NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT ———— “QUESTIONS FOR … · export of Fish & Fishery products from Pakistan to the EU countries in 2013. It may be recalled that the fish processing

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(35th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWERS AND THEIR REPLIES”

to be asked at a sitting of the National Assembly to be held on

Monday, the 5th September, 2016

123. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:(Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the movement of Indian forces hasextraordinarily increased on the line of control adjacent to theNeelam Valley; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that the said movement is violation ofthe Ceasefire Agreement of 2003; if so, the reasons thereof?

Transferred to Defence Division for answer on Next Rota Day. 124. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

(Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) the total quantity of gold sent abroad or sold illegally duringthe year 2012-13;

(b) the loss suffered by country’s economy due to devaluation ofrupee therefrom alongwith the details thereof; and

(c) the actions taken by the Government against the responsiblesthereof?

Referred to Cabinet Division for allocation of Subject.

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189. *Ms. Sajida Begum:(Deferred during 34th Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state the presentstatus of the installation of wires and construction of Gate atthe Pakistan-Afghan border?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Pakistan shares 2600 km long porousborder with Afghanistan. Owing to cultural proximity the cross border movementis quite frequent. Around 40,00050,000 people cross daily from one side to theother. Most of these cross border movements were unregulated. In order tostreamline cross border movement, Pakistan is implementing border managementmeasures including setting up gates and installation of wires at the border crossingpoints. The implementation has already started w.e.f 1st June 2016 with the settingup of border controls at Torkham where despite opposition from Afghan side wehave installed a gate 37 meter inside the border. The rest of the installations wouldbe carried out in a phased manner.

31. *Mr. Jamshed Ahmad Dasti:


(a) whether it is a fact that Pakistan has failed to exportthe agricultural commodities; if so, the reasons thereof; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) No.Pakistan exports more than US$ 4 billion worth of agricultural commodities. Thoughthe export of the agricultural commodities declined by 13.7% during the year201516 as compared to 201415, the total proceeds from the agriculturalcommodities remained above US$ 4 billion. The main reason for decline in exportsof commodities is the global commodity crisis. The price of cotton in the globalmarket declined by 10% from 70 cents/lb in 201415 to 63.5 cents/lb in201516. Similarly there has been a significant decline in international prices ofother agricultural commodities such as rice and wheat.

(b) Under the Strategic Trade Policy Framework 201518, the followingspecific measures for the export of agricultural commodities have been announced:

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a. 50% support on the cost of imported new plant and machinery forspecified underdeveloped regions**

b. 100% markup support on the cost of imported new plant andmachinery on all Pakistan basis

* Meat, fruits, vegetables, dates, olives, guar gum

** Rural Sindh, KPK, FATA, Baluchistan, Southern Punjaband GB

Besides, the following multi sectoral incentives are available to theagriculture sector along with other export sectors:

Drawback of local Taxes and Levies (DLTL): Drawback forlocal taxes and levies will be given to exporters on free on board(FOB) values of their enhanced exports if increased by 10% andbeyond (over last year’s exports) at the rate of 4% on the increase.

The selected sectors are fish and fish preparations, meat and meatpreparation, spices, gloves, football and other sports goods, leather garments,other leather manufactures, footwear, surgical goods/medical instruments,cutlery, electric fans, transport equipment, auto parts, machinery specifiedfor particular industries or other machinery and other electric equipmentfurniture and pharmaceutical.

Technology Upgradation:

a. 20% investment support upto a maximum of Rs. 1 (one) Million perannum per company will be available for import of new plant andmachinery.

b. 50% of markup support on upgradation of technology will beprovided for import of new machinery/plant, subject to a maximumof Rs. 1 (one) Million per annum per company.

Selected sectors are fans, home appliances, rice, sports goods and cutlery.

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32. *Ms. Nighat Parveen Mir:


(a) the names of countries with whom Pakistan is facing loss intrade at present; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to reduce such loss?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The list ofcountries with which Pakistan has negative trade balance is at AnnexA.

(b) In order to improve balance of trade, Ministry of Commerce is makingeffort on three fronts, that is:

(i) Trade diplomacy through unilateral/reciprocal concession withpartner countries

(ii) Trade promotion though exhibitions and delegations

(iii) Trade policy by improving export competitiveness throughvarious initiatives announced in STPF 201518.

The initiatives announced in the STPF 201518 primarily focus on:

a. Products sophistication and diversification of product base;

b. Enhancing share in existing markets and exploring new markets;

c. Institutional development; and

d. Trade Facilitation measures

Ministry of Commerce is currently negotiating trade agreements withThailand and Turkey to secure enhanced market access in these markets. Ministryis also in the process of reviewing FTAs / PTAs with China, Malaysia, andIndonesia etc. to make them more effective from Pakistan’s perspective. Further,trade promotion activities like exhibitions, trade fairs etc. are regularly held toshowcase and promote domestic products abroad.

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Annexure-A

6

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33. *Shazia Marri:


(a) whether it is a fact that the export targets have been set by theMinistry during the year 2015-16 till date; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that said targets have not been achievedby the Ministry during the said period; if so, the reasons thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) No,there was no specific target set by the Ministry of Commerce for the year201516. Ministry of Commerce has announced the three year policy framework(201518) in which the target has been set at US $ 35 billion by the end of30th June, 2018, provided all key enablers are in place with a whole of governmentapproach (STPF 201518 key enablers are attached at AnnexA).

( b) The above mentioned targets have been set for the period 201518.As the policy has recently been rolled out, it is premature to gauge the achievementsagainst the set targets. Moreover, exports business is done by the private sectorbased on market factors such as demand and supply, which have direct impact onexport performance of any country. Ministry of Commerce with the support ofother economic ministries works to create an enabling and facilitating environmentfor boosting exports.

Annex-A

Key Enablers to achieve the Export Targets

a. Competitiveness (quality infrastructure, labour productivity, accessto utilities, and level of technological development)

b. Compliance to standards (convergence of local & internationalstandards, protection of intellectual property, and effective andefficient disputes resolution mechanism)

c. Policy environment (monetary policy, tariff & tax regime, and synergicindustrial & investment policies)

d. Market access (multilateral, regional, and bilateral)

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34. *Dr. Shazia Sobia:


(a) the steps taken by the present Government to enhance exportof seafood products of the country; and

(b) the revenue generated from those exports during the financialyear 2015-16?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) The

steps taken by the Government in this regard are as under:

(i) A model shrimp farm in District Thatta, Sindh has been establishedby Fisheries Development Board with funding from ExportDevelopment Fund (EDF) to enhance supply of raw material forseafood industry in Pakistan.

(ii) Under STPF 201518 matching grant of upto a maximum ofRs. 5 (five) Million for specified plant and machinery or specifieditems to improve product design and encourage innovation in SMEsand export sectors of leather, pharmaceutical and fisheries.

(iii) EDF Board in its meeting held on 21 062016 approved PKR. 96million for the establishment of Pen feh farm of sea bass and groupersalong the coastal belt of Sindh.

(iv) After a period of about six (06) years, the EU allowed resumption ofexport of Fish & Fishery products from Pakistan to the EU countriesin 2013. It may be recalled that the fish processing plants were delistedby EU in April, 2007. Two fish processing plants have been enlistedby EU in March 2013 and case of enlistment of five (05) moreprocessing plants is in process with EU.

(v) In order to meet the requirement of EU and other importing countries,two (02) laboratories of MFD (i.e. microbiology & Chemical) havebeen accredited from Pakistan National Accreditation Council.

(vi) To meet the requirement of EU and other importing countries, 2,000fishing boats have been modified, which is a success story for Pakistan.

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(vii) Pursuant to the requirement of EU and other importing countries, onHazard Analysis & Critical Control Points (HACCP), guidelines havebeen prepared and distributed to 137 fish exporters / processors toensure the quality of seafood.

