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Usman Tahir meets Myanmar Ambassador; discuss cultural cooperation

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP): Syed Usman Tahir, Honorary Advisor to the Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, held a meeting with the H.E. U Wunna Han, Ambassador of the Republic Union of Myanmar to Pakistan, in Islamabad.
Usman Tahir meets Myanmar Ambassador; discuss cultural cooperation
During the meeting, Syed Usman Tahir presented books published by the Heritage Ministry featuring miniature paintings, calligraphy, and other artistic works. He also briefed the ambassador about Pakistan’s rich cultural traditions and diverse heritage, said a press release on Sunday.
Usman Tahir meets Myanmar Ambassador; discuss cultural cooperation
Ambassador U Wunna Han expressed keen interest in enhancing cultural cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in the fields of Gandhara Civilization, community-based projects, and collaborative cultural activities. He highlighted the potential for future joint initiatives to deepen bilateral cultural ties.
It was agreed that Ambassador U Wunna Han will soon call on Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, to further explore avenues of cooperation, including cultural exhibitions, workshops, and broader international cultural exchanges.

Govt is committed for economic, trade integration with potential African market: Ambassador Asghar

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP): Additional Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan has said that the government was committed to economic and trade integration with the African market according to the vision of “look African Campaign.”
He shared this in a roundtable with African envoys serving in Islamabad on “Pakistan Africa Connectivity – Engage Africa Policy of Pakistan” hosted by Center of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR) in collaboration with “Pakistan in the World” media group, said a release issued here on Monday.Govt is committed for economic, trade integration with potential African market: Ambassador Asghar
The event was chaired by H.E Hamid Asghar Khan while Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, President Pakistan Africa Institute for Development Research (PAIDAR) graced the event with his special appearance as keynote speaker. Saleem Ahmad Ranjha, renowned ex official and business consultant Ms Amna Malik Chairperson COPAIR, Zahid Lateef Khan Head of Diplomatic Committee of RCCI, Founder of Islamabad Stock Exchange, renowned spiritual personality Dr Afshan Malik and Tazeen Akhtar along with 10 Ambassadors, High Commissioners,and DHMs of African Embassies out of total 14 Missions participated in the roundtable.
They included HE Dr. Brahim Romani of Algeria, Ms Harerimana Fatou of Rwanda, Salih Mohamed Ahmed of Sudan, HE Titus Mehliswa Johnathan Abu Basutu of Zimbabwe, HE Lt. General (R) Peter Mbogo Njiru of Kenya, Rudolph Pierre Jordaan of South Africa, Yushau Mohammed of Nigeria, Mahmed Abdirahman Hersi of Somalia, DHM of Morocco, Umar Shahid Butt, Vice Consul Ghana.
The envoys shared the present status of cooperation between their countries and Pakistan. They pointed out the gaps to bridge and suggested the measures,if taken, can enhance the level of trade between the sides.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan has directed enhanced engagement with Africa, especially in trade, investment and commercial ties.
The TDAP shall be holding a single country exhibition in conjunction with MoFA and Pak Embassy at Addis Ababa from 16-18 October, 2025 with participation of over 100 Pakistani exhibitors.
Many African countries are willing to incentivize investment in industry and joint ventures to boost local manufacturing, said a release issued here on Sunday.
Agricultural cooperation and health care are but two of the areas where tremendous scope for collaboration exists.
Additional Secretary MOFA, Mr. Hamid Asghar Khan took note of the proposals and assured the envoys of every possible effort to do whatever is needful.
Mr. Hamid Asghar Khan expressed his mind and vision on how to increase connectivity and cooperation with African countries implementing the engage Africa policy of Pakistan. He mentioned air connectivity between Pakistan and Ethiopia as a direct link with Africa.
He referred to another promising project to connect Africa through the sea route.” Pakistan authorities are working on establishing direct shipping and port connectivity between Pakistani and East African ports.”
He also highlighted the sacrifices of Pakistani soldiers in their service in UN peacekeeping missions in Africa.
He said , 280 soldiers of our security forces have laid their lives for peace and stability in Africa. That speaks a lot about the strong bonds between Africa and Pakistan. “We have spilled our blood for peace in Africa, ” he noted.
Mr. Hamid Asghar Khan said Africa is the continent of today with a population of 1.6 billion and 54 countries. Pakistani trade with Africa has potential of much more than USD 5.4 billion per annum only.
He said , Pakistan and African countries are developing countries having common challenges. We will move forward with a focus on project to project basis as per need in different countries.
Discussing the potential, he said, the healthcare sector alone can take the bilateral trade to USD 10 billion.
He emphasized direct trade instead of through third parties that increases the prices for the end customers. He called for an end to the middle party and gave examples of Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali and Chad in this regard who have formed an independent sovereign alliance.
Hamid Asghar Khan underscored the importance of the private sector to tap the real potential of trade and economic prospects. He encouraged the business community to develop B2B connections and devise joint ventures.
On P2P and cultural linkages, Mr. Hamid Asghar Khan stressed the need to organise food, music, fashion festivals to bring the people closer and have knowledge about one another. He mentioned education as one of the most promising sectors to enhance friendship among the youth of two sides.
Mushahid Hussain Syed, in his concluding remarks, recalled his lifetime memories cherishing his visits to different capitals and meetings with leaders of African countries including Nelson Mandela, Ahmad bin Bela and others.
He expressed his pleasure at the presence of maximum representation of Africa in the roundtable as A for Algeria to Z for Zimbabwe.
He said, Africa is a land of opportunities and Pakistan has historical relations with this continent. He mentioned the role of Africa for the development of the global south. He expressed his full confidence that Pakistan and Africa cooperation will be taken to new heights soon.

