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Assan Khidmat Markaz project enters final stage

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Thursday visited the under-construction Assan Khidmat Markaz to review progress on the project.
Accompanied by Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza and other concerned officers, the chairman inspected construction and renovation work at the site.
Officials briefed him that construction of the main building had reached its final stage, while finishing and renovation works were progressing rapidly.
They added that landscaping and horticulture work around the project had been completed.
Assan Khidmat Markaz project enters final stage
Expressing satisfaction over the quality and pace of development and beautification work, Randhawa directed that upon completion, the Assan Khidmat Markaz should be handed over to the Ministry of Information Technology and other relevant departments.
He instructed that the remaining work be completed at the earliest so the facility could be opened to the public.
The CDA chairman said the Assan Khidmat Markaz would enable residents of the federal capital to access a wide range of services from multiple departments under one roof.
He added that all services currently offered at the CDA’s One-Window Facilitation Centre would also be available at the new facility.
Randhawa further directed that the highest quality standards must be ensured during the completion of the project to provide efficient and convenient services to citizens.

Shaheen Chowk underpass nears completion

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): Construction work on the Shaheen Chowk Underpass has entered its final stages, with more than 93 per cent of the project completed ahead of schedule, officials said during a site visit by Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Thursday.
The chairman, accompanied by Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza and other concerned officers, inspected various sections of the project and reviewed the pace and quality of ongoing work.
Shaheen Chowk underpass nears completion
Officials briefed him that the structural work of the underpass had been completed, while road works and finishing activities were progressing swiftly.
Landscaping and horticulture work around the project site is also underway, along with the installation of permanent decorative lighting to enhance the area.
Shaheen Chowk underpass nears completion
Expressing satisfaction over the progress, Randhawa said the project was being completed ahead of the stipulated timeline without any compromise on construction standards.
He said the underpass would provide signal-free and smooth traffic flow, particularly benefiting students of nearby educational institutions and daily commuters.
He added that improving travel facilities and modernising infrastructure in the federal capital remained among the CDA’s top priorities.
According to him, the completion of the project would help ease traffic congestion and result in savings of fuel and travel time for commuters.

Pakistan, ADB sign $730m agreements for power infrastructure, SOE transformation

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Thursday signed financing agreements for two major initiatives involving a combined amount of USD 730 million, aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s power infrastructure and advancing reforms in the public sector.
The agreements cover the Second Power Transmission Strengthening Project, with financing of USD 330 million, and the Accelerating State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) Transformation Program, amounting to USD 400 million, according to a press release issued by Ministry of Economic Affairs.
Speaking on the occasion, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary expressed appreciation for ADB’s role as a trusted development partner and its continued support to Pakistan in advancing critical infrastructure and governance reforms.
He highlighted that the transmission project will enable reliable evacuation of 2,300 MW from upcoming hydropower projects, relieve overloading of existing transmission lines and enhance resilience under contingency conditions.
He added that the SOE transformation program will strengthen compliance with the SOE Act, 2023 and SOE Policy 2023, besides improving operational efficiency, particularly focusing on the National Highway Authority (NHA).
The secretary emphasized that both initiatives are transformative in nature as the transmission project will secure Pakistan’s energy future by strengthening the backbone of the national grid whereas the SOE Program will enhance transparency, efficiency sustainability of state-owned enterprises nationwide.
Ms. Emma Fan, Country Director, ADB, expressed appreciation for the government of Pakistan’s strong commitment to these initiatives. She emphasized upon significance of the transmission project in strengthening energy infrastructure. Besides, she highlighted that significance of SOEs transformation program comes at a critical time in Pakistan and it will further strengthen the reform efforts of the government.
Both sides expressed their commitment to effectively utilize the financing for successful and timely completion of the two initiatives.

Christmas celebrated in KP amid tight security

By
Asif Jalal
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0
PESHAWAR, Dec 25 (APP): The Christian community celebrated Christmas across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Thursday with zeal and following their religious rituals amid tight security.
Christmas congregations were held in all the major churches of provincial metropolis, where Christian community members attended congregations and offered prayers. Major events were held in St. John’s Cathedral, All Saints Church and St. John Vianney Church.
Meanwhile, churches and houses of Christians were beautifully illuminated while formal Christmas celebration started on December 24 at midnight, where people congratulated each other. Prayers were held for peace, national development and prosperity.
Security arrangements were made outside churches and police personnel were deployed to ensure safety of Christian worship places. Capital City Police Officer, Dr Mian Saeed also visited various churches of the city and reviewed security measures.
Speaker Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assembly, Babar Salim Swati, also hosted a ceremony in the assembly on Christmas that, among others, was attended by MPAs, including minority representatives. He said that protecting the rights of religious minorities was among the government’s priorities and responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi congratulated Christians on the occasion of Christmas and said that the event conveys a message of love, peace, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among people.
In other districts of KP, including tribal districts the event of Christmas was celebrated amid stringent security measures.

