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Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar presides over a meeting to review overall arrangements for the February 8 General Election at CM House

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Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar presides over a meeting to review overall arrangements for the February 8 General Election at CM House
APP27-250124 KARACHI: January 25 - Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar presides over a meeting to review overall arrangements for the February 8 General Election at CM House. APP/TZD
Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar presides over a meeting to review overall arrangements for the February 8 General Election at CM House
APP27-250124
KARACHI: January 25 –
Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar presides over a meeting to review overall arrangements for the February 8 General Election at CM House
APP28-250124
KARACHI: January 25 – Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar addresses a press conference at CM House. APP/TZD
Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar presides over a meeting to review overall arrangements for the February 8 General Election at CM House
APP29-250124
KARACHI: January 25 – Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar addresses a press conference at CM House. APP/TZD

Speakers underscore India’s recognition as epicentre of disinformation in 2024

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LAHORE, Jan 25 (APP): The speakers at a seminar on Thursday emphasised the need for a comprehensive understanding of the global information landscape and its implications and highlighted that India had been identified as the epicentre of disinformation in 2024.

The Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, hosted a seminar titled ‘Mastering Narratives: Navigating Disinformation and Shaping Perceptions for Pakistan’s Future’.

The event discussed the challenges that Pakistan faces in the context of 5th Generation Warfare, which is characterised by the strategic use of deception and disinformation, a news release said.

The seminar commenced with opening remarks by Nida Shahid, Senior Researcher at CASS, Lahore. This was followed by a keynote address by Amir Jahangir, Founder and CEO of Mishal Pakistan, who spoke about disinformation and its implications in the media age.

Dr Zeeshan Zaigham, an Assistant Professor at Beaconhouse National University, shed light on the hostile narratives and perception-building tactics being used against Pakistan.

Amber Shamsi, Director of the Centre for Excellence in Journalism, provided valuable insights for countering disinformation and guarding narratives.

In his concluding remarks, CASS President Air Marshal (R) Asim Suleiman acknowledged the dangers posed by disinformation and false narratives to Pakistan’s international image and security.

He emphasised the crucial role of media literacy, digital resilience and ethical journalism in countering disinformation.

He mentioned the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Risks Report, which positions AI-generated misinformation and disinformation as the second-highest global risk at a staggering 53 percent, and stressed the need for countermeasures. In the end, he hoped for Pakistan to not only endure but triumph in the 5th Generation War.

The seminar highlighted various crucial points. It was also emphasised that in the technologically-driven era, nations that empower their citizens with a robust digital presence wield the transformative power to influence the global landscape. Moreover, the need for Pakistan to comprehensively reassess its national security priorities in light of identified challenges was stressed.

The emphasis was on creating a tailored strategy, leveraging Pakistan’s strengths while effectively addressing vulnerabilities posed by disinformation tactics by adversaries.

The seminar concluded with a unanimous call for proactive policy decisions in the face of the changing digital landscape. “This merits media mastery and adaptability as Pakistan charts its course in this challenging era,” the news release said.

Senator Kamil Ali Agha, Chairman Senate Functional Committee on Government Assurances presiding over a meeting of the committee at Parliament House

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Senator Kamil Ali Agha, Chairman Senate Functional Committee on Government Assurances presiding over a meeting of the committee at Parliament House
APP26-250124 ISLAMABAD: January 25 - Senator Kamil Ali Agha, Chairman Senate Functional Committee on Government Assurances presiding over a meeting of the committee at Parliament House. APP/TZD
Senator Kamil Ali Agha, Chairman Senate Functional Committee on Government Assurances presiding over a meeting of the committee at Parliament House
APP26-250124
ISLAMABAD: January 25 

SC allows Sanaullah Mastikhail to contest elections

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Supreme Court

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed Sanaullah Mastikhail, an independent candidate from NA-91 Bhakkar, to contest general elections and instructed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to include his name in ballot papers.

The court set aside the verdict of Lahore High Court for rejecting the nomination papers of the petitioner and restored the decision of election tribunal dated January 5.

The top court’s bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa heard the appeal of Mastikhail against the rejection of his nomination papers.

