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Security finalized for Chehlum Processions in Rawalpindi

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NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, Aug 13 (APP): City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani on Wednesday chaired a meeting at Police Lines Headquarters to finalize security arrangements for the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).

Senior officers including SSP Operations, SP Potohar, SP Rawal, SP CIA, SP Security, as well as representatives from the Peace Committee, Traders Association, and procession organizers attended the meeting.

CPO Hamdani said the Rawalpindi Police, in line with Punjab government directives, had completed a comprehensive security plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) being implemented in letter and spirit.
He warned that negligence in duty would not be tolerated and urged Ulema to play a vital role in promoting harmony and peace.
“Your continued cooperation is critical to ensuring law and order,” the CPO added.

Religious scholars present at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to fostering tolerance, unity, and social cohesion. The meeting concluded with special prayers for the safety, peace, and prosperity of the country.

Kashmiris to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day, reaffirm call for Kashmir’s freedom: Altaf Ahmed Bhat

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NNPS Desk
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MIRPUR, Aug 13 (APP): Senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Movement (JKSM), Altaf Ahmed Bhat, has extended heartiest felicitations to the people of Pakistan and the country’s civil and military leadership on the occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day.

In an interview with APP on Wednesday, Bhat said the bond between Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir is rooted in shared faith, culture, and a historic struggle for freedom. “Pakistan’s independence is incomplete without the freedom of Kashmir. The promise made on July 19, 1947, through the Resolution for Accession to Pakistan, remains our guiding principle,” he stated.

He urged the Government of Pakistan to intensify political, diplomatic, and moral efforts for the liberation of Jammu and Kashmir and to ensure the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions on the dispute. “Diplomatic steps by the Government of Pakistan are crucial for the freedom of Kashmir, and it is imperative that all political leadership of Pakistan craft decisive and innovative diplomatic strategies to advance this cause,” he emphasized. Referring to U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks on mediation, Bhat said international facilitation should be pursued to bring lasting peace to the region.

Bhat highlighted that after the recent conflict with India—which Pakistan won with resilience, Alhamdulillah—Kashmir has re-emerged as the most dangerous flashpoint in South Asia. He condemned India’s ongoing oppression in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), where young people are being martyred daily to silence the voice of freedom.
Bhat also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all Kashmiri political prisoners, describing them as “the true leaders of our people.” He specifically named political detainees, including Shabbir Ahmad Shah, Dr. Hameed Fayyaz, Yasin Malik, Masarat Alam Bhat, Zaffar Akbar Bhat, Asiya Andrabi, Nayeem Ahmad Khan, and hundreds of others unlawfully imprisoned in Indian jails under harsh conditions.

He appealed to the international community, the United Nations, and the P5 countries to pressure India to end its inhumane actions, grant Kashmiris their right to self-determination, and enforce UN resolutions.
“On this Independence Day, we renew our commitment: Pakistan and Kashmir are one soul in two bodies, and our freedom struggle will continue until the dream of a free Kashmir and a truly complete Pakistan is achieved,” Bhat affirmed.

Chinese envoy reaffirms commitment to boost agricultural cooperation

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP): The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong has reaffirmed China’s strong commitment to strengthening agricultural industrial cooperation with Pakistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework.

Speaking at a seminar on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the ambassador highlighted the wide-ranging benefits the flagship Belt and Road Initiative project has brought to Pakistan.

He said CPEC has contributed to upgrading infrastructure, and generating employment opportunities, while paving the way for industrial growth.

He noted that the two countries are committed to further expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.

“CPEC is not only a symbol of our friendship but also a driving force for Pakistan’s socio-economic development,” the envoy remarked, adding that the second phase of the project will focus on industrial cooperation, agriculture, and sustainable development.

He said that relations between Pakistan and China are at their best, with mutual trust, respect, and cooperation at the core of their partnership.

He emphasized that both countries are enhancing bilateral collaboration in the agriculture sector to promote modernization and high-quality production using advanced technologies.

He noted that Pakistan’s agriculture sector holds great potential and that ongoing cooperation has already yielded successful outcomes.

The seminar was attended by senior government officials, business leaders, scholars, and representatives of both countries, who discussed ways to accelerate the pace of CPEC projects and strengthen bilateral ties.

