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PAEC federal chapter holds oath-taking ceremony, reaffirms commitment to Pakistan–Africa cooperation

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):The Pakistan Africa Economic Council (PAEC), Federal Chapter, held its oath-taking ceremony of the office bearers at the COMSTECH Secretariat, Islamabad, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening economic, trade, and educational linkages between Pakistan and African countries.
The ceremony was attended by diplomats, vice chancellors of leading universities, eminent professionals, and foreign guests, particularly from the African region, highlighting the growing importance of Pakistan–Africa cooperation, said a press release received here on Wednesday.
Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Commerce, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he congratulated the newly elected office bearers and stated that the oath-taking ceremony symbolized a renewed commitment to integrity, cooperation, and economic diplomacy.
He highlighted the PAEC’s role as a vital bridge between Pakistan and African economies, aligned with the Government of Pakistan’s vision of export-led growth, market diversification, and South–South cooperation. He also underscored Africa’s strong trade potential and emphasized the importance of expanding collaboration in trade, investment, and education.
Earlier, the ceremony commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the National Anthem. Welcome remarks were delivered by Dr. Abdul Basit, Senior Vice President PAEC Islamabad Region. Addresses were also delivered by Dr. Shahbaz Ali Malik, Founder Chairman PAEC, and Shaikh Rashid Alam, Secretary General PAEC, who outlined PAEC’s vision and future roadmap for strengthening Pakistan–Africa relations.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of several initiatives aimed at deepening Pakistan–Africa engagement. The PAEC leadership announced 100 scholarships and 100 internships for African nationals in Pakistan to promote education, skills development, and people-to-people linkages.
Additional measures announced included facilitation of visa access, payment facilitation for businesses, and practical support for trade and investment cooperation. Furthermore, a 30 % discount at the Rawal Institute of Health Sciences and the Ujala Centre of Excellence was announced for African citizens. The oath of office of the newly elected PAEC Federal Chapter office bearers was administered by the Chief Guest, followed by souvenir distribution.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Abdul Wajid, President PAEC Federal Chapter, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, diplomats, and participants. The proceedings were conducted by Muhammad Murtaza Noor, Secretary General PAEC Islamabad Chapter, who formally closed the ceremony, reaffirmed PAEC’s resolve to further strengthen Pakistan–Africa relations through sustained cooperation and partnership.

Speaker condemns incident of forcibly removing hijab of female doctor by CM of Indian’s Bihar Nitish Kumar

By
Kamran Muraad
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QUETTA, Dec 17 (APP): Speaker Balochistan Assembly Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai on Wednesday strongly condemned the shameful and despicable incident of forcibly removing the hijab (Face veil) of a female doctor by the Chief Minister of the Indian state of Bihar, Nitish Kumar.
He said that interference with the dress, hijab and personal dignity of a woman is not only a blatant violation of human rights but also an open attack on religious freedom and self-respect of women.
The Speaker termed this act as misuse of power, humiliation of Muslims and insult to women and said that such actions are not acceptable in any civilized society.
He clarified that the state office does not give anyone the authority to insult the dignity of women or mock their religious identity.
The Speaker Balochistan Assembly said that forcibly removing a woman’s hijab is a clear violation of international laws, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international conventions on religious freedom.
The Speaker said that after the downing of Rafale aircraft by Pakistan, now targeting Muslims, especially Muslim women, in India reflects a vengeful mentality.
He said that such an immoral act by an elderly Indian Chief Minister over 70 years of age is exposing India before the world.
The Speaker Balochistan Assembly demanded that an unconditional apology be offered for the incident, immediate action would be taken against those responsible and strict measures to be taken to prevent such behaviors in future.
He further said that the Balochistan Assembly would continue to raise its voice at every forum to protect the dignity, religious freedom and human respect of women.
This incident has exposed India to the world as a champion of democracy, because when the head of state himself undermines the religious identity of minorities, especially Muslim women, it becomes a clear evidence of state patronage bias and discrimination, he maintained.

UoS hosts digital summit on media literacy in the age of artificial intelligence:

