Islamabad International Airport hits record Rs. 72.3 million in March 2025

MULTAN, Apr 18 (APP): Over 31,000 teams of Health Department would move from door to door from Apr 21 across eleven districts of south Punjab with a plan to cover over 6.4 million children below the age of five years to boost resistance in their bodies against the crippling disease of polio.

This was stated by officials in a meeting they had attended via the video link with special secretary health and population South Punjab Shahbaz Hussain in the chair.

Director General, Health Services South Punjab, Dr. Syed Ali Mehdi, and CEOs of district health authorities were also in attendance.

The meeting discussed in threadbare the arrangements for the national polio immunization campaign beginning from Apr 21, 2025 besides the vaccines administered against other diseases and performance of vaccinators.

Shahbaz Hussain commended the performance of vaccinators of DG Khan and Rajanpur districts and advised rest of the districts to improve.

“Children are our future and no negligence in their vaccination would be tolerated,” he said.

He ordered CEOs to minutely monitor the performance of vaccinators and officials and vaccinators found negligent should face departmental action.

He said, no child should be missed during the anti-polio drive and border areas of Rajanpur, Rahim Yar Khan and Dera Ghazi Khan should be focused specifically.

He said that in addition to fixed and mobile teams, deployment of vaccinators should also be ensured at important passages. He said, provincial secretary health and population Nadia Saqib wants the execution of immunization campaign with the spirit to make Punjab including south Punjab polio-free. He also appealed the parents to cooperate with the vaccinators and get their children immunized against polio.

SSP Shoaib holds open court in PS Nilore

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):On the special instructions of Inspector General of Police (IGP), SSP Operations Muhammad Shoaib Khan organized an Khuli Kachehri (open court) at Nilore Police Station in the Rural Zone on Friday.

A public relations officer told APP that the open court was attended by SP Rural Zone, DSPs, SHOs, and a large number of citizens. Complaints and issues raised by the public were heard attentively, and immediate directions were issued for their resolution.

SSP Shoaib said that the crackdown against drug peddlers and those involved in possession of illegal weapons would continue without any interruption.

SSP Shoaib said that citizens appreciated the efforts of SSP Operations Islamabad for organizing the open court and providing them with a direct platform to voice their concerns.

SSP said that complainants should freely share what is happening in police stations, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed without fear or favour.

SSP Shoaib said only those police officers would remain in service who work with honesty and dedication.

He said there is no room in the department for corrupt officials or those who obstruct the resolution of citizens’ issues.

KP Petroleum Dealers Association praises crackdown on illegal fuel stations

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PESHAWAR, Apr 18 (APP):Chairman Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Petroleum Dealers Association, Gul Nawaz Khan Afridi on Friday lauded the provincial government for its ongoing crackdown on illegal petrol pumps.

Speaking at a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club, Afridi expressed appreciation for Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, Commissioner Peshawar Division Riaz Mehsud, Deputy Commissioner Peshawar Captain (Retd) Sarmad Salim, and all district administrations for their decisive action.

Afridi described the current operation as more effective and coordinated than the past efforts and emphasized the importance of continuing the campaign. He stated that while everyone in the country has the right to conduct business within the legal framework, those wishing to operate in the petroleum sector must fulfill all legal requirements.

He condemned the sale of illegal petroleum products, stating it is an unfair encroachment on the rights of legitimate dealers who have invested millions and met all regulatory standards. Afridi warned that illegal fuel not only undermines lawful businesses and causes financial losses to the national exchequer but also poses serious risks to consumers’ vehicle engines due to its poor quality.

CDA Life President Jan Alam Mehsud also applauded the government’s efforts and called on commissioners in other regions to follow suit. He particularly urged for strict action against unauthorized fuel stations, commonly referred to as “Dhaba Stations,” in Dera Ismail Khan and other southern districts.

