ISLAMABAD, Feb 10 (APP):An exhibition of exquisite calligraphic art by master artists was concluded here Sunday at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) featuring stunning collection for art lovers of the federal capital.
Around 100 calligraphies were part of the show by the artists from Iran and Pakistan capturing similarities of art in Iran and Pakistan. The event was organized by the Cultural Consulate of Embassy of Iran in collaboration with PNCA to mark the 40th Anniversary of the Glorious Victory of Islamic Revolution of Iran.
Besides display of exquisite Iranian calligraphy, artists from Iran and Pakistan also conducted a 2-day calligraphy workshop to create the understanding of the similarities of calligraphic techniques among the young and up-coming artists.
These artists included master Calligrapher Rasheed Butt, Elahi Baksh Matee and Nasir Seemab from Pakistan and Ahmed Ali Barooti (Calligrapher), Ehsan Muhammed Pour (Designer) from Iran.
Iranian calligraphy is the most revered arts throughout history of Iran and it is one of the most eye catching and fascinating manifestations of Iranian culture in post-Islam period.
Iran has played the most significant role in the evolution of calligraphy. A national feature of Iranian Muslims has been known as the perseverance in learning to write beautifully. To Iranians, it meant the manifesting point of human spirituality where a pure writing was regarded as originated from a pure heart.
This exhibition will play vital role towards understanding the
art and culture being practiced in Iran and help strengthen existing
friendly ties between Pakistan and Iran, both the nations have rich heritage and cultural traditions with intellectual treasure and inspirational legacies, said Director General PNCA, Jamal Shah about the show.
Art is an international language and has no boundaries. It is
an excellent tool to curb negativity prevailing in our surrounding and
also an effective instrument to enhance diplomatic and cordial ties
amongst different nations of the world, he said, adding, calligraphy is an expression of art that brings people closer to each other and all countries respect the art of calligraphy. Ideas of peace can be promoted through this art and this exhibition was an important event that will bring positive results.
Calligraphy show by master artists concluded
PMYA to luanch Kamyab Jawan Program
ISLAMABAD, Feb 10 (APP):Prime Minister’s Youth Affairs has planned to develop a “Kamyab Jawan Program” in collaboration with Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA).
The program is meant to create 1 million job opportunities through SME sector which would economically empower youth.
Abdual Rasheed, an official said that in this program SMEDA will find the top most business ventures in the local and international market.
SMEDA will also educate and facilitate the youth to provide training in development cycle, he informed.
He further said that vocational and technical training will be given under SMEDA.
He said that PM’s Youth Affairs would extend its maximum support for improving technical and vocational training to youth.
PM’s youth Affairs will extend its facilities for maximum youth for creating more employment opportunities in market place, he remarked.
Provincial-level regulatory frameworks be evolved for groundwater access: WB
ISLAMABAD, Feb 10 (APP):The World Bank (WB) has recommended Pakistan to establish provincial level regulatory frameworks for a better management of groundwater access.
A recent report titled “Pakistan:Getting More from Water”, published by the World Bank said that the capacity of provincial water resources management departments should be strengthened for groundwater management and conjunctive planning.
The report also recommended to strengthen water user associations (WUAs) for local-scale monitoring and management of groundwater resources in line with agreed conjunctive water management
plans besides building capacity of the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) for basin-scale modeling and analysis of surface water–groundwater interactions.
At policy level, the report suggested to develop conjunctive water management plans at the district level that focus on building drought resilience.
Given the growing problems of groundwater depletion in some areas and waterlogging and salinization in others, there is a big opportunity to adopt active conjunctive planning and management of surface water and groundwater, the report said adding while this needs to be coordinated at the provincial level, planning and implementation should happen at the district level.
Conjunctive use can improve climate resilience by using the storage capacity of aquifers. It can improve equity of water access, water use efficiency, and water productivity.
This will require new regulatory frameworks to clarify the legal basis for groundwater access, and the legal responsibility and authority for groundwater regulation.
It will also require capacity building within provincial government agencies and support to water user associations and farmer organizations to facilitate implementation of conjunctive plans.
Meanwhile the report also proposed to construct limited new storage and review reservoir operations saying that the widely held view is that water management in Pakistan is greatly constrained by inadequate storage, however the evidence does not support this view.
Given the current low productivity of water in Pakistan, it is not possible to justify expensive major storages on the economics of irrigation alone.
Nonetheless, sedimentation reduces existing live storage, and climate change will increase flow variability, making it more difficult to match supply and demand.
Multipurpose reservoirs, which can be economically justified by hydropower,should be constructed.
These will help to manage increasing flood risks and help to improve the reliability of rabi irrigation supply. Diamer Bhasha, upstream of Tarbela, will reduce the sediment load to Tarbela, thus extending its life.
The operating procedures for Tarbela and Mangla should be subject to periodic review. Changing demand patterns and flood regimes, the opportunity to better manage sediment loads, and the increasing important of delivering a manage environmental flow regime mean revised operating procedures are probably required to better balance across these multiple objectives.
A detailed modeling and optimization analysis should be undertaken to explore alternative operating procedures under historical and potential future inflow regimes.
