Af-Pak and Bangladesh De/Cypher- 25 Dec, 2023

byAmogh Dev Rai (Director Research- ASIA), Priyanka Garodia, Aurko Chakrabarti and Bhupesh Upadhyay

16 minute read

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This research – based newsletter is a digital product from ASIA, a think tank @ SGT University. The board of ASIA is chaired by Prof. Najeeb H Jung. The board includes Prof. Indu Bhushan, Prof. Rajat M Nag, Prof. Sandhya Vasudevan, and Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal. The data used here is verfied, and sources double checked.

Af Pak Bangladesh Decypher

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Data Dive – Decypher

Carbon credits are issued to projects depending on the amount of carbon emissions avoided (emissions avoidance) or removed from the atmosphere (carbon removal). Each carbon credit represents one tonne of CO2 avoided or removed. Retiring *a carbon credit means that it has been used, and the carbon benefit it represents has been claimed by the business that purchased it and* *cannot be sold or traded again.*

Asia Headlines: Quick Recap

Philippine actions in South China Sea ‘extremely dangerous’: Chinese state media

*South China Sea, Photo by VCG Source: Global Times*

China’s state media accused the Philippines of repeatedly encroaching on its territory, spreading misinformation, and even conspiring with the US to provoke trouble.

Second North Korean nuclear reactor appears to be using fuel, IAEA says

According to the UN nuclear watchdog, North Korea’s second nuclear reactor appears to be operational, potentially producing plutonium for weapon production, which the agency considers “deeply regrettable.”

Japan-US ties stronger than ever, minister says amid US Steel scrutiny

Japan downplayed US concerns about Nippon Steel’s potential bid for US Steel, claiming that Japan-US ties are “stronger than ever” despite scrutiny over national security implications.

Documents Reveal Hidden Problems at Russia’s Nuclear Powerhouse

*Astravets Nuclear Power Plant Source: caspiannews*

Despite President Lukashenko’s claims of high safety standards, a new report details a rare resin contamination incident at the Astravets Nuclear Power Plant in February 2022, threatening critical systems and delaying the reactor’s launch by over a year.

Beijing records most hours of sub-zero temperatures in December since 1951

Several cities in the central Chinese province of Henan are facing a winter heating supply shortage following a cold wave that brought blizzards and temperatures near historic lows.

8 Chinese fighter jets detected crossing Taiwan Strait’s median line: Taipei

Taiwan’s defence ministry said on Sunday that it had detected eight Chinese fighter jets and one Chinese balloon crossing the Taiwan Strait in the previous 24 hours.

Taiwan says eight Chinese fighter jets crossed strait’s median line

Taiwan’s defence ministry said on Sunday that over the previous 24 hours it had detected eight Chinese fighter jets crossing over the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as well as one Chinese balloon.

Beijing breaks a seven-decade cold-weather record

Several cities in the central Chinese province of Henan are facing a winter heating supply crunch after a cold wave swept through a swathe of areas, bringing blizzards and sending temperatures to near historic lows.

South Asia’s Year in Review

*People wave Indian flags as they celebrate the successful lunar landing of Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the south pole of the moon in New Delhi on Aug. 23.* **Photo:** *ARUN SANKAR/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES*

In 2023, global events significantly influenced South Asia. Russia’s Ukraine conflict spurred regional inflation and Saudi-Iranian rapprochement offered new diplomatic options. India’s transnational trade corridor enhanced ties with Europe and the Middle East, while the Israel-Hamas conflict amplified security concerns in a region attuned to Middle Eastern stability. These international dynamics are set against critical local developments within South Asia itself; Foreign Policy brief has rounded four stories that shed light on the evolving landscape of South Asia.

