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11 criminals nabbed

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SARGODHA, Feb 13 (APP):Police on Thursday arrested 11 criminals from various parts of the district and recovered contraband from their possession.
The arrested outlaws were identified as– Inaam, Wasim, Rashid, Imran, Kamran, Suleman, Tahir, Kaleem, Wajahat, Nouman and Khaleel.
The police recovered 2.6-kg hashish,1.3-kg heroin, 345-litre liquor, 12 pistols, four guns, 235 bullets,333 empty bottles and valuables worth millions of rupees from them.
Further investigation was underway.

Couple looted

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FAISALABAD, Feb 13 (APP):Armed robbers deprived a couple of cash, cell phones, ornaments and other valuables in the limits of Civil Line police station.
Police said on Thursday that Abdul Wahid along with his wife, was going on motorcycle near Noor Shah Wali shrine when armed dacoits riding on motorbike intercepted them and looted valuables from them.Police registered case.
Meanwhile, the thieves stole fans, electric motors, water pump and electric wires worth thousands of rupees from a power loom factory located in Rehmanabad, Ghulam Muhammadabad area.
On the report of factory owner Azmat Ali, the police registered a case and launched investigation.

ICCI -NEECA host awareness session on electric vehicle charging infrastructure

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP):The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) in collaboration with the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) hosted a key awareness session titled ‘Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure and Battery Swapping Regulations 2024’ at the Chamber House.
The event saw a strong turnout from members of the business community, emphasizing the growing interest in the future of electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable energy solutions in Pakistan, said a press release issued here on Thursday.
During the welcome address, Nasir Mansoor Qureshi, President of ICCI, underscored the Chamber’s dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment that promotes entrepreneurship and economic growth. He also highlighted ICCI’s role in bridging the gap between industry and academia, encouraging fresh graduates to take an entrepreneurial path rather than merely seeking jobs.
He stressed the need for Pakistan to embrace modern, sustainable practices in alignment with global trends, noting that effective collaboration between policy-makers, industry leaders, and stakeholders is crucial for the successful implementation of EV infrastructure regulations.
The collaboration between ICCI and NEECA marks a significant step towards fostering the development of electric vehicle infrastructure in Pakistan, paving the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future, he concluded.
Dr. Sardar Mohazzam, Managing Director of NEECA, delivered the keynote address, explaining the newly introduced regulations aimed at promoting the establishment of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations and Battery Swapping Stations nationwide.
These regulations are designed to accelerate the adoption of EVs in Pakistan by creating a streamlined, supportive ecosystem. Key features of the initiative include a one-window operation for ease of business, cost-effective electricity tariffs for EV charging, and the encouragement of public-private partnerships to expand the EV network.
Dr. Mohazzam also highlighted the importance of ensuring grid readiness, supporting small-scale enterprises, and contributing to Pakistan’s emission reduction efforts.
Syed Ahsan Abbas, Director of Electrical NEECA, presented a detailed overview of the registration process, operational guidelines, and enforcement mechanisms related to the EV infrastructure. His presentation addressed the attendees’ concerns, providing clarity on the regulations and how they will benefit investors and the broader business community.
In his remarks, Naeem Siddiqui, Special Advisor to the ICCI President, emphasized the need to build trust and confidence among potential investors, urging the relevant agencies to focus on addressing concerns and ensuring transparency.
The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, where organizers responded to queries from potential investors, ensuring a clear understanding of the new regulations and opportunities in the EV sector.
Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Senior Vice President of ICCI, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing his optimism that the session would prove invaluable to investors and contribute to the growth of the EV ecosystem in Pakistan.
The session was also attended by ICCI Vice President Nasir Mehmood Chaudhry, Executive Members Waseem Chaudhry, Irfan Chaudhry, Malik Aqeel, Chaudhry Nadeem Ahmed, and other distinguished members of the Chamber.

PSO posts PKR 11.2 billion profit in 1HFY25

ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP): Pakistan State Oil (PSO), the nation’s energy leader, delivered a stable performance in first half of fiscal year 2024-25 (1HFY25), posting a net profit of PKR 11.2 billion and gross sales of PKR 1.74 trillion.

