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India’s Muslim quota conundrum

Aijaz Zaka Syed

The more things change for India ’s Muslims, the more they remain the same. Come elections and political parties invent ever new ways of wooing, using and exploiting them to reap their periodic harvest while the condition of the Muslims worsens by the day.

Being the oldest and most experienced of them all, the Congress Party has obviously mastered this art of fooling all the people all the time at the expense of some. But it’s not just the Congress; in this public bath, no one has a stitch on. With the crucial battle for five states heating up, the Muslims once again find themselves in the middle of a dirty, cynical game of one-upmanship with every political party using them as a football and a punching bag.

Uttar Pradesh is the big prize. Stakes couldn’t have been higher. Everyone from Mulayam’s Smajwadi to Mayawati’s Bahujan Samaj Party, which first proposed a Muslim quota stealing the Congress’ thunder, is hungering after the pie. The Muslim-loving BJP is in the big game hunt too and is sharpening its knives for the sacrificial lamb.

Adding to the fun is the new breed of party – and channel-hopping ‘Muslim leaders’ parroting their newest party’s latest pitch swearing it to be God’s gift to the community. It gets so gross and nauseating at times you feel like throwing the TV remote at them!

The farce never seems to end. First, the Congress sends up the balloon of 4.5 percent quota for Muslims, rather conveniently, just before the poll dates were unveiled. It’s followed by the joke of a ‘minority quota’ in the still-born Lokpal, the corruption watchdog.

Law and Minority Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid then takes the game to a new level by promising to double the quota to nine percent. Interestingly, it came at his wife’s poll rally in Farrukhabad, raising a political storm and provoking the poll panel to freeze the quota. The Congress stands to lose nothing though. It could always demand the Muslim vote claiming it was committed to helping the community but its efforts were thwarted by parties like the BJP and others.

The grand ol’ party has played this cynical game for so long that it knows too well how it’s all going to unfold and how the opposition and media would respond to it. All you have to do is throw those perfect promises and dazzling dreams at the Muslims and the rest will follow.

Even if the Congress were serious and sincere about implementing the quota, even the paltry 4.5 percent, it makes little difference to the community in real terms if it is carved out of the existing 27 percent quota marked for the Other Backward Communities. Some Muslim groups like Ansaris (weavers) and Qureshis (butchers) are already covered under the 27 percent quota. It’s the economically struggling sections of the community that badly need hand holding.

And now with the EC staying the quota with courts likely to follow suit as happened in Andhra Pradesh, the Muslims have ended up once again with nothing while earning themselves a lot of ill will and resentment of the rest of the country, especially the OBCs. The cruel joke by a government fighting for its survival hasn’t just further isolated the community; it has ended up pitting it against communities that were once their allies and fellow travellers.

But then we have been here before. This is how the Congress has always paid the Muslims for their blind, unquestioning support since Independence . The Muslims have received nothing but such clever by half and often dangerous tokenism from the party. We thought things would be different under Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh because they came from a different background and could transcend the cynical, forever calculating Congress mindset.

Only the blind could have missed the fact that the Muslim vote played a critical role in bringing the party to power in 2004 after long years of wilderness. The feat was repeated in 2009, riding on all the talk of change although the government didn’t lift a finger to implement the bold recommendations of Justice Sachar Committee and the Ranganath Mishra Commission.

Both reports, especially the one by the Mishra Commission, make for disturbing reading as they turn the spotlight on the shocking state of a 200 million strong community. This is no time and place to go over them but in short both panels conclude that the Muslims are right now at the lowest rung of the hierarchy in every respect. Lowest of the low, they are today stacked even below the Dalits, the long discriminated castes. Only 4.5 percent Muslims are to be found in government jobs. Their representation in other areas is even more pathetic.

The credit for this state of affairs goes to the party that has been in power for the longest period of time since Independence . This is why you thought, if not for the wholehearted support it received in 2004 and 2009, this government would have implemented the recommendations of the two commissions it had formed in its wisdom.

If it had been serious about the minority welfare, it wouldn’t have slept on the recommendations of Justice Sachar and Justice Mishra for five years, only to remember the Muslims days ahead of the assembly elections. Personally, I have nothing but respect for Salman Khurshid. He comes from an illustrious family (grandson of the late president Dr Zakir Hussain) and obviously means well but is condemned by the company he keeps. The mindset of his party being what it is – others are fast catching up – it just cannot help itself to look beyond its petty electoral calculations and permutations and combinations of caste and religion.

