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PRCCSF emphasizes importance of collaborative frameworks to strengthen regional stability

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP): Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), emphasized the importance of collaborative frameworks, multilateral cooperation, and knowledge sharing to strengthen regional stability in a multipolar global order.
PRCCSF emphasizes importance of collaborative frameworks to strengthen regional stability
He made these remarks during his address at the 4th Academic Symposium on “Global Security Governance,” jointly organized by the Baize Institute of Strategic Studies at Southwest University of Political Science and Law, Chongqing, China, and the Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand held at Chongqing, China., where about 80 Scholars/ Experts from 27 countries participated in the event.
This year’s symposium was themed “The Contemporary Connotation and Global Significance of the Global Governance Initiative.” Keynote addresses were delivered by Prof. Ma Fang, Chairman and President at the Baize Institute for Strategic Studies, Southwest University of Political Science and Law, and Professor Hu Ergui, Vice President of Southwest University of Political Science and Law, Chongqing, China. Both speakers highlighted the importance of strengthening international cooperation, advancing rule-based global governance, and addressing the challenges posed by an increasingly multipolar world.
Khalid Taimur Akram gave a keynote speech on “Rethinking Regional Security Governance in a Multipolar World” in the forum themed “Regional Practices in Global Security Governance”.
In his speech, Akram analyzed emerging regional security architectures and highlighted the evolving roles of both state and non-state actors in addressing contemporary security challenges.
Drawing on practical case studies and policy insights, Akram proposed innovative approaches for integrating regional practices with global governance mechanisms.
His presentation was highly appreciated for combining scholarly analysis with actionable strategies for promoting peace, security, and cooperative governance.
The 4th Academic Symposium brought together leading scholars, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing issues in global security and governance successfully provided a dynamic platform for dialogue and exchange among scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world. By combining theoretical insights with practical perspectives, the symposium contributed significantly to the ongoing discourse on global security governance, emphasizing the relevance of regional practices and multipolar cooperation in addressing contemporary global challenges.

SAU and Line Agro Fertilizer Join Hands to Advance Sustainable Agriculture

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HYDERABAD, Dec 19 (APP):Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Line Agro Fertilizer (Pvt.) Limited to strengthen research collaboration aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture, improving soil health and developing modern fertilizer technologies.
The partnership seeks to convert academic research into practical, farmer-friendly and climate-resilient solutions while fostering closer linkages among academia, industry and the farming community.
According to a statement issued by the SAU spokesperson on Friday, the MoU signing ceremony was held at the senate hall of the university in the presence of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal.
The agreement was signed on behalf of SAU by Director ORIC Dr. Tanveer Fatima Miano, while Line Agro Fertilizer was represented by its Chief Executive Officer Rashid Khan Qaimkhani.
Under the five-year agreement, both institutions will work jointly to enhance agricultural productivity in Pakistan, improve soil fertility and support farmer livelihoods through the development of cost-effective, efficient and sustainable agricultural solutions.
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal highlighted that meaningful collaboration between academia and industry was vital to addressing present-day agricultural challenges, particularly those related to soil fertility and sustainable crop production.
 He noted that such partnerships play a key role in translating scientific research into affordable and practical solutions for farmers, thereby contributing to national agricultural development.
The MoU is extendable by mutual consent. Professor Dr. Allah Wadhayo Gandahi from SAU and Rashid Khan Qaimkhani, CEO of Line Agro Fertilizer, have been nominated as focal persons to oversee and coordinate activities under the agreement.

Sargodha University hosts discussion on China’s global civilization initiative

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SARGODHA, Dec 19 (APP):The University of Sargodha organised a panel discussion titled “China’s Global Civilization Initiative: Bridging Cultural Philosophies” under its flagship Research Arena, bringing together scholars, policy experts, media professionals, and students to explore the civilisational dimensions of China’s global vision and its relevance in a rapidly changing world.
The event commenced with opening remarks by Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the University of Sargodha’s commitment to fostering research-driven dialogue and strengthening international academic engagement. He emphasized that understanding initiatives such as China’s Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) is essential for promoting cultural harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among nations.
The session was moderated by Prof. Dr. Tahir Mumtaz Awan, Director, Pakistan Institute of China Studies (PICS), who offered valuable insights into China–Pakistan academic collaboration and underscored the strategic importance of China’s civilizational outlook in shaping regional and global discourse. He steered the discussion towards broader implications of intercultural understanding and cooperation.
Tahir A. Dhindsa, Founder Director of Sustainable Development Television (sdpi.tv), traced China’s historical evolution, noting that continuity of civilization and a long-term strategic vision have played a crucial role in shaping China’s distinctive development model.
Engr. Dr. Hafiz Ghulam Murtaza Qamar, Director Implementation UoS, highlighted China’s strong commitment to preserving its culture and language, stressing that modernization can progress alongside the protection of civilizational identity.
Ms. Nabeela Jaffer, Head of China Program at IRS, elaborated on the concept of a “Community with a Shared Future for Mankind,” explaining that it promotes inclusivity, mutual respect, and win-win international cooperation.
Ms. Reema Shaukat, Media Specialist at IRS, discussed China’s rich civilizational legacy and observed that adherence to cultural traditions has significantly enhanced China’s soft power and global image.
Dr. Ashfaq Ahmad, Chairman, Department of International Relations, analyzed the global context of the GCI’s launch, noting that it responds to growing polarization and encourages dialogue among civilizations as a pathway to peace and stability.
The concluding ceremony was attended by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas. panel discussion offered a comprehensive understanding of China’s civilizational philosophy and its global relevance, emphasizing the role of cultural preservation, intercivilizational dialogue, and international cooperation in achieving sustainable development and global peace. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment.

