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Pakistan, Turkey sign 13 documents to boost bilateral ties in trade, defence, tourism

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP): Pakistan and Turkey Friday signed 13 documents of cooperation, including agreements, protocols and memorandums of understanding, to boost bilateral ties in the fields of trade, tourism, defence and infrastructure development.

The documents of cooperation were signed in a ceremony held here at the PM House during the visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following his one-on-one meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan and the delegation level talks.

The two leaders also witnessed the signing ceremony, besides the members of the Turkish delegation and federal cabinet members.

Pakistan and Turkey signed a declaration of Strategic Economic Framework between the two countries inked by Prime Minister Imran Khan and President Erdogan, besides a joint declaration on the visit.

The two countries signed a bilateral agreement on military training cooperation and the signatories included Defence Minister Pervez Khattak and Turkish National Defence Minister Hulusi Akar.

Rector of National University of Science and Technology of Pakistan Lt. Gen (Retd) Naweed Zaman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Turkish Aerospace Industries Tamel Kotli signed an MoU for cooperation between their respective institutions.

An implementation programme of the MoU between Turkish Standard Institutions (TSE) and Pakistan Standard and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) in the field of standardization, conformity assessment, meteorology and training was signed by PSQCA Director General Abdul Aleem Memon and TSE President Dr Adem Sahin.

An MoU was signed between the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and the Turkish Ministry of Culture, Tourism on Cooperation in Diaspora Policy inked by Secretary Overseas Pakistanis Amir Hassan and President of Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities Abdullah Eren.

In order to enhance media and cultural cooperation, a cooperation protocol between Turkish Radio Television Corporation (TRT) and Pakistan Television (PTV) was signed by PTV Managing Director Amer Manzoor and TRT DG brahim Eren. Similarly, another such protocol was also signed by Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation DG Samina Waqar and TRT DG to enhance cooperation and share expertise in the field of radio.

Pakistan and Turkey signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation for development of tourism and the signatories were Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Dr Fehmida Mirza and Turkish Deputy Minister for Culture and Tourism Dr Serdar CAM.

An MoU was signed by Minister for Science and Technology Chaudhry Fawad Hussain and Turkish Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan for cooperation in the field of Halal Accreditation between the two countries.

The Turkish Trade Minister and Finance Adviser Abdul Hafeez Sheikh signed an MoU between Turkish Trade Ministry and Federal Board of Revenue on trade facilitation and custom cooperation.

Minister for Communication Murad Saeed and Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Mehmet Cahit Turan signed an MoU for cooperation between Pakistan Post and Turkish Post.

Similarly, another MoU was signed by Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed and Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister to increase cooperation in the field of railways.

Imran, Erdogan agree to boost ties; PM seeks Turkish cooperation in tourism, construction sectors

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):With the signing of 11 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and two documents, including Declaration of Strategic Economic Framework (SEF), Pakistan and Turkey on Friday agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse areas such as trade, energy, infrastructure, health, culture and tourism.

“We have to benefit from the experience of Turkey especially in the tourism sector through which it generates US $ 35 billion revenue per annum and construction for affordable housing,” Prime Minister Imran Khan said while speaking at a joint press stakeout along with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan here at the PM House.

The joint stakeout followed a one-on-one meeting between the two leaders, delegation levels talks and 6th meeting the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSSC) co-chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan and President Erdogan.

The prime minister said since Turkey had achieved advancement in the construction sector and had the experience of developing slums, Pakistan wanted to benefit not only from it in affordable housing but also from the way they boosted their economy, checked debts, including the IMF loans, and did a turnaround.

He said as giving jobs to the youth was very important for Pakistan, it would also benefit from the Turkish experience of industrialization.

President Erdogan said he had great pleasure to visit the brotherly country after three years and considered Pakistan as his second home.

He said holding yet another meeting of the HLSCC was the most important signal of Pak-Turkey strategic relations. The two sides deliberated in detail on all the aspects of bilateral ties in the Joint Working Committee as well as during the HLSCC meeting.

He said the signing of 13 MoUs and documents was the most important indicator of the close relationship between the two countries.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recalled the visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Turkey and said the two sides had agreed to take the bilateral trade to the level of US $ 5 billion by 2023.

The Strategic Economic Frame and the Action Plan provided a road-map to what the two countries should do for economic partnership, he added.

President Erdogan said Turkey was ready to support Pakistan in the areas of transport, energy, tourism, healthcare, education and law enforcement, which would help boost its socio-economic development.

He expressed his confidence that Prime Minister Imran Khan would not spare any effort to improve business environment in his country.

Assuring all-out support to Pakistan, he said, “Turkey stands next to Pakistan like yesterday and will do so in future as well.”

President Erdogan said the messages of solidarity and condolences sent by the Pakistani leadership as well as their support after the recent earthquake in Elazig province of eastern Turkey was an example of the connection and affection between the two brotherly nations.

He described handing of Fethullah Gulen’s schools in Pakistan over to Turkey as another symbol of solidarity.

The Turkish president termed Pak-Turkey cooperation in defence the “most dynamic” area of bilateral cooperation.

President Erdogan said Turkey was ready to contribute in good relations between the two brotherly nations of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

He said Turkey was disturbed to see the situation in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK) deteriorating due to unilateral (Indian) actions.

Turkey was in favour of finding a peaceful solution of the issue through dialogue between Pakistan and India in line with the United Nations resolutions as well as the expectations of the people of Kashmir, he added.

He also appreciated Pakistan’s contribution and role in the fight against terrorism as well as for peace and stability in the region.

President Erdogan thanked the government and the people of Pakistan for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation, and said he wished and prayed that the MoUs signed today would bring good results.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said the people of Pakistan were very happy on the visit of President Erdogan and especially liked his address to the joint session of parliament. “If President Erdogan participates in Pakistani elections, he would clean-sweep the polls,” he remarked.