India Lands on the Moon

In August, India became the fourth country to achieve a moon landing and the first to target the lunar south pole. This highlighted the nation’s arrival as a space contender, reflecting the advancements of its space agency since the 1960s. Concurrently, India’s global presence rose in 2023 as it undertook the G-20 presidency and hosted the Cricket World Cup. Nevertheless, the lunar feat underscored regional power imbalances and may heighten India’s space rivalry with China. Despite potential tensions, the mission could enhance India’s space ties with the U.S., bolstered by the Artemis Accords.

Pakistan Expels 1.7 Million Afghans

Pakistan’s expulsion of all undocumented immigrants, including 1.7 million Afghans, sparked a major humanitarian crisis. The move, justified by Islamabad as a security measure and a tactic to compel the Taliban to address anti-Pakistan terrorism, led to condemnation from the Taliban, which faced its own economic and humanitarian woes and struggled to absorb the influx. This action and the ensuing backlash underlined deepening tensions between the two countries, aggravated by a rise in terrorist attacks in Pakistan linked to militants based in Afghanistan.

This stood in contrast to another regional diplomatic storyline this year: India’s rapport with the Taliban grew, even as Afghan envoys from the prior government shut down their embassy in New Delhi, criticizing India’s inadequate backing. Shortly after, Taliban representatives assumed control of Afghanistan’s diplomatic operations in India.

U.S. Accuses India of Extrajudicial Killing Attempt

In November, U.S. officials disclosed an indictment of a disrupted plot by an Indian official to assassinate a Sikh activist in New York, casting a shadow over the U.S.-India partnership with concerns over extraterritorial crackdowns. In the broader context of South Asia in 2023, this event mirrored a disconcerting crackdown on political dissent, with Pakistan and Bangladesh detaining opposition members, a UN report chastising Sri Lanka for human rights breaches, and Afghanistan’s Taliban enforcing harsh restrictions on women, reflecting a regional downturn in democratic and human rights progress.

U.S. Tightens the Screws on Bangladesh Again

In May, the U.S. introduced visa restrictions to penalize those undermining Bangladesh’s election integrity before its January 7 polls. Enacted by September on undisclosed individuals, these were unique in South Asia outside of Afghanistan. Despite the U.S. focus on Bangladesh’s electoral freedom, its silence on Pakistan’s dissent suppression and India’s democratic erosion in 2023 highlighted Washington’s selective approach to democracy in the region. As Bangladesh’s elections approach, U.S. measures have yet to yield results; the opposition is boycotting the vote, engaging in blockades and violence in the wake of mass arrests of its leaders and supporters by the government.

The political and diplomatic landscape in South Asia remains complex, with tensions between various countries. As the year ends and South Asia prepares for elections and transitions, it is crucial for international actors to carefully navigate their relationships in the region.

Af-Pak De/Cypher

25 Dec, 2023

*Baloch protesters stage sit-in in chilly cold outside the National Press Club in Islamabad.* **Photo:** *BYC/X*

Monday

5.8 magnitude earthquake jolts Islamabad, other parts of Pakistan

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake followed by a 5.1 aftershock struck Islamabad and other parts of Pakistan on Monday, causing tremors and prompting people to evacuate buildings. Read more: Daily Pakistan

National Security: Government blocks foreign access to Pakistani passports permanently

To enhance national security, Pakistan’s caretaker government have permanently blocked Afghan and foreign access to Pakistani passports. Read more: Pakistan Today

Army chief embarks on charm offensive to woo diaspora

Pakistani army chief charmed influential Pakistani-Americans in Washington, urging them to invest back home and assuring security through a special council. Read more: Dawn

Pakistan delegation visits Xinjiang Muqam Art Theater

A Pakistani delegation recently visited the Xinjiang Muqam Art Theater in Urumqi, China, challenging Western narratives of oppression against Uyghur Muslims. Read more: Pakistan Today

Tuesday

Imran Khan, Asad Umar acquitted in May 25 violence case

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Asad Umar were acquitted in a case accusing them of inciting violence during a 2022 protest. Read more: Dawn

China-Pakistan Land Resources Institute launched in Jiangxi College of Applied Technology

