KARACHI, Oct 20: The Department of International Relations of the University of Karachi on Thursday held a seminar on the causes and implications of Oct 8 earthquake disaster on the campus.

Prof Fazal Ahmed, chairman of Quran-wa-Sunnah department of the KU said that the natural disaster carried a meaning for human beings which had to be properly deciphered. He said that the latest event of the earthquake could be considered as a divine warning, if not wrath.

He expressed the view that the event provided moment for both recanting and reforming and there had to be the beginning of a process by which people of the country could make concerted efforts to make themselves more God-fearing.

He also urged people for showing great perseverance and patience in the present crisis.

Prof Ather Ali Khan of the geology department of the KU highlighted the scientific reasons behind the earthquakes. He said that it occurred because earth released its energy in that way.

He said that the most essential questions which confront all were how, where and when it would take place.

Dr Moonis Ahmar of the department of internation relations discussed some possible political implications of the quake and mentioned that there had been a softening of positions regarding the line of control in order to mitigate the pain of the afflicted families.

He also talked about the international implications and said that Pakistan must ensure a continued acquisition of foreign aid. He referred to the reported administrative loopholes after the quake and stressed the need for developing a foolproof system in order to avoid any uncalled for damage in the future.

The seminar was organized under the programme of Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies of the Department of International Relations.