The prime minister thanked the Turkish leader for raising his voice for around eight million Kashmiri people, who had been under siege for over six months with leaders and teenagers put behind the bars in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, an area where people had to exercise their right of self-determination in accordance with the UN resolutions.

He hoped that the signing of Strategic Economic Framework as well as the MoUs by Pakistan and Turkey would herald a new era of trade and economic cooperation between the two brotherly countries.

The prime minister thanked Turkey for supporting Pakistan on the issues of Kashmir and FATF (Financial Action Task Force), and said the two brotherly nations backed each other at international fora.

Pakistan, India win last pool matches of World Kabaddi Cup

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Sohail Ali

LAHORE, Feb 14 (APP):Pakistan and India won their last pool matches of Kabaddi World Cup 2020 comfortably against Azerbaijan and England, respectively at Ch Zahoor Elahi Stadium, Gujrat on Friday.

Pakistan won the toss and showed their class against rookie team Azerbaijan and defeated them by 40-30, while India outplayed England by 44-26 without much trouble.

After winning their last pool matches, India set up first semifinal clash against Australia at 6.00pm while Pakistan will meet Iran in second semifinal at 7.30pm at Punjab Stadium here tomorrow (Saturday), said the Information made available here.

Speaker Punjab Assembly Ch Pervaiz Elahi was the chief guest of Kabaddi World Cup 2020 matches. He was introduced with all teams ahead of their matches. President Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) Ch Shafay Hussain, Secretary PKF Rana Sarwar and other officials were also present on this occasion. Later, President Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) Ch Shafay Hussain distributed prizes among the top performers.

For Pakistan, raiders skipper Irfan Mana, Akmal Shahzad Dogar, Kaleemullah Jatt and Malik Binyameen scored valuable points for their team while Pervaiz and Subhan also demonstrated good game for Azerbaijan.

Talking to the media, Speaker Punjab Assembly Ch Pervaiz Elahi welcomed all the participating teams and kabaddi lovers at Ch Zahoor Elahi Stadium, Gujrat. “Gujrat has immense sports talent and the Kabaddi World Cup 2020 matches at Ch Zahoor Elahi Stadium will play a major role in promoting this game in Gujrat,” he added.

Speaker Punjab Assembly Ch Pervaiz Elahi said that definitely it’s a great honour for Gujrat to host matches of Kabaddi World Cup 2020 involving top teams like India, Pakistan and England. “We will also invite international teams of other games in Gujrat in future. The sports passion of Gujrat youth reflected that the future of sports is bright in our city”.

In the second match of the day, England team offered some resistance but defending champion India defied their moves skillfully in both raiding and stopping department.
India’s Arsh Jhola, Deepak Kashi and Ravi Kumar amused the audience with wonderful raids while England’s Sukha Lakhpuria, Rana Akmal, Ali and Sajid won huge appreciation from large gathering through their kabaddi skills.

Kabaddi World Cup final points table, to be read as teams, matches played, won, lost and points.

Pool A
Teams P W L Pts
India 4 4 0 8
Iran 4 3 1 6
Germany 4 2 2 4
England 4 1 3 2
Sierra Leone 4 0 4 0

Pool B
Pakistan 3 3 0 6
Australia 3 2 1 4
Canada 3 1 2 2
Azerbaijan 3 0 3 0

Pak-Turkey signs SEF for bilateral understanding on FTA: Razak Dawood

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Pakistan and Turkey have formally signed the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) for promotion of trade and economic relations for further dialogue on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two brotherly countries, Advisor to Prime Minister on Commerce, Abdul RAzak DAwood announced here.

Addressing the Pakistan-Turkey Business and Investment Forum, he said that this work would be completed by March and in April both the countries would further negotiate on bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between both sides.

He said that under the framework the governments of both the countries would strengthen their relations in trade and investment, Information Technology, defense and several other sectors.

He said that both the countries had worked out the framework during the meeting of Advisor to PM on Commerce and Turkish Commerce Advisor in January 16 and 17 in Davos.
He said that on Thursday, the framework has been signed and would be working on way forward now to explore strengths’ and potential of both the countries.

Razak Dawood said invited Turkish Business to come forward and work for increasing bilateral trade economic relations between Pakistan and Turkey.

The Turkish companies also can come for investment in different sector including Information Technology and Infrastructure for strengthening the bilateral ties.
He also called for Turkish business community cooperation on Halal food for its processing and exports from Pakistan in near future.

The adviser also thanked the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and Turkish Businessman’s and investors for their efforts to strengthening the business and economic ties between Pakistan and Turkey.

He urged the business community of both side to work for enhancing the bilateral trade and investment from both sides.

While on the occasion, addressing to the forum, Minister of Trade Republic of Turkey Ms .Ruhsar Pekcan said that “We need enhance the trade between Pakistan and Turkey up to $ 1 billion for close economic ties.

She said that both sides are negotiating on Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) for further dialogue on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and Turkey.

She said that both sides are agreed to further enhance the cooperation on areas of mutual interest in future.

PM woos Turkish investors assuring all-out facilitation

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Prime Minister Imran Khan Friday wooed the Turkish business community to explore trade and investment opportunities in Pakistan’s multiple sectors, assuring his business-friendly government’s all-out support in their ventures.

Addressing the Pakistan Turkey Business and Investment Forum held here during the ongoing visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the prime minister said his government could do anything to improve trade relations with Turkey.

The event was also attended by the Turkish president, Advisor to the PM on Commerce Abdul Razzak Dawood, Turkish Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan, federal cabinet members and top businessmen from both the countries.

