Foreign exchange rates

Fri, 19 Jan 2024, 10:23 AM

KARACHI, Jan 19 (APP): The Exchange Rates Committee of Financial Markets Association of Pakistan issued the following Exchange rates bulletin, here on Friday.

CONVERSION RATES FOR JANUARY 19, 2024 FOR FOREIGN CURRENCY FOR FORWARD COVER FOR DEPOSITS (EXCLUDING FE 25 DEPOSITS)

SBP SETTLEMENT VALUE DATE JANUARY 23, 2024

USD 279.8571
GBP 355.0267
EUR 304.4845
JPY 1.8932

APP/mzr/

Pak-US relations set on boosting economy, trade: Masood Khan

NNPS Desk

Fri, 19 Jan 2024, 10:02 AM

WASHINGTON, Jan 19 (APP): : Pakistan-US relations are strengthening in both security and non-security areas, with a special focus on investment and trade cooperation that emphasize the utility of the recently launched platform of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), Ambassador Masood Khan has said.

“We must be partners … we must continue to talk to each other and resolve issues that would hinder peace and security in the region, but, more importantly, we must develop people-to-people contacts and increase economic cooperation”, the Pakistani envoy told a large audience in the prestigious University Club in Washington D.C.

The club’s International Committee had invited Ambassador Masood Khan to speak on a wide array of subjects.

The audience comprised members of the think-tank community, businessmen, entrepreneurs, opinion makers, and the media.

Highlighted the importance of Pak-US relations, the ambassador cited the presence of 80 US companies in Pakistan, he said that the US has a standing advantage because of it’s companies’ experience in Pakistan spanning decades and their existing investment infrastructure in the country.

In the field of education and technology, he termed the recently renewed Pakistan-U.S. Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement transformative and stressed that its potential should be fully utilized for higher education, research and development, and technological collaboration.

Identifying the sectors of agriculture, energy, IT, and mineral extraction, Masood Khan showcased the tremendous potential for investors to invest in Pakistan through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

“We also need to collaborate in the realm of renewables, healthcare, education, and IT sector, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The IT sector is transformative for Pakistan, and the United States, particularly tech entrepreneurs and major capitalists, are heavily investing in Pakistan.” he reiterated.

Ambassador Masood Khan also spoke about Pakistan-India relations and the importance of dialogue to resolve long-standing issues, including the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir, in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

“The quest for peace must continue. And our stance has been that we should resolve the outstanding issues between India and Pakistan through dialogue,” he said.

Both Pakistan and India, he noted, were headed towards elections. “Let’s hope that a new leadership in both countries explores diplomacy to address outstanding issues.”

Underscoring the need for strategic balance in the region, Ambassador Masood Khan emphasized responsible nuclear stewardship from all the states to ensure security for all.

Ambassador Masood Khan said that Pakistan had strong ties with China which were not at the expense of the United States.

“For the stability of international order, we must commit ourselves to the international humanitarian law,” he said

After a brief Question and Answer session, Ambassador Masood Khan thanked Andrew Goodwin and the International Committee of the University Club for inviting him and providing him with the opportunity to share his thoughts.

Afghanistan’s recovery hinges on int’l aid, reinstating women’s rights: UNDP report

NNPS Desk

Fri, 19 Jan 2024, 9:13 AM

UNITED NATIONS, Jan 19 (APP):: Economic recovery in Afghanistan hinges on international support for boosting productivity and reinstating women’s rights, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) said in a new report released Friday.

The report paints a bleak picture of socio-economic conditions since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, with the erosion of women’s rights and a banking system near collapse, identified as major areas of concern.

The Afghan economy has not recovered from the cumulative 27 per cent shrinkage experienced since 2020 and appears to be stabilizing at a very low level of activity.

This is largely due to restrictions on the banking sector, disruptions in trade and commerce, weakened and isolated public institutions and almost no foreign investment and donor support for sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Public institutions, particularly in the economic sector, continue to lose technical expertise and capabilities, including women employees, which is further exacerbating the situation.

Although progress has been made in some areas – including in maintaining stability and security, and controlling opium production and illicit trade – it has not been enough to change the country’s trajectory.

