BEIJING, April 10 (APP):After Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speech at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference on Tuesday, leaders of other Asian countries and heads of international organizations voiced their support for inter-connectivity, free trade and fair globalization.
Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi expressed the concern that “the trading regime underpinned by the WTO (World Trade Organization) is eroding”.
“As nations look inward, and turn their backs on globalization, we in Asia confront a strategic choice: Whether to follow suit, or to script an alternative, more hopeful vision for our future,” he told the forum.
“Our coordinated and tailored approaches must incorporate the enterprising spirit of our people and their common aspirations for a better life. They must include embracing structural reform, strengthening regional institutions, increasing connectivity, leveraging technology and investing in human capital,” the Chinese media quoted him as saying.
Prime Minister Abbasi said today China was a global leader in addressing climate change and in promoting global trade, equitable development and a sustainable world.
President of the Philippines Rodrigo Roa Duterte noted the global shifting of economic weight and might to Asia while it continued its comparatively robust growth in the following decade. “Every Asian country, big or small, has a role to play” for prosperity and peace, he told the forum.
He said yet the economies would encounter challenges ahead. “But we will not be deterred. We seek to partner with responsible businesses – homegrown and foreign based – to drive the progress we envision,” Duterte said while making his speech at the opening of the forum.
Duterte said the Philippines remained committed to inter-connectivity, innovation and investment.
“We will continue our efforts to broaden and deepen our economic engagement and cooperation with our friends and neighbours. We must harness the potential for shared growth in our region and beyond,” he said.
“As sovereign equals, the Philippines and China are partners in the building of much-needed infrastructure,” he stressed. “We are bridging bridges of greater understanding between our people. We are working together on strengthening economic complementarities.”
“Let me say it again today: the Philippines’ destiny is in Asia. The Philippines is ready to work with all nations in the region who seek friendship and cooperation,” he said.
Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore, emphasized concerns over the impact of high tariffs for countries big and small.
He said “Singapore does not believe that imposing unilateral tariffs is the correct solution” as they were not compliant with the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) rules.
There would always be competition between major powers, but it made all the difference whether competition occurred within a framework of interdependence and generally accepted rules of the game, Lee said at the forum.
“More fundamentally, as economists point out, the focus on the bilateral trade imbalance between the US and China is misplaced,” he said. “What matters to a country is not its bilateral trade balance with a specific trading partner, but its overall trade balance with the rest of the world. Furthermore, the cause of a trade deficit is an imbalance in the domestic economy, in particular when a country consumes more than it produces.”
Lee also said that China had responded to the United States’ trade salvos accordingly and was “careful and calibrated”.
“Nevertheless, there is now a serious dispute. Everyone still hopes that before these tariffs are implemented, the two countries will be able to work out an accommodation and head off further escalation,” he added.
Prime Minister of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh said that openness and connectivity were conducive to healthy economic development.
Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres said at the forum that globalization had brought benefits, but the goal should be “fair globalization that leaves no one behind”.
“One thing must be very clear: We won’t make globalization fair by isolationism, protectionism or exclusion,” he told the forum. “Global problems need global multiple solutions. Multilateral connectivity and cooperation should be emphasized so as to achieve peace, dignity and prosperity for all mankind.”
Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Christine Lagarde also identified the importance of Asia to global economic growth. She articulated the emphasis on economic openness to the Boao audience.
Leaders back free trade, fair globalization at Boao Forum for Asia
Ceasefire violations by India can lead to dangerous escalation : PM
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Tuesday said the “deliberate and unprovoked” ceasefire violations by India along the Line of Control and the Working Boundary could escalate dangerously if not put to an end.
He was talking to the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres who called on the sidelines of BOAO Forum for Asia.
The Prime Minister said the violations by India were moving towards a dangerous escalation resulting in martyrdom of innocent civilians, a press release issued here from the PM Office said.
He also expressed deep concern at deteriorating situation in Indian occupied Kashmir (IoK) and the mindless killing spree of innocent Kashmiris by Indian occupation forces.
