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PTCL integrates software driven storage platforms from dell technologies to modernize its Data center infrastructure

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Pakistan’s leading telecom and ICT services provider, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has teamed up with renowned technology solutions provider, DWP Technologies to integrate software driven Enterprise and Mid-tier storage platforms from Dell Technologies to modernize its data center infrastructure.
A signing ceremony was held in Islamabad to formalize the partnership, attended by Jafar Khalid, Group Chief Technology and Information Officer, PTCL & Ufone, 4G, and Rohail Bashir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd., along with senior management from PTCL Group, DWP and Dell Technologies said a news release.
As part of its ongoing digital transformation journey, PTCL is focused on upgrading its storage infrastructure to boost operational efficiency, enhance performance, and ensure scalability to meet the growing data demands of its network. This modernization effort will streamline PTCL’s operations and solidify its position as a leader in the telecommunications sector. The current mission-critical platform and ecosystem supporting PTCL and Ufone4G, which spans three sites using enterprise replication services (SRDF), will remain fully supported and maintained throughout this initiative, ensuring uninterrupted operations and business continuity.
The upgraded infrastructure introduces several advanced features designed to elevate PTCL’s service delivery and operational effectiveness. It incorporates a three-site active-active metro architecture as part of an enhanced availability initiative, allowing PTCL to maintain continuous service even during localized disruptions. Additionally, the platform is built with scalability in mind, capable of accommodating the future needs of PTCL Group.
The transformation also features significant operational benefits, including drastic reduction in PTCL’s Data Center footprint, along with its power and cooling requirements, leading to lower operational costs and greater energy efficiency.
Sharing his thoughts, Jafar Khalid, Group Chief Technology & Information Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G said, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in PTCL’s digital transformation journey, besides stamping PTCL’s authority in Data Center innovation and digital transformation. By modernizing our infrastructure, we are not only enhancing our operational capabilities but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to our enterprise customers.”
Rohail Bashir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies said, “Our collaboration with PTCL and Dell Technologies underscores our dedication to empowering businesses with transformative technology solutions, and showcases our expertise in delivering scalable, efficient, and reliable infrastructure that drives operational excellence. We are proud to partner with two industry leaders to help shape the future of telecommunications in Pakistan and beyond.”
The recent upgrade to PTCL’s data infrastructure is a key milestone in fostering technological innovation and future readiness, which enables the company to seamlessly address the growing and evolving needs of its individual and enterprise customers.

EHCD approves criteria for Emirati students pursuing higher education abroad

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ABU DHABI, Jun 3 (WAM/APP): In line with the UAE’s strategic direction to enhance the quality and outcomes of higher education and human development, and to align its outcomes with national development goals and market needs, the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD) has approved a set of criteria for Emirati students who wish to pursue their higher education outside the UAE.

The criteria aim to enhance student’s competence and readiness to enter the job market, and to regulate international scholarship options in accordance with the UAE’s aspirations, national plans, priority sectors, and future developments, thereby supporting the optimal investment in Emirati talents.

Through this initiative, the Council aims to empower students to make well-informed decisions based on clear criteria that ensures the quality of selected programs and academic institutions. It also seeks to enhance the value of the qualifications they obtain, supporting their future career opportunities both within the UAE and abroad.

These criteria are derived from a clear vision to elevate the higher education experience abroad, by guiding students toward accredited and high-quality academic institutions and specializations. Students wishing to enroll in a higher education institution outside the UAE, whether at their own expense or through a sponsoring entity, are required to study at institutions recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in accordance with the following approved classifications and standards:

1. The institution must be ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide in the intended field of study, regardless of overall ranking or country, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings, or
2. If studying in the United States or Australia, the institution must be ranked among the world’s top 100 universities in the intended field of study, and among the top 100 universities overall, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings, or
3. If studying in any other English-speaking country (excluding the USA and Australia), the institution must be ranked among the world’s top 200 universities in the intended field and among the top 200 universities overall, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings, or
4. If studying in a non-English-speaking country, the institution must be ranked among the world’s top 300 universities in the intended field and among the top 300 universities overall, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings.

The Council emphasised the importance of adhering to the specified criteria to avoid non-recognition of qualifications obtained abroad. Non-compliance may result in these qualifications not being acknowledged for purposes such as employment, promotion, study leave, exam leave, thesis discussion, or eligibility for qualification-related benefits within the federal government sector in the UAE.

