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Senator Rubina Khalid urges eligible women to use Social Protection Wallet responsibly
SHEIKHUPURA, Dec 29 (APP): Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid on Monday urged the eligible women to use Social Protection Wallet responsibly, protect their cellular SIMs, and lodge complaints against any illegal deductions.
She stated this during her visit to the campsite established at Government Jamia High School, Sheikhupura, where she reviewed the process of providing free SIMs for the Social Protection Wallet to eligible women. She also directed the staff to provide complete guidance to women and ensure prompt redressal of their issues
Chairperson BISP informed the women that the SIM provided for the Social Protection Wallet is absolutely free, and no deduction or fee is allowed. She emphasized that this SIM serves as their digital wallet, and therefore it is the responsibility of each beneficiary to keep it safe.

Addressing the women, she said that the programme is named after Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, a brave leader who made great sacrifices for her country and people. She urged the women to draw strength from Mohtarma’s struggle, remain courageous, and stand firm against any injustice. She advised them to immediately report any complaint through the relevant channels.

During the visit, Senator Rubina Khalid interacted with the deserving women present at the campsite, listened to their concerns, and directed the concerned officials on the spot to ensure the immediate redressal of their issues. She instructed the staff to ensure complete transparency in the free SIM distribution process and to strengthen awareness efforts so that eligible women are fully informed of their rights and can receive their funds through the Social Protection Wallet in a safe and dignified manner.
She reiterated her commitment that the Benazir Income Support Programme will continue its efforts to empower deserving women, promote a transparent payment system, and ensure accountability at all levels.
China expresses grave concern over Israel’s recognition of Somaliland
BEIJING, Dec 29 (APP): China expresses grave concern over Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and is firmly against it, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday.
China notes the statement issued immediately by the government of the Federal Republic of Somalia firmly rejecting the move, he said during his regular briefing.
He said that regional organizations and countries, including the African Union, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and Intergovernmental Authority on Development, have also deplored and strongly condemned the move.
According to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, Somaliland is an inalienable part of Somalia’s territory, the spokesperson said and added, China firmly supports Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and opposes any move to split its territory.
Lin Jian said that the issue of Somaliland is entirely Somalia’s internal affair. It should be resolved by the Somali people in a way suited to their national conditions and in line with the constitution. Countries outside the region should stop unwarranted interference. No country should seek selfish interests by aiding and abetting separatism in other countries.
“We urge the Somaliland authorities to stop at once their separatist activities and collusion with external forces,” he added.
As per media reports, on December 26, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that Israel and Somaliland signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition and establishment of full diplomatic relations.
APP/asg