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KP Governor promises full support for flood affected families

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MANSEHRA, Aug 17 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday said that the province is passing through a difficult time and collective efforts are needed to overcome the challenges.
He expressed these views while addressing a public gathering in Kaghan on the occasion of former provincial minister Syed Ahmad Shah’s joining the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). PPP’s provincial president Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha, general secretary Shazi Khan, and other leaders were also present.
The Governor said that the people who lost their lives in the devastating rains and floods would not be left alone, adding that he would personally visit their homes to extend support.
He assured that all possible assistance would be provided to the provincial government as required.
Kundi expressed gratitude to the governors of Sindh and Balochistan for assuring their support and paid tribute to the Pakistan Army, saying, “Our brave forces defeated India in just four days, and it will not take long to eliminate terrorists.”
During the ceremony, prayers were offered for those who lost their lives in the recent floods, and participants observed a one-minute silence in their memory.
Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid also addressed the gathering.

Pakistan crushed Indian arrogance in four hours: PA speaker

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LAHORE, Aug 17 (APP):Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmed Khan has said that Pakistan crushed Indian arrogance within just four hours, and the world has acknowledged Pakistan’s superiority over India.
He was addressing a seminar titled ‘Global Impacts of Pakistan’s Military and Diplomatic Victories over India’, organised by the Waris Mir Foundation at Aiwan-e-Iqbal on Sunday.
Malik Ahmed Khan said the entire world is aware that Pakistan has been the biggest victim of Indian state-sponsored terrorism. He remarked that Indian rulers are obsessed with regional supremacy, but their desire has never been fulfilled. “I am not a supporter of wars, because I am not a brave man,” he said, adding that India’s political leadership had forgotten the horrors of war. He stressed the need for dialogue and peace in the region, even with “war-mad rulers” in India.
Referring to the Pahalgam incident, the speaker questioned who was behind the act of terrorism, while pointing out that Pakistan has concrete evidence of Indian involvement in terrorism over the last two decades. “From Kulbhushan Jadhav to RAW agents arrested in Jhelum, and Indian-backed terrorism in Balochistan, the world knows who is responsible,” he said. Pakistan, he added, had always given India a befitting reply.
He praised the Waris Mir Foundation as a progressive platform for dialogue and paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces. “Field Marshal Hafiz Asim Munir struck enemy targets with precision and stood like a wall of steel against Indian aggression,” he said, warning that any attempt to deprive Pakistan of its water rights would be foiled at all costs.
The speaker further said that after Indian aggression, Pakistan’s friendly countries extended full support to its stance.
On the occasion, PPP leader Faisal Mir, addressing the seminar, said no power in the world can defeat a country whose prime minister and supreme commander (President Asif Ali Zardari) are fearless.
Renowned journalist Shahnawaz Rana presented a paper on the late Waris Mir, while souvenirs were presented by the Foundation to Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani, Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi, and Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmed Khan.
Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi also spoke on the occasion.

Ambassador Tirmizi expresses solidarity with flood victims

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ABU DHABI, Aug 17 (APP):  Pakistan’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Faisal Niaz Tirmizi Sunday expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences on the tragic loss of lives and devastation caused by the recent floods across various parts of Pakistan, including the districts of Buner, Swat, Bajaur, Shangla, Mansehra, as well as in Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.                                                                                                          The ambassador described the calamity as a grave trial not only for the affected families but for the entire nation.
He called upon the Pakistani community in the UAE to stand shoulder to shoulder with their countrymen in this difficult time, share their grief, and extend all possible assistance to those affected.
In a gesture of solidarity with the victims and their families, ambassador Tirmizi announced the postponement of the Independence Day celebrations scheduled to be held in the UAE.
“May Allah Almighty grant eternal peace to the departed souls and strength and patience to the bereaved families,” the ambassador prayed.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a review meeting on Cashless economy.

