PAKISTAN

MIRAMSHAH: A suspected US drone has crashed in North Waziristan, sources said Sunday.

The unmanned aircraft came down in Humzoni area of Datta Khel in North Warisitan bordering Afghanistan, sources said.

According to state TV, the drone was shot down while the tribesmen have also claimed that they fired down the pilotless aircraft.

Geo News’ senior correspondent, Rahimullah Yousufzai has reported that Humzoni area of Datta Khel is dominated by Taliban and where there have been over 14 drone strikes over the past few weeks.

MULTAN: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the government will foil every attempt aimed at jeopardizing the democracy.

Addressing a public gathering in Multan on Sunday, he said that the conspiracy to start a confrontation between the institutions would be thwarted, while all state organs would function in accordance with the Constitution.

“We will firmly hold our grip on the democracy and the constitution and will fully protect the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan,” he said.

He said the Army has its own role and that is to safeguard the country’s borders. The premier further said the army is successfully battling against the militants.

Gen (retd) Musharraf would often say that he would not let Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif to enter the country, but they both returned. And the one who has no place in the country is Musharraf himself, added Gilani.

The Prime Minister said that it is the government’s responsibility to solve the challenges facing the country.

“Had we boycotted the last general election, judiciary would not have been reinstated,” he said, adding that the government honored the pledge Benazir Bhutto had made about restoration of the deposed judges.

Benazir Bhutto had also convinced Mian Nawaz Sharif to contest the polls, he said.

CAIRO: Al-Qaida leader Osama Bin Laden issued a new audio message claiming responsibility for the Christmas day bombing attempt in Detroit and vowed further attacks. In a recording carried by the Al-Jazeera Arabic news channel, Bin Laden addressed President Barak Obama saying the attack was a message like that of Sept. 11 and more attacks against the U.S. would be forthcoming. "The message delivered to you through the plane of the heroic warrior .... Full Story

ISLAMABAD: The visiting US secretary of state Hillary Clinton Wednesday lauded Pakistan’s role in the war against terror, and said, “America wants to start a new era of friendship with Pakistan.”

"Pakistan is in the midst of an ongoing struggle against tenacious and brutal extremist groups who kill innocent people and terrorise communities," Clinton told a news conference along with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi following what she called a "barrage" of recent attacks.

The United States will stand shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan in its fight against "brutal extremist groups", visiting Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Wednesday after a massive bomb blast.

"This is our struggle as well and we commend the Pakistan military for their courageous fight and... (we) stand should to shoulder with the Pakistan people in our fight for peace and security," she said.

"We will give you the help that you need," the top US diplomat added.



Calling her visit to Pakistan as a vital one, she assured USA’s support to Pakistani forces in the fight against terrorism.

She said that USA and Pakistan are facing common security threat, thus war on terror is not only important for Pakistan, but it is also equally significant for USA.

US wants strong relations with Pakistan, the US secretary State said, adding, consensus was reached on Pak-US strategic dialogue during her meeting with Pakistani Foreign Foreign Minister.

She pointed out that Pakistani officials have raised the issue of energy crisis in every meeting. “US is cognizant of the fact that current energy crisis in Pakistan is affecting the industrial development in the country, posing a real threat to its economic growth.”

To overcome the energy crisis in Pakistan, the US serectary of state said USA is announcing an energy program for Pakistan under which help will be extended to Pakistan towards raising the power generation capacity of Tarbela dam.

Hillary Clinton said USA also intends to back Pakistan in the fields of education, infrastructure and health facilities. She emphasized that both the nations are already cooperating with each other in various fields. “US also wants to cooperate with Pakistan for its industrial sector.”

She stressed the significance of furthering Pak-US strategic dialogue. Both the countries have agreed on mutual cooperation and appreciation.

“The US wants to see a responsible democratic government in Pakistan, as well as economic progress in the country,” she hoped, adding “we can build an ideal future for the coming generations of both the countries.”

PESHAWAR: Senior NWFP Minister Bashir Ahmed Bilour said we will bring the terrorists to the justice they deserve.

Talking to newsmen while visiting the blast spot at Chowk Yadgar Mina Bazaar, Peshawar today, he denied that the incident took place due to the security lapses.

‘Terrorists may reach anywhere, if they can enter GHQ.’

He observed, ‘How and which Islam is served by taking innocent lives in suicide blasts.’

‘Army might be called in the city if need arises’, Bilour answered a question.

PESHAWAR: NWFP senior minister Bashir Ahmed Bilour has confirmed the killing of 50 people in the explosion occurred in Peshawar.

According to reports, more then 100 people sustained injures as causalities feared to be increased. The injured have been shifted to Lady Reading Hospital and other hospitals where emergency has been announced. The children and women are also among the wounded. Some of the injured reported in a critical condition. The administration of Lady Reading Hospital has appealed for blood donation. The blast shattered windowpanes of nearby buildings and created panic among the people.

Meanwhile, a building has been collapsed during rescue operation. Police have cordoned off the area as rescue operation is on the blast site.

President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed his heartfelt grief over the loss of innocent lives in Peshawar bomb blast, while denouncing the incident, Prime Minister (PM) Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani directed concerned officials to provide the injured with all the possible medical relief. NWFP Chief Minister (CM), Amir Hyder Khan Hoti has ordered inquiry of the blast.

Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) Quaid Mian Nawaz Sharif, CM Punjab Shehbaz Sharif, Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Quaid Altaf Hussain, Governor Punjab Salman Taseer, Federal Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Qamar Zaman Kaira, NWFP CM Amir Hyder Hoti, Governor NWFP Owais Ahmed Ghani, CM Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Governor Sindh Dr Ishrat-ul-Ibad, CM Balochistan Aslam Raisani, Governor Balochistan Zulfiqar Magsi, Federal Ministers Farooq Sattar and Babar Ghauri, Amir Jamaat-e-Islami Syed Munawar Hassan and Qazi Husain Ahmed have strongly condemned the blast.

ISLAMABAD: Lauding the irreparable sacrifices laid down by the people of Pakistan in way of curbing terrorism, the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said, “Pakistanis have rendered extraordinary sacrifices to stamp out extremism”, Geo news reported on Wednesday.

This Hillary Clinton said talking to media after her arrival here in Pakistan on three-day official visit.

According to sources, she said, “My visit is aimed at sending message of all-out support for Pakistani government from Obama administration”.

