NEIJIANG
Ambassador of Pakistan to China, Mr. Khalil Hashmi addressing a ceremony arranged by the city government of Neijiang city, celebrating the arrival of the first batch of 182 tons of Pakistani dry chilies
NEIJIANG
ECP assigns electoral symbols to 150 political parties for general elections
ISLAMABAD, Jan 15 (APP):The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) allotted electoral symbols to around 150 political parties competing for seats in the upcoming general elections for both the National and provincial assemblies.
According to the list uploaded on ECP’s website, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) received the ‘tiger’ symbol, Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPP) the ‘arrow,’ Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) the ‘sword,’ Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-Nazriati (PTI-N) the ‘batsman,’ Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) the ‘eagle,’ Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) the ‘kite,’ Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) the ‘book,’ Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan (JI) the ‘scale,’ Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarians (PTI-P) the ‘turban,’ Balochistan National Party (BNP) the ‘axe,’ Awami National Party (ANP) the ‘lantern,’ Balochistan National Party Awami the ‘camel,’ and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) the ‘cow.
UAJK hosts Handball tournament under under PM talent hunt program
MUZAFFARABAD, Jan 15 (APP): The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) marked a momentous occasion on Monday with the inauguration of the highly anticipated Handball (Men & Women) event, a key component of the Prime Minister Youth Sports Talent Hunt Program.
The event took place at the university ground here, featuring a collaborative effort with UET Taxila and International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), adding an extra layer of excitement to the proceedings.
In the presence of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi, the inauguration ceremony included distinguished personalities such as Associate Dean Health and Allied Sciences Dr. Bashir Ur Rehman Kanth, Controller Examination Prof. Dr. Wajid Aziz Lone, Director General Sports Azad Jammu and Kashmir government Malik Shoukat Hayyat, Director Students Affairs UAJK Dr. Sharjil Saeed, Director Sports UET Muhammad Akmal, Director Sports UAJK Ms. Nighat Naz Gillani, In-charge Sports IIUI Nadia Mukhtar, and other esteemed guests.
As the chief guest, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of sports as a healthy activity that plays a pivotal role in fostering physical and mental well-being. Prof. Dr. Abbasi expressed gratitude for the generous funding from the Higher Education Commission (HEC), which facilitated the establishment of the fully equipped and functional Sports Academic Department at UAJK.
He extended heartfelt thanks to the Higher Education Commission (HEC), UET, IIUI, and the Sports Department of the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir for their collaborative efforts in making this remarkable event possible.
Commending the UAJK Sports Directorate for their impeccable organization of the event, the Vice-Chancellor took a moment to meet with the talented players, distributing souvenirs among the dignitaries.
The Talent Hunt Youth Sports League, under the auspices of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, showcases a
diverse array of sports for both men and women. From Badminton, Boxing, Cricket, Football, Handball, Hockey, Judo, Squash, Table Tennis, and Volleyball to exclusive offerings in Weightlifting and Wrestling for men, the league promises a thrilling celebration of athleticism and camaraderie.
The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir remains committed to promoting sports and providing a platform for the youth to showcase their talents.
Minister for equipping youth with technical, vocational skills
KARACHI, Jan 15 (APP):Sindh caretaker minister for Revenue, Industries and Commerce, Muhammad Younas Dagha, Monday, stressing on need of equipping the youth with professional skills said that technical and vocational education should also be imparted in schools from the seventh grade.
He was speaking at a certificate distribution ceremony held here at Sindh Boy Scouts Complex Karachi Auditorium to honour students of backward areas of the province who have achieved significant success in matriculation examination.
The ceremony organized by a non-profit organization Green Crescent Trust (GCT) was attended by Sindh Caretaker Law Minister Barrister Muhammad Umar Soomro, Additional Chief Secretary Home Muhammad Iqbal Memon and others.
Younas Dagha while addressing the ceremony termed it as a matter of pride to present certificates of appreciation to children who obtained remarkable achievement despite of financial hurdles.
