national assembly secretariat ———— “questions …activities through trade exhibitions and...

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(46th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWERS AND THEIR REPLIES”

to be asked at a sitting of the National Assembly to be held on

Wednesday, the 20th September, 2017

12. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi:(Deferred on 11-09-2017)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state:

(a) the year-wise funds allocated, released and utilized for thepromotion of exports of the country since June, 2013;

(b) whether it is a fact that small percentage of above-mentionedfunds were used for the promotion of exports during the saidperiod; if so, the reasons alongwith the impacts thereof; and

(c) the steps being taken by the Government to increase exports?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Mohammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) Trade Development Authority of Pakistan is the primary exports promotiondepartment of Pakistan. During the period July 2012 to June 2017 (5 years),TDAP received funds amounting to Rs.5,147,231,000/- from Finance DivisionOut of these funds TDAP incurred Rs. 2,406,985,500/- on promotion of exportduring the stated period.

(b) The amount i.e. Rs.2,406,985,500/- mentioned above has been fullyutilized for promotion of export. The detailed break-up of the activities, year-wise, is attached at Annex-I.

(c) The following steps being taken by the Government to increaseexports:

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i. Prime Minister of Pakistan has announced the export package ofPKR 180 billion for exporting business community, which is applicablefor nearly 18 months for the period from 16th January, 2017 to 30thJune, 2018. The incentive for 2017-18 would be available to thosewho would achieve an increase of 10% in annual exports. Out of thetotal annual allocation, an amount of PKR 107.5 billion has beenallocated to textiles sector (PKR 87.5 billion for Draw Backs andPKR 20 billion for withdrawal of duties/taxes on import of cottonand machinery), whereas an amount of PKR 12.5 billion is the annualallocation for Draw Backs on export of non-textiles (other valueadded sectors).

ii. Under Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF), 2015-18, a totalof Rs. 6 billion is allocated for current year spent on the development.The initiatives inter-alia include:

a. Technology Up-gradation: An incentive for technologyup-gradation in the shape of investment support of 20% andmark-up support of 50% upto a maximum of Rs. 1 (one) Millionper annum per company for import of new plant and machinery.

b. Product Development: Matching grant upto a maximum ofRs. 5 (five) Million for specified plant and machinery or specifieditems to improve product design and encourage innovation inSMEs and export sectors of leather, pharmaceutical andfisheries.

c. Branding & Certification Development Support: Matchinggrant to facilitate the branding and certification for faster growthof the SME and export sector in Pakistan’s economy throughIntellectual Property Registration (including trade and servicemarks), Certification and Accreditation.

d. Draw-back for local taxes and levies (DLTL): DLTL isbeing given to exporters on free on board (FOB) values oftheir enhanced exports if increased by 10% and beyond (overlast year’s exports) at the rate of 4% on the increased exports.

iii. Short-term export enhancement measures:—Under short-termexport enhancement measures, the four product categories i.e.

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Basmati rice, horticulture, meat and meat products, and jewellery,are being focused with the parallel focus on the following markets: (i)Iran, (ii) Afghanistan, (iii) China, and (iv) European Union.

iv. Under Textile Policy 2014-2019, Rs. 6 billion was allocated in thefiscal year FY2016-17 to facilitate exporters.

v. The sales tax zero-rating regime for five export oriented sectors, i.e.,textile, leather, carpets, surgical and sports goods has been introducedwith effect from July 1, 2016.

vi. In order to counter the import surge through unfair trade andstrengthen trade defence mechanisms, National Tariff CommissionAct has been revamped and approved by the Parliament in 2015.

vii. In order to promote exports to new markets, Trade DevelopmentAuthority of Pakistan is undertaking various export promotionalactivities through trade exhibitions and delegations.

viii. The State Bank of Pakistan has further reduced the discount rate to5.75%. Similarly, the Export Finance Rate is currently at 3%, whichis the lowest in a decade.

ix. Exim Bank is being established to facilitate export credit and forreducing the cost of borrowing for exporting sectors on a long termbasis. This will also reduce their risks through export credit guaranteesand insurance facilities. The Board of Directors of the Bank hasbeen appointed and it will be functional soon after completing thetechnical formalities.

x. The Ministry is undertaking consistent efforts for getting additionalmarket access for Pakistani products in the potential markets. In thisregard, FTA negotiations with Turkey and Thailand are at an advancedstage, negotiations with Iran on FTA are being initiated, and jointresearch study to assess the potential for a preferential arrangementwith Korea is underway.

xi. To further improve the existing regulatory regime and incentivizeexport oriented sectors, the following measures are underway in theMinistry of Commerce to enhance exports of the country:

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� Mid Course Review of STPF 2015-18.

� Review of Export and Import Policy Order to streamline theregulatory regime for trade facilitation.

� Extension of Prime Minister’s Trade Enhancement Package.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

16. *Dr. Fouzia Hameed:(Deferred on 11-09-2017)

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to statethe targets fixed and achieved by the Ministry and its attached/sub-ordinate departments during the last four years for improvementof service structure and public service delivery?

Minister for States and Frontier Regions [Lt. General (Retd.) AbdulQadir Baloch]: At present SAFRON Division is Administrative Division for FATAat Federal Lever and has only one Attached Department i.e Chief Commissioneratefor Afghan Refugees(CCAR), Islamabad.

FATA SECRETARIAT:

Public Service delivery imparted by Health and Education Sectors i.e.target fixed and achieved during the last four years and improvement of servicestructure is given below

I. Health Sector at Annex-I.

II. Education Sector at Annex-II.

CCAR, ISLAMABAD.

The mandate of the Chief Commissionerate for Afghan Refugees Islamabadbeing an attached department of SAFRON is to assist the Ministry of SAFRONin policy formulation and its implementation on all matters relating to Afghan refugees.The CCAR office is also responsible for monitoring and evaluation of programsbeing carried out by CARs, International Organizations and NGOs.

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Target fixed and achieved by CCAR during the last four years andimprovement of service structure are at Annex-III.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

@17. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of Pakistani students presently involved inlabourer/employments by Pakistani businessmen in UK;

(b) whether it is a fact that the Pakistani businessmen in the saidcountry are exploiting the above said students and giving themlow salaries as compared to market rates; and

(c) the mechanism adopted by the Ministry to protect the rights ofthose students?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): (a)According to UK statistics, a total of 58,512 study visas have been granted from2011 to first quarter of 2015 to Pakistani students. However, total number ofPakistani students presently involved in labor/employment by Pakistani businessmenin UK is not available in any official document.

