1

(7th 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 16th December, 2013

(Originally Starred Question Nos. 90, 91, 100, 117, 122 and 123 were set
down for answer on 06-12-2013)

90. *Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

refer to Starred Question No.37 replied on 16-8-2013 and to state the
country-wise names of those items imported by Pakistan whose
volume increased during the last five years?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: The list of items whose
volume of import increased during last five year alongwith the percentage increase
is placed at Annex-A.

The country-wise list of same items imported by Pakistan is attached at

Annex-B.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

91. *Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total amount of donations given to the Government of

Pakistan by the neighbouring and friendly countries during the
year 2012-13 alongwith the objectives thereof; and

(b) the head-wise utilization thereof?

Transferred to Cabinet Secretariat for answer on Next Rota Day.

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100. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state the projected/estimated import of wheat during the year 2013-
14 alongwith the total expenditure to be incurred thereupon?

Transferred to National Food Security and Research Division for answer

on Next Rota Day.

117. *Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textiles Industries be pleased to

state:

(a) the details of trade assistance being provided by Japan

International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Japan External
Trade Organization (JETRO) to Pakistan at present;

(b) the steps taken by the said Government to develop the trade
between Japan and Pakistan; and

(c) the details of volume of trade between Japan and Pakistan at

present?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: (a) Economic Affairs

Division is responsible for coordination and monitoring of economic, financial and
technical assistance provided for trade amongst others.

(b) Private Sector Coordination

At private level Japan Pakistan Business Coordination Committee and

Pakistan Japan Business Forum are actively pursuing the ways and means to enhance
the bilateral trade through meetings and dialogues; last meeting of the forum was
held in March, 2012.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

In pursuance of decisions taken by business forum JETRO has initiated

study to assess the economic viability of concluding Free Trade Agreement between
Pakistan and Japan.
 3

Lifting of Ban on Mango and Kinnow

After successfully lifting of ban and launching of Pakistani mangoes in the

Japanese market, we are pursuing with the Japanese Government for lifting of Ban
on fresh Kinnows from Pakistan.

Visit of Japanese Delegates

Over 45 companies from Japan participated during the EXPO Pakistan

2013.

(c) During 2012-13, the volume of trade between Pakistan and Japan
was USD 2.2 billion. Pakistan’s exports to Japan are USD 166 million and
Pakistan’s imports from Japan are USD 2.03 billion. (Details attached as
Annex-A).

Pakistan’s major exports to Japan are cotton yarn, cotton fabric, crude
vegetable materials, leather etc;

While major imports of Pakistan from Japan are Road vehicles and their
parts, machinery (all sorts), iron and steel manufacturing thereof, chemical material
and product etc.
Annex-A
Pakistan’s top exports to the Japan
Thousand US$
———————————————————————————————————————————
Commodity 2012-2013 2011-2012 % Change
———————————————————————————————————————————
Japan 166 564 202,545 -17.8
COTTON YARN 43,369 58,754 -26.2
COTTON FABRICS (WOVEN) 24,119 31,905 -24.4
ORES & CONSES OF NON-FER MET & SCR 13,942 8,964 55.5
ARTI OF APPAREL&CLOTH KNIT/CHROCH 10,043 9,065 10.8
MADE UP ARTICLES OF TEXTILE MAT. 9,984 7,971 25.3
CRUDE VEGETABLE MATERIALS 9,332 14,979 -37.7
LEATHER 9,071 7,779 16.6
ARTI/APPA O/THN TEXTILE METERIAL 6,034 5,351 12.8
BABY CARRIAGES SPORTS GOODS 5,931 5,690 4.2
FLOOR COVERINGS,CARPETS & RUGS 5,768 5,684 1.5
MEDICAL/SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS 5,336 5,875 -9.2
FISH AND FISH PREPARATIONS 3,368 4,911 -31.4
MANUFACTURES OF NON-FERROUS METALS 3,304 3,027 9.2
OIL SEEDS & OLEAGINOUS FRUITS 2,597 2,089 24.3
HOSIERY 1,842 834 120.9
ALL CRUDE MINERALS (EXCL.SALT) 1,619 1,499 8.0
YARN & THREAD OF SYNTHETIC FIBERS 1,517 2,610 -41.9
MATERIAL OF ANIMAL ORIGIN 1,035 1,076 -3.8
OLD CLOTHING 871 1,016 -14.3
CRUDE RUBBER 829 680 21.9
———————————————————————————————————————————
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Annex-B

Pakistan’s top imports from Japan

Thousand US$
———————————————————————————————————————————
Commodity 2012-2013 2011-2012 % Change
———————————————————————————————————————————
Japan 2,037,378 1,918,134 6.2
ROAD VEHICLES AND THEIR PARTS 740,011 961,371 -23.0
MACHINERY (ALL SORTS) & ITS PART 339,294 375,187 -9.6
IRON & STEEL MFG. THEREOF 273,183 221,445 23.4
PRINTED MATTER 232,939 269 86,494.4
SHIP & BOAT INCL. SHIPS BREAKING 209,862 93,281 125.0
CHEMICAL MATERIAL AND PRODUCT 39,478 48,572 -18.7
CHEMICAL ELEMENT AND COMPOUNDSM 29,456 36,603 -19.5
MANUFACTURES OF NON-FERROUS METALS 21,147 28,105 -24.8
PAPER AND PAPER BOARD 12,691 9,781 29.8
TYRES AND TUBES OF RUBBER 12,512 15,336 -18.4
VEGETABLE & SYNTHETIC TEXTILE FIBR 12,350 10,823 14.1
MESUR.CHECK, ANLY & CONTR INSTRUM 10,886 11,598 -6.1
MEDICAL/SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS 8,751 .8,152 7.3
RAW COTTON 8,187 2,061 297.2
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS/SUPPLIES - 6,845 7,399 -7.5
ARTICLES OF RUBBER,N.E.S. 6,769 7,346 -7.9
YARN & THREAD OF SYNTHETIC FIBERS 6,601 7,729 -14.6
MISCE. EDIBLE PRODUCTS 5,684 6,536 -13.0
PIGMENTS PAINTS ND VARNISHES 5,657 6,896 -18.0
OLD CLOTHING 5,491 5,957 -7.8
———————————————————————————————————————————

122. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state the steps being taken by the Government to explore new trade
markets abroad?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: The Commerce Division

has been mandated, inter-alia, to promote Pakistan’s trade with other countries
and to ensure optimum market access opportunities for our core export products
in global markets. Commerce Division is making constant efforts to increase exports
to following countries through Market Access Initiatives and trade promotion
efforts. Details of steps taken to explore the new trade markets:—

Pak-Vietnam

The Inaugural Session of the Pakistan – Vietnam Joint Trade Commission

(JTC) was held on July 28-29, 2011 in Hanoi, Vietnam. During the meeting, both
sides agreed to strengthen business to business cooperation and improve trade
 5

logistics between the two countries. The 2nd meeting of the JTC was held in
Islamabad on 28-29 August, 2012. During the meeting, both sides agreed on
several measures to further enhance trade and commercial cooperation.

Pak-Indonesia

Pakistan and Indonesia signed a Preferential Trade Agreement on 3rd

February, 2012 and was operationalized w.e.f. 1st September, 2013. Enforcement
of PTA, being the first step under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership
Agreement (CEPA) would be followed by negotiations on bilateral Free Trade
Agreement (FTA) as per the commitments already agreed between the two sides.
Both sides agreed to convene a meeting to negotiate FTA.

D-8 countries

Pakistan is also a member of Preferential Trade Agreement among the

D-8 Muslim countries comprising Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia,
Nigeria, and Turkey. The Instrument of Ratification has been signed by the President
of Pakistan on 8th February, 2012. The Instrument of Ratification has been
submitted to the D-8 Secretariat through diplomatic channels. Pakistan has
completed all the procedural formalities/requirements, on its part for
operationalization of D-8 PTA. The revised Offer List of Pakistan (transposed to
HS Code-2012) has already been submitted to the D-8 Secretariat through
diplomatic channels. The Commerce Division has also prepared a draft notification
on Rules of Origin which will be notified alongside the Customs Notification which
would be issued by FBR after receiving the revised Offer Lists (transposed to HS
Code-2012) of all the contracting parties of D-8 PTA. Besides Pakistan, Malaysia
and Turkey have also submitted their offer List to D-8 Secretariat. D-8 Secretariat
has till now circulated the revised Offer Lists (transposed to HS-Code 2012) of
Malaysia and Turkey to all the contracting parties of D-8 PTA.

Pakistan Singapore FTA

Pakistan is negotiating a comprehensive FTA with Singapore incorporating

Trade in Goods, Services and Investment. So far three Rounds of talks have been
held with substantial progress. The next round of talks will be held on convenient
dates to be decided through diplomatic channels.
 6

Pakistan Brunei Joint Study

A Joint Study Group (JSG) between Pakistan and Brunei has been setup
to explore a possibility of FTA / Comprehensive Closer Economic Cooperation
Partnership. Three meetings of JSG have been held so far and the report of the
JSG is likely to be concluded in the next JSG meeting to be held in Brunei at
convenient dates to be decided through diplomatic channels.

Trilateral Transit Trade Agreement between Afghanistan, Tajikistan and

Pakistan

Trilateral Transit Trade Agreement amongst Afghanistan, Tajikistan and

Pakistan in lines of Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA), 2010
has been drafted and was subsequently shared with the concerned Governments
of Tajikistan and Afghanistan. The Government of Tajikistan agreed to sign the
Agreement with the minor amendment and has convened a meeting to discuss the
draft Trilateral Transit Trade Agreement on February 28th - 1st March, 2013 at
Dushanbe, Tajikistan which was postponed due to non-participation of Afghanistan.
However, the response from Afghan side is still awaited in this regard.

Pakistan ASEAN Joint Study

A Joint Study Group (JSG) has been constituted by Pakistan and ASEAN
to explore the possibility of economic and trade integration. The study has been
completed with positive recommendations.

Pakistan Thailand Joint Study

A Joint Trade Committee (JTC) between Pakistan and Thailand has,

been established at Ministerial level to further explore the possibilities of market
access arrangement between the two countries. The Inaugural Session of JTC
was held in August, 2013 in Islamabad. Moreover, a Joint Study Group (JSG)
between Pakistan and Thailand has been constituted to explore the possibility of
an FTA between the two countries. The JSG has finalized its recommendations.
As per the finding of the study, both countries would commence negotiations for
providing market access to each other’s products under a preferential arrangement.
 7

Market Access Efforts In European Union

Government of Pakistan is pursuing issues of better market access with

EU by securing Pakistan’s inclusion in EU’s GSP Plus Scheme for 2014 onwards.
GSP Plus will provide duty free access to most of products of Pakistan’s interest
in EU. Earlier Pakistan was not eligible for EU’s GSP+ Scheme as Pakistan did
not fulfill the criterion for the Scheme. It required that exports of beneficiary country
must not exceed 1% of EU’s total GSP covered imports (import vulnerability
threshold). It also required beneficiary country to ratify and implement 27 UN
conventions on Human Rights, Labour Rights, Climate Change, Narcotics Control
and Corruption. The Scheme was in place from 2005 to 2013. European Union
has raised import vulnerability threshold from 1% to 2% for the new scheme.
Government of Pakistan has filed an application for the EU’s GSP+ Scheme for
2014 onwards on 15th March, 2013. The applications of the countries are being
scrutinized by European Commission. The Commission will then make
recommendations to European Parliament for enactment of scheme through
legislation.

Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in consultations

with the relevant Federal and Provincial departments are coordinating efforts for
effective implementation of mandatory United Nations Conventions mandatory
for EU’s GSP + Scheme. It is anticipated that due to duty free access in EU,
Pakistan’s exports are expected to increase by US $ 1 Billion per annum. Major
beneficiaries of these concessions will be products of textiles including textile
garments, bed linen, leather and its articles and footwear etc.

