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National Polio campaign achieves 90% vaccination coverage

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP): National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) on Friday said that 90% of the target children across the country have been vaccinated during the first four days of the campaign.

According to NEOC, the ongoing national polio eradication campaign has entered its fifth day with significant progress.

Region-wise breakdown shows encouraging results, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leading at 93% coverage, followed by Gilgit-Baltistan at 97% and Azad Jammu and Kashmir at 96%.

Punjab has vaccinated 91% of its children, Balochistan 89%, and Sindh 87%, while Islamabad has so far reached 81% coverage.

The synchronized campaign is also underway in neighboring Afghanistan, as part of a joint effort to eradicate the poliovirus from the region.

Despite the progress, the NEOC emphasized that the poliovirus continues to be present in the environment, posing a threat to unvaccinated children.

“Polio teams must be welcomed, and every child must be protected through timely vaccination,” the NEOC urged.

Parents have been reminded to ensure that their children receive all routine immunizations along with the polio drops.

For information or to coordinate with a polio vaccination team, citizens can call the helpline at 1166 or send a WhatsApp message to 0346-7776546.

World Bank outgoing Country Director Najy Benhassine calls on CM Maryam

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, May 30 (APP): World Bank Outgoing Country Director Najy Benhassine met Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz here on Friday.
She warmly welcomed the Country Director World Bank Najy Benhassine and paid tribute to his outstanding services rendered in Pakistan since 2020, said a handout issued here.
It was agreed to further strengthen ever growing partnership between the World Bank and the Punjab government.
The chief minister said, “Punjab government holds in high esteem its strong, effective and long-standing partnership with the World Bank. The World Bank is providing valuable assistance to the Punjab government in various social and development sectors including education as well as health. The new $40 billion Country Partnership Framework between Pakistan and the World Bank is a manifestation of the vision of CPF ‘Uraan Pakistan’.”
She highlighted, “12 projects worth $2.4 billion were underway in Punjab with the support of the World Bank. The Punjab Rural Sustainable Water Supply & Sanitation, Resilient Inclusive, Agriculture Transformation and Human Capital Investment projects are improving service delivery in the province.”
She outlined, “The Punjab Rural Sustainable Water Supply & Sanitation Programme is being expanded throughout the province. The Punjab government is making untiring strives to provide clean water and sanitation to all the villages in the province. We are striving to further strengthen the partnership between the World Bank and the Punjab government.”

