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Ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Iqbal to mark Minority Day

By
Ali Ali
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LAHORE, Aug 11 (APP):A grand ceremony to mark National Minority Day, organised by the Human Rights and Minorities Affairs (HR&MA) Department, was held at Aiwan-e-Iqbal, here on Monday.
Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora attended as the chief guest. The event was also graced by Parliamentary Secretary Sonia Asher, Secretary for HR&MA Fareed Ahmed Tarar, minority MPAs Baba Fabulous, Tariq Masih Gill, Shakeela Arthur, and Waseem Sandhu, along with leaders of various faiths, civil society members, diplomats, sports personalities, and a large public gathering.
The ceremony opened with the national anthem and recitations from holy scriptures.
In his welcome address, Secretary Fareed Ahmed Tarar commended the HR&MA Department for organising such a vibrant and inclusive event.
Talking on the occasion, Minister Ramesh Singh Arora said Pakistan is a peace-loving nation but should never be perceived as weak. “We have conveyed to India that disputes can only be resolved through dialogue,” he said, paying tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan for giving India a befitting response. “Anyone casting an evil eye on Pakistan will be made an example.”
Highlighting interfaith unity, he remarked, “Today’s gathering is heartening, people of all religions standing together under one flag. This reflects Pakistan’s true spirit of ‘Unity in Diversity.’”
The minister said the Punjab government is committed to safeguarding minority communities. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, he said, historic initiatives have been introduced, including the issuance of minority cards to 50,000 families, soon to be expanded to 75,000, and scholarships from matriculation to PhD level for minority students. “Since May 10, the Pakistani nation has been more united than ever, ready to face every challenge together,” he added.
Minority MPAs also addressed the audience. Baba Fabulous said Minority Day reaffirms the resolve of minority communities to stand shoulder to shoulder in Pakistan’s progress.
Tariq Masih Gill praised government initiatives, likening the green and white of the national flag to the unity of the nation. Shakeela Arthur noted that the event was proof of peaceful coexistence and equal rights for all religions in Pakistan, while Sonia Asher highlighted that scholarships and minority cards had brought renewed hope to minority communities.
The hall resonated with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Pak Army Zindabad.” A special documentary prepared by the HR&MA Department was screened, and Minister Arora distributed scholarship cheques to 1,100 students from matriculation to PhD level.
Notable attendees included Additional Secretary Rizwana Naveed, Deputy Secretary Ayesha Yaseen, Olympian Sohail Sisters, and Reverend Dr. Majeed Abel.

Bakht Kakar urges citizens to honor freedom with unity, dignity patriotism

By
Ali Ali
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QUETTA, Aug 11 (APP):Provincial Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar urged citizens to honor the nation’s freedom with unity, dignity, and unwavering patriotism.
 Speaking as chief guest at the 2025 Independence Day Sports Festival in Nawan Killi, Quetta, he underscored the sacred value of independence, declaring Pakistan a divine gift and a profound blessing from the Almighty.
“The nations that cherish their independence are the ones that thrive,” Minister Kakar said. “Pakistan is not just a country it is a divine favor that must be protected and celebrated.”
The festival featured a spirited final match and vibrant cultural performances by children, which the minister enthusiastically attended.
Applauding the organizing committee for their efforts, he emphasized the importance of regular sports events in fostering national cohesion and providing healthy recreation.
 “Sports are essential not only for physical fitness but also for mental well-being and social harmony,” he noted.
Minister Kakar called on the youth to recognize the value of independence and play an active role in safeguarding Pakistan’s future. He stressed that every citizen must be prepared to defend the motherland with dedication and sacrifice.
The event concluded with prize and cash distributions to winning teams and performers, followed by a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony. White doves were released into the sky, representing peace, prosperity, and hope for the nation.