It may be noted that presently Pakistan is beneficiary of EU’s GSP Scheme

which gives preferential market access to developing countries on 66 % products.
Of 2300 products which are considered to be Non-Sensitive including many sports
goods, plastics, and’ plastics have zero duty while on sensitive products there are
meaningful reduction on MFN rates including products of textiles. 25% products
of all the products already have zero rates. Only 9% products mostly belonging to
agricultural sectors are beyond the scope of concessions.

Duty free access was granted to Pakistan by European Union as

Autonomous Trade Preference (ATPs) in the wake of floods of 2010 on 75
products. This package became operational in on 15th November, 2012 and will
be available till 31st December, 2013. It is important to note that this package
received still resistance from some member states of World Trade Organization
when it was presented for waiver from WTO law and secondly when it was
 8

brought to European Parliament for legislation and implementation. It was only

after lengthy and exhaustive diplomatic efforts and lobbying that this package could
take effect. It is expected that there will be an increase of US $ 225 Million in our
exports to EU because of duty free access on 75 products by the end of 2013.

Market Access Efforts In EFTA States

A Joint Declaration has been signed in November, 2012 between Pakistan

and European Free Trade Area (EFTA) member states with the view to explore
possibility of entering into FTA negotiations. EFTA member states include
Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. Both sides now have to set up
Joint Trade Committee to explore the possibility of an FTA.

FTA With Bosnia

After the approval of the Cabinet, Government of Bosnia has been

requested to indicate dates for starting negotiations on a PTA leading to FTA.
Response from Government of Bosnia is awaited.

Market Access Efforts In Turkey

Fifth round of PTA negotiations was held in Ankara on September 10-11,

2013 during which both sides discussed their respective request and offer lists
extensively. Pakistani side assured Turkish side that Pakistan is willing to make a
liberal offer if Turkish side is willing to give duty exemption to Pakistan on items
under safeguards i.e. fabric and garment. Informally, Turkish side agreed that after
consulting its local stakeholders it will offer Pakistan concessions on items under
safeguard duty.

Market Access Efforts In Russia

Pakistan initiated the process of entering into PTA negotiations leading to

FTA with Russian Federation. Russian Federation intimated Pakistan that it will
consider an FTA with Pakistan after it becomes a member of WTO. Now that
Russia has been acceded to WTO, Pakistan has reactivated its request for starting
negotiations on PTA/FTA.
 9

Market Access Efforts In Ukraine

Pak-Ukraine Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation was signed

on 09th October, 2009. The agreement is operational now. Pakistan also proposed
PTA/FTA with Ukraine through diplomatic channels to which Ukrainian side has
responded positively.

Market Access Efforts In Central Asian Republics

Pakistan has proposed signing of PTA with Uzbekistan for greater market
access in Central Asia the draft PTA has been sent to Uzbek Authorities through
diplomatic channels for their consideration. Ministry of Commerce also signed an
MOU with its Counter Part in. Turkmenistan during President of Turkmenistan
visit to Pakistan in November, 2011.

Market Access Efforts In Iran

Pakistan and Iran have agreed to explore the possibility of entering into
FTA, which will give substantial boost to bilateral trade. The FTA will be build on
existing PTA. Pakistan-Iran in order to strengthen bilateral trade relations has
established Joint Business Council (JBC) at the level of their respective Federation
of Chamber’s and Commerce. MOU between Trade Development Authority of
Pakistan (TDAP) and Iran. Trade Promotion Organization has also been signed in
January, 2011.

Pakistan-Mercosur PTA

Pakistan has requested Mercosur (Economic and political agreement

among Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela) to resume talks on
Pakistan-Mercosur Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). This will provide an
opportunity for increasing our exports these markets.

Pakistan and Organization of Islamic Cooperation

Trade Preferential System of -Organization of Islamic Conference
(TPS-OIC)

Pakistan has signed and ratified all the three agreements pertaining to
TPS-OIC. Operationalization of TPS-OIC will enhance trade among OIC Member
States.
 10

Pak-GCC FTA

Commerce Division is pursuing Free Trade Agreement with Gulf

Cooperation Council; so far two rounds of FTA negotiations have been held.

Pak-Jordon FTA

First round of negotiations, which were exploratory in nature, were held in

Jordan on 04-05 March 2009. Jordanian side will propose dates for the next
round. Jordanian side has also forwarded the draft text of FTA.

Pak-Libya FTA

During the visit of the President of Pakistan to Libya from 30 April to 2

May 2009, Pakistan proposed to initiate negotiations on Free Trade Agreement
(FTA). The Libyan Minister for Economy and Planning welcomed the proposal.

PTA with Morocco

During the first session of the Pak-Morocco JMC meeting held in Rabat
on July 17-18, 2008, it was mutually agreed upon to initiate and conclude bilateral
PTA. Both side also agreed on the roadmap.

Pak-Qatar MoU during Prime Minister’s visit to Qatar

During the recent visit of Prime Minister an MoU was signed with Qatar
for organizing exhibitions between both countries. Proposal for organizing a single
country exhibition by Pakistan in Qatar is also under consideration.

Pak-Saudi Arabia JMC:

During The 9th Session of Pak Saudi Arabia Joint- Ministerial Commission
(JMC) held on 26th Sep, 2012, in Islamabad, Both delegations felt the need for
an early resumption of talks between concerned authorities in both countries within
three months so that the draft agreement which aims at promotion and protection
of investments in both countries could be finalized. As a follow up of 9th JMC a
review meeting with Saudi delegation was also held on 26th March, 2013 in
Islamabad. It was decided that, General Body of Investment in Saudi Arabia and
Board of Investment of Pakistan will exchange copies of the draft agreement on
promotion and protection of investment so that both sides can deliberate on the
 11

final version. The agenda of the inter-ministerial meeting is to review the draft
agreement agreed by the stakeholders in 2010, before forwarding it to the Saudi
side.

