Tag: Sherry Rehman

  • Sherry Rehman makes it to list of 25 most influential women of 2022

    Sherry Rehman makes it to list of 25 most influential women of 2022

    Federal Minister for Climate Change, Sherry Rehman, has been included in the Financial Times list of ’25 most influential women of 2022′.

    The first minister of Scotland- Nicola Ferguson Sturgeon—one of the article’s writers—termed Sherry Rehman a “negotiator with grit”.

    Describing the climate minister, Ferguson said, “Rehman’s negotiating skills, her pragmatism in navigating the blocks that developed countries put in her way and her campaigning voice were instrumental in the progress on loss and damage at COP27.”

    According to her, at the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP27, Sherry Rehman gave a powerful account of the devastating floods in Pakistan

    “I have no doubt that Sherry will continue in her campaign for climate justice, for global financial reform and for the vital funds required to secure a future for those parts of Pakistan that will suffer the impact of this year’s floods for a long time to come”, the Scotland minister added.

    Apart from Sherry, the list also includes the women of Iran who “have been denied for too long: dignity, personal bodily autonomy, the freedom to live safely in their own country”. Women in Iran are protesting since September when a 22-year-old woman, Mahsa Amini, was snatched off the street by the “morality police” for allegedly failing to wear the hijab correctly. She died in police custody.

    Tennis player Serena Williams, the world’s youngest elected leader Prime Minister (PM) of Finland Sanna Marin, United States (US) Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and others are also on the list.

  • ‘Hold India accountable’: PM Shehbaz, President Alvi expressed solidarity with Kashmiris on Black Day

    ‘Hold India accountable’: PM Shehbaz, President Alvi expressed solidarity with Kashmiris on Black Day

    On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of India’s illegitimate occupation of Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and others have released messages to mark the sombre day.

    “This day is a testament to Kashmiris’ legendary courage and resilience they have shown in standing up to the Indian occupation forces over the last 75 years,” the Prime Minister said in his message shared on Twitter.

    In his tweet, the Premier urged the world to not “turn a blind eye” to human rights abuses in IIOJK.

    Similarly, Dr Arif Alvi called upon the international community to take practical steps to hold India accountable for its “egregious human rights violations in IIOJK”.

    The President reiterated Pakistan’s call for the immediate reversal of the Indian government’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019, which stripped the IIOJK of its special status under the Indian constitution.

    In an official message, Foreign Minister (FM) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also paid tribute to Kashmiris for rendering sacrifices.

    “October 27 is the darkest day in the history of India which emerged as the worst dictator and colonialist country in the world 75 years ago,” Bilawal was quoted by Radio Pakistan.

    Federal Minister for Climate Change, Senator Sherry Rehman also expressed solidarity with Kashmiri brothers and sisters.

    “The people of Kashmir are still paying the price of this occupation. For the past 75 years, India has been violating the resolutions of the United Nations and oppressing Kashmiris”, the federal minister said in a tweet.

    It should be noted that Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and the world over are observing Black Day today (Thursday). The day will be marked by a complete shutdown and civil curfew by the people in IIOJK.

  • ‘A great loss to journalism’: Politicians and journalists extend condolences on the demise of Arshad Sharif

    ‘A great loss to journalism’: Politicians and journalists extend condolences on the demise of Arshad Sharif

    The killing of senior journalist Arshad Sharif late Sunday night has sent shockwaves across the country. Kenyan authorities have confirmed that the renowned television anchor was killed by local police, in what they have said was a case of mistaken identity.

    According to reports, the journalist left Pakistan in August for Dubai. It is unclear when did he go to Kenya.

    Following the tragic news, politicians, journalists extended condolences and expressed shock at the sudden demise of the leading newsman.

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif wrote in a tweet, “I am deeply saddened by the shocking news of journalist Arshad Sharif’s tragic death. May Allah SWT grant him a place in Heaven. My deep condolences and prayers for the bereaved family.”

    President Dr Arif Alvi termed Arshad’s death as “A great loss to journalism and Pakistan”. In a tweet, he extended his condolences on the journalist’s death.