It said reservoir standard operating procedures should be reviewed and revised based on detailed modeling and analysis besides strengthening of capacity at WAPDA and IRSA to enable periodic reviews of operating procedures and to support a multi-objective approach to operations.
Moreover it also suggested to secure financing for construction of Diamer Bhasha Dam and associated power generation and distribution infrastructure.
High representative of MAPIM attended Conference on Kashmir at British Parliament
LONDON, Feb 10 (APP):Syekh Datuk Seri Ahmad Awang, a representative of the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organization (MAPIM), and Chairman of International Alliance of World Masjid, has attended the London Conference on Kashmir, which was held at the British Parliament, and organized by All Parties Parliamentary Group on Pakistan (APPG) on February 4, 2019, a statement of Pakistan High Commission issued here said.
According to the statement, MAPIM is a conglomeration of over 200 NGOs with affiliation in 21 countries which has remained concerned on the plight of Kashmiri Muslims in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IoK).
The Pakistan High Commission statement, quoting President of MAPIM, Haji Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said that his organiztion in the recent past, had organized a number of events in an expression of solidarity with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their efforts towards their right to self-determination and bravely facing the brutalities perpetrated by the Indian forces with impunity for many decades.
MAPIM President said “We have noted that tens of thousands of Kashmiri Muslims have been martyred including women, men, boys, girls, old and young ones over decades. We appreciate all such efforts as the one organized by APPG on Pakistan by the British Parliamentarians to highlight the grave human rights situation in IoK”.
The spirit behind representation by MAPIM from Malaysia, which involved more than 20 hours of travelling and a long distance,he said was solely to attend the Kashmir event, to reassure our Kashmiri brothers and sisters in IoK that “we are with them and we will do everything in our capacity to stop bloodshed of Kashmiris immediately and ensure delivery of justice to them by taking steps that lead to bringing the perpetrators to account”.
Kashmiri-Americans call for freedom & justice in Kashmir at rally near White House
NEW YORK, Feb 10 (APP):Hundreds of Kashmiri-Americans and their friends staged a demonstration in Washington protesting against the ongoing human rights violations in Indian occupied Kashmir and demanding the exercise of their UN-promised right to self-determination.
According to a press release, speakers at the rally, which took place in front of the White House, urged the United States to persuade India and Pakistan to initiate a peace process along with the leadership of the people of Kashmir.
The demonstrators raised vociferous slogans of “Indian Forces: Out of Kashmir”, “No justice: No Peace” , “Freedom for all: Freedom for Kashmir”, and “India State of Fear: Not Fair”, the press release said.
Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Secretary-General of the World Kashmir Awareness Forum, called for a win-win solution for all in resolving the decades-old dispute after establishing a set of principles underscoring commitment to human rights, the interests of the Kashmiris as well as the vital interests of both India and Pakistan.
Fai paid glowing tributes to the memory of Kashmiri activists Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat, whom he called an iconic and charismatic leader who struggled tirelessly for the right of self-determination of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Bhat’s selfless contribution to the cause of Kashmir will inspire generations to come, he added.
Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chowdhary, former Prime Minister of Azad Kashmi,r said that the resolution of Kashmir issue could have enabled both Pakistan and India to spend their resources more on the development of their people rather than on defence.
He praised the Pakistani and Kashmiri American community for being the ambassadors of peace in the United States for the cause of Kashmir. Given a chance, Kashmiris could be instrumental in encouraging peace and stability not only in the sub-continent, but in Afghanistan as well, he said, while noting the views of many experts of international relations that the key to peace and stability in Afghanistan lies in Kashmir.
Barrister Chowdhry said that the United States has a moral responsibility to persuade both India and Pakistan to settle the Kashmir conflict through a meaningful dialogue.
Professor Imtiaz Khan, President of the Kashmiri American Council, said that the people of Kashmir gave a resounding rebuff to Indian Prime Miniter Narendra Modi during his recent visit to Kashmir. Modi had the mortification of seeing empty streets and shuttered shops, which even the Indian press reported.
“This clearly showed that people of Kashmir have rejected Indian occupation, and expressed unequivocally their desire to take their struggle to its logical conclusion,” Imtiaz Khan said. He also emphasized that Kashmiris are giving huge sacrifices for attaining freedom and it was the obligation of the diaspora and all other people who share their sentiments to educate the masses in United States and other countries about the Kashmir problem and ongoing atrocities in that region.
Ali S. Khan, Executive Director of the Kashmiri Scandinavian Council, said that Kashmir’s painful situation is a rebuke to the world powers for their passivity. The world powers need to know that unless India accepts the ground realities, the dispute will fester; and that any solution must satisfy democratic principles, the rule of law, and security for every inhabitant of Kashmir.
Saleem Bukhari, an activist from Srinagar, said that Hurriyet Conference rejects any settlement within the framework of the Constitution of India but binds it to accept an alternative negotiated settlement among all the three parties – India, Pakistan and Kashmiri leadership – provided it reflects the will and aspirations of the people of the disputed state.
