Innovating Pakistan-Gulf Relations/Media Report/CPGS

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2 Table of Contents International seminar on Pak-Gulf ties in Islamabad (Saudi Gazzette)...3 Islamabad holds seminar today to explore security challenges (Arab News)...4 Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies Seminar in Islamabad (Al Riyadh)...6 Pakistan Gulf Relations Seminar Today (Urdu News)...8 Peace in the world is impossible without regional peace: Kaira (Urdu news)...9 CPGS delegation calls on President (Urdu News)...10 Zardari briefed on CPGS objectives (Arab News)...12 Pakistan Enjoys brotherly relations with Gulf (KNA) Pakistan s safety is world s safety, says minister (Yahoo News)...14 CIA and MI6 make deep inroads in Pakistan, says an ex-pakistani officer (Islam Times)...16 Seminar on Innovating Pakistan Gulf Relations Today (Pak Observer)...18 International Community needs to back Pakistan in fighting terrorism (Pak Observer)...19 No alternative except war, says Kaira (Pakistan Today)...20 Seminar on innovating Pakistan Gulf Ties today(daily Mail...21 CPGS to hold seminar on Pak-Gulf Relations today (The Pakistan Reporter)...22 Democratic forces to foil designs to derail system: Kaira (Pakistan Today)...24 All conspiracies against democracy to be foiled: Kaira (Daily Messenger)...25 Seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations (The Financial Daily)...26 Name of caretaker Prime Minister: no consultation prior to meeting all constitutional requirements, says Kaira (Bussiness Recorder)...27 Int l community needs to back Pakistan in fighting extremists: Kaira (LHR Times)...29 International community urged to rescue Pakistan from brinkmanship (Pakistan Tribune)...31 Express Roznaama

3 Name of caretaker Prime Minister: no consultation prior to meeting all constitutional requirements, says Kaira (Daily Dunya)...33 Nawa-e Waqt...34 CPGS team calls on president (The Nation)...35 Delegation of CPGS calls on President(Daily Mail)...36 CPGS A Gust of Fresh Air(Weekly Pulse)...37 Seminar on innovating Pakistan-Gulf relations on Thursday (APP)...40 Need stressed for revisiting Pak-Gulf relations for utilization of inherent potential (APP)...42 Delegation of CPGS calls on President (APP) A Delegation of CPGS calls on the President (PIDP)...46 Pakistan seeks international community support to deal with terrorism (DND)...47 West responsible for extremism in Pakistan: Kaira(DNA...49 Pakistan has no option but to win war on terror: Kaira (Dawn)...51 Democratic forces to foil conspiracies against democracy: Kaira (Khyber News)...53 Democratic forces to foil all conspiracies against democracy: Kaira (PPP)

4 International Media News Papers International seminar on Pak-Gulf ties in Islamabad 21 February, 2013 The Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS), a recently established premier international think tank, is holding its inaugural seminar titled Innovating Pakistan-Gulf Relations, at Marriott Hotel in Islamabad on Thursday. The seminar will be attended by leading politicians, renowned scholars, international energy experts, seasoned diplomats and serving and retired senior civilian and military leadership from various countries to deliberate upon vital contemporary and emerging traditional and nontraditional security challenges faced by Pakistan, Gulf region and the world at large. The seminar will involve formal launch of CPGS monograph series, which encapsulate a diverse range of important issues ranging from Pak-Gulf Relations: Past, Present and Future, the emerging dynamics of energy security of the Gulf region, Peaceful uses of nuclear technology and Afghanistan sans foreign troops and options for Pakistan. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, will deliver the key-note address. Others who will speak on the occasion will include Gen. (Retd.) Ehsan-ul-Haq, former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Maj. Gen. (retd.) Dr. Anwar Bin Majed Bin Anwar Eshki, Chairman Middle East Institute for Strategic and Legal Studies, Lt. Gen. (retd.) Agha Muhammad Umar Farooq, former president National Defence University, Faheem-Al-Hamid, managing editor, international, Okaz group of newspapers, Prof. Dr. Pervez Iqbal Cheema, Dean FCS, National Defence University, Tarek Mishkhes, Ambassador Arif Kamal, Tahir Sher Muhammad and Air Commodore (retd.) Khalid Iqbal

