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JICA Delegation Conducts Technical Visit to Multan International Airport

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):A technical delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), accompanied by Japanese consultants, contractors, and local sub-contractors, visited Multan International Airport (MIAP) to initiate soil testing for the planned upgrade of the airport’s Level-03 Baggage Handling System (BHS).
According to airport officials, soil analysis was carried out in coordination with representatives from the CNS, vigilance, and civil engineering sections.
JICA Delegation Conducts Technical Visit to Multan International Airport
The upgrade is part of a broader plan to install a next-generation baggage handling system aimed at improving security screening and operational efficiency.
During the inspection, the JICA team also handed over two CCTV cameras to be integrated with MIAP’s existing security infrastructure for testing and evaluation.
Following the field assessment, the delegation met with the Chief Operating Officer/Airport Manager to present initial observations and discuss the project’s upcoming construction phase.
The COO/APM assured full institutional support and instructed sectional heads, including the Acting Chief Security Officer of ASF, to ensure uninterrupted passenger screening and operational continuity throughout the installation period.

Rawalpindi Police continue wide-ranging search operations; 16 illegal Afghan nationals held

By
Samina Ch
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0
RAWALPINDI, Nov 27 (APP):The Rawalpindi Police on Thursday continued extensive search operations under the National Action Plan (NAP) in multiple areas of the district on the instructions of City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani, a spokesman said.
He stated that the police checked the credentials of 2,165 individuals, along with 923 houses, 655 shops and 37 hotels. During the operations, 16 Afghan nationals residing illegally were taken into custody.
The spokesman added that 11 scrap yards, five bus and truck stands and various tenants were also inspected. Eleven cases were registered against individuals who failed to register their tenancy details.
The search operations were conducted in the areas of the Pirwadhai, Ganjmandi, City, Waris Khan, Banni, New Town, Sadiqabad, the Ratta Amral, the Civil Lines, the Wah Saddar, the Cantt, Morgah, Westridge, Chauntra, Chakri, Dhamial, Jatli, Rawat, Mandra, Gujar Khan and Kallar Syedan police stations.
He said the operations aimed to maintain law and order and curb crime, adding that all available resources were being utilised to uphold the rule of law and ensure public safety.

UNDP to enroll volunteers for global development

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced a new set of volunteering opportunities for November 2025, calling on individuals worldwide to contribute to global development through both on-site and online assignments,said in a Press Release issued here on Thursday.
The newly released roles span several technical and thematic areas, including communications, project support, research, environmental sustainability, gender equality, and education outreach.
 UNDP has also expanded its remote volunteering options, offering opportunities in translation, digital design, IT support, and content development.
Volunteers play a vital role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), supporting initiatives focused on poverty reduction, climate action, community resilience, and social inclusion.
UNDP highlights that volunteering provides candidates with valuable professional experience, global exposure, and the chance to collaborate with diverse communities.
Eligibility requirements vary by position, but applicants are generally expected to demonstrate strong motivation, relevant education or experience, effective communication skills, and proficiency in widely spoken languages such as English, French, or Spanish.
Prospective volunteers can access the full list of available assignments and submit applications through the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) portal.
The application process involves creating an online profile, browsing open roles, and submitting tailored applications. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further screening.
UNDP encourages individuals seeking meaningful engagement and international development experience to explore current opportunities and apply online via the official UNV platform.
For additional information and application details, visit the UNV portal at app.unv.org/?hostEntity=DP.

Kerb currency market

By
Samina Ch
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0
KARACHI, Nov 27 (APP):Following were the Opening Rates of foreign currencies in kerb market issued by the Forex Association of Pakistan (FAP), here on Thursday.
F.C.                                 LOW RATE         HIGH RATE
(Inter Bank)                       280.55              280.60
USD                                   281.24              281.60
EURO                                 326.00              329.00
GBP                                   372.50              375.50
JPY                                      1.79                  1.89
AED                                    76.80                77.15
SAR                                    75.05                75.25