(b) Pakistani students like all international students are generally allowedto do part time job (for limited working hours) with a fixed minimum wage rate.Employers are required to report all such contractual agreements to HMRC —Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs. This reporting mechanism ensures that nobodyis employed on less than minimum wage rate. HMRC also deducts taxes fromemployers. These sponsors pay salaries to their employers according to locallaws.

(c) Community Welfare Attaché’s office at Consulate General of Pakistanis operative and any such incidents can be reported to this Wing in order to takeup the issue with concerned quarters.____________________________________________________________@Transferred from Overseas Pakistani’s and Human Resource Development Division:

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@96. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:


(a) the location-wise names of the educational institutionsestablished by the Government of Pakistan abroad; and

(b) whether there is any proposal under consideration of theGovernment to establish more such institutions abroad; if so,the proposed locations thereof?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): (a) PakistanEmbassy/community Schools are present in fifteen Pakistan Missions abroad i.e.Abu Dhabi, Ankara, Bahrain, Beijing, Cairo, Damascus, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah,Kuwait, Muscat, Tripoli, Riyadh, and Tehran.

(b) There is no such proposal under consideration of Government toestablish more such institutions abroad.

2. *Ms. Shagufta Jumani:(Deferred on 11-09-2017)

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistani’s and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state:

(a) the year-wise funds allocated for Overseas Pakistanis Foundationsince 01-01-2014;

(b) the performance of the said Foundation during the said period?

Minister for Overseas Pakistani’s and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Saddaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a) The OPF does notreceive any financial allocation under the Govt of Pakistan Public SectorDevelopment Program (PSDP). The source of funding of the Foundation is WelfareFund collected from the emigrants who proceed abroad under the EmigrationOrdinace,1979 for employment.

Years wise Receipts are as fallowing:____________________________________________________________@Transferred from Federal Education and Professional Tranning Division:

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Rs. In “000”——————————————————————————————

Audited Un- Audited——————————————————————————————

2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17——————————————————————————————

Rs. 2,511,775 Rs. 2,813,828 Rs. 3,080,426 Rs. 2,522,954——————————————————————————————(b) Performance of Overseas Pakistanis Foundation since 01-01-2014

WELFARE SECTOR:

� Financial Aid provided to 4,374 beneficiaries amounting toRs.1,259 million.

� Free Transport of bodies of deceased OPs, from Airport - 568 cases.

� 4,341 complaints registered with OPF, 2,574 cases have been settledand rest are being pursued with concerned departments.

� Recovery of end of service dues from employers amounting toRs.1,042 million of 1,587 cases.

� 92,052 patients treated and 5,503 patients operated in OPF EyeHospital Mirpur (AJK).

� 147,502 patients treated and 5,782 patients operated in OPF EyeHospital YaroKhoso, D.G. Khan.

� 103 eye camps have been established, 238,309 patients treated and20,526 patients operated.

� One Window Facilitation Desks (OWFD) have been established atall major international airports in Pakistan.

� 31,868 Foreign Exchange Remittance Cards (FERC) issued againstremittances of US$ 742 million.

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EDUCATION SECTOR:

� Outreach scholarship programs for the children of Overseas Pakistanisstudying in Pakistan, in collaboration of the Punjab EducationEndowment Fund(PEEF). Rs. 30 Million has been allocated forthe scheme.

HOUSING SECTOR:

� Completion of development works (Roads, Water Supply, Sewerage,Bridges) of OPF Housing Scheme in Zone-V, Islamabad by FWO.

� Completion of development works of OPF Housing Scheme Phase-IExtension Lahore.

� Completion of construction works of OPF School building at Sanghar& Gujrat.

� Commencement of construction works of OPF School building atPeshawar & Quetta (55% Completed).

� Improvement in security surveillance at OPF Housing Schemes, OPFSchools/Colleges.

� Rehabilitation & Improvement of OPF Housing schemes Lahore,Peshawar & Mirpur (AJK).

RESEARCH & TRAINING SECTOR:

� Research, Training & Policy Reforms division was established on1st December, 2016 and responsible to provide overall strategicguidance for smooth functioning of the organization.

� Policy Research carried out on various topics such as

� Reintegration of Returnee Migrant Workers

� Trends of Migration: A Comparative Analysis

� Organized an International seminar on “Enhancing the Role ofOverseas Pakistanis in Nation Building” to highlight the issues andproblems related to overseas Pakistanis.

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144. *Ms. Sajida Begum:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to refer to the StarredQuestion No.270 replied on 19-4-2017 and to state the total numberof Pakistanis imprisoned in the jails of Bulgaria at present?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): As perinformation received from Parep Sofia, there are currently five (5) Pakistani nationalsimprisoned in Bulgarian Jails on various charges.

145. *Ms. Suraiya Jatoi:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state the platforms/offices established/opened for Oversees Pakistanis to lodge/register their complaintssince June, 2013 alongwith facilities available in said platforms/offices?

Minister for Overseas Pakistani’s and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Saddaruddin Shah Rashidi): OPF Complaint Cell

� In order to resolve the complaints /issues of Overseas Pakistanis, aComplaint Cell is functioning in OPF. All Regional Offices of OPFi.e Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, and Mirpur (AJK)are nominated as focal points to resolve the complaints of OverseasPakistanis related to various Agencies/Departments.

� Since June, 2013 total 5036 complaints have been registered withOPF for appropriate action and about 2995 cases have been settledand rest are being pursued with concerned departments.

� Further, 24/7 Monitoring/Complaint Cell has been established/functioning with effect from 26-06-2013 in OPF head officeIslamabad. The main function of the cell is to facilitate the OverseasPakistanis at any time. Help Line (111-040-040).

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� One Window Facilitation Desks (OWFD) have been established atall major International Airports in Pakistan to resolve the issues ofOverseas Pakistanis, while coming in and going abroad.

� In addition to above the following steps has been taken by theGovernment.