Abbasi conveyed grave concern over the use of pellet guns by Indian forces in IoK and said “Pakistan seeks a just and peaceful resolution of the dispute, reflecting the wishes of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolutions.”
The Prime Minister said that the UN must play its part in highlighting Indian atrocities being inflicted upon Kashmiris in the Indian Occupied Kashmir.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan followed Zero tolerance policy towards terrorism and extremism and has achieved significant success in this regard.
The Prime Minister also expressed grave concern at the plight of Rohingya Muslims.
The UN Secretary General acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts towards counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance to the Afghan refugees and the UN peacekeeping operations.
He maintained that he had been advocating the need for a serious dialogue on the Kashmir issue.
Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, Minister for Interior, Planning, Development & Reform Ahsan Iqbal, Ambassador Masood Khalid and senior officials were also present during the meeting.
Punjab Sports minister greets Nooh for winning CWG bronze medal
LAHORE, Apr 10 (APP):Punjab Minister for Sports Jahangir Khanzada on Tuesday congratulated the young weightlifting star Nooh Dastagir Butt for winning Pakistan’s second bronze medal in the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2018 at Gold Coast, Australia.
Nooh Butt lifted a total of 395kg in the +105kg event. He also smashed a record at the Commonwealth Games 2018 by registering the highest-ever weight by a junior in the +105kg event.
In his congratulatory message here the Punjab Sports Minister praised the performance of young weightlifting star and said: “Nooh Dastagir Butt won the hearts of entire nation with his sterling performance.”
He expressed the hope that Pakistan contingent will clinch more medals in the remaining competitions of the mega event.
It may be noted here that the 20-year-old weightlifter lifted 173kg
in snatch and 222kg in clean and jerk to finish third in the competition behind New Zealand’s David Liti and Samoa’s Lauititi Lui. Nooh finished ahead of India’s Gurdeep Singh, who lifted a total of 382kg and finished fourth.
Players named for Pakistan Test Team Initial Camp
LAHORE, Apr 10 (APP):The National Selection Committee, headed by former Pakistan captain, Inzamam ul Haq, has called 25 players for the initial Pakistan Test team training Camp being held here from Wednesday
at Gaddafi Stadium.
The five-day initial phase of the camp is being organized for the tour of Ireland and England, said a spokesman of the Pakistan Cricket Board on Tuesday.
The players invited for the camp include ten batsmen,four spinners ,five fast bowlers, two wickets keepers, two all rounders and two players of the development squad.
Following are the names of the players: (Batsmen) Azhar Ali, Sami Aslam, Haris Sohail, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Salahuddin, Fawad Alam, Saad Ali, Imam ul Haq.
(Spinners) Bilal Asif, Muhammad Asghar, Shadab Khan, Kashif Bhatti.
(Fast bowlers) Muhammad Amir, Muhammad Abbas (exempted as allowed to play county in England),Hasan Ali, Rahat Ali, Mir Hamza.
(Wicketkeepers) Sarfaraz Ahmed, Muhammad Rizwan.
(All rounders) Fahim Ashraf, Hussain Tallat.
(Player Development), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Musa Khan.
The following players have not been considered due to injuries,Yasir Shah (Fracture Hip. Rest and rehab 6-12 weeks), Shan Masood (knee injury)
The names of players attending the final phase of the camp will be announced later. The camp will start from April 18 to 22. The team will depart for Ireland on April 23.
Over 2 million people can be brought to tax net by using modern technology: Miftah
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue, and Economic Affairs Miftah Ismail has said that over two million people could be brought to tax net by using modern technology in the country.
There were 700,000 tax payers in the country and that the figure would be increased through using modern technology, he said while talking to a private news channel.
The credit goes to the present government for announcing tax amnesty scheme, he said.
The target has been set to collect 4000 billion rupees tax this year, Miftah Ismail said. Due to the prudent policies of present government, the exports had been increased to 23.9 per cent, he added.
“We have also set targets to achieve 5.6 per cent growth rate this year,” he said.
Commenting on China Pakistan Economic Corridor, he said many roads and infrastructure development projects, have been initiated under CPEC.
