Home Blog Page 9497

Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem toured “Bell of Hope” at Sindh Governor’s House

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

KARACHI, Aug 15 (APP): Accompanied by Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori, Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem toured the “Umeed Ki Ghanti” (Bell of Hope) initiative, at the Sindh Governor’s House here Thursday.

Arshad Nadeem expressed pleasant surprise after ringing the “Umeed Ki Ghanti,” appreciating the symbolic gesture. Governor Kamran Tessori briefed him on the objectives and mission of the initiative.

During the visit, the national hero also inspected the ration bags prepared under the Governor’s Initiative, commending the effort to support the needy.

Arshad Nadeem further visited the IT classes, where he was provided with detailed information about the facilities offered to the students. He praised the quality of the resources and facilities provided to the students under this program.

Arshad Nadeem concluded his visit by expressing his admiration for the remarkable work being carried out under the Governor’s Initiative, acknowledging its positive impact on the community.

Over $1bn textile products exported in July 2024

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): Textile exports reached $1,271.136 million during the first month of the current financial year (2024-25), the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported on Thursday.

Textile exports showed a decline of 3.09 percent from $1,311.650 million during the same month of last year (July 2023-24).

The textile commodities that contributed in trade growth included tents, canvas and tarpaulin the exports of which increased by 14.22 percent to $10.877 million during the July 2024 as compared to the exports of $9.523 million last year July.

The other commodities that witnessed growth in trade included readymade garments the exports of which grew by 7.57 percent to $295.522 million from $274.730 million whereas the export of art, silk and synthetic textile rose by 4.12 percent to $27.245 million.

The textile commodities that witnessed negative growth in trade included cotton yarn, the exports of which declined by 42.54 percent, from $97.031 million to $55.750 million whereas the export of cotton cloth decreased by 0.56 percent from 140.936 million to 140.148 million.

Likewise, the export of yarn other than cotton yarn also dipped by 22.35 percent from 3.292 million to 2.556 million, knitwear also went down by 1.88, from $364.541 million to $357.686 million, bed wear by 1.20 percent, from $216.910 million to $214.305 million and towels by 3.67 percent, from $72.766 million to $70.093 million.

The exports of made up article (excluding towels and bedwear) decreased by 5.84 percent from $51.039 million from $48.057.

The exports of all other textile materials decreased by 9.38 percent from $53.956 million to $48.897 million.

Meanwhile, on month-on-month basis the textile exports from the country declined by 10.13 percent during the month of July 2024 as compared to the exports of $1,414.417 million recorded in June 2024, the PBS data revealed.

Sindh Education Dept reopens 2889 closed schools: Sardar Shah

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

KARACHI, Aug 15 (APP): Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah, Thursday, announced that 2889 closed schools have been reopened across the province under the ongoing educational reform process.

The minister, in a statement issued here, said that as many as 2587 teachers were appointed in the closed schools on recommendations of ‘Teachers Placement Committee’ amid improved teachers’ availability following the merit-based recruitment of over 60,000 teachers in Sindh.

Sardar Shah termed reopening of schools- those were closed mainly due to shortage of teachers- as a major development in education reforms in Sindh and vowed that no school will remain closed in the province due to the paucity of teaching staff.

Sindh School Education and Literacy Department had formed a Teachers Placement Committee in order to re-open the viable closed Schools and rationalization of teaching staff in May 2024. On the recommendations of the committee 2587 teachers have been appointed in viable closed schools and a notification in the regard has also been issued by the department concerned.

The appointments of teachers in the closed schools were made at the Taluka (Tehsil) level to ensure teacher availability, the minister said adding that, however, the case of 169 closed schools in deprived talukas was pending as the matter was under litigation and those schools will be opened according to the court decision.

He said that implementation of the placement plan would continue and new teachers will be appointed immediately in case of retirement or death of any serving teacher.

“The provincial government has taken remarkable steps under education reforms, and now the community should also play its role,” he said and urged every member of society to lodge complaints against absentee teachers.

Sardar Shah also instructed teachers to dispose-off their duties with honesty and sense of responsibility and warned of action under efficiency and disciplinary rules against those who fail to do so.

President Zardari approves Hilal-e-Imtiaz for Ali Haider Gilani

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday approved Hilal-e-Imtiaz award for Ali Haider Gilani, said a statement issued by the President House.