(a) Grievance Commissioner for Overseas Pakistanis has beenappointed by the Wafadi Mohtasib (Ombudsman) Secretariat,Islamabad for resolving the complaints of overseas Pakistanis.

(b) Overseas Pakistanis Commission Punjab (OPC) has beenestablished by the Punjab Government for resolving theproblems of the overseas Pakistanis and registered theircomplaints through online system.

146. *Ms. Khalida Mansoor:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to statethe position holds Pakistan in Cricket in International Ranking atpresent?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada):The present position/rankings of Pakistan Cricket Team are as under:—

i. Test 6th

ii. One Day Intentional 6th

iii. T20 2nd

147. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the name of countries to which Pakistani passengers are notallowed to take medicines with them at present; and

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(b) whether any publication for public awareness regarding such banis being published/made in Pakistan?

Transferred to National Health Services, Regulation and CoordinationDivision for answer on Next Rota Day.

148. *Mr. Imran Zafar Leghari:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state whetherit is a fact that China has given a proposal to Pakistan to setup aTrade Centre on Pakistan China border for promoting bilateral trade;if so, the details thereof?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Mohammad Pervaiz Malik):No such proposal has been given by the People’s Republic of China to setup aTrade Centre on Pakistan-China border for promotion of bilateral trade.

149. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Masters qualifications in Pakistanare not at par with foreign education system; if so, the reasonsthereof; and

(b) the criteria being adopted by the Inter Board Committee ofChairmen while granting equivalence certificate in above case?

Transferred from Federal Education and Professional Tranning Divisionfor answer on Next Rota Day.

150. *Ms. Asyia Naz Tanoli:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the total number of players of the Pakistan CricketTeam included in the tax net;

(b) the total number of players of said Team to be included in taxnet in the near future alongwith the details thereof; and

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(c) the total amount of revenue collected therefrom during the year2015-16?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz Hussain Pirzada):(a) Attached as Annexure ‘A’.

(b) Attached as Annexure ‘B’.

(c) Attached as Annexure ‘A’.


151. *Ms. Parveen Masood Bhatti:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) whether it is a fact that Russia has offered to Pakistan for FreeTrade Agreement;

(b) if so, the time by which the said Agreement is likely to be signed?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Mohammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Russian president Vladimir Putinheld a bilateral meeting on 9 June in Astana on the sidelines of the SCO.

Russian President stated that Pakistan has been showing interest in closerties between Eurasian economic union and Pakistan including by having a FreeTrade Agreement. If Pakistan submits a statement, Russia can consider thisagreement within the framework of EEU.

It may be recalled that our Ambassador in Moscow vide letter dated 26thAugust, 2016 had informed that Pakistan could not enter into Free Trade Agreement(FTA) with Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) because Armenia is also a memberof this Customs Union and Pakistan does not have political relations with Armenia.

In view of the foregoing Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been requested toclarify whether Pakistan should then make a formal statement to EAEU as suggestedby the Russian president in the above referred meeting with our Prime Minister.Once its response from MoFA is received Ministry of Commerce shall planaccordingly.

(b) No agreement is scheduled to be signed as yet.

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152. *Mr. Muhammad Muzammil Qureshi:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) whether Pakistan has assessed diplomatic relationships withmember countries of the South Asian Association for RegionalCooperation (SAARC) particularly with reference to cancellationof recently schedule of SAARC Conference in Islamabad; if so,the details thereof; and

(b) the steps being taken to consult all members to hold the SAARCConference in Islamabad in coming months?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): (a) Pakistanhas been following a policy to have friendly relations with the member countries ofthe SAARC. Pakistan remains committed to improve the quality of life of peopleof South Asia, promoting peace and stability, accelerating the pace of economicgrowth, and strengthening collective self-reliance under the banner of SAARC.

The postponing of the 19th SAARC Summit, which was scheduled totake place in Islamabad on 09-10 November 2015, was disappointing not onlyfor Pakistan but it was also a blow to the collective well-being of the region.

However, Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to regionalcooperation and connectivity, which are the objectives of SAARC organization.In the aftermath of postponement of 19th SAARC Summit, Pakistan decided tofollow a policy of constructive engagement with the SAARC process and SAARCmember states.

In the context of SAARC, Pakistan has attended all the important meetingsheld so far (including 8th Meeting of the SAARC Ministers of Interior/Home heldin Colombo from 12-13 July 2017 and Sixth Meeting of the SAARC HealthMinisters held in Colombo 29th July 2017).

(b) Pakistan is in close contact with the government of Nepal (the currentSAARC Chair), SAARC Secretariat, and member countries through diplomaticchannels with a view to holding the Summit as soon as possible. During the SAARCmeetings as well as through diplomatic channels on bilateral level, Pakistan hasreiterated its commitment to SAARC process and expressed readiness to holdthe Summit at an early date.

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153. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the total number of trade agreements including Free TradeAgreements and Pre-ferential Trade Agreement made betweenPakistan and Afghanistan during the last three years; and

(b) the volume of trade between both countries at present?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Industry Mr. MuhammadPervaiz Malik): (a) No trade Agreement has been signed with Afghanistan duringthe last three years.

(b) The volume of Pakistan’s trade with Afghanistan during 2016-17was US$ 1623 of which Pakistan’s export to Afghanistan amount to U$ 1286million and the value of imports from Afghanistan to Pakistan was US$ 337 million.

154. *Ms. Shamas Un Nisa:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the steps taken by the Government to strengthen friendlyrelations with Sri Lanka since June, 2013; and

(b) whether it is a fact that India is planning to increase its area ofinfluence in Sri Lanka just like in Afghanistan; if so, the stepstaken by the Government to counter the same?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): (a) TheGovernment of Pakistan has taken a number of steps to strengthen our bilateralrelations with Sri Lanka since June, 2013. Some of the measures adopted in thisregard are given below:

Political Cooperation with Sri Lanka

2. Bilateral relations with Sri Lanka got impetus through regular visitsand interactions at the highest political levels. These high level meetings have been

Shoaib — 4th Rota Day (2017 NA (S) PC-9

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conducted both at bilateral and multilateral fora including the meeting between theformer Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, and his Sri Lankan counterpart on thesidelines of World Economic Forum, in January, 2017 as well as his visit to SriLanka in January 2016. The President visited Sri Lanka in March 2016 and theSri Lankan President visited Pakistan in April 2015. The former Prime Ministeralso held a meeting with Sri Lankan President on the sidelines of 70th session ofUNGA held in New York on 26 September 2015.During these visits variousMoUs were signed between the two sides to strengthen cooperation in fields ofhealth, science & technology, culture, fashion designing, anti money laundering,statistics, trade development, atomic energy, narcotics, disaster management,shipping and sports.

