it the culture wars, American mocracy in America is
is and also blame the attitudes are little different supposed to work.
president for high prices, from those in other rich
so giving them an alterna- democracies, but federal Pakistan and the Global
tive reason to show up to lawmakers do a lousy job North’s Climate-linked
vote is helpful. In a tight of reflecting them. Most Trade Policy
race, even a modest boost Americans want abortion Published in The Diplomat
could be decisive, and to be legal early in a preg- Climate change has
abortion seems likely to nancy but illegal later on. become a harsh reality for
help the Biden campaign Yet extremist minorities in the world, with developing
more than it harms it. Congress block compro- economies at the epicen-
Yet the odds are still that it mise of this sort. So even if ter of its ruins. Historically,
won’t be enough. If Democrats were to win the developed countries in
pro-choice referendums presidency and both Europe and North America
pass, it will often be be- chambers of Congress in have contributed more to
cause pro-choice Repub- November (which is un- global temperature rise
licans, a group whose likely), they would still be than less developed coun-
opinions get squashed in unable to pass a national tries, yet it is the latter
their own party, showed up abortion law that aligns countries that are paying
to back them. Most will with public opinion. the heaviest price. A clas-
31
sic example was the 2022 te concern is the competi- origin. This raises ques-
climate-induced flash tiveness of its businesses tions about the ability of
floods Pakistan witnessed. on the international stage. Pakistani companies to
Adding fuel to this climate Without substantial measure, report, and verify
fire is the new wave of investment in sustainable emissions, and how car-
trade protectionism that and renewable energy, the bon-intensive their prod-
seems to be emerging, cost of products from ucts are compared to
with the European Union Pakistan’s export indus- competitors. Carbon pric-
and the United States at tries, especially those rely- ing could play a pivotal
the forefront of many of ing on coal-based power, role in Pakistan’s domestic
these energy conflicts. As will rise significantly over policies to mitigate these
Pakistan grapples with the next decade. This is challenges.
climate-induced disas- particularly critical as the Moreover, global consum-
ters, rising trade tensions EU, the largest bloc desti- er trends are shifting
are adversely impacting nation and second most toward sustainability, with
its efforts. However, these important trading partner a focus on reusing and
challenges posed by for Pakistan’s exports, is recycling textiles. EU
EU-U.S. climate-linked progressively using eco-design requirements
trade policies can also renewable energy as a are pushing for a reduc-
serve as crucial impera- trade barrier. tion in the environmental
tives for Pakistan to find an Initially targeting six sec- footprint of manufacturing
opportunity to move tors – cement, aluminum, processes, mandating
toward building climate hydrogen, iron and steel, exporters to establish sort-
resilience. fertilizer, and electricity – ing and recycling hubs,
The EU has begun phasing the CBAM will extend to all and to minimize the de-
in the Carbon Border Ad- industries, including tex- struction of unsold or
justment Mechanism tiles, which form the larg- returned textiles. Pakistani
(CBAM), which is a part of est portion of Pakistan’s exporters will need to dis-
the broader European exports. As the CBAM tran- close publicly the amount
Green Deal and the fit for sitions toward full imple- of product destruction and
55 plan. The CBAM aims to mentation, it is crucial for align their production with
prevent “carbon leakage” Pakistani exporters to un- dynamic consumer de-
by requiring companies derstand the timeline and mands.
importing goods into the potential obligations. Ac- While this market diversifi-
EU to report their emis- cording to the World cation could mitigate
sions. This mechanism, set Bank’s CBAM Exposure some losses, it risks leav-
to be fully implemented by Index, Pakistan’s exposure ing Pakistan behind in the
2026, applies to all coun- is moderate but notable, global trend toward sus-
tries, including the least especially compared to tainability, potentially hin-
developed ones, unlike the major exporters like India dering its green growth.
EU’s Everything but Arms and China. The stringent compliance
(EBA) scheme, which The carbon price payable costs for EU-based pro-
offered tariff and quo- to the EU will depend on ducers may also affect
ta-free access to imports the carbon content of them, creating a complex
from these nations. goods and the carbon dynamic that could pose
For Pakistan, the immedia- price in the country of significant risks for sustai-
32
nable economic develop- and tax credits are aimed can actually serve as a
ment in Pakistan; a perfect at U.S. domestic industries, catalyst for Pakistan to
recipe for the dependency leading to overproduction strengthen its climate
theory. of green technology in resilience. By leveraging
In order to stay competi- Europe and the United the pressures and incen-
tive and resilient, Pakistan States. This overproduc- tives presented by the
must balance its export tion in Global North could CBAM and IRA, Pakistan
strategies with robust lower green technology has a unique opportunity
investments in renewable prices, undermining the to revamp its climate poli-
energy and sustainable competitiveness of manu- cies, invest in sustainable
practices, but this is only facturing in Pakistan and practices, and align more
possible when the entire other developing nations. closely with global envi-
geopolitical situation is Additionally, the IRA could ronmental standards. This
understood. disrupt Pakistan’s export approach not only
The United States’ Inflation markets. As the U.S. and enhances Pakistan’s
Reduction Act (IRA), Europe ramp up their pro- export competitiveness
passed in 2022, has duction of green technolo- but also contributes to a
become a focal point in a gies, Pakistan may find it more sustainable and
transatlantic rift over elec- challenging to compete resilient economic future.
tric vehicles (EVs) and with the influx of cheaper, To navigate these chal-
green technology. This subsidized products. This lenges and seize the op-
policy, designed to boost situation is particularly portunities presented,
green technology and concerning for Pakistan’s Pakistan’s policymakers
climate investments manufacturing sector, must swiftly enact and
through tax credits and which may struggle to enforce targeted reforms
subsidies, aims for a 60 keep pace with the tech- to incentivize sustainable
percent carbon-free nological advancements practices and gain global
power sector by 2032. and cost reductions driven recognition and competi-
However, its emphasis on by IRA-supported initia- tiveness.
enhancing U.S. energy tives in the Global North. First, it is imperative to im-
security and domestic The EU’s unwavering com- plement fiscal and capac-
manufacturing has mitment to its green ity building measures. To
sparked international criti- agenda means limited encourage investments in
cism, particularly from concessions to interna- eco-friendly technologies
South Korea, Japan, and tional partners, which and processes, Pakistan
India, who are considering could increase trade dis- must implement fiscal
retaliatory protectionist putes and accusations of measures such as tax
measures. protectionism. This may incentives and subsidies.
For Pakistan, the IRA can drive Pakistan to seek These financial incentives
present significant chal- alternative markets with can significantly lower the
lenges to its energy transi- less stringent environ- barriers to adopting sus-
tion and participation in mental regulations, such tainable practices. Com-
the global green economy. as China, India, and the plementing this, capaci-
Like the CBAM, which sup- Middle East. ty-building initiatives are
ports EU’s domestic indus- However, these seemingly crucial. Training programs
tries, the IRA’s subsidies adverse circumstances focused on energy efficie-
33
ncy, waste management, And most importantly, will determine its ability to
and environmental stew- proactive engagement thrive in a rapidly chang-
ardship can empower and diplomatic efforts are ing global landscape. By
industry stakeholders, essential to negotiate embracing sustainability
equipping them with the favorable terms and and innovation, Pakistan
necessary knowledge and exemptions under CBAM can not only safeguard its
skills to implement and regulations. The EU and economic interests but
maintain sustainable U.S. play a pivotal role in also contribute meaning-
practices. supporting Pakistan’s fully to global climate
Next, leveraging pub- transition by extending resilience efforts.
lic-private partnerships is financial and technical
essential for marketing support, helping Pakistan The exponential growth of
sustainable Pakistani adopt greener technolo- solar power will change
products and processes gies and practices without the world
on an international scale. compromising economic Published in The Econo-
These collaborations can development. Moreover, mist
help enhance the global advocating for reforms It is 70 years since at&t’s
competitiveness of Paki- within international trade Bell Labs unveiled a new
stani industries. Strength- institutions, such as the technology for turning
ening negotiations for World Trade Organization sunlight into power. The
responsible contracting (WTO), to better integrate phone company hoped it
clauses between brands environmental sustain- could replace the batter-
and manufacturers can ability into trade rules is ies that run equipment in
also promote more sus- crucial. out-of-the-way places. It
tainable practices. By promoting policies that also realised that power-
Additionally, developing prioritize environmental ing devices with light
robust domestic waste protection and economic alone showed how sci-
management systems equity, and fostering part- ence could make the
and enhancing data nerships that enhance future seem wonderful;
gathering, reporting, and supply chain resilience hence a press event at
monitoring on key sustain- and sustainability, the which sunshine kept a toy
ability indicators, such as negative impacts of these Ferris wheel spinning
water, chemical con- climate policies on devel- round and round.
sumption, and carbon oping nations can be miti- Today solar power is long
emissions, are vital steps gated. Strengthening reg- past the toy phase. Panels
toward sustainability. Im- ulatory compliance and now occupy an area
proving compliance with enforcement mechanisms around half that of Wales,
the EU Corporate Sustain- is also imperative to and this year they will pro-
ability Due Diligence ensure adherence to envi- vide the world with about
Directive will further bol- ronmental standards, 6% of its electricity—which
ster Pakistan’s export po- safeguarding Pakistan’s is almost three times as
tential, ensuring the coun- export markets and pro- much electrical energy as
try can effectively navi- moting long-term sus- America consumed back
gate the complexities of tainable growth.Ultimate- in 1954. Yet this historic
new trade-linked climate ly, Pakistan’s response to growth is only the sec-
policies. these external pressures ond-most-remarkable
34
thing about the rise of the world—including electricity cheaper, people

