LAHORE
Chairman Prime Minister Youth Program Rana Mashhood Ahmed, condolences with Asif Bajwa (former Secretary Hockey Association) on the death of his mother at the Hockey Stadium
LAHORE
International Hockey League teams are playing matches at the National Hockey Stadium
LAHORE
LAHORE
Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja meeting with Mr. Barry Xu, Vice President ME&CA Cloud Huawei in Riyadh
ISLAMABAD
Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, H.E. Shaza Fatima Khawaja along with Ambassador of Pakistan to KSA H.E. Ahmad Farooq, Secretary IT&T, CEO PSEB, and Chairman P@SHA during LEAP2025
RIYADH
Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, H.E. Shaza Fatima Khawaja along with Ambassador of Pakistan to KSA H.E. Ahmad Farooq, Secretary IT&T, CEO PSEB, and Chairman P@SHA during LEAP2025
RIYADH
President District Bar Association Irfanullah Warraich Advocate, Secretary Chaudhry Afzal Aslam presenting a shield to renowned national poet Shahid Zaki at the annual Mehfil Mushaira
SIALKOT
Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Privatization & Communications Abdul Aleem Khan in a group photo along with the Ambassador of Azerbaijan Khazar Farhadov, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh and the Chairman of the Azerbaijan-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari during inauguration of the Azerbaijan-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry in federal capital
ISLAMABAD
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb in a meeting with a high-level Turkish delegation led by Mr. Atilla Yerlikaya, President of Corporate Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability, Anadolu Group, who called on the Minister at the Finance division in federal capital
ISLAMABAD
ISLAMABAD
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, in a meeting with H.E. Ms. Jane Marriott CMG OBE, British High Commissioner to Pakistan called on the Minister at the Finance division in federal capital
ISLAMABAD
ISLAMABAD
Coordinator to PM for Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam talking to a delegation of Young Leaders Society – Pakistan in federal capital
ISLAMABAD
Finance minister for promoting innovation in insurance sector
KARACHI, Feb 12 (APP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Wednesday, stressed the need of adopting digital technology and promoting innovation in the insurance sector to cater the needs of the growing population of the country.
He was virtually addressing the InsureImpact Conference Pakistan (ICP) 2025, themed “Journey to an Insured Pakistan – Fostering Collaboration, Engagement & Innovation,” held here to bring together key stakeholders for re-imagining the future of insurance in Pakistan.
The InsureImpact Conference Pakistan 2025 is organized by Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan in collaboration with Karandaz, Central Depository Company and Society of Actuaries.
The minister in his address, highlighted the improvements in economic indicators due to multifaceted measures by the government in different sectors and said that the IMF and other international financial institutions are recognizing the progress made by Pakistan towards economic stability.
He said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had a very constructive and positive meeting with the IMF team led by MD Kristalina Georgieva on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit in Dubai where economic developments and ongoing reforms as well as macro economic stability achieved over the last 12 months came under discussion.
He said the IMF Managing Director lauded the government’s efforts for macroeconomic stability and commended Pakistan’s efforts in effectively implementing the IMF-supported reform based program and leadership role of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in this regard.
He said that the primary role of the government is constituting policy framework and extending maximum facilitation to business and industries and it is not the business of the government to do business as certain works and activities could only be carried out by the private sector.
The finance minister informed that the prime minister and his cabinet has a clear perspective in the regard while the committee on State Owned Enterprises has also submitted its recommendations that were under deliberations.
He said the insurance sector is at a good juncture and the agriculture sector has witnessed technological advancement but we have to sit together and deliberate on the way forward and achieve the objective of Insure Pakistan.
The finance minister stressed that innovation in the health and education sectors is essential and we should take leverage of digital technology to cater the needs of the growing population of Pakistan.
He underscored that instead of fearing Climate Change, we have to look at it from a different angle and work under an effective strategy to deal with it.
Coordinator to PM on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, in her message, highlighted the climate change induced challenges and stressed on the significance of resilient building approach.
Climate change is a reality that is affecting basic infrastructure and different sectors in Pakistan, she said and added that the government and private sector have to sit together to work for building a resilient Pakistan and minimize the losses inflicted to agriculture, infrastructure and public and private property.
The conference was comprised of four sessions on transforming disaster and agriculture insurance through collaboration, accelerating innovation with the digital shift in motor insurance, positioning insurance as a dual pillar for health protection and social security, and charting the path to an insured Pakistan through digitization by addressing gaps, exploring potential, and developing an ideal infrastructure.
The representatives of SECP, CDC and other institutions as well as private sector insurance companies and other relevant organizations had thought-provoking discussions on actionable insights, and opportunities for collaboration to shape a resilient and inclusive insurance ecosystem.
Govt. taking steps for development, welfare of youth: CM’s aide
PESHAWAR, Feb 12 (APP):Special Assistant to Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Prisons, Humayun Khan has said that provincial government was taking possible steps for development and welfare of youth.