During the course of proceedings, the complainant’s lawyer adopted the stance that Mastikhail was an absconder.

Asking about the nature of crime committed by the petitioner, the CJP observed that the court would allow him to contest election if he was not involved in any heinous crime.

Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar noted that the petitioner was no more absconder as he had been granted bail.

Justice Musarrat Hilali remarked that Sanaullah Mastikhail was accused of mere burning tyres.

The CJP observed that the LHC announced the verdict in same day after admitting the complaint against the petitioner. It was discrimination to oust someone from electoral process, he remarked.

To a query, an ECP official said that ballot papers were reading for printing.

The court, subsequently, accepted the appeal of Sanaullah Mastikhail and allowed him to participate in the polls on February 8.

Envoys of Portugal, Pakistan review bilateral ties

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BRUSSELS, Jan 25 (APP): Ambassador of Pakistan to Brussels Amna Baloch met with Permanent Representative of Portugal to the European Union
Pedro Lourtie here on Thursday and discussed matters of mutual interest.

In a post on X, the Pakistani ambassador said, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss global and regional issues of importance, and to reiterate deepening of cooperation between Pakistan and Portugal.

Dr Nadeem bans sugary products in health ministry

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Dr Nadeem Jan

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Caretaker Federal Minister for Health Dr. Nadeem Jan on Thursday announced to ban serving of sugary products in his ministry, asking other ministries to follow this after the advisory to be issued soon.

He was addressing a seminar jointly organized by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, PANAH and other civil society organizations to address the issues of excessive use of sugary drinks and their fatal impact on human health.

He said,”We committed to strengthen all initiatives to address health hazards associated with sweetened beverages.”

The minister said that our commitment to addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) was deeply embedded in our National Health Vision, which led to the development of the NCDs Action Framework. Aligned with global targets, this framework outlines our strategic actions to tackle current challenges.

He said recognizing the impact of sweetened beverages on public health, the ministry was working diligently to regulate trans fatty acids to no more than two percent of the total fats in all foods.

Dr. Nadeem Jan added that through collaboration with the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority, we aim to enforce front-of-pack nutrition labeling and warning signs on foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.

He said that the ministry’s partnership with the Federal Board of Revenue involves increasing excise taxes on ultra-processed foods, particularly sugary drinks.

He added this fiscal measure was a vital step to discourage the consumption of unhealthy products and promote better dietary choices.

The minister said, “We are committed to ensuring a healthy diet in public procurements and official meetings, setting an example for the entire nation.”

Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH), President, Major General (Retd) Masud ur Rehman Kiani said that focus should be on preventive health which was the most effective way to combat NCDs.

He said that unhealthy diet was among the major risk factors to many NCDs like heart diseases, diabetes, stroke, liver and kidney diseases.

He said that sweet drinks and ultra-processed foods are among the major unhealthy diets that people were consuming excessively.

He said that policies to reduce the consumption of these unhealthy foods will improve public health significantly.
“Increasing tax on sugar sweetened beverages is an evidence based policy to reduce its consumption and related chronic diseases.”

He said that there was a strong public support for this policy change as per opinion poll conducted by Pakistan Health Research Council in 2021.

“However, it was recommended to earmark the collected revenue, fully or partially to public health and nutrition programs for an increased effectiveness of the policy, “said by Munawar Hussain, consultant at Global Health Advocacy Incubator.

“Sugary drinks are the largest source of sugar intake in our diet. Failing prompt and decisive action, the number of people living with diabetes will surge to 62 million by the year 2045.”

“These drinks not only pose a serious threat to public health but also to economy of the country,” Col (Rtd) Dr. Shakeel Mirza, a leading health expert said.

Ms. Afshan Tehsin Bajwah, former Chairperson at National Commission on the Rights of Child, appreciated the Ministry of Health and PANAH for organizing this important dialogue and working together for public welfare.

General Secretary, PANAH, Sanaullah Ghumman said that beverage industry uses several tactics to mislead policy makers to derail the public health agenda.

He said, “We need to carefully monitor and keep an eye on such tactics. We must prioritize public health and help save precious lives of people.”