Sardar Imtiaz Khan, an activist from New Jersey, said were India to allow a referendum in Kashmir, it would prove to the world that it too is a great democratic country, and not the persistent and militaristic oppressor that it has become.
Sardar Taj Khan said Kashmiris are a nation with their distinctive culture and civilization. They have sacrificed over a hundred thousand lives for the liberation of their homeland, nobody should even think of ignoring them.
Amna Habib said that the people of Kashmir
believe that human rights lose value when the enforcement is selective. Therefore, they demand an impartial investigation so that culprits are brought to justice. Such an investigation has to be done by a neutral and international agency, like the United Nations.
Tooba Niaz said that the United States must understand that Kashmiris crave only what every American covets: human rights, democratic values, peace and justice, and believe that Washington’s successes elsewhere could be duplicated in Kashmir with persistence, moral suasion, and statesmanship.
Sardar Zubair Khan said that the Kashmiri people could be instrumental in providing a way out of this cycle of violence and period of uncertainty, only if they can be trusted.
Sardar Zarif Khan said that India has defied United Nations Security Council resolutions for more than 71 years because she knows Kashmiris will never vote in her favour. It was time for Pakistan and India both to get serious about talks, he said.
Iqbal Chand Doddy said he firmly believe that the only way to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution to the Kashmir crisis in through dialogue and negotiations. There can be no solution to the conflict without the participation of the leadership of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Raja Liaqat Kiyani welcomed the audience for coming from distances to attend this important event. Kashmir deserves the attention of the world powers and efforts would be made to mobilize the public opinion to make it happen.
Sardar Sajid Sawar Khan said Kashmir dispute is about the right of self-determination of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. The people should be the makers of their destiny, and not an alien power – India.
Sardar Zahid Khan said that the
Indian army is responsible for many untold atrocities but one thing is quite clear that she could not break the will of the people for their right of self-determination.
Imtiaz Malik believed that freedom of expression and transparency to international human rights monitors are the most practicable steps that India might be urged to undertake in Kashmir to deter human rights violations and to develop a culture of restraint within the military forces.
Sardar Zukfiqar Roshan Khan emphasized that Kashmir was a flash point between the two nuclear-armed countries of India and Pakistan
He added
that it was their duty to support the people of Kashmir who are struggling for their right to self-determination.
Others who spoke included: Haji Shafi, Raja Mukhtar, Mushtaq Khan, Sardar Younis, Raja Sabir, Aftab Shah, Shafiq Shah, Sikender Sahib, Mrs. Tayyiba, Akram Butt and others.
Activities of AMAN-19 continue: Naval Chief visits foreign navies ships
KARACHI, Feb 10 (APP):Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi visited ships of foreign navies participating in Multinational Exercise AMAN-19 here on Sunday.
Upon his arrival onboard foreign visiting ships, the Naval Chief was
warmly welcomed by senior officers/commanding officers of respective ships and was presented the guard of honour by smartly dressed out contingents.
The Naval Chief visited participating ships of Australia, China,
Italy, Malaysia, Oman, Sri Lanka, Turkey and U.K. where he held
interactions with senior officers/commanding officers.During discussions, the Naval Chief highlighted that Pakistan Navy
has always been a forerunner in quest for collaborative security in this region of immense strategic importance and AMAN series of exercises are anchored on this concept.
The Admiral further expressed that camaraderie generated herein will
grow in future and shall bring us closer to the mutual goal of regional peace and prosperity.
He also appreciated their participation in AMAN Exercise to fulfill
common resolve of “Together for Peace”.
Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi interacted with foreign media reps
during his visit and responded to their questions.
The senior officers/commanding officers of the respective ships,
highly acknowledged the strenuous efforts of Pakistan Navy by bringing together global navies towards shared commitment of maritime peace, stability and lawful order at sea.
Chief of the Naval Staff had interaction with the crew of visiting
ships and appreciated their professionalism and morale.
During the other activities of the day, Lt General Edzai Absalom
Tafadzwa Chanyuka Chimonyo Commander Zimbabwe National Army laid floral wreath at Mazar-e-Quaid followed by visit to Joint Maritime Information
Coordination Centre, Pakistan Naval Academy and Pakistan Navy
Ship Shamsheer.
Vice Admiral Alexandru Mirsu Ph.D Chief of Romanian Naval Forces
visited Pakistan Navy Ship Saif and also called on Commander Pakistan
Fleet Vice Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi.
Maritime security challenges and opportunities remained in focus on
the second day of 8th International Maritime Conference 2019. 1st and 2nd sessions were graced by Vice Admiral Kaleem Shaukat Vice Chief of Naval Staff and Dr. Masuma Hasan, Chairman Pakistan Institute of International Affairs as Chief Guests respectively. Whereas, Lt General Afgan Taghiyev Veli Chief of Coast Guard State Border Service Azerbaijan and Vice Admiral Alexandru Mirsu Ph.D Chief of Romanian Naval Forces attended as Guests of Honour.Friendly sports matches between officers and men of participating countries and Pakistan Navy were also held during the day.
In order to provide an opportunity to witness diverse cultures of
participating countries, an International Food Gala and Cultural Show
was also organized for officers and sailors showcasing food stalls and cultural items.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah graced the occasion as chief guest.