I am not most comfortable with this whole quota business offering special treatment, or affirmative action as the Americans call it, for a particular group or community. Ideally, it should be equal opportunity for all. But we are not in an ideal situation. At times, extraordinary solutions are needed for extraordinary situations.

Affirmative action has transformed the lives of millions of the long oppressed Dalits and African Americans, helping them break free of the centuries old cycle of inhumane abuse and exploitation. It could make a difference to Muslims too, if political parties allowed it and looking at the issue from a religious prism.

The Muslim empowerment could actually mean lifting of a huge chunk of India ’s population out of misery. But even if a quota for the politically and economically dispossessed Muslims becomes a reality, it might end up doing more harm than good thanks to the cut-throat nature of Indian politics, not to mention our Hindutva friends.

Perhaps it’s about time Muslims gave up their fond, innocent hopes of political action to end their political and economic deprivation. Instead of waiting for those crumbs and doles from politicians, they must take charge of their destiny. In the end if anyone is going to help them, it’s themselves.

The writer is a Dubai-based journalist and commentator.

Kashmir Saga 2012

By Abdul Majid Zargar

Uncertainty is part of life in Kashmir , and its natives have long known that. But uncertainty underlined and emphasized by neglect and political opportunism makes for an ugly and repulsive reality. Such is the state of a nation brought to its knees not simply by the vagaries of weather, but also by the failure and indurate behavior of those supposedly in the business of serving its unfortunate citizens.

Year 2012 had barely put on its footwear to start a long & arduous walk in the most unfortunate part of the world, called Kashmir and already two innocent lives have been snuffed out by the security apparatus. Mohammad Altaf Sood, 22, was mercilessly killed in CISF firing at Boniyar providing a grim reminder of the reality that human life in Kashmir continues to be dispensable, notwithstanding the state government’s propaganda to the contrary. It hardly matters to the killers, deriving their authority to kill from a circular issued by CISF directorate, whether he was a protestor or a spectator. To them he was a young boy and a target worth shooting at. And barely within hours of the murder the discourse has already changed from few parroted words of sympathy to grant of immunity under AFPSA to the CISF personnel. Had these killers been better informed there would have been no need to seek such immunity as a precedent of killing protesters in similar situations already exists. It was 1988 when Eight people protesting for power were mowed down and not even a word of sympathy from the present Chief Minster’s Father, who was in occupation of the chair then-not to speak of any action against the erring police officials. There was no AFPSA then. This is Kashmir where immunity is inbuilt in the actions aimed at annihilating its inhabitants, whatever be the reason.

And dust had barely settled when another soul was demolished at Sopore. An innocent civilian, again a young man, was brutally done to death while crying for help in an injured condition. Such is the wanton barbarity perpetrated by Deep State that humanity wants to keep its head hanged in shame in perpetuity.

Scholar Vincent H. Smith once wrote “few regions in the world can have had worse luck than Kashmir in the matter of Govt.” And this observation which is echoed by most historians of this unfortunate nation, ascribes their fate partly to the coward character of its population which invited oppression and partly to their leadership to whom nothing but staying in power matters, even if it means playing a mercenary role for their Masters.

And When the nation’s chief executive, its Chief Minster, makes a sojourn to Delhi with his three year report card and a request for additional power (mind you –it is electric power & not political power) to PM Manmohan Singh ( HT online edition-3rd Jannuary) one is reminded of the famous couplets of Allama Iqbal

 “ Aaj who kashmir hay Mahkoom, majboor wa Fakir- Kal jissay ahli nazar kehtay theiy Iran-i-sageer”

Sarmaon ki hawawoon mein hay uryan badan us ka, Deta hay hunur jis ka ameeroon ka dooshala.

 (Today the Kashmir, which used to be known as little Iran till yesteryears, is a slave and a pauper, -Its skilled natives, who make warm shawls for others are themselves bare chested in winters)

How many Indians, I wonder, recognize the fact that since that fateful night of 26th October 1947,Kashmiris have gained least and lost most from India supposed to be a free, secular and democratic country? Do they still hope to win the battle for minds when they have already lost the war for our hearts?