solar power. The most Africa, where 600m people will find uses for it. The
remarkable is that it is no- still cannot light their result is that, in contrast to
where near over. homes—will begin to feel earlier energy sources,
To call solar power’s rise energy-rich. That feeling solar power has routinely
exponential is not hyper- will be a new and transfor- become cheaper and will
bole, but a statement of mational one for human- continue to do so.
fact. Installed solar ca- kind. Other constraints do exist.
pacity doubles roughly To grasp that this is not Given people’s proclivity
every three years, and so some environmentalist for living outside daylight
grows ten-fold each fever dream, consider hours, solar power needs
decade. Such sustained solar economics. As the to be complemented with
growth is seldom seen in cumulative production of storage and supplement-
anything that matters. a manufactured good ed by other technologies.
That makes it hard for increases, costs go down. Heavy industry and avia-
people to get their heads As costs go down, tion and freight have been
round what is going on. demand goes up. As hard to electrify. Fortu-
When it was a tenth of its demand goes up, produc- nately, these problems
current size ten years ago, tion increases—and costs may be solved as batter-
solar power was still seen go down further. This ies and fuels created by
as marginal even by cannot go on for ever; pro- electrolysis gradually
experts who knew how fast duction, demand or both become cheaper.
it had grown. The next always become con- Another worry is that the
ten-fold increase will be strained. In earlier energy vast majority of the world’s
equivalent to multiplying transitions—from wood to solar panels, and almost
the world’s entire fleet of coal, coal to oil or oil to all the purified silicon from
nuclear reactors by eight gas—the efficiency of which they are made,
in less than the time it typi- extraction grew, but it was come from China. Its solar
cally takes to build just a eventually offset by the industry is highly competi-
single one of them. cost of finding ever more tive, heavily subsidised
Solar cells will in all likeli- fuel. and is outstripping current
hood be the single biggest As our essay this week demand—quite an
source of electrical power explains, solar power faces achievement given all the
on the planet by the mid no such constraint. The solar capacity China is
2030s. By the 2040s they resources needed to pro- installing within its own
may be the largest source duce solar cells and plant borders. This means that
not just of electricity but of them on solar farms are Chinese capacity is big
all energy. On current silicon-rich sand, sunny enough to keep the
trends, the all-in cost of places and human inge- expansion going for years
the electricity they pro- nuity, all three of which are to come, even if some of
duce promises to be less abundant. Making cells the companies involved
than half as expensive as also takes energy, but go to the wall and some
the cheapest available solar power is fast making investment dries up.
today. This will not stop that abundant, too. As for In the long run, a world in
climate change, but could demand, it is both huge which more energy is gen-
slow it a lot faster. Much of and elastic—if you make erated without the oil and
35
gas that come from un- with a boost to productivi- means for the world
stable or unfriendly parts ty. Anything that people Published in Arab News
of the world will be more use energy for today will In a profoundly unsettling
dependable. Still, although cost less—and that development that has
the Chinese Communist includes pretty much alarmed the international
Party cannot rig the price everything. Then come the community, Russian Presi-
of sunlight as opec tries to things cheap energy will dent Vladimir Putin and
rig that of oil, the fact that make possible. People North Korean leader Kim
a vital industry resides in a who could never afford to Jong Un have forged a for-
single hostile country is will start lighting their midable alliance. This
worrying. houses or driving a car. partnership was solidified
It is a concern that Ameri- Cheap energy can purify last week in Pyongyang,
ca feels keenly, which is water, and even desali- where the two leaders
why it has put tariffs on nate it. It can drive the signed a comprehensive
Chinese solar equipment. hungry machinery of arti- agreement that signifi-
However, because almost ficial intelligence. It can cantly escalated their col-
all the demand for solar make billions of homes laborative efforts against
panels still lies in the and offices more bearable Western powers.
future, the rest of the world in summers that will, for As reported by Russian
will have plenty of scope to decades to come, be get- state media, the agree-
get into the market. Amer- ting hotter. ment includes a pledge of
ica’s adoption of solar But it is the things that “mutual assistance” in the
energy could be frustrated nobody has yet thought of event of aggression
by a pro-fossil-fuel Trump that will be most conse- against either nation. In his
presidency, but only tem- quential. In its radical opening statement, Putin
porarily and painfully. It abundance, cheaper expressed profound grati-
could equally be energy will free the imagi- tude to Kim for North
enhanced if America nation, setting tiny Ferris Korea’s unwavering sup-
released pent up demand, wheels of the mind spin- port of Russia’s war in
by making it easier to ning with excitement and Ukraine. Putin’s very pres-
install panels on homes new possibilities. ence in Pyongyang, with
and to join the grid—the This week marks the his visit culminating in a
country has a terawatt of summer solstice in the marathon 11-hour dia-
new solar capacity waiting northern hemisphere. The logue, underscored the
to be connected. Carbon Sun rising to its highest seriousness with which the
prices would help, just as point in the sky will in de- two leaders regard this
they did in the switch from cades to come shine down burgeoning alliance.
coal to gas in the Europe- on a world where nobody Kim personally escorted
an Union. needs go without the Putin to his aircraft at
The aim should be for the blessings of electricity and Pyongyang airport, a ges-
virtuous circle of where the access to ture laden with symbolism
solar-power production to energy invigorates all and indicative of the new-
turn as fast as possible. those it touches. found solidarity between
That is because it offers them. Putin lauded the
the prize of cheaper What growing Rus- agreement as a monu-
energy. The benefits start sia-North Korea bond mental breakthrough, one
36
that signals an unprece- and the ongoing conflict in exacerbate the threat
dented level of coopera- Ukraine. posed by both nations and
tion. The potential for mili- Meanwhile, the North destabilize the delicate
tary-technical collabora- Korean regime’s nuclear balance of power in North-
tion with North Korea was ambitions and ballistic east Asia. Moreover, their
not explicitly ruled out, missile tests have further alliance serves as a stark
adding a sinister dimen- isolated the country on the reminder of their resilience
sion to the partnership. international stage. Under in the face of international
Both leaders framed this Kim’s leadership, North pressure and sanctions.
strengthened relationship Korea has conducted nu- Their ability to withstand
as a move toward peace merous missile launches, economic and political
on the Korean Peninsula, including intercontinental isolation and still forge
claiming that the pact was ballistic missiles capable powerful alliances indi-
purely defensive and of reaching the US. It has cates a troubling shift in
aimed at preserving their continued to develop its global dynamics.
nations’ sovereignty. “Re- nuclear weapons program In addition to military
lations between our two despite international cooperation, the partner-
nations have reached a sanctions and diplomatic ship could extend to other
new pinnacle of alliance,” pressure. strategic areas, including
Kim triumphantly declared This alliance heightens cyberwarfare, in which
at a joint press confer- regional tensions and both nations have shown
ence. poses a significant threat considerable capabilities.
The exact contours of this to global stability. The North Korea’s cyberat-
agreement remain mutual support clause in tacks, such as the 2014
shrouded in ambiguity. the agreement could lead Sony Pictures hack and
While it ostensibly involves to coordinated actions numerous attacks on
mutual support, it is un- that defy international financial institutions,
clear if this extends to po- norms and challenge the demonstrate its prowess
tential direct military inter- established global order. in this domain. A collabo-
ventions. Both countries For instance, Russia’s mili- ration with Russia, known
are already intertwined tary capabilities com- for its sophisticated cyber
thanks to the exchange of bined with North Korea’s operations against various
vital resources such as oil, advancements in nuclear countries, could increase
food and weaponry. technology could result in coordinated cyber threats.
The implications of this a powerful and unpredict- Furthermore, the econom-
pact are profoundly dis- able military partnership ic implications of this alli-
turbing. Russia’s demo- that threatens neighbor- ance cannot be over-
cratic institutions have ing countries and beyond. looked. Both countries,
been systematically dis- The potential for mili- facing sanctions and
mantled and dissent is tary-technical collabora- financial challenges,
silenced through impris- tion is particularly con- might leverage this part-
onment or assassination, cerning, given North nership to circumvent
while territorial expansion Korea’s ongoing develop- international restrictions.
has been aggressively ment of nuclear weapons North Korea’s ability to
pursued, as evidenced by and missile technology. provide labor and natural
the annexation of Crimea Such cooperation could resources, combined with
37
Russia’s technological and hold both countries ac- at home and abroad – as
industrial capabilities, countable for their viola- “naive”. But last week at
could lead to a mutually tions of international law is the G7 Summit in Apulia,
beneficial economic a crucial move. world leaders finally rec-
arrangement that under- An integrated strategy ognised that what is truly
mines the effectiveness of combining diplomatic, naive is to imagine that
international sanctions. economic, military and any strategy to end this
The international commu- informational tools, imple- horrific conflict can suc-
nity, led by the US, must mented with broad inter- ceed without people like
take decisive action to national cooperation, is us at the vanguard.
counter such a dangerous necessary to counter the Before this point, we had
partnership. Revitalizing threats the Russia-North grown used to being
diplomatic efforts to iso- Korea alliance poses, labelled “naive” for believ-
late Russia and North safeguarding global ing that more wars, pain,
Korea is essential, involv- peace and security. and loss won’t make any-
ing key players like China body secure or free. While
and India. Enhanced eco- When it comes to Isra- generals and militants
nomic sanctions targeting el-Palestine, true naivety who believe that one more
critical sectors and indi- is believing in endless war round of violence, and one
viduals will curb their ca- Published in Al Jazeera more generation of be-
pabilities. Strengthening We are an Israeli and a reaved and traumatised
military readiness through Palestinian who forged an people – after a century of
regional defense alliances “unlikely” friendship when nothing else but that, will
and joint exercises will also the world expected us to bring security or liberation
deter aggression. hate each other. – are feted as realists.
Cybersecurity measures One of us lost his parents Why, after so many years
should include robust on October 7, the other lost of this failed formula
international collabora- his brother in the first Inti- resulting in escalating vio-
tions and specific fada. It was this mutual lence, death and destruc-
countermeasures against loss, pain and shared tion, are its proponents not
cyber threats from these vision that brought us the ones branded as
nations. Intensifying hu- together. “naive” or worse?
manitarian and human We recognise that our loss, It is not naive to know that
rights initiatives can draw but also our friendship, is the only route to justice
global attention to the the result of the absence and equality is peace. The
situations in North Korea of peace. We’re unusual, route is straightforward.
and Russia. Also, restrict- but by no means unique. We must create hope
ing sensitive technology We are part of a commu- when hope is hard to find.
exports and developing nity of Israelis and Pales- We must amplify the
economic alternatives for tinians who have different voices of peacemakers.
nations dependent on nationalities, religions and We must show that we are
Russia and North Korea will narratives. But a shared not divided by nationality,
weaken their strategic po- identity: it’s called peace- ethnicity or race. We are
sitions. builder. divided by those who be-
Finally, utilizing interna- We have often been mar- lieve in justice, peace and
tional legal institutions to ginalised by many – both equality and those who
38
don’t – yet. ons to be the only lan- last week, the G7 released
Our plan includes letting guage spoken. We cannot their communique which
go of our bitterness, hate, stand by as thousands included unprecedented
and the desire for revenge. endure the same loss and new language prioritising
Both of us have embarked pain we have. Our voices civil society peacebuilding
on journeys of forgiveness. must be heard. We provide as a critical component of
Hatred is a corrosive force, an alternative vision for any diplomatic resolution
leaving one empty inside. this land from the river to to the Israeli-Palestinian
It breeds physical and the sea and know that it conflict.
emotional illness, with can be achieved within a Over the past month, we
nothing that can quench few years. joined the Alliance for
the thirst of such desire. We are fortunate to be Middle East Peace (ALL-
We’ve come to under- part of a community of MEP) in leading a global
stand that forgiveness, Israeli and Palestinian coalition united in calling
unlike reconciliation, is a peacebuilders – some of for this new approach
personal choice. It is a de- whom have experienced from the G7. The call,
cision we make not be- loss like us, all of whom are echoed by over 350 NGOs,
cause the perpetrators as earnestly committed as His Holiness Pope Francis,
deserve it, but because we we are – who have been members of the British
prioritise our shared hu- tirelessly working for a long and European parliaments
manity over animosity. We time. – was a simple one: do not
forgive because we refuse World leaders, who have, talk about peace without
to allow others to exploit for too long, allowed the those Palestinians and
our pain to justify harming status quo to fester from Israelis who have dedicat-
innocent individuals. afar, aware of the bub- ed their lives – as we have
While we are prepared to bling below the surface – to seeking peace.
forgive the past and pres- but distant enough to And, they listened. For the
ent, what we cannot for- ignore the smell of the first time in history, the G7
give is a bleak future smoke rising, would be released a communique
trapped in endless vio- naive to think that we can that centres on civil soci-
lence. We are not doomed return to conflict manage- ety peacebuilding and the
to an everlasting cycle of ment, provide weapons to vital work of local peace
violence. We believe that “keep the peace,” and NGOs, which are absolute-
we can alter our reality. build broken piers to feed ly crucial to help solve this
And it’s that hope that we the starving children. conflict.
hold onto every morning However – finally – this We want to thank these
and that gives us strength past week we saw a glim- leaders for, finally, doing
to achieve our mission. mer of hope. Hope that the the right thing. For finally
We are aware of the deaf- “free world” is finally listen- recognising the critical
ening language of bombs ing to us, and recognising role that grassroots
and the fear and anger on the urgency for new, inclu- organisations have to play
the streets. We are also sive ideas. in any long-term, sustain-
angry, but we transform After years of ignoring the able peace process.
our anger into a fuel for conflict, with four of the For making sure that
our activism. We cannot last five G7 communiques peace is not an after-
allow the sounds of weap- failing to mention it at all, thought. While every prev-
39
ious round of Israeli-Pales- democracy And this was an election in