The 4th Round of Foreign Secretary level Bilateral Political Consultationswas held in Islamabad in August 2014 to review all issues of importance.

Economic Cooperation with Sri Lanka

3. Economic relations between our two countries are stimulated throughJoint Economic Commission (JEC), exchange of trade fairs, exchange ofcommercial delegations, holding of Pakistan Single Country Exhibition in Sri Lankaand encouraging Sri Lankan businessmen’s participation in Pakistan’s TEXPO. Inthis regard, the 11th session of the Pakistan Sri Lanka JEC was held in Sri Lankain November 2013. The two sides agreed to activate four Joint Working Groupson Trade, Investment, Auto sector and Customs cooperation. Commerce Ministervisited Sri Lanka, in November 2015, to move the bilateral economic agenda. InJanuary 2016, Commerce Minister inaugurated the Pakistan Single CountryExhibition in Colombo. In the exhibition over 120 companies from various sectorsparticipated. The second edition of the said exhibition was held in January 2017.A delegation led by Sri Lanka’s Minister of Commerce and Industry visited Pakistan,in April 2016, to participate in TEXPO 2016 held in Karachi.

Defence Cooperation

4. Both the countries enjoy a deep relationship. There have been regularhigh level military to military visits and joint training programmes of the two sides.

Development and Relief Assistance to Sri Lanka

5. Pakistan has been cooperating through direct development assistanceto the Island State in form of extending scholarships, provision of computers to the

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educational institutes, capacity development, up-gradation of health care services,provision of furniture and fixture to schools and colleges and installation of heavyduty Water Filtration Plants.

6. In the wake of severe floods, Pakistan provided relief and rescueassistance to Sri Lanka in May, 2017. Earlier, Pakistan dispatched 25 MT rice onimmediate basis in February 2017, whereas another 10,000 MT of Rice wereshipped through sea in March-April, 2017 for flood affectees of Sri Lanka.

National Training Programmes

7. Pakistan also provides training facilities to Sri Lankan bureaucracyranging from banking, finance, Technical Assistance Programmes at Foreign Serviceand Railway Academies, training of police personnel and counter narcotics officials.

Tourism and Cultural Cooperation

8. Pakistan provides opportunities to the Buddhist clergy of Sri Lankato visit Pakistan’s Gandhara/Buddhist heritage/civilization. Vesak festival is arrangedin Taxila to promote Buddhist heritage. Political and cultural linkages arestrengthened by sharing our Buddhist holy relics and celebration of Buddhistfestivals.

Parliamentary Cooperation

9. Parliamentary cooperation is strengthened through Sri Lanka PakistanParliamentary Friendship Association in Lankan Parliament and Pakistan Sri LankaFriendship Group in our Parliament. Moreover, the Speaker of Pakistan’s NationalAssembly visited Sri Lanka in 2013.

(b) All countries including India are trying to expand their influence inSri Lanka owing to its importance in Indian Ocean Region (IOR). In this regard,Pakistan has also been constantly improving its ties with Sri Lanka, in allareas of bilateral importance, through the efforts mentioned in first (i) part of thequestion.

155. *Ms. Belum Hasnain:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource

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Development be pleased to state:(a) the names of the housing schemes/societies launched by the

Overseas Pakistanis Foundation so far alongwith the locationsthereof separately;

(b) the total plots in said housing societies/schemes;

(c) the name of persons to whom plots have been allotted in thesaid societies; and

(d) the names of persons whose allotments have been cancelled insaid societies?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment (Pir Syed Saddaruddin Shah Rashidi): (a)

——————————————————————————————Sr. Name of Scheme LocationNo.——————————————————————————————1. OPF Housing Scheme Phase-I, Raiwind Road Lahore

Lahore. (6 Km From Thokar Niaz Baig)

2. OPF Housing Scheme Gujrat Bhimber Road, 5 Km from GujratCity

3. OPF Housing Scheme, Larkana Naudero Road, Larkana

4. OPF Housing Scheme, Dadu Moro Road, Dadu

5. OPF Housing Scheme, Budhni Road 1.5 km from MotorwayPeshawar (M-1) Exit

6. OPF Housing Scheme, Main Mangla Mirpur Road, 5 KmChittarpari Mirpur (AJK) Phase- From MirpurI, II & III

7. OPF Housing Scheme, Zone – Japan Road, Zone-V, IslamabadV, Islamabad

——————————————————————————————

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——————————————————————————————Sr. Name of Scheme LocationNo.——————————————————————————————8. OPF Housing Scheme, Phase–I Raiwind Road Lahore (2 Km From

(Extension), Lahore Shoukat Khanam Hospital) AdjacentTo Phase-I Scheme

9. OPF Housing Scheme, Phase– Raiwind Road LahoreII Lahore (13 Km From Thokar Niaz Baig)

——————————————————————————————

(b) Details of Residential & Commercial plots of each scheme are givenbelow:—

——————————————————————————————S.No. Title of scheme / Location Category Plots Created——————————————————————————————1. OPF Housing Scheme, Raiwind Road Residential 1783

Lahore (Phase I) Commercial 93

2. OPF Housing Scheme, Raiwind Road, Residential 485Lahore (Phase-I) Extension Commercial 36.51 Kanal

3. OPF Housing Scheme, Gujrat Residential 210Commercial 66

4. OPF Housing Scheme, Dadu Residential 404Commercial 13

5. OPF Housing Scheme, Larkana Residential 430 Commercial 24

6. OPF Housing Scheme Peshawar Residential 741Commercial 74

7. OPF Housing Scheme Chittarpri Mirpur Residential 2880Commercial 187

——————————————————————————————

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——————————————————————————————S.No. Title of scheme / Location Category Plots Created——————————————————————————————8. OPF Housing Scheme Zone-V Islamabad Residential 2246

Commercial 100 Kanal

9. OPF Housing Scheme, Trubat, Residential 366Handed over to Government of Commercial 54Baluchistan in the year 1993.

——————————————————————————————

(c) Total Allottees: 9,117

List at Annex-A

(d) Total Cancelled Plots: 18

List at Annex-B


156. *Ms. Nighat Parveen Mir:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state theyear and country-wise bottled and canned milk imported during thelast three years alongwith the animals to which it was related?

