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Pixwox Alternatives: Finding the Perfect Platform for Your Needs

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Pixwox Alternatives

   Introduction

Welcome to our exploration of Pixwox alternatives! In this section, we’ll provide you with a brief overview of Pixwox and discuss the reasons why you might be considering alternative platforms for your photo sharing needs.

1.1 A Brief Overview of Pixwox

Pixwox Alternatives

Pixwox

Pixwox, like many photo-sharing platforms, has carved a niche for itself in the digital landscape. Known for its user-friendly interface and a plethora of features, Pixwox Alternatives has been a go-to choice for individuals looking to showcase their visual stories and connect with like-minded users.

Pixwox offers a range of tools for photo editing, sharing, and organizing, creating a vibrant space for a diverse community of photographers and enthusiasts. However, as with any platform, Pixwox comes with its own set of strengths and limitations.

1.2 The Need for Exploring Alternatives

While Pixwox has its merits, the digital world is ever-evolving, and so are our needs. There are various reasons why you might be contemplating alternatives to Pixwox:

  1. Evolving Features: Technology advances, and newer platforms may offer features that Pixwox might lack. Exploring alternatives ensures you stay updated with the latest innovations in photo sharing.
  2. Specialized Needs: Your photo sharing needs may have become more specialized over time. Perhaps you now require features not currently offered by Pixwox, prompting the search for a platform better suited to your evolving requirements.
  3. Community Dynamics: The dynamics of online communities can shift. If you find that the community on Pixwox no longer aligns with your interests or preferences, exploring alternatives allows you to find a community that resonates with you.
  4. Platform Changes: Sometimes, changes in the platform itself can impact user experience. Whether it’s a shift in policies, interface alterations, or other updates, these changes may drive users to seek alternatives.

II. Understanding Your Photo Sharing Needs

When it comes to choosing the right platform for sharing your photos, it’s crucial to start by understanding your specific needs and preferences. This section will guide you through the process of defining your purpose and identifying the features that matter most to you.

Defining Your Purpose:

Before exploring Pixwox alternatives, take a moment to reflect on why you share photos online. Are you a professional photographer showcasing your portfolio, a hobbyist sharing moments with friends and family, or someone seeking a platform for collaborative projects? Clarifying your purpose will help you narrow down the features that align with your goals.

Personal Use:

If your primary goal is to share memories with friends and family, consider platforms that offer user-friendly interfaces, easy sharing options, and privacy settings to control who sees your content.

Professional Use:

For photographers or content creators looking to showcase their work, features like high-resolution image support, portfolio customization, and copyright protection may be essential.

Collaborative Projects:

If you’re involved in collaborative projects, explore platforms that support group sharing, easy collaboration tools, and seamless communication among contributors.

Features That Matter to You: Once you’ve defined your purpose, it’s time to identify the specific features that matter most to you. Different photo-sharing platforms offer varying functionalities, so it’s essential to prioritize based on your needs.

User Interface: Consider the platform’s ease of use. Does it have an intuitive interface that allows you to navigate effortlessly? Look for features like drag-and-drop uploading and straightforward album creation.

Privacy Settings: Evaluate the level of control you have over your content’s visibility. Some platforms offer granular privacy settings, allowing you to share photos publicly, with specific individuals, or keep them entirely private.

Storage Capacity: Depending on the volume and quality of your photos, assess the platform’s storage capacity. Some platforms offer free storage up to a certain limit, while others provide scalable options for larger storage needs.

Community Engagement: If community interaction is important to you, look for platforms that facilitate easy commenting, liking, and sharing within the community. Robust community features can enhance your overall experience.

III. Criteria for Evaluating Alternatives

When searching for the perfect photo-sharing platform to replace Pixwox Alternatives, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure the new platform aligns with your needs and preferences. Here are four key criteria to evaluate alternatives:

1. User Interface and Experience:

Evaluate the platform’s user interface (UI) for its simplicity, intuitiveness, and overall aesthetic appeal.

Consider the ease of navigation and accessibility of essential features.

Look for a platform that provides a seamless and enjoyable user experience, enhancing your overall satisfaction.

2. Privacy and Security Features:

Prioritize platforms that prioritize user privacy and data security.

Check for robust privacy settings that allow you to control who sees your photos and personal information.

Look into the platform’s security measures, such as encryption protocols and secure login procedures, to ensure the safety of your data.

3. Customization Options:

Assess the level of customization the platform offers to tailor your photo-sharing experience.

Look for features that allow you to personalize your profile, organize albums, and control the visibility of your content.