He appreciated endeavor of GCT for the promotion of education and stressed on collaboration between Sindh government and non-governmental organizations on the basis of public-private partnership for promotion of education in the province.
He advised the students to continue their studies with full zeal and dedication to earn laurels for their country and their families
Chief Executive Officer Green Crescent Trust, Zahid Saeed, briefed at the occasion that GCT has established 166 welfare schools for promoting education and literacy in the backward areas of the province and 31,700 children were acquiring education in those schools.
He emphasized joint efforts by welfare organizations and the Sindh government to enhance enrollment of out-of-school children and said that development goals could not be achieved without ensuring the provision of quality education to all.
Later, certificates of appreciation and prizes were awarded to the students who exhibited outstanding performance in matriculation examinations.
CM inaugurates 37 police stations, 5 projects in Gujranwala
LAHORE, Jan 15 (APP):Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, accompanied by the cabinet, embarked on an extensive 6-hour visit to Gujranwala, inaugurating 37 police stations, 5 projects, and inspecting the Lahore Sialkot Motorway Link Road.
The link road to Gujranwala is slated for traffic opening by January 31, accompanied by the construction of a flyover at ‘Chan Da Qila’ to connect the Expressway with GT Road, said a handout issued here on Monday.
The CM commended the progress on Gujranwala’s roads, announcing the formation of a committee to finalize the design of the ‘Chan Da Qila’ Flyover. Updates on ongoing work at Gujranwala University and hospital upgrades, including the soon-to-be-completed burn unit, were shared.
The CM arrived in Gujranwala with the provincial cabinet, inspecting the Lahore Sialkot Motorway Link Road Gujranwala Expressway Project via coach, accompanied by the Chief Secretary and Inspector General of Police.
Naqvi directed the completion of the two-lane road project connecting Gujranwala with Lahore-Sialkot Motorway and initiated planting and landscaping work. FWO officials briefed the CM, stating that 85 percent of the project work has been completed.
The CM, along with ministers and officials, inaugurated the upgraded People’s Colony Police Station in Gujranwala and 36 more police stations virtually. Naqvi appreciated the facilities for prisoners and lauded the efforts of the IG Punjab and the RPO (Regional Police Officer) Gujranwala.
Subsequently, Mohsin Naqvi inaugurated Punjab’s third Business Facilitation Centre, Squash Academy, and Gujranwala Gymkhana at the Commissioner’s Office Gujranwala. The 17 km long Wazirabad, Sialkot Kashmir Road, and Gujranwala Pasrur Road Section Expressway projects were also inaugurated. The Business Facilitation Center in Gujranwala hosts 24 counters of provincial and federal departments, streamlining 124 NOCs under one roof.
Mohsin Naqvi expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Punjab Information Technology Board. He assured that all NOCs for starting a new business would be provided within 14 days.
During a visit to the Squash Academy, the chief minister, accompanied by Provincial Advisor Wahab Riaz, reviewed the game facilities.
Speaking to the media after inaugurating the Gujranwala Business Facilitation Center, Mohsin Naqvi announced the imminent opening of the Gujranwala Expressway by January 31. He highlighted ongoing development projects in Gujranwala, including plans for a flyover on GT Road, and directed the Commissioner to make the road from ‘Chan Da Qila’ to Aziz Cross Bridge signal-free.
The chief minister outlined progress in Gujranwala University, hospital upgrades, and the nearing completion of the burn unit. He mentioned upcoming decisions on constructing a park and stadium in Gujranwala and expressed optimism for the continuity of projects under the incoming government.
Provincial ministers SM Tanveer, Mansoor Qadir, Amir Mir, Bilal Afzal, Adviser Wahab Riaz, Chief Secretary, Inspector General Police, Secretary Communication and Works, Commissioner Gujranwala, RPO, CPO, Deputy Commissioner, FWO officials, and others were present.
