The Destination Issue 54 Vol 1

WEATHER ISLAMABAD Scattered Thunderstorms

ISLAMABAD ISSUE: 54 VOL: 1

32°C 89°F

Precipitation: 80% Humidity: 81% Wind: 21 km/h Thursday – July 13, 2017

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PAGES: 4 RS: 15/www.thedestination.com.pk

Shawal 18, 1438 AH.

US Embassy, Islamabad Club renew partnership to promote English language learning

US Embassy Islamabad and Islamabad Club officials on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to extend their support of the Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) Reading Room, a partnership to promote English language learning. First established in August 2009, the MLK Reading Room provides free access to English books, magazines, videos, as well as databases and scholarly journals for research, said a press release issued by US Embassy.

CPEC truly harbinger of economic development, peace in region: Army Chief

PIA decides to shun discretionary powers

Pakistan International Airline (PIA) has decided to shun down discretionary powers to allot business class seats to the favorite or influential passengers during Hajj flights as these seats will be allotted to senior citizens and agedpilgrims. By this decision, senior citizens could get benefits of extra facilities without additional charges instead of the influential people. It was decided in a high level meeting on Wednesday chaired by Advisor to PM on Aviation Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan for the current Hajj flight operation. The participants of the meeting deliberated over the suggestions given to improve facilities for the pilgrims during Hajj flights.

UNESCO-AIOU holds seminar to promote non-formal education A national seminar to launch certificate and diploma courses for teachers’ training was held in Islamabad on Wednesday to promote literacy and quality education in the country through non-formal education.

The two-day event has been arranged by the Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) in collaboration with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). It is a part of series of activities, undertaken by the University to meet future targets in the education sector through non-traditional mode of education.

China willing to play constructive role in i mprov i ng Ind iaPakistan relations Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang on Wednesday said that China is willing to play a constructive role in improving relations between India and Pakistan in wake of ongoing tensions between the two countries on the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. “The conflict is occurring near the LoC in Kashmir. This will not only harm the peace and stability of the two countries but also peace and tranquility of the region,” he said during his regular press briefing in Beijing when asked what role China could play to defuse tensions between Pakistan and India on Kashmir.

Malala example of bravery, courage for women: Shahbaz Malala has set an example of bravery and courage for women folks.

Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa says ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is truly a harbinger of economic development, peace, and prosperity in the region. Addressing a function on CPEC Logistics in Rawalpindi on Wednesday, he said CPEC is also affirmation of Pakistan’s efforts for a peaceful and prosperous region, reported by Radio Pakistan. He said

unlike some other countries of South Asia, we believe in focusing our energies on peace and inclusiveness, rather than divisive competition.

The Army Chief said CPEC will bring increasing economic integration among regional economies and reduce the development gap within various regions of Pakistan. He said Chinese investment in various fields,

including energy, infrastructure, Gwadar Port, and special economic zones can lay the foundation of a fast development Pakistan, if the opportunity is optimally utilized. Commenting on prevailing security situation in Pakistan, the Army Chief said the country is much safer today than before as peace has been restored in FATA and the adjoining areas. He said normalcy

is returning to Pakistan’s economic hub of Karachi.

Similarly, the law and order situation has improved significantly in Balochistan and there is great focus on socio-economic development in the province. The Army Chief said Pakistan is making steady, but surefooted progress to get rid of the menace of terrorism and extremism.

Pakistani IT developers hitting Int’l markets

ISLAMABAD —Pakistanbased IT companies are making their way towards international markets through their mobile applications and gaming apps. The IT companies which are involved in making creative and conceptual mobile games get the support of Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). PSEB added that there was need to increase the revenue of market by promoting gamin and animation at international level.

There are a lot number of companies which are working in Pakistan and are meeting the international standards. These companies include `Mindstorm

studios’, `GameView Studios’, `Pepper PK’ `TkXel’ and may more. One of Pakistani company `TkXel’ has introduced many of mobile applications and gaming companies by working at a lab of university at Lahore. Whereas Pakistan’s `Pepper Pk’ has a title for developing paid applications for BlackBerry and these applications have reached at the top rankings in BlackBerry’s World App store.

While others are famous for launching innovative games for iPhone, iPod and android phones. Games are also used by different Pakistani Companies and for infotainment and

educational purpose. Earlier Pakistan is famous for producing quality games. Now days the world’s most watched TV series `Games of Thrones’ has been produced by US-born Pakistani, Hameed Shaukat.

Additionally, worldwide recognized Cricket companion Application was developed

by Pakistani startup, Tricast Media.

Mir Zafar Ali, who is Pakistani Visual Effects Artist has wor ke d i n T he G old e n Compass, Life of Pi and Frozen and is honored by three Oscar awards for his work.

Novaira Masood is famous for animation and worked on

meeting the international standards. These companies include `Mindstorm studios’, `GameView Studios’, `Pepper PK’ `TkXel’ and may more.

One of Pakistani company `TkXel’ has introduced many of mobile applications and gaming companies by working at a lab of university at Lahore.

Whereas Pakistan’s `Pepper Pk’ has a title for developing paid applications for BlackBerry and these applications have reached at the top rankings in BlackBerry’s World App store.While others are famous for launching

innovative games for iPhone, iPod and android phones.

Games are also used by different Pakistani Companies and for infotainment and educational purpose. Earlier Pakistan is famous for producing quality games. Now days the world’s most watched TV series `Games of Thrones’ has been produced by US-born Pakistani, Hameed Shaukat.

Additionally, worldwide recognized Cricket companion Application was developed

by Pakistani startup, Tricast Media.Mir Zafar Ali, who is Pakistani Visual Effects Artist

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SAARC region holds immense trade and investment potential, Younus

Fe d e r a l S e c r e t a r y fo r Com merce, Moham mad Younus Dagha said this while chairing a meeting with the SAARC CCI led by its president Mr. Suraj Vaidya. Mohammad Younus Dagha expressed pleasure that establishment of SAARC CCI has provided a platform to the business communities of region for coming together and discussing the prospects of doing business together.

