The Destination Issue 30 Vol 1

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Ramadan 14 1468 AH.

Political stability guarantees sustained, inclusive economic growth: Ahsan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said that political stability is imperative for sustained and inclusive growth in the country.

In an interview, he said, “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan is making rapid progress in every sector.” Ahsan Iqbal said, “Several energy projects are underway to meet growing demand of electricity in the country.”

KP govt to construct hydel power station in Upper Dir The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to construct a hydel power station at Darora in Upper Dir. A spokesman of the provincial government said, “The power station will be constructed on River Panjkora. It will be completed at a cost of Rs3.7 billion by 2020.” He said, “The power station on completion will generate one hundred and fifty megawatt electricity. Feasibility study of the project has already been completed.”

No load shedding to be carried out at commercial markets: K-lectric Representatives of K-Electric have assured the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) that no load shedding will be carried out at the Commercial Markets and Bazaars of the city during the remaining days of Ramazan ul Mubarak. Exchanging views with KCCI Office Bearers and Managing Committee members during their visit to Karachi Chamber, K-Electric representatives added that as the peak shopping season has just begun, K-Electric will make all out efforts to make sure that people carry out their shopping for Eid-ul-Fitr in a pleasant environment without complaining about K-Electric.

HCBA urges UNHRC to send a fact-finding team to IOK The High Court Bar Association (HCBA) in occupied Kashmir has strongly condemned the recent killing of a student, Adil Farooq Magray, in the unprovoked firing of Indian troops on peaceful protesters at Ganapora in Shopian district. The HCBA spokesman in a statement issued in Srinagar said, the Bar Association also condemns the use of indiscriminate force against peacefully protesting students in Pampore and Awantipora areas against Adil’s killing. The Bar Association also expresses its serious concern over the fake encounters taking place in the border areas of the Kashmir Valley in which Indian Army is killing people by labeling them as militants, he said. He appealed to the UN Human Rights Council to send a fact-finding mission to occupied Kashmir immediately to ascertain truth about these encounters Pak istan signs BEPS agreement for automat ic exchange of information On behalf of the Government of Pakistan, Ambassador Moinul-Haq signed OECD’s for the Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related measures to Prevent BEPS at OECD Headquarters, Paris.

Around 70 countries simultaneously signed this Convention today in the OECD Centre in the presence of Secretary General OECD Angel Gurria.

Speaking after the ceremony, the Ambassador said, “Pakistan now will be part of global efforts to develop solutions to close the gaps in tax treaties that allow corporate profits to be artificially shifted to low or no tax jurisdictions.

Pakistan becomes permanent member of SCO PM Nawaz thanks SCO for permanent membership

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Pak will continue gas agreement with Qatar: Shahid Khaqan ISLAMABAD —Federal Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said that gas agreement with Qatar will be continued despite recent clash between Arab countries.

The Minister said, “The project will be completed without any interruption.

No country can affect the

agreement at any cost as it’s a private and mutual matter of two countries and no one should have any issue with it.”

It is to be mentioned here that an agreement worth $1 billion was signed about one year ago according to which, Qatar will provide gas to Pakistan from 2016 to 2031.

Saudi Arabia and the United

A rab Em i rates ( UA E) accused Qatar of funding several terrorist networks and banned terrorist groups.

However, Qatar denied the allegations and said that it would not compromise its sovereignty over foreign policy to resolve the region’s biggest diplomatic crisis in years.

Pakistan calls for criteria-based approach for membership of nuclear supplier groups

Pr ime Minster Nawaz Shar if an nounces that today is a historical day for Pakistan as it becomes a full member in Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

While addressing the SCO’s heads of council meeting today, he said “I am thankful to member countries for giving Pakistan permanent membership to the body.”

PM said, “”The SCO goals resonate with Pakistan’s

national ethos, and so do the core values of the Shanghai spirit and the SCO charter with our own quest for peaceful neighbourhood.”

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said, “As leaders, we should leave a legacy of peace and amity for our future generations, not a toxic harvest of conflict and animosity. Instead of talking about counter-weights and containment, let us

create shared spaces for all.”

Regarding terrorism PM said, “Pakistan has made many sacrifices in the war on terror. We will make sure of eliminating terrorism.

CPEC has provided paths for this region to develop and progress.”

PM Nawaz Sharif congratulated the Indian Prime Minister for becoming a member of SCO also.

Su m mit of the Heads

of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) began at Kazakh capital Astana.

Earlier, Nawaz Sharif held a meeting with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Astana on side-lines of the SCO summit and discussed the bilateral relations.

Advisor to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz was also present during the meeting.

China, Russia agree to maintain regional security, stability through SCO’s promotion

China and Russia have agreed to maintain regional security and stability through promoting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s influence in the international and regional affairs.