The company’s Board of Management reviewed the group’s performance for the half-year ended December 31, 2024, in a meeting held on February 13, 2025. The group reported a net profit of PKR 9.1 billion translating into earnings per share of PKR 19.48.

Despite a volatile market landscape, the petroleum industry maintained a steady course during the first half of the fiscal year. PSO effectively managed the resulting industry pressures, providing a seamless fuel supply to meet the country’s energy demands.

The company maintained its market position in 1HFY25, with a 47.1% of the white oil segment driven by sales of 3,610 KMT. Sustaining a strong presence in the diesel market, PSO captured 48.1% share of the diesel market, with sales of 1,660 KMT, while its MoGas portfolio secured a market share of 41.5% with 1,601 KMT in sales. The company solidified its leadership in the jet fuel segment, securing a 99.1% market share with total sales of 326.8 KMT.

Furthermore, PSO achieved its highest-ever LPG sales in FY25, with record monthly growth of 22%, reaching 5.2 KMT in December 2024. Total LPG sales reached 27.56 KMT in 1HFY25, reflecting a 10% increase from 1HFY24.

The company continued to drive sustainable growth and enhance its logistics and supply chain capabilities through strategic infrastructure investments. Major developments included the rehabilitation of 3 lubricant tanks at Keamari Terminal B and Lubricant Manufacturing Plant A facilities, adding 3 KMT of capacity, as well as an ongoing expansion involving 4 additional tanks to increase capacity by 7 KMT. Additionally, PSO expanded storage capacity by 25 KMT for PMG and HSD fuels at its Faqirabad depot with the construction of 2 new storage tanks.

The company focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences by significantly expanding its retail footprint, reaching a milestone of 3,610 outlets across the country, complemented by the modernization of 111 convenience stores.

Building on its commitment to operational excellence, PSO expanded its deployment of Dispensing Unit Controllers (DUCs) to 50 additional retail sites, bringing the total coverage to 1,200 locations and enhancing data management and network monitoring capabilities.

The company further raised the bar in retail excellence with the launch of VIBE, its pioneering concept convenience store in Karachi, redefining the retail experience and setting new standards for convenience retailing.

PSO partnered with Pakistan Railways to introduce refueling services at 8 strategic locations nationwide, enhancing logistics efficiency, railway reliability, and environmental sustainability, and ultimately driving economic growth and improved transportation services for the public.

Making a significant impact on the lives of countless Pakistanis, the company contributed PKR 130 million to various non-profits, addressing needs across healthcare, education, youth development, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

The circular debt crisis continues to impact PSO’s financial performance, with receivables totaling PKR 467 billion as of December 31, 2024, including PKR 340 billion owed by SNGPL. The company is working closely with the government to find solutions and resolve this longstanding issue.

Prioritizing customer-centric innovations, PSO continues to deliver value-added services to enhance customer experiences, while also advancing strategic, long-term projects designed to generate substantial shareholder value and sustainable growth.

The management expresses sincere gratitude to all stakeholders including the Board of Management, the Government of Pakistan, Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), shareholders and employees for their continued support and trust.

Pakistan keen to increase trade, investment with Japan: Governor Sindh

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KARACHI, Feb 13 (APP):Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori on Thursday said that Pakistan was keen to increase trade with Japan and the investors of Japan would be provided all support and cooperation under Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) project.
He said this during a meeting with Japanese Ambassador Akamatsu Shichi here at the Governor House on Thursday.
The Japanese Ambassador called on Kamran Tessori at the Governor House and extended invitation to participate in Expo-25 to be held in the Japanese city of Osaka.
Speaking on the occasion, the Japanese Ambassador said that Sindh province is very attractive for investment and Japanese investors were interested for investing their capital in various sectors.
Akamatsu Shichi said that under the Governor’s Initiative, the youth must be taught Japanese language and for his purpose all required support and assistance would be provided by the Embassy of Japan.
Earlier, the Japanese top diplomat was presented with a guard of honor upon his arrival at the Governor House and the Ambassador also planted a sapling at the Governor House as part of the tree plantation campaign.
He later hoisted the flag and wrote his impressions in the visitor’s book.
The Japanese Ambassador also visited the “Bell of Hope” and the Quaid-e-Azam’s historical room.
The Japanese Ambassador further said that the ongoing projects under the Governor’s Initiative will prove to be important for public welfare.
Governor Kamran Tessori told the Ambassador that Japanese investors should benefit the attractive environment in the province by investing their capital in profitable sectors.

