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International Minerals Investment conference to be milestone for country’s mineral development: Bilal

By
Ali Ali
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0
QUETTA, Apr 15 (APP):Vice Chairman of the Balochistan Board of Investment, Bilal Khan Kakar on Tuesday said that the upcoming International Minerals Investment Conference in Islamabad and the participation of delegations from around the world would serve as a milestone for the development of Pakistan’s mineral sector.
In a statement, he emphasized that Pakistan, particularly Balochistan, is rich in untapped mineral resources, many of which are yet to be explored. He stressed the need to highlight these resources on a global stage, as Balochistan’s minerals have the potential to transform not just Pakistan but the entire region.
He noted that the international conference would pave the way for foreign investment in the minerals sector. Calling Balochistan a “land of untapped treasures,” he described the province as home to majestic mountains and vast deserts filled with hidden natural wealth, waiting to be unearthed.from copper and gold to marble and chromite, Balochistan’s mining sector promises immense wealth and progress. With some of the world’s largest mineral reserves including copper, gold, lead, zinc, iron, and chromite.
He said that Balochistan stands as a land of opportunities for investors seeking a brighter future through the development of these natural resources. Regions like Reko Diq and Saindak have already drawn global attention for their significant mineral output, while countless unexplored sites across the province remain to be discovered, he said.

CM Maryam to unveil historic relief package for farmers

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a meeting on the Kisan Package, during which several important decisions were taken to support wheat farmers across the province.
Addressing the participants, the CM said, “In line with the commitment made during the wheat harvesting season to protect farmers’ interests and ensure they suffer no losses, a comprehensive and historic Kisan Package will be formally announced on Wednesday.”
She added that the upcoming package would be unparalleled in Punjab’s history, offering substantial benefits to wheat farmers. “This initiative will ensure that farmers receive the full value of their hard work. Measures will also be implemented to prevent the sale of flour at inflated prices, thereby safeguarding both producers and consumers,” she stated.
CM Maryam Nawaz acknowledged the dedication of Punjab’s farmers, saying, “Our farmer brothers toiled day and night and achieved a record wheat yield in response to my appeal. Punjab has successfully met its wheat cultivation targets solely due to their tireless efforts.”
She assured that the interests of both the farming community and the general public would be protected under this landmark initiative.

CM condoles death of Malik Imtiaz Bherth

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the demise of Malik Imtiaz Bherth, uncle of Provincial Minister Malik Sohaib Bherth.
In her message, the chief minister extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul’s eternal peace, as well as strength and patience for the family to bear this irreparable loss.

NTDC organizes seminar on Project Management & Dispute Resolution

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):National Transmission & Despatch Company (NTDC) here Tuesday hosted a seminar on “Project Management & Dispute Resolution”.
The event featured distinguished international expert Dr. Romano Allione from Italy, who delivered a comprehensive presentation on effective project management strategies and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Dr. Romano Allione has served as Project Manager at Tarbela Dam Project and as a Chartered Member of DRBF & FIDIC Adjudication.
NTDC BoD Chairman Dr. Fiaz Ahmed Chaudhry and Managing Director Engr. Muhammad Waseem Younas were also present. The seminar was attended by large number of NTDC engineers including General Managers and Chief Engineers.
During his presentation, Dr. Romano Allione shared his experiences while working on Tarbela Dam and other projects across the world and provided valuable insights about the challenges faced during the construction of these projects.
He highlighted the importance of effective project management, ownership and timely decision making, particularly in managing timeline and resources. He also emphasized the importance of proactive approach to avoid disputes and explained the contractual clauses related to dispute adjudication.
On the occasion, Dr. Fiaz Ahmed Chaudhry expressed his views for better project management and said that proper home-work and scoping of the project is imperative for its timely completion. He commended Dr. Romano’s expertise and encouraged participants to incorporate the presented methodologies into their project management practices.
Managing Director Engr. Muhammad Waseem Younas also appreciated Dr. Romano’s services and said that NTDC officers should benefit from his experiences.
The company’s General Manager (HR) Engr. Sohail Mumtaz Bajwa delivered a vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to Dr. Romano Allione for sharing his experiences. The lecture was followed by an interactive question answer session, where Dr. Romano Allione answered the queries of the participants.
At the end, a momentous shield was also presented to Dr. Romano Allione in recognition of his contributions. Project Management specialist Engr. Moeen-ud-Din Sheikh also attended the seminar.

