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Express Tribune
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
World Order — exceptionalism, aggression, brazen hypocrisy
The writer heads the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, Islamabad. He is currently a visiting Research Fellow at Fudan University, Shanghai Listen to article Israel's ongoing reaction to the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, and the current ungrounded aggression against Iran only reinforced a bitter reality of the world today — the post-9/11 order rests on brazen aggression and high-handedness of the mighty ones who have arrogated to themselves the right to define conflict, self-defense, evil, terrorism and victimhood. The world order today knows no values, no morality. Nor any consideration for national or international law. Notions such as rule of law and democracy have meanwhile been reduced to fiction. We still hear a lot of western pontification on extremism and terrorism but it's pretty ironic that they don't apply the same yardstick to Israeli actions against women and children in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran. On the contrary, all leaders defended this as "Israel's right to self-defence". Donald Trump — as it turns out — simply lied when he vowed to "end wars" and uttered his contempt for the deep state. He had vowed to reform the justice department which he described as "department of injustice" immediately after his reelection. Bit by bit, the G-7 nations have scornfully pulled down the very values they championed for decades by inventing a self-serving exceptionalism in their own favour (read in Israel's favour). Today, they condemn attacks on Israel as criminal but hail the killing of nearly 60,000 Palestinians as self-defence. All G-7 leaders dub Iran as the source of instability but are literally blind to — in fact complicit with - the Israeli actions of first killing Palestinians and now recklessly bombarding Iran to neutralise their nuclear weapons, although a US report, according to CNN, says Iran is far away from making a nuclear bomb. But all that seems just an excuse for crippling Iran and brining about a regime change. On the sidelines of the recent G-7 summit in Alberta, Canada, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz spelt out this backhanded approach by the Israel apologists - a virtual endorsement of Israeli actions to date. "This is the dirty work Israel is doing for all of us — this mullah regime [in Iran] has brought death and destruction to the world," Merz said in an interview with the ZDF broadcaster. In a separate interview with Welt TV, Merz also suggested Israel's attacks on Iran could lead to the demise of the Islamic republic's leadership. "To be honest, I can hardly imagine the mullah regime returning to its old functions," he added, in a glaring display of hypocrisy born off cold-blooded geopolitics. The G-7 essentially endorsed the Israel position on Iran. This way they themselves undercut the very themes they touted for decades as the West's unique selling point (USP) i.e. democracy, rule of law and human rights with the United Nations watching on as a silent, literally irrelevant spectator. Its predecessor — the League of Nations — had ceased to exist on April 20, 1946, largely due to its inability to prevent major global conflicts, particularly World War II. Will the United Nations meet the same fate and drown in irrelevance? For all practical reasons, the UN has been reduced to a debating club of the elite that thrives off the funding from member countries. Israel today is doing what Rudolf Hitler did first against neighbouring European countries and then against Russia. Hitler's invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939 triggered reaction from America, Russia, Britain and France, with the last two mentioned countries declaring war on Germany on September 3, and so began the World War II. Will the murder of nearly 60,000 Palestinians and hundreds of Iranians as well as the potential Chinese and Russian reaction lead to the undoing of the United Nations that has been irrelevant at least since October 2023? Blind exceptionalism — basically another synonym for hypocrisy — is causing a major shift in global politics. Battle lines have further deepened with willful demonisation of Iran and its major supporters thus far i.e. China and Russia. This exceptionalism is stinkingly obnoxious, evident also from a recent article in The Wall Street Journal. "The US, Israel and India blundered by allowing Pakistan to acquire nuclear weapons. Repeating the blunder with Iran would be far worse," says an oped by Sadanand Dhume in the Journal's June 18, 2025 issue. Once again, this extremely self-serving argument — as if it were the benevolence of these countries and not relentless efforts of Pakistani scientists and engineers — exposes the exceptionalism being peddled in western official corridors and media houses. Nobody speaks of how Israelis and Indians got hold of nuclear weapons. Neither of them has signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, but continues to demonise Pakistan's nuclear capability like a crime committed. For the G-7 nations crimes, it seems, against hapless Palestinian women and relentless attacks on Iran are self-defence, while Pakistan's nuclear capability and Iran's nuclear pursuits are an unacceptable offence.
