national assembly secretariat ———— “questions for … · russia in july 2015. the heads...

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(34th 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

Wednesday, the 3rd August, 2016

@75. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi (Deferred during 31st Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Pakistan has participated in BRICSsummit recently; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Pakistan has participated inShanghai Cooperation Organization Summit recently; if so, thedetails thereof;

(c) the details of issues discussed in said summits alongwith theoutcomes thereof;

(d) whether it is further a fact that said summits have given sufficientscope to the developing countries with regard to finance andtrade; if so, the details thereof;

(e) the benefits likely to be accrued to Pakistan in the field of financeand trade therefrom; and

(f) the mechanism put in place to safeguard the common interestsof all the countries involved in said summits?

@ Tranferred from Commerce Division

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Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Russia hosted 7th BRICS summit and15th SCO summit in Ufa from July 8-10-2015. Pakistan participated in the SCOsummit in the capacity of Observer State. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, however,attended the outreach meeting of BRICS at the invitation of the host Russia.

Addressing the BRICS outreach meeting on the sidelines of the SCOsummit, Prime Minister stated that Pakistan valued its interaction with BRICS,which consisted of important countries of the region and beyond. He proposed topromote mutual understanding, cooperation and goodwill through cultural,academic interaction and people to people contact.

He thanked the host, President Vladimir Putin and the Government of theRussian Federation, for bringing SCO and BRICS member community togetherunder one roof as this would go a long way in promoting inclusive and synergeticapproach to economic development.

(b) A delegation lead by President Mamnoon Hussain attended meetingof the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 23-24 June 2016.

Besides participating in the plenary session of the Summit, the Presidentalso held bilateral meetings with the leaders of some of participating countries onthe sidelines of the event.

The President reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to SCO’s Charterand highlighted deep rooted cultural and historic links with SCO members. Hestated that Pakistan would cooperate positively in SCO’s objectives of securityand economic cooperation.

The President also said that Pakistan aims to further strengthen itsrelations with the SCO after becoming a full member. Speaking at the plenarysession of the SCO Summit, he underlined that signing of Memorandum ofObligations was a major step towards Pakistan’s full membership of SCO.

Pakistan’s formal request for full membership in the organization wasapproved in principle by the Heads of State Council meeting held in Ufa,Russia in July 2015. The Heads of State Council had “agreed procedure” ofaccepting Pakistan as a member state of SCO with the consensus of all thefounding members.

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Prior to that, as an Observer State of the SCO, Pakistan has beenmaking substantive contribution to regional peace, security and development.

As the host of the meeting, Uzbek side called for in-depth and all-rounddevelopment of SCO cooperation with all parties. The need for regionalcooperation, economic development and stability of all SCO members was alsodeliberated upon.

(c) On 24 June 2016, as SCO celebrated its 16th Anniversary, theAdviser to the PM on Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz signed the Memorandumof Obligations on behalf of Pakistan with the aim of obtaining fall membership ofSCO at its Heads of State Summit at Tashkent. The MoO was jointly signed bythe Foreign Ministers of six SCO member states, Secretary General SCO and theAdvisor of PM on Foreign Affairs.

Pakistan has been an Observer at SCO since 2005. It has been a regularparticipant in the meetings of SCO and was the first SCO Observer to apply forfull membership. The expansion in SCO membership will enhance importance andrelevance of the Organization as its 8 Members would represent 45 percent of thetotal global population.

At Tashkent, President Mamnoon Hussain held a bilateral meeting withChinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Head of State Council Summitof SCO. The two leaders discussed a broad range of issues of mutual interest.President thanked China for its support to Pakistan for becoming full member ofSCO.

(d) Over the course of 16 years, SCO has strengthened mutuallybeneficial partnership among its members in the areas of counter-terrorism, security,trade, finance, energy, infrastructure, tourism and environmental protection.

SCO development strategy 2025 envisions evolving strategies in suchsummits which have full support of member countries. The concept ofOne-Belt-One-Road is a new model for regional integration and globalgovernance. It is a blue print for regional connectivity entailing massive economic,trade, finance infrastructure and energy resource development with unparalleledeconomic dividends.

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SCO has developed synergies and partnerships with other internationalorganizations, structures and mechanisms, like One-Belt-One-Road initiative, SilkRoad Fund and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to find win-winsolution for all.

Furthermore, SCO consults and shares Pakistan’s perspective on regionalissues to SCO member states and promote better relations with all the members inaccordance with the ‘Shanghai Spirit’.

(e) An Agreement on the Interbank Cooperation (Association) in theframework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization will pursue the objective ofsetting up a mechanism for the provision of funding and banking services for theinvestment projects supported by the governments of the SCO members.

An Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Affairshas been concluded among the SCO member states to promote development ofpassenger and cargo traffic through cooperation in the custom services.

Pakistan shares the perspective that connectivity and development arecritical to progress, prosperity and security in the region. Hence, there is a strongsupport for regional connectivity projects. Under umbrella of SCO, member statesassist one another by providing funds for development projects with the focus oninfrastructure, construction, basic sectors, high technology, and export orientedeconomic sectors.

SCO members also arrange pre-export financing to promote trade andeconomic links among the members.

Members share information on potential clients and cooperation projectsin the framework of this agreement while ensuring required confidentiality.

SCO provides us with a platform for forging close ties with China andRussia, two economic giants in the region as well as four energy rich SCO membersfrom these Central Asian Republics i.e. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan andUzbekistan.

(f) Various Instruments of SCO have already been adopted by themember states such as Charter, Treaty on Long-term Good Neighborliness,Friendship and Cooperation and other Agreements, Conventions, andProtocols in the fields of counter-terrorism, security, combating illicit

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trafficking of arms and ammunitions, organized crime, economic, trade, investment,finance, banking, and agriculture. This comprehensive framework takes care ofcommon interests of all the member states.

Member states of SCO are obliged under an agreement to abide by theobligations in accordance with the principles of respecting the sovereignty ofeach other and non-interference in each other’s domestic laws. Members haveno right to perform any judicial powers and functions within the scope of theright of the other.

All decisions are made through consensus and in case of disputes ordisagreements members settle disputes them through consultation andnegotiations.

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

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the large quantum of Pakistan’s tradeparticularly with neighboring countries is undocumented atpresent; if so, the reasons thereof;

(b) whether it is also a fact that the Government has gaged thenegative impacts of such undocumented trade on nationalexchequer/trade; if so, the details; if not the reasons thereof;and

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

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Pakistanshares borders with Iran, Afghanistan, India and China. The land border stationswith these countries are as follows :—

Afghanistan Border Stations: Chaman, Tarkham, Kharlachi,Tremengal, Burki, Shaheedanodand, Ghulam Khan & Tank.

China Boarder Station: Sust

India Board Station: Wahgah

Iran Board Station: Taftan

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Pakistan’s trade data with these countries as a whole and trade data throughland border ports is annexed.