 (The author is a practicing chartered Accountant. Feed back at amzargar1@indiatimes.com)

Committee to celebrate the Birth Anniversary of KIM JONG IL

Kathmandu : Nepal National Preparatory Committee to commemorate the 70th Birth Anniversary of Dear Leader Comrade KIM JONG IL was formed under the Chairmanship of Hon'ble Mr. C.P. Mainali, General Secretary of CPN (ML) along with other dignitaries of different walks of the National life as its members. The Committee has decided to organize various functions highlighting the immortal contributions of Comrade KIM JONG IL.

Prof. Manik Lal Shrestha, Mr. Manju Ratna Sakya and Mr. Phanindra Raj Panta are the Co-Chairman, General Secretary and Secretary of the Committee respectively.

H.E. the Ambassador of DPRK Mr. Kim Yong Su was also present at the meeting.

First carrier in Mexico to order eco-efficient A320neo aircraft

Mexican low cost carrier Volaris has signed a purchase agreement for 44 eco-efficient Airbus A320 aircraft, comprised of 30 A320neo and 14 A320 aircraft. The order represents the largest single commercial aircraft order ever by an airline in Mexico. Volaris, also the first airline in Mexico to order the A320neo, will announce its engine selections for the aircraft at a later date.

Since starting operations in 2006, Volaris has become one of the top three airlines in Mexico having quickly expanded their network throughout the country and into the United States. The new 44 A320 Family aircraft will more than double the airline’s all-Airbus fleet to support their expansion and fleet renewal plans. The airline currently operates 34 Airbus aircraft and has a backlog of 58, including the aircraft announced  “The arrival of the new A320s is great news not only for Volaris and the environment,” said Volaris CEO Enrique Beltranena. “It is good news also for all of our customers.  The new airplanes will let us strengthen our low price strategy to benefit a larger number of Mexicans, while their fuel efficiency and reliability will allow our fleet, the youngest in the country, to be even more friendly to the Mexican skies.”

 “This order is important – not just as the largest in Mexico’s aviation history – but also insofar as it enhances the already strong Airbus partnership with one of the leading airlines in that country,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “In addition, Volaris will become among the first airlines in Latin America to benefit from the A320neo’s increased capabilities, including a 15 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions.” Over 8,200 A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and nearly 5,000 delivered to some 340 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload at a given range.

Grand Pak Art Exhibition

Kathmandu : Artist Proof Prints Gallery presents an exhibition of art works, "Three in a Crowd" by Pakistani Artists / Printmakers Atif Khan, Sophiya Khwaja, Zaira Ahmad at New Orleans Cafe, Pulchowk, Lalitpur, Nepal on Friday, 27th Jan., 2012 at 4:30 pm.

H.E. Mr. Ahmar Ismail Charge d' Affaires, Pakistan Embassy, has kindly consented to open the exhibition.
The exhibition continue till 15th Feb. 2012.

On this occasion, H.E. Mr. Ahmar Ismail, Charge d' Affaires of Embassy of Pakistan has delivered the message.
In a message, Mr. Ahmar Ismail has said, "In 2010, Nepal and Pakistan celebrated the golden jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations through a number of events.  Since then, the bilateral relations have been significantly improved through enhanced economic, commercial, social, political and cultural interaction.
The present exhibition is a step towards further cementing the excellent cultural interaction  taking place between Pakistan and Nepal.

I believe the Artists speak an international language, common to  all cultures and heritage's . They play a prominent role in bridging gaps bringing together two peoples.

Ms. Ragini Upadhyay has been closely following the art and cultural trends in all the countries of the South Asian region, and it is, indeed, an honour that the works of three prominent artists from Pakistan are being displayed in her arts gallery. Being an art-critic herself, she has rightly assessed the worth of emerging Pakistani artists and I am confident that the art-circles of Nepal will equally  appreciate their work.

More than 100 works of art are being displayed, providing a rich exposure to the recent trends in arts and culture in Pakistan. I welcome all the respected visitors to the exhibition."

SEEMO Condemns Police Beating of Kosovo Photo journalist

Vienna -The Vienna-based South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO), an affiliate of the International Press Institute (IPI), condemns alleged police violence against Kosovo freelance photojournalist Vedat Xhymshiti. On Saturday 14 anuary, the reporter was covering clashes between demonstrators and Kosovo police near the Merdare border crossing between Serbia and Kosovo, when he was struck by policemen. He lost conscioussness but was not hospitalised. The attack was filmed.