Tight security ensured for Cholistan jeep rally

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BAHAWALPUR, Feb 13 (APP):District Police Officer, Bahawalpur, Asad Sarfaraz Khan on Thursday said that tight security measures were ensured during the ongoing event of the 20th International Cholistan Desert Rally.
Over 1,800 police personnel were performing security duty to maintain law and order during the event.
“The police personnel have been deployed along the 500-km designated route.It includes significant desert forts such as –Derawar Fort,Mouj Garh Fort, Marrot Fort, Din Garh Fort,Bhijnot Garh Fort and Jam Garh Fort,” he highlighted.
He maintained that he himself had been monitoring the implementation of the security plan.
It was important to mention that the the rally was started on February 12 and will conclude on February 22,2025.

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

Islamabad : President of Turkiye H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif sign joint declaration of 7th meeting of Turkiye-Pakistan High Level Strategic Cooperation Council on 13 February,2025.

ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP): Pakistan and Turkiye on Thursday exchanged the signed documents of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), protocols and cooperation agreements in various fields to step-up bilateral ties in various fields during the visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Pakistan.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan witnessed exchanges of the accords between the two sides.

On the occasion, PM Shehbaz Sharif and President Erdogan also signed the joint declaration of 7th meeting of High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) to further deepen strategic partnership between Pakistan and Turkiye.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Turkish Minister of Trade Omer Bolat exchanged the signed documents of the declaration on the MoU between Export Credit Bank of Turkiye and Export Import Bank of Pakistan.

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, and Turkish Minister for Trade Omer Bolat exchange documents of the joint ministerial statement on cooperation of the verification of origin certificates used in trade, and an MoU on digitalization of the verification of origin certificates used in trade.

Similarly, an MoU on cooperation in the field of industrial property was also exchanged by Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Turkish Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacir.

In defence sector, an MoU on exchange of military and civilian personnel for social and cultural purposes was exchanged by Minister of Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Turkish Minister of Defence Yasar Guler.

Minister of Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Turkish Minister of Defence Yasar Guler also exchanged the signed documents of MoU on cooperation in Air Force Electronic Warfare and an MoU between the Secretariat of Defence Industries and the Ministry of Defence Production, Pakistan.

Likewise, a protocol on training and cooperation in the field of military health was exchanged between Minister of Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Turkish Minister of Defence Yasar Guler.

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

Another MoU between Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and Naval Research and Development Institute (NRDI) of Pakistan was exchanged by DG NRDI Pakistan Navy, R/Admiral Javed Iqbal HI (M) and Director Turkish Aerospace Industries Dr Mehmet Demiroglu.

In the field of Science and Technology, an MoU for cooperation in halal trade was signed by Minister of Science and Technology Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Turkish Minister of Trade Omer Bolat. Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Turkish Minister of Industries and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacir also exchanged the singed copies of an MoU on the Establishment of Legal Metrology Infrastructure.

Additionally, in National Food Security and Research sector, the two sides signed cooperation agreement on Seed Protocol to amend the agreement. The documents were exchanged between Minister of National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain and Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumakli.

Similarly, in energy sector, the two sides signed protocol to amend the agreement on cooperation in the field of hydrocarbons. The documents were exchanged between Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar.

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

The two ministers also exchanged documents of two MoUs on cooperation in the field of energy transition, and cooperation in the field of mining.

The two sides also signed cooperation agreement in the field of water. The documents were exchanged between Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumakli.

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

Minister of Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Director of Communications Fahrettin Altun exchanged the signed documents of MoUs on cooperation in the field of public relations and communications.

Meanwhile, the two sides signed MoU on the cooperation in the fields of religious services and religious education. The signed documents were exchanged by Minister of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Professor Dr Ali Ebras.

Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacir also exchanged documents of MoU between scientific and technological research council Türkiye & National Textile University (NTU), Faisalabad, for Technical Assistance and development of Pakistan-Türkiye textile technology center.

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

Rana Tanveer Hussain and Hakan Fidan exchanged documents of MoU on technical cooperation in the field of health and pharmaceuticals.

Likewise, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan exchanged the signed documents of MoU in the field of technical cooperation between Central Bank of Turkiye (CBRT) and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

Pakistan, Turkiye ink multiple deals to strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

Attaullah Tarar and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan exchanged two documents of agreement on cultural cooperation, and agreement on co-production in audio visual services.

In addition to exchange of the documents, two MoUs have also been signed at Pakistan-Turkiye Business Forum.

Commissioner inaugurates three-weeks cleanliness, spring plantation drive in Orakzai

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KOHAT, Feb 13 (APP):Commissioner Kohat Division Syed Motasim Billah Shah on Thursday inaugurated three-week cleanliness campaign in Kalaya Lower Orakzai followed by an awareness walk.
The initiative was taken under the Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Program “Awami Agenda”.
 Deputy Commissioner Orakzai Muhammad Irfanuddin and District Police Officer Nazir Khan were also present on the occasion.
During the campaign, cleanliness of garbage, drains and open areas across the district would be ensured and the garbage would be shifted to the allocated locations.
Similarly, cleaning of the streets, provision of clean drinking water, repair of lines etc would also be made.
Commissioner Kohat appealed the people of Orakzai to cooperate with the sanitation staff and put the garbage in the designated dust bins so as to maintain cleanliness in Orakzai district and restore its natural beauty.
Furthermore, the Commissioner Kohat also distributed walnuts, olives and other fruit plants among the citizens under the Billion Tree Plus Campaign.
During the current plantation drive in Orakzai District, two lakh saplings would be planted, which wiuld be maintained and protected by the elders and the people themselves, he said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner Kohat Division also held Kuli Katchery at Kalaya in which DC Orakzai, government officials, elected public representatives and tribal elders were participated.
The individual as well as collective problems of the area were presented on this occasion for which the Commissioner Kohat assured its early solution.
The Commissioner also attended the free medical camp organized by the Health Department with support of the District Administration and Orakzai Scouts at Government High School Jalka Mela Lower Orkazai.
 During the camp, men, women and children were provided free medicines along-with medical examination.
The tribal elders and common people welcomed the holding of free medical camp and Kuli Katchery and thanked the Commissioner Kohat, Orakzai Scouts and the district administration for their efforts.

Foreign exchange rates

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Foreign exchange rates
KARACHI, Feb 13 (APP):The Exchange Rates Committee of Financial Markets Association of Pakistan issued the following Exchange rates bulletin, here on Thursday.
CONVERSION RATES FOR FEBRUARY 13, 2025 FOR FOREIGN CURRENCY FOR FORWARD COVER FOR DEPOSITS (EXCLUDING FE 25 DEPOSITS)
SBP SETTLEMENT VALUE DATE FEBRUARY 18, 2025
     USD      279.2136
     GBP      347.7884
     EUR      289.6562
     JPY        1.8177

ANF recovers over 66 kg drugs in five operations

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ANF
RAWALPINDI, Feb 13 (APP):Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), conducted five operations across the country, arrested six accused and recovered over 66 kg of drugs worth more than Rs 30 million, said an ANF Headquarters spokesman here on Thursday.
He informed that 300 grams hashish was recovered from the possession of an accused rounded up near a college in Mansehra. 12 kg hashish hidden in the shoulder bag of an accused was recovered near a university in Karachi.
The arrested accused confessed to selling drugs to the students of educational institutions.
22.2 kg hashish concealed in the travel bag of the accused was seized on Gulshan-e-Ravi Road in Lahore and the accused was arrested.12 kg opium, 16 kg heroin, and 2 kg ice were recovered from the possession of two accused held near Shahrukh Alam in Multan.
1.964 kg ice was recovered from Jamrud in the Khyber district and an accused was arrested.
Cases have been registered against the arrested accused under the Narcotics Control Act and further investigations are under process.