(b) There is no reliable method to gauge the precise volumes ofun-documented import/export of goods. No studies have been recently carriedout to measure the impact of un-documented export of goods.

(c) Ministry of Commerce vide SRO No. 344 (I)/2016 (ExportPolicy Order) and 345(I)/2016 (Import Policy Order) regulates the import/export of goods, which are subject to certain conditions as per the provision ofthe said SROs. IPO & EPO are prepared in consultation with all the relevantstakeholders including customs. In order to keep a check on undocumentedexport of goods, the required documents are duly listed in the said SROs. Interms of effective enforcement along the border, the fundamental role is that ofcustoms and other agencies managing the borders.

Annex-I

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


(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)


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

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

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

Transferred to Revenue Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

163. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi: (Deferred during 32nd Session)


(a) whether it is a fact that Pakistan’s trade share in the globalmarket is declining by almost 2% every year; if so, the break-upof annual share of Pakistan in the global market during thelast five years;

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(b) whether it is also a fact that the said trend will continue; and

(c) whether it is further a fact that the Government has failed toaddress real issues thereof; if so, the steps are being taken toaddress issues relating to high cost of doing business, marketaccess and competitiveness?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) Pakistan’sshare in the global market is almost similar in the last 5 years. The share of Pakistan’sexport share in the global export market in 2015 has increased by 3.50% ascompared to 2014, whereas, overall trade share has increased by 5.48%. Thebreak-up of the annual trade share of Pakistan in the global market during the lastfive years is as under:——————————————————————————————

%Share of Pakistan in Global market——————————————————————————————

Exports Imports Trade——————————————————————————————

2011 0.1384 0.2379 0.18842012 0.1328 0.2358 0.18462013 0.1326 0.2348 0.18382014 0.1301 0.2483 0.18932015 0.1346 0.2637 0.1997

——————————————————————————————Source: World Trade Organization

(b) Pakistan’s trade share in global market is expected to increase dueto upcoming economic activity under CPEC, regional trade arrangements andSTPF (2015-18).

(c) The Government is well aware of the real issues affecting the country’sexports, i.e. terrorism, energy crisis, low investment inflows and high cost ofdoing business. The following steps are taken by the Government relating tohigh cost of doing business, market access and competitiveness:

1. Under Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF), 2015-18, severalinitiatives are announced to enhance Pakistan’s exportcompetitiveness and institutional strengthening. A total ofRs. 20 billion will be spent on development of export sector duringthe next three years. The initiatives inter-alia include:

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(i) Support for the import of plant & machinery to strengthen supplychain and encourage value-addition.

(ii) Establishment of Export Promotion Council for Pharmaceuticals& Cosmetics, and Rice Export Promotion Council.

(iii) Performance Based Incentive (PBI) to offset the burden ofhigher utility costs and local levies and taxes on the exportsectors, i.e. per unit price based refund @ 4% of 10% overlast year’s exports.

(iv) Under short-term export enhancement measures, the followingfour product categories are being focused: (i) Basmati rice, (ii)horticulture, (iii) meat and meat products; and (iv) jewellery,with the parallel focus on the following markets: (i) Iran, (ii)Afghanistan, (iii) China, and (iv) European Union.

2. Through active trade diplomacy, Government is trying to get bettermarket access for the local businesses in international markets byconcluding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential TradeAgreements (PTAs with different countries.

3. Bilateral free trade agreements with China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia,Iran,Mauritius and Indonesia are already in place. The opportunityof zero-rated market access in European Union market under GSPPlus scheme has provided a fillip to our exports to our largest market.Moreover, Government is in the process of negotiating tradeagreements with Thailand and Turkey.

4. The leading business support institutions are being strengthened. TradeDevelopment Authority of Pakistan has recently been restructured;Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company is beingrevitalized and strengthened.

5. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is undertakingvarious export promotional activities through trade exhibitionsand delegations.

6. The TEXPO Pakistan has recently been held in Karachi forshowcasing a broad range of Pakistan’s textile products to foreignTextile buyers.

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7. In order to fulfill long awaited demand for reducing cost of doingbusiness, Government has taken a major step of reducing electricitytariff by Rs. 3 for the industrial units with effect from 1st January2016.

8. Drawback of local taxes at the rate of 2-4% of FOB realized valueof enhanced exports has also been announced under SRO 177(I)/2015dated 27th February, 2015.

9. The availability of affordable finance for the extort sector hasconsiderably improved. The State Bank of Pakistar has furtherreduced the discount rate Which currently stands at 6%. The ExportFinance Rate currently at 3.5% is the lowest in a decade.

220. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani (Deferred during 32nd Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether it is afact that Pakistan is not a member of the Information TechnologyAgreement; if so, the reasons thereof?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Pakistanhas not so far acceded to Information Technology Agreement.

Two main reasons for the Government of Pakistan being reluctant to jointhis Agreement are:

1. FBR had shown reluctance as removal of duties may result in loss ofrevenue and,

2. Ministry of Industries and Production is of the opinion that withoutadequate tariff protection, there would be no incentive to set-up IT-related industries in Pakistan. However, Ministry of Industries hassince modulated it’s stance on the agreement.

In November, 2015 Ministry of Information Technology agreed to jointhe Information Technology Agreement. Accordingly, a draft summary was preparedby this Ministry soliciting Cabinet’s approval for Pakistan’s accession to thisAgreement. The same was sent for views/comments of Ministry of InformationTechnology, Ministry of Industries and Prodnction and FBR.

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Ministry of Information Technology and Ministry of Industries &Production supported Pakistan’s joining ITA. While comments/views fromFBR are still awaited, for which Ministry of Commerce (WTO Wing) ispursuing regularly.

31. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whether it isa fact that India is not abiding by Indus Water Treaty at present; ifso, the steps taken by the present Government to raise the said issueat bilateral/International/UN level during the last three years?

Transferred to Water and Power Division for Answer on Next Rota Day.

32. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the details ofgoods imported from the neighbouring countries during the last threeyears?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The detailsof goods imported from the neighboring countries i.e. Afghanistan, India, Iran andChina during the last three years are attached at annex-I.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

33. *Ms. Mussarrat Ahmadzeb:

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

(a) the total number of persons hailing from Malakand workingabroad at present;

(b) the location of the Regional Office of the Overseas PakistanisFoundation (OPF) in the said area; and

(c) whether there is any proposal under consideration of theGovernment to open a Sub-Office of OPF in the MalakandDivision; if so, when it will be implemented?

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Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) As per availabledata of Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BE&OE),approximately 86,864 Pakistanis have proceeded abroad for employment fromMalakand Agency during the period 1981- March, 2016.

(b) OPF Regional Office is located in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

(c) Currently, there is no proposal under consideration for openingof a sub-office in Malakand Division.

34. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:


(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in Iceland at present;and

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

Minister for Foreign Affairs: At present there is no Pakistani imprisonedin the Jails of Iceland.

35. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:


(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in Mexico at present;and

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

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The Mexican authorities havecommunicated names of two Pakistani nationals, detained in Mexico, accordingto the Mission:——————————————————————————————

No. Name ——————————————————————————————

1. Mahboob Ali2. Arif Zaman

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Detained persons are not considered to be imprisoned in the legal senseby the Mexican authorities and pending of nationality confirmation are being forthe time being.

(b) The Embassy, as per practice, contacts the detained persons toascertain their nationality and welfare. The particulars are also communicated tothe Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior for confirmation ofnationality. In the case of the above mentioned persons, our Embassy has askedthe Mexican authorities for their complete details in order to verify their nationalidentity from the Pakistani authorities.

36. *Ms. Aisha Syed:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state the country-wise details and names ofWorker Welfare Attaches abroad at present?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): Ministry of OverseasPakistanis & Human Resource Development has recently selected 18 x CommunityWelfare Attaches (CWAs) for their posting in different Pakistan Missions abroad.Six CWAs have joined their place of posting while five CWAs will join their stationsby 23-07-2016. The remaining CWAs are waiting for endorsement of visas. Listof designated Community Welfare Attaches (CWAs) is annexed.

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37. *Ms. Aisha Syed:

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistani and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state the names of persons involved inMega Land Scandal of the Employees Old Age BenefitsInstitution (EOBI) alongwith the details thereof?


Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) As per FIAinvestigation the names of person involved in the EOBI scam alongwith thedetails is annexed.


38. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether there isany proposal under consideration of the Government to setup a TradeCentre on Pak-Iran Border in the near future?

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Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): At present,there is no proposal under consideration by the Ministry of Commerce toestablish any Trade Center on Pakistan-Iran Border.

39. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:

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

(a) the location-wise academies established for promotion of sportsin the country from the year 2013 to 2016; and

(b) the role played by those academies for promotion of sports duringthe said period?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada):

(a) Pakistan Cricket Board

Pakistan Cricket Board has developed High Performance Centers(Academies) at Karachi and Multan which would be operational soon.Moreover, PCB is also planning to develop such High Performance Centers inother regions in future.

Pakistan Sports Board

No sports Academy has been established by the PSB since 2013 to date.

(b) These academies were not functional during the said period,however the same would be helpful in grooming domestic & young players atregional level. Additionally, domestic players may have standardized practice/training facilities at their respective regions in these High Performance Centers.

40. *Ms. Sajida Begum:


(a) whether it is a fact that the steps are being taken by theGovernment of Pakistan for inclusion in Nuclear SuppliersGroup;

(b) if so, the achievements gained in this regard so far?

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Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) Following the submission of its formalapplication for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) on 19 May2016, Pakistan has undertaken extensive diplomatic efforts to win support withinNSG for its case. These efforts have included:—

Letters by the Prime Minister to his counterparts in all NSG countries.

Phone calls by the Adviser and Special Assistant to the Prime Ministerto their counterparts in those NSG countries which favour anon-discriminatory criteria-based approach for membership of non-NPT countries.

Demarches by our diplomatic missions in NSG capitals at various,including ministerial, levels to highlight our credential for NSGmembership.

Expert level briefings to the delegations of NSG members states inVienna in May 2016.

Briefing at the Foreign Ministry for the NSG members countries’diplomatic missions in Islamabad on 8th June 2016.

Visits by an expert-level delegation to Vienna, Austria, and Seoul,Republic of Korea, during the NSG’s Extraordinary and AnnualPlenary Meetings on 9 June and 23-24 June, respectively, with aview to holding meetings with like-minded countries and coordinatingefforts with friendly countries.

(b) Pakistan’s strong and multi-pronged lobbying efforts have paid off.Our arguments for criteria-based approach, and negative impact of any India-specific exemption on the strategic stability in South Asia and the future of non-proliferation regime, have found resonance among several NSG countries. Thiswas reflected in the extra-ordinary and Annual Plenary meetings of NSG in Viennaand Seoul, both of which remained inconclusive with several countries calling forfurther discussions to evolve a non-discriminatory approach on the question ofnon-NPT states’ membership.

41. *Ms. Sajida Begum:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps beingtaken by the Government to improve the trade relations with China?

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Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Ministryof Commerce signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2006which became operational in 2007. Agreement on Trade in Services wassigned in February, 2009 and became operational from October, 2009.Under the FTA, China has offered zero rated exports from Pakistan onitems like cotton fabric, blend fabrics, synthetic yarn and fabrics, knit fabrics,home textiles, minerals, sports goods, cutlery, surgical goods, kinnow,mangoes, industrial alcohol, etc.

Following the implementation of FTA, the rate of growth in- Pakistan’sexports to China has registered substantial increase. Prior to signing of CPFTA,the volume of trade was approximately US$ 4 billion out of which exports fromPakistan were US$ 575 million. However, at present out of the total trade volumeof US$ 12 billion. Pakistan’s exports have risen to US$ 2.1 billion in the year2014-15, registering a growth rate of 265%.

Further, Pakistan and China are in process of negotiating the secondphase of Pak-China FTA. Pakistan shared its concerns regarding adverse impactof cheap imports from China on the local industry. Both sides are working tofind an amicable solution which adequately addresses the genuine concerns ofboth countries.

Besides FTA in Goods and Services, following measures have also beentaken by Ministry of Commerce to improve trade relations with China:

In order to showcase Pakistani products, Chinese Government wasrequested to facilitate Pakistan’s participation in exhibitions tradefairs in China. China is offering Pakistan free of charge space in all itsmajor fairs. In addition, Chinese Businessmen are invited to participatein Expo Pakistan.

Ministry of Commerce and Pakistan’s Embassy in Beijing arrangeda visit of 100 Chinese businessmen from 18-22 January, 2016 duringwhich China-Pakistan Business Opportunities Conferences were heldin Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. These conferences were verysuccessful in terms of B2B matchmaking.

For facilitating smooth financial transactions between two countriesa Banking Protocol has been signed and ratified. Recently, HabibBank Limited (HBL) has established a branch in Beijing. Opening ofa Pakistani bank in China reflects the resilience of our financial servicesector and also trust of international business community.

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42. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:


(a) the details of the remittances received from the various Gulfcountries during the tenure of the present Government; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to facilitate thoseOverseas Pakistanis who are sending said remittances?


