ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):The Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) based weekly inflation for the week ended on October 19 for the combined income groups decreased by 0.46 percent as compared to the previous week.
The SPI for the week under review in the above mentioned group was recorded at 225.23 points against 224.20 points last week, according to the latest data released by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Friday.
As compared to the corresponding week of last year, the SPI for the combined group in the week under review witnessed increase of 2.21 per cent.
The weekly SPI has been computed with base 2007, 2008=100, covering 17 urban centers and 53 essential items for all income groups.
Meanwhile, the SPI for the lowest income group up to Rs 8,000 increased by 0.46 percent as it went down from 215.27 points in the previous week to 216.27 points in the week under review.
As compared to the last week, the SPI for the income groups from Rs 8001 to 12,000, Rs 12,001 to 18,000, Rs 18,001 to 35,000 and above Rs 35,000, also increased by 0.46 percent, 0.47 percent, 0.47 percent and 0.45 percent respectively.
During the week under review, average prices of 09 items registered decrease, while 14 items increased with the remaining 30 items’ prices unchanged.
The items, which registered decrease in their prices during the week under review included garlic, mash pulse, moong pulse, bananas, sugar, gur, gram pulse, vegetable ghee and red chilly powder.
The items, which registered increase in their prices during the week under review included chicken (farm), onions, tomatoes, eggs, potatoes, LPG Cylinder, rice (Basmati broken), wheat, mutton, mustard oil, rice (irri-6), masoor pulse, firewood and wheat flour.
The items with no change in their average prices during the week under review included bread, beef, milk (fresh), curd, milk (powdered), cooking oil, vegetable ghee, salt, tea (packet), cooked beef, cooked daal, tea (prepared), cigarettes, long cloth, shirting, lawn, georgette, gents sandal, gents chappal, ladies sandal, electricity charges, gas charges, kerosene oil, electric bulb, washing soap, match box, petrol, hi speed diesel, telephone local call and bath soap.
Weekly inflation increases by 0.46 percent
PM addresses D-8 Istanbul Summit; seeks enhanced Pak-D8 members trade, economic partnerships
By Shahid Saleem Khan
ISTANBUL, Oct 20 (APP): With focus on upgrading its communications, energy infrastructure, and enhancing regional connectivity under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Pakistan on Friday sought enhanced trade and economic partnerships with D-8 member states through stronger rail, road, air and sea links ,a win-win for all.
“Connectivity-led growth is a good example of South-South cooperation. We seek similar partnerships with D-8 member states – through road and rail routes, where possible, but also through stronger air and sea connections,” Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said while addressing the opening session of 9th D-8 Summit being hosted by Turkey in this historic city.
Pakistan, which remained the Chairman of this organization of eight developing nations since 2012, also handed over the Chair to Turkey at the Summit’s opening session.
The 9th D-8 summit hosted by Turkey, with the theme Expanding Opportunities through Cooperation, was attended by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, Azerbaijani leader Ilham Aliyev, Iran’s first vice president Eshaq Jahangiri and the vice president of Indonesia Jusuf Kalla.
Prime Minister Abbasi said as Pakistan was celebrating seventy years of its Independence, it was confronted with many challenges over the last decade. “We faced unrelenting terrorism emanating from instability in our neighbourhood and the environment in the region and beyond.”
He, however, stressed that as a result of a comprehensive strategy and unwavering resolve, Pakistan had successfully turned the tide.
“Improved security has led to economic recovery. Pakistan’s economy has recorded a significant revival in the past four years. Over this time, we have focused on upgrading our communications and energy infrastructure, and enhancing regional connectivity,” he added.
The Prime Minister said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will further put our economy on an upward trajectory of robust growth. “We are also working on energy connectivity projects. Pakistan’s integration into the Eurasian Belt and Road network will provide a firm foundation for Pakistan’s rapid economic development,” he added.
He appreciated the very apt theme for the 9th D-8 Summit chosen by Turkey as “Expanding Opportunities through Cooperation” and said it was in complete harmony with the post-2017 development agenda, visualising sustainable development as one of the core elements of people-centric development.
“Indeed, shared and joint prosperity is the only form of secure and sustainable prosperity. Inclusion based on collaboration ensures that there are no losers in the development effort – all are winners.”