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APP35-170825 ISLAMABAD: August 17 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a review meeting on Cashless economy. APP/TZD/FHA
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a review meeting on Cashless economy.
APP35-170825
ISLAMABAD: August 17 –

Govt committed to boosting exports: Rana Ehsan Afzal

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FAISALABAD, Aug 17 (APP):Prime Minister’s Coordinator to Commerce & Industries Rana Ehsan Afzal has said that the federal government is committed to promoting exports and strengthening national economy.
He expressed these views while talking to the media during his visit to Pakistan Lifestyle Furniture Expo on its concluding day, organised at a local marquee on West Canal Road Faisalabad.
He said that practical steps are being taken under dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to provide ease of doing business facilities to the business community which would help in flourishing domestic trade in addition to promoting Pakistani products in international markets.
He said that around 60 to 70 suppliers and manufacturers from across the country participated in the expo and showcased high-quality furniture and export-oriented products. Such exhibitions would not only provide an excellent opportunity for industrialists and businessmen to directly connect with consumers but also allow buyers to interact and make purchases from multiple suppliers under one-roof, he added.
He said that these initiatives would prove to be a milestone in promoting local industry while simultaneously paving the way for Pakistani products to make inroads into global markets.
He further said that the government in collaboration with Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Industries and other stakeholders would ensure maximum cooperation in introducing exportable products internationally.
He said that the government has set its priorities to strengthen national economy by simplifying trade procedures and providing facilities to the manufacturers, retailers and business community.
Responding to a question regarding Pakistan’s economy, Rana Ehsan Afzal said that although in the past the country did not progress as swiftly as it should have but now under visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, comprehensive economic reforms have been undertaken to put Pakistan on a sustainable path of stability and growth.
He said that the government is striving hard to enhance exports and remittances and these goals would be achieved with concerted efforts.
He said that government is committed to extend full support for boosting exports in the furniture sector as well as other industries to secure Pakistan a stronger position in global trade.
Former MPA Begum Najma Afzal, CEO Pakistan Lifestyle Furniture Expo Faisal Mohsin, MD Pakistan Lifestyle Export Zahra Faisal and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
More than 40 furniture brands were displayed at the exhibition with discounts ranging between 30 to 40 percent which attracted significant consumer interest.
Rana Ehsan Afzal congratulated the organizers of Pakistan Lifestyle Expo and expressed confidence that this platform would not only strengthen local businesses but also enable Pakistan’s quality products to capture markets across the world.

Telenor ensures seamless connectivity in flood-affected regions

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 17 (APP):In response to the devastating floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Telenor Pakistan has taken urgent steps to keep its network running and ensure uninterrupted connectivity for affected communities.
 With torrential rains creating severe challenges, the company mobilized its resources on priority to maintain seamless connectivity across its widest network in the affected areas during this difficult time.
As part of its relief efforts, Telenor Pakistan has also announced a special offer of free minutes for its subscribers in flood-hit areas of KP and GB, enabling them to stay connected with loved ones, emergency responders, and relief agencies during this critical time. The complimentary minutes, valid for three days, can be activated by dialing *345*29#.
This initiative focuses on the most severely impacted regions where heavy rains and flash floods have disrupted lives, livelihoods and strained essential communication infrastructure. By providing seamless connectivity and offering free minutes, Telenor Pakistan is helping facilitate immediate relief and coordination efforts on the ground.
Commenting on the initiative, Khurrum Ashfaque, CEO, Telenor Pakistan, said: “Our teams are on the ground ensuring seamless connectivity in flood-affected regions, and by offering free calling we are helping people remain connected with their families and relief agencies when it matters the most.”
Telenor Pakistan has a long-standing commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis by strengthening network resilience, enabling emergency connectivity solutions, and working closely with authorities to aid relief efforts. The company reaffirms its dedication to standing alongside the people of Pakistan in times of need.

NHA chairman visits KP,oversees rehabilitation of roads affected by rains & floods

