PM calls for resolving Kashmir dispute as per wishes of Kashmiris

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 9:10 PM

MUZAFFARABAD, Dec 14 (APP):Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar Thursday called for permanent and final settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute according to the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

He was talking to a delegation of Hurriyat leaders from Jammu and Kashmir.

The leaders thanked the prime minister for condemning the Indian Supreme Court’s validation of the illegal and unilateral step of India regarding the status of Jammu and Kashmir.

They praised the prime minister for his participation in the special session of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, saying the PM represented the sentiments of Kashmiris during his address to the Assembly.

PM Kakar said he brought the message of State of Pakistan to Azad Jammu and Kashmir that Pakistan would always extend political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiris.

The Foreign Ministry and Pakistani missions abroad would increase their contacts with international think tanks, media and academia to better highlight the case of Kashmir at the international level, he said, adding a strategy would be formulated to effectively present the case of Kashmir in Washington DC, London, Brussels and other important capitals of the world.

A meeting of the Foreign Ministry and Hurriyat leaders would be held soon so that the leaders could give their proposals to strengthen the Kashmir cause, he added.

The prime minister emphasized that the overseas Kashmiris could play a very pivotal role for the Kashmir cause. “We categorically reject the decision of Indian Supreme Court regarding the illegal position of India about the status of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.

PM Kakar said Jammu and Kashmir was an established dispute at the international level and was an unfinished agenda of the United Nations Security Council for more than seven decades.

“The permanent and final resolution of Jammu and Kashmir issue should be according to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.”

India could not absolve itself of its international obligations by hiding behind its so-called legislation and court decisions, he asserted.

The Kashmiri leaders, including Mehmood Ahmad Sagar, Ghulam Muhammad Safi, Altaf Hussain Wani, Syed Faiz Naqashbandi, Sheikh Abdul Mateen, Saleem Haroon, Sheikh Muhammad Yaqoob, Imtiaz Wani, Syed Manzoor Shah, Manzoor Qadir, Hafiz Hamid Raza, Maulana Imtiaz Siddique, Syed Yasir Abbas, Syed Jawwadul Hassan, Sardar Amjad Yousaf, Mian Abdul Waheed, Daniyal Shahab Madni, Dr Mushtaq Sardar, Sardar Abdul Qayyum, Raja Farooq Haider, Sardar Attique and others attended the meeting.

AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwaarul Haq was also present.

Federal Secretary Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Hassan Nasir Jamy addressing “Education Transformation Agreement Signing Ceremony, Launch of Imagine Cup, Founders Hub & Al Skilling

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Zia Ur Rehman

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 9:01 PM

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APP60-141223 ISLAMABAD: December 14 - Federal Secretary Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Hassan Nasir Jamy addressing "Education Transformation Agreement Signing Ceremony, Launch of Imagine Cup, Founders Hub & Al Skilling". APP/ZID

CEO of PTCL, Ufone announces 100pc stake acquisition in Telenor Pakistan

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NNPS Desk

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 8:36 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 14 (APP): Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PTCL and Ufone, Hatem Bamatraf, announced on Thursday the acquisition of a 100 percent stake in Telenor Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd (Telenor Pakistan).

During a press conference attended by high officials of the PTCL Ufone Group, he said that this strategic alignment would bring significant benefits for consumers and stakeholders alike.

Bamatraf highlighted that the primary beneficiaries of this deal would be the consumers, who can expect improved services as a result of this integration.

He mentioned that the joint entity, with its diverse range of products and services, was committed to delivering the best services across all sectors. “The collaborative agency aims to provide consumers with an extensive range of products and services,” he added.

The merger of Telenor will play a crucial role in establishing a modern network infrastructure in Pakistan, contributing to the country’s technological advancement.

He hoped that the collaboration would bring additional benefits to consumers and stakeholders, contributing to the creation of a historic telecommunications system that fosters connectivity and supports the digital transformation journey.

