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Pakistan, Australia to boost cooperation in energy and mining sectors

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Petroleum, Ali Pervaiz Malik, and Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins, discussed on Monday strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy and mining sectors, with a focus on investment, technology transfer, and skills development.
During the meeting, the Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing energy security and welcomed Australian expertise, particularly in the fields of mining and renewable energy.
He encouraged Australian companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s expanding energy sector.
The High Commissioner praised Pakistan’s recent economic progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, noting that improvements in the current account and profit repatriation mechanisms have revived the confidence of multinational companies operating in the country.
He expressed strong interest from Australian mining firms in exploring Pakistan’s mineral-rich regions and proposed collaboration between Australian universities, mining companies, and Pakistani institutions to launch specialised training programs in modern mining technologies.
“This initiative will help develop local expertise and support the growth of Pakistan’s mining industry,” Hawkins said.
Pervaiz Malik welcomed the proposal, stating, “Pakistan values Australia’s advanced mining capabilities. We are eager to build partnerships that strengthen local skills and attract investment into our mineral and energy sectors.
He assured full government support to facilitate such collaborations.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to strengthen institutional linkages and explore joint ventures in the energy and mining sectors to promote mutual economic growth.

Jam Khan Shoro visits Sukkur Barrage & Akil Bund on Indus River

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
SUKKUR, Jul 21 (APP):Provincial Irrigation Minister, Jam Khan Shoro on Monday inaugurated one of the 16 gates of Sukkur Barrage after their replacement.
On this occasion, he stated that the successful replacement of the 16 gates of Sukkur Barrage is a significant achievement, as it was a challenging task to replace the gates while the Indus River was flowing.
The Minister further said that the replacement of the 16 gates has extended the lifespan of the barrage by 30 years, and the remaining 28 gates will be replaced by June 2026. He added that the replacement of the pocket gates of Sukkur Barrage will be done in the third phase.
Jam Khan Shoro mentioned that during the gate replacement process, the country faced challenges such as war with India, lawyers’ protests, and terrorism. He emphasized that Sukkur Barrage is the backbone of the national economy and a historical structure.
The Provincial Irrigation Minister stated that the replacement of all gates at Sukkur Barrage will reduce the weight by 3,500 tons. He also mentioned that sheets have been installed on the bypass bridge for the security of Chinese engineers, and a study is underway for a new barrage as an alternative to Sukkur Barrage.
The Minister expressed concerns about the water release in the Indus River, stating that the amount of water released is not sufficient to carry away the silt. He emphasized that the country’s demand is to receive the required amount of water in April He inspected the Aqil Bund on the Indus River at Larkana.
The Secretary Irrigation, Zarif Iqbal Khero, Chief Engineers and other irrigation officials were also present on the occasion.
The Minister also highlighted the ongoing issues related to water and the efforts being made to address them. He noted that even when water is available, it is often due to rainfall, which is not useful for irrigation purposes.

Cloudy,humid weather forecast for city

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
LAHORE, Jul 21 (APP):Cloudy and humid weather continued in the city on Monday with the Meteorological department forecasting similar conditions over the next 24 hours.
According to MET officials, heavy monsoon rains are expected to trigger flash floods in local streams and nullahs across several northern and upper regions, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Mansehra, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Buner, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi, Mardan, Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, the hill torrents of DG Khan, northeast Punjab, and Kashmir from July 21 to 25.
Urban flooding is also likely in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Okara, Nowshera, and Peshawar during this period.
Landslides and mudslides may lead to road blockages in vulnerable hilly areas, particularly
in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The MET department further warned that heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning could damage
fragile structures such as roofs and walls of dilapidated houses, electric poles, billboards,
solar panels, and vehicles.
Officials said that moist currents from the Arabian Sea are currently entering the country
while a westerly wave is affecting the western and upper regions.
Rainfall was recorded in several areas, including Islamabad, Murree, Sialkot, Balakot, Parachinar,
Malam Jabba, Kakul, Cherat, Garhi Dupatta, Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Khuzdar, Sibbi,
Tharparkar, Sukkur, and Mithi.
The highest temperature on Monday was recorded in Nokundi and Dalbandin, where the
mercury soared to 45°C. In Lahore, the temperature reached a maximum of 34°C.

