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Talented youth real strength of nation: minister

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, Nov 30 (APP): Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman said on Sunday that talented and dynamic youth represents real strength of the nation.
Speaking as guest of honour here at Alumni Awards 2025 ceremony, organised by the Beaconhouse Old Students Society, he added that such young individuals are not only excelling in their respective professional domains but also contributing positively to society through social welfare, creative innovation.and public service.
He added that talented youths accomplishments are a testament to the fact that when the standard of education is high, the future of a country becomes brighter on its own
Provincial Minister presented awards to Beaconhouse graduates who have demonstrated exceptional achievements across various fields. The ceremony was well-attended by a large number of alumni, students, teachers and distinguished guests.
He said that under the leadership of Punjab government is committed to bring effective reforms in the education sector and provide a modern, futuristic academic environment. He expressed confidence that with the continued collaboration of teachers, parents and educational institutions, Punjab will not only achieve greater progress in the field of education but also see its young professionals opening new avenues of opportunity.

KP CM approves Digital Payments Act 2025

By
Asif Jalal
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0
PESHAWAR, Nov 30 (APP): Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mohammad Suhail Afridi, has approved the Digital Payments Act 2025, which was slated for enforcement following the approval of provincial cabinet.
According to a statement issued by CM Secretariat on Sunday, KP is the first province in Pakistan to introduce a legal framework specifically for digital economy.
This Act is anticipated to be a major milestone, significantly advancing financial inclusion, transparency, and economic modernization across the province.
Through the initiative, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa aims to become a model for a cashless economy, offering guidance to federal government and other provinces.
The implementation will include providing Public Wi-Fi and other digital services in markets for the convenience of citizens, ensuring easy on-boarding and enforcement at the district level, and integrating financial and digital literacy into the educational curriculum.

PPP’s Foundation Day reflects commitment to Bhutto’s mission: Governor Kundi

By
NNPS Desk
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PESHAWAR, Nov 30 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday said that holding the Pakistan Peoples Party’s Foundation Day ceremony at the Governor House was a step toward fulfilling the mission of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony organized by the Peoples Doctors Forum at the Governor House Peshawar.

Governor Kundi said that PPP’s role in Pakistan’s democratic and constitutional history would always be remembered with golden words.

He said that under the leadership of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the country was given a unanimous Constitution, while Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto made historic strides for the restoration and strengthening of democracy.

He added that her martyrdom was followed by President Asif Ali Zardari’s historic slogan of ‘Pakistan Khappay’, which played a key role in stabilizing the country.

He said former Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani empowered the provinces through landmark reforms, and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is now advancing Pakistan towards stronger constitutional and democratic footing. As Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari served Pakistan with distinction and effectively presented Pakistan’s case globally, especially during Indian aggression, he added.

Governor Kundi highlighted PPP’s major initiatives, including the Benazir Income Support Programme, which helped vulnerable women gain financial independence, reinstatement of politically victimised employees, creation of new job opportunities, and significant advancements in missile technology.

Discussing the security situation, he said the province faces multiple challenges due to its geographical position bordering Afghanistan on one side and dealing with TTP threats on the other.

From the Islamabad Complex attack and Dera Police Training School incident to the FC Headquarters assault and the Cadet College attack in Waziristan, security forces have demonstrated exemplary courage, he added. Supporting the armed forces for peace is a collective responsibility, he stressed.

He emphasised that peace and development are only possible when the provincial government, federal government, and security forces work together. KP is rich in resources, and all stakeholders must play their role in its progress.

Governor Kundi urged PPP workers to end internal differences, carry Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s message to every household, and work towards making him the next Prime Minister of Pakistan.

He reaffirmed that PPP would continue playing its historic role in safeguarding and strengthening the country.

The speakers at the ceremony paid tribute to Governor Faisal Karim Kundi for organizing the Foundation Day event at the Governor House.

They said that despite difficult circumstances in the province, Governor Kundi’s efforts for the state, democracy and the party’s mission were commendable. They added that PPP workers across the country appreciate his leadership and express gratitude to the party leadership for his appointment.

3,000 EV charging stations planned by 2030

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): Pakistan has set an ambitious target to deploy 3,000 electric vehicle charging stations nationwide between 2025 and 2030, marking a major step toward sustainable mobility.

According to an official document shared with APP on Sunday, the government has earmarked 240 charging stations for the current fiscal year. These will be established through private sector participation, with oversight shared among the Ministry of Industries and Production, the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA), the Ministry of Energy (Power Division), NEPRA, and distribution companies.

The initiative is part of the Draft New Energy Vehicle Policy, prepared by the Ministry of Industries and Production, which aims to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility across the country.

Since the notification of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI) and Battery Swapping Stations (BSS) Regulations on October 24, 2024, under NEECA’s mandate, the federal government has already issued 72 licenses for charging infrastructure.