KP govt to arrange independence day concert, fire work

By
Ali Ali
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PESHAWAR, Aug 11 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government would arrange a grand “Jashn-e-Azadi Pakistan” celebration at Kernel Sher Khan Army Stadium, Peshawar, on the night of August 13, featuring performances by renowned Pakistani singers, traditional food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display at 12 a.m.
The event will be open to the public and families free of charge through a registration process. Registration will be conducted via CNIC verification at 15 designated locations across Peshawar, this was decided in a high level meeting here on Monday.
The meeting finalised arrangements and security measures for the concert with Commissioner Peshawar Division, Riaz Khan Mehsud, and Commander 102 Brigade, Ali Asghar Khan in the chair.
It was attended by deputy commissioners of all five districts of Peshawar Division, Peshawar, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mohmand, and Khyber along with Peshawar Mayor Haji Zubair Ali, Director General Peshawar Development Authority Shah Fahad, local government officials, and representatives of traders’ associations.
Participants were briefed on the event’s schedule, security protocols, and facilitation measures for attendees, while deputy commissioners from each district shared plans for marking Independence Day in their respective areas.
Commissioner Riaz Khan Mehsud said that this year’s Independence Day celebrations would be observed with national unity and solidarity, adding that the concert would be a key highlight.
He urged maximum public participation through proper registration to ensure a safe and well-managed event.
It was informed that the registration points for the concert include Hayatabad Sports Complex, University of Peshawar, FG Public School (Girls) Stadium Road Peshawar, Khyber Medical College Peshawar, City University Peshawar, Askari 6 Nasir Bagh Road, CFC, GRP, Qissa Khwani Bazaar, and Hashtnagri Bazaar Peshawar.

Nahyan bin Mubarak joins members of Pakistani community to celebrate Independence Day

By
NNPS Desk
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DUBAI, Aug 11 (WAM/APP): Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, alongside Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the UAE, and a number of officials, diplomats, economic representatives, and social figures from the Pakistani community, attended a gathering marking the 78th anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence Day at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City Dubai.

The event attracted more than 60,000 attendees and was organised by “Emirates Loves Pakistan” Page, a platform dedicated to sharing inspiring content that highlights the success stories and contributions of the Pakistani community in the UAE— in cooperation with the Pakistan Association Dubai and with support from Dubai Police. The occasion provided an opportunity to strengthen social relations within the Pakistani community and reflected the established diplomatic ties between the peoples of the UAE and Pakistan.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan remarked: “It is an honour to join you in commemorating Pakistan’s Independence Day. I extend my warmest congratulations to you all and to the people of Pakistan on this momentous occasion. I share your pride in celebrating what this day signifies for Pakistanis worldwide, a testament to a robust national identity, resilience, determination, achievement, and optimism for the future. Here in Dubai, we also celebrate the deep bonds of friendship and brotherhood uniting Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.”

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak continued: “Our steadfast relationship is founded on shared values, cultural heritage, mutual respect, and a collective vision for peace and prosperity. The UAE stands with Pakistan as a friend and partner. These ties are strengthened daily through the invaluable contributions of the Pakistani community, whose talent, dedication, and creativity enrich the fabric of our country.”

Sheikh Nahyan added: “The partnership between the UAE and Pakistan exemplifies the fraternal bonds essential for fostering social and economic prosperity globally. I am delighted to express my optimism for the bright future awaiting our two nations.”

He further stated: “Under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and with the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE has emerged as a global beacon of tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity. Our nation embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds, living and working together in peace and security. In the UAE, we cherish diversity, promote dialogue, and are united by shared values. This societal harmony is among our greatest achievements, and the Pakistani community is a vital part of this success. Today, in Dubai, we have every reason to rejoice in your National Independence Day.”

He elaborated: “In the spirit of shared humanity, I wish to highlight a significant national writing competition organised by the Watani Al Emarat Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, as part of the ‘Year of Community’ initiatives. We invite all residents of the UAE—citizens and expatriates, young and old—to share their reflections on the theme ‘What the UAE Means to Me.’ We welcome personal stories, experiences, and insights in the form of short stories, poems, letters, or essays, in Arabic or English, submitted via the official website: www.myuaestory.ae.”

Sheikh Nahyan expressed his confidence that the Pakistani community will contribute many inspiring entries to this competition. He urged those present to encourage their families, friends, and colleagues to participate, sharing their stories, aspirations, achievements, and gratitude. These contributions will form a collective legacy of life in the UAE, inspiring generations to come.

“Over the past decades, the United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan have established distinguished relations based on mutual respect and constructive cooperation in various fields, particularly in the economy, culture, and human development,” the Ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE told to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the event.