He highlighted that although SA A RC r e g i o n h ol d s immense trade and investment potential, being home to 21% of world’s population, it still remains one of the least integrated regional blocs with intra-regional trade constituting only 5% of the total world trade, in comparison to 51% for NAFTA and 25% for ASEAN. Secretary Commerce also

mentioned that SAFTA has fallen short of expectations due to complex safeguard measures and non-tariff bar riers ( NTBs) among SAARC member countries.

Mr. Younus Dagha stressed that special focus and effort is required for regional integration and removal of NTBs to boost regional trade and actualize the immense trade and investment potential present between the SAARC member states.

Secretary Commerce commended the efforts of the SAARC CCI for arranging the activities like SAARC Business Conclave and an Exhibition on the sidelines of every SAARC Summit.

“These activities are good for bringing business community together and promoting regional trade”, added Younus Dagha.

President SA A RC CCI, Mr. Suraj Vaidya updated Secretary Commerce on the progress made on the permanent headquarters building project at Islamabad and expressed gratitude for releasing of funds for the building and said that it will help in strengthening the capacity-building of the institution and state-of-art building of SAARC-CCI headquarters in Pakistan will help in image building of the country.

Mohammad Younus Dagha assured the delegation that Ministry of Commerce will provide full support to the SAARC CCI in achieving its objectives and hoped that SAARC CCI will continue to create business-friendly environment that helps businesses to succeed.

Major US companies show interest in investing in Kyrgyzstan

the effects of many popular movies of Hollywood including Maleficent, A Christmas Carol, Thor, Transformers 3 and Jack the Giant Slayer.

Laraib Atta is another emerging talent in Pakistan and is famous for her visual art and is also involved in visual effects of popular Hollywood flicks like X-men, Godzilla and gravity. Managing director of PSEB Asim Shehryar told that IT companies are facilitated with large number of projects and programmes to promote new technologies.

PSEB is also making efforts in providing space for work to IT companies.

Bangladesh will benefit enormously from the Belt, Road Initiative

ISLAMABAD—Pakistanbased IT companies are making their way towards international markets through their mobile applications and gaming apps. The IT companies which are involved in making creative and conceptual mobile games get the support of Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). PSEB added that there was need to increase the revenue of market by promoting gamin and animation at international level. There are a lot number of companies which are working in Pakistan and are

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has worked in The Golden Compass, Life of Pi and Frozen and is honored by three Oscar awards for his work.

Novaira Masood is famous for animation and worked on the effects of many popular movies of Hollywood including Maleficent, A Christmas Carol, Thor, Transformers 3 and Jack the Giant Slayer.

Laraib Atta is another emerging talent in Pakistan and is famous for her visual art and is also involved in visual effects of popular Hollywood flicks like X-men, Godzilla and gravity.

Bishkek—Kyrgyzstan PM Sooronbai Zheenbekov held talks with the delegation of the US trade mission headed by chairman of the US-Kyrgyz Business Council Thomas Firestone, the press service of the Kyrgyz Government reported. Zheenbekov assured that the government of the country welcomes American investors and takes measures to create the most attractive conditions for foreign investors. He also said that the US remains one of the important trade and investment partners of Kyrgyzstan. “The United States was one of the first to recognize the independence

of Kyrgyzstan. During these years our countries have achieved certain successes in their relations. We maintain close contacts at the state level, expand cooperation in the field of economy and investment,” Zheenbekov stressed.

In turn, chairman of the US-Kyrgyz Business Council Thomas Firestone emphasized mutual interest in the development of bilateral economic relations. This is evidenced by the first Kyrgyz-American business forum, which was opened on July 11 in Bishkek.

Firestone stressed that the US delegat ion i ncluded

representatives of the largest American companies. They have already shown interest in investing in the economy of Kyrgyzstan. In particular, at a meeting with the Prime Minister, major investment projects in the field of infrastructure, industry, and agriculture were discussed. The Prime Minister said that the country’s authorities are ready to develop mutually beneficial cooperation with US investors. The head of government also expressed hope that this meeting will give an impetus to economic cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and the United States.

2 Thursday- July 13, 2017

THE DESTINATION

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL PHOTO OF THE DAY

Arab quartet says U.S.-Qatari MoU to fight terror “not enough”

Ramkot Fort is an ancient fort situated in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan beside the Mangla Dam. It is accessible through boat, 13 kilometers away from Dina and 79 kilometers by road from Mirpur, to Dadyal town.

Trump congratulates Iraqi PM over Mosul victory

BAG H DA D — U. S .

President Donald Trump congratulated Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi for the victory achieved by the Iraqi forces that liberated the city of Mosul, the Iraqi government said. The statement released by Abadi’s office

said that the prime minister had received a phone call from Trump, who expressed his “respect and appreciation to the bravery of the Iraqi forces and their leadership.”

For his part, Abadi “hailed the international support for Iraq in its fighting against

the terrorism of Daesh (IS group), asserting the need to speed up the liberation of the remaining Iraqi territories to eradicate the gangs of terrorist Daesh group,” the statement said. The phone call came a day after Abadi formally declared the

liberation of Mosul from IS after nearly nine months of fierce battle to dislodge the extremist militants from their last major stronghold in Iraq.

“I declare to the whole world the end, failure and collapse of Daesh state, the state of IS group terrorism, which they announced it here in Mosul three years ago,” Abadi said in a speech in Mosul.

On Oct. 17, 2016, Abadi announced the start of a major offensive to retake Mosul, the second largest city in Iraq. Mosul, 400 km north of Iraq’s capital Baghdad, came under IS control in June 2014, when government forces abandoned their weapons and fled, enabling IS militants to take control of parts of Iraq’s northern and western regions.—Xinhua

President underscores need for ethical, moral reformation of prisoners ISLAMABAD, 12 JUL (DNA) - President Ma m noon Hu ssai n on Wednesdayunderscored the need for ethical and moral reformation of the prisoners, adding that in this way not only crime rate can be controlled but prisoners can also be made an effective part of the society.