Murad grieves over death of 3 sanitation workers

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KARACHI, Sep 21 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah while expressing grief over the deaths of three sanitation workers during sewer cleaning in the Garden area, he said such individuals perform one of the most difficult and hazardous jobs.
He termed them valuable members of society and ordered full medical treatment for a worker who was shifted to the hospital in critical condition.

Meeting reviews progress of Nawaz Sharif IT City

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LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):A review meeting on the ongoing development works at Nawaz Sharif IT City (NSIT) was held under the chairmanship of Imran Amin, CEO of the Central Business District (CBD) Punjab.
According to project updates shared during the meeting, the water-bound and sub-base work on the 4.3-kilometer-long and 250-feet-wide main circular road is nearing completion. Asphalting is scheduled to begin by the end of this month. In addition, the main drainage system of NSIT City is 85% complete.
Once the traffic and transport plan is finalized, more than 2,000 vehicles will be accommodated within the city’s infrastructure.
CEO Imran Amin stated, “NSIT City is a game-changing project for Pakistan’s technology sector. Its timely completion remains our top priority.”
NSIT City is a flagship government-backed initiative aimed at positioning Lahore as a central hub for Pakistan’s digital future. The project includes an IT District, Education City, and Film City, providing cutting-edge infrastructure for technology firms, universities, and the creative industries.

Dr. Nafisa Shah’s message on International Day of Peace

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP): Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) MNA Dr. Nafisa Shah, in her message on the International Day of Peace, on Sunday emphasized the importance of promoting global harmony and solidarity in the face of ongoing conflicts and human rights violations.

She said that the International Day of Peace serves as a reminder of the vital need to foster peace across the world. “Conflicts, genocide and human rights abuses in various parts of the world stand in stark contrast to the ideals of peace,” she noted.

Highlighting the plight of conflict-affected regions, she said, “The people of Palestine, Kashmir and other territories continue to face unimaginable hardships, displacement and loss of lives.”

Dr. Nafisa Shah reaffirmed that the PPP has always raised its voice for peace and human rights. “Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto founded the PPP to safeguard the rights of the people, while Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto courageously stood against dictatorship,” she stated,said in a Press Release issued here on Sunday.

