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EU Ambassador calls on PM Shehbaz

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):Ambassador of the European Union Riina Kionka Thursday paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and discussed matters related to mutual concern.
The prime minister thanked the EU leaders for their congratulatory messages on his re-election and said he looked forward to working closely with the EU.
He said Pakistan enjoyed friendly and cordial ties with the EU and expressed satisfaction at the existing institutional mechanisms that were meeting regularly to exchange views on further strengthening cooperation.
The prime minister appreciated, in particular, EU’s continued support to Pakistan through the GSP Plus scheme, which has now been renewed till 2027.
He also expressed Pakistan’s interest in engaging constructively with the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy through the European Investment Bank.
The prime minister sought EU’s support in providing consultancy and expertise to help Pakistan carry out important reforms in various sectors.
The EU Ambassador briefed the prime minister on various cooperation initiatives, including the ongoing dialogue on migration and mobility issues between the two sides, as well as facilitating European businesses operating in Pakistan.
Progress on resumption of flights from Pakistan to EU countries was also discussed.

CDA to start free Yoga classes for Islamabad residents

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP): The Sports and Culture Department of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) plans to launch complimentary yoga sessions for Islamabad residents at the Multipurpose Ground in Sector F-6 Markaz and Mehran Gate near Baradri in F-9 Park, from May 2.
Yoga classes will be divided into two shifts: morning sessions, which will run from 6 am to 8 am, and evening sessions, scheduled from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. People of all ages, both males and females, can participate in these classes free of cost.
In addition, the Department of Sports and Culture will be commencing coaching classes for basketball, lawn tennis, and futsal specifically designed for children under 16 years of age at Sector F-6 Markaz, Multipurpose Ground, and Sector G-11 Multipurpose Ground.
In consideration of citizen welfare, the Sports and Culture Wing has released helpline numbers 051-9201607 and 0331-5181508, aiming to ensure citizens encounter no obstacles.
Furthermore, the CDA places great importance on offering healthy pursuits to citizens, particularly youth, as a top institutional priority.
While tirelessly striving to provide optimal citizen services, the CDA is equally committed to fostering wholesome activities.

Meeting reviews anti-dengue measures

By
Ali Ali
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0
BAHAWALPUR, Apr 18 (APP):Additional Deputy Commissioner Headquarters Sumera Rabbani chaired a meeting of the District Emergency Response Committee held in the committee room of the DC office to discuss anti-dengue measures.
The meeting reviewed the actions taken from March 25 to April 15 regarding combating dengue.
DHO Dr. Zeeshan Rauf, District Focal Person Dr. Qudsia Anwar, AMS Bahawal Victoria Hospital Dr. Ijaz Rasool, DMS Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi Hospital Bahawalpur Dr. Gulnaz, Entomologists, officers from relevant departments, and focal persons, along with Assistant Commissioners from tehsils via video link.
The Additional Deputy Commissioner Headquarters emphasized the need to ensure the effective implementation of preventive measures against dengue.
It was instructed to enhance further improvements in the ongoing activities and raise awareness among the public to stay safe from dengue. Surveillance for dengue larvae should be conducted regularly.
Teams formed for indoor and outdoor anti-dengue efforts should work actively in the field, ensuring 100 percent coverage of hotspots for dengue larval growth. Legal actions should be taken against those who fail to comply with preventive measures against dengue.
The actions taken by institutions to anti-dengue measures were reviewed, and the individual performances of focal persons were evaluated.
During the meeting, District Focal Person Dr. Qudsia Anwar briefed that from January 1 to April 15, a total of 1631 suspected dengue cases have been reported throughout the district, with 6 confirmed cases of dengue, some of whom traveled from other cities.
It was further mentioned that during the surveillance period from March 25 to April 15, dengue larvae were found at 5 locations.
Effective measures are being taken to eradicate dengue larvae. It was reported that there are 1795 hotspots for dengue across the district, with 100 percent coverage ensured. They mentioned that in district, 412 indoor and outdoor teams are actively engaged in anti-dengue activities.

