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Efforts on to resolve autoparts industry’s problems: Haroon Akhtar

By
Asif Jalal
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LAHORE, May 24 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production (SAPM) Haroon Akhtar said on Saturday that government is trying to solve the problems faced by the auto parts manufacturing industry.
Chairing a meeting with representatives of Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM) and Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA)here at SMEDA office, he added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is committed to provide facilities to the business community and the industrialists.
Federal Secretary Industries and Production Saif Anjum, Engineering Development Board (EDB) Chief Executive Officer Khuda Bakhsh Ali and other officials concerned also attended the meeting.
The meeting emphasized the need to increase the productivity of automotive parts at national level and discussed issues related to energy costs and taxes to increase investment in PAMA automotive parts.
Addressing the meeting, the SAPM Haroon Akhtar said that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s vision is to make the auto industry competitive not only regionally but also globally. Stressing the importance of creating basic guidelines to solve the problems of the automotive parts industry, he said that the government is introducing reforms to bring Pakistan’s automotive industry up to world standards, for which local industrialists are being encouraged.
The government also wants to solve this vital industry’s issues pertaining to taxes and various duties. He reiterated that Ministry of Industries and Production would take effective measures to facilitate the automotive parts industry. “The government and the Ministry of Industries and Production are always there to guide the business community at all times to solve their problems,” he remarked.
Haroon Akhtar Khan said, “As per vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, we are committed to ensure provision of all possible facilities to the business community.”
He mentioned that Ministry of Industries and Production and Engineering Development Board is taking all stakeholders aboard, while focusing all autoparts chain so as to reform and formulate such strategies and policies which are beneficial for the industry.

Social media platform ‘X’ faces global outage

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, May 24 (APP):Social media platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) is currently experiencing a mass outage affecting several countries, including Pakistan.
According to a statement issued by Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA), this disruption follows a similar global outage faced by the platform on Thursday, May 22, which lasted for several hours before being resolved by the platform.
PTA’s investigation into the matter has confirmed that there are no technical issues at Pakistan’s internet gateways. All other internet services across the country remain fully functional.
Global internet observatory NetBlocks has also confirmed that the outages being experienced by ‘X’ are international in nature and not related to any country-level internet disruptions or filtering.
PTA continues to monitor the situation and will keep the public informed of any significant updates.

Govt taking historic steps to protect wildlife : CM

By
Asif Jalal
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LAHORE, May 24 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has emphasized the importance of protecting the Markhor and preserving wildlife across the country.
In her message on International Day of the Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, she said,“The purpose of observing this day globally is to raise awareness about the conservation of the Markhor and to protect endangered wildlife species.”
The CM noted that the Markhor, known for its majestic appearance, is native to regions such as Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kohistan, and Hunza. “The Markhor is not only a symbol of strength and beauty but also represents Pakistan’s rich natural heritage,” she added.
Highlighting the broader significance of conservation efforts, CM Maryam Nawaz said, “Protecting the Markhor is a reflection of our commitment to biodiversity and ecological balance.” She reaffirmed the Punjab government’s dedication to safeguarding wildlife and called for collective efforts in preserving endangered species. “We pledge to work together to protect not just the Markhor, but all vulnerable species,” she said. “Historic steps are being taken in Punjab to ensure the protection and sustainability of our wildlife.”

CM inaugurates Alumni Arts Festival, says ‘Art Is Our Weapon of Peace’

