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SMEs, IT-enabled sectors crucial for UK-Pakistan cooperation: Warrington

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Nov 11 (APP):Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), modern technology and Information Technology (IT) enabled sectors are crucial for economic growth and the UK-Pakistan cooperation.
Head of British High Commission in Lahore, Ben Warrington, stated this during a high-level discussion on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and cooperation between Pakistan and the United Kingdom (UK) here at Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Tuesday.
The meeting was attended by LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Sehgal, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, Vice President Khurram Lodhi, EC Members Firdous Nisar and Amna Randhawa and other key members of the business community.
In his opening remarks, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol highlighted the Chamber’s strategic focus on supporting SMEs, fostering industrial diversification, and promoting investment-friendly policies. He said that Lahore, being the industrial and cultural capital of Pakistan, is well-positioned to lead the country’s economic transformation. He emphasized that the Chamber is working to engage the youth in entrepreneurial ventures, build capacity, and add value to exports in key sectors including technology, manufacturing, textiles, automotive, and food and beverages. “We must explore new markets, create high-value products and ensure our businesses are fully equipped to compete globally,” he said.
Responding to the Chamber’s proposals, Ben Warrington acknowledged Lahore’s status as a vital commercial hub and expressed the UK’s willingness to expand cooperation with Pakistan’s private sector. He said, strengthening SMEs, boosting digital innovation, and facilitating trade reforms are crucial for unlocking economic opportunities.
“Supporting SMEs, tech, and IT-enabled sectors is critical for economic growth and UK-Pakistan cooperation,” he remarked. He added, the UK government is already supporting development programmes in Punjab and is exploring new initiatives to promote investment, entrepreneurship, and regulatory efficiency.
He also emphasized deepening collaboration through business exchanges, partnerships in emerging technologies, and climate-resilient economic planning.
Saigol further briefed the delegation on LCCI’s initiatives in areas such as promoting sustainability, creating awareness on climate adaptation, reducing industrial carbon footprints, and encouraging renewable energy. He said that Pakistan’s expanding tech landscape, including freelancing, gaming, and software development, offers a strong foundation for joint ventures with British enterprises. “We want to empower our industries to adopt sustainable practices while enhancing export competitiveness,” the LCCI President added.
Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh thanked the British delegation for their visit. He said that such engagements not only strengthen diplomatic and economic ties but also create knowledge-sharing opportunities for Pakistan’s business community. Both sides agreed to enhance business delegations, support B2B interactions, and work collectively to attract UK investors to Pakistan’s promising industrial and technological sectors.

NAB, UK’s NCA to sign MoU to strengthen anti-corruption partnership

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 11 (APP): The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to strengthen anti-corruption partnership.
This development followed an important meeting at NAB Headquarters on Tuesday, where Acting Chairman Sohail Nasser met with UK delegation led by Graeme Biggar CBE, Director-General of the NCA. Both discussed avenues of collaboration and reinforce mutual commitment against corruption.
The NCA delegation, comprising Biggar, included Graham Rer, Councillor / Regional Head; Owen Kennedy, Staff Officer to Director-General NCA; Paul Hamilton Tweedale, Liaison Officer NCA; and Mitchell Tipp, Liaison Officer NCA.
Senior officials from NAB, including Ghulam Safdar Shah, DG Operations; Muhammad Tahir, Director ICW; and Usman Karim Khan, were also present in the meeting.
The primary objective of the meeting was to enhance bilateral cooperation between both the agencies to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding exchange of information and enhance capacity building.
In his remarks, Acting Chairman Sohail Nasser lauded the mutual response and cooperation extended by NCA in finalizing the MoU draft. He assured that NAB is committed to completing all necessary legal formalities at the earliest to undergo this important agreement.
The acting Chairman NAB emphasized the existing strong cooperation and synergy between NAB and the UK’s anti-corruption agencies, which is currently based on both formal and informal channels for information exchange. However, he stressed that the proposed MoU will be a significant milestone in further strengthening the mutual anti-corruption efforts between the two countries.
The MoU is expected to enhance timely cooperation between the law enforcement agencies of both nations, laying the foundation for swift recovery of stolen assets and addressing corruption cases in befitting manner. Both parties agreed on the critical need to increase informal exchanges of intelligence and information related to corruption, financial crimes, money laundering, and complex fraud, especially in the current global climate.
In line with NAB’s commitment to internal capacity building, Acting Chairman, Sohail Nasir introduced the NCA delegation to NAB’s newly established Pakistan Anti-Corruption Academy (PACA). The role of PACA and its efforts to enhance the skills of anti-corruption professionals were discussed. The NCA delegation expressed interest in ensuring the participation of NAB officers in upcoming training programs related to cryptocurrency, which is expected to play a significant role in combating financial crimes.
Both agencies also agreed to increase cooperation through exchange of experts and human resource development in the fields of forensic accounting, asset investigations, money laundering, and advanced prosecution techniques.
This meeting reflects the unwavering commitment of both NAB and the NCA to promote global cooperation in tackling financial crimes and corruption, with the shared goal of ensuring security and combating risks associated with financial misconduct on an international scale.

Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College.

By
Wajid
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0
APP69-111125 PESHAWAR: November 11 – Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College. APP/SYR/IQJ/TZD/SSH
Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College.
APP69-111125
PESHAWAR: November 11 –
Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College.
APP70-111125
PESHAWAR: November 11 – VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I) and former President of the Floral Art Society, Naveed Shabir, along with other officials, cut the ribbon to inaugurate the Fine Art Exhibition on the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at Nishtar Hall. APP/SYR/IQJ/TZD/SSH
Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College.
APP71-111125
PESHAWAR: November 11 – VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I) and former President of the
Floral Art Society, Naveed Shabir, along with other officials, visit the Fine Art Exhibition during the
second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at Nishtar Hall. APP/SYR/
IQJ/TZD/SSH
Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College.
APP72-111125
PESHAWAR: November 11 – VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I) and former President of the Floral Art Society, Naveed Shabir, along with other officials, explore the Fine Art Exhibition on the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at Nishtar Hall. APP/SYR/IQJ/TZD/SSH
Mayor of Peshawar Zubair Ali and VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), along with other officials and organizers, visit display stalls during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at City District College.
APP73-111125
PESHAWAR: November 11 – VC SBBWU Prof. Dr. Safia Ahmed (T.I), former President of the Floral Art Society Naveed Shabir, and participants pose for a group photo during the second day of the Dosti Peshawar Women Literature Festival 3rd Edition at Nishtar Hall. APP/SYR/IQJ/TZD/SSH

Appreciation certificates presented to officers over successful organization of Thal Desert Jeep Rally 2025

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Nov 11 (APP):An appreciation ceremony was held to acknowledge the successful organization of the 10th Thal Desert Jeep Rally 2025, where Secretary Tourism, Archaeology & Museums, Dr. Ehsan Bhutta, presented certificates of appreciation to officers who played a key role in the event’s success.
Secretary Bhutta lauded the outstanding efforts of Commissioner Dera Ghazi Khan Division Ashfaq Ahmad Chaudhry, Managing Director TDCP Asim Raza, Deputy Commissioner Layyah Ms. Ameera Baidar, Deputy Commissioner Kot Addu Syed Munawar Abbas, and Deputy Commissioner Muzaffargarh Muhammad Usman Tahir Japha, among other officers, for their remarkable contribution and effective coordination in making the event a resounding success.
Addressing the ceremony, Dr. Bhutta said that the successful conduct of the 10th Thal Desert Rally 2025 was a reflection of inter-departmental collaboration, strong teamwork, and exemplary administrative performance. He appreciated the dedication of TDCP, district administrations, police, Rescue 1122, Suthra Punjab, and other departments for performing their duties with great commitment and efficiency.
He further stated that the family galas, cultural programs, Jhumar performances, tent pegging, sports competitions, and musical nights organized during the rally beautifully showcased the region’s rich culture and traditions, while providing entertainment and joy to the public.
Dr. Ehsan Bhutta added that excellent arrangements were witnessed in Layyah, Kot Addu, and Muzaffargarh, which gave a new dimension to tourism, culture, and recreational activities across South Punjab. He expressed hope that such initiatives would continue in the future to promote positive recreational and cultural engagement and to offer the public more opportunities for healthy entertainment.

Sports Gala 2025 kicks off at SBBU

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
HYDERABAD, Nov 11 (APP):A colorful opening ceremony marked the commencement of the Sports Gala 2025 at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Shaheed Benazirabad.
The sports gala was organized by Directorate of Students Affairs under the theme “Sports for Peace,” the event took place at the university’s Sports Complex on November 11. The gala was formally inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Madad Ali Shah.
Teams from various university departments enthusiastically participated the ceremony. The Sports Gala features competitions in cricket, sack race, tug-of-war, and several other sports. According to Director Sports Dr. Altaf Khaskheli, the participating teams are showing great excitement and sportsmanship.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Vice Chancellor Dr. Madad Ali Shah emphasized the importance of promoting sports activities. He urged wealthy individuals and non-governmental organizations to play their role in supporting sports and called upon the government to devise comprehensive and effective plans to encourage talented athletes across the country.
He said that every conscious citizen should encourage traditional and international sports, as sports instill discipline, tolerance, and a spirit of action among the youth. VC further noted that organizing sports events from schools to universities is essential for the physical well-being of students.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Madad Ali Shah hummed the popular song associated with Javed Miandad’s iconic six against India in Sharjah, prompting students to enthusiastically chant “Pakistan Zindabad.”

