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Title of ‘CPEC Hero’ for Ahsan Iqbal, a slap on face of malicious characters: Marriyum

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 26 (APP): Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb on Monday felicitated Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal who was given a title of the Hero of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by the Chinese government the other day.

The minister, in a tweet, said ironically, a person whose honesty, dedication, and hard work were acknowledged by a country as esteemed as China, was unjustly thrown into jail during the previous regime’s campaign of political victimization.

She said the title of CPEC hero for Ahsan Iqbal also reflected the effective foreign policy of Pakistan which faced isolation during the four years rule of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Marriyum said Pakistan’s relations, dignity, and stature had been restored at the international stage during the one year of the incumbent government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Pakistani entrepreneurs participate in Algeria International Economic Fair

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Pakistani entrepreneurs participate in Algeria International Economic Fair

ISLAMABAD, Jun 26 (APP): After an absence of 18 years, more than 20 Pakistani businessmen representing 11 companies of various fields such as textile, sportswear, pharmaceutical, and food industries participated in the 54th session of the Algeria International Economic Fair, organized under the high patronage of the President of the Republic of Algeria.

Pakistan’s entrepreneurs’ delegation attended the economic fair under the supervision of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), said a press release issued by the Algerian Embassy in Islamabad on Monday.

The Algeria International Economic Fair was attended by 638 companies, including 473 Algerian companies (157) are public institutions, 316 are private institutions and 165 are foreign from 30 countries in Africa, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Arab region, the statement added.

For the first time, the launch of a digital Algerian salon presents the five strategic sectors that Algeria relies on, to achieve an economic leap outside the hydrocarbon sector, which is represented in all kinds of industrial sectors, agriculture, renewable energies, media technologies, knowledge economy, and the tourism sector.

The statement further said that Pakistani businessmen’ participation was successful and fruitful, a positive opportunity to support the relations of exchange and economic and trade cooperation between the two countries in a distinct context of this year’s celebration. It is also pertinent to mention that 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two brotherly countries Algeria and Pakistan.

Saudi minister hails Pakistani community’s fulfillment of religious duty through devout Hajj pilgrimage

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Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Abdul latif Al-Sheikh

By: Rehan Khan

Makkah, Jun 26 (APP):Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Abdul latif Al-Sheikh on Monday said the Pakistani community, known for its strong Islamic faith, fulfilled their religious duty by embarking on the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj.

He, in a message to Pakistani pilgrims on the eve of Arafah, said the devout Pakistani pilgrims expressed their pride in their religion and eagerly sought to please Allah Almighty through this momentous pillar of Islam.

Minister Al-Sheikh hoped that the Pakistani pilgrims would return home safely, forgiven and blessed. Their journey was filled with prayers, supplications, and acts of devotion, as they aimed to purify their souls and draw closer to Allah Almighty, he emphasized.

He, in the spirit of unity and peace, wished that the Pakistani pilgrims would be granted a smooth and trouble-free journey back to their homeland. “May they be blessed with abundant goodness and protection from any adversities that could potentially dampen their spiritual experience. It is essential for them to remain unaffected by any external influences that might hinder their sincere dedication and commitment to the worship of Allah Almighty, for a truly pure and unadulterated Hajj experience,” he maintained.

He said the pilgrimage, which is considered one of the five pillars of Islam, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide because it serves as a reminder of the equality of all believers, regardless of their background or social status, as they gather in the holy city of Makkah to perform sacred rituals.

He admired that Pakistan, a nation known for its deep-rooted Islamic heritage, takes great pride in its citizens’ participation in this revered journey adding that the entire nation join hands in praying for the safe return of the Pakistani Hajj pilgrims, hoping that their pilgrimage would be accepted by the Allah Almighty.

Minister Al-Sheikh said as the Pakistani pilgrims conclude their Hajj, their hearts are filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude as they have spent days and nights in worship, seeking forgiveness and spiritual elevation. The experiences gained during this holy voyage would undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their lives, fostering a stronger connection with their faith and a deeper understanding of their purpose, he added.