    Former Prime Minister and Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, too turned to Twitter to express his shock, stating that that today the entire nation mourns Arshad Sharif’s death. He said, “Shocked at the brutal murder of Arshad Sharif who paid the ultimate price for speaking the truth – his life. He had to leave the country & be in hiding abroad but he continued to speak the truth on social media, exposing the powerful.”

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo spoke to the media in London. About Arshad’s death, he said, “I am really saddened by the news”.

    Foreign Minister (FM) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari condemned the killing and extended his deepest condolences to “his family and loved ones”.

    Former Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari shared a Quranic verse through her Twitter account.

    More politicians and senior journalists including Arshad’s colleagues expressed their shock on Twitter when the news broke out in the early hours of Monday.

  • ‘Qanoon ke saamnay sar jhukay’: PM and others react to IK’s disqualification

    ‘Qanoon ke saamnay sar jhukay’: PM and others react to IK’s disqualification

    The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday disqualified Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan under Article 63(1)(p) of the constitution in the Toshakhana reference.

    Article 63 (1)(p) of the Constitution states that an individual is, “for the time being, disqualified from being elected or chosen as a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (parliament) or of a provincial assembly under any law for the time being in force”.

    According to the verdict, criminal proceedings will be initiated against Imran for misdeclaration.

    A four-member bench, headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja, unanimously announced the verdict. The PTI chairman is no more a member of the National Assembly.

    The commission stated that Imran Khan submitted a false affidavit and was found involved in corrupt practices in the reference.

    Following the announcement, Khan’s party leaders and the coalition government parties reacted to this major ruling.

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that PTI should refrain from violence and bow its head before the law.

    “The Election Commission did justice in the Toshakhana reference. The nation has seen that the post of Prime Minister has been made a source of personal income through corrupt practices. The idol of honesty and trust was shattered,” the premier added.

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz spoke to the media in London. She said, “Khan is Pakistan’s first certified liar with irrefutable evidence of theft.”

    She added that after this verdict criminal proceedings should start against Khan and he should be punished for his theft.

    Foreign Minister (FM) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said that Khan has been caught “red-handed”. In a tweet, he stated: “He who would spread lies about the alleged corruption of his political opponents has been caught red-handed.”

    The former planning minister, Asad Umar, made an announcement, saying: “The decision will be challenged in court. The dream of ‘minus Imran Khan’ will never come true.”

    Umar’s party mate Fawad Chaudhry asked the people to come out of their houses for their rights.

    He called the ECP’s ruling a “slap on the face of 220 million people”.

    “Not just anyone cannot disqualify Imran Khan. Only the public can do that,” the PTI leader said.

    He alleged that today’s verdict was “written by Nawaz Sharif and signed by his servants”.

    Alongside him, PTI leader Shahbaz Gill said the PTI would approach “every forum” against the verdict. “Imran has been disqualified from just one seat, not politics,” he added.

    Minister for Climate Change, Senator Sherry Rehman, took to Twitter to say that Imran Khan’s disqualification case is no different as he is not the only one who has been disqualified.

    In a series of tweets, she said, “Those who claim to bring a neutral umpire want the umpire to decide in their favour, otherwise the decision will not be accepted.”

  • PM Shehbaz, President wish nation on the occasion of Eid-Milad-ul-Nabi

    PM Shehbaz, President wish nation on the occasion of Eid-Milad-ul-Nabi

    The birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is being celebrated today with religious devotion. On the occasion of Eid-Milad-ul-Nabi, different political leaders have offered warm wishes to the nation.

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation through his official Twitter handle.

    In his message, PM Shehbaz said: “Allah sent our last Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a blessing for the believers”.

    President Dr Arif Alvi congratulating the nation, said: “His prophethood made visible the difference between good and evil, the darkness of ignorance was removed, the customs of non-believers were abolished, the name of the lone Creator of the universe was magnified and hearts of the humanity shone with the purity of the oneness of Allah.”

    Foreign Minister (FM) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, in a tweet, extended his wishes. He said, “By fully following the principles of co-existence, cooperation, and tolerance mentioned by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), conflicts and tensions in the world can be ended.”

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan wished the nation on his Instagram handle.