He expressed his pride in the fraternal bond uniting the two peoples, reaffirming a shared commitment to further strengthen it through joint programmes and initiatives that foster cultural exchange, bolster economic cooperation, and bring communities closer together through the arts, music, and a rich cultural heritage.

He added that relations between the UAE and Pakistan will continue to stand as a model of bilateral cooperation, with ongoing efforts dedicated to nurturing and advancing these historic ties for the mutual benefit of both nations and their peoples.

The event featured a programme of entertainment and cultural activities that showcased the distinct heritage, traditions, and arts of Pakistan, including its broad diversity. It highlighted the unique cultural identity of the Pakistani community through its arts, music, and folk traditions, as well as the varied talents of the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE, within a unified cultural framework.

The programme also acknowledged the positive contributions of the community to the UAE’s sustainable development, including cultural performances, traditional dances, musical displays, a section for heritage cuisine, and artistic works inspired by Pakistan’s rich environmental and cultural landmarks.

The event included a ceremony to recognise a number of prominent individuals and achievers from the Pakistani community who have demonstrated excellence and success across various fields and sectors through their contributions in the UAE.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan honoured the following personalities for their contributions: Bashir Ahmed & Masood Haider Afridi – owners of Afridi & Angell, law firm in the UAE, Abdul Salam & Shahida Salam – Founders of Pristine Private School, first British Pakistani Curriculum School in the UAE, Khan Zaman – Founder of Ibrahimi Palace Restaurant, longest-serving Pakistani in Abu Dhabi, Muhammad Habib – Founder of Habib Bank AG Zurich, Shabbir Merchant – Founder of Champion Group, Umamah Ali – who won NASA Space Challenge App award, Rafiq Ally & Shakila Ally – who manage a family production studio in the UAE, Farooq Samana & Imran Farooq – Founders of Samana Properties, Ahsan Rasheed – Founder of Peace Homes, Ali Ashraf Tumbi – Founder of Aqua Properties, Shafi Tabani – Founder of Prescott Homes, Atiq ur Rehman – longest-serving Pakistani banker in the UAE, headed CitiBank, Sana Mir – Pakistan’s most celebrated female cricket player, first woman in ICC Hall of Fame, and Ashfaq Ahmad – longest-serving Pakistani journalist in the UAE with Gulf News.

President of Pakistan Association Dubai Dr. Faisel Ikram has announced the expansion of the Pakistan Medical Centre. The AED 45 million project will play a key role in community fitness and healthcare by enhancing services three-fold.
Since Oct 2020, Phase 1 of PMC has made a difference in the lives of over 140,000 patients from 100 + nationalities. The new block will include advanced diagnostics & radiology, a dialysis unit, enhanced physiotherapy and expansion of existing specialised services.

Since the establishment of relations between the two nations in 1971 under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates has consistently pursued the development of its relations with Pakistan across multiple sectors.

In June of this year, a strategic partnership in governmental modernisation was initiated between the UAE and Pakistan, reflecting a mutual commitment to collaboration, the exchange of successful governmental practices, expertise, and the development of institutional capacities to support modernisation efforts.

The UAE is also recognised as a significant investor in Pakistan, particularly in telecommunications, services, tourism, information technology, oil and gas, housing, banking, and real estate.

Commissioner reviews Independence Day preparations

By
Ali Ali
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Sargodha, Aug 11 (APP):Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan on Monday chaired a meeting to review preparations for Independence Day celebrations under the theme “From Attainment of Freedom to its Protection”.
According to the Commissioner’s spokesperson here, the meeting was attended by deputy commissioners from various districts via video link. During the meeting, the DC said that sports competitions were being held with great enthusiasm and private and government buildings had been decorated with electric lanterns, national flags, and beautiful lighting.
They informed the meeting that city beautification efforts were underway rapidly and musical nights, floats, motorcycle rallies, and laser shows will be organized to engage the public. They said that a grand fireworks display is scheduled for August 13 evening at tehsil and district levels. “Flag-hoisting ceremonies will be held at district and tehsil headquarters on August 14”, the mentioned.
Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan emphasized that Independence Day symbolizes Pakistan’s existence and progress
and urged citizens to not only remember the sacrifices made for freedom but also play a practical role in promoting national unity, peace, and development. “The celebrations will foster patriotism among people,” he added.