Butt extends heartfelt greetings to Pakistanis on Independence Day

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), Information Secretary Mushtaq Ahmed Butt on Wednesday extended the heartfelt and sincere greetings to the people of Pakistan on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day (August 14) to be celebrated on Thursday.
In his message on the occasion of Independence Day, he said that in 1947, as a result of the tireless struggle, sacrifices and sincere determination of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the Muslims of the subcontinent, a great Muslim state — Pakistan — emerged on the world map in the blessed hours of the month of Ramazan.
He paid glowing tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and other leadership of the freedom movement and said that the political insight, foresight and prudent expediency of these leaders saved the Muslims of the subcontinent from the cunning of Hinduism.
Mushtaq Ahmed Butt said that the Kashmiri people are praying every moment for the stability, development and prosperity of Pakistan. “A stable Pakistan is not only of exceptional importance to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, but it is also the backbone for us. Pakistan is the axis of the hopes of the Islamic nation and the bearer of the dignity of the Ummah at the global level.”
He said that Pakistan is a sacred trust and a center of spiritual connection for us, which is dearer to us than our own lives.
He said that a strong and stable Pakistan is fundamental and decisive for the Kashmir independence movement. After Allah Almighty, Pakistan is the biggest supporter, benefactor and advocate of the Kashmiri people, who are courageously raising the Kashmir issue at every forum around the world.
At the end of his message, he said that we should always pray sincerely to Allah Almighty for the stability of Pakistan and the freedom of Kashmir, because this is the path that will protect the sacrifices of our martyrs and guarantee a bright future for the coming generations.

Cake cutting ceremony at RWMC to mark Independence Day

By
Kamran Muraad
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RAWALPINDI, Aug 13 (APP):A cake cutting ceremony was held here at the Rawalpindi Waste Management Company’s (RWMC) office to mark the Independence Day celebrations.
RWMC Chief Executive Officer Rana Sajid Safdar cut the cake and offered special prayers for the security, progress and prosperity of the country.
Speaking on the occasion, Rana Sajjad said the Independence Day “gives us a message of sacrifice, hard work and unity. RWMC does not limit this day to celebrations only, but we are determined to make our cities and villages fragrant and beautiful through cleanliness.”
A clean Pakistan, he said, was a developed Pakistan, and “we all have to come together to make this dream a reality. The  special cleaning operation of RWMC before the Independence Day celebrations is a practical demonstration of highlighting the importance of cleanliness among the public and keeping our environment bright and clean like the green and white flag of Pakistan.”
According to the RWMC spokesman, the RWMC’s special cleanliness campaign was in full swing. The hardworking RWMC workers were not only active in the Rawalpindi city but also in rural areas and tehsils.
“Village-by-village cleanliness is being ensured so that the joys of August 14 can be celebrated in a clean and pleasant environment” he said.
The aim of the campaign, the spokesman said, was “Every village, every neighborhood clean!” Zero Waste Rawalpindi is our dream”.
He said a special operation was also underway in the city under which road washing, garbage collection and other cleaning measures were being undertaken.

ECC approves key economic measures including industrial estate

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on Wednesday approved  key economic measures including industrial estate at PSM land, leather export facilitation, and major grants for Climate and media upgradation.
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet met today under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, to deliberate on key economic and development matters, said a release issued here.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, federal secretaries, and senior officials from relevant ministries and government departments.
During the session, the ECC considered and approved the removal of the requirement for Health Quarantine Certificates on the import and export of leather, a measure aimed at facilitating the leather industry and enhancing its competitiveness in international markets.
The Committee also approved a Technical Supplementary Grant for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination for the current financial year 2025-26, enabling the Ministry to strengthen its initiatives for environmental protection and climate resilience through participation in the upcoming 30th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP-30) to be held in Brazil later this year.
Furthermore, the ECC sanctioned a Technical Supplementary Grant amounting to Rs. 2,829 million in favour of the Pakistan Television Corporation (PTVC) for the upgradation of its English News Channel to improve broadcast quality and expand outreach to global audiences. The Committee urged the Ministry to develop a comprehensive business plan to make the channel self-sufficient and financially sustainable, thereby reducing dependence on federal grants in the future.
In another significant decision, the ECC approved the development of an Industrial Estate on the land of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) in Karachi, aimed at boosting industrial activity, generating employment opportunities, and attracting investment.
The Chair concluded the meeting by underscoring the importance of timely and effective implementation of these decisions to ensure their intended economic and social benefits.