He expressed these views while addressing the sixth edition of Matrix Pakistan Youth Summit at University of Agriculture Peshawar as the Chief Guest.
He said that government is working to equip youth with modern skills enabling them to explore new opportunities in modern fields of technology, e-commerce and artificial intelligence.
He also urged the youth to enhance skills, acquire expertise in modern sciences and play an active role in the development of the country. He also appreciated holding of Youth Summit and said that government is also providing full support to young scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs.
CM aide also 18 prominent youth of the province with the “Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award” and said that such youth are pride of our province and their achievements are a beacon of light for others.
It is worth mentioning that sixth edition of Matrix Pakistan Youth Summit consists of three-day events including sessions, workshops, exhibitions and networking opportunities. Thousands of youth, experts, representatives of government and private institutions and people from education sector are participating in this summit.
Echocardiography machine at LGH made functional
LAHORE, Feb 12 (APP):The echocardiography machine at Lahore General Hospital (LGH), which had been non-functional for a long time, has been reactivated following the instructions of Secretary Health Punjab Azmat Mahmood.
According to an official handout issued on Wednesday, the machine had remained unused in a room for an extended period. Acting on the directives of the Secretary Health, a consultant cardiologist has also been assigned duty to ensure the machine is used efficiently for patient care.
Punjab’s first air ambulance service successfully operating: Khawaja Salman
LAHORE, Feb 12 (APP):Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique has stated that the air ambulance service, introduced by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is successfully serving humanity and providing emergency medical assistance across the province.
During his visit to the Emergency Services Academy on Wednesday, the minister was briefed by Secretary Emergency Services Dr. Rizwan Naseer about the operations of the air ambulance service. He also reviewed its performance in Mianwali and Bahawalnagar, where several critical patients were transported to major teaching hospitals for urgent medical care.
Khawaja Salman Rafique visited various training stalls at the academy, where rescuers from Gilgit-Baltistan and Punjab are currently undergoing training. Speaking on the occasion, he expressed satisfaction over the service’s performance and announced that its scope will be further expanded to reach more patients in need.
The minister highlighted that Punjab’s air ambulance service is a first in Pakistan’s history, initiated under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to provide rapid emergency medical assistance.
A meeting regarding the service was also attended via video link by CEOs, MSs, and District Rescue Officers from Mianwali and Bahawalnagar.
Incentivizing local industries is critical for economic growth: SCCI
PESHAWAR, Feb 12 (APP):Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Fazal Moqeem Khan highlighted KP’ important potential sectors for attracting local as well as foreign investment and called for incentivizing and providing facilities to industry and businesses for sustainable economic growth.
He was speaking to members during a visit of a five members delegation of Board of Investment of Gilgit Baltistan here at the chamber house on Wednesday.
The BoI Gilgit Baltistan delegation was headed by its Chairman Fatehullah, while member Gilgit Balistan Assembly Javed Ali Manwa, Director General BoI GB Shahid Ali, President Khosh Noor, accompanied him on the occasion.
The meeting also attended by SCCI senior vice president Abdul Jali Jan, vice president Shehyar Khan, former presidents Haji Muhammad Asif, Fuad Ishaq and Zahidullah Shinwari, member of the chamber’ executive committee Aftab Iqbal, Ashfaq Ahmad, Mujeebur Rehman and Ihsanullah, Rashid Iqbal Siddiqui, Ishtiaq Muhammad, Faiz Rasool, Saddar Gul, Fazal e Wahid, Ismail Safi, Khalid Gul Pakhtunyar, SCCI Secretary General Muqtasid Ahsan, KPBOIT officials Iqbal Sarwar and Raess Anjum and others.
On the occasion, a detailed multimedia presentation was run, highlighting the role of the chamber, its origin, main function, features, future plan and initiatives for welfare and addressing of the business community.
Similarly, another multimedia presentation was given by officials from BoI GB, in which four key sectors including tourism, agriculture, minerals and hydropower generation were identified for investment.
Fazal Moqeem stressed investment from other regions and abroad can only woo when local investors and industries would have provided facilities and incentives.Chairman BoI invited KP investors to make investment in the afore-stated four key sectors of Gilgit Baltistan while a member of GB Assembly also underscored the need of further establishing close contacts between the business community of GB and SCCI to strengthen bilateral trade and commerce relations.
SCCI chief stated KP is the lucrative destination for local as well as foreign investment wherein ample opportunities existed to make investment in various potential sectors, notably oil, gas, hydropower generation, match, marble and others.
Moqeem assured on the occasion that joint initiatives would be made to strengthen business to business contacts and promote mutual economic and trade ties between SCCI and BoI of Gilgit Baltistan.