(viii) Around 2,455 fishermen / fisheries related personnel were trainedon different aspects of Hygiene, Deckhand, Navigational Electronicequipment, HACCP, modem fishing techniques etc. These trainingsfacilitate to reduce the postharvest losses on board fishing — vesselsand bring the nigh quality products which fetch higher price in themarket.

(ix) Further, in order to enhance seafood exports and curb the smugglingof seafood export to Afghanistan and other countries fromPeshawar, the following four (04) new development projects arebeing implemented:

o Establishment of Regional Office & Testing Laboratory ofMarine Fisheries Department at Peshawar.

o Establishment of Regional Office & Testing laboratories ofMarine Fisheries Department at Gwadar.

o Up gradation and Accreditation of Quality Control Laboratoriesof MFD for Environmental Contamination.

o Reactivation of Hatchery Complex for Production of Fish andShrimp Seeds.

(b) The revenue generated from those exports during the financial year201516 is US$ 324 Million.

35. *Ms. Musarat Rafique Mahesar:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether it is afact that wheat was imported from Ukraine during the last yeardespite surplus stock of said crop; if so, the reasons alongwith thedetails thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): No wheatwas imported to Pakistan during the year 20152016.

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36. *Dr. Mahreen Razaque Bhutto:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) the performance of Pakistan Sports Board since 01-01-2013;and

(b) the details of the employees working in the said Board at present?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): (a) The Pakistan Sports Board has wide range of sporting facilities at itsHeadquarter and its Coaching Centers at Provincial Headquarters i.e Lahore,Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta. These facilities are primarily used for NationalTraining Camps and holding of various National and International SportsCompetitions. In addition, these facilities are also allowed for General Public onnormal membership basis.

The Pakistan Sports Board has performed major activities since01012013:

Organized training camps of different sports disciplines on annualbasis.

Participated as well as issued NOCs to the National SportsFederations for participation in international sports competitions.

Organized international sports competitions in the country.

Organized Seminars/Courses for sportspersons.

MoUs have been signed with different countries for promotion ofsports and to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

Cash prizes were awarded to National Athletes who won medals inmega international events and also showed distinct performance.

Organized QuaideAzam Inter Provincial Games in which lucrativecash awards were given to the medal winners.

Organized Inter Provincial Youth under16 girls and under17 boyscompetitions in difference disciplines.

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Organized Pakistan Inter Board Sports Competitions in which cashawards were given.

(b) The detail of the employees working in Pakistan Sports Board (HQ),Islamabad and PSB Coaching Centers at Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar & Quetta isas under:

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37. *Ms. Suraiya Jatoi:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether it is afact that a number of items have been allowed by the Government toimport from China without duties; if so, the names thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Pakistan

signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2006, which becameoperational in 2007. Under this arrangement, 2398 tariff lines at 8digit HS Codeare importable from China at zero customs duty however; other duties and taxesare applicable (List of items attached),

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

38. *Mr. Murad Saeed:


(a) the total number of Pakistanis detained in the Kingdom of SaudiArabia at present alongwith the details thereof;

(b) the steps taken by the Government for legal support thereof;and

(c) the total number of Pakistanis facing residence permit issues/iqama renewal issues in the said country at present?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) There are 1448 Pakistani prisoners in

the Jails of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

(b) Our Missions at Saudi Arabia have taken following steps to help theprisoners in Jails:

(i) Consular visits are undertaken to meet the detainees and extendthem possible assistance;

(ii) Emergency Travel documents are issued to those detainees who havecompleted their sentence and are due to travel back home;

(iii) We have raised the case of those who are about to compete theirsentences in order to ensure that they are set free without delay;

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(iv) Translator services are provided on request in the labor court forpleading cases in Arabic language;

(v) Problems coming into our notice related to the detainees are raisedwith relevant authorities.

(c) Out of 2.6 million Pakistani expatriates, 5500 Pakistanis are currentlyfacing issues relating to residence permit and Iqama renewal in Saudi Arabia.

39. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

Will the Minister for Textile Industry be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry has failed to gain exportearnings from cotton as compared to its neighboring countriesdue to lack of operational slowlessness of value addition field;

(b) if so, the steps being taken by the Ministry to increase the exportsof value addition product of cotton?

Minister for Textile Industry: (a) It is not a fact that value added exportshave decreased during, July June 201516. Textile exports have decreased by7.42% during JulyJune 201516 compared to corresponding period of last yeari.e. JulyJune 201415, however, it is pertinent to mention that quantities of valueadded products have increased and the only major decrease is in the cotton andyarn.

Table1: Export in terms of Quantities:

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Table 2: Exports in terms of value Millions $:

(b) The Government has allocated Rs. 6 billion for the Textile Policyinitiatives for FY 201617. Moreover, following support scheme would alsocontinue in FY 201617.

Budget Package 2016-17:

Sales Tax of five export oriented sectors namely textile, leather, sportsgoods, surgical goods and carpets has been made part of zero ratedtax regime from July 1, 2016.

All the pending sales tax refunds till 30th April whose RPOs havebeen approved, will be paid by 31st August 2016.

The existing scheme on Drawback of Local Taxes (DLTL) willcontinue in the FY201617.

Technology Upgradation Fund: Technology Upgradation Fund(TUF) Scheme for the textile sector has been formulated which willbe implemented from July 1st, 2016. Currently, the scheme is underprocess in State Bank of Pakistan.

Duty Free Import of Machinery: The facility of Duty free import oftextile machinery will be continued for 201617.

In 201415 the Government reduced markup rate on exports financefrom 9.4% to 7.5%, This rate was reduced in February 2015 to6.0%, and it was further brought down to 4.5% from 1st July 2015

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40. *Ms. Shamas Un Nisa:


(a) the names and designations of the employees/persons workingin Pakistan Embassy/Missions in Iran at present;

(b) the names and designations of the said employees/persons againstwhom complaints have been lodged during their presentpostings indicating also the action taken against them separately;and

(c) the names and designations of the said employees/persons whohave completed their tenure of postings in the said Embassy/Missions indicating also the time by which they will betransferred/called back?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The requisite information is as follows:

and the rate were further reduced to 3.5% wef November 2, 2015.The markup rates on Export Refinance Facility, has been broughtdown to 3.0% from 1st July 2016.

In the budget 201415, the Government reduced markup rate onlong term financing facility for 310 years duration from around 11.4%to 9.0% to allow export sector industries to make investments oncompetitive basis. This was further reduced to 7.5% in February2015 and was further brought down to 6.0% on 1st July 2015, therate were further reduced to 5% wef November 2, 2015. Further,Spinning and Ginning sector have been included in Long TermFinancing Facility.

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(b) There is no complaint against any official, except one, Mr. MuhammadUsman Siddique, Assistant in Pakistan Embassy Tehran, for his misconduct witha visitor.

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41. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of sports stadiums situated in the country atpresent alongwith the city-wise details thereof; and

(b) the total funds allocated for the construction of more sportsstadiums in the country during the last four yearsalongwith their mode of utilization?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): (a) The details regarding total number of Sports Stadiums situated inthe country (Province & citywise) at present Federally funded is attached atAnnex-I.

(b) The details regarding total budget allocated during last four years forsports stadium is attached at Annex-II.

Mode of Utilization:

After execution of work; as per standard specification, which is technicallyexamined by consultant, responsible for detailed supervision, recommends thepayment.