Pak-UAE JMC

11th Session of Pak-UAE meeting was held on 6-7th November, 2013.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi were also requested to provide the requisite information
which has now been received and is under process. Pakistan has two trade officers
posted at UAE-Commercial Counselor in Dubai and Commercial Secretary at
Abu Dhabi for finding new avenues for Pakistani Export products. TDAP
participated in prestigious international exhibitions over the world to introduce
Pakistani products;

Pak-Qatar JMC

In 2nd Session of Pakistan – Qatar Joint Ministerial Commission held on

22nd and 23rd February’2012 in Islamabad. It was decided by both sides to
encourage the Organization of trade fairs & exhibition in order to promote Pakistani
products and services and facilitate trade and co-operation between the business
communities of both countries. The Qatari side supported the organization of a
Pakistani trade fair in Doha in 2012. FPCCI is interested in organizing an exclusive
Pakistani exhibition in collaboration with our counterparts in Doha, Qatar. Beside
FPCCI would like to participate in their annual event where we intend to send
exhibitors for B2C. 3rd Session of Pak-Qatar is likely to be held on 18th
Feb, 2014.
International Exhibitions
Year 2009-2010 = 62
Year 2010-2011 = 88
Year 2011-2012 = 82
Year 2012-2013 = 88

Trade Diplomacy:

African Region:

Pakistan is also a member of Preferential Trade Agreement among the

D-8 Muslim countries comprising Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia,
 12

Nigeria, and Turkey. The Cabinet in its meeting held on 8th December, 2011
approved the ratification of the Agreement.

Pak- Mauritius PTA/FTA.

Currently Pakistan and Mauritius have an operational Preferential Trade

Agreement leading towards a Free Trade Agreement. Since - 2008 three meetings
have been held to convert this PTA into an FTA.

PTA with other African Countries;

Commerce Division is also pursuing PTA with Tunisia, South African

Customs Union and East African Community.

There is substantial potential of Pakistani products in Sudan specially rice,

wheat, maize, fruits, poultry pharmaceuticals, textile products, marble items and
products from steel sector.

Trade in Services with Sudan;

In the area of trade -in services there are various opportunities in the
sectors of IT & communication, educational services, health services and the
Financial Sector. Interaction between the private sectors of both countries through
various forums like Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) / Joint Business Council
(JBC), participation in exhibitions and visits of delegations will help in enhancing
the bilateral trade.

(i) Pakistan and Sudan have a Joint Ministerial Commission established

in July 1991, so far two rounds have been held, last session of the
JMC was held in 2006. There is a need to frequently hold the JMC
sessions to enhance cooperation in different areas.

(ii) TDAP regularly participate in Khartoum International Trade Fair.

(iii) TDAP has included Sudan in the list of priority markets.

(iv) Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) is planning

to hold a single country exhibition on their own expense in Sudan,
for which TDAP has already made reference to the Mission and the
issue is under active consideration.
 13

(v) BOI, Pakistan and its Counterpart in Sudan are negotiating an

Agreement on promotion and protection of Investment.

(vi) BOI Pakistan and Sudan Investment Promotion Authority are also
negotiating an MOU on technical cooperation.

(vii) A delegation of Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)

visited Sudan from 3rd to 7th March, 2012. During the visit, the
delegation held meeting with various ministries/organization, and
business groups. As Pakistan and Sudan have very low level of
Bilateral Trade, the visit would be helpful in enhancing trade
cooperation and expansion. Following organization / Ministries etc
were visited by the LCCI delegation in Sudan:

1. Sudan Cotton Company.

2. High Council for Investment is Sudan

3. Undersecretary for Industry

4. Sudanese Businessmen and Employers Federation.

5. Minister for Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture, Khartoum.

6. Khartoum International Centre.

7. Garri Free Zone.

8. GIAD Engineering Factory.

9. Governor of Khartoum

10. MOU signing ceremony between LCCI and Business

Federation of the State of Khartoum, at Governor House,
Khartoum.

11. MOU Signing Ceremony between LCCI and Business

Federation of the State of Khartoum at Governor House,
Khartoum.
 14

Foreign Trade Wing of the Commerce Division makes efforts in order to

gain Market access in different regions. In pursuance of increasing Market Access
FT Wings of the Commerce Division works in liaison with Commercial Sections
abroad and Ministries of Commerce of different countries and organizations to
initiate bilateral and multilateral trade agreements including Preferential Trade
Agreements, Free Trade Agreements and other agreements to enhance trade and
cooperation between Pakistan and different countries.

123. Lapsed under Rule 247(3).

324. *Dr. Arif Alvi:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resources

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the modalities under consideration of the Government

to facilitate Overseas Pakistanis to cast vote during elections;

(b) whether it is a fact that it is highly inconvenient for Overseas

Pakistanis in the Middle East, US, UK and Europe to cast vote
in the embassies and consulates over there; if so, the alternative
mechanism being considered therefor;

(c) whether it is also a fact that it is difficult to forward election

materials to Overseas Pakistanis;

(d) if so, whether other modalities like distance electronic voting

system is being considered; and

(e) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the

Government regarding proportional representation for Overseas
Pakistanis to vote for parties rather than candidates in view of
above problems; if so, the details thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Rights (Pir Syed

Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : (a) ECP has no knowledge about it.

(b) Yes.

(c) Yes.
 15

(d) It is not in the knowledge of ECP.

(e) ECP is not aware of any such proposal.

In order to facilitate Overseas Pakistanis to exercise their right of vote

from abroad, an Ordinance No. IV of 2013 was promulgated by the President on
9-5-2013 pursuant to the directions of Hon’able Supreme Court ot Pakistan. As
per sub-section (2) of Section 1, the Ordinance was to take effect on the date or
dates to be notified by the Election Commission in the official Gazette. Since the
General Elections were scheduled to be held on 11th May, 2013, the Election
Commission did not consider it appropriate to notify such date. The aforesaid
Ordinance has now been laid in the Senate.

325. *Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

refer to Starred Question No.36 replied on 16-8-2013 and to state the
year and country-wise total quantity of wheat and rice exported during
the last five financial years alongwith the details thereof?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: The year wise total
quantity of wheat and rice exported during the last five financial years is placed at
annex-I and annex-II respectively.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

326. *Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to refer to Starred

Question No.41 replied on 16-08-2013 and to state:

(a) the problems generally being faced by Pakistanis residing in

European countries; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to resolve those

problems?
 16

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The problems generally faced by

Pakistanis in European countries include legal issues stemming from human
smuggling and illegal immigration; hardships in integrating into European society
due to language and cultural barriers; lengthy process of renunciation of nationality;
non availability of MRP (Machine Readable Passports) in various Missions; and
lack of job opportunities due to the ongoing economic recession in Europe.