The agreement came after a meeting between Chinese

President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart, V la d i m i r P ut i n a hea d of the SCO summit in Kazakhstan. Both head of states pledged to promote the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Chinese President urged

the SCO to play a bigger role in Afghanistan’s peace and reconciliation process.

The two heads of state also exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and on the Korean Peninsula, as well as on other international and regional issues.

Pakistan and Sweden have agreed to enhance cooperation at the United Nations and other multilateral international fora. The resolve was expressed during deliberations made at 15th round of Pakistan-Sweden Bilateral Political Consultations in Swedish capital Stockholm.

Cecilia Ruthstrom-Ruin.

The forum reviewed entire spectrum of bilateral relations and identified opportunities in spheres of trade, economy, investment, culture, education, Information Technology and telecommunications and parliamentary exchanges.

The two sides discussed inter national issues of mutual interest and deliberated upon means and ways for peace and security environments in their respective regions.

The Pakistani side briefed the Swedish delegation on

Pakistan’s credentials for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, while emphasizing the need for a criteria-based, non-discriminatory approach towards new non-N PT member states. Pakistan’s policy of “peaceful neighbourhood” and Indian atrocities and human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir were also highlighted. It was decided that these consultations would be held on a regular basis with the next round scheduled in Islamabad next year.

Pakistan calls for criteria-based approach for membership of nuclear supplier groups

The Pakistani delegation was led by Additional Secretary ( Eu r o p e) A mb a s s a d o r Zaheer Janjua while the Swedish side was led by Deputy Director General and Head of Department for Asia and Oceania Ambassador

Pakistan and Sweden have agreed to enhance cooperation at the United Nations and other multilateral international fora. The resolve was expressed during deliberations made at 15th round of Pakistan-Sweden Bilateral Political Consultations in Swedish capital Stockholm.

The Pakistani delegation was led by Additional Secretary (Europe) Ambassador Zaheer Janjua while the Swedish side was led by Deputy Director General and Head of Department for Asia and Oceania Ambassador Cecilia Ruthstrom-Ruin.

The forum reviewed entire spectrum of bilateral relations and identified opportunities in spheres of trade, economy, investment, culture, education, Information Technology and telecommunications and

parliamentary exchanges.

The two sides discussed international issues of mutual interest and deliberated upon means and ways for peace and security environments in their respective regions.

The Pakistani side briefed the Swedish delegation on Pakistan’s credentials for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, wh ile emphasi zi ng t he need for a criteria-based,

non-discriminatory approach towards new non-NPT member states.

Pakistan’s policy of “peaceful neighbourhood” and Indian atrocities and human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir were also highlighted.

It was decided that these consultations would be held on a regular basis with the next round scheduled in Islamabad next year.

2 Saturday - June 10, 2017

THE DESTINATION

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL PHOTO OF THE DAY

ADB to provide over $86m loan for Pehur High Canal Extension Project in KP Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide 86.405 million dollars loan for Pehur High Canal Extension Project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. An agreement to this effect was signed between Pakistan and ADB in Islamabad on Friday.

Secretary Economic Affairs Division Tariq Pasha and Cou nt r y Director A DB Xiaohong Yang signed the agreement.

According to agreement, 20 water courses will be

constructed in Janda BokaMalikabad and 86 water courses in Indus Amber area of KPK. The Project will be completed by June 2023. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, who also witnessed the signing ceremony, said full assistance is also providing to provinces to complete their on-going projects.

The Trango Towers are a family of rock towers situated in Gilgit-Baltistan, in the north of Pakistan. The Towers offer some of the largest cliffs and most challenging rock climbing in the world, and every year a number of expeditions from all corners of the globe visit Karakoram to climb the difficult granite.

Banning of Mercury A meeting of National Coordination Committee on Minamata Convention held at Ministry of Climate Change to discuss the pros cons of ratification of this convention

by Pakistan.

Dr. Zaigham on Minamata Convention gave a briefing to the participants. He briefed the participants this convention is related to banning of Mercury. Mercury is recognized as substance producing significant neurological and other effects, with concerns expressed particularly about the effects on unborn children and infants. The global transport of mercury in the environment was a key reason for taking the decision that global action to address the problem of mercury pollution in the environment required .In January 2013, the inter governmental negotiating committee concluded its fifth session by agreeing to the text of the Minamata Convention on Mercury. The objective of the convention is to protect the human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and release of mercury and mercury compounds and includes a range of measure to meet that objective. Pakistan

signed the convention on 10th October 2013 at Kumamoto, Japan but has not ratified yet.

Today, 128 countries have signed and 55 have ratified it.

It was also informed by the Dr. Zaigham that one significant achievement of Pakistan in reducing mercury use is Import Policy 2016.Under this policy an approval is required by Ministry of Climate Change for import of Mercury and its products.

He also highlighted that awareness material has been developed for dental clinics and created public awareness through radio program.