To ensure a transparent and a balanced approach, taking into account special cases, Emirati students who are currently pursuing their studies abroad, whether self-funded or sponsored by a scholarship entity, will be granted a one-year grace period from the effective date of this decision to adjust their academic status.

A specialised committee, chaired by the General Secretariat of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council has been established to review exemption requests. The committee will assess these requests based on precise criteria that consider the nature of the specialization, the academic institution, and the individual circumstances of each case, to support the students’ best interests and enhance their educational and career opportunities.

The Council also instructs the students and the relevant parties to communicate directly with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for inquiries related to the approved criteria and the process for submitting exemption requests.

This mechanism is part of a broader set of policies and initiatives being developed by the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council in coordination with relevant entities.

These efforts are designed to enhance the quality of higher education, strengthen accreditation recognition system, and support Emirati students both within and outside the UAE. Such initiatives contribute to empowering Emirati talents, developing human capital, and nurturing generations equipped with the skills, capabilities, and knowledge that align with the UAE’s aspirations and reflects its vision for the future.

New technologies to help Belarus recycle 99% of waste

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MINSK, Jun 3 (BelTA/APP): In a new episode of BelTA’s Nation Speaks project Olga Sazonova, Head of the Waste Management Department at the Belarusian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, spoke about the technologies that would enable Belarus to recycle 99% of its waste.

In total, Belarus generated about 60 million tonnes of waste in 2024. Of this, just over 4 million tonnes is solid municipal waste (including secondary material resources), and about 56 million tonnes is industrial waste. Some 80% of the collected municipal solid waste is household waste. Some 70% of the waste from economic activities of enterprises is large-tonnage waste, i.e. waste from the production of potash and phosphate fertilizers, Olga Sazonova said.

“The current waste recycling level in the country is 33% because large-tonnage waste is practically not used. There are no technologies in the world that would allow for its effective use. This is primarily due to the economic feasibility of its use. Secondly, selling large quantities of the product obtained during processing is problematic. These are salts and halite clay-salt sludge. Currently, one of the areas of phosphogypsum processing is the production of rare earth elements. There are certain developments, and we are working in this direction,” the head of the department said.

If we consider the production waste recycling level excluding large-tonnage waste, it is around 90%, while for municipal waste, this level is around 40%.

According to the Goal 99 subprogram of the state program Comfortable Housing and a Favorable Environment, the country needs to achieve a 100% waste recycling rate, including municipal waste. A high percentage of municipal waste recycling can be achieved not only through separate collection of glass, plastic, and paper, Olga Sazonova said. “Practice shows that separate collection can ensure a level of no more than 40%. In order to reach 100%, two new waste management technologies are being introduced,” she said.

The first is the energy use of waste. “This can be either direct incineration of waste by processing plants or RDF, which is then sent to cement plants,” the head of the department explained.

The second is composting organic waste components, because they account for about 40% of all municipal waste. “Organic waste needs additional efforts. This may include composting sites and their further use,” she said.

Railways beefed-up security in trains, at stations during Eid

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Pakistan Railways Police has issued instructions to all Superintendent of Police (SP) Railways to tighten security in trains as well as at stations to avoid any untoward incident during Eid-ul-Azha days.
On the direction of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the department had directed all SPs Railways to depute sufficient force at exit and entry points of all railway stations and strict watch to be carried out of suspicious persons, an official in the Ministry told APP.
Pakistan Railways Police Commando Force would be deputed at vulnerable installations and in trains, while bomb disposal staff would also be kept on alert for search of luggage and passengers at railway stations.
“The SPs Railways directed to conduct complete check and search of empty rakes before trains reach the platforms for departure for their destinations,” the official added.
All the SPs Railways would also be directed to remain present on Eid holidays and randomly check trains, stations and escorting staff, the official added.
The official said the number of passengers was increasing day by day at railway stations and trains ahead of Eid and the Railway administration had arranged special trains across the country to facilitate the extra passengers.
It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan Railways has decided to operate five Eid Special Trains from various cities to facilitate passengers during the Eid-ul-Azha.
According to the details, the first special train had departed from Karachi Cantonment Railway Station for Lahore at 1:00 pm on June 2.
The second special train had left Quetta for Peshawar at 10:00 am on June 3.
On the same day, the third special train will depart from Lahore for Karachi at 5:00 pm while fourth special train will leave Karachi Cantonment for Rawalpindi at 7:30 pm.
The fifth and final Eid Special Train will depart from Karachi Cantonment for Lahore at 7:30 pm on June 4.