Prime Minister Abbasi said Pakistan assumed the Chair of D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation in November 2012 at the eighth Summit in Islamabad, which adopted two landmark documents: the D-8 Charter and the Global Vision. These documents have provided the essential basis for our joint endeavours, he added.
The Prime Minister said as Chair, Pakistan made every effort to proactively lead the Organization towards the realization of its objectives and vision. It was a privilege for us to host the Summit Meeting, two sessions of the Council and four sessions of the D-8 Commission and a number of Sectoral meetings since November 2012, he added.
Another significant milestone achieved during this period was the Observer Status for D-8 at the United Nations, he said, adding, this status enabled the Organization to closely interact with various UN agencies and affiliated institutions for cooperative arrangements in priority areas for us.
The status has also given the D-8 an enhanced profile and standing at the international level, he remarked.
The Prime Minister said, “As we gather here to renew our collective pledge to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, we must also take stock of the progress made so far on trade and economic partnership goals we set for ourselves. This Summit is a good opportunity for us to identify and remove the impediments in the way of achieving the Organization’s objectives.”
He said twenty years ago, a shared vision motivated the leaders of our countries to establish this Organization to promote cooperation in the key areas of agriculture, industry, SMEs, trade, transportation, energy and tourism. “However, the progress achieved so far falls short of our expectations, necessitating measures to accelerate momentum for stronger partnership,” he added.
The Prime Minister pointed towards the stagnation of intra D-8 trade, after an initial increase, adding, the apprehension is that the target of US $ 500 billion in 2018, envisaged in the 2008 Kuala Lumpur Summit Roadmap, might remain elusive.
“It is, therefore, important for us to fully implement various instruments and agreements aimed at facilitating trade amongst member states, especially those related to Preferential Trade, Small and Medium Enterprises, Customs, Simplification of Visa matters and Civil Aviation. This would certainly pave the way for substantial increase intra D-8 trade,”, he added.
The Prime Minister said sectoral meetings at the ministerial level have already chalked out the roadmaps. Now is the time to start implementation. There may be challenges, but there are also opportunities like never before, he added.
“While it is imperative for the governments of member countries to facilitate trade and investment by adopting the necessary legal framework for investment protection and creating an enabling environment for business in their respective countries, it is the private sector that can make the best use of emerging opportunities for trade and joint ventures. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that we also actively promote entrepreneurship in our countries,” he added.
The Prime Minister said, “The 20th Anniversary of the D-8 is an occasion for us to renew our commitment to the accelerated realization of its vision and objectives. As a group, the D-8 has vast potential and resources.”
“However, realising our combined potential and optimising our collective resources requires cooperation and collaboration amongst us at every level and every field. Only then will we be able to attain the critical synergy that will bring shared, secure and sustainable prosperity to our nations,” he added.
The Prime Minister said while he was certain that the Organization would continue to move steadily along the path of even more robust economic cooperation, it was also their sincere desire to see the D-8 enter the project-implementation phase with clear focus on the development, progress and prosperity of our peoples.
“We also aspire for it to have a stronger voice at the international level,” he added.
The Prime Minister handed over to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Chair of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation.
“Mr. President, I congratulate you on assuming the Chair of the D-8 Summit. I am confident that your wisdom, sagacity, dynamism and firm commitment will bring new vigour to the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation,” he added.
The Prime Minster said he and his delegation were deeply touched by the warm welcome and hospitality they received ever since their arrival. “I must commend the Government of Turkey for the excellent arrangements made for this Summit,” he added.
The Prime Minister also expressed his profound appreciation to Secretary General Seyed Ali Mohammad Mousavi for efficiently steering the agenda of the D-8 Organization For Economic Cooperation during his tenure in office.
“On behalf of the people and government of Pakistan, I assure you of our full support and cooperation in our collective efforts to achieve tangible results. In Pakistan, you will always find a willing partner and friend,” he added.
President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan also addressed the opening session of the Summit and spoke on various challenges faced by the Muslim world in general and the member states in particular in different spheres of life including the economic development.
