Monday, December 15, 2025
Home Blog Page 9477

IRSA releases 279,900 cusecs water

By
Ali Ali
-
0
ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP):Indus River System Authority (IRSA) Friday released 279,900 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 321,800 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1468.67 feet and was 70.67 feet higher than its dead level of 1,398 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 132,600 cusecs and 120,000 cusecs respectively.
The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1188.35 feet, which was 138.35 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 54,300 cusecs and 25,000 cusecs respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa , Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 193,900, 168,900, 137,000 and 43,100 cusecs respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 85,000 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 23,500 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.

Pakistani Pilgrims advised to take extra heats-related cautions during Hajj

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP): Director General & Head of Pakistan Hajj Mission Abdul Wahab Soomro, Friday advised Pakistani pilgrims to take all necessary precautions against heatstroke during the Hajj days and reassured that Pakistani pilgrims would be provided additional facilities upgraded services during Hajj 2024 as compared to previous years.

In an exclusive interview with PTV news channel, he said as this year’s Hajj season occurs during the summer, pilgrims can expect to deal with the high summer temperatures and humidity, therefore, Hujjaj are urged to take some necessary health precautions.

To combat the challenges of extreme heat during the hot season, it is important for pilgrims to maintain proper hydration by drinking plenty of water, he said, adding, it is advisable to avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and sugary drinks as they contribute to dehydration.

Wearing suitable attire, such as loose-fitting, lightweight, and preferably light-colored clothing enables the body to breathe and stay cool. Pilgrims should not forget to protect their head and face with a hat or an umbrella and reapply sunscreen frequently, he mentioned.

The ‘Pak Hajj App,’ through which online monitoring of all Hajj-related activities is being performed where we are receiving an overwhelming response in a short span of time, with over 70,000 active intending Pakistani Hajj pilgrims registered so far.

He said that the government has timely acquired buildings in Makkah and Madina Munawwarah to facilitate the pilgrims, adding, all Pakistani pilgrims under government hajj scheme were being provided residence at “Markazaiya” in Madina.

He said latest model air condition transport facilities have been arranged for travelling of pilgrims in Makkah Mukaramah, adding, with the direction of Saudi government we are landed 50% pilgrims in Madina in initial stage and 50% of hujjaj are being landing to Makkah till June 9.

Replying a question, Director Hajj Mission said that round the clock best medical facilities are available for Pilgrims, adding, more than 18 ambulances are facilitating them in two shifts.

He said that every type of medicines are being provided to Pilgrims, adding, more than 1400 volunteering including medical staff to help pilgrims to assist them for their health issues and any other requirements.

He said the training programs were also conducted for hujjaj, adding, this time, we are also providing the train facility to all those pilgrims who travel to Saudi Arabia on the government scheme in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah.

DG added that this year’s hajj arrangements are far better than previous years and government has provided ‘free of cost mobile SIMs with roaming internet packages’ to Pakistani pilgrims performing Hajj in 2024.

Moreover, abayas having a Pakistani flag on the backside and 13 Kg suitcases are also be given to all Pilgrims, he added.

Bilawal grieves over loss of lives in gas cylinder explosion in Hyderabad

By
NNPS Desk
-
0
Bilawal-Bhutto-Zardari

KARACHI, May 31 (APP): The PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed his grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives in gas cylinder explosion in Hyderabad.
He said, ‘I am saddened to hear the news of the loss of precious lives including children in the accident.’
Bilawal said, ‘I am sure that no effort will be spared for the better treatment of the injured.’
He said that the concerned authorities should investigate the matter, if the incident indicated any criminal negligence then those responsible should be brought to justice.
He said that effective steps should be taken to prevent such accidents in the future.
The PPP Chairman expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of those, who burnt.