tinian diplomacy has Published in TRT World which the Election Com-
lacked a “bottom-up” India’s Narendra Modi will mission of India (ECI) was
strategy this new policy be sworn in as prime min- seen to have played an
represents a true turning ister on June 8 for a record actively partisan role.
point. third time, but this time, his Not only that, the BJP had
But this is only the begin- government will have to more resources than all
ning. G7 leaders must now depend on two regional other political parties
work with us to turn this parties opposed to his combined, and it used all
policy shift into real prog- Bharatiya Janata Party the instruments of the
ress. To develop strategies (BJP)’s Hindu majoritarian state against the opposi-
that can fulfil the promise ideology to make up the tion.
of this new policy shift numbers. The opposition alliance,
which will allow us – the With the return of coalition INDIA, won 234 seats, while
peacebuilders – to lead in politics, Modi will no longer the Congress virtually
shaping a new reality, wield absolute power, or doubled its strength from
where the horrors and be able to disregard the 2019 by winning 99 seats in
injustices of recent Constitution and other the lower house of Parlia-
months are never allowed democratic institutions in ment, the Lok Sabha.
to recur. the way he has for the last These numbers mean that
Our call for peace arises decade. the face-off in the next
not from naivety, but out of The famed Modi magic, Parliament will be far more
a profound understanding clearly, has not worked this equal than it has been in
of the cost of conflict. We time–the magic that had, the previous two Lok
have tasted the pain, in the past, mesmerised Sabhas in which the
experienced the loss and unhappy voters into set- BJP-led NDA had an over-
witnessed the devastation ting aside their own griev- whelming majority. The
firsthand. Nevertheless, we ances, converting losing BJP will now find it much
hold onto the belief that a candidates into winners. harder to push through
future where Israelis and Modi’s BJP lost more than any legislation or amend-
Palestinians coexist in a fifth of the seats it had ments to the Constitution
peace and equality is pos- won in 2019, and though he that it may have had in the
sible. We are modelling was re-elected from his pipeline.
what peace between own constituency of Vara- India’s BJP, led by Naren-
Israelis and Palestinians nasi, his vote share dra Modi, lost its majority
can be like. If we are able dropped dramatically by for the first time in a
to reconcile, work together around nine percentage decade and will now have
and care for each other, points. to work with coalition part-
we know that our nations Across the country, the BJP ners to govern for a third
can, too. We look forward won 240 seats, 32 short of term. But can the opposi-
to working with G7 leaders the halfway mark of 272. tion wrest control from
to ensure this vision be- With its National Demo- Modi’s alliance? pic.twit-
comes a reality. cratic Alliance (NDA) allies, ter.com/Q8Z2tgb9eH
it touched 291, a far cry — TRT World (@trtworld)
Why a weakened Modi is from the 400-plus that it June 5, 2024.
good news for India's de- had set its sights on.
40
Modi will no longer be able in the way the Lower House climbing to a mere 52 in
to ride roughshod over his is run, with the BJP no 2019, winning 99 seats this
cabinet colleagues, chief longer able to silence op- time is a sign of a revival.
ministers, party members, position voices. Ahead of the elections, the
and indeed, the opposi- Modi will also have to Congress’s Rahul Gandhi
tion. make peace with the undertook two yatras –
He will have to adopt a Rashtriya Swayamsewak journeys – on foot across
more consensual ap- Sangh (RSS), from which it the length and breadth of
proach towards everyone, draws ideological inspira- the country. This helped to
and he will not, hopefully, tion. revive the base of an
be able to browbeat the In India, PM Narendra increasingly defunct party
bureaucracy or arm-twist Modi's alliance has and gave Gandhi the op-
those who head critical reached the 272-seat portunity to personally
institutions, such as the threshold to form a gov- convey his message to
investigative agencies, the ernment. However, his thousands of people.
judiciary and the Election Hindu Nationalist BJP party In the process, his person-
Commission. lost its outright majority, al popularity has risen. This
Modi will also have to heed falling far below its was evident in his con-
the wishes of his allies 400-seat target. vincing victories in both
from the Telugu Desam Political dynamics could the seats he contested –
Party (TDP), the Janata change if Modi's alliance Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh
Dal-United, and the two partners switch sides and Wayanad in Kerala.
splinter groups of the Shiv pic.twitter.com/7wl- Indeed, he has earned his
Sena and Nationalist Con- zAMm3ox spurs in this election and
gress Party, which have — TRT World (@trtworld) now has the stature of a
also aligned with the NDA. June 5, 2024 national leader.
Indeed, on June 5, less Its members traditionally The Congress and the
than 24 hours after the work for the BJP elections, regional parties that com-
results had come in, but this time, reports sug- prised the opposition INDIA
reports of the first gest that they have stayed bloc campaigned on a
post-election NDA meet- aloof in many places. BJP range of issues: they
ing indicated that the president JP Nadda made flagged economic dis-
allies had given their wish things worse when he said tress, caused by high un-
lists to Modi – the number in a recent interview: “In employment and rising
of ministerial berths as the beginning, we would prices, and the agricultural
well as the portfolios they have been less capable, crisis; they simultaneously
expected to be given. smaller and needed the highlighted the possibility
In addition, the TDP has RSS. Today, we have grown that if the BJP and its allies
demanded the post of Lok and we are capable. The crossed 400, as the party
Sabha Speaker, a powerful BJP runs itself.” had boasted, they might
constitutional functionary For the Congress that–af- amend the Constitution to
tasked with ensuring the ter leading a United Pro- end the system of quotas
smooth conduct of the gressive Alliance (UPA) for the Scheduled Castes,
lower House. government for a decade Tribes and Other Back-
If the last goes through, (2004-2014)–shrank to a ward Castes.
there will be a sea change paltry 44 seats in 2014 and Finally, they spoke of the
41
dangers of authoritarian- October 2023 executive projected to boost pro-