Youth’s role vital in KP’s Development: Syed Saadat Jahan

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PESHAWAR, Feb 13 (APP):Youth play a crucial role in the development of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as they are empowered by the Right to Information Act (RTI) to monitor public institutions and ensure transparency in governance, said Syed Saadat Jahan, Deputy Director Communication of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission (KPIC).
Addressing a group of selected youth under the ‘Youth Leadership Programitmentm’, organized by the non-governmental organization CGPA here, he said that by utilizing RTI, young individuals could obtain authentic information from government bodies, thereby increasing accountability in public offices.
Jahan explained the procedure for filing RTI requests and encouraged the youth to actively use this tool, particularly in matters of public interest.
“The more RTI requests you file, the greater the pressure on public office-holders to uphold merit and fairness in governance,” he stated.
He emphasized that RTI can be instrumental in ensuring transparency in job recruitment, allocation of public funds, and distribution of public resources.
He urged the participants to utilize this legal framework to promote accountability and good governance in the province.

MoITT through PSEB establish 43 STPs

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP):The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), through the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), has established 43 Software Technology Parks (STPs) across the country, including in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
These parks host over 350 IT and IT-enabled Services (ITeS) companies, employing 18,000 professionals across a combined covered area of 1.9 million square feet. Notably, 20% of the workforce in these STPs consists of women, said an official of the Ministry of IT.
These facilities, set up between FY 2022-24, are located in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Gilgit, Rahim Yar Khan, Faisalabad, Swat, Quetta, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Gujrat, Jamshoro, Nawabshah, Gakuch, Bahawalpur, and Khuzdar.
The STPs contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy, generating $100 million annually in foreign exchange earnings and $15 million in domestic revenue.To further enhance the country’s ICT infrastructure, a state-of-the-art IT Park is under development in Karachi, covering 1.12 million square feet.
Expected to be operational by 2027, the $186 million project will create 13,400 jobs and is projected to boost IT exports by $90 million. Similarly, an IT Park in Islamabad, covering 720,000 square feet, is currently under construction. Scheduled for completion in 2025 at $88.4 million, it is expected to generate 7,500 jobs and increase IT exports by $70 million.
As part of its digital empowerment initiatives, the government plans to establish 250 e-Rozgaar centers across Pakistan over the next three years (by 2027) under the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) project, “Prime Minister’s Initiatives—Support for Startups, Specialized IT Trainings, and Venture Capital.”
 These centers aim to support 25,000 freelancers and entrepreneurs, generating an additional $18-20 million in revenue. In FY 2024-25, 50 e-Rozgaar centers are set to become operational.
Pakistan’s first-ever Women Technology Park is being developed in collaboration with the Women’s University in Bagh, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and is expected to be operational in FY 2024-25.
The PSEB is also establishing an STP in Gilgit-Baltistan in strategic partnership with the Special Communications Organization (SCO) and the GB government. The government remains fully committed to supporting Pakistan’s ICT industry and has launched multiple programs in consultation with industry stakeholders.
These initiatives include capacity-building programs for ICT professionals and IT companies, as well as international marketing efforts to enhance Pakistan’s presence in global markets.

Governor KPK, foreign envoys see launch of ‘Car Ambassador’ as a significant economic step