“Therefore, reforms in the system of jail are inevitable in this regard,” he said on the occasion of the presentation of a report prepared by the Prison Reforms Committee u nder the auspices of the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad.

The President noted that, “In the modern world prison reforms have been introduced in the light of Islamic teachings and prisons have been turned into reforms

centers.”

He stated that, “The basic purpose of punishment is to change their mindset through better treatment and training. Being a political worker he himself has experienced imprisonment and has reached the conclusion by personally observing the condition of prisoners that in the present circumstances reformation of prisoners is not possible.”

The President added that, “In jails prisoners are not only subjected to physical punishment but also their self-respect is hurt.

Such acts leave debilitating impact on their psyche which creates among them feelings of revenge not only against their own enemies but also against the whole society.”

The President said, “Such

punishments are of no use which result in the alienation of a certain segment of society from the mainstream and instead of being beneficial it actually becomes counter-productive.”

He also noted that, “The modern concept of incarceration and prisons is that if spiritual and physical health of the prisoners is being affected then such punishment is of no use and in fact it leads to chaos in society which needs to be rectified.”

He stated that, “Zakat can also be used to secure release of prisoners who cannot pay their fines.” He also commended the efforts of the well off segment of society for ameliorating the condition of prisoners and said that such charity will promote goodwill in society.

Federal Ombudsman Salman Faruqui, Head of the Prison Reforms Committee Ejaz Ahmed Qureshi, former Secret a r y I n for mat ion Syed Anwar Mehmood, Chair person of NCHD Se n at or R a z i n a A la m Khan, Chairman Higher Education Com mission Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Vice Cha ncellor of A lla ma Iqbal Open University Dr. Shahid Siddiqui, Executive Director of COMSATS Dr. S M Junaid Zaidi, prominent industrialist Sardar Yasin Malik, Patron in Chief of Pakistan Sweet Homes Zammurd Khan, Managing Director National Book Foundation Dr. Inam ul Haq Javeid and many other prominent social and industrialist personalities attended the event.

DUBAI—The United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt said that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) of fighting terror is “not enough” and the sanction on Qatar still remain, said a joint statement published by UAE news agency WAM. On Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson signed in Doha with his Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani the MoU to stop supporting terrorism. “The four nations value the efforts being made by the

United States to counter terrorism and dry up sources of terror finance,” the statement said.

The Saudi-led bloc which cut diplomatic ties with fellow Qatar on June 5, said they believe “the MoU came as a result of repeated pressures and demands over the past years to stop supporting terrorism.”

However, the quartet stressed that such a step is “not enough” and they will closely monitor the seriousness of Qatar in combating all forms of funding, supporting and fostering of terrorism. “Qatar should

completely and finally stop these activities and implement the list of 13 fair and legitimate demands, in addition to any demands that the four nations may later announce,” the quartet said.

Among the 13 demands by the Arab bloc are the closure of Qatar’s government-controlled TV news channel Al Jazeera, the termination of a Turkish military base in Qatar and the severance of ties with Iran. The statement claimed that “the Qatari authorities have consistently negated all

their agreements and commitments, including the Riyadh Agreement in 2013, which triggered the withdrawal of ambassadors from Doha.”

The ambassadors returned after Qatar signed the supplementary agreement in 2014.

“However, Doha has continued to meddle in the internal affairs of states, and has incited, colluded and harbored terrorists, funded terror operations, and spread messages of hatred and extremism,” said the statement.

The four nations affirmed that the said “measures” will remain in place until the Qatari authorities commit themselves “to fully implement these fair demands, which seek to counter terrorism and realize stability and security in the region.”

The four Arab nations have implemented a sea, land and air embargo against Qatar since June 6 and expelled all Qatari citizens from their countries, with the exception of those being granted an exception due to family relations with nationals on humanitarian reasons.

Belarusian president highlights importance to keep both East, West friendly M I NSK— B el a r u s i a n President Alexander Lukashenko said it was necessary to maintain friendly relations with the East and the West. “It is fundamentally important for Belarus to develop cooperation with the East and West equally, without making a choice between them,” Lukashenko said at a conference on priorities in Belarusian foreign policy. The

Belarusian leader stressed that multi-vector policy was one of the most important priorities of the Belarusian foreign policy.

Lukashenko said that Russia will remain Belarus’ strategic partner. The all-round strategic partnership between Belarus and China is getting practical content as well, he said.

“Constructive progress has been made in Western vector of foreign policy. We have

walked a hard way towards normalizing relations with the European Union. Our cooperation with the United States is progressing steadily,” he added. The active search for new partners and broader contacts with the leading nations on all continents is another vector of foreign policy, Lukashenko said.—Xinhua

Newsletter of Embassy of Pakistan at Muscat showcases bilateral activities

MUSCAT—The newsletter of the Embassy of Pakistan at Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, has showcased the bilateral activities between the two countries. Oman is the home of to Pakistan’s 5th largest com mu nit y

worldwide (currently 271, 143) which remitted US$819 million in financial year 2016, earning first place in per capita terms. The newsletter highlighted the role of the organizations originated from Pakistan including

PIA, Shaheen Air, Air Blue, NESPAK, DESCON, HBL(6 branches), branch each of Beaconhouse and City School and American Lycetuff (10 branches) and Pa k- O m a n I nve st me nt Company and seven community schools. It also showed the acitivities of Pakistan Day celebrations and the country’s engagement with the Omani Government, civil society and media.