2-Pakistani inspire at China Huaneng Group’s 40th anniversary english speech contest

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):At the grand celebration of China Huaneng Group’s 40th anniversary, a landmark moment that commemorated four decades of innovation and global energy leadership, two compelling voices from Pakistan captured the hearts of audiences; Faran Tahir and Nouman Ali.
2-Pakistani inspire at China Huaneng Group’s 40th anniversary english speech contest
Both speakers, who have dedicated significant years of their careers to China Huaneng, delivered their speeches virtually from the Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant in Pakistan, and their words echoed powerfully across the large auditorium in China.
The speeches, presented during the English-Speaking Contest celebrating the company’s 40-year milestone, were not just performances, they were deeply personal journeys framed with gratitude, vision, and commitment. Through the use of a live online link, Faran and Nouman’s addresses were broadcasted on large screens to an engaged audience, including executives, employees, and fellow contestants from across various branches of the company. Their physical absence was more than compensated by the sincerity and strength of their stories, which transcended borders and created a memorable connection with everyone present.
Faran Tahir, Manager Planning at the 1320 MW Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant, shared a decade-long story that reflected not only professional growth but also a profound alignment with the values and mission of China Huaneng.
Dressed in a formal suit, Faran stood against the backdrop of the Sahiwal power plant and painted a vivid picture of his journey from the day he first joined to the present day, where he now stands as a key part of a landmark energy project in Pakistan.
His speech was structured with elegance, weaving personal anecdotes with strategic insights, and highlighting the powerful collaboration between China and Pakistan under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Audience members were visibly moved as Faran spoke about how the culture of excellence at Huaneng shaped his work ethic and how witnessing China’s dedication to sustainability and innovation inspired him to strive for greater heights.
His speech closed with a powerful statement of appreciation and vision: “This is not just a story of energy; it is a story of light, connection, and a shared future.”
Nouman Ali, with six years of experience at China Huaneng, followed with a speech that complemented Faran’s narrative beautifully.
Speaking with poise and passion, Nouman offered insights into the challenges and triumphs he encountered on his journey. Wearing a sharp dark suit and speaking confidently, Nouman took the audience through his early experiences as a young professional adapting to a multinational environment, and how the supportive atmosphere of Huaneng enabled him to grow both technically and personally.
His speech resonated particularly with younger members of the audience, as he spoke about resilience, continuous learning, and building bridges between nations through shared work.
Nouman’s speech was deeply appreciated for its sincerity and the clarity with which he outlined how China Huaneng’s approach to talent development and cross-cultural cooperation gave him the opportunity to become a better engineer and leader.
His closing remarks emphasized gratitude, but also hope: “As we move forward, let us remember energy is not only about power, but also about empowering people.”
The audience responded to both speeches with enthusiasm and admiration.
Judges, staff members, and fellow participants expressed appreciation for the clarity, depth, and emotional power of Faran and Nouman’s storytelling. Their speeches were noted for bringing an international flavor to the contest while also reinforcing the core values that China Huaneng upholds globally collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for sustainable development.
The significance of their participation lies not only in the content of their speeches but in what they represented: the unity of nations working together toward a brighter future.
The Sahiwal project, a flagship example of Sino-Pak cooperation, became the unifying backdrop of both speeches and a reminder of the tangible outcomes that result from global partnerships rooted in mutual respect and purpose.
In a world often divided by borders, Faran Tahir and Nouman Ali’s presence virtually delivered but deeply felt demonstrated that when stories are sincere and partnerships are strong, the impact knows no boundaries.
Their speeches added a meaningful and inspiring dimension to the 40th anniversary celebrations, leaving a lasting impression not only on the audience in China but also on all who continue to work for a future powered by cooperation and mutual growth.

