Pakistan hockey team reach Malaysia for Azlan Shah Tournament

Thu, 2 May 2024, 10:38 PM

ISLAMABAD, May 02 (APP):The national hockey team has reached Malaysia to feature in the Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament commencing May 4.

The Pakistan national hockey team departed from Islamabad International Airport on Thursday.

The team, led by Ammad Shakeel Butt and Defender Abu Bakar to be his deputy, underwent a rigorous two-week training camp at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium to prepare for the competition.

Pakistan’s campaign in the tournament would commence with a match against hosts Malaysia on May 4, followed by encounters with South Korea on May 5, Japan on May 7, Canada on May 8, and New Zealand on May 10. The final of the Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament would be held on May 11.

The team comprises experienced players, including two goalkeepers — Abdullah and Muneeb-ur-Rehman, while it includes six defenders — Usama Bashir, Athisham, Mohammad Abdullah, Sufiyan, Abu Bakar, and captain Shakeel Butt. Midfielders Salman Razzaq, Arshad Liaqat, Moin Shakeel, Zakriya Hayat, Murtaza Yaqoob, and Ghazanfar Ali have also been selected.

Forwards Abdul Rehman, Hanan, Rana Waheed, and Ejaz Ahmed complete the squad.

Meanwhile, seven players have been selected as standbys, including Akmal Hussain, Aqeel Ahmed, Arbaz, Hammad Anjum, Abdul Rehman Jr., Abdul Manan, and Rooman.

The Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament is a premier international hockey competition, and Pakistan’s participation in the Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament is a testament to the country’s rich hockey heritage and talent. The team’s performance in the tournament would be closely watched by hockey fans across the country.

Hasan Ali recalled, Salman Agha, Haris Rauf back for Ireland, England T20Is

Ali Ali

Thu, 2 May 2024, 10:35 PM

Naeem Niazi

LAHORE, May 02 (APP):The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recalled all-rounder Hasan Ali to national duty while pace sensation Haris Rauf and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha have made a comeback in the 18-member squad picked for the two T20I series in Ireland and England between May 10 and 30.

The three-match T20Is against Ireland will be played from 10-14 May, while the five T20Is against England are scheduled between May 22 and 30.

Hasan Ali played his last T20I in 2022 and Haris Rauf was out of action due to shoulder injury during the PSL while Salman Agha was among the non-travelling reserves for the five-match T20I home series against New Zealand last month. Explosive wicket-keeper batter Azam Khan has also been picked after staying out of the New Zealand T20I series when he developed a hamstring injury. Mohammad Rizwan and Irfan Khan were rested and rehabilitated after sustaining minor niggles against New Zealand last month.

During a press conference at the Gaddafi stadium here on Thursday, the Men’s national selection committee announced the 18-member squad which included Hasan Ali and Salman Ali Agha while wrist-spinner Usama Mir and Zaman Khan could not make the cut and were left out keeping in mind various cricketing aspects.

The Men’s national selection committee admitted that a lot of deliberations were involved in the 18-member squad from which the 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20I World Cup 2024 in West Indies and USA will be picked. ““Crafting this squad was a challenging task due to the outstanding talent available,” Wahab Riaz said, adding that “We understand Usama and Zaman will be disappointed and they should be as they must be looking ahead to the tours of Ireland and England. They are quality cricketers and have long careers ahead of them. They need to continue to focus on their cricket so that they are available, if required.”

However, the selection committee put off announcement of 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20I World Cup 2024 till May 23 in Birmingham (England) after Pakistan have played their first T20I against England in Leeds. The ICC deadline for squad submission is May 24.

Wahab Riaz has said that the four players, working on their rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), including Mohammad Rizwan, Irfan Khan Niazi, Azam Khan and Haris Rauf have been picked after fitness assessment at which they showed significant improved. Wahab was optimist that the players will be fully fit by the start of the Ireland series in Dublin.

Hasan Ali’s selection is due to his experience and extraordinary performance in the ICC events and he might be useful during the second half of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies. Hasan Ali is currently playing county cricket for Warwickshire in England. Salman Ali Agha’s selection has been made to strengthen the spin-bowling attack with a useful off-spinner alongside Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan besides the part-timer Iftikahr Ahmed.

The 18-member Pakistan squad (in alphabetical order): Babar Azam (Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Usman Khan

Pakistan team is scheduled to depart for Dublin on May 7 following a three-day training camp in Lahore from 4-6 May.

Schedule of matches:

10 May – v Ireland, 1st T20I, Dublin

12 May – v Ireland, 2nd T20, Dublin

14 May – v Ireland, 3rd T20I, Dublin

22 May – v England, 1st T20I, Leeds

25 May – v England, 2nd T20I, Birmingham

28 May – v England 3rd T20I, Cardiff

30 May – v England, 4th T20I, The Oval

ADB delegation visits FBR

Ali Ali

Thu, 2 May 2024, 10:31 PM

ISLAMABAD, May 2 (APP):Asian Development Bank (ADB) mission on Thursday visited Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and met the senior officials of the board who have been assisting in the implementation of the Domestic Resource Mobilization Program (DRM).