UN urges more support for Rohingya in arc of misery
UNITED NATIONS, Oct 20 (APP):The U.N. migration agency has urged the international community to boost its support for Rohingya Muslims, fleeing Myanmar in the face of misery between the southeast country’s Rakhine State and Bangladesh.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) warned on Thursday that thousands will suffer if there is not greater
support for food, shelter and healthcare for an estimated 800,000 refugees, now residing in Bangladesh.
“The world has rarely witnessed a refugee crisis of such speed, with more than half a million crossing into
Bangladesh in just over a month, said the IOM’s Director General William Lacy Swing after a visit to Cox’s Bazar,
Bangladesh.
As of Thursday, at least 589,000 new arrivals from Rakhine State have been recorded in Bangladesh since Aug 25,
spurred by clearing operations conducted by Myanmar’s Tatmadaw army.
“The arc of misery that exists between Northern Rakhine state and Cox’s Bazar is deeply upsetting “ too many people
suffering desperately with too little support, said Swing.
In a report released on Friday, UNICEF said that 61 percent of the refugees are children “ a shocking proportion of
whom are suffering from malnutrition.”
“This crisis is stealing their childhoods. We must not let it steal their futures at the same time. Or the region will pay
the price for many years to come, the agency’s Executive Director,” Anthony Lake, said.
UNICEF’s report describes a dire situation of children in refugee camps in Bangladesh, forced to assist their families
to find food, build shelter and collect water in squalid conditions. Many have witnessed murders and molestation in
Myanmar.
There are at least 882 unaccompanied or separated children in the camps, it said. IOM’s Swing said “I saw women
carrying small babies, only a few days old, sometimes born while their young mothers were fleeing deadly violence in
torrential rains. I saw young children, who had lost not just their parents, but any remnants of hope.”
Earlier in October, UNICEF launched a campaign to raise US$76.1 million for its emergency humanitarian response
to the Rohingya crisis. Its report on Friday said that only 7 percent of the appeal has been funded to date. Moreover,
it needs US$13 million for operations to support children within Myanmar.
The crisis shows no sign of abating. Some 15,000 people fled into Bangladesh on Oct 16 alone, according to the
UN refugee agency.
Renewed violence broke out in the Rakhine in late August after Rohingya militants attacked police and military outposts.
The Tatmadaw has now been accused of widespread arson, extrajudicial killings and rape.
Sumera to attend international coaching programs in Switzerland
LAHORE, Oct 20 (APP):Pakistan Olympic Association has nominated Sumera Sattar to attend International coaching enrichment certificate programme (ICECP) being held from April 26 , next year in Lausanne, Switzerland.
” US Olympic Committee partnering with IOC Olympic Solidarity had invited Pakistan Olympic Association/ NOC Pakistan (along with other NOCs) to submit application of a suitable candidate for the 10th Edition of programme “, said Secretary, POA, Mohammad Khalid Mahmood here on Friday.
He said Eventually the application of Sumera Sattar, nominee of Pakistan Basketball Federation was accepted by the ICECP and her scholarship for the subject program was also approved by IOC.
This is a matter of great honour for Olympic family of Pakistan that out of four modules, she has successfully completed her first 3 modules at Delaware University, USA and US Olympic Training Center Colorado ending on 20 October 2017 whereas the last module will take place at IOC Headquarter, Lausanne, Switzerland from 26 April to 01 May, 2018.
Globally ‘Polio day’ to be celebrated on October 24
ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):Like other parts of the globe, World Polio Day will be celebrated in Pakistan on Tuesday (Oct 24) to create awareness about the hazards of the crippling disease.
According to a report aired by a private news channel , the purpose behind observing the World Polio Day is to create awareness among the people about the disease. The day is also observed to pay tribute to the US researcher Dr Jonaas Salk for inventing polio vaccine.
Polio is a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease. There is no cure, but there are safe and effective vaccines.
Polio can be prevented through immunization. Polio vaccine, given multiple times, almost always protects a child for life.
October 24, 2017 several activities have been planned by various organizations and health institutions to mark the day, including awareness walks, seminars, symposium and group discussions, to ensure that no child will ever again know the crippling effects of polio.
In 1988 Albert Sabin developed an oral polio vaccine which has reduced worldwide polio incidence by 99%.