Pervaiz Malik, President SOCAR discuss enhancing bilateral energy cooperation

ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) on Tuesday discussed enhancing bilateral energy cooperation and exploring new avenues for collaboration in the oil and gas sector in Baku.
According to a news release received here, the meeting focused on strengthening ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan in the energy domain.
Both sides exchanged views on mutual interests, including potential investments and joint ventures, to bolster energy security and sustainable development.
Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with global energy leaders like SOCAR.
He also informed about the government’s efforts to create an investor-friendly environment to encourage more investment in the country.
Rovshan Najaf commended Pakistan’s progress in the energy sector and expressed SOCAR’s interest in deepening engagement with Pakistani counterparts.

HEC’s month long initiative for Capacity Building of academic leaders concluded

ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):The Higher Education Commission (HEC’s) month-long capacity building initiative for the academic leaders and university management on university governance and leadership concluded.
Registrars, Deans, Controller of Examinations and Treasurers of as many as 47 universities from across the country took part in the programme. It was organised in collaboration with the British Council Pakistan, and Edinburgh Napier University (ENU), UK under the umbrella of Pakistan-UK Education Gateway, a programme.
The programme aims to enhance partnership between the higher education sectors of Pakistan and the UK. IMSciences Peshawar was the partner of ENU for this training programme.
Adviser Global Engagement Division HEC Mr Awais Ahmad was the chief guest of the closing ceremony, attended by Deputy Director British Council Ms Marya Rehman, Head of Global Online Edinburgh Napier University Dr Fawad Khaleel, Joint Director IMSciences Dr Atta ur Rahman and other notables. Colleagues from HEC and the British Council were also present on the occasion.
The certification programme spanned three weeks of online and one week of in-person sessions.

22 power pilferers held

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power pilferers
SARGODHA, Jun 03 (APP):Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) task teams nabbed 22 power pilferers during the last 24 hours.
According to the report issued here on Tuesday,the anti power theft task teams raided various sub divisional areas including Kot Fareed and nabbed 22 power thieves.They were–Haroon, Shakeel, Rasheed, Naveed, Nouman, Ibrahim, Ahmed, Aslam, Imran, Khalid, Kaleem, Kamran, Khaliqdad, Walidad, Faheem ,Farman and others.
The alleged nominated power thieves were involved in meter detecting, meter reversing and were causing the loss of over 1700 units on daily basis.

Path to Paradise: Around 1.6 mln pilgrims embark on sacred journey for Divine forgiveness, blessings

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By Raziq Ali Shah

MAKKAH AL MUKARRAMAH, Jun 03 (APP): As the curtain rises on Hajj 2025, the tranquil valley of Mina braces itself for an influx of around 1.6 million devout pilgrims—including over 115,000 Pakistanis—converging from all corners of the globe to embark on a spiritual journey on today night (Tuesday night) that culminates in the sacred celebration of Eid al-Azha.

For nearly a month, the faithful have gathered in Makkah, the land revered as Umm al-Qura (Mother of All Settlements)—the epitome of Divine planning—to engage in profound communion with the Creator, beseeching His forgiveness and invoking blessings upon their souls.

Path to Paradise: Around 1.6 mln pilgrims embark on sacred journey for Divine forgiveness, blessings

According to official reports, around 1.5 million pilgrims have already arrived in Saudi Arabia in anticipation of the Hajj, with more expected to join them. They will be joined by hundreds of thousands of Saudis and local residents as the pilgrimage officially commences on Wednesday.

Following last year’s heatwave, the Saudi authorities have already mobilized over 40 government agencies and 250,000 officials to double their efforts against heat strokes, the report further said. Similarly, shaded areas have been expanded by 50,000 square metres, and numerous cooling mist systems and water fountains have been installed to facilitate the guests of Allah Almighty at the holy land.

Pakistan has meticulously orchestrated arrangements to support its pilgrims through every facet of the journey—from the moment they arrive in Madinah and Makkah. From airport reception to transportation, accommodation, nourishment, medical care, guidance by Moavineen (Hajj Support Staff), and onward to the sacred sites (Mashair) and back home, every detail has been carefully managed.

The pilgrimage begins with the solemn act of entering ihram—a sacred state—upon crossing the outer boundaries of Makkah, known as Miqat, marking the commencement of the sacred journey.

On the eve of the 7th and 8th of Zilhaj, pilgrims proceed to Mina, spanning a distance of 8.1 kilometers, using various modes of transportation including trains and buses as they settle into the vast tent city. This year, the Saudi Authorities restricted movement of pilgrims on foot due to expected extreme heatwave condition and to protect pilgrims from heat related illness.

