Pakistan wins 3-2 Davis Cup tie against Iran By.Asghar Ali Mubarak

Posted on February 5, 2017

Islamabad-Pakistan won the Davis cup tie Iran 3-2 here at Islamabad Pakistan Sports complex Tennis Court. The visiting team Iran on Sunday registered back-to-back consolation victories against hosts Pakistan on the final day of their Davis Cup Group II Asia-Oceania zone match. Pakistan, hosting international tennis after a 12-year hiatus, had already won the tie by taking the first two singles and then the doubles match on last Saturday.Iran’s Hamid Reza Nadaf beat Pakistan’s Mohammad Abid Ali Khan Akbar by 6-7 (4-7), 6-4, 6-3 in the first match of the day and the fourth rubber in the tie. Shahin Khaledan defeated Muhammad Abid 7-6 (10-8), 6-3.Earlier the Pakistani pair was replaced from earlier nomination and Aisamul Haq and Aqeel Khan who are the best pair for doubles and having impressive record in the tennis history of country. Iran team comprised Alborz Akhawan and Anoosha Shahgholi, Score in favor of Pakistan was 6-1, 6-2, 6-2.Pakistan was 2-0 up on the first day of the tie.President PTF Salim Saifullah Khan congratulated the team and thanked ITF to make this tie a successful event. Meanwhile before match the ITF commitment award was given to Hameedul Haq for his outstanding performances.  Mr. Salim Saifullah Khan, president PTF handed over the award to Mr, Stephan (ITF referee) who decorated Hamid.The Davis Cup Commitment Award is presented by the ITF to players who have shown long-standing dedication to representing their country in this prestigious competition. Each Award recipient has competed in a minimum of 20 home or away ties or 50 ties at any level of the competition (including Zone Group Events) over their career.The Award was conceived as part of the ITF’s 2013 Centenary celebrations and was launched at the 100th Davis Cup Final in 2012. A total of 339 players have met the criteria, with awards presented at ties throughout the year.Some facts and Achievements of Mr. Hamid ul Haq,First year played: 1984 to 1997,Year Played: 12, Number of Ties played: 21 Win / lose Singles: 19/11, Wins / Lose Doubles: 5-8, Total Wins / Lose 24-19, In 1984 he played 7 matches from which he won 6 and lose 1 only.He was part of team which created history of Pakistan tennis when Pakistan played Eastern Zone Final in 1984.It was one step away from Qualifying for the world group when losing the 1984 Eastern Zone Final against Japan. Earlier Pakistani tennis stars Aisam-ul-Haq  and Aqeel Khan saw Pakistan off to a winning start on the opening day of their Asia Oceania Group II Davis Cup tie against Iran on first day .Aqeel and Aisam, both defeated their rivals Shahin Khaledan 7-6, 6-4, 6-2 and Anoosha Shahgholi 6-1, 6-2, 6-2, respectively, giving Pakistan a 2-0 lead over Iran.Pakistani team comprises Aqeel Khan, Aisam-ul-Haq, Abid Ali Akbar and Abid Mushtaq. Rashid Malik was the captain.

Pakistan a safe country to host sport events: Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman By. Asghar Ali Mubarak

Posted on February 5, 2017

Pakistan a safe country to host sport events: Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman

 

By. Asghar Ali Mubarak

 