Pakistani food companies showcase diverse range of products at exhibition in Shanghai

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

BEIJING, May 31 (APP): Nine leading Pakistani companies, specializing in logistics, rice mills, frozen meals, and a wide array of fruits, juices, pink salt products, candies, snacks, and dried fruits, had made a strong presence at the imported grocery section of the 2024 Salon International De L’Alimentation (SIAL) in Shanghai.

The exhibition, running from May 28 to 30, attracted over 5,000 exhibitors from 75 countries and regions, showcasing more than 350,000 products, representing the latest, innovative and unique food and beverage products from around the world, China Economic Net (CEN) reported on Friday.

SIAL Shanghai has become a pivotal platform for Pakistani food exporters to showcase their products to a global audience. The Pakistani contingent’s participation highlighted the country’s rich agricultural heritage and growing capabilities in food processing and logistics. With a focus on quality and variety, the Pakistani exhibitors aimed to capture the attention of buyers from China and other participating countries.

One of the standout companies was the National Logistics Corporation represented by Director Plans Muhammad Yousaf.

He emphasized the company’s capabilities in handling international shipments, especially in the food and beverage industry. “We are here to introduce our logistics services to potential customers and partners, he said. “With our robust network, we can ensure efficient and timely delivery of products from Pakistan to China and beyond.”

In the rice mill sector, Pakistani companies showcased their high-quality rice varieties including broken rice, long-grain rice and other specialty rice. Kumar Kewlani, representing one of the participating rice mills, said, “We have been exporting rice to China since the market opened up, with shipments of thousands of tons monthly. Exhibiting here is a great way to showcase the unique qualities of Pakistani rice and other food products.”

The frozen meal section was also a highlight, with Pakistani companies exhibiting a diverse range of ready meals. These include traditional Pakistani curries, biryanis, and naans, as well as international flavors that cater to a global audience.
Packaged in convenient and sustainable packaging, frozen meals are designed to capture the attention of busy consumers looking for quick and healthy meal options.

In addition to product displays, SIAL Shanghai 2024 featured 10 themed forums covering topics such as new retail, supply chain management, meat products, imported foods, food technology, Chinese cuisine, food and beverage investment, beverages and food distribution. These forums brought together over a hundred industry experts, leading businesses and thought leaders to discuss the latest trends and hot topics in the food and beverage industry.

Workshop on ‘Bio Safety and Bio Security’ held

By
Ali Ali
-
0
SARGODHA, May 31 (APP):The University of Sargodha (UoS) organized a one-day workshop on ‘Bio Safety and Bio Security’
in coordination with the Research Innovation and Commercialization on Friday.
The Pakistan Biological Safety Association and Dental Solution Sargodha was the co-partner
of the event.
The purpose of the workshop was to create an awareness regarding protective measures for
public and environment from germs, ideology and practical aspects of bio safety and bio security
and care of laboratory, and other health sectors.
Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Qaisar Abbas participated as a chief guest.
He said that the workshop was a step towards professional skills and equipped with knowledge
for handling the biological data in a safer way.

PM to visit China from June 4-8; will meet leadership, business community: FO

By
Ishtiaq Rao
-
0
PPP

ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will undertake a five-day official visit to China from June 4-8, 2024, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.

During the three-segment trip, the prime minister will visit the cities of Xi’an and Shenzhen, besides Beijing, the Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch announced at her weekly press briefing.

She said that Shehbaz Sharif would meet President Xi Jinping and hold delegation-level talks with Premier Li Qiang in Beijing. He will also hold meetings with Chairman of Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress Zhao Leji and heads of key government departments.

The spokesperson said that an important aspect of the prime minister’s visit will be meetings with corporate executives of leading Chinese companies dealing in oil and gas, energy, ICT, and emerging technologies.

In Shenzhen, Prime Minister Shehbaz will address the China-Pakistan Business Forum with leading businesspersons, entrepreneurs, and investors from both countries. He will also visit Economic and Agricultural Zones in China, she added.

The prime minister’s visit to China manifests the iron-clad Pakistan-China friendship characterized by frequent high-level exchanges and dialogue.