She also commended Pakistan army’s ongoing operation against Taliban in tribal South Waziristan Agency (SWA), applauding the joint resolve of Pakistan’s civil and military leadership to combat terrorism in restive Waziristan Agency.

“I will seek complete information relating to army operation in SWA during my stay here in Islamabad and will assure Pakistan government of Obama administration’s all-out support in all sectors including military offensive in tribal areas, Afghan war and on economy”, she told reporters

Clinton said she was keen to bolster the civilian government, whose relations with the powerful military have been fraught, following on from a massive 7.5 bilion dollar non-military aid package already signed into law.

"We will be making some announcements about some of the investments we are making with Pakistan on the civilian side," she added.

ISLAMABAD: Membership of 21 Members of the National Assembly and 47 Members of the Provincial Assemblies including 32 of Punjab, four of Sindh, seven of NWFP and four of Balochistan have been ceased for not submitting statements of assets and liabilities with the Election Commission of Pakistan according to law.

Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan, Justice (R) Hamid AliMirza has issued notification about it according to a press release issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan here on Tuesday.

The notification was issued for information of general public, the name of Members of the National Assembly and Provincial Assembly of Punjab, Sindh, NWFP, and Balochistan, who failed to file their statements of assets and liabilities and direct that they shall cease to function as such members with immediate effect and still such statements are submitted by them.

Members of the National Assembly are NA-15 Karak Mufti Ajmal Khan, NA-35 Tribal Area-I Malik Bilal Rehman, NA-52 Rawalpindi-III Capt. (R) Muhammad Safdar, NA -57 Attock-I Sheikh Aftab Ahmad, NA-86 Jhang-I Syed Anayat Ali Shah, NA-91 Jhang-VI Shahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, NA-99 Gujranwala-VII Rana Nazir Ahmad Khan, NA-101 Gujranwala-VII Justice (R) Iftikhar Ahmad Cheema, NA-116 Narowal-III Ch. Muhammad Tariq Anis, NA-120 Lahore-III Bilal Yaseen, NA-127 Lahore-X Chaudhry Naseer Ahmed Bhutta, NA-134 Sheikhupura-cum-Nankan Sahib-II Sardar Muhammad Irfan Dogar, NA-164 Pakpattan-I

Sardar Mansab Ali Dogar, NA-165 Pakpattan-II Syed Muhammad Salman Mohsin Gillani, NA-170 Vehari-VI, Mehmood Hayat Khan Alias Tochi Khan, NA-175 Rajanpur-II Mir Dost Muhammad Mazari, NA-236 Sanghar-II Roshan ud Din Junejo, (Old Sanghar-III), NA-268 Kalat-Cum-Mastung Dr. Ayatullah Durrani, Reserve Seat for women Ms. Shahnaz Saleem, Reserve Seat for women, Ms. Kashmala Tariq and Reserve Seat for women Malik Mehrunnisa Afridi.

Membership of a total 32 Members of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab has been ceased for the above-mentioned reasons. Members who have been bared are PP-33 Sargodha VI, Ch. Abdul Razzaq Dhillon, PP-38 Sargodha-XI Mrs. Shahzadi Umerzadi Tiwana, PP-63 Faisalabad XII Muhammad Ajmal, PP-64 Faisalabad XIV

Zafar Iqbal Nagra, PP-66 Faisalabad XVI Rana Muhammad Afzal Khan, PP-76 Jhang-IV Mehr Sultan Sikandar Bharwana, PP-100 Gujranwala-X Zulfiqar Ali Bhindar, PP-101 Gujranwala-XI Ch. Khalid Pervez Virk, PP-122 Sialkot-II Muhammad Akhlaq, PP-138 Lahore-II Dr. Asad Ashraf, PP-152 Lahore-XVI, Dr. Saeed Elahi, PP-156 Lahore-XX Muhammad Yasin Sohi, PP-162 Sheikhupura-I Muhammad Khuram Gulfam, PP-165 Sheikhupura-IV Ch. Asghar Manda, PP-173 Nankana Sahib-IV Syed Abrar Hussain Shah, PP-177 Kasur-III Haji Muhammad Naeem Safdar Ansari, PP-182 Kasur-VIII, Amjad Ali Mayo, PP-183Kasur-IX Sardar Muhammad Asif Nakal, PP-187 Okara-III Syed Raza Ali Gillani, PP-192 Okara-VIII, Malik Ali Abbas Khokhar, PP-193 Okara-IX Muhammad Mueen Watto, PP-211 Lodhran-V Ahmed Khan BalochPP-224 Sahiwal-V Shahzad Saeed Cheema, PP-229 Pakpattan-III

Sardar Wajid Ali, PP-240 Dera Ghazi Khan-I Sardar Meer Badshah Khan Qaisrani, PP-251 Muzaffargarh-I Malik Ahmed Yar Hinjra, PP-255Muzaffargarh-VI Malik Jawad Kamran Khar, PP-258 Muzaffargarh-VII Mukhdoom Zada Syed Haroon Ahmed Sultan Bukhari, PP-262 Layyah-I Ahmad Ali Aulakh, PP-264 Layyah-III Sardar Qaisar AbbasKhan Magassi, PP-279 Bahwalnagar-III Rana Abdul Rauf and Reserve Seat for women Ms. Sakina Shaheen Khan.

According to the list, only four members of the Provincial Assembly of Sindh did not submit their statements.

These are from PS-44 Matiari-Cum-Hyderabad Syed Pir Amir Ali Shah, PS-93 Karachi-V Ameer Nawab, Reserve Seat for women

Lal Chand and Reserve Seat for women Salim Khursheed Khokhar.

Seven members of the Provincial Assembly of NWFP did not file their statements of assets so far according to the notification.

The list of these seven members along with details of their constituencies is as under:-

PF-4 Peshawar-IV Syed Aqil Shah, PF-6 Peshawar-VI Muhammad Alamgir Khalil, PF-6 Nowshera-V Pervaiz Ahmad Khan, PF-17 Charsadda-I Fazal Shakoor Khan, PF-35 Swabi-V Sikandar Irfan, PF-56 Mansehra-VI Waji-uz-Zaman Khan and PF-64 D.I. Khan-I KhalifaAbdul Qayyum.