5 Islamabad holds seminar today to explore security challenges 21st February 2013 The Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS), a newly set up premier international think tank, is holding its inaugural seminar on Innovating Pakistan-Gulf Relations at Marriott Hotel in Islamabad today. This seminar being attended by leading politicians, scholars, international energy experts, seasoned diplomats and serving and retired senior civilian and military leadership from various countries is to deliberate upon vital contemporary and emerging traditional and non-traditional security challenges faced by Pakistan, Gulf region and the world at large. The day-long international seminar will involve formal launch of CPGS monograph series, which encapsulate a diverse range of important issues ranging from Pak-Gulf Relations: Past, Present and Future, The Emerging Dynamics of Energy Security of the Gulf Region, Peaceful uses of Nuclear Technology, and Afghanistan Sans Foreign Troops and Options for Pakistan. Its newly developed website will also be launched on this occasion, which provides latest and comprehensive information on both Pakistan and Gulf states related to a wide variety of topics ranging from trade, security, energy, employment, strategic issues, foreign policy and various other areas. The key-note address on this occasion will be delivered by Qamar Zaman Kaira, federal minister for information and broadcasting. Among the leading security experts who will speak on this occasion will include Gen (Retd.) Ehsan-ul-Haq, former chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee who is also the chairman, CPGS Advisory Board; Maj Gen. (Retd.) Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki, chairman, Middle East Institute for Strategic and Legal Studies; Lt. Gen (Retd.) Agha Muhammad Umar Farooq; former president, National Defence University; Mr. Faheem Al-Hamid, assistant editor in chief, Okaz group of newspapers, Jeddah; Prof. Dr. Pervez Iqbal Cheema, dean FCS, National Defence University; Mr. Tarek Mishkhes, editor in chief, Urdu News, Jeddah; Ambassador Arif Kamal, Tahir Sher Muhammad and Air Commodore (Retd.) Khalid Iqbal. CPGS aims to be a leading think tank, toward providing creative ideas, dynamic solutions and realistic and timely policy input to the decision makers in order to promote a prosperous, peaceful and stable region and a secure inter-dependent world on the basis of common interests between Pakistan and its friendly Gulf states, with strong bonds based on common history, cultural, faith, mutual respect and understanding, through relevant, substantive and timely intellectual discourse. 5

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14 News Wire Pakistan s safety is world s safety, says minister Pakistan s Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Qamar Zaman Kaira, yesterday said, Safety of Pakistan is the safety of this region and also the safety of the world. In his keynote address at the launching of Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS), a think tank, here, Kaira said, Unless there is peace and stability in this region, we believe, peace and stability is not possible in the world. The country, which is the biggest victim of terrorism, is being blamed for harbouring terrorism, which is unfortunate, and our perspective is not being portrayed properly, the minister observed. Welcoming the establishment of the CPGS initiative as a fresh breeze of air, in its inaugural seminar Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations, the chief guest said: With these platforms we ll be able to succeed in giving the proper narrative and project our perspective. He was all praise for CPGS President Sehar Kamran: Senator Kamran has taken the initiative which is very important in the strategic, economic, and political and diplomatic relations with the Gulf countries and Pakistan. The chairman, advisory board of the CPGS, General (Retd) Ehsan-ul-Haq, termed the launching of the think tank as a long overdue initiative. Stressing the need to develop structure and initiate dialogue, and The former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Ehsan, said: I m confident that the CPGS would effectively advance the common goals. Addressing the seminar, member advisory board of the CPGS and Chairman Middle East Center for Strategic and Legal Studies, Major General (Retd) Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki said: The US is strong not because of weapons, but due to its strategic centres. The seminar was attended by diplomats, intellectuals, scholars, former top brass, students and the civil society members. In his concluding remarks editor-in-chief, Urdu News, Saudi Arabia, Tarek Mishkhes remarked: Creation of the CPGS is a step in the right direction and was needed much before. 14

15 Emphasizing the importance of research and dialogue, Mishkhes said it should be the beginning for creating a network of think tanks in the region to provide a road map for our leaderships for our future. Spread into several sessions, the seminar had its first session moderated by Lt. Gen (retd) Agha Muhammad Umar Farooq, and Faheem Al Hamid, assistant editor-in-chief, Okaz newspaper. The paper on The emerging Dynamics of energy Security of the Gulf Region: Prospects and Challenges was presented by Tahir Sher Muhammad while Air Commodore (retd) Khalid Iqbal spoke on Afghanistan Sans Foreign Troops and Options for Pakistan. The second working session was conducted by Gen. Eshki and Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema, Dean Faculty of Contemporary of Studies at the National Defence University (NDU). Ambassador Arif Kamal spoke about Pak-Gulf Relations: Past, Present and Future. Syed Shaukat Hasan, director, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission made a presentation on The Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy: Pakistan s Experience. 15