Aleem praises armed forces for their collective bravery, victory over India

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):To express solidarity with the Pakistan Armed Forces and to pay tribute to the Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel on their remarkable victory in the recent Pakistan-India conflict, the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party organized the “Marqa-e-Haq Convention” in Khushab.
The event was graced by the President of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party and Federal Minister for Communications, Mr. Abdul Aleem Khan, as the Chief Guest, said a press release issued here on Friday.
In his address, he stated that Allah Almighty granted Pakistan a decisive victory against an enemy that has never accepted the country’s existence. He highlighted that India targeted innocent children under the cover of night, and tragically, the first martyr of the conflict was the younger son of a Pakistani soldier. Abdul Aleem Khan further said that Pakistan’s military leadership, under the command of Field Marshal Hafiz Syed Asim Munir, led the way by offering the Fajr prayer and raising the battle cry of “Allahu Akbar” before delivering a resounding response to Indian Prime Minister Modi—one that, he said, would be remembered for generations. He added that India’s administration has now been forced to apologize before the world, and its arrogance has been thoroughly shattered. Abdul Aleem Khan extended heartfelt congratulations to Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf for making the entire nation proud. He revealed that the Pakistan Air Force downed six enemy aircraft within an hour and a half, inside enemy territory. He praised the Armed Forces for their collective bravery, stating that the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force risked everything for the nation. He emphasized that the people of Pakistan stand united with their military and will defend the country together against any threat. Abdul Aleem Khan also remarked that Pakistan’s show of strength has had such a significant impact that even the market price of Rafale jets has declined. He expressed gratitude to friendly nations including China, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan for their unwavering support during the conflict. Concluding his remarks, he stated that Pakistan’s military commander is not just a leader for Pakistan but for the entire Islamic world. He added, “We have sent a message to Israel as well — we are not Palestine; we are Pakistan.” Central president of IPP, Abdul Aleem Khan, received a grand welcome in Khushab, where he was honored with a traditional Punjabi turban. The event featured fireworks and a showering of rose petals as a mark of respect and celebration.
 Abdul Aleem Khan declared that on May 10, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrogance, pride on military might and wealth was crushed badly while Pakistan brought down the enemy’s “Rafales” jets down their own soil. By the grace of Allah Almighty, our brave and valiant Armed Forces turned the tide within one and a half hour. He added that the entire nation felt immense pride and pleasure. Abdul Aleem Khan emphasized that the entire nation stands united and resolute. “Today, due to the leadership of our Army Chief, Field Marshal Hafiz Syed Asim Munir, no one dares to look at Pakistan with hostility,” he added. He further asserted that Pakistan, as a Nuclear Power, has fought the battle for the entire Muslim Ummah. “Had we not been a nuclear state, and had our armed forces not been so fearless then we might have suffered the same fate as Gaza,” he said. Thanking the people of Khushab, Abdul Aleem Khan reiterated that the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party stands shoulder to shoulder with the Pakistan Armed Forces in every corner of the country. “We held our first convention at Layyah and now after Khushab, we will continue this journey in Kamoke, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad. Through the platform of IPP, the resilient people of Pakistan will express their solidarity with our Armed Forces and salute our martyrs and veterans,” he remarked. The event also featured addresses by IPP Member National Assembly and Parliamentary Secretary Engineer Gul Asghar Baghore, IPP Khushab President and ticket holder Ameer Haider Singha, IPP Secretary General Mian Khalid Mehmood, Members Punjab Assembly Shoaib Siddiqui, Ghzanfar Abbas Cheena, Punjab President Rana Nazir Ahmed Khan, Vice President Mian Junaid Zulfiqar, ex Interior Minister Malik Habib Khan, South Punjab President Syed Rafaqat Ali Gillani, Khuram Hameed Rokhari, Haroon Imran Gill, Ms. Qudrat Niazi and other party leaders. They commended Abdul Aleem Khan’s initiative to organize the “Marka-e-Haq Convention”, describing it as timely and commendable. Speakers emphasized that Pakistan’s 250 million citizens are standing firmly behind their Pak Forces. During the event, various political and social figures from NA-88 Khushab announced their joining in the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party. President Abdul Aleem Khan received a warm and enthusiastic welcome at different locations, including Adhi Kot and Noorpur Thal where citizens raised passionate slogans in favor of the Pakistan Armed Forces. In the venue, workers of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party expressed solidarity with the Pakistan Armed Forces while also holding the national flags of China, Türkiye and Azerbaijan.

PM strongly condemns attack of terrorists in Balochistan

By
Munir Hussain
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Friday strongly condemned the cowardly attack on the innocent citizens, officers of administration and a bank by terrorists in Sorab, Balochistan.
He paid tribute to Additional Deputy Commissioner Hidayatullah Buledi for embracing martyrdom while defending his area from terrorists.
He expressed sympathy with the bereaved family members of the martyr and prayed for the grant of patience to them.
He said the attack by cowardly terrorists on the citizens and their properties was openly and evidently reflective of their animosity towards people and the progress of Balochistan.
He said the cowardly terrorists targeted innocent and unarmed citizens including children and women.
The war against terrorists will continue till their complete elimination from the country, he added.
The prime minister said martyred Additional Deputy Commissioner Hidayatullah Buledi set an example of bravery while fighting against the terrorists.
Sympathies of the whole nation were with the family of martyred Hidayatullah Buledi, he remarked.
The armed forces of Pakistan were busy day and night to exterminate the proxies who were spreading terrorism in Pakistan under the patronage of India, he said adding the whole nation stood shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces for completely wiping out elements who were involved in terrorism with abetment of India.
He directed that the persons involved in the incident should be identified and should be given exemplary punishment.