Police mock exercise to deal with emergency situation

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GUJRAT, Dec 19 (APP): A joint mock exercise was conducted by Gujrat Police along with other law enforcement agencies to enhance preparedness for emergency situations.
According to a police spokesperson, participants practiced responding to potential terrorist threats at sensitive locations and successfully controlled the simulated scenarios.
The drill included personnel from the Police, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), Traffic Police, Rescue 1122, Security Branch, Special Branch, and other relevant agencies.
Officials said Gujrat Police and allied agencies remain alert and fully prepared to handle any emergency.
The exercise aimed to improve police response, strengthen coordination among agencies, and ensure the protection of public lives and property.

Ahsan Iqbal stresses peace, stability and reforms for national progress

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LAHORE, Dec 19 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said that peace, political stability, continuity of policies and consistent implementation of reforms are the four essential pillars for achieving sustainable national success.
He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 45th King Edward Medical University (KEMU) Annual International Scientific Conference 2025 as the chief guest on Friday. He congratulated the organisers on holding the conference and termed King Edward Medical University a premier institution that has brought pride to Pakistan in the field of healthcare.
Ahsan Iqbal said overseas Pakistanis should not be viewed as a “brain drain” but rather as a “brain gain,” emphasizing the importance of human resource development. Referring to the situation in the Middle East, he said that Israel, with a population of around one crore, had carried out a massacre of eighty thousand Muslims in Gaza, while two billion Muslims failed to stop it. He added that Israel imposed its will through effective use of human resources.
Highlighting Islamic history, the minister said Muslim Spain represented a golden era during which Muslims witnessed nearly three hundred years of progress and glory. He lamented that today Muslims have become disconnected from their roots. He said the Holy Quran inclines humanity towards knowledge and invites reflection on the mysteries of the universe, stating that there are signs for those who possess intellect and vision. He added that pondering over the universe opens pathways to progress and described the Quran as a “powerhouse,” stressing that Muslims must not disconnect their supply line from it.
Calling for a return to foundational values, Ahsan Iqbal said this was essential to restoring the country’s stature. He said efforts had always been made to move Pakistan forward, recalling that in the 1990s Pakistan’s exports stood at five billion dollars. He expressed concern that countries once economically behind Pakistan had moved far ahead, while Pakistan remained stagnant, calling it a matter requiring serious reflection. He said no patient could be treated without first diagnosing the disease.
The minister said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was a significant opportunity for progress, but Pakistan even pushed away its close friend China by leveling allegations of corruption. He emphasized that at least fifteen years of continuous and consistent effort were required to put the country on a sustained path of development, adding that progress demands dedication and preparedness.
Referring to recent economic challenges, Ahsan Iqbal said that in 2022 the world was betting Pakistan would become another Sri Lanka within four weeks. He said the government was questioned for taking on a sixteen-month tenure, but at that critical time the entire political leadership decided to save the country from bankruptcy. He claimed that within two years inflation was reduced from 38 per cent to 4 per cent.
He said students are the future of Pakistan and stressed that continuous effort is necessary for progress in every sector. He added that the government has launched the “Uraan Pakistan” initiative to ensure sustainable development. He said challenges in the health sector must be addressed and appreciated the alumni of King Edward Medical University for carrying forward the institution’s traditions.
The minister concluded by saying that leading Western institutions, including Harvard, have adopted traditions rooted in Muslim civilization, underscoring the enduring value of Islamic intellectual heritage.

IGP Sindh calls on Governor, briefs on security steps

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KARACHI, Dec 19 (APP):Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon called on Governor Sindh Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori at  Governor House here Friday.
The IGP briefed the Governor in detail on law and order and security measures.
The Governor said that the protection of the life and property of the public was the government’s top priority. He said that the government was taking comprehensive measures to eliminate street crimes.
CCTV cameras play a key role in crime prevention, the Governor said adding that effective coordination among all institutions was essential for maintaining law and order situation.
The Governor also appreciated the performance of IGP Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon.