All the payments were made against the civil work for the construction ofsports stadium.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

(c) The following officer/official in Parep tehran have completed theirnormal tenure:

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42. *Dr. Arif Alvi:


(a) the year-wise exports in Rupee and Dollar made since01-01-2012;

(b) whether it is a fact that the exports of Pakistan have decreased;if so, the reasons thereof; and

(c) the comparison of exports of Pakistan with SAARC countriesat present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Theyearwise exports in Rupee and Dollar made since 01012012 is as follow:

Value in Billions Rupees/ USS——————————————————————————————

Year Jan- 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16Jun 12

————————————————————————————————————————————EXPORTS Rs. 1133.861 2372.177 2583.463 2397.513 2168.472

US$ 12.422 24.581 25.110 23,667 20.802—————————————————————————————————————Source Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

(b) Pakistan’s exports have decreased from $ 24.58 billion in 201213to $ 20.8 billion in 201516. The reasons for decline in exports can be attributedto following endogenous and exogenous factors:

Endogenous factors

1. Demand for Raw Cotton

The additional pressure on imports came from a fall in domesticcotton crop, which necessitated higher imports from India.

2. Low investment in the export sector

Investment in exporting sectors has remained disturbingly low, as acutthroat competition with emerging players like Bangladesh andVietnam, has made margins in the exporting business fairlyunattractive.

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3. Market concentration

Pakistan’s export market lacks diversification as more than 50% ofexports rely on only six markets (USA, China, Afghanistan, UAE,UK and Germany).

4. Lack of Value Addition

Pakistan’s exports are dominated by primary and intermediate goodsrather than valueadded finished products, for instance 74% of fooditems and 40% exports of textiles are primary commodities. There isminimal value enhancement and value creation through branding anddesign innovation.

5. Narrow Export Basket

Pakistan’s exports are highly concentrated in few items like cotton& cotton manufactures, leather, rice, and few more items. The firstthree categories of exports account for 71.5% of total exports duringJulyMarch FY2016 with cotton & cotton manufactures alonecontributing 58.1%.

6. Appreciated Currency

In the international market, many exporting nations have nearlyengaged in a “currency war” by letting their exchange rate weaken inorder to undercut their competitors and steal market share. SinceNovember 2013, many currencies have significantly depreciated –Indian Rupee 7%, Chinese Yuan 8%, South Korean Won 10%,Thai Baht 11%, Sri Lankan Rupee 12%, Euro 20% and BrazilianReal 51%. In contrast, Pakistani Rupee has appreciated by 3%during the same period which has made Pakistani exports lesscompetitive.

Exogenous Factors

1. Economic Slowdown

The slowdown in the economies of Pakistan’s major importingpartners – China and the EU is another factor. China has experiencedlowest growth over the last 25 years that effect demand for consumeritems like seafood, textile and leather products.

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2. Shift in Demand

China has continued to reduce its demand for Pakistani yarn andfabric as competing countries are undercutting their prices significantly.Another significant factor is that China’s import is now more inclinedtowards hightech products instead of lowtech products like textilesand footwear.

3. Change of taste and preferences

Shrinking global demand has hurt exports of textile and leather sectorthe most. In recent years, market for manmade fiber products isexpanding at a fast pace, however, Pakistan has failed to diversify itsproduct range.

4. Price Hike

Tea import has increased primarily due to a rise in prices. Global teaprices remained strong because of production shortfalls in two of theworld’s largest exporters: Kenya and India.

Product Specific factors

1. Phasing out Petroleum Top Naphta

Oil refineries i.e. NRL, PRL and ARL and Byco were given targetsto install isomerization projects at their refineries for upgradation ofmotor gasoline. After installation of these units, these refineries arenow being able to utilize light and medium Naphta (75% of the totalproduction), resulting in sharp decline in export figures.

2. Jewellery Regulations

The jewellery export was initially regulated under ‘Entrustment’ andthe ‘Self Consignment’ schemes which envisaged duty free import ofgold for its subsequent reexport after addition. With tightening ofthe regulatory regime to check the abuse of these schemes for moneylaundering and exchange rate manipulations, the export statistics havebeen corrected downwards.

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3. Lower production of Agri-Products

The decline in production of key agriculture products like cotton(37% during 201 5), rice and sugarcane also brought constraints inthe export of agricultural products

4. Cement crisis

Cement exports declined mainly as a result of lower dispatches toAfghanistan, as Iranian varieties are providing tough competition inthis market. The other factor has been the extension of antidumpingduty on Pakistani cement in South African market

(c) The comparison of exports of Pakistan with SAARC countries atpresent is indicated below:———————————————————————————————

Pakistan’s Exports to SAARC Countries——————————————————————————————

Thousand US$——————————————————————————————

S.No Country July-April(2015-16) July-April (2014-15)——————————————————————————————

1. Afghanistan 1,221,897 1,608,690

2. Bangladesh 601,946 593,413

3. Bhutan 0 0

4. India 253,058 313,712

5. Sri Lanka 207,657 226,331

6. Maldives 6,075 7,450

7. Nepal 791 887——————————————————————————————Source Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

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43. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi:


(a) whether it is a fact that trade agreements have been made bythe present Government with China, Malaysia, Sri Lanka,Indonesia, Iran and Mauritius;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Pakistan’s trade balance hasdeteriorated further therefrom; if so, the reasons thereof; and

(c) whether there is any proposal under consideration of theGovernment to revisit all such existing agreements in order toidentify loopholes therein and make them beneficial for thecountry; if so, the details thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) No tradeagreement has been signed during the present government’s term. However,Pakistan has signed FTA/PTA with the countries indicated below on datesmentioned against each of them.——————————————————————————————

Name of Agreement Date of Signing——————————————————————————————

PakMalaysia Free Trade Agreement 08112007

ChinaPakistan Free Trade 24112006

PakSri Lanka Free Trade Agreement 01082002

PakIran Preferential Trade Agreement 04032004

PakMauritius PreferentialTrade Agreement 30072007

PakIndonesia Preferential Trade Agreement 03022012——————————————————————————————

(b)Unit: Million USS

——————————————————————————————Trade Balance with Indonesia

——————————————————————————————Year Exports Thiports Trade Balancv

——————————————————————————————2012 236 1,351 ()1115

Before PTA

2015 140 2041 ()1,901After PTA

——————————————————————————————

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Pakistan’s trade balance with Indonesia has deteriorated as the import ofpalm oil has shifted from Malaysia to Indonesia being a cheaper source.

Trade Balance with China——————————————————————————————

2005 435 2,349 ()1914Before PTA

——————————————————————————————2015 1.934 11,019 ()9,085

After FTA——————————————————————————————

Pakistan’s trade balance has deteriorated further due to cheaper import ofraw materials, machinery and some consumer items from China. During the period,Pakistan’s exports to China have also registered a growth of almost 300 %.

Trade Balance with Malaysia——————————————————————————————

2006 60 765 ()705Before FTA

——————————————————————————————2015 186 910 ()724

After FTA——————————————————————————————

Pakistan’s trade balance with Malaysia has remained stable after the FTA.

Trade Balance with Sri Lanka——————————————————————————————

2004 134 45 89Before FTA

——————————————————————————————2015 260 72 188

After FTA——————————————————————————————

Pakistan’s trade balance with Sri Lanka has improved since theoperationalization of FTA.

Trade Balance with Iran——————————————————————————————

2004 102 270 ()168Before PTA

——————————————————————————————2015 32 260 ()228

After PTA——————————————————————————————

Pakistan’s trade balance with Iran has slightly deteriorated due to sanctionson Iran which have impacted Pakistan’s exports.

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Trade Balance with Mauritius——————————————————————————————

2006 34 1.2 32.8Before PTA

——————————————————————————————2015 22 60 ()38

After PTA——————————————————————————————

Pakistan’s trade balance with Mauritius has slightly’ deteriorated due todrop in Pakistan’s exports.

Source: PBS

(c) All trade agreements have a builtin mechanism for review with mutualconsent of both parties. At present, Pakistan has initiated the review process withChina, Indonesia and Malaysia. During the review, efforts are being made toaddress the concerns of the local industry and gain further market access forPakistani products.

