XIAN: September 21 –
Federal Minister for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik meets with the Governor Mr. Zhao Gang of Shaanxi province.
XIAN: September 21 –
Terrible sight of ‘revolution,’ ‘popularity’ in Lahore: Marriyum Aurangzeb
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Saturday there was a terrible sight of “revolution” and “popularity” in Lahore.
Marriyum Aurangzeb gave a statement on the social media website (x) and said that the scheduled time for the PTI meeting started with a low number of supporters and even three dozen seats had not been filled.
A failed attempt was made in the “minds” of their supporters by releasing fake and old videos in the last rally through the media. The senior provincial minister said that they have been rejected from Punjab, therefore, efforts are being made to set up an anarchic circus with government employees and government machinery of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
She said that the province’s rescue vehicles, ambulances, bringing cranes from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Punjab to spread “political chaos” in the province, is their real face. We are releasing the real scenes so that there is no doubt, she added.
CPB organises first-ever wedding ceremony of children raised under its care
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Under the guidance of Chairperson Sarah Ahmad, the Child Protection Bureau organized its first-ever wedding ceremony for children raised under its care. Chairperson Sarah Ahmad led this historic initiative, which resulted in the marriage of two couples who were brought up in the bureau.
Chairperson Sarah Ahmad shared that, for the first time, the bureau facilitated the marriage of two boys and two girls who were raised there. She stated that this is a significant achievement for the bureau, as it not only provides protection to children but also creates opportunities for them to move forward in life. The couples who tied the knot include Aamir and Farah, as well as Zubair and Nazia. Notably, one of the couples is hearing and speech impaired. With the bureau’s support, these couples are now capable of leading a dignified life.
The children had no information regarding their parents or guardians and spent over ten years in the bureau. Today, they are over 20 years of age. Sarah Ahmad highlighted that the bureau provided them not only with education but also taught them various skills, enabling them to begin this new chapter in their lives. Additionally, the Bureau has secured employment opportunities for both couples.
Chairperson Sarah Ahmad emphasized that, despite the challenges, these children are now able to live dignified lives thanks to the efforts of the Child Protection Bureau. The bureau continues to provide not only care and upbringing but also prepares children for a better future.
Chairperson Sarah Ahmad said that we are very grateful to QYT for sponsoring the event decor. She also extended her best wishes for the bright future of the couples and expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the wedding.
Cultural Day hosted by Pakistan Forum Luxembourg showcases rich Pakistani traditions
LUXEMBOURG, Sep 21 (APP): The Pakistan Forum Luxembourg (PFL) organized a vibrant Cultural Day in Luxembourg, showcasing Pakistan’s rich traditions and promoting cultural exchange while engaging both the local Luxembourgish community and the Pakistani diaspora.
The Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Pakistan in Brussels, Faraz Zaidi, attended the event. The event aimed to promote cultural promotion and understanding.
Visitors enjoyed traditional Pakistani cuisine, with food stalls offering a range of regional dishes that provided an authentic culinary experience. From savory curries to sweet delicacies, the cuisine was a highlight, showcasing Pakistan’s diverse gastronomic landscape.
The event also featured stalls displaying handmade arts and crafts, including textiles, pottery, and jewellery. These creations reflected the rich artisanal traditions of Pakistan, offering attendees a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind these works.
Families and children engaged in carnival-style games and activities, creating a fun and inclusive environment. The lively atmosphere was further enriched by live music performances featuring traditional Pakistani music, which added to the festive spirit of the day.
In his brief remarks, Zaidi expressed appreciation for the Pakistan Forum Luxembourg’s efforts in organizing the event. He noted, “This Cultural Day offers a valuable opportunity to share Pakistan’s rich culture with the people of Luxembourg, fostering mutual understanding and community ties.”
The Pakistan Forum Luxembourg continues its active role in promoting Pakistani culture and heritage in the region. This event marked another meaningful initiative to build bridges between Pakistan and Luxembourg.