Cabinet Division declares holiday in Islamabad on December 26

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): The Cabinet Division has issued a notification declaring a public holiday in the Islamabad Capital Territory on Friday, December 26.
According to the notification, the Pakistan Secretariat and all federal government offices located within the limits of Islamabad will remain closed on the said date.
However, the holiday will not apply to hospitals, banks, offices providing essential services, the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI), Capital Development Authority (CDA), Islamabad Administration, police, Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, which will continue to function as usual.
The Cabinet Division has also withdrawn its earlier notification issued on December 24, replacing it with the latest directive.

DC Abbottabad attends christmas ceremony to promote interfaith harmony

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ABBOTTABAD, Dec 25 (APP): A special ceremony was organized at St. Luke’s Church, Abbottabad, on the occasion of Christmas to promote interfaith harmony, mutual respect, and brotherhood.
Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad Sarmad Saleem Akram attended the event as a special guest, accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Abbottabad Afrasiab Zubair Hundal and District Youth Officer Ms Bushra.
Addressing the gathering, the deputy commissioner said that the protection of minority rights, provision of facilities, and ensuring religious freedom are among the top priorities of the district administration, and all possible measures are being taken in this regard. He emphasized that the Constitution of Pakistan fully guarantees the rights of minorities and that the district administration stands firmly with the Christian community as well as all other minorities.
The deputy commissioner extended Christmas greetings to the Christian community, cut a cake, and assured full cooperation from the district administration. At the conclusion of the ceremony, shields and honorary certificates were distributed among minority men and women in recognition of their professional services to society.
The event was attended by Priest of St. Luke’s Church Rafiq Javed Gill, Minority Member Waqar Gill, Advocate Zakir Paul, minority representatives, religious leaders, and a large number of men, women, and children belonging to the Christian community.

Quaid’s Dream, Youth’s Duty: Rana Mashhood’s Message on 150th Birth Anniversary

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): Federal Minister and Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP), Rana Mashhood, congratulated the nation on the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, calling it a historic occasion to reflect on the founder’s vision and inspiring young Pakistanis to lead the country toward progress and prosperity.
Speaking to the youth, Rana Mashhood highlighted the profound importance Jinnah placed on young generations. “Quaid-e-Azam always believed that the youth are the cornerstone of a nation’s future,” he said. Quoting Jinnah, he added: “You are the nation’s hope. Your energy, intellect, and determination will shape Pakistan’s destiny.”
Rana Mashhood, in an exclusive interview with APP, emphasized that Jinnah’s message to the youth went beyond mere words. He recalled how the founder encouraged young Pakistanis to embrace education, discipline, and moral integrity as tools for national development. “With faith, discipline, and selfless devotion to duty, there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve,” he reminded the audience, urging the youth to internalize this guiding principle.
The minister told APP that Quaid-e-Azam envisioned a Pakistan where young people actively participate in building a just, modern, and progressive society. He cited another of Jinnah’s words: “My message to you, young people of Pakistan, is to work hard, gain knowledge, and dedicate yourselves to the service of the country.” According to Rana Mashhood, this guidance remains more relevant than ever as the nation strives to meet contemporary challenges.
Highlighting the role of PMYP, Rana Mashhood said the government has launched multiple initiatives to empower youth across Pakistan. These programs, he explained, aim to equip young people with essential skills, entrepreneurial opportunities, and leadership training to fulfill Jinnah’s vision of a strong and capable generation. “Every young Pakistani has the potential to become a catalyst for change and progress,” he said, “and the PMYP is committed to providing them the platform to do so.”
Rana Mashhood urged students, professionals, and young entrepreneurs to take inspiration from Jinnah’s life and emulate his qualities of discipline, perseverance, and integrity. He added, “Quaid-e-Azam always believed that a nation’s progress is directly linked to the commitment and dedication of its youth. The future of Pakistan lies in your hands.”
The minister also called for unity, tolerance, and social responsibility, saying that embracing these values would honor Quaid-e-Azam’s legacy. “On this historic day, let us reaffirm our pledge to build a Pakistan that reflects the dreams and ideals of its founder—a Pakistan driven by youth, innovation, and a spirit of service,” he concluded.
Across the country, seminars, workshops, and youth-centered activities are being held to mark the occasion, celebrating the life, principles, and vision of Pakistan’s Father of the Nation. Rana Mashhood’s message resonated as a clarion call for young Pakistanis to take the lead in shaping a prosperous, dynamic, and united nation.