CNS inaugurates newly construct block at PNS Darmaan Jah

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf on Tuesday inaugurated a newly constructed block at Pakistan Navy Hospital PNS Darmaan Jah in Ormara.
The newly operationalized block is equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities, including a modern Operation Theatre (OT) complex, High Dependency Unit (HDU), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Gynaecology Complex, Paediatrics Department, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), said a news release issued by Directorate General Public Relations (Pak Navy).
These additions mark a significant advancement in strengthening the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
“PNS Darmaan Jah is the only healthcare facility located along the coastal highway between Karachi and Pasni, serving as a lifeline for the residents of Ormara and adjoining areas by providing quality medical services’ it further said,.
While addressing the inauguration ceremony, Admiral Naveed Ashraf commended the hospital administration for their dedication and reaffirmed Pakistan Navy’s unwavering commitment to the uplift of coastal communities.
He emphasized that the hospital will continue to provide modern and accessible healthcare facilities to the underprivileged local population.
Pakistan Navy continues to uphold its commitment to the well-being of coastal communities by expanding advanced healthcare facilities along the coastal belt of Balochistan.

Islamabad being developed as pilot smart city under digital transformation drive

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, on Tuesday said that Islamabad is being developed as a pilot smart city as part of the government’s broader digital transformation initiative.
Speaking about the ongoing progress of the City Islamabad mobile application, she said the Ministry has partnered with PSL franchise Islamabad United to promote both the app and the smart city vision.
She said the initiative was launched under the direction of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and that significant progress had been made over the past year to turn this vision into reality.
The City Islamabad App, she said, now offers over 150 digital services, including access to excise and taxation services, utility bill payments, property records, emergency contacts, and public space information. These services are now just a tap away, removing the need for citizens to visit multiple offices or wait in long queues for basic tasks such as bill payments, degree attestations, or vehicle registration.
“Our goal is to build a digital twin of Islamabad that will strengthen governance, promote transparency, and enhance administrative efficiency,” said Shaza Fatima. “We want to digitally empower every citizen and envision similar ease of access across all cities in the near future.”
She welcomed the collaboration with Islamabad United, calling it a strategic move to expand public outreach. “While residents of Islamabad will benefit directly, this initiative serves as a model for the rest of Pakistan. We hope citizens across the country begin to demand and adopt such digital services.”
Appreciating Islamabad United’s role, she expressed confidence that just as the team had proven itself as defending champions of the PSL, it would also help champion the cause of a digitally empowered capital.
Ali Naqvi, owner of Islamabad United, expressed pride in supporting the government’s smart city initiative. “Islamabad United has always stood for positive change. Partnering with the Ministry of IT to support the City Islamabad App is part of our continued commitment to meaningful societal transformation,” he said.
Naqvi said that technology is now essential in all aspects of life—from communication to governance—and that digital tools must be embraced for progress.
He said that the biggest hurdle in any tech initiative is adoption. “People start using technology once they experience its value—just like with smartphones or computers. Similarly, once the City Islamabad app gains wider adoption, it will benefit both the public and the government.”
He reaffirmed Islamabad United’s commitment to supporting the Ministry over the next six months in building awareness and boosting public engagement with the app. “We will use our platform to help advance the government’s vision and promote the widespread adoption of this smart city initiative,” he added.

Daraz announces launch of 2025 edition future leadership programme

By
Ali Ali
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0
KARACHI, Apr 15 (APP):Daraz has announced the launch of the 2025 edition of its Daraz Future Leaders Programme (DFLP, the “Programme”), a group-wide management trainee initiative aimed at nurturing high-potential talent across Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal.
DFLP is set to establish Daraz’s commitment to nurturing local talents and building a thriving e-commerce ecosystem in the region.The 15-month rotational Programme, set to commence in July 2025, is designed to provide selected trainees with hands-on experience through structured rotations across key business functions.
With guidance from senior leadership, DFLP participants will engage with local and group-level strategists, gaining exposure to various departments across the markets.
DFLP 2025 is open to passionate and driven individuals who have graduated within the past year, with a strong foundation in academic excellence and analytical skills.
The application window will be open on 21 April and remain open for 14 days. Applicants can apply online through the Daraz Career page.