Express Tribune
13-06-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Trump and ancient Chinese wisdom
The writer heads the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, Islamabad. He is currently a visiting Research Fellow at Fudan University, Shanghai Listen to article Is Donald Trump the present day manifestation of the ancient Chinese businessman who enjoyed the least of respect in society? A direct comparison may sound unfair to the president, but his fixation on tariffs – seemingly rooted in arrogant nationalism – has prompted many in China to recall how ancient Chinese emperors and philosophers viewed businessmen. The falling out of Trump and Elon Musk – two powerful businessmen – also perhaps offers the latest illustration of that Chinese wisdom on businessmen's propensity to be self-righteous, arrogant and self-serving when the situation so demands. When Trump, a businessman turned politician, intensified his pursuit of increased tax revenues by imposing customs duties on a wide range of US imports from various global sources, he elicited a reaction from even the most esteemed traditional partners, such as the European Union and India. While Trump's intentions to revitalise the US economy and achieve 'Make-America-Great-Again' resonated with many, his actions evoked a comparison in China to the behaviour of ancient Chinese businessmen. These individuals were renowned for their unwavering pursuit of personal gain, often disregarding societal norms and values. This is how businessmen were viewed in general. Within the traditional Chinese cultural hierarchy, the Emperor of course stood above everybody else, with the absolute authority. All others – the citizens of the empire – however, were divided into four distinct classes. While businessmen were respected for their wealth and success, their primary focus on profit was perceived as less noble than their contributions to society through learning or government service. The most esteemed members of this class were the wisemen, scholars, advisors and officials. Their invaluable contributions to the Emperor's governance were recognised through their knowledge, virtue and intellectual pursuits. Their writings and intellectual endeavours were highly valued and contributed to the state's development. The second most respected class consisted of farmers, who were responsible for cultivating crops and providing food for the population. They were regarded as the foundation of the economy, ensuring the sustenance of the entire population. Artisans, technicians, engineers and construction experts, who possessed specialised skills, were the third most esteemed class. Their contributions were instrumental in developing technical tools and facilitating daily life. The business community, comprising merchants, held a lowly position in society, regarded as the least respected class. The Emperor held a disdain for businessmen, believing they prioritised money over morality and would resort to any means, ethical or immoral, to achieve financial gain. Consequently, few businessmen sought proximity to the Emperor. While there were methods to evade the Emperor's disdain, businessmen were generally the least welcomed and least respected members of the royal court due to their perceived greed for wealth. However, this perception has shifted over time, not only in China but also in other parts of the world. Businessmen have played a pivotal role in the country's economic growth, exemplified by the billionaire founder of Ali Baba, Jack Ma. The concept of 'Chinese businessman wisdom' has emerged, referring to the practical, astute, and often pragmatic approach to business that is highly esteemed by both Chinese and international audiences. The traditional hierarchical structure has undergone a gradual softening, and various professions, including business, are now recognised for their unique contributions to society. The contemporary emphasis on economic development has fostered a more positive attitude towards business and entrepreneurship. The government actively encourages entrepreneurship and private enterprise, acknowledging the indispensable role of businesses in the nation's development. Nevertheless, certain actions are considered unacceptable and should not be crossed. Jack Ma's conduct a few years ago prompted many to draw upon ancient wisdom and draw parallels between the past and the present. His interactions with the central bank invariably drew comparisons to the past and often served as an example of a businessman attempting to exert control over the central bank. The context involved technical difficulties experienced by Ali-Pay, a digital payment system, in conjunction with the central bank. Upon making his public complaint, Jack Ma faced significant repercussions from the Chinese authorities. His passing remark about China's finance system was interpreted as a mockery by the Beijing authorities, leading to questions about his intentions. They expressed concern that Jack Ma might intend to control the finance system through Ali-Pay. As a result, Jack Ma encountered substantial opposition from the authorities. They argued that the Central Bank is a trusted institution – in fact a public Trust – that efficiently manages and looks after the interests of the people. If allowed to operate like a Western capital institution, entities such as Ali-Pay could potentially disrupt the system and harm the interests of the Chinese people. The official backlash compelled Jack Ma to take a break from business – a sort of sabbatical. However, he recently resurfaced with more empathetic views on China's financial system – more aligned with the national ethos as projected by the leadership. A Chinese friend described him as helpful and engaged in significant philanthropic activities – something expected of every affluent Chinese who are expected to pay back after benefitting under the system, which rests on a national spirit and ethos that keep citizens at the centre. The citizen, says the ancient Chinese philosophy, is central to a state's stability, and hence his/her welfare is paramount for the political economy. All indicators suggest the Chinese Communist Party continues to follow that golden philosophy. It's yet to be seen how much the Trump-Musk acrimony hurts the people. There couldn't have been a better validation of the Chinese definition of a businessman than the mutual public trolling both Trump and Musk indulged in following the implosion of their alliance.