A large number of personnel from participating navies, observers,
foreign diplomats and senior officials of Pakistan Armed
Forces attended the event.
PTI-PML-Q differences not irreconcilable: Naeem-ul-Haq
LAHORE, Feb 10 (APP):Special Assistant to Prime Minister Naeem-ul-Haq Saturday said differences between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Q (PML-Q) were not irreconcilable.
Talking to media-persons after meeting with PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain at the latter’s residence here, he said he met the PML-Q leader on the directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan. The PTI would take its allies both at Centre and provinces along, he said.Naeem-ul-Haq said the government would take benefit of Chaudhry Shujaat’s political acuman in all matters.
To a question, he said the PTI government was against all kinds of violence, whether it was at a police station or a Madrasa (religious seminary) as it was against the Islamic teachings.
About the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), he said there was a need to bring about changes in the laws. The business community had complaints that NAB used delayed cases as they felt some kind of harassment. The delay in dispensation of justice was not good for the nation, he added.
Responding to another question, Naeem-ul-Haq said there was need to improve NAB’s performance. The government would work with all the political parties to introduce changes in the NAB law. As per the NAB law, it was mandatory to decide a case within 30 days, he added.
He said opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif’s appointment as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chairman was not a result of blackmailing. In fact, the government wanted to make 38 committees of the National Assembly (NA) functional, while the opposition had refused to let that happen without the formation of the PAC, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain rejected all the rumours regarding any split in PTI-PML-Q alliance, saying his party supported the PTI led government. Both the parties had pledged to stand united and their alliance would last for five years, he added.
The PTI, he said, had given due share to the PML-Q in the government. Imran Khan as Prime Minister was need of the hour for the country, he added.
To a query, he said the PML-Q would not become part of any conspiracy against Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar and would stand with him in the face of all challenges.
Indiscriminate accountability process continues in country: Sarwar
MULTAN, Feb 10 (APP)::Punjab Governor Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar Sunday said an across the board and indiscriminate accountability process was continuing in the country.
It was evident from the arrest of Punjab’s Senior Minister Aleem Khan by the National Accountability Bureau, who had even resigned from his office to face allegations, he said talking to media-persons after inaugurating a water filtration plant installed by “Sarwar Foundation” here at the district jail.
Whenever he was called, Aleem Khan had presented himself before NAB, the governor added.He said NAB was investigating allegations against three ministers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, which had not so far been proved.
Chaudhry Sarwar said the Foundation was ensuring facility of clean drinking water and free hepatitis medicines to the inmates of all prisons in the country.
He said it had also initiated a unique step to for the release of those prisoners, who had been facing imprisonment due to non-payment of fine amount by paying their outstanding dues. Skills training such as stitching of clothes was also being imparted to female prisoners by the Foundation so that they could earn their livelihood after their release, he added.
To a question, the governor said Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar, who belonged to a backward area, was a good choice of Prime Minister Imran Khan. He was running the administrative matters effectively with consensus of his cabinet ministers and assembly members, he added.
He said the economic crisis was the biggest challenge and the incumbent government had overcome it without getting help from the International Monetary Fund. The problems being faced by the country today were because of the wrong economic policies and other decisions taken by the regimes during the last 70 years, he added.
The governor said the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government had retrieved state land of 2500 acres in Nankana Sahib, which had been under illegal occupation of grabbers for the last 70 years.
He said it was a new Pakistan, where the government had no influence on any department.
Chaudhry Sarwar said with the establishment of sub-secretariat in South Punjab on July 1, the devolution of power would facilitate the local people. A special committee of ‘Sooba Mahaaz’ had been formed to make all-out efforts for the creation of South Punjab, he added.
To another question, the governor said consensus was being developed among all the stakeholders for the office building of sub-secretariat in South Punjab.
He said the Pakistan Muslim League-Q had no major differences with the PTI. Ups and downs in the relations between the coalition partners were a routine matter, he added.
Punjab Minister for Prisons Chaudhry Zawar Hussain Warraich, Minister for Energy Dr Akhtar Malik, Parliamentary Secretary Nadeem Qureshi and others were also present on the occasion.
PTI govt working for human investment, tourism promotion: State Minister
LAHORE, Feb 10 (APP):Minister of State for Climate Change Zartaj Gul has said Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government was working for betterment of various sectors including human investment, tourism, youth and culture.
She was talking to the media after inaugurating an
exhibition, held to pay tributes to Syed Sadequain Ahmad Naqvi, renowned calligrapher and painter, on his 32nd death anniversary.
She said, “Sadequain do not need any recognition but when we talk about him, we get recognized.”
Sadequain’s painting, Arz-o-Samawat, his murals, his illustrations of classical Urdu literature, especially the
poetry of Ghalib, Iqbal and Faiz on canvas needed to be projected at international level, she added.
Lahore Museum is best place for today’s event as it would help revive museum as well, she added.The state minister said that youngsters should visit museum as it was the best way to get familiar with art
and history of the country.