No one to be allowed to hinder Pakistan’s progress: COAS

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Tuesday reiterated that no one would be allowed to create obstacles in country’s progress and prosperity.

Addressing at the First Overseas Pakistanis Convention here, the COAS said, “’Whoever stands in the way of Pakistan’s progress, we will remove that obstacle together. As long as the courageous people of this country stand with the Pakistan Army, no one can harm Pakistan.”

He categorically said Pakistan Army could overcome any challenge with the support of the people. “Do Pakistan’s enemies really believe that a handful of terrorists can decide the fate of Pakistan?” the COAS questioned.

He warned that even ten generations of terrorists could not harm Balochistan or Pakistan. “Balochistan is the jewel of Pakistan’s destiny and the pride of our nation,” he added.

Gen Asim said, “Pakistan is on path of progress and development – the question is not when Pakistan will progress, but rather how fast it will progress”. Allah Almighty blessed Pakistan with abundant resources, for which we must remain thankful at all times, he said.

Praising the overseas Pakistanis, he said, “Those who talk about brain drain should understand that this is not brain drain, but rather brain gain”. “We want to take Pakistan to the place dreamed by Quaid-e-Azam,” he said.

The COAS said, “We do not fear unfavorable circumstances — as Muslims and as Pakistanis, we have never bowed to difficulties, nor will we ever do so. Pakistani nation has immense respect and honor for our martyrs. Their sacrifices are eternal, and we will never let their legacy be forgotten.”

The COAS reiterated, “Kashmir was, is, and always will be Pakistan’s jugular vein. The hearts of Pakistanis always beat in solidarity with the Muslims of Gaza, he said.

Talking about the overseas Pakistanis, Gen Asim said they represented Pakistan in comity of nation and their emotions have been quite praiseworthy for the country.

KP body discuss framework relating to mining, mineral sector

By
Ali Ali
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0
PESHAWAR, Apr 15 (APP):Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Standing Committee on Mines and Minerals chaired by Ikram Ullah Ghazi here Tuesday discussed various aspects of existing legal framework relating to mineral and mining sector.
The meeting was also attended by members including Ahmad Karim Kundi, Hameed-ur-Rehman, Mehbood Sher, Sheela Bano, Muhammad Yamin, Ajab Gul, Shafiullah Jan and Director Mineral Department.
On the meeting was briefed about lease grant and pending cases of lease allotment. The committee directed to expedite work on the framework and to take steps for facilitation of stakeholders.
The meeting also decided to close or change sites of projects that are creating pollution in adjacent areas.
It was decided that mineral resources of the province would be utilized in a transparent manner aiming development and progress of the province.

KP initiates “Ehsaas Apna Ghar Scheme”

By
Ali Ali
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0
PESHAWAR, Apr 15 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government (KP) has launched the “Ehsaas Apna Ghar Scheme” aimed at providing interest-free and Shariah-compliant loans to low-income residents of the province.
According to provincial authorities on Tuesday, the scheme is designed to support the poor and lower-middle class in building, repairing, or upgrading their own homes.
The people who already owned a land or wish to extend their current houses are eligible to receive loans of up to Rs. 1.5 million.
The loan can be repaid in easy installments over a period of seven years, with a maximum monthly payment of Rs. 18,000. Only those earning less than Rs. 100,000 per month are eligible to apply.

