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Chairman Mao, Quaid-e-Azam’s sculptures unveiled at Pakistan Embassy Beijing

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NNPS Desk
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BEIJING, Dec 22 (APP): In a significant cultural milestone, striking sculptures of Chairman, Mao Zedong and Pakistan’s founding father, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, known as Quaid-e-Azam were unveiled at the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing here on Friday.

Pakistan Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi and Mrs. Khalil Hashmi unveiled the sculptures at a befitting ceremony, “Eternal Remembrance: Honoruing Legacies of Jinnah and Mao,” held to celebrate their birth anniversaries in December 2023 and their enduring legacies.

As fathers of their respective nations, Chairman Mao Zedong and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Chairman demonstrated inspiring leadership as well as unwavering commitment to the principles of equity and justice.

The sculptures, masterly crafted by renowned Chinese artist Yuan Xikun, offer a unique lens, intertwining the aspirations of these eminent leaders and their nations.

The unveiling ceremony was attended, among others, by members of the diplomatic corps, Ms. Mao Xiaoqing, niece of Chairman Mao Zedong, Madame Geng Jing, who and her ancestors had made profound contributions to Pakistan’s development and growth, and Master Yuan Xikun, the world’s renowned artisan who had made both the sculptures that
were put on display at the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Hashmi paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and Chairman Mao, remembering them as two of the most iconic figures of the twentieth century who held a common vision of independence, justice, emancipation and self-respect for their nations.

The ambassador also commended Master Yuan Xikun for his craftsmanship and dedication, reflected vividly in the high quality of both the sculptures.

He added that the presence of Quaid-e-Azam and Chairman Mao’s sculptures at the Pakistan Embassy would be an apt manifestation of the iron brotherhood signifying the relationship between Pakistan and China.

In addition to the Ambassador, Madame Geng Jing and Master Yuan Xikun also spoke at the event, speaking passionately about the unique, time tested and special friendship between China and Pakistan.

They noted that the ceremony to unveil the sculptures of two great leaders was a momentous occasion reaffirming the sentiments of mutual respect, love and affection which capture the essence of China-Pakistan relationship.

IHC orders to defreeze property of British Pakistani businessman

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 22 (APP): The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday ordered the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to defreeze the properties of British Pakistani businessman Nisar Ahmed Afzal in the £60M Birmingham Mortgage fraud case.

The IHC bench comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan heard the case initiated on the request of the National Crime Agency (NCA) of the United Kingdom and announced the verdict.

The court noted that the freezing orders could continue as the principal offences in terms of the National Accountability Ordinance 1999 stood repealed.

“This is not the mandate of law to put any person under caution or his properties be freezed forever, even when no complaint has been filed in court of law nor any prosecution has been initiated for last more than seven years,” it observed.

The court, in its order, said that several properties of Nisar Afzal and family members were frozen in Islamabad by NAB in November 2021 for the purpose of recovery – on behalf of the UK authorities – but the Agency failed to file a reference and furnish any evidence of criminality against the British Pakistani family.

“Therefore, if FIA authorities intend to proceed against the petitioner they are at liberty to proceed with the matter under the law,” it said.

On August 7, 2017, the NCA through the British High Commission Islamabad had lodged a complaint with the NAB chairman, alleging that two real brothers namely Nisar Ahmed Afzal and Saghir Ahmed Afzal and others were involved in a £60 million Mortgage Fraud in the UK in the year 2004-2006 and that Nisar Ahmad Afzal fled away from the UK to Pakistan along with part proceeds of £26 million which were received in bank accounts there.