“A nation, which forgets its language, culture and does not remember its legends, it becomes tongueless”, she added.Zartaj further said that artists were our face, our identity as they project Pakistan through their work.
She said there was need to promote positivity adding that Pakistan is now open and it was essential to show country’s hospitality to the world.
She said that the PTI government could not be toppled on anybody’s wish, adding that the incumbent government would complete its five-year term and with the grace of Allah Almighty it would again come to power for another five years.
To a question, she said as Abdul Aleem Khan set an example through his resignation, Shahbaz Sharif should also resign from the chairmanship of Public Accounts Committee.
Ministry to hold Science Expo and conference from Feb 11-13
ISLAMABAD, Feb 10 (APP):Federal Ministry of Science and Technology has planned to arrange three-day activities including conference on “Higher Education in Science and Technology for Socio-Economic Development of Pakistan” and “Science and Technology Expo” from February 11-13.
The event will be arranged at Pakistan Council Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), Lahore, an official in the ministry told APP.
The conference will revolve around the linkages between adaption of best practices by sharing the success stories of universities of Pakistan which leads to Domestic Education Policy Reforms, Economic Growth, Sustainable Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The official informed that the objective behind arranging this expo is to realize and emphasize upon the public mission and potential of higher education in Pakistan and facilitate the engagement between academic institutions, industry, policy makers and leadership to share and recommend best practices.
The event will provide an interdisciplinary platform for all the stakeholders of the society like education policy makers, researchers, industry and social sector representatives to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends and concerns pertinent to higher education.
The two-day conference will be held from February 11-12 and comprise over two technical sessions on the theme “Curriculum: current trends in science and technology over emerging needs” and bridging gap to enhance quality education in science and technology” with experts from various leading universities and departments.
The Science and Technology Expo will start from February 12-13 where the innovative science products will be exhibited.
The expo will be open for the students from different educational institutions, the official added.
These activities being arranged by the ministry after a long time will serve as catalyst to promote the local scientific products and provide a platform to the scientists to share their expertise.
Regional experts to meet Monday to strategize against drug abuse in educational institutions
ISLAMABAD, Feb 10 (APP):Pakistan will host a two-day high-level meeting of experts here Monday to promote exchange of experiences and good practices among regional countries to effectively counter the common challenge of drug abuse in schools, colleges and universities
Themed “Preventing Drug Abuse in Educational Settings: Fostering Regional Cooperation and Partnership”, the meeting will be held at the Foreign Ministry from February 11-12.
Senior officials from regional countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan will participate. Representatives of Islamabad-based diplomatic missions will also attend the opening session on Monday.
This meeting is being convened pursuant to a resolution on this theme presented by Pakistan in March 2018 at the Vienna based UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), later endorsed by UN General Assembly. The meeting would be followed by one-day training session on the same theme.
The training session is designed to strengthen the capacities of relevant national stakeholders, including law enforcement, education and health authorities to respond, based on a concerted approach, to drug abuse in educational settings.
The two events are being organized through a joint initiative of Foreign Office, Ministry of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Ministry of Health Services Regulations and Coordination, Higher Education Commission and Anti-Narcotics Force of Pakistan. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in particular the Office’s Regional Programme for Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries, and the EU have partnered in this endeavor.
Holding of these events underscores the importance and commitment Pakistan attaches to fostering regional cooperation and partnerships on issues of common interest.
US Muslim inmate executed after denial of his request for Imam at his side
NEW YORK, Feb 10 (APP):A Muslim inmate, who argued his religious rights were violated because the US state of Alabama would not allow his Imam by his side at his execution, has been put to death, according to media reports on Saturday.
Domineque Hakim Ray, a 42-years-old African-American man, was pronounced dead on Thursday of a lethal injection at the state prison in Atmore, Alabama.
UNICEF ‘deeply saddened’ by Israeli killing of Palestinian teens
UNITED NATIONS, Feb 10 (APP):The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed sorrow over the recent killing of two Palestinian teenage boys by Israeli gunfire in the Gaza Strip, and called for an end to violence against children.”UNICEF is deeply saddened by the killing of two children, aged 13 and 17 years old, shot yesterday in the Gaza Strip,” UNICEF said in a statement on Saturday, noting that the number of Palestinian children killed this year now risen to four.
“This is another stark reminder of the significant violence that children in the State of Palestine continue to endure,” UNICEF said. “As we mark 30 years since the Convention on the Rights of the Child, it is essential that the fundamental rights of children be respected,” it said.
“It is time that violence against children ends. For years, children in the State of Palestine and Israel have suffered not only physically but have also borne the brunt emotionally.
“Children are children. They must be protected at all times. Children should never be a target. Nor should they be exposed to any form of violence, by any party.”
Foreign dignitaries discuss matters of mutual interest with Naval Chief
KARACHI, Feb 09 (APP):Various activities of three-day Multinational
Maritime Exercise “AMAN 19” continue the 2nd day, here on Saturday.