ism, hate speech and an- order on AI, in particular, ductivity by as much as
ti-minority actions. The has been rightly praised 0.6 percent annually,
opposition–disparate and for focusing on responsi- enabling the global econ-
disorganised as it ble innovation. By facilitat- omy to grow despite
was–managed to make its ing the development of slower workforce growth.
narrative resonate with crucial standards, tools, The US has more AI-relat-
the people, if not every- tests and transparency ed startups than the rest of
where, certainly in Maha- requirements, it could help the world combined and
rashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar establish accountability, the current US stock
Pradesh and West Bengal, discourage illegal and market rally can be at
which together account dangerous applications least partly attributed to
for 195 seats out of 542. and guard against disin- optimistic predictions
The biggest shock for the formation, privacy viola- about AI’s future. With a
BJP came in Uttar Pradesh tions and intellectual market capitalization of
where it had hoped to property theft. $3.3 trillion, chipmaker
better its 2019 record of 64 As a transformative gen- Nvidia alone is worth more
out of 80 seats; instead, it eral purpose technology, than the entire German
ended up with just 33 AI is likely to have a stock market. Meanwhile,
seats. far-reaching impact on as companies like Google,
society and the labor Microsoft, Facebook,
Harnessing AI for the market. Consequently, the Apple, Tesla and IBM
common good US government must spend billions of dollars
Published in Arab News study the technology’s integrating AI into their
Much of the media cover- labor implications and act existing products and ser-
age of artificial intelli- rapidly and decisively to vices, the Boston Consult-
gence has focused on its protect workers against ing Group projects that
potential negative impact. potential disruptions. this technological boom
Science fiction scenarios However, in addition to will account for 20 percent
like the human-robot wars protecting workers and of its revenues in 2024.
of the “Terminator” fran- consumers against po- Even the electricity sector
chise and real-world con- tential risks, the govern- is growing rapidly, fueled
troversies, such as the ment should also play a by the enormous power
proliferation of deep fakes more active role in pro- needs of large language
and OpenAI’s unautho- moting the development models.
rized use of Scarlett of AI applications that AI has also made signifi-
Johansson’s voice for its serve the public good. To cant inroads into numer-
new digital assistant, have achieve this, the US could ous nontechnology sec-
captured the public imag- leverage its significant tors. In the healthcare
ination, stoking fears of a and growing technologi- industry, it is used for diag-
dystopian future. cal lead. nostics, personalized
Fortunately, both the AI Globally, about $50 billion medicine, patient man-
industry and US President in venture capital has agement, administrative
Joe Biden’s administration been invested in the sector tasks and pharmaceutical
seem to be taking these just in the past year. Con- research. The financial
concerns seriously.Biden’s sequently, the AI boom is sector employs AI techno-
42
logies for fraud detection, community input, all of Of course, policymakers

