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China eyes growing opportunities in Pakistan’s evolving healthcare sector, tapping into medical tourism demand: Ma Jian

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Pakistan’s healthcare sector is rapidly evolving, with China eyeing significant opportunities to tap into its growing demand for medical tourism, said Ma Jian, representative of the Sichuan Liaison Office of the China-Pakistan Business Council.

Speaking at a roundtable dialogue on ‘Cross-Border Medical Tourism’ as part of the 2024 World Medical Tourism and Global Healthcare (Boao) Forum (WMTF) recently held in the picturesque Chinese city of Haikou, he highlighted the unique blend of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern medical practices offered by China, particularly Hainan, as a prime destination for Pakistani patients seeking world-class treatments at competitive prices, China Economic Net reported on Saturday.

“China boasts advanced medical technologies, groundbreaking drugs and a rich heritage of traditional medicines,” Ma Jian emphasized.

He cited China’s biotechnology innovations in stem cell therapy for anti-aging and chronic degenerative diseases, as well as immune cell and gene therapies for cancer, as world-class offerings that hold exceptional value for international patients.

The global recognition of TCM is on the rise, and Ma Jian sees immense potential in attracting Pakistani patients seeking alternative or complementary therapies. “There is a growing presence of Chinese medicines in Pakistan, with products like Huoxiang Zhengqi Liquid and Lianhua Qingwen capsule already approved and proving their efficacy in treating various conditions,” he added.

He noted that the global market for medical tourism is colossal, generating over US$600 billion in revenue last year alone. However, he acknowledged that collaboration between Pakistan and China in this sector is still in its infancy. “There is ample room for growth, especially in medical services and pharmaceuticals,” he stressed.

Ma Jian emphasized the need to expand the scope of treatments offered in Pakistan’s TCM clinics, including hot compresses, physiotherapy, and massage therapies. “This will provide Pakistani patients with a wider range of options and enhance their overall healthcare experience,” he added.

In the realm of pharmaceuticals, China’s advancements in biotechnology and traditional medicines present numerous opportunities for Pakistani enterprises. “By leveraging China’s expertise, Pakistani companies can introduce innovative products and treatments to their market, thereby improving healthcare outcomes and access,” Ma Jian explained.

To facilitate seamless cross-border healthcare experiences, he underscored the importance of legal frameworks, streamlined visa procedures, and improved services, particularly in English proficiency. “As we receive increasing inquiries from Pakistani patients seeking treatments like rehabilitation in China, addressing these issues becomes even more crucial,” he concluded.

Sharing dialogue on Nutrition Innovations; Exhibition held

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP):A two-day event titled “Nutrition Care Synergies Experience Sharing and Innovations Showcase” was held at Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, by International Rescue Committee (IRC) in collaboration with Department of Health Sindh, Accelerated Action Plan Taskforce (AAP TF), Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) and Medical Emergency Resilience Foundation (MERF).

The Nutrition Exhibition and experience sharing event brought together experts and stakeholders from various government, UN, and International, national and local non-government organizations to discuss strategies, innovations, and experiences in combating malnutrition in Pakistan, a news release said.

Organized in the frame of the EU funded Project “Strengthening Local Civil Society and Community-based Organisations and their Capacity in the Nutrition Sector in Sindh” with the aim of fostering collaboration and learning, the event provided a platform for sharing best practices in nutrition care and service delivery.

The event featured keynotes and presentations from leading experts and community leaders, including representatives from the Department of Health Sindh, Accelerated Action Plan Taskforce (AAP TF), Lady Health Worker Department, PPHI, UNICEF, WHO, Agha Khan Health Service, Pakistan, VIAMO, Aga Khan University, IRC, SPO, MERF, SRSO and SIEHSs who deliberated on indigenous and innovative solutions. The event also provided opportunity to local civil society organizations, service departments, communities, youth and other humanitarian actors to share their experiences and learning around nutrition programming in Sindh. The event provided an opportunity to exchange learning through stalls from various organizations, CSOs, academia, theater performance, seminars and interaction with experts.