Azerbaijan-Pak, CCI lays foundation for stronger economic alliance: Aleem Khan
ISLAMABAD, Feb 12 (APP):Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI), Privatization,and Communication, Abdul Aleem Khan on Wednesday said the inauguration of Azerbaijan-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (APCCI) is the foundation for a stronger economic alliance between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, which will enhance the bilateral economic and trade ties between both side.
Addressing the ceremony as the Chief Guest, he said, “We stand at the threshold of a new and dynamic chapter in our bilateral relations, with unwavering optimism, I am confident that this Chamber will evolve into a cornerstone of our economic cooperation, ushering in a new era of trade, innovation, and mutual success.”
Aleem Khan said the APCCI stands as a testament to that enduring friendship, transforming goodwill into tangible economic opportunities.
He said this Chamber is more than an institution and it is a catalyst for innovation, a bridge between ambition and achievement.
The minister said that with ongoing economic reforms, Pakistan is committed to creating a business-friendly environment for Azerbaijani investors and under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif the government is advancing in economic diplomacy, with Azerbaijan as a key partner in this vision.
The minister said the responsibility now lies with government bodies, business leaders, and industry stakeholders to transform this potential into tangible economic progress.
He said the path ahead is full of promise, but realizing its full potential demands our collective commitment, strategic collaboration, and unwavering confidence in the limitless opportunities that await us.
Today, we are reaffirming our commitment to expanding economic horizons and unlocking new avenues of trade and investment.
He said that in modern economies fast-paced global economy, sustainable growth depends on strategic partnerships and adaptability.
Today, he said it is not just about the unveiling of an institution; it is about cementing an economic partnership that is poised to redefine the trajectory of our bilateral relations. Pakistan and Azerbaijan share a bond that extends beyond formal diplomacy; it is rooted in history, mutual respect and an unwavering commitment to shared prosperity.
Aleem Khan said both nations have always stood shoulder to shoulder—whether in moments of triumph or challenges.
Pakistan was among the first to recognize Azerbaijan’s independence, and since then, our relationship has flourished, strengthened by mutual commitment to regional connectivity, sustainable growth, and strategic collaboration.
“I would like to take this moment to extend my deepest appreciation to Ambassador Khazar Farhadov, whose relentless efforts in strengthening the Azerbaijan-Pakistan partnership have been instrumental in bringing us to this millstone’ he said.
Ambassador Farhadov expressed his deep fraternal sentiments towards Abdul Aleem Khan and mentioned that both countries were taking steps to enhance bilateral
cooperation.
The Ambassador expressed confidence that Azerbaijan-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry would further increase the existing $ 2 billion investment volume between the two countries.
Chairman of the Azerbaijan-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari said that annual bilateral trade of $ 100 million between Azerbaijan and Pakistan is not according to the potential and efforts needed to enhance the bilateral trade up $1 billion in next five years.
He said that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to Azerbaijan proved to be a catalyst in bilateral economic and trade ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.
On this occasion, he reiterated determination that he will take the bilateral economic and trade ties between both nations to the highest level through this potential platform of APCCI.
The President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram addressing the ceremony, hailed the establishment of the APCCI and highlighted its role in introducing Pakistani products to Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries.
Meanwhile, on the occasion, Secretary General of FPCCI, highlighted the different aspects of Azerbaijan and Pakistan relation and praised the Federal Minister’s efforts for promoting bilateral ties of the two friend countries.
At the end of the inauguration ceremony, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan as the Chief Guest cut the ceremonial cake and congratulated the Ambassador of Azerbaijan Khazar Farhadov and all the attendees.
Punjab Cabinet approves recruitment of 5,960 constables
LAHORE, Feb 12 (APP):Under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab Cabinet has approved the recruitment of 5,960 constables.
While sharing the details, IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar said that, in line with the vision of the Chief Minister Punjab, constables are being recruited for the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority. He further explained that the recruitment process for constables for the Enforcement Authority has been initiated across all regions of Punjab Police.
Dr. Usman Anwar added that Punjab Police will assist the Punjab Government in carrying out operations under the Enforcement and Regulatory Authority to eliminate encroachments. He encouraged the youth to join Punjab Police and serve the nation with dedication and ensure the fearless protection of the people.
Asian Taekwondo Open C’ships from Friday
ISLAMABAD, Feb 12 (APP): The Pakistan Taekwondo Federation is set to host the Combaxx 7th Asian Taekwondo Open Championships 2025 from February 14 to 20 at the Liaquat Gymnasium of Pakistan Sports Complex.
Speaking at a press conference here at a local hotel, President Pakistan Teakwondo Federation Col (R) Raja Waseem Ahmed said the international event will feature 113 Poomsae athletes from 22 countries, along with 200 international delegates, including athletes, officials, and referees.
Additionally, the championship will witness fierce competitions in the Kyorugi category, comprising Junior Division 110 participants and Senior Division 302 participants.