According to a polio eradication programme official, the authorities concerned of provincial governments had been asked to ensure 100 per cent coverage during every polio immunization drive.
The official said the government and development partners were making all possible efforts to make Pakistan a polio-free country and sought the support of the general public and local communities.
He said the polio eradication plan calls for ensuring that every child was immunized even in the high-risk areas of the country.
Motorcycle production rises 34.81pc in two months
ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):The motorcycles production in the country witnessed a sharp increase of 34.81 per cent during first two months (July-August) of the year 2017-18 as compared to same period of last year.
The motorbikes production jumped to 324,824 units in July- August (2017-18) from the production of 240,937 units in same period of last year, according to latest data released by Pakistan Automotive Manufacturing Association (PAMA).
The breakup figures show that production of Honda motor bikes increased by 36.9 during the corresponding period as it went up from 136,890 units in July-August (2016-17) to 187,410 units in same period of current year.
Similarly, the production of Yamaha two wheelers, also witnessed an increase of 130 per cent as it increased from 1334 units in first two months of fiscal year 2016-17 to 3,068 units this year.
Suzuki manufactured 3,488 two-wheelers during the period under review while during same period of last year, 3,137 units were produced.
The production of United Auto motorcycles also increased from 49,464 units to 66,574 units this year, thus showing an increase of 34.6 per cent during the corresponding year.
Road Prince motorcycles also increased its production during the period under review as its production went up from 34,325 units in first two months of fiscal year 2016-17 to 43,395 units in same period of current fiscal year thus showing an increase of 24.4 per cent.
In addition, production of Ravi motorcycles increased by 64 per cent as 5,122 units were manufactured during the period under review while during same period of last year 3,106 motorcycles were manufactured.
The manufacturing of Hero bikes jumped from only 318 units in July-August (2016-17) to 1,923 units in same period of current year, thus showing a surge of 504 per cent.
Among three-wheelers, Sohrab manufactured 940 units during July-August (2017-18) as compared to the production of 1,002 units in same period of last year.
Likewise, Qinqqi three-wheelers also witnessed a decrease of 31 per cent as it declined to 3,418 units in first two months of 2017-18 from 4,995 units in same period of previous year.
Sazgar three-wheelers however, witness a slight increase of 3.25 per cent as its production went up from 3,717 units in July- August (2016-17) to 3,838 units this year.
Most of foreign investment came to Pakistan through CPEC: Ahsan
ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal said on Friday that most of the foreign investment came to Pakistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Talking to a delegation of students in Islamabad on Friday, Interior minister said connectivity through this mega project would enhance trade opportunities for Pakistan with 70 per cent of the international maritime trade via Pakistan’s two big ports of Karachi and the new Chinese built port of Gwadar, Radio Pakistan reported.
Minister said Pakistan will soon become the choice destination for foreign investment.
The Minister said that an international journal has recently included Pakistan in five rising economies of the world.
He said despite attempts to impede the economic growth, the PML-N government still succeeded in achieving highest growth of last ten years.
He said the Stock Exchange index also reached all-time high to historic 53000 points during the incumbent ruling and the trend needed to be maintained with further political stability in the country.
He said with projects of Energy and infrastructure new vistas of development will open.
“The World Bank (WB) has lauded Pakistan for improved economic condition”, he added provided political stability should prevail in the country for improved economy.
Seven thousand newborns die every day worldwide: UN
UNITED NATIONS, Oct 20 (APP):The number of children who die before reaching their fifth birthday has fallen to an all-time low, yet children around the world continue to die at an alarming rate, with 5.6 million deaths recorded last year, according to a new U.N. report, which called for making available most needed life-saving know-how and technologies “ particularly in Southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
In its annual report on child mortality, the UN said many of the deaths “ which averaged 15,000 a day in 2016 “ were from preventable diseases.
The report also warned that neonatal mortality “ the death of babies in the first 28 days of life “ is not decreasing at the same pace as mortality rates for children aged between one month and five years. Each day, a total of 7,000 babies die before they are 28 days old.
The report, entitled, Levels and Trends in Child Mortality 2017, was released Thursday by the Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (IGME) “ composed of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank and the Population Division in the UN Department for Economic and Social Affairs.