Speaking at the event, Mr Carlo De Rosa, Development Advisor for Rural Development and Nutrition at the EU delegation to Pakistan, noted that “The exhibition highlights the critical need for synergy among all partners and Civil Society Organizations involved in nutrition programming. By sharing experiences and integrating innovative technologies, we can better address malnutrition.” He further noted that the role of academic institutions is crucial in bringing forth innovative ideas and adds immense value to programming.

Dr Sahib Jan Badar, representing AAP TF presented an overview of Accelerated Action Plan Taskforce achievements and reaffirmed the support of Government of Sindh and stated “The European Union funded CSO strengthening initiative is aligned with the Government of Sindh multi-sectoral Accelerated Action Plan for improved nutrition. Local CSOs are the heart and soul of our communities, and it is through their tireless efforts that we can collaboratively combat malnutrition.”
Dr. Farhana Memon, Director Lady Health Worker Program highlighted the importance of nutrition among children and pregnant and lactating mothers and highlighted that now it’s time to deliver results with commitment. She shared experiences in strengthening services and assured full support to combat malnutrition.

Vice Chancellor (SALU) Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk applauded this initiative for bringing together diverse stakeholders to address the critical issue of malnutrition in Pakistan. He assured commitment to not only fostering research but also piloting academic courses on malnutrition to equip future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to combat this pressing challenge.

A panel discussion on leveraging technology to combat malnutrition through the innovations to access hard-to-reach areas and leveraging upon technology showcased on real-world experiences, shared insights from the field. In conjunction to the importance of tech solutions the IRC under EU funded project presented 250 Android Tablets for Strengthening Information Management System to PPHI Sindh.

The exhibition featured a range of interactive activities aimed at fostering collaboration and raising awareness about nutrition care. One of the key highlights was the exhibition of stalls and booths where participants from civil society organizations, UN agencies, I/NGOs, government departments, and private sector companies displayed their programming and services. This provided attendees with a comprehensive look at the diverse efforts being undertaken to address malnutrition.

Additionally, service and product demonstrations offered participants hands-on insights into nutrition-related services and innovations. These interactive sessions allowed attendees to explore practical solutions that could be implemented to improve nutrition care. Educational materials such as brochures and leaflets were also distributed to raise awareness and inform stakeholders about best practices in nutrition service delivery.

Dr Ranomanl Lohano, Program Coordinator at IRC, reflected on the need for community-driven solutions and said, “Malnutrition is a complex issue that requires not only technical interventions but also the engagement of local communities. Our work highlights the importance of grassroots involvement in tackling this crisis and ensuring sustainable improvements in health outcomes.”

In Pakistan, the European Union’s support to nutrition commenced with humanitarian assistance after the 2010 floods. Since 2013 this assistance has taken a long-term and sustainable perspective by assisting public departments to deliver nutrition services, within a clear and efficient policy framework. The EU assistance has greatly contributed to the improvement of nutrition. Through the EU supported Strengthening Local Civil Society and Community-based Organisations and their Capacity in the Nutrition Sector in Sindh Project, IRC, MERF and SPO are reinforcing the capacity of 15 local organizations through technical and financial support to foster policy dialogues aimed at informing policy makers with evidence-based findings to shape policies that ultimately help improve health and nutrition services for the most deserving communities.

PM calls for further strenuous efforts to continue economic stability 

By
Irfan Khan
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LONDON, Sep 28 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said that the collective efforts by all the stakeholders in the government had put Pakistan on the path of economic stability and progress and called for further strenuous efforts and sacrifices to achieve the economic objectives.  

During a media interaction, the prime minister elaborated that during their previous tenure of sixteen months in the government, they faced the financial challenges but with collective efforts, they saved Pakistan from running into default.  

Earlier, the prime minister arrived from New York where he had addressed the plenary meeting of the UN General Debate at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). 

In a veiled reference to previous government of Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI), he said the former party’s policies led the country to default, but ‘with grace of Allah Almighty and with their collective efforts, Pakistan is now moving towards stability and progress. The international institutions also acknowledged it’. 

The prime minister also expressed his satisfaction over the approval of $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) extended fund facility.  

Comparing last year’s 32 percent spiraling inflation rate, he said now the price hike stood at 9.6 percent, adding the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) had also reduced the interest rate while the rates of daily commodities were showing stability.  