Four members of the Provincial Assembly of BalochistanPB-23 Kohlu Mir Shahnawaz Khan Marri, PB-24 Dera Bugti Tariq Hussain Massui Bugti, PB-43 Panjgur-II Assad Ullah Baloch and Reserved Seat for Women Bibi Zarina have been barred to take part in the sessions of the Assembly as they failed to submit their statements.

LAHORE: The mastermind of attack at the military General Headquarters (GHQ) Qari Ishtiaq has been arrested, I Geo News reported Tuesday.

According to sources privy to intelligence agencies, a huge catch of modern arms and ammunition has been taken in custody from his possession.

Qari Ishtiaq is being said as the central commander of Punjabi Taliban.

The sources said more seven terrorists have been arrested on identification by Qari Ishtiaq during interrogation.

Of the extremists, three extremists were nabbed from Sargodha, three from Gujranwala and a terrorist has been arrested from Mailsi.

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Qamar Zaman Kaira said President Asif Ali Zardari is willing to curtail the presidential powers vested in the presidency through 58-2b.

Kaira said there is no estrangement between Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).

The federal minister said the President Zardari has come round to depute to Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani the powers regarding the appointment of services’ chiefs.

President is geared up to quash Article 58-2b of the Constitution.

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan's military said Tuesday 42 militants were killed during some of the heaviest fighting reported from the frontlines of its offensive against the Taliban in their tribal sanctuaries.

The latest death toll brings to 239 the total number of insurgents killed during the operation, but no information provided by the army can be verified with communication lines down and access banned to journalists and aid workers.

An army statement said troops fought at multiple locations in the far north of South Waziristan, where ground forces thrust towards die hard Taliban positions from their rear base at Razmak, killing 30 militants.

Security forces have surrounded Nawazkot, one of the Taliban's main regional strongholds and another 12 militants were killed in fighting on the approach to Taliban bastion Sararogha to the east and Kanigurram further south.

The death of a soldier brought to 31 the total number of troops reported killed since the operation began 11 days ago.

Around 30,000 troops are taking part in the offensive against an estimated 10-12,000 militants in the semi-autonomous and lawless tribal belt. Relief workers say that around 200,000 people have been displaced by the fighting.

Numerous previous offensives in the tribal belt have had limited success, costing the lives of 2,000 troops and ending generally with peace agreements that critics say gave the insurgents a chance to re-arm.

Forces also regained control of old FC Post at Nawazkot and recovered huge cache of arms and ammunition from the area.

Security forces effectively engaged terrorists positions at Pakallita Sar, Manza Sar, Green Ridge, Lahgar Narai, Zar-e-Sar Base, China and Makeen. During engagement reportedly 30 terrorists have been killed.

Forces cleared Tip Ghar, Pt 6813 and Laghar Narai and consolidation is under way. During the search operation huge cache of arms and ammunition have also been recovered.

Terrorists fired 2 rockets at Razmak Camp resultantly 2 soldiers were injured.

At least eight terrorists voluntarily surrendered to security forces in Miandam, Sarsanai and Fizaghat areas of Swat and Malakand.

Security forces conducted search operation at Sam Shin, Sambat Cham and discovered 2 tunnels (15 meters wide and 30 meters long) in Swat area of Mian Killi and also apprehended 3 suspects.

The security forces distributed 7,025 cash cards amongst the displaced families of Waziristan.

5.3 million rupees have been withdrawn by the displaced families of Waziristan. Army helpline 0996-740439 at D I Khan has been established for complaints and donations.

ISLAMABAD: Former Chief Justice Supreme Court Justice (rtd) Abdul Hameed Dogar Tuesday said no judges including him has committed the contempt of court.

Addressing a press conference flanked with Advocate Naeem Bukhari and Ahmed Raza Kasuri, he said, ‘We received notice that we have committed the contempt of court by going against the verdict of 7-strong bench on November 3.’

‘We have filed a petition today under Article-184, clause-3 to challenge the restoration of existing four judges, i.e. Justice Javed Iqbal, Justice Khalil Ramday, Justice Raja Fayyaz and Justice Chaudhry Ijaz,’ he informed.

Referring to the case of Justice (rtd) Zafar Ali Shah, Justice (rtd) Dogar said in accordance with the verdict of 12-judge bench, it was made obligatory to take oath under the PCO, so that the system and judiciary could be safeguarded, country be protected and the security forces be helped.

No bench can stop any judge from Supreme Court or the High Court from taking oath, as the Zafar Ali Shah case verdict is still valid, he maintained adding, ‘No contempt of court is possible by going against the verdict of 7-member bench of November 3, as we were not aware of the verdict of seven-judge bench on November 3, accordingly, the contempt of court by judges including me is out of question.’

Justice (rtd) Abdul Hameed said, ‘This was underscored in the notification regarding the restoration of the deposed judges that after my retirement on March 21, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Iftikhar Muhammed Chaudhry would assume the office on March 22; this is an abundant proof of the fact that the present judiciary did not object to it and accepted my appointment as Chief Justice.’

He stressed that there is no reference in the Constitution regarding the reinstatement of the judges through an administrative order.

ISLAMABAD: Former Chief Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar has submitted a detailed reply of contempt of court notice issued by Supreme Court. He also filed a petition against Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry’s appointment as chief justice. Four on duty senior judges of Supreme Court Justice Javed Iqbal, Justice Khalil Ramday, Justice Raja Fayyaz and Justice Chaudhry Ijaz and federation through law ministry have been nominated as opponent in the petition.

Ahmed Raza Qusoori, lawyer of former Chief Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar has filed the petition. Dogar also filed a review petition against Supreme Court’s July 31 decision regarding November 3 emergency and PCO judges. Justice(r) Dogar’s reply comprised of 83 pages.

LAHORE: The unannounced electricity loadshedding continued throughout the province including Lahore despite countrywide reduction in power demand.

PEPCO is facing shortfall of 3,000 MW and to overcome this shortfall, unannounced loadshedding of several hours is continued. Lahore is facing nine hours of loadshedding whereas other towns and villages experiencing more then 16 hours loadshedding. The PEPCO sources declared the situation as satisfactory.

On the other hand, sugar crisis deepened across the country and it is not available even at the rate of Rs.50/kg. The sugar dealers have stopped supply to shopkeepers. They said sugar millers have stopped providing sugar supply and they will resume supply to shopkeepers as soon as they will get the sugar from sugar mills. District government said excessive sugar is providing from sugar mills and situation will be improved within two to three days.

PESHAWAR: The chief of the group involved in Hyatabad and Sukarno chowk bombings has been arrested.