Governor Sindh reviews Independence Day preparations with foreign consuls general

By
Ali Ali
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0
KARACHI, Aug 11 (APP):Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori, accompanied by the Consuls General of various countries, reviewed preparations for the “Maarka-e-Haq” Independence Day celebrations at the Governor House.
Consuls General from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Germany, Iraq, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bahrain, and Oman attended the meeting, said a news release on Monday.
Governor Sindh said that the largest digital stage in Pakistan’s history is being prepared for the celebrations. The Consuls General lauded the governor’s public service efforts and praised his keen interest in the “Maarka-e-Haq” Independence Day festivities.

Pakistan needs a well-coordinated cybersecurity strategy: President IRS

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):At a high-level dialogue on “Cyber Threat Intelligence” hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) in collaboration with the Pakistan Information Security Association (PISA), Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, emphasized the need for a well-coordinated strategy to safeguard Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
“In the age of hybrid warfare, where cyber threats have a devastating impact on national security, we need a proactive approach,” he stated. He pointed out that cyber-attacks have become a crucial tool in warfare and stressed the importance of investing heavily in the cybersecurity domain to address emerging challenges, said a press release issued here on Monday.
Ambassador Saleem also highlighted the necessity for robust cooperation among national stakeholders to build an efficient digital infrastructure in the country.
Director of PISA, Ammar Jafri spoke at the event, stating that cyber resilience is a national priority rather than merely a technical goal. He argued that to establish a secure nationwide cyber infrastructure, it is essential to shift our strategy and approach from reactive to proactive. Echoing Ambassador Saleem’s sentiments, Jafri stressed the need to foster collaboration across the public, private, and academic sectors to develop state-of-the-art digital infrastructure.
Director of Governance, Risk, and Compliance at the national CERT, Dr. Mehreen Afzal explained that the ultimate objective of cybersecurity is to protect human beings. She noted that as technology advances, the number of threats increases, with all devices focused on serving people.
Director of Training at NCCIA, Najeeb ul Hassan elaborated on the distinction between cybercrime and cybersecurity. He explained that while cybercrime efforts focus on protecting against attacks, cyber threat intelligence involves the need for actionable information.
While discussing best practices from around the world,  Zubair Ali Bhatti, CEO and Co-Founder of HPC, emphasized the importance of developing the mindset of the youth. He highlighted the need to provide solutions, integrate tools, and work on specific technologies, such as AI bots.
The event concluded with Ambassador Saleem presenting tokens of appreciation to all distinguished speakers, symbolizing a collective commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s cybersecurity posture.

Governor Kundi inaugurates Azadi Pakistan Solar Expo in Mardan

By
Ali Ali
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MARDAN, Aug 11 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Monday visited Mardan district and inaugurated the Azadi Pakistan Solar Expo as the chief guest.
Upon arrival, he was received by Mardan Mayor Himayatullah Mayar, former Mardan Chamber President Zahir Shah, and Acting President of Mardan Chamber of Commerce Nauman Saraf.
The Governor inspected stalls set up by solar panel manufacturers and other solar product companies, with over 50 national and international firms participating in the exhibition.
The event was attended by chamber officials, business representatives, and traders from the solar energy sector.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Kundi highlighted the growing importance of solar energy in the wake of the current electricity crisis, saying that both residential buildings and industrial units in the province are increasingly shifting to renewable energy sources.
He said that 70 percent of marble factories in Mardan have already switched to solar power, calling the promotion of alternative energy sources a commendable effort.
He praised the Mardan Chamber of Commerce for organizing the exhibition and acknowledged its services for the business community.
Criticizing electricity load-shedding and high tariffs, the Governor pointed out that despite being a major producer of electricity, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s people remain deprived of this facility.
He lauded engineers and entrepreneurs for their role in promoting affordable energy solutions and assured that he remains in contact with various federal ministries and institutions to improve the province’s situation.
On the security front, Governor Kundi warned that elements trying to destabilize peace are engaged in false propaganda against security institutions.
He reiterated that the people of the province stand firmly with their institutions to bring peace spoilers to justice and will continue to do so.