16 CIA and MI6 make deep inroads in Pakistan, says an ex-pakistani officer 25 February 2013 A former top officer of Pakistan s Air Force warned foreign intelligence agencies -- CIA, FBI and MI-6 -- had already made deep inroads throughout Pakistan governmental institutions and non government entities such as think tanks and the media. Speaking on, Afghanistan Without Foreign Troops and Options for Pakistan at a seminar in Islamabad, retired Air Commodore, Khalid Iqbal added, RAW and Black Water category organization had also established networks across Pakistan troubled tribal regions. The seminar which was arranged by the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies saw the attendance of a large number of political experts and scholars. Khalid Iqbal noted a large part of Pakistan s Army, paramilitary forces and police have got deeply embroiled in fighting its own people, while precious military resources were being wasted out in a futile war against terror. "Pro-American elements are enjoying strong influence in Pakistan and foreign funded NGOs are giving a helping hand to the USA in achieving its objectives," he explained. The Retired Pakistani officer added that U.S funded print and electronic media people are providing full assistance to India-US-Western media onslaught to harm the reputation of Pakistan, its army and institutions like the ISI. He emphasized that although, the U.S had failed to win its war in Afghanistan, and it has succeeded in achieving most of the objectives it had called out against Pakistan. He pointed out that instead of saying thanks to Pakistan for outstanding helps; both the United Stated and Afghanistan have persistently blamed Pakistan for its short-comings and labelled it an unreliable partner in the drive to bring stability back to the region. Air Commodore Retired Khalid Iqbal stressed, "If the U.S desisted from applying direct military strategies against Islamabad by fear of the country nuclear fire power capacity. 16

17 He went on saying that in the domain of indirect strategy, the U.S and its strategic partners embarked upon a well-thought out plan to gradually weaken Pakistan and its institutions politically, socially, economically and militarily to such an extent that it will become powerless and either voluntarily hands over the keys to its nuclear arsenal in return for aid or will become so paralytic it will be unable to retaliate when its nuclear arsenal is attacked. 17

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20 No alternative except war, says Kaira 21 st February 2013 Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira has called upon the international community to extend full support to Pakistan for the eradication of extremism and terrorism. Addressing a seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations here on Thursday he said we not only need the economic but also moral support and patience from the world to fight the extremist mindset. The Minister said we want to fight this war for the future of the region and the entire world. We have no option but to win this war. He called upon all political parties to get united to root out this menace for bringing peace in the society. 20

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22 CPGS to hold seminar on Pak-Gulf Relations today 21st February 2013 ISLAMABAD The Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS), a newly-setup premier international Think Tank is holding its inaugural seminar titled Innovating Pakistan-Gulf Relations today (Thursday). In this Seminar Qamar Zaman Kaira as the keynote speaker has a vision to contribute towards regional and international peace, harmony and security through sustainable intellectual discourse on all matters, which have impact on lives of inhabitant of this region and the world at large. The day-long international seminar will involve formal launch of CPGS Monograph series, which encapsulates, a diverse range of important issues ranging from Pak-Gulf Relations: Past, Present and Future, The Emerging Dynamics of Energy Security of the Gulf Region, Peaceful uses of Nuclear Technology and Afghanistan Sans Foreign Troops and Options for Pakistan. Its newly developed website will also be launched on this occasion, which provides latest and comprehensive information on both Pakistan and Gulf states related to a wide variety of topics ranging from trade, security, energy, employment, strategic issues, foreign policy and various other areas. The seminar will be attended by, renowned scholars from Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, international energy experts, seasoned diplomats and serving and retired senior civilian and military leadership from various countries to deliberate upon vital contemporary and emerging traditional and non-traditional security challenges faced by Pakistan, Gulf region and the world at large. Besides General (R) Ehasan ul-haq, former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chairman Advisory Board of the CPGS, the speakers include: Tahir Sher Muhammad; Air Commodore (R) Khalid Iqbal and Tanvir Ahmed Khan. The two working sessions of the seminar will be moderated by Lt. Gen. (R) Agha Muhammad Umer Farooq, former President of the National Defence University (NDU) and Abdul Aziz Sager. The second session would be conducted by Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki and Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the CPGS and its partners in the Middle East and Gulf will be inked, and its website and monographs will also be launched on the occasion. Founded by Senator Sehar Kamran, a renowned educationist, CPGS aims to be a leading think tank, which generates creative ideas, dynamic solutions, and realistic and timely policy input for the decision makers, in order to promote a prosperous, peaceful and stable region and a secure inter-dependent world on the basis of common interests between Pakistan and its friendly Gulf states. It also aspires to strengthen international bonds based on common history, 22

23 cultural, faith, mutual respect and understanding, through relevant, sustainable, substantive and timely intellectual discourse. 23

24 Democratic forces to foil designs to derail system: Kaira Thursday, 21 Feb 2013 ISLAMABAD - Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira on Thursday said conspiracies against democracy were not something new, but the democratic forces would foil all such efforts to derail the system. Talking to reporters after attending a seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations, he said, "Let me assure you that elections will be held in the country as per schedule and no undemocratic change will ever come in Pakistan," he said. To a question, he said all the organs of the state were part of the government and investigation will be held to check why no appropriate action was taken when intelligence agencies had warned against a possible attack on Shias in Quetta. He, however, said that as the matter was sub judice he could not speak more on the matter. To another question, he said that the leadership of Pakistan People s Party had tried to end the politics of confrontation and it would be unfortunate if the approach of Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan prevailed and the PML-N did not hold consultations with the PM to build consensus on a caretaker set-up. He said that the role of caretaker prime minister would be very limited and he would not be able to make decisions about the future of the country. About the consultations on the name of the caretaker PM, he said that constitution would be followed in this regard and a name would be finalised at an appropriate time. To a question about end of governor s rule in Balochistan, he said the decision would be made after consultation with all stakeholders. 24

