76th anniversary of Independence Day celebrated In New Delhi
NEW DELHI, Aug 14 (APP):High Commission for Pakistan here celebrated 76th anniversary of Independence of Pakistan with national zeal and patriotic spirit on Monday.
Aizaz Khan, Chargé d’ Affaires, hoisted the national flag on the occasion. Officers and staff of the High Commission along with their families were present. Messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the audience.
The Charge d’ Affaires in his remarks paid rich tribute to the Father of the Nation, Quaid- e- Azam, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and other leaders of freedom struggle, who carved out a separate homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent, where they could live in accordance with their own values and traditions. He stated that supreme sacrifices rendered by our founding fathers could not be forgotten. He added that we could achieve new heights of greatness and prosperity for our country, if we remain united as a nation and focus our efforts towards economic progress and social justice.
Recounting the great sacrifices of armed forces of Pakistan in the defence of the motherland, the Cd’A paid homage to the brave sons of soil and martyrs. Aizaz Khan said that Pakistan is a proponent of peace in the world and the region, and seeks peaceful relations with all neighbouring countries including India. However, for sustainable peace in South Asia, it is imperative to resolve the core issue of Kashmir as per relevant resolutions of the United Nations and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, the Cd’A emphasised.
Dressed in green and white, the children of Pakistan High Commission’s officials, gave a beautiful performance on the national songs and delivered speeches, highlighting the historic struggle for the creation of Pakistan.
At the end of the ceremony, prizes and gifts were distributed among the children. A special cake was also cut on the occasion.
CM Murad performs soft launch of Karachi safe city
KARACHI, Aug 14 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has said that the Karachi Safe City Project is not just a collection of surveillance cameras and technological advancements; but it also embodies our collective aspiration for a safer and more secure environment.
This he said while speaking at the contract signing ceremony of Integrated C5ISR Based (Command, Control, Communication, Computer, Cyber Security, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance) Safe City Project here at the CM House on Monday.
The program was attended by former IT Minister Taimur Talpur, Chief Secretary Sohail Rajput, IG Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, MD NRTC Brig Asim Ishaq Chairman P&D, Secretary LG Najam Shah, Home Secretary Aijaz Shah, DG Safe City Authority Asif Aijaz Shaikh, and others.
Mr. Shah said that the Karachi Safe City Project was not merely the installation of surveillance cameras and adopting technological advancements, but it also embodied our collective aspiration for a safer and more secure urban environment.
“With the challenges that a rapidly growing city like Karachi faces, it is our duty to ensure that every citizen must feel safe and secure and this project brings us one step closer to achieving that goal,” he said.
The CM said that he was aware of the urgency attached to this project. “The safety and well-being of our citizens cannot wait, and we must remain steadfast in our pursuit of its successful implementation,” he said.
“I am honored to launch the much-awaited launch of the safe city project before leaving the charge of this office,” he said and added that it was a testament to the foresight and dedication of the Sindh government.
Mr. Shah said that the Sindh Safe Cities Authority board and its director general and NRTC have worked hard to make the project a reality.
Murad Ali Shah said that his government has always placed the needs and aspirations of our citizens at the forefront of its agenda. “We understand the challenges faced by our cities in this rapidly evolving world, and we are not merely content with acknowledging these challenges, but we strive to confront them head-on, with determination and innovation.
The CM said that the Safe City Project would enhance law enforcement capabilities, improve emergency response times, and deter criminal activities. He said that the integrated approach aligned with our commitment to creating a city that was not only prosperous but also safe for all its residents.
Mr. Shah said that the Safe City Project was truly a one-of-a-kind initiative, distinguished not only by its scale but also by the intricate technical complexities it encompasses. “As we stand on the cusp of its launch, we can take pride in our collective efforts to overcome these hurdles and bring this visionary project to fruition.,” he said.