Furthermore, the humanitarian and economic crises, as well as restrictions on women’s rights, have had a severe impact on the female population.

Women not only have limited access to public spaces, they also now consume less food and experience greater income inequality compared to men. The proportion of women working across all sectors has also dropped dramatically, from 11 per cent in 2022 to just six per cent this year.

The report also introduces the Subsistence-Insecurity Index (SII), which utilizes 17 non-monetary indicators across three dimensions to measure deprivation.

Nearly 70 per cent of Afghans are unable to fulfill their basic needs for food, healthcare, employment and other daily requirements, according to the index.

International assistance has been vital in Afghanistan. It has saved millions from starvation, prevented thousands of livelihoods and microenterprises from disappearing, and helped stave off economic collapse.

However, aid flows are declining at a time when an overwhelming majority of the population remains highly vulnerable, Stephen Rodriques, UNDP Resident Representative in the country, said.

“The assistance and efforts require complementary investment to stimulate the recovery of the private sector, financial system, and overall production capacity of the economy,” he said.

The report stressed the need to address challenges in the banking system, including the microfinance sector – crucial for supporting women-led micro and small enterprises, which have experienced a 60 per cent contraction since 2021.

Women’s economic participation must be at the forefront of any efforts aimed at addressing the crises in Afghanistan, UNDP said.

The agency called for integrating local economic development, resilience against shocks and robust private sector-led growth to sustain livelihoods.

It also called for a focus on lasting recovery and prioritizing the needs of all vulnerable Afghans, particularly women and girls.

UN chief calls for ‘maximum restraint’ amid Iran-Pak tensions; urges dialogue

NNPS Desk

Fri, 19 Jan 2024, 12:40 AM

UNITED NATIONS, Jan 18 (APP): UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday reiterated his call for “maximum restraint” after Pakistan’s precision retaliatory strikes in Iran, and called for the security concerns between the two countries to be resolved peacefully.

“The Secretary-General is very concerned about the recent exchanges of fire between Iran and Pakistan, which have reportedly caused casualties on both sides,” his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in response to questions at the regular noon briefing at UN Headquarters in New York.

The UN chief, who is in Switzerland, urged both countries to “exercise maximum restraint to avoid a further escalation of tensions”.

Pakistan launched missile strikes into Iran on Wednesday, after Iran carried out strikes in Pakistan late on Tuesday. A foreign ministry spokesperson said Pakistani strikes had hit “terrorist hideouts” in Iran’s south-eastern Sistan-Baluchestan province.

Iran had claimed it’s missiles had hit bases for the militant group Jaish al-Adl in the border town of Panjgur in Balochistan, prompting strong condemnation from Pakistan and downgrading of diplomatic ties.

“We would like to underscore that all security concerns between the two countries must be addressed by peaceful means, through dialogue and cooperation, in accordance with the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and good neighbourly relations,” the UN spokesperson said.

Asked by APP correspondent whether Guterres was playing any role to de-escalate the tensions between Iran and Pakistan, the spokesperson said that the secretary-general’s good offices are always available to the parties.

“But,” he added, ” I can tell you that he is keeping very much informed of what is going on.”

Jamia Haqqania witnesses ‘Dastaarbandi’ ceremony for 1500 students

Ali Ali

Thu, 18 Jan 2024, 11:42 PM

ISLAMABAD, Jan 18 (APP):In a grand ceremony at Jamia Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania, Dastaarbandi (turban tying) for 1500 students was conducted, marking the completion of degrees in various disciplines, including Dars-e-Nizami, Takhassosaat, Women’s Studies, and memorization of the Holy Quran on Thursday.

The ceremony was attended by individuals from various corners of Pakistan, including Afghanistan and other Islamic countries at Akora Khattak, said a press release.

Maulana Anwar ul Haq, Chancellor of Jamia Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania, expounded the concluding Hadith of Bukhari Sharif.

He expressed the significance of Pakistan’s existence in the name of Islam. “Pakistan, under the banner of Islam, has come into existence,” he emphasized.

Maulana Hamid ul Haq Haqqani, Vice Chancellor of Jamia Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania, asserted the vital role of religious institutions in shaping the identity and Islamic consciousness of Muslims. “The awareness of self-discipline, commitment, freedom, and the defense of our culture and religion is alive through these institutions,” he added.