During the proceedings of the day, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral
Zafar Mahmood Abbasi was called on by Lt General Edzai Absalom
Tafadzwa Chanyuka Chimonyo Commander Zimbabwe National Army, Vice Admiral Alexandru Mirsu Ph.D. Chief of Romanian Naval Forces, Lt General Afgan Taghiyev Veli Chief of Coast Guard State Border Service Azerbaijan and Admiral (Retd) William A.Owens of USA in separate meetings.During the meetings matters of mutual interest including defence
related collaborations and maritime security dynamics were discussed.
The Naval chief also thanked the dignitaries for participation in
Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN 19 to enhance the collaborative
efforts for peace and security.
The Naval chief highlighted Pakistan Navy’s efforts for ensuring
maritime security and peace in the region through Regional Maritime
Security Patrol and regular bilateral/ multilateral engagements with other countries.
The dignitaries highly appreciated and acknowledged Pakistan Navy’s
efforts and focused commitments in support of collaborative maritime security in the region and conduct of the Exercise.
Military dignitaries from Royal Saudi Naval Forces and Turkish Navy
called on Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Kaleem Shaukat.
Representatives of all foreign participants of the Exercise AMAN-19
laid wreath at Shuhada Monument at PN Dockyard to pay homage for their sacrifices.
In tandem, three-day International Maritime Conference organized on
the theme of ‘Global Geopolitics in Transition: Rethinking Maritime
Dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region’ under the auspices of National Institute of Maritime Affairs also commenced today.
Friendly sports matches between officers and men of participating
countries and Pakistan Navy were also organized which included cricket, basketball and shooting.
In addition, as a part of ongoing Multinational Exercise AMAN-19,
Special Operations Forces of Pakistan Navy presented an impressive
Maritime Counter Terrorism Demonstration here at PNS QASIM Manora.
Governor Sindh Imran Ismail graced the occasion as chief guest.
The counter terrorism demonstrated was a fine display of strength
and specialized skills by Special Operations Forces of Pakistan Navy to counter acts of maritime terrorism, refine special operating procedures, exchange of professional expertise and to enhance interoperability with participating SOF teams.
The special demonstration of Pakistan Navy assets and their
capabilities included Dolphin Maneuvers by Special Fast Boats (SFBs), Fast Boat Recovery, Advance Fire Arms Drills, Static Line Para Jumps, Clearance Ops, Insertion of SOF Teams & Marines Platoon to Hover Craft, Bomb Burst by Helos and Free Fall Jumps etc.
Earlier, an International Bands display was also presented by the
bands of participating countries of AMAN 19, aiming to connect the
countries through cultural heritage as well.
The military bands from Sri Lanka, Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy,
Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Rangers played a mix of their traditional and military tunes. The enchanting melodies mesmerized the audience and were really appreciated.
A large number of personnel of the participating navies, observers,
foreign diplomats and senior officials of armed forces of Pakistan
witnessed the Counter terrorism demonstration and Bands display.
PM to pay daylong Dubai visit to attend World Govt Summit Sunday
ISLAMABAD, Feb 9 (APP):Prime Minister Imran Khan is scheduled to pay a day long visit of Dubai on Sunday (February 10) at the invitation of Ruler of Emirate of Dubai Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum to participate in the 7th edition of the World Government Summit.This annual gathering of heads of state and government, policy makers, business leaders and experts would provide an occasion to discuss current and future opportunities to improve governance through reform, innovation and technology, said a PM Office statement.
The prime minister’s participation would underscore Pakistan’s strong interest in the knowledge economy, artificial intelligence, green development and the importance of innovation for growth.
In his keynote address at the summit, the prime minister would highlight his vision for a strong and prosperous Pakistan. He would encourage the investment in different sectors of Pakistan’s economy.
During the visit, the prime minister is also scheduled to meet the UAE leadership.
Cricketers to watch out for HBL PSL
LAHORE, Feb 09 (APP):The HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) has been a great platform for the youngsters to showcase their talent and make their mark in the Pakistan national cricket team.
In the last three years to date, many cricketers such as Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Rumman Raees to mention a few, have gone on to play for Pakistan after proving their worth in the tournament, according to an analysis conducted here on Saturday.
The HBL PSL 2019 is now set to provide an opportunity for the next group of emerging players to shine and use it as a stepping stone in their dream of representing Pakistan at international level. There are some of the emerging players to watch out for over the next few weeks.
Rizwan Hussain (Islamabad United)
Cricket hero: Kumar Sangakkara
Twenty-two years old Rizwan Hussain is a hard-hitting opening batsman from Lahore, who was picked by Islamabad United as one of the
supplementary players from the emerging category in the players draft for HBL Pakistan Super League 2019.
Rizwan originally belongs to Pir Mahal, a small city in Toba Tek Singh district, but moved to Lahore in 2012 to pursue a career in cricket.
“I used to play cricket in school. My teachers suggested to my parents to send me to a bigger city to become a cricketer. That was when I started taking interest in cricket,” recalls Rizwan.
After having had successful seasons in Lahore’s club cricket, where he plays for P&T Gymkhana, and a few performances in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Rizwan caught the attention of the United and was picked for the HBL PSL even before his T20 debut.
Rizwan made his first T20 appearance in the National T20 Cup 2018 in Multan and ended the tournament as second-highest run-getter, scoring 311 runs at an average of 51.83 and a strike-rate of 131.77.