The 14 January protests were organised by the Vetevendosje Movement whose members gathered in order to impede the free flow of goods between Serbia and Kosovo at the Merdare and Dheu i Bardhe border crossings. Vetevendosje opposes contact with Serbia. The police prevented the demonstrators from reaching border crossings. There were clashes, and injuries on both sides. Xhymshiti told SEEMO that he saw a citizen on the ground being beaten by policemen. He was about to take a photo when he was assaulted. "I call on the police authorities to investigate and sanction those who attacked Xhymshiti", said Oliver Vujovic, SEEMO Secretary General.  "Vedat Xhymshiti was carrying filming equipment when the police attacked him. It was clear that he was a journalist. Beating a journalist is a direct attack on press freedom."

Thailand Tourism Proves its Resilience Once Again

Kathmandu — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)  announced that tourism arrival numbers for the Kingdom have returned to normal, following a slight decline at the end of the year due to the flooding.

As the flood has started to recede in early December, Thailand’s tourism sector once again showed its resilience. With the co-operation of the public and private sectors, the TAT launched the “Beautiful Thailand” campaign, which regained the confidence of international travellers and resulted in rapid growth in the number of tourist arrivals. By the end of 2011, Thailand welcomed a total of over 19 million international visitors, which represents annual growth of 20% compared to 2010.

“The Thai tourism sector has proven its ability to bounce back when faced with similar situations in the past. This is due to the uniqueness and quality of our tourism products and the strength of the Thailand brand, which has strong affinity with travellers all over the world,” said Mr Sansern Ngaorungsi, Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Asia and the South Pacific). “As more people have understood that Thailand’s tourism infrastructure remains intact and they can enjoy the many memorable experiences that only Thailand offers, we have seen the rapid restoration of tourist arrival numbers.”

Thailand started off 2012 strongly with over 300,000 international visitor arrivals during the first week of January. This is very close to the number of arrivals for the same period last year, demonstrating that Thailand’s tourism sector has once again rebounded. For 2012, the TAT is targeting more than 19.5 million international arrivals, a 26% increase over last year’s target. Tourism revenues for 2012 are expected to reach 24 billion USD (766 billion Baht), an increase of 28% over last year.

Nearly 30% of visitors to Thailand come from within the ASEAN region. ASEAN visitor arrivals to Thailand during January-November 2011 totalled 4.9 million, up 22% over the same period of 2010. The top five ASEAN countries for arrivals include, Malaysia with over 2 million arrivals (up 16%), followed by Lao PDR with 821,000 arrivals (up 26%), Singapore with 592,000 arrivals (up 14%), Vietnam with 475,000 arrivals (up 37%), and Indonesia with 337,000 arrivals (up 33%). Over 84% of ASEAN tourists are repeat visitors, and 81% are Free Independent Travelers (FITs). In 2010, around 3.3 million Thais visited the other ASEAN countries, and over 1.7 million Thais traveled to destinations in ASEAN during the first half of 2011.

The TAT’s strategy for 2012 will focus on Thailand’s brand image, digital marketing, sustainable tourism and effective crisis communications. For Brand Image, the TAT will continue to reinforce the essence of the Thailand brand, “Amazing Thailand Always Amazes You”, with a focus on authenticity, value for money, and hospitality.

Digital marketing will play an increasingly important role in the tourism sector. The TAT has been using digital marketing to promote Thai tourism for many years and has been recognized as a leader in online tourism. It will continue to tap into a wider pool of travelers through social networks, online games, and mobile applications.

Sustainable tourism is another key aspect of the TAT’s strategy. The TAT has continuously promoted sustainable tourism through the concept of Seven Greens – Green Heart, Green Logistics, Green Destinations, Green Communities, Green Activities, Green Services, and Green[Plus]+, which encourages Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) among operators. It also collaborates with various partners to identify interesting options for eco-friendly travel, such as the Green Hotels, the Green Islands of Ko Chang, and newer environmental-friendly tourism products.

The fourth and final part of the TAT’s strategy will be effective crisis communications. Through a combination of digital media tools and traditional channels, the TAT is able to communicate the accurate information that tourists need when a crisis situation occurs.

The Thai tourism industry is also focused on the opportunities presented by niche markets. For travelers from the ASEAN region, the TAT focuses on niches including golf, health and wellness, shopping, entertainment, and cultural tourism.