The two sides will undertake discussions to further strengthen the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership; upgrade China-Pakistan Economic Corridor; advance trade and investment; enhance cooperation in security and defence, energy, space, science & technology, and education; and promote cultural cooperation and people-to-people contacts, thus setting the future trajectory of Pakistan-China friendship.

Pak-Kuwait to sign a loan agreement US$ 25 million in post JMC

By
Ali Ali
-
0
ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP):Pakistan and Kuwait signed a loan agreement worth US$ 25 million in the 5th session of the Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) convened in Kuwait.
The key outcomes of the session included the agreement to sign a loan agreement for US$ 25 million on June 3, for the Mohmand Dam, with assurances of support from the Kuwait Fund for engaging the Arab Coordination Group in financing the Diamer Bhasha Dam, according to a press release issued here on Friday.
The 5th Session of the Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) convened from May 28th to May 30th, 2024, in Kuwait, marking a significant stride in strengthening the ties between the two nations. Chaired by Mr. Abdul Aleem Khan, Minister for Privatization, and Omar Saud Al-Omar, Minister for Commerce and Industry of the State of Kuwait, the session underscored a shared commitment to enhance collaboration across various sectors.
A high-level delegation from Pakistan, representing key ministries including Economic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Commerce, overseas Pakistanis and HRD, Interior, Board of Investment, Petroleum Division, and SIFC, engaged in fruitful discussions aimed at fostering mutual prosperity.
Mr. Ziad Abdullah Al-Najem, undersecretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, extended a warm welcome to Pakistan’s delegation, highlighting the pivotal role of the session in advancing bilateral relations.
Additionally, the Fund expressed its willingness to consider the financing request from the Government of Pakistan for the Kachhi Canal project.
During the JMC proceedings, significant strides were made with the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements in fields such as industrial cooperation, engineering councils, and the news exchange.
Moreover, consensus was reached to formalize MoUs for collaboration in agriculture, maritime, and ports; avoidance of double taxation; quality and safety standards; and high education commissions. Both sides also agreed to establish Joint Working Groups (JWGs) to address matters pertaining to trade and investment as well as visa and consular affairs.
Abdul Aleem Khan, Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Privatization, and Communication, Pakistan, expressed contentment regarding the convening of the 5th Session of the Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission and highlighted the focal points of bilateral discussions.
Khan underscored the significance of private sector engagement in strengthening economic ties and urged Kuwait to streamline visa procedures for Pakistanis, a crucial step in advancing economic partnership and facilitating meaningful interaction, given Pakistan’s abundant pool of skilled professionals in diverse fields.
He extended an invitation to Kuwaiti investors to leverage Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council and identified key sectors ripe for investment.
The minister commended the positive outcomes, including the establishment of joint working groups and the successful conclusion of memoranda in the fields of industry, engineering, and news exchange.
He further conveyed appreciation to the Kuwait counterparts for their hospitality and to the experts for their dedication to advancing mutual interests.
Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs and head of delegation at the technical level, emphasized the potential of the JMC in augmenting trade and fostering cooperation in education, science, and culture, laying the groundwork for a robust partnership.
Dr. Niaz also lauded Kuwait’s investment in Pakistan’s strategic sectors, expressing optimism for mutual economic and cultural benefits.
The deliberations during the session encompassed a wide spectrum of sectors, including Commerce and Trade, Food Security and Livestock, Maritime and Ports, Industries and Production, Investment, Energy, Oil, and Natural Resources, Overseas Employment, Visa, Higher Education, Science and Technology, Banking and Finance, Taxation, Arts and Culture, Sports and Tourism, Health, Information and Broadcasting, and Development Cooperation.
In conclusion, Abdul Aleem Khan expressed gratitude to Kuwait for hosting the 5th session of the Pakistan-Kuwait JMC, acknowledging the diligent efforts of experts from both nations.
He looked forward to the 6th session of the JMC in Islamabad, anticipating significant progress in all areas of mutual interest. Omar Saud Al-Omar reiterated Kuwait’s unwavering commitment to implementing the discussed measures, reaffirming the mutual determination to foster a dynamic partnership between Pakistan and Kuwait.