CCPO vows zero tolerance for corruption, directs swift action on complaints

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Nov 11 (APP):Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana on Tuesday reaffirmed that corruption in any form will not be tolerated within the police department, and strict action will be taken promptly on receipt of any complaint.
He made these remarks while presiding over a performance review meeting of Iqbal Town and Saddar Divisions at the Capital City Police Headquarters. The meeting reviewed crime control measures, investigation quality and other professional matters in detail.
CCPO Bilal expressed satisfaction over crime control and issued directives to ensure foolproof security arrangements for Sikh pilgrims arriving to celebrate Baba Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary. The meeting also focused on repatriation of illegally residing Afghan nationals, with officers instructed to accelerate ongoing crackdowns. Strict action will be taken against those renting houses, shops, or properties to illegal Afghan residents.
The CCPO further directed strict implementation of the Tenancy and Loudspeaker Acts and emphasised that action would be taken against dissemination of hate material. He warned that those involved in aerial firing, one-wheeling, and other unlawful activities would face indiscriminate action, and hosts of wedding events will be held accountable for aerial firing incidents. Public announcements from mosques were also instructed to raise awareness about the dangers of aerial firing.
He urged officers to play a vigorous role in providing immediate relief and justice to citizens.
The meeting was attended by DIG (Admin) Imran Kishwar, DIG (Investigation) Zeeshan Raza, DIG (Operations) Faisal Kamran, SSP (Investigation) Muhammad Naveed, SSP (Operations) Tassawar Iqbal, SSP (Discipline) Hassan Javed Bhatti, SPs, ASPs, circle officers, SHOs, and in-charges of investigation wings from Iqbal Town and Saddar Divisions.

China’s reforms open new opportunities for Pakistani businesses: Chinese Consul General

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Nov 11 (APP):Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren has emphasized the growing importance of the Chinese language for Pakistan’s business community during his address at the inaugural ceremony of Chinese Language Course at Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Tuesday.
Highlighting China’s ongoing reforms and deepening engagement with global markets, he encouraged local entrepreneurs to enhance their skills and explore emerging opportunities under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Zhao Shiren extended heartfelt congratulations to the participants for successfully completing the two-month programme. He was of the view that learning Chinese is more than communication – it serves as a bridge to culture, economic opportunities, and closer engagement with China.
Zhao also highlighted the outcomes of the 4th Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee in Beijing, pointing out that China’s comprehensive reforms would create new openings for Pakistan’s private sector, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative. He encouraged LCCI members to stay engaged with China’s evolving economic landscape and to leverage these opportunities for mutual benefit.
Earlier in his welcome address, LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol expressed the hope that such training initiatives would continue and expand, enabling more members to acquire foreign language skills. He reiterated that programmes like these are part of LCCI’s broader efforts to strengthen Pakistan-China economic cooperation and empower the business community for a more connected and prosperous future.
He also highlighted the Chamber’s vision of providing value-added initiatives beyond its regular functions. He noted that foreign language courses are essential for strengthening business ties and improving communication with international partners.
Saigol also shared that over 110 members had enrolled, reflecting strong interest in expanding their linguistic and business capabilities.
LCCI Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, Vice President Khurram Lodhi and executive committee members were also present.
The ceremony ended with the presentation of certificates to the language course participants.

KP launches artificial intelligence education across public schools

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
PESHAWAR, Nov 11 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has formally approved the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) education across all public schools, marking a major shift towards modernising the province’s academic landscape.
 The decision was taken during a high-level meeting of the Elementary and Secondary Education Department, chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.
Under the new initiative, the National Artificial Intelligence Course will be taught from Grade 6 onward in government schools. The Education Department has been directed to take necessary steps to ensure the availability of resources, trained staff, and essential facilities required for the programme.
Officials emphasised that AI education is crucial for preparing students for a rapidly changing world where digital and technological skills are becoming indispensable.
The government aims to equip the youth with the competence needed to compete in future challenges and emerging job markets.
The provincial administration has termed the launch of AI education a “revolutionary step” that will bring significant progress to the education system and empower the next generation with advanced knowledge and capabilities.

IGP approves Rs 2.25m for treatment of injured cops

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Nov 11 (APP):Punjab Police have allocated an additional Rs 2.25 million for the medical treatment of injured police personnel in the line of duty.
According to police spokesperson while sharing the details, Rs. 500,000 each were provided to injured Constable Riasat Ali, injured Inspector Kamran Shehzad, and injured Constable Tajammul Aziz. Similarly, Rs. 300,000 were given to injured Constable Muhammad Adnan, Rs. 200,000 to injured Sub-Inspector Umar Farooq, Rs. 150,000 to injured Constable Muhammad Akhtar, and Rs. 100,000 to injured Constable Abid Hussain for their medical treatment expenses. The approval was granted by the Compensation Award Committee, chaired by Additional IG Welfare and Finance Imran Arshad.
IGP Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar said that thousands of police officers and personnel have been injured while protecting the lives and properties of citizens. He said providing the best medical care and ensuring early recovery of police heroes is a top priority.

Hearing in Judicial Complex attack case deferred until Dec 4

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 11 (APP):The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Islamabad on Tuesday adjourned the hearing of the Judicial Complex attack case against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and others without proceedings.
Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra presided over the hearing, where the court was informed that the Law Ministry has not yet responded to a letter seeking approval for conducting the jail trial of the case.
After marking the attendance of the accused, the judge postponed further proceedings until December 4.
The case was registered at the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) police station against the PTI founder and several party members in connection with the alleged attack on the Judicial Complex in Islamabad.
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