Prime Minister Sharif said the inflation rate had nosedived but still “Everything is not a hunky-dory. We have to sweat hard and broaden the tax net without burdening those already paying it.”  

He said the common people had always sacrificed for the country. Now, it was time for the elite to sacrifice for the country and play their part in the country’s progress.  

The prime minister thanked the brotherly countries particularly the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and time-tested friend China for their support in securing the IMF programme and said that without their support, it would not have been possible.  

“I particularly thank them for their support to steer Pakistan out of economic straits” he said and commended the efforts of ministers of finance, foreign affairs, secretary finance, officials and ambassadors who made efforts in this regard.  

The prime minister lauded the chief of army staff for his efforts in achieving the IMF programme and said that the COAS had visited the brotherly countries which provided critical economic relief to Pakistan.  

Terming it a ‘team Pakistan’s work’, he expressed the hope that the IMF’s programme would be the last one as the 240 million people and the government’s efforts would accomplish it successfully.  

He stressed that they would have to reduce their expenditures and strive to provide amenities to the public at their doorsteps. “Time has arrived to work hard and uphold merit which should be their hallmarks.”  

The prime minister also reiterated his call for a ‘charter of economy’. 

About his participation in the UNGA annual session, he highlighted that he had held useful meetings with different leaders of various countries including the UK, Bangladesh, Türkiye, Kuwait and others which would help to further foster their bilateral and brotherly ties.  

“I have made a humble effort to convey voice of the people of Pakistan to the world over Palestine and Gaza where more than 40,000 people including children had been martyred,” he said, adding that gruesome Israeli attacks continued on Beirut which was strongly condemned by Pakistan.  

The prime minister said that in his speech, he had reiterated the call for immediate ceasefire and stressed upon the international community to wake up and work for an immediate independent Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders, besides stressed for its representation in the UN. 

He said that he also apprised the session of the grave situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) where the Kashmiri people had been fighting for their legitimate rights and shedding bloodshed. They had been facing brute aggression and violence by the Indian illegal occupation forces.  

Modi’s government with its unilateral and illegal steps had deprived IIOJK of its special status which was violation of the respective UN resolutions and other global human rights calls. Terror and aggression in IIOJK should end and the Kashmiri people should be given the right to hold plebiscite to independence, he added. 

The prime minister, without naming PTI, also termed the 9th May riots targeting Jinnah’s House, GHQ and showing disrespect for the martyrs’ graves as ‘an unpardonable act’. 

He also expressed his optimism that Pakistan would soon become an ‘Asian Tiger’ as pronounced by his leader and former prime minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif whose efforts had put Pakistan on path of rapid progress and economic stability.  

He regretted that Nawaz Sharif’s governments were removed through conspiracies.  

 

ICT Police intensified crackdown against wrong parking violators

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) under the special directions of Inspector General (IG) Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, the ICT Police has launched a campaign against those involved in parking their vehicles wrongly and creating problems in smooth flow of traffic by occupying footpath areas.
According to a police statement the Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Muhammad Sarfraz Virk is monitoring this whole campaign by himself.
Muhammad Sarfraz Virk directed all Zonal DSPs to ensure implementation of traffic laws and take action against those involved in creating problems for traffic discipline in the city, he said.
CTO Islamabad said that it is the right of pedestrians to use footpaths and no parking would be allowed there, He said.
CTO said that vehicles should be parked at lots specified at shopping centers while awareness campaigns should be launched to educate citizens, he added.
Moreover, the Islamabad Police also issued fine tickets to those involved in wrong parking while several vehicles were impounded at various police stations for not vacating footpath areas, he said.
The CTO said that it is our top priority to ensure convenience for road users by maintaining traffic discipline and every possible effort would be made for the purpose, he added.
Sarfraz Virk said that squads have been constituted for the purpose of removing illegal parking and vacating footpaths while indiscriminate action would be taken against violators, he said.
 Virk said that this operation would be extended to the other areas of Islamabad and smooth traffic flow to be ensured, he added.

Winners of RTI Quiz Contest announced

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0

ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP):Chief Information Commissioner Shoaib Ahmad Siddiqui has emphasized that the fundamental right to information, granted under the Article 19-A of Constitution of Pakistan, is strengthening the relationship between citizens and Government of Pakistan through promoting the culture of transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment.