The championship promises to be one of the largest Taekwondo events in the region, with over 400 Kyorugi participants, further highlighting Pakistan’s growing prominence in the global Taekwondo arena, he said.
The confirmed countries and their respective athlete strengths include Oman 2 athletes, Iran 15 athletes, Palestine 7 athletes, Afghanistan 31 athletes, Saudi Arabia 29 athletes, Kazakhstan 6 athletes, Egypt 11 athletes, France 5 athletes,
Great Britain (GBR) 1 athlete, Morocco 2 athletes, Kenya 3 athletes, Mali 2 athletes, Portugal 1 athlete, UAE 3 athletes, Greece 1 athlete, Jordan 1 athlete, Andorra 2 athletes, Canada 1 athlete, Iraq 1 athlete, Uzbekistan 5 athletes, Tajikistan 4 athletes, Germany 3 athletes.
“This championship is a remarkable opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s hosting capabilities while promoting Taekwondo at both junior and senior levels. With over 400 Kyorugi participants and 113 Poomsae athletes, the event will be a spectacular display of talent and sportsmanship,” he said.
Spectators and sports enthusiasts can expect electrifying performances as athletes compete for glory, fostering
camaraderie and cultural exchange.
IG Punjab approves additional funds of Rs 3.27m for treatment of police employees
LAHORE, Feb 12 (APP):Inspector General of Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, has approved additional funds amounting to 3.27 million rupees for the treatment of employees and their families suffering from serious illnesses.
Punjab Police Spokesperson provided details, that funds of 500,000 rupees each were released for ASI Ghulam Shabbir Abbas, Head Constable Fakhar Abbas, and Constable Munawar Hussain for medical treatment.
Similarly, Constables Rashid Farooq and Tariq Mehmood were provided a total of 620,000 rupees for their treatment. Additionally, Sub-Inspector Rais Shehzad and Constable Ubaidullah were granted 250,000 rupees each for medical care.
The spokesperson further mentioned that Sub-Inspectors Muhammad Imran, Muhammad Ashraf, retired ASI Masood Khan, and Driver Constable Muhammad Ramzan were given 100,000 rupees each for medical treatment. Moreover, retired Sub-Inspector Muhammad Ali, ASI Amjad Ali, and the widow of late ASI Muhammad Khalid were granted a total of 200,000 rupees for treatment.
The funds were provided for the treatment and surgeries of police personnel suffering from various diseases, including cancer, heart conditions, brain, eye, and kidney ailments.
The IG Punjab, while approving the fund release after scrutiny by the Medical Financial Assistance Committee, instructed that modern medical facilities are being provided to employees through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with various institutions for their treatments.
Punjab Police complete security arrangements for ICC Champion Trophy
LAHORE, Feb 12 (APP):Under the guidance of Inspector General of Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, Punjab Police has completed its security arrangements for the ICC Champions Trophy.
Dr. Usman Anwar said that the police force is committed to providing full security to both national and international players, officials, and cricket fans, ensuring that the matches are held in a peaceful and secure environment.
He also mentioned that coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board, district administration, and other security agencies has been finalized. Search operations, sweeps, combing operations, and intelligence-based operations are currently ongoing around players’ accommodations, routes, and stadiums.
The IG Punjab instructed officers and personnel to maintain tightened security during the matches and ensure the smooth flow of traffic. He emphasized that the Safe Cities Authority will monitor stadiums, hotels and team routes using surveillance cameras. Additional traffic wardens will be deployed to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow and facilitate proper parking arrangements. Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit, and Elite Force teams will conduct effective patrolling during the matches. Police snipers will be positioned on tall buildings around the stadiums, he added.
He also directed the staff at the stadium’s entry and exit points to engage with the public courteously and relevant districts will issue traffic advisories ahead of the matches to maintain traffic flow.
The IG Punjab urged cricket fans to follow the instructions of Punjab Police to ensure they can enjoy the matches in a safe environment.
Over 12,000 police officers and personnel will be on duty for security during the matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi. This will include 18 senior officers, 54 DSPs, 135 inspectors, and 1,200 upper subordinates. Additionally, 10,556 constables and over 200 female police officers will be responsible for security and checking. During the matches in Lahore, 8,000 officers and personnel will be on duty, including 12 senior officers, 39 DSPs, 86 inspectors, and 700 upper subordinates. Furthermore, 6,673 constables and 129 lady constables will handle security and checking duties. In Rawalpindi, over 5,000 officers and personnel will be assigned security duties, including 6 senior officers, 15 DSPs, 50 inspectors, and 500 upper subordinates.
Additionally, 4,000 constables and over 100 female personnel will carry out security and checking duties. Three matches will be held in Lahore on the 22nd, 26th February, and 5th March, while three matches will take place in Rawalpindi on the 24th, 25th, and 27th February.