“I am sure that the co-operation of ASEAN countries as we become an integrated tourist destination under the AEC will help to make Southeast Asia the world's favorite place for travelers. The TAT Thailand looks forward to a greater future for our part of the world, and a great year for Thai tourism itself in 2012,” concluded Deputy Governor Sansern.

The ATF was held for the first time in 1981. The event is held annually to promote tourism in the ASEAN region. Each ATF event is comprised of executive meetings, educational meetings/seminars, and a travel trade exhibition, “ASEAN Tourism Exchange: TRAVEX.”

The TAT joins the ATF every year, bringing sellers from Thailand to the trade exhibition. The sales promotion event “ASEAN Travex” is the largest travel trade event in ASEAN. This year’s TRAVEX is being held at the Golden Kuwanua Exhibition Center in Manado, Indonesia, joined by 316 Sellers from 10 ASEAN countries. The majority are from Thailand (28.48%) and Indonesia (25.31%) and there are 381 Buyers from all over the world.

Thailand’s exhibition area covers 36 sqm under the theme “Amazing Thailand Always Amazes You.” Thailand also held a “Pattaya Night” party, featuring a Tiffany Show, on 13 January 2012 to promote tourism in Pattaya and Chonburi.

Contact information:
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4544-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th
Web site: www.tatnews.org

Supreme Commander Kim Jong Il and KPA

Leader Kim Jong Il was appointed as the Supreme Commander of the Korean People’s Army on December 24, 1991. This marked an important occasion in enabling the KPA to demonstrate its might as an invincible army.

Thanks to Supreme Commander Kim Jong Il the politico-ideological might of the KPA has been built up beyond comparison.

He paid special attention to the politico-ideological preparation of service personnel as he regarded a rifle without an ideology as a mere stick. Whenever he inspected KPA units he first looked round bases for the education of soldiers to learn in detail about the distribution and use of newspapers and books. He personally attended the political studies of soldiers and enjoyed their art performances, speaking highly of their ideological and moral qualities.

Under his guidance the KPA has been developed into an army strong in ideology and faith that no other army in the world can match. Among KPA servicepersons were a pilot who died a heroic death by steering his burning plane away for the safety of the leadership of the revolution, 15 soldiers who left the letters “Long live Kim Jong Il’s thriving nation!” at the last moment of their life after drifting in the sea on their wrecked ship for nearly three months and soldiers who threw themselves over hand grenades just about to go off in order to defend the portraits of President Kim Il Sung and Supreme Commander Kim Jong Il and save their comrades.

The entire KPA is pervaded with the spirit of defending the leader unto death and its servicepersons are imbued with strong ideology and faith that are ready to sacrifice themselves without hesitation for the sake of the country and the people.

Thanks to Supreme Commander Kim Jong Il the military and technical power of the KPA has been increased to the maximum.

It was his steadfast army-building strategy to develop the KPA into a strong army that is perfect not only in politico-ideological aspects but in military and technical aspects. He has taken measures one after another to equip the army with unique strategy and tactics suited to the requirements of modern warfare and the topographic and geographic features of the country and build up the military and technical preparations of the army. He saw to it that primary efforts were directed to developing the defence industry so as to produce everything needed for boosting the defence capacities by itself.

Under his leadership the commanding officers of the KPA have become able to skillfully command any operations or battles and the soldiers have grown up into competent combatants capable of performing any combat duty in case of emergency through their intensive training. All services and arms have been equipped with modern weaponry of high striking power and mobility. It is the present-day KPA that has been prepared both for attack and defence with a powerful war deterrent.

Thanks to Supreme Commander Kim Jong Il the might of single-hearted unity of the KPA has been further consolidated rock-solid.

The unity between officers and men and that between the army and the people are the peculiar characteristics and traditional noble traits of the KPA. The traditions of the KPA, which has fully displayed the fine traits of the aforesaid unity from the first day of its founding, have come to the highest stage today by Kim Jong Il.

Noting that soldiers do not exist for commanding officers but the latter exists for the former, he has led the latter to take warm care of the former like their own flesh and blood.

