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IRSA releases 113,600 cusecs water

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Friday released 113,600 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 178,100 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1448.73 feet and was 34.73 feet higher than its dead level of 1,398 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 30,800 cusecs and 5,000 cusecs respectively.
The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1142.65 feet, which was 92.65 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 63,700 cusecs and 25,000 cusecs respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa, Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 43,000, 56,000, 58,800 and 19,800 cusecs respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 63,800 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 11,300 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.

At 26th WEC, envoy highlights Pakistan’s viewpoint on climate change strategy

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): Ambassador of Pakistan to The Netherlands Suljuk Mustansar Tarar on Friday attended the 26th World Energy Congress held in the city of Rotterdam and represented Pakistan at the High-Level Roundtable on climate change, energy security, and clean energy transition.

The World Energy Congress is the world’s longest-established energy event, having shaped the global energy agenda for a century. This is the only global energy event convening over 200 speakers and 70 plus ministers, alongside over 7,000 international energy stakeholders. The four-day event bridged sectors, geographies, generations and systems to make faster, fairer, and more far-reaching energy transitions happen.

Ambassador Tarar shared Pakistan’s viewpoint on collective strategy to tackle climate change and highlighted Pakistan’s policy frameworks like the National Electric Vehicle Policy, and Alternate and Renewable Energy Policy, said a press release.

He also met Deputy Prime Minister Rob Jetten of The Netherlands and CEO and Secretary General of World Energy Congress Dr. Angela Wilkinson.

In the meeting, he discussed exploring opportunities for technical expertise and collaboration to drive Pakistan’s energy transition forward.

ICT admin conducts operation against encroachments, illegal activities

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): Assistant Commissioner (AC) Industrial Area, Farwa Batool accompanied by the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) conducted anti-encroachment operation at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and removed all illegal encroachments around the hospital.

Talking to APP, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration Spokesman, Dr Abdullah Tabassum said that on the directives of the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon, the authority was conducting extensive operations targeting encroachments, illegal gas canning, and cleanliness issues in Federal Capital.

In a recent operation conducted at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), he said the AC removed all illegal encroachments and structures blocking public pathways were demolished in the area.

The AC also inspected the canteens and tuck shops of the hospital, focusing on cleanliness standards, pricing, and the use of plastic bags. After these inspections, she issued fines totaling Rs 23,000 for various violations and warned businesses to comply with regulations.

In another part of the operation, Dr Abdullah said the district administration teams targeted illegal gas cylinder filling activities in the G-8 area. Four LPG shops in the area were found in the unlawful canning of gas cylinders, posing a safety risk. These shops were immediately sealed to prevent further illegal activity, he said.

He said the Islamabad administration’s efforts were part of a broader campaign to crack down on various violations in the city. Daily operations were being carried out to combat encroachments, rising prices, and professional begging, he added.

On the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon urged the residents and businesses to adhere to city regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to a safer, cleaner Islamabad.

Margalla Trail Patrol launched to ensure hikers’ safety

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): In a bid to ensure the safety of hikers, especially foreigners, in Margalla Hills, the government has launched the Margalla Trail Patrol.
In a post on X, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi made the announcement, saying that Margalla Trail Patrol will comprise trail bikes, horse patrols, and foot patrols, providing a comprehensive security cover for hikers, PTV News reported.
The move comes after the Wildlife Department confirmed the presence of five leopards in the area, leading to the closure of hiking trail 3.
The Interior Minister stated that the launch of the patrol is especially aimed at ensuring the safety of foreigners who frequent the trails.
“We want to promote tourism in the region and ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience,” he said.
The civil administration has warned hikers to be cautious and avoid traveling alone in the area.
The launch of the Margalla Trail Patrol is part of the government’s efforts to promote tourism and ensure public safety in the region.