The award to Gilani was approved on the advice of the Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

IHC disposes off PTI’s plea for NOC to protest

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday disposed off a petition after the district administration assured to issue NOC for PTI’s procession near Tarnol.
The court rejected the request of PTI to grant permission to hold protest at F-9 Park.
Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb heard the case, filed by PTI seeking permission for protest. Lawyer Barrister Shoaib Shaheen argued that his party was not being issued NOC for the protest for last six months.
The lawyer said that the administration has given a place where even 5,000 people would be unable to reach. He said that they should be given approval for protest in F-9 Park, parade ground or at Peshawar Mor.
The court said that advocate general Islamabad has given assurance to issue NOC for protest near Tarnol on August 22. It said that the court couldn’t pass an order regarding the location of the protest as it was the provision of the district administration.
After this, the court disposed off the petition.

PM Shehbaz calls for vigilance against flooding in Punjab’s urban, Chenab river areas

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif directed the NDMA, PDMAs, and other relevant agencies to remain on high alert to address the potential severe flooding in areas near the Chenab River and urban flooding caused by heavy rains in Punjab.

According to a statement from the PM Office Media, the prime minister indicated that he was personally monitoring the anticipated heavy monsoon spell until August 25.

He had directed National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMAs), rescue and relief agencies, civil defense, and district administrations to be prepared to protect residents in the Chenab River catchment area and cities at risk of flooding due to heavy rains.

The prime minister directed the relevant authorities to ensure preparations for the evacuation and rescue of people, as well as for drainage, water, medicines, tents, and other relief items in any emergency situation, besides safeguarding the public.

He directed the relevant agencies to keep the public informed about the anticipated flooding in vulnerable areas and to take precautionary measures to prevent expected floods around canals, nullahs, and rivers.

He also instructed that citizens be made aware of NDMA’s Disaster Alert application to monitor the situation at all times.

PM Shehbaz lauds armed forces’ over successful Kurram operation against Khawarij terrorists

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif lauded the armed forces on Thursday for their successful operation in Kurram District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which led to the death of seven Khawarij terrorists besides the arrest of five others.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s media office, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the armed forces of Pakistan had worked tirelessly round the clock to rid the country of the Khawarij terrorist threat.

The prime minister stated that the entire nation, including himself, had paid tribute to the brave officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Army, who had carried out their duties selflessly, risking their lives for the integrity of Pakistan.

The prime minister said that the entire nation stood by the Pakistan Army in its determination to rid the country of the menace of terrorism.

Committee constituted to probe abduction of an alleged foreign national

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP):The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police on Thursday made notable progress in a troubling case involving abduction and sexual assault. The incident was first reported when a woman was found on Wednesday, abandoned with her hands and feet bound within the Aabpara police station limits.
According to a police spokesperson, the woman who initially identified herself as Farwa and asserted that she was a Belgian citizen who had arrived in Pakistan in January 2024, has now been confirmed as Farwa Kayani, Daughter of Sultan Farid Kayani age 44 years a resident of Rawalpindi. Despite her claims of foreign nationality, the Belgian Embassy has denied any record of her entry into the country. This discrepancy has raised significant doubts about her alleged foreign identity.
The investigation into her case is being spearheaded by a special committee led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Arsalan Shahzaib. The committee is delving into the motives behind Farwa Kayani’s claim of foreign nationality and the nature of the allegations she made. Farwa Kayani, whose age was earlier said to be 28 years old, has been receiving medical treatment at Polyclinic Hospital after being discovered in a state of distress on Street No. 33, G6/1, Saddar Road.
According to the police spokesperson, there is currently no evidence supporting her claim of being a foreigner, and her statements have been marked by several inconsistencies. Concerns have also been raised about her mental state, particularly since she is fluent in Urdu and Punjabi, which contradicts her claim of being a foreign tourist.
The Islamabad Capital Police have urged the public to avoid speculation and refrain from sharing unverified information on social media. They assure that the senior command of the Islamabad Police is fully committed to uncovering the truth behind this complex and troubling case.

PMD forecast torrential rains in Balochistan, Sindh from Aug 16-18; rain in upper parts till Aug 20

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast torrential rains in Balochistan and Sindh from August 16-18 with occasional gaps.