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP):Governor,  Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi and ambassadors of different countries termed the launch of ‘Car Ambassador’ as a significant economic step in the electronic car and modern automobile sector.
The launch of the Car Flagship Store in Islamabad would not only boost business here but also make available a variety of electronic and hybrid vehicle brands and locally assembled models in the capital, which were earlier imported from Karachi and other cities,the governor said.
Governor,  Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Faisal Karim Kundi said  at the grand inauguration ceremony of Islamabad’s first premium flagship store, “Car Ambassador,” held here.
The event was also attended by ambassadors of ASEAN, Central Asia and African regions, including the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, Muhammad  Azhar Mazlan, Ambassador of Syria to Pakistan, Dr Ramez Alraee,
Ambassador of Myanmar to Pakistan, Wunna Hann, Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan,  Yusaf Sharifzoda, Ambassador of Rwanda to Pakistan,  Fatou Harerimana, Ambassador of Vietnam to Pakistan,  Pham Anh Tuan and Charge d’ Affairs of Indonesia,  Rahmat Hindriata Kasuma.
Meanwhile, on the occasion, the Governor KPK said that the country was currently moving towards economic stability and the inauguration of an automobile brand in Islamabad and this major economic activity was a sign of improvement in the country’s economy.
He said that Pakistan’s automobile sector is in the process of development and such activities will further increase growth in this sector.
Faisal Karim Kundi emphasized that the government is working hand in hand with the business community to drive Pakistan’s economic progress.
He highlighted Pakistan’s strong diplomatic ties with all nations, stating that the presence of ambassadors at the event reflects international confidence in Pakistan as a growing business hub.
Mean while the ambassadors expressed their commitment to strengthening trade and investment cooperation, acknowledging the vast opportunities available and affirming their willingness to explore new avenues of business collaboration.
They emphasized the importance of increasing trade volume and facilitating greater market access for Pakistani products.
Meanwhile speaking to the media on this occasion, the Malaysian Ambassador said that economic activities are increasing in Pakistan and the Car Ambassador has been introduced as a new brand in the federal capital.
He said that there is a huge potential for cooperation between Pakistan and Malaysia in the automobile sector, which will further enhance future cooperation between the two countries.
Ambassador of Rwanda, Fatou Harerimana said that Pakistan and Rwanda are in the negotiation phase in different sectors and both sides are committed to enhancing cooperation in the automobile sector.
Ambassador of Myanmar to Pakistan, Wunna Hann also highlighted different aspects of ASEAN and Pakistan’s economic and trade relations in the past few years.
Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan,  Yusaf Sharifzoda sees huge potential between Pakistan and Tajikistan in the automobile sector.
Ambassador of Syria to Pakistan, Dr. Ramez Alraee said that Syria in last month’s flight operation from Pakistan, which enhanced the economic ties and people-to-people contact between both countries.
Ambassador of Vietnam to Pakistan, Pham Anh Tuan said that the automobile sector is key to increasing bilateral economic and trade ties between Pakistan and Vietnam.
Charge d’ Affaires of Indonesia, Rahmat Hindriata Kasuma said that Indonesia and Pakistan can enhance their cooperation in electric vehicles.
The event was also attended by Industrialist and business leaders of the country.

SALU, Spanish university Sign MoU to boost archaeological studies

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SUKKUR, Feb 13 (APP):In a landmark move, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU) Khairpur and Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in Spain have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance archaeological and cultural heritage studies.
The MoU on Thursday, signed by SALU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Yousuf Khushk, aims to promote joint research projects, archaeological studies, and the preservation of Sindh’s cultural heritage. The agreement also includes plans for research journals, exchange programs, workshops, and conferences.
UPF’s Dr. Marco Madella praised the collaboration, saying it will “open new doors of opportunity” and lead to groundbreaking research. Prof. Dr. Khushk emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two universities, stating that the collaboration will contribute significantly to society and bring invaluable insights.
The four-year agreement, renewable for another four years, is expected to advance research in archaeology, cultural preservation, and international academic exchange. With this MoU, SALU and UPF aim to forge a strong academic and cultural bond, benefiting both institutions and contributing to the broader fields of archaeology and heritage preservation.

Ombudsman office ordered MEPCO to change defective meters

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MEPCO
BAHAWALPUR, Feb 13 (APP):Federal Ombudsman Regional Office directed the Multan Electric Company (MEPCO) to change defective electricity meters on urgent basis to resolve over-billing issue.
While holding an open court here on Thursday,Registrar, Regional office, Yasir Shabbir conducted hearing into cases filed against different federal departments and utility service providers including Multan Electric Company.
He took notice that the complaints regarding over-billing were due to defective electricity meters. He directed the officials concerned to immediately change defective meters including ten in Kehrorpakka area.
The applicants were provided relief of over Rs 100,000 on head of detection in bills.
25 cases were disposed off during the hearing and the officials of the relevant departments and utility service providers were issued directives in this regard.