ECP issues Code of Conduct for security personnel deployed on election duty

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ECP

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Thursday issued a Code of Conduct for the personnel of Armed Forces and Civil Armed Forces deployed for election duty, ensuring foolproof security during the general elections-2024.

The ECP, in a notification, said the security personnel deputed for the general elections, would carry out their duties in accordance with the role defined in Article 245 of the Constitution of Pakistan.

“They must adhere to the law and operate within the mandate assigned to assist the Election Commission of Pakistan in conducting the elections,” it added.

The ECP said the primary duty of the forces was to provide a secure environment, facilitating easy and safe access for voters to polling stations.

“The police will act as the first-tier responders, followed by the Civil Armed Forces and Armed Forces as the second and third-tier responders, respectively. These forces will be deployed outside selected, highly sensitive polling stations.

“Their responsibilities include providing security for printing presses during the printing of ballot papers, overseeing the transportation of ballot papers from printing presses to the offices of District Returning Officers, and ensuring security during the transportation of election materials from Returning Officers’ offices to polling stations and back after polling and counting.

“The forces will carry out their functions under Article 220 and 245 of the Constitution of Pakistan, Section 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorist Act (ATA), 1997 (as amended), and Section 5 read with Section 193 of the Election Act, 2017 (XXXIII of 2017).

“Every officer and junior commissioned officer of the Armed Forces of Pakistan and Civil Armed Forces will exercise powers delegated to them through Notification No. F.21 (1)12023-Elec-l, dated 25th January 2024, issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan.

“All personnel are expected to facilitate the provision of a secure environment, enabling District Returning Officers (DROs), Returning Officers (ROs), Presiding Officers (POs), and Polling Staff to accomplish their tasks impartially.

“Throughout the election process, and particularly during the voting process, personnel must remain impartial and neutral, refraining from favoring or opposing any political party or candidate. When dealing with voters and election staff, they are required to demonstrate politeness, display impeccable behaviour, and act justly in accordance with the law.

“The personnel are responsible for identifying suspicious voters for frisking/checking by police personnel before entering the premises of the polling station, ensuring that no person brings any weapon/explosive or undesirable item inside. Outside the selected most sensitive polling stations, the focus should exclusively be on ensuring a secure environment.

“While performing their duties, the personnel must report to the Presiding Officer and their Chain of Command regarding any irregularity/issue/malpractice that could potentially create a law and order/security situation. If the Presiding Officer does not act to prevent reported irregularities, the security staff must immediately inform the concerned Returning Officer.”

The Code of Conduct emphasized adherence to all relevant laws, continuous efforts to gain the general public’s trust, ensuring a safe environment, and maintaining law and order during the election process. DROs/ROs can visit polling stations at any time, and accredited observers and media persons are allowed entry.

“The personnel must not disallow any eligible voter from entering the polling station, except those found in possession of weapons/explosives or causing disturbance, incitement to violence, or actions prejudicial to national safety/interests.

“They should not assume the duties of polling staff, take custody of any election material, engage in arguments/altercations, or interfere in the functions of Presiding Officer, Assistant Presiding Officer, or Polling Officer.

“In case of apparent irregularities outside a polling station, personnel should not respond independently but bring the matter to the attention of the Presiding Officer and take necessary directions. If irregularities persist, they must inform their Officer In-Charge immediately to enable necessary legal action. Personnel are not allowed to interfere in the counting process and should perform their duties outside the polling station in a peaceful manner.”

PAECO seeks to boost parliamentary cooperation for shared regional peace, progress: Hashmi

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Special Secretary of National Assembly Syed Shamoon Hashmi Thursday said that the Parliamentary Assembly of Economic Cooperation Organization (PAECO) sought to boost parliamentary cooperation for increased economic collaboration, aiming to achieve shared peace, progress and prosperity in the region.

Addressing the concluding ceremony of the two-day workshop for delegates of PAECO member parliaments titled “Parliamentary Services for Strengthening Development”, he said that since the establishment of the women’s parliamentary caucus, Pakistan’s Parliament had passed more laws related to women and children than it had done previously.