Association President Akhtar Nawaz Khan echoed similar sentiments, urging a full-scale operation against makeshift petrol pumps, which he said are harmful to both the public and the government. Former Chairman Abdul Majid, Executive Member Faizullah Marwat, and other provincial leaders were also present at the press conference.

General Secretary Baizad ur Rehman highlighted the broader danger posed by illegal fuel sales, calling them a threat not just to licensed dealers but to public safety as well.

NUML all set to host 5-day Spring Festival 2025 from April 21

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):National University of Modern Languages (NUML) was all set to host its much-anticipated Spring Festival 2025, a vibrant and colorful celebration of Pakistan’s rich cultural tapestry.

The five-day festival will kick off with a grand inauguration on April 21, culminating in a festive closing ceremony on April 25 at the NUML main campus in Islamabad.

This year’s theme, “Sacred Soil, Shared Spirit,” reflects a deep connection to the land and a collective sense of cultural pride and unity.

A week of joy, creativity, and unity awaits as the event offers an immersive cultural experience by bringing together the rich heritage of Pakistan’s provinces; Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.

The students will showcase the unique traditions and values of the country’s diverse regions.

The Spring Festival 2025 will also feature International Cultural Stalls, where students and faculty members from various departments will showcase their cuisine, costumes, customs, and traditions.

From local flavours to global vibes, the event is a true reflection of NUML’s multicultural environment.

Visitors will enjoy vibrant folk music and dance performances, engaging stage dramas and theatrical acts, and a lively Kitab Mela (Book Fair) for literature enthusiasts.

The festival will also feature spirited competitions such as Bait-Bazi and speech contests, along with a variety of indoor and outdoor sports activities, adding a dynamic and energetic element to the week-long celebration.

Members of the diplomatic corps and ambassadors from various countries will also grace the occasion, lending an international flair and prestige to the celebration.

The Spring Festival 2025 aims to foster intercultural harmony, creativity, and youth engagement while promoting national and international unity through the power of culture and communication.

The event will provide a platform for young students to celebrate national unity through cultural expression, literature, performing arts, and interactive activities.

The festival promises something for everyone — from food lovers and art enthusiasts to literature buffs and culture aficionados.

The Spring Festival reflects NUML’s continued commitment to fostering intercultural harmony, inclusivity, and the creative potential of youth.

10 accused held in major crackdown, 25 stolen motorcycles recovered

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 18 (APP):The Rawalpindi Police in a major crackdown against bike lifters on Friday arrested 10 accused from different areas recovering stolen 25 motorcycles and other valuables from them.

According to the police spokesman, the Taxila Police held accused Mujahid with 11 stolen motorcycles and were conducting raids to nab his accomplices.

Similarly, the Pirwadhai Police caught four accused involved in robbery, motorcycle lifting and other theft incidents.

The arrested accused included Hammad, Naseer Khan, Ziyad Zameer and Wasif. Three stolen motorcycles and Rs 2,000 were recovered from accused Hammad and Naseer, while a motorcycle and weapons were seized from accused Ziyad and Wasif.

Accused Ziyad and Wasif during initial investigation confessed their involvement in several theft incidents and would be sent to jail for an identity parade.

The Race Course Police also busted a three-member bike lifters gang and recovered 10 stolen motorcycles and two frames from their possession. The arrested suspects were identified as Mohsin, Asif and Adnan.

Meanwhile, the R A Bazar Police also nabbed two accused Bilal and Mujtaba for stealing 15 cartons of surf powder. The police took action on the complaint of a plaintiff that the accused called him on the pretext of buying surf and then stole its cartons from his car. Besides recovering the surf, the police also took the car used by the accused into their custody.

MoU signed for holding KP’s largest student olympiad at FAST University

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PESHAWAR, Apr 18 (APP):Metrix Pakistan and the Peshawar campus of the National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences (FAST-NUCES) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly organise NUTEC 2025, a three-day student olympiad scheduled to take place at the varsity on May 2, 3 and 4.

