1st international “Infant Mental Conference” on mental health :

SSP Operations reviews police performance

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 15 (APP):A meeting was held at Police Lines Headquarters under the chairmanship of SSP Operations, Kashif Zulfiqar. The meeting was attended by DSP Admin, DSP CRO, Crime Mapping officers from police stations, and CRO staff.

SSP Operations reviewed the performance of the officers and issued necessary instructions. DSP CRO briefed the officers on the use of the Crime Mapping Application to enhance efficiency in crime tracking and investigation.

SSP Operations Kashif Zulfiqar emphasized that police stations must maintain complete CRO records including suspects’ photographs, profiles, history sheets, and fingerprints.

He said that effective crime mapping helps in promptly tracing criminals, while solid evidence, thorough investigation, and proper case follow-up ensure that offenders are brought to justice.

He further highlighted that protecting the lives and property of citizens is the top priority, and all available resources are being utilized to ensure public safety.

Punjab govt collects record Rs754bn taxes through ‘e-Pay Punjab’

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LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):The Punjab government has collected a record tax revenue of over rs754 billion through ‘e-Pay Punjab’, a digital tax payment system — developed by Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) in collaboration with the Punjab Finance Department.

The system has also surpassed 83 million digital transactions. This was revealed during a progress review meeting presided over by PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf here on Tuesday. The participants were apprised that citizens can conveniently pay 87 types of taxes and levies of 18 different departments from the comforts of their homes using the e-Pay Punjab platform. The growing trust and convenience offered by the system is evident from the fact that over 5.6 million users have downloaded the e-Pay Punjab mobile application to date.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Faisal Yousaf stated, “e-Pay Punjab has emerged as an effective and citizen-centric solution, not only by increasing transparency and revenue collection but also by sparing the public from unnecessary visits to government offices and protecting them from middlemen. We are continuously working to expand the platform’s services to make government payments even more accessible and efficient.”

BOI complete 100 reforms under PRMI for improving regulatory framework

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):The Board of Investment (BOI) has completed 100 reforms out of the 168 proposed reforms under Regulatory Reforms and Guillotine Initiatives (PRMI).

To promote Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in Pakistan, the Board of Investment is implementing Pakistan Regulatory Modernization Initiative (PRMI), said official documents issued here by the federal government.

This initiative is aimed at improving the regulatory framework in the country at all levels, Federal Provincial and Municipal to reduce the compliance burden on private sector.

The Board of Investment (BOI), “Ultra-Fast Reform Package”, developed a comprehensive reform package containing 100 reforms across 24 regulatory departments at the Federal Government level, aiming to streamline processes and enhance the business environment.

The BOI, successfully mapped the entire regulatory landscape for Registrations, Licenses, Certifications, and Other Permits (RLCOs), improving transparency and accessibility for businesses, the data said.

The institution initiated the drafting process of the AsaanKarobar Bill-2025, aimed at simplifying business procedures and promoting ease of doing business.

Pak-China B2B investment forum organized a successful B2B Investment Forum connecting 107 Pakistani companies with over 250 Chinese companies across 13 sectors, fostering cross-border business collaborations.

The BOI conducted a nationwide survey of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to identify opportunities for development and attract greater investment.

According to the data issued, the Board of Investment (BOI) has played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s investment climate through strategic policy and legislative initiatives aimed at attracting both domestic and foreign investments.

The BOI has worked to streamline investment processes by reducing regulatory bottlenecks, implementing the ease of doing business reforms, and promoting the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to attract foreign investments.

Legislative frameworks have been revised to provide investment protection guarantees to foreign investors, particularly from countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Hungary, thereby enhancing confidence in the investment environment, the data said.

In alignment with its mandate, the BOI has actively facilitated public-private partnerships and established an investment promotion platform. This includes formulating policies for faster approval processes, simplifying registration and licensing procedures, and offering incentives like tax exemptions for businesses in SEZs.

According to the official documents through comprehensive surveys and the mapping of regulatory processes, the BOI has identified key gaps in infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. This has led to the creation of an 18-point action plan aimed at improving transparency, reducing bureaucratic delays, and making it easier for businesses to operate in Pakistan. These reforms have contributed to a more investor-friendly regulatory environment.