The 8th of Zilhaj, known as Tarwiyyah Day, finds pilgrims immersed in prayer and reflection in the serene precincts of Mina, preparing spiritually for the sacred ascent that lies ahead.
At dawn on the 9th of Zilhaj, pilgrims embark on the pivotal leg of the journey, proceeding to the plains of Arafat to partake in collective prayers and supplications, punctuated by the Khutbah (sermon) delivered from Masjid al-Nimra on Mount Arafat.

The Day of Arafah holds profound significance—hailed in Surah al-Ma’idah as the day Allah perfected His religion, completed His favor upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and ratified Islam as the ultimate way of life.
As the sun sets, pilgrims depart Arafat for Muzdalifah, where they offer Maghrib and Isha prayers—abbreviated to two rakats each—before collecting pebbles for the ritual of Rami over the coming days.

The 10th of Zilhaj, the Day of Sacrifice (Yawm al-Nahr), witnesses pilgrims returning to Mina from Muzdalifah, offering animal sacrifices, commencing the Rami ritual, and marking the global celebration of Eid al-Azha.

Over the next three days, pilgrims continue the Rami ritual, casting seven pebbles on the first day and 21 on each subsequent day, while also trimming or shaving their hair—symbolizing spiritual renewal and rebirth.

On the 12th of Zilhaj, the climax of the Hajj journey unfolds as pilgrims return to Makkah to perform the rites of Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. These rites, integral to the Hajj experience, follow the completion of key acts such as the symbolic stoning of the devil, the sacrificial offering, and hair trimming.

With the completion of Tawaf and Sa’i, pilgrims find a moment of respite, free from the restrictions of ihram. Yet their hearts remain tethered to the sanctity of the pilgrimage, prompting them to return to their tents in Mina to fulfill the remaining obligations of Hajj.

Before departing Makkah, pilgrims undertake the poignant ritual of the farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida), marking the conclusion of their spiritual odyssey. This solemn act includes completing seven laps around the Kaaba, offering two rakats of prayer, and drinking from the blessed waters of Zamzam. Unlike previous Tawaf rituals, no Sa’i or hair trimming is required after this final circumambulation, symbolizing the formal completion of their sacred pilgrimage.

Boxing trials of men, women concluded at AJK University

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Boxing Trials of Men & Women under Prime Minister Youth Programme (PMYP) were concluded yesterday at the Azad Jammu & Kashmir University, Muzaffarabad.
Chief Guest of the event, VC Azad Jammu & Kashmir University Muzaffarabad, Dr. Nadeem Haider Bukhari, while talking on the occasion, shared with the participants the importance of sports initiatives and announced plans to establish a multipurpose sports gymnasium.
Dr. Ali Malik, Dep. Sect. PMYP informed the participants about PMYP and its initiatives.
He also talked about the ongoing Boxing Talent Hunt and upcoming Cricket Talent Hunt, Phase-II of the Talent Hunt project, and E-Sports Championships and E-Sports Policy Development.
PMYP’s focal person for AJK, Fateh Mehmood Kiyani, emphasised the importance of staying updated with knowledge and opportunities for growth, highlighting the 4Es of PMYP.

Prominent Urdu poet Akhtar Hussain Jafri remembered

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Death anniversary of prominent Urdu poet Akhtar Hussain Jafri was observed  on Tuesday.
Born on August 15, 1932 in Hoshiarpur, Akhtar Hussain Jafri he migrated to Pakistan after the partition.
His poetry collections include Aina Khana and Jahan Darya Attarta Hai.
The Government of Pakistan awarded him the Presidential Medal for Excellence in 2002 in recognition of his literary services.
Akhtar Hussain Jafri died on June 3, 1992 in Lahore.

IRSA releases 242,921 cusecs water

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Tuesday released 242,921 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 187,416 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, the water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1472.92 feet which was 70.92 feet higher than dead level of 1402.00 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 91,700 cusecs and 156,600 cusecs respectively. The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1163.40 feet, which was 113.40 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 34,395 cusecs and 25,000 cusecs, respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa , Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 189,178, 153,583, 121,281 and 66,827 cusecs, respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 25,400 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 7438 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.