He said Pakistan would like Turkish investment in the tourism sector to learn the best experiences for implementing in the country supported by a well-developed infrastructure, which it was lacking.

He said Pakistan had been enlisted among the top tourist destinations by a United States magazine.

The prime minister said Turkey could also extend cooperation in information technology, mining and agriculture sectors. Pakistan had huge mining potential with most of it being untapped, while Turkey had vast experience in the sector.

He assured the Turkish investors that his government, the most business friendly one in Pakistan’s history, would be extending full facilitation to them. Moreover, Pakistan had also jumped by 28 points in the World Bank’s index of ease of doing business. Constantly, the government was trying, for ease of the businessmen, to reduce the regulations which came their way.

The prime minister said he looked forward the interaction between the Turkish and Pakistani business communities. He desired the business community to take the lead as the political leadership was much closer than the business community of the two countries so far and urged the businessmen to take benefit of closer political relationship.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in his address, thanked the government and the people of Pakistan for great hospitality, saying he regarded Pakistan as his second home.

He expressed the hope that the interaction between the two business communities would help further strengthen the bilateral relations and open up new avenues of investment.
He said despite increase in investment, both the countries lagged behind to tap their true potential and called for enhancing the bilateral trade to $ 5 billion by taking necessary steps.

The two sides had to take measures towards common objectives and with having industries which complimented each other they should focus on those areas, he added.
He said Turkey had increased its investment in Pakistan and wanted the Pakistani companies to invest in that country in diverse areas.

President Erdogan said Turkey not only supported the international investment but also offered its Turkish citizenship and Pakistani brothers should also take benefit of it.
He also presented an economic outlook of Turkey which had reduced its public debt by 30 percent, provided new employment to 900,000 people in tourism and attracted US $ 22 billion in investment.

With a strong banking sector, flourishing aviation industry and increasing exports, Turkey was continuing to achieve economic progress despite various hurdles, he added.

President Erdogan said with Pakistan taking important steps in facilitating business environment under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, bilateral cooperation between the two brotherly countries in the areas of defence, transportation, housing, health care was becoming deeper.

Noted Islamic body gives away meals to homeless in New York City

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NEW YORK, Feb 14 (APP):A prominent Islamic charitable organization distributed hot meals among hundreds of homeless people in New York City on a cold Thursday afternoon.

Pakistan’s Consul General Ayesha Ali and her deputy, Naeem Cheema, joined hands with dozens of volunteers of the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), and gave away food packages to the homeless who had lined up on a busy avenue in Manhattan.

An estimated 70,000 people are homeless in this bustling city of over 8.4 million. Some of them sleep on the streets while others in shelters provided by the city government.

Speaking to reporters, Ayesha Ali lauded the organizers for this noble undertaking in which a large number of Pakistani-Americans, especially young men and women, took part.

“I am very happy to see Pakistani-Americans actively taking part in this effort,” she said. “I congratulate you.”

ICNA’s New York’s Hunger Prevention Inchage, Anwar Gujjar was also present at the occasion, as was ICNA Relief’s spokesman Moviz Siddiqui.

33 countries including Pakistan provided medical supplies to fight coronavirus: China

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BEIJING, Feb 14 (APP):The Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Friday said that 33 countries including Pakistan, all-weather friend and strategic partner of China and four international organizations have provided China with medical supplies to fight the novel coronavirus.

“According to what we have learned from diplomatic channels, altogether 33 foreign governments and 4 international organizations have provided China with medical supplies.,” Geng Shuang said during his online briefing held here.

The countries included: Algeria, Australia, Belarus, Cambodia, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Ghana, Hungary, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Suriname, Tajikistan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, the European Union, UNICEF, UNDP and the International Organization for Migration, he added.

He informed that a total of 17 foreign governments and one international organization announced that they would offer medical supplies to China.

“They are: Austria, Brazil, the Republic of Congo, Costa Rica, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Norway, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Slovenia and the United Nations Population Fund.”

In addition, Chile, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Vanuatu have also offered China financial and material support in other means, he added.

Geng Shuang said that friendly people in many countries, overseas Chinese firms and Chinese community including students had also provided a lot of support in various ways.

He said that China mainly relied on its own strength to tackle the epidemic, and added, “We are confident and capable of doing this. In the meantime, we welcome and thank the international community, the developing countries in particular, for their sincere support and friendly assistance.”

According to latest data release by China’s National Health Commission here on Friday, the confirmed novel coronavirus cases on the Chinese mainland have so far reached over 6,932 in China and 505 abroad while a total of 1,381 people have died of the deadly disease. Over 6,723 patients have recovered from the deadly disease.

The prevailing pneumonia outbreak was first reported in the city of Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province in December. Experts have attributed the outbreak to a novel coronavirus that has since spread across China and abroad.

China lauds SCO member states leadership for expressing solidarity in battle against coronavirus epidemic

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BEIJING, Feb 14 (APP):China on Friday lauded the leadership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) members states for sending messages of condolences, speaking highly of China’s forceful measures and expressing readiness to provide support and assistance in its battle against novel coronavirus.

“Since the outbreak of the epidemic, leaders of the SCO member states have all sent messages of condolences in which they spoke highly of China’s forceful measures and expressed their readiness to provide support and assistance,” Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Geng Shuang said during his online briefing while commenting on a statement issued by the SCO in support of China’s efforts in countering the novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic.

Secretary General Vladimir Norov of the SCO also said previously that the SCO member states will stand with the Chinese people to jointly fight against the epidemic.

Geng Shuang said that the SCO statement once again showcased the fine tradition of the member states sharing weal and woe through thick and thin.
“China will continue with its close cooperation with the international community, including the SCO member states, to mount a joint response against the epidemic and uphold regional and global public health security,” he added.