He said that the completion of the acquisition was subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. PTCL is actively working towards a smooth transition process to ensure minimal disruption for employees, customers, and other stakeholders, he said and added, the acquisition brings together the strengths and expertise of both PTCL Group and Telenor Pakistan, creating synergies that will drive innovation and bolster the market, allowing us to reach a broader customer base and accelerate the digital transformation journey,” he said.

He expressed the confidence that the strategic synergies created by combining forces with Telenor Pakistan would result in enhanced value for customers and stakeholders, as they were the ultimate beneficiaries of this transaction.

He further said that both PTCL and Telenor possessed strong and talented teams that would be dedicated to developing a culture of delivery and teamwork by adopting the best practices of both companies.

“The combined entity will serve as a best-in-class provider across all domains with better coverage, seamless data experience, massive reach, and a wide range of products and services for customers,” he added.

Group CEO Hatem Dowidar said, “The strategic acquisition of Telenor Pakistan presents a significant opportunity for market consolidation, empowering us to invest more in creating the best next-generation network in Pakistan. This move reinforces our commitment to the progress of the country’s telecom sector, delivering added value to our customers and shareholders. In shaping a telecom legacy where innovation and connectivity merge to explore future opportunities, we aim to accelerate digital transformation to better serve our customers and community.”

Hassan Nasir Jamy, Chairman of PTCL Board, said, “PTCL Group has played a pivotal role in connecting the people of Pakistan. This commitment further solidifies our resolve to build a prosperous and digitally connected nation and to be the national champion to support Pakistan’s digital transformation. This agreement will go a long way in ensuring that we provide our customers with the most efficient and technologically advanced solutions.”

George highlights services of unsung heroes of Christian community country’s development

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NNPS Desk

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 8:29 PM

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PESHAWAR, Dec 14 (APP): Caretaker Federal Minister for Human Rights Khalil George on Thursday highlighted the services of unsung heroes of minority communities, particularly Christians, for the development of country.

He was addressing an event “Unfaded heroes of Christian Community in KP” held at the Governor House, in collaboration with the Pak Mission Society.

The momentous occasion celebrated the remarkable contributions of 68 individuals from the Christian community in the development of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan in general.

Minister George said,”Pakistan is our country and we are living here happy and getting equal rights. Pakistan came into being after the sacrifices of our forefathers.”

He called for creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their background, could thrive and contribute to shared progress.

The minister stressed the importance of ensuring that development initiatives were inclusive and considerate of the needs of all communities.

KP Governor Haji Ghulam Ali, in his address, reinforced the significance of diversity, unity, and interfaith harmony in the province.

Acknowledging the rich diversity that defines Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he emphasized its role as a strength that contributed to shared prosperity.

The governor reaffirmed a commitment to a future marked by tolerance, inclusivity, and prosperity for all.

He called for continued collaboration and understanding to build a province that “serves as an example of unity in diversity”.

He said,”Our religion Islam stresses us for interfaith harmony and respect of others.”

Former minister Dr Sarah Safdar expressed her gratitude to the awardees, emphasizing their dedication and hard work that not only elevated their respective fields but also played a pivotal role in the overall development of society.

Awards were presented to Christian professionals, recognizing their unwavering commitment to the services of the country.

Adeel Rehmat, CEO of Pak Mission Society, lauded the unsung heroes, urging the audience to appreciate and embrace the diverse contributions of each community.

He commended the prevailing spirit of interfaith harmony in the province, encouraging continued efforts to build bridges of understanding and tolerance.

Dr Samson Griffin Chairman of Pak Mission Society, concluded the event by cutting a Christmas cake, symbolizing shared joy and unity.

Shields and awards were distributed among the participants.

ECP refutes allegations of filing reference in SC

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NNPS Desk

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 8:28 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 14 (APP): The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) vehemently refuted news circulating on private TV channels, including ARY, alleging that the ECP was preparing to file a reference in the Supreme Court.

The ECP spokesperson, in a statement, dismissed the news aired by TV channels, describing it as baseless.

He said that the Commission retained the right to pursue legal action against those disseminating such misleading information.