SHO Sangjani jailed for unlawful detention of citizens without charges
ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police arrested Station House Officer (SHO) Asim Ali Zaidi of Sangjani police station on Saturday for illegally detaining two citizens without filing any case against them.
According to a police spokesperson, SHO Asim Zaidi had unlawfully detained two Kashmiri citizens, Shahbaz Sharif and Muhammad Saeed, at the Sangjani police station.
He said that the SHO kept the individuals in custody for 19 days without filing any charges. According to the FIR (First Information Report), a case has been registered against SHO Asim Zaidi under Section 342 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which pertains to wrongful confinement, and C-155 of the Police Order, following a report by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Tarnol Circle Ansar Ahmed.
The police spokesperson emphasized that the ICT Police strictly adheres to a system of self-accountability.He said following his arrest, the SHO was presented in court, where the police requested his judicial remand.
Judicial Magistrate Muhammad Azhar Nadeem approved the request and ordered that the accused SHO Asim Ali Zaidi be sent to jail on judicial remand, he added.
7 dead,1527 injured in 1377 RTCs in Punjab
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Seven persons were killed and 1527 injured in 1377 Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs) in all 37 districts of Punjab during the last 24 hours. Out of these, 645 people with serious injuries were shifted to different hospitals, while 882 victims with minor injuries were treated at the incident site by Rescue Medical Teams thus reducing the burden of hospitals.
Furthermore, the analysis showed those 763 drivers, 71 underage drivers, 192 pedestrians, and 579 passengers were among the victims of road traffic crashes. The statistics show that 266 RTCs were reported in Lahore which affected 300 persons placing the Provincial Capital at top of the list followed by Faisalabad 105 in with 110 victims and at third Multan with 94 RTCs and 104 victims.
According to the data 1256 motorbikes, 71 auto-rickshaws, 126 motorcars, 30 vans, 13 passenger buses, 35 truck and 105 other types of auto vehicles and carts were involved in these road traffic accidents.
Free Wi-Fi service scope widens
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expanded the scope of the “CM Maryam Nawaz Free Wi-Fi” project. According to the details, free Wi-Fi service has been provided at over 230 locations in Lahore, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, and Sheikhupura. In line with the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the reach of the free Wi-Fi service in Punjab continues to grow. The Safe City project provides free Wi-Fi at 200 points in Lahore, 10 in Kasur, 15 in Sheikhupura, and 5 in Nankana Sahib.
From June 16 until now, in just three months, 7.7 million users have consumed 111 TB of data, with an average availability of 98.7 percent. A spokesperson for the Safe Cities Authority stated that the free internet service is facilitating education, business, and social connections. “We are transforming Punjab into a digital province, and the free Wi-Fi service is an important step in this direction. Citizens are utilizing the free Wi-Fi service to ease their daily lives,” the spokesperson added.
Alhamra’s kids carnival kicks off
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):The Lahore Arts Council (Alhamra) launched its much-anticipated Kids Carnival, a vibrant event that will introduce children to their cultural roots through the magic of art, here on Saturday.
The two-day festival, from September 21 to 22, at the Alhamra Arts Center, the Mall, is designed to provide children with a memorable and educational experience while entertaining the whole family.
The event features a diverse and impressive lineup of activities for all ages, ensuring something for everyone. From magic shows, puppet theatre, storytelling, and a gaming zone to live face painting and outdoor play areas, every child is guaranteed to find something exciting to do. Various stalls are also set up, offering interactive experiences and cultural insights.
Executive Director Alhamra Sarah Rashid emphasized the crucial role of such events in fostering creativity and cultural awareness among children. She remarked, “Alhamra is not just an arts council, but a nursery of creativity where children can immerse themselves in their cultural heritage from an early age. This carnival is a significant step towards instilling pride in our traditions and providing quality family entertainment.”
The Kids Carnival marks a significant effort by Alhamra to engage the younger generation in cultural activities. The diverse indoor and outdoor attractions captivated children and their parents, making it a family event of high repute.
With Alhamra’s mission to cultivate a love for art and culture from an early age, the Kids Carnival is expected to break attendance records. It offers a unique blend of fun and learning and continues Alhamra’s legacy of providing high-quality cultural entertainment, further cementing its position as a leading cultural institution.