Country prepared to become tech hub: Shaza Fatima

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Apr 18 (APP):State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Thursday said that the country was prepared to become regional tech hub and IT leader.
She said this while addressing a press conference along with Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) Secretary General Deemah Al Yahya at a local hotel.
She said, “Youth is our asset and we have strong connectivity,” adding that Pakistan had partners like Saudi Arabia and other countries which wanted to strengthen this sector.
The State Minister said that recently Saudi Arabia foreign minister and representative of Investment Ministry visited Pakistan, adding that country’s IT sector was also highlighted during meetings with the delegation from Saudi Arabia.
She further said that Digital Foreign Direct Investment conference would be organized at the end of this year, adding that World Economic Forum, Digital Cooperation Organization and Pakistan would host conference every year to bring investment in the country for IT sector,  manufacturing, software and telecommunication sides as well.
She further said that these initiatives and the policies of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif aimed at supporting private sector would yield positive results to put the country on road to progress.
Shaza Fatima said that the incumbent government was working on various policies and legislation whether it was related to data protection, cyber security, cloud policy to create feasible environment for growth of IT, tech and telecom sectors.
She said, “Pakistan is a founding member of Digital Cooperation Organization and it is multilateral organization made with the cooperation of Saudi Arabia and its purpose is to take digital cooperation at global level.”
She said that today ITCN Asia had started in Pakistan and it was a three days conference and more than 600 companies were participating in it. She said that more than 100 delegates had arrived in Pakistan to attend this conference, adding that almost more than 55,000 people would visit Expo Centre to experience this conference.
Shaza said that Ministry of Information and Technology along with Pakistan Software Export Board was sponsoring this programme.
This initiative was giving a message that how Pakistan could showcase its private sector at international level to attract foreign investment, she said.
She said that it was also telling the world that how Pakistan could boost IT exports by using expertise of its youth.
Digital Cooperation Organization Secretary General Deemah Al Yahya said, “Whenever I come to Pakistan I see energy, talent and determination to achieve impossible targets,” adding that most prominent thing was collaboration between government, private sector and civil society.
Deemah said, “We as Digital Cooperation Organization are proud to be here today,” adding that event like ITCN helped share ideas and discuss opportunities to get desired results.
Responding to a question, Shaza Fatima said that no doubt interaction of B2B companies and educational institutes was very important.
She said that development of country’s human resource capital could definitely yield positive results.
To another query, the State Minister said that country was heading towards economic and political stability, adding that that recent visit of high powered delegation from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan was proof of it.
She said the government would provide financial and technical support to youngsters so that they could become entrepreneurs and create jobs opportunities for others.
To another question, Shaza Fatima said the Prime Minister had nominated a task force for artificial intelligence, adding that first centre of excellence related to artificial intelligence was made 10 years back. She said that artificial intelligence was integrated in almost everything.
Regarding social media ban, she said, “We do not support any ban but as far is national security is relevant it is of prime importance.”

Rain/Thundershowers forecast in various areas of Balochistan during next 24 hours

By
Ali Ali
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0
QUETTA Apr 18 (APP):Regional Meteorological Center of Balochistan has forecast very heavy rain and thundershowers at some places in Gwadar (Jiwani, Pasni), Kech (Turbat), Awaran, Chagi, Panjgur, Kharan, Washuk and Noshki districts during the next 24 hours.
The Meteorological Centre Balochistan has advised the relevant authorities to remain vigilant during the next 36 to 48 hours.
Rain/Thunderstorm is expected in Gwadar, Kech (Turbat), Awaran, Chagi, Kharan, Pasni, Ormara, Lasbela, Khuzdar, Kalat, Noshki, Jhal Magsi, Nasirabad, Sibi, Kohlu, Dera Bugti, Loralai and Harnai on Thursday.
The met office has forecast rain with wind and thundershowers in Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Musakhel and Barkhan during the next 24 hours.
Meanwhile, there is a possibility of heavy rain and hailstorm at a few places in Quetta, Killa Saifullah, Qila Abdullah, Mastung, Shirani and Zhob.
Dera Bugti, Loralai, Harnai, Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Killa Saifullah, Qila Abdullah, Mastung, Sherani, Zhob, Musa Khel and Barkhan are likely to witness rains along with wind and thundershowers on Friday.
During the last 24 hours the weather remained cloudy and rainy in most parts of the province while Jiwani 40 mm, Gwadar 80 mm, Turbat 11 mm, Ormara 77mm, Pasni 66mm, Jiwani 40 mm, Panjgur 15 mm, Quetta city 12 mm, Samungli 10 mm Khuzdar 09 mm, Kalat and Turbat 11 mm, Khuzdar, Zhob and Nokundi 05 mm, Dalbandin 04 mm of rain was recorded.