Consider whether the platform allows you to express your unique style and preferences through customizable themes or layouts.

4. Community Engagement:

Explore the platform’s community features, such as comments, likes, and the ability to connect with other users.

Consider the size and activity level of the user community. A thriving community often enhances the overall experience.

Look for platforms that facilitate meaningful interactions, fostering a sense of belonging and shared interests among users.

IV. Exploring Pixwox Alternatives

In our quest to find the perfect platform for your photo sharing needs, let’s dive into a detailed exploration of Pixwox alternatives. We’ll take a closer look at five noteworthy options, each offering its own unique set of features and user experiences.

Alternative 1

Overview

Alternative 1 presents itself as a robust photo-sharing platform with a user-friendly interface. It caters to a diverse range of users, from casual photographers to enthusiasts seeking advanced features.

Key Features

Intuitive User Interface: An easy-to-navigate design that ensures a seamless experience for users of all levels.

Advanced Editing Tools: Robust editing features to enhance your photos directly on the platform.

Privacy Controls: Customizable privacy settings, allowing you to manage who sees your shared content.

User Reviews

Users applaud Alternative 1 for its simplicity and feature-rich environment. Some note its excellent editing tools, while others appreciate the platform’s commitment to user privacy.

Alternative 2

Overview

Alternative 2 distinguishes itself with a focus on community engagement and collaboration. It offers a vibrant space for users to connect over shared interests, making it more than just a photo-sharing platform.

Key Features

Community Forums: Dedicated spaces for discussions, tips, and collaboration among users.

Group Albums: The ability to create and contribute to group albums, fostering a sense of community.

Trending Hashtags: A dynamic system that highlights popular trends and helps your content reach a wider audience.

User Reviews

Users praise Alternative 2 for its social aspect, emphasizing the sense of belonging it provides. The community forums and collaborative features receive positive feedback for encouraging interaction among users.

Alternative 3

Overview

Alternative 3 positions itself as a feature-rich platform catering to both amateur and professional photographers. It boasts advanced tools for photo editing and organization.

Key Features

Professional Editing Suite: A suite of advanced editing tools for users with a keen eye for detail.

Portfolio Management: Tools to curate and showcase your best work, making it an ideal choice for photographers building a portfolio.

Cloud Storage Integration: Seamless integration with popular cloud storage services for easy access to your photos.

User Reviews

Users who lean towards Alternative 3 appreciate its professional-grade editing tools and portfolio management features. The cloud integration adds to the convenience, making it a top choice for those seeking a versatile platform.

Alternative 4

Overview

Alternative 4 distinguishes itself by offering a visually stunning and immersive experience. It’s designed to showcase your photos in the best possible light, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize aesthetics.

Key Features

Visual Storytelling Templates: Pre-designed templates to create visually striking photo stories.

High-Resolution Display: Emphasis on displaying photos in high resolution for an immersive viewing experience.

Customizable Galleries: Options to personalize your photo galleries to match your style.

User Reviews

Users who opt for Alternative 4 appreciate its emphasis on visual storytelling. The templates and high-resolution display receive praise for elevating the overall viewing experience, making it a favorite among those with a keen eye for aesthetics.

Alternative 5

Overview

Alternative 5 positions itself as a user-centric platform, focusing on customization and personalization. It’s designed to adapt to your preferences, offering a tailored experience.

Key Features

Customizable Layouts: Options to personalize the platform’s layout to suit your aesthetic preferences.

Personalized Recommendations: An intelligent algorithm that suggests content based on your preferences and engagement.

Integrated Print Services: Seamless integration with printing services for turning your digital memories into tangible keepsakes.

V. Comparative Analysis

In this section, we’ll take a close look at how Pixwox alternatives stack up against each other, conducting a side-by-side feature comparison. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each alternative, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which platform aligns best with your photo-sharing needs.

1. Alternative 1: [Alternative Name]

User Interface: [Describe the user interface, e.g., intuitive, modern design]

Key Features: [List distinctive features, e.g., advanced photo editing tools, AI-driven organization]

User Reviews: [Summarize user sentiments, positive and negative]

2. Alternative 2: [Alternative Name]

User Interface: [Describe the user interface, e.g., minimalist, user-friendly]

Key Features: [List distinctive features, e.g., seamless integration with social media, robust privacy settings]

User Reviews: [Summarize user sentiments, positive and negative]

3. Alternative 3: [Alternative Name]

User Interface: [Describe the user interface, e.g., customizable, easy navigation]

Key Features: [List distinctive features, e.g., collaborative album creation, geotagging]

User Reviews: [Summarize user sentiments, positive and negative]