PAS delegation visits livestock station

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SARGODHA, Dec 19 (APP):A delegation of Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS) officers from the 52nd Common, led by Director Civil Services Academy Dr Faisal, along with Additional Director Civil Services Academy Usman Ali and Chief Executive Officer of the Punjab Livestock & Dairy Development Board (PLDDB) Ali Arshad Rana, visited the Livestock Experiment Station (LES) Khizerabad, operating under the PLDDB.
The delegation was warmly received by Additional Director Livestock Sargodha and Senior Manager Farm, Dr. Tanveer, who briefed the guests on the objectives of the farm, its achievements, and the overall role of the Livestock & Dairy Development Department (L&DD).
The visiting officers showed keen interest in the ongoing farm activities and appreciated the efforts being made to promote livestock and dairy development in the region.

Govt expands seed inspection network to curb fake, substandard seed

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):Pakistan has intensified efforts to strengthen enforcement of its seed regulatory regime by expanding the network of authorised seed inspectors across provinces, aiming to curb the sale of fake and substandard seed and better protect farmers’ interests.
According to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan, the initiative is being spearheaded by the Federal Seed Certification and Registration Department (FSC&RD) under the National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority (NSDRA), the body responsible for enforcing the Seed Act, 1976, and its subsequent amendments.
According to the document, effective regulation of Pakistan’s seed sector requires the mandatory registration of all stakeholders, including seed importers, producers, exporters, and dealers, to ensure quality assurance across the entire value chain and safeguard farmers from losses linked to poor-quality inputs.
Enforcement of the Seed Act remains a core mandate of FSC&RD, particularly to prevent the marketing and distribution of counterfeit, substandard, or unapproved seed of any crop or plant. However, the document notes that current staffing levels at FSC&RD are insufficient to monitor the expanding scale of seed business operations nationwide. To overcome this issue, NSDRA has delegated seed inspector powers under Section 19 of the Seed Act to provincial agriculture officials and 134 officers of the Punjab Agriculture Department have been notified as seed inspectors, leveraging the province’s extensive field presence and large agricultural footprint.
Building on this model, NSDRA has also issued letters to other provincial agriculture departments, seeking nominations of officers to be authorised as seed inspectors in their respective jurisdictions. In response, the Government of Sindh has recommended 93 officers for notification as seed inspectors in the province.
The document states that the broader objective is to improve regulatory enforcement at the grassroots level, expand field coverage and monitoring frequency, ensure compliance with seed quality and certification standards, strengthen protection for farmers against fraudulent and substandard seed, and establish a harmonised national enforcement framework.

Chief Secretary GB Attend the Passing Out Parade at Police Training Center Gilgit

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ASTORE, Dec 19 (APP): Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr. Abrar Ahmed Mirza, attended the passing out parade of Police and Excise Police at the Police Training Center Gilgit as the chief guest. Addressing the ceremony, he stated that the police are the backbone of peace and unity, and the government will play every possible role in establishing a strong, dignified, and professional police force.
The Chief Secretary said that the government is taking practical measures to uphold the prestige of the police and further strengthen police stations.
 Addressing the passing-out officers and personnel, he urged them to perform their official duties with integrity, rising above all biases, and through their actions bring pride to society, the nation, and the institution.
He further said that the role of the police is of key importance in establishing peace, prosperity, and a harmonious society in the country. The Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan congratulated the passing-out police officers and personnel on the successful completion of their training and extended his best wishes for their bright future.
Inspector General of Police Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr. Afzal Mahmood Butt, also addressed the ceremony and highlighted the steps being taken to enhance the professional capabilities of the police force. Commandant Police Training College Gilgit, Ms. Tahira Yousuf, in her welcome address, said that the Police Training Center is playing an important role in training police personnel in accordance with modern requirements. Later, she administered the oath to the passing-out police officers and personnel.
On this occasion, the Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan also inspected the parade. Inspector General of Police Afzal Mahmood Butt presented a traditional cap to the Chief Secretary. During the ceremony, the Chief Secretary distributed shields and cash prizes among police officers and personnel who demonstrated outstanding performance in various fields.

Commissioner approves 3 key development projects in Sargodha

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SARGODHA, Dec 19 (APP): Commissioner Sargodha and Administrator Municipal Corporation (MC) Jahanzeb Awan approved three major development schemes aimed at improving urban infrastructure and beautification in Sargodha.
He approved these schemes while presiding over a meeting of the Development Committee here at Commissioner’s office on Friday.
Deputy Commissioner Sargodha Captain (retd) Muhammad Waseem, MC Chief Officer Majid Bin Ahmed, along with other concerned officers were present.
The approved projects include patchwork of damaged roads in various parts of the city, installation of modern streetlights on the Islampura Flyover, and installation of grills under the beautification plan along the city area of Khushab Road.
The committee was briefed that deteriorated roads across different localities would be repaired in phases to ensure smoother traffic flow and improved commuting conditions.
It was further informed that energy-efficient, automated streetlights would be installed on the Islam Pura Flyover, which will switch on automatically in the evening and turn off in the morning. Under the Khushab Road beautification initiative, grills will be installed within the Municipal Corporation’s jurisdiction to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area.
On the occasion, the Commissioner directed that patchwork should not be carried out at locations where excavation is expected soon under WASA sewerage projects.
He stressed strict adherence to quality standards and completion of all development works in accordance with prescribed government rules and regulations.