The BOI has pursued policies designed to attract FDI by creating an enabling environment for international companies, with a focus on industrial growth, technology transfer, and sustainable development. The development of SEZs and partnerships with countries like China has been a key area of focus.

The BOI has pushed for legislative changes to provide a conducive environment for SEZs, facilitating infrastructure development, tax incentives, and facilitating international investments in these zones.

These policy and legislative developments have collectively aimed to improve Pakistan’s investment landscape, stimulate economic growth, and foster global economic partnerships.

The Board of Investment (BOI) has actively engaged the public and private sectors through various initiatives to promote transparency, collaboration, and investor confidence.

This includes organizing business-to-business (B2B) forums, conferences, and workshops to facilitate direct interactions between local and foreign investors.

Additionally, the BOI has worked to enhance public awareness of investment opportunities by establishing information platforms and offering personalized support services to potential investors.

These efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and dynamic investment environment, making it easier for businesses to navigate regulatory frameworks and access available resources.

Dhamial police bust gambling gang, arrest four

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 15 (APP):In a raid against illegal gambling, Dhamial Police arrested four suspects.

According to the details four gamblers Aamir, Basheer, Waseem, and Sohail were caught playing cards for money. Seized items include Rs. 10,000.0 cash, 2 mobile phones, a watch, and playing cards.

SP Saddar emphasized that gambling fuels social evils, and such operations will continue.

Senate offers Fateha for terror victims, martyred Palestinians

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):The Senate on Tuesday offered Fateha Khwani for several individuals who recently passed away, including victims of terrorism and those martyred in Palestine.

During the session, prayers were offered for the late Senator Taj Haider, former Senator Professor Khurshid Ahmad, the mother of the Chief of Army Staff, and the eight Pakistani citizens martyred in a recent incident in Iran. Prayers were also held for the victims of the Jaffer Express tragedy and all those who lost their lives in terrorist attacks across the country.

In a special gesture of solidarity, the House also prayed for the Palestinians martyred in the ongoing violence in Gaza.

The Fateha Khwani was led by Maulana Abdul Wasay.

Sino-Pak Digital Trade Academy launched to boost vocational skills

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BEIJING, April 15 (APP):A new chapter in China-Pakistan education cooperation began on Tuesday with the signing of the Digital Trade Silk Road Academy Agreement.

Five institutions – Zhejiang Technical Institute of Economics, Hangzhou, Zhung Lan Trading Company, Lahore, Punjab Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA), Lahore, Government Technical Training Institute Gulberg, Lahore, and ITMC Technology, Beijing – established a framework to enhance technical and vocational training in Pakistan growing digital economy, CEN reported.

This educational initiative builds on the existing economic cooperation between the two countries, with Chinese expertise in e-commerce and digital trade helping to modernize Pakistan’s technical education system. China has maintained its position as the world’s largest online retail market for 12 consecutive years, with e-commerce consumption emerging as a new growth driver. In 2024, China online retail sales grew by 7.2%, while the Silk Road E-commerce initiative has created new opportunities for international cooperation, expanding its partner countries to 33.

By sharing China’s latest Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) advancements and international educational resources, the establishment of Centers of Excellence for Digital Skills development will strengthen vocational training and technical education in Pakistan.

The Digital Trade Silk Road Academy will operate under the TEVTA at the Government Technical Training Institute Gulberg, Lahore, initially offering programs in cross-border e-commerce before expanding to modern logistics and broader e-commerce disciplines. This initiative directly supports Pakistan national Digital Pakistan strategy, which prioritizes equipping youth with competitive digital skills for the modern workforce.