The commanding officers are paying deep attention to the minute worries of their soldiers, to say nothing of their health. There are numerous instances in which the commanding officers sacrificed themselves to save their soldiers in unexpected, critical circumstances. The soldiers sincerely respect and follow their superiors and regard it as part of their moral and conscience rather than their duty to carry out their orders to the letter without any reservation. Such scenes in which the commanding officers mix themselves with soldiers are often seen at recreation parties held during recesses of training. This can be said to be a vivid picture showing the unity between officers and men of the KPA.

Kim Jong Il defined the traditional unity between the army and the people not merely as their unity of helping each other but as their unity in ideology and fighting spirit based on the strong and noble spirit displayed by soldiers and thus made sure that the whole country formed a great unity between the army and the people. The service personnel and the people form a big family and take care of and help each other like their real brothers, casting in their lots with each other. This is just the true appearance of the present Korean society.

It can be said with certainty that no force on earth can rival the might of this single-hearted unity whereby the officers and soldiers and the army and the people formed a community united by common destiny.

The KPA which has grown up into an invincible army under the leadership of Supreme Commander Kim Jong Il will, in the future, too, demonstrate its might as the strong revolutionary army of Mt. Paektu, faithfully supporting the leadership of the respected ComradeKim Jong Un.

KPA Supreme Commander Kim Jong Un, Most Faithful Comrade-in-Arms of Leader Kim Jong Il

Today the service personnel and people of the DPRK, after looking back with pride upon the 100-year history of the Juche Korea in which they have recorded victories and glory under the leadership of President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il of the DPRK National Defence Commission, started the advance for a great upsurge with a steadfast faith to glorify a new century of Kim Il Sung’s nation and Kim Jong Il’s Korea as an era of  prosperity  and  brilliant  victory  under  the  guidance  of  their   supreme   leader Kim Jong Un.

Setting it as his lifelong mission to successfully inherit and accomplish the revolutionary cause of Juche generation after generation, Kim Jong Un, as the closest comrade and most faithful comrade-in-arms of Chairman Kim Jong Il has always stood in the van of the revolution and construction together with him.

The editorial board posts some of photos showing Kim Jong Un who has always accompanied Kim Jong Il who took the helm of the drive to build a great, prosperous and powerful country, and who is faithfully carrying forward his cause.

“Kim Jong Il’s Complete Works” to Be Published

Leader Kim Jong Il made public a large number of works through his energetic ideological and theoretical activities in the protracted period of leading the revolution and construction. He developed in depth the immortal Juche idea, the Songun idea, thus rendering great services to the development of progressive ideas of humankind.

His works incorporate the lines and policies of the Workers’ Party of Korea in a systematic and comprehensive way and scientifically elucidate all theoretical and practical problems arising in the revolution and construction.

They also make a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the ideas and theories and cultural heritages made by humankind in different historical periods, the achievements, experiences and lessons gained in the struggle of the masses of the people for independence.

For their originality and validity, they serve as an ever-victorious banner which illumines the road ahead of the times and the revolution and as genuine textbooks for the people in their struggle for realizing the cause of independence.

In reflection of the desire of not only the Korean people but the world progressives to glorify the exploits ofKim Jong Il forever, the WPK Central Committee made public on January 8 that “Kim Jong Il’s Complete Works”, a library of the Juche idea, the Songun idea, will be published to mark his 70th birth anniversary.

Global Commodities Forum focus on rising prices for food

Geneva – A two-day meeting in Geneva focus on how poor countries can gain more lasting value from their exports of agricultural products and natural resources.

The third annual UNCTAD Global Commodities Forum attract government ministers, academics, development economists and business leaders in the field of commodities. Issues to be discussed include higher credit costs as a result of the fallout from the Euro-zone debt crisis, which is raising loan rates globally, and mounting food and petroleum bills for poor nations.

Many developing countries are heavily dependent on exports of basic farm goods and natural resources. Since 2002, the number of countries whose commodity exports represents more than 60 per cent of merchandise exports has risen from 85 to 91. Commodity prices increased considerably over that period. Yet climbing commodity prices appear to have had limited positive impacts on living standards in exporting countries. Many commodity dependent developing countries (CDDCs) are also classified as least developed countries (LDCs), and even during the global economic boom, rates of extreme poverty in LDCs declined only from 58 per cent in 2002 to 53 per cent in 2007 – and this was before the world food and financial crises. The World Bank estimates that the recent resurgence in food prices, which in 2011 reached levels approaching their 2008 peaks, has pushed an additional 44 million people worldwide into extreme poverty.