Gallery 21, SADEQUAIN Foundation inks MoU

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):Gallery 21 and the SADEQUAIN Foundation USA have inked a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday to collaborate on preserving and promoting the legendary works of Sadequain, a pioneering Pakistani artist.
The MoU signing ceremony marked a significant milestone in safeguarding the artist’s timeless legacy for future generations.
Major General (R) Dr. Farrukh Seir, Founder of Gallery 21, and Zohaib Ch, Representative of the SADEQUAIN Foundation USA, signed the agreement, solidifying their partnership.
This collaboration aims to protect and showcase Sadequain’s artistic heritage, ensuring his contributions to Pakistani art continue to inspire and influence new generations.
The partnership between Gallery 21 and the SADEQUAIN Foundation USA is a testament to their shared commitment to preserving Pakistan’s cultural legacy.
By working together, they aim to promote Sadequain’s art globally, introducing his works to new audiences and cementing his place in the annals of art history.

Election Commission of Pakistan commemorates the 78th Independence Day with patriotic fervor

By
Khuram Maryam
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0
Election Commission of Pakistan commemorates the 78th Independence Day with patriotic fervor
APP71-130825 ISLAMABAD: August 13 - Election Commission of Pakistan commemorates the 78th Independence Day with patriotic fervor. APP/TZD/ABB
Election Commission of Pakistan commemorates the 78th Independence Day with patriotic fervor
APP71-130825
ISLAMABAD

Scattered showers, humid weather forecast for Lahore

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Aug 13 (APP):Scattered showers with humid conditions were recorded in the city on Wednesday, with the MET Office forecasting similar weather over the next 24 hours.
Rain began early in the morning and continued intermittently until noon across various localities.
According to MET officials, a seasonal low persists over north Balochistan, while moist currents from the Arabian Sea are affecting the upper parts of the country. Hot and humid weather is expected to continue over most plain areas, though partly cloudy skies with rain, wind, or thundershowers are likely at isolated spots in northeast Punjab, the Pothohar region, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Rain was also reported in Kotli, Garhi Dopatta, Muzaffarabad, Malam Jabba, Kakul, Sialkot, Murree, Narowal, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Babusar.
The highest temperature on Tuesday was recorded in Dalbandin at 45°C, while Lahore registered 38°C.

Punjab, Chinese firm ink $150m deal to establish special economic zone

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
Maryam
LAHORE, Aug 13 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren and Chairman Challenge Textile Group Wego Hong, here on Wednesday.
The meeting focused on boosting Punjab’s textile industry and exploring fresh avenues for investment. The meeting culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Bank of Punjab and Challenge Fashion Private Limited for a $150 million Chinese investment.
Under the agreement, Challenge Textile Group, one of China’s largest textile enterprises, will establish a state-of-the-art special economic zone on 100 acres in Punjab. This will house Pakistan’s largest and most advanced textile industry, producing 2 to 8 million garments per month using six million meters of fabric. The garments will be exported to leading American brands, generating over $100 million annually in exports. The project is expected to create 18,000 jobs within eight months and 25,000 jobs over the next five years, with raw materials for production sourced locally.
The CM highlighted the government’s commitment to industrial expansion, announcing plans for a “garment city” in Punjab and expressing the province’s intention to attract China’s large textile factories and institutions.
CM Maryam Nawaz added that the “Challenge Special Economic Zone” will accelerate industrial development and promote innovation, including recycling plastic waste for high-performance fabrics. She also emphasized heavy investment in technical skills through TEVTA to prepare market-ready human resources for the textile sector.
Wego Hong praised Punjab’s investment-friendly environment, saying the policies and vision of Maryam Nawaz Sharif were decisive in the company’s decision to invest. He said that the Challenge Group aims to bring textile machinery and technology superior to that in China, introducing innovation in Punjab’s textile market. He noted that the investment reflects the outcomes of Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s earlier visit to China and the Punjab government’s alignment with the group’s trade objectives.
Earlier, the CM extended a warm welcome to the Challenge Group delegation on its arrival in Lahore.
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