The lives of 50 million children under-five have been saved since 2000, a testament to the serious commitment by governments and development partners to tackle preventable child deaths, Stefan Swartling Peterson, the UN Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Chief of Health, said in a joint press statement.
But without a greater effort to stop babies from dying the day they are born, or days after their birth, this progress will remain incomplete. “We have the knowledge and technologies that are required, we just need to take them where they are most needed”, he added.
The current trends suggest that between 2017 and 2030, 30 million newborns will die within first 28 days of life. As such, the agencies stress that measures must be taken to achieve universal health coverage and ensure that more newborns survive and thrive, including by serving marginalized families.
To prevent illness, families require financial power, their voices to be heard and access to quality care, Dr. Flavia Bustreo, WHO’s Assistant Director-General for Family, Women’s and Children’s Health, said. Improving quality of services and timely care during and after childbirth must be prioritized.
Tim Evans, Senior Director of Health Nutrition and Population at the World Bank Group said that it is unconscionable that in 2017, pregnancy and child birth are still life-threatening conditions for women.
The best measure of success for universal health coverage is that every mother should not only be able to access health care easily, but that it should be quality, affordable care that will ensure a healthy and productive life for her children and family. We are committed to scaling up our financing to support country demand in this area, including through innovative mechanisms like the Global Financing Facility,he added, referring to the principle financing arm of the UN-backed Every Woman Every Child initiative.
Despite progress, large disparities in child survival still exist across regions and countries “ especially in Southern Asia sub-Saharan Africa.
This new report highlights the remarkable progress since 2000 in reducing mortality among children under age five, said UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Liu Zhenmin.
Yet many deaths at these ages are easily preventable through simple, cost-effective interventions administered before, during and immediately after birth. Reducing inequities and reaching the most vulnerable newborns, children and mothers are essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target on ending preventable childhood deaths and for ensuring that no one will be left behind.
CPEC to helpful for prosperity of Pakistan, AJK: Raja Nisar
ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):Acting Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Raja Nisar Ahmed Khan has said on Friday that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) brings trillion rupees investment in country and it will be very helpful for the prosperity of Pakistan and AJK Kashmir.
Talking to Radio Pakistan he said, the economic development in the AJK was the aim of the present government while the moral and diplomatic struggle for the Kashmiri people living in the Indian Occupied Kashmir would continue till the liberation and rights of the Kashmiris. China could help in the vocational training of the people of this country, he suggested.
Raja Nisar said welfare of people, development, quality education, and raising voice for the Kashmir liberation struggle are the priorities of the government.
On Kashmir issue, he said governments of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir are making their best efforts to highlight the Kashmir issue at international level.
Raja Nisar urged youth to highlight Kashmir issue through social media.
Thousands of desperate Muslims flee violence and persecution in Myanmar
Jeddah, Oct 20 (OIC-UNA/APP):Thousands more Rohingya Muslims are fleeing large-scale violence and persecution in Myanmar and crossing into Bangladesh, a drone video shot by the UN refugee agency shows.
More than half a million Rohingya are already living in squalid and overcrowded camps, where they lack access to food and healthcare, officials said.
The UNHCR video shows thousands upon thousands of Rohingya Muslims trudging along a narrow strip of land alongside what appears to be a rain-swollen creek in the Palong Khali area in southern Bangladesh.
An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 Rohingya have fled since Sunday night, UNHCR spokesman Andrej Mahecic said, raising the overall total to 582,000 refugees who have left Burma since 25 August.
He said the latest influx came through the Anjuman Para border crossing point, and many of the new refugees explained they had fled when their villages were set on fire. Anjuman Para is in the Palong Khali area where the drone video was shot.
“As of this morning, they are still squatting in the paddy fields of Anjuman Para village in Bangladesh,” Mahecic told a news briefing.
“They are waiting for permission to move away from the border, where the sound of gunfire continues to be heard every night from the Myanmar side,” he added, using an alternative word for Myanmar.
Violence in Buddhist-majority Burma’s Rakhine state erupted after a Rohingya insurgent group known as the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army attacked at least 30 security outposts on August 25 and the military responded with brutal attacks against the Rohingya Muslim population, The Independent reported.