risk management and which necessitate greater must ensure that this data
personalized services. In public-private coopera- is accurate, unbiased and
manufacturing, these tion and a massive effort used responsibly. While
technologies enhance to recruit and train AI this will not be easy, as evi-
supply chain optimization, talent. denced by the bungled
equipment maintenance As is often the case in new rollout of the new student
and quality control, while technological arenas, Cal- financial aid forms, it is
agriculture companies ifornia is at the forefront of conceivable that individu-
integrate AI into precision global efforts to promote als’ information will soon
farming, crop monitoring, AI for the common good. In be pre-filled into govern-
pest control and predic- May, the state hosted a ment forms, automatically
tive analytics. And law joint AI conference with enrolling them in certain
firms increasingly rely on Stanford University and public programs and
AI for document review, the University of California, allowing them to opt out.
research, contract analy- Berkeley, and launched a Perhaps the most promis-
sis and compliance man- six-month pilot program ing public policy option is
agement. that aims to evaluate the the integration of AI into
Driven primarily by market suitability of generative AI training and education
forces with minimal gov- tools for services like cus- programs. Recent innova-
ernment intervention, tomer support, highway tions in generative AI have
these sectors are begin- traffic management and made personalized,
ning to harness AI’s poten- public safety. one-on-one tutoring scal-
tial to improve efficiency, Governments can also able and accessible, with
reduce costs and deliver play an important role in studies showing that these
better products. But the facilitating research and tools could help bridge the
government still plays a development. The US gap between low- and
crucial role in advancing already spends $95 billion high-skilled workers. The
the integration of AI into annually on defense and Khan Academy’s “Khan-
essential public services national security research migo,” a tutoring bot for
like healthcare, transpor- and development and $61 schools, is a prime exam-
tation and education. billion on health-related ple of AI’s potential educa-
While some public policy research — two areas that tional benefits.
applications will resemble will be dramatically To be sure, like most other
private sector uses like affected by AI. Notably, the technological advances,
fraud detection, procure- government has vast AI can have both positive
ment, risk management, amounts of data, both and negative effects.
logistics, traffic manage- public and private, that Given the right policies
ment and software devel- could be harnessed for and talent, it could fuel
opment, others will require open-source applications innovation, enhance com-
careful adaptation to aimed at improving traffic petitiveness, boost pro-
meet government agen- monitoring, weather ana- ductivity and improve
cies’ specific needs. These lytics, disaster prevention public sector efficiency.
include data analytics and and response, economic But to unlock its full poten-
visualization, customer statistics and public tial, the US government
service and support and health. must ensure that AI is used
43
to serve the common Opinion polls now show wide is down to levels last
good. States like California that less than half of seen in 1985 — almost 40
are already leading the French voters see that as a years ago. According to
way. threat to democracy. In the report 71pc of the
the US, former president world’s population — 5.7
Ailing democracy Donald Trump is the billion people — live in au-
Published in Dawn front-runner in the presi- tocracies — an increase
AT a time when democra- dential election due in No- from 48pc 10 years ago.
cy across the world is vember. Barring any legal Similarly, the latest edition
under challenge, there impediment, he is poised of the Global State of De-
have recently been a to regain the presidency. mocracy 2023 report by
number of developments, In Britain, Nigel Farage’s the Stockholm-based
some that may shape its Reform party is expected International Institute for
future trajectory. Elections to make gains in next Democracy and Electoral
in India saw the BJP lose it month’s elections at the Assistance sees democra-
majority and its leader Na- expense of the Conserva- cies continuing to contract
rendra Modi cut down to tive party. globally with erosion in
size — a verdict widely The resurgence of the far checks and balances and
viewed as voters salvag- right in the West comes at constitutional freedoms in
ing India’s democracy a time when democracy is nominally democratic
from the authoritarian, au- already under threat states. It finds that for six
tocratic direction a popu- across the world. Demo- consecutive years “more
list demagogue was cratic regression is now a countries experienced net
taking the country in. India worldwide phenomenon. declines in democratic
may have started to buck Democratic backsliding processes than net im-
the global trend of demo- has been pervasive in provements”.
cratic erosion but else- countries facing challeng- Democratic weakening is
where developments have es from polarisation, intol- also the finding by the
reinforced this trend. erance, anti-minority sen- Economist Intelligence
Europe has just seen timent and toxic politics. Unit, which conducts an
far-right parties make This global trend has been annual survey of the
stunning gains in the Euro- recorded by many inter- health of democracy in 165
pean Parliament polls at national organisations. countries, assessing them
the cost of French Presi- In its annual Democracy across five measures. Its
dent Emmanuel Macron Report 2024, the Swedish report, published earlier
and German Chancellor V-Dem Institute finds de- this year, says conflict and
Olaf Scholz’s parties. mocracy has declined in polarisation have driven a
This prompted Macron to almost all regions of the new low for global democ-
call snap legislative elec- world with “the wave of racy. Its democracy index
tions in a high-stakes autocratisation” becom- shows less than 8pc of the
effort to contain Marine Le ing more pronounced. Its world’s population now
Pen’s National Rally party research shows a rollback reside in full democracies,
by turning it into a referen- of democratic rights and and that 39pc are under
dum on the far right. But institutions. It says the authoritarian rule — up
the spectre looms of Le level of democracy from 37pc in 2022. It desig-
Pen’s party winning power. enjoyed by citizens world- nates Pakistan as a coun-
44
try under authoritarian attitudes to democracy. inequality, lack of respon-

rule, downgraded from the He writes, “If a political siveness by institutions to
previous year when it was leader refuses to accept public concerns, political
classified as a hybrid de- the results of an election polarisation, as well as
mocracy. The report clas- and wants to smash the economic and social dis-
sifies India and America as ‘deep state’ (in reality, the content spawned by glo-
flawed democracies. It state itself), then he or she balisation and the
finds 37pc of people living is clearly on the far right.” cost-of-living crisis. Many
in a flawed democracy But leaders who pursue analysts ascribe the far
and 15pc in hybrid reactionary, even racist right’s surge in Europe to
regimes. policies (he includes Italy’s public discontent with
The rise of the far right or Prime Minister Giorgia soaring inflation, fallout of
ultra-nationalist populist Meloni) but “within the the war in Ukraine, an-
leaders has much to do framework of democratic ti-immigrant sentiment
with democratic reversals. politics and the rule of and the cost of green poli-
In countries witnessing this law”, cannot be regarded cies.
phenomenon elected as far right. Sometimes, he Pakistan too has seen
leaders have acted with argues, the line between a democratic decline, but
impunity to erode civil new form of authoritarian for reasons different from
liberties, curb freedom of conservatism and the far those challenging de-
expression, suppress dis- right becomes “blurry.” mocracy elsewhere. The
sent, persecute minority The global trend of demo- 2018 election led to a form
groups and undermine cratic regression in the last of hybrid democracy that
any check-and-balance decade or more raises the increasingly shifted the
system that holds govern- question of the underlying civil-military power bal-
ments to account. They factors responsible for this ance and gave way to a
have shown disregard for and for the rise of far-right greater establishment role
democratic institutions populist leaders. This in governance, the politi-
and norms, engaged in cannot be attributed to cal system and even eco-
authoritarian conduct and any uniform set of reasons nomic management. This
used hyper-nationalism to as each country’s case is has been accompanied
rally support, orchestrat- different with distinct fac- by polarised politics and
ing anti-minority senti- tors shaping its political an unbroken political
ment that often triggered trajectory. deadlock that has mar-
violence. This has turned Some common features ginalised parliament and
their political systems into can still be identified ruled out resolution of dis-
illiberal or flawed democ- although this is not an putes by political means.
racies and deeply divided exhaustive list. They While efforts to curtail the
their societies. include the failure of tradi- freedom of expression
In a recent op-ed in the tional political parties and have been resisted, the
Financial Times, Gideon their policies to meet media is still subject to
Rachman makes a dis- heightened public expec- ‘informal’ controls. Mean-
tinction between the far tations, growing discon- while, the opposition con-
right and the right, which is nect between political tinues to face coercive ac-
helpful to keep in mind. elites and the people, poor tions. This makes the out-
The dividing line is their governance, increasing look for democracy in Pak-
45
istan as cloudy as it is in of CPEC. What was, how- Liu Jianchao, Minister of

other parts of the world. ever, noticeable, was the the International Depart-
slight change of language ment of the Central Com-
China’s loud and clear in the joint statement. It is mittee of the Communist
message for Pakistan a ritual that every new Party of China (IDCPC),
Published in The Express Prime Minister undertakes undertook a three-day trip
Tribune China has its own a visit to China. After the to Pakistan. He co-chaired
way of conducting diplo- July 2018 elections, then the meeting of Paki-
macy. It seldom embar- Prime Minister Imran Khan stan-China Joint Consul-
rasses friends in public. No visited Beijing. When he tative Mechanism with
matter the gravity of the was removed through a Deputy Prime Minister and
situation, Beijing’s pre- VOCN in April 2022, his Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
ferred method has often successor Shehbaz Sharif A graduate from Oxford
been working behind the did not wait too long University, Jianchao, unlike
scenes. Islamabad and before traveling to China. most Chinese leaders, is
Beijing have a long stand- Even caretaker Prime Min- fluent in English. In his
ing strategic relationship. ister Anwaar-ul-Haq felt it speech delivered in front
China has always stood necessary to do the same. of the representatives of
with Pakistan from eco- After the Feb 8 elections, all political parties, the
nomic crisis to troubled Shehbaz undertook a trip Chinese minister made
ties with India and so on. to Beijing earlier this some key observations.
Under the BRI, China has month. In the statements Jianchao, considered
pumped billions of dollars issued after the 2018 and close to President Xi, was
of investment into Paki- 2022 visits, China stressed more frank about the rela-
stan. Publically, both that the relationship with tionship with Pakistan.
countries always speak Pakistan was its “highest China is believed to have
highly of their time-tested priority”. But in the joint been privately raising
“iron brother” relationship. statements issued after concerns about two major
But far from the positive Kakar’s visit and Shehbaz’s issues — political instabili-
public messaging, there recent trip, the word “high- ty and security — with
are underlying issues est” was omitted. Since Pakistan. The Chinese Min-
which are hampering their China is always very cau- ister for the first time
bilateral relationship. The tious in conducting diplo- brought those two prob-
recent visit of Prime Minis- macy, it cannot be called lems to the public. He
ter Shehbaz Sharif, who an insignificant develop- called for political unity to
was also accompanied by ment. tackle problems and at
Army Chief General Asim While there was still the same stressed the
Munir, had everything — he enough in the joint state- need for building political
attended a business ment for the Pakistani consensus on CPEC. This
forum and met the Chi- government to project the despite the fact that Ishaq
nese leadership, including visit as success, the Dar earlier stated that all
the President and the follow-up visit of a key political parties were on
PrimeMinister. The joint Chinese minister gave us the same page when it
statement painted a rosy rare insight into how Bei- came to CPEC.
picture of their relationship jing views Islamabad now. The highlight of his speech,
and the “upgraded version though, was his statement
46
which many observers see Many studies look at the th American Indigenous
as a warning on the secu- effect of climate change groups viewed fire as a
rity environment in Paki- on wildfires. However, this great assistance to land-
stan. study sought to under- scape management, the
“We need to improve stand the reverse — Europeans only saw it as a
security and the business whether large fires are destructive force that
environment. Security also changing the climate. needed to be avoided at
threats are the main haz- And it concluded, “It ap- all costs, and this led them
ards disturbing CPEC pears these fires are cre- to implement policies that
cooperation,” he ating their own fire weath- suppressed all fire. The
remarked. “As people er.” Therefore, facing a shift in attitude within the
often say, confidence is surge in wildfires, the US continent and suppression
more precious than gold. Government turned to of Indigenous culture
In the case of Pakistan, the native wisdom and ad- caused a significant loss in
primary factor shaking the vanced archaeology. After traditional fire knowledge
confidence of Chinese a sharp increase in un- and practices, leading to
investors is the security controllable wildfires ecological consequences
situation. Without security, across the northern U.S. and large wildfires. Red
the business environment, and Canada in recent de- pine forests, like those
the security of the country, cades, the Bureau of found in the Border Lakes
cannot really improve, Indian Affairs and the U.S. area, especially benefit
which may in turn under- Forest Service have been from this use of fire as their
mine the development in open to new approaches seeds require exposed soil
the long run,” he added. and ways to address the to grow. Moreover, a
This is perhaps for the first inherent weaknesses of greater balance between
time any Chinese leader their bureaucracies. Due woody and grassy/ her-
spoke publicly and frankly to their lack of historical baceous plants improves
about the dangers of the understanding of past fire food availability for live-
security situation under- management methods, stock, wildlife, and pollina-
mining Pakistan-China they turned to archaeolo- tors. Clearing dead or dry
cooperation. The message gists, who have collected vegetation in this manner
is loud and clear for Paki- information on more than also allows for fire-depen-
stan! 10,000 years of human ac- dent species and import-
tivity. For their approach, ant food sources to grow,
Burning Margalla these government agen- such as the blueberry in
Published in The Nation cies studied the perspec- the Great Lakes region.
Large-scale wildfires and tives and wisdom of Indig- Blueberries used to prolif-
increasing temperatures enous peoples offered erate in the region due to
are also a global phenom- through shared oral histo- fire-based interventions
enon now. A new study by ries. from the Ojibwe commu-
the University of California, The arrival of European nity, who cleared patches
Riverside shows that soot settlers to the North Amer- of the forest floor and
from large wildfires in Cali- ican continent brought made them conducive to
fornia traps sunlight, about a turning point in berry bush growth. In ad-
making days warmer and the relationship between dition, reducing the
drier than they ought to be people and fire. While Nor- amount of dry vegetation
47
on forest floors also limits based patches into kitch-

the potential severity of en gardens, turning all
future wildfires by mini- rooftops, balconies, and all
mizing the available fuels. open areas green with free
The resurgence of cultural delivery of suitable plants
fire practices, stemming and pots to the public by
from the initiatives started the government in every
by the People, Fire, and nook and corner of the
Pines project, underlines country. Taking a start
the value of combining from educational institu-
Indigenous and archaeo- tions shall greatly help. The
logical knowledge. By digging of water catch-
reclaiming controlled ment holes, and wells,
burns and implementing expanding ancient Karez
centuries-old fire practic- system, and building max-
es to support effective imum small dams must be
forest management undertaken on priority as a
today, the relationship be- survival obligation. The
tween people and their Burning Margalla Hills
surrounding environments must be taken as a warn-
can be re-established. An- ing by the Almighty to the
alyzing prehistoric data to Government and the
better understand the root People to do everything
causes of modern issues possible in collective and
that originated in the individual capacities to
greater global past, like overcome the uncontrol-
human contributions to lable wildfires and heat-
climate change, conflict, waves scorching the earth.
and disease, can be used
to facilitate solutions to
current issues and avoid
greater ones in the future.
The Government of Paki-
stan and especially the
forest and ecology de-
partments need to learn a
lot from such advanced
studies rather than just
being onlookers. The focus
has to be on ending defor-
estation, significantly pro-
moting afforestation,
making use of ancient
practices, reviving the old
culture of making planters
or available small land-
48
4
PHILOSOPHY
CORNER
49
PHILOSOPHICAL THOUGHTS OF IBN KHALDUN
NAYAB NOOR
Ibn Khaldun, born in 1332 in Tunis, is considered one of the most promi-
nent Arab scholars, renowned for his pioneering work in history, sociolo-
gy, economics, and philosophy. His most significant contribution lies in
his book, the "Muqaddimah" (Introduction), where he lays the foundation
for the philosophy of history and social science. Ibn Khaldun's thoughts
reflect a profound understanding of human society and the dynamics of
civilizations, offering insights that remain relevant even today.
Theory of 'Asabiyyah (Social Cohesion)

Central to Ibn Khaldun's philosophy is the concept of 'Asabiyyah, which
translates to social cohesion or group solidarity. He posited that 'Asabi-
yyah is the driving force behind the rise and fall of civilizations. According
to Ibn Khaldun, strong 'Asabiyyah binds people together, enabling them
to work collectively towards common goals, leading to the establish-
ment and expansion of empires. However, as societies become more
prosperous and urbanized, their 'Asabiyyah weakens, resulting in the de-
cline of the political and social structure.
Cyclical Theory of History