25 All conspiracies against democracy to be foiled: Kaira 21 st February 2013 Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira has said all the conspiracies against the democracy will be foiled. Talking to media here on Thursday Kaira said Pakistan People s Party believes in change only through the ballot. He said caretaker setup will be installed in consensus and after consultation with the political parties. He said responsibility of the caretaker prime minister will be to extend support to the election commission in the conduct of free fair and transparent elections. Earlier addressing a seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations Qamar Zaman Kaira called upon the international community to extend full support to Pakistan for the eradication of extremism and terrorism. He said we not only need the economic but also moral support and patience from the world to fight the extremist mindset. The Minister said we want to fight this war for the future of the region and the entire world. We have no option but to win this war. He called upon all political parties to get united to root out this menace for bringing peace in the society. 25

26 Seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations 21 st February 2013 Islamabad: The Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS) is organizing a seminar titled as "Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations" today (Thursday) here. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira will be Chief Guest at inaugural session while Ambassadors and Guests/experts from Gulf Countries Advisory Board will be Guests of Honor at the Concluding Session CPGS is a new organization with a highly professional and diverse Board of Directors but a common passion and an Advisory Board, consisting of outstanding personalities from Pakistan and Gulf Countries, is ready for formal launch. For this purpose, it is holding a Seminar wherein important public opinion shapers and think tank heads from Gulf Countries and leading security, energy and defence experts from Pakistan will speak and share ideas on important international and regional issues. Our maiden Monographs focusing on vital international, regional and national issues will also be presented and discussed at this Seminar. According to CPGS President Senator Sehar Kamran, this initiative and the presence of scholars and experts from Pakistan and Gulf countries at this event will not only enrich the intellectual discourse but also contribute towards developing mutually-beneficial long-term institutional relations between National Defense University (NDU) and CPGS. 26

27 Name of caretaker Prime Minister: no consultation prior to meeting all constitutional requirements, says Kaira February 22, 2013 Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira categorically said on Thursday that consultation on the appointment of caretaker Prime Minister would not commence prior to meeting all the constitutional requirements. "The PPP government will not start negotiation with Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on the name of the caretaker PM till the completion of constitutional requirements. The constitutional path will be followed in this regard and caretaker premier name will be finalised at an appropriate time. The role of caretaker prime minister will be very limited and he will not be able to make decisions about the future of the country," he said. Talking to media persons after attending a seminar on "Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations" here on Thursday, Kaira said elections would be held in the country as per schedule and no undemocratic change would ever come in Pakistan. Kaira said that conspiracies against democracy were not something new but the democratic forces would foil all such efforts. Replying to a question, he said leadership of Pakistan People Party had tried its level best to end the politics of confrontation and it would be unfortunate if the approach of Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan prevailed. He said PML-N did not hold direct consultations with the Prime Minister for creating consensus on caretaker set-up. To another question, Kaira said that all the organs of the state were part of the government and investigation would be held to check why no appropriate action was taken when intelligence agencies had warned against a possible attack on Hazara community. However, he said that as the matter was sub-judice he could not speak on the matter further. About the lifting of governor rule in Balochistan, he said the decision would be made after consultation with all the stakeholders. Earlier, speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the seminar, Kaira urged the international community to help liberal democratic forces in Pakistan as democracy was the only solution to all the problems being faced by the country. The world must support the democratic forces in Pakistan, he maintained. 27

28 Kaira said Pakistan was geo-politically important but at the same time it was facing multiple challenges, and most of them were imposed on Pakistan by the international community. "Today, when the world wants us to act for the eradication of extremism, we tell them that the western powers used the same extremist elements for achievement of their own designs," Kaira said. "Even today, when we are fighting terrorism, the West has only come to our help when this menace has affected them," he said, adding the extremist mindset was present in every corner of the country, which should be defeated. While praising relationship between Pakistan and Gulf countries, Kaira said the relationship was rooted in history and the Gulf States had always stood by Pakistan in difficult times. 28

29 Int l community needs to back Pakistan in fighting extremists: Kaira Published: February 22, 2013 ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira on Thursday urged the international community to help liberal democratic forces in fighting extremists. Speaking as a chief guest at the inaugural session of seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations, Kaira said federal democracy was necessary for Pakistan and if any effort to derail it would endanger its survival. He said peace and stability in Pakistan and Afghanistan and the need to prevent spread of terrorism was not only in the interest of their people but also that of the whole region and the world. The minister criticized the Western countries for supporting dictatorial rules in Pakistan in the past which served the interests of super powers. He said democracy was the only solution to problems of the country and the world should support the democratic forces. 29