By
Asif Jalal
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KARACHI, May 24 (APP):Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Saturday said, “Art is our weapon of peace, and our youth are its fearless warriors, we have to strengthen them further so that they keep performing for peace, and tranquillity.”
He said this while inaugurating a three-day Arts Alumni Festival 2025 at the School of Visual & Performing Arts, Sindh, under the patronage of the Arts Council. The festival celebrates five decades of excellence in arts education.
The Chief Minister praised the Arts Council’s role in shaping creative minds and dedicated the festival to the martyrs of Pakistan and the valour of the Armed Forces, calling it a symbol of national unity and resilience.
Murad Shah extended his heartfelt congratulations to the students and the organising administration for the successful commencement of the festival. He commended the Arts Council for dedicating the event to Pakistan’s martyrs and the heroic successes of the Pakistan Army, calling it a praiseworthy initiative that reflects national unity and pride.
“We are, first and foremost, a nation. Our armed forces are the pride of Pakistan, standing vigilant over every inch of our homeland,” said the CM. He especially acknowledged the leadership of the armed forces for their firm and effective response to recent threats posed by anti-peace elements, which, he said, boosted national morale and strengthened global recognition of the Pakistani armed forces.
Mr Shah went on to say that the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s martyrs are the foundation of the country’s defense, recalling key moments such as the 1965 war, the 1971 conflict, and the Kargil operation as examples of national resilience and bravery.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to the Arts Council of Karachi for consistently organizing exemplary academic, artistic, and literary events. He noted that the Arts Alumni Festival 2025 would inspire young students to chart new directions in their creative journeys, through activities including panel discussions, theatre, music, painting exhibitions, and informative workshops.
“Every time I visit the Arts Council, I leave with renewed hope. The energy, innovation, and potential of our youth assure me that the future of Pakistan is in capable hands,” he added.
The Chief Minister also addressed the threats posed by anti-peace forces targeting students and youth. He cited recent tragic incidents, including the terrorist attack on a school bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan, which claimed the lives of several innocent students, and an attack on an educational institution in Bahawalpur.
He strongly condemned these attacks and affirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice while standing in solidarity with the families of the victims.
“The enemies of peace use guns and explosives, but our students wield the power of the pen and the brush. Through education and art, you must defeat their hateful ideologies,” the CM urged the audience.
Mr Shah highlighted that institutions like the Arts Council are not just nurturing creativity but are also building a peaceful identity for Sindh and Pakistan on the global stage.
“We are a nation shaped by art, literature, and culture. Our students are leading in fields like IT and have the skills to disrupt the digital strategies of our enemies,” he remarked.

Summer season Traffic Plan for Murree issued

By
Asif Jalal
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0
RAWALPINDI, May 24 (APP):Chief Traffic Officer Murree Mughees Ahmed Hashmi on Saturday issued a coordinated traffic plan for the summer season Murree district as millions of tourists from all over the country visit the hilly station.
Under the plan devised as per the orders of Additional Inspector General Traffic Punjab Mirza Faran Baig, additional traffic police personnel had been deployed in Murree for the convenience of tourists, CTO Hashmi said.
More than 220 traffic staff would perform duties to keep traffic flow smoothly in the Murree district, he added.
The CTO said five roads of the Murree city had been declared one-way, while the Mall Road would be completely closed for all traffic.
He said there would be a complete ban on the entry of heavy vehicles into Murree city from 7 a.m. to 12 midnight. The heavy vehicles supplying food and water would be allowed from 12 midnight to 7 a.m.
CTO Hashmi further said the Murree district had been divided into three circles and five sectors while Traffic Officer Murree Sohail Shahzad would supervise all the duties.
He said during the summer season, parking of vehicles would be allowed only at the designated places. All the city  squares had been made no-parking zones, with forklifts deployed, he added.
The CTO said the violation of one-way would not be tolerated under any circumstances, and strict legal action would be taken against the violators.
He advised the commuters to follow lines and lanes, and not to go for double-lane under any circumstances.
CTO Hashmi said that awareness about the traffic plan would be given to the tourists through pamphlets at all entry points of Murree, besides the public address system at all main intersections of the city.
He said a control room had been set up at the City Traffic Police Headquarters, Sunny Bank, which could be contacted at telephone number 051-9269200 in case of traffic problems anywhere in the district.
He asked the visitors to strictly follow the instructions mentioned on the signboards and traffic wardens officers standing at the points on the road.

CM condoles death of 4 family members in traffic accident

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, May 24 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed deep grief and sorrow over the tragic death of four members of a family in a traffic accident on the GT Road in Okara.
Extending her heartfelt condolences, the chief minister prayed for the departed souls and offered sympathy and support to the bereaved family. “Our prayers are with the grieving family during this time of immense loss,” she said.