It was discussed in the meeting the cost and benefits of ratification of Minamata Convention. Pakistan get funding if it ratifies this convention. The drawback of this funding is that Green Environment Facility (GEF) supports it but in this funding less amount shall be paid by Green Environment Facility and more by the countries. This convention has stringent rules that shall be binding on Pakistan. This convention talks about scaling down mercury from products before 2020 and phasing out till 2025.It also binds the countries who ratify it to

British PM loses majority, faces pressure to resign

phase out mercury within 10 years on existing coal plants and within five years for new plants.

The negative health effects of mercury were also considered most dangerous which are caused by use of mercury in food storage, contamination of soil and air with mercury and dental treatment. The representatives of Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage to help in developing awareness material in the form of some documentary or using public service message free time on

electronic media.

The Secretary Ministry of Climate Change decided to write to all stakeholders that an inventory would be formulated with the advantages and disadvantages. All stakeholders must give their input on pros and cons associated with this convention. The meeting was attended by representatives from provincial Environmental Protection Agencies, relevant federal ministries, departments, academia and other stakeholders.

Sikh pilgrims stage protest as India stops them at Attari station LAHORE—Sikh pilgrims failed to arrive in Lahore to attend the ten-day Jorr Mela held to mark martyrdom of Arjun Dev Jee, after Indian authorities stopped them at Attari Railway Station.

At least 96 of the Sikh pilgrims were issued visas of special train by Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi, however; when they reached Attari Railway Station Indian authorities refused to permit them to travel while describing the reason that the pilgrims were lesser in number therefore;

they cannot be sent via the special train.

Responding to the situation, Pakistan sent Samjhota Express to Attari Station but met with resistance once again and returned empty as the Indian authorities adopted stance that the pilgrims have been issued visas of special train and not Samjhota Express.

The pilgrims strongly protested against the action of Indian authorities at the station. Later, at least 14 of them arrived in Pakistan via Wagah border and were

warmly received by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) officials.

Following the schedule, the pilgrims departed for Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal, by a special bus under tight security.

They will stay in Lahore till June 9 and will then travel to Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib on June 10 by special train.

After two days, the pilgrims will visit Gurdwara Sacha Soda Farooqabad and will return to Nankana Sahib afterwards. Next day, the

special train will take them to Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore where they will attend the main ceremony on June 16 at 8 am.

Accordingly, the Sikh pilgrims will return to India on June 17 from Wagah railway station. While talking to media, the pilgrims termed Pakistan as their ‘second home’. They asserted that no one can prevent them from visiting Pakistan as they will keep on coming in the country which is the land of their Gurus.

Erdogan approves Turkish troops deployment to Qatar

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has approved legislation for increased military cooperation with Qatar, including a deal for the deployment of Turkish troops there. Government officials said that legislation was rapidly passed in parliament; a day after Erdogan openly sided with Qatar and criticized other Gulf countries’ moves to isolate it. The move is a sign of support for the Gulf state in its dispute with its regional neighbors.

LONDON—British Prime Minister Theresa May faced pressure to resign on Friday after losing her parliamentary majority, plunging the country into uncertainty as Brexit talks loom. The pound fell sharply amid fears the Conservative leader will be unable to form a government and could even be forced out of office after a troubled campaign overshadowed by two terror attacks.

After being re-elected with an increased majority in the London commuter seat of Maidenhead, May said Britain “needs a period of stability” as it prepares for the complicated process of withdrawing from the European Union.

She said that while the full results had yet to emerge, her party seemed to have won the most seats and “it would be incumbent on us to ensure we have that period of stability”. But Leftist opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn, whose Labour party surged from 20 points behind, urged May to quit, saying she had “lost votes, lost support and lost confidence”. Former Conservative minister Anna Soubry, who just held onto her seat, said May was “in a very difficult place” following a “dreadful campaign”.

With a handful of seats

still to be declared, the Conservatives were predicted to win 319 seats, down from 331 in 2015 — yet another upset in a turbulent year since the EU referendum in June 2016.

They were mathematically unable to reach the 326 mark that would give them a majority, meaning they will have to form an informal or formal alliance to forward their agenda. Labour are expected to increase their share from 229 to 260 seats, resulting in a hung parliament.

May, a 60-year-old vicar’s daughter, is now facing questions over her judgement in calling the election three years early and risking her party’s slim but stable majority of 17. “It is exactly the opposite of why she held the election and she then has to go and negotiate Brexit in that weakened position,” said Professor Tony Travers of the London School of Economics.

Sterling fell nearly two percent against the dollar on the back of the exit poll, as investors questioned who was now going to control the Brexit process. Early newspaper editions reflected the drama, with headlines such as “Britain on a knife edge”, “Mayhem” and “Hanging by a thread”.