Reply not received.

157. *Mr. Muhammad Jamal Ud Din:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state thesteps being taken by the Government to promote trade betweenAfghanistan and Pakistan?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Mr. Muhammad PervaizMalik): In order to enhance Pakistan’s trade with Afghanistan, the following stepshave been taken;

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A draft text Pakistan- Afghanistan Preferential Trade Agreement(PTA) has been shared with Afghan side through diplomatic channels,however, response is awaited.

Ministry of Commerce, through Trade Development Authority ofPakistan (TDAP) has planned an Afghanistan Pakistan Central AsianRepublics Trade Opportunities Conference in November, 2017. Thepurpose of the Conference is to provide a plateform to the privatesectors, policy makers and academia to share their ideas on waysand means to enhance Pakistan’s trade with Afghanistan and CARs.On the sidelines of the Conference, B2B and G2G meetings will alsobe held.

Import of fresh fruits from countries other than Afghanistan is currentlysubject to 20% Customs Duty (CD), 20% regularity duty and 1%additional customs duty. However, keeping in view the socioeconomic conditions in Afghanistan the import of fresh fruits fromAfghanistan is allowed at a reduced rate of only 10% CD underFifty Schedule to the Customs Act, 1959. Hence a significant tariffreduction (31 %) is already in place on import of frhsh fruits fromAfghanistan viz-a-viz other origins

To facilitate import of perishable goods, including fresh fruites fromAfghanistan dedicated staff has been posted for round the clockclearance of customs station Torkham. The same procedure has beenadopted at Kharlachi and Tank custom stations. Similarly forexpending clearance of fresh fruits from Afghanistan a decicaed lineis also in place at Custom House Chaman. However, due to securityrelated operations in the area, Ghulam Khan Cusotms Station ispresently not operainal.

158. *Shaikh Rohale Asghar:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state thesteps taken by the present Government to increase trade relationswith Senegal since June, 2013?

Reply not received.

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159. *Mr. Imran Zafar Leghari:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state theitem-wise details of Pakistan’s trade with China during the last fiveyears alongwith the value and quantity thereof?

Minister for Commerce and Textile Mr. Muhammad PervaizMalik): The total volume of trade between Pakistan and China in the last fiveyears is as under:

Value in US$ Millions——————————————————————————————

Year Imports Exports Total trade Trade balance——————————————————————————————

2012-13 6642.28 2609.38 9251.66 -4032.89

2013-14 7772.42 2416.99 10189.40 -5355.43

2014-15 10172.73 2126.85 12299.58 -8045.88

2015-16 12105.33 1669.59 13774.92 -10435.74

2016-17 14133.92 1463.30 15597.22 -12670.62

——————————————————————————————The major exports of Pakistan to China consists of cotton yarn, rice, raw

hides & skins, crude vegetable material, chemical material, fish and fish preparationsand crude minerals. Whereas, the major imports from China consists of machinery(all sorts) and its parts, manufactured fertilizer, chemical elements, yarn and threadof synthetic fiber iron and steel, chemical materials, vegetable and synthetic textilefiber, road vehicles and their parts, tyres and tubes of rubber. The item wise detailsof Pakistan’s trade with China (top hundred items) during the last five yearsalongwith value and quantity are at Annex-I.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

160. *Ms. Aisha Syed:(Transferred from 45th Session)


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(a) whether there is any proposal under consideration of theGovernment to establish new sports academies in the country;if so, the details thereof;

(b) the total number of persons who will get benefit therefrom; and

(c) the time by which said academies will be established?

Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (Mr. Riaz HussainPirzada): (a)

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Pakistan Cricket Board has already developed High Performance Centers(Academies) at Karachi and Multan. Moreover, PCB is also planning to developsuch High performance Centers in other regions in future.

Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).

Primarily, it is the responsibility of the concerned National SportsFederations to establish academies to develope and promote their respective sports.The Government/ PSB is making substantial efforts for National Sports’Federations by giving them financial, technical and administrative support withinits existing resources. However, presently, no such proposal is under considerationto establish new sports academies in the country.

(b) 200-300 junior and senior Cricket Players avail the facilities ofacademy and such number of players will also get the benefit after establishmentof any new academy.

(c) Upon finalization of plan, the work on establishment of Cricketacademies will be started.

161. *Mrs. Shahida Rehmani:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state the details ofkey appointments made for the Diplomatic Missions abroad sinceJune, 2013 alongwith the criteria adopted therefor?

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Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): Keyappointments since June, 2013 in Pakistan Missions abroad:

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Procedure/Criteria For Appointment Of Ambassadors /HighCommissioners

The Prime Minister has constituted a Committee for makingappropriate nominations of Ambassadors. The Committee consistsof Foreign Minister, Foreign Secretary and Secretary to the PrimeMinister.

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposes a panel of three (03) officersfor each Ambassadorial slot to the Committee. The criterion forselection of Ambassadors is seniority, suitability in terms of languageproficiency, regional expertise, diversity of experience, pastperformance and previous postings pattern of officers. TheCommittee, after detailed deliberations, recommends nominationsof Ambassadors to the Prime Minister for his approval through aSummary.

The appointment of contract Ambassadors i.e. officers other thanForeign Service of Pakistan is the prerogative of the Prime Minister/Head of Government, considering their competence, fitness,administrative experience and other professional capabilities. Thereis 20 percent quota reserved for non-career Ambassadors to beappointed in various Missions abroad.

162. *Dr. Mahreen Razaque Bhutto:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state:

(a) the annual labour force participation rate of Pakistan since01-01-2013; and

(b) whether it is a fact that said rate is below the world average of62 percent; if so, the reasons thereof?

Transferred to the Statistics Division for answer on Next Rota Day.

163. *Ms. Khalida Mansoor:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the names of countries except Afghanistan withwhich agreements of Free Trade have been signed by Pakistansince June, 2013; and

(b) the names of countries with which the agreements of FreeTrade to be signed in the near future?