Minister Arora visits Children’s Hospital, orders swift justice in Hafizabad poisonous sweets tragedy

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora visited the Children’s Hospital Lahore on Tuesday, where he met and inquired about the health of the innocent children brought from Hafizabad, who were allegedly hospitalised in critical condition after consuming suspected poisonous sweets.
According to police officials, eight children were brought to DHQ Hospital Hafizabad in critical condition last night. Unfortunately, three of them could not survive, while the remaining five were shifted to Children’s Hospital Lahore for better medical care.
The minister personally inquired about the children’s condition and directed the hospital MS to ensure the provision of the best possible medical treatment. The hospital administration briefed the minister, stating that the children’s condition is improving and all necessary medical facilities are being provided to them.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragic incident, Arora demanded a detailed report from the DPO Hafizabad. He issued strict instructions for the immediate arrest of those involved in the incident and called for exemplary punishment according to the law. The minister emphasised, “The protection of innocent children must be ensured at all costs. Such heart-wrenching incidents are intolerable, and the culprits will be brought to justice.” Furthermore, the Department of Minority Affairs is closely monitoring the situation and will extend all possible support to the affected families, he added.

PFA discards 900kg expired food items in Khanewal

By
Ali Ali
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0
PFA
MULTAN, Apr 15 (APP):In a crackdown against food safety violations, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) conducted multiple raids in Khanewal, seizing over 900 kilograms of expired food products and lodged cases against two illegal papad (snack) manufacturing units involved in counterfeiting.
During the operations, two factory owners were booked for producing counterfeit snacks under fake packaging of various brands. The factories were operating without mandatory food licenses.  PFA also confiscated 40 kilograms of oil and spices, along with machinery and fake packaging materials.
In another raid, a wholesale point in Ataa town was fined Rs 100,000 after a large quantity of expired snacks was recovered from the premises.
Director General of Punjab Food Authority, Muhammad Asim Javed, stated that the authority was committed to eliminate food fraud and protecting public health.
He urged the masses to identify the expired food items to the PFA helpline 1223.

VC AIOU urges students to set goals for achieving success with high GPA

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice Chancellor, Allama Iqbal Open University(AIOU) has said the students who aspire to be among the top five during their academic journey often achieve prominent positions in professional life as well.
He urged the students that they should always aim to be part of the best group, understand the academic system and available facilities, set clear goals, and work diligently to achieve success with a high GPA.
He was addressing the orientation session organized for newly enrolled students of BS (Science) programs under the Spring 2025 semester in the face-to-face mode of education.
The orientation session was organized by the Directorate of Student Advisory and Counseling Services.
The main objective of the session was to introduce new students to the university’s academic system, facilities, and resources so that they can confidently begin their educational journey.
Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Dr. Sher Muhammad, highlighted modern scientific trends, the importance of research, and the utilization of the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories.
Director Student Advisory, Syed Ghulam Kazim Ali, informed the students about the guidance system available at the university, co-curricular activities, and student support facilities.
Other speakers at the event included Director General of Regional Services Dr. Malik Tauqeer Ahmad Khan, Director Admissions Syed Zia-ul-Hussain Naqvi, Controller of Examinations Mian Muhammad Riaz Hussain, Director ICT Arshad Manzoor, and Treasurer Riaz Hussain.
They provided detailed information regarding admissions, the examination system, various aspects of the student life cycle including CMS (Campus  Management System) and LMS (Learning Management System), the university’s website, fee payment methods, the role of regional centers, and student support services.
Registrar Raja Umar Younis, in his address, stated, “Admission to the university is not just the beginning of an academic journey, but also a realization of a new responsibility.” He urged the students to reflect the university’s values, culture, and traditions through their behavior and conduct.
At the end of the orientation session, students were given a tour of various departments of the university, which they appreciated and expressed their happiness at becoming part of the institution.