He made these remarks while announcing the winners of the Pakistan RTI Quiz Contest 2024, organized by the Pakistan Information Commission in collaboration with the Press Network of Pakistan, on the occasion of International Day for Universal Access to Information.

“Today, International Day for Universal Access to Information marks a global commitment to ensure that every person has the equal right to seek and share information,” the Chief Information Commissioner stated in a video message to congratulate the quiz winners.

“In addition, the global day provides an opportunity to review progress and efforts made by the Pakistan Information Commission in order to empower Pakistani citizens for accessing the information, being held by public authorities,” he said, while lauding the Press Network of Pakistan for a successful collaboration in organizing a nationwide RTI Quiz Contest to raise public awareness, especially among university students, journalists and youngsters. According to him, informed citizens obviously are in a good position to make informed decisions in the best interest of Pakistan.

“Quiz contests have been recognized as an effective tool for learning, fostering community engagement, knowledge sharing and encouraging healthy competition throughout the globe,” Sabahuddin Qazi, Chief Executive of the Press Network of Pakistan stated, emphasizing that: “The Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, is indeed a landmark achievement in our national journey towards transparency, prosperity and accountability.”

Revealing some interesting details about the RTI Quiz Contest, he said that the contest played a vital role in shaping a knowledge-based society in which informed, educated, curious, and active citizens are empowered to learn and exercise their fundamental right.

The RTI Quiz Contest 2024, jointly organized by the Pakistan Information Commission and the Press Network of Pakistan, aimed to raise public awareness regarding the significance of Right of Access of Information, which is a key driver for the achievement of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and in particular SDG Goal 16 that promotes “just, peaceful and inclusive societies”.

According to the statistics shared by the organizers, a total number of 2,511 entries have been submitted throughout the country, in which 49.98% were females, where as a good number of citizens residing in remote areas, including Burewala, Chitral, Daska, Mithi, Skardu, Quetta, and Azad Kashmir, also shown keen interest in the contest.

SDPO visits Military Hospital (MH), inquired about hospitalized cop

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Industrial Area Syed Sajjad Hussain Bukhari visited Military Hospital (MH) to see Constable Nasir Mehmood, who was undergoing treatment.
A public relations officer told APP on Saturday during the visit, the SDPO inquired about his health and treatment progress.
The SDPO stated that officers are valuable assets of the police department, highlighting a sense of camaraderie and unity within the department, he said.
He asserted that everyone within the department is like a family, ensuring that no officer or official would ever feel alone during challenging times, he added.
This sentiment aims to foster a supportive and caring environment within the police department, SDPO said.

Bangladesh edge Pakistan on penalties in SAFF U17 C’ship

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Bangladesh secured a dramatic 8-7 victory over Pakistan in a nail-biting penalty shootout to advance to the final of the SAFF U-17 Championship 2024, held in Bhutan.

The match started with both teams creating early chances but failing to find the net, said a press release.

Pakistan took the lead in the 32nd minute when Muhammad Shahab Ahmed scored a well-taken goal, putting his side ahead 1-0. Pakistan extended their lead in the 62nd minute, with Abdul Rehman calmly converting a penalty to make it 2-0.
Despite the setback, Bangladesh fought back fiercely.

Their persistence paid off in the 74th minute when MD Manik scored, cutting Pakistan’s lead to 2-1. In extra time, Manik again found the net, equalizing in the 94th minute to force the match into a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, both teams displayed remarkable composure, with the score locked at 7-7 after the regular five penalties.

Pakistan missed their eighth penalty, and Bangladesh successfully converted theirs to win the match 8-7. Bangladesh now advance to face India in the final, set to take place on September 30.

Azma praises PM Shehbaz’s speech at UN about Kashmir, Palestine

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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LAHORE, Sep 28 (APP):Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari on Saturday paid tribute to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for effectively presenting Kashmir and Palestine issues during his speech at the United Nations.
While addressing a press conference here she said that PM Shehbaz Sharif boycotted the speech of Israeli Prime Minister, which was followed by the world. She said that reaching an agreement with International Monetary Fund was the success of the incumbent government.
Azma Bukhari said country’s economic indicators were moving in the right direction, adding that all financial institutions were predicting that inflation in Pakistan would further reduce. She said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had announced ‘Himat Card’ for visually impaired persons prior to their protest. The PML-N was the only political party which gave employment to visually impaired persons, she said and added that Punjab government was launching various initiatives for strengthening of different sectors.