Launch of Hajj App, mosque initiatives lauded

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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Hajj App
ISLAMABAD, Dec 22 (APP): Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad on Friday praised caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed and team for launching the efficient Hajj app and their initiatives in providing excellent services to pilgrims, establishing mosque centers, and offering primary education within mosques.
Talking to the Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Azad emphasized the urgent necessity for unity in the Islamic world. He highlighted that Islam guides us towards the unity of the Ummah, fostering peace, brotherhood, and a profound respect for humanity.
The dignitaries engaged in a comprehensive discussion on religious harmony, tolerance, the establishment of a violence-free society, promoting Pakistan’s message, launching the Hajj app, and organizing Hajj arrangements. They actively exchanged ideas and shared opinions during the conversation.
Azad stated that the key elements needed for establishing peace in Pakistan at this moment encompass religious harmony, tolerance, regard for humanity, and the propagation of Pakistan’s message.
He called upon religious scholars and ulema to actively contribute to fostering unity among the people and promoting national unity through sermons in mosques.
He commended the armed forces and security agencies of Pakistan for their unparalleled and enduring sacrifices in safeguarding the nation, a tribute that resonates throughout the entire country.
Azad said Pakistan is a profound blessing from Allah Almighty, and the nation stands in solidarity with the Pakistani armed forces and security agencies dedicated to the safety and protection of our country.
“We are unwavering in our commitment to make any necessary sacrifices for Pakistan’s security and defense,” he said adding that the entire nation pays tribute to the martyrs of the Pakistani forces, and we aim to make the message of Pakistan’s voice of every home.
Caretaker Minister of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed underscored the pressing need for the revival of the Ummah. He noted that the entire Muslim community is now united in support of the oppressed Muslims in Palestine and Gaza.
He said that Pakistan’s creation involved the sacrifices of millions, and in light of the current challenges, there’s a crucial need to advance religious harmony, tolerance, and unity in the country. Calling upon religious scholars, he urged them to contribute significantly through their sermons in creating unity among the people and fostering national coherence.

FDE announces winter vacations from Dec 25 to 29

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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FDE
ISLAMABAD, Dec 22 (APP): The Federal Directorate of Education(FDE) has announced winter vacations for all public educational institutions in Islamabad Capital Territory from December 25 (Monday).
According to the notification, FDE has directed all Heads of Institutions through Area Education Officers (AEOs) including Islamabad Model Schools/Colleges/Ex-F.G. Colleges (Boys/Girls) in Urban and Rural Areas, Islamabad, that the vacations will be observed from Dec 25 to Dec 29, adding that the education activities will be resumed from January 1, 2024.
Furthermore, the officials also announced the school’s timings for all schools in urban and rural areas of the capital as cold wave grips parts of the country including the capital. FDE also mentioned that revised school timings will remain effective until January 31, 2024.
It said that the classes will start at 8:30 am and will end at 2:00 pm on Monday through Thursday in schools operating in single shifts. On Friday, the classes will culminate at 12:30 pm.
However, for schools with double shifts, the morning session will run from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm from Monday to Thursday, and Friday classes will conclude at 12:30 pm. The evening shift will begin at 1:00 pm and end at 6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, with Friday classes starting at 2:30 pm after Jumma prayer.
Earlier, Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the date for winter vacation at the schools and colleges in the province. He said the winter vacations for children will commence from Dec 18, 2023, to Jan 1, 2024.
Similarly, the Sindh Department of Education has announced winter vacation for all educational institutions, starting from December 22.  A notification issued by the education department said the vacations will be observed till December 31.

Writer and intellectual Wasatullah Khan, Nazir Leghari, Hussain Khan, Riaz Sohail on stage in a session during 9th Ayaz Mela at Sindh Museum

By
Zia Ur Rehman
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Writer and intellectual Wasatullah Khan, Nazir Leghari, Hussain Khan, Riaz Sohail on stage in a session during 9th Ayaz Mela at Sindh Museum
APP55-221223 HYDERABAD: December 22 – Writer and intellectual Wasatullah Khan, Nazir Leghari, Hussain Khan, Riaz Sohail on stage in a session during 9th Ayaz Mela at Sindh Museum. APP/AKS/ABB
Writer and intellectual Wasatullah Khan, Nazir Leghari, Hussain Khan, Riaz Sohail on stage in a session during 9th Ayaz Mela at Sindh Museum
APP55-221223
HYDERABAD: December 22 –
Writer and intellectual Wasatullah Khan, Nazir Leghari, Hussain Khan, Riaz Sohail on stage in a session during 9th Ayaz Mela at Sindh Museum
APP56-221223
HYDERABAD: December 22 – Girls showing keen interest in portraits displayed during 9th Ayaz Mela at Sindh Museum. APP/AKS/ABB