With Iran, Pakistan has signed and MOU to graduate from PTA to FTAwhich would have a positive impact on Pakistan’s exports as sanctions have beenlifted and payment mechanism has also been agreed between the two both sides.

44. *Ms. Asyia Naz Tanoli:


(a) whether it is a fact that Cuba is interested to develop traderelations with Pakistan;

(b) if so, the investment made by the said country in Pakistan; and

(c) the details of products to be traded with the said country in thenear future?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) AlthoughPakistan enjoys cordial relations with Cuba, our bilateral commercial engagementhas remained limited. At present, there is no formal platform between the twocountries to discuss issues related to bilateral trade. No specific proposal hasbeen received from Cuba suggesting a deeper economic and trade engagementbetween the two countries as vet.

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(b) Cuba made no investment in Pakistan so far.

(c) Top exports to Cuba are Cotton, Cotton Fabrics (Woven), Medical/Surgical Instruments, Made up Articles of Textile Material, etc. In addition toincreasing exports of the aforementioned items, the Government is taking initiativesfor exporting rice to Cuba.

45. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:


(a) the total number of trade agreements have been signed bythe Government since 01-01-2013; and

(b) the names of the trading partners alongwith the financial worthand deadlines of said agreements?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) No FreeTrade Agreement (FTA/ PTA) has been signed by the government since 01012013.

(b) None.

46. *Sahibzada Tariq Ullah:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state:

(a) whether there is any proposal under consideration ofthe Overseas Pakistanis Foundation to launch new welfareprojects for Overseas Pakistanis in the near future;

(b) if so, the details including the mode and locations thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) and (b) The followingproposals are under consideration for launching of new projects for the welfare ofOPs in near future:

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WELFARE PROJECTS

Awareness Campaign for OPs

Design and publish guidebook / brochure for all the intendingemigrants. (work with ILO)

Labor laws of all host countries on website in English & Urdulanguages (initially for Middle East).

Drive to increase OPF Voluntary membership.

One Window Facilitation Centre

One Window Facilitation Centre for OPs and returning Pakistanis:

o 24/7 helpline for resolving immediate problems

o Online complaint registration & tracking system

Social Welfare of OPs

Life Insurance coverage for OPs to be increased by SLIC.

Center for Reinduction of returning emigrants. Support in business,employment and placement.

Increase in number of seats for children of OPs in all governmentand private institutions.

Expansion of free Health facilities to families of OPs.

Diaspora Engagement

Holding of Overseas Pakistanis Convention on biannual basis. Firstconvention planned in Dec. 2017.

Revamping of OPF Website. Make it interactive. Create discussionforums on website. Introduce Enewsletters to all the members ofOPF.

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Coordination with the relevant Government organizations arid stakeholders

Developing synergy by building partnership with other bodies workingfor redressing complaints and issues of OPs, such as:

o Ombudsman office

o Punjab Overseas Pakistanis Commission,

o Supreme Court

Policy proposal for establishing separate Ombudsman office for OPs.

EDUCATIONAL PROJECTS

Construction of hostel at OPF Boys College, Islamabad.

Construction of hostel at OPF Public School, Quetta.

Construction of School building at Mirpur (AJK).

Construction of School building at Dadu.

Operationalization of OPF School.

HOUSING PROJECTS

Process has been initiated for development of OPF Housing SchemePhaseII at Raiwind Road, Lahore.

Planning of Housing Scheme at Kuri Road, ZoneIV, Islamabad onJoint Venture basis with CDA.

Proposal for establishment of new Housing Schemes in various citiesof OPs concentrated areas.

Plan to construct 200 country homes in OPF Housing Scheme ZoneV,Islamabad.

Plan to construct six (06) apartment blocks in OPF Housing SchemeZoneV, Islamabad.

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VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROJECTS

In order to provide better & quality training to unemployed youth,especially children of OPs, OPF plans to establish 05 VocationalTraining Centers at the following places:

o Swat.o Southern Punjab.o Sindh.o Balochistan.o FATA.

The welfare projects will be located at OPF Head Office, Islamabad,OPF Regional Offices at Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Mirpurand Multan.

The educational projects will be located at Islamabad, Quetta, Mirpur(AJK) and Dadu.

The housing projects will be located at Islamabad and Lahore.

47. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether it isa fact that Pakistan has diplomatic relations with all the countries atpresent?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Pakistan has 119 diplomatic/consularrepresentations abroad. We do not have diplomatic relations with countries includingIsrael, Armenia and Taiwan. We have 85 Ambassadorial level missions and 32diplomatic missions at SubMission/ Consulate General/ Consulate level. Thereare 99 countries which are concurrently accredited to the diplomatic missions ofPakistan.

48. *Maj. Retd. Tahir Iqbal:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to statethe steps taken by the Ministry to organise sports and cultural activitiesto create harmony amongst the provinces?

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Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): The sports develop harmony, disciplines, tolerance and fraternityamong youth. To create harmony among the Provinces, Pakistan Sports Boardorganizes various tournaments in which all provinces share their participations.

The following are details of events/games organizes regularly by PakistanSports Board:–

a. InterProvincial Youth Under16 Girls and Under17 BoysTournaments in different disciplines.

b. National Training Camp in various disciplines are organized throughoutthe country in which athletes from all provinces participate.

c. Refreshing Sports Coaching Courses throughout the country.

d. Youth Summer Training Camps are organized in 4PSB CoachingCentres at Provincial Capitals and Islamabad during summervacations.

e. Pakistan InterBoard Sports in which all Educational Boardsparticipates.

f. QuaideAzam InterProvincial Games in which all provinces andregions take part.

49. *Sahibzada Muhammad Yaqub:


(a) the year-wise details of value and volume of trade made betweenPakistan and India during the last five financial years till date;and

(b) the names of negative and positive items of trade between thesaid two countries separately at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Theyearwise details of value and volume of trade made between Pakistan and Indiaover the last five years on commodity basis is placed at AnnexI.

(b) Pakistan shifted from positive list of 1963 items for India to a negativelist of 1209 items in 2011. The negative list is placed at AnnexII. Apart from theitems on the negative list, all other items are tradable between Pakistan and India.


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50. *Ms. Shahida Akhtar Ali:


(a) whether it is a fact that Ministry verifies Degrees ofvarious Boards and Universities; if so, the names anddesignations of the staff deputed at the Front Desk for saidpurpose;

(b) the number of persons whose Degrees are verified in a day andthe income earned therefrom;

(c) the amount fixed for the verification of Degrees separately;

(d) the prescribed criteria to verify said Degrees;

(e) whether any proper seating arrangements have been made forsaid persons;

(f) the number of persons go back without verificationof their Degrees daily;

(g) whether there is any proposal under consideration of theGovernment to make one window for said purpose; and

(h) whether there is also any proposal under consideration of theGovernment to provide said facility on other stations?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Consular Section of the Ministry andits four Camp Offices in the provincial capitals do not verify degrees andcertificates issued by various Pakistani Boards and Universities. They only attestthose degrees and certificates after these have been duly verified by the HigherEducation Commission (HEC) and InterBoard Committee of Chairmen (IBCC),respectively. The following staff members have been authorized to attesteducational documents:

(i) Mr. Sheraz Ali, Director (Consular Affairs).

(ii) Syed Shahid Aziz, Assistant Director (Consular AffairsII).

(iii) Mr. Arif Zaman, Assistant Director (Consular AffairsII).

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(iv) Mr. Ahmad Farooq, Deputy Chief of Protocol, Camp Office, Lahore.

(v) Mr. Adeel Khokhar, Assistant Chief of Protocol, Camp Office,Karachi.

(vi) Mr. Abdul Rafay, Protocol Officer, Camp Office, Quetta.

(vii) Mr. Khalid Khattak, Assistant Chief of Protocol, Camp Office,Peshawar.