UAE President, Prime Minister of North Macedonia discuss bilateral cooperation

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ABU DHABI, April 15 (WAM/APP) : UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Hristijan Mickoski, Prime Minister of the Republic of North Macedonia, who is on a working visit to the UAE.
During their meeting at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, he welcomed the Prime Minister’s visit, expressing hope that it would contribute to advancing joint efforts to strengthen economic, trade and investment ties between the two countries. The Prime Minister conveyed the greetings of Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, President of North Macedonia, along with her best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the UAE. In turn, he asked the Prime Minister to convey his greetings to the North Macedonian President along with his wishes for further growth and development for her country and its people.
The two sides explored opportunities to expand cooperation, particularly in key areas such as the economy, investment, development, renewable energy, sustainability, infrastructure, tourism and other priority sectors for both nations. His Highness and the Prime Minister also discussed a number of regional and international issues of mutual interest. He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its development partnerships with the countries of the Balkans, and to supporting all efforts that promote peace and stability in the region. He underscored the UAE’s longstanding approach of advocating peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, in support of development, stability and prosperity for all.
Prime Minister Mickoski expressed his hope that the coming period would witness increased cooperation between the two countries for the benefit of their peoples. He affirmed that the UAE and North Macedonia share ambitions to advance their bilateral collaboration, and highlighted the wide range of opportunities for cooperation across multiple fields that could support both nations’ goals for sustainable development.
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dr Hristijan Mickoski witnessed the announcement of two memoranda of understanding — the first concerning economic cooperation between the two countries, and the second between the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia.
The meeting and announcement ceremony were attended by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs; . Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President; Suhail bin Mohammed Faraj Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure; Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet; Faisal Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Bannai, Advisor to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs; Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the President’s Office for Strategic Affairs and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office; Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi); and a number of senior officials. In attendance also were members of the delegation accompanying the Prime Minister of North Macedonia.

PU takes action against 39 more students for violating discipline

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LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):The Punjab University administration has taken action against another 39 students for violating discipline as well as law and handed down various punishments.

According to the PU spokesperson, the administration has expelled 10 students, including Mujtaba Hussain, Muhammad Anees, Zain Shaukat from the Institute of Education and Research, Muneeb-ur-Rehman, Muhammad Arif from the Department of Gender Studies, Shamraiz Mumtaz from the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies, Arsalan Aslam, Muhammad Ammar Khan from the Law College, Muhammad Israr from the Department of Philosophy and Muhammad Ahmed Akhtar from the Department of Political Science. He said that Shahzeb Khan Barki, Wajid Noor Khan, Muhammad Kashif Nawaz from the Department of Gender Studies, Atif Nawaz from the Law College, Muhammad Salar Ahmed Gondal from the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies and Muhammad Sami Ullah from the Department of Social Work were rusticated for one academic year and fined.

He said that the administration also sentenced 19 students from different departments of the university to a probationary period of three months, while four students were fined Rs 20,000 to Rs50,000. He said that the disciplinary committee acquitted six students as the allegations were not proven against them. The spokesperson said that on the instructions of Vice Chancellor Dr Muhammad Ali, indiscriminate action will continue against students guilty of disciplinary violations while the University Disciplinary Committee is working hard to evaluate disciplinary cases purely on merit and on priority.

Kahuta Police arrest murder in dispute case

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 15 (APP):Kahuta Police apprehended Suleman Nazeer, who allegedly shot and killed Saeed Ahmed over a domestic dispute last month.

According to the details, after fleeing the scene, the suspect was tracked down using human intelligence and arrested.

SP Saddar, Muhammad Nabeel Khokhar assured that the accused will be prosecuted with solid evidence to ensure maximum punishment.

Upgraded Fitch rating reflects world confidence in Pakistan’s economy: PM

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday welcomed the upgradation of economic rating of Pakistan by global credit rating agency Fitch, calling it a reflection of economic progress and world community’s confidence in the national economy.

The prime minister, in a statement, said that the upgradation of Pakistan’s credit rating from CCC+ to B- by Fitch was highly encouraging.

“Fitch has declared Pakistan’s economy as stable. The improvement of economic rating by international institutions reflects economic progress and the global community’s confidence in the country’s economy,” he remarked.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said that the incumbent government was working tirelessly to bring further improvement in the national economy.

Khalid Hussain Magsi and BAP leaders call for constructive dialogue on Balochistan issues

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Khalid Hussain Magsi, alongside leaders of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) during a press conference on Tuesday emphasized that Balochistan’s challenges cannot be resolved through sit-ins and street protests.

Highlighting the need for political maturity, Magsi said, “While political activity is a continuous process, the state must not be seen as weak. Constructive engagement is the way forward.”