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 17 (APP):On the instructions of the Federal Minister for Communications, the National Highway Authority (NHA) has mobilized all resources for the rehabilitation of national highways damaged by recent rains in the country’s northern regions.
As part of this effort, NHA Chairman Shehryar Sultan has been personally present in the field over the past three days, leading relief and restoration operations, said a press release issued on Sunday.
The Chairman is overseeing rehabilitation activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where multiple roads have been affected by rain and flooding.
The Chairman of NHA on Sunday visited Bonair and held a meeting with the Deputy Commissioner Bonair in his office along with senior NHA officers. The Chairman extended full support of NHA in restoration work and directed NHA officers to mobilize more machinery to accelerate the pace of work.
During his visit, he inspected the Nowshera–Chitral Highway (N-45) and issued on-site directives for its swift and complete restoration.
He also visited the Chakdara–Khwazakhela Highway (N-95), assessed the flood-affected sections, and instructed teams to expedite repair work.
In addition, he toured the Khwazakhela–Bisham Highway (N-90), reviewed the extent of damage, and issued immediate instructions for its full restoration.
During his visit, the Chairman directed NHA teams to work day and night to ensure the timely rehabilitation of roads across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He remained in close coordination with the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and local administration officials throughout the visit.
Beyond national highways, the Chairman also offered NHA’s assistance in restoring roads managed by the provincial government. To facilitate this, he formed a special committee, led by an NHA Member, to coordinate support for the rehabilitation of provincial roads.
As per the Chairman’s directive, the designated NHA Member will remain on-site in Buner and other affected areas until the restoration work is completed.
The Chairman is also continuously monitoring road rehabilitation efforts in other parts of the country.

No compromise on safety, Railways minister warns officers

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LAHORE, Aug 17 (APP):Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has said that there will be no compromise on safety and declared an open war against negligence within Pakistan Railways.
He made these remarks while presiding over an emergency meeting at Railways Headquarters on Sunday, where he received a detailed briefing on train operation safety measures.
Expressing strong displeasure over recent incidents of train derailments, the minister said, “Incompetent officers confined to air-conditioned rooms have no right to remain in Railways.”
Issuing a stern warning, Abbasi said, “Either improve safety matters or opt for retirement.”
The minister directed officials to immediately remove dummy coaches from the system, even if it required suspending train services. He also instructed continuous trolley inspections of tracks to ensure their safety for smooth operations and ordered that the vigilance department be equipped with all necessary facilities.
Highlighting the importance of locomotive staff, he said, “Train drivers hold the lives of 1,100 passengers in their hands; they must undergo refresher courses.”
Abbasi further directed that instead of extending contracts for luggage and brake vans, the process must be carried out through transparent open auctions.

CM orders reduction in fares following diesel price cut

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LAHORE, Aug 17 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to take immediate steps to reduce transport fares in line with the recent reduction in diesel prices, declaring it the fundamental right of people.
“The reduction in transport fares is a right of citizens, and their exploitation will not be tolerated,” the CM said while issuing instructions on Sunday.
She further directed that the revised fare lists must be prominently displayed for public awareness.
The CM ordered district administrations and the transport department to ensure strict compliance across the province, warning that action will be taken against transporters who fail to implement the government’s notified fares.

NA Speaker calls for nationwide tree plantation to tackle climate threats

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 17 (APP):National Assembly (NA) Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, on Sunday, emphasized the urgent need to embrace tree plantation as a national responsibility to counter the escalating challenges of environmental pollution and climate change.
In his message on Tree Plantation Day, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq noted that unchecked deforestation has led to increasingly severe environmental consequences, including torrential rains, soil erosion, floods, air pollution, and unpredictable weather patterns. These challenges, he stressed, demand immediate and coordinated action to ensure a cleaner, safer environment for the generations to come.
Highlighting the multifaceted benefits of trees, Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq stated that trees not only supply oxygen but also serve as a cornerstone for ecological stability. They play a critical role in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and preserving the natural beauty of our planet.
He called upon the nation to transform tree plantation into a continuous and collective movement, urging every citizen to contribute actively. “A green and thriving Pakistan requires joint efforts from both the government and the public,” he said. “We must launch large-scale plantation drives across schools, colleges, villages, and urban areas to move toward environmental self-sufficiency.”
Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq further emphasized that planting saplings is only the first step; ensuring their survival through regular care and monitoring is equally important. Only then can these saplings grow into strong trees that support the ecological system. He concluded that sustainable development and a healthy society are achievable only when individuals acknowledge tree plantation as a shared responsibility and actively participate in preserving the environment.
Deputy Speaker National Assembly, Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, in his message marking Tree Plantation Day, highlighted that tree plantation is not merely an environmental necessity, but also an integral part of our religious teachings and cultural values. He stressed the importance of raising public awareness about the need to green both urban and rural landscapes, stating that environmental consciousness is essential in today’s world.
Appealing to the public, educational institutions, and civil society organizations, Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah urged all stakeholders to take an active part in plantation campaigns. “Through collective efforts,” he said, “we can build a greener, more prosperous, and peaceful Pakistan.”