The MoU was signed by Director of Metrix Pakistan, Mohib Malik, and Faculty Head at FAST University Peshawar, Usman Abbasi.

The signing ceremony was also attended by Rohail Iqbal, President of NUTEC 2025, along with members of the faculty and student body.

Described by organisers as the largest student olympiad in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, NUTEC aims to bring together students from across the country to participate in a wide range of competitions and cultural events.

This year’s edition will feature contests in software engineering, mobile app development, artificial intelligence, coding, and web technologies.

Key competitions and prize amounts include a Software Engineering Quiz with a prize of Rs20,000, a Build with AI Hackathon offering Rs25,000, a Mobile App Development contest with Rs30,000 for the winning team, a Coding Competition with a prize of Rs15,000, and a Web Competition that carries the highest prize of Rs75,000.

In addition to the competitive activities, the event will host a job fair, with national and local companies invited to recruit fresh graduates and early-career professionals. Organisers said the fair would serve as a bridge between academia and industry, providing real-time employment opportunities for participants.

The olympiad will also include a Qawwali night, a live stream of TEDx talks, and a musical concert — elements that, according to organisers, reflect the event’s focus on combining innovation with cultural expression.

Speaking on the occasion, Metrix Pakistan Director Mohib Malik said the collaboration was aimed at creating a platform where young people could demonstrate their skills while gaining exposure to practical career paths.

“NUTEC is not just a set of competitions — it is a comprehensive platform that promotes innovation, leadership, and inclusion. This partnership with FAST University is rooted in our shared belief in empowering youth and building a more connected, opportunity-rich ecosystem,” he said.

Usman Abbasi of FAST University said the varsity was committed to nurturing talent and providing students with experiences that go beyond the classroom.

“Our goal is to ensure students are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with real-world readiness. With Metrix Pakistan’s support, we are scaling this event to new heights,” he said.

This marks the second consecutive year that Metrix Pakistan has partnered with FAST University for the olympiad. Last year’s edition, also co-organised by the two institutions, attracted widespread participation and was praised for its inclusivity and scale.

Metrix Pakistan is a youth-based organisation working across rural and underserved regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is considered one of the country’s leading platforms for promoting entrepreneurship, digital education, and youth empowerment.

FAST University Peshawar, part of the NUCES network, is recognised for its academic rigour in computer sciences and emerging technologies. The varsity has become known for hosting events that foster creativity, critical thinking, and student-led initiatives.

Officials said they expect this year’s NUTEC to host a record number of participants, with registration already underway across campuses and institutions nationwide.

Police head constable martyred in attack

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DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Apr 18 (APP):A police head constable was martyred as unknown miscreants ambushed a police party within limits of Chaudwan police station here on Friday.

According to police, some unknown miscreants who had already taken positions opened indiscriminate fire on Chawadan police station’s personnel when they were passing by Musazai Adda.

The police promptly retaliated the fire and exchange of fire took place between police and unknown miscreants

However, head constable Javed Alam was martyred from firing of the miscreants, who managed to escape.

Police cordoned off the area and started an operation to arrest the culprits.

Pak-GCC Anti-Narcotics delegations meet Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):Heads of delegation of the Pak-GCC Anti-Narcotics Conference called on Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad. The delegation included UAE’s DG Anti-Narcotics Department of Brigadier Saeed Abdullah Alsuwaidi, Qatar’s DG Anti-Narcotics Department Colonel Rashid Saree Rashid Al Kaabi, Saudi Arabia’s DG Narcotics Control Major General Saad bin Saud Al-Ajmi, Oman’s DG for Combating Narcotics Brigadier Mohammed Saleh Ali Rashid Al Gheilani, Bahrain’s Director Anti-Narcotics Department Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Khalid Al Bunainain, Kuwait’s Director Operations Colonel Naseer Bader Ajiman and GCC, CICCD Director Brigadier Eisa Saeed Al Kuwari. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha and Director General Anti-Narcotics Force Major General Abdul Moeed were also present on the occasion.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi thanked the delegations of UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman for participating in the Pak-GCC Conference. On this occasion, Director General Anti-Narcotics Force Major General Abdul Moeed briefed regarding the recommendations of the Pak-GCC Conference. Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the delegates of ANF Pakistan and Gulf Cooperation Council on the successful conference and appreciated their full cooperation.