The SCO issued a statement in support of China’s efforts in countering the novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic. “The statement said that the SCO member states welcome the decisive measures undertaken by the Chinese government and people to fight the epidemic and to stop it from spreading.”

He said that the member states reaffirmed their readiness to render China the necessary assistance and to closely cooperate with China. They called on the international community to step up their coordination within the World Health Organization for better public health security.

Geng Shuang said the member states were convinced that coordinated joint efforts as well as mutual support would make it possible to overcome this epidemic and to contain its spreading.

The SCO, a comprehensive regional organization commanding major international influence, has been advocating the “Shanghai Spirit”, enhancing cooperation and mutual support in the spirit of solidarity to address new threats and challenges and promote common development and prosperity.

President Alvi, Erdogan offer Friday prayers at Aiwan-e-Sadr

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):President Dr Arif Alvi and Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered Friday prayers at the mosque in the premises of Aiwan-e-Sadr.

The two leaders prayed for the solidarity of their countries and for the unity of Muslim community.

Earlier this morning, President Erdogan addressed the joint sitting of the parliament.

The Turkish President arrived in Islamabad on Thursday on a two-day official visit.

Govt to put in place effective mechanism for ensuring no price hike in future: PM

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By Shafek Koreshe

ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP): Prime Minister Imran Khan Friday said a proper mechanism was being put in place for putting in place an early warning system for detecting shortage of essential food items and no recurrence of price hike in future.

Describing the recent price hike of edible items as “avoidable”, the prime minister said he was awaiting the report of a high-level probe into sharp increase in the prices of wheat flour and sugar that caused widespread criticism on the government.

“We will fix responsibility and find why it happened,” Imran Khan told reporters at a media interaction here at the Prime Minister House. The joint investigation team had submitted its report about the factors leading to the price hike, however, he had returned it “to fill the voids”.

“We will share the information with the public and put in place a system so as to ensure there is no such repeat,” he said.

When asked whether the report pointed the finger at Jehangir Tareen and Khusro Bakhtiar, Imran Khan said, “There were no names. It had [report] gaps, and we have asked to submit a more comprehensive one.”

The prime minister’s interaction with the media came as the government had taken a number of measures to control prices of everyday essential items by announcing a Rs 15 billion package for the Utility Stores, initiation of Ration Cards for the poorest of the poor and fixing responsibility for the lapse.

Imran Khan said there were cartels in every sector of economy and pointed to the dismal performance of the Competition Commission of Pakistan, which was not accomplishing the tasks it was assigned. The government was going to fix it as unless it started working effectively, there could be no check on the cartels, which could raise the price of any commodity at will.

He was optimistic that his government would be able to tackle the issue, as he had no business interests. He gave the example of Pakistan Medical and Dental Council, whose inefficient working led to the forced return of over 5,000 doctors from Saudi Arabia. “When we tried to change it the whole mafia of fake degrees and dubious medical colleges got activated against the government.”

Imran Khan said his government was also going to bring in necessary changes in the electoral laws of Senate so as to adopt the “show of hands” procedure for voting and do away with the current secret balloting system, which led to leveling of allegations of bribery.

“We had to show door to 20 of our MPAs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for just this reason, as we got information that they sold their votes,” Imran Khan said and added that his government wanted to create a transparent system.

He said change was also in the offing in the electoral laws and use of modern biometric technology so that any losing party could not claim that it was the outcome of rigging. The opposition had been levelling baseless allegations of rigging, and were not really interested in finding a permanent solution to the issue, he added.

The prime minister, when asked about the remarks of Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman wherein he claimed that the PTI government was about to be ousted, said, “Article 6 needs to be invoked on making such remarks.”

“Who gave you [Fazlur Rehman] this indication?” Imran Khan questioned and said the government was deliberating on the future course of action in that regard, in response to a question. He said the Kashmir issue was at its peak, when diversion was deliberately caused and a sit-in staged in Islamabad. The entire effort to highlight the Kashmir issue at the United Nations was put on the back-burner.

He said the opposition parties had no interest in the issue of price hike, and their only worry was about whether they would go to jail or not for their corruption, and how to create instability in the country.

“I faced six cases and did not seek refuge in London. I submitted 60 documents to give my money trail of bringing in dollars from abroad to Pakistan. While they [leaders of PML-N and PPP] did not submit even a single original document.

When asked about the differences in his party and with the allies, the prime minister questioned, “In which political party you do not find difference of opinion? Just see the situation in the two main opposition parties, or for that matter in any other political party in the world.”

The concerns of the allies had already been addressed, he said.

Emine Erdogan gifts sewing machines to Thalassemia-hit women

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Turkish first lady Emine Erdogan on Friday said financially self-reliant women could positively contribute  towards national economy besides proving themselves a stable support for their families.

Addressing at a ceremony to distribute sewing machines among women suffering from Thalassemia, the Turkish first lady said the disease had a negative impact on entire families who needed continuous moral support.

Emine Erdogan said the friendly relationship between Pakistan and Turkey would further strengthen for the benefit of their peoples.

She expressed concern that number of Thalassemia patients in Pakistan was increasing day-by-day and said Turkey would provide assistance to Pakistan in domain of social welfare.

She stressed importance of medical tests of Thalassemia before marriage to reduce chances of fatal disease.

Emine Erdogan said gift of sewing machines for Thalassemia-hit women would make them financially self-reliant.

First Lady Samina Arif Alvi said the government was determined to make women the useful segment of society as without their participation, the concept of national development was irrelevant.

She mentioned that Pakistan Bait ul Mal was taking steps for emancipation of women in line with the vision of President and Prime Minister of Pakistan.
She said protection of women’s rights was top priority of the government.