Families are encouraged to attend this immersive cultural experience as the carnival promises two days of joy, creativity, and discovery for all.
Rana Tanveer initiates process to enhance provincial coordination for SMEs development
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain has initiated a process to enhance coordination with provincial governments for equitable development of the SMEs across the country as per advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
In this regard, he held a meeting with Punjab government’s Industries department at PCOM, according to a SMEDA spokesman here Saturday. The meeting was also attended by Ehsan Bhutta, Secretary Industries Punjab, and Ms. Saira Umar, Managing Director PSIC, from the Punjab government. The minister was accompanied by Saif Anjum, Federal Secretary Industries and Production and Socrat Aman Rana, Chief Executive Officer of SMEDA. A number of the other senior officers including GM SMEDA Ms. Saleha Saeed and Ms. Nadia Jehangir Seth.
Addressing the meeting, the federal minister said that that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) plays a crucial role in the economy of any country, contributing significantly to employment generation, economic growth, innovation, and social stability. SMEs are essential drivers of economic development, job creation, innovation, and social progress. The Small Medium Enterprises have momentous role in economic development of the country. Small businesses can play a key role in shaping the national growth strategy, he said, adding the development and progress of Small Medium Enterprises are top priority of the current government. The government is determined to maintain equitable development of SMEs in all provinces of the country that is why a coordination process has been initiated with provinces on direction of the PM, he said and assured that the government will facilitate and incentivize SMEs to achieve optimal economic growth in the country. He said that such coordination meetings would also be held with other province on regular basis to maintain a conducive support mechanism for SMEs across the country.
The federal minister further said that improving small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan require a comprehensive approach addressing various aspects ranging from regulatory frameworks to access to finance and technology. The federal government will immediately take all necessary steps to facilitate SMEs for economic uplift of the people. We shall implement structural reforms such as streamlining regulations and taxes for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to promote growth and job creation, he added.
Punjab ministers say people rejected PTI call for rally
LAHORE, Sep 21 (APP):Punjab ministers have stated that the people of Pakistan have rejected the Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) by boycotting its rally in Lahore.
In a joint press conference on Saturday, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari, Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir and Law Minister Sohaib Barath declared that the PTI’s inability to gather a large crowd in Lahore exposed the party’s diminishing influence.
Azma Bukhari emphasized that the Punjab government ensured that no roads were blocked and that all entry points to the city, including Shahdara, Thokar Niaz Baig, and the Ring Road, remained open. She claimed that fewer than 3,000 people attended the rally from across the country, which highlighted the public’s disinterest in PTI’s politics. She also accused PTI of using Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s resources for political activities in Punjab and criticized KPK Chief Minister Ali Ameen Gandapur for prioritizing political gatherings over public service.
Bukhari alleged that the PTI government in KP had failed to address the needs of its people and was wasting resources on rallies. She expressed gratitude to the people of Punjab and Lahore for rejecting PTI’s “agenda of unrest” and supporting the current government’s performance.
Addressing the PTI founder, Bukhari claimed that Khan is attempting to seek an NRO through his rallies, particularly concerning the 190 million pound case and the Toshakhana case. She refuted PTI’s allegations that the government obstructed the rally, saying the containers used by PTI had gotten stuck under bridges due to their own mismanagement.
Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir echoed these sentiments, stating that the people have recognized the negative politics of the PTI. He highlighted Punjab’s advancements in healthcare, including the establishment of hospitals that have attracted patients from KPK, and credited Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for her dedication to public service, including the recent launch of a pediatric cardiac program.
Law Minister Sohaib Barath criticized PTI leaders for using infrastructure built by the PML-N, such as the Motorway, while accusing the opposition party of failing to provide for its own constituency. He stressed that the public can no longer be deceived by empty slogans and demanded that PTI show tangible results for its governance.
The ministers concluded by asserting that PTI’s sole agenda is to destabilize the country, while the PML-N remains focused on progress and public welfare.