The CM extended his gratitude to all the stakeholders involved in this endeavor, including government officials and law enforcement agencies, technical experts, and project teams. “Your dedication and hard work are integral to the success of the Safe City Karachi Project,” he said.
The citizens of Karachi are eagerly looking forward to the enhanced safety and security that this project promises, the CM said, and added their trust was a responsibility we must uphold.
Therefore, I kindly request DG Sindh Safe Cities Authority and MD NRTC to keep a keen focus on meeting the project’s timeliness while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
CM launches C-Art Korangi to provide psychological assessment, behavior therapy
KARACHI, Aug 14 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah inaugurated a newly established unit of the Center of Autism & Rehabilitation Training (C-ART) established by the Sindh Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities at the Government Special Education & Rehabilitation Centre, Orangi.
The foundation stone of this building was laid by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto back on 27 December 1994 and it was inaugurated on July 16, 1999. The total covered area of the building spans over 1.90 acres of land (22064 sq. A.).
Murad Shah said that keeping in view the need of the day, along with the services being provided currently by the Special Education & Rehabilitation Centre, Orangi Town, it was proposed to commence Rehabilitation Services for Autistic and Autism Spectrum Disordered disabled children. Services to be rendered through C-ARTS include Rehabilitation Program, Pilot Inclusion Program.
The services it would provide, include Clinics, Psychological Assessment, Behavior Therapy, Socio-Economic Communication Program, Life-Skills Program, Sensory Integration, Physiotherapy, and Skills Training (Sports, Vocational Training, Computer Training, Arts & Music Training).
A total of 150 autistic children will be enrolled in this new unit that boasts 14 rooms each on the Ground and First Floor with separate administrative offices. The center is equipped with a huge verandah, sports playground, and all essential utilities including a dedicated PMT, standby generator, and other facilities.
The Chief Minister was impressed by the dedicated efforts of the staff in bringing the expansion dream to reality.
The event concluded with the award of shields and certificates to all Guests of Honors presented by the Chief Guest- Chief Minister, Syed Murad Ali Shah.
Independence Day celebrated in Tokyo
Tokyo, Aug 14 (APP):The embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo commemorated the 76th Independence Day of Pakistan on Monday here with a fervent celebration that echoed the spirit of freedom and unity. The event took place at the embassy premises, where ambassador Raza Bashir Tarar unfurled the Pakistani flag at 9:00 am amidst a gathering of enthusiastic Pakistani nationals residing in Japan.
Ambassador Tarar read out the messages from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan, which highlighted the nation’s accomplishments and aspirations for the future.
Adding a musical touch to the occasion, a soul-stirring Qawali performance captivated the audience and resonated with the essence of Pakistan’s cultural heritage. The Qawali not only entertained but also brought to life the rich artistic traditions that define the nation’s identity.
Ambassador Raza Bashir Tarar expressed his heartiest gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support and shared enthusiasm in commemorating this significant day.
Independence Day celebrated in Ankara
ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): The 76th Independence Day anniversary of Pakistan was celebrated with traditional zeal and enthusiasm, bringing together the vibrant diaspora at Pakistan embassy residence in Ankara on Monday.
Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye Dr Yousaf Junaid hoisted the national flag to the tune of national anthem in the presence of the dignitaries from all spheres of life. The event was well attended by Pakistani community residing in Ankara.
Messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion. Pakistani leadership in their messages paid tribute to the sacrifices of ancestors and vowed to transform Pakistan in accordance with the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Pakistani leadership also expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir and reassured Pakistan’s political, moral and diplomatic support for their legitimate right to self-determination.
Felicitating the nation particularly Pakistani community in Turkiye on Independence Day, Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid stated that August 14 is a day to honour great sacrifices made by our forefathers, reaffirm our resolve to work wholeheartedly for inclusive and sustainable development of the country, in line with the vision of father of the nation Quaid-e-Azam. Being a thriving nation of over 240 million people, Pakistanis have shown their brilliance in every walk of life from winning nobel prizes, to triumphing summits, to developing indigenous technologies, to state-of-the-art defence production, to running world’s largest ambulance service, to producing high quality export goods – Pakistanis have excelled in every field, he added.