Capital City Police accelerates crackdown against criminals

By
Ahmed Waheed
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0

PESHAWAR, Jul 21 (APP):Capital City Police has accelerated crackdown against anti-social elements including those displaying weapons to viral it on the social media, aerial firing, unlawful arms and other criminals across the district.

During the crackdown, the Capital City Police arrested 21 such alleged accused wanted in connections with such crimes from the jurisdiction of various police stations.

The police personnel from police stations Bhana Mari, Agha Mir Jani, Phandu, Faqirabad, Kothwali, Pahari Pura, Sarband, Tehkal, Gulberg, Regi, Mathra, Daudzai, Khazana, Chamkani and Inqilab participated in the operation.

During the crackdown, the police arrested 21 people in connections with display of weapons on social media, aerial firing and possessing weapons unlawfully. The police also recovered arms and ammunition including one Kalashnikov, 21 number of pistols and cartridges.

Formal FIRs have been registered against all alleged accused and further investigations were in progress.

Minister chairs meeting on landmark family mediation initiative

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
LAHORE, Jul 21 (APP):Punjab Minister for Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Mal Sohail Shaukat Butt chaired a meeting to review progress on the establishment of Family Support and Mediation Complexes under the “Sukh Da Vehra” initiative in five major cities of the province.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Social Welfare Punjab Javed Akhtar Mehmood,
Director General Tariq Qureshi, and other senior officials. Divisional Commissioners of Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala participated via video link.
The meeting focused on the urgent identification of suitable land and expediting administrative processes
required for the construction of these modern family complexes.
The “Sukh Da Vehra” initiative, envisioned by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, aims to provide a dignified, secure, and supportive environment for the resolution of family disputes. Each complex will feature family courts, mediation and counseling services, child psychologists, therapy for victims of domestic violence, legal awareness facilities, and dedicated women-friendly waiting areas, alongside coffee shops and safe play zones for children.
Minister Sohail Shaukat Butt directed all relevant departments to ensure close inter-agency coordination and to accelerate efforts for the swift implementation of this landmark public welfare initiative.

ANP delegation meets KP Governor to discuss political, security situation

By
Ahmed Waheed
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0

PESHAWAR, Jul 21 (APP):A delegation of the Awami National Party (ANP), led by its provincial president Mian Iftikhar Hussain, called on Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Monday to discuss the prevailing political and security situation in the province.

The ANP delegation included Provincial General Secretary Hussain Shah Yousafzai, Vice Presidents Shahi Khan Sherani and Salahuddin, Joint Secretary Hamid Toofan, Cultural Activities Head Akbar Hoti, Youth Secretary Sana Gulzar, and Salar Shakirullah Shinwari.

Also present during the meeting were Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) parliamentary leader in the KP Assembly Ahmad Karim Kundi, provincial president Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha, General Secretary Shuja Khan (Shazi Khan), Vice Chairman of Red Crescent Farzand Ali Wazir, Deputy General Secretary Abrar Saeed Swati, and Fazal Hussain.

The discussion focused on the deteriorating law and order situation, provincial challenges, and the need for united political action.

Governor Faisal Karim Kundi criticized the provincial government’s inaction, saying it had left the province at the mercy of terrorists.

All participants agreed that political unity was essential to safeguarding the province.

The ANP delegation praised the Governor’s stance and efforts in advocating for provincial rights.

PDWP approves 07 development schemes worth Rs 29.249b

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
LAHORE, Jul 21 (APP):The 9th meeting of Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) for fiscal year 2025–26, here Monday approved seven development schemes across various sectors including Walled City, School Education, IT, and Transport with a cumulative estimated cost of Rs. 29,249.902 million.
Presided over by Planning & Development Board Punjab’s Chairman Dr Naeem Rauf, the forum approved following development schemes:
1. CM Punjab School Meal Program – Estimated cost: Rs. 6,928.140 million.
2. Comprehensive Infrastructure Improvement & Rehabilitation of Underground Electric and Telecom Systems inside the Walled City of Lahore – Estimated cost: Rs. 6,924.251 million.
3. Comprehensive Infrastructure Improvement & Rehabilitation of Building Facades along the Historical Trail inside the Walled City of Lahore – Estimated cost: Rs. 3,094.9 million.
4. Conservation & Restoration of Historic Buildings, Havelis, and Tourism Enhancement inside the Walled City of Lahore – Estimated cost: Rs. 5,106 million.
5. Comprehensive Infrastructure Improvement, Rehabilitation & Upgradation of Sewerage, Drainage, Water Supply Systems, and Street Surfacing inside the Walled City of Lahore – Estimated cost: Rs. 5,653.17 million.
6. Establishment of CERT and Data Center – Estimated cost: Rs. 1,334.441 million.
7. Feasibility Study for Mass Transit System in Sargodha (PC-II) – Estimated cost: Rs. 209 million.
The meeting was attended by P&D Board Secretary Rafaqat Ali, Local Government Secretary Shakeel Ahmad Mian, Transport Secretary Imran Sikandar, Chief Economist Masood Anwar, P&D Board member and other senior officers.