By
Kamran Muraad
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SARGODHA, Dec 17 (APP):On the third day of Research Arena 2025, the Department of Communication and Media Studies, University of Sargodha, organized a digital summit titled “Media Literacy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Prospects,” featuring participation from national and international media scholars.
The summit started with a video message from Vice Chancellor University of Sargodha Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, who highlighted the significance of Research Arena 2025, the promotion of research activities, and the strengthening of international academic linkages. The opening session was moderated by Dr. Saima Kausar.
The first session featured keynote speakers Prof. Dr. Abida Ashraf and Prof. Dr. Saira Mujeeb Shami from the University of the Punjab, Dr. Anna Agustina from Universitas Pancasila, Indonesia, and Dr. Hassan Raza Syed from Taylor’s University, Malaysia. Chairman Department of Communication and Media Studies Dr. Mudassar Hussain Shah delivered the closing remarks of the session.
The second session was moderated by Dr. Abdul Rehman Qaisar, with guest speakers including Dr. Faiza Latif, Dr. Ayesha Siddiqah, Dr. Muhammad Junaid Ghauri, Dr. Adil Ahmed Aamir, Dr. Haseeb Sarwar, and Dr. Ayesha Mirza. Speakers discussed digital media, public awareness, and the social impact of artificial intelligence.
The third session, moderated by Dr. Faisal Aziz, included Dr. Salma Amber, Dr. Wajid Zulqarnain, Dr. Rabia Noor, and Dr. Asim Manzoor, who spoke on media education, digital ethics, and contemporary communication challenges.
The concluding panel discussion on Broadcasting and Film Studies was moderated by Dr. Abdul Rehman Madni, with Dr. Atif Ashraf and Dr. Sobia Abid highlighting emerging trends and academic opportunities in broadcasting, film, and digital media.
The digital summit served as an effective platform for academic dialogue, international collaboration, and the promotion of media literacy.

Over 871,000 children administered polio drops in Lahore

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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LAHORE, Dec 17 (APP):More than 871,000 children were administered polio drops in Lahore during the first two days of the ongoing anti-polio campaign, as World Health Organization (WHO) observers expressed satisfaction with the performance of field teams and district administration.
An important review meeting of the anti-polio campaign was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Lahore Syed Musa Raza on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), Chief Executive Officer of Health, all Assistant Commissioners and representatives of the WHO, where progress and targets of the campaign were reviewed in detail.
Briefing the meeting, the CEO Health informed that a total of 871,976 children had been vaccinated against polio in the city during the first two days of the campaign. WHO representatives appreciated the efforts of the district administration, field staff and supervisors, and expressed complete satisfaction with the ongoing operations.
Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza directed officials to strictly minimize “Not Available” cases by ensuring the vaccination of all eligible children through effective engagement with parents. He emphasized 100 percent polio vaccination coverage for children under five in all public and private schools and ordered special teams to remain deployed at city entry and exit points and major transit locations.
He said the successful implementation of the Chief Minister Punjab’s ‘Zero Polio Vision’ was the district administration’s top priority and warned that no negligence would be tolerated. He also instructed Assistant Commissioners to conduct field visits, monitor teams, and ensure transparent reporting.
The Deputy Commissioner appealed to citizens to cooperate fully with vaccination teams to protect children from lifelong disability.

NAB Multan officials acknowledged over best performance 2025

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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MULTAN, Dec 17 (APP):National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Multan on Wednesday organized a special ceremony to recognize and encourage officials who demonstrated outstanding performance during the year 2025.
The ceremony was presided over by Director General NAB Multan, Asim Lodhi, who lauded the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the officials in achieving institutional objectives. Addressing the gathering, the DG emphasized that acknowledging merit and hard work was essential for promoting efficiency, integrity, and motivation within the organization.
During the event, appreciation certificates along with cash awards were distributed among the officials who showed exemplary performance in their respective duties.
They included Stenotypist Muhammad Younis, Assistant Private Secretary Rashid Ali, UDC Muhammad Tahir, Assistant Muhammad Jameel Khan, Assistant Hafiz Usama Ali, Driver Rehan Akbar, LDC Asif Rasheed, UDC Ahmad Hassan, Data Entry Operator Muhammad Kamran, LDC Junaid Bashir, and Assistant Supporting Personnel Muhammad Sharif.
The DG NAB Multan expressed confidence that such initiatives would further strengthen the culture of accountability, discipline, and excellence within NAB. He encouraged all officers and staff to continue performing their duties with honesty and dedication in line with the bureau’s mandate.

Strong local governments, inclusive participation vital for sustainable democracy, peace: PA Speaker

