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NA Speaker condoles demise of senior journalist’s relative

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ISLAMABAD, Jul 28 (APP): National Assembly, Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, on Monday expressed profound sorrow and grief over the passing of Chaudhry Muhammad Fayyaz, brother-in-law of senior journalist and Parliamentary Reporters Association member, Akram Abid Qureshi.
In his condolence message, the Speaker described the death as an irreparable loss to the bereaved family and extended heartfelt sympathies to them during this difficult time.
The Speaker expressed heartfelt sympathy for senior journalist Akram Abid Qureshi and his family, stating that he shares their sorrow in this moment of profound grief.
He prayed to Almighty Allah to elevate the departed Chaudhry Muhammad Fayyaz to the highest ranks of mercy and to grant strength and patience to the bereaved family in bearing this loss.

Tandojam Business Forum delegation meets SSP Hyderabad

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HYDERABAD, Jul 28 (APP):A delegation of the Tandojam Business Forum met with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Hyderabad Adeel Hussain Chandio, to discuss the concerns of the local business community.
The delegation included Forum President Pappu Rajput, Patron-in-Chief Asif Raza Khoso and other members.
According to a Hyderabad Police spokesperson, Pappu Rajput informed SSP about the challenges faced by traders in the city. He also assured the police of the business community’s full cooperation in maintaining law and order.
SSP Chandio acknowledged Tandojam’s importance due to its growing population. He stated that most of the criminal incidents reported in the area during the past month had been successfully traced, and suspects were arrested.
He further assured the business community that all legitimate concerns would be addressed promptly, and necessary steps would be taken to resolve their issues effectively.

Smog mitigation case: LHC seeks report on Yellow Train project

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LAHORE, Jul 28 (APP): The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday sought a detailed report from the Punjab government regarding the Yellow Train project in connection with a case on smog mitigation efforts.
The court directed the Advocate General Punjab to submit a comprehensive report on the Yellow Train project and ordered him to appear in person at the next hearing. The Director General of WASA was also summoned to personally provide updates on ongoing construction works.
Justice Shahid Karim heard multiple petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and others against ineffective measures to control smog.
During proceedings, the court ordered the restoration of service roads along Jail Road, Mall Road, and MM Alam Road within one month. The Traffic Engineering & Planning Agency (TEPA) was instructed to complete repair work within the stipulated timeframe.
WASA’s legal representative claimed that the agency’s tasks had been completed and that road reconstruction now fell under the jurisdiction of TEPA and the Lahore Development Authority (LDA). However, a member of the Judicial Water and Environmental Commission contradicted the claim, stating that WASA’s work remained incomplete and was still in progress.
The court also directed the Environment Department to submit a plan addressing heavy traffic and motorcycle emissions.
The court questioned the effectiveness of the traffic monitoring force, asking what practical measures were being implemented.
Inquiries were also made regarding the usage of e-bikes distributed under the government’s initiative. The court asked whether the bikes were actually in use or simply parked at homes.
The Environment Department’s counsel responded that a policy was being finalized and would soon be shared with both the Commission and the court.
Commenting on public transport projects, the court expressed hope that the government would handle the Canal Road project with greater sensitivity. The court ordered WASA to complete all ongoing construction works by Friday, warning of legal action in case of non-compliance. The hearing was adjourned until August 1.

ECP disqualifies three PTI lawmakers after anti-terror convictions

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ISLAMABAD, Jul 28 (APP): The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday disqualified three Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers after their conviction in the May 9 cases by the court.
According to the official notification, those disqualified include Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmed Khan Bachar, Member of National Assembly Mohammad Ahmed Chattha, and Senator Ejaz Chaudhry. All three lawmakers were found guilty and subsequently convicted in connection with the May 9 incidents.
“As a result, Mohammad Ahmed Chattha, Member of National Assembly from NA-66 (Wazirabad), and Malik Ahmed Khan Bachar, Member of Provincial Assembly from PP-87 (Mianwali-III), stand disqualified under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, in their respective capacities,” the notification stated.
It added that the notification declaring Chattha and Bachar as returned candidates has been recalled with immediate effect.

Seminar held on ‘Peace – Wings from Victory over Fascism to Community with Shared Future for Mankind’