ICAP convocation held

By
Kamran Muraad
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KARACHI, May 30 (APP):Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah, addressing the Members’ Convocation Ceremony for the Winter Batch 2024 of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP), stated that the rigorous journey to obtaining Chartered Accountant qualification instils discipline, ethics, and leadership qualities, transforming these professionals into trusted advisors and visionary leaders beyond mere numbers crunchers.
The event, held at a local hotel, celebrated the achievements of the newly qualified Chartered Accountants and highlighted their vital role in the country’s economic and professional landscape.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister expressed his honour and privilege to stand among Pakistan’s brightest young minds. He described the convocation as more than a formal event – a joyous celebration of talent, perseverance, and the promising future these professionals represent for Pakistan.
Murad Shah emphasised the prestige of ICAP, calling it a national institution with a stellar reputation both domestically and internationally. He noted that ICAP has consistently produced exceptional professionals who have become finance leaders, auditors, CEOs, advisors, and entrepreneurs, contributing significantly to economic growth and stability.
Highlighting the rigorous journey to becoming Chartered Accountants, the CM acknowledged that the qualification instils discipline, ethics, and leadership qualities that transform these professionals into trusted advisors and visionary leaders beyond mere number crunchers.
Mr Shah praised the elected governing Council of ICAP for safeguarding the profession’s independence, championing innovation, and maintaining the highest standards to keep the institute aligned with global best practices. This, he said, prepares members to compete and lead on the world stage.
To the newly qualified Chartered Accountants, the Chief Minister conveyed a powerful message: their success is not just about passing exams but about demonstrating dedication, consistency, and self-belief to achieve extraordinary milestones. He reminded them that their journey is just beginning and that their prestigious title carries worldwide respect and great responsibility.
The CM called on these professionals to lead with integrity, sound judgment, and courage, whether in boardrooms, public service, or entrepreneurship. He underscored Pakistan’s need for honest and capable leaders who set trends and drive meaningful change, especially in the public sector.
He also lauded ICAP’s commitment to merit, innovation, and professional excellence, recognising its crucial role in nurturing ethical and future-ready professionals.
Acknowledging the families present, the CM appreciated their sacrifices and support, stating that this achievement belongs to them as much as to the graduates.
In conclusion, he urged the new Chartered Accountants to take pride in their accomplishments and to look forward with purpose and determination. “Your real impact begins now,” he said. “You have the power to contribute meaningfully to our country’s development, and rest assured, Pakistan believes in you.”
The ceremony concluded with warm congratulations to the graduates, marking a significant milestone in their professional lives and a hopeful step forward for Pakistan’s future.

Uzma Kardar reviews polio eradication efforts in Multan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
MULTAN, May 30 (APP):Chief Minister Punjab’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, Uzma Kardar, visited Multan on Thursday to review the progress of the ongoing anti-polio campaign and assess the performance of the district health department.
During her visit, she inspected various urban localities and monitored the activities of polio vaccination teams. She also chaired a meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office to evaluate field operations and administrative support provided during the campaign.
Deputy Commissioner Wasim Hamid Sindhu briefed the focal person on the district’s polio strategy, noting that over 1.02 million children were successfully administered polio drops during the recent five-day campaign. He added that a comprehensive plan was executed across all union councils and that third-party screening of households was also conducted to ensure full coverage.
Uzma Kardar appreciated the district administration’s efforts and congratulated the DC and his team for achieving their targets without facing any refusals from parents. She emphasized that the recent samples collected from sewage showed clear results, which was an encouraging sign.
“Due to its geographical location, Multan is classified as a high-risk district, and the administration’s performance here is commendable,” she said, reiterating Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s policy of zero tolerance towards any negligence in polio eradication efforts.
Kardar highlighted that Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only two polio-endemic countries in the world, and the presence of the virus damages the country’s global image. She further said that the Punjab government is implementing strict measures due to recent polio cases reported from other provinces.
She assured that on the special directives of the Chief Minister, she is visiting all districts to ensure accountability and improvement in campaign quality. “The cold chain of the vaccine has been effectively maintained, and all missed children have been promptly traced and vaccinated,” she added.
Additional Deputy Commissioner General Muhammad Saif and Assistant Commissioners also attended the meeting.

PMDFC holds training on PPP for local govt officers

By
Asif Jalal
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RAWALPINDI, May 30 (APP):The Punjab Municipal Development Fund Company (PMDFC) in collaboration with German organization GIZ organized a training session on the Public Private Partnership (PPP) in Murree on Friday.
More than 50 officials including chief officers, municipal officers, deputy directors and assistant directors from across the province participated in the training.
Addressing the participants, chief guest Special Secretary Local Government Punjab Arshad Baig said that the Public Private Partnership was an effective model for local development through which public services could be improved by utilizing the expertise of the private sector.
“PPP has become indispensable for sustainable development,” he added and he exhorted the participants to put the knowledge gained from the training into practice for the improvement of municipal services.
Sanam Irshad, Advisor Good Governance, attended the session participated on behalf of GIZ. Punjab Local Government Board Secretary Rizwan Nazir, Additional Secretary Admin Maleeha Rashid, and deputy secretaries Shahid Latif, Farah Deeba, and Arsalan Ali were also present on the occasion.
PMDFC Managing Director Syed Zahid Aziz said that there was a huge scope for municipal service projects under the PPP model, and hoped that after the training session, officers of local bodies would be able to design projects in a better way.
He emphasized that the government was also providing necessary legislative and other support.
PMDFC General Manager Institutional Development Mahmood Masood Tamanna, GM Engineering Adnan Nisar and Deputy Manager ID Sohaib Rafique, and Moinuddin Sheikh (expert on PPP) also shared their experiences and expertise with the participants.
The participants were imparted detailed training on all stages of preparation, implementation and completion of PPP projects.