KP Govt prioritizing national interest, development: Shafi Jan

By
Asif Jalal
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0
PESHAWAR, Nov 30 (APP): Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Information and Public Relations, Shafi Jan, has said that national interest and public welfare remain the top priorities of the provincial government.
Speaking at a ceremony at Saint Joseph’s Convent School and College in Kohat on Sunday, he said that the provincial government had imposed an education and health emergency to improve service delivery in the two key sectors.
He stated that reforms and development initiatives were being undertaken on a priority basis to provide immediate relief to citizens.
He said that Chief Minister Sohail Afridi was taking “effective steps” to ensure good governance across the province.
Highlighting the government’s education initiatives, Jan said that scholarships had been announced for female students from Grade 6 to Grade 12. He added that the government would bear the complete educational expenses of orphan students who had passed the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) and secured admission to medical colleges, terming it a reflection of the government’s education-friendly approach.
Shafi Jan said that the provincial government was also promoting renewable energy, adding that schools and hospitals were being shifted to solar power to address load-shedding issues.
He announced that a solar energy system would be installed at the host institution.
The special assistant praised the contribution of Saint Joseph’s Convent School and College, describing it as an exemplary institution in the field of education.
Regarding public issues in Kohat and other districts, he said that the government was taking measures to address problems on a priority basis.
He lauded the confidence shown by voters in Imran Khan by electing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf candidates, adding that women had played an important role in the party’s success, a contribution that would be remembered with respect.

ICT Police bust 3 dacoits of snatching gang; weapons, motorcycle recovered

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have arrested three members of a snatcher gang involved in multiple street-crime incidents in the Khanna area, recovering weapons and a motorcycle used in the offences.
An official told APP on Sunday that the Khanna police team apprehended the accused, identified as Arif, Israr and Ishrat—during a targeted operation. He said weapons, ammunition and a motorcycle used in criminal acts were seized from their possession. Cases against the accused were already registered at the police station.
He said during preliminary interrogation, the accused confessed to their involvement in several snatching and robbery incidents in Khanna and adjoining areas. Further investigation is underway.
Following special directives from Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, ICT Police have intensified a crackdown across the federal capital against groups involved in dacoity, snatching and other serious crimes, he added.
The operation, he said, has led to a noticeable reduction in major criminal activities. The IGP has instructed all officers to continue strict action against elements depriving citizens of their belongings.

Gilani highlights strong Pakistan–Italy ties at Italian Cuisine Week Gala

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, here on Sunday attended the Italian Cuisine Week Gala Dinner hosted by the Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan, Marilina Armellin and Domenico Pelloni.
The event brought together distinguished guests, diplomats and members of the international community to celebrate Italy’s renowned culinary heritage and strengthen cultural ties.
In his address, the Chairman Senate expressed deep appreciation to the Italian Ambassador and Pelloni for their gracious hospitality and for organizing a memorable evening that showcased the elegance and richness of Italian cuisine. He noted that the celebration went beyond culinary delight—serving as a meaningful platform to honour friendship, culture and the longstanding bonds between Pakistan and Italy.
Gilani highlighted the warm and cooperative relationship shared by the two countries, acknowledging Italy’s significant role as an important economic partner in Europe. He emphasized the steady expansion of bilateral cooperation in diverse sectors including trade, investment, education, culture, and parliamentary diplomacy.
He also paid tribute to the Pakistani diaspora in Italy, recognizing their positive contributions and their important role in strengthening people-to-people connections between the two nations.
He noted that diplomacy thrived not only through official engagements but also through cultural exchanges—particularly food, art, music, and shared experiences. In this context, he appreciated Italiany Cuisine Week as a meaningful avenue of “culinary diplomacy,” which fosters understanding and brings people together.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to further institutional cooperation, Chairman Gilani underscored the Senate’s readiness to enhance parliamentary engagement with the Italian Senate and other state institutions. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration would deepen democratic cooperation, economic partnership, and cultural understanding.
In conclusion, Chairman Senate Gilani thanked the hosts once again for their warm hospitality and congratulated the Embassy of Italy for successfully organizing an evening that beautifully celebrated Italian culture and strengthened the spirit of friendship between the two countries.