Balochistan most affected by climate change, says Bugti

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QUETTA, April 26 (APP): Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said Balochistan is the most affected by climate change as the heavy rains and floods in 2022 caused a heavy financial loss reported in the province.
The international community has pledged 2.6 billion dollars for rehabilitation activities in the flood-affected areas, Sarfraz Bugti said this through video link in a meeting of Chief Ministers of the four provinces on climate change held under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
In the meeting, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Environment Naseem ur Rehman and Secretary Environment Nadeem Khan also participated.
Sarfraz Bugti said the commitment announced by the global community for the rehabilitation of flood victims of Balochistan has not yet fulfilled.
He urged the federal government to take the provinces on board for policy and decision-making related to combat climate change. The CM has proposed in the meeting to formulate a sub-committee for effective consultation with the provinces to cope affects of climate change.
Sarfraz Bugti said that fee structure should be decided on the basis of the needs of the provinces.
The government of Balochistan will follow the guideline decided by mutual consultation to deal with the challenges of climate change.

No political prisoner in country at present: Senator Siddiqui

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): Parliamentary Leader of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PMLN) in the Senate Irfan-ul-Haque Siddiqui on Friday said there was no political prisoner in the country at present while the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder was behind the bars for being convicted in various cases.

Taking part in the debate on the presidential address in the Upper House, Senator Siddiqui said in past the PML-N leadership had to face imprisonment in fake cases, but its government did not want to pursue the politics of revenge.

He extended an olive branch to the opposition parties, saying that if the PTI could hold negotiations with its traditional political rivals then why it could not sit on the table with the government for the sake of the country.

“The opposition should hold talks with the treasury benches for resolving critical issues and crises of the country. It should pinpoint problems and issues of national interest , and also suggest their solutions. At the same, they should bear criticism with open hearts as it is part of debate and discourse and political norms,” he added.

Senator Siddiqui condemned intimidation of the judiciary in the past and also in the prevailing time.

He felicitated Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani on assuming the office, hoping that constructive debates would be held on the national matters in the House under chairmanship.

He praised President Asif Ali Zardari for his address to the Joint Sitting of the Parliament in which he encompassed on national issues.

He said the president had urged all the political parties to play their vital role for the bright future of the nation and bring out the country from all crises.

“Currently, the country is facing many challenges at international level, so all political parties should shun their differences and instead of point scoring should work unitedly for the betterment of the state and its citizens.”.

IPRI, ILA Italy ink MoU on cooperation in international law development

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): The Italian Branch of the International Law Association (ILA Italy) and the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) Friday signed a General Agreement for Cooperation to promote cooperation, information exchange and academic programs between the two Institutions on issues pertaining to understanding and development of international law.
This strategic alliance marks a significant step towards leveraging complementary expertise and resources to address pressing international legal challenges and advance innovative solutions, a news release said issued here.
The agreement aims to enhance the scientific and academic level of both Institutions, promote friendship and understanding between the Italian and Pakistani academics and policymakers, and facilitate collaboration in research and analysis on international law.
The agreement outlines various forms of cooperation, including mutual research programs, exchange of publications and materials, scholar exchange for conferences and seminars, and collaboration on academic programs.
Both the organisations are eager to commence joint activities under the agreement and are confident that this partnership will yield valuable outcomes for legal and policy stakeholders in both Countries.
IPRI is one of the oldest non-partisan think-tanks focusing on all facets of National Security including international relations and law, strategic studies, governance and public policy and economic security in Pakistan.
Established in 1999, IPRI is affiliated with the National Security Division (NSD), Government of Pakistan.
Established in 1925 as the Italian Branch of the International Law Association (ILA), ILA Italy intends to promote the study and development of international law, both public and private, and the respect for the legal system.
Among other initiatives, it is worth mentioning the establishment of the National Study Group on the identification of customary international law (coordinated by Prof. A. Tanzi) at the invitation of the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations. Its contribution has been acknowledged by the International Law Commission.

Bilawal wants students to have access to all facilities: Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah

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KARACHI, Apr 26 (APP): Sindh Minister for Culture, Tourism, Antiquities and Archives, Sindh, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah has said that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari wanted our libraries to be modern and equipped with the latest books, where students in Sindh could have access to all facilities,.

He expressed these views while presiding over a meeting of the Directorate of Public Libraries, Sindh here Friday.

DG Libraries Sindh Ejaz Sheikh while briefing the minister, said that there were currently 44 public libraries in all six divisions of Sindh and due to a large number of students and book readers, the libraries needed to be expanded.