The community of Oman is united and celebrates a diverse presence of 3000 and 2000 Pakistanis with Christian and Hindus faiths

respectively. The Embassy of Pakistan constituted a think tank of selected Pakistanis since August 2016, Community Volunteers Group to assist in events, and a Young Achievers Forum to project soft-power. The newsletter also showcased the efforts of both the countries in strengthening bilateral ties, promoting peace and friendship as means to prosperity between the two countries. The Embassy is connected with both the public and private media to create awareness on Pakistan’s relations with Oman.—DNA

Int’l Conference on Refugee Crises: Lessons from Pakistan and Beyond held The International Conference on Refugee Crises: Lessons from Pakistan and Beyond was arranged by the Center of International Peace and Stability in collaboration with Hans Seidel Foundation from July 11-12 at SEECS auditorium, NUST. The Chief Guest, Lt. Gen. Abdul Qadir Baloch (Retired), Minister of SAFRON opened the proceedings to the general audience by providing his deep insight on issue of refugee crises and how it has affected Pakistan.

He also believed that Pakistan has not been given due recognition for its efforts to rehabilitate Afghan refugees. The Rector NUST, in his address highlighted the conference as an effort to explore and highlight the issues central to Pakistan’s experience with refugees. He reiterated that the conference was an endeavor to provide a platform for local and international researchers and experts to share their research and experiences.

In the contemporary milieu,

conflicts have displaced more people than it can manage.

The influx of refugees into Europe has brought to the fore a host of issues related to security, nationalism, and law and order situations.

Policy planners are still struggling to grapple with issues that necessitate the need to redesign international and national policies to manage this humanitarian crisis and mitigate unsavory side effects that are inevitably linked with it. In that regard, Pakistan’s

experience as a country that has hosted millions of Afghan refugees over the years is of great value.

A need was felt to collect and collate this vast and unique knowledge and the empirical data that is lying scattered in the official files; and recording the unique knowledge and skills honed over the years for the betterment of the human civilization and for the sake of the future generations. It is in this context that the conference was arranged.

France to mobilize 11,000 police for Bastille Day ceremony

25 killed due to torrential rains in Japan

Military drills of NATO countries start in Bulgaria

Syrian Observatory confirms killing of IS leader

France will mobilize thousands of servicemen to boost security during Bastille Day ceremony on July 14, the Paris prefecture said. About 11,000 policemen and military police will be deployed in Paris and surrounding areas on the eve of the French national holiday. In addition, 2,000 firefighters will be mobilized for rescue operations, it added. U.S. President Donald Trump will attend the annual Bastille Day military parade.

In Japan, at least twenty five people were killed and more than twenty other went missing due to flooding caused by torrential rains in southern Kyushu area. The severe flood destroyed communication infrastructure and houses whereas hundreds of people also rendered homeless. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, after cancelling his tour to Estonia, visited the southern regions today to view the damages and express solidarity with the flood-hit people.

Nearly twenty five thousand military personnel from twenty two NATO allied and partner countries are participating in The Saber Guardian 17 exercise.

These drills have been considered as one of the largest in the Black Sea region under the leadership of US Army. The multinational drills, which consist of air and ground-based forces, are aimed at increasing joint operational capability of the NATO allies and partner countries.

Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says that it has confirmed information that Islamic State group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi has been killed. This was stated

by Director of the Observatory, Rami Abdulrahman, while talking to a foreign news agency. Russia had claimed in June that al-Baghdadi might have been killed in an air strike by its forces targetting a gathering of IS commanders on the outskirts of Syrian city of Raqqa.

THE DESTINATION

Thursday- July 13, 2017

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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Rana Tahir Shahbaz Source: afz.gov.ae

A

jman Free Zone (AFZ) was established in 1988, leading to massive industrial development in Ajman by attracting a great number of companies to benefit from the investment privileges, thereby strengthening industry and trade and the financial sector in the UAE. AFZ provides competitive privileges and facilities allowing companies to get a considerable return on their investment. AFZ continues to develop its infrastructure, spending millions of Dirhams along its free zone area of more than one million square meters.

Strategic Location

Strategic location advantages:

Air

Easily reach international airports within 25 minutes only by car from AFZ, including communication with world air transportation networks.

Sea

AFZ is located opposite to Ajman Port.

Land

There is a highly equipped international road network connecting AFZ with neighbouring countries, for easy arrival and departure.

Distance from Ajman to Other Emirates Distance Sharjah: 2 km Dubai: 12 km Umm al-Quwain: 21 km Ras al-Khaimah: 70 km Fujairah: 120 km Abu Dhabi: 180 km

Advantages

• 100% ownership of establishment/company • 100% foreign ownership • Easy transfer of capital and profits

• Exemption from personal income tax • Exemption from import and export duties • Exemption from other taxes • Competitive prices on facility usage • Competitive prices for power/electricity • Competitive prices on leasing • Easy access to low cost labour • Well-developed infrastructure • One-stop counter service for effecting transactions (Residency, visas…etc.)

• Fast and easy procedures and in most cases get the license within 24 hours

Ajman

The total area of Ajman, including territorial waters, is 324 km2, and excluding territorial waters is 214 km2. The Ajman coast area in the Arab Gulf region is 8 km. Ajman is formed from three different areas, as per terrain and distance from the Gulf Coast; namely: Ajman city, Masfoot and Manama.

Humidity is higher in summer and the temperature in winter is 25 degrees.

The Islamic values have been known since time immemorial in the UAE heritage, providing strength and inspiration that affect all aspects of daily life.

Founder and Chief 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

Hospitality

United Arab Emirate

Ajman Free Zone

Generosity and hospitality are among the highest virtues in the Arab world and the visitor assured of a friendly welcome and hospitality by the people of the UAE.

Family life

The family is one of the most important institutions in the Arab community. Grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins and relatives, and relationships within these extended families are strong and characterized with respect granted to the elders in the family.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month, in which Muslims

Religious Ceremonies

Eid al-Fitr is the Ramadan and continues for three days. Celebrations start after the Eid prayer in the morning, and gifts are exchanged.