Admin takes preventive measures for livestock diseases ahead of Eid-ul-Adha

By
Ali Ali
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0
ABBOTTABAD, Apr 15 (APP):In line with its commitment to public health and safety, the Abbottabad District Administration on Tuesday has launched comprehensive measures to safeguard sacrificial animals and the public from the outbreak of livestock-related diseases ahead of Eid-ul-Adha.
A key component of this initiative is vaccination campaign being carried out by specialized teams from the Livestock Department. These teams are actively vaccinating sacrificial animals across the district to prevent the spread of Lumpy Skin Disease and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), both of which pose serious risks to animal and human health during the high-traffic livestock trading period.
According to officials, the vaccination drive is being carried out in both urban and rural areas, with a focus on early identification and control of infected livestock.
The teams are not only administering vaccines but also educating animal owners on symptoms, prevention techniques, and the importance of maintaining hygiene in cattle sheds and enclosures.
Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad emphasized the importance of public cooperation in making the campaign successful.
“We urge all citizens to allow our teams access to their animals and follow veterinary and hygiene guidelines. Protecting both animal and human health is our top priority this Eid,” he said.
In addition, special surveillance measures have been implemented at entry and exit points of the district to monitor the movement of animals and prevent the transportation of potentially infected livestock.
These coordinated efforts reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy Eid-ul-Adha for the people of Abbottabad.

Islamabad sees 20% crime drop in first four months of 2025

By
Ali Ali
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0
ICT
ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Islamabad Capital Police’s vigorous operations against criminal elements have led to a 20 percent drop in overall crime, including a 19 percent decline in robberies, 74 percent in burglaries, and 17 percent in murders during the first four months of 2025, as compared to the same period in 2024.
A police spokesperson told APP on Tuesday that the Islamabad Police launched a coordinated and consistent strategy under the special direction of the IG Rizvi to eliminate crime across the district, continuing a daily crackdown on robbers, bandits, car and motorcycle thieves, drug dealers, and their facilitators.
He said there has been a 20 percent reduction in serious and other crimes compared to the same period in 2024, including a 19 percent drop in robberies, a 12 percent decline in theft, and a 74 percent decrease in burglary incidents.
He said the rate of vehicle and motorcycle thefts fell by 22 percent, while murders decreased by 17 percent compared to the same period last year, with a total of 600 fewer incidents reported in the federal capital.
He said special police teams have also intensified operations against drug smuggling networks and facilitators, and daily operations are being carried out to dismantle such criminal infrastructure.
He said IGP Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi has instructed all officers to crack down vigorously on drug dens, suppliers, and buyers, reaffirming the department’s commitment to cleanse society of this menace and ensure a safe future for the youth.
He said protecting the lives and property of citizens remains the top priority of Islamabad Police.
“We have taken an oath to protect the lives and property of the public while donning this uniform. In the course of fulfilling this oath, many of our officers have been injured and have attained the great status of Ghazi,” the IG Rizvi said.
IG urged the citizens to continue cooperating with the police in their mission to build a peaceful and crime-free society.

CPEC is game changer for Pakistan’s future: Governor Kundi

By
Ali Ali
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0
PESHAWAR, Apr 15 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a transformative project that holds the key to Pakistan’s economic growth, regional stability, and public prosperity.
Speaking at the International CPEC Seminar held at the Governor House Peshawar, the Governor emphasized that CPEC is vital for reshaping Pakistan’s destiny and fostering national development.
The event was organized by Pak-China Window and attended by a distinguished group including Iranian Consul General in Peshawar Ali Banafsha Khwa, former ambassadors Naghmana Hashmi and Sohail Mahmood, CPNE provincial president Tahir Farooq, educationist Dr. Khalid Khan, business leaders, investors, media representatives, and students.
Various speakers including Tahir Farooq, Zahid Latif, Dr. Khalid Khan, and others shed light on the importance of CPEC and expectations tied to its second phase. Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed also addressed the seminar via a video message, reiterating CPEC’s strategic significance for Pakistan, especially for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Governor Kundi pointed out that while the Havelian-Dera Ismail Khan road is the only completed project in KP under CPEC so far, progress on connecting Balochistan to DI. Khan in the second phase remains sluggish.
“Like other provinces, KP should ensure its representatives are part of official visits to China to secure long-term projects for the province,” he added.
The Governor also lauded former President Asif Ali Zardari’s pivotal role in initiating CPEC through his diplomatic outreach to China.
He welcomed the Rashakai Economic Zone but voiced concerns about the feasibility of the Daraban Economic Zone, saying that attracting investment to that area may be challenging.
The Governor praised the organizers, particularly Amjad Aziz Malik, for arranging the seminar and reiterated that the doors of the Governor House are always open for events that contribute to the province’s progress. The event concluded with Governor Kundi distributing shields to the seminar’s speakers.