Garrison Uni Lahore, Jamia Poonch collaborate for academic advancement

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

By Hasnain Gardezi

RAWALAKOT, (Azad Kashmir), May 31 (APP): : In a bid to foster collaborative learning and skill enhancement, a delegation comprising faculty members from Garrison University Lahore embarked on a three day transformative visit to Jamia Poonch Rawalkot.
Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Professor Dr. Zakir Zakaria, the University of Poonch is set to inaugurate a Faculty Exchange Programme, aimed at fortifying academic synergies between the two esteemed institutions. A fruitful dialogue ensued during the visit, underscoring the commitment to mutual cooperation and knowledge exchange for the benefit of students and faculty alike.
The visit commenced on May 27 with a warm welcome extended by Dr. Syed Jawad Zareen, the Focal Person of Jamia Poonch, to the seven-member delegation from Lahore Garrison University. Over the course of their visit, the delegation explored the rich cultural tapestry of Rawalakot, engaging with locals and immersing themselves in the vibrant community.
On May 28, the delegation embarked on a journey to explore the renowned tourist destinations of Toli Peer and Las Dina, where they not only enjoyed the scenic beauty but also engaged with the local populace, delving into the nuances of regional culture, language, and cuisine.

Garrison Uni Lahore, Jamia Poonch collaborate for academic advancement
The following day witnessed a significant milestone as a rich session unfolded at the Vice-Chancellor’s Secretariat. Registrar Jamia Prof. Abdul Rauf extended a warm welcome to the delegation, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to fostering a robust academic partnership. Dr. Syed Jawad Zareen, in his address, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, echoing the sentiments of mutual growth and learning.
The delegation’s interactions extended to various departments, with faculty members from Lahore Garrison University engaging with their counterparts at Jamia Poonch. Dr. Hadi and Dr. Ali delved into discussions on research and academic exchange at the Department of Computer Science and IT, while Mem Maham and Mem Fatima shed light on the role of social sciences during their visit to the Mass Communication department.

Garrison Uni Lahore, Jamia Poonch collaborate for academic advancement
Meanwhile, Dr. Arshad, Dr. Ghulam Muhammad, and Madam Aleen explored avenues of collaboration in Mathematics, fostering dialogue and exchange of ideas with faculty and students.
The visit culminated with visits to the Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Management, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the DVM faculty, where discussions centered on potential areas of collaboration and research.
In a gesture of appreciation, the participants were treated to a traditional feast, symbolizing the warmth and camaraderie shared between the two institutions. As the visit drew to a close, anticipation grew for future collaborations, with Jamia Poonch poised to honor the delegation with shields and gifts, symbolizing the enduring bond forged through academic exchange and cooperation.

China awaits Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit as an ‘opportunity for greater development’: Foreign ministry spox

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

BEIJING, May 31 (APP): The Chinese foreign ministry on Friday said China looks forward to the visit of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, taking it as an “opportunity to promote greater joint development”.

Spokesperson Mao Ning at her regular briefing said the official visit would boost the China-Pakistan all-weather strategic partnership and build a closer community of destiny in the new era.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will pay an official visit of China from June 4 to 8 on the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang. This is his first visit to China after the establishment of the new government this year.

Sharing details of the visit, the foreign ministry spokesperson said Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Zhao Leji will hold meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

In Beijing, she said, the leadership of two countries would have an in-depth exchange of views on bilateral relations and issues of common concern, and jointly plan the blueprint for the future development of China-Pakistan relations.

PM Shehbaz Sharif will also visit Guangdong and Shaanxi provinces.