ISLAMABAD: Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal President Pakistan Ski Federation Sohail Aman has said that has said that Pakistan is a peaceful and safe country to host elite sports events.“The participation of the ski players from nine different countries is greater importance and it will convey a positive message to the world that Pakistan is a safe country for sports activities,” he said here on other day after distributing prizes among the ski players. The prize distribution ceremony of Chief of Air Staff Karakorum Ski Championship and Malam Jabba International Alpine Ski Cup on other day held at Serene hotel Islamabad. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail expressed the hope that other teams from abroad will visit Pakistan in near future.“The members of the visiting skiing teams after their return to their country will help in creating a better and positive image of Pakistan which is a safe country for sports activities,” he asserted.He congratulated the sponsors for holding the mega events first time in the history of Pakistan. The Pakistan Ski Federation considers it a milestone achievement that the International Ski Federation has approved 16 international events for Pakistan, which would not only promote soft image of Pakistan in the world but also earn revenue and boost tourism. The  Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, Air Marshal Asad Lodhi, President Ski Federation of Pakistan (SFP)and CEO Serena Hotel Mr. Aziz Boolani were present  along with other dignities like Ukraine Ambasdar to Pakistan  H.E. VOLOYMYR LAKOMOV, Barzilian Ambasdar to Pakistan H.E. Claudio Raja Gabaglia Lins .At this occasion the CEO Serena Hotel Mr. Aziz Boolani said ‘’Sports impact a plethora of public arenas, coincide with community values and reaffirm key social values for athletes especially but also the spectators’’ ,the Serena hotel is proud to be associated with numerous sports initiatives which promote wellbeing and inclusion through healthy activities. Mr. Aziz Boolani, CEO of Serena Hotels, said, “Sports Diplomacy is an integral part of Serena’s efforts to build stronger relations with communities. Sports bring people together and participation in sports helping improving leadership, teamwork, and communication skills along with promoting a healthier lifestyle.Earlier the international Skiers dominated the CAS Karakoram Ski championship played at Malam Jabba, Swat. The championship was shifted from Naltar Ski Resort to Malam Jabba. International Skiers from Morocco, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Greece, Afghanistan, Turkey, Ukraine and Tajikistan participated in the CAS Karakoram Ski Championship. Jan Jakubco of Slovakia got 1st position in 1st race of Men’s Slalom category while Vasyle Telychuk of Ukraine remained 2nd. Pakistan’s Olympian Muhammad Karim remained 3rd in the race.In the 2nd race of the same category both Ukrainians Ivan Kovbasnyuk and Vasyle Telychuk got 1st and 2nd positions respectively. The 3rd position was again bagged by Pakistan’s talented skier Muhammad Karim. In the Women Slalom category, Ukrainian skier Tetyana Tikun got 1st position while Pakistani skiers Ifra Wali and Fatima Sohail secured 2nd and 3rd position in the 1st race of this category. In the 2nd race of same category, both Ukraine athletesTetyana Tikun and Anastasia Gorbunova got the 1st and 2nd positions. Pakistani international skier Ifra Wali had a wonderful race and remained 3rd.In the 1st race of Women Giant Slalom category, both Ukraine athletes Tetyana Tikun and Anastasia Gorbunova got the 1st and 2nd positions. Pakistani young talented skier Fatima Sohail had a wonderful race and remained 3rd.Several International Skiers from various countries including Morocco, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Greece, Afghanistan, Turkey, Ukraine and Tajikistan along with Pakistani skiers participated in both men and women categories of these events. The complete results of the both events are given below:Malam Jabba International Alpine Ski Cup Men’s Categories, category Giant Slalom-I, Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine), Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine) got 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.
In category Giant Slalom-II, Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine) declared 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively.
In category Slalom-I, Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine) while category Slalom-II, Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine) got positions respectively.In Women’s Categories Giant Slalom-I, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Anastasia Gorbunova (Ukraine), Ifra Wali (Pakistan) while category Giant Slalom-II, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Anastasia Gorbunova (Ukraine), Ifra Wali (Pakistan) got positions respectively.In category Slalom-I, Ifra Wali (Pakistan), Fatima Sohail (Pakistan), Zainab Sohail (Pakistan) while in Slalom-II, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Anastasia Gorbunova (Ukraine), Ifra Wali (Pakistan) got 1st, 2nd and 3rd potions respectively.In CAS Karakorum Ski Championship:
Men’s Categories Giant Slalom-I, Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine) and Muhammad Karim (Pakistan) while Giant Slalom-II category Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine) and in Slalom-I Jan Jakubco (Slovakia), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine), Muhammad Karim (Pakistan) and Slalom-II, Ivan Kovbasnyuk (Ukraine), Vasyle Telychuk (Ukraine), Muhammad Karim (Pakistan) got 1st, 2nd and 3rd position respectively.In Women’s Categories Giant Slalom-I, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Anastasia Gorbunova (Ukraine), Fatima Sohail (Pakistan) while Giant Slalom-II, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Anastasia Gorbunova (Ukraine), Umamma Wali (Pakistan) and Slalom-I, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Ifra Wali (Pakistan), Fatima Sohail (Pakistan) and in Slalom-II, Tetyana Tikun (Ukraine), Anastasia Gorbunova (Ukraine), Ifra Wali (Pakistan) got 1st, 2nd and 3rd position respectively.The chief guest awarded medals and cash prizes to the winning ski players.The government of Pakistan and Ski Federation of Pakistan under the auspices of Pakistan Air Force decided to bring the exciting winter sport back to the scenic resort after a successful operation against the extremists in the valley.All sports activities were ceased due to the military operation against these anti state elements.The resumption of ski activities would not only boost the tourism in the region but also portray the positive image of Pakistan on the international canvas. Making history in the field of skiing in Pakistan, the first international ski championship — Alpine International Cup Malam Jabba at Gilgit-Baltistan.The Ski Federation after sending two international skiers namely Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Karim to Vancouver, Canada Olympics and Sochi, Russia winter Olympics in 2010 and 2014 respectively started efforts to get its ski slopes in Malam Jabba and Naltar the international status for Federation of International Ski (FIS) races.In 2016, the FIS experts after visiting Pakistan approved both the slopes for international competitions besides approving two international races at Naltar.Soon after the approval, the Pakistan Ski Federation arranged Chief of Air Staff International Karakoram Ski Cup 2016 at Naltar in which Turkey sent its six international skiers. After the successful arrangement of the two international races, the international federation approved 16 races eight each for men and women in both the slopes – Malam Jabba and Naltar.

Leading European and Asian skiers were invited for the two international events. It is worth mentioning that Malam Jabba will witness these international competitions after 12 years as skiing activities under qualified experts had almost been ended at Malam Jabba for the last 12 years when the prolonged wave of militancy affected every segment of life in the scenic Swat valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Only local ski activities under the local administration are being held in a limited manner. Earlier, for the preparations slopes heavy machinery was applied for pressing the snow and making world class arrangements for the events. Around two kilometer long Naltar Ski Slope which was having all basic facilities like chairlift, snow pressing machine, time devices and other important tools. Proper accommodation for the international players arranged at Naltar. More than 20 ski associations and departments from across the country, including Pakistan Army, Pakistan Air Force, Pakistan Navy, Higher Education Commission, Civil Aviation Authority, Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts and others participated in the national championship. For the international event Skiers from some nine countries participated in the event. Winter sports observers believe that these events will open new avenues for promotion of the winter sports in Pakistan. Although skiing is in its initial stages in Pakistan, there are various skiing spots in Gilgit Baltistan offers a number of skiing spots for tourists. Some of the fine skiing destinations in Pakistan include Naltar in Gilgit, Burzil, Ratu and Astore. However of all the destinations Malam Jabba some 300 kilometers from Islamabad offers excellent skiing opportunities. Located on the border to Afghanistan, Malam Jabba is about 300 kilometers from Islamabad. It takes about six hours by road to reach Malam Jabba. You can also take Pakistan Airways flight from Islamabad to reach Saidu Sharif, which is about 45 kilometers away from Malam Jabba.Malam Jabba Skiing resort is located in the Swat valley in the North West Frontier Province. Accommodation is available at the Swat Valley. Malam Jabba offers wonderful opportunity for skiing, the scenery is stunning, where snow capped peaks seem kissing the azure sky on a clear day.The other two well known skiing destinations in Pakistan are Nalter and Nathiagali. Nalter lies in the Gilgit Karakoram range and is one of the oldest skiing resorts in Pakistan. Before embarking on a journey to Nalter, it is essential to find out more about the skiing resort as it belongs to the Pakistan Air Force and prior permission may require. Nathiagali is located at an elevation of some 8000 feet in the Himalayas. Accommodation and proper infrastructure may be difficult to find. Pakistan is a wonderful place to tour and ski on the powdery slopes of skiing resorts in Malam Jabba. Situated some 40km away from Gilgit, the Naltar Valley is home to all skiing activity in Pakistan. They say skiing comes naturally to almost every girl, boy, man and even housewives in Naltar. Most Naltaris cannot afford the expensive ski kits available in the market and many thus tend to carve their own kits from wood chopped from the pine forests nearby. On these same home-made wooden skis trained Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Karim; the duo represented Pakistan in the Vancouver (Canada) and Sochi (Russia) winter Olympics respectively. Abbas’ homemade wooden kit is presently displayed in a Canadian museum. Skiing is as much a tradition in Naltar as it is an identity.