ECP okays 250m ballot papers for general elections
ISLAMABAD, Jan 15 (APP):The Election Commission (ECP) tasked the Printing Corporation of Pakistan on Monday with producing 250 million watermarked ballot papers for the February 8 polls.
According to sources, the ECP sanctioned the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming general elections during its meeting.
Distinctive watermarks will adorn the ballot papers, which are set to be printed using three different machines. Rigorous security protocols have been ensured for the Printing Corporation premises during the ballot paper production.
The use of watermarked ballot papers was initiated in the country during the 2018 general elections, marking a significant milestone.
Three printing machines will be utilised for this task, such as the Security Printing Corporation, the Pakistan Postal Foundation, and the Printing Corporation of Pakistan sharing the workload.
Security is tightened, considering potential army deployment inside and outside printing facilities. The decision focuses on ensuring the integrity and security of the electoral process, with a detailed plan for secure transportation from printing machines to designated officials.
Anti-Rape Crisis cell established at PIMS
ISLAMABAD, Jan 15 (APP): The Ministry of Law and Justice on Monday inaugurated the model Anti-Rape Crisis Cell (ARCC) at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
The cell was established in collaboration with UK Aid, United Nations Populations Find (UNFPA) and Legal Aid Society (LAS).
The event was attended by British High Commissioner to Pakistan Ms. Jane Marriot, along with UNFPA Country Director Dr. Luay Shabaneh, Federal Law Secretary Raja Naeem Akbar, Federal Health Secretary Iftikhar Ali Shallwani, Chairperson of the Special Committee on Anti-Rape (Trial and Investigation) Act, 2021 Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, PIMS Executive Director Prof. Dr. Rana Imran Sikandar, several senior government officials and members of the civil society.
The launch of a model facility such as this signifies the government’s commitment to improve access to justice for survivors of sexual violence under the Anti-Rape (Trial and Investigation) Act 2021 through a coordinated and targeted response mechanism.
Raja Naeem Akbar thanked the civil society and the British High Commission for collaborating to establish the pilot ARCC in Islamabad.
He mentioned that the establishment of this crisis cell is a testament to the dedication of the state and the collaboration of various stakeholders in our ongoing battle against sexual violence.
Ms Ayesha Raza Farooq said, “In essence, the establishment of the Anti-Rape Crisis Cells is not just a legal initiative, it is a comprehensive and unwavering commitment to creating a society free from the shackles of sexual violence where survivors are supported, and justice prevails.”
Prof. Dr. Rana Imran Sikandar committed that the Hospital will provide specialized training sessions for all relevant healthcare officials, such as doctors and nurses on trauma-informed care and the specific needs of sexual violence survivors.
Iftikhar Ali Shallwani stated that the social evils of sexual violence exist in any country around the globe and urged to handle this issue.
Dr. Luay Shabaneh said that rape is a crisis in all facets, be it health, legal or social, which needs to have a collective response.
He mentioned that UNFPA has dedicated many of its efforts to prevention. The response has to be coordinated and multi-sectoral, which the ARCC hopes to achieve.
Ms Jane Marriot remarked, “This new anti-rape crisis facility is a strategic innovation that ensures GBV survivors are provided accelerated response services under one roof, and we are proud to have partnered with Pakistan in advancing such an important innovation in tackling violence.”
Through this collaborative effort between the federal government and members of civil society, the newly launched ‘Anti-Rape Crisis Cell’ at PIMS is all set to provide well-rounded medical, legal and social services to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
US commends Saudi Arabia’s anti-terrorism efforts in annual report
RIYADH, Jan 15 (APP): The US Department of State has lauded Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing security measures and utilizing cutting-edge technologies to counter terrorism and terrorist financing.
According to SPA, the State Department in its annual report on counter-terrorism for 2022 highlights the Kingdom’s significant strides in upgrading criteria and procedures related to security. Specifically, the commendation focuses on efforts to combat terrorism, monitor border crossings, and enhance traveler lists at land, sea, and air crossings.
Saudi Arabia’s dedication to combating terror and hate speech has also been recognized, with the Kingdom actively working on drafting laws to criminalize such acts. The promotion of moderation and tolerance is emphasized through both governmental and non-governmental institutions, including the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal), the Rehabilitation Center, the Ideological War Center (IWC), and the Muslim World League.
The report underscores the Kingdom’s pivotal roles on the regional and global stage, supporting initiatives to combat terrorism and terrorist financing, as well as countering extremist narratives. Saudi Arabia’s active participation in organizations such as the G20, the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, and the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition is highlighted.
A significant achievement mentioned in the report is the remarkable decrease in terror attacks within the Kingdom, showcasing the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism.
The US State Department has expressed confidence in Saudi Arabia’s continued dedication to fostering global security and countering the threats posed by terrorism, as detailed in the comprehensive annual report.
British Home Office delegation meets Interior Secretary
ISLAMABAD, Jan 15 (APP): A delegation from the British Home Office headed by Simon Ridley met Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani to discuss issues of mutual interest.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott also participated in the meeting.
It was agreed in the meeting to further promote cooperation for the prevention of counter-terrorism and human trafficking.
It was also agreed to further increase the cooperation between the law enforcement agencies of the two countries.
The meeting also reviewed the progress on extradition agreements between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
Simon Riddley informed the Interior Secretary about fake universities in the UK and discouraging people staying illegally on student visas in the United Kingdom.
The visa system for Pakistani nationals was being fully digitalised, whereby the visa acquisitions would become easier, he added.
Aftab Akbar Durrani said that Pakistan was providing all possible facilities for the transfer of Afghan refugees to Britain.
He informed the delegation that the government recently reduced the fee for overstaying of illegal migrants from $800 to $400.
Ambassador Hashmi undertakes orientation visit to Sichuan Province, China
BEIJING, Jan 15 (APP): Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi undertook an orientation visit to Sichuan province, the economic and cultural hub of Southwest China, from 10th to 13th January 2024.
He engaged the provincial leadership, business enterprises, academia, the Pakistani community, and Chinese media during this visit.
During his meeting with Pubu Dunzhu, Member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of Sichuan Province, both sides expressed satisfaction over the robust nature of Pakistan-China relations.
They discussed proposals to enhance Pakistan-China (Sichuan) cooperation and collaboration especially in the economic and cultural fields including through sister province and sister city relationships that are already in place.
Engaging with Pakistani students from universities in Sichuan province, Ambassador Hashmi emphasized the historic significance of Pakistan-China ties and the enduring bond of ‘iron brothers.’
He stressed the need to further strengthen these time-tested relations. Prior to this interaction, the envoy met the Sichuan University President, highlighting the importance of academic research and scholarship in advancing bilateral relations.
The Ambassador also visited the Pakistan Research and Study Center at Sichuan University that was established in 2008.
With a key focus on enhancing Pakistan’s exports and attract Chinese investment, the Ambassador interacted with diverse business enterprises in sectors like agriculture, dairy, electronics, and logistics.
He also participated in an investment round table organized by the provincial China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and encouraged enterprises and businesses to take advantage of a liberal taxation regime and invest in export-oriented industries in Pakistan.
Ambassador Hashmi also addressed a ceremony arranged by the city government of Neijiang city, celebrating the arrival of the first batch of 182 tonnes of Pakistani dry chillies in China.
These chillies, produced by a Sichuan-based company in Multan, are part of agricultural cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The ceremony also witnessed the signing of a Letter of Intent for a sister city relationship between Multan and Neijiang.
In interactions with the Pakistani community in Sichuan, Ambassador Hashmi underscored the Embassy’s commitment to public service, and assured full support of his team.
The visit served to inject additional momentum to the already robust political, economic and defence ties between Pakistan and Sichuan province of China. Such orientation visits are also planned for other regions this year.