The theme of the conference was “Harnessing development gains from commodities production and trade”.

While a part of the increase in the number of CDDCs to 91 is due to the rising prices of commodity exports, it also indicates that the commodities boom generally has not resulted in a diversification of economic production and exports, as recommended by development economists.

Diversification is recommended in part because commodity prices are historically volatile, leaving these nations vulnerable to sudden drops in the prices of their major exports – or to sudden price increases for commodities they must import, on which they are also often heavily dependent. Most CDDCs, for example, are net importers of oil and food.

Prices for oil climbed from $20 per barrel in 2002 to $132.50 in July 2008, fell to $42 in early 2009, but climbed back to $105.36 in November 2011. In late 2011, prices for many staple food crops matched or even exceeded their levels during the much-publicized 2008 food crisis. The food price index of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, an average of staple food costs, increased from 90 in 2002 to 200 in 2008, fell as low as 157 in 2009 and then climbed to 238 in February 2011. Wheat prices escalated from $192 per ton in 2006 to $326 in 2008, fell during the global recession, then rose to $311 per ton in August 2011 before declining to $273 per ton in November. Continued price volatility in commodities markets recently has prompted high-level collaborative international action, including most recently by the United Nations High-level Task Force and the Group of Twenty.

Sri Lanka President participates in several functions in Kalutara

President Mahinda Rajapaksa participated in several functions in the Kalutara district. President declared open the first phase of the modernized Matugama Bus stand with the participation of Transport Minister, Kumara Welgama and Ports and Highways Deputy Minister, Rohitha Abeygunawardena. He also laid the foundation stone for the second phase of constructions.

While participating in the "Diri Uda 2012" ceremony held at the Matugama Town Hall organized to provide school supplies for the students in Kalutara district who enter grade one, the President stressed the importance of parents' participation and encouragement in their children's activities.

Attending several functions at Kakunadola Rajamaha Viharaya in Agalawatta, President Rajapaksa launched a water supply scheme for the Temple and opened a "Nanasala" centre at the premises for the student monks. He planted a sandal wood tree in the premises and unveiled the Vahalkada (entrance gate) of the Temple.

Transport Minister, Kumara Welgama, Plantation Industries Minister, Mahinda Samarasinghe and Ports and Highways Deputy Minister, Rohitha Abeygunawardena also participated in the occasion.

Sri Lanka President tells parents: Don't isolate teens

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday told parents not to isolate their teens, but to take care of them with the same attentiveness which they displayed when they were in their formative years.

He said that there was a tendency for parents to relax their attention towards their children when they reach adolescence. President Rajapaksa urged parents not to isolate teenagers but provide the same attentiveness they had for their siblings in their early stages.

The President noted this at a function in Matugama where he distributed educational supplies among newly admitted schoolchildren to Grade 01 in the Kalutara district.

The event was organized by Transport Minister Kumara Welgama. The supplies to over 20,000 children admitted to Grade 01 in the district this year, was distributed using Welgama's personal funds.

President Rajapaksa addressing parents who accompanied their children, told them that the best way they could show their child's worth in their own eyes was by valuing their thoughts, ideas, skills and achievements.

He said that as a busy father he was always prepared to allocate enough time for his children. He urged parents to be attentive to children's well-being, be affectionate, caring and have time for them. He told them that it was of vital importance for parents to allocate time to witness their children's achievements and appreciate and encourage them. The President said that if parents pay close attention to their children both in their needs and achievements, it could go a long way in guiding them in the correct path. The President also paid tribute to Minister Welgama and his family and said that their deeds were an example to others.

China, Nepal Issue Eight-Point Joint Statement on Relations, Cooperation

Visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Saturday, Jan. 14 2012  paid an official visit to Nepal, during which China and Nepal issued an eight-point joint statement on boosting bilateral ties and strengthening cooperation in various areas.

During the visit, Premier Wen met with Nepalese President Ram Baran Yadav and held talks with the country's Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai. The leaders of the two countries had an in-depth exchange of views and reached broad understanding on China-Nepal relations as well as on international and regional issues of mutual interest. The two sides agreed that the China-Nepal diplomatic relations, established in 1955 and characterized by equality, harmonious co-existence, ever-lasting friendship and comprehensive cooperation, are of great importance to both nations.

"Further enhancement of the ties is in accord with the fundamental interests of the two countries and is conducive to peace, stability and development in the region and the world at large," the joint statement said.