Ibn Khaldun's cyclical theory of history is another cornerstone of his phi-
losophy. He observed that history is not linear but cyclical, with civilizat-
50
ions undergoing a predictable pattern of birth, growth, peak, decline, and

eventual collapse. This cycle, he argued, is driven by changes in 'Asabi-
yyah. As ruling groups become complacent and decadent, their ability to
maintain control diminishes, leading to the rise of new groups with stron-
ger 'Asabiyyah who eventually take over. This theory was groundbreak-
ing as it challenged the prevailing notion of history as a series of isolated
events and emphasized the recurring patterns in human societies.
Economic and Sociological Insights

Ibn Khaldun also made significant contributions to economic thought
and sociology. He recognized the importance of labor in wealth creation,
stating that human effort is the primary source of economic value. He
also examined the role of government in the economy, cautioning
against excessive taxation, which he believed stifled productivity and
economic growth. His insights into the division of labor and the interde-
pendence of urban and rural economies were remarkably advanced for
his time.
Philosophy of Education and Knowledge

In his discussions on education and knowledge, Ibn Khaldun emphasized
the importance of empirical observation and critical thinking. He criti-
cized the rote memorization prevalent in traditional education and ad-
vocated for a more analytical approach to learning. Ibn Khaldun be-
lieved that understanding the causes and effects in history and society
required a scientific method of inquiry, which involved careful observa-
tion, comparison, and logical reasoning.
Influence and Legacy

Ibn Khaldun's philosophical thoughts have had a lasting impact on vari-
ous fields. His work influenced later scholars in the Islamic world and
beyond, including European thinkers during the Enlightenment. In the
modern era, his concepts of social cohesion and cyclical history have
been revisited by sociologists, historians, and political scientists. Ibn
Khaldun's emphasis on empirical observation and critical analysis also
prefigured the methodologies used in contemporary social sciences.
51
Conclusion
Ibn Khaldun's philosophical thoughts reflect a profound and nuanced
understanding of human societies. His theories on 'Asabiyyah, the cycli-
cal nature of history, and the interplay between economics and society
provide a comprehensive framework for analyzing the rise and fall of civ-
ilizations. His emphasis on empirical observation and critical thinking
continues to inspire scholars and remains a testament to his enduring
legacy in the realms of history, sociology, and philosophy.
52
5
WISDOM
ARCHIVES
11
SPACE DIPLOMACY
USMAN ALI AWAN
When it comes to space, we are conflict resolution and making new

facing problems that transcend alliances. It can also serve to inte-
nations. It doesn’t matter who is grate different kinds of knowledge
creating more satellites or creating with distinct cultures and countries.
more debris, we all get it in the neck This idea is especially important as
in the end. Therefore, a single nation humanity tries to solve the big,
cannot give a solution or tell other complex problems that come up
nations what to do. It is not Nation A with space travel and sustainability.
telling Nation B instead it is the
people of Earth telling themselves When it comes to space explora-
what to do next. The solution is tion, no one country has all the an-
human solution. swers. Every society and culture has
Last week I interviewed an Interna- its own view of the world, which is
tional Space Consultant for NASA often summed up in their episte-
and SpaceX. I asked her how differ- mology, religious texts, and ancient
ent nations can move ahead in the wisdom. Through space diplomacy,
challenges of space debris and she countries can share this vast
started off with two keywords: “In- amount of knowledge, which could
ternational Cooperation” and lead to the discovery of new ideas
“Space Diplomacy”. or technologies that have not been
So what is Space Diplomacy? I studied by mainstream science.
remember diplomacy being effec-
tive in space when I was reading Ideas of Isaac Asimov
Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series. The character of Hari Seldon in Asi-
mov's "Foundation" series illustrates
What is Space Diplomacy? very clearly how important it is to
From what I learned, space diplo- preserve knowledge. Seldon comes
macy is the use of diplomatic strat- up with psychohistory, a method of
egies and tactics to negotiate, predicting the future based on his-
manage, and solve problems that torical trends and the behaviors of
arise in the conduct of space oper- the large masses. This science is a
ations. This includes dealing with mix of maths, history, and psychol-
problems like managing satellite ogy, showing how blending various
traffic, getting rid of space junk, and disciplines can lead to huge ad-
making sure that nation-states and vancements.
other entities can use space Seldon's psychohistory is vital for
peacefully. planning the Foundation, which is
both a place for scientists to work
Space diplomacy is beyond just together and a place to store know-
54
ledge. The Foundation's job of stresses how important it is to take

keeping this information safe care of as well as value the
makes sure that the seeds for a cosmic environment. This way of
new, more advanced society will thinking can lead to policies that
be kept alive even after the Ga- put long-term sustainability of
lactic Empire falls. This preserva- space activities at the top of their
tion is critical for the eventual list of priorities. This change of lens
rebirth of galactic society, show- can help make sure that exploring
ing how knowledge from the past space preserves the environment
can help guide growth in the in space for future generations.
future. Contrasting this view, Western
epistemology sees the universe
The Way Forward in Space Diplo- more like a machine made of
macy dead matter that needs to be
In the real world, space diplomacy used instead of living with in har-
can help people share and keep mony. This mechanical way of
information and knowledge in the thinking can lead to behaviour
same way. Just like Pono by Priva- and policies that exploit space
teer Space is sharing data, shar- resources at the top of the list,
ing knowledge relies on humans. which could cause problems and
Humans, who are the centre of the practices that can't last.
universe as we humanists believe. Contrarily, religions like Islam,
As countries work together on Buddhism, and Taoism regard the
space projects, share data, and universe as similar to Mother
talk about space treaties, they Earth—a living being that we are
also share scientific and cultural responsible for and must pass on
insights that could lead to new to future generations. These be-
discoveries or innovations.For liefs promote a healthy connec-
example, Islamic epistemology tion with the universe, emphasiz-
underlines how the universeis ing that we do not possess it, but
interconnected and how humans rather serve as its caretakers tem-
should take care of creation. The porarily.
Hadith, which says, “The world is Furthermore, the philosophical
beautiful and verdant, and verily and ethical perspectives derived
God, be He exalted, has made you from diverse cultures can contrib-
His stewards in it, and He sees how ute to the establishment of stan-
you acquit yourselves” (Muslim), dards and principles for space
55
exploration. For example, the Bud-

dhist principles of interdepen-
dence could guide sustainable
practices in space by highlighting
the importance of taking into ac-
count the lasting effects of human
activities on the universe.
Ending Notes
Space diplomacy fosters a con-
versation between different belief
systems and utilizes their distinct
perspectives to address not just
immediate technological obsta-
cles but also enhance the philo-
sophical, ethical, and cultural
aspects of space travel. This holis-
tic strategy guarantees that when
mankind ventures into space, it
does so with a profound under-
standing that encompasses a
wide range of perspectives, po-
tentially discovering solutions in
ancient wisdom that modern sci-
ence alone may not conquer.
About the Author

Usman is a space sustainability
researcher, writer and co-founder
of Space Guardian. His works on
space sustainability are recog-
nized by the National Parliamen-
tary Task Force on UN SDGs, the
Faculty of UT Austin and recently
by Int. Space Consultants.
56
6
QUOTES FOR
YOU!
11
WORDS OF WISDOM
COMPILED BY SANIA SALEEM
CLIMATE CHANGE
“When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.”
Benjamin Franklin
“For all the immediate challenges that we gather to address-- terror-
ism, instability, inequality, disease -- there’s one issue that will define
the contours of this century more dramatically than any other, and that
is the urgent and growing threat of a changing climate.”
Barack Obama- Former President, USA

“We have a single mission: to protect and hand on the planet to the
next generation.”
Francois Hollande, Former President of France

“So we are left with a stark choice: allow climate disruption to change
everything about our world, or change pretty much everything about
our economy to avoid that fate. But we need to be very clear: because
of our decades of collective denial, no gradual, incremental options are
now available to us.”
Naomi Klein, This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate

“On climate change, we often don't fully appreciate that it is a problem.
We think it is a problem waiting to happen.”
Kofi Annan, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations

“Change or be changed, right? And what we mean by that is that
climate change, if we don't change course, if we don't change our politi-
cal and economic system, is going to change everything about our
physical world.”
Naomi Klein, This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate
58
CLIMATE CHANGE AND PAKISTAN
“If there is any doubt about loss and damage — go to Pakistan. There is
loss. There is damage. The devastation of climate change is real. Paki-
stan’s climate carnage is beyond imagination.”
António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations

“We must also not lose sight of a most startling fact. Pakistan is
amongst a score of countries which are disproportionately vulnerable
to the consequences of climate change. To ignore the reality of climate
change is to be unjust and it disregards future generations.”
Justice Qazi Faez Isa, Chief Justice Pakistan

“The dystopia has already come to our doorstep ... The political ad-
vances we make here will have very little meaning on the ground unless
there is a transfer of resources that shifts the needle on how people
face the future.”
Sherry Rehman, Former Minister of Climate Change, Pakistan

“The cost of climate change for Pakistan is very high. But the cost of
inaction and growing procrastination is even higher. It is often made
worse by the absence of coordination among and within federal minis-
tries and between the latter and the provincial departments. his cycle is
vicious: the less we prepare our communities to brace for climate
action, the more vulnerable our economy becomes.”
Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Climate Change and development Expert
59
7
SCREENING TEST
ALERT
ISLAMIC STUDIES
CURRENT AFFAIRS
PAKISTAN AFFAIRS
61
PAKISTAN AFFAIRS
1. Who was the first President of A) 2,912 km

Pakistan? B) 3,310 km
A) Iskander Mirza C) 2,330 km
B) Ayub Khan D) 2,950 km
C) Liaquat Ali Khan
D) Muhammad Ali Jinnah
7. Who was the first Prime Minis-
2. In which year was the Lahore ter of Pakistan?
Resolution passed? A) Iskander Mirza
A) 1940 B) Ayub Khan
B) 1930 C) Liaquat Ali Khan
C) 1947 D) Khawaja Nazimuddin
D) 1929
8. Which document is known as
3. Who is known as the Father of the "Constitution of Pakistan"?
the Nation in Pakistan? A) Objective Resolution
A) Allama Iqbal B) Government of India Act 1935
B) Muhammad Ali Jinnah
C) 1973 Constitution
C) Liaquat Ali Khan
D) Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
D) 1956 Constitution
4. When did Pakistan become a 9. The Indus Waters Treaty was

member of the United Nations? signed between India and Paki-
A) 1947 stan in:
B) 1948 A) 1960
C) 1950 B) 1951
D) 1951 C) 1965
D) 1948
5. Which city is known as the 'Man-
chester of Pakistan'? 10, Who wrote the national
A) Lahore
anthem of Pakistan?
B) Karachi
C) Faisalabad
A) Hafeez Jalandhari
D) Sialkot B) Allama Iqbal
C) Faiz Ahmed Faiz
6. What is the total length of the D) Ahmed Ghulamali Chagla
border between Pakistan and
India?
62
CURRENT AFFAIRS
1.Who is the current Prime Minister A) Covaxin

of Pakistan (as of 2024)? B) Sinopharm
A) Imran Khan C) Comirnaty
B) Shehbaz Sharif D) Sputnik V
C) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
D) Asif Ali Zardari
7. The 2023 Nobel Peace Prize
2. COP28, the 2023 United Nations was awarded to:
Climate Change Conference, was A) Malala Yousafzai
held in: B) Maria Ressa
A) UAE C) Ales Bialiatski
B) USA D) World Food Programme
C) China
D) India 8. Which technology company
acquired Twitter in 2022?
3. Which country won the FIFA A) Google
World Cup 2022? B) Amazon
A) Brazil
C) Meta
B) France
C) Argentina
D) Elon Musk
D) Germany
9. Who is the current (2024)
4. The current (2024) Secre- President of the European Com-
tary-General of the United Nations mission?
is: A) Ursula von der Leyen
A) Ban Ki-moon B) Jean-Claude Juncker
B) António Guterres C) Charles Michel
C) Kofi Annan D) Josep Borrell
D) Tedros Adhanom
10 Which country hosted the
5. Which country recently joined
G20 summit in 2023?
BRICS in 2024?
A) Argentina
A) India
B) Saudi Arabia B) Japan
C) Iran C) Australia
D) All of the above D) Italy
6. What is the name of the vaccine

developed by Pfizer for COVID-19?
63
ISLAMIC STUDIES
A) Jibril (Gabriel)
1. Which Surah is called the heart of B) Mikail (Michael)
the Quran? C) Israfil (Raphael)
A) Surah Al-Baqarah D) Azrael (Angel of Death)
B) Surah Yaseen
C) Surah Al-Ikhlas
7. How many times is the word
D) Surah Al-Fatiha
'Zakat' mentioned in the Quran?
2. The first revelation to Prophet A) 25
Muhammad (PBUH) was in the B) 30
cave of: C) 32
A) Hira D) 35
B) Thawr
C) Uhud 8. What is the name of the
D) Arafat Islamic law derived from the
Quran and Hadith?
3. How many verses are there in A) Sharia
Surah Al-Fatiha? B) Fiqh
A) 5
C) Fatwa
B) 6
C) 7
D) Sunnah
D) 8
9. The Hijra (migration) of
4. Who was the first Caliph of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Islam? from Makkah to Madinah took
A) Umar ibn al-Khattab place in which year of the
B) Uthman ibn Affan Islamic calendar?
C) Ali ibn Abi Talib A) 1 AH
D) Abu Bakr Siddiq B) 2 AH
C) 3 AH
5. The Battle of Badr was fought in D) 4 AH
the year:
A) 624 CE
B) 625 CE
10. Who compiled the first com-
C) 623 CE plete written version of the
D) 626 CE Quran?
A) Umar ibn al-Khattab
6. Which angel is responsible for B) Uthman ibn Affan
delivering revelations to proph- C) Ali ibn Abi Talib
ets? D) Abu Bakr Siddiq
64
VOLUME 4
JUNE EDITION
Pakistan Current Islamic

MCQ
Affairs Affairs Studies
1 A B B
2 A A A
3 B C C
4 B B D
5 C D A
6 A C A
7 C C C
8 C D A
9 A A A
10 A A B
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REACHING FOR THE COSMOS: SPACE FUTURE OF

HEAT WAVES, WILDFIRES, DRYNESS, ETC. IS PAKIS-

CSS | CHRONICLES VOLUME 4 EDITION 12

Introduction The Current Energy Land-

only strained the economy heavy dependence on im-

2. Wind Energy: The Challenges and Opportu-

to financing are significant Pakistan can harness its

Despite these challenges,

collaborations and mutual benefits.

1. Space Race in the 21st Century

The modern digital world has reignited the space race in

Pakistan’s maiden lunar sat-

2.2. PakSat-MM1 to boost Internet connectivity

3. Future of Pakistan in Space exploration and development

3.1. Scientific advancement and innovation

First-ever images captured by Pakistan's lunar satellite iCube-Qamar showing the

3.2. Pak-China Strengthening Partnership via Space Cooperation

3.3. Satellite-based Communication services in Pakistan will enhance business

3.4. Pakistan Space-Based Augmentation System (Pak-SBAS)

Introduction serious risks to human

exerted by climatic Findings

melting. The summer of 2023 was Water scarcity is also an-

unt of imports of agricul- er problems not only breaks should be con-

SAUDI-IRAN RELATIONS POST-RAISI

CSS | CHRONICLES VOLUME 4 EDITION 12

Overview in mediating between

• Security Council unimplemented. flict, contributing to a hu-

Security Council was Global Role: Strengthen

Modi! Modi! Modi! Is he even going to be harsh on Paki-

Following a six-week-long democratic exercise, Naren-

President Ebrahim Raisi’s Saudi-Iran relations have

president as the news of until 2023 when the Chi-

CSS | CHRONICLES VOLUME 4 EDITION 12

thing about the rise of the world—including electricity cheaper, people

ious round of Israeli-Pales- democracy And this was an election in

dangers of authoritarian- October 2023 executive projected to boost pro-

logies for fraud detection, community input, all of Of course, policymakers

try under authoritarian attitudes to democracy. inequality, lack of respon-

istan as cloudy as it is in of CPEC. What was, how- Liu Jianchao, Minister of

on forest floors also limits based patches into kitch-

CSS | CHRONICLES VOLUME 4 EDITION 12

PHILOSOPHICAL THOUGHTS OF IBN KHALDUN