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Pakistan reviving Belt and Road Initiative projects: Ahsan Iqbal

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NNPS Desk
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ahsan iqbal

ISLAMABAD, May 28 (APP): Federal minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal said here on Tuesday that the incumbent government was hopeful to inject some fresh momentum into projects that fall under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, as it tries to boost the country’s troubled economy.

The government is looking forward to joint ventures for renewable energy projects, agriculture collaboration and possibly enticing some Chinese companies to relocate to Pakistan, Ahsan Iqbal, who also co-heads the committee responsible for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor said in an interview with Bloomberg.
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“Yeah, I’m very hopeful because I was there in China recently and I had meetings with their senior leadership…So I see great interest on the Chinese side to revive the momentum for CPEC and also to take it into the second phase,” he said

Pakistan was seen as a flagship destination for BRI projects, with CPEC — which includes a port in the southern town of Gwadar and new power plants — the crown jewel. The progress on new projects stalled in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and amid Pakistan’s on-going economic difficulties that have required the International Monetary Fund’s intervention.

According to Bloomberg report, projects worth about $25 billion came online in the first phase, including power plants that ended the nation’s chronic power deficit. A Pakistani committee approved a long-delayed railway upgrade project last week.

The project will be done in two phases “so there is not a big burden on Pakistan,” said Iqbal. The railway, in its first phase will run from Karachi, the southern coast city, to Multan, a little over halfway to the capital, Islamabad.

The government has also finished some key BRI projects that were pending for years: a water-supply project in Gwadar, dredging work at the port and an electricity transmission line from Iran.

“So all these things really help China see that the new government is again serious and it restored their confidence that now Pakistan is, you know, serious about CPEC initiatives,” said Iqbal.

To mark the tenth anniversary of CPEC last year, China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng unveiled five new corridors including one focused on growth to boost economic activity in Pakistan.

One change in the second phase would likely involve Islamabad taking a step back while urging the private sector to forge partnerships with Chinese firms.

The other big focus, albeit a long-shot prospect, is to try and attract Chinese firms thinking of relocating from China amid rising labor costs and heightening geopolitical tensions.

“That would be a success because at the moment more than 80 million jobs are being relocated from China to other countries because of the high level cost in China,” said Iqbal. “They have gone to Vietnam and you know, Laos and Cambodia. There is now overcrowding there. So they are certainly looking for new places,” he added.

Youm-e-Takbeer day observed in Larkana press club

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NNPS Desk
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LARKANA, May 28 (APP): Larkana Press Club celebrated Youm-e-Takbeer day in a grand manner here on Tuesday.

The ceremony was attended by Larkana Press Club President Murtaza Kalhoro, Vice President Dr. Badr Shaikh, Treasurer Abdul Qadir Jagirani, Munir Ahmad Soomro, Ayaz Sario, Abdul Khaliq Mughiri, Yasin Abro, Ali Gramani, Javed Solangi, Nader Mairi, Shah Muhammad Lashari, Abdul Hafeez Mangi, Syed Safir Shah, Abdul Qadir Gopang, Saeed Rahman and other journalists.

Addressing on this occasion, President of Larkana Press Club Murtaza Kalhoro and other journalists paid tributes to Quaid-e- Awam and the founder of People’s Party and former Prime Minister of the country, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and recalled history of Pakistan’s Nuclear programme.

They said that on May 28, 1998, the former Prime Minister of the country, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, along with the Pakistan Army, carried out five nuclear explosions in Chagai area of Balochistan and sent a strong message to the world that now Pakistan has become a nuclear power.

They further said that the institutions of the country including Pakistan Army are always ready to defend the country, while this country and its nuclear assets are in safe hands and we assure our officials that country’s people are with our Pakistan army.

KP Governor congratulates Yousaf Raza Gillani on his son victory in Multan by-election

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Amjad Shafique
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PESHAWAR, May 28 (APP):Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi met with Acting President of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani at his residence in Islamabad and congratulated him on his son Ali Qasim Gillani victory in Multan by-election.
The Governor presented flowers bouquet to Yousaf Raza Gillani and expressed best wishes to him. Faisal Karim Kundi said that Ali Qasim Gillani success in NA-148 Multan reflected people’s confidence. The acting President thanked the Governor KP for congratulation and best wishes.
Matters pertaining to political, economic and law and order situation in the country including Khyber Pakthunkhwa also came under discussion.