IG NWFP Malik Naveed while talking to media said the leader of the group involved in Hyatabad and Sukarno chowk. He said no severe reaction of terrorists has been emerged due to better strategy of police.

Malik Naveed said red alert security has been imposed in the province and hundreds of militants and commanders have been arrested. Heavy arms cache and explosives also recovered which averted the possible destruction. He said 16,000 more personnel will be recruited.

WASHINGTON: Pakistan is in danger of becoming the "epicenter" of global extremism if the United States and its allies fail to bring stability to neighbouring Afghanistan, US Senator John Kerry said Monday.

Kerry was in Afghanistan last week and helped convince Afghan President Hamid Karzai to agree to an election run-off on November 7.

Kerry's comments came as President Barack Obama held another meeting with his national security team to consider the administration's strategy in Afghanistan and whether to send more troops to the war-torn country.

In a speech to the Council on Foreign Relations, a US think-tank, Kerry said the US must be realistic about what it can achieve in Afghanistan.

But he warned that a failure to restrain the Taliban's influence and defeat al-Qaeda would be a boon for followers in Pakistan, where much of the terrorist group fled after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan began in 2001, soon after the September 11 terrorist attacks.

"What happens in Afghanistan has an impact on Pakistan. Pakistan is not only the headquarters of al-Qaeda today, but it could easily become the epicenter of extremism in the world," said Kerry, who chairs the foreign policy committee of the Senate.

"Instability in Afghanistan only increases the risk of conflagration where the world can least afford it, next door in Pakistan," said Kerry.

Obama has been meeting for weeks with his top advisors as part of a comprehensive review of his strategy in the region and whether to send as many as 40,000 extra troops to Afghanistan.

ISLAMABAD: Senior leader of Pakistan Muslim League-N, Raja Zafar-ul-Haq Monday said that PML-N Chief Nawaz Sharif has urged President Asif Ali Zardari to undertake necessary steps towards amendment of the Constitution including repeal of 17th amendment in the light Charter of Democracy.

Giving briefing on the meeting between President Zardari and Nawaz Sharif, Raja Zafar-ul-Haq said the PML-N Chief proposed formation of a NAB-like organization under the Charter of Democracy.

Nawaz Sharif underlined adoption of a self-reliance policy with a view to end Pakistan’s dependence of foreign aid.

To a question regarding National Reconciliation Ordinance, Raja Zafar said: “The word ‘NRO’ was not mentioned even for a single time during the meeting which lasted for over 90 minutes.”

Nawaz Sharif suggested that leaders of Balochistan be contacted and steps be taken for putting out fire in the province. He underlined adoption of strategy for economic well being and safeguarding political rights of the people of Balochistan.

Raja Zafar quoted Nawaz Sharif as saying: “The challenge of terrorism cannot be tackled only through use of force … socio-ecnomic development must also be incorporated in the strategy to fight terrorism effectively.”

ISLAMABAD: The meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League-N Chief Nawaz Sharif has begun here at the Presidency.

Nawaz Sharif is accompanied by Raja Zafar-ul-Haq, Mamnoon Hussain, Javed Hashmi, Ishaq Dar, Ghaus Ali Shah and Iqbal Zafar Jhagra while Farhatullah Babar, Khursheed Shah, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Raza Rabbani, Makhdoom Amin Fahim and Qamar Zaman Kaira are attending the meeting from President’s side.

Both the leaders had last met on July 17 this year in Raiwind.

ISLAMABAD: Turkish Prime Minister (PM) Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on President Asif Ali Zardari today.

On this occasion he has been awarded Nishan-e-Pakistan for his services to promote and strengthen the Pak-Turk ties.

The award giving ceremony was held at Presidential House, Islamabad.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani were also present at this occasion.

Meanwhile, President Zardari hosted a lunch in the honour of the Turkish PM.

Turkish delegation, Federal Ministers and other dignitaries attend the lunch.

ISLAMABAD: Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan Monday stressed the need for putting up a joint struggle against the scourge of terrorism and extremism.

Delivering a historic address to the joint session of Pakistani Parliament, the Turkish PM said Turkey understands the challenges and problems being faced by the people of Pakistan. “Turkey stands with Pakistan in the war against terror,” the Turkish PM said.

The Turkish PM’s speech at the joint session of the Parliament is a first ever address made by any foreign diplomat.

Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani, senior military officials including Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and members of parliament attended today’s session.

The first lady of Turkey was also present along with the Turkish diplomats.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was not only the great leader of Pakistan but also of the entire world. When Ms Bhutto was assassinated on December 27, 2007, the members of Turkish parliament representing all the political parties of the country expressed grief, he added.

He described the relations shared between Pakistan and Turkey as extraordinary.

“Pakistan holds a special place in the hearts of Turkish people right from the day the former became independent 62 years ago,” the Turkish PM said, adding “the Turkish people still remember the freedom movement spearheaded by Jauhar brothers.”

MUZAFFARABAD: Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Istanbul will leave no stone unturned to help reconstruct the capital city of Azad Kashmir devastated in the deadly earthquake of October 8th 2005, whereas Prime Minister (PM) Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani stressed the sacrifices of Kashmiris for freedom will not go in vain and that peace cannot be established in the region without solving the Kashmir dispute.

According to Geo News, Turk PM Tayyip Erdogan inaugurated Social Welfare Complex, Khurshid National Public Library building and Usmania Mosque – constructed with the help of the Turkish government in Muzaffarabad – today morning.

PM Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Foreign Minster Shah Mahmoud Qureshi and Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira were accompanying Turkish PM.

President Azad Kashmir Raja Zulqarnain hosted a reception in the honour of Tayyip Erdogan.

On this occasion PM Gilani said Turkey is playing an important role to bring peace and stability in the region and that peace in the region cannot be established without solving the Kashmir dispute.

I am glad over Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan, Gilani added.

In his address the Turkish PM said he is pleased on the development work in Muzaffarabad carried out after the deadly quake.

‘Turkey will always help Pakistan in every possible way’, Erdogan said.

It may be mentioned; 586-room District Headquarter Building; over-300 rooms Social Welfare Complex, Usmania Mosque and 192 residential flats have been constructed in Muzaffarabad with the donation of the Turkish people.

ISLAMABAD: The chief of PML-N Mian Nawaz Sharif said there should be breakthrough in today’s meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari and charter of democracy and elimination of 17th amendment are breakthroughs.