Eid al-Adha is the day of sacrifice, representing the end of Hajj, which lasts four days (Hajj is obligatory for all Muslims at least once in their lifetime).

Traditional Sports

Falconry is among the traditional sports which are still practiced in Ajman, displaying the unique partnership between humans and birds.

It is 110 km far from the south-east, and its area is 46 km2, consisting of Mazera with agricultural activity, fertile land, wide valleys and a good climate. This makes it attractive for tourists because of its nature and mountains, such as “Daftta”, “Leeshen” and “the white” mountain which are all truly magical mountainous regions. In addition, Masfoot is famous for its wide valleys such as “Gulfa”, “Al Sawamer”, “Masfout”, “Al Khanfareyah” and “Al Defda’a”.

Manama

Al Manama region is located about 73 km to the east of Ajman. The road through Sharjah and Fujairah passes opposite it. Al Manamah includes a gravel and sand valley, across high mountains rich with natural minerals and building stones. It is also famous for its fertile valleys and plentiful crop.

sides.“Sanctions are necessary, but sanctions only cannot solve the problem. The impact of sanctions would be maximized only when it is combined with more robust efforts for the resumption of negotiations,” said Cui. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson had in the past months repeatedly claimed that “the policy of strategic patience has ended.”

“We hope it will lead to proactive actions on the diplomatic front, not strategic impatience

instead,” said Cui. “There are now calls for military actions. China’s position on this is firm and clear.

We would never allow war or chaos breaking out on the Korean peninsula. The cost would be too high for anyone, including the U.S.,” he added. Stressing that China is committed to a denuclearized Korean Peninsula and no one should deny China’s persistent efforts toward that goal, Cui dismissed some media reports as “distorted” which indicated that trade between China and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) increased in the first quarter of this year.

“In fact, trade between China and the DPR K has been declining in 2015 and 2016.

In February this year, China suspended coal import from the DPRK. As a result import from DPRK has dropped 41 percent in April and 32 percent in May year-on-year,” said Cui, adding that UN Security Council sanctions against the DPRK do not constitute an embargo.—Xinua

Kashmir freedom struggle cannot be equated with terrorism: OIC

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has condemned state terrorism in the Indian Occupied Kashmir and called upon India to implement the UN Security Council resolutions to resolve the Kashmir dispute. This condemnation came during 44th session

of OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held in Cote d’Ivoire. The Council also called upon the United Nations and the International Community to play their due role in stopping the continuing bloodshed in the Indian Occupied Kashmir. The resolution, adopted

Monsoon rains intermittently lashing parts of country

Iran hits back at “meddlesome” remarks of U.S. official TEHRAN— Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan dismissed the recent anti-Iran remarks made by his U.S. counterpart, describing them as “meddlesome”, Press TV reported.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Monday that the United States and Iran can have positive relations only after regime change in Iran. Such remarks deviate from all the principles of the international law, Dehqan

practice their religious rites. Its time differs every year compared to the calendar year.

Ramadan is the month in which Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from Fajr time to Maghreb time, and during that time visitors are expected to abstain from eating/ drinking in public places.

Masfoot

Diplomatic negotiation only way out for Korean Peninsula nuclear issue: Chinese ambassador to US

WASHINGTON— Diplomatic negotiation is the only way out for the Korean Peninsula n u cle a r i s s u e , C h i n e s e Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said here this week. Speaking at the 7th U.S.-China Civil Strategic Dialogue on Monday, Cui said the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue is in essence an issue of security and the key to escape the “security dilemma” is to start with addressing legitimate security concerns of all

Lifestyle Culture

said, adding that “such delirious comments are made by an ill person.”

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi on Tuesday also criticized Mattis’ remarks, calling them as “thoughtless and unfounded”. Mattis has repeated accused Iran of supporting terrorism while “the U.S. establishment and its current defense secretary, himself, are the symbols of terrorism and violation of human rights,” Qasemi added.

Qatar to continue funding for reconstruction projects in Gaza enclave

Qatar pledged one billion dollars to reconstruct Gaza after the 2014 war with Israel. Qatar has reassured its commitment to continue funding for reconstruction projects in Gaza enclave. The assurance was given by Qatar’s envoy to Gaza Mohammed al-Amadi at a news conference in Gaza City alongside UN envoy for the Middle East, Nickolay Mladenov. Qatar pledged one billion dollars to reconstruct Gaza after the 2014 war with Israel, which is the largest single pledge.

Russia warns US of retaliation over Obama-era expulsions

The warning came from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Moscow has warned to take retaliatory measures against the United States if it fails to solve the issue of expulsion of thirty five Russian diplomats and seizure of its two diplomatic compounds last year. The warning came from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov while addressing a press conference with EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini in Brussels.

US to sell Patriot Air Defense System to Romania

Met Office spokesperson says the current monsoon spell will continue till Sunday. Monsoon rains are intermittently lashing different parts of the country including Islamabad, Upper Punjab, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir. A spokesperson of Met Office told our correspondent that the highest rainfall of 138mm has been recorded in Gujrat followed by 113mm in Sialkot. He said that 78mm rain was recorded in Rawalpindi and 61mm in Islamabad. The heavy downpours have inundated roads and low lying areas in Rawalpindi. The spokesperson said that the current monsoon spell will continue till Sunday.

unanimously by the 56 member Council, noted that Jammu and Kashmir remains the core dispute between India and Pakistan, and its early resolution is imperative for bringing peace to South Asia.

The Council expressed its support to the widespread indigenous movement of the people of Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir for their promised right to self-determination and observed that the just struggle of Kashmiris cannot be equated with terrorism. It deplored the continued use of live ammunition and pellet guns by Indian forces causing mass blinding and killings of innocent Kashmiris.