She expressed gratitude to Turkish first lady for giving away sewing machines to the women suffering from Thalassemia.

Later, Samina Alvi presented a traditional shawl to Emine Erdogan.

PM’s Special Assistant on Social Welfare Dr Sania Nishtar, Chairman Pakistan Bait ul Mal Aun Abbas Bappi and senior officials were present.

Pak-Turkey SEF to convert political relationship into strategic partnership: Qureshi

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi Friday said the signing of Pakistan-Turkey Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Imran Khan would help convert the existing ideal political relationship between the two countries into a strategic partnership.

Under the SEF, which was proposed during the visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Turkey last year and was being deliberated by officials since then, a 71-point Plan of Action had been agreed upon to achieve the objective, he added.

Foreign Minister Qureshi, flanked by Special Assistant to the PM on Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, was addressing a press conference here to highlight the major points of President Erdogan’s visit.

He lauded President Erdogan for raising voice for the oppressed Kashmiris and said the Turkish support for the just resolution of Kashmir dispute had worn the hearts of Pakistanis and Kashmiris alike.

Similarly, the foreign minister said, President Erdogan’s clear stance on the issue of FATF (Financial Action Task Force) was also very important.

With the FATF’s plenary session beginning in Paris on February 16, the timing of President Erdogan’s statement was very important and indicated that Turkey stood with Pakistan, he added.

The foreign minister in this respect also recalled that during the recent meeting of FATF in Beijing, Pakistan’s point of view on the plan of action and its seriousness on the issue was appreciated.

Qureshi said during the visit of President Erdogan, seven Joint Working Groups comprising senior officials from Pakistan and Turkey were established whose serious deliberations led to the preparation and signing of 13 important memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and documents.

He said during the meeting at leadership level, it was recognized that now was the time to convert Pakistan-Turkey close and historic relations into strategic economic partnership for mutual benefit.

He said during the talks, decision on establishment of two new Working Groups for cooperation in defence industry and water and agriculture, respectively was also taken.

The foreign minister said Prime Minister Imran Khan and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also signed a Joint Declaration.

He said the Pakistan-Turkey Joint Business Forum, attended by around 100 chief executive officers and senior representatives of Turkish companies as well as members of Pakistan business community and chambers, provided the best opportunity of direct interaction between the two private sectors.

He said the visit of President Erdogan to Pakistan and the recent visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Malaysia also dispelled the negative impression that was created after the latter could not attend the Kuala Lumpur Summit.

President Erdogan’s visit gave a clear message that Turkey was a close friend and stood with Pakistan, he added.

Pakistani students, scholars in China continue to weigh in on virus fight

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BEIJING, Feb 14 (APP):Despite the epidemic outbreak of the novel coronavirus pneumonia, some foreigners including Pakistani students and scholars decided to stay in China to express solidarity with the Chinese brethren in the difficult time and support them in their battle against Covid-19.

Muhammad Musa Khan Niazi, a student at Shandong Institute of Commerce and Technology in Jinan, Shandong province told China Daily on Friday that he belonged to Peshawar. He said that coming to China was his dream and fortunately got a chance to study in China.

Musa Khan said that suddenly, he and other students heard the news of an epidemic outbreak of a new virus. At first, they took it too easy but then they saw the horrible news of its real capabilities and boom! But calamity isn’t a thing! Rather fighting it is.

The Chinese nation encountered it with high spirits on such a massive scale that being a witness, he was amazed. They took care of themselves, of the places, used the best technologies and took care of the students more than themselves.

They provided us with free masks, disinfectant, medicine, food at doorsteps, free electricity and moral support. It is a hard time but I’m really impressed by their spirit.

For now, he opined that they were very safe till the epidemic was over. But he was disappointed with some of the international media playing a negative role.

2020 started with calamities such as the Australian bushfires, floods in Venice, earthquakes in Turkey and Japan, a locust outbreak in East Africa and South Asia. So why such a negative portrayal of the coronavirus, he questioned.

He said that the fellow Chinese people were combating it in the best way, adding, I will stay here, will support my friends and will pursue my goals in this safe land of opportunities.

Meanwhile, Haroon Ali, a Pakistani teacher, and director of international students at Shandong Institue of Commerce and Technology also decided to stay in China amid Covid-19.

He said that one month ago, everything was normal. People were preparing for Chinese New Year, and he was making plans to attend his brother’s marriage ceremony in Pakistan at end of January.

But he got news of a virus spreading around Wuhan city and many people getting infected. I received notice from my institute giving strict instruction to all international students. At this critical situation I made the hard decision not to attend my brother’s wedding and stay here in China to help my students.

Sharing his own experiences and observations during the epidemic, he said that he lived in Jinan, which was almost 800 kilometers from Wuhan and added, the situation was not as serious here as Wuhan, but for public safety most supermarkets, malls, cinemas, car workshops, public offices and schools were closed.

He said that public transport was still running but almost without passengers, and few private cars could be seen on roads. As everyone had to stay at home, the main issue was availability of food and medical facilities.

The local government had made a system to provide access to all kinds of necessities. People could buy things online and had them delivered in a few hours.

Haroon Ali appreciated Chinese government, which was doing its best to fight in a critical epidemic situation. He also appreciated his institute as well, which was working hard day and night for international students. Food was being provided inside dormitories and physical check-ups were being done continuously on all students.

All teachers frequently connect with students who returned home or elsewhere. International students living in dormitories cannot go out at the moment, so I am helping them buy all kinds of food items and other daily necessities from the supermarket. I explain different safety precautions to them for virus prevention and protection. In order to refresh their minds, I teach them Chinese and their major courses as well.

He said that most students parents were worried about their kids. I often talk with them just to tell them about the current situation and remind them to be strong and stand with China, their children’ s second homeland, which is giving them advanced learning opportunities.