4. Alternative 4: [Alternative Name]

User Interface: [Describe the user interface, e.g., visually appealing, responsive]

Key Features: [List distinctive features, e.g., unlimited storage, real-time photo synchronization]

User Reviews: [Summarize user sentiments, positive and negative]

5. Alternative 5: [Alternative Name]

User Interface: [Describe the user interface, e.g., customizable, modern layout]

Key Features: [List distinctive features, e.g., advanced search capabilities, storytelling features]

User Reviews: [Summarize user sentiments, positive and negative]

Strengths and Weaknesses Analysis:

Common Strengths: [Identify features that are strengths across alternatives, e.g., user-friendly interfaces]

Unique Strengths: [Highlight distinctive strengths of each alternative, e.g., Alternative 1 excels in photo editing, while Alternative 2 stands out for social integration]

Common Weaknesses: [Identify shared weaknesses, e.g., limited integration with third-party apps]

Unique Weaknesses: [Highlight specific weaknesses of each alternative, e.g., Alternative 3 has limited collaboration features, while Alternative 4 may lack advanced editing tools]

VI. Choosing the Right Platform for You

When it comes to selecting the perfect photo-sharing platform, it’s crucial to align the features offered by each alternative with your individual needs. Let’s break down the process to make this decision-making journey as smooth as possible.

Aligning Features with Your Needs:

Assess Your Priorities:

Before diving into the features of each platform, take a moment to identify your priorities. Are you looking for a user-friendly interface, robust privacy settings, or a vibrant community? Knowing your priorities will guide your decision-making process.

Evaluate Key Features:

Compare the features of each alternative against your identified priorities. Look for specific functionalities such as ease of photo sharing, editing tools, storage capacity, and any unique features that stand out. A platform that aligns closely with your needs is more likely to enhance your overall experience.

Consider User Reviews:

User reviews can provide valuable insights into how well a platform meets user expectations. Pay attention to feedback related to the features you find most important. This real-world feedback can be instrumental in gauging the practicality of each platform for your specific requirements.

Considering Long-Term Viability:

Platform Stability:

Evaluate the stability and reputation of each platform. A well-established platform with a history of consistent service is more likely to provide long-term reliability. Check for any signs of financial stability, as this can be indicative of a platform’s ability to endure over time.

Future Development:

Look into the platform’s roadmap and plans for future development. A platform that actively updates its features and adapts to technological advancements is more likely to stay relevant in the long run. Consider whether the platform has a history of adapting to changing user needs.

Migration Options:

Investigate the ease of migrating your data from Pixwox to the alternative platforms. A smooth migration process is essential to ensure that your valuable photos and data transfer seamlessly, allowing you to make the transition without unnecessary complications.

Community Support:

Consider the strength and engagement of the user community. A platform with an active and supportive community is more likely to thrive over the long term. Community support can also be a valuable resource for addressing issues and staying informed about platform updates.

VII. Migration Tips and Considerations

If you’ve decided to make the leap from Pixwox to a new platform, ensuring a smooth transition is crucial. Here are some practical tips and considerations to guide you through the process:

1. Understanding Your Data:

Before initiating the migration, take stock of your data on Pixwox. Identify the photos, albums, and any associated metadata you want to transfer. This step helps you organize and streamline the migration process.

2. Backup Your Pixwox Data:

Prioritize the safety of your memories by creating a backup of your Pixwox data. Many platforms provide export options or allow you to download your content in a compressed format. This step acts as a safety net in case anything goes amiss during the migration.

3. Research Data Import Features:

Explore the data import features of the alternative platform you’ve chosen. Look for detailed guidelines or tools provided by the new service to facilitate a seamless transfer. Commonly, platforms offer step-by-step instructions for importing data from Pixwox.

4. Check for Metadata Compatibility:

Different platforms may use varying metadata formats. Ensure that the new platform supports the metadata associated with your photos on Pixwox. This includes details like captions, tags, and dates.

5. Preserve Album Structure:

If you’ve organized your photos into albums on Pixwox, aim to preserve this structure during the migration. Confirm that the new platform maintains or allows you to recreate your album organization.

6. Inform Your Network:

If Pixwox was a part of your social network, inform your followers and friends about your move. Share the new platform details, and if possible, provide a timeline for the transition. This keeps your network in the loop and ensures they can continue to engage with your content.

7. Double-Check Privacy Settings:

Review the privacy settings on your new platform. Ensure that the privacy levels you desire align with those you had on Pixwox. This step is crucial to maintaining control over who can access your photos and albums.