The China-Pakistan Land Resources Institute was launched at Jiangxi College of Applied Technology, aiming to equip Pakistani professionals with advanced skills for future opportunities. Read more: Associated Press of Pakistan

Repatriation of illegal Afghans continues: over 438,000 return home

Over 438,000 irregular Afghans have returned home from Pakistan as part of an ongoing repatriation effort, with families making up a significant portion of those crossing the border. Read more: Pakistan Today

COAS, Centcom chief discuss cooperation in regional security matters

Pakistani army chief discussed regional security cooperation with US Central Command chief, focusing on training and enhancing interaction. This follows COAS’ visit to US officials for broader collaboration on counter-terrorism, defence, and regional issues like Kashmir. Read more: The Express Tribune

Wednesday

NAB files gifts reference against Imran, Bushra

The NAB has filed a reference against Imran Khan and his wife Bushra in the Toshakhana case, alleging undervalue invoicing for acquiring 58 state gifts. Read more: The Nation

LHC directs PEMRA to ensure freedom of speech

The Lahore High Court directed PEMRA to ensure unrestricted freedom of speech and avoid banning political leaders’ speeches, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections. Read more: The Express Tribune

Pakistan explores cooperation with China in field of artificial Intelligence

Dr. Yasar Ayaz, Director of Pakistan’s National Centre for Artificial Intelligence, visited China for two weeks to explore AI collaboration, aiming to strengthen collaboration between China and Pakistan in artificial intelligence. Read more: Pakistan Today

New era of Sino-Pak trade ties: First shipment of dried chillies sent to China

Pakistan has achieved a breakthrough in Sino-Pak trade with the inaugural dried chilli shipment to China, marking a new era in relations. Minister Gohar Ejaz aims for $20 billion in exports, emphasising quality standards and thanking Chinese counterparts for support. Read more: Business Recorder

Thursday

Pakistan arrests activists to stop them from protesting in Islamabad against extrajudicial killings

About 200 protesters began their nearly 1,600-kilometer (1,000-mile) convoy around Nov. 28. They planned to rally in the capital to draw attention to the death of Balaach Mola Bakhsh. The 24-year-old died in November while in police custody in Baluchistan province. Police say he was carrying explosives when he was arrested in November. Read more: Newsday

Intelligence agencies not allowed to eavesdrop, govt tells IHC

The Attorney General of Pakistan told the Islamabad High Court that no intelligence agency is allowed to eavesdrop, responding to a leaked conversation petition. Read more: Dawn

IHC rejects Imran Khan’s appeal to suspend Toshakhana verdict

The Islamabad High Court denied Imran Khan’s request to suspend the Toshakhana verdict, clarifying that while sentences can be suspended, verdicts cannot be changed as per the law. Read more: Business Recorder

Is Dawood Ibrahim hospitalised in Karachi? FO reveals facts

Pakistan’s Foreign Office dismissed Indian media reports that Dawood Ibrahim, a wanted individual, was hospitalised in Karachi due to poisoning. Read more: Daily Pakistan

China, Pakistan sign MoU on biodiversity conservation

China and Pakistan have signed an MoU for biodiversity conservation, emphasising community-level networks, awareness, and training on raptor biodiversity. Read more: Pakistan Today

Friday

President Alvi, PM Kakar express concern over police action against Baloch protesters

President Dr. Arif Alvi and caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar have expressed concern over the harsh police action against Baloch protesters in the federal capital who were demonstrating against enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings. Read more: Dawn

IHC clears Nisar Afzal in £60m UK case condemning NAB’s ‘fake case’

The Islamabad High Court has overturned freezing orders on the properties of British Pakistani businessman Nisar Ahmed Afzal, criticizing the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for its high-handedness and lack of evidence in a £60 million alleged Birmingham Mortgage fraud case initiated at the request of the UK’s National Crime Agency. Read more: Pakistan Today