Development (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) As per availableofficial data, detail of the remittances sent by the overseas Pakistanis from variousGulf countries during the tenure of the present government is as below;

REMITTANCES RECEIVED(Million US Dollar)

——————————————————————————————COUNTRY Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year

2013-14 2014-15 2015-16——————————————————————————————

Saudi Arabia 4,729.43 5,630.43 5,968.40UAE 3,109.52 4,231.75 4,365.27Bahrain 318.84 388.99 448.44Kuwait 681.43 748.12 773.95Qatar 329.24 350.21 380.85Oman 530.52 685.71 819.44

——————————————————————————————Total: 9,698.98 12,035.21 12,756.35

——————————————————————————————(b) OPF is committed to render better and improved services by providing

relief to the overseas Pakistanis and their dependents in the redressal of theirgrievances, early settlement of death and disability dues, facilitation to incomingand outgoing OPs’ at all international airports, financial assistance to the families ofdestitute overseas Pakistanis, meeting the educational needs of the children ofoverseas Pakistanis and provision of plots on subsidized rates. These existingschemes are continuously being revised to make them more efficient in servicedelivery for the benefit of overseas Pakistanis. The schemes are as follows:—

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o Financial assistance to the destitute families of OPs in the event ofdeath or disability of an OP.

o Foreign Exchange Remittance Card (FERC).

o Facilitation Counters for OPs at International Airport in Karachi,Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Multan, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Turbat,Gawadar and Islamabad.

o Complaint Cell at OPF Head Office to expeditiously process thecomplaints of overseas Pakistanis.

o OPF takes up the cases with the Employers in the host country ofthose OPs who expire while working abroad for recovery of theirdues/legitimate claims to facilitate the families of deceased.

o A 20-bed Eye Hospital has been established at Mirpur (AzadKashmir) 10-bed eye hospital established at Yaro Khoso, DistrictD.G. Khan.

o Holding of Free Eye Camps in areas of Overseas Pakistanis.

o OPF Ambulance for Overseas Pakistanis.

o OPF - NADRA Swift Centre.

o Relief Activities for war affected or calamity hit areas.

o Assistance in repatriation of stranded Pakistanis from abroad.

o Educational Institutions - 04 OPF colleges & 20 OPF public schoolsall over the country.

o Grant of Scholarship and Merit Award to the children of OPs.

o Reserved seats for admissions of children in different EducationalInstitutions including professional Colleges / Universities.

o Housing Schemes at eleven sites, out of which seven have beencompleted.

o Vocational Training Program has been launched to train manpowerfor seeking jobs abroad

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43. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the details of tradeand economic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Relationsbetween Pakistan and Afghanistan have historically been tense. Cross-borderinfiltration, refugees, drug trafficking, militant groups, and disputes overcounterterrorism policy and dialogue with terrorist networks have contributed toan entrenched trust deficit and have eroded relations.

Yet Afghanistan is Pakistan’s third largest trading partners with thevolume of trade at US $ 2.285 billion in 2014-15. Pakistan is also the main conduitof imports of Afghanistan from elsewhere through the Karachi port.

Despite tense political relations, commercial activities including exchangeof trade delegations continue to take place. In this regard the sixth meeting ofAfghanistan Pakistan

Transit Trade Coordination Authority (APTTCA) was held onFebruary, 14-15, 2016 in Islamabad. The meeting highlighted significance ofbilateral trade and transit trade and reiterated resolve of the leadership of thetwo countries to enhance the bilateral trade to USD five billion and to furtherfacilitate the transit trade. The 7th Meeting.of APTTCA is likely to be held inKabul soon wherein deliberations on review of APTTA-2010 will take place.

The economic relations between the two countries are beingstrengthened through Joint Economic Commission (JEC) which is forumbetween Pakistan and Afghanistan on bilateral economic cooperation in thearea of Communications, Power, Railways and Roads, Customs to Customcooperation, Pak-Afghan transit trade and other bilateral issues of mutualinterest.

44. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:


(a) the earnings accrued from the transit and border trade duringthe last three years; and

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(b) the steps being taken by the Government to increase the saidearnings?

Transferred to Revenue Division for answer on Next Roa Day.

45. *Dr. Fozia Hameed:


(a) the steps being taken by the present Government to increaseprofit through transit and border trade; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to ensure standard ofquality of goods being imported and exported at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) UnderArticle 30 of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA), 2010,no duties & taxes are leviable on transit goods, therefore, no direct revenue isgenerated by FBR from the Afghan Transit Trade. Various other businesses,involved in clearance of transit cargo such as port terminal operators & shippingsector e.g. shipping companies, stevedores, freight forwarders, Customs Agents,Transport Operators, Insurance Companies, Tracking Companies, toll taxcollectors, earn from transit trade which is beyond the ambit of FBR.

2. Ministry of Commerce is the policy making authority whereas theFBR regulates the transit and border trade. Government has taken the followingsteps towards enhancement in transit and border trade with the neighboringcountries:—

(i) Government of Pakistan has acceded to TIR Convention, 1975 whichis soon to be operationalized.

(ii) Another landmark project for expansion of transit and border tradeis the China-Pak Economic Corridor (CPEC). Both CPEC and TIRConvention are expected to expand the transit / bilateral / regionaltrade in future which will have a positive impact on Pakistan’seconomy.

(iii) In order to facilitate importers/ exporters, new Customs have beenopened at:

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(1) Pak-Afghan border station: Nawagai (Bajaur Agency),Khapakh/Ghalani (Mohmand Agency), Teri-Mangal (KurramAgency), Bukit (Kurram Agency), Kharlachi (Kurram Agency),Shaheedano Dand (Kurram Agency), Ghulam Khan (NorthWaziristan Agency), Lawara Boya (South Waziristan Agency),Angoor Adda (South Waziristan Agency) and Khand Narai(South Waziristan Agency).

(2) Pak Iran border station: Katagar (District Washuk-Adjacentto Mashkel, Chdighi (District Panjgoor), Rideeq (DistrictMand) and Border Point-250 (District Kach).

Besides the opening of new Customs stations, the existingstations at Torkham, Chaman and Taftan are being upgraded.

(iv) The Executive Committee of National Economic Council (ECNEC)has approved development of Integrated Transit

. Trade Management

System (ITTMS) project aimed at fully capitalizing the transit tradepotential of the country. Under the proposed project, state of the artborder-crossing complexes at Torkham, Wagha and Chaman willbe constructed, which will reduce dwell time of cargo clearance,monitor pilferage and pave the way for one-window operation atcountry and regional levels. The projected cost of the project isRs. 31.686 billion.

(v) In order to improve border management and to curb illegal trade onboth sides of Pak-Iran border a project of construction of gatealongwith fencing of the restricted Customs area at Taftan has beenlaunched and the tentative date for the completion of this project is14th August, 2016.

(vi) Role of Pakistan Railways is being reactivated with special referenceto transit trade with Afghanistan which will reduce the cost of businessfor Afghan Transit Traders.

(b) Ministry of Science and Technology has been requested for theirinput in the matter.

Pakistan Standards & Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) is mandatedunder Section 14 of Act VI of 1996 to check the quality of mandatory items toensure standard of quality of goods.

23

Government of Pakistan has introduced and implemented Trade PolicyOrder 2015 - 18 to ensure standards of quality of goods being imported andexported vide.

1- Import Policy Order 2016 Notification # S.R.O 345(1)2016dated 18th April, 2016.