Reply not received.

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164. *Dr. Shazia Sobia:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan be pleasedto state the total number of projects initiated in the Azad Jammu andKashmir for rural uplift of people since June, 2013 alongwiththe details thereof?

Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan (Mr. MuhammadBarjees Tahir): Almost 15000 projects costing around Rs. 8.000 billion forproviding basic amenities and rural infrastructure development were initiated fromFY 2013-14 in AJ&K under local Govt. and Rural Development sector for upliftof rural communities. The major targets achieved during the period under reportare detailed as under:—

Rural Water Supply Coverage increased from 46% to 56%.

0.800 million rural population provided clean drinking water supply.

700 KM fair weather roads and 300 KM metaled roads constructedfor better connectivity and provide farm to market communicationfacilities.

125 suspension and foot bridges repaired/constructed for rural access.

150 Play Grounds provided with Primary educational institutions.

1.000 million rural population provided sanitation facilities.

Since FY 2016-17 a special program for Community Infrastructurelaunched under which over 1500 small projects completed benefitingover 0.35 million population.

During CFY 2017-18 the program is being continued with higherallocation of Rs. 1.3 billion for similar intervention to raise the livingstandard of the rural population as well as socio economic uplift ofthe region.

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165. *Ms. Shakila Luqman:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the present status of trade relations of Pakistan with the UnitedStates of America; and

(b) the steps being taken by the Government to improve the saidrelations?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) United States of America (USA) is a major destination for Pakistan’s exports.Pakistan enjoys positive trade balance with USA. Total bilateral trade for the year2016-2017 was recorded at around 6 billion (USD). Details are given below.

Aggregate Bilateral Annual Trade with USA

Billion US$——————————————————————————————

Total TradeYears Exports Imports Trade Balance,

——————————————————————————————2013-14 3.70 1.75 5.45 +1.952014-15 3.69 1.78 5.47 +1.912015-16 3.49 1.77 5.26 +1.722016-17 3.40 2.60 6.00 -0.80

*——————————————————————————————Source: Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

*Source: Federal Board of Revenue

(b) Following steps have been taken by the Government to enhancetrade relations with US, with special focus on export promotion;

(1) Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA):

Pakistan and USA signed Trade and Investment Framework Agreement(TIFA) in the year 2003. Under this agreement both sides discuss issuesof mutual interest with the objective of improving cooperation andenhancing opportunities for trade and investment. The Agreement has also

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constituted a council comprising representatives of both countries, co-chaired by the Minister of Commerce, Government of Pakistan and TradeRepresentative of the US government (USTR). TIFA Council monitorstrade and investment relations, identifies opportunities for expanding trade,and so for 8 TIFA Council meetings have been held.

(A) Business Opportunities Conference

In order to identify trade and investment opportunities betweenPakistan and US. The Business Opportunities Conference (BOC) isorganized as government to government arrangement. So far fourBOCs have been held. The 5th Business Opportunities Conferenceis scheduled to be held in Pakistan and preparation for the successfulconduct of 5th BOC are underway.

(B) Pakistan US Generalized System of Preference:

Pakistan is a beneficiary of the US Generalized System of Preferences(GSP) program, which provides duty free access to over 3,500products. Sectors covered under the GSP include variousmanufactured items & inputs like Jewelry, various agriculturalproducts Chemicals, Minerals, Marble and Carpets. However theGSP scheme of US excludes market access to textiles and itsproducts. Ministry of Commerce, during the 8th TIFA Council meetingreiterated its request for grant of meaningful market access especiallyin the textile sector. On 1st July, 2017, the US Government hasincluded some items into GSP scheme like travel bags (leather), travelgoods (leather) of export interest to Pakistan.

(2) Joint Action Plan

On 23rd October, 2013, both sides agreed to expand trade and investmentflows and issued a Joint Statement including the instruction that seniorofficials should develop a Joint Action Plan to expand bilateral trade andinvestment over the next five years to be monitored under TIFA.

(3) GSP Outreach

Seminar to create awareness on Pak-US GSP was also organized on thesidelines of 8th TIFA Council Meeting in collaboration with the US side.

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Presentations by the officers of Ministry of Commerce and United StatesTrade Representative were made during the seminar, followed byinteractive discussion. Members from different chambers and associationsalso attended the seminar. Possible sectors with potential of tradeenhancement were discussed specially jewelry.

166. *Dr. Fouzia Hameed:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state thetargets fixed and achieved by the Ministry and its attached/sub-ordinate departments during the last four years for exploring newinternational markets and organizing exhibitions of Pakistani productsabroad?

Reply not received.

167. *Ms. Sajida Begum:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the names of countries from where Pakistan is importing silky/cotton thread at present; and

(b) the names of countries to whom Pakistan is exporting silky/cotton thread at present?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) During the last two years, Pakistan imported silky/cotton thread from thefollowing listed countries:

Afghanistan TurkeyChina JapanTaiwan TajikistanSri Lanka UzbekistanViet Nam BrazilU.S.A U.KIndia Others

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(b) During the last two years, Pakistan exported silky/cotton thread tothe following listed countries:

India Oman Netherlands

Iran Philippine U.S A

Italy Poland Sri Lanka

Japan Portugal Uganda

Jordan Qatar U.K

Kenya Saudi UAE

Arabia

Korea. R S. Africa Viet Nam

Malaysia Spain Ghana

Afghanistan Canada China

Australia Denmark Egypt

Bangladesh Cambodia Others

Cambodia

168. *Ms. Shamas Un Nisa:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the salient features of the Strategic Trade Policy Framework;and

(b) the targets achieved therefrom so far?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) Salient features of the Strategic Trade policy Framework (STPF) are as under:

1. Product Sophistication and Diversification.

• Research and Development• Brand & Certification. Development Support• Value Addition

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2. Market Access:

• Sustainability of the market• Exploring New Markets• Trade Diplomacy• Regionalism.

3. Institutional Development and Strengthening

• Capacity Building• New Institution

4. Trade Facilitation

• Reducing Cost of Doing Business• Standardization• Regulatory Amendments

(b) Target achieved:

1. Decisions regarding import regulations have been implemented videImport Policy Order SRO 345(I)/2016 dated 18th April, 2016,wherein necessary regulatory amendments have been incorporated.