(b) Nearly 300400 degrees and certificates are attested by the Ministry’sConsular Section and its four Camp Offices on a daily basis. The income earnedthere from is directly deposited through revenue stamps issued by Pakistan Post,which are affixed on these degrees and certificates prior to their attestation.

(c) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs charges a very nominal fee forattestation of certificates and degrees. For Secondary School and HigherSecondary School Certificates, revenue stamps of Rs. 5/ and for Bachelors andMasters degrees, revenue stamps of Rs. 25/ are required to be affixed prior toattestation.

(d) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is only authorized to attest thosecertificates and degrees which have been verified by the HEC and IBCC,respectively.

(e) Pursuant to the Prime Minister’s directive, Ministry of Foreign Affairshas established a stateoftheart, fully air conditioned Consular Services Hall,which has been functional since October 2013. The hall has seating capacity of200 persons, water dispensers, photocopying facility and electronic token systemfor all applicants. The Consular Hall has eight (08) counters, with one counterreserved for ladies, senior citizens and handicapped persons.

(f) As long as the required prerequisites are fulfilled, Ministry of ForeignAffairs and all its Camp Offices attest all degrees and certificates within few hours.

(g) The Ministry is already undertaking the subject attestation throughone window operation.

(h) The Ministry’s four Camp Offices in all provincial capitals are alsoproviding the facility of attestation of documents. Subject to availability of adequatefunds, the Ministry intends to upgrade Consular Hall facilities in these Camp Offices.

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51. *Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps beingtaken by the Government to enhance trade relations with the countriesof Central Asia?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): In orderenhance trade relations with Central Asian States, following steps have been taken:

Ministry of Commerce through Trade Development Authority ofPakistan (TDAP) organized a Central Asia Trade Caravan/RoadShows in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan in May 2016. Theseries of events were aimed at encouraging Pakistani businessmenand trade bodies to establish contacts with their counterparts and tocreate awareness in Central Asian markets about Pakistani products.

During the two day events at each station, besides a large compositedisplay of Pakistani products, stalls of 40 to 50 companies werealso set up. On the sidelines of the event, B2B meetings, Seminars,Mango Festival, Fashion and Cultural performances were alsoorganized.

The first ever PakistanTajikistan Cultural Festival and single countryexhibition by Pakistan was organized from 710 April, 2016 inDushanbe.

Pakistan has officially confirmed participation in Astana Expo-2017from June 10September 10, 2017 in the city of Astana.

Ministry of Commerce through Trade Development Authority ofPakistan organized Pakistan Turkmenistan Business Forum inMarch, 2016 on the sidelines of the visit of the President ofTurkmenistan to Islamabad. The Business Forum was followed byB2B meetings.

MoU between TDAP and Chamber of Commerce and Industry ofTurkmenistan was signed during Prime Minister’s visit to Ashgabat,Turkmenistan on 2021 May, 2015.

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MoU on cooperation between TDAP and its Uzbek counterpartwas signed during Prime Minister’s visit to Uzbekistan in November,2015.

Joint Business Council between Pakistan and Tajikistan was set upduring Tajik President’s visit to Islamabad in November, 2015.

All these initiatives are likely to enhance trade between the twocountries, which is far below its potential at present.

Efforts are also being made to enter into an FTA with EurasianEconomic Union of which Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz Republic are themember countries.

52. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Textile Industry be pleased to state whether it isa fact that the performance of the Ministry is improving at present?

Minister for Textile Industry:

(SECTION-I)

Despite of all the handicaps of textile sector, the performance of the Ministryof Textile Industry has been improving which can be seen from its year book201314 which is submitted a annexure of this report.

It is the third year in a row that special package for the textile sector iscontinued in the Federal Budget.

Further, the Ministry has been actively participating in trade negotiationsand providing feedback on country specific offer and request lists of textile productsto the Commerce Division.

The Ministry has been actively working with the donor agencies.

Importantly, this Ministry has been continuously raising the issues of thetextile sector to quarter concerned and this year the Government has providedfollowing facilitation measures to the textile sector:

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The Government has allocated Rs. 6 billion for the Textile Policy initiativesfor FY 201617. Moreover, following support scheme would also continue inFY 201617.

Budget Package 2016-17:

Sales Tax of five export oriented sectors namely textile, leather, sportsgoods, surgical goods and carpets has been made part of zero ratedtax regime from July 1, 2016.

All the pending sales tax refunds till 30th April whose RPOs havebeen approved, will be paid by 31st August 2016.

The existing scheme on Drawback of Local Taxes (DLTL) willcontinue in the FY2016 17.

Technology Upgradation Fund Technology Upgradation Fund(TUF) Scheme for the textile sector has been formulated which willbe implemented from July 1st, 2016. Currently, the scheme is underprocess in State Bank of Pakistan.

Duty Free import of Machinery: The facility of Duty free import oftextile machinery will be continued for 201617.

In 201415 the Government reduced markup rate on exports financefrom 9.4% to 7.5%, This rate was reduced in February 2015 to6.0%, and it was further brought down to 4.5% from 1st July 2015and the rate were further reduced to 3.5% wef November 2, 2015.The markup rates on Export Refinance Facility, has been broughtdown to 3.0% from 1st July 2016.

In the budget 201415, the Government reduced markup rate on longterm financing facility for 310 years duration from around 11.4% to 9.0% toallow export sector industries to make investments on competitive basis. This wasfurther reduced to 7.5% in February 2015 and was further brought down to 6.0%on 1st July 2015, the rate were further reduced to 5% w.e.f November 2, 2015.Further, Spinning and Ginning sector have been included in Long Term FinancingFacility.

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(SECTION-II)

Very briefly the performance of various organizations working under thisMinistry is submitted as under:

(A). TEXTILE COMMISSIONER’S ORGANIZATION:

The Government announced the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme(TUF) in the budget of 201617 for which TCO & NTU, Faisalabad are in processof conducting the inspection of Textile Units. The main purpose of the scheme is toimprove overall technological configuration of the sector, remove critical imbalancesin the value chain and achieve compliance with international standards. Out of 106Textile Units, the Inspection of 90 Textile Units has been completed so far.

2. TCO organized Seminar on the “Energy Management in TextileIndustry” on 28052015 in collaboration of Mehran University of Engg. &Technology, Jamshoro, NED, University of Engg. & Technology, Karachi & IBA,Karachi. TCO also organized a Seminar on Motivation & Professional Carrier incollaboration with PKGTI on 21st Jan. 2016. TCO also in Consultation withECommerce Gateway organized a Technical Session on side lines of the “TEXTILEASIA 2016”.

3. TCO collected the CESS of Rs. 8,645,231 (till 15082016) againstthe Target of Rs. 11,000,000 (to be completed till December, 2016).

4. Currently it is looking after the issues of defunct PakKorea GarmentTechnology Institute, Karachi.

(B). PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC SECTOR COMPANIESWORKING UNDER MINISTRY OF TEXTILE INDUSTRY

(i). FAISALABAD GARMENT CITY COMPANY (FGCC)

The performance of FGCC is as under:—

One Building (Category “A”) completed and rented out on18th January, 2010.

Exports of one Building of (Category “A”) was 20102011 0.66Billion PKR, 20112012 0.84 Billion PKR, 20122013 0.96 BillionPKR and 20132014 0.81 billion PKR.

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About 4000 workers are directly employed in Category “A” Building.

About 52%Women are employed.

Building was completed with cost of Rs. 974 / SFT.

Category “A” building fully compliant with Passenger & Cargo Lifts,Fire alarm system, Smoke detector system, Emergency Staircase,Emergency Exits, Fire Hydrant System and with 38 nos. of Bathroomat each floor total Nos. of Bathrooms 228 separate for Ladies andGents.

