Prof Dr Shahida Wizarat,
President Independent Economists and Policy Practitioners.
The world including Pakistan is faced with the most horrendous situation which is going to adversely impact the economy and the lives and health of the populations. Most other countries are better equipped to deal with the situation due to educated populations, advancement in science and technology and government’s commitment to serve and protect their populations. In Pakistan all these attributes are absent. As a result the covid19 can take a heavy toll in terms of economic and human losses. The present action plan is an attempt to minimise these losses.
Formation of a national government comprising of honest, competent and patriotic Pakistanis who do not hold dual nationality or links with foreign governments and their establishments. Only such a government will ensure the interests of Pakistan and it’s people instead of the interests of foreign governments and the international financial system.
Declaration of economic emergency which will facilitate taking tough decisions.
Formulation of a debt management strategy that will ensure (a) no new loans are taken for debt servicing (b) ensuring the interest and wellbeing of the people of Pakistan is not sacrificed for debt servicing (c) debt servicing to be undertaken from the looted money transferred abroad by Pakistanis in banks and converted into real estate.
Use of barter trade and local currency instead of hard currency in international trade transactions.
Banning Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs ). This has become very important as GMOs have much lower nutrition content in addition to containing virus. Since it is of utmost importance to enhance the immune system of the population to fight covid19 any cereals, fruits and vegetables with lower nutrition content and loaded with virus is not an option.
Not accept any food aid from western countries and international agencies as it will be genetically modified.
Temporary ban on the import of luxury items like chocolates, cheese, juices, drinks, cars, consumer durables, phones, etc.
Temporary ban on the export of wheat, rice and other cereals from Pakistan to ensure adequate food supplies in the country.
Academic and operational linkages between CMHs, Civil and Jinnah hospitals, SIUT, Shifa International with Chinese hospitals with experience in covid19.
Securing the supply of ventilators, medicines, masks, medical apparel and shoes for doctors and paramedics from the Peoples Republic of China. And their safe keeping by joint armed forces and civilian administration staff.
Establishment of field hospitals by Chinese, Pakistani civilian and armed forces doctors and paramedics.