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CM aide pays surprise visit to Peshawar Zoo

By
Ali Ali
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PESHAWAR, Jul 18 (APP):Special assistant to the Chief Minister on Wildlife Pir Musawar Khan on Friday paid a surprise visit to Peshawar zoo where he inspected its various sections besides checked the attendance of officers and staff.
The special assistant conducted a detailed review of the care and facilities for animals and birds at the zoo.
He inspected the fish aquarium, wildlife museum, and enclosures of animals and birds
He interacted with visitors and obtained feedback on staff behavior and available facilities.
On a complaint about overcharging entry fees, the contractor was fined and legal action was ordered.
The director zoo briefed on foggers, solar systems, and other matters for animals and birds.
Installation of solar systems for water tanks is saving approximately seven hundred thousand rupees per month on electricity bills.
The CM aide ordered regular cleaning of the fish aquarium and installation of additional foggers in the zoo.
 He said a modern fee collection system should be introduced instead of the manual system.
Providing recreational facilities to the public, especially children, is the government’s top priority, said Pir Musawar Khan.
He expressed satisfaction over the overall management of the zoo and appreciated the performance of the administration.

TBH holds 8th session on visual art for beginners

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP):The Black Hole (TBH) held its eighth session on visual art titled “Art from the Heart – Where Art Meets Emotion” for beginners on Friday.
According to details, visual artist Sadaf moderated the session the event provided participants with an opportunity to connect with their inner artist, experiment with different mediums, and translate their emotions into visual form.
The session was free and open to all this series offers guidance, encouragement, and the joy of creating art that speaks from — and to — the heart.

Libyan Commander in Chief calls on COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir

By
NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, Jul 18 (APP): Commander in Chief of Libyan Armed Forces Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M) here Friday at General Headquarters.
Meeting encompassed discussion on matters of mutual interest, evolving regional dynamics, security challenges and matters pertaining to defence cooperation, said a press release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Both leaders agreed to undertake defense industrial collaboration and exchange of technical expertise to address contemporary security challenges.

Libyan Commander in Chief calls on COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir
Upon his arrival at GHQ, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar laid a floral wreath at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada to pay homage to the martyrs of Pakistan Army. He was offered a warm welcome, followed by guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army.

Crackdown against professional beggars underway, 50 arrested

By
Ali Ali
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RAWALPINDI, Jul 18 (APP):The Rawalpindi Police have launched a crackdown against professional beggars across the city and detained 50 accused during the last five days.
The crackdown was launched on the instructions of City Police Officer Syed Khalid Hamdani to eliminate the menace of beggary from the city, a police spokesman said on Friday.
He said special squads had been formed to take action against professional beggars. Most of them were also involved in theft, drug trafficking and other crimes, he added.
The spokesman said strict surveillance was being maintained to prevent begging on busy roads and highways.

Chinese firms exploring agriculture chain cooperation with Pakistan

By
Ali Ali
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BEIJING, Jul 18 (APP):Chinese agritech companies are looking to partner with Pakistan to help tackle key agricultural challenges in the South Asian country, offering solutions for water scarcity and the rehabilitation of saline land.
At the ongoing third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), Chinese firms presented technologies they believe are well-suited for Pakistan’s environment and could provide a boost to local farmers and the national food supply chain.
A company named Xiaoma IoT is introducing smart agriculture solutions aimed at conserving water and fertiliser, and boosting productivity. The company has secured its first Pakistani client earlier this year with a $50,000 order for equipment like digital valves and integrated water-fertiliser systems, a company representative told China Economic Net (CEN) in an interview.
This technology allows farmers to manage irrigation and fertilisation through a smart platform that monitors soil conditions like moisture and nutrient levels in real-time. By delivering what the crop needs, the system helps conserve water and fertilisers.
The firm, which develops its own hardware and software, stated that it has received further business inquiries from other potential partners in Pakistan.
Another company, Guiwugu, is proposing an innovative ecological model to bring saline and alkaline land – a common problem in many of Pakistan’s agricultural belts – back into production.
The method uses crayfish to naturally treat the soil. Crayfish live off surface water on land, gradually reducing salinity. Afterwards, the rehabilitated land can be used to grow rice, with the crayfish and rice cultivated together in a symbiotic system.
Crayfish act as a natural form of pest control and their waste fertilises the rice fields, which can improve the quality of the rice harvest without reducing the yield, Guiwugu founder Ni Libin told CEN.  According to a Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) report, Pakistan lost 6.67 million hectares out of its 22-million-hectare agricultural land area to salinity, or 30% of the total farm land.
This technology is already in use in Northeast China and is being tested in Xinjiang, a region with a climate that shares similarities with parts of Pakistan.
“The technology can be tried in Pakistan,” he stated, noting that winter temperatures in Pakistan’s agricultural zones are suitable for this type of farming.