He said that due to no recruitment since 2013, 419 out of 645 posts from grade 1 to 19 were still vacant, so the Directorate of Public Libraries was facing a severe staff shortage.

He briefed that for the convenience of the readers, more than 100 million books were available on the e-library portal, from where readers can study their favorite books at any time and from anywhere.

The provincial minister said, our intentions are good and firmed and I will soon visit all libraries to review public facilities and modern books. He warned that any kind of falsehood, wrong briefing, or excuse related to public interest would not be tolerated.

On this occasion, DG Libraries Sindh Ejaz Sheikh, Directors of Libraries Muhammad Arshad Patoli, Ghulam Sarwar Channer, Bashir Baloch, Shabbir Leghari, Abdul Majid Kluoi, and Assistant Directors Gul Muneer Jirawar, Javed Iqbal, Sheraz Sheikh and others were also present.

PRCS Chairman, Moroccan envoy discuss humanitarian relations

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): Chairman Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari held a courtesy meeting with Moroccan Ambassador Mohammed Karmoune at the Embassy of Morocco, signifying a pivotal moment in the humanitarian relationship between Pakistan and Morocco.
The meeting marked a significant juncture in the humanitarian partnership between Pakistan and Morocco, emphasizing their shared commitment to aid and disaster management.
Chairman Laghari emphasized on the substantial partnership between the two nations in addressing humanitarian challenges.
During the discussions, Chairman Laghari provided insights into the ongoing programs and projects of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to serving vulnerable communities nationwide.
He underscored the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in effectively addressing humanitarian crises, expressing gratitude for Morocco’s past participation in PRCS-organized events such as the International Donors Conference.
Chairman Laghari specifically emphasized PRCS’s anticipation of support from the Government of Morocco, especially in the recovery phase following the devastating Monsoon 2022 floods.
He also expressed a strong desire to enhance cooperation, particularly with the Moroccan government and the Moroccan Red Cross, and other humanitarian organizations aligned with the Red Crescent mandate, aiming to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable communities in Pakistan.
Chairman Laghari extended an invitation to   Ambassador Mohammed Karmoune to visit the PRCS National Headquarters, which was graciously accepted.
Ambassador Mohammed Karmoune expressed gratitude to Chairman Laghari for the comprehensive information and insights provided regarding disaster management during the floods, noting the impressive execution.
He commended the Pakistan Red Crescent Society for its relentless efforts, led by Chairman Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari, in providing assistance to those in need, especially during times of crisis.
The Moroccan Ambassador pledged to facilitate Chairman Laghari’s visit to Morocco, arranging meetings with counterparts from the Moroccan Red Cross and heads of humanitarian organizations.
The aim is to investigate opportunities for collaboration and address any gaps in interventions, such as shelter, livelihood, health, and cash assistance, being carried out by PRCS during the recovery phase.
He recognized the indispensable role of humanitarian organizations like PRCS in mitigating human suffering and promoting resilience within communities.
Concluding the meeting, Chairman Laghari presented a memento to Ambassador Mohammed Karmoune, along with a souvenir, symbolizing the spirit of humanitarian collaboration.

Defence Minister leads Pakistan’s delegation to Kazakhstan SCO moot

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 26 (APP): Federal Minister for Defence & Defence Production Khawaja Muhammad Asif is leading the Pakistan delegation to Kazakhstan for the annual meeting of the Defence Ministers of member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
The meeting reviewed the regional security issues, including the defence cooperation initiatives, a news release said.
The Defence Minister also held meetings with the defence ministers of the friendly countries of the SCO to discuss issues of bilateral defence cooperation.
Various areas of mutual interest including respective regional security, counter terrorism, Afghanistan situation and review of national security priorities, extremist threats, border management and maritime security were also deliberated upon.
Minister of Defence stated that Pakistan is deeply concerned about the escalating situation in Gaza. Pakistan has consistently advocated for a just, comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian question anchored in international law and in line with relevant United Nations resolutions.
He also said that Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the SCO platform. “I would reiterate that Pakistan takes great pride in our partnership with SCO and are fully committed to further deepening and expanding this association”, said the Minister for Defense while addressing the forum.