He said that they were keeping eyes on China and hoping for a fast recovery. I have been living in China for the past four years. I deeply know local government and their abilities.

He believed everything would be normal in the next few weeks, and said, We all know everyone is making an effort in their own way.

All the international community, especially Pakistanis, stand with China and will support the Chinese government and their remarkable efforts during this epidemic.

Turkey, Pakistan are one soul in two bodies: Ministers said

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Ministers Friday hailed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visit to Pakistan and said that Pakistan and Turkey were tied in strong religious, cultural and historic bonds.

Pakistan has great regard and respect for the Turkish president as a prominent Muslim leader, said PTI ministers while talking to PTV news outside Parliament.

“Both countries are like one soul in two bodies”, ministers added.
Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Muhammad Khan said we take pride in our exemplary historic brotherly relations with Turkey, adding, Pakistan and Turkey both were enjoying historical, religious and cultural ties
He said efforts are being made to take this relationship to newer heights under the strong sincere leadership of prime minister Imran Khan .

“We Pakistanis welcome our heartiest most dearest guest, elder brother and President Of Turkey”, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Muhammad Khan said.

Honorable President of Turkey Pakistan is just like your second Home and we respect you as much as we love and respect our own Prime Minister Imran Khan, he added.

He said it is a historical occasion today where Pakistan can learn from the abilities of Turkey government and its great achievements , adding, Turkey is our part and parcel of our soul.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Senator Faisal Javed said Pakistan has proud for Present Recep Tayyip Erdogan who raised the voice for Kashmiris besides for raising the issue of IOK in the UN General Assembly.

Kashmir’s solution lay in just, peaceful solution, not oppression: Erdogan

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday, stressing a ‘peaceful and just solution’ to the Kashmir dispute, said Turkey would continue to extend unflinching support to the stance of Kashmiri brethren at all fora.

“Turkey believes that the Kashmir issue can not be resolved through oppressive means, but on the basis of principles of justice and peace,” the Turkish president said in his address to the joint session of Parliament.

This was the fourth time Tayyip Erdogan addressed the Parliament of Pakistan – earlier twice as Turkey’s premier and once as president.

Prime Minister Imran Khan, cabinet members, parliamentarians from treasury and opposition benches, services chiefs and ambassadors attended the session.

The 24-minute speech of Tayyip Erdogan, who arrived here Thursday on a two-day official visit, focused on Pakistan and Turkey’s joint road-map of development and prosperity, Turkey’s support for Kashmir cause and need for unity among Islamic countries to fight common challenges including poverty and Islamophobia.

President Erdogan mentioned that Turkey openly defended the just struggle of Kashmiris at the 74th session of United Nations General Assembly in New York and during all meetings of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation
(OIC).

He said India’s unilateral step on changing the status of Jammu and Kashmir had further aggravated the problems faced by Kashmiris. “Curbing the freedom rights of Kashmiris and putting them under siege, will be in no one’s interest,” he said, adding only peaceful negotiations could pave the way towards solution acceptable to all stakeholders.

Erdogan stressed that apart from their mutual rifts, it was religious duty of all Islamic countries to stand for the oppressed Muslims anywhere in the world, may it be in Palestine, Cyprus or Kashmir.

President Erdogan said Pakistan was heading in the right direction in its journey towards development and mentioned that the tough road to prosperity required determination, faith and struggle as main ingredients.

He expressed the confidence that in an environment of cooperation among legislature, judiciary and armed forces, Pakistan would soon reap fruits of economic stability as immense foreign investment poured in during recent months.

Erdogan said he had arrived along with a high-powered delegation to participate in the sixth meeting of Pak-Turk High Level Strategic Cooperation Council with heavy agenda on strengthening business relations
and other areas.

He said a road-map would be devised based on strategic economic framework, outlining trade, investment infrastructure and tourism.

“The 210 million people of Pakistan and 8.3 million Turkish people will stand shoulder-by-shoulder in achieving their common goal of strong bilateral economic ties,” he added.

He recalled that implementation on the previous agreements, reached upon during visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Turkey, was in full progress.

Turkish President Erdogan paid tribute to Pakistan in successfully overcoming a long fight against terrorism.

Erdogan said he was well-aware of the difficulties faced by Pakistan in dealing with aftermath of regional conflicts as Turkey itself braved for 35 years, the terrorist and separatist activities of extremist outfits
including Daesh, Kurdish PKK and Fetullah Gulen’s FETO.

He thanked Pakistan’s for allowing to take over FETO-linked schools in Pakistan by Turkey’s Maarif Foundation and also for supporting the ‘Operation Peace Spring’ military operation conducted by Turkey in north of Syria.

“Contrary to those indulging in mere rhetoric of democracy and human values, Pakistan has always extended a real support to Turkey for which we are extremely grateful,” he said.

Erdogan assured Pakistan of continued support on all issues including its stance on Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

He lauded Pakistan’s efforts for resumption of peace in Afghanistan with an objective of regional stability.

The Turkish President criticized the peace plan, presented by the U.S. President Donald Trump, saying it was meant to illegally occupy the land. He also condemned the Israeli attacks on the Bait-ul-Maqdas.

President Erdogan said Pakistan was like a second home for him and termed it a moment of pride to address the country’s Parliament.

He said Turkey and Pakistan enjoyed unprecedented closeness in relations, based on love and affinity, rather than of interests.

On bilateral ties rooted in history, he recalled that the Muslims of Subcontinent in 1915, now Pakistan, took rallies in Lahore in support of the Turkish armed forces, defending their Fort in Turkey.

