Author: Maxter ʚïɞ

This author has written 2722 articles

Detailed SUMMARY of the Article “Diplomatic Challenge,” Editorial, Dawn, July 29th, 2024

The article discusses the escalating tensions between the US and China and its implications for Pakistan, which maintains significant economic and military ties with both global powers. Given the complexity of its relationships, Pakistan must develop a contingency plan to navigate the potential fallout if relations between the US and China deteriorate further. The recent statement by US diplomat Donald Lu, indicating that the Biden administration had requested $101 million from Congress for Pakistan, and suggesting that the US represents the future for Pakistan over China, underscores the challenges Pakistan faces in maintaining neutrality. The Foreign Office of Pakistan emphasized that Pakistan values its relationships with both nations, describing China as an “all-weather strategic cooperative partner.” The editorial argues that while investment and cooperation from various global players are essential, the US’s $101 million offer is insufficient to shift Pakistan’s strategic alliances. The article advocates for Pakistan to balance its ties with the US and China without compromising its national interests. It also highlights the need for Pakistan to focus on improving relations with its immediate neighbors, including Iran, Afghanistan, China, and India, » Read More…

SUMMARY of the Article “Frozen Ties,” by Maleeha Lodhi, Dawn, July 29th, 2024

The article explores the stagnant state of diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, highlighting that the prospects for engagement remain bleak. Despite Pakistan hosting a multilateral summit in October as part of its role as the rotational chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), there is little hope for a thaw in relations. There is no indication that either side is willing to use this summit as an opportunity for bilateral re-engagement, and it is unlikely that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend. The article also discusses the role of sports as a barometer of diplomatic relations, noting that the strained ties have affected cricket diplomacy. The Indian cricket team is expected to avoid traveling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, citing strained relations. Past gestures of goodwill, such as congratulatory messages from Pakistani leaders, have been met with terse responses from India, emphasizing security concerns. Recent accusations by Modi against Pakistan and harsh rhetoric from Indian officials further indicate the deep-seated animosity. The article highlights the contentious issue of Kashmir, where a verbal clash between the two countries followed Pakistan’s reaffirmation of the need to resolve the dispute according to the UN Charter. India’s steadfast refusal to discuss Kashmir presents a significant obstacle to any potential dialogue. » Read More…

SUMMARY of the Article “Re-profiling loans,” Dawn Editorial, July 30th, 2024

The editorial discusses the recent developments in Pakistan’s quest for a $7 billion bailout from the IMF. The finance minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, announced that Pakistan needs to re-profile its bilateral debt from three close allies – China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE – for the next three to five years before the IMF can approve the bailout deal. This re-profiling involves extending the maturity period of loans totaling $12 billion to ensure more stable external financing under the IMF’s 37-month Extended Fund Facility. Pakistan has a unique financial arrangement with these countries, involving annual renewals of loans and deposits due to its inability to repay because of a dollar crunch. The nation owes $5 billion to Saudi Arabia, $4 billion to China, and $3 billion to the UAE. While the finance minister is hopeful about securing these extensions, there is skepticism among others. The editorial underscores that even with the IMF funds, Pakistan’s fundamental economic issues remain unresolved. The country struggles with generating sufficient export revenues and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to finance its imports and growth. The editorial criticizes the nation’s elites for living luxurious lives on borrowed money and warns that » Read More…

100 Important Dawn Vocabulary List with Meaning | 31st July, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, expanding one’s vocabulary is essential for effective communication and comprehension. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who loves to read, having a strong vocabulary can significantly improve your understanding of complex texts and enhance your ability to express ideas clearly. Here, we present an extensive list of important vocabulary words, along with their meanings, to help you broaden your linguistic horizons. This list is especially curated from the daily vocabulary featured in the Dawn newspaper, ensuring that the words are relevant and contemporary. » Read More…

ASF SECURITY MEASURES TO MAINTAIN LAW & ORDER MCQS QUIZ

The Airport Security Force (ASF) plays a critical role in maintaining law and order at airports in Pakistan. The ASF Act of 1975 outlines the protocols and responsibilities necessary to ensure the safety and security of all airport users. Understanding these measures is essential for anyone preparing for the FPSC Test and other related exams. Our ASF Security Measures to Maintain Law & Order MCQs Quiz provides an invaluable resource to test your knowledge. Featuring 50 multiple-choice questions, this quiz allows you to see the answers immediately upon selection, helping you to learn and understand the key elements of the ASF’s role in law enforcement. Download the comprehensive PDF at the end of the page to aid your preparation. » Read More…

SUMMARY of the Article “A Caring Economy,” by Samia Liaquat Ali Khan, Dawn, July 25th, 2024

The article “A Caring Economy” by Samia Liaquat Ali Khan, published in Dawn on July 25th, 2024, addresses the disproportionate burden of caregiving placed on women and its impact on their participation in the labor force, particularly in South Asia. The World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report highlights how this imbalance caused female labor force participation rates to drop during and immediately after the Covid pandemic, with only recent improvements. Research by the World Bank indicates that extended maternity leave often leads to women not returning to work, while extended paternity leave for men positively influences women’s re-entry into the labor market. In Pakistan, many companies are hesitant to employ women due to perceived short-term financial costs and the need for ‘special’ treatment in a male-dominated environment. Women face numerous barriers to entering and staying in the workforce, including discriminatory job advertisements and interview practices, societal expectations regarding marriage and motherhood, and lack of support at home. As a result, women often leave the workforce, leading to a significant gender disparity in senior management positions. The article argues that societal perceptions of gender roles need fundamental reconfiguration, emphasizing the undervalued but crucial nature of care work. Economists Naila Kabeer and Nancy Folbre have highlighted the economic productivity of care work, which enhances human capabilities but is poorly compensated. The article suggests rewarding men for caregiving roles and providing better economic opportunities for women. Policies like flexible work hours, child care options, mandated paternity leave, and encouraging men’s involvement in caregiving are » Read More…