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ISLAMABAD, Jul 28 (APP):A high-level seminar titled “Peace-Wings from the Victory over Fascism to a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind”, organized by the China Media Group (CMG) and Asian Institute of Eco-Civilization Research and Development (AIERD) here on Monday.
Seminar held on ‘Peace - Wings from Victory over Fascism to Community with Shared Future for Mankind'
The seminar was not only a means of highlighting China’s sacrifices against fascism in World War II, but also aimed to promote world peace, international partnership, and the idea of “a society with shared destiny.” The seminar was attended by prominent government figures, diplomats, think tank experts, intellectuals, and media representatives, who praised China’s leadership, foreign policy, and humanitarian global vision.
On this occasion, Minister of State for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Khel Das Kohistani, said in his address that the main pillars of China’s foreign policy were tolerance, partnership and mutual respect, adding that China was not only resisted fascism by becoming an iron wall but also remains a powerful voice against injustice, oppression and exploitation today.
He further said that Pak-China friendship was a high example of sincerity and mutual trust in the world.
Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam said the sacrifices made by China for global welfare will be written in golden words in history. “China has always promoted philanthropy, peace and justice. The concept of ‘shared society’ is a ray of hope for the present era, which based on the idea of connecting the world,” she added.
Former Defense Minister Lt. Gen. (retd) Naeem Khalid Lodhi emphasized, “China’s sacrifices in World War II are unforgettable. It is not only resisted against aggression but later showed the world community the path to peace, development and survival. China’s determination is still the guarantor of international stability.”
President Institute of Regional Studies, former Foreign Secretary Johar Saleem said that China’s role had become decisive in terms of global peace, prosperity and development. Its policies were leading the global system towards balance, transparency and partnership.
Former Pakistani Ambassador to China, Moinul Haque, while highlighting China’s peace-loving leadership, stated, “China and Pakistan are not only strategic partners but also ‘iron brothers’ linked by hearts. China’s brotherly attitude and determination to stand by Pakistan in every difficult time prove it to be a true friend.”
Shakeel Ahmed Ramey, CEO of the Asian Institute of Eco-Civilization, Research and Development, said people’s welfare, mutual cooperation and equitable development had always been at the core of China’s policies. China extended its hand of development and friendship without interfering in the sovereignty of any country globally, and also set exemplary examples on every front, from poverty alleviation to sustainable development.
CEO of Pakistan China Institute, Mustafa Haider Syed said that China had sacrificed for mankind in every era. Its leadership had always prioritized global peace and stability. If we examine different periods of history, he said that China’s humanitarian, balanced and long-term vision was evident at every stage.
The participants appreciated China’s partnership-based narrative and expressed their confidence in it. Many participants also recorded their feelings in writing on the “Comments Wall”, praising China’s global leadership, welfare initiatives and role in promoting peace.
This seminar was not just an intellectual meeting but an expression of determination that the new challenges facing the world, such as extremism, unilateralism and oppression, could only be confronted with mutual cooperation, partnership and a shared vision of peace.
This vision of China was not only commendable but also provides the foundation for a sustainable, just and peaceful world for humanity in the future.

DC reviews cervical cancer prevention campaign

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Sargodha, Jul 28 (APP):Deputy Commissioner Sargodha, Captain (R) Muhammad Wasim, on Monday presided over a meeting to review the upcoming cervical cancer vaccination campaign.
According to the official spokesperson here, the Punjab government, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), will launch a cervical cancer vaccination campaign from September 15 to 27, targeting girls aged 9-14 years in Punjab, Sindh, Azad Kashmir, and Islamabad.
The Deputy Commissioner directed all departments to complete preparations for the campaign within the given timeframe.
The Education Department was instructed to conduct awareness programs in schools and share accurate information through WhatsApp groups.
Captain (R) Muhammad Waseem appealed to the public to get their daughters vaccinated against cervical cancer, emphasizing that “a safe daughter today can become a safe mother tomorrow”.
The meeting was attended by CEO Health Dr Sara Safdar, DHO Dr. Shahzad Hussain Gill, District Surveillance Coordinator Dr. Tariq Hassan, Deputy District Health Officers, WHO representatives Dr. Adil Saleem and Dr. Nazish, CO Education Kulsoom Mansha, and representatives from the Private School Association, Rescue 1122, and police.

Governor celebrates President Zardari’s birthday

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RAWALPINDI, Jul 28 (APP):A ceremony to celebrate the 70th birthday of President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, was held at Governor’s Annexe in Rawalpindi.
Governor Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, attended the event as the chief guest, joined by former Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf as a special guest.
A large number of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders and workers participated in the event. Governor Punjab, along with the former prime minister, cut the birthday cake for President Zardari, and special prayers were offered for his health.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan stated that the current democratic system is functioning due to President Asif Ali Zardari’s political foresight. He credited President Zardari for revitalizing the PPP, noting that after the martyrdom of Benazir Bhutto, who entrusted the party’s leadership to Zardari, he steered the party through challenging times with the slogan “Pakistan Khappay.” The Governor emphasized that the PPP symbolizes the federation, with strong representation in national and provincial assemblies.
He added that the party is now led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the heir to the martyrs, who he predicted would become Pakistan’s next Prime Minister. He expressed pride in being a dedicated PPP worker and highlighted that China’s support during the war with India was largely due to Zardari’s 14 visits to China during his first term.
Former Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf, in his address, praised President Zardari for upholding the flag of a united Pakistan and leading the party through difficult times. He described Zardari as the “king of reconciliation,” noting that even his critics now admire his reconciliatory policies. Ashraf underscored that President Zardari’s sacrifices for democracy are unforgettable.