Security forces killed seven terrorists in two separate operations in Balochistan

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RAWALPINDI, Jun 3 (APP): Security forces killed seven terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan in two separate operations in Balochistan.

An intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted in general area Mach, Kachhi District on reported presence of Fitna al Hindustan terrorists, said an ISPR news release.

During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the Fitna al Hindustan terrorists’ location, and after an intense fire exchange, five Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell.

In another IBO conducted in general area Margand, Kalat District, a Fitna al Hindustan terrorist hideout was busted and two Fitna al Hindustan terrorists were successfully neutralized.

Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the killed Fitna al Hindustan terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities.

Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace Indian sponsored terrorism from the country, and reaffirm the nation’s unwavering resolve to bring the perpetrators of Indian sponsored terrorism and their facilitators to justice.

President, PM laud security forces for killing 7 terrorists in Balochistan

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday paid tribute to the security forces for killing seven terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan during operations in Machh and Morgand areas of Balochistan.

In their separate statements, the president and the prime minister lauded the professional capabilities of the security forces.

President Asif Ali Zardari also commended the security forces for eliminating nine terrorists of Indian proxy during intelligence-based actions.

“India, through its proxies, is spreading terrorism in Pakistan,” the president said and resolved to continue actions against terrorists till complete elimination.

PM Shehbaz Sharif said the entire nation stood shoulder to shoulder with the Pakistan armed forces to foil the nefarious designs of Fitna al Hindustan, which was involved in spreading terrorism in Balochistan under the patronage of India.

High Temperature Alert: Intending pilgrims advised to prepare for heatstroke risks

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By Raziq Ali Shah

MAKKAH-AL-MUKARRAMAH, Jun 03 (APP): Head of the Pakistan Hajj Medical Mission (PHMM) Col Dr Muhammad Shaheer Jamal on Tuesday advised Pakistani pilgrims to take all possible precautionary measures against heatstroke, especially during the Mashair days, due to the possible high heat-wave condition.

“We advise Pakistani pilgrims to avoid sun exposure, particularly during the five Hajj days in Mashair from 8–12 Zilhaj. Drink plenty of water preferably Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS),use umbrellas and spend maximum time in air-cooled or air-conditioned tents and shaded areas,” the PHMM head told APP here.

He said the PHMM is poised to deliver exceptional healthcare services and ensure the safety of Pakistani pilgrims undertaking the sacred journey in Saudi Arabia. However, “they will have to prepare themselves for the severe hot weather conditions.”

He said that the absence of sweating, hot and dry red skin, vomiting and nausea, extreme thirst, dizziness, and unconsciousness are signs and symptoms of heatstroke.

To avoid this, Col Shaheer said, “A person must avoid direct heat exposure, drink plenty of water and juices, use face masks and umbrellas, shower with cold water, avoid hot drinks… and must consult a doctor in an emergency if any of the heatstroke symptoms occur.”

Responding to a question, he said that currently no patient with heatstroke has visited the PHMM, but 9,563 cases of dehydration have been treated in the wards.

He said this year, over 115,000 Pakistanis are going to perform the religious obligation under both government and private Hajj schemes. Although the Pakistan Hajj Mission has made exemplary arrangements this year in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, it will still be a challenging time amid millions of people and extreme heat, so pilgrims must be prepared, he said.

Dr Shaheer said that with 306 dedicated team members and a substantial stock of medicines, the medical mission is committed to providing comprehensive healthcare services to Pakistani pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
He said doctors, nurses, and paramedics are performing duties in shifts around the clock to provide maximum care to the guests of Allah Almighty.

To another question, he said the PHMM has provided free medical treatment to a total of 78,421 intending pilgrims in Saudi Arabia since April 29. Around 171 serious patients have been referred to the Saudi German Hospital for advanced treatment. Out of these, 19 are still admitted while the rest have been discharged, he said.

Dr Shaheer said that 1,230,786 medicines have also been dispensed to pilgrims so far. Regarding diagnostic procedures, he said that 1,375 laboratory tests, 677 X-rays, 984 dental procedures, 144 ultrasounds, and 591 ECGs performed. Additionally, 886 minor surgical procedures have been conducted.