While appreciating the contribution made by Pakistani diaspora in Turkiye’s development , ambassador Junaid stated that brotherly Turkiye’s progress is Pakistan’s progress and vice versa.
Reiterating Pakistan’s political, diplomatic and moral support for the legitimate right to self-determination of Kashmiris , ambassador Junaid urged the international community to take note of ongoing gross human rights violations in IIOJK and play its due role in resolution of Kashmir Dispute.
The Ambassador thanked the Turkish nation and leadership for sending congratulatory messages and sharing the joy of Pakistan’s Independence Day by lighting the Bridges over Bosphorus in the colours of Pakistani flag.
SBP Governor lauds Quaid’s role in establishment of State Bank
KARACHI, Aug 14 (APP): The Governor of State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Jameel Ahmad while addressing the flag hoisting ceremony to mark the 76th Independence Day at State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), paid rich tributes to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and his companions, who despite adversities, led the freedom struggle and won an independent state for Muslims of the subcontinent.
He recalled the hostile circumstances the nascent state of Pakistan endured during its initial days and how it made to rely on others in order to perform financial and banking activities. These unfavorable circumstances eventually culminated in the establishment of State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) for economic independence of the country.
The ceremony, attended by the senior management of the Bank and a large number of SBP officials along with their families, commenced with the hoisting of National Flag by the Governor SBP amid playing of the national anthem by a band of Pakistan Navy.
A smartly turned-out contingent of the Internal Bank Security Department (IBSD) presented the Governor the Guard of Honor. A choir consisting of students from the Garage School of Karachi presented heartwarming national songs, which were highly appreciated by the audience. The SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad also planted a tree to commemorate the Independence Day of the country.
He recounted the extraordinary achievements of the central bank during the last 76 years; chief among them was gaining the confidence of Pakistanis.
Following the best international practices, the Monetary Policy Committee of the SBP is now an independent forum that decides about the monetary policy, keeping in view medium term inflation targeting and the country’s economic conditions.
SBP also keeps abreast Parliament of its targets and activities through annual and bi-annual reports since it is accountable to the people’s parliament and public.
Besides, it also issues Financial Stability Review (FSR) that highlights the main risks facing the financial system and assesses the resilience of the financial system to those risks.
Ahmad highlighted that the world economy remained under pressure in near past that also resulted in an increase in inflation in Pakistan. These conditions were further aggravated due to floods and delay in IMF program review.
The Governor SBP Jameel Ahmad said that the nine-month Stand-by Arrangement (SBA) agreed with the IMF has improved foreign reserves of the country and largely resolved near term issues pertaining to the external sector of the economy.
He observed that the SBP was making significant strides towards Digital Banking, Green Banking and Islamic Banking.
He specifically mentioned issuing a Licensing and Regulatory Framework for Digital Banks in line with international best practices, growth of fintechs and practical efforts for transformation of the banking system into Shariah-compliant banking. Ahmad also termed development of next Strategic Plan, improvement in liquidity management and Shariah Governance framework under the third five-year Strategic Plan of Islamic banking industry.
On this occasion, a special exhibition of Pakistani Postage Stamps titled ‘Pioneers of Freedom’- a series by the renowned artist Saeed Akhtar was arranged in the SBP Museum. The exhibition portrayed the pioneers of freedom struggle, who rose against the foreign rule and bravely led the freedom movement.
Ahmad also inaugurated display of a small scale cultural dioramas (working 3D Models with sound and movement) prepared by a respected artist Abdul Kareem Solangi (Pride of Performance), representing different cultural aspects of Pakistan. Governor SBP and other dignitaries took keen interest in the photographs and extolled the work of artists.