While sharing his lifelong experiences of parliamentary diplomacy with participants of the workshop, Hashmi said Pakistan delved deep into the world of parliamentary forums and friendship groups, highlighting how their active role powerfully enhance regional inclusiveness and outreach.

The platforms, he added, “provide legislators members with pertinent information and knowledge through open and thorough discussions, enabling them to adopt a results-oriented approach to issues and subsequently enact relevant laws”.

He also deliberated upon the significance of parliamentary friendship groups and parliamentary caucuses to highlight the significance of parliamentary diplomacy.

The participants were awarded certificates of appreciation for their valuable participation and contribution in the workshop.

The participants were also briefed about the significance, role and functions of Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS) by its Executive Director Muhammad Anwar.

Kazakh envoy calls on Commerce Minister

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan Yerzhan Kistafin on Thursday met Caretaker Federal Minister for Commerce, Industries, Investments and Interior Dr Gohar Ejaz and discussed matters pertaining to strengthening bilateral economic ties and trade initiatives.

The meeting, aimed at improving regional connectivity and enhancing bilateral trade, highlighted the crucial role of trade and logistics in the relationship between the two countries, a news release said.

The minister emphasized the inseparable link between trade and transport, and said : “There is no trade without transport.”
He underscored the importance of robust logistics in fostering trade relationships and facilitating the movement of goods between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.

Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin conveyed Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening economic ties and announced that Kazakhstan’s Trade Minister was looking forward to visit Pakistan in February. “The visit aims to explore opportunities for collaboration and further enhance bilateral trade between the two nations”, he added.

To promote cultural exchange and economic collaboration, he announced plans for a fashion show in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
He extended a warm invitation to the Pakistani fashion industry to showcase their work at the event, fostering greater ties between the fashion communities of both countries.

The Ambassador further proposed the organization of a single-country exhibition in March, providing a platform to showcase Pakistan’s diverse range of products. This exhibition will serve as an opportunity to highlight the rich cultural and economic contributions of Pakistan to the Kazakhstani audience.

He also shared positive developments, stating that direct flights from Kazakhstan to Pakistan would resume after the month of Ramadan. Additionally, he announced plans for the introduction of E-visas for Pakistani business persons, streamlining the visa application process and facilitating smoother business interactions between the two nations.

The discussions also covered the deliberation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two countries regarding digital marketing and E-commerce. Both sides acknowledged the transformative impact of digital technologies on modern trade and expressed the need to collaborate in this rapidly evolving landscape.

India entirely responsible for Galwan Valley incident: Chinese Defense Ministry

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BEIJING, Jan 25 (APP): A Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesperson Thursday held India entirely responsible for Galwan Valley standoff saying the incident happened only because the Indian side violated bilateral consensus and made unilateral provocations.

Firstly, the Galwan Valley lies on the Chinese side of the western sector along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The relevant incident happened only because the Indian side violated bilateral consensus and made unilateral provocations.
Therefore, the responsibility lies entirely with the Indian side, Senior Col. Wu Qian said at a regular press conference.

Spokesperson Wu made the remarks when asked to comment on previous statement of India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who said that China violated the bilateral consensus in 2020 and assembled large amount of military forces along the LAC, thus triggering the conflict in the Galwan Valley. And he claimed to have made it clear to the Chinese side that unless a solution is found at the border, India-China relations cannot move on normally.

The spokesperson said that over the past three years, China and India had maintained communication and coordination through military and diplomatic channels.

Up till now, the two militaries have had 20 rounds of Corps Commander Level Meetings, and agreed to disengage at four
points, namely the Galwan Valley, the Pangong Lake, Hot Springs, and Jianan Daban, contributing to the de-escalation of tensions along the border, he added.

“It is unwise and inappropriate for the Indian side to link the boundary issue with the overall relations. This approach is against the shared interests of the two countries,” he stressed.

“We hope the Indian side can work with the Chinese side towards the same goal, enhance strategic mutual trust, properly handle differences, and safeguard peace and tranquility in the border areas.” As for the next Corps Commander Level
Meeting, the spokesperson said that they will release information in due course.
APP/asg