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OIC SG felicitates Pakistan on its election as UNSC non-permanent member

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NNPS Desk
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OIC SG

ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Hissein Brahim Taha has extended his congratulations to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Federal Republic of Somalia on their election as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2025-2026.

“The Secretary-General noted that the election of the two States, at a challenging time for international peace and security, is a testimony of the confidence placed in them in the fulfillment of their responsibility to the Security Council,” OIC Secretariat in Jeddah said in a press statement on Sunday.

Appreciating Pakistan and Somalia’s valuable role as members of the OIC, the secretary-general conveyed his wishes for success in their noble endeavors in serving the global community.

KP Govt lawyer’s statement in SC on appointment of VCs incorrect, misleading: KP Governor

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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Governor KP
PESHAWAR, Jun 09 (APP): The Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday termed the statement of lawyer of KP government in Supreme Court of Pakistan regarding selection of vice chancellors and sending its summary to the Governor KP was totally incorrect and misleading and urged the Chief Justice to take notice of it.
The Governor made it clear that neither the said summary has been received by the governor house nor he stopped it.
The Governor has requested Chief Justice of Pakistan to take notice of this serious matter, stating that if such erroneous statements are made at the official level in front of the esteemed apex judiciary of the country, then it would be extremely unfortunate for the country, said a statement issued by Governor House here.
Addressing as the special guest at the Annual Convocation  2024 of Allama Iqbal Open University in Peshawar, the Governor said that erroneous statement was made by KP government lawyer in the Supreme Court regarding the appointment of vice chancellors claiming that the selection had been finalized and summary was sent to the Governor House for approval. However, the Governor clarified that no such summary had been received, and no approval was granted.
Expressing his deep concerns, the Governor stated that first orders for acting vice chancellors in seven top universities were issued against legal norms and later its summary was sent to the Governor House for approval that was returned back with an objection of being unlawful.
The Governor said that seeing this kind of education system in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was a matter of great concern.
Despite completion of selection of vice chancellors by academic search committee for 24 universities, he said that the appointments have not been made and a letter was written to CM KP to complete the appointment process quickly to take these universities out of administrative and educational criss.
Governor Kundi praised the efforts of Allama Iqbal Open University in providing quality and free education to students including transgenders besides the children of martyrs and soldiers.
 He emphasized the university’s role in providing quality education to marginalized communities of KP, helping them in poverty allievation and combating illiteracy.
Highlighting the University’s achievements, Governor Faisal Kundi lauded Allama Iqbal Open University for producing over five million graduates in its 50-year educational journey.
He distributed degrees among 250 students during the convocation, including masters, MPhil, graduation degrees and awarded gold medals to 40 outstanding achievers.
He mentioned that although the number of universities in the province has increased, there was still a lack of focus on quality education and research. The provincial government has allocated only Rs3 billion in its budget for 35 universities of KP.
The Governor said that he had written a letter to the Prime Minister and also held a meeting with him to ensure the continuation of financial grants to universities by the Higher Education Commission, for which he was thankful to PM Muhammad Shahbaz  Sharif for allocating financial grants for universities across the country including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The Governor praised the provision of free education to the children of martyrs and disabled by Allama Iqbal Open University, terming it a significant service which deserves commendation.
He stated that Allama Iqbal Open University, through its unique education system, has become a prestigious national educational institution, providing educational services to individuals across the country by transcending regional and temporal limitations. The University has rendered exemplary services on a large scale to provide education servicez to marginalized ones so that they can fulfill their dreams, he said.
He mentioned that the establishment of 54 regional campuses and model study centers of the university was a testament to the continuous efforts of the faculty and its administration.
Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Naseer Mahmood, thanked Governor for gracing the convocation and presented a report on the institution’s overall performance.

Pakistan Pavilion at ISB int’l festival attracts visitors

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): The Embassy of Pakistan in Brussels on Sunday participated in International School of Brussels (ISB) festival with a uniquely designed Pakistani pavilion.

The ISB international festival is an annual celebration showcasing diverse cultures and traditions from around the world.

The diverse student community of the school actively participated with 100 countries represented in the event with their distinctive displays, a press release said.

On the occasion, Pakistan Ambassador to Belgium Amna Baloch said that the international festival served as a wonderful platform to showcase Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage, diversity, and the warm hospitality of their people.

“It is heartening to see such enthusiasm and interest in our culture from the international community,” she added.

Pakistan Pavilion at ISB int’l festival attracts visitors

Visitors deeply appreciated the Pakistani cuisine and the beautiful artefacts displayed at the Pakistan Pavilion, making it one of the highlights of the festival.

The event provided an opportunity to present rich heritage, cultural diversity, tourism, and export potential of the country.

These displays included artefacts, handicrafts, traditional costumes, and photographs.

A selection of books and documentaries on tourism and culture in Pakistan provided visitors with a unique insight into the country’s rich history, traditions, and tourism potential.

Traditional Pakistani street food was a major attraction, drawing a large number of visitors, who enjoyed delicacies such as Biryani, samosas, gulab jamun, and the special Pakistani chai.