Agricultural chemicals worth 3.686 bln imported in four months

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):The imports of agriculture and other chemicals during the first four months of the current financial year grew by 8.41 per cent as compared to the imports of the corresponding period of the last year.
During the period from July to October 2025, different agricultural and other chemicals valued at $3.686 billion were imported as compared to the imports of $3.374 billion of the same period of the last year, according to the data of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
However, the imports of the fertilizers manufactured in the country decreased by 9.69 per cent as 511,828 metric tons of fertilizers costing $338.411 million were imported as compared to the imports of 612,684 million valued $374.706 million of the same period of the last year.
Meanwhile, 11,120 metric tons of the insecticides valued at $59.268 million were imported during the period under review, as compared to the imports of 8,854 metric tons worth of $45.213 million of the same period of the last year, the data revealed.
In the first four months of the current financial year, the import of plastic material grew by 14.38 per cent as 834,292 metric tons of plastic material worth $974.079 million were imported as compared to the imports of 666,825 metric tons valued at $851.630 million of the same period of the last year, it added.
The import of medicinal products also grew by 19.74 per cent as 14,131 metric tons of medicinal products costing $500.162 million were also imported during the period under review, as compared to the imports of 12,181 metric tons valued at $417.720 million of the same period of the last year, it added.
In the first four months of the current financial year, the country spent $1.786 billion on the imports of agricultural and other chemicals, as against the import of $1.685 billion of the same period of the last year, the data revealed.

PNSC convenes corporate briefing session for FY-2025

By
Samina Ch
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KARACHI, Nov 27 (APP):Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) convened its Corporate Briefing Session (CBS) for the financial year ended 30 June 2025 here at PNSC Building.
The session was attended by analysts, investors, and representatives of brokerage houses, whereas the senior management of PNSC shared the Corporation’s operational performance, financial results, fleet utilization, future business plans, and key strategic developments.
During the presentation, the CEO highlighted the Corporation’s continued progress despite global market fluctuations and reaffirmed its focus on strengthening Pakistan’s maritime footprint through capacity enhancement, operational efficiency, and policy advocacy. The briefing was followed by an interactive discussion where analysts and participants engaged in queries relating to PNSC’s operations, expansion plan, taxation policies, competitiveness and sectoral challenges.
Various financial investors from mutual funds and brokerage houses joined the session online, with some attending in person. Investors sought clarity on the Corporation’s long-term growth strategy. Responding to these queries, the CEO stated that PNSC is currently investing in three Tier III, modern IMO-compliant vessels, while tenders for an additional twelve vessels are already in process.
In response to a query from an analyst, Ateeq ur Rehman, on the taxation burden faced by national flag carriers, the CFO explained that although the Shipping Policy grants tax exemptions until 2030, the Finance Act has introduced an 18% sales tax on vessel imports, increasing industry costs. He added that PNSC has approached the Federal Board of Revenue to seek relief through exemption/ installment-based payment arrangement for this sales tax.
Participants acknowledged the Corporation’s transparency, policy advocacy efforts, and continued commitment to national shipping development. The session concluded with appreciation expressed by PNSC management to stakeholders, analysts and shareholders for their continued confidence and support.

SAPM Haroon calls for fast-tracking MoUs with Uzbekistan

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan on Thursday called for fast-tracking the implementation of memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and agreements reached between Pakistan and Uzbekistan to further strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.
He said while chairing a high-level meeting attended by Uzbekistan’s Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev, Pakistan’s Commercial Attaché in Tashkent Zaheer Abbas, and the President and delegation of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), said a news release.
SAPM Haroon said that Pakistan–Uzbekistan relations are growing rapidly across multiple sectors. He said that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision, Pakistan is strengthening ties with Central Asian states.
He added that the new National Industrial Policy and regulatory reforms aim to restore investor confidence. “Tourism holds tremendous potential, and Pakistan intends to deepen collaboration with Uzbekistan in this sector,” he said.
SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan also appreciated the RCCI for effectively leading delegations from various sectors.
He instructed all stakeholders to ensure prompt follow-up on MoUs and agreements reached during the visit.
“These agreements and joint initiatives must be operationalized to further strengthen bilateral cooperation,” he emphasized.
Uzbek Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev appreciated the delegation’s visit and the growing interest in expanding economic ties.
The RCCI delegation briefed SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan on its recent 150-member business visit to Uzbekistan. The delegation included representatives from health, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and the construction sector.
RCCI President said that the key objective of the visit was to enhance bilateral trade and investment between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
He shared that the delegation visited the Uzbek Pharma Park, Excellence Center, ICT Center, Technical University, and Business Center, expressing satisfaction over the facilities provided there.
The RCCI delegation noted that the Uzbek Pharma Park offers exemptions on land, property, and water taxes, in addition to zero customs duty on construction materials. “Pakistan should also establish similar pharma parks,” the RCCI President emphasized.
RCCI also highlighted the need to expand preferential trade agreements between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, terming it essential for deepened economic engagement.
Multiple opportunities exist for cooperation in sectors including tourism and defence, the RCCI observed. The Chamber appreciated SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan’s interest and support for the delegation’s Uzbekistan visit.