(b) The Missions remain in touch with the members of the community in
order to receive inputs while constantly endeavoring to resolve different issues.
Some Missions (for example France) have successfully managed to eliminate the
condition of reentry visa for Pakistanis by negotiating with the host governments.
Many Missions have computerized their system of record keeping ensuring the
applicants get a response as quickly as possible.

327. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of wanted Pakistanis in Afghanistan at present;

and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government for repatriation thereof?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) There is a Pakistani national namely

Mr. Rooh Ullah wanted in the murder case of Muhamad Sardar Khan, Advocate
and former Attorney General of Pakistan, in Afghanistan.

(b) The Embassy of Pakistan has been consistently taking up the matter
with Afghanistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior and also with
the Presidential palace for the arrest and repatriation of the accused.

328. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state the steps being taken by the Government to enhance exports,
except textile goods, of the country?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: Government of Pakistan

has taken following steps to enhance exports, except textile goods, of the country:—
 17

• Concessionary financing, duty free import of raw material under

temporary importation scheme/Duty Tax Remission on Exports
(DTRE), concessions in duty/taxes on import of machinery and raw
material of priority export sectors.

• Through active trade diplomacy, Government is trying to get better

market access for the local businesses in international markets by
concluding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Trade
Agreements (PTAs) with different countries.

• Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is undertaking

various export promotional activities through trade exhibitions and
delegations.

329. *Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state:

(a) the country-wise total number of trade agreements signed by

Pakistan with other countries during current year alongwith
the head-wise details thereof; and

(b) the names alongwith the details of the agreements which are
formally being implemented or have been implemented?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: (a) No new Agreement

has been signed by Pakistan during the current financial year.

(b) The following agreements have been implemented:

Pak-China FTA

 Pakistan signed FTA in Goods with China in November 2006 and is

operational from July 1, 2007.

 The Agreement on Trade in Services between Pakistan and China

was signed on 21st February 2009. The Agreement is operational
from 10th October 2009.
 18

Pak-Malaysia FTA

 Pakistan FTA with Malaysia was signed on November 8, 2007 and

is operational from January 1, 2008. This agreement is Pakistan’s
first comprehensive FTA incorporating Trade in Goods, Trade in
Services, Investment and Economic Cooperation. This FTA is
Malaysia’s first bilateral FTA with any South Asian country.

Pak-Iran PTA:

 Pakistan Iran Preferential Trade Agreement was signed on 4th March,

2004 and became operational on 1St September, 2006.

Pak-Indonesia PTA:

 Pakistan Indonesia Preferential Trade Agreement was signed on 3rd

February, 2012 and operationalized w.e.f 1st September, 2013.

South Asia Free trade Agreement (SAFTA)

 The Agreement on South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) was signed
during the 12th SAARC Summit held at Islamabad on 6th January,
2004 and became operational on 1st July,2006.

The agreements being implemented:

ECO Trade Agreement (ACOTA)

 ECO Trade Agreement was signed in the 2nd Ministerial Meeting

on Commerce/Foreign Trade on July 17, 2003 by 5 out of 10 ECO
member states namely Pakistan, Iran, turkey, Afghanistan and
Tajikistan.
 19

D-8 PTA

 Preferential Trade Agreement among D-8 Muslim countries was

signed on 13th May 2006. The Instrument of Ratification has been
signed by the President of Pakistan on 8th February, 2012. Pakistan
has completed all the procedural formalities/requirements, on its part
for operationalization of D-8 PTA.

ISLAMABAD: KARAMAT HUSSAIN NIAZI,

The 15th December, 2013. Secretary.

PCPPI—5789(13) NA—15-12-2013—700.
 1

7th Session

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Monday, the 16th December, 2013

(Originally Unstarred Question Nos. 20, 69, 76, 79, 82, 90, 94, 98, 107,
108, and 110 were set down for answer on 06-12-2013)

20 Mahreen Razaque Bhutto:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state the region-wise names of products being promoted for exports
at present?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: Ministry of Commerce

has announced Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF) -2012-15 to provide
broad spectrum support for various products and diversify our export basket. In
order to boost exports from relatively less developed areas of the country, regional
perspective has also been kept under consideration and following steps have been
announced for value addition of the export products:

i. Subsidizing 50% cost of plant and machinery for establishing

processing plants for fruits and vegetables in Gilgit Baltistan (GB).

ii. Mark-up subsidy @ 50% of the prevailing mark-up rate for setting
up of Meat processing plants in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
(KPK) and FATA.

iii. To control un-scientific and explosive based orthodox mining,

Government will provide Mark-up subsidy @ 100% of the
prevailing mark-up rate on the installation of wire saw cutting machines
and 50% subsidy on cost of wire saw cutting machinery in KPK,
GB and Balochistan.
 2

iv. Government will provide 50% subsidy in the cost of plant and
machinery for dates and olive processing, which will enhance
production and processing of dates in Khairpur, Dhaki, D.I.Khan,
D.G.Khan, Turbat, Pungora and Washak and production and
processing of Olives in KPK, Balochistan and GB.

69. Dr. Arif Alvi:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Government has approved a plan

for expansion of the American Embassy in Islamabad; and

(b) whether it is a also a fact that 5000 persons are to be

accommodated therein?

Reply not received.

76. Shagufta Jumani:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the number of projects completed by Workers Welfare Fund

during the year 2012-13 alongwith the details thereof;

(b) the name of company which prepared feasibility report of hospital

in Islamabad under the said Fund alongwith payment made
therefor; and

(c) whether bids for the said project/hospital have been invited; if
so, the names of company to whom contract has been awarded
alongwith the amount thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : (a) No project has been
completed by Workers Welfare Fund during the year 2012-13.

(b) The feasibility report for the Construction of 500 Beds Teaching
Hospital, Medical and Dental College at Islamabad was prepared by M/S Langdon
 3

Wilson International, one of the panel consultants with Workers Welfare Fund;
free of cost.

(c) Earlier, the bids of following (04) pre-qualified construction firms

were opened on 31-01-2013 by the Bid Opening Committee.