2- Export Policy Order 2016 Notification # S.R.O 344(1)2016dated 18th April, 2016.

As per Import Policy Order 2016, all imported goods are subject tocomply with the notified national standards the contents of Section 5(B) (ii) arereproduced as under:

“Import of goods shall be subject to the same National QualityStandards or regulations as are prescribed in respect of similarand domestically produced goods”

Following steps have been taken by PSQCA to ensure standards of qualityof goods being imported and exported:

a. Mandatory items list of PSQCA increased from 90 to 107 items toensure quality of import and export items for health and safety of

.consumers.

b. Keeping in view the importance of import- and export item’s quality,PSQCA has created a separate directorate import and export

- to

ensure control quality of import and export products. PSQCA hasalso proposed inclusion of Packaged Liquid Milk (PS: 5344-2016)

-

and Meat Meal as Livestock and Poultry Feed Ingredient(1st Revision) (PS: 4249-2016) for inclusion in compulsorycertification marks scheme of PSQCA, which have been forwardedto relevant Ministries Divisions/ Provincial Governments for elicitingtheir comments prior to forward the draft SROs to Law and JusticeDivision for vetting.

(c) PSQCA has proposed Foreign Manufacturing License Schemewhich will be beneficial to ensure quality of goods being imported inPakistan.

24

(d) Conformity Assessment Scheme is in place in compliance of PakistanConformity Assessment Rule 2011,

; which is aligned with international

practices to ensure quality of goods being imported and exported.

46. *Dr. Shizra Mansab Ali Khan Kharral

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps beingtaken by the Government for enhancing domestic trade withUzbekistan?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Uzbekistanis a landlocked country with more than 60% of the population living in denselypopulated rural communities. Uzbek economy is the second largest economy inCentral Asia after Kazakhstan with GDP of US$187.9 billion in 2015.

However, Bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan is far belowits potential and presently at the level of US$ 2.98 million in 2014-15.

The main reasons for low volumes of trade are lack of direct connectivity,security situation in Afghanistan and lack of information about business prospectsbetween Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

As a follow up to the visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to Tashkent,Uzbekistan in November, 2016, a Special Working Group (SWG), comprisingsenior officials of Industry, Textiles, Agricultural Machinery, Cotton Export, andChemical Industries were scheduled to visit Pakistan from 24-29 April, 2016.However, the planned meeting was postponed by the Uzbek side.

In order to enhance bilateral trade, Trade Development Authority ofPakistan is arranging an exhibition to be held in August/September, 2016.

Furthermore, TIR Convention, which will provide cost effective, hasslefree transit from Afghanistan to Uzbekistan, is also likely to be operationalizedsoon.

47. *Dr. Shizra Mansab Ali Khan Kharral:


(a) the total number of Pakistanis imprisoned in Turkey at present;

25

(b) the allegations leveled against them; and

(c) the steps taken by the Government for their release?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) The total number of Pakistanisimprisoned in Turkey at present is 37.

(b) The allegations against the prisoners include drug trafficking, robbery,deprivation of liberty and fake documents.

(c) The steps taken by the Mission for their release are as under:

i. The Mission remains in continuous contact with the relevant Turkishauthorities to ensure the well-being of the prisoners.

ii. In general, Turkish Government provides defence counsel toprisoners. However, in those cases where the Turkish Governmentdoes not provide a legal counsel, the Mission, after seeking Ministry’sapproval, makes arrangements for the legal counsel for the prisoners.

iii. As Turkish Courts do not have a Turkish-Urdu interpreter, Missionalso arranges an interpreter for the prisoners.

iv. Once a prisoner completes the sentence, the Mission arranges theticket and travel documents for his/her repatriation to Pakistan.

48. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:


(a) the trade advantages derived Pakistan out of Free TradeAgreement and Preferential Trade Agreements with China; and

(b) the trade advantages China derived under the said agreementsfrom Pakistan side?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): (a) In orderto increase the volume of bilateral trade between Pakistan and China, an EarlyHarvest Programme (EHP) was initiated in 2005-07. EHP provided the basis forexpansion in trade between the two countries. To deepen the concessions, Ministry

26

of Commerce signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2006 whichbecame operational in 2007. On implementation of the FTA, the rate of growth inPakistan’s exports to China has increased multifold. Prior to the signing of CPFTA,the volume of trade was approximately US$ 4 billion out of which exports fromPakistan were US$ 575 million. At present, out of the total trade volume of US$12 billion 2014- 15, Pakistan’s exports have risen to US$ 2.1 billion registering agrowth of 265% during the period. Under this agreement, Pakistan enjoys zerorated tariff regime on items including cotton fabric, blend fabrics, synthetic yarnand fabrics, knit fabrics, home textiles, minerals, sports goods, cutlery, surgicalgoods, kinnow, mangoes, industrial alcohol, etc. As a result of the FTA, Pakistaniindustry has been able to source raw material semi processed products from Chinaat affordable rates. This has improved competitiveness of Pakistan’s domesticindustry and helped grow exports. The consumers have also been able to findwide variety of goods at affordable prices. This has generated healthy competitionin the local market and increased consumer welfare.

(b) Before implementation of the China-Pakistan FTA in 2007, totalexports of China to Pakistan were at US$ 3.5 billion. Following the implementationof China-Pakistan FTA, exports of China to Pakistan soared to US$ 10.1 billionin 2014-15.

49. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:


(a) the details of decisions of the Council of Common Interest (CCI)made during the last five meetings; and

(b) the total number of decisions so far implemented duly out ofthe same?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordunation (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): (a) Detail of decisions of the Council of Common interests made duringthe last five meetings is placed at (Annex ‘A’).

(b) So far 13 decisions have been implemented out of the same(Annex ‘B’).

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

27

50. *Ms. Shaista Pervaiz:


(a) whether the Government is aware of the fact that despitestringent guidelines on manpower recruitments, the aspirantshave to shell out huge amount to the recruiting agents for workvisas in foreign countries;

(b) if so, the guidelines laid down in this regard; and

(c) the measures taken/proposed to be taken by the Government tocheck the rising incidence of malpractices by the recruitmentagencies?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) Government is mindfulabout phenomena of extraction of money from the intending emigrants by thelicensed OEP as well as the unauthorized subagents.

(b) In order to streamline the issue, the Ministry has already taken thefollowing steps from time to time:—

i. All Protectorates of Emigrants have been directed to strictly followthe obligations of Rule 15(A)2 of Emigration Rules 1979 to ensureissuance of proper receipt by the OEP to the intending emigrants incase of any payment relating to their foreign employment.

ii. Trade Test Center activity/procedure for recruitment of emigrantshave been revised focusing on to educate the emigrants present intrade center regarding role of sub-agents mafia / unauthorizedpersons involved in selling the dreams to intending emigrants at suchevents and deprived of the innocent people by extracting illegalamounts.

iii. An online Complaint Management System (www.ophrd.gov.pk/complaint)is already working to facilitate the emigrants in filing their complaintsagainst illegal activities of QEPs contrary to Emigration Ordinance 1979and rule made there under and to take quick action against the culprits.