Talking to media at the visit of PIMS hospital, Nawaz Sharif said no agenda has been received but national issues are quite clear and the country could not afford delay in this connection. He said we are playing the role of responsible opposition and this is happened for the first time in the history of the country.

Nawaz said government wants others help to continue its tenure because they don’t have required number. He said even by realizing this, we never tried to destablise the government. Both government and opposition should understand each others position, he added.

Hangu: 14 militants killed in clashes with security forces

HANGU: Militants attacked on security check-posts in Hangu meanwhile, 14 persons were killed and many others wounded in security forces’ retaliatory firing, Geo news reported Monday.According to sources, militants launched attack on security forces’ check-posts located in Tora Dari area late Sunday night, which security forces retaliated killing at least 14 militants and injuring many others, meanwhile in process, one security men martyred and fo .... Full Story

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari would meet Quaid Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif today (Monday) wherein issues pertaining to repeal of 17th amendment, Kerry-Lugar Law (KLL), Charter of Democracy (CoD), war against terrorism, overall country's political situation would be discussed, Geo news reported late on Sunday night.

According to sources Quaid PML-N Mian Muhammad Nawaz would press the President not to take test of Parliament by bringing National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) into it for sake of its ratification because he would oppose it inside or outside Parliament.

Constitutional recommendations for revoking 17th amendment would be finalized during the meeting.

The meeting is going to take place at that time when Nawaz's party PML-N has decided to oppose KKL and NRO, sources said.

The meeting is being arranged so that the national agenda in the light of charter of democracy, which was signed by slain Former Premier Benazir Bhutto and Quaid PML-N Mohammad Nawaz Sharif, could be devised.

Ongoing operation Rah-e-Nijat against militants in South Wazirisitan Agency (SWA ) and political reconciliation, 17th amendment and NRO would be key agenda of meeting.

On the other hand, the President would host a luncheon in honor of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan at Awan-e-Sadr to be attended by Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, head of armed forces and opposition leaders, however, spokesman of presidency has dispelled the impression about any meeting between President and Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif at that time.

The Turkish Premier would also address the joint session of Parliament. It would be the first address of any Turkish Premier and fourth of any foreigner head to joint session of Parliament.

ISLAMABAD : The federal government has issued a notification to put the watches back by one hour from November 1st, Geo News reported Sunday.

According to the notification issued here from the Interior Ministry, the watches would be put back by one hour at midnight of October 31.

The government decided to put the watches forward by one hour at midnight of April 1st to avail the Daylight Saving system.

According to the sources of the Ministry of Power and Water, this step has been instrumental in saving electricity 2 to 250 Megawatts on daily basis.

According to the Ministry of Power and Water, the decision regarding putting the watches forward under Daylight Saving system would be made next year in view of the then power situation in the country.

QUETTA: Balochistan Education Minister Shafique Ahmed was killed in firing incident by some unidentified miscreants; also, his relative was injured in the incident, Geo News reported Sunday.

Shafique Ahmed died on the spot in front of his house, where he was shot down in the head, as he was heading for his residence after getting down from his vehicle.

The attacker has been said to be aged around 45.

Hidayatullah Jafar, who is close relative of the deceased, was injured, as he received a bullet in his thigh.

Shafique Ahmed Khan belonged to Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).

According to police sources, the deceased received no previous threats of any sort.

PESHAWAR: Police have foiled terror bid here recovering seven landmines from the Pushtakhra area of Peshawar Sunday.

According to Police landmines were recovered nearby a police check-post and under the Pukhtay Bridge.

Police said in fear of being apprehended the saboteurs hid the landmines under the bridge.

It may be mentioned that Peshawar International Airport limits also begin a few meter ahead of the bridge.

Meanwhile, Bomb Disposable Squad has diffused the landmines, each weighing about seven pounds.

A single landmine could easily destroy a big vehicle, the Squad added.

ISLAMABAD: A suicide bomber late on Saturday night exploded himself near Islamabad-Lahore Motorway Interchange (ILMI), killing a Sub-Inspector of motorway police, Geo news reported.

According to motorway police spokesman, motorway police officials, intercepting a suspected vehicle indicated to stop near Islamabad-Lahore motorway interchange, namely Lillah, but the driver, on the vehicle, blown himself up with explosives and as a result, a sub-inspector motorway police Shah-e-Iran embraced martyrdom.

Another suspected person was nabbed near blast scene and was taken to unidentified location for investigation, sources said.

According to details, an officer of the Motorway Police was killed when a suicide bomber, riding an explosives-laden car, blew himself up after the vehicle was intercepted near the Lillah Interchange here late on Saturday night.

SSP Motorway Police Mohammad Ali Babakhel quoting preliminary information said Sub-Inspector Shah Iran was killed in the blast.

The SSP said the Motorway Police had received information that an explosives-laden car would travel on the Motorway. He said the car was intercepted between Kalar Kahar and Lillah Beat-7 where the suicide bomber detonated his explosives during search of the vehicle. Javed Chaudhry, spokesman for the Motorway Police, claimed that two persons were riding a Suzuki VXR Car bearing registration number BA-1233.

He said one of them was arrested by the patrolling officer while the other blew himself up during search of the car.

The spokesman said Motorway Police was put on high alert after information was received about movement of the explosive-laden silver colour car at 8.30am on Saturday. He said the car was intercepted near Lillah Interchange while heading towards Lahore.

Arrest of the terrorist could, however, not be confirmed from independent sources till the filing of this report.

LONDON: Pakistani High Commissioner in India Shahid Malik has said that Pakistan is done making every possible effort for resumption of composite dialogue with India and now India should adopt steps reflecting its willingness to improve relations.

Giving interview to a British news agency, Shahid Malik said: “It takes two to tango … we are done making every possible effort (for resumption of dialogue).”

“India should also take a step that reflects its desire to improve bilateral relations,” he asserted.

He said both the countries had agreed that dialogue is the only way forward in improving relations in the joint statement released in Sharm Al-Sheikh.

Regarding the halt in Indo-Pak dialogue following Mumbai attacks, the High Commissioner said Pakistan will not be affected by any pressure.

To a question regarding insurgency, he said Pakistan and Afghanistan should not be looked at with the same perspective. We do not like it when both countries are seen through same glass, he added.