BUMHS starts 20-day training for faculty members

By
Ali Ali
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0
QUETTA, Apr 15 (APP):Bolan University of Medical and Health Sciences (BUMHS) is conducting a 20-day training program for faculty members under the National Outreach Program (NOP) for faculty of higher education, sponsored by the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE), Higher Education Commission (HEC), Islamabad.
The training program, which commenced on April 14, aims to enhance the teaching, research, and administrative capabilities of faculty members.
Experts from Karachi, Islamabad, and Quetta will deliver sessions on various topics.
The opening ceremony was attended by Prof. Dr. Syed Abdul Rauf Shah, representing the Vice Chancellor of BUMHS, and Prof. Dr. Tahir Abbas Zaidi, Program Coordinator, NAHE-HEC, via Zoom link. Mr. Sohail Raza Mangi, Deputy Director NAHE, was also present on the occasion.
The chief guest and guest of honor addressed the participants, emphasizing that the training’s objective is not just to acquire knowledge but to practically apply the learned skills in their professional lives.
He urged the participants to focus on adopting these skills to bring about a positive change in their institutions.
Faculty members from BUMHS and its constituent medical and nursing colleges across Balochistan are participating in the training program.
This initiative is expected to improve the quality of education and research in the region, aligning with the goals of NAHE and HEC to promote excellence in higher education.

Court reserves verdict on APP’s Rs 1.24 bln fraud case registration plea

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): The District & Sessions Court of Islamabad on Tuesday reserved its decision on whether to order the registration of a criminal case in a financial scandal involving over Rs1.24 billion at the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).

The case highlights delays in action by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) despite repeated requests for an inquiry.

On today, Additional District and Sessions Judge Sheikh Sohail Ahmed heard arguments on a petition filed by the APP’s legal team seeking the registration of a criminal case against several individuals accused of embezzlement.

During the hearing, APP legal adviser Nazir Sultan and lawyer Khurram Ibrahim Baig and others appeared before the court. They stated that the APP, being a government institution, had suffered a major financial loss due to internal corruption.

According to the petitioners, the embezzlement case has been pending with the FIA for the past six months, but no formal investigation has started.

They requested the court to direct the FIA to register a case against those responsible.

FIA official Chaudhry Shafiq informed the court that investigating officer Malik Sajid had submitted a reply and assured the court that the inquiry would be completed within two weeks.

Judge Sohail Ahmed noted that the APP management had submitted evidence including salary slips, audit reports, and bank records to support their claim. He observed that the submitted documents clearly showed irregularities.

Lawyers representing the accused also appeared before the court. Zulfiqar Abbas Naqvi represented Arshad Majeed Chaudhry and Ghawas Khan, while Chaudhry Naeem Ali Gujjar represented Qasim Gujjar. When the judge asked about the legal representative for another accused, Moazzam Javed, the court was informed that his counsel, Taimur Aslam, was engaged in proceedings at the Supreme Court and could not attend.

Responding with mild sarcasm, the judge remarked that he would have arranged a red carpet if he had been informed in advance about the lawyer’s unavailability.

The judge also questioned whether the FIA had sent any questionnaires to the fact-finding committee formed by APP. In response, APP legal officer Rafaqat Shah stated that the agency had submitted its records to the FIA five times but received no progress on registering a case. The court then reserved its decision and adjourned the hearing.

According to the petition, the APP administration formed a fact-finding committee on June 24, 2024, after reports surfaced regarding serious financial misconduct. The committee investigated alleged embezzlement involving Rs1.24 billion. It discovered large-scale irregularities, especially in funds related to employee expenses and provident fund accounts.

The findings, later submitted to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, recommended that the case be handed over to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) or the FIA for further legal action.

The report revealed misuse of authority, unapproved financial transactions, and violations of financial regulations. It claimed that financial records were deliberately kept away from APP officials and that certain bank staff were complicit in damaging the national treasury.

The petition also highlighted missing financial documents, including cash books, salary and pension credit sheets, and master ledgers for the years 2021 to 2023. These records, the report alleged, were intentionally destroyed by former officials.