He said it is the fervent hope of all well-wishers that the Pakistani pilgrims return home with pure hearts, cleansed of all sins, and that their sincere efforts are accepted by Allah Almighty adding that may they serve as an inspiration for their fellow countrymen, encouraging them to embark on this sacred journey in the years to come,” he maintained.

“Indeed, the Hajj pilgrimage is a momentous occasion for Muslims around the world, and the Pakistani community’s participation exemplifies their unwavering devotion to Islam. With prayers for their safety and success, the nation eagerly awaits the return of their beloved pilgrims, who will undoubtedly share experience of their spiritual journey, spreading blessings and enlightenment among their fellow countrymen,” he maintained.

Over 49,000 Hajj Pilgrims receive medical care in Madinah

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Over 49,000 Hajj Pilgrims receives medical care in Madinah

ISLAMABAD, Jun 26 (APP): Over 49,000 pilgrims have received medical care services in seasonal health centres and facilities in Madinah since the beginning of the month of Dhul Qaeda, 1444 AH.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has provided comprehensive medical care services to the pilgrims during their stay in the province of Madinah.

Since the beginning of the previous Hijri month, a total of 43,445 pilgrims have received healthcare services in the seasonal health centres near the Prophet’s Mosque and in the central area, as stated by the Ministry of Health, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Furthermore, the emergency departments of hospitals have attended to 5,654 pilgrims during the same period.

The medical services in Madinah have included six open-heart surgeries, 88 cardiac catheterizations, 76 other surgeries, and 134 dialysis sessions. 192,552 pilgrims have received health education and awareness services in their hotels, shelters, shuttle buses, and public facilities.

These medical care services complement the comprehensive services by the government to ensure the highest quality standards are met around the clock at all air and land arrival and departure ports during the Hajj season, according to the Ministry.

The Ministry deploys medical personnel at these ports and offers awareness, educational, and field health guidance services to pilgrims and visitors in Madinah before their departure to Makkah for Hajj. On Saturday, the Ministry launched a medical convoy of 16 ambulances to transport pilgrims admitted to hospitals in Madinah to Jabal Al-Rahma Hospital in the Arafat area.

The convoy has a specialized medical team comprising 83 doctors, nurses, and paramedics. Furthermore, four additional ambulances are stationed on the Hijra Highway that connects Madinah and Makkah.

These ambulances are supported by two ICU ambulances, an integrated oxygen cabin, a mobile first aid unit, and a bus to transport patients’ escorts.

CDNS to launch four Shariah compliant product from July 1st

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Mohammad Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD, Jun 26 (APP): Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Monday reiterated firm resolve of the government to implement Shariah Compliant financial system to promote and encourage interest-free Islamic banking and finance in the country.

Addressing the launching ceremony of the Shariah Compliant products by the Central Directorate of National Saving (CDNS), the minister said the directorate has designed and introduced Shariah-compliant investment and saving scheme which would be formally launched by July 1, 2023.

In a first, the minister said the CDNS has launched four investment and saving products based on one-year, three-year and five-year terms, besides initiating saving account facility, adding that it is a flexible scheme with monthly profit and to withdraw principle amount that would encourage savings and ensure full returns.

Ishq Dar informed that soon after assuming the charge as finance minister, he had directed the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) to withdraw their petitions against the decision of the Federal Shariah Court in which the Court had ordered to implement interest-free banking and financing system in the country.

Meanwhile, a high power steering committee headed by the Governor SBP was formed to find ways and means to promote Shariah-compliant financial system in the country. The committee was comprised of other prominent scholars and experts from the banking and finance sectors.

He said during the last tenure of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government, a committee was also constituted, which had taken several steps and produced positive results as due to these efforts, the spread of Islamic banking grew by 21 percent, adding that the balance sheets of banks with Shariah Compliant finance products witnessed a remarkable increase.

The minister said the government had recently promised to introduce Islamic finance products, adding in this regard all the concerned departments of the Ministry of Finance and other attached departments worked hard to materialize the commitment.
Besides, all the commitments made in the federal budget 2023-24 would be fulfilled one by one to achieve sustainable economic growth and social prosperity in the country, he added.

