ISLAMABAD: US Defense and Air Attaché Col. Emanuel Joseph, who killed Pakistani Ateeq Baig with his vehicle, does not have absolute immunity, the Islamabad High Court ruled on Friday, a local daily reported.
In light of this, the court granted two weeks to the Interior Ministry to decide whether to place Joseph’s name on the Exit Control List (ECL).
Earlier, the ministry had blacklisted him and submitted a report to the court. Police officials in Islamabad had released Joseph, believing that he had diplomatic immunity under the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
On April 7, he ran a red light and hit a motorcycle in the federal capital, killing Baig and injuring another person. On April 20, the government decided not to place Joseph’s name on the ECL.
But the deceased’s father filed a petition with the court pleading for Joseph’s name to be placed on the list.
US attaché does not have absolute immunity — Islamabad High Court
US attaché does not have absolute immunity — Islamabad High Court
- Interior Ministry granted two weeks to decide whether to place Col. Joseph’s name on Exit Control List
- On April 7, Air Attaché Col. Emanuel Josephan a red light and hit a motorcycle in the federal capital, killing Ateeq Baig and injuring another person
Pakistan Pavilion inaugurated at Sharjah International Book Fair
- Pavilion features Pakistani publishers showcasing literary and cultural heritage
- Consul General urges community and visitors to support Pakistan’s publishing industry
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan inaugurated its national pavilion at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair on Tuesday, marking the country’s participation in one of the world’s largest literary exhibitions as it seeks to highlight its publishing heritage, cultural traditions, and contemporary creative output.
The Sharjah International Book Fair is one of the largest book fairs in the Middle East and Asia, drawing hundreds of publishers, writers, scholars, students, and cultural organizations from across the region and beyond. Pakistan’s participation is seen as part of its efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy and expand the international visibility of its literary and publishing sectors.
The Pakistan pavilion, located in Hall 6 – Stand N1 at the Sharjah Expo Center, features several well-known Pakistani publishing houses, including Qudrat Ullah Publications (noted for its printed editions of the Qur’an), Zia-ul-Qur’an Publications, and Paramount Books.
Inaugurating the pavilion, Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, welcomed the participation of Pakistani publishers and exhibitors.
“Such platforms provide an excellent opportunity to highlight the diverse literary traditions, cultural richness, and creative potential of Pakistan,” he was quoted as saying in a statement by the Pakistan Press Information Department.
The Consul General also conveyed appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, noting his “visionary efforts in promoting art, culture, literature, and academic excellence” in the emirate and internationally.
During his visit, the Consul General toured several official pavilions, including those representing Saudi Arabia, Oman, Sharjah Government institutions, and Abu Dhabi.
He also commended Sarmad Khan of Urdu World Books for establishing a dedicated stall promoting Pakistani literature, and encouraged the Pakistani community in the UAE, visitors, and students to attend and engage with the pavilion’s offerings.
The book fair will continue at the Sharjah Expo Center through the coming week.
