Author: HeraldStar

Tensions between India and China have resurfaced as Beijing advances its plans to construct the world’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Yarlung Zangbo River, which becomes the Brahmaputra upon entering India. New Delhi has expressed concerns over the project’s impact on downstream states and lodged a strong protest against China’s establishment of new administrative counties in disputed border regions. The Chinese government recently approved the construction of a colossal dam on the Yarlung Zangbo River, projected to generate an annual 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. While Beijing has touted the project as a step toward green energy, India fears it…

German and French foreign ministers have embarked on a historic visit to Damascus to engage with Syria’s new rulers, signaling a cautious step toward forging a new relationship after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Annalena Baerbock of Germany and Jean-Noel Barrot of France met with Syria’s de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa on behalf of the European Union, aiming to promote peace and stability in the war-torn nation. This visit marks the first high-level EU engagement in Syria since rebels seized control of Damascus on December 8, forcing Assad into exile and ending his family’s decades-long reign. The ministers emphasized…

In a historic and tense confrontation, South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly avoided arrest on Friday when his presidential guards and military personnel thwarted an attempt by investigators to detain him at his official residence in Seoul. The six-hour standoff, marked by high drama and escalating tensions, underscores the political and legal turmoil engulfing Asia’s fourth-largest economy. Yoon, impeached on December 14 following his surprise declaration of martial law on December 3, faces criminal charges of insurrection. His controversial move to impose martial law, citing political deadlock and alleged threats from “anti-state forces,” shocked the nation and led…

In a significant development, a Finnish court has rejected a plea to release the Eagle S tanker, which is under investigation for allegedly damaging critical infrastructure beneath the Baltic Sea. The tanker, carrying Russian oil, is accused of dragging its anchor across the seabed, causing extensive damage to the Finnish-Estonian Estlink 2 power line and four telecommunications cables last week. The incident, which occurred on December 25, disrupted power and communication networks, raising concerns about the security of vital infrastructure in the region. Finnish authorities seized the Eagle S tanker the following day, citing evidence linking the vessel to the…

By Malik Nadeem Akhtar As the climate crisis deepens, the world stands at a crossroads. Governments talk of net-zero, NGOs rally for change, and activists make headlines. But there’s one sector with both the power and the incentive to lead the transition toward a sustainable future: the market. Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is a present economic disruptor. From extreme weather hammering agriculture and supply chains, to rising insurance costs and stranded fossil fuel assets, the financial implications are staggering. The 2023 World Economic Forum ranked climate inaction as the greatest long-term risk to the global economy.…

By Malik Nadeem Akhtar Chief Business Correspondent, Herald Star As the climate crisis escalates globally, Pakistan—one of the most climate-vulnerable countries despite contributing less than 1% to global greenhouse gas emissions—stands at a critical juncture. The business sector, long viewed as a passive observer in environmental matters, is now increasingly seen as both a culprit and a potential catalyst for climate solutions. The question is no longer whether businesses should engage in climate action—but how deeply and authentically they are willing to do so. Economic Realities Meet Environmental Urgency In 2022, Pakistan suffered over $30 billion in damages due to…

Islamabad: Qaiser Nawab, President of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), held a significant meeting with Malik Mohammad Habib Khan, the former Interior and Narcotics Minister of Pakistan, to deliberate on critical national issues. The discussions centered on current challenges related to law and order, counter-terrorism measures, and the pivotal role of youth engagement in fostering peace and prosperity within society. Sardar Waqar Khan, Head of Internationalization and Diplomatic Engagement at the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD) and the Global Strategic Institute for Sustainable Development (GSISD) was also present during the meeting. He emphasized…

Islamabad: Deputy Chairman Senate Senator Seydaal Khan visited the residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F), to inquire about his health and convey best wishes for his swift recovery. Senator Seydaal Khan was accompanied by youth leader and President Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development BRISD Qaiser Nawab during the visit. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss pressing national political matters and current affairs. Senator Seydaal Khan commended Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his pivotal role in Pakistan’s political landscape, particularly in shaping key constitutional amendments, including the 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th amendments. “Maulana Fazlur…

Islamabad, December 25, 2024 – Advocate Sardar Waqar Shahzad, Head of Internationalization and Diplomatic Engagement at the Global Strategic Institute for Sustainable Development (GSISD), visited the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to pay his respects and express condolences following the tragic crash of Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243. Advocate Shahzad extended heartfelt sympathies to the people of Azerbaijan on behalf of GSISD, emphasizing the strong bond of brotherhood between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. He also signed the condolence book, expressing solidarity with the grieving families and the Azerbaijani nation during this difficult time. Deputy Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Senator Sardar Syedaal…

Islamabad, December 27, 2024 — On the 17th anniversary of the martyrdom of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Qaiser Nawab, a young leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), paid heartfelt tribute to the legacy and vision of Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister. “Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was more than a political leader; she was a symbol of resilience, hope, and democracy. Her sacrifice for the restoration of democracy, the supremacy of Parliament, and the establishment of a people’s government has made her immortal in the hearts of millions,” Nawab stated. Recalling her enduring legacy, Qaiser Nawab added:“شہید محترمہ بینظیر بھٹو…