Need stressed to take steps to prevent hepatitis

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BAHAWALPUR, Jul 28 (APP):The health experts emphasized the need to take measures to prevent hepatitis besides making educational institutions hepatitis-free.
They said this at a seminar that was organized by the Medical and Health Division of the Islamia University of Bahawalpur on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kamran, Dr. Syed Tanveer Hussain, Director Health Bahawalpur, Prof. Dr. Qazi Masroor Ali, former Head of Department, Quaid-e-Azam Medical College Bahawalpur, Dr. Muhammad Usman Cheema, Chief Medical Officer, other faculty members and employees participated in the seminar.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor, Prof-Dr. Muhammad Kamran said that health is blessing and health should actually be the first priority of every human being. “It is on the basis of health that a person earns his livelihood,” he said, adding, therefore, a person could do all the work only if he is healthy.
He further said that the Islamia University of Bahawalpur has already been working towards a hepatitis-free campus and all possible steps are being taken to ensure the health of all employees and protect them from hepatitis.
Prof-Dr. Qazi Masroor Ali emphasized on changing social behavior to prevent and control the spread of hepatitis. He said, “We all would have to live our lives according to the hygiene principles of health so that hepatitis and liver diseases could be averted. There are facilities for the treatment of hepatitis at the national level,” adding that for which vaccines, safe injections, regular medical check-ups are necessary.
Dr. Tanveer Hussain said that according to the World Health Organization, Pakistan and Nigeria are the most affected countries in the world and 12 million people in Pakistan were affected by hepatitis B and C.
Dr. Muhammad Usman Cheema said that there is a hepatitis clinic at the Islamia University of Bahawalpur where teachers, employees and students are screened and treated, adding that the anti-hepatitis campaign has been going on regularly since 2020. On this occasion, Principal Medical Officer Dr. Maleeha Arif gave a special presentation on the prevention and causes of hepatitis. Dr. Saba Tahir, Women Medical Officer also spoke.

Dr. Furqan Hameed’s book ‘Recep Tayyip Erdogan – The Tiger of the Islamic World’ launched

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ISLAMABAD, Jul 28 (APP): National Language Promotion Department (NLPD), in collaboration with the Türkiye Azerbaijan Pakistan Friendship Forum (TAPF) and the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS), hosted a book launch ceremony for Dr. Furqan Hameed’s new book titled “Recep Tayyip Erdogan-The Tiger of Islamic World” here on Monday.
Esteemed guests included Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Ambassador of Turkiye to Pakistan Dr Irfan Neziroglu, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan Yerzhan Kistafin, Deputy Head of Mission for the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Pakistan  Zafar Akhmedov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda to Pakistan, Fatou Harerimana, Dr Farhat Asif, the President of IPDS among others.
In her address, Dr. Farhat Asif, President of IPDS, said that the launch of “Recep Tayyip Erdogan-The Tiger of Islamic World”, authored by their esteemed friend and scholar Dr. Furqan Hameed, was not just a literary event but an occasion to reflect on the values of courage, leadership, unity, and vision—values that President Erdogan has come to symbolize for millions around the world.
She thanked the Director General of NLPD and all collaborators for making the event successful, and expressed her gratitude to the distinguished guests and participants for their presence.
In his address, Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, Director General of NLPD, said that the purpose of the ceremony was to acknowledge and encourage the efforts of a person who has worked to strengthen the ties between these two brotherly nations through his columns and writings.
“This recognition will help further solidify these ties. It was an important literary, academic, and cultural event which proved to be very successful,” he added proudly. He concluded by thanking all the honored guests and attendees for their active participation.
In his remarks, Dr. Furqan Hameed, Head of Urdu Service at TRT (Turkish Radio and Television Corporation), columnist, writer, and senior journalist, said that his book is a tribute to President Erdogan’s leadership and constructive approach.
He shared that Erdogan began his journey as the Mayor of Istanbul, transforming the city through modernization. Dr. Hameed added that Erdogan holds deep affection for Pakistan and often recites the poetry of Allama Iqbal, his favorite poet, at his public gatherings. He considers Pakistan his second home after Türkiye.
“This book will help further strengthen the bond between Türkiye and Pakistan,” Dr. Furqan Hameed said, thanking all the distinguished guests for attending the launch.
At the conclusion of the event, he presented copies of the book to Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar, the Ambassador of Türkiye, and other esteemed guests.

Punjab Police issue 4.876m driving licenses in 2025

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LAHORE, Jul 28 (APP):Punjab Police issued around 4.876 million driving licenses so far in 2025 as part of its ongoing efforts to facilitate the public and ensure strict enforcement of traffic laws across the province.
The spokesperson for Punjab Police informed that 7.3 million traffic violations were recorded during the same period, with fines totaling 4.52 billion. Penalties were issued for 250,000 vehicles emitting excessive smoke, 22,276 vehicles impounded across police stations, and fitness certificates of 214 violators were confiscated, added spokesperson.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, stated that the campaign against traffic law violators will continue with full force. He added that 127 driving training schools operated by Punjab Police are providing training to citizens to promote safe driving practices.
The IGP emphasised that effective measures are being taken to ensure recovery of fines from traffic violators and uphold the rule of law on roads.