The exodus of Rohingya has continued, with a few small breaks, over the last eight weeks. The new arrivals, almost all terrified and starving, have described scenes of incredible violence with army troops and Buddhist mobs attacking Rohingya homes.
The UN has described the violence as “textbook ethnic cleansing.” Many Buddhists in Burma call the Rohingya “Bengalis” and say they migrated illegally from Bangladesh, even though they have lived in the country for generations.
Most Rohingya have been denied citizenship since 1982 and are excluded from the country’s 135 official ethnic groups, which effectively renders them stateless.
US Secretary to discuss economy, joint efforts against terrorism during Pakistan visit
WASHINGTON, Oct. 20 (APP):US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will pay his maiden visit to Pakistan this month during which he would discuss joint efforts against terrorism and expanding economic ties between the two countries, a State Department spokesperson announced on Thursday.
The visit to Pakistan is part of Secretary Tillerson’s first visit to Asia, which will also take him to India, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Geneva, Spokesman Heather Nauert told a briefing at the State Department.
“The Secretary will meet with senior Pakistani leaders to discuss our continued bilateral cooperation, Pakistan’s critical role in the success of our South Asia strategy, and the expanding economic ties between our two countries,” the spokesperson said.
She said that the Secretary was due to meet with the prime minister, foreign minister, and senior military officials to discuss joint efforts between Pakistan and the United States to fight terrorist groups that threaten regional peace and stability and how “Pakistan can support our effort to reach a peaceful solution in Afghanistan”.
Secretary Tillerson’s visit to Islamabad follows the visit by Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif to Washington this month during which he met high US officials to discuss the US-Pakistan relations and the new South Asia strategy announced by President Trump in August.
In his meetings with the US officials, the Foreign Minister briefed them about Pakistan’s perspective on the US strategy and stressed the importance that Pakistan attaches to peace in Afghanistan. He also emphasized during his meetings the need the working together for regional peace and stability.
Responding to a question about the US-India ties and whether Washington would take side in issues between Pakistan and India like the cross border firing across the Line of Control, the Spokesperson said that the US had always been very cautious about addressing those issues, “not wanting to contribute to any additional tensions”.
After his visit to Islamabad, Secretary Tillerson will travel to New Delhi as part of his Asia visit. He will begin his visit from Oct.20 from Saudi Arabia where he will take part in the inaugural Coordination Council meeting between the Governments of Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
The Secretary will also meet with various Saudi leaders to discuss the conflict in Yemen, the ongoing Gulf dispute, Iran, and another – other important regional and bilateral issues.
Secretary Tillerson will then travel to Doha, where he will speak with Qatari leaders and U.S. military officials to discuss joint counterterrorism efforts and the ongoing Gulf dispute and other regional and bilateral issues, including both Iran and Iraq.
On the last leg of his visit, Secretary Tillerson will visit Geneva, where he will meet with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, International Organization for Migration and the International Committee of Red Cross to discuss Afghanistan and Pakistan and also a number of other global humanitarian crises including Burma and Syria.
2018 elections important for political parties: Zubair
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Governor Sindh Muhammad Zubair on Thursday said that 2018 general election was very important for all the
political parties.
The political parties should have to clear themselves from the legal process before going to public for
vote, he said while talking to a private news channel.
The Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), had given policy and performed well for the public, he said.
He said that despite the matter of disqualification of Nawaz Sharif, the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz
(PML-N), was fully united.
He said that educated people should come forward for politics.
To a question he said that he got the governorship through hardwork and performance.
National economy strengthening due to govt’s measures: Dar
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Minister for Finance, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Thursday said national economy was strengthening due to concrete measures taken by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government.
Talking to a private news channel, he said the country’s economy was much better as compared to 2013. China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would bring economic revolution in the country, he added.
The minister said the PML-N government initiated mega power projects in the country and overcame power loadshedding to a great extent.
He said, due to the hectic efforts of the government, China was investing in Pakistan and works on many motorways were underway. “We had achieved milestone in the economic sector.”
He said Pakistan had launched operations to completely eliminate terrorism with its available resources.
Ishaq Dar said that he was giving time to ministry affairs despite pleading a case against him.