33 mln children vaccinated in September polio campaign

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme on Saturday convened the high-level review meeting to assess the last immunization campaign’s outcomes.

A meeting chaired by Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq reviewed the September Polio campaign.

The meeting was informed that the drive reached nearly 33 million children, and assured to continue focused efforts to protect Pakistani children from devastating effects of polio.

Led by PM’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) for Polio Eradication, Anwarul Haq, and provincial EOC coordinators reviewed campaign progress in all 116 districts that were covered, the successes and challenges and the way forward to implement more polio campaigns.

During the large-scale campaign that began on September 9, nearly 33 million children under the age of five across 116 districts were vaccinated, marking a significant milestone in the national effort to eradicate polio.

The campaign was specially focused on vaccinating children in high-risk areas where the virus has been detected persistently and was meant to ensure protection for children from the crippling poliovirus.

Congratulating the team for conducting an effective campaign that reached its target, Ayesha Raza Farooq said that through renewed focus on plugging gaps in campaign operations, the program is back on track towards eradication.

“We saw strong inter-provincial coordination and collaboration between provincial governments, health teams, and law enforcement agencies.”

“We also made tremendous efforts to update our understanding of migrant and mobile populations to be able to better reach these moving communities and vaccinate vulnerable children,” she said.

“We are seeing progress in some key areas, but we will see there is still much work to do as we prepare for the October campaign.”

The PM’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza, highlighted the strong coordination among provinces that was a hallmark of the September polio campaign.

Ayesha reaffirmed that the program, supported by the government, is implementing a comprehensive strategic plan to eradicate polio by mid-2025, focusing on high-quality campaigns, targeted outbreak responses, and strengthening routine immunization.

NEOC Coordinator Captain Anwaarul Haq emphasized the need for ongoing improvements, especially in response to the recent polio cases.

“Despite the progress we’ve made, the emergence of new cases is a clear reminder that our efforts are not yet complete.”

“We have two additional campaigns scheduled for October and November 2024, which will focus on closing the gaps identified in the September campaign and strengthening vaccination efforts in hard-to-reach areas,” he stated.

So far in 2024, Pakistan has reported 24 cases of polio, with the latest case from Hyderabad district in Sindh.

The review meeting reaffirmed the program’s priority of reaching mobile and migratory populations, enhancing transit teams’ outreach, and ensuring that vaccination efforts meet the highest standards.

Ayesha expressed gratitude for the continued support from the government, donors, and partners.

“With the unwavering backing of our government and partners, we will safeguard our children and bring Pakistan closer to eradicating polio.”

The Pakistan Polio Eradication Program remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate polio and protect future generations from the debilitating effects of polio.

Police nab 25 criminals, narcotics, weapons seized

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP):Islamabad Police apprehended 25 criminals involved in different criminal activities, including drug peddling and possessing illegal weapons in different raids during last 24 hours.
A public relations officer told APP on Saturday that police teams also recovered drugs and weapons with ammunition from their possession.
In this regard, the Islamabad Police Aabpara, Sumbal, Tarnol, Sangjani, Industrial Area, Noon, Shams Colony and Koral police station teams took legal action against accused involved in drug peddling, selling liquor and possessing illegal weapons.
Police teams arrested 13 accused involved in drug peddling and possessing illegal weapons and recovered 1,375 gram heroin, 3,500 gram hashish, 110 gram Ice, 10 Liters of liquor, two daggers and five pistols with ammunition from their possession. Moreover, 12 absconders were also arrested during the last 24 hours.
Inspector General of Police IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, said that the Islamabad Police are actively working to ensure the safety of citizens’ lives and property in the federal capital, emphasizing that no elements will be allowed to disrupt citizens’ peace.
Protecting the lives, property, and dignity of citizens is the Islamabad Police’s top priority, he added.
Citizens are urged to report any suspicious activities to the relevant police station, emergency helpline “Pukar-15,” or the “ICT 15” app to help make the city crime-free through cooperation between the police and the public.
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