ANF seizes over 655 kg of narcotics worth Rs 68.6 mln in nationwide operations

By
Samina Ch
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0
RAWALPINDI, Nov 27 (APP):The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has seized more than 655 kilograms of drugs valued at Rs 68.6 million and arrested seven suspected traffickers in nine operations carried out across the country, an ANF Headquarters spokesman said on Thursday.
He said 7 kg of hashish was recovered from a motorcyclist near Yaro Railway Crossing in Pishin, adding that the suspect confessed to supplying narcotics to students of educational institutions.
In another action, 6 grams of cocaine were recovered from a parcel sent from the Netherlands at a courier office in Chaklala Garrison, Rawalpindi.
The spokesman said ANF teams also seized 14 kg of hashish from a motorcyclist near a hotel in Yaro Sector, Pishin, and another 14 kg from a rider near the Eastern Bypass in Quetta.
In Hyderabad, 12 kg of hashish was recovered from a vehicle on the National Highway, and the accused was taken into custody.
He added that 1.8 kg of ice and 800 grams of opium were found in possession of a man and a woman travelling in a vehicle near Bella Road in Sector G-10, Islamabad, while 7.2 kg of hashish was seized from an accused near Mandi Mor in Islamabad.
In Karaiz, District Chaman, ANF recovered 100 kg of ice, and in a major raid in Khalilabad, Satellite Town, Turbat (District Kech), the force seized 499 kg of hashish.
Cases have been registered against all arrested suspects under the Narcotics Control Act, and further investigations are underway, the spokesman said.

KP CM strongly condemns Hangu terrorists attack

By
Samina Ch
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0
PESHAWAR, Nov 27 (APP):Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Thursday condemned the terrorist attack on a police checkpoint in Hangu where three policemen were martyred.
The Chief Minister said that terrorists have no religion, and such cowardly attacks can never weaken our resolve and determination in fight against terrorism.
Paying tribute to the martyred personnel, the Chief Minister said that the martyrs are the pride of the nation, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
He prayed for the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs and for patience for their families, saying that the provincial government stands firmly with the families of the martyrs in every difficult moment.
Sohail Afridi reaffirmed his commitment that the war against terrorism will continue with even stronger resolve, and all resources will be utilized to establish peace.
 He said that the attack by the enemies of peace is highly condemnable, and terrorists are the common enemy of both Pakistan and its people.
CM added that terrorists want to disrupt the peace of the province, but their designs will never be allowed to succeed.
Chief Minister said that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police is bravely confronting terrorists, and the sacrifices of the police martyrs will not go in vain.

CCP, DRAP sign MoU to strengthen cooperation

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) to enhance cooperation and strengthen oversight of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical and therapeutic goods market through improved data and information sharing.
The MoU was inked by Salman Amin, Member CCP, and Dr. Obaidullah, Chief Executive Officer DRAP. The ceremony held at CCP’s head office was witnessed by Member CCP Saeed Ahmed Nawaz, Aamar Latif, Director Legal Affairs DRAP, and senior officials from both organizations,said a release issued here on Thursday.
The MoU establishes a framework for closer coordination. Both institutions will share information, support joint enforcement, and strengthen monitoring of deceptive marketing practices, unfair competition, and misleading claims in the therapeutic goods and Over-the-Counter (OTC) categories.
The agreement also covers digital data exchange, capacity building, and collaboration in research and policy analysis.
Speaking at the ceremony, Member CCP Salman Amin said the partnership will ensure fair market practices which help economy and protect consumers.
This collaboration is more imminent when online advertising and e-commerce have increased the risk of deceptive practices.
He said that the pharmaceutical sector has a direct impact on public at large and both institutions have to work together to ensure transparency and fair competition.
DRAP CEO Dr. Obaidullah said federal regulatory bodies operate under defined mandates but share common goals in certain domains. He noted that price deregulation and supply challenges require coordinated oversight.
 He added that harmonization and collaboration between institutions improve regulatory outcomes and help maintain availability and fair pricing of essential medicines.
The CCP and DRAP affirmed their commitment to implement the MoU through practical, joint actions that support consumer welfare and strengthen Pakistan’s health-related markets.
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