Matthews leads West Indies women to convincing victory over Pakistan in series opener

By
Ali Ali
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0
KARACHI, Apr 18 (APP):Captain Hayley Matthews led West Indies women to a resounding 113-run victory over Pakistan in the opening One Day International (ODI) of the series held at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
Hayley Matthews showcased her brilliance with a remarkable century, scoring 140 runs off 150 balls, adorned with 15 fours and a six.
This marked her fifth career century in 81 matches, achieved in 125 balls, featuring nine fours and a six. She partnered with Shemaine Campbelle, contributing 102 runs for the second wicket after an early setback with just a single run on the board due to the loss of opener Rashada Williams.
Campbelle played a supportive role with a steady 45 off 71 balls, while Chinelle Henry added a valuable 23 runs at a run-a-ball pace. The West Indies set a formidable target of 270 runs for Pakistan.
In response, Pakistan faltered early, struggling at 65 for four, and further slipping to 100 for six. Despite efforts from Muneeba Ali and Nida Dar, who offered some resistance, Pakistan couldn’t sustain against the disciplined West Indies bowling attack.
Tuba Hassan’s brief cameo of 25 runs off 23 balls was not enough as Pakistan was bowled out for 156.
Afy Fisher and Zaida James, alongside Matthews, stood out with two wickets each.
The second match of the series is scheduled for April 21 at the same venue.

Mobilink Bank registers solid start to year by doubling its revenue in Q1 2024

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance institution, Mobilink Bank, has reported a staggering 97% increase in revenue during Q1 2024 compared to the same period last year, marking a powerful start to the year.
 The Bank’s Profit before Tax (PBT) also witnessed 110% growth, said a news release.
The substantial increase in the revenue and PBT underscore the Bank’s robust financial performance, heightened customer & stakeholder confidence, and the positive momentum within the country’s economic and business environment at the outset of the year.
Mobilink Bank is part of the VEON group, a global digital operator that provides converged connectivity and digital services to nearly 160 million customers in six dynamic markets that are home to 7% of world’s population.
Mobilink Bank champions financial inclusion and works to advance the growth and sustainability of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly those owned and run by women.
The Bank leverages microfinance and fintech to foster access to finance and facilitate the social mobility of underprivileged social segments.
Its initiatives have empowered thousands of women entrepreneurs by equipping them with vital skills and resources and strengthened a nearly equal number of MSMEs to catalyze inclusive growth and progress at the grassroots level.
The Bank’s purpose-driven approach has cultivated remarkable customer loyalty and goodwill, as reflected in the significant surge in both revenues and deposits throughout the quarter.
In Q1 2024, the Bank’s revenue rose to Rs 15,572 million, reflecting a substantial increase from Rs 7,901 million in Q1 2023.
During Q1 2024, Mobilink Bank achieved an 11% increase in total deposits compared to December 2023, with deposits growing from Rs . 119,286 million to Rs.  132,719 million. Core deposits saw an 8% growth, while branchless deposits surged by 15%. Moreover, the Bank’s Gross Loan Portfolio (GLP) expanded by 2% compared to the corresponding quarter, with its MSME outstanding loan portfolio standing at 30% of the total.
Expressing his delight at the Bank’s exceptional performance, President and CEO Mobilink Bank, Ghazanfar Azzam, stated, “I am happy that Mobilink Bank has begun the year on an extremely positive note. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our customers and stakeholders for their unwavering trust in us, which fuels our motivation and sense of purpose. I commend each member of our team for their diligence and commitment, which has strengthened our position and underscored our pivotal role in the industry. Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our female borrowers’ base through our inclusion initiatives and prioritizing green financing for sustainable development. We anticipate a year of growth for the banking and finance industry so that we can contribute more to the country’s overall economic progress and development.”