PRCS provides cash assistance to LOC affected families

By
Ali Ali
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MUZAFFARABAD, Jul 18 (APP):In a significant display of solidarity and humanitarian commitment, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), in collaboration with the Turkish Red Crescent  distributed PKR 15,000 in cash assistance to each of 200 families impacted by recent cross-border hostilities along the Line of Control (LoC) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The cash distribution ceremony was held here on Friday at President House in, attended by national and international dignitaries, including the Chairperson PRCS Ms. Farzhana Naek,Secretary General PRCS Mr. Muhammad Abaid Ullah Khan, IFRC  Head of Delegation in Pakistan Mr. Farid Abdul Kadir, Acting Head of Delegation Turkish Red Crescent Society Mr. Erkan Avci, Presidential Advisor Sardar Imtiaz Ahmed Khan, Chairman PRCS AJK Sardar Shafiq Ahmed Khan, Secretary PRCS AJK Ms. Gulzar Fatima, Director General State Disaster Management Authority, Director General Civil Defense PRCS AJK branch  were also present.
The honourable Chairperson PRCS, Mrs Farzhana Naek expressed deep empathy for the affected families and said I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones, injured, displaced, or deprived of livelihoods due to firing at the Line of Control. She said,PRCS with the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross has also provided assistance to the AJK Branch in strengthening First Aid services during the crisis management situation along the Line of Control (LoC). She further added, PRCS in close coordination with the government promptly mobilised their teams and delivered the essential food assistance and first aid to 140 affected families.” She emphasised the significance of the cash assistance, adding, the cash support will enable the families to meet their immediate needs. She also expressed gratitude to the Turkish Red Crescent for their partnership and solidarity with PRCS in supporting the people of AJK.
Mr. Erkan Avci, Acting Head of Delegation for the Turkish Red Crescent in Pakistan, reaffirmed their commitment, stating, “We feel proud to support the people of Azad Jammu Kashmir during these challenging times. Today, we are delivering assistance as part of our joint humanitarian mission with PRCS.
The IFRC Head of Delegation in Pakistan Mr Farid Abdul Qadir praised the resilience of the people of AJK, noting their strength in the face of adversity.
Sardar Shafiq Ahmed Khan, Chairman of PRCS AJK Branch, appreciated the efforts of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and said; we are deeply grateful to the PRCS National Headquarters, Turkish Red Crescent and all our partners for their invaluable support in reaching the most vulnerable communities.
The PRCS and its partners remain dedicated to providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the ongoing challenges in AJK, ensuring support reaches the most vulnerable communities.

ICT admin sets sugar price at Rs172/kg, crackdown on overcharging begins

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP):The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has fixed the retail price of sugar across the federal capital, officially setting it at Rs172 per kilogram and a notification issued in this regard warned of strict legal action against violators.
According to the notification, sugar will be sold at the ex-mill rate of Rs165 per kilogram, while the final retail price for consumers will not exceed Rs172 per kilogram. The decision aims to control the increasing sugar prices in the local market and ensure price uniformity.
In this regard, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon, has directed all Assistant Commissioners to enforce the official price list and take immediate action against those selling sugar above the fixed rates. He emphasized that shopkeepers charging beyond the set price will face strict legal measures.
In his statement, the Deputy Commissioner urged citizens to pay only according to the officially notified rate list when buying sugar. He encouraged the public to report any retailer demanding higher prices so that the administration can take prompt action.
Irfan Nawaz Memon said that the administration would ensure the implementation of the price control order through regular inspections and raids. Assistant Commissioners have been instructed to monitor markets, check shopkeepers, and ensure the availability of sugar at the notified rates.
The DC further stated that consumers must remain vigilant and refuse to pay any price higher than the government-approved rate. He assured that complaints against profiteering will be addressed immediately, and those responsible for overcharging will be penalized.
The district administration also plans to launch a crackdown across Islamabad markets to curb profiteering and hoarding practices. The DC stressed that ensuring the sale of sugar at the fixed price is a priority for the administration.
In addition, market committees and price control magistrates have been tasked with conducting regular surveys to prevent price violations. Any complaints from citizens regarding sugar prices will be addressed on a priority basis.
The administration has reiterated its commitment to stabilizing essential commodity prices and ensuring relief to the public. Citizens have been advised to contact the district administration in case of any grievances related to sugar pricing.
With the notification now in effect, strict enforcement is expected across Islamabad’s markets in the coming days, with officials aiming to ensure that sugar remains available to consumers at the government-set rates.