Calling on the international community, she stressed the collective responsibility to resolve conflicts, ensure civilian protection and work towards peace and justice.

“We must stand in solidarity with those affected by conflicts and support their struggle for freedom, justice, and human rights,” Dr. Shah urged.

She concluded by reaffirming the need for tolerance, compassion and a renewed commitment to peace on this important day.

President Zardari returns after visit to China

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):President Asif Ali Zardari Sunday returned to Pakistan after his visit to China.
The President visited Chengdu, Shanghai, Urumqi and Kashgar in China, met Chinese provincial leadership and discussed bilateral ties, CPEC and future corridors.
During the meetings, he also exchanged views on regional peace, development and cooperation and several memorandums of understanding were signed.
President Zardari’s visit is a renewal of commitment to Pak-China strategic partnership.

Minister Salik Hussain’s Italy visit boosts bilateral ties, diaspora support

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, undertook a successful visit to Italy, where he engaged in community events, official meetings, and strategic dialogues aimed at enhancing Pakistan-Italy bilateral relations and celebrating the contributions of the Pakistani diaspora.
In Rome, the Federal Minister Ch.Salik Hussain attended the Independence Day and Marka e Haq ceremony, chaired a town hall meeting, reviewed consular services, and welcomed the resumption of NADRA services after five years. On this occasion, he presented Achievement Awards 2025 to distinguished members of the Pakistani community and Italian citizens for their excellence in education, medicine, sports, literature, research, and social services.
The Minister said that the event marked a significant milestone in promoting Pakistan-Italy relations and celebrating the accomplishments of overseas Pakistanis.
During his visit, Chaudhry Salik Hussain also held an important meeting with Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi.
Both sides agreed to further enhance bilateral cooperation and ensure effective implementation of the recently signed Migration and Labour Mobility Agreement.
The Federal Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to creating more employment opportunities for its workforce in Italy, safeguarding their rights, and addressing the challenges of irregular migration.
It is noteworthy that in 2024, the Pakistani community in Italy sent a record USD 1.121 billion in remittances, while bilateral trade between Pakistan and Italy reached USD 1.5 billion, with Pakistan enjoying a trade surplus of USD 800 million– a testament to growing economic cooperation and mutual trust.
The Federal Minister also met with the Pakistani community in Brescia, where he assured them that the Government of Pakistan is taking stronger and more effective measures for the welfare and resolution of issues faced by overseas Pakistanis. He encouraged community members to live harmoniously with their families, embrace greater integration into the local system, and promote unity and cooperation.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain thanked the  overseas Pakistanis for warm welcome.
The visit not only reinforced the Pakistan-Italy partnership but also served as a morale boost for the vibrant Pakistani community living in Italy.

Flood water refuses to recede, pump prices refuse to fall – communities share to endure the double crisis