CM awards Rs 500,000  to London marathon champion Mona Khan

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, May 24 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met Mona Khan, the gold medalist of the London Marathon 2025, and her coach Muhammad Yousuf on Saturday to honor their remarkable international achievement.
During the meeting, the CM awarded cash prizes of Rs 500,000 each to both the athlete and her coach, commending their dedication and hard work.
“Mona Khan has proven that female athletes are second to none,” said CM Maryam Nawaz as Mona Khan presented her the gold medal she won in the 42.2-kilometer London Marathon. The CM also autographed a T-shirt at Mona’s request. In a gesture of gratitude, Mona draped the Chief Minister in Sindh’s traditional Ajrak and presented her with a hand-drawn pencil sketch.
CM Maryam Nawaz congratulated both Mona Khan and Coach Muhammad Yousuf, reiterating her government’s commitment to promoting sports across the province. “Our athletes are making Pakistan proud on international platforms,” she said, adding, “The Punjab Sports Program has been launched to provide resources, training, and encouragement to athletes, especially youth.”
The CM emphasized her government’s efforts to empower female athletes. “Over 1,300 women participated in Punjab’s first-ever Pink Games held in 2024, setting a new record. We also increased the prize money for the event from Rs 5 million to Rs 10 million to reward their talent and dedication,” she noted. “We are committed to creating a supportive environment where female athletes can thrive.”
Mona Khan expressed her gratitude to CM Maryam Nawaz. She said, “A daughter of Punjab has shown great respect for a daughter of Sindh, adding, This recognition has truly honored and encouraged me. I dedicate my medal to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.”
Praising the CM’s leadership, Mona Khan said, “She is not only an excellent administrator but also an inspiring woman.”
She stated, “Pakistani women are strong, courageous, and determined.”
Mona Khan also acknowledged the positive impact of youth-focused initiatives under the CM’s leadership, including scholarship and laptop schemes. “Whenever I win honors internationally, the name of Pakistan, and that of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, will be proudly associated.”
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Chief Secretary Punjab, and Secretary Sports were also present during the meeting.

Governor KP emphasizes deepening ties with Africa

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, May 24 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, highlighted Pakistan’s “enduring and sincere” friendship with African nations during a keynote address as the chief guest at a prestigious event marking ‘Africa Day’ here on Saturday.
Speaking at the ceremony, which drew a large gathering including UN Resident Coordinator Muhammad Yahya, ambassadors and high commissioners from African nations, members of parliament, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Governor Kundi emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation in trade, education, cultural exchange, and joint development initiatives.
“The more we connect with one another, the stronger we become,” he said.
Extending heartfelt congratulations to the people and nations of Africa on the occasion, the Governor remarked on the significance of this year’s Africa Day theme, “Revisiting Our History, Shaping Our Future,” saying that it resonates deeply not just with Africa but also with Pakistan.
He praised the cultural heritage, unity, and self-reliance efforts of African nations, drawing parallels with values shared by Pakistan, particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, such as sovereignty, cultural diversity, and people-centered development.
Governor Kundi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its relationships with African countries and expressed a strong desire to enhance collaboration across various sectors.

DPM, Azeri FM discuss bilateral ties

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, May 25 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Saturday held a telephone conversation with Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov.

They discussed the entire gamut of bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international developments. The two leaders also discussed the forthcoming visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Azerbaijan.

CM puts administration on high alert amid heavy rainfall forecast

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, May 24 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the provincial administration and rescue departments to remain on high alert in view of the forecast of heavy rainfall and potential storms.
The CM issued urgent instructions following reports of torrential downpours that inundated low-lying areas of Rawalpindi and other cities.
Taking immediate notice of the situation, CM Maryam Nawaz instructed administrative officers to implement prompt and effective measures to mitigate the impact of the heavy rain. In particular, she ordered emergency drainage operations in the affected low-lying areas of Rawalpindi to prevent further water accumulation.
The CM further directed WASA (Water and Sanitation Agency) officials in Rawalpindi to be physically present in the field and to mobilize all available resources to ensure rapid water drainage. Emphasizing the importance of timely response, she underscored the need for coordinated action to safeguard public life and property.
The CM issued precautionary directives to all city administrations across Punjab to undertake necessary preparations in anticipation of further rainfall.
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