Senate briefed on EOBI data, property holdings, and merit-based hiring under PM’s vision

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP):The Senate was informed on Friday that a total of 11,448,517 workers were registered with the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), and registration cards had been issued to all.
During the Question Hour, Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik, responding on behalf of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, said that although the EOBI website does not update registration in real-time, steps were being taken to ensure automatic online data integration. The number of insured workers had since risen to approximately 11.6 million.
In reply to a supplementary question from Senator Danesh Kumar, the minister said details regarding insurance entitlements, affiliated companies, hospital access, and posthumous benefits would be furnished in writing.
To another question by Senator Shahadat Awan, he clarified that mine workers were included in the EOBI system and their registration was being handled through provincial setups. He also stated that a special committee, constituted on the directives of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, was actively working to register domestic workers across the country.
Barrister Aqeel Malik further stated that a 15% increase in EOBI pensions had recently been approved by the federal government.
Responding to a query from Senator Masroor Ahsan regarding EOBI-owned properties, the minister informed the House that the institution currently holds 49 buildings nationwide: Punjab (24), Sindh (14), Islamabad (5), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (4), and Balochistan (2). He added that 40 buildings were being used as rented spaces for regional and field offices.
Senator Zameer Hussain Ghumro raised the issue of EOBI devolution to the provinces. The minister responded that the matter would be placed before the Council of Common Interests (CCI) and resolved in accordance with constitutional provisions.
Senator Masroor Ahsan pointed out that the data did not include plots owned by EOBI despite contributions made by both employers and employees. He suggested that the issue be referred to a relevant Senate committee.
The minister responded that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision for workers’ welfare was reflected in initiatives like the reactivation of the National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC) to expedite dispute resolution. He said details regarding EOBI plots would also be submitted shortly.
In a separate question, Senator Abdul Shakoor Khan asked how the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis had made appointments during a general hiring ban.
Barrister Aqeel Malik clarified that 37 appointments were made (34 through an addendum and 3 through original advertisement) under an Office Memorandum issued by the Finance Division on September 6, 2024, which allowed recruitment processes already underway to continue. He said an NOC extension was obtained from the Establishment Division in December 2024, and the advertised positions—ranging from Assistants and Stenotypists to Naib Qasids—were filled in accordance with procedure, with advertisements issued in April and July 2024.
Senator Shakoor also highlighted concerns about limited representation from Balochistan. The minister responded that recruitment was conducted on open merit and local basis and also accommodated minority quotas.
Senator Fawzia Arshad requested detailed advertisement dates and breakdown of appointments. The minister said complete district- and province-wise information had been submitted in written form.
Senator Danesh Kumar criticized the absence of reserved quotas for women and persons with disabilities. Responding to this, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar said that all public sector recruitment was now carried out through a structured mechanism, including written tests and interviews, and that appointments were strictly merit-based.
He emphasized that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision was clear: all government hiring must adhere to transparency and merit. “No appointment should be made on verbal orders or bypassing due process,” he added.
The minister further said that disadvantaged regions—such as Balochistan, interior Sindh, southern Punjab, and parts of KP—were being prioritized. He noted a one-time age relaxation in CSS exams, along with coaching provided at the Civil Services Academy for underrepresented areas.
He also criticized the declining standards of education in some private universities, stating that substandard degrees were a threat to the future of public service. He said the government was committed to improving quality and fairness across the system.