Fulfillment of demands of justice, mutual respect among institutions was need of the hour.
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Minister for Sports and Inter-provincial Harmony Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada Thursday said that fulfillment of demands of justice and mutual respect among institutions for their respective powers was need of the hour.
Speaking at Meet the Press organized by the National Press Club, the minister said all the problems could be solved easily if the justice system in the country was rectified. The people needed speedy and inexpensive justices at their doorsteps, he added.
He called upon all the stakeholders particularly media and lawyer community to play their role in promoting inter-faith harmony in the country. The minister said no institution should try to encroach upon the judiciary.
To another question, he said avoiding confrontation with institutions was in the best interests of the country.
Riaz Pirzada said negotiation was in progress with Higher Education Commission (HEC) to set up a sports university at the sports complex. The HEC has been given a task in this regard and the Prime Minister would be briefed next week.
Earlier elected members of the National Press Club welcomed him on arrival. The minister also announced indoor sports equipment for the NPC.
Matter of QAU to be resolved soon: Dr Tariq
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Minister of State for Capital Administration and Development Division (CADD), Dr Tariq Fazal
Chaudhry on Thursday said that matter of Quaid e Azam University (QAU), would be resolved soon.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC), was monitoring the affairs of the QAU and the conflict would be
addressed in couple of days, he said while talking to a private news channel.
There had been a conflict between the student groups and administration, he said.
“We had made efforts in personal capacity to resolve the issues, ” he said.
To a question regarding negligence of doctors treating a person having AIDS and Hepatitis, in a
hospital, he said investigation would be held regarding the matter.
Constitution, Law not allow govt for 3 years: Ayaz Sadiq
LAHORE, Oct 19 (APP):National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Thursday met Punjab Assembly Speaker Rana Muhammad Iqbal at the latter’s assembly chamber.
Both the leaders exchanged views on assembly’s performance, parliamentary and political matters.
Ayaz Sadiq lauded the role of parliamentarians in resolving issues of the public.
Later talking to media, the National Assembly Speaker flayed the opponents and said, some elements wanted to gain power through undemocratic ways. However, he made it clear that such elements would not succeed in getting power through back door.
To a question, he insisted that the Constitution and Law did not allow forming government for three years, adding only those were airing such stunts who could not win the election and come to power.
The NA Speaker said their enemies wanted clash among the institutions which was not in favour of the country in any way.
He said, in Nawaz Sharif case, lawyers were appearing before the court.
Ayaz Sadiq told a questioner that Nawaz Sharif would return to Pakistan as soon as his spouse Kulsoom Nawaz’s condition was stable.
15 hurt in Mastung hand grenade blast
QUETTA, Oct 19 (APP):At least 15 people were injured in a blast at Sultan Shaheed Chowk near Habib Bank Limited (HBL) area of Mastung Bazaar on Thursday evening.
According to police sources, a hand grenade blast was occurred which was threw at Sultan Shaheed Chowk area, leaving 15 people injured on the spot.
The victims were shifted to nearby hospital for medical aid where some the victims were
referred to provincial civil hospital for further treatment.
The injured were identified as Sami Ullah, Abdul Aziz, Fraz Ahmed, Saidullah, Muhammad Din,
Nisar Ahmed, Hussain Bukhsh, Zubair Ahmed, Ali Hyider, Lal Muhammad, Imran,
Faiz Muhammad, Shuaib Ahmed, Abdul Qadir and Khalil Ahmed.
Law enforcement agencies reached the site and cordoned off the entire area.
Further investigation was underway.
Chief Minister Balochistan Nawab Sanaullah Khan Zehri strongly condemned the incident
and directed consultant authorities to provide all facilities medical aid to the victims during treatment.
Health Minister Rehmat Saleh Baloch condemned the incident and imposed emergency at
official hospital for ensuring best treatment of the victims.
Marriyum felicitates Hindu community on festive occasion of Divali
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Minister of state for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage Marriyum Aurangzeb in a message issued here Thursday
felicitated Hindu community in Pakistan on the festive occasion of Devali. She said that Devali was a festival of lights which conveyed the message that all of us had to spread the light of peace through our thought process and conduct.