Harmful ketchup producing factory seized

By
Ali Ali
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0
RAWALPINDI, Apr 18 (APP):Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) authorities seized a factory producing deleterious ketchup, here on Thursday.
Spokesman RCB, Rasheed Saqib informed that Food Control Cell has raided a factory in the Sadar area where unhealthy and deleterious ketchup was being produced.
The ketchup was to be supplied to various shops. The raw material and related goods have been seized, he said adding that the samples have also been sent for laboratory tests for further investigation.
RCB food cell also examined other food outlets and served warning notices to 16 food points for unhygienic and polluted environments during the random surprise checks which are being carried out under special instructions by CEO Syed Ali Irfan Rizvi.
The CEO said that actions were being taken against those not fulfilling required quality standards and selling prohibited, expired items. He further said that all resources were being used for further improvement of quality and standards of food items by continuous checking of food points, units and factories.
The business of those who violate the rules will be closed, along with imposing fines and case registration against the violators, he said

US celebrates transformative achievements in KP in collaboration with govt, int’l donors

By
Ali Ali
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0
By Rehan Khan
ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):In a demonstration of collaborative efforts as development stakeholders, the United States (US) government, represented by Consul General Moore and US Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Somvongsiri, in conjunction with pivotal allies, on Thursday commemorated a sequence of groundbreaking accomplishments within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) region.
USAID reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to enhancing livelihoods and promoting enduring development in the area, said a press release issued here.
Mission Director Somvongsiri commended the outstanding progress stemming from its strategic alliance with the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and fellow international contributors.
Somvongsiri remarked  “USAID is committed to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Together, along with our international and local partners, we have laid the groundwork for a brighter future, and I am optimistic for what lies ahead. Our dedication to working hand in hand towards our shared goals and sustained impact remains stronger than ever. “
The United States, through USAID, has spearheaded transformative infrastructure projects, significantly bolstering the province’s energy capacity and connectivity.
Landmark projects such as Gomal Zam Dam and Golen Gol Hydropower project, coupled with the augmentation of Tarbela dam, have added 253 megawatts to the national grid, marking a significant step towards energy self-sufficiency.
The impact of USAID’s efforts extends far beyond infrastructure, reaching over 18,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) thereby catalyzing economic stability and prosperity.  More than 30,000 households have witnessed a doubling of their farm income, thanks to enhanced irrigation methods and agricultural practices championed by these initiatives.
USAID’s efforts in health and education have rehabilitated over 200 facilities and provided essential services to more than two million people, saving lives across the province.
USAID significantly improved reading instruction for over 600,000 children, distributed more than three million books, and awarded over 8,500 university scholarships.
The rehabilitation and construction of hundreds of schools have broadened educational horizons for over one million students, laying the foundation for a brighter future.
USAID has also facilitated more than 130,000 women to obtain their national identity cards, paving the way for their inclusion in voter lists and government support programs.
Additionally, the launch of the province’s first-ever disaster preparedness strategy exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to resilience and sustainability.
These efforts have not only transformed lives but also solidified a foundation for continued progress and prosperity in KP.

PM orders for boosting privatization, outsourcing process of power Discos

By
Najam ul Hassan
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0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday directed the relevant authorities to accelerate the process of privatization and outsourcing of the power distribution companies (Discos).

Chairing a high-lever meeting regarding power sector here, the prime minister said the assistance of private sector experts and globally accepted models should be taken to improve the management affairs of the distribution companies (DISCOs).

He also directed to prepare and present a comprehensive plan in the next meeting to improve the power system in the country.

The prime minister said reforms in the power sector would help reduce the country’s circular debt. He also vowed not to allow electricity thieves and other elements to harm the country’s treasury.

In the meeting, the recommendation and measures with respect to prevent the power theft, reorganization of National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC) and new projects of the electricity transmission were presented.

The meeting was told that Matiari-Rahim yar Khan transmission line and Ghazi Barotha-Faisalabad line will be constructed to ensure the power transmission from Southern part of the country.

The meeting was further informed that a comprehensive strategy had been evolved for the reorganization of NTDC to bring reforms in the power transmission system and to minimize the government’s circular debts.

The prime minister directed to complete all the reforms’ initiatives within the stipulated time.

The meeting was attended by the federal ministers Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Ahad Khan Cheema, Sardar Awais Khan Leghari, Dr Musadik Malik, Abdul Aleem Khan, Ataullah Tarar, Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, former power minister Muhammad Ali, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Jehanzeb Khan, Member of National Assembly Bilal Azhar Kayani, Engineer Qamar ul Islam, Rana Ehsan Afzal, Salman Ahmed and other concerned officials.

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