4 bills smoothly sail through Senate

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP):The senate on Friday unanimously passed four bills including the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Pakistan Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (Amendment) Bill, 2025 as reported by the concerned Standing Committees.
The bills were moved by Minister of State for Interior Muhammad Tallal Badar and Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar in the Houses.
The House passed all the bills through clause by clause readings. The Statement of objects and Reasons of the Extradition (Amendment ) Bill says that the extradition requests are received from foreign jurisdictions through diplomatic channels. The cases are processed under Extradition Act 1972 and have to forwarded to the Federal Cabinet twice which takes considerable time due to busy schedule of the cabinet official business.
The statement of objects and reasons the Pakistan Citizen (Amendment) bill says that a large number of Pakistani diaspora are complaining that they had to renounce their Pakistani citizenship as a condition for acquiring citizenship of a foreign country for residence or stay. Whenever such countries are entering into dual nationality arrangements with government of Pakistan, there is no provision within Pakistan Citizenship Act 1951 which allows resumption of Pakistan citizenship. The amendment will allow Pakistani diaspora to resume their Pakistani citizenship.
The statement of objects and reasons of the Federal Board (Amendment) bill says that the act has been amended to provide a comprehensive framework for the Board to organize, regulate, conduct and overseas intermediate and secondary education in line with best practices. The proposed amendments aim to facilitate swift and flexible decision making while enabling the Board to establish international collaboration. The composition of Board has also been revised to adopt a more inclusive approach.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Law and Justice Aqeel Malik laid before the Senate the National Agri-trade and Food Safety Authority Ordinance 2025 as required by clause (2) of the Article 89 of the constitution.

Pakistan–UK trade, investment cooperation fostering institutional linkages: Commerce Minister

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP):Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, held a series of high-level engagements in London aimed at deepening Pakistan–UK trade and investment cooperation and fostering institutional linkages across priority sectors.
As part of his ongoing official visit to the United Kingdom, in a meeting with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the Minister emphasized that the recently launched UK–Pakistan Trade Dialogue is poised to usher in a new era of predictability, transparency, and business-friendly policies in bilateral trade, said a release issued here on Friday.
He encouraged the Chamber to explore sector-specific Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Pakistani chambers and trade bodies to institutionalize collaboration and unlock joint opportunities.
Highlighting Pakistan’s surging IT exports, which crossed USD 3.2 billion in FY 2023–24, the Minister invited LCCI’s members to engage with Pakistan’s dynamic tech ecosystem, now ranked second globally for freelance IT professionals.
He stressed the importance of collaboration in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and blockchain, and outlined Pakistan’s innovative fintech capacities, including early blockchain-powered remittance solutions and growing interest in digital assets and decentralized finance.
The Minister also underscored Pakistan’s readiness for green investment, inviting UK firms to partner in Pakistan’s renewable energy transition. He proposed regular business forums and LCCI-led trade missions to Pakistan focusing on underutilized sectors.
At the Pakistan Britain Business Council (PBBC), the Minister recognized the Council’s vital role in bridging public and private sector actors across both countries.
The Council lauded Pakistan government’s efforts in reviving PIA’s operations to UK and stressed hiw this will help in upping trade of perishables. Minister encouraged PBBC to expand its support to non-traditional Pakistani exports and SMEs, particularly in IT services, women-led entrepreneurship, and cultural industries. He stressed the importance of academic and industry linkages, diaspora engagement, and leveraging the Council’s platform for tourism promotion and trade policy feedback.
In his meeting with the UK–Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UKPCCI), the Minister called for enhanced matchmaking between UK importers and reliable Pakistani suppliers.
He urged the Chamber to mobilize diaspora-led investments in Pakistan through joint ventures, franchising, and startup incubation, and proposed greater support for tourism and culture-focused initiatives.
He also highlighted the need for joint accelerators, digital services B2B platforms, and tech-centered business missions to enhance Pakistan’s visibility in the UK digital economy.
A member of the chamber spoke to Minister about  introducing a solar powered household heating appliances to the Pakistan market, while another member showed interest in travelling to Pakistan to establish supply chains for in demand fruits and vegetables exportable from Pakistan to UK’s largest retailers.
The Minister directed Trade Wing’s team to get in touch with the businesses and pursue the commercial connectivity.
The day ended with a dinner with London’s Pakistani community’s academics, business professionals, IT sector companies and software houses. The Minister stressed on role of private sector, need of further engagement with Chambers, businesses and SMEs in Pakistan.
These engagements underscore Pakistan’s renewed commitment to institutionalizing commercial diplomacy and fostering value-added trade partnerships that respond to the evolving dynamics of the UK market.
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