Category “B” Building

2nd Factory Building of Category “B” was completed and rentedout 1st January, 2013.

Exports of one Factory Buildihy of Category “B” 20122013 are0.324 Billion PKR and 20132014 0.81 Billion PKR.

About 2000 workers are directly employed in Category “B” Building.

Women are employed.

It is self sustaining and the accumulated revenue in saving account ofCompany is 50 million per anum.

(ii) LAHORE GARMENT CITY PROJECT

The performance of LGCC is as under:—

(i) The main factory buildings Category A, B, and C have beencompleted and leased out to MS/. Style Textile (PVT) LTD at themonthly rent of Rs. 9.50/per sq ft w.e.f 72/2014 earning yearlyrent Rs. 35.66 million/ Annum.

(ii) Multipurpose building, Lobby and Hall area has also been leasedout to MS Style Textile (PVT) LTD at the monthly rent of Rs. 9.50/per soft. As the tenant of the building is mainly involved in exportingtheir product therefore the target of earning foreign exchange hasalso been achiaved.

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(iii) The project is generating cmployment opportunities as me productionin all me buildings has been started.

(iv) The project is also facilitating the textile sector for attaining sustainablegrowth.

(iii). KARACHI GARMENT CITY PROJECT

The progress on KGCC is as under:—

Land Utilization Department (LUD), Government of Sindh allotted300 acres of category A1 industrial land at deh Pipri, Karachi on 29thMarch 2007 for setting up Karachi Garment City. Full cost of landamounting to Rs. 300 million received from Export Development Board(EDB), Government of Pakistan was paid to LUD, Government of Sindhon 23rd January, 2008.

However the little of the land could not be transferred to theCompany due to a Stay Order granted by Sindh High Court to PakistanSteel Mills. Now this hazard has also been removed as Sindh Govt. hasbeen addressed by the Ministry of Textile Industry with all necessary detailsthat this Stay Order does not affect the land of KGCC. Consequently theSindh Govt. has now finalized the Lease Agreement.

(iv). PAKISTAN TEXTILE CITY LIMTED (PTCL)

This Textile City own 1250 acres of land in the Port Qasim. Theland was purchased with the equity amount of the shareholders & a loanRs. 2.6 billion from NBP. Besides the development work was also carriedout with the loan amount. However due to the acute shortage of gas &electricity in the country, this land could not be developed to make itmarketable for the Textile Sector. Now the Prime Minister has advisedfor its winding up, which is under process.

(v). NATIONAL TEXTILE UNIVERSITY

The idea of establishing a Textile Institute of world conceived by agroup of visionary industrialists in 1954. To realize this idea the Governmentof Punjab joined hands with the leading textile industrialists to form aninstitution of textile technology in Faisalabad and provided 62 acres of

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state owned land free of cost. Koh Noor Industries, Colony Textile Mills,Dawood Foundation and Lyallpur Cotton Mills provided funds to thetune of Rs.2.5 millions, which were utilized for the construction of buildingand provision of other infrastructure. The government of UK provided thebulk of equipment and machinery, alongwith the services of experts underColombo Plan.

In September 1993, the management of the college was transferredto all Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) and governmentreconstituted the Board of Governors taking seven members out of eleven,from APTMA.

APTMA has taken many steps for raising the overall standard ofeducation and improvement of facilities in the college. The most notablehave been: rationalizing tuition fees, hiring new faculty at competitivesalaries, upgradation of facilities, introduction of semester system and newdiscipline like Garment Manufacturing.

The Federal Cabinet on November, 15, 2002 has upgraded thecollege as National Textile University (NTU). Even since its inceptionNational Textile University has been the premier institute of textile educationin the country, meeting the technical and managerial human resource needsof almost entire textile industry of Pakistan. It always retained a closerelationship with the industry and industrialists.

SALIENT ACHIEVEMENTS

3470 BS Textile Engineers produced to date.60 MS Textile Engineers produced to date.85% Top technical and managerial positions in the textile industry.27 New products developed for the industry in 2014.1100 Textile products tested for the industry in 2014.102 Impact factor publications in 2014.3 International conferences held in the last five years.

No funding has been received by NTU to develop a university likeinfrastructure, since its inception in 2002.

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EXISTING TEXTILE PHD are in 11 numbers

Contribution in the Public Sector

PAK ARMY: Development of new camouflage uniform & PLCsPOF WAH: Productivity enhancement consultancy at POF Garment

FactoryLAW ENFORCING AGENCIES: Development of uniform specificationsAIR WEAPON COMPLEX: Development of lightweight bulletresistant

fabricNDC: Development of 3D fabric structures for defense

applicationsAIR FORCE: Training of procurement staffFBR: Technical audit of various mills for FBR

(vi) Prime Minister’s Skill Development Programe for TextileIndustry

A project namely “Prime Minster’s Skill Development Program for TextileIndustry 201418 is under progress in compliance with the instructions issued byPlanning and Development Division which will be executed with the collaborationof NAVTTC, Islamabad.

(SECTION-III)

STEPS FOR IMPROVING COTTON CROP

The Pakistan Central Cotton Committee is an autonomous organizationestablished under the Pakistan Cotton Cess Act, 1948 for the improvement anddevelopment of the growing, marketing and manufacture of cotton. TheCommittee (PCCC) is thus engaged in agricultural, technological and economicresearch on cotton and its products through its monocrop multidisciplinaryResearch Institutes, Cotton Research Stations, Pakistan Institute of Cotton Researchand Technology and the Directorate of Cotton Marketing and Economic Research.

Varietal Development

PCCC research system has developed 40 elite cotton varieties so farwhile more improved germplasm is going through advanced trials before being

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tested for their commercial release. Staple length of certain cultivars has improvedto 32 mm and above.

(ii) Collection and Maintenance of Cotton Germplasm

The seed of different varieties is preserved for short / long term basis andto be used by researchers to develop new varieties and shared with various local/international organizations/universities for breeding purpose.

(iii) National Coordinated Varietal Trail (NCVT)

National Coordinated Varietal Trials (NCVT) are conducted annually withthe objective of testing promising breeding material/strains, developed by variouscotton breeders of federal, provincial institutions and private seed sector, foradaptability under different climatic and soil conditions of different ecological zonesof the country.

PCCC remained proactive for addressing the problem of seed qualitywhich is the main reason in declining cotton productivity. Various technical meetingsand seminars were held with officials and stakeholders for solving the problem ofseed quality. The coordinated efforts resulted in provision of quality seed upto18,000 MT against the total requirement of 40,000 during the year 201415.

Addressing Emerging Cotton Pests and Disease Problems

With the introduction of Bt Cotton cultivation, the bollworm infestationhas reduced drastically whereas new cotton pests e.g., Cotton Mealybug, DuskyBug and Red Cotton Bug have emerged and posed substantial damage to thecotton crop.

Pink Bollworm Management Campaign

PCCC in order to manage pink bollworm and give awareness, for rainwater management in the cotton fields. Over 54 trainigs were conducted and 500participants and Master trainiers were trained. The participants were informedhow to drain rain water in case of excessive rains in cotton area. The participantswere provided pamphlets and broachers.

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Cotton Leaf Curl Virus (CLCuV) Problem

PCCC has done a pioneering work for development of Cotton Curl Virus(CLCuV) resistant cotton varieties for managing the disease.

Experiments on Long and Extra-long Staple Cotton Varieties

PCCC has initiated experiments on the development of long and extralong staple cotton varieties for production of special purpose quality cotton. Theexperiments conducted during the crop season 201314 in coastal areas of Sindhand Balochistan provinces showed positive result for getting staple length of 30mm and above.

Establishment of Cotton Research Station, Lasbella, Balochistan

At the moment over 100,000 bales of cotton are being produced byLasbela district and it is expected that this research station will increase theproductivity by 10 times (one million bales) in three years by horizontal verticalexpansion.


