World’s largest Quranic contest set to begin in Makkah with record global participation

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:20 PM

By Rehan Khan

MAKKAH, August 08 (APP): The 45th King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorizing, Reciting, and Interpreting the Holy Quran will commence on Saturday under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Organized and overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the prestigious event will be hosted at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, drawing contestants from a record 128 countries – the highest number of participating nations since the competition’s launch in 1399 AH.

This milestone underscores the contest’s global stature and leadership in the realm of Quranic excellence.

Recognized as one of the world’s most esteemed Quranic competitions, the event reflects Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to fostering Quranic programs, strengthening its international role in serving the Holy Quran, and advancing its civilizational mission of promoting goodness, tolerance, and moderation.

FPAHS issues Roll No. Slips for Diploma Exams

NNPS Desk

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:20 PM

PESHAWAR, Aug 08 (APP): The Faculty of Paramedical and Allied Health Sciences (FPAHS) has announced that roll number slips for the Diploma Course Examination August 2025 have been uploaded to the FPAHS Web Portal and can be downloaded by respective institutes.

All students have been advised to collect their slips directly from their institutions.

According to details, over 37,000 students from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will appear in the examinations, scheduled to be held from August 21 to 29 in 23 different categories.

The examination will be conducted in 49 halls throughout the province under the supervision of Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Rehman Afridi.

Around 400 staff members will be deployed for smooth conduct of the exams, while police will be stationed at all examination halls to ensure security.

Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Rehman Afridi said that a Control Room has been set up in the Faculty, adding that there will be zero tolerance for any form of chatting during the examinations.

He said strict monitoring teams will be present in all halls to ensure discipline.

“Shaam-e-Moseeqi” echoes with patriotism and culture at PNCA

Asif Jalal

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:13 PM

ISLAMABAD, Aug 08 (APP): In a powerful celebration of Pakistan’s cultural identity and artistic legacy, the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) hosted a mesmerizing cultural evening titled “Shaam-e-Mauseeqi” to mark Independence Day.

The event brought together some of the finest classical music voices of the subcontinent, offering a soulful tribute to the nation’s musical heritage.

Held in a packed auditorium, the evening resonated with the timeless charm of classical melodies and literary expression, creating a deeply emotional and patriotic ambiance.

The presence of Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, as chief guest added to the event’s stature.

"Shaam-e-Moseeqi" echoes with patriotism and culture at PNCA

Speaking on the occasion, the minister said that his ministry is pursuing a comprehensive agenda to give recognition to the artist community by providing them meaningful platforms to showcase their talent.

He lauded the performers for their dedication to preserving and promoting traditional music, calling it a vital part of Pakistan’s cultural identity.

PNCA Director General Mr. Ayub Jamali also applauded the performers, highlighting the council’s ongoing efforts to revive classical arts and nurture emerging talent.

The night featured acclaimed classical vocalists Roshan Abbas Khan, Ghulam Abbas Khan, and Nadeem Riaz Malik, who captivated the audience with their spellbinding performances.

Their powerful vocals, deep command over classical mauseeqi, and soulful expressions left the audience mesmerized.

Many visitors praised the event as a refreshing cultural experience. “It was a soul-touching evening. Events like these remind us of the depth and richness of our musical roots,” said Farzana Ahmed, a music enthusiast and regular attendee of PNCA events.

Another guest, Asim Raza shared, “Such performances are rare these days. It felt like we were transported to another world through their voices.”

Cultural evenings like Shaam-e-Mauseeqi play a crucial role in promoting harmony, creativity, and national pride, especially among the youth. As Pakistan continues to progress, preserving and promoting its diverse artistic traditions remains essential to strengthening its social and cultural identity.

With Shaam-e-Mauseeqi, PNCA not only celebrated the country’s 78th Independence Day, but also reignited appreciation for classical music—a cultural treasure that continues to inspire pride and unity among Pakistanis.

Chairman PPP Bilawal condoles with PM Shehbaz on cousin’s demise

NNPS Desk

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:09 PM

66535 — Islamabad : Chairman Pakistan People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, on 8 August, 2025.

ISLAMABAD, Aug 8 (APP): Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday to offer condolences on the passing of the Prime Minister’s cousin, Mian Shahid Shafi.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed heartfelt condolences to the prime minister, prayed for the departed soul’s elevation in ranks, and for patience and strength for the bereaved family, a Prime Minister’s Office news release said.

Senator Sherry Rehman and Member of the National Assembly Asifa Bhutto-Zardari accompanied Chairman Bilawal during the meeting.

In a separate gesture, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also contacted the elder brother of the deceased, Javed Shafi, via telephone to extend his condolences.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for Public Affairs Unit Rana Mubashir Iqbal, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, Minister of State for National Food Security & Research Malik Rasheed Ahmad Siddiqui, Minister of State for Power Division Abdur Rehman Kanju, MNA Saira Afzal Tarar, Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmad Khan, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Talha Burki.

Rana Tanveer holds meeting with Jahangir Piracha on fertilizer availability, pricing

Asif Jalal

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:08 PM

66531 — Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research Rana Tanveer Hussain meeting with CEO of Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited (FFCL) Jahangir Piracha to discuss fertilizer availability, pricing, and quality in Islamabad on August 8, 2025.

ISLAMABAD, Aug 08 (APP): Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain Friday held a meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited (FFCL) Jahangir Piracha.

During the meeting, they discussed a wide range of issues related to the fertilizer sector, with a special focus on ensuring its uninterrupted supply to farmers across the country, said a news release.

The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding farmers’ interests and ensuring the timely availability of fertilizers at reasonable prices before the upcoming cropping seasons.