Expressing deep concern over the current situation in Balochistan, the minister urged Balochistan National Party (BNP) chief Akhtar Mengal to return to the negotiating table. “Our brothers must prioritize the welfare of the people and reconsider their strategy of protest,” he said.

Magsi reiterated that both the provincial government and state institutions are committed to addressing public grievances while maintaining law and order. “Politics will go on, but the state will fulfill its responsibilities,” he assured.

He also revealed that Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani recently met with Akhtar Mengal, and that he himself had also reached out.

Referring to the fluid nature of political developments, Magsi encouraged Mengal to review his decisions in light of the changing circumstances.

Scottish delegation visits PU

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LAHORE, Apr 15 (APP):A three-member delegation from Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland, led by Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof Lynn Kilbride, visited Punjab University and met with Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali.

The delegation included Dean of Grays School of Art and Acting Dean of Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment Dr Dan Allen, Dean of School of Computing and Engineering Technology Dr John Isaacs and Country Representative for Robert Gordon University Hassan Khan.

Dean Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Prof Dr Shahzad Sarwar, Director External Linkages Prof Dr Yaamina Salman, Director Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology Prof Dr Syed Nadir Hussain, Principal College of Art and Design Prof Dr Samina Nasim, Director Postgraduate Research Centre for Creative Arts Dr Naela Aamir and Prof Dr Ahmad Bilal from Department of Graphic Design were present. During the meeting, both sides discussed potential collaborations in student and faculty exchange programmes and explore collaborative research opportunities.

PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali expressed his enthusiasm for strengthening the partnership with Robert Gordon University and highlighted the significance of internationalisation in higher education. He emphasised the need for greater mobility of students and faculty to broaden horizons and promote innovation. The delegates expressed their keen interest in expanding cooperation with PU and assured their support towards achieving the shared goals in future.

SECP notifies amendments to NBFC Regulations, 2008

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has notified the final amendments to the Non-Banking Finance Companies and Notified Entities Regulations, 2008.

These reforms primarily focus on revising the Total Expense Regime (TER) for mutual funds and pension funds while introducing significant measures to enhance the Shariah compliance framework within the mutual fund industry, said a press release issued here on Tuesday.

As part of the amendments, the existing Total Expense Ratio (TER) capping regime will be replaced with caps on management fees, effective July 1, 2025. This transition period provides Asset Management Companies (AMCs) and Pension Fund Managers (PFMs) with adequate time to adjust their business strategies. To improve transparency and aid investor decision-making, AMCs and PFMs must also provide detailed TER disclosures for mutual funds and pension funds.

To strengthen Shariah compliance in the industry, the amendments introduce a relaxation for obtaining a Shariah Compliance Certificate for Collective Investment Schemes (CIS) that share a similar structure and strategy with an existing Shariah-compliant scheme. Additionally, all CIS lacking a Shariah Compliance Certificate must obtain one by September 30, 2025. Furthermore, an Annual Shariah Advisor’s Report will now be included in the financial statements distributed to unit holders and Voluntary Pension System (VPS) participants.

The amendments were finalized following extensive stakeholder consultations, including engagements with AMCs, PFMs, and the Mutual Funds Association of Pakistan (MUFAP). Through this collaborative process, consensus was reached on amendments aimed at promoting transparency, cost efficiency, and alignment with international best practices in the mutual fund and pension fund sectors.

Exchange 106 tower, a landmark of China-Malaysia BRI cooperation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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BEIJING, April 15 (BRNN/APP) : In 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He pointed out that Belt and Road cooperation was proposed by China, but its benefits and opportunities are for the world to share.
China and Malaysia are important developing countries and emerging economies in the Asia-Pacific. The two countries are neighbors with a millennium-old friendship, friends connected by heart, and partners for win-win cooperation.
Since the launch of BRI, China and Malaysia have achieved fruitful results in Belt and Road cooperation.
Recently, a People’s Daily Online reporter visited Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to explore the on-site construction story of the Exchange 106 tower, one of the landmark projects under BRI cooperation between China and Malaysia.

German Diplomat highlights Governance and Educational Prospects at CUI

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):A distinguished session at COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) featured Mr. Jan Gerald Krausser, Head of Communications, Culture, and Protocol at the German Embassy, who engaged students from diverse academic backgrounds in an insightful dialogue on governance and higher education opportunities in Germany.