Acting President Gilani felicitates Nawaz Sharif on election as PML-N president

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NNPS Desk
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Nawaz Sharif's

ISLAMABAD, May 28 (APP): Acting President Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Tuesday congratulated Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on his unopposed election as the president of the Pakistan Muslim League-N.

The acting president, in a statement, reiterated to work with Muhammad Nawaz Sharif to promote democracy in the country.

Expressing good wishes for him, the acting president said that Nawaz Sharif rendered numerous services for strengthening the democracy in the country.

BTTN organizes webinar on Pakistan’s Nuclear Journey, deterrence to sustainable development

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Amjad Shafique
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QUETTA, May 28 (APP):To commemorate 26th Anniversary of Pakistan’s successful Nuclear Tests, Balochistan Think Tank Network (BTTN) organized a webinar on “Pakistan’s Nuclear Journey: Deterrence to Sustainable Development” on Tuesday.
The webinar was moderated by Research Officer Ms Summra Hamid.
While discussing the Emerging Challenges to Strategic Stability in South Asia, Dr Atia Ali Kazmi, Director Research CISS Islamabad, explained that the shifting regional circumstances have necessitated a robust deterrence capability for Pakistan’s national security, emphasizing peaceful development and self-defense.
Emerging challenges to strategic stability in South Asia are exacerbated by India’s rapid development of first strike capability and its role in Asia pacific strategy which destabilizes the region.
This arms race and India’s strategic partnerships heighten instability and pose significant threats to regional equilibrium. She pressed upon the fact that India’s growing sense of invulnerability could cause undesirable consequences to regional stability. She concluded by saying that all nine nuclear armed states must know the fact there is no victory in fighting a nuclear war thereby one must not fight one.
Head of BTTN, Brig Agha Ahmad Gul (R) paid rich tribute to all who contributed in Pakistan’s going nuclear and politico-military leadership during his addressing.
He also emphasized the crucial role of Pakistan’s development of nuclear weapons in establishing a strong deterrence, ensuring national security.
Brig Gul highlighted that on 28th May 1998, the day Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests, all threats from adversary India dissipated, solidifying the nation’s defense capabilities.
He further noted that peaceful applications, such as advancements in nuclear energy, are significant byproducts of Pakistan’s nuclear program, contributing to the nation’s progress and stability.
It is evident to never attack a nuclear state, as military response will be catastrophic and second, never to wage a war with another nuclear power. As none could win it and both states would end up with mutually assured destruction. Yet, Pakistan’s resolve and capability of prompt response remains intact.
Mr Sher Ali Kakar, Research Officer BTTN, shed light on the essence of Pakistan’s National Security and its Deterrence. He explained the concept of national security and survivability while emphasizing the terrible consequences of military invasions and attacks that have violated the sovereignty of many states. Whereas, countries with nuclear weapons capability, overt or covert, have successfully deterred security threats and ensured their national survival. The 1965 and the 1971 wars heightened Pakistan`s sense of vulnerability which grew further when India carried out its first nuclear test. These events created far-reaching strategic implications for Pakistan. The most important lesson for Pakistan was that reliance on external support for the security of the country through alliances, particularly relying on the US could not be trusted in the future and Pakistan had to ensure its security through its own capabilities, he said.
Dr Rubina Waseem, Assistant Professor CIPS, NUST, talked about Pakistan’s Confident Nuclear Security Regime: Measures and Regulations.
She elaborated that Pakistan has made significant strides in meeting international nuclear safety and security standards, as evidenced by its improved ranking in the SIPRI’s Nuclear Threat Initiative’s 2023 index, where it ranked 19 out of 22 countries. The country has developed a robust framework, including legislative measures, regulatory body and relevant institutions to implement rules and regulations drawn by the legislature.
She mentioned the prominent creations like the National Command Authority (NCA) and Strategic Plans Division (SPD) which stands as pillars to ensure Pakistan’s nuclear safety and security frameworks.
Additionally, Pakistan’s commitment to international norms is reflected in its participation in various international agreements and its collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to ensure high standards of nuclear safety and security, he said.
Dr Ansar Parvez, Former Chairman PAEC and Advisor (Nuclear Power) National Command Authority, apprised the session about Peaceful Applications of Nuclear Technology for Energy and Economy.
Dr Parvez highlighted the critical role of nuclear energy as a reliable base-load electricity option, emphasizing its environmental benefits.
He pointed out that nuclear power operations are environmentally friendly, with spent fuel being produced in small volumes. Additionally, he noted that nuclear fuel is not prone to frequent price fluctuations, making it a stable energy source.
While acknowledging the high capital cost, Dr Parvez argued that the low fuel cost makes nuclear power economically competitive. He emphasized on how nuclear technology is one effectively working towards achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
At the end, Brig Gul concluded the session with extending his gratitude to the speakers and the moderator.