In a night that threatened to redraw the political landscape once again, the UK Independence Party (UKIP), which won 12.5 percent of the vote two years ago and was a driving force behind the Brexit vote, was all but wiped out, hovering around two percent. The pro-European Liberal Democrats, who have campaigned for a second EU referendum, increased their number of seats from nine, but their former leader Nick

Clegg lost his seat.

Meanwhile the Scottish National Par t y of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, which has dominated politics north of the border for a decade and called for a new independence vote after Brexit, was tipped to lose around 21 of its 54 seats. Deputy leader Angus Robertson, one of the strongest SNP performers in the House of Commons, was an early casualty.—DNA

A meeting was held between Federal Minister for Climate Change Zahid Hamid and World Bank delegation and discussed cooperation on Green Pakistan Program.

Federal Minister for climate Change Change Zahid Hmaid informed the delegation that New Forest Policy has been approved by Council of Common Interest and endorsed by provinces as well. We are also declaring Marine Protected areas in Pakistan.

Mr. Jiang Ru from World Bank discussed the financing option and institutional ar rangements for Green Pak ist an Prog ram with the Federal Minister. He informed the Minister that mission is willing to support in financing for initiatives

related to livelihood improvements under Green Pakistan Program in Punjab and K hyber Pak htoon k hawa provinces initially. He also highlighted that mission would the bank can provide support for capacity building at national level through Ministry of Climate Change.

A minimum loan of 100 million US dollars. Besides that the bank will also explore possibility of seeking grant from green Climate fund and Green Environment Facility.

He also told the Minister that their focus would be on Forest Resilient infrastructure, landscape management and forestry &economic management. It was also suggested by the Mr. Jiang that Ministry of climate Change should provide some sort of

incentives to provinces to increase their forest cover.

He also told the minister that World Bank is also working on a project on watershed Management in Baluchistan.

Mr. Rizwan Mehboob Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Green Pakistan Program also briefed the Minister that when Prime Minister of Pakistan approved Green Pakistan Program, also said to discover additional funding for this project from international donor agencies. In this regard Secretary M i n ist r y of Cl i mat e Change requested Secretary Economic Affairs Division to help in exploring financing of different components of program, especially in the areas of policy measures and capacity building. He further

added that on the request of Economic Affairs Division, a scoping mission of World Bank visited Pakistan and held meetings with representatives of Punjab and Khyber Pukhtoonkhawa forest departments and secretary Ministry of Climate Change.

The meeting was attended

by Ms. Rahat Jabeen environmentalist Expert, Mr. Rajesh expert on REDD Plus Project, Secretary Ministry of Climate Change Syed Abu Ahmed Akif, Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Climate Change Mr. Rizwan Mehboob, Director General Environment Mr. Irfan Tariq, Inspector General Forest Syed Mehmood Nasir.

New forest policy has been endorsed by provinces, Zahid Hamid

THE DESTINATION

Saturday - June 10, 2017

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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL The economic growth of Turkmenistan is carried out on the basis of the national and state programs for short and long term periods.

Today, Turkmenistan has the diversified, multifunctional economy presented by enterprises of power industry, oil and gas production, oil-processing, chemical and petrochemical field, mechanical engineering and metal-processing, objects for producing building materials, light and food industry.

The growth rate of Turkmenistan’s GDP made up 10,2% in the year 2013 as compared to 2012. The growth volume of industrial production accounted for 7,3%. In comparison with the previous period the growth rate of investments equaled to 7,1%, the size of wages amounted to 11%. At present, in the country, under the leadership of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, grandiose reform us are under way in the framework of the national and state programs, which are aimed at the diversification of the national economy and at the achievement of innovative character.

In this context, traditional sectors have considerably grown over the recent years: oil and gas complex, power engineering, agriculture, construction, transport and communications.

At the same time, a lot of work is being carried out for the formation of new sectors of the economy: chemical, textile and building materials industries, telecommunications and other high-tech spheres. Special programs have been worked out such as the “National program for socio-economic development of the country for 2012-2016.” They are targeted at the further enhancement of the above named branches for medium-term prospect. Turkmenistan actively develops its foreign economic relations with other countries. Today Turkmenistan has established trade relations with 103 countries of the world. Presently, Turkmenistan has trade relations with 103 states. In 2012, the growth of the foreign trade turnover accounted for 102%. The total volume of hydrocarbon resources amount to 45.44 billion tons of oil equivalent. In 2012 Turkmenistan produced more than 69 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 11 million tons of oil. The Program on the development of oil and gas complex of Turkmenistan stipulates the increase of gas production up to 250 billion cubic meters, and oil – 110 million tons by the year 2030.

Possessing by more than 24 trillion cubic meters proven reserves of natural gas, as well as taking into account the peculiarities of the geographical location, Turkmenistan implements the policy of diversification of its international cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, on the basis of an equal partner access to the sources of Turkmen hydrocarbons and their means of delivery. This involves the creation of multivariate transportation pipeline infrastructure on the conclusion of Turkmen energy resources to international energy markets.