Erdogan read out the poetic verses of Pakistan’s national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal who paid tribute to the courageous Turk nation and then concluded his speech on excerpts of the Pakistan’s national anthem.

Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser termed Erdogan a true friend of Pakistan for his undeterred
support for the country at international fora.
He said the visit of Turkish President took place at a time when the world faced the challenges of
Islamophobia.
He paid tribute to President Erdogan on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan for extending firm support to the Kashmir cause.

Earlier on arrival of President Erdogan in the House, a noticeable jam-packed Parliament gave him a standing ovation and thumped desks as a welcome gesture. National anthems of two countries were also played on the occasion.

Coronavirus national action plan implementation to be ensured: Mirza

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Zafar Mirza on Friday said that national action plan to ensure preparedness and response against Novel Coronavirus was being implemented in coordination with all stakeholders.

Chairing the emergency core group meeting for Novel Coronavirus preparedness and response here, he said that all necessary steps were being taken to protect people from the disease.

There was, so far, no case of the disease in Pakistan as strict vigilance was being maintained at the airports with screening of incoming travelers and their follow up by dedicated public health teams and airport health authorities.

Under the National Action Plan, in line with WHO guidelines and in accordance with international best practices both isolation facilities at designated hospitals and quarantine arrangements were an essential requirement to meet any eventuality, added Dr Zafar Mirza.

Isolation wards were established in major designated hospitals across the country whereas a quarantine facility was being established as per WHO guidelines.

With the approval of the prime minister, Hajj Complex in Rawalpindi has been designated for the purpose. All necessary arrangements at the quarantine facility were now in place with the support of Ministry of Religious Affairs and NDMA.

“I would like to express special gratitude to Ministry of Religious Affairs and NDMA for completing all arrangements at the facility in the shortest possible time,” Dr Zafar Mirza said.

He assured that the government would take all actions keeping the protection of the health of our people supreme and guided by the science of public health. “We are working round the clock and maintaining high level of vigilance to counter the public health challenge posed by Novel Coronavirus pandemic,” Dr Zafar Mirza said.

He added that he was pleased to confirm that four Pakistani students in China who were infected by the virus have fully recovered and had been discharged from the hospital.

Pak-Turkey relations deeply entrenched in common Islamic heritage, values: Firdous

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting, Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan on Friday said that Pak-Turkey relations are deeply entrenched in common Islamic heritage and values.

During a meeting with Dr. Serdar Cam, Deputy Tourism Minister of Turkey, she said this relationship is not confined between the two states but reflective of an unfathomable bond between the people of two countries.

“We are proud the way Turkey has advocated the Kashmir cause as innocent Kashmiris deserve attention of the International community particularly, the Muslim Ummah”, she said.

The SAPM said that signing of two protocols on cooperation between PTV and PBC with their Turkish counterpart, TRT, will further reinforce ties between the two countries in the fields of media, information and culture.

The cooperation will enable both sides to exchange TV/ Radio programmes and help reinforce narratives to promote the cause of Muslim Ummah.

Dr Firdous also stressed the need to fortify cooperation in the area of film and cinema.
She said that hosting the 6th High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) Session will prove to be another milestone in our bilateral relations which span over seven decades.

“I am also pleased to see a memorandum on tourism cooperation being inked today as this subject is close to the heart of Prime Minister Imran Khan”, she said.

Referring to the address of President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan, she said it was encouraging to note that he highlighted the importance to boost ties in the area of investment and economy. She said that media can be an affective tool to promote cooperation in all sectors.

The SAPM said that development of Pakistan tourism sector is our key priority and formal collaboration in this sector would afford us an opportunity to learn from Turkish experiences and best practices.

Dr Serdar Cam said that the Turkish delegates are happy to be here in our second home, Pakistan.

He said that all departments and organizations are ready to extend cooperation to their Pakistani counterparts in the field of tourism. There is lot of scope for promotion of tourism in Pakistan, he said.

“I wish and desire more and more Turkish people to visit Pakistan as tourists”,
Deputy Minister for Tourism said.

He said Pakistan and Turkey enjoy a unique history of solidarity and cooperation in areas mutually beneficial for the people of both countries.

Dr Serdar Cam also extended an invitation to the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting to visit Turkey.

The meeting was also attended by Akbar Durrani (TI), Secretary Information, Amir Manzoor, Managing Director, PTVC, Ms. Samina Waqar, Director General, PBC and Saeed Javed, DG External Publicity Wing, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Pakistan,Turkey enjoy unique bonds of brotherhood,friendship: Firdous

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan on Friday said Pakistan and Turkey enjoyed unique bonds of brotherhood and friendship.

In a tweet, she said that relations of Pakistan and Turkey were rooted in historic religious and cultural ties. Under the dynamic leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Imran Khan bilateral relations were further increasing.

She said that address of Turkish President to the joint sitting of
the parliament for the fourth time, was manifestation of historic relations
between the two countries.

She said that sixth high level Pakistan-Turkish strategic partnership
meeting was proof of increasing cooperation between the two brotherly
nations.

She said Turkey’s unflinching support for Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir
has further enhanced the sentiments of love and respect of Pakistani
people for the Turkish leadership and masses.

She thanked the Turkish leadership for its principled stand on Kashmir
issue. She said that Turkish President’s visit would open new avenues of
bilateral cooperation in economic, trade and cultural fields.

United’s Sultans, a fascinating HBL PSL battle

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LAHORE, Feb 14 (APP):The HBL Pakistan Super League has provided rich cricketing entertainment to fans in the last four seasons.

It began with five franchises in 2016 and Multan Sultans – who represent the city of Saints – joined the T20 league in 2018.

Islamabad United, representing the federal capital, boast two HBL PSL titles, which they bagged in the inaugural edition in 2016 and in 2018.