28

iv. Instructions have been issued to all Protectorates of Emigrants todisplay the banners/Standees at different prominent places atProtectorates of Emigrants and in OEP offices containing informationregarding payment to the OEPs only in their approved offices forawareness of emigrants and overseas Pakistanis.

v. Instructions have been issued to oil airlines and their franchisedagencies regarding “Issuance of international traveling tickets afterProtector Clearance to save emigrants from any unfoward positionat airports.

vi. News Agencies have been directed not to publish overseas lobsadvertisement without the permission of Bureau of Emigration andOverseas Employment and its Protectorate of Emigrants office asrequired under section 9 of the Emigration Ordinance 1979.

(c)

i. Strict actions have been taken against those OEP’s who have beenfound guilty of malpractices.

ii. About 42 OEP Licenses have been cancelled during 2014-2016.

iii. Penalties have been imposed in different cases by forfeiting the amountof security deposited by OEP.

iv. Computerization of the record of emigrants, OEPs and permissiongranted for recruitment of emigrants is under process in collaborationwith NADRA to reduce the malpractices and incidences ofexploitation from the emigrants.

51. *Ms. Shaista Pervaiz:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state whether theGovernment has taken/being taken steps keeping in view of thesituation that has arisen due to continuous and rapidly increasinginflux of foreign goods in Pakistan’s market and its impacts onPakistan’s industries; if so, the details thereof?

29

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Yes, theGovernment has taken the following steps to curtail import bill:

Regulatory duty has been imposed on 400 categories of items todiscourage import of non-essential/luxury goods which are also beingmanufactured locally.

Minimum standards have been developed by the Ministry of Scienceand Technology/PSQCA for around 100 categories of items whichwill be applicable at the time of clearance of imports to avoid importof substandard quality of goods.

Commodities which are being manufactured locally are banned forimport in second hand/used condition like refrigerators, deep freezers.air-conditioners and fans etc.

Details are placed at Annex-I, II, III.


52. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:


(a) the mandate and functions of the Ministry after the Constitution(Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010;

(b) the total employees working in the Ministry at present; and

(c) the total expenditures of the Ministry during the financial years2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordunation (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): (a) Attached at Annex-I

(b) Out of 277-Sanctioned Posts in BS-01 to 22 presently222 employees are working in this Ministry.

(c) The year wise expenditure incurred under Non-DevelopmentExpenditure and Development Expenditure of this Ministry in given below intabulated from. The detailed of the expenditure is attached at Annex-II

30

Non-Development Expenditure

(Rs. In Million)——————————————————————————————

Year Budget Final ExpenditureGrant Grant

——————————————————————————————2013-14 1681.891 2129.583 1910.190

2014-15 1539.404 2034.515 1940.956

2015-16 1645.000 1578.672 1451.951——————————————————————————————Development Expenditure

(Rs. In Million)——————————————————————————————

Year Budget Final ExpenditureGrant Grant

——————————————————————————————2013-14 437.618 450.197 448.115

2014-15 412.944 1066.394 900.568

2015-16 609.553 1360.437 886.993——————————————————————————————


53. *Ms. Munaza Hassan:


(a) the total expenditures incurred by the Ministry for the promotionof National Game of Hockey since 01-01-2010;

(b) the present status of performance made in the said game duringthe said period; and

31

(c) the steps taken by the Government to promote said game atNational and International levels during the said period?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordunation (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): (a) Government/Pakistan Sports Board has released the following financialassistance to Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) for promotion of hockey duringthe last five year:—

32

(b) Pakistan Hockey Federations is affiliated with Pakistan Sports Board(PSB) and responsible for promotion of hockey sport in the country. The recordof achievements of Senior and Junior Hockey team is attached at Annexure-I

(c) Hockey is the game of our national pride and it has played a vitalrole in winning laurels and good name to Pakistan in the International arena. Thesteps taken by the government for the promotion of hockey are as under:

(a) PSB sponsored the visit of Pakistan hockey team to participate inthe Qualifying Round. Fintro Hockey World League Semi Finals atAntwerp, Belgium from 14th June to 6th July, 2015.

(b) Government/PSB took extra ordinary measures to ensure theparticipation of Pakistan hockey team in the upcoming Olympics inBrazil.

(c) Government has been actively engaged in promoting hockey as anational game. Government has rendered every possible assistanceto the federation. However the performance of the PHF and Pakistanhockey team in recent past including Olympic, Qualifying Roundplayed in Belgium was reviewed. It has been transpired that:

(i) The management of Pakistan Hockey Federation including theCoaches and Selection Committee performed poorly. TheFederation was disorganized, lacked professionalism and senseof responsibility.

(ii) This view was established through Inquiry Committee whichwas constituted under the orders of the Prime Minister ofPakistan after the debacle of the team in Belgium.

(iii) The audit of the PHF conducted by the Auditor General revealsserious mis-management, corrupt practices and carelessnesson the part of ex-office bearers.

(d) The Prime Minister has taken serious view and has desired immediateaction. The matter pertaining to the years 2009-2014 were focusedand serious action is in pipeline.

(e) The government decided to change the status quo of the federation.

33

(f) Prime Minister/Patron-in-Chief of Pakistan Hockey Federationnominated Brig. (R) Muhammad Khalid Sajjad Khokhar as President,Pakistan Hockey Federation. His nomination has already been ratifiedby the PHF Congress in its meeting held on 27th August, 2015 atIslamabad.

(g) The new management of the PHF has appointed new selectioncommittee and coaching staff of Pakistan Junior team.

(h) Other initiatives to promote the hockey are in hand.

Besides, grants-in-aid were extended to the federation in the shape ofannual and special grants. The annual grant is released for organization ofmandatory national championships and to meet its day to day expensesand the special grants for participation in international events at home andabroad.


54. *Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state whetherPakistan has good diplomatic relations with African countries atpresent?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: As part of Government “Look Africa”policy, there has been renewed focus on revitalizing the entire gamut of Pakistan’srelations with the African countries. In line with this policy, President of Pakistanundertook a visit to Nigeria after three decades. In addition, a number of ministerialand senior official level visits to Africa also took place during the last 3 years, themost recent being the visit to Kenya by Minister of States and Frontier Regions(SAFRON). Lt Gen (Retd) Abdul Quadir Baloch from 23-29 May, 2016. Fromthe African side, the President the President of Mauritius recently visited Pakistan(from 17-20th April 2016) on the invitation of President of Pakistan. BilateralPolitical Consultation with Algeria and Sudan were also held in Islamabad in Apriland May 2016, respectively.

Pakistan greatly values its relations with Africa. It has been collaboratingclosely with the African countries bilaterally as well as in multilateral for a includingthe UN. Pakistan also regularly cooperates with the 27 African member states in

34

the OIC. The bilateral trade of Pakistan with Africa is roughly around US$ 3billion, with almost same level of exports and imports.