The chairlifts therefore are part of the Ski Federation of Pakistan’s (SFP) endeavours to harness Naltari passion and develop Naltar as a world-class skiing resort in Pakistan, equipped with facilities and amenities that are comparable with any winter sport destination across the globe. They have been brought to Pakistan with the help of Swiss and Chinese experts. Naltari ski chairlifts are now the only operational ones in Pakistan for winter games purposes; there used to be another one in Malam Jabba (some 40km from Saidu Sharif), but it fell victim to terrorism. Three chairlifts also operate in Muree, Patraiata, and Ayyubia, but those are only for tourism purposes and not for skiing or any other winter games purpose.Pakistan Air Force (PAF), who operate a base camp in Naltar initiated various welfare projects for the children of Naltar, including free education and ski training. With Naltar already boasting an indigenous ski-making cottage industry, the idea was to deliver a facility where international competitions. It was felt at the time that all the basic requirements of the Federation de International Skiing (FIS), such as a ski slope, snow pressing machines, and ski chairlifts should are available at Naltar’s ski resort. Tourism experts in the country are attaching great importance to the ski chairlifts in the promotion of skiing and increasing tourism to Pakistan, especially to Gilgit Baltistan. Many argue that due to the law and order situation in the country, Pakistani sport lost almost all international competitions despite the abundance of great talent. But this situation can be reversed through Naltar’s ski resort.Then there are problems with communication and lodging facilities. Mr Salman, director of a private group, Sports Management Islamabad, contends that the tourism department should attract investors to construct lodging facilities. “Organizations such as the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) or the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), who have their own ski teams and take special interest in Naltar, should build resorts and motels to accommodate tourists,” he argues. Meanwhile, authorities in Gilgit Baltistan are excited about the follow-on benefit of the ski chairlifts and other facilities. “Not only can winter sports thrive but summer ski sports such as grass skiing and roller skating can also be promoted,” says SFP’s Javed, who also serves as an office bearer of the Alpine Club of Pakistan. “I have no two opinions about this, but to say that sooner or later, Pakistan will be a major player in the field of winter games across the world.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City School’s Early Years Education Symposium – Breaking New Grounds By. Asghar Ali Mubarak

Posted on February 3, 2017

Islamabad: As a leader in Early Childhood Education, The City School (TCS) Northern region organized an Early Years Education (EYE) Symposium: Let Me Be. The seminar featured national, regional and…

Source: City School’s Early Years Education Symposium – Breaking New Grounds By. Asghar Ali Mubarak

City School’s Early Years Education Symposium – Breaking New Grounds By. Asghar Ali Mubarak

Posted on February 3, 2017

Islamabad: As a leader in Early Childhood Education, The City School (TCS) Northern region organized an Early Years Education (EYE) Symposium: Let Me Be. The seminar featured national, regional and local experts in early childhood learning and provided a platform for TCS management, EYE heads and school heads to discuss the challenges, opportunities and strategies to enhance Early Years educational programs. The conference was hosted at The City School Capital campus and the notable guests included TCS Chairperson, Dr. Farzana, human rights activist and academic Dr. Farzana Bari, Ms. Reena Singh, TCS Regional Directors and senior management from the South and Central regions.The symposium welcome address was given by the Regional Director Ms. Shireen Jawaid and was followed by several thought-provoking presentations by the keynote speakers including Capital Campus Principal Mr. John Proctor, Dr. Farzana Bari, Ms. Reena Singh via skype, General Manager EYE Ms. Tayyaba Amer, Administrator Marketing Ms. Fiona Hallworth and Margalla Network Head Ms. Shahmina Kamal. Dr. Bari spoke on the importance of developing a child-centered approach to learning in her presentation “The Child Comes First” while Mr. Proctor talked about the history of early years reading programs and reading development.To encourage discourse and identify strategies to improve early years programs and student retention, two panel sessions were held. “Achieving Excellence in Academics” and “The Early Years Set-up – Challenges and the Way Forward” were panels led by experts in the field of early childhood education. The “Let Me Be” symposium was the first in a series of symposiums that will be held in Islamabad, Peshawar, Lahore and Karachi in March, 2017.The City School vision places childhood at the center of practice and pedagogy for the early years. The up-coming symposia will venture into new territory that brings diverse perspectives, evidence-based practice, traditions and new thinking together. TCS aims to provide a platform for EY professionals and stakeholders to connect with colleagues, share and consider early childhood teaching and learning through practical, theoretical and reflective lenses.

Davis Cup Tai 2017: Aisamul Haq, Aqeel Khan, give Pakistan winning start against Iran

Posted on February 3, 2017

Davis Cup Tai 2017: Aisamul Haq, Aqeel Khan, give Pakistan winning start against Iran

Posted on February 3, 2017

Davis Cup Tai 2017: Aisamul Haq, Aqeel Khan, give Pakistan winning start against Iran     By.Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD-Pakistani tennis stars Aisam-ul-Haq  and Aqeel Khan saw Pakistan off to a w…

Source: Davis Cup Tai 2017: Aisamul Haq, Aqeel Khan, give Pakistan winning start against Iran

Davis Cup Tai 2017: Aisamul Haq, Aqeel Khan, give Pakistan winning start against Iran

Posted on February 3, 2017

Davis Cup Tai 2017: Aisamul Haq, Aqeel Khan, give Pakistan winning start against Iran

 

 