Following this, the country along with the traditional routes, in 2009, implemented two new major projects of exporting its energy resources to the world market: the gas pipeline ChinaTurkmenistan and the second gas pipeline Turkmenistan-Iran. The country together with its partners launched its gas pipeline on the route of Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India.

Turkmenistan is highly interested in the projects on export of its energy to the European direction.

Along with the geographical diversification, the structural diversification of the energy sector of Turkmenistan is being gradually implemented through the creation of new, primarily, process industries, based on hydrocarbon raw material.

Turkmenistan believes that the joint implementation of international transport projects in Central Asia and the Caspian basin are also important, taking into account the unique geographical location in the region.

The power system of Turkmenistan is associated with the combined power system of Central Asia and is capable of exporting large amounts of electricity to Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, Tajikistan and other countries in the region. The potential of the energy industry in the country is constantly increasing: the construction of new power plants and power lines, the reconstruction and modernization of existing power facilities. In accordance with the Presidential Decree as of February 25, 2011,the construction of high voltage overhead power lines and substation complex began in Lebap and Mary provinces, as well as the reconstruction of existing substations and spare parts for power plants. Upon the completion of

Rana Tahir Shahbaz

Publishing Editor: Rana Tahir Shahbaz Editor: Tayyaba Imran Contact #: 051-8314196 Fax#: 051-8315196 Mob#: 0300-8503803, 0347-5959747 www.thedestination.com.pk info@thedestination.com.pk

Economy of Uzbekistan these works, Turkmenistan will be able to increase the export of electricity to Afghanistan five times. The capacity will also allow exporting electricity to Pakistan and Tajikistan.

Turkmenistan has great opportunities for the development of different sectors of chemical and petrochemical industries, including the use of resources of already developed fields and industrial development of new deposits of chemical raw stock.

In 2009, the construction of ore-dressing and processing complex were launched on the outskirts of Garlyk settlement in Lebap province, where a range of deposits of potassium salts were opened in the ore-mining region GaurdakKoytendag. The construction of a mining complex on the production of potash fertilizers, per se, symbolizes the birth of new mining branch for the Turkmen economy, based on the vast resource base. Thus, Garlyk deposit of potassium salts is capable to produce fertilizers in the volume of 1-1.5 million tons annually and in the future that figure will reach up to 4 millions. The cost of the first stage of the complex is about 1 billion USD. Turkmenistan attaches great importance to the development of transport and communication system (railways and roads, sea and river ports, pipelines) as an essential part of infrastructure for the sustainable development of the country’s economy. Large-scale international projects in the transport sector initiated by President GurbangulyBerdimuhamedov are aimed to give a significant boost to regional and interregional economic cooperation. In this context, the construction of the railway Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran is relevant and economically viable. In 2010, there was the detailed consideration of the Turkmen initiative on the creation of the transport corridor from Central Asia to the countries of the Persian Gulf. The ceremony of the commissioning of the Turkmenistan-Kazakhstan part of the railway KazakhstanTurkmenistan-Iran took place on May, 2013.

At present, the length of railways in Turkmenistan is 3,080 miles. Over the years of independence, it has increased by

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Football: Rogic’s strike reignites Australian World Cup bid A spectacular long-range strike from Tom Rogic delivered Australia a crucial 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia on Thursday to stay on track for next year’s World Cup finals in Russia. The stylish midfielder reprised his matchwinning exploits for Celtic in last month’s Scottish Cup final when he scored the Socceroos’ winner in the 64th minute.

The Australians joined Japan and Saudi Arabia at the top of Asia Group B with their vital win after twice relinquishing the lead to the skilful Saudis in Adelaide. The Socceroos, who have qualified for last three editions of the World Cup, now face a huge game against Japan in Saitama on August 31. “We made it a little difficult for ourselves in the first half but we showed our quality and limited their chances in the second half and went on for the win,” Rogic said.

“I thought the goal was coming. We started to get on top in the second half and I just wanted to get the boys on the right way and to get the win which was the most important thing.” Swiss-based striker Tomi Juric twice

gave the Socceroos the lead in the first half but both times the Saudis fought back to be level at 2-2 at half-time. The Socceroos were given a giftwrapped opener when goalkeeper Yasser Al-Mosailem slipped and his clearing kick went straight to Juric, who found the an empty net after seven minutes.

But the Saudis threatened with their slick passing and running off the ball and equalised through Salem Al Dawsari, who finished well off a neat give-and-go with Mohammed Al Sahlawi in the 23rd minute.

The Australians could hardly string a pass together but

somehow regained the lead with Juric’s second goal off a flicked header from James Leckie’s cross from the by-line.

But the Saudis rocked the home side with another equaliser deep in first-half stoppage time, when Taiseer Al Jassam’s controlled header across goal was fired home

by Al Sahlawi. Australia coach Ange Postecoglou reacted by bringing on Aziz Behich for left-back Brad Smith at the start of the second half.