53. *Ms. Shahjehan Munir Mangerio:


(a) whether the Government of Pakistan assesses the performanceof its Foreign Missions abroad with regard to gauge relationshipsof the country with other countries; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to get support of foreigncountries on the issue of Kashmir?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Pakistan has 119 diplomatic/ consularrepresentations abroad. Our missions have been promoting the objectives ofregional and global peace and security, in spite of challenges posed by the forcesof instability in and around our neighborhood.

2. Our Missions abroad continue to play a highly effective role inpromoting Pakistan’s interests and image worldwide. Their performance is

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monitored continuously with a view to remove any shortcomings and improvetheir efficiency and effectiveness.

(b) Recent killings and brutal use of force in the Indian Occupied Jammu& Kashmir is deplorable and condemnable in strongest possible terms. India hasunleashed a reign of terror against the unarmed, defenseless and innocent civilians,including children, for protesting over the killing of Burhan Wani on 8 July 2016.Burhan Wani was immensely popular among the masses of 10K particularly theyouth. Despite curfews around 200,000 people attended the funeral of BurhanWani.

2. Indian armed forces have shown no reluctance or remorse in usinglive ammunition and pellet guns on the unarmed civilians with a clear intention of‘shoot to kill’. Resultantly, so far, more than 85 civilians have been killed andaround 7000 are injured, many of them in critical condition. Due to pellet injuriesmore than 120 people have become permanently blind and many others havedeveloped partial blindness. Organs of many people, mostly youth, have to beamputated. The pellets, that could not be removed from the bodies of the victims,are causing severe lead poisoning, which may prove to be fatal. These Indian actsof barbarism are highly despicable and deplorable and a big blot on the face ofwhole civilized world and humanity.

3. A team of three eye surgeons from India visited IOK and describedthe situation there as ‘warlike’ and said that they have never seen so many injuries(eye injuries) in their life before.

4. Strict curfews are imposed in the Kashmir Valley since 08 July. Mobile,Internet services, and Cable TV remain completely blocked. Indian occupationforces have not even spared the ambulances and hospitals which have beenattacked by teargas shells. Indian forces have been assaulting the injured, theirattendants, doctors and the paramedic staff. Indian forces have even harassed thevolunteers who are providing free food, medicines, clothes and other essentialitems to the injured and coerced them to stop their work. Doctors AssociationKashmir has verified all these facts in its several press releases. India is committingworst form of state terrorism in IOK.

5. Due to prolonged curfews a humanitarian crisis has developed.Hospitals are running short of essential medicines denying the injured propertreatment. Doctors and Paramedic staff are finding great difficulties to reachhospitals; households are running short of food items and essential medicines.

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Indian authorities are deliberately making the lives of all citizens miserable throughsevere restrictions in order to deter the people from protesting. Indian forces haveeven physically and sexually assaulted the families of the protestors. These brutalitiesand oppressive measures are aimed at spreading terror among the masses.

6. The current situation in Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir is in factthe result of the continued denial by India of the right to selfdetermination to thepeople of Jammu and Kashmir as was promised to them by the United NationsSecurity Council in its numerous resolutions 68 years ago. The current uprising isnot an isolated incident but a manifestation of continued deep, widespread andlongheld alienation of the oppressed people of Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmirfrom Indian occupation.

Actions taken by Government of Pakistan

7. The Government of Pakistan strongly condemned the killing of theinnocent people and blatant human rights violations in IoK.

10 July 2016:

The Prime Minister issued a strongly worded statement expressing“deep shock” at the killings and deploring the “excessive” and“unlawful” use of force against civilians.

Press Release was issued by the Foreign Office condemning Indianbrutalities.

11 July 2016:

The Foreign Secretary summoned the Indian High Commissionerand lodged a strong protest condemning killings and human rightsviolations in IOK.

12 July 2016:

Ambassadors of the permanent members of the Security Councilwere briefed by the Foreign Secretary.

All Pakistani Missions abroad have been instructed to approach thehost governments and highlight the human rights violations in the IoK.

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Our Missions have raised the brutal use of force by the Indian forceswith the host governments and local NGOs. They also organizeddifferent events on Black Day on 20 July, 2016.

13 July 2016:

The Foreign Secretary briefed the ambassador of the European Unionand OIC Contact Group members on Jammu and Kashmir(Azerbaijan, Nigerthrough Niamey, Saudi Arabia and Turkey)

15 July 2016:

Prime Minister Muhammad presided over a meeting of the FederalCabinet in Lahore on 15 July, 2016. The Cabinet reviewed thesituation in IoK and condemned the human rights violations. Thecabinet has decided to observe 20 July, 2016 as a Black Day(inadvertently it was earlier mentioned 19 July i.e. Kashmiris celebrateas Accession Day) in order to draw attention of the internationalcommunity towards the brutalities and human rights violations beingcommitted by the Indian forces in loK.

Ambassadors of the African Union and the Middle East were briefed.

In line with Cabinet’s decision, the Adviser to the Prime Minister onForeign Affairs wrote letters to the UN Secretary General, Presidentof the Security Council, OIC Secretary General, High Commissionerfor Human Rights and the Foreign Ministers of the members of theOIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir (Azerbaijan, Niger,Saudi Arabia and Turkey).

20 July 2016

Kashmir Black Day is observed in the whole country and Pakistanmissions abroad.

Prime Minister gave a message on Black Day 22 July 2016.

Our Permanent Representative in Geneva addressed letters to theDirector General WHO and the Director General ICRC.

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04 August 2016

The Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs has addresseda letter to the President of Medicins Sans Frontiers for the treatmentof injured persons.

05 August 2016

The Prime Minister wrote letters to UN Secretary General and theUN Hugh Commissioner on Human Rights on the Indian atrocities inIoK.

August 06, 2016

Through a press statement, the Prime Minister has again calledupon the international community to provide medical treatment tothe victims of Indian brutalities, especially for eye injuries. The PrimeMinister has conveyed Pakistan’s unequivocal support in arrangingbest available medical facilities to these injured people, anywherein the world.

Role of Parliament

Senate, National Assembly and the Kashmir Committee have adoptedresolutions, condemning the killings and brutal use of force in theIoK (Copy attached at Annex-A).

08 August 2016

The Adviser has also written a letter to the Secretary General ofArab League inviting the attention of Arab countries towards thedeteriorating situation in Indian Occupied Kashmir.

11 August 2016

The international community has been called to extend medical helpto the injured in IOK.

15 August 2016

The Foreign Secretary invited his Indian counterpart for talksexclusively on Jammu & Kashmir dispute.

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19-21 August 2016

OIC Secretary General visited Pakistan on 1921 August andexpressed OIC’s unequivocal support to the oppressed people ofIndian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir and condemned atrocious humanrights violations being committed by India in IOK.

26 August 2016

The Adviser briefed the Ambassadors of P5 counties and the EUon Indian brutalities in IOK.

27 August 2016

The Prime Minister approved the proposal of sending envoys inimportant world capitals to highlight the Indian atrocities and to lobbyfor the Kashmir cause.


54. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:


(a) the total number of enterpreneurs sent abroad to participate ininternational trade exhibitions and fairs during the tenure ofthe present Government;

(b) the criteria followed for selection of the female enterpreneursfor international events during the said period; and

(c) the revenue generated by participation in the said events duringthe last three years?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) No. ofParticipants from local companies sent abroad to participate in TDAP managedFairs/Exhibitions is as following——————————————————————————————

S. No Country 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16——————————————————————————————

1. Europe 252 281 324

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——————————————————————————————S. No Country 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16

——————————————————————————————2. Africa 55 66 62

3. Asia/Middles/ 602 515 641China

4. America 130 160 139——————————————————————————————

Total: 1039 1022 1166——————————————————————————————

(b) According to “Guidelines for Participation in International Trade Fairs/Exhibitions” Para 3.2 (2) d:

“15% of participants will be new exporters and women entrepreneurswhere preference will be given to manufacturing exporters. At least onewoman entrepreneur will be encouraged to join every event as an exhibitor/exporter”

(c) No revenue is generated from the said events. The exhibitors areprovided a platform through TDAP to enhance Pakistan’s market share in thecountries where the exhibitions are arranged.