Addressing students from departments including International Relations, Economics, Media and Communications, Management Sciences, and Meteorology, Mr. Krausser offered a comparative analysis of governance systems, emphasizing the significance of blue- and white-collar workers in Germany’s economic landscape.

He also highlighted Germany’s commitment to vocational and technical education.

Encouraging students to explore academic opportunities in Germany, he stressed the importance of utilizing the resources of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which has a dedicated office in Islamabad. Mr. Krausser also shared information about potential scholarships and funding opportunities available through German political foundations and universities.

The event commenced with remarks by Mr. Arif Awan, Senior Program Officer at CUI, who outlined the relevance of public policy education. Dr. Hammad Omer, T.I., in his closing statement, reaffirmed the strong and cordial Pakistan-Germany relationship and highlighted the need for language proficiency for academic success abroad.

Later, Professor Dr. Sajid Qamar, Rector of CUI, formally received the German diplomat and expressed gratitude for the visit. He also voiced interest in initiating German language instruction at the university to further strengthen academic ties.

The session concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing the enthusiastic exchange between the diplomat and the students.

E-China’s Heze ready to offer spring floral feast

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BEIJING, April 15 (BRNN/APP) : The 2025 World Peony Conference, as well as the 34th Heze International Peony Cultural Tourism Festival, kicked off in Heze, east China’s Shandong Province, on April 8, 2025.
Amidst the full bloom of peonies, Caozhou Peony Garden is seeing dazzling peonies awaken with vibrant life, drawing numerous visitors from near and afar.
Several foreign visitors praised the diverse offerings of activities at the garden this year, as well as the role peonies have played in boosting the local economy.
According to statistics, the peony industry in Heze created around 500,000 jobs and generated a total output value of some 13 billion yuan ($1.78 billion).
As spring vibes fill the air, Heze, known as the “peony capital of China,” is poised to welcome the world for a floral feast.

Police accelerate crackdown on drug trafficking

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 15 (APP):In line with Chief Minister Punjab’s vision for a drug-free province, Rawalpindi Police have intensified the campaign against narcotics, arresting five suspected drug suppliers and seizing a total of five kilograms of illicit drugs in coordinated operations across the district.

The raids, conducted under the instructions of City Police Officer Syed Khalid Hamdani, yielded significant results.

In Gujar Khan, police apprehended M. Abbas and recovered 1.52 kilograms of cannabis from him. The Naseerabad police team arrested Yasir and confiscated 1.32 kilograms of the contraband.

Further successes came from Mandra, where Zafar Ali was taken into custody with 1.07 kilograms of cannabis, while Dhamial police arrested Shahid and seized 550 grams of cannabis. and Nadeem Alamgir, recovering 525 grams of cannabis.

The police spokesman has confirmed that the arrested suspects will be prosecuted with concrete evidence to ensure maximum punishment.

Meanwhile, CPO Hamdani reiterated the police commitment to eradicating the drug trade, emphasizing that such operations will continue relentlessly to protect the community from the scourge of narcotics.

The recent crackdown demonstrates the police force’s determination to implement the provincial government’s anti-drug policy and create safer neighborhoods across Rawalpindi.

Hanoi Citywalk: China-Vietnam fruit trade fuels a ‘sweet opportunity’

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BEIJING, April 15 (BRNN/APP) : China has been Vietnam’s biggest trading partner for over 20 years in a row, with total bilateral trade exceeding 260 billion USD in 2024. More and more quality Vietnamese agricultural products such as durian and coconut are available to Chinese consumers.
China is also the largest export market for Vietnam’s agricultural products.Durian is China’s top imported fruit. Since Vietnam’s fresh durians were approved for export to China in 2022, its exports to China have surged. The shorter and less costly journey for Vietnamese durians to China offers more options for Chinese consumers.
China has been committed to promoting the building of a community with a shared future with neighboring countries. China’s consumers’ pursuit of affordable and accessible fruits has created a ‘sweet opportunity’ for Vietnam and other countries.

Minister Kayani, IFC discuss key steps to modernise Pakistan Railways

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