All of the delegates reiterated their full cooperation with the Government of Pakistan in the fight against narcotics. During the meeting, it was decided to hold a meeting of the Anti-Narcotics Ministers of Pak-GCC countries by the end of this year. Mohsin Naqvi said that major decisions will be taken in this meeting to combat narcotics. He said that as a result of the recommendations of the conference regarding the fight against narcotics, mutual cooperation will be further strengthened. He added that these recommendations will help in formulating an effective strategy, a we can eradicate the scourge of narcotics from the society with collective efforts. Mohsin Naqvi welcomed all the delegates and underscored that all the GCC countries are very respectful to us. He highlighted that Pakistan has made its Anti-narcotics Force more effective and strong. He further said that we have conducted joint operations in the past as well and will continue to cooperate in the future also.

Minister of State Talal Chaudhry said that the use of technology to combat the menace of drugs is the need of the hour. All the delegates appreciated the steps taken by Pakistan in the fight against narcotics. They said that the conference provided an effective opportunity to enhance mutual cooperation in the fight against this scourge.

Shipping Activity at Port Qasim

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KARACHI, Apr 18 (APP):Seven ships, Wiking, Spil kartika, Orchid Kefalonia, Great Fortune, Ken Star, DM Kondor and Al Soor II carrying Container, Canola Oil, Steel Coil, Soyabean, Paraxylene and Gas Oil berthed at Qasim International Container Terminal, Liquid Cargo Terminal, MW-I, FAP, EVTL and FOTCO Terminal respectively Wednesday, Meanwhile four more ships, Twin Delight, Bentley I, Aquavita Bay and Zahra scheduled to load/offload Cement, Palm oil, Coal and Gas Oil also arrived at outer anchorage during last 24 hours.

A total of seven ships were engaged at PQA berths during the last 24 hours, out of them one ship, Wiking left the port today morning, while six more ships, Spil Kartika, DM Condor, Great Fortune, Orchid Kefalonia, IVS North Berwick and Sal Twino Explore are expected to sail on Friday.

Cargo volume of 153,201 tonnes, comprising 108,706 tonnes imports cargo and 44,495 export cargo carried in 3,930 Containers (1,502 TEUs Imports & 2,428 TEUs Export) was handled at the port during last 24 hours.

There are Eleven ships at Outer Anchorage of Port Qasim, out of them four ships, CMA CGM Don Pascuale, Aquavita Bay, Kashi, Twin Delight carrying Palm oil, Coal, Cement and Container are expected to take berths at LCT, PIBT, MW-2 and QICT are respectively on Friday.

Rupee sheds 10 paisa against US Dollar

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):The Rupee on Friday depreciated by 10 paisa against the US Dollar in the interbank trading and closed at Rs280.71 against the previous day’s closing of Rs280.61.

However, according to the Forex Association of Pakistan (FAP), the buying and selling rates of the dollar in the open market stood at Rs280.75 and Rs282.25, respectively.

The price of the Euro decreased by 14 paisa to close at Rs319.17 against the last day’s closing of Rs319.31, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The Japanese yen went up by 01 paisa and closed at Rs1.97, whereas an increase of 77 paisa was witnessed in the exchange rate of the British Pound, which was traded at Rs372.38 as compared to the last day’s closing of Rs371.61.

The exchange rates of the Emirates Dirham and the Saudi Riyal increased by 03 paisa each to close at Rs76.42 and 74.81 respectively.