8. Test the Waters:

Before fully committing to the new platform, consider uploading a small batch of photos as a test. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the features, assess the quality of data transfer, and make any necessary adjustments before migrating your entire collection.

9. Seek Support from the New Platform:

Reach out to customer support on the new platform if you encounter any challenges. Most platforms have dedicated support teams ready to assist with migration-related queries and ensure a positive user experience.

10. Patience is Key:

Migration processes can take time. Be patient and allow the new platform the necessary time to process and organize your data. Rushing through the process may lead to oversights and data discrepancies.

IX. Conclusion

In the realm of photo-sharing platforms, the decision to explore alternatives to Pixwox is a significant one. This journey has led us through an exploration of various platforms, understanding your unique needs, and navigating the intricacies of migration. As we conclude, let’s reflect on the key takeaways

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German software giant SAP steps up efforts to cut down

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KARACHI: German software giant German software, SAP, is introducing green solutions, including green ledgers, to cut down carbon footprint in the Middle East and Pakistan region to ensure and foster sustainability, the SAP regional chief said on Thursday.

Based in Walldorf, SAP develops enterprise software to manage business operations and customer relations. It ranks among one of the world’s leading enterprise resource planning (ERP) software vendors and publicly traded software companies by revenue.

The German firm collaborates with organizations, governments, and non-government organizations (NGOs) on a global scale to drive sustainability initiatives aimed at raising awareness, sharing best practices, and developing innovative solutions to tackle environmental challenges.

German software

German software

“SAP is doing its due role especially into the sustainability sector. When we talk about the Middle East region and the Pakistan region, we are coming up with clear green solutions, we are coming up with green ledgers, and climate-friendly solutions,” Saquib Ahmad, the SAP managing-director for Pakistan, Iraq and Afghanistan, told Arab News, on the sidelines of a media roundtable in Karachi.

Ahmad terming climate change was one of the major issues and his organization with global footprint was coming up with solutions that could help and improve lives of the people in Pakistan.

“I think it’s very important to understand that we are working with the Government of Pakistan, we are working with the private sector and trying to make and ensure that such solutions are getting implemented which can help the current climate target that we are looking at currently,” he added.

About the ongoing UN climate conference, COP28, in Dubai, the SAP regional chief said it was a very important factor that the conference was taking place in the region and making it visible “because climate change is hitting this region in a very, very important way.”

“I think we can already see the impacts that has floods, that has bang in Pakistan. We are also seeing overall forest fires. We are talking about overall quality index of the air and all this is impacting Pakistan,” Ahmad said, adding the top SAP leadership was also attending the ongoing COP28.

“We are talking about how this COP28 can help the Pakistan government and the people of Pakistan in better maintaining climate change that is hitting our lives on a day-to-day basis.”

Pakistan last year witnessed one of the deadliest monsoon floods, blamed on climate change, which killed more than 1,700 people, affected nearly 33 million and caused over $30 million losses. In recent years, the South Asian country has also experienced frequent forest fires in its northwestern and southwestern regions.

SAP works with the concept of ‘intelligent enterprise,’ wherein advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and analytics are harnessed to create more sustainable business models, according to the official.

These tools enable the German software giant to improve resource efficiency, reduce energy consumption and make informed decisions that contribute to sustainability.

Ahmad said technology enabled organizations to address gaps in physical infrastructure.

“It connects globally and ensures timely decisions to be implemented across the landscape,” he said. “Pakistan, being a developing economy, stands to gain strong competitiveness in the region through technological prowess, fostering connections and collaboration for positive environmental impact.”

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s election regulator will issue a schedule for the upcoming national elections “in few days,” its top official said on Thursday, as the South Asian country gears up for the February 8 polls.

Elections were originally expected to take place in November after Pakistan’s national and two provincial assemblies were dissolved in August before reaching the end of their tenure. However, Pakistan’s election regulator decided to redraw hundreds of national and provincial constituencies based on a digital census carried out in April before arranging the electoral contest.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) later scheduled the voting process for the last week of January, before announcing Feb. 8 as the final date after consultations with the country’s President Dr. Arif Alvi on the Supreme Court’s instructions.

In his message on Voters Day, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja once again assured the masses that February 8 would be the polling day, dispelling speculation about further delay in the conduct of national elections.

“Election schedule will be issued in few days,” Raja said in a statement. “Polling [for the general election] will be held on February 8, 2024.”

As Pakistan gears up for the general elections, many analysts expect the polls to lead to the South Asian country to some stability after more than a year of political turmoil, following the ouster of ex-prime minister Imran Khan in a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.