Pakistan stands tall on Int’l stage with renewed honor: Aleem Khan

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):The Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting of Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) was held under the Chairmanship of Central President Abdul Aleem Khan where the prevailing national and political situation as well as party affairs, were reviewed in detail.
Addressing the meeting, Federal Minister & President IPP Abdul Aleem Khan said due to the leadership of Chief of Army Staff Gen. Hafiz Syed Asim Munir and Pakistan Army, the country has earned remarkable recognition and globally boom at the international level, said a press release issued on Monday.
He added the Pakistan Army inflicted a decisive defeat upon the enemy in a short span of conflict. He urged party leaders to stand with the families of martyrs who sacrifice their loved ones for the nation’s security and well-being. He emphasized that the Battle of “Baniyan al-Marsous” had completely transformed Pakistan’s image and today the world regards our beloved country with respect and esteem.
Highlighting the party’s progress, Abdul Aleem Khan noted that winning 8 electoral seats in the Assemblies during its first elections was a significant achievement. “Politics is ever-changing, and we stand together through thick and thin, Insha’Allah, we will strengthen the party collectively,” he stated.
Abdul Aleem Khan praised the party’s successful public gatherings and stressed that our elected representatives and party leaders must visit flood-affected areas personally to extend sympathy to the victims, there. IPP President expressed satisfaction over the Intra-Party Elections and its endorsement by the Election Commission, congratulating party leaders on the achievement. All Members of the Central Executive Committee congratulated Abdul Aleem Khan on his re-election as Party President, pledging their full support and confidence in his leadership.
The meeting also deliberated on the early appointment of IPP’s Central and Provincial office bearers. Concerns were expressed over certain matters related to the Punjab Government alongside a demand for introducing farmer-friendly policies. It was decided that the IPP would participate through mutual consultation in the upcoming by-elections in Lahore and other districts. The proposal to hold the next Marka-e-Haqq Convention in Faisalabad was unanimously agreed upon. Furthermore, the party resolved to actively contest the upcoming elections in Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan for which Abdul Aleem Khan announced the formation of a five-Member Kashmir Committee.
Those present at the meeting included Minister of State Aun Chaudhry, IPP Punjab President Rana Nazir Ahmad Khan, Central General Secretary Mian Khalid Mehmood, Secretary Information Syed Samsam Ali Bukhari, Chaudhry Norez Shakoor, Chaudhry Abdul Rauf, Tahseen Gardezi, Syed Umar Gilani, IPP Lahore President Malik Zaman Naseeb, Mamoon Jaffar Tarar, Haroon Imran Gill, Chaudhry Ikhlaq, Raja Yawar Kamal, Yasir Arafat, Farrukh Maneka, Tahir Hindli, Malik Nouman Langrial, Chaudhry Zahiruddin, Ajmal Cheema, Chaudhry Ali Akhtar, Brig (R) Qaiser Mahey and others. Punjab Assembly Members Sarah Ahmad and Syeda Sumeera Ahmad also attended while MNAs Munaza Hassan and Gul Asghar Baghur participated via video link.

G-TCD holds awareness campaign on rainwater harvesting in Taxila

By
Ali Ali
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0
RAWALPINDI, Aug 11 (APP):The Gandhara Taxila Centre for Development (G-TCD), in collaboration with the Punjab Government, Taxila Baithak, and Clean & Green Taxila, has organized an awareness campaign on rainwater harvesting in Taxila.
G-TCD Chief Executive Sara Mehmood welcomed community representatives and outlined the programme’s objectives.
Tahir Mehmood and Hamza Rafi (Coordinator to MPA Mohsin Ayub) appreciated the initiative, announcing that the Punjab Government would adopt the revival of centuries-old water storage structures in Taxila – covering both rural and urban rainwater harvesting – as a regular government project.
Teacher Usman, renowned for his rainwater harvesting work across Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kshmir, showcased his innovative models and shared valuable insights.
The event also included plant donations by Teacher Usman to all attendees.
 A visit to Bohar Bun, where Tahir Salman of Taxila Baithak shared the site’s heritage and water management importance.
A community and youth-led plantation drive was at Bohar Bun, with enthusiastic participation from interns and students of Complete Human Resource Centre (CHRS)
 The campaign not only raised awareness but also secured the government’s ownership of the rainwater harvesting revival project – turning vision into action for a sustainable Taxila, the G-TCD news release said.
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