The mission was led by Senior Director ADB Tariq Niazi and included Senior Public Sector Management Specialist Laisiasa Tora, Sana Masood and Farzana Noshab economist were also presented in the meeting, said a press release issued by FBR.

The mission’s objectives included discussion on structural and policy reforms under the DRM Program funded by the bank and showed satisfaction on the successful rolling down of the DRM Program and noted that significant achievements were made in the Sub-Program I of the DRM program.

Due to the dedicated efforts of FBR, $300 million was disbursed by ADB to the Government of Pakistan in December 2023. Sub-program I laid down the foundations for improved policies, laws and institutional capacity for the FBR.

Sub-program II reforms are to be completed by end 2024 which will build on earlier actions to ensure full implementation and operationalization.

FBR apprised the ADB team that the Revenue Division in line with the vision of the Prime Minister to transform Federal Board of Revenue into a digital tax administration and keeping pace with global trends, has embarked on a journey of digitalization focused towards automation of its processes and digitalizing of the economy.

These initiatives reduce the cost of compliance of taxpayers, document the economy, expand the tax base and lead FBR on a sustainable path to revenue growth. FBR will be collaborating with Karandaaz for developing a comprehensive digital strategy for realizing the digital transformation of FBR and its digitalization initiatives and their implementation.

Contours of a Digital Tax Administration Project of the FBR with the support of ADB were also discussed and the ADB team showed keen interest in this reform.

Both sides agreed to explore ways to strengthen collaboration in support of Government of Pakistan’s Digital Tax Administration Project.

Govt. expects to generate Rs30bn in first year implementation of forest administration policy

NNPS Desk

Thu, 2 May 2024, 10:27 PM

PESHAWAR, May 02 (APP): Provincial Advisor on Finance, Muzamil Aslam Thursday said that revenue of Rs 30 billion was expected in the first year under a scientific policy of forests administration that would be implemented after getting approval from provincial cabinet.

He was chairing a meeting that was convened to review scientific policy for administration of forests in KP. It was also attended by Provincial Minister for Forests, Fazal Hakeem, Secretary Forests, Nazar Hussain Shah and officials concerned.

Finance Advisor said that foreign investor would be invited under the scientific policy that would be implemented for administration of forests after approval of cabinet. He said that fifty percent of KP revenue was generated from timber that has reached to zero.

He said that forests are situated on 26 percent and said that decrease of forest land has also affected financial position of stakeholders. He informed that KP needs a result oriented policy that is finalized and soon be sent to cabinet for approval.

Ambassador Amna for enhanced collaboration between Pak, Belgian varsities

NNPS Desk

Thu, 2 May 2024, 10:09 PM

BRUSSELS, May 02 (APP): Ambassador of Pakistan to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg Amna Baloch on Thursday emphasizing the importance of bilateral relations between Belgium and Pakistan, highlighted the potential for fruitful cooperation and collaboration between universities in both countries.

The ambassador, during her visit to the Hasselt University in Belgium, commended the varsity for its innovative approach and impressive progress across various academic disciplines.

On her arrival, she was warmly received by Director Research, Library and Internationalisation, Sadia VANCAUWENBERGH.

As part of the university’s annual world evening event, Ambassador Amna Baloch also visited a Pakistani food stall, where she appreciated the efforts of Pakistani students in showcasing diverse Pakistani culture and cuisine on an international platform.

This visit underscores the commitment of Pakistan to strengthen ties with Belgium academic institutions for mutual benefit.

Jacaranda flowers bring natural beauty to Capital

NNPS Desk

Thu, 2 May 2024, 10:05 PM

ISLAMABAD, May 2 (APP): The spring has brought a lovely sight as the bright purple blooms of the Jacaranda trees decorate the green belts, casting a magical spell over the Federal Capital.

Along the green areas of Sector G-6 and Park Road, people from the city and visitors alike enjoy the beautiful view of these big trees in full bloom with shades of purple.

The short-lived beauty of the Jacaranda flowers, which lasts from April to June, has attracted many admirers who come to see the stunning display of nature’s beauty.

Talking about these special trees, a Capital Development Authority (CDA) official said Jacarandas needed regular care to stay healthy and look good.

“It’s important to prune them often to keep them healthy and prevent branches from falling.”

He also talked about the challenge of cleaning up the fallen flowers, which can make the streets and sidewalks messy and slippery.

Even though there are some challenges in taking care of these trees, residents love seeing the blooming Jacarandas.

A local resident said that taking a morning walk seeing the blooming Jacaranda trees was a delightful experience.

Another citizen expressed similar sentiments, saying that the vibrant blooms enhanced the overall beauty of the city.

Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Khazar Farhadov calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

Zia Ur Rehman

Thu, 2 May 2024, 9:57 PM

Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Khazar Farhadov calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif

Zia Ur Rehman

Thu, 2 May 2024, 9:56 PM

PM for enhancing bilateral cooperation with Azerbaijan in various areas

Najam ul Hassan

Thu, 2 May 2024, 9:28 PM

WhatsApp Image 2024-05-02 at 9.09.10 PM — Islamabad: Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan Amb. Khazar Farhadov calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on 2 May, 2024.