2. Decision regarding export related measures have been implementedvide Export Policy Order SRO 344(I)/2016 dated 18th April, 2016incorporating all export related amendments.

3. Following Export Development Initiatives have been implemented:

i. Technology Up-gradation vide SRO No. 580(I)/ 2016 dated1st July, 2016

ii. Product Development vide SRO No. 578(I)1-2016 dated1st July, 2016

iii. Brand & Certification Development Support vide SRONo. 579(I)/2016 dated 1st July, 2016

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iv. Drawback of Local Taxes and Levies vide SRO No. 582(1)/2016dated 1st July, 2016

v. Plant and Machinery for Agro Processing SMEs vide SRONo. 581(1)/2016 dated 1st July, 2016

4. Placement of Intellectual Property Organization-Pakistan (IPO-P)in Ministry of Commerce.

169. *Ms. Asyia Naz Tanoli:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the names of those countries with which Pakistan has signedprofitable FTAs during the last four years; and

(b) the names of those countries with which Pakistan has signedprofitable PTAs during the said period?

Reply not received.

170. *Dr. Fouzia Hameed:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human ResourceDevelopment be pleased to state the targets fixed and achieved by theMinistry and its attached/sub-ordinate departments during the last fouryears for exploring new markets/prospects of employment abroad?

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resources Development(Mr. Syed Saddar-ud-Din Shah Rashidi): The Ministry adopts multiple strategiesfor the promotion of employment abroad. It includes convening of high level visits,signing of MoUs, taking part in the meetings of Joint Ministerial Commissions,posting of CWAs in manpower-import rich countries etc.

The Ministry has two departments i.e. Bureau of Emigration & OverseasEmployment and Overseas Employment Corporation which are working foremployment promotion abroad. The targets and achievements made by the bothdepartments during the last four years are as follows:

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——————————————————————————————Year Target Achievement

——————————————————————————————2013-14 651,700 670,3342014-15 701,700 844,3592015-16 751,500 982,4772016-17 851,200 594,952

——————————————————————————————The major reasons for not achieving the target for the fiscal year 2016-17

are as follows:

o The low oil prices have negatively affected the Gulf economiesespecially of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The Saudi Arabiaslashed its infrastructure and transport budget about 63% in 2016 ascompared to previous year. Pakistani manpower affected due todecrease in demand in the construction sector.

o The political situation in the Gulf region also contributed towardseconomic slowdown of their economies. Due to Yemen war, KSAfaced heavy expenditures in its defense budget.

o All GCC countries have introduced various programs and policiessuch as, Saudi Vision 2030, UAE’s Vision 2021 and Qatar’s NationalVision 2030 etc. Vision 2030, aimed at reducing the dependence onoil and creating a more productive native workforce.

o KSA has introduced a new tax on dependents of expatriates includingwife and children. The new tax will be 100 Saudi Riyals per dependentper month.

171. *Ms. Musarat Rafique Mahesar:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the year-wise leather products exported since 01-01-2012;

(b) the annual percentage of leather products out of total exportsduring the said period; and

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(c) the incentives given by the Government to protect leatherindustry during the said period?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) & (b) The year-wise leather products exported along with the percentageshare of leather products out of total exports since FY 2012 is as follows:

YEAR-WISE EXPORTS OF LEATHER PRODUCTS & % SHARE——————————————————————————————

Products 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017——————————————————————————————

Leathertanned 445.8 499.9 551.4 489.4 362.5 345.6

Leathergarments 341.0 378.0 406.1 366.7 320.6 291.9

Leathergloves 165.9 168.8 202.5 216.9 191.2 187.7

OtherLeathermanufactures 15.9 14.5 16.4 14.0 14.1 12.5

LeatherFootwear 18.6 20.3 20.0 21.1 20.2 14.1

—————————————————————————————————————Total 987.2 1,081.5 1,196.5 1,108.1 908.5 851.7

—————————————————————————————————————%Share intotal exports 4.18% 4.42% 4.77% 4.68% 4.37% 4.17%

—————————————————————————————————————

Value: USD Million

Source: Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

(c) The following incentives given by the Government to protect theleather industry during the said period:

i. Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approvedand Prime Minister of Pakistan has announced export package of PKR180 billion on the export of inter-alia leather sector, which is applicablefor nearly 18 months for the period from 16th January, 2017 to 30thJune, 2018. The rate of drawback on the leather sector is as under:-

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——————————————————————————————Estimated

Rate of Duty Annual FinancialSectors Drawback% Impact (Rs. Billion)

——————————————————————————————Leather

Manufacturers 7 4.2including garments

Leather tanned 5 5 1.9

Footwear 7 0.9——————————————————————————————

i. Under Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF), 2015-18, a totalof Rs. 6 billion is allocated for current year spent on the development.The initiatives inter-alia include:

a. Technology Up-gradation: An incentive for technology up-gradation in the shape of investment support of 20% and mark-up support of 50% upto a maximum of Rs. 1 (one) Million perannum per company for import of new plant and machinery.

b. Product Development: Matching grant upto a maximum ofRs. 5 (five) Million for specified plant and machinery or specifieditems to improve product design and encourage innovation inSMEs and export sectors of leather, pharmaceutical and fisheries.

c. Branding & Certification Development Support: Matchinggrant to facilitate the branding and certification for faster growthof the SME and export sector in Pakistan’s economy throughIntellectual Property Registration (including trade and servicemarks), Certification and Accreditation.

d. Draw-back for local taxes and levies (DLTL): DLTL isbeing given to exporters on free on board (FOB) values oftheir enhanced exports if increased by 10% and beyond (overlast year’s exports) at the rate of 4% on the increased exports.

ii. The Strategic Trade Policy Framework (2012-15) provided severalincentives to the Leather sector to protect and promote the industry,

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which included establishment of Leather Export Promotion Councilof Pakistan” (LEPC), mark up support for 2% and 2.5% lowerrates than the prevailing rate of Long Term Financing Facility (LTFF)and Export Finance Scheme (EFS) and duty drawbacks by specificpercentage for the imported inputs.