Key trade agenda discussed in standing Committee on Commerce

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 21 (APP):The National Assembly, Standing Committee on Commerce convened on Monday at the Parliament House, under the chairmanship of Muhammad Jawed Hanif Khan, MNA, to deliberate on key issues shaping Pakistan’s trade and commerce landscape.
The Committee reviewed and adopted the report submitted by its Sub-Committee on the long-outstanding receivables of the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP).
The Committee was informed that the Ministry of Finance had released Rs. 15 billion through the Ministry of Commerce to facilitate TCP’s recovery from various ministries and organizations.
Addressing the matter of the suspension of SRO 760 relating to the Gems and Jewellery Association of Pakistan, the Committee appreciated the Ministry’s proactive approach and noted assurances that the matter would be resolved promptly.
 In view of the sugar crises looming over and the governments decision to import sugar, the Chairman took serious notice of the situation.
While keeping in mind the plight of unprotected consumers, sudden surge of price hike of sugar and to expose the profiteering mafia, the Chairman constituted a sub-committee to investigate the matter in detail.
The sub-committee has been tasked with submitting its findings within 15 days.
 The Chairman shown displeasure on the non representation of Department of Plant Protection (DPP) and Fruit Juice Council (FJC).
The Committee held comprehensive discussions on the Pakistan National Tariff Policy. The committee Member’s also debated the rationale behind reducing taxes on big cars and increasing them on small cars, while seeking clarification on policy decisions.  The Committee advocated for liberalizing the import of raw materials and machinery to support industrial development and boost productivity.
Furthermore, the Committee examined the feasibility of achieving the export target of $60 billion by 2029, as proposed by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). TDAP expressed confidence in reaching the goal through new initiatives and policy rationalization, though they acknowledged existing challenges and recent declines in certain sectors.
The meeting was attended by MNAs Mr. Muhammad Mobeen Arif, Mr. Usama Ahmed Mela, Ms. Shaista Pervaiz, Dr. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, Mr. Muhammad Atif, Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb, Mr. Khurshid Ahmed Junejo, Ms. Shahida Rehmani, Mr. Muhammad Ahmad Chattha, and Rana Atif in person, while MNAs Mr. Asad Alam Niazi, Mr. Muhammad Ali Sarfaraz, Mr. Farhan Chishti, and Mr. Gul Asghar Khan joined virtually.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Industries and Production, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the State Bank of Pakistan were also present.

Seminary students honoured

By
Ahmed Waheed
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0

Sargodha, Jul 21 (APP):Dawat-e-Islami’s Jamia-tul-Madina Girls Department organized an annual turban ceremony here on Monday at a private marriage.
The event featured a special address by Maulana Abu Majid Shahid Attari, a member of the central Majlis-e-Shura.
He said that 104 students, who completed Dars-e-Nizami and 53 students who completed Faizan-e-Shariat were awarded turbans, totaling 157 students. “Approximately 700 Islamic sisters from across the division attended the event”, he added.
He said that the ceremony aimed to promote religious and moral education, academic assessment, and organizational improvement among students.

Rubina Khalid meets KP Governor after Senate election victory

By
Ahmed Waheed
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0
PESHAWAR, Jul 21 (APP):Newly-elected Senator and Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Rubina Khalid, called
on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi following her success in the Senate elections.
Governor Kundi congratulated her on Senate election victory, terming it a triumph of Shaheed Bhutto’s vision.
Senator Rubina Khalid expressed gratitude for the Governor’s support and role in her success.
The meeting was also attended by Pakistan Peoples Party’s provincial president Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha,
General Secretary Shazi Khan, along with other party officials and members of the provincial assembly.
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