Robbie K r use replaced Jackson Irvine just before Australia grabbed the lead for a third time with Rogic’s

scintillating, left-foot piled r iver on 6 4 m i nutes.

Australia had a big shout for a penalty when Salman Al Faraj appeared to take out Leckie in the goal area, but it was waved away by the referee. The Socceroos controlled the second half and protected their lead to the final whistle. The top two teams in the group will progress to Russia 2018 with the third-placed nation forced into play-offs. Saudi Arabia have not made an appearance at a World Cup since Germany in 2006, and Japan have a game in hand.

96 Sikh pilgrims given visa to visit Pakistan Indian Sikh pilgrims were visiting Pakistan via the Wagha Railway Station The Pakistan High Commission here has issued visas to 96 Sikh pilgrims to visit Pakistan to participate in events to mark the 411th death anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, a statement said. The Sikh pilgrims are visiting Pakistan on the occasion of Martyrdom Day (Shahidi Purab) of Guru Arjan Dev Ji from June 8 to 17, a Pakistan High Commission statement said. Indian Sikh pilgrims were visiting Pakistan via the Wagha Railway Station on Thursday to take part in the events to mark the 411th

death anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth of the 11 Sikh gurus. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (BTPB) Chair man Mu ham mad Siddiqul Farooq, board officials and Sikh leaders were to receive the pilgrims at Wahga Railway Station.

After arrival, the Sikh pilgrims would leave for Gurdwara Punja Sahib, Hassanabad, and stay there for two days and perform their religious rituals.

They would go to Gurdwara Janum Asthan Nankana Sahib on June 9 where they will

stay for three days. Then they will leave for Sucha Sauda, Farooqabad, on June 12. On the same day, the pilgrims will return to Nankana Sahib. They will go to Gurdwara Dera

Sahib in Lahore on June 13 by special train. The main function will be held at Lahore at Gurdwara Dera Sahib on June 16. They will return to India on June 17.

900 kilometers. New railway lines have been constructed: Tejen-Sarahs, TurkmenabatAtamurat, Dashoguz-Urgench, Ashgabat-Karakum-Dashoguz. Powerful economic potential leads to an annual increase in the volume of cargo transportation. In 2011 the volume of cargo transportation made up 104% as compared to the previous year. Turkmenistan is one of the largest international transit centers of railway transportation by the lines of “NorthSouth,” “West-East.” Radio relays lines and Trans-Asian-European fiber-optic communication line between Shanghai and Frankfurt were constructed; its length in the territory of Turkmenistan makes about 1400 kilometers. All settlements of Turkmenistan are provided with a stable connection.

The main objectives of the country’s agricultural sector is to meet food demands of population, provide processing industry with raw materials, increase production efficiency, form new economic relations and consistently strengthen food security.

Today Turkmenistan is fully self-sufficient in basic foodstuffs. In 2011 Turkmenistan became one of the grain exporting countries. 217,000 tons are set for sale, including 150 tons of wheat, and the rest - in the form of flour.

During the years of independence export-oriented textile industry with modern high-tech equipment was created in Turkmenistan, 60 textile complexes and enterprises with the most advanced and efficient equipment were built and commissioned into operation. This enabled to increase the refining capacity of cotton produced in the country from 3 to 55 percent. Between 1995 and 2010, the production of cotton yarn and cotton fabrics increased by 8 times. During the same period the export of textile products with a label “Made in Turkmenistan” increased by 29 times. Currently, about 80 percent of manufactured textile products are exported to the European Union, the USA, Canada, Russia, Turkey, Hungary, China, the Baltics, Ukraine and other countries.

The annual volume of products and industry output reached an average of $300 million dollars.

The investment activity of the economy has led to the rapid growth of the construction industry of Turkmenistan. In addition to large-scale public construction projects, industrial, recreational, cultural facilities, such as the creation of the Avaza National Tourist Zone,the large-scale construction of dwelling houses are being carried out within the National program for the reform of social and living conditions in villages, towns, cities, districts and etrap centers for the period up to 2020. Its main task is to create a high standard of living of the rural population, similar to urban, ensure balanced social development in all settlements of the country. Residential mortgage with the most favorable terms is extensively developed. (source: pakistan.tmembassy.gov.tm)

Qatar says it will not ‘surrender’ in Gulf row

DOH A— Qatar said Thursday it will not “surrender” and rejected any interference in its foreign policy, defying its Gulf neighbours in an escalating dispute over its alleged support for extremists.

In an interview with foreig n med ia agencies, Sheik h Moham med bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said calls for a change in Qatari policy from Saudi Arabia and its allies, which cut diplomatic ties with Doha this week, were unacceptable.

“No one has the right to intervene in our foreign policy,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

He also rejected “a military solution as an option” to resolving the crisis, and said Qatar could survive “forever” despite the measures taken against it.