“I will try my best to be the best batsman of the HBL PSL 2019 and, at least, score one century. But my ultimate dream, like any other cricketer, is to play for Pakistan.”
Umer Khan (Karachi Kings)
Cricket hero: Younis Khan and Rangana Herath
The 19-year-old left-arm spinner Umer Khan made a dream debut in first-class cricket this season when he took six wickets in Sui Southern Gas Corporation’s win over Peshawar in Karachi. Although he went unnoticed in the November 2018 HBL PSL draft, Karachi Kings picked him in the replacement draft in January as 21st player.
Although Umer was born in Rawalpindi district and started cricket in Taxila, his ancestral place is Mohmand district in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
The left-arm finger spinner was part of the Pakistan Under-19 team
that recently beat Bangladesh by one wicket in an Emerging Asia Cup match in Galle.
He is uncapped at T20 level but very keen to make a mark in the coming HBL PSL.
“HBL PSL is a great opportunity for young players like me. If given a chance in the tournament, my aim will be to win it for Karachi Kings. As a bowler, I want to give tough time to the best batsmen in the tournament,” said Umer.
Haris Rauf (Lahore Qalandars)
Cricket hero: Dale Steyn
The 25-year-old fast bowler is one of the most talked-about emerging players ahead of the fourth HBL PSL. Picked by Lahore Qalandars through their Players Development Programme, the right-arm fast bowler has the ability to go above 150kmph and is known for his yorkers as he showed in the Abu Dhabi T20 Trophy last October.
Haris has played only two T20s so far — for Qalandars against Titans and Hobart Hurricanes in Abu Dhabi, taking a wicket in each match. He bowled seven overs in a pair of T20 games conceding at only 6.71 per over.
The speedster hails from Rawalpindi and went to Gujranwala for trials conducted by the Qalandars in 2017.
“I was picked by Lahore Qalandars for HBL PSL. The coach Aqib Javed has lent me lot of support. He took me to Australia and suggested me to observe cricket there,” said Haris.
“This year, I also got a chance to bowl at world’s best batsmen, including Virat Kohli, before the New Year Test in Sydney. I gained
lot of confidence by bowling at him. The whole experience has been
a good learning curve for me.
“I am looking to do well in the coming HBL PSL and my target in the tournament will be to bowl as fast as I can.”
Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators)
Cricket hero: Kumar Sangakkara
The highly talented middle-order batsman Saud Shakeel is from Karachi where he started his cricket at the UBL Sports Academy. He is 23 years old and was part of the Pakistan team that played the ICC U19 Cricket World
Cup final against South Africa in Dubai in 2014.
He was first picked by Quetta Gladiators for the HBL PSL 2018, but didn’t get any games. He is one of those players who was retained by the Gladiators for the 2019 season, he is likely to make his HBL PSL debut
this year.
Saud is yet to show his true potential in T20 cricket, but has scored 1,987 runs in 50 overs cricket at an impressive average of 52.28 with the help of two centuries.
“My goal is to play for Pakistan in all three formats and I want to have a long international career,” said Saud.
“I also want to play a winning role for Quetta Gladiators in the coming HBL PSL, which is a fantastic tournament for the youngsters. It is an opportunity for the players to prove their talent and cement a place in the national team.”
Samiullah Afridi (Peshawar Zalmi)
Cricket hero: Mohammad Hafeez, Misbah-ul-Haq and Kevin Pietersen
The 22-year-old top-order batsman Samiullah Afridi got the attention
of HBL PSL franchises when he scored an unbeaten 104 for FATA against an SNGPL team that comprised eight Test cricketers in the Quaid-e-Azam
Trophy this season.
Samiullah natively belongs to Khyber Agency, but was born and raised
in Peshawar where he started his cricket career in 2010 and played at both the under-16 and under-19 levels.
He was picked by Peshawar Zalmi as a supplementary player.
With 167 runs at 23.28, he was also the top run-getter for FATA in the National T20 Cup in Multan in 2018.
“I was selected for HBL PSL through a Peshawar Zalmi’s player development program. I scored over 400 runs in their Azadi Cup tournament and was declared as the best batsman,” said Samiullah.
“I also scored most runs for FATA in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy this season. My aim is to take this form into the HBL PSL.”
Mohammad Ilyas (Multan Sultans)
Cricket hero: James Anderson
The 19-year-old fast bowler is an uncapped T20 player, but his numbers in first-class cricket are eye-catching. Ilyas is a product of club cricket in Peshawar and made his first-class debut this season.
In the very first match of his career, Ilyas accounted for 10 wickets, helping Peshawar to register a win against Islamabad in a Quaid-e-Azam Trophy match. He took five wickets in each innings.
In five four-day games, he has picked 33 wickets at an average of 15.90 and taken three five-wicket hauls.
He was picked by Multan Sultans as an emerging player in the players draft for HBL PSL 2019.
“I used to play cricket with my brothers. The people who used to watch me suggested to my eldest brother to get me admitted in a proper cricket academy because they thought I had the potential to play the game at higher levels,” said Ilyas.