Mao Ning pointed out that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners and “iron-clad” friends. China-Pakistan friendship has been tested by the winds and clouds of the times, and is as solid as a rock and as stable as Mount Taishan, she added.

“China and Pakistan have had close high-level exchanges in recent years, and bilateral practical cooperation has been steadily advancing, with fruitful results in the high-quality construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, she said. “The two sides have maintained good communication and coordination in international and regional affairs.”

APP/asg

India must stop campaign to suppress political activists, intimidate Kashmiris: FO spox

By
Ishtiaq Rao
-
0

ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP): Pakistan on Friday reiterated its call for India to stop its ongoing campaign to suppress political activists and intimidate the Kashmiri public in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

“The headquarters of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference in Srinagar also remains sealed. India must stop its ongoing campaign to suppress political activists and intimidate the Kashmiri public. The people of Jammu and Kashmir should be able to freely exercise their right to self-determination as enshrined in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” the Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said at her weekly press briefing here.

Highlighting the unabated Indian authorities’ campaign to crush dissent in IIOJK and the confiscation of properties, she told the media that earlier this week, the properties including lands and a shop of two more Kashmiri youth were sealed in Shopian District. The Indian authorities have so far seized hundreds of properties across the occupied territory to punish Kashmiri activists, she added.

The spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to continue extending political, diplomatic, and moral support to Kashmiris for the just and peaceful settlement of the dispute as per the UN Security Council resolutions.

She told the media that during his visit from May 29-30, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Acting President Yousuf Raza Gilani, besides holding in-depth talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral strategic relations and broaden the scope of cooperation in all areas of mutual interests and agreed to enhance parliamentary exchanges, strengthen cultural cooperation, and promote people-to-people exchanges.

The spokesperson mentioned a symposium held by the foreign ministry in connection with Vesak Day that brought together foreign delegates, including at the ministerial level, prominent Buddhist monks, and scholars on Buddhism and interfaith understanding.

Besides showcasing Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage, the event explored the dimensions of Gandharan Heritage that emerged over 3,000 years ago in Northwest Pakistan, the importance of building bridges and understanding between different communities.

Spokesperson Baloch highlighted the fourth round of Pakistan-Greece Bilateral Political Consultations held on May 29 in Athens, and the sixth round of Pakistan-Hungary Bilateral Political Consultations on May 27 in Budapest. During the meetings, the respective sides agreed to further advancing high-level dialogue and cooperation, and work together on maintaining a positive trajectory in bilateral ties.

She told the media that on May 29, Pakistan and St. Lucia formally established diplomatic ties at a ceremony in New York. The joint communique was signed by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Munir Akram, and his counterpart from St. Lucia.

“Over the last three years, Pakistan has established diplomatic relations with Palau, Kiribati, the Dominican Republic, St. Kitts & Nevis, and the Commonwealth of Dominica. This decision reflects Pakistan’s firm commitment to enhance its diplomatic outreach and expand cooperation with countries around the globe,” the spokesperson remarked.

Spokesperson Baloch announced that at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will undertake an official visit to China from June 4-8.

In Beijing, he will meet President Xi and hold delegation-level talks with Premier Li, besides meeting with Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, and heads of key government departments. The prime minister will also visit the cities of Xi’an and Shenzhen.

An important aspect of Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit will be meetings with corporate executives of leading Chinese companies dealing in oil and gas, energy, ICT, and emerging technologies.

In Shenzhen, he will address the Pakistan-China Business Forum with leading businesspersons, entrepreneurs, and investors from both countries. He will also visit economic and agricultural zones in China.

1...9,4769,4779,478...30,953Page 9,477 of 30,953

ABOUT US

Serving the nation since 1947 by providing an accurate, objective, uninterrupted flow of news to the people, the national news service is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to transform the existing news operations into a forward-looking service – APP Digital for its diverse subscriber-base and the public.

Contact us: news@app.com.pk

FOLLOW US

Copyright © Associated Press of Pakistan