(i) M/s JV-CSCEC MATRACON

(ii) M/s Technical Associates (Pvt) Ltd.
(iii) M/s Izhaar Construction (Pvt) Ltd.
(iv) M/s Habib Rafiq (Pvt) Ltd.

Keeping in view the high rates quoted by the bidders above the Engineer’s
estimates, the Bid Opening Committee unanimously decided that the bidding process
may be scrapped and initiated afresh on open bidding competition. The re-bidding
of the project will be undertaken in due course of time.

79. Sheikh Salahuddin:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Federal Government provides funds

for Workers Welfare Board and Folk Grammer Schools presently
working in the provinces; if so, the number of employees of each
Board and School at present, alongwith the details thereof; and

(b) the names and domiciles of the teachers recruited in BS-14 in

each such school during the last four years?

Reply not received.

82. Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the percentage of children subjected to child labour in the

country at present;
 4

(b) the number of employers having been charged under child labour
laws during the year 2012-13 till date; and

(c) the action taken by the Government in this regard so far?

Reply not received.

90. Nighat Parveen Mir:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the location-wise land procured by EOBI in the country since

2008 till date alongwith the rates thereof;

(b) the authorities who granted approval and

made recommendations therefor; and

(c) the procedure and criteria adopted for the procurement of

the said land?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : The Honorable Supreme
Court of Pakistan has taken a Suo Moto Notice in multi billion Rupees scam in the
EOBI during the purchase of proprieties. The FIA has also seized the relevant
record for their investigation which is still going on. Ministry of Overseas
Pakistanis and Human Resource Development is not in a position at this
point of time to provide specific details. As and when the case is disposed off by
the Honorable Supreme Court and record is retrieved from FIA the details will be
provided

94. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the number of sewing machines purchased from the Workers

Welfare Fund in Peshawar during the year 2012-13 till date
alongwith the expenditure incurred thereon; and
 5
(b) the newspapers in which advertisements for the purchase of said
machines were given alongwith details thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : (a) Sewing machines
have not been purchased from the Workers Welfare Fund in Peshawar during the
year 2012-13 till date.

(b) Since the process of procurement of Machines was not started in

Peshawar during 2012-13 till date, therefore, advertisement was not given in any
newspaper.

98. Syed Asif Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state the total quantity of LPG to be imported in the country during
the year 2013-14?

Reply not received.

107. Dr. Arif Alvi:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the steps being taken by the Ministry to encourage corporate

social responsibility in the industrial sector;

(b) the record of worker safety and industrial accidents for the
last five years;

(c) whether laws relating to those issues are being implemented in

letter and sprit; and

(d) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the

Government to amend those laws to make them more
comprehensive; if so, when it will be implemented?

Reply not received.

 6
108. Syed Waseem Hussain:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state:

(a) the names of countries except India from where edible

commodities are being imported at present;

(b) the details of expenditures incurred thereon during the year 2012-
13 till date; and

(c) the procedure adopted to check the quality of the said

commodities before their introduction in the market?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: (a) The list showing
the name of countries except India from where edible commodities are being
imported at present is placed at Annex-A.

(b) The details of expenditures incurred thereon during the year 2011-12
and 2012-13 are placed at Annex-B.

(c) According to Import Policy Order, imports of all edible products is

subject to following conditions:

(i) It must be fit for human consumption;

(ii) They shall be free of any haram element or ingredients;

(iii) Edible products shall have atleast 50% of the shelf life, calculated
from the date of filing of Import General Manifest (IGM);

(iv) Where conditions (iii) above are not printed on the packing, certificate
issued by the manufacturers of these conditions shall be accepted by
Customs Authorities;

(v) That, in case of meat, it was obtained from Halal animals and
slaughtered in accordance with Islamic injunctions;

(vi) Import of edible oil in bulk quantity, shall be on landed weight and
quality basis.
 7

In addition to above, where applicable certification from Plant Protection

Department and Quarantine Department are also pre-requisite for import of edible
products.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

110. Lapsed under Rule 247(3).

360. Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state
the inaccessible areas in FATA at present?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions (Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Abdul
Qadir Baloch): There is no inaccessible area in FATA.

However, restrain is required to be observed for casual visitors to the

area due to peculiar existing security environments.

361. Shagufta Jumani:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry be pleased to

state:

(a) the prescribed procedure to import vehicles for disabled persons

alongwith the concession in tax being given therefor at present;

(b) whether the Ministry has ever launched any campaign for the
awareness of the disabled persons therefor; if so, when; and

(c) the details including make, model, value and the name of the
importer of the vehicles imported for disabled persons since 2010
till date?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry: (a) The prescribed

procedure to import vehicles under disabled persons scheme is placed at
(Annex-A). The car: imported by disabled persons are exempted from the customs
duty.
 8

(b) The Commerce Division has uploaded the information regarding the
disabled person scheme alongwith the application forms on its website to facilitate
the disabled persons Furthermore, the National Council for Rehabilitation of Disable
Person (NCRDP) working under Capital Administration Development Division
(CAD) is instrumental in creating awareness of Disabled Persons Scheme.

(c) The data on imported vehicles under disabled person scheme is

maintained by the customs authorities. Therefore this part relates to the Federal
Board of Revenue (FBR).

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

362. Shagufta Jumani:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Labour Attaches posted in various countries

at present alongwith name of countries, name of Labour Attaches
and their posting tenure;

(b) the details of posts of Labour Attaches lying vacant abroad at

present;

(c) the method of recruitment of Labour Attaches; and

(d) whether there is a provincial quota therefor; if so, the details

thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : (a) The country-wise
detail, total number, names and tenure of Community Welfare Attaches are at
Annex-I.

(b) Four posts of Community Welfare Attaches are vacant at New York
(USA), Pretoria (South Africa), Athens (Greece) and Jeddah-I (Saudi Arabia).

(c) The detail is at Annex-II.