“I want to be among the top-five bowlers in the HBL PSL.”
“I am looking forward to the tournament and particularly excited at the prospect of playing with Shahid Afridi.”
Murad Saeed inaugurates E-Commerce initiative at Pakistan Post
ISLAMABAD, Feb 9 (APP):Federal Minister for Communications and Postal Services Murad Saeed inaugurated ‘E-Commerce facility at Pakistan Post here Saturday.
The minister, on the occasion, expressed his confidence in the E-Commerce facility and said this initiative would lead the department towards financial prosperity, a private news channel reported.Meanwhile, Director General Pakistan Post Dr Naseer Ahmed told APP that the Pakistan Post had the capacity to deliver to online vendors for their cash on delivery products with proof of delivery and prompt reconciliation of their payments. “Many international web portal operators have shown their interest to enter into Pakistan market with Pakistan Post as their delivery partner,” he said while talking to the state news agency.
He said that the future initiatives of Pakistan, which would be compatible with the contemporary needs of today, would include an entry into the E-Commerce business.
It is pertinent to mention here, that German Ambassador to Pakistan Martin Kobler last month paid a surprise visit to the General Post Office (GPO) in Islamabad to send a gift to his family in Berlin.
In a tweet on his social media account, Kobler expressing his pleasure over improvement in Pakistan Post service, in English and Urdu and said: “great to hear that Pakistan Post has become reliable & delivers fast now. so just sent a small gift to my family in Berlin. thank you for the service and friendly staff at the post office”, he wrote, tagging Federal Minister for Communications and Postal Services Murad Saeed.
Chinese naval fleet participating in AMAN-19 maritime exercise in Karachi
BEIJING, Feb 9 (APP:A Chinese naval fleet has joined the multinational AMAN-19 maritime exercise being conducted in Karachi with an aim to promote maritime exchanges and cooperation among the participating countries and jointly enhance their capabilities to deal with maritime security threats.China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Oman, and other countries have sent ships, aircraft or special forces to participate in the five-day exercise which will continue till February 12, according to Chinese defense ministry statement issued here.
The exercise, organized by Pakistan Navy has two major phases including harbor and sea phase. Harbor activities would include seminars, discussions, and demonstrations.
A three-day International Maritime Conference will also be held on the topic of “Global Geopolitics in Transition: Rethinking Maritime Dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region.” The navies will do practical exercise in the sea during the sea phase.
AMAN series of multinational exercises were started in 2007 with a view to promoting regional cooperation and stability, greater interoperability, and displaying a united resolve against terrorism and crimes in the maritime domain including piracy. It is the 7th such exercise being held in the Arabian Sea off-shores of Pakistan’s Karachi.
China resolutely opposes Indian PM’s visit to disputed border region
BEIJING, Feb 9 (APP)::A Chinese foreign ministry’s spokesperson Saturday strongly opposed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the remote Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China has never recognized.
“The Chinese government has never recognized the so-called “Arunachal Pradesh” and resolutely opposes the activities of Indian leaders to the eastern section of the Sino-Indian border,” Hua Chunying said in a statement issued here.
She said that China’s position on the Sino-Indian border issue is consistent and clear and urged the Indian side to proceed from the overall situation of bilateral relations, respect China’s interests and concerns, cherish the momentum of improving relations between the two countries, and refrain from any actions that intensify disputes and complicate the border issue.
The Indian Prime Minister inaugurated several projects and lay the foundation of many vital schemes during his visit to the north-eastern state on Saturday.
No concession for corruption-tainted people: PM
BALOKI (Nankana Sahib), Feb 9 (APP):Prime Minister Imran Khan Saturday while ruling out slight prospects for NRO like legislation, categorically said that there would be no more concession for the corrupt elements as his government was determined for an above-board accountability of all.Terming the NRO as treachery to the country, he assured the countrymen that those who had made the country bankrupt or those who had been involved in the corruption spree, would no longer walk away free.
He was addressing a launching ceremony of a Spring trees plantation drive ‘Plant for Pakistan’ in Baloki. On the occasion, he also inaugurated the establishment of Baloki Natural Reserve Forest. Governor Punjab Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar, Federal Minister for Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam, provincial ministers and high officials were also present.
Expressing his wonder over functioning of Opposition leaders Shahbaz Sharif as chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) despite being in jail in a number of corruption cases, the Prime Minister said he had never come across such thing in the democratic systems. “It has never been imagined in a democracy,” he added.
He said the government had tried its level best to accommodate the opposition and let the parliament work, but now, onwards, they would no longer give concession to any corrupt one.
Those who had been facing NAB cases were summoning the NAB authorities. The opposition was only vainly raising hue and cry in the parliament, he added.
Comparing the past regimes with his PTI government, the Prime Minister said that within five months of his government’s tenure, three ministers had resigned on the allegations of corruption.“It is the change,” he added.
On the other hand, he said, those involved in the fake bank accounts by siphoning off worth billion of rupees and owners of illegal properties abroad, had no courage to resign.
The Prime Minister said the accountability had no discrimination and his government would ensure such robust accountability process.