Firstly, the two sides decided to further promote China-Nepal friendly relations of Comprehensive Partnership of Cooperation Featuring Ever-Lasting Friendship on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

Secondly, the two sides agreed to share development experiences and technological advancement, and enhance all round cooperation so as to achieve mutual development and prosperity. The two sides also agreed to maintain the momentum of high-level mutual visits, and have meetings between the leaders on the multilateral occasions.

The two nations will also make full use of existing mechanisms including the diplomatic consultations and the China-Nepal Joint Economic and Trade Committee Meeting. The two sides agreed to form a Consultation Mechanism at the level of Ministers for Foreign Affairs. Thirdly, the Nepalese side expressed its firm support for China on its efforts to uphold state sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity. "Nepal does not allow any forces to use its territory for any anti-China or separatist activities," the joint statement said.

Fourthly, the two sides agreed to further intensify cooperation in socioeconomic development, promotion of trade and tourism, hydropower, and transportation infrastructure development, as well as other fields on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. At the request of the Nepalese side, the Chinese side assured of increase in the volume of regular grant aid for the implementation of various infrastructure development and other projects. Both sides agreed to improve connectivity, particularly the land transportation infrastructure between the two countries, to facilitate bilateral exchanges, cooperation and business ties. The two sides maintained that the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and Nepal should make full potentials and take their respective advantages to strengthen people-to-people exchanges in the border areas, and to promote trade, tourism, and the flow of goods and services to expand mutually beneficial cooperation.

The Chinese side said that it encourages and supports competent and well-established Chinese companies and enterprises to promote investment and joint ventures in Nepal, and will provide financing assistance, including concessional loans, to mutually agreed projects.

In the rest part of the joint statement from the fifth to the eighth points, China and Nepal agreed to improve the meeting mechanism between law-enforcing authorities of the two countries, and to deepen cooperation on border management and law-enforcement capacity-building, so as to uphold peace and stability of China-Nepal border areas.

The two countries also announced the year 2012 as "the China-Nepal Year of Friendly Exchanges," saying the two sides will continue to promote exchanges and cooperation in the areas of culture and education and between youths, media, think tanks, scholars and friendly groups of the two countries.

The two sides believed that China and Nepal have identical or similar positions on major international issues, such as global financial crisis, energy and food security, among others.

The two sides agreed to maintain close coordination and cooperation in this regard, so as to uphold the common interests of China, Nepal and other developing countries.

China and Nepal:Friendly Neighbors across Himalyas

On Jan. 14,2011, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Saturday conducted an official visit to Nepal, the first by a Chinese premier to the neighboring country over the past decade. During the visit, Wen met with Nepalese President Ram Baran Yadav, Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai and other Nepalese government and political party leaders in seeking ways to boost bilateral cooperation in various fields. The visit is certain to further promote the development of friendly ties between China and Nepal, two neighboring countries with the world's highest mountains the Himalayas embedding between them.

However, the snowy and icy mountains of the Himalayas can't block the development of time-honored friendship between the Chinese and Nepalese peoples even a little. The two countries have enjoyed a long history of exchanges dating back to over a millennium ago. A Chinese monk Faxian of the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420) and another one Xuanzang of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) visited southern Nepal to acquire Buddhist scriptures, while an outstanding Nepalese artisan Araniko visited China during the Yuan Dynasty (1206-1368)and built the delicate and charming White Stupa in central Beijing, now still an attractive scenic spot in the Chinese capital.

The two countries, which established diplomatic ties in 1955, have committed themselves to ramping up mutual political trust, trade, cultural exchanges, and tourism, among others. In December, 1996, and in May, 2001, then Chinese President Jiang Zemin and Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji respectively visited Nepal, a country with a population of 27 million and a land of 147,181 square km. In December, 2009, then Nepalese Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal paid a visit to China. In 2010, the number of bilateral personnel exchanges reached as high as 74,000. The China-Nepal relationship has been a model for that between a big country and a small one, which features equal treatment, friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation.

China has firmly bolstered Nepal in sticking to its own development path and social system selected by its own people. Meanwhile, Nepal has staunchly upheld the one-China policy and opposed any attempt to separate Tibet and Taiwan from China. The two countries, without doubt, will carry forward bilateral cooperation and push their friendly ties to a new level.