(d) There is no provincial quota for selection of Community Welfare

Attaches.
 9
Annex-I
MINISTRY OF OVERSEAS PAKISTANIS & HRD
LIST OF COMMUNITY WELFARE ATTACHES
On 29-11-2013
——————————————————————————————————————————
S. No. Country Station Name Date of Tenure
joining
———————————————————————————————————————————

1 South Korea (1) Seoul Mr. Muhammad Hummair 04/01/2011 02 years

Karim, 10 months
Counsellor (BS-19)

2 Kuwait (2) Kuwait Mr.Noor Ud Din 22/04/2013 07 months

2nd Secretary (BS-18)

3 Norway (3) Oslo Mr.Muhammad Saleem, 15/01/2011 02 years

1st Secretary (BS-18) 10 months

4 Malaysia (4) Kuala Syed Azhar Raza Hashmi, 13/04/2013 07 months

Lumpur Counsellor (Private Sector)

5 Oman (5) Muscat Mr.Shahid Javed, 20/01/2011 02 years

1st Secretary (BS-18) 10 months

6 Saudi (6) Riyadh-I Mr.Mueenuddin, 30/04/2012 01 year

Arabia 1st Secretary (BS-18) 07 months

(7) Riyadh-II Syed Hammad Abid, 26/01/2011 02 years

2nd Secretary (BS-18) 10 months

(8) Jeddah-I Vacant

(9) Jeddah-II Syed Tehseen-ul-Haq, 30/05/2012 01 year

1st Secretary (BS-18) 06 months

7 U.A.E. (10) Dubai-I Mr.Haroon Waqar Malik, 02/01/2013 10 months

2nd Secretary (BS-18)

(11) Dubai-II Dr.Riaz Hussain Laang, 10/02/2011 02 years

2nd Secretary (BS-17) 09 months

(12) Abu Dhabi Mr.Ghulam Farooq 18/01/2011 02 years

Longove, 10 months
2nd Secretary (BS-18)

8 Bahrain (13) Bahrain Mr.Maqsood Qadir Shah, 07/04/2012 01 year

Counsellor (BS-19) 07 months

9 Australia (14) Sydney Sardar Balakh Sher Khosa, 04/04/2012 01 year

Counsellor (BS-19) 07 months
(Private Sector)

10 Canada (15) Toronto

Syed Akbar Adil Shah, 20/01/2009 04 years
Counsellor (BS-19) 10 months
————————————————————————————————————————————
 10
——————————————————————————————————————————
S. No. Country Station Name Date of Tenure
joining
———————————————————————————————————————————
1 1 Libya (16) Tripoli Mr.Amir Rehman, 15/04/2012 01 year
2nd Secretary (BS-18) 07 months

12 Spain (17) Barcelona Mr.Aslam Ghauri Pathan, 17/06/2012 01 year

Counsellor (BS-19) 05 months

13 U.K. (18) London Mrs.Fiza Batool, 09/10/2012 01 year

1st Secretary (BS-18) 01 month

(19) Manchester Mr.Sajid Mehmood Qazi, 01/02/2013 09 months

Counsellor (BS-19)

14 Qatar (20) Doha Mr.Rashid Nizam, 21/12/2012 11 months

Counsellor (BS-19)

15 Italy (21) Milan Dr.M.Akhtar Abbas, 22/02/2013 09 months

Counsellor (BS-19)

16 U.S.A. (22) Houston Syed Tariq Shamim, 16/05/2013 06 months

Counsellor (BS-19)

(23) Los Mr. M. Mureed Rahimoon, 18/06/2013 05 months

Angeles Counsellor (BS-19)

(24) New York Vacant

17 Greece (25) Athens Vacant

1 8 South Africa (26) Pretoria Vacant

————————————————————————————————————————————
Annex-II

(I) ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE POST OF COMMUNITY

WELFARE ATTACHES FOR PUBLIC SECTOR (BS-17 TO 19)
• The selectee should fulfill the requirements of the post as detailed in
the job description.
• The selected persons should possess 3 to 5 years experience in
Management / field work or Labour / Manpower administration and
laws or matters pertaining to emigration and welfare of Pakistanis
living / working abroad.
• The selectee should be in the same grade as the post to be filled.
Officers from higher or lower grades cannot be considered.
• The selectee should have an overall good record of service particularly
during the last five years of service.
 11

• The selectee should be at least a Graduate or possesses the technical

qualification required for the job.

• Persons within promotion zone within the next 2 years should not be
considered.

• Those likely to retire during the next 4 years should not be considered.

(II) ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE POST OF COMMUNITY

WELFARE ATTACHES FOR PRIVATE SECTOR PROFESSIONALS

• The candidate should be at-least a graduate in Law / Public

Administration / Political Science / Economics with five years
experience in management, field work or labour / manpower
administration and laws or matters pertaining to immigration and
welfare of Pakistanis living / working abroad.

363. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state:

(a) the expenditures incurred on the construction of Model School

Takhat Bahi, Mardan from the funds of Workers Welfare Board
alongwith the name of constructor thereof;

(b) whether the said contractor completed the construction work

of the said school; if not, the reasons thereof;

(c) the name of newspapers in which the tender for the construction
of said school was published; and

(d) whether recovery has been made from the contractor who left
the construction work of school in-complete; if not, the reasons
therefor?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : (a) The cost incurred on
construction of Model School Takhat Bahi Mardan is Rs.64.76 million. The names
of contractors of the project are:—
 12

(i) M/s Aamir Construction Co (1st contractor)

(ii) M/s Gul Anwar & Co (2nd contractor)

(b) The 1st contractor did not complete the construction work of the
said school. He left the work on his own without mentioning any reason for leaving
the work incomplete.

(c) The tenders for construction of the said school were published in
following newspapers:—

i. 1st Tender
(i) The News
(ii) The Daily Aaj
(iii) The Daily Al-Akhbar

ii. 2nd Tender

(i) Daily Mashriq
(ii) Pakistan Observer
(iii) The Daily Quaid Peshawar.

(d) Yes, recovery has been made from the contractor.