Express Tribune
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Indo-US posturing on China via Bangladesh?
The writer heads the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, Islamabad. He is currently a visiting Research Fellow at Fudan University, Shanghai Listen to article A Zee News report on May 29 suggests the intentions of Indian and US security establishments in the coming months. It also points to the possible deterioration of Sino-Indian relations and a spike in regional tensions due to the emergence of a so-called "Bangladesh-Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran -China strategic axis". India deployed Rafale fighter jets and the Russian-made S-400 air defence system at the Siliguri Corridor, a strategically important stretch, due to threats from Dhaka, according to Zee News. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 30 emphasised "the real and imminent threat China poses". He said Beijing is "credibly preparing to potentially use military force to alter the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific" and that the US is reorienting toward deterring aggression by communist China. Both developments are centred around China. Let's examine the US posturing towards China. The US establishment focuses on the "ascendent China challenge", projecting military build-up and war-games as aggressive Chinese posturing. However, history contradicts this. Has China ever invaded another country or used deadly ammunition on foreign territories? Has it occupied an alien country like the US did in Afghanistan, Iraq or Libya? Has Beijing ever quietly endorsed or condoned a genocide, like Israel's repression against Palestinians? Beijing got back Hong Kong after a century of negotiations with the British and is following the same approach for Taiwan, which it considers part of One China. For President Xi Jinping, reuniting Taiwan with the mainland is a mission his generation is committed to achieving. Raising alarm over war drills, a legitimate right of sovereign nations, contradicts US-NATO war games, including in the South China Sea. The latest example was the largest joint military exercises between the US and the Philippines in April, involving 17,000 troops to simulate war with China over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Why would China's marine patrols and exercises be questioned without supporting evidence? After challenging Pakistan and losing multiple aircraft on May 7, New Delhi is now deflecting criticism by bullying Bangladesh in indirect messaging to China. A Zee News report as well as a backgrounder by The New Indian Express reflect the Indian establishment's current focus on Beijing and Dhaka. It noted that the interim government in Dhaka is reportedly leaning toward China and Pakistan, which could reshape India's strategic balance in the east. The report also detailed the reinforcement of the 22km Siliguri Corridor, India's only land link to its northeastern states, which sits at the crossroads of Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and China. The Siliguri Corridor in West Bengal connects India's mainland to its northeastern states, known as the Seven Sisters. Any disruption in this narrow strip between Nepal and Bangladesh would sever India's northeastern states from the rest of India. The deployment of the S-400 air defence system and a Rafale squadron at Hashimara Airbase is more than just tactical positioning; it's a strategic warning. India's military posturing at the Siliguri Corridor is a show of strength and a declaration that any misadventure from the north (China) or east (Bangladesh) will be met with full force," highlights The New Indian Express report. India's overreaction began after Bangladesh's interim leader Dr Muhammad Yunus referred to India's northeast as landlocked during his China visit in March. New Delhi promptly restricted certain Bangladeshi exports through its entry points, exempting Nepal and Bhutan though, signaling that undermining India's strategic autonomy in the region has economic and political consequences. The Indian sensitivity primarily stems from Sheikh Hasina's rise to power in August 2024, which diminished India's clout gained over the past two decades. The growing Dhaka-Beijing proximity causes anxiety in New Delhi, especially after the Yunus administration moved the $1 billion Teesta River project to China and decided to revive the 1931 Lalmonirhat airbase .This airbase is near the Siliguri Corridor, which China has also promised to rehabilitate. The Hegseth speech and Indian defence reinforcement at the Siliguri Corridor are both directed at China. Even though the US and India may disagree over tariffs, China will likely force both into a convenient