By.Asghar Ali Mubarak

ISLAMABAD-Pakistani tennis stars Aisam-ul-Haq  and Aqeel Khan saw Pakistan off to a winning start on the opening day of their Asia Oceania Group II Davis Cup tie against Iran on Friday.Aqeel and Aisam, both playing singles, defeated their rivals Shahin Khaledan 7-6, 6-4, 6-2 and Anoosha Shahgholi 6-1, 6-2, 6-2, respectively, giving Pakistan a 2-0 lead over Iran.Pakistani team comprises Aqeel Khan, Aisam-ul-Haq, Abid Ali Akbar and Abid Mushtaq. Rashid Malik is the captain. This event is Pakistan’s first Davis Cup tennis tie at home in 12 years, as the hosts were earlier forced to play at neutral venues due to security fears.Iran’s team consists of Anoosha Shahgholi, Shahin Khaledan, Hamid Reza Nadaf, and Amir Hossein Badi. Their non-playing captain is Saeid Ahmadvand.The tie, which is the first round of Asia Oceania Group II, is being played from February 3-5 at Pakistan Sports complex’s refurbished synthetic courts. Pakistan and Iran have played each other thrice, with former winning two ties (both in Iran) and latter winning once in Pakistan. Pakistan is set to play its first Davis Cup tie at home in 12 long years after the Iranian squad landed in Islamabad for the Asia/Oceania Group II tie. The Secretary, Pakistan Tennis Federation  Mr.Khalid Rehmani, said “this is very important for Pakistan tennis which has suffered a lot due to no Davis Cup tie or international tennis being held in Pakistan in the last 12-years,” Rehmani said.He said the PTF with the cooperation of the government had made top security arrangements for the Iranian squad.“It is after much difficulty we got the International Tennis Federation to allow us to host our Davis Cup tie at home,” he said. Saeed Ahmadvand, the coach of the Iranian team said Islamabad is a beautiful and safe city. Mean while Vietnam, Hong Kong, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Kuwait and Philippines are the other competing teams in the Group I. Earlier the in the past years, Philippines, Indonesia, Kuwait, Thailand have all refused to play their Davis Cup ties in Pakistan and the PTF was forced to host the ties at neutral venues. The Pakistan top seed tennis players Aisam Ul Haq, Aqeel Khan, Abid Ali Akbar , Abid Mustaq, Rashid Malik non-playing team captain stated that  Pakistan is a safe country for international sports. Pakistan top player Aisam Ul Haq said that the event will not only uplift tennis but also uplift all other sports in the country. “I am very much excited playing in front of home crowd in home court”, Aisam Ul Haq expressed his feelings .Aisam ul Haq said he is happy to defeat Iranian rivals, “we have never lost a single tie since 1998”, he said. Aqeel Khan said that hard court is favoring us, as Iranians were trained on clay and grass courts. He said we have already defeated much better players then Iranian that why today match was not difficult for us. Rashid Malik non-playing team captain said that in past Pakistan was not given an opportunity to host international event which has affected the player’s performance.Iranian contingent includes Seifollah Behzadpour coach, Mostafa Ataei trainer, Mehrshad Poursaeed Esfahani physician, Saeed Ahmadvand team captain, players are Anoosha Shahgholi, Shahin Khaledan, Alborz Akhavan, Amir Hossein Badi, Nadaf Sachani Hamidreza. “As far as the hospitality and the hotels are concerned, everything is perfect,” Ahmedvand told media. “So far we are very happy to be here and we will looking for the better  results in next match in doubles and reverse singles  against Pakistan. “We are depending on Shahin [Khaledan], he is our best player,” said Ahmedvand. “He joined the team during the last phase of our camp because he lives in Spain, but he has performed strongly for our side in the previous ties.”Iran won their Group II play-off against Syria 2-1 to get promoted to Group II where Shahgholi won the singles match, but Khaledan was again the key player as he helped his side win singles rubbers in three other ties that got the team to Group II.

 

House arrest of Hafiz Saeed part of NAP, India should look towards itself before pointing fingers at others: FO Spokesperson Nafees Zakaria By.Asghar Ali Mubarak

Posted on February 3, 2017

 

House arrest of Hafiz Saeed part of NAP, India should look towards itself before pointing fingers at others: FO

Spokesperson Nafees Zakaria

 

By.Asghar Ali Mubarak

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Office spokesperson Nafees Zakaria has said that the house arrest of Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed is under Pakistan’s international obligations and implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP).He expressed these views while responding to a question of Daily Mail correspondent Asghar Ali Mubarak during the weekly media briefing. The question was’’ Modi government is always blaming Pakistan and is also trying to sabotage the indigenous movement of Kashmiris through these efforts. Now, India has taken the issue of Hafiz Saeed to the Trump administration and it seems that Pakistan is taking actions against him under some pressure. Your comments please! (Asghar Ali Mubarak – Daily Mail Islamabad)

Answer;’’I have partially replied to your question. What Pakistan has done is actually in line with the international obligation as well as the implementation of NAP’’. ‘’Let me also remind you  that India hides behind the bogey of terrorism while it carries out terrorist acts not only on its soil and blames it on others but also uses other countries’ soil to destabilize for terrorist activities especially against Pakistan. India also finances terrorist activities in our country. India tries to portray Kashmiri indigenous movement as an act of terrorism. No country in the world has subscribed to this notion. OIC, in its declaration adopted at the Istanbul Summit, out-rightly rejected India’s false claim of terrorism in Kashmir’’. ‘’India is carrying out all these activities to, primarily; divert international attention from the atrocities it is committing in IoK, which has raised huge concerns among the international community. There have been debates in the Parliaments of many countries; civil society members from the UK, Europe, North America and the Nordic region are all raising their voice, and talking about India’s crimes against humanity in Indian occupied Kashmir. Many human rights organizations are carrying out activities to sensitize and create awareness amongst the world community, urging India to immediately halt bloodshed in IoK and early resolution of the Kashmir dispute. ’’Zakaria said that Pakistan has taken this action against all the proscribed elements required under the UN sanctions. He said that Pakistan’s action against terrorist elements were without any discrimination, and in the larger national interest. He said that the country’s sacrifices and losses had been repeatedly acknowledged by all the countries. “Our commitment to eradicate the scourge of terrorism is beyond doubt. But India should first look towards itself before pointing fingers at others.”He alleged that India was involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan, and Islamabad had irrefutable evidence to prove that India had been financing terrorism in the country. He said that Indian officer Kulbhushan Yadav’s arrest also proved that New Delhi was involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan.To a question; he said that the Pakistani Mission in India was in contact with Indian authorities for the early release of three Pakistani boys.To another query regarding the increase of 10 percent defence budget by India, he said that Pakistan wanted peace and stability in South Asian region, which is the cornerstone of the country’s foreign policy. “To the contrary, India has hegemonic designs,” he said.The spokesperson said that during the last eight days, 40 Kashmiris had been injured, of which six were fighting for their lives. He said that Indian occupation forces had been using pellet guns and PAVA shells on the people, inflicting serious injuries.He said that the Indian drive of changing the demography of Indian-held Kashmir through settlement of non-Kashmiris was a blatant violation of the UN Security Council resolutions on Kashmir.To a question regarding the new American immigration policy with regard to seven Muslim countries, the spokesperson said that every sovereign country had the right to form its own immigration policy. He said that Pakistan had always had close relations with the US, and hopes for better relations with the new Trump administration. Pakistan’s Ministry of the Interior has stated on other day that detention of Hafiz Saeed, chief of Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) is an issue relating to Pakistan and there is no need of India to ‘comment.’ Nafeez Zakaria has said that Saeed was detained earlier this week under state’s policy. He demanded of India to look towards herself and avoid commenting on issues that do not concern her. There is no need of India to comment on detention of JuD chief, he added. While talking about revised immigration policy of the United States (US) by Trump-led government, Zakaria said that every state has the right to chalk out an immigration policy that it deems appropriate. The spokesman said that former ambassador, Hussain Haqqani is involved in activities that are anti-national and the act on his part is disgraceful.Statements of Indian ministers started pouring in after US-designated terrorist; Hafiz Saeed was put under house arrest on January 30 in Lahore while he was added to Exit Control List (ECL) among 34 representatives of JuD.Saeed was designated a terrorist by United States of America years ago over alleged orchestration of Mumbai attacks in 2008 that claimed over 164 lives and wounded over 300.