“The Election Commission is executing a comprehensive plan to ensure transparent elections, with all targets being accomplished within the set timeframe,” he added.

Delegation of Telenor, Etisalat Group meets IT minister

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NNPS Desk

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 8:23 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 14 (APP): A delegation comprising on the heads of Telenor Etisalat Group met with Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Dr Umar Saif here Thursday.

The discussion focused on advancements in the telecom sector and the transition of Telenor’s operations to PTCL, said a news release.

The delegation included Mikhail Gerchuk, CEO International Etisalat Group; Abdulrahim Al Nooryani, Chairman Etisalat International Pakistan; Hatem Bamatraf, CEO PTCL/Ufone; Petter-Børre Furberg, Head of Telenor Asia and Khurrum Ashfaque, CEO Telenor Pakistan.

The minister expressed positivity about PTCL’s acquisition of Telenor operations in Pakistan. The merger would strengthen digital connectivity and contribute to the overall growth of the telecom sector, he added.

The Ministry of IT, he said, is committed to enhancing telecom services, with a focus on improving quality and accessibility across the country.

Dr Umar Saif asked telecom companies to proactively take measures to deliver superior services to consumers, emphasizing the sector’s significant contribution to the nation’s progress. He also announced that spectrum auctions would be held soon.

BISP providing social, economic protection to deserving women; Noreen Zahra

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NNPS Desk

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 8:10 PM

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KHANEWAL, Dec 14 (APP): Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) was providing social and economic protection to the deserving women.
While talking to media persons, Deputy Director BISP Noreen Zahra said that the payment of second quarter of the current fiscal year Rs 8500 was being made through 116 Retailer Centers to 1,55,250 eligible women under BISP Kifalat programme across the district.
She further informed that 58543 eligible women of the district have been paid so far and strict monitoring is being done to ensure the transparency.
She stated that 14 payment centers of the district have been blocked over complaints.
She informed that 27 Dynamic Centers had been established for the registration in Khanewal district. While 7,000 pregnant women have been given a bag of food to meet their nutritional needs and Rs 2500 financial assistance installment is also being offered, she told.
Likewise, she said that special counters were established for the registration of elderly and disabled women whose registration was being done on priority basis, adding that the registration was free of cost.

Kashmiris to continue liberation struggle in IIOJK till they achieve their freedom: AJK PM

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NNPS Desk

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Thu, 14 Dec 2023, 8:05 PM

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MIRPUR ( AJK): Dec 14 (APP) :: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq Thursday said that the ongoing liberation struggle in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) would continue till the Kashmiris achieve their cherished goal of freedom.

While addressing a special session of the AJK Assembly in the State metropolis, the AJK prime minister said that the government of AJK would utilize its all available resources to strengthen the Kashmir cause and freedom struggle.

“Strengthening the ongoing liberation movement and promoting Kashmir cause both at national and international level is the government’s top priority”, he said, adding that there was a dire need to evolve a comprehensive policy to highlight the plight of Kashmiris at the international level besides exposing India’s nefarious designs in the region.

Regarding the Indian government’s hostile approach, he said that it was useless to expect any good from a fascist regime that is hugely influenced by the RSS Hindutva philosophy that revolves around establishing a Hindu Rashtra.

“It is time to move beyond the political rhetoric”, he said, adding that issuing condemnation statements won’t really help to change the situation on the ground.

The prime minister said the relationship between Pakistan and Kashmiris is that of brotherhood and affection. A strong and prosperous Pakistan was a guarantor of Kashmiris’ freedom movement, he added.

Referring to his government’s commitment to improve the lives of people in AJK, he said, “The government will put to use all the state resources for the welfare of its people”.

Expressing his confidence in the country’s defence system and armed forces’ ability to thwart foreign aggression on the LoC, Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq said that India cannot dare to cast an evil eye on Pakistan.

He also paid tributes to the Kashmiri martyrs. The AJK prime minister while welcoming Prime Minister of Pakistan said that his visit had boosted the morale of Kashmiri people on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC).