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Parliamentary Secretary reviews mega development projects at RDA

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RAWALPINDI, Dec 13 (APP):On the special directions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Parliamentary Secretary for Housing, Urban Development and Public Health Engineering (HUD&PHE) Sultan Bajwa visited the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) to review ongoing mega development projects in the city.
The meeting was chaired by the Parliamentary Secretary at the RDA Conference room.
During the meeting, RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza presented a detailed briefing on ongoing initiatives, key achievements, and future plans of the Authority.
Major projects discussed included the Rawalpindi Ring Road, Nullah Lai Project, rehabilitation of the Metro Bus Corridor, and proposed schemes such as the rehabilitation of Murree Road from Flashman to Faizabad, and the construction of joint check posts at Adyala Road, Koral Chowk, and Chur Chowk.
The DG also updated on approved, unapproved, and illegal housing schemes in Rawalpindi, stating that strict action is being taken against illegal developments. She reaffirmed RDA’s commitment to modern urban development, transparency, and timely completion of projects to enhance city infrastructure, traffic management, and public service delivery.
Parliamentary Secretary Sultan Bajwa appreciated the RDA team’s performance in accelerating urban development and addressing civic challenges.
He emphasized the importance of sustainable growth, effective urban planning, environmental considerations, and improved civic infrastructure to enhance the quality of life for Rawalpindi residents.
The meeting concluded with actionable directives aimed at expediting project timelines, strengthening inter-departmental coordination, and ensuring that public interest remains at the forefront of all development activities.
The officials present at the meeting included Director Engineering Muhammad Anwar Baran, Director Administration Iftikhar Ahmad, Director Land Ghazafar Ali Awan, Director Estate Management Aabgeena, Deputy Director Engineering Muhammad Kamran Chaudhry, and other senior officers.

PSL roadshow set to take place in New York this afternoon as top cricketers arrive

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NEW YORK, Dec 13 (APP): The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to host its second international roadshow in New York Saturday afternoon (2 am PST Sunday), amid “growing interest” from investors in the United States, Middle East and Europe for its franchises, according to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials.

The event at New York’s Plaza Hotel is taking place days after the PCB held a “successful” roadshow in London to attract international investors to the PSL, Pakistan’s premier T20 cricket league.

The upcoming 11th edition of the league, set to take place next year in April and May in six cities across Pakistan.

Featuring two new teams to the existing roster of six, it marks the first time in the league’s history that matches will be played at six venues.

Meanwhile, top Pakistani cricket stars, including Wasim Akram, Ramiz Raja, Salman Ali Agha, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel have arrived in the city to participate in the event.

On Sunday, December 14, the PSL trophy will tour New York City, showcasing at the iconic Times Square, highlighting PSL’s growing international appeal.

PM Shehbaz Sharif pays tribute to Sultan Golden

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LAHORE, Dec 13 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to Sultan Golden on breaking the reverse car driving world record.
The premier congratulated the entire nation on Sultan Golden’s achievement for setting a new world record in reverse car driving.
He said, “Sultan Golden has brought pride to Pakistan across the world.”
The prime minister stated that whole nation was proud of Sultan Golden.
He said that the government was determined to provide all possible facilities for promotion of the sports.

Sultan Golden’s global achievement enhances Pakistan’s image: Governor Kundi

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PESHAWAR, Dec 13 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi Saturday congratulated Sultan Golden on setting a new world record in reverse driving, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan and the province.

In his congratulatory message, the Governor said that Sultan Golden deserves great appreciation for further improving Pakistan’s image at the global level. He remarked that such achievements highlight the positive and talented face of the country before the world.

Governor Kundi said that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa take great pride in Sultan Golden’s remarkable success.

The Governor emphasized that promoting the bright and positive image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through sports is among his top priorities. He said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a land of talented youth, and it is important for the world to recognize and acknowledge this potential.

He expressed his best wishes for Sultan Golden and hoped that he would continue to bring more honors to Pakistan in the future.

PM felicitates Independent Group for clear majority in Pakistan Bar Council elections

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LAHORE, Dec 13 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday congratulated Independent Group for securing clear majority in Pakistan Bar Council elections.
The premier extended heartfelt congratulations to Ahsan Bhoon and Azam Nazeer Tarar on being elected as members of the Pakistan Bar Council.
He also congratulated Ahsan Bhoon and Azam Nazeer Tarar on the success of Independent Group and for securing clear majority across Pakistan.
Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said, “Lawyer’s community trust in the Independent Group is proof that lawyers want serious and responsible leadership for the resolution of their issues and supremacy of constitution and rule of law.”
He said, “Federal minister Azam Nazeer Tarar is committed to resolve the issues faced by the lawyer community.”
He stated that he had always directed the law minister not only to remain in close contact with lawyers but also play active role in ensuring the provision of rights to them on priority basis.
PM said, ” The government considers lawyer’s fraternity as an important pillar of the state.”
He mentioned that all possible cooperation would be extended to strengthen harmony among bar and the bench.

Field Marshal declares 35th National Games closed, hands over flag to Punjab for hosting 36th games

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KARACHI, Dec 13 (APP): The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Saturday officially declared the 35th National Games 2025 closed and as a Chief guest along with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari passed the flag of Pakistan Olympic Committee to Punjab Olympic Association for hosting the next 36th National Games.
The week-long games declared Army as top team with total medals 353 including 200 gold, 97 silver and 56 bronze. Wapda as runner-up total medals 232 including 85 gold, 73 silver and 74 bronze medals while Navy on 3rd position, which got 110 medals including 36 gold, 39 silver and 35 bronze.
The host Sindh team clinched 6th position in the provisional medal position with 96 medals including 11 gold, 26 silver and 59 bronze.
Addressing the closing ceremony, the Chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed pride, confidence and renewed faith in Pakistan’s future as the national sporting event concluded successfully.
He said that while the flames of the National Games may have come to rest, the spirit ignited by the event would continue to inspire unity, discipline and hope across the country. On behalf of the people of Sindh, he thanked Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, for honouring the occasion with his presence, describing his leadership and service as a symbol of strength, professionalism and national unity.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the National Games were not merely a competition of speed, strength or skill, but a celebration of Pakistan itself. “From Gilgit-Baltistan to Gwadar, from Khyber to Karachi, from Lahore to Larkana, every athlete who competed here carried the colours of their province, but they stood united under one flag,” he added.
He said Sindh was honoured to host the prestigious event, recalling that the province has historically played a defining role in Pakistan’s journey, including the passage of the first resolution in favour of Pakistan. “Hosting the National Games reflects Sindh’s continued commitment to federation, unity and national cohesion,” he added.
Chairman PPP appreciated Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Provincial Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Sardar Muhammad Bux Khan Mahar for their leadership and planning, which ensured the successful organization of the Games. Praising the athletes, he said they were the pride of Pakistan and would return home as ambassadors of discipline, perseverance and unity, regardless of medals.
He also thanked coaches, officials, volunteers, medical teams, organizers and security agencies for ensuring that the Games were conducted peacefully, safely and with dignity.
Referring to recent national challenges, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that during testing times earlier this year, Pakistan responded with unity and resolve.
He said that under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the armed forces demonstrated professionalism, coordination and strength.
“Pakistan emerged victorious, with its sovereignty defended and its honor upheld. This victory was not only a military victory, it was a national one. It reflected the unity of our people, the discipline of our forces, and the unbreakable bond between the nation and those who stand guard over it,” he added.
He urged that the same spirit of unity must now be carried forward into classrooms, stadiums, institutions and daily life, envisioning a Pakistan where every child in every province has equal access to opportunity in sports, education, health and national service.
Bilawal congratulated all participants, medalists and provinces, expressing hope that the friendships formed, lessons learned and unity displayed during the National Games would continue to strengthen Pakistan’s federation.
He concluded his address with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad.”
Earlier, the PPP Chairman presented the Field Marshal with Sindhi topi and Ajrak.
They distributes medals among the top teams and winners.
In the end, the Field Marshal Asim Munir said, “I declare 35th National Games 2025 closed.”

Shayan Afridi shines at Jr Orange Bowl

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 13 (APP): Pakistan’s young tennis talent, Muhammad Shayan Afridi, made an impressive start to his campaign by securing a great victory in the 12 & under first-round match at the Junior Orange Bowl.

Shayan battled for 3 hours and 20 minutes against David Llovera (USA) to clinch a hard-fought win with a final score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, said a press release.

In another encounter, Pakistan’s Rashid Ali put up a strong performance but unfortunately lost the match after winning the first set against Gamble Thomas 6-3,4-6,2-6.

US Consul General meets Speaker KP PA; discusses bilateral cooperation, economic opportunities

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PESHAWAR, Dec 13 (APP):The US Consul General in Peshawar, Thomas W. Eckert held a meeting with Speaker  Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Babar Saleem Swati, in Speaker’s Chamber.
In a statement issued here Saturday, the meeting was conducted with purpose of bolstering relationship between two sides and identifying possibilities for collaborative efforts across diverse sectors.
Accompanying Mr. Eckert was Ms. Kathleen Gablesco, the Political and Economic Officer from the US Consulate General Peshawar. Several Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs), including Mian Sharafat Ali, Sajjadullah Baqi, Akbar Ayub Khan, and Fatehul Mulk Nasir, were present from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.
The discussions covered topics of shared concern, joint collaboration, the stability of the region, and potential economic avenues.
The participants also underscored importance of reinforcing institutional connections and fostering consistent diplomatic communication.
Specific areas of focus during the talks included trade, commerce, and investment opportunities within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alongside potential for modernizing and developing mineral industry.
Speaker Babar Saleem Swati conveyed his expectation that the United States would propose beneficial plans and suggestions that would aid in the growth of the province and improve public well-being.
He affirmed that both the provincial government and the assembly are receptive to any initiative or proposal that supports economic progress, enhanced governance, and the general prosperity of the region.
The US Consul General, in turn, showed keen interest in the future outlook for partnership and cooperation across multiple domains.

President congratulates Sultan Golden on setting world record

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 13 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari Saturday congratulated Sultan Golden on setting a new world record in reverse driving.

In a statement, he said, “Sultan Golden’s success is a reflection of the courage, skill and dedication of Pakistanis.”

“This feat has further strengthened Pakistan’s positive image at the global level,” he said and expressed his best wishes for Sultan Golden and prayed for more successes for him.

Credit goes to Nawaz Sharif for launching big development projects in country: Ahsan Iqbal

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LAHORE, Dec 13 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said on Saturday that Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif had introduced development based politics in the country.
He said this while addressing the launching ceremony of the book titled ‘Mard-e-Ahan Muhammad Nawaz Sharif’ written by Muhammad Nawaz Raza at Lahore Press Club.
He said, “Nawaz Sharif has huge fan following just because he came up with country’s economic agenda to ensure development and prosperity.”
The minister said that credit goes to Nawaz Sharif that he had launched all big and worth mentioning development projects in the country.
He stated that Nawaz Sharif had not only tried to give new direction to the country’s economy but understanding the requirements of modern economy, Mian Nawaz Sharif had introduced economic reforms during 1990 and 1991.
He said that India followed almost all those reforms introduced in Pakistan by Nawaz Sharif and Manmohan Singh had admitted that India had benefited from these reforms. Ahsan Iqbal said that it was very unfortunate that Pakistan could not continue those reforms in the country which resulted in bringing instability.
He said that if Nawaz Sharif had implemented those reforms for 10 years in the country then he would have been recognised as greater leader than Mahathir Mohamad.
He said that when in 2013, Nawaz Sharif came to power, Pakistan had been facing worst electricity load shedding crisis, terrorism and economy was in poor condition but under the dynamic leadership of Nawaz Sharif country was steered out of these challenges.
He said that China Pakistan Economic Corridor project highlighted country as emerging economy in the world.
Ahsan Iqbal said that in 2017, through a conspiracy PML-N government was toppled and the development journey in the country was halted.
He said, “Nawaz Sharif has made remarkable efforts for ensuring connectivity in the country adding that today travelling time from Gilgit to Sakrdu had reduced to almost 03 hours from 12 to 13 hours.”
Federal minister said that travelling time from Multan to Lahore and Sukkur to Multan had reduced.
Karachi, Hyderabad motorways, roads in Balochistan and travelling time between Gwadar to Quetta had reduced.
He termed Nawaz Sharif as ‘Sher Shah Suri’ of Pakistan who ensured connectivity in the country through spreading a huge network of roads and motorways.
The minister said, “Nawaz Sharif has faced a lot of conspiracies and negative propoganda and he is most held accountable politician in the country’s history.”
He said that Nawaz Sharif had faced cases like ‘Iqama’ etc adding that Nawaz Sharif had not faced any corruption case.
He said that it was very unfortunate that conspiracy was hatched against Nawaz Sharif to tarnish his image and contributions for the country’s development.
He said for him Nawaz Sharif was an architect of modern Pakistan who laid foundation of modern economy in the country.
He said, “There is a need of ‘charter of Pakistan’ which may include charter of democracy, charter of economy, charter of society and charter of security in it.”
He said that Pakistan Armed Forces had defeated it’s enemy in ‘Marka-i-Haq’ and now country’s enemy was trying to weaken Pakistan through terrorism.
He said it was highly important to ensure stability in the country adding that freedom of journalism  should not be misused.
He said, “We respect freedom of expression but if it is used for levelling false allegations then it is not needed.”
He said that media organizations should develop a code of conduct through which elements using freedom of expression in wrong way could be stopped.
He said that collective efforts were required to make Pakistan 1 trillion dollars economy by 2035 and 3 trillion dollars economy by 2047.
He said that different nations in the world had developed through ensuring  peace, stability and continuity of policies.
Pakistan could not afford any sort of chaos, he said and added that all energies should be utilized for ensuring ‘Marka-i-Tareeqi’ in the country.
He also congratulated author of the book and appreciated his efforts in the field of journalism.