 

Record of the Press Briefing by Spokesperson on 02 February 2017

 

Opening Remarks

 

Bismillah IrRehman NirRahim

Assalaam Alaikum

 

There had been queries during last briefings regarding ECO Summit. I wish to inform you that Pakistan is hosting 13th ECO Summit on 1st March. The Summit meeting will be preceded by the Meetings of the Senior Officials and Council of Foreign Ministers. ECO, which comprises 10 Members, has its roots in RCD.During the last 8 days, 40 Kashmiris have been injured in IOK. 6 are in critical condition. 14 have been arrested arbitrarily with some under the lawless law, public safety act (PSA). Indian occupation forces have used pellets and PAVA, inflicting serious injuries. I have highlighted during my last briefings about the Indian drive of changing demography in Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir through settlement of non-Kashmiris, which is a blatant violation of UN Security Council Resolutions on Kashmir dispute. The domicile certificates are being issued by the IOK authorities on the instructions from the BJP Government at the centre. The drive is to convert Muslim majority in Jammu & Kashmir into a minority. Domicile is one of the measures to change the demography. Other measures being perpetual ethnic cleansing; killings in fake encounters; arrests and disappearances; and terrorizing of Kashmiris to force them to flee the occupied territories. Kashmiris have been protesting against the Indian sinister designs. Pakistan expresses solidarity with Kashmiris. Government of Pakistan calls upon the UN, members of UN Security Council, and international community for immediate action to stop Indian drive to alter the demography and to take remedial measures to undo the violations already taken place.Two days from now, Solidarity Day with Kashmiris will be observed. The occasion is observed by organizing activities throughout the country and by Pakistan Missions and Diasporas of Kashmiris and Pakistanis abroad. Earlier a day after India’s foreign ministry released a statement dismissive of Pakistan’s arrest of Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the Foreign Office (FO) urged India to “look towards itself before it points fingers at others”.Indian Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Vikas Swarup had tweeted last Wednesday saying, “Excesses such as yesterday’s orders against Hafiz Saeed have been carried out before.”“Only a credible crackdown on the mastermind of the Mumbai attacks… would be proof of Pakistan’s sincerity,” he added. FO Spokesperson Nafees Zakaria , said, “India should look towards itself before it points fingers towards others.” Zakaria alleged that “India has been involved in terrorist operations in Pakistan,” adding that there is “solid proof” that Indian state actors and institutions are involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan. “The interference of Indian state institutions in Pakistan’s internal matters has been made apparent before the world,” Zakaria said. “Every country has the right to form its own immigration policy,” Zakaria said, referring to an Executive Order issued by United States President Donald Trump last week that bars immigrants belonging to seven Muslim-majority  countries from entering the US.“Pakistan has always had close relations with America,” Zakaria added, hoping for better relations with the Trump administration. During the briefing, the FO spokesperson denied media reports of a ban being imposed by Kuwait on Pakistani visas. “The reports regarding Kuwait are over five years old,” the spokesperson clarified, adding that the rumors may have been fuelled by former US ambassador Hussain Haqqani re-tweeting an old tweet of his on the issue. The FO spokesperson said Indian atrocities in held Kashmir continue with the arrest of 14 Kashmiris last week. Forty others were injured; Zakaria said.He claimed that Kashmir’s population is being converted to Hinduism, adding that India is in violation of the United Nations resolutions. Zakaria called on the international community to take notice of ongoing atrocities in India-held Kashmir.The FO spokesperson also lamented that there had been no response from India regarding the arrest of three Pakistani boys who had crossed the border in Narowal in Sept 2016, despite Pakistan making contact with Indian authorities calling for their release.Pakistan will be hosting an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Islamabad on March 1, Zakaria announced.The summit will be preceded by a ministerial meeting. “The OIC has a played an effective role in Kashmir,” Zakaria said adding that the organisation is “adopting a strong role in solving the problems of Muslim countries.”“Pakistan is seeking solidarity among Muslim nations,” he said. In a sharp reaction to India’s demand for “credible crackdown” on Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Pakistan on Thursday said India should look at its own “involvement” in fomenting militancy on Pakistani soil before pointing fingers at others.India had reacted cautiously to Saeed’s detention, saying only a “credible crackdown” on terror outfits, including Saeed’s, will prove Pakistan’s sincerity as such actions had been taken against the 26/11 mastermind in the past too.Foreign Office Spokesman Nafees Zakaria, at his weekly briefing, was asked to comment on the Indian reaction to Pakistan’s action against Saeed.Zakaria said he had read the Indian reaction and sharply added that India should look at its own role in militancy in Pakistan than pointing a finger at Islamabad. “India itself has been involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan,” he said.Saeed and four other Jamaat-ud Dawa leaders – Abdullah Ubaid, Zafar Iqbal, Abdur Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Niaz – were put under house arrest after an order was issued by Punjab Province’s Interior Ministry on Monday in pursuance to a directive from the Federal Interior Ministry on January 27.During the briefing, Zakaria also claimed that “Indian brutalities against Kashmiris” were going on. He said last year three boys had inadvertently crossed the border from Narowal area in Punjab and were still in an Indian jail, despite efforts to bring them back.India itself involved in terrorist activities in Pakistan:

 

 

Now the Floor is open for Questions

Question

 

Modi government is always blaming Pakistan and is also trying to sabotage the indigenous movement of Kashmiris through these efforts. Now, India has taken the issue of Hafiz Saeed to the Trump administration and it seems that Pakistan is taking actions against him under some pressure. Your comments please! (Asghar Ali Mubarak – Dail Mail Islamabad)

 

Answer

 

I have partially replied to your question. What Pakistan has done is actually in line with the international obligation as well as the implementation of NAP.