PHA organizes rally to celebrate ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’

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NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, May 28 (APP): Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Rawalpindi here on Tuesday organized a rally in connection with ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’.
The rally was led by Director General (DG) PHA, Ahmed Hasan Ranjha. PHA staff, students and citizens belonging to different walks of life participated in the rally which started from PHA Head Office and concluded at Liaquat Bagh, Murree Road.
The DG on the occasion said that Pakistan became a nuclear power on May 28, 1998, and Pakistan’s prestige and integrity at the global level increased and Pakistan’s defense was made impregnable.
Ahmad Hasan Ranjha said that ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ was celebrated today on the occasion of its 26th anniversary of Pakistan’s nuclear tests with the determination to show unity and solidarity in every field of life to protect the territorial integrity, freedom and sovereignty of Pakistan.
It was May 28, 1998 that led to the acquisition of invincible defense capabilities for Pakistan and ensured regional stability through the balance of power, he added.
Ahmad Hasan Ranjha further said that for the people of Pakistan, ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ is also a day to renew the pledge that the security of the beloved country would never be compromised.
“We pledge on this day that the way Pakistan’s defense was made impregnable on May 28, 1998, we will all work together day and night to ensure the economic security of the country,” he added.
Special prayers were also offered for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan, security and stability of the country. The participants carrying national flags and banners also raised slogans ‘Allahu Akbar and Pakistan Zindabad.’

Rwp district admin organizes rally to celebrate ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’

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Amjad Shafique
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KU marks Youm-e-Takbir by remembering late A. Q. Khan
RAWALPINDI, May 28 (APP):Rawalpindi District Administration here on Tuesday organized a rally to celebrate ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ and pay rich tributes to all those who made Pakistan an atomic power.
The rally was led by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rawalpindi, Hasan Waqar Cheema.
 A large number of people belonging to different walks of life including students, district administration officers, and officials, carrying national flags, banners inscribed with ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ slogans, and nuclear blasts, participated in the rally to celebrate the day with immense zeal and enthusiasm.
The participants of the rally raised the slogans ‘Takbeer and Pakistan Zindabad’.
On May 28, a nuclear explosion made the country’s defense system impregnable, the DC said.
Hasan Waqar Cheema addressing the participants said, “Today we salute the heroes who played an important role in making Pakistan a nuclear power.”
The nation is proud of its heroes who have rendered their services for the security of the country, the DC said adding, that no sacrifice would be spared for the security and defense of the nation.
Another rally was held on the occasion of ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ from the main city area. The participants of the rally were carrying national flags.
They also raised slogans in support of the Pakistan Army.
People belonging to different walks of life attended the rally. The participants said that it was a day of great joy and happiness for them.
The citizens on the occasion said that the explosion of nuclear weapons by Pakistan had created a balance of nuclear power in the region.
To celebrate May 28 in memory of the historic nuclear tests, Pakistan celebrates this day as ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ every year to pay rich tributes to all those who made Pakistan an atomic power.
Like other parts of the country, ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ is also being celebrated in the Rawalpindi division with great national enthusiasm.
The day dawned with special prayers in mosques for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan, independence of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and eternal peace of all the martyrs of Pakistan.
Rich tributes were paid to the political leadership including former Prime Ministers Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, scientists and officials of all the relevant organizations for making Pakistan an atomic power by the speakers in the rallies and debate competitions.
A local PML-N leader, Ch Tayyab said that Pakistan’s defense was made invincible on May 28, 1998.
He said it was a day to pledge to work tirelessly for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan and stand shoulder to shoulder with the brave security forces of Pakistan to destroy nefarious designs of the inimical forces.