Moreover, on the instructions of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, a cashdonation amounting to USD $ 100,000 was extended to the victims of drought inNiger in 2014. This relief assistance was deeply appreciated by the Governmentand people of Niger. As part of this humanitarian outreach to a brotherly Muslimcountry, Pakistan again extended aid of 15,000 tons of rice to Niger inFebnruary,2016. In a nutshell, diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Africancountries are strengthening over time. 55. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state the initiativesbeing taken by the Government to improve the performance of thePakistani Embassies?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Pursuant to Prime Minister’s directive,the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all its diplomatic Missions abroad continue toimprove their standard of services. Upon receipt of any specific complaint fromany Overseas Pakistani, the Ministry urgently coordinates with the concernedPakistani Mission abroad and the relevant departments in Pakistan in order toamicably and promptly resolve the specific complaint.

The following steps have been taken by the Ministry of Foreign Affairsand Pakistan Missions abroad to improve performance and services for the welfareof Overseas Pakistanis:

Establishment of an Overseas Pakistanis Division, headed by anAdditional Secretary.

Participation in Standing Committee of the Senate on OverseasPakistanis.

Participation in Federal Ombudsman’s High-Level meeting onMeasures to Facilitate Overseas Pakistanis.

Membership in the Board of Governors of Overseas PakistanisFoundation (OPF).

35

OP Division’s regular coordination with Grievance Commissioner ofFederal Ombudsman to promptly resolve complaints received fromOverseas Pakistanis.

OP Division’s regular coordination with Ministry of OverseasPakistanis and OPF.

Up-gradation of Consular Hall facilities in premises of Ministry ofForeign Affairs, its Camp Offices in Provincial Capitals and allPakistani Missions abroad.

Designated focal persons in all Missions for Overseas Pakistanis,including prompt redressal of their problems and complaints.

Name and contact details of all Heads of Missions and designatedfocal persons have been prominently displayed on official websitesof Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective Pakistani Missions.

Establishment of integrated online appointment system by PakistaniMissions abroad.

Heads of Missions organize weekly community meetings to resolvecomplaints.

Regular consular visits by our Missions abroad to OPs residing in farflung areas.

Establishment of Machine Readable Passport (MRP) facilities in 80Pakistani Missions abroad, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interiorand IMPASS.

Establishment of NADRA facilities in 14 Pakistani Missions abroad,in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and NADRA.

Establishment and up-gradation of Pakistani community schools.

Regular consular visits by Missions abroad to Pakistani prisonersand detainees.

Legal assistance to Pakistani prisoners and detainees, including legalfees.

36

Repatriation of released Pakistani prisoners and detainees by Missionsabroad.

Repatriation of destitute Overseas Pakistanis by Missions abroad.

Expeditious processing and transportation of dead bodies ofOverseas Pakistanis.

Regular coordination with Ministry of Interior, IMPASS and NADRAon MRP, NICOP, POC and deportation issues.

56. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps beingtaken by the Government to enhance domestic trade with Kazakistan?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): Theeconomy of Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia with GDP of aboutUS$ 212.25 billion while per capita income was approximately US$ 12277 in2014.

Trade between Pakistan and Kazakhstan is presently at the level of US$11.5 million in 2014-15. Pakistan’s exports were US$ 6.6 million while importsfrom Kazakhstan were at the level of US$ 4.9 million.

In order to enhance trade with Kazakhstan, Ministry of Commerce hasbeen focusing on trade promotion activities and encouraging contacts between theprivate sectors of the two countries. In this regard Trade Development Authorityof Pakistan (TDAP) with the support of Ministry of Commerce organizedRoadshow in Central Asian States including Kazakhstan on 13-14 May, 2016.The event was organized as a follow up of the visit of Prime Minister of Pakistanto CARs. The Roadshow provided an opportunity for showcasing Pakistaniproducts in these regional markets, paving the way for closer trade links withthese hitherto un-explored markets.

During the two days event at Almaty, Kazakhstan, a large compositedisplay of Pakistani products by 40 to 50 different companies was arranged. Onthe sidelines of the event, B2B meetings, Fashion and Cultural performances werealso organized.

37

Furthermore, other promotional activities to enhance trade with Kazakhstaninclude a Business Opportunities Conference proposed to be organized in October,2016 in Kazakhstan and an exhibition of Pakistani products to be organized byHaripur Chamber of Commerce at Almaty in November, 2016.

57. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:

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

(a) the action taken against the persons by Employees Old AgeBenefits Institution (EOBI) who were involved in embezzlementof property from 1st January, 2001 to December, 2013alongwith the details thereof;

(b) the loss caused to the employees thereby; and

(c) the steps being taken by the Government to prevent the saidembezzlement?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) On the direction ofhonorable Supreme Court of Pakistan, FIA has made investigation and around 16FIRs were registered against the persons including (i) Sellers (ii) EOBI Officers(iii) Members Board of Trustees and (iv) Members of Investment Committee. Thepersons named in FIRs are either under arrest or are on bail (Annex-I).

All Governments Servants involved in the scam have been suspendedfrom the service and departmental proceedings under Efficiency and Discipline(E&D) Rules, 1973 and EOM (Employees Service) Regulation, 1980 have beeninitiated against them.

(b) Property wise loss determined by the Valuators in their valuationreport submitted in the Supreme Court of Pakistan is annexed (Annex-II).

(c) The Board of Trustees, EOBI, which was reconstituted after theabove property scam, banned purchase of real estate properties from privateowners, to avoid repetition of similar incident. EOBI investment in property is thusrestricted to government owned properties that shall he acquired transparently byway of participation in the Auction.

38

Further, the Board of Trustees EOBI had developed EOB (Investments)Regulations 2015. The Regulations not only restrict real estate investments togovt. owned property, but also clearly delineate the duties,/ responsibilities ofInvestment Committee and Board as well as that of various EOBI departmentslike Investments, Finance & Accounts and Audit, so that responsibility could beclearly fixed on delinquent officials. The draft notification of these Regulations isexpected to be published in near future. It is hoped that deficiencies in the systemcausing the above scam would be removed and no such incident shall occur infuture.

Moreover, the suo-moto case being heard by Supreme Court is expectedto be decided in near future. As the breach of PPRA Rules and other codalformalities were highlighted in the court hearings and FIA investigations, it is expectedthat the decision by the Supreme Court shall contain further insights and guidelinesabout real estate investments which will make them more transparent is secure,precluding the chances of repetition of any such scam in future.


58. *Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan:


(a) the city-wise property purchased by the Employees Old AgeBenefits Institution (EOBI) from 01-01-2001 to 31-12-2013alongwith the details thereof; and

(b) whether it is a fact that 50% excess payments have been madefor the purchase of said property; if so, the actions taken againstthe responsibles therefor?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) The detail ofcity-wise property purchased by Employees’ Old-Age Benefits (EOBI) during01-01-2001 to 31-12-2013 is annexed (Annex-1).