Libyan Envoy, OIC-COMSTECH agree to boost scientific & research cooperation

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): Libya and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (OIC-COMSTECH) have agreed to significantly strengthen their collaboration in science, research, and technology, with a focus on innovation, capacity building, and higher education.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between the Ambassador of Libya to Pakistan, Moamar Abdmutalib, and the Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH, Prof Dr M. Iqbal Choudhary, held at the Libyan Embassy in Islamabad.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to launch the COMSTECH–Libya Programme, a comprehensive initiative aimed at expanding cooperation between Libya and OIC member and observer states through OIC-COMSTECH.
The programme seeks to promote scientific research, technological innovation and human resource development across key sectors.
As a major component of the initiative, an Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Centre will be established at the University of Tripoli, focusing on AI applications in health, environmental sustainability and agriculture. OIC-COMSTECH will also facilitate the annual training of 50 healthcare professionals, including nurses, laboratory technicians and midwives, to strengthen Libya’s healthcare system.
The programme further includes capacity building for researchers in food security and agriculture, utilizing modern technologies such as GIS mapping, smart agriculture management systems and Internet of Things (IoT) applications to enhance productivity and support Libya’s food security objectives.
In addition, disaster management capacity-building programs will be undertaken, with an emphasis on disaster preparedness, health emergencies, and climate vulnerability.
OIC-COMSTECH will also host rectors and presidents of Libyan universities for an education forum designed to promote inter-university collaboration and academic exchange.
Another key feature of the initiative is the proposed establishment of an OIC-COMSTECH MENA Regional Coordination Office in Libya, with the support of the Libyan government, to facilitate regional scientific cooperation.
Prof Dr Iqbal Choudhary thanked the Libyan ambassador for the warm hospitality and reaffirmed OIC-COMSTECH’s commitment to supporting Libya’s scientific and technological development.
Ambassador Moamar Abdmutalib said the partnership would open new avenues for Libyan researchers and professionals to engage in advanced scientific fields and international collaboration.

China stands ready to deepen exchanges, cooperation with Pakistan in media: Lin Jian

By
Asif Jalal
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0
BEIJING, Dec 25 (APP): China stands ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with Pakistan in media and various fields, enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples, promote sound public opinion for robust China-Pakistan relations and the development of China Pakistan Economic Corridor 2.0, Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Lin Jian said on Thursday.
In response to a question regarding 9th CPEC Media Forum held recently, he said at his regular briefing that the participants spoke highly of the development achievements of CPEC and noted that media of the two countries need to enhance exchanges and cooperation and make active efforts to carry forward the friendship between the two countries.
He said that on Dec. 24th, the 9th CPEC Media Forum was successfully held. The forum was hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan and organized by China Economic Net and Pakistan-China Institute. Representatives from Chinese and Pakistani governments, media and think tanks attended the forum.
“China and Pakistan are iron-flag friends and always strategic cooperative partners. China stands ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with Pakistan in media and various fields, enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples, promote sound public opinion for robust China-Pakistan relations and the development of CPEC 2.0, and accelerate the building of an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era,” he said.
The 9th China–Pakistan Economic Corridor Media Forum was held in a hybrid “online + offline” format. About 200 participants from both sides, including senior officials as well as representatives from the media, think tanks, and other sectors, attended the video forum.
The theme of this forum was “Strengthening Media Cooperation to Promote the ‘2.0 Upgraded Version’ of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor.”
Participants engaged in extensive and in-depth discussions on how to deepen China–Pakistan media cooperation under the current international situation.
Both sides unanimously expressed the expectation that the media of the two countries will continue to serve as “messengers” of friendship and understanding, vividly tell the stories of China–Pakistan cooperation, comprehensively showcase the achievements of bilateral cooperation, promptly refute false news, and contribute more to advancing the construction of the “2.0 upgraded version” of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor and jointly building an even closer China–Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.

Change of Guard ceremony held at Mazar-e-Quaid

By
Asif Jalal
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0
KARACHI, Dec 25 (APP): An impressive change of guard ceremony was held at the Mazar-e-Quaid-e-Azam on Thursday in connection with the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation.
During the ceremony, a smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Military Academy Kakul assumed the ceremonial guard duties.
Commandant of Pakistan Military Academy Kakul, Major General Iftikhar Hassan Chaudhry was the chief guest on the occasion. He laid floral wreath at the Mazar and offered fateha. He also recorded his impressions in the book of visitors.
Earlier, Quran Khwani was also held at the Mazar for the departed soul of Quaid-e-Azam.
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