Crackdown held against criminals in Khairpur

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arrested
SUKKUR, Feb 13 (APP):In an operation, Khairpur police apprehended two notorious criminals, recovering arms and a stolen motorcycle from their possession on Thursday.
The successful raid was conducted by the Hingorja and Rasoolabad police, under the directives of DIG Sukkur, Captain (Retd) Faisal Abdullah Chachar.
The police officials displayed exceptional bravery during the encounter, which resulted in the arrest of the two culprits. Two police personnel were injured during the exchange and were rushed to the hospital.
DIG Sukkur, Captain (Retd) Faisal Abdullah Chachar, commended the bravery and professionalism of the police personnel involved in the operation. He announced that the officials would be awarded the CC Second Certificate and a cash reward for their outstanding performance.
The SSP Khairpur was instructed to ensure the injured personnel received prompt medical attention. This operation is part of the ongoing efforts to curb crime and maintain law and order in the region.

Father kills four children before ending his life in Swabi

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PESHAWAR, Feb 13 (APP):In a tragic incident in Yaar Hussain area of Swabi district, a father killed his four children before committing suicide.
According to Rescue 1122 on Thursday, the father killed his two sons and two daughters at their home in the Sara Cheena area of Yaar Hussain before taking his own life.
Locals and rescue authorities said the man had fought with his wife the previous night. His wife was staying at her parents’ house following a disagreement. Locals said several reconciliation efforts were made to bring her back, but she remained unwilling. The man, infuriated with the situation, went for the extreme step, locals added.
The deceased children were identified as Zia  Islam (12 years), Abdul Rehman (10 years), Sana (8 years), and a 2-year-old girl.
Police confirmed the bodies had been taken into custody and shifted to the hospital for further investigation.

Four profiteers held

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SARGODHA, Feb 13 (APP):The district administration arrested four shopkeepers for profiteering in various parts of the city on Thursday.
According to official sources, price control magistrates inspected various areas of the
city and Khalid, Safdar, Shoukat and Javed were involved in profiteering.
The magistrates got registered cases against the accused and also imposed
fine on them.

Five outlaws held

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FAISALABAD, Feb 13 (APP):Police arrested two dacoit gangs and arrested their five active members during the last 24 hours.
Police said here on Thursday, Peoples Colony raiding team nabbed two outlaws– Farman and Ali from Yasrab Colony,while Khurrianwala police held Awais alias Sultan, Adnan Masih of 203-RB and Nadeem Masih of Nankana. They were arrested from Chak no.194-RB.
Police recovered five pistols, cash, cell phones and motorcycles from their possession.
Separate cases were registered ,while further investigation was underway.

Distinguished content creators honoured with `Top Digital Awards’ for Showcasing KP’s Landscape

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PESHAWAR, Feb 13 (APP):Fourteen exceptional content creators were celebrated at the prestigious KP Top Digital Awards ceremony held at Agriculture University Peshawar.
The awards recognized their outstanding contributions to the digital landscape of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where they have skilfully utilized online platforms to spotlight the region’s rich culture, heritage, and contemporary challenges.
The awards were presented during the Metrix Pakistan Youth Summit (6th Edition), a three-day event organized collaboratively by the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Directorate of Youth Affairs, the District Youth Office Peshawar, and the Prison’s Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The honourees included Umama Khalid, Hira Fayaz, Manayal Ahmed, Reham Alamgir, Hania Fahimi, Zahra Abbas, Tehreem Awan, Sidra Tul Muntaha, Jalal ur Rehman, Bilal Naqeeb, Haram Nadeem, Huraira Ahmad, Mian Kashif Ahmad, and Peshawar Junkies.
Hassan Nisar, CEO of Metrix Pakistan, praised the awardees, stating, “These content creators have masterfully showcased the vibrant culture and traditions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while also highlighting its modern advancements and the resilience of its people. Through their innovative storytelling and digital expertise, they are reshaping the narrative of our province and leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.”
The Metrix Pakistan Youth Summit is designed to empower young individuals by offering them a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and professional growth.
The KP Top Digital Awards not only celebrated the achievements of these digital pioneers but also underscored the growing influence of digital media in shaping societal narratives.
By honoring these creators, the event emphasized the importance of supporting individuals who leverage digital platforms to inspire, educate, and foster positive change in society.