Punjab plans to impart textile skills training to 2,500 rural women

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): The Punjab Women Development Department has selected around 2,500 rural women for hands-on training in various textile-related fields, with the government committed to ensuring employment opportunities for the trained women within their own cities.
Briefing members of the Punjab Assembly, Additional Secretary of the Women Development Department (WDD) Faiza Ahsan said that under the ‘She Threads’ program, women will be linked with different textile industries where they will receive practical, on-site training, said a press release issued here on Sunday.
She said that once training is completed, immediate efforts will be made to secure their employment in the same locations. She further noted that the Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) is the executing partner for the initiative.
According to information available with Wealth Pakistan, WDD Secretary Dr Usman Ali told the participants that the most important outcome—described as the program’s core “punch line”—is to ensure the employability of the 2,500 women. The program focuses on developing textile-sector skills, and the selected women will receive on-premises training in around 29 textile trades.
Parliamentary Secretary for Women Development Salma Saadia said that Punjab chief minister wanted women to acquire diverse skills and contribute to the province’s key export industry.
She emphasized that She Threads differs from the Garment City program of the Industry Department, which focused mainly on training machine operators. The WDD program teaches more than 24 trades, including dyeing, stitching, quality control, and floor management. It targets low- and middle-income women who might otherwise rely on domestic labor. To help them participate, the program offers pick-and-drop services and financial incentives to support household expenses during the training period, she explained. She said that job security at the training locations would be ensured immediately upon completion of training.
Dr. Ali noted that the project was at the past conceptual stage and all agreements had been finalized. Five locations; Faisalabad, Multan, Sheikhupura, Sialkot and Lahore have been selected for contract signing, and classes are scheduled to begin on December 10, he said and added that contracts were awarded through a competitive bidding process, with major industry players such as Interloop, Kohinoor, Asgard Lahore, Shahkam and Master among the winners.
He also noted that the financial outlay for She Threads program for the current fiscal year (FY 2025–26) was Rs150 million. Due to the limited allocation and strong industry demand, each industry requesting 600 trained women, the department plans to conduct a third-party evaluation by the end of the fiscal year, he said and added that the WDD intended to seek a higher allocation for the program in the next Annual Development Program (ADP).

Commerce Minister arrives in Cairo for 4th D-8 trade ministers council

By
NNPS Desk
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0

Cairo , Nov 30 (APP): Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has arrived in Cairo to participate in the Fourth Meeting of the D-8 Trade Ministers Council.
He was received at Cairo International Airport by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Egypt, H.E. Aamir Shouket, along with senior officials from the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said a release issued here on Sunday.
During the visit, the minister will take part in the D-8 Ministerial Council’s opening, plenary and closing sessions, alongside a series of bilateral engagements with his counterparts from member countries.
His programme also includes participation in official activities arranged for the delegations, as well as scheduled visits to key cultural and landmark sites, including the Grand Egyptian Museum and Abdeen Palace.

Egyptian FM’s visit contributed to fortifying bilateral ties: FO

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): The visit of Foreign Minister of Egypt Dr. Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty contributed to further strengthening the longstanding Pakistan–Egypt relationship and provided an important opportunity to deepen cooperation across all areas of mutual interest, said Foreign Office spokesperson on Sunday.

Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to continue working together for regional peace, stability and shared prosperity.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt undertook the official visit to Pakistan from 29–30 November, 2025 at the invitation of Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister.

During the visit, Dr Badr Abdelatty held a tête-à-tête meeting followed by delegation-level talks with the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides reviewed full spectrum of Pakistan–Egypt bilateral relations including political, economic, trade and defence relations; cultural and educational cooperation; and collaboration in the health sector, including Egypt’s support to Pakistan’s national Hepatitis C elimination efforts.

To promote business and economic cooperation, both sides agreed on concrete steps to facilitate private-sector partnerships and expand commercial linkages. The two sides decided to identify 250 Pakistani business houses in first phase, which would be enhanced to 500 in second phase for visa facilitation. They also decided to establish Pakistan–Egypt Business Council to institutionalize private-sector cooperation and promote mutually beneficial commercial partnerships. The two sides also decided to establish the Pakistan–Egypt Business Forum to advance economic collaboration. It will convene in the second quarter of 2026, on the sidelines of the meeting of bilateral Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC). JMC would be co-chaired by the two Foreign Ministers. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to activate bilateral institutional mechanisms and to hold senior official level meeting in the first quarter of 2026.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister also announced the decision to double the number of scholarships offered by Al-Azhar University for Pakistani students.

The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister and the Egyptian Foreign Minister also exchanged views on regional and international developments. Pakistan appreciated Egypt’s pivotal diplomatic and humanitarian role in Gaza, including its efforts toward ceasefire arrangements and facilitation of humanitarian assistance. The two sides reiterated their principled support for the establishment of an independent, sovereign, and contiguous State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

Dr Badr Abdelatty also called on President Asif Ali Zardari. The President underscored the historic ties between Pakistan and Egypt and conveyed Pakistan’s desire to elevate the partnership across all domains. Views were exchanged on matters of bilateral cooperation, regional stability, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The President appreciated Egypt’s leadership and constructive diplomatic engagement on issues of regional importance.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister also held a meeting with the Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, at General Headquarters. Discussions focused on defence and security cooperation, military exchanges, training collaborations, and regional peace and stability. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of continued high-level engagement between the armed forces of the two countries.

Dr Badr Abdelatty also interacted with members of Pakistan’s business community during his engagements in Islamabad, highlighting the potential for expanding trade and investment partnerships.

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