ISLAMABAD, May 2 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday stressed the need to work together with Azerbaijan to enhance trade and investment, energy cooperation, defence, connectivity, education and cultural exchanges, and people to people contact.

The prime minister said that he intended to send a high level ministerial delegation to Baku to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Pakistan is also prepared to convene the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Joint Commission meeting at an early date where both sides could discuss matters related to cooperation in various fields, the prime minister said while talking to the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov who called on him here.

The ambassador briefed the prime minister on the current state of bilateral relations, highlighting the recent inauguration of flights between Baku and Karachi, in addition to the flights already operating between Baku and Islamabad as well as Baku and Lahore.

He informed that the Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan is also expected to visit Pakistan later this month. He also briefed the prime minister on the various institutional mechanisms and their upcoming meetings later this year.

While admiring the beauty of the city of Baku, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that he wanted to replicate the beautification of Baku in Islamabad and suggested that both cities could explore enhanced cooperation through sister city agreement among them.

He emphasized that Pakistan attached great importance to Azerbaijan and the two countries enjoyed excellent brotherly relations. He conveyed his greetings for President Ilham Aliyev and fondly recalled their telephone conversation on Eid ul Fitr.

He also recalled his interactions with the leadership of Azerbaijan during his visit to Baku in June 2023 and reiterated his invitation to President Aliyev to undertake an official visit to Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

The prime minister congratulated Azerbaijan on being selected as the host city for the COP 29 Summit meeting that will be held in November 2024 and said he looked forward to receiving the Minister of Ecology of Azerbaijan next week, who will be carrying the formal invitation letter of the Azeri President for the COP 29 meeting.

He said that Pakistan wanted to enhance its fraternal relations with Azerbaijan and also looked forward to the visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Islamabad soon.

CM Bugti directs to start work of South Balochistan’s pending development package

NNPS Desk

Thu, 2 May 2024, 8:59 PM

QUETTA, May 02 (APP): Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti on Thursday directed that the implementation of the pending development package of South Balochistan should be ensured after removing obstacle of the project and its work would be started in the next three weeks.

He expressed these views while presiding over the review meeting on the implementation of Southern Balochistan Development Package here.

In the meeting, a briefing was given by the officials regarding the projects of providing basic facilities including education, health, means of communication, irrigation, drinking water etc. under the package.

Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti said that implementation of the proposed package would be ensured to include the backward areas of South Balochistan in the stream of development. Due to the insurgency, the southern regions of the province remained backward, but the civil and military leadership is trying to provide basic facilities to the people of southern Balochistan, he said.

He also instructed that the implementation of the pending development package of South Balochistan should be ensured after addressing hindrance of the project and its the work would be launched in the next three weeks.
High quality of work in development projects should be maintained at all times. The Chief Minister’s Inspection Team (CMIT) will visit the projects from time to time to review the quality, he instructed.

The chief minister said that the completion of Southern Balochistan projects would increase public confidence in the area and to implement the sponsored projects included in the package saying that the government of Balochistan and FWO should sign an agreement for the relevant sector soon.

He said that a meeting would be held with the Prime Minister for the provision of funds as per the commitment made by the federation for this package adding that this delegation could also include members of assembly from South Balochistan.
The CM also expressed his anger over the non-participation of the Irrigation Secretary in the meeting and ordered to Chief Secretary Balochistan to take action against him.

He said that the nature of the forum and the importance of the issues were not taken seriously, it was important to keep in mind the sanctity of the forum in this meeting.

The meeting was attended by provincial ministers including Mir Zahoor Ahmad Buledi, Mir Saleem Khan Khosa, Members of Provincial Assembly (MPAs) Maulana Hidayat-ur Rehman, Rehmat Saleh Baloch, Mir Barkat Rind, Mir Asghar Rind, Khair Jan Baloch, Meena Baloch, Balochistan Government Spokesperson Shahid Rind, Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary Development and Planning Abdul Saboor Kakar, Principal Secretary Imran Zarkoon, Special Secretary Asfandyar Baloch Secretaries Government of Balochistan Qamber Dashti, Babar Khan, Mohammad Tayyab Lahri, Zafar Buledi and Senior Project Coordinator Shahzad Hassan Jafar and other concerned officials.

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Associated Press Of Pakistan

Pakistan hockey team reach Malaysia for Azlan Shah Tournament

Hasan Ali recalled, Salman Agha, Haris Rauf back for Ireland, England T20Is

ADB delegation visits FBR

Govt. expects to generate Rs30bn in first year implementation of forest administration policy

Ambassador Amna for enhanced collaboration between Pak, Belgian varsities

Jacaranda flowers bring natural beauty to Capital

Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Khazar Farhadov calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Khazar Farhadov calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif

PM for enhancing bilateral cooperation with Azerbaijan in various areas

CM Bugti directs to start work of South Balochistan’s pending development package

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