Magnitude 4.4 earthquake hits Islamabad, Rawalpindi

A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding areas, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir, around 5:30 AM. While people experienced fear, there were no reported casualties or property damage. Read more: The Nation

Chinese intercropping tech tailored for Pakistan to reduce soybean imports

China’s intercropping technology is being applied in Pakistan to cut its $1 billion soybean import bill. Dr. Sajad Hussain suggests utilising existing sugarcane and maize cultivation areas to produce up to 2.7 million tons of soybeans through strip intercropping. Read more: Pakistan Today

Saturday

Imran Khan moves Supreme Court to have IHC ruling in Toshakhana case overturned

Imran Khan has appealed to the Supreme Court, challenging the Islamabad High Court’s ruling in the Toshakhana case, aiming to overturn his disqualification and participate in the upcoming elections. Read more: Daily Pakistan

Why are Baloch protesters being forcefully sent back, IHC asks police chief

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has questioned the police chief about the forceful repatriation of Baloch protesters, who faced police brutality during a demonstration against enforced disappearances. Read more: Dawn

Killing of labourers in South Waziristan sparks widespread protests

The murder of five labourers in an attack on a police station in South Waziristan has sparked widespread protests in Shakai, Wana, and Dera Ismail Khan. Read more: Pakistan Today

Sunday

Pakistan, Oman hold joint naval drill ‘Thamar Al Tayyib 2023’

Pakistan and Oman recently concluded their 11th edition of joint naval exercises, Thamar Al Tayyib 2023, in the Gulf of Oman, aimed at enhancing mutual learning and inter-operability between the two navies. Read more: Daily Pakistan

Anti-polio drive targets over 40m children to begin on Jan 8

Starting on January 8, Pakistan is launching a nationwide polio vaccination campaign across three phases, aiming to inoculate over 40 million children below the age of five. Read more: Daily National Courier

Electricity costs skyrocket by Rs 47 in 2023

Electricity costs in Pakistan surged by a historic Rs 47 in 2023, marking the most expensive year in the nation’s history. Read more: Pakistan Today

Green turtles fight to survive against Pakistan’s urban sprawl

Green turtles fight to survive against Pakistan’s urban sprawl the backdrop of the mega port city of Karachi, choked with traffic and construction, four green turtles emerge from the frothy Arabian Sea seeking a spot to lay their eggs. Read more: WN

Decypher Opinion

Bailing Imran and Shah Mehmood: By Syed Talat Hussain

Toxic politicians riding the tide of populism spreading chaos destroy generations and cut nations at the knee. Those who pander to them do no less. That is what the Cypher case was/is all about.

The peculiar instance of bail to Imran Khan and Shah Mahmoud Qureshi in the Cypher case tells you about the extent to which members of the judiciary can go in making themselves heard politically. I have always maintained that Imran and Shah Mehmood have both, knowingly, breached their oaths. This stance has been endorsed by Imran Khan’s principal secretary Azam Khan’s statement and also by the accounts of other senior officials who filled in the gaps of information during the case’s investigation.

But “leaking” was always the less serious part of the transgression. The Cypher’s public and private abuse attempted to crack the core of national stability. Both of them, their coterie, party leaders and their social media brigades spun a dangerous yarn of Pakistan’s military establishment being part of a US conspiracy. Funded, bankrolled, diplomatically endorsed, pushed, scripted, directed—various formulations were used — by the US to get rid of Imran Khan. Why? Because he said no to Washington’s demand for military bases (false); because they wanted to bring traitors to power (fiction); and because they wanted to turn Pakistan into US Ghulam/slave (hallucinations caused by I-Me-My Disorder).

Continue reading the full article here.

Video: Pakistan’s Imran Khan uses AI-crafted speech to call for votes from prison

AI enabled Imran Khan’s campaign from prison as his party, PTI, used a voice clone to deliver a four-minute speech on social media during a ‘virtual rally,’ overcoming internet disruptions that were seen as attempts to censor him.

View clip:

Fact of the Week!!!