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Dec 17 (APP):Speaker of the Punjab Assembly (PA) Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has said that strong local governments, inclusive public participation and supremacy of the Constitution were essential for achieving sustainable democracy, social peace and national stability.
He stressed that violent extremism posed a serious threat to human values and societal harmony.
Addressing a Strategic Planning Workshop organized by the Punjab Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism (CoE-CVE), here on Wednesday, the Speaker said that countering extremism required a collective, coordinated and sustained effort by state institutions, civil society and all segments of society. He emphasized that lasting peace could only be ensured through evidence-based, comprehensive and long-term strategies rather than reactionary measures.
He observed that when the state failed to effectively discharge its constitutional and administrative responsibilities, extremist elements exploited the resulting vacuum. He underscored the importance of incorporating subjects related to countering extremism, tolerance, pluralism and constitutional awareness into educational curricula to ensure the positive intellectual and moral development of children and youth.
The Speaker said that meaningful engagement of madaris, youth, religious scholars, media and other social stakeholders was indispensable for eradicating extremism. He added that strengthening social cohesion, promoting a national narrative and ensuring institutional cooperation required effective coordination among all stakeholders.
He expressed his resolve to the effective implementation of the five-year strategy devised to counter violent extremism in Punjab in collaboration with all relevant institutions.
The event was attended by Home Secretary Punjab Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, Deputy Coordination Officer Punjab CoE-CVE Dr. Ahmad Khawar Shehzad, National Coordinator NACTA Javed Ahmed Dogar and former senator Barrister Dr. Muhammad Ali Saif.
Later, while addressing a public event on grassroots democracy at a private university, the Speaker said that democracy was not merely an ideology but a practical process rooted in public participation. He emphasized that local governments, being the closest tier of governance to the people, played a pivotal role in addressing day-to-day public issues.
He stressed that financial autonomy, transparency and timely release of funds to local governments were essential for effective service delivery. Speaking on constitutional matters, he said Parliament must remain strong and sovereign, adding that courts were meant to interpret the Constitution while parliamentary supremacy should be upheld.
He also highlighted the importance of protecting Article 140-A of the Constitution, terming the passage of a resolution in this regard a significant development. He credited Chairman Public Accounts Committee Ahmad Iqbal for the initiative.
The Speaker said that initiatives such as the “Suthra Punjab” campaign and road rehabilitation projects reflected the effectiveness of local government systems. He concluded that inclusion of youth, women and minorities strengthened local democracy, while education and awareness were key to promoting democratic values at the grassroots level.

Rangers, SIU arrest seven extortion suspects in joint operation

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
KARACHI, Dec 17 (APP):Pakistan Rangers Sindh and the Special Investigation Unit have arrested seven suspected extortionists belonging to the Jameel Chhanga and Samad Kathiawari groups during a joint intelligence-based operation in District Central and City areas.
According to Rangers spokesperson on Wednesday, the suspects Parvez alias Pawa, Asghar Ali, Shakeel Ahmed alias Comrade, Faizan alias Lamboo, Muhammad Zubair alias Chhoto were arrested in injured condition while Muhammad Sabir and Muhammad Umar alias Afshani Baloch were also taken into custody. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from their possession.
Authorities said the suspects were operating on the instructions of extortion ring leaders Jameel Chhanga, Usama Jameel and Abdul Samad Kathiawari. The group allegedly targeted factory owners, shopkeepers, under-construction building projects and restaurants, issuing extortion slips and opening fire on those who refused to pay, creating fear in the area.
During interrogation, the suspects confessed to firing at a fast-food outlet in Nazimabad in October 2025 over refusal to pay extortion money. CCTV footage of the incident clearly shows the suspects involved.
The extorted money was illegally transferred to the ring leaders Jameel Chhanga, Samad Kathiawari and Usama Jameel who are currently residing abroad.
The suspects are described as habitual offenders and are wanted in multiple cases of extortion and attempted murder registered at various police stations across Karachi. Further investigation is underway.

Kuwait signals strong investment interest in Pakistan: Ali Pervaiz

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):Federal Minister for Petroleum, Mr. Ali Pervaiz Malik, held a meeting with the Minister of Finance and Renewable Energy of Kuwait and Chairman of the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, to discuss ways to further strengthen the close and historic bilateral relations between Pakistan and Kuwait.
Kuwait signals strong investment interest in Pakistan: Ali Pervaiz
During the meeting, both ministers emphasized the deep-rooted historical ties between the two brotherly countries and underscored their shared commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, said a press release issued here Wednesday.
They exchanged views on mechanisms to enhance joint collaboration in the coming phase, particularly in the areas of energy, investment, and trade, in a manner that serves the mutual interests of both nations, it said.
Kuwait signals strong investment interest in Pakistan: Ali Pervaiz
Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem noted that Kuwait maintains a notable investment portfolio in Pakistan and expressed Kuwait’s keen interest in further expanding its investments.
He affirmed that the Kuwait Investment Authority is willing to explore new investment opportunities in Pakistan and to work closely with relevant stakeholders to increase the scope of bilateral investments, the press release said.
Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik welcomed Kuwait’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s economy and highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for foreign investment, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Ali Pervaiz Malik also held a separate meeting with the Chairman of Meezan Bank Pakistan, Mr. Riyadh Al Edrissi. The Minister appreciated the strong performance of Meezan Bank and remarked that such successful foreign investment initiatives set a positive example for others to follow, reinforcing investor confidence in Pakistan’s financial sector.
In another meeting, the Federal Minister met with the Director General of the Kuwait Fund for Economic Development, Mr. Waleed Shamlan Ahmad. The discussions focused on enhancing development funding and strengthening cooperation on projects aimed at supporting Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Additionally, Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting at the Kuwait Investment Authority with the Deputy Managing Director, where discussions centered on further exploring investment opportunities and strengthening institutional cooperation between Pakistan and KIA.
 Ali Pervaiz Malik also interacted with leaders of the Pakistan business community in Kuwait. He emphasized that Overseas Pakistanis are a valuable asset for the country and appreciated their contributions to Pakistan’s economy, investment climate, and bilateral relations.
These engagements reflect the shared resolve of Pakistan and Kuwait to deepen their strategic partnership and further expand collaboration for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Police set up intelligence wing to prevent drugs in schools: IHC told