He clarified that the nature of difficulties in Afghanistan is totally different from that of Pakistan. However, it is a fact that Pakistan is directly affected by the problems in Afghanistan, he added.

ISLAMABAD: Security forces after intense fighting Saturday took complete control of important stronghold of TTP – the town of Kotkai, the native place of terrorists leader Hakim Ullah Mehsud and Qari Hussain during the operation Rah-e-Nijat.

At a press conference along with Federal Minister for Qamar Zaman Kaira, Director General ISPR Maj. Gen. Athar Abbas said the terrorist group has started to unravel due to a rift among them.

He said 21 terrorists have been killed during security forces operation in SWA in last 24 hours. Three security forces embraced Shahadat and 8 others injured.

DG ISPR said security forces took complete control of Kotkai town. The place was stronghold of terrorists with majority of houses converted into strong bunkers. The town also has a training camp of Qari Hussain for suicide bombers. Security forces are in the process of clearing the built up area from IEDs, mines and booby traps.

He further said that security forces also took complete control of Shishwam and are in the process of securing surrounding heights.

During exchange of fire 12 terrorists were killed while 3 soldiers embraced Shahadat and 8 have been injured.

He said local sources also confirmed that during initial stages (17/18) October in Spinkai / Kund Sector, 80-90 terrorists were killed including Uzbeks and other foreign terrorists and 150 terrorists were injured.

After securing Chalwastai, security forces are in the process of securing important height of Tarkona Narai. This feature has number of terraces with fortified positions and is dominating important Y Junction on road leading to Kaniguram and Sar Wakai.
Stiff resistance is being put up by terrorists while 6 terrorists have been killed in exchange of fire, Maj. Gen. Athar Abbas said.

During search and clearance operation at Khaisura village, security forces recovered a number of rifles and 1 x 14.5 mm gun from a compound.

On main Axis route 1 ammunition laden vehicle has been destroyed alongwith with 3 terrorists killed.

He said reliable sources reported that due to the pressure of on going operation there has been large scale desertions amongst the rank and file of terrorists groups. It has been also reported that the terrorists are shaving and trimming their beards to escape from the area.

Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira said the security forces have dismantled the terrorists network in Kotkai and sealed all the exit points of the area for vehicles. There are only a couple exit routes for pedestrians, but the terrorists cannot flee from there, he said.

He told the reporters that registration of 20,872 IDPs is in progress. The Prime Minister has provided Rs2.5 billions to FATA secretariat for the relief and support of IDPs.

PESHAWAR: NWFP Government has decided to keep the schools closed for another week in the backdrop of deteriorating law and order situation.

In a statement issued by NWFP’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, it has been notified that the schools will remain closed till November 1.

Initially the schools in NWFP including Peshwar were closed down from October 21 to 25. This period has now been extended till November 1.

Punjab will decide about reopening of schools in the province by tonight.

WASHINGTON – Sami Ibrahim: US especial envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan Richard Holbrooke has said Friday there are certain elements in Pakistan who have been raising concerns over Kerry-Lugar US aid bill to Pakistan.

Holbrooke said that the military aid to Pakistan was without any conditions and the US Congress, like the Kerry-Lugar Law (KLL), had bound the US administration to fulfill the reporting requirement to Congress before the aid goes to Pakistan.

This he said to a press briefing here. Holbrooke said those elements have their vested interests in criticizing Kerry-Lugar Law (KLL).

US trusts Pakistan army determination in combating terrorism, he asserted maintaining, there are some conditions upon officials in US on reporting military aid bill.

Responding to Geo news correspondent Sami Ibrahim question, Holbrooke said there is no condition applied upon Pakistan through US military aid bill and there is a group comprising certain elements who have their vested interest in criticizing US bill on military assistance.

Pervez Musharraf is now former president of Pakistan and he is allowed to assert his point of view as he wants, he said adding, there are no conditions on Pakistan through military aid.

We have observed decline in concerns on KLB in Pakistan, he added.

Briefing the media at the State Department here on Friday, Holbrooke said Secretary Clinton would be visiting Pakistan but the details about her activity there and dates were not being disclosed due to security reasons.

But she will be having discussions with the military and political leadership, including the opposition leaders, he said. Answering a question whether or not the US was still confident that Pakistan’s nuclear installations were safe even after attacks on several military installations, including the GHQ, in recent days, Holbrooke said, “yes” he believes that unclear installations of Pakistan are safe.

When asked whether these attacks on military installations suggest that the militants had inside links within the military, the special representative said he was not in a position to answer that and only the Pakistani military could answer it. But what he knew was that the Pakistani military did an excellent job in fighting the attackers, who stormed the GHQ and other places.

Answering another question about the success of Waziristan operation, he said the operation there has just started and he could not comment on it. However, during the forthcoming trip of Secretary Clinton progress in the war on terror and Waziristan operation are expected to come under discussion.

When asked as to what sparked the strong resentment over the KLL in Pakistan, Holbrooke said it was wrong to assume that it sparked any resentment. The KLB was an excellent piece of legislation to help the people of Pakistan, he added.

He said there was a certain group of people, who was looking for an excuse to criticise the US and then the bill was caught in domestic politics. The Pakistani parliament wanted to pass it but it was misunderstood then. He believed that the KLB issue was then over.

He said it was his effort to improve the working of NGOs and government contractors because he wanted to use the US taxpayers’ money for the betterment of the people of Pakistan to bridge the gap between the two countries.

ATTOCK: The death toll in suicide attack at Aeronautical Complex of Kamrah near Attock mounted to eight, Geo News reported Friday.

The deceased include two security personnel and 15 others were injured.

The suicide bomber blew himself up at the first security check post near the Complex at 715am today, when people were turning up to report at their duties. The security check post is manned by police and Pak Air Forces personnel.

According to Attock Police Chief DPO Fakhar Sultan Raja, the distorted face and other organs of the suicide bombers have been found, adding the bomber was riding a cycle, who blew himself up on being intercepted.

Soon afterwards, the security personnel took a security cordon around the blast site and blocked the Attock-Kamrah Road for traffic.

According to the PAF sources, at least 15 injured personnel were rushed to the hospital; the statement confirmed the deaths of two security personnel.

According to District Police Officer, the search operation was underway when the suicide blast occurred; however following the incident, police took under custody from the area some suspected people having no identity documents.

ISLAMABAD: A high-level meeting held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani decided to enhance cooperation among law enforcement agencies and improve operational capability of police, CID and special branch.