(b) The previous management of EOBI had purchased 18 properties(Annex-II) on exorbitant rates as evident from the evaluation report made by theindependent Valuators appointed by the Supreme Court of Pakistan. As per

39

enclosed statement, 50% excess payments or more have been made for thepurchase of many of the said properties.

On the direction of honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan, FIA has madeinvestigation and around 16 FIRs were registered against the persons including (i)Sellers (ii) EOBI Officers (iii) Members Board of Trustees and (iv) Members ofInvestment Committee. The persons named in FIRs are either under arrest or areon bail.

All Governments Servants involved in the scam have been suspendedfrom the service and departmental proceedings under Efficiency and Discipline(E&D) Rules, 1973 and EOBI (Employees Service) Regulation, 1980 have beeninitiated against them.


59. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the steps beingtaken by the Government to increase the trade relations with UK?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): UK is aleading trade partner of Pakistan. In 2015, Pakistan-UK bilateral trade stood at2.06 Billion Euros. Pakistan’s exports to UK amounted to 1.355 billion Euros.Pakistan’s imports from UK amounted to 0.704 Billion Euros. UK had been apart of EU until the recently concluded referendum held on 23rd June, 2016 inwhich people of UK decided to leave EU.

Pakistani products have had duty-free access in UK since 1st Jan., 2014under EU’s GSP plus scheme. As UK negotiates its withdrawal from EU, GSPplus facility in UK is likely to remain available for Pakistani exporters for anothertwo years. As a result of GSP plus; Pakistan’s exports in UK have increased byabout 40 percent since 2013.

Import and Export figures between Pakistan and UK are as below

.

40

——————————————————————————————Year Export to UK Import from UK

(Billion Euros) (Billion Euros)——————————————————————————————

2013 1.0 0.5

2014 1.2 0.6

2015 1.3 0.7——————————————————————————————

Source: Euro stat

In addition, Government of Pakistan has taken following steps to boostexports to UK

1. Government of Pakistan has facilitated the participation of Pakistaniexporters in the following international exhibitions held in UK(Annex-A)

——————————————————————————————Year Name of Products displayed

Exhibition——————————————————————————————

2014-15 Safety and Gloves and Safety products(Jun.)2015 Health Fair UK

2015-16 Spring Fair, Textile and Home decor(Feb. 2016) Birmingham UK items

——————————————————————————————

2. Outgoing Business Development Delegations from Pakistan to UnitedKingdom

Government of Pakistan has facilitated self sponsored visit of a tradedelegation from Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce andIndustries to UK (June-2016)

Government of Pakistan has also facilitated self sponsored visit of atrade delegation from Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industriesto UK (April, 2016)

41

Government of Pakistan has also facilitated self sponsored visit oftrade delegation from Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industriesto UK (June-2016)

3. Incoming business delegations from UK to Pakistan.

Government of Pakistan received 23, 28 and 06 UK delegates thatparticipated in EXPO- 2013, EXPO-2015 and TEXPO-2016respectively.

4. In partnership with Government of Pakistan, UK opened a BusinessCenter in Karachi in February 2016 to facilitate investors andbusinessmen.

5. Since 2013, UK Government in cooperation with Government ofPakistan has organized numerous investors and business forums inLondon.

6. Minister for Commerce has written to his counterpart to beginnegotiations on a seamless transition from GSP to an analogousfacility between Pakistan and United Kingdom.

Annex-A

42

60. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:


(a) the total number of vehicles in Pakistani Embassies abroad atpresent; and

(b) the name of persons who are utilizing the same at present?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: Details of total number of officers in eachwing using the official vehicle, make model and year of purchase of each vehicleand total expenditure on each vehicle during the last financial year is attached atAnnexure-A.


ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI,The 2nd August, 2016 Secretary.

PCPPI—1216(2016) NA—2-8-2016—650.

1

(34th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Wednesday, the 3rd August, 2016

9. Ms. Belum Hasnain:


(a) the names alongwith the Basic Pay Scales of employees of theMinistry who have been sent on foreign trainings during thecurrent year alongwith the purposes thereof; and

(b) the criteria adopted therefor?

Minister for Foreign Affairs: (a) During the current year, 19 officers ofthe Ministry of Foreign Affairs have proceeded on foreign training abroad so far(January—July 2016). These include officers who have availed short-durationcourses as well as officers who were sent abroad on foreign language trainingabroad. Detailed table on this account is placed at Annexure.

(b) Normally, based on the required seniority level of officers (Juniorlevel, mid-career and senior level) and qualification, the specific course iscirculated among all interested officers of the Ministry. Followed by that,based on the Inter-se seniority, qualification and relevance of the course tothe job-description, nominations of officers are finalized with the approvalof the competent authority. In case of language training abroad, the FSPofficers of the youngest batch who join the Ministry after completing theirSpecialized Training Programme and qualification of Final Passing-outExamination are offered a certain number of foreign language courses as per

2

the Ministry’s requirements. These officers accordingly give their preferencesfor the list of languages offered to them and one foreign language is allocatedto

-each of these officers as per Inter-se seniority.


10. Mr. Sajid Ahmed:

Will the Minister for Commerce be pleased to state the names of thecountries importing cotton from Pakistan at present?

Minister for Commerce (Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan): The countriesthat imported cotton from Pakistan during the last two years are India, Viet Nam,Bangladesh, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, Philippines, China, Cuba and Djibouti

Detail is attached at Annex-I.

Annexeure-I

Countries importing Cotton from Pakistan

Value in Million US$——————————————————————————————

FY 2014-15 FY 2015-16 (July-March)——————————————————————————————S.No Commodity by Country Quantity (MT) Value Quantity (MT) Value——————————————————————————————

COTTON 94,074 147.06 48,513 75.32

1. India 23,175 36.76 13,159 20.37

2. Viet Nam 10,031 15.87 12,013.

18.94

3. Bangladesh 21,566 34.36 9,586 15.01

4. Indonesia 28,061 43.08 9,378 14.57

5. Thailand 5,887 9.13 3,493 5.17

6. Taiwan 4,212 6.38 485 0.71—————————————————————————————————————

3

——————————————————————————————FY 2014-15 FY 2015-16 (July-March)

——————————————————————————————S.No Commodity by Country Quantity (MT) Value Quantity (MT) Value——————————————————————————————7. Philippines 199 0.24 203 0.27

8. China 97 0.15 99 0.15

9. Cuba 75 0.13 97 0.14

10. Djibouti 771 0.96——————————————————————————————Source : Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

ISLAMABAD: ABDUL JABBAR ALI,The 2nd August, 2016. Secretary.

PCPPI—1216(2016) NA—2-8-2016—650.

national assembly secretariat ———— “questions for … · russia in july 2015. the heads...

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