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By Roy Zia Ur Rahman
ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):As floodwaters continue to stagnate across parts of Pakistan, thousands of families are still struggling to clear their homes and start rebuilding. Experts told that water in low-lying areas could remain for weeks — even months — making life harder for already displaced families.
Government departments and local authorities are draining water from roads and city centers. But in many towns and villages, people are doing it themselves, using water pumps to clear homes, basements, and courtyards. These pumps — once affordable — are now rare and costly.
Flood water refuses to recede, pump prices refuse to fall – communities share to endure the double crisis
Pump Prices and Market Trends
In Sialkot, traders told APP pump prices have risen sharply: a 1-inch pump now sells for Rs 22,000, a 3-inch for Rs 27,000, and a 4-inch for Rs 34,000. Demand is highest for 1-inch to 3-inch pumps, as flood-hit families try to clear water from homes and fields.
Pipes have also become more expensive, with an increase of Rs 5 to 10 per foot. For families who lost belongings in the floods, even buying basic hoses is a burden.
Flood water refuses to recede, pump prices refuse to fall – communities share to endure the double crisis
“We’re not trying to profit off people’s misery,” said Imran Qureshi, a pump supplier in Dera Ghazi Khan. “Our costs are up too — fuel is expensive, parts are delayed, and demand is huge. We’re trying to meet needs, but there just aren’t enough pumps,” he told APP.
Technical Issues: Mud, Voltage, and Repairs
The struggle doesn’t end after buying or renting pumps. In many villages, pumps break down due to low generator voltage and sticky flood mud. Without filters, clay-like silt clogs the impeller, forcing families to open and clean the machine often.
“People are running pumps without strainers, and the impellers jam,” one mechanic told APP. “You have to keep opening the motor just to scrape it clean.”
Repair costs are also rising. “Copper wire is almost Rs 200 to 300 more per kilogram,” said electrician Mehmood. “When water damages windings, rewinding costs go up.”
Electrician Asghar added: “Our labor charges are the same, but copper is expensive. People think we’re charging more, but it’s really the material cost,” he told APP.
Rentals and Affordability
Families who can’t buy pumps rent them at Rs 800 to Rs 1,200 per hour. Some pay up to Rs 5,000 a day. For daily wage earners, that’s unaffordable.
“I paid Rs 5,000 per day just to rent a pump for three days,” said Shahnaz Bibi, a widow in Muzaffargarh. “That’s more than what my son earns in a week. But we had no choice — the water was inside our home and our children were getting sick,” she told APP.
Generators: A Costly Necessity
In border villages near Sialkot like Kundan Hor, power remains cut. Families rely on generators, especially 1 kVA sets. But rising fuel prices make it costly.
“The customers have no money — everything has drowned,” said Sajid, owner of Sialkot Material Store. “Still, we sold pumps at reduced rates to NGOs, keeping almost no profit. We understand people’s pain,”
NGOs and Community Support
NGOs like Al-Khidmat Foundation and the Cantonment Board bought pumps in bulk from Sialkot traders for use in Pasrur, Sambrial, Daska, Bajwat, and other affected areas. Mid-sized pumps are now used where water is receding, helping residents clear courtyards and fields.
But in places with four to five feet of water, pumping is impossible. “If water surrounds you on all sides, where can you drain it?” asked a relief worker in Multan.
Al-Khidmat’s Multan coordinator, Ismail Taj, told APP fallen poles and broken lines have left many areas without power. “Without generators, pumps are useless,” he said, urging the government to restore electricity fast.
Community Solidarity
Despite the hardships, stories of support keep coming. Families with pumps often share them freely.
“My neighbor gave us his pump for free when he was done,” said Waseem Ali, a schoolteacher in Swat. “We used it one night, then passed it on to another street. Without that, we’d still be underwater.
The Road Ahead
According to government and UN figures shared with APP, over 9,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed this year. Recovery is slow due to high costs and unequal access to tools. Residents are calling for urgent government action — subsidized pumps and fuel, faster drainage, and relief for food, livestock, and shelter.
As floodwaters linger, so do the hardships. But amid rising costs and failing equipment, the resilience of communities — backed by NGOs and fair-minded traders — keeps hope alive.

Peace is humanity’s greatest duty : CM

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LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that the most sacred duty of humanity is to uphold peace, which embodies justice, love and respect.
In her message on International Day of Peace, she paid tribute to those who laid down their lives for this cause, stressing that peace is the first step towards progress and the true antidote to hatred and conflict.
The chief minister said peace is the power that nurtures humanity and serves as the foundation of sustainable development. She noted that genuine stability and prosperity can only emerge in an environment of harmony and fairness.
CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized that Pakistan has always been a torchbearer of peace at the global level and has made unparalleled sacrifices in its pursuit.