364. Aaisha Gulalai:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state the
steps taken by the Government so far for the rehabilitation of the
Schools and Hospitals in FATA affected by militancy?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions (Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Abdul
Qadir Baloch): (a) Education Sector

Due to the militancy 480 schools have been damaged. Out of the these,
150 schools have been rehabilitated. The remaining 330 schools are being
rehabilitated within the limited resources on priority. It is pertinent to mention here
that most of the damaged institutions have been made functional either in form of
tents or the students have been shifted to the nearest vicinity. Detail is given at
Annexure-I.
 13

(b) Health Sector

68 health facilities were either destroyed or partially damaged. Out of

these 24 have been repaired/ reconstructed. Efforts are being made to repair/
reconstruct the remaining 44 facilities. Detail is given at annexure II & III.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

365. Syed Asif Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the present status of relations of Pakistan with Iran, Afghanistan

and India; and

(b) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the

Government to send delegations through Ministry in the near
future to said countries to improve such relationships?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Pakistan has excellent bilateral relations
with Iran based on historical, cultural and religious commonalities. The present
Government is committed to further strengthen these bilateral relations. Prime
Minister Nawaz Sharif had a very cordial meeting with President Rouhani on the
sidelines of the 68th Session of UN General Assembly in New York in September,
2013, where the entire gamut of bilateral relations was reviewed.

Afghanistan is a brotherly country, and a close neighbour of Pakistan. The

two countries share immutable bonds of history, culture and faith. Prime Minister
Nawaz Sharif places a central emphasis on good relations with Afghanistan, as
part of his vision of a peaceful and prosperous neighbourhood. A peaceful, stable
and united Afghanistan is in Pakistan’s vital interest. Pakistan supports an inclusive
Afghan-led and Afghan-owned intra-Afghan reconciliation process.

The thrust of our efforts is to facilitate the Afghan peace process and build
a comprehensive bilateral relationship marked by a strong trade and economic
partnership. Pakistan and Afghanistan are each other’s major trading partners
(total trade volume US $ 2.4 billion in 2012). Pakistan has decided to enhance its
bilateral assistance for Afghan reconstruction and development from US $ 385
million to US $ 500 million - focused on infrastructure, education, health and
training/capacity building. The two countries are also working on a range of bilateral
and regional projects related to road, rails, energy and connectivity. Despite its
economic difficulties, Pakistan has extended the stay of Afghan refugees for another
two and a half years, i.e. till 31 December 2015, in the firm belief that the refugees
 14

should return to their homeland voluntarily and honorably. Meanwhile, Parliamentary

exchanges and people-to-people contacts are growing.

Government of Pakistan is committed to seeking good relations with all the

neighboring counties including India. We believe that both India and Pakistan would
not be able to realize their economic destiny and improve the lives of their people
without improving relations with each other. The recent ceasefire violations on the
LOC and the working boundary have, unfortunately, affected the peace process.
The situation has, however, been calm since hotline contact on October, 29–2013
between the DGMOs of the two sides.

Pakistan wants to resolve all outstanding issues with India including the
core issue of Jammu & Kashmir in a peaceful manner through consistent, sustained
and result oriented dialogue process. We hope that India will respond positively to
Pakistan’s desire to improve relations with India.

(b) The Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources is scheduled to

visit Iran in the near future to discuss various issues of common interest with the
Iranian side.

As part of constructive engagement, the Prime Minister has met President

Karzai three times since taking office — at Islamabad (26-27 August), London
(29 October) and Kabul (30 November). Finance Minister is expected to lead
the 9th Session of Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Economic Commission (JEC) in
Kabul in the near future.

I have recently met with the Indian leadership during my visit to New
Delhi for Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM). We had detailed discussions on all areas
of mutual concern, including the situation on the Line of Control. Currently there is
no proposal under consideration to send a delegation to India specifically for the
purpose of improving relations between the two countries.

366. Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state the details of foreign visits
undertaken by the Secretary, Overseas Pakistanis Division during
the last five years alongwith the name of countries visited, duration
and purpose of each visit thereof?

Reply not received.

 15

367. Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development be pleased to state the names and designation of the
officers presently working in BPS-17 and above in the Ministry and its
attached departments, corporations and subordinate offices, whose
spouses hold dual nationality; alongwith the names of the countries
thereof?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi) : Only one officer in
BPS-18 is working in Workers Welfare Fund (WWF) an autonomous body of
this Ministry whose spouse hold dual nationality, detail is as under:
——————————————————————————————
S. No. Name of Officer Designation Nationality of Spouse
————————————————————————————————————————
1. Mr. Fawad Nawaz Kiyani Deputy Director French/Pakistani
——————————————————————————————
368. Muhammad Jamal Ud Din:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state:

(a) the steps taken by the Government to compensate the Mahsood

Tribe in Waziristan affected by the operation Rah-i-Nejat during
the last three years till date; and

(b) whether any foreign aid has been received for the said affectees;
if so, the nature thereof alongwith the procedure adopted to
disburse it?

Reply not received.

369. Syed Asif Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether there
is any proposal under consideration of the Governments of Pakistan
and India to establish consulates in Karachi and Mumbai; if so, when
it will be implemented?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: At present, there is no proposal under

consideration of the Governments of Pakistan and India to establish consulates in
Karachi and Mumbai.
 16

370. Munaza Hassan:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state that the role
being played by our consulates and embassies in case of legal action
against any Pakistani Officer or other Government official abroad?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Legal action against any Pakistani official
abroad can be divided into two categories;

(a) Cases against officials working in Pakistan Consulates/Embassies

abroad;

(b) Cases against Government officials who are either based or on visit
abroad but not working in Pakistan Consulates/Embassies.

2. The first category of officials are immune from legal action by the
host Government under Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961. The
second category of officials do not fall under the purview of the Vienna Conventions.
In these cases, the concerned Pakistan Missions abroad generally take one or a
combination of following steps:

• Seeking assistance of the host government through their ministries/

departments of foreign affairs
• Possible intercession with the law enforcement agencies of the host
government;
• Seeking consular access, if the persons is arrested /detained by the
host authorities;
• Possible assistance in engaging local solicitor/lawyer to deal with the
cases in the courts of law; and
• Other possible assistance including contact with relatives back home.

KARAMAT HUSSAIN NIAZI,

Secretary.
ISLAMABAD:
The 15th December, 2013.

PCPPI—5789 (2013) NA—15-12-2013—700.