The CEC’s statement came a day after Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said the federal cabinet did not have any “second thoughts” about holding the polls on February 8.

“The thing is, problems of security and the weather will always remain,” Solangi said in an interview. “But in the federal cabinet, there is no doubt, neither is there any worry nor any second thoughts that we would not hold elections on Feb. 8.”

Pakistan has seen a surge in militant attacks in its western regions bordering Afghanistan ever since a fragile truce between Islamabad and the Pakistani Taliban broke down in November 2022.

The Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan (JUI-F), a prominent religious party, last month urged the ECP to delay polls till the security situation in the country improved.

Solangi said Pakistan had held elections in the past despite the threat of militancy, when the security situation was far worse.

“Maybe our memories are a bit weak,” he said. “What was the security situation in 2008 and 2013? If we compare it [to now] then it is nothing.

This week, the ECP also issued a directive for satellite television channels, warning them against airing speculative news about a delay in elections.

  • Reports suggested Sirajuddin Haqqani was issued Pakistani passport which he used to travel abroad, particularly to Qatar
  • Foreign office spokesperson acknowledges Pakistan has received ‘updated list’ of Afghans who are to be repatriated to US

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s foreign office on Thursday exercised caution in its response to media reports about Afghanistan interim interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani’s use of the Pakistani passport for international travel in the past.

Haqqani was issued a Pakistani passport for five years which he used to travel abroad, particularly to Qatar for negotiations with the United States (US) for the Doha Agreement that resulted in the US exit from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s The News and Jang newspapers reported.

The reports, citing interior ministry officials, said these passports were issued from different cities of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh provinces, and Pakistani authorities had arrested two officials in connection with issuance of passport to Haqqani, one of whom had retired from service.

Asked about these reports, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, a spokesperson for the Pakistani foreign office, said she did not have “facts” to respond to the query.

“I have just seen the report in the Jang. I do not have the facts to respond to your question,” she said at a weekly press briefing. “Maybe I will be able to comment on some other occasion when I have more information.”

The name of Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan’s acting interior minister and the Taliban’s second-in-command, started echoing around the world in 2008 as a young commander of the most-feared Haqqani Network that was executing a series of deadly attacks on US-allied forces in Afghanistan.

The powerful Taliban commander made the headlines in March 2022 after he revealed his face in a rare public appearance in Kabul. He was attending the graduation ceremony of the first batch of police recruits at the National Defense Police Academy in Kabul since the Taliban took over the reins of Afghanistan in August 2021.

The reports about his travel on Pakistani passport come at a time of a series of visits to Pakistan by senior US officials, including Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes, Special Representative on Afghanistan Thomas West, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Horst.

These visits are part of ongoing dialogue with the US on a range of issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, according to the Pakistani foreign office.

The US has in the past accused Pakistan of backing the Afghan Taliban and not supporting Washington’s decades-long military campaign in Afghanistan the way the US wanted it to.

The allegations, denied by Islamabad, particularly soured ties between the two countries in 2021, following the hasty US exit from Afghanistan.

’Updated list’ of Afghan nationals to be repatriated to US

During the briefing, the foreign office spokesperson said Pakistan had received an “updated list” of Afghan nationals from the US and Islamabad was in touch with the US embassy for their repatriation to America.

“The meetings which are taking place today and have taken place in recent days are related to, yes, Afghanistan and Afghanistan related matters. There are some other bilateral aspects which may come up under discussion in coming days,” she said.

“With respect to the list that you have referred to, we have received an updated list from the US side and we are in contact with the American Embassy in developing the mechanics for the early repatriation of individuals on those lists to the United States.”

Pakistan has previously chosen to ignore individual calls from Western nations for the repatriation of Afghan nationals. This is the first time Islamabad has acknowledged having received a list of Afghans from a foreign country.

“We have already said that it is important that the process of verification and issuance of visas should be expedited and we hope that this process will be completed at the earliest,” Baloch said.

The development comes months after Islamabad asked all undocumented foreigners, mostly Afghans, to leave the country by Nov. 1, accusing that some of these Afghans had been involved in militant attacks and other offenses in Pakistan. Since the expiry of Nov. 1 deadline, Pakistan has launched a crackdown on all illegal foreigners and has been deporting them to their home countries.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have since left the South Asian country as Islamabad brushed aside calls from the United Nations (UN), Western embassies and rights groups to halt the deportations.

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Pakistan exercises caution over reports of Afghan minister using its passport for international travel

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Repo Foreign office spokesperson acknowledges Pakistan exercises Pakistan has received ‘updated list’ of Afghans who are to be repatriated to US

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s foreign Pakistan exercises office on Thursday exercised caution in its response to media reports about Afghanistan interim interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani’s use of the Pakistani passport for international travel in the past.