Senior military leadership and heads of law enforcement agencies participated in the meeting at PM Secretariat.

Chief ministers of Sindh, Balochistan and NWFP, advisor to Chief Minister Punjab, federal ministers besides Army Chief, DG ISI, head of FC, IGs police and provincial chief secretaries were present.

The meeting took stock of the security measures being adopted across the country, the wave of terrorism and the ongoing operation against terrorists.

The participants reiterated their resolve to root out terrorism by employing all the available resources, sources told Geo News.

It was decided during meeting that the Army will provide training to the police commandoes and equip them with modern weapons.

Decision was also made to release Rs2.5 billion for the relief and support of the displaced persons of Waziristan.

The military representatives gave detailed briefing on Waziristan operation while the Interior Ministry briefed the participants on the overall law and order situation.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani is chairing a high-level inter-provincial meeting to take stock of the steps being taken to maintain law and order here on Friday.

Senior military leadership and heads of law enforcement agencies are participating in the meeting underway at PM Secretariat.

Chief ministers of Sindh, Balochistan and NWFP, advisor to Chief Minister Punjab, federal ministers besides Army Chief, DG ISI, head of FC, IGs police and provincial chief secretaries are present.

The participants of the meeting were briefed on the security measures taken across the country as well as on continuing operation against terrorists.

PESHAWAR: Eighteen persons have been killed when a marriage party bus hit a landmine in tehsil Lakro of Mohmand Agency.

According to Geo News correspondent, a marriage party bus struck with anti tank mine planted by militants in tehsil Lakro. Eighteen persons including women and children have been killed whereas four women and two men injured in the incident. The injured have been rushed to hospital. The military operation is underway in Mohmand Agency and militants planted the mine to target army convoy

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has adjourned the hearing of sugar prices case till October 29 on the request of finance ministry.

A full bench of Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry heard the case. Federal finance secretary informed the court that sugar prices issue is under consideration under the supervision of prime minister. An effective procedure will be chalk out for sugar prices after consultations therefore hearing should be adjourned.

In his remarks, chief justice directed that sugar should be provided at Rs.40/kg to domestic consumer. If government will not take final decision, we will give the verdict on merit.

ATTOCK: Seven persons have been killed in a suicide bombing at a security forces check post near Kamra Aeronautical Complex has reached. Eight persons wounded in the blast.

According to DPO Attock Fakhar Sultan, a suicide bomber blew himself near Kamra Aeronautical Complex at G T Road in district Attock. Seven persons including two security men and four civilians have been killed and eight injured in the explosion. The injured have been rushed to Attock hospital

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad police have arrested a suspected man wearing a jacket full of explosives.

The suspect was arrested from Islamabad Sector I-9. The police frisked him and found that the man with grey beard, identified as Barlesh, was wearing a jacket loaded with explosives, sources said.

Bullets have also been recovered from his jacket.

Police tied his arms above his head and took him to I-9 Police Station where bomb disposal squad took the jacket off of his body under strict security.

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has called assurances from government organizations till tomorrow about the availability of sugar to domestic consumer at Rs. 38 to 40 per kilogram.

A Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry heard the case of sugar prices. In his remarks, Chief Justice Iftikhar said Utility Stores have failed to provide inexpensive commodities to the consumers.

Acting Attorney General Shah Khawar in his arguments said that the government formulating short term and long term policies to resolve sugar crisis.

Chief Justice in his remarks during the hearing said the government should set up ration depots in low-income and rural areas to provide sugar on cheaper rates. Later, the hearing has been adjourned till tomorrow.

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has adjourned the hearing of a petition filed against release of under surveillance chief of Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) Hafiz Mohammad Saeed for one month.

The apex court imposed fine of Rs10, 000 on federation and Punjab government for delaying the case and their non-cooperative attitude.

A full bench of Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry heard the petition filed by the government against release of Hafiz Saeed. At the start of the hearing, the court was informed that counselor of Punjab government is busy in another case after which the hearing was adjourned temporarily. Later, the SC adjourned the hearing for a month after imposing the fine on federation and Punjab government.

ISLAMABAD: At least three army personnel have embraced martyrdom and one sustained bullet-inflicted wounds as two unknown armed miscreants, riding motorcycle, opened fire on an army jeep, which was on its way in G-11 Sector area of Islamabad, rescue sources said early on Thursday morning.

Eyewitnesses said unknown miscreants, aged between 22 to 25 years, succeeded to flee after carrying out deadly ambush on an army jeep.

According to SHO police Inayat, one among dead army men was Brigadier Moin, meanwhile, police have launched search operation in order to locate fleeing militants.

Police said their parties have cordoned off the entire area but no official version over the incident has come to surface as yet.

All the police checkposts, located nearby, have been put on high alert, meanwhile, the investigation into the incident has commenced, sources said.

It is pertinent to mention that G-11 Sector is the residential area of top army officials in Islamabad while pillion riding is also already banned in federal capital.

MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Kashmir legislative assembly has elected Raja Farooq Haider as leader of the House.

In a voting held today, Raja Farooq of Muslim Conference secured 29 votes whereas his rival Sardar Yaqoob got 19 votes. Earlier, care taker Prime Minister Haji Yaqoob Khan advice the president not to summon assembly session.

Talking to Geo News, President of Muslim Conference Sardar Ateeq Ahmed said president could postpone the session on the advice of prime minister but not on the demand of any candidate. Haji Yaqoob is a candidate, therefore, his advice is not being treated as advice of prime minister.

ISLAMABAD: Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan will pay a three day official visit to Pakistan from October 24 and discuss with Pakistani leaders measures to further strengthen security, economic and trade relations

The two countries that already have a regular strategic dialogue will further intensify the process of coordination, consultation and cooperation on regional and global issues, during the talks.

The Turkish Prime Minister during his stay will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, besides addressing joint sitting of the Parliament, a Foreign Office source said.

The Turkish Prime Minister will lead a high powered delegation of CEOs of Turkish Companies that are likely to finalise a number of MoUs to expedite trade and economic relations between the two countries.

The Board of Investment (BoI) is hectically arranging meetings between the visiting Turkish business and industry heads and local entrepreneurs to boost bilateral trade relations with an objective of significantly enhancing the current two way trade of US 800 million dollars.

Pakistan attaches great importance to its cordial ties with Turkey and the two countries will endeavour to expand mutual cooperation in multidimensional fields.