30 About war on terror, Kaira said Pakistan not only needed the economic support but moral backing to win it. He urged the West to support democracy, which was not allowed to work here in the past and they were also to be blamed for that. He said that the relations between the Gulf states and Pakistan were rooted in history and common faith. The Gulf States have always stood by Pakistan in difficult times, he added. He said that Pakistan was located at a geo-politically important location but at the same time it was facing multiple challenges. Most of them were imposed on Pakistan by the international community. Kaira said that Pakistan and Gulf states enjoyed brotherly and spiritual relations. However, common faith is not the only factor in the international relations, rather it is the economic, security and political interest which mattered, he added. He said Pakistan had been traditionally a very tolerant society till 1970s but it was intentionally transformed into an extremist one by the international powers, with the connivance of the then dictators to achieve their own agenda. Today, when the world wants us to act for the eradication of extremism, we tell them that it was the western powers that used the same extremist elements for achievement of their own designs, Kaira said. Even today, when we are fighting terrorism, the West has only come to our help when this menace has affected them, he added. He said the extremist mindset was present in every corner of the country, which should be defeated transform the minds of people. Other speakers at the inaugural session included Gen (retd) Ehsanul Haq, former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Maj Gen (retd) Dr Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki, Chairman Middle East Centre for Strategic and Legal Studies, and President Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies Senator Sehar Kamran. 30

31 International community urged to rescue Pakistan from brinkmanship February 22nd, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira on Thursday urged the international community to rescue Pakistan from brinkmanship. The international community should come forward to help Pakistan tackle a multitude of crises it is facing currently, as the stability of Pakistan is not only pivotal for peace in the region but also for the whole world. He said this while speaking at the launching ceremony of the think tank- Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS) - at a local hotel. Kaira praised CPGS President Senator Sehar Kamran for taking the initiative for such a think tank, saying it will help send our narrative to gulf countries and vice versa. Pakistan is the biggest victim of terrorism and is being blamed for harbouring terrorism, which is unfortunate, and much of this has been imposed on us, we did not create it, the minister said. When Russians invaded Afghanistan, we were used as a proxy by western powers. They left the land, leaving a trail of destruction behind them, he said. This is the time for the same powers to come forward to rescue Pakistan, Kaira said. Who funded madrassas of Pakistan at that time to use them for their proxy war? he asked, adding; Now we need the support of the same community to fight against the mindset, nurtured by them. Earlier, Chairman Advisory Board of the CPGS, General (retd) Ehsanul Haq, termed the launching of the think tank a long overdue initiative. I am confident that it would effectively advance the common goals. Member advisory board of the CPGS and Chairman Middle East Centre for Strategic and Legal Studies, Major-Gen (retd) Dr Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki said that the US was strong not because of weapons, but due to its strategic centres. 31

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37 CPGS a gust of fresh air March 01, 2013 In the emerging regional and international scenario where Pakistan and Gulf Studies take the centre stage, the emergence of a new think tank Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies with the motto Innovating Future is seen as a gust of fresh breeze. Innovation has always been the core value of the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies, commented Senator Sehar Kamran, President of the CPGS, on the emerging think tank as a trusted source of independent and expert knowledge. The CPGS, which is being launched Thursday here at the Marriott, with Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira as the keynote speaker, has a vision to contribute towards regional and international peace, harmony and security through sustainable intellectual discourse on all matters, which have impact on the life of the inhabitants of this region and the world at large. Distinguished civil, military, and academic leaders, intellectuals, scholars and diplomats from Pakistan and the Middle East and Gulf region will attend the Thursday s inaugural seminar Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations. It is also being participated by three distinguished personalities of the Middle East: Major General (R) Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki, Chairman Middle East Centre for Strategic and Legal Studies; Faheem Al Hamid, Assistant Editor-in-Chief Okaz Arabic and Saudi Gazette; and Tarek Mishkhas, Editor-in-Chief daily Urdu News. Besides General (R) Ehsan-ul-Haq, former chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chairman Advisory Board of the CPGS, the speakers include Tahir Sher Muhammad, Air Commodore (R) Khalid Iqbal and Ambassador Arif Kamal. The two working sessions of the seminar will be moderated by Lt. Gen. (R) Agha Muhammad Umer Farooq, former President of the National Defence University (NDU), and Abdul Aziz Sager. The second session would be conducted by Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki and Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the CPGS and its partners in the Middle East and Gulf will be inked, and a website and monographs will also be launched on the occasion. Talking about the objective o f the CPGS, Senator Sehar who is decorated with Tamgha-e- Imtiaz for her services, said: We aim at innovating a future in which security, stability and prosperity would prevail through a robust relationship between Pakistan and the countries of the Gulf region and beyond. For this, we undertake studies, discussions, research and analyses 37