Haqqani was issued a Pakistani passport for five years which he used to travel abroad, particularly to Qatar for negotiations with the United States (US) for the Doha Agreement that resulted in the US exit from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s The News and Jang newspapers reported.

The reports, citing interior ministry officials, said these passports were issued from different cities of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh provinces, and Pakistani authorities had arrested two officials in connection with issuance of passport to Haqqani, one of whom had retired from service.

Asked about these reports, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, a spokesperson for the Pakistani foreign office, said she did not have “facts” to respond to the query.

“I have just seen the report in the Jang. I do not have the facts to respond to your question,” she said at a weekly press briefing. “Maybe I will be able to comment on some other occasion when I have more information.”

The name of Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan’s acting interior minister and the Taliban’s second-in-command, started echoing around the world in 2008 as a young commander of the most-feared Haqqani Network that was executing a series of deadly attacks on US-allied forces in Afghanistan.

The powerful Taliban commander made the headlines in March 2022 after he revealed his face in a rare public appearance in Kabul. He was attending the graduation ceremony of the first batch of police recruits at the National Defense Police Academy in Kabul since the Taliban took over the reins of Afghanistan in August 2021.

The reports about his travel on Pakistani passport come at a time of a series of visits to Pakistan by senior US officials, including Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes, Special Representative on Afghanistan Thomas West, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Horst.

These visits are part of ongoing dialogue with the US on a range of issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, according to the Pakistani foreign office.

The US has in the past accused Pakistan of backing the Afghan Taliban and not supporting Washington’s decades-long military campaign in Afghanistan the way the US wanted it to.

The allegations, denied by Islamabad, particularly soured ties between the two countries in 2021, following the hasty US exit from Afghanistan.

’Updated list’ of Afghan nationals to be repatriated to US

During the briefing, the foreign office spokesperson said Pakistan had received an “updated list” of Afghan nationals from the US and Islamabad was in touch with the US embassy for their repatriation to America.

“The meetings which are taking place today and have taken place in recent days are related to, yes, Afghanistan and Afghanistan related matters. There are some other bilateral aspects which may come up under discussion in coming days,” she said.

“With respect to the list that you have referred to, we have received an updated list from the US side and we are in contact with the American Embassy in developing the mechanics for the early repatriation of individuals on those lists to the United States.”

Pakistan has previously chosen to ignore individual calls from Western nations for the repatriation of Afghan nationals. This is the first time Islamabad has acknowledged having received a list of Afghans from a foreign country.

“We have already said that it is important that the process of verification and issuance of visas should be expedited and we hope that this process will be completed at the earliest,” Baloch said.

The development comes months after Islamabad asked all undocumented foreigners, mostly Afghans, to leave the country by Nov. 1, accusing that some of these Afghans had been involved in militant attacks and other offenses in Pakistan. Since the expiry of Nov. 1 deadline, Pakistan has launched a crackdown on all illegal foreigners and has been deporting them to their home countries.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have since left the South Asian country as Islamabad brushed aside calls from the United Nations (UN), Western embassies and rights groups to halt the deportations.

Pakistan regulator to issue schedule for upcoming national elections ‘in few days’

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s election regulator will issue a schedule for the upcoming national elections “in few days,” its top official said on Thursday, as the South Asian country gears up for the February 8 polls.

Elections were originally expected to take place in November after Pakistan’s national and two provincial assemblies were dissolved in August before reaching the end of their tenure. However, Pakistan’s election regulator decided to redraw hundreds of national and provincial constituencies based on a digital census carried out in April before arranging the electoral contest.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) later scheduled the voting process for the last week of January, before announcing Feb. 8 as the final date after consultations with the country’s President Dr. Arif Alvi on the Supreme Court’s instructions.

In his message on Voters Day, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja once again assured the masses that February 8 would be the polling day, dispelling speculation about further delay in the conduct of national elections.

“Election schedule will be issued in few days,” Raja said in a statement. “Polling [for the general election] will be held on February 8, 2024.”

As Pakistan gears up for the general elections, many analysts expect the polls to lead to the South Asian country to some stability after more than a year of political turmoil, following the ouster of ex-prime minister Imran Khan in a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.

The CEC’s statement came a day after Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said the federal cabinet did not have any “second thoughts” about holding the polls on February 8.

“The thing is, problems of security and the weather will always remain,” Solangi said in an interview. “But in the federal cabinet, there is no doubt, neither is there any worry nor any second thoughts that we would not hold elections on Feb. 8.”