 

Let me also remind you  that India hides behind the bogey of terrorism while it carries out terrorist acts not only on its soil and blames it on others but also uses other countries’ soil to destabilize for terrorist activities especially against Pakistan. India also finances terrorist activities in our country. India tries to portray Kashmiri indigenous movement as an act of terrorism. No country in the world has subscribed to this notion. OIC, in its declaration adopted at the Istanbul Summit, out-rightly rejected India’s false claim of terrorism in Kashmir.

 

India is carrying out all these activities to, primarily; divert international attention from the atrocities it is committing in IoK, which has raised huge concerns among the international community. There have been debates in the Parliaments of many countries; civil society members from the UK, Europe, North America and the Nordic region are all raising their voice, and talking about India’s crimes against humanity in Indian occupied Kashmir. Many human rights organizations are carrying out activities to sensitize and create awareness amongst the world community, urging India to immediately halt bloodshed in IoK and early resolution of the Kashmir dispute

 

 

Question

 

What is the status of the case of three teenage boys who had inadvertently crossed international border at Narowal in July 2016 and arrested by BSF? What is the latest update on it and what steps Foreign Office has taken for their early return? (Fayyaz Raja – 92 News)

 

Answer

 

You are referring to three boys Babar Ali, Shahzad Latif, and Ali Raza, who crossed the border inadvertently. Our High Commission in New Delhi has repeatedly approached the Indian government for the repatriation of these individuals. The response from the Indian side is awaited.

 

Question

 

A group of former Indian officials dealing with Pakistan and Kashmir have expressed serious concern over the intrusions and assault against civilians in Indian occupied Kashmir. Voices for the rights of Kashmiri people are rising even in India. Your comments please!

 

Secondly, according to media report, Kuwait has banned visas for Pakistani citizens. Do you have any information?   (Shahid Maitla – ARY NEWS)

 

Answer

 

As to your first question, after the genocide of over half a million Kashmiris in Nov. 1947 by the Indian occupation forces in IOK, India has been committing perpetual genocide of Kashmiris. Since 1989, over 100,000 Kashmiris have been martyred, tens of thousands arrested have vanished into thin air without a trace till to date, tens of thousands have been maimed, and dishonouring of Kashmiri women has been used as a tool to suppress Kashmiri movement for self-determination. The gross human rights violations committed by Indian occupation forces since July 2016 have resulted in the deaths of more than 150 innocent civilians and injuries to more than 20,000. Indiscriminate use of pellet guns has blinded a thousand completely, including women and young children.

 

The people of IoK have been denied their fundamental human rights including the right to life, health, education, housing, freedom of expression and right to self determination since the last 70 years.  Increasingly, sane voices in India are also accepting that Indian state terrorism is not an acceptable solution.

 

The J&K dispute is a reality which cannot be wished away. We call upon the international community to urge India to stop the bloodshed in IoK immediately and ensure resolution of the J&K dispute in line with the relevant UNSC resolutions.

 

Question

 

Muslims around the world are facing numerous problems, in this regard whether the role of OIC is satisfactory or it needs some improvements. Your comments please! (Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal – Kashmir Post)

 

Answer

 

OIC being the biggest representative organization of the Muslim Ummah, is playing a very important role for safeguarding the interests of the Ummah worldwide. Particularly in the context of Kashmir, I would invite your attention to the declaration of 13^th OIC Summit in Istanbul in April last year, which carried a strong reference on Kashmir. OIC countries not only condemned India for the atrocities committed by the occupation forces but also called for an independent inquiry into the grave human rights violations in IOK. The declaration also rejected Indian propaganda of projecting indigenous movement of self-determination in IOK as an act of terrorism. There is a special OIC Contact Group on Kashmir, which during last year’s OIC Summit in Istanbul also made a strong reference to resolving the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. In its Ministerial Conference last year in Tashkent at the 43^rd Session of ICFM, OIC took an even stronger stance on the issue of Kashmir and urged India to immediately bring to halt its bloodshed and genocide in IoK. In this regard OIC is playing a key role in raising awareness about key issues facing the Muslim Ummah. All member states of OIC are making genuine efforts towards this end. Pakistan believes in the unity and solidarity of Muslim Ummah.

 

All Resolutions of OIC in the context of Kashmir and other important issues are listed on our website. In fact, I request you all to regularly visit MoFA’s website for important reference material on Kashmir and other issues.

 

Question

 

Your Indian Counterpart has been critical of Hafiz Saeed’s arrest and called for more action! Your comment, please! (Shaukat Paracha – Aaj TV)

 

Supplementary Question

 

India has always maligned Pakistan regarding the activities of Hafiz Saeed and has never shared any evidence in any of the episodes it has blamed Pakistan. India has committed terrorism in Pakistan? How do you see all this? (Abid Khursheed – ATV)

 

Answer

 

There is irrefutable evidence of Indian state actors’ involvement in perpetrating terrorist activities and terror financing in Pakistan. Indian state institutions have carried out terrorist attacks on Indian soil and blamed it on others. Confessions of Kulbhushan Yadav and leader of terrorist organization RSS, Swami Aseemanand, revelations made in Maharashtra’s Inspector General of Police, S.M. Mushrif’s book entitled ‘Who Killed Karkare’, British Authors Kathy Scott and Adrian Levy’s narration in their book ‘The Meadows’, and US Secretary of Defence, Chuck Hagel’s statement are testimonies of Indian state institutions’ deep involvement in carrying out terrorist activities in Pakistan. India should take corrective actions for itself rather than commenting on other countries’ affairs.

 

Pakistan had taken all actions against the proscribed elements that were required under the UN sanctions. Pakistan’s action against terrorist elements without discrimination in the larger national interest as well as our sacrifices and losses have been repeatedly acknowledged and appreciated by all the countries. Our commitment to eradicate the scourge of terrorism from its roots is beyond doubt.