38 based on all available resources with a view to formulating short, medium, and long term policies on vital internal and external issues. The President of the CPGS said: We are committed to providing analysis that is both actionable and effective, adding: Our primary areas of concentration is devoted to enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and the countries of Gulf region by assisting the policy makers with research and analysis based on facts and regional realities. The advisory board of the CPGS, headed by Gen (R) Ehsan-ul-Haq, includes Dr. Abdul Aziz Sager, Chairman Gulf Research Centre and Gulf Research Foundation; Major Gen. (R) Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki; Faheem Al Hamid; Prof. Tim Niblock, VP European Association for Middle Eastern Studies and Vice Chair of the UK Council for Area Studies Association; former Pakistani Foreign Secretary Tanvir Ahmed Khan, and Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema, Dean Faculty of Contemporary Studies at the National Defence University, Islamabad. The CPGS is energized by the active support of its SVP Lt. Gen (R) Agha Muhammad Umer Farooq, VP Malik Amjad Pervez, Special Secretary to the Senate of Pakistan; Syed Muhammad Ali; Rizwan-ul-Haq Mahmood, Dr. Zaheer Ahmed Babar and Asfa Khan. Welcoming the establishment of the CPGS initiative as a fresh breeze of air, in its inaugural seminar Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations, the chief guest said: With these platforms we ll be able to succeed in giving the proper narrative and project our perspective. It is indeed the vehicle of our vision and a pace-setter for intellectual pursuits that we promise in this regard, President CPGS said while elaborating the aims and objectives of the think tank as to promote regional harmony, global peace, security and stability by making substantive intellectual, academic and diplomatic contributions. General (R) Ehsan-ul-Haq termed the launching of the think tank a long overdue initiative. Stressing the need to develop structure and initiate dialogue, he said: I m confident that it (the CPGS) would effectively advance the common goals. Addressing the seminar, Major General (R) Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki said: The US is strong not because of weapons, but due to its strategic centres. Dr. Eshki enlisted human resource, religion and geography that are reinforced by culture and civilization as important factors in relations between the two blocks of Gulf countries and Pakistan, which presents exceptional opportunities for all stakeholders. The two interactive working sessions in the seminar initiated an academic debate on the challenges confronted by the region, while emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peace. The seminar was attended by diplomats, intellectuals, scholars, former top brass, students and the civil society members. The first session was moderated by Lt. Gen (R) Agha Muhammad Umar Farooq, SVP of CPGS, and Faheem Al Hamid, Assistant Editor-in-Chief Okaz Arabic and Saudi Gazette. The paper on The emerging Dynamics of energy Security of the Gulf Region: Prospects and Challenges was presented by Tahir Sher Muhammad while Air Commodore (R) Khalid Iqbal spoke on Afghanistan Sans Foreign Troops and Options for Pakistan. 38

39 The second working session was conducted by General Eshki and Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema, Dean Faculty of Contemporary of Studies at the National Defence University (NDU). Ambassador Arif Kamal spoke about Pak-Gulf Relations: Past, Present and Future. Syed Shaukat Hasan, Director, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) made a presentation on the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy: Pakistan s Experience as well. In his concluding remarks Editor-in-Chief Urdu News, Saudi Arabia, Tarek Mishkhas remarked: Creation of the CPGS is a step in the right direction and was needed much before. Emphasizing the importance of research and dialogue, Mishkhas said it should be the beginning for creating a net of think tanks in the region to provide a road map for our leaderships for our future. 39

40 News Agency Seminar on innovating Pakistan-Gulf relations on Thursday 20 th February 2013 The Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS), a newly-set up international think-tank, will hold its inaugural seminar titled Innovating Pakistan-Gulf Relations here on Thursday. The seminar will be attended by leading politicians, renowned scholars, international energy experts, seasoned diplomats and serving and retired senior civilian and military leadership from various countries to deliberate upon vital contemporary and emerging traditional and non-traditional security challenges faced by Pakistan, Gulf region and the world at large. The key-note address on this occasion will be delivered by Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira. The day-long international seminar will involve formal launch of CPGS monograph series, which encapsulate a diverse range of important issues ranging from Pak-Gulf relations: past, present and future, the emerging dynamics of energy security of the Gulf region, peaceful uses of nuclear technology and Afghanistan sans foreign troops and options for Pakistan. Its newly developed website will also be launched on this occasion, which will provide the latest and comprehensive information on both Pakistan and Gulf states, related to a wide variety of topics ranging from trade, security, energy, employment, strategic issues, foreign policy and various other areas. Among the leading security experts, who will speak at the seminar, will include Gen (retd) Ehsan-ul-Haq, former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee who is also the Chairman CPGS Advisory Board, Maj Gen (retd) Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki, Chairman Middle East Institute for Strategic and Legal Studies, Lt Gen (retd) Agha Muhammad Umar Farooq, former President National Defence University, Faheem-Al-Hamid, Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Okaz Group of newspapers, Prof. Dr. Pervez Iqbal Cheema, Dean FCS, National Defence University, Tarek Mishkhes, Ambassador Arif Kamal, Tahir Sher Muhammad and Air Commodore (Retd.) Khalid Iqbal. 40