Sultans, in their two outings, to date, have not been able to make it to the play-off stage. They, however, have provided some real on the field fireworks.

The Shan Masood-led unit have had some thrilling matches and moments with various opponents especially the two-time champions Islamabad United, who will be captained by Shadab Khan this season.

Past results (Played four; United have won two, Sultans have won two):

United had the upper hand against Sultans in the HBL PSL 2018 season. United won both matches between the two sides on their way to the ultimate glory in the final against Peshawar Zalmi in front of a typically loud and impassioned National Stadium on March 25.

The two teams first met on February 25 at the Dubai International Stadium. Sultans were rolled over for a paltry 113 in 19.5 overs after United had asked them to bat first.

United went past the target for the loss of five wickets in 17.4 overs. Left-handed Hussain Talat guided United home with an unbeaten 48 off 34 balls – his innings included four fours and three sixes and he was adjudged man-of-the-match for his match winning effort.

United then won a high-scoring encounter played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on 13 March. Batting first, the victors posted 185 for four on the back of a whirlwind 58 off 36 balls by Luke Ronchi (six fours, three sixes) and a scintillating 46 off 33 balls by Alex Hales. Hussain continued his good form against Sultans, scoring 36 off 21 balls.

Kieron Pollard fought hard for Sultans with a smashing 73 off 47 balls. His innings was studded with five fours and six sixes, but he failed to take his side past the target as United recording a comfortable 33-run win at the end.

Sultans turned the tables on United in the 2019 season by winning both round matches by five and six wickets respectively.

The first match between the two sides of the HBL PSL 2019 season was staged at the Dubai International Stadium on February 16.

Ronchi got United off to a flying start with 51 off 33 balls. His dismissal triggered a collapse as United stuttered to 125 for seven in 20 overs.

Captain Shoaib Malik’s unbeaten 31 helped Sultans surpass the target in the penultimate over of the match for the loss of five wickets.

The return clash was also played at the Dubai International Stadium. The 26 February match was won by Sultans by six wickets as they overhauled the 122-run target for the loss of six wickets with 11 balls to spare. Daniel Christian’s all-round man-of-the-match award winning effort (three wickets and 16 not out) helped Sultans record a comfortable win.

Major players in the two squads for HBL PSL 2020 season:

Two-time champions United have once again assembled a formidable squad that is a real contender for silverware at the HBL PSL 2020. But Sultans too have a very strong combination which will fight United toe-to-toe when the two sides clash in their two group fixtures.

Their first match is scheduled to take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 22. The two teams then play at United’s home ground, Pindi Cricket Stadium, in Rawalpindi on March 8. The battles to look for would be between United’s formidable top-order and Sultans bowling line-up.

United’s batting prowess at the top is led by Ronchi, England’s T20 specialist Dawid Malan (former HBL PSL winner with Peshawar Zalmi), South African Colin Ingram (former Karachi Kings player), New Zealand’s Colin Munro (former Karachi Kings player) and the explosive upcoming left-handed opener Rizwan Hussain.

Sultans’ bowling attack on the other end includes real experience and pedigree in Junaid Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Mohammad Irfan, Shahid Afridi and Imran Tahir. The bowling attack that has tons of T20 international and franchise experience around the world is backed by the raw pace of Mohammad Ilyas (second season for Sultans) and all-rounder Bilawal Bhatti.

Conversely, United also have a richly experienced and capable bowling attack that is led by their captain and leg-spinner Shadab Khan. Shadab will also have the services of South African fast bowling legend Dale Steyn who is set to make his first HBL PSL appearance.

United have to their disposal all-rounder Faheem Ashraf who has been one of the most successful bowlers in the tournament. His 18-wicket haul was one of the major reasons for United’s 2018 title triumph. Pakistan T20 Internationals Musa Khan and Rumman Raees provide pace and guile to the attack.

Sultans though would aim to counter the United bowlers with their own power-packed batting line-up, especially the top-order. The ever-improving Shan Masood leads the Sultans both as captain and opener and he will have England’s explosive James Vince (ICC Cricket World Cup winner with England’s 2019 side) and South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw (HBL PSL winner with Quetta Gladiators).

The Wild Card Platinum category pick Zeeshan Ashraf has the capability of hitting some big sixes at the top of the innings too. The Best Batsman of the National T20 2019-20 2nd XI tournament can be a surprise package for Sultans.

The ever green Afridi can also be called-up anytime to provide fireworks with the bat depending on the situation of the match.

With the spoils equally shared between the two teams so far, the HBL PSL 2020 has the potential of adding more thrilling moments in the United v Sultans rivalry.

All followers should keep an eye on this rivalry, which possesses all the potential to shape into big.

Squads:

Islamabad United:

Platinum – Shadab Khan (captain), Dale Steyn and Colin Ingram
Diamond – Faheem Ashraf, Asif Ali and Colin Munro
Gold – Luke Ronchi, Hussain Talat and Rumman Raees
Silver – Amad Butt, Musa Khan, Rizwan Hussain, Zafar Gohar and Phil Salt
Emerging – Akif Javed and Ahmed Safi Abdullah
Supplementary – Saif Badar and Dawid Malan (Silver)

Multan Sultans:

Platinum – Mohammad Irfan, Moeen Ali and Rilee Rossouw
Diamond – Shahid Afridi, Zeeshan Ashraf and Ravi Bopara
Gold – James Vince, Junaid Khan and Sohail Tanvir
Silver – Ali Shafiq, Shan Masood (captain), Khushdil Shah, Usman Qadir, Fabian Allen (from 7 March) and Wayne Madesn (till 7 March)
Emerging – Mohammad Ilyas and Rohail Nazir
Supplementary – Imran Tahir and Bilawal Bhatti.

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