55. *Ms. Zahra Wadood Fatemi:


(a) the total number of used cars imported during the last fiscalyear alongwith the monthly ratio of increase/decrease thereof;

(b) whether the new auto policy envisages a plan to give benefitsto the consumers of the used/reconditioned cars; and

(c) whether there is any proposal under consideration ofthe Government to make regulations to ensure that the used carswill not adversely impact the environment?

Transferred to Industries and Production Division for answer on NextRota Day.

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56. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state thetime by which the attendance system will be made transparent inthe schools of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. Gen. (R) Abdul QadirBaloch]: Efforts are being made by the Directorate of Education FATA to makethe attendance system transparent in the schools of the Federally AdministeredTribal Areas but due to the peculiar Law & Order situation in FATA it will taketime.

However, the Directorate of Education FATA has a sound monitoringsystem at Directorate and Agency level for ensuring teachers attendance in theschools.

57. *Ms. Shagufta Jumani:


(a) whether it is a fact that refunds have not been given to theexporters timely during the financial year 2015-16; if so, thereasons thereof; and

(b) the total number of exporters affected thereby?

Transferred to Revenue Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

58. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state the steps taken by the Ministry for issues stirred up between provinceshaving administrative or economic implications for the country as awhole?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): As per Rules of Business, 1973, this Ministry has, inter-alia, beenassigned the work of General coordination between the Federal Government andthe Provinces in the economic, cultural and administrative fields (Annex-I).

The following three fora have also been setup in the Ministry to coordinatebetween the Federal and the Provincial Governments in economic, cultural andadministrative fields:

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(i) Council of Common Interests (CCI) (Annex-II).(ii) Inter Provincial Coordination Committee (Annex-III).(iii) Standing Committee on CCI (Annex-IV).

This Ministry is, therefore, actively coordinating between the Federal andthe Provincial Governments, as per its mandate, in they economic, cultural andadministrative fields through above fora as well as for constitutional mattersenumerated in Federal Legislative List (FLL) (PartII).


59. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:


(a) whether it is a fact that vacancies for the Community WelfareAttaches (BS-17, 18 and 19) in Pakistani Missions abroad havebeen announced/advertised during the January, 2016;

(b) if so, the prescribed criteria, including experience andeducational qualification for the appointment on the said posts;and

(c) the present status of appointment on those posts?

Transferred to Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource DevelopmentDivision for answer on Next Rota Day.

60. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the countries towhom Pakistan is exporting rice at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The countriesto whom Pakistan is exporting rice at present are listed at AnnexI.


ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI,The 4th September, 2016 Secretary.

PCPPI—2282(2016) NA—04092016—650.

1

(35th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Monday, the 5th September, 2016

50. Mr. Sajid Nawaz:(Deferred during 28th Session)

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to statewhether it is a fact that compensation funds have not been released tothe affected families of Waziristan Operation uptill now; if so, thereasons thereof?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. Gen. (Retd) AbdulQadir Baloch]: The Summary for the compensation funds in the form of CitizenLosses Compensation Program (CLCP) for FATA has been approved by theHonorable Prime Minister on 16th February, 2016. So far, funds to the tune ofRs. 5.00 billion have been released to FATA Secretariat for Citizen LossesCompensation Program (CLCP) by Finance Division.

Finance Department, FATA Secretariat has transferred Rs. 1935.440million for 5576 houses as per request received from Political Agent, SouthWaziristan Agency. Similarly at the request of Political Agent North WaziristanAgency, funds to the tune of Rs.43.680 Million for 210 houses have also beenreleased to Political Agent by Finance Department, FATA Secretariat.

55. Mr. Isphanyar M. Bhandara:(Deferred during 34th Session)

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state the total number of companies whichhave issued bonus shares after the announcement of 5% tax on bonusshares?

Transferred to Finance Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

4. Mr. Isphanyar M. Bhandara:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to statewhether it is a fact that there is no participation from Pakistan in theOlympic Games 2016?

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Minister for Inter Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada):No. Pakistan Sports Contingent comprising 07 players in Athletics, Judo, Shootingand Swimming participated in the 31st Olympic Games held at Rio-de-Janerio(Brazil) from 5-21 August, 2016.

5. Ms. Sabiha Nazir:


(a) whether it is a fact that Pakistani products are high demandedin the Central Asian Countries at present;

(b) if so, the steps being taken by the Government to facilitateexporters to enhance the export?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a). InCentral Asian States, there is considerable demand for Pakistani products such asRice, Sugar, Pharmaceutical / Medical Products, Sugar confectionery, DairyProducts, Edible Fruits and Vegetables etc.

(b) In order to facilitate exporters to enhance export of not only of theabove mentioned products but also other items of Pakistan’s export interest toCentral Asian States, following steps have been taken:

Ministry of Commerce through Trade Development Authority ofPakistan (TDAP) organized a Central Asia Trade Caravan/RoadShows in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan in May 2016. Theseries of events were aimed at encouraging Pakistani businessmenand trade bodies to establish contacts with their counterparts and tocreate awareness in Central Asian markets about Pakistani products.

During the two day events at each station, besides a large compositedisplay of Pakistani products, stalls of 40 to 50 companies werealso set up. On the sidelines of the event, B2B meetings, Seminars,Mango Festival, Fashion and Cultural performances were alsoorganized.

The first ever Pakistan-Tajikistan Cultural Festival and single countryexhibition by Pakistan was organized from 7-10 April, 2016 inDushanbe.

Pakistan has officially confirmed participation in Astana Expo-2017from June 10 - September 10, 2017 in the city of Astana.

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Ministry of Commerce through Trade Development Authority ofPakistan organized Pakistan - Turkmenistan Business Forum inMarch, 2016 on the sidelines of the visit of the President ofTurkmenistan to Islamabad. The Business Forum was followed byB2B meetings.

MoU between TDAP and Chamber of Commerce and Industry ofTurkmenistan was signed during Prime Minister’s visit to Ashgabat,Turkmenistan on 20-21 May, 2015.

MoU on cooperation between TDAP and its Uzbek counterpartwas signed during Prime Minister’s visit to Uzbekistan in November,2015.

Joint Business Council between Pakistan and Tajikistan was set upduring Tajik President’s visit to Islamabad in November, 2015.

All these initiatives are likely to enhance trade between the twocountries, which is far below its potential at present.

Efforts are also being made to enter into an FTA with EurasianEconomic Union of which Kazakhstan is the only Central Asianmember country.

6. Ms. Sabiha Nazir:

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to statewhether it is a fact that the smallest delegation comprising of only 7players was sent to Brazil for Olympics Games?

Minister for Inter Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): Yes, Seven players, who have qualified / got universality placesparticipated in the 31st Olympic Games held at Rio-de-Janerio (Brazil) from 5-21August, 2016.

7. Malik Abdul Ghaffar Dogar:


(a) the monthly quantity of Palm Oil being imported at present;and

(b) the amount of foreign exchange being spent in this regard?

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Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) & (b)Figures indicating monthly quantity of Palm Oil imported and foreign exchangespent on the import of Palm Oil over the last thirteen months are given below:—

ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI,The 4th September, 2016. Secretary.

PCPPI—2282(2016) NA—04-09-2016—650.

Documents

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT ———— “QUESTIONS FOR … · export of Fish & Fishery products from Pakistan to the EU countries in 2013. It may be recalled that the fish processing