Farah Naz hosts prominent overseas Pakistanis to review IT, AI advancements at ICB, G-6/3

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP): Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training Farah Naz, on Friday hosted esteemed overseas Pakistanis, Dr. Ishfaq Ahmed, an IT & AI expert and PhD in Information Technology from Australia and Mr. Shamshad Khan Tanoli, a successful overseas Pakistani entrepreneur, at the Islamabad College for Boys (ICB) in sector G-6/3.

The distinguished guests conducted an in-depth review of all IT-related interventions at the institution, including a tour of the state-of-the-art Robotic Lab.

The college principal briefed them on the curriculum and training activities conducted at the High Impact Lab, where educators are being equipped with the latest technological skills to foster future-ready learning.

A highlight of the visit was the introduction of the newly established Software Technology Park, named in honor of Ambassador Quayes—a tribute to the foundations he laid at ICB and the far-reaching global impact of his diplomatic and educational legacy. This facility aims to empower students and freelancers by offering resources and space to pursue digital careers at no cost.

During their visit, Dr. Ahmed and Mr. Tanoli also participated in the official ICB Podcast, where they shared insights on the future of IT, freelancing, PM’s educational reforms and encouraged students to take initiative in financial education and digital empowerment.

They were given a guided tour of various modern learning facilities including the Smart Classrooms, Virtual Reality Learning Center, Math Lab, Gaming Room, Library, and Gym—demonstrating the college’s commitment to holistic and tech-integrated education.

Concluding the visit, the guests took part in the prize distribution ceremony for the National Financial Literacy Week Celebrations and received shields from ICB in sector G/6-3.

This visit reflects the Ministry’s vision of engaging overseas Pakistani talent to uplift the national education framework and foster innovation across institutions. ICB G/6-3 is a google recognized institute.

177 Afghans’ families repatriated through Torkham border: Home Dept

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PESHAWAR, Apr 18 (APP): The repatriation of Afghans Citizens Cards (ACC) and Proofs of Registration (PORs) holders and illegally stayed Afghans continued from Khyber Pakthunkhwa and 177 more such families were repatriated through Torkham border on Thursday.

According to the KP Home Department statement here, these families include 283 male, 268 female and 889 children.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Home Department has requested KP Govt to make arrangements for repatriation of 240 illegal afghans/ACC holders arriving from Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin and Attock on Friday for their smooth return to their home country through Torkham border.

These foreigners were being provided free transport, food, water and other necessary facilities from Landikotal holding camp upto Torkhum border.

Pakistan’s Squash stars shine at Australian Junior Open

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP):Pakistan’s rising squash stars have once again demonstrated the country’s legacy in the sport, delivering a spectacular performance at the 2025 Australian Junior Open by winning an impressive four gold medals and one silver — a clear signal that Pakistan’s squash dominance is far from fading.

According to information made available here by Pakistan Squash Federation, young athletes from across Pakistan stepped onto the international court with confidence and skill, outplaying their global counterparts in a tournament that saw fierce competition and high-stakes matches.

Ahmad Ali Naz dazzled in the U11 Boys category, showing skill well beyond his years.

Azan Ali Khan proved unstoppable in the U17 Boys division, displaying tactical brilliance.

Mahnoor Ali took home gold in the U13 Girls, marking herself as a future champion. Mehwish Ali, with her powerful gameplay, conquered the U17 Girls field.

Adding to Pakistan’s medal haul, Sehrish Ali earned a well-fought silver medal in the U15 Girls category, further showcasing the depth of talent emerging from the country.

Egypt to extend support in fight against Hepatitis

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP): Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal and the Egyptian Ambassador on Friday discussed boosting technical collaboration and medical tourism.

Egyptian health experts will visit Pakistan, extending support in the fight against Hepatitis C.

In a significant development aimed at boosting regional health cooperation, Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to enhance bilateral collaboration in the health sector, with a specific focus on eliminating Hepatitis C.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal and the Ambassador of Egypt to Pakistan, Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid.