The Foreign Ministers condemned India for illegal detention of Kashmiris and incarceration of Hurriyet leaders. They paid rich tributes to the Kashmiris for the heroic struggle for the realization of their inalienable right to self-determination. They also noted with deep concern the Indian attempts to bring demographic changes in Indian occupied Kashmir in violation of its obligations under UN resolutions and international law.

Britain to boost its space sector with new testing facilities LONDON— Britain will step up its space sector development by investing in new facilities for satellite and space propulsion, according to a government statement released.

Some 99 million pounds will be invested to create the National Satellite Testing Facility (NSTF) on the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, alongside a 4 million-pound investment for the new National Space Propulsion Facility to develop and test space engines at Wescott Venture Park in Buckinghamshire. Due to open in early 2020, the new NSTF will be a world-class facility for the assembly, integration and testing of space instruments and satellites, positioning Britain to capitalize on the estimated 3,500 to 10,000 satellites that are due to be

launched by 2025, according to the government.

It will also facilitate the build of bigger and more technologically advanced satellites and remove the need for British companies to use test facilities abroad. As for the NSPF, it will allow companies and academia to test and develop space propulsion engines, alongside a new facility for Reaction Engines where the revolutionary SABRE airbreathing rocket engine will also be tested and built.

“Located in a cluster known for research excellence, these new facilities will help UK companies be more competitive in the global market for space technology and support our ambition to capture 10 percent of the global space market by 2030,”

China opening a naval base in Djibouti

Ships carrying Chinese military personnel to the base have left for Djibouti to begin setting up the facility. China is opening a naval base in Djibouti to ensure performance of its missions, such as escorting, peace-keeping and humanitarian aid in Africa and west Asia. Xinhua news agency reports that ships carrying Chinese military personnel to the base have left for Djibouti to begin setting up the facility.

Diplomats of US, Russia to meet in Washington next week

Their aim is to resolve disputes between two countries. Senior diplomats from the United States and Russia will meet in Washington next week to consider a number of disputes between the two countries.The US State Department spokeswoman said Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov will visit Washington on 17th of this month to discuss wide ranging issues with the US officials.

Afghan president calls on Taliban to join peace process

US State Department has announced to sell Patriot Air Defense System and related support and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has again called upon Taliban to give up fighting and join the peace equipment to Romania. Romania is a NATO partner with important geo-strategic access to the process. Addressing a press conference in Kabul, he said the time is running out and Taliban will lose Black Sea, where Russia-seized Crimea is located. Meanwhile, the United States has postponed the chance for talks. Ashraf Ghani expressed hope that talks of Quadrilateral Coordination Group, for three months a decision on whether to permanently lift certain sanctions on Sudan over its which includes Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the US, will resume soon to yield the desired results. human rights record and other issues.

Published by Rana Tahir Shahbaz from Office # 2 , First Floor, Abbasi Plaza , Bani Gala Islamabad (ph: 051-8314196, fax: 051-8315196) & Printed at Roohani Art Press Islamabad

THE DESTINATION

4 Thursday- July 13, 2017

FWO to complete both mega projects M-9 motorway, KTDC before time

KARACHI—Frontier Works Organization (FWO) has announced early completion of both mega projects K a r ach i-Hyder aba d M-9 Motorway and Karachi-Thatta Dual Carriageway (KTDCW) on 14th August, 2017. This was disclosed by new Chief Operating Officer Brigadier Muhammed Waseem Baber, during briefing to media persons here at Eid Milan gathering. Brigadier Muhammed Waseem Baber of FWO committed timely completion of both mega projects as per directions of Director General Lieutenant General Muhammed Afzal and the interest of Sindh Government he told.

He said 24 hours heavy vehicular traffic on roads, the smooth work continued on mega projects of KTDCW and M-9 Motorway according to its standard and quality of development work about 80 percent

completed. Hence, we are going to complete remaining portions of the project before time, to expedite work by deployment of more units and technical manpower for early completion of mega projects, it was announced till 2018.

Brigadier said that FWO has achieved its landmark in different national technical projects within stipulated time and quality work, in this connection Prime Minister, Chief Minister and Governor have also recognized the organization for its commitment and standard early completion of work. According to FWO Projects chief FWO would completely installs CCTV cameras at 136 KM Khi-Hyd M-9 motorway and monitoring system to better monitor activities of the vehicular traffic and established state of the art Trauma Center and Schools for the communities too under its Corporate Social

NAIROBI (Xinhua)—Chinese t e ch g ia nt Hu awei s a id Tuesday it has partnered with British money transfer service operator WorldRemit to enable African expatriates to send money home to millions of subscribers of Huawei’s mobile money service platform across Africa. The deal will enable Huawei to add a ready-made solution for remittances -- a growing mobile money product offering -- to its existing suite of services.

“International remittance is a very important mobile money service in Africa, and our partnership with WorldRemit will bring international remittances directly to Huawei’s customers across the continent,” David Chen, VP of Huawei Southern Africa said in a statement.

“Huawei is committed to providing advanced mobile money platforms and technologies to

global mobile money operators,” Chen said. By enabling WorldRemit to connect to over 100 million mobile accounts currently using Huawei’s platform, the deal is said to improve access to mobile money remittance for millions of people.

WorldRemit is the first international remittance company to partner directly with Huawei. The deal is expected

Responsibility Waseem said.

Whereas, a massive tree plantation has been started both sides of Karachi-Hyderabad M-9 project around 160 million different kinds of trees and plants to be completed for better environment and greenery around by 14th August 2017.

Talking to this scribe officials of Frontier Works Organization has disclosed that exclusively the organization is a pioneer in BOT services introduced in Pakistan purpose to reduce the burden on the public sector for development of large size infrastructural projects. FWO suggested federal government to establish oil pipeline infrastructure to up country due to different oil tankers’ incidents within month and heavy vehicle pressure on highways leads to human lives tragedy.

So that FWO is constructing dams and other China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) level projects etc. by its quality and standard maintenance. There is need to connect such a pipeline as well rail road link to all provinces and reduce heavy load of oil tankers, trucks throughout country roads for businesses development.

China’s Huawei partners to launch mobile money service in Africa

to accelerate WorldRemit’s technical integrations with new mobile money operators. Technical integration is frequently a barrier to offering international remittances for mobile network operators.

The technology works on both smartphones and basic handsets, so it is expected to be particularly successful in developing markets.

Star Alliance Los Angeles Lounge voted best Alliance Lounge at Skytrax World Airline awards LOS ANGELES, USA —The Star Alliance Lounge located at Tom Bradley International Ter minal (TBIT) at Los Angeles Airport was voted best Alliance Lounge at the Skytrax World Airline Awards for the third year in a row. Presenting the award to the lounge team Christian D raeger, Vice President Customer Experience Star Alliance, said: “We could have not received a better present for our Alliance’s 20th Anniversary. Getting this accolade three years in a row is testament to the fact that we have a fantastic team operating and managing our LA Lounge.

The lounge opened nearly four years ago and customer

feedback continues to be positive, underlining the fact that we are offering a very high quality experience on a consistent basis.” Member carrier Air New Zealand developed the Alliance’s LAX lounge and manages the facility on behalf of Star Alliance.

Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience Anita Hawthorne commented: “It’s fantastic to have the Star Alliance Los Angeles Lounge recognized once again at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Our team works hard to deliver a world-class experience to Star Alliance customers using the lounge each and every day and it’s great to have their efforts recognized.” The

premium customer facility at LAX can accommodate up to 400 Business Class and Star Alliance Gold passengers and has an additional exclusive area for First Class passengers.

Designed by global architectural firm Gensler, the 1,675 square meter lounge features different experience zones to accommodate the various passenger needs, ranging from social gatherings to quiet time away from home. The lounge offers a bar area for socializing, a library space, a den, a study and a media room.

Guests wishing to work can do so from the location of their choice, making use of the highspeed wi-fi, along with the printing, fax and copy services

Pakistan agrees to provide 25,000 MT rice to Sri lanka

ISLAMABAD—Pakistan has agreed to initially providing 25,000 matric ton non basmati rice to Sri Lanka on urgent basis, that would be procured on government to government basis. A delegation of Sri Lanka arrived here on Monday (July 10) to negotiate with the Pakistani team to finalize the issue of exporting 300,000 tons rice to Sri Lanka. A high level Sri Lankan delegation led by Secretary Ministry of Commerce and industry, Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti started bilateral negotiations for reaching the final agreements to export non-basmati rice to Sri Lanka, Senior official of ministry of commerce said Tuesday. A meeting in this regard held here in ministry of Commerce headed

by Secret a r y Com merce Younas Dhaga in which the two side also discussed about signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Trade Corporation of Pakistan and Cooperative Wholesale E s t a bl i sh me nt (C W E) of

Sr i L a n k a for s u l ly i ng commodities.

The Chairman TCP, Mushtaq Ahmed Sheikh and representatives of local rice association also participated in negotiation. He said that domestic production of rice in Sri Lanka was low and they are willing to import non Basmati rice from Pakistan. It may be mentioned here that Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was operational from 2005. He said under the FTA, both of the country have already agreed to offer preferential market access to each others’ exports by way of granting tariff concessions.

Additionally, he said according to FTA, Sri Lanka would be able to enjoy duty free market access on 206 products in the Pakistani market including tea, rubber and coconut. Pakistan, in return, would gain duty free access on 102 products in the Sri Lankan market, including oranges, basmati/non basmati rice and engineering goods.

Sindh CM orders foolproof security of Chinese working on CPEC projects KARACHI—Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has directed police department to provide adequate security to the Chinese working on CPEC related projects and install jammers in their vehicles when they travel from one are to another. This he said while presiding over a meeting on Chinese security working on CPEC and non-CPEC projects in the province. The meeting was attended by Consul General of China in Karachi, Home Secretary Qazi Shahid Parvez, Principal Secretary to CM Sohail Rajput, Additional IG Karachi Mushtaq Maher, DIGs of Sukkur, RRF & SPU, Shams Shaikh CEO of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company and others. The Chief Minister said that there are over all nine CPEC projects in Sindh, of them work on seven projects is in progress where 3044 Chinese are working. These projects and their workforce, particularly Chinese is very important for the development of the country in general and Sindh in particular. They should have foolproof security as was decided at the start of the CPEC projects.

Home Secretary Qazi Shahid Parvez briefing the chief minister said that seven security headquarters of each project with a 3044 well trained police force have been deployed there for the security of Chinese.

He added that Pakistan Army leads their security apparatus.

He added that the eighth project of NTDC Transmission line from Matirai to Lahore has been launched where 15 Chinese are engaged. “We have provided them a security force of 65 personnel,” he said.

The chief minister said according to the data available with some 137 non-CEPEC projects are going on in the province

where 1971 Chinese are working. “What arrangement have you made for their security, he asked the home secretary. The home secretary said that 1373 personnel have been deployed on their security.

Ad d it io n a l IG K a r a ch i Mushtaq Maher said that with the approval of the Chief Minister Sindh police have raised a Special Protection Unit (SPU) to maintain an effective security response and to avert any threat to Chinese nationals working on CPEC projects. He added that the total sanctioned strength of SPU is 2662 against which 1349 are working while 1313 posts are vacant for which recruitment process was in progress. DIG RRF & SPU Amin Yousifzai said that nine projects have been expanded to 11 which include a coalbased power plant at Karachi, open pit mining power plant at Thar Block-II and Coalbased power plant Block-I, for wind power projects at Thatta District, Motorway f rom Ghotki to Su k k u r, NTDC Transmission Lines from Matiari to Faisalabad and Matirai to Lahore and railway line from Karachi to Peshawar.