 

Question

 

Hussain Haqqani once again proved that he is there to damage Pakistan’s image. How do you see his action of tweeting a 5 years old news report pertaining to Kuwait’s visa restrictions? Ironically, the government that appointed him as Ambassador was at the helm then.  (Fakhar-ru-Rahman – Such TV)

 

Answer

 

It is highly regrettable and deplorable that a person who was honoured to represent Pakistan has been indulging in activities that would hurt Pakistan’s national interests. Unfortunately, he is doing all this at a time when the world is increasingly acknowledging Pakistan’s growing economic potential in the wake of tremendous improvement in the security situation, investor friendly policies and strengthening of democratic institutions. The more Mr. Haqqani does such malicious and unethical acts, more he exposes his character. He has not only lost respect among Pakistanis but also among those who attach importance to values.

 

Question

 

Modi government is always blaming Pakistan and is also trying to sabotage the indigenous movement of Kashmiris through these efforts. Now, India has taken the issue of Hafiz Saeed to the Trump administration and it seems that Pakistan is taking actions against him under some pressure. Your comments please! (Asghar Ali Mubarak – Dail Mail Islamabad)

 

Answer

 

I have partially replied to your question. What Pakistan has done is actually in line with the international obligation as well as the implementation of NAP.

 

Let me also remind you  that India hides behind the bogey of terrorism while it carries out terrorist acts not only on its soil and blames it on others but also uses other countries’ soil to destabilize for terrorist activities especially against Pakistan. India also finances terrorist activities in our country. India tries to portray Kashmiri indigenous movement as an act of terrorism. No country in the world has subscribed to this notion. OIC, in its declaration adopted at the Istanbul Summit, out-rightly rejected India’s false claim of terrorism in Kashmir.

 

India is carrying out all these activities to, primarily; divert international attention from the atrocities it is committing in IoK, which has raised huge concerns among the international community. There have been debates in the Parliaments of many countries; civil society members from the UK, Europe, North America and the Nordic region are all raising their voice, and talking about India’s crimes against humanity in Indian occupied Kashmir. Many human rights organizations are carrying out activities to sensitize and create awareness amongst the world community, urging India to immediately halt bloodshed in IoK and early resolution of the Kashmir dispute

 

Question

 

According to the US declassified Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) documents Indian PM Indira Gandhi planned attacking Azad Kashmir region, after India’s subversive role in the events of 1971 in East Pakistan. CIA documents also revealed that Indian Air Force (IAF) had also planned to attack Pakistan’s nuclear facilities in 1984, to destroy Pakistan’s strategic assets and breach territorial integrity. As a sovereign country, Pakistan should raise the issue with the UN. Your comments!(Tariq Mahmood – SAMAA TV)

 

Answer

 

Indian subversive activities to destabilize Pakistan since inception are an undeniable fact. Successive governments in India have maintained a hostile policy towards Pakistan and the main reason has been the Kashmir dispute. It remains Indian Endeavour to divert international attention from J&K dispute and the grave human rights violations that India has been constantly committing in IOK. India constantly violates UNSC resolutions on Kashmir and avoids holding a free, fair and impartial plebiscite under the auspices of the UN for the realization of the right of self determination of the people of IoK.  Resolution of the J&K dispute is essential for peace and stability in South Asia.

 

The issue of Indian activities to destabilize Pakistan has been raised with the UN as well as the major powers on appropriate occasions. We will continue to raise all such issues with international community that may warrant action.

 

Question

 

New UN Secretary General declared 2017 as the ‘year of peace’ with special attention on conflict resolution. Is Kashmir dispute also on his agenda? (Essa Naqvi – Dunya News)

 

Answer

 

Our Representative over there has briefed the United Nation Secretary General on the situation and the atrocities committed by Indian forces in IoK. The Jammu and Kashmir dispute is one of the oldest unresolved items on the agenda of the UN Security Council, awaiting implementation of UN Security Council resolutions.  UN has an obligation to resolve the Kashmir dispute. We hope to see vigorous efforts by the UN and other members of the international community for the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions in the larger interest of peace and stability of the region and beyond.

 

Question

 

Our Minister said that Houbara Hunting is part of our foreign policy. I just want to know how many licenses have been issued for Habara hunting.

 

Secondly, any further information on the arrest of 16 people yesterday that were part of the entourage of the Emir-e-Qatar and they violated a FC check post. (Abdullah Farooqi – BBC Urdu)

 

Answer

 

I don’t have the details on both the questions.  As to second question, you may like to check with the Ministry of Interior.

 

Question

 

My question is in the context of upcoming ECO Summit. As you know, Mr. Donald Trump has put an immigration ban on seven Muslim countries, but Saudi Arabia has supported Mr. Trump’s decision. Do you think that the agenda of ECO Summit will be marred with conflicting and contradictory interests of the Muslim countries? (Hamid Raza Kazmi – Asas Group of Publications)

 

Answer

 

I am not aware of the agenda of ECO Summit at the moment.

 

Question

 

After US President Donald Trump ordered no-visa policy for seven Muslim countries, a White House official hinted that the ban could be extended to other countries including Pakistan. Your comment please!   (Ali Husnain – Business Recorder)

 

Supplementary Question

 

What is Pakistan’s official stance on Mr. Trump’s ban on seven countries, and what are Pakistan’s apprehensions in case it is also included in the list of banned countries? (Ali Husnain – Business Recorder)

 

Can you please explain if US has given any reassurance to Pakistan that its name will not be included in the list of banned countries? (Anwer Abbas – Waqt News)

 

Answer

 

Pakistan and the US have longstanding and cooperative relations in diverse fields and we look forward to further strengthen these ties. It is every country’s sovereign right to decide its immigration policy. However, such decisions are not without humanitarian and political dimensions that need to be looked at and considered in going forward. Countries would be well advised to adopt policies that are not susceptible to be exploited as propaganda tools by entities wishing to see cracks in the coalition against extremism and terrorism along religious lines.

 

Question

 

RSS has remained involved in the genocide of Kashmiris in IOK, terrorist attacks in India and the terrorizing of religious minorities in India. CIA has also reflected that RSS is a militant, anti-Muslim cultural organization, dedicated to the revival of Hindu way of life.  Your comments please!  (Amjad Ali – PTV News)

 

Answer

 

I have on many occasions commented on the issue of involvement of RSS in terrorism and genocide of Kashmiris. There are historical accounts of RSS involvement in ethnic cleansing in IOK. You may recall numerous incidents of terrorizing of religious minorities by the Hindu extremist and terrorists since 2014 and earlier. I have stated many times earlier about the terrorist activities carried out by Hindu terrorist organization RSS.

 

Question

 

Yesterday, India, in its annual budget, has once again increased its defence spending phenomenally which will most likely be used in the acquisition of more weapons, leading to an arms race in South Asia. What is Pakistan’s stance on this issue?  (Naveed Akbar – Dunya Newspaper)

 

 

Answer

 

Maintenance of peace and stability in South Asia is the cornerstone of Pakistan’s policy. We are opposed to nuclear or conventional arms race in the region. Pakistan’s nuclear capability is solely for self-defense and we are committed to credible minimum deterrence.
India’s massive arms-buying spree and the consequent conventional asymmetry continue to be a threat to regional peace and stability. Pakistan does not want to indulge in any arms race and remains committed to pursuing arms control and restraint measures. We believe that the region’s scarce resources should be devoted to the socioeconomic uplift of its people.

 

Question

 

Recently, a Pakistani soldier was killed on Pak-Afghan border by insurgents entering Pakistan from Afghanistan. What efforts are you undertaking to beef up border security on the Pak-Afghan border?   (Saad Umar – Roze News)

 

Answer

 

Pakistan’s policy on Afghanistan is principled and very clear. We want peace and stability in Afghanistan, which is very important for peace and stability in Pakistan as well as the region. Pakistan has taken measures to check terrorists’ crossing over from Afghanistan. We are all aware that the terrorist elements enter Pakistan from Afghanistan through the porous border and we are also aware of those behind those terrorist elements, which we previously also highlighted. Pakistan has taken stringent measures to control this movement. We have always insisted on effective border management and have instituted border control mechanisms to this effect. Cooperation from Afghanistan is in mutual interest. All of my previous replies in this regard are already available on the website for further reference.

 

Question

 

Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan, Omer Zakhilwal said that Afghan government is open to unconditional peace negotiations with Taliban. Will these talks be held through Pakistan, as we have heard through media reports that Taliban are opening its office in Islamabad soon?  (Rabia Pir – VOA/Deewa Radio)

 

Answer

 

On the second part of your question, I would not comment on media reports.

 

To the first part, Pakistan has always been steadfast in its pursuit for strengthening relations with Afghanistan. Our restraint and patience even in the face of negative statements that emanated from Afghanistan is a manifestation of our policy. We believe peace in Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan and the region. In fact, no other country in the world has suffered more than Pakistan because of instability in Afghanistan. We also believe that there is no military solution to the Afghan conflict and serious efforts should continue for a politically negotiated settlement. In this regard, we support intra-Afghan process of talks between Afghan Government and the warring factions under an Afghan-owned Afghan-led process. Pakistan has been making serious efforts for bringing Taliban to the table for talks with the Afghan government.

*****

 

 

 

 

Pak-Iran Davis Cup Tai ‘gateway to international sports in Pakistan’ By.Asghar Ali Mubarak

Posted on February 1, 2017

Pak-Iran Davis Cup Tai ‘gateway to international sports in Pakistan’

 

By.Asghar Ali Mubarak

ISLAMABAD- The Pakistan top seed tennis players termed “Davis Cup” a gateway to international sports activity in Pakistan. Pakistan will host “Davis Cup” ties after 12 years on 3rd February 2017 at Sports Complex Islamabad, where country’s top tennis players Aisam Ul Haq, Aqeel Khan, Abid Ali Akbar and Abid Mustaq will compete with Iranian players. Addressing the press conference at Serena hotel Islamabad regarding Davis Cup, Malik Rashid non-playing team captain along with Aisam Ul Haq, Aqeel Khan, Abid Ali Akbar and Abid Mustaq termed Pakistan a safe country for international sports. Pakistan top player Aisam Ul Haq said that the event will not only uplift tennis but also uplift all other sports in the country. “I am very much excited playing in front of home crowd in home court”, Aisam Ul Haq expressed his feelings.
Aisam ul Haq said he is fully prepared to defeat Iranian rivals, “we have never lost a single tier since 1998”, he said.Aqeel Khan said that hard court will favour us, as Iranians are trained in clay and grass courts. He said we have defeated much better players then Iranian, we are fully prepared to beat them. Malik Rashid non-playing team captain said that in past Pakistan was not given an opportunity to host international event which has affected the player’s performance.
Iranian contingent includes Seifollah Behzadpour coach, Mostafa Ataei trainer, Mehrshad Poursaeed Esfahani physician, Saeed Ahmadvand team captain, players including Anoosha Shahgholi, Shahin Khaledan, Alborz Akhavan, Amir Hossein Badi, Nadaf Sachani Hamidreza. Mean while Iran’s Davis Cup team captain Saeid Ahmedvand is wary of the threat Pakistan will pose when the two sides face off in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group II fixture at the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad on Friday. Ahmedvand feels that it is going to be a difficult task for his team to defeat Pakistan as the hosts are fielding a strong team. He was also quick to praise the security arrangements made for the event.“As far as the hospitality and the hotels are concerned, everything is perfect,” Ahmedvand told media. “So far we are very happy to be here and we will look for the best results in the tie against Pakistan. We know they have a really good side; all the players will be tough to beat.”Iran is fielding Anoosha Shahgholi, Shahin Khaledan, Hamid Reza Nadaf and Amir Hossein Badi in the squad and all eyes will be on Khaledan, who according to Ahmedvand, is Iran’s best player.“We are depending on Shahin [Khaledan], he is our best player,” said Ahmedvand. “He joined the team during the last phase of our camp because he lives in Spain, but he has performed strongly for our side in the previous ties.”Iran won their Group II play-off against Syria 2-1 to get promoted to Group II where Shahgholi won the singles match, but Khaledan was again the key player as he helped his side win singles rubbers in three other ties that got the team to Group II. Meanwhile, Ahmedvand added that he knows Pakistani players Aqeel Khan and Aisamul Haq Qureshi well and he is hoping that Iran’s step to come to Pakistan will encourage other countries to visit the country in the future as well. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) authorized Pakistan to hold a tie at home after 12 years and previously none of the foreign teams would come to Pakistan due to security concerns.“I know these players; Aqeel even came to Iran and we’ve met him there and Aisam is a great player too; it is not going to be easy for us,” said the non-playing captain. “I can only say that I hope Pakistan can play more ties at home and other countries can see that we are here and we are happy to be here.”Pakistan will have Muhammad Abid Mushtaq and Abid Ali Akbar in the squad in addition to Aqeel and Aisam.