embrace after the recent strategic shift in the region. Both countries may use the feared China-Bangladesh-Sri Lanka-Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran axis as a justification for attacking China and undermining its interests. However, this may hurt the combined interests of India and the US more than China's, which has built a vast community across Africa and Asia through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) rather than intimidation and military interventions. What we need in these times of turbulence across the globe, and the disruption that an aggressive Donald Trump has caused, is intensified mutually beneficial cooperation instead of artificially drummed-up threats to unjustifiably demonise target countries.
Express Tribune
30-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
After DeepSeek, China's JC10 moment
The writer heads the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, Islamabad. He is currently a visiting Research Fellow at Fudan University, Shanghai Listen to article Amidst the intricate tapestry of Chinese intellectual and academic circles, a distinct sense of pride permeates the nation's achievements. The recent, albeit perilous, Indo-Pak confrontation (May 7-10) serves as a catalyst for this sentiment. As the ongoing war of information and propaganda intensifies, Chinese intellectuals eagerly celebrate the groundbreaking milestones achieved through their technological advancements, particularly in the domains of AI-driven satellites, jet fighters and missiles, in collaboration with the Pakistan Air Force. They find amusement in the spotlight that has been bestowed upon their defence hardware, which emerged triumphant after four days of engagement. Following the DeepSeek, Beijing and Shanghai have experienced a collective sense of triumph akin to the JC10-PL15 Moment for most academics. This moment is fueled by the successful demonstration of their technology, which has garnered widespread attention. An excerpt from The National Interest elucidates the recriminations between the Indian and French governments over access to source codes for the Rafale jets. These events have engendered both anger in India and amusement in Beijing. Chinese social media platforms have been abuzz with these developments, as they find amusement in the circumstances. After all, why should they not? Chinese weapons and warplanes exceeded expectations during the conflict. When news emerged of India's inability to access Dassault's source code, coinciding with India's capture of an intact Chinese PL-15 missile, one of Beijing's "wolf warrior", diplomats took to X to mock New Delhi: "India invested $288 million per Rafale, yet they lack access to the source code. Furthermore, they assert their ability to 'extract the software' from the wreckage of a PL-15 missile. However, they are unable to access the fundamental functions of their own Rafale jets." While exuberance is understandable, it should not be construed as complacency. The Indo-Pak confrontation has only served as a catalyst for further pursuit of excellence through meticulous deliberation and strategic planning, both domestically and internationally. Discussions at universities, think tanks and official quarters continue to be influenced by the recent four-day conflict between nuclear rivals, India and Pakistan. The episode appears to have energised Chinese academia to engage in forward planning and explore options for enhanced and more effective cooperation with partner countries, particularly Pakistan. Why is this the case? Consistency is ensured by the Communist Party, which underpins China's entire political economy and the intellectual growth led by a dedicated leadership that ascends the political ladder through a rigorous accountability process. Only those with the utmost integrity and demonstrated commitment to the party and the people are successful in this process. What unites these individuals is an unwavering faith in the well-being of citizens and the belief that investment in human resources is essential for progress. Whether it is the iconic Great Wall in Beijing or Shanghai, Yiwu or Guangzhou, China's defence hi-tech capabilities, dozens of high-altitude glass bridges, or Shanghai's Global Finance Center, they all convey the same message: unwavering policy consistency, honesty and visionary leadership, coupled with absolute focus on the welfare and education of the people. These factors have transformed China and propelled it to a position where it is now asserting itself even against the United States. While President Trump's bullying tactics were met with resistance, China agreed to engage in diplomatic discussions but refused to yield. The recent grand summit in Kuala Lumpur, which involved China, ASEAN and the GCC, provided a glimpse of Beijing's unwavering commitment to peaceful engagement and win-win cooperation rather than coercive diplomacy. While President Biden's Build Back Better World initiative has seemingly lost momentum, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) continues to thrive and attract an increasing number of countries. Since Xi Jinping assumed the presidency in 2012, China has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in research and capacity building. Notably, the Chinese military has undergone a significant reduction in personnel, with nearly 300,000 personnel being eliminated. Additionally, the generals have been instructed to prioritise their professional duties and future challenges rather than engaging in commercial ventures. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) must maintain its focus on excellence and avoid any involvement in commercial activities. Both the PLA and the Communist Party have endured severe purges of high-ranking officials for corruption, inefficiency and betrayal of their responsibilities. The driving force behind China's current success lies in an ecosystem anchored in solid planning, facilitated knowledge and skill development, and the pursuit of excellence. This system operates on merit and celebrates knowledge and skills. Coincidentally, as I was concluding this article, a public service text message arrived on my mobile device, reminding us that May 30th is the 9th National Science and Technology Workers' Day and coincides with the 25th National Science and Technology Activity Week. "We extend our utmost respect to all science and technology workers. Let us harness innovation as our guiding principle and hard work as our propulsion, collectively constructing the vision of a robust nation through science and technology," said the message from the ministry. This inspiring message serves as a testament to the recognition of science and technology as the indispensable key to self-sufficiency and competitiveness, positioning China at a significant advantage over other nations. It is unsurprising that China is experiencing a surge of technological achievements that few countries can boast of - something that instills a sense of confidence and fosters national pride.
NDTV
27-04-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Pak Army Says Killed 54 Militants Trying To Cross Border From Afghanistan
Islamabad: Pakistan's army said Sunday its soldiers killed 54 militants who had tried to enter the country by crossing its northwestern border with Afghanistan. "Movement of a large group... who were trying to infiltrate through Pakistan-Afghanistan border was detected by the security forces" in the northern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa between Friday and Sunday, according to an army statement. The "group of jihadists was specifically infiltrating on behest of their 'foreign masters' to undertake high profile terrorist activities inside Pakistan," it said, adding that 54 militants had been killed. Pakistan is grappling with a broad uptick in militancy coinciding with the Taliban's 2021 return to power in neighbouring Afghanistan, where Islamabad claims attackers are now taking shelter. Separately, India has blamed Pakistan of supporting "cross-border terrorism" after gunmen killed 26 people on April 22 in the worst attack on civilians in the contested Kashmir region in years. Islamabad has denied any involvement. The Pakistani army said Sunday a "large cache of weapons, ammunition & explosives was also recovered" from the militants attempting to enter Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It comes a day after 15 militants were killed in the province in three clashes that also left two soldiers dead. More than 200 people, mostly security forces, have been killed in attacks since the start of the year by armed groups fighting the government in both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces, according to an AFP tally. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told reporters in Lahore on Sunday that the militants' "foreign masters are pushing them to enter Pakistan". "Our soldiers attacked them from three sides and killed 54 (militants)," Naqvi said. "This is the biggest number of this ongoing operation till today, such a big number has never been killed before." Last year was the deadliest in nearly a decade in Pakistan, according to the Centre for Research and Security Studies in Islamabad, with the vast majority of the attacks near the western border with Afghanistan. Pakistan accuses the Taliban government of failing to rout out militants organising on Afghan soil, a charge Kabul routinely denies.