The rainfall will continue in upper parts till August 20 with occasional gaps, the PMD said through an advisory issued on Thursday.

A low pressure weather system presently producing rains in upper parts is likely to move southward bringing strong monsoon currents from Arabian sea to southern parts of the country from August 16 (evening/night).

Under the influence of this weather system, rain-wind/thundershower with isolated heavy falls is expected in Sibi, Harnai, Ziarat, Kohlu, Barkhan, Dera Bugti, Zhob, Musa Khel, Naseerabad, Usta Muhammad, Jhal Magsi, Sohbatpur, Khuzdar, Kalat, Sikandarabad, Awaran, Kech, Panjgur, Gwadar ,(Jiwani, Pasni, Gwadar, Ormara), Hub and Lasbela. Loralai, Quetta, Sherani, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Mastung, Bolan, Harnai and Jaffarabad from August 16-19 with occasional gaps.

In Sindh, rain-wind/thundershower with few heavyfalls is expected in Sukkur, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Larkana, Dadu, Jacobabad, Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tharparkar, Mithi, Mirpur Khas, Umarkot and Sanghar from August 16-18 with occasional gaps.

In Kashmir, rain-wind/thundershower with few heavyfalls are expected in Neelum valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur from August 16-20 with occasional gaps.

In Punjab/Islamabad, rain-wind/thundershower (with scattered heavyfalls) are expected in Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Tala Gang, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Pakpattan, Kasur, Khushab and Sargodha from August 16-20 with occasional gaps. Rain-wind/thundershower with isolated heavyfalls is expected in Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Khanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bhakkar, Mianwali, Khanewal, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Rajanpur, Rahimyar Khan and Layyah on August 16 and August 17 with occasional gaps.

In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, rain-wind/thundershower with scattered heavyfalls are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Kohat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Swabi, Nowshera, Mardan, Charsadda, Hangu, Kurram, Orakzai, Waziristan, Bannu, Lakki Marwat and Dera Ismail Khan from August 16-20 with occasional gaps.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, rain-wind/thunderstorm is expected in Diamir, Astore, Skardu, Gilgit, Ghanche, Shigar) from August 16-18 with occasional gaps.

About the possible impacts, low lying areas inundation/Pluvial flood is expected in Balochistan and Sindh.
Torrential rains may generate landslides/flash flooding in local nullahs/streams of Dera Ghazi Khan, Dadu, Kalat, Khuzdar, Barkhan, Awaran, Panjgur, Washuk, Mastung, Lasbela August 16-18.

Torrential rains may generate landslides/flash flooding in Murree, Galliyat, Mansehra, Kohistan, Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Nowshera, Swabi, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Northeast Punjab, Hill torrents of and Kashmir from August 16, 18 and 19.

Heavy downpour may cause urban flooding in low lying areas of Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Nowshera and Peshawar from August 16, 18 and 19.

The landslides may cause road closure at the vulnerable hilly areas of Balochistan from August 16-19 while in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan during the wet period.

Heavy downpour/windstorm and lightning may affect daily routines, and may damage weak structures like roof/wall of Kacha houses, electric poles, bill boards, vehicles, cause disruptions in the roads and solar panels etc during the period.
Farmers are advised to manage their activities keeping in view the weather forecast.

Travelers and tourists are advised to remain extra cautious and manage their traveling according to weather conditions and avoid any untoward situation during the wet spell.

All authorities concerned are advised to remain alert and take necessary measures to avoid any untoward situation.

CAMEA hosts webinar on “Interim Afghan Government three years in Power”

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 15 (APP): The Centre for Afghanistan Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) hosted a webinar on “Interim Afghan Government, Three Years in Power” at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) here Thursday.

The webinar was moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA. Speakers included Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BoG, ISSI; Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, Charge d’ Affaires/Minister Counselor, Afghanistan Embassy, Islamabad; Ambassador Ayaz Wazir, Former Pakistani Diplomat; Dr. Mandana Tishehyar, President of the Iranian Peace Studies Scientific Association; Dr. Ye Hailin, Director, Center for South Asia Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing; Dr. Zamaraeva Natalia Alekseevna, Senior Researcher Center for the Study of the Near and Middle East, Russia; Adam Weinstein, Deputy Director of the Middle East Program at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Washington D.C, a news release said.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood stated that while the Taliban had consolidated power over the past three years, significant concerns persisted regarding their governance, respect for human rights and women’s rights and counter-terrorism measures.

He acknowledged the positive developments such as improved security and certain economic indicators like increased revenue and exports, but noted that these were overshadowed by ongoing challenges in other domains.

He mentioned that potent threats from groups like ISKP and TTP continue to challenge the Taliban’s authority and stoke regional tensions. These concerns were borne out by the UN report as well. It was important for the Interim Afghan authorities to address Pakistan’s specific concerns on this account in an effective, credible and sustainable manner.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood also highlighted the complexities of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and emphasized the imperative of enhanced cooperation in diplomacy, trade and economy, and security and counter-terrorism to stabilize the region.

While stressing that a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan was in Pakistan’s vital interest, he underlined the need for the Taliban authorities to take the long view and work with Pakistan to counter the threats and realize the opportunities for peace, stability, connectivity and prosperity.

Ms Amina Khan noted that the Taliban have solidified their status as the de facto political authority, though not de jure. They have established a fair degree of stability and security, along with efforts to stabilize the economy.

In a significant diplomatic shift from the 1990s, the Taliban have been engaging in diverse regional and global interactions, including 18 active political missions internationally. However, she expressed concerns over ongoing human rights violations, particularly against women, and threats from transnational terrorist groups like ISKP and TTP.

Ms. Khan emphasized the fundamental importance of the bilateral relationship that is crucial in shaping the future of the region.

Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb stated that the Interim Afghan government had maintained internal unity, restored political and security stability and saved the economy from collapse through infrastructure projects. “Efforts have also focused on eliminating corruption, combating narcotics, reforming bureaucracies and generating youth employment. Despite international sanctions, Afghanistan has seen increased exports, the opening of over 1,500 factories, and plans for modernizing customs and establishing export centers. Diplomatic relations have strengthened with 39 active embassies, and border security has improved”, he said. He stated that no country was without differences or disagreements with others, but these should be resolved through dialogue.

Ambassador Ayaz Wazir acknowledged the Taliban’s control in Afghanistan despite lacking formal recognition. He expressed concerns about governance issues, including girls’ education, human rights, and the need for inclusivity. Ambassador Wazir urged the international community to recognize the Taliban’s reality and engage with them to ensure regional peace.

Dr. Mandana Tishehyar observed that despite the Taliban’s claim of defeating the U.S., they face governance challenges, raising security concerns for neighbouring countries. Economic talks have progressed, but the Taliban’s lack of recognition was due to the abandonment of the constitution and unclear foreign policy. She emphasized the importance of the SCO and multilateral engagement through the Afghanistan Contact Group to address these challenges collectively.

Dr. Ye Hailin discussed China’s focus on Afghanistan which was based on non-interference, respect for Afghan sovereignty and social economic development. He said that Beijing’s engagement was not based on conditionalities, but rather engagement with the Taliban for the welfare of the masses. He outlined five principles guiding China’s policy in Afghanistan, self-governance, respect for sovereignty, global commitment to reconstruction, Afghanistan’s right to choose its government, and unconditional assistance.

While expressing her views, Dr. Zamaraeva Natalia Alekseevna stated that the best approach towards Afghanistan was through engagement with the Taliban. She said a common approach was required towards the group that would ensure the Taliban addressing regional concerns. She talked about the presence of transnational terrorist groups, particularly the TTP. She said that despite Pakistan’s repeated concerns regarding the TTP, the Afghan Taliban had failed to resolve the matter.

Adam Weinstein highlighted that since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, while violence has decreased, threats emanating from transnational terrorist groups such as ISKP and the TTP continue which are not just threats for the region but for the wider international community as well.

He said that if an attack by the ISKP were to take place on continental Europe it would bring Afghanistan back to forefront of international focus. He said the Afghan Taliban were supporting terrorism and a low intensity war against Pakistan.

These presentations were followed by a Q&A session. While concluding, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood acknowledged progress under the Taliban rule, noting improvements in security and economic realm. He also stressed the importance of addressing issues like refugee management and terrorist threats.

1...9,4969,4979,498...32,229Page 9,497 of 32,229