iii. Through active trade diplomacy, government is trying to get bettermarket access for local businesses in international markets byconcluding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential TradeAgreements (PTAs) with different countries. Pakistan’ leathergarments have concessional market access in European Union underGSP Plus.

iv. To promote and secure market share for leather and leather productsof Pakistan, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) isundertaking various export promotional activities through tradeexhibitions and delegations. In the fiscal year 2015-16, TDAP willparticipate in 12 international trade exhibitions related to leathersector. Besides, six fairs are allocated to Pakistan Tanners Association(PTA) and Pakistan Leather Garments Manufacturers and ExportersAssociation (PLGMEA) to promote leather sector. The total numberof international exhibitions participated by TDAP during the saidperiod (region-wise) is as under:

International exhibitions participated by TDAP for leather andleather products

——————————————————————————————2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

——————————————————————————————Europe 5 8 8 8 8

Asia (otherthan China) 2 - 3 3 3

China 2 4 4 4 4

America&Africa 2 3 3 3 3

——————————————————————————————Total 11 15 18 18 18

——————————————————————————————

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172. *Dr. Shazia Sobia:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state the prospectsof cordial relations of Pakistan with Maldives after visit made by theEx-Prime Minister of Pakistan to Maldives during the year 2017?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Khawaja Muhammad Asif): The visitof the former Prime Minister to Maldives on 25-27 July, 2017 provided impetusto further strengthen our bilateral relations with Maldives in all areas of mutualimportance including political, trade, economic, defence, tourism, education andpeople to people contacts. There has been substantial and tangible improvementin Pakistan—Maldives relations after the visit. The visiting Prime Minister wasgiven an unprecedented reception and coverage in the media. Pakistan’s imagehas improved visibly in Maldives.

2. Six (06) MOUs were signed during the visit with the aim of enhancingcooperation in the fields of tourism, climate change, trade, education, and civilservice cooperation and for capacity building of diplomats. In addition, JointWorking Committees were constituted to oversee the implementation of MOUssigned during the visit of President of Maldives to Pakistan in 2015.

3. A Joint Working Group for enhancement of trade was also formedbetween Commerce Ministries of the two countries to overcome existing challengesand hurdles faced by business community. Similarly, Maldives—Pakistan JointBusiness Council between the Ministry of Economic Development and theFederation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry was formed duringthe visit, which will promote business and investment relations of the two countries.It will lead to enhancement of volume of bilateral trade.

4. During the visit, the former Prime Minister announced US$ 5 millionas a special grant for the construction of medical college for the people of theMaldives. This Medical College will go a long way in furthering our positive imageas well/as increasing people to people contacts.

29. *Ms. Shagufta Jumani:

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state whetherthe Government is considering any extension of long term financefacility to support textile exports at large scale?

Reply not received.

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30. *Ms. Shagufta Jumani:


(a) the total number of trade attaches serving in various countriesat present alongwith the country/region-wise details thereof;

(b) the country/region-wise budget allocated therefor since June,2013; and

(c) the international trade increased by said attaches during thesaid period?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) There are 58 posts of Commercial Attaches in Pakistan’s Embassies andConsulates in 42 countries. Out of these, 53 commercial attaches/trade officersare at present serving at different stations; whereas 05 posts at Moscow, NewDelhi, Warsaw, Kuwait and Dushanbe are still vacant. Countries/Region wisedetails is given at Annex-I.

(b) The country/region-wise budget allocated since June, 2013, is at Annex-II.

(c) The bilateral trade volume with 42 countries where Pakistan has itscommercial presence, is placed at Annex-III.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library).

ISLAMABAD: JAWAD RAFIQUE MALIK,The 19th September, 2017. Secretary.

PCPPI—4284(2017) NA—19-09-2017—650.

1

(46th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Wednesday, the 20th September, 2017

40. Syed Waseem Hussain:(Transferred from 45th Session)


(a) the items for which Pakistan is trading with India and othercountries at present; and

(b) the details of trade made by Pakistan with India during the lastfour years?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):(a) Lists of items which Pakistan is trading with India and other countries areplaced at Annex-I and Annex-II.

(b) The trade figures between Pakistan and India for the last four yearare as follows:

Million US$——————————————————————————————

Years Exports Imports Total Trade——————————————————————————————

2012-13 327.496 1809.867 2137.3632013-14 408.365 2049.382 2457.7472014-15 358.082 1,699.65 2057.7362015-16 303.58 1779.60 2083.18

——————————————————————————————


41. Syed Waseem Hussain:(Transferred from 45th Session)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state thecountry-wise employees of the Ministry performing their duties toenhance trade since June, 2013 alongwith the details includingofficers, officials and domiciles thereof?

2

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):Country-wise detail of the officers of the Ministry of Commerce performing dutiessince 2013 is at Annex-I.

Country-wise detail of the officials of the Ministry of Commerce performingduties since 2013 is at Annex-II.


1. Mr. Siraj Muhammad Khan:(Defferred on 11-09-2017)

Will the Minister for Commerce and Textile be pleased to state thepresent status of the Expo Centre, Quetta?

Minister for Commerce and Textile (Mr. Muhammad Pervaiz Malik):The Government of Pakistan has allocated an amount of Rs. 100 million in PSDP2017-18 for the proposed project “Expo Centre, Quetta”. The project’s totalcost would be Rs, 2,500 million. PC-1 of the project has been submitted byMinistry of Commerce & Textile to Ministry of Planning, Development & Reformfor seeking its approval by the competent forum i.e. CDWP.

Government of Balochistan has committed to provide land for establishmentof Expo Centre at Quetta. The provincial Industries & Commerce Departmenthas proposed some sites for the project which are being examined by the FederalGovernment for selection of the most suitable one for the project.

11. Mr. Siraj Muhammad Khan:

Will the Minister for States and Frontier Regions be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that a number of letters have been written tothe Additional Chief Secretary, Federal Administered TribalAreas regarding dislocated persons/resettlement cases ofdislocated persons from Nowshera since 01-01-2016 by theMinistry; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that no action has been taken thereonso far; if so, the reasons thereof?

Reply not received.

ISLAMABAD: JAWAD RAFIQUE MALIK,The 19th September, 2017. Secretary.

PCPPI—4284(2017) NA—19-09-2017—650.

national assembly secretariat ———— “questions …activities through trade exhibitions and...

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