“We are not ready to surrender, and will never be ready to surrender the independence of our foreign policy,” he told reporters later, adding: “No one will break us.”

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain led a string of countries that this week cut ties

with Qatar over what they say is the emirate´s financing of extremist groups and its ties to Iran, Saudi Arabia´s regional arch-rival.

On Thursday the four countries issued a list of individuals and entities they said had “terrorist” links to Qatar, in their first joint statement since severing ties with Doha. The group said the list shows Qatar “announces fighting terrorism on one hand and finances and supports and hosts different terrorist organisations on the other hand.”

But the document contains at least two names already designated internationally as terrorist financiers, and against whom Qatar took action, according to a previous US Department of State report.

Qatar strongly denied the earlier allegations and expressed a willingness to engage in talks to resolve the crisis. The gas-rich emirate´s satellite news giant has also emerged as a point of contention, and on Thursday the broadcaster said it was battling a major cyber attack.

Al-Jazeera tweeted that it

was “under cyber attack on all systems, websites & social media platforms”, and a source said it was trying to repel the hack. The UAE and Saudi Arabia have banned Al-Jazeera from the airwaves and closed the channel´s offices.

The Arab countries closed air, sea and land links with Qatar, barred the emirate´s planes from their airspace and ordered Qatari citizens out within 14 days. The feud has raised fears of wider instability in an already volatile region that is a crucial global energy supplier and home to several Western military bases. Kuwait — which unlike most of its fellow Gulf Cooperation Council members has not cut off ties with Qatar — has been leading efforts to mediate. Its emir Sheikh Sabah alAhmad Al-Sabah held talks on Wednesday with Qatari counterpart Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, following talks with senior UAE officials and Saudi King Salman.

US President Donald Trump, who had initially backed the

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measures against Qatar in a tweet, called Sheik Tamim on Wednesday with an offer “to help the parties resolve their differences”.

Qatar hosts the Al-Udeid military base, the largest US airbase in the Middle East.

Home to some 10,000 troops, it is central to the US-led fight against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria.

Analysts say the current crisis is in part an extension of a 2014 dispute, when Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain temporarily recalled their ambassadors from Doha over Qatari support for Egypt´s Muslim Brotherhood.

A top Gulf official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told foreign media agencies a major concern was the influence of Sheikh Tamim´s father, Sheikh Hamad, who had allowed the Taliban to open an office in Doha and helped arm Syrian rebels before abdicating in 2013.

“The previous emir is a big supporter of this whole extremist agenda, so we do have an issue,” the official said.

THE DESTINATION

4 Saturday - June 10, 2017

Nawaz meets Ghani on sidelines of SCO summit ASTANA: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif held a meeting with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Astana on sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit yesterday.

Both sides discussed the bilateral relations and regional situation, according to reports.

Advisor to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz was also present at the meeting.

Earlier yesterday, Pr ime Minister Nawaz Sharif met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi at a cult u ral gala held in Kazakhstan Capital Astana where the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

Summit is taking place. After Modi’s sudden stopover in Lahore in December 2015, this is the first time the Indian PM and Sharif have met.

In its first-ever expansion, the SCO will grant permanent membership to both India and Pakistan. The 2005 Astana Summit granted India, Iran and Pakistan the roles of observers.

The SCO was founded in Shanghai in 2001 by then presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

While Russia had been backing I ndia’s membership, China pushed for Pakistan’s induction.

Balochistan govt taking practical steps for promotion of communications in neglected areas Metaled road via Dargai to Shabozai and Tunsa Sharif is being constructed at a cost of over Rs1918mn.

Balochistan government is taking practical steps for promotion of communications in neglected areas of the province. An official of Provincial Communications Department

told our Quetta correspondent that a metaled road via Dargai to Shabozai and Tunsa Sharif is being constructed at a cost of over 1918 million rupees.

Likewise, construction of a

bridge on Pat Feeder Canal in Gopat area of Naseerabad district is also to be completed at a cost of forty-nine million rupees.

Philippine war refugees facing deadly health risks The onset of the rainy season could worsen the situation, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned as it said it had already observed a spike in diarrhoea, respiratory illnesses and other ailments. “The health situation is not yet critical at this point, but we fear that this may worsen in the coming days with prolonged displacement,” said Jose Amigo, health coordinator for the ICRC in the Philippines. About 240,000 people have been displaced by the fighting in Marawi, according to the government.

The unrest began more than two weeks ago when hundreds of militants rampaged through the city waving black flags of the Islamic State (IS) group.

President Rodrigo Duterte said the attack was part of a wider plot by IS to establish a base in the southern region

of Mindanao, and declared martial law there to quell the threat.

Twenty civilians have been confirmed killed due to the fighting, according to the government, but the true number is likely to be higher with authorities yet to fully assess the roughly 10% of Marawi still being held by the militants.