The pavilion also featured a Henna (Mehndi) corner, offering intricate and beautiful designs for those seeking a more immersive cultural experience.

Particular interest was taken in Made in Pakistan sports items i.e. football and cricket kits. Children and parents took special pictures with the World Cup Football on the Pakistan stall.

Saudi Authority unveils operational plan for Hajj season 1445 AH

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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Saudi Authority
ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of Two Holy Mosques has announced that all facilities are ready to welcome pilgrims.
The authority reiterated the readiness of all facilities and services, which function at the highest level and enjoy advanced infrastructure.
These include cooling and air conditioning systems, fans, audio and visual systems, as well as the door systems of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. Escalators and elevators, means of transportation within the Two Holy Mosques, and special pathways for pilgrims are also prepared.
The area around the Grand Mosque has been arranged to facilitate the move of electric vehicles for Tawaf and Sa’i, and bathrooms and ablution areas have been prepared for the elderly and people with disabilities.
The Department of Services and Systems at the Two Holy Mosques operates round the clock to ensure a spiritual environment for pilgrims, so that they may perform their rituals with ease, and to maintain a steady supply of Zamzam water to the two holy mosques.
To enrich the experience of the pilgrims, exhibitions, including virtual, introduce them to the landmarks of the two holy mosques, offering educational content to deepen religious understanding and enhance the spiritual and emotional connection to the two holy mosques.
The authority has mobilized 5,138 workers to ensure the daily cleaning and disinfection of the Grand Mosque, under the supervision of 400 employees operating 24 hours a day. This is carried out with the help of 4,000 pieces of modern equipment and machinery.
Moreover, 68 screens have been prepared providing guidance in 53 languages, while lessons and sermons are translated in 10 languages.
The authority has also prepared 140 doors to facilitate entry and exit at the Grand Mosque during the Hajj season, and operates 251 golf carts, all part of the operational plan for Hajj season 1445 AH. Some 10,000 manual carts are available at 20 sites throughout the Grand Mosque and its courtyards.
The authority has also prepared 20,000 Zamzam containers, as well as 3,442 bathrooms which are cleaned and sterilized daily.

Government Hajj Scheme: Pre-Hajj flight operation to conclude on Monday

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NNPS Desk
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By Muhammad Aslam

MAKKAH AL-MUKARRAMAH, Jun 9 (APP): A month-long pre-Hajj flight operation, which began on May 9 to transport around 70,105 from major cities of Pakistan to holy cities of Madinah and Makkah under the government scheme, would complete with the arrival of the last flight at the King Abdulaziz International Airport Jeddah on Monday morning.

As per the schedule, a copy of which is available with APP, a Saudi Airlines SV-3727 would leave Islamabad International Airport for Jeddah at 3 a.m. (PST) carrying 380 passengers – the last batch of Pakistani intending pilgrims under the government scheme.

This year, 160,000 Pakistani pilgrims will perform the religious obligation of Hajj, with 70,000 arriving under the government scheme and around 90,000 through private Hajj Groups Organizers (HGOs).

Official statistics indicate that around 63,321 pilgrims have already reached Saudi Arabia under the private scheme, with the remaining individuals expected to arrive before the start of Hajj on June 14, the 8th of Zilhajj.
Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, requires every financially and physically able adult Muslim to undertake the pilgrimage to Makkah’s holy Islamic sites at least once in their lifetime.

As the Saudi government finalizes preparations for Hajj 2024, over 1.9 million pilgrims worldwide, including 160,000 from Pakistan, are expected to perform the pilgrimage this year.

With the Saudi government’s elaborate preparations in place, the stage is set for a spiritual journey of a lifetime for the pilgrims, during which they would be communing with Allah Almighty seeking forgiveness for their sins and invoking His blessings.

President expresses grief over shahadat of security forces personnel

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NNPS Desk
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President Zardari

ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday expressed grief over shahadat of personnel of security forces who lost their lives after their vehicle reportedly hit an improvised explosive device (IED) in District Lakki Marwat.

The president paid tribute to the martyred Jawans of Pakistan Army and prayed for the high ranks of the departed souls, President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release.

He also condemned the IED attack by the terrorists and reiterated the resolve of the entire nation to root out the cancer of terrorism.

Paying tribute to the sacrifices and valour of shaheed Jawans, the president said the nation would never forget the sacrifices of its sons and Shuhada and expressed condolences with the bereaved families and prayed for them to bear the losses with fortitude.

Ashrafi urges pilgrims to avoid political, sectarian activities, backs Saudi Arabia’s Fatwa on Hajj regulations

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NNPS Desk
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By Rehan Khan

ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi on Sunday underscored the importance of maintaining the sanctity of Hajj as a purely religious duty and urged pilgrims to refrain from engaging in political and sectarian activities during their pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

In a media talk, he specifically advised pilgrims to avoid carrying political flags, banners, or pictures, and to steer clear of political gatherings or communal debates.

Ashrafi emphasized that adherence to Saudi laws and regulations was crucial for a successful and respectful pilgrimage.
Highlighting the scale of this year’s pilgrimage, he mentioned that between 68,000 government-sponsored pilgrims and an additional 90,000 private pilgrims were expected to perform Hajj. He noted that all operations related to Hajj would be completed by June 12.