The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to pursue joint strategies and knowledge exchange to tackle key health challenges affecting both nations.

A core highlight of the discussions was the proposal for joint initiatives to eradicate Hepatitis C.

The two sides explored the possibility of launching collaborative programs that draw on Egypt’s successful experience in controlling and significantly reducing Hepatitis C prevalence in recent years.

The meeting also touched upon expanding technical cooperation and promoting medical tourism between the two countries.

Both emphasized the value of sharing expertise, training health professionals, and improving healthcare systems through coordinated efforts.

As part of this enhanced collaboration, a delegation of Egyptian health experts is expected to visit Pakistan in the coming months.

The delegation will provide technical assistance and share best practices to support Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to combat Hepatitis C and strengthen healthcare delivery.

Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal welcomed the growing partnership and expressed optimism that this collaboration would yield tangible benefits for both countries.

“Egypt’s successful public health interventions, particularly in Hepatitis C control, offer valuable lessons. We look forward to working closely with our Egyptian counterparts to replicate similar success in Pakistan,” he stated.

The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination will oversee the development of a roadmap to implement the agreed areas of cooperation.

The formation of Environmental Protection Force was a strategic necessity of the time : Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb.

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Maryam Zahra

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DPO reviews Crime Control Department

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GUJRAT, Apr 18 (APP):District Police Officer (DPO) Gujrat Dr Mustansar Atta Bajwa chaired a meeting with officers of the Crime Control Department, accompanied by SP Investigation Mehar Muhammad Riaz and SP Operations Mudasir Iqbal.

In-charge of the Crime Control Department Syed Aamir Abbas Shirazi, gave a comprehensive briefing to the officers regarding functioning of the newly-established department. The briefing covered the objectives, structure, responsibilities, and work flow of the department.

DPO stated that the establishment of the Crime Control Department was a significant step towards ensuring effective monitoring and timely prevention of crimes in the district. He urged the officers to enhance their operations through teamwork and the use of modern technology in the fight against crime.

Ashab annexes St. Louis Open 2025 title

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (APP): Pakistan’s Ashab Irfan delivered a phenomenal performance, securing the $15,000 St. Louis Open 2025 title, according to information received here on Friday.

“We are grateful to Allah for his continued success and dedication to representing Pakistan, bringing immense joy to his supporters and Pakistan Squash Federation,” his coach Jahanzeb Masood said in a statement.

“As his coach, I can attest to his tireless work ethic and perseverance during training sessions. I extend my appreciation to his family and supporters for their unwavering belief in him.

“Additionally, I thank Houston Squash Club, Kanso Sports North America and Alpha Bravo Construction for their sponsorship, which has been instrumental in his success,” he said.

“Following this victory, Ashab’s ranking will significantly improve from 66 to 57. We look forward to his continued progress and remain committed to supporting him,” he added.

PITAC team visits CDD KP-EZDMC

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PESHAWAR, Apr 18 (APP):A team from Pakistan Industrial Technical Assistance Center (PITAC), Lahore led by Mr. Sheikh Mehboob a private sector member of the Governing body of PITAC and Chairman of the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (M&EC) of the organization, visited the Cluster Development Department (CDD) of KP-EZDMC, said press release issued here on Friday.

The purpose of the visit was to explore collaboration opportunities in the field of industrial trainings and technology sharing.

During the visit, the CDD chief outlined the department’s objectives and ongoing initiatives to support potential industrial clusters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. PITAC expressed strong interest in technology sharing and joint efforts to bolster industrial growth in the province.

Mr. Sheikh Mehboob commended the Provincial Government’s initiative of establishing a dedicated clusters development department under KPEZDMC and efforts of the Company, particularly highlighting the establishment of a dedicated zone for small arms manufacturers in the Jalozai Economic Zone.

MoU signed for holding KP’s largest student olympiad at FAST University

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