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):The Islamabad High Court (IHC) was informed on Wednesday that a special intelligence wing of the Special Branch has been formed to prevent drugs in educational institutions.
The Islamabad Police submitted a report to the IHC in which it was stated that a special unit of the Federal Police has also been established.
The report stated that plainclothes Intelligence Wing personnel would monitor educational institutions and their surroundings. The wing will collect intelligence on drug-related activities.
According to the report, the personnel will maintain contact with schools, colleges and universities for immediate action. The Special Investigation Unit is investigating drug cases, collecting evidence and monitoring them.
IHC’s Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas heard a case related to the eradication of drugs in educational institutions, in which Islamabad Police, Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA) submitted their reports regarding the implementation of the court orders.
During the hearing, Director Legal of the IG Office Tahir Kazim informed the court that two important meetings of stakeholders were held under the chairmanship of the IG Islamabad on the court order, in which a joint strategy for the eradication of drugs in educational institutions was considered.
Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas remarked that the government should form a joint task force itself to eradicate drugs.
He said that the aim of the court was that all the relevant institutions should sit together and work practically in this campaign, just calling meetings is not enough, but their implementation should also be seen.
ANF Prosecutor Rana Zulfiqar told the court that a focal person has been appointed in each private educational institution to eradicate drugs and regular meetings will be held every month in this regard.
The PEIRA officials informed that an awareness campaign against drugs is being conducted in educational institutions and a special awareness session was held on December 9, by calling a team consisting of representatives of 100 schools.
They told the court that a committee consisting of a focal person has been formed in each school. On this occasion, the court also mentioned the advertising of the awareness campaign on drug eradication by PEMRA on channels, however, it remarked that he had not seen any such report being broadcast yet.
The court summoned the concerned officer of PEMRA for the next hearing regarding the implementation of the drug eradication campaign. During the hearing, Director Legal IG Office Tahir Kazim, ANF Prosecutor Rana Zulfiqar and DSP Legal Sajid Cheema appeared in the court.
The court adjourned the hearing of the case till January 27, with further instructions.

Misbah Khar stresses need for further augmenting Pak-Uzbekistan cooperation in diplomacy, trade, culture

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):Advisor to the Chairman Senate and Ambassador to ISC, Misbah Khar, attended the book launching ceremony ” New Uzbekistan:  the Path of Shavkat Mirziyoyev”, where she highlighted the growing importance of strong and multifaceted bilateral ties between the two brotherly countries.
During the ceremony, Misbah Khar underscored the need for further augmenting cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan in the fields of diplomacy, trade, culture, education, and parliamentary engagement, said a press release issued here on Wednesday.
She termed the launch of “New Uzbekistan: The Path of Shavkat Mirziyoyev” a meaningful occasion that strengthens understanding between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
The book was praised for capturing Uzbekistan’s transformation under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership and for providing insight into the country’s reform-driven, people-centered vision.
Misbah Khar emphasized that greater understanding of this transformation would deepen cooperation in trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.
In her remarks, she stressed that the book would serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, businesses, and students, reinforcing Pakistan–Uzbekistan relations and supporting the shared geo-economic vision of both countries.
She emphasized that enhanced collaboration and sustained dialogue would help unlock the full potential of bilateral relations and contribute to regional connectivity and stability.
Representing the Senate Secretariat at the event, the Advisor warmly welcomed the participants and distinguished guests from Uzbekistan. She stressed the significance of strengthening institutional linkages and promoting people-to-people contacts to further deepen mutual understanding and cooperation.
Misbah Khar called for continued efforts to boost bilateral cooperation through academic exchanges, policy-oriented research, and closer parliamentary interaction, noting that such initiatives would further solidify the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
The book launching ceremony was attended by diplomats, scholars, researchers, and representatives of relevant institutions, who appreciated the initiative for fostering greater awareness and understanding of Pakistan–Uzbekistan relations.
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