He also reminded prospective pilgrims that performing Hajj required official permission and those intending to perform Umrah or holding an Iqama must secure the necessary approvals to participate in Hajj.

Ashrafi announced his full support for the recent Fatwa issued by the Supreme Council of Ulema of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, “which mandates that performing Hajj without official permission is impermissible.”

He appealed to all Muslims to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations set by Saudi Arabia regarding Hajj. “The Fatwa of the Council of prominent Ulema of Saudi Arabia is clear: Performing Hajj without the required permissions is a sin. We urge all intending pilgrims to respect this ruling to avoid legal complications,” Ashrafi stated.

He said the leadership of Saudi Arabia had previously warned that all Hajj arrangements must be made through approved companies, and they had announced heavy fines and legal consequences for those attempting to perform Hajj without proper authorization. He reiterated this warning and encourages all pilgrims to comply with these regulations to ensure a peaceful and lawful pilgrimage.

Ashrafi also emphasized the importance of booking Hajj only through companies authorized by the Saudi government. Unauthorized bookings and travel arrangements would be considered illegal, and violators would face severe penalties, he added.

He further addressed an unfortunate incident involving Pakistani beggars in Haram, calling it a source of national shame and urging better conduct from all pilgrims.

Ashrafi expressed gratitude to the Saudi government for their exceptional Hajj arrangements, specifically thanking Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, for the ‘Route to Makkah’ programme.

Captain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPR

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NNPS Desk
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Captain

RAWALPINDI, Jun 09 (APP): A Captain along with six soldiers of Pakistan Army on Sunday embraced martyrdom after an improvised explosive device exploded on vehicle of Security Forces in Lakki Marwat district.

Captain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPRCaptain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPR

According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release, the martyred soldiers were identified as Captain Muhammad Faraz Ilyas (age: 26 years, resident of Kasur District) along with six other brave sons of the soil; Subedar Major Muhammad Nazir (age: 50 years, resident of; Skardu district), Lance Naik Muhammad Anwar (age: 34 years, resident of: Ghanchi district), Lance Naik Hussain Ali (age: 36 years, resident of: Ghizer district), Sepoy Asad Ullah (age: 33 years, resident of: Multan district), Sepoy Manzoor Hussain (age: 27 years, resident of: Gilgit district), Sepoy Rashid Mehmood (age: 31 years, resident of Rawalpindi district); who made the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom.

Captain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPRCaptain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPR

The sanitization of the area was being carried out to eliminate any terrorists present in the area and perpetrators of this henious act would be brought to justice.

Captain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPRCaptain along with six soldiers embraced martyrdom after IED went off: ISPR

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” the ISPR said.

Guests praise Kingdom’s services to Islam, Muslims

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Zaka Ullah Ch
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Guests praise
ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): Pilgrims performing this year’s Hajj under the Guests of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit hailed the generous gesture as a proof of the special care and attention the Kingdom’s leadership pays to Islam and Muslims.
Secretary General of Islamic Society of Vietnam Mustapha Yousef praised the great services the Kingdom provides to pilgrims, not only at holy sites but in Makkah, Madinah, and in all roads pilgrims take. He said the Kingdom’s generosity has always removed all obstacles and ensured pilgrims a smooth Hajj,SPA reported.
Hajji Murad from Uzbekistan extended his thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for his efforts to unify Muslims and serve their causes. He commended the efforts of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance for implementing humanitarian initiatives.
Abdulwali Abdulbaqi, a pilgrim who works as reporter for Uzbekistan national TV, expressed his gratitude for being able to perform this year’s Hajj under the Custodian of Two Holy Mosques Program, thanking the Kingdom’s leadership for the service to Islam and Muslims and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for the generous hospitality they receive.

SWA operates first pump in Jamoum Governorate, Makkah Region, at start of Hajj season 1445

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NNPS Desk
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SWA operates

ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP): The Saudi Water Authority (SWA) supervised the start of the first pump at the second pumping station in Jamoum Governorate, operated by the Water Transport and Technology Company (WTTC), to coincide with the start of the Hajj season 1445 H.

The project, entailing a 650-km-long pipe and a value exceeding SAR4 billion, is part of “Rabigh-Jeddah-Makkah” water transportation system; it was executed to ensure adequate water supply to the Makkah Region governorates and centers, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday.

WTTC is ready to supply the Makkah Region with up to 1.3 million cubic meters per day, with dip tanks, whose storage capacity exceeds more than one million cubic meters, at full capacity, and having increased the efficiency of pumping stations to 125 percent of the design pumping capacity, raising the storage quantities to 98 percent of the design storage capacity, and implementing business continuity plans with high efficiency, to meet the needs of pilgrims for water.

The SWA announced complete readiness of the operational water system, which entails production, transportation, storage and distribution, to keep pace with the water need and improve services during this year’s Hajj season 1445 H, in implementation of the wise leadership’s directives to make all efforts to serve the pilgrims, and ensure that they perform their rituals with complete peace of mind and at ease.

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