The minister said that all the minorities in Pakistan including Hindus enjoyed equal rights as enshrined in the constitution and were playing a sterling role in the development of the country. She said that all Pakistanis including the minorities had to work collectively to make Pakistan prosperous and invincible.
Pakistan must move from improvement to implementation on GSP Plus
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Member of European Parliament (MEP) Sajjad Karim has expressed his desire to see Pakistan move from improvement stage towards the implementation stage of GSP Plus.
Dr. Karim- who played a lead role in securing the coveted trade scheme of Pakistan- voiced his opinion during a specially convened meeting of the International Trade Committee’s Monitoring Group of South Asia. Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce and Textile, Muhammad Pervaiz Malik, and Attorney General, Ashtar Ausaf Ali gave evidence on their country’s current GSP Plus status.
According to a message received here, Dr Karim speaking in Brussels said “ the relationship between the EU and Pakistan we, of course, regard as an important one. Under the GSP plus scheme Pakistan has benefited beyond expectations, with their garments export to EU increasing significantly since being awarded the trade status”.
Dr. Karim said it was pleasure to welcome Commerce Minister Muhammad Pervaiz Malik and Attorney General Ashtar Ausaf Ali to the European Parliament. He said I am grateful for the evidence they gave to the committee which will now become an official part of our policy making in regard to our trade relationship.
He said Pakistan must now ensure though that they move from the improvement stage to the implementation stage. They must continue to meet the target set by the EU that come as being a part of the GSP+ Scheme and retain the trade status that is helping to boost their economy.
He said there is need of trade diversification on many levels and business to business links between the EU and Pakistan must also be improved if trade and growth are to be increased.
The British MEP also noted the current political situation in the UK regarding Brexit, highlighting that the majority of Pakistan’s textiles exports go there, so this would have to be factored into any future policies.
Dr Karim was instrumental in Pakistan gaining its coveted GSP+ trade status and in 2005 was awarded the Sitara-i-Quaid i Azam – the highest national honour to non Pakistanis for services that have helped the country joining ranks with the British queen and Nelson Mandela.
Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua launches “Pakistan Alumni Society of Sri Lanka”
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):With the vision of “Re-Connecting the Alumni for Greater Collective Good”, the “Pakistan Alumni Society of Sri Lanka (PASS)” has launched ceremony in Colombo.
According to a messege received here, Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, Ms. Tehmina Janjua was the chief guest on the occasion and launched the alumni society in the presence of a large gathering including Sri Lankan ministers, dignitaries, representatives of armed forces, educational institutions, academia and people from different walks of life.
The Society aims to connect the universities of both countries under various scholarship programmes. Through this Alumni Society, the public and private sectors as well as civil society will be able to build networks and create professional opportunities that will contribute to the advanced knowledge development of two countries.
Addressing the gathering, the Foreign Secretary underscored that Pakistan had excelled in many fields of higher education, particularly medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and engineering, management & social sciences and provided a wonderful and cost effective option for talented Sri Lankan students.
Over the last many decades, thousands of Sri Lankan students and professionals had benefitted from education and training in Pakistan, she added.
Ms. Tehmina Janjua referred the visit of Prime Minister of Pakistan to Sri Lanka in 2016, during which Pakistan offered to develop a “Knowledge Corridor” for Sri Lankan students and civil and military personnel, through scholarships and trainings in our universities and training institutions. This initiative, termed as Prime Minister’s Pak-Lanka Knowledge Corridor, will open up immense opportunities for Sri Lankan nationals to study at higher education institutions of Pakistan on scholarships and highly concessional terms, she emphasized.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner-designate to Sri Lanka, Dr. Shahid Ahmad Hashmat said that the Alumni Society would engage the members and provided them means to learn, integrate, and share their experience and memories during their education and training for the benefits of a larger community.
He applauded the office bearers of the newly formed society and wished them all success in their endeavors to make it a great success and future oriented body.
Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Dr. Sarfraz Sipra briefed the audience about the prospects, vision and mission statement of the alumni society. He also announced the interim board which would work until the holding of first general meeting of the society in six months’ time.
All Sri Lankan citizens those who received any professional qualification or attended short or long term training programmes in Pakistan are eligible to join the Society.