Pakistan has seen a surge in militant attacks in its western regions bordering Afghanistan ever since a fragile truce between Islamabad and the Pakistani Taliban broke down in November 2022.

The Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan (JUI-F), a prominent religious party, last month urged the ECP to delay polls till the security situation in the country improved.

Solangi said Pakistan had held elections in the past despite the threat of militancy, when the security situation was far worse.

“Maybe our memories are a bit weak,” he said. “What was the security situation in 2008 and 2013? If we compare it [to now] then it is nothing.

This week, the ECP also issued a directive for satellite television channels, warning them against airing speculative news about a delay in elections.

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IMF board to meet on Jan. 11 for Pakistan loan program approval

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The IMF last month said it had reached a staff-level agreement with Pakistan on the first review of a $3 billion bailout If approved by its board, the global lender will release IMF board a tranche of $700 million to the cash-strapped South Asian nation

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will meet on Jan. 11 to consider the final approval to hand out to Pakistan the next $700 million tranche of its loan program.

Last month, the IMF said it had reached a staff-level agreement with Pakistan on the first review of a $3 billion bailout, which will unlock $700 million in funding for the country.

The funds to be issued are a second tranche of the bailout, which is subject to an approval from the IMF’s executive board.

“We can confirm that the Board meeting for Pakistan will take place on January 11,” the IMF said in an emailed statement.

Pakistan has been facing an acute balance of payment crisis, with its foreign exchange reserves diminished, along with historically high inflation and an unprecedented currency devaluation.

Bloomberg News first reported on the IMF meeting.

Pakistani-Canadian horror flick ‘In Flames’ wins top award at Red Sea Film Festival

In Flames is Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category

Film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao

ISLAMABAD: “In Flames,” Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category, has won the Golden Yusr for Best Feature Film at the 3rd edition of the Red Sea Film Festival, taking place in Jeddah from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9.

The gathering, which attracted Hollywood stars like Will Smith, Johnny Depp, Chris Hemsworth and Sharon Stone, on Thursday evening unveiled the winners of its Red Sea competition honors, the Yusr awards, as well as other prizes.

Pakistan-Canadian director and writer Zarrar Kahn said his indie movie was shot for “just $300,000 — the size of a Red Sea Fund production grant.”

“Everyone who gets a grant to go make a movie, because this was made for nothing,” he said.

Last month, In Flames won the International Newcomer Award at the 72nd International Film Festival Mannheim-Heidelberg. Earlier this year in May, the horror-drama became the second Pakistani film in 43 years to make it to Directors’ Fortnight, an event that runs parallel to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In October, the film was independently released at the Atrium Cinemas in Pakistan’s southern Karachi city for a 12-day run which was later extended until November 9. The film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao.

In an interview to Arab News earlier this month, actor Bakhtawar Mazhar described In Flames as a psychological thriller that follows the struggle of a mother (Mazhar) and her daughter (Ramesha Nawal) after the loss of the patriarch of the family. The film has been produced by Anam Abbas.

“Even though this film was shot in Karachi, women around the world were crying [after watching the film] and they were like, we know the struggle this character went through, we know the struggle of Fariha and Mariam,” Nawal told Arab News.

“In Flames” is also Pakistan’s official submission under the Foreign Language Film category for the 96th Academy Awards next year.

‘Prudent decision,’ says Pakistan as Denmark passes law to ban Qur’an burnings

‘Prudent decision,’ says Pakistan as Denmark passes law to ban Qur’an burnings
  • Foreign minister says hopeful other European countries follow suit, pass similar laws
  • Over 500 demonstrations that included Quran burnings registered since July in Denmark

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has said it was a “prudent decision” by Denmark’s parliament to pass a law this week making it illegal to burn the Qur’an in public places.

Denmark and Sweden experienced a series of public protests this year where anti-Islam activists burned or otherwise damaged copies of the Qur’an, triggering demands that the Nordic governments ban the practice. Over 500 demonstrations that included burnings of the Qur’an or flags have been registered since July, according to Denmark’s justice ministry.

“A prudent decision on the part of the Danish Parliament. Hope other European countries follow suit and pass similar legislation,” Jilani said on X on Thursday night, commenting on the new law. “Desecration of holy books of any faith is against the tenets of all religions, even under the guise of freedom of speech.”

Thursday’s vote on the law followed a five hour debate in parliament and 94 members voted in favour, 77 against.

Breaking the new law will be punishable by fines or up to two years in prison.

Denmark has sought to strike a balance between constitutionally protected freedom of speech, including the right to criticize religion, and national security amid fears that Qur’an burnings would trigger attacks by militants. But domestic critics in Sweden and Denmark have argued that any limitations on criticizing religion, including by burning Qur’an, undermine hard-fought liberal freedoms in the region.

Sweden is also considering how to prevent burning of the Qur’an but is looking at whether police should factor in national security when deciding on protest applications rather than a ban.

In Flames is Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category

Film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao

ISLAMABAD: “In Flames,” Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category, has won the Golden Yusr for Best Feature Film at the 3rd edition of the Red Sea Film Festival, taking place in Jeddah from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9.

The gathering, which attracted Hollywood stars like Will Smith, Johnny Depp, Chris Hemsworth and Sharon Stone, on Thursday evening unveiled the winners of its Red Sea competition honors, the Yusr awards, as well as other prizes.

Pakistan-Canadian director and writer Zarrar Kahn said his indie movie was shot for “just $300,000 — the size of a Red Sea Fund production grant.”

“Everyone who gets a grant to go make a movie, because this was made for nothing,” he said.

Last month, In Flames won the International Newcomer Award at the 72nd International Film Festival Mannheim-Heidelberg. Earlier this year in May, the horror-drama became the second Pakistani film in 43 years to make it to Directors’ Fortnight, an event that runs parallel to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In October, the film was independently released at the Atrium Cinemas in Pakistan’s southern Karachi city for a 12-day run which was later extended until November 9. The film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao.

In an interview to Arab News earlier this month, actor Bakhtawar Mazhar described In Flames as a psychological thriller that follows the struggle of a mother (Mazhar) and her daughter (Ramesha Nawal) after the loss of the patriarch of the family. The film has been produced by Anam Abbas.

“Even though this film was shot in Karachi, women around the world were crying [after watching the film] and they were like, we know the struggle this character went through, we know the struggle of Fariha and Mariam,” Nawal told Arab News.

“In Flames” is also Pakistan’s official submission under the Foreign Language Film category for the 96th Academy Awards next year.

In a first, Pakistan unlocks Islamic bond market for retail investors with Ijarah Sukuk launch

In a first, Pakistan unlocks Islamic bond market for retail investors with Ijarah Sukuk launch
  • Sukuk is an Islamic financial certificate that represents ownership in a tangible asset or a pool of assets
  • Pakistan plans to raise Rs90 billion in total from the stock market through three Ijarah Sukuk bond auctions

KARACHI: In a groundbreaking development, the Pakistani government on Friday unlocked the Islamic bond market for retail investors through an auction of the country’s first-ever sovereign Ijarah Sukuk bond at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), aiming to raise Rs30 billion ($105.8 million).

Sukuk is an Islamic financial certificate that represents ownership in a tangible asset or a pool of assets. It is similar to a bond but is structured in a way that complies with Islamic law, which prohibits interest-based transactions.

In connection with the launch of the first Ijarah Sukuk a ‘gong ceremony’ was held at the PSX in Karachi, which was attended by Caretaker Prime minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and Finace Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar.

“The auction gives PSX investors the chance to invest, contributing to a more diverse investor base,” said Shahid Ali Habib, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Karachi-based Arif Habib Limited brokerage house.

“The move also promises a substantial boost to the Islamic capital market in Pakistan.”

The tenure of the Ijarah Sukuk issued by Pakistan Domestic Sukuk Company Limited through the finance ministry is one year that will mature on December 09, 2024. The face value of a Sukuk is Rs5,000 ($17.6), according to a PSX document.

The bidding process for the auction of the Islamic bond will start at around 4pm today, on Friday, for which the process of registration had been completed. Joint financial and Shariah advisers for the issuance of the bond include Meezan Bank Limited, Dubai Islamic Bank (Pakistan) Limited, Bank Islami Pakistan Limited and Bank Alfalah Limited.

The federal government plans to raise an overall Rs90 billion ($315 million) with three Ijarah Sukuk auctions. The second auction is scheduled for January 23, 2024 and the third for February 20, 2024, according to the PSX auction calendar.

Habib said the issuance will help in developing Islamic capital market in the country and will encourage more investors to look for interest free avenues.

Experts also believe the auction has ended the monopoly of big banks who would earlier take part in the auctions.

“The Sukuk would now be in the access of common investor as compared to the past practice where only big banks or mutual fund would invest,” Ali Nawaz, CEO of Chase Securities, told Arab News.

Nawaz said investors now would be able to avail entire profit of their investment, without the involvement of any intermediaries.

 

 
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