The two countries have vast scope in expanding ties in agriculture, minerals, manufacturing, education, food processing, energy and infrastructure development.

LAHORE: The Quaid Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif said Wednesday what can I do if US Senator John Kerry has failed to address my concerns over Kerry-Lugar Bill, reported Geo news.

This he said to media while paying visit to Shahi Forte Lahore. Nawaz, on the occasion, was briefed over the decoration plans of the forte.

Chief PML-N wanted more steps in order to maintain the law and order situation. He said the historical monuments in Lahore needed government attention as we have become much late in preserving cultural heritage.

Nawaz on the occasion announced formation of a three-member committee, which will compile recommendations for restoration and preservation of cultural legacy.

WASHINGTON: U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Thursday the recent attacks of terrorism showed extremists are a growing threat in the nuclear-armed American ally, Pakistan, but she contended they don't pose a risk to the country's atomic arsenal and nuclear command and control system.

Talking to media here in White House, Clinton said extremists were "increasingly threatening the authority of the state, but we see no evidence that they are going to take over the state. We have confidence in the Pakistani government and military's control over nuclear weapons."

Pakistan’s determination to wipe out terrorism is commendable, she added.

LAHORE: At least nine suspects, involved in provision of logistic support to militants who carried out triple terrorist attacks on security forces in Lahore on October 15, were arrested who were reportedly hailing from Aqil alias Dr. Usman group, Geo news reported late on Thursday.

According to intelligence sources, Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) have traced down the network having hand in terrorist strikes on FIA center, Bedian Elite Center and Manawan Training Center in Lahore on October 15.

Also, police claimed to have arrested as many as 9 aides of the network who provided logistic support for making Lahore attacks possible and recovered heavy amount of armaments and maps of important buildings from their possession, sources said.

Four among them belonged to Punjabi Taliban while remaining hailed from Waziristan, sources added.

DERA GHAZI KHAN: The letter written to WAPDA from MEPCO of Dera Ghazi Khan (DGK) has indicated 114 chambers of lawyers in DGK District Bar have been using the stolen electricity including the chamber of General Secretary Waseem Jaskani for last several years, Geo news reported Thursday.

According to MEPCO officials, lawyers have been stealing electricity for many years while their illegal electricity connections were disconnected many times, however, they always manage to reconnect them while those disconnected their electricity connections twice were also physically abused.

The Superintendent MEPCO DGK Engineer Abdul Mateen told Geo news the report on electricity stealing has been forwarded to WAPDA’s top officials but it fell dead flat so far.

CHARSADDA: At least six extremists including three commanders were arrested during joint action carried out by police and CID here on Wednesday, recovering armaments from their possession, Geo news reported. According to DPO Charsadda Muhammad Riaz Khan, in Kandray area of Shabqadar tehsil of Charsadda, police and CID launched crackdown on extremists on the intelligence of their presence there and arrested six extremists along heavy armaments including three commanders. He said, “Local people lent police-CID joint teams helping hand during exchange of fire between two sides ahead of arrests”. All the arrested extremists were said to be hailing from Swat and Shangla areas who were later identified as Umar Wahid, Murad Ali and Muhammad Amin – the militants’ commanders, he added.

WASHINGTON: Both chambers of the US Congress have quietly approved a bill that seeks tough new restrictions on military aid to Pakistan, aides told media on Wednesday. The bill comes up for final approval later this week.

Democratic Senator Robert Menendez and Republican Senator Bob Corker jointly crafted the new restrictions.

‘The Senate approved the bill on July 24 while the House of Representatives passed it earlier this month,’ an aide for Senator Corker told Dawn.

In the US legislative system, the House and the Senate work separately, which requires both chambers to craft their own versions of a proposed bill. After separate votes, the two versions are reconciled in a joint session, which is called the conference.

The proposed amendment to the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) comes to conference later this week. If approved, as expected, it would become a law.

An earlier joint statement by the offices of the two senators said that they had successfully attached an amendment to the Department of Defence authorisation bill that passed the Senate ‘in order to help ensure that military assistance for Pakistan is actually being used for its purpose: to fight the Taliban and Al Qaeda’.

The Menendez-Corker legislative language would mandate a certification by the US Secretary of State and Secretary of Defence, before Pakistan is reimbursed with Coalition Support Funds, that the payment is both in the national security interests of the US, and will not affect the balance of power in the region.

‘To this point, almost eight years and more than seven billion in American taxpayer dollars for Pakistan’s military have not prevented the Taliban and Al Qaeda from regrouping along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border,’ said Senator Menendez.

‘The fight against these extremists is crucial for our own security, which is why we have to certify that our support is in fact doing what we intend it to do and is not being used for other purposes.’

Mr Menendez insisted that this was an issue of national security and of responsibility with taxpayer dollars and that’s why he was seeking to further tighten the restrictions on Pakistan.

Senator Corker said that the US appreciated the important role Pakistan had played in America’s fight to eliminate the terrorist safe havens within their borders, ‘we also owe it to our service members and the American taxpayer to ensure that the funds provided to Pakistan out of the Coalition Support Funds are in fact being directed towards those efforts and not misdirected’.

The fresh limits include efforts to track where US military hardware sent to Pakistan ends up, as well as a warning that US aid to Pakistan must not upset ‘the balance of power in the region’ —a reference to tensions with India.

The limits are in a $680 billion US Defence Department spending measure for 2010 that the Senate will take up after the bill cleared the House of Representatives in a 281-146 vote on Oct 8.

If, as expected, the Senate approves the legislation, it will go to President Barack Obama to sign into law who earlier this month signed the Kerry-Lugar bill into a law.

Although the Kerry-Lugar bill tripled US economic assistance to Pakistan, it also placed some restrictions on the military aid.

LAHORE: Police claimed arresting seven persons accused of aerial firing and encountering police, recovering heavy amount of arms from their possession, Geo news reported Thursday.

According to police sources, the incident took place when on information of firing, police arrived in Bagh Pur area and tried to intercept accusers but they opened fire at police, which police retaliated and arrested them on charges of aerial firing and encountering police personnel.

The recovered arms were unlicensed, which included seven rifles, two pistols and several bullet rounds, meanwhile, the case under terrorism and police encounter acts has been registered against them, sources said.

Arrested accused persons dispelled involvement in police encounter, saying they were on way to attend a marriage ceremony when arrested, sources told Geo news.