Court indicts six more PTI supporters in May 9 riots case

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Islamabad on Friday indicted six more Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters in a case related to the violent protests that followed the arrest of the party’s founder on May 9.
The hearing took place at the Anti-Terrorism Court in Islamabad, where Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra framed charges against the six accused. They denied the allegations during the proceedings.
This case stems from the events of May 9, 2023, when PTI workers across the country staged violent protests after the arrest of the former party chief outside the Islamabad High Court. The protests led to attacks on several government buildings and military sites.
According to police, a total of 48 individuals are now formally charged in the case. Charges had already been filed against 42 people before, while the court has now added six more names to the list of accused.
The case is being heard in connection with an FIR registered at Shams Colony Police Station, which relates to the incidents of arson and vandalism during the protests.
The court has adjourned the proceedings until July 3, when it will resume hearings.
The May 9 protests included demonstrations outside the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, where PTI supporters damaged security barriers and other installations. In Lahore, the historic Jinnah House was attacked and set on fire. In Peshawar, the state-run Radio Pakistan building was also torched. Several other public buildings across cities were damaged in the unrest.
Following the unrest, police launched a crackdown on PTI workers and supporters involved in the violence. Dozens have been arrested and are now facing trial in various cities, with some cases being heard in anti-terrorism courts due to the nature of the charges.
The government has stated that those involved in planning or executing the attacks on public property and military sites will be prosecuted under strict laws, including anti-terrorism legislation.

Saudi Grand Mufti urges all pilgrims to receive mandatory vaccinations

By
Asif Jalal
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0
By Rehan Khan
RIYADH, May 30 (APP):The Grand Mufti of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Al-Sheikh, in a message to Muslims preparing for Hajj 1446 AH, has called for full compliance with official guidelines, underscoring the religious and civic importance of obtaining a valid Hajj permit.
As the President of the Council of Senior Scholars and the General Presidency for Scholarly Research and Ifta, the Grand Mufti emphasized that performing Hajj without an official permit constitutes a serious religious violation. “It is not only a breach of public order but also contradicts the principles of Sharia, which aim to preserve harmony, prevent chaos, and ensure the welfare of society,” he stated.
He cautioned that ignoring the regulations set forth by the relevant Hajj authorities is a form of disobedience to the leadership and weakens the sacred objectives of the pilgrimage. “Those who bypass the official process commit a sin that disrupts the sanctity and order of this great spiritual journey,” he added.
Highlighting the health dimension of this global religious gathering, Sheikh Al Al-Sheikh also urged all pilgrims to receive the mandatory vaccinations recommended by the Ministry of Health. He reiterated that safeguarding public health is a religious obligation, especially during an event that brings together millions of Muslims from across the world.
The Grand Mufti further called on pilgrims to cooperate fully with security and health personnel, strictly following all instructions to ensure a safe and spiritually enriching experience. He warned that negligence or non-compliance could result in legal repercussions and compromise the foundational goals of Hajj – worship, security, and peace.
Commending the tireless efforts of the Saudi leadership, the Grand Mufti expressed deep appreciation for the government’s commitment to serving pilgrims. He praised the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued dedication to facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage.
“The Kingdom’s exceptional preparations and resource allocation reflect a deep sense of responsibility and care toward the guests of Allah,” the Grand Mufti said, adding that the efforts of the Saudi authorities play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, security, and spiritual fulfillment of every pilgrim.
Hajj 1446 AH is expected to draw millions of pilgrims from around the world, and the Kingdom has reiterated its commitment to upholding the highest standards of organization, health, and security in collaboration with international partners and Islamic communities worldwide.

European Union (EU) delegation, led by Mr. Jeroen Willems, EU Head of Cooperation in Pakistan met with Secretary MoHR, Ms. Humera Ahmad to Discuss Human Rights Cooperation and GSP+ Monitoring

By
Khuram Maryam
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0
European Union (EU) delegation, led by Mr. Jeroen Willems, EU Head of Cooperation in Pakistan met with Secretary MoHR, Ms. Humera Ahmad to Discuss Human Rights Cooperation and GSP+ Monitoring
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