Over 3.02 million rescued, as floods devastate Pakistan: NDMA

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP): Over 3.02 million people have been rescued in 5,768 operations, with more than 273,524 relief items distributed and 662,098 people treated in 741 camps established in flood-hit areas since June 26, under the coordinated efforts of NDMA, PDMAs, the Pakistan Army, and other rescue teams, as relentless floods swept through most districts of Pakistan.
According to the latest figures released by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), a total of 3,020,130  individuals have been rescued in 5,768 operations carried out in flood hit areas  since June 26, as part of a coordinated response.
In Punjab, 2,819,767 people were rescued in 4,749 operations. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa saw 14,317 rescues in 211 operations. Sindh reported 184,011 individuals rescued through 753 operations. Balochistan had 19 rescues in 4 operations, while Gilgit-Baltistan evacuated 1,027 people in 25 operations. Azad Jammu and Kashmir saw 940 rescues in 18 operations, and 49 individuals were rescued in 8 operations in the federal capital.
According to the latest figures released by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), at least 1,006 people have lost their lives in flood-affected regions of the country due to torrential rains and flash flooding. The fatalities include 275 children, 568 men, and 163 women.
At least 304 people have died in Punjab, including 110 children, 143 men, and 51 women.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the death toll has reached 504, with 90 children, 338 men, and 76 women among the victims. Sindh has reported 80 fatalities, comprising 35 children, 35 men, and 10 women.
Flash floods have caused widespread devastation in most areas of country , with Balochistan reporting 30 fatalities—including 20 children, 6 men, and 4 women. In Gilgit-Baltistan, 41 people lost their lives, among them 6 children, 26 men, and 9 women. Azad Jammu & Kashmir recorded 38 deaths due to the deluge, comprising 9 children, 17 men, and 12 women.
Meanwhile, in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), 9 individuals perished, including 5 children, 3 men, and 1 woman.
Flood-related incidents have left 1,063 people injured, including 321 children, 450 men, and 292 women.
Punjab reported the highest number of injuries with 661 individuals affected, including 200 children, 258 men, and 203 women, highlighting the severe impact on vulnerable populations across the province.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 218 people sustained injuries, comprising 70 children, 99 men, and 49 women. Meanwhile, Sindh reported 87 injuries, including 39 children, 29 men, and 19 women, reflecting the widespread impact of the floods across age and gender groups.
Balochistan reported five injuries, affecting two children, two men, and one woman. In Gilgit-Baltistan, 52 individuals were injured, including four children, 42 men, and six women, reflecting the widespread human toll of the floods across both regions.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir recorded 37 injuries, including 4 children, 20 men, and 13 women, while the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) reported 3 injuries, affecting 2 children and 1 woman, with no male injuries documented.
In a coordinated humanitarian effort, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in partnership with the Pakistan Army and other stakeholders, has distributed more than 273,524 relief items to communities impacted by recent flooding.
Essential supplies provided include tents, blankets, hygiene kits, ration bags, food packs, and safe drinking water. To bolster recovery operations, additional equipment such as solar panels, de-watering pumps, and generators has also been provided to flood hit people.
Severe flooding has wreaked havoc nationwide, damaging at least 12,569 homes—with 4,128 completely destroyed and 8,441 partially damaged.
The disaster has also resulted in the loss of 6,509 livestock, further deepening the hardship faced by vulnerable communities already struggling with displacement and resource scarcity.
In a proactive move to support flood-affected communities, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has established 1,690 relief and medical camps in flood hit areas.
Among these, 741 medical camps have delivered treatment to 662,098 individuals, while 949 relief camps have provided shelter and essential services to 152,252 people, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.
Since June 26, devastating floods in country have damaged 239 bridges and destroyed approximately 1,981.37 kilometers of roads, severely impacting infrastructure nationwide. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, suffered the loss of 52 bridges and 437.49 km of roads. Azad Jammu & Kashmir follows with 94 bridges and 201.5 km of roads affected.
Other regions also reported varying levels of infrastructure loss. Gilgit-Baltistan sustained damage to 87 bridges and 20.41 kilometers of roads. Balochistan saw the destruction of three bridges and 98.65 kilometers of roads. Sindh reported no bridge damage, but seven kilometers of roads were affected. Islamabad Capital Territory experienced damage to three bridges and 0.03 kilometers of roads.