    Federal Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman, on the occasion, urged the nation to, “move forward following the path indicated by the Holy Prophet.”

  • ‘Relief activities for floods could continue for next two years’: Ahsan Iqbal

    ‘Relief activities for floods could continue for next two years’: Ahsan Iqbal

    Minister for Planning and Development, Ahsan Iqbal, has said that relief activities after the devastating effects of floods across the country could continue for the “next two years”.

    “Natural disasters are a result of climate change, however, we are coming up with plans to deal with them in the future. For now, the government has allocated Rs40 billion for 20 underdeveloped districts.”

    The federal minister said that the armed forces, provincial governments and district administrations are working actively to provide relief.

    “The floods have caused wide-scale destruction”, he added while urging the nation to unite and help those affected by floods.

    On Thursday, Climate Change Minister Senator Sherry Rehman announced that the Parliament has approved the country’s largest “Living Indus” initiative that is aimed at protecting the cradle of civilizations which was under serious threat due to environmental degradation and anthropogenic activities.

    The floods have also raised questions on whether Pakistan will be able to pay its debts on time. Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari have sought climate justice to compensate for the destruction.

    It is pertinent to mention that the US is so far the largest donor to flood relief and rehabilitation funds. Washington has provided about $56 million to Pakistan since July.

    Devastating floods are responsible for killing more than 1,600 people and the damages to the infrastructure is estimated at nearly $30 billion.

  • Need to know how to deal with misogyny? Just watch Sherry Rehman

    Need to know how to deal with misogyny? Just watch Sherry Rehman

    If you want a guide or need tips on how to deal with the misogyny that exists even in Pakistan’s Senate, you need to watch Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Climate Change, Senator Sherry Rehman. Here is she at her wittiest best.

    An incident took place in Senate Pakistan on Tuesday where the House Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani called Rehman the “Senate’s dadi (grandmother)” when he asked a house member to keep the questions specific so that Sherry Rehman can answer the questions.

    “I would advise you to only ask specific questions so that Sherry Rehman, who is the dadi of this House, can give you the right answers,” Sanjrani said, adding that members should keep the environment of the House calm.

    However, Rehman snapped back immediately and said: “Kyunke mei apki dadi lagti hoon, meri koshish ye hogi kay kisi ki dadageeri na ho“. (Because I am your grandmother, i will try to ensure that no one is bullied.)

    The Upper House then burst out with laughter.

    Following this, Senator Rehman shared a clip of the incident with a caption saying, “How to deal with misogyny 101 without giving it the oxygen it seeks”.

  • Lyari River to be cleaned up with help of public, private orgs: Sherry

    Lyari River to be cleaned up with help of public, private orgs: Sherry

    Federal Climate Change Minister Senator Sherry Rehman on Wednesday announced the launch of a Lyari River clean-up drive in collaboration with public and private organisations.

    She made the announcement while speaking at a round table discussion that was organised by Coca-Cola Pakistan in collaboration with the Karachi Port Trust (KPT), ministries of maritime affairs and climate change.

    Held in continuation of the World Water Week, the theme of #SeeingTheUnseen, the roundtable session was chaired by Senator Sherry Rehman, with Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Syed Faisal Ali Subzwari, attending as a guest of honour and led by S.M Tariq Huda, Chairman of the Karachi Port Trust All these people represented apex bodies most impacted by the report that revealed catastrophic levels of waste accumulation over the last 20 years, of which less than 2 per cent is removed.

    Federal Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman, who formed a committee to lead the Lyari Cleanup Project, said, “Pakistan has been identified as the most vulnerable to climate change as we clearly see from the present floods the country is facing. Broad-based partnerships are going to play a crucial role in ensuring that we develop solutions that can be scaled up by the use of technology.

    Fahad Ashraf, Vice President, The Coca-Cola Company, Pakistan said, “We have always known that the communities in Karachi’s harbour area are adversely impacted by poor waste management, but this is not a responsibility that falls on just one single entity because the quantum of the problem is too large. This is a call to anyone who cares about Pakistan’s water security to step in.”