Governor Balochistan Malik Abdul Wali Khan Kakar calls on President Dr Arif Alvi, at Aiwan-e-Sadr

By
Zia Ur Rehman
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Governor Balochistan Malik Abdul Wali Khan Kakar calls on President Dr Arif Alvi, at Aiwan-e-Sadr
APP54-221223 ISLAMABAD: December 22 – Governor Balochistan Malik Abdul Wali Khan Kakar calls on President Dr Arif Alvi, at Aiwan-e-Sadr. APP/ABB
Governor Balochistan Malik Abdul Wali Khan Kakar calls on President Dr Arif Alvi, at Aiwan-e-Sadr
APP54-221223
ISLAMABAD: December 22 – 

Secretary Industries Punjab visits RDA to inspect under construction BFC

By
NNPS Desk
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Secretary Industries Punjab

RAWALPINDI, Dec 22 (APP): Secretary Industries, Commerce, Investment and Skills Development Department, Punjab Ehsan Bhutta along with Commissioner Rawalpindi Division Liaquat Ali Chatta here on Friday visited Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) to inspect the under-construction Business Facilitation Center (BFC).

The Secretary on the occasion said that the purpose of establishing the BFC is to provide maximum facilities to the industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs for obtaining No Objection Certificate (NOC).

“In Lahore, we have done this work on December 4, 2023. The objective of establishing a BFC in Rawalpindi is to provide facilities to the business community in Rawalpindi city and to reduce their problems.

Ease of doing business is what the government is committed to and efforts are being made to provide all facilities under one roof. We have put red carpet instead of red tab to solve all the problems of the business community.”

Liaquat Ali Chatta said that the authority was serving as the country’s inaugural business hub with the aim of highlighting the country at the World Economic Forum.

A Business Facilitation Center would soon be set up to bring all the services being provided by various departments under one roof to facilitate the business community, he added.

He said that the Business Facilitation Center would guide and process the applications of the investors for issuance of requisite NOCs/RLCOs.

He added that the departmental representative would also be available at BFC for prompt action and guidance on the requests of the business community within the stipulated period to improve the business environment in the city.

The Commissioner directed the authorities concerned that approval of individual commercial and industrial constructions should be made possible in 30 days, completion certificate in 30 days and change of land use in 45 days.

On the occasion, President Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce Saqib Rafique, Chief Engineer RDA, Muhammad Anwar Baran, Director Architecture, RDA Shuja Ali, Director MP&TE, Jamshed Aftab, Director Engineering Muhammad Kamran, Deputy Director, IT Dawood Khalid Awan, other officers and businessmen were also present.

Nomination papers deadline extended, says Chohan

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ECP
QUETTA, Dec 22 (APP): Provincial Election Commissioner Balochistan Ejaz Chohan on Friday said that the deadline for filing the nomination papers for polls 2024 has been extended by two days.
Earlier, the deadline for filing the nomination papers for the general elections 2024 was 22 December 2023.The contesting candidates now may file nomination papers till 24 December 2024, said the ECP provincial chief.
As per the ECP schedule, the process to file nomination papers for national and provincial assembly seats commenced on Dec 20.The deadline for the filing of papers was set to expire at 4:30 pm today (Friday). However at the request of the political parties and contesting candidates, the deadline was extended. Mr Chohan further said.
It may be recalled that returning officers will examine the nomination papers from Dec 25 to Dec 30, as specified in the schedule. Similarly, In Balochistan, the filing of nomination papers for 16 national and 51 provincial assembly seats continued on Friday.
JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani, Yaqoob Nasar, Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, Sardar Sarbulan Jogezai, Maulana Hidayatur Rehman Baloch, Aslam Bhootani, nawabzada Gazain Bugti, Rozi Khan Kakar, Nawab Ayaz Jogezai, Khushal Khan Kakar are prominent among others who have so far filed nomination papers to contest from different constituencies.

Int’l workshop on ‘Control of Infectious Diseases’ from Dec 26

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
COMSTECH
ISLAMABAD, Dec 22 (APP): A three-day International Workshop titled “Outbreak Investigation and Control of Infectious Diseases” will be kicked off at COMSTECH Secretariat on December 26 with the presence of national and international speakers.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the attention of the global community and rekindled the debate about our ability to prevent and manage outbreaks, epidemics, and pandemics.
To control infectious diseases, human, animal, and environmental factors need to be considered together, based on the One Health perspective.
Keeping in mind the immense importance of the subject, COMSTECH, in collaboration with Pasteur Institute of Iran is organizing this International workshop with several internationally renowned speakers and conveners.
This workshop will cover several important topics such as  Environmental investigation, Laboratory investigation, Data management in outbreaks, Outbreak control measures, Agency roles and responsibilities for outbreak management, case studies etc.
About the workshop outcomes, the official said that the course is expected to provide training on the most important topics including outbreaks and related concepts, the general framework of the outbreak investigation, evaluation and confirmation of the outbreak, outbreak description, types of studies in the outbreaks, use of Microsoft Excel in outbreak investigation, environmental and clinical surveys and measurements, collection, labeling, and transfer of sample and preparing the report for the outbreaks, critical thinking at different stages; before and during sampling, analysis, reporting, writing, and providing feedback.
The topics will also include technical and cultural issues during the outbreak investigations, risk communications and lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic
The onsite speakers of the event would be Professor of Medical Biotechnology at the Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Dr. Kayhan Azadmanesh (Ph.D); Assistant Professor of Medical Biotechnology at the Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Dr. Arash Arashkia (Ph.D); Assistant Professor of Epidemiology at the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Dr. Fahimeh Bagheri Amiri (Ph.D) and Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Dr. Sana Eybpoosh (Ph.D).
The other speakers included Head of Bacteriology Department of Pasteur Institute of Iran, Dr. Mahdi Rouhani (Ph.D); Professor, National Institute of Virology, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Dr Atia tul Wahab (Ph.D) and Assistant Professor, National Institute of Virology, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Dr. Saba Farooq (Ph.D).
Healthcare professionals engaged in disease surveillance and control at peripheral levels, including general practitioners, as well as individuals holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant fields can attend the course.
The course will include both a pre-test and a post-test. Three outstanding participants will be selected based on their active engagement in workshop activities and their performance in the post-test and will be duly recognized with a certificate or letter of appreciation.
The details about the workshop can be accessed through the web link: https://comstech.org/international-workshop-outbreak-investigation-and-control/.

President, PM hold telephonic conversation; express concern over inappropriate police treatment against Baloch protestors

By
Ishtiaq Rao
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0
President, PM

ISLAMABAD, Dec 22 (APP): President Dr Arif Alvi and Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Friday held a telephonic conversation wherein they expressed concern over the inappropriate police treatment with the Baloch protestors.

Discussing the situation, both the president and prime minister viewed that the police should not have dealt with the protestors strictly, a President House press release said.

During the conversation, the prime minister told the president that the detained protestors were being released on personal bonds.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Governor Malik Abdul Wali Khan Kakar also called on President Alvi and discussed the overall situation in Balochistan province as well as police maltreatment against the Baloch protestors.

The governor viewed that the police should show restraint towards the protestors.

In the meeting, the two sides believed that the police should not have acted beyond their limits and powers.

Both leaders emphasized the measures to improve the law and order situation in Balochistan.

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