About 2,000 people are also believed to still be trapped in those areas with some being used as human shields, according to authorities.

Meanwhile, about 90% of the evacuees have sought shelter in the homes of relatives and friends rather than evacuation centres, according to government data, and aid workers have not been able to help all of them.

Among those staying with friends and relatives was

Emmalyn Macababayao, 37, who told AFP her one-yearold son died after getting sick during a six-day ordeal to escape Marawi.

“While fleeing I held on tight to my elder son with my left hand while the other was breastfeeding,” Macababayao said as she began to cry. “The baby that time felt so hungry.

It was raining so hard, we all got wet. It was a long walk, I was just crying, feeling helpless and in despair. But I kept holding tight to my children.

I felt so afraid ... I was alone.”

She said her son died three days after reaching a relative’s house, after not being able to get medical treatment for a fever and diarrhoea.

The Philippine military said Friday it hoped to defeat the militants by Monday, which is independence day.

ICJ president meets Pakistani and Indian delegations A meeting took place yesterday between the President of the International Court of Justice, Mr. Ronny Abraham, and the delegations of India and Pakistan to discuss the timelines in the Commander Jadhav case. The Registrar of the Court and other court officials were also present in the meeting. This was not a hearing and no discussion on the substance or merits of the case took place. The purpose of the meeting was only to discuss procedural matters including the time-lines for submission of written Memorials and to enable a hearing to be listed.

The delegation of Pakistan was led by the Mr. Ashtar Ausaf Ali, the Attor ney General for Pakistan. Other members of the delegation included Dr. Mohammad Faisal, Director General for South Asia in the Ministry of Foreig n Affairs, M r.

Ahmad Irfan Aslam, Head of International Disputes Unit in the Office of the Attorney General, Mr. Khawar Qureshi QC, Counsel for Pakistan.

The President of the Court sought the views of the parties as to time required for the submission of their written pleadings and supporting evidence called Memorials.

The Attorney General urged the Court to adopt an expedited timetable with a view for an early substantive hearing.

The Court will announce the timetable shortly.

T h e At t o r n e y G e n e r a l informed the International Court of Justice of Pakistan’s intent to appoint a judge Ad Hoc who will sit on the bench of the Court for all proceedings in this case, including the substantive hearing. The Indian application seeks “at least release or acquittal” of Commander Jadhav. As

was made clear by Pakistan’s Counsel, Mr. Khawar Qureshi QC on 15 May 2017, India can never obtain this from the ICJ. As has also been explained previously, the Court on 18 May 2017 made a procedural order to enable a full hearing to take place. It did not make any finding on jurisdiction or merits. Pakistan’s arguments on jurisdiction and merits will be considered by the Court at the full hearing. As can be seen from paragraph 60 of the Court order of 18th May 2017 itself, the Court stated that that it “in no way prejudged jurisdiction, admissibility or merits”. The Government of Pakistan is fully confident that India can never succeed in its application. India can never obtain acquittal or release of Commander Jadhav on the basis of its application to the International Court.

Efforts underway to set up anticorruption department in GB: CM Says Anti corruption department will be empowered to investigate corruption cases up to fifty million rupees.

Chief Minister Hafiz Hafeez-urRehman says efforts are underway to set up anti-corruption department in Gilgit Baltistan to eliminate corruption and make the system transparent. Talking

to a delegation in Gilgit on Thursday, he said Anti corruption department will be empowered to investigate corruption cases up to fifty million rupees.

Turkey, EU, UNICEF start program to provide refugee children education

Tu rkish gover n ment, the European Union and the United Nations Child ren’s Fu nd (UNICEF) have started a program aiming to finance refugee children to get school education on Thursday in Turkish capital Ankara. Through the EU-fund program, families could receive conditional cash payments in return for sending and keeping their children in school. As many as 56,000 refugee children have been registered in the program since it was announced in Brussels in March. Authorities hope the number reach 230,000 by the end of the year. Turkey currently hosts over one million

school-aged refugee children, of which nearly 500,000 are enrolled schools and temporary education centers run by the Ministry of Education, Turkish Family and Social Policies Minister Betul Sayan Kaya said that at the ceremony.

She noted that, however, less than one-third of the three billion euros promised by the EU-Turkey migrant deal had been transferred to Turkey.

Turkey, a country hosting nearly 3 million refugees from its southern neighbor Syria, has tried to provide school education for refugee children by governmental authorities and international organizations.

KP govt to construct hydel power station in Upper Dir

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to construct a hydel power station at Darora in Upper Dir. A spokesman of the provincial government told our Peshawar correspondent that the power station will be constructed on

River Panjkora. It will be completed at a cost of three point seven billion rupees by 2020.

The power station on completion will generate one hundred and fifty megawatt electricity.

Feasibility study of the project has already been completed.