He said the mission team includes a wide range of specialists such as cardiologists, pulmonologists, dermatologists, radiologists, gynecologists, ENT specialists, dentists, and pathologists. For the first time, public health specialists and physiotherapists have also been included, enhancing the mission’s capacity to meet diverse medical needs, he said.
Pakistan has partnered with the internationally recognized Saudi German Hospital Group and established a Supervisory Model to ensure the quality and continuity of care.

He said healthcare facilities set up for the pilgrims include two fully operational hospitals—one in Makkah and one in Madinah—as well as 12 dispensaries (nine in Makkah, two in Madinah, and one in Jeddah).
He said the mission has also implemented a digital data system to manage patient records and plans to publish a research paper at the end of the Hajj season based on the medical trends observed.

NBP Exchange Rates

KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):Treasury Management Division of National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) on Tuesday the following exchange rates.
CURRENCY SYMBOL                           TT Selling           TT Buying
US DOLLAR USD                                  282.35                281.85
EURO EUR                                           322.61                322.04
JAPANESE YENJPY                                1.9739                1.9704
BRITISH POUND GBP                            381.84                381.16
SWISS FRANCCHF                                345.01                344.40
CANADIAN DOLLARCAD                        205.64                205.27
AUSTRALIAN DOLLARAUD                     182.66                182.33
SWEDISH KRONA SEK                            29.77                  29.71
NORWEGIAN KRONE NOK                       27.98                  27.93
DANISH KRONE DKK                              43.25                  43.17
NEWZEALAND DOLLAR* NZD                  169.87               169.57
SINGAPORE DOLLARSGD                       219.38                218.99
HONGKONG DOLLAR HKD                        36.00                  35.93
KOREAN WON*KRW                               0.2050                0.2047
CHINESE YUANCNY                                  39.23                 39.16
MALAYSIAN RINGGIT*MYR                       66.53                  66.41
THAI BAHT*THB                                        8.66                   8.64
U.A.EDIRHAMAED                                    77.42                  77.28
SAUDI RIYAL SAR                                     75.27                  75.14
QATAR RIYAL* QAR                                   77.72                  77.58
KUWAITI DINAR*KWD                             921.33                 919.70
CONVERSION RATE FOR FROZEN FCY DEPOSITS
USD 281.9401
GBP 381.9725
EUR 322.0038
JPY    1.9726
SETTLEMENT DATE: 05-06-2025

NBP-Rates-2-Karachi

KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):EXCHANGE RATES FOR CURRENCY NOTES
CURRENCY             SELLING         BUYING
USD                       283.76           280.72
GBP                       383.75           379.23
EUR                       324.22           320.42
JPY                        1.9838           1.9605
SAR                       75.65              74.76
AED                       77.28              76.87
LIBOR
LIBOR FOR CALCULATING INTEREST ON SPECIAL USD BONDS
LIBOR 1M 4.3197
LIBOR 3M 4.3195
LIBOR 6M 4.2517
US DOLLAR Indicative FBP Rates

Foreign exchange rates

KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):The Exchange Rates Committee of Financial Markets Association of Pakistan issued the following Exchange rates bulletin, here on Tuesday.
CONVERSION RATES FOR JUNE 03, 2025 FOR FOREIGN CURRENCY FOR FORWARD COVER FOR DEPOSITS (EXCLUDING FE 25 DEPOSITS)
SBP SETTLEMENT VALUE DATE JUNE 05, 2025
     USD      281.9401
     GBP      381.9725
     EUR      322.0038
     JPY        1.9726

Currency rates of NBP

KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):Following are the selling/buying rates of major currencies issued by the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), here on Tuesday.
CURRENCY                     SELLING          BUYING
USD                               283.76               280.72
GBP                               383.75               379.23
EUR                               324.22               320.42
JPY                                1.9838               1.9605
SAR                                75.65                 74.76
AED                                77.28                76.87

Pak HC, Canada Secretary of State discuss trade, investment cooperation

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OTTAWA, Jun 3 (APP): High Commissioner of Pakistan to Canada Muhammad Saleem on Tuesday called on Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development) in the Global Affairs Canada.

In the meeting, they discussed enhancing Pakistan-Canada relations and expanding opportunities for Canada’s ongoing development cooperation programs and building partnerships with Pakistan.

The high commissioner highlighted the potential for trade, investment and development of agriculture, energy, ICT, mining and mineral, and tourism sectors for mutual benefit.