Haqqani highlighted the crucial role of religious institutions, mosques, and Khanqahs in steering Pakistan away from social decay and moral degradation. He urged those in power to prevent the misuse of the country’s resources for secular purposes, ensuring the welfare of the impoverished population.

Emphasizing the importance of upcoming elections, Haqqani appealed for fair and transparent elections to avert corruption, urging the public to vote for patriotic, Islam-loving, and transparent candidates.

He also expressed concern for the oppressed Palestinian Muslims, criticizing the silence of international human rights advocates. He urged leaders of Muslim countries to unite, emphasizing the close ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and calling for stronger brotherly relations.

The ceremony concluded with a prayer for peace, stability, and prosperity in Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah, led by Sheikh ul Hadith Maulana Muhammad Idris. Numerous scholars, including Maulana Abdul Haleem Derbaba, Maulana Maqfoorullah, Maulana Mufti Saifullah Haqqani, Maulana Rashid ul Haq, Maulana Irfan ul Haq, Maulana Salman ul Haq, Maulana Luqman ul Haq, Maulana Syed Yusuf Shah, Maulana Bilal ul Haq, Maulana Osama Sami, and Maulana Khuzaima Sami, along with other dignitaries, participated in the event.

Petroleum Division condemns malicious campaign against SSGC chairperson

Ali Ali

Thu, 18 Jan 2024, 11:39 PM

ISLAMABAD, Jan 18 (APP):The Petroleum Division on Thursday condemned the malicious campaign circulating on electronic, print, and social media against Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), its chairperson, and its Board of Directors.

SSGC Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Akhter, along with the Board members, had successfully led the organization since her initial appointment in 2019, said a news release.

The Petroleum Division said, “Under her (Dr Shamshad’s) visionary leadership, SSGC has achieved significant milestones in areas such as technology upgradation, improvement of business operations, human resources, policy formulation, discipline, risk management, and a notable reduction of Unaccounted-for Gas (UFG).

The Chairperson and Board members work collaboratively, making decisions based on collective wisdom and consensus.

The Board has made significant contributions to budgetary systems, audits, finances, and UFG strategies. The UFG in Sindh province has decreased from 15% to 7%, reflecting the effective approach of the management and the SSGC Board, especially the Chairperson.

The Board has been actively involved in policy and strategic decision-making, delegating implementation to the management team. Since its formation, the Board has been steadfast in pursuing an agenda of HR and institutional reforms, recognizing their critical role in transforming SSGC.

Efforts are underway to institutionalize high-quality performance assessment and results-based accountability to meet stakeholder expectations. A new Employment Handbook, developed under the oversight of the Board, has been approved and is under implementation.

In recognition of her professional dedication, the government has nominated Dr. Shamshad Akhter for another tenure as Chairperson of the Board of Directors, with elections to be held. The Petroleum Division fully supports and trusts SSGC, its Board, and Dr. Shamshad Akhter in all legal, governance, and financial matters.

Negative reporting, particularly as a public sector listed company, impacts the confidence of private shareholders and dedicated employees of SSGC.

The ministry urges the media to report on such matters with a positive perspective, considering the substantial achievements under Dr. Shamshad Akhter’s leadership and the collective efforts contributing to the growth of the energy sector in Pakistan.

Over 17,800 candidates to contest 2024 elections

Ali Ali

Thu, 18 Jan 2024, 11:36 PM

ISLAMABAD, Jan 18 (APP):Over 17,800 candidates, including 11,785 independents, are flexing their muscles to try their luck in National and provincial assembly seats in the country’s general elections in 2024.

According to the detailed list of candidates unveiled for the approaching general elections scheduled on February 8, 2024, a total of 5,121 candidates are in the fray for 266 National Assembly seats.

Out of these, 6,031 candidates have political party affiliations. In the race for National Assembly seats, 4,807 are males, 312 are females, and two are transgenders. Additionally, a total of 12,123 males, 570 females, and two transgender candidates will compete for provincial assembly seats.

According to data from the ECP, the National Assembly has 1,780 male candidates affiliated with political parties, while 93 females have party tickets, making their combined total 1,873.