The fact-finding report stated that large amounts of money were transferred into personal bank accounts of APP officials. Evidence from bank statements confirmed these transfers. In one case, an individual reportedly moved Rs4.7 million to a personal account, while another transferred Rs15.4 million from the ERE account.

The petition added that Rs910.4 million was embezzled from the provident fund account, with the money being funneled into various personal accounts without approval. The committee identified 16 individuals involved in the financial misconduct.

It recommended that the authorities investigate these suspects thoroughly, send the case to NAB or the FIA, and examine their bank accounts and assets for potential recovery of stolen funds.

To prevent similar incidents in the future, the report also suggested stricter financial oversight for key positions and the introduction of a proper reporting and review system.

Despite these findings and the availability of documentary proof, the petition stated that the FIA has not initiated legal action, forcing the APP administration to approach the court for registration of a formal case.

The court included the FIA Director General, investigating officers, and other relevant individuals as respondents in the petition.

Pakistan, Kazakhstan vow to deepen cultural cooperation in Arts, Heritage & Film

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Pakistan and Kazakhstan have pledged to strengthen their cultural cooperation, particularly in the fields of arts, heritage, and film, through collaborative ventures and joint initiatives.
The commitment was made during a meeting between the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan, Yerzhan Kistafin, and Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, along with Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Huzaifa Rehman.
The meeting took place on Tuesday at the National Heritage and Culture Division.
Secretary for National Heritage and Culture, Asad Ur Rehman Gilani, was also present at the meeting.
The discussions focused on broadening bilateral ties through enhanced cooperation in cultural sectors, including arts, heritage preservation, film, and people-to-people exchanges.
Both sides emphasized the significance of fostering cultural diplomacy to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen the historical and brotherly relationship between the two nations.
Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting regional cooperation through cultural initiatives, expressing appreciation for the longstanding and friendly relations with Kazakhstan.
Minister of State, Huzaifa Rehman highlighted the region’s rich cultural legacy and natural beauty, noting the vast potential for cultural enrichment and collaborative projects.
Ambassador Kistafin thanked the hosts for their warm reception and reiterated Kazakhstan’s keen interest in future partnerships, particularly in the areas of visual arts, museums, cultural preservation, and cinema.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to forge deeper cultural ties and explore new avenues of cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.

NA speaker stresses diplomats’ role in shaping Pakistan’s global image

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq emphasised on Tuesday that projecting Pakistan’s positive and true global image should be the top priority for diplomats, as it is essential for the country’s progress, stability, and dignity.
Addressing the graduating officers at the Foreign Service Academy in Islamabad, he described the young diplomats as the future custodians of Pakistan’s image and its true ambassadors on the global stage.
The nation takes immense pride in their dedication and accomplishments.
He noted that Pakistan continues to face formidable challenges, including terrorism and climate change, which demand vigilance and commitment from all sectors, especially its foreign service.
Highlighting the regional security situation, the NA Speaker expressed concern over the illicit use of abandoned weaponry from Afghanistan, which has now fallen into the hands of terrorist elements posing serious threats to Pakistan’s peace and stability.
The Speaker reaffirmed that sustainable and effective resolutions to global and regional conflicts can only be achieved through meaningful dialogue and diplomacy. However, he stressed that no compromise would be made on Pakistan’s sovereignty and terrorists would be dealt with firmly and decisively.
The Speaker National Assembly urged international human rights organizations and advocates to take notice of the grave human rights violations being committed in Gaza and Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
He also highlighted the critical role of parliamentary diplomacy in shaping foreign relations, noting that as Speaker, he has consistently worked to portray Pakistan’s positive and pragmatic image on international platforms.
Reflecting on the political landscape from 2018 to 2021, he described the period as one of the bleakest chapters of political victimisation in the country’s history. He noted that, he remained committed to upholding parliamentary norms by issuing production orders for opposition lawmakers and extending invitations to the opposition for dialogue.
Addressing the concerns of overseas Pakistanis, the Speaker emphasized that resolving the issues faced by the expatriate community must remain a foremost priority for Pakistan’s diplomatic missions, as they represent a key pillar of the nation’s economy and global stature.
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