Rana Tanveer urged FFCL to take all necessary measures to make fertilizers easily accessible for farmers, especially in remote areas, and to maintain quality standards in line with national requirements.

He further stressed the importance of preventing hoarding and black marketing, which disrupt market stability and burden the farming community.

The minister highlighted that the agricultural sector is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and any disruption in fertilizer supply directly impacts crop yields and food security.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to work closely with industry stakeholders to improve the supply chain, encourage domestic production, and explore policy reforms to make the sector more efficient and farmer-friendly.

Jahangir Piracha assured the minister of FFCL’s full cooperation with government policies and reiterated the company’s commitment to fulfilling farmers’ needs in a timely and affordable manner.

The meeting concluded with an understanding to strengthen public-private collaboration for the sustainable growth of the agriculture sector and to ensure that farmers are provided with quality inputs for better productivity and profitability.

Workers tie and pack bundles of printed Pakistani flag buntings to be used in preparations for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations across the country

Khuram Maryam

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:05 PM

APP44-080825 LAHORE: August 08 – Workers tie and pack bundles of printed Pakistani flag buntings to be used in preparations for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations across the country. APP/MTF/ABB/SSH

Romania, Pakistan to strengthen ties in Science, Technology and Innovation

NNPS Desk

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:04 PM

ISLAMABAD, Aug 08 (APP): Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan Dan Stoenescu has reaffirmed Romania’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Pakistan in science, technology, education, and innovation, recognising Pakistan’s progress in digital transformation, artificial intelligence.

The Ambassador said in a meeting with the Honourable Pakistani Federal Minister of Science and Technology, Khalid Hussain Magsi.

As an important member of the European Union, Romania offers Pakistani partners access to flagship EU-funded initiatives such as Horizon Europe (€95.5 billion for research and innovation, 2021–2027), Erasmus+ (education, training, and academic exchange), and the Digital Europe Programme. These platforms open opportunities for joint projects in AI, renewable energy, cybersecurity, green technologies, agriculture, and space applications.

Romania is one of Europe’s fastest-growing IT and innovation hubs, contributing over 6% to GDP and employing more than 200,000 professionals, he said adding that the country is recognised for its highly skilled software engineers, competitive costs, and expertise in cybersecurity, fintech, AI, cloud solutions, blockchain, and automotive software. Global tech leaders such as Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, and Oracle operate R&D and service centres in Romania, alongside thriving local companies exporting worldwide.

The Ambassador said the Romania has produced globally recognised unicorns (startups valued over USD 1 billion), including UiPath (robotic process automation), Bitdefender (cybersecurity), Elrond (blockchain), and FintechOS (financial technology). Its dynamic tech hubs in Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, Brasov, and Bucharest combine strong academic institutions with vibrant startup ecosystems and innovation parks.

Potential cooperation opportunities between Romania and Pakistan span a wide range of high-impact areas. These include establishing joint ventures in software development targeting both EU and Gulf markets, fostering cybersecurity collaboration through specialised training, certification, and digital forensics, and launching exchange programs between Romania’s dynamic tech hubs and Pakistan’s National Incubation Centers to stimulate start-up growth.

Both countries can also engage in joint research projects in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and blockchain technologies under EU frameworks such as Horizon Europe and Digital Europe, while advancing partnerships in e-government solutions and the digital transformation of public services to improve efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.

To advance this agenda, ambassador Stoenescu explored the potential signing a Memorandum of Understanding between Pakistan’s Ministry of Science and Technology and Romania’s National Authority for Digitalization and National Authority for Research, as well as organising a Romania–Pakistan Science & Technology Forum with a strong focus on the IT industry.

Manufacturing sector revival key to economic growth: SAPM Haroon

Asif Jalal

Fri, 8 Aug 2025, 8:04 PM

ISLAMABAD, Aug 08 (APP): Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Haroon Akhtar Khan on Friday emphasized that every possible effort would be made to facilitate the manufacturing sector, as its revival is essential for promoting economic activity, creating jobs, and increasing exports.

Chairing a meeting of the sub-committees on the restoration of sick industrial units and ease of access to credit under Pakistan’s Industrial Policy, Haroon said export-based growth is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic strategy, said a news release.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Pakistan Banking Association, Ministry of Finance, Pakistan Business Council, Chambers of Commerce, and the State Bank of Pakistan.

The SAPM Haroon emphasized that any industry failing to repay loans, closed for more than 12 months, inactive, or operating at less than 30% of its capacity, is considered a sick unit.

The committee proposed that the SBP should issue an easy framework for the revival of sick industrial units. This framework would include principal haircut options, options for tenor extension, adjustments in interest rates, and easier access to fresh working capital.

Additionally, banks would be provided with incentives and protection from audits for voluntarily participating in the restoration of sick units.

The committee also proposed revival linked credit schemes by introducing sales tax duty linked loan scheme, and treat fresh lending for revival.

Furthermore, the committee recommended the establishment of a National Industrial Revival Commission, which would focus on classifying sick industrial units, creating tailored recovery plans, and ensuring coordination for financial and regulatory support.

A digital portal would be established to address issues faced by sick industrial units, with representatives from the Ministry of Industries, Ministry of Finance, State Bank, and SMEDA participating in the commission.

The committee also proposed that banks prominently display all export finance products on their websites.

Credit provision for SMEs was also under consideration, alongside measures to support the manufacturing sector.

Haroon Akhtar Khan directed the Ministry of Industries and the SBP to collaborate with banks in developing a long-term financing policy at a fixed rate to be finalized soon.