KMU celebrates Youm-e-Takbeer in all campuses

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Amjad Shafique
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PESHAWAR, May 28 (APP):Khyber Medical University (KMU) on Tuesday celebrated Youm-e-Takbeer commemorating Pakistan’s historic nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998.
Led by VC KMU Meritorious Professor Dr. Zia Ul Haq, Dean BMS Prof Dr.Rubina Nazli,  Professor Dr. Inayat Shah, Director IBMS KMU, Nasir Salim Arb Director Sports and Youth Affairs, and Tahir Ayub Director Administration, the event drew enthusiastic participation from faculty, administrative staff, and students across the main campus and constituent Institutes.
VC KMU Meritorious Professor Dr. Zia ul Haq, speaking on this momentous occasion, exudes a profound sense of unity and honor, resonating with our collective values and traditions.
Together, we commemorate this day, acknowledging its historical importance, and nurturing a spirit of reverence, resilience, and safeguarding within our nation.
The occasion provided a platform for profound reflections on international relations, peace, and Pakistan’s strategic significance in the global arena. Dr. Inayat Shah eloquently articulated the country’s commitment to peace and pursuit of harmony amidst its natural beauty characterized by four distinct seasons.
A variety of engaging activities, including walks, debate speeches, and seminars, were meticulously organized across all campuses. These initiatives aimed to honor the historical significance of Youm-e-Takbeer while fostering a deeper understanding of its implications for national security and resilience.
The celebrations resonated with spirited exchanges and impassioned discussions, underscoring KMU’s unwavering commitment to instill national pride and civic responsibility among its student community.
Speakers at the seminars highlighted the strategic importance of nuclear capabilities, emphasizing the critical role of science and technology in safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty.
As echoes of Youm-e-Takbeer reverberated throughout the university, KMU reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing future generations imbued with unity, patriotism, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Through such initiatives, the university remains steadfast in ensuring that the legacy of this historic day continues to inspire and shape Pakistan’s journey towards a brighter and more secure future.

Shazia Marri pays tribute to founders of Pakistan’s Nuclear program

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NNPS Desk
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Shazia Marri

KARACHI, May 28 (APP): Pakistan Peoples Party’s central spokesperson, Shazia Marri, Tuesday, paid glowing tribute to founders of Pakistan’s nuclear program that made country’s defense impregnable.
Shazia Marri, in her message on Youm-e-Takbeer, saluted Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and said that May 28 will always remind us of their services for national defense.
She said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was founder of Pakistan’s nuclear program while Shaheed Benazir Bhutto laid foundation of country’s missile program that become a strong weapon of national defense.
Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto Shaheed did not accept any international pressure against the programs for strengthening the defense of the homeland, Shazia Marri said adding that the nation will never forget courage and valour of the leadership of Pakistan.

PBF says UAE $10 bln pledge an irrefutable proof of foreign investors confidence

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Amjad Shafique
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ISLAMABAD, May 28 (APP):President, Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) Khawaja Mehboob ur Rehman lauded the announcement from United Arab Emirates (UAE) of a $10 billion investment for Pakistan in the promising economic sectors.
PBF President while talking to APP on Tuesday said that we commended the UAE’s development journey and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its friendship with the UAE and expanding cooperation, especially in the economic, commercial, and investment sectors.
“He said this huge investment is an irrefutable proof of foreign investors’ confidence in government’s efforts to revamp the economy”.
UAE is home to 1.8 million Pakistanis who are contributing towards development, prosperity and economic growth of the two brotherly countries.
In this regard PBF President suggested that there is a further need to increase cooperation between the two countries in the fields of aviation and tourism to increase people to people contact.
The PBF also stated that in 2022, the UAE exported $5.8 billion worth of goods to Pakistan. The main products exported from the UAE to Pakistan were Crude Petroleum ($2.29 billion), Refined Petroleum ($1.3 billion), and Propylene Polymers ($212 million).
Similarly Pakistan exported in 2022 $2.58 billion worth of goods to the UAE. The top Pakistani exports were Refined Petroleum ($1.07 billion), Rice ($235 million), and Bovine Meat ($165 million). Pakistan’s exports to the UAE have grown at an annualized rate of 4.5 percent over the last 19 years, increasing from $1.12 billion in 2003 to $2.58 billion in 2022.
President, Pakistan Business Forum also invited Chairman of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, Adullah Mohammed Almazrui and CEO Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi to visit Pakistan soon along with their delegation to explore more bilateral trade avenues.
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