Yet, the count of independent candidates for the lower house of parliament is nearly twice as high, comprising 3,027 males, 219 females, and two transgenders, totaling 3,248. In the electoral competition for general seats in the four provincial assemblies, 3,976 males have party affiliation, with females numbering 182, making the overall total 4,158.

In contrast, the count of those independently contesting without party affiliation stands at 8,537. This includes 8,147 male candidates, 388 female candidates, and two transgender candidates participating across the provincial assemblies.

As indicated by Form-33, Punjab sees a collective of 6,710 candidates participating, encompassing both genders, affiliated with parties or contesting independently for the provincial assembly’s general seats. Similarly, in Sindh, the overall count of male and female candidates is 2,878, inclusive of those affiliated with parties and independent contenders.

In the quartet of provinces, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stands out as the sole region where two transgenders are vying for general seats. In addition, there are 1,763 male candidates and 63 females, bringing the total to 1,834. Similarly, in Balochistan, the collective count comprises 1,273 male candidates with affiliations and independents, including 1,233 males and 40 females.

In terms of appeals, the appellate tribunals received a total of 2,373 appeals contesting the acceptance and rejection of nomination papers. Out of these, 178 appeals were against the acceptance of nomination papers, and 2,195 were against rejections. Among the total appeals, the tribunals accepted 1,611 and rejected 762.

PNCA’s 3-day theatre workshop from Jan 23-25

Ali Ali

Thu, 18 Jan 2024, 11:33 PM

ISLAMABAD, Jan 18 (APP):In a stride towards fostering artistic prowess, the Repertory Theatre Department of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) is orchestrating a three-day theatre workshop from January 23 to 25, 2024.

The event, hosted at the PNCA Lecture Hall, aimed to imbue young and theatre enthusiasts with the finest techniques, unravelling the depths of theatrical expression.

Spearheaded by Mohammad Waqar Azeem, the Programme Organiser of PNCA Drama Section, this workshop not only served as an artistic haven but also stood as a testament to PNCA’s commitment to cultivating the cultural tapestry of Pakistan, said a press release issued on Thursday.

This unique congregation is set to draw students, burgeoning artists, and scholars from diverse media realms, totalling around 60 participants, including 25 women. The workshop unfolds as a pivotal initiative to underscore the societal significance of art and, particularly, theatre. Recognizing theatre as a potent medium for unmasking unnatural traditions and challenging obsolete norms, PNCA, as the vanguard of cultural heritage, annually endeavours to uplift the art of theatre.

This enlightening workshop will delve into a spectrum of subjects, offering sessions that span the gamut from the definition of acting to the historical evolution of drama. Participants will be immersed in discussions on the pivotal role of theatre in shaping societal attitudes and the nuanced difference between art and craft.

The rich theatrical heritage of Pakistan will be explored, while the intricate relationship between comedy and vulgarity will be dissected. The comprehensive curriculum also encompasses the interplay of dance with theatre, tools of expression for acting, body language, voice modulation, and the universal rules governing theatre, television, radio, and film acting.

With a focus on nurturing creativity, the workshop will delve into the importance of creativity for both actors and writers. It will traverse through diverse schools of thought, unraveling the intricate technicalities of theatre, including stage lights, sets, background music, costumes, and makeup. Each session promises to be a voyage through the intricacies of the theatrical craft, equipping participants with a profound understanding of the art form.

What sets this workshop apart is its commitment to inclusivity. Open to all, irrespective of social strata, there is no participation fee, allowing artists from various backgrounds to easily engage in this enriching experience. This egalitarian approach aligns with PNCA’s mission to democratize access to cultural education and artistic exploration.

The inaugural ceremony on January 23, 2024, at 11:00 am, promises to be a grand affair. Director General PNCA, Shri Ayub Jamali, will grace the occasion, addressing all participants and setting the stage for a transformative journey into the theatre world.

As the curtains draw to a close on January 25, 2024, the participants will be honoured with certificates, marking the culmination of this theatrical odyssey. For aspiring and novice artists, this theatre workshop by PNCA is nothing short of a golden opportunity to hone their skills and immerse themselves in the captivating world of theatre.