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Gallery 21, SADEQUAIN Foundation inks MoU

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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

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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

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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

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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.

IGP Rizvi vows foolproof security in Independence Day message: “Your Safety, Our Honor”

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi has extended warm Independence Day greetings to the people of Pakistan, pledging that the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police will ensure foolproof security so citizens can celebrate the occasion with joy and peace under the slogan “Your Safety, Our Honor.”
In his message, the IGP said that August 14 symbolises the nation’s unity, sacrifices, and unwavering resolve for a free and sovereign Pakistan. “Today, as we mark the 78th Independence Day, the Islamabad Police stands united with the people to safeguard the spirit of freedom,” he stated.
The IGP said a comprehensive security plan had been enforced across the capital, deploying over 4,000 police officers and personnel at key locations, entry and exit points, and celebration venues. More than 350 Islamabad Traffic Police officers have also been deployed to maintain smooth traffic flow, guide road users, and implement the special traffic plan for the day.
Special patrol squads, snipers, and Counter-Terrorism Department teams have been mobilised, while Safe City cameras, the “Sky Eye” drone surveillance system, monitoring vans, and fully equipped control rooms will remain operational round the clock to ensure rapid response to any situation.
He appealed to citizens to fully cooperate with police, follow traffic guidelines, avoid aerial firing, one-wheeling, and other illegal activities, and immediately report any suspicious movement on the police helpline 15. “Your cooperation is our greatest strength in keeping the city safe,” he added.
“We are the heirs of the martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation,” IGP Rizvi said, adding that “the blood of our force is forever absorbed in this sacred soil, and it strengthens our resolve to protect our homeland at any cost.”
IGP Rizvi stressed that the Islamabad Police’s mission was not only to protect lives and property but also to create a secure environment for families to enjoy Independence Day celebrations without fear. “Together, we can make this day a true reflection of unity, discipline, and dignity,” he said.
The message concluded with the reaffirmation: “Your Safety, Our Honor — Our Promise to Pakistan.”

Independence Day reflects nation’s founding vision, says PM’s coordinator

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Information and Broadcasting for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Affairs, Ikhtiar Wali Khan, on Wednesday emphasized that Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day is not merely a date on the calendar, but it reminds us the timeless sacrifices of our forefathers—whose vision, values and unwavering resolve continue to shape the nation’s journey.
While talking to APP, Ikhtiar Wali Khan urged the citizens to uphold the spirit of independence by fulfilling their responsibilities for the development and prosperity of the country.
“This day reminds us of the countless sacrifices made for our freedom. Let us honor them by building a Pakistan that is peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive,” he said.
He also noted that this year’s celebrations carried greater significance due to the historic victory in Marka-e-Haq against India, which he said, “doubled the joy and pride of our 78th Independence Day.”
Ikhtiar Wali Khan concluded by extending his heartfelt congratulations to the nation on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day.

ISSI celebrates Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad on Wednesday (ISSI) marked Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day with a celebratory event to pay homage to the vision and courage of the founding fathers and to honour the nation’s rich history, indomitable spirit, and unshakeable resolve.
Speaking on the occasion, DG ISSI ambassador Sohail Mahmood extended heartfelt felicitations to everyone on this joyous occasion.
He said Independence Day was always a moment to reflect on the sacrifices rendered by the founding generations for Pakistan’s creation; to reaffirm our commitment to the principles of unity, faith, and discipline; and to reiterate our resolve to fully realize the Quaid’s vision for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity.
Ambassador Sohail noted that Pakistan has time and again demonstrated its resilience in the face of daunting challenges, drawing strength from its people’s determination, enterprise, and unrelenting efforts for a brighter future.
He stated that these qualities have enabled the nation to emerge stronger through every test.
Pakistan’s success in the recent Marka-e-Haq was a compelling testimony to this reality.
He also especially lauded the role of Pakistan’s youth, which was to shoulder the responsibility in the future to carry forward the Quaid’s mission.
As part of the celebrations, ISSI’s research Interns presented short documentaries creatively showcasing Pakistan’s history, culture, and achievements across various fields.
The presentations offered a vivid portrayal of the country’s resilience, diversity, and rich heritage, and were warmly received by the participants.
The event concluded with a special cake-cutting ceremony.

Bilawal Bhutto felicitates nation on Independence Day

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KARACHI, Aug 13 (APP):Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday extended heartiest felicitations to the nation on its 78th Independence Day, reaffirming his unwavering resolve to intensify the struggle for eliminating unemployment, inflation, poverty, and all forms of discrimination.
He vowed that no compromise will ever be made on democratic stability, the sanctity of the 1973 Constitution, or Pakistan’s unassailable defence and sovereignty.
According to the press release issued by the Bilawal House Media Cell, Chairman PPP said in his message that this day is a reminder of the resilience, unity, and unyielding spirit of our people. “In 1947, under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, our forefathers achieved what many thought impossible — a free and sovereign Pakistan. Their dream was a country where every citizen, regardless of religion, caste, gender, or creed, would live with dignity, equality, and justice,” he added.
“On this Independence Day, I call upon every Pakistani, especially our youth, to rise above divisions, reject hate and intolerance, and work together for a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan.”
Chairman reminded the nation that freedom is not a gift preserved in history, but a duty that must be renewed every day.
“Let us honour our past by building a future worthy of the sacrifices that gave us this homeland. May Pakistan always stand tall among the nations of the world — strong in unity and rich in compassion.”

CM orders foolproof security for Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA)

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LAHORE, Aug 13 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has paid homage to Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) on the commencement of his 982nd Urs celebrations, directing authorities to ensure comprehensive peace and security arrangements during the Urs as well as the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).
The CM instructed that all arrangements for the security and facilitation of pilgrims attending the Urs be further improved, with special emphasis on upholding the tradition of warm hospitality. She directed that facilities for the provision of langar and sabil be expanded to better serve the visitors.
CM Maryam Nawaz also ordered enhanced security and traffic management measures around Data Darbar to ensure smooth access for pilgrims. “The pilgrims visiting the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) are our valued guests. They should not face any inconvenience during their pilgrimage. Providing security and safety to them is our foremost priority,” she added.

Uzbek envoy hails Pakistan’s spirit, extends heartfelt Independence Day greetings

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By Rehan Khan

ISLAMABAD, August 13 (APP): Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, has extended warm greetings to the Pakistani nation on the occasion of the country’s 78th Independence Day, describing August 14 as “a day of pride and happiness” rooted in dreams, sacrifices, and unwavering belief.

He, in a congratulatory video message, said he was speaking not only as Uzbekistan’s envoy but also as “a friend and brother,” noting that the spirit of independence he sees in Pakistan mirrors that of his own country’s history.

“From the snow-capped mountains of the Northern Areas to the waves of Arabian Sea, Pakistan is blessed with abundant natural resources,” he remarked, adding that ties between the two countries go beyond diplomacy to encompass “a relationship of hearts,” further strengthened through trade, culture, education, and transport cooperation.

On this occasion, the envoy prayed for Pakistan’s strength, unity, and a bright future. “May the Pakistani flag always fly high, its people remain prosperous, and every home be filled with peace, love, and hope,” he maintained.