Abiding commitment to Quaid’s vision best path forward for Pakistan: DG ISSI
ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Director General Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), Ambassador (R) Sohail Mahmood on Monday said abiding commitment to the vision of founding founder Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah is the best path forward for Pakistan on its way to sustainable peace, progress and prosperity.
This was stressed by Ambassador (R) Sohail Mahmood, Director General Institute of Strategic Studies (ISSI), at the Institute’s web celebration of Independence Day 2023, a news release said.
Hosted by ISSI’s Arms Control & Disarmament Centre (ACDC), the web celebration was moderated by Director ACDC Malik Qasim Mustafa and attended by the research faculty and staff of ISSI.
A presentation on the theme “Peace Within and Peace Without,” was given by ACDC Research Associate Aamna Rafiq. She stated that despite complex and difficult geopolitical, geoeconomic, and geostrategic dynamics in the regional and global landscape, Pakistan has faithfully adhered to the Quaid’s vision of peaceful coexistence with all states.
Also, any challenge could be tackled with tolerance, patience, mutual respect, and discipline. “We must continue to celebrate the diversity of cultures, languages, and ethnicity to achieve unity, prosperity, and peace within,” she said.
In his remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood said that independence anniversaries are always special occasions — as they entail both celebration as well as reflection.
But, first and foremost, they are the occasions for remembrance and expression of gratitude. It is important to remember all the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice so that the succeeding generations could live as a free, independent and sovereign nation.
This is equally an occasion for expressing gratitude to the founding fathers for their vision and far-sightedness. Keeping in view the plight of Indian Muslims in the wake of a majoritarian ideology one can’t thank the Quaid enough for his single-minded focus and unrelenting struggle for a separate homeland.
Over the past 76 years, the DG ISSI added, Pakistan has achieved so much that it should be proud of. A country, being written off due to complex social, political, and economic problems at the outset and lacking basic infrastructure and vital resources, has not only survived well but also has become a formidable member of the comity of nations with nuclear capability — only through sheer grit, tenacity and resilience.
These are the attributes of living nations. Pakistan has time and again proven that it is a living nation. Over the past 76 years, there have been challenges, disappointments and setbacks as well. But the country has always fought hard and come back. There is no doubt that Pakistan will continue its journey of progress with the same zeal and realize its fullest potential as a nation.
Amb Sohail Mahmood stressed that the key in this regard is an abiding commitment to the Quaid’s vision of Pakistan as an economically strong, socially progressive, democratic, Islamic welfare state. “Peace Within, Peace Without” was a cardinal principle of Quaid’s vision for Pakistan as a polity and nation-state.
Faithful implementation of this vision would enable Pakistan to attain sustainable peace, progress and prosperity, he emphasised.
The research faculty from the centers of excellence and staff officers, while expressing their views, noted the challenges being currently faced and underlined the imperatives of unity, faith, discipline, continued hard work, patience, tolerance, perseverance and resilience.
They shed light on the need for a positive attitude, a forward-looking approach, sacrifice, and valuing the freedom achieved several decades ago and working hard for the fulfillment of the vision of Pakistan.
In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood Chairman BoG, ISSI stated that Independence Day is not only a day of celebration but also a day of introspection.
The people of Pakistan should always remember and respect the struggles and sacrifices made by their forefathers.
Furthermore, think tanks like ISSI are playing a positive part in building the narrative of Pakistan and this important role should continue.
PM Kakar presented guard of honour
ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP):Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar was presented guard of honour in a ceremony at the Prime Minister House here on Monday.
A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan’s armed forces presented the guard of honour. National anthem was also played on the occasion.
Outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received the new prime minister on his arrival.
The caretaker prime minister met the officers and staff of the Prime Minister House.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif felicitated Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on becoming caretaker PM and expressed his best wishes for him.
Earlier, outgoing prime minister was also given guard of honour. He reviewed the guard of honour as the contingents of the armed forces presented a salute to him. Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar bid farewell to the departing prime minister.