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42 Need stressed for revisiting Pak-Gulf relations for utilization of inherent potential 22 nd February 2013 The relationship between Pakistan and the Gulf states presents a composite view of shared experience, aspirations, interests and of common destiny. It is therefore important to revisit our strengths and engage in a wholesome approach to fuller utilization of our inherent potential. This was stated by Senator Sehar Kamran, President Centre for Pakistan Gulf Studies while delivering her concluding remarks at the end of inaugural seminar Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations organised by the newly established think-tank here. Senator Sehar Kamran said that the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies indeed the vehicle of a new vision and a pace-setter for intellectual pursuits. She said that objective of the institution was to promote regional harmony, global peace, security and stability by making substantive intellectual, academic and diplomatic contributions. She said that the assembly of intellectuals and policy makers has made a significant contribution towards the development of thought on critical issues. This has marked only the beginning of a process but with a resolve to engage ourselves with greater challenges in the scholastic arena, she said. The Gulf and Pakistan remain on high pedestal from the geo-strategic perspective in view of its images as the life-line of the world economy and relevance for peace and progress in a transregional setting, she said adding that it was therefore important to realize that search for stability is very much contingent upon the interplay of the region-based interests with that of the predominant extra-regional stakeholders. Chairman Advisory Board of the CPGS, General (retd) Ehsan-ul-Haq, and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee termed the launching of the think tank as a long overdue initiative. Stressing the need to develop structure and initiate dialogue, General Ehsan said he was confident that it would effectively advance the common goals. Addressing the seminar, member advisory board of the CPGS and Chairman Middle East Center for Strategic and Legal Studies, Major General Dr. Anwar bin Majed bin Anwar Eshki said: The US is strong not because of weapons, but due to its strategic centers. Dr. Eshki enlisted human resource, religion and geography that are reinforced by culture and civilization as important factors in relations between the two blocks of Gulf countries and 42

43 Pakistan, which presents exceptional opportunities for all stakeholders. The two interactive working sessions in the seminar initiated an academic debate on the challenges confronted by the region, while emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peace. The seminar was attended by diplomats, intellectuals, scholars, former top brass, students and the civil society members. The first session was moderated by Lt. Gen (R) Agha Muhammad Umar Farooq, SVP of CPGS, and Faheem Al Hamid, Assistant Editor-in-Chief Okaz Arabic and Saudi Gazette. The paper on The emerging Dynamics of energy Security of the Gulf Region: Prospects and Challenges was presented by Tahir Sher Muhammad while Air Commodore (R) Khalid Iqbal spoke on Afghanistan Sans Foreign Troops and Options for Pakistan. The second working session was conducted by General Eshki and Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema, Dean Faculty of Contemporary of Studies at the National Defense University (NDU). Ambassador Arif Kamal spoke about Pak-Gulf Relations: Past, Present and Future. Mr. Syed Shaukat Hasan, Director, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) made a presentation on the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy: Pakistan s Experience as well. In his concluding remarks Editor-in-Chief Urdu News, Saudi Arabia, Tarek Mishkhas remarked, Creation of the CPGS is a step in the right direction and was needed much before. Emphasizing the importance of research and dialogue, Mishkhas said it should be the beginning for creating a net of think tanks in the region to provide a road map for our leadership for our future. 43

44 Delegation of CPGS calls on President 22 nd February, 2013, A delegation of Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS) headed by its President Senator Sehar Kamran called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-Sadr on Friday. The delegation comprised of Maj Gen (R) Dr Anwar Eshki Chairman Middle East Strategic Centre, Tarek Mishkhes Editor-in-Chief, Daily Arab News and Fahim Al Hamid Editor in Chief, Okaz Group of Newspapers. Secretary General to the President M. Salman Faruqui, Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar, Foreign Secretary Jalil Abbas Jilani, and Asif Durrani Additional Secretary Foreign Affairs, were also present during the meeting. Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar while briefing about the meeting said that Senator Sehar Kamran briefed the President about the aims and objectives for which the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies has been set up and various activities to be undertaken from this platform. She informed the President the CPGS was a non-partisan platform established with a vision to contribute towards regional and international peace, harmony and security through sustainable intellectual discourse on matter which impact the lives of the inhabitants of the region. She said that the Centre endeavours to encourage discussions among the national leaders, intellectuals and academicians and create better understanding of the issues facing the region through variety of activities. Senator Sehar Kamran also briefed the President about the deliberations during a Seminar organized by the CPGS yesterday which was attended by eminent personalities, members of the diplomatic community, intellectuals and others. Spokesperson said that the President appreciated the efforts of Senator Sehar Kamran for setting up CPGS to undertake analytical studies on various issues facing the region thus creating greater understanding of the issues and bringing the people of the region further closer to work together in order to overcome the common issues and challenges. 44

45 The delegation thanked the President for meeting them. 45

46 PR No. 180 A DELEGATION OF CPGS CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT February 22, 2013 A delegation of Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS) headed by its President Senator Sehar Kamran called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-Sadr today. The delegation comprised of Maj Gen Dr Anwar Eshki Chairman Middle East Strategic Centre, Mr Tarek Mishkhes Editor-in-Chief, Daily Arab News and Mr. Fahim Al Hamid Editor in Chief, Okaz Group of News papers. Secretary General to the President Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar, Foreign Secretary Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, and Mr. Asif Durrani Additional Secretary Foreign Affairs, were also present during the meeting. Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar while briefing about the meeting said that Senator Sehar Kamran briefed the President about the aims and objectives for which the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies has been set up and various activities to be undertaken from this platform. She informed the President the CPGS was a non-partisan platform established with a vision to contribute towards regional and international peace, harmony and security through sustainable intellectual discourse on matter which impact the lives of the inhabitants of the region. She said that the Centre endeavours to encourage discussions among the national leaders, intellectuals and academicians and create better understanding of the issues facing the region through variety of activities. Senator Sehar Kamran also briefed the President about the deliberations during a Seminar organized by the CPGS yesterday which was attended by eminent personalities, members of the diplomatic community, intellectuals and others. Spokesperson said that the President appreciated the efforts of Senator Sehar Kamran for setting up CPGS to undertake analytical studies on various issues facing the region thus creating greater understanding of the issues and bringing the people of the region further closer to work together in order to overcome the common issues and challenges. The delegation thanked the President for meeting them. 46

47 Pakistan seeks international community support to deal with terrorism 21 st February 2013 ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira has urged the international community to extend full support to Pakistan for the eradication of extremism and terrorism, Dispatch News Desk (DND) reported on Thursday. Addressing a seminar on Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations in Islamabad today, he said we not only need the economic but also moral support and patience from the world to fight the 47

48 extremist mindset. He said we want to fight this war for the future of the region and the entire world. We have no option but to win this war. Referring to the sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in the war against terrorism, Qamar Zaman Kaira said Pakistan is passing through a very difficult time of history. Pakistan has achieved some major success in this war but these elements continue to breed. These terrorists want to impose their agenda on the majority and we can only foil their designs with collective wisdom and action. The information minister said democracy is the only solution to fight terrorism and establish a tolerant society. All the political parties of Pakistan will have to stand united for success in this war. He said Pakistan believes in the dialogue process to address this issue. Meanwhile, he thanked the Gulf countries for standing by Pakistan at every hour of trial including natural calamities. Kaira further said the solution to all the problems lies only in democracy. He said there is a need to promote tolerance and patience in the society. The information minister said it is bad luck that country has been divided into political, regional and religious factions. He said we will have to make the country secure for the sake of our children. He said after the soviet intervention conditions had worsened in the region and the entire civilized world had supported our dictators. He said peaceful conditions in Pakistan and Afghanistan are in the best interest of the entire region. He urged the international community to cooperate us in fight against terrorism and extremism. He said Taliban want to impose their mindset on us, adding that Gulf States always helped Pakistan. 48

49 West responsible for extremism in Pakistan: Kaira 21 st February, 2013 Federal Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira said on Thursday Western countries were responsible for extremism in Pakistan therefore these countries should first keep in mined this reality before blaming Pakistan. He expressed these words while addressing as a key note speaker at a seminar arranged by Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies. The information minister further said all Western countries promoted jihadist elements and supported religious school in Pakistan in order to use them against Soviet Union. But when Soviet Union left Afghanistan, the Western countries left the region without doing anything about the monster they had created. And that monster, Kaira added, was now become a constant headache for all of us. He urged the Western world to help Pakistan overcome extremism so that this region could make progress. The information minister said, government was sincere in election process and every effort shall be made to ensure free and transparent elections. Welcoming the establishment of the CPGS initiative as a fresh breeze of air, in its inaugural seminar Innovating Pakistan and Gulf Relations, the chief guest said: With these platforms we ll be able to succeed in giving the proper narrative and project our perspective. It is indeed the vehicle of our vision and a pace-setter for intellectual pursuits that we promise in this regard, President CPGS said while elaborating the aims and objectives of the think tank as to promote regional harmony, global peace, security and stability by making substantive intellectual, academic and diplomatic contributions. The most effective means of developing comprehension and understanding is mutual dialogue, she stressed. We believe in the dialogue, and a federal Pakistan is the only option, Kaira said while stressing support from friendly countries not only in the economic sector, but moral and political spheres. He added: There is no option we have to win this war, if we fail it s not only us but the entire region would fail. Chairman Advisory Board of the CPGS, General (R) Ehsan-ul-Haq, and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee termed the launching of the think tank as a long overdue initiative. Stressing the need to develop structure and initiate dialogue, General Ehsan said: I m confident that it (the CPGS) would effectively advance the common goals. 49