Talking about the security arrangements he said that the coal-based power Plant at Port Qasim have been provided a force of 563 personnel which include 30 army men, 193 SPU, 149 Ranbgers, 17 FC, 17 policemen and 157 private guards. Similarly, Thar project of Block-II has been given security of 413 personnel while 46 personnel have been deployed on Thar power project Block-I. He added that for the security of four wind power projects in Thatta district a force of 555 personnel have been deployed.

The DIG said that for 126 km

long NDTC transmission line from Sukkur to Ghotki a force 1197 personnel have bene deployed. For the transmission line from Matirai to Lahore/ Faisalabad a force of 76 personnel have been deployed for the security of Chinese. The 548 km railway line being laid from Karachi to Peshawar have been given a force of 75 personnel (for Sindh section).

The Chief Minister on the recommendation of SindhEngro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) directed his principal secretary Sohail Rajput to coordinate with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for completing Islamkot airport on war footing. “I want the Chinese should travel by air,” he said and added that during his recent visit to Thar he had landed at Islamkot runway.

The runway strip is ok but other facilities like installation of light on along the runway, installation of tower, completion of the building and developing communication system are yet to be completed for which he issued directives for CAA to complete it shortly. The chief minister said that CPEC is the life line of national economy, therefore the projects launched under it must be given ownership by each and every individual living in the province. There are some unscrupulous who are against the development are creating some problems but they would never succeed, he said. DNA

China plans world-leading bay area covering Guangdong, HK, Macao BEIJING— A draft plan to turn the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao greater bay area into the world’s largest bay area in terms of GDP by 2030 has been filed with the national economic planner, according to an official. The plan for the development of a city cluster in the greater bay area, covering the majority of China’s Cantonese-speaking regions, was forwarded to the National Development and Reform Commission at the end of June, said Wu Weibao, deputy head of Guangdong’s development and reform commission. “Compiled by the provincial development and refor m com mission and national think tanks, including the China Center for International Economic Exchanges (CCIEE), the plan sets the targets, development directions and major tasks for the area,” Wu said.

The greater bay area will cove r Hong Kong a nd Macao special administrative regions, and nine cities in Guangdong Province including the first-tier cities of Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

“By 2020, the GuangdongHong Kong-Macao greater

bay area is planned to become one of the world’s top-level bay areas and form the basic framework for a world-class city cluster,” said Zhang Xiaoqiang, CCIEE executive deputy head. By 2030, the area is expected to have the highest GDP among all bay areas worldwide, and become an advanced manufacturing center, as well as an important global hub of innovation, finance, shipping and trade, he added.

“The area will see substantial improvement in its strength in global cooperation and competition, and ascend to the front of world-renowned city clusters by 2030,” Zhang said. The combined regional GDP of the greater bay area stood at 9.35 trillion yuan (1.38 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2016, compared with the GDP of the Chinese mainland at 74.41 trillion yuan last year. Estimates show the regional GDP of the greater bay area will reach 4.62 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030, surpassing Tokyo, New York and San Francisco bay areas to become the world No. 1, Zhang said.

The plan includes major

i nf rast r uct u re projects, important development platforms, and major economic and trade cooperation that will have impacts beyond the area, he added. The idea of creating a bay area was raised as early as 2009 in a research report for coordinated development of the city cluster in the greater Pearl River Delta region, jointly released by local governments of the three regions. In 2015, building the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao greater bay area

was included in a report on vision and actions to jointly build the Belt and Road Initiative.

The area’s development entered a fast track this year after the annual government work report made it clear that China will draw up a plan for the greater bay area. “[The country will] give full play to the distinctive strengths of Hong Kong and Macao and elevate their positions and roles in China’s economic

development and opening up,” the report said.

A framework agreement on the development of the greater bay area was signed by central and local officials on July 1, the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland. Under the agreement, Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao will improve collaboration mechanisms and facilitate winwin cooperation to build a world-class bay area and city cluster.—Xinhua

CDNS achieves target of Rs 230bn set for 2016-17

SCCI president wants Special Economic Zone in Sialkot

Tea imports increase 3.19 percent in 11 months

Deep-Sea corals produce their own sunlight

CDNS has achieved the revised target of Rs 230 billion set for the financial year 2016-17 by June 30, this year. The CDNS has set Rs 220 billion target for fiscal year 2017-18, a senior official of CDNS told. He said the CDNS had notified similar profit rates for various saving certificates to benefit its investors especially the widow and pensioners, which had been unchanged from June 1, 2017.

“The consistency in previous rates was made in the backdrop of current market scenario and in accordance with the government’s policy to provide market based competitive rate of return to the investors of National Savings”, he said.

President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Majid Raza Bhutta suggested that Sialkot Export Processing Zone (SEPZ) should be given the status of Special Economic Zone under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for further accelerating export activities at golden triangle comprising Sialkot, Gujranwala and Gujrat. He suggested that the government should identify high priority sectors for export and ensure concessions and incentives to encourage export of respective sectors. It is very unfortunate that very few industrial units were functioning at the Sialkot Export Processing Zone which was established long ago.

The team imports into the country witnessed increase of 3.19 percent during the first eleven months of the fiscal year 2016-17 compared to the imports of the same period of last year. The overall tea imports into the country during July-May (2016-17) were recorded at $491 million compared to the imports of $475.821 million recorded during July-May (2015-16), according to official data of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). In terms of quantity, the tea imports into the country increased by 17.65 percent, as it increased from the imports of 159,003 metric tons last year to 187,070 metric tons during the period under review.

According to the study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, in order to get more sunlight, the deep-sea corals glow. Their proteins immerse the meager light and shine it out as red-orange light that in turn infiltrates deep inside their tissues where the algae lives. Hence, there’s adequate light for the process of photosynthesis to take place so that the algae can produce food and energy for the coral in return of supplying more than 90% of coral’s nutrients, stated The New York Times. These corals are found deep up to 165 meters down and the sunlight reaches up to almost 200 meters.