Promotion of agro-based industry vital: Tasneem Qureshi

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Promotion of agro-based industry vital: Tasneem Qureshi

SARGODHA, Jun 26 (APP):State Minister for Production and Industries Tasneem Ahmed Qureshi Monday stressed the need for promotion of the agro-based industry.

He said agro-industry contributes to GDP, earns foreign exchange through exports, promotes rural development, ensures food security, and adds value to agricultural products.


Talking to APP, he said a strong and vibrant agro-based industry was crucial for sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction and overall developments.


He said the agro-based industry was crucial for ensuring food security in Pakistan. With a growing population, it is essential to have a robust agricultural sector that could produce an adequate quantity of food to meet the domestic demand, he added.

He said value-added products from the agro-based industry, such as processed foods, textiles, leather goods, and pharmaceuticals, had a higher value in both domestic and international markets, contributing to higher revenues and economic growth.


He said agriculture had long been the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, employing a large portion of the population that encompasses various sectors, including crop production, livestock farming, dairy, poultry, fisheries, and food processing.

Hot, humid weather with windstorm, isolated heavy falls likely in KP

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Hot, humid weather with windstorm, isolated heavy falls likely in KP
APP26-100822 NARAN: August 10 - A beautiful view of Naran valley in upper Kaghan Valley of Mansehra district. Naran & Kaghan valley is famous tourist destination, owing to its pleasant weather in summer every year thousands of tourists rush to explore the valley .APP Photo by Qasim Ghauri

PESHAWAR, Jun 26 (APP):The Provincial Meteorological Center Peshawar on Monday predicted hot, humid and cloudy weather over most districts of the province.

However, it said that dust/wind-thunderstorm-rain with isolated heavy falls is likely to occur in Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Battagram, Torghar, Kohistan, Shangla, Chitral, Lower & Upper Dir, Swat, Buner, Malakand, Bajaur, Mohmand, Mardan, Swabi, Nowshera, Charsadda, Peshawar, Khyber, Kohat, Hangu, Karak, Orakzai, Kurram, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, D.I. Khan, North & South Waziristan districts.

Dust storm/winds-thunderstorm and heavy falls may cause damage to infrastructures like electric poles, solar panels etc. in the province.

Heavy rain may cause urban flooding in low lying areas of Peshawar and may trigger landslides in the vulnerable areas of Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram, Torghar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Kurram and Khyber districts.

The general public is advised to stay at safe places during dust/wind-thunderstorm and heavy rain/hailstorm. All concerned authorities are advised to remain ALERT during the forecast period.

During the last 24 hours very hot and humid weather prevailed in the province. However, dust/thunderstorm-rain occurred at most places in the province.

Rain recorded (in mm): Takht Bhai 81, Risalpur 45, Bannu 41, Balakot 36, Kakul 25, Peshawar ( Peshawar City 22 & Peshawar Airport 20), Bajaur (Khaar 19, Pashat 15), Kohat Airbase 15, Cherat 11, Pattan 10, Dir 08, Buner 04, Saidu Sharif & Malamjaba 03 (each), Timergara, D. I. Khan Airport & Ghalanai-Mohmand 02 (each), Tirah-Khyber & D. I. Khan City Trace (each).

Max wind recorded (in Kilometer per hour): Peshawar (City 55, Airport 50), Dera Ismail Khan City 25
The maximum and minimum temperatures recorded in centigrade at different stations of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were Peshawar City 41/23, Chitral 40/24,Timergara 39/25, Dir 36/20, Mirkhani 42/24, Kalam 31/13, Drosh 42/24, Saidu Sharif 37/24, Pattan 41/25, Malam Jabba 25/17, Takht Bhai 39/22, Kakul 33/19, Balakot 38/20, Parachinar 33/17, Bannu 42/19, Cherat 37/20, D.I. Khan 43/24.

The highest temperature recorded in the province was 43°C at Dera Ismail Khan city.

Currency rates of NBP

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Currency rates

KARACHI, Jun 26 (APP):Following are the selling/buying rates of major currencies issued by the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), here on Monday.

CURRENCY SELLING BUYING
USD 290.12 283.88
GBP 369.38 361.38
EUR 316.49 310.17


JPY 2.0226 1.9790
SAR 77.36 75.67
AED 79.01 77.80

Saudi media minister affirms strong fraternal relations with Pakistan, calls it ‘his country’

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By: Rehan Khan

MAKKAH, Jun 26 (APP):Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Media, Salman Al-Dosari, expressed his deep bond with Pakistan, referring to it as his country, while emphasizing that Saudi Arabia serves as a second home for Pakistanis.

During a comprehensive meeting held in Mina the other day, the Minister engaged with a delegation of Pakistani journalists, underscoring the strong fraternal relations between the two nations.

Al-Dosari conveyed his heartfelt sentiment that Pakistanis are considered brothers, and Saudi Arabia welcomes them as a second home.
Recognizing the importance of fostering bilateral cooperation in the media sector, Salman Al-Dosari highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with Pakistani media.

Emphasizing the significance of mutual collaboration, he affirmed that both countries are actively promoting this alliance.
In response, the Pakistani delegation expressed sincere appreciation to the Saudi authorities and government for the impeccable arrangements made for Hajj 2023.

After a three-year hiatus, this year’s Hajj was held in its full glory, and the delegation conveyed their gratitude for the excellent management of the sacred pilgrimage.

They said the reaffirmation of close ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, coupled with efforts to enhance media cooperation, exemplifies the commitment of both nations to further strengthen their relationship.

The Pakistani delegation was comprised of Abdul Qayyum Bokhari of GTV, Sanaullah Khan of DWAN, Syed Savez Ali of BOL, Ayaz Khan of Express, Hafiz Tariq of SAMA and Rehan Khan of APP.

Largest-ever Victoria-Pakistan Friendship Group set up at Australia’s Parliament of Victoria

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Pakistan’s High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri

MELBOURNE (Australia), June 26 (APP):The largest-ever Victoria-Pakistan Friendship Group, set up at Australia’s 60th Parliament of Victoria, will help strengthen cooperation between the two countries, Pakistan’s High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said Monday.

Speaking to the members of the Parliamentary Friendship Group, the Pakistani diplomat said the participation of a large number of members of the Australian Parliament including Ministers and Shadow Ministers in the Group was a testament to further strengthening of friendly relations between Pakistan and Australia.

The High Commissioner underscored that the presence of over 25,000 strong Pakistani diaspora acted as a “strong bridge between Pakistan and the State of Victoria”.

He lauded the efforts of Consul General Moazzam Ali Shah and Honorary Trade and Investment Counsellor Adam Sadiqzai for their efforts towards establishing the Parliamentary Friendship Group.

The cross-party Friendship Group comprises 34 members from both Houses of Parliament: The Legislative Assembly and The Legislative Council.

The Parliamentary Friendship Group is co-convened by Jordan Crugnale, MP from the Australian Labour Party and Sam Groth, MP, Shadow Minister for Tourism, Sports and Events, and Shadow Minister for Youth from the Liberal Party of Australia.

The other Honourable members of the Group inter alia include Wendy Lovell, MP, Deputy President of the Legislative Council; Matt Fregon, MP, Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly; Anthony Carbines, MP, Minister for Police, Crime Prevention, Racing; Natalie Suleyman, MP, Minister for Veterans, Minister for Youth, Minister for Small Business; Mary Anne Thomas, MP, Minister for Health; Lily D’ Ambrosio, MP, Minister for Climate Action, Energy and Resources; Colin Brooks, MP, Minister for Housing and Multicultural Affairs; and Stephen McGhie, MP, Cabinet Secretary.

The cooperation between Pakistan and the State of Victoria continues to grow in multiple areas including trade, education, agriculture, and sports. Given the importance that Pakistan attaches to its relations with the State of Victoria, it has opened a Consulate General in Melbourne and appointed an Honorary Trade and Investment Counsellor for Victoria.

It may be recalled that last year largest ever Australia-Pakistan Friendship Group was established in the 47th Parliament of Australia after the General Elections held in May 2022.