Miftah said India was spreading negative propaganda against Pakistan to halt economic progress including CPEC.
For purchasing property, he said the citizens would have to make tax registration. All efforts
were being made to expand tax network and check tax evaders in the country, he added.
Indiscriminate action should be basis for elimination of corruption: President
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):President Mamnoon Hussain Tuesdays said that indiscriminate action was the basis for eradication of corruption, so that confidence of the masses in the national institutions could be restored.
He stressed that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) officers should be very honest and unbiased because corruption free administration and decisions were the hallmarks of NAB.
The president was talking to chairman NAB justice (retd) Javed Iqbal who called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, said a press release.
The chairman NAB also presented Annual Report – 2017 of his organization to the president.
While appreciating the annual report, the president emphasized that corruption could be only eliminated from the society if all the requirements of justice were fulfilled.
He directed that reservations of the courts and public against NAB should be removed.
The president also underlined that the ongoing development process should not be affected by the steps taken by the accountability institutions and officers.
He underscored that extermination of corruption and firm accountability were considered as national agenda therefore, all efforts should be made to enhance the confidence of public in such institutions.
He observed that Pakistan made significant improvement in the international ranking with reference to the indicators of corruption in which NAB had played an important role.
On the occasion, chairman NAB Justice (retd) Javed Iqbal assured the president that NAB would continue to take indiscriminate action against corruption.
Pakistan fully committed to mandate and principles espoused by UNESCO
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Pakistan is fully committed to the mandate and principles espoused by UNESCO and appreciates UNESCO’s valuable contributions in promoting dialogue and cultural diversity which have ameliorated lives of millions of people through education and scientific cooperation.
This was stated by Dr Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal, Member National Assembly of Pakistan while delivering country statement at the 204th Session of the Executive Board of UNESCO held at Paris, a press release received from Paris here on Tuesday said.
The Executive Board meeting was also attended by Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director General UNESCO, Ambassador of Pakistan to France Moin ul Haque and 58 Executive Board members.
Dr Shezra Mansab assured the Executive Board that Pakistan would fulfill its obligations to UNESCO and would continue to work together with the global community in striving for an equitable, just, tolerant, open and socially inclusive world.
The Pakistan’s representative stated that Government of Pakistan has embarked on a broad based programme for social sector development, and education especially girls education remains an area of priority.
In this context, she referred to Pakistan’s voluntary contribution of US$ 10 million to setup Malala Fund to supplement UNESCO’s efforts for promoting girl child education globally.
She also thanked Governments of the Republic of Korea, Italy and Qatar for their substantial contributions to this Fund. She welcomed Director General proposal for strategic transformation of UNESCO and emphasized that the new reform process should conform to UNESCO’s core mandate, ensure inclusiveness and transparency and preserve intergovernmental character of UNESCO.
During her stay in Paris Dr Shezra will also be meeting with President of General Conference, President of Executive Board and Senior officials of UNESCO Secretariat.
CPEC can help increase seafoods’ export beyond $1 bn
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):With the establishment of state of the art China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) infrastructure in Balochistan and Sindh provinces, Pakistan’s fisheries sector export could cross $1 billion annually against current annual export of around $400 million.
Pakistan’s exports of fishery products stand at about 0.25 per cent of world exports. Other than a huge domestic market, Pakistan has an export market for fish and fish products and around 30 per cent of the total fish catch is exported to 30 countries of the world, said a latest report titled “The state of economy: China Pakistan Economic Corridor Review and Analysis”, issued by The Shahid Javed Burki Institute of Public Policy at NtSol.
According to the report, the fisheries sector in Balochistan is the major source of employment for people residing along the coastal belt, this includes fishermen and other associated businesses such as boat building and net manufacturing.
Other forms of employment include hawkers, vendors, store keepers, tourist guides, driver, etc. A problem associated with the expansion of the port due to CPEC is that some fishing zones would be dislocated- a serious concern of local people that their livelihood would be finished and forgotten.
However the report warned that over exploitation of the marine fisheries, especially shrimps, should be avoided to conserve the natural habitat. This is necessary for the commercial development of fishing industry as it keeps open the investment opportunities in future.
The report proposed to follow case of Thailand for developing a modern fishery processing industry. In Balochistan’s coastal areas, fresh fish is packed in ice and sent to Karachi.
The advanced processing of fish canning is done at Karachi, there is a great potential for canning industry in Makran areas provided that road links are available for marketing.
Modern fish processing facilities should be developed as part of CPEC with China’s help. Developing a modern fishing industry is test case for CPEC that is largely for the benefit of the local population and would make a real visible change in their livelihood, the report added.
PM invites Hong Kong businessmen to invest in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Tuesday said that businessmen from Hong Kong could expect excellent returns on investment in Pakistan in the fields of financial services, technology, logistics and infrastructure.
The prime minister was talking to Chief Executive of Hong Kong Ms. Carrie Lam who called on him on the sidelines of BOAO Forum for Asia, PM office media wing said in a press release.
The prime minister said Pakistan considered Hong Kong as a significant and largest free trade area and a super connector of the Belt & Road Initiative.
The prime minister said Hong Kong was home to over 25,000 Pakistan origin residents and commended Hong Kong’s policy of tolerance and interfaith harmony that was hallmark of its diversity.
He said the enhanced people to people contacts was the key to strengthening relations and suggested a more liberal visa regime for Pakistani businessmen & tourists; and increase in scholarships for Pakistani students in universities of Hong Kong.
He expressed his satisfaction over participation of investors from Hong Kong in the ‘Pakistan Investment Forum’.
The prime minister expressed the hope to organize investment and trade promotion events, and B2B meetings in collaboration with the Government of Hong Kong.
He also felicitated Ms. Carrie Lam on assuming office of the chief executive through a successful election process that manifested effectiveness of the unique model of ‘one country, two systems’.
The prime minister invited the Chief Executive of Hong Kong to visit Pakistan.
The Hong Kong chief executive commended the economic growth attained by Pakistan under the present government and expressed the hope to further strengthen economic and people-to-people contacts.
Foreign minister Khawaja Asif, minister for interior, planning, development & reform Ahsan Iqbal, Ambassador Masood Khalid and senior officials were also present during the meeting.
Security forces gain a major intelligence achievement in Khurram Agency
RAWALPINDI, Apr 10 (APP):A special intelligence based operation (IBO) was carried out on Tuesday by security forces along with intelligence agencies in Khurram Agency against terrorists networks involved in three major terrorist activities in Parachinar.
According to a statement issued here by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the terrorists networks were also involved in suicide bombing, vehicle borne improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and IED attacks.
Busting of these terrorist networks and apprehensions of 3 terrorists revealed that these networks were also involved in illegal weapons/ammunition, explosives dealing and smuggling inside Kurram Agency.
On gathered information from apprehended terrorists, huge quantity of arms and ammunition, explosives, bombs, IEDS and mines were recovered from an underground dugout The IBO was carried out as part of the ongoing Operation Radd ul Fasaad.
UK to host Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting -2018 from April 16
LONDON, Apr 10 (APP):The United Kingdom (UK) will host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2018, commencing from April 16, in London and Windsor UK.
The Commonwealth leaders will attend working sessions to discuss shared global challenges, and gather at Windsor Castle for the Leaders’Retreat – a day when leaders engage in frank dialogue and set the course for future Commonwealth co-operation.
Pakistan will participate in the meeting as a founding member of the Commonwealth, sources said.
According to the Commonwealth sources, the Leaders’ discussions would be enriched by a variety of events, centered on four forums taking place in London between April 16 to18 included People’s Forum, Business Forum, Youth Forum and Women’s Forum.
The theme of the meeting is-“Towards a Common Future”.
The Commonwealth is a diverse community of fifty-two (52) nations that work together to promote prosperity, democracy and peace.
The summit would focused on building on the strengths of the Commonwealth to ensure this unique organization is responsive to global challenges and delivers a more prosperous, secure, sustainable and fair future for all its citizens, particularly its young people, the sources added.
The four themes of the summit are:A more sustainable future, a fairer future,a more secure future and a more prosperous future of the members countries.The Commonwealth is a diverse community of 52 nations that work together to promote prosperity, democracy and peace.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) when leaders from all the member countries are expected to gather in London and Windsor (UK).
“They will come together to reaffirm our common values, address the shared global challenges we face and agree how to work to create a better future for all our citizens, particularly young people”, the sources said.
The Commonwealth is a unique membership of 52 nations spanning every continent, with
a combined population of around 2.4 billion people – over 60% of its people are under 30.
The Commonwealth is incredibly diverse, ranging from G7/G20 economies.
Unlike other international organizations, every member state has an equal voice in the
Commonwealth, meaning the interests of its 30 small states are addressed. Trade
between Commonwealth countries is projected to hit $1 trillion by 2020, supported by a
common language and legal systems.
Its members are united in their commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law
and the promotion of peace and prosperity – core values which underpin ‘The
Commonwealth Charter’. Its main purpose is to enable dialogue between its members on
issues of mutual concern, and at the bi-annual meeting of its heads of government
(‘CHOGM’), provides a mechanism for governments to solve problems together.
The Commonwealth Summit in April 2018 the UK will host the Commonwealth Summit to set out a shared future for a vibrant and diverse Commonwealth, with leaders from more than 52 countries expected to
attend. The Summit – one of the biggest national events since the Olympic Games – will
take place over seven days across London and Windsor with associated events and
festivals across the UK.
For the first time, Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle will be among the summit
venues. During the Summit week, leaders from over 52 countries will gather for the
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (‘CHOGM’).
The Summit will also see the UK take over as ‘Chair-in-Office’ of the Commonwealth until 2020.
The Commonwealth Summit Unit In January the Cabinet agreed to establish a new unit in the Cabinet Office – led by Tim Hitchens as CEO – to advise the Prime Minister on the delivery of the Summit, and to
oversee and coordinate its preparation.
The Unit will also support a new Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) co-chaired by the Foreign Secretary and Home Secretary to provide ministerial oversight of Whitehall’s preparations.
The unit will expand to around 80 people in the coming months, comprised mainly of two
Directorates for policy and operations, led by Harriet Mathews and Sarah Bartholomew
respectively.
Tobacco, Sheesha prohibited in Federal Capital: Senate told
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Minister of State for Interior Muhammad Talal Chaudhary Tuesday informed the Senate that tobacco / Sheesha (Huqqa) had been prohibited in the Federal Capital and action was being taken against the violators.
Replying to a question, the minister denied that the use of tobacco was increasing in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).
The ICT administration, he said, had constituted six teams under the assistant commissioners concerned in its all sub-divisions for effective enforcement of Sheesha (Huqqa) ban and monitoring of all tobacco control laws.
He said the enforcement teams conducted raids against Sheesha (Huqqa) bars / violators of tobacco control laws and imposed fines as part of efforts to control indoor and underage smoking. In years 2015-17, the teams collectively imposed fine of Rs 3.114 million on the violators, he added.
He said many Sheesha (Huqqa) bars had closed down after successful enforcement of the ban by the ICT administration.
The minister said during the current year, 39 bar owners, 15 servants and 28 tobacco / Sheesha smokers were found involved and action was taken against them under the relevant law.
He said the ICT administration was to make Islamabad a Tobacco – Smoke Free City in collaboration with the Capital Administration and Development Division (CA&DD) by creating unawareness and enforcement of tobacco control laws, including Sheesha (Huqqa) bars.
He said to plan, implement and monitor the initiative of “Tobacco-Smoke Free City”, a District Implementation & Monitoring Committee (DI&MC) on Tobacco Control under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner, Islamabad was notified. Meetings of the said committee were being held every month since its notification.
He said Sheesha (Huqqa) bars were totally banned in the ICT. However, implementation against the menace was a continuous process for which the ICT administration was committed. he added.
He said the ICT administration prohibited the tobacco business near educational institutions under Tobacco Control Ordinance. At the moment more than 80 per cent shops near educational institutions did not sell tobacco products, he said.
The minister said the ICT administration in collaboration with the CA&DD declared and inaugurated 164 public places as tobacco smoke free facilities, including all hotels and restaurants, schools / colleges / universities and high-rise buildings (i.e. Centaurus, Islamabad Stock Exchange, Saudi Pak Tower, UBL Tower along all branches of North Zone, ZTBL with 488 branches, MOU signed with HEC etc).
Similarly, 10 public parks of Islamabad were declared as tobacco smoke free, he added.
Talal said all the SDPOs/SHOs also had been strictly directed to launch awareness programmes among the youth within their areas to invite their attention towards the harmful effects of tobacco/Sheesha smoking and to ensure that no person sells smoking substance to any minor, who is below the age of 18 years.
To another question, the minister said a plan had been devised under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to meet water requirement of the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad till 2050. PC 1 of the project had also been made, he added.
To a question, Talal Chuahdary said crime rate had witnessed considerable decrease after operationalizing of the Safe City Project. The Safe City project was signed in past but it was materialized by the incumbent government, he said.
IHC assured to be informed before appointment of US Ambassador
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Attorney General Ashtar Osaf assured the Islamabad High Court (IHC) that government would issue notification for appointment of Ali Jahangir Siddiqui as Ambassador to America after informing the court.
1Justice Athar Minallah of IHC heard the case filed by a citizen Shahzad Saddique Alvi against the appointment of Ali Jahangir.
During the proceeding, AG appeared before the bench and informed that the government had not issued any notification regarding the appointment. He, however, requested the court for not making his statement as part of the case record.
He said that correspondence between Pakistan and America continued for appointment of Siddiqui as the ambassador.
He assured the court that the notification regarding the matter would be issued after informing the bench.
The court adjourned hearing of the case till May 2.
Country’s progress, agenda of PML-N govt: Shehbaz Sharif
LAHORE, Apr 10 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad
Shehbaz Sharif has said that core agenda of Pakistan Muslim
League-N government is national development and prosperity
of the people.
“I am grateful to all the colleagues who extended their
support for progress and prosperity of the country”, he added.
He said while talking to members of national the assembly, here on Tuesday.
Shehbaz said that there was no example of record development
projects initiated during the last five years by the PML-N
government and added that he believed in composite development
of every district and city of the province.
The Chief Minister said that even the opponents admitted
the utility of infrastructure development and innovative
schemes initiated in the Punjab.
He said that elements obstructing the national development
process were not loyal to the nation. “We have worked
round-the-clock for public welfare and focal point of our
politics is the development and prosperity of the masses”,
he added.
Those who called on the Chief Minister included Member
National Assembly Ghulam Bibi Bharwana, Dr. Zulfiqar Ali
Bhatti, Azhar Qayyum Nahra, Ch. Muhammad Tufail, Ch. Muhammad
Arshad Jutt, former MNA Haji Mudassar Qayyum Nahra and
Chairman District Council Gujranwala Mazhar Qayyum Nahra.
Pakistan can eliminate polio virus in campaigns of April, May: Senator Ayesha
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication Senator Ayesha Raza Farooq Tuesday said Pakistani nation has shown great resolve to reduce polio cases and by ensuring high quality national and sub-national campaigns in April and May, it will help give the virus a final push out of the country.
She said this during her surprise visit to suburbs of Islamabad.
The Senator paid a surprise visit to various localities in Islamabad including Tarlai and temporary settlements of nomads.
She was accompanied by National Coordinator for Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) Dr Rana Safdar and other senior officers of the health ministry, ICT and CDA.
Noting that the polio drive in the capital is critical, the Senator said that Prime Minister has constituted a special task force to specifically monitor the campaign in twin cities and report back to him on daily basis to ensure maximum coverage during this and all the upcoming campaigns.
Though there has been no case reported from the twin cities for over two years but virus has been found in the environmental samples of both Islamabad and Rawalpindi drainage thus raising the concerns amongst officials and communities.
The Senator said that she would be personally monitoring the campaign in the city during every round. She also took notice of gaps in the provision of routine immunization services against nine deadly diseases of children in the area and issued directions to ensure that every child is immunized.
Talking to the parents and communities during her visit, Senator urged all segments of the society and especially the parents to facilitate the front line workers (Sehat Muhafiz) in this noble cause.
Several community elders welcomed the Senator and thanked the government for bringing the country this close to complete eradication of polio. “Our Sehat Muhafiz have brought us so close to polio eradication that we cannot afford to relax hence I and leadership of EOC have come out to support our valiant teams for getting rid of this disease completely,” said Senator Ayesha.
The second last polio campaign of the current low transmission season has commenced from Monday across all provinces and areas of the country except Bajour agency of FATA starting later.
A total of 37.71 million under children under five years of age will be vaccinated including 19.38 million in Punjab, 8.85 million in Sindh, 5.73 million in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 2.46 million in Balochistan, 1 million in FATA, 0.7 million in AJK, 0.238 million in GB and 0.33 million children in Islamabad.
It is a three day campaign plus one day catch up elsewhere and 5 days plus 2 days catch up in core reservoir areas. During this campaign, Vitamin-A supplement will also be administered to around 35 million children aged between 6-59 months along with OPV aimed at boosting immunity against diseases including measles.
A total of 260,000 personnel will strive to achieve set targets across the country including 24,661 area in charges, 7,977 UC medical officers, 190,573 mobile, 10,235 fixed and 12,148 transit team members. The current polio epidemiology in the country is best ever observed with case decline from 306 in 2014 to 54 in 2015 to 20 in 2016 and 8 in 2017. In the current year, only one polio case has so far been reported from district Dukki, Balochistan.
The Senator also inspected the children playing in the streets to see whether their fingers had been marked after they were vaccinated. The Senator talked to polio teams and checked their tally sheets. She also advised polio teams to pay attention to children who may be visiting relatives since there is a possibility that such children are missed in the drive.
She further directed that each house, including makeshift shanties, nomads and travelling families with under five children should be administered polio drops and properly marked with permanent markers to ensure each household is covered.
Mehtab briefed about arrangements at new Islamabad airport
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Advisor to Prime Minister on Civil Aviation Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan Tuesday instructed
that all arrangements at new Islamabad International airport should be finalized so that passengers
do not face any difficulties.
While chairing a meeting about the new airport, he directed the civil aviation officials to provide
all facilities to airlines and other staff working at the airport.
The advisor took a detailed briefing from different departments including Civil Aviation, PIA, Airport Security Force, Regional Transport Authorities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad and technical sections.
He said flights will start from the new international airport from April 20. The officials of different airlines gave briefing about services to be provided to the passengers, flight operation, cargo, kitchen
and baggage handling.
Mehtab said information about flight timings and flight routes should be updated on
the official website.
Karwan Theatre to perform drama “Anoki Bat b Mumkin Hy” on April, 15
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Karwan Theatre will perform drama “Anoki Bat b Mumkin Hy” at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on April 15.
Director Karwan Theatre Asif Shah said the theme of the drama was to highlight the importance of laborers and their hardships.
He said that Karwan theatre would organize more such plays at PNCA auditorium in future.
He said that people of Islamabad always encouraged Karwan theatre to bring such plays in the city.
‘Anoki Bat b Mumkin Hy’ is a parable about exploitation, telling the story of a rich merchant travelling across the desert and being increasingly cruel to his porter so they can travel as fast as possible.
When their water supplies run low, the porter offers him a drink from his water bottle, but the merchant thinks he is being attacked by the porter, and shoots him. In the following courtroom scene, the brutal logic of the judge finds the merchant innocent because of his cruelty.
Nasser Janjua reviews progress of Madaris reforms
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):National Security Adviser (NSA) Lt. General (Retd) Nasser Khan Janjua on Tuesday in a meeting reviewed the progress of reforms for mainstream of Madaris’ students in educational system.
Besides Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and Minister for Education
Baligh ur Rehman, the meeting was attended by the prominent members of Itehad e Tanzeemat-e-Madaris Pakistan Mufti Munib-ur-Rehman, Qari Muhammad Hanif Jalandhri, Muhammad Yasin Zafar, Maulana Abdul Malik, Maulana Niyaz Hussain Naqvi, Dr Syed Muhammad Naqvi, Dr Saeed Khan and
the high officials from different departments of Education Ministry, Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE), a news release said.
Nasser Janjua in the meeting gave a detailed presentation and sought their comments on different aspects of the road map suggested so far to enable the students of Madaris to get absorbed in the mainstream educational system of the country which will afford them all the opportunities to join any profession.
Matters pertaining to curriculum, equivalence, examination system, procedures involved in the process of mainstreaming and strategy for further upgradation of Madaris were discussed at length.
` Availing the opportunity, representative of madaris pointed out that the process of registration
is very slow and stressed that the concerned provincial authorities should expedite the process.
Points of agreement and disagreement were discussed in detail. All appreciated the progress
made so far and reiterated to continue to work together for provision of better opportunities to
students of Madaris.
More cinemas required for revival of film industry: Jamal Shah
ISLAMABAD, Apr 10 (APP):Director General Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) Jamal Shah on Tuesday said that more cinemas should be constructed for the revival of film industry in the country.
Talking to APP, he said that the movies with good content successfully made their place in the hearts of the audience while the rest tried their best to impress the audience.
Actor, director Jamal Shah said film industry has now taken its first step towards its survival, adding the audience has always supported a good film of the country. Film Director Syed Noor said with the revival of the Pakistani cinema, number of good news also coming from several corners. He appreciated government for announcing first film policy to support the film industry.
The film expert said that the film industry is yet again improving as we are seeing better releases in 2016 and 2017. Now Pakistani movies are not only released in Pakistan but also in other countries.
After that, 2015’s movie which shook the industry by taking the industry to the next level was Jawani Phir Nahi Ani. The family entertainer film by Nadeem Baig made a new record in the history of Pakistan.
Jawani Phir Nahi Ani became the first Pakistani film to cross 40 crores. The movie did a business of approximate 49 crores. In the same year, Bin Roye, Wrong No, and Karachi Se Lahore were also released among few others. The mentioned movies successfully hit the mark of 10 crores while Wrong No did a business of 15 crores.
Nadeem Baig’s Punjab Nahi Jaungi is the second Pakistani movie that has managed to successfully do business on 47 crores. The movie had been released during Eid-ul Adha in 2017.
The film expert Aijaz Gul said that the film industry has finally come on the right track. Slowly and gradually, the industry is moving forward to success.
From Khuda Kay Liye, Bol to Waar, Jawani Phir Nahi Ani, Punjab Nahi Jaungi, there were so many films produced in this period of 10 years. The important thing is exhibitors, distributors and producers have invested in the film industry. It will still take two to five more years to enter in a club of 100 crores. For that, we have to wait and to see which movie will be able to cross the 100 crone mark in the film industry.
CJP Mian Saqib Nisar to bring more legal reforms
QUETTA, Apr 10 (APP):Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar on Tuesday said he was working to bring more legal reforms, and assiduous and compliant lawyers were prerequisite to complete that task.
Due to large number of pending cases in the courts decisions were delayed, he said adding, efforts were underway to make timely decisions so that the public could get relief.
He expressed these views while addressing the lawyers on the occasion of a visit to District Court Quetta.
The Chief Justice said that instead of taking short cuts, the lawyers should work hard while preparing for cases and should assist him in his endeavor to bring new legal reforms.
Unfortunately, there had been cases pending for the last 32 years in courts, and poor people died while waiting for justice.
He said that the judges were burdensome with more work due to which there was a problem in dealing with those cases.
Earlier, when Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar reached the District Court Quetta, the lawyers welcomed him. The Chief Justice inspected various fields of District Court and directed senior Member Board of Revenue Balochistan to provide lawyers security
and feasible parking lots, take steps to resolve problems being faced by women lawyers on priority basis.
The CJP said that courts should end the culture of strikes and focus more on making hasty and right decisions.
Chief Justice Balochistan Muhammad Noor Meskanzai, Chief
Secretary Balochistan Aurangzeb Haq, Deputy Commissioner Quetta were also present on the occasion.