    Moderated by public policy expert, Mosharraf Zaidi, this event aimed to co-create solutions that can be used to scale up sustainable interventions, emphasising on local and international expertise. In attendance were representatives of the global NGO, The Ocean Cleanup, WWF-Pakistan, Unilever, Nestlé, Engro, the packaging alliance CORE, SEED Ventures, Indus Earth Trust and the National Institute of Oceanography, to name a few.
    As part of The Ocean Cleanup and Coca-Cola’s global partnership to stem the tide of plastic waste by intercepting it in rivers around the world, they are looking to build a coalition that explores solutions to clean the Lyari harbour area.

    Mr Tariq Huda, Chairman of Karachi Port Trust, a partner in making the project a reality, said “This port connects Pakistan’s northern provinces and the overall Pakistan economy to the world, and water security, therefore, is a national security issue that we must neither deny nor delay solving.”
    The Environmental Scoping Study reveals that the Lyari harbour area, which was meant to be a spillway to control the flow of flood water, is now choked by accumulated debris. Every month, 9,000 tonnes of debris enter this river, almost entirely unclean.

    With about 33 million people nationwide impacted by the floods and an impending food security issue, this timely report calls for urgent and substantive action in densely populated cities like Karachi that are at a perpetual threat to urban flooding.

  • Number of flood affectees may cross 33 million, warns Climate Change Minister

    Number of flood affectees may cross 33 million, warns Climate Change Minister

    Federal Minister of Climate Change Sherry Rehman warned on Sunday (August 28) that the number of those affected by the floods may cross 33 million as the devastating floods continue.

    She said that the government, supported by the United Nations (UN) and other humanitarian agencies, is leading the humanitarian action.

    “Kabul River is still at very high flood level at Nowshera as more than 300,000 cusecs of water was crossing the river,” she said, adding that with 500,000 cusecs, water levels in River Indus at Taunsa, Sukkur and Chashma are at “high flood level”.

    Calling the floods “a perfect storm”, Sherry Rehman added that as relentless rains had battered the southern parts of the country, the floods in the Indus River devastated the northern areas.

    Updating on the relief efforts, she said that as rain has subsided in some areas, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Pakistan Army have amped up rescue efforts.

  • ‘Largest prison in the world’: Politicians condemn atrocities in occupied Kashmir

    ‘Largest prison in the world’: Politicians condemn atrocities in occupied Kashmir

    Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir is being observed today in Pakistan to mark the day when Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi revoked the special status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s (IIOJK). In violation of the United Nations (UN) resolutions and international law, India scrapped Articles 370 and 35-A of the Indian Constitution that granted special autonomous status to IIOJK and imposed a military siege on the territory on August 5, 2019.

    Pakistani politicians expressed solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir.

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that India’s actions are “aimed at altering the demographic structure of the occupied territory”.

    “The Jammu and Kashmir dispute has been a battle of hope against overwhelming odds, of courage against fear and of sacrifice against tyranny.”

    The premier also paid tribute to the martyrs of IIOJK for their sacrifices and courage.

    “Pakistan will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their just struggle. We call upon international community to take practical steps to hold India accountable for its gross and widespread human rights violations in IIOJK and to facilitate a peaceful resolution of this long-standing dispute,” tweeted President Dr Arif Alvi.

    The president further added, “The resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant UNSC Resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people is the only way to ensure durable peace and stability in the region.”

    “More than 1.5 billion people in the region deserve to see the dawn of peace and prosperity, which has been held hostage by India in IIOJK.”

    Similarly, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan said that the Indian authorities assumed that their moves would crush the spirit of Kashmiri resistance “but the Kashmiris’ spirit of resistance became stronger and it continues to strengthen”.

    Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari released a video message on the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir.

    He said that the presence of the Indian troops has turned occupied Kashmir into the most militarised region in the world.

    “Over the past seven decades, three generations of Kashmiris have awaited for the world community and UN to honour their solemn commitment.”

    Former FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi called India a rogue state.

    “India continues to act as a rogue state with unrelenting violence in #IIOJK. Yet indigenous resistance movement for Kashmiri’s inalienable right to self-determination stands strong. Pakistan will always stand by ppl of Kashmir.”

    “Modi government has made IIJOK the largest prison in the world,” tweeted federal Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman.